Holiday 4 : Favorites

FAVORITES

Hol iday

December 2009

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Holiday Favorites [ December 9, 2009 ]

CROWN POINT • 10851 Broadway • 200 Franciscan Dr. EAST CHICAGO • 4725 Indianapolis Blvd

Round Party Sub Junior King’s Hawaiian Sandwiches

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Fresh Vegetable Tray Taco Fiesta Platter Fresh Fruit & Dip

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Top 6 Meat & Cheese Certified Angus Beef Hormel’s Best Ham & Turkey Platter

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Holiday Favorites [ December 9, 2009 ]

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Absolute Chiropractic Clinic ......................18 18 Allen Landscape Highland .....................43 Almira’s Pastry & Wedding Cake ..................5 Angela’s Wigs .............................................4 Apple Dentistry ...........................................28 Arthur Murray .............................................45 Baums Natural Foods .................................36 Berey Brothers .........................................44 Blythes Athletic .........................................39 Branya’s Bakery ........................................45 Brown Tire Co. ............................................32 Brumms Bloomin Barn ..............................4 Bunch Jewelers .......................................32 Cam Golf ..................................................28 Cartronix .....................................................9 Center For Visual & Performing Arts .......23 Chesterton Feed & Garden ....................46 China Doll Tattoo & Piercing .....................34 Ciao Bella Ristorante ...............................26 Cover-Rite Carpeting ..................................53 Culver Restaurant .......................................40 Daves Camera Mart ...................................49 Dental Assistant Training Scho...................19 Deschamps Eye Care ...............................6 Dixon’s Florist ..........................................23 Donnair Aviation .......................................40 Eagle Aircraft ..............................................31 Mal Midwest Airlink ..................................31 Edible Arrangements .............................34 Engstrom Jewelers ....................................17 The Estate ..................................................49 Fair Oaks Dairy ...........................................50 Firestone Truck/Tire Ctr. .........................27 Flower Cart ...............................................24 Frans Hallmark ........................................36 Gil Drugs ...................................................39 Golf Usa ...................................................39 Grange Insurance ......................................20 Gus Bock Ace Hardware ..........................44 Gus Bock Ace Hardware ..........................46 Harley Davidson Of Valpo .........................53 Heavenly Ham ...........................................28 Hgs Music ................................................49 Highland Jewelers ....................................40

Highland Kiddie Shop ..............................49 49 John Hodson ........................................35 Johnson Cleaning Service ........................44 Kelseys Steak House ..............................31 La Quesadilla Mexican Grill .....................35 Lighthouse Place Premium Outlets ...............8 Louise’s Hallmark ......................................56 Lovings Heating & Cooling .....................27 Luer’s Christmas Trees .............................17 M And M Car Care Center Inc ..................43 Malinich Jewelers .....................................55 Marias Hallmark .......................................46 Mary & Martha Home Accents ...............14 Merrillville Jewelers ................................43 More Fun Sportcards Store ....................14 Mrs. Dornberg’s 24 Carrot Cuisi..................53 Nason’s Appliances ...................................32 Oil Express ................................................18 Painted Penguin .......................................32 Palladium Homes .....................................34 Paramount Painting ...............................19 Pet Supplies Plus ......................................11 Pieces ........................................................45 Portage Commons Merchants ................36 Porter Co. Opera House .............................44 Princess Cafe ...........................................19 R And J Investments ..............................20 Ringo’s Golf Center ................................17 Ron’s Automotive ......................................40 Salisbury Tree Farm ................................49 Sawgrass Market .....................................17 Schererville Family DentiStry .....................31 Seattle Sutton’s Healthy Eating .............46 Shrine Of Christ’s Passion ...........................26 St. John Wine And Spirits ....................31 Strack & Van Til ...........................................2 Teibel’s Restaurant .................................20 Terpstras Sales .........................................50 The Center For Implants Sedation ..............12 Theo’s Steak And Seafood .........................39 Ups Store ...............................................50 Valparaiso Vacuum Co ............................46 Valpo Elks Club #500 ...............................23 Whiting Robertsdale Chamber ....................3

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Holiday Favorites [ December 9, 2009 ]

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Holiday Favorites [ December 9, 2009 ]

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Holiday Favorites [ December 9, 2009 ]

A Special Publication of The Times Media Company

Memories Provide the

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or millennia, the evergreen has been the symbol of this time of year, as a reminder that green and life still prosper even during the darkest, coldest days. The tradition of the Christmas tree was started by the Germans in the 16th century who decorated their trees with, surprisingly enough, lit candles to

By Heather Augustyn : Times Correspondent

symbolize light and life. That tradition came to the United States in the 1700s when German settlers came to Pennsylvania and the surrounding areas and also brought with them their favorite memories of their homeland.

Still today we bring out these favorite traditions around holiday time, perhaps for the same reason early settlers did—to give us a sense of comfort and family closeness. Even in modern times, we have favorites from our own childhood and pass them along to our kids and friends as a way to bond. One of these

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favorite pieces of nostalgia is “A Charlie Brown Christmas” which made its debut in 1965 and airs on network television every holiday season. Hearing Lucy’s request for a “big, shiny aluminum tree... maybe painted pink,” and seeing Charlie’s choice of a tiny scraggily Christmas tree is the stuff of legend. This year marks the 60th anniversary of Charles M. Schulz’s

creation of the Peanuts.

Tina Ramos, manager of Fran’s Hallmark in Merrillville, says the Peanuts are a huge hit this holiday season which is why Hallmark has embraced the tradition. “It’s definitely a favorite. It’s so much of a favorite that Hallmark makes their musical plush Christmas item a Peanuts theme. Snoopy is at the piano and Woodstock is on top of the piano, and it lights up and plays two Christmas songs and the Peanuts Hallmark

the

continued on page 10

Holiday Favorites [ December 9, 2009 ]

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Holiday Favorites [ December 9, 2009 ]

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Holiday Favorites [ December 9, 2009 ]

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The Times Kyle Telechan |

continued from page 7 theme song. Hallmark also produced a 60th anniversary Peanuts ornament this year and some other plush items, like Sally who talks and does a letter to Santa. We all have our memories of things that make you smile and Peanuts has been there for years and we all remember it. People love the tradition and everyone looks forward to that. It’s memories that make it so wonderful,” says Ramos.

A

Hallmark

nother family tradition is decorating the Christmas tree with ornaments that have meaning and significance, such as the memory of a birth in the family, a wedding, or other events or even favorite hobbies. Wendy Bonarigo, assistant manager in training at Maria’s Hallmark in Munster, with another location in Crown Point, says there are families who come to their store every year to purchase collectibles that grow their family tradition. “Many people come every year for our ornaments. We have the Keepsake ornament series that continues every year so we have a large number of people who come to get the next ornament in the series.

We have customers who have been collecting for decades and buy them, whether they have room for them or not. We also have a collectible called Elf on a Shelf which is an elf inside a little story book and I remember seeing it as a child.

It’s an old-time looking elf and you hide

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the elf overnight and the kids try to find it.”

Another favorite holiday show is the movie A Christmas Story which was written by Hammond, Ind. native and author Jean Shepherd. Everyone knows the phrase, “You’ll shoot your eye out,” or has seen the hilarious lamp shaped like a woman’s leg covered in fishnet.

The movie is based in Hammond and the Indiana Welcome Center in Hammond features the exhibit A Christmas Story Comes Home through January 10, 2010.

Hammond resident Leona Parsley, on left, and her friend Helen Austgen view the “Leg Lamp” diorama at the “A Christmas Story” display at the Indiana Welcome Center in Hammond.

Visitors can have their photo taken with Santa on Santa’s Mountain like in the movie, enter contests, and enjoy exhibits of the set.

Holiday cookies are always a favorite this time of year. But sometimes people are just too busy with all the hustle bustle of the season that they just don’t have a couple of hours to spend in the kitchen.

Sylvia Furmanek, manager of Strack and Van Til’s bakery department in Hobart says, “This is the most fabulous time of the year. We get into it and just love it.

This is the most fabulous time of the year. We get into it and just love it. People always buy what they can’t make or don’t have time to make.

”

People always buy what they can’t make or don’t have time to make.” She says that their department carries all of the favorites of the holiday season, especially cookies. “We have our own butter cookie recipe that we make and we decorate the cookies with sprinkles and icing. We have the Star of David, logs, little things we add to the cookies to brighten them up. We also offer anything filled, such as apricot, cherry, and raspberry. Other holiday favorite are our nut rolls, our great fruitcake, fudge, holiday cakes, cupcakes, mini cupcakes, 12-inch cookies we decorate, our kolachkis are a big seller, cream puffs and éclairs, pumpkin pie, pecan pie, apple pie, our breads, buns— anything we can help people out with.”

Chuck Roth, owner of Chesterton Feed & Garden Center says evergreens and Christmas trees are part of the holiday tradition that bring in customers every season. “We carry trees, wreaths, poinsettia, evergreen roping for mantles or doorways, garland that is about three times as thick as the roping and is a mixed green that looks really nice. We do our trees a lot differently than everyone else. They’re all hand groomed and hanging from racks so you can see the shape when you come in and they’re standing in water so they’re nice and fresh. We deliver the trees with a stand and put them in the house and afterwards you call us and we take them out and recycle them. It’s been a great program for us.”

From Peanuts characters to peanut cookies, the holidays are full of fun this season. By keeping one foot rooted in the memories of holiday past, the holiday present and holiday future will be a warm time shared by all.

Sylvia Furmanek Strack and Van Til Bakery Department Manager

Holiday Favorites [ December 9, 2009 ]

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Holiday Favorites [ December 9, 2009 ]

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Q

G E T T H E FAC T S

NWI Times: Today, we’re going to be talking with Dr. Atcha (Sedation Dentistry Expert) about patients who are fearful of the dentist. Very few people enjoy going to the dentist, most don’t mind going in for a cleaning but face it, the majority of us say, “I hate going to the dentist to have dental work performed.”

Beyond this majority of patients who don’t enjoy having dental work but still get it done because of the benefits. I take it that there are many patients out there who not only hate going to the dentist, but their fear level is so high it keeps them away from the dentist, no matter what, is that correct?

A Q A Q

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Q A Q A

Dr. Atcha: Absolutely, in fact, about 145 million Americans don’t go to the dentist at all, mostly because of a previous bad experience—usually as a result of something that happened to them at the dentist decades earlier in childhood. Some are so fearful that it is difficult for them to even pick up the phone and call us to request information that can help.

NWI Times: Medicine has come a long way in the area of pain, what about dentistry?

Dr. Atcha: While regular dental anesthesia or “Novocain” as a lay person would call it, has improved over the years. The best news for those who are fearful is that there is a small category of dentists like me in the profession who have borrowed and adopted techniques and FDA approved medications directly from medical anesthesia so that even the most fearful patient can get through their visit with little or no memory and no pain.

NWI Times: Well, I think most of our readers wouldn’t think about having their appendix removed, tonsils taken out, or of having sinus or laser eye surgery without some form of medical anesthesia. So it makes sense that serious dental treatment or dentistry for the fearful would be best performed with similar methods.

they’ve already heard things before at the dentist like, “I can’t believe you let your teeth get this bad, or, you have really neglected your teeth.” It’s worth repeating that patients with serious problems deserve the same respect as those with perfect teeth without any judgment or blame. Giving them hope and a choice to be able to get their dentistry done comfortably is the best thing possible.

Q A Q A Q A

Dr. Atcha: Who wouldn’t want their dentistry done in the most comfortable way and as fast as possible? Our safe sedation technique is the goal for our patients.

NWI Times: Doctor, let’s go back to that 145 million. That’s a lot! Why do millions say they are afraid, or even say they are terrified of the dentist?

Dr. Atcha: Great question. Let’s face it. Dentistry for a very long time was not as gentle as it can be now. A lot of people developed deep seated fears based on their experience in those days. People with this type of fear often ask themselves “is something wrong with me?” Or “Do I have a psychological problem?” The good news is that the answer is a resounding NO! This response is part of natural “fight or fight response” which is a hard wired protective instinct embedded in everyone’s DNA. Thus, if someone has been hurt in the past creating a negative experience, their instinct tells them to stay away and avoid a situation that reminds them of the bad past experience. Because this is nature at work, a small group of us in the profession realize this and as a result never lecture or put anyone down for having a very natural instinct.

NWI Times: Are there any side effects to the sedation medication Doctor?

Dr. Atcha: A side effect is that these techniques leave you, in most cases, with no memory of your dental visit. This helps to diminish the effect of those past dental experiences that weren’t so great.

NWI Times: Doctor, as many fearful patients have on average do have more serious dental problems than most individuals, how do they take the bad news about their teeth?

Dr. Atcha: Most patients come into this knowing that they have serious dental problems.

More importantly, they don’t want a judgmental attitude about their situation. It’s likely

Q A Q A

NWI Times: What’s the most common concern that you hear from these patients?

Dr. Atcha: One of the biggest complaints is that with previous dental experiences that patient just couldn’t get numb. Often times the dentist had told them…”you can handle it” or “just a little more, I’m almost done”…or “you’re numb, you are just feeling pressure.” Some individual’s teeth are more sensitive than others. With these special techniques, they can be completely comfortable.

NWI Times: How long has it been since your average fearful patient went to the dentist?

Dr. Atcha: My average sedation patient hasn’t been to the dentist for nearly 10 years although it’s not uncommon for me to see someone about once a week who hasn’t been to the dentist in 20 or more years. Many of my patients have covered their mouth with their hands for years when they laughed or smile. Some men grew long mustaches and beards to cover up their teeth so they aren’t embarrassed.

NWI Times: So how does all this work to get the fearful patient through their visits?

Dr. Atcha: The sedation actually starts even before coming to the office with a special medication taken at home about an hour before the appointment. By the time a responsible adult brings them to the office, their anxiety is already greatly reduced. At the office, now that they are less stressed and anxious, other medications can be added via an IV to reach a deeper level of sedation customized to that individual. Once you are relaxed and asleep we do your scheduled dentistry. Some people can even have all their dental care completed in only one sedation appointment. When your visit is over, we use other medications to wake you back up. Patients lose all track of time. I can’t count the number of times that a patient wakes up from a 4 or 5 hour visit and says “that was quick or have you started yet?” For many patients, it’s a dream come true.

NWI Times: Doctor, specifically, who is a good candidate for sedation dentistry?

Dr. Atcha: Adults who have a lot of fear of the dentist or who had a horrible childhood experience. Those that really hate the sounds and smell of the dental office. Especially those who are fearful of getting shots or being around dental needles. Patients with bad gag reflexes. Those embarrassed by the state of their teeth. Those who are also time passed can benefit since what might take 3 or 4 visits with out these techniques can be accomplished in one longer yet comfortable visit for the patient.

NWI Times: Dr. Atcha what is the best way to get in touch with you?

Dr. Atcha: The simplest way is to go to our website at www.SleepDentistIndiana.com. In fact, we have the website set-up so that patients can request information on topics just like the one discussed today by requesting it via email. Of course, our phone number which is 219-227-5084 is also listed on the site. I also have a favor to ask of those reading this today. Some of your readers likely know of someone, a friend, a co-worker, or another family member who may be one of these fearful patients. If that’s the case, please send them to our website as this information could really help them.

Dr. Ivan Atcha • featured on Fox , CNN and Yahoo! News

For more information go to www.SleepDentistIndiana.com or call 219-227-5084 12

Holiday Favorites [ December 9, 2009 ]

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‘These are a few of my favorite things …’

- Duff Goldman

”

Duff Goldman and his staff at Baltimore-based Charm City Cakes star in the Food Network series, “Ace of Cakes.” Duff is also a musician – he plays bass in the indie instrumental band “so I had to…”

A Special Publication of The Times Media Company

What’s your favorite piece of holiday décor?

What makes or breaks the holidays for your home?

A pineapple?

A feather boa?

A peppermint picture frame your son made in 1st grade?

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bout four years ago, I had an idea to decorate the Christmas tree using white feather boas, instead of tinsel or garland or ribbons. And I had a crate full of red lights, so I used those too. After I was done, I thought, “That is the tackiest Christmas tree I’ve ever seen.”

But I just laughed it off. At my annual Christmas party, my friends went crazy for it, so I’ve done it every year as a running joke. When it’s lit up at night it looks like a giant soft-serve strawberry ice cream cone. And during the day, when the lights are off, it looks like a big, old drag queen.

- Clinton Kelly

” ”

Clinton Kelly, co-star of TLC's “What Not To Wear,” enjoys partnerships with Macy’s and QVC, and his most recent book is titled “Freakin’ Fabulous: How to Dress, Speak, Behave, Eat, Drink, Entertain and Generally Be Better than Everyone Else”( Simon Spotlight Entertainment, 2008)

A

small wooden tree ornament in the shape of a mouse. It was made by a family friend when I was a wee lad and it’s been on my Christmas tree every year since. It's the first ornament that goes on our tree every year.

- Alton Brown

Image courtesy of TLC

T

he most potent symbol of “Good Will to All” for me is the pineapple.

Pineapple?! In the 17th century, the pineapple came to symbolize welcome and warm hospitality in the Caribbean and quickly spread to Europe and the American colonies. To this day, you will see pineapples on signs or near doors of homes and shops all over New England. During the holidays, although many people wouldn’t know why, my mom decorates pineapples when we have guests over. This tradition came from colonial Americans who would decorate pineapples for the holidays and would compete with each other for the most Image courtesy of the Food Network lavishly decorated pineapple.

Hmm, food-decorating competition? I can understand that. When I see a pineapple as decoration it makes me happy, not only because of its historical significance but also because I love being with family and friends. It’s amazing that after three centuries, seeing a pineapple still symbolizes a sense of welcome and well-being for so many of us.

Image courtesy of TLC

The holidays just aren’t the holidays without those decorations that bring a smile to your face and the stories that warm your heart.

Top home, food, eco and lifestyle personalities share what makes their holiday homes merry, bright and full of cheer – and it’s not always what you expect.

Alton Brown, star of the Food Network's “Good Eats” series, is currently touring the country for his new cookbook “GOOD EATS: The Early Years” (Stewart, Tabori & Chang, 2009).

Holiday Favorites [ December 9, 2009 ]

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Holiday Favorites [ December 9, 2009 ]

A Special Publication of The Times Media Company

What’s your favorite piece of holiday décor?

Image courtesy of the Food Network

T

T

o me, Christmas is all about childhood memories and recreating them.

I grew up moving around as an Army brat and one of my favorite places to celebrate the holidays was Germany. While living there, my family visited the eternal Christmas town of Rothenburg ob der Tauber. There were holidaydecoration stores lining every street with everything from candles to ornaments, wreaths and more, but my favorite holiday decoration from that trip were these cute woodcarved smoker men. They were often wearing lederhosen or a Santa Claus outfit and they appeared to 'smoke' through incense-filled holes carved into them. At the time, I thought they were a cute and clever way to fill the home with the holiday scents of pine and cinnamon blends, plus they seemed like dolls. To this day I love to see them out among all the other decorations when I visit home for the holidays because they remind me of those years gone past celebrating Christmas abroad.

”

L

he tree – it’s the center of attention during the season and from it all good things come. The season starts with a family trip to a local farm to chop down our own perfect specimen.

The familiar walk in the woods with the kids and grandparents and seemingly endless debate about which tree is perfect makes for great fun and fond memories.

And it’s always nice to see the farmer and the three generations of his family who help out every year.

Once we get it off the car and into the house the smell of sap and evergreen fill the air, a pleasant aroma that stays with us right through to New Year’s. The kids are immediately anxious to decorate the tree, and when that day comes there’s nothing better than their contagious excitement.

And of course, on Christmas morning all eyes and hopes are laid at the base of the tree. It wouldn’t be Christmas without one!

ike most of us, I LOVE the holiday season – everything about it. The cold, the snow, the wind chill and "lake effect" (I grew up in Chicago) – it's all part of what makes the holidays exciting for me. Decorating the house and the tree are definitely part of the process that makes it all one of the best times of the year for me, but its less a specific ornament or decoration than it is a favorite holiday event that has been happening for a few years now at my house that makes me know the holidays are in full swing and that I'm going to have a great time.

I have been throwing my annual Holiday Cookie Party for quite sometime now. It started as a small get-together of just a few friends that couldn't get back home for the holidays.

Everyone brought a dozen of their favorite childhood, homemade cookie and we passed them around and caught up and at the end of the night, everyone went home with the leftovers – if there were any. Well, now it has grown into a huge event but with the same casualness as that first year. The rules are still the same, you have to bring at least a dozen of your favorite holiday cookie and it has to be homemade by your own hands. No store-bought cookies. This makes for interesting conversations amongst the guests who never cook or bake and those who do all the time.

Everyone has got a story or two or three and there's never enough time to tell them all, but we try. Now, there's also never enough time or people to eat all the cookies and everyone must go around the cookie table at least once before they leave with a goodie bag that they have to fill up before they go back home.

It's my favorite way to kick off the holidays. I get the opportunity see people I haven't had a chance to see all year and spend some quality time with one of my favorite things about the season – COOKIES!

”

- Kevin O’Connor

Kevin O’Connor is host of This Old House and Ask This Old House.

- Angelo Surmelis

Sunny Anderson, host of the Food Network's “Cooking For Real,” first debuted on the network in 2005 as a special guest on “Emeril Live.”

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Peter Ross

- Sunny Anderson

”

Angelo Surmelis is currently working on his new furniture line angelo: HOME. An upholstered line of sofas, chairs and ottomans is now in and a new line of bedroom suites will launch this January. Watch Angelo on HGTV for a new holiday decorating ideas special."

Holiday Favorites [ December 9, 2009 ]

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Watch for upcoming holiday sections in The Times every Wednesday through December 16 16

Holiday Favorites [ December 9, 2009 ]

A Special Publication of The Times Media Company

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Hol id ay Local Things to Do; Places to Go HOLIDAY EVENTS ONGOING Santa Claus in Crown Point, Sat noon-4pm, Lower Level Courthouse Shops, Crown Point. 219.663.1800. www. crownpointguide.com. Santa Claus will arrive in town on Nov 27 in a Crown Point fire truck and will bring Mrs. Claus and Elie the Elf with him. Children can share their Christmas wishes and take pictures with Santa every Saturday from Thanksgiving through Christmas as well as the Sunday before the holiday.

THROUGH DEC 25 Christmas Fest, Hensler Nursery, 5715 N 750 E, Hamlet.

574.867.4192. www.henslernurseryindiana. com. Looking for the perfect place to pick out a Christmas tree or wreath? A wide variety of trees are offered at this nursery while swags and new snowflake greens are also available.

Santa will be leading horse wagon rides with real reindeer on the weekends and Christmas gifts are always available in the barn. Once a tree is purchased from this nursery, it can be decorated and entered into Hensler’s 2009 Tree Decorating Contest.

THROUGH JAN 4 Washington Park Festival of Lights, dusk-dawn, Washington Park, 6 on the Lake, Michigan City.219.873.1506. www.michigancityparks. com. More than 5 million Christmas lights will be display for the 19th straight year in the largest free drive-through event in the Midwest. With more than 30 acres of decorations and 40 displays, the American Bus Association has named this one of the top 100 events in North America for the past two years.

THROUGH FEB 28 Ice Skating at Deep River Waterpark, Thurs-Sun., Deep River

DEC 12 Mainstreet Winter Wonderland & Stained Glass Tour, downtown Michigan City. 219.363.1407. www.mcmainstreet.com.

Take a tour of historic downtown Michigan City in a horse-drawn wagon, enjoy the Stained Glass Tour, see free holiday movies and enjoy the sights and sounds of the holidays at these festive Saturdays.

Waterpark, 9001 E US Hwy 30, Crown Point.

219.947.7850. www. lakecountyparks.com. For the first time ever, Deep River Waterpark is open for ice skating. The 14,500 square foot, Deep River Ice Plaza will also have food stands and heated bathrooms to go along with seasonal lighting. Birthday parties are available and seasonal passes will be honored at the park.

DEC 12 Kouts Hometown Christmas Celebration, 8:30am, Birky’s Catering and Banquets, 205 S Main St, Kouts. www.kouts. org. Kicking off at a breakfast with Santa’s Elves in the morning, this event is free to kids first grade and under. In the afternoon, the winner of the town-wide window decorating contest will be announced and the official lighting of the tree will occur. Donations to the Kouts Food Pantry will be accepted.

DEC 10, 17 Twilight Thursdays, 5-8pm, Whiting. Stores will have extended hours on Thursdays throughout December to accommodate holiday shoppers and give them the chance to buy raffle tickets to win a Winter Weekend Getaway in Chicago.

DEC 12 “Porter Express” Christmas Party, 1-3pm, Hawthorne Park Community Center, 500 Ackerman Dr, Porter. www. townofporter.com. Santa Claus will be on hand at this festive and fun-filled afternoon that will feature games, prizes, crafts, cookie decorating, refreshments and holiday music.

DEC 10 Cool Yule, downtown Valparaiso, Memorial Opera House. 219.548.9137. www.popcornfest.org.

Christmas concert with Chicago jazz singer Spider Saloff.

Scrooge, the Musical will be performed at the Memorial

DEC 11-13 Come Home Opera House in Valparaiso this weekend and next. this performance tells the age-old tale of ebenezer Scrooge and his for the Holidays, Whiting. visit from three ghosts on Christmas eve.

219.659.0292. This holiday celebration will feature a Christmas parade, Whiting Park Festival Orchestra & Chorus.

Santa and Mrs. Claus, train show, decorated Dec 11-13: Hi-Rail Modular Club Christmas home tour and holiday pops concert with the Train Show; Dec 12-13: Santa Pause.

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DEC 13 Jingle Bell Run/Walk for Arthritis, 8am registration, Purdue University Calumet, FRC Building, 2300 173rd St, Hammond.

312.372.2080. www.hammondjinglebellrun. kintera.org. A 5K course will greet runners and walkers young and old at this special holiday event. Participants can tie jingle bells to their shoelaces, wear festive costumes and join in the Arthritis Foundation’s mission to prevent, control and cure arthritis in the true spirit of giving. This year’s race will honor 14-year-old twins Brandie and Brianna Lorenzen, who have been living with juvenile rheumatoid arthritis for most of their lives. continued on page 21

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Holiday Favorites [ December 9, 2009 ]

A Special Publication of The Times Media Company

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Holiday Favorites [ December 9, 2009 ]

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Holiday Favorites [ December 9, 2009 ]

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continued from page 18 DEC 13 Lunch with Mrs. Claus, 11:30am1:3pm, Centennial Park Banquet Facility, 9851 Calumet Ave, Munster. 219.836.PARK. www.munster.org. Enjoy an early afternoon lunch with Mrs. Claus as she plays games with the children and shares stories about Santa, Rudolph and the rest of the reindeer, as well as a special message from Santa. The last day to register for this event is Dec 7.

gourmet-style dinner, complimentary party favors, a champagne toast at midnight and breakfast afterward.

specials of Perry Como and Andy Williams, Hammond’s own holiday tradition features original vocal arrangements and commercials from the 1950s and ‘60s.

DEC 11-13, 18-20 Scrooge, The Musical, The Memorial Opera House, 104 E Indiana Ave, Valparaiso. 219.548.9137. www. memorialoperahouse.com. This performance tells the age-old tale of Ebenezer Scrooge and his visit from three ghosts on Christmas Eve, but songs such as “I Hate Christmas” and “Make the Most of This World” put a festive twist on tradition.

DEC 16 Holiday Cookie Decorating, 4:305:30pm, Community Park Social Center, 8751 Lions Club Dr, Munster. 219.836.PARK. www.munster.org. Children ages 6 to 10 can decorate a dozen sugar cookies in the shape of candy canes, Christmas trees, snowflakes and more with icing and candies. All supplies will be provided for a registration fee that can be paid up until Dec 11.

DEC 31 Grande Finale, 5pm-1am, downtown Crown Point. Various family fun takes place around the downtown square, including a magic show, pizza party and a dance party with Sponge Bob Square Pants.

There will be jazz music for adults and more. The night will conclude the city’s 175th anniversary when a time capsule will be closed and buried.

DEC 16 Senior Citizens Only Holiday Party, noon-3pm, Hammond Civic Center, 5825 S Sohl Ave, Hammond. www. gohammond.com. For area seniors aged 55 years and older, this party features a live band, dancing, snacks, nonalcoholic beverages and door prizes. Dec 2: Deadline to preregister and pay the $12 ticket price at the Hammond Civic Center Business Office, Mon-Fri 8am-6:45pm.

DEC 31 New Year’s Eve Fireworks, Main Square Park, Highland. www.highlandparks.org.

Bring the family to enjoy the fireworks display.

Noisemakers will be distributed and refreshments will be served.

DEC 17 ‘Twas the Night Before Christmas, 6:30-7:30pm, Centennial Park Clubhouse, 9701 Calumet Ave, Munster. www.munster. org. Families can enjoy milk and cookies while listening to a reading of ‘Twas the Night Before Christmas around the fireplace.

There is also a festive candy cane hunt for the children.

DEC 31 New Year’s Eve Party, 6:30pm, Porter County Expo Center, 215 E Division Rd, Valparaiso. 219.464.0133.

This event features dinner, an open bar and dancing.

Tickets are $50.

DEC 19 Yuletide Open House, 11am1pm, downtown Lowell. 219.696.6487. www.shoplowellindiana.com. Experience a Christmas past as Lowell’s historic downtown shopping and dining district features a holiday shopping extravaganza in an old fashioned setting. Find antique shops, jewelry, modern clothing, themed restaurants and more in the vintage turn of the last century buildings.

Many locations offer free gift wrapping and Frosty the Snowman will make an appearance to hand out candy canes.

JAN 6 Twelfth Night, 6:30pm, 117th & Center Sts, Whiting. This beautiful tradition is filled with song, story and the Christmas tree bonfire as residents are encouraged to start the year out right. The King or Queen of Whiting will be crowned and the winner of the Whiting City Flower Contest will be announced.

DEC 20 Marilyn’s Bakery 21st Annual Cookie Walk, 10am-4pm, 8960 E Ridge Rd, Hobart. 219.962.BAKE. www.marilynsbakery. com. This annual event is the perfect solution for those who have gotten too busy to bake during the holidays. Walk among the platters of homemade cookies available for $12 per pound or take the opportunity to delight in some traditional English toffee for $15 per pound.

DEC 31 9th Annual New Year’s Eve Celebration, 7pm-2am, Halls of St. George, 905 E Joliet St, Schererville. 219.865.9411.

Celebrate the coming of the new year with dancing, music by Northwest Indiana’s premiere show band, Together, a five-hour open bar for those 21 years and older, a

DEC 12-13 Candy Cane Express, noon5pm, Hesston Steam Museum, 1201 E 1000 N, LaPorte. 219.778.2783. hesston.org. The Candy Cane Express will be running the first two weekends of the month, allowing visitors to celebrate an old-time children’s Christmas.

Kids can ride the trains and visit with Santa Claus. Also, the museum will be running a Toys for Tots drive in which people who donate an unwrapped toy to the U.S. Marine Corps can receive a free train ride.

Mark your calendar and bring the kids Holiday Cookie Decorating, December 16 at the Community Park Social Center in Munster. Children ages 6 to 10 can decorate a dozen sugar cookies.

PERFORMANCES, EXHIBITS AND ARTS THROUGH DEC 20 The Christmas Schooner, The Theatre at the Center, Center for the Visual and Performing Arts, 1040 Ridge Rd, Munster. 219.836.3255. www. theatreatthecenter.com. Based on the true story of a Michigan shipping captain who braves the deadly winter weather to bring Christmas trees to homesick German American families in turn-of-the-century Chicago, The Christmas Schooner is a truly original holiday musical.

THROUGH JAN 10 A Christmas Story Comes Home, South Shore Convention and Visitors Authority, 7770 Corinne Dr, Hammond. 219.989.7979. www. achristmasstorycomeshome.com. Six animated displays depicting scenes from A Christmas Story will be showcased at the South Shore Convention and Visitors Authority. The scenes, which debuted in the windows of

A Special Publication of The Times Media Company

Macy’s in New York City, feature some of the beloved characters and locations of the movie. In addition to viewing the displays, kids can also participate in various events, including the “Mommy’s Little Piggy” eating contest, “Oh Fuuudge!” relay race and photos with Santa atop “Santa’s Mountain” before sliding to the ground just like Ralphie does in the film.

DEC 10-13 Greetings!, Footlight Players, 1705 Franklin St, Michigan City.

219.874.4035. www.footlightplayers.org. This play for all seasons really rings true during the holidays. Telling the story of Andy, who brings his atheist fiancé home to meet his Catholic family on Christmas Eve only to watch them overreact. It takes an ancient, wise and witty spirit to heal the family in the nick of time for a wonderful holiday.

DEC 10 Holiday Pops, 7:30pm, Star Plaza Theatre, I-65 & US 30, Merrillville.

219.836.0525. www.nwisymphony.org.

Even Santa joins in on the mix of classic and contemporary holiday music from the Indiana Symphony Chorus at this family favorite tradition featuring a chorus-led carol sing-along.

DEC 11-13 Fabulous 50s Christmas, Fri & Sat 8pm, Sun 2pm, Towle Community Theater, 5205 Hohman Ave, Hammond. 219.937.8780. www.towletheater.org. Honoring the Christmas

DEC 12 Wynonna – A Classic Christmas Tour, 8pm, Blue Chip Casino, 777 Blue Chip Dr, Michigan City. 219.879.7711, 888.879.7711. www.bluechipcasino.com.

Partnering with the Palmetto State quartet to put attendees in the holiday spirit, this concert will feature popular songs like “Santa Claus is Coming to Town,” “Winter Wonderland,” and “White Christmas” as well as some of Wynonna’s own holiday creations.

DEC 12-13 Holiday Celebration of the Arts, 10am-5pm Sat, 11am-5pm Sun, Schoolhouse Shop, 278 E 1500 N, Chesterton.

219.926.1551. www.schoolhouseshop.com.

Media ranges from crafts and custom jewelry to fine art paintings and drawings to metal sculpture and wood turning at this indoor show. Food and music will also be available at this unique holiday experience.

DEC 13 The Oak Ridge Boys Christmas Show, 4pm, Star Plaza Theatre, I-65 & US 30, Merrillville. 219.769.6600. www. starplazatheatre.com. The Oak Ridge Boys return for their annual Christmas show. The group that has had such hits as “Elvira” and “Bobbie Sue” in their award-winning career will be performing songs off of its five Christmas CDs and mix traditional hits with some contemporary songs.

DEC 31 Damon Williams’s New Year’s Eve Comedy Bash, 8pm, Star Plaza Theatre, I-65 & US 30, Merrillville. 219.769.6600. www. starplazatheatre.com. For the 11th-straight year, Damon Williams comes to the Star Plaza Theatre to present his Comedy Bash and ring in the New Year. Williams has opened for acts such as Aretha Franklin, R. Kelly and the Temptations. He is considered to be one of the elite and upcoming comedians on the comedy circuit and has done shows all around the world.

Holiday Favorites [ December 9, 2009 ]

21

Make the Most of

Holiday

Classics Holiday Ham Wrap Tree Perfect for a luncheon or party, these ham wraps stack up to an impressive holiday appetizer that’s easy to prepare.

1 pound slices from Cook’s Ham Spiral sliced 6 ounces cream cheese, whipped 1 cup sliced sharp cheddar cheese ½ cup red bell pepper, sliced into thin strips 6 6-inch spinach flour tortillas 1. Slice ham into 1/2-inch wide strips.

2. Spread thin layer of cream cheese over surface of tortilla.

3. Place two strips of ham side by side along lower third of tortilla, so they extend from one end.

4. Line both sides of ham with two strips of red pepper, and one slice of cheese each.

5. Fold tortilla edge over contents and roll tightly.

6. Cut into 1-inch pinwheels.

7. Stack pinwheels in rings one on top of another, decreasing size of each ring until reaching top of tree.

8. Garnish with cranberries, or star-shaped cutouts of pepper.

Source: Cook’s Ham

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Holiday Favorites [ December 9, 2009 ]

A Special Publication of The Times Media Company

Holiday Buffet Dinner

& Theatre

Stroll past the display of beautiful holiday trees and enjoy the scrumptious cuisine of The Center for Visual and Performing Arts. Complete the evening with tickets to Theatre at the Center’s heartwarming production of The Christmas Schooner.

Holiday Buffet - 5-9 pm . Buffet Dinner*

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“Very Funny Magic” show by Dennis DeBondt, featuring his lightning quick wit, humor and magical talents Preferred Featuring Piano Music by Walter Lisak The William J. Bachman Gallery will be open for viewing “The Elvis Tribute Show: A Diamond Jubiliee”

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A Special Publication of The Times Media Company

Holiday Favorites [ December 9, 2009 ]

23

C

hesterton offers a great variety of eclectic shops and boutiques to meet all your shopping needs. Saturday Dec. 5th is the town wide open house. Visit downtown businesses for special savings! There’s no greater holiday shopping experience than at Indian Summer, Spike & Buddy’s, Regal Rabbit and Flower Cart.

V

isit our two-story Christmas Shoppe featuring thousands of unique ornaments, collector santas, giftware, greeting cards, fudge and fine chocolates, Pipka santas, Mark Roberts fairies, Ne’Qwa ornaments, Margaret Cobane ornaments all perfect for holiday giving.

145 S. Calumet Rd. Chesterton 219-926-8615 Hours: M-T 8:30 am - 6:00 pm Wed.-Sat. 8:30 am - 8:00 pm Sunday 11:00 am - 3:00 pm

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Holiday Favorites [ December 9, 2009 ]

Thank you for 10 great years!

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A Special Publication of The Times Media Company

A

Casefor

Baskets

Sometimes the perfect gift can’t be contained by one piece of wrapping paper.

Here’s how to turn several small tokens into a show-stopping gift basket.

By Anna Sachse : CTW Features

T

his holiday season, shower your loved ones with a plethora of presents-in-one by making them a personalized gift basket.

No matter what your budget may be, it’s easy to build a DIY chest of treasures that’s practical, luxurious … or both.

Even better, taking the time to handselect items that specifically speak to the recipient’s personality and passions automatically makes the gift more memorable.

“DIY gift baskets show an extra layer of thought and that, as we all know, is what counts,” says Anne-Marie O’Neill, deputy editor for Real Simple magazine.

And not only will all the people on your gift-giving list feel extraspecial, you won’t waste money on items that will just be thrown away. Even though the likes of Harry & David may be lovely, it’s rare to find a pre-assembled gift basket in which every item is ideal.

Picking the Perfect Presentee DIY gift baskets are fine for everyone, including coworkers and casual acquaintances, says Shirley George

Brumm’s Bloomin’ Barn in Highland can help you wrap the perfect basket A Special Publication of The Times Media Company

Frazier, a gift basket industry über-expert and author of “The Gift Basket Design Book” (Globe Pequot, 2004). But they are especially great for friends and family of all ages because the carefully chosen products express close ties between the giver and receiver.

That said, according to O’Neill, it is OK to do carbon copy baskets for different people. Not only will you save time by making multiples, you can also save cash by buying items in bulk.

Themes that most people love include: soothing toiletries like home-facial supplies for women or luxury shaving lotions, potions and razors for men; coffee, tea or cocktail kits; and homey edibles, such as all the dry ingredients and tools for making chocolate chip cookies, or a barbequethemed basket with gourmet sauces, rubs, a bag of charcoal and some recipes.

Just be sure the contents are truly appropriate for each recipient.

Tapping a Motif When selecting a theme for a gift basket, remember to customize it

for the person who’s receiving it rather than yourself, Frazier says. This means considering what the recipient might need in terms of their lifestyle as well as their hobbies and tastes. Of course, the Italian food-lover or cook would be thrilled to get an assortment of dry pastas, olive oil, balsamic, herbs and a cookbook packaged in a large stainless steel colander or pasta bowl. And the avid sports fan will likely cheer for a cooler or tote that contains game tickets, paraphernalia like caps and umbrellas bearing their favorite team’s logo, a collapsible stadium chair and an assortment of snacks.

New students might also appreciate a basket that simply makes their life a little easier. Here are a few practical possibilities: A plastic laundry basket or wicker hamper filled with detergent, dryer sheets, stain remover, a mesh bag for delicates, and, if needed, a couple rolls of quarters; a large plastic mop bucket filled with cleaning products, sponges, dust cloths and room freshening sprays; and a winter health basket that includes vitamins, cough drops, a heating pad, a thermometer, tissues, warm socks, cans of chicken soup and chamomile tea. continued on page 26

Holiday Favorites [ December 9, 2009 ]

25

Book your

Holiday Parties

NOW!

Semi-Private up to 20 guests.

Get your Gift Certificates NOW! Ciao Bella also offers holiday catering.

Let us personalize your menu!

Join us for New Years Eve! Midnight Toast • Party Favors Ask for our Special New Year’s Eve Menu Sunday Brunch 10am-2pm. $14.95.

Over 30 items available (juice & soft drinks included).

• Award winning (Gourmet Magazine) Authentic Italian Restaurant • Extensive Wine List

Fair Oaks Farms offers gift baskets filled with their homemade cheeses. continued from page 25

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This year have all your Christmas presents show the true meaning of the season. The Shrine of Christ’s Passion is where you will find gifts that will truly touch the hearts of those you love. Our one-of-a-kind Gift Shop offers a wide variety of: - Inspirational Gifts - Nativity Sets - Christmas Gifts - Bibles & Prayer Books

- Adult & Children Books - Rosaries - Religious/Inspirational Jewelry

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10630 Wicker Ave. | St. John, IN 46373 | 219-365-6010 www.shrineofchristspassion.org 26

Holiday Favorites [ December 9, 2009 ]

If you’re still having trouble deciding on a theme, use some of the following ideas from Sara Toliver, author of “Bountiful Baskets: Creating Perfect Gifts for Any Occasion” (Sterling, 2005), as a starting point: For Families: the “Movie” basket. Fill a popcorn bowl with bags of popped or microwave popcorn, popular movie candy like Junior Mints and Red Vines, classic sodas and a gift certificate to a local movie theater or video rental store. For women: the “Spa” basket. Stock a container with bath salts, bath pillow, loofah, eye mask, a lavender-scented candle and, if you want to make it extra indulgent, a soft robe and slippers. Another female-friendly idea is the manicure/pedicure basket with files, polishes and individual hand and foot creams.

For Men: the “Hobby” basket. For the wine lover, use a champagne bucket to hold a bottle of unusual wine, a bottle opener, a couple of wine glasses and a subscription to “Wine Spectator.” Or, for the golf fan, fill a container with golf balls, a good golf shirt and coupons for lessons or a tee-time at his favorite course. As for children, try to find out their interests and tailor the gift to their age, Toliver says. A selection of board games, jigsaw puzzles and word game books might work well for most, as well as an assortment of art supplies, a variety of packaged science projects and a bucket of beach or pool toys.

Magnify the wow factor by taking some time to think outside the basket.

“I very rarely use traditional woven baskets because they usually end up in a back closet or just get tossed,” Toliver says. Instead, she recommends selecting a container that is both uniquely appropriate to the theme of the gift and also something the recipient can use long after the contents are unwrapped.

For example, Radio Flyer wagons filled with durable toys for toddlers or pastel-colored bath tubs stuffed with terrycloth washmitts and organic baby shampoo are perfect for new and expectant moms, Frazier says. Or if you’re going the food route, why not package it up in a picnic basket, complete with bug spray, blanket and reusable dishes and utensils?

Other useful vessels include dish drainers, woks, serving trays, tea pots, flower pots, hats, baseball mitts, backpacks, small rolling suitcases and upturned umbrellas.

For added flair, use useful materials such as dish or beach towels, laundry bags, aprons, sweatshirts, jump ropes or bungee cords to wrap everything up.

But use caution, warns Toliver, as some of these methods aren’t very secure. If your gift basket will be transported a long way, you should consider first using shrink wrap, which can be purchased at craft stores and only requires a hair dryer. You can then use colorful cellophane, netting or other creative coverings on top.

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Holiday Favorites [ December 9, 2009 ]

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A Special Publication of The Times Media Company

holiday

list

F I N D T H E S E G R E AT G I F T I D E A S C L O S E T O H O M E Eagle Air Craft

4001 Murvihill Rd., Valparaiso, IN 219.464.0132, www.jseagle.com _______________________________

Edible Arrangements

Lansing, 3422 Ridge Road, 708.418.0000 Portage, 6632 US Hwy 6, 219.763.3600 Schererville, 248 W. Lincoln Hwy, 219.864.1400 Valparaiso, 501 Silhavy Road, 219.531.4300 www.ediblearrangements.com __________________________________________

Ever wanted to Learn to Fly? The Discovery flight from Eagle Aircraft gives the person thinking of flight lessons a chance to see what it’s like, $99. Or for a romantic adventure, see the area in the air and end your day with a dinner at Stongbow’s - $199. Scenic flights for up to three people - $159.

The Starry Sleighride® is a delicious fruit bouquet overflowing with delicious fresh fruit in a keepsake sleigh container accompanied by a holiday balloon. The Starry Sleighride® is the perfect gift for the holidays. $75.00

Baums Natural Foods

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Service Doctor Remodeling & Design

5150 E. US Hwy. 30 Merrillville, IN, 219.942.0883 www.servicedoctor.net ____________________________ Give the gift of a beautiful kitchen with cabinet resurfacing. Gift certificates are available. Or, call now and have them installed before Christmas. See $200 savings coupon in this publication.

Cartronix

Valparaiso, Merrillville, Schererville, Portage www.cartronix.com _____________________________

LG CF360 with GPS, Music Player and 1.3 Mega Pixel Camera, FREE after $30 mail-in rebate, $15 data plan and two-year service agreement. See store for details.

A Special Publication of The Times Media Company

Bunch Jewelers

3355 Willowcreek Rd., Portage, IN, 219.763.7334 ________________________ Quarter carat Diamond Stud Earrings.

At this price they’ll all be wearing diamond studs, $69.

Holiday Favorites [ December 9, 2009 ]

29

holiday

list

Almira’s Pastry and Wedding Cake Shop Inside VanTil’s, 2635 169th St. Hammond, IN, 219.844.4334 ______________________

Pick up a tray of Almira’s Famous Christmas Cookies on your way to a holiday party, or grab the perfect gift for a sweet someone.

Available in 1-5 lb. packages at VanTil’s or at Strack and VanTil East Chicago and Whiting locations, starting at $7.99.

The Cinnamon Tree Spa U Cook

5150 E. US Hwy. 30, Merrillville, IN, 219.942.0883 ____________________________________

The perfect gift for the chef or want-to-be-chef in your life—cooking class gift certificates from U-Cook.

Or, bring a group of friends for a fun night.

505 Silhavy Rd., Ste. 800, Valparaiso, IN, 219.548.8383 _______________________________________

Give the Gift of Joy to that special someone in your life this holiday. The Bring Joy Package at the Cinnamon Tree Spa includes a one hour massage, custom blended facial, warm stone pedicure, and then a special lunch including a peppermint mocha. $150

Midwest Air Link

4001 Murvill Rd., Valparaiso, IN 219.465.2104 www.midwestairlink.net ___________________________________________ Charter a flight for a weekend getaway.

Midwest Air Link is located at the Porter County Airport and flies to dozens of popular destinations.

Receive $200 off your first air charter.

China Doll

7346 Calumet Ave., Hammond, IN 219.853.0956 www.chinadolltattoo.com ___________________________

Add that extra sparkle this holiday with piercings from China Doll. Any piercing above the waist is only $25 (per piercing).

30

Holiday Favorites [ December 9, 2009 ]

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See our website for wine tasting schedule www.stjohnwineandspirits.com Holiday Favorites [ December 9, 2009 ]

31

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32

Holiday Favorites [ December 9, 2009 ]

BROWN TIRE of VALPARAISO A FULL SERVICE AUTO CENTER SERVING PORTER COUNTY SINCE 1958

MON-FRI 7:30-5:30 SAT 7:30-2:00

2404 N. Calumet Ave. • Valparaiso • 219-462-3109 • www.browntire.com A Special Publication of The Times Media Company

when holiday is my

?

favorite on

Part of the holiday magic we look forward to every year is viewing the perennial holiday television specials. Many, we can recite the lines by heart but still look forward to the special moments they bring. Here’s a handy list so you’re sure to catch your favorites.

www.chiff.com/home_life/holiday/christmas/whats-on-tv.htm

A Special Publication of The Times Media Company

A Muppets Christmas: Letters To Santa Yes, Virginia Holiday in Your Heart Cranberry Christmas Rudolph & Frosty’s Christmas In July Together Again for the First Time Rudolph’s Shiny New Year The Year Without A Santa Claus Home By Christmas A Miser Brothers’ Christmas Santa Claus Is Comin’ To Town Comfort and Joy Santa Clause 2 Holiday Affair It’s a Wonderful Life Rudolph The Red Nosed Reindeer Santa Clause 3: The Escape Clause The Flight Before Christmas Holiday Switch Santa Clause 3: The Escape Clause Holiday Switch Snow A Very Married Christmas Snow 2 Brain Freeze A Christmas Wedding A Carol Christmas Christmas in Paradise Holiday In Handcuffs Will You Merry Me? Santa Baby An Accidental Christmas Santa Baby 2: Christmas Maybe A Very Merry Daughter of the Bride Santa Baby 2: Christmas Maybe A Very Merry Daughter of the Bride Eloise At Christmastime Jennifer Hudson: I’ll Be Home For Christmas Gotta Catch Santa Claus Rudolph The Red-Nosed Reindeer And The Island Of Misfit Toys Home Alone 2: Lost In New York Pinocchio’s Christmas Mickey’s Christmas Carol Winnie The Pooh & Christmas Too Frosty’s Winter Wonderland The Story Of The First Christmas Snow Nestor, The Long-Eared Christmas Donkey Jack Frost Jack Frost Saturday Night Live Christmas 2009 Christmas in Connecticut Jingle All The Way Frosty The Snowman Frosty Returns A Muppets Christmas: Letters To Santa

NBC CBS Lifetime ABCFAM ABCFAM Lifetime ABCFAM ABCFAM Lifetime ABCFAM ABCFAM Lifetime ABCFAM Lifetime NBC CBS ABCFAM CBS Lifetime ABCFAM Lifetime ABCFAM Lifetime ABCFAM Lifetime ABCFAM Lifetime ABCFAM Lifetime ABCFAM Lifetime ABCFAM Lifetime ABCFAM Lifetime ABCFAM ABC ABCFAM

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Dec 11, 7:00pm Dec 11, 7:00pm Dec 12, 10:00am Dec 12, 10:30am Dec 12, 11:00am Dec 12, 12:00pm Dec 12, 1:00pm Dec 12, 2:00pm Dec 12, 2:00pm Dec 12, 3:00pm Dec 12, 5:00pm Dec 12, 4:00pm Dec 12, 5:00pm Dec 12, 6:00pm Dec 12, 7:00pm Dec 12, 7:00pm Dec 12, 7:00pm Dec 12, 8:00pm Dec 12, 8:00pm Dec 12, 9:00pm Dec 12, 10:00pm Dec 13, 9:00am Dec 13, 10:00am Dec 13, 11:00am Dec 13, 12:00pm Dec 13, 1:00pm Dec 13, 2:00pm Dec 13, 3:00pm Dec 13, 4:00pm Dec 13, 5:00pm Dec 13, 6:00pm Dec 13, 7:00pm Dec 13, 8:00pm Dec 13, 9:00pm Dec 13, 10:00pm Dec 14, 4:00pm Dec 14, 7:00pm Dec 15, 5:00pm

Dec 15, 6:00pm Dec 15, 7:30pm Dec 16, 5:00pm Dec 16, 6:00pm Dec 16, 6:30pm Dec 16, 9:30pm Dec 17, 5:00pm Dec 17, 5:30pm Dec 17, 6:00pm Dec 17, 7:00pm Dec 17, 7:00pm Dec 17, 7:00pm Dec 17, 9:00pm Dec 18, 7:00pm Dec 18, 7:30pm Dec 19, 7:00pm

continued on page 34 Holiday Favorites [ December 9, 2009 ]

33

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LANSING • 3422 Ridge Rd. 708-418-0000 PORTAGE • 6632 US Hwy. 6 219-763-3600 SCHERERVILLE • 248 W. Lincoln Hwy. 219-864-1400 VALPARAISO • 501 Silhavy Rd. 219-531-4300

34

Holiday Favorites [ December 9, 2009 ]

continued from page 33 Sons Of Mistletoe The Christmas List Unlikely Angel A Carol Christmas Santa Baby Santa Baby 2: Christmas Maybe I Saw Mommy Kissing Santa Claus A Very Brady Christmas Once Upon A Christmas Twice Upon A Christmas Snowglobe Holiday In Handcuffs Santa Baby Santa Baby 2: Christmas Maybe Miracle On 34th Street The Polar Express The 11th Annual A Home For The Holidays Mickey’s Christmas Carol Winnie The Pooh & Christmas Too Pinocchio’s Christmas Twas The Night Before Christmas Rudolph & Frosty’s Christmas In July Rudolph The Red-Nosed Reindeer And The Island Of Misfit Toys Jack Frost Frosty’s Winter Wonderland Twas The Night Before Christmas Rudolph’s Shiny New Year Santa Claus Is Comin’ To Town It’s a Wonderful Life A Christmas Story Marathon The Year Without A Santa Claus A Miser Brothers’ Christmas Jingle All The Way Willy Wonka & The Chocolate Factory Miracle on 34th Street

ABCFAM ABCFAM ABCFAM ABCFAM ABCFAM ABCFAM ABCFAM ABCFAM ABCFAM ABCFAM ABCFAM ABCFAM ABCFAM ABCFAM ABCFAM ABCFAM CBS ABCFAM ABCFAM ABCFAM ABCFAM ABCFAM

Dec 21, 10:00am Dec 21, 12:00pm Dec 21, 2:00pm Dec 21, 4:00pm Dec 21, 6:00pm Dec 21, 8:00pm Dec 22, 10:00am Dec 22, 12:00pm Dec 22, 2:00pm Dec 22, 4:00pm Dec 23, 10:00am Dec 23, 12:00pm Dec 23, 2:00pm Dec 23, 4:00pm Dec 23, 6:30pm Dec 23, 9:00pm Dec 23, 7:30pm Dec 24, 10:00am Dec 24, 10:30am Dec 24, 11:00am Dec 24, 12:00pm Dec 24, 12:30pm

ABCFAM ABCFAM ABCFAM ABCFAM ABCFAM ABCFAM NBC TBS ABCFAM ABCFAM ABCFAM ABCFAM ABCFAM

Dec 24, 2:30pm Dec 24, 4:00pm Dec 24, 5:00pm Dec 24, 5:30pm Dec 24, 6:00pm Dec 24, 7:00pm Dec 24, 7:00pm Dec 24, 7:00pm Dec 24, 8:00pm Dec 24, 9:00pm Dec 25, 10:00am Dec 25, 12:00pm Dec 25, 2:30pm

A Special Publication of The Times Media Company

Fala

La-la Lah

F

earful of a foot-inmouth moment at the punch bowl? Karen Bussen, a New York City-based entertaining expert and best-selling author, shares five smart ideas to help you schmooze and make all the right moves at this year’s holiday parties.

Conversation starter “Focus on something that’s great about the party,” Bussen says.

Start in a general area, like food or décor.

Conversation ender There’s nothing wrong with offering a simple handshake and smile, wishing the other guest a “wonderful time tonight” and moving along. If you feel the need for something more elaborate, “Ask a question like, ‘Hey do you know where the ladies’ [or mens’] room is?’”

Bussen suggests.

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Toast

Talking Tips for your Holiday Party

“Keep it non-religious, nonpolitical and all inclusive,” Bussen warns. She recommends reciting a quote. If you don’t have the best memory stick to these safe topics: health, happiness, prosperity and good cheer.

Remember, “It’s a toast, not a roast,” says Bussen. Keep it short.

Change the subject When a conversation drifts into an undesirable subject area, “change the topic in a fun and upbeat way,” Bussen says. Bring up a holiday memory or ask a question.

Escape line “Avoid making people think you have somewhere better to go,” Bussen warns. She recommends dropping a line like “I wish I could stay longer, but my babysitter has to leave early.”

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A Special Publication of The Times Media Company

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Holiday Favorites [ December 9, 2009 ]

35

MUNSTER • 45 St./Fran-Lin Pkwy.

219-922-1050 ST. JOHN • 9486 Wicker Ave. 219-558-8780 MERRILLVILLE • Rt. 30/Merrillville Rd. 219-769-3140 www.baumsnaturalfoods.com

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Merrillville, IN • 219-738-2554 36

Holiday Favorites [ December 9, 2009 ]

WISHING YOU A WONDERFUL HOLIDAY SEASON A Special Publication of The Times Media Company

10

Tips to

Keep

your

Holidays

Merry

By Brenda Gutierrez

McClatchy Newspapers

T

he holidays typically send most families into highstress mode. But before you start panicking, “The No. 1 thing is put the pressure on paper,” says Deniece Schofield, a home management expert and author of several books on organization, including “Confessions of a Happily Organized Family.” “Make sure everything is written down, because if it’s in your head, it’s stressful,” she said.

Here are ten of her helpful holiday tips: KEEP A SCHEDULE List the many things you have to work around: check office and school calendars (will your kids need holiday costumes for school performances?); note when you have to get things in the mail so they’re received on time, when you’re going to decorate the tree, events going on in the community, and service projects for the family, such as adopting a family or volunteering at the food bank.

1.

2.

GET YOUR DUCKS IN A ROW Also list who you want to give gifts to; who your kids want to give gifts to and what they want to give; things you want to make vs. things you want to buy; and your Christmas card recipients. (Most experts also agree that this is time to

evaluate your budget. Be realistic. You’ll want to be able to stick to it!)

3.

USE YOUR WAITING TIME Standing in line? Waiting for a doctor’s appointment or dinner to cook? Take advantage of little chunks of time to plan things, make your lists, or work on little craft projects. You can do this throughout the year but especially during the holiday season.

4.

GIFT LISTS Create a list of what you have given people as gifts. That way you don’t risk giving something you’ve already given.

While you’re at it, start next year’s gift list. Keep your radar up during the year and make notes, so when it comes time to shop, you have a list of things people want and will enjoy.

Don’t Stress...

Let Others Help You to Keep it Merry!

T

he holidays are a busy, stressful time. So how does one keep their holiday cheer with all of the hustle bustle? Let others help you! Valerie Martinez, controller at Service Doctor in Merrillville, says the holidays are a great time to leave the heavy duty work to a professional. “We do pretty much any kind of need you have inside or outside your home. We do remodeling, plumbing, electrical work, pest control, and carpet cleaning. Especially with our carpet cleaning services and other services that help to update the home, such as painting, we see people calling in to spruce up before the holidays,” says Martinez.

Toni Smith, owner of Seattle Sutton’s Healthy Eating in Highland and Lansing, says that when you’re busy with shopping and kids activities and all of the holiday craziness, cooking is just one more hassle and they can help with quick and healthy meals. “We have a meal plan that is a week of food, or a partial week for four days, three meals a day. You know you’re eating healthy and you have more energy when you’re eating healthy and it’s a good program in that respect too, plus you don’t have to cook for yourself. You can go do all of your shopping and come home and it’s there for you,” says Smith.

5.

DECORATIONS Take inventory of your holiday decorations, make a list and identify what box they’re stored in. When you’re boxing them up at the end of the season,

A Special Publication of The Times Media Company

continued on page 38 Holiday Favorites [ December 9, 2009 ]

37

continued from page 37 sort and store them by room, not by what they are. Then next year, you can decorate from one box at a time, one room at a time, if you don’t have a large block of time to do it all at once.

6.

GET WRAPPING Set up a card table in a corner of a room and make that your gift-wrap center, so when you buy something, you can wrap it right away and avoid the lastminute crunch. Stand up rolls of wrapping paper in a waste basket, or hang in a garment bag. If you buy 30-inch-long rolls of paper, cut them in two — one 18 inches and one 12 inches — then put them in empty aluminum foil boxes for easy dispensing. A desk or wrist tape dispenser releases strips of tape with one hand.

And those spindle paper towel holders are great for storing and dispensing rolls of ribbon.

8.

TACKLE THE BIG MEALS Holidays are often all about the food. If you’re playing host, do a lot of stuff in advance, and realize that a lot of things can be reheated just before guests arrive. If you’re hosting a casual affair, have your guests contribute a dish or drinks. Afterward, make notes of who you invited, so you’ll remember details such as whether someone is allergic to nuts.

9.

EVALUATE WHAT WORKED, WHAT DIDN’T Immediately after the holidays, ask yourself: — What would you have liked to do this season, but you ran out of time? — Which of those things could you plan to do now or do earlier in the year so you don’t run out of time? — Is your gift list going to change next year? — Were there certain baked goods or foods that people really enjoyed? — What decorations or ornaments would you like to add, exchange or get rid of?

10.

7.

HOLIDAY HOUSE CLEANING Houseguests — either for dinner or for weeks at a time — are often a key part of the holidays. But this isn’t the time to clean out the basement or reorganize storage closets.

Ultimately, your goal should be that you’re not embarrassed by your home and that everyone will be welcome and have a good time. Back off the big projects and just do those things that pertain to that direct goal.

38

THEN WORK AHEAD FOR 2010 With kids, it can be difficult to buy gifts too far in advance — they tend to want something they just saw on TV. But with other people, you can pick things up during the course of the year to save time and money. And don’t forget to take advantage of the after-holiday sales. You can get staples like holiday napkins, cards and gift wrap for a fraction of the seasonal price. Just be sure to write down what you bought and where you have stashed it, so you’re ready to go next year.

Holiday Favorites [ December 9, 2009 ]

Local Businesses Help Take the Hectic out of the Holidays

A

t The UPS Store in Highland, Manager Nicole Frank says they have a lot of options to help make the holidays easier. “Especially on the weekends, we have a lot of people who are just finished shopping and have their bags and we package the items and ship them out for them, so it makes it a lot easier for them.

We take care of everything.

We have a lot of people using our services this time of year.

We have a lot of shipping options, ground, inter, 2nd day, next day, so we can get it there whenever you need,” says Frank.

And when it comes time to clean up all of those dry needles from your Christmas tree, The Valparaiso Vacuum Company has a variety of vacuums and supplies to meet all needs.

Valparaiso resident and owner Don Rush specializes in selling and repairing all major models of vacuums.

A Special Publication of The Times Media Company

For & The

The

In Town

OPEN CHRISTMAS EVE – NOW TAKING RESERVATIONS Tuesdays Thursdays Martinis Bottles of Wine Select bottles.

50 $

5

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4

over 15 martinis to choose from

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Wine value $20.

Gift Cards available

5off Lunch over 20

$

$

One coupon per table. Not valid with any other offer or promotion. Excludes Holidays. Excludes tax and tip. Valid for lunch from 11 to 3:30, Monday thru Saturday. Expires 12/23/09.

FREE

SLEEVE OF GOLF BALLS

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GET UP TO 3% BACK towards future purchases when you join our Rewards Program.

See store for details.

ENTER TO WIN A FREE Trip For 2 To

THE MASTERS

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for latest specials & events and receive a

FREE

The Brands. The Selection. The Know-How.

APPETIZER The Klideris Family is proud to offer: Theo’s Steak & Seafood

Ted’s Restaurant

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Highland . IN

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580 Burnham Ave. Calumet City . IL

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A Special Publication of The Times Media Company

Holiday Favorites [ December 9, 2009 ]

39

Give the Gift of

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And when you give the gift of Culver’s, you’ll get some in return.

Buy a $20 Gift Card & receive a free Double ButterBurger Cheese Value Basket.

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HA

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Culver’s of Schererville

AND MANY PACKAGES AVAILABLE!

980 W. Lincoln Hwy. 219-322-2266

© 2009 Culver Franchising System, Inc. Limited time offer. At participating Culver’s restaurants.

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40

Holiday Favorites [ December 9, 2009 ]

Winterization We drain and & Flush refill the entir e cooling syste check for leaks m, , and visually inspect all belts hoses. We als o include a fu and ll winter safet on the brake y inspection systems systems. Includ , tire treads and suspensio n es one gallon of antifreeze.

Invalid without coupon at time with any other offers of service. Expires 2/28/2010. Invalid or and supply charges are discounts. Good on most cars. Taxes additional.

LUBE SPECIAL

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2839 Highway Ave. (219) 838-2530 Downtown Highland www.highlandjeweler.com HOLIDAY HOURS Monday-Friday 9:30-8 | Saturday 9:30-5 | Sunday 12-4

Cooling System

Save $20.00 Reg. $79.95

219.769.7022 “Se Habla Espanol”

Come visit us during our new Saturday hours 8am m - 3p 3pm. pm.

Oil, Lube & Filte

r

Service for $24.9 Includes a 20 5 -point inspectio n, plus up to five quar ts of oil & filte r.

Reg. $31.95 Invalid without coupon at time of service. Exp ires 2/28/2010. Inva with any other offers lid or and supply charges are discounts. Good on most cars. Taxes additional.

w w w. R o n s A u t o m o t i v e I n d i a n a . c o m A Special Publication of The Times Media Company

Popularity

growing among

gift cards and

certificates

G

ift cards and gift certificates have grown in popularity over the years, as more and more holiday shoppers are content to give loved ones credit toward merchandise at their favorite stores. According to a report from market research firm Packaged Facts, gift card spending is expected to exceed $52 billion by 2012, up from $40 billion in 2007.

In a report titled “The U.S. Market for Prepaid Cards with a Focus on Gift Cards,” Packaged Facts found that 67 percent of people expected to buy at least one gift card or certificate by 2012. The amount purchasers are expected to spend is also estimated to be on the rise. While the average amount gift card buyers spent on cards was $288 in 2007, by 2012 that figure is expected to reach $326. Gift cards and certificates can seem like the perfect, no-risk gift, but before purchasing for a loved one this holiday season inquire as to whether it has an expiration date, any hidden fees or other charges. Should there be an expiration date, be sure to let your loved one know that if it’s not redeemed, it won’t be replaced nor will you be given your money back.

Gift cards and gift certificates are a great gift for practically anyone.

Check out the wide variety of merchants offering them throughout this holiday section.

A Special Publication of The Times Media Company

Holiday Favorites [ December 9, 2009 ]

41

This Year’s

If you’re going to shell out hundreds of dollars on a smartphone or camera for that special someone, you better make sure it’s top-notch. Cnet’s top picks from the 2009 Consumer electronics Show is a good place to start –Taniesha Robinson

Best Gadget Bets Best in Home Audio

Samsung’s HTBD7200: 2.1 Blu-ray home theater This uniquely designed home entertainment system is an Netflix member’s dream. Netflix unlimited members can instantly watch more than 17,000 movies and TV episodes. The high-def Bluray Disc Player upconverts regular DVDs and lets you enjoy stored music and media via an iPod dock with video, audio and iPhone support. Wirelessly view pictures and listen to music from your PC through the Wi-Fi ready and PC Connected/Streaming features.

Best in Car Technology

Sony

Gracenote & Voxonic’s CarStars The next time you turn on your car radio, you could hear your favorite celebrity introduce the next song in any language with this personalized automobile entertainment system. Gracenote MusicID, MediaVOCS and Playlist allow users to enjoy music of their choice at the command of their voice. CarStars also integrates into the car’s navigation system and utilizes locations to make recommendations.

Fire Up the Local Tech

N

Best in Computer & Hardware Sony P-series Lifestyle PC

The world’s lightest 8-inch notebook also fits right into your purse or jacket pocket. This PC is perfect for those on the go. The one-button quick-boot option grants you fast access to the Web for directions, e-mail and more. An Internet connection isn’t even needed to access turn-by-turn directions to a nearby restaurant with the real-time GPS functionality of its Microsoft Streets & Trips software.

Best in Gaming

orthwest Indiana is on the cutting edge of technology and our local merchants carry all of the latest gadgets. Doug Burge, manager of Cartronix in Portage says, “The hottest item this year is our Blackberry 9700 which is also called the Bold 2. It’s a full-feature PDA device with a very nice screen and a 3.2 megapixel camera on it, fully capable video, mp3 player with a nice set of headphones ,and ability to do streaming content. There’s an optical mouse right on the phone.

We also have the Samsung Impression which is a text-based phone with a 3.2 megapixel camera and one of the largest keyboards so it’s adaptable for any hand.”

At Terpstra’s in Griffith, big ticket items are the order of the day. Owner Don Terpstra says that how their inventory sells frequently depends upon good ol’ Mother Nature. “Snow blowers are usually big around the holidays, but it depends on the weather forecast.

If there’s snow or even flurries forecast, people will come in to buy snow blowers,” says Terpstra.

Samsung

Nyko Wand

Nyko’s Wii remote control edges out the original from Nintendo with what it calls Trans-Port technology, which allows designed attachments to pass through key buttons to the Nunchuk port at the base of the remote. This makes attachments more responsive and, in theory, eliminates the need for continued on page 45

42

Holiday Favorites [ December 9, 2009 ]

A Special Publication of The Times Media Company

Send us a picture of You or Your Family members

DRESSED AS RALPHIE & You Will Be entered to Win A Christmas Story Leg Lamp Delivered In The Original

FRAGILE Crate To Your Home.

Photos must be submitted on or before Sunday 12/20/09.

E-MAIL PHOTOS TO: mmcarcare@comcast.net or E-MAIL PHOTOS TO: 5048 W. 81st Ave. (Rt.30) Schererville, IN 46375.

Winner will be notified by Wed. 12/23/09.

N

M & M Car Care Center

We Are Offering a $20

Zuni’s

Not valid for oil changes. Not valid with any other offer. Expires 1/15/10.

WINTER SPECIAL! Oil & Filter & Lube Service (up to 5 qts of oil and stocking filter) Complete 35 Point Vehicle Inspection ONLY Check Antifreeze & All Fluids Rotate Tires (if applicable) Complete Brake System Check Reg. $42.95 Free Battery Testing and Inspection

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atware)

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Includes 5 Quarts of Automatic Transmission Fluid, Filter & Gasket

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Must Present Coupon. Not valid with any other offer. Expires 1/15/10.

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In Store Special 10% OFF

Flush & Fill includes 1 Gallon of Extended Life Coolant

TRANSMISSION SERVICE!

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Merrillville Jewelers has been the premier buyer and seller of jewelry and precious metal in Northwest Indiana since1978.

Please call Paul at 769-1911 or email merrjwlry@sbcglobal.net with any questions.

10%

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WITH THIS COUPON! WIT

Expires 12/31/09. Valid on jewelry transactions only.

Not good towards bullion or coin transactions.

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7203 Taft Street | Merrillville (Strack and Van Til Plaza) 769-1911 | www.merrillvillejewelers.com A Special Publication of The Times Media Company

Holiday Favorites [ December 9, 2009 ]

43

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self the r u o y Give eshly r f a f o gift rpet a c d e clean holidays! for the

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Benefits of being a Season Ticket Holder:

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Choose your seat at the beginning of the year.

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104 Indiana Ave. Valparaio

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December 2010

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(AVERAGE SIZE) (AVERAGE SIZE) (AVERAGE SIZE) Oversize Furniture, Extra Cushions & Velours Additional Charges.

Holiday Favorites [ December 9, 2009 ]

Wolverine Contour Welt technology. Our latest innovation. For more than 125 years, Wolverine has made incredibly comfortable, rugged, and dependable work boots. Now, we’re making them work even harder. New Contour Welt boots provide the comfort and flexibility of an athletic shoe with the durability and support of a work boot. Insist on our exclusive Contour Welt technology.

A Tradition of Superior Quality and Service Since1946 The world’s most comfortable boots. Guaranteed.

7121 121 Indianapolis Blvd.

Blvd • Hammond, Hammond IN 219-844-5400 • www.bereybros.com See tough See toug toug ugh W Wollver ver e ine ine boo boo boot ots an a d ap pp pa pare are re el att www www.wol .wol o veri v ne.c ve ne.com. om.

A Special Publication of The Times Media Company

continued from page 42

Best in Cell Phones & Smartphones

Best in Televisions

Palm Pre

Panasonic TC-G10 plasma series The visual display is superb in this series with excellent shadow detail; highlyaccurate primary colors and grayscale and great color saturation, all while using less power than previous 1080p plasmas.

Viera Cast technology provides access to select Web services, including YouTube and Picasa right on your TV with no extra equipment.

Best in GPS

TomTom GO 740 Live Purchase this GPS system and you’ll get a complimentary one-year subscription to Live services to stay connected to real-time data like traffic and fuel prices. IQ Routes technology calculates your routes based on speeds normally traveled rather than the speed at which you’re not supposed to break. At least, the hands-free calling feature tries to keep you safe.

Palm

accessories to have moving plastic parts to press buttons on the remote.

A wireless charging dock, slide out keyboard, LED camera flash and Palm Synergy feature that links Microsoft Outlook, Google and Facebook calendars and conversations together in one logical view enabled the Palm Pre to be named best cell phone in 2009.

Best in MP3 & Video Players

Samsung P3 touch-screen MP3 player This pocket-sized video player emphasizes personalization for navigation through its EmoTure interface. Instead of just one main screen, there are three customizable desk screens. Enjoy easy, fast downloading with the popular DIVX format and spend more time watching movies.

Treat ...

“Made from Scratch”

baked goods

from Branya’s

P

eter Minjares, owner of Ron’s Automotive in Merrillville says when it comes to automotive gadgets, be careful about buying the right product, such as remote car starters this holiday season. “You have to make sure your remote starter is compatible with your car’s system and it should be manufactured by the dealership. We’ve had to uninstall remote starts that people have bought for others as gifts because they can create problems with the other systems in the car.”

Best in Digital Photo & Video Sony DSC-G3 Snap a photo and then upload it directly to a photo-sharing site with this sleek, new pocketsized camera’s integrated Wi-Fi and a built-in browser.

The features are top-notch, too: 10.1 megapixels, 4X zoom, 4GB of storage and a 3.5-inch touchscreen display.

Holiday Packages Dance nce Less Lessons sons Now

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Prices good thru January 31, 2010

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One Extra Dance Lesson absolutely FREE!

Expires 12/31/09

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Bakery.

We have the goodies that will make your Holiday Parties Fabulous!

10% OFF any order placed 24 hours in advance.

WITH THIS COUPON - Expires 1/1/10

Porter County / Illinois 1205 W. Lincoln Hwy. Merrillville, IN Lake County Residents

V i s i t u s a t - w w w. a r t h u r m u r r a y s . n e t

(219) 738-9041

COOKIE TRAYS AVAILABLE

Fresh Baked Breakfast Pastries Available Daily!

9159 Wicker Avenue (St. John Mall) | St. John, IN | 219-558-8712 | bakeryinstjohn.com Monday-Thursday 6am-1pm | Friday 6am-6pm | Saturday/Sunday 6am-2pm

A Special Publication of The Times Media Company

Holiday Favorites [ December 9, 2009 ]

45

MARIA’S Munster 836-5025

50% OFF

Crown Point 661-0420 Schererville 322-5503

Shop the Region Travel the World

$3000 Dream Vacation See page 16 for details

ALL

IN-STOCK VACUUMS Residential or Commercial Offer Expires 12/31/09

1051 Southpoint Dr. Suite E, Valparaiso, IN (Near Valpo License Branch) • Call 219-707-5162

Our meal plan is helpful for: • Convenience • Heart Healthy Eating • Weight Management • Blood Pressure Control • Diabetes Prevention & Control • Lowering Cancer Risks • Lowering Cholesterol Levels

Discount off regular prices.

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1 coupon per customer.

Expires: 1/11/10 *Prepayment Required.

Discount off regular prices.

Not good with other offer.

1 coupon per customer.

Expires: 1/11/10

©2009

46

Holiday Favorites [ December 9, 2009 ]

Not valid with any other discounts or offers.

Valid only at Gus Bock’s Dyer location, 1150 Sheffield Ave. Expires 12/23/09.

1-800-442-DIET www.seattlesutton.com

A Special Publication of The Times Media Company

Cheap Cheerful 50 Ideas for Making Merry on a Budget

and

By Perry Gattegno, Taniesha Robinson and Melissa Tussing

1.

Have a hot chocolate party and ask everyone to bring his or her favorite mug.

2.

Include a swizzle stick with your invitations as a promise of a great custom cocktail you plan to serve.

3.

4.

‘Rent’ a classic holiday film for free from your local library.

Wondering what to get your mair carrier, paperboy or neighbor. Gift cards can be the perfect solution.

5.

Save trees and money by sending out free, paperless electronic invitations from Evite.com.

8.

If your Thanksgiving table is smaller this year, make turkey burgers rather than the whole bird.

12.

6.

9.

10.

Spice up your cranberry sauce by making it into a chutney.

13.

Mix leftover cranberry sauce/ chutney with Dijon mustard and some mayo for a delicious spread on nextday turkey sandwiches.

14.

11.

15.

Guests will love your holiday brunch if you serve a pumpkin parfait. Layer store-bought pumpkin bread, vanilla or honey yogurt seasoned with a pinch of ground ginger, chopped hazelnuts and fresh blueberries or blackberries.

7.

Try a turducken – a semi-boneless turkey stuffed with a duck stuffed with a chicken. Online retailers will ship the bird – ahem, birds – to your door.

A Special Publication of The Times Media Company

Buy colorful ornaments at a discount store and place them inside glass bowls for a beautiful, affordable centerpiece.

Great wines for under $10: Côtes du Rhône (France) and Malbec (Argentina).

Stock up on serving and décor pieces by borrowing from friends, perusing eBay or loading up at local garage sales.

Try out Crystal Frost spray. It adds an icy effect or snowflake designs to windows for $5 a can.

Have a pine tree in the backyard?

Use cuttings from an evergreen to make wreaths and swags. continued on page 48

Holiday Favorites [ December 9, 2009 ]

47

continued from page 47 Stick holly cuttings into a foam ball. Add a length of ribbon and loop the flower arrangement over a door handle.

16.

17.

Enlist some help to make paper chains. Cut red and green construction paper into 2-inch strips and tape the rings together, alternating red and green loops.

18.

Stay away from disposable dishware. It’s costly and can eat up your budget.

25.

33.

Rim martini glasses in melted white or dark chocolate.

Refrigerate till you’re ready to use.

44.

34.

45.

Play musical chairs for presents.

Have your guests form a circle with someone holding a present. When you start a song, your guests will start passing the present around the circle.

When the music stops, that person steps out of the circle and that present is theirs.

Holiday Card Making Party: Provide stickers, glitter, pens, paper, markers or crayons and you’re good to go.

26.

35.

Need to get rid of extra wrapping paper? Wrap prizes in multiple layers of paper. Everyone sits in a circle.

The first person takes off a layer of wrapping paper, the second person takes off the next layer, etc. The person who takes off the last layer gets to keep the present.

Celebrate Hanukkah by preparing a Jewish-style brisket. The Barefoot Contessa, Ina Garten, has a good recipe.

o.

N 36

Don’t forget the pets.

Baum’s Natural Foods sells holistic foods and natural vitamins for your pets. Also, don’t miss the cute, heavy-duty leashes and collars for less than $17.

19.

27.

20.

Host an ornament-making party.

Stock up on ornaments from a craft store and pull out glue, fabric pens, glitter pens, bells, cotton balls and pompons.

28.

37.

21.

29.

38.

39.

Make a napkin ring out of card stock covered with a wide piece of ribbon. Cut the stock a little smaller than the ribbon is wide, glue it into a ring and then glue the ribbon on top. Add beads and buttons.

Ask your guests to bring their favorite holiday album, or keep your radio tuned to that station that plays nonstop holiday music during the season.

22.

DIY Piñata: Blow up a balloon, attach string when you tie it off and hang it up. Coat the balloon with papier-mâché paste, leaving a hole about 4 inches in diameter from where the balloon is tied off. Let it dry for a few days. Then, pop the balloon and remove it. Fill the piñata with candy and cover with papiermâché and let dry for a few more days.

Decorate with paint, crepe or tissue paper.

N o. 23

Looking for a great bottle of wine to bring to your holiday party? St. John Wine and Spirits will recommend the right wine for the occasion. Many wines available for less than $20.

24.

Take your green beans on a trip to Russia by sautéeing them with onion, green pepper and stewed tomato, and then mixing in sour cream.

48

Gift Wrapping Race: Four to six people around a table get pieces of wrapping paper, tape, ribbon and a box.

When someone says “Go!” the players must race to wrap the box with one hand.

Give each person a piece of paper.

When you say “Go!” the first person to write down all nine of Santa’s reindeer and yell out “Santa” is the winner.

Telephone Pictionary: Every player takes a piece of paper and writes a sentence or phrase at the top.

Then every player passes the sheet to his or her left. The next person draws a picture of the sentence below the sentence. Then that person folds over the paper so only their drawing is visible and passes it to their left. The next receiving person examines the picture and writes a sentence describing it below the picture.

Then that person folds over the paper so only their sentence is visible and passes it to their left. Continue until you get your own paper back.

30.

Fill a jar with M&M’s, counting how many are in the jar.

Guests guess, and the person who’s closest gets to keep the jar.

31.

32.

Pick an easy jigsaw puzzle that can be completed in a few hours.

If it’s not too cold out, play football or something else to get the blood moving.

Holiday Favorites [ December 9, 2009 ]

Christmas Alphabet: Person with the best list A-Z of Christmas items wins.

Complete the meal by making a batch of traditional raspberry or apricot sufganiot (jelly doughnuts).

List as many Christmas songs/ movies you can in 1 minute.

Volunteer. Get a group together to volunteer at a food bank or soup kitchen. You’ll have a great time and make a difference.

40.

Toys for Tots: Instead of white elephant presents, agree on a $20 limit for a gift to give to a child in need.

41.

Go caroling. Grab your old songbook, rehearse a little bit and hit the streets. Go door to door in your neighborhood.

42.

Choose active games that get everyone involved. Try Apples to Apples, Catch Phrase, Pictionary and Scattergories.

43.

Mystery Stocking Game. Give everyone a stocking filled with candy, plastic holly/mistletoe, nonbreakable ornaments, etc., and tie a ribbon around the stocking so that you can’t see inside. Then, have teams of people feel the stocking and write down everything they think is inside. The team who guesses the most correctly wins.

Rudolph Race. Convince your guests to put Vaseline on their noses. One person puts a red pompon on their nose and then tries to get the ball to pass from his nose to the person’s nose next to him. Continue down the line.

Fastest line wins.

46.

When your guests walk in, have them write a holiday haiku on an index card or slip of paper. Then post the haikus on a piece of poster board.

47.

Buy a jumbo Post-It wall pad. Stick a few sheets to your wall, each with a topic. Leave markers and let people draw anything funny or silly, such as what they want for Christmas or their favorite holiday memory.

48.

Form two lines. First person in each line rolls a die. When they get a six, they pass a small object to the person behind them who passes it on until it reaches the end. The person at the end of the line runs to the front and rolls the die. First team to reverse their line wins.

49.

Glaze your ham in Dr Pepper. The soda imparts a sweet, fruity glaze onto the ham. Celeb chef Alton Brown recommends soaking the ham in clean water for two days (changing the water twice a day) to remove excess salt, then placing it in a roasting pan and dousing it with a liter of soda and a cup of sweet pickle juice. Cover with foil, roast for half an hour at 400ºF before reducing the heat to 325ºF for three more hours, turning halfway.

N o. 50

A gift most everyone will cherish... The Yule Log from Allen Landscape Centre in Highland. Created with bundles of burch, fragrant evergreen boughs, pine cones and holiday ribbon.

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A Special Publication of The Times Media Company

Northwest Indiana’s Favorite Music School Music Lessons For ALL Ages Make Music The Gift of the Season

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A Special Publication of The Times Media Company

The eState Holiday Favorites [ December 9, 2009 ]

49

NO PAYMENTS, DEFERRED INTEREST FOR 12-MONTHS SINGLE-STAGE

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Corner of 45th & Colfax • Griffith, IN • 219-838-3600 www.terpstrasales.com Finance charges will be assessed on the promotional purchase amount from the date of sale. Finance charges will be waived if financed amount is paid in full within 12-months. If not paid in full, customer may extend financing on Toro’s revolving charge plan at a variable APR of Prime + 15.99%. Offer available through January 31, 2010 and applies ONLY to new Toro snowthrowers purchased in the U.S.. Minimum finance amount is $400 and minimum monthly finance charge is $2.00. A promotion fee of $29/$79/$125 will be added to the purchase balance for amounts financed > $1499/$3499/$4999 respectively. Offer subject to credit approval by GE Money and participation is at the option of the dealer. See participating dealer for complete details on this and other available financing options.

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Holiday Favorites [ December 9, 2009 ]

HIGHLAND 2158 45th Ave. 219-922-1545

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A Special Publication of The Times Media Company

Sweet Holiday Gifts

By Jenny Harper : Family Features

A

dmit it—a lot of you are already thinking about holiday shopping. I know I am! This year I think I’ll spend a little less time in the stores and a little more time in the kitchen, baking up some sweet holiday gifts.

I’ve picked some recipes that make large amounts, so I’ll have plenty to give away. Holiday Peppermint Bark couldn’t be easier to make - it only has two ingredients. The pretty red and white candies will look very festive in a holiday tin lined with red or green tissue paper or in a glass jar with a holiday ribbon tied around it.

I love making this fudge, too.

It can be made with semi-sweet chocolate, milk chocolate or butterscotch morsels. I like to make a batch of each, then mix and match the flavors in a goodie bag or holiday box. For an extra special presentation, put each piece in a little paper candy cup with holiday designs on it.

These tasty treats can be fun for the whole family to make together.

Attach a recipe card to each gift - that way your friends will know how to bake up some holiday cheer, too.

For more sweet gift giving ideas, visit www.VeryBestBaking.com.

Holiday Peppermint Bark (Makes 1 pound of candy) 2 cups (12-ounce package) Nestlé Toll House Premier White Morsels 24 hard peppermint candies, unwrapped LINE baking sheet with wax paper.

MICROWAVE morsels in medium, uncovered, microwave-safe bowl on MEDIUM-HIGH (70%) power for 1 minute; STIR. Morsels may retain some of their original shape. If necessary, microwave at additional 10- to 15-second intervals, stirring just until morsels are melted.

PLACE peppermint candies in heavy-duty plastic bag. Crush candies using rolling pin or other heavy object. While holding strainer over melted morsels, pour crushed candy into strainer. Shake to release all small candy pieces; reserve larger candy pieces. Stir morsel-peppermint mixture.

SPREAD mixture to desired thickness on prepared baking sheet. Sprinkle with reserved candy pieces; press in lightly. Let stand for about 1 hour or until firm. Break into pieces. Store in airtight container at room temperature.

A Special Publication of The Times Media Company

Toll House Famous Fudge Boil, stirring constantly, for 4 to 5 minutes.

Remove from heat.

(Makes 24 servings, 2 pieces per serving) 1½ cups granulated sugar 2/3 cup (5 fluid-ounce can) Nestlé Carnation Evaporated Milk 2 tablespoons butter or margarine ¼ teaspoon salt 2 cups miniature marshmallows 1½ cups (9 ounce) Nestlé Toll House Semi-Sweet Chocolate Morsels ½ cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional) 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

STIR in marshmallows, morsels, nuts and vanilla extract. Stir vigorously for 1 minute or until marshmallows are melted. Pour into prepared baking pan; refrigerate for 2 hours or until firm.

Lift from pan; remove foil. Cut into 48 pieces.

For Milk Chocolate Fudge: SUBSTITUTE 1¾ cups (11.5-ounce package) Nestlé Toll House Milk Chocolate Morsels for Semi-Sweet Morsels.

LINE 8-inch-square baking pan with foil.

COMBINE sugar, evaporated milk, butter and salt in medium, heavy-duty saucepan. Bring to a full rolling boil over medium heat, stirring constantly.

For Butterscotch Fudge: SUBSTITUTE 1 2/3 cups (11-ounce package) Nestlé Toll House Butterscotch Flavored Morsels for Semi-Sweet Morsels.

Holiday Favorites [ December 9, 2009 ]

51

Enjoyan

Eco-Friendly Holiday Season

W

hen it comes to colors, red and green are synonymous with the holiday season. The green of Christmas trees and the red of Santa Claus become more and more prevalent once the holiday season begins.

But this holiday season more and more people are involving green in their holiday season in an entirely different way than the norm. That’s because more people are going green this holiday season, choosing to make their holiday as eco-friendly as possible. Those looking to make their holiday greener than ever should consider the following tips. ❋ Embrace the e-vite. Holiday parties are a big part of the season. Be it the office holiday party, a gathering with friends or the traditional family gathering during the holidays, social calenders are especially busy this time of year. Unfortunately, many people still mail paper invitations to such gatherings. Those hosting a holiday party this year can positively impact the environment by choosing e-vites, which aren’t put to paper and, instead of traditional invitations, e-mailed out to friends and family. In addition to their environmental benefit, e-vites also make it easier for guests to RSVP, as it’s just a mouse click away instead of mailing the RSVP back to the host. ❋ Use energy efficient lighting when decorating. Though one of the most eco-friendly ideas around the holidays is to forgo holiday lighting entirely, many families find this tradition too much fun and too enjoyable to abandon completely.

That said, for families who want to positively impact the environment while 52

still enjoying holiday lighting this season, energy-efficient LED lighting can save substantial amounts of energy while also helping save some money as well.

LEDlights can be used both indoors and outdoors, and are just as bright and aesthetically appealing as traditional lighting. ❋ Shop locally. Shopping locally when looking for holiday gifts is not only a good way to boost the local economy, but it also helps reduce packaging and transportation, which can prove taxing on the environment. ❋ Wrap gifts in old newspapers.

Many communities mandate that citizens recycle old newspapers and magazines.

But before shipping off newspapers to the nearby recycling center, use those old newspapers to wrap the family gifts. This can help save money on wrapping paper and the newspaper will still be able to be recycled, even after it’s already served dual purposes. ❋ Get crafty. Ornaments to hang on the tree or around the house are a tradition many families enjoy each holiday season.

But even Mom would tell you the most valuable ornaments are the ones her children made.

Families can still make their own ornaments even if the kids are all grown. Make ornaments out of recycled materials. Making ornaments from such materials helps save on packaging and make the most out of those old materials around the house.

Holiday Favorites [ December 9, 2009 ]

❋ Replant the holiday tree. The debate of artificial versus living tree will live on forever. While there’s an argument to be made for

both living and artificial Christmas trees, including how each can be eco-friendly, families fond of living trees can help the environment by simply re-planting the tree once the holidays are over. Plant in a pot and place outside the house to ensure everyone still gets their living tree, but that tree can live on to see another day once the holiday season has passed.

Metrocreative

A Special Publication of The Times Media Company

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Holiday Favorites [ December 9, 2009 ]

53

REINDEER GAMES HEY KIDS!

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Here’s a Fun Holiday Coloring Page for You!

54

Holiday Favorites [ December 9, 2009 ]

A Special Publication of The Times Media Company

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Holiday Favorites [ December 9, 2009 ]

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Holiday Favorites [ December 9, 2009 ]

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