Good EAts: dr. pepper

Classic- 5 stars

The Classic Dr. Pepper is just the timeless flavor profile we all know and love. There’s not much to say. It’s perfected, it’s loveable, what’s not to like?

Diet- 4.5 stars

Essentially, the Diet Dr. Pepper tasted exactly the same as the Classic Dr. Pepper. You could definitely tell the flavor was less intense, which most of the crew found as a negative.* All in all, this soda is a good, healthier, alternative to the regular soda as it tastes nearly the same.

* Javier: If you're not a big fan of the original's strong after taste, the less intense flavor of the Diet is definitely a plus. It preserves the original flavor whilst toning it down for the sensitive tongue. 5/5 👍

Zero Sugar Cherry- 3.5 stars

This was basically the same as Zero Sugar in terms of blandness; however, that strong cherry came through and gave it that little flavor boost it needed. It was enjoyable, and we would probably drink it if it was the only drink left on Earth.

Cherry- 3 stars

I don’t know if you can even call this Dr. Pepper, but it was good nonetheless. The cherry was very prevalent, but we really weren’t tasting the beloved flavor of Dr. Pepper. It was more like carbonated, sugared cherry juice. 

Zero Sugar- 3 stars

On first taste, you would think it was yet another good, healthy alternative to the Classic Dr. Pepper; however, once the aftertaste hits you, you realize that is not the case. It’s hard to describe exactly what the Dr. Pepper leaves your mouth tasting like, but trust us, it’s not good. Additionally, after drinking for a while, compared to the Classic Dr. pepper, the soul seems to be sucked out of this drink. It’s bland, there’s not as much flavor, and on top of this, it has that weird aftertaste. Despite this, people who are looking for a healthier alternative should definitely pick this up, as I’m sure they could come to love this flavor.*

F

* Julia: Personally, I don’t mind the taste of the Zero Sugar, especially in a cup full of ice. It also makes me feel better knowing that I *might* not die of heart disease in my thirties. 4/5 💗

Strawberries & Cream- 2 stars

This drink was reminiscent of pedialyte, gogurt, and most notably, the infamous Danimals strawberry yogurt drink. It wasn’t necessarily bad, but it wasn’t good.* If strawberry yogurt is your thing, you will like this drink; however, we felt like that childhood flavor tasted odd combined with the carbonation. 

*Evelyn: If you really like strawberries, this drink is very much worth buying. It tastes sweet, even though it kinda doesn’t have the taste of the Dr pepper, but still very good. 5/5 🍓

Cream Soda- 1.5 star

Creme soda sounds delicious. It’s vanilla, it’s sweet, it’s delicious. But not this soda. We were severely disappointed with the taste we were met with on that first sip. The vanilla was there, but, combined with the carbonation, it had a weird, bitter aftertaste. Creme soda lovers, do not buy this drink.

Blackberry- 1 stars*

I don’t even know what to say. It smelled weird, tasted like medicine, and was almost…sour. This is the scum of the Earth. This made us feel sad. This drink left our frowns facing down. We would like to formally UNSUGGEST ever picking this drink up off the shelf. BEWARE!!!

* Javier: Who made this…and why?? This drink made me lose vision 0/5 😢  

Thespian: Duck's let loose!

Thespian Ducks are wild!

As the fall sets sail and winter creeps in, The Panther Theater actors are freed from long rehearsals and lock in on their Upcoming Mid-terms. As most finally have time for some amazing after school napping..others are up to interesting adventures.

Prior to leaving for the Thanksgiving Break, just a week after closing the fall musical, Three Actors were able to attend the Texas Thespian Festival. Held at the Grapevine, Gaylord hotel at the end of November, every year since 1977. It’s an event that hosts all High School Theater’s, where participants are able to compete against each other, attend workshops and see other school performances. Split between a Four day period, starting Wednesday and ending Saturday. Visitors often stay in the Hotel or neighboring locations to commute back and forth during the Festival.

The Experience is often costly, as so, it wasn’t until this year that the Hillcrest Troupe was able to attend. The Three Chosen Student Actors: Emma Jett, Henry McKibben and Javier Murillo were a test to see how a future and bigger trip to Thespian would look like. 

They attended a shorter period of the festival, between Thursday and Friday. Initially it was a rough start, the first workshops were at 8AM which meant waking up and arriving at the festival would have to be done prior.
“Dude yea…I had to wake up at 5 freaking am just to get you (Javier),”  Emma Jet said.
With the complexity of a massive building such as the Gaylord, it was a lot of getting lost and looking confused when passing by the same gift shop four times.  
"Then Emma couldn’t find where mustang was, and Javier brought us to the other side,” Henry Mckibben said. 

Once that mess was dealt with, they were able to attend the first workshop of the day. Workshopping was the highlight of the event, they were back-to-back with 15-minute intervals “transition” times between each one. Varying from different topics, such as assemble teamwork, audition tips, and crafts work.
 "[My favorite was] Definitely the knife stabbing stunt workshop,” Henry McKibben said.

  Between workshops, there was other smaller events going on throughout the day, like a gift shop full of Wooden toys, stuffed animals and hand puppets.

“We found this stupid hand puppet, chicken thing and it really made Javier mad,” Henry said. 

Stage shows thrown at the Convention center, were performed by other High schools. The group would recall their favorite moment was the rush of hundreds of kids running to get a front row seat for Plano West “SIX: Musical.”

“Had to run for our lives,” Emma Jett said.

Activities weren't the only pinnacle of the festival. The long-awaited trip also came with a long-awaited reunion with an old friend. Former Panther Theater member Zoe Orellana. She had moved to Princeton High School over the summer. Luckily, her troupe regularly attends the event, so they were able to meet up with her. 

    They’re miscellaneous adventure was cut short Friday afternoon, though the festival went into Saturday morning. They re-count being sad to leave Zoe but very relieved to be able to go back home.  A full day of running around between workshops and eating horrible conventional food was enough for the trio.

“Being able to be around all my friends, and doing cool theater workshops, especially seeing the show [was my favorite],” Emma Jett said.

While the workshop was enjoyable sometimes nothing compares to running into old friends.

“ZOE!! I Loved seeing Zoe. If it wasn’t for her, I'd probably would have gotten tired of the workshops earlier,” Henry McKibben said.

VETERANS parade 

This year's Veteran’s Parade took place on Tuesday, November 11th. It's a special opportunity to honor the end of World War 1 and the veterans that served and continue to serve our country.

With that being said, the parade was held at Fair Park with a featured participation of  the Hillcrest High School Band and JROTC, who proudly represented the school and community.

The parade started at approximately 11 a.m. going all around the fair park. Many family and friends joined together in showing appreciation to the men and women who dedicated their lives fighting for America. Hillcrest high school was honored to represent the community in this meaningful event. 

Veterans Day marks the anniversary of the end of World War 1 on November 11th, 1918. Each year, Americans come together to celebrate the courage and sacrifice of our nation’s veterans. Events like these remind us how important their dedication was while protecting our freedom.  

Featured clubs this month

Dallas comes alive for Dia de los muertos

You Can Dance! You can Jive!

You Can Dance! You Can Jive!

Surprise Surprise!

         The Panther Theater Company has officially ended its Fall Term, along with its yearly musical, the long-anticipated production of: “MAMMA MIA” headed by Director Ursula Hollingsworth and Tech Director Abigail Guerra

    The production was listed for a Three Day Show run between Nov. 13 and Nov. 15, with shows starting at 7PM during the weekday and ending at 2PM on the weekend. Audience members had the chance to watch the production within the schools amazing auditorium, accompanied by yummy snacks and fun glow-up light sticks sold at the front doors. 

It has become the programs most successful show in the last two years, which could be seen by the massive attention brought by the student body to attend and watch. One of these students was 2026 senior Hailey Morales who attended the Thursday (Understudy run) opening night of the production with her girlfriend.
"Well I went to my house after school, and at first I wasn't sure if I'd go, but I'm a feign for ABBA, and I wanted to see how they threw it,” Hailey Morales said.

When asked about the production, she commented on how the it was better than she had originally imagined. Complimenting on the Cast's singing, to her, the music did justice to the original tracks from ABBA. Each song didn't fail to capture her attention and get her moving. Each musical and dance number was an amazing, thrilling feat that moved out from the stage and onto the audience members. 

The jitters were real that night.

”I like the music a lot. It was kind of cool how they did the dancing and all the singing was good too,"  Hailey Morales said.

       She loved the musical but her absolute favorite part were the bows at the end of the show. The cast members took turns after an overturn of "Dancing Queen" to have their individual moments on stage. Afterwards while dancing to Waterloo, the cast members took to the ground and let the audience members dance with them, bringing the play to the people.

"The way the actors interacted with everyone in the audience was amazing, coming down and dancing with everyone,” Heiley Morales said.

      It has been safe to say that the impact these Dancing Queens (and Kings) left within Hillcrest was immense joy. Though most seniors are tending to their worrying College app deadlines, the production let them take a rest of that worry for an evening. 

Once again the Panther Theater Program continues on its almost decade- long mission of bringing creativity, Fine arts and joy to the Hillcrest Community.

      Spooky wookie 

Halloween Concert 

At the dawn of Hallows-eve, a crashing and smashing band by the name of Medda Larking lit up all the lunches at Hillcrest High School. Led by band leader, Matthew Quinteno, the band consists of Adler (lead guitar) , Kailtyn Patterson (drummer) and Matthew Harvey (lead singer). They are a convoluted chemical mixture of talented flavors across the board, each member unique as the other. 

Medda Larking was founded earlier this year in mid-summer, before the start of the school year. Matthew Quinteno had dreamt of a school concert that would leave an impression on the community. He attempted a concert similar to this a few months back during winter; however poor planning and a cloudy day led to a pretty upsetting concert.
      “I mean it was my first time so…we weren't that ready yet. It was fun though,” Matteo Quinteno said.

     Determined to imprint rock within Panther Pride, he set down to create a show that no one will ever be able to forget. He took in Adler, Lead Guitarist, as his second in command for a new and unnamed band. 

    Their crew grew a bit bigger when they nagged on Kaitlyn Patterson as their drummer. Originally, the band consisted of those three founding members, with the lead singer switching out here and there as nobody stuck to the position. Eventually, they landed between Karla and Matthew Harvey. Finally, the pie was whole, and rehearsals stuck to late-night practices in the Orchestra room. It had been generously given to them for temporary use by the Orchestra director, an avid fan of their band and supporter of spreading music throughout the halls of Hillcrest. The Date was set for the 31st of October, perfectly landing on a Friday when the student body is ready to unwind for Halloween, when the souls of rock stars could empower this amazing student band. 

Disaster hit the group with a last-minute update, when their singers, aforementioned Karla, had to call out. The band was left without a powerful voice.

    “[I] almost vomited two times,” Matteo Quinteno said.

     As performers though, they understood they had to go on, and the mantle was handed over to Matthew Harvey. On the day of the event, the set was an upgrade to last year's performance. The band was generously given mics, massive speakers and a convoluted mess of wires that went along it. The plan was to perform all lunches in the courtyard. This time around the weather was kind to them, clear skies with no sight of clouds. The perfect hallows-day. 

At the start of A Lunch, a crowd had already formed around the band. Crowd members of all grades gathered around the band by the benches, lined up against the wall and on the floor just to catch an eye of this performance. Crowd go-ers were dressed up in their Halloween costumes, adding to the Halloween theme concert. A group of friends dressed as south park characters, a fanciable cat, and even big bird himself made a guest appearance. It was safe to say that the crowd was alive and ready, and not disappointed once as their cheers and screams blasted louder than the music itself during each performance. Never once did the crowd seem to waiver in size, as lunch ended and another started, it only seemed to grow bigger. 

Popular songs part of the Setlist included: Scream, Thriller, Creep and many other cult classics. It added to the fire within the crowd. Many knew the songs by heart and sang along. The audience themselves became an outlet of the band, backup singers themselves harmonizing with the music. The concert ended with a performance of “Creep” by Radiohead, wrapping up by the nick of time as the bell for the final lunch pierced the air. 

At the end, the band took a last picture together.
“Surprisingly, I had a lot of fun. I might do it again. They were talking about a Christmas show next, so maybe,” - Kaitlyn Patterson said.

Battle of the bands 

     Every year there's a specific day where the band goes out and competes with other schools. While they compete, they are trying their absolute best to get a rating from 1-5 with all the practices they have been doing with one being the best place. 

     “We have won the battle of the bands 1st place for two years in a row,” junior Axel Hernandez said.

     This year there are two battles of the bands. The first one is after the homecoming game which is the 27th of September, and the second one is on October 4th. The band has been practicing each day after school to improve and get a good rating from the judges. 

They practice regularly to get better and beat all their competition and be able to aim for a great rating. 

     “I feel like I will do good in marching but mess up a bit in the music because I'm not that good,” freshman Yamilet Jimenez said. 

     They practice a lot to be able to perform great and be able to hopefully place 1st place again for the 3rd time in a row. With the upcoming competition right around the corner, the band is always out there practicing, making sure they don't mess up.

     “We did surprisingly well for what we did as well as the amount of time," senior Amani Agee said.

     Even though the band played amazing and tried their absolute best, they didn't win the first competition. Even though they came in late including a few mess ups, they did amazing overall.  

   “I expect them to miss a few notes (and a few steps) in the beginning, but the more they practice the better they will get,” band director Mr. Sharlow said.

Introducing: Prose and Poetry Club

Coach Jenkins founds a new Prose and Poetry Club, beginning in September, to challenge students to step out of their comfort zone by performing poetry. 

“I wanted to go above and beyond this year as a teacher and try to reach as many kids as I possibly can,” said Jenkins, the founder and coach of the team.

The club will be meeting every Monday after school in room ___ to practice performing as Jenkins would like to participate in UIL in the spring. In the competition, students will prepare a performance of a work of poetry belonging to a certain theme, such as joy or peace. After the student interprets their chosen poem, they practice their performance and arrive prepared on competition day. 

“I want to make it to state for UIL. To go as far as possible,” Jenkins said.

Currently, the team is made up of a small number of students, but Jenkin’s goal is to grow the team into a large powerhouse of motivated competitors. Interested students should contact Coach Jenkins in room 129. All you need is yourself!

“My goal is to make an impact and encourage students to try new things,” Jenkins said.

DRAMA CLUB

Fall activities

Fall is here and its the perfect season to make memories! With the weather cooling down and the leaves starting to change, fall is the perfect season for Hillcrest students to enjoy time with friends and family.

Back to school Snacks: Trader Joe’s Edition 

Back to school can be very stressful whether it's shopping for new supplies or new clothes. One of the more fun aspects of back to school is the snack part of it- Trader Joes is a well known grocery store loved for its fun and healthy snacks. The company uses quirky flavors and fun packaging to appeal to their consumers. We made sure to try a few popular back to school snacks and here’s the breakdown. 

Senior Sunrise 

The crisp August air, the sounds of birds chirping in the morning, the feeling that senior year is actually here. As kids, students dream about how amazing their senior year is going to be. Then, the morning of Senior Sunrise, it all feels real and suddenly the realization that they’re actually growing up feels real.  

Senior Ausley Albert says, “It felt weird…weird and exciting, like what do you mean I'm a senior?” senior Ausley Albert said.

At around 5:30 am, most seniors showed up with their blankets, breakfast, and poster frames to enjoy the early morning sunrise with their friends and bask in the joy of the beginning of an exciting school year. There was music playing, friends laughing, and smiles all around while on the field waiting for the sunrise.   “ We took a lot of pictures, we sat down, ate, walked around, talked to people, and we made a tiktok showing our younger selves, it was really fun,”  Isabella Morra said. 

With the sun coming up, anticipation killing the crowd, the orange and pink hues of the sunset began to peak through the cloudy sky. Conversations of what to do after senior sunrise, plans for the next football game, and weekend plans are heard throughout the early morning. Breakfast provided included breakfast tacos and juice, although many seniors brought their own food and snacks.

"I had chicken nuggets, hash browns, and a lemonade from Chick Fil a," Albert said. "t was really good.”  

Loud cheerful music could be heard throughout the field, setting the tone for the rest of the eventful day.  

Isabella Morra enjoyed the music she heard on the way.

“I heard a lot of RnB , and a lot of Frank Ocean  – in a happy way, enjoying the last activities as a senior,” Mora said.

  Seniors took pictures with frames and posters they stayed up painting and crafting together, similar to arts and crafts they used to create when they were little kids. The overwhelming feeling that their childhoods are coming to an end is forgotten when they’re sitting on a blanket together, the sun is coming up, and they’re sharing stories and laughing together.    

At around 7am, the sun came up and all over the field, seniors were taking pictures together, the orange light bouncing off their flushed faces. Seniors also reflected on their favorite parts of the morning. “[My favorite part was] seeing everybody together, everybody in groups,”  Javier Murrillo said

Moreover, some seniors reminisced on their friendships and how long they've grown up with each other.

“My favorite part was seeing all my friends for the past 4 years,... Ethaniel, Flo, Harper, and Charlie since kindergarten,”  Ausley Albert said.

At around 8am, seniors began leaving to squeeze in breakfast together before school started. When school began, the rush of the morning gave seniors a bittersweet feeling of excitement and hope for the year ahead. 

From Classroom to Cloud Forest: IB Travels to Ecuador

IB students took a trip to Ecuador in late July to experience new cultures and serve communities by helping locals with their daily tasks. 

“In Quito it’s pretty colorful, like the graffiti and the painting of the houses,” Connor Luce said. 

On July 31st, the group landed in Quito, the capital of Ecuador. Over the next few days, they explored the city, taking in the abundant history and culture. They visited numerous churches, including the infamous Basílica del Voto Nacional, to explore Ecuador’s deep Catholic roots. The students also ventured to the outskirts of the city, where they had the opportunity to interact with traditional Ecuadorian communities. One of the most memorable stops was the Chimborazo community, where the group stayed at a luxurious hotel nestled near the towering Chimborazo volcano.

“The decor was really pretty, the spa was very nice, and I also really liked the food,” Bailee Perez said. 

Following their short stay in Chimborazo, the students returned to Quito to prepare for the next leg of their journey: the Galapagos Islands. After a short flight, they landed on the small island of San Cristobal. They quickly checked into their hotel and headed straight to the beach, where they were greeted by the extraordinary sight of hundreds of sea lions lounging on the sand.

“All the seals on the Galapagos…I found that to be something I’ve never experienced before,” Xavier Davila said, “I’ve seen aquatic animals like that from a distance, but over here, just to be within 3 or 4 feet of them was a surreal experience.”

The following day, the students went scuba diving in the chilling ocean waters. Despite the unpleasant temperature, the students were thrilled to swim alongside exotic fish, massive sea turtles, and sea lions twirling through the waves. Their time on San Cristobal came with plenty of beach fun and wildlife excursions, and soon the group boarded a boat for a long journey to their next island destination. 

“The coolest thing I did was the long boat ride where there were roosters crowing for two hours, and we got to see some very cool fish that were in the ocean beside the boat,” Bella Zimermann said. 

The second island offered a similar itinerary of relaxing beach visits and local cultural experiences. Students spent time soaking up the sun, shopping in Ecuadorian markets, and learning more about the island’s wildlife. As the trip drew to a close, the group gathered to swap stories and laugh over all the unforgettable moments they’d shared.

“I felt very blessed to have access to a lot of amenities that we often take for granted as Westerners, and I’ll definitely go home and understand the privileges that I have and apply that to have more empathy towards other people,” Davila said. 

If you are interested in joining the next IB adventure, visit the IB hall or contact Ms. Hesselbaker for more information. 

“I’ve been to a lot of places, but this trip was probably my favorite because I got to do it with my friends,” Miller Pailet said. 

NOVEMBER ELECTIONS

For many seniors, November 4, 2025 will mark the first time they are eligible to vote. That’s not just a milestone, but a responsibility.

It’s easy to feel like one vote doesn’t matter, but history shows otherwise. In local and state elections outcomes are sometimes decided by just a handful of ballots. Young people often complain that politicians don’t listen to them, but they will if the younger generation show up. If they don’t, decisions about their schools, their rights, and communities will be made without young voices at the table.

This year, Texas voters will be deciding on 17 proposed constitutional amendments along with special elections for important seats in congress and the state senate. These aren’t small issues happening “somewhere far away.” The outcomes of these votes shape education funding, community resources, and the future laws we'll all live under.

So, if you’re 18, or will be by election day, take the time to register, research, and vote. If you’re not old enough yet, talk to family and friends who are. Change doesn’t come from silence, it comes from showing up.

2024-2025

 STUDENTS DEMAND IS MAKING AN IMPACT ONE STEP AT A TIME

What a ridiculous world we live in.  School shootings, mall shootings, and even shootings at grocery stores are now recurring things we hear about on the news. Students Demand Action is a club committed to changing this. This club has been the perfect outlet for many students to channel their frustration with society into something more. 

“SDA has been life changing for me, I feel useful and like I’m doing something good that doesn’t just impact me but everyone around me,” Brynn Beecham said.

Students Demand Action is an organization that promotes advocacy for gun safety policies and empowers students to use their voices to make change while educating on the reality of gun violence across our nation. 

“While being a member of this club, I can proudly say I have impacted countless people in my community,” Neve Healy said. “I’ve been a part of writing to legislators on gun safety policies and issues, planned events to honor gun violence victims in my community, and even spread awareness through student safety panels at my high school.”

This club has provided students with the ability to speak out against this issue and introduced students to so many tangible ways that they have been able to make contributions toward change. 

“Through this organization, I hope to ease the minds of younger generations. Students should feel free to learn in their classroom without worrying about being in the view of a window. They might not know I’m working to protect them, but I do,” Beecham said.

Members of SDA were even able to attend Advocacy Day in Austin this year. An event where so many come together to protest and bring awareness to gun violence.

“Advocacy day was a truly impactful experience. So many others agree with our stance on gun violence and it is truly heartwarming to see,” Healy said.

Advocacy Day occurs once every two years with attendance growing each time.

“Bringing awareness to the lack of gun safety in the United States has shown me the value of using my voice and fostered my passion for advocacy. It's taught me that I must do all I can to ensure a better and safer future for all,” Healy said.

Meet the new captain america

Marvel has released the latest movie in phase five, Captain: America Brave New World. Directed by Julius Onah and starring Anthony Mackie as this generation's new Captain America alongside Harrison Ford, Danny Ramirez and Carl Lumbly.

As a massive marvel fan I came into this experience hoping that it wouldn't be as bad as recent Marvel releases post Endgame but my hopes were sadly squashed.

The movie opens with Sam Wilson ( Anthony Mackie) former Falcon now Captain America busting a mercenary group in Oaxaca and it immediately spirals from there resulting in an assassination attempt on President Thaddeus Ross (Harrison Ford) and a global panic over the introduction of a new biomaterial, Adamantium.

The film to me was not up to the standards and expectations that I had for a new addition to both the Captain America franchise and Marvel Cinematic Universe. Most of Marvel's releases post Endgame have been lackluster cash grabs and without the major players in the franchise (Robert Downey Jr, Chris Evans, Scarlet Johannsen) Marvel has had to start using reserve characters without building any real connection with them beforehand.

We are never given an explanation for why Sam is the new Captain America in the movie and therefore no reason to want him to be Captain America. This is explained in the series “Falcon and the Winter Soldier” but if you haven't watched that you are left confused.

The movie wasn't all bad. The story was interesting for the most part and I loved Mackie's performance but outside of that I found that this movie was unnecessary for the future of the Marvel franchise. 

The post credit scene was very fun however and hinted towards an alternate universe and maybe even alternate avengers from different universes which might come up in the new Doomsday movie Marvel has been teasing.

I give this movie a 4.5/10.

SPRING BREAK

As Hillcrest High School students in Dallas prepare for spring break from March 7 to 17, 2025, a variety of local activities await to make the week enjoyable and enriching. Whether students are looking for adventure, culture, or entertainment, there are plenty of options to explore right in their hometown.

For those who love the outdoors, Klyde Warren Park will be hosting a week of free activities, including live music, dance performances, and interactive exhibits from March 11-17. Nature lovers can also take a break from the city at Cedar Ridge Preserve, which offers nine miles of scenic hiking trails filled with native plants and wildlife.

Students interested in cultural and educational experiences can visit the Dallas Zoo, which is featuring special programming from March 10-16. Visitors can enjoy up-close animal encounters and interactive activities designed to make learning fun. Meanwhile, art lovers may want to check out the Arlington Museum of Art, where one of the featured exhibits includes authentic wardrobe pieces from the movie Wicked.

For those who enjoy hands-on experiences, several workshops are available. On March 9, select LEGO® stores will be hosting a free event where kids ages six and up can build and take home their own LEGO® Steering Wheel. Lowe’s will also be hosting a DIY-U workshop on March 15, where young builders can assemble their very own Recycling Truck. These events require early arrival or registration due to limited supplies.

For a fun-filled day with a great view of the city, students can head to the Reunion Tower GeO-Deck, which will offer a lineup of exciting activities from March 10-16. Guests can experience bubble science demonstrations, live animal encounters, magic shows, and more, all included with general admission.

With so many exciting opportunities, students at Hillcrest High School can look forward to a spring break full of adventure, creativity, and relaxation. Whether exploring the outdoors, learning something new, or just enjoying time with friends, Dallas has plenty to offer this season.

WAY DOWN HADESTOWN

Through Dallas Independent School District’s Fine Arts program, the Hillcrest Panther Theatre and Panther Band students are going to see Hadestown the Musical on Thursday February 27th. But, unless you are a fan of Greek Mythology, a percy jackson fanatic, or a theatre kid, few know the story, the repetitious tragedy, of Orpheus and Eurydice. 

Opening on April 17, 2019, Hadestown is a musical retelling of the Greek legend of Orpheus and Eurydice and it did not start out as the beloved Broadway musical we know today. Written by Anaïs Mitchell, the musical started as a DIY community project over a decade ago. The theatre project then became a studio album, an Off-Broadway production, and is now known for the powerful and impactful presence it has in Broadway’s theatre community. 

Over the course of the two and a half hour show, our reliable narrator, the messenger god himself, Hermes speaks to the audience and takes us along this journey. Following the beginnings of the romance between Orphesus and Eurydice all the way to Hades and back. Through strong and beautiful vocals from every cast member, a powerful supporting ensemble, and a live band on stage playing 40 songs, the audience follows not only the story of the young love and hardships of Orphesus and Eurydice, but also the ancient love and struggles of Hades and Persephone.

Hadestown is a tragedy, and while I won’t spoil the ending, there is no hope for our young lovers. As said in the opening number “It's a sad song. It's a sad tale. It's a tragedy”, but they sing the song anyway. And I hope that you will take the opportunity to see them sing it while the tour is in Dallas. 

GOOD EATS: HELLO DUMPLING DELIGHTS

It's finally that time of year again. The leaves are changing colors and falling off the branches and the temperature is finally going down. However, the good eats crew doesn’t want all our loyal readers to freeze in the midst of all the cold drafts, so we have decided what better to warm up the readers than some delicious dumplings. Thats right readers this issue we’ll be trying dumplings, noodles, skewers, and delicious drinks from Hello Dumpling. 

Before we dive into the actual food review, let's talk about the atmosphere. Before walking into the restaurant there is a giant dumpling in between chopsticks that is an excellent spot for taking pictures. After the crew ordered all the food we slid into a booth with yellow birds and blue clouds on the wall. The overall atmosphere of the restaurant was cozy, calm, and overall a really pleasant place.

The first dish we received was the chicken rice dumplings which were priced at around $10 for 8 dumplings. The taste of the dumplings was fairly good with all members loving the chicken filling, however the texture of the rice raised some issues since none of us expected the rice to be sticky. Even with the surprising texture the score for the rice dumpling came out to a strong 6.4.

The next thing on the menu was the Grilled chicken soup noodles. This dish had a really strong initial flavor and reminded most of the crew of an enhanced homemade chicken noodle soup. Although it had a great flavour and gave the crew a bit of nostalgia we found the dish quite simple and rated it only slightly above average at a 6.2.

Our next try was the peking noodles with pork priced at $12. These noodles had minimal broth and were more saucy than the previous noodles. The combination of the pork with the noodles didn't satisfy most of us and the noodles in general felt more chewier than other dishes. Some of our crew members compared the dishes' aesthetic similar to that of a dog's plate. The overall look and taste of this dish left the average rating at 2.5.

After that we tried the restaurant's handmade pan fried shrimp with zucchini noodles and pork with napa cabbage dumplings. The group was quite mixed on the texture of the shrimp dumplings, but the taste overall was delicious. With small, nicely seasoned diced pieces of shrimp with the slightly crispy outer dough, we rated these a 7.2. While it lost some points from those in the group who weren’t the biggest fan of the shrimp pieces, we would highly recommend it to seafood fans. The pork with napa cabbage dumplings were a solid, homey and classic dish. Well seasoned, slightly room temperature due to them sitting out while we tried other dishes, with the texture you would expect from a dumpling. Sitting at a high overall rating of 8.3, highly recommended to those who are new to dumplings or those who are looking for a classic and comforting meal. 

The last savory dish before dessert, priced at nine dollars for three skewers, were the beef chaun’r skewers. With a little bit of spice, warm and tenderly cooked, the crew rated these a high 8.8. In all honesty, there is not a lot to say about these, simply well seasoned beef skewers, nothing complicated about it. 

The crew ended lunch off with mango and apple sweet dumplings for dessert. The apple dumpling was reminiscent of an apple pie with a great ratio of dough to apple to cinnamon sugar. Although the crew has had a rocky past with apples, this dessert put a smile on all of our faces and left us all in agreement that it deserved a rating of 9. In the other softer dumplings however the mango was veering far away from our stellar expectations. “A crispy shell with soft mango inside that is akin to baby food”, Editor-in-Chief Eden Mason said. This could be a great dish for kids who are transferring over to solids or people with veneers. However, since all of the good eats members have grown out all of our teeth none of the crew was fans of this particular dish, landing at a disappointing 2.5.

Last but certainly not least, Hello dumpling has a wide variety of drinks for all taste preferences. Their selection includes several types of milk teas, hot and iced teas, lemonades, soft drinks and water. The crew tried three of their bobas including the Thai milk, Taro, and Golden milk tea along with a fruity lemonade. All of the drinks were delicious and the only suggestion we have is to get to the shop early so the tapioca is still fresh.

Overall, Hello Dumpling is a wonderful and inviting place with good food and plenty of variety. We would highly recommend it as a place to hang out with friends, or even just to treat yourself!

VALENTINE'S DAY IDEAS; CELEBRATING LOVE,FRIENDSHIP

Valentines day ideas for students: Celebrating love and friendship on campus

Valentine’s Day is just around the corner and there are plenty of ways to celebrate without breaking the bank, whether you are making the day special with a significant other, your best friends, or simply showing yourself some love. Here are some fun and affordable ideas perfect for students at our school:

1. Personalized playlist

Curate a playlist filled with songs that remind you of your friend or that special someone! Add tracks that have meaning to your relationship whether they are nostalgic or just fun. You can even decorate the playlist cover art with a custom design or message.

2. DIY gift exchange

Create something thoughtful instead of spending money! You could write a heartfelt letter, craft a friendship bracelet, or bake cookies for someone you care about. It really is the thought that counts, and a personal touch goes a long way!

3. Random acts of kindness

Random acts of kindness are a really simple way to brighten someone's day! Whether it's holding the door open, leaving anonymous compliments, or even helping someone with picking up their stuff, small gestures can spread positivity all day and this doesn't have to be just towards people you know!

4. Favorite Snacks Gift Bag

Putting together a little gift bag or box filled with their favorite snacks, candy, or drinks, can really show someone you care for that you pay attention to the things they like! Paired with a sweet card or handwritten note can add an extra thoughtful touch.

5. Customized keychain or trinket

Make or order a small meaningful gift like a personalized keychain, bracelet, or necklace. You can engrave initials, a date, or a small phrase that means something to you both! It’s a keepsake they can carry around with them every day.

6. Photo Collage or scrapbook

Print out your favorite photos together and create a small photo collage or scrapbook. Add captions, doodles, or quotes that highlight your favorite moments. Its a great way to remind them how much you cherish your time together.

7. Memory Jar

Fill a jar with handwritten notes, each one sharing a memory, reason why you appreciate them, or a little inside joke. Decorate the jar with ribbons or stickers for a cute personal touch!

No matter how you choose to celebrate, Valentine's Day doesn't have to be expensive to be meaningful. Whether you're making memories with friends, surprising a special someone, or simply enjoying the day solo, there’s something for everyone to enjoy! Sometimes the simplest, most heartfelt gifts are the ones that mean the most. This Valentines Day, lets focus on celebrating the connections that make life sweeter, and the love and friendship we share as a school community. 

INTERSTELLAR: A JOURNEY THROUGH SPACE AND TIME

“Interstellar”, directed by Christopher Nolan, is a cinematic masterpiece that takes its viewers on an extraordinary journey through space and time. Interstellar is a movie like no other, its cinematography is out of this world. This film is set in a dystopian future where Earth is facing severe environmental decline and humanity’s survival is at stake. The protagonist, Cooper, who is played by Mathew McConaghey, is a former NASA pilot who is recruited for a mission to find a new habitable planet for mankind. 

This film captures the themes of love, sacrifice, and relentless pursuit in such beautiful ways. It introduces the idea of wormholes, black holes, and the concept of time traveling to its viewers. The narrative of this film is intricate and thought-provoking, merging scientific concepts with a deeply personal story. 

The special effects are groundbreaking, creating awe inspiring depictions of space phenomenons. This film enhances the viewers experience on a whole other level leaving its viewers in awe with its emotional atmosphere.

 McConaughey delivers a heartfelt portrayal of a father torn between his love for his children and his duty to save humanity. His acting will leave you on the verge of tears. Anne Hathaway was an amazing supporting actress as she is well known for other movies she is starred in such as “The Devil Wears Prada" and “The Princess Diaries”. 

Interstellar is more than just a sci-fi adventure, it's a profound exploration of human resilience and the bonds that tie us together. This film challenges viewers to think about the future of our planet and the sacrifices we are willing to make for the greater good. Interstellar is a movie worth watching with its engaging plot and deep emotional storytelling. 

END IN SIGHT; GRADUATION REMINDERS

 As we reach the end of the final high school fall semester for the Class of 2025, it is important that all seniors and their families stay informed about graduation dates and requirements. 

Graduation will be at Alfred J. Loos Field House on Sunday, May 25th starting at 12:30pm. Information about tickets, graduation rehearsal and more will be released at a later date, but if you have any questions reach out to the senior class officers, sponsors, or the class social media accounts. 

All Seniors must purchase their cap and gown either in person or from the Josten’s website as soon as possible. The link for the Josten’s website can be found below, otherwise if you go to the Josten’s website, find Hillcrest High School in Dallas, Texas in the “find my school” search bar, and choose your graduation package, you can purchase your graduation requirements there. 

Reminder! Meet with the ASP Advisors to make sure you have completed all of the graduation requirements immediately. Students will not be able to graduate or walk the stage if they do not complete all necessary steps. 

Have a great last semester!

HHS 2025 Josten's Link: https://www.jostens.com/apps/store/catalogBrowse/1078292/HILLCREST-HIGH-SCHOOL/Graduation/2590164563/CATALOG_REPOSITORY/

HOLIDAY SEASON; TIME FOR KINDNESS, SELF CARE

 Navigating the Pressures of the Festive Season

The holiday season is a time typically filled with joy and family gatherings, but it can also bring unexpected stress and pressure.  Many find themselves grappling with the increased demands of this time of year leading to a noticeable rise in mental health challenges.  As McLean Hospital points out, factors such as "lack of time, financial pressure, gift-giving, and family gatherings" all contribute to this increase.  This is further emphasized by the National Alliance on Mental Illness, which highlights that a substantial percentage of individuals living with mental illness experience a worsening of their condition during the holidays.

“ The holiday season can be stressful because many people feel the need to do so much, and there is so many things to do and buy for family and friends and it can be overwhelming,” Cayden DeFord said.

The sheer volume of social events, tasks, and expectations can easily overwhelm even the most organized individuals. Forbes explains that "Depression tends to increase during the holidays due to an increase in demands (perceived as stressful), family issues, and being unable to manage expectations."  This feeling of being overwhelmed can be particularly acute for those already dealing with underlying mental health concerns.

“ It’s good to be nice, especially during the holiday seasons. It’s a really stressful time for a lot of people, and sometimes you need that extra kindness to make getting through it easier,” Jack Lilly said

Therefore, this year, let’s prioritize kindness – both towards ourselves and others.  Self care is not a luxury, but a necessity, especially during this busy season.  Taking time for activities that bring you joy and peace, whether it's spending time in nature, pursuing a hobby, or simply enjoying quiet moments of reflection, can significantly reduce stress and improve your overall well-being.  This might involve setting realistic boundaries or saying no to commitments that feel overwhelming and making time for relaxation and self care practices, such as meditation or spending time in nature.

“ You must acknowledge that each individual has their own things going on, and that includes yourself. It is perfectly okay and healthy to ask for help and know when you need a little backup,” Esther Ogunlolu said.

Remember to be understanding of your own limitations and don’t hesitate to reach out for support if needed.  Open communication with family and friends can help alleviate pressure and manage expectations.  If you're struggling, connecting with mental health professionals or support groups can provide valuable guidance and support during challenging times.  This proactive approach to self care will help you navigate the holiday season with greater resilience and enjoy the festive season to the fullest.  

“I just want it to be a positive time and easier on everyone else because it’s supposed to be a happy time. I want people to be aware that it is okay to ask for help and admit that sometimes things are a bit stressful, and it’s perfectly fine,” Cayden DeFord said.

Let’s make this holiday season one of genuine connection, compassion, and understanding.

GOOD EATS: HO-HO-HOT COCO

The temperature outside is going down which means it's time to pull out your mugs, marshmallows and whipped cream because it's hot chocolate time. Although the crew was originally going to review five different brands the hurricanes resident snoop on the stoop made a very lucrative deal with a red nosed reindeer trading one of our hot coco’s for some marshmallows. With all the bartering done, the crew was left with four brands including Abuelita, Starbucks, Swiss Miss, and La Madeleine. With full consideration towards all our readers, we tried three of the brands made from milk and water.

The crew started off trying each of the drinks mixed with milk as some of the brands recommended for a stronger, richer flavor.

The first hot chocolate the crew tried was the classic and original Swiss Miss. With many of us having grown up drinking Swiss Miss, it's no surprise it was rated highly with members of the crew. It instantly had the strongest chocolate flavor, going down smooth with no powdery aftertaste. Swiss Miss reminded us of classic Christmas and ended up with an overall rating of 9 out of 10.

Our next hot coco is not your typical chocolate drink. Infused with spice, Abuelita’s hot chocolate mixed with milk offers a cultural blend of warmth and tradition. This hot coco, known for its strong cinnamon taste, was a surprise to many of us. It had an uncanny resemblance to the hot tamale candy. This left some of us unsure of the intense kick, and complexity of the drink compared to our other sweeter options. This drink is perfect for readers who prefer a nutmeg, cinnamon, and less of a chocolate flavor to their coco’s. Our overall rating of this chocolate is an average 7 out of 10. 

Next on our list, Starbucks’s hot chocolate mixed with milk. Another great treat, this hot coco came with the perfect amount of chocolate and mixed smoothly with the milk. The marshmallows on top added a fluffy and creamier texture to the hot coco. However, unlike the Swiss Miss, Starbucks hot chocolate left a powdery and dry aftertaste. Towards the end of the drink, the chocolate flavor diminished leaving a bland taste for the rest of the cup. Our overall rating for this drink is a total of 7.6 out of 10. 

For our lactose intolerant readers, we also reviewed all of the previous hot chocolate mixes with water as well. 

Swiss Miss with water had a lighter or less rich flavor than its milk counterpart. However, it is still good for those who are craving hot chocolate but don’t have milk available. It did not have a particularly powered aftertaste like some of the other mixes, but the classic chocolate flavor does not linger very long. A decent drink and still a holiday classic, just not our personal favorite. Overall rating was a 5.7 out of 10. 

Abuelita mixed with water was a fine drink overall. Very bland, with the chocolate flavor completely overpowered by the spices. If you are looking for a strong, spicy drink, this might be perfect for you. But with an overall rating of 2 out of 10, it was very low on our personal list. 

Only one of our brave testers, Happy, was willing to try the Starbucks mix with water, after a while tasting several hot chocolates can make you a little sick. But her thoughts were far from positive. It was a truly horrendous experience, a borderline “crime against nature” as she called it. It tasted very watered down, grainy and powdery in every sip. Her rating wasn’t even a number, it was simply “NO! No one should ever have to taste this monstrous flavor”. So try at your own risk, friends. 

A special treat for this issue was fresh La Madeleine hot chocolate. This warm and comforting drink had a perfect depth and richness in its flavor. It had no bad, bitter or powdery aftertaste with a well blended texture and taste. It is “a hot chocolate I could see myself dreaming about” as Happy said. The perfect treat for a cold winter day. It was the last hot chocolate we all tried, yet this hot chocolate was so delicious that we all finished our cups despite a bit of hot chocolate fatigue. With an overall rating of 9 out of 10, it was the perfect chocolate to end this tasting with. 

SOUPER SOUP DAY!

Soup day is some of our teacher’s favorite events of the year! What better way to prepare for the holidays than trying various diverse soups to see which one you might want to recreate this holiday season! Let's learn some more about the behind the scenes and the details of soup day from Community Liaison Lisa Smith!

Q: How was soup day different this year from past years? 

A: All of the crock pots got picked up at the end of the day. Usually there are 4 left to wash so I was pleased with that part.” 

Q: What were the most yummy soups you saw even though you may not have got a chance to try it?

A: I was too busy helping out so unfortunately, I didn’t get to try any soups! However, the salmon potato soup made by an Alaskan student’s mom, looked delicious! There’s also a green pozole each year that I thoroughly enjoy.” 

Q: Who organizes soup day? 

A: Our lovely PTSA chairs, Mrs. Mompo and Mrs. Vance, have been the main organizers of soup day for the past few years.” 

Q: How long has soup day been a tradition?

A: “Soup day has been a tradition for about 20+ years I would say. It’s been around since I started working here 7 years ago.” 

Here’s a bonus answer from Ms. Boone who loves everything about soup day: 

Q: What were your two favorite soups Ms. Boone?

A: “The chicken gnocchi one was very good and the green pozole was my other favorite, I loved the kick!”

Finally Fall

As the sweltering heat of summer finally gives way to the crisp, cool embrace of fall in Dallas, the transformation is palpable. The city begins to shed its intense summer attire, welcoming a season of change and vibrant hues. The oppressive heat that once lingered in the air fades into memory replaced by a refreshing breeze that invites residents outdoors.

In parks and backyards the once-dry grass springs to life and the trees don their fall colors, painting the landscape in shades of orange, yellow, and deep crimson. The scent of cinnamon and pumpkin spice wafts through the air as local cafes begin to roll out their seasonal specials. Neighbors emerge from their homes, gathering for weekend barbecues, fall festivals, and outdoor events that were simply too hot to enjoy just a few weeks prior.

As daylight shortens, the evenings become perfect for cozy gatherings around fire pits where stories are shared, s’mores are roasted, and laughter fills the cool night air. The change in season also signals the start of various local traditions, from pumpkin patches to Halloween events that bring a festive spirit to the city. The Dallas skyline, silhouetted against a backdrop of autumn foliage, becomes a stunning reminder of the beauty that this season brings.

This fall, Dallas is not just a city, it’s a vibrant tapestry of experiences, flavors, and celebrations, inviting everyone to revel in the wonders of the season after a blissfully hot summer.

ASk h. Katrina

Q: Hey Katrina, why is there no paper in the bathrooms?

This is an amazing question because why ISN’T there any paper in the restrooms? I’m not sure if you mean paper towels or toilet paper, but both are a problem. 

Starting off with the paper towels. 

How on EARTH did anyone think AIR DRYERS were a good idea? Okay, fine, they technically are better for the environment, but everything else about them is super gross. According to a new study from researchers at the University of Connecticut and Quinnipiac University, hot air hand-dryers may be sucking up bacteria and dumping it back onto washed hands. The horror!!! Do you want to know where the bacteria in the air comes from? When you flush the toilet…a bunch of fecal microbes go up into the air like a cloud. So basically, the hand dryers are drying your hands with poop air.

 Not only this, but many hand dryers reach over 100 dbs that after only 15 minutes can cause permanent hearing loss. You are probably only drying your hands for 15-30 seconds on average; however, children’s and teenager’s ears are highly susceptible to damage even during this short amount of time. But let’s be real, even if we had paper towel dispensers, would there be paper towels in them? Probably not, so your hands are either going to be wet or covered in poop air. 

Speaking of, let’s circle back to the toilet paper problem. I wish I had a way to help, but this is purely a maintenance issue. I understand the feeling. You’ve just “emptied your bowels” and you’re feeling light as a feather, blissful to the fact that once you look over, you’ll be hit with the sudden realization that…uh-oh…there’s no toilet paper. To avoid this problem, go door-to-door, or stall-to-stall, and check if there’s any toilet paper before you choose the stall. If there’s no toilet paper in any stall, rare but possible, hold it, or waddle around school with your pants down. 

In conclusion, air dryers are bad, and toilet paper is only slightly necessary. Alternative to problem #1  is leaving your hands wet and drying them on your clothes, and alternative to problem #2 is using your hands to clean yourself  like every other mammal (but PLEASE don't). 

 ASk h. Katrina

Q: Hey Katrina, why do they only give pizza every day? We need different food.

Normally, teenagers love pizza. The best example I can think of is the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles. They literally just eat pizza in the sewer. However, everything is fine…in proportion. What was once a greasy, deliciously-decorated piece of pizza is now a soggy, floppy isosceles triangle. 

So why DOES the cafeteria serve pizza every single day? This issue goes way above my pay grade (I’m not even paid so really everything is), so I’m taking my best guess here. The word around town is that it’s a supply chain issue. The superintendent and the food people actually do make a new menu, but they only have a limited supply, and Hillcrest doesn’t make the cut. Since I can’t force the superintendent to send different food to us (Although, I implore you to do so yourself), I think there is only one option. Pack a lunch for yourself. In fact, here is a step by step guide on how to make a peanut butter and jelly sandwich.

Perfect! You’re so good at this. Now put it in your backpack and eat up. If you’re too lazy to get up 10 minutes earlier to make lunch, then get used to some pizza. If you would like me to draft a letter to the superintendent to get the school lunches fixed, show some support for this section of the newspaper. Tell your friends about it, and maybe get them to submit their own burning questions. And I, Hurricane Katrina, promise that if the superintendent doesn’t hear our cries, I will make waves.

 FRANKENWEENIE; AN EXPERIMENT GONE WRONG? 

Tim Burton, an american animator and filmmaker commonly known for his gothic horror and fantasy films, has made movies widely known today such as corpse bride, alice in wonderland, charlie and the chocolate factory,and nightmare before christmas. 

I liked the movie and thought it had a lot of creativity put into it because it’s not something you tend to imagine on a daily basis much less make a movie into. My favorite part of the movie was when Victor revives Sparky and gets reunited with him since their abrupt goodbye. I would give the movie a 6/10. Simply because it was a little boring and the story Isn’t one to catch your attention. Aside from that the animation style was really cool and unique, you don’t really see that often. 

The story of Frankenweenie takes place in a suburban neighborhood with main character’s Sparky, and Victor. In the movie Victor is a science nerd and doesn’t get along with others causing him to be a social outcast. The science fair is coming up but in order to participate he needs his fathers permission. On his way home he is told by a girl that her cat has dreamed of him and it's an omen. As he goes back home he hands his father the permission slip but his dad tells him in order to do the fair he’s going to have to do a sport. Victor decided to do baseball and in a match he throws a homerun. Since Sparky is trained to go retrieve balls when thrown ,Sparky sees the homerun ball, runs to catch it,and gets into a crash. 

Devastated Victor’s science teacher gives him the idea of bringing Sparky back to life and it works! But Victor's Classmates see this and take the idea for themselves, By taking the idea they start to use his method to jolt other dead animals alive but their actions later on prove to have consequences.

A TIMELESS LOVE STORY: THE NOTEBOOK

The Notebook is a romantic film directed by Nick Cassavettes and was released June 25th, 2004. The film was also based on a novel by Nicholas Sparks. The story consists of two young lovers, Noah Calhoun played by popular actor Ryan Gosling and Allie Hamilton played by popular actor Rachell’ Mcadams. The film beautifully portrays two young lovers who fell deeply in love during the summer of 1940s. 

Noah and Allie’s love for each other captured the innocence and passion of teenage love. Despite the fact that they came from opposite backgrounds they still managed a way to become inseparable. Allie, the daughter of rich parents, is spending the summer in New Bern on vacation and getting ready to move away to college and follow her parents footsteps with a life set and planned out for her. Meanwhile Noah was working in a lumberyard with little to no thoughts on his plan for the future. These two spent their summer in denial up until reality hit them, both had to face the fact their lifestyles did not align. Allie’s parents decided it would be best for her to follow her life as planned without any distractions like a small town boy. Will these obstacles be able to break them apart, or will their love for each other overcome them? 

The cinematography of the movie perfectly portrays the emotional journey of the characters. The shift from the present and future scenes keeps the viewers engaged and adds a layer of emotional intensity. The soundtrack of the movie consists of a lot of instrumental which adds to the emotional scenes. The cinematography also captures the beautiful southern landscapes shown throughout the film along with the natural light that enhances the atmosphere. 

Apart from the fact that the chemistry between  the characters is beautiful, the actors Ryan Gosling and Rachell Mcadams make the romance between Noah and Allie so compelling to watch. Not only do their performances feel genuine and heartfelt, but they also bring depth to the love story of Noah and Allie. I truly do not think there could have been a better cast for the movie. 

The Notebook is a beautifully portrayed film that dives into the theme of an enduring teenage love. The film has touched the hearts of many and there’s no doubt that it will touch yours either. Whether you’re a hopeless romantic or simply appreciate a well filmed love story The Notebook will offer an emotional journey that will leave you hooked on the bittersweetness of a summer teenage love. 

     SAHARA DESERT FLOODING

  New lakes were formed in the Sahara desert. In the desert? Yes, the Sahara desert experienced super heavy rain in September. “It’s been 30 to 50 years since we’ve had this much rain in such a short space of time,” Houssine Youabeb from Morocco’s meteorology agency told AP last week. The sahara usually does get rain but usually just a few inches a year and rarely in late summer. So many were surprised to find out about this.

    How did it happen? It was caused by a low pressure system that pushed across northwestern Sahara. Now nourishing some of its driest regions with more water than they had seen in decades. a phenomenon some studies have linked to human-caused climate change.More extreme rainfall events could be expected in the Sahara in the future, according to recent research, as fossil fuel pollution continues to heat up the planet and disrupt the water cycle.

    While much of the rain fell on sparsely-populated remote areas, some fell on Morocco’s towns and villages causing deadly flooding last month, which killed more than a dozen people and damaged farmers harvests, forcing the government to allocate emergency relief funds. Particularly in areas that are still recovering from last year's devastating earthquake that killed at least 2,960 people.

GOOD EATS: NOTHING BUNDT AWESOME

This good eats issue we added a few new members and initiated them into the group with some sweet treats. However, we didn't just choose any sweets, we chose an irresistible selection of cakes from Nothing Bundt Cakes to make our initiation extra special. We had six cakes in total, two from the timeless category Pumpkin spice and classic vanilla, two from the decadent category Red velvet and White chocolate raspberry, Lemon from the refreshing category, and the limited time pop up flavor Caramel apple cider. All of these flavors were carefully sampled, rated and assigned their rightful rankings from worst to best based on their deliciousness. 

The first flavor our crew tried was the classic flavor vanilla. This flavor was really moist and had that traditional and timeless taste. This cake is perfect for simple parties and great to enjoy with friends. Our overall rating for vanilla is 6/10. While it is a beloved classic, its availability and simplicity make it a flavor we can find anywhere in the world. It may lack the uniqueness of more adventurous options, but it still delivers a reliable, familiar taste.

The next flavor we tried from this selection was lemon from the refreshing category. This flavor had a zesty and citrusy smell, you could tell it was lemon from a mile away. As excited as we were to taste that same citrusy aroma that had teased our noses, our excitement diminished when we realized the lemony flavor was quite subtle. Being bought from the refreshing category, this flavor didn't quite match the title. Our overall enjoyment for lemon was average, it didn't quite catch the eye of citrus lovers and was a big no for citrus dislikers. Our overall rating for this flavor was a fair 5/10.

After having the refreshing lemon the crew tried red velvet from the decadent category. The cake was a simple red velvet cake, with chocolate chips mixed in and a delicious cream cheese frosting that was included in several of the cakes we tried. Although most of the crew had high expectations, after trying it, the cake left us with mixed reviews. Both the aroma and taste of the cake left a lot to the imagination with some members comparing it in flavor to the vanilla bundt cake. Whilst those in the crew who were already red velvet fanatics gave the cake a 10/10 the overall average rating for the red velvet bundt cake was a 7/10. 

Next on the list was the favorite of the tasting, the decadent and fruity flavor of White Chocolate Raspberry. With a light and fluffy texture, pieces of delicious raspberry mixed right into the batter, and a sweet but not overpowering frosting, this cake left us all happy and raised our spirits after some disappointing previous flavors. This was one of the only cakes that every member of our crew fully finished their slice. With a strong 9/10 rating overall, even the members of Good Eats who don’t like cake, said that they would happily go buy it again firmly securing the well deserved 1st place.

Next up, the timeless classic Pumpkin spice. In all honesty, this flavor did not meet our expectations, though it wasn’t in the way you might expect. This cake truly lived up to its name, with a strong scent and flavor of the classic fall spices, the homey taste of pumpkin and the classic and delicious cream cheese frosting. However, due to the heaviness of pumpkin as an ingredient, the cake ended up being quite dense, closer to the texture of bread than cake. Not necessarily a bad thing, we were just not expecting such a heavy cake and some were quite thrown off by the texture. Additionally, this flavor had a very strong nutmeg aftertaste, overall  and was overall very delicious, living up to the pumpkin spice legacy, With an overall rating of 8/10, this cake/bread was a solid 2nd place finisher. 

The final flavor we tried and the one most were excited about is Caramel Apple cider which was a pop-up flavor. Out of all, this flavor was the most visually appealing and had a strong smell of cider. To our disappointment, most of us found the taste of the cake very unpleasant. The flavor was overwhelmingly sharp, almost reminiscent of spoiled fruit. It left an unappealing aftertaste that was hard to ignore. Although this is how much of us felt, apple cider lovers who tried this flavor fell in love with it. The caramel apple cider flavor definitely comes down to personal taste. Our overall rating for it is a disappointing 3/10 putting the caramel apple cider bundt cake in 6th place. However, Mrs. Boone gave it an 11/10 and thoroughly enjoyed the flavor.

LET THE GAMES BEGIN!

Homecoming is just around the corner and we can’t wait to get into spirit week, the homecoming parade, and ultimately the dance! So let's get into the details and even introduce some new and fun things that will be added to the homecoming week itinerary this year.

In an effort to try and include all students as much as possible in this event, even the ones who are unable to attend, there will be social activities throughout the week held in different locations to bring together the Hillcrest spirit! 

“We’re really trying to give everyone the best homecoming week experience that we can this year, even if they can’t make it to the dance,” Mrs. Holmes-Turner said.

Monday there is no school but there is an all day yogurtland fundraiser, in which every student that buys yogurt and says they go to Hillcrest High School will have a percentage of their order donated back to the school. Tuesday, there will be a movie night showing The Super Mario Movie. Wednesday is preview night so unfortunately no activity that day. Thursday will be game night! And lastly, on Friday, pep rally, Homecoming parade, block party, and finally the football game!!!

“The after school activities during the week will run from 4:45-6:00, so that kids are still able to ride the after school buses,” Holmes-Turner said.

400 tickets will be available for purchase this year on a first come first serve basis. The hope for this year is that the new inclusive theme encourages students who aren’t usually interested in school dances to give it a try and keep the students who love them entertained.

“The theme for homecoming is ‘Let the Games Begin’ and it came to be from the fact that students on the student council made a point that games are more fun with friends and this theme might translate the united theme onto the students more because of how many people truly love to play games,” Holmes-Turner said.

One last change that makes the dance different from previous years is the location and DJ.

“The dance will be held at Edison’s, a new venue that includes a vintage car for photo ops and lots of space for dancing. We will also have a different DJ this year,” Holmes-Turner said.

Be ready for the night of your life on October 19th!

 Betelgeuse, betelgeuse... Beeeee- Excited!

The sequel we've all been waiting for has just come out to haunt us. Sequel to cult classic, Beetlejuice, Beetlejuice Beetlejuice has just been released to cinemas. Directed by Tim Burton and starring big names like Winona Ryder, Catherine O’Hara, Michael Keaton and Jenna Ortega.

Beetlejuice 2 is set over 3 decades after the events of the original with main character Lydia Deetz (Winona Ryder) as a paranormal tv show host. Shortly after a botched broadcast she is informed by her step mother Delia Deetz (Catherine O’Hara) that her father had tragically died. This prompts Lydia to take a trip back to her old house along with her begrudging teenage daughter, Astrid (Jenna Ortega), to mourn her father. Life soon takes a wild turn for the Deetz’ once Beetlejuice enters the picture once more along with some newer kooky threats.

All in all, Beetlejuice Beetlejuice was an enjoyable film with a stunning cast and a plot with a spirit as wild as the original. I will say that the plot was a bit disjointed. There were a lot of things I felt the film would have done without. Like Monica Belluci…. 

I understand the praise for Burton flaunting what he has on screen, but in my opinion Delores was an unnecessary character. She really just ran around causing trouble and sucking up souls, and I firmly believe the plot would have ended up where it did without her in the story. 

I also understand that to get Jenna Ortega's character into the underworld she was tricked by Arthur Conti’s character, Jeremy, but why were we not given a better payoff for his defeat? For a kid as dangerous as he seemed it felt too easy to defeat him. Beetlejuice just happened to be there and sent him to hell. There was no reverse trickery or real stakes.

I also feel like the best part of this movie was truly Catherine O’Haras’ performance. She was every bit as eccentric as she was in the original and even more so. Her reflections of somewhat shallow but sincere grief for her husband's passing was entertaining and very Delia Deetz-esque.

Michael Keaton's Beetlejuice never fails to portray the stinkbug as the most flamboyant, comical character. I feel like his performance was lost a little in all the chaos but he had many fun memorable scenes. Another one of my favorite characters was Willem Dafoes’, Wolf Jackson. The washed out action star who died doing his own stunts was perfect for him. His scenes were classic action-star slapstick and ponderings of his lost career and I had to say he filled up his space very well.

The movie did feel like it was trying to do everything and have everyone, but the story was still enjoyable and fun. With fun quips like the soul train and the iconic waiting room this movie was a good continuation of the story of the Deetzs’ and Beetlejuice. Truly a wonderful way to fill up two hours.

This movie gets a 7/10 from me.

 ASk h. Katrina

Q: Hey Katrina, why don’t you bring the mirrors back?

Female students at Hillcrest are the baddest out there. But how do they maintain such beauty? Mirrors have been a crucial tool for many women when doing their makeup, hygienic routines, and making sure their outfits are perfect. Recently, however, the mirrors in the girl's restrooms have been removed, and the main question on your mind may be: Why? Well, unbuckle your seatbelt and don’t get too comfortable because the answer... WILL NOT shock you!

Even though I’m sure we all knew the answer, I talked to Mr. De Jesus. And, yep! You guessed it! He said the reason the mirrors were removed was because of how much time girls were spending in the restroom doing their makeup and getting ready. Sure, some girls do spend a considerable amount of time in the restroom. Still, I think the majority are simply making sure their mascara isn’t smudged, and their lips are still poppin’! Removing the mirrors, according to De Jesus, stopped girls from wasting class time in the restroom. According to the student’s question, the truth is quite the contrary. This student said, “The girls will be in the bathroom however long they want because the mirrors were never the problem.” It seems that removing the mirror in the girls' restrooms only made the girls more creative in finding other ways to check themselves out. So if you're a girl, or boy, trying to think of a better solution than your iPhone camera, you’re in the right place.

Unfortunately, after I asked DeJesus if the mirrors would be back, he answered, “Not in the near future, no.” I could sit here and talk about how it’s not fair, and it’s a restroom, with all the classic restroom components, except mirrors. However, that would not be a productive use of time, so, instead, here are some things you can use besides mirrors. For starters, there’s always your phone camera. I know it’s tiny, and definitely does not do your gorgeous face justice, but sometimes you have to settle for what you can get. Another idea, and probably my best idea, is collapsible mirrors. They’re about the size of an iPad and can be propped up on any flat surface. They’ll fit great in your backpack, hidden behind your computer or binder.

But who really cares anyway? Your eye makeup? It looks great. Your lips? Voluptuous and colorful. Your hair? Perfect, you should be on a L’oreal Paris commercial. I’m sure we can all agree that Hillcrest is a bit dictatorial sometimes, but that’s all the more reason for the student body to get creative, and find a way! Don’t give up just because they keep taking things away, do your own thing. Let’s go STUDENTS at Hillcrest, the most persistent of all.

 ASk h. Katrina

Q: Hey Katrina, is there any type of way the Hoco theme can be changed? Everyone in the school does not like it, and the days don't make any sense, like, “Dress up as someone you know?” That doesn't really make sense.

The homecoming theme this year is “Arcade dreams”...whatever that means. I’m assuming it’s video game themed, but it also may be games in general. If you’re confused, you’re not alone. Regardless, I regretfully cannot change the homecoming theme this year; however, I have come up with some solutions. The dress-up days, I'm assuming, didn’t spark a lot of inspiration for you guys, so I came up with ideas for you and your friends to try. WARNING: We could be wrong about the direction these themes were trying to point you, so proceed with caution. Take it or leave it, but I hope I could give some of you guys new motivation to participate.

1. GUESS WHO? - Dress as someone you know

This one was a little more open-ended than most which made it harder to decipher. I would say…dress up as literally anyone! Your friend, your neighbor, your teacher, your grandma, your dog, or take a little creative liberty and reimagine your boyfriend who constantly disappoints you! 

2. TWISTER - Each grade dress in their own color

Compared to the prior theme, this is incredibly straight-forward. Freshman, go yellow! Dress up as bananas, corn, cheese, ugh… just thinking about it makes me hungry for some Freshman. Sophomores are green, think turtles, dinos, and peas in a pod.  Juniors got blue, definitely the best color. Examples include, but are not limited to, butterflies, Uranus, poison dart frogs, and Windex® Original Glass Cleaner. Finally, Seniors are red. The best suggestion on this list is the northern red snapper. It’s a beautiful fish, native to northern Canada with a diet consisting of crab, shrimp and smaller fish. Dress your color from head to toe, or just paint your toenails!

3. PLAYER 1, 2, AND 3 - Team up with your friends and dress up as your favorite game group

If you’ve got friends, (and I mean IF) this is probably the section for you. I don’t have any friends, being a hurricane and all, so I’m not gonna be a lot of help here. You can dress up as any of your favorite video game duos or trios such as Mario and Luigi, Sonic and Shadow, or Link and Princess Zelda. Get creative with this one, go big or go home! All the way home, get outta here.

4. BATTLESHIP - HHS spirit wear to sink the Seagoville dragons

I’ve sunk a lot of battleships in my days, so I don’t think Hillcrest has what it takes. However, maybe with the help of school spirit, the football team will be inspired to crush Seagoville this season . Throw on your t-shirts, hoodies, sweatpants, face paint, bandanas, or anything you can find that’s red, white, or black. Let’s go Hillcrest...or something!

5. HOMECOMING -  Arcade Dreams

So we’re back to this nonsense. Sources say the dance will include neon and black light. If you want to stick out like a highlighter, go neon. Pink, blue, green, yellow, all fluorescent and baby barf like. However, do not feel obligated to be all neon. Many will be sporting beautiful gowns and flattering suits in normal, respectable colors. Who cares about a theme anyways? Maybe the real theme was the friends we made along the way! Let’s just have a good time and dance and sing and be kids. See you guys there!

https://www.eventbrite.com/e/trusthers-girls-night-in-tickets-1025079308807?aff=oddtdtcreator 

Ib thailand trip

This summer, a group of IB students from Hillcrest High School traveled to Thailand for a 10 day adventure. Among the travelers was Amaya Mims, whose experiences highlighted the amazing moments they shared. Upon arriving in Bangkok, the students were hit with intense humidity and heat. Although Amaya was worried about getting her luggage lost, she was relieved when her suitcase was within the weight limit and she could keep it close. 

“I was scared of having my bag lost,” she recalled. 

To stay comfortable in the heat, Amaya had some handy tips for others considering the trip.She bought maxi skirts while in Thailand, which helped her feel both comfortable and stylish and had some good advise. 

“Definitely bring an electric fan and lightweight clothing! The humidity is no joke,” Amaya said.

The trip offered a mix of bustling city life in Bangkok and peaceful experiences in the countryside which helped the students appreciate Thailand’s diverse scenery.

 “We spent our first and last days in Bangkok, and the rest in the countryside,” Amaya explained. “The city is busy and loud, while the countryside is quiet and serene.” 

At first, Amaya was worried she might feel lonely, but she quickly made new friends. 

“My fear of being alone disappeared. I made some new friends on the trip,” she said. 

Everyday included visits to beautiful temples where the group participated in morning prayers. While Amaya wasn’t religious, she found the prayers to be a calming way to start each day. Language wasn’t a big issue for the students, but one day, local students approached them to practice their English. Sometimes they used translation apps, but overall communication went smoothly. This friendliness from the locals made their trip even more enjoyable. 

” Most people knew a little English, so it wasn't hard to communicate,” Amaya said.

Amaya had some expectations about Thai culture, but one surprising fact caught her attention and deepened her appreciation for the culture around her. 

“They are in the year 2567 because their calendar is based on the death of Gautama Buddha,”  Amaya said.

Getting around Thailand was very easy for the group. They walked or took buses to explore. Amaya fondly remembered stopping at McDonald’s and discovering a special item on the menu, the Matcha Oreo McFlurry.

”It was my absolute favorite, and I wish it would come to the U.S,” Amaya said.

As the trip wrapped up, Amaya thought about what she would change if she could do it all over again. She cherished the memories of their adventurous ten days filled with cultural discovery. When they returned home, the IB students brought back more than just souvenirs, they returned with a richer understanding of the world. Amaya’s experiences in Thailand highlighted the spirit of exploration and growth that defines the IB Programme, making it a trip they would always remember.

LA LA LAND; A HEARTFELT ROMANCE

La La Land is a movie directed by Damian Chazelle who is known for his ambition to portray romance at its fullest. The movie is a cinematic masterpiece that beautifully blends romance, music, and ambition. The movie takes place in Los Angeles, California. The film stars Emma Stone as Mia and Ryan Gosling as Sebastian.  This film tells the story of Mia, an aspiring actress, and Sebastian, a devoted jazz musician, as they navigate the pretty and the ugly of their careers and relationship in Los Angeles. 

The movie’s cinematography does not fail to catch the watchers attention with its beautiful dreamlike sequences. Not to mention the soundtrack composed by Justin Hurwitz, is equally as enchanting. The musical will leave lingering lyrics in your mind with the songs “City of Stars” and “Another Day of Sun”.The lyrics capture the essence of hope, love, and the pursuit of dreams.  The film portrays the realistic setbacks of trying to achieve your dreams in Hollywood. The bittersweet ending is a reminder of the cost of chasing one's passions. The camera movements make the audience feel like they are part of the story. 

As Sebastian and Mia pursue their dreams, they face unavoidable choices that test their relationship. Mia focused on her career as an actress and Sebastians dedicated to opening his own jazz club, but are they willing to sacrifice their relationship to make this happen? Mia is set to follow in her aunt's footsteps and make a name for herself in the film industry and Sebastian's deep love for jazz drives him to create a place where the genre can thrive and be appreciated. 

La La Land is a captivating romantic musical that will leave you hooked. Mia and Sebastian's paths cross, and they fall in love, supporting each other through the pretty and ugly of pursuing their dreams. The compelling performance of Emma stone and Ryan Gosling won't disappoint. The movie is a blend of romance and the bittersweet reality of their careers. Whether you enjoy musicals, love stories, or just find peace in watching a movie, La La Land offers something special that will leave a lasting impression.

Good eats: Chicken tenders

Continuing on tradition from last year the Good Eats crew have returned with our forks and knives ready to rank nearby restaurants on an item from their menu. Wanting to dip our toes into the water before we took a dive the crew went to as per usual four places Canes, Sonic, Whataburger, and WingStop to try their tenders out for ourselves. Listed below, the Good Eats crew is proud to present our ranking that takes into account the wait time, quality of food, welcoming environment, and last but not least the overall atmosphere of each place.

 The first chain we went to see was Sonic and although they initially got our order wrong, the workers quickly corrected the mistake and brought the right order out so we could rate the food. At the price of $9.41 the chosen three piece tender meal came with the tenders, tater tots, and a mango sweet iced tea. The tenders themselves were surprisingly flavorful and of a higher quality than we initially thought they would be. However, for every ray of light there is also a shadow cast and in Sonic's case the shadow was the tater tots which were bland not even having a speck of salt on them. 

For our next stop we tried Wingstop. Known for their wings, Wingstop also offers boneless wings, sandwiches, and the star of this show, tenders. For starters, Wingstop’s vibe was immaculate and their customer service was over the roof. We were invited warmly into the restaurant and were even offered drinks on the house. To add on, Wingstop is the only food chain we tried that offered a variety of flavors. For $11.36, we opted for their zesty lemon pepper tenders. If their generosity wasn't already enough, the workers added an extra tender and ranch to go along with it. The lemon pepper was nicely seasoned, not too overpowering but just right. The zesty lemony flavor dipped in ranch just melted in your mouth leaving you wanting more and the complimentary drinks added bonus points to it. As per usual, eating at Wingstop was immaculate and the crew can’t wait to go back.

Moving to the next chain, we went to Whataburger and tried the three tender meal. The price came out to a total of $9.00. The overall atmosphere was warm and we received our food pretty quickly. But, like a lot of places, expectations were high and we were soon disappointed. To begin with, the packaging wasn't the best. It's as if we had ordered it to go instead of dine-in and both the tenders and fries were thrown into the box haphazardly with more or less half of the fries outside of the fry container. The taste was bland in comparison to the rest of the tenders and lacked overall flavor, seeming to rely on the variety of sauces to provide flavor to the tenders rather than enhance the tenders. 

The last restaurant we tried is none other than Raising Canes. Home of chicken tenders, Canes is the restaurant we had high expectations from that unfortunately did not exceed. Compared to the other tenders, Canes was not the worst one, however the tenders seemed to lack flavor. The spotlight of Canes is none other than their secret peppery tangy sauce, which truly added flavor to a somewhat bland chicken. We will say, Canes did not lie when they mentioned their chicken is made fresh. It truly does have some of the highest quality of chicken around. Their 3 finger chicken combo comes out to a surprising $9.23. To add on, Canes atmosphere is always something to look forward to, their retro baseball vibe and nostalgic music makes one feel as if they are revisiting their favorite hangout spot from their childhood. 

To conclude, and provide the information everyone came here for, here is the ranking. As a refresher since it's been a while, each crew member scores the food out of ten, then we combine the scores and put them in order. In last place with an overall rating of 17 out of 30 shocking tons of loyal fans is Whataburger with its overall lack of flavor. In third place we have 19 out of 30 points is Sonic with its flavorful tenders powering it out of fourth, but not enough to make top two. Then as the runner up only eight points behind first is Canes at 22 out of 30 with its signature sauce. In first place with a perfect score of 30 out of 30 is the chain, the myth, the legend, Wingstop with the perfect level of flavor along with great hospitality and a friendly atmosphere cementing its place as the best tenders out of the four.

Winner winner chicken dinner

Jinya ramen bar

For this edition of Good Eats, we’re excited to shine the spotlight on Jinya Ramen Bar, the newest gem at Preston Hollow Village (7949 Walnut Hill Ln, Unit 160, Dallas, TX 75230). We’d also like to extend a special thanks to our exceptional server, Joanna, who went above and beyond to accommodate our needs and enhance our dining experience.

The restaurant was pretty easy to find given the giant logo embedded outside the restaurant. As we enter the restaurant, a wave of warmth and savory aromas envelops you. The air is filled with the comforting hum of conversation and the sizzle of noodles in bubbling broth. The decor, a blend of modern minimalism and traditional Japanese elements, creates an inviting and chic ambiance. With each step, you're pulled further into the lively restaurant, excited to enjoy the delicious food and friendly vibe of this top-notch ramen spot.

We started the afternoon with wonderful pork gyozas as an appetizer with six gyozas on each plate. The total cost of the gyozas were $10.80 a price well worth it. After we had finished our appetizer, our wonderful server Joanna told us about a current store promotion where if you post the store on your instagram story you would get a free dessert on the house.

For our main courses, we sampled a variety of dishes. The Yuzu Shio Delight ($18.80) featured pork chashu, green onion, spinach, egg, and seaweed, but it was mostly broth with thin noodles. The Jinya Tonkotsu Delight ($18.80) shared the same toppings as the Yuzu Shio Delight, with the notable difference being thicker noodles for a heartier texture. For a spicier option, the Tonkotsu Spicy ($19.80) comes with pork chashu, spicy bean sprouts, and kikurage mushrooms, and offers three levels of heat: Mild, Spicy, and Hot. Finally, the Shrimp Wonton Ramen ($18.80) included shrimp, chicken wontons, green onion, and kikurage mushrooms, providing a delightful mix of flavors and textures. 

We were fortunate enough to try the Takoyaki, which cost $12.50 and included octopus, egg, mayonnaise, okonomiyaki sauce, chopped onions, and smoked bonito flakes. Alongside that, we enjoyed a dessert of Mochi, priced at $5.50, with flavors of green tea and chocolate. Both the Takoyaki and Mochi were complimentary thanks to our wonderful server. 

In conclusion, this top-notch ramen restaurant exceeded our expectations. All of these dishes offered a unique taste—one well worth. From the warm, inviting atmosphere to the standout service from Joanna, every aspect contributed to a great dining experience. Jinya ramen at Preston hollow village is truly a gem, delivering flavorful, high-quality dishes that leave a lasting impression.

BONES AND ALL; LOVE OF FULL CONSUMPTION AND ACCEPTANCE

 Bones and all is a movie directed by Luca Guadagninio who is known for his portrayal of love in deeper unconventional ways in his films. Bones and all is no exception. The movie takes place in Northern America. Our two main characters are Maren, a teenage girl and Lee, a young man. They both have a certain hunger, desire, and a calling to cannibalistic nature. Despite being cannibals they show the audience   even though they’re viewed and shut out as outsiders we all are still affected by beauty, terror, and good that love brings us.

       Maren has had cannibalistic urges since she was a little girl despite this her dad tries to help and support her because his love for his daughter is far more powerful. He puts in a huge effort to not have her have any accidents (giving to her hunger for human flesh) and make her have a “normal” life. Even with his efforts Maren finds a way to give in to her desires. One late night Maren sneaks off to a sleepover, where she has an accident as soon as her dad finds out they move to a different location per usual. When make it to a new area, Maren falls asleep and when she wakes up she finds her dad is nowhere to be found. All he left is important information like her birth certificate, some money, and a tape recorder. You could view her father leaving as a good thing for him after putting up with an adjectively horrible person due to her being a cannibal. I like to use this as an example of how bittersweet love is than him being “fed up” with his daughter. Her father has tried to do his best and in the tape recorder he still just wants her to resist her urges and despite this doesn’t seem to hold a grudge against his daughter. He understands that there’s nothing more that he can do and that this is a battle she has to fight alone. He has loved her and raised her all on his own and has always provided and protected her but there’s only so much that love can do. Sometimes you have to let go and this movie does a great job of showing just that.

        On a journey Maren finds herself in not only looking for her mother but also for herself unconsciously she finds a lot of people with her certain hunger. Lee being the main one and he joins her for the search of her mom. A great part about this movie is that the cannibals can identify each other and accept being outcast but they’re nothing but respectful towards each other and their loved ones. Lee for example still makes time for his family, but keeps his distance due to his tendencies but he still makes the effort to show that he’s there for them and loves them deeply. When Maren does find her mother who is committed to a psychiatric hospital. She does not want to have this urge and that she does not want to be like her mother. Later Lee reveals that his father was also a cannibal and tried to eat him, but he did it before he could. In this case the movie shows even the people you’re supposed to love. We can despise them and hate the idea of becoming them because we see their mistakes and how horrible they can be, which is something most people shy away from saying about someone who you're supposed to love.

       Towards the end there’s two important scenes in my opinion, one being before Maren confesses her love. Lee asked Maren if she thinks that he’s a bad person after explaining his story with his father which she replies by saying “all I think is that I love you”. Even though he does not want to give up his urges he does for her because he also loves her and his love overrides his other desire. Though you can say people like them may not deserve love. That is the twisted beauty love can be. So on they go they live in Michigan and live a normal life with jobs and share an apartment together. Earlier when I mentioned Maren had met a lot of people like her Sully is one of them. Sully is a man who has been following her, trying to convince her to be a partner by his side. For them to eat people together time and time again Maren has said no. One day Sully breaks into their apartment and holds her to knife point when Lee comes to him and Maren manages to kill him, but Lee is fatally injured. They both looked down on people who did eat bones and all and earlier scenes. Cannibalism is not only about eating someone in this case, It is so much more than the consumption. It is in their way a form of love because Lee will always be in Maren; it serves as a permanent reminder of their love. A full consumption of love for each other and the bitterness of their loss. 

        To me a movie that has you sit in silence for at least 10 minutes after you finish watching it is a good movie. It keeps you emotionally invested and makes you question your morals, stance on love. It shows the good, the bad and the ugly of love. It is best described how bittersweet love is how quick things can change and be there and also disappear. Bones and all is worth being consumed by.

MOnster Battles; Minimal Plot

"Godzilla x Kong: The New Empire" stomped into theaters on March 29, 2024, with a titanic $80 million domestic opening weekend and an additional $114 million overseas. Despite its May 14 digital release, the film continues to draw significant box office numbers, edging closer to the records set by Gareth Edwards' 2014 "Godzilla." Its strong performance has already eclipsed the global box office totals of its MonsterVerse predecessors, making it a standout entry in the franchise even amid mixed reviews.

Directed by Adam Wingard, who also directed "Godzilla vs. Kong," this latest installment plunges deeper into the lore of the MonsterVerse, exploring the mysterious Hollow Earth. Godzilla and Kong must once again join forces to face a new threat emerging from this subterranean world. While the film excels in delivering breathtaking action and visual spectacle, it falls short in narrative substance. IGN’s 6/10 review aptly describes it as a "textbook visual thrill ride," praising its thrilling sequences but noting its lack of deeper storytelling.

The MonsterVerse has always been about grandiose battles and larger-than-life creatures, and "The New Empire" does not disappoint in this regard. Godzilla and Kong's epic showdown with a new adversary provides the kind of blockbuster entertainment fans expect. However, the film’s plot often feels secondary to its action scenes, resulting in a story that lacks emotional resonance and depth.

Despite these shortcomings, the film’s success at the box office demonstrates the enduring appeal of these iconic monsters. The spectacle of Godzilla and Kong battling both each other and new threats continues to captivate audiences worldwide. With a sequel already in development, the MonsterVerse shows no signs of slowing down. Adam Wingard has hinted at potential directions for future installments, suggesting that the franchise still has plenty of stories to tell.

In conclusion, "Godzilla x Kong: The New Empire" delivers on its promise of thrilling monster action, even if it does so at the expense of a compelling narrative. Its box office success underscores the enduring popularity of the MonsterVerse, ensuring that fans will have much more to look forward to in the ongoing saga of Titans.

Match Point for "Challengers" : Movie review

"Challengers" is a sports drama movie that's been creating quite a buzz. The storyline revolves around the competitive world of tennis, but it's not just about the game. It dives deep into the lives of the athletes, exploring themes of ambition, rivalry, and personal growth. The director did a fantastic job balancing the on-court action with off-court drama, making sure the pacing is just right.

The cinematography is another highlight. It captures the intensity of the matches and the emotional moments with equal flair. And the acting? Amazing! The actors bring their A-game, delivering performances that make their characters' struggles and triumphs feel genuine.

What really sets "Challengers" apart is how it portrays the mental and physical demands of being a top athlete. It's not just about winning, it's about what it takes to stay at the top, the sacrifices made, and the pressure that comes with it.

And, of course, the soundtrack complements the film's mood perfectly, with tracks that amp up the excitement during the matches and underscore the more reflective scenes. Especially the last song they play at the end of the movie, “Challengers” by Trent Reznor and Atticus Ross, it puts the audience on their toes and amplifies their excitement and intensity of who will win the match point. 

Overall, "Challengers" serves up a gripping tale that's sure to resonate whether you're a sports fan or not. It's a film that keeps you engaged from the first serve to the final point. Even though some people may believe the ending felt incomplete, Luca Guadagnino, the director intended for that specific ending in order for the story to come full circle.

Next stop: college, beyond- seniors' journey begins

Refreshing your Online Safety

I know, you've heard this spiel a million times since the first time you got a laptop in school. However, as our world continues to go online and we get older, this lesson is no less important. In fact, as scammers get more creative and more companies make their policies with smaller and smaller fine print, learning to protect yourself on your devices is more important that ever.

Cowboys curse

As the Dallas Cowboys navigate through the NFL playoffs, there's been a growing discussion surrounding the team's postseason performance and the emergence of what some are calling the "Cowboys Curse." While it's essential to approach such discussions with a healthy dose of skepticism, recent playoff disappointments have prompted fans and analysts to explore potential factors affecting the team's quest for Super Bowl glory.

According to insights from various sports analysts, including observations on major sports networks, the Cowboys' playoff challenges have reignited debates about the team's overall performance. Reports from these analysts suggest that the narrative of a curse has gained traction as the team faces setbacks in the postseason.

Recent history, including three straight 12-5 seasons followed by early playoff exits, has led to renewed discussions about the team's fortunes. Notably, former Eagles Pro Bowl receiver DeSean Jackson's remarks on Up & Adams have added fuel to the speculation. Jackson's comments reflect the sentiment that the Cowboys may be grappling with underlying issues beyond individual player performances.

Analyses from reputable sports media outlets, such as ESPN, delve into the historical context of sports franchises facing challenges. The article explores whether the Cowboys' recent struggles align with other instances in sports history where teams experienced prolonged periods of difficulty.

While the idea of a curse may seem far-fetched to some, the concept of sports curses has intrigued fans for generations. The article suggests that discussions around curses and jinxes often serve as narratives that add drama and intrigue to the unpredictable world of professional sports.

As we continue to witness the Cowboys' playoff journey unfold, the question remains: Are the team's recent challenges a result of coincidence and misfortune, or is there a more tangible explanation behind their postseason struggles? Only time will reveal whether the Cowboys can overcome these obstacles and reclaim their status as contenders for the coveted Super Bowl title.

It's crucial to approach these discussions with an analytical mindset, considering various factors that contribute to a team's success or setbacks. While the idea of a curse may capture the imagination, a comprehensive assessment of on-field dynamics and strategic decisions is necessary to understand the full picture of the Cowboys' playoff puzzle.

REVIEWING AMERICA'S MOST POPULAR COOKIES