The Hogwarts Headliner, Issue #0

The lights have been dimmed. The spotlights flicker on. Breaths are held in anticipation, and students lean forward eagerly as the silence builds up with tension, ready to crackle and explode at any moment. Big, bold words shimmer in midair, simply stating, Meet the Team. Whispers ripple through the crowd, and footsteps are heard echoing through the mostly-silent room.

The Newspaper Team has arrived.

One by one, the newspaper team presents themselves on the runway, sporting chic reporter’s couture, and wielding quills and notepads. The “oohs” and “aahs” from the crowd are teeming with respect and admiration… but just who is the newspaper team?

It seems that reporter ALEXX SÉVERIN has crawled out of the Slytherin common room for the first time in a while, poking her head out to take a much-needed breath of fresh air. Already a prefect, this green-clad overachiever just seems to want to help out with everything. What’s next, conquering the Quidditch team? Always up-to-date and so much more approachable than people initially think, she’s hoping that Hogwarts students learn to “put themselves out there” and “to try something new”. Plus, she’s claiming that fellow reporter Ami Procoppio is the coolest- well, reporters can only tell the truth, right?

Perhaps she’s the mother of our team. Perhaps she’s finally left the library. But regardless, the lovely DELILAH STEWART has appeared to grace us with her presence, and to put her considerable writing skill to work as a reporter. Hailing from the Highlands of Scotland, she’s already proved her dueling skills and immense bravery when fighting the Masked Man. Maybe I can score an autograph from her…? Her favorites include the color blue, reading, and History of Magic, and she’s eager and ready to document all the going-ons at Hogwarts. A strong leader, she’s certainly taking this challenge of starting an inter-house newspaper head-on.

Meeting people and writing more seem to be two common reasons as to why people join the newspaper team, and FINLEY MCGILL is no exception. Hopefully, the students of Hogwarts will glean something useful, something valuable, from her articles. When she’s not furiously scribbling away, Finley can be found doing just about everything- sewing, drawing, cooking, and especially sleeping- I’m sure most of the students can agree with her on that one. Of course, it’s in her best interests that the students enjoy reading the newspaper as much as she did creating it.

Being on a team as amazing as ours means that you get unlimited access to the brightest minds of Hogwarts, according to DONNOVAN PERRYWINKLE. With all of these ideas and thoughts floating around, it’s a wonder anyone can get anything done… but this first year Hufflepuff’s using all of this potential to write something meaningful, something that hopefully hits Hogwarts students right in the heart, something that makes them feel good. Seriously, he’s such a Hufflepuff- all he wants is for everyone to fit in. When he’s not writing, though, he’s probably off with his friends outside, taking advantage of the warming weather.

Ex-prefect BLOOM SILVERTON, who is as lovely as her name, has joined the newspaper team in an effort to dodge Quidditch, and other assorted sports. In addition to being an adventurous and mature soul, she’s a brilliant writer. Hogwarts is a castle filled with history, both from the past and history that’s being created today- history that needs to be documented, both in a way that’s accurate and entertaining to the students. Or, at least, that’s what she tells me. Hopefully, all this ‘history’ doesn’t include any gossip of her previous relationship with the Masked Boy…

A fellow pianist, EMMA HILL is just bursting with modesty and professionalism. Expanding her circle of friends, she’s glad that she’s gotten the chance to meet new people, whether it be through interviews or through the team. Although most of the team’s projects are being kept under wrap, she’s letting it slip that obviously, the team will be writing about some major events; hopefully, students will pay attention to the newspaper’s articles to be educated on what’s going on around them. Although mainly just a writer, Emma also dabbles around with art and layout, as well as interviewing the students of Hogwarts.

Twirling in with a smile and a sparkle is our very own FROST CIRA, a sweetheart to the max. You can probably find her chilling in her common room or outside on the grounds- but, she’s decided to make her way to the newspaper offices to put her brilliant mind to work. Start singing some old-school Bruno Mars, because you know that you can count on her, and she’ll never turn away someone in need of a friendly smile or a hug. She loves gardening, baking, and making friends, and is definitely the one behind all of the flowers in the office...

On the warpath to document the facts of Hogwarts, FLORENTIA THISTLEQUILL will take no prisoners on her quest towards articles that tell the truth, the whole truth, and nothing but the truth. She says there’s nothing wrong with taking credit for brilliance, never hesitating to sign her name both on fantastic articles and well-written essays. If potential sources would like to contact her, she prefers face-to-face interactions over owls. Of course, the team’s work is top secret, but she might be willing to let a few things slide… Striving to be the best, she is confident that the team’s writing and work will be the best that Hogwarts has ever seen.

Although she confesses that she’s not much of a writer, MARI HAYNES has proven that, to be honest, enthusiasm and an optimistic attitude will take you very far, indeed. “We often get caught up in our own issues...” the profound Hufflepuff says, “that we forget there are so many cool people and places here.” Wise words, Miss Haynes! Whether it’s meeting new people, writing brilliant articles, or starting to call Hogwarts her home, you can be sure that she never does anything half-way or without her full heart behind it.

The regal AURELIA BEZUIDENHOUT has been seen on the front pages before, as the former editor-in-chief of the now-disbanded Gryffgazette. It seems she’s willing to try her hand at writing once more- but this time as a reporter. Plus, she’s also a prefect! There seems to be a trend in prefects flocking to join the newspaper team- don’t you guys have enough responsibilities, already? She’s bold and straight-to-the-point, and she’s sending out a warning- the newspaper team has sources everywhere, so you’d best stay on your best behavior! Hopefully, her writing will teach Hogwarts students to finally stop getting detentions.

What should a student with too much free time do? Well, PERSEPHONE NICHOLAS has decided to join the newspaper team, in between playing chess, taking walks, and spending time with friends. Although she’s reluctant to turn the newspaper into a tabloid, she still wants students to get their news in a fun and funky way- the newspaper is definitely not your boring, conventional black-and-white local newspaper. Like many others, she agrees that being a part of a team is the best stimulation for a dormant mind, and writing with a team helps push writers to their limits.

A sucker for sports, a lover of literature, and an eager team player, AMANDA SPARROW has decided to join the newspaper team to give back to her school community. Working with a team to create something for the whole school is certainly a great outcome that we’re all working towards, but Amanda especially. A brilliant Ravenclaw, of course, she’s putting her mind and quill to work drafting up articles and editing mistakes; and, on top of all that, she’s a good reporter and keeping the team’s secrets safe and sound.

Bursting in with a whirl of color is our resident blue-haired Slytherin, ELENA JONES. Luckily for us, she’s decided to donate a part of her time to being a reporter, when she’s not in the library studying History of Magic or carving wood on the grounds. Her writing has already shone through in creative-writing based questions in homework, so obviously, she’s a strong addition to the team. She’s always willing to help a fellow student out, so don’t be afraid to owl her for any queries or advice!

A walking disaster with the attention span of a goldfish, AMI PROCOPPIO is perhaps the most unorthodox member of the team. A previous member of the now-defunct Hufflepost, she brings both experience and too much energy to the table. Although not the strongest writer, what she lacks in ability she makes up for in hard work and too many ideas. Although she’s usually either sleeping or hammering away on the piano, she’s still prone to random spikes of productivity, and is perhaps the most loyal person you’ll ever meet. Truly, a Hufflepuff at heart.

But what would the team be without adult supervision? Thank goodness BONABÉ BONET is here to make sure we don’t blow anything up. Although he’s usually playing the fiddle, he’s decided that maybe Hogwarts should give the concept of newspapers another chance. He’s collected the brightest and most enthusiastic minds from around the school to make the newspaper team; here’s to hoping that it all works out.

Pets are loving, funny, caring creatures that have been absent from Hogwarts's halls for quite some time.  Well, now is the chance to purchase your very own pet as the pet ban has been lifted! Starting at the low price of five galleons, a toad, a rat, a cat, an owl or even the pygmy puff can be purchased from Diagon Alley! Any of these pets could be yours for company and a little friend to talk to when History Of Magic homework gets tough.

For some, a hole just might be burning in our pockets at this time of frantic search for the one you wish to hold dear. Just travel to the Magical Menagerie, in Diagon Alley, to solve your needs. Once there, take a look at all the pet options and interact with the pets. Tell the shopkeeper which pet you'd like to purchase in a 400 word post, name your pet, determine its gender, and decide its birth date. Now, you can experience the warmth of holding your very own furry (or warty) friend! This amazing opportunity starts May 1st for all students, so save up for your chance!

Do you own a pet yet? Well, some already do! The top three house point earners of March, as well as the winning house of the house cup of March, had an early opportunity to purchase a pet. Some students jumped at the chance and quickly traveled to Diagon Alley to choose a companion.  Members of the newspaper staff had a chance to converse with some of those people to get the inside scoop on pets.

First, Mari Haynes got the scoop from the number one point earner, Scott Alexander.

MARI HAYNES: Hi Scott! Thanks so much for agreeing to be interviewed, and congrats on earning the most house points last month! We on the newspaper were curious to know: what do you think pets are good for?

SCOTT ALEXANDER: Pets are man's best friend! Well, dogs are... we don't get to have dogs, do we? Never mind. But they're still our companions! You can't possibly feel lonely with one of them stroking against your leg or rattling their cage, I think... They're friends for life.

HAYNES: Yes, I agree. Now, why do your like your pet, and how did you attain it?

ALEXANDER: I already love my cat. Did so from the moment I saw her, I suppose... She's so calm and sweet. All she wants to do all day is curl up with me, or have her fur combed- I'm telling you, we're nothing alike, but I adore her anyway.

It's like you said, I got permission to have her because of the points I earned in March. Of course, I still needed my parents to get on board with it, as well, so it took a while! But once in the Menagerie, it was heaven. The people who work there, the Wittickers, are very sweet and helpful. I'm more than certain they'll help everyone find their perfect pets.

HAYNES: What are your thoughts on the ban being lifted? Who will it impact negatively and positively?

ALEXANDER: I'm of course very happy there's no ban on animals in school anymore. That rule was actually the thing that kept my parents (and many others', too, most likely) from getting us pets in the first place. Now that excuse is gone! I have to say I feel a little bad for them, though... Pets are a lot of work. Although I promised them that my cat would be my responsibility only... we'll see about that. One look at her and I bet at least my mother wants in.

HAYNES (laughing): I'm sure that will be the case. Finally, what is your pet's name and how did you choose it?

ALEXANDER: Lady Madeleine! Mr. Witticker told me she was french in the Menagerie, as she is a Chartreux, so I felt her name should be, too. And she's definitely a lady, there's no disputing that. Other than this, it's a very kind and soft name- which I think suits her very well...

Thank you for your time, Scott! Next, Donnovan Perrywinkle got the scoop from a member of the Slytherin House, Prefect Alexx Helm!

DONNOVAN PERRYWINKLE: Hello, Alexx! So, I've heard about your winning house. Congrats! How fortunate that you've been able to purchase your very first pet! What do you think pets are good for?"

ALEXX HELM: She keeps me company, but that is about all. However, I see something such as an owl being of more use, considering it can fly your mail about.

PERRYWINKLE: Very cool! I wish I could have a pet! Now, next question! Why do you like your pet, and how did you attain it?

HELM: I picked a very lighthearted pet, and I think she came in a time when I needed her the most. I believe the correct word would be maintain. I maintain Rosalie with basic pygmy puff care, though she is on the needy side, so I am sure to give her lots of attention.

PERRYWINKLE: Very good. I love that idea! So, what are your thoughts on the pet ban being lifted? How did it impact you or others?

HELM: I believe this is something that has been needed for a while now, and I am happy to have been able to experience it. It should be noted that students with little money to spend will be disappointed to discover that they cannot yet purchase their friend. This will be the most negative impact on our environment. However, I believe everyone who can will be delighted to be accompanied by this new companion!

PERRYWINKLE: Finally, what did you name your pet Pygmy, and how you choose the name?"

HELM: Rosalie! It's a French name, and I'm French, plus the pink pigments of my pet reminded me much of a rose.

PERRYWINKLE: Thank you so much for your time, and I hope other students will follow in your footsteps and choose a new friend wisely! Thanks Alexx!

Finally, Mari Haynes interviewed one more member of the winning house. First year Elena Jones gave us all the details.

MARI HAYNES: Hi Elena! Thanks you for meeting with. Congrats on Slytherin winning the house cup last month! Since you guys get to chance to get a pet first, I was wondering: what do you think pets are good for?

ELENA JONES: I think pets are good for multiple purposes depending on the pet; for example, owls are very practical for stuff like sending owls. Although, I think pets are uniformly good for the mental health of students, especially ones like me who didn't have a family or are still recovering from trust issues. The near-unconditional loyalty really helps the healing process.

HAYNES: Makes sense. Next, why do your like your pet, and how did you attain it?

JONES: I love my little owl because we clicked when I met him. There's this little scree noise he makes when he's happy, and it's just adorable. You attain these pets by either finding them like my friend Alan did, or going to the Magical Menagerie in Diagon Alley like me.

HAYNES: That's nice! What are your thoughts on the ban being lifted? Who will it impact negatively and positively?

JONES: I think there's pretty much no way this could impact anyone negatively. As I've said before, it really has a positive effect on anyone that needs help. Easing nightmares, being adorable, letting you know you're not alone. All important things.

HAYNES: Finally, what is your pet's name and how did you choose it?

JONES: My owl's name is Valek, which I got from the book Poison Study. Valek is an assassin with a wicked sense of humour and amazing skills. My favourite book character of all time, second only to Lalna Jones.

Thank you for your time, Elena! Thanks again to all three of our interviewees.

There you have it, folks! Looking for someone to send mail with instead of those pesky school owls? Want to have a cat give you gifts of dead mice from time to time? Or, feeling like snuggling up to a fuzzy friend? Pets may be the option for you! Now that you have all the information, head to Magical Menagerie in Diagon Alley to acquire your pet today!

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Hogsmeade Bucket List: Where to Go & What to See
Let’s be honest- how many shops from Hogsmeade can you actually name off the top of your head? My guess is- maybe not a lot. But no worries! Here are your top 3 destinations that you should head to once you go to Hogsmeade.

1. Honeydukes Sweetshop.
I mean, come on. It’s candy. It’s perhaps the most iconic feature of Hogsmeade, and certainly a hot spot for loading up on enough sweets to carry you through an rainy day. Candy from both the wizarding world and non-magical, as well as homemade fudge and chocolate… what’s not to love?

2. The Three Broomsticks.
Also iconic, this famous pub is warm, comfortable, and serves a variety of popular drinks, such as the well-known butterbeer or tantalizing firewhisky. It’s basically Hogsmeade’s version of Starbucks, but better.

3. Zonko’s Joke Shop.
A student favorite, Zonko’s is a joke shop carrying many different joke items, such as dungbombs or sugar quills. It’s your one-stop shop for anything related to pranks or jokes. Even if you’re not going to buy anything, it’s still a wonderful shop to take a look at.

Of course, there are many other locations in Hogsmeade, but in my opinion, these three are the most essential to you Hogsmeade experience. Happy shopping!