Inside
Stores like Target are empty due to COVID-19 and its increase in online shopping Photo via New York Post
Changes in Black Friday Shopping What’s different this year? by EVAN KATZ Staff Writer Normally stores are packed with people excited to embark on their annual holiday shopping sprees on the Friday after Thanksgiving. However, due to the Coronavirus pandemic and the health precautions in place, holiday shopping looked much different this year. Many stores implemented new policies and conducted their holiday shopping differently to ensure that all customers and employees were safe. For example, most stores required everyone to wear a mask, fewer customers were allowed inside the store at a time to maintain social distancing, and stores marketed and sold more of their products online. Online shopping has skyrocketed during the pandemic, and now, with the holidays coming up, many companies are investing much of their time into their increased online orders. For example, companies like Amazon have had to hire more employees to ensure packages are sent out to their customers on time.
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“Their ability to make a promise and say it will arrive by Tuesday, and sure enough it arrives by Tuesday, [allows them] to be able to do that much better than anyone else,” said James Thomson, a consultant for third-party sellers and former head of Amazon Services in an interview with CNBC. Since everything is easily accessible virtually, senior Charlie Foster feels that online shopping is the better option. Foster explained his viewpoint on virtual shopping. “I actually like virtual better and so does my mom. It is a lot less hectic and especially during these times it’s nice to not be in big crowds in a store or a mall,” said Foster. Retail workers feel the same way when it comes to their safety. “Every day I see more and more people come into the store to look for their new hot electronics, that worries me,” said Target employee Angel Ponce in an interview with LA Times. To protect and keep workers safe, some com-
panies like Target decided to extend Black Friday deals all month long to try to take the pressure off of a rush of people on Black Friday. “By kicking off our holiday deals earlier than ever, offering Black Friday pricing throughout the full month of November, and extending our Price Match Guarantee, we’re letting guests know they don’t need to wait or face the crowds to get the best deals, all with no membership fees required,” said Target’s executive vice president and chief merchandising officer Christina Hennington in a company release. However, with so many deals available it does not necessarily mean that shoppers are getting the best deals. Junior Sammy Curcuru felt a little uncertain. “I don’t really know if I think there should’ve been more or better deals since everyone was online, but I definitely was skeptical about whether or not I was getting a super high-quality model because some companies make cheaper products
for their Black Friday deals,” said Curcuru. To avoid running into this problem, experts strongly advised shoppers to do their own research before buying a product. “Planning and preparation are the key ingredients to a successful shopping season,” said Sara Skirboll, shopping and trends expert for RetailMeNot in an interview with CNBC. 2020 has changed our lives in so many ways. Black Friday has been an annual event for so many years, so even though the country is in a pandemic this year, many feel that it is important that Black Friday still happens to help the economy and struggling businesses. “After all [families have] been through, we think there’s going to be a psychological factor that they owe it to themselves and their families to have a better-than-normal holiday,” said Retail Federation Chief Economist Jack Kleinhenz in a press release from NRF.
HAWKEYE HOLIDAY
WOULD YOU RATHER? Receive one big present or 8 tiny presents? Travel or stay home for the holidays? Be freezing all break or sweating all break? Chug a gallon of hot chocolate or eat a whole gingerbread house? Eat candy corn every day or candy canes every day? Star on a popular holiday music single or star in a popular holiday movie? Have an extra week of winter break or an extra week of summer vacation? Play outside in the snow or watch holiday movies inside? Be the height of an elf or the height of an Abominable Snow Monster? Be given $100 dollars to buy gifts for yourself or be given $1000 to buy gifts for other people? Ride in the polar express or Santa's sleigh? Get frostbite or bad sunburn? Cook the holiday meal or clean up the dishes? Create a new holiday or a new language? Watch the nutcracker or be in the nutcracker? Have no snow in December or no snow in January? Stay up late or sleep in late during break? Decorate cookies or decorate a cake? Drink hot apple cider or hot chocolate? Live in an igloo or gingerbread house?
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HAWKEYEHOLIDAY
PREP PROGRAM SHOWING HOLIDAY SPIRIT PREP Program holds a contactless store selling handmade gifts by ASHLEY FOGEL Staff Writer In the midst of an abnormal holiday season, the Bloomfield Hills School District is still providing opportunities for those who lack face-to-face interactions. No matter what classroom you are in, the PREP program has a way to make you feel at home this holiday season. The PREP Program provides training for students with physical and developmental disabilities who are looking for a job. Students in the PREP Program are currently crafting holiday decor, including wooden signs and handmade items. The PREP students have put time and effort into making and selling these projects to the community as part of their transitional job training. The items are being sold at Bowers Farm Store, and all the proceeds go back to the PREP Woodworking Program. The woodshop program was created as a combination of retail training, production job training, and an exploration of leisure activity. These skills are essential to the jobs they will soon
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take part in, and the PREP Program makes mastering all of them possible.PREP teacher Russ McCall explained the process followed while creating the PREP wood projects. “The students are picking out the projects they want to make signs, coasters, benches, and picture frames [for]. We come up with some ideas and brainstorm with them, but they are doing every step along the way except the cutting. But after I pre-cut the wood, they do all the sanding, assembly, painting, and stenciling,” said McCall. When this project is held outside the pandemic, the students take a trip to Lowes to get supplies, which offers yet another learning experience. Students get to explore the store and decide if items are too expensive - decisions that allow them to prepare for future financial responsibilities. While crafting the projects, students got to try many new tasks. Some students enjoy staining or sanding, while some prefer the retail process more than the produc-
tion process. McCall made this process possible during the stay-athome order by dropping off the supplies at the students’ homes. “Just the making of the products is giving them job skills that they will be able to translate. It also is giving them leisure skills because there are things they can do in their own free time if they enjoy it enough. The students also are getting a sense of pride and purpose because they see the product going from raw material until it leaves the market, including putting money in the drawer,” said McCall. In the end, McCall understands why her work is worth it. She reflected on the students ability to work independently. “The best part for me as an educator has been watching their progress and excitement... It has been huge because they have bought 100 percent into the project. They have taken ownership of the woodshop. It’s not something that I’m bringing them into and having to walk them through. It’s a huge
COMMUNITY
sense of pride for them. It’s their shop,” said McCall. This project has offered many learning opportunities for PREP Students at Bloomfield Hills Schools. Their final products are available for contactless pick-up only at the Booth Center and at Bowers Farm. To see available items or purchase items made by the PREP students, contact Russ McCall at rmccall@bloomfield.org or stop by the Bowers Farm Store to support the PREP students as indicated on the Bloomfield Hills Website.
Some gifts the PREP program has made this holiday season Photo via PREP Program
HAWKEYE HOLIDAY
Best
y a d i l o H s t f i G
Gifts under $10 Fuzzy socks: American Eagle Target Earth Therapeutics Stickers: Stick’ em Redbubble Etsy Face Masks: Skims
Music subscriptions: Apple Music Spotify Premium TIDAL Amazon Music Unlimited
Gifts under $15
Under $30
Streaming subscriptions: HBO Max - $14.99 per month Netflix - Standard $13.99 Premium - $17.99 per month Hulu - $11.99 w/o ads on most programs per month
Candles: Evil Queen P.F. Candle Co
Writing utensils: Zebra Mildliner Tombow Sharpie pens Prismacolor Premier Face Masks: Old Navy Society6
Personal Collage: Homemade or get one made Canvaspop Snapfish Shutterfly The Coldest Water Bottle: The Coldest Water Bottle Amazon Walmart
Squishmallows: Walgreens The Paper Store Skincare and Relaxation Etee Zero Waste Skin Care Kaike
Under $60
Skincare and Relaxation The Ordinary Glow Recipe Star projector: BlissLight Sky Lite
Streaming subscriptions: Apple TV + Peacock Hulu Disney+ Prime Video Netflix
Graphic by Sam Sherman
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HAWKEYE HOLIDAY
Holiday Baking What’s a better celebration than chocolate? by LAINIE RUBIN Senior Columnist No wonder it's called the most wonderful time of the year There could not be a better dessert to make for a holiday meal. During this time of uncertainty, holidays will surely look and feel different. But, there is at least one tradition that does not have to change completely: baking with family. This Babka fulfills every single flavor you could ever dream of. The recipe includes: For the streusel: 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour 3 tablespoons sugar 1 tablespoon butter For the babka: 1 can Pillsbury dough sheet ⅔ cup semi sweet chocolate chips 1 tablespoon sugar 1 to 3 tablespoons ground cinnamon 1 tablespoon butter, melted 1 tablespoon semi sweet chocolate chips Heat oven to 375 degrees; grease and flour a loaf plan. In a small bowl, mix flour and three tablespoons of sugar. With a fork, cut in 1 tablespoon of butter until crumbly. Then, unroll the dough sheet and press the sides firmly until a rectangle is formed. Next, sprinkle the dough with ⅔ cup chocolate chips, 1 tablespoon sugar, the cinnamon, and half of the streusel mix.
Now, starting at the long side of the rectangle, roll up; pinch the edges to sell. Join the ends to form a ring; pinch the edges to sell. Gently twist the ring to form a figure eight; place in pan. Brush the dough with melted butter, and sprinkle with the remaining half of the streusel mixture. Sprinkle with one tablespoon of chocolate chips and lightly press into the dough. Finally, bake thirty to forty minutes, or until golden brown. Let cool for 20 minutes.
Chocolate delight Photo via Lainie Rubin
I can only say good things about the finished dessert. As I took my first bite, my word was “WOW!” The flaky, yet crunchy dough paired with gooey chocolate delightfully pleased my palate. s. I loved that I could serve myself as little or as much as I desired, and it was so delicious that I definitely sliced off more than my share..This dessert is perfect for the holidays. It does not take away from the other types of desserts, but it is a bit of a change from normalcy (I love trying new things during the holiday season). This recipe is also super simple and can make countless loaves at once. The recipe does not spoil quickly and is easily transportable, so for those not celebrating the holidays in the same vicinity as some of their loved ones, this recipe can be shared.
Ranking Chocolate Treats My take on a long-debated topic by CLAIRE SCHNEIDER Staff Writer Whether you love them or hate them, Hershey Kisses are one of the most well known chocolate candies around. They remain super popular throughout the year, but they especially shine during the holiday season. Lucky for you, if you don't like the traditional milk chocolate, this season they are offering a plethora of fun flavors. I’m here to rank these options and tell you which holiday Kisses are worth buying and which ones you should stay away from.
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Hershey’s Kisses have long been a fan favorite candy Photo via Lainie Rubin
Coming in at dead last; Cherry Cordial. This flavor was absolutely awful. I miss a week ago when I hadn't eaten these yet. When I opened the bag I was hit in the face with what could only be the distinct scent of robitussin, so I did not have high hopes for the taste. Contrary to its name, this tastes nothing like Cherry Cordial, but rather like cherry cough syrup. Safe to say I never want to eat these again.
Second to last is Hot Cocoa. I really wanted to like this one, yet I just cannot get behind it. It's too sweet and the cocoa flavor did not mesh well with the marshmallow filling. I will never buy these again. In fourth place is Mint Truffle. Although dark chocolate and mint are a very classic pairing, I am not a fan. I have never liked dark chocolate, but the main problem is the mint. Unlike other filled Kiss flavors, the ratio of chocolate to filling is unbalanced.
The first runner up is Sugar Cookie. Honestly, this one was weird. However, the more I ate it, the more I wanted. I love the crunch inside of these, it makes this taste like a little piece of sugar cookie dough. It is pretty sweet, but that's to be expected. I fully believe that if you put one of these in the oven for 11 minutes at 350 degrees, it will turn into a mini sugar cookie, which I am definitely a fan of. Coming in at second place; Almond. Now, I would like to preface this by saying I HATE Almonds. I would rather eat another Cherry Cordial Kiss than a plain almond. That being said, the almond inside paired with the milk chocolate creates the perfect crunch, and nice balance between sweet and salty. Additionally, it is also a nice palate cleanser from the other sugary, minty flavors.
And finally, the number one holiday Kiss *drumroll please* Candy Cane! This is by far the best Holiday Kiss. It’s a white chocolate base with peppermint swirls and small candy pieces. It’s not too minty, but also not too sweet. The peppermint bits make it reminiscent of an actual Candy Cane and the texture is just *chef’s kiss*. I could eat a million of these because they're utterly delicious and they perfectly encapsulate the holiday spirit. These were only my opinions on the holiday flavors, go out and buy whatever you want! They only come out once a year, and only I will judge you if you avidly eat the cherry cordial flavor. Happy Holidays!
HAWKEYE HOLIDAY
The importance of shopping local Look to small and local businesses for your holiday gift needs by CASSIE ENGLISH Copy Editor I, like many others, often fall into the pit of great Amazon deals and fast deliveries during the holiday season. With my family’s Amazon Prime subscription and my own employee discount at Target, it seems unlikely that I would even think about getting gifts from anywhere else. However, I try my best to be as environmentally conscious as possible and it has come to my attention just how important shopping from small or local businesses is. Though concerns can arise from shopping in-person during a pandemic,
your online shopping does not need to focus only on large corporations. These larger corporations often create extreme waste from their shipping and are supported primarily by fossil fuels like coal and gas, which have very harmful impacts on the environment. In addition, employees often suffer from poor work conditions and treatment by higher positions in the company. I’m not suggesting giving up shopping at big corporations entirely, but for the sake of the environment and workers, be sure not to neglect
small businesses for your holiday shopping this year. Personally, I have found websites like Etsy to be a more enjoyable, productive, and an environmentally friendly method of shopping. Individual sellers on Etsy create their own stores for vintage and handmade pieces, so the items for sale are very unique. Etsy also offsets 100% of the carbon emissions from their delivery process, which is something that other shopping networks have yet to take part in. You get the best of both worlds: shop-
STAFF COLUMNS ping small and finding cute pieces at the same time! Shopping locally also has similar benefits. Especially since the pandemic has driven many small, local businesses into tough situations, it is a great idea to support them this holiday season. It is worth it: customer service from local businesses is often much more responsive and helpful than other, larger companies, and shopping locally adds personality to your style. Lots of these local stores have been branching into online shops recently in order to
combat the Coronavirus, so shopping in-person isn’t the only way to support our local economy. Honestly, completely cutting large corporations out of your shopping routine is unrealistic, but I encourage you to do further research into the environmental and economic benefits of shopping small and to find some more unique, local shops for your holiday gifts this year and every year.
Following Week 14 of the 2020 college football season, the second installment of the College Football Playoffs rankings were released. Starting with the Top 4, the rankings had Alabama at #1, Notre Dame at #2, Clemson at #3, and Ohio State at #4. On the bubble were teams like Texas A&M, Florida, and Cincinnati. As of right now, I don’t see anybody taking down the Crimson Tide this
year, and I expect Nick Saban to take home his 3rd National Championship within the College Football Playoff era. Alabama QB Mac Jones is playing too strong right now, nearly unstoppable with projected first round receiver Devonta Smith, and a lights out defense to back him up. The task won’t be easy for Alabama, as they will still have to overcome the projected top 2 picks in Trevor Lawrence and Justin
Fields, as well as the undefeated Fighting Irish. Despite the chaos that is 2020, the excitement for this season has been at an all time high. There’s no better time for football than the holidays, and I am excited to see how this crazy year comes to a close.
year and that alone has uplifted my emotions, improving my day. I find joy in the little aspects of the holiday: the scented candles or even the cheesy Hallmark movies. I have been blessed and raised in an environment where Christmas brings back nostalgic memories and a feeling of warmth. I think about my sister and I jumping on our parent’s bed, in our matching pajamas,
chanting that Sant has come. I think about watching Polar Express and drinking hot cocoa while cuddled up by the fireplace. Christmas provides me with a short break from reality and I get to spend time with my loved ones. I enjoying listening to Christmas music 24/7 and driving around my neighborhood just to look at the vibrant lights. I enjoy giving back to the com-
munity and doing what I can to spread the contagious joy of the holiday season. Christmas brings me a sense of security and contentment. Christmas to me is so much more than getting new clothes or updated technology. I truly love the spirit the season brings and would celebrate all year if I could.
2020-2021 College Football Bowl Season is upon us My predictions for the 2020-2021 College Football Playoffs by BRANDON YAKER Section Editor The holiday season is upon us, and that can only mean one thing: college football bowl season. Following a full season of exciting college football matchups, we are blessed with an extra month of hard-fought games, starting with the Frisco Bowl on December 19 and ending with the National Championship game on January 11. So, this is an exciting season for many football fanatics.
Starting in 2014, the NCAA switched to a four-team playoff system for the top four college football teams in the nation, selected by a panel of judges based on record, strength of schedule and a number of other factors. The #1 and #4 teams meet in one semifinal, while the #2 and #3 teams play in the other. The two winners will then face off on January 11 at 8 pm in the National Championship on ESPN.
What Christmas means to me Holiday holds sentimental value to me by KALYN MULLENS Staff Writer As human beings, we often gravitate towards the negative. It is easy to complain about the little inconveniences and take the positive things in our life for granted. Emotions are contagious. When pessimistic people are present, it often creates a domino effect causing other’s moods to be negatively impacted as well. On the other hand, this ripple effect also applies to positive feel-
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ings. Which is one of the reasons why Christmas is my favorite time of year. It is a time that fills the air with happiness. The spirit of the holiday season is giving to everyone around you, not only materialistic items but giving gifts of love and sincerity. I am convinced the holiday season makes people nicer. I have received more waves and smiles from strangers than any other time of
HAWKEYE HOLIDAY
PRO/CON
Holiday Travel 2020
The Perfect Way to Start the New Year: Holiday Travel Traveling during the holidays by OLIVIA WHITE Staff Writer In past years, for many families, winter break has been a chance to take some time for themselves and relocate to a new destination. The holiday season is typically a time to spend with family and friends, yet with the COVID-19 pandemic, many people have changed their plans for break, while others are trying to do everything they can to keep their vacations on the calendar. Whether you are traveling somewhere tropical or bundling up somewhere snowy, taking a vacation can be a much needed break from our daily online routine.
If traveling this year, it is important to follow all safety precautions in order to stay healthy and defeat COVID-19 once and for all. With the many uncertainties this year has brought, it is important to continue holiday traditions to keep a constant in our lives. For many, traveling during the holidays is a yearly tradition to look forward to. While 2020 has imposed new restrictions and limitations on our typical lives, we are lucky to still be able to see loved ones near and far and travel to new destinations. It is a great
time to travel, as long as you are COVID safe, in order to reconnect with the people and places we have missed so much, since the pandemic began. Winter break is the perfect time to take a vacation because you will not miss out on any school work or classes. With only online classes this year, you can easily login to your Zoom classes from almost any destination. In previous years, it was impossible to be in two places at once, but now it is simple to be in the Florida Keys, and in AP U.S. History at the same time.
Traveling is the best way to experience something new. After being cooped up in our homes for months, a change in scenery is essential. Although travel options are currently limited, this is a perfect opportunity to take advantage of the beautiful places around the world, spend time with loved ones, or maybe even check out your own state a bit more.
Home for the Holidays Every reason why staying home is the best way to spend winter break by LEXI GUERRIERI Staff Writer Do you prefer a snowy holiday season tightly snuggled up with hot chocolate or a vacation on tranquil white-sanded beaches? Whether staying home this year for the holidays was the best thing to happen to you in 2020 thus far or the worst news you have ever heard, it is the reality for now. Staying home during the holidays is truly the best way to enjoy and appreciate time with family during this time. Despite all of the variables of 2020, there is one constant in everyone’s life, Covid-19. Unfortunately, it may be the reason your family will stay
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home this year. Whether or not Covid-19 is the reason, there are so many other things to look forward to including a lovely, yet freezing, holiday at home. Restricting traveling and limiting new people you come into contact with will help to slow the spread of the pandemic and protect your loved ones. So, while you sit by the fire watching your favorite movie you will not only be having quality time with your family but you will also be doing the safest thing you can in a crazy and unique time like this.
This year I will be catching up on some much needed sleep while spending the holidays in the comfort of my home. My family usually never travels during winter break because we like to unwind and have no responsibilities. There are so many fun family activities to do during this break. This should be the time where you experiment. Clean off that dusty board game box. Reorganize the pantry. DIY a holiday gift. This year is a time to start fresh. So, do that 1,000 piece puzzle you have been putting off, finally watch all of Star Wars (starting with four obvi-
ously), start your social media detox, or clean out your families ever-accumulating junk drawer. The possibilities are endless! Traveling and seeing new places is amazing, but that is not what the holidays are about. After a year filled with so much devastation and loss, it is important to reflect and count your blessings as we arrive in 2021. Home is where the heart is and this year it should stay at home.
HAWKEYE HOLIDAY
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HAWKEYEHOLIDAY
Opinion
Voices of the Hawkeye Staff Winter Music Review The best (and worst) songs of this holiday season by MADELINE GRACE Senior Columnist Whenever December rolls around, Apple Music and Spotify overflow with covers of holiday classics. But, the songs that stick out the most are almost always originals. While many artists chose to only release singles, Dolly Parton’s album A Holly Dolly Christmas stood out with features from Miley Cyrus, Micheal Buble, Wilie Nelson, and more. There are a number of great songs on this album, but “Christmas Is (feat. Miley Cyrus)” has to be my favorite. It provides Christmas cheer while spreading a message of kindness, and it is
also one of the most calming holiday songs that I have ever heard. On December 11, Taylor Swift released her surprise album Evermore, a follow-up to her similarly unannounced album Folklore that was released in July. Although Evermore itself is not a holiday album, “Tis the Damn Season” could definitely be considered a holiday song. This song explores the idea of someone visiting their hometown during the holidays and reconnecting with an old love. Unlike most other holiday songs, it intentionally leaves the holiday spirit behind, instead providing imagery of a fleeting relationship with an old flame. Swift successfully describes this
specific nostalgia through her (as always) beautifully written lyrics. On the other hand, some of this season’s music was not as good. Liam Payne and Dixie D’amelio’s “Naughty List” failed to impress me. The lyrics felt overdone and the almost robotic sound made it hard to listen to. Moreover, other songs were good, but not great. Dan + Shay’s “Take Me Home for Christmas,” for example, delightfully illustrates wanting to spend Christmas with a loved one. However, the song lacks lyrical complexity and
ical complexity and does not stand out against other holiday songs. Overall, Taylor Swift and Dolly Parton had the best music of this season. “Tis the Damn Season” filled me with nostalgia of something that I have never even experienced, while “Christmas Is (feat. Miley Cyrus)” filled my heart with holiday spirit. Even though some of this year’s holiday music was not the best, I am always impressed by the sheer number of songs that are released every holiday season. rus non enim praesent elementum. Leo
does not stand out against other holiday songs. Overall, Taylor Swift and Dolly Parton
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HAWKEYE HOLIDAY
Entertainment
12 Days of Ossenmacher
ISA HALSBAND Social Media/Business Manager
What place is #1 on your travel bucket list? “I haven’t been out West, so I’d love to see some of the national parks.”
What is your favorite part of the winter season? “I love snow storms. I love being curled up in the house while it’s snowing outside.”
What is currently your favorite song? “At the moment, we’re listening to a lot of Christmas music in our household. Or Taylor Swift’s new album.”
If you could have any superpower, what would it be? “I would definitely say reading people’s minds.”
If you could rock any instrument, which would it be? “Totally the piano. It’s impressive. I like listening to piano music too.” What is your Harry Potter house? “I’m a Ravenclaw.” If you had the choice between travelling back in time or to the future, which would you choose and why? “Back in time. Definitely back in the mid 90’s. It’s a great time period.” Do you have any pets? If so, what are their names? “Yes, I have a dog, and her name is Prue.” What is a T.V. show that you could rewatch over and over again? “Schitt's Creek. It’s so good. It’s so funny.” Do you have a weird talent? If so, what is it? What is your favorite comfort food? “Spaghetti. Pasta. Bread.”
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If you could only eat one food for the entire rest of your life, what food would you choose? “Pizza. You can always change up the toppings.” What is your favorite season of the year? “I guess fall. Fall in Michigan is always really nice.” Thoughts on pineapple on pizza? “Oh, I love it.” What is your comfort movie? “Probably Ferris Bueller’s Day Off. Ghostbusters. Love Actually.” What is something you wish you had more time to do? “I wish I had more time to read. Read books, newspapers, magazine articles.” If you could meet any celebrity, who would it be? “Probably Katie Couric. She was a news anchor on the Today Show. I was actually watching [her anchor] when 911 happened and that news was interrupted. We experienced that together, so I would just love to meet her.
HAWKEYE HOLIDAY
Reviews
HSM with a dribble and twist
Switching it up
The Perfect Holidare
by LINDSEY ZOUSMER Managing Editor
by NOA GOLDSTEIN Section Editor
by ISABELLE GOLDSTEIN Staff Writer
If you classify as a theatre nerd, Joshua Bassett fangirl, or High School Musical fanatic, you will not want to miss High School Musical: The Musical: The Holiday Special. However, if you find yourself unamused by musical theatre and previous High School Musical films, this could resemble a documentary that your parents force you to watch. With that being said, who does not love good music, entertaining actors and actresses, and holiday spirit? The bulk of the 45 minute episode consists of interviews with the cast. Each actor shares their best advice for the new year, stories about their hometowns and childhood, and they each perform their favorite holiday songs. Although entertaining, after the third or fourth interview, the special becomes quite boring. As a High School Musical fan myself, I expected a bit more plot and a few scenes that connect to the show. I would have loved to see an actual sneak peek of season two rather than just learning different bits of information I did not know about the characters. If you are a die-hard fan of season one, High School Musical: The Musical: Holiday Special will be worth your time. If not, do not bother–although the music is exceptional and the costumes are fun, there are plenty of other exciting films to spend your holiday season watching, while we wait for season two of High School Musical the Musical the Series. per eget nulla facilisi etiam dignissim diam quis enim. Elit
After a long 2020, the holidays and season of joy have finally arrived... kind of. Even though most of us are trapped in our own homes, some holiday traditions haven’t changed - like curling up next to a fireplace and watching a Christmas movie. The Princess Switch: Switched Again, released on Netflix November 19, 2020, is a hopeful attempt to bring holiday joy into peoples’ homes, but it falls short. Starring Vanessa Hudgens, former High School Musical star, this movie had potential, especially since the first Princess Switch that was released in 2018 had a very creative, lighthearted, and thrilling plot. In Princess Switch 2, however, all of the ideas are unoriginal, boring, and cliche. We see Lady Margaret (Vanessa Hudgens) prepare to take over the throne in Montenaro, while her lookalike Stacy (also Hudgens) is happily married to Prince Edward of Belgravia. Then we are also introduced to a third lookalike, Fiona (Margaret’s cousin), who has an elaborate plan to try and steal money from Margaret. Margaret struggles with gaining her identity back, while also trying to figure out if Kevin, her love interest, is the one for her. All of the themes and messages of this movie were predictable, and that made the whole film less exciting. Although the effort was there to create a memorable Christmas movie, The Princess Switch: Switched Again did not live up to its potential. tristique et egestas. In dictum non consectetur a. Porta non pulvinar neque laoreet. Scelerisque fermentum dui fauci-
The new Netflix show, Dash and Lily, is the perfect series for the holiday season. Based on the book Dash & Lily’s Book of Dares by Rachel Cohn and David Levithan, the show premiered November 10th with a rating of 100% on Rotten Tomatoes. The main characters, Dash, a charismatic teenage boy played by Austin Abrams and Lily, a quirky teenage girl played by Modori Francis, are looking to entertain themselves over the holidays in Manhattan. Lily places a notebook, filled with dares, at the Strand Book Shop. Dash encounters the notebook, and completes the dares while traveling to famous sights such as Macy’s Herald Square and Grand Central Station while becoming very curious about the person behind them. Dash and Lily continue exchanging dares bringing them ever closer to meeting in person. Dash and Lily uniquely combines the sights and sounds of Christmas with teenage drama. Engaging dialogue, likable characters, and recurring cliffhangers turned the approximately 30 minute episodes into an addiction, as I kept finding myself saying “just one more episode!” It is the perfect show for a late night binge curled up under a warm blanket drinking hot cocoa. I dare you to join Dash and Lily on their adventure to find each other this holiday season.
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HAWKEYE HOLIDAY
Reviews
New age, same struggle
Clouds hits a high note
by ELIZABETH WILBURN Staff Writer
by EMMA CODEN Staff Writer
The Croods: A New Age is most certainly the defining film of our generation. Okay, maybe not, but it explores subjects more deeply than I anticipated for what seemed like a money-grab. It asks the audience: How do we progress as a society, and at what cost? The movie starts with a backstory of how Guy (voiced by Ryan Reynolds) lost his parents, and how he meets Eep (voiced by Emma Stone). Eep’s family, The Croods, take in Guy, leading to the events of the first film. The main storyline begins when the Croods come across a big wall. On the other side is a beautiful rainforest, home of the Bettermans. Seeing themselves as more evolved, The Bettermans are very condescending to the Croods. But it turns out that they knew Guy and his parents, and they plan on taking him in while kicking the Croods out. Later, the audience discovers that the Bettermans were able to cultivate their rainforest by redirecting a local waterway. The Bettermans were able to progress beyond cave society, but they did so by stealing other’s resources. This film may have shocked me with the fact that it contains any social commentary at all, but parts of it lack depth. It also falls into one too many children’s media tropes, and uses Spandau Ballet’s “True” four too many times. Overall it was a solid children’s film, not one a young adult would seek on their own, but one you wouldn’t mind playing in the background of your cousin’s fifth birthday party.
Jane the Virgin star and Five Feet Apart director Justin Baldoni has yet again directed another movie that has blown audiences off their feet. Clouds, released October 16, 2020, is available to stream on Disney Plus. This film is based on the life of Zach Sobiech, a young teen diagnosed with terminal cancer, who is played by actor Fin Argus. Sabrina Carpenter also stars, playing the best friend Sammy. Rated PG-13, this film can easily entice many young adults and teens simply because of its sad, yet powerful storyline. Since the story was based on the real life of Zach Sobiech, a teenager from Minnesota who created a chart topping song and was a member of a musical group, A Firm Handshake, it was very interesting to watch his story. In the early 2010’s Zach and his band released a single called “Clouds” that blew up on YouTube. The song had an important meaning to Zach. Although Zach was terminally ill, he never lost sight of hope and happiness. His best friend Sammy and his love interest, Amy, made his days much better. Baldoni’s film is a touching and powerful story that could connect with those who want a deeper look into a real teenager’s life story, including the good and the bad. I liked the rawness of this movie, and I found myself invested in the plot from start to finish. I recommend this movie to those that are interested in music, sad stories, or an inspirational journey. You’ll feel as if you are on a rollercoaster watching the twohour drama, and it is a bumpy ride.
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A euphoric holiday gift by NOA GOLDSTEIN Section Editor “It is a Christmas Gift to 2020,” says actor Domingo Colman as he describes Euphoria’s new special episode which premiered December 6 on HBO. After Covid-19 delayed the production of a Season 2, director Sam Levinson decided to give fans something to put us out of our boredom, although it was nothing like what we expected. The episode starts with Rue (Zendaya) living out a fantasy, waking up happy next to her “best friend” Jules (Hunter Schafer). However, even in this fantasy, we see Rue relapse to drugs, which means she hasn’t truly recovered from her struggles with addiction even in her fantasy. For the rest of the episode, we see Rue and Ali (Domingo Colman), who is Rue’s mentor, deeply discuss how addiction has impacted Rue, and why she needs to choose sobriety. This discussion additionally reveals more information about Ali’s background. At first, I was a little bored with the format of the episode, but about halfway through I found myself tearing up. The performances by Zendaya and especially Domingo Coleman were groundbreaking. I can confidently say, this was one of the most impactful and inspiring hours of TV I have ever watched. Everyone should watch this episode because even if you struggle to can’t relate to Rue and Ali’s stories, you can learn a lot from them.
HAWKEYE HOLIDAY
HAWKEYE 2
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A popular warm winter beverage. The more commonly known name of Kris Kringle.
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The game that involves a four-sided spinning top in which you can earn or lose
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chocolate coins. The holiday celebrated on December 25th commemorating the birth of Jesus.
10. Commonly hung on doors. 14. the artist who sang the popular song "All I Want for Christmas is You". 20. Rumored location of Santa and his elves. 21. The season in which all of these holidays take place. 22. The first half of items left out for Santa on Christmas Eve. 25. Projectiles created with snow; most likely thrown at another person.
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27. A sock-likeitem used to place smaller gifts that aren't under the tree. 12
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Commonly placed on a Christmas Tree. Normally has a star on the top of it.
4. The candle holder that has eight spots; is used during Hanukkah. 7. A holiday celebrated for eight nights celebrating the eight days the drop of oil
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Down: 2. 3.
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28. A fun activity to create after heavy snowfall.
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lasted. 8. They stole Christmas. 11. The red-nosed reindeer. 12. Worn on your hands during cold weather; Michigan is also shaped like it. 13. Songs that spread and embrace the holiday spirit. 15. The second half of items left out for Santa
CROSSWORD PAGE16
on Christmas Eve. 16. A popular Christmas movie in which Will Ferrell is the main character. 17. Normally lit to observe varying holidays. 18. What are openedÂŽduring the holidays. 19. A popular song: ________ Bells. 23. A holiday celebrated from December 26th to January 1st.
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WinterTreats HowTo:HotChocolate
AllAboutHotChocolate
Building the best hot chocolate combo by JANE ROSETT Staff Writer What is Combo hot chocolate? It is a new phenomenon in restaurants and coffee bars internationally. You may have heard of marshmallows on hot chocolate, or hot chocolate with sprinkles, but have you tried Kit Kat hot chocolate? Or Gingerbread hot chocolate? Or any of the thousands of other combinations of hot chocolates? Well, new restaurants like Artfully Chocolate in Alexandria, Virginia are gaining popularity in the U.S.. These hot chocolate bars exclusively sell desserts, with hot chocolate as a favorite. Personally, I like S’mores hot choc-
olate the most. This hot chocolate is topped with toasted marshmallows and graham cracker crumbs. I first tried it at Toast in Birmingham, and ever since, it has remained my favorite winter treat. Summer is my favorite season and S’mores remind me of the summertime, so while I am miserable in the cold, I like to enjoy a little taste of summer, and S’mores hot chocolate gives me just that. There is a sense of nostalgia from the summers when I was little, enjoying S’mores. After trying it from Toast, I decided to attempt making it myself because, as good as it was, six dollars for a
cup of hot chocolate is not something I would buy every day. Here is how I make my new favorite drink: First, I preheat the oven to low broil. Then, I heat milk and water in a saucepan over medium heat until warmed thoroughly. Next, I add cocoa powder, chocolate syrup, sugar, stevia, and salt and whisk until thoroughly combined. Meanwhile, I take a few marshmallows and rub them around the top of my mugs so the graham crackers will stick. Then, I dip the mug in graham cracker crumbs until well lined. You could also add some graham crack-
er crumbs to the bottom of your mug for extra graham flavor. After that, I pour in hot chocolate and top with 1/4 cup marshmallows each. I carefully set mugs on the baking sheet in the oven and broil marshmallows until browned. Lastly, I carefully remove from the oven with a towel and top with a drizzle of chocolate syrup and extra graham cracker crumbs. This is my favorite wintertime drink and I hope you will try it out for yourself!
ExplodinginYUM! Viral hot chocolate bomb review by JASMINE WADE Staff Writer With over 156 million videos on Tiktok worldwide, hot chocolate bombs have proven to be the newest holiday addiction across the globe. The trend features chocolate balls with insides that are filled to the brim with cocoa powder and lots of marshmallows. To enjoy this edible bomb, you simply cover the ball in steaming milk, and wait for the chocolate shell to pop open. To me, it just seemed like an overcomplicated way to make a very
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simple beverage. However, being a very curious person, I decided to see if Tiktok had once again worked its magic to shed light to a new holiday trick. After my first attempt, I was disappointed – rather than the very thrilling and delicious visual of a hot chocolate explosion, my chocolate bomb melted in such an anti-climatic way that it left my cup looking like a hazardous oil spill. However, with determination, I attempted this recipe yet again, bracing myself for another trial and that inevitably ended in failure, but after many attempts, I had fi-
nally created the perfect hot chocolate bomb. So, let it be known that making these hot chocolate balls is not for the faint of heart, but, when done correctly, these hot chocolate bombs are simply unmatched. Got a few hours to make some hot chocolate? This trend is a must try for you this holiday season.
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