y a d i l o H E D I U G T GIF
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NOVEMBER 2015
GIFT GUIDE FIRST EDITION
NOVEMBER 2015
Relax & Dine In Our Country Setting
GIVE THE GIFT OF GOOD FOOD
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444 N. Pine St., Burlington, Wis. • (262) 763-3050 Located in Historic Downtown Burlington Hours: Mon.-Fri. 10:00 a.m.-5:30 p.m., Sat. 9:30 a.m.-4:00 p.m.
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Simple steps
NOVEMBER 2015
behaviorist Dr. Jacqueline Neilson. “When pets lack mental stimulation, they can become bored and depressed, and often create their own stimulating activities, such as chewing items or barking at passersby.” Beat this concern with food puzzles and toys that require pets to work, play or “hunt.” “Consider your pet’s personality when choosing holiday gifts,” says Neilson. “If your dog likes to chew things, a food toy that needs to be squeezed between the jaws may be ideal. Herding breeds may prefer a toy they can nudge.”
Resist those pleading eyes According to veterinary nutritionist Dr. Dottie LaFlamme, high-calorie tidbits contribute to caloric overload and bad habits, while lacking necessary nutrient balance. “Just one teaspoon of beef fat can contain almost twice the calories a small dog should consume in daily treats,” LaFlamme notes, adding that feeding from the table also promotes begging behavior. “If you must give pets a treat, feed it in their bowl after the meal to help with portion control.”
Take preventive measures Owners often experience a false sense of security about parasite prevention when the weather turns cooler. However, the holidays are no time to take a break from heartworm prevention, even though heartworms are spread by infected mosquitoes, says veterinary parasitologist Dr. Patricia Payne. Why? Because preventives work retroactively on heartworm larvae acquired earlier in the season. “There’s no way to accurately predict
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to keep pets healthy over the holidays
When making holiday plans, consider your pets’ health needs. Here, five veterinary experts weigh in on steps to keep pets happy and healthy amid the hubbub.
Avoid holiday hazards The holidays can be toxic to pets. Chocolate poisoning is one of the most common accidents during the holidays, according to veterinary critical care specialist and toxicologist Dr. Justine Lee. Other food foes include grapes, raisins, bones, unbaked yeast bread dough, alcohol and xylitol, a common sugar substitute. Likewise, “Potpourri liquid contains detergents that can cause severe ulcers and burns in a cat’s mouth, while tinsel can act as a severe linear foreign body when stuck in a cat’s stomach and intestines,” she explains. If you’re hosting, ensure houseguests pet-proof pill bottles.
GIFT GUIDE FIRST EDITION
past or future transmission, so the American Heartworm Society recommends year-round heartworm prevention for dogs and cats,” she explains. “Make sure to put a reminder on your holiday calendar to give routine monthly preventives to pets.” Give the gift of activity “When we removed hunting from pets’ daily lives, we reduced their physical and mental activity,” explains veterinary
Travel prep An estimated 30 million people travel with their pets annually, and holidays are primetime for hitting the road. Flying? Check your airline’s pet requirements. For car travel, invest in a carrier. “Your pet will appreciate a safe haven while traveling,” says Dr. Robert Stannard, who recommends adding a favorite blanket to provide a sense of familiarity. Travel bowls, favorite toys and medications are necessities, not luxuries. Just be careful not to overfeed. “Like us, pets can get motion sickness,” says Stannard. “Don’t feed your pet right before leaving, and limit food during travel to help prevent digestive upset.” With a few precautionary measures, your four-legged family members can have a happy, healthy holiday season. (STATEPOINT)
YMCA Camp MacLean 31401 Durand Ave. (County Rd E) 1 Mile east of Burlington, WI
22nd Annual “Crafts in the Woods”
(Saws Provided)
CUT YOUR OWN
FRESH CUT TREES
White Pine Colorado Spruce Norway Spruce
White Pine Scotch Pine Blue Spruce Fraser Fir
Arts and Crafts Show
Saturday November 28, 2015
Upper Midwest Newfoundland Club and Janesville-Beloit Kennel Club will again be helping out this year. Check our website for dates & times.
9am-4pm
Our Wisconsin weather is very unpredictable, so dress appropriately as there is no warming shelter
Over 50 crafters exhibiting in William L. Rust Lodge and 19 cabins
2015 Hours - OPEN
Nov. 21 to Dec. 24 Wreaths Boughs Garlands
Mrs. Claus’ Coffeehouse
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with cakes, candy, and treats
$1.00 age 6-11
Craft Raffle
Admission includes parking and shuttle
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262-275-5105 224184
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Come Spend the Day “In the Woods” YMCA Camp MacLean, 31401 Durand Ave. Burlington, WI 53105 Phone: (262) 763-7742
224366
Weekdays: 10am-Dark Weekends: 9am-Dark Closed Thanksgiving Day
Three ways to bring a touch of nostalgia to modern holiday celebrations Page 12
GIFT GUIDE FIRST EDITION
NOVEMBER 2015
Fond memories of holidays past are one of the many gifts of the seasons, and it turns out a bit of nostalgia is good for you. It can make you feel less lonely, bored or anxious, and more generous, tolerant and happy, according to a New York Times report on nostalgia research. You don’t need research to know that remembering good times makes you feel good. This holiday season why not foster a sense of nostalgia? Here are three ways to bring some of the best things about bygone holidays back into modern holiday celebrations.
Decorating with a touch of yesteryear It’s easy to evoke a sense of nostalgia with holiday decor. Retail and specialty stores carry a variety of decorations that evoke the look of past decades, from the roaring ‘20s to the sparkly ‘70s and beyond. Choose light strands with larger bulbs to mimic the look your grandparents enjoyed in the 1950s, or Candolier bubble lights for a ‘60s or ‘70s flare. Glass ornaments in intricate shapes also recall an older era, as do tabletop ceramic trees with mini lights. A simple online search will yield many nostalgic decorating options, or you can often find vintage pieces at yard sales and flea markets. The important thing is to look for items that remind you of a favorite holiday memory.
All Three Stores!
Finding nostalgia in favorite holiday foods Everyone has that time-honored family recipe that is the showpiece of holiday feasting. Certain foods and flavors, like peppermint candy canes, turkey with all the trimmings, pineapple-topped ham, and frosted sugar cookies are delicious musts for holiday celebrations. If it’s been a while since you made your family favorite, dust off the recipe this year. Or, you can try something that’s both new and nostalgic at the same time, like this recipe for Goji Ginger Popcorn Balls from Frontier Co-op.
minutes, until contents are well combined and easily pourable. Pour mixture over popcorn and using a wooden spoon or your hands, coat popcorn. Lightly wet your hands and form popcorn into 18, 3-inch balls. Serve as soon as possible. If desired, substitute non-sweetened or sweetened sunflower seed butter for the unmodified sunflower seed butter, but expect a slightly different consistency and taste.
Goji Ginger Popcorn Balls Ingredients 2 Tablespoons coconut oil 1/3 cup organic popcorn kernels 1/2 cup Frontier Organic Crystalized Ginger, diced into small pieces 1/2 cup Frontier Goji Berries 1/2 cup brown rice syrup 1/2 cup sunflower seed butter Directions In a large stockpot over mediumhigh heat, heat coconut oil until melted. Add popcorn kernels and cover pot with lid. Heat popcorn, shaking the pot occasionally, for about 3-5 minutes, until popping slows and the majority of the
kernels are popped. Remove from heat. Pour popcorn into a large bowl, removing un-popped kernels. Add crystalized ginger and goji berries. In a small saucepan over medium-low heat, combine brown rice syrup and sunflower seed butter, stirring occasionally. Continue to heat mixture for about 3-4
Reliving memories with music What holiday party would be complete without festive music playing in the background? While you may love modern holiday tunes, vintage music is a great way to create nostalgia during the holidays. Whether you’re a fan of traditional carols or favor rock reinventions of traditional tunes, music is a great way to create nostalgia at the holidays. Technology has made it easier than ever to find and enjoy music from every era. Why not put together a play list of holiday music that was popular during some of the happiest holiday seasons you remember? Can’t recall what was playing the year you finally got that skateboard you dreamed of? Check with your parents – your mom probably remembers. And even if she doesn’t, you’ll have a good time reminiscing together.
(BPT)
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Delicious food and wine GIFT GUIDE FIRST EDITION
NOVEMBER 2015
PAIRING TIPS FOR THANKSGIVING
With the weather cooling down, the kitchen will be heating up for America’s favorite holiday – Thanksgiving. How can you top last year’s decadent feast? The trick is to be thoughtful when pairing wines with food. Welcoming wines Medium-bodied crisp white wines will complement your hors d’oeuvres course. A tasty California Chardonnay is a classic choice and easily found at your neighborhood store. With notes of fresh pear and pineapple, it makes a fantastic pairing for mild cheeses and rich seafood appetizers, such as crab or salmon. A great example is St. Francis Sonoma County Chardonnay 2013. It is made from grapes picked in the cool of night to create a wine with delicate aromas, crisp acidity, and a rich, lingering finish. For your main course, try out a Zinfandel, a deeply aromatic red wine with flavors of juicy berries and a touch of spice. It is perfect to pair with flavorful dishes, savory cheeses, and, of course, roast turkey. Consider picking up a bottle of St. Francis Sonoma County “Old Vines” Zinfandel 2012, which features notes of wild blackberries and clove along with a long, smooth finish. “‘Old Vines’ Zinfandel is one of my
Great Holiday Meals Begin Here
Preparation Coat whole potatoes with oil along with 1 tablespoon of salt. Place wood chips in the smoking chamber of grill, light only the burner needed for smoking and place potatoes on rack off to the side of the direct heat. Smoke for 30 minutes. Hearty food Remove potatoes from grill. Place in If you’re looking to top last year’s a 9 x 11 inch pan with 1/4-inch water on meal, try a twist on the classic potato bottom. Cover with aluminum foil and dish with a recipe from Chef Bryan bake at 350 degrees for 30 minutes, or Jones of St. Francis Winery. until a paring knife pierces easily. Let cool. Cut potatoes in half, scoop out most Smoked Twice of inner potato, leaving about a half inch Baked Potatoes of potato all around for the shell. Use potato ricer to “rice” scooped out Ingredients potatoes into bowl. 3 large German Butterball potatoes Heat cream and butter together and 1 Tablespoon kosher salt, plus more for add to potatoes. seasoning Mix and then stir in crème fraiche, 1 Tablespoon canola oil cheeses, chives and marjoram. Season 2 cups applewood smoking chips soaked with salt and white pepper to taste. in water for 1/2 hour Place potato mixture in pastry bag, 3 Tablespoons heavy cream pipe mixture back into potatoes and 2 Tablespoons butter mound just over the level of the potato. 3 Tablespoons crème fraiche Bake at 350 degrees for 20 minutes 1/4 cup aged white cheddar cheese, until hot. shredded Pair with Sonoma County “Old 2 Tablespoons Parmesan, finely grated Vines” Zinfandel. Bunch of chives, finely chopped For more wine-paired recipes, visit 1 teaspoon fresh marjoram, finely StFrancisWinery.com/culinary/recipes. chopped Salt and white pepper to taste (STATEPOINT) family’s Thanksgiving traditions. From stuffing to pumpkin pie, it complements every flavor – spicy, savory, sweet and bold,” says Christopher W. Silva, president and CEO of St. Francis Winery & Vineyards.
HAPPY THANKSGIVING from
Season y a d li o H This eone in Need Help SomGift of Food with a RDS A C T GIF ABLE L I A V A
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NOVEMBER 2015
GIFT GUIDE FIRST EDITION
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Holiday treats without the hassle
It’s never too early to learn new holiday recipes to make the entertaining season easier. With only a few ingredients, you can quickly create drinks, dips and desserts, leaving you more time to socialize with family and friends at your next soiree. Holiday cheer(s) Greeting company with a beverage at the door is a sure sign of great hosting. Easily create batches of signature drinks in a high-powered blender for everyone to enjoy. Memorable holiday parties start with a toast before dinner, so why not surprise guests with a sparkling champagne smoothie? Blend your favorite fruit and yogurt flavors with chilled champagne for a fun twist on a special occasion drink. Use a blender that is powerful and versatile enough for group entertaining, such as the Vitamix Professional Series 500. Its 64-ounce container is ideal for mixing large batches. The blender also has preprogrammed settings for smoothies, hot soups and frozen desserts, so you can press a button, finish your party prepping and have your sparkling champagne smoothies ready in no time. As the evening winds down, offer a spin on the typical cup of coffee and serve pumpkin lattes. Blend canned pumpkin, white chocolate chips and spices with freshly brewed coffee. Top with whipped cream and a sprinkle of nutmeg for the perfect holiday touch. Deck the table with dips Whether you want to serve a few light snacks instead of an entire meal or ramp up to a main course, dips are an easy way to keep guests full and happy. They require little prep work and can be stored in the fridge while you’re waiting for friends and family to arrive. Change up an everyday cheese and crackers or veggie platter by making a traditional cheese fondue as a centerpiece. Blend Gruyere and Emmental cheese with dry white wine and seasoning to create a scrumptious appetizer. Need dipping ideas? Try cubed country French bread or grilled asparagus spears, broccoli and cauliflower. For a spicy twist, make a chipotle cheese fondue. Just add chipotle chilies and cilantro, and pair with tortilla chips. Create a salty and sweet variety by adding a chocolate hazelnut spread to the appetizer table – blend raw hazelnuts, cocoa powder and vanilla extract. Delectable desserts The holidays can be a low-stress dessert season, as you can make large batches of cookies ahead of time. Amp up almond cookies or snickerdoodles with a vegan cinnamon glaze by blending tofu, soy milk and cinnamon in a high performance blender, such as Vitamix. If you want to try something new and give guests options, combine two favorite holiday treats into one with an eggnog cheesecake. Whip up a smooth and creamy cheesecake batter in your blender in minutes. ‘Tis the season to have the best of both worlds in the kitchen and around the table. Keep your guests – and yourself – happy with simple recipes, and leave time to enjoy the next holiday get-together. (STATEPOINT)
Seasonal tips –
Simple ways to save time and enjoy the holidays
It may be the most wonderful time of year, but at times, it can also feel like the most stressful. This holiday season, take a fresh approach to your “to-do’s list” to save time and energy so you can be merry and bright. These 10 tips and tricks will help you relax, unwind and enjoy all the best parts of the holidays. Wrap while shopping It’s a given that shopping early avoids the last-minute frenzy, but you can save even more time and stress by getting gifts wrapped while out and about. Many department stores offer gift wrap services, all you need to do is ask. Streamline holiday cards Sending cards is a holiday tradition, but it shouldn’t cause unneeded stress. No need to worry about a dated address book – an easy trick is to cut return address labels from each card you receive and place in an envelope. Now it’s easy to send cards to loved ones and update your address book without hassle. Use baking hacks Using premade foods is one of the simplest (yet yummy) ways to create holiday bakery delights. Visit www.facebook.com/entenmanns for simple, amazing recipes like Entenmann’s Dreamy Chocolate Bars that feature crumbled Rich Frosted Donuts as the secret ingredient. While you’re baking, double the batch to have an extra on hand for a hostess gift.
Go tech free Smartphones ringing, emails beeping, texts buzzing – technology is time consuming. Avoid feeling overwhelmed by designating tech-free times for your family each day. Use this time (1-2 hours) to relax and focus on each other, perhaps with a hot cup of cocoa – the emails and messages will still be there later.
Schedule a salon visit With a long holiday to-do list, it’s hard to find time for you. That’s why treating yourself to a haircut or manicure can do wonders for your holiday spirit. Plus, you’ll look and feel fantastic when you attend all those festive get-togethers. Opt for an open house Having a holiday gathering adds to the season’s merriment, but where will everyone fit and how will you feed them? Instead of a formal dinner, opt for an open house with hors d’oeuvres. You’ll have less work and more time to spend with loved ones as they come and go.
Embrace holiday breakfasts Start every day off right by enjoying a delicious breakfast with your family. No need to spend hours in the kitchen cooking – instead include iconic breakfast classics that you and the kids love. For example, scrumptious Entenmann’s Donuts are undeniable when paired with fresh fruit for a quick breakfast delight. Find more breakfast inspiration at www.facebook.com/ Entenmanns. (BPT)
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GIFT GUIDE FIRST EDITION
NOVEMBER 2015
For Lasting Gifts
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For a merry holiday season, fun new books make great gifts for kids. Don’t know what’s the latest and greatest in the world of kid’s literature? Here are four new titles to consider for the young book lovers in your life.
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A classic, retold “Home Alone,” which arrived in theaters 25 years ago, is one of the top grossing live-action comedies of all time. Now, illustrator Kim Smith has reimagined the John Hughes story as a classic Christmas fable. “Home Alone: The Classic Illustrated Storybook” comes complete with bumbling burglars, brilliant booby-traps, and a little boy named Kevin who’s forced to fend for himself. Through a series of comic adventures, Kevin learns lessons about responsibility and the importance of family. Serial adventure Followers of the Miss Peregrine series will be excited to receive The Miss Peregrine’s Peculiar Children Boxed Set featuring all three novels in the series, including the newly released “Library of Souls: The Third Novel of Miss Peregrine’s Peculiar Children.” This action-packed series includes a special collector’s envelope of 12 peculiar photographs highlighting the most memorable moments of this extraordinary three-volume fantasy. Spooky mystery Meet Warren the 13th, of “Warren the 13th and the All-Seeing Eye,” a cursed 12 year-old Victorian bellhop who’s terribly
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unlucky, yet perpetually optimistic, hard working, and curious. Orphan Warren’s pride and joy is his family’s hotel, but he’s been miserable ever since his evil Aunt Annaconda took over the management. Annaconda believes a mysterious treasure is hidden somewhere on the grounds, and she’ll do anything to find it. If Warren wants to preserve his family’s legacy, he’ll need to find the treasure first – if the hotel’s many strange guests don’t beat him to it. This middle-grade adventure features illustrations on every page and a lavish two-column Victorian design. True tales for athletes Help make every goal, touchdown, and championship of all the greats come to life, from Babe Ruth (so incorrigible that his parents put him in reform school at age seven) to Muhammad Ali (who learned to fight at age 12 after a thief stole his bicycle). “Kid Athletes” is packed with inspirational stories from the world of sports, sharing tales from the childhoods of famous athletes. Billie Jean King rose from modest circumstances to win 39 grand slam championships, Wilma Rudolph triumphed over polio to become the fastest woman on earth, and martial arts legend Bruce Lee credited his success, in part, to childhood dance lessons. Have lit lovers on your list? While a gift card to a book retailer is nice, you can put even more thought into the present with a new exciting title. (STATEPOINT)
NOVEMBER 2015
GIFT GUIDE FIRST EDITION
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Toddler boredom
busters for the holiday season For many families, the holiday season means giving, celebrating, and spending time together, but it also means chilly weather and long hours cooped up inside the house. This year, consider using the downtime to help children tap into their natural creativity. Here are some festive ways to motivate kids to engage in fun and active learning. Family room fort If the weather outside is frightful, transform the family room or den into an opportunity for adventure. Kids can use the couch, blankets and all those boxes that seem to amass during the holidays to create a fort, which makes the perfect temporary stand-in for a tree house or outdoor clubhouse. Let kids get creative by decorating the outside of the boxes with snowflakes, snowmen and other seasonal shapes.
Imaginative toys Parents can ensure creativity continues long after kids unwrap their presents. Playtime is also learning time – according to Dr. Deborah Libby, early childhood reading and language expert and VTech expert panel member, “Play ideally begins early and continues throughout a child’s life, helping them learn, think, socialize, problem solve and ultimately have fun.” One great choice for sparking imaginations and building motor skills is the Go! Go! Smart Wheels Ultimate RC Speedway from VTech. With 4.5 feet of track, which incorporates features like a stunt ramp, elevator, track switches, and more, this new set inspires interactive play all year-round. Kids take charge by using a remote control to zoom the RC SmartPoint Racer around the brightly
colored course, which also activates playful music and sounds to further engage little ones. Another option is VTech’s Go! Go! Smart Friends Busy Sounds Discovery Home, cleverly designed to demonstrate cause and effect relationships to toddlers. Each friend comes alive when placed on one of the house’s MagicPoint locations, through the use of talk, song, light and motion. The characters also interact with one another, teaching children how to introduce themselves and build friendships. And the Go! Go! Smart Animals Grow & Learn Farm features an electronic barn that teaches kids about colors, numbers, and plants. When toddlers roll Reggie the Rooster over each of the farm’s SmartPoint locations, they’ll hear new phrases, music and sound effects. Gadgets don’t have to mean passivity
– these toys use interactive technology to occupy kids with the kind of imaginative play and creativity that furthers development and learning, long after the holidays are over. Arts and crafts Making holiday decorations at home is a great way to get children involved in stimulating, hands-on activities. With just a few simple art supplies, they can craft their own greeting cards, create snowflake shapes that double as ornaments, or help design gingerbread houses. Such activities not only enhance fine motor skills, but also inspire kids to use their innate inventiveness. This holiday season and beyond, keep boredom at bay by encouraging kids to be creative and mentally active.
(STATEPOINT)
Great holiday gifts GIFT GUIDE FIRST EDITION
NOVEMBER 2015
TO HELP KIDS LEARN
One of the best ways to motivate kids to learn is by making it fun, and the holiday season is the perfect opportunity to equip the kids in your life with gifts that are equal parts entertaining and educational. For some great gift ideas that turn what could be a chore into a good time, consider the following. Watch it grow Whether you do-it-yourself or opt for a store-bought kit, a terrarium offers children a hands-on lesson in horticulture, biology, earth science and responsibility. Terrariums, which make great gifts, can be used to grow beautiful plants and flowers, or edible herbs for the kitchen. Pair this gift with books about nature and gardening and you may inspire a green thumb for life. Smart gaming Kids will always want to play video games, so why not allow them to learn while playing? Check out VTech’s InnoTV, an educational TV-connected gaming system designed with preschoolers in mind. It features an easy-to-use kid-friendly
wireless controller and learning games for ages 3-8 that introduce language arts, science, technology, engineering and math concepts and more. InnoTV also offers access to a huge educator-supported library of additional games on VTech’s Learning Lodge app store, as well as compatibility with a variety of InnoTab MAX cartridges. “The family gaming console has found a welcome place in many family rooms for good reason,” says Dr. Eric Klopfer, VTech expert panel member and platform learning expert. “The console connected to the TV provides an interactive focal point for family gaming.” InnoTV comes with single-player, ageappropriate educational games (many aligned with Common Core curriculum standards), and allows for multiple players – providing opportunities for social play, which is important for preschoolers learning to share, cooperate and take turns. To learn more, visit www.vtechkids.com/InnoTV.
may not offer the exact programs they are looking for. You can nurture musical talent and interest at holiday time, however. If your child is indecisive, consider a temporary rental of his or her instrument of choice and a starter pack of just a few lessons.
Make music Many children wish to explore the world of music, but unfortunately, their schools
Kids’ size science Bourgeoning scientists will love making their own observations and discoveries.
Luckily, kids-size scientific apparatus are available for those just beginning to explore everything from cells of plants to the cosmos. Telescopes and microscopes designed with kids in mind can help young ones develop the skills needed to succeed in science. When making your gift list this season, don’t forget the notion that fun and learning are two peas in a pod. (STATEPOINT)
Make it Easy to Give Not Sure What They Want?
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NOVEMBER 2015
GIFT GUIDE FIRST EDITION
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Thoughtful stocking stuffers for the holiday season While the big-ticket items are always a thrill to bestow and receive during the holidays, sometimes smaller stocking stuffers are the most needed and appreciated. Here are some ideas to get you started. Tech accessories Gifting new tech devices? Be sure you also equip recipients with all the accessories they will need to enjoy their gifts on the go. From hard shell cases that offer protection from slips and drops (as these incidents are bound to occur), to app store gift cards for quick downloading of the software needed to make the most of these items. Batteries included Nothing kills the thrill of receiving a new device quite like the phrase “batteries not included.” From remote-controlled cars to digital cameras, gift recipients won’t want to just look at their new toys, they’ll want to use them right away. Avoid disappointment by providing juice for all those battery-operated goodies. Consider pairing cutting edge gifts with cutting edge Energizer EcoAdvanced AA and AAA batteries. They are the brand’s longestlasting alkaline battery and the world’s first AA battery made with four percent recycled batteries. To learn more, visit energizer.com/ ecoadvanced. Travel For those loved ones who have traveled to spend the holidays with you, consider a thoughtful gift that can be used during the journey home. From travel-sized board games to snack packs or tiny notebooks, these items will come in handy whether gift recipients are traveling by plane, train or automobile. This year, don’t forget the stocking stuffers – they are a great opportunity to show your loved ones just how thoughtful you are. (STATEPOINT)
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Ways small businesses can prepare for the holidays The holidays bring many things to mind – eggnog, Christmas trees, piles of presents, the first snowfall and more. However, for small business owners, the holidays signify more than good cheer and time spent with friends and family. For many small businesses, November and December mark the “make or break” time of the year, when the overall level of profitability is determined, and sometimes, these months decide whether or not the business survives. No wonder many small business owners begin preparing for these two months well in advance. Many experts in the field argue that a successful holiday season begins in the virtual world. Increasing bandwidth and redesigning your website to attract more customers are all part of an overall tune up that is vital to avoid any headaches during the busy rush. Stock up and plan for doorbusters From the cyber world to the world of brick and mortar, inventory planning is at the foundation of a successful holiday season. For many small business owners, stocking up early is a way to secure the best deals from vendors. The challenge is in navigating between running out of product and being overstocked with unsold product. This involves a balance between consulting last year’s sales reports and this year’s projections. It’s part science and part art. With inventory, sales projections and numerous other figures lined up behind the scenes, many proceed to decide what products
will attract customers to the store. These are the so-called doorbusters, and the earlier they are announced the more successful they are at generating the buzz that gets customers flocking to the store. For years, small business owners have been turning to Staples Copy & Print to help create this buzz. From customized printed signs and banners to promotional gifts, the marketing solutions they need are available at their neighborhood Staples. A time to give back to your customers Many small business owners find it important to show their appreciation and give thanks to the people who keep their businesses strong – their customers. At Staples, small business owners can create branded calendars or magnets with a year at a glance calendar on them. Many find such gifts perform the double duty of customer appreciation and advertising. Keep morale high Needless to say, the holidays are a stressful time of year for small business owners. They can also be stressful for employees. As the hours add up, it’s important for business owners to keep the morale and energy high among the employees. Often times this is done by giving incentives that reward performances or goals met. Staples offers many higher end gifts, such as laser engraved Bluetooth speakers and travel bags that can be given as rewards, or gifts, to employees.
(BPT)
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GIFT GUIDE FIRST EDITION
NOVEMBER 2015
Holiday entertaining without the hassle Rather than worry about the hassle of hosting this holiday season, prepare for visitors and entertaining with these tips and tricks.
friends and family or holiday cards to create an eye-catching display.
GET A FRESH START
Seemingly daunting tasks can be fun if you’re strategic and give yourself time to do them right. When it comes to shopping for your main course, avoid weekend crowds. The day of your event set the table in the morning so that unforeseen events or last minute stops won’t throw you off course.
Trying to prepare everything at the last minute when guests are knocking at your door creates unwanted stress. Instead, clean and prep the house a few days in advance. Quickly turn chores to checks on your to-do list. For example, use a dab of glue to fix the pesky towel rod in the powder room that keeps coming loose, or to repair broken handles on drawers and cabinets. While you’re making home improvements here and there, get organized for holiday guests by relocating your own coats from the hall closets, leaving room for your visitors’ winter gear. If your guests are bringing appetizers or cocktails, clean out the fridge in advance to have ample storage space.
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Tired of hanging the same wreath on your door year after year? Create a new, modern focal point that can be used for multiple occasions. Spray paint a wooden wreath form and mini clothespins silver and gold. Once dry, adhere the clothespins to the wreath form in varying layers. Use an adhesive that dries instantly and won’t leave you with messy glue gun strands, such as Krazy Glue’s Maximum Bond No-Run Gel, which will give you time to decorate the rest of your home, rather than cleaning up your crafting space. By flipping a few of the clothespins around on the outside, you can attach pictures of
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Rather than spending time and money shopping for expensive décor for each upcoming party, create your own one-of-a-kind centerpieces and place settings. Add flair to your tablescape by affixing decorative gems or outdoor sprigs onto napkin rings and handwritten name cards. A glue pen designed for delicate tasks, such as Krazy Glue’s Precision Control Pen, is easy to hold and dries instantly. Guests will appreciate the personal touches, which will be sure to spark some dinner conversation.
WRAP IT UP
Chances are you’ll need some last-minute gifts for unannounced guests. Stock up on a few items with universal appeal. Jars of locally made preserves, decorative candles, wrapped soaps or bottles of wine are good to have on hand to make everyone feel welcome this holiday season. ‘Tis the season to be festive, not frazzled. Keep guests – and yourself – happy with simple tips and tricks, and have time to relax and enjoy your gettogether. (STATEPOINT)
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Ways to give back this holiday season NOVEMBER 2015
When making this year’s holiday gift list, consider how you might also give back to your local community. The holiday season is the perfect time of year to do this, when volunteer and donation opportunities increase. Here are a few ideas to give back in your community:
further thanks to the Marine Toys for Tots Foundation, which is able to purchase books at a deep discount. To find a participating location near you and make a donation that will help ensure families everywhere have access to books, visit theupsstore.com.
The gift of literacy Only one-third of all students entering high school are proficient in reading, according to a National Assessment of Education Progress report. Brighten children’s smiles this holiday season while also giving them an opportunity to succeed at school and beyond. The Marine Toys for Tots Foundation has given new toys to children in need for more than 60 years. The organization also extends its reach through a partnership with The UPS Store through the Toys for Tots Literacy Program, which provides economically disadvantaged children an opportunity to succeed in school and beyond. Donations can be made at The UPS Store locations nationwide or online at toysfortots.org/literacy. One-hundred percent of all proceeds go to support local children and literacy programs. Your donations go even
Bake sale When you’re busy making trays of cookies for your big holiday party, consider making an extra batch or two, and encouraging friends and neighbors to do the same. With your combined efforts, you can host a bake sale, which can be a lucrative and enjoyable way to raise money for your favorite charity. If you don’t have time to organize an event like this, you can still give back through your baking. Wrap packs of cookies or other goodies in bags as thank you gifts to your children’s teachers, coaches and others in your community who have served or been kind to your family all year. Volunteer your time One of the best ways to give back is by donating your valuable time. Make a trip to a local nursing home and spend time with residents who may not have
How to celebrate
family or anyone else to visit them this season. Additionally, soup kitchens are often in need of extra hands during the holidays. Ask your local organizations about volunteer opportunities. While holiday wish lists are often
Deck the halls The holidays are marked by festive decorations. This year, consider a new theme or try your hand at DIY decorations. Create a rustic holiday feel with mason jars, fresh greenery and candles. Or for a more formal look, go chic with gold bulbs, white accents and burlap. Experiment with different materials and ornaments to create a one-of-a-kind, inexpensive
full of fun gadgets, clothes and toys, there are still many in your community lacking more basic necessities. This season, think beyond your personal wants and do your best to give back. (STATEPOINT)
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Great gifts Gifts for friends and family can get expensive. Save money with DIY ideas. Try making a homemade soup mix in a jar. Purchase canning jars and fill them with soup ingredients like beans, spices and pasta. Discount retailers like Dollar General carry a variety of supplies and delicious ingredients to make any DIY gift tasty. Finish the jar with a ribbon and use the gift tag to include cooking instructions on the back. For the person who has everything, pick up a gift card to his or her favorite restaurant or store. Attach a bow or ornament to give it a seasonal touch. Or, consider giving the gift of time. Gather friends together for a baking day or cookie swap.
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Classic recipes One of the most iconic aspects of the holidays is the food. Baked treats, rich casseroles, roasted meats and holiday candy are all wonderful enjoyments of the season. And the more you prepare yourself, the more you save. This year, try new recipes and have fun with unique ideas. Check out delicious and easy dishes for your holiday gatherings at dollargeneral.com/easymeals. Display your spread on a beautiful tablescape with a decorative wreath as the centerpiece. Add a holiday tablecloth, holiday bulbs and decorative LED lights to give family and friends a warm and festive place to share meals. Enjoy this holiday season with affordable, fun and easy tips to make the most of your special celebrations.
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the holidays for less
The delights of the holiday season can add up quickly. From cooking and baking to shopping for the perfect gift, the season can take its toll on your wallet. With some smart planning, you can enjoy everything the holidays have to offer without breaking your budget, say the discount experts at Dollar General, who are providing some shrewd tips to help keep costs down.
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GIFT GUIDE FIRST EDITION
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(STATEPOINT)
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