BANNER INSIDER BSection

Making smartphones holiday savvy

Black Friday freakoutA California Baptist University Campus Publication Volume 59 · Issue 6December 02, 2011

BY taYlor winchellcopY editor

BY taYlor rogersweB/video team

Shoppers scurry to registers at a local Aeropostale during Black Friday.photo by chris hardy

A smartphone seems to help at ev-ery turn. Whether connecting you with a long-distance friend, reminding you to wake up or lighting your path in a dark hallway, it is hard to imagine a day with-out it.

This Christmas, let your own per-sonal elf make the holiday season even better. Both the Apple and Android App Market have a plethora of applications to fill December with Christmas cheer. From apps that will organize your holi-day shopping to games that will ease the tension from your finals, there is some-thing for everyone and any need.

The ChriSTmAS LiSTLook no further for the best app

to conquer holiday shopping mad-ness. Simply enter the people you need to buy for, what you want to get them and go shop. This app or-ganizes each person, tracks spend-ing based on individuals or groups, and provides popular stores for each item. You can also password protect your list for the curious ones on your list. The ability to store photos of people and gifts customizes this essential app to

make this year’s shopping easier than ever.

Price: $0.99

SAnTA’S ChriSTmAS ViLLAgeThis is an app that will get you into

the Christmas spirit no matter how much time you have to spare. Visit Santa’s Village to play various classic games with a holiday twist, including Hangman, Checkers, Mahjong and Word Search. You can also listen to dif-ferent seasonal music to get you in the mood while enjoying these activities. Visit each shop within the village for a surprise every time you play.

Price: $0.99 (After a 50 percent Christmas special discount)

ChriSTmAS!!This app is for those who remember

the days when you opened the Advent Calendar every day until Christmas for a sweet treat. Christmas!! keeps you busy until the day Santa comes with games, songs and jokes for everyone to enjoy. Open your Calendar every day for a surprise. The best part is this app never gets old- use it again next December for a wintery wonderland of fun.

Price: Free

WhiTe ChriSTmASLiving in Southern California makes

it hard for many people to get the White

Christmas they may desire. Thankfully, this app allows you to fake your winter wonderland. Take a picture of yourself, friends, family or scenery, than add win-try images to your picture. You can place falling snow in your face, put a snowman in the background and much more. You can then upload your creation directly to Facebook and Twitter to show your friends a snowy Christmas.

Price: Free

WrApSpirATionMake each present you give this year

a masterpiece they will be reluctant to even open. Wrapspiration allows you to browse beautifully wrapped gifts and replicate them for yourself. Once you find a style you enjoy, simply click for de-tails on where to buy the exact wrapping paper, ribbons and accessories. Feel free to follow the pictures exactly or create your own twist. After following the in-structions on wrapping, you will be the envy under the Christmas tree.

Price: $0.99

ChriSTmAS ringToneSThis self-explanatory app does ex-

actly what it says. Simply preview the variety of beautiful Christmas-themed ringtones, find the one that suits you best and click to start. Customization is

key for this app- you can add different songs for calls, text messages and even assign special ringtones to certain people on your contact list. Tell your parents that “I’ll Be Home For Christmas” while singing your best friend a line of “Jingle Bells” this year for some holiday delight.

Price: $0.99

SnoWFALL LiVe WALLpAperMake your phone’s homescreen your

own holiday paradise. Set your screen for animated snow to fall gently on some pine trees and light up the page with the Aurora Borealis lights. Get in the Christmas spirit by adding some string lights or Santa’s sleigh in the background. Create your own customized version of a snowstorm with different options to control the weather. Finally, sit back and enjoy your personalized winter, even if it is from inside a classroom.

Price: $0.99

FLighTVieW eLiTeThough this app is more expensive

than most, it can be critical help for a frequent holiday traveler. As the app’s information page says, it allows you to “check flight arrival and departure times, view a flight’s altitude and speed, save trip details, and see airport delay maps all from the comfort of your phone.” With airport directions to weather forecasts, this will help you from the start to end of

your holiday trips. It also shows you the approximate location of any flight in the air so you can check in on family com-ing to you for Christmas. With this app’s assistance, you will spend less time on travel worries and more time on enjoy-ing the holidays.

Price: $3.99

XmAS CAroLS – KArAoKe Sing ALongAs Buddy the Elf says, “The best way

to spread Christmas cheer is singing loud for all to hear!” Add some cheer to your holiday season by going caroling with friends and family using this handy app. Pick from a variety of traditional Christmas songs and simply follow along with the accompanying words and music. The full-length soundtracks will make your voices sound even better as your group grab some hot cocoa, open this app and give your neighbors a rea-son to smile.

Price: $0.99

ChriSTmAS TALePrice: Free

Angry BirdS SeASonSPrice: Free

epiCuriouSPrice: Free

apple Users

android Users

Both Users

Let’s face it, nobody wants to en-dure the hustle and bustle of holiday shopping, but what if there are deals in-volved? It seems that makes a difference.

According to the National Retail Federation, this year’s sales numbers reached a record high.

In a news release by the NRF from Sunday, Nov. 27, “a record 226 million shoppers visited stores and websites over Black Friday weekend, up from 212 million last year.”

Spending reached an all time high this year, as well, with consumers spending an estimated $52.4 billion.

Online sales were up too with shop-pers, “spending an average of $150.53 on the web – 37.8 percent of their total weekend spending.”

What are folks spending all this cash on? Well, according to the NRF, clothes and electronic items are the main moneymakers.

“More than half (51.4%) bought

clothing and clothing accessories, and gift buyers were also drawn to promo-tions on electronics and computer-related accessories over the weekend. Nearly four in 10 (39.4%) bought elec-tronic items, up from 36.7 percent last year. Additionally, shoppers stocked up on home décor (21.3%), gift cards (23.1%), toys (32.6%) and jewelry (13.8%).”

Information for this survey was con-ducted over a 3-day period with a mar-gin of error plus or minus 1.6 percent.

Cade Woolsey worked Black Friday at Game Stop in Moreno Valley. The stressful and tiring day ended with good profits for the store.

“I got there at 4 in the morning and the line was out of the door the entire day,” Woosley said. “We sold 862 copies of ‘Call of Duty’.”

Whether shoppers were on Thanksgiving meal high or couldn’t wait to get the deals of the year, they certainly did make this year’s Black Friday the most profitable than any other year.

FEATURES Page B2December 02, 2011 · Volume 59 · Issue 6

A staff writer chronicles experience with autistic brother

Autistic disorders: a family challenge

Being an older brother of a child with a mild form of Autism, called Asperger`s syndrome, I have discov-ered skills that help me to be a good older brother. The skills I use to com-municate with my little brother have sharpened over the years and he en-joys spending time with me, whether that is playing video games or helping him figure something out. My little brother is not a brother with a dis-ability - he is family. He is my brother.

Here are a few things that I per-sonally feel might help you to gain knowledge to help you live and love a child who has Autism.

1) What I do when my brother wants to express his ideas to me

openly, I let him speak, and I listen. I do not just nod my head and say “Uh huh,” “Yeah” or “Ah.”

2) When he asks for me to play with him, and I am busy, I am honest. Very few times do I say “We`ll see,” or “Maybe.” It is better to be honest, rather than being unsure and not fol-lowing through.

3) Keep discipline within an au-tistic child, but of course, in realistic moderation. Do not let the child use the phrase “Well I have Autism so I don`t have to do that” as an excuse. My brother is very intelligent, and when he is motivated, he is amaz-ing. Every child has their own unique abilities. So let them thrive in their abilities, and not always have excuses.

4) If your child is tired and needs a break from say, homework, let your child do so, but make sure af-ter your child has rested, that their mind is back on task. The time your child needs may vary, as every child is unique.

5) And of course, love your child!

BY caseY cookstaff writer amy stumpf, ph.d. is the associate professor of society and religion and

international Justice mission club adviser.

how did you get to CBu?crazy story. i just got married and i was working in irvine. i could not take the two-

hour commute each way and i was like, “lord, i need a job in riverside.” i never even heard of cBU and i kept seeing— on the 91—what looked like barracks. and now i know it was the dorms. i asked my husband, “what is that?” and he said, “oh, i think that’s a college.” so, i was at that point desperate enough. i walked in to the hr office over here in James and i said, “i need a job. i’ll do anything. i’ll work in the cafeteria or i’ll clean toilets” and i vividly remember her looking at me like, “what kind of crazy person is this?” she said, “well, here’s what we have available.” i applied for every single job and i got one.”

What was your first job at CBu?the secretary to the registrar and then i worked my way up through the academic

affairs department, so i was the director of advising and then the dean for academic services. and then when i had my children, i wanted to be home more, so i came over and did a faculty position. i’d been teaching in the evenings, meanwhile i was doing the other jobs, so it worked out that be full-time faculty.

What are your main roles on campus?well, i teach a lot. this semester, i have almost two hundred students. i don’t

know hardly any of their names. i do the international Justice mission campus chap-ter. it’s a fun group. and, i like to go watch basketball games and fun things like that.

What do you do outside of CBu?my husband’s a pastor, so i spend some time at church working with ministries

there or with people who need my time there. But, i have two children: eight and eleven. thanksgiving week, we were doing science projects.

Besides teaching, you also founded and currently act as the adviser to the campus chapter of iJm. What prompted you to start this club four years ago?

i was getting more involved with iJm in my personal life and part of my profes-sion because, of course, i’m a social ethics kind of gal. so, i wanted to see, well how can i, firstly, make those kinds of ideas and opportunities available to students on campus. i began to realize there are many students who have these interests and passions, but we didn’t necessarily have an outlet for them and a place where they could come and get together, learn and grow in that. and, we didn’t necessarily have coursework aimed at that. so, there was a need and it allowed me to be connected to iJm in a local way.

Why, in your opinion, should social justice be important to Christians?i think if you read the Bible, you’ll see that it’s important to god, because it’s the

foretelling of how his role will look and, if we believe Jesus is already king [and] that he is genuinely lord, we’ll want his rule to be unfolding for people to see. so, i guess i’ll go back to, if you read the Bible, i don’t think you can get out of social justice. it matters that people flourish.

it seems like tough work, so how do you not get bogged down by thinking about these things continually?

on any given week, i might be teaching about a genocide, about child soldiering, about trafficking and 30 million victims a year, and people ask me, “how do you not get depressed?” and, you know, i don’t know if i were not a christian how i’d keep my emotional head above water. i don’t get depressed, because i everyday can see that god is winning and he will win. and, i can pick up a newspaper and see there’s a slave that has been freed, there’s a child that has been freed, there’s a bad guy that’s no longer terrorizing people. i also spend time praying and part of the praying is celebrating that god’s goodness is bigger than all of this badness. i have to believe that. and then very important is to gather with my iJm group and say, “i’m not alone. this is not just me against and evil world.” there’s joy in the fellowship.

interesting person: Amy Stumpf

BY JennY minereditor-in-chief

here are some facts from the Autism Speaks Website: autismspeaks.org• Autism now affects 1 in 110 chil-

dren and 1 in 70 boys• Autism prevalence figures are

growing.• more children will be diag-

nosed with autism this year than with AidS, diabetes and cancer combined.

• Autism is the fastest growing seri-ous developmental disability in the u.S.

• Autism costs the nation over 35 billion dollars per year, a figure expected to significantly increase in the next decade.

• Autism receives less than 5 per-cent of the research funding of many less prevalent childhood diseases.

• Boys are four times more likely than girls to have autism

• There is no medical detection or cure for autism.

pilar orellanaassistant food & cUltUre editor

Say farewell to the last class of 2011

It is that time again when stu-dents come to the end of their college careers, ready to enter the real world.

These seniors will close their chapter at California Baptist University and begin the next.

Frances Hooker, market-ing major, desires to work in missions.

“I knew I wanted to work for a church, possibly helping mis-sionaries raise funds to go over-seas, help the church do out-reach and community events,” Hooker said.

After being a history major and an art major, Hooker real-ized marketing would help reach that goal.

Off the field, Tina Galinato, has worked rigorously on her ki-nesiology major. She took sum-mer school classes every year and earned units at a community college in addition to her units at CBU.

“My goals are to get my mas-ter’s degree in kinesiology and work until I go into occupational therapy,” Galinato said.

Hooker and Galinato have put in many hours of hard work to be where they are, and soon they will walk across the stage at Harvest Christian Fellowship, where commencement exer-cises take place, to receive their diplomas.

Looking back, they had life-

changing experiences at CBU.“Before I came to CBU, I was

lukewarm and ignorant of the deep, relational love Christ has for us. Now, my relationship with him is personal and is truly my identity,” Hooker said.

“When I was a freshman, I didn’t know what I wanted … as the years went by, I grew and re-alized that if I was going to get something done, I had to do it myself,” Galinato said.

They realized, through hard work and faith, it was possible to let God take control and still strive for what they wanted.

“Learning to depend on my-self first was one of the biggest things I changed,” Galinato said.

These are the seniors’ fi-nal days being on campus, liv-ing with their roommates and walking to the Alumni Dining Commons. They have acquired fond memories throughout their years as Lancers.

“I loved when Michael Franzese spoke in chapel. His testimony was so humbling and heroic,” Hooker said.

“Intramural football this year was a blast. I loved the girls I played with, and even though I didn’t know any of them before joining the team, they made me feel like a valued part of the group,” Hooker said.

The best memories are cre-ated with those around the most – friends. Galinato has a tight-niched bond with her teammates in which she dedicates most of

her college experience to the “softball life.”

“The people that came in and out of my life were amaz-ing, and everything I’ve been through has been worth it … Nothing can replace the memories I made. Anyone on a team would know what I mean,” Galinato said.

Reflecting on their experi-ences, they not only gained lifelong friendships but ma-tured and learned more about who they are.

Hooker secured a job with her church, Crossroads Christian Church in Corona.

“[I will be doing] their so-cial media and developing their online campus and com-munity groups, which will be incredible,” Hooker said.

As many seniors will say, time at CBU is short. Enjoy friends, professors and time spent learning. These are times that shape lives.

“The admissions staff is amazing. Through my intern-ship with them, I made huge leaps in overcoming my fear of public speaking and meeting people. The staff truly cares about student leaders and stu-dent workers in their office,” Hooker said.

“I would tell the under-classmen to take this experi-ence in and enjoy the ride. It goes by faster than you think,” Galinato said.

HEALTH Page B3December 02, 2011 · Volume 59 · Issue 6

Winter brings cheer with the holi-day season, but it also brings dryness, chapped lips and split ends.

Dryness is common during win-ter, so be mindful of your body be-cause winter elements may suck the moisture right out of you.

According to the WebMD.com article “Prevent and Soothe Chapped Winter Hands,” lack of moisture causes dryness. In winter, humidity in the outside air plummets. Being in-side is drier, as indoor heating creates desert-like conditions.

There are a few simple precau-tions you can take to keep your skin, lips and hair soft and smooth as they were in the summertime.

Hydration keeps your locks, lips and skin from drying and breaking. It is the same as drinking water – you drink to quench thirst and stay hy-

drated. Your body craves moisture, which is why lip balms, lotions and creams help prevent dryness.

Chapped lips are uncomfortable. They are common during winter and can be very painful. Carry a moistur-izing lip balm on hand to keep your lips feeling soft and supple.

To prevent your skin from becom-ing dry and rough, apply thick body cream daily to keep your skin feel-ing smooth. Before applying lotion, use moisturizing shower gel or body wash. This jump-starts hydration be-fore applying anything else.

Since the face is exposed, keeping it soft and moisturized is important. Depending on skin type, find a mois-

turizer that suits you. Moreover, SPF is not just for summertime. Be sure to find a moisturizer with SPF to protect your skin from UV rays.

Do not forget about nails. The cu-ticles can get dry, which causes tear-ing and peeling. Invest in cuticle oil that you can massage around your nails to keep them soft and pain-free. Massage the oil in and around each nail bed and rinse off after five minutes.

In winter, feet are covered and protected. However, that does not mean they should be neglected. Avoid rough, cracked skin by soaking them. Use a heavy-duty, moisturizing foot cream to keep them soft.

Not only can skin but also hair gets dry during winter. Prevent hair breakage, frizziness and split ends by using moisturizing hair care prod-ucts. Condition during every wash and invest in a deep conditioning treatment, which will leave your hair looking healthy. If you prefer using heat to condition your hair, use se-rums or creams.

Out of every tip to staying hy-drated, the most important is to drink more water. The only cause for dryness, besides the weather, is lack of hydration. By drinking water, the body remains hydrated and your skin looks as healthy as it did during the summer.

The holidays are characterized as a time of joy and warmth. For some people, they bring sadness and loneliness.

The memories of lost loved ones or relationships, past hurts or sim-ply unexplained low spirits may be especially strong around the holi-days. However, there are ways of

coping with seasonal blues.According to the article, “Beating

the Holiday Blues” by Maud Purcell on psychcentral.com, exercise is a simple but significant way of mitigating sad feelings. Though exercising will not change unhappy circumstances, it helps “fight any chemical causes for your holiday funk,” the article said.

Philanthropy also helps combat depressed moods. According to an oprah.com article, “10 Ways to Beat the Holiday Blues” by Elizabeth Lesser, helping others “is the best antidote to self-pity and seasonal sadness.”

Purcell also echoes this idea.“Instead of feeling glum you’ll find

yourself experiencing what the holi-days are really about: giving to others,” Purcell said.

Holding on to bitterness can be an-other source of unhappiness. During the holidays, people come in contact with family members who may have hurt them, and sometimes the inter-action is difficult.

In Mark Sichel’s article, “10 Tips to Beat the Holiday Blues,” he advises in-dividuals to let go of grudges.

“Do not feel it is helpful or intimate to tell your relative every resentment on your laundry list of grievances,” Sichel said.

Linda Mintle also offers the same advice in her article entitled “How to Beat the Holiday Blues” on cbn.com.

“Even though that person is diffi-cult and maybe even mean at times,

you be the person of Christ to that person,” Mintle said.

The arrival of Christmastime can be a reminder of normal family imper-fections. Since Christmas is tradition-ally a family holiday, circumstances like divorces or death are particularly painful.

For those who do not have families to celebrate with or cannot spend the holidays with their families, Purcell suggests thinking outside the box.

“Contrary to popular opinion, there are no rules for how you spend your holidays,” Purcell said. “So if old traditions bring up unhappy memo-ries, start new ones. If you don’t have family, share the holidays with good friends. Don’t wait for them to include you; make them welcome in your home instead.”

As with every painful experience, unburdening oneself in prayer helps in the healing process. Mintle offers her advice concerning managing holiday blues.

“Talk to God, slow yourself down, allow for quiet time; give your mind a chance to rest in the Lord and really focus on who God is and what He says about you,” Mintle said.

It is important to remember that God is a loving Father who deeply cares about his children and that his children are never truly alone. Moreover, another cause of holiday blues is losing sight of the heart of the season: Jesus Christ. Though past or present circumstances are not ideal, keep in mind the true meaning of Christmas: the miracle of Christ’s birth.

BY pilar orellanaassistant food & cUltUre editor

Minus winter dryness

undo seasonal blues

It is that time of the year where the delights of the season are ever-present.

Tempting, yet delicious foods like cakes, cookies, specialty coffees, hot chocolate, pies, eggnog, Panettone, latkes, candies and holiday snacks can be hard to resist.

Though these highly caloric foods are everywhere, there is a way to enjoy seasonal treats without expanding your waist.

preSSure + ToTAL reSiSTAnCe = oVerinduLgenCe

Putting pressure on yourself to avoid treats entirely is problematic and unreal-istic. However, that does not mean you should throw away goals either. There should be a balance between eating healthy and enjoying the holiday season. Do not deprive yourself to the point that food is all you ever think about.

FoCuS on FAmiLy And FriendS“Eat, drink and be merry” is a rel-

evant slogan to this holiday season, but

in times like these, the focus should be on spending time with family and friends. Partaking in food is fine, but when it comes to gatherings, the food is not the focal point; it is in-teracting with others. Catch up with family and friends during your time off because rare moments like these, not the food, make life memorable. By interacting with others, it is eas-ier to not completely indulge in the food.

AVoid SKipping meALSAttending dinners or parties on

an empty stomach can be problem-atic. It is best to eat regularly be-cause attending a party or a dinner starving may result in overeating. Instead of waiting in anticipation, have low-fat, healthy snacks like an apple or celery sticks with peanut butter beforehand so you will not overindulge later.

ChooSe WiSeLy And uSe porTion ConTroL

If sweets are too enticing, reach for raw veggies or fruits for appe-

tizers. If food is served buffet-style, take small samples so you enjoy a variety without overeating.

poLiTeLy deCLineMost people tend to overeat, which

entails being offered various appetiz-ers, dishes or desserts. However, saying “yes” to every single offering increases the chances of gaining weight. If you are full or watching what you eat and constantly offered food, it is okay to politely decline in a way that will not offend your host(s). Polite phrases like “Thanks, but I’m full” or “No thanks, I’ve had enough for tonight” can pre-vent you from consuming unwanted extra calories.

generoSiTySince this is the season of giv-

ing, why not bring a dish like a salad or a fruit or vegetable platter that gives others a healthy alterna-tive? According to UCLA’s Student Nutrition Awareness Campaign, your host will appreciate the help. On the plus side, you may influ-ence your friends, family mem-bers or coworkers to start making healthier choices.

Since Christmas only comes once a year, taking these steps will help balance staying healthy and partak-ing in seasonal delights.

BY Janelle Johnstonstaff writer

BY Bianca Johnsonhealth editor

Healthy holidays

photo by nichelle truloveThis season eat, drink and be merry responsibly.

How to avoid a ‘melancholiday’

Tips to stay healthy this season

Methods to keeping your skin moisturized

Page B4December 02, 2011 · Volume 59 · Issue 6

For the tech savvy, music loving, or stylish guy:

Griffin Slap $24.99 This wristwatch frame is designed

to turn a 6th generation iPod Nano into a wristwatch. The iPod snaps into the frame and becomes the face of the watch, providing the time as well as easy access to music. It is made of metal and silicone, and snaps around the wrist in a variety of colors.

Available at Griffin.com.

For the creative soul, artist or photographer: Foldography Fun Pinhole Camera $14.99

ModCloth.com offers stylishly unique clothing and accessories, as well as unique gifts. For the friend that is constantly creating, encourage their efforts with a build-your-own pinhole camera. Once built, and loaded with film the camera only needs a subject and light to create a one-of-a-kind image. Film is not included. Pick up a box of 35mm film at ISO 200, available at Target for $6.99.

Available at ModCloth.com.

For the ninja enthusiast: Ninjabread Men Cookie Cutters $7.99

For the friend with a black belt or the one who simply enjoys ninja movies, look no further than Fred’s Ninjabread Men Cookie Cutters. The three action shaped cookie cutters are made from food safe plastic and make 4” cookies.

Available at PerpetualKid.com.

By Sarah Jane O’KeefeDesign By: Brianna Nelson

For Mom: CZ heart swing necklace $29.99

If you are looking for a way to show a little love to mom, consider a silver heart pendant with room to personalize framed by an open cubic zirconium heart. The necklaces’ pendant can be engraved on both sides.

For Grandma: Jeweled angel water globe $25.99

This intricate water globe features an angel and plays Pachelbel’s “Canon”. As with all Things Remembered products, engraving is free up to a certain number of characters (in this case up to 120).

For your roommate: Krochet Kids $31.95

Each cap is handmade by a refu-gee in Uganda, providing them with work and hope. Pass that hope along by purchasing a unique hat like the Thomas. This ski style hat comes in four colors and is sure to suit anyone with its earflaps, tassels and remov-able ball.

Available at KrochetKids.com.

For anyone: Toms (price varies depending on style)

Your significant other may like Toms One for One tee (at $28) while the younger sibling at home might appreciate the “coolness” of having a pair just like you (youth Toms run $38-$42). What makes this popular shoe socially conscience is that no matter what style shoe you purchase, Toms One-for-One promise guarantees that a pair is donated to a child in need.

Available at Toms.com as well as select stores.

For everyone: Donating Show care and compassion by donating in

someone’s name. Consider donating toys to a toy drive, money to a charity, food to a pantry, or time to an organization. Let the person know what you have done in their name by jotting down your deed in their Christmas card. The California Department of Fire and Forest Protection (CalFire) hosts an an-nual toy drive known as Spark of Love, and has collection bins at every station as well as stores and holiday events. Teen Challenge accepts dona-tions, as well as Habitat for Humanity and Invisible Children. Ask the local food bank what foods they need most, or serve a meal at a soup kitchen.

Socially conscious

Whether you are a socially conscience

buyer or shopping for someone who

has the welfare of others on their mind,

think about giving a gift that gives back.

Consider making a difference with the gifts

you purchase this year by spending money

on socially conscience gifts or by donating

toys, money, food or time to charity.

SentimentalIf you are looking for a sentimen-

tal gift, consider Things Remembered. This store specializes in engraved gifts perfect for loved ones. Prices range from $15 to $100, but for a student on a budget, here are some ideas that will not only leave a lasting impression on the recipients’ face, but also a little padding in your wallet.

Fun and Unique

The people in life that bring

laughter and joy deserve a gift

that is as fun and unique as they

are. When the usual gift ideas do

not quite fit the personality of such

friends, look to more creative ideas

that reflect the quirky personalities

of such friends.

For your older sibling: Project 7’s Feed Promo Pack $30

Project 7 is a company with the pur-pose of giving back and sells products that do just that in seven areas – heal the sick, save the earth, house the homeless, feed the hungry, quench the thirsty, teach them well, hope for peace. While Project 7 has many products that support these areas, the Feed Promo Pack provides 15 meals to American communities and features a t-shirt (made from recycled bottles), coffee, gum and mints.

Button Hair ClipsThis easy project is a great

present for anybody and can be saved for many years to come.

All one needs is:*Scissors (the sharper, the

better)*Two large pieces of fleece (must be the

same size and large enough to be used as a blanket)

To Make:Lay the two pieces of fleece on the floor,

one on top of the other, and begin cutting two to three inch slits in both pieces of fabric on all sides. Be sure to keep the slits evenly spaced and cut just as deep into the fabric. At the corners there should be squares of fabric left over; cut them off since they will not be needed for this project.

Now, begin tying all the slits cut in the top fleece to the ones cut in the bottom fleece. Double knot the ties so they do not come undone

Tie BlanketThis makes a great gift for sisters or friends

who are girls and is very easy to make. Just make sure to give them several.

All that is needed is:An assortment of buttons*GlueBobby pins or plain alligator or beak hair

clips

To make:Glue a button or two (or more if they are

small and there is room) to the end of the clip or pin that does not open. Make sure not to glue the hair piece shut. Once the glue dries, place the decorative button clips in a box and wrap. It is simple, but a few buttons can transform a plain hair doodad to a whole new hair accessory.Double knot the ties so they do not come undone.

By: Jennifer LaMonica

For Dad: Leather money clip with card holder $20.00

Dad’s are often difficult to shop for, but this gift is a fit for a dad with any style, be it classic or modern. Its slim style keeps cash and cards organized in a sleek man-ner. Personalize its silver plate with up to 30 characters, a perfect place to serve as a constant reminder of just how much he means to you.

HandmadeFew gifts can compare to the heartwarming classic homemade Christmas present. Contrary to what some may think, homemade gifts do not have to appear cheap and do not take a lot of talent. Anybody can make a great homemade Christmas present that will be treasured by trying these easy projects.

A College student’s guide to gift giving

Page B5December 02, 2011 · Volume 59 · Issue 6

For the tech savvy, music loving, or stylish guy:

Griffin Slap $24.99 This wristwatch frame is designed

to turn a 6th generation iPod Nano into a wristwatch. The iPod snaps into the frame and becomes the face of the watch, providing the time as well as easy access to music. It is made of metal and silicone, and snaps around the wrist in a variety of colors.

Available at Griffin.com.

For the creative soul, artist or photographer: Foldography Fun Pinhole Camera $14.99

ModCloth.com offers stylishly unique clothing and accessories, as well as unique gifts. For the friend that is constantly creating, encourage their efforts with a build-your-own pinhole camera. Once built, and loaded with film the camera only needs a subject and light to create a one-of-a-kind image. Film is not included. Pick up a box of 35mm film at ISO 200, available at Target for $6.99.

Available at ModCloth.com.

For the ninja enthusiast: Ninjabread Men Cookie Cutters $7.99

For the friend with a black belt or the one who simply enjoys ninja movies, look no further than Fred’s Ninjabread Men Cookie Cutters. The three action shaped cookie cutters are made from food safe plastic and make 4” cookies.

Available at PerpetualKid.com.

By Sarah Jane O’KeefeDesign By: Brianna Nelson

For Mom: CZ heart swing necklace $29.99

If you are looking for a way to show a little love to mom, consider a silver heart pendant with room to personalize framed by an open cubic zirconium heart. The necklaces’ pendant can be engraved on both sides.

For Grandma: Jeweled angel water globe $25.99

This intricate water globe features an angel and plays Pachelbel’s “Canon”. As with all Things Remembered products, engraving is free up to a certain number of characters (in this case up to 120).

For your roommate: Krochet Kids $31.95

Each cap is handmade by a refu-gee in Uganda, providing them with work and hope. Pass that hope along by purchasing a unique hat like the Thomas. This ski style hat comes in four colors and is sure to suit anyone with its earflaps, tassels and remov-able ball.

Available at KrochetKids.com.

For anyone: Toms (price varies depending on style)

Your significant other may like Toms One for One tee (at $28) while the younger sibling at home might appreciate the “coolness” of having a pair just like you (youth Toms run $38-$42). What makes this popular shoe socially conscience is that no matter what style shoe you purchase, Toms One-for-One promise guarantees that a pair is donated to a child in need.

Available at Toms.com as well as select stores.

For everyone: Donating Show care and compassion by donating in

someone’s name. Consider donating toys to a toy drive, money to a charity, food to a pantry, or time to an organization. Let the person know what you have done in their name by jotting down your deed in their Christmas card. The California Department of Fire and Forest Protection (CalFire) hosts an an-nual toy drive known as Spark of Love, and has collection bins at every station as well as stores and holiday events. Teen Challenge accepts dona-tions, as well as Habitat for Humanity and Invisible Children. Ask the local food bank what foods they need most, or serve a meal at a soup kitchen.

Socially conscious

Whether you are a socially conscience

buyer or shopping for someone who

has the welfare of others on their mind,

think about giving a gift that gives back.

Consider making a difference with the gifts

you purchase this year by spending money

on socially conscience gifts or by donating

toys, money, food or time to charity.

SentimentalIf you are looking for a sentimen-

tal gift, consider Things Remembered. This store specializes in engraved gifts perfect for loved ones. Prices range from $15 to $100, but for a student on a budget, here are some ideas that will not only leave a lasting impression on the recipients’ face, but also a little padding in your wallet.

Fun and Unique

The people in life that bring

laughter and joy deserve a gift

that is as fun and unique as they

are. When the usual gift ideas do

not quite fit the personality of such

friends, look to more creative ideas

that reflect the quirky personalities

of such friends.

For your older sibling: Project 7’s Feed Promo Pack $30

Project 7 is a company with the pur-pose of giving back and sells products that do just that in seven areas – heal the sick, save the earth, house the homeless, feed the hungry, quench the thirsty, teach them well, hope for peace. While Project 7 has many products that support these areas, the Feed Promo Pack provides 15 meals to American communities and features a t-shirt (made from recycled bottles), coffee, gum and mints.

Button Hair ClipsThis easy project is a great

present for anybody and can be saved for many years to come.

All one needs is:*Scissors (the sharper, the

better)*Two large pieces of fleece (must be the

same size and large enough to be used as a blanket)

To Make:Lay the two pieces of fleece on the floor,

one on top of the other, and begin cutting two to three inch slits in both pieces of fabric on all sides. Be sure to keep the slits evenly spaced and cut just as deep into the fabric. At the corners there should be squares of fabric left over; cut them off since they will not be needed for this project.

Now, begin tying all the slits cut in the top fleece to the ones cut in the bottom fleece. Double knot the ties so they do not come undone

Tie BlanketThis makes a great gift for sisters or friends

who are girls and is very easy to make. Just make sure to give them several.

All that is needed is:An assortment of buttons*GlueBobby pins or plain alligator or beak hair

clips

To make:Glue a button or two (or more if they are

small and there is room) to the end of the clip or pin that does not open. Make sure not to glue the hair piece shut. Once the glue dries, place the decorative button clips in a box and wrap. It is simple, but a few buttons can transform a plain hair doodad to a whole new hair accessory.Double knot the ties so they do not come undone.

By: Jennifer LaMonica

For Dad: Leather money clip with card holder $20.00

Dad’s are often difficult to shop for, but this gift is a fit for a dad with any style, be it classic or modern. Its slim style keeps cash and cards organized in a sleek man-ner. Personalize its silver plate with up to 30 characters, a perfect place to serve as a constant reminder of just how much he means to you.

HandmadeFew gifts can compare to the heartwarming classic homemade Christmas present. Contrary to what some may think, homemade gifts do not have to appear cheap and do not take a lot of talent. Anybody can make a great homemade Christmas present that will be treasured by trying these easy projects.

A College student’s guide to gift giving

Winter is here, which means the hunt is on for this season’s trendiest boots. With several styles in mind, students may feel uncertain about which to choose. In the end, we are in search for just the right fit.

Women’s winter boots have become more functional, yet they are still fash-ionable. They are categorized by type, length, color and texture.

Finding the right winter boot for any environment is tricky, but with many trends kicking off this season, the list is endless.

Boots, such as the classic combat with an oxford twist. Designers have added to the trend a shearling-lined de-sign accentuating the form.

Synthetic furs, buckles, studs, straps, scrunched and print are popular when finding the right boot.

Folding over the flap and exposing the inside print is a new trend. A great thing about boots is that you can easily lace them up, zip them shut or slip them on, keeping it easy and modern.

Another trendy style of boot is the over-the-knee or thigh-high form. If worn correctly with classy apparel, these boots are perfect for winter.

Pairing these over-the-knee boots with leggings, skinny jeans, or tights will give you a longer shape and will be the key piece to your outfit.

Whichever preference of boot, lay-ers are in. Leg warmers, tights, stock-ings or even a pair of knitted cable socks go great with them.

This allows ladies to still wear dress-es and skirts along with their favorite scarves. Remember: find a pair that completes an outfit.

Men also have put on their winter boots this season. With boots from military to Chukka boots, the list is un-limited as well.

Women borrowed the masculine style of the military boot, otherwise known as combat boot, but gave it their feminine twist with either fur or plaid fabric all through the inside of the boot.

The hottest trend for men’s foot-wear is motorcycle boots, keeping their rock-hard image the staple of their fashion statement.

These boots are perfect when pair-ing with jeans on the weekend when you want that extra edge.

Chukka boots have also made its mark. Hit at the ankle with a few laces look like a rendition of moccasins with a vintage twist of oxfords.

These boots can be more on the hipster scene but are compatible if pair-ing with jeans or dressy of with slim-fit slacks.

Now that winter is here, to men and women, grab a pair of boots that will define your style or maybe just the look you are going for that day, whether if its edgy or hipster, a pair of boots will keep your feet warm and keep your style on point.

December 02, 2011 · Volume 59 · Issue 6FOOD & CULTURE Page B6

BY mercedes leBron and pilar orellana

staff writerand assistant food & cUltUre editor

Give winter the boot

Re-creating a childhood memory has never been so fun and easy. If you are looking to change things up this holiday season, try building your own gingerbread house from scratch. Build the traditional house with four walls and a roof, or if your inner architect desires, try building a replica of the James Building or the Yeager Center. Follow these easy steps:

ingredienTS1 cup butter, softened2 cups brown sugar4 eggs8 cups all purpose flour1 teaspoon baking soda½ teaspoon of salt1 teaspoon of allspice1 teaspoon ground cinnamonRolling pinBaking sheetPoster boardKnifeWater1 can of frostingPlastic zip bagCandy

mAKing The gingerBreAd1. Combine butter, brown sug-

ar and eggs and stir until blended.2. Add your dry ingredients to

a second bowl. Combine 2 cups of flour, baking soda, salt and spic-es. After you give a good mix of the dry ingredients, mix the two bowls of ingredients together.

3. Slowly add in the 6 cups of remaining flour to the mixture. Fold it back and forth until it is incorporated well and you have a nice doughy consistency.

4. Preheat the oven to 350 de-grees Fahrenheit. Roll out dough to the desired thickness. 1/8 of an inch is recommended to build a manageable house. Place on a greased baking sheet and bake for 10 minutes, then let cool before you build.

BuiLding your gingerBreAd houSe

1. Create your template with poster board for the gingerbread house. This is where you can be creative. Just sketch out the build-ing you wish to create and then you can decide on how you will create the shapes. If you do not feel up to the artistic challenge,

but still want a spectacular gin-gerbread house, templates can be found at any craft store like Michael’s.

2. Cut the gingerbread with a sharp knife into the shapes you have selected.

(Tip: run the knife under cold water before cutting to get a smooth cut).

3. Spoon frosting into a plastic bag and cut off the tip to create an easy frosting dispenser.

4. Squeeze out frosting along the edges of the gingerbread shapes and glue them together. Let the pieces dry, then go back and use the frosting as glue on the outside of the seams of the house.

5. Let your gingerbread house stand still for at least 30 minutes.

6. Decorate your gingerbread house with small candies us-ing the frosting as glue. Use Kit Kat bars, peppermint candies and Twizzlers for designing. Marshmallows make great snow-men to be placed next to your gingerbread house for added character.

(Tip: Use toothpicks to at-tach larger pieces of candy to the house).

BY cristin masseYpr/ad team

how-to: Craft a gingerbread house from scratch

photo by Bryan Jarboeprotect your toes from the chill with this season’s trendiest boots.

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FOOD & CULTURE Page B7

After the turkey, stuffing and cranberry sauce are gone, one thing students look forward to after Thanksgiving is Christmas music on the radio.

Without music, the yuletide season would be less merry and give students no reason to celebrate the semester’s

end. Songs say more than presents ever will, and there are hundreds to tickle our eardrums. With more than 50 years of albums to choose from, where do we start? The following selection is not extensive and contains four unique Christmas albums worth enjoying:

mAriAh CArey’S “merry ChriSTmAS”November 1, 1994Genre: Gospel/Adult contemporaryThis classic album has sold over 15

million copies worldwide and is one of

the best-selling Christmas albums of all time. What was originally Carey’s desire to portray her religious beliefs in an album became a masterpiece that proved to critics she was an entertainer, not just a pop singer. The album contains three original songs: the timeless hit “All I Want for Christmas Is You”, the melancholy, reflective “Miss You Most (At Christmas Time)” and the religious, children’s choir-assisted “Jesus Born on This Day.” Her covers, which highlight her five-octave range, will leave listeners

speechless and praising the Lord. There is no doubt why it reenters the top 40 of Billboard’s Holiday Albums chart every year.

dAVid ArChuLeTA’S “ChriSTmAS From The heArT”

October 13, 2009Genre: Pop/ReligiousAfter finishing second on “American

Idol,” then 18-year-old Archuleta’s musical vision makes his second album shine. Despite selling fewer than 300,000 copies, the underappreciated album brings Christmas music to a new standard. Each track stands out, including his “Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas” duet with Filipino singer Charice Pempengco. Other songs combine two carols, like “Hark the Herald Angels Sing” with “Joy to the World” and “Jesu Joy of Man’s Desiring” with “Angels We Have Heard on High.” Archuleta’s tenor voice and accompanying orchestra will warm the soul like no mug of hot chocolate can. It is 10 times better than Justin Bieber’s “Under the Mistletoe.”

Bing CroSBy’S “WhiTe ChriSTmAS”June 1, 1995 (Reissue)Genre: Easy listening“White Christmas” is without a

doubt the epitome of a classic Christmas record. Released in 1945 as “Merry Christmas” and in 1955 with additional songs, it is one of the most popular Christmas records in production, eclipsed only by Elvis Presley’s “Elvis’ Christmas Album,” and a favorite for those who enjoy festive, jazz-infused holiday tunes. “White Christmas” is the ultimate showcase for the singer’s deep,

powerful voice. A mix of Christian and secular, the famous crooner delivers each song with booming earnestness that made it a popular record. While “White Christmas” defines the album, others hits like “Jingle Bells,” “Silver Bells” and “I’ll Be Home for Christmas” make the record well-rounded. Some songs do not have the lasting impact of others and might sound outdated. However, “White Christmas” endures and will continue to be a musical staple of Christmas tradition long after other albums are forgotten.

She & him’S “A Very She & him ChriSTmAS”

October 24, 2011Genre: Pop/Indie rock“A Very She & Him Christmas” is

the album Zooey Deschanel fans have waited for since she sang her way into America’s heart in the movie “Elf.” It is her third collaboration with fellow indie musician Matthew Ward and reached No. 12 on the Billboard 200. The album, even with a few missteps, will get anyone into the holiday spirit for years to come. It takes familiar Christmas classics and rejuvenates them through Deschanel’s plaintive, ’60s-inspired vocals and M. Ward’s electric guitar. Not every song is a hit – Side B is weaker than Side A. While some tunes are destined for annual airplay, others are forgettable. Even the album’s lesser offerings do not detract from the overall strength of the record. Deschanel and M. Ward are a killer combination, harkening back to ’60s folk that makes She & Him so unique. “A Very She & Him Christmas” is a fun, rollicking album that any indie folk rock fan will enjoy for years to come.

December 02, 2011 · Volume 59 · Issue 6

photo by Jacob armstrong

photo by Jessica Bills

As Christmas break looms over the horizon, take advantage of the extra time you have and load your ipod with festive tunes.

“The elder Scrolls V: Skyrim” opens up a vast world to be explored by all of those immersed in it.

You are traveling down the Nordic hillside, headed towards the Whiterun Castle, and a group of bandits spot you and immediately attack. You draw your shield and sword and spring forward.

They scramble at you, prepared to end your journey and take your goods. Suddenly, a chilling shriek echoes in the skies above, stopping everyone dead in their tracks. For a moment, time freezes. Nobody moves – everything is silent. As fast as the moment stops, it rushes back as a dragon crashes down.

Bethesda Game Studios has done it again with “The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim,” the new installment of “The Elder Scrolls” series.

From the very beginning, “Skyrim”

has the all-too-familiar feeling that fans of “The Elder Scrolls” series have come to know well: the feeling of having a vast, open world to explore.

The game stays true to its infamous roots of being a very long game. Craig Lafferty, lead producer, said the main quest alone is in the realm of 30 hours. Add up everything else to do in the game, and over 200 hours could be put into “Skyrim.”

With so much to do, how much is actually fun? What makes “Skyrim” different from “The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion” and every other role-playing game?

One of the most promoted as-pects of the game are the dragons to be encountered. They appear to be an attention-seeking gimmick at first, but it becomes obvious there is much more to it as the game unfolds. They add a new twist to the main story’s depth and intrigue and give the player something new to fear once they realize they pack a punch. They can appear at random,

with no limit to how many appear throughout the story of the game.

Chances are if you were a fan of “Oblivion,” are looking to get into a fan-tastic RPG or just have a need to slay a dragon or two, “Skyrim” has something to offer for everyone.

With updated graphics, “Skyrim” has moments when it simply looks gor-geous, something the game boasts with detailed mountain landscapes, vivid night skies speckled with stars and re-alistic weather effects.

Not only does the game look pret-tier, but new and seasoned players will appreciate the better menu and com-bat systems that make “Skyrim” ap-pear to be a definite upgrade from its predecessor.

Though it appears many changes were made to an already popular se-ries, some things are still reminiscent of previous Bethesda games, namely the non-playable characters and their voice actors. Unnecessary characters seem to have recycled voices and dialogues and

will forget the conversation you had with them seconds earlier.

Another positive tidbit left virtually untouched is player freedom. The game itself plays like a sandbox – the main story quest is always available, but play-ers are never forced to make it their pri-ority. This option allows for side quests, additional leveling up and a chance to better explore.

“Skyrim” offers an action-packed story with familiar gameplay and a vast world to be explored. Anyone looking for a game to play over winter break or even in their free time should give “Skyrim” serious consideration. With holiday sales sure to hit the game and promises of downloadable content, all that is left to do is go out, grab a copy and slay some dragons.

“The Elder Scrolls” soars to new heights

BY raYmon narezassistant featUres editor

Skyrim players live like kings with swords

and dragons galore

4 albums to whet your yuletide appetiteBY BrittneY stoneBUrg

and Jon Beamstaff writer

and food & cUltUre editor

CBU Review

CBU Review

FOOD & CULTURE Page B8December 02, 2011 · Volume 59 · Issue 6

photo by nichelle trulove

photo by Jessica Bills

Cooking with family over the holidays can bring about the best memories.

merry Christmas from The Banner staff!

The holiday season is often marked with delicious, seasonal foods. Whether looking for a way to impress friends and family at home or to spread some on-campus cheer, consider these holiday-inspired dishes:

BreAKFASTGingerbread Pancakes(Recipe courtesy of Food.com)Who says gingerbread is only for

cookies? Enjoy this tasty treat for breakfast.

Yields: approximately 12 pancakesPrep time: 10 minutesCook time: 20 minutes

1 ½ cups flour 1 teaspoon baking powder¼ teaspoon baking soda ¼ teaspoon salt ½ teaspoon ground ginger 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

1 egg1 ¼ cups milk¼ cup molasses3 tablespoons vegetable oil

Combine the dry ingredients in a bowl. In a separate bowl, beat the egg, milk, molasses and oil together. Then, mix in the dry ingredients. Spoon the batter onto a hot, greased skillet and cook until bubbles form, then flip. Pancakes should be light brown.

If you are looking for an alterna-tive to these made-from-scratch flap-jacks, head over to World Market and pick up a package of Baker’s Pantry Gingerbread Pancake Mix. Simply add water, eggs and butter and they are ready to cook and serve.

LunCh or dinnerPanera’s Cream Cheese Potato

Soup(Recipe courtesy of Food.com)

Panera not only has delicious sandwiches but wonderful soups too. Warm up with this recipe on a cold winter day.

Serves: 4-6Prep time: 15 minutes

Cook time: 45 minutes

4 cups chicken broth4 cups peeled and cubed potatoes¼ cup minced onion½ teaspoon white pepper¼ teaspoon ground red pepper1 (8 ounce) package cream cheese,

cut into chunks

In a pot, combine the broth, po-tatoes, onion and spices. Turn to me-dium heat and boil until the potatoes are tender. Using a wooden spoon or masher, smash the potatoes and re-duce the heat to low. Add the cream cheese and heat until it melts, stirring often.

deSSerTFestive Candy Cane Kiss

Centered Brownie Bites(Recipe courtesy of Picky-Palate.

com)Chocolate is a go-to dessert for

many, but by giving it a kiss, it sud-denly gets a Christmas makeover. This easy recipe will delight holiday celebrators of any age.

Serves: 18Prep time: 10 minutesCook time: approx. 20 minutes

1 brownie mix (9 × 13 inch size)Typically calls for 1 egg, ¼ cup oil

and ¼ water, depending on mix 18 candy cane chocolate Kisses1 can chocolate frosting 3 candy canes, crushed

Begin by preheating your oven to 350° and prepare the mix as di-rected. Spray a mini muffin pan or

mini cheesecake pan with cook-ing oil before filling each cup ¾ of the way full with batter. Unwrap the candy cane Kisses and press one into the middle of each cup, leaving just the tip showing. Bake according to package directions. Once baked, let cool before frost-ing. Sprinkle crushed candy canes on top to finish.

BY sarah Jane o’keefe featUres editor

home is where the food isTreat the whole family

to an array of Santa-approved recipes