Find something
for everyone on your list
for the foodie
for the adventure seeker
for the teenager for the sports fanatic
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Contents for the adventure seekers
maine gifts
02 OUTDOOR-INSPIRED GIFT IDEAS
12 OUR FAVORITE MAINE GIFTS
04 UNIQUE WAYS TO GIVE THE EXPERIENCE OF TRAVEL
for the tech savvy
for sports fans 06 SPORTS EXPERIENCES FOR TOP FANS
for foodies 08 6 GREAT GIFTS FOR HOME COOKS 10 EASY STRAWBERRY SWEET ROLL RECIPE
20 THE LATEST GADGETS & HOTTEST GIFTS
for teens & gamers 22 GIFTS FOR TEENS & GAMERS
for new parents 24 GREAT GIFTS FOR NEW PARENTS
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FOR ADVENTURE SEEKERS
Outdoor-Inspire�
G I F T I D E AS
Bureau of Economic Analysis revealed that the outdoor recreation industry contributed $412 billion to the U.S. Gross Domestic Product in 2016. The industry also employed around 4.55 million people, highlighting just how popular outdoor recreation has become. Millennials are helping drive the growing interest in the great outdoors, as this demographic now accounts for 38 percent of the 75 million active camper households in the United States, according to an independent 2017 North American Camping Report. When shopping for the outdoor enthusiast on their list this holiday season, shoppers can consider these gifts that cater to avid campers, hikers and explorers. CAMPING SURPRISES People who can’t resist sleeping under the stars will appreciate gifts that make camping excursions even more special. Kampgrounds of America offers gift cards that are accepted at any of their many campsites, which help cover the fees for the site and camp store purchases. Any new gear, whether it be sleeping bags/pads, water filtration devices, tents, fuel, or cooking supplies also make great gifts for campers. A high-quality cast-iron skillet or Dutch oven is a gift that can last for years. 2 / HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE 2019
HIKING ADVENTURES The right gear can make a hike even more enjoyable. A durable hiking pack, compass or GPS tracker, comfortable hiking shoes, polarizing sunglasses, collapsible hammock, and/or hiking food packs make great gifts for seasoned or even novice hikers. Tickets for transportation to Appalachian Trail trailheads, or other notable trails across the country, also can be fitting gifts. CYCLING TREATS Cycling can be a recreational pursuit, a means of commuting or a great way to shed a few pounds. Research from Breakaway Research Group for People for Bikes found that 100 million Americans bike each year. Statistics Canada indicates that around 41 percent of Canadians ages 12 and older cycle each year. Gifts focusing on cycling can appeal to cyclists of all ages. Gifts can include cleaning and lube kits, a mini tire inflater, portable repair tools, a bike phone mount, a wearable bicycle cable lock, and a bicycle storage rack. The great outdoors beckons many people. Shoppers have numerous options at their disposal when looking for gifts for the outdoor enthusiasts on their shopping lists.
PHOTOS: (TOP) ©SHINGO INOUE/ADOBE STOCK; (LEFT) ©NATALIIA VYSHNEVA, ©MARIDAV, ©BLAS/ADOBE STOCK
The
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FOR ADVENTURE SEEKERS
UNIQUE WAYS TO GIVE THE
Experience of Travel Many
people have a passion for traveling. Whether a traveler can’t resist sleeping under the stars at a local campsite or refuse the call of a bustling city overseas, travel beckons people from all walks of life. The travel experience is unique, and it’s an experience that holiday shoppers can provide for their loved ones who can’t wait to dust off their passports or simply get in their cars and drive to a favorite destination near or far. • AIRLINE MILES: The cost of airline tickets can be prohibitive and has deterred many a would-be traveler from visiting a dream destination. However, holiday shoppers with ample airline miles on their credit cards may be able to transfer those miles to a loved one. Such a transfer can dramatically reduce the cost of an airline ticket, opening the door to a wonderful travel experience for a friend or family member who otherwise might not be able to afford a trip. Rules about transferring miles vary depending on the airline, and transfer fees may apply. But this is a unique way to give the gift of travel. • GAS CARD: Of course, flying is not the only way to get from point A to point B. The gift of free gasoline can help road warriors explore their passion for the open road without breaking the bank. Gas prices tend to rise during spring and summer, so make sure gift cards purchased during the holiday season won’t expire before the weather warms up. • CAMERA: Many people feel the experience of travel is best documented through photography. A brand new camera that can create better photos than a typical smartphone camera can help travelers more effectively document their trips while creating vivid memories they can enjoy for the rest of their lives. • ANCESTRY KIT: While an ancestry kit might not qualify as a traditional experiential gift, knowing one’s ancestry might open doors to future travels. For example, many countries’ citizenship rules allow people born overseas to apply for citizenship if they have a relative, such as a grandparent, who was born in the country. Earning foreign citizenship and ultimately obtaining a foreign passport can simplify overseas travel by helping them avoid long lines at customs. That can inspire more people to travel overseas. In addition, people often learn new and surprising things about their ancestry after submitting ancestry kits, which can prompt trips to destinations people otherwise may never have considered. The experience of travel can make for a great holiday gift that recipients may cherish for the rest of their lives.
4 / HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE 2019
PHOTO: ©KARANDAEV/ADOBE STOCK
www.bangordailynews.com BANGOR DAILY NEWS / 5
FOR SPORTS FANS
Sports Experiences FOR TOP FANS
Game
day is a big day for sports fans. While the anticipation in the days before a big game can be exciting, nothing can match the game itself. When shopping for the sports fan on their list this holiday season, shoppers may want to go the extra mile and gift a sports-based experience. Experiential gifts are rising in popularity. According to a 2017 survey from The NPD Group, a leading global information company, 39 percent of holiday shoppers in the United States intended to purchase experiential gifts for their loved ones that year. Sports fans may love a new jersey, but they would no doubt really love a gift that makes them feel like they’re part of the action. Shoppers who want to give a sports experience to their favorite fanatic this holiday season can consider these ideas.
LESSONS Some fans not only want to watch their favorite sports, but also play them. For example, fans who follow professional surfing might be able to take their own abilities to the next level after taking some lessons from a local instructor. Many community parks organizations even provide affordable lessons for sports such as cross country skiing, fishing and cycling that can provide great value to shoppers and gift recipients alike. A ROUND Golf fans who can’t get enough of the PGA Tour® may dream of playing a course once graced by their favorite professional players. The PGA Tour® holds events at clubs across the globe, and many of these clubs allow non-members to play rounds for a fee. That fee can be high, but avid golfers will be sharing stories about a round at a favorite course for the rest of their lives. Experiential gifts are tailor-made for sports fans, making them ideal options come the holiday season.
6 / HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE 2019
PHOTO: (BACKGROUND) ©BARSELONA DREAMS/ADOBE STOCK; © SEAN LOCKE PHOTOGRAPHY, ©JACOB LUND, ©DUDAREV MIKHAIL/ADOBE STOCK
TICKETS Perhaps no sports experience is more enjoyable to a true fan than tickets to the big game. Tickets to see a favorite team play make for a great gift that fans may remember for the rest of their lives. Purchase at least two tickets so your loved one has someone to make memories with. Compare tickets sold directly through the team to those available through reputable secondary market sellers like StubHub and SeatGeek.
www.bangordailynews.com BANGOR DAILY NEWS / 7
FOR FOODIES
6 GREAT GIFTS FOR
Home Cooks Many
people enjoy preparing homecooked meals for their loved ones. Whether it’s a large family gathering during the holiday season or a weeknight meal for their immediate families, men, women and even children who like to cook enjoy the satisfied looks on their loved ones’ faces after sharing a delicious meal. Come the holiday season, gift givers can put the same satisfied look on the faces of the home cooks in their lives by offering a variety of gifts that can make mealtime easier and/or more enjoyable.
2. COOKBOOK: People who understand the joy of cooking often love to experiment in the kitchen. Cookbooks can be an ideal gift for such cooks. Choose a book that provides recipes from their favorite styles of cuisine, such as Italian or Indian food. Or find a book that offers an array of recipes that allows them to explore various types of cuisine. 3. COOKWARE: Even the best cookware can only take so much usage, and chances are home cooks’ pantries can afford an upgrade or two. Gift givers should keep in mind that many home cooks have strong preferences regarding their cookware, so it might be wise to give a gift card or ask a loved one which type of cookware he or she prefers. Of course, a covert inspection of a loved one’s pantry might provide the insight gift givers need as well. 8 / HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE 2019
PHOTOS: (TOP) ©FAZEFUL/ADOBE STOCK; (LEFT) ADOBE STOCK
1. ELECTRIC CORKSCREW: Nothing complements a good meal quite like an appropriately paired bottle of wine. Cooks who are too busy in the kitchen to utilize traditional corkscrews, which can be time-consuming and messy, might enjoy an electric corkscrew. Such corkscrews quickly remove corks from wine bottles, requiring little effort on the part of already busy cooks.
4. ROLLING PIN: For the person who loves to bake, a rolling pin might make a better gift than noncooks may appreciate. Rolling pins are necessary to prepare many baked goods, and a customizable rolling pin can flatten dough to the exact millimeter, helping bake-happy home cooks prepare the perfect plate of cookies. 5. COOKING CLASS: Cooking classes can make the ideal gift for novice home cooks who are just beginning to explore their love of cooking. But advanced classes can help more seasoned cooks perfect their craft as they learn to prepare more complex dishes. 6. WINE AERATOR: Much like electric corkscrews can make opening bottles of wine much easier, wine aerators can help aerate red wine more quickly than decanters, which can take up to two hours to fully aerate wine. Aerators oxidate red wine, softening its flavors and bringing out the aromas that can make a great bottle of wine that much more enjoyable. The holiday season presents a perfect opportunity to make cooking that much more enjoyable. www.bangordailynews.com BANGOR DAILY NEWS / 9
FOR FOODIES
Easy Strawberry Sweet Rolls
WITH LEMON GLAZE
BY SARAH WALKER CARON SERVES: 3-4
Ingredients
1 sheet puff pastry, thawed 3 tbsp strawberry jam ½ cup powdered sugar 2 tsp lemon juice
Instructions
Preheat oven to 425 degrees Fahrenheit. Grease an 8x8-inch glass pan with butter or oil. Spread the puff pastry out on a cutting board and top with jam. Spread the jam to the edges (keep it thin at the edges). Roll into a spiral. Cut the dough into six pieces — about 1-inch thick each. Place in the prepared pan. Bake for 15-20 minutes until golden. Remove from the oven. In a small bowl, stir together the powdered sugar and lemon juice. Drizzle over the sweet rolls. Enjoy immediately.
SARAH WALKER CARON is the senior features editor for the Bangor Daily News, editor of Bangor Metro magazine and the author of several cookbooks including “The Easy Appetizer Cookbook.” For more great recipes, check out her column “In Season Now” in Bangor Metro.
10 / HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE 2019
PHOTOS: (TOP) ©BAIBA OPULE/ADOBE STOCK; (MIDDLE) SARAH WALKER CARON
ENTERTAIN HOLIDAY CROWDS WITH THESE SIMPLE TO MAKE SWEET ROLLS
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MAINE GIFTS
Our
Favorite
MAINE GIFTS
12 / HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE 2019
So many amazing things are made right here in Maine.
We asked our staff to share their favorite Maine-made gifts to give (and get). From MARCIE S COOMB
GR APHIC R DESIGNE
WHAT MAINE-MADE GIFT DO YOU LOVE TO GIVE? Sew Fetch Dog Co. collars. WHY IT'S SPECIAL: With around 100 designs usually in stock, these hand sewn whimsical and classic designs will delight the canine parent on your gift list! Sew Fetch Dog Co. even lets you choose the buckle (martingale, plastic or metal) and there is a customizable option that allows you to have their name embroidered! WHO IT'S PERFECT FOR: All the pups on your list. COST: Cost varies, but most collars are $17.99. WHERE TO GET IT: Visit their etsy site at sewfetchdogcollars.etsy.com, find them on Facebook, or visit the new storefront at 25 Main St. in Machias!
From C AROLIN GR APHIC DESIGNER
A R AVE
WHAT MAINE-MADE GIFT DO YOU LOVE TO GIVE? Stonewall Kitchen wild Maine blueberry jam. WHY IT'S SPECIAL: I recently traveled to Colombia — where I’m from — and brought with me a few of these small jars to give to my friends as souvenirs. I really wanted to share a little bit of Maine with them and the jams were a big hit! This jam is packed with flavor and conveniently sold in different sizes. WHO IT'S PERFECT FOR: This gift is perfect for anyone in your list! COST: A 3.75 oz. jar goes for $3.50, and a 12.5 oz. jar costs $7.95. WHERE TO GET IT: You can get Stonewall Kitchen products locally at Rebecca’s in downtown Bangor, or shop online at www.stonewallkitchen.com.
www.bangordailynews.com BANGOR DAILY NEWS / 13
MAINE GIFTS
From SA R A H LL COTTRE
UTOR CONTRIB
WHAT MAINE-MADE GIFT DO YOU LOVE TO GIVE? During the holidays, I reserve a special gift for my most treasured friends — the most decadent cheesecake made from local farm-fresh ingredients and baked with love by The Maine Cheese Company in Belfast, Maine. WHY IT'S SPECIAL: Their chocolate-covered, individual cheesecakes are the perfect way to spread some cheer especially for those holiday gatherings when you’re looking for something special to bring but you don’t have time to master a fancy recipe. WHO IT'S PERFECT FOR: Just about everyone! COST: Prices start at $6 for a set of four individual cakes, $30 for a seven-inch cake, and $50 for a 10-inch cake. WHERE TO GET IT: The Maine Cheesecake Company is located at the United Farmers Market of Belfast at 18 Spring St. in Belfast, every Saturday from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. You can preorder favorites like the chocolate ganache covered cheesecake, the raspberry swirl, or the super popular salted caramel by emailing mainecheesecakeco@gmail.com.
14 / HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE 2019
From AMY ALL EN WHAT MAINE-MADE GIFT DO YOU LOVE TO GIVE? I love to give books as gifts, particularly ones by Maine authors and illustrators. I’ve given “The Circus Ship” by Chris Van Dusen to just about every kid I know because it’s such a fun book to read and look at — and the true story behind the book is a cool piece of Maine history. Van Dusen is also the illustrator of the Mercy Watson series, which are perfect for kids who are starting to read chapter books (my 8-year-old has several on his own Christmas list). For the grown-ups on the list, Bangor’s own Stephen King has a new book out, “The Institute,” which will hopefully make its way into my stocking if I can wait that long to read it. WHY IT'S SPECIAL: Sharing your love of a great book is an amazing way to connect with loved ones, and giving books by Maine authors is like giving a little piece of Maine to out-ofstate friends and family.
WHO IT'S PERFECT FOR: Anyone who loves to read!
SECTIONS EDITOR & DESIGN ER
COST: Varies. WHERE TO GET IT: Some of my favorite places to buy books (and get book recommendations) are The Briar Patch and The Willie Wags (check out their Blind Date with a Book collection — a super fun gift idea) in downtown Bangor. Gerald Winters and Son in Bangor is a great place to find lots of Stephen King books and collectibles, among other unique book-related gifts. Left Bank Books in Belfast and BookStacks in Bucksport are a couple other great bookstores to check out.
More great books to give...
The Bangor Daily News is proud to have many accomplished writers on staff, including Sarah Walker Caron, John Holyoke and Aislinn Sarnacki who have all released books just this year! This diverse selection of local books make great gifts and can be found in downtown Bangor at The Briar Patch, Epic Sports and more, as well as online. SARAH WALKER CARON: Her cookbooks include “One-Pot Pasta,” “The Super Easy 5-Ingredient Cookbook,” and “Grains as Mains.” Her latest cookbook, “The Easy Appetizer Cookbook,” is out now from Rockridge Press. JOHN HOLYOKE: A longtime BDN Outdoors writer, John just released his first book. “Evergreens” is a collection of BDN pieces from over the years.
PHOTOS: (BACKGROUND) ADOBE STOCK
AISLINN SARNACKI: An expert on the Maine outdoors, Aislinn is author of the guidebooks “Maine Hikes Off the Beaten Path,” “Family Friendly Hikes in Maine” and the newly released “Dog-Friendly Hikes in Maine.”
MAINE GIFTS WHAT MAINE-MADE GIFT DO YOU LOVE TO GIVE? Old fashioned folding clothes drying racks made in Peru, Maine.
CONTRIBUTOR
WHO IT'S PERFECT FOR: Anyone who spends their time picking up after children or wants to save money on the electric bill with one or two less loads of laundry a day. COST: Cost varies depending on size and style. They start at around $20. WHERE TO GET IT: You can buy these at Renys department stores throughout the state. They’re usually displayed seasonally right before the holidays!
From W ER B A RB MO G ADVERTISIN & L AYOUT ATOR COORDIN
PHOTO: ©KOLDUNOVA/ADOBE STOCK
From EMILY MORRISON
WHY IT'S SPECIAL: In my house, there’s never enough space to hang wet hats, mittens, scarves, and coats after a good Nor’easter blows through. These lovely racks come in three different styles with two sizes in each style. They’re made of pine from a sawmill in Bethel, Maine and the dowels are made of birch from another Maine manufacturer. Needless to say, they smell heavenly. I also love how my kids can hang up their outdoor gear in the entryway now instead of sloshing through the house like wet marshmallows. As cute as it sounds, it’s not that cute.
WHAT MAINE-MADE GIFT DO YOU LOVE TO GIVE? Adult beverages from Mossy Ledge Spirits in Etna. WHY IT’S SPECIAL: For the grown-ups on your list, what’s better than handcrafted, locally made vodka, whiskey, cordials and rum? Mossy Ledge’s cinnamon and peppermint cordials (a cordial is like schnapps, but not as sweet and great for mixing) are perfect for the holidays. And my favorite, toasted coconut, is ideal for getting you out of the winter doldrums. The tasting room in Etna is also a fun spot to visit — whether you need a break from holiday shopping or just want to do all your shopping right there! WHO IT’S PERFECT FOR: Anyone who needs to get in the Christmas “spirit.”
WHERE TO GET IT: From Mossy Ledge Spirits’ tasting room at 1097 Lakins Road in Etna or at local stores like Damon’s Beverage, Stomper’s, Hannaford in Newport and many more locations — find a complete list at www.mossyledgespirits.com. Their website also offers fun apparel, flasks and gift cards, as well as funky cocktail recipes like the Hot N Dirty made with Holy Hell jalapeno-infused vodka — perfect for warming up on a cold day! 16 / HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE 2019
PHOTO: (BACKGROUND) ©NADIANB/ADOBE STOCK
COST: Varies.
Fr om K ATIE SMITH
CONT RIBUTO R
WHAT MAINE-MADE GIFT DO YOU LOVE TO GIVE? My favorite gift to give all the purse-carriers in my life is a handbag or wallet from Kurier. WHY IT'S SPECIAL: I got my first Ellis 3-in-1 bag from Kurier bag a few years ago for Christmas. It can be worn as a cross body, an over the shoulder purse, or a backpack, which makes it my go-to bag whether I’m off for the day with my kids, or going out with my girlfriends. WHO IT'S PERFECT FOR: Every woman needs a unique handmade purse made right here in Maine. The shop is chockfull of one-of-a-kind supple leather bags made from American and Italian leathers. There’s a wallet, purse, or tote for everyone on your list. Whether you are looking for a punch of color for someone on your list (or yourself!) like turquoise, apple red, or forest green or want to go with a classic neutral like black or tan, you will find exactly what you are looking for. COST: Kurier has something to fit every budget with items ranging from $22-$298. WHERE TO GET IT: Kurier is located at 247b Congress Street in Portland, Maine, and you can also order items online at shopkurier.com. www.bangordailynews.com BANGOR DAILY NEWS / 17
MAINE GIFTS From ANDY CONSTANTINE
NATIONAL SALES REP
WHAT MAINE-MADE GIFT DO YOU LOVE TO GIVE? Maine lobsters from Young’s Lobster Pound. WHY IT'S SPECIAL: Young’s is a great spot to bring friends and outof-towners during the summer — so what better way to say Happy Holidays than having fresh Maine lobster delivered to someone’s door? You can also order fresh scallops, clams, mussels and more. WHO IT'S PERFECT FOR: Anyone who loves fresh Maine seafood. It’s a great gift for someone who’s moved out of state and would like a taste of Maine during the holidays.
WHERE TO GET IT: Young’s Lobster Pound in Belfast. You can place an order online through www.youngslobsters.com and have them packed on ice and shipped overnight through FedEx. They can also package them to-go if you’d like to deliver the critters personally.
WHAT MAINE-MADE GIFT DO YOU LOVE TO GIVE? A gift certificate for an adventure with Acadia Mountain Guides Climbing School. WHY IT'S SPECIAL: I love the idea of giving an “experience” — particularly for the hard-to-shop-for people on your list. Acadia Mountain Guides offers the ultimate experience — a tailor-made guided rock climbing adventure in Acadia National Park. They offer ice climbing in the winter and rock climbing all summer, along with summer camps for kids and much more. WHO IT'S PERFECT FOR: Anyone who’s hard to shop for and up for an adventure. COST: Varies depending on the adventure. WHERE TO GET IT: Find information at acadiamountainguides.com or (207) 288-8186.
From CORALIE CROSS CREATIVE MANAGER
18 / HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE 2019
PHOTOS: (LOBSTER) ©NAT BOWORNPHATNON/ ADOBE STOCK; (CLIMBING) VITALIY MATEHA/ ADOBE STOCK
COST: Varies.
Still not sure what to give? How about a donation
in a loved one’s name to a special Maine charity. Donations are easy to tailor so it’s meaningful for the recipient. There are thousands of worthy causes to support — here are just a few of our favorites:
Sarah’s House — Sarah’s House of Maine is a non-profit hospitality house which provides lodging for folks traveling to the greater Bangor area for cancer treatments and services. A donation would be especially meaningful for cancer survivors and those whose lives have been touched by cancer. Donations can be made at www.sarahshouseofmaine.org — or connect to their Amazon wishlist to purchase an item.
Humane Society — There are dozens of very worthy humane society programs all over Maine, dedicated to connecting homeless pets with their forever homes. Make a donation in honor of a special someone who loves animals. To support the Bangor Humane Society, visit www.bangorhumane.org. You can also find a list of items the organization is in need of — perfect to add to your holiday shopping list.
Good Shepherd Food Bank of Maine — The mission of Good Shepherd Food Bank is to eliminate hunger in Maine. A donation would be a great choice for the foodie on your list. Make your donation at www.gsfb.org and fill out the Tribute Gifts section to have an acknowledgement of your gift sent to the honoree.
PHOTOS: (BACKGROUND) ©NEW AFRICA/ ADOBE STOCK; (OTHERS) ADOBE STOCK
Literacy Volunteers — Thousands of people around the state have trouble reading. Literacy Volunteers understand that when adults improve their literacy, everyone in their family stands to have their lives improve as well. Bookworms on your holiday list would appreciate this donation in their honor. To make a donation to Literacy Volunteers of Bangor and learn more, visit www.lvbangor.org.
Shaw House — The Shaw House mission is to engage Bangorarea youth who are homeless, or at-risk of becoming homeless, in achieving stability and a viable plan for the future by providing a safe, stable environment. A donation would touch the heart of any teacher or person who loves kids. Make a financial donation at www.theshawhouse.org, where you can also find a wish list of items if you’d prefer to shop and make a donation of goods.
www.bangordailynews.com BANGOR DAILY NEWS / 19
FOR THE TECH SAVVY
THE LATEST GADGETS &
Hottest Gifts JUST A HANDFUL OF THE ITEMS THAT WILL BE COVETED THIS HOLIDAY SEASON
The
• AMAZON ECHO SHOW 5: This is the latest incarnation of the Echo Show at a more affordable price point than past incarnations. The screen is a smart display and enables users to make video calls, play games, watch videos, check the weather, and control smart home devices. A new privacy feature allows users to turn off the camera and microphone when the device isn’t in use. • BATTERY PACK CASE: There’s no need to waste time sitting by the phone charger waiting for popular iPhones to revive their batteries with a battery pack case. A charging case provides extra talk time or video streaming and fits comfortably on various models.
20 / HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE 2019
PHOTOS: (TOP) ©TIERNEY/ ADOBE STOCK; (LEFT) RAWPIXEL LTD./ ADOBE STOCK; (OTHERS) ADOBE STOCK
holiday season is synonymous with many things, including exchanging gifts with friends and loved ones. Each year, certain items prove more trendy than others. Get the scoop on the gear and gadgets that are bound to be on the top of wish lists this year.
• VICTSING WIRELESS SHOWER SPEAKER: Whether a friend or loved one is practicing for a night out at karaoke or enjoys getting pumped up in the morning with upbeat tunes, a waterproof shower speaker is a hot gift. It can stream music or bluetooth calls from a phone. • FITBIT FITNESS TRACKER: A Fitbit product is certain to be a winner for fitness enthusiasts. The Fitbit Charge HR Wireless Activity Wristband is an affordable option capable of tracking workouts. It also can sync with a phone and is water-resistant. • BLINK XT HOME SECURITY CAMERA: People with security on their minds, including those who want to keep tabs on their homes while they’re at work or on vacation, may cherish this security camera. The newest version is weatherproof and has cloud storage. Motion detection will set off an alert on a person’s phone or tablet in real time. • TILE TRACKERS: Handy Tile gadgets connect to keys, bags and other belongings that frequently go missing. Simply connect to the app and the device will ring, identifying the location. The upgraded version covers 200 feet and has a louder volume. • IROBOT BRAAVA ROBOT MOP: This powerful robot will mop and sweep tile and hardwood floors. Pair it with the traditional iRobot vacuum and an entire house can be cleaned without lifting a finger.
www.bangordailynews.com BANGOR DAILY NEWS / 21
FOR TEENS & GAMERS
GIFTS FOR
Teens & Students Gifting
a teenager is often easier said than done. With holidays, graduations and more on the horizon, parents, aunts, uncles, and others may need some ideas as they begin shopping for gifts for their teenaged loved ones.
• SECURED CREDIT CARD: Teenagers who do not already have their own credit cards may benefit from taking on this financial responsibility now that they’re on the verge of becoming independent. Establishing a strong credit history can be an asset in the years to come. According to Bankrate, a secured card requires a cash collateral deposit that will become the credit line for the account. Such cards can teach teens money management while ensuring they will not accrue debt. • TRAVEL: Life experiences are valuable education tools, and traveling can teach teens lessons about the world beyond their home cities and towns. Teens who have not done much travel may appreciate the chance to get away. Gift-givers can finance airline tickets, pre-packaged tours or foreign exchange excursions. 22 / HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE 2019
PHOTOS: ©IRYNA, ©FLY_DRAGONFLY, ©IHAR ULASHCHYK, ©TATYANA GLADSKIH, ©PIXEL-SHOT/ ADOBE STOCK
• COOKING LESSONS: Instead of cooking for themselves, many young people prefer to dine out or order in. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics says people between the ages 15 and 24 spent between 11 and 17 minutes daily on food preparation and clean-up activities in the last decade. Helping teens and young adults hone their culinary skills can help them save money and develop a rewarding skill that can pay dividends for years to come.
GIFTS FOR GAMERS
V ideo
games have a strong and enduring fanbase. Since their inception in the early 1970s, video games have been a popular component of personal recreation and culture. The Entertainment Software Association’s annual report says 65 percent of homes in the United States own a gaming device, while 48 percent own “a dedicated game console.” The report also indicates consumers spent $25.5 billion on gaming in 2015, with $16.5 billion on gaming content alone. The holiday season is a prime time to outfit gamers with new gear. When shopping for gifts for gamers, keep these suggestions in mind. NEW CONSOLE: Gamers have more console options than ever before. Shoppers can choose between the ultra-portable Nintendo Switch; the Xbox One X, which boasts 4K capability; and the PS4. For those who don’t know where to start, a console upgrade can be the way to go. CONTROLLER CHARGER: Video game controller chargers and docks can give renewed power to controllers. Thanks to a charger, controllers will always be powered up and at the ready when it’s time to play. CONTENT GIFT CARD: Gift-givers can offer gift cards to favorite video game stores and online gaming content, including Steam. Steam is a digital distributor platform for PC gaming that also features social networking services. GAMING HEADSETS: The right headset can immerse gamers more fully in the sounds and actions of their favorite games. An attached microphone enables gamers to keep in contact with multiple players. CLASSIC GAME CARTRIDGE SYSTEM: Retro game systems enable classic game enthusiasts to plug in their old cartridges and output them to the TV over HDMI.
• TUITION REIMBURSEMENT: Funding further education can be a great gift for young adults. Speak with a tax professional before writing a check. This can ensure teens are not forced to pay gift taxes. Giftgivers also may want to pay for room and board, textbooks, meal plans, or any additional college expenses. Teenagers and young adults may seem like they have it all. But there are many gifts that can help teens as they begin the next chapters in their lives.
WIRELESS CONTROLLERS: If the console didn’t come with a wireless controller, it’s time to upgrade. Wireless versions enable players to move wherever they need to and not be restricted by the length of a cable. GAMING KEYBOARDS: A gaming keyboard puts those who do the bulk of their gaming on PCs or streaming computer displays over TV in greater control. SOUND BAR: Turn that action into impressive sound with a sound bar hooked up to the television. Built-in bass or a separate subwoofer can amplify the tone even further. There are many options for getting coveted gifts for gamers this holiday season.
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FOR NEW PARENTS
Great Gift Ideas for
NEW PARENTS A
24 / HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE 2019
baby’s first holiday season is a special time. Baby Center states that slightly less than four million babies are born in the United States each year. In Canada, around 390,000 babies are born annually, according to data from Statistics Canada. That means there are millions of new parents out there who are looking forward to their first holiday season with their newborn children. Come the holiday season, gift givers can offer new parents presents that are fitting for their new roles and responsibilities, as well as some gifts that pamper parents who are learning on the job just how tiring caring for a little one can be.
like Amazon Mom and streaming services like Netflix can make new parents’ daily lives a little less complex.
· CHILDHOOD JOURNAL: A journal can be a keepsake that new parents cherish for years to come. They can record all of the things their child does through the years as well as all the off-the-cuff remarks made by children who are learning to speak.
· SLEEP AIDS: Sleep is a rare commodity for new parents. White noise makers, instructional books or DVDs on sleep strategies, or other devices for helping baby (and parent) self soothe to enjoy a restful night’s sleep can make for a perfect gift.
· SUBSCRIPTION SERVICE: Enroll new parents in a subscription service for streaming movies, free delivery, groceries, or any of the other myriad services now available. Newly minted parents spend a lot of time indoors until they develop a knack for taking their babies out on routine trips. The convenience of services
· DOUBLE-DUTY JEWELRY: Designers now create necklaces that look fashionable but also double as teething toys for babies.
· CLEANING SERVICE: New parents find time is often in short supply. While parents are tending to their newborns, other tasks may fall by the wayside. A cleaning service means new parents will have one less chore on their to-do lists.
· FREE BABYSITTING: Of course, new parents will love complimentary babysitting, which allows new parents to get out of the house and unwind for a little bit.
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· GIFT CARD TO A SPA: Birthing and caring for a child is hard work. New moms and dads may enjoy an hour free from baby duty to relax and recharge at a spa for a massage or facial.