Wishes by The Eagle Advertising Department

2011

SUNDAY • NOVEMBER 20, 2011

Publisher | Jim Wilson Display Advertising Manager Joanne R. Patranella Special Projects Coordinator Dawn Goodall Creative Services Manager Jim Bob McKown

Wishes : HOLIDAY HAPPENINGS AND FESTIVE GIFT GUIDE

Special Projects Editor | Billy Mau Section Designer Courtney Lewellen

table of

Contents Five ways to make Holiday Entertaining easy fun in the snow at holiday magic christmas in the park gets a new home b-cs christmas parade celebrates 85th year holiday trivia Kids and gifts how much is too much? tis the season for...

Limited Edition 2011 Midnight Heart Charm AVAILABLE NOVEMBER 25, 2011 FOR A LIMITED TIME ONLY.*

*See our store for details. Good while supplies last.

1501 University Drive E Suite 100 • College Station Starbucks Center across from Home Depot 979.691.0677 2

events ongoing dec. 2 & 3 dec. 2 & 3 dec. 10

dec 1

Holiday Magic – 5:30 – 8:30 p.m. at Sue Haswell Memorial Park. Activities include Frosty’s Funland, prize drawings, pictures with Santa, live entertainment and sledding on a snowcovered hill. For more information, call 979-209-5528.

Bellville’s Small Town Christmas - A longstanding tradition in the community and all are invited you to join the 29th Annual Small Town christmas celebration. Small Town christmas comes to life Friday, Dec. 2 with the Holiday Baking contest & Sale, Late Night Shopping. Saturday events include Breakfast with Santa at Newman’s Bakery, Pictures with Santa, Gingerbread House Decorating, and the children’s Wonderland. Over 90 Market Day Vendors. call the Bellville chamber of commerce at 979-8653407 or email info@ smalltownchristmas.org for information.

Christmas Stroll in the Park – Bryan, 6 pm. Enjoy the sites and sounds of Christmas with a step back in time at Heritage Park in Bryan. Musical entertainment, a mini Historical Home Christmas Tour and refreshments. Tickets for the home tour will be available in the Park for $5. Event sponsored by the Brazos Heritage Society.

Christmas in the Square – Downtown caldwell. Join friends, family and the community on the square at 6pm for the official lighting ceremony that will be followed by song and dance from local dance, church, community, and school groups. The evening will end with a visit from Santa and Rudolph. Saturday events include a 5k run, car show, gingerbread house contest, washer pitching and songwriter showcaes. For more information, call 979-567-0000.

dec. 10

Navasota Holiday Celebration – 6:30 pm, outside of the new Municipal Building. The first lighted holiday parade hosted by the Navasota Chamber of commerce. Parade goes through historic downtown Navasota. Free event. call 936-825-6475 for info.

dec. 3

Santaville Parade – Somerville, 3 pm. Get in the Christmas spirit with a hometown parade and to meet Santa. Don’t miss pictures with Santa. For more information, call 596-2383.

SUNDAY • NOVEMBER 20, 2011

Christmas at the Creek – Wolf Pen Creek, college Station. Holiday celebration nights are Dec 2, 3, 9 and 10 from 6 – 9 pm. Enjoy live performances, hayrides, pictures with Santa and free cookies and hot cocoa. Free parking at Post Oak Mall. christmas lights up every night throughout December. For information, call 979-764-3486.

Wishes : HOLIDAY HAPPENINGS AND FESTIVE GIFT GUIDE

Calendar of

Christmas 2011 - Gifts for all the Family 693-8269 2553 Texas Avenue South College Station

1911 Store Hours: Monday through Friday 9:30am - 7pm Saturday 9:30am - 6pm, and Sunday 12pm - 5pm

2011 3

SUNDAY • NOVEMBER 20, 2011

Wishes : HOLIDAY HAPPENINGS AND FESTIVE GIFT GUIDE

Holiday hazards to avoid to help keep pets safe

he holiday season is filled with a frenzy of activities from decorating the house to baking sweets to gift buying and wrapping. Adding decorations to your mantel or front yard adds a festive look to your house, but pet owners should also take a moment during the busy decorating season to examine how they make the season bright - and safe - for their pets and families. According to new research from CSA International, a global testing and certification organization, 60 percent of pet owners are concerned about their pet’s safety when leaving them alone in a house. Three in 10 Americans have either experienced or know someone who has experienced a holiday decorations-related accident with a pet that required a trip to the vet’s office. While the types of accidents varied, it’s important to remember these CSA International holiday safety tips to help keep your pets and family safe.

• Cords are not chew toys:

But, sometimes you can’t prevent your pet from sneaking a sniff. Carefully

inspect holiday light strings yearly and discard any with frayed cords, cracked lamp holders or loose connections. Ensuring that all holiday decorations are in proper working order and all cords are fully insulated are important steps to avoiding electrical and fire hazards and keeping pets safe when you’re away.

• Up, up and away: When decorating a tree or other indoor areas, place breakable ornaments and electrical decorations up high to protect both small children and pets. It’s also important to keep potentially deadly ingestible items out of pets’ reach, such as chocolate, poinsettias, tinsel and colorful ornaments that may look like a ball or toy. • Spot the mark to keep Spot safe: When

purchasing light strings, extension cords or electrical decorations, look for a certification mark such as one from CSA International. This provides assurance that products are tested and certified to applicable standards for safety and performance.

• Fresh or fake, be safe:

make sure it’s fresh. Fresh trees are less likely to dry out and become a fire hazard. Artificial trees with electrical lights should have a certification mark on them and should be made of fire-resistant materials. Pet owners should tether their Christmas tree to a wall to avoid tipping.

• No sparks for Sparky:

Whenever possible, protect family and pets from electric shock by connecting all outdoor lighting into receptacles protected by weatherproof ground fault circuit interrupters.

• Holiday time is battery time: Make the holidays

your time to check your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors and other safety devices and replace batteries if needed.

• Cat and canine candle concerns: Don’t leave lighted

candles unattended. Pets may burn themselves or cause a fire if they knock candles over. Be sure to use appropriate candle holders, placed on a stable surface, and keep away from combustibles. And if you leave the room, blow the candle out.

• Safe storage: After the holidays, wrap and store lights and decorations in their original packaging, as they likely contain

manufacturer’s instructions on replacement bulbs and details for proper product use. Keep pets away from packages as well as your gift wrapping area. Swallowed string, ribbon, plastic, and even wrapping paper can lead to intestinal blockage and require a trip to the vet. More tips for a safe holiday season that’s fun for you and your pets can be found at www.csaholiday. com.

Singing Cadets • Women’s Chorus • Century Singers and

Texas A&M University Presents

THE HOLIDAY SPIRIT Of AggIELAND

If you buy a real tree,

Make Her Eyes Sparkle and Shine this Christmas A Chamila bracelet or necklace created, just for her. Sized to fit, beads for every occasion and personality created in sterling silver or 14 kt gold, murano glass, swarvoski crystal and cubic zirconium [Gift Certificates Available] A&M bead Available Fits all bracelet brands

212 S. Echols • Caldwell 979-567-3504

THE ANNUAL CHORAL HOLIDAY CONCERT December 4, 2011 at 3:00 PM in Rudder Auditorium

MSC Box Office: 979.845.1234 AdvAnCe TiCkeTS $5 Or $8 AT The dOOr

holiday entertaining

easy W

make a plan

Take some time to really plan out the event. How many are coming? What’s on the menu? How should the house look? Make a to-do list and set deadlines. Doing as much as possible in advance will make the day of the party that much easier. Better yet, delegate some of the work. “Enlist the help of your family,” Bean advises. “Even preschoolers can help put away groceries, wash veggies or fold napkins. If a guest asks if she can bring something, let her. People love to feel useful, and it gives you one less thing to do.”

gatHer your tools

Once the menu is set, review your tableware, serving dishes and cookware to make sure you have what you need. Borrow or purchase what you’re missing. Among today’s options is a growing array of cookware designed to go seamlessly and beautifully from oven or stovetop to even the most formal table,

saving time, money and clean-up.

make tHe most oF your space

The size of the meal may expand during the holidays, but cooking and serving space doesn’t. A countertop toaster oven or high-wattage double burner can be a lifesaver for expanding oven and stovetop capacity. On the buffet table, tiered servers hold appetizers and desserts vertically, rather than horizontally, saving valuable space and creating an attractive display.

decorate For tHe senses

Involve all the senses in your decorating scheme. Enlist a spouse or older child to come up with a holiday music playlist or CD. Be sure to include instrumental pieces to play during dinner so it won’t

impede conversation. Fill the house with holiday scents, such as cinnamon, mulberry or evergreen. Scented candles are an easy and attractive way to provide fragrance and a warm glow to any room, and candlelight makes your guests look 10 years younger. Bean warns, however, against putting candles in high-traffic areas. Today’s flameless scented candles are so realistic, with LED bulbs that glow and flicker like a real flame, chances are your guests won’t even notice the difference. And they provide a great alternative to placing real candles near curtains, Christmas trees or other decorations.

enJoy tHe results

Don’t be so busy playing hostess that you forget to enjoy yourself. Bean

recommends organizing the kitchen so that the bulk of the clean-up can be done later. Have storage containers handy for leftovers, designate an area in the kitchen for dirty dishes, and then forget about the rest. The host sets the tone of the party. Forget about perfection and keep the focus on what matters family and friends. You

may find yours is the party that people look forward to throughout the year. To browse through hundreds of seasonal kitchen, home and entertaining ideas, or request a copy of Ginny’s holiday catalog, log on to www.Ginnys.com or call 1-800-693-0809. You can also find Ginny’s on Facebook.

SUNDAY • NOVEMBER 20, 2011

hether hosting a holiday meal for the family or an open house for the neighborhood, entertaining can be stressful - especially during the holidays when there’s so much pressure to make everything perfect. Ginny Bean, founder of Ginny’s catalog and Ginnys.com, offers some simple tips on how to make entertaining more enjoyable for all involved.

Wishes : HOLIDAY HAPPENINGS AND FESTIVE GIFT GUIDE

FIVE WAYS TO MAkE

Make Mom’s

Holiday Wishes Come True!

. Holiday Menu Items Tamale Casseroles • Enchilada Casseroles Chips and Hot Sauce (by the gallon as well) Tamales by the dozen • Breakfast Catering Custom menu catering • Fajitas Tea by the Gallon SERVING THE BEST MEXICAN FOOD IN THE BRAZOS VALLEY SINCE 1978!

Closed for Thanksgiving Nov. 24 Visit us online at www.casarod.com 300 N. Bryan Ave. • Historic Downtown Bryan • 979-779-0916

(979) 595-1111 Call today for a free in-home quote! www.merrymaids.com

SUNDAY • NOVEMBER 20, 2011

Wishes : HOLIDAY HAPPENINGS AND FESTIVE GIFT GUIDE

Buy Discount Tickets & Special Packages online at Santas-Wonderland.com

Santa’s Wonderland Hours: 6 p.m. - 11 p.m. Sun - Thurs 6 p.m. - Midnight Fri - Sat

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PEAK

Santa’s Town Open; Hayrides & Carriages Only on Trail of Lights

OFF-PEAK Santa’s Town Open; Hayrides, Carriages & Drive-Thru Permitted

Santa’s Wonderland CLOSED

To ease trafﬁc congestion and long wait times, we are introducing “Peak” and “Off-Peak” evenings this year. The Drive-Thru Tour will ONLY be open to cars & personal vehicles on “Off-Peak” evenings. Santa’s Hayrides and Santa’s Town are open EVERY Night! Visit our website for full details.

Santas-Wonderland.com 6

A Texas Chr istmas Village

featuring nostalgic Texas foods such as Smokehouse B.B.Q., Burgers, Dogs & Border Fajitas. Plus, Marshal Frostbite, live music, entertainment and our GIANT movie screen!

at Holiday Magic

Toes Dance Studio leads off the performances at 6 pm, followed by a show from the Brazos Valley Performing Arts Li’l Wranglers. At 6:45, the movie “The Polar Express” will be shown. Visitors are encouraged to bring lawn chairs and enjoy the movie. The tennis court area will become Frosty’s Funland where kids can play carnival-style games, write letters to Santa, make Christmas ornaments or play in the bounce houses. The Polar Express train also begins and ends at Frosty’s Funland. Of course the main attraction is always the snow hill. “The snow hill is a huge hit with visitors,” Schillings said. “What’s really fun is when I go by the park the next morning and the snow hasn’t melted yet. The kids come out and they will play

in the snow until it’s gone.” Free hot chocolate and cookies will be available courtesy of the Bryan Walmart Supercenter to help the kids warm up after they ride the snow hill. At 8 pm, there will be a reading of “The Night Before Christmas” followed by a big prize giveaway. There will be prize drawings for restaurant certificates, shopping cards and event passes, but the big prize of the night is a boy’s and a girl’s bicycle. Holiday Magic is a free event. Additional parking will be available at Blinn College with free shuttles running from Blinn to the park throughout the event. For more information on Holiday Magic, go to www. bryantx.gov and click on the Parks and Recreation link, or call 979-209-5528.

SUNDAY • NOVEMBER 20, 2011

o matter what happens with the weather this winter, Holiday Magic in Bryan will give kids a chance to have some fun in the snow. The annual event is part of the city’s kickoff to the holiday season and gives kids of all ages a chance to see Santa and spread a little Christmas cheer. “Holiday Magic is an oldfashioned good time,” said Gwynne Schillings of the Bryan Parks and Recreation Department. “There’s something here for everyone and it’s so exciting for the kids to see Santa Claus make a dramatic entrance on a fire truck.” This year’s event will be held on Dec. 1 from 5:30 to 8:30 pm at Sue Haswell Memorial Park. Santa arrives at 5:30 to welcome everyone and get the celebration started. On Our

By BILLY MAU The Eagle

Wishes : HOLIDAY HAPPENINGS AND FESTIVE GIFT GUIDE

Fun in the Snow

SUNDAY • NOVEMBER 20, 2011

Wishes : HOLIDAY HAPPENINGS AND FESTIVE GIFT GUIDE 8

Christmas Fun at wolf pen creek...

or 27 years, Christmas in the Park has been a College Station institution. Children who have enjoyed it have grown up and now bring their own kids, and with the exception of a few tweaks over the years, it has remained very much the same. Not any more. Christmas in the Park is getting a new home, new features and even a new name as Christmas at the Creek debuts at Wolf Pen Creek Park. Sheila Walker, Special Events Supervisor for the College Station Parks and Recreation Department, said people can rest assured that, despite all of the changes, that it is still the same

event at heart. Visitors will still get to see the Christmas lights put up by city employees and performances from local dance troupes and musicians. They’ll still get to enjoy free cookies & hot chocolate and visit with Santa. It’s just all going to be on a larger scale. “Christmas in the Park outgrew Central Park really about 10 or 15 years ago,” Walker said. “We maxed out our power availability there long ago and we peaked with our lighting displays probably five or six years ago. “Wolf Pen Creek was designed for large crowds, much more so than Central Park. During Christmas in the Park, you couldn’t even get around over there.”

More room for visitors means more room for fun. Entertainers, previously limited to a small area in the Central Park parking lot will now have three stages for performances. Walker said that having proper stages will make the performances easier to watch since everyone can get a good view of the performers. In addition to the stage entertainment, Christmas at the Creek will have strolling musicians and holiday characters. Walker said the lights are expected to be on by Dec. 1 and will remain on each night through New Year’s. As much as people enjoyed going to Central Park on the non-performance nights to enjoy the lights, Walker expects people to enjoy

them even more given the natural beauty of Wolf Pen Creek Park. Of course the big draw is Santa Claus. Santa is also getting more space thanks to the move. He’ll be taking pictures with kids in the Green Room, right next to the playground. Visitors are welcome to bring their own cameras and do the pictures for free or they can pay $4 for a picture taken by one of Santa’s helpers. “Having pictures in the office was nice, but it was a little cramped in there, especially for those waiting

in line,” Walker said. “The Green Room has plenty more space and it also allows us to set up special reservations for Santa pictures for those who don’t want to wait in line. They can call us up (979-7643486) and set something up earlier in the day.” The performance nights are Dec. 2 & 3 and Dec. 9 & 10. Scheduled performances include Shelli Kruger’s School of Dance, Suzanne’s School of Dance, the Aggie Wranglers, Expressions Dance and Music, TAMU Orchestra,

SUNDAY • NOVEMBER 20, 2011

New Notes Barbershop Quartet, Creekside Brass, MCM Dance Studio and On Our Toes Dance Studio. Area schools will also be represented by performances from the BCS Junior Drill Team, Rudder Rangerettes, Franklin High School Lionettes, Franklin High School cheerleaders, Franklin flag squad and Kids Klub Dancers from the College Station ISD elementary schools. Pet Night will be Dec. 3 and feature a costume contest, Pet/Owner Look-aLike Contest and Pet Parade. The annual baking contest will take place Dec. 10. Walker said that she understands if some people might be a little skeptical about the move to Wolf Pen Creek, but hopes they’ll still come out to enjoy it. “I’ve been involved with Christmas in the Park for 27 years, and I was a skeptic too,” Walker said. “I got engaged at Christmas in the Park. My kids grew up at Christmas in the Park. My heart is in Christmas in the Park. I was probably the biggest skeptic when we had the idea, but as we talked about it and all of the things we could do here to grow the event, I got very excited. If people give us a chance in this first couple of years as we get this event reestablished, they’re going to wonder why we didn’t do this a lot sooner.” For more information on this year’s Christmas at the Creek, visit cstx.gov/ Christmas. There you will find information on the event and entry information for the baking contest. Parking for Christmas at the Creek will be at Post Oak Mall.

By BILLY MAU The Eagle

Wishes : HOLIDAY HAPPENINGS AND FESTIVE GIFT GUIDE

...Christmas in the Park gets a new name and a new home

relax. we’ll give you a

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SUNDAY • NOVEMBER 20, 2011

Wishes : HOLIDAY HAPPENINGS AND FESTIVE GIFT GUIDE 10

B-CS Christmas Parade

By BILLY MAU The Eagle

Celebrates 85th Year

he elves will be out this year on December 4 as the theme for the 85th Annual Bryan-College Station Christmas Parade will take paradegoers “Inside Santa’s Workshop.” Parade chairwoman Penny Zent is proud to see the event enter its 85th year and can’t wait to see the community’s reaction to all the hard work going into this year’s parade. “The thing that always excites me is to see the kids enjoying the parade,” Zent said. “Having Santa Claus and the school groups taking part really makes the parade. It’s a great way to kick off the Christmas season and a really great community event.” Zent expects between 100 and 110 entries in this year’s parade, but is also expecting another quick parade like last year. Last year was the first year that parade organizers removed the performance stops in the parade route. The end result was a parade with 96 entries that lasted about an hour and a half, something many parade-goers were happy about.

“The biggest problem in the past was that the performance stops would create big gaps in the parade,” Zent said. “There would be up to five minutes with no one coming by and people would start to wonder if the parade was over. We didn’t have that problem last year. It was a much smoother and more enjoyable parade.” Fan favorites like the Ross Volunteers and Fightin’ Texas Aggie Band, as well as the area high school marching bands are back again this year. The parade will follow its traditional route starting at parking lot 50 on University Drive at 2 pm, turning east on Texas Avenue and continuing down to Sulphur Springs Avenue in Bryan. Spectators are encouraged to find a good spot to watch the parade and

get into the holiday spirit. For more information on the BryanCollege Station Christmas Parade, visit bcsparade.com.

Wishes : HOLIDAY HAPPENINGS AND FESTIVE GIFT GUIDE SUNDAY • NOVEMBER 20, 2011

SUNDAY • NOVEMBER 20, 2011

Wishes : HOLIDAY HAPPENINGS AND FESTIVE GIFT GUIDE

Origins of a holiday staple

he thick, spiced drink we know as eggnog has become synonymous with the holidays. It is so linked with the Christmas season that a person may be hard-pressed to find it sold in the supermarket any other time of the year. But eggnog wasn’t always the holiday beverage it has become. Eggnog is believed to have originated in 17th century Europe, primarily as a drink for the elite, since the ingredients in the beverage were hard to come by and thusly relegated to the very rich. There are different theories on the origins of the word eggnog itself. Some believe it has gotten its name from the Old English word “nog,” which meant “strong beer.” The “egg” refers to one of the ingredients in the beverage, fresh eggs. Others surmise that it comes from the word “noggin,” which was a vessel for serving drinks in taverns. The drink was

called “egg in a noggin,” which was shortened to “eggnog.” Still, there are others who say its name is derived from the term “grog,” which was another term for booze. “Egg n’ grog” was eventually abbreviated to “eggnog.” Although there is little certainty to the origins of the name, the recipe for eggnog has essentially remained unchanged throughout the centuries. It consists of beaten eggs, cream or milk and sugar mixed with some sort of alcoholic spirit. The Old English were believed to mix it with wine, though once the drink was brought to the New World, colonists substituted rum for the wine. Rum was readily available through tradesman running between the Americas and the Caribbean and therefore less expensive than another spirit. As America grew and eggnog was enjoyed in different parts of the country, the rum was replaced with regional

spirits, including bourbon or grain alcohol. Other ingredients were also added to give it a customized flavor. However, the use of nutmeg, cinnamon and cloves has become traditional flavors for the holiday brew. Although eggnog is widely enjoyed throughout the holiday season, in the past it was served at special events and social occasions. As a warmed beverage it can easily chase away winter’s chill. This is how it may have come to be enjoyed primarily during the holidays. Love it or hate it, eggnog is a drink that can evoke strong feelings of the holidays within minutes. There are variations of eggnog sold commercially, but many people swear by homemade versions for their taste and authenticity. Try your own homemade eggnog with this recipe, courtesy of Cooks.com.

hOLidaY Spirited eGGNOG) 1 doZen eggs 1 lb powdered sugar 1/2 teaspoon salt 1/4 cup vanilla

Beat eggs until light in color, gradually add sugar, salt and vanilla. Then add milk and water. Stir in rum (brandy, bourbon or rye may also be used). Cover the nog and ripen for 24 hours in the refrigerator. Stir again and serve sprinkled with nutmeg.

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8 cups evaporated milk 3 cups water 1 Quart spiced rum nUtmeg, to garnish

(near the corner of University Drive and Boonville Road)

Holiday trivia

OLD-ScHOOL VINYL SPINS AGAIN The music business is hurting, but LP vinyl records are back from the neardead. Vinyl has captivated a new generation of music enthusiasts. For the third consecutive year, vinyl record sales increased, selling 2.8 million units, the most since 1991, according to Nielsen SoundScan. Introduce the music lover of the family to a whole new way of listening with one of 2010’s top-selling vinyl titles. – Lindsey Romain 1. “ABBEY ROAD,” THE BEATLES (Apple Records, 1969) $18.99 2. “THE SUBURBS,” ARCADE FIRE (Merge Records, 2010) $25.98, two-record set

4. “CONTRA,” VAMPIRE WEEKEND (XL Recordings, 2010) $14.99 5. “THRILLER,” MICHAEL JACKSON (Epic Records, 1982) $14.99

Marley

6. WHAT WAS THE FIRST STATE IN THE UNITED STATES TO RECOGNIZE CHRISTMAS AS A LEGAL HOLIDAY? A:

2. HOW MANY GIFTS WOULD YOU RECEIVE IF YOU RECEIVED ALL OF THE GIFTS IN THE SONG “THE TWELVE DAYS OF CHRISTMAS?

7. TRUE OR FALSE: DUTCH SETTLERS DEDICATED A CHURCH TO SANTA CLAUS IN NEW YORK.

A: 364

3. IN THE SONG “WINTER WONDERLAND”, WHO DO WE PRETEND THE SNOWMAN IS? A: Parson

Brown

4. IN THE SONG “ALL I WANT FOR CHRISTMAS IS MY TWO FRONT TEETH”, WHY DO I WANT MY TWO FRONT TEETH?

A: So I can wish you a Merry christmas.

5. WHAT IS THE MEANING BEHIND THE ABBREVIATION XMAS?

A: The X represents the Greek letter “chi,” which is the first letter in Christ’s name in the Greek alphabet.

6. “HIGH VIOLET,” THE NATIONAL (4AD, 2010) $19.99

9. “THE DARK SIDE OF THE MOON,” PINK FLOYD (Harvest Records/capitol Records, 1973) $18.99 10. “XX” THE XX (Young Turks, 2009) $18.99

A: It’s actually a little true and a little false. The first Dutch-built church in New York was named after Saint Nicholas, the person modern-day Santa claus is based on. 8. WHAT RETAILER IS CREDITED WITH CREATING RUDOLPH THE RED-NOSED REINDEER? A:

Montgomery Ward created popular character in 1939.

A: False. Multiple shopping surveys have shown lastminute shoppers rule the year. The busiest shopping day is usually the Saturday or Sunday before christmas Day. 10. WHAT IS ST. NICHOLAS THE PATRON SAINT OF?

A: St. Nicholas is the patron saint of a lot of things, including (but not limited to) children, sailors, fishermen, pawnbrokers, repentant thieves, the falsely accused and New York city (the Dutch settlement of New Amsterdam to be more accurate).

Pecans C ir cl e X Or ch a r ds

Just in Time for the Holidays! Crack’em Yourself & Taste the Difference!

7. “TEEN DREAM,” BEACH HOUSE (Sub Pop, 2010) $18 8. “VALLEYS OF NEPTUNE,” THE JIMI HENDRIX EXPERIENCE (Legacy Recordings, 2010) $24.98

Alabama, in 1836.

9. TRUE OR FALSE: THE FRIDAY AFTER THANKSGIVING IS THE BUSIEST SHOPPING DAY OF THE YEAR.

SUNDAY • NOVEMBER 20, 2011

3. “BROTHERS,” THE BLACK KEYS (Nonesuch Records, 2010) $26.98 , tworecord set

1. WHO WAS SCROOGE’S BUSINESS PARTNER’S NAME IN “A CHRISTMAS CAROL”? A: Jacob

Wishes : HOLIDAY HAPPENINGS AND FESTIVE GIFT GUIDE

TAKE 10: CHART-BUSTING ALBUMS

$74 Shelled Pecans Available Too!

Call (979) 776-5760 or (979) 450-0819 to place your order

SUNDAY • NOVEMBER 20, 2011

Five no-tech, imagination-boosting toys

Wishes : HOLIDAY HAPPENINGS AND FESTIVE GIFT GUIDE

every child should have

very year, lists fly around the Internet and airwaves, parents line up in stores and everyone talks about what the season’s hottest toys will be. All the chatter can make it seem like everyone’s forgotten the single most enduring “toy” at the disposal of every child - imagination. Plenty of high-tech toys encourage creativity, but to really fire up a child’s imagination it’s hard to beat the power of timeless, classic toys that rely on a child’s interaction rather than on electronics. This type of nostalgic toy can become a child’s best friend, and parents will be happy their children have something that doesn’t require batteries and doesn’t stop working just because it’s dropped a few times. Here are five timeless, nostalgic, low-tech toys that every child should have: 1. A classic doll Countless generations of little girls have fallen in love with a special doll. This is one toy that can serve many functions, from best friend and confidante to teacher and even role model. If some of today’s brash, in-your-face styles of dolls leave you shaking your head, never fear: you can still find dolls that offer contemporary appeal combined with more homespun values. Cracker Barrel Old Country Store, the popular family

restaurant/retail store found across the country, recently introduced a line of rag dolls called Butterflies. Soft and cuddly, these 15-inch dolls of relatable characters, such as a ballerina, princess, cheerleader and schoolgirl, make a wholesome, imagination-

inspiring addition to a little girl’s toy box. Visit www. crackerbarrel.com/store/ butterflies/ to learn more. 2. A wagon - Whether it’s an old-fashioned metal one in fire-engine red or one of the modern, SUVsized plastic numbers available today, nothing beats a wagon for getting

29th Annual Small Town Christmas Friday

in Bellville, Texas Join us for traditional family fun! December 2 & 3

Baking Contest & Sale Sponsored by First National Bank of Bellville Lighted Parade Live entertainment featuring The Usual Suspects Late Night Shopping throughout Bellville

Saturday

Bake Sale Sponsored by First National Bank of Bellville, Breakfast and Pictures with Santa at Newmans Bakery, Gingerbread House Decorating & Contest, Children’s Wonderland with Pony Rides, Petting Zoo, Moonwalk, Holiday Train Ride, Bubble Runners, Pictures with the Christmas Horse, and much, much more! Live Entertainment throughout the Day Over 90 Market Day Vendors presented by the Bellville Chamber of Commerce

979.865.3407 • www.smalltownchristmas.org Major Sponsors

kids moving. It’s also a toy that can keep pace with a child’s development and changing styles of play. Very young children will enjoy riding as parents tow them along on trips to the park or walks around the neighborhood. As children grow, they begin to use the wagon themselves, employing it to transport toys or other children. Turn it over and it’s a makeshift fort or castle. 3. A building set Whether it’s plastic, wood, or metal, a building set can fire the imagination of budding engineers. Building materials that link together have a leg up on old-fashioned blocks, allowing kids to create increasingly complex structures. With so many different construction toys available, it’s possible to find a building set for virtually any age or skill level. 4. Dress-up items - Pretend play is an important way children explore their own potential. Dressing up as a doctor, nurse, firefighter or police officer helps children learn about career choices and

adult roles, and facilitates creativity through role playing. Creating a dressup chest is simple and low-cost. Parents can fill a plastic bin with handme-downs, old Halloween costumes and even a few store-bought items. 5. An easel and drawing pad - Sure, coloring books are great, but there’s something about an easel that makes a child feel like a real artist. A simple wooden frame holding a large drawing pad can become the launch pad for flights of fancy rendered in crayon, watercolor and even washable magic marker. Whatever your child’s media or favorite subject, putting him or her in front of an easel will enhance enjoyment of the artistic experience - and give you a bird’s-eye view of your budding artist at work. Imagination is truly the greatest toy - and tool - of childhood. Fortunately, you can find plenty of “no-tech” toys to nourish your child’s creativity and imagination, even in today’s high-tech world.

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RECIPES®

FROM YOUR LOCAL REALTORS

Sopapilla Pumpkin Cheesecake Bars

The Perfect Holiday Turkey

Bananas Foster

1 (18 pound) whole turkey, neck and giblets removed 2 cups kosher salt 1/2 cup butter, melted 2 large onions, peeled and chopped 4 carrots, peeled and chopped 4 stalks celery, chopped 2 sprigs fresh thyme 1 bay leaf 1 cup dry white wine

1/4 cup (1/2 stick) butter 1 cup brown sugar 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon 1/4 cup banana liqueur 4 bananas, cut in half lengthwise, then halved 1/4 cup dark rum 1/2 cup of chopped pecans (optional) 4 scoops vanilla ice cream

Bar: 2 cans crescent rolls 2 (8-ounce) pkg. cream cheese, softened 2 cup canned pumpkin 5/8 cup sugar 2 teaspoon vanilla extract 2 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice

Directions: 1. Combine the butter, sugar, and cinnamon in a flambé pan or skillet. 2. Place the pan over low heat either on an alcohol burner or on top of the stove, and cook, stirring, until the sugar dissolves. 3. Stir in the banana liqueur, then place the bananas and chopped pecans in the pan. 4. When the banana sections soften and begin to brown, carefully add the rum. 5. Continue to cook the sauce until the rum is hot, then tip the pan slightly to ignite the rum. 6. When the flames subside, lift the bananas out of the pan and place four pieces over each portion of ice cream. 7. Generously spoon warm sauce over the top of the ice cream and serve immediately. Serves Four

Preheat oven to 350 degrees Grease a glass 9x13 inch baking dish. 1) Unroll one can of crescent roll dough (all in one piece) pressing it out to cover the bottom and pinching any seams together. 2) Beat together the cream cheese and sugar until light and fluffy. Add pumpkin, vanilla, cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and allspice to combine. Spread this mixture over the crescent roll dough in your pan. 3) Unroll the other can of crescent roll dough and lay it over top of the pumpkin cheesecake mixture. 4) In a small bowl, whisk together 1/2 cup sugar with 1 teaspoon cinnamon. Pour melted butter over top of crescent roll dough and sprinkle cinnamon and sugar mixture evenly across the surface. Bake for 30 minutes or until golden brown. 5) Let bars cool completely before covering them and placing them in the refrigerator to chill for at least a couple of hours ( overnight is better). Cut into squares, heat for just about 20 seconds to take off the chill, and serve with a drizzle of honey and a sprinkle of toasted pecans.

THIS RECIPE BROUGHT TO YOU BY

Lisa R. Shaw

Century 21 Beal, Inc. 979-492-1881

Chad Hovde BEAL, Inc.

Trey’s Venison Chili

2 lbs chopped or ground venison ½ lb lean ground pork 1 lb Pinto beans 2 bell peppers diced 2 cloves garlic finely grated 2 tbs cumin 2 large white onion chopped coarse 5 medium large tomatoes or 5 cans tomatoes, 8 0z ea. 1 ½ tbs salad oil

¾ cup fresh chopped cilantro 1 tbs black pepper ½ cup chili powder 1 tbs salt 1 tsp paprika ½ cup butter 2 limes squeezed Several jalapeño or serrano peppers Small block of sharp cheddar cheese, shredded

Shred a small brick of sharp cheddar cheese. Cook beans separately until they are done but NOT mushy. Set aside. SimmerTomatoes in a separate pan for 5 minutes. Add onion and bell pepper stirring frequently and then add garlic and cilantro. Keep stirring 5 minutes. Sauté venison and pork in a separate skillet in butter. Add meat and chili powder to tomatoes and onion mix and cook 10 minutes. Stir in cumin, paprika, oil, pepper and salt, garlic, cilantro, lime juice and simmer 30 minutes. Add beans and simmer 5 minutes more and don’t let beans get too mushy. Add water if needed but only sparingly. Last: Add finely chopped jalapeño or cilantro to taste.You must decide when it is hot enough! Simmer for 5 more minutes. Sprinkle shredded cheese on top. THIS RECIPE BROUGHT TO YOU BY

M.F. “Trey”Thurmond Brazosland Classic Realty 979-229-8465

Keller Williams 979.450.4347

Turducken 1 (3 pound) whole chicken, boned salt and pepper to taste Creole seasoning to taste 1 (4 pound) duck, boned 1 (16 pound) turkey, boned 3 cups prepared sausage and oyster dressing 1. Preheat oven to 375 degrees F. Lay the boned chicken skin-side down on a platter and season liberally with salt, pepper and Creole seasoning. Lay the boned duck skin-side down on top of the chicken and season liberally with salt, pepper and Creole seasoning. Cover and refrigerate. 2. Lay the boned turkey skin-side down on a flat surface. Cover with a layer of cold Sausage and Oyster Dressing and push the dressing into the leg and wing cavities so they will look as if they still have bones in them. 3. Lay the duck on top of the turkey skin-side down and cover it with a layer of cold dressing. Lay the chicken on top of the duck skin-side down and cover it with a layer of cold dressing. 4. With the help of an assistant, bring the edges of the turkey skin up and fasten them together with toothpicks. Use the kitchen string to lace around the toothpicks to help hold the stuffed turkey together. Carefully place the turducken, breast up in a large roasting pan. 5. Roast covered for 4 hours or until the turducken is golden brown. Continue to roast uncovered for 1 hour or until a meat thermometer inserted through the thigh registers 180 degrees F. and a thermometer inserted through the stuffing registers 165 degrees F. Check the turducken every few hours to baste and remove excess liquid. There will be enough pan juices for a gallon of gravy. Carve and serve. THIS RECIPE BROUGHT TO YOU BY

Tom Patterson United Country 979-571-2125

Topping: 6 tablespoons butter, melted 1/2 cup sugar 1 teaspoon cinnamon

THIS RECIPE BROUGHT TO YOU BY

Monica Palasota, GRI RE/MAX Select 979-571-6109

SUNDAY • NOVEMBER 20, 2011

1. Rub the turkey inside and out with the kosher salt. Place the bird in a large stock pot, and cover with cold water. Place in the refrigerator, and allow the turkey to soak in the salt and water mixture 12 hours, or overnight. 2. Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Thoroughly rinse the turkey, and discard the brine mixture. 3. Brush the turkey with 1/2 the melted butter. Place breast side down on a roasting rack in a shallow roasting pan. Stuff the turkey cavity with 1 onion, 1/2 the carrots, 1/2 the celery, 1 sprig of thyme, and the bay leaf. Scatter the remaining vegetables and thyme around the bottom of the roasting pan, and cover with the white wine. 4. Roast uncovered 3 1/2 to 4 hours in the preheated oven, until the internal temperature of the thigh reaches 180 degrees F (85 degrees C). Carefully turn the turkey breast side up about 2/3 through the roasting time, and brush with the remaining butter. Allow the bird to stand about 30 minutes before carving.

Wishes : HOLIDAY HAPPENINGS AND FESTIVE GIFT GUIDE

Holiday

Our REALTOR® recipes for holiday entertaining: Good friends, good food, and a happy home! From our family to yours.

StuffingwithSun-driedTomatoes

1/4 cup butter 2 stalks celery, chopped 1 medium onion, chopped 1 3/4 cups Swanson® Chicken Broth (Regular, Natural Goodness™ or Certified Organic) 1/2 teaspoon poultry seasoning

1/2 cup chopped sundried tomatoes 1/2 cup toasted slivered almonds (optional) 5 cups Pepperidge Farm® Cornbread Stuffing 1 (12 pound) turkey vegetable oil

1. Heat the butter in a 4-quart saucepan over medium heat. Add the celery and onion and cook until they’re tender, stirring occasionally. Stir the broth, poultry seasoning and tomatoes in the saucepan and heat to a boil. Remove the saucepan from the heat. Stir in the almonds, if desired. Add the stuffing and mix lightly. 2. Remove the package of giblets and neck from the turkey cavity. Rinse the turkey with cold water and pat dry. Spoon the stuffing mixture lightly into the neck and body cavities. Fold the loose skin over the stuffing mixture.Tie the ends of the drumsticks together. 3. Place the turkey, breast side up, on a rack in a large roasting pan. Brush the turkey with the oil. Insert a meat thermometer into the thickest part of the meat, not touching the bone. 4. Roast at 325 degrees F. for 3 1/2 hours or until the thermometer reads 165 degrees F., basting occasionally with the pan drippings. Begin checking for doneness after 3 hours of the roasting time. Let the turkey stand for 10 minutes before slicing. THIS RECIPE BROUGHT TO YOU BY

Sherry Perry CLICKpoint Realty 979-229-7254

SUNDAY • NOVEMBER 20, 2011

Kids and gifts HOW MANY IS TOO MUcH?

Wishes : HOLIDAY HAPPENINGS AND FESTIVE GIFT GUIDE

espite the many messages from all corners promoting a “more is better” philosophy when it comes to holiday gifts, the truth is far more complex -- especially for children. While most parents work hard to give their kids everything they need and much of what they want, it is often hard to draw the line, prompting many well intentioned moms and dads to ask, “How much is too much?” In general, the answer lies within each family. Parents should purchase what makes sense to them and what they believe their children will use and appreciate. However, in recent years, child psychologists and experts in child development have returned to these questions as economic conditions have forced many families to scale back, both throughout the year and during the holiday season. Books such as “The Pampered Child Syndrome” (Jessica Kingsley, 2006) by Maggie Mamen and “Give Me, Get Me, Buy Me” (HCI, 2010) by Donna Corwin and several others on the same topic offer similar conclusions: When children are given too much over the course of their childhoods, they can develop a serious case of entitlement, become unappreciative of what they have and begin to equate love with “stuff.” And for younger children, receiving a huge pile of gifts in one sitting can be both overwhelming and overstimulating. If you have been wondering about these

issues, here are some general guidelines for having a fun-filled holiday with just enough stuff.

MAKE A GIFT PLAN

Before setting out on your first shopping expedition, devise a plan that makes sense for your family. If you have younger children, decide on the number of gifts for each. With older children, you might want to establish a dollar amount rather than a gift amount. Once you’ve made the plan, stick to it -- no matter what.

DRAW NAMES

Particularly in bigger families, gift-giving can become a financial and emotional burden if everyone buys for everyone. Drawing names not only reduces those burdens, but often results in more meaningful gifts all around.

OPT FOR A SHARED EXPERIENCE

Consider pooling the money you would have spent on individual gifts and putting it toward a

special outing, vacation or shared item for your home. Long after the toys have broken and the electronics have stopped working, your children will cherish their memories of a holiday that focused on sharing time together.

COMMUNICATE

If Grandpa Mike or Aunt Emily has a reputation for heaping on the presents at Christmas or Chanukah, let them know ahead of time that one will do, then offer a suggestion that is sure to please your son or daughter. If they insist that they want to do more, consider asking them to make a donation in your

child’s name to a charitable organization or to purchase a gift for a local child in need.

COLLABORATE

consider asking extended family members to contribute to that item or to items that go with it, such as a helmet or other gear.

Sometimes one big gift makes a lot more sense. If your child would love a new bike or a trampoline or horseback riding lessons,

BRAZOS HERITAGE SOCIETY Presents

A Christmas Stroll in the Park SATURDAY DECEMBER 10 6pm - 9pm Heritage Park, Bryan Musical Entertainment Horse Drawn Carriage to Mini Historical Homes Christmas Tour* Hot Wassail & Refreshments *Tickets will be on sale for $5 at Heritage Park the day of tour.

BOOk THEM AND HOOk THEM in this age of digital technology and toy gadgetry, children may be keener to flip on the tV or shuffle their mP3 player than crack open a book. this holiday season, try reigniting their imagination with the gift of words. here are some of 2011’s award-winning and honor books for young readers. – Lindsey romain

TAKE 10: TOP DVDS FOR THE CABLE-FREE cATcHING UP WITH cABLE

1. MAD MEN, Season Four (AMc/Lionsgate) $49.99, DVD and Bluray 2. RIZZOLI AND ISLES, Season One (TNT/Warner Home Video) $39.98, DVD

6. ENTOURAGE, Season Seven (HBO Home Video) $39.98, DVD/$49.99 Blu-ray 7. NURSE JACKIE, Season Two (Showtime Entertainment) $39.98, DVD and Blu-ray 8. LOUIE, Season One (FX Network) $39.99, DVD and Blu-ray 9. WEEDS, Season Six (Showtime Entertainment) $39.98, DVD and Blu-ray 10. BREAKING BAD, Season Three (AMc/ Lionsgate) $39.99, DVD

NOW OPEN!

3. TRUE BLOOD, Season Three (HBO Home Video) $59.99, DVD/$79.98 Blu-ray 4. DEXTER, Season Five (Showtime Entertainment) $39.99, DVD and Blu-ray 5. THE WALKING DEAD, Season One (AMc/Lionsgate) $39.99, DVD/$49.99, Blu-ray

An Old Fashioned Christmas on the Square Downtown Caldwell

Friday – December 2nd Saturday – December 3rd

SUNDAY • NOVEMBER 20, 2011

don’t let those who’ve cut the cable miss out on their favorite shows. holiday downtime is perfect for catching up on some of cable’s most popular and critically acclaimed shows. here are a few of last season’s biggest titles, available on dVd and Blu-ray. – Lindsey romain

1. “MOON OVER MANIFEST” by clare Vanderpool (Delacorte Press, $16.99) Newbery Medal 2. “TURTLE IN PARADISE” by Jennifer L. Holm (Random House, $16.99) Newbery Honor 3. “HEART OF A SAMURAI” by Margi Preus (Amulet Books, $15.95) Newbery Honor 4. “DARK EMPEROR and Other Poems of the Night” by Joyce Sidman, illustrated by Rick Allen (Houghton Mifflin, $16.99) Newbery Honor 5. “ONE CRAZY SUMMER” by Rita Williams-Garcia (Amistad, $8.92) Newbery Honor 6. “A SICK DAY FOR AMOS MCGEE” by Philip c. Stead, illustrated by Erin E. Stead (Neal Porter/Roaring Brook Press, $16.99) caldecott Medal 7. “DAVE THE POTTER: Artist, Poet, Slave” by Laban carrick, illustrated by Bryan collier (Little, Brown and company, $11.95) caldecott Honor 8. “INTERRUPTING CHICKEN” written and illustrated by David Ezra Stein (candlewick Press, $16.99) caldecott Honor 9. “SHIP BREAKER” by Paolo Bacigalupi (Little, Brown and company, $17.99) Michael L. Printz Medal 10. “PLEASE IGNORE VERA DIETZ” by A.S. king (knopf, $16.99) Michael L. Printz Honor

Wishes : HOLIDAY HAPPENINGS AND FESTIVE GIFT GUIDE

TAKE 10: THE YEAR’S BEST CHILDREN’S BOOKS

Friday Events Schedule

6:00 pm Lighting Ceremony-Followed by song and dance from local dance, church, community, and school groups ending with a visit from Santa and Rudolph.

Saturday Events Schedule

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5K Run/Walk Registration 5K Run/Walk Christmas Pet Show Washer Pitching Contest Registration Washer Pitching Contest Gingerbread House Display The Christmas Songwriters Showcase Concert

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SUNDAY • NOVEMBER 20, 2011

Wishes : HOLIDAY HAPPENINGS AND FESTIVE GIFT GUIDE

Tis the season for…

ven though Christmas takes the December spotlight, it is important to remember that this is a special time of year for many people of different faiths and cultures. Chief among these celebrations are Hanukkah and Kwanzaa. Taking the time to learn about some of these celebrations can help one realize just how wonderful this time of year is for themselves and others all around the world.

Hanukkah Hanukkah is the Jewish celebration of the rededication of the Second Temple in Jerusalem in the

Second Century B.C. The holiday is referred to as the Festival of Lights, and observed by lighting special candles or lamps on a Menorah. There are eight candles to commemorate the eight days of the festival, as wells as a ninth candle know as the Shamash. The Shamash is used to light the Menorah candles. The eight days of the festival come from the event known as “miracle of the container of oil.” The first Hanukkah celebration took place after the Maccabean Revolt was put down. Following the fighting, there was just one container of consecrated olive oil left. That was just enough oil to keep the temple’s eternal flame lit for one day. The oil ended up lasting long enough for more oil to be produced, an eight-day procedure. Those eight days are now commemorated by lighting one candle on the Menorah each day of the celebration. Tradition dictates the candles are not for providing light inside the house, but for display to show the household’s faith to all. The Menorah

is usually placed in a prominent window or in other locations where passers by can see it. Hanukkah celebrations are also highlighted by games, food and music. In fact, many people that know almost nothing about Hanukkah have probably heard of dreidels and potato pancakes, both of which are Hanukkah mainstays. The dreidel is a spinning top used in the traditional Hanukkah game. Dreidels have four sides, each marked with a different Hebrew character: Nun, Gimel, Hey and Shin. The characters are an acronym for the Hebrew words “Nes Gadol Haya Sham,” which translates as “A great miracle happened there,” a reference to the container

of oil. The dreidel game is usually played after the lighting of that day’s candle. Each player starts with 10 or 15 coins, called gelt. Real or chocolate coins can be used, as can other items such as candies. Each player places one coin in the “pot” and the dreidel is spun. Depending on the character the dreidel lands on, the spinner either wins part of the pot or must give up part of their collection. The game usually lasts until one player has won all the gelt. The traditional food of Hanukkah is a potato pancake called a latke. Latkes and other Hanukkah food are usually baked or fried in oil to commemorate the miracle of the oil at the center of the holiday.

Jewish comedian Adam Sandler popularized Hanukkah among nonJewish people with his “Chanukah Song.” The song appeared on one of his comedy albums and was also performed on Saturday Night Live. Sandler also wrote, produced and starred in 2002 animated musical “Eight Crazy Nights.” The film has joined the seasonal rotation on some TV networks, making it just about the only Hanukkah movie to stand alongside the Christmas classics shown during the holidays.

Kwanzaa

Kwanzaa is a celebration of African heritage observed from Dec. 26-Jan. 1. The seven days of the celebration are marked

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and creativity. The green candles represent collective work and responsibility, purpose and faith. The order of candle lighting signifies that people come before struggle and the hope that comes from that struggle. The kinara is the centerpiece of the Kwanzaa decoration. It is placed on a ceremonial mat called a mkeka. Another key part of the celebration involves fresh fruit and corn. The word Kwanzaa being derived from the Swahili phase “matunda ya kwanza” (meaning “first fruits”). The Unity Cup is also placed on the mat. The Unity Cup contains tambiko, a libation that is poured to honor the ancestors that have taught the celebrants about the beauty and goodness in life. Many people and families that celebrate Kwanzaa decorate the house with the traditional Kwanzaa colors of black, red and

green. Gifts are also given to the children in the family. The gifts always include a book and symbols of African heritage. The book is to promote education and symbols reinforce the African commitment to tradition and history. Christmas is also incorporated into the

Kwanzaa celebration in some homes. It is not uncommon to see a kinara alongside a Christmas tree as the holiday moves away from being an alternative to Christmas and becomes a chance for people to blend their ethnic heritage into the Christmas celebration.

SUNDAY • NOVEMBER 20, 2011

enjoy a variety of live entertainment make holiday ornaments in Santa’s Workshop cookies, hot chocolate, punch Oval Office photos with Santa

Wishes : HOLIDAY HAPPENINGS AND FESTIVE GIFT GUIDE

in the center of the kinara, and represents the people. The three red candles are placed to the left of the black candle and represents the struggles of the past. The three green candles sit to the right and represent the hope that comes from the struggle. Kwanzaa celebrates what Karenga calls the “Seven Principles of Kwanzaa.” Those principles are unity, self-determination, collective work and responsibility, cooperative economics, purpose, creativity and faith. Each day of celebration is dedicated to a different principle. The candles also represent the seven principles. The black candle represents unity and is lit first. The remaining candles are lit on the following days starting from left to right. The red candles correspond to self-determination, cooperative economics

with the lighting of candles in the ceremonial holder called a kinara, and ends with a feast. Maulana Karenga created the holiday in 1966 as the first African-American holiday. Kwanzaa was inspired by the ancient harvest celebrations of the Egyptian and Nubian peoples. Karenga, a scholar and social activist, said the holiday was originally a black alternative to the existing holidays. Kwanzaa has evolved into a more inclusive holiday, with Karenga saying, “Any particular message that is good for a particular people, if it is human in its content and ethical in its grounding, speaks not just to that people, it speaks to the world.” The candles of the kinara are red, green and black. Three candles are red, three are green and one is black. The black candle is placed

(standard museum admission and photo charges apply)

We will be collecting donations of non-perishable food items at the Holidays in the Rotunda event for the Food for Families holiday food drive. Receive $1 off admission price for each person who donates a food item. Collection boxes will be at the main entrance near security. Come and enjoy the event, and please help us feed the Brazos Valley this holiday season. presen

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December 3, 2011 10 a.m. - 3 p.m. 1000 GEORGE BUSH DRIVE WEST, COLLEGE STATION, TEXAS 77845 979.691.4000 | bushlibrary.tamu.edu | @bushlibrary

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