212 items found for your search. If no results were found please broaden your search.
(08/23/12 7:53pm)
____simple_html_dom__voku__html_wrapper____>1. TAKE A HIKE.Bloomington is full of beautiful southern Indiana vistas. Take a hike around or a swim in Lake Monroe, which is 23,952 acres of water that stretches across three counties. Or, for something a little closer, try Griffy Lake. There, you can take in the scenery and get a little exercise, too. If you’re feeling ambitious, rent a kayak and explore the lake.2. RIDE A BIKE.Home to the renowned Little 500, biking in Bloomington is a pretty popular pastime. If you can’t actually make it to the race itself, which is held in April every year, try exploring the town by bike. You can pedal through IU’s campus or utilize one of the bike trails in the city. Either way, you know you’re paying homage to Bloomington’s strong cycling history.3. HAVE FUN AT A FESTIVAL.Bloomington’s many festivals happen year-round, and there’s no better way to get a taste of the culture. With samplings of food from restaurants all over town, Taste of Bloomington is great for those who aren’t afraid to loosen their belts a notch or two. Lotus Fest, which usually happens in early fall, brings a burst of culture through visual and performing arts. The Fourth Street Festival exhibits artists and craftsmen, and the annual Week of Chocolate is perfect for those with a sweet tooth.4. SINK THE BIZ.Nick’s English Hut is an English-style restaurant on Kirkwood Avenue, and Sink the Biz is its signature drinking game. You’ll grab a bucket of beer and take turns pouring into a floating cup. Whoever sinks it, drinks. It might sound simple, but the relaxed atmosphere and mild competition will bring on some great memories. Sinking the Biz at Nick’s is a Bloomington staple for students, residents, alumni and even visitors, and it’s an absolute Bloomington must.5. CHECK OUT THE FARMERS’ MARKET.Stretching from April to late November, the Farmers’ Market can almost always provide you with some of the freshest locally grown and organic foods you’ll ever eat. The emphasis on health and environment is strong in Bloomington, and the market is a great way to see that spirit. Even if you’re not buying, walking through will give you the chance to catch a glimpse of true Hoosier pride. (Read more about the market.)6. STOP BY SHOWALTER FOUNTAIN.If you’re taking a late night walk around campus, stop by and gaze at the Showalter Fountain. It’s located in the heart of campus, and the statues are famed for being constantly “misplaced” by rowdy students (see p. 6). If you’re really adventurous, dip your toes in the water.7. GO TO A BASKETBALL GAME AT ASSEMBLY HALL.IU is famous for many things, but nothing is bigger than basketball. After last year’s appearance in the Sweet Sixteen, Hoosier fans will be going nuts for the 2012-2013 season - an energy that can only be seen at Assembly Hall. It is one of the most treasured stadiums in the country, and the five championship banners are like a museum exhibit that’s not worth skipping.8. TURN A PAGE AT THE LILLY LIBRARY.Not your average library, the Lilly holds some of IU’s (and the world’s) greatest treasures. This place specializes in rare books, and it has one of the most impressive collections in the world, including a GutenbergBible and Audubon’s “Birds of America,” a copy of which sold for $11.5 million. Best of all is the fact that the library allows people to use most of the books, so after a short registration process, you could be holding a first edition of Walt Whitman’s “Leaves of Grass.”9. LOUNGE LIKE A STUDENT AT THE INDIANA MEMORIAL UNION.If you really want to see what students do in between classes, stop by the IMU. The multiple lounges offer a great place to rest, people watch or even take a nap — you’ll see plenty of students doing just that. Pick up an official IU sweatshirt — or any other collegiate gear your heart desires — at the three-level bookstore. Afterward, take a seat in the marketplace and pick from a variety of both fast food and healthy eating options.10. SEE THE STARS AT THE KIRKWOOD OBSERVATORY.Almost every Wednesday, the Kirkwood Observatory is opened to the public. Come at night to stargaze, but make sure you check the online schedule, as viewings may be canceled suddenly due to bad weather. Looking for a cheap date? Take your lady or fella here. It’s one of the most romantic — and free — places on campus.11. GET FRISKY AT THE KINSEY INSTITUTE.Put down that Cosmo and head over to the Kinsey Institute. One of the world’s foremost sexual research facilities, the Kinsey Institute has art exhibits where you can see stuff older than your dad’s Playboys. This is a fun activity for a lazy afternoon, but just make sure to leave the kids at home.12. TAKE IN THE SCENERY AT THE ARBORETUM.Arguably the most beautiful place on campus, the Arboretum is perfect if you’re relaxing with a good book or cramming for an exam. Even for the most rushed visitor, this area will make you stop with awe.
(06/07/12 7:18pm)
____simple_html_dom__voku__html_wrapper____>From the bustling, noisy Starbucks in the Indiana Memorial Union to a quiet nook in the Herman B Wells Library, student study spots are as diverse as the majors the University offers. With more than 30,000 undergraduates, the University as countless options for people searching for the perfect place to finish their schoolwork.STARBUCKSWhile most consider a quiet atmosphere conducive to learning, 2011 graduate Grace Green enjoyed the hustle and bustle of the Starbucks in the IMU Gallery. The milling crowds and background music kept her focused on her homework while the coffee and desserts kept her nourished as she worked.“I like to study at Starbucks because it’s not too quiet and it’s not too loud,” Green said. “In my (dorm) room I get too distracted, and the library is too quiet. It seems kind of tense in the library. But in Starbucks, there are people moving around and talking, but they are not necessarily people you know who you’re going to talk to.”Unlike some of her classmates, Green said she enjoys background noise and wasn’t easily distracted by the sounds of coffee being made, the chatter of the students and music. She said the atmosphere relaxed her and allowed her to concentrate on her work without being anxious or stressed.“Some people need absolute silence to study, but I don’t really need that,” Green said.CAMPUS LIBRARIESJust as Green needed noise to loosen her up as she did her homework, 2010 graduate Robert Barnell preferred the solitary space and quiet ambiance of libraries, choosing to study mainly in the Wells and School of Public and Environmental Affairs libraries. Barnell stopped in several times a day between and after classes, valuing convenience and absolute silence when he was working, he said.“Between classes, I’ll go to whatever library is nearest,” Barnell said. “A lot of people seem to not go (to the SPEA library), so it’s not super crowded. I like how they have windows, and it’s an interesting building.”While Barnell enjoyed the SPEA library, he would switch locations if he was working on a larger assignment.“I go to SPEA just for day-to-day things,” Barnell said. “When I have a really big paper, I’ll go to Wells to the second floor of the West Tower.”DORM ROOMSWhile some students prefer to leave the distracting space of their own dorm rooms, other students favor the convenience and companionship of studying with friends.2011 graduate Leah Myhre said she dislikes areas with constant noise, such as the Starbucks in the IMU, and the quiet atmosphere of the library. Rating convenience as a main priority, she said she would stay in her dorm to study in the company of friends.“If it’s something small that has to be completed for the next day and doesn’t require a lot of focused attention, then I like to study with friends,” Myhre said. “I think it creates a fun, energetic atmosphere that keeps me awake to do my homework.”However, if she had an upcoming paper or project that required more consideration than her daily work, then Myhre said she would leave her dorm to visit the library.“If I have to work on a paper or do a huge project, then I like to do it alone or maybe with one other person who’s doing the same work in the library so I’m more focused and concentrating,” she said.OTHER STUDY SPOTS AROUND CAMPUSThe Arboretum: This is the perfect spot when the weather is nice to study solo or work on homework with a group of friends.The South Lounge: Located next to the Starbucks in the IMU, this lounge, nicknamed “The Quiet Room,” offers a quiet atmosphere that’s not the library.Residence hall lounges: Studying in your residence hall lounge gets you out of your dorm room while maintaining the convenience of studying where you live.OFF-CAMPUS STUDY SPOTSMonroe County Public Library303 E. Kirkwood Ave.The Pourhouse Cafe314 E. Kirkwood Ave.Runcible Spoon Cafe & Restaurant412 E. 6th St.Barnes & Noble2813 E. 3rd St.City Bakery1318 E. 3rd St.SOMA Coffeehouse322 E. Kirkwood Ave.
(08/11/11 9:51pm)
____simple_html_dom__voku__html_wrapper____>Bloomington has so many eateries it can be overwhelming. Don’t worry, though. These places are guaranteed to fill you up for breakfast, lunch or dinner, and they’ve got a special feel you can’t get anywhere but Bloomington. Dig in.Mother Bear’s1428 E. Third St.812-332-4495This Bloomington institution boasts the best pizza in town and is usually crowded. But even if you have a long wait, you’ll be rewarded. Try one of the specialty pizzas, or make your own. For a healthy side, order a house salad. It’s famous for its goldfish, instead of croutons, and just as good as any pizza.FarmBloomington108 E. Kirkwood Ave.812-323-0002For something a little more upscale, try FarmBloomington. Located on the square, it’s one of the most premier dining options in town. Its eclectic atmosphere and healthy dishes make you wish you visited more often.Feast581 E. Hillside Dr.812-822-0222This bakery is best for brunch where you have brioche bread on an egg sandwich or with fresh berries. It’s a drive from campus, but it still gets busy during normal peak hours. If you’re coming for lunch or dinner, check out the burgers. The sweet potato fries alone will make the drive worth it.Runcible Spoon412 E. Sixth St.812-334-3997For weekend brunch, the Runcible Spoon is the best. Try home fries to cure a late night out or any of their omelets. The funky atmosphere fits with Bloomington’s college town vibe, and the coffee is better than any Starbucks.Chow Bar216 S. Indiana Ave.812-336-3888Like any college town, Bloomington is full of Chinese restaurants. But for the best Chinese food, head to Chow Bar. The entrees are enough to feed two, but trust us, you won’t want to split your meals. And those leftovers will be just as good the next day. Make sure to get some bubble tea with your meal, or to go. Le Petit Café308 W. Sixth St.812-334-9747Bloomington has an array of ethnic restaurants, including Thai, Tibetan and Turkish. But for a romantic meal, come to Le Petit Café. It’s a charming French restaurant whose owners are a French couple who have been in town for years. The menu changes frequently, but don’t despair. Everything you order will be oh-so-good.
(08/11/11 9:41pm)
____simple_html_dom__voku__html_wrapper____>Though IU is often the focus of visitors to Bloomington, the town itself has more to offer than people usually expect. The off-beat cultural offerings usually found only in big cities are what keep people coming back, and the campus has tons to explore. Check some things off this list, and we guarantee you’ll start falling in love too.Take a hike.Bloomington is full of beautiful, typical southern Indiana vistas. Take a hike around or a swim in Lake Monroe, which is 23,952 acres of water that stretches across 3 counties. Or, for something a little closer, try Griffy Lake. There, you can take in the scenery and get a little exercise, too. If you’re feeling ambitious, rent a kayak and explore the lake.Ride a bike.Home to the renowned Little 500, biking in Bloomington is a pretty popular pastime. If you can’t actually make it to the race itself, which is held in April every year, try exploring the town by bike. You can pedal through IU’s campus or utilize one of the bike trails in the city. Either way, you know you’re paying homage to Bloomington’s strong cycling history.Have fun at a festival.Bloomington’s many festivals happen almost year-round, and there’s no better way to get a taste of the culture. With samplings of food from restaurants all over town, Taste of Bloomington is great for those who aren’t afraid to loosen their belts a notch or two. Lotus, which usually happens in early fall, brings a burst of culture through visual and performing arts. The Fourth Street festival exhibits artists and craftsmen, and the annual Week of Chocolate is perfect for those with a sweet tooth.Sink the Biz.Nick’s English Hut is an English-style pub on Kirkwood Avenue, and Sink the Biz is its signature drinking game. You’ll grab a bucket of beer and take turns pouring into a floating cup. Whoever sinks it, drinks. It might sound simple, but the relaxed atmosphere and mild competition will bring on some great memories. Sinking the Biz at Nick’s is a Bloomington staple for students, residents, alumni and even visitors, and it’s an absolute Bloomington must.Check out the Farmers’ Market.Stretching from April to late November, the Farmers’ Market can almost always provide you with some of the freshest locally-grown and organic foods you’ll ever eat. The emphasis on health and environment is strong in Bloomington, and the market is a great way to see that spirit. Even if you’re not buying, walking through will give you the chance to catch a glimpse of true Hoosier pride.Stop by Showalter Fountain.If you’re taking a late night walk around campus, stop by and gaze at the Showalter Fountain. It’s located in the heart of campus, and the statues are famed for being constantly “misplaced” by rowdy students. If you’re really adventurous, take a swim. You might get yelled at by security, but the illicit dip will be worth it.Go to a basketball game at Assembly Hall.IU is famous for many things, but nothing is bigger than basketball. The Hoosiers might not be making it into the NCAA fnals next season, but don’t tell that to the fans. Assembly Hall is still one of the most treasured stadiums in the country, and the five championship banners are like a museum exhibit that’s not worth skipping. Turn a page at the Lilly Library.Not your average library, the Lilly holds some of IU’s (and the world’s) greatest treasures. This place specializes in rare books, and it has one of the most impressive collections in the world, including a Gutenburg Bible and Audubon’s “Birds of America,” a copy of which sold for $11.5 million. Best of all is the fact that the library allows people to use most of the books, so after a short registration process, you could be holding a first edition of Walt Whitman’s “Leaves of Grass.”Lounge like a student at the Indiana Memorial Union.If you really want to see what students do in between classes, stop by the IMU. The multiple lounges offer a great place to rest, people watch or even take a nap — you’ll see plenty of students doing just that. Pick up an official IU sweatshirt — or any other collegiate gear your heart desires — at the three-level bookstore. Afterward, take a seat in the marketplace and pick from a variety of both fast food and healthy eating options.See the stars at the Kirkwood Observatory.Almost every Wednesday, the Kirkwood Observatory is opened to the public. Come at night to stargaze, but make sure you check the online schedule. Viewings may be canceled suddenly due to bad weather. Looking for a cheap date? Take your lady or guy here. It’s the most romantic — and free — place on campus.Get frisky at the Kinsey Institute.Put down that Cosmo and head over to the Kinsey Institute. One of the world’s foremost sexual research facilities, the Kinsey Institute has art exhibits where you can see stuff older than your dad’s Playboys. This is a fun activity for a lazy afternoon, but just make sure to leave the kids at home.Take in the scenery at the Arboretum.Arguably the most beautiful place on campus, the Arboretum is perfect if you’re relaxing with a good book or cramming for an exam. Even for the most rushed visitor, this area will make you stop with awe.
(07/21/11 8:39pm)
Coupons and meal plans for an efficient diet
(07/08/11 6:36pm)
____simple_html_dom__voku__html_wrapper____>I, like any girl, love shopping. I love going in a store, browsing through the options and picking out my purchases.I’m not talking about buying clothes though, I’m talking about grocery shopping.Being a foodie, I love hitting up my local grocery stories every week to pick up food for the week. The problem, as is with any type of shopping, is that I usually don’t need as much food as I buy. Even though I have cabinets full of food, I always go out and get something new every week.Just last week, I bought two boxes of Cocoa Pebbles, arguably the best cereal in the world. But I didn’t need it. I already had instant oatmeal and granola for breakfast, a bag of granola that cost me a ridiculous $6.So why buy? It’s more fun to get something new and exciting instead of digging through your pantry.But this week, it changes. Except for vegetables and fruit, I refuse to buy anything new when I have edible food sitting at home.The reason for this change? My parents.In between moving houses, my parents are renting a house much smaller than our old one. When I came back to visit my parents for winter break, I saw how cramped they were. Stuff was everywhere and I couldn’t believe how packed the fridge was.This problem is apparently genetic. When I was going through my pantry today, I found four boxes of brown sugar. Count it, four boxes of brown sugar. I’m not sure when I had the reason for stocking so much of the sweet stuff. Was it an incredible buy one get one free deal that I didn’t want to pass up? Or did I run out one day and resolve to never be short of brown sugar again? Whatever it was, I had $10 worth of food sitting in my house that I will not use in a whole year’s worth of baking.When you buy something, you are paying for more than just how the item costs up front. You have to transport it, store it, clean it and then eventually, move it. When you buy something, you are taking on the added stress of possessing that object. That’s why it’s important to put down that family-size bag of Doritos and ask yourself if you don’t have a half-eaten box at home.One of the biggest problems with food clutter is the sale. Every time an item goes on sale, even if I have it at home, I am fiercely tempted into buying it. Chicken breast on sale for $1.77 a pound?Why yes, I’d love some. It’s only when I remind myself that I’ve had a pack at home in my freezer for three months that I have to put down the incredibly good deal and back away.One of the other reasons for my uncluttering is my impending move. I only have a month left in Bloomington, and whether I have to move back home or to another city, I don’t really want to lament all the unused food I had laying around.So this is my challenge. One month. Only buy the bare minimum. I’m budgeting around $10 a week for groceries, which should be fine since I only need a few fruits and veggies to beef up my already stocked fridge.In whatever situation you’re in, it’s good to step back and see what you have already. It forces you to get more creative with your cooking and less responsive to your cravings. By reeling in my food budget, I can force myself to experiment with what I have. Who knows, maybe by the end of next month, I’ll be happily shopping again. This time, with no guilt.
(06/30/11 8:54pm)
For many Americans, the Fourth of July is a
grillin’, drinkin’ and setting off $300 fireworks extravaganza.
It’s the same for my
family, except for the fireworks because my dog is terrified of any noise louder
than a piece of paper can make.
On the Fourth of July,
my dad grills shish kebabs and corn on the cob while my mom cuts up watermelon
slices for our friends and family. As American as our celebration is, the Fourth of July is even more meaningful for my family than most.
When I was four, my
parents and I moved from Ukraine to the U.S. They, like many immigrants, wanted
to live somewhere without persecution. They wanted a place where everyone has an
opportunity.
When you move to a
different country, there's a tendency to head into one of two extremes: that of rejecting
your old culture or rejecting your new one.
Luckily, my family found a balance. We still prefer vodka to beer and speak Russian at home, but
my parents have embraced American pop culture. I’m not sure of any other family
that owns every season of “Everybody Loves Raymond.”
And like any other good
American, we really celebrate the Fourth of July. On the surface, it seems like
any other family get-together. A relaxed pool party, plenty of food, and old
friends.
The Fourth is like
my family’s Thanksgiving. It’s our chance to realize how lucky we are to be in
a country where change is possible, where hope is not a vapid dream, where
democracy is something real.
(06/30/11 8:47pm)
____simple_html_dom__voku__html_wrapper____>Every other Saturday, I indulge in a Bloomington tradition. It’s one that’s rarely mentioned in guidebooks, campus tours or town websites.This tradition is the farmer’s market.When I was younger, my parents and I would venture to the Germantown Farmer’s Market every weekend in the summer. Growing up in Memphis, we had access to plenty of fresh vegetables and fruits.There was the stand that sold peaches so fragrant their scent would lure you to buying more thanyou needed. A pea shelling machine spat out green beads fresher than anything canned. And always, an old lady sat in a corner weaving baskets, unfazed by the commotion.I remember my father knocking on watermelons to choose the freshest one and then lugging it around with him as my mother squeezed tomatoes. The vendors rarely changed, and their constant presence reassured the customers of their credibility. You trust Peach World will have the best peaches because every week, without fail, they are there.My hometown farmer’s market mesmerized me. The bright colors of the fruits, the back-and-forth chatter and the cacophony of the machines contrasted with the stale, dimly lit Kroger in my neighborhood.Going to a farmer’s market is not an errand; it’s an adventure. You can interact with the peoplewho grow the food you purchase. Eating is a very intimate thing, one that is reduced to cheap prostitution when you buy from a grocery story. But when you pick up a fruit and look into the eyes of the person who grew it, you can trust they’ll tell you if it’s ripe.It was only last year that I started attending the Bloomington Community Farmer’s Market. Its stature hardly impresses, but the experience of attending compares.Last week, I came home with an Italian herb mix, a bunch of lavender, a bouquet and a couple of peaches. I spent $11, a lot of money considering I could get a week’s worth of groceries for that cost at Aldi. But instead of walking into a store, running down my list and checking out as fast as I can, the farmer’s market allows me to linger.I don’t have to pick up a flyer to check the latest deals. I can simply take a few walks around to see where I can find the best deal on zucchini. Or I can grab a cup of coffee from the local roasters and a muffin from Feast, my favorite Bloomington bakery.The best part of buying produce at a farmer’s market is what you learn from the farmer’s. every time I buy something, whether it’s fresh flowers or green onions, I ask how to store it, how long it lasts and when to throw it away.I don’t buy my produce at the farmer’s market because it’s always cheaper or because I’m a big supporter of locally-grown food. I like knowing more about what I’m eating. And as much as I like the customer service at Kroger, I can’t find that kind of information there. We as consumers should be more aware of what we eat.If you’re free on Saturday, stop by the Showers Commons. The market is open from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m., but get there early. There’s nothing like showing up and seeing you missed the first round of perfect peaches.
(06/24/11 6:36pm)
When I think of summer food, I think of vegetables.
(06/24/11 5:55pm)
____simple_html_dom__voku__html_wrapper____>Working on my fourth internship, I consider myself a semi-expert on how to survive (and how to fail) a three-month stint. It’s tough to work knowing that no matter how much you love or hate your job, it will be over in a matter of weeks. But if you follow these tips, you’ll have a better chance of being remembered and recommended.1. Do well. Sure, if you lounge around all summer and browse Reddit instead of doing work you might have a better time. But in the long run, it’s the interns who force themselves to do the grunt work who end up getting a recommendation from their bosses.2. No excuses. There are plenty of reasons you turned in your assignment late, but unless it was due to a family emergency or illness, your boss probably won’t care. Accept your mistakes and use them as reasons to do even better next time.3. Pitch in. Offer to go to every meeting and contribute to them when you do. No one will know you have great ideas if you’re hiding in the corner trying not to yawn. People sometimes think being shy means they’re respectful of their superiors, but if you don’t speak up, people will wonder why you’re there at all.4. Be on time. Yes, the guy who sits next to you in the cubicle might show up 30 minutes late every day, but that is not an excuse for you. Show up on time or early if you can swing it. Even if you don’t think your boss notices you at all, he or she will notice if you cruise in late.5. Keep your chin up. It’s hard to stay motivated and encouraged when all your ideas get shut down, but only the weak interns use their frustration as an excuse for not contributing. When your boss rejects an idea, listen to why they didn’t like it and improve on it next time. They might still say no, but they’ll appreciate your improvement and perseverance.6. Take it seriously. Even if your internship only requires you to take lunch orders, take the best damn lunch order ever. If you can prove that you take your job as seriously as your supervisors do, you’ll show them you’re ready to handle big tasks.8. Try to make friends with your co-workers. In every internship and job I’ve had, I’ve usually left feeling happy that I met some cool people. My internship last summer became instantly more fun once I had a core group of co-workers and other interns I could hang out with outside of work.9. Be grateful. Even if your internship is unpaid and requires you to commute for an hour every day, be thankful you have one. Write thank-you notes on your last day and bring in doughnuts for the staff. Show them you were appreciative of the opportunity to work there. 10. Don’t be an idiot. Don’t take naps on your lunch break at your desk. Don’t miss a day without calling in. And most of all, no matter how miserable you are, don’t quit.11. Learn everyone’s name and be friendly. It might seem awkward to try to befriend a group of people old enough to be your parents, but the more open you are, the more likely it is you’ll be someone they give a reference to.
(06/02/11 5:46pm)
____simple_html_dom__voku__html_wrapper____>It’s housed in the same building as Bloomington staples such as Soma and Laughing Planet, and now Cactus Flower, the hip vintage clothing boutique, has finally made a name for itself. The 34-year-old store was voted Best Local Shop, the first time it has won any category in the Best of Bloomington issue. Why the sudden jump? “It’s taken a long time for people to know about us and what we have,” weekend manager and buyer Sara Baldwin said. “It’s really grown to be more student-friendly with a wider range.” The store’s wares include polka dot and beaded dresses, Betsey Johnson tights, pizza-slice earrings and gold-studded ponytail holders. Bangles and birthday cards are propped up side by side. There’s a large selection of almost anything, but it’s the dresses that seem most popular. “We focus on pretty clothing,” owner Jill Schaffer said. “We like to find pretty dresses.” Baldwin said the store’s selection of both vintage, housed upstairs, and new apparel on the first floor, make it a good fit for a variety of customers. “Our collection downstairs and upstairs spans from teens to middle ages,” Baldwin said. The selection of vintage clothing upstairs includes leather purses, black pumps and a men’s section. Customers can consign clothing upstairs and receive 40 percent of the profits when the item is sold. Baldwin said she sells clothes upstairs to pay for the new wares that come in. Cactus Flower is not the only clothing store in the area for female students. Just down the street, Cha Cha, Pitaya and Urban Outfitters offer female students plenty of choices. Despite having other women’s stores on Kirkwood, Schaffer said Cactus Flower’s ability to survive is a testament to finding the best deals for its customers with a range of prices. “We try to find things that are reasonably priced but are still good quality,” Schaffer said. It’s the clothes, though, that keep people coming back. “There’s not ever going to be anything on Kirkwood that has what we have,” Baldwin said.
(06/02/11 5:43pm)
____simple_html_dom__voku__html_wrapper____>Mother Bear’s has now been named Best Pizza for the sixth year in a row as part of the 10th edition of Best of Bloomington. And this year, the iconic local eatery was also voted Best Restaurant for the first time. Owner Ray McConn said he agrees with being named Best Pizza but was shocked to find out they had won Best Restaurant. “I’m really amazed that we won,” he said. McConn started Mother Bear’s in 1973, but it was only in the past decade that the restaurant expanded to its current occupancy of about 130 customers. Kitchen manager Mark Hajduk said Mother Bear’s does the same amount of business in one hour of work on a Friday night that it used to do in an entire Friday. “It’s taken us this long to reach that level,” Hajduk said. Mother Bear’s recognition for Best Restaurant might also have something to do with their reasonable prices. McConn said out of the half dozen or so restaurants that also deserved the award, Mother Bear’s is “the most affordable.” While Mother Bear’s is popular with pre-gaming students, McConn said the restaurant is open to everyone. “Good food and good service doesn’t need a generational label,” he said. The Mother Bear’s specials are another factor for the popularity among college students, as students cannot typically afford the more high-end restaurants in town. But they offer more than just good pizza. For people looking for traditional restaurant food, there’s ravioli, lasagna, spaghetti and chicken Parmesan. The selection of subs and wings are also popular. Yet it’s still the pizza that draws the customers. “They’re amazed at how good it is and how consistently good it is,” McConn said.
(05/06/11 2:06am)
____simple_html_dom__voku__html_wrapper____>When the average freshman arrives in Bloomington, they are usually introduced to the miracle of Fourth Street. The boulevard of ethnic food is one of the most celebrated areas close to campus, and this week I’m using it as inspiration.As much as I love eating on Fourth Street, my wallet usually prefers that I choose somewhere cheaper. So when I get a hankering for something different, I try to recreate the dishes that I’ve had there.One of the best things I’ve discovered in my short cooking career is how easy it is to make curry. All you need is a good recipe, the right spices and a willingness to fail. I’ve made some curry dishes that made me swear off ethnic food forever and some that I could have eaten forever.To make ethnic cooking even easier, many stores offer ready-made spice mixes that take care of the work for you. You can buy dry curry powder nearly anywhere or my favorite, a Thai red curry paste.One of my goals with this column is to make cooking easy and accessible to everyone, especially those people who might not be as willing to experiment. The first curry recipe I ever saw was on The Pioneer Woman’s website, and it was so easy to follow that I made it successfully the first time around. If you find a good recipe and follow the directions, you usually can’t go wrong.Ethnic food might look difficult to make because of its inherent unfamiliarity, but if you learn how, making international cuisine can become as second nature as heading down to Fourth Street.If you really want to experiment, go to Sahara Mart. Their international section is brimming with food that can spice up any meal. Even your local Kroger or Marsh carries enough Indian and Thai ingredients to get you started.This week’s recipe is so easy to prepare that it may become a staple in your diet as one of those meals you make when you don’t feel like cooking, but still want to eat something delicious.So go ahead, imagine your favorite meal from Fourth Street, go to a grocery store and make your own creation.
(04/27/11 6:38pm)
____simple_html_dom__voku__html_wrapper____>A few days ago, the lovely, talented and handsome editors of WEEKEND asked me if I was going to write a goodbye column. I’m graduating in nine days — what, single digits already? — and many columnists in my position choose the “Bittersweet Symphony” — or insert-your-’90s-goodbye-song-here — route. This last semester, especially the past few weeks, have all been about good-byes. Lots of “lasts” — bar crawls, classes and Little 500. I’ve been slowly emptying my apartment of things I don’t need, just to make the trip to wherever I end up a little easier. Even when I go grocery shopping, I think, “What if I leave in a few weeks? Why am I buying cheese that will last longer than my time in Bloomington?” Everyone says this, but college does go by fast. I remember moving in, decorating my walls with cologne ads, drinking god-awful jungle juice and making friends who seem like family. Every day was an adventure. Sometimes that adventure only included skipping class and sipping hot chocolate while snow fell outside of Foster Quad. But it was always more exciting than what my parents reported from home. When I was deciding on colleges, I looked at the best journalism programs in the country. I examined newspaper awards, notable alumni and class lists. As much as I’ve learned from my time at the Journalism school, I’ve learned more from my friends. I’ll need those basic journalism skills in my future career, but not as much as I’ll need the lessons you get from living with people. One of the best things I learned in college was how to take care of myself. I knew how to do my laundry before I came to school, but making meals was a challenge. When you’ve got a variety of fast food and restaurant options only a few minutes away, making your own food often seems like something reserved only for people who have time on their hands.Our lives move so fast in school. Class, friends and getting over that nagging hangover. But cooking has taught me that some things, often the best ones, take time. The most complicated recipes are usually delicious. As much as I love a good five-minute meal, the times I have forced myself to do something difficult have been when I’ve surprised myself with my ability. Wherever I live after graduation, I’ll be tempted to stick to my pasta and fried chicken recipes, the staples that I rely on when I don’t feel like digging through online recipes. Those foods are like a worn-in shirt that always feel right and looks good. But as you try new things — even ones that are difficult and uncomfortable — you force yourself to grow. Each year of college was harder than the last, because if you didn’t get better at school, your mind would atrophy — yes, I learned that word in school. Cooking has taught me that. As easy as it is to stick to my tried-and-true meals, I know that my mind, and my stomach, will get bored easily if I don’t find new foods to add my palate.That’s really all I want after graduation. More recipes, a new city and an exciting job. I just want an adventure.
(04/13/11 10:00pm)
____simple_html_dom__voku__html_wrapper____>The sandwich. It is the best staple for any college student. It’s healthy, filling and, if made right, delicious.But like most foods, the sandwich is stuck in a rut. Most people put the same toppings on their sandwich every single time, not leaving room to experiment.See, what’s so wonderful about the sandwich is that it is an open canvas, a perfect outlet to explore what you like about other types of food and put them in between two pieces of bread.Deciding how to add some variety to your sandwich is as hard as wandering the aisles of Kroger. There’s almost nothing that you can’t put on a sandwich — your only limit is your imagination.So instead of a recipe this week, I’ve listed suggestions for you for when you decide to spice up your sandwich. Breads:Pepperidge Farm 15-Grain:This bread has been a favorite of mine for several years. It’s hearty but soft. It’s one of the few breads that has a variable texture. This bread isn’t just a supporting actor in the sandwich; it’s the main act.Challah:Growing up in a Jewish household, I was lucky enough to occasionally have challah. The braided bread is perfectly sweetened and thick enough to hold any number of toppings.French bread:You can buy a fresh loaf of French bread for less than $2 at Kroger or Marsh, and it’s big enough to make a hoagie or sub.Toppings:Fruit: There’s no rule that says sandwiches can have vegetables only. Adding fruit to your sandwiches can add texture, balance taste or create a completely different flavor. o Apple slices o Grapes o OrangeVegetables: Lettuce and tomato are the usual vegetable toppings for a sandwich. But the following are good alternatives if you’re sick of the usual stuff. o Celery o Alfalfa sprouts o ArugulaSpices: It’s pretty rare for a sandwich to call for fresh herbs and spices, but adding just a couple of leaves can make your sandwich go from an easy fix to a carefully crafted meal. o Cilantro o Basil o MintSauces:Pesto:This sauce is usually reserved for pasta dishes, but it can also be a unique addition to any sandwich. The trick here is not using too much or it can overpower the other flavors in your sandwich.Honey mustard:I am a lifelong devotee of honey mustard, and using it on sandwiches is a different option than regular mustard. Instead of adding spice, you add sweetness to your sandwich.Bleu cheese:Bleu cheese is probably my favorite dressing, and its tangy taste is something that you usually don’t get in a typical sandwich.Meats:Flavored deli cuts:When I buy turkey for my sandwiches, I usually try to go for the Cajun-flavored cut. Sandwiches can be bland, and adding some flavored deli meat is an easy way to add some complexity to your sandwich.Flank steak:It’s easy to think of sandwich meat as the usual deli cuts, but adding meat like flank steak can make your dull sandwich into a gourmet feast.
(03/30/11 6:57pm)
____simple_html_dom__voku__html_wrapper____>Every kid has it: the one breakfast that you used to beg your parents to make. For some, it’s blueberry pancakes, waffles or scrambled eggs. For me, it was French toast. Except in my house, it was called grenki. Growing up in a family of Ukrainian-Jewish immigrants, I didn’t have bacon and sausages for breakfast. It was usually blintzes, either big ones with jam or small ones with apples cooked in. But my favorite breakfast treat was grenki. My mother, as all mothers can do, made the best grenki. The bread was always sliced evenly, lightly fried and perfectly crispy. When I got older, I tried making my own, but the bread was always too thin and would stick to the pan.I later learned that the key to making perfect grenki is making sure the pan is heated before adding the bread. Before turning the stove on, I like to add about a teaspoon of oil to the pan and using a paper towel, rub it across the entire pan. Then, I turn on the heat and wait a couple of minutes. Add two more teaspoons of oil, and take the pan by the handle to distribute the oil around. Wait another minute before adding the bread. It’s important to heat the pan carefully because otherwise the egg coating will stick to the pan and not to the bread. It’s the attention to detail that I didn’t use when making grenki in my mother’s kitchen, puzzled as to what maternal superpowers she had that I didn’t. I like making grenki because they’re simple and delicious. But they also remind me of home and those countless weekend mornings of waking up to a delicious smell, knowing that breakfast was ready. IngredientsTwo eggsWhole milk, half-and-half or whipping cream (I find this tastes better than using regular milk)French loafOptional toppings: confectioner’s sugar and fruit, preferably strawberriesdirections1. Heat up oil in pan2. Slice bread in half-inch slices3. Whisk the eggs and cream in a bowl until mixed4. Dip bread in the bowl until thoroughly coated5. Fry bread until it is dark brown (make sure not to burn)6. Serve with optional confectioner’s sugar and strawberries
(03/09/11 11:20pm)
____simple_html_dom__voku__html_wrapper____>A friend of mine came over yesterday for gossip and chocolate cake. As I served her a piece of my devil’s food chocolate cake with whipped cream, strawberries and cream cheese and chocolate frosting, she said, “I wish I could cook.”I used to say that a lot too. And living in the dorms for two years only made it easier to put off learning to cook. At school, I had Gresham Food Court. At home, I had Mom. And, as Carrie Bradshaw would say, “I’ve never made anything in the kitchen except a mess ... and a few small fires.”But when I moved into my apartment junior year, suddenly I was the only one feeding myself. My pre-apartment cooking experience was minimal. I had helped my mom make dinner, but I had never made anything by myself, save for a few birthday cakes.I started slow. Chicken and pasta were the easiest options, but the more I cooked, the more I was willing to experiment. I bought different spices and vegetables, carefully trying out new recipes.Like any other skill, cooking takes time, patience and a willingness to make mistakes. If I hadn’t tried to make roast chicken with carrots and potatoes, I wouldn’t have learned that potatoes take about four times as long to make as skinless chicken breasts, and if you cook them together, the chicken will end up dry and stringy and the potatoes will still be hard.Cooking mistakes don’t taste good, but they do always teach you something.I’m more comfortable in the kitchen now than when I started cooking, but I still force myself to try new things. The other night I tried to make fried plantains. Well, my plantains were still soft and under-cooked. Another failure, another chance to learn something.Luckily, I still have another plantain in my fridge and another chance for a perfect meal.Recipe of the WeekChocolate cake:Ingredients:— Devil’s food cake mix— Strawberries (about 2 cups)— Whipped cream— Cream cheese (2 oz.)— Whipping cream or half-and-half (1/2 a cup)— Chocolate chips (about a cup)1) Make the devil’s food cake according to the instructions on the box. You’ll probably need two cake pans for this.2) Once the cake is done, take it out of the oven (and out of the cake pans) and wait for it to cool. If you have a wire rack, place the cakes on it while they chill.3) Set one of the cakes on a plate.4) Frost the cake with whipped cream.5) Cut up a cup of strawberries and place them on top of the whipped cream.6) To make the frosting, combine the cream cheese, whipping cream/half-and-half and chocolate chips in a saucepan on medium. Cook until the cream cheese and chocolate chips have melted and are mixed together.7) Wait for mixture to cool, about 15 minutes.8) Drizzle chocolate frosting on top of the strawberries.9) Place the other cake on top of the one that’s done. Repeat steps 4, 5 and 8 for second cake.10) Place in the fridge and wait for the frosting to harden.11) Serve and enjoy.
(02/24/11 12:30am)
____simple_html_dom__voku__html_wrapper____>There are times when I, a lover of food, don’t feel like cooking. Cooking, if done well, takes time and energy, and when I’m done eating, the stack of dirty dishes makes me wish I had ordered Chinese takeout.But when I don’t want to pay $15 for chicken fried rice, I resort to easy-to-make, not-much-to-clean comfort food. My current favorite? Homemade tomato soup.To me, there are many overrated American staples, like macaroni and cheese from a box and boring peanut butter and jelly sandwiches. But tomato soup with grilled cheese is a filling and healthy meal that always warms my soul even when I’m feeling grumpier than an economics professor.This recipe is perfect while the weather is still cold enough to properly enjoy a bowl of hot soup. The ingredients are also cheap staples, making this meal not only simple for your tired-from-too-much-studying-or-partying brain, but also your bank account. You can usually find canned vegetables on sale for less than 75 cents at the grocery store, which makes this recipe a cheaper alternative to buying a can from Campbell’s.As much as I love the tomato soup and grilled cheese combo, canned soup has never been a personal favorite. But the March issue of “Real Simple” magazine provided a doable tomato soup recipe that I’ve adapted for this column.Up until last week when I purchased this magical magazine, I thought that making soup was like getting an A in economics, only possible for the gifted and overachievers. But with a few ingredients and a working blender, making soup can be easier than ordering from House of Hunan.And like any new skill, learning to make one soup only serves as my inspiration to try others. This will especially come in handy when spring allergies hit, as well as my desire to stay indoors coupled with a good movie and a warm bowl of soup.
(02/10/11 12:54am)
____simple_html_dom__voku__html_wrapper____>Last year on Valentine’s Day, my boyfriend and I decided that instead of eating out, we would make our own special dinner. We picked lasagna, a meal with servings big enough to feed a frat house.The meal required a lot of time, especially cleaning up the tsunami of tomato sauce in my kitchen. It turned out well, but I regret spending so much time cooking when I could’ve enjoyed the holiday.Lesson learned: Keep it simple.As much as I loved the idea of making a big meal for the holiday, I prefer making my boyfriend meals on days that aren’t special occasions.Cooking doesn’t have to be a once-a-year event. You can throw together a simple pasta dish (see sidebar) in less than an hour with minimal effort and cost. If you’re really lazy, you can buy a nice jar of pasta sauce instead of making your own.This tip is especially for the boyfriends. I don’t remember the times my boyfriend has picked up the check, but I do remember every meal he has made for me.Here’s the difference: When you cook, you’re using your own time to make the meal. And anything that takes time is almost always guaranteed to be more meaningful than something that requires money.Even if you go out for Valentine’s Day, you can still make it a habit to cook for someone else. If you really hate cooking, make a dish together. Each person can bring a similar amount of ingredients, which makes it an activity for the two of you instead of a chore for one person.Valentine’s Day is a day for being grateful for the love you have in your life, and when you love someone, I can’t think of a better way to show that than food. RECIPE OF THE WEEK:Lemon pasta with grilled chicken:Ingredients:* Lemons (you can also use lemon juice)* Pasta (penne works well)* Chicken breasts* Italian cheese* Optional: whipping cream. I only say this is optional because most people don’t use whipping cream in everyday cooking, so I don’t want to recommend something you’ll only use for one meal. But this adds a creamier consistency for the lemon sauce.Directions:1. Defrost the chicken.2. Start boiling the water for pasta. Add pasta once water has boiled.3. Cut the chicken in one-inch strips.4. Grill or saute the chicken.5. Use a regular sauce pan and keep the heat to low. Add a tablespoon of whipping cream, half of a lemon (sliced thinly with the seeds and rind removed), and a sprinkling of whatever Italian cheese you’re using. You can also add minced garlic and Italian seasonings for more flavor.6. Stir the liquid ingredients in the saucepan. Wait until everything is blended together smoothly.7. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees.8. Drain the pasta after it’s cooked. Put the pasta in an oven-proof dish.9. Place the grilled chicken on top of the pasta. Make sure it’s evenly distributed with the pasta.10. Add the sauce to the chicken-pasta combination. Add more cheese on top.11. Place in the oven; wait for the cheese to melt. Check on it after 10 minutes.12. Remove from oven. Serve with a Caesar or garden salad.
(01/27/11 12:47am)
____simple_html_dom__voku__html_wrapper____>I am a huge fan of food. Especially the kind that delivers.It used to be that Mother Bear’s was on my call list more often than my parents. But since graduation — and student loans — are so close on the horizon, I’ve cut back on eating out.But my love for pizza hasn’t dwindled just because I’m no longer a regular with the Mo Bear’s delivery people. So when I get a craving for pizza, I only need to stop at Kroger and pick up the necessary ingredients.Pizza is also great as a starter dish for people who aren’t used to cooking, don’t enjoy it as a hobby or only see it as a way to keep themselves alive. It’s easy to make, and since you’re completely in charge of all the ingredients, you really can’t make something you don’t like.You can buy a premade crust from the store, like I do, use a loaf of French bread or make your own, if you really feel like putting off homework. You can pick out a variety of sauces, including pesto and vodka sauce. Or try making your own marinara, which is about as difficult as figuring out how to spell your own name.But pizza isn’t the only restaurant food you can make from scratch. When I get a craving for my Southern roots, I whip out my skillet and fry up some chicken, make mashed potatoes and open a still-good can of corn. After spending a summer in London, I came back to Bloomington with an empty bank account and love for curry. So when I saw a recipe online, I tried making it, and it worked.Too often people assume that restaurants are the only places where you can find really good food. While I haven’t reached Gordon Ramsay status yet, experimenting in my kitchen has shown me so many times that whatever I’m craving, I can usually make.It might not be as good as something I could order off a printed sheet of paper, but so what? Anything you make is better simply because you made it. It’s the personal attachment I have to my food that makes it so delicious. It’s mine. Every part of the process came from me. So this beautiful dish not only tastes good, it also makes me feel good.There’s also a satisfying sense of accomplishment I get whenever I make something tasty. School and work are stressful, but cooking is always relaxing. Even when I mix up the recipe or forget an ingredient, it’s rarely a disaster. There are no midterms or finals in the kitchen.Even though this pizza recipe is near fool-proof, most recipes aren’t. Sometimes that crucial step you skipped in the recipe was essential. Sometimes you’ll feed your boyfriend’s parents under-cooked chicken wings. But every mistake, kitchen or otherwise, will only help you become a better cook. And even though you’re not being graded on your food, you are supposed to learn.Recipe of the Week: Homemade PizzaIngredients: * Pizza dough * Cheese (use whatever you like) * Toppings (I like green peppers and red onions, but anything goes here) * Sauce (again, whatever you like) * Olive oilTools:* Basting brush Instructions: 1. If you’re using premade pizza dough, follow the directions on the package for preheating and thawing. 2. Use the brush to coat some olive oil on the pizza. 3. Use the brush to add sauce. 4. Add cheese. 5. Add toppings. 6. Add more cheese on your toppings. 7. Put in the oven for however long the directions say, usually no more than 10 minutes.