Crystallize: December 2014 Mini

December 2014

the mini

MODA the mini: CHLOE KARASKIEWICZ Editor-in-Chief Deputy Editor Caroline Kreul Art Director Jesse Tovar Fashion Editor Paige Schultz Lifestyle Editor Jennifer Anderson Social Editor Barbara Gonzalez Men’s Editor Andrew Connor Photography Director Roberto Leon Contributing Writers Alexa Carlson, Dan Kershner, Darby Hoffman Frankie Hermanek, Jake Hollister, Jessica Hamilton Haley Nippert, Meg Rotter, Phebe Myers, Xinyi Wang Photographers Alexandra Folino & Roberto Leon Models Adriana Gonzalez & Shannon Skebba

2 | December 2014

letter from the editor

W

inter in Wisconsin is not just chilly, it’s frigid. Snow, ice, freezing rain, whipping winds and punishing temperatures are just parts of life on our little isthmus, and though we are all guilty of griping about the weather, there is no denying just how magical the winter can be.

Crystalline icicles glimmer on the top eaves of buildings, brand new snows blanket the landscape, turning sharp edges to rounded corners as the hush of midnight flurries falls as fast as the snow.

December brings the hectic holidays, term papers, the universally dreaded group project, and of course finals. But something about a fresh snow, undisturbed and perfect in its serenity, is magical enough to brighten any day.

This month, we are inspired by the weather. Not just to layer up as Alexa Carlson teaches us to effectively combat the cold, but by the beauty of a crystallized world that only comes this time of year (even if it does last until May).

Tiny flakes create mountains that stop traffic and bury houses, bringing with them power and might that continues to hold the world in awe. Phebe Myers holds us accountable for the contributing pieces that together have brought our educational system to its knees, with its particular failings to students of color. Our actions, however small they seem in comparison to the world, have merit, but it is only together that we can affect change.

From our family to yours, we wish you happy holidays. May your feet stay warm and your finals be over soon!

Chloe December 2014 | 3

By Darby Hoffman

BEYOND YOUR Tips for “rocking” one of fashion’s latest jewelry trends.

T

he earthy trend of gem and stone jewelry has made an appearance everywhere from runways to Pinterest feeds, producing a versatile fashion statement wearable for anyone. Varying in size, color, texture and price, the recent rise of the rock jewelry empire integrates a touch of nature into the glamour of individual style. On one end of the spectrum, stringing a single crystal along a dainty gold or silver chain draws the eye to the iridescent accessory and projects an aura of simplicity. On the other, by combining pieces of various sizes and degrees of prominence, one can create a visually complex display of a wide range of stylish elements. Follow these three tips to stylishly rock your rocks.

TIP #1: STACK Layering pieces of different lengths and sizes is the jewelry equivalent of donning your winter layers: simple and best in threes. Choose one stone to be the focal point, while complementing it with at least two other solid, simple pieces. For raw rock necklaces, pair a more conspicuous crystal with several more modest chains or charms to avoid overwhelming your outfit.

A Birch for Monday

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BIRTHSTONE TIP #2: MATCH When wearing multiple necklaces or bracelets with a pair of earrings, opt for pieces with similar color and texture. This goes for the chains as well as the gems. Pairing simple, similar pieces together ensures a streamlined and effortless look.

Cosa Fina Raw Collection

TIP #3: BALANCE To keep all eyes on your sparkly accessories, rock jewelry is best paired with neutral clothing. For the most dramatic presentation, choose either a solid-colored top, or one with an extremely subtle pattern to limit any distraction from your jewelry.

OOAK Jewelry December 2014 | 5

SUGAR SCRUB A DUB DUB Written and photographed by Jessica Hamilton, Lifestyle Writer

Holiday cookies and eggnog aren’t the only sweet ways to enjoy sugar this season.

Refresh your skin during the harsh, dry winter with exfoliating sugar scrubs.

W

hy sugar? Sugar’s properties allow it to draw moisture from the environment onto your skin. It is also a great exfoliant: removing dead skin cells and exposing the healthy, supple skin underneath. This new skin is better apt to retain moisture from the air, generating long lasting, moisture-retaining results.

Because of the grainy texture of scrubs, recommended use is two to three times per week, so you don’t over-scrub your skin. If your skin is more sensitive, opt for a gentler, brown sugar scrub.

There are many sugar scrubs offered during the wintertime. The Deep Steep sugar scrubs are great for exfoliating and moisturizing damaged skin. They are made with brown sugar, so they are more delicate than other scrubs. I use both the brown sugar-vanilla scrub, which smells like warm sugar cookies, and the passion fruit-guava scrub, which reminds me of summertime.

The scrub’s consistency is similar to a thick,

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grainy paste that becomes gel-like when mixed with the hot shower water. If you typically moisturize daily from head to toe, you can skip body lotion on the days you scrub because they leave your skin feeling soft, like shea butter. These scrubs offer a noticeable difference to your skin that lasts for hours. And, the sweet aromas that emerge from the scrubs in the shower are therapeutic, perfect for when you are winding down from a long day, or you need a midday refresh.

Don’t have time to shop for a sugar scrub?

Making your own is just as easy! For a vanillacoconut scrub: combine ½ cup coconut oil, ½ cup brown sugar and ½ teaspoon vanilla. Depending on how coarse you want your scrub, you can add more sugar.

If you have skin prone to dryness and want a sweet solution, consider using a sugar scrub. Store bought or homemade, these scrubs will make your skin look brighter than the snow crystals outside, and they will leave your skin moisturized despite the dry, frigid air.

SPICE UP YOUR WINTER WITH CANDIED GINGER Beat a winter cold with delicious, easy-to-make, candied ginger Photo by The Delicious Life

By Xinyi Wang

I

t seems as though winter came much earlier this year. The blowing wind brings us not only a sense of overwhelming coldness, but also inevitable illness. First, we begin to cough and sneeze, and then, almost without warning, the cold and fever take over. We need a remedy to resist the harshness this winter.

Looking for the right medicine? Ginger is the best choice. Ginger is an ancient Chinese medicine used to heal ailments of the stomach and lung. The zingiberene inside of ginger effectively protects our stomach and the spice drives away any coldness.

Ginger candy is a great option for a snack that you can bring to class that deliciously cuts the raw, natural spiciness of plain ginger. Candied ginger is an easy-to-make food that will warm your days.

Ingredients: 1 pound of fresh ginger 5 cups of water 1 pound bag of sugar (I used 6-8 teaspoons for this batch)

Directions: 1. Peel the ginger and cut into small pieces.

2. Heat the water until it boils, and then put the ginger in.

3. Wait for 40-45 minutes for the ginger to soften on medium heat. Drain the ginger.

4. Save 1/4 of the water, put 6-8 tsp sugar in the pot.

5. Shut off the heat and wait for the ginger to cool down.

6. Store the ginger candy in a jar. Eat the ginger anytime you feel a cold coming on.

TIPS: 1. Put the candied ginger in hot water with a tea bag for a cold night.

2. Eating ginger regularly makes your body stronger and can help with digestion, so don’t just save it for when you’re sick!

December 2014 | 7

THE FROSTED

MUG Dive into the best seasonal brews.

By Dan Kershner, Men’s Writer

I

t’s a great testament to Madison’s unweathered school spirit that such a large student body musters the strength to thrive in a winter wasteland year after year. Although we knowingly subject ourselves to the discomforts of life on the frozen tundra, we’ve rarely had a problem warming our souls during the cold months. Thankfully, this city campus is something of a winter oasis, one where pristine white powder, three point buckets, and some of the most excellent beers on earth consistently rain down on us through the thick of the winter months.

All photos from ratebeer.com 8 | December 2014

Societies have been brewing seasonally oriented beers since Scandinavian pagans celebrated the winter solstice.

Since then, brewers have refined a basic framework for the perfect “winter warmer.” General consensus stipulates that a great winter beer should be darker and richer in taste and consistency than lighter, airy, summer beers. Often, this means that the beers associated with winter are variations on darker ales, brewed at higher temperature and containing more full bodied flavors associated with inherently more diverse chemical cultures in the brew. Dark winter ales have also been known to infuse seasonal spices such as clove, coriander, white pepper, cinnamon, rich fruits like dates, raisins, and plums, as well as other robust foodstuffs like coffee beans, oats, chocolate, and caramel. Finally, winter beers should be more potent, adding layers to your “liquid jacket,” and typically range from high sixes to near tens in alcohol by volume.

Naturally, variations on this feast in a glass have been lapped up by the craft brew explosion.

As residents of Madison, we all live, at most, two miles from some of the deepest beer stocks in the country.

Hopefully before graduation, Wisconsin students will have at least attempted to branch out from Pabst, Miller and Bud to pursue a more specialized beer drinking education.

Before delving into our winter syllabus, it’s worth mentioning that this journey isn’t for the faint of heart. Not all of the following beers are widely available, suited to every palate, or super affordable. Again, quality over quantity is the undisputed mantra of winter warmers. If you’re looking for the Wisconsin way to thaw your frozen ass out and welcome yourself into more luxurious, cozy, and sumptuous winter feels, these selections and those like them are more than worth your time.

To start the conversation off on a relatively lighter, sweeter note, Arena Wisconsin brewer Lake Louie offers up a scotch ale batch specifically for the 2014 season which has no close peer in flavor profile. The reserve batch of their renowned scotch-ale “Warped Speed” is shipped in from just an hour out of Madison; freshness is guaranteed.

For a couple more months, the reserve has a limited release in select stores, and, more conveniently, fresh on tap at local bars, the best of which for our purposes is the Old Fashioned. The beer pours rich amber topped off with a moderate head of foam, but things get really interesting when giving the brew a whiff. It smells more than vaguely of yogurt parfait and milkshake, combined with the slight alcoholic woodiness derived from time aging in the bourbon barrel. The beer is far from sour milky -- instead, drinking very beery and giving off flavor notes of mellowed bourbon, fragrant hops, and leaving a short, but pleasantly familiar malt afterglow to finish off this 9.0% ABV special.

The ale is definitely more fruit-cake then honey

glazed ham in terms of weight, but that’s not to say that it won’t work its deep, airy potency on your taste buds.

Next comes the main course, a delectable inky black stout which is the café nero Italian double espresso to Guinness’s burnt Mickie D’s pour over. The java metaphor here is apt because the Founders Breakfast Stout is literally brewed with Sumatran and Cona coffee beans, as well as bitter chocolates and flaked oats. Near jet black in color and floating a filmy, shimmering head, the beer’s texture is more far more syrupy than fizzy. Not surprisingly, it reeks of fine roasty joe. Right off the bat, its rich coffee blend takes center stage, soon giving way to a body bitter in the chocolaty and hoppy senses, but balanced by a silky smooth wave of alcoholic caramel and sweet malt. Like a strong cup of coffee, the beer’s flavors linger for a very long finish, continuously waking up every inch of the palate. Tap and glassware used in a bar setting give the Breakfast Stout’s diverse flavors plenty of room to breathe but by all means, do not pass on picking up a sixer of the black gold sold in stores through December.

For desert, we have a great palate cleanser in New Glarus’ Pumpkin Pie Lust. But rather than seemingly cashing in on the exhausted pumpkin spice trend chase, Pumpkin Pie Lust is a beer which is understated and elegant in executing its holiday flavor profile -- albeit one that is hard to recommend as accompaniment for much other than winter seasonal eats like roast ham, gingerbread, or mild cheese. This is a burnt orange Wisconsin wheat brew, thin and punchy in texture and flavor respectively. It smells of cinnamon, tangy fruit, and graham cracker, the first of which hits hard and fast, amplifying its robust carbonation.

Distinct but never overbearing, Pie Lust’s initial spiciness leaves as quickly as it came, making way for a crisp ale body and terse dry finish.

Look for bottles where deep New Glarus stocks are kept.

December 2014 | 9

I Don’t Care If You Hate

By Frankie Hermanek

Sustaining individuality in the face of fashion criticism.

“H

ey, I just wanted to say thank you for not wearing those hideous mom shorts. They’re actually the un-sexiest thing ever.” It was August 2012 when I heard this rather bizarre compliment, if you can even call it that, at Lollapalooza. The random young man was clearly unsettled by the onslaught of this trend; unfortunately for him, the comeback of the highwaist shorts was alive and all around.

I, too, did not understand the newest fashion kick, although my best friend had just snagged a pair from Topshop. I wasn’t able to pull of the look, but she certainly could, and regardless of my feelings toward the shorts, I supported the style because it made her feel confident and beautiful. She had decided to wear them to the festival and was rather perturbed by this everso-knowledgeable individual--and how could I blame her?

Flash forward to last week when I glanced at my Facebook feed and was reminded of my odd encounter. An article, “23 Trends Guys Hate (But Women Love),” from Huffington Post, had just come into view. Curiosity got the best of me and, as I expected, high-waist shorts made it onto the list among other trends like bandeau bikinis, floppy hats, hair bows, leggings, bangles, and oversized sweaters.

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My Pants As I scrolled down the rest of the list, which was not brief, it occurred to me that men have a plethora of opinions on women’s clothes. From my perspective, it seemed as though a woman couldn’t wear anything without being deemed “unattractive.”

And this is when I stopped myself – when did impressing people we’re attracted to become the incentive of my wardrobe selections? Better yet, when did fashion, an outlet of individual expression, revolve around the opinions of someone else? By allowing a potential partner to dictate how we dress, we fall into a dangerous pattern: relying on someone else to make us feel beautiful. Fashion is about empowerment, not submission.

As I recall that day at Lollapalooza, I wish more than anything that I had the nerve to counter that person’s comment. Sure, he could have his opinion and I probably couldn’t change his definition of “sexy,” but the next time he, or anyone else for that matter, decides to suddenly announce that opinion, he shouldn’t expect a woman to transform into eye candy at the expense of her individualism. Our personal style is what should make us feel on top of the world – not the approval of someone else. Go ahead and wear your highwaist shorts, your bangles and your floppy hats.

Regardless of what you’re wearing, your unique expression will radiate power and confidence. In the end that’s all that really matters.

Photo credits: On the left: high-waisted shorts, Bella + Canvas Top image: via camillestyle.com Bottom: floppy hat - Etsy.Com December 2014 | 11

FIRE & ICE

By Meg Rotter, Lifestyle Writer Shannon Skebba photographed by Alexandra Folino Hair and Makeup by Meg Rotter

Enhance your makeup game by bringing some heat to winter’s shades of cool.

Color and style allow us to express our inner emotions and unspoken thoughts. Universally, white has become the symbol of innocence and has come to represent purity over centuries in Western culture.

Conversely, black is frequently associated with death and mystery. Every day, color has the power to shape our moods and actions. Wearing warmer tones can reflect a more positive attitude and entering a room that has few sources of light can leave us feeling tired and forlorn.

Each winter, we must be prepared to be bombarded with snow and ice. Our environment morphs into a bleak, white landscape of snow complete with a sea of black parkas. Beat the winter blues and create your own expression through the colorful use of makeup. Instead of separating colors, try new combinations for fierce looks. A gorgeous mulberry lip color or an unexpected golden glow can brighten any winter landscape. Complement your icy tones and basic blacks with a little fire this season.

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LOOK 1: FIRE The bold, bright look of these smoky eyes and the voluptuous curls project an untamed beauty. The warmth of the red and gold hint to an inner swelling of emotion. The final touch of icy, cool lips merges the two worlds together in a melodic combination.

LOOK 2: ICE These cool-toned, shimmery eyes and natural face are reminiscent of a snow queen. Imagine Frozen’s Elsa, embracing the cold rather than running from it. The bold scarlet lips compliment the powerful coolness of the face, forming a look that boasts fierce and fearless style.

BREAKING THE

ICE

A Fan’s Perspective on the Ongoing Hockey Season

S

ieve! Sieve! Sieve! It’s a cheer that echoes out across the ice after each goal at every ice hockey game, regardless of whether you’re in the Kohl Center or at the nearby LaBahn Arena. “Sieve,” of course, refers to the tendency of the other team’s goalie to let the puck in, just like the cooking utensil lets flour through. The crowds are rowdy, the cheers are

definitely creative, and the sport itself is unlike any other. Though not nearly as big on campus as football or basketball, hockey certainly has its place among the great UW sports.

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Written and Photographed by Haley Nippert, Social Writer

It’s been a rough start of the season for the men’s ice hockey team here on the UW campus.

Led by Head Coach Mike Eaves and Captains Brad Navin and Chase Drake, the Badgers haven’t won a single game either at home or away.* In a recent series against number two ranked North Dakota, the Badgers pulled two hard losses, which included being outshot by at least two to one in both games and a goal scored on their own net.

But that’s not to say there isn’t amazing potential for the rest of the season. The team showed better puck control and a solid passing

game in their last two home games, and with a group of 11 freshman joining the team this year, there is a lot of room for development as a team.

Also of note is goalie Joel Rumple, who has gone above and beyond in his defensive duties, pulling

off amazing saves despite being bombarded with shots. If the Badgers can increase their shots on goal and keep the puck from their end of the rink, there’s no reason they can’t become one of the best teams on the ice.

The women’s hockey team, coached by UW alumnus Mark Johnson, has had a much better start, winning 13 of their last 16 games and ranking 3rd in college polls. In their most recent series played on home ice at LaBahn Arena, the Badgers, led by team captain Blayre Turnbull, swept the Minnesota State Mavericks. They had nearly five times as many shots on goal as the Mavericks and outscored them by four times in game one, beating them 8-0 in game two. A highlight of the series was when freshman forward Annie Pankowski performed a hat trick in game one, scoring three goals by the third period. The team shows impressive skill, keeping control of the puck and knowing exactly where their teammates are when passing on the ice--all the while retaining their speed and precision. It’s easy to see that this team is incredibly well conditioned and functions well as a unit. It will be exciting to see where the team goes this season!

Though the team is clearly the intended focus of each game, the element that really makes a good hockey game is the crowd. From my experience, hockey crowds are rowdier and raunchier than any other, which makes it all the more entertaining.

I’ve never heard more creative cheers, and by that I mean it’s generally a free for all in terms of what comes out of people’s mouths. What’s interesting is that the most violent and charged cheering I’ve heard has been at the women’s hockey games. It is not uncommon to hear “Face off! Face off! Rip her face off!” chanted by the three man cheer squad

that’s present at every game, and often they’ll make up cheers as the game goes along. Looking out across the student section at men’s games is a sight to behold, with a red sea of constantly moving bodies. Fair warning, no one sits during the game in the student section, as I found out the hard way.

The saddest thing is that even though the crowds are always pumped at the beginning of the game, when the going gets tough, they quit. In the last period of the men’s series against North Dakota, there was a mass exodus from student section. Not only does this highlight the fans’ low morale, but it also shows a lack of support for the team. If you do get the chance to head out to a game, stay until the end to show some support for your fellow Badgers! Be sure to head out to some of the women’s hockey games as well. They tend to draw smaller crowds, but they deserve just as much recognition for their level of play.

Season tickets are still on sale for both teams, but single game tickets can also be purchased for a reduced student price at the gate before each game. *As of November 24, 2014

Upcoming Home Games Women’s Ice Hockey: December 5th at LaBahn Arena v. North Dakota @ 3PM December 7th at LaBhan Arena v. North Dakota @ 2PM Men’s Ice Hockey: December 5th at the Kohl Center v. Penn State @ 8PM December 6th at the Kohl Center v. Penn State @ 8PM

December 2014 | 15

snugology When braving Wisconsin’s polar vortex, dressing fashionably is always an option, but dressing warmly is a priority.

By Alexa Carlson, Fashion Writer

T

he time has come again when we have to brave the elements as we trek to and from class. Whether you were raised on one of the coasts or you’re a native Midwesterner, we all share the struggle of coping with the frigid Wisconsin air for unbearable lengths of time. It’s easy to assume that more clothing automatically equals more warmth, but there is in fact a science to staying warm.

After interviewing my avid outdoorsman father, researching synthetic fabric technology and debunking the often confusing End terminology used in cold weather Land’s Thermaskin clothing ratings, I’ve assembled Heat Pants the ultimate guide to help you stay & Crew perfectly toasty for your daily trips around campus.

Everyone knows layering is the most important rule to staying warm, but how you layer is the key. The optimal amount of layers for day-to-day walking around campus in wintry temperatures is three to four.

Layer 1: Wick This base layer should fit snuggly to your body to cut down on bulk and wick away moisture. It is extremely important that the layer closest to your skin keeps you dry because fabrics that retain moisture, like cotton, will cool you off and leave you feeling clammy. Other fabrics, like nylon and rayon, also have high moisture retention and high thermal conductivity (i.e. they pull heat away from your body). Silk or polyester, the best fabrics to keep your skin dry, adjust to

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your body’s humidity and heat. Other hightech polyesters include polypropylene and Goretex™.

Layers 2&3: Insulate Depending on the J.Crew Merino temperature, one or Wool Tippi Sweater two insulation layers will do. When choosing these layers, opt for looser-fitting clothing to prevent binding or restriction of circulation, which will reduce your body’s ability to generate its own heat efficiently. The looser layers also allow thin layers of air to form. These layers of air trap your natural body heat, also known as “loft.” To prevent overheating and cooling down as a result of perspiration, these are the layers you should be able to easily remove. Fabrics that work well for these layers are heavy fleece sweatshirts, wool sweaters, and even fur. When choosing wool, merino, which comes from sheep, offers a super soft layer that is slightly kinder to a college student’s budget than its ultra luxurious cousin, cashmere. Fur is also a great insulator because of its dense hairs, which create plenty of “loft” (remember, those tiny pockets where body heat can be trapped). Be it ethical preference or budget constraints, faux fur works just as well as the real deal.

Layer 4: Protect After building up all of that body heat in your insulation layers, your final layer’s function is to keep the heat close to your body. Jackets made out of down or wool are best for this. Wool pea coats offer a dressier look, while down parkas are great for daily wear as they can be found with waterproof and windproof shells to keep moisture out and body heat in. Down jackets have “fill” ratings which show how much down occupies a given amount of space in the coat. The higher the fill, the warmer it is. When it comes to everyday wear, look for down jackets with a 500-600 “fill.”

On your lower body, you can get away with two to three layers. Silk or polyester long-underwear layered with fleece leggings or tights under a looser-fitting pant or pair of jeans will work wonders (cue boyfriend jeans). But the layering doesn’t stop there. After taking care of your tops and bottoms, you’ll need to finish off your ensemble with some cold-weather accessories.

Urban Outfitters Oversized Geo Blanket Scarf

J.Crew Chateau Parka

SOCKS

Wicking and insulating layers are vital in socks because there is nothing worse than cold feet. Start with a thin silk or polyester sock and layer with a wool pair on top SCARVES for dry, toasty toes.

Use big, chunky scarves to prevent heat from escaping out of the top of your coat. Polyester, merino and cashmere are all great options. Chunky knits and blanket scarves will provide lots of cozy volume and protect you MITTENS/GLOVES from the wind.

Mittens are superior to gloves as they let your fingers collectively generate heat. Layering gloves underneath mittens gives you the heating benefits of mittens and the dexterity of gloves if you need to use your fingers. Consider touchscreencompatible gloves as they allow you to use your phone without exposing your fingers to the winter chill.

HEADGEAR

Urban Outfitters BDG Basket Weave Fleece-Lined Mitten

Contrary to popular belief, most of your heat does not escape from your head. However, it is still important to cover up whether it is with a slouchy beanie, furry earmuffs or a knit headband. Keeping your hood up generates heat around your face for added warmth.

A&F Pom-Pom Knit Beanie

J.Crew SmartWool Socks

BOOTS

Look for boots that are waterproof, have plenty of insulation and have good traction.

Make sure you buy a size that allows you plenty of space to fit multiple socks and leaves a layer of air for heat generation. As a rule of thumb, think to buy half a size larger than you normally wear. Different brands use different insulators in their boots. Thinsulate™, used by both L.L. Bean and Sorel, is super thin and warm even when it’s wet. Primaloft®, L.L. Bean Boot featured by The North Face, is extremely lightweight. Finally, shearling, most well known in Uggs, provides superb comfort--just make sure you buy a model that has good traction. December 2014 | 17

FROZEN WASTELAND

ADRIANA GONZALEZ PHOTOGRAPHED BY ROBERTO LEON

TREADS Forget dodging snow and ice: stay on top with Midwest-vetted winter footwear.

By Jake Hollister

T

he Wisconsin winter has finally arrived with its first substantial snowfall of the year in mid-November. As hordes of UW-Madison students gear up to brave the conditions on the way to class, they may look down at their feet and realize that the cool, new pair of sneakers they just bought may not have been the best choice for braving the Madison winter. Though they may look cool, slipping and falling down Bascom Hill most definitely is not.

To avoid this painfully embarrassing experience, consider sliding into one of these stylish yet practical pairs of winter shoes.

risen to the top of the list for men’s work boots, contending with popular brands like Timberland.

The 405 model is a great mix between the classic 875 work boot and the modern Chukka. Each pair is made from Red Oak Mesa Leather, and is insulated to keep the toes nice and cozy. The shoe is also waterproof and non-marking, making it more versatile. The tread is made of rubber and designed specifically for weather-beating traction.

Not only is the 405 extremely utilitarian, it also works with any pair of pants thrown its way. If you’re looking for a pair of shoes that will totally obliterate the possibility of slippage, the Red Wing brand is a great place to start.

In today’s winter boot market, it’s hard to find a useful boot that can also jive with any outfit.

But to make it through the tough, Wisconsin winters, a boot has to be able to grip well with deep treads as well as provide consistent warmth.

One boot that comes to mind is the Red Wing 405 6-inch boot. Over the years, Red Wing has

Other companies aim to reconcile shoes with tough winters as well. Palladium, a company that has been around since 1920, has been putting its spin on the Pampa boot since 1947. Birthed from the Second World War, the Pampa boot features a mix of canvas with durable soles originally meant

Nike Sneakerboot 24 | December 2014

Palladium Leather S Baggy Boot

for fighting a very mobile war. Since adopting this style as their main selling point, Palladium has continued to modify the model, making it more comfortable and stylish as the years have gone by. The Baggy S Leather Model has been tweaked to perfectly fit Midwest winters. Inspired by bomber jackets, this model comes equipped with deep treads, a 2 piece sole, and 100% wool lining. Thanks to their classic work wear appeal, these shoes will keep the owner high (in fashion) and dry this upcoming winter.

winter fashion. Coming in a wide range of colors, models, and material, the Sneakerboot line hopes to reach every kind of sneakerhead out there.

After perusing the 2014 collection, there’s no doubt that this type of winter shoe could become the style of the future.

Traditionally not known for their winterstyle shoes, Nike has been looking for a way to revamp some of their more popular sneaker lines, transforming them into functional boots for trudging through snow. This concept was made manifest in their recent line of Sneakerboots.

Boasting deeper treads, higher ankle support, and a waterproof exterior, the new line of 2014 Nike Sneakerboots hopes to be the next big thing in

Red Wing 405

December 2014 | 25

AN EDUCATION

By Phebe Myers, Fashion Writer

People often talk about how education is the key to success. But what about those who do not have guaranteed access to this integral foundation?

E

ducation is a topic that often takes a backseat in the American political debate. In a world filled with Ebola outbreaks, ISIS, and a struggle for civil rights even on American soil, do we really need to focus our energy on an educational system that is seemingly succeeding?

Well, yeah, because our education system isn’t succeeding.

Sure, the United States might have some of the best schools in the world, places like Harvard, Princeton, even good ole’ University of Wisconsin.

But in terms of our actual educational attainment, we are ranked 20th in the world. 20th is not so great. 20th doesn’t stand on the podium. No one calls home and says, “Guess what mom! I got 20th place.”

Our system isn’t just decimating in terms of worldwide rankings: it’s failing our students and therefore our society as a whole. As a national community, we recognize the link between high

26 | December 2014

quality education and breaking cycles of poverty.

However, we continually chose to ignore it because education carries with it problems we struggle to admit, let alone address, like racism and structural inequality.

We like to think that Madison is this perfect utopia, where everyone recycles, bikes to work, only eats organic vegetables and all children receive equal access to government services. But that isn’t the case.

The Race to Equity report published in the fall of last year found that “there [was] not a single indicator...analyzed in which African American well-being is on par with that of whites.” And the results in terms of educational differences between races was astounding. Forty eight percent of nonHispanic black 3rd graders were not proficient at reading, compared with just 11 percent of nonHispanic white children in Dane County. In terms of high school graduation rates in the Madison Metropolitan School District, 50 percent of non-Hispanic blacks were earning a high school

diploma in four years compared with 84 percent of non-Hispanic whites.

These issues of educational inequities continue at the campus level too.

“We don’t build bridges where we should,” says Clifton Conrad, Professor of Higher Education at UW Madison. “So many traditionally underserved students in higher education haven’t had the opportunities that other students have had. By traditionally underserved I don’t just mean race, ethnicity, and class but there’s a wide range of these students. So when we are talking about equity, equity for whom?”

We live in a society where racial inequality is pervasive and fueled by inattentiveness to our declining public school systems. No lasting solution has been found for our public school systems, if a solution even exists. Some areas respond by implementing a voucher system, where kids are placed in a lottery, and when chosen are bused away from the public schools and put into charter schools. Is the solution to failing public schools busing students out of their home communities?

On college campuses with diminishing endowment available for scholarships, how can we keep inequity from running rampant?

Higher education and K-12 have separate issues, but addressing students’ problems on a personal level is one clear way to bring about change.

However, when the funds aren’t available for these kind of resources, what can an educator do? This is where the issue becomes political. Instead of spending $3.67 billion on congressional campaigns to create further partisan divide, our government should invest in our nation’s future. Further implementing policies that focus on strengthening education in impoverished areas, that work at addressing the root of poverty and inequality in this country will help to build America up from the bottom.

America is a country founded on the strength of individual liberties. In order for us to revamp that legacy again, we have to work to combat educational inequities and the cycle of poverty.

Professor Conrad believes that university administration should take a different approach when addressing educational inequities.

“If we are going to improve access for all, we have to move away from the ‘one size fits all’ model,” said Conrad. “Students coming to college have all different kinds of challenges and we have to address those individually. We need to take these students one at a time, rather than assume they all have the same problems.”

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