While the weather outside is expected to get downright frightful—with some forecasts calling for 8 to 16 inches of snow in the Shenandoah Valley—staying inside can be insightful. Check out these three ways to spend the upcoming snow days indoors while broadening your worldview.
Watch Professor Pathania’s star turn in Origin
See the 2023 feature-length film that Variety called “a masterpiece.” Dr. Gaurav J. Pathania, assistant professor of sociology and peacebuilding at EMU, portrays Indian scholar and social reformer Dr. B.R. Ambedkar in this film (available to stream on Hulu) about historical caste systems.
Read our story about how he landed the role, and watch the trailer below.
Warm up your winter with a cafeteria favorite
Just because you can’t make it to the caf doesn’t mean its tasty, comforting dishes can’t come to you! Try making your own tomato basil pie, a favorite among faculty, staff, and students alike, at home using this recipe lovingly provided by Darren Campbell, food service director for Pioneer College Caterers.
| Tomato Basil Pie Recipe for a 9-by-13-inch casserole dish 1) In a 9-by-13-inch dish, cover the bottom of the dish with a single layer of raw cobbler crust or your own homemade cobbler dough. 2) First layer will be tomatoes. If sliced, shingle the tomatoes so that the middle of the bottom intersects the top of the top tomato (think of a figure-eight pattern). If diced, make sure to drain. Around 3 cups of tomatoes total. 3) Second layer: Spread finely chopped basil across the tomatoes. About ½ pound of fresh basil. Set aside about 3 tablespoons basil for garnish. 4) The third layer is shredded cheddar (3 cups) mixed with 2½ tablespoons of heavy mayonnaise. Mix well and spread across the top of the dish. 5) Cover with foil and bake at 325°F for 20 minutes. Uncover and bake for another 5–6 minutes. 6) Garnish with the set-aside basil before serving. |
Need a little extra pick-me-up? Here’s a Common Grounds-inspired drink recipe from Tyler Goss, director for student engagement and leadership development.
| Snow Day Honey Cinnamon Latte Brew a cup of strong drip or instant coffee, then warm milk in the microwave with a little honey and cinnamon. Stir it all together for a cozy, café-style drink that’s perfect for curling up indoors. No espresso machine required. You’ll need • 1 cup strong hot coffee (drip or instant both work) • ½ cup milk (any kind, dairy or non-dairy) • 1-2 tsp honey (maple syrup or sugar works too) • ¼ tsp ground cinnamon • A tiny splash of vanilla extract (optional but lovely) How to make it 1) Brew your coffee a little stronger than usual. 2) In a microwave-safe mug or jar, heat the milk for about 45–60 seconds, until hot but not boiling. 3) Stir the honey, cinnamon, and vanilla (if using) into the milk. 4) Pour the hot coffee into the milk and stir well. Looking to zhuzh it up? Snow-day upgrade: Sprinkle cinnamon on top or add whipped cream Mocha version: Stir 1 tsp cocoa powder into the milk before heating Tea option: Swap coffee for a chai or black tea bag Extra cozy: Add a pinch of nutmeg or pumpkin spice |
Read Professor Evans’ new book
The latest book from Dr. David Evans, professor of history and intercultural studies and associate dean of Eastern Mennonite Seminary, Damned Whiteness offers an unflinching look at the efforts by religious white progressives in the fight for Black freedom. Grab a physical copy of the page-turner at Parentheses Books (76 W Gay St., Harrisonburg) or download one online as an e-edition.
Seeking something a little more fantastical? Check out the Sirens of Adria series from Liesl West ’18 and The Height of Land by Christine Benner Dixon ’04.
Share your favorite indoor snow day activities in the comments below!
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