Stephanie Sokol

Editor-in-Chief; www.stephanieannsokol.com; www.lifesacupoftea.com; sasokol92@gmail.com
  • Emily Piriz eliminated from Idol, reflects on experience

    Emily Piriz, 18, was eliminated from American Thursday night, March 6 following her performance of “Stars.” The Florida native said her parents and boyfriend were her biggest support system, and she enjoyed being on Idol. The experience and constructive criticism, as well as many new friendships, are what she...
  • Andre 3000 stars as Jimi Hendrix in upcoming film, clip released

    Rolling Stone released a clip from the long-anticipated Jimi Hendrix biopic Jimi: All Is By My Side, which premieres next week at South by Southwest 2014. The movie tells the story of the famous guitarist and singer’s life leading up to fame.  The film, starring Andre 3000, actor and Outkast MC,...
  • Indie pick of the week: Holoking

    At first listen, Chicago indie hip-hop duo Holoking resembles a more rhythmic early Lupe Fiasco sound, meshed with a touch of Kid Cudi. But the rhythms and uniqueness of each song is what makes this group different– artsy rhythm and instrumentals compliment the strength of influential lyrics. Vocalist “MC...
  • Kristen O’Connor eliminated from ‘Idol,’ looking to the future

    After making it to the top 13, contestant Kristen O’Connor was eliminated from American Idol XIII Thursday night, February 27, after her performance of “Beautiful Disaster.” O’Connor, 24, said she chose that song, which was performed by 2002 winner Kelly Clarkson in the first season of Idol, to show...
  • Grape Wulong Oolong: a sweet, springy tea

    My desire for warmer weather was subtly fulfilled this week with the release of Teavana’s spring teas collection. New flavors include Jeju Island Green Tea from Korea, the citrusy Strawberry Grapefruit Xue Long Green Tea, the sweet-smelling Marshmallow Macaron Herbal tea and Grape Wulong Oolong. While all of the flavors were enticing, I decided to try the...
  • Tea review: Tazo Zen

    Lately I’ve been feeling somewhat stressed, so I decided to try a new tea designed for relaxation. While at Whole Foods, I spotted Tazo’s Zen, which is “a harmonious blend of green tea with lemongrass & spearmint.” I’ve tried other sleepy and calming teas, but this one is my...
  • Meryl Davis and Charlie White of Michigan win gold at Olympics

    Michigan residents Meryl Davis and Charlie White took home gold today for Olympic ice dancing. The duo was the first in the United States to win the title. Yesterday, the skaters earned an international personal best with a score of 78.89, according to the Associated Press. During the final...
  • Iconic child star Shirley Temple Black died late Monday

    Shirley Temple Black, one of the most well-known and successful Hollywood child stars, died last night, according to her publicist. She was 85. Known for her signature singing, corkscrew curls, starring movie roles and tap-dancing, Temple Black also served as a diplomat for a majority of her life. The...
  • Indie pick of the week: Emi McDade

    Self-described as an “acoustic singer-songwriter with soul-jazz influence,” Emi McDade has a strong and emotional voice, almost Amy Lee meets Sarah McLachlan. Music has always been a big part of the 16-year-old’s life. Emi, who grew up in a small town near Glouchester, England, came from a family of...