Eyeopener #3

Check out my article from this week's issue of The Eyeopener about the potential PATH connection with Ryerson!

http://theeyeopener.com/2010/10/ryerson-considers-underground-path/

- Christinaaa :)

Cutting the Costs of Halloween Costumes

Check out my article in October's issue of Futureale Magazine!

http://www.futureale.com/magazine/2010/october/

-Christinaaa

Me to We ft. Degrassi's Ray Ablack

Hey everyone!

A while ago, I had a post featuring the Me to We store opening in Toronto, and I mentioned I would be having more Free The Children/Me to We posts. But, because of busy schedules, I'll have to cut it down to only one interview.

Don't worry though, it's a good one! Ray Ablack, who plays Sav on the hit show Degrassi, took the time to answer a few questions about his involvement with Free the Children.
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1. Why did you decide to get involved with Free the Children?

My decision to get involved with Free The Children in 2007 was really a no brainer?! It was my first year as a cast member of Degrassi and I was eager to soak up every opportunity the show could offer. I just saw the Free The Children-Degrassi partnership as a fun adventure and a chance to better get to know my cast mates. Thus far, I've made some of my best friends, and as an extra bonus, I’ve learned a few things about the global community, poverty, and international development.

2. Where have you travelled to with FTC and what did you do there?

I've been lucky to travel with Degrassi and Free The Children to Kenya, Ecuador and India, and taken part in the building of two schools and a cafeteria/kitchen. I've come back physically and emotionally stronger every time.

3. What was your most memorable moment?

It's impossible to choose one favourite memorable moment. It all depends on the genre of emotion the question demands. Just like how you can't compare different genres of films, or apples and oranges. I've experienced so many different stand out memories - hilarious ones, heart-wrenching and heart-warming, physically and emotionally exhausting, lazy and excited moments that I couldn't choose just one. But suffice to say that each of them is more vivid than any I've experienced at home because of how different and drastic everything feels when you're abroad.

4. Was there anything you struggled with when you went on those trips?

I definitely struggled with many things during these trips. Even aside from the obvious culture shocks that you try to prepare yourself for, just being on your own and completely making decisions for yourself can be difficult. Things like rationing your clothing, products and bag space, homesickness and learning, understanding and coming to terms with the issues you're forced to deal with. Doing this for two weeks at a time can wear on your psyche.

5. What has been the greatest thing you’ve learned?

I think the greatest thing that I've learned so far is to maintain a conversation about international development with friends and family because that keeps these issues at the forefront. It reinforces very simple ripple effects in our daily routines that cumulatively create changes.



6. Why do you feel it is important for young people to get involved with organizations such as Me to We?

I think it's important that everyone, not only youth, get involved in something that affects the global community or the 'bigger picture' because we're all a part of it. Therefore every one of us affects it, so why not do so positively through routes and organizations that are maximizing our potential?

7. Do you have any upcoming plans with FTC?

I am absolutely in love with the Free The Children team and mission statement and everything about the organization. I work with them as a public speaker and I will continue to work with them in whatever capacity I can for, hopefully, the rest of my life. In terms of another trip with Free The Children, I know that the Degrassi cast is embarking on another trip this summer, and I'm excited to find out where to very soon.

*Photos courtesy of Stephen Scott (Epitome)
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Thanks for checking it out!

- Christinaaa

BEN MULRONEY INTERVIEW!

Hey everyone

It's been so crazy out here in Toronto and it always seems like I'm on the go, but don't get me wrong, I'm absolutely loving it! Last week, I was able to have an interview with Canadian Idol and eTalk host Ben Mulroney at the eTalk studio in the CTV building in downtown Toronto. It's funny, because it was Ben Lyons (whose interview I previously posted) who got me in touch with him. So of my time here in Toronto, I've been fortunate enough to meet 2 fantastic entertainment broadcastors - who both go by the name Ben.

Ben Mulroney is very well-spoken and had lots to say. He gave insight into the entertainment industry, his life on eTalk and even his worst red carpet experiences, and not to mention showed an incredibly cute photo of his twin sons Brian and John! I've posted up the videos (well actually, sound clips) onto my YouTube page ( http://www.youtube.com/user/christinaaa28?feature=mhum )but I'll also post the videos right onto here (except the layout makes the videos cut off on the side).

I only used my tape recorder during the interview, so I don't have video footage, but you can listen in on the interview! :)











Thanks for checking it out!
Also thanks to Ben Lyons & Ben Mulroney!
-Christinaaa

C & C YOUTUBE DEBUT!

Hey everyone!

I'm really excited about a new youtube show that I'm a part of! My friend Chris Allaire and I (both Journalism students at Ryerson) have started up our own news/entertainment show on Youtube called C & C. We give our opinions on news stories and we ask poll questions to people on the street!

Check out our youtube channel: http://www.youtube.com/user/CandCToronto?feature=mhum

And join the facebook page! http://www.facebook.com/#!/pages/C-C/155234331175204

We'd love to hear your thoughts on our first episode that debuted TODAY! Also feel free to give some ideas for any topics that you want us to cover!

Stay tuned for our next episode on Oct.17!

-Christinaaa

Eyeopener #2

Hey guys,

Last week,I worked on an article that focuses around programs here at Ryerson that require students to create on demand, which results in lack of sleep and increased stress levels. The article focused mainly on Interior Design and Architecture. Check out the article I helped out with!

http://theeyeopener.com/2010/09/working-%e2%80%98till-dawn/

-Christinaaa :)

Ben Lyons from E! Part 2

Here is the rest of the interview that I had with Ben Lyons!

7. Who has been your favourite person to interview?

I got to do him last night, Matt Damon. Matt’s a really interesting guy. He’s very forthcoming with stuff about his career; he’s one of my favourite actors. Yeah, Matt Damon’s probably my favourite person to interview. I loved interviewing Daniel Radcliffe, Harry Potter. That kid’s awesome. He’s really nice and self-deprecating. He’s lived a really interesting life, I mean; he’s this iconic movie character for the most of it. And Charlize Theron I liked to interview. Those are probably my three favourites that I get most excited for.

8. Have you done print journalism?

Yeah, I write for LA Confidential Magazine. I did profiles on different people from Zoe Saldana to Adam Shankman. I recently did Kristen Bell and Malin Akerman. And I write for E! online here and there. But I do enjoy more doing it on air. I have more fun on TV.

9. What’s the hardest part of your job?

The hardest part of my job is constantly remembering that there is an audience at home that’s living vicariously through you. Sometimes certain actors would come up and my time with them might be limited and I might want to ask them certain things that I’m interested in but maybe our audience at home isn’t interested in. So it’s finding that balance of “okay what are the people who are watching this going to really enjoy” and what do I really enjoy. It’s my one chance to talk to somebody so am I going to ask them something so inside...or say people watching our network aren’t the biggest sports fans so I don’t want to talk to Matt Damon about the Patriots game yesterday, but I kind of do, you know what I mean? So I just have to balance. It’s tough to constantly remember who you’re doing these interviews for, in a way.

10. So you’re here for TIFF. How would you describe the experience on the Red Carpet?

Well TIFF red carpets are intense. The space is limited and there are journalists from around the world. Sometimes it’s the world premiere, the first time the movie’s ever been shown, so you don’t have the chance to see it before. But they’re fun. You never know who is going to show up. They’re exciting, they happen so quickly. It’s a big rush of energy. Every carpet is different, depending on who the talent is. I was just in Spain this summer for the premiere of Knight and Day and Tom Cruise spends 3 hours at the red carpet. He signs every autograph for the fans, takes every picture and talks to every journalist along the line. But then like last year, George Clooney, I did him twice up here. For Up in the Air and Men Who Stare at Goats and he doesn’t really stop. He kind of just does a fly by; a quick little question and moves on. So everybody’s different. And you kind of have to feel out the scenario and manage your expectations that way, if that makes sense. I know if I’m doing a George Clooney premiere, I’ll be lucky to get 1 or 2 questions, let alone 10. But then you do Blake Lively the other night, and I talked to her as long as I wanted to talk to her. So everyone’s kind of different.

11. So do you get to travel a lot?

Yeah, that’s been such a surprise. When I first got the job, I just moved to LA. I’ve been living in LA about 3 or 4 months before I met E! And then I’ve been living in LA for a year when I got the job full time. And I didn’t know I was going to travel as much as I have. And I’ve been to Egypt and Italy and London a dozen times and Hong Kong and Australia. Travelling for work is one of the great pleasures of my life. I love being able to go on a business trip - I’m on a business trip right now, eating pancakes with you. So yeah I’ve come to Toronto like 5 times, Sundance 5 times, Comic-Con and all these great industry events in cool cities and places around the world. Travelling for work is awesome. I also see the power of film and how celebrity is a universal language. People around the world love these movies, they love these actors and directors, and really when you go and travel and see it first-hand, it gives you a new appreciation for it. It’s cool.

12. So where is your favourite place you’ve travelled to?

Australia is incredible. Australia is very awesome. I would love to live there. The people are really friendly, the women are beautiful, the food is delicious, it’s outdoorsy, Sydney’s a wonderful city...Australia’s probably my favourite.

13. What advice do you have for up and coming journalists?

Ben (laughs): You mean for you?

Me: Yes...

B: I don’t think you need any advice. You’re doing just fine. I think it’s being open and surrounding yourself with good people. And it’s treating whether you’re interviewing a huge star or somebody who’s just starting their career, to approach the interview the same way, in terms of your research and in terms of just keeping that genuine curiousity. But surrounding yourself with good people is the key. There are a lot of weird people in media, in journalism, in Hollywood. And you can deal with them, but you have to have that inner circle of good people in your life. Will Smith has a good quote, he says, “You can tell a lot about a person by the 5 people they spend the most amount of time with.” So take a look in your life and look who you spend the most amount of time with. You know, family, friends, but just in your everyday life, who are you talking to, emailing with. And that can give you a good sense of yourself and where you’re going in your career.

14. Where do you hope to see yourself in 10 years?

I want to be really fat on a golf course, chilling. I hope to be as excited about my career in 10 years as I am now. I don’t know if I’ll be on E! I hope I am. I want to be producing movies. I want to be producing television shows. I started executive producing a series for E! right now for our international markets, which is really fun to do. I just want to be excited to go to work every day because then it doesn’t feel like work. Yeah that’s hopefully where I’ll see myself in 10 years. And a wife and kids would be cool too.


Thanks again Ben, it was great to meet you!
-Christinaaa

Ben Lyons from E! Part 1

Hey everyone

A couple weeks ago, during the fantastic TIFF event in Toronto, I was fortunate enough to meet up with E!News Now reporter Ben Lyons from LA. He is honestly one of the nicest people I've ever interviewed and he's hilarious. So, on a Monday morning (September 13), over pancakes (that were seriously the size of his face) and crepes, we had a great interview. He gave insight into how he got into the industry, his TIFF experiences, and he also gave some great advice.

Check out his bio on the E! website: http://ca.eonline.com/on/personalities/bio/ben.jsp

1. How did you get started in this industry?

I got started in this industry working for an independent hip hop label in New York. My cousin grew up with a guy named Dru-Ha who runs Duck Down Records out of New York and I’m a big hip hop fan growing up in the city. And I’d always wanted to work in the music business. So I ended up working for him for a little while and producing music videos for some of his artists and interned at his record label and did all this weird hip hop stuff. This was like the year 2000, 2001 or so. And then from that, I just made a little hosting reel since I was on these music video sets and I was with all these artists. So i made a little hosting reel and we were trying to give our videos to MTV at the time. And I showed them my hosting reel just for some advice and said “Hey I’m thinking of maybe being on camera and doing interviews” and they gave me a job. I had never been on TV before and my first assignment was to go to LA and interview Jack Black, Will Smith and Angelina Jolie and I was like woah. So I learned kind of on the job. And then from there I worked at MSN BC and NBC in New York and then moved to LA about 5 years ago and got really lucky and found a home with E! But I never really thought I was actually going to be on TV, it just sort of happened. And I ran with it and learned while I was doing it, which I think is the best way to learn about whatever it is you’re doing, to learn on the job.

2. So growing up, did you ever think you’d end up here?

Well my father is in the business, he’s a film critic; that’s essentially the same thing that I’m doing now. So I grew up around the entertainment industry and I’ve always been conscious of movies, and TV shows and music and all these things, and pop culture. So I knew I’d be in the business somehow, I didn’t know I’d be doing this. And I don’t think I’ll be doing this forever but I’m doing it right now and loving it.

3. Did you go to school for this type of career path?

I was an English major in college. I always figured if you can read and write then you can do whatever. But I did 2 years at the University of Michigan and then bounced and wanted to just pursue my dreams. This is my 5th time here at the Toronto International Film Festival for E! and I get to interview so many different and interesting people. A lot of them I’ve crossed paths with many times over the years. And it’s still surreal and fun and it feels like the first day on the job.

4. What is your favourite part about being a journalist?

I remember when I was 12 or 13 years old, I saw the movie Saving Private Ryan. And the next day my dad was playing in a charity softball game and Ed Burns was there, who is in Saving Private Ryan. And I was 12 and I remember I saw the movie on Friday night and Saturday morning I sat in the dugout and talked with him about the movie for 2 hours; the whole game we were just talking about the movie. And I was like wow that is so cool: to be able to see a film and then just sit down with the creative people behind the movie and ask them whatever I want about anything. That’s what I really enjoy, just meeting so many new, interesting, talented people. Not just the people in front of the camera, not just the stars themselves, but there’s so many interesting people who work in this business in other capacities. Producers, writers, costume designers, and special effects people, I get to cross paths with a lot of them. So the thing I love about it is just being able to meet new people. Like meeting you right now - I have a cool new friend from Vancouver. That’s the coolest thing for me, is being able to get to meet all these interesting people.

5. You’ve been a film critic for quite some time, what would you say is your favourite movie of all time?

There’s a difference between my favourite movie and what’s the best movie of all time. And for me personally, the movie that means a lot to me is Good Will Hunting. It’s the first DVD I ever bought. I used to dress up with my friends in tracksuits and talk with Boston accents and go to the batting cages. Yeah that movie, it won Matt and Ben the Academy Award, won Robert Williams the Academy Award. It’s a film that’s funny, it’s a romantic film, it’s about friendship, it’s about maximizing your potential. It’s a lot of things we can all relate to and I think about that movie often. That’s probably my favourite movie if I had to pick just one.

6. How did you get involved with E!

I wish I had a better story, it’s kind of just a Hollywood story. My agent set me up for a meeting. I went in a met with them. This was December 2005. You know on E! where they have those talking head shows, where it’ll be like “101 Sexy Bikini Models” so I did a bunch of those here and there. I did some of their Oscar coverage in 2006. And then the Daily 10 started in March of 2006 and they gave me slot every Friday to review whatever new movies came out. And then from there I started doing interviews and slowly but surely I just started doing more stuff with them. And then finally, in like October of ’06, they offered me my first deal there so it took like 8 months, almost like 10 months, of just being around, hanging around and doing stuff. Comic-Con in 2006 I did a bunch of interviews, and that was when they were like Wow we really want to work with you. So that was great. But yeah it took a while, just kind of hanging out and being around and meeting as many people in the company. It’s a big company, there’s like 1000 people in our LA office and another thousand people around the world. So you kind of have to graciate yourself to everybody there. But that’s how I do it.

Part 2 of the interview will be up soon!

Check out a couple of these videos of Ben from E!





-Christinaaa

First Article for Ryerson's newspaper The Eyeopener!

Hey everyone!

This past Wednesday, I auditioned for Ryerson's Urban Hip Hop Union (UHHU) dance team and The Eyeopener asked me to write an article based on my experience. So, here is a link to my post on their website! Check it out! :)

http://theeyeopener.com/2010/09/dancing-through-life/

...And just so you know the results....

I made it onto the dance team!! :)
We'll be competing in November at McMaster University. Woohoo!

-Christinaaa

Final Youthink article!

Hey everyone,

Here's a link to the Youthink website, where you can read my final article with Youthink Magazine! I did a career profile on a locations manager from Vancouver named Paul Russell, who has worked on movies such as Another Cinderella Story (ft. Selena Gomez & Drew Seeley) and Scooby Doo! The Mystery Begins. So be sure to check it out!

http://www.youthink.ca/yt/careers/career-profile-film-locations-manager

Thank you Youthink Magazine for everything over these past years!!

-Christinaaa

What a Wonderful Day

Celebrity sightings from Saturday, Sept.11

Much Music VJs Liz & Sarah and my friend Terrance!

Boys of Degrassi!

Stephen Stohn: Producer of Degrassi!

Rachelle Lefevre from Twilight!

Ben Affleck!

Blake Lively, absolutely gorgeous

Also spotted: Jennier Garner, but I wasn't able to get a good photo :(
-Christinaaa

The Beginnings of TIFF

Hey everyone!


As most of you probably know, the Toronto International Film Festival has begun and the city is in full swing with celebrities being spotted at every which way. I'll keep you posted on the stars that I catch a glimpse of!

Megan Fox: Passion Play premiere @ Ryerson Theatre Sept.10

Rainn Wilson from The Office: SUPER premiere @ Ryerson Theatre Sept.10

Liv Tyler: SUPER premiere @ Ryerson Theatre Sept.10

Ellen Page: SUPER premiere @ Ryerson Theatre Sept.10

I'll keep you posted!

-Christinaaa

*All photos are taken by me!

From Clippings to Cyberspace: 2nd article with FutuReale!

Hey guys! Be sure to check out the September issue of FutuReale Magazine that is up online right now!

http://www.futureale.com/magazine/2010/september/

Here are some pictures of my article! :)

Check it out!

-Christinaaa

First Article with FutuReale Magazine!

Hey everyone!

So, as some of you may know, I will be heading out to Ryerson University this upcoming fall to study Journalism. (I'm actually leaving BC in exactly one week today! Ahhhh!) So, as a little head start to my experience in Toronto, I have begun writing for a Toronto publication called FutuReale Magazine! You can check it out at www.futureale.com

I recently just had my first article published and it was a Top 10 Summer Songs list. Here are some pictures from the website but you can also read an online version at

http://www.futureale.com/magazine/2010/august/

Anyways, keep posted for a new blog that I'll be starting up that'll follow my journey into life as a Torontonian/Ryerson student. Wish me luck!

-Christinaaa

Update of The Belle Game!

The Shore's summer song contest is now over and.....
Congratulations to The Belle Game for getting Fan favourite, with the most online votes!



Also congrats to Zaac Pick, whose song was chosen by Shore 104.3 as the winner of the Sounds of Summer Song Search.



Good Job, can't wait to hear more!
Christinaaa

Meet: THE BELLE GAME

Hey guys,

On Saturday, July 24th, I went to English Bay to watch some of the finalists in Shore 104.3's Sounds of Summer song search competition. Afterwards, I was fortunate enough to have an interview with one of the bands called The Belle Game. Their song Tiny Fires was chosen as one of the top 10 summer songs so check out these videos from our interview and make sure to go onto http://www.shoresoundsofsummer.com/contestantdetailvote.cfm?autonumber=1758 and vote for The Belle Game!






[the sound isnt that great, so you should turn up your speakers!]

Big thanks to The Belle Game!

-Christinaaa

On Set of The Troop

On Tuesday, July 20th, I worked as a background performer for a Nickelodeon television series called The Troop, starring Nick Purcell, Gage Golightly and David Del Rio. Malese Jow (from Unfabulous and The Bratz Movie) was also there for a few scenes, she's really pretty and smaller in person! Nick was really nice, funny, and not to mention, he got to ride a segway all over set :) I was an international student at a multicultural gifted student high school (called D.O.R.K)

Anyways, I just thought I'd share a couple photos of me in my traditional Asian wardrobe (which I happened to own (I knew they'd come in handy someday!)

Overall it was a great day, tiring but still fun! I was there for about 13 hours but I love the atmostphere of sets so it was all gooood.

So if you watch the Troop, try to spot me in an episode called The Triangle!

The Next Star's BROCK ZANROSSO

Hundreds of tweens, under the age of fifteen, lined up outside of Canada Place, hoping to become discovered as Canada’s next biggest singing sensation. The auditions for YTV’s ‘Next Star’ took place last month on Saturday May 22, and I had the opportunity on May 30th to chat with a previous finalist from this past season of The Next Star: Brock Zanrosso.







1. So When did you start acting and singing?
A: Acting was a little bit before singing. I actually booked my first job last May, early May. So I went to auditions starting last year, like October/November ish kind of time. And then I ended up booking a job around May. And then singing, I went to an audition for The Next Star. I’ve never sung in front of people before that, and then I went to the audition and sang there. And yeah that’s when I started singing.

2. Were you a fan of the show before auditioning?
A: Yeah I had watched the first season and I was just thinking to myself when I watched it like “I can do that” so then I did it and I went. And then I went and I did the audition.
3. How did you hear about the auditions for the Next Star?
A: Well, I watched the first season right, so I kind of was looking online and seeing when they were going to be settled and stuff like that, because I knew it was going to be my last chance to go, because the year after I’d be too old. So I was definitely looking it up.

4. How was the audition process?
A: Time consuming. It took a long time, but it was fun. It was an experience in itself, just the audition part of it. And I had a good time. I was there from 5am to 2pm so it was pretty long and then I had to go back the second day. And it’s a lot of rounds but people don’t see it on TV, the craziness of it, but it was fun though.

5. What was the best advice that you got from the judges?
A: I think probably...Suzie. Well it was never shown on the show, but after I left the stage and after the show was done at the finale, Suzie came up to me and she said “you know you’ve just got to keep pushing with what you have because people forget about you really fast if you don’t,” so she kind of just gave me advice to keep going and keep pursuing what you want to do or else you’re going to lose your chance. So I think that was the best advice that she could give me.
6. What was your favourite song to perform on the show?
A: I really liked performing “For the Nights I Can’t Remember,” and of course my own song as well. But yeah out of the covers I did, I really liked “For the Nights I Can’t Remember.” It was the best, it was really fun and it was kind of a challenge for me as well. So it was fun to do my own take on it.

7. What was the hardest part about being on the show?
A: The hardest part was probably the hours. I mean, it was every day, 10-12 hours a day. We sometimes got weekends off and we sometimes had to do the extra, or like 6 days a week. And then we finally got one week off in august, but it was pretty crazy, the schedule was really hectic. But it was fun, because we hung out a lot of the time, and there was a lot of waiting, but it was still really fun. We got to know each other and everybody’s really good.

8. What was it like working with Shawn Desman on your first single “One More First Chance”
A: It was really good! He made it really comfortable for me because I’d never been in a studio or anything and I’ve never written a song, so he helped me with that and then we went in the studio and just sang. I was pretty nervous in the beginning but it ended up working out, so it was all good.

9. How has your life changed since being on the Next Star?
A: I was actually just talking about this with my mom a little while ago. It’s changed a lot. Because now it seems kind of normal that I just have to get up and I have to go to an audition or the recording studio or something like that. But if I think about it from my shoes last year, I would have never thought I’d be doing anything like this. Because I wasn’t anywhere near that. And because of the Next Star, it gave me the opportunity to be able to do all this stuff, that not everybody can do. So yeah, it’s definitely changed a lot. I’m really busy!
10. What is it like when people recognize you?
A: That’s always fun. It’s kind of awkward for them...because I’ll just be like “hey!” and then that person would be like “yeah?” and they’ll be like “okay...” and I’ll try to start up a conversation or something because then it gets kind of weird, but some of them just walk away after they ask me. I think they’re a little bit shy or something because yeah, it’s interesting though, it’s fun always. Then they ask for a picture or something like that.

11. Any crazy fan encounters yet?
A: A couple of them chased my car once. And I went out for dinner and they waited outside by my car for me because they wanted a hug. But...it’s all good.

12. How do you stay grounded in such a crazy industry?
A: It’s pretty easy. I still go to school and stuff and I still see all my best friends and stuff like that. It is a different life but I’m still doing things I was doing last year and the year before that. And I’m still going to school and being able to hang out with friends and stuff like that. But I mean there are aspects of my life that have changed but I have those people around me that can keep me grounded in that sense.

13. So, you just had a show on May 29th, opening for Suzie McNeil, how was that?
A: It was really fun to be able to see her again. Because I hadn’t seen her for, what, like 8 months or something like that, so yeah it was nice to see her and talk to her about the show this year, the kids they’re seeing and stuff like that. And you know, being able to get an inside scoop on the new season and stuff like that. I also got to see Adamo, the host of the show and got to see some of the crew that I worked with last year, like every day 12 hours a day. So it was nice to be able to see everybody again and it was also nice to be able to do a performance for an established artist. Because I’d never opened for anybody before so that was my first real opener.
14. How would you describe your live shows?
A: That one was very acoustic; I just did a two song acoustic set, but actually a couple days ago I went to Langley and I performed with back up dancers and everything and it was really fun because I got to learn choreography and stuff like that and I performed. It just brought a whole new aspect to the show. Like when I was just singing just on stage, there were a couple people watching and then by the time I brought the dancers out, it was a whole new show. People started crowding around and started watching it more. It was more like a festival sort of thing so they could go to different places and different events. But yeah I really like doing the whole back up dancer thing because it just brings so much more to a show.
15. You’ve also put time into helping charities such as for cancer research; why do you feel that it is important for teens to get involved?
A: I think cancer is something that affects everybody. I’m sure that if you ask anybody if they’ve been affected by cancer, pretty much everyone says yes. I think that anybody should get involved, not only teens, not only adults, I think anybody should try and do all that they can to try to help because it’s hard for people. Nobody should have to go through that. I work with a lot of child cancer, and I feel like that is one of the worst things to happen to someone, to get that at such a young age and have to go through that. But yeah I definitely think it is very important to help.
16. Who is your musical inspiration and why?
A: That’s always a hard question because it kind of changes like every three days. But yeah I think if I have to say someone, I like to keep it Canadian. So I’d say Josh Ramsey because I think his vocals are pretty top notch on songs and he does some crazy stuff with his voice. And if you ever listen to his song called Masterpiece, you’d agree. He does so much and does some crazy stuff; he mixes and does quadruple harmonies and I really like how he does his stuff.
17. So your single Edge is coming out very soon, are you excited about it? And could you tell us a little bit about it and the process of producing it?
A: The vocals on it are kind of soft sort of phrasing and then the background music is very up tempo and upbeat. I really like the song. I worked with Hip Joint on it, which is a Vancouver based production company who works with Shiloh and Kreesha Turner. And yeah they did a really good job with it, I’m so happy that I got to work on it with them. It turned out really well. And I’m doing a music video for it on June 2, so I’ll be shooting all day from 4am in the morn to 12 am at night, so it’s going to be a crazy day. But I’m shooting that Wednesday and I’m pretty excited to do that because I’ve never shot a music video before. So I’m definitely pumped.


P.S. Check out some of my friends who are in this video! Go Vancity dancers![Sonny Claveria, Scott Forsyth, Jane Marlinga]

18. If you could work with anyone in the music industry, who would you choose and why?
A: That’s also another tough one. I guess I’d probably say him [Josh Ramsey] too. I’ve met him a couple times, he was on the show too and I’ve met him on Granville Street. He was a cool guy and I would love to sing on one of his tracks or something like that.

19. This is probably a tough question, but, which do you prefer, acting or singing?
A: I think singing a little bit more, just because right now it’s what I’m most focused on. But I really do like acting, I really like TV. It’s fun, the scripts are always witty and especially for comedy, the scripts are always really fun and upbeat. I love to do those kinds of things. But I also really like acting, for the drama sense of it, because if it’s something solemn, it’s fun to do that, to show a different side. But yeah right now I’m more focused on singing, so I’d have to say singing over acting at the moment. But they’re both really fun.

20. What advice do you have for other teens out there that have dreams of making it big in the entertainment industry?
A: I almost gave up. I didn’t really believe in myself at all and I kind of was like “Well I’m going to this next audition and nothing is going to happen and I’m going to go home and...” and I had this preconceived notion that it wasn’t going to happen for me. So I sort of gave up on it. I used to really think I could, like when I was around age 11, and I really wanted to have this life that I have now, so it’s kind of crazy that it happened. So if I had to give advice, I’d say don’t give up because you never know what can happen. And just keep pushing at it no matter what people say because this was crazy for me and it happened, so it might happen for them as well.

21. Finally, where do you hope to see yourself in 5 years?
A: To be still around in the music industry and have longevity is a goal of mine. To be able to stay around and not just be that guy who is on the music scene for a year or so and gets really big and then goes away. I don’t want that to happen so I would love to keep going at it. And that’s a goal of mine so five years from now I’d love to still be around the music scene.
Be sure to check out his youtube channel: http://www.youtube.com/user/brockzan & facebook page: http://www.facebook.com/?ref=home#!/pages/Brock-Zanrosso/148852345755?ref=ts & his official website: http://brockzanrosso.com/
He's on the path to stardom and will hit the world by storm with his fantastic vocals and his passion and determination for singing and acting!
Here's one of my favourite covers that he did:

Thanks Brock!
-Christinaaaa

Dancer in the Spotlight: GREG BAJA!

Hey everyone,

It's been a while since I've last posted anything, but you know, with high school coming to an end there's lots to do. But I did recently have a chance to ask some questions to Greg Baja, a member of the crew called Heavy Impact from America's Best Dance Crew. He gave insight into his experience from the show, inspiration, and his future! Be sure to check out their bio and clips from the show: http://www.mtv.com/shows/dance_crew/season_5/crew.jhtml?personalityId=13384


1. So when did you start dancing?
A: I started dancing "choreography" when i was 17, but bboying and freestyling since about 15

2. What is your favourite style of dance?
A: I love doing hip hop, but I LOVE watching contemp/lyrical

3. Growing up, did you always have the support of family and friends to pursue your passion for dance?
A: Yes they were supportive. I think they appreciated the fact that I was being productive artistically as opposed to being rebellious and being wild.

4. How did you get started with Heavy Impact?
A: I danced with Isaac since about 2004 on Team Boogiezone BREED in Seattle. When he got the call to put a group together for ABDC, I was one of his choices.

5. Could you tell us the story of how you guys came up with the name of your crew?
A: It was actually Isaac, Leon, and CJ who came up with the name. It actually started as Heavy Hitterz, but due to copywright issues we couldn't use it. So the alternate to that was HEAVY IMPACT. Also I think the name really stood for who we were as dancers and what message we wanted to come across

6. How long have you guys been together as a group?
A: We've been a group since October 2009

7. So, before auditioning for America’s Best Dance Crew, did you have any expectations about what the show was going to be like? If so, was it different than you thought it would be?
A: I had no idea what to expect from the show besides the fact that we were gonna dance A LOT and that it was TV, so not everything was what it seemed on the screen.

8. Each week, you were given different challenges, so in your opinion, what was the hardest challenge?
A: I would personally have to say the Lady Gaga challenge was the hardest for us. There were a lot of stipulations to that challenge and we didn't get to work with our set very much throughout the week.



9. What was your favourite part about being on the show?
A: Meeting all the crews and being able to do what I love and share it with the nation/world! There were so many wonderful people on this season, we literally became one big family!

10. What was the most helpful piece of advice that you have gotten from the judges?
A: To stay true to ourselves

11. Do you have a favourite routine that you performed on the show?
A: Our regionals was probably our favorite. It was our first impression to everyone, so we tried to make sure it was as close to perfect as possible! Plus we were super pumped to perform on that stage for the first time!



12. So what were the benefits after being on ABDC?
A: The biggest benefit was inspiring others. We got a lot of emails and messages saying that we really touched them and helped them to get back into dancing when they gave up. Thats the best part. Being able to give back

13. Being a dancer myself, what advice do you have for teens out there who want to make it in the dance world?
A: Don't ever be discouraged. Keep working hard and keep your eye on the prize. The thing that will get you the furthest is a good head on your shoulders.

14. Who is your biggest inspiration and why?
A: I get inspired by everyone who dances around me. My students, my teachers, my crew members, etc. We're all so talented amongst the dance community, it's hard to choose just one! But also anyone who has a passion (whatever that may be) and is pursuing it to the fullest.

15. Where would you like to see yourself in 5-10 years?
A: I want to be teaching all over the world doing what I love. As long as I'm able to do what I love for a living, I'll be completely content :)

16. So what’s next for Heavy Impact?
A: We're just trying to go everywhere and talk to everyone and teach everywhere and be friends with everyone!!! We love and support anyone who supported us, and we want to be able to give back to the world in whatever way we can. We're just normal people pursuing a dream just like anyone else!

Thanks, Greg!
Hopefully, I'll be able to come out to one of your classes one of these days :)

-Christinaaa

Gossip Girl Treats!

If you are an avid fan of the hit TV show Gossip Girl (like me), you will be aware of the candy store that is featured in New York City, called Dylan's Candy Bar. If you haven't heard of it, you'll definitely want to check it out, since it is now being sold here in Vancouver at Holt Renfrew! Last month, I was able to go to an in store meet and greet with the store's founder, Dylan Lauren (yes, that name is familiar, because she is the daughter of fashion designer Ralph Lauren!). She was kind enough to give me an interview in between autograph signings, and gave me insight into her life as a candy fashionista. I was fortunate enough to have visited her New York location on my trip to New York last summer, so it was fantastic to get to meet the face behind the famous candy bar.


1. So what sparked your interest in starting your own candy store?
DL: Always loved candy. I felt there was a need for a store that didn’t exist with candy that I had seen from around the world. And I just started traveling and seeing all this great stuff and thought it would be great to have a store that had all the stuff I loved and that other people loved.

2. How many locations do you have?
DL: We have 5 locations in America: Houston, Orlando, Roosevelt Field, East Hampton and New York. And then we have a lot of outposts like Holt Renfrew and W Hotels...

3. How involved are you in each of these locations?
DL: Very involved. I travel a lot. I design all the products with my team. I really get very hands on so it’s really important to me, because my name’s on the door, to make sure the staff is good.

4. So during the creative process, how do you decide what candy to sell?
DL: I go to all the trade shows and pick different candies that I like and that I think will sell in a certain market. People just love the Dylan’s candy bar brand as well as those popular brands like Mars and Hersheys and Nestle. So we carry so many different candies for different holidays, so it’s great.

5. When I went to your New York store, I notice your famous display case of autographed candy boxes...Who was your most memorable celebrity visitor?
DL: I’d say, I love all; just the fact that all different people come. But I’d say Oprah Winfrey and Janet Jackson.


6. How do you feel that being featured on TV shows, such as Gossip Girl, help your business?
DL: Hugely. People love that show and they think it’s super cool, so they are like, “oh it must be a cool store to get candy.” And then those Gossip Girl stars love the store; they come in on a regular basis which is nice.

7. I also noticed that you sell a lot of merchandise as well as candy. Do you find that that sells as well as the candy?
DL: I think candy is number one, but people love the idea that they can live a candy lifestyle and have clothing that looks like candy and accessories, and they also complement each other.

8. How do you bring together fashion and candy?
DL: The clothing we’re starting to do, the jewellery we’re starting to do...The idea of different colours for different holidays, and different seasons. You know how fashion changes (winter, spring, summer, fall) we have darker colours for winter, brighter colours for spring, in our candies and in our clothing and accessories.

9. Do you have any new and exciting promotions or collaborations coming up?
DL: We’re going to launch a line with Gwen Stefani, Harajuku Lovers, that’ll be big, it’s Happy Bunny. And I’m coming out with a book in October called Unwrap Your Sweet Life, so it’s all exciting!

10. Lastly, what is your favourite type of candy?
DL: I love everything. But I’d have to say...we have really good marshmallow items in New York and I love red gummy candies, so red gummy bears, red Swedish fish, all of them.

Autographed photo!

In Holt Renfrew, at her display

Thank you Dylan for the fantastic interview! Check out the super sweet website! http://www.dylanscandybar.com/

-Christina
Follow my adventures on Twitter: @christinaaa28

Will.I.Am!

Hey guys,

Sorry for the hiatus, I've been preoccupied by loads and loads of homework and studying so I had to sacrifice a bit of blogging. On april 11th, I attended an in store meet and greet with Will.I.Am of the Black Eyed Peas at a store called L2. He was there to promote his new clothing line I.Am. Since I got there early, I was given a t-shirt from his clothing line :)

Entertainment Tonight Canada was also there filming, so I got to meet Erin Cebula, one of the hosts. She was really nice and gave me some tips about how to get into the industry.

Here are some pictures from the event!

Will.I.Am

Erin Cebula of ET Canada!

Haha he called me "Xtina"

It was a cool experience!
-Christinaaa

Q&A with BOOBOO STEWART!

Hey everyone,

As some of you may have known, Booboo Stewart (Eclipse) visited Metrotown earlier this year, and he did a meet and greet! He's great to his fans and such a fresh face. :)

Here is a quick Q&A with Booboo!

1. So how did you get started in the entertainment industry?

A: My dad is in the business

2. Were you a fan of Twilight before the movie?

A: Sure

3.How did you land the role of Seth Clearwater?

A: Regular audition

4. Did you have any special training or prep for the movie?

A: I read all the books and trained really hard5-really great

5. So how would you describe the character of Seth in the movie?

A: I dont discuss the movie but in the book he is really a happy nice guy

6. What was your favourite part of filming?

A: Sorry i dont discuss filming but to say it was fun and everybody was really nice

7. How did you like Vancouver?

A: I really like it there

8. So I understand your music career is also on the rise and you perform with your sister Fivel, tell us how that's going!

A: Actually its me and 2 of my sisters maegan and fivel--its going great we are writing and recording a lot of new songs

9. What is your favourite part of performing?

A: I love it all --the performance and the fans

10. So you got started in this industry at such a young age...what keeps you so down to earth in such a hectic business?

A: My family

11. So you appeared at Metropolis at Metrotown in Burnaby, BC for the George Caseres Foundation; why do you think it is important for the youth of today to get involved in giving back?

A: Me and my sisters are really lucky and we need to remember that everyone isnt and help however we can--it makes everyone better and the world a better place.

12. What has been your favourite project that you have worked on so far?

A: deff TWILIGHT

13. 1. So do you get to travel a lot? Where has been your favourite place that you’ve visited?

A: Probably boston there is just something about the town i really like

14. So when you’re in LA, what do you like to do for fun?

A: Hang out with my fam and friends

15. Have you had any crazy encounters with fans?

A: hha yeah--ive been pulled to the ground and my shirt ripped off and pulled off stage. lately girls have been driving by my house yelling

16. What advice do you have for other teens who hope to make it in the entertainment industry?

A: Never give up

17. Lastly, do you have any upcoming projects?

A: Well me and my sister fivel have an amazing project but I cant talk about it and I have a few films coming out along with ECLIPSE--SMITTY and LOGAN and maybe one called DARK GAMES--and we are booking concerts. Of course I hopefully will be doing a lot of the TWILIGHT conventions--I love meeting fans

Thank-you to Booboo and his father Nils!

Check out Booboo's twitter & myspace!
twitter: MAMMARAZZI1
myspace: myspace.com/actionbooboo

Thanks!

-Christinaaa

THE STEREOS INTERVIEW

Hey guys,

Hopefully you've all gotten to pick up a copy of the latest issue of Youthink (if not, go get one!) and my article with my interview with Pat K from the Stereos is in it!

There is the article!

And here is the full interview:
1. How long have you guys been together before the show?
As a band we were together for 2 years but, basically Dan, Rob and I were writing for a good year before that, just writing songs and stuff. So for this band, it was at least a three year process before we even got on the show. And those guys and myself have been a band since high school too so it’s probably like 10 years of working on being in the band before we got the TV show. But again, after the show, I guess it was kind of overnight, as far as everyone else is concerned.

2. So how did you guys end up on the Much Music TV show Disband?
The way that worked out was, when we started writing songs, we were sending out our demos to basically anybody in the Canadian industry we could get to listen to our songs. And one of the first people to actually like our songs was Greg Nori, who’s on the TV show, but at the time there was no TV show. But when the TV show came to him, he kind of put 2 and 2 together and got us on the show. So Greg was able to get us on that.

3. What was the highlight of the show for you?
I’d say the first time we played and got the thumbs up was probably one of the best moments of my life because up ‘til then we’ve always thought we were a good band but I guess every band thinks they’re a good band so when we finally had the industry professionals or whatever saying that they agreed with us, that we had what it took, was a really big push in the right direction I think.

4. So then what was hardest part of the show?
The hardest part of the show was not knowing, I mean you know, TV kind of chooses what it wants to show in terms of what makes the best TV show, so a lot of people think it was an easy ride for us but until we got the thumbs up we had no idea that we’d even get told ‘you have what it takes’ let alone the record deal or anything that happened after that. So I think the hardest part was just working so hard; I quit my job just to go out and film the show and possibly get a thumbs down just because I thought it was good to get the exposure. So not knowing whether or not it would even work out for us was really, you know, you question a lot, so that was difficult.
5. There was an episode where you guys were critiqued by Gene Simmons; what was it like to perform for such a legendary figure in the entertainment industry?To be honest this is like going to be the worst answer, but I didn’t care. I’ve never been a fan of KISS and I’ve never been a huge Gene Simmons fan either so it didn’t faze me at all. I think it was great to be able to get that opportunity, don’t get me wrong, like the guy is obviously a genius and so any feedback he gives is something you should listen to. But any feedback he gave was just ridiculous, and I think it was cool to say that I’ve met Gene Simmons, but Gene Simmons is about Gene Simmons and that’s it.


6. So what do you think set your band apart from the others in the competition?
I feel like we’ve worked so hard at this, to the extent that we’ve always known what we wanted to sound like and look like, basically what we wanted this band to be, that I think it came across that this band had its stuff together. Just when we put ourselves out there, I mean like, I’ve been working on writing songs since I was 15 years old so once we put the package together and put it towards people, I guess they made the decisions for themselves.

7. So since being on the show, I understand that you guys have changed the name of your band multiple times. How did you end up sticking with The Stereos?
To be honest, it was the first name that like really didn’t have a lot of opposition and it was simple and it wasn’t taken, so that was good enough for me because we had to change it twice and I was so sick...I think that the one thing this band is not good at, is choosing band names. So we had Stand By Me, which I loved, but for legal reasons wouldn’t work, then we changed it to Turn It Up, which is the worst band name ever, so they made us change that, which was a good thing. Stereos just stuck, so there’s no real...I could make one up, there’s no cool story about the name. It’s just, it stuck and it’s simple and we didn’t have to change it so it was the best name ever for me for that reason.


8. So you guys are from Edmonton. How has your hometown influenced your sound or your band in general?
You know what; I think it’s influenced our band immensely in the fact that Edmonton is so isolated and so far from everything else that I think... We go out to Toronto now and bands can play 15 different towns so close to where they live and I think the industry down there is so much easier to pull off there, and Edmonton is so much harder just to get out and you know, play shows. So it influences our work ethic and having to work that much harder, so now that we’re in Toronto...[interrupted by Dan and Robb]. That’s a really good question though...too bad they ruined that [laughing].

9. So your debut album was released earlier in October, how was that recording process?
It was intense. It was a blessing and a curse that the one single took off so well because when one song gets you that much exposure, like we were able to play all these festivals, fly across the country, flew overseas, which is great, obviously a dream come true, but at the same time we needed to put an album together and we had to record it. So it was great, we were busier than we ever thought we’d be, but at the same time, you know, you get one day off or two days off and you’re spending 14 hours in the studio on those days off, so it was really really, you know, it was tiring, but again, it’s like would I rather be working at Winners like I was? No. So it was tiring but very very good to be able to do.
10. What was it like working with Juno Award-winning producer Gavin Brown?
It was amazing. And that is probably the only way to describe it. It was amazing. It was awesome, it was frustrating, I love the guy to death, and I would definitely work with him again. He knows his stuff beyond anybody I’ve ever worked with and he’s a character.


11. Are there any songs on your album that you have any special connections to?Yeah definitely. I think that I always kind of put myself back where I was at the time when the songs were written because like 99% of these songs were all written on my days off from my day job and stuff. Especially Summer Girl, has a huge sentimental value because I remember that was one day off I had from work and I spent the day in my basement just trying to write the song. And so to know where I was at that point, just still struggling and working 9-5, and to see that song take off is huge. I think She Only Likes Me When I’m Drunk is one of my favourite songs too because I spent a lot of time on the lyrics and I’m proud of it. But I mean, they all mean a lot just because of where we were when we wrote them, you know what I mean? We had nothing and then to see them in stores all over Canada, I mean, that’s huge.


12. So obviously, you’re now on tour promoting the album. How has your tour been going so far?It’s been amazing. I’ve been like sick and got healthy three different times, which has been fun. But no, it’s been amazing. I mean, we’ve heard about all the people buying our singles and stuff like that and it’s great to meet them finally. To see the kids who are actually putting in the groundwork and supporting our band has been huge. And to go to a place I’ve never been in my life, like the East Coast and the Maritimes, and come here, places we’ve never been and be able to sell out some of the venues out there and have kids screaming the words back at you is insane. It’s a dream come true.

13. How would you describe your live performance?
It’s a party, it’s just good times across the board. I don’t know, I think that anybody who doesn’t like us must be really boring because it’s just so much fun. And if they don’t like our band, then the three bands we’re playing with, they’re also like the raddest bands so there’s something for everyone. So the live shows have been just fun every single night.

14. It’s great to see everyone getting into the holiday spirit by helping out charities and communities. Why do you feel that it is important to give back and take the time to volunteer?It’s very important because, especially with volunteering and stuff like that, my mom always made me do that, and I hated it at first, but I think when you do something that is for no other reason than to help other people out and not for personal gain, it builds character. So my mom had me doing that from a young age. I liked it. Then my mom got breast cancer and so then I ended up volunteering for a lot of that stuff after that happened for her. I just always feel better about what I’m doing, and nothing selfish, like I am every other day of the year.


15. So as an up and coming band, how does it feel to be thrown into success so early on?
I mean, again, the overnight thing took ten years for me, right? Because of the fact that how much work I’ve been putting in trying to be in a band, so I feel like I’ve been preparing myself to try and do this for as long as I can remember. But at the same time, we’re always hungry, like we’re appreciating this, we’re very thankful, but we’ve never wanted to be a band that had one big single and one album, right? I want to play music for the rest of my life. So I think that getting the success I guess at a point where the rest of the world didn’t know about us yet and then being thrown out is a good point that we’re setting ourselves up to have to back up a lot of big things that necessarily aren’t easy to achieve. But at the same time, I think that we’ve wanted this for so long that this is just a stepping stone for us, hopefully.


16. So what’s next for the Stereos? Do you have any upcoming projects?We committed to...If you buy the deluxe version of our album you get a song a month for a year, so it’s pretty much two albums for the price of one. So we had to keep writing and recording in between all this touring and we’re going to be touring with Hedley in the Spring, hopefully going down to the States a little bit too. And then when all that’s done, we release a new album. So I’m never going to see my mom again.

17. Did you guys collaborately come up with the idea that you wanted to do a song a month like for the Stereos?Yeah, it was an idea that came down from the label but I think it’s a great idea. People don’t really buy CDs the way they used to, so I think that anything you can do to separate yourself...You can either do things the way they’ve always been done and ignore the fact that everything is changing in the music industry or you can try to do something different and try to capitalize on the changing industry. It’s digital and it’s internet based and I don’t want to be stubborn children. I know how I go about getting my music and this kind of thing would suit me a lot better than having to buy a different album in stores. I think it’s a great idea.
18. I see that you guys have a lot of tattoos going on...Are there any in particular that are your favourites?Yes. I just got a Notorious B.I.G tattoo; it says ‘Mo money mo problems’ and that’s my favourite because it’s the newest one. It’s kind of hilarious. And I have a mom tattoo on my leg as well that I really like.

19. How many do you have altogether?That’s a good question but so hard to answer because they all blend into one, right. So I’d say probably 50 different pieces that now look like 2 big tattoos I guess...I’ll say 2...2 tattoos .
20. What is the strangest thing that a fan has ever done?
Oh dear, that’s a good one. Probably going through our garbage. Like we just moved before we left for tour which was very good because people had found out where our old house was and it was ridiculous. They’d be knocking on the door and we’d pretend we weren’t home and then we’d see that they’d be like taking photo shoots on our front lawn, then like going through out garbage. And it’s like ‘what are you doing.’ I don’t know what they expected to find. But yeah going through our garbage is probably the number one thing still.


21. With the Olympics coming in February, are you feeling particularly patriotic? Do you think that Canada suffers from a lack of pride at all? [this question was asked to be included as a quote in the January/Olympic issue]
No, I don’t think it does. I think that Canada doesn’t have the patriotic fervour that the States have, but I do not think that is a bad thing at all. I think Canada has just the right amount of pride. I know I’m patriotic but I’m not you know [pauses] I don’t think Canada takes its patriotic nature in making it, turning it into a huge negative. I think that those countries that get way too patriotic just look ridiculous. So I think that Canada has just the right amount of patriotism and doesn’t need to worry about competing with others. They do it just the right way.

Although he was not feeling very well that day, he still took the time to do the interview and gave great answers. Thanks Pat ! :)

-Christinaaa