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Holiday Gift Guide
Advertising Supplement to The Gazette & Gazette-Star | November 2013
giving
N E E R G ISTOCKPH
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ts f i g y l d n rie f o c e p o T
BY SHARON NAYLOR
LIVING GIFTS SUCH AS POTTED HERBS, TREE SEEDLINGS, FLOWERS AND GREEN PLANTS NATURALLY CLEAN THE AIR INSIDE A HOME.
H
igh on the priority list for many this holiday season is giving eco-friendly presents. Gifts can be made from sustainable materials, be manufactured in fairtrade situations, and perhaps support a charitable organization or artisan co-op in a developing country when a percentage of each sale benefits a group making a positive difference. “I love to give gifts that give not only to the recipient but also to the artisans who made the gift. It’s just a perfect way of creating good energy,” said Sophie Uliano, author of “Gorgeously Green” and creator of the green lifestyle website of the same name. She regularly posts her reviews of eco-friendly gifts with a supportive benefit to each buy. “I love the bloom travel tins at prosperitycandle.com,” said Uliano. “The soft and spherical tins are hand-painted. The candle wax is a natural soy blend with a cotton wick.
November 2013 | Advertising Supplement to The Gazette & Gazette-Star
It can be cleaned and reused forever as a trinket box, and it comes in an eco-friendly gift box stor card sharing the miswith a story sion of the company. Prosperity Candle is an amazing organization (that) helps women in the aftermath of war or natural disasters to rebuild th their lives.” The key to many eco-friendly gifts is the ssharing of the artisan’s story, often a story of triumph over adversity or a compelling tale of an artist leaving a six-figure corporate career to pursue their passion of supporting rain forest preservatio or a community of preservation artists in a far-off country. A tag ecoon an eco-friendly gift adds the element of connecting the recipient to this artisan, knowing their name, feeling w wonderful that this pretbrac or bamboo coaster ty shawl, braided bracelet o a flow of positivity in set makes them a part of the world. Eco-friendly gifts can also be healthier when they’re made without toxic chemicals or chemical-laden fragrances or dyes. Top choices in this category include BPA-free drink bottles in bright patterns, as well as spa and pampering products, such as organic sugar scrubs, soaps, facial creams, beeswax foot creams and nail polish sets. Among the popular items to make a home smell fabulous are aromatherapy candles or scent spritzers made with 100-percent natural ingredients. An organic tea candle set beneath an aromatherapy wax disc can make a home smell lovely; the recipient may also enjoy his or her future purchases of safe and organic aromatherapy wax discs from the brand’s collection for a healthier home throughout the year. Uliano said that eco-friendly gifts can introduce people to healthier products in a subtle way. It’s just a pretty, floral-scented candle, given with a tag or label explaining its green qualities, without any judgment or instruction to “live a greener lifestyle.”
Bamboo is one of the best-known ecofriendly materials because it grows so quickly and is sustainable. In recent years, artisans have found amazing ways to create products using bamboo, including serving bowls, dishware, writing instruments and ultra-soft garments—robes, pajamas, yoga pants, T-shirts and socks. You can find everything from pens to picture frames made of bamboo, which can make it easy for you to shop eco-friendly for everyone on your gift list. Edible eco-friendly gifts can include organic gourmet-flavored popcorn—a top trend this year—organic chocolate collections, organic fruits delivered every month, and organic preserves and jams. Living gifts such as potted herbs, tree seedlings, flowers and green plants that clean the air inside a home naturally get to the heart of green gift items. Gift cards to local, organic nurseries can let your recipient pick out the pepper, tomato, pole bean and herb plants he or she would like to plant. One big trend in living gifts is the glass-domed terrarium, which can be purchased already planted or made as a DIY project with family members. Another option is a donation made to a reputable organization, such as the Arbor Day Foundation, that will plant trees in your recipient’s name. The tree will help to replenish a ravaged forest fire region and create an ecological home for birds, butterflies and other creatures. For children, eco-friendly toys can be safe and educational. “When it comes to the toys and games kids are playing with (and oftentimes chewing on), parents are more conscious than ever of what toys are made of and of what toys they bring into their homes. A great way to ensure that playtime is free of harsh chemicals and BPAs is to gift environmentally friendly toys and games,” said Dr. Stevanne Auerbach, known as Dr. Toy and an expert in the best toys on the market. Auerbach’s most recent list of eco-smart toys includes a plant-a-bean kit with a vertical wooden maze for the beanstalk to grow and arch through, wind-powered toys, and craft kits. Whatever the gift you give, be sure to wrap it in eco-friendly wrapping paper. –CREATORS.COM–
Holiday Gift Guide
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top gifts for
GUYS BY SHARON NAYLOR
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en can sometimes be vague when asked what they want, or they might give a sweet reply of “I have you, and that’s enough.” While nice to hear, it doesn’t help you find something fantastic to make him smile when he opens it. And there are likely other men on your list— father, brother and a best guy friend. A top trend among men’s gifts this year is to personalize it, said Chris Easter, co-founder of The Man Registry website. The man’s name or initial appears on an enormous variety of “guy gifts” this year, including barbecue tool sets, pilsner glass collections, and items with a dream lifestyle twist, such as the surfboard-shaped bamboo cutting board. Also big in the personalized gift picks at The Man Registry is the customized wooden bar or grill sign to hang above the space he considers his domain. Because beer is such a hot trend, top gift picks include beer recipe kits for the home-brewing hobbyist. Add a fun FYI to his gift by printing out the White House-shared recipes of what may have been the first beers ever brewed at their location—a honey porter and honey ale—found at the website AskMen. An extra little factoid gift adds interest to his beer recipe or beer glass gift, and it gives him a topic to share with company during your next get-together with friends. Scotch and bourbon are also hot gift picks this year, especially small-batch distillery liquors from a well-known brand.
ABOVE: ISTOCKPHOTO/DIGITALSKILLET. RIGHT: ISTOCKPHOTO/PHOTOLYRIC
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Holiday Gift Guide
Because beer is such a hot trend, top gift picks include beer recipe kits for the home-brewing hobbyist. Advertising Supplement to The Gazette & Gazette-Star | November 2013
A collection of those bottles in ra his bar would give him extra status when he serves to friends. s. For the sports fan, there are re always pro-style jerseys of his favorite player, especially if the he player has just been traded to a new team and his entire jerrsey and T-shirt collection iss outdated. Load him up with h NFL, NBA, NHL or FIFA A gear, such as team logo coast-ers, drink cozies and coolerss for his sports-watching fandom.. Speaking of sports watching, g, you might get him an upgradee in your cable television plan to thee full sports package. And then there are always tickets to a professional game. You might buy them through the team’s official ticket purchase site or acquire two great seats via a colleague or relative who owns season tickets. (Be wary of online auction sites, since a disreputable seller could be hawking fake tickets.) Gadgets are always a hot category for men’s gifts, from an upgraded heart monitor for the runner guy to a GPS golf watch, giving the golfer in your life the edge on the links. A gadget timing his grilling will help
Gadgets like this Garmin GPS golf watch give guys better game.
hi him pull those filet mignons— w which you can give him with th the grill timer—off the fire at th the perfect time. And home im improvement-type guys love laser la levels and other tools that he help them get weekend projects done don faster. In that category, a gift ca card to the home improvement store ne never fails, but these tech “toys” are often something guys wouldn’t indulge in w when they’ve gone to the store for fertilizer fertilizer, furnace filters and lightbulbs. “We’d falle fallen into a rut of giving each other purely practical gifts every year,” said Evangeline Descarte, who has been married for a long time. “So in the bag of new white T-shirts and new white socks that he gets every year as one of his gifts, I added some top designer dress socks in bright colors to really stand out. They were just a little something indulgent for him, and he was happier about those than he was about the new speaker I bought for his computer.” – CREATORS.COM –
ABOVE: STOCKBYTE/GEORGEDOYLE/THINKSTOCK. LEFT: CREATORS.COM PHOTO COURTESY OF GARMIN
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what to get your
CO-WORKERS BY JULIA PRICE
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o-workers can be the hardest people to shop for during the holidays, but have a little fun with it; their presents can be the easiest gifts to cross off your list. For the co-workers you either spend the least amount of time with or aren’t as close to, a simple gift card can cover the bases. A $5 gift card to Starbucks or other café is easily tucked into any wallet. For a co-worker who drives a long way to work, a gas gift card is another practical yet thoughtful present to pass out. And the best part about these presents is that if the co-worker hates it, he or she can regift it and pay it forward. A more personalized, yet still cost-friendly, gift idea is to personalize office supplies, such as pens and pencils. On average, a 12-piece engraved pencil set costs roughly $9.99. It may sound simple, but people get excited when they feel important; since pencils and pens are used often, the gift will be a constant reminder that you took the time to
make them feel special. Get information at www.personalizationmall.com. Perhaps you work at a startup or a smaller company where the whole group of employees is really close. Suggest a secret Santa or grab bag situation with a price limit. This also creates a sense of camaraderie among co-workers. A secret Santa allows you to focus on the person whose name you picked and pay attention to what that person likes. If you decide to try the grab bag approach of gift giving, reach out to your fellow employees and brainstorm about what type of gift you should get. Some gifts that tend to work for everyone are fleece blankets (that could even be kept at someone’s desk), a personalized T-shirt with a work-related inside joke or funny slogan, a gift card to a popular restaurant and a coffee-table photo book—for example, one with photos of the area. This type of book is not usually something someone would buy for themselves, yet is a warm and interesting read for guests who visit a home.
ISTOCKPHOTO/ALBUQUERQUE
Don’t forget to take care of the cleaning crew, the mail crew, the security personnel and everyone else who help keep the office running smoothly behind the scenes. One idea is to collect cash from co-workers and pool these funds together to give out in cards or envelopes. Another idea—and this could also be used as a gift idea for your co-workers—is to bake for each person and wrap the goodies a festive way. Make sure you are aware of everyone’s allergies.
When it comes to your boss, don’t pull a “Christmas Vacation”—the classic movie in which the evil boss has an office filled with identical gifts. If your boss loves scotch, go ahead and gift him a nice bottle, but don’t stretch beyond your budget. Again, pay attention to what she says she likes, and remember that in this and any case, thoughtfulness always leads to a great gift. –CREATORS.COM–
John 3:16 Christian Bookstore
7953 Annapolis Road, Lanham, Maryland 301-459-5999 john316bookstore.com Closed Sunday and Monday Tuesday-Friday 10:00AM-7:00PM Saturday 10:00AM-6:00PM 1911635
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Holiday Gift Guide
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Advertising Supplement to The Gazette & Gazette-Star | November 2013
turning the tables on holiday
MUSIC BY CHELLE CORDERO
Crosley’s Advance turntable features USB technology to transfer the music from vinyl to digital files.
B
aby boomers and older Gen Xers remember spinning discs of music on record players that sat like status symbols in their living rooms ms and basements. A lightweight robotic arm with a pin-like needle made contact with a vinyl platter, which turned at 33 1/3 or more revolutions ons per minute. It was an era of romantic melodies, bubblegum music and dirty ty dancing. In recent years, the turntable became a favorite of DJs looking to mix and modify tunes. The music industry went the way of eight-track and cassette tapes to CDs and MP3s. Just like the record going round and round, it’s now come full circle. Purists and music connoisseurs longing for the record sound quality are bringing vinyl back. Newer records are being pressed and old albums are resurfacing for sale. Sales of vinyl albums are at an all-time high and more than twice as high as the ’90s. But don’t go dusting off that old phonograph player that’s been stored in the attic just yet. Vinyl is fragile; it can scratch, break and warp. rp. Don’t risk doing permanent damage to your collection by putting an old, dull needle or an unbalanced turntable to work. It is a good idea to have it checked ked out first. Newer versions offer some great features, including hooking up to your home
CRE
ATO
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Y OF CRO SL
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Holiday Gift Guide
Advertising Supplement to The Gazette & Gazette-Star | November 2013
Expert Brendan Leonard recommends focusing on small but useful items, such as water bottles, when buying for the outdoorsman.
CREATORS.COM PHOTO COURTESY OF PATITUCCIPHOTO
affordable treats for your
NATURE LOVER LOOK FOR HIGHLY RATED GEAR AND
CLOTHING THAT ARE LIGHT, COMPACT AND WATERPROOF.
B
BY ERIC CHRISTENSEN
uying gifts for friends or family members who love the outdoors can be difficult for those who don’t enjoy disappearing for days at a time to hike, camp or fish. A trip to an outdoor supply store can overwhelm us with space-age materials, clothes for every climate and technical gear that looks downright alien. But if you think small, focus on the fundamentals and get creative this holiday season, gift giving will be easy. The first tip for shopping for a nature enthusiast is to think small: Focus on the modest but useful accessories. Brendan Leonard, who has written for Backpacker, Outside and Men’s Journal and runs the website semi-rad.com, recommends water bottles, headlamps and multi-tools. More specifically, he recommended the CamelBak Podium Chill insulated squeeze bike bottle ($12), Hydro Flask standard-mouth vacuum bottle ($26) or the Klean Kanteen insulated stainless-steel wide-mouth bottle ($30). Leonard suggested the Petzl Tikka Plus 2 ($40) or the Princeton Tec Vizz ($50) headlamps. “A good, basic headlamp is useful for
trail runners and hikers who stay out after sunset or start before sunrise, anyone who camps, and when you’re not outdoors, you can use them when fixing things around the house,” he said. For multi-tools, he suggested the Gerber Suspension Multi-Pliers ($35) or the Leatherman Skeletool ($65). The second tip is to focus on the fundamentals: Look for highly rated gear and clothing that are light, compact and waterproof, such as tents, backpacks, compression sacks, sleeping bags, sleeping pads and clothes. These tend to be more expensive because of the high-tech materials and activity-specific modifications. And many users can be picky when it comes to gear or clothing, so it helps if the person you’re buying for can provide you with a list of specific items. But, if you don’t have such a list, Geoffrey Conner, a gear expert, or “gearhead,” for the outdoor gear site Backcountry.com, said, “Don’t be afraid to call and pick a gearhead’s brain. We all love to help people get the right gear for their trips and activities.” If the site you’re using doesn’t employ similar experts, Conner said, “Quality is key. Generally, if you spend a little bit more, you –CONTINUED ON 14–
November 2013 | Advertising Supplement to The Gazette & Gazette-Star
Holiday Gift Guide
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especially for the
BOOK LOVER BY SHARON NAYLOR
B
ook lovers can often be the easiest people to cross off your holiday list; there are so many products geared to readers both young and old. For instance, Dana Holmes, editor-in-chief of Gifts.com, recently announced the winner of the site’s annual Giftee Award, given to the most innovative and no-fail present in each category. A set of polyresin bookends designed as two halves of an adorable, curly-tailed gold pig won in the reading category. Giving book accessories removes the concern that a book lover has already read it. In addition to bookends, here are some of the top gift ideas for book lovers: • E-READER COVERS AND CASES. Designers such as Jonathan Adler and Lilly Pulitzer offer their signature designs in protective and stylish covers for Barnes & Noble Inc.’s Nook e-book readers and other devices, adding a sense of fashion to this practical gift.
• E-READER STAND. Making it easier to read for a long dura-
BANANASTOCK/THINKSTOCK
tion, e-reader stands prop up the device for easy use. Stands and their covers come in a range of trendy bright colors, basic black or gray, and in patterned designs.
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Holiday Gift Guide
Advertising Supplement to The Gazette & Gazette-Star | November 2013
• E-READER SLEEVES. Your avid reader can slip his or
• •
•
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her e-reader device into this padded fabric sleeve, which a growing number of Etsy artisans are crafting in eco-friendly fabrics, as well as fashion-forward patterned designs and monogrammed styles. BOOK LIGHT. Clipped onto a book or e-reader, this LED light allows for easier reading in dark rooms, such as when a partner or child is sleeping. LAP DESK WITH A CUSHIONED BOTTOM. The bottom is cushion and the top is hard wood or plastic; a ridged edge holds a book or magazine in place for easier reading. The lap desk surface also allows the reader to take notes or answer a book’s worksheet questions in a notepad or journal as they work through the latest self-help best-sellers. T-SHIRT WITH A FAVORITE BOOK QUOTE or a humorous take on a book title or theme. These can be found in catalogs, such as Signals, or online. CafePress. com offers creatively designed shirts featuring “Pride and Prejudice,” “The Hunger Games,” “Fifty Shades of Grey” and many other titles. You can also create a custom book-themed tee, personalizing the design and slogan with the recipient’s favorite novel. A GIFT CARD TO A BOOKSTORE—chain or independent. A book-loving friend will get the added thrill of a guilt-free shopping spree while rifling through piles of books, magazines and other bookstore finds. This
•
gift is a favorite of book lovers who love being in a physical bookstore or who have had their eye on a eries. pricey coffee-table book or book series. A GIFT CARD TO A COMIC BOOK K STORE. “My husband collects comic books, and nd I saw that the comics shop had a collection of the rare and valuable ones. I didn’t want to spend nd $100 on a rare ‘Spiderman,’ not knowing if myy husband already owned it, so the gift card let him m get the one he’s really wanted for so long,” said gift-giving newlywed Shae Blake. “He was like a kid in a candy store, so I’m getting him im gift cards to the comics shop for future holiday presents.”
Reading accessories are a top gift pick for bibliophiles.
• THE EXPERIENCE OF MEETING A
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FAVORITE AUTHOR at a booksigning event. Chain bookstores and smaller ones alike attract big-name authors on book tours. Surprise the reader on your list with an outing where he or she will get to meet an author, get a signed book ith the author. on your dime and get a photo with AND FINALLY, A FREE GIFT: a homemade emade coupon giving your book lover a blissfully sfully quiet afternoon of time to read uninterrupted nterrupted while you tend to the chores and the kids.
CREATORS.COM PHOTO COURTESY OF CB2
–CREATORS.COM–
Your Complete Prince George’s County
Guide
to
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This special section will feature information on: 4 Detailed directory on private schools. 4 The overall mission of Private Schools. 4 How to apply to private schools, plus much more!
Publishes: Thursday, January 30, 2014 Space Deadline: January 14, 2014 Ad OK Deadline: January 21, 2014
Call to Reserve Space Today!
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65 YEARS OF THE PARTY! Nicki Emam, Independent Consultant Bowie, MD
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the lowdown
on this season’s
HOT TOYS BY DIANE SCHLINDWEIN
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PHOTODISC/DIGITAL VISION/THINKSTOCK
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Holiday Gift Guide
arbie’s moving up in the world, and Elmo’s back in a big way, as is Furby, according to toy experts who are predicting what kids will be listing on their letters to Santa this holiday season. “You know, everyone always asks, ‘What’s the next Elmo?’” said Christopher Byrne, known internationally as The Toy Guy. “This year, there is one: Big Hugs Elmo. I’m not sure if it’s going to the cultural phenomenon that it was in 1996, but this is the most interactive Elmo ever.” Hug Elmo to have him hug back. Move him to see him dance. Lay him down to hear a lullaby and sleeping sound effects. Kids will love him, Byrne predicted. Wal-Mart had a team of children pick their top 20 favorite toys and Big Hugs Elmo came out a winner there, too, as well as the new robotic pet Furby and a new Barbie Dreamhouse play set, among others. “Barbie’s newly renovated, three-story Dreamhouse will debut as every girls’ dream,” said Margaux Vega, public relations representative for Fisher-Price and Mattel. “The new house features six fabulous rooms and luxury details that any doll will appreciate with pink ‘stainless steel’ appliances and not one but two elevators. It also features the ultimate closet and a bathroom for quick outfit changes.” For older girls, Monster High continues to be a big hit in the form of Monster High 13 Wishes doll assortment, she said. Among the dolls are Twyla, Gigi Grant and Howleen Wolf. Dolls come with a pet, diary, brush, doll stand and character-specific accessories. For girls who want to craft their own fun, Byrne said the Shimmer ‘n Sparkle Cra-Z-Loom rubber band bracelet maker is popular. “This is probably the hottest arts and craft toy out there,” he said. “Rubber band looms are huge!” Little girls are going to request Doc McStuffins toys, he predicted. “Doc McStuffins continues to be the ‘it’ girl for the preschool set,” said Byrne, who is director of content for TimetoPlayMag.com. The Doc McStuffins Get Better Check-up Center will be extremely popular, so get it early.
Advertising Supplement to The Gazette & Gazette-Star | November 2013
“There have been lots of tablets for kids, and LeapFrog really invested heavily in updating theirs for this year,” he said. “It’s a bit more expensive, but for younger kids, I think it’s definitely worth it.” Two video games to watch are “Disney Infinity” and “Skylanders Swap Force,” he said. And who said toys are just for kids? For Christmas, Byrne always picks a game that a family can play together. He suggested the Spin Master’s Boom Boom Balloon, which allows each player to take turns throwing a dice while attempting to keep a balloon from popping. The person who pops the balloon loses. “This is my favorite game of the year,” he said. “It is so classic and fun. Also, it has been a hit in more than 35 countries before finding its way here.” Be sure to order extra balloons, which are available through Spin Master. If you know an adult who is still a kid at heart, help him or her remember a favorite Christmas past. Byrne recently published a book called “Toy Time: A Look Back at the MostBeloved Toys of Decades Past” that he wrote “for the grown-up who has never seemed to grow out of his or her toys.” –CREATORS.COM–
CREATORS.COM PHOTO COURTESY OF MATTEL
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Batman continues to be fun for boys ages 3 to 8, said Vega. “The best-selling Imaginext Batcave has been fully redesigned for 2013,” she said. The set features a Bat computer, a Bat pole, a secret button to open the jail door and two turn disks—one that opens the Bat door so that Batman can ride out on the Batcycle. The set comes with Batman, Robin, a Bat flight suit, a Batwing, a Batcycle and two projectiles. Younger boys who liked the Disney movie “Planes” will have fun recreating the movie’s action with Wing Control Dusty Crophopper Radio Control Plane. The plane moves when they do—just push the button to set its propeller spinning and move it forward. Then use the two controllers—one for each wing— to tilt the wings and control its movement through mimicry. EB Brands Iron Man Flying RemoteControlled Extreme Hero is another flying toy that really takes off, said Byrne. “This is a real innovation in flying toys,” he said. “It’s a tad expensive and for outdoor use only, but we were really impressed by how easy it is to fly.” Of course, it wouldn’t be a modern holiday season if kids didn’t ask for electronic games. Byrne suggests the LeapPad Ultra tablet.
Barbie’s Dreamhouse features six rooms and many luxurious details.
November 2013 | Advertising Supplement to The Gazette & Gazette-Star
Holiday Gift Guide
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–MUSIC, CONTINUED FROM 7–
entertainment system making use of an amplifier, more versatile speakers, remotes, and USB and Wi-Fi connections. Swing arms are featherweight with diamondpointed needles, and the speed switch is often variable between the 33 1/3 to 45 to 78 rpm range. And the USB connections make downloading vinyl quality music to CDs or MP3 players easy for preserving a favorite song. If you are ready to enjoy a bit of nostalgia and want to add a turntable to your home entertainment system, do your homework first. What kind of records do you plan to play? Make sure that your preferred unit plays the speed(s) you need. Do you have an existing sound system? Read the manual to make sure that your new purchase is compatible. Are you planning to take your turntable along with you to parties or leave it in a set place? Portable units have lighter housing; oftentimes plastic, built-in speakers; and tend to be more economical. Stationary units may be built on wooden bases, which tend to stabilize better against vibrations and need to be matched up with external speakers and amplifiers. External speakers usually allow for greater sound personalization. Turntables are either belt driven or direct drive. The belt-driven ones are less expensive and the belt is usually relatively
easy to replace; that being said, the belt does sometimes need to be replaced. Belt drives are often not automatic and manual placement of the needle is necessary. The direct drive tends to be more consistent, provides better speed control and is the preferred choice for professionals. Fully automatic, the motor starts the turntable spinning and gently places the needle on the record. The noise from the motor can cause interference when digitizing the sound track. A USB turntable will connect to a computer or MP3 player and a software system will help to digitize the music to take the warm vinyl sound with you anywhere. An analog turntable does not alter the rich sound of a vinyl record, but does require a computer conversion sound card if you want to digitize your music for prosperity. In addition, the majority of analog turntables are more expensive than USB models. Whichever system you purchase, make sure that you remember to purchase good cleaning accessories to maintain both the vinyl and needle. Dust settling in the groove tracks can damage the stylus and muffle the sound of music. Don’t wipe the vinyl with your hand or a flat dust rag; you’ll risk pushing the dust further into the grooves. Electronic accessory shops sell special antistatic brush-cleaning kits. –CREATORS.COM–
–OUTDOORS, CONTINUED FROM 9–
will get a product that will last much longer and perform much better. But this is not always the case, so doing research and checking out gear review sites before purchasing can go a long way.” In regard to clothing, Conner advised, “Probably the most important thing when buying for others is knowing that person’s measurements beforehand. I would say a majority of the returns we see are because the wrong size was ordered ... Important measurements would be chest size, sleeve length, waist, inseam, torso length and foot size ... At Backcountry, we can set up orders for multiple sizes and set up free returns so that a customer can check out a variety of options.” The final tip is to get creative: Instead of buying an item, buy an experience. Leonard suggested state parks passes or national parks passes ($80). “A national parks pass gives the holder access to all of America’s national parks and monuments for a year,” he said. “State parks passes can be just as expensive, but give the holder access to lots of wild terrain closer to home. If you’re going to state parks more than two or three times a year, they’re a value.” He also suggested guided adventures, such as whitewater rafting ($100 to $200
PHOTODISC/DIGITAL VISION/THINKSTOCK
If your budget is hefty, consider the gift of a oncein-a-lifetime travel package, such as a Mount Kilimanjaro climb.
per person) or mountain climbing. And many rock-climbing gyms sell day passes if you want to give the gift of a first climbing lesson. Outdoor supply stores such as REI sell once-in-a-lifetime travel packages such as a Mount Kilimanjaro climb and safari or a cycling trip in Vietnam. However, some of these trips also come with once-in-alifetime price tags. Buying outdoor gear for a loved one shouldn’t be about getting the shiniest or most complex gadget. It should be about keeping your friends and family safe, warm and dry when outdoors. Whether you provide them with a critical accessory or the tent that keeps them out of the rain, if you use these tips, they’ll definitely be happy campers. –CREATORS.COM–
Your Complete Prince George’s County
Guide
to
Private Schools
This special section will feature information on: 4 Detailed directory on private schools. 4 The overall mission of Private Schools. 4 How to apply to private schools, plus much more!
Publishes: Thursday, January 30, 2014 Space Deadline: January 14, 2014 Ad OK Deadline: January 21, 2014 1911907
Call to Reserve Space Today!
240-473-7532
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Holiday Gift Guide
Advertising Supplement to The Gazette & Gazette-Star | November 2013
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November 2013 | Advertising Supplement to The Gazette & Gazette-Star
Holiday Gift Guide
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holiday events
The following is a sampling of activities throughout Prince George’s County. Dates and times are subject to change.
Holiday Entertainment
Oxon Hill Manor 6901 Oxon Hill Road, Oxon Hill 301-839-7782; history.pgparks.com
Fridays and Saturdays through Dec. 21; 3 and 6 p.m. Local school choirs, performance groups and children musicals National Harbor 153 Waterfront St., National Harbor 301-203-4170; nationalharbor.com
Harbor Holiday Festival Dec. 6-8; Fri., 12-6 p.m.; Sat., 10 a.m.-6 p.m.; Sun., 10 a.m.-5 p.m. $8 adult (15+) in advance, $15 at door; children free Gaylord National Resort & Convention Center 201 Waterfront St., National Harbor 301-965-4000, 800-830-3976 mdholidayshow.com
ICE! featuring ‘Twas the Night Before Christmas Daily through Jan. 5; see website for hours. Starting at $27 adults, $19 children (3-11) Gaylord National Resort & Convention Center 201 Waterfront St., National Harbor 301-965-4000; christmasonthepotomac.com
Breakfast with Sint Niklaas Dec. 7, 9 and 11 a.m. $10 child (ages 3-10 only), $7 adult, resident; $12 child, $9 adult, nonresident; registration required. Riversdale House Museum 4811 Riverdale Road, Riverdale Park 301-864-0420; history.pgparks.com
Christmas on the Potomac Daily through Jan. 5 Family-friendly events include a nightly indoor snowfall and tree-lighting show, Photos with Santa, Peeps & Company Potomac Express train rides and more. Many events are free; some require paid admission. Gaylord National Resort & Convention Center 201 Waterfront St., National Harbor 301-965-4000; christmasonthepotomac.com
Gingy’s Gingerbread Decorating Daily through Jan. 5; see website for hours. Starting at $35.95; tickets available for purchase on property Gaylord National Resort & Convention Center 201 Waterfront St., National Harbor 301-965-4000; christmasonthepotomac.com
Harbor Light Show Daily through Jan. 5; begins at sunset Shows every 30 minutes until 10 p.m. National Harbor 153 Waterfront St., National Harbor 301-203-4170; nationalharbor.com
Snowflakes Musical Marionette Show Nov. 23, 11 a.m. and 1 p.m.; workshop following the show $5, show, ages 1 and older; $3, Sparkles Snowman Puppet-Making Workshop The Bowie Center for the Performing Arts 15200 Annapolis Road, Bowie 410-733-5588 bealestreetpuppets.com
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Holiday Gift Guide
Fireworks & Tree Lighting PHOTO COURTESY OF NATIONAL HARBOR
Madagascar Crack-A-Lackin’ Cook-In Nov. 23-24, 30; Dec. 1, 7-8, 14-15, 21-29; Jan. 4-5; Breakfast available 8–11 a.m. $29.95 adults (12+); $19.95 children (2-11); no reservations accepted, first-come first-served. Gaylord National Resort & Convention Center 201 Waterfront St., National Harbor 301-965-4000; christmasonthepotomac.com
National Harbor Tree Lighting & Fireworks Nov. 29; 5–9 p.m. strolling holiday characters, 7 p.m. orchestra, 8 p.m. tree lighting and fireworks National Harbor 137 National Plaza, National Harbor 301-203-4170; nationalharbor.com
14th Annual Gingerbread House Contest and Show
Nov. 29-Dec. 1, Dec. 6-8, 13-15; 12-5 p.m. $1 Darnall’s Chance House Museum 14800 Governor Oden Bowie Drive, Upper Marlboro 301-952-8010; history.pgparks.com
27th Annual Winter Festival of Lights Nightly Nov. 29-Jan. 1; 5-9:30 p.m. $5 cars or minivans; $15 minibuses and limos; $25 buses; $10 multi-visit pass; free on Dec. 25; cash only Watkins Regional Park 301 Watkins Park Drive, Upper Marlboro 301-699-2456 pgparks.com/Festival_of_Lights.htm
Sincerely Santa Dec. 2-14, 9 a.m.-9 p.m. Free; ages 3-5 Harmony Hall Regional Center 10701 Livingston Road, Fort Washington 301-203-6040; pgparks.com
Senior Winter Wonderland Social Dec. 3, 12-2 p.m. $5 residents, $6 nonresidents Prince George’s Plaza Community Center 6600 Adelphi Road, Hyattsville 301-864-1611; pgparks.com
Holiday Tea at the Manor Dec. 3, 1-3 p.m. $25
Holiday Arts & Crafts Dec. 7, 11 a.m.-1 p.m. $5 resident, $6 nonresident Potomac Landing Community Center Park 12500 Fort Washington Road, Fort Washington 301-292-9191; pgparks.com
Santa Fly-In Dec. 7, 12-4 p.m. Museum admission: $4 adults, $3 seniors, $2 children, free for children under 2 College Park Aviation Museum 1985 Corporal Frank Scott Drive, College Park 301-864-6029 collegeparkaviationmuseum.com
Kiddie Cabaret Dec. 7, 2-4 p.m. $5 resident, $6 nonresident; ages 8-12 Hillcrest Heights Community Center 2300 Oxon Run Drive, Temple Hills 301-505-0896; pgparks.com
Winter’s Eve and Green Crafter Fair Dec. 7, 4-7 p.m. $2 or canned food donation National Colonial Farm 3400 Bryan Point Road, Accokeek 301-283-2113; accokeekfoundation.org
Advertising Supplement to The Gazette & Gazette-Star | November 2013
Divas Deck the Halls
Annual Holiday Open House
Dec. 7, 5 p.m.
Dec. 8, 1-4 p.m.
$20
Free Montpelier Arts Center 9652 Muirkirk Road, Laurel 301-377-7800; arts.pgparks.com
Montpelier Arts Center 9652 Muirkirk Road, Laurel 301-377-7800; arts.pgparks.com
Holiday Doo Wop starring The Orioles and The Clovers Dec. 7, 8 p.m.
Holiday Candlelight Tours
Brunch with Santa Dec. 8, 15 and 22; 11 a.m.-2 p.m. $56 adults, $28 children (3-11), free children 2 and under; reservations recommended. Gaylord National Resort & Convention Center 201 Waterfront St., National Harbor 301-965-4000; christmasonthepotomac.com
$20 Publick Playhouse 5445 Landover Road, Cheverly 301-277-1710; arts.pgparks.com
Dec. 7, 8 p.m.-12 a.m. $10 in advance, $15 at the door; 18 and up Hillcrest Heights Community Center 2300 Oxon Run Drive, Temple Hills 301-505-0896; pgparks.com
The Nutcracker
Dec. 13-15, 1 p.m.
Dec. 9, 10:15 a.m. and 12 p.m.
$29, $25 Friends of Montpelier members; reservations required. Montpelier Mansion/Historic Site 9650 Muirkirk Road, Laurel 301-377-7817; history.pgparks.com
$5 Publick Playhouse 5445 Landover Road, Cheverly 301-277-1710; arts.pgparks.com
Holiday Ornament Emporium
Dec. 7, 7 p.m.; Dec. 8, 3 p.m.
Dec. 9-23, closed Wed.; 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Montpelier Mansion/Historic Site 9650 Muirkirk Road, Laurel 301-377-7817; history.pgparks.com
$35 adult, $28 seniors, $20 students, $15 children The Bowie Center for the Performing Arts 15200 Annapolis Road, Bowie 410-224-5644; balletmaryland.org
Season’s Greetings
Gourmet Holiday Cake Pop Experience
Dec. 10, 10:15 a.m. and 12 p.m.
Dec. 7-8, 14-15, 21-24, 26-30; breakfast 8:30-10 a.m.; Cake Pop Experience, 10 a.m.12:30 p.m. $49 adult, $39 children (3-11), free children 2 and under; reservations recommended. Gaylord National Resort & Convention Center 201 Waterfront St., National Harbor 301-965-4000; christmasonthepotomac.com
Holiday Hayrides Dec. 7-8, 14-15, 21-22, 28-29; 7 p.m. $5; reservations required. Old Maryland Farm 301 Watkins Park Drive, Upper Marlboro 301-218-6770; pgparks.com
Dec. 13-14, 6-9 p.m.; last tour 8:30 p.m. Holiday craft for children $3 adults, $1 children, free children 5 and under; free for Girl Scouts Dec. 13 and Boy Scouts Dec. 14 Montpelier Mansion/Historic Site 9650 Muirkirk Road, Laurel 301-377-7817; history.pgparks.com
Holiday Tea
‘Twas the Night Before Christmas
Hand/Line Dance Social
$6; tickets available at Bowie Senior Center, 14900 Health Center Drive, Bowie The Bowie Center for the Performing Arts 15200 Annapolis Road, Bowie 301-809-2300; cityofbowie.org
Breakfast with Santa
Breakfast with Santa Dec. 14, 10 a.m.-12 p.m. Free; all ages College Park Community Center 5051 Pierce Ave., College Park 301-441-2647; pgparks.com
Pictures with Santa Dec. 14, 11 a.m. Free Rollingcrest-Chillum Community Center 6120 Sargent Road, Chillum 301-853-2005; pgparks.com
Breakfast with Santa Dec. 14, 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Free Prince George’s Plaza Community Center 6600 Adelphi Road, Hyattsville 301-864-1611; pgparks.com
Santa’s Little Helper’s Workshop
Dec. 14, 10 a.m.-12 p.m.
Dec. 14, 12-3 p.m.
$10 adult, $8 child (3-12), free 2 and under; after Dec. 6, $12 adult, $10 child; reservations required. Baden Community Center 13601 Baden-Westwood Road, Brandywine 301-888-1500; pgparks.com
$7 child, $10 adult; registration suggested. Prince George’s Sports & Learning Complex 8001 Sheriff Road, Landover 301-583-2582; pgparks.com –CONTINUED ON 18–
$5 Publick Playhouse 5445 Landover Road, Cheverly 301-277-1710; arts.pgparks.com
Holiday Wine Glass Decorating Dec. 10, 7-9 p.m. $8 resident, $10 nonresident Prince George’s Plaza Community Center 6600 Adelphi Road, Hyattsville 301-864-1611; pgparks.com
Bowie Senior Chorale’s A Holiday Celebration Dec. 13, 7:30 p.m.
Gallery Africa “where fashion is art”
We offer great handcrafted jewelry and art • 2014 caendars & gift items • Ethnic wear for everyday & holiday • African clothing for the entire family.
2 convenient locations:
The Centre at Forestville Woodmore Towne Centre 3217 Donnell Drive Forestville, MD 20747 301-736-8107
2830 Campus Way North, Unit 616 Lanham, MD 20706 301-773-8661
November 2013 | Advertising Supplement to The Gazette & Gazette-Star
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Shop online at
www.galleryafrica.com
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‘Tis the Season Dec. 14, 12-4 p.m. Included with regular tour admission: $3 adults, $2 seniors, $1 children (5-18), free 4 and under Surratt House Museum 9118 Brandywine Road, Clinton 301-868-1121; history.pgparks.com
Movies at Montpelier: The Year Without A Santa Claus Dec. 14, 1 p.m. Free; includes snacks and soft drinks Montpelier Arts Center 9652 Muirkirk Road, Laurel 301-377-7800; arts.pgparks.com
Sugar & Ice Holiday Social Dec. 14, 2-6 p.m. $3 Upper Marlboro Community Center 5400 Marlboro Race Track Road, Upper Marlboro 301-627-2828; pgparks.com
Holiday Trains and Planes Dec. 14-21, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Museum admission: $4 adults, $3 seniors, $2 children, free children 2 and under
College Park Aviation Museum 1985 Corporal Frank Scott Drive, College Park 301-864-6029 collegeparkaviationmuseum.com
Kwanzaa with Queen Nur Dec. 17, 10:15 a.m. and 12 p.m. $5 Publick Playhouse 5445 Landover Road, Cheverly 301-277-1710 arts.pgparks.com
Breakfast with Santa Dec. 21, 10 a.m.-12 p.m. $10 adult, $8 child (6-12), free 5 and under Stephen Decatur Community Center 8200 Pinewood Drive, Clinton 301-297-4648 pgparks.com
Hansel & Gretel Tea Party Dec. 21, 2 p.m. $15 resident; $18 nonresident; ages 5 and up; reservations required. Darnall’s Chance House Museum 14800 Governor Oden Bowie Drive, Upper Marlboro 301-952-8010 history.pgparks.com
“A Touch of Class Caterers, LLC” We cater to the STAR in you!
Holiday Hand Bell Concert Welcome Christmas
5051 Pierce Ave., College Park 301-441-2647; pgparks.com
Dec. 21, 2 p.m. $5 The Bowie Center for the Performing Arts 15200 Annapolis Road, Bowie 301-805-6880 colonialringers.com
28th Annual Waterskiing Santa Dec. 24, 12:30 p.m. National Harbor 137 National Plaza, National Harbor 301-203-4170; waterskiingsanta.com
Holiday Concert & Variety Show
Kwanzaa Festival
Dec. 21, 7-9 p.m.
Dec. 27, 5-10 p.m.
$5 resident; $6 nonresident Potomac Landing Community Center Park 12500 Fort Washington Road, Fort Washington 301-292-9191; pgparks.com
Free Tucker Road Community Center 1771 Tucker Road, Fort Washington 301-248-4404
Kwanzaa Celebration
Gingerbread House Decorating
Dec. 27, 7 p.m. Free; all ages Rollingcrest-Chillum Community Center 6120 Sargent Road, Chillum 301-853-2005; pgparks.com
Dec. 21, 7-10 p.m. $2 residents, $3 nonresidents; ages 10-17 Prince George’s Plaza Community Center 6600 Adelphi Road, Hyattsville 301-864-1611; pgparks.com
The Calverts by Candlelight Dec. 28, 6 p.m.
Holiday Movie Night
$5 adults, free 12 and under Riversdale House Museum 4811 Riverdale Road, Riverdale Park 301-864-0420; history.pgparks.com
Dec. 21, 7-10 p.m. Free; ages 10-17 College Park Community Center
Your Complete Prince George’s County
Guide Private Schools to
This special section will feature information on: 4 Detailed directory on private schools. 4 The overall mission of Private Schools.
The Holiday time once again is here, full of love, joy and cheer. Smiles, Laughter and stories sharing. Giving hugging, loving and caring. Planning an entertaining menu and an evening with family and friends can be quite overwhelming. Spend your holidays enjoying the moment. No matter what you’re planning, we will cater to the Star in you! We offer NO PORK MENUS…… We cater for all occasions: *Weddings/Birthday/Baby Shower/Church/Repast* We’re in business to serve you!
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info@we-cater-2u.com www.we-cater-2u.com (301) 449-2082 Office
4 How to apply to private schools, plus much more!
Publishes: Thursday, January 30, 2014 Space Deadline: January 14, 2014 Ad OK Deadline: January 21, 2014
Call to Reserve Space Today!
240-473-7532
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Advertising Supplement to The Gazette & Gazette-Star | November 2013
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November 2013 | Advertising Supplement to The Gazette & Gazette-Star
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Holiday Gift Guide
Advertising Supplement to The Gazette & Gazette-Star | November 2013