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Holiday Shopping Guide

Almanac’s elves have once again scoured the campus and its environs to find the most interesting gift ideas that are readily available right outside our door or not too far down the street. Their findings are arranged by type of gifts: Bath & Beauty | Books/Video/Music | Patriotic Presents | Wearables | Tech/Electronic | Holiday/Decorative | Housewares | Food/Drinks | Toys | Stationery and Outside-the-Box

Bath & Beauty | Books/Video/Music | Patriotic Presents | Wearables | Tech/Electronic | Holiday/Decorative | Housewares | Food/Drinks | Toys | Stationery | Outside-the-Box

Bath/Beauty

The Black Cat strives to offer bath and beauty products you will not find in your usual Bath and Body Works. Carrying imported soaps from Portugal ($12.50), various exotic lotions, and a full line of both "Burt’s Bees" and "Dirty Girl" bath sets ($22) , these bath and beauty items are great because they look like they would have taken a world of effort to round up. Browse through this section of the shop, and you will even find quirky leaf-patterned and metallic shower curtains, complete with faux frogs lounging in the tub where these curtains hang.

The Flower Emporium at Penn Tower carries shower caddies full of bath items including soap, body wash, sponges etc., in lots of wonderful fragrances ($42.50).

Vog, the new salon at the Left Bank, has gift certificates for a hair cut and/or color in any amount. Been there, got a great cut and I’m over thirty.

Saturn Club, provides the expected services along with skin care, nail polishes, hair care products, and hair accessories such as head bands and barrettes. Tempted to try a tattoo? The Salon has temporary tattoos for purchase. They have gift sets, some with a picture frame, shampoo and conditioner ($15) while others include a candle instead of frame. Know someone who has tension in their back? Hit the Spot massage tool ($18) is intended to relieve their stress. Gift certificates are available.

Yes, you’ll even find bath items at the Penn Bookstore. They carry a line of products called "Fruit Frappe" which features items like a watermelon exfoliating jam ($9.98) and colorful fruity soaps ($3.98/ea.)–a sweet stocking stuffer. Old Virginia candle company provides the perfect bathtime accessory–their scented candles in fragrances like hazelnut, coffee Irish cream, mocha ($11.98) add spice to the season.

Douglas Parfumerie has gifts for cosmetic needs from-head-to-toe and all the points in-between. Their large Christmas tree displays perfume gift sets like Estee Lauder, Yves St. Laurent, Givenchy, Ralph Lauren, Versace, Gautier and Dior ($35 to $90). Or, make your own gift basket; Douglas has all the raw materials and the wrapping is free, as is the shipping in the continental U.S. Penn ID holders get 10% off any purchase over $25. New to Douglas are a few cosmetic lines. Stila, catering to hipsters young and young-at-heart, provides fresh and unique shades of lip tints and stains ($26) as well as gift sets called "Flaunt" which include fragrant body shimmer with a matching candle. The sets ($38.50) come in green tea, gardenia, jasmine and violet. Also new is PUPA, a line of "mini’s" creatively packaged to mimic electronic equipment and are likened to the colorful I-Macs. PUPA offers compact travel set–shaped like a discman ($35).

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Books/Videos/Music

A new book–Franklin’s Daughters, featuring vignettes of the lives of 23 women pioneers who overcame obstacles to pave the way–arrived at the Penn Bookstore in honor of the 125 Years of Women at Penn Celebration and is still in stock for the feminist historian on your list. A different sort of history of Penn is also at the Bookstore: A Historical and Architectural Guide to the University of Pennsylvania by George E. Thomas and David B. Brownlee. ($40.50) a popular book among architecture enthusiasts; and virtually anyone will treasure University of Pennsylvania: A Photographic Portrait. ($35.98) which depicts some of our campus’s most recognizable as well as hidden beauties. For kids, the Bookstore provides an entire section called "Ben & Me" featuring popular titles such as the Harry Potter and Lord of the Ring series as well as Dr. Seuss, Winnie the Pooh and Eliose. No matter what you are looking for, the Penn Bookstore guarantees you’ll find it with it’s helpful signage and informed staff. On the second floor, be sure to check out titles by Penn faculty members along with Penn Press books and academic texts.

The Music Department, also on the second floor, stands ready to provide holiday shoppers with tunes from most any genre–from classical to pop–folk to jazz and R&B. An added bonus this year is the large selection of the latest DVD titles like Pearl Harbor, Shrek, or The Godfather Collection. DVDs average $20-$30, while CDs average $15. Holiday music starts at $5.99.

The House of Our Own bookstore enters the holiday season with a variety of vibrant, atmospheric decorations to the store including old Victorian ornaments to match the ornate home the store is in. In addition to full sections in feminist theory, country-specific literature and literature by Penn authors, the store will feature fantastic treasures from its used book collection upstairs and discounts on selected new titles. As an added bonus, shoppers can enjoy hot chocolate, coffee, cookies, and other munchies while they browse.

As "The Scholar’s Choice since 1962," The Penn Book Center lives up to its reputation and then some. The store boasts special collections not likely to be found elsewhere, such as Museum Studies, Cognitive Science and Philosophy of the Mind, and Cultural Studies and Critical Theory. Readings of popular interest can be found in collections such as Food and Culture, and even a "Dog Department," with a serious focus on relationships between humans and their beloved pets. Their Children’s Section features richly illustrated selections as well as classics like St. Exupéry’s The Little Prince in Italian, German, Latin, its original French, and yes, even English editions.

The store manager readily suggests popular titles as gifts for others or for yourself like: Chaim Potok’s Old Men at Midnight ($23), poetry by Billy Collins in Sailing Alone around the Run ($21.95), and early American history by Penn’s own Daniel Richter in Facing East from Indian Country ($26). Or on a lighter note, Bill Watterson’s Calvin and Hobbes: Sunday Pages 1985-1995 ($12.95) is always a joy for all ages.

The fantastic selection of both new and used CD’s at Spruce Street Records makes a trip to buy music gifts in Center City unnecessary. The store carries a full catalogue of popular and indie artists at the very reasonable prices of $13.99-$14.99. On one recent visit, the store had hard-to-find gems by Sleater Kinney and Modest Mouse for purchase. If what you’re looking for is unavailable, Spruce Street Records can special order albums, usually obtainable within 24-48 hours of ordering. For the aspiring DJ on your list, check out the small but delicious collection of 12-inch remixes in the back of the store.

The newly expanded Pyramid Shop at the University Museum offers numerous choices for the young reader who, having read all the Harry Potter books might like to dabble into some other tales. They might try Encyclopedia of Eastern Mythology or Myths & Tales of Ancient Egypt, Arabia, Persia, India, Tibet, China & Japan. Lots of other books that are not run-of-the-mill are also here to entertain the kids.

At the Museum Shop this year, in addition to many international ornaments, you’ll find Modern Mongolia: Reclaiming Genghis Khan (paperback $17.95)–a great addition to any coffee table collection and a great compliment to the Museum’s exhibit of the same name. They also have a delightful collection of books on Native Americans, Egypt, and Africa.

Even with its inevitably esoteric subjects, gifts abound at Dolbey’s Medical Bookstore. Help your favorite med student study with the store’s variety of USMLE preparation books on a variety of subjects ranging in price from $14.95-$24.95. Improve any library with the gift of a beautifully illustrated hardback medical dictionary for $49.95. For the anatomy buffs on your list, Dolbey’s has a variety of detailed medical posters on subjects such as diseases of the digestive system and a three-dimensional human body, surely a welcome addition to any wall.

You’ll find little surprise at the Video Library. You can get videos or DVDs of the most recent movies or of the most famous classics. They have set up a holiday display where you will find mostly Christmas videos to entertain kids for just a buck a night. A holiday raffle will be held, so sign up and maybe get free VHS and DVDs! Gift certificates are available if you can’t make up your mind as to what video or dvd to give.

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Patriotic Presents

Steve Madden and TV star Dennis Leary join forces to raise money for New York City’s fallen firefighters with a sneaker called the "Bravest". At $49.95, this white leather sneaker has a 1 5/8" platform and rhinestone flag on the outer upper. A portion of the proceeds will be donated to "The Leary Firefighters Foundation."

Hardtail and Smith Bros. Jeans have teamed up to offer their USA T-shirt ($30). In heather grey or white, the cap-sleeved shirt depicts a small American flag in the center. All proceeds from the sale of this shirt are being donated to the Red Cross.

In the spirit of the season, Douglas Parfumerie offers the Solidarity Set, the Tony & Tina’s cosmetic line’s "Americans Unite" gift set–lip gloss, nail polish and shimmery eye powder ($25). With every set purchased, Douglas will donate $7.50 to the Windows of Hope Family Relief Fund, established in an effort to assist families of people employed at the Windows of the World.

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Wearables

The CHOP Gift Shop has pint-sized doctor and nurse uniforms for the toddler in your life ($18.99).

The Museum Shop has silk ties with Egyptian hieroglyphs, constellations or the sphinx ($32-40), silk scarves in elegant Japanese floral prints; T-shirts with hieroglyphs, Museum or Genghis Kahn exhibit logos. From Egypt, and Southwestern U.S. come necklaces, bracelets and earrings. Gold, silver, and turquoise–the Museum Shop has a collection of jewelry for out-of-the-ordinary gifts. Why not order a personalized cartouche ($60-325) in silver or gold? The Museum Shop’s Surprise Coupon event runs through December 11 and for members on December 12 there’s a special discount sale from 4:30-7:30 p.m.

A family-owned and long-time campus presence, University Jewelers has something classy in every price range for everyone, including watches and jewelry by Seiko, Movado, Dolan-Bullock, Pulsar, and also in various Penn-insignia styles. You can find sterling silver jewelry for $20 or lower, as well as engagement rings of the most priceless quality. Or try a personalized touch this year with their beautiful engraving services (starting at $8).

If unique, handcrafted jewelry is the gift you are seeking, then Black Cat will not disappoint. Adorned with exotic earrings, necklaces, bracelets, pendants, and other accessories, each fashioned individually from various designers, the Black Cat’s selection offers stylish alternatives to your hoop earrings and silver necklaces. Priced moderately (earrings go for about $20), and loaded with sale racks usually boasting 40% discounts, their jewelry collection is most definitely one to be rivaled not only in value, but in creativity.

Modern Eye offers stylish eyewear selections from designers such as Calvin Klein, Ray Ban, Gucci, Hugo Boss, and popular styles by l.a. Eyeworks and Microshades (starting at $49). With the convenience of an optometrist on the premises, there’s no reason not to be sporting some new frames or shades this winter.

Add some sole to the season with new footwear from the Grand Shoe Store. They feature leather boots and shoes including Bruno Valenti boots for women and Steve Madden hipster shoes for men.

Whether your lady is a "Motorcycle Momma" or stiletto lover, Steve Madden has boots, shoes, sneakers and slippers to match many an attitude. They not only carry boots averaging $70, but they also sell coats, bags and accessories. Buy your teen a pea coat ($90) or a corduroy tote bag ($35). Stuff stockings with socks: (3 for $12). Everybody loves the fuzzy slipper, in various patterns, styles and colors ($20). Or, for $20, give your favorite shoe-a-holic a gift that keeps on giving–a "Mad Money" card; with it, they will receive 10% off all purchases for a year.

Whether you are 13 or 30, if you have a hankering for designer labels, then look no further than Smith Bros. Jeans. The newest shop at Sansom Common, Smith Bros. caters to those with an eye on cutting-edge fashion. Tattered, low-waisted, color-washed, purposely worn, boot-cut jeans by designers such as Diesel, Mavi, Parasuco, Kosiuko, Miss Sixty, Juicy, Billy Blues, Buffalo, Earl, Lix and Seven ($50 to $150)–are any hip gal’s best friends. They also carry Puma sneakers as well as jackets, tops, handbags and accessories for the label-conscious. Shopping for an unpredictable fashion plate? They have gift cards available in any amount.

T-shirts, polo shirts, shorts, sweats, pants, jackets, hats, ties, and even boxers all bearing the Penn name and/or insignia are available in the "School Spirit" section of the Penn Bookstore. A must have for any spirited alum or Penn family member is the Penn sweatshirt in traditional red & blue, hooded ($50-$70) or crew ($25).

It’s back to basics this winter at the Gap. Black, gray, brown, tan, crème and white are the dominant colors for most of their clothes, setting a more conservative tone than its vibrant pastels of last year. Though seemingly subdued, the winter line at Gap is far from drab. All the colors of the rainbow are represented in accessories, as if to say, "beauty emerges from the little things." With pro-fleece gift sets ($30) including a hat, scarf and gloves, individually $12.50. For her, Gap offers the supersoft turtleneck ($39) of 50% wool/50% acrylic, with a shaped waist, ribbed neck, cuffs, and bottom. For him, a lambswool cableknit turtleneck ($58) makes a cozy gift. Pajama sets for Mr. or Mrs. Sleepyhead are $29.99. Holiday boxers are buy one-get one free ($12.99). You’ll find toasty socks in candy cane stripes of hot pink and purple as well as wool toboggan scarves available in colors like "espresso, bright pink, snow winter, azalea purple." The hand knit 66" long x 7 3/4" wide scarf has a pull-through slit at end, complimentary color borders are made of 100% wool ($9.99) and are guaranteed to make even the grinchiest person on your list purr with holiday cheer.

Make the holidays special for the Penn-fanatic on your list with a new wardrobe of Penn-wear from Steve and Barry’s. T-shirts are available in an unbelievable number of styles and sizes including babydoll and kids T’s are 2 for $15. Keep your loved ones warm with heavyweight embroidered sweatshirts ($20) and varsity and nylon jackets ($20). The store also has a huge selection of low-priced mugs, cups, and glasses with Wharton and Penn logos.

It may not feel like winter yet, but EMS is like every good Boy Scout: always prepared. Containing everything one needs for outdoor survival and sporting, EMS carries an array of clothes from Patagonia, Columbia and The North Face as well as their own line of clothing and accessories in fleece, knits and polartec. The "zip-in, zip-out" feature to all of EMS outerwear allows its wearers to zip in extra insulation when temperatures drop and zip out to prevent overheating since both shells and insulation are designed to fit together. Jackets are high quality ($90-$250) in an attractive and variegated array of colors. Keep her warm this year with EMS Windstopper Gloves ($23.20). For the stylish yet practical mountaineer, EMS offers Microfleece Zip Mock turtlenecks ($39.99). Besides hiking and ski shoes, EMS also has cozier footwear options like down-filled slippers ($32) and Acorn brand moccasins ($29.99). Hats scarves and gloves too numerous to name, make gift giving a cinch.

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Housewares

The operative theme which dominates this section of the Black Cat is "animal decoration." From marine-themed dinner plates, to soup bowls adorned with bas relief dogs and pigs prancing around the outside ($12), these ceramic items are perfect for the person who likes their dishware to make a statement. The Black Cat also boasts an impressive selection of White Dog/Black Cat kitchenware, such as signature logo glasses and bowls ($8).

Messages is stocked full of gift ideas– among the standouts are its delectable selection of aromatherapy candles, 20% off, its bubble-textured mini-photo albums ($3.99-7.99), and its recently added line of "popcorn posters," consisting of vintage celebrities, movie scenes, and other classic snapshots ($14.95). Messages also carries a collection of picture frames, most of which are 50% off.

Among all its water bottles, thermal travel mugs, thermoses and varied food containers, EMS also offers metal ware such as the five-piece Scout Mess Kit, a lightweight, nesting cook kit for one person. The 7" fry pan with detachable handle, 7" aluminum dish, and 8 oz. cup .75 quart kettle comes with tight-fitting lid and is excellent for backcountry hiking, backpacking, and climbing expeditions ($13). The outdoorsy romantic will surely appreciate a set of GSI Sports Lexan wine glasses, made with lightweight, virtually unbreakable Lexan resin, these 10 oz. glasses are made so the base unscrews and snaps into the bowl section for easy packing ($6/each).

At The Camera Shop, Inc. you can get quality developing of your photos as well as choose from a selection of photo frames (cute Disney and Looney Tunes frames are 40% off), albums, and digital photo services.

The Penn Bookstore has enough housewares to outfit an entire dorm room, from bedsheets and clip-on fans ($15) to space-saving desks ($130) and yaffa block 3-drawer units ($25). Also offered are school-spirited furniture, glassware, picture frames and pennants. A wonderful gift for an office mate is the classic Split P ceramic mug ($6.98). The Bookstore carries wool needlepoint pillows with the Penn seal ($49.98) as well as the Boston Rocker, black with cherry arms and crown ($339.98) and the Heritage Lamp ($199.98) both by Standard Chair of Gardner. What better way to warm up your loved one this holiday than with a 100% cotton handcrafted quilt bearing the split P logo ($84.98).

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Tech/Electronic

Radioshack steers you in the right direction by providing you with a holiday gift guide full of sales! Get a CD/DVD player for less than $150 or an all-in-one Home Theatre Dolby Digital Sound System ($299.99). Already have a cell phone? Hands-free and other accessories make cool gifts. Radioshackhas gifts for children; get a funny designed phone ($50) or a kids’ karaoke handset ($25) and a "Monster Patrol" radio-control car ($75)!

The Camera Shop, Inc. has a wide selection of cameras, digital cameras, video camcorders, digital phones, and camera gear. While you can always check www.ritzcamera.com for the greatest selection and deals, The Camera Shop has special clearance items worth browsing right here on campus.

Take advantage of the academically- priced software and hardware at the Penn Computer Connection, including language learning software ($20-$45). You can buy mouse pads with the Penn seal or M&Ms or artworks by Van Gogh, Toulouse-Lautrec or dogs playing poker. For kids, snap up a little-fingers keyboard ($59) found in the "Edutainment" section. A popular item for the traveling techie is the Kensington Fly Light, a tiny lamp that is powered by your computer ($19). There are MP3 players and Palm Pilots a-plenty for the trendier folks. A neat item is the Smart Pad ($149); it looks like a planner but it allows you to plug your Palm Pilot into it and comes with a pad of paper, which lets users to capture handwritten notes and drawing onto their Palm. Is your loved one overseas this season? Purchase the Logitech Quick Cam Express 2 Pack ($84) and you can keep one and send one to your mate.

The Computer Connection has partnered with Apple and Dell to provide the Penn community with specially-priced computer system bundles, such as significant savings on Dell’s premiere OptiPlex and Latitude computer systems. They are bundled with Windows XP and a 3-year next business day, on-site service warranty. Save $200 and up off already academically-discounted prices with these new Apple Computer bundles, which include iBooks and PowerBooks, Power Mac G4s, and the iPod. Order either Macs or Dells before December 21 and you can also get a free Lexmark Z32 color inkjet printer.

For the techie, EMS has electronic equipment in a range of sophistication and price. The Mini Task Light is a high-powered, white LED keychain light activated by pressing it between your fingers and is waterproof to 10 feet ($16). For the nature lover on the go, EMS offers the SUUNTO Vector Wristop Computer. This is a combination wristwatch, altimeter, barometer and compass with a large, easy-to-read digital display with back-light and is even easy to operate with gloves on ($169.99). And gaining popularity among adventurers is the GARMIN eTrex Vista GPS. It stores maps of North and South America, a barometric altimeter and electronic compass which has additional memory totaling 24 megabytes; and its automatic track log saves up to 10 tracks to retrace your path while operation buttons allowing one-handed use without blocking display ($349).

Bath & Beauty | Books/Video/Music | Patriotic Presents | Wearables | Tech/Electronic | Holiday/Decorative | Housewares | Food/Drinks | Toys | Stationery | Outside-the-Box
Holiday/Decorative

Messages is carrying more creative and more festive holiday adornments than anyone could possibly dream of this season. It offers a wide selection of holiday decorated plates, mugs, ceramic and porcelain figures, A few of the most notable of these items are the Christmas cookie platter ($32.95), the metallic snowmen mugs ($9.95) and the wooden Nutcracker miniature statues. It also offers wonderfully patterned wrapping paper ($8.50), and other gift wrapping supplies. It is one of the few shops to have a collection of Chanukah-oriented gifts too. Rush to Rose’s Florist (both at 36th & Chestnut (Sheraton) and 34th & Walnut locations, Mon.-Fri. 9 a.m.-6 p.m.; 34th & Walnut location only: Sat.-Sun. 10 a.m.-5 p.m.) to place your custom flower, fruit and gourmet basket orders. While you’re there, bring home a decorated miniature Norfolk pine Christmas tree, holiday wreath, or pointsettia of any size. This year, take advantage of Rose’s on the web at: www.uofprosesflorist.com, where you can place online orders and browse their beautiful floral and holiday arrangements.

Need to select a gift before or after work? The Flower Emporium is open Monday-Friday 7 a.m.-7 p.m., Saturday 8 a.m.-3 p.m., closed Sunday. Flowers sent worldwide. Holiday hotline (215) 386-3845; outside Philadelphia (800) 752-7978. Holiday silk flower arrangements, wreaths, poinsettia plants, decorated Norfolk pines, and fresh cut flowers are all available of course.

The HUP Gift Shop sells a tree-shaped box of 12 glass, painted Christmas ornaments ($29.99).

Have you ever seen a Santa on a kayak? Or better yet, riding a grizzly bear or moose? Well, at EMS such woodsy portrayals of St. Nick are available in the form of wood carved ornaments. You’ll also find canoe and ski ornaments in pewter, $8.50 a piece.

The Museum Shop has Polonaise ornaments, along with holiday cards and mugs.

The Pyramid Shop has holiday card sets with stickers, and Christmas ornaments from around the world.

Get your Penn ornaments at the Bookstore, in silver and gold, they add a touch of class to any tree or office, ($14.98-$24.98). An eye-catching and affordable option is the locket closure keepsake ornament ($3.99); you can buy one and put your photos of choice inside, and it makes a wonderful and unique gift for loved ones and acquaintances alike.

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Food/Drinks

HUP’s Gift Shop carries Sweet Shop hand made chocolate truffles in a holiday giving box (7.99).

Flower Emporium at Penn Tower, has fruit and gourmet baskets made to order and delivered and Gertrude Hawks Candy.

If you are looking to impress a boss or relative with your international flare, why not give some of the many imported chocolate bars that Avril 50 carries? With candies from Holland, Belgium, Germany and other countries, these goodies reveal that even chocolate has a cultured side. Another unique item that Avril 50 has is a French Press Coffee Maker ($45.95), a perfect appliance for the coffee aficionado.

The Paper Garden has one of the most coveted, and appetizing gift items of the season, the Jelly Belly Holiday Collection. Stocked in many different sizes, these heavenly Bellies are sure to be a hit among young and old alike. They also have fudge and other holiday delectables that can easily be bagged for a tasty stocking stuffer.

Treat yourself or others to Starbucks’s tasty Christmas blend coffee (16 oz. bag, $11.95). Or, they have four different 8 oz. coffees in a sparkling holiday tin ($22.95). Frosty blue or clear signature mugs ($4.95) and 16 oz. holiday tumblers ($9.95) from Starbucks make delightful stocking stuffers.

New to EMS is the NALGENE 32 oz. Bottle with Lindor balls, a gift set that includes a colorful wide-mouth Lexan water bottle stuffed full of delicious Lindor® chocolate balls. For outdoor enthusiasts and chocolate lovers alike, the bottle is impact- resistant and is easy to clean ($19.50). Old favorites like Toblerone chocolates ($6) and giant Altoids ($9.95) are also available.

Godiva chocolates come in decorative tins and wrapped boxes in festive gold and burgundy, some in red velvety Christmas stockings, others in a sack held by the Godiva teddy bear. Gourmet chocolate is an indulgent gift you can’t deny yourself or loved ones this season, and the Penn Bookstore has Lindor Truffles as well as the official Penn chocolates.

Take a walk to the Left Bank for some shopping this holiday season; you won’t be disappointed. Picnic provides gift certificates and baskets of gourmet foods for someone special on your list; maybe even you. The food is fresh and inventive without being strange. If you want to create your own gift package for someone, they sell Wild Thymes fruit spread and mustard, Bella Vista Farms organic jams, +AZO Teas, Honest Tea and Farmer Steve’s Popcorn, and Metropolitan Bakery breads. Menus are online at www.picnic.biz or call (215) 222-1608.

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Toys

The Paper Garden carries a few of the hottest items on children’s wish lists complete with an array of Beanie Babies including snowmen, reindeer and penguins ($8). Other popular items include gel pens, teddy bears, boardgames and even "Shrek" paraphernalia such as keychains and miniature dolls ($10).

Or stuff those stockings with an adorable little Gund plush animal or colorful vases, candles and frames at Rose’s.

The most popular computer games can be found at the Computer Connection. For kids, why not purchase Harry Potter or Monsters Inc. games ($30)? Adults can enjoy games like "Myst III: Exile"($39.95)–the latest in the popular series of Myst games, full of breathtaking scenery and puzzles to be solved.

On a more playful note, EMS also offers seasonal items such as a plush polar bear, moose or otter in a can ($7.99/ea.); Midnite Snacks Magnetic Chess or Checkers, a board game for travel or refrigerator play ($10); MPH Swiss Bob 2001, for hours of fun in the snow ($19.50); and cute & cuddly stuffed animals ($25-$50).

The HUP Gift Shop has stuffed animals too, including dogs, bears, horses and a pigmy chimp. Beanie Babies–pink pig for the swine lover ($5.99) and Gund angel bears ($6.99).

This year the CHOP Gift Shop has lots of little gifts to delight the little ones. In addition to stuffed animals, there are great stocking stuffers such as travel games ($8.95), a dino puzzle, Beadinals, an activity involving making creatures from beads ($12.95) or a Dr. Seuss lunch box ($12.99).

The Flower Emporium has a supply of stuffed animals including purple pigs, Beanie Babies, and a cuddly white bear with angel wings. Stocking stuffers include card games like Old Maid, Hearts and Rummy.

With the newly-expanded Pyramid Shop open for business there are lots of fun but unusual toys that don’t need batteries or electricity. From an abacus ($7.95) to a paint-a- tipi ($32), African punch-out and assemble village, Dragon Fly activity kit to Egyptian tattoos, Celtic body art, Roman gladiators, easy to assemble moving model (the original rock’m’sock’m robots) ($15), or the always popular build-your-own mummy ($19.95). Mummy pencil tins in festive colors ($8)and Hologram book marks (.70). For the stressed out little one,tension relief balls ($5-8.99).

This year the Museum Shop has a great-looking chess game from Mongolia. It is a very portable board made of cloth with chess pieces in the shape of animals ($50), and it’s a compliment to the Mongolian exhibit.

The Penn Bookstore has toys for all ages. They’ve got Gund animals in all species as well as Wild Republic huggable animals. Each plush toy comes with a multicultural name, inspirational saying from its country of origin, educational information about the species, and free online games. Also fun, are Calligraphy ($18.95) and Origami ($14.95) kits for hands-on children. With a Hanukkah display, shoppers can also buy fillable Draydels ($1.48), puzzles ($1.96) and, for kids under age five, a mini softshapes book about Hanukkah ($5.99).

In Bike Line you will find big sales on older model bikes. They will also have a large choice of children bikes. A holiday gift can also be the occasion to offer bike accessories to keep biking even during the winter. The shop has plenty of those accessories–from gloves to riding jackets (the jacket worn by Armstrong during the Tour de France is very popular!)–or high quality saddles. Gift certificates are also available.

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Stationery

The Black Cat offers a wide array of stationery, the most striking of these being the Asian calligraphy and art calendars, and the various decorated journals, including bubble-textured and paper mache. These journals ($9.95 and up) are wonderful for the person who has professed the desire to start writing but who has had neither the time nor the inclination to purchase a journal. They also carry cards for all occasions, including beautiful black and white photographic cards, and an assortment of boxed holiday cards, which are now 20% off.

Cards, cards and more cards are what you are bombarded with upon entering the Paper Garden. This store carries a wide selection of boxed holiday cards, and it even carries adorable little pop-up Christmas cards. They carry more than just cards, though. They also boast an impressive collection of miniature, "themed" books, with titles such as, "14,000 Things to Be Happy About."

Messages is undoubtedly best known for its extensive collection of cards, but it also boasts a sprawling collection of planners, journals, address books and calendars. The cards by "Blue Mountain Arts" are especially unique, and this holiday season Messages has in stock an incredible supply of boxed holiday cards that range from cartoonish and goofy to stylish and elegant ($12.99-14.99).

Stepping into Avril 50, with its heavenly aromas of freshly brewed coffee and delightful candies and pastries, one cannot help but notice the distinct foreign and subculture influences that aid in distinguishing this quaint tobacconist shop from the common stationery store. While Avril 50 carries a wide selection of rare cards, planners and journals, it also carries many different French and subculture magazines, perfect for the reader who yearns for more sophisticated, and yes, more risqué material than even "Cosmopolitan." Avril 50 also carries many different regional and political books, such as Poets of the Monterey Bay and Foreign Affairs ($7.95). Avril 50 is the stop for the person looking to get a true taste of cultures out of the mainstream.

CVS (www.cvs.com) has many surprises for this year’s holidays. For those who are planning to get new decorations this year there are Christmas lights ($2.49/100 & $5.99/300), wreaths, a two-ft. PVC Christmas tree ($7.99) and acrylic & plastic Santas ($8.99 - 9.99). CVS also offers more candies than you can name, from simple ones in bags ($0.99 - $1.99) to exquisite ones in tins and boxes ($1.99 - $4.99). There are also Snickers Chocolates in a Plastic ‘Liberty Bell’ which is creative and unique. If you are a last-minute shopper, then the wrapped assortment of chocolates by Russell Stover ($6.99) would be a safe bet. Photo frames ($2.99 - $14.99) are also available with a special offer of ‘buy one and get one free’ if you have the CVS card.

In the lobby of Sheraton, lies a cosy Gift Shop. It offers many Philadelphia and Penn memorabilia; there are Flyers sweatshirts and Philly T-shirts ($13.99 - $24.99), Philly shot glasses ($5.99) and stocking stuffers such as key chains and magnets. Cuddly toys by Russ are also available in different colors, from lavender to pitch black to sparkling green ($6.50-24.99). An interesting gift would be the piggy bank, shaped like a cute pink pig.

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Bath & Beauty | Books/Video/Music | Patriotic Presents | Wearables | Tech/Electronic | Holiday/Decorative | Housewares | Food/Drinks | Toys | Stationery | Outside-the-Box
Outside the Box

The Museum Shop carries sculptures for the collector; horse lovers would appreciate the ceramic Tang Dynasty saddled horse reproductions ($28). Sand-cast glass Maya Glyphs of ancient Maya ruins ($50-$125), hand-made drums from Africa along with a large collection of statues are a welcome addition to any collectors shelves. A set of Sphinx bookends ($158) or a Tea Chest could bring a smile to that hard to buy for relative. Shop online at www.museum.upenn.edu/new/shop/index.shtml.

Visit the Penn Bookstore online and shop at www.bkstore.com/upenn. The cut-off dates for Christmas delivery are as follows: regular UPS 12/17/01; two-day UPS 12/18/01; next-day UPS 12/19/01.

This season the Computer Connection says, "Let us help you find the right gift" and offers a gift guide at http://www.business-services.upenn.edu/computerstore/ where holiday shopping is made easier as merchandise is conveniently organized into price categories (under $25, $50, $100, $200 and over $200) and a special section just for kids.

Visit Smith Bros. Jeans online at www.smithbrosjeans.com where you can shop as well as browse.

Shopping on-line at www.ems.com has the advantage of pre-sorted categories targeting shoppers’ needs, whether you are shopping for men, women or kids, or if you are looking for activity-specific gear. EMS on-line also has sections like "Holiday gift ideas," "Top searches this week," "Tech toys" and "Stocking stuffers."

www.stevemadden.com lets you browse and shop for shoes online. Not only is there a virtual store, gift suggestions, but categories such as "Latest Trends" and "Top Picks" which gives the clueless shoppers a glimpse at the hottest in footwear fashions.

Gap’s website, www.gap.com, not only has outfit ideas, but they have provided their entire winter print ad campaign; so if you saw something in a magazine or on a billboard, ordering the items from that very ad is merely a click away. Though they don’t have a campus shop, GapKids and BabyGap are both on-line at www.gapkids.com and www.babygap.com.

On line, www.douglascosmetics.com/ is in the process of being redesigned, but promises better features for shoppers so keep checking throughout the holidays for their new and improved website.

Bath & Beauty | Books/Video/Music | Patriotic Presents | Wearables | Tech/Electronic | Holiday/Decorative | Housewares | Food/Drinks | Toys | Stationery | Outside-the-Box


Almanac, Vol. 48, No. 15, December 11, 2001

ISSUE HIGHLIGHTS:

Tuesday,
December 11, 2001
Volume 48 Number 15
www.upenn.edu/almanac/

More SAS endowed chairs: Dr. Randall Wright, is appointed to the Ronald Lauder Endowed Term Chair, and Dr. Richard Schultz is the Patricia Williams Term Chair.

Provost Robert Barchi and Executive Vice President John Fry will be part of an Open Form for the University's Strategic Plan on January 15.

Dr. Helen O. Dickens, a pioneer in women's health has died at the age of 92.
UPHS Bond rate has been revised to stable by Moody's Investors Service
Ben Financials begins its countdown to launching of new services on January 2.

Women of Color Scholars Awards applications are due on January 21

Penn Press has a collection of books just right for the holiday gift giving season. If you prefer there are Gifts of Involvement or ideas in the neighborhood from the Holiday Shopping Guide.
During the holidays, there are simple Safety Tips to keep in mind while you work and shop.
As always volunteer opportunities abound available throughout the community.
Researchers receive $1.26 million to study microfluidic systems; Penn has received $2.84 million to improve reliability of computers; the Center on Adult Literacy has received $2.4 million for technology; are part of Research Roundup in this issue.