Your Magazine Vol. 1 Issue 2: October 2011

Letter from the Editors We could not be more satisfied with the number of students who have shown interest in this publication over the past month. We have had the opportunity to collaborate with Emerson's AEPhi and Fashion Society, as well as our campus favorite: Four Burgers.

It is a huge honor to be working with such great organizations, people, and businesses.

This issue we made it a priority to get as many creepy, scary and just plain festive articles as possible to help get every one in the mood for one of the Emerson community's favorite holidays: Halloween.

Use us as your guides for this month's activities, trends, and pop culture.

We are also very pleased to announce our goal to be in print by the end of this semester. Continue reading, sharing, and enjoying Your Magazine to help us meet our goals!

About Your Editors

As always, Your Magazine is made by students for students to provide them with the content Olivia Moravec is a double they (and we) want to read about. As long as you major in Print & Multime- keep reading, we'll keep growing. dia Journalism and Marketing Communications, and will graduate this June.

Her pet bunny's name is Pancake. She's a sucker for cinnamon rolls.

Kilian Webster is a Writing, Literature, and Publishing major of the class of 2013. She has a wonderfully prized lipstick collection. Some say she's a girl by day, but she's definitely a ghost by night.

Love, Olivia Moravec Kilian Webster Founder and Editor-in-Chief Assistant Editor

photo // Hope Kauffman. portraits // Pete Ivanecky.

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Looks

Date Spotlight

Ghosts

TO DIE

and Gravestones

By Matt Grossbart

FOR

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By Taylor Meachum

Mr

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Emerson Neil McNeil

By Cecille Avila

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Couples

in Costume

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By Stephanie Miceli and Emily Tannenbaum

The Best Of

New York Fashion Week

By Tess Babbitt and Elijah Clarke Ginsburg

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STAFF Founder & Editor-in-chief: Olivia Moravec Assistant Editor: Kilian Webster Managing Editor: Krista Firkins Copy Editor: Alexa Zahares Copy Editor: Madeleine Andrews Creative Director: Pete Ivanecky Layout & Design Editor: Liz Cormack Layout Designer: Adriana DePalma Layout Designer: Danielle Poland Head Stylist: Bridget Little Head Stylist: Julia Libani Hair Stylist: Bonnie Ong Marketing Director: Callina Patterson Branding & Web design: Elijah Clark-Ginsberg Marketing: Roxi Fernandez Marketing: Hannah Wallace Marketing: Ean Williams Marketing: Crystal Yuen Marketing: Salvatore Shiavone Marketing: Lacey Russell Marketing: Lauren Dizazzo Marketing: Colleen Keeney Photo Director: Taylor Meacham Photographer: Hope Kauffman Photographer: Meredith Cohen Photographer: Nelson Ramm Photographer: Alex Fierro-Clarke Photographer: Mimi Vecchione

Fashion Section Editor: Emily Tannenbaum Fashion Writer: Madi Silvers Fashion Writer: Kelsey Leahy Fashion Writer: Elijah Clark-Ginsberg Fashion Writer: Tess Babbitt Fashion Writer: Haile Lidow Fashion Writer: Olivia Hoffman Fashion Writer: Devan Norman A&E Section Editor: Jamie Reysen A&E Writer: Amelia Viner A&E Writer: Taryn Balchunas A&E Writer: Bryan Chabrow A&E Writer: Madi Silvers A&E Writer: Molly O’Connor A&E Writer: Lorena Mora A&E Writer: Samantha Gordon A&E Writer: Emily Hayes Romance Section Editor: Stephanie Miceli Romance Writer: Vincent Scarpa Romance Writer: Madeleine Andrews Romance Writer: Matt Grossbart Romance: Tori Piskin Features Section Editor: Cecille Avila Features Writer: Christina Jedra Features Writer: Alexandra Parker Features Writer: Taylor Smith Features Writer: Liz Mantey

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Ta b l e o f Contents Stephanie Miceli Tori Piskin Matt Grossbart Stephanie Miceli & Emily Tannenbaum

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Kelsey Leahy Emily Tannenbaum Kelsey Leahy Tess Babbitt Elijah Clark-Ginsberg Hope Kauffman Taylor Meacham

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Monthly Playlist TV: Parks and Rec & Boardwalk Empire Are Back Upcoming Movies: Rum Diaries & Moneyball Featured Photographer & Artist: Tim Winn This Month We Love...New Girl Pepper and The Expendables at HOB Events Calender

Amelia Viner Jamie Reysen Molly O'Connor Madeleine Andrews Taryn Balchunas Madi Silvers

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Exploring the castle Fernandez's Fall Fitness Fall food favorites Next Stop: Coolidge Corner Mr Emerson 2011: Neil McNeil

Raymond Bellinger Roxi Fernandez Liz Mantey Cecille Avila

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Sex Toys: The Good, the Bad, and the Just Plain Scary You and Your High School Honey Date Spotlight: Boston Graveyard Tours Costume Special: Couples in Costume Item of the Month Fall Denim Thrift Find of the Month Fashion Week Trends- Lady’s Wear Fashion Week Trends- Men’s Wear Dainty Dining Looks to Die For

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The Good , SEX TOYS The Bad,

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text // Stephanie Miceli

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alloween: it’s the one night a year when girls can dress like a total slut and no other girls can say anything about it. And this year, it’s on a Monday, so if you’re really invested, you’ll have to come up with a costume your grandparents wouldn’t want to see for Thursday through Monday.

Not so fast. Some of us aren’t so... adventurous... with our costumes. So if you want to stay in because it’s too cold/ you think Halloween is lame/ don’t have a costume anyway, there’s no shame in staying in.

Megan Andelloux, certified sexologist at Brooklinebased Good Vibrations, says, “If God didn’t want us to masturbate, our hands wouldn’t fall where they do.”

Of course, if you’re new to the world of self-stimulation, you might need a little guidance. These sex toys, which Andelloux frequently introduces on her nationwide tours, will walk—err, pleasure—you through the process:

BEGINNER

the just plain scary

INTERMEDIATE

Vanity Vr10 Bunny: If you come from the Samantha Jones school of thought, a vibrator by the name of “Rabbit” probably won’t impress you; you’ll need something called a “Horse.” If you’re more of a Charlotte, on the other hand, you’ll never leave your room again after getting acquainted with this rechargable rabbit-style vibrator. Its most stunning features include a rotating shaft with textured ridges, light-up speed control buttons, and a charging station-which means, no batteries! Tip: when purchasing a vibrator, Andelloux suggests touching it to the tip of your nose. If you sneeze, she says, “it can’t be by the nose, can’t be by the cooch.”

Gun Oil: Don’t let it’s name intimidate you. Andelloux says Gun Oil has a lot of pros in comparison to leading brands such as KY, whose ingredients have the potential to destroy latex condoms or “create an open invitation for yeast infections!”

Its advantages are that it’s known for being odorless and tasteless, and lasts up to three times longer than its water-based lubricant counterparts.

Doggie Style Strap: This is a soft, padded, adjustable strap used to achieve deeper penetration during none other than Doggies Style. It’s 36 inches in length, so your partner will have plenty of room to work with.

Not only is it easy to operate, but using it with your clothes on is just as fun.

Tenga Egg Masturbation Sleeves: Peel, then play! Under the shell is an “ona cup,” which offers either a horizontal ripple or vertical “Twister” texture. In honor of Halloween, try the “Spider,” which is lined with a web pattern. Crack open the shell to reveal an “ona-cup.” These are used to stimulate the penis head or stretch the sleeve down the entire shaft.

Although they are intended to be used for just one “session,” Andelloux says they can be used for up to three if cleaned and handled correctly.

Spiritually-Inspired Dildos: Call it a “Divine Intervention.”

Andelloux typically warns those easily offended to look away before she takes this out of her trunk of treats. If you dare, spend the night with Jackhammer Jesus and Buddha’s Delight. You’ll be the talk of Confession tomorrow.

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where are you

you and your high school honey

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text // Tori Piskin

n recent years there has been one particular species that has taken over the booth section at restaurants, movie theater lines and free spaces in family frames: high school sweethearts. It’s easy to spot this rapid growing species. They walk hand in hand while they gaze into one another’s pimply faces; him getting excited he finally has a reason to own a gun and she pondering what hair color their kids will have.

now?

As easy as one can learn the alphabet, one can assume these students DO NOT speak to their exes.

Call it what you want, a cuddle buddy or just a friends with benefits, the rest of the population calls this act A. Bootie. Call! These ladies referred to their status as the “in between phase” with their high school sweethearts. We all know when this act happens. You went home for a weekend for your grandpa’s eightieth birthday only to be reminded the good old days with your high school boyfriend. You give him a friendly text of “hey what’s up” and next thing you know you’re sneaking him into your house and yelling at him for waking the dogs. The next day you go back to college as if it never happened. You go back to stalking your ex’s tagged photos on Facebook, calling every girl a whore, slut, or fat.

Another species, some would call “people watchers”, which I am proud to admit I am a part of, mumble under our breath some nasty comment that is coming half from jealousy and the other half from our own experiences of first love. I was once that high school girl in love, until I ended it the second day of freshman year.

Maybe it was the fact that my boyfriend didn’t know there were Russian spies in America or the fact he once lost my father’s two hundred dollar helmet on a romantic bike ride, but whatever caused me to end it I realized there are many other college students who also thought they’d end up like Cory and Topanaga from Boy Meets World. I asked my fellow korky, but colorful and outspoken Emersonians “You and Your High School Honey: Where are You Now?”

But there are those few individuals that are still with their high school sweethearts.

Similarly to grandparents celebrating their 60th anniversary, these special individuals are still madly in love, but this time without the acne or parents wandering around the house making sure no “humping” and “thrusting” is taking place. These people do not need the satisfaction of the drunken college hook ups and are content with being with the same person, as long as they get some alone time to skype. So the next time us people watchers want to make a snarky comment, look them right in the eye and say, “Two years, four months and 30 seconds down!

Only fifty more years to go!”

My curiosity and tendency to put people on the spot led me to ask them if they were in love.

I was agitated as they laughed at my genuine question, thinking I was trying to lighten the mood. I realized the laugh could have been a way to fight back the tears. It is understandable that this question could arouse some old pent up feelings, but the term jerk, prick and ass-hole is an understatement toTo keep this article Pg-13 I will let readers have some fun trying to figure out what words are behind the hidden stars: ***Wad, ***head, **Nugget, The ***** Asshole Whose Name Cannot Be Said”, and my personal favorite, ultimate vagina.

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OCTOBER DATE SPOTLIGHT

text // Matt Grossbart photo // Michael Blanchard

Ghosts & Gravestones

Looking for something fun to do this Halloween?

How about taking a ghost tour?

I know, at first it sounds like the kind of thing you would do on a family vacation if you only brought your lame cousins, but I promise – and hear me out on this one – Boston’s Ghosts & Gravestones tour is a fun way to spend an October night out. It also provides an evening of kitschy fun if you’re looking to plan an unconventional date.

Ghosts & Gravestones, located on the waterfront near the New England Aquarium, takes you on a trolley tour of several of Boston’s graveyards. Your guide for the tour is – what else – a ghost, who fills you in on his or her colorful backstory as the trolley takes you to your first stop.

You’ll also be treated to stomach-churning facts like the staggering number of bodies buried pretty much anywhere and everywhere in the city, which chillingly explains the hilly nature of The Boston Common. If you’re lucky, you’ll also get to hear about the book bound in human skin currently on display at the Boston Athenaeum.

If you’ve brought a date, stories like these provide ample opportunities to lean in and hold them closer – only to make sure that they’re not too scared, of course. However if that goes well, the two of you could stop by the Boston’s most haunted hotel, the Omni Parker House, after the tour is finished. If you do, I would recommend avoiding floors two, three, and – well, maybe it’s just better if you go home and sexile your roommate instead.

Though you should expect plenty of stares you get from passerby on the walking portions, that’s part of the experience! It’s not every day that you see something like a ghostly bride with a nasty neck wound and skin that makes a paper plate look tan walking through the Boston Common talking about public executions. The tour guides keep the proceedings fun and entertaining, and they pepper in enough dirty jokes throughout the course of the evening to make sure the whole thing doesn’t feel too PG-rated.

Once you arrive at each graveyard, your guide will tell you about the history of each site, which is actually the most entertaining aspect of the tour. Your guide will share some stories about those laid to rest there, like the preacher’s wife buried in Copp’s Hill Cemetery in a tomb full of sailors, which is said to be her husband’s way of memorializing her... let’s just say, “active social life,” and love of seamen while she was still among the living. These are the things romantic Halloweens are made of.

In between graveyard visits, your guide will tell you tales of Boston’s rich history of hauntings, mass murderers, and general crazies, like the nurse at Mass General Hospital who racked up a body count that could place her among the most prolific serial killers of all time, and of course, the Boston Strangler.

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Item of the Month

M E H y a M i Max

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e all know the time well; beach bums turn to studious scholars, summer breezes turn to falling leaves, and... (cue suspense) skimpy frocks transition to cozy layers.

Who doesn’t love the crisp fall air, and every fashionistas true craving, a new fall wardrobe.

I know, I know. It can get expensive to stay up to date with the latest crazes but the best advice I can give to my other fashion fiends on (and off) Emerson campus is to stick with pieces that easily transition through the year.

maxi mayhem has struck the heart of Boston and surrounding cities alike. But, how does this simple and girly piece transition from season to season? Wear them in summer with gladiators and glitzy gems or, for the approaching months of snow and slush, pair with ankle boots, a chunky scarf and fitted jean jacket. Trust me, stylish doesn’t always have to come attached with a golden ticket. •

My latest obsession you may ask? Let me give you a little hint...longer hemlines, flowy fabrics, a variety of colors, patterns and designs... yup, you guessed it. Maxi dresses.

Listen here Emersonians,

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text // Kelsey Leahy photos // Alex Clarke

couples in costume text // Stephanie Miceli and Emily Tannenbaum

Sorry Party City, but the Plug and Socket costume duo is just wrong. Attempting to stay classy on Halloween can be a New Year’s resolution on its own, but these pop culture-inspired costumes will at least have people laughing.

Don and Betty Draper Pro: Every guy has a suit.

Con: Every guy will be Don Draper.

Pro: This costume is a godsend for the more conservative female.

Con:You’ll have to wear stockings.

Snooki and The Situation Con: Guys will think your girlfriend is a whore.

Pro: Sometimes it’s fun to dress as a whore.

Pro: Fuzzy slippers. That is all.

Con: Everyone will pretty much assume your boyfriend is a douche, even when not in costume.

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Beyonce and Jay-Z Pro: They’re the ultimate power couple .

Con: Nobody could ever look as good as Beyonce.

Pro: All guys need are standard street clothes.

Con: Ladies, you might get mistaken for a cast member of “Teen Mom.”

Kermit and Miss Piggy Pro: The Muppets make everyone (with a soul) nostalgic. Bring in the compliments.

Con: Your guy might start adopting the Kermit voice.

Pro: For the ladies, this costume is like being a princess.

Con: Except… you’re a pig.

Taylor Swift and Kanye West Con: It’s getting old.

Pro: Who are we kidding, it’s still hilarious!

Pro: Kanye’s classic sweaters will be weather appropriate.

Con: We go to Emerson…don’t girls rock tousled hair and cowboy boots all the time anyway?

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text // Emily Tannenbaum photo // Mimi Viccione

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fall denim

t’s time to face the music. The temperature is dropping and we can no longer frolic around in our shorts, tiny skirts, or frilly dresses. We know it can be hard to let go of your carefree summer looks and shift into your more put together layered ensembles, but never fear… DENIM is here! And we’re not just talkin’ jeans! All sorts of denim pieces are hitting it big this fall and can easily make your summer pieces into autumn stunners!

THE DENIM JACKET > You bought all of those cute floral dresses for summer, so don’t let them go to waste! Pair them with tights and a cleancut denim jacket! You’ll be turning heads in class and all over Boston!

STRAIGHTEN OUT > Straight, boyfriend, and skinny cropped cuts are the only ways to wear jeans. They will never go out of style, so you will always look cute.

NO COLORED JEANS Leave the neon and bright colored jeans to the 80’s and SAVE your soft pastels for spring!

Cool, dark washes in loose boyfriend and cropped cuts are the way to go this fall!

< DENIM ON DENIM We never thought this would be a thing again, but when you’re wrong you’re wrong. Just make sure to keep the washes dark and the shape form fitting! You’re brave enough! Give it a chance!

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< THE DENIM SHIRT Don’t let your maxi skirts and tank tops sit in your closet until spring!

Throw a loose fitting denim shirt over either look to give it that autumn edge!

thrift find of the text // Kelsey Leahy photos // Alex Clarke

month

What we found Checkered pants ($35), blue oxford ($35), red knit button down sweater ($45), suspenders ($15) and bowtie ($25) all found at Bobby from Boston on 19 Thayer Street.

Feeling like your ensemble is lacking a little pizzazz and flavor lately? I’m talking to the male population out there walking the streets of Emerson College. Well, if you feel your fall wardrobe needs to be spiced up a bit and don’t want to spend a lot of dough, check out what I found at Bobby from Boston. This vintage vault is filled with preppy shoes, clothes, hats, and accessories for both men and women.

I searched the racks and shuffled through the shelves of this vintage vault and found a look that’s smack dab in the middle of yuppie and collegiate (with a modern twist of course.) Each of these items are easily incorporated into one’s wardrobe. Take the pants for example. You may think that these pants stand out far too much to wear often, but by switching up the colors of the oxford and sweater, you can wear these pants much more that you may think.

These items are great for the upcoming colder months. This classic yet bold look is one that is sure to catch an eye (or two). •

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SPRING 2012 TRENDS

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AUTHOR // TESS BABBITT

text // Tess Babbitt

If you feel the need to step away from making the !"#$%&'(!)$"*"+,(-)'.)),(,/%01'2(,%3*)(/,!(*)42( 5"''),('1"*(6$'+-)37(&++5(,+(8%3'1)39(:1)(,).(*;3",0( <=><(&",)*(1/?)(-)),(3)?)/&)!7(/,!('1)2@3)(8%&&(+8( delightful tricks and treats. So set aside the carmel /;;&)*(/,!(!/2!3)/A(/-+%'(*;3",0(/8')3,++,*(/,!( your future favorite every- day costumes.

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1. “Tailoring and Transparency” Much like the mullet, this new trend is an easy way to combine office chic with a more casual, flirty feel. According to Vera Wang, spring was all about “tailoring and transparency”.

Structured jackets and tops made of a soft sheer material are the perfect paradox for spring.

3 2. “Roaring 20’s” This new 20’s inspired trend will have you wishing you had a time machine. Short dresses with beads, strands of pearls, and long almost-not-there silk gowns are a fairytale waiting to happen. To avoid looking like you missed the memo that it’s not Halloween, mix a few of these pieces sparingly into your wardrobe this spring to add a touch of whimsy.

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3. “Color on Color” Try matching different shades of the same color on top and bottom. Whether you’re creating an ensemble of all reds or creams, careful planning is needed with this trend to avoid looking like you got dressed in the dark. But if done correctly, this trend can be manipulated to make a bold statement.

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4. “Lite Brites” The heavy dark metallics of fall have snuck their way into spring. But this season, they’re popping up in brighter colors such as gold and light blue. A happier way to sparkle in the warm weather, these lighter colors will brighten up your mood and make you stand out in a crowd.

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5. “On Safari” Living in the concrete jungle of Boston, sometimes it’s necessary to unleash your pride. Rock the streets in these new safari inspired looks. Strong animal prints and striking silhouettes will give you the boost to wrestle any challenge that comes your way.

6. “Clutches” Spring is an on-the-go season, which is why there’s no surprise that clutches are appearing as the number one accessory choice on the runway. Small and compact, there’s no end to how many of these little delectable purses you can own. So stock up on some versatile textures and colors, grab your favorite one, and head out the door!

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MEN’S TRENDS TO WATCH text // Elijah Clarke-Ginsburg AUTHOR // ELIJAH CLARK-GINSBERG

Another summer has come and gone and though we’ll soon be saying “hello” to a solid six months of rain, wind, snow and ice (why do we live in Boston again?), fashion designers are already looking forward to next spring. Last month, some of the world’s most fashionable people gathered in New York to take in menswear collections from Michael Kors, Michael Bastian, Tommy Hilfiger and dozens of other designers. What has the fashion world been working on for spring of 2012? Bright colors and double-breasted suits are just a few trends seen across various collections.

Formerly relegated to Gordon Gekko and his ilk in the 80s, double-breasted suits have been making a comeback for several seasons, and it seems that they’ll be more popular than ever next spring. Rather than the boxy varieties that were popular three decades ago, these renditions are just as svelte and tailored as the single-breasted suits going down the runway. When wearing a double-breasted suit, remember to always keep the jacket buttoned – even while sitting – because the added fabric causes it to hang unflatteringly when open.

Even if a new suit isn’t what you’re looking for, there is plenty of double-breasted love to go around. The classic trench coat is a failsafe piece of spring outerwear, and several designers adapted the peacoat – traditionally a fall/winter staple – into a spring piece by swapping out dark wool for trench-colored cotton. If double-breasted outerwear isn’t your style either, try a lightweight double-breasted cardigan as a versatile spring layering piece.

Spring is always the time to add a bit more color to your wardrobe, but designers are taking it to the next level for 2012.

Bright, amped-up colors played a prominent role in collections by everyone from Tommy Hilfiger to Steven Alan to Michael Bastian. Hunter orange received particular attention and graced just about every garment imaginable. Whatever your comfort level, there’s a way to add a pop of color to your spring wardrobe. Ready to dive right in with aqua pants like those from J. Crew or those bright purple boots by Yigal Azrouël? Well then, ,\more power to you. Prefer to ease into it? Try a bright, bold polo like those from Tommy Hilfiger or a breezy summer scarf à la Michael Kors. For a unique and subtle way to incorporate some color, throw on some shoes with a bright contrast sole like those from Richard Chai Love or Tim Hamilton. What’s the key to pulling off color without looking like a clown? Surround one bright piece with great neutrals like navy, khaki, white and light grey.

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DAINTY DAINTY DINING DINING !"#$%&'()*+,-$.'()*!&-/*+&%0.*1-%$'2%"

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Looks to Die for Photos//Taylor Meachum Models// Philip Trampe, Alex Pulido, Cesar Munez, Annie McAndrews, Emilie Mirvis , and Veleria Navarro

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text // Molly O’Connor

Directed by: Bruce Robinson Starring: Johnny Depp, Aaron Eckhart, Richard Jenkins, Amber Heard, Giovanni Ribisi, Michael Rispoli In theatres October 28th.

The Rum Diary, based on Hunter S. Thompson’s novel of the same name, chronicles journalist Paul Kemp’s experience in 1950’s Puerto Rico. Kemp (Johnny Depp) leaves New York to take a job at The San Juan Star and quickly gets himself caught up in a real-estate scheme with wealthy American, Sanderson (Aaron Eckhart). While many aspects of the story would seem to dictate a more serious tale, director Bruce Robinson takes a lighter stance on most of the events that detail Kemp’s Puerto Rican adventure. And an adventure it is—Kemp’s involvement in the scheme leads to a dangerous flirtation with Sanderson’s girlfriend, Chenault (Amber Heard), a trip to Rio’s Carnival, and the exploration of a beautiful island.

Robinson, director and writer of the zany dark comedy Withnail and I, proves that he was right to take a lighter tone here—the movie is truly funny. There’s a diversity of humor that can be hard to find in most comedies. Robinson uses an abundance of sight gags that come across as more sincere than stupid—a particular driving scene comes to mind. He also deftly utilizes Depp’s comedic skills —most

apparently, his facial expressiveness. As the drunken writer Kemp, Depp subtly weaves hilarity into simple lines with a mere change of intonation or a well-placed beat.

Eckhart serves the role of Sanderson well, despite thin writing.

There isn’t much middle ground for Sanderson between explicit smoothness (something Eckhart excels at) and violent anger, but Eckhart holds himself steady in the balance between the two. As Chenault, Heard certainly looks the part of the 50s bombshell, but her line delivery is often stilted, and her range seems to go from fine to bad.

Most of the great dialogue is between Depp and Michael Rispoli, who plays Kemp’s buddy, Salas.

Rispoli is a character actor best known for his role on The Sopranos, but he shines here as Salas. His line delivery is pitch perfect and Salas’ nervous jauntiness is a delight. Giovanni Ribisi is another standout, assuming the role of Salas’s roommate Moberg, whose alcoholism makes Kemp look like a lightweight.

Moberg has a lot of dialogue, but Ribisi is especially impressive in the way of what he does physically. He acts his alcoholism with

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his whole body and face, his walk and growl so potent that you feel like you should be able to smell the booze when he enters a scene.

The Rum Diary is certainly worth a look – I would add, “especially for fans of Johnny Depp,” but I think that constitutes a huge chunk of our audience. The film has much to offer entertainmentwise, despite a somewhat lackluster ending and a strange disparity between writing quality from character to character. This one’s also worth checking out if only for one of the better cinematic tripping scenes in recent years. •

Grade: B

text // Molly O’Connor

Peter Brand (Jonah Hill), a character based on real life number cruncher Paul DePodesta, introduces Beane to a new way of analyzing players. Beane decides to build his Now playing. team around the strategy, referred to as “Moneyball.”

Moneyball is a baseball movie. Moneyball retains the spirit of a It’s a numbers movie. But it’s also sports movie, but it relies less on the entertaining, understated and acces- inspirational tropes we’ve come to sible. Capote director Bennett Miller expect from the genre. Instead, the and screenwriters Steve Zaillian film is about what it means to win and Aaron Sorkin have succeeded (or not), to succeed against odds (or here on multiple planes, turning out not) and to have worth. a subtle drama with the heart of a

Beane searches for his own sports movie. This was a movie that worth as both a general manager nearly didn’t get made, veering in and a divorced father. Miller sucand out of production with different ceeds in connecting the two, especreative teams before finally settling cially during moving scenes where down, with Miller at the helm.

Beane’s daughter Casey is concerned

Based on Michael Lewis’ about his job security. Casey’s conbook of the same name, Moneyball cern sends Beane into attack mode, follows real-life Oakland Athletics instilling in his team of misfits the general manager Billy Beane (Brad motivation to prove that they’ve Pitt), as he tries to keep the monbuilt something that works—someetarily challenged A’s on par with thing that can change the business of teams that have multi-million dollar baseball. payrolls. For those of you who aren’t The script itself sparkles. It baseball fans, this means that some successfully distills baseball statisteams have a lot more money to tics into understandable lingo – “His spend on players than others, result- OBP is incredibly high” turns into ing in a huge disparity between the “He gets on base a lot.” Most requality of rich and poor teams. markably, the writing remains subtle and low-key. The closest we come to Directed by: Bennett Miller Starring: Brad Pitt, Jonah Hill, Philip Seymour Hoffman, Chris Pratt, Robin Wright

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an inspirational speech is when Beane tells the team matter-offactly, “You don’t look like a winning team, but you are one. Now win.”

This is a great role for Pitt, showcasing many of his more refined acting skills — charm, frustration and generally being a smartass come easy to him. He’s great in a drama that doesn’t require too much drama. Hill is terrific as Brand, in a role that departs from the silliness of Judd Apatow-land. The character’s early nervousness is palpable, and Hill reads off complicated formulas and advanced baseball statistics with little hesitation and much believability. Philip Seymour Hoffman does excellent work as Art Howe, the manager of the A’s. Frustrated with Beane, but more jaded than anything else, Howe’s weariness is visible through Hoffman’s eyes.

Moneyball is beautifully shot, well-written and – for the most part – avoids the cheesy traps of a sports movie. Baseball fans and non-baseball fans alike will enjoy it; the former will get the chills when Brand talks about an undervalued player, and the latter will appreciate Miller’s take on what it means to be a winner. •

Grade: A-

‘Parks and Recreation’ (premiered Sept. 22) Quirky parks department protagonist Leslie Knope (Amy Poehler) is back, and she’s as determined as ever to bring big things to the town of Pawnee. There’s no reason not to watch this show; it’s armed with clever quips and a slew of colorful characters that are as strangely relatable as they are downright ridiculous.

This season, Knope is gearing up for the campaign trail, in pursuit of public office; only time will tell who she’ll be up against. But the real focus of this season seems to be the one man who just wants to be left alone: Parks and Recreation director Ron Swanson (Nick Offerman). Poor Ron will be plagued by –not one, not two – but all three of the Tammys who’ve made his life a living hell. Ron’s insufferable second wife Tammy 2 (Megan Mullally) is back for another season, but she’s the least of Ron’s troubles; his first wife Tammy 1 (Patricia Clarkson) and his mother Tammy 0 (Paula Pell) are headed for Pawnee, and they’re ready to wreak havoc.

New episodes: Thursdays at 8:30 p.m. ET on NBC.

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tune in text // Jamie Reysen

‘Boardwalk Empire’ (premiered Sept. 25)

The politics, corruption and violence of a Prohibition-era Atlantic City returned Sept. 25 for a second season. The writers of this Emmy-winning HBO drama have woven a web of interconnected characters and suspenseful plot lines that have become all the more tangled since the show’s debut. Last season’s finale left viewers with so many questions: How will the maniacal, God-fearing Nelson Van Alden (Michael Shannon) deal with the news that he has impregnated seductress Lucy Danziger (Paz de la Huerta)? Now that Margaret Shroeder (Kelly MacDonald) is back with Nucky Thompson (Steve Buscemi), will he be able to keep her and her children safe from the barrage of hit men looking to destroy him? Will the gruesome-looking but loveable Richard Harrow (Jack Houston) ever find happiness? And will Martin Scorsese ever direct another episode? You’ll have to tune in to find out.

New episodes: Sundays, 9 p.m. ET on HBO.

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“Don’t Mess Up My Baby” The Black Lips

playlist // Olivia Moravec

“This is my favorite song off of Black Lips’ new album, Arabia Mountain.

Besides Black Lips’ catchy guitar riffs and dreamy bass lines, the track’s quirky lyrics remind listeners of the old Black Lips (Let it Bloom, Good Bad Not Evil). However, the group’s new, refined sound adds a muchneeded makeover to the under-produced, low-quality recordings sometimes associated with these Atlanta natives.”

– Madi Silvers

“Wildfire” – SBTRKT, featuring Little Dragon

“This track is off London DJ/producer SBTRKT’s self-titled album, released in late July. It features a mix of clean, yet glitchy, beats and Little Dragon’s tantalizingly soulful vocals.”

– Madeleine Andrews

“Why I Love You” - Kanye West and Jay-Z, featuring Mr. Hudson

“If Jay-Z and Kanye had a baby, its laugh would sound a little bit like this song, which sounds like an exasperated confession of love. Mr. Hudson’s voice in the background contrasts well against the clever rap lyrics.”

– Amelia Viner

“Body and Soul” – Tony Bennett and Amy Winehouse

“The late Amy Winehouse croons with the legendary Tony Bennett on this classic track, as part of his Duets II album, released Sept. 20. If you’re still mourning Winehouse’s death (I know I am), give Back to Black a break and listen to the last song ever recorded by the jazz genius.”

– Jamie Reysen

“O Sleep” - Lisa Hannigan, featuring Ray Lamontagne

“As if there could be a more perfect pair for a haunting lullaby.”

- Taryn Balchunas

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Artist Spotlight: Tim Winn

text // Madeleine Andrews

and the “Weasel Problem”

Two people dressed as weasels, donning animal-print leggings and masks made of paper, prance across a sand dune in Provincetown, Mass. This is the opening scene of a short film created by and starring artist couple Tim Winn and Zehra Khan, who spent a week dressed this way, while living in a Provincetown dune-shack. According to Winn, the weasels function as animal-human protagonists who are forced to confront their relationship issues when they’re stripped of modern day societal comforts, like electricity.

The film will be featured in “The Weasel Problem,” Winn’s multimedia installation, to be exhibited at UMass Lowell from Oct. 3-28. The exhibition will also include photographs and drawings on paper.

At 40, Winn’s career as an artist has just begun. The St. Boltoph Club Foundation – a supporter of up-and-coming New England artists – recently announced Winn as a recipient of their 2011 Emerging Artist Award grant, which he says he’ll put toward a camera and lighting equipment, so as to better produce and document his work.

While Winn enjoys working in film, he prefers expressing himself through paper drawings, and he uses the seemingly simple art form in unexpected ways. “I love paper,” he says. “It’s all about what a drawing can do.” Winn pushes the limits of this twodimensional medium by first creating the drawings on paper, then blowing them up and reproducing them as large paper structures, bringing them to life in the 3-D realm.

Winn’s affinity for paper began at a young age. His artist parents raised him in Methuen, Mass., where his mother drew him replicated cartoon characters and his engineer father made him technical drawings, using pens, rulers and stencils. Winn has been drawing for as long as he can remember, but he didn’t originally set out to become an artist in that capacity.

At the age of 18, Winn entered NYU’s screenwriting program at Tisch School of the Arts, in hopes of becoming a filmmaker. Living in New York in the ‘80s allowed him to experience graffiti and pop art firsthand—the streets were covered with the work of notables, like Jean-Michel Basquiat and Keith Haring.

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Winn says there are parallels between his work and Haring’s: “[Our work is] playful and it’s spontaneous and it’s not precious … it has a social awareness, but it doesn’t really beat you over the head with it.”

When Winn began making films at NYU, he says he produced content that wasn’t well photographed. To improve his grasp on the aesthetic aspect of filmmaking, Winn took a leave of absence to study at the School of the Art Institute of Chicago (SAIC). He never returned to NYU; a traditional photography class inspired him to forego film school, and he earned a BFA in photography at SAIC instead.

Since then, Winn held a variety of professions he describes as noncreative, from sports photographer to restaurateur. About four years ago, he decided it was time to take art off the backburner and entered MassArt’s low-residency MFA program at the Fine Arts Work Center in Provincetown. He’s currently working toward a BFA, in addition to working as an artist-in residence at Provincetown’s Gallery Evha.

Winn says his experience in MassArt’s program inspires one of his guiding principles — creating work that’s accessible and likeable. “The product of being in an intensive master’s degree program is that there’s so much elitist banter and jargon and theory that I think my knee-jerk reaction was to make work that people could understand readily and form their own opinions on, instead of needing it to be explained to them,” he says.

Winn, who vacationed in Provincetown as a child, says it’s a perfect combination of setting and academic environment. “I always equated it with this idyllic little paradise,” he says. “It’s at the very tip of the world, and the light and landscape are beautiful, but it also has an incredible cosmopolitan feel to it.” He’s not the only artist who’s been inspired by Provincetown – it’s one of the oldest artist communities in the country and has been home to a slew of visual and literary legends, including Willem de Kooning, Jackson Pollock, Tennessee Wil-

liams and Kurt Vonnegut.

Both Winn and Khan will be at the UMass Lowell opening of “Weasel Problems” on October 5th (3-5 p.m.) for an artist talk and reception that’s free to the public. Don’t have the time to trek to Lowell? Check out Carroll and Sons Art Gallery in the South End, which displays a portfolio of Winn’s work as part of its Boston Drawing Project. •

Top: A publicity photo of Khan and Winn for their short film, “The Weasel Problem.” Right: Hoe, 2011, mixed media.

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Left: The Witch and the Whale, 2011, mixed media. Pictured on display at the Provincetown Art Association and Museum. Above: G, 2011, mixed media.

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This MonthWe Love

text // Taryn Balchunas

After I heard about Fox’s new comedy “New Girl,” I kept accidentally calling it “Funny Girl.” No, it’s not a TV show adapted from the Oscar-nominated 1968 film starring Barbra Streisand. But it does, in fact, star a very funny girl.

Zooey Deschanel takes on the role of Jess, a newly single woman who moves in with three straight guys after her longtime boyfriend cheats on her. Jake M. Johnson, Max Greenfield and Damon Wayans Jr. play Jess’s roommates who offer to help her get back into the dating game—something she hasn’t had experience with in quite some time.

In real life, Deschanel is the envy of every woman and man. She’s hitched to Death Cab for Cutie lead singer, the musical genius Ben Gibbard. Deschanel herself is a talented actress and musician, who shows off her enticing personality in both romantic comedies and through the tunes she croons in her band, She & Him.

Zooey isn’t the only Deschanel on primetime TV. Her older sister, Emily, stars in the Fox hit series, “Bones.” The two are signed on to star in shows on the same network, but in drastically different roles. While Zooey plays a quirky, single girl next door, Emily will tackle a seventh season playing forensic anthropologist Dr. Temperance “Bones” Brennan. Will “New Girl” be nearly as successful as “Bones?” I think so. •

: y h W s ’ e Her •

1. Zooey is already a successful actress with a huge following. 2. Jess is a relatable

character for the funny, lovable, adorable and quirky young women of the world (like us

Emersonians!) 3. The plot could allow for interesting relationships between Jess and the other characters—from her roommates, to her dates, to her model friend, Cece (played by Hannah Simone). 4. Though Jess might not be the most original character, Zooey brings her to life with a fervor that other actresses wouldn’t be able to pull off. As my high school acting teacher always said, “Make it come from a real place.” And Zooey should have no trouble doing just that.

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Resurrecting the spirit of summer with:

The Expendables and Pepper

text // Madi Silvers

The abrupt climate drop on Sept. 13 couldn’t impede the West Coast’s invasion of Boston. Signs of winter’s frigid tides actually seemed to fire up the crowd at House of Blues.

Eager for one last dance with the spirit of summer, New Englanders’ entrusted surf-inspired group The Expendables and Hawaiian rebel-rock band Pepper to do the job.

The doors opened as the sun began to set, and the wind (unsurprisingly) began to pick up. Fans may have come clad in winter apparel, but jackets quickly came off as hipsters cracked open their favorite lager: PBR. Then, Maryland’s revered reggae group Ballyhoo! took the stage, kick-starting a carefree energy that lasted all night.

Sunshine-yellow lights transformed the bleak venue into a Pacific Ocean beach retreat.

Red, yellow and green strobes projected across the insides of this makeshift island, painting the elated crowd vibrant Rasta hues. The Expendables, of Santa Cruz, Calif., played their expected hits, and they played them well. Though the group’s performance strayed little from a typical concert, lead vocalist and guitarist Geoff Weers brought an enthusiasm and charisma to the stage that instilled a sense of warmth and nostalgia in the audience. The band’s performance of their hit song “Bowl for Two” appeared responsible

for their standing ovation, an expression of overall satisfaction from the quartet’s set.

Unsurprisingly, Pepper stole the show.

After The Expendables’ routine performance, the Pacific Islanders offered fans a much-needed change of pace. From beginning to end, they kept the audience engaged, meshing music with funny moments; witty one-liners and perverted shoutouts punctured a perfectly blended set of old hits (flash back to middle school) and new singles.

Although Pepper played most of their songs to the tempo of their studio recordings, the ska/punk band gave a fresh perspective to some of their oldies by speeding up or slowing down the rhythm of the well-known tracks.

These rebels with or without a cause (you decide) afforded sweat-drenched concertgoers the opportunity to jump up and down, scream, shout and – well, just be a kid again. The “Kona Town”ers bestowed endless love on the Bean even after their high-energy, flawless set ended, encouraging fans to keep the party going after House of Blues closed for the night.

Pepper didn’t just revel in the audience’s cries of praise; the band consistently gave back to their fans the same enthusiasm that they so humbly accepted. Weers put it best, exclaiming that their level of gratitude toward the crowd promised to leave them “Boston hung over.” •

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October Boston

S T N EVE

OctoberEvents 3rd 4th 5th 6th 7th 8th 9th 10th 11th 12th 13th 14th 15th 16th

James Blake @ Paradise Rock Club, 7 p.m.

Diana Ross @ Hanover Theatre in Worcester, 8 p..m.

The Bangles @ Wilbur Theatre, 8 p.m.

Zed’s Dead @ Middle East Explosions in the Sky @ Orpheum, 7:30 p.m.

NOFX & Anti-Flag w/ Old Man Markley @ HOB, 6 p.m.

EOTO @ Royale, 8 p.m.

Ladytron @ Paradise Rock Club, 9 p.m.

Beats Antique @ the Dise, 8 p.m.

Bayside, Saves the Day, I am the Avalanche @ Royale, 5 p.m.

Mickey Avalon @ Middle East Hanson @ HOB, 7 p.m.

RJD2 @ Paradise Rock Club, 7 p.m.

Mindless Behavior @ HOB, 5 p.m.

Deadmau5 @ HOB, 7 p.m.

Deadmau5 @ HOB, 7 p.m.

Deadmau5 @ HOB, 7 p.m.

Boyce Avenue @ Royale, 6 p.m.

Deadmau5 @ HOB, 7 p.m.

Steve Miller Band @ Orpheum, 7:30 p.m.

Bush & Chevelle @ HOB, 5:30 p.m.

Spin Doctors @ Brighton Music Hall, 9 p.m.

Minus the Bear @ Royale, 7 p.m.

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17th 18th 20th

Blue October @ HOB, 7 p.m.

Thrice @ Royale, 6 p.m.

Kevin Devine @ Royale, 6:30 p.m.

STS9 @ HOB, 8 p.m.

Ra Ra Riot @ Paradise Rock Club, 8 p.m.

Neon Indian @ Brighton Music Hall, 9 p.m.

Sting @ Wang Theatre, 8 p.m.

Smashing Pumpkins @ Orpheum Theatre, 7 p.m.

21th

Amos Lee w/ Pieta Brown @ HOB, 7 p.m.

Portugal, The Man @ PAradise Rock Club, 8 p.m.

22nd

23rd Gym Class Heroes / The Dirty Heads @ HOB, 7:30 p.m.

Yelawolf @ Royale, 7 p.m. 24th Forward to Love Tour featuring: Ziggy Marley @ Paradise Rock Club, 7 p.m. 26th Ferry Corsten at Royale 9 p.m.

27th Pop Punk’s Not Dead Tour featuring New Found Glory @ HOB, 7:30 p.m.

Cyndi Lauper & Dr. John: From Memphis To Mardi Gras @ HOB 7 p.m.

Friendly Fires @ Paradise Rock Club, 8 p.m.

Duran Duran @ Wang Theatre, 8 p.m.

Star Slinger @ Brighton Music Hall, 9 p.m.

Saints & Sinners Tour feat. Between The Buried And Me @ HOB, 6 p.m.

Yellowcard @ Paradise Rock Club, 6:30 p.m.

The Sounds @ Royale, 6 p.m.

Rachel Yamagata @ Brighton Music Hall, 9 p.m.

Wale @ Paradise Rock Club, 7 p.m.

Pendulum (DJ set) at Middle East 35

28th 29th 30th 31st

Ethexploring

Castle

text // Raymond Bellinger photo // Pete Ivanecky

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I

t’s an intoxicating feeling being surrounded in every direction by a new and beautiful world. You find yourself smiling uncontrollably because of all the indescribable and breathtaking moments that make travel worth the effort. This is what I am currently experiencing. For the next three months I am studying in a 14th century castle in the Netherlands. This is my school. I live at Kasteel Well. I am an Emerson student.

The idea didn’t seem real to me. How could I possibly be moving to a faraway land and living in a beautiful castle? I would have the opportunity to study what I love while making some of what were sure to be the greatest memories of my life. Winning this fairytale lottery seemed surreal; so much so that upon arriving in The Netherlands, instead of looking around, I listened to my iPod and slept.

I awoke just as the village of Well came into view. Quaint cottages and small farm animals streaked past my window, looking every bit as though they had fallen right out of a Disney movie.

Then I saw the castle. It rose before me as if welcoming us through its massive gateway. Nothing shown to us in pictures had prepared me for this moment. I suddenly understood the hype; I finally understood the grandeur. In this moment, the fantasy became real. I had arrived and Kasteel Well was more than I could have ever asked for.

We are here to learn about other cultures and other ways of life. The fact that our campus is stunning is just an exceptional bonus. Simply being here for a few days has made me more excited for the next three months than I have been in such a long time. I am excited to meet new people. I am excited to learn things books could never teach me. I am excited to have the experience of a lifetime while at the same time working toward my future.

The funny thing is, since moving to the castle, my view of the future has changed. I have come to realize that this adventure never truly has to end. I never want to forget that determination can take me all sorts of places, from tiny villages to major cities or wherever else I set my sights.

From the next three months I hope to take as much out of this voyage as possible. I hope to make mistakes. I hope to laugh. I hope to get lost only to find my way again. I want to see the world. I want to learn. I want to gain perspective that will stay with me for the rest of my life.

This semester is sure to be more fun than I can conceive. It is frightening and intimidating, but at the same time wonderful and new. I hope to leave this experience with something fresh to bring to the table when I return to the home campus. What was once impossible to believe is now the reality I’m living.

Yes, it’s true. It’s real. It’s Kasteel Well. •

My first few days contained some of the most eye-opening moments of my life. I pedaled a bike through the twisting Dutch streets to soak in the local flavor, falling completely in love. I was in love with the small businesses, the beautiful scenery, the architecture, and the people. Especially the people. If you ever thought it was impossible to make 85 foreign college students welcome in your town, the residents of Well can prove you wrong.

The people of Well are delightful and seem genuinely glad to have us in their home for three months. They smile and wave as we pass by, help us find our way around, teach us Dutch phrases, and generally make us feel at ease. The residents’ attitudes toward us made me realize something very important: The castle is only a small fraction of the experience. Interaction with the townspeople and Europeans as a whole is what I will truly take away.

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othing shown to us in pictures “hadNprepared me for this moment.

I suddenly understood the hype; I finally understood the

grandeur.” _

FALL FITNESS text // Roxi Fernandez

When we were freshmen, we felt a newfound sense of freedom, not just because our parents were out of sight but more specifically, we had a stronger power: choice. We could choose whatever we wanted to eat, whenever we wanted it. College students tend to choose food that tastes good, often in excess, rather than choosing healthy options along with utilizing portion control in the cafeteria.

DON’T SKIP MEALS. It cannot be stressed enough that breakfast is the most important meal of the day. You will not only help boost your metabolism by getting protein and good carbs in your system at the start of your day, but you provide your body with the energy it needs to keep you focused and feeling good. Plan for your day the night before and leave an apple or a snack bar out for you to grab before you leave.

STAY HYDRATED. If you’re not someone who consistently carries a bottle of water with them, prepare to change your ways.

Staying hydrated has more benefits than keeping your body healthy and staying alive. Water helps curb hunger, making you feel more full.

Try drinking half a glass when you’re craving a late-night snack.

Still hungry? Reach for fruit instead of ice cream. You’ll get the sugar fix you want without the extra fat and calories that can derail your diet. Water has been scientifically proven to encourage hair growth and strength, as well as healthier, smoother skin! Drink up!

PACK SNACKS! Try to carry small and healthy snacks with you to keep your energy and metabolism up. To understand how metabolism works, imagine your body as a paper shredder. If you put too much paper in at once, it slows down and takes a while to shred. If you put one single sheet of paper in at a time, it speeds up the process and doesn’t take as much work to shred or “burn off”. As you snack on apples, pretzels, or health bars between classes, you can rest assured that you won’t experience the embarrassment of a growling stomach in a quiet classroom.

DON’T STRESS ABOUT COUNTING CALORIES. Focus on nutrition; 500 calories of candy won’t give you the nutritional value that 500 calories of fruit will. For breakfast aim for food high in protein like eggs or Greek yogurt. Protein takes longer to digest, helping you feel fuller for longer.

The same goes for dinner; protein is the best choice at night as your body is slowing down and gearing up for sleep. Deep-dish pizza late at night will be a carb overload to your metabolism, making your body work harder, leaving you feeling even more exhausted at the end of the night. Stick with veggies and protein! As far as lunch goes, this is when your metabolism is at its peak. Go for your favorite sandwich and salad combo! You’re at the half-mile mark of the day; give your body the energy it needs without sacrificing taste.

CURB YOUR PARTY ANIMAL. We know Miley can’t be tamed, but maybe you can. The weekend arrives, and you’re planning your night out as soon as possible. College students tend to overlook the amount of calories they actually consume when drinking. If you

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must drink, darker beer is better, because it’s not as processed. Instead of rum, opt for vodka that is more distilled and contains less sugar. Alcohol also decreases inhibitions and can lead to overeating and making poor food choices while under the influence.

EXERCISE! Your tuition doesn’t just cover class costs; make the most out of the gym access you have! Consulting with a trainer in the fitness center is free, and they will help you set up a workout plan. Some students might feel embarrassed if seen with a trainer, but at the end of the semester you’ll have the last laugh with a hot bod. Don’t be hesitant to take advantage of these services. Even 30 minutes of cardio three times a week will make a difference. Remember, there are people out there busier than you who make time to workout. Make sure that whatever type of exercise you do fits easily into your personal and academic schedule so you’re able to stick to it.

It doesn’t matter how fast you run, or how often; you’re always going to be lapping the kid on the couch. #OFF-CAMPUS STRUGGS Apart from being late to class because of T issues, a lot of students living off-campus find they are too busy with classes, meetings, and jobs to eat proper meals throughout the day.

Do take advantage of your on-campus friends. That sounds totally rude, but chances are, they’d love to sit in the DH and eat with you since they probably see less of you now. As far as grocery shopping goes, you might be surprised how cheap it can be to eat healthy. You can splurge on fruits and meats after choosing cheaper items such as frozen veggies, rice and beans. •

Halloween Snacks! text // Liz Mantey

The smell of fall is in the air, the bewitching hour is near, CVS is stocked up with candy corn, the Disney Channel is playing “Hocus Pocus” on repeat and pumpkin flavors are back – everywhere. This can only mean that Halloween is coming soon and the question of what costume or costumes you will wear are a definite part of your to-do list. Now, you may be wondering if it is still acceptable to go trick-or-treating on Beacon Hill and the answer is yes. However, if you’re someone who gave up trick-or-treating a long time ago, but don’t want to miss out on all the good Halloween candy and desserts, making some fun treats in your dorm room can add a little festiveness to the Halloween season.

A staple Halloween recipe (and one that also requires no baking) is the always delicious caramel apple. Now these sound easy enough to make, but you might not have thought about it.

There are two ways to do this. If you want, you can make traditional caramel apples with stick and all, or if you want the flavor with less work, you can cut up the apples and dip them. All you need are Granny Smith apples, wooden sticks, two tablespoons water and one 14 oz. bag of caramels (the package of individually wrapped pieces).

With these simple ingredients you will want to start by inserting wooden stick ¾ of the way into the stem end of each apple. Place apples on a cookie sheet or aluminum foil. Melt the caramels and water over low heat or in the microwave. Stir often until the caramel and water mixture are smooth.

Dip each apple into the caramel and gently run apples around the inside of the saucepan or bowl to scrape off excess. Place on the aluminum foil.

Another option for these delicious apple treats is to simply microwave the caramels and water in a microwave safe bowl. Finish by cutting up the apples and dip into the caramel.

Personally I believe Halloween wouldn’t be complete without apple cider. Though this isn’t really a dessert, it can be used for those who don’t have much of a sweet tooth. This “Rotten Apple Punch” will make you feel spoiled to the core.

Ingredients: -Apple Cider (at least 1 gallon) -Red and Green Food Coloring -Small ½ cup containers (or just normal cups) -Gummy Worms -Pitcher (Or punch bowl)

Begin by pouring the apple cider into whatever you are going to use. Add 2 drops of red and 1 drop of green food

coloring to each dish and stir until the colors have blended.

Then hang 2 or 3 gummy worms around the edge of each dish and place the dishes in the freezer. If you use more than 3 worms, the rotten apples won’t float as well.

Freeze until the rotten apples are solid. Just before serving, slip the frozen wormy apples out of the dishes by setting them briefly in a few inches of warm water in your sink. Float the rotten apples in a large punch bowl filled with untinted cider. For added creepiness, drape the gummy worms over the edges of your serving bowl.

If this recipe is too complicated for you. just serve the Apple Cider with some food

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coloring and gummy worms. It is just as creepy and will delight any dorm room Halloween festivities.

As you can see, having a spooky, festive, and dessert filled Halloween season in the dorm rooms is not all that hard. These are just a few of the recipes that can turn your dorm room into the place to be. Your neighbors will love you and you won’t feel so bad if you didn’t score on the Halloween candy. • For more Halloween dessert recipes, check out allrecipes.com

Mr. Emerson, hosted by the girls of Alpha Epsilon Phi, sought out the guy who could rep the purple and gold the best and woo crowds with dazzling talent and charm. Returning to compete for the second time, Neil McNeil went home with the crown and all the glory of being this year’s Mr. Emerson.

McNeil, 21, comes from Highland Mills, N.Y., which he says is a town that no one’s ever heard of, but is in the heart of the world’s largest outdoor shopping outlet mall. A studio television major, with an Evvy award already tucked under his sash, he’s set to graduate in 2012. But before then, he can be found either at The Emerson Channel, helping out as a videographer for Emerson Productions, or working at Newbury Comics.

Q. What was it like to compete in Mr. Emerson again?

Competing again this year was surreal. The event has grown so much in the past year thank to the amazing girls of AEPhi, and I just knew that this would be a million times more difficult than last year. This year, I took things much less seriously and just showed off my personality more.

Q. Did you do anything differently from last year?

Last year I was so nervous, and this year I felt like I was much more confident and relaxed. It was great to come back again, and the girls welcomed me back with open arms. The other guys were so amazing too, I’m glad I got to work with each one of them.

Q. Why did you go out for Mr. Emerson?

The first time I went out for Mr. Emerson as a funny afterthought. I don’t consider myself “hot shit” and I don’t have very much confidence when it comes to public speaking, but I was friends with a lot of the girls and decided to give it a shot.

Q. And this year?

This year I just wanted to wear a pretty crown and embarrass my boyfriend in front of a large crowd.

text // Cecille Avila photos // Hope Kauffman

interview // Cecille Avila

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produced here at school on The Emerson Channel, and I achieved that goal last year.

Q. How does your boyfriend feel about you participating in (and now) being crowned Mr. Emerson?

It’s funny, when I told my boyfriend about Mr. Emerson I was expecting him to run back to Wheelock screaming. But he just laughed, and he agreed to help me work on my routine. He’s an amazing guy, and I’m glad he still loves me after watching me do a “Bring It On” cheer in a purple feather boa and booty shorts. I tell him he’s my First Lady, and he just laughs and tells me I’m weird. We celebrated with fried chicken and How I Met Your Mother after I won.

Q. If you were a super fancy, expensive cocktail, how would you be made?

It would be a mixture of Grenadine, blue raspberry vodka (do they make that? If not, they should), blue food coloring to make it purple! and put into a blender with ice.

Q. What did you do to prepare for the event?

I actually spent a lot of time shopping for the event.

Sounds dumb, but I wanted to look my best and have the most outrageous outfits. That actually calmed me and got me in the competition mode. Plus, I had to practice rapping “Super Bass” by Nicki Minaj nonstop for the past week, so my roommates got pretty sick of hearing that in the apartment 20 times a day. I absolutely love themed parties and dressing up for Halloween, so this was like Christmas for me.

Q. What was with the shark?

That wasn’t a shark... That was a gay dolphin. Does it make more sense now? No? Well, it was a metaphor for me being a good catch. BAM. Q. And where did you get that gold Speedo?

Wait... You mean all the guys at Emerson don’t own gold booty shorts? Weird.

Q. What’s your experience been like at Emerson?

Emerson has given me everything I have ever wanted, from the opportunity to produce my own live TV series to interning at MTV over this past summer. It hasn’t always been the easiest journey, but it’s given me the most amazing experience in the professional world. It was always my dream to win an EVVY for work I

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Q. What about sundaes?

Strawberry ice cream with frozen chunks, covered in candy Nerds, hot fudge, all on top of a freshly baked cookie and topped with whipped cream and sprinkles. No cherry. That would be weird. •

NEXT STOP: COOLIDGE text // Christina Jedra

This old, Jewish neighborhood is located in and around the intersection of Beacon Street and Harvard Street in Brookline, a few T stops west of our own Emerson campus. It is immediately endearing with strips of small, family-owned shops nestled in buildings that have a distinctly European feel.

A few paces from the T stop is the somewhat-famous Coolidge Corner Theater, a nonprofit movie theater and self-proclaimed “cultural landmark” that has been showing a mix of new, classic, and independent films for many decades.

The movie marquee lacks any bold, sparkling lights but is charming for that very reason. This month, they are playing everything from Circumstance to Alecia Silverstone’s Clueless, a flashback from 1995. Some added bonuses: There’s the Upper Crust Pizzeria right next door for a pre-movie meal and $.75 of every movie ticket sold goes to Capitol Campaign Renovation Fund.

At 279 Harvard Avenue is The Booksmith, a small bookstore that has run for almost 50 years.

Not only do they have a variety of books and a knowledgeable staff, but they also host events for authors to read and sign their books for customers. They present a different author every day or so and it’s completely free of charge! This is a great place to visit if you’re interested in writing or publishing.

Anna’s Taqueria is a well-known and always-bustling Mexican food restaurant, similar to Chipotle but cheaper. They have six locations, with one on Beacon Street and another on Harvard Street. With a simple menu and affordable prices, it’s a great place to go when you’re craving something spicy. They make the food in front of you based on your preferences and you can either eat on the go or enjoy your burrito in the restaurant.

Coolidge Corner has many other small businesses, each working in their own niche. There are stores for shoes, vintage clothes, pastries, knick-knacks, beauty supplies, ice cream, cards, candles, books… They literally have in individual store for everything. So if you’re looking for a belly dancer’s jiggling hip belt, a denim jacket from the ‘80’s, or a menorah, Coolidge Corner is your place!

They also have many small restaurants offering dishes such as sushi, Thai food, Indian food, and Mediterranean food. Of course, the neighborhood has commercialized a bit over time so they have other options available as well like Panera, Dunkin Donuts, and an always-busy Trader Joe’s. •

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