2012
Holiday
Gift Guide Advertising Supplement
Summer Fun in the Sun ONLY
On Monday, December 3rd And Monday, December 10th, Lakeview Square Mall Shoppers Can Earn A...
REGULARLY $65 (limit 4 per person)
(REGULARLY $220, SAVE $40)
Spend $200 & receive a $10 Lakeview Square Mall Gift Card!
PASS IS VALID MEMORIAL DAY—LABOR DAY and includes: Entrance to both water parks Souvenir cup with $1 refills Four guest passes Additional valuable coupons
Receipts must be from Lakeview Square Mall merchants and must be dated for the date of the event. Shoppers can redeem their FREE Gift Card from 6-9pm in Center Court. For complete Terms & Conditions, visit the Mall Management Office or Redemption Zone.
FOR MORE INFORMATION CALL
269-966-3667
(269) 979-2225 | www.lakeviewsquare.com
—Offer expires 12/29/2012—
LJ-0100197167
35 Hamblin Ave. Downtown Battle Creek
www.fullblast.org
5 7 7 5 B e c k l e y R d . B a t t l e C re e k , M I 4 9 0 1 5
LJ-0100195881
*Offer valid while supplies last, one card per customer, some restrictions apply.
Michigan’s Largest Christmas Light Display
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AND
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Over 1 mile long & millions of lights, animated drive thru at Jackson County Fairgrounds, 200 W. Ganson Street
November 16 to December 30 6pm to 10pm $
14 per vehicle / $25 per bus
Santa is coming to town!
Children will have the opportunity to have their photos taken with Santa and make their Christmas wishes. *Photos will be taken for a small fee or you are welcome to visit Santa at no charge.
Winter Wonderland & Santa Visits: November 30th - December 2nd December 7th-9th and 14th-23rd Live Reindeer on November 30th December 7th and 14th (Santa’s hours: 6:00pm -8:30pm)
We will be offering a puppet show and free train rides. Decorated holiday trees, food and drinks of the season, and a visit from Santa Claus himself! LJ-0100197372
Protect What Matters This Holiday Season (BPT) - The winter holiday season is here, which means we can look forward to a lot of decorating, parties and possibly some travel during the next few months. But with all the hustle and bustle of shopping and celebrating, it’s important not to lose sight of what matters most: the safety of your family and home. From now until New Year’s, you’ll be expecting guests more frequently and your house will be filled with beautiful, but highly flammable, decorations. These range from the candles on your dining room table to the tree in your living room to the paper decorations on your walls. All of these items can contribute to potentially unsafe conditions in your home. To keep your family and house safe and still enjoy all the festivities, keep in mind these simple precautions: 1. Always make sure burning candles are never left unattended (blow them out if you leave the room) and are placed at least 12 inches away from flammable objects. Candleholders should be sturdy and placed on a stable, uncluttered surface. 2. Make sure to check your smoke alarms monthly. They should be installed in every bedroom, outside each separate sleeping area, and on every level of your house. Replace the batteries in all of your smoke alarms at least once a year. 3. The holidays also mean travel for some families, and it’s important to make sure your house is safe while you’re away. Consider a home security and automation system that offers comprehensive protection inside and out, such as ADT Pulse. This innovative, customizable system allows you to control your lights, lock your doors, adjust your thermostats and watch your pets from wherever you happen to be via a computer or smartphone. 4. Make sure your decorations are safe. Only use items that are flame resistant or flame retardant, and avoid placing them near doorways or windows. 5. Have your chimney cleaned and inspected every year by a qualified professional. Make sure to use a fireplace screen to contain any sparks or hot embers. Once you put the fire out, let ashes cool, and then transfer them to a metal container with a lid. This should be kept at a safe distance from your house. With the help of some common-sense safety precautions and a good security system, you’ll be able to enjoy all the fun and festivities of the holiday season, whether you’re hosting or traveling.
Make Christmas Memorable With Unique Gifts Uniqueness itself has its own charms and attractions. And when it comes to gifts, uniqueness is what makes it memorable and special. Most of the time Christmas gifts are bought last-minute. This year put a little glimmer back into Christmas by giving really unique and innovative gifts. Let your Christmas gifts be remembered for the unique idea and care you put into them! Here are some unique Christmas gift ideas. Consider These Unique Christmas Gift Ideas: 1. Gift a Thoughtful Magazine Subscription – It has a number of advantages. First, there is a plethora of magazines from which to choose. Second, it is a gift that one gets throughout the year and thus remembers you. And third, they are reasonably priced. If your mother loves to cook, wife has a green finger or husband is into cars, there is a magazine out there for all of them. 2. Get Really Creative with Your Christmas Gifts – The most inimitable Christmas gifts of all are the ones made by you. 3. Plan an Unforgettable Trip – Traveling is the largest pursued hobby on earth. And the best way to really amaze someone this Christmas is to plan a trip. Gifting an incredible trip aboard a cruise ship will make anyone remember you for life time. 4. Artwork Makes a Classy Gift – If you need to gift a really classy friend, consider giving artwork. This thoughtful gift is sure to impress
EXPERIENCE MARSHALL, MI THIS HOLIDAY SEASON!
him/her. You can choose between artworks by modern artists as well as recreations of the classics. Prices range to fit a variety of budgets. 5. For a Young Child, a Personalized Book – Give personalized books for children which feature animals that spell out the child’s name. A matching shirt and small stuffed animal will go well with the book. The price is reasonable, and the gift will be cherished for many years to come. 6. Give a Handmade Gift Certificate – A certificate to your cousin or sister for numerous nights of babysitting, or a trip to the zoo with your niece or nephew are great Christmas gift ideas. 7. Instead of buying a gift for everyone in the family you can opt for one gift that everyone can enjoy. A jigsaw puzzle can be a great family gift. Couple it with a big pack of microwave popcorn and some hot chocolate mix and everyone will delightfully settle for a fun family night! 8. Gifts made by the grandchildren amaze every grandparent. Think of framing some of the grandchildren’s artwork in a nice frame and gift it to your granny. You can also do a collage of photos for your grandparents.
SHE SHOPPED MARSHALL. WHAT ABOUT YOU? SHALL ISTMAS IN MAR 2012 CHR NOVEMBER Now thru Dec 22 An Olde Fashioned Christmas at Cornwell’s Turkeyville, USA 800 228.4315 / turkeyville.com Now thru Dec 24 Barton Theatre Organ Music Schedule at the Mole Hole 800 877.5163 / moleholemarshall.com Nov 23 The Nutcracker by the Marshall Ballet Company 800 877.5163 / marshallmi.org Nov 24 Beatles Sing-A-Long at the Franke Center for the Arts 269 781.0001 / frankecenterforthearts.org Nov 26 48th Annual Marshall Christmas Parade - Michigan Avenue 800 877.5163 / marshallmi.org Nov 29 thru Dec 19 Holiday Carolers at Schuler’s Restaurant 269 781.0600 / schulersrestaurant.com Nov 30 Marshall Area Chamber of Commerce Retail Open House 800 877.5163 / marshallmi.org
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DECEMBER Dec 1 - 15 Santa’s hours in downtown Marshall at the Toy Barn 800 877.5163 / marshallmi.org Dec 6 American Idol’s Matt Girard at the Franke Center for the Arts 269 781.0001 / frankecenterforthearts.org Dec 6 thru Dec 16 Great Escape Stage Company’s Plaid Tidings 269 781.2700 / greatescapestagecompany.com Dec 8 - 9 33rd Annual Marshall Christmas Candlelight Tour -Reserved tickets only 800 877.5163 / marshallhistoricalsociety.org Dec 9 Christmas Tea at the Governor’s Mansion (1:00 to 5:00) 800 877.5163 / marshallmi.org Dec 18 The Christmas Present at the Calhoun County Fairground’s Maple Grove Church 800 877.5163 / marshallmi.org For more information, visit www.marshallmi.org or call 800.877.5163
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Buy ‘em by the Carton • Buy ‘em by the Case “Thank You For Making Us Your #1 Cigarette Outletâ€?
Hours Mon - Thurs 8:00 - 7:00 Fri-Sat 8:00 - 7:00 Sunday 10:00 - 4:00
Phone: 260-833-1374 Fax: 260-833-1643
Finding The Perfect Gift For The Man In Your Life Finding the perfect gift for anybody is a chore, but when it comes to finding the perfect gift for the love of your life it can be an even more difficult task. Plenty of thought must be put into this as the purchase of an incorrect give could be detrimental. You obviously know this person very well, so there is no excuse for you not to know what they would like. Most men will give enough clues as to what they wish to receive, be it a Christmas Gift or Birthday Gift. But will you choose the correct one? If you partner is into sports, that is a great starting point. There are many different types of gifts available to do with regarding sports. For example if your partner plays golf, why not buy him some golf lessons, or perhaps a round of golf for him and his golfing buddy. There are many great deals available which can include a round of golf, lunch afterwards and perhaps even an overnight stay. If all else fails golfing attire makes a lovely gift, once you know his taste that is. If adventure sports are his pleasure the choices are unlimited. Send him on a day karting or paint balling with his friends to take him back to his youth. If he is more of a thrill seeker, why not send him up in a hot air balloon for an afternoon or send him flying with a qualified instructor. White water kayaking could also be fun, but it’s not for the feint-hearted. If on the other hand your partner does not participate in any type of sports, why not try the gift of technology. Most men like to be the owner of the latest gadget and there are plenty out there to choose from. Whether they will admit to it or not all men like to be pampered. Send your loved one to the local spa, for a day of rest and relaxation. Perhaps you could even go with him and spend some quality time being pampered together. A body massage would be just perfect for him to unwind and clear his mind to leave him feeling rejuvenated. Another great pampering treatment is a traditional shave with hot towels to clear his pours, followed by a relaxing facial and maybe even a hair cut. Top all this off with a pedicure and a manicure and he will feel like a new man, ready to take on the world. If you cannot choose from any of these great gift ideas, simply book a surprise holiday, where you can spend some quality time together. That way you also get to enjoy your gift.
Holiday Shopping Online? 3 Tips to Avoid Common Scams (BPT) - Sometimes the best way to find that perfect holiday gift is to search and shop online; it’s quick, easy and convenient. And more and more people are doing it. It’s anticipated that sales for November and December will grow to $54.5 billion in 2012, a 16.8 percent increase over 2011, according to eMarketer. Help protect yourself from scammers by following three simple rules: 1. Never use a money transfer service to pay for something online. “Money transfer services are convenient and simple ways to send cash to people you personally know, but you’re better off paying by credit card or using an escrow service when you’re buying goods online from someone you don’t know or you haven’t met in-person,� says Shelley Bernhardt, director of consumer protection at Western Union. Once you send a money transfer, it can be paid out to the receiver within a short time. After the money is paid, it’s gone and the odds of getting it back if the gift you thought you purchased never finds your doorstep are slim. If an individual seller or online retail website only accepts money transfers as payment, be wary and look elsewhere. And don’t be fooled, even if the seller appears friendly and offers a reasonable explanation
“IT WON’T BE LONG� A BEATLES SING-A-LONG Tribute
November 24, 2012 Saturday
Franke Center for the Arts 214 E. Mansion St. Marshall, MI 49068
Surgeon General’s Warning: Cigarette Smoke Contains Carbon Monoxide
Prices subject to change without notice.
LJ-0100195200
CHECKS WELCOME (Telecheck System)
8 PM
 �� � ��   € LJ-0100197396
as to why he or she only accepts money transfers - fraudsters are welltrained in gaining your trust. 2. Never email any financial information. It’s a red flag if a seller asks you to email a credit card number or checking account number. And remember, never give out your social security number when shopping online; retailers don’t need this information to complete a transaction. If you’re paying for something online, use a secure money exchange service like Paypal or use the secure payment portal on the seller’s website. 3. Read product descriptions carefully, including the fine print, and determine exchange and return policies before you purchase. If the seller or website you bought from doesn’t have an exchange policy and the product you buy ends up being something different than what you expected, you’re likely out of luck if you try to return it. You can shop online safely and securely during the holidays or anytime of the year. But make sure you protect yourself from scammers by approaching your purchases with the required amount of scrutiny. For more information on avoiding common scams, visit www.westernunion.com/stopfraud or www.ftc.gov/moneymatters and click on ‘Scam Watch.’
Franke Center for the Arts Presents
MATT GIRAUD
in concert
December 6, 2012 Thursday 8 PM
Tickets $42 advance $44 door Box Office (269) 781-0001 On-Line Tickets
 � � � �  €
Battle Creek’s Most BattleComplete Creek’s Fireplace Shop Most Complete "LikeShop us on Fireplace Facebook"
For Your Perfect Thanksgiving Turkey Doc Bosker says…
Have your BEST Holiday Turkey ever on the … Big Green Egg! We carry a full line of accessories for the Big Green Egg
Gift Certificates LJ-0100198047
Available
17 Springfield Dr. just N. of Dickman Off 20th St 968-8181 www.boskerbrick.com
BECKLEY RD EXPRESS
BECKLEY RD CIRCULATOR
Beckley Road Service Available for All Your Shopping Needs! Beckley Road Express Non-Stop Services to the Lakeview Square Mall. $1.25 with FREE transfers Monday-Friday Only
Also Available!
Night Van Service to get you home. Fare is the same as all Tele-Transit Monday-Friday • 4pm - Midnight *Reservations required and can be made by calling (269) 966.3474 First-come, first-served
LJ-0100131198
Beckley Road Circulator
FREE continuous and convenient, all-day service between the Lakeview Square Mall & Harper Creek Village. Monday-Friday Only
please call (269) 966.3474
Let Your Kids Help With Christmas Decorations Are you a parent? If so, there is a good chance that you already know just how much kids love the holidays. That is why you may want to think about letting your children help you decorate for Christmas. In fact, in addition to just letting them help you hang Christmas decorations, you may also want to let them make their own handmade Christmas decorations. Not only will you find that there are a number of benefits to doing so, but you will also find that there are a number of fun and exciting Christmas decorations that they can easily make. Almost every family that celebrates Christmas has a Christmas tree; therefore, there is a good chance that your family will have one. One fun and exciting Christmas craft project that your children could do involves making their own Christmas ornaments. Christmas ornaments can be made from regular paper or any other type of material. In fact, you can purchase a number of Christmas ornament cutouts or guides from your local craft store. These ornament pieces are likely plain, but already shaped like something, such as a star or a cross. It would be up to your child to paint their ornament. This type of Christmas decoration craft project is great for small children or those who may be making their own Christmas decorations for the first time. In addition to Christmas trees, a large number of families have small Christmas signs or pictures throughout their home. These signs and pictures often state a Christmas message or have a picture of Santa. Your children could easily make their own paintings or drawings, often with the supplies that can already be found inside your home. Your child’s picture would likely look great on your refrigerator or you could even frame the picture and hang it up somewhere else inside your home. This type of Christmas decoration craft project is ideal for children of any age and, as previously
mentioned, is a great way to save money since you likely already have all of the needed supplies. Another fun Christmas decoration that your children could design is a centerpiece for your dining room table. In fact, you may also want to use that centerpiece for your Christmas dinner. If you are looking for a somewhat elegant centerpiece, you could easily have your children make their own. You can do this by purchasing artificial flowers, a large bowl or vase, as well as other decorative items. Your children can easily arrange these items to create their own unique centerpieces for your dining room table. It may also be a good idea to let them be crafty. Your child may also be able to create a centerpiece in the shape of Santa or a Christmas tree by using construction paper and a few other small supplies. The above mentioned Christmas craft decoration ideas for kids are just a few of the many that exist. In addition to using your own craft ideas, you can also find a number of other fun Christmas craft projects for kids online. You can find a collection of ideas by performing a standard Internet search. Also, in your local library or at one of your local book stores, you may also be able to find a collection of Christmas craft books for children. These books tend to outline the supplies needed, as well as give detailed directions on how to make Christmas decorations. These decorations may include Christmas drawings or paintings, tree ornaments, table centerpieces, and much more. Regardless of which type of Christmas decorations you allow your child or children to make, they will likely enjoy the experience, especially if you participate as well. For a child, there is nothing like seeing their Christmas drawings hanging on the walls or their Christmas ornaments hanging on the tree. That is why you are advised to let your children make their own Christmas decorations. As previously mentioned, there are a number of decorations that they can easily create; decorations that may require little time and money.
Hodges Jewelers Hand-Crafted Historic Downtown Marshall
Fine Jewelry
Custom stom Design Bridal dal Pre-Owned e-Owned wned Rolex lex & Vintage Watchess We Buy Gold
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269-789-2345
117 W. Michigan, Marshall
www.hodgesfinejewelry.com
LLoose oose o Diamond Diamonds frfrom rom 1/4 carat ttoo 5 carat EExpert on-site repair EEstate Jewelry
Taking New Years Eve RESERVATIONS STARTING DEC. 1ST Family Time 5pm-8pm • Prime Time 9pm-1am • CALL FOR DETAILS
Weekly Cash Prizes Mystery Jackpot
We now offer Fresh Stone-baked Pizza and Grinders!!
Short Season Leagues Starting in January Teams Forming Now Bowl only 12 weeks!! Friday’s @ 6:30pm
Happy Hour Trio 3-person Mixed Teams Starts January 11, 2013 Thursday’s @ 6:30pm
T-N-T -- 3 Person Mixed Teams Starts January 17 Sunday’s @ 6:30pm
Plan on us for
Call for open bowl specials
Register at Front Counter Today!!
269-962-9597
WOW! NEW STORE Beauty & Sweet Treats Cash N Carry AVON
Heavenly Chocolates 1st OPEN HOUSE/ Black Friday Specials
No Bowling Super Bowl Sunday
www.m66bowl.biz
Johnson Pet Services
Grooming • Boarding • Supplies Walk-ins Welcome Homemade Dog Treats
Holiday Hours 8am - 8pm Umbrella Dresses
Doggie Day Care
(Custom Make Your Own)
838 W. Goguac • 269-964-2289
Look For Ad in Thanksgiving Paper
M I C H I G A N
This holiday season give yourself the gift of lower fees,reasonable rates, and less stress! Now open to everyone in the Battle Creek Area! Start the switch today at
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UPCOMING EVENT
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19794 Capital Ave • Battle Creek, MI
LJ-0100197977
CALL FOR DETAILS OR TO RESERVE A SPOT
Sunday Mix-‘N-Match 4-person Mixed Teams Starts January 13
HOLIDAY SCHOOL BREAK!
LJ-0100197179
3 SHORT SEASON LEAGUES BOWL ONLY 12 WEEKS
As the Christmas season approaches, people start looking for some really good Christmas decoration ideas to make their home look attractive and welcoming. Christmas holidays are the days filled with fun, laughter, bonhomie and more. People come together and celebrate. A beautiful home creates the right mood and ambience required for happy celebrations; however, most people are busy enough these days that they do not get time to explore new ideas for Christmas decorations. In fact, there are several ideas including Christmas tree decorations, beaded decorations and more. You can choose to decorate the way you like it to be and within your budget, too. For setting your home beautiful this Christmas, budget is no limitation; you can get varied Christmas decorations within every kind of budget. You will find here some really simple and beautiful ideas to decorate your home this holiday season. Simple Christmas Decoration Ideas : Holiday Themes The very first step is to set a plan or theme for your Christmas decorations. Choosing a theme or a setting a plan helps you pull all ideas together and also make your decorations look personal. Some interesting ideas can be the rustic lodge Christmas, a toy-land Christmas, Christmas from countries around the world, Victorian Christmas, country Christmas, Santa Christmas, snowman Christmas, old-fashioned Christmas and more. Christmas Tree Decorations Christmas tree decorations are the most important component of any Christmas decoration. A perfect Christmas tree can be the center stage for all the Christmas decorations. You can use all sorts of small
840 W. Goguac • 269-964-2289
HOLIDAY PET & FAMILY PORTRAIT DAY
CIR PRODUCT SALE! November 18th - 30th 20% OFF all hand woven fiber arts and hand painted silk products!
LJ-0100197402
SCOTCH DOUBLES Every Saturday $ 18 Couple
Unique and Beautiful Christmas Decoration Ideas
decoration pieces, glittering and shining to adore your Christmas tree. You can use stars, angels, fairies and beaded decoration for your tree. Do not forget to add a bright red color to your tree with a ribbon or bow. Quick Ideas You can place some inexpensive glass balls in a glass bowl and add a few sprigs from your Christmas tree and left over ribbon. In lieu of a bowl, you can also use a box with left over Christmas wrap and decorate it with fabric and glue. Decorate the Chandelier You can make your chandelier a center piece by using a little creativity and few things such as ribbons, ornaments, glitter or beaded decorations. You can drape the ribbon around the chandelier in an interesting way and also tie ornaments with ribbons. Christmas Window Decoration You can decorate your window with freshly painted stars and various other shapes; however, make sure that it is painted and sparkling clean. Moreover, you can add some glitter to those ornaments to make it them shine. There are hundreds of ideas to decorate your home for Christmas. Just remember that creativity can go further than your budget.
Don’t miss out on other great gifts by local artists, shop at the etc. ARTS Studio this Holiday Season!
Sat. December 1st from 12 p.m. to 4 p.m. Orders will be ready in time for Christmas Mon. - Thur. 10 - 6 p.m. • Sun. 9 - 2 p.m. 157 Capital Ave. NE www.cirFUN.com 269-788-6654
LJ-0100197361
Delicious Uses for Holiday Leftovers Winter weather fogs them, rain spots them, and daily wear scratches them. If glasses or contacts slow you down, set your sights on the gift of LASIK. Dr.William Sray has performed thousands of refractive surgical procedures, including LASIK procedures on Navy SEALS and military pilots. Entrust your vision to Dr. Sray and the team at Southwest Michigan Eye Center, where you’ll experience the latest in Blade-Free Intralase™ technology.Visit swmeyecenter.com, click on the Gift of Lasik icon and submit your information to take advantage of a special holiday discount.
Lasik effective for patients 21-60 years of age. consultations completed by February 28, 2013 and Lasik procedure * FREE performed by March 31, 2013. 3600 Capital Ave. SW Battle Creek, MI 49015 www.swmeyecenter.com
Payment Options Available, Subject to Credit Approval. Minimum monthly payment required. See store for details. Call Southwest Michigan Eye Center Today for a FREE consultation – 269-979-6383 or 1-800-274-6699
LJ-0100194838
Marshall Town and Country Antiques
Seasonal Sales throughout the store! Featuring antique and vintage jewelry, glass, pottery, linens, and furniture, including an extensive selection of Roseville, Fenton, Fiesta, McCoy, and Hull. Dozens of unique sports and entertainment memorabilia items, many autographed. 151 West Michigan Avenue • Marshall, Michigan • 269-781-4642 Open seven days a week from 11-5. Open until 6pm for the holiday season.
LJ-0100197874
(BPT) - Every year, we face the same question after large holiday dinners: What do I do with all the leftovers? Rita Held, culinary professional and creator of Holland House Cooking Wine recipes, knows that one of the rewards of holiday cooking is leftovers and all their possibilities. “If I’m too busy to make something at the time, my freezer comes in handy,” says Held. “slice up turkey, ham or roast beef and freeze in individual sandwich-size portions, or I dice it into small portions to use in scrambled eggs, omelets, or soups.” This year, keep the party going with a few innovative tips and recipes from Held to take your holiday leftovers from dull to dazzling. • Storing leftovers. How leftovers are stored will determine how much you can use later. Make sure that food cools before sealing and storing it in the refrigerator, and use shallow containers to ensure freshness is locked in. While it’s tempting to keep casseroles and sides wrapped in the serving dishes, it is best to store these in airtight containers as well. • Extraordinary sandwiches. All that leftover turkey usually means sandwiches for a week. Break routine with the traditional turkey sandwich and make a warm Panini sandwich with a flavorful cheese and cranberry sauce, or a croque monsieur sandwich with sliced ham and Dijon mustard. • Savory pies. Use leftover mashed potatoes and vegetables to create a shepherd’s pie. No more mashed potatoes? No problem! Create d e l i c i o u s potpies with leftover turkey for a simple meal the whole family will love. • Hearty soups. One of the easiest ways to use leftover meats and vegetables is by making soup. Laced with sherry cooking wine, this Wild Rice ‘n Ham Soup is great way to use leftover ham and wild rice. Serve with a fresh spinach salad and a loaf of crusty French bread for an easy weeknight meal. Don’t let holiday leftovers go to waste. By planning ahead and being creative, you can reuse leftovers to create some truly memorable meals. For additional recipes, visit Holland House on Facebook at Facebook.com/ HollandHouseProducts.
Ingredients: 2 cans (14-1/2 ounces each ) 4 tablespoons butter 1/2 cup shredded or reduced-sodium chicken bro th julienned carrots 1/2 cup chopped onion 1/2 cup Holland House Sherr y 1 cup whole milk 1-1/2 cups sliced fresh Cooking Wine mushrooms 2 tablespoons chopped 2 cups cooked wild rice parsley for garnish 1/2 cup all-purpose flour 1 cup diced cooked ham Directions: Melt butter in a 6-quart pot. Add onion and mushrooms; cook until tender. Stir in flour can chicken broth. Add remain and gradually stir in 1 ing can of broth and sherry cooking wine. Cook, stirring comes to a boil and thickens. constantly, until mixture Add rice, ham and carrots; co ok 10 minutes or until heate d through. Reduce heat; stir 1 minute or until heated throu in milk and simmer gh. Serve garnished with pa rsley. Makes 4 servings (about 7 cu ps).
Open
Open
Sunday December 23rd 7am-2pm
Monday December 24th 7am-5pm
Holiday Sweets are Great for Parties, Dinners & Gifts Call Today to Order
German & American Strollens • Coffee Cakes • Gingerbread Cookies • Specialty Tortes • and so much more 269.968.7136 www.BCcakes.biz
928 W. Columbia Ave. Battle Creek, MI 49015 Mon-Fri 7am-6pm Sat 7am-5pm Closed December 25th & 26th
LJ-0100198021
Furs - Leathers - Cashmeres
Over 1200 Coats In Stock! 100’s of Accessories Including: • Hats • Headbands • Vests
• Shawls • Gloves • Scarves
• Handbags • EarMuffs • Fur Slippers CHECK OUT OUR HUGE SELECTION OF MEN’S LEATHERS
and Leathers LJ-0100196739
Special Holiday Price – 10% Discount Per Eye!*
Wild Rice ‘n Ham Soup
1-888-979- FURS (3877) • 269-979-4101 5568 Beckley Road | Battle Creek Mon. 10 am-8pm, Tues.-Sat. 10am-5:30pm • www.burtrumfursandleathers.com
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Nick-of-Time Tips to Make Your Home Holiday Ready len + roth ornaments on top to create a ‘holiday topiary.’ 2. Kitchens The kitchen is the hub of the home, especially during the holidays. Giving this room a refresh can be quick and easy, regardless of budget. Painting is one of the simplest, most cost-effective ways to completely change the look of a space. Experiment with rich, food- and spice-inspired hues that will provide an appealing backdrop for holiday decor and remain relevant when the seasons change.
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ART CENTER of Battle Creek’s Holly Mart Holiday Sale Now thru Decemberr 21st 2 23rd 3rd 3r
Pottery Jewelry Clothing Purses Cards & Books
Glass Items Paintings Drawings Photography Prints & More
www.artcenterofbattlecreek.org 265 E. Emmett St. 265 26 265 65 E E. .E Emmett mmett S St. t. • •9 962-9511 6962-9511 2-9511 • Mon.-Sat. M•oTue.-Fri. n.-Sat. 10-5, 1010-5 -5, Thurs. ThSat. urs.10-4 10-7 10-7
LJ-0100199581
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(BPT) - As you prepare to celebrate the holidays, welcoming loved ones into your home is a highlight of the festivities. You may eagerly look forward to gathering with family and friends, but is your house holiday and houseguest ready? Preparing your home for holiday guests doesn’t have to be time consuming or costly. By focusing on areas that receive the most guest traffic, you can create a fresh, welcoming environment within budget. The home improvement experts at Lowe’s recommend updating five key spaces: 1. Entryways Start by making a great first impression and setting the mood by enhancing the entryway and improving curb appeal. By adding a new doormat and painting the front door an inviting, rich jewel tone, you’ll be sure to make a statement year-round about the personalities inside your home. Next, step inside and consider lighting upgrades. The foyer is the perfect spot to add a dramatic pendant light or chandelier to welcome guests with a warm glow. Add some festive holiday decor by layering a centerpiece of paperwhites – a fragrant, fast-growing seasonal flower – paired with pinecones on a foyer table to create a look that combines two popular seasonal standbys. Roomier entryways can benefit from a decorative urn filled with a variety of greens. Heap al-
It’s easier than ever to change the look of countertops and cabinets. While you’re swapping out knobs and drawer pulls, consider giving tired laminate countertops a coat of paint. Add a new backsplash in ceramic tile or natural stone, or go quick and easy with peel-and-stick metal tile that evokes the look of classic tin. 3. Guest bath/powder room After the kitchen, the guest bath or powder room will likely see the most holiday traffic. These rooms - usually smaller than master baths will benefit from a simple decluttering. Quick updates like adding new cabinet hardware and coordinating accessories like soap dishes, lotion dispensers, toothbrush holders, shower curtains and towels are easy ways to refresh these small but important areas. The holidays are also a great time to update items you can enjoy for the rest of the year, such as lighting and faucets, new mirrors, paint or wallpaper. 4. Guest bedroom After days filled with festivities, your guests will appreciate a comfortable place to rest. Get guest bedrooms ready for visitors by clearing out closet space, adding freshly laundered blankets and providing plenty of pillows. Keep in mind the importance of a variety of lighting options in this room. A bedside table lamp may be great for night-time reading but overhead lighting will be helpful when dressing, applying makeup or wrapping lastminute gifts. Simple decor projects like new area rugs and window treatments can have a big impact on the room. If the guestroom is small, adding some decorative mirrors can help the area feel more expansive. Updating the old ceiling fan can dramatically alter the look of any space, plus aid in airflow. Finally, polish off the holiday look with in-season flowers or plants; they’re welcoming and warm and make a great gift to send guests home with once their visits end.
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5. Living room Guests will also congregate in the living room. Fortunately, some simple cosmetic changes go a long way toward making this room warm, comfortable and inviting. Changing accent pillows, throws and window treatments to seasonal patterns and colors are a great way to start. A decorated mantel is also a classic holiday decor touch. For a fast and easy festive look, place loose evergreen branches along the mantel and intersperse with brightly colored Christmas ornaments. Don’t overlook the Christmas tree. Positioning a tree in front of a window allows your holiday spirit to shine through to the outdoors. Just remember to keep trees away from the fireplace and other heat sources. With some creativity and planning, you can get your home ready to welcome holiday guests - just in the nick of time.
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(BPT) - Supporting the troops is an important thing to do - but sometimes it’s hard to figure out how to give your support. Here are five easy ways to thank those people who keep us safe every single day - even if you don’t personally know someone serving. And it’s the perfect time of year to do it. With the holidays coming up, many of these service men and women are away from family. Send a thank-you gift Give a personal thank you directly to the men and women serving the country. Some retailers are making it easy to support the troops this holiday season. For instance, national retailer Things Remembered is helping people - even those on a budget - send unique, personalized gifts to deployed service members. Things Remembered shoppers purchasing gifts for deployed military personnel will receive 25 percent off and free shipping on any personalized gift sent to an APO/ FPO address. The promotion will run through Nov. 20, giving all the opportunity to personally thank those protecting our nation in time for the holidays. Even shoppers who don’t personally know any deployed servicemen or women can show their support. All Things Remembered stores will be featuring local deployed military members who would love to receive gifts from their hometown neighbors. Volunteer your time Troops serving overseas do not have the luxury of spending the holidays with their
your area will likely be without a loved one this season. There are countless ways to show your support of those behind our military, whether it’s a plate of holiday cookies, community event or simply a handwritten card. During this difficult time, it truly is the thought that counts, and your efforts will be appreciated more than you know. Find a local family to support through an organization like Military OneSource. Be vocal Encouraging others to remember our deployed troops is one of the most wide-reaching ways to support the active military during the holidays. By reminding neighbors that our men and women overseas may need a boost of holiday cheer, you could touch hundreds of service members’ lives this season. Talk to people, post on Facebook, send out Tweets or include a reminder in your holiday cards. Every person you impact also becomes an advocate, which can quickly multiply into hundreds of acts of support. Be proud to support our service men and women this year and encourage others to do the same. Although the holidays can be a difficult time for deployed service members and their families, there are countless ways you can show your gratitude and appreciation this season. Whether it’s a personalized gift, visit to a veteran, blood donation or support for their families, you can give back to those who give so much to our country.
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loved ones, but there are also former service members stateside who should be recognized. Show your appreciation for those who have helped protect our country by volunteering at your local VA hospital or nursing home this season, even if only for a few hours. You are sure to meet some fascinating men and women, and you’ll bring holiday cheer to those who may not have many visitors. Give blood It may not seem like it would directly impact men and women overseas, but giving blood through an organization like the American Red Cross can actually help troops hundreds and thousands of miles away. Military units may depend on rush shipments of blood during times of need, and maintaining an ample supply of all blood types is important. You may even host a blood drive at your workplace or community center, encouraging others to give the gift of life this holiday season. To find a blood drive or donation location near you, visit www.redcrossblood.org. Support troops’ families When troops are deployed, they leave their strongest supporters behind. Particularly during the holidays, it is important to remember the families of active duty service members in our communities. Whether it’s a parent, spouse or child of a deployed troop, someone in
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Twelve Days of Christmas Coloring Contest
Over the next five weeks, the Battle Creek Enquirer will be publishing a 12 Days of Christmas Coloring Contest. On 12 days between Thursday, November 22nd and Tuesday, December 18th, there will be a wrap on our newspaper. On the back of each of the wraps, we will feature one of the 12 Days of Christmas “gifts� for children to color. Purchase the paper each day for your child to color. The coloring page is located on the inside back of the wrap. Color and deliver all 12 days to the Battle Creek Enquirer to be eligible to win one of three $50 gift certificates from Meyer Toy World. Winners will be chosen from a random drawing. All packages must be received at the Battle Creek Enquirer no later than Thursday, December 20th, at noon. Winners will be contacted on December 21st by 5:00pm. Winners names will be published in the December 25th, Christmas Day edition of the Battle Creek Enquirer. Have fun!
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(BPT) - Ralph Waldo Emerson once said, “People are always getting ready to live but never living.” This year, take a few moments and think about how much nicer it would be if you could be enjoying the special moments with your family and friends. Instead of countless hours in the kitchen, slaving over a hot stove while your guests enjoy themselves in the next room, imagine if you could spend more time with them, sharing stories and enjoying their company. It can be done. It might be time to tweak some traditions, take a few shortcuts and rethink your personal holiday entertaining rules. There are many options to help you entertain in style without all the hassle (and you’ll still get rave reviews). Planning ahead can help you reduce stress and give you back your holidays. Consider these easy steps to simplify holiday entertaining: 1. Fill your freezer with tasty treats to pull out at a moment’s notice. Premade appetizers, entrees, sides and desserts that you can thaw, bake and serve are lifesavers during the holiday season. They do all the preparation; you get the glory. 2. Rethink traditions. Just because your mother and her mother spent two days preparing the Thanksgiving turkey dinner, it’s okay to give yourself permission to create new traditions that fit your lifestyle while tempting the taste buds of the special people in your life. Want to change things
up? How about a Hickory Smoked Spiral Sliced Ham for Thanksgiving this year? Using a fully cooked, slow-smoked ham as the star attraction will cut your preparation time on Thanksgiving by hours - and you’ll still have plenty of leftovers to enjoy after a day of bargain hunting on Black Friday. 3. Rent holiday entertainment items. There’s no need to store holiday entertaining items you may only use once a year. Many companies rent holiday serving items, china, wine glasses, tablecloths and more. The items come ready to use and when you’re finished with them, you simply send them back. No need to worry about storage space or washing linens. 4. Think potluck for entertaining. People are more than willing to bring a dish to pass for holiday gatherings. A simple request, like: “We’re going to try something new this year. I’d like you to bring your favorite appetizer, side dish, dessert, etc. I’ll provide the roast (of your choice) and beverages.” Few things are more social than a potluck meal. Do a little planning up front and you’ll have a wonderful meal where everyone can take a bow. So this year, break some rules and live your holidays to the fullest. Happy holidays!
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(BPT) - The holidays are a special time of year to show the important people in our lives how much we appreciate them — and that means gift-giving. If picking out holiday gifts is painless for you, you’re one of the lucky ones. More often than not, people have a tough time finding the perfect present for friends and family, particularly if you have someone on your list who already seems to have everything. So, if you’re stumped as to what to get that impossible-to-buy-for person, consider these five gift ideas that are sure to brighten anyone’s holiday: 1. Gift your services Rather than giving a tangible item, give your services; it’s the perfectly practical gift for the person on your list who may be short on space, lacking financial resources or would just appreciate a little extra help. Love kids? Offer free child care so the recipient can enjoy an evening out on the town without worrying about the little ones. Have a knack for cooking? Gift a weeknight meal that you deliver to the recipient’s doorstep. Known for your organization? Offer your skills to help the recipient organize a closet, office or other cluttered space. 2. Make a miracle happen Positively impacting others by giving a charitable gift in the recipient’s name embraces the true meaning of the season. The new Give Miracles Holiday Catalog from national nonprofit Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals features in-demand pediatric items and services that local children’s hospitals need — anything from comforting teddy bears ($30) to a case of extra-small preemie diapers smaller than the palm of your hand ($170)! For high-impact gifts like a physical therapy toy kit ($375) or a pediatric wheelchair ($970), funds can be collectively raised by numerous gift-givers. This option is ideal for extended families looking to do something more meaningful than the typical gift exchange.
And to make that ‘do-good’ feeling for the recipient last long after the holidays are over, Give Miracles donors receive ongoing communication from Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals throughout the year about how their gift is making an impact at their local hospital. Browse the gift catalog at www.GiveMiracles.org. 3. Purchase a membership to a monthly club Rather than wasting money on a new gadget that will quickly be forgotten, give a gift that benefits the recipient all year long. Monthly clubs provide fun deliveries to a loved one’s address, an ongoing reminder of your generosity. Monthly gift clubs are available for just about anything, from wine and beer, to jams and cheese, to bacon and fruit. 4. Give a gift that grows Potted plants are a fantastic gift idea because they represent how your love continues to grow for that special someone. Plus, plants are a wonderful addition to interior decor and help clean the air. With so many houseplants readily available, you’re sure to find the perfect one for the person who has everything. Does he gravitate toward decor with vivid color? Choose a flowering plant that provides delightful blooms. Does she love Asian culture? How about gifting a bonsai tree or a bamboo plant? 5. Provide an experience Often, it’s not what’s in the box, it’s the memory that stays with so many people after the holidays have passed. That’s why giving a special experience can make a truly meaningful gift. Think about what really interests the recipient or an activity they’ve had on their bucket list. Perhaps it’s a hot air balloon ride or a white water rafting daytrip. If the person really loves to shop, hire a personal shopper for the day and let them see what it’s like to live like a star. If the recipient loves gourmet food, purchase a spot in a class taught by your town’s hottest chef. Any one of these ideas is sure to show that hard-to-shop-for person on your list that you’ve put some real thought into their gift. And ultimately, isn’t it the thought that counts?
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(BPT) - Giving a great gift basket is like bestowing a buffet of gifts on your loved one, and when the well-put-together gift basket is opened, well, that’s a magical moment. Beneath the pretty decorations lie enchanting mysteries that emerge one-by-one to the delight of the recipient. The personal aspects of a gift basket are also endearing. You can customize a gift basket to the occasion (holiday, birthday, retirement, etc.) and tastes of the recipient, and taking the time to do so shows your thoughtfulness and caring. Building a great gift basket can be fun and easy. The gift experts at Cracker Barrel Old Country Store offer some advice for putting together a gift basket that will charm any recipient: Begin by deciding what to put in the gift basket - packaged food, gourmet coffees, collegiate items, apparel, candles, personal care items like soaps or lotions, cooking utensils, books, jewelry, home decor items, gardening tools, ornaments, picture frames, etc. Practically any hobby or area of interest can be an inspiration for a gift basket. Base your choice on the recipient’s personality and interests. Next, choose a container. Baskets, of course, are the classic container, but don’t overlook other options, especially if they fit the overall theme you’ve chosen. For example, load a toy football helmet with items inspired by his favorite football team. A large stockpot can be ideal for holding cooking utensils for a foodie or budding chef. A planter makes a useful and decorative container for gardening tools. Once you’ve chosen the perfect container, think about how you’ll arrange the items that go in it. First, add some decorative shredding (available in craft stores, or make your own with colored paper and a paper shredder) to help stabilize items in the container and make it look even more attractive. Then, follow these rules of thumb for arranging items: • Place tallest items in the back. If you’re using a round container, choose a side to serve as a visual ‘back.’ • Moving forward, stair step the rest of your items from tall to short. It’s OK if the rows are not perfectly straight or even. In fact, a little variance in the arrangement will make the basket look even more appealing. • Be sure to place packaged items with the most interesting side facing forward so it’s immediately
visible. For example, if you’ve included a bag of the recipient’s favorite coffee, make sure the brand name is showing so he or she will be able to tell at a glance what’s in the basket. • Be careful not to completely hide any items. It’s fine to have things peeping through here or there, but avoid burying anything on the bottom. Buried items could potentially get lost and tossed out with the shredding. • If you need to hold items in place, secure them using some glue lines or glue dots (also available in craft stores.) Fitting everything snugly is the key. Once your basket is artfully filled, place the entire container in a large cellophane bag. Gather the bag above the contents of the basket, then tie a bow at the narrowest part of the gathered bag. For smaller containers, pull the corners of the bag under the container and tape them. Trim any excess bag at the top. You can either hand-deliver your gift basket - which gives you the instant gratification of seeing the surprise and happiness on your loved one’s face - or ship it if that’s more convenient and practical. When shipping, be sure to package your basket securely. If you purchase a gift basket at Cracker Barrel, they will pack it for you at no extra cost and you just pay the actual shipping fee. If creating a gift basket yourself is not your cup of tea - or if you prefer to have an expert handle the job - the gift gurus at Cracker Barrel can do it for you based on your specifications. Visit shop.crackerbarrel.com to learn more.
Prepping Treats for School Fun? Tips for Dealing with Food Allergies (BPT) - With school back in session and the long holiday season right around the corner, you might be asked about bringing treats in for your child to share with the classroom. You’ll probably want to roll up your sleeves and dig through the recipe file for the yummiest treat you can find. Before you get started, be certain to find out if there are any children with food allergies in the classroom and the school. Food is a very important part of the school day - from snacks and treats to the lunch hour, but children with food allergies could face extreme consequences if they come in contact with certain foods. All states have laws governing how schools protect students and employees with allergies and asthma, but these laws vary from state to state. Each year the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America (AAFA) releases its State Honor Roll of Asthma and Allergy Policies for Schools, recognizing those states that are at the forefront of establishing policies, and pointing out other states that don’t yet make-the-grade. Check out what laws and policies have been established in your state at www.StateHonorRoll.org. Also keep the guidelines from your state in mind as you purchase or make treats for your child’s classroom: • Check with the classroom teacher and the school first about foods that should not be brought into school. Some children have extreme allergies, such as to peanuts, and can react to minimum contact like touching a door handle that had been previously touched by someone handling something with nuts. Any food can cause an allergic reaction, but milk, soy, eggs, wheat, peanuts, tree nuts, fish and shellfish allergies are some of the most common. If purchasing a snack, read the ingredients list carefully, and double check it against the allergy list provided by the school. • When preparing the foods - or shopping at the grocery store - make certain the foods you’ll be taking to the classroom don’t come in contact with foods that are barred from the school. This includes washing pots, pans and utensils thoroughly before blending ingredients when baking at home. • If your child has been diagnosed with a food allergy, consider making special treats he can enjoy without worrying about the snacks containing the foods he’s allergic to. Also develop an allergy action plan with your child’s doctor, teacher and the school nurse. A free asthma/allergy action card is available
from AAFA on the State Honor Roll website, which helps you outline what foods to avoid, what medications to keep (an epinephrine auto-injector is the best first-line emergency treatment), what to do in case of emergencies, who to contact and more. The AAFA site also has many other pages of free information and tips about food allergies. As the holiday parties start up this season, encourage your children to have fun, but also be mindful that some foods can cause their classmates to have serious reactions. And keep food allergies at the top of your thoughts when you’re asked to bring treats for a classroom party. It will help make the celebration much more fun - especially when the child with the allergy doesn’t have to worry about the foods she’s eating.
The perfect musical entertainment for your whole family! Spend your holidays the “Plaid” way at Great Escape! Ten performances from December 6th thru 16th
$10 – Thursday at 7:30 PM (12/6, 12/13) $18 – Saturday & Sunday Matinees at 3 PM (12/9, 12/15, 12/16) Wednesday at 7:30 PM (12/12) $20 – Friday & Saturday at 7:30 PM (12/7, 12/8, 12/14, 12/15) To order tickets, please call the Box Office at (269) 781 2700 or visit www.ShowTix4u.com. Find us on Facebook or on line at www.GreatEscapeStageCompany.com. Mention the code name “SPARKY” to receive $2 off each Friday or Saturday PM ticket
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Create Your Holiday Home with Lights (BPT) - When it comes to helps guests know where to focus their eyes. decorating with lights for • Add portable spotlights as highlights. These the holidays, there are small, inexpensive fixtures typically work with a unlimited ways to add tabletop dimmer and can create pretty silhouettes, twinkle to the inside as particularly under a Christmas tree, shining up well as the outside of your through the branches. home. Some people favor • Illuminate corners. When decorating with lights an elegant, restrained for the holidays, make your space feel larger by sprinkling of lights around placing spotlights in room corners to illuminate a door, while others go for dark spaces. a more exuberant display • Swap out lighting accents. Replacing a neutral of illumination on virtually lampshade with one that is red or gold will soften every surface. the light and create a pretty atmosphere when The American Lighting decorating with lights for the holidays. Replace Association (ALA) offers a chandelier’s crystal teardrops with gold, silver some holiday lighting tips or red glass balls, or add a few shade charms, and ideas: available at many craft stores, to add some sparkle • Make your home’s and fun. entrance a priority. “One of the great things about this time of year, The front door is more when there are a lot of festive gatherings, is that than just the entryway it’s all right to break away from a few traditions and into your home; it’s try some new things with lighting and decorating,” also a welcoming first says Bruce Hathaway, national sales manager for impression for family and friends. Start by adding a few, easy-to-install the Vermont-based lighting manufacturer Hubbardton Forge. landscape uplights to highlight trees and shrubs, or path lighting to • Check your dimmers. “Dimmers are ideal for creating that perfect illuminate a sidewalk or driveway. look, regardless of the season, because they allow for the general • Tree lighting uses the heights of trees to spread lighting to play a supporting role,” says Joe Rey-Barreau, the light out in a soft and subtle way to bathe education consultant for ALA and an associate professor at the area in light,’ says Richard Lentz, owner of the University of Kentucky’s School of Interior Design. Dallas-based Lentz Landscape Lighting and its • Update your powder room. “It’s often the smallest room, yet interiors division Lentz Services. Do-it-yourself if you measure the worth of the powder room by the amount tip: Go for low-voltage landscape lights, which of traffic a room gets per square foot, the powder room could are easy to install and consume less energy. easily be the most valuable space in your house,” says Rick • Add drama with color-changing lights. Newer Wiedemer, president of Hinkley Lighting. A few simple, extra LED lights can add custom color scenes that touches, such as a portable lamp with a colored shade, will complement a specific holiday decorating mood. make a huge impact. You can produce the exact ambiance you like at • Try novelty lights. Consider themed novelty lights for a bit any moment during your party or gathering this of fun when decorating for any holiday. “Try string lights in season. Colors can be changed at the push of shapes or LED crystal lights on a festive mantle,” says Edward a button without changing the fixture, making Cook, president of National Specialty Lighting in Colorado. these products useful year round. Visit your local ALA-member lighting showroom to discover • Use lighting to create a focal point. Lights more ideas for decorating with lights for the holidays. For can draw attention to virtually anything - a information, visit www.AmericanLightingAssoc.com. centerpiece, buffet, unusual decoration - which
Top Tech Gifts for $300 or Less (BPT) - If visions of smartphones have replaced the sugarplums in your holiday dreams, you’re not alone. More than 35 percent of Americans include consumer electronics on the list of gifts they want to receive for the holidays, according to the National Retail Federation (NRF). With the NRF predicting consumer spending this holiday season will increase 4 percent over 2011, it seems likely demand for tech gifts will keep pace. High-tech gifts don’t have to be high cost, too. You can find a variety of useful and fun, user-friendly and elegant tech gifts for less than $300. So when you’re making your holiday shopping list, keep these ideas in mind: Home theater for a song - While LG suggests a price of $329 for the BH6720S – 3D-Capable Blu-Ray Disc Home Theater System with Smart TV and built-in Wi-Fi, you can find it only for $250 to $300. The 5.1 channel speaker system includes four satellite speakers, a center channel speaker and a subwoofer to give you a real theater experience in the comfort of your own living room. ‘Connected’ players like this access to a variety of content and services from the Internet, including movies and music from providers such as Netflix, Hulu Plus, VUDU, CinemaNow, YouTube, Pandora, MOG and more. All online content can be accessed via a home network using the player’s built-in Wi-Fi connectivity. They’ve got you covered - Even if you love your iPad (and who doesn’t?), there are times when you yearn for an actual keyboard. The Logitech Ultrathin Keyboard Cover attaches to your iPad with magnets and functions as a keyboard. A leading product review site called it ‘the best keyboard accessory ever made for the iPad.’ Prices range around $100, depending on where you buy. Great tunes cubed - From serving as a dock for your iPod, iPhone or iPad to functioning as a good old-fashioned alarm clock with FM radio, LG’s ND8520 does it all. The unique cube design delivers premium sound with its 2.1 Channel speaker system and built-in subwoofer. It’s also Airplay compatible, so you can easily stream your favorite tunes wirelessly. Android phone users can wirelessly stream their music via Bluetooth. The suggested retail price is $299, but you can probably find deals online. All charged up - Who hasn’t been caught with a low cellphone battery and no place to plug it in? Duracell’s Instant USB Charger makes it easy to keep any mini-USB powered device powered up on the go. With a lithium-ion battery and universal cable, the charger provides up to three hours of backup power for your cell phone. MSRP is around $40, but
you can likely find it for less online. Web-cams move you - The whole concept of web cameras is amazing; they allow you to see and communicate remotely via your PC with people on the other side of the world or just across the street. But most web cameras require you to sit in one spot, in front of your PC, at a certain distance for optimum resolution. The Logitech Quickcam Orbit AF (around $175 on Amazon) solves both those problems. A motorized lens and intelligent face-tracking helps keep the camera on you, even if you move. And, the camera can handle even extreme close-ups. Gamers Rejoice - Call of Duty: Black Ops II, the most highly-anticipated video game of the year, is available just in time for the holidays. Set in the year 2025, the game propels players into global conflict featuring advanced weaponry, robotics, and drone warfare in a new Cold War scenario whose seeds are being sown in today’s headlines.- For an even more visceral gameplay experience, Call of Duty: Black Ops II is also playable in 3D!- It’ll be available for Xbox 360, PlayStation 3 and PC for roughly $60. Great tech gifts will be welcome under almost any tree, and with some careful shopping and creative thinking you can find deals that ensure you’re not paying for those gifts well into the new year.
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