The Daily Northwestern Holiday Guide - Dec. 6, 2012

The Daily Northwestern

Holiday Guide ’Tis the Season

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December 2012

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DECEMBER 2012

International students stay for break Some students use student organizations to organize winter break trips with peers

By SUSAN DU

daily senior staffer

For Northwestern international students separated from their families by continental distances for most of the school year, the holidays can present an opportunity for a long-overdue reunion. But for those bypassing a return home this season due to budget constraints, In a way, [ISA] these times can also present a sighelps to lessen nificant emotional the culture challenge.

However, as NU shock that you actively strives to incorporate more experience. And the experiences diversity into its student body — we’ve all had is both economic pretty similar, so and racial — the expanding interit’s really like a national student little family. community has devised a variety of Aditya Raikar, alternative holiday ISA spokesman traditions.

Instead of going home, some international students consider the holidays as a chance to travel. Some head straight for the balmy beaches of Miami, while others organize cross-country backpacking or road trips. The International Student Association, which helps students with few other ties in America get to know others with a similar predicament, connects holiday wanderers with their peers.

Weinberg junior Joyce Fan said student organizations serve as a platform for students to bond and then form alternative break plans. Fan is not an active member of ISA but considers the group a networking resource through which she has met core friends.

“There is a trend that a lot of international

“

students do travel together during winter break if they can’t go home or they decide not to,” Fan said. “That’s pretty typical.”

Fan added that the economic burden of returning home can persuade some international students to find more creative ways of spending time away from school.

“Of course the tickets are expensive, but even if you plan ahead, they’re still a pretty significant cost,” Fan said. “But it’s when you come back, mostly, that you’re really jet-lagged, and it’s the start of Winter Quarter, and there’s a week of hell when you’re really sleeping during classes and really hyper during the night.”

In addition to traveling, some international students plan to celebrate the holidays with volunteer host families, including tagging along with American friends on their trips home. For

The Daily Northwestern

other students planning to spend winter break locally, their connections with other international students represent a type of modern family away from home.

ISA spokesman Aditya Raikar said the experiences he has had with other members of the organization have proven to him that NU’s international student community is a “home away from home” for many.

“If ever you’re homesick, all the people in that association are going through the same thing,” the Weinberg freshman said. “In a way, it helps to lessen the culture shock that you experience. And the experiences we’ve all had is pretty similar, so it’s really like a little family.”

Holiday Guide Editors in Chief Manuel Rapada Cat Zakrzewski Copy Editors Devan Coggan Lydia Ramsey Design Editor Chelsea Sherlock Designers Sophia Bollag Susie Jang Kelsey Ott

shijundu@gmail.com

Photo Editor Rafi Letzter Photographers Susan Du Teal Gordon Kaitlin Svabek Canada

Writers Annie Bruce Sammy Caiola Lauren Caruba Joseph Diebold Susan Du Paulina Firozi Stephanie Haines Rafi Letzter Tom Meyer Ally Mutnick Manuel Rapada Chelsea Sherlock Josh Walfish

China Korea India

Taiwan

The top ten most-represented countries by 2011-2012 Northwestern international undergraduate and graduate students were China, Korea, India, Canada and Taiwan, according to NU’s International Office.

Cover Concept Rafi Letzter

Infographic by Sophia Bollag/The Daily Northwestern, map source: Wikimedia Commons

INTERNATIONAL Nearly 7 percent of undergraduate students come from foreign countries, according to data from the International Office website for 2011-2012. For many of these students, traveling home for the holidays can be financially difficult.

Cover Photos Rafi Letzter Kaitlin Svabek

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DECember 2012 the daily northwestern holiday guide | sports 3

Bowling with Gators: Go with ‘Cats to Jacksonville

By Josh Walfish

daily senior staffer

So you’re upset Northwestern isn’t going to Orlando or Tampa for its bowl game and instead wound up in Jacksonville. I understand the frustration, but that doesn’t mean you can’t come down and support the Wildcats in the Gator Bowl.

You’re all, for the most part, college students, and even if you’re not, I’m sure you’re worried about sticking to a budget.

Lucky for you, I’ve done all the research and picked out some places for you to eat, explore and sleep that won’t a cost you fortune. All of this is based on a trip from Dec. 31 to Jan. 2.

The first thing you must do is get to the game, of course. There are numerous airlines to choose from, but all of them will run you close to $500.

As of Wednesday night, the cheapest option from Chicago is AirTran Airways, which is $474 roundtrip with layovers in Atlanta going both ways. United Airlines flights originating from O’Hare start at $574.

Once you figure out the flights, I suggest looking for hotels. There are several to choose from. Depending on how much you want to devote to a hotel, I suggest staying at the Best Western in Jacksonville. For less than $150 for two nights in a room with two queen beds (hint: look for the chain’s “2 Nights Stay Promotion”), the hotel has everything you could want. It has complimentary breakfast, a fitness center and an outdoor swimming pool

— as well as a sauna. The rooms look spacious, and you probably won’t be doing much except sleeping in there anyway.

So now you get to Jacksonville in time for New Year’s Eve, and you want to know where you should go to celebrate. Start off your evening by joining all the other purple-clad supporters at the team’s pep rally 5 p.m. at Jacksonville Landing. You get to meet the team, hear from Pat Fitzgerald and sing along with our marching band as they lead the crowd in a rousing rendition of “Go U Northwestern.” After getting yourself pumped up for the game the next day, stay at the Landing and grab some dinner along the St. Johns River.

For good, cheap food, go to American Grille where dinner costs between $5 and $15, and you can watch some of the bowl games that will have already kicked off. When you’re nice and full from dinner, head over to Latitude 30 to watch the ball drop. With a bar, live comedy and bowling, the restaurant is almost like an adult’s playland.

Your plans for the next day should be pretty straightforward. The game kicks off at noon local time, and the Northwestern Alumni Association is hosting an official tailgate at a yet to be determined location. After the game, head back to the Landing to watch the Rose Bowl at Chicago Pizza and Sports Grille and cheer on Wisconsin for Big Ten pride. joshuawalfish2014@u.northwestern.edu

Significant Digits Jacksonville

850,000

people, making the city the 14th largest in the United States.

size in square miles, making Jacksonville the largest city by area in the United States.

1,100 68

841

approximate miles from Evanston to Jacksonville.

Gator Bowl number of Gator Bowls that will have occurred, after the 2013 game.

number of appearances by Northwestern in the Gator Bowl. This is Mississippi State’s second appearance.

12

p.m. kickoff time. The game will air on ESPN 2.

Northwestern’s regular season record.

Mississippi State’s record is 8-4.

77,510

9-3

capacity of EverBank Field.

bowl game appearances by Northwestern.

11

Information compiled by Josh Walfish/Daily Senior Staffer, graphic by Chelsea Sherlock/The Daily Northwestern Sources: gatorbowl.com, coj.net, nusports.com, maps.google.com

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4 ENTERTAINMENT | THE DAILY NORTHWESTERN HOLIDAY GUIDE

DECEMBER 2012

The 12 songs of 2012 you hate to love

Find out what’s under Morty’s Christmas tree 2012 Edition Highly Deceptive Geographically.” So, let’s just get one, guys?

By TOM MEYER

daily senior staffer

As the holidays approach, Northwestern students are busy avoiding finals by demanding expensive items from their parents. As part of his effort to reach out to the student body, University President Morton Schapiro has also probably spent the last few weeks compiling his holiday gift list.

Since Morty refuses to answer any of my zero emails asking him what’s on his gift list, I’ve decided to take it upon myself to guess:

A Nobel Prize Say you’re an accomplished economist, a university president and an all-around baller. What’s the one thing you’re missing? That young Nobel Prize. It’s got to be painful to see NU faculty bring home the Nobel Prize in economics, all the while knowing that you are the most qualified individual on the planet for the award. All that pain could end with a simple Swedish medal and hundreds of thousands of dollars in cash.

“The West Wing” on DVD

A nice BLT

We all know that Morty’s a popular president; according to The Huffington Post, he’s one of the most popular college presidents in the nation.

But if there’s one president more popular that Schapiro, it’s Jed Bartlet. Morty would definitely want a season or two to study how he can overtake Jed and become the most popular president in the land.

To be honest, this should be on everyone’s gift list. So it’s presumably on Morty’s as well. BLTs are great.

A bowl win It’s been 64 years , can we just get one?! I know we’re facing a SEC team and that we’re underdogs . Blah blah blah. If we could just win one bowl game, we’d no longer be, “The School That Has Never Made The NCAA Tournament Or Won A Bowl Game In The Last Six Decades.”

We could just be, “The School That’s Name Is

A commencement speaker invite NU has had some great commencement speakers over the last few years, and I’m sure they have another rockstar lined up. But why bother begging authors from across the nation to come impart some wisdom, when the obvious choice is right in front of us? And honestly, I’m not sure how many more hints he can drop. The man already takes the stage at every graduation! So just cut out the middle man, and give Morty his wish. thomasmeyer2010@u.northwestern.edu

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1. “Call Me Maybe” by Carly Rae Jepsen 2. “What Makes You Beautiful” by One Direction 3. “Boyfriend” by Justin Bieber 4. “Somebody That I Used to Know” by Gotye 5. “Gangnam Style” by PSY 6. “Whistle” by Flo Rida 7. “Payphone” by Maroon 5 8. “We Are Never Ever Getting Back Together” by Taylor Swift 9. “Wide Awake” by Katy Perry 10.”Want U Back” by Cher Lloyd 11. “Good Time” by Owl City and Carly Rae Jepsen 12. “Drive By” by Train — Ally Mutnick

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Through Friday December 14, you can help yourself and someone else in the Chicago area by trading food for library fines! Northwestern University Library will remove $5 in fines* for every non-perishable food item donated, for up to $30 in fines. All food received will be donated to the Greater Chicago Food Depository. *Some restrictions apply. Contact the Circulation Desk for details about your fines, acceptable items, and locations that will accept food for fines: 847-491-7633/circulation@northwestern.edu

NORTHWESTERN UNIVERSITY LIBRARY

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THE DAILY NORTHWESTERN HOLIDAY GUIDE | OPINION 5

DECEMBER 2012

Column

Letzter: There is no such thing as a ‘holiday tree’ RAFI LETZTER

GUEST COLUMNIST

Everything you think you know about Hanukkah is wrong. It is not at all like Christmas. Lumping them together under the banner of “The Holidays” is a mistake.

As I understand it from an outsider’s perspective, Christmas is a celebration of the birth of Jesus.

Although of course for many secular Americans, Jesus plays only a minor role in the holiday (or none at all).

I know that for many, Christmas is a time for families to get together and feast. There is a tree involved and an elderly reindeer handler. Gifts are given, and retail stores make enormous profits.

At the apex of the Christian year, the holiday also represents the birth of modern Christendom: the religious force that through violence, conquest,

inquest and cultural domination built a civilization that spans the entire world. Today, the CIA World Factbook reports that 2.2 billion living souls have been “saved.”

I do not mean to condemn Christianity. Bloodshed is a fact of human history, and “convert or die” has been the mantra of many faiths. My point is that the holiday comes with a certain baggage.

Hanukkah celebrates the victory of a small band of Jewish guerrillas in foreign-occupied Israel over their Greek conquerors in the second century B.C. The Greeks, according to Maccabees I and II, banned Torah and circumcision, built gymnasiums and bathhouses in Jerusalem and idols in the Holy Temple, killed pious Jews and deposed the divinelyordained high priest.

On Hanukkah, the great enemy is the usurping faith, defined by idolatry and materialism. So many aspects of Christmas, from Jesus, who matches the Jewish definition of an idol to a T, to the orgy of shopping and spending the precedes the big day, to

the bizarre impulse to generalize it to all religions, walk, talk and look like that enemy.

This is why catch-all terms like “The Holidays” demean both faiths. When you call a Christmas tree a “holiday tree” or a Christmas party a “holiday party,” the implicit statement is that the two celebrations are fundamentally the same, or at least that their distinctions are not important. Can you spot the bitter irony yet?

To Christians, using the phrase “The Holidays” says that their practices and culture have no special significance but can be universalized and used as a framework for some sort of generic faith culture lacking in substance or meaning.

To Jews, it says that somehow it is an act of politeness or kindness to subsume our celebration into the broader Christian milieu. Are Jewish children supposed to toss aside their latkes, dreidels and gelt to dance around the tree now that there’s a menorah ornament on one of those branches? Admittedly, it is a far better norm than what my grandfather’s

Sip on seasonal spirits, find holiday cheer

By PAULINA FIROZI

daily senior staffer

Over Thanksgiving break, I had a conversation with a few friends about when the “holiday season” begins. After Halloween? After Thanksgiving? Dec. 1? Whatever holiday you observe, we can all agree corporate America brings out tinsel as soon as it’s safe to take down Halloween decorations.

I mark the holidays with the time-honored tradition of Starbucks red cups. On Nov. 1, I proudly get in line to spend my hard-earned dollars on an over-priced cup of “coffee” because that cup, for me, symbolizes my favorite time of the year. Families come together, trees on campus are lined with lights, capitalism shifts into high gear and traditional lattes have a little kick.

To be honest, I’ve never been a huge fan of holiday drinks; they’ve always been a little too sweet for me. But this season, I decided to sample a few holiday favorites to try to prove my stubborn “do I get a black coffee with Splenda or a nonfat chai” self wrong.

The Pumpkin Spice Latte: “Espresso, pumpkin-flavored syrup and steamed milk. Topped with sweetened whipped cream and pumpkin pie spices.”

Starbucks: I love pumpkin pie. I think it’s the best kind. But for some reason, the sheer mention of “PSL” makes me cringe. Mostly because why would you call it that? My main concern is the sheer ambiguity of ingredients. It doesn’t quite taste like pumpkin. It does taste like cinnamon or caramel or some kind of sweetener. But again, I’m not too sure. Still this seems to be a holiday favorite, so much so that the demand caused our beloved Norbucks to run out of it for a few days. (What exactly are they not running out of?)

Needless to say, I wasn’t too distraught.

Cosi: Interestingly enough, I liked this one

better. It was definitely sweeter than the one at Starbucks, but at least it kind of tasted like pumpkin. It also kind of tasted like butternut squash soup. That may sound weird, but I promise, it was a positive. This drink had a richer flavor overall, and while I may not order it again, I was able to endure more than a few sips, which is more than I can say for its Starbucks counterpart.

The Peppermint Mocha: “Espresso, steamed milk, mocha sauce and peppermint flavored syrup, topped with sweetened whipped cream and dark chocolate curls.”

Starbucks: I like it. The mint is very subdued, almost an aftertaste to the usual mocha. But it still has a twist. This is a great cop out for a holiday drink-weary consumer like me. You may even be able to get away with pairing this with a Cranberry Bliss Bar or the Frosted Snowman Cookie for some added holiday fun.

Panera: This one tastes very, very minty. My friend could actually smell the mint while walking right next to me. This makes the mocha a little sweeter, which isn’t necessarily a bad thing. It just depends on what mood you’re in. I wouldn’t recommend having a pastry with this drink; it would be an overwhelming amount of sugar and not a high enough coffee-to-chocolate ratio. But at least this drink deserves the “peppermint” in its title.

The Peppermint Hot Chocolate: “Steamed milk with peppermint, mocha and vanilla flavored syrups, sweetened whipped cream and dark chocolate curls.”

Starbucks: This tastes exactly like the Peppermint Mocha. They’re seriously the same. I’m pretty sure it’s a conspiracy.

The Gingerbread Latte: “Espresso with steamed milk and gingerbread flavored syrup.

Topped with sweetened whipped cream and

nutmeg.”

Starbucks: It’s cinnamon liquid in a cup. I have the same complaint about this as I do the Pumpkin Spice Latte.

I don’t taste any ginger, nutmeg or anything you would expect in a gingersnap or gingerbread cookie. But it’s still a very yummy and very sweet holiday drink. Like Panera’s Peppermint Mocha, I would not recommend this with a pastry. It’s perfectly sufficient as a dessert drink on its own.

Conclusion: I must say Starbucks’ Peppermint Mocha tops my list, only because it is Rafi Letzer/Daily Senior Staffer the most traditional drink that still maintains holiday sentiment. But all in all, I’m sticking with my non-fat chai. Sorry to disappoint ... but happy holidays, everyone! paulinafirozi2015@u.northwestern.edu

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generation faced, getting beat up on the way back from school for their Jewishness — especially during the Christmas season. But why is persecution replaced with these heavy handed overtures to celebrate sanitized Christmas? Jews did not stay Jews because we were not allowed to become Christian, we stayed Jews because we did not want to.

Interfaith dialogue is a great goal and an important one, but in order for there to be interfaith dialogue, we have to collectively acknowledge that there is more than one faith in this big world of ours. So, Christian friends, put up your decorations, throw your parties, sing your songs and light up your trees.

But when you do, call them what they are. It’s your holiday, damn it. Be merry and proud.

Rafi Letzter is a Medill sophomore and a Daily Senior Staffer.

He can be reached at rafaelletzter2015@u.northwestern.edu.

If you would like to respond publicly to this column, email a Letter to the Editor to forum@dailynorthwestern.com.

Peppermint mocha ‘perfect holiday treat’ Everyone has a preference when it comes to holiday coffee beverages. Some like a little eggnog with their coffee, while a hint of gingerbread or caramel brulee does the trick for others.

But for me, it’s the peppermint mocha that really gets me in the holiday spirit.

As an admitted caffeine addict, obviously I’m already overly attached to espresso. However, when it is united with the flavor of a York Peppermint Pattie, this beverage is taken to an entirely new level.

To put my love of this drink in perspective, on my birthday, I had peppermint mocha three — yes, three — times.

An excellent combination of chocolate, coffee and peppermint, the drink makes for the perfect holiday treat. The rich chocolate, already a natural complement to the bold flavor of espresso, is only enhanced by the cool addition of peppermint.

Peppermint mocha is delicious, and not only as a hot beverage. This versatile flavoring is also delicious when served over ice, or even blended into a Frappuccino for a thicker and creamier peppermint mocha experience.

To my delight, peppermint mocha is moving beyond the coffee shop. Everywhere I turn, I encounter some variation of my favorite holiday drink — Starbucks VIA Peppermint Mocha, peppermint mocha coffee creamers and even peppermint mocha KeurigK-cups.

And Starbucks isn’t the only coffee chain serving up this magnificent variation of mocha. Dunkin’ Donuts also has its own version of peppermint mocha, as do Peet’s Coffee & Tea, Panera Bread and McDonald’s.

With so many establishments offering this drink, it’s clear I’m not the only one who can’t get enough of it. Nothing says the holidays like the taste of candy cane in your coffee.

— Lauren Caruba

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6 cooking | the daily northwestern holiday guide

December 2012

Rafi Letzter/Daily Senior Staffer

Family treats Daily staffer Chelsea Sherlock shares her holiday family recipes for peanut clusters and peanut butter kiss cookies. Sherlock made these samples in her residential hall kitchen.

Easy recipes simply sweeten holiday parties

By Chelsea Sherlock

the daily northwestern

Whether you’re celebrating Hanukkah or Christmas, baking is likely on your to-do list this holiday season. The beauty of these recipes is that they all use five ingredients or less, and only one requires actual baking. All of these recipes were successfully made in the kitchen of the North Mid-Quads residence hall with hand mixing.

Imagine how simple they’ll be at home in your mom’s kitchen!

Peanut Butter Fudge Ingredients: 3 cups of powdered sugar 1 cup of peanut butter 1 package of graham crackers 2/3 cup of butter 1 package of chocolate chips (preferably a name brand because they tend to melt better) Instructions: 1. Take half of the package of graham crackers and put them into a plastic bag, such as Ziploc.

Seal bag, and use hands to break the graham crackers into smaller pieces. Use an object that

can be rolled, such as a jar of peanut butter or a reusable water bottle, to crush the crackers until fine, like a pie crust.

Pour the crushed graham crackers into a medium-sized bowl, and repeat the process for the rest of the package. Add the powdered sugar and the peanut butter to the bowl. Use a fork or mixing spatula to mix the peanut butter, powdered sugar and graham crackers.

2. Melt the butter in the microwave — it should take about 40 seconds to a minute. Pour melted butter into the bowl and mix until the ingredients have all blended together with an even texture.

3. Using the spatula or your hands, scoop the fudge into a cake pan or storage container. If the fudge is t0o oily or moist, add some powdered sugar. If the fudge is too dry, add some more melted butter.

4. Melt the chocolate in the microwave. Melt in a bowl for a minute, then at 30 to 40 second intervals until fully melted, stirring in between. Melt the full package if you want chocolate to completely cover the fudge or half the package if you just want to drizzle the fudge with chocolate.

5. Once melted, use a spoon or fork to pour the chocolate over the fudge. Let set at room temperature or in the fridge until chocolate

hardens. A second option is to roll it into balls, one inch in diameter and coat those in chocolate, letting them harden on a sheet of wax/parchment paper.

Peanut Clusters Ingredients: 1 package of semi-sweet chocolate chips (again, preferably a name brand) Half a package of butterscotch chips 3 to 4 cups of peanuts Instructions: 1. Lay about 3 feet of wax or parchment paper on a flat surface.

2. Combine chocolate and butterscotch chips in a microwave safe bowl. Melt chips in microwave for one minute.

3. Stir and microwave for 30 second intervals until chips are fully melted, stirring between each interval. Once chips are melted, add peanuts and mix until completely covered.

4. Use a spoon or mixing spatula to scoop the peanuts onto the wax or parchment paper, dropping the clusters about an inch apart. The clusters can be whatever size you desire.

5. Wait until the chocolate hardens, then transfer to a container.

Peanut Butter Kiss Cookies Ingredients: 1 box of yellow cake mix 1 cup of peanut butter 2 eggs 1/3 cup of water 1 package of Hershey’s Kisses Instructions: 1. Preheat the oven to 375 degrees.

2. Pour cake mix and water into a mediumsized bowl.

3. Add peanut butter and eggs. Mix using a fork or mixing spatula until ingredients are fully combined.

4. Roll the mix into balls 1 inch in diameter and place on a cookie sheet 1 inch apart. Bake for eight to 10 minutes until the bottoms are golden brown with soft tops. While cookies are baking, unwrap the Hershey’s Kisses.

5. After removing the cookies from the oven, place a Hershey’s Kiss in the middle of each cookie. Use a spatula to move cookies to a cooling rack or a container where they can cool. chelseasherlock2017@u.northwestern.edu

Step two Check that all of the ingredients are mixed together.

Sometimes flour remains at the bottom of the bowl. The dough should be thick enough that you can cut it into shapes.

Sugar Cookies Ingredients: 2 cups of granulated sugar 3/4 cup of butter 2 eggs 3 tsp. vanilla 2 tsp. baking powder 1 tsp. baking soda 1/4 tsp. salt 5 cups flour Step one Cream together sugar and butter in a large bowl. Mix in eggs and vanilla until completely combined.

Add in baking powder, baking soda, salt and flour.

Step three Flour a flat surface, and place dough onto flour.

Flatten out slightly, and coat both sides in flour to prevent from sticking. Press dough out with hands or a rolling pin until a quarter of an inch thick. Take cookie cutters, dip edge in flour and cut out as many shapes as will fit. Then re-roll the dough together, and repeat the process.

Step four Heat oven to 350 degrees. Transfer cookies to a nonstick baking sheet. Back for 8-10 minutes until lightly golden brown.

Let cool and then frost, sprinkle or dust with powder sugar.

-Chelsea Sherlock Photos by Susan Du/ Daily Senior Staffer

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8 GIFTS | THE DAILY NORTHWESTERN HOLIDAY GUIDE

DECEMBER 2012

NU gear available for last-minute holiday gifts

By CHELSEA SHERLOCK

the daily northwestern

Once you finish that last final and head back home, there won’t be that many days left to find gifts for your entire family. Luckily, shopping can be pretty easy if you just get everyone Northwestern-themed presents. Here are some picks for everyone on your list.

use. Pajama pants, a poster and Northwestern school supplies are good gifts, but only if they will actually put to good use. Try personalizing your gifts at Campus Gear.

Assorted gifts: Beck’s has the best selection of random items, including NU Snuggies, or for Harry Potter fans, NU Quidditch T-shirts. Mugs, water bottles, key chains, hats, gloves, For a young wallets — child: all of that Buy some you can clothing at Beck’s f i n d at Book Store, 716 Beck’s.

Clark St., for Sales: children, rangBuying ing from baby college gear for one-pieces to everyone cheerleader uniforms. Also look on your at stuffed anigift list mals. The Norris can easily Bookstore has the add up, largest selection. so check out the For parents and clearance Chelsea Sherlock/The Daily Northwestern and sale grandparents: C onsider a GEAR GUIDE A solid gift for children and girlfriends is a teddy sections at T-shirt or sweat- bear or other stuffed animal. This teddy bear was $12.98 at the Beck’s and shirt that says Norris Bookstore. the Norris Northwestern Bookstore.

Make use of your 10 percent WildCARD dismom, dad, grandma or grandparent. Campus Gear, 1717 Sherman Ave., has plenty of options. count at Campus Gear, too. For online shopAlso, look at photo frames from Beck’s to use ping, check out fansedge.com or fanatics.com. for your favorite moment of the quarter. If your Pricing is very competitive with local stores, parents want to brag about this great school and you can have gifts shipped directly to your you are attending, consider buying them a car home, leaving some extra room for your beloved orgo textbook. decal. For the golfer in the family, golfing gear and dress clothes can be found at Beck’s and the The main focus in buying gifts is getting campus bookstore. something they will use. If the gift is clothing, ensure that it is the right size.

For friends, older siblings and significant others: chelseasherlock2017@u.northwestern.edu Get them a gift they will actually wear or

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THE DAILY NORTHWESTERN HOLIDAY GUIDE | FAMILY 9

DECEMBER 2012

All in the family: The Daily’s survival guide To boyfriends, girlfriends meeting family: Be yourself

By SAMMY CAIOLA

daily senior staffer

The holidays are a time for family — a time for love, community, tradition and memories. So if you’re a significant other being brought into the clan for the first time, it’s easy to feel out of place. But never fear: Whether you’re a new fling meeting the parents for the first time or a long-term love getting promoted to the next level of chatty aunts and crazy uncles, you’ll want to hold on to these staple rules during the inevitable onslaught of introductions. Tell the truth.

But not the whole truth. And maybe occasionally something other than the truth.

If you’re meeting family for the first time, it’s important to give them a genuine sense of who you are and how you plan to treat their cherished offspring.

1. Avoid sharing too much.

When dad asks about career prospects, you’ll no doubt have your double major in biochemistry and African studies to fall back on. But when it comes to hobbies, you may be on thin ice. There are a few past times that, while seemingly normal to you, set off a red light for parents. Motorcycles, Dungeons and Dragons and watching “Gangnam Style” on YouTube, for example. Reveal these intricacies at a later date.

The same goes for politics. Until you’ve gauged the political affiliation of your hosts, don’t say anything too extreme. I’m not saying you have to indulge the conservative-verging-on-racist grandpas out there, but it’s never good to provoke an argument on someone else’s turf.

2. Lay off the eggnog.

This one is kind of common sense, but don’t be the guy who gets a little too drunk and throws the Wii remote into the television. It’s never a pretty sight. Holiday parties can seem like the Candy Land of alcohol, but that doesn’t mean you should take advantage. First impressions require good breath and a clear head, so leave the spirits to the elders and stick to the apple cider.

To students suffering from dinner drama: Keep calm

3. Have an open mouth and an open mind.

By STEPHANIE HAINES When joining a new family, there will no doubt daily senior staffer be food, traditions and stories that you won’t understand. This is particularly true if you’re doing a holiday with someone of another faith.

It is a Hollywood myth that families reaffirm Whatever the case, try your best to their love for each other during the holiday season. If you are at all a normal person, be enlightened, not put-off.

Nothing offends a family spending the holidays with your family should make you want to stick candy canes more than when you won’t eat their food. Take small portions of in your eyeballs or stick your head in a gas everything at first, so that if you oven. don’t like it, you can discretely finHere are a few phrases that may incite ish your share. family angst at holiday gatherings. There are Further, if you really like your a few ways you can respond to them without starting a family feud. significant other, you’re going to have to get into their crazy tradi1. How do you expect to get a job with THAT major? tions at some point, so it’s better Unless you are an engineer, all to (wo)man up and do it the first time. You’ll be surprised by how Northwestern students face this crimuch you gain from a little culsis question at several points in their tural expansion. college career. Or, in Midwestern cir4. Keep snuggling to a cumstances, if you aren’t a busiminimum. ness major, you don’t have a You and your signifireal major. The best way to cant other are obviously respond to your snotty aunt close if you’re introducing or drunk uncle who asks this quesone another to loved ones. tion is to smile and say, “I am But the introductions are not so glad you asked! My major the time to show it. Physical opens a door to a lot of careers restraint is a sign of maturity and that I am considering. Let me tell you independence, so save the passion about them…” Also, turn the question on them and ask, “If you could for when you’re alone.

All in all, the rules for Illustration by Tanner Maxwell/Daily Senior Staffer go back to college and major in introduction are pretty anything you want, what would simple. Be polite. Be engaged. Be yourself. And if you study?” you’re lucky, you’ll survive the winter and win your2. Why don’t you have a boyfriend/ self an invite to the warmer, easier and far more girlfriend? relaxed Fourth of July barbecue.

Inevitable. I will also argue that there is an inherent double standard with this question; Read an extra tip in the full version of this article more girls are asked this than guys. However, online at www.dailynorthwestern.com. either gender and all sexual identities can respond with this, “I’ve been more focused on making samanthacaiola2014@u.northwestern.edu great friends, getting involved and getting good

grades. Having a significant other in my life would significantly slow me down.”

3. You have some interesting pictures on Facebook!

If you are an idiot and don’t have your profile customized very privately, you may be faced with this question. Respond with a polite joke. “Come on, Grandma, I bet you had more fun than I did in college … !” This turns the table on the person who asked. Hopefully, you won’t get stuck listening to a horribly boring story.

4. I see you voted for Obama/Romney.

Be prepared to defend your vote to any selfproclaimed political expert at your gathering.

Instead of getting into a heated argument about gay marriage or tax cuts, dwell on the fact that this was your first experience voting in a presidential election. Say, “Now I really feel like a participating citizen. What was your first time voting like?”

5. You will be forever in debt with THAT tuition at your school.

Yikes. This is often asked by a cousin, aunt or uncle that attended or had their children attend a bargain state school. Money is a tough topic to battle over hot chocolate and candy canes. So, to prevent comparing family salaries, focus on how you are taking advantage of all NU has to offer. Recite lines such as, “I really enjoy my small seminar classes about very nuanced topics; I feel like I am getting individualized attention that will help me focus on my major and career.”

6. It looks like you put on the “freshman 15!”

Both girls and guys, and not exclusively freshmen, could put on a little weight during Fall Quarter. There are plenty of valid excuses: “We are stressed with school,” “We are drinking” and “Our primal instincts are preparing us for a long, arduous winter.” Blame it on the late night studying. “All those long hours at the library … I have to keep myself awake somehow!” stephaniehaines2015@u.northwestern.edu

Shop & Dine in Downtown Evanston for the Holidays!

Free Parking in the three main garages weekdays from 5PM to Midnight and all day Saturdays and Sundays from November 22 thru January 1st

Gift Cards may be purchased at: Downtown Evanston First Bank & Trust Visitor Information Center 820 Church Street 820 Davis Street Monday – Friday, Monday – Friday, 9AM – 5PM 8:30AM – 5:30PM Saturdays, December 8 & 15 Saturday, 8AM – 1:30PM from 12 – 4PM

Downtown Evanston Gift Cards now available Online!

See Santa Saturdays, Dec 8 & 15 From 12 to 4PM Downtown Evanston Visitor Information Center 820 Davis Street

Where Chicago and the North Shore Meet

10 Entertainment | the daily northwestern holiday guide

december 2012

NU makes gingerbread creations

Upcoming releases offer variety to NU students

Stay busy with these movie and music releases coming to theatres and stores over winter break.

Movies: “The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey�

Release date: Dec. 14 Starring: Martin Freeman, Ian McKellen, Andy Serkis and Elijah Wood Details: In this “Lord of the Rings� prequel, Bilbo Baggins, Gandalf the Grey and their group of followers go on a dangerous journey to the Lonely Mountain. “Monsters, Inc. 3D�

Release date: Dec. 19 Starring: John Goodman, Billy Crystal, John Ratzenberger and Bonnie Hunt Details: They’re back. Revisit the story of Sully and Mike in 3D, as they try to out-scare the other monsters and take care of a young girl who escapes to their world. “This Is 40�

Release date: Dec. 21 Starring: Leslie Mann, Paul Rudd, Albert Brooks and Megan Fox Details: Billed as “the sort-of sequel to ‘Knocked Up,’� “This Is 40� tells the story of Pete and Debbie from the hit movie.

Judd Apatow is back as the writer and director. “Les Miserables�

Release date: Dec. 25 Starring: Hugh Jackman, Russell Crowe, Anne Hathaway and Amanda Seyfried Details: The highly anticipated movie adaptation will finally hit theaters Christmas Day. You can finally stop watching the trailer on repeat and see the story of Jean Valjean, Fatine and Cosette on the big screen.

Music: â€œÂĄTRÉ!â€?

Artist: Green Day Release date: Dec. 11 Details: Green Day’s newest album was originally set to be released in January, but because of lead singer Billie Joe Armstrong’s stint in rehab, Green Day fans get an early present. “Unorthodox Jukebox�

Artist: Bruno Mars Release date: Dec. 11 Details: Enjoy Bruno Mars’ newest album, featuring the singles “Locked Out of Heaven� and “Young Girls.� — Annie Bruce

Teal Gordon/The Daily Northwestern

Gingerbread Students participate in a gingerbread house building competition at Norris University Center. Campus Kitchens, Habitat for Humanity and the Happiness Club hosted Gingerbread Jam, which finished with the house building competition.

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THE DAILY NORTHWESTERN HOLIDAY GUIDE | LIFESTYLE 11

DECEMBER 2012

First step to avoid resolution revolt: Set realistic goals

By MANUEL RAPADA

the daily northwestern

After we prove the 2012 conspiracy theorists wrong and share some good times and food with our family and friends, let the countdown to 2013 begin.

Say whatever you want about the “New Year,� sappy metaphors included, but plenty of people take time to reflect on the past year, think about what could have been and set a resolution.

For 18 to 29 year olds, the usual resolutions top the 2013 list: fitness, finances and health.

Becoming more educated and losing weight round out the top five, according to a survey from a company conducted by a retailer of FranklinCovey time management products such as planners.

After failing miserably, yet again, in 2011 to stay fit, I established a health-related resolution for 2012: drop soda cold turkey. Aside from eating jelly beans that turned out to be 7UP flavored, I’m in the home stretch of my

resolution with flying colors.

While I wait for my endorsement deal from Minute Maid Light Lemonade, here are my tips to make that resolution last longer than a day or two.

“

Thinking of Walk the fine line between realistic and your challenging. resolution Sure, you want to save money or lose weight, in terms of but never accomplish a stages will goal at the expense of ensure it your personal well-being. Ask family, friends becomes and professionals such a goal you as a doctor to see if your goal is realistic. Although pursue you know yourself best, year-round. remember that resolutions should be something you look forward to tackling and accomplishing.

Think of your resolution as a goal with key stages.

A good resolution should incorporate several milestones to keep you engaged throughout the year. Ran a mile for the first time in under nine minutes? Great! Work on your endurance and try to run two miles in under 18 minutes, or try to cut another 10-15 seconds from your mile run. Thinking of your resolution in terms of stages will ensure it becomes a goal you pursue year-round.

Celebrate milestones with a reward.

It takes time and effort to reach a certain goal. Take a cheat day: Grab your favorite guilty pleasure food or splurge on something from Whole Foods after saving so much from shopping at CVS . Just make sure your cheat day doesn’t turn into a cheat week.

Get your friends involved.

Most of those in the FranklinCovey survey said they found sharing their goal with friends was the most helpful way to pursue that goal.

Your friends know if that habit is one you can realistically break and will “slap your hand� when you go for those hand-cut fries at Plex.

Be sure to thank them, too, for taking time to support you and your resolution.

Accept that you will probably fail.

Just like Anderson Cooper and Kathy Griffinon New Year’s Eve, resolutions can turn into train wrecks mere days. However, if you miss an exercise day at SPAC or drink one too many venti soy mocha whatevers at Norbucks, know that there’s still hope for your resolution! How you respond to any misstep is so important.

Don’t brush off the error as an example of weakness, but as a sign of the past you are trying so hard not to repeat. Whenever you feel frustrated, seek comfort in friends, family and other supporters on campus. Also, search for “You are more beautiful than Cinderella� on YouTube. Ellie Kemper wants you to succeed, too. Happy holidays, and happy resolution setting! manuelrapada2015@u.northwestern.edu

Beat break boredom by catching up on fall TV shows online

By JOSEPH DIEBOLD

daily senior staffer

We’re all familiar with the phenomenon.

You finally finish that last Friday final, grab your suitcases as fast as possible, say goodbye to your roommate who you don’t like that much anyway but will miss in that weird love-hate kind of way and hop in a cab to Midway for your flight home, excited to be free of Northwestern for the following three weeks. You hug your family, stop for dinner at your favorite restaurant and for three days, everything is merry.

And then it hits you: “I’m bored.�

Restaurants have been replaced by mom’s meatloaf, Christmas isn’t for another two weeks and your semester-school friends are still in class. You hole up in your bedroom and prepare for a winter break of Facebook stalking

and posting “I miss #Heavenston sooo much!� tweets.

Well, I’m here to tell you that you don’t have to live this way, Wildcats. Between Netflix, other ‌ well, less legal sources and your old VHS collections, the holiday season is the perfect time to binge-watch all the TV and movies you’ve missed while spending the last three months slaving over orgo and reading for Russian lit.

Here’s what you should be catching up on this December: “Nashville�: If you’re looking to latch on to a new show that should be around for a while and become a superfan who obsesses over every minor detail (and if you’re not, you clearly ended up at NU by mistake), this ABC drama might be your best bet. The series stars Connie Britton, which is really all you need to know. Coach Taylor’s wife is back as a country music star starting to lose her touch. The last five episodes

are available on Hulu and ABC.com, so catch up quickly, and then set aside your Wednesday nights for the foreseeable future. “Lord of the Rings�: With the first of three “Hobbit� movies releasing Dec. 14, what better time to catch up on the happenings in Middle Earth than with a marathon of the extended editions? Clocking in at 11 hours and 23 minutes, get started in the early afternoon and don’t be afraid to doze off to Howard Shore’s brilliant soundtrack and Aragorn’s soothing tones. “Breaking Bad� and “Arrested Development�: Brief interlude here to mention two shows, which Haley Boston already covered in last week’s edition of The Current, that are masterpieces you should really catch up on before their summer returns. “Homeland�: Last but certainly not least.

If you don’t go on Twitter on Sunday nights, you’ve missed the show everyone is talking

about, which is unfortunate because it’s the best show on TV right now (until Breaking Bad comes back this summer) but also helpful for you because you’ve missed all the spoilers that come with getting into a show late. Claire Danes is a CIA operative who suspects that Nicholas Brody, played by Damian Lewis, has been turned by terrorists following his eightyear imprisonment in the Middle East. Not available on Netflix, sadly, so grab the season one DVD or go episode-by-episode on Amazon Prime if you don’t have Showtime Anytime.

The second 12-episode season ends Dec. 16. I recommend setting aside just one day for each season: The cliffhangers after each episode will make it impossible to let go. josephdiebold2015@u.northwestern.edu

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