Eagle's Eye Online

Fall Movie Preview
Posted 10/6/09 *Josh G.

As the leaves fall and the school year begins, the movie theater does not take the season off. It seems as though Hollywood planned to release some of its most intriguing films towards the end of the year. Whether it’s running from zombies or becoming king of the Wild Things, fall movies promise not to disappoint.

The first movie that burst onto the scene is called, The Informant! It stars Matt Damon, whom viewers may recognize from the Ocean’s Eleven the series. Damon is teaming up with the director of the Ocean series, Steven Soderbergh to bring the remarkable true story of Mark Whitacre. Whitacre was an Ivy League graduate who was employed by a Fortune 500 company. He finds that the company has been doing some shady business and at this point the FBI contacts him. Whitacre is asked to wear a recording device to prove that the company is breaking the law. This dark comedy/thriller released on Sept. 18^th.

Next on the movie reel is the horror/comedy Zombieland. It stars Jesse Eisenberg (Adventureland) and Woody Harrelson (White Men Can’t Jump; Semi-Pro). This unique film is about a world overcome by zombies. Although this seems overdone, a splash of humor has been added to this Zombieland. It is the perfect movie for high schoolers who have had a hard week and want to cheer up with some laughs. The film releases on Oct. 2^nd.

Finally, the must see movie of the fall is Where the Wild Things Are, based on the book by Maurice Sendak. The story revolves around a misunderstood adolescent named Max who finds the Wild Things and joins them on their island. He eventually becomes their king but problems soon arise. The movie stars Catherine Keener (Capote, 40 Year Old Virgin) and Mark Ruffalo (Zodiac). It has a mixture of beautiful special effects and live-action that makes it stand out among the movies of the fall. Teens will get to relive their childhood favorite book on Oct. 16^th.

The fall has many new and interesting films to share with us this year. This is the time of year where the best films stand out among the action of the summer and the Oscar contenders of the winter. So let the projectors roll…

Fall Music Preview
Posted 10/6/09 *Josh G

When the school year begins, students start to restock their music collections. These will grow substantially this year with some artists gaining respect and some artists trying to maintain respect. The fall brings protégés, tight jean-wearing punk rockers, clowns, and much more.

The fall music scene starts with the arrival of Scott Mescudi, better known by his stage name Kid Cudi. He has climbed the slippery slope of commercial hip hop while still retaining the grit of an underground rapper. Cudi is known for being the protégé of Kanye West. In today’s hip hop generation, it is hard to find a musician who has something serious to say. His lyrics are determined to prove to the listeners that Cudi has a different sound. He has no gimmicks, no line dances, just raw lyrics and catchy beats. Cudi has released two free mix tapes to get his name noticed and released his debut album, “Man on the Moon: The End of the Day” on Sept. 15.

Next in line is Sean Kingston. He released his catchy song, “Fire Burning”, to give listeners just a taste of what is to come. His album, entitled “Tomorrow”, is an upbeat reggae mixture that is sure to please. Kingston is not looking to do anything other than make people move to his music. Get ready to dance on Sept. 22.

AFI has made their name in punk rock known for almost two decades. Their new work, which is to release this fall, looks to be a continuation of what they have built their name upon: anthem-like choruses and catchy guitar solos. Their album, entitled “Crash Love”, is the band’s first album since 2006’s “Decemberunderground”. Listeners can expect punk rock tunes that will make their head move and their feet tap. The mosh pits will begin on Sept. 29.
Kiss also returns to music store shelves this fall. They have made a similar deal with Wal-Mart as AC/DC did to revive their career. “Sonic Boom” will release on October 6^th. Kiss has not released an album in 11 years, returning to the music charts should be quite interesting. We’ll see if it was worth it for Gene Simmons to take time off from his reality show to dust off his bass and put the make up back on.

The fall seems to bring back some old faces and some new ones as well. It should still be a music season of nostalgia even with a fair amount of newcomers this year.

Going Green
Posted 10/6/09 *

One man’s trash is another man’s treasure. Now that “going green” is in effect and so many ideas are being created on how we can save the Earth together. Going green does not mean, stop using everyday tools and devices, and simply use less than you did before.

Following the three R’s (Reduce, Reuse, and Recycle) can stop waste in landfills, water, and land. Everyday we waste things that can be used for someone else. Donating is also a part of going green; donate clothing and shoes to your local shelter, Goodwill or Salvation Army. Someone else would love those Steve Madden wedges as much as you did.

Ever wondered why people buy in bulk? Well, not only do you get more for your money; you reduce waste in landfills and save energy at the same time. Next time you pass the local Sam’s Club or Costco, go in and take a peek. You might find prices that will blow your mind. Saving energy is the most common way for going green, so buy compact fluorescent bulbs (CFLs) to save up to 75 percent off of your lighting costs.

Those long showers we all like to take don’t have to end but purchasing a low flow showerhead will surely lower the water and put money back in your pockets. Buying eco- friendly cars is a great way to go green because you’re not polluting the atmosphere as much as with regular cars. High levels of pollution affect everyone’s health, at gas prices being at their all time high, an eco-friendly car might not hurt.

Eating smart is healthy and also a part of “going green”, you would buy less meats and more organic foods, fruits and drinks. If you eat meats, have one meatless meal a week. Meat is expensive when you consider the related environmental and health costs. Water bottles are also expensive, but they generate large amounts of container waste. By leaving your stereos and phone chargers plugged in while their off still uses energy, so lets conserve some energy. Go green, be clean, do the thing!

Celebrity Deaths
Posted 10/6/09 *Dustin L.

Most will remember the summer of 2009 from the amount of celebrity deaths that occurred. Not only did we lose several celebrities this summer, we lost some beloved icons.

The first shocking death witnessed was on Jun. 3 when American actor David Carradine was found hanging in his hotel room. He was known for his work in the TV series Kung Fu and the popular Kill Bill movies. He was 72 years old at the time of his death.

On Jun. 23, Ed McMahon passed away at the age of 86. McMahon was famous for being Johnny Carson’s sidekick on The Tonight Show and hosting the popular Star Search.

Just two days later, on Jun. 25, Charlie’s Angels star Farrah Fawcett died after losing her long battle with cancer. She was surrounded by friends and family at the time of her passing. She was 62 years old.

That same day, the world was shocked at hearing that Michael Jackson, the King of Pop, died of cardiac arrest in his Los Angeles home the age of 50. His death was ruled a homicide in August after it was discovered that anesthetic propofol and other drugs caused his tragic death. Jackson was laid to rest two months after his death.

“This was truly a tragedy,” said Junior Ben Schwartz. “He was an 80’s hero that singlehandedly defined music marketing.” Jackson was one of the most commercially successful entertainers of all time.

The unfortunate deaths didn’t stop there. Three days later, advertising salesman Billy Mays died from heart disease at the age of 50. Mays became a household name from his many infomercials where he promoted products including OxiClean and Orange Glo.

On Jul. 4, ex-NFL quarterback Steve McNair was found shot and dead by his mistress who killed herself after. McNair was only 36 at the time of his death. McNair, a three-time pro bowler played for the Baltimore Ravens for two years.

Famed journalist Walter Cronkite died at the age of 92 on Jul. 17. In early August, movie director John Hughes died from a heart attack at 59. Politician Ted Kennedy was the next to pass on, ending his struggle with brain cancer.

The last of these deaths occurred on Aug. 28 when popular DJ Adam “DJ AM” Goldstein died of a probable drug overdose at the ripe age of 36. This was almost a year after he survived a fatal plane crash which resulted in four people dying.

This summer was tumultuous when it came to the passing of famous people. All of the celebrities that died over the summer were incredibly influential in their own way, making their deaths heartbreaking.

College Profile
Posted 10/6/09 * Brooks S.

Clemson

SAT VERBAL: 550-640

SAT MATH: 590-680

Total ENROLLMENT: 14,713

GENDER BREAKDOWN:

51% MEN 49% WOMEN

Clemson University is a four year coed public university in Clemson, South Carolina. If you are interested in agriculture or engineering, then Clemson could be the school for you.

Clemson accepts only 35% out of students that apply from out of state, and most have a GPA of 3.75 or higher. 54% of applicants are admitted to the school, and 50% of the students were in the top ten of their high school class. It doesn’t matter what major you are looking to pursue, because Clemson offers over 70 majors. Clemson also offers a bachelors, masters, and doctoral degrees. There are plenty of interesting things on campus as well, like a planetarium and a geology museum. There is also guaranteed on campus housing for all undergraduate students. It is also an affordable school, with 51 % of the students receiving financial aid of some kind or another.

Clemson also has one of the best sports programs in the country, including 27 varsity sports. Clemson is in the ACC for most of their sports, which is arguably the most competitive conference in college sports. Their football team is improving, and their baseball team has been successful for many years. Even if you are not good enough to play for their teams, it is very enjoyable to watch. The soccer at Clemson is also very impressive, winning their most recent championship in the 80’s. For all those golfers out there they have a very nice on campus course that is open to the public.

Freshman vs. Seniors
Posted 10/6/09 * Robby B.

There is a huge difference between freshmen and seniors. Zach Freidman, freshman, says that he isn’t scared of anyone. Although standing only about four feet ten inches, he has already learned his moves from Guy Pritzker. Freidman has high expectations for his first year in high school, and says, “I really just want to meet new people.” Freidman joined the soccer team and is enjoying the sport. Many students of all grades already have favorite teachers, Freidman, even only after 3 weeks passing by, says that he really enjoys Ms. Lubold’s class and Ms. Bradley’s class even though Ms. Bradley’s work can be tough at times. He said the work is definitely manageable.

Observing freshman may be interesting, but looking back on senior experiences can be just as intriguing. Senior Robert Moy has been a straight “A” student all the way through high school, taking the most advanced classes the school has to offer. Currently, Moy is applying to great schools throughout the country, ranging from Johns Hopkins to Harvard. Moy said, “Although Harvard is going to be a long shot, I know that if I get in I will do great things there because of great OMHS teachers such as Mr. Lambert.” Moy said that his most memorable moment here at Owings Mills are all the different teacher’s personalities. Robert stated, “Some memories you make in high school are forgettable, but Ms.Goodsen’s accent is definitely not one of them.” Unlike Freidman, Moy has taken the musical path instead of sports. He plays the piano, guitar, and excels in his violin playing. He is one of the most talented musicians in the county. When asked how he feels about his standing in high school as a senior, Moy simply replied by saying, “AWESOME!” He then went on to explain that the feeling of accomplishment can not be spoken nor written, but only experienced. Friedman and Moy have more in common than they are different, but Moy may have some good advice for Friedman, “Whatever you do throughout your high school career, schoolwork comes first, although it usually will not seem like the “cool” thing to do.”

Ten Steps To A Healthier You
Posted 10/6/09 * Robyn L.

With all the junk food and ice cream in the world it may seem impossible to get healthy. Don’t worry; it’s much easier than it looks. The goal here is not to become an intense healthaholic, but to take a few steps towards a healthier you. It is important to start forming healthier habits and by following these simple steps you are sure to improve your lifestyle.

1. Put Down the Chips-

Chips and snack foods are full of calories and fat. They taste good, but they are bad for you. Rather that eating junk food, try to replace it with healthy substitutes like fruits or vegetables.

2. Get to Know H20-

Water is essential to life and necessary for your body to function. Try to drink eight glasses of water a day to stay fully hydrated. The more water you drink, the better you will look and feel.

3. Catch Up on Some Z’s-

Sleep is extremely important and teenagers should get around nine hours of sleep a night. Try to go to sleep a little earlier each night to get your body used to going to sleep earlier.

4. Portions, Portions, Portions-

Portion control is very important to maintaining a healthy weight. Sometimes you may eat too much food at one sitting so the extra food is stored as fat on your body. If you don’t want that, eat smaller portions that your body can handle.

5. The Most Important Meal of the Day-

Everyone forgets about breakfast but it can help you lose those extra pounds. Skipping breakfast is unhealthy and by eating a small breakfast, you are starting up your metabolism and improving the portions you eat for the rest of the day.

6. Bye Bye McDonalds-

Fast food restaurants sell unhealthy foods that are loaded with carbohydrates and chemicals. Even their salads are full of calories. Rather than spend money on fast food, try to replace it with a homemade salad.

7. Get Up and Move-

Exercise is one of the most important things you can do for your health. By exercising just a few times a week you can burn tons of carbohydrates. You can organize an exercise schedule or you can just take a walk around the neighborhood. Any exercise is good exercise.

8. Drugs are for Chumps-

Drugs are harmful to your body. Abusing any drug, even an over the counter products, is unhealthy. Alcohol and cigarettes can lead to lung and liver cancer. Forming bad habits with drugs will lead to health problems later on in life.

9. Don’t Skip Meals-

If you are trying to lose weight, skipping meals is the wrong way to accomplish this. Starving yourself will only slow down your metabolism. Try to eat numerous small meals during the day to keep your metabolism up.

10. Love What’s in the Mirror-

When getting healthy, it’s important to look at physical health and emotional health. Self-confidence and esteem is extremely important to your health. Love what you see in the mirror, care about your health, and all the healthy habits will follow.

Fall TV Preview
Posted 10/6/09 * Josh G

As the summer comes to a close, students can at least look forward to the exciting new shows premiering on television this fall. The major networks have many new series planned with interesting premises that will keep their audiences hooked.

ABC has many thrilling shows planned for the fall season. One of these shows is FlashFoward, a science-fiction show about a mysterious event where millions of people see brief flashes of the future. FlashForward, which premiered on Sept. 23, centers around these flashes and what they could mean.

ABC has also picked up some lighter shows, including Modern Family, a comedy series poking fun at families today. Modern Family stars Ed O’Neill and, based on early reviews, is sure to be a hit. This funny series started on Sept. 23.

The Good Wife on CBS is a legal drama about a former attorney who has to return to work after her politician husband is involved in a very public scandal. The Good Wife, which premiered Sept. 22, stars ER’s Julianna Margulies and reflects recent political scandals.

This past year, ER came to a close after airing for 15 years. NBC filled the gap that ER left by picking up Mercy, a hospital show featuring the nurses that run the hospital. Mercy, which premiered on Sept. 23, has a lot to live up to if it is supposed to take the place of ER.

NBC picked up another medical show, Trauma, for the fall season. But instead of featuring doctors and nurses, Trauma focuses on first responder paramedics that have to face extreme conditions to save lives. This action-packed show launched on Sept. 28 and is one of the stronger shows in the NBC lineup.

NBC also picked up several comedy series, including Community, starring Joel McHale and Chevy Chase. McHale’s character is a suspended lawyer forced to go to community college where he meets a group of eccentric students. Community premiered on Sept. 17.

Fox premiered a spin off of the popular animated comedy Family Guy by producing The Cleveland Show. The series stars Peter Griffin’s buddy Cleveland Brown, voiced by Mike Henry, who moves back to his hometown where he rekindles a romance with his high school girlfriend. The Cleveland Show started on Sept. 27.

Networks are also reviving old series for the fall season. V, premiering Nov. 3 on ABC, is the reimagining of the 1980’s sci-fi miniseries about aliens. The CW is remaking Melrose Place, the 90’s soap opera about a group of young adults living in West Hollywood. The new Melrose Place premiered Sept. 8.

“I haven’t heard about any of the new shows,” said Junior Adam Grossman. “I’ve seen ads for the shows returning in the fall, but that’s it.”

It’s unfortunate that the several new series premiering this fall haven’t been heavily advertised because these new shows look impressive and have potential to become smash-hits. People can be stubborn when it comes to trying out new shows, but with the interesting shows premiering this fall, it’ll be worth it to watch.

Fall Economy Savings
Posted 10/6/09 * Rachel A.

Even though the economy is suffering this fall, do not let your wardrobe become a victim too! There are plenty of ways to update your wardrobe without breaking the bank.

Before heading to the mall, shop your closet first. You can wear your favorite summer tops in fall by throwing on a sweater and adding jeans instead of shorts. A sundress can be worn with tights and boots to make it more suitable for the chilly weather. Make your basics go the mile by dressing up a t-shirt, your favorite jeans, a solid dress or a button down. Accessories can create multiple outfits out of a single piece of clothing. A great way to embrace the latest trends is to add affordable jewelry and accessories to a plain t-shirt.

There are plenty of stores that make shopping for bargains a stylish affair. Forever 21 has a massive selection of clothes, accessories and shoes. This fast fashion chain is great at what they do: they take the hottest trends straight off the runway and put them into stores quickly and at a low price. Most tops and dresses are under $20, while the designer look-a-like jeans are usually under $30. There is even a section on their website called “Daily 21 Specials” where they take 20% off 21 different items every day.

Target may seem like a place to just find household items, but they have an impressive selection of affordable clothing and shoes fit for any fashionista. In addition, Target’s GO International brand teams up with several designers a year to create looks similar to what the designers put on their runways. This month, designer Anna Sui lends her rocker meets bohemian looks to Target. The line is inspired by the characters on the hit show Gossip Girl. Sui’s high end look is made more affordable and practical for everyday life.

At Kohl’s, popular designer Vera Wang has a line, Simply Vera Wang. Wang is known for her beautiful red carpet dresses and expensive wedding gowns, some costing as much as $12,000 . Her luxurious look is not lost, just toned down and made infinitely more affordable. Kohl’s also carries a less expensive variety of Lee and Levi’s jeans.

Wal-Mart, the world’s largest public corporation, is known for its extremely cheap prices. They recently came out with a clothing line, a collaboration between Miley Cyrus and designer Max Azria, in which all items are under $20.

Bargain department stores such as Loehmann’s, TJ Maxx, Marshall’s and Filene’s Basement sell designer overstock at deeply discounted prices. Junior Taylor Stern said “Loehmann’s is a great place to shop because you can find designer brands for a lower price but the clothes still have the same quality.

Junior Jake Shapiro encouraged people to, “Go to TJ Maxx. They have good clothes for low prices. If you have ever seen me, I’m very fashionable and I get shirts there.”

If you want to keep your wallet and your closet full this fall, be a resourceful and careful shopper. There are plenty of ways to embrace fashion without the hefty price tag.