Christmas Tree Tips and Tricks
Cozy Quarters Holiday hosting in small spaces
Avoid Hazards
Keep safety in mind when decorating for the holidays
HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE 2019
S2 | THURSDAY, DECEMBER 5, 2019
Keep safety in mind when decorating for the holidays
from Boyden & Perron!
Generators From
$459.00
Leaf Blowers
Snowblowers
Starting at
$149.99
e • Helm xe Equipm .00 9 lu 3 e $44.9 4 D $ t • mers ga Startin lectric Trim ctric Ele oE • Tor Ultra 225 .99 o 9 r 5 o $ T • r/Vac in All Blowe ertificates C t s if n • G ominatio Den
Starting at
$399.00
Chain Saws Starting at
$199.00 Lawnmowers
3125024-01
rom ifts Ferron G r e Oth den & P Boyet • Chaps nt Covers
THE REPUBLICAN | MASSLIVE.COM
Starting at
String Trimmers
$269.00
Starting at
$149.99 Travelers Insurance offers the following holiday decorating safety tips. • Do not overload outlets. Plan displays according to the number and location of available outlets. • Never exceed the maximum number of light strands that can be attached together. • Use lights and products that have been tested for safety. Certification marks like UL, ETL and CSA are from nationally recognized laboratories.
Sweaters - Mens & Womens
Cardigans • Pullovers ves • Mittens • Infant Kids Scarves
• LED lights should be used whenever possible. Such lights consume less energy and run cooler than other bulbs. • The ESFI says candles start almost 50 percent of all decoration fires. Minimize the risk by using candles only when they can be monitored. Artificial candles can be used in place of real candles.
Irish Jewelry l starting i at $21 $21.50 50
• Check for freshness in live trees. A fresh tree will last longer and is less of a fire hazard than an old tree.
Many different i styles & sizes i on display i
123 Academy Street, Chicopee • 413-594-4520
3125302-01
McClelland’s Florist
• Place Christmas trees at least three feet away from all heat sources, including fireplaces and heaters. • Use decorations that are non-combustible or made
from flame-resistant materials. • Pay attention to the age recommendations of decorations to see if they can be used in homes with young children. Some items, however common, are choking or strangulation hazards. • Avoid putting small, “mouth-sized” decorations near the ground or on lower limbs of trees, where young children can easily reach them. • Exercise caution when hanging decorations at high heights. Make sure the ladder is secured and have a spotter who can hold the ladder and pass items up safely. • Outdoor electric lights and decorations should be plugged into circuits protected by ground fault circuit interrupters, or GFCIs. • Exercise caution when decorating near power lines that extend to the house. • Keep hung stockings far away from open flames so they do not catch any errant embers. These are just a few suggestions for decorating a safely for the holiday season.
HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE 2019
THE REPUBLICAN | MASSLIVE.COM
THURSDAY, DECEMBER 5, 2019 | S3
mind g for SANTA’S CHOICE
FOR GIFTS OF GREAT TASTE! >05,: ŕ Ž :7090;: ŕ Ž ),,9:
$
Hand-Crafted
GIFT BASKETS
sistant
We’ve created a unique mix of gift baskets that are ready to gift. These baskets were created with some of our most popular items. They’re pre-made and ready for purchase. More styles available in store.
to the age ions of o see if they homes with n. Some er common, r strangula-
small, � decoraground or s of trees, children can hem.
Visit tableandvine.com for a complete list of our Gift Baskets and their ingredients.
$
.
on when rations at Make sure ecured and who can er and pass y.
Feast For All, $74.99
ric lights ns should o circuits round fault pters, or
Munchie $39.99 Munchies,
on when ar power nd to the
ckings far en flames catch any . few suggesting a safely season.
1119 RIVERDALE STREET, ROUTE 5, WEST SPRINGFIELD, MA WWW.TABLEANDVINE.COM
Chardonnay FĂŞte, $39.99
HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE 2019
S4 | THURSDAY, DECEMBER 5, 2019
THE REPUBLICAN | MASSLIVE.COM
HERE’S YOUR
Holiday Bonus
– R E A DY M A D E
)+(6 %'46+(+%#6'
GZR
M E A L S –
$25 GIFT CARD
% Q W P V T [ % N W D 4 Q C F r * Q N [ Q M G / C U U C E J W U G V V U r r Y Y Y N Q I E C D K P F G N C P G [ E Q O Valid for food only. Cannot be used for beverages, tax or gratuity. One time redemption. No cash value.
,W V WKH PRVW ZRQGHUIXO WLPH RI WKH \HDU WR EX\ JLIW FHUWLILFDWHV WR 'HODQH\ V *ULOO DQG 7KH 0LFN
v )RU HYHU\ XS WR \RX VSHQG RQ JLIW FHUWLILFDWHV \RX ZLOO UHFHLYH DQ H[WUD JLIW FHUWLILFDWH WR \RXU FKRLFH RI 'HODQH\ V *ULOO 7KH 0LFN RU 'HODQH\ V 0DUNHW IRU IUHH v )RU HYHU\ \RX VSHQG RQ JLIW FHUWLILFDWHV \RX ZLOO UHFHLYH JLIW FHUWLILFDWHV WR \RXU FKRLFH RI 'HODQH\ V *ULOO 7KH 0LFN RU 'HODQH\ V 0DUNHW IRU IUHH $ PLQLPXP JLIW FHUWLILFDWH SXUFKDVH DOVR JHWV \RX HQWU\ LQWR D GUDZLQJ IRU RQH RI WKH EHORZ SUL]HV
^ LQ *LIW &HUWLILFDWHV WR 'HODQH\ V *ULOO 7KH 0LFN
^ +DYH D %LWH 6WD\ 7KH 1LJKW +RWHO 'LQQHU
^ 7LFNHWV WR DQ\ ZHHNO\ PHDO VSHFLDO
^ 6SD %XFNV WR EH XVHG DW ' +RWHO 6SD
3DFNDJH ($179 value)
3UL]HV GR QRW LQFOXGH WD[ JUDWXLWLHV RU EHYHUDJHV *LIW FDUG PXVW EH SXUFKDVHG WKURXJK WKH 'HODQH\ +RXVH 2IIHU YDOLG IURP WR 'UDZLQJ ZLOO EH KHOG RQ -DQXDU\ 3125411-01
3 Country Club Road • Holyoke, Massachusetts • 413-532-1800 • www.delaneyhouse.com
HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE 2019
THE REPUBLICAN | MASSLIVE.COM
Embrace delectable holiday scents in seasonal decor
THURSDAY, DECEMBER 5, 2019 | S5
Gifts for Everyone on Your List SX50A
Use a real Christmas tree.
An easy way to create a pine-like scent indoors is to select a real Christmas tree. Ask the tree farm which varieties are the most fragrant. If a fresh tree is not possible, fill a decorative basket with pine cones and evergreen boughs for that woodsy appeal.
Create a seasonal scented simmer.
Take to the stove to make a homemade air infusion from ingredients in and around the house. Simmer pine branches, citrus peels, vanilla, nutmeg, cinnamon, and whatever else can be placed in a pot or slow cooker with water. The scents will permeate the house for hours if enough water is added to the mixture.
Make holiday sachets.
Some of the same ingredients for the holiday simmer can be dried and sewn into sachets. Add ribbon and hang on real or artificial trees. Or tuck the pouches into various areas around the house.
Experiment with scented candles.
Natural food stores and other retailers may sell essential oils, which can be diluted and sprayed on surfaces or into the air. Exercise caution around upholstery, or test for staining before use.
Spend more time in the kitchen.
Add delicious scents to the home by way of freshly baked goods or holiday meals. Nothing beats the smell of cookies right out of the oven, and the scents can linger for hours.
Make beeswax ornaments.
Add scented oils to melted beeswax and pour into molds. Hang these creations as ornaments on trees or in other areas of the home.
799
$ Gift Certificates Available
from
from
499
$
2-Stage $ from
699
Rt.202 Granby, MA • 413 467-3499 • www.allpowersales.com
Gifts of Good Taste! Let Atkins deliver a Specialty Gift Basket or Gift Box to friends and family locally or anywhere in the U.S. Food gifts are hand selected and packed to preserve freshness. Fruit Speciialty Gift Baskets plus assortments of apples, cheeses, maple syrup, honey, butter, jellies, coffees and teas, fudge, cookies, bakery treats and more. Save time this holiday season with Savory Suppers! Make a month’s worth of meals in less than 2 hours!
Craft some “gingerbread” ornaments.
A mixture of cinnamon, applesauce and glue can be used to make ornaments or gift tags that resemble gingerbread cookies, and these ornaments have more staying power than actual cookies.
Design a pretty pomander.
Stud an orange with cloves. Cut off the top of the orange and hollow out a place for a small tea light. The warmth of the flame will produce more scent.
Shop Local, Eat Local, Be Local!
at the CORNER OF RTE. 116 & BAY RD. South Amherst, MA 01002 (413) 253-9528 OR (800) 594-9537 www.atkinsfarms.com
Please call to order or order online • Shipping orders must be received by December 10th
03098829
Scented candles can be found at various stores during the holiday season. Select among popular holiday aromas like pine, cinnamon, apples, and Christmas cookie varieties.
Utilize essential oils.
Ariens Snow Blower
HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE 2019
S6 | THURSDAY, DECEMBER 5, 2019
THE REPUBLICAN | MASSLIVE.COM
Christmas tree tips and tricks Give the gift of a lasting memory this Holiday Season.
Custom Personalized items as low as $15 ✴ Free Shipping on orders $50+ Order by December 13th to receive your order for Christmas. To place an order contact: Adriana Rua (413) 626-6564 Or go online: Adrianarua.magnabilities.com/party/30485 3125592-01
& GR GREENHOUSE Rte. 202 2 East E State St., Granby MA 4 413-467-3794
Now Open for the Holidays
Christmas Trees Poinsettias
• Even though it is tempt-
ing to buy a real tree as early as possible, their shelf life is limited even with the best care. Dural Christmas Tree Farm advises that, under the best conditions, a real tree should last up to four weeks before drying out.
• Wreaths, Center pieces • Kissing Balls, Bows, Boughs, Cemetery Logs
All major credit cards accepted A
Kissing Balls Made to Order
• Consider the needles
when looking for a real tree. Pull your hand toward your body along the branches. If many needles fall off, the tree is past its peak. 3 1 25 3 90 -0 1
Mon - Sun. 8am-7pm M
Christmas trees are an iconic symbol of the holiday season. Whether they are personal trees nestled in the corner of a living room for families to enjoy or towering evergreens serving as the focal point of a town square, Christmas trees are a wonder to behold. Many people have fond memories of time spent around the Christmas tree sharing gifts and family traditions. Live trees and their pine-like aroma can be especially nostalgic trees to include in holiday plans. The National Christmas Tree Association says that approximately 25 to 30 million real Christmas trees are sold in the United States every year. While freshly cut trees can be particularly beautiful and aromatic additions to the season, they require a bit more work than artificial trees in order to remain beautiful and thrive throughout the holiday season.
• Think about the room in which the tree will be located. Leave at least 6
inches between the tip of the tree and the ceiling, accounting for the height of the tree stand as well.
• If needle retention
is a goal, the Scotch pine variety has the best needle retention and a high survival rate, lending to its popularity, offers Precision Tree and Landscape. Douglas fir and balsam fir are other durable trees.
• If possible, buy a freshly cut tree from a reputable nursery or tree farm, advises The Old Farmer’s Almanac. Many pre-cut trees sold elsewhere were likely cut weeks before and may not be fresh.
• Cut the bottom of the tree trunk before bringing it home to facilitate the uptake of fresh water daily. Trees can absorb as much as a gallon of water in a day, so make sure the tree gets fresh water every day. • Keep trees away from as many heat sources as possible and away from direct sunlight to prolong longevity.
• According to Karabin
Farms in Connecticut, to make a Christmas tree last longer, boil a gallon of water and then dissolve one cup of sugar in the water. Allow to cool. After freshly cutting the trunk, pour in the warm sugar water. Continue to add fresh, cool, plain water to the tree stand afterward. Once needles begin to fall off with frequency, the tree is reaching its prime. Remove it so it does not become a fire hazard.
HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE 2019
THE REPUBLICAN | MASSLIVE.COM
THURSDAY, DECEMBER 5, 2019 | S7
Do you remember your first bike on Christmas morning?
e ks
Bicycles Make Great Gifts! • GIANT • NORCO • SE • KINK • OVER 400 BIKES IN STOCK
Prepare the fireplace for holiday decorating the fireplace and chimney inspected and cleaned at least once per year. Even though it may be picturesque, do not place wrapped packages or gift boxes near the fireplace, as they tend to be highly combustible. Keep presents and other flammable items at least three feet away from the fireplace. Do not be tempted to dispose of wrapping paper, boxes or even a Christmas tree in the fireplace. Wrapping paper contains additives that make it burn at high temperatures. A Christmas tree hasn’t been properly seasoned and could be a fire hazard and potentially contribute to excessive smoke and creosote.
Fireplaces are often a focal point of holiday decorating and entertaining. Homeowners who want to incorporate their fireplaces into their holiday decor must emphasize safety when doing so.
GIFT CARDS
LAYAWAY
863 Montgomery St. Chicopee, MA • 413-533-8680 p 7am-7pm p Monday-Sunday y y - Sorryy No Checks Open
Wreaths - all sizes ✳ Bows ✳ Poinsettias ✳ Kissing Balls ✳ Roping ✳ Cemetery Logs & Pots ✳ Bundles of Boughs ✳ Centerpieces
Florist Quality
POINSETTIAS CHRISTMAS TREES Serving you for 3 generations! Gift Certificates Are Available
03099281
Keep decorations that kids will be tempted to touch away from the fireplace so kids do not hang out near the heat and open flames.
Highlan Hardware & Bike Shop Highland 917 Hampden St., Holyoke, MA 539-9314 • Daily 8-6, Saturday 8-5 www.highlandbike.com
3125200-01
A
jolly holiday season can be made even more merry with a roaring fire. Homeowners often build holiday tableaus around the fireplace to serve as festive backdrops. The mantle and the fireplace itself also may be a prime spot to dedicate to decorating this time of year. Even though Christmas tree fires are rare, according to the U.S. Fire Administration, when they do occur they’re likely to be serious. That is why trees and other flammable decorations need to be kept clear of gas and wood-burning fireplaces and stoves. In addition, many other guidelines should be heeded to ensure fireplaces and holiday decor safely coexist this season. Read labels on decorative items carefully before decorating. Be sure to only select items that are flame-resistant or retardent. Cherished collectibles and other items should always be kept far away from open flames and heat. It pays to have a fireplace inspected and cleaned for use prior to operation, advises Doherty Insurance Agency. Rely on a trained chimney sweep, and have
Indoor Bicycle Trainers Maple Hardwood Toboggans & Sleds Radio Flyer Wagons TTrikes & Balance Bikes
S8 | THURSDAY, DECEMBER 5, 2019
HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE 2019
THE REPUBLICAN | MASSLIVE.COM
Holiday hosting
in small spaces
G
atherings of family and friends are a big part of the holiday season. Hosting such gatherings can be a great way to show loved ones how much you appreciate them, and hosting also saves hosts the trouble of traveling during one of the most hectic travel seasons of the year. When hosting a large crowd at home, space can be a difficult hurdle to clear. However, a few helpful strategies can help space-starved hosts pull off a holiday soiree where everyone is comfortable.
Pare down the menu.
Holiday feasts don’t have to resemble medieval banquets with excessive amounts of food and drink. Hosts with small kitchens and tiny dining quarters can pare down the menu, limiting offerings to just a single entree and a few simple side dishes, so everyone feels comfortable at the table and has ample room to eat. A small menu also gives hosts more time to spend with their loved ones during the festivities.
Christmas Eve 11:30AM-8:30PM
Christmas Day
Don’t overdo it on drinks, either.
11:30AM-3:30PM Ask About Gift Cards
3125111-01
1068 Riverdale St. • West Springfield, MA 413-827-9353 • calswoodfiredgrill.com
When planning the drinks menu, avoid offering cocktails, which take time to prepare and often require guests to visit the kitchen for refrigerated ingredients. Limit drinks to wine, beer, water, and soft drinks,
storing cold beverages in a cooler kept outside on a front or back porch or in an area outside the kitchen so cooks can work without interruption.
Move some furniture.
If your main living space is small, consider moving some bulky furniture into a bedroom or office where guests won’t be spending time. Then make better use of the open living space by placing folding chairs or other accommodations to ensure there’s ample seating for everyone. A single recliner can only be enjoyed by one person, but removing it from a room may create enough space for as many as three folding chairs.
Go small on decorations. If you know you’ll be hosting in advance of the holiday season, decorate with guests in mind. That might mean skipping a six-foot Christmas tree in favor of one that takes up less space. Avoid leaving any fragile decorations out, as adults or overexcited kids may knock them over as they try to navigate a cramped space. Holiday hosting can be fun, even in small spaces. A few simple tricks can make even the smallest spaces accommodating.
HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE 2019
THE REPUBLICAN | MASSLIVE.COM
THURSDAY, DECEMBER 5, 2019 | S9
Information to include on holiday party invitations T
echnology has changed nearly every facet of everyday life, and that includes holiday hosting. Whereas hosts once had to worry about getting invitations stamped, sealed and sent out on time, e-invitations, often referred to as “evites,” have simplified the invitation process immensely. Hosts can still send invitations the old-fashioned way, but they also can now use preexisting templates to design holiday invitations in minutes and send them out to all of their guests. While the way invitations are sent has changed immensely, the information to include on the invites has stayed the same. If it’s been awhile since you sent a holiday invitation, this refresher course on what to include on your invites can ensure guests know all they need to know about your holiday party.
Date and time: The
date and time of the party should be clearly stated on the invitation. The holiday season is one of the busiest social seasons of the year, with family gatherings and office parties dotting December schedules. Leave nothing to the imagination on your invitation and clearly indicate the day of your party and what time it begins.
Location: It might seem
Degree of formality:
Guests will want to know if the party is formal or casual, so let them know via the invitation. If no dress code information is included, guests will likely assume the affair is casual.
Menu: If you plan to serve
a meal, include information about the menu on the invitation and request that guests with specific food allergies inform you or bring their own food to the party.
Theme: Holiday parties
sometimes have themes. So if you want everyone to dress up as a favorite holiday movie character or if you want to throw a Santa-themed soiree, make sure to include such information on the invitation.
Accommodations: The U.S. Department of Transportation notes that, each year, hundreds of people die in drunk driving crashes during the week between Christmas and New Year’s Day. If you plan to serve alcohol, let guests know on the invitation and let them know you will arrange for safe transportation home, if necessary. Ridesharing apps have made it easier than ever to get home safely, but hosts should still keep the phone numbers of local taxi companies on hand and make sure guests rooms are ready to accommodate guests who get a little too festive. Party invitations have changed dramatically over the last couple of decades. But they still serve as a guests’ primary source of party information.
56 Southwick Rd Westfield, MA 01085 (413)568-9000 Voted “Best Day Spa” for the past 7 years!
Holiday Gift Ideas
75min Tulasara Facial & Eye Tx………..$100save$17 Spa Manicure & Spa Pedicure……….$105save $13 Body Polish & 50min Massage…....$125save$10 Day of Relaxation……………..$364 Gift Certificates & On-line Reservations Available 24/7 @ pufferdayspa.com
Receive a free $100 gift card to Andrew Grant Diamond Center with every $200 Puffer gift card purchase*! Restrictions apply
3125115-01
like a no-brainer, but don’t forget to include the location of the party on your invitation. Even if you annually host a holiday party at home, include your full address so guests, especially new invitees, have
something to enter into their vehicle GPS systems.
HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE 2019
S10 | THURSDAY, DECEMBER 5, 2019
THE REPUBLICAN | MASSLIVE.COM
Give the Past as a Present With our Special Holiday Prices
$24.95 Reg. $39.95
$24.95 Reg. $34.95
$24.95
$24.95
$24.95
$24.95
Reg. $39.95
Reg. $39.95
Reg. $44.95
Reg. $44.95
Sponsored by
$29.95 Reg. $44.95
$29.95
Great gifts for holidays, birthdays and anniversaries.
Reg. $44.95
Sp Spon Sponso Sponsored ponsor ponsore onso so ored red by re by C&W Realty, Rocky’s Ace Hardware and Gagliarducci Construction
The books can be purchased in person at The Republican’s offices at 1860 Main Street, Springfield or online at http:/bit.ly/repubbooks
HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE 2019
THE REPUBLICAN | MASSLIVE.COM
THURSDAY, DECEMBER 5, 2019 | S11
A NOT SO CIVIL WAR
Western Massachusetts at Home and in Battle V O L U M E I I • J U LY 1 8 6 3 – R E C O N S T R U C T IO N
$29.95
By Wayne E. Phaneuf and Joseph Ca Carvalho arvalho III
Reg. $44.95
Volume I
$29.95
$19.95
Reg. $44.95
Volume II
Purchase the Civil War two-book set at the special price of $50.00
$34.95
POLISH HERITAGE A HISTORY OF A PROUD COMMUNITY IN WESTERN MASSACHUSETTS
Reg. $44.95
$34.95 Reg. $44.95
The latest book in The Republican Heritage Book Series Sponsored by
Bay Path University • Springfield Museums
Buy all 13 books for only $295.00! Save $179.00 off the Retail Price
The books can be purchased in person at The Republican’s offices at 1860 Main Street, Springfield or online at http:/bit.ly/repubbooks
HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE 2019
S12 | THURSDAY, DECEMBER 5, 2019
How to make holiday wreaths the easy way
Annual Holiday Traditions at Inn on Boltwood
T
Friday Live Holiday Jazz Every Friday, December 6th to December 27th 6 pm – 9 pm
Saturday Holiday Tea Enjoy Classical Harp Music Every Saturday, November 24th to January 11th 1 pm – 4 pm
Sunday Brunch with Santa Enjoy Fun Festivities with Santa Every Sunday, December 1st to December 22nd 10:30 am – 2:30 pm
Christmas Eve Dinner
Tuesday, December 24th | 5 pm – 9 pm
Christmas Breakfast
Wednesday, December 25th | 7 am – 11 am
Christmas Dinner
Wednesday, December 25th | 11:30 am – 9 pm
New Year’s Eve Dinner
Tuesday, December 31st | 5 pm – 10 pm
E S T.
1926
INN ON
B O LT WO O D A M H E R S T, M A
30 Boltwood Avenue Amherst, MA 01002 413.256.8200 innonboltwood.com
3125533-01
For reservations, call 413.835.2011 Gingerbread Lobby Display & Donation Box for Dakin Humane Society
THE REPUBLICAN | MASSLIVE.COM
here are many different ways to decorate homes and businesses for the holidays. Tall evergreen trees are among the most visible symbols of the holiday season. However, wreaths hung on doors, windows or fences also are ubiquitous this time of year. Wreaths adorn homes primarily during the holidays of Easter and Christmas. Wreaths have also been worn around the head or neck in ceremonial events around the globe for centuries. It is believed the first wreaths date back to ancient Greece and Rome. Members of the Greco-Roman society were known to hand-make ring-shaped items using fresh tree leaves, small fruits, flowers, and twigs. Oftentimes these headdresses symbolized a person’s social status. Others suggest wreaths evolved to become a Christian symbol of immortality. One of the easiest ways to make a wreath is to design it around a circular floral foam form. Gather supplies to make the wreath. For traditional wreaths, supplies will include sprigs of evergreen (real or artificial), ribbon, floral wire, bows, and artificial berries. Working around the foam form, arrange the boughs of evergreen, using the floral wire to wrap or pin into the foam itself. Keep
the layers coming until you get the desired coverage. Embellish with a ribbon or place a bow. The blog A Piece of Rainbow says that creating a wreath jig is an easy way to make a wreath. Cut a dollar-store laundry basket bottom from the top ring to make a template, on which you can place wreath-making materials so they keep their circular form. Use floral wire or natural jute string to tie the materials together. Experiment with fresh evergreen, twigs, holly branches, or whatever materials you choose. Thick card stock also can serve as the wreath template. Attach artificial flowers or leaves, spray snow, ornaments, or other items to the card stock ring with a firm adhesive. Many craft stores sell wreath forms made of natural vines that have been strung in a ring. These can be decorated in their entirety or left a little sparse to let the natural twine show through. Wreaths may seem like complicated creations. But a little imagination and the right materials is all it takes to create a homemade wreath.
HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE 2019
THE REPUBLICAN | MASSLIVE.COM
THURSDAY, DECEMBER 5, 2019 | S13
24 th Annual CLASSIC RAFFLE
1st E PRIZ
WIN THIS CAR!
1964 CORVETTE
How to simplify holiday hosting
Choose the right menu.
The right menu can go a long way toward making hosting easier on the day of the party. Various factors, such as food allergies and the size of the guest list, must be considered when planning a holiday menu. As hosts scour cookbooks for the right foods, look for recipes that don’t require everything to be done on the day of the party. Prep work tends to take as much, if not more, time as cooking the foods. So look for recipes that allow you to do most, if not all, of that prep work in the days leading up to the party.
Clean the common areas.
Guests likely won’t be spending time in every room of your house during the party. So when it comes time to clean, focus on the common areas where guests will be. Living rooms, dining areas and restrooms should garner the bulk of your attention when cleaning. If guests might be wandering outdoors, make sure leaves and dirt have been cleaned
— SECOND PRIZE —
1995 HARLEY-DAVIDSON Mileage: 33,666. Valued at $6,500
off of patios and decks.
Plan a playlist in advance.
Expect to be busy on the day of the party, even if the party is catered or all the food prep was done long before the first guest arrived. Because you will be busy welcoming guests, you likely won’t have time to set the musical tone for the party, so do so in advance of the big day. If you want to stick to holiday music, many streaming apps offer various stations that play holiday music exclusively. Simply choose a station you like and then begin playing music when the first guest arrives.
Make a list of supplies and check it twice.
About two weeks before the party, sit down and make a thorough list of everything you expect to need. Include food, beverages, dining needs (i.e., plates and silverware), and entertainment. A couple of weeks before the party, purchase items that won’t spoil, such as beverages like water, soda, wine, and beer and extra utensils if necessary. Doing so saves time during your grocery store trip the week of the party. Holiday hosts can take several steps in the days leading up to their parties to make hosting easier once guests arrive.
+YH^PUN! +LJLTILY 4PKUPNO[ H[ [OL 4HQLZ[PJ ;OLH[LY
The winner need not be present at drawing. Taxes, license, registration, and transportation are the responsibility of the winner. ;OPZ YHMĂ…L PZ YLNPZ[LYLK ^P[O [OL *P[` VM >LZ[ :WYPUNĂ„LSK 4( HUK [OL *VTTVU^LHS[O VM 4HZZHJO\ZL[[Z
PURCHASE $10 RAFFLE TICKETS FOR YOUR CHANCE TO WIN! Order Online at www.majestictheater.com MAJESTIC THEATER • ,ST :[YLL[ >LZ[ :WYPUNÄLSK 4( ‹
CV Joints & Axles • Ball Joints • Oil Changes • Coolant • Brakes
A
s the day of their holiday parties draws near, hosts can take several steps to make the day of the party easier, allowing them to spend more time with their family and friends.
;OPZ PZ ;/, UPJLZ[ *VY]L[[L ^L OH]L YHMĂ…LK VMM PU `LHYZ 9P]LYZPKL 9LK ^P[O H ISHJR PU[LYPVY HUK ZVM[ [VW 5\TILYZ TH[JOPUN *0 /7 LUNPUL HUK ZWLLK [YHUZTPZZPVU 9\UZ HUK WLYMVYTZ NYLH[ ^P[O ZVSPK MYHTL )VK` OHZ OHK VUL YLWHPU[ [OH[ ZWHYRSLZ 5L^ YHKPHS [PYLZ ^P[O VYPNPUHS *VY]L[[L ZWPUULY O\IJHWZ Mileage 71,860. Valued at $46,800.
LEASE ? ENDING
UY DON’T B ! W NE W! CALL NO
FA INSPE IL C FOR B TION AL TIRES D ? DON’T BUY NEW CALL N ! OW!
All tires mounted and balanced for FREE!
HUGE SELECTION OF USED TIRES Over 15,000 Tires in Stock!
Go USED & SAVE money On Your Favorite Name Brand Tires! “USED TIRES NEVER LOOKED SO GOOD�
HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE 2019
S14 | THURSDAY, DECEMBER 5, 2019
THE REPUBLICAN | MASSLIVE.COM
Tips for successful +2/,'$<
office Secret Santa exchanges
7 2 *2 0(18
DINNERS FEED UP TO 12 PEOPLE
HOLIDAY PARTY PACKAGE
+2/,'$< 3$57< 3$&.$*( (FEEDS 10-15 PEOPLE) )(('6 3(23/(
1. ROAST TURKEY & GLAZED VIRGINIA HAM $175 + tax 7$; 7$; $YDLODEOH WR ,QFOXGHV PDVKHG SRWDWRHV VWXIILQJ DQG JUDY\ 7XUNH\ * Available 12/24/19 to 12/31/19 â&#x20AC;˘ &KHHVH &UDFNHU 3ODWWHU ZLOO EH FRRNHG QHHGV WR EH UHKHDWHG KRXUV â&#x20AC;˘ Cheese & Cracker Platter â&#x20AC;˘ 9HJHWDEOH 'LS 3ODWWHU â&#x20AC;˘ Vegetable & Dip Platter 2. SEASONED PRIME RIB ROAST â&#x20AC;˘ %UXVFKHWWD 3ODWWHU â&#x20AC;˘ Bruschetta Platter 7$; â&#x20AC;˘ 3ODWWHUV RI +RUV '¡RHXYUHV KHDW â&#x20AC;˘ Platters of Hors Dâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;oeuvres VHUYH LQFOXGH RI HDFK Seafood ,QFOXGHV PDVKHG SRWDWRHV DX MXV DQG FUHDP\ (heat & serve) include 25 of KRUVHUDGLVK VDXFH VWXIIHG PXVKURRP FDSV PLQL 3. SURF AND TURF 7$; *ULOOHG SHWLW ILOHWV DQG EDNHG VWXIIHG MXPER VKULPS ZLWK GUDZQ EXWWHU ,QFOXGHV PDVKHG SRWDWRHV 0DGHLUD ZLQH VDXFH DQG FUHDP\ KRUVHUDGLVK VDXFH ALL 3 OPTIONS COME WITH THE FOLLOWING: ¡ 6KULPS ZLWK FRFNWDLO VDXFH ¡ +RUVHUDGLVK FKHGGDU FKHHVH VSUHDG DQG FUDFNHUV ¡ &DHVDU VDODG ZLWK JDUOLF FURXWRQV ¡ *UHHQ %HDQV ¡ 5ROOV DQG EXWWHU ¡ &KHHVHFDNH ZLWK 5DVSEHUU\ &KRFRODWH *DQDFKH
each: Seafood stuffed mushroom FKLFNHQ FRUGRQ EOHX YHJHWDEOH caps, mini chicken cordon bleu, SRWVWLFNHUV ZLWK JLQJHU VR\ vegetable potstickers with ginger ,WDOLDQ PHDWEDOOV & soy, Italian meatballs.
1R 6XEVWLWXWLRQV 2UGHUV PXVW EH VXEPLWWHG E\ )ULGD\ 'HFHPEHU 2UGHUV ZLOO EH UHDG\ IRU SLFN XS DW WKH 'HODQH\ +RXVH RQ IURP ² DP 'LVFRXQWV DQG JLIW FDUGV DUH QRW YDOLG ZLWK WKLV RIIHU
7KH 'HODQH\ +RXVH ZLOO EH FORVHG IRU WKH +ROLGD\ DW QRRQ
3126209-01
3 COUNTRY CLUB ROAD
|
H O LY O K E , M A
|
(413) 532-1800
|
W W W. D E L A N E Y H O U S E . C O M
T
and exchange gifts is never a good idea. Give guests the option to participate ask them to indicate if they will or wonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t when they RSVP.
he holiday season provides plenty of opportunities to socialize. Holiday celebrations are sometimes akin to family reunions, but friends also tend to celebrate together in December. Such celebrations sometimes include different groups of friends, and that may require hosts to do a little extra to break the ice so everyone relaxes and has a good time. Secret Santa gift exchanges can make for a great ice breaker, even if guests are buying gifts for people they donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t know. If you plan to make Secret Santa part of your holiday party this year, consider these tips to ensure it goes off smoothly.
Figure out a budget that works for everyone. There are plenty of gifts to be had for $20 and under. Gag gifts or â&#x20AC;&#x153;dollar storeâ&#x20AC;? gift themes can ensure no one goes overboard in terms of dollar value.
Start planning early.
Enlist a digital helper.
Hosts likely know everyone coming to their party, so they should take the lead and organize the Secret Santa exchange. Let guests know as early as possible, even including the information in the party invitations, so they have time to shop.
Make it optional.
Forcing people to mingle
Set a reasonable gift limit.
Consider a wish list.
Asking participants to fill out wish lists ensures that their Secret Santa buddy will have an idea where to start shopping. Technology can make organizing Secret Santa exchanges even easier. Elfster is an online gift exchange app that can help hosts effectively organize their Secret Santa parties. Fun is key to Secret Santa exchanges, so make sure to keep things lighthearted when planning the party and exchanging gifts.
HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE 2019
THE REPUBLICAN | MASSLIVE.COM
THURSDAY, DECEMBER 5, 2019 | S15
Premium Beef Jerky
Great Stocking Stuffer! G Including Bow Wow Jerky for Dogs
Wrapping gifts is a very old tradition
115% OFF WITH CODE: HOLIDAY15 Applies to Internet Orders Only
One coupon code per order.
3126177-01 312617 31261 33126 12617 1261 112 2617 261 226 617 661 17777-01 7-0 -01 --0 0011
BC and ended in AD 668. The Japanese tradition of furoshiki, which can be traced back to the 17th century and possibly as far back as AD 710, involves using a traditional wrapping cloth to transport certain items, including gifts. As for the gift wrap familiar to today’s holiday celebrants, that traces its origins to the early 1900s. The Children’s Museum of Indianapolis® notes that Eli Hyman and Morris Silverman founded the first gift wrap company in the United States in 1903. Unfortunately for gift givers back then, adhesive tape had not yet been invented in 1903, and wouldn’t be for another 27 years.
Order Online at whipcityjerky.com
Visit Our Store 271 Elm Street, 1st Floor, Westfield, MA ~ 413.568.2050
3125540-01
T
he holiday season is rife with tradition. One of the most recognizable traditions involves wrapping gifts. While the wrapping paper many gift givers use today is a relatively recent phenomenon, the tradition of wrapping gifts is centuries old, with some historians even suggesting it dates back to ancient times. The Children’s Museum of Indianapolis® notes that many ancient cultures celebrated various holidays that included exchanging gifts, adding that it’s very likely that, even in ancient times, gifts were wrapped to surprise their eventual recipients. Bojagi is a traditional Korean wrapping cloth that might have begun being used some time during the Three Kingdoms of Korea period, which began in 57
All orders are made fresh
Brighton • Mariposa John Medeiros • Kringle Candle - Professional Framing -
Arts Unlimited A 03 09 9 26 0
Village Commons 25 College Street South Hadley, MA 413-532-7047 www.arts-unlimited.com visit us on facebook!
l u f r e d n o W r a Ye
e h t s ’ t i most
Give the gift of entertaining this year! A delicious meal. The perfect wine. Platters for any holiday gathering… Even a fill up before driving over the river and through the woods to Grandmother’s house.
A Big Y Gift Card is perfect for anyone on your list!
bigy.com
time e of th