NOVEMBER 28, 2012
an advertising special edition of The Daily Texan
LONGHORN LIFE
Page 2
Wednesday, November 28, 2012
LONGHORN
Editor’s Note The weather may not feel like winter yet — but let’s be honest, when does it ever? Regardless, the holidays are here! And with only eight days left of school and 28 days until Christmas, there’s not a lot of time to get the necessary planning done. Luckily we’ve made an issue that will remedy your biggest holiday woes. Now you may still be full from Thanksgiving, but trust me,
that was just a practice round! We have included great recipes for a fall-tastic turkey burger and pumpkin brownie on page 10. On a diet? Check out an interview with professor Lydia Steinman on page 11 for a breakdown of what holiday dishes should be avoided. And with finals looming overhead, perhaps finding the perfect (and inexpensive) gifts for your
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friends and family will help lift your spirits (page 8). One shopping trip never hurt, right? In addition to giving presents, the holidays are also a great time to give back to the community. Several campus groups have begun organizing toy, clothes and food drives for local families in need (page 16). If you plan on going home for the holiday, you might want to consider looking
longhornlifeonline.com
for volunteer opportunities at a local soup kitchen or with a caroling group. As Buddy the Elf says, “the best way to spread Christmas cheer is singing loud for all to hear.” However, if you can’t make it home for the holidays, don’t worry. There’s plenty to keep you busy. In addition to the return of Austin’s popular Trail of Lights (page 13), we’ve compiled a list of events, from
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a New Year’s 5K to neighborhood light shows on page 14. Happy holidays!
Emily Morgan
Special editions editor
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contents pg
These are the moments you’ll want to remember. Let us help.
order your Cactus yearbook today at www.CactusYearbook.com
and hook ‘em Horns!
05 pg 07 pg 08 pg 09 pg 10 pg 13 pg 16
Special Editions Editor Emily Morgan Assistant Special Editions Editor Greer Gaddie Copy Editor Alison Killian Designers Felimon Hernandez, Bailey Sullivan, & Daniel Hublein Writers Shantanu Banerjee, Jeana Bertoldi, Channing Holman, Ali Killian, Paloma Lenz, Nathalie Lumang, Mira Milla, Katie Noriega, Megan Smith, Sara Tapfer, Alex Vickery Photographers Katrina Funtanilla, Courtney James, Chelsea Jackson, Joyce Isleta, Alejandro Silveyra, Trisha Seelig, Monica Zhang Cover Design Daniel Hublein
Feature
Hark! Where are the bells?
Style Notes
‘tis the season to be tacky
Making cents Holiday gift giving guide
Feature Cultural holiday traditions
Good eats ‘tis the season for feasting Fall treats
Director Jalah Goette Advertising Adviser CJ Salgado Campus & National Sales Rep Joan Bowerman Broadcast & Events Manager Carter Goss Student Manager Morgan Haenchen Student Assistant Manager Ted Moreland Student Account Executives Hunter Chitwood, Zach Congdon, Jake Dworkis, Ivan Meza, Rohan Needel, Trevor Nelson, Diego Palmas, Paola Reyes, Ted Sniderman, Stephanie Vajda Student Lead Generators Gabby Garza, Jennifer Howton Student Classifieds Clerk Nick Cremona Event Coordinator Lindsey Hollingsworth Special Editions & Production Coordinator Abby Johnston Senior Graphic Designer Felimon Hernandez Student Graphic Designers Jacqui Bontke, Sara Gonzalez, Daniel Hublein, Bailey Sullivan
Explore Illuminating Austin: Trail of Lights returns
Impact Longhorns give back
Longhorn Life is an advertising special edition of The Daily Texan produced by students in Texas Student Media’s special editions office. Reach us at specialeditions@texasstudentmedia.com. Copyright 2011 Texas Student Media. All articles, photographs and graphics are the property of Texas Student Media and may not be reproduced or republished in part or in whole without written permission. CONTACT TSM: We are located in the Hearst Student Media building (HSM). For advertising, call 512-471-1865.
Wednesday, November 28, 2012
Spotlight LOVE THAT STYLE!
Page 3
LONGHORN LIFE
Showcasing students around campus by Shantanu Banerjee photos by Trisha Seelig
CHATTER
Leanna Chia
Zavier Wingham
Eric Dawson
English and history sophomore
intenational relations and global studies junior
biology sophomore
With fashion inspiration from the Sartorialist blog and her unending aversion to the cold, Chia’s bright outfit is perfect for the on-again-offagain fall Texas weather.
From his printed sweater to his combat boots, Wingham makes sure his looks reveal his inner vogue. “Fashion comes from the idea you get when you see a certain fabric, not the label.”
Style pet peeve: Crocs and mouth grills Wearing: Anthropologie skirt, Madewell cardigan, shirt from Buffalo Exchange, boots by Jeffrey Campbell and a hand knitted infinity scarf.
“
Catching up with all the friends and family you lose track of while you’re busy with school. The food is always spectacular, the stories are usually amusing and the sweaters get uglier every year.
”
Style pet peeve: Ugg boots with Nike shorts Wearing: Forever 21 sweater, studded shirt, skinny jeans and necklace; thrift boots.
WHAT’S IN YOUR BAG? Amber Garza biology sophomore
Emily Snyder geography freshman
“
I love the change in the weather - finally. Also getting together with friends and family on New Year’s Eve, my favorite holiday.
”
Preparedness is never an issue for Garza; her “Mary Poppins” bag has everything a busy pre-vet student might need, from Ibuprofen to a calculator. In addition to schoolwork, Garza has essentials for a busy holiday social season. With party invitations, a mirror and some lip gloss, she won’t have any problems getting ready at a minute’s notice.
Diptoroop Mukherjee advertising senior
“
The Trail of Lights. The trail is a great place to go with friends and enjoy the beautiful lights along with some delicious snacks such as fried snickers, freshly made kettle corn and hot chocolate.
”
What’s your favorite thing about the holidays?
LONGHORN LIFE
Page 4
Sun.
Mon.
Tue.
Wednesday, November 28, 2012
Wed.
Thur.
Fri.
Sat. 12/1
DECEMBER
David Bazan 10 p.m. @ Parish
12/2
12/3
12/4
12/5
12/6
12/7
12/8
Joe Buck
Christy Hays and Her Sunday Best
Of Montreal
The Mountain Goats
Other Lovers
Little Lo
Oh No Oh My
12/9
12/10
12/11
12/12
12/13
12/14
12/15
Charlie Brown Christmas
Janis Ian
Bomb the Music Industry!
Bloc Party
Eli Young Band
Foxy Dangerous
Bryan Adams
3 p.m. & 5:30 p.m. @ Parish
7 p.m. @ One World Theater
12/16
12/17
12/18
12/19
12/20
12/21
12/22
Silversun Pickups
Kinky
Marina and the Diamonds
The Story so Far
These Mad Dogs of Glory
Cederic Burnside Project
The Golden Boys
10 p.m. @ Emo’s East
8 p.m. @ Hole in the Wall
6:30 p.m. @ Mohawk
9 p.m. @ Mohawk (inside)
8 p.m. @ Stubb’s (inside)
10 p.m. @ Emo’s East
12/23
12/24
12/25
Moneywell Spunt
Heybale!
Christmas Day
TBA @ Hole in the Wall
10 p.m. @ Continental Club
10 p.m. @ Emo’s East
10 p.m. @ Emo’s East
TBA @ Red 7
9 p.m. @ Mohawk (inside)
8:30 p.m. @ Emo’s East
8:30 p.m. @ Lamberts
EVENT CALENDAR
9 p.m. @ Beerland
9:30 p.m. @ Lamberts
9 p.m. @ Frank
8 p.m. @ Antone’s
TBA @ Swan Dive
8 p.m. @ Moody Theater
TBA @ Beerland
CAMPUS EVENTS
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Find what you like on sale while you compare, locate nearby stores or shop online. Then, scan barcodes and tags for information about things you're interested in. Add these to your shopping list or wish list. Find coupons and rebates and share with your friends! It’s a shopping tool that connects you with your favorite products and services, as it learns and evolves with you. LEARN MORE AT
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11/28
Bevonomics 103 on managing student loans, 4 to 5 p.m., BUR 220
11/29
The Bourne Legacy (Blockbuster Film Series), 6 and 9 p.m., UNB 2.228
11/2912/1
The Texas Union’s 32nd Annual Madrigal Dinner, a Renaissance- style dinner comedy, 6:30 p.m., UNB 3.202
12/04
UT Orchestra performs with cellist Jun Seo, 7:30 to 9:30 p.m., MRH Bates Recital Hall 3.838
OFF-CAMPUS EVENTS 11/29
Texas Beer 5K Run, includes free beer tasting, 7:30 p.m., Texas Running Company
11/30
Laugh, Dammit!, a live comedy game show, 10 p.m. to midnight, New Movement Theater
12/03
Blue Genie Art Bazaar, handmade artwork and jewelry from local artists, 10 a.m. to 10 p.m., Marchesa Hall & Theater
12/04
Austin Watch Party: Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show, 7 p.m., Abel’s on the Lake
STUDENT ORG EVENTS 11/28
Student Events Center Music and Entertainment Committee presents Jazz on the Patio, 7:30 p.m., Texas Union East patio
Wednesday, November 28, 2012
Longhorn Life
Page 5
Hark! Where are the bells?
The Tower’s carillon falls silent this holiday season Construction will leave the iconic Kniker Carillon in the Tower silent this holiday season, a bittersweet experience for members of the Guild of Student Carillonneurs. Formed in April 2010, the group currently consists of nine UT students who aim to keep the art of the carillon alive, according to the guild’s s t u d e n t advis or, A u s t i n Ferguson. The guild typically performs as a group every Thursday from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. in the Tower while Ferguson, a sophomore music theory major, reserves Tuesdays from 1 to 2 p.m. for his own performances. Each semester they perform at least one big concert, holiday songs in the fall and a pre-finals concert in the spring, but Ferguson hopes to increase the frequency of these performances to two or three each semester. Sadly, UT students will have to wait until spring to enjoy the Tower’s chimes again. According to Ferguson, the university is financing a project to update the aging carillon. The first of the 56 bells were installed in 1936. Ferguson has a hopeful outlook for the construction. “I’m really excited. Once the rebuild on [the carillon] is done and we’ve got everything re-situated, it’s going to play like an entirely new
by Ali Killian photos by Monica Zhang
instrument,” he said. Although holiday music is among Ferguson’s favorite to play, the construction halts the guild’s performances until the projected construction completion date, Jan. 31 of next year. To make up for lost time, Ferguson hopes to play a “Christmas in March”
Tower. If you have a specific song you’d like to hear, you can email requests to the guild or take the plunge and learn to play yourself. To join, you must be able to read music and have at least two years left at the university. Students who are interested in joining can email the guild to set up an audition for the spring semester. “When I saw the flyer for - Matt Przekota the student carillonneur guild here, I was like concert; the only difficulty ‘I’ve got to go out!” said is how long the guild will senior oboe studies and have to prepare. “It’s not voice major Matt Przekota. too long after Christmas, “You get to say that you but I want us to be able to play a building. It’s like, practice before we go up ‘What’s the carillon?’ ‘Oh, you know the Tower? I play and play,” Ferguson said. Because almost none that.’” Owing to the construction of the members have played a carillon prior to — and the subsequent joining the organization, absence of the bell chimes the guild uses a teacher- this winter — the carillon student model to learn will come back in the songs. Veteran members spring sounding brand give lessons once a week to new, and the Guild of the new carillonneurs and Student Carillonneurs will assist in song selection and be ready to get back in action. arrangement. Each person has a different process for For more information arranging songs for the visit the Guild of Student carillon, whether it’s Carillonneurs’ website www.texascarillon. finding the music on the at Internet or simply playing com or email them at by ear. The guild is able to texascarillon@gmail. play almost any song on com the bells that does not rely primarily on lyrics, which unfortunately means we won’t get to hop across campus while “Gangnam Style” chimes from the
“You get to say you play a building. It’s like, ‘What’s the carillon?’ ‘Oh, you know the Tower? I play that.’”
Guild of Student Carillonneurs members Austin Ferguson and Matt Przekota chat between practicing songs. Although the bells will be silent this winter, the guild looks forward to next spring.
Austin Ferguson translates sheet music into the bell tolls that students hear between classes. Each of the carillonneurs has an assigned time they perform each week.
LONGHORN LIFE
Page 6
Style Notes
HOLIDAY STYLE
CLASSY COMFORT: A FAMILY EVENT For a celebration with relatives, comfort and class are key; the last things you want to be doing while chatting with Aunt Mildred are adjusting your top and trying to ignore your aching feet. Throw on some dark trouser jeans — they’ll be comfortable but still look nice — and a jewel-toned blouse. Add some festive sparkle with earrings and a small diamond or cubic zirconia necklace and metallic flats to finish off the look for a pleasant night with relatives.
Rose split-sleeve peplum blouse, $98, whitehouseblackmarket.com; Raven Denim Mackenzie trouser bootcut jeans, $39, tobi.com; Boutique 9 ‘Anahi’ flat shoes, $64, barefoottess.com; Nordstrom pendant necklace, $27, nordstrom.com; MANGO wings crystals earrings, $20, mango.com
Wednesday, November 28, 2012
Keeping the 40 Acres trendy The holidays are a time for celebration — bringing together friends and family to share gifts and laughs. However, with celebration comes a busy schedule, and deciding what to wear to all the festivities can be a hassle. Not only that, but it can also be challenging to put together ensembles that look seasonal but not tacky. Check out this style guide to help make dressing for the holiday season a little less stressful and a lot more fun. by Jeana Bertoldi
GLITTERING IN GOLD: A SEMI-FORMAL PARTY For a semi-formal holiday party, go for one or two fun, festive pieces, and keep the rest of your accessories simple. Begin with a classy but cute centerpiece, like a sparkly gold dress. Instead of going with basic black heels, try some bold red peep-toe pumps, which will make the outfit both more stylish and more festive. Because these elements already call for attention, keep your accessories relatively basic. Echo the sparkle of the dress with small earrings, slide on a few gold rings and carry a classic black clutch.You’ll be ready to walk into the party with confidence and style.
CHRISTMAS CASUAL It can be a little tricky to dress low-key but still look festive. If you’re attending a casual get-together with friends, try utilizing some fun accessories. After putting on simple skinny jeans and a loose-fitting top in a holiday-appropriate color, add star-shaped stud earrings, sparkly flats and a bright cocktail ring. This is the perfect opportunity to play with color: a red ring with a green top suggests holiday spirit without looking too obvious. A neutral-colored bag with a slight metallic sheen will pull together the look without making it over-the-top. Small touches will make this casual look both holiday- and event-appropriate.
NEW YEAR SPARKLES Any New Year’s celebration is a good excuse for sparkle. A silver, glittery skirt pairs well with a fashion-forward black embellished top. Up the festive factor even more with an eye-catching clutch in a complementary color — normally a sparkly skirt and a sparkly bag might be too much, but New Year’s is a good opportunity to take risks. Polish off the outfit with a stack of silver bracelets and dangly earrings. This look would pair with pumps easily, but why not go for some less-expected ankle boots instead? Adding stylish and fashionable elements will prevent the sparkle from appearing tacky.
Sequin mesh dress, $60, delias.com; rsvp Cailyn pumps, $99, zappos.com; black baroque print clutch, $24, newlook.com; pearl stackable gold rings, $24, eternalsparkles.com; sparkling bead earrings, $3.80, forever21.com
American Vintage top, $57, welikefashion.com; H&M skinny low jeans, $16, hm.com; Miss Kg luxe ballet flats, $79, republic.co.uk; bone zip crossbody purse, $12, dorothyperkins.com; Shanna’s large red oval natural stone fashion ring, $28, fantasyjewelrybox.com; Pilgrim women’s gold star stud earrings, $7.13, psyche.co.uk
Top Shop gem collar peplum top, $60, us.topshop. com; rsvp Vallerie skirt, $53, zappos.com; Manhattan romance heels, $58, modcloth.com; Lorraine envelope clutch in fuchsia, $34.90, shopakira.com; John Lewis multilayer Diamanté sparkle bracelet, $29, johnlewis. com; Cath Kidston antique silver crystal sparkle drop earrings, $32, asos.com
LONGHORN LIFE
Wednesday, November 28, 2012
‘tis
the season to be
Page 7
TACKY by Sara Tapfer photos by Monica Zhang
With the holidays right around the corner, it’s officially time to break out the tacky Christmas gear. Tacky sweater parties are plentiful the days leading up to winter break, and now is the time to start the search for the perfect sweater. And the tackier the better! Throughout the year Urban Outfitters has a section called Urban Renewal, which features vintage and refurbished fashion. While the clothes are typically overpriced, their holiday sweater collection is eclectic and reasonably priced. Most of them cost around $25 and are guaranteed to stand out among a sea of tacky sweaters.
• Individual leases • 6 locations 2-4 blocks from campus • Cable and internet included • 24 hour fitness facility
Writer Sara Tapfer models some tacky (but adorable!) sweaters from the Urban Renewal line at Urban Outfitters. If $25 seems like too much to spend on tacky fare, head to a craft store to imitate these sweaters.
Other stores with great selections are Goodwill, Cream Vintage and Buffalo Exchange. These stores are cheap and have genuinely tacky sweaters. Straight from the 80s and 90s, these sweaters are complete with iron-on patches, bears in Santa hats carrying presents, sequins and much more. If these aren’t tacky enough for your taste, try talking to older relatives to see if they have any, or look at your local flea market. It is even acceptable to buy sweaters and then add personal touches such as bows, tinsel, pipe cleaners and bells. Any local craft store will have the supplies you need. Although rare, there have also been a few sightings of tacky Hanukkah sweaters at Goodwill. Complete with menorahs, dreidels and Stars of David, these sweaters ensure no one will feel left out around the holidays. Most importantly don’t forget to memorialize your holiday spirit by having an awkward family photo shoot. Get all of your friends together — in your tacky garb, of course — and take pictures by the tree, with your stockings or lined up on the stairs. Be creative with the pictures you take. Find random locations, be cheesy and most of all have fun — this is the season to be jolly!
Celebs do it too!
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Hillary Clinton
Snoop Lion
Matt Damon
Wonder if Hill and Bill had matching tacky duds.
Frosty ain’t the only one smoking a pipe this season.
Thumbs up if you’re tacky and proud of it!
www.quartersoncampus.com 512-531-0123
LONGHORN LIFE
Page 8
Making cents Holiday gift giving guide
Wednesday, November 28, 2012
Doing more for less by Sara Tapfer
Trying to figure out what to buy friends and family for the holidays is hard enough, but after factoring in the typical college student’s budget it becomes much more difficult. Fortunately, with a little time spent sorting through merchandise at local thrift stores or even in the sale section of popular stores the perfect — and affordable — gifts are within reach. Longhorn Life has compiled a list of great gifts, for everyone on your list, to help alleviate this year’s holiday shopping stress.
A GUIDE
SHOPAHOLICS When searching for gifts for these ever-trendy ladies, stores like Urban Outfitters are great options. Everything at Urban is modeled after current trends, making it a great (sometimes) inexpensive yet fashion forward resource. Instead of paying $327 for a Kate Spade bag, you can buy a similar bag from Urban Outfitters for $49, sunglasses for $10 and a necklace for $29. Wrapping paper does not have to be expensive either. Simply buying a fashion magazine such as Vogue or Marie Claire and cutting out the pages to use as wrapping paper is a cheap way to personalize the gift.
HIPSTERS With the slogan “Keep Austin Weird,” there is no denying the city is full of hipsters. One of the biggest aspects of this culture is photography. Unfortunately a professional-grade Canon can cost over $700. For the recently-proclaimed hipster, Pottery Barn Teen sells an electric blue Lomography brand fisheye camera for only $55. Wide-angle, circular shots are one of the many defining characteristics of true hipsterdom, this gift is hit.
FOODIES Everyone has an obsession with food around the holidays, so what better way to their heart than with some delectable seasonal treats? The only issue: gift cards can seem impersonal and can get expensive depending on the restaurant. A great wallet-friendly alternative is to find a recipe on Pinterest and wrap the goodies in colorful cellophane. Pair these with a cute utensil from Target like the Nordic Ware Dinosaur Muffin Plaque for $28.09. Anyone on your list is sure to enjoy this thoughtful gift.
MUSIC AFICIONADOS Considering how influential music is to the city of Austin, there is a good chance you have a music fanatic friend in need of a great gift this holiday season. Thrift stores are an excellent option. Cream Vintage off the Drag has a plethora of old records for sale from $2 to $10. These are great for decorating bare walls or playing on a turntable. If you’re looking to purchase a record player, keep in mind that vintage ones can cost upward of $250. Best Buy offers newer versions for just over $79.
Longhorn Life
Wednesday, November 28, 2012
Page 9
This time of year brings various cultural celebrations filled with food, family and faith. Discover how fellow Longhorns celebrate during the holiday season. | by Emily Morgan and Channing Holman |
Christmas | December 25, 2012
Diwali | November 13, 2012
Christmas is one of the largest celebrated holidays in the nation. This Christian holiday commemorates the birth of Jesus Christ to the Virgin Mary. According to the Old Testament, Jesus was born in a stable in the town of Bethlehem and received gifts of gold, frankincense and myrrh from “three kings” coming to welcome the new king of the Jews. It has also become a widely celebrated cultural holiday for many, including individuals of other religions.
Diwali is one of the most important holidays for practicing Hindus. This five-day festival is the celebration many events, including of the return of Rama, a deity of their God Vishnu, after being exiled to the jungle for 14 years.
Jasymne Alexander
English and African diaspora studies senior
Brandon Major
Swati Verma
social work senior
plan II biology senior
Age: 23
Age: 21
Religious background: Agnosticism
Religious background: Hinduism
Age: 22 Religious background: nondenominational Christian
“
We go to church where there is usually some type of special program and then have dinner afterward. It gives me a chance to enjoy and appreciate the sacrifices God has made for his children and allows me to spend time with extended family.
”
“
My family and I have the same Christmas traditions as everyone else, just minus the celebration of Jesus’ birth and going to church. My favorite part is waking up early to look at the Christmas tree and waiting for everyone else to get up. It’s really the only time of year when I’m eager to wake up early.
”
“
Diwali is like the equivalent to the Western New Year’s. Families get together to celebrate and further strengthen their ties to each other and God. Typically candles are lit and all of the lights are left on to make the home more inviting for Lord Rama. Many sweets are eaten and gifts are exchanged during a fireworks show.
”
Eid ul-Adha | October 26, 2012
Hanukkah | December 8 to 16, 2012
Eid-ul-Adha is known as the day of sacrifice, in which Muslims sacrifice animals to God out of gratitude. This offering is meant to symbolize Islamic prophet Abraham’s willingness to sacrifice his first-born son Ishmael.
Hanukkah celebrates the Jewish defeat of the invading Greek army in second century B.C., which sought to destroy the Holy Temple in Jerusalem. According to popular belief, after the battle there was only enough oil for the menorah to burn for one day. Miraculously it lasted for eight days, further signifying this modern-day commemoration.
Midhat Patel
biology honors senior
Jennifer Tribble
Aaron Liener
Age: 20
Age: 22
Religious background: reform Judaism
Religious background: modern orthodox Judaism
chemistry and microbiology senior
Hebrew language and literature junior
Age: 20 Religious background: Islam
“
The day usually starts with a morning prayer. Then, throughout the day families eat, go from house to house and then eat some more. Traditionally, elder family members and friends give younger members money, termed Eidi, in honor of the celebration.
”
“
Traditionally, most families make latkes [fried potato pancakes]. Some also play a game called dreidel, where you spin a dreidel and receive prizes based on the side it lands on. Gifts are also given each night as a new candle on the menorah is lit.
”
“
To share our joy, each night we light our menorah and place it in our windowsill. As they are lit, special holiday songs are recited to commemorate this victory. Special holiday treats are also enjoyed, including latkes, sufganiyot [jelly donuts] and gelt [chocolate coins].
”
Page 10
Wednesday, November 28, 2012
LONGHORN LIFE
Good Eats
Embrace your inner foodie
‘tis the season for feasting The air is filled with joy and the holiday spirit, but any foodie knows the best part of the season is the tantalizing aromas of seasonal comfort foods. Whether you’re trying to bring in a little slice of home or you just can’t wait for December 25, Onion Creek Grille has you covered. Its yummy buffet, designed with the holidays in mind, will expand your waistline but not your wallet. This Omni Hotel restaurant offers home-cooked specialties all year long, but for chef Stephen Stilfka this time of year is particularly exciting. “I love being around my family for the holidays, but the satisfaction I get from cooking for other families is fun for me,” Stilfka said. Onion Creek Grille is typically favored for its extensive pasta bar; however Stilfka and his team try to add a festive twist in the winter months, evolving the menu each year based on crowd favorites. Because of their ongoing dedication to customer satisfaction, the holiday buffet has become increasingly popular, with holiday reservations sometimes filling up a year in advance. “We get great reactions via social media, and we’re highly rated on Trip Advisor. It’s things like that we look for to become better,” said director of sales and marketing Tim Chegin. “A lot of local businesses take vacations for the holidays, but we offer in-home, traditional foods.”
photo and story by Channing Holman
Keeping the costs low has also helped encourage a strong customer base. At just $24 per adult and $12 for kids ages 5 to 13, this all-you-can-eat feast is still perfect for a tight budget. A few of the restaurant’s holiday items include a black pepper crusted bone-in rib-eye, dried-fruit stuffed airline chicken breast and a fall mixed green salad.
Trudy’s might be closed, but there are still plenty of restaurants open Christmas eve and day for students staying in Austin. If your parents came to town: TRIO Christmas day buffet • Menu highlights: Gulf ceviche, made-toorder omlettes, Southern squash and kale Driskill Hotel Christmas brunch • Menu highlights: Eggs benedict, lobster bisque, pumpkin pie risotto Affordable splurges: Fogo de Chao • Menu highlights: Salad and side bar, 15 different cuts of meat Central Market take-home menu • Menu highlights: Tamales, homestyle macaroni and cheese, cauliflower gratin • *Last day to order is Dec. 22
One of Onion Creek Grille’s holiday offerings - a 16-ounce Angus beef rib-eye, boursin mashed Yukon gold potatoes and asparagus.
MOM’S CLASSIC TURKEY BURGER Makes six patties
Taste of fall by Katie Noriega Photo by Trisha Seelig With fall upon us, cravings for baked apples, roasted turkey and pumpkin pies are bound to take over. While some are dreaming of sugar plums, at Longhorn Life we’re dreaming of turkey and brownies. A popular recipe shared at my home during the holidays is for my mother’s classic turkey burger. Not only will it warm your taste buds, but it’s an easy, quick and relatively cheap meal to make – perfect for any student.
Ingredients: — 2 tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil — 1 small onion, finely chopped — 1 celery stalk, minced — 1 tbsp. fresh thyme, chopped — 1 1/2 tsp. fresh sage, chopped — 1/2 tsp. salt —1/2 tsp. freshly ground pepper — 1/4 cup dried cranberries, finely chopped —1 pound 93 percent lean ground turkey
Directions: 1. Pat the ground turkey into six patties. Add salt and pepper for flavor. 2. Heat oil in pan and sauté the onions, thyme, sage, cranberries and celery until browned. 3. Add the turkey patties into the same pan and sauté until they have a brown to dark brown color, approximately 30 minutes. 4. Serve in a bun.
For more holiday recipes check out our Holiday Gobbles Pinterest board! pinterest.com/ txlonghornlife
PUMPKIN BROWNIE Source: Pinterest Makes 1 pan of brownies Ingredients: — 1 box of brownie mix — 2 eggs — 3 red apples, sliced — 1/3 cup of oil — 1 can pumpkin puree
Directions: 1. Heat the oven to 350° F. 2. Mix together brownie mix, eggs, oil and pumpkin puree until smooth. 3. Transfer the mixture to a greased pan and bake in the oven for approximately 30 minutes.
Wednesday, November 28, 2012
Page 11
Longhorn Life
The secret to holiday eating
Senior lecturer Lydia Steinman gives us the skinny We’ve crossed the key to control. Be- aware you become threshold to the sea- ing aware of what you of how full you are or son of gluttony — a eat will help you stop when you’re satisfied,” time of year when yourself from over Steinman said. If you’re looking for a overindulgence runs indulging. In other scientific explanation words, if you’re hopamok. As far as dieting is concerned, holiday ing to have your fill for why you feel the eating can prove di- of every dish during urge to fill your stomsastrous. Upon win- holiday dinners, do so ach to the brim with traditional holiday ter’s arrival, usually responsibly. “Portion sizes are re- dishes, there isn’t one. you’ve either made a T h e promise comto watch “We’re really influenced by our senses binaw h a t and, even though physiologically we’re tion of you eat not hungry, [when] we see and smell being to avoid that piece of pie, we can anticipate s u r wasting rounda n o t h - what it’s going to taste like, so we ed by er New take it.” loved Ye a r ’s resolu- Lydia Steinman o n e s tion or nutritional science senior lecturer a n d s e n you’ve sory overload from all ally, really important. accepted the fact that your New Year’s Eve You can take half of the food makes eating conversaoutfit might need an what you normally between would and then have tions and during footelastic waistband. Whatever the case, the same food for din- ball games a no-brainer. Lydia C. Steinman, ner,” she said. “Hunger is a physiIf portion control distinguished senior lecturer and under- sounds unreasonable, ological need to eat, graduate instructional don’t fret; Steinman and appetite is a psyadministrator for the offers another tip for chological desire to Department of Nutri- maintaining that tiny eat,” Steinman said. tional Sciences, ad- shred of dignity as far “Holidays like Thanksvises students and fac- as food is concerned: giving have these wonderful meals with ulty alike not to worry try eating slowly. “Our brains tell us all these things you about overeating durwhen we’re full, and normally don’t eat. ing the holidays. “It’s not a horrible a lot of the time we You come together thing to overeat. It’s don’t pay attention to with your family, and really common,” them. But, if you do the whole purpose is Steinman explained. pay attention, it takes to eat. We’re really in“It’s all a matter of bal- about 20 minutes af- fluenced by our senster you start eating es and, even though ance.” Steinman stresses [to get full]. The slow- physiologically we’re portion size as the er you eat, the more not hungry, [when]
by Paloma Lenz
Eat this, not that!
Check out what comes to Steinman’s mind when she hears the names of traditional holiday dishes and what diet-friendly alternatives she suggests: Gravy: “Gravy is very caloric because it’s made with fat drippings from the turkey and milk,” Steinman said.
Mashed potatoes: Though fluffy mashed potatoes are her favorite, Steinman suggests cutting down the amount of butter and switching to low-fat milk to save yourself some guilt.
photo by Courtney James we see and smell that piece of pie, we can anticipate what it’s going to taste like, so we take it.” So if you thought you did pretty well surviving the Thanksgiving dinner of champions, keep up the good work. If you’re not so sure you can handle Grandma stuffing you with, well, more stuffing when you return for winter break, then consider some of the
alternatives Steinman offers. Otherwise, don’t feel the need to deprive yourself.
Turkey: To avoid the sugary sauces and fattening gravies needed to offset a dry turkey, Steinman suggests a salt brine. “It really takes in the moisture, and it won’t dry out as much when baked.” Pecan or apple pie: Nuts are a known source of healthy fats and proteins, but too many in one serving can result in a very caloric dessert. Steinman suggests apple.
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LONGHORN LIFE
Wednesday, November 28, 2012
Same hex, same spirit, new game
by Alex Vickery photos by Katrina Funtanilla Texas football took on a whole new meaning this Thanksgiving as UT geared up to play TCU instead of the Aggies. After Longhorns said a victorious goodbye to a 117year rivalry with A&M last fall, many wondered what would become of our Thanksgiving tradition. The Hex Rally began in 1941 as a way to ensure a Longhorn win by putting a hex on our College Station rivals, and has become an annual campus tradition before the big Thanksgiving showdown. This year, the University was determined to keep the tradition alive even with a new opponent on the roster. “We’re really trying to stray away from it being just [about] A&M; it’s a UT tradition at the end of the day, and we want students to remember it’s our tradition to own and not something we give to another team,” said Texas Exes spirits and traditions council chair Erica Flores. This year’s rally preserved the name Hex Rally, and Texas Exes organizers adopted the slogan “Same hex, same spirit, new game.” Ultimately it’s not about what team we face, but it’s about fostering school spirit and supporting our team.
“I hope that everyone will rally behind the idea of continuing the tradition and embracing and keeping it alive, even if it’s for a new team,” said Texas Exes student relations coordinator Kelsey Roberts. Still, some are skeptical about this new direction. Christian Corona, sports editor for The Daily Texan and journalism senior, is concerned about what a new opponent means for traditional Texas rivalries. “You kind of dilute the meaning of a rivalry when you call games between Texas and TCU a rivalry,” said Corona. While Texas has a history of “hexing” schools other than A&M in the past, including TCU, facing the Aggies became an eagerly awaited part of the year for many seniors, including Corona. “The Hex Rally is something special to the rivalry that Texas and Texas A&M had, and to have a rally before a TCU game just doesn’t feel right,” he said. The experience will be much different for incoming freshmen; many have heard about the rivalry but won’t have the chance to witness it. Yet many students are
optimistic and willing to embrace the change. Freshman biology major Jenna Pecot grew up listening to her fellow Longhorn and sister’s accounts of the rivalry. “It’s kind of disappointing that we’re not playing A&M anymore, but I’m really excited to be the first class that gets to play TCU,” she said. Sophomore finance major Audrey George has similar sentiments. “I think it’s really cool that I’m able to experience the last A&M Hex Rally and also the first TCU Hex Rally. I think we’ll miss the tradition with A&M but starting a new one with TCU is going to be so much fun.” As students, athletes, faculty and staff united to light the red candles and put a hex on TCU before the big game, some students felt a different vibe at this year’s rally. Sophomore journalism major Rebecca Salazar said, “It was a little less intense because it’s not the same rivalry. But in the end it’s important to continue traditions. I think the spirit is there, so it doesn’t matter who we play.”
Wednesday, November 28, 2012
LONGHORN LIFE
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Illuminating Austin: Trail of Lights Returns
by Megan Smith photos submitted by Trail of Lights Lights of every shape and color will illuminate Zilker Park this winter with the triumphant return of the Trail of Lights, one of Austin’s most beloved holiday traditions. From Dec. 16 to 23 the trail returns bigger and better after a two-year hiatus. Originally named “Yulefest,” the trail has served as a yearly custom since its start in 1965. However, in 2009 the city fell on hard economic times and the trail was significantly reduced and ultimately eliminated in 2010. “The Austin Trail of Lights is a celebration rich in tradition, shared stories and community,” said Courtney Campbell, social media manager at Forefront Austin, a digital media and marketing company helping organize this year’s event. “It connects us to all that is great about our community, no matter how much we grow and change. Austinites have missed this opportunity [since its elimination] to connect with each other and celebrate our community advancements,” she said. Luckily local businesses and nonprofit organizations
recognized the importance of the event and jumped in to bring the trail back to the city. The RunTex Carrozza Foundation and Forefront Austin are producing the event and “are raising more than $1 million to re-illuminate the trail, keep it a free event and provide economic sustainability for future years,” Campbell said. Powered by H-E-B, the event found corporate backing by businesses such as Dell, Samsung, Seton Healthcare Family and Vista Equity. Thanks to their support, no city funds will have to be used for this year’s event. “Cross-community support from businesses, foundations and individuals make this an event truly for, by and of Austin,” Campbell said. In the past as many as 250,000 people traveled to see this sea of spectacular holiday lights. This year could bring even more visitors, with the trail promising to be bigger than ever. Guests can expect 1.25 miles of every-color lights, Santa’s house and a nonprofit village featuring 23 local area organizations, musicians, carolers and dancers, Campbell said. The event also includes theme nights ranging from
School Spirit Night to Military Appreciation Night. Each young attendee will receive a free book as a part of H-E-B’s Read 3 children’s literacy program, which encourages guardians to read to children three times a week. The program strives to help children develop the skills necessary to succeed in school by providing them with books, according to the its website. The Trail of Lights runs nightly from 6:30 to 10 p.m. Admission is free and open to the public. Hot chocolate, apple cider and great eats from local food trailers will be available for purchase. “Austin is known for throwing parties for the rest of the world,” Campbell said. “This is a party we throw for ourselves. Everyone needs a chance to join in, celebrate the past year and connect for a positive new year.”
LONGHORN LIFE
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Wednesday, November 28, 2012
Calling Austin home for the holidays by Ali Killian
The holiday season is here, and although most don’t want to spend it alone, there’s plenty to do in Austin if you’re not heading home to see family for winter break. The time between semesters gives Longhorns a chance to unleash their holiday spirits and enjoy festivities like these, which are sure to cheer up even the grumpiest of Scrooges.
Neighborhood Christmas Lights Anytime, all around Austin
Looking for a low-key way to indulge in the holiday cheer? Keep it simple by cranking up the holiday tunes and driving around Austin’s neighborhoods to check out the residents’ holiday displays; 37th Street and Project XMas at 1912 Chrystal Shore are both known for their extravagant displays. Alternatively, you can show off your creative side by decorating your own place. Just be careful if you plan to live in the dorms over winter break: the university implements specific and stringent rules regarding the types of decorations residents are allowed to use.
Holiday Sing-Along and Downtown Stroll Free Dec. 1, 6 to 10 p.m. Austin Capitol Building
During the first weekend in December, bring your shower singing voice to the Austin Capitol Building, where you can belt holiday classics at the Downtown Austin Alliance and KUT’s annual Holiday Sing-Along and Downtown Stroll. Starting at 6 p.m. Austinites will gather at the Capitol for old-fashioned caroling followed by the lighting of the Capitol’s tree. Then head down Congress for festive activities hosted by restaurants, shops and museums. College students are always strapped for cash – especially during the holidays – which makes the free Holiday Sing-Along and Downtown Stroll a cost-effective alternative to more expensive winter activities.
Ballet Austin’s The Nutcracker $12 to $72 Dec. 8 to 23, 2 and 7:30 p.m. The Long Center
The Nutcracker ballet is an ultimate holiday classic, and Ballet Austin’s rendition is the longest running production of the show in Texas. The Nutcracker tells the story of a girl named Ciara, whose toy nutcracker comes to life to help her fight the Mouse King and consequently leads her on adventures in the Land of Sweets. Although ballets can be pricey, buying the cheaper seats won’t break your bank, and you’ll be able to take in the dancing snowflakes and other winter imagery in this Christmas Eve tale from the balcony.
Commitment Day 5K
$39, free for those 18 and under with a paid adult Jan. 1, 10 a.m. Butler Park At the start of each new year, many try to live up to their healthy lifestyle resolutions, which is what the Commitment Day 5K aims to help with. Commitment Day is a movement that encourages runners to embrace a healthy lifestyle, and it will happen in more than 30 cities on New Year’s Day. Whether you want to run, walk, jog or crawl, the 5K is about the meaning behind the race, not who finishes first. When choosing your resolutions, you can use the Commitment Day 5K as a starting point for a healthy lifestyle change.
No matter where you’re from, taking part in the city’s many festivities will make Austin feel like home this holiday season.
Free time is money by Shantanu Banerjee
Winter break marks the busiest retail period of the year, so for department stores and corporate chains seasonal positions are in high demand. With increasing retail and service opportunities, Austin is the perfect place to pick up extra holiday cash. On-campus services are an easy way to start the search. UT’s office of financial services maintains a seasonal job bank online through the Hire a Longhorn network. Prospective applicants can create an account and upload a resume for access to a full list of available positions. Hire a Longhorn offers part- and full-time positions throughout Austin, and the database specifies jobs’ responsibilities, start-
ing wages and employee requirements. Although career service centers don’t handle seasonal employment, they offer valuable assistance in creating resumes and cover letters. Students can visit their colleges’ career services center to learn how to make themselves more attractive to potential employers for both holiday work and longterm employment or internships. “I’d been hunting for an over-the-holidays job for weeks and couldn’t find anything. I figured I needed to revamp my resume and rethink how I approach employers, so I went to career services. Go figure — Christmas tree farms didn’t care about my research experience,” said biomedical engi-
neering sophomore Steven LaBelle. When applying to larger chains, using online applications makes the process easier and more convenient. HE-B, Macy’s, Target, Walmart and Costco all offer applications on their websites. On some you can specify that you’re seeking seasonal employment. The result is that once employed, you can be retained for future seasons. Applications that do not result in employment are kept on file for up to six months. “I have a seasonal job with Costco. I love it because it keeps me from getting bored over break, and by the end of the semester I can always use the extra money,” said business sophomore David Yu. “I started working there during the summer,
and I go back during long breaks like this one. Summer is probably the best time to guarantee yourself a seasonal winter job with big retailers.” Submitting your application in-person can also be a viable strategy because it allows for face-to-face interaction. It also shows a degree of motivation; you’re taking the initiative to meet the employer and pursue the job, which contrasts with simply filling out an online application form. “I got hired at a Christmas tree farm. I went to the site and approached the manager to see if they had any openings, and I had the job. But I do think being willing and able to undertake manual labor also had a lot to do with it,” said biology
freshman Saheer Patel. Whether you’re staying in Austin or going home for the holidays, there’s bound to be a business looking for extra help. The important thing to remember is that these spots are limited, so pursue every avenue possible. After submitting an application, don’t be afraid to follow up with a phone call or a visit to the store; it shows how much you want the job and that you’re dedicated. These steps may seem insignificant, but they could be the difference between making good money or sitting on your couch watching “A Christmas Story” on repeat.
Longhorn Life
Wednesday, November 28, 2012
Oldies, not goodies by Alex Vickery
Some of us count down the days until it’s socially acceptable to start blasting Christmas music from our car windows. Even if you’re a fan of the latest Michael Bublé or Justin Bieber holiday albums, you’re most likely listening to versions of traditional Christmastime classics. Many of the songs that pop stars cover today date back to the “good ole’ days,” as Grandpa would say. But upon closer inspection, some of the lines from these songs are cheesy, sexist or downright weird (wait — that song I’ve been singing since I was eight actually says what!). Unfortunately not all oldies are goodies. “I Saw Mommy Kissing Santa Claus” Music & lyrics by Tommie Connor “Oh, what a laugh it would have been, / If Daddy had only seen / Mommy kissing Santa Claus last night!” As if the thought of seeing your mom kissing anyone wouldn’t already give you nightmares, imagine seeing her kiss the jolly, bearded man that leaves presents under your tree. Well apparently the child that tells the tale in “I Saw Mommy Kissing Santa Claus” is not the slightest bit fazed. He sneaks out of bed and watches the scene unfold from the staircase where he sees “mommy tickle Santa Claus/underneath his beard so snowy white.” Infidelity must be pretty comical in this household: the lyrics state it would have been a funny sight for the child’s dad to see his wife kissing Santa Claus. Even a kid that thinks Santa would make a cool dad should know this situation is not something to make light of. The original recording by 13-year-old Jimmy Boyd reached #1 on the Billboard charts when it was released in 1952. “Baby, It’s Cold Outside” Music & Lyrics by Frank Loesser “Put on some records while I pour / The neighbors might think / Baby it’s bad out there / Say, what’s in this drink”
Written in 1944, “Baby, It’s Cold Outside” has been recorded by too many artists to count, becoming a quintessential song for when temperatures drop and snow starts to fall. The duet is a playful tune with a male and female going back and forth, him trying to convince her to stay at his place rather than venture out into the snow, even worrying she may, “[catch] pneumonia and die.” However the man’s intentions are questionable. It’s also debatable whether the woman is reluctant to stay because of what she fears it will do to her reputation or whether alcohol is hindering her ability to simply leave. When she asks, “Say, what’s in this drink?” he avoids the question by assuring her there are no cabs outside, resorting to complimenting her eyes, which are “like starlight now.” He goes on to ask if he can move a little bit closer and tells her, “Baby, don’t hold out.” As the song ends she insists once again that she can’t stay, but the audience is only left wondering whose desires triumphed. “Santa Baby” Written by Joan Javits & Philip Springer “Santa baby, slip a sable under the tree for me / I’ve been an awful good girl” “Santa Baby,” recorded by Eartha Kitt in 1953 and covered by pop superstars like Madonna and Taylor Swift, is a tune that portrays a golddigging woman who teases Santa Claus while asking for expensive gifts. Calling him “cutie” and “honey,” she mischievously asks him to bring her a convertible, a yacht, fancy jewelry and a duplex. This scenario portrays women in a negative light, not only suggesting females use their sex appeal for materialistic gain but also that they are dependent on monetary assistance from men. However what often goes unnoticed is that in the first line, prior to asking for all of these lavish gifts, she asks for a sable. No, a sable is not the name for a tablet or smart phone of the 50s; it’s an animal often found in
Russia harvested for its valuable fur, which is considered to be a luxury item. This woman is begging Santa “baby” to leave a live animal under her tree so she can skin it for money? Someone alert PETA! “Do They Know It’s Christmas?” Written by Bob Geldof & Midge Ure
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Do you want to talk about...
“And the Christmas bells that ring there / Are the clanging chimes of doom / Well, tonight, thank God, it’s them instead of you” It’s 1984 — any song featuring the likes of superstars like Sting, Bono and Duran Duran is sure to get people’s attention, especially those in the first-world who appreciate the all-star ensemble Band Aid serenading them into helping those affected by the Ethiopian famine. Effective as it may be, don’t you think a song with this grave of a message should sound a little bit more like tearjerkers “My Grown Up Christmas List” or “The Christmas Shoes” and not a sing-along pop song? Good intentions, perhaps, but when you’re singing along with Phil Collins it’s easy to overlook the snobby nature of the song, which tells you to thank God that others are suffering instead of you. It may have successfully raised millions for charity in the UK, but co-writer Bob Geldof has admitted the song is dreadful. “I am responsible for two of the worst songs in history. One is ‘Do They Know It’s Christmas?’ and the other ‘We Are The World,’” he remarked. When the song asks you to pray for “the others” and “raise your glass for everyone,” are we being told to sympathetically donate our money or just drink our eggnog and think about how good we have it?
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LONGHORN LIFE
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Wednesday, November 28, 2012
Impact UT
Longhorns give back
Getting involved on campus
Student groups organize to spread holiday cheer every month — the entire stock — for the past three years. “While we need volunteers during the holidays, we also need volunteers after they are over. People are just as hungry on November 14 as they are on January 14,” he said. Hoping to warm the chilly weeks ahead for low-income families, three organizations have joined for the Share the Warmth Clothing Drive and Fundraiser. The event, which is hosted by fraternity Sigma Lamda Beta, sorority Sigma Delta Lamda and Umoja — a women’s empowerment organization — aims to collect 400 articles of gently-used clothing. UT’s Latino fellowship collects canned food for East Austin families in need this holiday season. All materials collected will be donated to local nonprofit While every student’s upcoming schedule may be Manos de Cristo (Hands of crammed with frequent visits to the library and all-nighters, Christ), which provides affordable oral health care and edusome Longhorns are still finding time to donate to local cational development, and hopes to meet basic food and charities. clothing needs for low-income families. Currently men’s Christian organization Latino Fellowship is hosting a pants and children’s clothing are in high demand. However canned food drive throughout November for families in winter clothing, shoes, and belts of all sizes will be readily East Austin. Accounting and biaccepted. lingual education senior Crystal Inmer Cardona, a youth Sepulveda said the cans will be and communities studdistributed in baskets during the ies junior and one of the upcoming holiday season. While event’s organizers, said this is the first time the organizathat student organization has held a canned food drive, tions are able to provide they plan to host another in Dea more sustainable and Inmer Cardona cember. multifaceted impact youth and communities studies junior when they combine ef“Growing up my family received food donations, and we went to forts. pantries to get food. This is just a way for me to give back the “Being at [UT], we are surrounded by people from differsame way I was once helped,” Sepulveda said. ent backgrounds with diverse experiences on a daily basis,” She encouraged all students to consider donating time or Cardona said. “This provides us with resourceful and wellsupplies. “I think we make up excuses that we don’t have connected student leaders. The collective benefit can be utitime, but there are people out there who really don’t have lized to help our community meet the basic needs they so money to provide for their families, and people who need desperately deserve.” our help.” Focusing on children, the Texas Zephyrs hosted its fourth Sepulveda said if any surplus cans are collected, they will annual teddy bear drive benefitting My Healing Place, a be donated to local food banks. nonprofit that provides grief counseling for those who’ve The Capital Area Food Bank serves approximately 48,000 experience the death of a loved one or suffered a trauma. people every week. Approximately 20,000 of them are chil- The service sorority also collected art supplies and mondren, according to John Turner, senior director of marketing etary donations. and branding. “We work to give the children teddy bears so they can have The foodbank has served about 2 million pounds of food a nice little companion over the holidays,” said human biol-
by Maria Rivera photos by Joyce Isleta
ogy junior Brittany Golden. “These bears are there to help them through the grieving process.” Students for Equity and Diversity are also hosting a Coats of Love drive benefitting the Multicultural Refugee Coalition until Dec. 14. The Coalition is dedicated to helping support Austin-area refugees by providing long-term educational and community support networks. SED aims to collect coats and other winter clothing for 100 families. Joshua Tang, a history senior and co-director of operations for SED, said some of his motivation to donate stems from personal experience. “It’s hard to focus on what you’re supposed to be learning that day without basic things like gloves to keep your hands warm while you wait on the school bus,” he said. While student groups are contributing to nonprofits with diverse agendas that benefit the many communities across the city, there is still time for all Longhorns to get involved because, as Sepulveda said, “If what starts here really does change the world, then why not be a community that helps those in need? Imagine what the world would look like if we did our part.”
“The collective benefit [of UT] can be utilized to help our community and the basic needs they so desperately deserve.”
The Texas Zephyrs host their fourth annual teddy bear drive, which benefits My Healing Race.
Wednesday, November 28, 2012
Letters to Santa
LONGHORN LIFE
Page 17
4 reasons to join
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Wednesday, November 28, 2012
TEXAS T N STUDEIA MED
NEW DIRECTOR OF TEXAS STUDENT MEDIA APPOINTED AUSTIN, Texas - Following her exemplary leadership as interimdirector, Jalah Goette has been selected as the new director of Texas Student Media (TSM), overseeing the daily operations of The Daily Texan, Texas Student Television (TSTV), KVRX 91.7 FM, Texas Travesty and the Cactus Yearbook. “Jalah has been an incredible member of the Texas Student Media team and is now the right person to lead the organization into the future,” said Dr. Gage E. Paine, vice president for Student Affairs, which oversees TSM. The appointment concluded a nine-month vacancy in which
Goette served as interim-director in addition to her other role as assistant director of TSM business and advertising. “By focusing on the educational experience and incorporating new ideas from students, we have a unique opportunity at Texas Student Media to help shape how college media will look in the very near future,” said Goette. “This is an exciting time and I look forward to my new role in supporting these leaders of tomorrow.” Goette earned her bachelor’s degree in Sociology from The University of Texas at Austin, during which time she participated in TSM
as a student. She joined the team as a staff member in 2008. Last spring, Goette was recognized with an Outstanding Staff Award at University President William Power’s Staff Award Ceremony. In 2010, she was honored with the M. Dolores Ebert Employee Excellence Award for exceptional contributions to student media at the university. Goette’s new role as the permanent director of Texas Student Media begins Nov. 12, 2012. For more information, contact: Joshua Cook, Office of the VicePresident for Student Affairs, 512232-5849.
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Our campus
Understanding the fiscal cliff
Wednesday, November 28, 2012
fiscalcliffcountdown.com
by Greer Gaddie Now that the 2012 elections are over, there’s a new political hot topic: avoiding the fiscal cliff, a term coined by Federal Reserve Chairman Ben Bernanke. Headlines tell us to be worried: “The fiscal cliff is looming,” “Grueling fiscal cliff negotiations” and “Investors nervous about fiscal cliff.” But what exactly is it, and what are its implications for the country? In late February of this year, Bernanke used the phrase to refer to the challenges facing the US and global economies. He warned the House Financial Committee of a “massive fiscal cliff” in our future, referring to large spending cuts and tax increases scheduled for January 1, 2013 in accordance with last year’s debt ceiling deal, the Budget Control Act. First, a bit of history. In 2001, Bush signed into law a series of tax cuts set to expire under the next president. Obama then extended those cuts and added his own, and in 2011 he and Congress agreed something needed to be done to resolve the debt ceiling crisis; hence the Budget Control Act, a bipartisan agreement that implements trillions in spending cuts and tax increases over a nine year period beginning in 2013 to reduce the now trillion dollar deficit. At the beginning of next year, if nothing’s done, the Bush-era tax cuts will expire — resulting in more than $500 billion in tax increases — and the act’s spending cuts will take effect. Many economists say that while our deficit is too high, the taxes and spending cuts would be too drastic and sudden for a slow recovering economy. What does the fiscal cliff look like in terms of taxes? For fiscal year 2012-2013, there would be a projected 19.63 percent increase in taxes, most of this attributable to the expiration of the Bush- and Obama-era tax cuts.
This increase amounts to almost half of the act’s expected savings. Average households would pay roughly $2,000 more in taxes next year, and those in the upper brackets would take a larger hit; put simply, the more you make, the more you’ll pay. Although programs like Social Security and Medicaid are exempt, spending for various federal agencies and cabinet departments would also be reduced. This package of automatic spending cuts is referred to as the budget sequester (another term you’ve probably heard thrown around lately). A White House report estimates that cuts for 2013 will amount to $109 billion. Some people are concerned because lawmakers have little discretion over where and how greatly the spending is reduced — the across-the-board cuts will hit all affected programs equally. While the economy has been steadily improving (unemployment is below eight percent, home prices are rising and consumer spending is up), some experts are saying the country could slip back into a recession if the spending cuts and tax increases are allowed to go into effect. The nonpartisan Congressional Budget Office predicts the gross domestic product — the output of goods and services produced in the US — would decrease by four percent in 2013, and the unemployment rate would increase by almost a full percentage point, which equates to a loss of almost two million jobs. In the long run, the Budget Control Act is essentially an austerity measure meant to reduce our country’s massive deficit, which most economists say is a good thing. The problem is that it does so too quickly. Lawmakers decided years ago they wanted the act —and what is now the fiscal cliff — to force conversa-
tion about more sensible, long term deficit reduction measures. And now the Congressional Budget Office has projected that making a deal to avoid the fiscal cliff would improve GDP growth by an astonishing 2.9 percent by the fourth quarter of next year. However, while Republicans and Democrats agree that something needs to be done to avoid potential repercussions, they can’t agree on what that something is. Most of the debate centers on the Bush-era tax cuts that apply to household incomes of over $200,000; if they expire, the top two income tax rates would increase. Not surprisingly, Republicans want to extend these cuts, and Democrats want to let them expire. There have been calls across party lines for a “grand bargain,” which would most likely include an extension of many of the tax cuts and a repeal of the automatic spending cuts. However a deal matters little if a timeline and framework for long term deficit reduction aren’t also agreed upon. Without an agreement, the fiscal cliff still looms.
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Wednesday, November 28, 2012
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Our campus
things I’ve learned… compiled by Nathalie Lumang photos by Chelsea Jackson
Dr. Lee Ann Kahlor Public relations At UT [8 years]
Dr. John A. Daly
Communication studies At UT [34 years]
Dr. Betsy Berry English At UT [21 years]
1. Finding a place to park is the key to survival. 2. Students can learn to love to read — and do. 3. Cat students are more forgiving than dog students. 4. Facebook has its pleasures and perils. 5. I get to spend quality time with young people who have much to teach me in return.
1. UT’s an amazingly small place for its large size — you really aren’t a number unless you want to be. 2. Teaching at UT matters. 3. Traditions are fun, and they count. 4. Students and student life don’t change that much. People still party, they fall in love and break up — and they always have excuses for why papers are late. 5. UT is always building new buildings.
1. When you lecture to a large audience from a stage or raised area, you should wear decent shoes. This occurred to me when I started teaching large lectures and noted an increase in comments about my shoes that same semester. The fact that I own many Danskos in a variety of colors is notable, it seems. 2. When you get to class early, put on the wireless mic and then decide you have time to use the restroom, you should turn off the mic. 3. Texas students are really, really good at memorizing stuff. It must be something in the water, or maybe the standardized testing that begins in utero. 4. I just learned this semester that some students tweet about your lecture during lecture. Talk about pressure. 5. I think, under certain circumstances, I like beef more than pork ribs.
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Wednesday, November 28, 2012
OUR CAMPUS
Faculty Update University supports work-life balance through benefits by Greer Gaddie With over 21,000 employees, The University of Texas is one of Austin’s largest employers. Part of what makes UT a great place to work is its commitment to helping employees “attain work-life balance while advancing excellence in teaching, research and service.” The holiday season is an important time to spend with family, and the university offers faculty members unique services to help them do just that. New hires often bring their spouses with them to Austin, and the university hires dual career couples. Regardless of whether or not your partner is in academia, UT will help him or her find on-campus or local employment. UT also understands that personal circumstances often make working difficult. Faculty members with a tenure-track probationary period can apply for leave extensions, which are granted automatically for child-
Faculty & Staff Events
birth and adoption. Benefits-eligible faculty members receive eight hours of sick leave each month, and unused hours carry over. UT also provides up to 12 weeks of unpaid family and medical leave in accordance with the Family Medical Leave Act. The act protects members of the military and individuals dealing with serious illnesses, childbirth, adoption or foster care placement or a sick child, spouse or parent. For those with children, UT extends child care services, including two daycare centers on campus that serve children between the ages of six weeks and five years. However the office of the executive vice provost and provost warns that there are a limited number of spaces available and that these spaces fill up fast. There is often a waiting list, so apply as early as possible. For pregnant employees, this can be as early as a due date is determined. If you’re unable to get on the list, UT’s child development center can help you
explore alternative arrangements. Other child care services include the School of Human Ecology’s child and family lab, family life resources and foster parent and parental leave. In a letter to faculty members, President Powers and Provost Leslie emphasized the importance of family, reiterating that UT “believes an environment of excellence is synonymous with an environment of wellness, and that wellness starts with balance. We are deeply committed to creating a supportive and productive environment that allows our faculty opportunities to maintain a healthy balance between their professional and personal lives.”
Nov. 27
Nov. 30
Free Retirement Guide Series: “Realize Your Retirement Dreams in Four Simple Steps” NOA 4.106A
Creating oral presentations with flair Free FAC 211
noon to 1 p.m.
3 to 4 p.m.
Wednesday, November 28, 2012
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OUR CAMPUS
Meet the... Vice president of student affairs by Mira Milla | photo by Courtney James
Dr. Gage E. Paine
B.A. at the University of Oklahoma; Ph.D. in educational administration at the University of Texas; J.D. at Texas Tech University
This year UT hired Dr. Gage Paine to overlook 14 of the university’s non-academic units. Not only is Paine coming back to the school where she used to study, she is coming back as the first woman vice president of student affairs. See what Paine has to say about adjusting to UT, her new position and what she likes to do in her spare time. Longhorn Life: Why did you choose this career? Gage Paine: I really like college campuses and students. I wasn’t in student affairs at first, but I realized students were more fun. I’ve worked directly with college students for 29 out of the 30 years I’ve been working. It’s fun, challenging and something worth doing. You can make a difference in somebody’s life, and that’s even better.
LL: What is your professional background? GP: I worked for 30 years as a full-time professional. I was at McMurry University in Abilene for my very first job for 11 years. After that I was at Southern Methodist University as the dean of students, then Trinity University as the vice president of student affairs, UT San Antonio as student affairs vice president and now here. I also worked as an undergraduate resident assistant at the University of Oklahoma and a residence hall director at Texas Tech.
LL: What is a typical work day for you? GP: I’m brand new here, so I spend a lot of time meeting as many people as possible, like student government leaders and the president of assembly. There’s always some sort of student component, but my typical workday also has me walking around campus and meeting people at student affairs. Right now a typical day is also part of my learning process. I try to figure out what’s important at UT; I figure out what the student issues and concerns are, and whom I need to know to make this university work well for students. There’s also a fair amount of email too. LL: What is your favorite part of the job? GP: It’s hard to name one thing, but meeting with students – absolutely. Recently I’ve worked with students and faculty on Hook the Vote. I also enjoy sitting down with the student affairs staff to figure out what will make things work better here. It’s all so important, fun and interesting. Everyone is trying to make the university better; sometimes it’s really challenging, but that’s part of what makes it interesting. Everything I do aims to make the university work better for all of us, particularly for students.
LL: What do you do in your spare time? GP: I have four dogs, so I like to hang out with them. Now it’s hard because I don’t get home before dark. But when I have time, I play with them and walk them around the neighborhood. I also like to read and knit. Recently I started learning how to draw, so I like to do some creative things and things that are different from the tasks I do here. Top of the list is reading, though. Reading is my constant pleasure.
LL: What’s a movie you could watch over and over? GP: Love Actually.
LL: Twitter or Facebook? GP: Both. Follow me on Twitter @GagePaine.
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