1 - The Independent Florida Alligator

THE AVENUE | SEX

High-tech sex pleases all

By BRANDT WILLIAMS | Dec. 2, 2009

As any well-educated and well-rounded 20-year-old can tell you, college welcomes those with an irrepressible appetite for knowledge. However, those 20-somethings also comprise the nation’s youth – a generation that is enjoying its prime and is fully aware of it sexual abilities. College also welcomes the flirtatious, the scandalous, the irresponsible, the debased and the adorably promiscuous. We jump in and out of one another’s beds but often overlook the simpler, STD-free expressions of our sexuality.

THE AVENUE | ART AND THEATER

Gainesville Local Art Mart shows unique crafts

By MARGARET GRECO | Dec. 2, 2009

Things got weird almost immediately at the Gainesville Local Art Mart. Initially, I was distracted by the smell and sight of people making pizza inside the building, but it quickly became clear that many Gainesville residents make some crazy crafts. If you ever wanted to get some organic catnip (for just $2!) or a few bedazzled felt Christmas tree ornaments, this is definitely the right place.

THE AVENUE | FASHION

Runway offers alternative to buying designer clothing

By TAWNA SOELDNER-DANGER | Dec. 2, 2009

Even with a closet full of clothes, many women suffer from the age-old complaint: I don’t have anything to wear.

THE AVENUE | MUSIC

Cursive gets creative on new album

By Jon Silman | Dec. 2, 2009

Cursive, an indie-rock band from Omaha, Neb., is playing at Common Grounds on Sunday. The band is on Saddle Creek records, a record label best known for another Omaha act, Bright Eyes. Its latest album, “Mama, I’m Swollen,” was released in March, and they played the “Late Show with David Letterman” that same month. The Avenue got the chance to talk to bass player Matt Maginn about playing on TV, the band’s sound and his favorite Nirvana record.

THE AVENUE | LIFESTYLE

‘Lovely Bones’ shows realm between life and death

By MARY MANCHESS | Dec. 2, 2009

Saoirse Ronan isn’t like her peers. She doesn’t have a fragrance or clothing line, and she isn’t among the teeny bopper, triple-threat, overnight sensations that Disney produces.

THE AVENUE | LIFESTYLE

Killing Christmas spirit

By ERIK VOSS | Dec. 2, 2009

When my family gathers, we collectively devolve into sadists.

NEWS

Director Paul Greengrass calls it quits for ‘Bourne 4’

By Joshua Saval | Dec. 2, 2009

The director of the previous two "Bourne" movies decides to not return for the fourth film in the popular series.

NEWS

Greek Gods clash in two movies next spring

By Joshua Saval | Dec. 2, 2009

Two films with the same premise will come out in theaters within only a month of each other. This isn't the first time in cinema history this has happened though.

NEWS

Herbs and Spices: Part 2

By CYNTHIA DESPRES | Dec. 2, 2009

Herbs and spices are wonderful, but they almost never work alone. By knowing which ingredients enhance each others flavors, people keep finding different seasonings to use on various dishes.

MULTIMEDIA | VIDEO

Video: Dream Deferred

By ANA GONI–LESSAN | Dec. 1, 2009

Sergio came to the United States to work as a roofer to support his family back home in southern Mexico.

METRO

Free HIV testing offered for World Aids Day

By ERICA JOHNSON | Dec. 1, 2009

A student organization promoted sex safe practices and HIV awareness Tuesday night at a benefit in honor of World AIDS day.

SPORTS | MEN'S BASKETBALL

UF responds in second half to avoid letdown vs. FAMU

By ADAM BERRY | Dec. 1, 2009

On Monday, Florida coach Billy Donovan said he wasn’t sure if his team deserved its new No. 13 ranking. Tuesday night’s game backed up his gut feeling.

SPORTS | COLUMNS