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Maggie Arave
Staff Writer Ushering in the New Year often brings innovative goals and changes; a small business in Rigby is undergoing renovations. Christina Christiaens, the owner of Café et Amor, plans to use this time to refresh the café’s exterior, giving the business a different look and feel. The café expansion includes a brand new arcade, designed to attract a broad range of customers. After four years of owning Café et Amor, Christiaens decided it was time for a change. A decline in revenue or “a plateau in sales” began due to her extended time in the area. Building the arcade extension was a tool to combat the decline in customers while changing the outward appearance of her café. She took a chance to fill Rigby’s need, creating a place for all groups of people to “hang out.” Christiaens shared that through increasing her customer turnout she could bring the community together, “regardless of background or demographic.” She explained that her shop “is a place meant to be safe for all who enter.” She recognized that people in the community are looking for fun things to do. Christiaens expects the arcade will “bring in a whole different demographic.” She stated how she expects the expansion will bring crowds together, “the younger kids in elementary, middle and high school, and even adults…” She states she hopes the groups will “play games and be a kid again.” The purpose of the update is to create an environment for “kids and adults”. She hopes her customers will “have fun together and make memories.” Christina wishes to fill the communities needs by creating a new and friendly environment to include the whole community in making fresh connections through her café. Christiaens plans to finish the arcade by the end of February.
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Ashlynn Morgan
Social Media Manager On November 21, 2025 Wicked: For Good, a well anticipated movie by fans that takes place during the second half of the musical, was released. Wicked overall has had such a large press tour with Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande going on tour for seemingly months for this anticipated release. In the first act, it follows Glinda and Elphaba at school and ends with Elphaba being labeled as a witch. The second act takes place right after the first one, with Elphaba being on the run, and Glinda being a famous figure in the Emerald city. In the end Elphaba fakes her death and escapes with Glinda's ex fiancee Fiyero, and Glinda becomes the ruler over Oz. The movie had two new original songs created for it, “No Place Like Home,” sung by Cynthia Erivo (Elphaba), and “The Girl in the Bubble,” sung by Ariana Grande (Glinda). The songs had mixed reactions from people, with some enjoying them and others saying they were not needed. The movie was rated with an 88% on the Tomatometer and a 95% on the popcornmeter. Fans loved the second movie;however, critics were not as fond of it. Reviews of the movie had critics saying the first movie had pacing issues, and an ‘emotionally flat’ ending in the second movie. Influencers online have shared their opinions saying that act two of Wicked overall can be considered boring, and that it is difficult to tie it into the original Wizard of Oz and can take people out of the story. Some other fans say that the emotional connection is lost in act two, and it is very rushed. Compared to the first movie, it can be seen as boring and that Wicked has all of the favorite songs from fans. The negative reviews can be blamed on the stage show itself where it ends act one with an emotionally powerful song like ‘Defying Gravity,’ and then has all the as ‘boring’ songs. The film presents several visual challenges that detract from the overall experience. Throughout the whole movie the colors were un-saturated; making it feel bland, and the scarecrow costume looked like rough CGI. Reactions from the media have been mixed. Some fans praised the faithful adaptation of their favorite musical, while others believed the movie lacked color and creativity. The movie is enjoyable to watch if people want to know the ending of the musical, and can be an entertaining movie to go see with friends and family. In the end, even with the complaints from critics and fans, the film successfully adapts the Broadway musical’s beloved soundtrack. Elliot Goodliffe
Staff Writer The production line of Disney sequels is a letdown, but will Tron: Ares rise up? Throughout the Tron movie franchise's lifetime, it has made $33 million for the first Tron, making it a cult classic. Tron: Legacy made $40 million worldwide, succeeding greatly, especially because of Daft Punks’s contribution to the soundtrack. Tron: Ares, however, made only $140 million. Ares is considered a disappointment in the box office because of its very large budget, rounding up to $320 million in total production costs. Wendy Carlos, the main composer for the first Tron (1982), and Daft Punk, the main music artists for Tron: Legacy (2010), both have provided popular and well-received albums. A strong and praised part of the film was the soundtrack for Tron: Ares (2025), made by Nine Inch Nails. The Tron legacy has always been defined by its soundscapes as much as its visuals. The 1982 original broke ground with Wendy Carlos’ experimental synth score, while Tron: Legacy elevated Daft Punk’s cinematic electronica into an instant classic. Now, the torch passes to Trent Reznor and Atticus Ross of Nine Inch Nails. When Director Joachim Rønning was pitched the idea of NIN doing the soundtrack, he and a few others became ecstatic. In a Fandango interview, Ronning explained that it helped bring the little bit more gritty and industrial feel that he wanted for this movie. However, music is not the only element shaping Ares. Casting Jared Leto as the titular program was a gamble given his polarizing reputation. Yet Rønning insists Leto’s method acting brought authenticity to the role. In a Screenrant interview, he remarked: “Jared lived inside the character of Ares. That commitment gave the film its emotional core.” Ares, a sophisticated security program created by corporate head Julian Dillinger, embodies the tension between obedience and independence — a theme that resonates with Leto’s immersive approach. Visually, Tron: Ares continues the franchise’s tradition of pushing boundaries. Where the original pioneered CGI and Legacy leaned into sleek futurism, Ares appears to embrace a grittier, industrial aesthetic and cinema-level graphics that mirrors its soundtrack. Combined with a cult fan base eager for innovation, the film positions itself as more than just another Disney sequel. Even with Nine Inch Nails’ industrial grit, Leto’s effort, and a wall of hype, Tron remains proof that Disney’s sequel machine can polish but rarely innovate. Kael Beckstead
Staff Writer The holiday season is just around the corner, meaning families in need will require plentiful food donations. People often throw parties, eat food, and enjoy themselves during this season, but there are less-fortunate families needing help. Communities play a crucial role in providing year-round assistance to those who may struggle to meet their essential needs. There are several food drives and donations across the country looking to provide for people in need, many of which can be found in the Idaho Falls area, such as Salvation Army and the Idaho Falls Community Food Basket. Food insecurity is defined as not having enough food to meet one’s basic needs. According to the most recent USDA reports, the total food insecure population was 41.7 million people or approximately 12.26% of the U.S. population. The exact percentage varied but was generally 12-17%, with some U.S. states having an average of up to 21.2% food insecurity. These statistics only include official participants of government programs and do not include all those suffering from food insecurity. While this data focuses on national food insecurity, Idaho Falls citizens are also in need of assistance, particularly in the winter. A recent school-wide survey at Bonneville High School showed that while most students donate from time to time, only a small number donate frequently. Still, the majority of students felt they had the ability and influence to help those in need. People often overlook the importance of giving to those outside their immediate circle, especially during the holidays For students looking to help provide food for those in need, there are two popular and local donations, Salvation Army and the Idaho Falls Community Food basket. Salvation Army welcomes donations and volunteers at 605 N Blvd in Idaho Falls or donate on their website salvationarmy.org. The Idaho Falls Community Food Basket accepts donations online at feedidahofalls.org or in-person at 1895 N Blvd. Idaho Falls and Ammon locals in need can receive food from the Community Food Basket at 351 W 14th St, or from Salvation Army by visiting the building to speak with volunteers or by contacting them online using the information found on their website. As the demand for assistance continues to grow, local organizations such as the Salvation Army rely on community support now more than ever. Maggie Arave
Staff Writer Cafe Et Amour is a family-owned coffee shop that rivals many others. The cafe originally functioned as a small smoothie trailer at Jefferson fair grounds in June 2021. Tucked away in a little corner of Rigby, the cafe gradually gained attention from locals. The cafe is owned by a woman named Christina Christiaen and her husband, and it is located at 186 E Main St Rigby, ID 83442; this location features a parking lot and drive through. It is cozy, easy to access, and has a cheerful atmosphere. The theme is a French, baby pink aesthetic. Students from Rigby High School painted a mural to commemorate the move from the trailer to the walk-in location. The mural consists of a cute scene in Paris where a diner sets the tables for its customers with drinks and snacks and provides a view of the Eiffel Tower. The involvement of the community helped Christina gain more awareness and popularity among locals. The opinions of customers among Rigby and Idaho Falls can make or break a small town business. Any kind of review can also ruin a restaurant's reputation, such as when a woman named Shannon Meacham gave an unsatisfactory review. She states her experience “was a bit disappointing this time. At almost $4 for a dry cookie, she now kinda regrets trusting that it would be good again.” The owner messaged the woman to help keep her satisfied; “Shannon, I am so sorry your cookie was not up to standards. We try our best to ensure our treats are fresh, soft and yummy, even the gluten-free ones!” She continued, telling Shannon that she would “love to take care of you when you return.” Her response shows how Cafe Et Amour is based on keeping its customers satisfied and satiated. My personal experience was wonderful due to having my favorite cookie and drink which always fills my need for a tasteful treat. The gluten free raspberry cheesecake cookie is a mix of many textures that contrast the blue raspberry lemonade smoothie. The cost of these two snacks can range from five to ten dollars depending on the drink size and type of cookie. The raspberry cheesecake cookie was super soft and crumbled like cheesecake crust, pulling apart easily while filling my stomach completely. The cookie base is crisply cooked while still being fresh, contrast to the frosting which is a sweet vanilla with a fruity raspberry drizzle. All of this is included in a wonderful gluten free cookie. The lemonade smoothie has a very strong, bold flavor. The freshness is mainly in the lemonade base, being not too sugary while having the smooth texture of a perfect smoothie. This little perfect oasis is so much different than other shops since freshness and satisfaction is put above cost and making money. Visit this cute shop to find the kind of treats you have truly been craving! Ashlynn Morgan
Social Media Manager On October 3rd, 2025, The Life of a Showgirl, Taylor Swift's twelfth studio album was released, with the album having more of a Reputation mixed with 1989 sound to it. The release generated polarized responses from Swift's dedicated fan base as well as casual listeners. The album drew in non fans and fans analyzing lyrics and songs to find out more about Swift's vision for this album. The album left some fans disappointed, while others were ecstatic and supported the album wholeheartedly. People online had pointed out the album's continuous sampling, with songs such as “Cancelled” sounding like Lorde's “Yellow Flicker Beat”, or “Actually Romantic” sounding like “Where is My Mind” by the Pixies. Bonneville Swifties were asked questions about her new album, with one Swiftie, Ava Falter, having opposing opinions compared to the public. Ava Falter, a junior who has been a Swiftie for as long as she can remember, had a positive outlook on the album, “it may not be everyone's cup of tea, but that is a matter of perspective.” Falter shared that every album normally has this backlash, with it being too pop or too dark. The album has also been controversial for the supposed diss track “Actually Romantic,” that is speculated to be about Charli xcx. Some people believe the song was an overreaction, feeling that Swift's tone sounds more like teenage drama than mature commentary. Falter completely disagreed, explaining that the song has a "come at me" energy that demonstrates the strength she has gained from all her experiences. Before the album was released, no one had any idea what it was going to sound like with there being no singles beforehand with Swift releasing the single and music video the same day as the album. Swift being engaged also scared Swifties because they were worried that her being in love would ruin the music due to the fact that most of her music has been about past relationships and how they ended. Falter enjoyed the album, stating, “I honestly don't remember what I assumed this album was going to be about but after all it didn't bother me when hearing this fantastic album.” Regardless of individual preferences about the album, Swift has still managed to secure top 100 chart positions for her songs and albums, even amid the backlash. Elliot Goodliffe
Staff Writer The Bad Guys 2 has stunning visuals, but just how do they do it? On August 28, 2025, DreamWorks artists revealed their behind-the-scenes work on The Bad Guys 2 during an interview at Gnomon, an animation high school in Los Angeles, California. Starting with Look Development Artist Rachael Yang, she explained that 2D lines on 3D surfaces called “squiggles” were part of the process of elaborating the style of the art and improving the technology to showcase the movie’s technique. To explain, squiggles are used on all surfaces to push the ‘illustrative look,’ help break up the edges of the 3D model, as well as help with lighting on a character. After receiving a question from an online viewer on how to paint in The Bad Guys style, Yang responded by explaining that someone would definitely need some painting experience. She said, “Know your oils, do a bit of watercolor, try some pastels.” She went on to describe how from a production standpoint, it is important to embrace the spirit of each show or project to fully capture its artistry. Yang went on to explain that it helps to imagine yourself as a type of artist. For example, while working on Puss in Boots: The Last Wish, she channeled her inner Bob Ross, imagining herself painting a masterpiece on a giant canvas. However, switching to The Bad Guys 2 completely changed the creative atmosphere. Yang tries to channel her inner goofiness, stating, “I’m doing an outdoor sketch, this is fast, but I only have one old brush, maybe a marker. And instead of wine, I’ll bring a sandwich.” DreamWorks artists used extensive 2D, hand-drawn effects in special scenes. During the opening car chase, all the smoke from police cars and the stolen vehicle were hand-drawn. Even soup highlights and campfire flames were meticulously planned. This careful craftsmanship creates the "professional" foundation that makes their "professional silly" style so effective. Examples of the stylization are the squash-and-stretch of character models, where the animators purposefully deform and/or distort the characters to show emotion or impact. The "professional" element comes from the thoughtful planning behind each cartoon effect. During the chase sequence, a ridiculous mob of policemen pile onto one moped, but the animators strategically positioned the trailing smoke to complement the composition without overwhelming it. This careful attention to visual storytelling while maintaining absurd humor perfectly demonstrates "professional silly." Nowadays, the style is commonly known as hybrid animation, which combines both 2D and 3D effects to elevate the art style. Without it, big hits like Spiderman: Across the Spider-Verse, Puss in Boots: The Last Wish, and The Bad Guys 2 would not give the impact they do now. Additionally, hybrid animation does not distinctly mean the separate art styles of 2D and 3D; 3D can have the look of 2D, like the squash and stretch referred to earlier. This movie is an industry-changing event- hopefully one of many. Ashlynn Morgan
Social Media Manager On August 26th, Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce announced their engagement after being together for two years officially. This engagement has received varied reactions from Swifties and football fans. The Bonneville Buzz staff sent out a Google Form on September 3rd, asking the Bonneville students to share their thoughts on the recent update in Taylor Swift's personal life. Over 60 students responded to the survey. Among respondents, 67% were identified as non-Swifties while 33% were Swifties. Football fans showed mixed opinions, with responses split evenly. Some Swifties claimed that with this being Swift's 13th boyfriend, she has to marry him; other respondents claimed that they had “never met this ‘Travis’ before.” Speculation has been circling around the internet that this could be a publicity stunt to get more attention from football fans and Swifties for Swift's upcoming 12th album titled The Life of a Showgirl. Students' reactions are divided on their opinion of the couple, with some saying it is a fake relationship that is destroying football games, while others state that they are glad that Taylor Swift is in a happy relationship after so many years of messy breakups and melancholic albums. Most respondents decided on the questionnaire that even if they thought the relationship was fake before, it could not be fake now because they are engaged. There were several people that disagreed with the idea of it being real now, claiming it could still be for clout with around 19% of responders believing it was fake. One response read, “Taylor Swift cannot keep a man to save her life.” Many students went against that, saying the couple's relationship is genuine and loving. Half of the respondents learned about the engagement from social media, while others heard through friends or at school. Only time will tell what the future holds for this A-list couple. One thing's for sure--their love story is captivating fans worldwide. Aaliyah Garcia
Staff Writer A cozy environment. A soft chatty environment with the fresh smell of coffee. A quiet library with the sound of keyboards typing. No matter what grade students are in, a prime study spot may be needed to ensure success. For Bonneville students who are searching for the ideal, local study spots, look no further. Starting off with a coffee shop, whether it be a local, or franchise, students can have an enjoyable time studying because it has a great quantity of comfortable chairs and tables in corners. Great Harvest, located at 360 A St, Idaho Falls, is also another bakery where one can often hear the distant chatter of people sipping their drinks and smell the sweet, comforting aroma of fresh-baked bread.. For students who may prefer slight background noise while studying, a local cafe may be the best spot to choose. These places are often described as casual and can be incredibly welcoming spots to read or study for an upcoming test. Next is the Idaho Falls Public Library. It’s often seen as a peaceful place to study—quiet, with others around doing the same, so you do not feel left out or alone. It also has an exciting and welcoming environment. Inside the library, there are different types of seating in contrasting corners, so students can choose to be near others or on their own. A person can feel comfortable having their headphones on and choosing a comfortable seating while being surrounded by the comforting, nostalgic aroma of books. Here, many people check out books to support their studies and feel comfortable knowing everyone else is focused on their own work too. The library also offers various resources and programs that can support high school students with their studies, such as LearningExpress Library and LinkedIn Learning. Finally, the library provides access to computers, which can be helpful for students seeking assistance. The best spot to study in is a warm, snug, and soothing environment. The setting is perfect, the room is freshly cleaned, lights can go as dim as wanted, and a cozy blanket on the bed. This right here is the best study/working environment because there are no distractions. If needed, anyone can just walk to the kitchen and grab a snack. The door shut, headphones in, and all one can do for the next hour is just study peacefully, and be comfortable in the space of their own home. There are a multitude of places to study and work. One should find a place that works best for them. Grisel Gonzalez
Assistant Editor Bonneville High School presented the Spring Bazaar Craft Fair on Saturday April 12, 2025. The craft fair began at 9:00 a.m. and lasted until 4:00 p.m. East Idaho Bazaars have been building memories and traditions since 2011. Over 100 vendors were present for the Bazaar; some of the home and craft vendors included 208 Wall Art, C&B Wreaths N Things, Cottage Lane Store, DMR Home and Apothecary, Farmhouse Essentials, Handmade Wreaths by Lori, HOUSE MERCANTILE, Kickin’ It Country Style, Woodland Orchards, and Woodworks by Nicole. Several of these vendors sell handcrafted wooden decorations, and some were even available for customizing. Aside from the home and craft vendors, there were various food vendors to try while perusing the venue. Inside the school, food vendors like Chocolate Plunge, Gomm’s Warm Cookies, Grandma Twilla’s Gourmet Fudge, Jocelyn’s Brownies, Mini Market Street, and Mrs. Powell’s Rolls were available to visit. All of these sweet treats were prepared warm and fresh to enhance the experience of the buyer. Other food vendors such as Los Tacotes, MD’S Dinky Donuts, and The Corndog Company set up their food trucks on the walkway outside of BHS, allowing everyone walking in to indulge in an enjoyable snack before entering. Lastly, other sellers that shared their merchandise and products at the Bazaar include the Bracelet Babes, Charmed by Landy, Cielito’s Creations, Cleo’s Craft, Crazy for Crayons, Creative Cuttables, CrZkdz boutique, Enso Creative, Everyday Poppy, Idaho Falls Pen Lady LLC, Izzy Nichole Photography, Jule’s Bags and Bundles, Jungle Cuties Embroidery, Kanga Toys, and Tiny 3d Temples. From bracelets, pens and charms to toys, photos, and bags, these vendors provided a variety of items to produce the best experience for everyone who attended. All of these incredible vendors helped create and bring together the Bazaar. Those who were unable to attend the craft fair still have the opportunity to show support to these small businesses and vendors outside of school as well! |
AuthorWrite something about yourself. No need to be fancy, just an overview. Archives
February 2026
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