It’s better to give than to receive, so they say, and if that’s true, then this is the month to do it. Thanksgiving may be the star of November, and Amy Dion takes a look at those traditions, but it’s also the start of the shopping season for many. Cara Connelly provides a great guide to consignment shops and Laura C. Monteiro offers some Black Friday tips. Does all this talk of the holidays give you the blues? David M. Prentiss suggests that the Narrows Center for the Arts in Fall River may be the best place for you to go this month. Brian J. Lowney discovers a cancer care center that also is a great showcase for local art, and in addition to the sights and sounds of the season, Alton Long suggests taking time to smell the wine. Plus there’s a look at the innovative plan to transform one of Somerset’s old power plants, tips on buying dogs, and advice for entrepreneurs.