Toast tops other study spots

  Toast Cafe, located on Vine Street near Johnson Apartments, offers delicious food and a great study environment. The restaurant was called Coffee Crafters before it moved a few doors down this past summer, and the new location is more spacious while being just as convenient for students.

Mamacita fills tacos with flavor

  Taco Mamacita may not be easy on the wallet, but it provides a delicious dining experience worth enjoying. As a fan of Mexican and other Hispanic cuisines, my ears perked up at the mention of a delicious restaurant by the name of Taco Mamacita.

New Bud Light fails to live up to hype

  The hype surrounding the new Bud Light Platinum, which comes in a shiny new neon blue bottle, has proved most disappointing. Disclaimer: The Echo and I do not condone the consumption of these beverages on school grounds.  However, if you are in a responsible, off-campus location, feel free to join in with my observations.

'Extremely Loud' is incredibly good

  The recently released "Extremely Loud and Incredibly Close" packs a punch of emotion in a story of universal loss and grief. The film follows a young boy whose father died in the World Trade Center during the attacks September 11, 2001.   The boy, Oskar, finds a key in his father's closet a year after his death and embarks on a quest to find the lock that it fits.

Appraising time found in 'Pawn Stars'

Critic's Corner

  History Channel's "Pawn Stars" provides an entertaining mix of negotiations, quirky sellers, far-out items, and unordinary employees.  The show takes place within a Las Vegas pawn shop and the surrounding area.  The shop is owned by Rick Harrison, who works there with his father, "The Old Man," his son, "Big Hoss" and Chumlee.

PBS's 'Downtown' delivers daring drama

Critic's Corner

  "Downton Abbey," the British costume drama airing on PBS' Masterpiece Classics, is enthralling and addicting for its gripping plot, dynamic characters and beautiful aesthetics.  The series follows the Crawley family and their servants beginning with the sinking of the Titanic.