February 12, 2015
VALENTINE’S DAY ISSUE
PHOTO ILLUSTRATION BY EDWIN GANO / STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER
Tracing Cupid’s arrow, the evolution of Valentine’s Day
As you grow older, Valentine’s Day begins to take on a different meaning, so how you celebrate varies accordingly from year to year. EDWIN GANO / STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER
RACHEL NAROZNIAK STAFF WRITER
As the radio stations begin to play the same shuffle of slow ballads, and your TV is overtaken by jewelry store advertisements, Cupid readies his bow and arrow, preparing to take aim at hearts this February 14th. Inside Beat is celebrating the holiday with a little storytelling — let’s take a look at how Valentine’s Day is redefined throughout the years.
THE SCENE: MIDDLE SCHOOL
Cue the nostalgia of the “good old days,” when Valentine’s Day meant propping a tricked-out, brown paper bag on your school desk and waiting with anticipation to see the card your crush selected just for you. Sure, he or she was also required to give ever yone else in the class a card as well, but did he or she give ever yone else a valentine with smiling, dancing hearts declaring “You’re sweet, Valentine?” In retrospect, probably, but in your love-fueled sugar kick, you can’t
help but feel giddy. It seems that all of the days spent plucking petals off of flowers, asking, “does he love me, does he love me not?” finally paid off. It’s inevitable, the two of you are obviously going to get married.
THE SCENE: HIGH SCHOOL
Much to your mother’s relief, gone is the stress of choosing a cool, unique boxed set of 30 valentines to distribute to your classmates. You’re too old for valentines now, and would probably be laughed right out of
homeroom if you dared to show up with even one for that special someone. Walking down the hallway, you can’t help but notice that just about every girl you see incorporated even the slightest bit of pink or red into her outfit that day. As you make your way to gym class, you flash a coy smile at the special someone who coincidentally happens to be standing by his/her locker, and realize that this could be the historical day in which you receive your first kiss. Good thing you packed gum and breath mints.
THE SCENE: COLLEGE
For some (okay, maybe most considering the rarity of college relationships) Februar y 14th is another day to bide time, waiting for the, and consistently overshadowed holiday, Februar y 15th, to dawn. Other wise known as the grand, chocolate-covered, cherr y spangled day in which all unsold Valentine’s Day chocolate is adorned with a “75% off” sale sticker, the superiority of the 15th is primarily celebrated by singles, and chocolate fiends
alike. Viva la broke college student budget. For others, Valentine’s Day is synonymous with “Judgment Day,” when the romanticized, confusing characteristic of college hookups might possibly be demystified, or at least blamed on Cupid. You’ve been wondering all month long: is he or she bae? Now, at last on this one day, the truth about that cute guy or girl might be revealed. Did he or she really want the lecture notes, or was it simply a carefully crafted ploy to snag your email address, and later, your heart? Who knows, but it certainly can’t hurt to keep hitting the refresh button in your inbox. You know, just in case an email full of sweet nothing’s happens to appear. While Inside Beat cannot yet predict the ways in which Valentine’s Day will inevitably change as the years continue to pass, we note that there is always novelty in the unknown and hope your Valentine’s Day is as chocolate filled and memorable (or unmemorable) as you so desire.
A throwback to the good ol’ days, when decorated valentine bags were displayed on desks. EDWIN GANO / STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER
February 12, 2015
Valentine’s Day Edition Page 3
DIY gifts sure to capture hearts, liberate bank accounts CHRISTINA COLON STAFF WRITER
Low on time, cash and creative ideas? You’re in luck. We’re about to save you tons of trouble and money, at no cost to impressing your loved one.
EDIBLE ARRANGEMENT
Chocolate is the go-to treat, but oh so basic. Sugar comes in a whole slew of variations, so if you’re going to treat them, you might as well mix it up. Opt for items in other flavors –– you can find a wide selection of candy nearly anywhere, so gather some fruity, sour and minty options. Other venues sell an assortment of cupcakes, candies and cookies, so if your budget allows, purchase these at a local bakery. When your collection is complete, head to the dollar store and purchase a gift basket and large shrink-wrap bag. Place your goodies inside, wrap them up and add the finishing touches with a ribbon or bow. For extra brownie points, throw in a package of their favorite tea, coffee or wine!
CRAFTY COLLAGE
When it comes to cute pictures, there’s no need to select a boring
album or single frame. Your love er and add a few decorations playing in a nearby park. If it’s for your partner is big, so go out to make it look less plain). Fill too cold to spend hours on the and get a poster board that shows with pre-paid tickets to a concert swings, settle for heading home your devotion. Stick photographs they’ve been dying to see, take and impressing your date with of the both of you in the shape of a out menus to their favorite eater- your awesome DVD collection heart, or use arrows starting from ies, their go-to vending machine for a killer movie marathon. your early years to more recent snack and anything else that you MASON JAR FULL OF snapshots, ending with a quote know they’d like. They’ll treaAFFECTION that encompasses your relation- sure this box of simple pleasures There are a million ways to ship –– you show you can look some care, and this up online is one of them. or steal one Cut scrap or from a popu- “The best things in life are free, and believe it or not, there notebook palar romance per into 4x5 novel. Fill the pieces and are ways to spend the entire day without rest of the write out all blank space the things you having to spend a dime.” with doodles, love about lyrics, funyour person, ny insiders, moments stickers and glitter –– there’s no for years to come. you’ve shared that stand out or limit to what you can include. You promises you intend to keep, like ROAD TRIP, ANYONE? might want to snap a picture of The best things in life are giving them awesome things they the moment you give them their free, and believe it or not, there will forever be able to hold on gift –– their expression is totally are ways to spend the entire day their shelf and in their heart. going to be worth capturing. without having to spend a dime. PERSONALIZED COUPONS All it takes is a car and a game LOVE KIT All those index cards you own No one knows your lover bet- plan. Spend the afternoon shop- will help you pull of this next ter than you do, so show them ping, preferably a place that spe- creative move. On each, draw a just how much you pay attention. cializes in books, records and variety of images, which will repGet a shoebox and cover it with clothes –– thrift shops are an resent your stack of vouchers. magazine articles, or a brown ideal location. End the outing by Use emojis as inspiration for each paper bag (use a colorful mark- going for a walk, or better yet, card: kissy lips for a Kiss Any-
time, car for Last Minute Ride, martini glass for Free Drink, toilet for Clean Bathroom, etc. Use a hole puncher and string to make it into a miniature coupon book, but make sure you let them know they can only use each one once, no expiration date required.
QUICK FIXES
If you’re really in a tight bind, resort to these simple solutions: Make them a Happy Meal. Prepare a plate of their favorite food, and serve to them in bed. Give them an article of clothing sprayed with your scent. They’ll appreciate the sentiment, and it’ll help them think of you when you’re not around. Offer a free massage. Because college is stressful, and nothing is better than being catered to by a loved one. Tell them that you love them. Because at the end of the day, that’s all they really want to hear and know. For more stories on arts and entertainment, food and lifestyle check out targuminsidebeat.com.
Bottoms up, toast to love with homemade drink recipe RACHEL NAROZNIAK STAFF WRITER
Whether you’re planning on playing footsie with that special someone at a romantic restaurant, canoodling in the kitchen while making a homemade Valentine’s day dinner, or rebelling against the holiday by taking advantage of the various heart shaped pizza deals with friends, somehow, food in its various forms always seems to steal the Valentine’s Day spotlight. For those 21 and over, redirect the attention by following these simple steps to make the Drunk in Love, a sweet drink sure to either woo your valentine or change the color scheme of Valentine’s Day from pink and red to a blackout ––
for those looking to celebrate in a manner that’s more rambunctious than romantic.
WHAT YOU’LL NEED:
Cranberry juice Vodka Seltzer Decorative sugar Conversation heart candy Step One: Before you make your drink as strong as your love for your significant other, or as weak as your love for Valentine’s Day, sprinkle some colorful, decorative sugar around the rim of the martini glass. If you’re notorious for your sweet tooth, feel free to sprinkle some sugar in the glass as well. Finally, for aesthetic value, toss a few conversation hearts into the drink for added flavor.
Dusted with sugar, the sophisticated Drunk in Love is sure to please your lover or friends. MICHELLE KLEJMONT / MANAGING EDITOR
Step Two: Otherwise known as the part where you decide just how content you are with being single, or taken, it’s time to uncap the vodka, and mix it in with the seltzer and cranberry juice. If you splurged on Grey Goose or Ciroc to impress, by all means, make like a bartender to create a delicious, evenly mixed
drink. Alternatively, if your bank account limited you to the likes of Traveler’s Club, throw a few water bottles in the fridge for the morning after. Be warned, a heavy hand while pouring and your single status could make texting your ex seem like a good idea. (It’s not.) After all, there’s really nothing
like an alcoholic beverage and an inscribed conversation heart to help you get over your anxiety of finally confessing “I love you.” When taking and posting pictures on social media seems like the best idea ever after a few rounds of the Drunk in Love, be sure to include us in your captions with the hashtag #RULOVING.
Local restaurants to wine, dine your Valentine’s day date
Harvest Moon, located on 392 George Street, offers window seating, live music and is planning a special menu for Valentine’s Day. EDWIN GANO / STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER
JANINE PUHAK STAFF WRITER
Sugar, spice and all things ordered twice –– that’s what quality Valentine’s Day dining is made of. Whether you’re out to impress a new boo or an old flame, choosing the right spot to grab a bite can make all the difference for the next 364, less-romantically commercialized days of the year. We’ve done some investigating and unearthed some of the area’s greatest hidden gems, all local spots that are sure to please. Noted for their warm ambiance, sundry menus and friendly service, these cafés are sure to make sparks fly no matter your budget or campus location. Whether you are looking to
hang close to home or find a change of scenery, all of the eateries featured are no more than a bus stop or quick car ride away from campus. Tucked away beyond the Raritan, burrowed under Easton Ave or on a windy drive down the road to Edison, here are some of the best cozy nooks to relax, unwind and celebrate with your special someone. Reservations are sometimes required, so check in with each café for more details. Play your cards right, and this could be your best February 14th yet.
HIDDEN GROUNDS, NEW BRUNSWICK PRICE RANGE: $
There was once a sad, decaffeinated time when College Avenue lacked any specialty coffee shops
where students could exhale and refuel between classes. Then poof, like magic, Hidden Grounds arose on the scene two years ago, and nothing has been the same since. A favorite spot known for their wide selection of beverages, light sandwiches and freshly ground espresso beans gathered from all over the world, be sure to check out their special V-Day drink, the Raspberry Mocha. Rich, decadent and sweet, it’s sure to hit all the right notes.
DISH CAFÉ, HIGHLAND PARK PRICE RANGE: $$
There’s something about a diner that feels like home, and Dish Café’s bustling dining room and hearty portion sizes are nothing less than the neighborhood’s favorite
kitchen. This scrumptious spot offers a mix of American and Greek diner classics, like home fries, vegetable omelets and soups, while also balancing an excellent array of creative daily specials, like wild breakfast burritos or Nutella stuffed crepes. Their special Valentine’s menu has yet to be announced, so be sure to stay tuned for what they dream up for this holiday. The five-minute spin across the river is totally worth it for Dish Café’s snug atmosphere and delicious menu, sure to shoot an arrow straight through your heart. Your first visit there will surely not be your last.
SUSHI PALACE, EDISON PRICE RANGE: $$$
A small change of scenery can do a whole lot of good, and Sushi Palace is an idyllic destination for the couple beckoned by adventure. You can’t go wrong with their two for $50 all-you-can-eat holiday special, which offers no less than 70 different kinds of rolls from their sushi bar! The naturally low-fat fish and rice that make up each roll are also high in protein and vitamins, making the plush Sushi Palace a perfect
pick for those committed to living healthy in 2015. Located in nearby Edison, this royal Japanese wonder lives up to all the hype.
HARVEST MOON, NEW BRUNSWICK PRICE RANGE: $$$$
On any given evening, this elegant brewery and café is a goto spot for many local students, alumni and faculty alike, so be sure to call ahead if you plan to settle down here for the 14th. They have an incredible menu in the works for Valentine’s Day, so save your appetite and prepare to be dazzled. Offering a Cajun shrimp dip with caviar appetizer, grilled artichoke stuffed with lemon pepper basil oil, in addition to coffee-rubbed rack of lamb with a sweet potato au gratin finished off with a fire roasted veggie mélange, Harvest Moon gets an A+. Don’t forget about their fantastic live music, window seating overlooking George Street and fresh ales on tap for the 21 and over. Treating your special someone to an evening here will surely make their taste buds and their heart melt.
Sushi Palace, located in Edison, offers various styles of all you can eat sushi for one flat rate. EDWIN GANO / STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER
February 12, 2015
Valentine’s Day Edition Page 5
Reveal your sugary side with Thomas Sweet chocolates
Thomas Sweet’s ribboned, gold packaging is as rich as its chocolate, ensuring that your Valentine’s mouth will water at first sight of it. YINGJIE HU / STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER
NATALIE LIN CONTRIBUTING WRITER
Everyone knows that Valentine’s Day and chocolate go hand-in-hand. From chocolate-covered strawberries to candy hearts, this holiday isn’t complete without satisfying your craving for a sugary treat. Whether you’re happily in a relationship, searching for “bae,” or perfectly content with singledom, one local chocolatier stands out from the rest to help us celebrate our favorite sappy holiday. Thomas Sweet, both a gift store and ice cream shop, is situated right near the intersection of Easton Avenue and Hamilton Street. As Valentine’s Day and the socalled “cuffing season” is still upon us, Thomas Sweet’s Chocolate and Gift location is buzzing with custom-
ers. The shop window bursts with teddy bears, hearts, balloons and gift baskets. A sign out on the sidewalk proclaims “Order Now for Valentine’s Day: Chocolate covered strawberries, chocolate roses and more…” Inside, the shop is a dizzying array of gifts, balloons, cards, candies, plush toys and an enormous amount of different chocolate products. Toward the register is an eye-catching glass display where there is a large selection of fresh chocolate confections including truffles, almond bark, pretzels, caramel and, not to mention, the beautiful chocolate-covered strawberries. Moving down the display to the back of the store, I was surprised to see such a large assortment of homemade fudge in so many flavors. The back of the store is packed with picture frames, gift boxes and
plush toys, but I was amazed to see the multitude of themed chocolate. There were chocolate footballs, makeup sets, guitars, animals, lollipops and interestingly, handcuffs and chocolate body parts! Prices are reasonable for any budget. For example, it is $1.75 for a bag of jumbo malt balls, $6.50 for the chocolate handcuffs and $28.75 for a special order of chocolate covered strawberries in a gold gift box. Overall, any fan of sweet treats would enjoy this shop — their chocolate is of highest quality, their gifts are unique and their selection is enormous. I would recommend Thomas Sweet on all levels, whether you’re looking for gifts for friends or family, to impress that special someone or simply to satisfy that craving for something sweet!
Thomas Sweet offers a variety of gifts ranging from candy to cards. YINGJIE HU / STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER
Step outside the heart-shaped box, how to snag a crush CHRISTINA COLON
SPECIAL DELIVERY
STAFF WRITER
What’s worse than liking someone? Working up the courage to do something about it. Making a move is scary, sure, but that doesn’t mean you can’t make it fun. Use these sneaky-sweet tips to grab your crush’s attention, and we promise, they won’t be able to resist you.
USE YOUR AUTHORITY
Nothing is worse than getting a parking ticket, but the one you give will be less of a wallet sucker, and way more of a pleasant surprise. On the windshield of their car, leave a “ticket” explicitly addressing their “fine”: letting you take them out on a date.
MAKE THEM BUBBLY
Nab a bottle of Orange Crush soda and a black sharpie. Cross out the “Orange,” and write “I HAVE” above the “Crush” and a “YOU” below it. That way it reads: “I HAVE A CRUSH ON YOU”. Don’t worry, you won’t come off as thirsty — just make sure they see your message, that way they don’t think you’re just handing out a free drink.
SURVEY SAYS…
Embrace the age of digital flirtation. E-Mail a self-made questionnaire to your prospective boo, and ask questions regarding their favorite places to go, things to eat, movies to watch, campus spots to occupy, etc. For the final question, ask if they’d be willing to have you treat them to a good time at one of their selected hot spots. Whether they answer yes or no be sure to thank them anyway for their participation.
The best way to someone’s heart is through their stomach. Order a pie — bonus points if you include their favorite toppings — and personalize it with a message. Yes, this may seem like an overdone tactic, but not if you include phrases that are out of the box. Some suggestions: “You make me feel gooey inside,” or “I want a pizza you.” Don’t worry if what you say comes off as cheesy — the one you want will be guaranteed to eat it up.
PICTURE THIS
Movies get a lot of criticism for depicting so called unrealistic expectations of relationships, but they actually serve as the perfect inspiration for this next move, first portrayed in the film “Love Actually.” To pull off this romantic antic, head to the nearest mall, pop in a photo booth, and using decent sized poster boards, have each snapshot display the following message: To Me…You…Are…Perfect. Leave it at their front door or slip it underneath. You will be sure to get the approval of their roommates for adding your own twist to the wellknown scene.
GO OLD FASHIONED…IN STYLE
What better way to articulate the language of love, than to write a letter? Pour your heart out on the page, but instead of sticking it any old envelope — place it in a bottle instead. Top it with a cap or cork to keep your words safe and dry. Go the extra mile and place the bottled message in their sink; fill the sink with water for an added effect, and be prepared for the tsunami of affection headed your way.
HOW SWEET
If you’re really on the shy side, there’s no reason why you have to tell someone directly that they give you butterflies. Use food to flirt! Set up a riddle on their table, using these household items: What You’ll Need: An apple, fake eyeball What this Implies: You are the apple of my eye. What You’ll Need: A box of donuts would be best, but one would suffice as well; be sure to take a bite out of each, that way none are left completely whole. What to Say: I am incomplete without you. You donut understand how much you mean to me. What You’ll Need: Sugar Packets What to Do: Use them to spell out the following: “It would be really sweet if you let me take you out sometime.” Here are an additional 14 ways to show your interest and spark theirs this February 14th. Set something on fire and tell them that that is how they make you feel inside. Sweep them off their feet by attacking their shoes with a broom. Hire a mime to do the talking for you. Train a pigeon to fly into their window in the morning, that way they don’t miss their 8 a.m. class after snoozing their alarm. Offer to pay their tuition. Take them to class by stealing a Rutgers bus when the driver decides to leave the vehicle for 12 years at the student center stop. Use toothpaste to draw a heart on their mirror, but be sure to leave it
Emojis speak louder than words, so use them when writing flirty texts to that special someone. PHOTO ILLUSTRATION BY EDWIN GANO / STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER
— that way it stays forever. Cover their bed in flowers. Offer to do laundry when they die and leave plant stains. Ask if they’d like to help you plan a robbery, over dinner of course. Attach a love poem to a burrito. Tell them that you can’t breathe without them. Stop breathing. Surprise them with a hug that
doesn’t end. No, seriously. Don’t let go. Give them a calendar with a marker. Have them circle all the days that they’re free that month to hang out. Confess that you have fallen for them. Then, fall on them. Hold a dollar bill to their face and ask if they, too, are single.
Pendulum Poll: RU Responds / Photos by Edwin Gano
Q : How did you meet your significant other? A. High school B. Online C. Party D. In Class E. Blind date F. Other
Emma Haggerty, SAS ‘16 “We had met at a party and he kind of stared at me from afar. I was like, ‘hey how’s it going?’ So, there’s a tattoo shop on Easton Ave called Revolver Tattoo and he asked for my number because he knew I wanted to go. So we met there and hung out and talked.”
Ashvini Thomas, SAS ‘17 “We knew each other since birth.”
A. 19% Armani Meza, SEBS ‘16 “Through Instagram.”
F. 38%
C. 19%
E.
0%
D.
5%
B. 19%
The results of an informal poll by The Daily Targum of randomly selected students:
This Week’s Pendulum Question has been brought to you By:
Florencia Sayavedra, SAS ‘15
“It was interesting. My dad was friends with his mom and they visited my family and I met him through my family and that’s how we became friends.”
Pendulum is an online poll to explore the opinions of the Rutgers community. View online at dailytargum.com.
Megane Goulet, RBS ‘18 “I met him here in college. We had mutual friends and we met at parties. We went to dinner at Henry’s Diner and he asked me out. He likes Adventure Time and was like ‘every Finn needs a Flame Princess’ and he pulled out a Ring Pop out his pocket.”
February 12, 2015
Valentines Day Edition Page 7
Make them want to put-a-ring on it with chic DIY nails NATALIE LIN CONTRIBUTING WRITER
This Valentine’s Day, channel the holiday spirit and wear your heart on your nails instead of your sleeve. Fabulous nails are in style all year ‘round, so don’t settle for your average French manicure. This cute nail idea will put you in the mood to impress that special someone, while trying something a little different! We’ve fallen head over heels for this simple, trendy, easy design for DIY “Heart Monitor” nails.
WHAT YOU’LL NEED:
Red nail polish White nail polish (or a nail art pen!) Thin brush, toothpick, or precision tool (for designs) Clear top coat Cotton balls/q-tips Nail polish remover Reference picture of a heart monitor
STEP 1:
Those looking to have festive, color-appropriate themed nails this Valentine’s day can try an in-season heart monitor style that is sure to make your date’s heart skip a beat at first glance. NAAZ MODAN keep all the designs even, so the heart monitor will look connected when you put your nails together. Draw one line at a time, slowly, to prevent shaky lines. Skip one nail for the accent –– most commonly the middle or the ring finger. For the accent, draw a medium-sized heart in the middle of your nail, and fill it in completely. Let your designs dry.
Make sure your nails are clean and dry. Try to push back your cuticles and file your nails to remove any sharp edges. When they’re ready, paint your nails with two coats of red nail color. This style will work with any shade of red –– whether you prefer a deep, autumnal color or a bright, “This Valentine’s Day, attention-grabbing one. Let wear your heart on your dry for 5 minutes. nails instead of on your
STEP 3:
After your designs are completely dry, finish with top coat STEP 2: sleeve.” to preserve the In this step, design and give we will create your nails a nice the “heartbeat” of the design. This design shine. Let dry. Feel free to perinvolves detailed lines, so find sonalize your nail designs and a friend with a steady hand and express yourself with glitter, alter make use of your precision tool the colors, or even add x’s and o’s. or nail pen. Looking at a picture Now, Instagram and tweet your of a heart monitor, there is a DIY design with the hashtag #RUdistinctive zig-zag pattern that LOVING and tag @DailyTargum. represents each heartbeat. On For more stories on arts and each nail except the thumb, recreate that zig-zag pattern. Start entertainment, food and lifestyle off with a straight line, carefully check out targuminsidebeat.com. outline a small zig-zag, connect it to a larger zig-zag, draw another small zig-zag and end with a straight line. One nail should look like one “heartbeat.” Try to