the christmas argus

the christmas argus
12 . 05 . 13
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Page 4 & 5- Gifts
Page 3- DI
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Page 8 & 9- Letters
To Santa
Page 12Entertainment
Page 14Christmas
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Trivia
Page 10 &
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Page 15Decorati
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The Argus
Feature
Lacey Bach
Reporter
Becca Snyder
Feature Editor
Christmas Trees
Christmas Treats
Cooking and baking is a requirement
for Christmas. Christmas dinner is
usually composed of
Thanksgiving food, like
turkey and casserole,
but you can choose ham
if you don’t want turkey.
Cookies are baked more
than any other treat
during the holidays.
During Christmas, the
two types of cookies
that everyone wants are sugar and
gingerbread. Gingerbread cookies can
be cut into silhouettes of people and
decorated to represent them. These
simple, yet fun works of art are called
gingerbread men. The
cookies live in a house
made from gingerbread as
well as sugar, gumdrops,
chocolate and candy canes.
This is the Gingerbread
house. If it seems too
complicated
for
you,
you don’t have to make
a house. Gingerbread is
much more sweet and tasty than sugar
cookies, making it a must-have for the
most wonderful time of the year.
Gift Wrapping
Christmas Pickle
Wrapping and opening presents
are other classics. It’s also a big
stress factor. People will search and
search for a gift to give to a family
member or friend. They, or should
I say we, don’t know what we are
going to get everyone this year and
are always afraid they may not like
the present we give them. Then we
have to use wrapping paper, tape and
scissors to conceal it. You can buy
a tool-box for your father, crafting
supplies for your mother, a sport
jersey for your boyfriend, jewelry for
your girlfriend. Whoever your friend
is, boy or girl, get them something
you know they’ll like.
An ancient symbol of life in
the middle of winter was the
evergreen tree. Romans decorated
their houses with branches from
evergreens during the New Year.
Northern Europeans cut and
planted them inside boxes in their
house.
Many Christians were hostile to
this practice and condemned the
pagans who brought evergreen
Santa Claus
Santa Claus, Jolly Old Saint Nick
or Father Christmas: whatever you
want to call him, he is one of the
main symbols of Christmas. He is
the re-imagination of Saint Nicholas,
The Christmas pickle is an
odd tradition. On Christmas Eve,
parents hide a pickle ornament on
the tree. In the morning, the child
who finds the ornament on the
tree first gets a special gift. There
aren’t very many people who have
even heard of this tradition which
is probably why you won’t see a
pickle in your tree anywhere.
trees into their house during the
winter solstice. The first use of
the Christmas tree dates back to
the 1500’s. While many believe
they originated in Germany,
others believe it was Latvia. A
few individuals even believe in the
legend that St. Boniface created the
tradition. It would be some time
before the tree became a Christmas
symbol.
Tree decorating is a classic
tradition. Everyone gets either a
real tree or an artificial tree. They
finish the task by wrapping LED
lights around the tree. Artificial
trees come in many colors.
According to the classic movie,
“Santa Claus is Coming to
Town,” Kris Kringle used
children’s stockings to
store their presents without
being caught. In reality, the
tradition of the stocking
began in a European
country. Children used one
of their everyday socks
until special socks were
created for this purpose. The stocking
is associated with the Scandinavian
figure, Odin. Children would place
a chocolate taste instead of the usual
peppermint. The recipe
for these treats was
published in 1844. It
didn’t become associated
with Christmas until
1874, and in 1882, people
began hanging them
onto their Christmas
trees. You may find little
peppermints anytime, but
the candy cane will only
appear around Christmas time. So
enjoy them while they last!
2
Giving gifts at Christmas is a
must, but what to give? Don’t
think that just because you don’t
have money or time that you
shouldn’t give gifts. Christmas
gift ideas are everywhere,
and some are fairly easy to do
yourself.
Things to be watchful for
while doing DIY projects
is materials you will need,
how much time it will take
and skills you will need to
complete the job. Sometimes
finding materials is a hard task
to accomplish, therefore make
sure there is a minimal list. If
you have a lot of time on your
hands, you could do a more
lengthy project. The skills that
are needed in some projects, at
times, are more difficult to do
than others. Sewing, crocheting,
cross stitching and knitting take
time to learn; don’t try to learn
these skills at the last minute.
The options for DIY gifts are
endless; try Pinterest for ideas.
Googling DIY gift ideas could
also be helpful.
Walmart, Crafts 2000 and
Joann’s Fabrics are good places
to look for supplies. Shop
around and get the best quality
for the lowest price.
Cards can also be considered
DIY projects for Christmas.
Homemade cards are easy to
make and not that costly to
create. Don’t be afraid to make
your own cards because they
will be different than everyone
else’s.
Overall, don’t skip out on gift
giving this holiday season; you
may make someone’s day.
DIY: T-Shirt Pillow
an elderly Christian priest. He was a
good man who often gave gifts to
children and to the poor. He wore
a red and gold robe and a crown
symbolizing the church.
Overtime, he would be reimagined as a fat, jolly old man
with a white beard and a pointy hat.
He gives presents to boys and girls
around the world only if they were
good. Remember kids, be nice this
year!
Stockings
Candy Canes
Candy canes are a special treat
that
will
only
make
an
appearance
during
Christmas time. Shaped
like a cane, hence the name,
these adorable and lovely
sweets are traditionally
peppermint flavored. The
traditional design for candy
canes are red and white
stripes. Hershey’s candy
canes are white with thin
green and thick, dark brown stripes
twirling around them, and they have
Christmas: it is the most celebrated
holiday in the world. It produces a lot
of money for the economy, creates
stress for citizens who are preparing
to celebrate and is a joyous time for
children. Like all holidays around the
world, it has many traditions that come
with it. Each of these traditions are
requirements, except one that is very
unique. Few people have even heard
of this tradition. Have you heard of the
Christmas pickle?
their boots filled with sugar, straw or
carrots, near the chimney for
Odin’s flying horse, Sleipnir,
to eat. Odin would reward the
children with gifts or candy.
This practice survived in
Germany, Belgium and the
Netherlands after Christianity
and Saint Nicholas. Today,
stockings come in many
different colors and styles.
You can buy them from the store
downtown or make one.
Level of Difficulty:
Hard
Materials:
1. Small T-Shirt
2. Stuffing
3. Sewing machine
4. Pins
5. Thread
6. Scissors
7. Pin cushion
8. Seam ripper
Skills needed:
Basic sewing and
patience
Level of Difficulty:
DIY: Heart Attack
Easy
Materials:
1. Small cardboard box
2. Twenty to thirty
different colored and
sized hearts
3. Four bigger hearts
4. Scissors
5. Glue
6. Pen
Skills needed:
Readable handwriting
and creativity
1. Pick a T–shirt and flip it inside–out.
2. Fold the bottom of the shirt to the size of the
pillow you would like.
3. Pin the bottom and the sleeves of the shirt.
4. Sew the shirt along the pins.
5. Flip the shirt to the right side.
6. Fill the shirt with stuffing to the fullness
that you want.
7. Finally, sew the neck and cut all of the
extra strings.
This gift can literally
be for anyone. Be
creative and buy
shirts that match
the recipient’s
personality or
interests.
1. Make all of the hearts and write something
that you love about the person you are giving
the gift.
2. Place the four larger hearts on the sides of the
cardboard box.
3. Open the box and place the hearts inside.
This gift can be
given to the person
as it is. You can also
give this gift to that
special someone or a
best friend.
http://www.thehousethatlarsbuilt.com/2012/02/valentinesheart-attack-take-3.html
Other DIY options
1. Personalized message plates
2. Fabric covered books
3. Infinity scarves
4. Hollow book safes
5. Two-pocket tie wristlet
6. Old book box
7. Gift card holders
8. Men’s rope bracelets
9. Tiny polaroid magnets
10. Ombre dropcloth picnic blankets
11. Skinny ties
12. Painted camera strap
13. Personalized car kits
14. Christmas pillows
http://www.pinterest.com/soapdeligirl/unique-diychristmas-gift-ideas/
http://list25.com/25-great-do-it-yourself-christmasgifts/2/
http://asubtlerevelry.com/50-diy-christmas-gifts
3
The Argus
Feature
How to Wrap a Gift
Kelsey Kirkpatrick
Opinion Editor
Becca Snyder
Feature Editor
We understand that finding
the perfect gift can be stressful,
so don’t worry; we’re here to
help.
First off, don’t worry about
getting everyone something. If
you have a big group of friends,
try drawing names to see who
will give whom a present. Don’t
stress yourself out about buying
20 gifts; simplify as much as
possible.
If you happen to have a lot of
time on your hands, you could
try hand-making your gifts. See
Christmas DIY, pg. 3.
Not sure what your friends
want? We are sure that whatever
you give them, they will love.
Just in case you don’t like that
answer, shop around at various
places. You’d be amazed at
the enlightenment that you will
receive just by looking.
Girls, we understand that
buying for boys can be a tough
decision to make. If you have
a boyfriend, you can go two
ways with your gift; sentimental
or casual. Sentimental gifts
are things such as home-made
cards expressing your love to
him or a framed picture of the
two of you. Casual gifts would
be things such as a jersey from
his favorite team, a watch or his
favorite candy.
Boys, you have it a little bit
easier, but not by much. If you
are looking for something for
your girlfriend think the same
way, sentimental or casual.
Sentimental gifts for girls are
anything that expresses how
you feel, such as in a card or a
special date to her favorite sit–
down restaurant. Casual gifts
for girls are scarves, gift cards
or hair accessories. A quick tip
would be not to get her clothes
unless you are certain that she
will love them.
Places to Shop for gifts
Parkersburg
Pier 1 Imports
WalMart
Grand Central Mall
Kohls
T. J. Maxx
Big Lots
Mulberry Lane
Ollie’s Bargain Outlet
Gabriel Brothers
CVS
Marietta
Wal-Mart
KMart
Peebles
Big Lots
Cato’s
CVS
Hallmark
Focus
Twisted Sisters Boutique
Schafer Leather
Charleston
Charleston Town Center
Kohl’s
Marshall’s
T. J. Maxx
Home Goods
Best Buy
Dick’s Sporting Goods
Pier 1 Imports
Fashion Bug
Macy’s
Books-a-Million
Target
Ultra
Sephora
Starbucks
New York & Company
dELiA*s
Gifts for Her
Girlfriend
Friend
Jewelry (rings, earrings, bracelets,
necklaces)
Her favorite movie or CD, that she
doesn’t already have
Picture of you two or a group of friends
in a frame
Food is always an option
Picture of you and her in a nice frame
You will need:
You’ll need clear
tape.
You will need to
find a box to stick
your gift item in to
wrap.
Obviously wrapping Bows and ribbon top
paper is a must. Get off a gift, literally.
wrapping paper that
fits the person’s
personality.
1.
Perfume or hand sanitizer
Flowers (real if you can find them)
Accessories (hair bows, jewelry)
Scissors are an
essential to gift
wrapping.
Make
sure you have good
scissors; it’s hard
to cut the wrapping
paper with rusty
old ones.
The first step is to get the box
and lay it on the wrapping
paper facing down.
6.
Her favorite book, movie, or CD
Anything Vera Bradley (try to pick a
pattern that she may already have)
Overall, pick an item that means something to you both as a couple. It could
be something funny from an inside joke
or sentimental.
Tickets to a movie or sporting event
Think of something that she may have
mentioned of yours that she likes and
try to find the object in a store.
2.
3.
Gifts for Him
Boyfriend
Friend
Picture of the two of you in a frame
Hunting supplies (if he hunts)
Clothes (something that he needs or you
think would look nice on him)
Food is always a good option.
Tickets to his favorite sporting event
(possibly to a team he has never seen
play live)
Cologne
Try to be as sentimental or humerous as
he is. Some guys don’t like the sentimental stuff. If you aren’t that way with
him most of the time, maybe he would
enjoy something like that for Christmas.
Something that is funny is always an
option. If you two have an inside joke,
get something that will make him laugh
when he sees it. When saying that food
is always an option, sometimes it is the
best option; especially for guys.
Are you buying
gifts for your
friends this
Christmas?
*137 polled
4
Then, you adjust the box to
where the wrapping paper
edge can fold over to fit half
the box.
Next, you take the wrapping
paper from the roll and
overlap it. Make sure there
isn’t any box showing.
7.
8.
4.
Cut the wrapping paper to the
correct measurement. Take the
scissors, open them and cut
straight up without closing
the scissors. Try to cut in a
straight line.
9.
5.
Cut the wrapping paper and
take one side and tape it to
the box. Then take the other
side and overlap it and tape
it. Make sure it’s taped and
pulled tight.
10.
Hat (something that he would wear)
A movie or CD that he doesn’t already
own make a nice gift.
Stocking Stuffers
Now you can start on the
ends. If you think there is
too much extra wrapping
paper, cut a little off. Take
the ends and push them
down.
Take one side of the end
and fold it inward into a
triangle shape.
Do the same thing for the
other side of the end. Tape
them down.
Take the traingle and bring
it foward to the bottom of
the wrapped gift and tape
it.
Once the wrapping is
completed, add a bow or
some ribbon to make it
stylish. Another helpful
tool is the name tag.
Guys
fingernail polish in it; you can
never go wrong with sparkles.
Hats–A guy can never have
too many snapbacks.
Either
CD/DVDs–Find out their favorite artist and buy a CD.
Socks/Mittens–Everybody needs more socks and gloves during
the winter time.
Tickets–Give them a ticket to their favorite band or sports team.
Books–Put the newest edition of their favorite series in their
stocking.
Gum/Candy–Almost all kids expect candy at Christmas.
Photos–If you can find a small enough frame, add your favorite
picture of you and your friend.
You need to personalize the stockings to match the person it belongs
to. Get things you think that person would need and like. A main
gift for girls is jewelry and lotion, while boys enjoy sport-related
gifts. If you can’t think of anything to stuff in a stocking, gift cards
are always a safe bet. Buy a gift card to the person’s favorite store
or restaurant. If you don’t know the stores or restaurants they like,
get a gas card. Everyone needs gas. Make sure to get small gifts
that will actually fit in the stocking.
What is the best
Christmas present that
you have ever received?
“My favorite Christmas present
was a mountain bike.”
-Jasmin Parrish“I got an electric scooter one
year for Christmas.”
-Jack Hughes-
The Story Behind Gifts
We receive and give gifts, but do we know how the tradition started? The wisemen traveled a long
distance to take gifts to Jesus; it was a tradition that ambassadors would give gifts to royalty. The
Wisemen, also called Magi, gave Joseph and Mary three gifts for their son. The three gifts were gold,
frankincense and myrhh. The gifts had a deeper meaning and symbolized something about Jesus.
The gold symbolized His royalty. The frankincense stood for how divine He was, and the myrhh
represented His morality. The biggest gift, though, was the fact that after they gave Mary and Joseph
the gifts, they started worshipping Jesus.
A person shouldn’t buy a gift just to buy a gift; the gift should have meaning. Christmas isn’t
about all the fancy gifts you received. It’s about giving gifts to represent how much someone means
to you. Don’t get wrapped up in the artificial Christmas buying holidays; remember the true reason
for the season.
*http://www.spiritualliving360.com/index.php/
meaning-behind-the-gifts-of-the-wise-men-22467/
Yes (39.5%) No (21%)
Girls
Bath and Body Works Products– Hunting Accessories–
If you are buying for
Lotions and car fresheners are a
a country boy, hunting
safe gift for any gal.
accessories are a must.
Jewelry–Almost every girl wears
Games–There are some
jewelry, just make sure to get it
new X-Box games that your
personalized.
guy would love to have.
Scarf–A girl can never have too
Sports Equipment–
many cute scarves.
Nothing makes an athlete
Makeup–Stick her favorite brand more happy than a new
of makeup in her stocking.
baseball glove or new
Nike Elite socks.
Fingernail Polish–Put a sparkly
Not sure
(39.5%)
Gift Giving Facts
Women give Christmas gifts to more people than do
men. The average difference is 12.5 versus 8.
Women devote more time to selecting the appropriate
gift, 2.4 hours per recipient versus 2.1 hours for male gift
shoppers.
Women are more successful in finding desired gifts. Ten
percent of women’s gifts were returned to the shop, as
opposed to 16 per cent for gifts given by men.
-See more at: http://marginalrevolution.com/marginalrevolution/2004/01/facts_about_gif.html#sthash.HryAhEvd.dpuf
5
The Argus
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Generated by http://www.opensky.ca/~jdhildeb/software/sudokugen/ on Tue Nov 5 19:25:20 2013 GMT. Enjoy!
Lydia Watson
Editor
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Puzzle 1 (Medium, difficulty rating 0.48)
6
7
Dots
The Argus
News
Dear Santa,
This year, I received a 2001 Ford Mustang to drive
back and forth to school. I am also able to use the
car to commute between special activities, such
as spending time with friends. The plan is that I work
to help pay my car off in the summertime, and if I
keep my grades at an outstanding level, then I
will permanently receive the car as a graduation
present. Since I intend to keep my grades up and
work, I want to begin upgrading my car. First off, I
would like a cold air intake. I would also like some
money of my own to buy audio equipment for the
car. Lastly, I would like a programmer to tune the
performance of the car. I would really appreciate it
if you would get these for me.
Stay cool,
Jamie Maze
Dear Santa,
I don’t want a lot this year. All I want is to enjoy
the joyous Christmas Spirit with my family as I do each
year. Thank you for spreading that joy around the
world each year to everyone.
Sincerely,
Amber R. Elliott
Dear Santa,
For many years now, I have asked for very simple
gifts; that is going to change this year. I hope that
you will read all of my requests with an open mind,
and remember that I have been extremely good
this past year. I would like around $40,000 to pay for
my college tuition for all four years; right now it isn’t
looking too promising. I know, but just stay with me
here. I would also like either a car or a teleportation
system to get me from college to my beautiful
home safely. I would like a laptop so that I may do
my school work at college to the best of my ability.
That is all. I would love you forever if you granted my
requests, because I personally know that you value
ones academic success. Tell Mrs. Claus hello on my
behalf; have a safe flight.
Thank you,
Becca Snyder
Dear Santa Claus,
I wish all the Army men and women
could come home for Christmas
because if they do not get to be with
their family, they will be missed. If they
can’t come home, please let them be
safe. I wish I could see my real dad for
Christmas, even though he is in Heaven.
I would like to be able to see him just
one more time. There are several family
members I would like to say goodbye
to, if you could help me with that. Under
my tree, I just want presents; it doesn’t
really matter what. I’d like Xbox games
and a Straight Talk cell phone. I need
a new gun for deer hunting, and some
camouflage clothes might be nice too.
My 4-wheeler needs new tires. I am
trying to get my driver’s license, so you
could fix my truck. Can we please have
some snow for Christmas? If you got me
a new pair of coveralls, I could wear
them in the cold. I would like to have a
bigger full bed so I don’t roll out. I wish it
was warmer when it snowed. I need new
socks, underwear and gloves. If some
of your elves could finish putting up the
firewood for my neighbor, it would be
nice! Thanks for all your help!
On the Nice List,
Leonard Collins
Dear Santa,
I don’t want much this year. All I really
want is two pairs of American Eagle
jeans, a CHI straightener and a few
phone covers. My little brother really
wants a lot more stuff so pack up your
sleigh for him and the rest of the kids.
Your friend,
Brianna Wilson
Dear Santa,
Every year I wait up for you with cookies,
only to be disappointed when you wait
until I fall asleep. Well, not this year. I’ve
placed traps in various locations in my
house, for warning. I dare you to stop in. I
WILL catch you. Your move.
Sincerely,
Carlos Gutierrez
1
8
Dear Santa,
There are many things
that I want, but I don’t
need them. Some things
that I want, I need. I
don’t always get what I
want or need because I
have three other siblings;
they need things more
than I do. This Christmas
I want them to get what
they need. I don’t want
much this year, maybe
some jeans and a
letterman’s jacket.
Sincerely,
Cheyenne Girard
Dear Santa,
Before I get started on my wish
list I would like for you to know that I
have a bone to pick with you. When
I was little, I was always told you had
a fluffy white beard and smelled like
cookies. I was deceived. Just imagine
my excitement as I sat in my car seat
all dressed up to come sit on your lap
at the mall. I couldn’t wait to finally
meet you and tell you what a good
girl I had been. When I arrived to your
area of the mall, I stood in line waiting
with my excitement building. After a
long wait I made my way to the front.
This was the very moment when all
of my excitement turned into shock
and dismay. You were definitely not
what I had pictured in my mind.
Your beard was not white and fluffy;
instead it looked wiry and yellow!
You did not smell like cookies at all; it
was more like B.O. and bad breath.
Just a suggestion, you might want
to try eating one of those tiny candy
canes you hand out to each kid. I
was so disappointed with you that I
had a hard time even remembering
what I wanted for Christmas. I’m sure
a lot of my friends can relate to this
exact experience. Due to my awful
experience, you will not be seeing
me this year. I have decided to use
a different approach; so, I am writing
you this letter. For Christmas I would
ilke a few new outfits and matching
shoes. I wouldn’t mind getting some
jewelry and perfume as well. One last
thing, I will be leaving you cookies
and milk. (Please try not to make as
big of a mess as you did last year.)
Sincerely,
Kendra Becker
Hey Dude,
I would ask you to bring me
something for Christmas, but I do not
need handouts. Just kidding! I’d like a
PlayStation 4, but if that’s not possible,
it’s okay.
Sincerely,
Colton Barnhart
Dear Santa,
I would like to thank you for delivering
all the presents to the little boys and girls
around the world. However, there is one
boy that has been especially bad this
year. Dylan Hupp is the biggest bully at
St. Marys High School. He is a very mean
person. I just ask that you don’t let his
wish come true. That is my very special
wish this Christmas season. Thank you
very much kind sir. (P.S. Santa, just kidding
about Dylan, but don’t put him too high
on the nice list!)
Your great friend,
Tony Drazba
Dear Santa Claus,
I am writing to ask you for a new My
Little Pony toy. My mommy said that
I deserve one because I’ve been a
really good boy this year. I will also
make sure to leave out some milk
and cookies.
Love,
Sam Kincaid
Dear Santa,
I don’t ask for much. Just a white
Christmas and maybe a few items.
Sincerely,
Jared Nichols
Dear Santa,
All I want for Christmas is a pony
and Xbox One.
Yours truly!
Mike Stout
Dear Santa Claus,
Instead of receiving this year, I’m
going to give. It’s better to give than to
receive, am I right? I’ve had fourteen
gift-filled Christmases, while some
have had none. I consider myself
lucky. So, Santa all I want is to take
your place this year for some. I want
to make a difference in their lives, like
you’ve done mine and many other
little children. It’s time for me to give
back for what I have received.
Your friend,
Allison Elliott
Dear Santa,
Even though I haven’t seen you
lately, and the real significant person
at Christmas is Jesus, I would like to
wish for a few things. First, I wish for
a new Bugatti. In addition, I want a
girlfriend, but that may be too much
to ask for. That is all.
Sincerely,
Dylan Hupp
Dear Santa,
There are so many wonderful things
I would like to have for Christmas.
However, there is one that I simply
must have. I would like to have a time
machine so I could go back and fix
all of my mistakes that I have made.
While this is a tall order, I would also
like to have a Ferrari with a big red
bow on top. I know I’m pressing my
luck, but I have one last request for
you Santa. I want world peace,
because world peace is what’s really
important.
Sincerely,
Trent Barnhart
Dear Santa,
This Christmas is a tad different.
The people around me seem to
have bitter feelings for a wondrous
occasion that happens only once a
year. I only wish that they could see
the magic that a winter snow offers,
the joy of Christmas treats at the dinner
table, not the dread of shopping and
the association of dreary memories
that can turn a holiday into a horrible
day. If those around me could view
the world through my eyes, then I
would be most content this Christmas
season.
Warm regards,
Dalton Wigal
Dear Santa,
How have you been? How are
your reindeer? I have been a very
good good girl this year. I know
you’re wondering about what this
girl wants for Christmas. You are
thinking that it’s money or a car
but no, I don’t want any of those
things. All I want for Christmas is
to help others more by joining in
community service projects. Also,
I want to improve my technique
in dance and to keep growing as
a dancer. Merry Christmas!
Sincerely,
Hila Morrell
Dear Santa Claus,
I would like new
Lebron
shoes.
I
would like a new
4-10 shotgun for
deer
hunting.
I
wish I could get to
see Lebron James
at
a
basketball
game and get his
autograph. I need to
see the Miami Heat
play in the NBA finals.
Sincerely,
Jeremy Jones
Dear Santa,
How is the North Pole? It’s starting to get cold here in St.
Marys, but I’m sure you already know that. I want some
shoes and some clothes for Christmas. Don’t overwork the
elves on me. Get somebody else something extra this year.
I’m feeling generous. Maybe give my little brother and
sister something that they really want. So anyway, tell the
elves and reindeer that I hope they stay well and have no
complications this Christmas.
Yours truly,
Jessy Moore
Dear Santa,
I really want a band loom.
Also, a new purse. I would like to
have a pair of high heels and a
matching dress. It would be nice
to have my family together with
me on Christmas. I would like to
have some lip-gloss and a winter
coat. It would be great if I could
get some gum and money. A
computer would help me keep in
touch with my friends and family.
I would like to have pencils for
school, false nails, a necklace and
earrings for prom.
Sincerely,
Stacey Collins
Dearest Santa,
All I desire for Christmas this year is for each
student at SMHS to reach out and show kindness to
someone, consciously, that they don’t particularly
know all that well. Because, then the true spirit of
Christmas that you stand for would be alive again.
Love,
Abigale Gellner
Dear Santa,
For Christmas I want
my car to stay in good
condition. My car is in
very good condition,
and I’d love for it to
stay that way. It really
is a privilege to have
a car and for it to be
in great condition.
I just want some
reassurance that it will
stay that way. I’d just
like to thank you in
advance.
From,
Brandon George
Dear Santa,
I don’t know if you exist or not, but I hope you
do. Well, I mean I do know that you don’t exist,
at least not at the North Pole. But do I really
know? I don’t know if I do know anymore, but I
wish I did.
Sincerely yours,
Alec Marshall.
Dear Santa,
How is it going up there big guy? I hope the elves and reindeer are not giving you too much grief about the sleigh this year. I am writing
because I have a big request from you. I am sure you get thousands of these letters, but mine is most likely a little more unique. I hope my
request will be granted and you have all those mystical powers.
First, I would like an AR-15 from you, but I want it custom built. I would like a twenty-inch Delta PRI threaded barrel for range and accuracy. I
would also like a nineteen-inch free float Daniel Defense hand guard. I would enjoy a set of M.O.E. rail covers to get rid of any vacant areas on
the hand guard. I would like eleven olive drag green P-Mags. Along with that I would like a Mag-Pull buffer tube and collapsible stock. I would
also appreciate a Colt upper and lower receiver.
Also, I would like some accessories to increase performance and ease of use. I would like a 4x30 zoom Trigicon scope with a holographic built
in on top. I would like eleven 5.56 Mag-Pull magazine pulls in black. For the hand guard I want an olive drag green target illuminator mounted
on the top as far down the hand guard as it will go. On the left side, I want an LED flashlight mounted as far up as it will go also. On the bottom,
I would like a collapsible fore grip with textured rubber finger grooves for maximum comfort.
This concludes my wishes for this coming holiday season. I hope you will consider them when you are packing up for the big trip you annually
make. Try not to let any presents fall out of the sleigh this year, and be safe. What would millions of small children do if you hurt yourself? Happy
holidays to you Santa, and watch out for the Middle East.
Sincerely,
Matthew Stillson
1
9
The Argus
The Argus
Tis the
season to be
giving
Volunteers
Light the Way
ChristmasLights
he core of a community is supported
through the volunteer work of its
citizens. Without the effort and time
of volunteers, many of the activities
held in the town would be impossible.
We take many of the things done by
volunteers for granted and rarely take
the time to stop and think about all the
hard work that others have put into these
events. Volunteering can be as simple as
donating a can of soup, to coordinating
an event for underprivileged children.
There are community service projects to
fit anyone’s desires or time frames.
Whether you realize it or not, you
are benefitting from community service
every day. Without our athletic boosters,
we would not be able to purchase sports
equipment or pay for transportation
or travel expenses. You would have
to pay to play a sport and for many
families this would be a burden. All the
perks of high school take the efforts of
5
1
Ways to
give back
Parkersburg City Park displays an array of animated and still holiday
lights. The light displays are produced by various business and individuals
throughout the community. The lights are lit from 6-10 p.m. every night
through the holiday season
for visitors to enjoy. City
Park is located on 350
Seventh St, Parkersburg.
Admission cost per vehicle
is by donation only. Come
out and support your
neighboring community
and experience holiday
cheer with the Christmas
Lights at Parkersburg City
Park.
While in Parkersburg, you
could also check out the lights in Vienna’s Jackson Park and Belpre’s
Civitan Park.
Pick a child from the Angel Tree
Donate canned food to a food pantry
4
Put your loose pocket change in a Red
Kettle
5
Send a shoe box to underprivileged children
The Winter Festival of Lights has delighted visitors of all ages
at Oglebay Park since 1985. The light show is one of the nation’s
largest,
covering
more than 300 acres
over a six-mile drive
throughout the resort.
The light show starts
Nov. 8, and they will
be turned off Jan.
5.
In 2008, all of
the displays switched
to LED lighting to
improve the color and
duration of the lights.
Oglebay, and the
Winter Festival of Lights, is located four miles from I-70 at Exit 2A.
A per car donation is requested and is valid for the whole season.
Take a look for yourself at one of the countries best light shows.
Red Kettle
10
Q:
A:
How do you give
back to your
community?
“I put my pocket change in the
red kettles at the mall.”
- Katie Billeter
“I volunteer at any high school
event that needs my help.”
- Kyle Taylor
Red Kettles are charity events held
by the Salvation Army. They are located
outside of many local businesses where
volunteers ring bells to catch your
attention. Donating large amounts of
money or simply pocket change can
make a large difference in the lives of
many people. The money donated goes
towards one of the many projects the
Salvation Army conducts. The Salvation
Army helps with adult rehabilitation,
veterans affairs, prison ministries, the
elderly, missing persons, child hunger
relief, housing for homeless children and
much more. There are Salvation Army
services within the community and
the proceeds donated will help others
within the area. If you wish to donate
to a Red Kettle you can do so at one of
your local businesses or online at www.
onlineredkettle.org.
Angel Tree
ChristmasLights
Donate used items to your local Good Will
3
ChristmasLights
Parkersburg City Park
2
volunteers. In order to hold Homecoming
and prom, people have to painstakingly
plan the event, take up donations, hold
fundraisers and decorate for the event.
By volunteering, you are contributing
to your community and giving back to
others who have helped you.
Around Christmas time, community
service is at its peak. Most organizations
and groups do some sort of service
project throughout the month of
December. Many high school clubs
choose to Adopt-a-Family or send shoe
boxes to underprivileged children. Even
if you are not in an active club, you can
still participate in a project. Goodwill
and the Salvation Army are always in
need of donated items, and local food
shelters can benefit from canned goods.
Check with your church to see if they
are involved in an activity to give back
to your community. Volunteer to spread
your Christmas cheer.
Oglebay Park
T
St. Marys Marina
Alex Gorrell
Business Manager
The
St.
Marys
Christmas light display
is an annual attraction for
many of the residents.
The light displays were
created by volunteers
from
the
MOVTI
welding classes and
other volunteer groups.
There are Christmas
related displays as well
as miniature structures
that can be found around
town. The court house and the Carpenter Bridge are some of the fan
favorites of the Marina’s light show. The lights are up throughout
the holiday season so go down and check them out.
Salvation
Army
The Salvation Army’s Angel Tree
program provides new clothing or toys
for children of families in need through
the support of donors. Angel trees can
be found in many local companies and
churches. The trees are decorated with
numbered paper angel tags with the first
name, age and gender of a child in need
of presents. Contributors remove one or
more tags from the tree and purchase
appropriate gifts for the child or children
described on the tags. Every child
deserves to have a Christmas morning,
and you can give an underprivileged
child this experience.
“I donate canned food.”
- Jeremy Jones
“I Adopt-A-Family through
yearbook and donate items to
families in need.”
- Sami Crowe
Adopt-A-Family
Adopt-A-Family is a program that matches impoverished families with group
or individual sponsors to provide gifts and needed items at Christmas. Without
the benefit of their sponsors, these families would not have a Christmas morning
to look forward to and struggle to provide for themselves throughout the winter
season. Being adopted is a once, or on very rare occasions, twice in a lifetime event
for the receiving families. The sponsors are given basic information such as age
and clothing size. Based upon
these specifications, groups
purchase items that the family
would need such as winter
coats, blankets, shoes and food.
“The best
In addition to essentials, most
way to find
groups provide toys and fun
yourself
is to lose
gifts for the family such as
yourself in the service
books or family games. Groups
within the high school such as
of others.”
sports teams, National Honor
Mahatma Gandhi
Society, Student Council and
various teachers all choose to
adopt families. If you are not in
a sponsoring club and wish to
Adopt-A-Family this holiday
season, visit The Salvation
Army Office nearest you.
Operation Christmas Child
Samaritan’s Purse is a non-profit organization that works with
local churches and ministries. Their mission is to give millions
of boys and girls in over 130 countries the experience receiving
gifts at Christmas. Samaritan’s Purse organizes a community
service project called Operation Christmas Child. Participants
pack shoeboxes that will go around the world to give children
gifts and the life-changing good news of the Bible.
Student council members donated gifts and packed shoe
boxes with toys, personal hygiene items, school supplies, and
accessories. Inside the shoebox, they placed a picture of the
group and wrote a personal message for the young child to read.
These boxes were then taken to First Baptist Church, the local
drop off spot.
The young children that will receive the boxes on Christmas
morning will have the strong sense of love and caring. For more
informartion visit www.samaritanspurse.org.
Dylan Hupp and
Kendra Scadden pack
a shoebox for a little
boy.
udents,
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The Argus
News
Christmas Entertainment
The holiday season is the
time for giving back. It also
is the time to get into the
Christmas spirit. Usually, many
get into the Christmas spirit
by baking cookies, singing
Christmas carols or decorating a
Christmas tree. Although these
are traditional activities, new
activities are being centered
around the Christmas season.
One surprising tradition
during the holiday season
is going to the movies on
Christmas. If you did not realize,
the movie theatres are open 365
days a year. Actually many
families go to the movies as a
family event during the holiday.
Christmas Eve
If you like live entertainment,
“A Christmas Carol” and
“Hometown Christmas” will
be performed at The Smoot
Theater. They also feature ballets
including “The Nutcracker.”
The 25 Days of Christmas
on ABC Family provides nice
entertainment for any family.
ABC Family puts on this
countdown each year. It features
traditional Christmas movies
and cartoons. The channel
also includes new movies
each year for a nice twist to
the countdown. This year they
added “Christmas Bounty” and
“Deck the Halls” to the 25 Days
of Christmas.
Weather Forecast
46
Rain becoming
steady
Christmas Day
Name this Christmas Movie!
1. “The best way to spread Christmas cheer is singing loud for all to hear.”
2. “Sometimes seeing is believing. And sometimes the most real things in the world are those
things we cannot see.”
3. “I never thought it was such a bad little tree. It’s not bad at all, really. Maybe it just needs a
little love.”
4. “You’ll shoot your eye out, kid.”
5. “Merry Christmas, you filthy animal. And a Happy New Year.”
6.
8. “Merry Christmas to all, and to all a good night! When I get home, I’m getting a CAT scan!”
10. “ Look Daddy, Teacher says every time a bell rings, an angel gets his wings.”
Periods of Rain
Finish these Christmas
Songs...
1. Grandma got run over by a reindeer...
2. Jingle Bell, Jingle Bell, Jingle Bell Rock...
Local Christmas Entertainment
Smoot Vaudeville Theatre -
3. I’ll be Home for Christmas...
4. I saw Mommy kissing Santa Claus...
5. On the first day of Christmas my true love sent to me...
6. Rudolph the Red-Nose Reindeer...
Actor’s Guild
Playhouse -
7. Frosty the Snowman...
8. Chesnuts roasting on an open fire...
9. Have a Holly Jolly Christmas...
10. Rockin’ Around the Christmas Tree...
Abigale Gellner
Reporter
Easy Holiday Toffee
1
1 cup butter
1 cup sugar
6 chocolate bars
1 cup of crushed candy canes or
whatever your heart desires
Sugar Cookies
7. “ BAH! Humbug!”
9. “Those Whos are hard to frazzle, Max. But, we did our worst, and that’s all that matters.”
48
CHRISTMAS
TREATS D
“Is your house on fire, Clark? No, Aunt Bethany, those are the Christmas lights.”
1. Elf 2. The Polar Express 3. A Charlie Brown Christmas 4. A Christmas Story
5. Home Alone 2: Lost in New York 6. National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation 7. The Christmas Carol
8. The Santa Clause 9. The Grinch who Stole Christmas 10. It’s A Wonderful Life
Hila Morrell
Reporter
Show Title: Hometown Christmas
Address: 213 Fifth Street
Downtown Parkersburg
Phone: 304.422.PLAY, 800.390.4555
Performance Date: Dec. 6
Time: 8pm to 10pm
Cost: Adult- $15, Student- $10
Show Title: White Christmas
Address: 8th & Market Streets
Downtown Parkersburg
Phone: 304.485.1300
Performance Dates: Dec. 7-8
Time: 8 p.m or 2:30 p.m. according to performance dates.
Cost: Adults-$17, Senior- $14, Student- $14 and
Children- $7.
Julia Ann Square
Historical District -
Title: The 14th Annual Victorian Christmas Homes
Tour & Tea
Address: Downtown Parkersburg
Phone: 304.422-9861
Dates: Dec. 7-8
Time: Guided Tours Dec. 7 will run at 1 p.m. and
3 p.m. Candlelight tours will begin at 6 p.m. SelfGuided Tours will run between 1 p.m. and 4 p.m.
Cost: $15 for Dec. 7, $10 for Dec. 8.
Cookies, cakes, and candies swamp
the Christmas season. Unfortunately,
the majority of teenagers struggle with
cooking. When asking a high schooler
for a recipe, they may reply that they
have a scrumptious cookie recipe with
ingredients consisting of one cup of
milk and a row of Oreos. Don’t allow
past cooking failures to discourage you
from spending time in the kitchen this
Christmas season. Cooking takes some
skill, but practice is really what you
1 cup butter, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
1 egg
1 tsp. vanilla extract
3 cups all-purpose flour
1/4 tsp. salt
1 container of pretty sparkling sugar
2
Melt butter and sugar in heavy duty
pan over medium-high heat. Stir
constantly until mixture turns a
light tan color (about 7-8 minutes).
Remove from heat.
Pour into any nonstick cake pan.
Ideally, mixture should be no more
than 1/2” thick. Place chocolate
bars on top and cover to speed
melting. While chocolate is still
soft, sprinkle with whatever you
would like. Allow to cool and break
into pieces.
--Kitchen of Dee
Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Beat
butter at medium speed with an
electric mixer until creamy. Gradually
add granulated sugar. Combine four
and salt. Gradually add to butter
mixture, beating until blended. Divide
dough in half. Cover and chill for one
hour. Roll each portion of dough to
1/4 -inch thickness on lightly floured
surface. Cut with desired cookie
cutters. Place on lightly greased
baking sheets. Bake for eight to ten
minutes or until edges are golden.
Dip cookies in glaze and sprinkle
with sparkling sugar.
3
Crush 36 oreos using a food
processor or Ziploc bag and
rolling pin. Combine cream
cheese
and
peppermint
extract in mixing bowl.
4
Add crushed oreos to mixture.
Mix together pressing back of
spoon against bottom of bowl
to combine evenly. Scoop out
1” spheres of oreo mixture onto
wax paper on a cookie sheet.
Place truffles in freezer for ten
minutes. Melt white chocolate
and dip truffles in chocolate.
Allow excess to run. Place on
baking sheet and sprinkle with
peppermint
-- cookingclassy.com
E
Package
up your
confections
and give them
away for
Christmas!
colored glaze
Whisk powdered sugar and water
together. Add food coloring. Divide
into shallow bowls to make dipping
cookies easier.
--Southern Living
Glaze:
1 16 oz package powdered sugar
6 Tbsp. warm water
Add liquid food coloring if you desire
Peppermint Oreos
36 oreos
8 oz package of cream
cheese
1 tsp. peppermint extract
16 oz white candy dipping
chocolate
1/4 cup crushed candy canes
need to make a delicious treat. Those
who cook, learn through experience.
If one attempt fails, scrape the batter
out of the mixing bowl and continue
on unperturbed. Challenge yourself on
Christmas break this year to make a treat
that will surprise your family and friends,
as well as yourself. Assuming from
the poll, many of you have not had the
opportunity to try gingerbread. Try the
gingerbread and other recipes over break.
Hope you enjoy!
Snickerdoodles
1/2 cup butter,
softened
1 cup and 2 Tbsp. sugar
1 egg
1/2 tsp. vanilla extract
1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1/4 tsp. baking soda
1/4 tsp. cream of tartar
1 tsp ground cinnamon
Mix one cup of butter and sugar in
a large bowl until light and fluffy.
Beat in egg and vanilla. Combine
the flour, baking soda and cream of
tartar; gradually add to the butter
mixture and mix well. In a small
bowl, combine two Tbsp. sugar and
cinnamon. Shape dough into 1” balls.
Rolls balls in sugar-cinnamon mixture
to coat. Place two inches apart on an
ungreased cookie sheet. Bake at 375
degrees for 10 to 11 minutes or until
edges are golden.
-- Better Home and Gardens
Five Minute Fudge
2 Tbs. butter
2/3 cup evaporated milk
1 2/3 cups sugar
1/2 tsp. salt
2 cups miniature marshmallows
1 1/2 cups semi-sweet chocolate
morsels
1 tsp. vanilla
1/2 cup chopped nuts, crushed
peppermint, or whatever you’d like
(make sure that what you add will
not easily melt)
5
Butter 8” square pan. Combine butter,
evaporated milk, sugar, and salt in
saucepan over medium heat, stirring
occasionally. Bring to full boil. Cook
4 to 5 minutes, stirring constantly.
Remove from heat. Stir in miniature
marshmallows, chocolate morsels,
vanilla, and 1/2 cup of your choosing.
Stir vigorously for 1 minute (until
marshmallows melt and blend). Pour
into pan. Cool. Cut in squares.
--Kitchen of Dee
F
Truffles (6%)
Fudge (24%)
fa Wh
vo at
rit
e C is yo
tre hri ur
at stm
?
as
Candy Canes
(22%)
Gingerbread
(5%)
Pie (13%)
Cookies
(30%)
*168 polled
12
13
1. Walking home from our house Christmas Eve.
2. Jingle bells swings and jingle bells ring. 3. You can plan on me.
4. Underneath the mistletoe last night. 5. A partridge in a pear tree.
6. Had a very shiny nose. 7. Was a jolly happy soul.
8. Jack Frost nipping on your nose. 9. It’s the best time of the year.
10. At the Christmas party hop.
News
Feature
Shealyn DeLancey
Editor
Early
illustrations of
St. Nicholas depict him
as stern, commanding and
holding a birch rod. He was
more a symbol of discipline
and punishment than the jolly,
overweight elf children
know today.
C
Each
year more
than three billion
Christmas cards are
sent in the U.S.
alone.
If
you counted all
the gifts that were given
in the song “Twelve Days of
Christmas” you would realize
that the number of gifts being
presented were 364 in total,
thus a gift was given for
each day of the
year.
Christmas
purchases
account for 1/6 of
all retail sales in
the U.S.
The
traditional three
colors of Christmas are
green, red and gold. Green
has long been a symbol of life
and rebirth; red symbolizes
the blood of Christ and gold
represents light as well as
wealth and royalty.
Evergreens
have been symbols
of eternal life and
rebirth since ancient times.
The pagan use and worship
of evergreen boughs and
trees has evolved into the
Christian Christmas
tree.
Christmas
was illegal in
England from
1647-1660.
Approximately
30-35 million real
Christmas trees are
sold each year in
the U.S.
Ingredients:
The
Evergreen is
actually edible, well most
parts of it anyway. In addition,
it is nutrient enriched, so if you take
the advice stated previously you’ll
be getting a good source of Vitamin
C and roughage. Don’t mind that
you will be eating a tree; it’s just
one step away from any
other vegetable.
*1 1/2- cups of
applesauce
*1 1/2- cups of
cinnamon
*1/8- cup of tacky
glue
*For decorating:
ribbons, glitter, jewels
and puffy fabric paint
Christmas
wasn’t declared
an official holiday
in the United States
until June 26,
1870.
* http://facts.randomhistory.com/christmas-facts.html, http://www.christmasfacts.net/
Decorating Your Tree
Step 1
* Setting up the tree is the first
thing that needs to be done.
The placement of your tree
is important; most families
place their trees in front of a
window where it can be seen
from outside. Once you pick a
place for your tree, make sure
it is stable in the stand.
Directions:
* Thoroughly mix all the ingredients together in a large bowl. If
the dough is too dry, add more applesauce; if it is too wet, add
more cinnamon.
* Lay a piece of waxed paper or foil on the counter. Roll out the
dough to about 1/8 inches thick. Cut out different shapes with
cookie cutters.
* Don’t forget to add the holes (use a straw) while the dough is still
wet. Lay ornaments on foil-covered pan and place in the oven on
170 degrees for 30 minutes.
* Remove from oven and let them dry for 24-48 hours. Use some
holiday ribbon to hang your cinnamon ornaments on the tree.
* Once the ornaments are dry, you can enjoy decorating your
ornaments.
Step 2
* Stringing your lights is
the next step in your tree
decorating process. Be certain
to check that all the lights are
working properly because if
one isn’t working properly
it can affect the other lights.
Also, during this step you
should string your tinsel and
garland.
Step 3
* The final step is to put your
individual
ornaments
on
your tree. The placement is
important because you don’t
want to have a big cluster
of ornaments in one section
then have a empty area. Other
than ornaments, you can hang
candy canes and don’t forget
the tree topper!
$ Saving Money $
A good way to save money on Christmas decorations is to buy
them after Christmas. This is a good time to buy decorations
because stores want to sell the rest of their Christmas items so
they put them on clearance. The markdowns can be as much as
70% off so you will be saving a lot of money. It is also fun to
reopen Christmas decorations and see what was bought last year.
http://www.mommyskitchen.net
Real Trees
Advantages
Lydia Watson
Editor
14
important things to decorate.
Every family decorates their
tree differently; some trees
have themes and color schemes
while others are just random
ornaments collected over the
years.
Decorating your whole house
can be an undertaking; make
sure you have your family
around to help out because
part of the fun of decorating
is spending time with family.
Family time is an important part
of the holidays.
This Christmas gather up your
family, crank up the Christmas
music and enjoy decorating.
Cinnamon Applesauce Ornaments
Americans
on average send
out 28 Christmas
cards to friends and
family yearly, and
most will receive
28 in the same
period.
It is
estimated that
at least 56 percent
of Americans sing to
their pets during the
Christmas season.
It
was once
believed that any
woman who went under
a mistletoe and was not
kissed would not marry
the coming year.
hristmas is a great time of
year to enjoy decorating.
Decorating is a wonderful way
to kick off the Christmas season.
How to decorate is completely
up to you; every family has their
own unique traditions and ways
they decorate.
One main decoration that is
used to brighten up the season
is Christmas lights. Christmas
lights can be strung just about
anywhere there is an outlet so
you can brighten up your house
inside and out.
The Christmas tree also
needs to be decorated. The tree
is probably one of the most
* Makes the house
smell great
*Gives off an
authentic look
*Less of a fire
hazard
*Creates good family
bonding to go pick
out a tree
Disadvantages
*You have to water
the tree often.
* Needles drop on
the floor
*Hard to adjust the
tree to look centered
* They get sap on
you when you are
decorating them.
Real
Trees
VS
Artificial
Trees
15
Artificial Trees
Advantages
* Artificial trees can
last several years.
*Doesn’t make messes
*Easy to store
*You only have to
invest in it once.
*Doesn’t need much
maintenance
Disadvantages
*They are fire hazards.
*Takes the joy out
of picking out a tree
every year
*They are not
recyclable.
*It doesn’t smell good
like a real tree does.
Feature
Nicholas Beaty
Reporter
New Year...
New Traditions!!
As we say goodbye to 2013
and bring in 2014, it means that
the New Year is coming around.
Among traditions, people eat
certain foods, keep doors open
and even yell at the top of their
lungs to bring in the New Year.
New Year’s Day usually marks
the end of the first semester of
the school year, meaning we
have survived half of the year!
New Year’s Day was first
celebrated by the Babylonians,
4000 years ago. Back then,
New Year’s was the first full
moon after spring began.
While we celebrate it for only
one day, they celebrated it for
11 days. This went on until the
Roman Senate declared that
Jan. 1 was the beginning of a
new year.
Many
people
make
resolutions that they hope to
achieve in the upcoming year.
Superstitions
surrounding New Year’s
Many people have the generic
“I want to be healthier” and
such. You should think of a
resolution that will make you
challenge yourself. This will
make your goal more worthy,
and you will be proud if you
complete it. If you slip up, you
can always jump back in and
keep challenging yourself for
the year to see just how much
longer you could have made it,
minus that one fault.
When going out and about
Dec. 31, keep an eye out for
fireworks and celebrations. It’s
amazing to see all the happiness
and tranquility surrounding
one holiday.
Seeing friends and families
coming
together,
eating
family dinners and going to
small parties are common
occurrences around this special
time of the year.
In General:
Yourself:
Don’t Let Anything Leave
The House!
It is considered bad luck to
take your trash out or even
take food to your families’
houses.
Don’t Cry.
It is said that if you cry on
New Year’s it could bring in
unhappiness for the upcoming
year.
Wind.
It is said that winds from the
South or calm winds mean
prosperity in the future, while
winds from the East mean
famine and calamities.
Make Noise!
Making as much noise as
possible to bring in the New
Year scares out all the evil
spirits from the previous year
and keeps them away for the
upcoming year.
Open the doors at midnight.
It is said if you open your
doors at midnight, you will let
all the bad from the previous
year out and welcome in the
New Year.
Don’t Break Anything!
If you break anything during
New Year’s it will bring in
bad luck for the year. It also
gives you an excuse to get out
of some chores!
Sources: http://www.athensplus.com/NewYearsSuperstitions.htm
http://www.happywink.org/newyearfestival/new-year-superstitions.html
New Year’s Celebrations Around the World!
Australia: While many of us
are huddled in our homes,
Australians have outside
activities, such as picnics,
rodeos and even surfing
carnivals.
Japan: If you were to ever
go to Japan on New Year’s,
you would spot ropes of straw
across the front of their house,
representing good luck and
happiness.
Germany: On New Year’s,
Germans gather and pour
molten lead into cold water
and try to predict their futures
by the shape. A heart means
marriage, a ship signals
journey and a pig means that
there will be plenty of food for
the upcoming year.
South Africa: New Year’s
brings in a festive atmosphere,
as church bells and gunshots
bring in the New Year. Many
people can be seen in the
streets dancing around in
costumes to the sound of
drums.
Spain: In Spain, they ring
church bells 12 times, and the
natives eat one grape with each
toll of the bell. This signifies
good luck for all twelve
months of the upcoming New
Year.
Scotland: In Scotland,
cleaning your house on New
Year’s Day is a ritual for
purifying their mistakes of
the past year. They also carry
burning juniper branches
throughout their houses to get
rid of germs and diseases.
Source: http://www.fathertimes.net/traditions.htm
How long did your 2013
New Year's Resolution last?
*115 polled
= 5 Votes
63 Votes
9 Votes
1-3 months
11 Votes
4-7 months
2 Votes
8-11 months
30 Votes
The whole year so far!
16
“I want to become
the universe’s best
sparkling-juice drinking
drummer.”
Emily Powell
“I want to do more
underwater basket weaving.”
Rachael Flanagan
What to do on
New Year’s
Watch Football
New Year’s is right in the
midst of college football
season, so kick back and
enjoy a day of football with
your family!
Re-Connect with Friends
and Extended Family
New Year’s is a great time
to call friends that you may
not have seen or talked to
in a while, make plans and
bring in the new year with
your friends and families all
around!
Go see a movie
New Year’s often has many
new movies coming out in
theaters; grab a few friends
and go see a movie!
Shop
New Year’s often has many
post-Christmas sales for some
items that you may not have
been able to buy during the
holiday season. Gather your
family, hop in the car and
spend the day at the mall!
Less than a month
What’s Your New
Year’s Resolution?
Sit at home
Spend your New Year’s at
home with your family and
relax before you return to
school/work!
“I plan to be nice to
everybody and have a
fun year.”
Kaytlynn Banks
“I plan to not eat as
much.”
Kelcey Holland
“I don’t normally make
New Year’s resolutions,
because I don’t wait
until New Year’s to
change my life.”
Abigale Gellner