December 21, 2022

(NAPSI)—Here’s a hint to help everyone breathe easier this holiday season: Before you head out the door to your next holiday function, make sure your breath is set for close conversation by knowing the culprits of bad breath and the simple solutions that keep you safe from catching an unwelcome whi .

“Bad breath can be from skipping healthy oral hygiene habits or it can be indicative of a deeper issue,” said Kyle Dosch, DDS, Delta Dental of Washington’s dental director and member dentist. “Combining good habits and consistent visits to the dentist will help keep halitosis away.”

Why Bad Breath

ere are many causes of bad breath, and even those who are diligent about their oral hygiene can su er from it. e most common are:

• Dehydration: Not consuming enough water can lead to a decrease in saliva production, causing bacteria in the mouth to grow.

• Dry mouth: Saliva contains antimicrobial properties that help eliminate bad breath. When this saliva is not naturally produced, it can cause your breath to smell stale.

• Lack of denture cleanliness: If you have dentures, food particles can get stuck in them, and if le overnight, they can begin to break down and cause bad breath. Consistently removing dentures at night and regularly cleaning them is important.

• Tonsil stones: Tonsil stones develop when food and bacteria get trapped and harden in the crevices surrounding the tonsils, resulting in little white spots at the back of your tonsils and, sometimes, a foul odor. •Mouth, nose and throat infections:

Postnasal drip, which can be caused by a cold or sinusitis, is a sign that bad breath may be close behind. e bacteria from these infections feed on mucus your body produces when it begins an immune response, leading to bad breath.

• Acid re ux: Su ering from heartburn or GERD (Gastroesophageal Re ux Disease) can go hand in hand with bad breath. When food doesn’t move out of the body e ectively, it can start to decay in the stomach and contribute to bad breath.

• Consuming certain food or beverages: Garlic and onions are delicious additions to dishes, but they are also rich in sulfur compounds. When cut, mashed or chewed, they release gasses which combine with bacteria in the mouth to form bad breath that can last hours a er a meal. •

Low-carb diets: Low-carb diets can result in bad breath from a release of chemicals which happens as the body burns fat.

• Tobacco use: Smokers’ breath is a direct result of tobacco use. Tobacco products leave their own odor, and smoking can lead to dry mouth and gum disease, which contribute to many issues including halitosis.

What You Can Do

Try some of these bad breath remedies for a fresher scent:

• Brush and oss twice a day.

• Use antibacterial toothpaste to keep bacteria and plaque at bay.

• Scrape your tongue with a tongue scraper or your toothbrush in the morning and at night.• Replace your toothbrush around once every two months.

• Drink plenty of uoridated tap water to avoid dehydration and dry mouth.

• Eliminate unwanted bacteria with a warm saltwater rinse.

• Visit your dentist for bi-annual checkups and cleanings.

• Chew fresh mint, cilantro or parsley.

• Avoid eating garlic and onions.

• Stop smoking.

If none of these remedies work for you, schedule a checkup with your dentist for potential next steps to get bad breath under control.

Learn More For more information on dental health, visit Delta Dental of Washington’s blog at deltadentalwa.com/blog.

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•

On Dec. 28, 1900, Mrs. Lulu Jenkins, of Chicago, was paid $4,000 in compensation for the lynching of her husband in Ripley County, Indiana.

Mr. Jenkins allegedly was involved in the theft of a horse and ended up the victim of a furious mob. Two other men were killed as well.

•

On Dec. 31, 1943, Henry John Deutschendorf, better known to us today as singer-songwriter, actor John Denver, was born. In a four-decade career before his untimely death in an airplane crash, he won worldwide affection and acclaim not just for his music but for his dedication to humanitarian and environmental causes.

• On Jan. 1, 1962, the U.S. Navy SEALs unit was created. Their elite members (only about 20% actually make it that far) are trained to operate in urban, desert and jungle locations and to withstand torture.

• On Dec. 26, 1966, the first Kwanzaa celebrations began in America, with the holiday continuing until Jan. 1. Created by activist, author and professor of Africana studies Dr. Maulana Karenga, the annual event, which affirms African family and social values, was originally intended to replace Christmas for Africans.

• On Dec. 30, 1984, speleologists (cave studiers/explorers) in the Mexican state of Oaxaca landed upon what was then thought to possibly be the world’s deepest cave after going through a maze of underground tunnels in the jungle.

• On Dec. 27, 1994, Rwanda’s president died in a plane crash and the African country was plunged into a genocidal blood bath in which the Hutu majority slaughtered the Tutsis, leaving half a million dead. A distraught missionary exclaimed of the carnage: “There are no devils left in hell. They are all in Rwanda.”

•

On Dec. 29, 2011, Russian authorities discovered a large amount of a rare caviar stored in, of all places, a morgue in St. Petersburg. A businessman and morgue attendant were arrested but claimed that the caviar was being kept for a personal New Year’s celebration. ©

BUSINESSSpotlight

to their congregation. They will see women serving alongside their male counterparts as ordained Deacons, Ministers, and Priests. They will see divorcees partaking in all the rituals and blessings that their married and single friends enjoy. This is a modern church.

BY JENNIFER COATES

For Christians around the world, Christmas is a time to celebrate of the birth of Jesus Christ. In the New Testament, Jesus Christ is called many names; He is known as the Great Physician, the Redeemer, the Deliverer, the Son of a Living God, and the Only Begotten Son. He truly is the Prince of Peace in a world so often plagued with strife, intolerance, bigotry, and hate. For Catholics and those of other Christian faiths, His birth marks the entry of redemption, forgiveness, deliverance, hope, peace, and joy into the human experience.

\Members of the congregation of The Chapel of St. Therese of Lisieux in West Warwick embrace all that Jesus’s life represents and all that these names suggest He is. Indeed, their philosophy is “founded on the life and teachings of Jesus Christ.” As believers, many of these congregants have felt rejected

and marginalized by the traditional Catholic Church and have found respite and common ground here in this closeknit extended church family.

The Chapel of St. Therese is an Inclusive Catholic Community that functions outside the jurisdiction of Rome. The Church’s ordained Pastor, Father Charles Vohs (affectionately known as Father Chuck) invites all to worship here alongside other faithful churchgoers. He and his fellow worshippers have created a space where those who have not felt welcome in the Catholic Church can come to feel accepted, supported, respected and safe.

\Members of The Chapel of St. Theresa come from all walks of life. Many come from the LBGTQ+ community. No one is excluded here. In this beautifully restored chapel, visitors will see a volunteer clergy who are allowed to marry and who receive no compensation for their service

\Father Chuck would say to those who feel left on the fringes of their faith ~ come, you are a Child of God and there is a seat at the table here for you. Come to be replenished, edified, and uplifted.

\For those interested in attending services during the holiday season, please mark your calendars for these special dates:

Christmas Liturgies: December 24th, Nativity of Our Lord, Saturday Vigil Mass at 5:00 p.m.

December 25th, Nativity of Our Lord, Sunday Mass at 10:30 a.m.

The Chapel of St. Therese of St. Lisieux is located at 1500 Main Street in West Warwick. Services are every Sunday at 10:30. Sunday rosaries are held every Sunday at 9:45am. If you would like to be included in their Zoombroadcasted Masses, email stocc1500@gmail.com for participation. To learn more, visit their informative and constantly updated website at www.go1500. org.

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(NAPSI)—As you prepare for the busy holiday travel season, you should be aware of an urgent stopdrive warning issued to owners and custodians of certain older model Dodge and Chrysler vehicles who have not replaced their recalled driver-side Takata air bags.

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US LLC has distributed notices to owners and custodians of these vehicles to immediately stop driving them.

If you are unsure if your vehicle falls under this recall, you can check by visiting www.mopar.com/ recalls, www.checktoprotect.org or www.nhtsa. gov/recalls and entering your Vehicle Identi cation Number (VIN). e 17-character VIN is usually located on the driver’s side dashboard near the windshield and is also often on insurance and registration documents.

If your vehicle is a ected by this stop-drive order, you should call 833585-0144 to discuss the best options for your free repair. FCA US LLC will help arrange for your car to be transported to your authorized dealership or schedule a mobile repair unit to come to your home to replace the recalled air bag. Air bag recall repairs can take as little as one hour and dealers make the process as easy as possible for drivers.

is issue requires immediate attention because the longer these particular vehicles remain unrepaired, the greater the risk of an air bag rupture which can cause serious injury or death in the event of a crash where the air bag deploys.

Keep yourself and your family safe this holiday season and check your vehicle for recalls.

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Owning a home is a dream shared by millions of people. Investing in property that can be owned within 15 to 30 years of closing on the home makes more nancial sense to many than continuing to rent and having little to show for it over time.

e rst step to take when planning to enter the real estate market is to ensure that your nances are in order. Various factors will in uence individuals’ ability to secure a mortgage, and these are some ways to make yourself more attractive to prospective lenders.

• Check your credit report. Lenders will check your credit report before deciding if you are a risk or a safe bet for a mortgage. So it makes sense to check your credit report prior to speaking with a lender. e Federal Trade Commission says everyone can get one free credit report a year from each of the three credit reporting bureaus. If you split it up, you can get a credit report every four months so you are aware of anything that may adverse-

ly a ect your ability to get a mortgage loan. A credit (FICO) score that’s too low may disqualify you from a mortgage. Each lender sets its own thresholds when they price and approve loans, but the higher your credit score, the better.

• Improve credit standing. One way to improve your status in the eyes of lenders is to pay down credit card balances to reduce your credit utilization ratio. A high utilization occurs when there is a high balance in relation to the credit limit, says Business Insider. Also, it may be wise to avoid any credit inquiries through new credit card applications for several months before applying for a loan, as these inquiries can a ect your score.

• Be realistic about what you can a ord. Do your homework and determine your target interest rate and monthly payment as well as what down payment you can a ord. It will help you research potential lenders and provide an idea of what may be o ered to you.

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• Pay bills on time. Paying bills promptly not only helps you avoid late fees, but also positively a ects your credit.

e nancial resource e Mortgage Reports urges diligence when paying rent, as late rent payments can bar you from getting a mortgage.

Lenders look at rent history as the biggest indicator of whether you’ll make mortgage payments on time.

ese are some of the ways to make a prospective home

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buyer look better in the eyes of mortgage lenders. Individuals can speak with nancial professionals about what else they can do to improve the possibility of securing mortgages at the best rates possible.

Elaine Eccleston Broker/Owner

by Dr. Whitney Miller, DVM, MBA, DACVPM

(NAPSI)—Most pet parents agree: their animals are part of what makes the holiday season so magical. While it’s an excellent opportunity to integrate furry family members into all the special

holiday traditions and make memories together, there are a few things you should keep in mind to keep your pet safe and healthy throughout the festivities:

• Opt for pet-friendly decorations: Many favorite holiday decorations need to be kept out of pets’ reach. Mistletoe, pine needles, ivy garland, holly, lilies and poinsettias can be toxic to pets when consumed. is is why I recommend arti cial Christmas trees to those with particularly curious pets that like to chew on plants. If you don’t choose an arti cial tree, it’s important to note that some water additives for real trees can be toxic, so you should make sure your pet can’t access this water source. When decorating your tree, it’s best to avoid tinsel and breakable ornaments to prevent potential hazards, and you should always secure your tree to prevent a climbing cat from tipping it over.

• Keep pets warm and dry: As the weather gets colder, pets may need a few extra layers to stay comfortable and safe while outdoors. Booties can help prevent a pup’s paws from getting ice in them and o er protection from salt-treated walkways. At home, use pet-safe ice melt rather than salt, which can be irritating to pets’

paws, mouths and stomachs. You can keep them feeling warm and looking stylish on winter adventures with sweaters and jackets such as the Reddy Black Pu er and the Reddy Colorblock Dog Sweater. A cozy handwarmer lead will help keep you warm as well while you’re out and about. When you return home, always dry o their coats and paws to remove debris and ice clumps in fur and between paw pads.

• Choose and wrap gi s wisely: If you’re one of the nearly 80% of pet parents who, according to the 2022 Petco consumer survey of 1,000 U.S. dog and cat parents, plan to include pets in holiday gi ing, make sure pets only have access to and open presents while supervised so they don’t ingest any paper or tape. I recommend sticking to wrapping paper for pet gi s, as ribbons, bows and accessories can be dangerous when ingested. Whether you’re buying advent calendars, apparel or toys for your pet, Petco’s holiday stockings o er an easy and pet-safe “wrapping” option that you can use year a er year.

• Be aware of toxic holiday foods: Common holiday foods such as chocolate, turkey skin and bones, ham, grapes and raisins, garlic, ca eine, alcohol, onions,

certain spices and sweets, especially any containing xylitol, should be avoided. For festive pet-safe foods, Petco has a variety of sweet and savory dog treats just for the holidays. If you think your pet has accidentally ingested a toxic food or other material, contact your veterinarian or the Pet Poison Helpline immediately.

• Prioritize pet health and wellness: Involving pets in holiday traditions can mean taking them along for a road trip, introducing them to new people or staying in unfamiliar environments—all things that can cause anxiety in pets. It’s important to keep your pet’s mental health top of mind during the holiday season and year-round. When possible, pets should be introduced to new people and pets in a neutral environment, individually and at their own pace. For pets that experience anxiety in the car, practicing with short drives or sitting in the car while parked, followed by treats and positive reinforcement, can help the adjustment and prepare them for a long ride. Calming products can help mitigate anxiety in pets, and you can also consult your veterinarian for anxiety or motion sickness treatments to help make travel easier. Training in advance of any holiday plans is also a good idea, and Petco o ers both in-person and online training options at stores.petco. com/training.

Learn More

For additional tips on how to safely celebrate the holidays with your pets, visit petco.com/holiday and a Petco pet care center.

• Dr. Miller is the chief veterinarian

She received her DVM and MBA degrees from Colorado State University and has been board certi ed in Preventive Medicine since 2018.

at Petco, e Health + Wellness Co. and member of the Petco Pet Wellness Council.

e winter solstice occurs each year during the month of December in the northern hemisphere. In 2022, the winter solstice will take place on December 21 at 4:48 p.m. EST.

Solstices are signi cant events that occur twice per year. One occurs in the winter and one in the summer. e winter solstice also is known as the rst day of winter and occurs when the Earth’s pole reaches its maximum tilt away from the sun. During the winter solstice, people will experience the shortest period of daylight and the longest period of nighttime of the year. Here are 14 fascinating facts about the winter solstice.

1. Depending on the hemisphere, the north or south pole will experience continuous darkness or twilight around its winter solstice.

2. e winter solstice sometimes is referred to by the term midwinter.

3. Even though the solstice is marked by a whole day on the calendar, it actually is just the brief moment of time when the sun is exactly over the Tropic of Capricorn.

4. e word “solstice” can be translated from Latin and means “sun stand still.”

5. e Tropic of Capricorn is located at 23.5 degrees south of the equator.

6. Tourists ock to Stonehenge to track the movement of the sun. e stones will frame the sunset on the

winter solstice and the sunrise on the summer solstice.

7. Ancient cultures viewed the winter solstice as a time of death and rebirth.

8. Important events in history have taken place on winter solstices. e Apollo 8 spacecra launched on the solstice in 1968. Pilgrims also arrived at Plymouth on the winter solstice in 1620.

9. Each planet in the Earth’s solar system has its own solstices and equinoxes.

10. e southern hemisphere experiences the winter solstice in June each year.

11. A full moon on a solstice is even more rare than a blue moon. e last full moon to occur on the winter solstice was in 2010 and the next one won’t happen until 2094.

12. Earth is closer to the sun around the winter solstice in December. However, the northern hemisphere receives less sunlight and has cooler temperatures because it is tilted away from the sun during winter.

13. Even though the winter solstice features the shortest amount of daylight of any day during the year, it does not have the earliest sunset. at takes place roughly two weeks prior. In 2021 in New York, the winter solstice took place on December 21, but the earliest sunset occurred on December 7 at 4:28 p.m.

14. Meteorological winter begins on December 1 rather than December 21.

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• B.G. in Minnesota writes: “If you want to freshen up drawers with sheets, pillowcases or in your luggage, just place a dryer sheet inside. They really do leave a nice scent, and they are also great for dusting jobs!”

• To control the level of garlic in a recipe, add it at the beginning for a lighter taste and at the end for a stronger taste. To get garlic out of the clove quickly instead of tedious peeling, just smash it and squeeze it out.

• The best cure for a foggy windshield is a chalkboard eraser. You can purchase them at office supply stores. They can be stored easily in your glove box. No window cleaner required for a quick clear windshield, and you can see well after. A clean windshield is a safety issue! — M.T. in South Carolina

• Fill measuring cups with hot water and empty quickly before measuring sticky substances like honey or peanut butter. It will slide out much easier.

• Banana trick: For faster ripening, leave bunches together and store in a bag. For slower ripening, separate the bananas. They will ripen faster if stored near apples or citrus fruit. Also, remember that just because the outside is getting brown spots, the inside isn’t necessarily going soft.

• Warm up refrigerated baked goods in the microwave, but add a mug of water. It will keep the moisture in the bread. If your bread loaf is going stale, wrap it in foil and pop it in the oven for about 10 minutes at 300 F. It will freshen the bread!

Send your tips to Now Here’s a Tip, 628 Virginia Drive, Orlando, FL 32803.

© 2022 King Features Synd., Inc.

Decorating the interior and exterior of a home is a beloved holiday season tradition in millions of households. Such decor makes it easy to dive into the festive nature of the season.

Many people could not imagine a holiday season without decorating their homes, and it’s vital that celebrants do so safely. Fire safety is especially important during a time of year when string lights and potentially dried out trees feature so prominently. ese re safety tips can ensure this holiday season is safe.

• Buy the safest lights. It might be tempting to buy the most inexpensive lights, especially given all the extra costs already associated with the holiday season. However, safety should be the utmost priority when buying new lights. Testing laboratories such as CSA, Intertek and UL certify products to ensure they’re safe for use. Products that aren’t certi ed should be avoided.

• Use lights and cords where they’re intended to be used. e packaging on lights will indicate if the product is intended to be used indoors or outdoors. It’s vital that individuals decorating their homes with lights pay attention to these labels. Never decorate the exterior of a home with interior lights, and vice versa. Extension cords made for indoors also should not be used outdoors and vice versa.

• Be especially careful with candles. Candles should only be burned when adults are in the room and should always be extinguished before leaving the room or going to bed. When burning candles, place them on heat-resistant surfaces that are beyond the reach of curious kids and pets. Never place candles within arm’s length of Christmas trees or houseplants, including poinsettias.

• Ask an electrician to inspect your exterior outlets and circuits. Ground fault circuit interruptor (GFCI) outlets are designed to prevent electric shocks and reduce the risk of electrical res. Most areas now require new homes be built exclusively with GFCIs, which are recognizable because they feature two buttons between the outlets. But older homes may not be equipped with GFCIs, particularly with exterior outlets. GFCI installation is not an especially expensive job, so homeowners should ask an electrician to inspect their interior and exterior outlets and replace non-GFCIs with GFCIs.

• Do not pinch light cords. Stringing lights can be a hassle, but cords should never be pinched in doors or windows or beneath interior and exterior furniture. Doing so increases the risk of damage to the cord, which in turn increases the likelihood of re.

• Avoid overloading circuits. Overloaded circuits pose a signi cant re hazard. When plugging in lights, choose outlets that aren’t already occupied by devices and other electronics. If need be, unplug appliances like televisions and devices while lights are on and plugged in.

When decorating this holiday season, celebrants are urged to do everything they can to reduce the risk of re in their homes.

Christmas Eve is viewed di erently by di erent people, even those who live under the same Santa-ready roof. Adults may see Christmas Eve as crunch time when they must prepare food for the next day or set up presents for their children to open in the morning. Children, on the other hand, are focused on Santa’s visit and little else.

Parents naturally want to make Christmastime as special as possible for their children, and that may involve ensuring that Christmas Eve is just as memorable as Christmas Day. e following are some ways to impart more magic into Christmas Eve celebrations.

Attend Mass at midnight

Practicing Christians celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ on Christmas. On Christmas Eve, churches o en hold celebrations that may include late-evening or midnight masses that celebrate the birth of Christ when the calendar switches over to December 25. While it does make for a late night, it can be thought-provoking for kids and a unique experience unlike any other.

Bake fresh cookies

Children like to leave out a plate of cookies and a glass of milk for Santa. at makes Christmas Eve a perfect time to whip up a fresh batch of cookies. Explore di erent recipes to come

up with a unique o ering each year.

Read a Christmas story

Watching television or looking at a tablet or mobile phone before bed can be too stimulating when it’s time for children to wind down for bed. Choose a holiday tale or tales that can be read as a Christmas Eve bedtime story. Reciting the poem “A Visit from St. Nicholas (‘Twas the Night Before Christmas)” is a great way to set the Christmas Eve mood.

Make a batch of ‘reindeer dust’ Why should Santa’s reindeer be le out when it comes to receiving treats? Reindeer dust, made from a combination of oatmeal, rice cereal, dried fruits, and glitter (if desired), is purported to attract Santa’s reindeer and provide them a nibble at the same time. Plus, it’s generally safe for other animals in the yard to eat.

Go caroling

Caroling may not be the norm, but some families may want to revive it. Close-knit communities can organize family-centric caroling opportunities and roam the cul-de-sacs and other pedestrian-friendly areas singing popular songs.

Christmas Eve is a great time to embrace various traditions that help to make the season even more special.

e kitchen may be the heart of a home, but when it comes to entertaining, a dining room — if one is present in a house — tends to be the prime gathering spot for meals.

Dining rooms may not be top on the list of spaces to renovate, as they tend to be used infrequently. But a dining room makeover may still be a worthy endeavor. Here are some simple ways to make the dining room more elegant and functional.

• Clear out the clutter. e rst step toward improving a dining room eating area is to remove any extraneous items from the space. If the dining room table is not used very o en, it likely has become a catch-all for other items, such as bills, newspapers or kids’ homework. Rather than using the dining space as a makeshi o ce or homework station, invest in a rolling cart to store those papers and other items. Simply roll it into a closet or another room when it’s time to host a party.

• Hang a statement light. Few decorative items add as much drama and ambiance to a dining space as a new overhead light. People hear chandelier and think a bejeweled or crystal design. But various chandelier styles can t the aesthetic of a home. e light will

be a focal point and instantly make the dining area more elegant. Install the light on a dimmer to adjust the illumination as needed to set the mood.

• Invest in new linens. Purchase coordinating table linens that will be used for special occasions. A decorative table cloth or table runner coupled with cloth napkins and placemats helps to set the scene of the dinner party.

• Add a piece of artwork. Many modern homeowners have eschewed the China cabinet that once was standard in dining rooms. Rather than a bulky piece of furniture, a large piece of statement-making artwork or framed photos over a more minimalistic bu et table or small service bar is preferable. Choose artwork that complements the colors in the space.

• Include a centerpiece. Centerpieces add sophistication to the table and tie into the event. Floral arrangements, a bowl or basket of fruit, pine cones or greens from outdoors, or collectibles like shells in a tall canister can serve as centerpieces.

ere are many simple ways to dress up dining spaces and make them more elegant.

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Home improvement projects enable homeowners to transform their homes into their ideal living spaces. According to iProperty Management, most homeowners in the United States spent between $5,000 and $10,000 improving their homes in 2018. And it doesn’t stop there, as home improvement sales are projected to reach $465 billion in 2022.

Various renovation projects are best le to the professionals. However, many homeowners are eager to get their own hands dirty with various projects, large and small. Having the right tools and gear on hand can make projects go all the more smoothly. Holiday shoppers can consider these ideas as they seek to ensure DIYers have all they need to get the job done.

• Painting time-savers: Painting requires some basic essentials, from paint trays to rollers to brushes. Projects can be made more e cient with innovative products that help save time and reduce mess. One such item is a paint brush cover, which snaps over wet paintbrushes between coats so they won’t dry out or require rinsing. Brushes that cut in easily and others with exible handles for getting in tight places also make painting projects that much easier.

• Cordless drill: A mechanical drill makes easy work of assembly projects and general renovations that require screws as fasteners. A cordless rechargeable drill will be easy to maneuver when handling projects away from outlets. Going cord-free also reduces the risk of trips and falls on errant cords.

• Lawn care subscription service: Home improvements extend to the exterior. In addition to mowers, trimmers and garden shears, DIYers may bene t from subscription products that improve on property care. ese formulations are customized to the speci c needs of homeowners’ lawn or landscaping greenery and are shipped right to their door.

• Rotary tool kit: is is one of the most versatile tools homeowners can have on hand. A rotary tool can engrave, grind, sharpen, polish, cut, carve, and more depending on the accessory attachment.

• Multi-use ladder: A ladder is a necessity for various projects inside and outside the home. One that can transform into an A-frame, sca old system, staircase ladder and other con gurations helps ensure maximum safe reach for the job at hand.

• Composter: Whether you use an indoor kitchen composter or one designed for outdoor use, being able to generate one’s own compost is great for avid gardeners. Compost, o en called “black gold,” is made from kitchen scraps, leaves and other items that break down into a rich fertilizer.

• Tool box/tool organizer: Tool storage is a market all its own. It runs the gamut from rolling metal storage containers to plastic or metal boxes to canvas bags to plastic molded curated kits. Tool organizer kits also come at various price points, so it’s easy for shoppers to choose one that ts their budgets.

• Organizing units: Organizing units are available in prefabricated kits that are easily assembled when needed, as well as custom-made products that are installed by a professional. ey may be an option for a handy person looking to organize tools and other items for home repairs.

Do-it-yourselfers can be even more handy with tools geared toward their interests and repair needs.

Cold weather contributes to many di erent conditions that can a ect homes.When winds are blowing ercely, homeowners may soon discover de cits in insulation or in caulking around windows and doors. Icy conditions can cause walkways and stairs to become slick.

One winter condition can cause extensive headaches and damage and could be a mystery to many homeowners. Ice dams occur when warm air in the attic heats up the roof and melts accumulated snow. Water from this melt runs down the roof and refreezes when it reaches the colder roof edge. A mound of ice forms at the lower edge of the roo ine as a result.

Ice dams may help create a picturesque winter vista, with icicles hanging and glinting in the sunlight, but they can cause signi cant damage. According to experts, ice dams can weigh hundreds of pounds if they get large enough, potentially a ecting the structural integrity of roof eaves. In addition, ice dams can cause melted runo to back up under roof shingles. is water can eventually make its way inside, ruining ceilings and walls. e roof, gutters, insulation, interior drywall, and other home surfaces can be damaged if ice dams are le unchecked.

e following are some conditions that make a home vulnerable to ice dam formation:

1. e presence of snow on the roof.

2. An average outdoor temperature that is 32 F or lower.

3. A roof surface temperature above 32 F at its higher points and below 32 F at the lower end.

4. Indoor heat making its way to the underside of the roof.

Homeowners should take a few steps to address ice dams. e rst is preventing future ice dams from forming. According to First American Roo ng and Siding, LLC, improving insulation in the ceiling below the attic and addressing any ine ciencies in the home is necessary. A professional can do a blower door test, which works by depressurizing the home and using a thermal camera to nd areas where insulation is poor. In addition, adequate ventilation under the roof deck is necessary so cold air can circulate and prevent the attic from getting so warm that it will melt the snow on the roof.

e next step is to remove excess snow from the roof with a roof rake and keeping gutters clear. If ice dams have already formed, hire a professional to remove them, as it can be dangerous to do it oneself.

Snow-covered roofs and landscapes can be beautiful, but also dangerous if conditions that cause ice dams to form are not addressed.

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EVERY WEEK “The Reminder” brings you important money saving values from local merchants and service providers. Plus news of what’s going on around town... from Church Bazaars to meetings to helpful hints from experts. “The Reminder”, your local free community paper!

1. Black Panther: Wakanda Forever (PG-13) Letitia Wright, Lupita Nyong’o

Violent Night (R) David Harbour, John Leguizamo 3. Strange World (PG) Jake Gyllenhaal, Gabrielle Union 4. The Menu (R) Ralph Fiennes, Anya Taylor-Joy 5. Devotion (PG-13) Jonathan Majors, Glen Powell 6. I Heard the Bells (NR) Stephen Atherholt, Jonathan Blair 7. Black Adam (PG-13) Dwayne Johnson, Aldis Hodge 8. The Fabelmans (PG-13) Michelle Williams, Gabriel LaBelle 9. Bones and All (R) Timothee Chalamet, Taylor Russell 10. Ticket to Paradise (PG-13) George Clooney, Julia Roberts

Challah is a special bread within Jewish households that is cooked to herald the Sabbath and celebrate various holidays. Jewish scholars indicate that the history of challah can be traced to the scripture story of manna, or bread, that God sent to the Israelites in the wilderness. Also, during the days of the Temple in Jerusalem, Jews presented dough as an o ering to priests, who used it to bake their own bread.

Challah can be sweet or savory, and leovers can make for a delicious French toast base for breakfasts and brunches. Anyone can learn how to make challah for their holiday celebrations. Traditional challah is made with eggs and a shiny egg wash, but this plant-based version uses potato water starch in the recipe. Bake up a loaf or two with this recipe, courtesy of “Plant-Based Gourmet: Vegan Cuisine for the Home Chef” (Apollo Publishers) by chef Suzi Gerber.

Challah Makes 2 loaves

3 Yukon Gold potatoes or other butter potatoes (about 11⁄2 pounds), peeled and cubed

1⁄3 cup sa ower oil or avocado oil

1⁄3 cup sugar

5 cups all-purpose our or gluten-free all-purpose our

1 tablespoon cornstarch

1 teaspoon kala namak (Indian black salt)

1 teaspoon turmeric powder

1 teaspoon sea salt

1 packet active instant dry yeast (approximately 1⁄4 ounce)

1⁄2 cup Homemade Butter (see below), so ened and cut into cubes

1⁄3 cup oat milk

1. To make “potato water,” combine the potatoes with 31⁄2 cups cold water in a large pot, bring to a boil, and keep at a boil for 20 minutes, uncovered. e liquid level should reduce to about 2 cups.

2. Drain the potatoes, and reserve the liquid.

3. Combine 11⁄2 cups of the potato water with the sa ower oil and sugar in a mixing bowl or a large measuring cup with a pour spout (reserve the remaining potato water). Whisk until sugar is completely dissolved.

4. Combine the our, cornstarch, kala namak, turmeric, and sea salt in a stand mixer and whisk to combine. Make sure there are no salt clusters for the yeast to come in contact with, then slowly add the yeast.

5. Change the mixer attachment to a dough hook, and slowly add the potato-water mixture to the dry ingredients while mixing. is slow pour should take about a minute.

6. Add in the so ened butter, 1 cube at a time, until fully incorporated.

7. Knead the dough hook on medium-high (number 6 on standard home machines) for 10 minutes, keeping an eye on the elasticity of the dough. Pinch and pull the dough to check its elasticity: When ready, it should stretch like a rubber band and reach about 10

inches without breaking.

8. Let the dough rise, covered, for 45 minutes at room temperature. It should double in size.

9. Portion the dough into 2 equal blocks. Divide each block into thirds to form a traditional straight braid, or into 4 sections to form a round braid. Roll the pieces into equal-sized ribbons that are at least 18 inches long. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and braid the ribbons directly on the parchment, tucking the ends under and pinching them together.

10. Cover again and let rise a second time, for 30 to 45 minutes. e dough should dramatically increase in size, eliminating any gaps in the braid.

11. Preheat the oven to 375 F.

12. While the bread rises, combine the remaining potato water (about 1⁄2 cup) with the cornstarch in a small saucepan. Bring to a simmer, whisk o en until a thick gel forms, and then remove from the heat.

13. Slowly add the oat milk to the gel, whisking until the gel is thin enough to paint.

14. Brush a generous and even amount of the starch-and-oat-milk wash onto the risen bread right before placing in the oven.

15. Bake for 40 to 45 minutes, rotating once halfway through. Remove once the crust is smooth and dark and the bottom is strong. When you thump the bottom with your nger, it should sound hollow. e internal temperature should be 190 to 200 F.

16. Paint the loaves again with more of the wash and let cool. Store in zip-top bags. Keep for 3 to 5 days (if they last you that long!) at room temperature, or up to 6 months if frozen.

17. If you over-proof or let the nished loaves sit out uncovered or past 5 days and they get hard, it’s French toast time.

Homemade Butter

Makes approximately 21⁄2 cups

1 cup hempseed milk or full-fat canned coconut milk

1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar

1 teaspoon salt

13⁄4 cups melted re ned coconut oil (the kind that is solid at room temperature)

3 tablespoons sa ower oil, avocado oil, or sun ower oil

1 tablespoon sun ower lecithin powder or 11⁄2 teaspoons liquid lecithin

1⁄2 teaspoon arrowroot powder

1. Combine the hempseed milk, apple cider vinegar, and salt and stir. Allow to curdle for 5 to 10 minutes.

2. In a blender or food processor, combine the milk mixture with the remaining ingredients and blend for 2 minutes on high.

3. Pour the mixture into a stick mold or any shape tub and freeze for at least 3 hours.

4. Keeps for up to 1 month in the fridge or up to 6 months in the freezer.

Tip: Use the boiled potatoes from making the potato water and turn into mashed potatoes or potato pancakes.

As we wind down 2022, I thought we’d take a look back at what we’ve discussed in real estate throughout the year.

We started out with record low inventory across the residential categories, and threatening increases to interest rates for buyers. We talked about strategies for buyers in a very competitive environment and educated sellers navigating their home sales.

Another topic we reviewed was how to plan and qualify for a mortgage and the various types of financing opportunities, especially with the changing rate dynamics this year.

Home maintenance and safety is always a beneficial conversation as a homeowner, so we touched on those topics as well.

Technology continues to provide great conveniences in searching for a home to purchase, building homes through 3D technology, as well as various products throughout the home, as we’ve discussed. It will be interesting to see and learn what other new developments will come available as we progress.

And here we are in December already. The year certainly flew by quickly.

Below is a brief report provided by RI Realtors to

sum up where we are, and what to expect in 2023. I want to thank you all for a great 2022 and wish you a Happy Healthy and Prosperous New Year ahead!!

Enjoy your Holidays!! Donna

RI REALTORS

Rhode Island’s home sale trends remain steady. At $405,000 the median sales price of single-family homes rose 7.3%. The ratio of list price to sales price remained stable at 100%.

The number of single-family homes on the market

fell 7.9% year-over-year, not surprising given rising interest rates and fewer options available for sellers to move to.

Sales activity dropped 20.1% from the prior year while pending sales – those sales under contract but not through the closing process dropped 40.9% from the previous year. Pending sales are the leading indicator of sales activity in the near future.

“We’re seeing an interesting real estate market right now. On the one hand, sales activity has fallen to about the same level as we saw during the economic shutdown of 2020. On the other hand, even with sales dropping, inventory is so tight that prices aren’t plummeting. The good news is that inflation started to come down and if that continues, we should see a drop in rates. That will jump start the market again but even with that, we still have a supply problem to correct before we will see a balanced market again,” said Bryant Da Cruz, President of Rhode Island Association of Realtors.

DeLauro

Donna DeLauro Senior Real Estate Specialist RE/MAX Real Estate Center Founder of Mature Matters

Cocktail parties feature prominently on social schedules each holiday season. Such get-togethers are convenient because the foods and beverages served are designed to be small and portable. at can save any holiday host time in the kitchen.

ere may be plenty of prepared foods in the grocer’s freezer that can be served for gatherings, but the taste of easy, homemade o erings can mingle with the time-savers when guests arrive. “Bacon-Wrapped Goat Cheese Stu ed Dates” are an easily prepared appetizer that pairs sweet with savory. Even better, these morsels are delicious served warm out of the oven or can be eaten at room temperature when late-arriving guests stroll in.

Wrap up cocktail party spreads with this recipe, courtesy of “Spectacular Spreads: 50 Amazing Food Spreads for Any Occasion”

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Bacon-Wrapped

Cheese Stu ed Dates Makes 16

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Preheat the oven to 350 F. Lightly grease a rimmed baking sheet with nonstick cooking spray. Set aside.

If your dates are not already pitted, slice the dates lengthwise on one side, but not all the way through, to create an opening. Remove the pit.

Using a teaspoon measure, ll the cavity of each date with a heaping teaspoon of the goat cheese and then gently press the sides together to close a bit.

Wrap each date with a half slice of bacon and secure with a toothpick. Arrange the bacon-wrapped dates on the prepared baking sheet.

Bake for 15 to 20 minutes, turning the dates halfway through so the bacon is evenly cooked. Transfer the bacon-wrapped dates to a serving platter and drizzle with the hot honey. Garnish with the parsley. Serve warm or at room temperature.

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(Rock Point) by Meagan Brown.

Goat

16 pitted dates

8thin slices bacon, halved 4ounces creamy goat cheese Toothpicks Hot honey, for garnishing Chopped fresh parsley, for garnishing

ADDICTION SCREENINGS

If you or a loved one is struggling with substance abuse, take the first step towards overcoming addiction. Call today for free screenings or referrals. 1-800-431-1754

COVENTRY LIBRARY NEW YEAR’S CHILDREN’S DROP-IN CRAFT

We will be counting down to 2023 at the library! On December 29 & 30, families can drop-in the Childrenís Room to make a New Yearís countdown craft. Please call Youth Services at 822-9102 with any questions.

WEST WARWICK PUBLIC SCHOOLS MENTORS NEEDED

West Warwick Public Schools is in need of in person volunteer mentors for students in Grades K-12. The time commitment is 1 hour per week. Anybody who is interested in volunteering can call or email me, Dana Papitto, Mentor Coordinator, at: (401) 825-6530 or dpapitto@ww-ps.com

COVENTRY PUBLIC LIBRARY NEW CHAT FEATURE!

At home in your slippers, but need to ask us a question? Try our new chat service! Click on the chat bubble logo on the bottom right corner of our website and ask away. If the library isn’t open, it will let you email us. Chat hours are: Monday through Wednesday 9AM-7:30PM, Thursday and Friday 9AM4:30PM, and Saturday 9AM-4:30PM (9AM-12:30PM during Summer Hours).

WEST WARWICK FOOD CUPBOARD

The West Warwick Assistance Agency operates a food cupboard at 1293 Main Street serving all West Warwick residents living at or below three times the federal poverty level. We are open Monday, Wednesday, and Friday from 10AM-2PM, unless there is a town-wide parking ban in effect. We offer standard amounts of core groceries based on household size as well as self serve selections of produce, bread and assorted other noncore grocery items we have on hand. If you have any questions, feel free to call us at 828-0310, and no appointment is necessary to visit our facility.

SIGN UP FOR IMPORTANT TOWN INFORMATION ALERTS

CodeRed is a very helpful service in which you can receive important town information in a timely manner. Alerts include important town matters, COVID-19 vaccinations, weather emergencies, sex offender notifications, etc. To sign up for automated calls and/or texts on your cell phone or landline, register your phone numbers at the town’s website, www. coventryri.org or through the Coventry Police Dept. website, www.coventrypd.org

St. Jude’s Novena

May the sacred heart of Jesus be adored, glorified, loved and preserved, throughout the world now and forever.

Sacred Heart of Jesus, pray for us. St. Jude, worker of miracles, pray for us. St. Jude, help of the helpless, pray for us.

Say this prayer 9 times a day and by the 8th day your prayer will be answered. It has never been known to fail. Publication must be promised. Thank you St. Jude for answering my prayers. M.L.G.

How to Make the Best Latkes for Hanukkah

Beginning at sunset Sunday, Dec. 18, the Festival of Lights begins.

The eight-day Jewish Festival of Lights, also known as Hanukkah, is celebrated by lighting the menorah, playing the game of dreidel and eating special holiday foods.

Hanukkah celebrates the rededication of the Temple in Jerusalem after it was defiled by the Seleucids in 164 B.C. During the rededication, a miracle happened. A small quantity of oil that was sufficient only for one day continued to burn for eight days. Therefore, Hanukkah is one of the happiest Jewish holidays of the year. The roots of this holiday include liberation from oppression, religious freedom, divine miracles, and courage.

Of all the traditional foods eaten on Hanukkah, the potato latke is always a favorite. This is a potato pancake fried in oil, which references the miracle of the oil in the temple.

Even if you don’t celebrate Hanukkah, you’ll love having this delicious and inexpensive recipe in your rotation. Latkes are crispy on the outside, light, soft and tender on the inside, and full of flavor.

There are lots of ways to make latkes, and each family loves the ones their “bubbe” makes. I don’t want to step on any bubbe’s toes, but this

recipe is a classic. Traditional toppings are applesauce and sour cream, but you can top them with many other delectable goodies. To stay somewhat traditional, try smoked salmon with sour cream and chives, or pastrami with brown mustard.

CLASSIC POTATO LATKES

Yield: about 20 latkes

Total Time: 1 hour

5 large russet potatoes, peeled 1 large onion

1/3 cup matzah meal, cracker meal or dry breadcrumbs

1 teaspoon kosher salt

Freshly ground black pepper

2 eggs 1 cup vegetable oil + more as needed

to crispy latkes. Place the mixture into a large bowl. Add the matzah or breadcrumbs, salt and pepper, and distribute through the potato mixture. Add the eggs and mix well. After this is mixed, transfer the mixture to a colander and place it back in the bowl. This is to keep the mixture from sitting in liquid, making sure there are no soggy latkes at the end of cooking. Pour about 1/2 inch of the oil in a medium heavy-bottomed pan and place over medium-high heat. Once the oil is at 350 F (a drop of mixture placed in the pan should sizzle), drop heaping tablespoons of the mixture into the hot oil, flattening with a spatula and cooking in batches. When the edges of the latkes are brown and crispy, flip. Cook until the second side is golden brown. Transfer the latkes to a paper towel-lined plate to drain, and sprinkle with salt while still warm. Add oil as needed. Repeat, then eat!

Current trends show people adding all kinds of ingredients into the latke, like sweet potato, zucchini, cilantro, cheese, apple and such. Also, some air-fry them. Although we usually like to use less oil, the symbolism of the oil is really the point of latkes for Hanukkah. Variety is fun, but for Hanukkah, it’s best to be a purist.

In this holiday season, let’s say thanks a lot, for lots and lots of latkes.

***

Using a good old-fashioned box grater, grate the potatoes and onion together. The onion juice slows the potatoes from oxidizing and turning brown. You could use a food processor with a grating blade, but you won’t get that beautiful rustic look of hand grating.

Transfer the mixture to a clean dish towel and squeeze, then squeeze some more to wring out as much of the liquid as possible. This is the secret

Lifestyle expert Patti Diamond is the penny-pinching, party-planning, recipe developer and content creator of the website Divas On A Dime — Where Frugal, Meets Fabulous! Visit Patti at www.divasonadime.com and join the conversation on Facebook at DivasOnADimeDotCom. Email Patti at divapatti@divasonadime.com © 2022 King Features Synd., Inc.

VOLUNTEER TOUR GUIDES NEEDED

The Paine House, 7 Station Street in Coventry is looking for volunteer Tour Guides to share this unique historical site with the general public. Can you spare a few hours once or twice a month? All training and materials will be provided, no special skills required. This opportunity is suitable for High School students to adults. Training classes for the 2022 season will begin soon. If interested, call Bob at 439-7513 or email info@ westernrihistory.org

FREE NOTARY SERVICE AT COVENTRY LIBRARY

Free notary services are available at the Coventry Public Library. Proper governmental identification with a signature is required and all documents must be signed in the presence of the notary. Please call ahead to be sure the notary is available at 401-822-6200.

RI COMMUNITY FOOD BANK

If you are in need of food, you can call the RI Community Food Bank at 942-6325 or you can visit www.rifoodbank.org for a complete list of open pantries statewide.

PROJECT FRIENDS

Project Friends is a State of RI licensed community based day service program developed in 1992 for adults with developmental disabilities. Each individual has a plan that offers choices of activities which build independence, adult daily living skills, socialization, self-esteem and confidence. Participants are supported by case aides. If you would like more information about Project Friends, please feel free to call Marlena or Lisa at 822-9144.

COVENTRY RESOURCE & SENIOR CENTER OFFERS FREE NOTARY SERVICE

The Coventry Resource & Senior Center, 50 Wood Street, Coventry, offers free Notary Services to Coventry residents. Please call 822-9175 to ensure a Notary is available for you.

EXETER GRANGE “GO BANANAS CHALLENGE”

Exeter Grange is working on a new challenge. The Grange is participating in the ìGo Bananas Challengeî for Project Saving Species in conjunction with the Cincinnati Zoo. They are asking for donations of used and broken cell phones, smart phones, IPAD/IPODS, tablets and charging accessories. Many of these items contain metals and materials that need to be recycled and not tossed in the landfill. Eco-Call, a Louisville based company, will break down and recycle the items and has a no landfill policy. Donations can be left on the steps of Exeter Grange Hall, 469 Ten Rod Road (Rte. 102) in Exeter. If there are any questions or a donation is left, please feel free to call Amanda or Peggy at 401-397-8058 and leave a message.

COVENTRY PUBLIC LIBRARY PRESENTS...

Coventry Library will host a family magic show with one of New England’s funniest magicians, Tommy James on December 28 at 11AM. Along with a real live bunny, Tommy will present a rollercoaster ride of magic entertainment that will have children of all ages belly-laughing for the entire show. This program is for children ages 4-11. Registration is required and begins on December 7. Please call Youth Services at 822-9102 to register.

COVENTRY PUBLIC LIBRARY SERVICE

SPOTLIGHT: CAKE PANS

The Coventry Public Library has a collection of cake and cookie pans that are available to borrow! Bake cakes in fun shapes and borrow our decorating tools to make them look extra special! Cake pans check out for three weeks with no holds and 2 renewals. Cake pans are fine free!†For more information, visit the Circulation Desk or call 822-9100 and press 1.

MEDICAL EQUIPMENT

In need of medical equipment? The following locations are good resources: Robert J. Allen Masonic Medical Equipment Distribution Center, 116 Long Street in Warwick (across from St. Rose & Clement Church). Open Fridays from 9AM12PM, pre-owned equipment - loaned at no cost. 451-0184.

Ocean State Center for Independent Living, 1944 Warwick Avenue in Warwick. In need of wheelchairs, grab bars, walkers, transport chairs, toilets, wheelchair ramp, etc.? Call 738-1013, Ext. 13 or visit www.oscil.org Coventry-West Greenwich Lions, 821-7219 or 392-3063.

MARINE CORPS LEAGUE

The Marine Corps League will hold their meeting the 1st Thursday of each month at 7PM at VFW Post 9404, 29 South Main Street, Coventry. Members join in camaraderie and fellowship for the purpose of preserving traditions and interests of the United States Marine Corps.

WEST WARWICK PUBLIC LIBRARY HOMEBOUND OUTREACH SERVICES

The West Warwick Public Library offers free delivery of most Library materials to the homebound, free of charge. If you are either permanently or temporarily unable to come to the Library, and you are a resident of West Warwick, this program is for you. To sign up or for more information, contact Anne at 828-3750, Ext. 11 or email anne@wwlibrary.org

RICE CITY CHURCH HOLIDAY SERVICES

Rice City Church, the First Christian Church of Coventry, invites you to a Christmas Eve Candlelight Service on December 24 at 6PM. All are welcome. The Church is located at 63 Vaughn Hollow Road, Greene.

Celebrate the Festival of Lights with these traditional latkes.

www.JasonCoblentz.com

ey’re back! Family, friends and acquaintances are once again taking up residence on cots and fold-out sofas across the country as loved ones gather to celebrate the holiday season. at’s welcome news nearly three years a er a pandemic rst restricted such gatherings. But hosts must ask themselves: Am I ready to host house guests?

Travel is a big component of the holiday season. According to a 2021 survey by e Vacationer, a travel tip and vacation guide, nearly 63 percent of Americans age 18 or older planned to travel for at least one holiday in 2021, with most traveling in December. at marked a 37 percent increase in travel from a year prior. Holiday travel for 2022 may be even higher as families adapt to life during the pandemic.

As individuals get ready to host holiday guests, here are some strategies to maximize space and make guests feel comfortable.

• Discuss plans in advance. Every traveler is di erent. Some people thrive on making lists and following itineraries. Others

y by the seat of their pants. It’s reasonable to ask potential house guests how they envision their visit, including if they plan to stay long and if it will include sleeping over. is way you can make accommodations accordingly, particularly if guests request to borrow a vehicle or want to see the sights.

• Create some extra privacy. While some homes are equipped to handle guests comfortably, smaller homes may not be equipped with such luxuries. Folding screens can be used to create a barrier and add some privacy in open spaces where guests will be staying.

• Stash away travel samples. Travel-sized soaps, shampoos and lotions can make guests feel more welcome. Stock up at the grocery store or pharmacy and leave them in the room where guests will be staying.

• Stock up on new linens. Treat guests to fresh u y towels and new bed linens, especially if it’s been awhile since you have restocked these items.

• Ask about food preferences. Your guests may not want to munch on kale chips and tofu hot dogs apart from the holiday meal. Don’t push your food restrictions on others. Ask guests what they typically eat and then ll the pantry and refrigerator with some of the items they mention. When guests need snacks, they’ll have familiar foods on hand.

• Be mindful of bedtimes. Consider guests’ preferences about bedtimes. While you may be a night owl, some guests may hit the hay much earlier, particularly older relatives or those with young children. If need be, make an e ort to be quiet when kids or early birds are staying over.

Hosting for the holidays requires a little creativity and exibility. All that e ort is well worth it when loved ones have a good time while staying over.

2260 Flat River Road Coventry, RI 401-407-2121

Tavern Take-Out

Veteran Owned – Family Operated

Pizza ~ Wings ~ Daily Specials

NOW SERVING BREAKFAST

SATURDAYS 8 am – 1 pm & SUNDAYS 9 am – 1 pm

Open for Breakfast Christmas Eve and New Year’s Eve

Sunday FUNDAY – DROP-IN Pitch League 2 pm - 5 pm

$5 entry for each - Winner takes all

SAVE THE DATE: 1/15/2023 OPEN MIC w/ Gary 6 pm - 9 pm

Monday Night Football DROP-IN Darts 5 pm - 8 pm

$5 entry for each - Winner takes all

Buck a Wing Specials & Giveaways

Every Wednesday DJ Trivia (WIN PRIZES)

Every Thursday Sunset Karaoke w/ Laura Proulx Friday & Saturday ~ Live Entertainment or Open Jukebox Book your next special event: Anniversary, Birthday or Holiday party here. Taking Reservations now!

DISH TV: $64.99 for 190 channels + $14.95 High Speed Internet. Free installation, Smart HD DVR included, free voice remote. Some restrictions apply. Promo expires 1/21/23. 1-866-4791516.

ABOMINABLE

SNOWMAN: This lovable critter is available for all your holiday parties! Reasonable rates include karaoke machine. For information, write to: A. Snowman, c/o North Pole.

MEALSITE

All meals include milk, coffee or tea, bread/margarine

COVENTRY SENIOR CENTER 50 WOOD STREET, COVENTRY FOR RESERVATIONS CALL: 822-9180

DONATION $3.00

Wed. 12/21

LIBRA (September 23 to October 22) Like the sensible Libra you are, you no doubt already started your holiday shopping. But be careful to keep within your budget. Shop around for the best buys.

especially with teens, who like to feel grown up.

ARIES (March 21 to April 19) Your work on a recent job assignment is impressive and sure to be noticed. Meanwhile, expect to receive news about an upcoming holiday event you won’t want to miss.

ARIES (March 21 to April 19) Your work on a recent job assignment is impressive and sure to be noticed. Meanwhile, expect to receive news about an upcoming holiday event you won’t want to miss.

TAURUS (April 20 to May 20) Saving the world one person at a time is what you were born to do. So accept it when people ask you for help, especially during the holiday season.

TAURUS (April 20 to May 20) Saving the world one person at a time is what you were born to do. So accept it when people ask you for help, especially during the holiday season.

GEMINI (May 21 to June 20) Now that you’ve resolved all doubts about an important decision, you can surprise a lot of people by defending your stand with strong and well-reasoned arguments.

GEMINI (May 21 to June 20) Now that you’ve resolved all doubts about an important decision, you can surprise a lot of people by defending your stand with strong and well-reasoned arguments.

CANCER (June 21 to July 22) The holiday mood stirs your need to nurture everyone, from the family cat to great-grandma. But don’t overdo it, especially with teens, who like to feel grown up.

LEO (July 23 to August 22) Enjoy basking in the warm love of family and close friends this holiday season. But don’t fall into a prolonged catnap yet. ere’s still much to do before you can fully put up your paws and relax.

SCORPIO (October 23 to November 21) Love and friendship remain strong in your aspect over the next several days. This is a good time to develop new relationships and strengthen old ones.

VIRGO (August 23 to September 22) Avoid pushing others to work as hard as you do on a common project. Instead, encourage them to do their best, and they might well reward you with a pleasant surprise.

SAGITTARIUS (November 22 to December 21) A beloved family member has news that will brighten your holidays. Also expect to hear from friends who had long since moved out of your life.

cember 21) A beloved family member has news that will brighten your holidays. Also expect to hear from friends who had long since moved out of your life.

CAPRICORN (December 22 to January 19) Family and friends are in for a surprise when you accept the need to make a change without being talked into it. (Bet it surprised you, too, didn’t it?)

Thurs. 12/22

Fri. 12/23 Mon. 12/26

Tues. 12/27

Vegetable soup, stuffed cabbage with sauce, seasoned brown rice, mixed vegetables, pumpernickel bread, sliced peaches. Sandwich: Corned beef and Swiss on pumpernickel.

Beef barley soup, roasted Airline chicken, oven roasted potatoes, buttered carrots, wheat bread, coffee cake. Sandwich:Tuna on wheat.

Closed for Christmas Holiday!

White chowder, baked fish with crumb topping, butternut squash, green beans, rye bread, pudding. Sandwich: Chicken salad on rye.

Butternut squash soup, chicken Marsala, seasoned brown rice, broccoli cuts, multi-grain bread, diced pears. Sandwich: Honey ham and cheese on multi-grain.

W. WARWICK SENIOR CENTER 145 WASHINGTON ST., WEST WARWICK RESERVATIONS CALL: 822-4450

DONATION $3.00

LIBRA (September 23 to October 22) Like the sensible Libra you are, you no doubt already started your holiday shopping. But be careful to keep within your budget. Shop around for the best buys.

CAPRICORN (December 22 to January 19) Family and friends are in for a surprise when you accept the need to make a change without being talked into it. (Bet it surprised you, too, didn’t it?)

AQUARIUS (January 20 to February 18) Restoring an old friendship might not be as easy as you had hoped. You might want to explore the reasons for your former buddy’s reluctance to cooperate.

Wed. 12/21

Thurs. 12/22

Fri. 12/23

Mon. 12/26

Lentil soup, Shepherd’s pie, mashed potatoes, dessert. Option: Cobb salad.

Beef vegetable soup, seafood salad on pita, pasta salad, chips, dessert. Option: Chicken salad club.

Orange juice, cheese omelet, home fries, bacon, cornbread, dessert. Option: Garden salad with chicken.

Closed for Christmas Holiday!

LEO (July 23 to August 22) Enjoy basking in the warm love of family and close friends this holiday season. But don’t fall into a prolonged catnap yet. There’s still much to do before you can fully put up your paws and relax.

CANCER (June 21 to July 22) e holiday mood stirs your need to nurture everyone, from the family cat to great-grandma. But don’t overdo it,

VIRGO (August 23 to September 22) Avoid pushing others to work as hard as you do on a common project. Instead, encourage them to do their best, and they might well reward you with a pleasant surprise.

AQUARIUS (January 20 to February 18) Restoring an old friendship might not be as easy as you had hoped. You might want to explore the reasons for your former buddy’s reluctance to cooperate.

SCORPIO (October 23 to November 21) Love and friendship remain strong in your aspect over the next several days. is is a good time to develop new relationships and strengthen old ones.

PISCES (February 19 to March 20) Your party-going activities pick up as the holiday season takes o . Enjoy your plunge into the social swim as you make new friends and renew old friendships.

Tues. 12/27

Navy bean soup, sweet and sour chicken, brown rice pilaf, baby carrots, dessert. Option: Italian grinder.

PISCES (February 19 to March 20) Your party-going activities pick up as the holiday season takes off. Enjoy your plunge into the social swim as you make new friends and renew old friendships.

SAGITTARIUS (November 22 to De-

BORN THIS WEEK: You are caring and considerate — two wonderful attributes that endear you to people of all ages.

© 2022 King Features Synd., Inc.

BORN THIS WEEK: You are caring and considerate -- two wonderful attributes that endear you to people of all ages. (c) 2022 King Features Synd., Inc.

1. MOVIES: What was the name of the fictional kingdom in “Frozen”? 2. HISTORY: How many people died as a result of the Boston Massacre of 1770? 3. GENERAL KNOWLEDGE: What was the name of Scrooge’s business partner in “A Christmas Carol”? 4. TELEVISION: In what city is the long-running drama “Grey’s Anatomy” set? 5. GEOGRAPHY: Which two cities were the original endpoints of the Orient Express? 6. ANIMAL KINGDOM: How many legs does an ant have? 7. LITERATURE: What is the title of Toni Morrison’s first novel? 8. MATH: How many minutes are in a week? 9. BUSINESS SLOGANS: Which company’s slogan is, “Expect more. Pay less”?

10. EXPLORERS: What is the home country of Roald Amundsen, the first to reach the South Pole?

Answers 1. Arendelle. 2. Five. 3. Jacob Marley. 4. Seattle, Washington. 5. Paris and Istanbul (Constantinople). 6. Six. 7. “The Bluest Eye.” 8. 10,080. 9. Target. 10. Norway. © 2022 King

Transportation Security Administrators screened more than 1.3 million people on January 3, 2021, at airport security checkpoints across the United States. at was the largest number of travelers the TSA had seen since March 15, 2020, which was just four days a er the World Health Organization declared a pandemic. Airports and other transportation hubs are now as crowded as ever, as the world has largely opened up and vaccinations have helped people feel more con dent about traveling.

With millions once again returning to the roads, rails and skies to celebrate the holidays with friends and family, it is once again prudent to go over safety tips that pertain to holiday-related travel. Follow these guidelines when heading home for the holidays.

Make your home secure

Travel safety begins before you even step outside your door. It means securing the home and any belongings inside and protecting them from thieves who prey upon holiday travelers. Burglaries tend to rise in both the summer months and during the holidays, when homes are more likely to be vacant. Ask a neighbor to keep an eye on the property and report any suspicious activity. Install a home alarm and activate it. Utilize a video doorbell, which can be answered remotely. Don’t post travel plans on social media, and be sure your home looks occupied while you’re away.

Practice safe air travel

Airports are busy at all times of the year, but particularly so during the holiday season. Guard belongings by keeping an eye on your

luggage and other bags at all times, even a er boarding the plane. If you will be bringing a tablet, laptop or another expensive device onto the plane, put it on the x-ray belt last, so the device will not be out in the open for too long. Keep close to young children so they cannot wander o and get lost.

Prepare for vehicle travel

If you’re driving, get an oil change if it is due or close to it. Have an emergency kit packed into the car that includes road breakdown tools, ares, blankets, water, and snacks.

Avoid distractions while on the road and depart a er getting plenty of rest. Designate a sober driver to get everyone home a er drinking at a party where alcohol is being served.

It’s cold, icy and snowy in most areas during the holidays. Roads can be slippery and conditions suboptimal. Leave extra time, drive slowly and avoid driving until roads have been treated.

Keep gi s out of sight

When transporting gi s to and from home, including shopping for presents, keep items away from curious eyes. Packages should be kept in a locked trunk or in a covered cargo area. Consider shipping items to their destinations (and insure the packages) to avoid running the risk of gi s being lost or stolen en route.

ese are just a few ways to keep safe when traveling for the holiday season. Keep merry and bright by avoiding the and injury.