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Graphic with question mark over a calendar in front of a Christmas tree with music notes, a record and headphones around it.

Noel in November: When Auburn students start listening to Christmas music

The unique aspect about holidays is that every individual is able to celebrate them differently. While some people are persistent in beginning Christmas festivities only after Thanksgiving, others eagerly await the morning of Nov. 1 to bring on the holiday spirit. There is one major point of contention, though, for all of those who celebrate Christmas. When is the proper time to start playing Christmas music?

STEM: Deer Lab photo 2

Auburn’s Whitetail Deer Lab: A leader in wildlife study and conservation

By Laura Newman | Lifestyle Writer | November 11

The Auburn University College of Forestry, Wildlife and Environment (CFWE) offers many opportunities for students to gain hands-on experience in their respective fields. One such opportunity is with the college’s whitetail Deer Lab – a facility that not only studies the characteristics and breeding patterns of deer but also raises conservational awareness for wild animals.

A woman in a white dress with floral embellishments joyfully holds a pom-pom in front of a red brick building.

In memory of Lainey Anderson

By Katelyn Smith | Lifestyle Writer | November 9

Filled with overflowing kindness and a welcoming spirit, Lainey Anderson made an effort to spread love wherever she went. During her time at Auburn, she was dedicated to including everyone at the table, while being a constant friend in her relationships. Anderson graduated from Auburn this past May with a degree in professional flight from the School of Aviation with a minor in finance. She was also a certified flight instructor at Sander’s Aviation in Jasper, Alabama.

Many students are outside the Auburn University Recreation and Wellness Center. Contributed by Leanne Greene.

Staying active in Auburn

By Margaret Griffin | Lifestyle Writer | November 9

Whether students enjoy late afternoon runs in "The Rec," walks with friends around campus or fitness classes conveniently located near their apartment, there is no shortage of ways to stay active in Auburn. Within the past couple of years, recent fitness additions, such as workout classes or local gyms, have grown to help students maintain healthy lifestyles year-round. These new fitness communities are becoming multigenerational, as they are populated with college students and residents who enjoy a breadth of exercise options.

A colorful children's book titled "Andy: A Dog's Tale" features a cheerful cartoon dog on the cover, with multiple copies stacked below it.

Award-winning animation director Jamy Wheless introduces newest character at Auburn Public Library

By Katelyn Smith | Lifestyle Writer | November 8

Animator, veteran of Lucasfilm, director and Auburn University alumnus Jamy Wheless hosted an event at the Auburn Public Library on Nov. 7, at 9:30 a.m. to introduce one of his newest characters: Andy the future service dog. Andy made his debut in a short film directed by Wheless and is now the star of a brand-new children’s book based on the film.

A bald man in glasses gestures while seated in front of a computer in an audio studio environment.

STEM side of music composition

By Lizzie McGlynn | Lifestyle Writer | November 7

In the world of modern composition, technology is no longer an add-on to music; it is a core part of how it is created, taught and performed. At Auburn University, that reality is shaping a growing program where students learn to blend artistry with innovation. Lee Johnson, professor of composition, has seen firsthand how much technology has become inseparable from the craft.

A boy in a yellow shirt and a girl in a pink dress play pickleball across a black net on a light blue background.

Health benefits of recreational sports

By Katie Gibson | Lifestyle Writer | November 4

Many college students grew up with a background of athletics, competing and being a part of a team. Coming to college can be scary for students who are worried they will lose the competitive outlet that they grew up loving. Luckily at Auburn, you do not need to be a “D1 athlete” to continue competing recreationally.

REVIEW: The Exorcist Graphic

The scariest movie of all time: A review of Friedkin's 'The Exorcist'

By Katelyn Smith | Lifestyle Writer | October 25

Once hailed as "the scariest movie of all time," William Friedkin’s “The Exorcist” follows the paranormal possession of a young girl and the lengths her worried mother goes to help her. Throughout the movie, Regan (Linda Blair) starts behaving strangely, developing symptoms such as vulgar outbursts, grotesque physical transformations and violent behavior. While I did not necessarily find it scary, the practical effects, the story and the incredible performance by Blair really sold the film for me. It is a movie that just feels evil, with its disturbing scenes and the sinister energy that the young girl possesses.

Well Red Sign

Fall food finds in Auburn

By Layla Hyatt | Lifestyle Writer | October 22

A great way to celebrate fall is by tasting the specialty autumn flavors that Auburn offers. From sweet pumpkin desserts at coffee shops to hearty dinners at local restaurants, Auburn has no shortage of foods to celebrate the season.

Movie title, year, and Michael Myers silhouette on an orange background.

A classic slasher: Review of 'Halloween' (1978)

By Amelia Gatzke | Lifestyle Writer | October 21

On Oct. 25, 1978, director John Carpenter’s breakthrough film, “Halloween”, was released. This movie follows the iconic masked figure Michael Myers (Nick Castle), who had been in a mental institution for murdering his teenage sister when he was just six years old. After 15 years, Myers managed to escape this institution and returned to his hometown of Haddonfield, Illinois to begin his prowl for new victims. “Halloween” became a staple for slasher films as we know them and paved the way for the “Final Girl” trope as well.

Halloween Movie Review: Scream Graphic

A review of Scream: ‘What’s your favorite scary movie?’

By Layla Hyatt | Lifestyle Writer | October 19

A masked killer plagues the fictional town of Woodsboro, California, often using phone calls to taunt victims. Taking place in the 1990s, the killer is untraceable, and help is further than just an emergency call on a cell phone. Constantly referencing infamous horror movies and the “rules” to survive a scary movie, the characters tend to still fall into the stereotype of dumb teenagers running straight to the killer. This is “Scream,” the pinnacle of tongue-in-cheek horror. “Scream” allows audiences to connect with the characters and root for them, while also providing ample opportunities to laugh at the meta moments in the film. Whether you are a horror movie fanatic or someone easing into the genre, “Scream” will not disappoint.

Graphic of fall dorm meals, including overnight oats, apple chips and apple cake.

Fall dorm recipes for and by Auburn students

By Margaret Griffin | Lifestyle Writer | October 18

When the temperature drops to a crisp breeze and the season starts to change, so does one’s palette. Hot lattes and warm drinks are now the most ordered off the coffee shops' menus, and iced drinks are drifting back into popularity for August and September. With more time inside during the colder seasons, novelties and new recipes tend to become a trend in the dorms.

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