BY ABBY ROHMAN

Two weeks is a very long time. On average, an MHS student can have four tests, two quizzes and one essay due in a two-week period. A question must be posed: how can a student survive without the constant stimulation of education over the long Christmas break? By attending entertaining events of course!

If one is staying at home over Christmas break, there is no need to fear the threat of boredom. New York City, the most exciting metropolitan area, is host to multitudes of fun events to attend and enjoy.

One exciting city offering is ice-skating in one of the many outdoor rinks. Rockefeller Center is a longtime favorite; however, between entrance fees and skate rental costs, it does get pricey. Another option is The Pond at Bryant Park, a free outdoor skating rink with holiday shops, cafés and an indoor pavilion. Skate rental at The Pond is $12, or you can opt to bring your own skates.

If using Grand Central Station as a means of arriving in the city, be sure to visit the main terminal on the half hour. From now until Jan.15, every half hour, the terminal will light up in neon colors, music will be played, and snowflakes and spinning carousels will appear from the ceiling. Imagine this as the MTA’s “Merry Christmas” greeting. (Why the New York State government has such great fiscal problems, I don’t know.)

Looking for a view into our country’s past? The Metropolitan Museum of Art is showcasing historic American scenes in “American Stories: Paintings of Everyday Life, 1765-1915.” As usual, the Met has a suggested, but not mandatory, admission fee.

Yet another entertaining offering of New York is a performance by Mariah Carey. She is headlining a New Year’s Eve concert with special guest Trey Songz. She will be performing songs from her most recent album, “Memoirs of an Imperfect Angel.”

     Feel like seeing a movie closer to home? Disney is proud to present the first African-American Disney Princess, Tiana, of “The Princess and the Frog,” which opens on Dec. 11 and has already drawn positive reviews. Though targeted towards a younger audience, it is a heart-warming movie.

     “Sherlock Homes,” starring Robert Downey Jr., Jude Law, and Rachel McAdams, opens Christmas day and is expected to be an award-winning film. This movie calls all mystery movie fans that seek a thrilling two hours.

Have fun exploring the city this December break, but most importantly, sleep late, rest up and enjoy the holidays with family and friends!