Cover story:
Christmas with a twist
Christmas isn't just about giving gifts and lighting trees. Sometimes, it can include tiki torches or travel to a foreign country. Meet some people who redefine holiday traditions to suit their own style or to celebrate their own heritage.
On the cover: Models Audra Kaske (left) and Hannah Kostrzewa. Hair styling by Cassie Bauman and Katie Lamp, of the Institute of Beauty and Wellness. White boots from Miller & Campbell Costumes; Photo/T. H. Taylor.

downtime
Worthy splurge: Choosing the right holiday bubbly Champagne has toasted countless special moments, but how much does the average person know about the bubbly they're imbibing?
One tank trip: A slice of Switzerland New Glarus will make you want to break out into a yodel.
Threeview: Barclay Friendly service overcomes some snafus at the Barclay Garden Cafe.
Budget bite: Half Campagnola Panini Sandwich at Eagles' Cafe Eagles' Cafe and Smoothie Bar, in the heart of the Marquette campus, offers much more than typical college fare.
Meet the bartender: Megan Manemann of Mo's Irish Pub While attending college in Minnesota, Megan Manemann decided she'd like to travel to Australia. But like most college students, she was flat broke.
Exposure The Latino Community Center held its second annual Holiday Giggle, “An Evening of Charity and Laughter,” at Gus’ Deli & Cantina.

how we live
What's the buzz about this risque business? The owners of the Tool Shed want to offer a female-friendly approach to erotic retailing. (See shopping photo gallery.)
Raise a mug to these toasty, homemade beverages Cold temperatures, holiday season. It's a perfect time to mix some of your own hot drinks.
New stores on the scene New places to shop for cosmetics, acessories and hair styles.
On the job: Santa Santa talks about his challenges, tricks of the trade, and what he'd like for Christmas.
What a fine anniversary gift! Thanks for the ... toilet paper? What's with the gifr-wrapped tin? Making sense of anniversary-gift rules, new and old.

in the know
Profile: Angela Smith Angela Smith's handmade mats have developed a following across the country.
Helping with the heat A local coalition has set up a program to help lower-income residents with their energy bills.
Get a head start on tax season Before you ring in the new year, check out these last-minute tips for your taxes.
When I was 30: Mark Sain used to chase Milwaukee fire trucks down his neighborhood street. Now he's assistant chief.

online exclusives
Stacy Roller interviews Carson Kressley MKE relationships blogger Stacy Roller talked to "Queer Eye for the Straight Guy" host Carson Kressley about his book, "Off the cuff: The Essential Style Guide for Men and the Women Who Love Them. List to parts of the interview and read the blog.
MKE blogs
MKE blog directory: 1000 voices