HOLIDAILY 2016
North Texas Daily Advertorial Feature
Page 2
North Texas Daily Advertorial Feature
NORTH TEXAS DAILY
NORTH TEXAS DAILY
North Texas Daily ADVERTISING & PUBLISHING
What’s in a name? by Shain Thomas
Santa Claus, international man of mystery, has many names.
PRINT • DIGITAL • TV • RADIO NTDAILY.COM
Director Adam R. Reese
Contributing Writer Karla Polanco
Advertising Director Adela Francis
Contributing Writer Shain Thomas
Art Direction/Design Jared Peers
Ad Executive Dane Fuentes
Advertorial Editor-in-Chief Harrison Long
Ad Executive David Tuck
ATTENTION GRADUATES!
IT’S NOT TOO LATE
GET YOUR MBA IN LESS THAN A YEAR! http://bit.ly/MoMoneyMBA
Not even all Americans refer to him as Santa. Hawaiians use the name Kanakaloka. The Hawaiian version of the jolly fellow does not conform to how the rest of the United States pictures him. In Hawaii, not surprisingly, he is dressed in flowery clothes.
associated with countries such as Hungary and Poland of Eastern Europe. Considering Saint Nicholas has a reputation for secretly giving gifts, it is not surprising the historical figure would be associated with Santa Claus.
ny, especially in Northern, Central and Eastern Germany as well as in the rest of the world, particularly in evangelical regions such as the French-speaking West Switzerland (Père Noël), the Netherlands, Scandinavia, Estonia, Latvia, Great Britain and the United States.
In the interests of maintaining a degree of historical accuracy, Saint Nicholas is Weihnachtsmann is pornot only commemorated, trayed as a round, friendly he is revered among Anold man with a long white glican, Catholic, Lutheran, beard, red and white furand Orthodox Christians. trimmed robes; Attributes In the British Isles, the name Furthermore, several Bapare his gift bag and (often) a Father Christmas is used. tist, Methodist, Presbyterian, rod. The fact that this repreThe use of the name Father and Reformed churches bear sentation already existed in Christmas, dating back to at his name. the 19th century is proved least the 16th century, was in by contemporary postcards. use during the reign of King As a patron saint, Saint In 1931, the Coca-Cola Henry VIII. During that pe- Nicholas is the protector Company used this display riod, Father Christmas was of a diverse community. for its own Christmas advertypically pictured as a large This community includes tising campaigns. The soda robust man dressed in either archers, brewers, children, company has continued to a green or scarlet red robe. merchants, pawnbrokers, use the imagery. The robe is often illustrated repentant thieves, sailors, as having fur lining. and students. Supposedly, the Christmas man brings gifts to good While there is no doubt In Germany, you will find children on Christmas the use of the name Father the name “Weihnachtsmann” Eve, while the naughty Christmas has a significant used. Weihnachtsmann is merely a rod. He thus history, the same is equally translates to Christmas unites properties of Saint true in respect of the name Man. The Christmas man is Nicholas of Myra and his Saint Nicholas. The name a symbolic figure of Christcompanion, the servant of Saint Nicholas is typically mas gift giving in GermaRuprecht.
Season Tickets Each season, MTD produces three main stage productions at the historic Campus Theatre in downtown Denton. As a season ticket holder, you not only get a discount, you’ll enjoy the comfort of knowing that your favorite seat will be waiting for you. Season tickets will be available for purchase until March 10, 2017. For more information: www.musictheatreofdenton.com
Individual Tickets
Season Tickets
(prices per show)
(prices for 3 shows)
Adults...................................$20
Adults...................................$50
Senior Citizens....................$18
Senior Citizens ...................$45
Students................................$15
Students...............................$35
The holiday season is a time of celebration. At UNT, we have so much to celebrate. Our future has never looked brighter, thanks to the nearly 38,000 talented, creative students who have chosen to pursue their dreams at UNT. Dreams are what fuel success. It’s our job to open your eyes to what’s possible, to expand your imagination and, most importantly, to help make your dreams come true. That is what we celebrate every day here — the world of opportunity that exists at UNT and because of UNT. Have a happy, safe holiday season and a great new year. Be sure to check out this year’s holiday video at president.unt.edu or on the University of North Texas YouTube channel. I hope the joy and wonder of the season carries throughout the new year.
UNT Proud, Neal Smatresk President @UNTPrez
Created by Division of University Relations, Communications and Marketing AA/EOE/ADA URCM (17-080) © 2016 UNT
Page 4
North Texas Daily Advertorial Feature A Note From Our Editor
by Harrison Long | Editor From those of us at North Texas Daily, we hope you enjoy your holiday season. This year has surprised us in what it has brought to our doorstep: a new president-elect, lost icons of a bygone era, and an uncertain future in places such as Syria, Ukraine and our neighbor to the south, Mexico. We hope that all of our readers will take time to remember the meaning behind this
time of year, and use it to make what comes next- that is, 2017- everything it can be. Happiness, good will towards one’s fellow man, appreciation for what one has and a devotion to do what is right is how we will prevail as we face the challenges ahead. The journalism community is revamping itself for what lies ahead- but in the mean time, we thank you for continuing to read us. God bless you all, and we’ll see you in the New Year.
Where did the Christmas tree come from? By Shain Thomas
The tradition of decorating a tree for the celebration of Christmas has become globally ingrained into the fabric of the holiday. As Sir Cliff Richards sang in his 1988 Christmas No.1 single “Mistletoe and Wine:”
Despite the difference of three years, both organizations agree that it was during the administration of President Franklin Pierce that the iconic symbol made its debut.
A later mention of the tradition comes from an Christmas time, mistletoe article published in the and wine Decatur Republican, dated Children singing in Christian December 27, 1888: “Mrs. rhyme Cleveland has returned to With logs on the fire and gifts Washington from the Quakon the tree er City. And it is asserted A time to rejoice in the good that despite the late disaster that we see to his business, [President Grover Cleveland] did not Considering the vast variety reduce her allowance of of decorations which can be pin money, with which she purchased, there is little doubt purchased whatever trinkets, the dressing of a Christmas she deemed indispensable, Tree plays a significant role in for the decoration of the preparing the home for the Christmas tree at the White Christmas holiday. House. And when the doors of the famous East Room Ironically, with popular are thrown open next Monsongs such as “O Christmas day night there will be a tree Tree,” “Rockin’ Around the laden with gifts, for most of Christmas Tree,” and “Unthe prominent people about der the Christmas Tree” one Washington.” could be forgiven in believing having a decorated tree While the Decatur Republiin the home has always been can article does not specifpart and parcel of Christmas ically state this was the first festivities. This is not the White House Christmas case. Tree, historians have speculated on this particular inIt might surprise you to stance’s place in the timeline. know the first instance of a Christmas tree actually In “Reminiscences of being used was in the White Washington: The Tyler House in the mid-nineAdministration 1841-1843,” teenth century. The NCTA published in The Atlantic (National Christmas Tree Monthly, volume 46 - 1880, Association) places this there is a reference to there event in the year of 1853, being a Christmas Tree. The while the University of way the article is written Illinois Champaign-Urbana suggests this was not the suggests it was actually 1856. first White House Christ-
mas Tree. It is almost as if the author of the article only mentioned the presence of the tree as an afterthought. Across the pond, in 1800, Charlotte of Mecklenburg-Strelitz, King George III’s German wife, threw a Christmas party for children. To much delight of the children, she had arranged there be a Christmas Tree be decorated for the occasion. Despite there already being a British custom of decorating the home with evergreens, the notion of decorating an entire small tree did not immediately take hold with the general population. For the most part, the decorating of a tree remained a tradition of the Royal family. Little by little, aristocratic families began to embrace the Christmas Tree tradition, evolving into the phenomenon it is today. The tradition quickly extended beyond the aristocracy to the general populace. It is now a given families celebrating Christmas decorate a tree for the holiday season, and it remains a fixture of the holiday season unlike any other to date.
Headshot of Shain Thomas, courtesy of Twitter AVI.
Page 5
North Texas Daily Advertorial Feature
Christmas songs written by Jewish authors endure today By Shain Thomas
Everyone that enjoys the songs of Christmas has a favorite traditional holiday song. Did you know much of the Christmas music penned in the mid-twentieth century was done so by Jewish songwriters?
aided Berlin in his rise above poverty. The songwriter celebrated his gratitude for such advantages by embracing American traditions. He illustrated in song the gentility that was the American Christmas.
When the Nazism reached its peak, Berlin, his wife and children believed there would be nowhere for them to go if the United States fell under Nazi influence. Understanding the dilemma which faced the Berlin family, the origin of the song “God Bless America” Many of the songs listed becomes apparent. The song embody essential aspects of can be considered a prayer the Christmas holiday. The of protection for not only importance of family and his family but also the nathe bonds of friendship play tion that had welcomed him. a significant role in what aspects of the holiday conFrank Loesser, best known tinued to be enjoyed today. for hit Broadway musicals For those of Jewish heri“Guys and Dolls” and “How tage, such as Irving Berlin, to Succeed in Business they saw the United States without Really Trying,” was as a safe-haven from the responsible for crafting the oncoming storm that was Academy Award winning Hitler’s Germany. song “Baby, It’s Cold Outside.” Berlin, originally named Israel Isidore Baline, was The song, presented as a born on May 11, 1888 duet, provides producers in Tyumen, located in with ample opportunity to what was then the Russeek diverse singers that sian Empire. Even though would not typically be Berlin had been born into found performing together. a staunchly religious family, Combining the talents of never hiding his heritage, singers from distinctly difhe was a secular Jew during ferent backgrounds adds a his adulthood. robust dynamic to the piece. It should be noted, while the heart of traditional mid-twentieth century Christmas can be found in Jewish songwriters, it is the sentiment expressed in lyric and song which is the important aspect.
Berlin was impressed by the way that Christmas was celebrated as a caring family orientated holiday, and living in the United States
Originally written and recorded for the 1949 Edward Buzzell film Neptune’s Daughter, “Baby, It’s Cold Outside” has been
performed by a multitude of singers inclusive of Rod Stewart and Dolly Parton, Martina McBride and Dean Martin (with bits from Martin’s original 1959 version) and Idina Menzel alongside Michael Bublé. In 2015, another duet was recorded by Lady Gaga and Tony Bennett for a Barnes & Noble commercial, speaking directly to the song’s origins. Santa Baby, penned in 1953 by Joan Javits, Philip and Tony Springer, was written specifically with African-American singer Eartha Kitt in mind. Based on the way Kitt approached singing the lyrics, “Santa Baby” is considered one of the most nuaned Christmas songs ever performed. “Santa Baby,” a huge hit when it was released, fell into obscurity after Kitt gave her voice to the song. While there is an argument for no one being able to match Kitt in shear sexiness, no one notable rerecorded the hit until Madonna’s 1987 version. Then in 1989, “Santa Baby” saw a resurgence in popularity with the release of the Bruce Beresford directed period drama “Driving Miss Daisy.” Interestingly, there is a degree of irony in the way in which the song is used in the film. See SONGS on pg. 11
Page 6
North Texas Daily Advertorial Feature
ROTC offers path to become office, builds leadership By Karla Polanco
of the training event is to teach cadets leadership DENTON – Taylor Hopskills and prepare them for son, a 20-year-old “real world military tactics.” sophomore finance major, is not just a University During the field training of North Texas student. event, cadets are put in Hopson is a Cadet 2nd Lieutenant in UNT’s Army situational training exReserve Officers’ Training ercises in order to learn Corps, having also been in how to react to various circumstances that they the Army National Guard for three years as a human may encounter as a soldier. The training covers imresource specialist. provised explosive device attacks, medical emergenAccording to Hopson, cies, setting an ambush, every semester the UNT Army ROTC does an over- and learning key leader engagement tactics. night field training exercise. The most recent one “We arrived at Discovery took place at Discovery Park at 2 p.m., then we Park from Nov. 18th till trained until 11 p.m.,” said Nov. 19th. The purpose
Help your community take care of its trees:
Become A Citizen Forester! What: Citizen Forester Training Program 2017
Where: KDB Office - 608 E. Hickory Street, Suite 130 When: The classes will take place from 9 a.m.—3 p.m. on the following Wednesdays:
January 25
February 8
March 29
April 19
February 22
May 24
How Much: $50 registration fee Register at kdb.org or call (940) 349-8737 To complete their certification, Citizen Foresters must volunteer
a minimum of 25 hours of community service to their local town, city, or county towards projects that involve trees on public property. With the skills acquired through the program Citizen Foresters are making lasting contributions to community forests throughout North Texas.
Hopson. “We stayed overnight at Discovery Park and woke up at 5:30 a.m.” William J. Bass, an 18-year-old freshman marketing major joined the program at the beginning of this fall semester. Ever since he was a child, he has wanted to be a soldier.
“During the training, I was placed on the opposition force,” said Bass in an email. “Our job was to act as the “enemy” and simulate an ambush on [the] other cadets.” Roman Lawson, a 27-yearold junior psychology major, has been part of the Army since 2008. This semester has been the first one for Lawson as part of the UNT Army ROTC program.
Photo courtesy Taylor Horton.
“This was my first training event with the ROTC, but I have done plenty “After graduation, most cathroughout my military dets will be commissioned career,” said Lawson. “My as second lieutenants into first training event was in either active duty, the the cold of South Korea Army Reserve or the Army near the DMZ. It was unNational Guard,” said Bass. forgettable because it was “My ultimate goal is to bemy first time experiencing come an Army officer.” that kind of training.” Once they join, the UNT Hopson explained that Army ROTC program although the UNT Army helps cadets pay for their ROTC program focuses tuition or help by giving on getting cadets in the them money for their Army, the main focus is housing accommodations academic. The program every semester. Hopson can be taken as a minor in explained that depending military science, and takon what academic year a ing the course guarantees Cadet gets a scholarship, cadets a slot as an officer the Cadet will receive a post-graduation. monthly stipend that in-
creases the more years the Cadet is in the program. “I’m an opportunist, so I perceive that pursuing my bachelors and becoming an officer in the Army are one in the same,” said Lawson in an email. “I believe that if it was not for the Army, my life would not be as successful as it has been.” Cadets work out every morning at 6 a.m. Tuesday through Thursday and also have a class on Tuesday and lab on Thursday. Hopson said that everything cadets learn in class prepares them for their semester of trainings.
Page 7
North Texas Daily Advertorial Feature Lawson recommends “The purpose of it [the the program because he UNT Army ROTC probelieves everyone should gram] is to let people know how it’s like to be choose to go to school a soldier. and learn to be an officer at the same time, instead of just joining the ranks,” “I can say that no other program has anything to said Hopson in an email. “It is easier to go this route do with warfighting,” for people who want to get Lawson said in an email. “It’s a feeling; it’s a lifeschool out of the way.” style that encompasses Hopson recommends the complexities that can the program because it mold a person into a betis a good way to balance ter version of themselves.” school and responsibilities while building a close community of friends.
Photo courtesy Taylor Horton.
For anyone interested in being part of the UNT Army ROTC program, Hopson recommends to go to the ROTC offices of UNT located on the 3rd floor of Wooten Hall. Once there, those who are interested in the program can be given more information or they can also contact Captain Harold Burke any week day from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. at his number (940) 369-8006.
“My favorite part of our program is the comradery that we have,” said Bass in an email. “When I am struggling with class or when I just feel alone, I know there is a Cadet that will help me out.”
YOUR ONE STOP COLLEGE SHOP 940.387.1313 · 1314 W. Hickory www.voertmans.com School & Art Supplies UNT Apparel Textbooks Greek Wear Photo courtesy Taylor Horton.
Page 8
North Texas Daily Advertorial Feature
Origins and meaning of the Hanukkah tradition By Shain Thomas
Official history Hanukkah, sometimes referred to as the ‘Festival of Lights’ or the ‘Feast of Dedication’, in modern Hebrew is pronounced χanu’ka. Hanukkah is the Jewish holiday commemorating the re-dedication of the Holy Temple, Jerusalem’s Second Temple, around the time of the Maccabean Revolt against the Seleucid Empire. In accordance with the Hebrew calendar, Hanukkah, lasting for eight nights and days, begins on the 25th day of Kislev.
dar, the 25th day of Kislev occurs at any time from late November to late December. The first day of Hanukkah, based on the Gregorian calendar, ironically falls on Sunday, Dec. 25. 2016. How often does Christmas Day and the first day of Hanukkah occur on the same day? Rarely does Christmas Day and the first day of Hanukkah occur on the same day.
the Seleucid Empire of Syria. King Antiochus III the Great, to pacify his newly acquired Jewish subjects, guaranteed their right to “live according to their ancestral customs” and to continue to practice their religion in the Temple of Jerusalem. The status quo remained intact for the next twenty-five years.
Jewish faction in Jerusalem, were expelled to Syria when high priest Onias seized control. Onias was the leader of a pro-Egyptian faction. The exiled Tobiads petitioned Antiochus IV Epiphanes to recapture Jerusalem.
constant practice of offering a daily sacrifice of expiation for three years and six months.” Services in Jerusalem’s Second Temple were not only halted when the temple was looted, Judaism was banned from being practiced.
In “The Jewish War: Revised Edition,” historian Flavius JoIn 167 BCE, some eight years sephus writes, “The king being after Antiochus IV Epiphanes’ thereto disposed beforehand, invasion, he ordered an altar In 175 BCE, however, an complied with them, and in honor of Zeus be erected Geographically speaking, until invasion led by Antiochus IV came upon the Jews with a inside the temple. Moreover, Great news regarding the 2017-2018 Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA)! 200 BCE, Judea was part of the Epiphanes, the son of Angreat army, and took their city Antiochus ordered pigs be Great news regarding the 2017-2018 FreeApplication Applicationfor forFederal Federal Student Aid (FAFSA)! Great news regarding the 2017-2018 Free Student Aid (FAFSA)! Ptolemaic Kingdom of Egypt. tiochus III, seemingly at the by force, and slew a great mul- sacrificed at the altar of the In 200 BCE, the Battle of Parequest of the sons of Tobias titude of those that favored temple. If this was not enough, The 2017‐2018 FAFSA was made available October 1st! niumThe saw King Antiochus III changed significantly Jewish Ptolemy, and sent out his sol2017‐2018 FAFSA was made madeavailable availableOctober October 1st!he also banned the practice The 2017‐2018 FAFSA was 1st! of Syria defeat King Ptolemy life in the region. Within the diers to plunder them without of brit milah (circumcision). When discussed inregarding relation- the 2017-2018 Great news Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA)! You can complete the applica�on online at: Great news regarding the 2017-2018 Free Application for Federal Aid (FAFSA)! V Epiphanes ofYou Egypt.can Consenext five years, the Tobiads, mercy. He also spoiled the Student Consequently, a wide-scale complete theapplica�on applica�on online at: You can complete the online at: ship to the Gregorian calenquently, Judea became part of who led the Hellenizing temple, and put a stop to the revolt was provoked. The
Great News! News! Great
Great News!
Great News!
Great News! Great News! www.fafsa.gov www.fafsa.gov Great News! News! The 2017‐2018 FAFSA Great was made available October 1st!
Great news 2017-2018October Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA)! The 2017‐2018 FAFSA wasregarding made the available 1st! The 2017‐2018 FAFSA was made available October 1st! Great news regarding the 2017-2018 Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA)! You can complete the applica�on online Youat: can complete the applica�on online at:
GREAT NEWS! www.fafsa.gov
The 2017‐2018 FAFSA was available October You can complete themade applica�on online at: 1st! www.fafsa.gov www.fafsa.gov Great News! Great news regarding the 2017-2018 Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA)! Great news regarding the 2017-2018 Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA)! Great news regarding the 2017-2018 Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA)!
Youthe canopportunity complete the online at: You have have to applica�on complete your your applica�on You the opportunity to complete applica�on You the opportunity tomade complete your applica�on The have 2017‐2018 FAFSA was available October 1st! to several months earlier than this year’s! There’s no need need several months earlier than thisStudent year’s! There’s no The 2017‐2018 FAFSA was made available October 1st! Great news regarding the 2017-2018 Free Application for Federal AidThere’s (FAFSA)! several months earlier than this year’s! no need toto The 2017‐2018 FAFSA was made available October 1st! can complete the at: your wait un�l un�l your taxes are done. Students online and parents should You have the opportunity toYou complete your Youapplica�on havedone. theapplica�on opportunity to complete applica�on wait your taxes are Students and parents should wait un�l your taxes are done. Students and parents should You can complete the applica�on online at: You can complete the applica�on online at: several months earlier this2015 year’s! no needagain. to several months earlier than this year’s! There’s no need to usethan their 2015 taxThere’s informa�on again. use their tax informa�on The 2017‐2018 FAFSA was made available October 1st! use their 2015 tax informa�on again. wait un�l your taxes are done. Students and should waitparents un�l your taxes are done. Students and parents should
www.fafsa.gov www.fafsa.gov You have the opportunity to complete your applica�on www.fafsa.gov use their 2015 informa�on again. Youtax can complete the applica�on online at: use their 2015 tax informa�on again. www.fafsa.gov several months earlier than year’s! There’s no need to wait? You have the opportunity tothis complete your applica�on UNT’s Priority Deadline will be March 15, 2017, but why
UNT’s Priority will be beMarch March15, 15, 2017, butwhy why wait? UNT’s Priority Deadline will 2017, but wait? wait un�l your Deadline taxes arethan done. and parents should several months earlier thisStudents year’s! There’s no need to UNT’s Priority Deadline be March 15, informa�on 2017, whyStudents wait? UNT’s Priority Deadline and will be March should 15, 2017, but why wait? usewill their 2015 again. wait un�l your tax taxes are but done. parents You have the opportunity to complete your applica�on use 2015 tax informa�on again. your You have the to complete applica�on You their have the opportunity opportunity tothis complete applica�on several months earlier than year’s!your There’s no need to several months earlier than this year’s! There’s no need to UNT’sun�l Priority will bethis March 15, There’s 2017, but wait? several months earlier than year’s! nowhy need to wait yourDeadline taxes are done. Students and parents should wait un�l your taxes are done. Students and parents should For more information, please visit: For more information, please visit: wait un�l yourDeadline taxes are done. Students and parents UNT’s Priority will be March 15, 2017, but whyshould wait? use their 2015 tax informa�on For more information, please visit: Youinformation, have the opportunity to complete your again. applica�on For more please visit: use their 2015 tax informa�on again. For more information, please visit: https://studentaid.ed.gov/sa/sites/default/files/2017-18-fafsa-updates-students-parents.pdf https://studentaid.ed.gov/sa/sites/default/files/2017-18-fafsa-updates-students-parents.pdf use their 2015 tax informa�on again. https://studentaid.ed.gov/sa/sites/default/files/2017-18-fafsa-updates-students-parents.pdf https://studentaid.ed.gov/sa/sites/default/files/2017-18-fafsa-updates-students-parents.pdf https://studentaid.ed.gov/sa/sites/default/files/2017-18-fafsa-updates-students-parents.pdf several months earlier than this year’s! There’s no need to Deadline will be March 15, 2017, but why wait? wait un�l your UNT’s taxes Priority are done. Students and parents should UNT’s Priority Deadline will be March 15, 2017, but why wait? UNT’s Priority Deadline information, please visit:will be March 15, 2017, but why wait? use their 2015 For taxmore informa�on again.
www.fafsa.gov
https://studentaid.ed.gov/sa/sites/default/files/2017-18-fafsa-updates-students-parents.pdf For more information, please visit: https://studentaid.ed.gov/sa/sites/default/files/2017-18-fafsa-updates-students-parents.pdf
UNT’s Priority Deadline will be March 15, 2017, but why wait? For more information, please visit: For more information, please visit:
Page 9
North Texas Daily Advertorial Feature
Jewish priest Mattathias, along with his five sons: Jochanan, Simeon, Eleazar, Jonathan, and Judah were fundamental to the rebellion staged against Antiochus beginning with Mattathias killing a Jew who wanted to capitulate with Antiochus’ orders. By 166 BCE, Mattathias had died. Subsequently, Judah was installed as leader. The following year, the revolt against the Seleucid monarchy finally attained the successful conclusion the now late Mattathias had struggled to achieve. Because of their success, the Temple was rededicated in accordance with Judaic tradition. Hanukkah was established to celebrate the event. Judah ordered the Temple to be purified. Work on a new
altar, one which replaced that which was polluted by pig’s blood, soon began. In respect to the Talmud, pure unsullied olive oil with the seal of the high priest was essential for the lighting of the menorah in the Temple. The menorah required to burn the duration of the night every night. It was discovered one of the flask contained only enough oil to burn for one day. Surprisingly, even though there was not sufficient oil to last for two days, let alone a week, it continued burning for eight days. This allowed sufficient time to prepare a fresh supply of kosher oil for the menorah. Consequently, an eight-day festival, the Festival of Lights, was declared.
As it is with other religious celebrations, Hanukkah is celebrated with a series of consecutive nightly rituals which are performed throughout the duration of the eight-day holiday. Some of the rituals are family-based, whereas, other rituals are communal. Because of the significance of the holiday, especially considering its place in Jewish history, there are several special daily prayers which are added to services. Furthermore, there is a section added to the blessing after meals.
past 100 years.” Karkabi went on to say that “For this first time since 1959, Christmas and the first night of Hanukkah fall on the same day.”
Proximity to Christmas According to an article published by Houston Chronicle reporter Barbara Karkabi on Dec. 23, 2005, “Christmas and Hanukkah have fallen on the same day only four times in the
The Festival of Lights is observed by the kindling of the lights of a nine-branched candelabrum known as a menorah, also referenced as a Chanukiah or Hanukiah. A typical menorah consists
While there have been multiple near misses with the first day of Hanukkah falling either on Christmas Eve or Dec. 26 since 1777, inclusive of the coming Festival of Lights, the beginning of the Jewish holiday has fallen on Christmas Day, officially, only eight times: 1777, 1796, 1826, 1872, 1902, 1940, 1978 and 2016.
of eight branches with an additional, visually distinct, branch. The extra candle, with which the others are lit, is referred to as the shamash which means “attendant.” The attendant light is either above or below the candles representative of the length of the festival. One the first night of the festival, the first of eight candles is lit. Each night of the festival, one additional candle is lit and subsequently, by the eighth night the lighting of the candelabrum is complete. While Hanukkah observers go to work as usual, it is understood they should have returned home no later than nightfall so that they can participate in the ritual lighting of that evening’s candle.
HOLIDAY SALE EVERYTHING 50% OFF SALE MONDAY 12/12/2016 (9AM-8PM)
1701 BRINKER ROAD–NEXT TO WALMART MON-SAT 9AM-8PM | SUN 11AM-7PM
Page 10
North Texas Daily Advertorial Feature
REVIEW: ‘On A Snowy Morning’ refreshing, original By Shain Thomas
potential for her character? With a vastly different Holi“On A Snowy Morning,” Mrs. day focus to the productions Marsden addresses the characClaus is Coming to Town ter’s identity brilliantly. we typically seen this time of year, “On A Snowy Morning” “Mrs. Claus is a woman who Wed., Nov. 30, saw the first has long gone under-acis unquestionably a refreshnight of “On A Snowy Morn- ing change. Marsden’s play knowledged,” Marsden said. ing,” a Christmas themed play explores the life of often-for- “She has been under-appreciwritten and directed ated, much like the domestic gotten Mrs. Claus. by Department of Commulabor many women undernication Studies graduate Who is Mrs. Claus? What does take during the holiday season.” student and teaching assisshe represent? What is she like tant, Anna Marsden. Except for the 2012 Mark as an individual? What is the Jean directed television movie “Finding Mrs. Claus,” many productions do not afford The Linda and Mitch HartINSTITUTE for WOMEN Conductors Mrs. Claus a first name. The title character in “Finding Mrs. Claus,” listed on IMDb as Jessica Claus, is one of only a few instances where she is acknowledged by first name.
Six of the world’S moSt exciting women conductorS featuring the dallaS opera orcheStra
It’s a thrIllIng EvEnIng of opEra MoMEnts ...and It’s at Unt! 7:30 PM, Sunday, Dec. 4 Murchison Performing Arts Center Tickets only $5
For additional information or tickets: dallasopera.org/iwc
Based on the evidence of Marsden’s play, there is no doubt the entire cast fully committed themselves to the performance. The Department of Communication Studies has three distinct areas of study: Interpersonal/ organizational communication, rhetorical studies, and performance studies.
of an individual distinctly independent to that of her husband. She is either presented as a cameo role and or a background character with little or nothing to add to the story. With the vast number of productions which downplay Mrs. Claus, it would be remiss of me to not acknowledge at least one exception.
Performance studies is the area In a more modern updated of communication studies in interpretation of Mrs. Claus, which Marsden excels. During the British supermarket chain her degree program, Marsden ‘Marks & Spencer’ produced was required to observe and a Christmas themed comscrutinize exactly how performercial wherein the character, mance is fundamentally central played by Janet McTeer, is the to human development and principle protagonist. cultural identity. In the commercial, by way In the second act of William of driving a snowmobile The acknowledgment of a Shakespeare’s “As You Like It,” and flying a helicopter, Mrs. first name is a step in recogJaques rightfully said to Duke Claus is seen delivering a nizing we are not defined by Senior, “All the world’s a stage, present to a girl in London. the person we marry. Marsand all the men and women The commercial closes with den examined various aspects merely players; they have their her saying to Santa “Well it of Mrs. Claus as a distinct exits and their entrances.” wouldn’t be fun if you knew individual separate to that of all my secrets.” This indicates Santa. As I am sure any student that Mrs. Claus has a secret life of has taken a performance her own in which she delivers With a significant amount of studies course will underChristmas presents. inspiration coming from the stand, human beings are nevcast members own Christmas er not performing a role for Like the Marks & Spencer experiences, Marsden’s acting someone. The performance commercial, Marsden’s play talent delivered a production which individuals present to presents a character in which fitting of the holiday season. the outside world is undoubt- there is real substance. edly a tool which is used The cast brings together the to communicate different “On A Snowy Morning,” is talents of Haleigh Heinley, messages. dates are Nov. 30th - Dec. Kara Jo Peed, Krysta Over3rd at 7 p.m. and Dec. 4th at ton, Jayme Carrico, KenneIn many productions, time 3 p.m. in GAB 321. A talkdy Wilkinson, Brooke Parr, and again, Mrs. Claus has back will take place after the Taylor Bell, Amanda Sileo, not been presented to the performance scheduled for and Hannah Mosing into a world with a fully fleshed out Saturday, Dec. 3rd. cohesive narrative. character truly representative
Page 11
North Texas Daily Advertorial Feature
Johnny Marks made a name for himself in crafting the “Santa Baby” has also been popular Christmas songs used in films such as Mixed “Rudolph the Red-Nosed Nuts (1994), Elf (2003), Reindeer” “Rockin’ Around Boynton Beach Club (2005) the Christmas Tree” and and The Holiday (2006). “Have a Holly Jolly Christmas”.
SONGS, from pg. 5
In 2000, the Australian actress and singer Kylie Minogue reached #6 in the British music charts because of download sales. The version of the song used in the 2006 Nancy Meyers directed film “The Holiday” was that recorded by Minogue. In addition to films, “Santa Baby” was also used in the British television series “Gavin and Stacey” for the series’ 2008 Christmas Special.
York Jewish family. Marks might have been expected to follow in the footsteps of his father’s career path. This was not the future Marks had in mind for himself. From an early age, Marks expressed an interest in song writing. Marks presented his audience with music which fitted American traditions perfectly.
ADD US ON SNAPCHAT!
Marks, born Nov. 10, 1909 in Mount Vernon, New York, was also responsible for writing “A Holly Jolly Christmas,” which was initially recorded by the Quin- The traditions Americans to Sisters, was later released embrace are varied because by Burl Ives. “Run Rudolph that is what the United States is: an undeniably Run,” populized by guitarmulticultural melting ist, singer and songwriter pot. There is a boldness to Chuck Berry, was also one accepting diversity which is of Marks’ creations. quintessentially an American tradition. This tradition Marks, a graduate of Colis encapsulated in the mugate University, had been sic which is produced. born into an affluent New
List of songs penned by Jewish writers Research by Shain Thomas
1930s • “Santa Claus Is Coming to Town” (1934), Written by Fred Coots and Haven Gillespie • “Winter Wonderland” (1934), music by Felix Bernard, lyrics by Richard B. Smith 1940s • “White Christmas” (1941), lyrics and music by Irving Berlin • “Happy Holidays” (1942), lyrics and music by Irving Berlin • “Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas” (1944), Written by Ralph Blane and Hugh Martin • “Baby, It’s Cold Outside” (1944), lyrics and music by Frank Loesser • “Let It Snow!, Let It Snow!, Let It Snow!” (1945) music by Jule Styne, lyrics by Sammy Cahn
• “Here Comes Santa Claus (Right Down Santa Claus Lane)” (1947), Written by Gene Autry and Oakley Haldeman • “Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer” (1949), lyrics and music by Johnny Marks • “Blue Christmas” (1949), Written by Billy Hayes and Jay Johnson 1950s • “Silver Bells” (1950), lyrics and music by Jay Livingstone and Ray Evans • “Frosty the Snowman” (1950), Written by Steve Nelson and Walter Rollins • “It’s Beginning to Look a Lot Like Christmas” (1951), Written by Meredith Willson • “Santa Baby” (1953), lyrics and music by Joan Javits, Philip Springer and Tony Springer
• “Home for the Holidays” (1954), Music by Robert Allen and lyrics by Al Stillman • “Jingle Bell Rock” (1958), Written by Joseph Carleton Beal and James Ross Boothe • “Little Drummer Boy” (1958), Written by Katherine Davis, Henry Onorati and Harry Simeone • “Rockin’ Around the Christmas Tree” (1958), lyrics and music by Johnny Marks 1960s • “Do You Hear What I Hear?” (1962), Music by Gloria Shayne Baker and lyrics by Noël Regney • “It’s the Most Wonderful Time of the Year” (1963), lyrics by Eddie Pola, music by George Wyle • “Have a Holly Jolly Christmas” (1964), lyrics and music by Johnny Marks
DECOR, CLOTHES, HOUSEWARES, & FURNITURE 1721 N.Carroll Blvd. 940-591-RUTH (7884) Tues.-Sat. 10AM-6PM
BOOKS, RECORDS, CDS 615 Sunset Blvd. 940-387-RUTH (7884) Tues.-Sat. 10AM-5PM
All proceeds go to Denton Habitat for Humanity
25% off non-sale items w/ student ID Valid thru 1/31/17!
American Campus Communities gives you the college experience you’ll love.
CITY PARC AT FRY STREET
UCENTRE AT FRY STREET
Apply online today at
DENTONSTUDENTHOUSING.COM UPTOWN APARTMENTS
College communities to fit your lifestyle, & your budget. All just steps to campus. █
Great locations to campus
█
Private bedrooms & bathrooms available
█
Fully furnished apartments
█
Amenities for a fit & healthy lifestyle
█
Academically-oriented environments
█
Professional, on-site management & maintenance
█
All utilities included
█
Individual liability leases available
█
Roommate matching available
SAVE $150 WITH ZERO DEPOSIT Where students love living. ®
AMERICANCAMPUS.COM Fees, amenities & utilities included subject to change. Electricity up to a monthly cap. Limited time only. See office for details.