Holiday Gift Guide 2020

HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE

Great local gift ideas for everyone on your list

A SPECIAL SUPPLEMENT TO The Farmville Herald The Kenbridge-Victoria Dispatch The Charlotte Gazette

NOVEMBER 2020

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The advantages to shopping local

esidents of a given town or city are often encouraged to support local businesses by looking to these firms to fill their needs. Small businesses are not just integral parts of communities, employing millions across the country, they also are operations that fund the very communities they serve.

Efforts to promote shopping local appear to be working. According to Commonwealth Financial Group, over the last several years there has been a shift in consumer purchasing behavior marked by a preference among consumers to support locally-owned

shops and stores over big-box retailers and even online shopping.

The following are some key reasons why shopping locally not only benefits small business owners, but also the communities they call home and the customers they serve.

• More money stays in the community: According to the American Independent Business Alliance, for every $100 spent at a local business, $68 remains in the community. Conversely, only 43% of every $100 spent at a chain retailer stays in the community.

• Job creation: The Business Alliance for Local Living Economies says

local businesses create the majority of economic growth. They employ millions of Americans by creating roughly two-thirds of private sector jobs. Local business owners also tend to hire people who represent the demographics of the communities where the business is located, which may include historically underserved populations.

• Diversity of products: Local stores tend to diversify their products and services to meet the needs of the local communities, whereas chain stores often stock their shelves based on national demands.

• Personalized service: A small business owner may be more inclined to go to great lengths to make customers happy because the long-term success of the business depends on customers becoming repeat customers.

• Personal connection: Knowing the people behind a business facilitates a connection not easily achieved with other companies. Customers may celebrate when a favorite business succeeds and look to spread the word about that business because they feel like they played a positive role in its success.

Shopping locally has gained mo-

3 mentum and is fueled by the many advantages to supporting local businesses.

“I think it’s important to shop local because you are supporting businesses that care about their communities and the people in them,” Penny Osborne, manager at The Farmer’s Daughters in Rice, said. “Local businesses donate thousands of dollars to support sports teams, fire departments, schools, churches, civic organizations and many fundraisers throughout their communities. Local businesses strive to give every customer the best customer service possible.

Without our customers we don’t have a business. Every purchase is greatly appreciated!”

And in a year where so many businesses have been heavily impacted by the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, shopping local this season is a great way to show support for small businesses. “’Tis the season to start shopping for the Holidays,” Anne Tyler Paulek,

executice director of the Farmville Area Chamber of Commerce, said.

“Though shopping trips might look a little bit different this year, the holidays still offer a wonderful opportunity to shop locally for unique gifts to share with loved ones near and far. Our businesses continue to work hard each day to keep your shopping experience safe.

“One-of-a-kind shopping experiences can be found this holiday season in Farmville. Red Door 104 is offering gift shopping and wrapping appointments. Stop into the Vintage Antique Shack, Penelope’s and Talley Jewelry to pick up gifts for under the tree. And be sure to visit Rochette’s Florist and B & M Greenhouse to find the perfect seasonal plants to add the finishing touches to your home or office.

“By shopping local, we help support what keeps Farmville special.

Now, more than ever, it is so important to support our local businesses and continue to sustain our vibrant town and beautiful Main Street.”

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Have your holiday party virtually

oliday parties are a tradition at many businesses.

A 2019 survey from the outplacement services firm Challenger, Gray & Christmas found that 76 percent of companies planned to hold holiday parties in 2019.

As popular as holiday office parties may be, few businesses are likely to gather in person this holiday season as the world continues to confront the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic. Social distancing guidelines may put many holiday office parties on indefinite hold, but there are still ways for employees to gather this holiday season.

Virtual meeting apps like Zoom have helped many businesses stay connected during the pandemic, and there’s no reason why the same platform cannot be uti-

lized when hosting virtual office parties this holiday season. While it might not be the same as planning in person holiday office parties, planning a virtual office get-together can still capture the spirit of the holiday season.

• Encourage festive backgrounds. Backgrounds have taken on special meaning as people limit their interactions to video calls. Virtual holiday party organizers can encourage employees to decorate their backgrounds in traditional holiday colors to give the virtual party an authentic holiday feel.

• Send special care packages to employees. Various companies have helped make virtual happy hours more unique by offering virtual happy hour kits, and such kits can be created and shipped to employees with a holiday theme in mind.

4 Such kits may include snacks, the ingredients necessary to whip up special beverages like eggnog and even some party favors. Company presidents can then propose a toast during the party and express their appreciation to all the hard work employees have put in during what’s proven to be a very challenging year.

• Take the day off. Holiday office parties often take place after office hours. Since that might not be doable when everyone is working from home, host the virtual holiday party on a company-wide off day. Schedule the party for midday and then encourage everyone to hang around on the video call and chat for as long as they’d like. Such calls can be a great time for everyone to catch up and unwind

without having to worry about going back to work once the call ends.

• Cater the party. Dinner is often served at traditional holiday office parties, and while it may require some logistical maneuvering, employers can still provide employees with meals. If employees all live in the same general vicinity, arrange for individually prepared meals to be delivered to their homes. If employees are more spread out, employers can offer to reimburse them for meals they eat during the virtual get-together.

Office holiday parties will likely go virtual this year. While that might not be how employees prefer to get together and celebrate, there are many ways to make such gatherings memorable and festive.

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illions of people across the globe have a passion for hunting. When the time comes to find gifts for the avid hunters in your life,

Great gifts for hunters indulging their passion for the great outdoors can make for the perfect present.

Hunters come in all shapes and sizes and from all walks of life. When

shopping for gifts for hunters, it can be advantageous, particularly for consumers who don’t hunt, to think of the ages and experience levels of their loved ones and then go from there.

YOUNG AND/OR INEXPERIENCED HUNTERS Many areas have minimum age requirements for hunters, and nearly every region requires hunters to take

When shopping for gifts for hunters, it can be advantageous, particularly for consumers who don’t hunt, to think of the ages and experience levels of their loved ones and then go from there.

courses on hunting safety before they can apply for hunting licenses.

Financing such educations can be an ideal gift for young hunters, ensuring they will have a strong foundation in firearm safety and other important aspects of hunting before they come of age and go on their first hunting trip.

A two-way radio makes another great gift for young hunters, espe-

6 cially who don’t yet have their own phones. Even those that who have phones may find it more fun to speak with their fellow hunters over their special radios than on the phones they use every day.

Gear, which can include everything from attire to knives to compound bows and more, also can make for a great gift for young hunters or those just learning the ropes. However, consumers buying for youngsters who aren’t their own children should first consult the child’s parents to determine their readiness for certain gear.

Rebel Sporting Goods in Keysville is a strong local option for someone searching for gift options for hunters of all ages, including the young ones.

“For the young and older or experienced hunters or outdoorsmen, everybody loves to shoot a bow,” Rebel Sporting Goods Bow Tech/Clerk Mike Gravitte said. “We’ve got bows that range from young youth ages all the way up to the experienced archer, (and we have) what the experienced archer and hunter wants, as far as arrows and broadheads.

“We also carry youth and adult-size firearms, anything from the smallest Crickett single-shot .22s up to your standard shotguns, rifles,” he added.

“We also carry your everyday fishing supplies, everything you need from catfish to crappie and brim and everything. We have live bait, minnows and worms up here also.”

ESTABLISHED HUNTERS Established hunters who have strong passions for the sport may already have everything they need.

And even those that don’t may prefer certain manufacturers. It can be difficult to learn of such preferences without speaking directly to a loved one, which can spoil the surprise.

In such instances, consider gifting a hunting experience. Finance a trip to a hunting ground a loved one wants to visit but never has. Go along for the trip and you might just develop your own passion for hunting.

Some additional gifts that can be great for established hunters include a rifle case; ammo cans; a bore guide, which hunters use to

clean their rifles; camping gear; headlamps; and other items hunters routinely use that could be in need of an upgrade.

“We offer a pretty wide selection of gun safes,” Gravitte said, including those made by Brown Safe. “And we also have a gunsmith that’s here on Tuesdays and Fridays.”

Of course, one of the best reasons to choose a hunting-related gift for the family outdoorsman is it might compel them to share their bounty when they return home from a successful trip. A cookbook that offers tips on butchering in addition to recipes can make for the perfect gift, and one that the whole family will ultimately enjoy at the dinner table.

1822 Greenhouse Rd., Farmville, VA 23901

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Teach children the art of giving back

hildren can learn about the to an organization in need. Children also importance of giving back at may work with their schools to have a an early age. collection box on campus and encourYoungsters who become age other families to donate. accustomed to volunteering and sup• Participate in a “walk” or “run.” porting charities may be more inclined Walks or runs for a cause are popular to continue doing so as they get older. events in which participants solicit Parents magazine reports that the pledges tied to their performances. number of parents with young chilWhile these are traditionally group dren who are volunteering and getting efforts, COVID-19 may change the way involved has increased in recent years. future walks are organized. Participants As family schedules continue to be may be able to do a walk or run on busy, charitable work done as a family their own and still raise funds for local unit can be an ideal way to spend time charities. together and engage in activities for the • Be a buddy. Children can be paired greater good. up with a senior at a nursing home, a Kids can get involved in many different child at a children’s hospital or even a charitable efforts. Quite often children kid who is new to the neighborhood and are forward thinkers and innovators and may have their own unique ideas in regard to volunteering or charitable work, but the following are some ways kids can get involved in giving back.

• Donate food. Children can easily gather food to donate to a food pantry in the area. Set aside a bag to donate and pick one item for the donation bin each time the family visits the supermarket. When Pairing a young person with a senior citizen is great way the bag is full, deliver it for children to give back this holiday season.

hasn’t yet made school friends. Companionship can be a great gift.

• Get involved in a cleanup campaign. Picking up litter from parks, beaches, streets, and even around school grounds can be a great foray into volunteer work. Go beyond just removing trash. Organize a planting event or remove brush and weeds as well.

• Collect funds. Children can learn the joy of charitable giving by starting small.

Keep a change collection jar at home and toss change from shopping excursions or coins they may find while out and about in the community. When the jar is filled, cash in the coins and donate to a charity of your child’s choosing.

Children can begin learning about the benefits of being charitable individuals at a young age when their parents introduce them to volunteerism and other ways to give back.

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Gifts that add colorful zest

unctional and practical, culinary gifts are always welcomed by cooks, bakers and frequent entertainers.

Fortunately, for friends and family members who also covet great design and fashion trends, there’s a plethora of quality kitchen products available with beautiful styling that’s too fun and vibrant to hide away in cabinets. Here’s a short list of colorful gift options to consider this season.

Circulon Symmetry Chocolate Bakeware 5-Piece Set: Add a sophisticated pop of color when baking savory and sweet treats with durable steel bakeware enrobed in a decadently rich dark chocolate hue inside and out. The set includes a versatile cookie pan (can double as a sheet pan), two round cake pans, a loaf pan, and rectangular cake pan.

Anolon Vesta Cast Iron 12-inch Skillet: Crafted in new Cobalt Blue and holiday-ready Paprika Red, this hard-working skillet with double pouring spouts and a long handle for added stability when lifting features a matte black enamel interior that doesn’t need seasoning and a gleaming porcelain enamel exterior that adds a punch of color and is easy to clean.

BonJour Ami Matin 8-Cup French Press: Sure to brighten up every coffee-lover’s morning, this classic, bistro-style coffee brewer is now offered in mood-boosting Lavender and Aqua Blue. Constructed from unbreakable BPA-free Tritan plastic, this durable French Press boasts a patented shutoff control built into its plunger to lock in flavor and prevent over-brewing.

Farberware Purecook Ceramic Nonstick Cookware 12-Piece Set: Go stylish

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with Lavender and Aqua or classic with Gray and Blue with this well-designed, dishwasher safe collection offered in four attractive shades. The high-heat safe ceramic nonstick surface is white and contrasts beautifully with the glossy porcelain exterior.

Rachael Ray Porcelain II Nonstick Cookware in Marine Blue: Reflecting the positive energy and refreshed feeling that’s often experienced during seaside vacations, Marine Blue is the newest hue in this colorful collection, which also offers six other choices crafted in a gradient style: Rachael’s signature Orange, Red, Blue, Green, Purple, and Dark Green.

Rachael Ray Cucina Stoneware Ramekins 4-Piece Set: For a softer color palette, this set of organically shaped, oven-to-table ramekins are glazed in four Tuscan-style hues: Cranberry Red, Agave Blue, Mushroom Brown, and Lavender. Offering endless possibilities for cooking, baking and serving, the oven-safe ramekins are also microwave-, dishwasher- and freezer-safe.

Paula Deen 3-Piece Striped Mixing Bowl Set: This charming, red-striped set of small, medium and large mixing bowls, made of lightweight and durable melamine, instantly brightens up spirits when prepping breakfast, lunch or dinner. Each bowl features a sturdy lip to ensure a secure grip and a rubberized base ring for stability.

Circulon Ultimum Cookware 11-Piece Set: This new collection of dishwasher-safe and induction-ready gourmet cookware features sophisticated

brushed metal lids and handles, and a jet black exterior for timeless design appeal. The exceptionally durable nonstick cooking surface covers durable forged aluminum for a pro-style look and performance. The comprehensive set includes all the basic pots and pans needed to whip up countless dishes on the range or in the oven.

Of course, no skillet, baking pan or mixing bowl can do its job without the right ingredients. If you’re looking to try out your new kitchen accessories, consider stopping by Pineview Bulk Food and Deli in Farmville.

Pineview carries a variety of items on every baker and cook’s list, including exactly what you need to get baking for the holidays. Customers can find an assortment of flours, sugars, organic items, candied fruits perfect for fruit cake, sprinkles, pie fillings and crusts, unique candies, eggnog and much more.

“Stop by for all your baked goods and baking needs,” Pineview owner Omer Petersheim added.

For more information on colorful holiday gifts, please visit www.anolon.com, www.circulon.com, www.farberwarecookware.com, www.bonjourproducts. com, and www.PotsandPans.com.

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Memorial gifts honor loved ones

he loss of a friend or loved one is seldom easy, particularly if a person had been suffering from an illness. Close friends and family honor the memories of their deceased loved ones in different ways. Charitable giving can be a great way to honor a loved one’s memory while helping others.

Survivors often find comfort in the knowledge that they can do good in the name of a loved one. Tributes or memorial gifts can be approached in different ways and serve as an ongoing reminder of a deceased loved one.

CREATE A CHARITABLE FOUNDATION Those who have the time and resources can establish their own charitable groups in the decedent’s name.

This method of charity requires the most time and effort, but can prove to be quite an impactful memorial.

Individuals who would like to go this route can consult with financial and tax professionals about the best way to establish a charitable group.

COMMUNITY FOUNDATION Families can focus on something their loved one cared deeply about, such as animal rescue, children, the arts, or even particular places in a community — such as a

local park. According to CarePages, a company that produces free patient websites and offers community support for those coping with illness, families can choose to have their donations funneled to specific charities or nonprofit groups. Otherwise, funds can be allocated to a third party community fund that will distribute money to various organizations no matter where they are located.

MEDICAL TRIBUTE Memorial gifts that assist medical associations or groups working to find cures or offer treatments for diseases are quite popular. If a loved one passed away due to a specific illness, it is common to ask for donations to a specific organization that specializes in information and services pertaining to that illness. Many such groups have a “donate in memory” option on their websites.

Oftentimes families are notified regarding who made memorial donations in their loved ones’ names, but the amount of the donation need not be revealed.

It is common in the Farmville area for families to make donations to fire departments or rescue squads in honor of a loved one who has passed away.

“Prince Edward Volunteer Rescue Squad (PEVRS) is

honored to receive memorial donations from members of our community,” PEVRS Executive Director Deanna Jones said. “These donations celebrate the lives of loved ones lost by contributing to our local service efforts and help provide necessary funding to ensure we are able to provide training opportunities and life-saving equipment to benefit all we care for.”

A memorial gift can also be given in the form of an annual Squad Care membership, offered by PEVRS, for individuals, families, students and businesses. As the rescue squad states on its website, this annual fee covers out-of-pocket expenses for the uninsured portion of PEVRS charges for medically necessary ambulance transportation to the hospital, including any costs for co-insurance and deductibles not covered by insurance.

PERSONAL INTENTIONS Those who would like to make a donation but cannot think of a charity to associate with their deceased loved one have a host of options at their disposal. Consider donating to a school or library, requesting materials be purchased in the decedent’s name. Otherwise, donate to a general scholarship fund, possibly at the decedent’s alma mater.

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Safety tips when giving electric toys

oungsters’ eyes light up each holiday season at the sight of toys.

Gift-giving during the holiday season is practiced by people of various faiths and backgrounds, and the joy of giving is only increased when witnessing the excited children unwrap gifts.

Though no gift giver wants to imagine children being hurt while playing with their toys, it’s important that adults recognize the dangers posed by certain toys.

Vice President/Store Manager Susie

MERRY

CHRISTMAS HOLIDAY SALES!

Hopkins of Village Arts and Crafts in Charlotte Court House said consumers should choose a gift that is easy to handle for the child’s age.

Regulations mandating the safe production of electric toys have been in place for decades, but the risk of injury remains. The Consumer Product Safety Commission recognizes that threat and offers the following tips to consumers who intend to give children electric toys this holiday season.

• Heed the age recommendations.

The CPSC notes that children should never be given toys, including electric

toys, that are made for older kids. The idea that kids “will grow into it” may entice some consumers to ignore age recommendations, but that only puts youngsters at risk. Age recommendations are the minimum age children should be before they play with a toy.

• Consider kids’ maturity levels.

Children mature at different paces, so even kids who meet or exceed the minimum age listed on the package may not necessarily be capable of safely playing with the electric toy. To determine if a child is mature enough for a given toy, consumers can consult with the child’s parents or, if buying for their own children, pay particular attention to how the child plays with age-appropriate toys he or she already has. If the child tends to gravitate toward toys designed for younger children, he or she might not yet be ready for electric toys designed for his or her age.

• Carefully and clearly explain the toy to children. Before allowing a child to play with a new electric toy, parents should carefully read the instructions and then read them aloud to their

children. Play with the child when he or she uses the toy until you are confident the youngster understands the toy and how to operate it safely. The CPSC recommends parents always supervise children when they’re using electric toys and make sure that toys that must be plugged into the wall fit snugly into the outlets. Prevent electrical shock by ensuring prongs are never exposed.

• Store toys safely. Safe storage also is vital to prevent electric toy-related injuries. Store electric toys in dry areas that are not accessible to children.

• Inspect toys regularly. Routine inspections of electric toys can alert parents to broken parts, frayed cords and/or damage to enclosures of wiring and other protected components. If parts like batteries or bulbs need to be replaced, make sure children know that only adults are allowed to replace them.

Electric toys can be hazardous to children. But parents and gift givers can take various steps to ensure kids stay safe when playing with electric toys.

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Eight great things to buy in Dec., Jan.

h the weather outside is frightful.

Rather than succumb to cabin fever, people can use the winter months as the perfect time to visit area stores and score a few deals.

Savvy shoppers understand that key items go on sale at specific points throughout the year. Learning how to shop the sales can lead to considerable savings.

DECEMBER

1. Toys: Toys are perhaps the best items to purchase in December. Apart from Christmas gifts, it is a good time of year to stock up on toys children have coveted, which can be put away for birthday presents or other occasions. Retailers tend to lower toy prices as Christmas approaches.

2. Holiday decor: Decorative holiday items also tend to be heav-

ily discounted in December. Stores slash prices on ornaments, gift wrap, artificial trees, holiday-themed baking items, and much, much more. If it has a passing connection to the holidays, chances are stores will cut prices by 50% or more once Christmas is over.

3. Televisions: It’s possible to find discounted TVs even after the Black Friday sales have come and gone.

Keep eyes trained on the circulars and jump when sales are advertised, as inventory may be limited.

4. Bubbly: Competition in the market will help drive down the cost of champagne and other sparkling wines. According to the wine resource GuildSomm, 22% of all champagne sales are run during the month of December.

JANUARY

5. Winter apparel: As the winter progresses, the amount of clothing

stock in stores starts to dwindle to free up room for a new season’s worth of attire. Starting in late December and continuing into the latter half of January, retailers are eager to liquidate their stock of scarves, sweaters, boots, and winter coats. This is a prime time to replenish wardrobes.

6. Linens: “White sales” are traditionally in January, with home goods retailers running discounts all month long. These sales generally encompass towels, bed sheets, curtains, and other linens.

7. Fitness items: January is the ideal time to purchase a new gym membership or fitness equipment since these purchases tie into New Year’s resolutions to get fit. Gyms may waive extra fees or offer discounted rates.

8. Travel and entertainment: Most people return home after the holidays, and that can generate a slow travel season afterward. The travel industry attracts new customers with discounted hotel rates and other deals. Tickets to Broadway shows and other theaters also may be discounted to encourage people to leave the house.

December and January are great times to grab steep deals on an array of products.

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It is better to give than to receive

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ersonal growth is at the heart of many New Year’s resolutions.

Few paths to positive personal growth are more noble than resolving to help others through increased acts of generosity and kindness.

According to “Psychology Today,” doing good for others, no matter how big or small the deed, feels good but also provides reciprocal benefits. The link between volunteering and lower rates of depression has been well-documented, and there is neural evidence from MRI studies suggesting a link between being generous and signs of happiness in the brain.

The following are several ways to improve oneself by being more mindful of others.

• Be aware of social issues.

Read your local newspaper to stay up-to-date on the pulse of your community as well as the world.

Educate yourself about current issues that are affecting people from all walks of life. Understanding the needs or plights of others may boost your willingness to get involved with nonprofit organizations. It also may make you more empathetic and compassionate toward other people.

• Volunteer at a charity. Find a charitable group with which you can volunteer your time. This is a great way to support a cause you believe in and makes it possible for you to collaborate with others who are like-minded, potentially helping you make new friends.

• Learn a new language. North America is a melting pot that’s home to people from many different parts of the world. Learning

a new language may facilitate interactions with fellow community members who might not speak English as a first language.

• Help someone you know. It’s commendable to want to assist a charity or a global cause, but what about people close to you who may need a boost? Whether you’re lugging boxes to help a friend move or babysitting a niece or nephew so their parents can enjoy a much-needed night out, when you help someone, those good deeds will return to you in time.

When making resolutions, people should consider goals that involve helping others. While this assistance can benefit the people who are on the receiving end of the care and attention, those who are giving of themselves also reap considerable rewards.

Highway 60, 1/2 Mile West Of Cumberland Courthouse, Virginia PHONE 804-492-4444 • www.buggytop.com