Horror is defined as an intense feeling of fear, shock or disgust. In the midst of the Halloween season, from the middle of September until the first week of November, pop culture is suddenly over-flowing with things designed to instill fear in people. Haunted houses, new releases of horror movies, re-runs of horror classics on TV and even Halloween-themed television episodes are all breathed in heavily by the pop-culture audience.

One thing that has changed, though, is horror movies. They’ve gone from finely crafted films that build suspense and take it to a shocking and frightening conclusion, to movies that studios seem to throw out into theaters to simply make money. They’re hardly even scary any more. Most of the jumps and screams in theaters are from a main character coming out from behind a door or something falling off a shelf, followed by a loud pounding of music. The music seems to only be there to wake people from the disconnected stupor movie-goers fall into as they watch these movies.

Instead of crafting real fear-inducing scares, the movies are flooded with blood and gore and chopped off limbs, followed by copious amounts of unnecessary nudity. Today it seems to be more about how far a director or writer can push a person until they are taken to their shock-limits.

The in-your-face quality that horror movies have today attract audiences nonetheless, but most horror-buffs have become numb to this type of fear, and thankfully, a select group of directors and producers have found a solution to the problem- Paranormal Activity.

The series of handheld camera films that show a particular family haunted by malevolent spirits may not seem scary to some people, but in each screening of the three films there seems to be a tense atmosphere as people wait for something to happen- and when something doesn’t happen, the people relax, before jumping and screaming in their seats, laughing afterwards, all in unison.

These movies seem to be made with a different formula than the cookie-cutter slasher films that seem to be abundant in amount today. There’s no music, the only score being the natural sounds of the house, the people living in it and the ghosts haunting them. The scares are not created by something popping out of nowhere and into the audience’s face, but rather by the lack of action.

Due to the handheld, ‘found video’ plot, the cameras are limited in movement and the audience can only see what the cameras capture. When something happens in the living room and the man leaves the camera in the bedroom, the viewer can only hear what is happening and just wait. That is not the only type of scare though, for there are the commonplace ones and shock ones, but they seem to be different too. It all looks real and feels real and it pulls viewers into the film. For this reason, it feels like it reallycould happen.

The most recent installment of the Paranormal franchise is the third one, and this time it is a prequel- the ‘found tapes’ document what happened to the little girls from the previous movies when they were younger. The movie ties the mythology of the franchise together, explaining why the girls are haunted into adulthood and explaining what happens in the first two films.

What’s different, though, is it is more extreme. The ghosts are angrier and scarier and stronger and the filmmakers have taken the liberty of no-holds-barred chills.

One addition to this installment that is different from all the other films is the ‘Fan-Cam.’ The man in the film attaches a camera on top of a rotating fan and, as it pans back and forth between the foyer and the kitchen, what is going to happen in the next frame is always unknown.

Paranormal Activity 3 is one of the scariest original horror films that have been released in a while. If more filmmakers followed their formula on how to scare and tell a story, then horror films would vastly improve, but sadly, they don’t. Movies like that are not guaranteed to make money, so studios play it safe and crank out a remake or a formulaic rehash of some story told years and years ago. It’s sad, really, as a horror-buff to see the genre disintegrate in the way it is, and one can only hope that studios see the need for improvement.

The Rock and Roll Hall of Fame will announce new inductees sometime in 2012.

The Rock and Roll Hall of Fame Foundation was established in 1983. The Hall of Fame’s main function  is to recognize those musicians who have helped to develop and evolve rock and roll. Musicians can be inducted no sooner than 25 years after the release of their first record, and only if they they have demonstrated musical excellence.

This year, the nominees include phenomenal groups such as Joan Jett and the Blackhearts, The Cure, Beastie Boys, and Red Hot Chili Peppers. Several solo acts are also in the running for a spot in the hall of fame as well, for instance Donavan, Freddie King, and Laura Nyro.

Some of these artists have better chances of being inducted than others. Take Donna Summer, for example. With her single “Love to Love You Baby”, Summer had the first of nineteen number one dance hits (trailing only behind Madonna) between 1975 and 2008. She worked with artists such as Barbra Streisand, Quincy Jones, and Bruce Springsteen. Summer continues to release music, and producers and DJs still use samples of this five-time Grammy Award-winner’s music.

Yet, some goups have a less charcetristic sound. The Beastie Boys made several transitions from punk to bad boys to political activists and finally to style icons. They pushed the limit of what a hip-hop group could be. They are known as the most politically active group of their generation. In the 1990′s alone they recorded three hit studio albums, and this success has bled into the 2000′s with three new studio albums, including 2011′s Hot Sauce Committee Part Two.

Some bands debuted even earlier, the Red Hot Chili Peppers, for example, erupted onto the music scene in 1983, immediately succeeding commercially by creating an influential sound. Guitar prodigy, John Frusciante left the band abruptly in 1992 due to his addiction to heroin, but later rejoined the band in 1998 at the request of the band’s bassist, Flea. The Red Hot Chili Pepper’s 1992 Number Two ballad “Under the Bridge” is called one of the best songs ever written about the struggle of addiction. After a four year hiatus, the band released 2011′s I’m With You, and embarked on a tour that would take them into the year 2013.

There is a poll on rockhall.com, the official Rock and Roll Mueseum site, where people can vote for their favorite nominee of 2012.

“It’s [iPhone 4S] impressive! I really like Siri, but I like mine too. I’m not gonna pay $400 for a new one when I already have one just like it,” iPhone 4 owner, Jackie Fowler said.

When the iPhone 4S became available for pre-order on October 7th, it sold over one million in the first 24 hours becoming the highest number of pre-orders for any version of the iPhone. Some speculated the death of Apple founder, Steve Jobs, had an influence on sales. Even with rave reviews of the new smartphone, some are not as impressed.

“Personally I won’t buy one. I still like my Blackberry. I may buy one for my wife, but it all depends on the new features,” Blackberry owner, Pax Garth said.

As of Monday, October 17, the iPhone 4S sold over four million copies and has even made the competitors feel uneasy. Samsung is trying to have the iPad 2, iPhone 4 and 4S banned in Japan and Australia and to “immediately stop the sale of Apple’s iPhone 4S in the respective countries,” for copying their High Speed Packet Access that Samsung patented. But despite all the setbacks, the new iPhone 4S is predicted to shatter Apple’s previous sales record.

A young blonde girl sits by a fireplace, playing chess with her cat; the red light illuminating their faces and flickering throughout the theater. The young girl is senior, Bethany Richards,who is playing as Alice in the MHS production of Alice in Wonderland.

Amidst all of the make-up and costumes were extraordinary actors, including Daniel George and Chandler Clamp who played several roles throughout the play. While Bethany Richards starred only as Alice, she was on the stage the entire time, enchanting the audience with her performance.

Two other fantastic performers were Devin Hunt and Beaven Waller. Beaven played the Mock Turtle, lending his vocal skills and instrumental talent to the scene when his character sang two songs to Alice- three if you include the vocals he provided while the Knight, played by Joe Cash, lip-synched to Alice. Devin, who is always a hilarious performer, lent his comedic skills to the Sleepy Mouse and Tweedle-Dum, paired with Beaven as Tweedle-Dee.

Despite the amazing cast and dedicated performances, the play was scattered and confusing at times. Understandably, it was the the first official performance of the play, but if the audience knew nothing of Alice in Wonderland before they went to the play, they might find themselves a tad lost.

The story revolves around a young girl and her curious adventures after discovering a key to variously-sized doors. Literally opening the door to a new world, she meets several characters along the way, including the Queen of Hearts, a belittling queen who often yells, “Off with your head!” She also meets the White Rabbit, a character who frequents the stage in a scattered, abrupt manner. In the play, Alice later goes on an adventure to become a queen after given an opportunity by the Red Queen. In this adventure, she must seek famous childrens’ storybook characters like Humpty Dumpty, Tweedle-Dee and Tweedle-Dum.

Alice is brought to the stage with skill and grace. Despite the overwhelming nature of the play, the cast seems to have a steady grip of what they are doing, and they ultimately bring the play together, delivering a satisfying production.

The play will premire on Oct. 13 at 7 pm and will continue until Oct. 19. However, this Sunday’s performance will begin at 2 pm and next Tuesday’s children’s performance will begin at 5 pm, upon which kids can get their picture taken with the cast. Tickets cost $5 for both adults and students.

The real reason Contagion is something so scary is because of the plausibility of the film’s subject matter. The film is portrayed in such a realistic way that it feels almost as if the events in the film could actually happen, and scientists believe it could too. Filmmakers consulted many officials, including employees at the CDC (Center for Disease Control), mirco-biologists, and other renowned scientists, many who were brought on board the film as paid technical consultants.

Similar to the Swine Flu pandemic in 2009 and 2010, Contagion’s virus spreads from a wild animal to a domesticated pig, then to humans; as several different people consume or come in contact with the infected pig. And, in the age where everyone flies together in closed areas, it is not doubtful that a disease could spread from city to city and person to person rather rapidly. As the disease spreads in the film, global panic ensues, as people desperately find ways to survive. Government officials believe this aspect of the film is not far off from real life either.

The film has received a far better reception from critics and scientists than a similar film, Outbreak, released in 1995. Outbreak was similar to Contagion in form, with many celebrities in lead roles and a similar plot, but the disease and it’s eventual solution was so inaccurately portrayed that the scientific community simply laughed.

Scientists say that, although it is a fictional movie, the development and spread of a disease is not entirely possible, especially today where there is so much human interaction in our day to day lives. Human to animal diseases are not as uncommon either; as deforestation occurs, animals become displaced and interact more with society.

Contagion, although a very enjoyable movie, can also be taken as a warning sign. A warning against germs, a warning against unhealthy interactions and behaviors, and a warning to people that diseases are common and not far-fetched at all.

Everyone has certain colors they picture when they think of the seasons. The great thing about fall is that what is in fashion is usually inspired by the season- crisp auburn leaves, golden apples, and fall skies. Never anything too bright, but never anything too dull; the trends this season are reminiscent of reinvented classics- think tailored suits and new levels of sophistication introduced with a traditional color palette.

While the v-neck have been everyone’s favorite for ongoing seasons, the crew neck is making a new statement this season. Designers find this to be a more masculine cut than the retired slouchy neckline and standard v-neck of last season. Make sure to look for these crew neck tees in grays, olive greens, navy blues, and blacks.

“Don’t forget maroon and a nice pale yellow,” junior, Nicky Dinh said.

These colors will go with everything and will last for seasons on end. Tailored clothing is making a comeback, so look for slim-fitted trousers that sit comfortably on the waist and end at a reasonable length.

”I really like tailored jackets, and a really cool wind-breaker is always nice for fall,” senior, Nick Bresee said.

Look for these pants in classic colors like taupe, grey, or black. Sagging is definitely out this season, as designers and students alike lack interest in seeing boxers hang out above incredibly loose-fitting jeans. (Seriously, people don’t need to see that.)

One staple item to add to any fashion-forward male’s wardrobe is a pair of lace-up boots. These boots come in thousands of different styles and colors and can be paired with any wash of denim, and has the power to transform any outfit from casual to classy.

“Any kind of boots would do, from chukkas to the classic Doc Marten’s, but you can’t just stop at boots for the fall and winter season,” Dinh said. “You’ll need some oxfords, preferably in a shade of brown or black.”

Guys with a more relaxed, carefree style should invest in a pair of distressed combat boots. They’re unfussy and comfortable, two qualities that all men look for in a pair of shoes. Pair them with a good pair of fitted jeans and a simple knit sweater or a crisp, button-down shirt in a simple color, like baby blue or white, and roll those sleeves up!

For a more sophisticated approach, look for a pair of black leather boots that should not go more than a few inches past the ankle. Wear these black boots with a pair of dark-wash jeans, a simple tee-shirt, and a black blazer.

“If you aren’t into the boot game, some oxfords would be perfect. Both boots and oxfords would compliment any pair of jeans with a button up and maybe a vest,” Dinh said.

Last but definitely not least and not really last either, canvas. Bags, jackets, watches, you name it. It is the material of this season and many more to come with its durable texture and universal appeal, including canvas sneakers with contrasting laces. As a bonus, it goes great with another trend – camo. Yes, camo as in camouflage. While it seems kind of childish and also kind of military, camo is turning out to be surprisingly hot this season. I looks great on shoes, shorts, bags, and when done right can look good on a shirt as well. But remember boys, just because it is all the same pattern, it does not mean that it looks good.

 “I like to play a lot with colors and patterns,” junior, Jalen Steward said. “Changing up my style every day is what I look forward to… I’m known for not matching.”

When it comes to camo and other prints, look for muted patterns and fitted silhouettes, such as fitted camo pants with simple pockets. Leave the heavy duty pants to the soldiers overseas, and find something that fits reasonably well without adding extra bulk. Pair it with, again, a knit sweater in navy blue or a neutral tone or even a white button-up with the sleeves casually rolled up, incorporating basic closet staples with modern cuts.

“I like to switch up my look from day to day,” Steward said. “Some days I may feel like wearing a top hat, bowtie, and a simple jean, but other days I may throw on my favorite tennis shoes- usually Nike blazers or Converse all-stars- with a hoodie and my favorite jean jacket.”

Imagine a student as the next Taylor Swift, or as a music icon walking across the stage to accept a VMA in five years. With the VMAs past the corner now, it has inspired many young musicians to work hard for their goals of getting into the music industry in the future.

Despite joining a band this past summer, junior Savannah Vasquez aspires to be a music video director when she’s older. She is so dedicated to her dream that she now attends film classes at Frontier High School; which has given her an opportunity to see her dream in the makings.

“I actually want to be a music video director and editor [in the future],” Vasquez said. “Music videos are my favorite because I love music and how they can tell stories.”

After being in two unsuccessful bands, Senior Haley Cox is also planning a career in the music industry, but aims for a new direction.

“I have been in two bands in the past. The first one was [called] Organized Chaos, but we wrote one song and broke up,” Cox said. “However, I do want to become a music producer. I think it would be a fun job helping other people follow their dreams and discover new talents.”

A producer is currently helping Jake Tulley, junior, follow his dreams as a future musician.

“I am in the studio right now working on an EP with my fellow band-mate, Alex Kautz. Our band is called Highlife, and we plan to serenade the world with our music,” Tulley said. “My dream is to marry my wonderful soul-mate and make wonderful music in my own studio.”

For these students, music is not just something they dreamt of in their futures- it has been with them for years.

“I first got started with music when I was five, and my dad said I was natural to singing, so I started singing my heart out everywhere I could,” Tulley said.

Savannah has also dreamt of being in a band since she was young, developing her interest in music over time.

“I joined the school band in intermediate school, but I have always loved music and started teaching myself guitar about two or three years ago,” Vasquez said. “I always like to look up information about my favorite bands, their stories, and how they got started.”

These students’ love of music has developed greatly, making a huge impact on their day-to-day lives.

“I can’t go one day without listening to [music]. It’s something that I know I can count on to cheer me up when I’m down,” Cox said.

Storing his instruments in his room, Jake is constantly surrounded by music, whether he is awake or asleep.

“I play guitar, ukulele, piano, bass, and drums. My room is surrounded in musical instruments, I [like to] take time to just walk around the room and play all of them,” Tulley said.

These day-to-day musical routines have not only come about from their childhoods’ as virtuosos, but have also stemmed from experiences that influenced them.

“In the summer of my 7th grade year, I took a trip to Hawaii,” Tulley said. “ After that, Jason Mraz and Jack Johnson were two huge musical influences to me. The spirit of the island intertwined with my lyrical soul and gave an island tint to my acoustic style. The biggest musical influence to my life is choir. It has expanded my musical thought tenfold.”

Women in the music industry have inspired the other students, letting them know that gender doesn’t have to matter in the music industry.

“Sierra Kusterbeck of VersaEmerge has influenced me a lot lately, as well as Hayley Williams,” Cox said. “Listening to Tim Foreman of Switchfoot play bass is how I knew that I wanted to play bass.”

With support from their musical influences and childhood experiences, it will hopefully guide these students closer to their future, and maybe even land them on national television one day.

“I’d feel really excited [to have a video that I directed get nominated for the VMAs], of course,” Vasquez said. “I would feel honored if I was the one who helped an artist get his name out there with a cool music video.”

TLC will also premier a show soon called The Unpoppables, about a group of balloon artists who make a living creating various balloon sculptures for parties and art shows. Then, in the months February through April, stations will be featuring many new shows including Body of Proof (ABC), America’s Next Great Restaurant (NBC), Criminal Minds: Suspect Behavior (CBS), Mad Love (CBS), and Traffic Light on Fox.

For a full list of new shows, check out tvguide.com.

Senior Kylie Arnold and junior Chloe Voreis stared in the MHS production, along with junior Myles Philips and sophomore Beaven Waller who played the male leads. Ms. Thomas directed the play, and Mrs. Vaitekunas served as the Director of Technical Theater. Full of catchy songs and superb acting, this play blew the audience members away this past weekend.

“I was asked to go see the play and I didn’t hesitate because I knew it was going to be good,” junior Aimee Ray said.

After having sold out shows every night for Annie last spring and a phenomenal fall performance of the Musical Comedy Murders of 1940, students, teachers, and people from all over Mansfield have come to think highly of MHS’s theater performances.

Excellence, though, does not come overnight and it took the effort of the entire cast and crew to make sure the performance was impressive. Senior Shelby Lang was part of the musical’s chorus and said that she loved rehearsal, even though they had a rigid schedule.

“We rehearsed every day except Friday until 6:30,” Lang said. “The week of the show, call time was at 5 and the shows would start at 7.”

The orchestra, directed by Mr. Ludlow, did its part to contribute to the performance by providing the background music at some of the most climatic moments of the play. This was junior Melissa Blackburn’s first time to play in the band for the musical.

“For the past month, I was either rehearsing for three hours a day or performing three hours a day,” said Blackburn, “the three weeks before were crazy.”

The amount of effort put into the play showed.  Ray, who saw the play on opening night, was greatly impressed by everyone in the show.

“I thought it was fantastic,” Ray said. “It was the best play I’ve seen from Mansfield, or any other high school for that matter.”

A great performance was not all to be gained. Performing on stage helps one build confidence and have new experiences.

“I made a lot of new friends and I bettered my acting skills.” Lang said, “This play had a lot of stuff the chorus could do-lots of dancing, and I love to dance. ”

Something new to Mansfield musicals was that the orchestra sat and played on stage while the actors preformed around them, rather than using the removable seats in the audience. This set up allowed more seats to be available to the audience.

Blackburn said she felt strange being on stage, “I felt like everybody was staring at me.”

All in all, the musical was a great success and a great memory to be had for all those who were a part of the action. For some senior students, this was their final high school performance.

“It was so sad,” Lang commented, “I cried when I was bowing, but it was one of the best experiences of my life.”

Lang said that she would greatly miss rehearsal, and all the great people she met through theater after she graduates.