kingwood parkthe

timesdecember 2013 issue

8 Things to do Over

the Winter Break, pg . 3

WHAT’S IN / WHAT’S OUT FOR 2014, page 13

Holiday Recipes pg. 11 - 12

December2 3 4 5 6 71

8 9 10 11 12 13

15 16 17 18 19 20 21

2322 24 25 26 27 28

29 30 31

Eat a Red Apple Day

Third Eye Blind 8pm HOB

National Roof Over Your Head Day

Wear Brown Shoes Day

ABBA the Concert 8pm JHPA

The Devil Wears Prada 11:59pm WL

Kanye West and Ken-drick Lamar 8pmTC

National Cotton Candy Day

Inernational Childrens day

National Brownie Day

National Pastry Day

Christmas Card Day

Human Rights Day National Noodle Ring Day

Magadeth Fear Factory & Nonpoint

8pm BMC

Ice Cream Day

National Lemon Cupcake Day

National Chocolate Covered Anything

National Maple Syrup Day

Mix 96.5 Week Before Xmas 8pm BMC

Bake Cookies Day

Emblem3 & Cher Lloyd 6:30pmHOB

Jay Z 8pmTC

TC- Toyota CenterHOB- House of BluesJPHA-Jones Hall of the Perfroming ArtsBMC- Bayou Music CenterWL- Warehouse Live

Go Caroling day National Flashlight Day

National Chocolate Day

National Cut Out Snowflakes Day

Card Playing DayFirst Day of Holiday Break

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Sun. mon. tues. wed. thurs.

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Page by Amber Dalton

Sagittarius

You start the month on a good foot. You have seen

some rough times this past month but the suffering has ended. You will

be able to go through the days with no weight on your shoulders. You will

have a test this month so do what you can to pass.

libra

virgo

leo

cancer

taurus

Aries

Gemini

Pisces

Aquarius

scorpio

capricorn

You find yourself trying to get everyone a present in hopes they will give you one of equal or

greater value. Shopping tends to stress you out during the holidays. You will find yourself in a battle with a friend of yours so just hang in there you don’t want to

lose this friend.

An old friend you have lost touch with is reaching

out to you. You two will start taking as the old flame lights back. The more you talk the more you realize you like them more. Take

your time you don’t want to scare them off. Don’t worry

they like you too.

You have been shy around new people but you dont want to be. You

will burst out of your shell and everybody will be

surprised and you will gain more friends. Careful through,

money is tight this holiday seson so spend it wisely.

You will be inspired to create something

to help others. People will tell you that you can’t do it, don’t listen

to them. You can do it and those in need will apreciate it. In return you

will recieve the gift of giving.

You are a very determined person, you go for what you

want no matter what the conssequence. So don’t

be upset when a friend says they dont agree or want to see

you do it.

This month you will finally figure out who you are and you will be

happy about it. However, this month also brings the loss of

something close to you. Stay strong you will make it.

This month will bring a little extra cash. Times have

been hard lately but that is about to change. The company

of a loved one will bring joy to your day and happiness

to your heart.

You will struggle this month, more than last month but, you will make it through. You are strong and very

humble and it will help guide you out of the tunnel.

As the weather gets colder your heart gets warmer. You will give more than

you realize even if you dont get a thank you, you know

its implied and that they appreciate it.

You feel like people don’t see you anymore. So a new haircut and outfits would

help. People will be surprised and start inviting

you places, so keep your calendar available.

Your starting to get a grip on everything that’s happening around you when something

happens and turns your world upsidedown. Everyone will

try their best to help get you through it. Don’t push them away like you normally do!

Let them near, you need them.

Nov. 23- Dec. 21 Dec.22- Jan. 19 Jan. 20- Feb. 19

Feb. 20- March 20 March 21- Apr. 20 Apr. 21- May 20

May 21- June 20 June 21- July 22 July 23- Aug. 22

Aug. 23- Sep. 22Sep. 23- Oct. 22

Ot. 23- Nov. 22

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Page by Amber Dalton

What to Do in the WinterConcerts and activities in the area

Christmas time is here again, and with it comes cold weather, hot drinks, and thankfully, Winter Break. With Winter Break comes plenty of free time. “But what could I possibly do

with all this free time?” you ask. Conveniently, there are plenty of things to do during the break. All of which are relatively close to home. By Eric Barbara

The Nutcracker Suite A Christmas Carol

Elf: The Musical Moody Gardens Festival of lights

A Christmas Carol, originally a book by Charles Dickens,

is another fantastic play to see this Winter. We follow the

story of Ebenezer Scrooge, an old, angry business man, as

he learns the true meaning of the Christmas Season. Mind

you, this story is a bit darker than The Nutcracker Suite.

It touches on many social

issues that were prevalent

in the mid 19th century,

such as homelessness,

greed, and the poor living

conditions of the era. It

runs from November 17 to

December 26.

Based on the hit movie of the same name, Elf will be

hitting stages this Winter. Elf is a modern story, written

only a few years ago. It’s the story of Buddy the Elf, one of

Santa’s workers. Buddy finds out, however, that he isn’t

an ordinary Elf. He’s a Human!

Now Buddy has to track down

his family in New York City. This

show is, of course, very comedic.

If you want to see something

that will give you a few laughs

and keep you entertained, then

go see “Elf: The Musical” this

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The Nutcracker is an instant holiday classic.

Written in 1892, The Nutcracker features many music

and dance numbers including the well known “Dance

of the Sugar Plumb Fairy”. The Nutcracker is a very

whimsical performance,

involving oceans filled with

lemonade, rat kings, fairies,

and of course, the Nutcracker

Prince. The Nutcracker is

being performed by the

Houston Ballet, and runs

from November 29th through

December 29th. photo courtesy: potamusprefers.n

As one of the largest holiday celebrations in the region,

Festival of Lights has become a holiday tradition for

families and groups alike. Located in Moody Gardens in

Galveston, the Festival of Lights draws hundreds of people

every year. The festival has more than 1 million lights

within 100 sound-enhanced animated light displays and

nightly live entertainment. You can also skate around on

the area’s only outdoor

ice skating rink (bring

your own skates or rentals

available for $6), try out

the new Arctic Ice Slide or

take pictures with Santa.

Santa’s WOnderland Trans-Siberian Orchestra

Santa’s Wonderland is one of the biggest Christmas at-

traction in the state of Texas, and exists to preserve & per-

petuate the true meaning and “Spirit” of Christmas. Santa’s

Wonderland is located about six miles south of College

Station, and opens

November 22nd. In-

side of Santa’s won-

derland, there are

plenty of things to

do. You can go on

Horse and Carriage

tours, take a hay-

ride, or just spend

time shopping and eat-

ing at some of the many

unique restaurants. Be

sure to dress warm! It’s

going to be pretty chilly

outside.

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The Trans-Siberian Orchestra is a prog-rock band founded

in 1993. Contrary to their name, they aren’t what most of

us would consider an “orchestra”. Trans-Siberian combines

Christmas and hard rock into one contiguous form. It actu-

ally pulls it off quite well. Trans-Siberian often tells a story

while the concert is going through their songs. While the

message of these stories may be a bit of a stereotypical

Christmas story, its presentation is spectacular. It’s very,

very important to remember that Trans-Siberian is not a

classical Orchestra. Overall, it’s an explosive, loud, and

gripping experience that will more than surely leave you

satisfied.

How The Grinch Stole Christmas

Music will tell the beloved Dr. Seuss tale of the grouchy crea-

ture with a heart “two sizes too small,” his loyal dog Max, and

their encounters with the merry and warm-hearted Whos.

Reginald Smith Jr., guest vocalist from the Houston Grand

Opera Studio, will join The Woodlands High School Chorus

and the musicians of the Houston Symphony to take you

into the world of Whoville.

Handel’s Messiah

Contrary to the Trans-Siberian Orchestra, Handel’s Messi-

ah is an exquisitely classical performance put on this year

by the Houston Symphony. This transcendent, revered

masterpiece consists of many songs, including “Ev’ry Val-

ley Shall Be Exalted,” “O Thou That Tellest Good Tidings to

Zion,” “Rejoice Greatly” and “Hallelujah”. Handel’s Messiah

is a large musi-

cal performance,

containing or-

chestras, choirs,

and soloists. It’s

definitely for

people who can

appreciate long

orchestral pieces.

NBA KICKS OFF & SUPER BOWL DRAWING NEAR

Divisional Round (Jan 11-12):

• Lowest Winning Seed From -Highest Winning Seed From AFC AFC Wild Card Round Wild Card Round

• Kansas City Chiefs (9-0-0) -New England Patriots (7-2-0)

• Lowest Winning Seed From -Highest Winning Seed From NFC NFC Wild Card Round Wild Card Round

• Seattle Seahawks (9-1-0) -New Orleans Saints (7-2-0)

Wild Card Round (Jan 4-5):

• NewYorkJets(5-4-0) -DenverBroncos(8-1-0)• IndianapolisColts(7-3-0) -CincinnatiBengals(6-4-0)

• SanFrancisco49ers(6-3-0) -CarolinaPanthers(7-3-0)• DetroitLions(6-4-0) -PhiladelphiaEagles(6-5-0)

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Conference Championships? (Jan. 19)_______ VS. _______

By Brianna Calhou

• Dallas Mavericks• Denver Nuggets• Golden State Warriors• Houston Rockets• Los Angeles Clippers• Los Angeles Lakers• Memphis Grizzlies• Minnesota Timberwolves• New Orleans Pelicans• Oklahoma City Thunder• Phoenix Suns• Portland Trail Blazers• Sacramento Kings• San Antonio Spurs• Utah Jazz

Western Conference: Eastern Conference:

NBA Preseason has arrived!

(‘13-’14)

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• Atlanta Hawks• Boston Celtics • Brooklyn Nets• Charlotte Bobcats• Chicago Bulls • Cleveland Cavaliers• Detroit Pistons • Indiana Pacers• Miami Heat• Milwaukee Bucks• New York Knicks• Orlando Magic• Philadelphia 76ers

WINTER TRENDS

MONO chrome

Black and white looks out of sight

Lack of color could

not look more sophisticated

and refined than this coming winter.

Add patterned sweaters and cozy

pullovers, and comfort is definetly not

out of the question. Some slick jeans

and leggings give wiggle room for

styling while still providing the obviously

needed warmth for the season. Slip on

some wizard looking boots or sneakers.

Then, put your spin on it! Add bling

if your into that. And of course,

feel free to play with grays, whites

and blacks to really hit the key

elements of the trend.

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By Casey Langford

Platform Shoes

Also known as “creepers, these

shoes are loud and proud and can

be worn with a myriad of pieces.

Chunky Chain-LinksEither in bracelet or necklace form, chunky chain-link jewelry provides boldness to any winter look.

Anchor Bracelets

These light-weight bracelets give

a nautical flair to your outfits.

Long Cardigans

Light-weight and cozy, cardigans have been more “in” now than ever. Specifically with the “tribal” motif, they are sure to give you a touch of warmth and chicness.

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Gift iDeas on the cheap

A Homemade Candy Bag

Craft by the Hands

Fun at the Desk

Beat boredom with a set of small arcade games that fit perfectly at a school or work desk. The collection conatins enjoyable miniature games like pool, basketball, and golf. The set is currently available on sale for $4.99 each at theparagon.com.

No one can go wrong with a gift made themselves! Try drawing a special picture (it doesn’t have to be the Mona Lisa 2.0), writing a heartfelt message or a poem, choreo-graphing a skit or dance, a collection of favor coupons, or even a statement of love. These can be the best gifts given and don’t cost a cent.

A candy jar is quick, simple, and a great way to put a smile on your loved one’s face. A square, lidded jar at Hobby Lobby costs $5.99, acces-sories for personalization averaging $0.99. Large pieces of brand-name candy are sold at various markets such as Target and Kroger, for $1.00 or less, making a special gift with a little bit of everything.

Supply the Toolbox Maybe a friend needs a new set of markers, or your dad needs a new wrench? A simple necessity is always a great gift. It’s a foolproof way to help them out and show them you care.

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By Diana Martin

Old Timer Rythm

Lady’s Spa Kit

An older relative will love the cassette player bag, a convenient backpack that plays classic cassettes when inserted into the slit. A family member or friend who grew up in the mid-20th century will love the nostalgic music they can take anywhere. Available at retroplanet.com.

Girls will love pampering themselves with their own personal spa kit. The Bath and Body Spa Basket includes bath gel, a bubble bath, a bath bomb, bath salts, a wooden massager, and a loofah all neatly packed in a classic wicker basket. Available for purchase at Cherrymoonfarms.com

Retro Sweet Tooth

This dandy machine is perfect for a party. Insert pretzels from any snack bag into the machine, compress the lid for 3 minutes, and a set of soft, salty pretzels will be ready to enjoy. Available at amazon.com for $19.99.

This vintage candy collection contains various brands of classic treats, including candy soda bottles, Dubble Bubble, Fire Balls, candy buttons, and so much more. Give some childhood nostalgia with this gem, for $13.99 at retroplanet.com

Pretzel Party

christmas presents that senD holiDay cheer at loW prices

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DECEMBER SATISFACTIONSTasty good eats for the holidays

When you buy your fruit and veggies from your local store or market it’s best to

store those items in the bag they were brought

in. They end up lasting 3 times longer.

Make sure when storing cheese use a resealable bag. If

your cheese doesn’t have a resealable bag,

it is important to wrap it in foil or a plastic wrap. This

will keep your cheese from drying out.

If you like to buy the big loafs of bread but know

you will only eat half before the expiration

date, take half of the loaf, wrap it up, and

freeze it. This also saves you money so you won’t have to continue buying bread that

your not eating.

1. In a heavy saucepan, combine 2 cups of milk, white chocolate, and cocoa powder. Cook over medium heat, whisking periodically, until the chocolate is melted and the mixture is well combined.

2. Whisk in the pumpkin puree, cinnamon, nutmeg, cardamom, allspice, and ginger. Add the remaining milk, 1 cup at a time, until the desired consistency is reached.

3. If desired, serve topped with whipped cream and a sprinkle of nutmeg. Just be sure not to fill the mugs too full before adding the whipped cream, or you might have some overflow.

pumpkin spice white hot chocolate

Ingredients:4-5 cups whole milk12 ounces white chocolate, chopped4 teaspoons cocoa powder3/4 teaspoon vanilla extract1 cup pure pumpkin puree1 teaspoon cinnamon1/2 teaspoon nutmeg1/4 teaspoon cardamom1/8 teaspoon allspice1/8 teaspoon ground ginger

Ingredients:2 teaspoons butter3 envelopes unflavored gelatin1 cup cold water, divided2 cups sugar1 cup light corn syrup1/8 teaspoon salt1 teaspoon clear vanilla extract

1. Line a 13x9 inch pan with foil and grease the foil with butter; set aside.In a large metal bowl, sprinkle gelatin over 1/2 cup water; set aside. In a large heavy saucepan, combine the sugar, corn syrup, salt and remaining water. Bring to a boil, stirring occasionally. Cook, without stirring, until a candy thermometer reads 240° (soft-ball stage).2. Remove from the heat and gradually add to gelatin. Beat on high speed until mixture is thick and the volume is doubled, about 15 minutes. Beat in vanilla. Spread into prepared pan. Cover and let stand at room temperature for 6 hours or overnight.3. Using foil, lift marshmallows out of pan. With a knife or pizza cutter coated with cooking spray, cut into 1 inch squares. Dip or drizzle marshmallows with toppings if desired; coat with garnishes as desired. Store in an airtight container in a cool dry place. Yield: about 9-1/2 dozen.

Homemade marshmallows

RED VELVET PEPPERMINT SWIRL BROWNIES

When storing food, most people put them in airtight

containers and push it to the back of the refrigerator.

Check out these tips to help you stop these bad

habits!

Tip Strip

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By Awa McCarter

Ingredients:Vegetable oil cooking spray, for pan12 graham crackers, finely ground (1½ cups)¾ cup plus 3 tablespoons sugar2 ounces (4 tablespoons) unsalted butter, melted1 pound cream cheese, room temperature2 large eggs1 large egg yolk¾ cup eggnog1 tablespoon plus 1½ teaspoons all-purpose flour1 tablespoon plus 1 teaspoon brandy1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract½ teaspoon freshly grated nutmeg, plus more for dusting¼ teaspoon salt

Eggnog Cheesecake Bars

1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Coat a 9 inch square baking pan with cooking spray. Stir together graham crackers, 3 tablespoons sugar, and the melted butter. Press into bottom of pan. Bake until crust is just brown around the edges, 12 to 15 minutes. Let cool.2. Meanwhile, beat cream cheese with a mixer on medium speed until fluffy, about 2 minutes. Add the remaining ¾ cup sugar, the eggs, yolk, eggnog, flour, brandy, vanilla, nutmeg, and salt; beat until smooth. Pour filling over crust. Set pan in a roasting pan, and add enough hot water to come halfway up sides of baking pan. Bake until just set, 40 to 45 minutes. Remove baking pan from water bath, and transfer to a wire rack. Let cool slightly, about 30 minutes. Refrigerate for at least 3 hours or overnight.3. Cut into 1½ -by 3 inch bars. Lightly dust tops of bars with freshly grated nutmeg just before serving.

RED VELVET PEPPERMINT SWIRL BROWNIES

Ingredients:1 (4-oz.) bittersweet chocolate baking bar, chopped3/4 cup butter 2 1/4 cups sugar, divided 4 large eggs 1 (1-oz.) bottle red liquid food coloring1/4 teaspoon peppermint extract2 teaspoons vanilla extract, divided 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour 1/8 teaspoon salt1/2 (8-oz.) package cream cheese, softened 2 egg whites 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour

1. Preheat oven to 350°. Line bottom and sides of a 13x9 inch pan with

aluminum foil, allowing 2 to 3 inches to extend over sides; lightly grease foil.

2. Microwave chocolate and butter in a large microwave-safe bowl at HIGH

1 1/2 to 2 minutes or until melted and smooth, stirring at 30 second intervals.

Whisk in 2 cups sugar. Add eggs, 1 at a time, whisking just until blended after

each addition. Add food coloring, peppermint extract, and 1 tsp. vanilla.

Gently stir in 1 1/2 cups flour and 1/8 tsp. salt. Pour batter into prepared pan.

3. Beat cream cheese and remaining 1/4 cup sugar at medium speed with

an electric mixer until fluffy. Add egg whites and remaining 1 tsp. vanilla,

and beat until blended. Stir in 2 Tbsp. flour until smooth. Drop cream cheese

mixture by heaping tablespoonfuls over batter in pan; gently swirl with a

knife.

4. Bake at 350° for 30 to 32 minutes or until a wooden pick inserted in center

comes out with a few moist crumbs. Cool completely in pan on a wire rack

(about 1 hour). Lift brownies from pan, using foil sides as handles. Gently

remove foil; cut brownies into squares.

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By Awa McCarter

What’s

IN?

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new

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PentatonixThis acapella quintet made

famous by the Sing Off is

destined to become the

next big thing in music.

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Big SweatersNot only will you be comfortable and warm this season, but oversized sweaters are a thing nowadays.

PunsPuns are hot. The more groans and complaints you receive the better your pun is. That means they enjoyed your punch line.

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ll Taco BellTaco Bell embraces how terrible it is for you and people keep coming back for it. We could all learn a lesson from it.

Egg NogIt’s December AKA time to drink egg nog! Let’s face it, if egg nog was in stores all year long it would still be in.

The Walking DeadEveryone watches this show. It’s near impos-sible to escape the chatter. People are into zombies, so it’s no surprise that this show is so popular.

Me

By Eva May Cornell

What’sOUT?

Short ShortsNot only is it winter, but no one wants to see all of that.

memesIn reality, internet memes have been dead for around two years, but a lot of people are not aware of this. You’re welcome.

GleeLet’s face it Glee was doomed to be out the second they decided to con-tinue after the original cast graduated. How did they think they could con-tinue the story line?

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FacebookAny website that your mother is on isn’t cool anymore. What are you supposed to do besides play weird games anyway?Justin Bieber

There isn’t much to say on the subject of the biebs. He is out of control. All you ever hear about is the latest scandal Justin has stupidly pulled off. Does he even make music anymore? Look at this picture and tell me this kid is relevant.

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McDonaldsThey tried to be healthy which really messed them up. What’s the point of McDonalds if you’re not getting a million calories per serving?

Photo courtesy of mcdonalds

the kingwood park timesis brought to you by:

Orianne Elliott, Editor-In-Chief

Diana Martin, Copy Editor

Eva May Cornell

Awa McCarter

Briana Calhoun

Eric Barbara

Amber Dalton

Casey Langford

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Melanie Bradshaw, Advisor