Holiday Guide II 2012

december 6, 2012

Guide

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here is still time left to get all your Holiday shopping done, and The Cheshire Herald has the tips you’ll need to make this season as stress free as possible. Inside you’ll find everything from advice on how to make the perfect holiday memory without breaking the bank to some favorite holiday recipes that are sure to be a hit with your guests.

THE CHESHIRE HERALD, DECEMBER 6, 2012

Ten

Holiday Guide 2012

Make Your Crafts Stand Out At The Next Holiday Fair You Attend C

raft fairs and flea markets are a staple of the holiday season. Not only are they ideal places to find one-of-a-kind gifts for anyone on your holiday shopping list, but they also are great opportunities for small business owners to broaden their client base while making a relatively small investment.

Each year schools, churches, senior clubs, and other organizations open their doors to holiday fairs in an effort to raise money for their respective organizations.

In some towns, fairs have expanded into temporary shopping markets where shoppers can go from booth to booth to find the perfect gift.

Being a part of one of these events can be as simple as paying the entrance fee and setting up a table. Individuals who have never sold wares at events such as these could find that they do quite well with such a captive audience. You do not have to be a professional sales person or event organizer to get involved.

Research opportunities Community resource pages or websites are often good sources of information about events the city or town will host. Church

bulletins and notices sent home from school may also list such announcements. Make a list of the events that are being held and see where they are located, what the cost is for being a part of the event, and how much of a crowd the event figures to draw. These

deciding factors will help you to gear your efforts toward the fairs that stand to be the most beneficial to you.

It is advisable to begin your search early so that you will have ample time to prepare for the fair, including conforming to the fair's

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requirements.

Know the rules Each fair asks different things of its vendors. Some events will have booths or tables provided for you, but many will require you to bring all the essentials and simply allot you a space. Fairs that are held outdoors could necessitate the use of a pop-up tent, particularly if inclement weather is on the horizon.

Electricity may be provided with some events, or you may be allowed to bring a generator. The event organizer also may have specific rules about table sizes, configuration, use of tablecloths to hide storage boxes or materials, decorating options, and more.

Carefully read over the guidelines for the event before you send in your registration fee. This way you know what you're getting involved with and won't risk losing your deposit for cancellation.

Set the scene Although shoppers will be there to select among products, and those products should be able to sell themselves, the atmosphere surrounding your booth should be designed to attract customers.

Sometimes a little window dressing makes a person more inclined to make a purchase. Keep this in mind as you design your booth.

If you are selling crocheted blankets for babies, set up a rocking chair or bassinet with a doll and display the blanket as it would be used. Those selling body lotions or other toiletries may want to create a spa atmosphere at their boot, complete with some aromatherapy candles and a cushioned seat in which shoppers can sit down and try some free samples.

In addition, decorate with a holiday theme that fits the season.

Be mindful of budget Your goal is to make money

when attending this event. So spend minimally and invest in display items that can be used again or customized for other uses. You do not want to break the bank decorating your booth or table, only to find that your sales are minimal.

When setting up the display, be conservative with how much stock you set out. You want your display to look like you have enough offerings, but you don't want to be left with too many extras at the end of the day. Offer options to shop online or for custom-ordered items so that you do not have to have 200 Christmas tree ornaments made for that day. This allows you to spread out your costs.

Offer a freebie Who can pass up a free item?

A bowl with candy or samples of your product may be all that's needed to draw customers into your booth. Another idea is to have potential customers fill out an entry form that will be drawn for a prize. Not only are you encouraging people to come to the table, but you also are collecting valuable marketing information that can be used at a later date to follow-up with customers and help you make future sales.

Participate with a pal Many fairs stretch on for hours, so it is advisable to do it with a friend or family member so you will have someone to talk to and also to man the booth while you step away for a bathroom or snack break. The hours will pass by much more quickly when you have some conversation going.

Be friendly and smile A warm smile can entice people to stop by. Talk up your products but don't be too pushy. If you are enthusiastic about what you are selling, there's a good chance others will be enthusiastic, too.

Look hot. Stay warm.

As always, our friendly service and competitive prices.

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Merry Christmas!

Happy Hanukkah!

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the cheshire herald, december 6, 2012

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Holiday Guide 2012

Create That Country Home Feel With Your Decorations This Year * Forgo traditional wrapping paper. Instead of flashy, storebought wrapping paper, wrap presents in brown paper and put presents under the tree as early as possible. instead of store-bought gift tags, create your own and attach a candy cane or another candy to the gift. * Think nature with decorations. items gathered from nature can give a home a rustic appeal during the holidays. hang a homemade wreath on the front door and include pine cones and clippings from evergreen trees

when adding decorative accents around the house. tuck a few decorative woven baskets in corners to further emphasize a rustic look. * Create homemade ornaments. homemade ornaments can also give a home a more rustic look come the holiday season. spend an afternoon creating holiday crafts with the kids and use these instead of store-bought ornaments. For those who are especially gifted craftsmen, put your woodworking skills to the test to create decorative wooden stock-

ings that, if not functional, can be replaced with more traditional stockings come christmas eve. * Don't forget the music. another way to create a country christmas is to play country christmas albums instead of classical or more traditional christmas records. Nearly every country music star of the past and present has recorded a christmas song or album, so create a master playlist of country christmas songs on your digital music player and play it throughout the season to set the holiday mood in your household.

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hristmas decorations can range from grandiose lighting displays to more subtle adornments. some families may prefer more traditional holiday decor, while others might like the look of modern trimmings. holiday decorations can also be used to create an atmosphere reminiscent of a certain type of locale, giving a home a holidayin-the-city vibe or a more rustic feel. For those who prefer a rus-

tic look reminiscent of a country christmas, consider the following tips. * Start with the tree. the christmas tree is the center of many a home's holiday decor, and those who want to create a country christmas can start with their tree. instead of traditional holiday lights, choose lights that look like candles while adorning the tree with wooden ornaments and strands of popcorn.

• Photos • Needlework • Playbills • Coins • Wine Labels • Match Boxes • Christening Gowns

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Local this Holiday p o h S Come join Cheshire Pilates Studio for our special Holiday Shopping Experience! Saturday, December 8th 9am-1pm Denali will be at Cheshire Pilates Studio with a yoga clothing line and brands such as The North Face, Patagonia, Under Armour, and more!

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the cheshire herald, december 6, 2012

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Holiday Guide 2012

Know Your Christmas Movie Quotes? Take The Quiz Right Here

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hat would the holidays be without snowflakes falling outside, a mug of hot cocoa in hand, and a favorite christmas movie on television? television is full of feel-good movies come the holiday season.

Choose from among classic flicks you have watched year after year or new movies vying for spots as soon-to-be favorites.

Watching christmas movies is a holiday tradition for many families. so much so that lines from popular movies are easily remembered and recognized. those who can recite movies verbatim might enjoy testing their mettle with the following christmas quiz loaded with memorable quotes from some holiday classics.

Movie Quotes Quiz 1. "it came without ribbons. it came without tags. it came without packages, boxes, or bags."

2. "Uh, since the United states Government declares this man to be santa claus, this court will not dispute it. case dismissed."

3. "if tV has taught me anything, it's that miracles always happen to poor kids at christmas. it happened to tiny tim, it happened to charlie brown, it hap-

pened to the smurfs, and it's gonna happen to us!"

4. "I want an official Red Ryder, carbine action, 200 shot range model air rifle."

5. "bless this highly nutritious microwava b l e macar o n i a n d cheese dinner and the people who sold it on sale. amen."

6. "iris, in the movies, we have leading ladies and we have the best friend. You, i can tell, are a leading lady, but for some reason, you're behaving like the best friend."

7. "Who gave you permission to tell charlie there was no santa claus? i think if we're going to destroy our son's delusions, i should be a part of it."

8. "i want to wash my hands, my face, my hair with snow."

9. "We're not just doing this for us. We're doing it for the kids. For every kid who ever sat on santa's

lap. For every little girl who left cookies and milk for santa on christmas night. For every little boy who opens a package christmas morning and finds clothes instead of toys. it breaks my heart."

10. "We all know that christmas is a big commercial racket. it's run by a big eastern syndicate you know."

11. "i fear you more than any spectre i have seen. but as i know your purpose is to do me good, and as i hope to live to be another man from what i was, i am prepared to bear your company, and do it with a thankful heart. Will you not speak to me?"

12. "seeing is believing, but sometimes the most real things in the world are the things we can't see."

13. "light the lamp, not the rat, light the lamp, not the rat! Put me out, put me out, put me out!"

14. "tell me something, billy. how come a cute little guy like this can turn into a thousand ugly

monsters?"

15. "Wanna see some magic?

OK, let's watch you disappear!"

16. "that's not 'my' christmas! 'My' Christmas is filled with laughter, and joy... and this: my Sandy Claws outfit. I want you to make it."

17. "that's neither pig nor pork,

it's beef."

18. "i passed through the seven levels of the candy cane forest, through the sea of swirly twirly gum drops, and then i walked through the lincoln tunnel." the answers to the movie quote questions can be found on page 15.

Make Lighting The Tree Easier

L

ighting a christmas tree may seem like child's play, but time and again people struggle with the task. Untangling wires and wrapping them around boughs can be nerve wracking, but lighting a tree doesn't have to be a chore when you follow some tips from the professionals.

First, keep in mind that wrapping lights around the tree horizontally is more work and often doesn't produce a multi-dimensional effect. rather, string the lights from the trunk up to the top, working vertically. this is actually how the tree decorators at rockefeller center in New York city do the famous

tree year after year. this method helps eliminate tangled wires and empty spots. remember to plug in the strands of lights before you begin to check for burnt-out bulbs and to adjust the spacing of lights to prevent dark spots. think about varying light bulb sizes to add more dimension. string an inner layer of small led white lights to produce an inner glow on the tree before adding larger, colored lights on top to increase visual appeal.

Just be sure to match the same wattage of the lights so that you do not have power surges and can prolong the life of the bulbs.

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the cheshire herald, december 6, 2012

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Holiday Guide 2012

Best Deals Can Many Times Be Found Right After The New Year

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hen the holiday shopping rush ends, there are plenty of people who are ready to retire their credit cards for awhile and take a break from the checkout lines. still, others look forward to the sales that start the new year, eager to get great deals on many different products and services. there are many deals to be had when January arrives. smart shoppers may want to wait until the dawn of the new year to get great deals on a wide variety of products. * Electronics: although many electronics go on sale for the holiday season, once January arrives there is another round of major discounts on electronics, even high-end items that were not included in holiday sales. New items are unveiled each year at the consumer electronics show in mid-January, and many stores begin to clear out older inventory to make room for the latest offerings in home-theater systems, televisions and the like. these sales are bound to continue into February. * Furniture: New furniture designs are largely unveiled in

likely still fresh, and does it really matter if those cookies came in a red-and-green tin? * Contractors: many people renovate their homes in the fall right before the holidays. therefore, contractors and other home renovators may be at a loss for work come January and may discount their services to generate new business. * New home: the spring and

summer are prime seasons for buying a new home. Few people want to brave the elements and look at homes with yards devoid of flowers and shrubbery. But buying a home in the winter may be more financially prudent. the new year presents several opportunities to save money on items that are deeply discounted or go on sale right after the festive season has passed.

Tips For Returning Those Gifts

February, so come the beginning of the new year homeowners and renters can score good prices on clearance inventory. those looking to start out the new year with new designs can generally find good prices at the start of the year. * Last-minute travel: although the cost of travel, especially trips to warm weather locales, can increase in January, last-minute travel package combinations are often available at low prices this time of year. * Fitness gear: many people make resolutions to get in shape;

therefore gyms, spas, and manufacturers of fitness equipment may discount their products to take advantage of the trend toward getting in shape after a season of overindulgence. * Winter apparel: many postholiday sales focus on clearing out inventory of winter essentials, like coats, sweaters, hats and gloves. Now may be the time to update your winter wardrobe. * Christmas treats: stores are looking to liquidate any items that have a christmas or holiday motif. the products inside are

T

he magic of the holiday season is hard to replicate.

Gatherings with friends and family members can put smiles on many people's faces, especially for those people who only see their loved ones once a year. but the smiles and laughter may dim when faced with the prospect of returning unwanted gifts. Few people haven't had to return a holiday gift once or twice in their lifetimes. in fact, a survey from Consumer Reports indi-

cates that 1 in 5 americans will return a holiday present this year, while retail merchants expect about 10 percent of all holiday purchases to be returned.

Part of the difficulty of returning items is a result of stores cracking down on merchandise fraud.

While there are scores of honest customers simply looking to exchange that paw print set of pajamas for something a little more stylish, there are plenty others who are See HAVE, page 15

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the cheshire herald, december 6, 2012

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Holiday Guide 2012

Try Out Some New, Unique Themes To Spice Up Your Holiday Party

P

arties are an integral part of the holiday season, when friends and family gather to celebrate and give thanks. For holiday hosts, parties are a great opportunity to make the season even more festive with an event that guests won't soon forget. the following are just a few themes to make your holiday party as memorable as it is merry. * Christmas sweater party: christmas sweater parties have grown in popularity over the last decade, when revelers have tried to outdo one another with the

most outrageous holiday-themed sweater. Give prizes for the most outlandish sweater and let guests know early on so they can begin their hunt for a holiday sweater that's so ugly or outrageous you can't help but love it. * Christmas costume party: costume parties aren't just for halloween. this holiday season, consider making your holiday bash a costume party, encouraging guests to dress up as their favorite characters from holiday tales like "Frosty the snowman," "a christmas carol," or any of the host of beloved holiday legends. * Caribbean Christmas: the weather come the holiday sea-

son may be the one thing to put a damper on the festivities. to combat blue feelings from potentially inclement weather, consider a caribbean theme for your holiday party this season. rather than wearing sweaters and long pants, wear beach attire and give the party a touch of the caribbean. Outfit your home in beach decor and serve food and drinks reminiscent of the caribbean instead of more traditional holiday fare like eggnog and gingerbread cookies. * Film festival: holiday movies are another tradition of the season, so why not invite friends and family over for a holiday film marathon? include classics like "it's a Wonderful life" and "a christmas story" and encourage guests to submit their own favor-

ites for consideration. * Christmas karaoke: For those who love to belt out their favorite holiday tunes, consider throwing a christmas karaoke party that allows guests to per-

form their own renditions of their favorite christmas carols.

Purchase a home karaoke set and ask guests in advance of the party if there are any particular songs they'd like to perform.

Most Pets Returned To Shelters

continued from page 7

* New pets should be carefully supervised around children to see how they behave. a child may not be accustomed to handling a puppy or kitten and could injure the animal. similarly, the pet may be skittish and lash out at the child. adults busy with holiday obligations may be easily distracted and miss how their child is interacting with the new pet. * Once the glow of the holidays wears off, children may be disillusioned with the new responsibility that has fallen into their hands. they may not like the rchores that comes with being a good pet owner. reputable pet breeders and animal shelters often discour-

age individuals from adopting or purchasing pets as holiday gifts. many organizations and animal businesses require a careful vetting of potential pet parents to ensure the animal will be placed with a family and in a home that is suitable. animal welfare groups warn that an estimated 50 percent of pets adopted during the holidays end up right back at shelters. this can scar the pet. avoid the temptation of giving a companion animal as a present. if it is your intention to gift an animal, talk to the gift recipient and discuss the pros and cons beforehand. then you can work together and make the right decision for all parties involved, including the pet.

Reuse Your Discarded Materials

continued from page 5

many items around the house that can be recycled into decorative gift wrap. sew scraps of fabric together for a patchwork bag or use glossy photos from a fashion magazine to papier mache a box.

When you think creatively, you're bound to come up with some very usable and eco-friendly ideas. although many people tend to go overboard for the holidays, it does not have to be unfriendly to the environment.

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From complete, up-to-date coverage of Town Hall news to the weekly High School sports results. The Cheshire Herald provides all the information a person could want and more. This Holiday, make sure all of your family and friends are in the know. Stuff their stockings, cards, bags and boxes with a Cheshire Herald Subscription.

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the cheshire herald, december 6, 2012

Fifteen

Holiday Guide 2012

Have Everything Ready When You’re Returning Those Holiday Gifts

continued from page 13

interested in taking advantage of the holiday season to return items that may have been used, such as a cocktail dress that livened up christmas festivities just as much as the spiked egg nog, only to be returned december 26. With the desire to curtail fraud, retailers have tightened the reins on return policies.

Keeping this in mind and being prepared for a conversation with a

store's customer service employee can make the return process go more smoothly. * Know the store's return policy. it pays to go online or call the store to find out about its specific return policy. being armed with this knowledge could help you avoid a trip to the store and waiting in line only to be turned away. return policies may vary depending on the item being returned, so be sure to check about the item

you have. requirements often are more stringent on electronics. * Use a receipt whenever possible. receipts speed up the return process considerably. Whether it is the actual receipt or a gift receipt, this small slip of paper is evidence that the item being returned actually was purchased at that particular store on a particular date. * Bring identification. stores will sometimes honor a return

for store credit when you present your driver's license. Keep in mind that there may be a strict limit on how many items you can return without a receipt, and many stores keep track of this information by utilizing the unique scan code on your license. if you are a serial returner, you may find your efforts are for naught. * Keep boxes closed. restocking fees are charges exacted for items returned that have been

opened. Generally they are applied to electronics and appliances -- sometimes 15 to 30 percent of the total purchase price. to get the most value for your return, be sure to keep the box closed. cut down on the stress and hassle of holiday returns by knowing store policies and only returning items that are unopened and unused. and whenever possible, bring a receipt, even if it's just a gift receipt.

Pipes In Most Danger Of Bursting Are Those Most Often Exposed To Cold Weather

continued from page 4

and businesses a lot of money. by taking a few simple precautions you can save yourself the mess, cost, and aggravation frozen pipes cause.

With a little attention and simple maintenance, you can help prevent pipes from freezing, says Piact. Pipes that freeze most often are those exposed to the se-

vere cold, such as those located in unheated interior areas like basements or attics, crawl spaces, garages, and kitchen cabinets. some measures Piact suggests for safeguarding pipes and property include insulating the pipes in these areas. additionally, make sure you seal leaks that allow cold air inside near the pipes. look for air leaks and use caulk

Eat Homemade Bread Same Day

continued from page 9

three minutes. if you are using a cake pan, then grease it well.

Pour the batter into the hot skillet or the prepared pan and bake in the oven for about 20 minutes until firm to the touch and a

toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. serve while still warm, either straight from the skillet or turned out of the pan onto a cutting board and cut into large squares. best eaten the same day. Not suitable for freezing.

or insulation to keep the cold out and the heat in. Water supply to outside valves (hose bibs) usually have a shut off valve inside the house. the homeowner should shut the inside valve and open the outside valve. if water continues to drip outside, there may be a leak at the inside valve. You’ll probably need to call a plumber to fix this.

For pipes in crawlspaces and garages, it may be necessary to wrap the pipe with an electrical insulator. these wraps act like heating pads for the pipe to keep the fluid from freezing. if your pipes do freeze, don’t take any chances, warns Piact. if you turn on your faucets and no water comes out, leave the faucet on, turn off the main shut-off

Answers To The Holiday Movie Quote Quiz

the following are the answers to the holiday movie Quote Quiz on page 12.

1. "the Grinch Who stole christmas" 2. "miracle on 34th street" 3. "the simpson's christmas"

4. "a christmas story" 5. "home alone" 6. "the holiday" 7. "the santa clause" 8. "White christmas" 9. "Jingle all the Way" 10. "a charlie brown christmas" 11. "a christmas carol"

Give To The Artsplace Giving Tree

artsplace, 1220 Waterbury road, home of the cheshire Performing & Fine arts committee (cPFa) is sponsoring a “Giving tree” of art supplies for cheshire Youth and social services. the art supplies can vary from a box of crayons to a set of pastels, or pad of paper. any new

art-related item will be appreciated, large or small. all will be donated to children of cheshire families experiencing a financial hardship. bring art supplies to artsplace before dec. 14. call (203) 2722787 to determine the best time to make your donation.

12. "the Polar express" 13. "the muppets christmas carol" 14. "Gremlins" 15. "bad santa" 16. "the Nightmare before christmas" 17. "babes in toyland" 18. "elf"

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the cheshire herald, december 6, 2012

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the cheshire herald, december 6, 2012

two

Holiday Guide 2012

Last-Minute Shopping Doesn’t Have To Be A Stressful Endeavor

I

t's december 22 and you've just barely made it through half of your holiday shopping list. the panic may have set in that you just don't have enough time to get everything done. this is a common scenario around the holidays. shoppers have the best intentions to get their gifts early, but whether because of work obligations or so-

cial events, the task seems to get pushed further and further into december. soon, many are staring down the calendar experiencing sweaty palms. many others may be putting off holiday shopping simply because of the current state of the economy and affordability. according to a steelhouse marketing consultants poll of

1,000 consumers, 62 percent predict they will spend less money on the 2012 holiday season. Plus, 56 percent of families predict they will comparison shop more than they have in the past. these factors may contribute to just how long shoppers put off actually getting into stores or going online to shop.

For the scores of shoppers who

Joseph A. Conte Jewelers, Inc.

consciously or subconsciously wait until the last possible minute to shop, there are ways to survive and surprise friends and family with great gifts. * Gift cards: they may not have sentimental meaning behind them, but gift cards are fast and easy. chances are you can run into a store and be out with a handful of gift cards in less than 15 minutes, depending on lines at the checkout counter. also, many supermarkets, bookstores, and other retailers offer gift card kiosks enabling you to shop for different gift cards all in one place. * Magazine subscription: a magazine subscription is an easy fix as a last-minute gift. Purchase one copy of the magazine at the newsstand and wrap it up nicely.

Put a note that a year's worth of this periodical is on the way. No one will suspect that the gift was a last-minute thought. * E-certificates: retailers like music or book sellers will e-mail

a gift certificate code to the person of your choice on a selected date.

For those who are never without an e-reader or mP3 player, digital gifts could fit the bill. * Gas card: it may sound funny and tacky, but a gas card from a brand-name station is a universally acceptable gift for anyone who drives regularly. With fluctuating gas prices, filling up the tank can be an expensive venture. having a pre-paid gift card can help.

Online retailers are also there to help last-minute shoppers. many online retailers guarantee in-time-for-christmas shipping even on gifts ordered as late as december 23. however, overnight shipping charges will cost more. but it's all worth it to get the item in time.

Waiting until the last minute for shopping can induce some anxiety. but knowing about easy gifts for procrastinators can take the stress out of this type of shopping.

42 Years of Jewelry Manufacturing Specializing in engagement rings, wedding rings and settings. Set while you watch by Joseph A. Conte personally.

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Gift Certificates Available Free Gift Wrapping

Thurs Dec. 13 and Dec. 20 6-8 pm

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3490 Whitney Ave., Hamden, CT (next to Talbot’s)

(203) 288-1133

Hours: Mon., Tues., Wed., Fri. 10-5:30; Thurs., 10-7:00, Sat. 10-5:00, Sun. 12-4

the cheshire herald, december 6, 2012

three

Holiday Guide 2012

No Need To Bust Your Bank Account To Acquire A Great Present G

iving is synonymous with the holiday season. but in a holiday season where people are still dealing with a sagging and unpredictable economy, giving in a way that won't break the bank is imperative for many thoughtful holiday shoppers. in response to the economy, many families have set limits on how much family members

can spend on holiday gifts. such budgets are a great idea and can even make holiday shopping more fun as shoppers hunt down the perfect gift without having to worry about how they're going to pay for it. low-cost holiday gifts come in many shapes and sizes, and the following are a few ideas to help you get started.

Food & Beverage If you need to find an inexpensive gift for the family foodie,

then you're in luck. Plenty of culinary gifts can be had for less than $25. early risers might appreciate some gourmet coffee beans accompanied by a new coffee mug, while those who prefer tea instead of coffee would no doubt appreciate a variety pack of herbal teas and a new teacup or teapot. men and women who embrace mealtime as an opportunity to ex-

perience various styles of cuisine would likely love a cookbook filled with recipes from all over the world or a particular country whose cuisine inspires them. another great gift for foodies is a membership to a club such as "Pastry of the month" or "coffee of the month." such gifts cost a little more than thrifty shoppers would care to spend, but there are some deals to be had on such memberships come the holiday

season.

Photography the dawn of the digital age has made photography more popular than ever before. amateur photographers can now take photos with a digital camera or even their cellular phones and post their pictures to the internet in a matter of seconds. though online photo albums are popular, a traditional photo album is a thoughtful and inexpensive gift for a loved one who can't take enough pictures.

New parents might also consider giving their youngster's grandparents a photo album filled with photos of the family's newest addition.

Film Fans movie buffs are passionate about their favorite films, and feeding that passion can be easy and inexpensive. Many film fans have a favorite director or actor, so why not gift a collection of that director or actor's work? Perhaps thanks to the growing popularity of streaming movies online, dVds are now more affordable than ever.

Many film fanatics are also interested in the history of the film industry, so a book detailing that history might appeal to your loved ones.

Of course, all film fans generally appreciate a gift certificate to their local multiplex.

Pet Parents Pet parents are enamored with their furry friends, so a pet-oriented gift is sure to make their holi-

day season even more special. a new bowl, a flashy new collar, or some additional attire aimed at helping their beloved pooch or cat stay warm through the winter months won't cost much, but it's certainly something most pet owners and their pets need.

For the pet parent who seemingly has everything, remember that pets can never have enough toys. Pets tend to play rough, so their toys aren't known for their longevity. some new pet toys can be had on the cheap, and pet parents will appreciate the gesture.

Rest & Relaxation

arguably one of the best holiday gifts is one that won't cost shoppers a penny. Offer to babysit a loved one's kids so the adults can enjoy a worry-free night on the town or simply relax at home without the kids. another r&r gift is to book a spa trip for you and a loved one.

While this won't necessarily qualify as an inexpensive holiday gift, you can often get great deals on spa treatments and other luxurious services when you book for two. and booking such a trip is also a way to reward yourself for surviving another holiday season.

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THE CHESHIRE HERALD, DECEMBER 6, 2012

Four

Holiday Guide 2012

Still Haven’t Sent All Those Cards? Here Are Some Hints To Help

M

illions of greeting cards are sent out each holiday season. Estimates suggest that 85 percent of the United States population, or roughly 250 million people, mail out greeting cards.

That adds up to billions of cards going through the postal system -- and all in a relatively short period of time.

Men and women who hope to send holiday greeting cards must purchase, prepare, and mail the cards early enough so they are received prior to the holiday. It is never too early to begin greeting card preparation and assembly.

The majority of cards are bought in boxed packages or groupings of photo cards. Gone are the days of hand-picking individual greeting cards for every recipient. This trend toward general-theme cards has streamlined the process and can help senders start their tasks earlier than ever before. Some people like to take advantage of post-holiday sales to stock up on greeting cards for

the following year at a deep discount. This means they can write the cards out at their leisure and then simply toss them into the mailbox at the appropriate time.

Much in the way people begin their holiday shopping or decorating right after the Thanksgiving turkey leftovers have been stored away, a good majority of people also begin their greeting

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card writing after Thanksgiving as well. Those who want their cards to arrive first will mail them within a few days of Thanksgiving. When sent domestically, it is safe to assume that cards mailed out up to two weeks before Christmas will arrive on time.

After that point, you may be risking lateness, particularly for rural delivery addresses unless cards are sent priority. For those who need to mail cards internationally, sticking close to the end of November will ensure they arrive in a timely manner.

People who want to make a statement and not have their greeting cards get lost in the crowd may intentionally mail them late and lean toward wishing health and prosperity for the new year, rather than sending

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a card tied to a specific holiday.

This gives extra time for mailing and will set cards apart from the many others.

Photo cards have grown in popularity and people interested in having a professional photographer shoot their holiday card photos would be wise to make an appointment as early as possible. Popular photographers often start holiday photo shoots in October. Keep in mind that the photographs can take a while to be processed and arrive. For those who are on borrowed time, taking a photo with a personal camera and having prints made up at a pharmacy or retail store can save time. It is unlikely that professional photos taken in December can be printed, mailed and still arrive on time.

Also, be sure to heed copyright laws concerning photographs. It

may be illegal to scan an image from a photographer or photo studio and have prints made without written permission.

Postage is another thing that will have to be considered when mailing out cards. While many cards fall under the weight and size limits of a regular first class postage stamp, unusually shaped envelopes or heavy greeting cards may cost more. Rather than have them returned, it is a good idea to have at least one card weighed at the post office to ensure the right amount of postage is affixed.

Some cards will be packaged with envelopes that state "Additional postage may be required" right on the box.

Greeting cards are an important component of the holiday season.

Ensuring they arrive on time requires planning and sending them out with ample time to spare.

Don’t Let Your Pipes Burst This Winter

T

he Professional Insurance Agents of Connecticut Inc. reminds homeowners and business owners that now is the time to prevent your pipes from freezing. Winter can bring extreme, cold temperatures, and it does not have to snow and sleet for your household pipes to freeze.

Anytime the temperature reaches 32 degrees or below, if your pipes are not properly winterized, it could mean disaster for your home or business.

“Subject to a deductible, most homeowners’ policies cover damage resulting from frozen pipes, including the repair of the pipe,” says Timothy G. Russell, CPCU, president of PIACT. “Your policy will cover dwelling damage, and damage to personal prop-

erty, such as furniture and rugs.

And, tenants of a residence can get similar coverage for personal property by purchasing a renters policy and business owners can purchase similar coverage for business property.”

However, PIACT warns, no coverage exists for frozen-pipe damage to an unoccupied home or business, unless heat is maintained in the building or the pipes have been drained. Even though most homeowners’ policies cover such damage, it’s important to prevent it before it happens. An eighthinch crack in a pipe can send up to 250 gallons of water flowing a day, destroying equipment and files; wrecking floors and furniture; and costing homeowners See PIPES, page 15

C R E AT I V E E V E N T S B Y B O N N I E

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Middlebury Consignment

The Design Center

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• Serving lunch daily • Offering cooking classes and private parties

• Featuring Hunter Douglas • A design staff to assist you with your custom design needs • Dylan’s Candy Bar • Fine European chocolates and homemade fudge

HOME FURNISHINGS and FINE FURNITURE including: “This place is amazing!” – Scot Haney

Store Hours: Monday - Saturday 10-5 Thursday - Open late till 7pm Sunday 11-5 Consignment Hours: Monday - Friday 10-2 Sat/Sun - By appointment

MacKenzie-Childs • Juliska • Theodore Alexander Henredon • Maitland-Smith • and many more!

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1365 Whittemore Road • Middlebury, CT 06762 • (203) 528-0130

I'm here to assist you in choosing the perfect hors d'oeuvres, dinner, dessert and perhaps a holiday signature cocktail!

I will even help with décor, rentals and provide professional service staff.

Your party will have a touch of class!

PLAN YOUR HOLIDAYS with

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CATERING • GIFT BASKETS SPECIALIZING IN BUSINESS LUNCHEONS Last minute orders welcome Delivery Available

the cheshire herald, december 6, 2012

Five

Holiday Guide 2012

Holiday Season Can Be “Green” With A Few Energy Efficient Ideas and shipped over to North america on large vessels that require a lot of fuel. think about reducing your decorations or replacing plastic and metal decorations for all-natural options. branches of holly or twigs tied with ribbon to form a natural wreath are just as decorative as store-bought plastic decorations. * Don't leave lights on for extended periods of time. homes and businesses bedecked in holiday lights are staples of the season. however, extra lights, inflatable lawn Santas, and other

t i C e l e b r a

41

accessories consume substantial amounts of energy. instead of leaving lights and other decorative items running for hours each night, turn them off after a little while to save energy. * Donate money in lieu of gifts. choose environmentally responsible charities and donate funds to their efforts in the name of people who do not need another package of pajamas. * Use decomposable shipping peanuts. shipping peanuts are environmentally friendly packing products that are made from

Expires 12/24/12.

cut down and turned into holiday decor. responsible tree farms will plant many more trees than are needed for the purpose of christmas trees. be a good steward for the environment and recycle your tree once the holidays are over. some recycling centers will pick them up for free or a small fee. * Consider giving food as a gift. Food is consumable, doesn't take up space, and locally grown food does not require shipping or wasteful packaging. it's an ideal gift for those who already have everything. * Cut back on holiday decor. most people love showcasing their christmas spirit with decorations. however, many decorative products are produced overseas

hile the holiday season is a time of joy, giving and religious reflection, it can also be a time of excess. holiday parties, meals brimming with more food than the average person can consume, wrapping paper tossed aside after minimal usage, and shoppers venturing for miles in cars in search of presents can all prove wasteful.

For the environmentally conscious, the holiday season is a great opportunity to put your ideals to use. although it may seem like a challenging task, going green for the holidays is easier than you might think. * Get a live Christmas tree. christmas trees are planted expressly for the purpose of being

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n g

Year s

W

cornstarch. When they come in contact with water, they dissolve -- making for easy clean-up and less trash. * Donate unused gifts. Nearly everyone gets an unwanted gift come the holiday season. instead of putting items in the trash or taking them back to the store, donate gifts you'll never use to a charity or a thrift shop. * Wrap gifts with wrapping paper alternatives. Wrapping paper is a luxury item and one that tends to be wasteful. there are

TOYS FOR TOTS EVENT Wed., Dec. 19th from 4-7 pm

THE CHESHIRE HERALD, DECEMBER 6, 2012

Six

Holiday Guide 2012

It’s Beginning To Look A Lot Like Christmas

Photos by Tracey Harrington and Allen Paul

It’s beginning to look a lot like Christmas in Cheshire as several holidaythemed events have already taken place.

Above left: (from left) Barbara Sireno, Catherine Mattheis, Jack Lyons, and Anita Linsley helped cook food at the St. Peter’s Church Christmas Bazaar.

Above right: The Cheshire Choir sang some favorite holiday tunes at the tree lighting ceremony Sunday.

Right: Barbara Grudzias sold her cookies at the First Congregational Church Christmas Fair.

Left: Gunnar got his picture taken with Santa.

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the cheshire herald, december 6, 2012

seven

Holiday Guide 2012

Don’t Give The Gift Of A Pet Before Considering What’s In Store M

any people consider pets great holiday gifts. but in spite of their popularity as presents, pets do not always make the most appropriate holiday gift.

Giving a pet as a present seems like a great idea, but shoppers might want to give it more consideration before giving a gift that is such a considerable responsibility. a puppy at christmas or a bunny at easter may be given with good intentions, but that well-meaning sentiment can eas-

ily backfire, ending with the pet being given up for adoption when recipients don't feel up to the task of raising a pet. in such instances, the companion animal pays the steepest price. though it often is, buying a pet should not be an impulse purchase. You see sad eyes looking back at you from behind a cage door and want to give that animal a new home. however, introducing an animal into a family is not a decision to take lightly. You

must factor how well the pet will fit in with the family dynamic. Do schedules allow for quality time spent with the animal? Is it a financially good time to care for an animal that will cost money? are you aware of how long the pet will live? making those big decisions for a person on the receiving end of your well-intentioned gift may be crossing a line. Would you want to have such a lifechanging decision made for you?

Furthermore, the holiday sea-

son is not one ideally suited for making careful decisions. People are often swept up in emotions and even stress, and shoppers may not be thinking rationally. the hectic nature of the holiday season can be a difficult time for a pet to grow acclimated to its new environment. he or she may be frightened to assimilate or take longer to settle down. Pets often need several weeks of quiet and constant care to become comfortable in their new environments.

here are some other reasons why the holidays are not a good time for new pets. * holiday visitors may frighten the new pet and he or she may become wary of strangers at the outset. * the activities in the household may pose safety hazards for the young animal. an abundance of rich foods and various decorations could be ingested, potentially causing illness.

See MOST, page 14

Holiday Dining Destinations Señor Pancho’s A Little Tex -- A LOT of Mex

Booking Holiday Parties 280 Cheshire Rd. (Rt. 68), Prospect 203-758-7788 www.SenorPanchos.com

www.carmenanthony.com

FREE

QUESO DIP BOWL Enjoy a free bowl of queso with the purchase of any two entrees Expires 12/31/12

$

CH

10 OFF

The Purchase Of $50 Or More

One coupon per party/per table. Not to be combined with any other offer or promotion. Must present coupon.

Expires 12/31/2012

CH

1636 Meriden Wtby. Rd., Rt. 322®Milldale, CT Exit 28 Off I-84 (860) 628-9877

HOLIDAY CATERING MENU AVAILABLE

w w w . m a n o r i n n r e s t a u r a n t . c o m Italian Restaurant & Pizzeria 150 Main St. •Cheshire

(Across from St. Bridget’s Church)

203-271-9143

Wonderful selection of pasta dishes, chicken, seafood, veal, steaks, filet mignon, rack of lamb, and ribs. Fresh fish delivered daily.

Order your Holiday Platters now!!!

(Holiday menus available) Also ~ Booking Holiday Parties Give the Gift of Fine Food

Gift Certificates Available!

New Expanded Dining Room Available for Private Parties

• Daily Lunch & Dinner Specials • • Children’s Menu • Party Platters • Eat In/Take Out!

Mon.-Thurs. 11:30 - 9; Fri. & Sat. 11:30 - 10, Sun. Noon - 8 We will be open Mondays in December

Fresh Festive Fare To-Go! Design a delectable holiday menu to be delivered or picked up at our office right here in Cheshire.

Please contact us at 203.272.8213 to inquire about your upcoming holiday event.

Full service special events available.

Wishing you a happy and healthy holiday season, from our kitchen to yours!

View Full Menu & Parties Platters at www.vespuccis.com

1718 Highland Avenue, Cheshire CT 06410 • www.jordancaterers.com

the cheshire herald, december 6, 2012

eight

Holiday Guide 2012

Raise Your Holiday Spirits With A Few Of These Classic Cocktails

T

he holiday season is a festive time of year when opportunities to entertain abound. the search may be on for the ideal food and beverage recipes to tie into the holiday season. although just about any drink can be given a holiday spin with the right name (think merry martinis), you may want to come up with a theme drink that fits with your particular party. explore these ideas for delicious and festive alcoholic and

nonalcoholic options.

White Christmas Hot Chocolate *3 cups light cream or halfand-half *3/4 cup vanilla candy melts, chopped *1 teaspoon vanilla *Pinch of ground cinnamon *1 ounce irish cream liqueur *combine 1 cup of the cream with the candy in a saucepan. melt over low heat, being careful not to burn. add the remaining

cream, vanilla and cinnamon until everything is heated. add the liqueur and stir.

Garnish with more cinnamon. serve warm.

The Candy Cane *1 ounce vodka *1 ounce peppermint schnapps

*1/2 ounce grenadine syrup *carefully layer the grenadine syrup and the midori liqueur in a shot glass to have red and green layers.

Holiday Sparkle *2 ounces apple cider *1 ounce club soda *cinnamon stick *mix cider with club soda and serve in a tall glass with a cinnamon stick garnish. a refreshing and nonalcoholic drink option.

*1/2 ounce heavy cream *dash of grenadine for color *mix all ingredients in a cocktail shaker filled with ice.

Pour into glasses filled with crushed ice.

Garnish with a candy cane.

Sweet Santa Shots *1 ounce midori liqueur

Holiday Dining Destinations Season’s Greetings CATERING Catering for 10 to 1001 people We have over 75 Hot and Cold Entrees.

Relax, Let’s us deliver yours to you, you’ll love it

WAVERLY RESTAURANT 286 Maple Avenue

Cheshire

203-272-2441

LUNCH HOURS

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DINNER HOURS

HAPPY HOUR BUFFET

Tues - Sun 11:30 AM - 5 PM Tues - Sun 5 PM - 10 PM

All Day

Wed - Fri 4 PM - 7 PM

Make your Reservation now for Holiday Parties for 10-150 People

(203) 754-5600 540 Plank Road (I-84) Waterbury www.nardellis.com

Zingarella Pizzeria & Italian Ristorante 83 West Main St. Plantsville, CT

860.628.ZING (9464) Gift Cards Available “WHERE WHO’S WHO COMES TO CHEW!” 1127 Highland Avenue ❦ Cheshire 203-271-FOOD (3663) ❦ www.paulsrestaurant.net Mon-Fri: 6:30am - 3pm, Sat: 6:30am - 2:30pm, Sun: 8am - 2pm

www.zingarellas.com Private Banquet Room Authentic Italian Dinners Fresh-made Pasta New York Style Hand-tossed Pizza Pies Full Cocktail Bar

the cheshire herald, december 6, 2012

Nine

Holiday Guide 2012

Looking For A New Recipe This Season? Try An Old Staple - Bread

E

ntertaining family and friends often entails sitting down to a good meal. hosts can have the meal catered, but many prefer to whip up a favorite recipe or try something new.

While the entree often gets the bulk of the attention, hosts who want to go the extra mile can spend some extra time supplementing the meal with some homecooked side dishes. bread makes a perfect side dish or ap-

petizer for many meals, and those who want to try their hand at baking their own bread should consider the following recipe for "southwest cornbread" from linda collister's "Quick breads."

Southwest Cornbread Makes 1 medium bread *2 cups corn kernels, fresh or frozen *2/3 cup fine yellow cornmeal *1 teaspoon baking powder

*1/2 teaspoon salt *1/2 cup pine nuts, toasted *1 rounded teaspoon chopped fresh sage leaves *1 scallion, sliced *1 cup unbleached all-purpose flour *1/4 cup corn oil *2 extra-large eggs *1 cup buttermilk *1 pat of butter *1 9-inch cast iron, ovenproof skillet or an 8-inch square cake

pan *Preheat the oven to 350 F. *Put the corn kernels, cornmeal, baking powder, salt, pine nuts, sage, scallion, and flour in a large bowl and mix well. in a separate bowl, beat the oil with the eggs and buttermilk, then stir into the dry ingredients to make a thick batter. if you are using the skillet, heat the pan with the pat of butter in the oven until foaming -- about

See EAT, page 15

Holiday Dining Destinations Good Food The Victorian House Good Friends, Good Times...

Restaurant & Tavern

226 Maple Avenue

Order Holiday

Party Trays • Stuffed Breads Lasagna • Sausage & Peppers Eggplant Parmigiana and Other Favorites

Cheshire

203-272-5743

www.thevichouse.com

A legend & landmark for great food, fun and company for decades!

Holiday Parties

Live entertainment on weekends!

Karaoke every Saturday!

Private room available

Happy Hour 4:00-6:00 Make your family reservations now for Easter

Happy Hour 4-6 pm. Drink & Appetizer Specials 4-6 pm! and Mothers Day!

Every day

Gift Certificates

Sign-up now for the Annual Vic House Open Golf Tournament to benefit the Wounded Warriors!

GIFT CERTIFICATES

Two Great Restaurants - Both Nearby!

529 West Main Street, Cheshire Ph: 203-272-7297 • Fax: 203-272-0309 www.cheshirerossini.com

Restaurant & Tavern

Extensive Menus – Daily Lunch & Dinner Specials – Open 7 Days a Week

226 Maple Ave., Cheshireª(203)

272-5743

Monday Martini Madness – two for one Martinis www.thevichouse.com Tuesday – Half Price Bottles of Wine

Free Glass of Wine with pasta on Wednesday Raw Bar open all day, every day!

Happy Hour specials Monday-Friday 3-6 pm Watch for the patio grand re-opening in April!

COME CELEBRATE WITH US Book your Christmas or New Year’s Eve party!

1410 Highland Ave Cheshire, CT (203) 250-7037 • 250-7102

K.T. Baxter ’ s

On Sleeping Giant Golf Course • (203) 230-4640

www.auntchilada.com

728 North Colony Rd Wallingford

“Converted 19th century Farmhouse with 3 stone fireplaces and large deck overlooking Sleeping203-269-2800 Giant Golf Course”

Holiday Parties & Catering

HAPPY HOUR

Mon. - Fri. 4pm-7pm

Buy 1 Appetizer Get 1 FREE

NFL SUNDAY TICKET

25¢ Wings

$5 Domestic Pitchers