2016 IWANNA Big Boys Toys

wnc guide to

BIG BOYS

breweries

upstate sc

adventures

game day

entertaining

TOys DECEMBER 2016 IWANNA.COM

plan your next off-road + local events + shopping tips + holiday planning

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iwanna ® big boys toys

DeCeMBeR 13, 2016

wnc guide to

BIG BOYS

breweries

upstate sc

adventures

first look/

game day

entertaining

GENERAL MANAGER/PUBLISHER Patricia M. Betts

TOys

GVL REGIONAL SALES MANAGER Jay Schoebel

DECEMBER 2016 IWANNA.COM

PRODUCTION/IT MANAGER Jeff Ruminski CREATIVE DIRECTOR/CONTENT EDITOR Carrie Harder PRODUCTION David Denton, Rachel Hoeft, Debi Manfre, Randy Whittington

plan your next off-road + local events + shopping tips + holiday planning

ADVERTISING CONSULTANTS Diana Davis, Tyler Donaldson, Pam Hensley, Rick Jenkins, Rose Lunsford SALES ASSISTANTS Jayme Pressley, Leslie Manthey DISTRIBUTION MANAGERS Sam Howell, Bobby Crews A Publication of

Cover designed by Carrie Harder 31 College Place Asheville Office Park, Iwanna Building Asheville, NC 28801 828.274.8888 • iwanna.com

BIG BOYS

TOys 2016 IWANNA.COM

IWAnnA.COM

Big Boys Toys, a publication of IWANNA, has accepted contributions which may not reflect the opinion of the publisher. No portion of Big Boys Toys may be reproduced without permission of the publisher.

f e a ture s 4 | GAME DAY ENTERTAINING 6 | VETERANS TRANSITIONING TO CIVILIAN LIFE 10 | OFF THE RADAR WINTER SPORTS 14 | 18 | 19 | 22 | 29 | 42 |

WNC BREWERY GUIDE OFF-ROAD TECH ADVANCES HELPING KIDS IN YOUR COMMUNITY CROSSWORD HEALTHY HOBBIES FOR MEN UPSTATE ADVENTURES

g i f t i de a s 8| 16 | 20 | 28 |

HANDYMEN LOCAL CHARITIES ATHLETES AUTO LOVERS

35 | HUNTERS 38 | MUSIC LOVERS 42 | SPORTS FANS

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ma k e t h e mo s t of

game day entertaining Few things are more exciting and festive for sports fans than gathering with close friends to cheer on a favorite team. Although a large part of the fun involves watching the game, food and other festivities often round out the day — especially when fans gather in the comforts of private homes rather than big stadiums.

Having good food nearby is essential when hosting sports fans for a big game, and there are many additional ways to make gameday that much more fun and memorable.

and deli sandwiches. Use a slow cooker to prepare chili or stew. A slow cooker also can be used to cook ribs or hot dogs in bulk. It’s also a handy tool to prepare pork loin for pulled pork sandwiches.

Establish the atmosphere

Don’t forget desserts

Make the party area more festive by incorporating team colors.

Feature these colors on serving bowls, plates, pennants, balloons, and more. Remember to ask guests to wear the apparel of their favorite teams, hang photos of key players and keep a ball on hand so guests can toss or kick it around between plays.

Choose fan-favorite foods

Game day menu options can include anything from finger foods to more elaborate appetizers to main courses.

Games can take several hours from start to finish, so make sure you have enough food to cover the duration of the event.

Consider favorites like chicken wings, sliders, mozzarella sticks,

Desserts are an item you can delegate to guests. If you want to prepare your own desserts, small and portable items are easier to manage and cut down on the mess while fans are cheering. In addition to the requisite potato chips and pretzels, cookies, brownies/blondies, cupcakes, and fruit tarts are all small desserts to consider adding to the menu. Many items can be purchased ready-made if you want to avoid spending hours baking.

Create a viewing location

Guests will want an unobscured view of the game, and this may require moving around some furniture. The television should be located high enough so that

all guests have a clear view.

Think about moving a sofa to the perimeter of the room and bringing in folding chairs, which will allow a greater number of guests to sit. Tune several televisions to the same channel so guests moving around for food or to use the restroom won’t miss any big plays.

Game day beverages

Beer and soft drinks are staples of sports-related entertaining and may be all you need to have on hand. You can create a game-themed cocktail for guests who are not fans of beer. In addition, have water and other nonalcoholic options at the ready.

An easy way to ensure drinks are cold is to plug the kitchen sink and fill it with water and ice.

Place beverages inside and keep cups nearby. This eliminates the need to drag a cooler inside.

When the party ends, simply pull the plug and let the water drain out.

by Metro Creative Connection

B aked hot Wings makes 2 full servings Chicken wings are among the most popular gameday foods. try these baked wings from Chef Kevin Gillespie, author of “Fire In My Belly” (Andrews McMeel).

>> ingredients - 24 chicken wings, a mix of drums and flats, about 2 pounds - 1 tablespoon grapeseed oil - 1⁄3 cup sriracha chile sauce - 1⁄4 cup malt vinegar - 1⁄4 cup soy sauce - 2 tablespoons sugar - 2 cloves garlic, very thinly sliced - 1⁄4 cup scallions, thinly sliced on the diagonal

>> method ➊ Preheat the oven to 500 F. ➋ Pat the wings very dry with a

paper towel. Heat a large cast iron skillet over high heat until smoking hot. Add just enough oil to coat the bottom of the pan. Using tongs, set the wings in the pan in a single layer with the meatiest side down. Cook for 2 minutes, then transfer the skillet to the oven for 5 minutes. Carefully remove the skillet from the oven and flip the wings over. Continue baking until wings are cooked through and juices run clear, another 10 minutes.

➌ Combine sriracha, vinegar, soy sauce, sugar & garlic in a small saucepan. Bring to a boil over high heat, then turn down to mediumlow and simmer for 5 minutes.

Pour sauce into a large bowl and toss in 1 tbsp of the scallions. ➍ Carefully remove skillet from oven and, using tongs, transfer wings to the bowl and toss with the sauce.

Transfer to a platter and garnish with remaining 3 tbsp scallions.

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H elp i n g V et erans

Transition From The Military To A Civilian Career

by Greg Call Retired Marine & Veterans Program Manager at LinkedIn Like many veterans, I joined the Marine Corps after 9/11 because I wanted to make a difference. Following my service, which included a tour in Afghanistan, I faced the reality of transition back to civilian life with a mix of emotions, but ultimately, like a military operation—with a plan, support, the right tools and clarity of purpose. I was fortunate to build a new professional identity and network to advance my career. The reality, however, is that for many veterans, the path to the perfect job is not so clear.

In the next five years, close to 1 million veterans will transition from the military to civilian jobs. For many post-9/11 veterans who have spent the majority of their adulthood in the military, this may be the first time they ask themselves what it is they want to do professionally and how to go about doing it. In the military, you have a clearly defined career path with a predetermined outcome— you select an occupational specialty, earn rank and fulfill the necessary billets. Contrary to our experience in the military, transition brings choices that can feel overwhelming.

Fortunately, there are many great community, state, federal and private-sector resources available to help ease the transition, connect veterans to opportunity and put them on the path to a meaningful and rewarding job. Here are just a few that I highly recommend.

Tips & Resources for Transitioning Veterans ➊ Approach your transition like a military operation.

Identify your personal mission.

Ask yourself what really makes you come alive? What are your strengths? There are several free resources online that can help, like LinkedIn’s Veteran Mentor Network.

Veterans can use skills they learned in the military to get great jobs as civilians.

➋ Get the support you need and make a plan. Warriors Ethos is a nonprofit organization that helps veterans plan for their next career. ➌ Create your professional identity and personal brand.

LinkedIn offers a free video tutorial for veterans, teaching them how to create a profile, connect and find jobs on LinkedIn. ➍ Brush up on professional skills. If you can’t go back to school, consider taking classes online. ➎ Go where the jobs are.

Companies and the federal government are looking for veterans like you who have valuable skills. Visit Hire Heroes USA. ➏ Connect with other veterans. There are more than 2 million veterans on LinkedIn, many of whom are mentors and happy to help guide you on your job search.

Well Connected & Well Informed—The Future Looks Bright For Veterans It’s no secret that veterans have a lot to offer the workforce—we are resilient, flexible, tech savvy and thrive on working in teams. Corporations are taking notice as veteran unemployment is at a 10-year low, lower in fact than the national average. In a recent study,

LinkedIn took a closer look at the more than 2 million veterans on LinkedIn to gain insight into what happens to veterans after they leave the military.

Among the highlights: ➊ Information technology (IT) is the No. 1 industry for veteran employment. ➋ Professional networks are the No. 1 method that veterans use to find employment. ➌ Over 186,000 veterans have achieved the leadership roles of vice president, owner, partner, founder or C-level executive.

This report shows a veteran community that is in high demand and thriving in the workforce. It’s a community that has adapted and aligned its skills with high-growth industries, a community that understands the power of networking, of leaders who are rising in the ranks within companies and, most importantly, a community that seeks to help lift up our brothers and sisters who have served.

LinkedIn for Good is LinkedIn’s social impact arm, focused on connecting underserved communities to economic opportunity. To learn more, visit www.linkedinforgood. linkedin.com or go to www. linkedin.com/veterans.

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fi n d g r ea t g i fts f or

the family handyman For those people who don’t know a box cutter from a box saw, shopping for men and women who like to get their hands dirty around the house can be a difficult task. Home improvement projects are complex undertakings that often involve the use of complex tools, and novices may be lost in the proverbial woods as they look for gifts for their loved ones who can’t wait to swing hammers around the house.

Though there’s always an element of risk when shopping for gifts for loved ones, the following hints might help shoppers with no knowledge of home improvement projects find gifts that will please their favorite handyman.

Take inventory of existing tools. When shopping for the DIY enthusiast in your family, try to take inventory of his or her tool chest before beginning your search. Make note of any tools that look new, checking those off your shopping list, and any that look like they need replacing. Use your phone to photograph any unfamiliar tools that you might want to replace so you know what to look for when visiting the hardware store.

Think of what they like to do most. The family handyman may have a particular area of home improvement expertise or something he or she is especially passionate about.

Does your loved one prefer to work in the garden? Is he into woodworking and making decorative items for the house?

Think of what he or she likes to do most and then look for something that will make that hobby more enjoyable. While multipurpose tools might make for welcome gifts, something more specific to his or her particular passion may make an even better gift.

Think outside the (tool)box.

While new tools might make a handyman’s day, they are not

the only items that make great DIY gifts. Consider enrolling your loved one in an advanced class so he or she can learn more about a favorite hobby.

Or gift a magazine subscription so he or she can stay abreast of the latest DIY trends and topics. Such gifts are great options for shoppers hesitant to purchase potentially costly tools that may or may not be hits with their relatives.

Speak with a professional.

If you can’t access your loved one’s workshop or simply don’t know what he or she might want, ask a local contractor for gift recommendations. For example, a carpenter might know just what will elicit a smile from woodworking enthusiasts, while landscapers might be able to suggest items for gardening or lawn care enthusiasts. Advancements are always being made in the home improvement industry, and those people who make their living in that industry might be great resources as you try to find the go-to gift for your loved one.

Finding a gift for the family handyman might be difficult for shoppers with no DIY experience of their own. But a little forethought and perhaps some professional assistance can be just what shoppers need to find gifts their loved ones will cherish for years to come.

by Metro Creative Connection

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u p f o r s o m e t hi n g n ew ?

try these off-the-radar winter sports Winter sports like skiing and snowboarding are wildly popular across the globe. Both sports are featured in winter olympic games and enthusiasts all over can be found on the slopes any winter weekend. here are some less common winter activities to try.

While skiing and snowboarding may dominate the outdoor winter sports landscape, there are plenty of off-the-radar outdoor sports that are growing in popularity among people looking for something a little different.

snowkiting Much like snowboarding appeals to surfers and skateboarders, snowkiting has found a fan base among people who enjoy kiteboarding when the weather is warm.

Snowkiters use kite power to glide across the snow or ice.

Foil kites once dominated the snowkiting landscape, but many snowkiters now prefer inflatable kites. Snowkiting can be very dangerous, so it’s important that men and women interested in snowkiting learn the proper techniques, which can be difficult to master.

Fat biking Though its name might leave much to be desired, fat biking is growing in popularity among athletes who love riding bikes but have traditionally had to put their bikes in the garage once the temperatures dip. Fat

bikes are similar to traditional bicycles, but they come with oversized tires and wider rims that make it possible for the bikes to handle unstable terrain, including terrain

covered in snow. Mountain biking enthusiasts may favor fat biking, as the sport allows them to traverse snowcovered trails their mountain bikes are typically unable to traverse.

Ice boating For those who simply love to be out on the water, ice boating is a great way to fulfill your winter fix for sailing. Ice boats are similar to sailboats, but they are typically fitted with runners, also called skates, or skis and designed to run over frozen waters instead of through water. Ice boats tend to sail across ice-covered surfaces at high speeds, and that can make already cold conditions even colder for ice boat sailors. But many ice boat sailors find the sport is even more fun than traditional sailing.

Skijoring Skijoring may be a less accessible winter sport, as it involves people on skis being

pulled by a dog, horse or vehicle. The sport originated centuries ago in Scandinavia as a way for military members to speed up the process of sharing messages. Skijoring with dogs typically involves men or women being pulled by one to three dogs, each of which is wearing a sled dog harness (men and women wear skijoring harnesses).

Dogs are not controlled by reins, but rather must be motivated to keep moving by their own desire to run.

A single horse is typically enough for equestrian skijoring, and horses are typically guided by a rider.

Small motorized vehicles, such as snowmobiles, are typically used in motorized skijoring.

Athletes need not sequester themselves indoors when temperatures dip below freezing. In fact, there are several lesser known outdoor sports athletes can enjoy this winter.

by Metro Creative Connection

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the funkatorium

one World Brewing

green Man Brewery

open Brewing

27 Buxton Ave, Asheville (828) 252-5502 greenmanbrewery.com

20 Gala Dr #101, Asheville (828) 505-4564 obrewing.com

heinzelmännchen Brewery

oskar Blues

545 Mill St, Sylva (828) 631-4466 yourgnometownbrewery.com

342 Mountain Industrial Dr, Brevard (828) 883-2337 oskarblues.com

highland Brewing Co

oyster house Brewing Co

12 Old Charlotte Hwy, Asheville (828) 299-3370 highlandbrewing.com

625 Haywood Rd, Asheville (828) 575-9370 oysterhousebeers.com

hi-Wire Brewing

Pisgah Brewing Co

197 Hilliard Ave (828) 575-9675 hiwirebrewing.com

150 Eastside Dr, Black Mountain (828) 669-0190 pisgahbrewing.com

hi-Wire Brewing - Big top

Sanctuary Brewing Co

2 Huntsman Pl, Asheville (828) 738-2448 hiwirebrewing.com

147 1st Avenue East, Hendersonville (828) 595-9956 sanctuarybrewco.com

innovation Brewing

Satulah Mountain Brewing Co

414 W Main St, Sylva (828) 586-9678 innovation-brewing.com

454 Carolina Way, Highlands (828) 482-9794 satulahmountainbrewing.com

lazy hiker Brewing Co

Sierra Nevada Brewing Co

147 Coxe Ave, Asheville (828) 552-3203 wickedweedbrewing.com

burnsville Morganton

Asheville

Black Mountain

Waynesville Bryson City Hendersonville

Sylva

Brevard

andrews murphy

franklin

WNC is the brewing capital of the Southeast. On any given day, area beer lovers have a countless selection of locally brewed craft beers.

From dark rich porters & stouts, to hoppy golden ales, to innovative goses & sours, there is something for every beer drinker! Here’s a list of area breweries to get you started.

Andrews Brewing Co

565 Aquone Rd, Andrews (828) 321-2006 andrewsbrewing.com

Asheville Pizza & Brewing 77 Coxe Ave, Asheville 675 Merrimon Ave, Asheville (828) 575-2400 altamontbrewing.com

Basic Brewery

131 3rd Ave W, Hendersonville (828) 515-5030 basicbrewery.com

Ben’s Beer

195 Hilliard Ave, Asheville (828) 424-7580 benstuneup.com

BearWaters Brewing Co

130 Frazier St Suite 7, Waynesville (828) 246-0602 bwbrewing.com

Bhramari Brewhouse

101 S Lexington Ave, Asheville (828) 575-2204 bhramaribrewhouse.com

the BreWhoppers guide to Wnc

Blind Squirrel Brewery

109 West Main St, Burnsville (828) 536-9491 blindsquirrelbrewery.com

Blue ghost Brewing Co

125 Underwood Rd., Fletcher (828) 376-0159 blueghostbrewing.com

Blue Mountain Pizza & Brew Pub 55 N Main St, Weaverville (828) 658-8777 bluemountainpizza.com

Bold Rock hard Cider

72 School House Rd, Mills River (828) 595-9940 boldrock.com

Boojum Brewing Co

357 Dayton Dr, Waynesville (828) 944-0888 boojumbrewing.com

Brevard Brewing Co

63 E. Main St, Brevard 885-2101 brevard-brewing.com

Burial Beer Co

40 Collier Ave, Asheville (828) 475-2739 burialbeer.com

Catawba Brewing Co

62 Brook St, Asheville • 430-6883 32 Banks Ave, Asheville • 552-3934 catawbabrewing.com

Currahee Brewing Co

100 Lakeside Dr, Franklin (828) 634-0078 curraheebrew.com

ecusta Brewing Co

49 Pisgah Hwy #3, Pisgah Forest (828) 966-2337 ecustabrewing.com

flat Rock Ciderworks

305 N Main St, Hendersonville (828) 674-0154 flatrockciderworks.com

french Broad Brewing Co 101D Fairview Rd, Asheville (828) 277-0222 frenchbroadbrewery.com

frog level Brewing Co

56 Commerce St, Waynesville (828) 454-5664 froglevelbrewing.com

10 Patton Ave (828) 785-5580 oneworldbrewing.com

188 W. Main St, Franklin 828-349-BEER lazyhikerbrewing.com

100 Sierra Nevada Way, Mills River (828) 681-5300 • sierranevada.com

lexington Ave Brewery

1315 W Main St, Sylva (828) 586-6440 sneakesquirrel.com

39 N Lexington Ave (828) 252-0212 lexavebrew.com

lookout Brewing Co

103 S Ridgeway #1, Black Mountain (828) 357-5169 lookoutbrewing.com

Mills River Brewery

330 Rockwood Rd, Unit 103, Arden (828) 989-3747 millsriverbrewery.net

Nantahala Brewing Co

the Sneak e Squirrel Brewery

Southern Appalachian Brewery 822 Locust St, Hendersonville (828) 684-1235 sabrewery.com

Sweeten Creek Brewing

1127 Sweeten Creek Rd, Asheville (828) 575-2785 sweetencreekbrewing.com

thirsty Monk

61 Depot St, Bryson City (828) 488-2337 nantahalabrewing.com

92 Patton Ave, Asheville • 254-5470 51 N Merrimon Ave • 424-7807 2 Town Square Blvd • 687-3873 monkpub.com

New Belgium Brewing

tipping Point Brewery & tavern

Craven Street, Asheville (828) 333-6900 newbelgium.com

190 N Main St, Waynesville 828-246-9230 tippingpointtavern.com

twin leaf Brewery

144 Coxe Ave, Asheville (828) 774-5000 twinleafbrewery.com

upcountry Brewing Co

1042 Haywood Rd, Asheville (828) 575-2400 upcountrybrewing.com

valley River Brewery

71 Tennessee St, Murphy (828) 837-2337 valleyriverbrewery.com

Wedge Brewing Co

37 Paynes Way (828) 505-2792 wedgebrewing.com

Whistle hop Brewery 1278 Charlotte Hwy whistlehop.com Coming Soon

Wicked Weed Brewing

91 Biltmore Ave (828) 575-9599 wickedweedbrewing.com

Zebulon Artisan Ales

8 Merchants Alley, Weaverville zebulonbrewing.com

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u p s t a t e s c AR EA

giv e t he g i f t of

giving

A Chi l d’ s Hav en A nonprofit organization dedicated to transforming the lives of young children who have experienced developmental delays or behavioral challenges.

Many are victims of poverty, child abuse or domestic violence. childshaven.org

While the holidays are one of the most joyous times of the year, they can also be a stressful time for those who are struggling with family finances. Children are home from school, grocery bills may increase and general household expenses escalate as colder weather settles into the area. There are a number of area organizations that offer help to the needy and low income in our region.

Fr e e dom Within Walls

W N C A R EA

by providing children with toys and other needs. santapal.org •828-258-3230

“ S aint N i ch o las P r o j ec t”

A BCCM

(Eblen Charities) Many area organizations, businesses and individuals come together to create the Saint Nicholas Project, a program that provides Christmas gifts, clothes, food, and other items to the children and families that the Eblen Charities work with throughout the year. eblencharities.org

V i ct o ry Fe llo wsh i p W o rshi p Ce n t er VFWC operates a year round food pantry and also provides holiday assistance for families and children through it’s annual “God’s Little Angels” program.

828-243-3088.

S an t a Pal The Optimist Club of Asheville’s Santa Pal project has been helping area families since 1936

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adopts persons of all ages with intellectual or developmental disabilities. 828-253-1255 • thearcbuncombe.org

The ABCCM Crisis Ministry provides counseling, food, clothing, furniture and household items and financial assistance for rent/mortgage, utilities, heat, prescriptions, and transportation. They serve families and veterans throughout the WNC area. abccm.org •828259-5305

Manna Food Ban k

T oy s f or T ots

Our Voi ce

Western North Carolina Toys for Tots covers Buncombe, Cleveland, Haywood, Henderson,

Our VOICE, Inc. is a nonprofit crisis intervention and prevention agency which serves victims of sexual violence, age 13 through adult, in Buncombe County. ourvoicenc.org • 828-2520562.

Madison, Polk, Transylvania, and Yancey counties and distributes toys to families in need. toysfortots.org • 828-272-6043

“ Ope ration Santa ” (The Arc Of Buncombe County) An annual gift drive that

A private, not-for-profit service organization that links the food industry with over 200 partner agencies in 16 counties of WNC. A member of Feeding America, the nation’s largest domestic hunger relief organization. mannafoodbank.org • 828-2993663

Brothe r W ol f Ani ma l Re scue Brother Wolf Animal Rescue is a No Kill organization offering services to the community including free spay/neuter assistance and a pet food pantry, Behavioral Counseling and Youth Education programs to help promote a better understanding of, and respect for, companion animals. bwar.org • 828-505-3440

Ashe vi l l e Humane Soci e ty The AHS rescues, reunites, rehabilitates and re-homes more than 5,500 homeless animals each year in our community.

They rely exclusively on private donations to fund lifesaving medical and rehabilitative programs. ashevillehumane.org • 828-761-2001.

This non-profit is aimed at extinguishing hunger among children and providing enrichment programs to uplift those in challenging situations via character building, recreational, and educational programs and opportunities. freedomwithinwalls.org • 888389-4970​​​.

Loave s + Fishes This organiztion provides food through a network of emergency food providers in Greenville County. These organizations include food pantries, soup kitchens, shelter or residential programs, community centers and neighborhood distribution programs. loavesandfishesgreenville.com

Saf e Harbor A nonprofit organization providing safe shelter, counseling and advocacy for victims of domestic violence as well as leadership for education and prevention efforts throughout Anderson, Greenville, Oconee and Pickens counties. safeharborsc.org • 864.467.1177

Gre e nvi l l e Humane So ciety The largest no-kill facility in the Southeast working in partnership with community to create an environment where all animals are treated with compassion and respect. greenvillehumane.com • 864-2423626

Toys f or Tots Greenville Toys for Tots distributes toys to families in need and covers Abbeville, Cherokee, Greenville, Greenwood, Laurens, Spartanburg, and Union Counties. toysfortots.org

The Best Items to Donate During the Holiday Season In the U.S., one in seven people struggles with hunger, and many rely on food from local food banks to help feed their families. The holiday season is an especially difficult time and many of us think about making donations to local food banks at this time of year. According to food bank representatives, the following types of donations help feed hungry families the most.

Holiday Ingredients & Side Dishes • • • • •

Canned pumpkin Canned yams Cranberry sauce Boxed stuffing Dried macaroni

Shelf-Stable Protein Sources

• C anned tuna or salmon • Canned chicken or other meats • Canned beans • Dried beans • Canned soups • Peanut butter • Nuts • Canned chili • Trail mix

Pantry Staples

• R ice (especially whole grain) • Oatmeal • Pasta (especially whole grain) • Diced tomatoes • Tomato sauce • Canned vegetables • Cooking oils (such as olive or canola oil) • Flour

Your Time

• sorting donations • assisting with fundraising events • answering calls or other administrative work • cooking or providing support in cooking classes.

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t ho u g h t fu l i d eas f or

stocking stuffers While the big ticket items are always a thrill to bestow and receive during the holidays, sometimes smaller stocking stuffers are the most needed and appreciated. Here are some ideas to get you started:

Tech accessories. Gifting

tech devices? Be sure you also include all the accessories recipients need to enjoy their gifts on-the-go. From hard shell cases that offer protection from slips & drops, (as these incidents are bound to occur) to app store gift cards for quick downloading of the software needed to make the most of these items.

batteries included! Nothing

kills the thrill of receiving a new device quite like the phrase “batteries not included.” From remote-controlled cars to digital cameras, gift recipients will want to use them right away! Avoid disappointment by providing juice for all those battery-operated goodies.

Consider pairing cutting edge

gifts with cutting edge Energizer EcoAdvanced AA and AAA batteries. They are the brand’s longest-lasting alkaline battery and the world’s first AA battery made with four percent recycled batteries. To learn more, visit energizer.com/ecoadvanced.

Travel. For those loved ones who have traveled to spend the

holidays with you, consider a thoughtful gift that can be used during the journey home. From travel-sized board games to snack packs or tiny notebooks, these items will come in handy whether gift recipients are traveling by plane, train or automobile.

This year, don’t forget the stocking stuffers -- they are a great opportunity to show your loved ones just how thoughtful you are. by statepoint media

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tech news

off-road riding becomes more connected Infotainment features from the auto industry are now being customized for off-road! The new enhanced riding experience connects drivers not only to their vehicle, but to their passengers, other drivers, and friends and family back home.

G o od n e w s f or p ow e r sp ort s e n t h u si a st s :

THE PROBLEM: Off-road riding is intended to be a social experience, as most off-road enthusiasts ride with

a passenger or in a group. But the reality is that riding is often disconnected.

Being strapped into a vehicle

with a helmet makes it difficult to communicate with others; having multiple gadgets such as a GoPro, GPS and a

Getting away from it all on an off-road vehicle can be even more fun when you can be sociable with your passengers & riding buddies. smartphone is cumbersome; and capturing ride memories to share is challenging—often requiring multiple steps, including getting out of the vehicle, remembering to turn the GoPro on, and taking your gloves off to use touch interfaces.

Technology Rides To The Rescue Now, there’s a unique solution that combines a mobile phone app and an intuitive, glovetouch, weather-resistant, indash, 7-in. display.

Known as RIDE COMMAND, the system is available as an accessory for select Polaris RZR vehicles and is standard on the RZR XP 1000 EPS Velocity Blue Limited Edition. With the app, you can map rides in advance and transfer waypoints from your phone to the display via Bluetooth. You can also track where the group is without needing to actually see them— or to hang in their dust trail.

This not only helps keep you and other riders from getting lost, it enhances everyone’s overall experience by letting you leave more space between vehicles. The app will even alert you when friends are close by, and you can track and share your ride stats directly to your social feed.

There’s also seamless device control in one spot. Get text and call notifications right on the screen for easier viewing.

Listen to music either through

Bluetooth or an AM/FM radio, also on the display. To help you communicate with your passengers, there’s an accessory Sena headset connected via Bluetooth. Loading, unloading and traversing obstacles is easier as the display integrates with standard front- and rearwired cameras.

Along with being available for select RZR vehicles, the technology is also available on the Indian Chieftain and Indian Roadmaster, and enables fleetmanagement capabilities in Polaris’ GEM line of electric vehicles.

More Fun On Your Off-Road Once you’ve got your vehicle all kitted out, you may care to consider these five other ways to add to your riding enjoyment:

➊ Join an ATV club. ➋ Take lots of photos of your rides and at events.

➌ Put a video camera on your helmet for a different perspective on your rides.

➍ Try a trail exchange. Ask family and friends to recommend trails you haven’t tried.

➎ Take the latest off-road vehicle models for a test ride to see all the new technology available.

For further facts on the newest off-road technology, visit polaris.com. by napsnet.com

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how to

help kids in your community Pe opl e gi v e bac k to their communities in various ways.

Some support local charities by volunteering or making financial donations, while others may deliver meals to convalescents who cannot leave their homes.

Helping kids is a popular way to give back to your community. And helping kids is not just for parents, as young adults and older adults with no children of their own or those whose children are fully grown can give back to kids in their communities in various ways.

Coaching Youth sports leagues rely on volunteers to run smoothly.

Youth sports league coaches are not paid, so each coach is a volunteer. Inquire with your local government office about how to become a youth sports coach in your community. In many instances, no coaching experience is necessary to coach youth sports. However, prospective coaches will likely have to undergo training before they can patrol the sidelines. Such training may include everything from coaching pointers to emergency medical training and more.

Teaching Teaching school is a fulltime job, but not all teaching gigs are paid. Adults with knowledge to pass along to the next generation may want to explore volunteer teaching opportunities. Successful professionals can share their professional expertise with high school or college students through communitysponsored programs.

Amateur or professional musicians can offer lessons to youngsters interested in learning an instrument, while

writers can teach kids about writing. Volunteer teaching opportunities may be easiest to find by speaking to local boys and girls clubs or schools that offer weekend or after school programs.

Fitness Kids who are not involved in organized athletics may still enjoy exercise, which provides even more opportunities for adults to give back to the youth in their communities. For example, cycling enthusiasts can work with local youth organizations to sponsor cycling groups for kids. If hiking or kayaking is your passion, look into organizing trips to nearby state parks where kids can hike and/or kayak and learn to love the great outdoors.

Mentoring Many young people benefit from the guidance of mentors.

Mentoring can be done through an organization such as Big Brothers Big Sisters (www.bbbs.org) or through local school systems that connect professionals from certain fields with students interested in pursuing careers in those fields. Mentoring.org is a great resource for adults interested in mentoring who may not know how to get involved with helping kids in their communities.

Adults who want to give back to the youth in their communities can do so in various ways.

by Metro Creative Connection

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g i ft i d eas for the

athlete in your life The quest for the perfect gift is a familiar journey for many holiday shoppers. As any veteran shopper knows, some people are easy to shop for, while others baffle even the savviest of shoppers. But recognizing loved ones’ passions and finding gifts that suit those interests can make shoppers’ quests for the perfect gifts that much easier.

Every persons unique, and the things that drive one person may be foreign to another. But nearly every family or group of friends has an athlete in their midst, and gifting the family athlete can be both fun and easy. The following are a few gift ideas, broken down by sport, for shoppers looking to please their favorite athletes this holiday season.

THE WEIGHTLIFTER

Weightlifting is now embraced by people of all shapes and sizes. This activity is often recommended as an integral part of a successful exercise regimen, so shoppers can help their favorite fitness fanatics make the most of their weightlifting routines with a few gifts designed to do just that. Weightlifting belts can help prevent injury by supporting lifters’ backs as they workout. For

lifters who don’t tip the scales, a dip belt makes an ideal gift. Such belts allow men and women to add weight to their body when performing exercises like dips, pull-ups and chin-ups. That extra weight helps athletes challenge themselves and build strength and muscle.

Workout gloves also make great gifts for weightlifters, helping to protect their hands from developing potentially painful and unsightly calluses that often result from weightlifting.

A new gym bag is another potential gift for the family weightlifter. Such bags make it more convenient for athletes to carry their accessories, such as belts, gloves, athletic shoes, or even tablets to use while on the treadmill or elliptical machines.

THE BALLPLAYER Whether

shoppers’

favorite

ballplayers are still taking cuts at fastballs or have moved on to slow-pitch softball, these players will appreciate gifts they can put to good use on the diamond. Softball bats can be quite expensive, but the right bat can make a big difference in the batters’ box. Additional equipment shoppers can consider is a new mitt, a sleek pair of sunglasses to make watching for flyballs that much easier or batting gloves to lessen the bit of chilly air many hitters are aware of come early spring when the last of the winter weather just won’t go away.

THE MARTIAL ARTIST

Mixed martial arts is one of the fastest growing sports in the world. Thanks in large part to its increasingly strong presence on television, mixed martial arts has inspired athletes across the globe to embrace various forms

of martial arts training, and gift options abound for such athletes.

Belts, mats and striking pads can help athletes hone their skills both in the gym and at home, while instructional DVDs can help novice martial arts enthusiasts practice before finding martial arts facilities in their neighborhoods.

THE YOGI

Yoga serves many purposes, and more and more athletes have begun to embrace yoga to improve their flexibility, balance and strength. While yoga does

not require much in the way of supplies, yoga enthusiasts do need yoga mats and clothing that allows them to perform the various poses a typical yoga session demands. Holiday shoppers may even want to buy the athletes on their lists a few sessions at their nearby yoga studios in an effort to supplement their existing workouts. Even if your favorite athlete has never tried yoga, he or she might find it’s just the thing to take his or her workout to the next level.

by Metro Creative Connection

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Happy Holidays

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Christmas tidbits to put you in the holiday spirit

Here are some seasonal tidbits to share with your family and friends while you gather for the holidays.

by statepoint media

ACROSS 1. Romans’ cleansing hangout, pl.

6. Bartender’s Triple ____ 9. Legal wrong 13. Be in harmony 14. *”And to ____ a good night” 15. Fraction 16. Big dipper 17. Flying saucer?

18. To stand forth 19. *Hanukkah spinning top 21. *C.C. Moore’s character 23. *”____ the fields we go laughing all the way” 24. Actor Wilder, 1933-2016 25. Fast-food staple 28. Unpleasant road display?

30. *How many days of Christmas?

35. Pinocchio, e.g.

37. *Like Tim Cratchit 39. Iron setting 40. Like Andersen’s duckling 41. Many times 43. World’s longest river 44. Bellhop, technically 46. Fork prong 47. Malaria symptom 48. School supplies staple 50. Pale gray 52. H in HMS 53. “____ there, done that” 55. R in rpm 57. *Tournament of Roses tradition 60. *Burning block 64. Lacy neckwear

65.

67.

68.

69.

70.

71.

72.

73.

Poe’s Morgue, e.g.

Guanaco’s cousin Mountain ridge Retirement plan Cowboy movie ____ farewell, past tense Ensign, for short Small songbirds

DOWN 1. Shiny on top?

2. Lab culture 3. “Trade” without one vowel 4. Sunny prefix 5. Sowing machine 6. Author Bellow 7. *North Pole worker 8. Bring to an end 9. De Niro’s ride, 1976 10. Relating to ear 11. Classic board game 12. *Marines’ giftee 15. Checks out again at the library 20. Muse of love poetry 22. Blast maker 24. Herbalist’s bitter cure 25. *New Year stemware 26. ____ mortis 27. Churchill, Roosevelt and Stalin meeting spot 29. *Stocking stuffer 31. Tallest volcano in Europe 32. “Gone with the Wind” actress 33. Monetary worth 34. Mideast V.I.P. 36. Whiskey grain, pl.

Each year, more than three billion Christmas cards are sent in the United States alone.

Christmas carols began as an English custom called “wassailing.” Individuals toasted neighbors to a long and healthy life.

Santa has his own official postal code. It’s H0 H0 H0.

The song “Jingle Bells” was originally written for Thanksgiving and not Christmas. People loved it so much that the lyrics were changed to fit Christmas.

Solution on page 32.

38.

42.

45.

49.

51.

54.

56.

57.

Strong desires India’s first Prime Minister Sales lure *Prominent Christmas color Like directory pages Bone-chilling Relating to velum Legal prefix

58.

59.

60.

61.

62.

63.

64.

66.

In the sack Learning method Those voting “yes” *A Christmas present given on the 26th Black cat, e.g.

Needlefish, pl.

Mike Tyson’s punch Big coffee holder

Christmas trees typically grow for 15 years before they’re cut and sold. This means the trees sold today were likely planted in 1999.

Christmas was not declared an official holiday in the U.S. until June 26, 1870.

Many may be less inclined to stand under mistletoe waiting for a kiss if they knew what “mistletoe” means in the ancient Germanic language.

It literally means “dung on a twig,” for the bird who eats the berries and then leaves seeds in droppings to propagate new plants.

Before turkey, the traditional Christmas meal served in England was a pig’s head and mustard.

Male reindeer tend to shed their antlers in the winter. This means Santa’s reindeer are likely female.

Each holiday season, PNC Wealth Management calculates the costs of the gifts in the song, “The 12 Days of Christmas.” The price index for the gifts went from $12,673 in 1984 to more than $24,000 in 2011. The most expensive gift is the swimming swans.

by Metro Creative Connection

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2016 IWANNA.COM

BIG BOYS TOys T H E MA N B EH I ND

THE BEARD Every Christmas Eve, children go to bed eagerly anticipating a visit from Santa Claus. This merry

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gift ideas AUTO LOVERS - p28 HUNTERS - p35 MUSIC FANS - p38

WNC & UPSTATE EVENTS CALENDAR P. 44

gentleman is purported to visit the home of every good girl and boy, delivering gifts and cheer along the way.

Before the modern evolution of Santa Claus lived a very real and generous individual named Nicholas. In the third century,

Nicholas served as the Bishop of Myrna in present-day Turkey. He had a reputation for secret gift-giving, believing that giving should be done secretly and sacrificially in Jesus Christ’s name rather than one’s own.

Stories tell of Nicholas paying the dowry for poor daughters to enable them to get married. He reportedly put coins in the shoes of those who left them out for him. It is believed Nicholas helped to (continued on page 26)

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(continued from page 25)

restore the hope of hundreds of people in his community, making him a beloved and revered Bishop. Throughout his ministry, Nicholas fervently shared his life and fortune with others.

Nicholas continued to be revered and commemorated by many Christians even after his death. His charity and unselfish works helped inspire generations of the faithful, and he eventually was named the patron saint of everyone from merchants to sailors to pawnbrokers.

No one really knows what St. Nicholas looked like. But in 2005, a forensic laboratory

in England reviewed historical data and photographs of the remains taken from St. Nicholas’ grave in the 1950s. Researchers concluded that he was a small man, perhaps no more than five feet in height, with a broken nose.

This image certainly does not fit with the robust frame and other imagery awarded St. Nicholas in more modern years. St. Nicholas is believed to be the inspiration for Santa Claus, which was a name taken from the Dutch Sinterklaas, a contracted form of Sint Nicolass, or St. Nicholas.

Tales of the real St. Nicholas’ giving spirit were blended with a

fictional personification by New York-based newspaper writers who blended the St. Nicholas name with the appearance of a Dutch town citizen. The goal was to reach out to the primarily Dutch immigrants living in New York at the time. This jolly elf image was given a boost by the publication of “A Visit From St. Nicholas,” which was published around the same time.

Eventually, the merry Santa Claus began to outshine the more accurate religious St. Nicholas version, fostered by political drawings and caricatures that depicted Santa as a chubby sort in a red suit.

That image prevails to this day.

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Beneath the Christmas symbolism, the beard and the presents associated with Santa Claus lies a tale of generosity that originated with St. Nicholas. by Metro Creative ConneCtion

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MANLY 2012 TOYOTA SIENNA. Like-new XLE 7-passenger. 42,000 miles.

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Power doors and 4 power windows. Back-up camera.

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Hitch. Roof Rack. $21,950 828-275-4931

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1981 MERCEDES-BENZ 380SL. ROADSTER, great running car, well kept and low original miles, 132,000. Clean NC title. $10,229.00 chrisjohnbetts@yahoo.com 828-335-4754

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2008 HONDA 200XR DUAL SPORT.

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gifts to re v

auto lovers’ engines Auto lovers tend to consider their cars their most prized possessions. While it may not be possible to buy the auto lover on your holiday shopping list a new car, there are many gifts that are sure to please those people who can’t get enough time behind the wheel or in the garage.

GPS

Though many new vehicles come with GPS, vehicle manufacturers tend to offer them as accessories and not standard features. So if your favorite driver is driving an older vehicle or did not splurge on a GPS when purchasing his latest ride, this gift is sure to please.

CAR WASH KIT

Auto lovers not only love to get behind the wheel, but they also love to get behind the wheel of a good-looking automobile. A car wash kit, complete with a wash and wax that repels water and protects a good polish, is an ideal gift for auto enthusiasts who like their vehicles to look as good as they drive.

CUSTOMIZED FLOOR MATS

Many auto enthusiasts consider their cars an extension of themselves, and a customized accessory, like a new set of floor mats, can add a personal touch to drivers’ rides. If your loved one has a special nickname for his or her vehicle, consider inscribing that nickname on a set

of customized floor mats. Auto enthusiasts who have an equal passion for a certain sport may appreciate floor mats with the logo of their favorite team.

HANDS-FREE HEADSET

Car lovers spend lots of time in their cars. Though such time might once have afforded auto enthusiasts an escape from the daily grind, nowadays the prevalence of smartphones has made it easier than ever for the outside world to find its way into vehicles. As a result, auto enthusiasts may appreciate a hands-free headset that allows them to take calls while driving without compromising their concentration on the road. Some hands-free devices even allow

drivers to stream music from their smartphones directly to their car stereos, allowing drivers to hit the open road while enjoying their favorite tunes.

AUTO SHOW TICKETS

Many auto-lovers keep an open eye for their next vehicle purchase. Auto shows are often the best places to learn about

new vehicles and what motorists can expect in the future, so why not give your favorite car guy or gal tickets to an upcoming auto show? He or she may find his or her next vehicle or simply enjoy walking around and seeing all the latest automotive industry upgrades and gadgets.

by Metro Creative Connection

how to

gifting a vehicle Generous friends or family members frequently opt to give away an older-model car to someone who may not have the means to purchase a car of their own. gifting a car can have a significant impact on the life of the person on the receiving end of the present.

While gifting a car may seem like a straightforward transaction, some steps need to be taken to ensure the process is conducted in adherence to the law. Various states may have their own specific rules, so it is best to contact your local department of motor vehicles office. The following are some general guidelines.

Transferring a vehicle to another person, whether it is a gift or a sale, involves transfer of the title as well. A vehicle title is a legal document naming a person or persons as the owner of the vehicle. The title contains the current owner’s name and residential address.

It also includes the vehicle’s identification number, or VIN, the date the car was sold and

the mileage on the vehicle at the time of sale.

Depending on where you live, transferring the title may be as simple as writing “gift” on the title. Otherwise, you may need to fill out forms to transfer the title to another person. Some people draw up a bill of sale with a nominal dollar amount to include with the title to show documentation of the transfer of ownership. Additionally, the recipient of the gifted car will fill out paperwork, which includes tax information. Again, depending on where you live, there will be rules about tax exemptions or taxes that must be paid on the vehicle. This is another time when contacting the motor vehicle department is advisable.

Keep in mind that whoever is

doing the gifting may not be able to use the car as a tax writeoff. The United States Internal Revenue Service notes that you cannot deduct the value of gifts you make other than those given to registered charitable organizations.

It is common courtesy to ensure the vehicle is in good working order prior to giving it as a gift. This way the recipient isn’t faced with a bevy of costly repairs. Take the car or truck in for a tune-up. Be sure it has a fresh oil change and that it has been washed and vacuumed.

This way the recipient gets the maximum benefit from this generous gift.

by Metro Creative Connection

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tips

healthy hobbies & activities for men How a m a n spe n d s h i s f r e e t i m e can go a long way toward improving his quality of life and overall health. Family- and work-related stress might be unavoidable, but a healthy hobby can make it easier for men to cope with that stress.

But even if you aren’t stressed out, the following healthy hobbies can improve your quality of life and make the most of your free time.

Dust off that old guitar.

Playing an instrument, whether it’s the guitar, the piano, the drums, etc., is a great way to relax and, depending on when you started playing, may have a significant and positive impact on your mental health in the years to come. A study published in the July 2012 issue of Frontiers in Human Neuroscience found that playing a musical instrument

may reduce the effects of mental decline associated with aging. Researchers behind the study based their findings on adults who learned to play music in childhood, so men who learned to play their guitar or tickle the ivories as a child might benefit more than those who learned to play as an adult.

But even grown men with no previous musical experience can benefit from playing during their free time.

Hit the dance floor. Perhaps thanks to the popularity of the hit television show “Dancing With the Stars,” which has seen

professional football players like Emmitt Smith, Donald Driver and Hines Ward excel on the dance floor, more and more men are taking up dance, which can improve cardiovascular health and help men shed a few extra pounds. Dancing is also a great way to build muscle and improve bone health. What’s more, few women can resist a man who isn’t afraid to show his stuff on the dance floor.

Escape into a good book.

Reading is a great way to keep abreast of what’s going on in the world, and reading also provides several health

benefits. Research has shown that activities like reading can improve memory function, delaying or even preventing agerelated memory loss. Reading is also a great way to cope with stress, providing a welcome respite from the daily grind that allows you to peacefully unwind at the end of the day.

Get your hands dirty in the garden. Gardening is another great way to relieve stress while also getting some time in the fresh air. A 2011 study from researchers based in the Netherlands found that gardening is more effective at improving

mood than reading. That study examined two groups of people who were instructed to read or garden for 30 minutes.

When the half hour was up, the participants who gardened reported being in a better mood than those who read, and the gardening group also had lower levels of cortisol, a hormone associated with stress.

Additional studies have also linked gardening to reducing the symptoms associated with depression.

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uni q ue

new years traditions from

rou n d f o o d s ,

such as grapes, are consumed on New Year’s Eve to represent good luck and fortune.

across the globe

Some people may find it strange to withstand freezing temperatures and gusty winds for hours on end just to stand in the center of Times Square in New York City to catch a glimpse of a bejeweled ball drop at the stroke of midnight on New Year’s Eve. Yet this tradition may seem tame when compared to other unique rituals that take place around the world come New Year’s Eve. North Americans may be singing “Auld Lang Syne” and toasting to good fortune with a glass of bubbly, but elsewhere traditions can be somewhat

more eccentric. In some spots of South America, for example, revelers put on brightly colored underwear to ring in the New Year. Red underpants signal a

person looking for love, while yellow means they’re seeking money. The following are some other unique New Year’s traditions.

Tossing the dishes: In Denmark, individuals toss dishes at other people’s front doors.

Those who end up with the greatest number of broken dishes at their home’s threshold are considered lucky, as they have an abundance of loyal friends.

Right foot: Start off the new year on the right foot by literally stepping forward with your right foot at exactly 12:00 a.m. in Argentina.

Burning an effigy: People in Ecuador burn photographs and paper-filled scarecrows at midnight. This is to look away from the past and bring good fortune for the future.

Good grapes: Spain residents attempt to stuff 12 grapes in their mouths at midnight. If they are successful, they are expected to achieve good luck for the next year.

Dressing in white: Residents of Brazil dress all in white on New Year’s Eve to ward away bad spirits. Many also gather at the beach to toss floral offerings into the water to appease the goddess Yemaja, in the hopes she will grant them requests for the upcoming year.

Good travels: In Columbia, people walk around their blocks with empty suitcases to encourage traveling in the new year.

Ringing bells: Japanese ring all of their bells 108 times in accordance with the Buddhist belief that this will bring cleanliness. People in Japan also believe it is good luck to begin the new year smiling.

Putting up your dukes: Every year at the end of December, people in a small Peruvian village engage in fist fights to settle all of their differences. Afterward, they begin the new year with a clean slate.

First foot: Immediately after the clock strikes 12, the people of Scotland start firstfooting. This means being the first person across a friend or neighbor’s threshold bearing gifts of food, whiskey and financial prosperity. People in Greece celebrate in much the same way via the tradition of Pothariko.

Molten tin: In Finland, residents find the nearest piece of tin to melt. The molten tin is poured into a horseshoeshaped ladle and then dropped into cold water. The random shapes that form are interpreted in various ways to indicate what’s to come in the year ahead.

Feats of skill: Single women in Belarus spend New Year’s Eve hoping to increase their odds of getting married.

Ladies compete in games to see who will be the next to get hitched. These games may include seeing who will be the first to be approached by a rooster. The winner is the next person to become betrothed.

Appliance toss: In downtown Johannesburg, South African locals throw old appliances out of their windows to ring in the new year.

All things round: Roundshaped foods are served and consumed in the Philippines.

Filipinos believe round shapes that represent coins symbolize prosperity.

From suitcase to fistfights to eating round fruits, the traditions of welcoming the new year are varied around the world. by metro creative connection

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get the most

automotive bang for your buck Automobiles are more expensive than ever before.

According to auto researcher Kelley Blue Book, the average transaction price of a new car or truck sold in the United States in April of 2015 was $33,560. That figure, which represents a nearly 3 percent increase from the average transaction price a year earlier, highlights just how expensive new cars have become.

Because cars and trucks are such significant investments, many drivers want to get the most bang for their automotive buck. While that desire compels some drivers to purchase the most fuelefficient vehicle they can afford, motorists should know that fuel efficiency is not the only way they can secure the best returns on their automotive investments.

Maintenance Adhering to manufacturer maintenance guidelines is perhaps the most effective way for drivers to ensure

a great return on their automotive investments.

Routine maintenance, whether it’s changing oil at the recommended mileage intervals or keeping tires properly inflated so engines aren’t overtaxed, can add years to a vehicle’s life expectancy, stretching drivers’ dollars along the way.

Technology Many drivers purchase a car or truck and never give a second thought to the vehicle’s lights. But there’s a great disparity between standard manufacturer-installed lights

to 20 feet because of a quicker reaction to the brake lights.

Styling upgrades

(right) are brighter and more durable than standard incandescent lights (left), and guaranteed to last up to 12 years.

Ph i l i p s V i sion LED s

and aftermarket lights that employ the latest technology, such as Philips Vision LEDs. With LEDs, vehicle owners are less likely to lose a light to burnout or failure, which can effect visibility and potentially result in a police citation. Unlike incandescent bulbs that will eventually fade and go dim, LEDs stay bright at the same intensity, so drivers can be confident and rely on their consistent performance. Vision LEDs are new, innovative bulbs that are available for direct replacement on interior and exterior lights and feature

an advanced design capable of handling extreme heat and high vibrations. Because of their robust design and durability, Vision LEDs are backed by a 12-year limited warranty, providing drivers with more than a decades’ worth of return on their initial investments. And, unlike standard incandescent lights in brake light applications, Vision LEDs turn on instantly, helping drivers react faster.

A faster light response can help reduce overall braking distance. For example, at a speed of 75 mph, a driver can reduce braking distance by up

Because they are often personalized, automotive style upgrades are rarely associated with great returns. But some style upgrades are wiser investments than others. For example, Philips Vision LEDs mimic the popular lighting style used by many of today’s high-end luxury vehicle manufacturers, enabling drivers to give their vehicles the same high tech, top-ofthe-line look offered by luxury brands without saddling them with the higher costs of owning such vehicles. The Vision LEDs are available to replace brake and taillights as well as back-up, dome, glove compartment, side markers, trunk, and license plate lights, allowing drivers to make stylish upgrades that are backed by a limited 12-year warranty.

More information is available at www.philips.com/ visionled. by metro creative connection

Happy Holidays

Crossword solution from page 22.

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The Ultimate

Within every house there lies a place where a man feels at ease – where he can leave life’s daily stressors at the door, pop open a nice cold beer, and relax in the comforts of his…man cave. If you don’t have the luxury of having a man cave set up in your home, do not despair:

disturb the whole household when up late at night with your buddies.

• Home Security system. You no doubt will have plenty of valuables stored in your cave, and it would be such a shame to lose them due to theft.

Protect what’s dearest to your heart.

• Punching Bag and/or Weights. Your man cave could double as your in-home gym.

Taking the first step

Ask for help

Man Cave

First, take some time to visualize what it is you want out of your man cave and what you want it to look like. Be realistic, as you don’t want to blow your budget right off the bat. Take into consideration space and function. Remember, you can always build on what you’ve started.

Go with your gut

If you want a collage of beer caps glued to the ceiling, then by all means, do it. Since this is your room that you can do whatever you want with, go all out and make it your own. If you think something is too over the top, chances are, it isn’t! Stick with your gut.

Incorporate a theme

A man cave is all about the personality and passion of the man who owns it. Many hobbies and collections have taken center stage when creating a personal Manctuary. You could have your cave devoted to Harley Davidson or NASCAR. You could have a “Major League Man Cave,” a “Hunter’s Lair,” or a customized theatre and entertainment arena. Whatever your passion, let it reign in your cave. If no theme immediately comes to mind, here’s a helpful tip: pick an object (pool table, jukebox, photo) you like. That object can be your jumping off point, inspiring you to build upon it to get your overall look and color in mind.

diynetwork.com/home-improvement/awesome-rooms-from-man-caves/pictures

Do some research

There are tons of websites out there that can give you some really great ideas on how to design and build the man cave that best suits you. Here are some to check out: houzz.com, pinterest.com, diynetwork.com

Make a budget

The dreaded “B” word.

However, this word will most likely save your wallet and your peace of mind in the end.

Make a list of all the materials you’ll need to start building.

With whatever budget you’re working with, it’s ideal to leave

a 10 – 15% leeway for costs you don’t expect. You’ll most likely have plenty of them!

Consider features

The ultimate man cave shouldn’t be like just any other room in the house. It should stand apart in the features it provides as well as its personality and seclusion. Here are some appealing features to consider – assuming it’s within budget, of course.

• Sound proof walls. This is especially nice if you have children and don’t want to

Don’t be afraid to get as much help as you need. If you don’t have some required tools, borrow from your friends or rent from a home improvement store. If you have any family members or friends with building experience, get them to help you! Their expertise will be much needed. If your build is a bit out of your league, (requiring plumbing, electrical, HVAC work, etc.), by all means get professional help!

Ask licensed professionals for their advice and/or services.

Whether you’re doing the building or a contractor is, construct a step-by-step list of what needs to be done and in what order. Organization is key!

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find great gifts for

Hunters & Outdoor Enthusiasts “When it comes to hunters, think lightweight and packable,” says Louis Chalfant, director of product development at Smith’s Consumer Products. Here are a few ideas to consider:

Sharpen their Game Those who hunt, fish and go on outdoor expeditions know just how important it is to keep tools sharp. You can hone gamesmanship with essential

gear like a knife sharpener.

For instance, a versatile tool like the Jiffy-Pro Handheld Sharpener is quick, safe and easy to use whether one is in the field, back at camp, or at home.

It functions both to set the edge on a dull or damaged blade and to achieve razor sharpness. Plus, the scissors sharpening slot is large enough to accommodate game shears as well.

Lightweight enough to be a stocking stuffer, consider, the

4” Diamond Combination Bench Stone, which features coarse and fine grit sharpening surfaces.

Its innovative design speeds sharpening by collecting and holding the metal filings which ordinarily build up during use.

Each stone has a groove for fish hooks or pointed tools, and when one is finished sharpening; he or she can store the stones in the handle for safekeeping.

These tools are available at sporting goods, outdoors and

hardware retail stores, as well as online at SmithsProducts.com.

Get them Prepared Those whose adventures take them off the beaten path need certain lightweight, compact tools to be prepared for a variety of situations. A fire starter is a must-have for any

avid outdoorsman, hunter or backpacker.

Other handy items to consider for gifts are a high-quality first aid kit with all the essentials, a multifunctional pocket knife or even an IOU promising to cover the cost of this seasons’ hunting and fishing licenses. by statepoint media

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IWANNA.COM To learn more, visit proJeCtCHiLdsaFe.orG

G Iv E T H E G I FT O F

gun storage C AbL E L O C K price range: $10 - $50

A cable lock can be used on most firearms, allows for quick access in an emergency and offers security from theft. The cable runs through the barrel or action of a firearm to prevent it from being accidentally fired, requiring either a key or combination to unlock it.

AFFORDAbLE ACCESSIbLE THEFT DETERRENT

there are multiple options for safely storinG and protectinG firearms when they’re not in use. use this Guide to determine which mechanism best suits your lifestyle, priorities and environment.

GUN CASE

E L E CTRONIC L OCK bOX

For those looking to conceal, protect or legally transport a registered firearm, a gun case is an affordable solution available in a variety of materials including plastic, fabric, or metal. Be sure to lock it with an external device for added security.

Electronic lock boxes are an effective way to store or legally transport firearms, and they also prevent theft since only the person with the code can access the contents. Some electronic lock boxes are specially designed for quick access.

price range: $10 - $150

AFFORDAbLE PORTAbLE PROTECTS FROM DAMAGE

price range: $50 - $350

L OCK bOX

price range: $25 - $350

With integrated locks, storage boxes provide reliable protection for firearms, and allow gun owners to legally transport them outside of their home.

AFFORDAbLE PORTAbLE PROTECTS FROM DAMAGE

AFFORDAbLE PORTAbLE PROTECTS FROM DAMAGE

FULL SIZ E + bIOMETRIC GUN SAFE price range: $200 - $2500

A gun safe protects its contents from the elements and allows gun owners to safely store multiple firearms in one place. Guns safes of all sizes are now available with biometric options to ensure only certain people can have access.

THEFT DETERRENT PROTECTS FROM DAMAGE

IWANNA.COM

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DECEMBER 13, 2016

G R E A T GI FT S FO R

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your favorite music lover findinG the riGht Gift come the holiday season is not always so simple. many people on your list may seem as thouGh they already have everythinG they could ever want or need, makinG it hard to find them a Gift they will truly enjoy.

A great way to find the right gift is to think of a loved one’s hobbies and find something that fosters those passions. Many people love music, and if there happens to be a budding musician or someone who simply loves to rock on your list, then the following gifts may be music to their ears.

CONCERT TICKETS

The ultimate gift for many music fans is tickets to see their favorite performer in person.

Concert tickets can sell out quickly, so research when tickets will be going on sale and be prepared to purchase them as early as possible. Some credit card companies sponsor concerts and make special arrangements with venues to

offer cardholders advanced deals or special packages. Find out if your credit card company has such an offer available for the concert you are buying tickets for.

DIGITAL GIFT CARD

Gone are the days when music fans visit a record store to purchase vinyl records, cassette tapes and even CDs. Many music fans now listen exclusively to digital music, so a gift card for digital downloads from Amazon or iTunes makes a great gift. A subscription to a music-streaming service also makes a great gift.

THEATER TICKETS

Some people’s love of music stems from their love of live theater. Even if your loved one

lives nowhere near the bright lights of Broadway, touring companies that perform popular Broadway shows visit cities both big and small across the country. Tickets to such shows can stoke your loved one’s passion for music and make for a great night out on the town.

MUSIC LESSONS

Perhaps your loved one is a budding musician who can benefit from professional instruction? A great way to encourage their aspirations is to finance their lessons with local music or vocal instructors.

Visit a nearby college or school for recommendations on local instructors. The franchise “School of Rock” has regional locations and offers musical training as well.

MUSIC STORE GIFT CERTIFICATE

Musicians often need to repair or replace their instruments, so a gift card to a music store can make for a much-needed and appreciated gift. Repairs and new instruments can be expensive, so if you plan to go this route, put enough money on the card to make a significant dent at the register.

G a d G e t s & d ow n l oa d s can be expensive— surprise the music lover on your list with a gift certificate.

GADGETS

Each year the market seems to offer newer and better ways to listen to music, and these gadgets may be on your loved one’s wish list. Look into the latest headphones, speakers and more to please your audiophile.

SOUND SySTEM

Advancements in technology have proven to be music to music lovers’ ears. Music fans can now take advantage of crisp sound systems that make music that much more enjoyable.

Sound systems come in many shapes and sizes, and they can vary significantly in regard to price. When purchasing a sound system as a holiday gift,

look for one that’s compatible with your loved one’s existing components, such as a television or music player.

STREAMING SERvICE MEMbERSHIP

Unlike the days when music fans had to wait for local deejays to play their favorite songs on the radio, today’s music fans can essentially create their own radio stations on their computers and even on their phones. Shoppers can buy their favorite music fans subscriptions to streaming services, such as Pandora or Spotify, and listeners can then tailor their own stations to include their favorite genres, artists or individual songs.

by Metro Creative ConneCtion

did you know?

“The Christmas Song” (usually subtitled “Chestnuts Roasting on an Open Fire”) was written in 1944 by Bob Wells & Mel Tormé. The song was written during a heat wave as a way to think cool thoughts. It only took 40 minutes to write the music and some of the lyrics.

Nat King Cole’s rendition of the song is among the more popular versions.

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great gifts for

the family foodie fo od t h e m e d gi f ts make the perfect holiday present for food fanatics.

Shoppers have an endless array of options to satisfy their favorite foodies’ appetites.

The best holiday gifts are often those that encourage their recipients to pursue a passion or favorite hobby. Tickets to a ballgame might be right up a sports fan’s alley while the family globetrotter would no doubt love a contribution to his or her travel fund.

When gifting the family foodie, that one person who loves to cook or simply can’t get enough of his or her favorite cuisines, shoppers have a host of options at their disposal to ensure this holiday

season brings a smile to their favorite foodie’s face.

Spice rack

Few home cooks can get by without a vast selection of spices, so a spice rack that

includes all the essential spices makes perfect sense for the family foodie. Some spice racks even come with several years’ worth of free spice refills, so do your homework and find one that will have your friend or

family member spicing things up for years to come.

Cooking lessons

Cooking lessons can be a great way for men, women and even children to cultivate their love for food. If your friend or family member prefers a specific type of cuisine, then find him or her cooking lessons where he or she can learn how to prepare and not just eat some favorite dishes. Cooking lessons also make a great opportunity to bond with a loved one. If you, too, want to expand your cooking horizons, buy your own lessons and go with your friend or family member.

A night out

If your favorite foodie prefers his or her meals made by someone else, treat that friend or family member to a night out at his or her favorite restaurant. You can give a gift card to the restaurant or take this special someone out yourself and enjoy a great meal and great company to boot.

Serving dishes

Many foodies not only love to

eat but also love to serve up their favorite foods to family and friends. If your friend or family member has played host to guests many times in the past, surprise him or her with some new serving dishes. You probably have a sense of their serving style already, but if you don’t, make a mental note the next time you visit or simply buy them a gift card so they can buy whichever dishes they need to make their next soiree a success.

Wine rack

A great bottle of wine completes a great meal, so why not buy your family foodie a place to store all of his or her bottles of wine? Wine racks can range from the simple, inexpensive standup models to more complex or expensive models that need to be installed. If the eventual recipient of your thoughtful gift rents rather than owns his or her home, avoid buying a wine rack that needs to be installed, as that might cause damage that will cost them some money when the time comes to move out. But if

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DID YOU KNOW?

The oft-quoted holiday favorite “Christmas Vacation” turned 25 years old last year, yet the film remains as popular as ever. Here are a couple tidbits that even the most ardent fan might be able to use to surprise friends.

• Actress Mae Questrel (Aunt Bethany) provided the voices for Betty Boop & Olive Oyl in the 1930s.

“Christmas Vacation” would be her final film.

• “Christmas Vacation” featured a handful of “Saturday Night Live” alumni. In addition to the film’s star, Chevy Chase, SNL alums Randy Quaid, Julia Louis-Dreyfus and Brian Doyle-Murray appeared in the film.

G o od k n i v e s a r e t h e fou n dat ion of a w e l l -e qu i ppe d k i tc h e n .

No other tool will improve the joy of cooking quite like a good chef’s knife. A dull, awkward knife is not only a hassle to use, but dangerous too.

your friend or family member owns their home, then look for a wine rack that fits in with their established décor. You even can christen the new wine rack by supplementing your gift with a few bottles of your loved one’s favorite vintages.

Cooking kit

Ingredients and other essential elements of good meals were once taken for granted. But more and more foodies are now creating their own foods from scratch. Bacon fans may fall in love with a kit that helps them cure and smoke their own bacon, while those who love fresh, homemade bread may appreciate a bread-making kit that includes flour, a pan, some recipes, and other items necessary to make the perfect homemade loaf of bread.

Cooking kit options are vast, so find a food your loved one can’t go without and purchase the appropriate kit.

Gardening tools

While the holiday season might not seem like the ideal time to buy your favorite foodie some gardening tools, such items make the perfect gift for your loved one who wants to grow his or her own fruits and vegetables. Locally grown produce has become increasingly popular among foodies focused on ecoconscious cooking practices, and it does not get much more local than home cooks’ own

backyards.

Cutlery set

Though it’s easy to overlook, cutlery goes a long way toward making home cooks’ jobs easier.

The right cutlery set, which may include one or two chef’s knives, a vegetable knife, a santoku knife, a bread knife, and other knives home cooks will appreciate, can make preparing a meal easier and more efficient than cooking without a set.

High-end cutlery sets can cost several hundred dollars, but shoppers on more limited budgets can still find quality cutlery sets for less money.

Food getaway

Many foodies love to travel so they can experience cuisines popular overseas or in different regions of the country. Men and women whose spouses love food can plan a food-themed getaway weekend to a locale that specializes in a type of food their significant others enjoy or have always wanted to try. For example, men and women who love lobster may enjoy a trip to Maine’s annual Lobster Festival, while those who can’t get enough barbecue may appreciate a trip to one of the country’s more notable barbecue spots, such as Memphis, Kansas City, North Carolina or Texas.

by Metro Creative Connection

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gi v e the gift of

adventure this holiday season An evolving and dynamic collection, from walking and driving tours to culinary experiences and outdoor adventures, Greenville’s Signature Experiences all center around one of the Southeast’s most remarkable destinations and are led by local experts who bring personal passion, expertise and intimate knowledge of the back stories behind each tour.

Waterfall Tours

Join Jocassee Lake Tours to explore the wilderness wonder of America’s most beautiful lake. Visit the many waterfalls that can only be seen by boat, and if it’s summer, you can even swim in them! Enjoy fall’s color explosion, winter’s solitude and abundant waterfowl, and spring’s rebirth of nature. Come see why National Geographic declared Lake Jocassee and the Jocassee Gorges one of the world’s 50 last great places!

Depart from the main dock at Devils Fork State Park promptly at 10AM and return 2PM. jocasseelaketours.com

Bike The Rabbit

This locally owned and operated business near Fluor Field provides free delivery and pickup of touring bicycles to visitors and residents who want to explore Downtown or the GHS Swamp Rabbit Trail on two wheels. They also offer children’s bikes, baby seats and trailers for rent.

1021 S. Main St., Suite F. 864-990-5446

At the Chef’s Table Culinary Tour

Tuck into the tasty side of Greenville. This three-hour experience spotlights the Table 301 group’s chefs on a delicious exploration of some of Greenville’s leading restaurants. Not only do you get to meet the chefs, but you also get to experience cooking demonstrations, go behind-thescene with a kitchen visit, eat in elegant private dining areas, and more. You’ll also hear tales about Greenville’s revitalization and early days as you walk down Main Street during the tour.

Tue 6-9pm and Sat 1:30pm-4:30pm. $45. 864-567-3940

Greenville BBQ Trail Tour

Greenville’s BBQ scene has been gaining more and more national attention, and was most notably ranked a top 10 BBQ city in America by Yahoo.com. While Downtown Greenville’s familiar culinary scene has some great BBQ

fascinating details behind many of the museum’s treasures. Gain a greater understanding of the art of the old masters and learn remarkable stories of the artists, collectors, and facts behind these incredible treasures.

Museum & Gallery at Bob Jones University. 864-567-3940

Segway Tour of Greenville is one of Greenville’s greatest treasures—an oasis in the heart of downtown with scenic overlooks, nature trails, pond, landscaped gardens, waterfalls, and a pedestrian suspension bridge. The beauty of the waterfalls and gardens is enhanced by the graceful lines of the Liberty Bridge, a unique pedestrian bridge that curves around a waterfall on the Reedy River.

The 355-foot long suspension bridge is supported by cables on only one side, giving an unobstructed view of the falls. fallspark.com

fa l l s pa r k on t h e r e e dy

options, this tour will take you outside of the city center to the places locals know and love. These are the types of joints with smoke stacks sticking out of rooftops and white smoke billowing out of chimneys—smoking the meats right on the premises. Visits to: Bucky’s Bar-B-Q, Henry’s Smokehouse, Mike & Jeff ’s BBQ. Pick-up & drop-off in front of Greenville City Hall (206 S Main St).

864-567-3940

Greenville History Tours

Whether you want to explore the West End on foot or motor through greater Downtown Greenville, historian John Nolan offers a dynamic variety of thematic walking and driving

tours of the city’s vibrant business core and historic neighborhoods.

Available year-round, these tours reveal fascinating stories about Greenville’s past.

Downtown Greenville. 864-567-3940

Old Master Paintings Tour

Discover works by great European artists led by the foremost expert on the collection! Finding a large, public collection of old master paintings in the South is pretty rare. This astounding collection began as Greenville’s first museum in 1951 and has gained worldwide acclaim—particularly for its survey of Italian and Baroque art.

Join the curator who worked with the collection for over 2 decades as he shares insights, history, and

Tours are easily tailored to each groups needs and desires. You are guaranteed to be amazed by the ground you will cover on your Segway experience. Start right in the heart of downtown Greenville and from there you will glide thru downtown towards the historic West End. Then cruise around the Swamp Rabbit trail exploring some of the highlights of this area.

233 North Main St, Suite 3. 864-2140119. greenvillesegwaytours.com

Historic West End Walking Tour

The tour begins at the very birthplace of Greenville—Falls Park. Imagine these same 28-foot natural falls casting their spell on the first colonial settler, Richard Pearis, when he arrived in 1769.

At the foundation walls of an 1816 grist mill, learn how this small trading post rose to become the textile center of the world. Visit some of the oldest buildings still existing along the banks of the river, as well as a review of the $137 million Riverplace development and more. Intriguing automotive, baseball, and commercial history round out the tour.

532 South Main Street (Entrance to Falls Park - corner of Camperdown Way & S. Main St.) 864-234-6437

B o o k Sig n at u r e E x pe r ie n c e s on l i n e : VisitGreenvilleSC.com/signature. See the entire collection, and check back often for new seasonal experiences.

courtesy of visitgreenvillesc.com

IWANNA ® BIG BOYS TOYS

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DECEMBER 13, 2016

maintaining workout routines during the holidays Between decking the halls, visiting family and attending holiday parties, it may seem like there is little time to maintain a workout routine during the holiday season.

While the holiday season is an especially busy time of year, men and women who plan and stay dedicated to their routines do not need to let their health fall by the wayside until January.

Several studies show that people can gain anywhere from one pound to a few pounds between Thanksgiving and Christmas.

Although that might not seem like a lot of weight, a report in The New England Journal of Medicine noted that many people never lose the weight they put on during the holidays.

Those who struggle to keep the weight off understand the importance of maintaining both a consistent fitness schedule and healthy eating habits. This may be challenging when the rich foods and parties synonymous with the holiday season are around to threaten healthy habits. Here’s how to stay on course.

Establish a regular exercise

date. Treat exercise as any other obligation on the calendar. Make it a necessity and not a luxury.

Schedule time for workouts, even if it means removing something else from your agenda.

Don’t worry about the length of your workouts. If you’re accustomed to an hourlong workout but cannot fit in more than 20 minutes on some days, don’t skip the workout simply because it’s shorter. Make the most of that time by targeting larger, core muscles.

Change your schedule.

You may need to alter your daily schedule to fit in gym workouts or other exercise. Try getting up earlier and heading out prior to work or school. This will open up time throughout the rest of your day, and you can use that time to meet the demands of the holiday season.

Get a trainer or a workout buddy. It’s far easier to blow off

a workout when you go it alone.

However, if you have a workout partner who is counting on you and vice versa, you may be less inclined to miss a workout - even when you’re not especially motivated to hit the gym.

Try new activities. Workouts need not be limited to exercises in the gym. Plenty of activities work the body and burn calories.

Sledding, ice skating, skiing, and snowboarding are just a few winter sports that can help you stay in shape.

Choose a hotel with a pool or gym. If holiday travel is on

your itinerary, select a hotel that has fitness equipment. This way you can keep up with your routine. Even swimming a few laps in an indoor pool can provide a cardiovascular workout while you’re on vacation. Remember, it only takes a two-week break from exercise to experience a fitness regression, and you will only have to work harder to get back to your current fitness level if you let exercise slide too long.

Add short, high-intensity exercises. Burn more calories in less time with high-intensity workouts. This way you won’t

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need to schedule as much time for workouts but will still get the benefit of exercise.

Transform chores into exercise opportunities. See that vacuum cleaner, rake or broom as a piece of exercise equipment. While cleaning up for holiday company, turn on the radio and get your heart pumping, too. Do leg raises while you’re preparing meals or do some pushups off of the kitchen counter.

Use your bodyweight. Even if you can’t make it to the gym, rely on your own body resistance for a thorough workout. Pushups, squats, burpees, mountain climbers, jumping rope, and lunges are some exercises that rely on bodyweight for effectiveness.

Periodically exercise during the day. If you have a few free moments here and there during the day, use these opportunities to exercise. By the end of the day, you may find you squeezed in an entire workout’s worth of exercise over the course of several 10-minute intervals.

Exercise and fitness do not have to play second fiddle to other holiday activities. Make time for workouts, and you will be ahead of the game come the new year.

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calendar A shev ille A rea : Th e Sa n ta l an d Diarie s

December 14 - December 18

When an out of work slacker takes a job as an elf in Macy’s Santaland, his hilarious observations of shoppers and employees are much more naughty than nice. This one-man one-act play can only be described one way: crazy funny. A favorite holiday tradition is back for its 15th year in a row! Asheville Community Theatre $15; Thursdays 7:30pm; Fridays & Saturdays 7:30 & 9:30pm, Sunday 2pm. ashevilletheatre.org Th e 4 5th An n ua l Be rnste i n Fami ly Chri stma s Spe c tac u l ar !

December 15-17 & 21-23

The bawdy, bodacious, and boisterous Bernsteins are back, and they’ve got some special surprises in store for old fans and new friends! Asheville’s favorite, raunchy, screwball holiday comedy is ready to get up close and personal with audiences. Magnetic 375, $24, 7:30 p.m. nightly, and 10:00 p.m. late shows December 10 and 17. themagnetictheatre.org Hol i day Ga l l e ry Hop

December 16

Browse historic downtown Hendersonville & Flat Rock to visit 15 galleries exhibiting fine art & craft, by local and regional artists. Also included are refreshments, and a monthly raffle. 5-8pm visithendersonvillenc.org Ch e ro k e e L igh t s & L e g e n d s

December 16, 17, 30, 31

This special Christmas event invites your family to stroll under the lights through fun, interactive displays that tell ancient Cherokee Christmas legends. And that’s just for starters. You can also see the lighting of our 40-ft. Christmas tree, have a visit with Santa, and take a spin on our synthetic ice rink. Cherokee Indian Fairgrounds, 545 Tsali Blvd. visitcherokeenc.com c h r i st m a s F u n at t h e fa r m

December 17

Christmas Fun at the Farm features a variety of activities including twilight house tours, pictures with Santa and make your own ornaments. Historic Johnson Farm, Hendersonville, 3-6pm. historicjohnsonfarm.org Chr i stma s at Con n e mara

December 17

Musicians and storytellers will perform traditional holiday stories and music from 10am - 2pm. Young visitors will find many opportunities for participation in storytelling, sing-a-longs and crafts. Hot cider and cookies will be served. The house will be decorated in the simple style of the Sandburgs with poinsettias and a traditionally decorated Christmas tree. Connemara FREE 10am nps.gov/carl A Day wi th Dic k e ns & A Chri stma s Carol

December 17 & 18

events A mountain play with mountain music! It’s Christmas Eve in 1955 at a small town train depot where the snowy weather has caused some delays. Over the course of the evening, strangers become friends, friends become family, and the warmth of human connection is deepened through stories and songs.

Though the weather outside is frightful, inside the depot it’s delightful as memories of Christmases past are shared.

Asheville Community Theatre $12-$22; Fridays & Saturdays at 7:30 pm; Sundays at 2:30 pm; 828.254.1320 ashevilletheatre.org In die Sou th L a st Min u te Mark et

December 18

Indie South is coming to Asheville for a holiday pop up market showcasing around 40 artists and vintage dealers selling unique and one of a kind finds for the one of a kinds on your list. Shopping last minute doesn’t have to mean going to the mall-come shop small! Drinks and food and a vinyl DJ plus swag bags for the first 25 attendees. $2, kids 12 and under free. The Grey Eagle indiesouthfair.com A Swa n na noa S ol st ice

December 18

Celebrate the season with this holiday tradition, featuring award-winning recording artists and multi-instrumentalists as they create a mix of seasonal music, masterful storytelling, and poetry.

Diana Wortham Theatre, Asheville. dwtheatre.com Ch a n u k a h L i v e !

December 18

Asheville’s largest Hanukkah party with fun for all ages. Features music, attractions for teens and adults, Sushi Bar & Kosher food stations, shopping & more. 3 - 6pm. Free. chabadasheville.org Music on th e Ro c k : A C e lt ic Chr i stma s

Through December 18

From the western shores of Ireland to the Great Glen Highlands of Scotland, the people of the British Isles have been infusing Christmas carols with their unique Celtic sound for over a millennium.

The Playhouse Downtown will be transformed with mist and candlelight for three singer/storytellers and a group of unique musicians who will ignite the Christmas spirit within you. Tickets $28. flatrockplayhouse.org L a k e J u l i a n F e st i va l of L igh t s

Through December 22

Light up your Holiday nights at the Lake Julian Park Festival of Lights. The road circling the park becomes a magical drive through journey through tunnels of dazzling lights. The park is brightly lit with thousands of colored lights and over 50 animated and stationary light displays.

Lake Julian Park $5 for a car, $10 for a van and $25 for a motor coach, 6-9pm 828.684.0376 A l l i s Ca l m: The Chr i stma s T ruc e of 1914

Through December 23

Montford Park Players is proud to announce their upcoming festival, A Day with Dickens, to be presented with its annual staging of A Christmas Carol, the classic holiday tale by Charles Dickens.

The festival will run from 3 to 5pm and the show will begin at 5pm on Friday and Saturday afternoons.

Free. Hazel Robinson Amphitheatre montfordparkplayers.org

This captivating story relives a poignant moment in history when Allied and German soldiers laid down their arms to celebrate the holiday together during WWI. Presenting traditional patriotic and holiday songs from both sides of the Western Front and is interspersed with text read from letters, journals, and interviews from the soldiers who lived it.

NC Stage Company Wed - Sat 7:30pm; Sun 2pm 828-239-0263 ncstage.org

ea st we st hol iday p op up shop

W i n t e r f e st

Through December 17

The East West Venue will be transformed into a fullservice boutique featuring over 75 artists, crafters, vintage collectors, and food vendors. Shoppers will find a variety of outstanding handmade and vintage goods at the Pop Up – ranging from one-of-a-kind jewelry, greeting cards, clothing, accessories, leather goods, art prints, housewares, and gifts for baby.

East West Venue eastwestpopupshop.com Snowb oun d

Through December 17

Saturdays through December 24

Be captivated by thousands of holidays lights and festive celebrations all winter long at Tryon Resort’s WinterFest. Enjoy visits and pancake breakfasts with Santa, story time with Mrs. Claus, free carousel and hayrides, classic car cruise-ins, and other family-friendly fun! Shop for presents in the Holiday Village and onsite shops carrying name brand tack, locally made arts and crafts, and other great gift ideas. While there, dine at one of the restaurants serving gourmet cuisine, sushi, casual favorites, hearty Italian dishes and Sunday brunch. Tryon

International Equestrian Center tryon.coth.com De c k t h e T r e e s

Through December 25

View 30 beautiful & unique Christmas trees handdecorated by area business/artists. Vote for your favorite by making a cash donation - all donations go to the Swannanoa Valley Christian Ministries.

Monte Vista Hotel, Black Mountain Free 6-8pm.

828.707.7615 blackmountain.org i n d o or mo to cro ss

December 30 & 31

Victory Sports produces championship motorcross events for everyone. Whether you are a true beginner or a pro-am rider looking for advancement points, we have events for you. Classes and races for beginners, youth, ATV, amateur, senior, and expert level riders. Come out and watch or take part! WNC Ag Center, McCough Arena. wncagcenter.org The Hol ly Jol ly Chr i stma s T rol l ey Tour

Through December 30

A festive 75 minute trip through the lights and sights of the season. Anyone and everyone up for a jolly good time is warmly invited to pick a date to see the prettiest scenes around town … sidewalks, storefronts, B&Bs and inns, parks and churches, all in their merry finest. You’ll travel through Biltmore Village, Historic Montford, Grove Park and the Grove Park Inn, Pack Square and downtown Asheville. Stories of local holiday traditions, singing of classic carols and popular Christmas songs are on the program, too. Expect smiles and laughter, oohs and ahhs at magical illumination, all along the way. graylineasheville.com N ew Year’ s Eve Ma sque ra de

December 31

The third annual masquerade ball at The Social Lounge in downtown Asheville offers a time to remember and a time to look forward. Come masqued as your favorite superhero. There will be a $5 cover for the Masquerade Ball, with appetizers and champagne toast included. The Social Lounge socialloungeasheville.com A n n ua l D ow n t ow n Ho l i day W i n d ow Di s pl ay C om pe t i t ion

Through December 31

Every year, the Asheville Downtown Association organizes the Downtown Holiday Windows Contest. There will be about 30 businesses participating this year creating a delightful experience for everyone who walks around downtown. Downtown Asheville FREE ashevilledowntown.org F i r st Day H i k e

December 31-January 1

As 2016 ends Chimney Rock State Park will celebrate the last day of North Carolina State Parks’ Centennial with a campfire and free s’mores. We will toast to 100 s’more years at midnight followed by our ranger-led First Day Hike at 12:01 a.m. This moderate, seven-mile round trip hike will climb up about 1,200 feet in elevation along Chimney Rock Park Road to the top of Chimney Rock itself where we will peer across Hickory Nut Gorge into the New Year! Be sure to dress for the weather, and bring a flashlight or headlamp to light your way. chimneyrockpark.com L a k e Lure P ol ar Plu nge

January 1

Hundreds of brave (and crazy) people take the annual New Year’s Polar Plunge and freeze for a reason – to support local charities. Many more come to watch the fun, complete with bonfires to keep warm! The chilly dip takes place on New Year’s Day every year at 12 Noon. Registration is 10 until 11:30 AM and is a very festive time with fantastic costumes and a live DJ. The plunge will be held at the Lake Lure Inn pool (2771 Memorial Highway) this year due to the lowering of the lake for winter maintenance. lakelure.com TH E POLAR EXPRESS

Through January 1

The 1¼ hour round-trip excursion comes to life as the train departs the Bryson City depot for a journey through the quiet wilderness for a special visit at the North Pole. Set to the sounds of the motion picture

iwanna.com soundtrack, guests on board will enjoy warm cocoa and a treat while listening and reading along with the magical story. Children’s faces show the magic of the season when the train arrives at the North Pole to find Santa Claus waiting. Santa will board, greeting each child and presenting them with a special gift as in the story, their own silver sleigh bell. Christmas carols will be sung on the return trip to the Bryson City Depot. Great Smoky Mountains Railroad gsmr.com Win te r L igh ts at Nc Arb oret um

Through January 1

Walk through a winter wonderland and experience the gardens in a whole new way! This 3 acre walking tour light show is unlike anything in Asheville.

Designed with an artistic aesthetic, Winter Lights will enhance the natural beauty of the gardens and landscape. The Arboretum has collaborated with Jerry Stripling, former designer and manager of holiday decorations, special projects and events for Walt Disney World®, to create a truly magical experience. Winter Lights will also feature music, gifts, food & beverages. Tickets must be bought in advance. North Carolina Arboretum Adults $18, Children (Ages 5 to 11) $16, Children 4 & Under Free; 6-10pm, ncwinterlights.com a shevil l e gun & k n ife show

January 7 & 8

Family friendly atmosphere offering a wide variety of firearms and related equipment for shooters, collectors, Civil War & Militaria enthusiasts. WNC Ag Center, Adults $8, Under 12 FREE; Saturday 9am - 5pm, Sunday 10am - 4pm mkshows.com Chr i stma s At Biltmore

Through January 8

More than a century ago, George Vanderbilt chose this magical season as the time to unveil his new home to family and friends. On Christmas Eve 1895, he opened Biltmore House’s doors for a regal yuletide celebration. This year’s Christmas at Biltmore promises another extravagant celebration, complete with dozens and dozens of Christmas trees, miles of ribbon, garland and lights and inspirational holiday demonstrations.

Biltmore Estate biltmore.com

Upstate SC: e l f da s h f u n ru n & wa l k

December 13

Be part of the holiday celebration and run or walk the Christmas Parade route in your best elf outfit.

T-shirts for all participants. Prizes for the best dressed and spirit. 6pm. Downtown Spartanburg, Staging area at corner of Pine St and Henry St spartanburgjaycees.net/elf-run Cl ems on Me n ’ s Ba sk etba l l All of Clemson’s home games will be played at the renovated Littlejohn Coliseum. Select single game tickets are on sale now at clemsontigers.com Dec. 13: Clemson vs. SC State (7pm) Dec. 28: Clemson vs. Wilmington (7pm) Jan. 3: Clemson vs. North Carolina (7pm) Jan. 14: Clemson vs. Virginia (12pm) Jan. 22: Clemson vs. Virginia Tech (6:30pm) Gre e n vil l e Swamp Ra bbi ts Ho c k ey Swamp Rabbits Hockey offers fantastic fun for the whole family! The Greenville Swamp Rabbits play in the South Division of the Eastern Conference of the ECHL, the premiere AA hockey league. The team is affiliated with the New York Rangers of the NHL. Home games are at Bon Secours Wellness Arena. Doors open one hour prior to game. bonsecoursarena.com Dec. 13: Vs. Atlanta Gladiators (7pm) Dec. 15 & 16: Vs. Reading Royals (7pm) Dec. 21: Vs. Norfolk Admirals (7pm) Dec. 28: Vs. South Carolina Stingrays (7pm) Jan. 7: Vs. South Carolina Stingrays (5pm) Jan. 8: Vs. Tulsa Oilers (3pm) Jan. 11: Vs. Atlanta Gladiators (7pm) Jan. 13: Vs. Norfolk Admirals (7pm) Jan. 15: Vs. Cincinnati Cyclones (3pm) Jan. 20: Vs. Atlanta Gladiators (7pm) Jan. 2: Vs. Orlando Solar Bears (7pm) Jayc e e s Chr i stma s Para de

December 13

As the area’s largest night parade with festively

IWANNA ® BIG BOYS TOYS

iwanna.com lighted floats, the parade is an event for all ages.

Come enjoy all that downtown Spartanburg has to offer and join in the fun! Downtown Spartanburg 6:30pm spartanburgjaycees.net Gre e n vi l l e San ta Run

December 17

Presented by the Greenville Track Club and Bon Secours St. Francis Sports Medicine continues to break ground in 2016. The run is departing from using trails in Cleveland Park to using roads in the Downtown area. The mood will be more festive than ever and we hope to encourage spectators to come and watch the awesome throng of costumed runners. The run returns to the excellent venue at the Bon Secours Wellness Arena, and as mentioned before, has a brand new 5K course.

Bon Secours Wellness Arena. 9am greenvillesantarun.com

What’s a holiday without family hijinks? It’s Christmas in Ohio, and a young couple wants to await the birth of their soon-to-be adopted child in peace. But as their funny and fearsome relatives converge on the hospital waiting room, the holiday becomes a free-for-all in this surprisingly heartwarming family comedy. Thu.-Sat. 8pm, Sun. 3pm. Centre Stage, 501 River St. centrestage.org Spirit of Christmas Past Festival

Through December 18

Fountain Inn’s Christmas Festival has two main attractions each night – horse-drawn carriage rides through a well-decorated and luminary-lined neighborhood and ice skating under the Farmers Market Pavilion. There are also other things to do at the festival such as pictures with Santa, a scavenger hunt, plays, carolers, hayrides and more.

Commerce Park, Fountain Inn 5:30-9pm nightly. fountaininn.org/festival

Hol i day at Peac e

December 16-18

Celebrate the season with the Greenville Symphony Orchestra’s most popular pops concert where music and merriment abound. Headlining this year’s concert is Broadway actress and singer Rachel York. Returning are International Ballet, Santa and Mrs. Claus and our audience sing-a-long. Fri. & Sat. 7:30pm, Sun. 3pm. The Peace Center. greenvillesymphony.org

The Nutcracker : Once Upon A Time in Greenville

December 22 & 23

Carolina Ballet Theatre reinvents this holiday classic with a Greenville inspired ballet, where the backdrops of the Liberty Bridge and the Greenville skyline are accompanied by dancing visions of snow, sweets, soldiers, and mice. Join Clara and her Nutcracker as they dance their way through Greenville to defeat the evil Mouse King. Peace Center Concert Hall. carolinaballet.org

ment with lights, and stars, and Santa? Consider a visit to Roper Mountain Holiday Lights. Roper Mountain Holiday Lights is the ONLY not-for-profit holiday lights event in the Upstate with all of the profits helping education and local non-profits. 2016 marks the 25th year of this great event which has become an upstate tradition for many families. Car, Minivan or SUV Mon-Thu $10 Fri-Sun $15; Activity; Vans: $25; Buses: $50; Multi Car Pass: $25. Good for three visits. Saves $5 to $20! Purchase at Gate.

Roper Mountain Science Center 6-10pm daily ropermountainholidaylights.com New Year’s Eve Show & Countdown

December 31

Ring in the new year downtown with the Alchemy Comedy Theater. This show feature fast paced improv games from Alchemy’s all-star Local Legends cast. Second half features improv comedy from the cast based on our year (and it’s been a doozy)!

Then we’ll provide champagne for the countdown to 2017! Coffee Underground Theatre, Greenville. alchemycomedy.com 2 6 th A n n ua l Hol i day L igh ts Sa far i Be n e f i t

Through January 2

Shop for vintage finds, upcycled home goods, handcrafted jewelry, reclaimed wooden pieces, gifts for dog lovers, chocolates, hand-poured candles, artisan foods, and many other locally-made items.

The Swamp Rabbit Cafe & Grocery will also be stocked with great holiday gift ideas, house-made pies, and delicious foodie finds. Swamp Rabbit Cafe swamprabbitcafe.com

10th Annual Holiday Art Show

Through December 23

Choose from a great selection of art that includes photography, jewelry, pottery, fiber art, painting and more. Let us be your destination for holiday shopping to purchase a unique gift for friends, family or even yourself. 10am - 5pm. The Arts Center of Clemson visitgreenvillesc.com

Drive through millions of sparkling Holiday Lights placed throughout our nearly 100 acre animal park then take some time to stroll in to see Santa and his many animals in the barns at Santa’s Village where relaxed fun sets the tone for time with family and friends as you warm your hands or roast marshmallows by the bonfire, visit Mrs. Claus’ attic for an incredible panoramic view of the lights event, or snap that selfie with a zebra, camel, or one of many animals waiting to meet you. Finish your evening off through a drive through the peaceful nativity area and more lights displays. Admission $6, 6-9pm. hollywild.org

E d Harri son Me moria l C e lt ic Chri stma s

St. F ra nc i s F e st iva l of T re e s

Chr i stma s at H e r i tage Par k

December 17

Come see the holiday trees on display at the Hyatt Regency Downtown, the Courtyard Greenville Downtown and the Hampton Inn & Suites RiverPlace. All proceeds will benefit the Outpatient Cancer Center at Millennium Campus.

Hyatt Regency Downtown, Courtyard Greenville Downtown & Hampton Inn & Suites RiverPlace stfrancisfoundation.com

Hol i day F l ea

December 17

A concert of Celtic and Christmas music in memory of Upstate musician and mill favorite, Ed Harrison. There will be fiddles, uilleann pipes, penny whistles, guitars, mandolins and more, all playing different types of Celtic music, songs from around the world, jigs and reels as well as old-time music, all to celebrate the season. Hagood Mill 10am-4pm Free visitpickenscounty.com L et No thi ng You Di smay

Through December 17

Through December 28

Rope r Mou n ta i n Hol i day L igh ts

Through December 30

Are you ready for some magic and holiday excite-

Through January 8

Featuring Santa’s Village complete with Santa and tons to do! It’s a place where young and old alike can gather and enjoy the fun, festive spirit of Christmas. Parking and admission into Santa’s Village is FREE!!! Heritage Park, dusk - 10pm. christmasatheritagepark.com hol i day ice r i n k

Through Jan 16

The Founders Holiday Ice Rink promises to be an essential holiday tradition. Whether skating or watching while enjoying a hot chocolate, the

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rink’s operating hours will allow everyone to enjoy the experience.

Fountain Park, Downtown Rock Hill. $10 includes skate rental. onlyinoldtown.com/icerink Un i te d Commun i t y Ban k Ic e on Ma in

Through January 16

Come out from November through January every year, to celebrate the holiday season with one of America’s favorite winter traditions - ice skating!

Located in the heart of downtown Greenville, United Community Bank Ice on Main is an openair ice skating rink – the only one of its kind in Upstate South Carolina. Mon.-Thurs. 2-9pm, Fri. & Sat. 11am-11pm, Sun. 11am-9pm.

Village Green, 206 Main St. iceonmain.com monste r jam

January 27 & 28

Featuring Monster Jam® trucks: Grave Digger, Monster Mutt, Bad News Travels Fast, Aftershock, Krazy Train, Mechanical Mischief, Raminator Rammunition (subject to change). Pick up some tickets to put under the tree!

Bon Secours Wellness Arena; Friday 7pm, Saturday 1pm & 7pm. bonsecoursarena.com Norman Ro c kwe l l’ s Home for the Hol idays

Through January 29

Join the Upcountry History Museum-Furman University, a Smithsonian Affiliate, as it ushers in the holiday season with the South Carolina debut of “Norman Rockwell’s Home for the Holidays” exhibit featuring more than 40 of his most memorable and enduring holiday images. 540 Buncombe St. upcountryhistory.org

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stocking stuffers for

your favorite sports fan

Tickets to a big-time game or event is one holiday gift that no sports fan will soon forget.

Gifts comes in all shapes and sizes, and sometimes the best gifts are those that come in small packages. Though some people pore over their holiday shopping lists for weeks, it’s not uncommon for even the most devoted holiday shopper to overlook stocking stuffers, which can be just as difficult to find as larger gifts.

When shopping for stocking stuffers, consider the recipient’s interests. For example, athletes and sports enthusiasts would undoubtedly love a gift that reflects their loyalty to a favorite team or their devotion to a particular sport.

Holiday shoppers who have a sports-crazed superfan or accomplished athlete on their shopping lists may want to consider the following items when looking for stocking stuffers this holiday season.

Sports memorabilia Sports fanatics sometimes double as collectors who are always on the lookout

for new memorabilia to display. Such collectibles may include bobbleheads, cards, ticket stubs and signed photographs or equipment.

Rare memorabilia may be beyond many gift-givers’ means, but there are still plenty of impressive items that can fit into any holiday gifting budget.

Game tickets Give sports fans a chance to cheer on their favorite teams in person. Find a home game that will not require the recipient to travel too far, or if you want to splurge, include transportation with the tickets to an away game. Secondary

market ticket-seller StubHub is a reliable resource that guarantees tickets sold on its site are legitimate, removing any doubt ticket market buyers may have.

Fan gear Sports fans can never have enough gear to show off their team pride. Everything from mugs to hats to authentic team jerseys makes for great stocking stuffers. In addition, look for pennants or t-shirts that feature team names or logos. Today just about any item comes emblazoned with sports team names. If you can’t find a particular item, it may be possible to order

it directly from a team or retailer or have it customized.

Sports equipment Athletes may benefit from updated equipment.

Determine if the athletes on your gift list have any gear that needs replacing. Parents, coaches or even teammates may offer recommendations regarding which equipment your loved one needs. If you don’t know a catcher’s mitt from a tennis racket, stuff the stocking with a gift card to a sporting goods store.

Magazine subscription Sports fans often enjoy reading up on their favorite

players and keeping abreast of team or industry news.

Magazine subscriptions are generally inexpensive and new subscriptions often come with free gifts as well.

Winner’s trophy For the sports fan who has missed out on getting his or her own trophy, have one made up as a stocking stuffer gag gift. It is certain to bring a laugh and hold a prime spot on the shelf with other sports memorabilia.

by Metro Creative Connection

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DECEMBER 13, 2016

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