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The independent student media site of West Linn High School

wlhsNOW

The independent student media site of West Linn High School

wlhsNOW

The independent student media site of West Linn High School

wlhsNOW

Julia Mogen

Julia Mogen, Co-Arts and Culture Editor

While most high school students spend their free time hanging out with friends, Julia Mogen, senior, is out at concerts or the movie theater looking for her next story.

“I started journalism my freshman year,” Mogen said. “My brother was a photographer, so it just felt right. I kept with it after freshman year because it felt different from all my other classes.” Ann Breyne, English teacher, enjoyed Mogen’s writing and encouraged her to continue writing in journalism, which lead to her becoming the Arts and Culture editor her junior year.  

“I just kind of started writing reviews. No one was writing reviews when I started, so I decided to start writing them,” Mogen said. “ I really like movies and music and didn’t like doing interviews. I stuck with Arts and Culture because it felt like my own thing and Ann liked my reviews so she wanted me to be editor for that section.”

Mogen likes certain directors and reviews their movies.

“One of my favorite directors is Wes Anderson. I also will search out movies that I have heard are good or have won Oscars.” Mogen also enjoys alternative music, specifically the radio station, 94.7 fm.

Mogen enjoys watching Netflix in her free time.

“I like watching older shows,” Mogen said. “I am watching the X-Files right now. It’ll take me a while to finish the show because when I really like a show and don’t want it to end, I just stop watching and it takes me years to finish.”

As much as Mogen loves journalism, she is unsure if she will pursue it in college.

“It seems daunting to continue in college,” Mogen said. “I feel comfortable in the way I am doing journalism now and to step up and be with other kids who have done it at their high school, I feel like I will be behind even though it’s not true.”

“It scares me to enter such a good journalism program,” Mogen said. “But I have considered going to other journalism schools or going to University of Oregon to pursue other majors that I am interested in.”

All content by Julia Mogen
Thanks to director Yorgos Lanthimos’s dexterous grasp of cinematography and characterization, the meaning behind “The Lobster’s” freakish plot setting is never lost. While the drama is a little excess in length and blood, it’s modern, but unpredictable feel sets it apart from other apocalyptic films.

“The Lobster’s” deadpan brutality makes for summer’s most peculiar film

Julia Mogen, Co-Arts & Culture editor
June 1, 2016

The idea behind “The Lobster” must have reached director Yorgos Lanthimos in a fever dream. With as much sex as there is violence, the explicit Sundance film explores a future world with a government...

Starring “Community’s” Gillian Jacobs and co-writer for the series Paul Rust, “Love” is one of the most refreshing series streaming on Netflix. Thanks to the clever writing and honest acting, most of the situations are free of frills and corny dialogue.

Netflix original series “Love,” is the rom-com you didn’t know you needed

Julia Mogen, Co-Arts & Culture Editor
April 21, 2016

From their sad and graphic introductions, you know that Mickey and Gus’s road to romance will be a rocky one. Like many of Judd Apatow’s film characters, the immature, mid-30s couple go through plenty...

With two months left until graduation, high school seniors are anxiously awaiting the summer when they can finally be free from responsibilities. These ten trendy alternative songs seem perfect for rolling down the car window and thinking of nothing at all; but their lyrics still hold some truth for the teen in your life.

10 indie records for the high school senior in your life

Julia Mogen, Co-Arts & Culture Editor
April 21, 2016

“Yes I’m Changing” by “Tame Impala” Highlighted Lyric: “There is another future waiting there for you. I saw it different, I must admit.” “Tame Impala’s” album “Currents”...

The WLHS Debutantes posing with their win after a competition earlier in the 2015-2016 season. The team will perform at the Memorial Coliseum on Mar. 19, fighting against other Oregon dance teams for the State Champion title.

Debs advance to State with their heads, and kicks, held high

Julia Mogen, Co Arts & Culture Editor
March 18, 2016

Leading up to the state competition on Mar. 19 at the Memorial Coliseum, the West Linn High School Debutantes have been practicing nearly seven days of the week to perfect their final performance. With...

Following the release of their 2015 album “Recreational Love,” “The Bird and the Bee,” which features artists and couple Inara George and Greg Kurstin, toured across the U.S. including The Crystal Ballroom in Portland, Or. The mix of upbeat sound, honest lyrics and George’s nonchalant essence made “Recreational Love” one of the most ideal pop albums of the last year.

“Recreational Love:” the quintessential indie pop album of the 2010s

Julia Mogen, Co Arts & Culture editor
March 3, 2016

Sure, the last five years have gifted us with albums from masters of pop like Justin Timberlake and Adele, as well as indie newcomers like Lorde and the band “Haim,” but it’s time a different kind...

Popular in the alternative music scene, “Metric,” played a sold-out show at Portland’s Roseland Theater on Feb. 20. The band’s decked out rock show filled with strobe lights and smoke, only enhanced “Metric’s” energy and lead singer Emily Haines’ unique vocals.

“Metric’s” “Pagan’s in Vegas” tour makes a memorable stop in Portland

Julia Mogen, Co-Arts & Culture Editor
March 1, 2016

After five albums and nearly 15 years of performing, the popular underground alternative band  “Metric,” struck the indie rock scene with another hit record, “Pagans in Vegas,” in Sept. 2015....

With an flawless veteran cast featuring Emily Blunt, Benicio Del Toro and Josh Brolin, “Sicario,” released in October 2015, is one of the best films concerning the current war on drugs. While the subject is all too real, the tense thriller transfers us to an unpredictable realm where the police are potentially as guilty as the cartel.

“Sicario” trumps other drug cartel thrillers of its kind

Julia Mogen, Arts and Culture Editor
February 12, 2016

It’s rare, even in recent years, for a woman to play the starring role in films--especially in a police vs. cartel action tale. But thanks to Emily Blunt’s effortless portrayal of the naive yet hardened...

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Featuring one of the best film soundtracks from the 2010s, “Palo Alto” encompasses the modern age with its synthetic pop sounds and alternative feel. These 11 movie soundtracks range from 1992 with “Reservoir Dogs” through 2013 with “Guardians of the Galaxy” and “Palo Alto.”

11 of the best film soundtracks: 1990s through the 2010s

Julia Mogen, Co-Arts and Culture Editor
December 16, 2015

Soundtracks are arguably the most underrated aspect to a film. These 11 films use both classic and original tracks to guide their characters and help story lines. Whether you watch a movie for the first...

Playing on tour for their 2015 album “Aureate Gloom,” “Of Montreal” incorporated lasers, actors and huge colorful props perfectly with their psychedelic songs. The 20 year old band brought old and new fans to the Wonder Ballroom in downtown Portland Nov. 1.

“Of Montreal:” a one-of-a-kind creative experience

Julia Mogen, Co-Arts and Culture Editor
November 17, 2015

On Nov. 1, the genre-bending pop band “Of Montreal” brought devoted fans to the kitschy hole-in-the-wall Wonder Ballroom in downtown Portland.   The second the lead singer and mastermind behind...

Arguably the best part of Halloween, horror movies should be nothing less than terrifying. With films from the early 1980s to currently in theaters, this ranking gives movie lovers a list of creepy and gory thrillers to keep their weekend busy.

13 classic and indie horror films to watch this Halloweekend

Julia Mogen, Co-Arts and Culture
October 29, 2015

“Fright Night:” One of the many vampire films created during the 1980s, this horror-comedy delivers the highest level of camp. It may not have a lot of fake blood like others during the era, but...

Despite the endless crime dramas on TV, FX’s “Fargo” goes beyond the classic murder story. With a perfect mix of 1970s style, over the top characters and deeply interwoven storylines, the adaptation of the 1996 film brings new surprises every episode. Tune in Mon. at 10 p.m.

“Fargo” season two claims the title for fall’s best thriller

Julia Mogen, Co-Arts and Culture Editor
October 27, 2015

The newest season of “Fargo” never fully loses it roots in the morbid crime comedy that Joel and Ethan Coen created nearly 20 years ago and for that, we should be grateful. The series, which aired...

As posting with the hashtag “exploregon” becomes increasingly popular, millennials in the Pacific Northwest are competing to share the most beautiful or free spirited photo on social media. While Oregonians have a lot to brag about, this mindset merely skims the surface of what needs to be done to preserve our environment.

Outdoors to online: diminishing the value of the Pacific Northwest

Julia Mogen, Co-Arts and Culture Editor
October 20, 2015

As our generation becomes further and further wrapped up in the allure of social media, we’ve grown obsessed with the competition of posting the prettiest selfie or, specifically in the Pacific Northwest,...

Kara Lee Kyllo, in between assistant coaches Bethany Haqq and Julia Leftridge, begins her first year head coach for WLHS Debutantes. After teaching at various high schools in Ore., Kyllo was ecstatic to be the leader of the award winning dance team.

New Debutantes coach, Kara Lee Kyllo, brings tenacious ideas for the team’s busy year

Julia Mogen, Co-Arts and Culture Editor
October 20, 2015

Caught up with preparing for the football half time dances and fall competitions, Kara Lee Kyllo, new head coach for the West Linn High School Debutantes, couldn’t be happier with her busy job. “She...

Stumptown Stages’ “Carrie the Musical” based from the classic novel and film, stars two seniors from WLHS. The performances begin on Oct. 22 at the Brunish Theatre in downtown Portland.

There will be blood

Julia Mogen, Co-Arts and Culture Editor
October 2, 2015

Props being maliciously thrown across the stage, fake blood dumped over all the actors, and violent crying are just some of the things you can expect from this musical and what more could you want? Besides...

Dan Auerbach, lead singer of new rock band “The Arcs,” performs from their indie blues album released on Sept. 4. The album generated buzz due to Auerbach’s involvement in other alternative band “The Black Keys.”

New indie band “The Arcs” delivers soulful rock album “Yours, Dreamily.”

Julia Mogen, Co-Arts and Culture Editor
October 1, 2015

Much like “The Eagles” songs from the 1970s, “The Arcs’” debut album delivers visions of Arizona sunsets and road trips in an old mustang. With their gritty but updated sound, “The Arcs”...

After briefly learning french over the summer of his sophomore year, Barinstein dived head first into french culture by living there for the 2014-2015 year. Through his host families and the local high school in Cholet he attended, Barinstein became fluent in the romantic language.

Nathan Barinstein, former WLHS student, returns home after a year of french expeditions

Julia Mogen, Co-Arts and Culture Editor
September 20, 2015

The minute after stepping off the plane in Cholet, France, Nathan Barinstein, former WLHS student, made a promise to himself; at no point within his year in France would he speak english. “I was really...

Feminists at WLHS practice their best Rosie the Riveter pose. The new Feminism Club will commence in fall of 2015 to talk about feminist issues as well as contribute to the community.

West Linn High School feminists establish club for next fall

Julia Mogen, Entertainment Editor
June 12, 2015

With the countless stories in the media surrounding the LGBT community and gender equality all over the world, students at WLHS have decided to step in and create an informational and open environment...

The newest installment in the “Insidious” film series, “Insidious: Chapter 3,” released May 28, features a mix of characters and storyline from the old films with new twists. The film delivered haunting scares but feels a little recycled from the previous two films.

“Insidious: Chapter 3” delivers new storyline with recycled scares

Julia Mogen, Entertainment Editor
June 12, 2015

Ever since the release of “Insidious” in 2010, audiences have flocked to the theaters to see the new installments and their terrifying, innovative storylines. The most recent film and prequel “Insidious:...

“Me and Earl and the Dying Earl,” released in theaters on June 12, features a mix of seasoned actors like Connie Britton and Nick Offerman as well as stellar newcomers like Thomas Mann, RJ Cyler and Olivia Cooke. This coming-of-age drama circles around three outcasts who not only find friendship in each other but learn a few things about life.

“Me, Earl and the Dying Girl” delivers relatable laughs with a side of tears

Julia Mogen, Staff Reporter
June 12, 2015

While “Me and Earl and the Dying Girl” falls into the endless universe of indie films that feature awkward teen boys finding their paths, it stands alone as the best of the year, and maybe even of...

The Northwest is due for a 9.0 earthquake and tsunami on the coast. The Megathrust could happen tomorrow or in the next 300 years, but either way, people in West Linn should prepare for the worst.

Megathrust to pack a punch on the Northwest

Julia Mogen, Entertainment Editor
June 1, 2015

Sirens wail as waves reach up to 100 feet, roadways split and the loss of all utilities from homes seems like the plot of a disaster movie, but for the Northwest, it will become reality. The Pacific...

Released on May 22, “Poltergeist” features a well cast family that must save their daughter from the evil spirits within their new home. The remake nearly follows the 1982 version to a tee, despite its updated special effects and added scares. The new version doesn’t showcase the original narrative's alluring vision.

“Poltergeist” grasps the film classic with little of its zest

Julia Mogen, Entertainment Editor
June 1, 2015

Talking TVs, possessed clowns and cursed burial grounds are both part of the 1982 cult-classic “Poltergeist” and the 2015 remake. While the new version brought lots of jump scares and a kind, undeserving...

James Topping and Ty Szymanski, Class of 2014, finish their trip traveling through Australia and Southeast Asia. They worked at Kingfisher Bay Resort in Australia to save money for travel expenses and for various activities like scuba diving, white water rafting and surfing.

James Topping and Ty Szymanski, Class of 2014, adventure in Australia and Thailand

Julia Mogen, Entertainment Editor
May 13, 2015

After leaving for Australia in Aug. 2014, James Topping and Ty Szymanski, Class of 2014, had few expectations about what was ahead of them. Despite being only 18, Topping and Szymanski found jobs as...

Students began the Smarter Balance testing program in 2015 under the new national Common Core standards. The test has gained momentum because of its controversy surrounding unnecessary testing for juniors.

WLHS adapts to national Smarter Balance testing

Julia Mogen, Entertainment Editor
April 28, 2015

Over April 13-24, juniors took the national Smarter Balance test for English Language Arts and mathematics. Because of the new testing format, like the addition of typed out answers and interactive tasks,...

“The Babadook” was released in limited theaters after premiering at the Sundance Film Festival in 2014. It features a mother and son, Essie Davis and Noah Weisman, as they battle the monster in their house as well in their minds. The unique psychological thriller is currently streaming on Netflix.

“The Babadook” redefines horror films with its simplistic scares and hauntingly beautiful storytelling

Julia Mogen, Entertainment Editor
April 21, 2015

Receiving praise at the 2014 Sundance Film Festival, “The Babadook” has taken the horror genre somewhere deeper into exploring the corners of the human mind. Not only does the Australian film have...

With the array of captivating documentaries Netflix has to offer, “Cave of Forgotten Dreams” (pictured above), “Kumare,” “The Queen of Versailles,” “Hitler’s Children” and “Into The Abyss,” stand out by giving us absorbing stories with worthwhile lessons.

Five of the best documentaries streaming now on Netflix

Julia Mogen, Entertainment Editor
April 10, 2015

Though many Netflix viewers use the streaming application to catch up on the latest television shows and movies, people often take for granted the array of captivating documentaries available. These five...

Students will arrive at the Nice, France on June 21, after spending three days in Paris. WLHS students of all ages will be attending the language immersion school located on the Mediterranean coast.

WLHS students travel to France to experience French culture and academics

Julia Mogen, Entertainment Editor
April 8, 2015

A week after school ends for summer vacation, eight students ranging from freshman to seniors, will depart to France with Spanish teacher Mary Klick. They will experience culture immersion once they land...

The “Cold War Kids” performed at McMenamins Crystal Ballroom on Feb. 19 with “Elliot Moss” opening. The “Cold War Kids” released its newest album “Hold My Home” in fall of 2014.

“Cold War Kids” falls flat in Portland

Julia Mogen, Staff Reporter
March 4, 2015

Since 2004, the “Cold War Kids” have never stopped showing their sophistication and rawness. Through its influential lyrics, upbeat sound and rich singing by vocalist Nathan Willett, its taken control...

“Fifty Shades of Grey” was released on Valentine’s Day and earned nearly $23 million in its opening weekend. The film and book series takes BDSM, a once taboo subject, and turns it into something people can openly talk about.

“Fifty Shades of Grey” dominates the international box office

Julia Mogen, Entertainment Editor
March 4, 2015

Since the trilogy of erotic romance novels, “Fifty Shades of Grey,” by E.L James, swept readers by storm, fans have been awaiting the release of the film. Dakota Johnson and Jamie Dornan play Anastasia...

“Better Call Saul” features Jimmy McGill, played by Bob Odenkirk as he struggles to make a name for himself as a lawyer and eventually as a criminal. The prequel to “Breaking Bad” airs Mondays at 10 p.m.

“Better Call Saul” satisfies fans awaiting “Breaking Bad” prequel

Julia Mogen, Entertainment Editor
March 2, 2015

One of the most anticipated series of 2015, “Better Call Saul,” the prequel to “Breaking Bad,” has exceeded expectations with its funny characters, absorbing plot and contrast to “Breaking Bad’s”...

With a total number of 9,796 movies streaming on Netflix, it’s often impossible to find what to watch. This list ranks some of the best independent films on the service.

15 Best Independent Films Streaming on Netflix

Julia Mogen, Entertainment Editor
February 23, 2015

Because of the endless options, it’s often hard to find a good film to watch on Netflix. Whether you like romantic dramas, dark comedies or crime thrillers, this ranking features some of the most well-made,...

“The Imitation Game” captures both historical and thriller loving moviegoers

“The Imitation Game” captures both historical and thriller loving moviegoers

Julia Mogen, Entertainment Editor
February 11, 2015

Despite its release in mid-November, “The Imitation Game,” is still seizing audiences across the world with its disparate characters and surprisingly intense storyline. The film, which is based on...

The 87th Academy Awards will air at 7p.m. on Feb. 22 with Neil Patrick Harris as the host. The films “Birdman” and “The Grand Budapest Hotel” are leading in the Oscar race with nine nominations.

87th annual Academy Awards nominations ignores a few fan favorites

Julia Mogen, Entertainment Editor
January 21, 2015

With the 87th Academy Awards coming up on Feb. 22, movies and actors alike are generating a lot of buzz due to the release of the nominations. There were 10 spots for Best Picture nominees but this year,...

“Not That Kind of Girl” encompasses life for the modern woman

“Not That Kind of Girl” encompasses life for the modern woman

Julia Mogen, Entertainment Editor
January 15, 2015

Ever since the HBO series “Girls” became a hit, Lena Dunham, creator and actor, has become an important figure for young women all over America. Her raw, honest comedy, as well as her fresh ideas on...

“Wild” brings inspirational memoir to life

“Wild” brings inspirational memoir to life

Julia Mogen, Entertainment Editor
January 13, 2015

Ever since Cheryl Strayed published “Wild: From Lost to Found on the Pacific Crest Trail” in 2012, Reese Witherspoon set out to star in and produce the upcoming film adaptation. From the get-go I knew...

The nominations for The Oscars won’t be announced until January 15 but all these films are sure to come home with awards on February 22.

Best Movies of 2014

Julia Mogen, Entertainment Editor
December 19, 2014

“Boyhood:” Not only was “Boyhood” one of the most explosive films of the summer but it will for sure take home Oscars this winter. The fact it was filmed with the same actors over a 12 year period,...

“Birdman” gains popularity as it swoops into Oscar season

“Birdman” gains popularity as it swoops into Oscar season

Julia Mogen, Entertainment Editor
December 16, 2014

Writer and director Alejandro Gonzalez Inarritu’s most recent film, “Birdman” has generated a lot of buzz with its underdog, indie plot. This dark comedic drama features an array of talented actors...

Popular musical “Mamma Mia!” shines in Portland

Popular musical “Mamma Mia!” shines in Portland

Julia Mogen, Entertainment Editor
December 9, 2014

Ever since the premiere of “Mamma Mia!” in the late 1990s, both the story and the corresponding soundtrack of 1970’s pop group ABBA has exploded in popularity. While the 2008 film adaptation of “Mamma...

“Hunger Games: Mockingjay, Part 1” excites but leaves us wanting the full story

“Hunger Games: Mockingjay, Part 1” excites but leaves us wanting the full story

Julia Mogen, Entertainment Editor
December 9, 2014

Ever since the Hunger Games franchise moved to the big screen in 2012,  fans were both ecstatic and nervous about how creators would transfer the beloved book trilogy. “Mockingjay, Part 1” was...

Return of the classics: vinyl records to polaroids

Return of the classics: vinyl records to polaroids

Julia Mogen, Entertainment Editor
November 19, 2014

Living near one of the most hipster cities in the United States, we’ve all been subject to the “new” trends of the retro and vintage style. But why are things like typewriters, vinyl records and...

Taylor Swift makes a rocky transition to pop

Taylor Swift makes a rocky transition to pop

Julia Mogen, Entertainment Editor
November 14, 2014

Taylor Swift’s first album was released in 2006 when she was merely 16 yrs. old. Over the last eight years she has gained popularity all over the world, with her popish country music. Her new album “1989”...

 “Nightcrawler” kills at the box office despite its offbeat storyline. The film tackles problems with media as well as psychopathic people that can thrive in society.

“Nightcrawler’s” coolness allures audiences

Julia Mogen, Entertainment Editor
November 6, 2014

As the obsessed Jake Gyllenhaal fan that I am, I was ecstatic to hear he would be coming out in a new thriller, one of his signature movie genres. He is known for playing complex, even disturbed characters,...

“Fury” brings realistic, yet disturbing, WWII depictions to the big screen

“Fury” brings realistic, yet disturbing, WWII depictions to the big screen

Julia Mogen, Entertainment Editor
November 4, 2014

When I heard that there would be a WWII action film coming out featuring Brad Pitt, Shia LaBeouf and Logan Lerman, I was stoked. Part of me wanted to see Pitt reprise his role as a tough but suave Lieutenant...

Mary Lamberts single “Secrets” adds fresh new meaning to pop songs. Lambert is from Seattle and has just dropped her album “Heart on my Sleeve.”

Mary Lambert’s “Secrets” brings new voice to the pop genre

Julia Mogen, Entertainment Editor
November 4, 2014

Ever since Mary Lambert was featured on Macklemore & Ryan Lewis’s hit, “Same Love,” she has been known for her support of gay rights as well as for her promotion of self-empowerment in and outside...

December brings array of indie bands to Portland

December brings array of indie bands to Portland

Julia Mogen, Entertainment Editor
October 31, 2014

One of Portland’s most popular music events, “December to Remember,” will return this winter to the Crystal Ballroom. There will be newer bands like Big Data and Vance Joy, as well as established...

English teachers meet to discuss new changes to the WLHS’s english classes due to Common Core. These standards provided to the U.S. educational systems have affected the school in many departments.

Common Core impacts West Linn curriculum

Julia Mogen, Entertainment Editor
October 24, 2014

Because WLHS is already known for having high testing scores, the standards provided by the new Common Core program will not be anything too difficult for students this spring. Common Core, which defines...

“Kinky Boots” starts Portland’s musical season with glitz and glamour

“Kinky Boots” starts Portland’s musical season with glitz and glamour

Julia Mogen, Entertainment Editor
October 21, 2014

From the moment the actors took place Keller Auditorium’s stage in downtown Portland, “Kinky Boots” was a flashy riot. As the winner of a 2013 Tony award for Best Musical, musical goers like myself...

“The Skeleton Twins” a satisfying melodramatic indie flick

“The Skeleton Twins” a satisfying melodramatic indie flick

Julia Mogen, Entertainment Editor
October 3, 2014

As a lover of dark comedies and talented comics like Kristen Wiig and Bill Hader, I was stoked to hear that they were making a film together. Ever since their stints on “Saturday Night Live,” Hader...

“Oklahoma” brings classical theater to the stage

Julia Mogen, Entertainment Editor
September 23, 2014

Complicated romances, crimes of passion and famous songs will highlight this fall’s musical production, “Oklahoma.” “This musical is not just about people being dramatic and bursting into song,”...

The innovative yet dubious comedy of Joan Rivers

The innovative yet dubious comedy of Joan Rivers

Julia Mogen, Arts and Culture Editor
September 11, 2014

Even though she was a controversial comedienne for nearly 50 years, Joan Rivers, who passed away as a result of a complication during plastic surgery, this last Thursday, liked it that way. Known for...

“Panic! At the Disco’s” pop punk brings energy to Portland

“Panic! At the Disco’s” pop punk brings energy to Portland

Julia Mogen, Arts and Culture Editor
September 11, 2014

Since dropping their mid-2000s hit, “I write sins not tragedies,” “Panic! At the Disco” has been out of the limelight until their most recent tour. Growing up I listened to “Panic! At Disco”often...

“Godzilla” god of monsters and god of creature features bring thrills

Julia Mogen, Staff Reporter
June 13, 2014

With one of the oldest movie monsters, whose first film aired in 1954, the Godzilla movie franchise has had huge success through the decades. With the new American movie by the same name, people can relive...

Evening of Excellence recognizes honor graduates

Julia Mogen, Staff Reporter
June 4, 2014

Over 140 honor graduates were recognized at the West Linn High School Evening of Excellence on Friday, May 30. Department awards as well as local scholarships were also awarded. “Every year the kids...

“Cage the Elephant” impresses Portland fans with original sound

“Cage the Elephant” impresses Portland fans with original sound

Julia Mogen, Staff Reporter
June 3, 2014

One of the best alternative bands in the 2000s, “Cage the Elephant,” came to Portland on May 22 touring after the release of its new album “Melophobia.” For only $35 dollars I knew that I had to...

15 best shows on Netflix

Julia Mogen
May 20, 2014

With the nearly infinite number of television shows and movies featured on the best invention known to the modern world, also known as Netflix, it’s hard to decide what to watch. One of the most enjoyable,...

New indie band, “The Neighbourhood” disappoints Portland fans

Julia Mogen
April 18, 2014

Walking up to the Roseland Theater in Portland on April 3. I was excited for a night of listening to the new indie band, “The Neighbourhood.” I expected some alternative listeners, as well as some...

Emma Waibel crowned Rose Festival princess

Emma Waibel crowned Rose Festival princess

Julia Mogen
April 2, 2014

The moment Emma Waibel, junior, found out she had become the first Rose Festival princess from West Linn she burst into tears. “It was surreal, because you imagine how it’s going to go and then everything...

Nathan Barinstein pursues his passion for travel

Nathan Barinstein pursues his passion for travel

Julia Mogen, Staff Writer
March 17, 2014

Since the day he was born, Nathan Barinstein, sophomore, has had the curiosity and love for exploring in his blood. His newest trip will be to France, near Nantes, for ten months through the program Rotary...

Amber Mitchell, a star in the making

Amber Mitchell, a star in the making

Julia Mogen,
February 26, 2014

“I’ve been singing longer than I can talk,” Amber Mitchell, sophomore, said. Although she is versed in both acting and singing, music is her passion. “Acting is the words that you speak, but the...

Coachella brings art and music to its indie fan base

Julia Mogen, Staff writer
February 19, 2014

Every year since 1999, people all around the U.S. flock towards Indio, Cal. where one of the most popular music and arts festival, known as Coachella, is held. For featuring roughly 160 performers, Coachella...

Disney’s “Frozen” brings joy to all ages

Disney’s “Frozen” brings joy to all ages

Julia Mogen, Staff Writer
February 11, 2014

Throughout the history of Disney movies there have been true winners, heartwarming stories for all ages, with lasting catchy songs. “Frozen,” released in 2013 is the most popular Disney movie, profiting...

“God Loves Uganda” sheds new light on political problems in Uganda

Julia Mogen, Staff writer
February 3, 2014

 It was a normal day for David Kato, a Ugandan gay activist, speaking to people about his love support for homosexuals, a dangerous belief to preach about in Uganda. On a fateful day, a group of anti-gay...

“The Hobbit: Desolation of Smaug” is a long exciting  story

“The Hobbit: Desolation of Smaug” is a long exciting story

Julia Mogen, Staff writer
December 18, 2013

Elves, dwarves, Orcs and most importantly hobbits are all the Middle earth creatures featured in the fan favorite “The Hobbit: Desolation of Smaug.” “The Hobbit: Desolation of Smaug” is the...

Oh My Lorde

Oh My Lorde

Julia Mogen, Staff writer
December 17, 2013

As I looked down the line outside the Crystal Ballroom on Dec. 4, all I could see were girls around 15 wearing combat boots and military jackets. In the bitter cold everyone was excitedly waiting to see...

Eminem's new album leaves a bland taste

Eminem’s new album leaves a bland taste

Julia Mogen, Staff Writer
November 20, 2013

Since the mid-90’s, Eminem has captured people with his gritty, unpredictable and surprisingly funny raps. Unfortunately, “Eminem-Marshall Mathers LP2” released on Nov. 1 doesn’t demonstrate his...

Band and orchestra students qualify for All-State Band and Orchestra auditions

Julia Mogen, Staff writer
November 15, 2013

Twenty-seven West Linn High School musicians qualified to audition for the All-State Band and Orchestra in January which will be held at the Hult Center in Eugene, Ore. Nearly 1,000 students auditioned...

Anna-Maria is a neurosurgeon in the making

Anna-Maria is a neurosurgeon in the making

Julia Mogen, Staff writer
November 13, 2013

  With a current GPA of 4.154, you would think Anna-Maria Hartner, sophomore, wouldn’t have much free time, yet somehow she manages to fit music, new languages, and helping others into her busy...

"Into the Woods" takes the stage as this year's musical

“Into the Woods” takes the stage as this year’s musical

Julia Mogen
October 28, 2013

Singing, dancing, and fairy tales characters are all part of the new high energy musical “Into the Woods” at West Linn High School, which opens on Nov. 7. “The actors are so talented, and eager...

Sloppy rehashes of original films cheat viewers

Julia Mogen
October 9, 2013

  People are caught in the hype of seeing their favorite characters again in sequels but often have their dreams dashed when they realize it is only a sloppy rehash. Scary movies are repeat offenders...

Gravity, a journey through space and spirit

Gravity, a journey through space and spirit

Julia Mogen
October 8, 2013

As I shuffled into the theater I expected to spend my next hour and a half watching an overrated action flick set in soundless, dull space. Ironically, the simplistic concept of deep space is actually...

Freshman lands a spot in Symphonic Choir

Freshman lands a spot in Symphonic Choir

Julia Mogen
October 1, 2013

Sauntering into the choir room, looking around not knowing what to expect, but ready to do the one thing Zac Woodworth, freshman knows best, singing. That is what he feels he was born to do. Not only...

Madison Walters’ art is on the road to victory

Julia Mogen
February 22, 2013

After entering 13 of her art pieces online to the Scholastic Art and Writing Awards, Madison Walters, sophomore, was ecstatic when she found out three of her pieces won. “I was really excited, and also...

Pastini Pastaria creates a tasty oasis

Pastini Pastaria creates a tasty oasis

Julia Mogen
January 10, 2013

Located on the corner of SW Taylor in Portland, Pastini Pastaria offers a cozy space and tasty food to escape from the rain outside. Warm jazz music and the friendly host’s smile made it very welcoming. The...

Les Miserables brings musical success to the big screen

Julia Mogen
December 18, 2012

The story of sacrifice, hope and passion has captured 60 million viewers worldwide. “Les Miserables” is the world's longest running musical and now it is becoming a major motion picture. The play has...

Movies create relaxation from madness over Thanksgiving Break

Movies create relaxation from madness over Thanksgiving Break

Julia Mogen
December 7, 2012

Every year around Thanksgiving, with all the shopping and prepping for the Holidays, it can become really hectic. With all the good movies that came out recently people were looking for a way to avoid...

Social Networking Ruins Interaction

Social Networking Ruins Interaction

Julia Mogen
December 5, 2012

Ever since social networking sites have become popular, they have created problems with their users. These sites let people lie and manipulate others. People can lie about who they are, and can type things...

West Linn is holding out for a hero: Homecoming week

Julia Mogen
October 8, 2012

The hype of the game, the decorations and the dance - these are the things students most look forward to when it comes to Homecoming. The Associated Student Body, the group of students who help make Homecoming...

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Julia Mogen