ETN Holiday Guide 2014

Guide 2014 Easy gifting

Stores make giving simpler with wish lists Page 14

MORE INSIDE Party planning Page 10 Deck the halls Page 22 Holiday makeover contest Page 20 What to wear Page 28 Shop, shop, shop Page 30

Guide 2014

Ross and Becky Walter, who moved to Whitehall in 2003, have won several awards for their décor in their Fairview neighborhood.

In addition to Luminaria, Whitehall Village holds a decorating contest each year. This snowman display at Dean and Sheryl Jacobs’ home recently won best porch.

Whitehall tradition glows on week before the event. Another volunteer is master of the map, plotting just how many materials each homeowner needs.

All of the candles will be lit simultaneously on Dec. 20 at 6 p.m., so everyone is outside sharing the moment — and often some assistance with each other.

It’s not uncommon to see a steady stream of traffic through the neighborhood that night, says resident Rita Brown, who relishes the glow of the candles in the quiet early morning hours. In fact, many people plan holiday parties for that

Judi Roth, past president of the Whitehall Village Civic Association, which organizes Luminaria and other neighborhood events throughout the year. “All the families get out and walk, street by street to see it.”

Bringing Luminaria to life is a labor of love for homeowners in this community. Stephen and Becky Woods and their children volunteer each year to package the supplies, including candles, white paper bags and nearly 200 bags of sand, which are then delivered by another set of volunteers to each doorstep the

By JENNIFER SMITH Photos by RITA BROWN

H

ere’s a holiday tradition that promises to fill you with a warm glow. For more than 30 years, homeowners in Fairview’s Whitehall Village have been lighting up the neighborhood with an annual Luminaria. The sight of 175 homes synchronized with the simple beauty of countless paper lanterns glowing up and down the street is something to behold.

“It’s just a beautiful night,” says

Great Gift Ideas

evening so their guests can bask in the glow, too.

If you do take a drive through the neighborhood, be sure to take a closer look at the homes. The neighborhood also holds an annual decorating contest with awards for best overall decoration, best door and best porch displays, to name a few.

Ross and Becky Walter, who moved to Whitehall in 2003, have won several times for their décor.

“We’re Christmas people,” says Barb Walter, who decorates a tree in each room of her home. “As soon as

one Christmas ends, we start thinking about what we are going to do next year.”

In the past, the Walters have flanked their front door with 5-foot toy soldiers and a North Pole scene complete with Santa, sleigh and a sack full of presents.

“It’s such a joyous time of year,” adds Barb Walter, “and because Luminaria is held the weekend before Christmas, it adds to the spirit.”

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Guide 2014

This is part of the holiday light display created at the Ferralli home in Fairview Township several years ago.

Kevin and Gayla DeMarco, of Whitehall, won the double door decorating contest in recent years.

Whitehall: Neighbors coordinate illumination Continued from 2T

cars that meander through the neighborhood that evening, don’t be surprised if you hear the sounds of the season, too.

The Whitehall Brass, a group of volunteer musicians wearing white gloves and Santa hats, travels the neighborhood playing carols and seasonal favorites.

Mark Kulyk, who lives in the neighborhood with his wife, Joyce, has been coordinating the trumpets, trombones, tubas and baritones for nearly 20 years. Over the

years, the group most often has included the Kulyks’ sons Nathaniel and Anthony, now 32 and 29, and their friends, as well as Mike Bacic and his son Anthony.

The music is a wonderful touch, says Barb Walter, whose guests marvel at the music during their annual holiday party. Often, parties will stop and people will come to the window or invite the group inside for a song.

Kulyk said the Brass has played in all kinds of weather — but when the air is just right, the echo of the multipart harmony is pure magic.

Gary and Marcy Goodwin, of Whitehall, won the single-door decorating contest recently.

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Guide 2014

Dining out for the holidays

By Sean McCRaCken

F

or more than 30 years, the film “A Christmas Story” embedded the clear image of what it meant to dine out on Christmas Day in the American psyche. After the catastrophic disaster of a pack of dogs devouring and destroying their turkey, the somewhat dejected Parker family sits alone at a Chinese restaurant alternatingly horrified and bemused by the odd duck that replaced their mutilated turkey.

Maybe the idea of dining out on the holiday signified some sort of domestic failure in the 1940s when that film was set, but today it’s also viewed as a welcome luxury during a hectic season. And some Erie-area restaurant operators say that latter mind-set is becoming more and more prevalent.

Dining out for the holidays “is growing in popularity,” said Mark Piganelli, manager at Victor’s Restaurant in the Bel-Aire Clarion Hotel and Conference Center. “It’s exploded over the last 10 years.”

Piganelli said the appeal of going to a restaurant on days like Christmas, New Year’s Day and even Thanksgiving Day is simple: It’s one less major hurdle to clear on already busy days.

“As baby boomers grow older, the prospect of doing a dinner for 20 or so family members is a bit

Peek’n Peak/ Contributed photo

The dining room at Peek ’n Peak Resort offers plenty of room for families to dine on holidays, a growing trend, according to local restaurant owners. overwhelming,” Piganelli said.

Tyler Simpson, director of food and beverage at Peek’n Peak Resort, said he’s seeing the same thing.

“I think it has to do with the older population,” Simpson said.

“Moms and grandmas don’t want to

do all the prep work, then the cooking, then the cleaning. We’re shifting toward convenience.”

Peek’n Peak’s restaurants will seat somewhere in the range of 600 to 700 people on Christmas Day, Simpson said.

He said their busiest holiday is actually Thanksgiving, when they’ll draw as many as 1,400 people.

In addition to the convenience, Simpson said restaurants are able to offer greater selection and quality

than most people could muster at home.

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Guide 2014

Peek’n PeAk/ Contributed photo Bel-Aire HoTel/Contributed photo

Maximilian’s at the Bel-Aire Clarion Hotel and Conference Center is open on holidays.

The smaller dining room at Peek ’n Peak resort offers plenty of room for families to dine on holidays, a growing trend, according to local restaurant managers.

Planning: Reservations are family tradition Continued from 6T

Thanksgiving, and some have pretty impressive variety.

“We’ll have three to five entrees, then a carved meat station,” Simpson said. “On top of that, the buffet will be stocked with all the holiday classics, and somewhere between 15 and 20 types of desserts.

It’s much more extensive than what you’d see at home, and it’s a little more creative.”

Both Simpson and Piganelli saw this increased demand for holiday dining as the driving force for a shift in their industry.

For years, only a small selection of restaurants remained open on Christmas and Thanksgiving, and

they were largely comprised of fast food chains. While many still close for the day, it’s no longer a scavenger hunt to find food on Christmas.

“That’s how it used to be, but now it seems like everybody is open,” Simpson said. “The industry doesn’t shut down anymore.”

In 2013, restaurant chains

including Perkins, Old Country Buffet and Buffalo Wild Wings remained open for at least part of the day on Christmas.

Those restaurants are perfect for casual dinners, but Piganelli said restaurants with more intimate settings offer something more akin to a traditional family holiday that leads to repeat business on

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Thanksgiving and Christmas.

“We get a lot of demand on Christmas from families that need to travel,” Piganelli said. “So we have some regulars we see at every holiday buffet. There are two small board rooms here that the same families book every time, and we get to be part of their holiday tradition.”

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Guide 2014

Simple, thoughtful recipes work best for holiday STATE POINT MEDIA

Kentucky Brown Sugar Pie

A

1 store-bought 9-inch pie crust, thawed if frozen 1 cup packed dark brown sugar 1 ⁄3 cup all-purpose flour 1 ⁄4 teaspoon salt 2 cups whole milk 3 large eggs, at room temperature 1 tablespoon salted or unsalted butter 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract 1 ⁄4 teaspoon cream of tartar 4 tablespoons granulated sugar

holiday feast is one meal you’ll want to ensure includes flavorful, thoughtful dishes. Unfortunately, it’s one of the busiest times of year, and sorting through recipes, especially for dessert, may get pushed down the to-do list.

There are a gazillion recipes in the world, but the lifesaving recipe for when times are crazy, that’s priceless, says Anne Byrn, food writer and author of the new, “Anne Byrn Saves the Day! Cookbook.”

A collection of crowd-pleasing recipes from her network of friends and family, Byrn’s book features this recipe for Kentucky Brown Sugar Pie, perfect for a feast, as it takes only about 20 minutes to pull together, less time than a drive to the bakery and back — and is more scrumptious than anything complicated to make or store-bought:

▀ Let eggs come to room temperature, taking them out of the refrigerator half an hour before making the pie. ▀ Transfer crust to glass pie pan if it’s in aluminum foil pie pan. If it’s not a preformed crust, fit it into a glass pie plate. ▀ Bake pie crust, following package directions, until light brown. Let crust cool on rack

while making filling. Leave oven on, adjusting temperature if necessary to 400 degrees. ▀ Place brown sugar, flour and salt in medium-size saucepan and stir to combine. Slowly whisk in milk.

Place pan over medium heat, stirring constantly until filling thickens and is bubbly, four to five minutes. Reduce heat to low and continue cooking filling until completely thickened, two minutes longer. Remove from heat. ▀ Separate eggs, placing yolks in a small bowl and whites in a medium stainless steel or glass bowl. Set egg whites aside. Beat egg yolks with fork to combine.

Add 3 tablespoons of the hot filling to egg yolks and stir well to combine. Whisk the egg mixture into the saucepan of filling. Place pan over low heat and whisk until

More information about the book can be found at www.Workman.com.

yolks are well combined and filling is thick, creamy and smooth, about two minutes.

Remove pan from heat and stir in butter and vanilla. Pour filling into baked crust. ▀ Make the meringue: Using an electric mixer, beat egg whites on high speed until frothy, one to two minutes. Add cream of tartar and continue beating on high.

Gradually add granulated sugar.

Beat egg whites until stiff and glossy and sugar is dissolved, four to five minutes. ▀ Pile spoonfuls of meringue on top of filling. Using a spatula, push meringue to the edge of crust to seal in filling. Smooth the top of the pie. ▀ Bake until meringue is lightly browned, eight to ten minutes.

Transfer to a wire rack to cool about three hours before serving.

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Kentucky Brown Sugar Pie takes less than 20 minutes to assemble.

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Guide 2014

Trim your table with Erie-made treats

By JENNIFER SMITH

P

CONTRIBUTED PHOTO

Make It Fabulous Catering co-owner Stephanie Potous-Eaker shows off a slice of peanut butter pie.

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CHRISTOPHER MILLETTE/Erie Times-News

lanning a holiday party? No need to panic.

With a little help from Erie’s epicurean elves, you’ll have a beautiful bounty on your table in no time.

Stephanie Potous-Eaker, of Make It Fabulous Catering, follows this simple formula for home parties.

“I like to think of building your table with two to three anchor pieces, like a large fruit and cheese, shrimp cocktail or big presentation of beef or salmon,” she said. “Then I like to fill in the middle with smaller bites.”

For salmon, you won’t find a better catch than Urbaniak Brothers Montreal salmon, which is smoked in house in small batches. While the smoked salmon is available year-round, it’s a huge seller at the holidays.

In 2013, Andy Urbaniak said he smoked a batch of 30 every day, seven days a week from Thanksgiving through New Year’s Eve. Offering the finest cuts of meat and seafood is a family tradition for 96-year-old Chester Urbaniak and his sons Andy and Gerry. That means you’ll not only get prime rib, whole filet, old-fashioned smoked, shankless ham, leg or rack of lamb, perch, walleye, pork and several varieties of homemade sausage, but also the expertise and assistance to make it a memorable meal.

Longtime staff members John Chilcott and Mary Trombetta will help you select the proper cut and quantity of meat and even offer recipes and suggestions for side dishes or pairings.

“It is an honor to help people and supply them with products that make the holidays special to them,” said Andy Urbaniak, who rents a 40-foot refrigerated truck to store all of the special holiday orders. “We make sure they get the best so that their holiday dinner is better than they thought it could be.”

Guide 2014

Party: Merry eating Continued from 10T

Potous-Eaker also helps hosts by suggesting recipes. “So often people just buy frozen cooked shrimp, throw it in the sink and then just put it out,” she said. “That makes for a sub-par product. Taking an extra 15 minutes to do your own shrimp boil makes all of the difference!”

Getting the recipe and preparing traditional ethnic holiday meals isn’t quite as easy. But just walk into Trawka’s Market in December, and you’ll find the line for homemade Polish delicacies winding around the store like some of their famous sausage.

Thousands of pounds of homemade Polish and blood sausage, called kiszka, are made during the holiday season, in addition to czarnina (duck blood soup), homemade kluski noodles,

pierogi and stuffed cabbage.

Ox roast, an Erie favorite, is also a simple, tasty option. You’ll find it locally at Trawka’s, Gordon’s Meat Market, Smith Provisions (also sold at Erie County Farms) and Frankie & May — all with their own recipes.

To finish off your table, you’ll need something sweet, something pretty and something to sip. No one can resist cookies from Art’s Bakery or a selection of chocolates from Pulakos Chocolates, Romolos Chocolates or Stefanelli’s Candies. Add a touch of nature with some greenery or a centerpiece from Gerlach’s Garden and Floral Center.

And finally fill your glass with a holiday brew from Erie Brewing Co. or Lavery Brewing Co. or a sweet Niagara wine in a festive red or green tree bottle from Arrowhead Wine Cellars.

Cheers!

ANDY COLWELL/Erie Times-News

Tom Walsh, owner of Trawka’s Market owner, sells homemade cranberry sweet bread, pierogis, Polish sausage and czarnina.

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Guide 2014

Classic holiday desserts you’ll love

By FAMILY FEATURES

T

he holidays are a special time of year to celebrate and connect with family and friends. From a cookie swap at work to a formal holiday dinner at home, with the right kind of recipes and a little planning, any holiday gathering can be a sweet success.

But before you tie your apron strings and grab your rolling pin, avoid the last-minute trips to the store by stocking up on baking staples like flour, butter, sugar and especially eggs.

Here are some sweet holiday recipes, including one from reader Behnken, who wrote, “This is a recipe that originated from my husband’s grandmother. They have a unique flavor from the almond and are very tasty!”

Mini Pumpkin Pies

Crust 3 cups all-purpose flour 1 teaspoon salt 1 cup vegetable shortening, cold 2 egg yolks 6-8 tablespoons ice water, divided 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice Filling 3 eggs, slightly beaten 1 can (15 ounces) pumpkin 34 ⁄ cup packed light brown sugar 1 1⁄2 teaspoons cinnamon 1 teaspoon salt 1 ⁄2 teaspoon ground ginger 1 ⁄4 teaspoon ground cloves 1 cup half-and-half Pecans and whipped cream, for garnish

▀ To make unbaked crusts, mix flour and salt in

large bowl. Cut in shortening with pastry blender until pieces are size of small peas. Mix egg yolks, 6 tablespoons ice water and lemon juice in small bowl. Add to flour mixture, 1 tablespoon at a time, stirring lightly and tossing with fork until moistened and dough just holds together. Add remaining ice water, if needed. Gather dough and shape into six 1-inch-thick disks. Refrigerate, wrapped in plastic wrap, 1 hour or overnight.

▀ Roll out each dough disk on lightly floured

surface, rolling from center to edge, to form 6-inch circle. Fold into quarters; ease and unfold into 4-inch pie plate. Press pastry gently against bottom and sides of pie plate, easing out any air.

Trim edge leaving 1⁄2-inch overhang. Fold overhang under; flute edge. Refrigerate, covered, at least 30 minutes. ▀ Heat oven to 400 degrees. ▀ Whisk eggs, pumpkin, brown sugar, cinnamon, salt, ginger and cloves in medium bowl. Beat in half-and-half. Pour approximately 2⁄3 cup into each mini piecrust. ▀ Carefully place pies on rack in oven. Bake 15 minutes. Reduce oven to 350 degrees; continue baking 20–22 minutes or until knife inserted midway between center and edge of pie comes out clean. ▀ Cool completely on wire rack. Refrigerate, loosely covered, until firm, several hours or overnight.

Garnish with toasted pecans and whipped cream.

Prep time: 35 minutes Chill time: Several hours or overnight Cook time: 35–37 minutes Yield: 6 mini pies

FAMILY FEATURES

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Guide 2014 Chocolate Peppermint Crinkles 21⁄4 cups all-purpose flour 1 ⁄4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder 11⁄2 teaspoons baking powder 1 ⁄2 teaspoon salt 2 cups granulated sugar 1 package (12 ounces) or 2 cups semisweet chocolate chips, melted, cooled 3 eggs, room temperature 1 ⁄2 cup vegetable oil 1 teaspoon peppermint extract or vanilla 1 ⁄3 cup powdered sugar, sifted 1 ⁄4 cup crushed peppermint candies or candy canes 1 ⁄3 cup granulated sugar, for rolling

▀ Mix flour, cocoa powder, baking powder and salt in large bowl.

▀ Combine sugar, cooled chocolate,

eggs, oil and peppermint extract in mixer bowl. Beat on medium speed until blended. Gradually add flour

Sugar Cookie Cut-Outs 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, room temperature 1 cup granulated sugar 2 teaspoons vanilla 1 egg, room temperature 2 egg yolks, room temperature 21⁄2 cups all-purpose flour 1 ⁄2 teaspoon salt Icing 22⁄3 cups powdered sugar, sifted 2 tablespoons meringue powder 4 tablespoons water

mixture, beating on low speed until blended. ▀ Refrigerate, covered, until firm enough to shape, about 1 hour or overnight. ▀ Heat oven to 350 degrees. Mix powdered sugar and crushed candy in small bowl. Work with 1⁄3 of dough at a time, keeping remaining dough refrigerated. Shape dough into 1-inch balls; roll in granulated sugar first and then in crushed candy mixture. Place 2 inches apart on parchment paper-lined or ungreased baking sheets. ▀ Bake in oven until lightly browned, 8-10 minutes. Cool on baking sheets 1-2 minutes. Remove to wire racks; cool completely.

Prep time: 30 minutes Chill time: 1 hour or overnight Cook time: 8–10 minutes per batch Yield: 6 dozen cookies

▀ Combine butter, granulated sugar and vanilla in mixer bowl. Beat on medium speed until light and fluffy, about 3 minutes. Add egg and egg yolks; beat on low speed until blended. Gradually add flour and salt, beating just until blended. ▀ Refrigerate dough, wrapped in plastic wrap, at least 2 hours or up to 2 days.

1 ▀ Heat oven to 350 degrees. Work with ⁄2

of dough at a time, keeping remaining dough refrigerated. Roll out dough on lightly floured surface to 1⁄4-inch thickness. Cut out cookies using cookie cutters; place 1 inch apart on parchment paper-lined or ungreased baking sheets. ▀ Bake in oven until edges are lightly browned, 8-10 minutes. Cool on baking sheets 1 minute. Remove to wire racks; cool completely. ▀ For icing, combine powdered sugar, meringue powder and water in mixer bowl. Beat on high speed until light and fluffy, 6-8 minutes. If icing is too thick, thin with small amount of additional water.

Prep time: 15 minutes Chill time: 2 hours or up to 2 days Cook time: 8–10 minutes per batch Yield: 4 dozen cookies

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Guide 2014

CONTRIBUTED PHOTO CONTRIBUTED PHOTO

Breakiron Jewelers employees dress in sports jerseys for a guys-only event.

On ladies night at Breakiron Jewelers, women try on gems and start a wish list for family members to choose gifts.

Local wish lists make shopping easy

By MARISSA ORBANEK

L

eave it to local store owners to find fun ways to take the stress out of holiday shopping.

As the holiday season approaches, Erie’s store owners are giving customers an earlier and easier start to finding the perfect gift through holiday ladies nights. While the details vary by store, these nights generally encourage ladies to leave

the men and children at home, grab the girlfriends and celebrate, while gathering some ideas and inspiration for gifts for themselves, and even others.

Just weeks after Trellis of Erie unveils its seasonal decorations during its holiday open house, the lifestyle store hosts an annual Trunk Show/Girls Night In to introduce the latest trends for the holiday season. Trellis owner Sandy Blazek says she sees 500 to 600 at this event,

which treats customers to some munchies and wine, Champagne and gift basket offers.

“The more special events that we host for our customers, the more people connect to our store,” Blazek said. “We really get to know our customers personally, so we can really get to know their personality and interests. It makes it easier for us to offer the best service. People will come in here and show us a picture of their mantel or their

dining room table and ask for us to help spruce it up. When we know their personality or their styles, we are able to do that customized service.”

Millcreek’s Heidi Fritts described it as “definitely a fun event to attend.”

“I am a shopper, so it’s a fun thing to break into the holidays and get you into the holiday shopping mood,” Fritts said. “I can put together clothes and stuff, but

when it comes to furniture and putting together a room, I am clueless. Everyone who works at Trellis has an eye for helping you and putting together things very easily without putting any pressure on you.”

Traditions offers a holiday open house in early November to kick off the holiday season, but owner Maria Minnaugh said it’s not necessarily a ➤ Please see SHOP, 15T

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Guide 2014

Shop: Ladies nights fuel sales Continued from 14T

night for men or women. “It’s a way for us to thank our customers and the community and open for the holiday season,” Minnaugh said.

“But most importantly, it kick starts the holidays and starts getting people in the mood.”

Traditions’ open house has been a tradition for the past 25 years. The event offers customers food and beverages throughout the day from local businesses, while also offering a gift. Although they don’t have a formal wish list system, Minnaugh said that some of their loyal customers requested to track a list on their computers, which they have done.

Some of these holiday nights are ways to kick start the wish list program. “Originally, it was a hurdle for women to say what they

wanted,” said Christine Dahlkemper, of Dahlkemper’s Jewelry Connection. “There was a mindset that if they said what they wanted, it would appear greedy or demanding. But now, people are realizing the benefit for the gift giver — it’s stress-free shopping for the significant other.”

Dahlkemper offers a Ladies Night Wish List Party in midNovember that kicks off the holiday shopping for customers’ significant others in a stress-free environment.

The event offers customers refreshments and light hors d’oeuvres, while inviting them to try on whatever they would like in the store and creating a wish list. After the event, their partners receive a hint card that informs them that a wish list was made at Dahlkemper’s.

“It’s a very comfortable and relaxing way for the guy to come

in and know he has hit a home run by buying her something he knows she’ll like,” Dahlhemper said. “They get to be the hero and get her something she won’t likely return. That’s a win-win situation.”

Breakiron Jewelers actually holds two different events. Its first of the season is for women, complete with a chocolate fountain and Champagne. After the women check their wish list, Breakiron offers a gift bag with special treats. This year’s event was Nov. 18.

“It’s a nice time where women come together that kind of becomes a networking event. It’s a way to catch up,” said Linda Breakiron.

“We try to do it before the holidays, before it gets too hectic.”

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During open house weekends and evenings, shoppers at Trellis can choose gifts and add them to a wish list that loved ones can use as a shopping guide.

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Sparky the Reindeer COMES TO ERIE

Sparky arrived in Erie, PA with a list of places to visit and a notebook to write down everything he learned. Santa assured him the good people of this city would help him learn what he needed to know before he could join the sleigh team: the true meaning of Christmas.

Sparky’s first stop was at Glass Growers where he found a shop full of people looking for meaningful presents for their loved ones.

He was greeted by the shop’s owner with a welcoming smile and a friendly hoof-shake.

“It’s great to have you in town,” the owner said warmly. Sparky took notes about the friendly atmosphere and spirit of giving that was so evident in the store, along with the thought and care that each shopper put into choosing just the right item.

Walking through the doors of City Hall, Sparky was impressed with how many people had dedicated their lives to public service. He was greeted by Joseph Sinnott and was introduced to Randy Bowers and Tony Pol, along with all the many employees who help keep the people of Erie safe, happy and secure. “A great team takes great service and dedication,” Sparky noted in his book.

Next up on Sparky’s list was a visit to Mason Farms, which was filled from floor to ceiling with beautiful Christmas decorations. “This is one of our busiest times of year,” said the store owner, “and it makes us so happy to be able to share the beauty of Christmas in homes and businesses all over town.” Sparky took notes about the symbols of Christmas, especially enjoying the pretty poinsettias everywhere. He sure was learning a lot about Christmas in Erie!

“What could Santa want me to learn about Christmas here?” Sparky thought to himself as he walked into Tires For Less. He introduced himself to a family in the waiting room who were on their way to Grandma’s house for Christmas when they got a flat tire.

“We’re so glad there are people willing to help us when we need it,” they said. “The garage

was about to close, but the manager said he would stick around a few minutes extra to make sure we could get back on the road.” Sparky smiled and noted how even small acts of service can make a big difference.

Sparky walked into the front doors of Mercyhurst Prep expecting to see classrooms filled with learners, but instead he heard the familiar sound of Christmas songs wafting through the air. He followed the sounds to the auditorium and joined the audience in clapping for the special holiday musical program. He was also impressed with how the students were collecting food for needy families. “School isn’t just about classroom lessons,” Sparky jotted down. “It was also about life lessons, and the students in Erie are getting a wonderful education in caring.”

For his last stop, Sparky visited St. Patrick’s Church to see how Christmas was celebrated in Erie. “For people of faith, Christmas is ultimately about one thing: honoring the birth of our Savior, Jesus Christ,” the pastor said.

“Every year, Christians come together to remember the birth of Jesus and all the wonderful lessons He teaches us.” Sparky learns that the best traditions of Christmas have their roots in deep, meaningful faith.

On his trip back to the North Pole, Sparky had a lot of time to think about what he had learned in Erie. There were a lot of lessons - about service, family, hard work, kindness, beauty and faith - and he couldn’t wait to share what he had learned with Santa.

He anxiously walked into the workshop and told Santa all about his adventures.

“Well, Sparky, I’ve got to admit I’m impressed,” Santa said. “The people of Erie obviously know what Christmas means, which is why I sent you there to learn. And it looks like I can comfortably present you with the highest honor we bestow at the North Pole. You’re officially the newest member of my sleigh team, ready for duty on Christmas Eve.”

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Next, Sparky stopped at UPMC Hamot, where the halls were buzzing with activity. “Do you mean to tell me you care for the people of Erie every single day, even on Christmas?” he asked the nurses. “Yes, even on Christmas Day. We know people

need good health care all year long, and we’re glad to help our neighbors whenever they need it.” Sparky made a quick visit to cheer up each of the sick children before taking notes and leaving for his next stop.

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o you want to be one of the elite reindeer?” Santa asked, looking skeptically at the young Sparky.

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See the answers on page 24T

Guide 2014

Shop: Get your gift list going whatever items they like. If there isn’t a wish list, we have a ton of specials that night. We try to make from 4 until 8 p.m. it as easy as possible.”

Called the Pregame Party, with Lana Fortin, of Harborcreek, the game being Christmas. and her daughter have attended Breakiron serves a spread of food targeted for guys — nachos, sausage, the ladies events at Breakiron.

“The ladies that work there make beer — and the Monday night you feel at ease and make it very pregame show on the big screens.

(The event ends in time to get home easy to shop, even if you aren’t looking for yourself,” Fortin said. for the real Monday night game.)

“I have three granddaughters, so I All of the Breakiron staffers are get some ideas for them, too. It’s a decked out in sports jerseys.

“The idea started from one of our great event, but an even nicer night out.” customers who came with his wife Fortin’s husband, Tom, has to a wine and cheese night. We attended the for-men-only parties at started talking, and he told me that he wasn’t a big fan of wine and sure Breakiron for the past three to four wanted more than cheese — and out years. Fortin and his son-in-law attend the event and always have a of that, came this pregame event,” good time. “To tell you the truth, it’s Breakiron said. “Ideally, their fun really to just to see the things girlfriends or wives have made a that they pick out, from one wish list, so they come in and pick Continued from 15T

spectrum to the other,” Fortin said.

“It also makes it a lot easier for the holiday shopping. The people at Breakiron make you feel very comfortable; there’s no pressure there at all.”

Celebration Jewelers also offers the wish list, although there isn’t necessarily a kick-start event.

According to Jessica Metzler, women will come in and pick out items. They also use the jeweler’s hint cards with descriptions of the items selected.

“Guys try so hard sometimes, and they just don’t know what the women like,” Metzler said. “This makes it easier.”

For customers, these events certainly take the stress out of shopping and get them in the holiday spirit.

CONTRIBUTED PHOTO

During open house weekends and evenings, shoppers at Trellis can choose gifts and add them to a wish list that loved ones can use as a shopping guide.

Sunday, November 23, 2014 | HOLIDAY GUIDE | GoErie.com | Erie Times-News | 19T

Guide 2014

Deck the halls with local donations

By JOLAYNE GREEN

G

CONTRIBUTED PHOTO/United Way

Children participate in the reading program sponsored by United Way.

ifts at the holidays don’t all come tied up with red bows in your home. You can give a gift to the community through donations that allow children to have books in their home, visit the zoo, help a teacher, clothe and feed the less fortunate, or remember troops serving overseas.

“The commercialization of the holiday season, unfortunately, has, in some ways, taken away the real meaning of giving,” said Laurie Root, senior vice president of United Way of Erie County. When people want to give in a way that is more meaningful, she encourages them to “look at some of the organizations that are doing

great work.”

The Erie Community Foundation helps “connect donors to causes they care about,” explained Erin Fessler, vice president of communications.

The foundation is another organization that uses a strengthin-numbers approach to get the most bang for the buck for its mission of improving the quality of life in the region. Found at www.eriecommunityfoundation. org/donate-today/, the organization is a collection of endowments operating under the umbrella of a single charity.

Donors can give to the foundation via an endowment or a straight gift, Fessler said.

Donors may search the nonprofit database for myriad

causes including scholarships and named funds for nonprofits with endowments.

DonorsChoose.org, which helps teachers, and Wishbook, which is a compiled list of projects and nonprofit grants that need community support, such as for the Erie Playhouse and Erie Zoo, are other ways to give.

“DonorsChoose is a fantastic opportunity for donors to support local school projects,” Fessler said.

The United Way is a one-stopshopping destination for charitable giving, as it pools money to fund many organizations that help more than 100,000 people every year.

“The holidays are a time of ➤ Please see CHARITY, 21T

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Guide 2014

Charity: Give to nonprofits or volunteer efforts Continued from 20T

year when people are struggling to find a gift,” Root said. “It’s an opportunity to give a gift in honor of someone or even in memory of someone and really give a gift of giving back. I think a lot of people really like that, both the giver and receiver.”

Many agencies are supported by the United Way. The United Way’s Imagination Library gives the life-changing gift of reading by providing free books monthly to all young children in Erie County so their parents or guardians can read to them at home. Donors give $30 annually, which sends a book every month to children from birth to their fifth birthday.

If time is more available than money, there is no shortage of volunteer opportunities, but finding

what matches people’s time and talents can be a challenge. The United Way collaborates with the Nonprofit Partnership on www. getconnectederie.org, a central database where volunteers and organizations can create custom profiles and find options that meet their availability and interests.

Several local groups work for soldiers. Project Support Our Troops, sponsored by the Welcome Home Association, Post 52 of Meadville, has shipped donations in care packages to active duty military around the globe for 16 years. Items most requested are candy, gum, store-bought cookies, lip balm, beef jerky, tuna/cracker packs, snack-size trail mix and sunflower seeds, lunch-size fruit cups in cans. The group averages 100 boxes per month, said Kim Lengling, a veteran and co-chairwoman of the

organization with Laurie Davis, which costs around $1,100 to $1,200 each month.

“The reason we do this? Because we care and because the men and women who defend our way of life, our freedoms, deserve at least that much; a monthly box with goodies and letters from home reminding them that they are not forgotten and that they are thought of and prayed for each day,” Lengling said.

Volunteers also work on Christmas packages Dec. 2 and 3 at 6 p.m. at Post 52 on Dunham Road.

For more information, call (814) 724-9099 or e-mail post52@ zoominternet.net.

Toys For Tots is a tried-and-true place to give. For 67 years, the U.S. Marine Corps Reserve has provided toys, books and gifts to children.

Toys for Tots in Erie will be collecting toys until Dec. 11. Drop-

off locations are listed at http://eriepa.toysfortots.org. “We encourage anyone to visit our national sponsors at Toys R Us to purchase and donate a toy there,” said Staff Sgt. William Hodges, Toys for Tots coordinator. “Every child deserves a little Christmas.”

Donations to Heifer International provide livestock, trees, seeds and training in environmentally sound agriculture to families in more than 30 countries, including the United States. Find out more from Heifer International at www.heifer.org.

There are many opportunities to give, but intentions fall short during a busy season. Never fear, though, anyone out and about during the next month is sure to hear a bell ringing at some point and spot the iconic red kettle of the Salvation Army annual campaign since 1891.

In the Know United Way of Erie County 456-2937 www.unitedwayerie.org www.getconnectederie.org Erie Community Foundation 456-4965 www.eriecommunity foundation.org Project Support Our Troops 724-9099 post52@zoominternet.net.

Toys for Tots http://erie-pa.toysfortots.org Heifer International www.heifer.org Salvation Army www.salvationarmyusa.org

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Sunday, November 23, 2014 | HOLIDAY GUIDE | GoErie.com | Erie Times-News | 21T

Guide 2014

Decorate with color

By SUE SCHOLZ

I

t’s time to get the boxes of Christmas decorations from the attic or basement. If you feel some of your decorations look old and stale, there are some new trends that are really classy, sparkly and fun. Whether or not you are going to add some new touches to your traditional decorating, start a new color scheme or add a theme tree, there are plenty of locally owned shops that will help you.

Allburn Florist

CONTRIBUTED PHOTO

Faux birch sticks, birch deer and candles are popular items at Gerlach’s.

Melissa Roberts and Chris Ehrman, siblings and co-owners of Allburn Florist, 1620 W. Eighth St., have many vignettes of different decorating schemes for Christmas

at their large shop. “There are two extremes in current trends this year.

One is very rustic, very minimal, using lots of burlap. There are burlap ribbons and burlap-covered flowers and vases. Natural items like pine cones go well with the burlap. The other trend is super sparkly, lots of glitz, glamour and metallics,” said Roberts.

Ehrman agrees with Roberts.

“You can update what you have by adding some new touches, like a burlap ribbon bow and a berry spray. You don’t have to start from scratch,” he said.

“This is also the time that people like to bring out their collections and display them for the holidays. Snowmen, especially, are placed all through the house, and they can be either rustic or sparkly,” said Roberts.

Gerlach’s Garden and Floral Center Gerlach’s Garden and Floral Center, 3161 W. 32nd St., has many themed trees in its showroom.

“What’s trendy this year are several things. Glitzy and showy.

Extra big is in, with bigger than normal bulbs, ornaments and lights. Snow covered anything, the flocked trees. On the other side is anything birch — like branches, candles, deer and ribbons.

The traditional look is always in — the style you had growing up.

Peacocks and the peacock colors are hot — the purples, greens and blues,” said Linda Kroto, floral and gift manager. ➤ Please see DECOR, 23T

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Guide 2014

Decor: Let it snow in many colors Potratz Floral Shop and Greenhouses Inc. Melody Potratz is the owner of the eponymous floral shop at 1418 Buffalo Road. There are many rooms decorated for Christmas.

“Sparkly is in. If I have a sparkly snowman versus a nonsparkly snowman, that sparkly one will sell and the non-sparkly one will sit on the shelf. The candy theme is popular, with teals, pinks and lime greens.

Elves are very popular — they’re whimsical and fun. A new tradition is having a kids tree — the kids put an ornament on the tree every day, like an advent calendar,” Potratz said.

“The platinum color scheme

is really popular. It’s nontraditional and really classy — formal and whimsy at the same time. Beachy is hot — both types: the colorful, beach glass colors of blues and greens and the driftwood naturals. You can perk up a traditional tree and wreath by adding some sparkly picks among the branches,” Potratz said.

Traditions Unlimited “A current trend at our store is family heritage — celebrating your culture. People can have a German, French or Italian tree.

We have menorahs for the Jewish faith. Our city has many naturalized citizens, and they are very proud of their heritage,” said Maria Minnaugh, owner of Traditions Unlimited, 1608 W.

Eighth St. “I see people going back to the more traditional decorating. People don’t have time to put up large villages.

What people are doing now is decorating their chandeliers with garlands and ribbons. Last year two ladies actually brought in their chandeliers for us to decorate,” said Minnaugh.

Trellis Sandy Blazek is the owner of Trellis of Erie, 1101 Peninsula Drive. Her store is wonderfully decorated with trees, centerpieces and wreaths for the home.

“Different themes, like glitz and glamour and silver and gold, are popular. Different color trees like white, champagne and even black are

popular, and also aqua, rust and brown,” said Blazek.

“We are seeing that people have the traditional tree with the kids’ handmade ornaments on it in the family room but now they are putting up a second or third tree in the living room or den and having that be a theme tree, like a nativity, travel or bird tree.

Ethnic trees are popular. I’ve seen a French tree with an Eiffel tower as the tree top. We have a Scandinavian tree with just red and white ornaments on it — very crisp. Another popular one is our Williamsburg tree decorated with fruits,” Blazek said.

Whatever your decorating style, from whimsical elves to sparkly platinum, enjoy making your home warm and welcoming for this Christmas season.

CONTRIBUTED PHOTO

Peacocks in jewel tones of purples, blues and greens work as garlands.

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Continued from 22T

Sunday, November 23, 2014 | HOLIDAY GUIDE | GoErie.com | Erie Times-News | 23T

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Guide 2014

Holiday gift ideas gardeners will love

T

he holiday season is a great time to shower the gardeners in your life with the tools they need to grow beautiful and delicious things. Whether your recipient already has a green thumb or is just thinking about starting a new hobby, there are some great gift ideas out there for every level of gardening interest and skill.

Herb and vegetable cookbook Everyone gets stumped from time to time when planning meals or figuring out how best to incorporate a fresh harvest into tonight’s dinner.

Consider gifting a little inspiration. Any vegetable gardener will appreciate a great cookbook that focuses on cooking with fresh herbs and vegetables.

There are many options — from cookbooks that focus on vegetable side dishes to vegetarian ones where veggie main dishes take center stage.

Indoor gardening Why only grow tasty vegetables and beautiful flowers part of the year? For the year-round enthusiast, consider an indoor garden. For example, the Miracle-Gro AeroGarden is a soil-free garden that grows herbs, vegetables, salad greens and flowers five times faster than plants grown in soil. Because it uses advanced hydroponics to create an ideal environment for healthy growth, your gift recipient won’t need expertise for a successful garden to thrive.

Plants grown in an Aerogarden receive an ideal balance of water, air

and liquid nutrients packed with calcium, iron, magnesium and other key minerals. It also features a control panel to tell you when to add water, eliminating some of the trickier guesswork.

Many of the seeds provided are heirloom varieties, and the company sources organic seeds when possible.

More information about indoor soilfree vegetable and flower gardening can be found at www.aerogarden. com.

Bird feeder Help your favorite gardener attract pollinators with a unique bird feeder. If you’re crafty, consider making it yourself, or use an online marketplace.

There are plenty of gifts that support a new or lifelong, yearround gardening habit.

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Sunday, November 23, 2014 | HOLIDAY GUIDE | GoErie.com | Erie Times-News | 25T

Guide 2014

Holiday trends: Hair, makeup and nails

By BetH BRowN The magic of the holiday season is here. As you hustle and bustle to prepare for the holidays, keeping track of your social calendar can be a full-time job.

Whether you are going to your company party, a holiday gala or just hitting happy hours with the girls, we all want to glam up our look this season. Here are some trends that are easy and fun to make you look and feel fabulous.

Hair’s the best part BRIAN FIJAL/Contributed photo

Danielle Rose shows that lavish lashes and red lips can be a great combo for your holiday look.

Edna Siegel, owner of Panache, said she and her stylists are seeing a trend toward leaving long hair

behind. Clients are going to mid-length and short styles with much more texture and bangs. Color techniques like ombres and balayage are still popular, but with darker colors and richer tones.

Blurred lines is the new hair color trend happening this season. This new technique by Redken hit Ambridge Rose Spa & Salon this fall and is sure to be as big a hit as the song we couldn’t stop singing. Char Szymanowski, owner of Ambridge Rose Spa & Salon, had her stylists trained by Redken to perform this new highlighting technique. This service is faster than traditional highlighting because it is applied with a brush to blur two colors

together to create a multidimensional look. This allows stylists to use their creativity by using traditional colors for soft and pretty or to go strong and trendy with the bright hues popular now.

Even if you don’t blur the lines, you can choose colors and techniques this season starting with red carpet shades of vibrant blues, purples and pinks. These offer a range of intense and versatile shades depending on the look you are trying to achieve. If you can’t go crazy with color because of your job, try “hiding the color.”

Peek-a-boo highlights are strategically placed spots that reveal the color with a toss of the hair, so subtle yet trendy. Bright ends could be

great if you wear your hair up day-to-day but reveal your bright ends after work when you are out on the town.

Some other hot hues include mahoganies, chocolates and the new beachy winter look. If you still love your sun-kissed look, update if for the winter with the same look in some darker hues. You can also change up your ombre to sombre, a softer version of this hot trend.

What if you love your color but need a new style? Think clean, classic and chic. Old Hollywood is in with classy amped-up looks including braids, buns, knots and curls.

These looks also inspire hair

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Beauty: Add some personal sparkle accessories — both popular this year. Glam pins and bohemian-chic headbands can glam up any look.

Simple is also in. How about a blowout? Whether you sport a short chic style or long locks, a blowout can make you feel like the belle of the ball. Blowouts are a terrific option for special events because most of us hate doing our hair and you can typically get a few days out of a good blowout.

Red-carpet makeup Treat yourself to a facial or lunchtime peel in advance of big events to give dull winter skin a radiant boost. Start with flawless foundation or tinted moisturizer, then use powder or liquid highlighters to illuminate your cheekbones, browbones and

eyelids. Remember to use highlighters sparingly; too much is obvious and overdone. The key is blend, blend, blend.

Amanda Paproski, lead makeup artist at Panache, said glitz is definitely in this party season.

Vintage looks with a modern twist work here, too. She is seeing a softer smoky eye with different textures and finishes for eyeliners.

Golds, silvers and bronzes will glam up any everyday look.

If you want your eyes to pop, try liquid or gel liners in blue, emerald or purple. If you still like brown or black liner try a ’60s cat-eye look or line your lower waterline. This ’80s staple is making a comeback.

Enhance your lashes with strip lashes or individual lashes. Look for lashes enhanced with silver, gold or rhinestones.

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Halle Moona shows that a blowout can add volume to your hair.

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Guide 2014

Beauty: Nail great looks with colorful manis and more Continued from 27t Don’t forget your brows — they frame your eyes. Statement brows are in. Fix yours with a great brow arch. Then check out all the new gels, pencils and powders dedicated to making your brows look full yet natural.

Lip color is full spectrum this season from nude to reds, so have fun with them. When choosing nude color, consider your natural lip color, as nudes are meant to give you a hint of color. Generally, peach nudes look good on fair skin, caramel is good for medium skin and golden brown works on darker skin tones. Reds are trickier, but the same general rules apply. Your skin tone determines whether you should choose a red that has blue or orange undertones. Red hues incorporate hints of plum,

raspberry, pinks and corals; you can certainly find shades that fit you. Remember with any of these colors you have the options in lipstick, which is usually bolder, and glosses which will give you a toned down look.

If these trends are challenging to your cosmetic abilities, schedule a makeup application at a local salon or department store to try new shades and get some new ideas.

Polished from head to toe It’s time to finish your look with a perfect mani and pedi. A holiday red can never fail on your toes. This is a way to incorporate red if you don’t like to wear red clothing. Even if you toes aren’t making an appearance, a pedicure will make your feet feel great for all the extra events you

are attending this season.

A manicure is a must for a polished holiday look. Glitters are hot this season. If you don’t like the all-over glitter, just do the ring finger nail. Paint the ring finger on each hand in complementary or contrasting color; that’s where you can pop glitter or a color you wouldn’t normally wear. Coffee, caramels and cinnamon colors are the comfort food of nail polish.

French manicures with a twist are also everywhere. By using contrasting colors, glitter and ombre looks, you can create festive French manicures for any event. Reverse manicures have become very popular. Check out Lena’s Salon and Spa or many others that offer gel manicures for longer-lasting results.

Here’s to a happy, healthy and trendy 2014 holiday season.

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A reverse French manicure is always in style.

Come Home for the Holidays With Your Erie Phil NEW! Holiday Pops Matinee Saturday, December 6 2 PM Warner Theatre A shorter afternoon performance of Featuring Jenny Oaks Baker Kate Amatuzzo Erie Philharmonic Chorus Young People’s Chorus of Erie Kid-friendly activities in the lobby beginning at 1 PM

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Gems of advice for what to buy, wear this season

H

CHRISTOPHER MILLETTE/Erie Times-News

Jewelry shouldn’t overpower its wearer.

ere’s one of those articles you want to cut out and give to your significant other. Valerie Weaver, of Park Lane, has a lot of expertise in buying, selling and wearing stylish clothes, jewelry and accents.

Here are her tips for choosing clothing and jewelry that fit our loved ones this holiday season.

1. Don’t let your fashions and jewelry overpower you.

Buy everything to fit your size. Necklaces, earrings, bracelets and more should be in proportion to your size.

Prints might be overpowering for a smaller woman, but look stunning on a larger woman.

2. If you are short or petite, wear shorter necklaces.

3. If you are tall, you can carry off the big and bold.

4. Choose earrings that frame your face and compliment your face shape.

If you have a long face,

choose round earrings. If you have a round face, choose longer earrings.

5. Use wish lists. If you know you really want something, go pick it out

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Guide 2014

7 things shoppers need to know right now

By JOHN EWOLDT and KAVITA KUMAR Star Tribune

closed on Thanksgiving may start being rewarded for waiting,” he said.

S

‘Frozen’ madness

o, what’s hot this year? And what changes should shoppers expect during the busiest time of the year? Here are nine things to watch:

Thanksgiving shopping The controversy begins with nearly one-third of shoppers venturing out on Thanksgiving evening last year, according to the National Retail Federation.

Dave Brennan, marketing professor at the University of St. Thomas in St. Paul, Minn., and co-director of the Institute for Retail and Excellence, said many shoppers will stay away. “Retailers such as Costco and Nordstrom that stay

The Elsa doll from the hit Disney movie “Frozen” is expected to be one of the hottest toys this holiday season. Not only that, but retailers are selling lots of other stuff related to the movie.

Target, for example, is selling hundreds of items related to the movie, including 60 that are exclusive to the retailer. A “Snow Glow Elsa” doll, available widely, plays a number of songs from the movie, including “Let It Go.”

Faster delivery This is the year brick-and-mortar retailers are striking back against

Amazon by providing faster options to get items to customers’ homes.

More retailers have begun shipping items directly from stores — instead of from fulfillment centers thousands of miles away — in order to get to customers more quickly.

Meanwhile, Target, Wal-Mart, Macy’s and Amazon are testing same-day delivery in select markets.

And many retailers now allow customers to buy online and pick up in a store.

Free shipping Target announced in October that all online orders receive free shipping through Dec. 20. But experts don’t expect the idea to be widely copied. “Most merchants are going in the other direction, like Amazon raising its free shipping minimum to $35 from $25,” said

Luke Knowles, founder of Freeshippingday.com.

Firms like Nordstrom, Neiman Marcus and Reebok, already offer free shipping all the time. And consumers can get free shipping from more than 1,000 merchants on Dec. 18 at freeshippingday.com.

Data breaches Every retailer wants to avoid the nightmare Target experienced in 2013 after a massive data breach lowered sales a few days before Christmas. Since then, a number of other retailers such as Home Depot, SuperValu, and Neiman Marcus have suffered similar attacks.

A recent report from CreditCards. com found that 45 percent of Americans are likely to avoid stores like Target and Home Depot this holiday season because of their

breaches in the last year.

Price match, naturally Price-match policies are a winwin for consumers and retailers.

Consumers like stores that price match because it makes them feel good about where they shop.

Retailers like price matching, but most retailers won’t match specials on Black Friday weekend or Cyber Monday.

Wish lists Those lists to Santa are getting app-ified. Target is rolling out its own Wish List app. Best Buy is enhancing its wish list section on its website and through its app. And there are a number of other apps out there such as Wishybox and Wishlistr.

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