Gift & Party Guide
a blank slate media / litmor publications special section december 14, 2018
36 HOLIDAY GIFT & PARTY GUIDE • Blank Slate Media Newspapers, Friday, December 14, 2018
SATURDAY, DEC.15TH • 11AM-NOON
Last-minute holiday shopping tips
Last Chance Sale! H
oliday shopping season typically begins the day after Thanksgiving and extends all the way to Christmas Eve. While that’s a considerable amount of time for shoppers to find gifts for everyone on their shopping list, many people will still find themselves putting holiday shopping off until the last minute. In certain ways, last-minute holiday shopping is easier than ever. Thanks to online retailers who can ship products overnight, men and women who delay their holiday shopping have more options at their disposal than they did before the arrival of the Internet. And unlike the days of yore when the best deals were largely exclusive to Black Friday, some shoppers find that competition between online retailers and traditional brick-and-mortar stores is so great that deals can be found regardless of when they begin shopping. But while waiting until the last minute to begin holiday shopping may not be as risky as it used to be, shoppers may still benefit by sticking to certain strategies so they can find the perfect gifts without breaking the bank. Stay within your budget. Even last-minute shoppers have holiday shopping budgets. But it can be
EVENT RULES: Anyone in line between 11am - NOON on Saturday, December 15th is guaranteed admittance to this sale and may shop as long as needed!
JEWELERS SERVING ALL OF LONG ISLAND
1030 Willis Ave. • Albertson, NY 11507 • 516.484.6444 • solomonsjewelers.com Excludes loose diamonds. Sale is on select in-stock displayed merchandise only. Not valid on prior sales, custom work or custom orders, repairs, layaways, or special orders. Cash or credit card only. Cannot be combined with any other offers. All Sales Final. See store for details.
harder for last-minute shoppers to stick to their budgets because they have less time to comparison shop and hunt for deals. As the holiday shopping season winds down, resist the temptation to go over budget. If a gift you had in mind is available but more than you can spend, look for something else. Overspending on holiday shopping in December is a recipe for debt in January, and no shopper wants to begin the new year weighed down by consumer debt. Shop local. National chains and big box retailers are renowned for rolling out great deals during the holiday season, but such stores may have very limited or unimpressive inventory left by the time last-minute shoppers begin shopping. Local retailers are often incapable of slashing prices as significantly as their larger competitors, and that may mean they have more extensive inventories available throughout the holiday shopping season. In addition, shoppers who stick with local retailers won’t have to pay shipping costs to ensure items arrive on time. Shop during off-peak hours. Shopping during off-peak hours can help last-minute shoppers make efficient use of the limited time they have to buy gifts for their loved ones. Visit stores early in the morning or late at night, or schedule a midweek afternoon shopping trip so you aren’t spending what little time you have left waiting on lines or hunting for parking. Give something less traditional. Holiday gifts need not come from stores. Rather than spending their time shopping for gifts for loved ones who seemingly have it all, lastminute shoppers can give the gift of a donation in their loved one’s name. Last-minute shoppers who want to give something more tangible can create a homemade gift that’s both unique and heartfelt. If your DIY skills are lacking, give a loved one the gift of a night out on the town at your expense. Shoppers who wait until the end of the holiday shopping season to begin their searches for holiday gifts can still find great gifts without going broke.
Blank Slate Media Newspapers, Friday, December 14, 2018 • HOLIDAY GIFT & PARTY GUIDE
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38 HOLIDAY GIFT & PARTY GUIDE • Blank Slate Media Newspapers, Friday, December 14, 2018
Get gifts there on time T
hanks to families being more spread out than ever before, today’s holiday shoppers must figure out ways to get holiday gifts to their destination on time. The holiday season tends to be the busiest time of year for many delivery services. The following tips should help shoppers ensure their loved ones’ gifts arrive on time. Ship directly. Adobe Analytics reported that online shopping hit a record high of $108.2 billion in the 2017 holiday shopping season, and all indicators suggest online shopping will only increase in the years to come. Holiday shoppers who want to ensure their loved ones will receive their gifts on time can rely on online shopping. When checking out, have gifts shipped directly to loved ones’ homes. Many online retailers will even wrap gifts for a nominal fee. Research shipping options. In 2018, Christmas falls on a Tuesday. Shoppers who plan to rely on two-day or overnight shipping should keep that in mind. Some delivery services may be open throughout the weekend before Christmas, while others may only be open on Saturday. Lastminute shoppers, whether they’re shopping online or in-person, should confirm their shipping options well in advance of Christmas. Because Christmas is on a Tuesday this year, getting gifts to their
destination on time may require shoppers to purchase and ship them earlier than they otherwise might. Purchase package insurance. Consumer Reports notes that UPS and FedEx shipments automatically come with declared-value coverage of up to $100. (Note: Declared value is the carrier’s maximum liability.) Purchasing additional insurance can ease shoppers’ concerns about lost or stolen packages. Just be sure to keep all invoices and receipts in case claims must be filed. Shoppers also should ask for tracking numbers on all packages so they can confirm when packages are delivered. Properly secure the package. Many delivery services now have off-site dropoff boxes that can make it easy to send gifts. This is a convenient service, but shoppers who use them won’t be able to have a company employee provide inperson confirmation that their packages are secured to company standards. Poorly packaged items may never be shipped. Visit the shipping company’s website for packaging guidelines, and include a business card and duplicate label inside the package just in case it is damaged after being dropped off.
Celebrate The Holidays and New YearWith Us at Hibachi Sushi Ya!! PARTY ROOM AVAILABLE FOR YOUR SPECIAL EVENT! Seating for over 150 guests!
Birthdays, Anniversaries, Bridal & Baby Showers & Any Special Event
Come in and enjoy our
ALL YOU CAN EAT (served on Sundays only)
• Adults…$25.95 • Children…$15.95 (Under 4 feet)
• • • •
BAR SU SHI BAR H IB AC HI C AT E RI NG F U SI ON CU IS IN E
FREE DELIVERY
Call ahead & have your order ready for pick-up!
HIBACHI & SUSHI YA RESTAURANT 2311 Jericho Turnpike, New Hyde Park, NY 11040 Tel: 516-741-2288 / 516-741-2298 • Fax: 516-741-2988 www.hibachisushiya.com
15% OFF ENTIRE CHECK (Dine-In and Take-Out) With Coupon - Expires 12/31/18 Max. 8 People or $40 Discount Cannot be combined w/any other offer. Not incl. holidays. New Hyde Park location only.
Blank Slate Media Newspapers, Friday, December 14, 2018 • HOLIDAY GIFT & PARTY GUIDE
39
Homecooked Goodness Made Fresh Daily!
Appetizers
Party Favorites - served as a 3 Ft.Hero or
Chicken Entrées
Sandwich Platter…your choice
Cold Antipasta Platter fresh mozzarella, asiago, provolone, pepperoni, Chicken Parmigiana hand breaded chicken cutlet with marinara sauce roasted red peppers, sweet sopressata, sundried tomatoes, marinated artichokes & mixed olives
$50/$95
and topped with mozzarella
$45/$85 Chicken Francese dipped in flour and egg and sauteed in Sliced Tomatoes,Roasted Red Peppers, Fresh white wine, lemon and butter $50/$95 $45/$85 Chicken Marsala tender chicken sauteed in marsala wine Mozzarella & Basil $50/$95 Boneless Buffalo Chicken Strips breaded boneless chicken strips and fresh mushrooms lightly coated with our signature buffalo sauce and served Chicken Picatta tender chicken with capers in a lemon $45/$85
with a side of blue cheese dressing
Boneless Asian Sweet Ginger Chicken Strips breaded boneless chicken strips lightly coated with our bold & sweet ginger sauce
Chicken Scarpariella tender chunks of boneless white chicken $50/$95
sauteed in a brown sauce w/mushrooms, onions, potatoes & sausage
$45/$85
Chicken Toscano chicken breast topped with prosciutto, spinach
$45/$85
Chicken Sorrentino boneless chicken topped with eggplant
Buffalo Wings fried chicken wings tossed in a hot &
$50/$95
and melted mozzarella, served with a tasty brown sauce
tangy buffalo sauce served with blue cheese
Asian Sesame Wings
$50/$95
prosciutto & melted mozzarella, sauteed in a light tomato sauce
$45/$85
fried chicken wings in our bold & sweet ginger sauce
Grilled Vegetables yellow squash, carrots, zucchini and broccoli lightly coated with olive oil & seasonings then grilled to perfection
$45/$85
Shrimp Cocktail Platter delicious jumbo wild shrimp
House Garden Salad with shredded carrots, cucumbers & tomatoes in our house balsamic vinegarette Capresse Salad with romaine, fresh mozzarella, and sundried tomatoes in a balsamic vinegarette
$60/$115
fresh mushrooms
$30/$55
Veal Toscano tender veal topped with prosciutto, spinach &
$60/$115
and a hint of lemon melted mozzarella served in a tasty brown sauce
$35/$65
(Add Chicken $45-$85)
Gorgonzola Salad romaine, crumbled gorgonzola, walnuts, and
Pasta Entrées Fussilli Primavera Cavatelli with broccoli & sundried tomatoes Rigatoni Filetto Di Pomodoro Penne Paolo sauteed fresh broccoli & chicken w/marinara sauce Rigatoni ala Creo rigatoni, broccoli rabe, sausage &
$40/$75 $40/$75 $40/$75 $45/$85
sundried tomatoes sauteed in garlic & oil
$45/$85 $45/$85
Tortellini w/Peas & Prosciutto Alfredo Lobster Ravioli in a cream sauce with dijon mustard and
$50/$95 $50/$95
Pasta Al Forno
mozzarella sauteed in a light tomato sauce
Grilled Chicken & Broccoli Rabe grilled chicken with sauteed
$60/$115
Other Entrées
Eggplant breaded fried eggplant with fire roasted red peppers & asiago $55.50
cheese topped with our homemade balsamic vinaigrette
Cold Pasta Salads Cold Cheese Raviolette Salad bite size cheese ravioli, roasted red peppers, onions, spinach & sundried tomatoes $40/$75 gently tossed in a balsamic vinaigrette dressing Tri-Color Cheese Tortellini Salad Tri-color cheese tortellini, pepperoni, diced red onion, black olives, artichoke hearts and $40/$75 fresh mozzarella tossed in a balsamic vinaigrette dressing celery, peppers, tomatoes, red onion grated parmesan cheese with a $40/$75 red wine vinaigrette dressing Italian Cheese Pasta Salad Corkscrew pasta with grilled chicken, cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, black olives, roasted red peppers, red onion, $50/$95 and feta cheese in an Italian vinaigrette dressing
Kids Favorites
Chicken Fingers tender juicy fried chicken strips served with a side of $40/$75
honey mustard dressing
Macaroni & Cheese cavatappi pasta in our own delicious $45/$75
delicious creamy four cheese blend
$40/$75
in homemade marinara sauce
Crispy Seasoned French Fries
onions and green and red peppers
$45/$85
Herb Roasted Potatoes bite size roasted red and white
$45/$85
Broccoli Rabe Sauté broccoli rabe sauteed with
Eggplant Rollatini eggplant stuffed with whole milk ricotta
potatoes with herbs
Eggplant Parmigiana thin layers of eggplant, marinara sauce $45/$85
garlic and olive oil
$25/$45 $35/$65
Vegetable Medley Sauté fresh broccoli, cauliflower, yellow squash, zucchini and carrots sauteed with garlic and olive oil
Seafood
$50/$95 $25/$45
Vegetables
Sausage & Peppers oven roasted sausage with caramelized
grated romano cheese, topped with fresh mozzarella
$55.50
with bacon & american cheese served with thousand island dressing
Bacon Mac & Cheese bacon mixed with cavatappi pasta in our own
Meatballs Marinara large meatballs
then baked in a marinara sauce
$55.50
broccoli rabe, fresh mozzarella, and balsamic vinaigrette
Chicken Cutlet & Bacon breaded chicken cutlet topped
creamy four cheese blend
$35/$65
Peas, Mushrooms & Artichokes sauteed onions, peas, sliced
Shrimp Parmigiana hand breaded shrimp with homemade marinara and topped with mozzarella
$40/$75 $45/$85 $40/$75 $45/$85 $45/$85 $45/$85 $40/$75 $40/$75
$60/$115
Veal Sorrentino tender veal topped with eggplant, prosciutto & melted
$35/$65
dried cranberries in a balsamic vinaigrette
Baked Ziti Baked Ziti ala Bolognese Baked Cheese Lasagna Baked Meat Lasagna Baked Vegetable Lasagna Baked Spinach Lasagna Manicotti w/Marinara Sauce Stuffed Shells w/Vodka Sauce
in marsala wine and
Veal Picatta Tender veal with capers in a white wine sauce
breaded chicken cutlets with fire roasted red peppers, & fresh mozzarella topped with our homemade balsamic vinaigrette $55.50
Garden Vegetable Salad Fusilli pasta with carrots, $60/$115
butter and white wine sauce
$30/$55
Caesar Salad romaine, fresh parmesan, seasoned croutons &
chopped shrimp
$60/$115
and mozzarella
Veal Marsala tender veal sauteed
Salads
Rigatoni ala Vodka w/shrimp
Veal Entrées Veal Parmigiana hand breaded veal cutlet with homemade marinara Veal Francese tender braised veal cooked in a lemon,
$50/$95
cooked until tender served with our zesty cocktail sauce
creamy caesar dressing
$50/$95
butter and white wine sauce
Chicken Cutlet, Roasted Peppers & Mozzarella
$60/$115
mushrooms & artichoke hearts w/garlic and olive oil
$40/$65
Shrimp Francese dipped in flour and egg and sauteed in white wine, lemon and butter
$60/$115
Shrimp Oreganata jumbo dippped in flour shrimp baked with a combination fresh breadcrumbs, garlic, butter and seasonings
$60/$115
Shrimp & Calamari Fra Diavolo Shrimp and calamari over linguine in a spicy marinara sauce
$65/$125
Trays Serve Approx. Half (8-10) Full (15-20)
Our Specialty Store is filled with a daily variety of: Fresh Pastas, Specialty Ravioli, Manicotti, Stuffed Shells, Tortellini & Delicious Prepared Foods
FOR YOUR CONVENIENCE OPEN SUN. 12/23 9-4. OPEN CHRISTMAS EVE 9am-4pm. ALL CATERING ORDERS MUST BE PICKED UP BY 3:30pm CHRISTMAS EVE. 12 South Denton Ave., New Hyde Park, NY 11040 tel: 516-741-7287 fax: 516-741-5289 www.nyravioli.com Open: Mon.-Fri. 9am-6pm, Sat. 9am-5pm
40 HOLIDAY GIFT & PARTY GUIDE • Blank Slate Media Newspapers, Friday, December 14, 2018
Steps to take before giving pets as gifts some people may be allergic to certain animals or simply not have the time or energy to devote to pet ownership. No one wants to return an animal to a kennel, and forcing a loved to take on the unwanted responsibility of pet ownership does not make much of a gift.
I
t’s not uncommon for families to welcome a new pet into their homes during the holiday season. Parents may give their children their first pet during the holidays, but those who choose to give a pet to someone outside their immediate family or to someone they don’t live with should consider the following advice before going through with that decision.
Consult the eventual recipient first The element of surprise is part of what makes the holiday season of giving so special, and few things may inspire more enthusiastic responses than new pets under the tree. But however appealing you may find such reactions, it’s still best to first consult the intended recipient before buying or adopting the pet. Pets make wonderful additions to a home, but
Let the recipient choose the pet Aunts or uncles may think a cute puppy is an ideal holiday gift for their nieces and nephews, but it’s best to let those youngsters’ parents choose the pet rather than going it alone. Once mom and dad have given you the greenlight to gift their kids a pet, let them decide which type of pet will become the newest member of their households. Parents may not feel their children are ready to handle the significant responsibility of dog ownership, and they may prefer their kids first receive a more low-maintenance pet, such as a fish. Pay for everything Pets are expensive, even those that are adopted from nearby shelters. Cats and dogs adopted from local shelters or even animals bought directly from breeders will need some immediate
medical care, including shots and initial examinations at the veterinarian’s office, as well as food, dishes, leashes (if giving a dog), and bedding. When giving pets as a gift, men and women should fit the bill for these additional expenses, which can be significant. Recipients may not be able to afford these additional expenses, especially during the holiday season, nor did they ask to take on such a financial burden. So men and women giving pets as gifts should be capable of handling the oft-overlooked costs of adopting or buying a new pet. Be willing to take the pet Some households simply are not a good match for pets. Men and women looking to give pets as holiday gifts should be willing to take the pet into their own homes if things are not working out with the recipient. This does not mean gift-givers have to keep the pet forever, but they should be willing to temporarily care for the animal until it finds a new home. Pets sometimes make wonderful gifts, but men and women who are considering giving pets as gifts this holiday season should not approach such gestures lightly.
MINEOLA BICYCLE FITNESS & MOWER
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With ad only. Expires 12/24/18. Shop Early for Best Selection. Excludes Sale Bikes. Not to be Combined with Any Other Offer.
Cell Phone Holders/ Quad Lock
Great Gift Idea!
OUR SNOWBLOWER PRE-SEASON SALE HAS BEEN EXTENDED! TORO® POWER CLEAR 518 ZE
TORO® POWER CLEAR 721 E
Model 38473 • Powered by a Toro® Premium 99cc OHV 4-cycle with Electric Start, it’s ideal for concrete and asphalt surfaces that can park up to 4+ cars • 18” Clearing Width, 12” intake height, Up to 25’ Throw Distance • Power Curve Technology - curved rotor and inverted funnel housing efficiently remove snow while reducing clogging • Put the snow exactly where you want it with the Locking Zip Deflector
Model 38742 • Powered by a Toro Premium 212cc OHV 4-cycle, it’s ideal for concrete and asphalt surfaces that can park up to 4+ cars • 21” Clearing Width, 12.5” intake height, Up to 35’ Throw Distance • Power Curve Technology - curved rotor and inverted funnel housing efficiently remove snow while reducing clogging
Reg. 469.99 SALE 429.99
TORO® POWER MAX 824 OE Model 37798 • Powered by a Toro Premium 252cc OHV 4-cycle, it’s ideal for concrete, asphalt or gravel surfaces that can park up to 4 - 10 cars • 24” Clearing Width, 20” intake height, Up to 45’ Throw Distance • Steel Chute - 100% steel chute construction • Anti-Clogging System (ACS) - Reduces clogging and maximizes impeller speed and snow velocity
Reg. 949.99 SALE ’ 849.99
Family Owned & Operated Since 1935
475 Jericho Turnpike, Mineola 2 Blocks East of Herricks Road
mineolabicycle.com
Gift Cards
Reg. 659.99 SALE 599.99
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TORO POWER MAX 826 OXE Model 37799 • Powered by a Toro Premium 252cc OHV 4-cycle, it’s ideal for concrete, asphalt or gravel surfaces that can park up to 4 - 10 cars and 6 - 12” (15-31 cm) of snow at a time • 26” Clearing Width, 20” intake height, Up to 45’ (13.5 m) Throw Distance • Steel Chute - 100% steel chute construction • Automatic steering - allows for smooth, tight turning without pulling or strain
Reg. 1149.99 SALE 1049.99
ICE MELT Special pricing on pallets
516-742-5253
Gifts for Everyone on Your List • Tricycles • Skateboards • Baby Seat (for Bike) • Child Trailer (for Bike) • Companion Carriers (for Bike) • Bike Bags & Baskets • Bike Clothing & Footwear • Comfort Seats • Helmets • Toolkits (for Bike) • Bike Computers • Air Pumps • Car/Cargo Racks • Snowthrowers • Line Trimmers • Chain Saws • Backpack Blower • Generators • Treadmill • Recumbent Bikes • and Much More!
HOLIDAY HOURS:
•M, Tu, Th, F 8-7 • W 8-6 • Sat. 9-5 • Sun. 11-4
Blank Slate Media Newspapers, Friday, December 14, 2018 • HOLIDAY GIFT & PARTY GUIDE
41
42 HOLIDAY GIFT & PARTY GUIDE • Blank Slate Media Newspapers, Friday, December 14, 2018
Great gifts for food fanatics F
ood plays a big role come the holiday season, when friends and family tend to gather around the dinner table to share good meals and catch up on the year’s happenings. But while food plays an integral role at holiday gatherings, food also makes a great gift for that friend or family member on your holiday list who loves to savor a good meal no matter the time of year. Thanks in part to celebrity chefs and television shows that teach viewers how to make gourmet meals at home, it’s now easier than ever before for food lovers to expand their culinary horizons. Gifting such food fanatics can be fun and may even inspire a love of unique cuisine in holiday shoppers, especially those who consider the following gift ideas. Cooking kit: Ingredients and other essential elements of good meals were once taken for granted. But more and more foodies are now creating their own foods from scratch. Bacon fans may fall in love with a kit that helps them cure and smoke their own bacon, while those
who love fresh, homemade bread may appreciate a bread-making kit that includes our, a pan, some recipes, and other items necessary to make the perfect homemade loaf of bread. Cooking kit options are vast so ďŹ nd a food your loved one can’t go without and purchase the appropriate kit. Gardening tools: While the holiday season might not seem like the ideal time to buy your favorite foodie some gardening tools, such items make the perfect gift for your loved one who wants to grow his or her own fruits and vegetables. Locally grown produce has become increasingly popular among foodies focused on eco-conscious cooking practices, and it does not get much more local than home cooks’ own backyards. Cutlery set: Though it’s easy to overlook, cutlery goes a long way toward making home cooks’ jobs easier. The right cutlery set, which may include one or two chef’s knives, a vegetable knife, a santoku knife, a bread knife, and other knives home cooks will appreciate, can make preparing a meal easier and
*LIW &HUWLÂźFDWH 6DOH
Join Us Before or After Any Islander Game at the Colliseum and Present Your Ticket to Your Waiter & Recieve
! Available ONLY Mon. Dec. 17 - Mon. Dec. 24 CASH ONLY
Includes Coffee • Tea • Soda Mixed Green Salad/Caesar Salad Antipasto/Tomato & Mozzarella Assorted Pinwheels One Large Calzone per Table with side of sauce Unlimited Pizza with Toppings
$24.00 Add a Pasta Course
$26.00 PER PERSON Add a Chicken / Eggplant EntreĂŠ
$32.00 PER PERSON Open Bar (3) Hours vs. Bar Tab
Add $20.00 PER PERSON CAKES MAY BE PROVIDED AT AN ADDITIONAL COST YOU MAY BRING YOUR OWN
All Gratuity on Party Packages Must Be Paid in Cash
15% OFF TOTAL BILL
COAL BRICK-OVEN PIZZERIA
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PARTY PACKAGE
more efďŹ cient than cooking without a set. High-end cutlery sets can cost several hundred dollars, but shoppers on more limited budgets can still ďŹ nd quality cutlery sets for less money. Food getaway: Many foodies love to travel so they can experience cuisines popular overseas or in different regions of the country. Men and women whose spouses love food can plan a food-themed getaway weekend to a locale that specializes in a type of food their signiďŹ cant others enjoy or have always wanted to try. For example, men and women who love lobster may enjoy a trip to Maine’s annual Lobster Festival, while those who can’t get enough barbecue may appreciate a trip to one of the country’s more notable barbecue spots, such as Memphis, Kansas City, North Carolina or Texas. Food-themed gifts make the perfect holiday present for food fanatics, and shoppers have an endless array of options to satisfy their favorite foodies’ appetites.
*Offer Good game day only
We Delivers through UberEATS & Door Dash
CATERING MENU 18� SALAD SELECTIONS
APPETIZER SELECTIONS ANTIPASTO
$70
Homemade mozzarella, oven roasted sweet red peppers, genoa salami, sicilian olives
ASSORTED BAKED PINWHEELS $60 Variety of spinach, pepperoni, buffalo chicken and sausage and bacon rolls, served with a side of sauce
BRUSCHETTA
$60
Seasoned chopped tomatoes, topped with a parmesan dusting served on crustini bread
TOMATO MOZZARELLA
$70
Large slices of tomato and fresh mozzarella with a basil pesto drizzle over a bed of greens
VEGETABLE PLATTER
$55
Assorted vegetables served with a blue cheese dip
18� DESSERT PLATTER Combination of Jr. Cheese Cake, Cannoli, Chocolate Decadence and Rice Pudding $60 Grimaldi’s Cannoli Platters (15 cannolis) $45
House $70 Caesar $60 Chopped $70 Portobello $70 Mediterranean $70 Add Fresh Mozzarella $10 Add Grilled Chicken $12 Add Salami $10
ENTREÉ SELECTIONS Chicken Parmigiana Chicken & Vegetables Chicken Marsala Sausage & Peppers Eggplant Parmigiana Eggplant Rollatini Penne Primavera Penne Ala Vodka Penne Bolognese Linguini white or red Clam Sauce
Half $50 $50 $55 $45 $40 $45 $40 $40 $45
Full $80 $80 $90 $75 $70 $80 $65 $55 $75
$45
$75
BOOK YOUR HOLIDAY CATERING ORDERS SOON! VISA, MASTERCARD, AMERICAN EXPRESS CARD ACCEPTED
(516) 294-6565 • 980 Franklin Avenue, Garden City • www.grimaldisgardencity.com
Blank Slate Media Newspapers, Friday, December 14, 2018 • HOLIDAY GIFT & PARTY GUIDE
How to make holiday shopping excursions special
43
OF MINEOLA
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Large Selection of Fur Accessories
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s they fulfill the social obligations of the holiday season, many people find themselves spending less time at home. Consumer Reports notes that individuals spend a great deal of time shopping for gifts come the holiday season. Americans engage in 15 hours of shopping on average, with women spending twice as long as their male counterparts (20 hours versus 10). In addition, the average person devotes 10 or more hours to wrapping and returning gifts. Holiday shopping can monopolize people’s time away from home during the months of November and December, and some shoppers wonder how they become so disconnected from other activities, including family time, that they cherish throughout the rest of the year. One way to tackle holiday shopping without sacrificing time with family and friends is to make holiday shopping a social event. Invite friends or family along. Recreate the days of your youth when it was fun to meet friends at the mall and scour the shops. Plan a meeting location and have an itinerary in place. Divide shopping lists so that everyone shares the task of shopping and fatigue doesn’t set in prematurely. Make lunch or dinner part of the day. Incorporate refueling into your shopping plans. Failure to eat or
drink can lead to hunger pangs and test shoppers’ patience, two factors that are seldom conducive to successful shopping. Having an end goal to meet friends or family at a nearby restaurant — even a dining location right within the mall — can inspire intrepid shoppers to get their work done promptly. Reward yourself for a job well done over a tasty meal and maybe a cocktail. Just be sure to indulge responsibly. Break up the day with a flick. Many malls also play home to movie theaters. Plan your shopping around the movie schedule so you can take a two-hour break to rest and relax in the theater. Chances are you’ll come out of the film relaxed, refreshed and ready to tackle the rest of your shopping list. Make it a date night. The thought of shopping may not conjure up ideas of romance, but if time is short, couples can use shopping excursions as an opportunity to spend time together. Visit a coffee shop or a bar for a nightcap afterward and enjoy some one-on-one time. Parents can enlist the help of a babysitter to keep children entertained while they enjoy some uninterrupted time with each other. Shopping fills the days leading to the holidays. Make the most of such excursions by inviting friends and family along.
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44 HOLIDAY GIFT & PARTY GUIDE • Blank Slate Media Newspapers, Friday, December 14, 2018
Are cash gifts tacky or ideal? W
hen faced with a gift list a mile long and no idea what to get certain individuals on that list, many holiday shoppers opt to give cash as a present. Cash gifts are easy, one-size-fits all and no one will request a receipt to return a cash gift. Still, some people are not quite sure if it is socially acceptable to give a gift of cash. There are many pros and cons to giving cash as a gift. Once a person weighs the advantages and the disadvantages to giving cold hard cash as a gift, then he or she can decide if cash is an ideal present or one that’s best avoided.
Advantages One of the advantages to giving cash is it eliminates waste. Unlike gifts that will never be used and simply take up space, cash will be used sooner or later. How often have you received a sweater you won’t wear or a trinket you won’t use? Sometimes people return these gifts, but very often they get relegated to a pile of belongings that will end up in the garbage or stashed in the back of a closet. Cash eliminates
this waste by giving a person the opportunity to buy exactly what he or she wants. Cash gifts may be ideal for older people to give because they have limited mobility and cannot get out to the store to shop for presents. And grandparents unaware of the latest trends can give cash in a card and instruct grandchildren to purchase something they like. Some people overextend themselves during the holiday season, and a cash gift can soften the blow of holiday spending. Cash is very portable, which can make it easier for those who travel for the holidays to avoid shipping costs or extra baggage fees to take gifts on airlines. People are inundated with a lot of stuff already, and a cash gift might be just what the doctor ordered.
Disadvantages Cash gifts may be considered impersonal and lacking in creativity. It does not take much effort to stash a dollar amount inside of an envelope and present it, so gift recipients may question their relationships with gift givers who give cash. For many people, the excitement of the holidays has a lot to do with seeing a giant pile of gifts waiting to be unwrapped. Gifting cash removes that excitement of presents under the tree. Although items can be purchased later on, the immediate gratification of tearing through boxes and bags simply is not there.
Some people find it awkward to receive cash because the value of the gift is right there in black and white. It puts both people on the spot and may create some uncomfortable moments if the value of a cash gift does not match up to what the cash recipient spent on the cash giver. When gifting standard gifts, many people are unaware of what the other spent and if the item was purchased on a discount. If you gift with cash, there is no hiding the value. Another disadvantage is if a person gives cash and receives cash in return. Do the two gifts cancel each other out? What if the amounts are different? Dealing in cash alone can be awkward. There are ways to make giving cash a little more acceptable. If you get creative when handing over the money, this may take away from the fact that cash does not make a very dramatic gift. • Try pairing the cash with a wallet or purse to make the presentation a little more interesting. • Send the recipient on a scavenger hunt for the money, writing clues and hiding them around the house. • Create a money tree or wreath that displays the cash in an interesting way. • Fold bills into bows or tape together to make wrapping paper for a small token gift. • For children, roll up bills and put it into a crayon box or pencil case. • Fill up a large box with a lot of filler and hide the cash inside of a smaller box tucked inside.
Herricks’ Coaches Make A Full Court Press Against Cancer
nt Coach, Daryl Wolfe, Assista Tom Kinsella and JV coach. Evan Rabinowitz
Mike Lesak, JV Coach; Jon Lavas, Head Coach, and Nicole Kaye, assistant coach.
The Coaches vs. Cancer program is a nationwide collaboration between the American Cancer Society and the National Association of Basketball that empowers basketball coaches, their teams, and communities to make a difference in the fight against cancer. The collaboration between the Coaches vs. Cancer and the American Cancer Society has raised over 87 million dollars. The Herricks teachers and coaches have helped raise money for the cause by selling t-shirts and organizing tournaments. This was a week-long celebration for a great cause. Herricks Teachers’ Association
Blank Slate Media Newspapers, Friday, December 14, 2018 • HOLIDAY GIFT & PARTY GUIDE
Hanging stockings with care
M
to dry by the fire. The family was overjoyed to have received such riches.
antles adorned with garland and other holiday trinkets make fireplaces come alive for Christmas. That magic is only enhanced by hanging Christmas stockings, which are just waiting to be filled with goodies for good girls and boys. Those without a fireplace often hang stockings from windowsills and stairway banisters.
Soon news traveled about the mysterious money in stockings, and other children left out stockings for St. Nicholas to capture their own gifts.
No written record exists to explain the origin of hanging stockings on fireplace mantles. Despite this, many people link the tradition to a tale about St. Nicholas. As that story goes, St. Nicholas was traveling through a village when he overheard the plight of three women. They were poor, and their father could not afford an ample dowry to marry them off. Rather than have them end up spinsters, St. Nicholas secretly tossed bags of coins through a window (or down the chimney, depending on which version of the story you read or hear), and they were captured in the girls’ stockings hanging
The tradition has transformed over the years, and now many children hang stockings by the chimney with the expectation that the stockings will be filled with gifts from Santa. Traditions once suggested that only gifts from Santa were left in stockings, while gifts placed beneath the tree were from family, but that has since changed. Stockings are now meant to hold small gifts while larger items are placed under the tree. Stockings should be hung away from the flames of the fire as a safety precaution. Some children even like to hang individual stockings on their bedposts instead of on a fireplace mantle.
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46 HOLIDAY GIFT & PARTY GUIDE • Blank Slate Media Newspapers, Friday, December 14, 2018
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oliday shopping has changed considerably since the dawn of the Information Age. Whereas holiday shopping once required shoppers to spend hours perusing stores at the local mall, nowadays many shoppers get the bulk of their shopping done online. Shopping online may be convenient, but more traditional holiday shopping still affords shoppers the chance to find great deals, especially at the last minute. Parents may prefer to leave the kids at home when holiday shopping, but sometimes they don’t have a choice. Fortunately, there are ways to manage holiday shopping trips with kids in tow. Encourage kids to create shopping lists. Keeping kids engaged on holiday shopping trips can be difficult, especially when shopping at stores that tend to draw crowds and long lines. But parents can engage youngsters by encouraging them to create their own holiday shopping lists for family members and then helping them find those gifts at the mall or wherever they plan to do their holiday shopping. Let kids bring their lists along and check off gifts as they purchase them. Let kids do their own shopping. In addition to creating lists, let kids do their own shopping, including paying for gifts they purchase for loved ones. Kids might be more interested when holiday shopping if they’re allowed to peruse stores for potential gifts and then
purchase gifts with their own money. Break up shopping excursions with a meal. Kids enjoy dining out, even if their preferences lean more toward chicken fingers than steak au poivre. By breaking up shopping excursions with meals out on the town, parents can give kids something to look forward to at the onset of the shopping day. Such a break also gives everyone, moms and dads included, a chance to get off their feet and catch their breath. When the meal is over, promise kids a trip to get some ice cream or hot chocolate at the end of the day so they once again have something to look forward to. Schedule some fun time. While parents pressed for time might not have much time to do anything but shop, kids are likely to grow impatient if the day does not include at least one fun distraction. Look for malls or shopping centers that feature fun things for kids to do, such as carousel rides or visits with Santa Claus. While this might require parents to spend more time at the mall or shopping center than they initially hoped, it can help keep kids engaged while giving them something fun to do at the same time. Parents who must take their kids along on holiday shopping excursions can take steps to make such trips fun for all involved.
Blank Slate Media Newspapers, Friday, December 14, 2018 • HOLIDAY GIFT & PARTY GUIDE
Great gifts for seniors Make Your Holiday Special!
B
y the time they reach senior status, many adults have amassed a ton of stuff along with their irreplaceable knowledge. Come their golden years, grandparents and other aging loved ones probably don’t need much in the way of material possessions, which can make it challenging to find them holiday gifts. Finding great gifts for seniors may take a little more effort, but with these ideas at the ready, it’s likely gift-givers can make this holiday merry for everyone on their shopping lists.
Family photo memories Many seniors love to talk about their life histories. What better way to be the catalyst for conversation than to create a photo album that chronicles their lives? Photos can be included alongside historical documents, such as old school projects, military discharge papers, awards, and even genealogical information. Photo puzzles, photo calendars and any home decor with a photo printed on it are variations on this theme.
Assistance gifts Seniors want to remain as independent as possible. By giving items that help them do just that, you can bring smiles to their faces. One idea is motion-sensing light switches and fixtures. If and when nature calls in the middle of the night, hallways or bathrooms can be illuminated effortlessly. Shower and bathroom grab bars are another idea. These provide extra security and stability when getting in and out of the shower or when using the toilet. For seniors who just need a little extra
reach, a grab tool can easily snag packages from a top shelf or pick up items that may have dropped to the floor, eliminating bending or straining.
Practical technology Seniors may not be as immersed in technology as young people, but they purchase their share of gadgets and increasingly rely on tech to get through the day. To free up more time for rest and relaxation, invest in an iRobot Roomba Robot Vacuum. This simple device will clean floors easily, moving from room to room without the need for a bulky canister or upright vacuum. Consider an easy-to-use tablet, pre-loaded with handy applications. Grandparents can use video chatting to keep in touch with grandchildren living across the country. Easily refill prescription medication with a pharmacy app just a click away. Stream favorite movies or channels through video streaming sites, like Netflix or Amazon Prime. Tablets tend to be lightweight, portable and user-friendly.
Personal care Even independent seniors may benefit from a little extra companionship and assistance when family members are not able to make frequent visits. Hiring a visiting care worker, who can do everything from organizing pills to making dinner to tackling some laundry, can provide the help seniors need with their daily errands. Seniors are a thriving and growing demographic. It may seem challenging to purchase gifts for older loved ones, but with a little know-how, it’s easy to find the right present.
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48 HOLIDAY GIFT & PARTY GUIDE • Blank Slate Media Newspapers, Friday, December 14, 2018
Easy ideas for holiday wreaths W
reaths are synonymous with the holiday season, and they can range from intricate to simple to flashy to rustic. Creating festive wreaths does not necessarily require a lot of skill, and wreaths can be fashioned from a variety of different materials. The first step to crafting wreaths is to gather the foundation pieces. This usually involves a sturdy material that will serve as the wreath round. It can be vine, foam, branches, or even wire. You’ll also need decorative items that fit the theme of your wreath. These may be berries, ornaments, ribbons, bows, and other trinkets that will be attached to the wreath. Florist wire and tape can be used to attach the ornaments to the wreath.
“Say cheese” wreath Purchase a premade evergreen wreath or wrap boughs of pine around a wreath frame to make your own. Glue or tie on small wooden frames with photos of the family to the wreath. Fill in the barren spots with small bows and ornaments.
Fruitful wreath Instead of an evergreen wreath, create something festive and edible. Fruit and vegetables in vibrant colors can be used to fashion a wreath. Use picks or wire to attach oranges, lemons, limes, clementines, and any other produce desired to a foam wreath. Use leaves to fill in sparse areas and a thick ribbon to hang the wreath.
Holly vine wreath Purchase a plain grapevine wreath and decorate it with sprigs of holly leaves and stems with berries. Simple and festive, this wreath should take only a few minutes to make and then hang.
Metallic wreath Add a glamorous touch to an evergreen wreath with faux fruit and pine cones that you paint with glimmering metallic colors. Intersperse items in gold, copper and silver for an eye-catching piece that can adorn any spot in your home. Add a few twinkling lights to reflect off of the metallic elements to add even more appeal.
Bells or glass ornament wreath
Use flexible wire to string a wreath of metal bells or glass ornaments together in a ring shape. Bells not only look nice but also lend a gentle twinkling sound anytime the door is opened.
Floral wreath Make a fresh flower wreath from a florist’s wreath and fresh blooms. Soak the foam wreath in water according to the packaged directions. Trim flower stems (carnations are durable) and insert the stems into the wreath. Attach a bow to the bottom of the wreath and then hang. This is one wreath that is best displayed the day of the festivities because it has a short shelf life.
Cinnamon wreath This wreath looks beautiful and gives off that quintessential holiday aroma. Begin with a foam wreath and wrap with a two-inch wide ribbon to cover. Use hot glue to secure cinnamon sticks all around the wreath. For more color, add sprigs of holly, bows or mistletoe.
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Blank Slate Media Newspapers, Friday, December 14, 2018 • HOLIDAY GIFT & PARTY GUIDE
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T
he holiday season is a special time of year to give thanks and spend time with loved ones. While the holidays are an inherently happy time, that joyful mood can be marred by the crooks who like to take advantage of people’s generosity, as well as their propensity to pay less attention to their surroundings as they do during less hectic times of year. Instances of certain crimes, particularly theft and identity theft, increase around the holiday season. Allstate Insurance advises that break-ins in residential areas may increase during the holiday season as well. That’s because thieves know that many homes are empty or cars are full of high-priced presents. To put the focus back on good cheer, delicious food, celebrations and gifting, individuals can heed the following tips to protect themselves and their property this holiday season. Park in well-lit areas while shopping. Aim for a spot under a street lamp or as close to the front door of the store as possible. Routinely put packages in the car so they do not become too cumbersome and bog you down. Some thieves prey on people who cannot defend themselves because their hands are full of packages. Place gifts in the trunk of the car. Make sure they are covered up and out of sight if you do not have a trunk. Take your packages straight home after each shopping trip. Do not carry excess cash or credit cards you don’t plan to use. Leave the full wallet at home so it does not
fall into the wrong hands or end up being stolen. Keep important credit card numbers in a safe place at home. Exercise caution around strangers. While you want to be friendly this time of year, this is a time when thieves may use various tactics to distract or disarm potential targets. Always leave lights on at home and do not forget to lock doors and windows when leaving the house. Empty houses are prime targets for burglars. Always give the impression that someone is home. Don’t advertise purchases. Keep mum about that big-screen TV or gaming system you purchased. Do not leave packages or boxes lying around outside your home. Instead, discard them only on the morning of garbage pickup. Keep an inventory of purchases and belongings. This will prove handy if you are a victim of theft and have to file an insurance claim. Use encrypted shopping sites. Many online retailers employ encrypted websites so customers can securely make purchases. Patronize only these retailers when shopping online. Be aware of credit card skimmers. Thieves may put skimming devices on ATM machines and credit card machines to steal card information. If a machine does not look right, do not use it. Avoid being victimized by crooks this holiday season by prioritizing safety at home and when shopping for gifts.
WE BUY GOLD 2449 Jericho Turnpike • Garden City Park, NY 11040 (P) 516-742-4590 (F) 516-742-4669 www.herricksjewelers.com Hrs: Mon.- Sat. 10-6 • Open Sundays until 12/23, 11am-5pm CALL FOR EXTENDED HOLIDAY HOURS
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50 HOLIDAY GIFT & PARTY GUIDE • Blank Slate Media Newspapers, Friday, December 14, 2018
Keep your natural tree fresh this Christmas
N
atural Christmas tree afficionados love the authenticity such trees provide during the holiday season. Natural trees also provide a unique aroma that can make holiday celebrations feel more homey. When purchasing natural trees, holiday celebrants, especially those who like to buy their trees in early December, may be concerned about keeping their trees fresh throughout the holiday season. The following tips can help trees last until the final present is unwrapped and the last of the egg nog has been consumed. Buy a freshly cut tree. Whenever possible, celebrants should cut their own trees. This ensures that the tree
they bring home is fresh, increasing the chances it will remain so throughout the season. If it’s not possible to cut your own tree, the National Fire Protection Association notes that fresh trees should have green needles that do not come off when touched. Trees that appear to be dried out or those that shed needles when touched should be avoided. Protect trees on the way home. The Tree Care Industry Association advises consumers to protect their Christmas trees as they transport them home. Wrap the tree in a plastic wrap so it makes it home damage-free. A damaged tree might not make it through the holiday season.
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Cut pre-cut trees before leaving the lot. Pre-cut trees can make it through the holiday season looking their best, but buyers should request that employees cut as much as two inches off the bottom of the tree before leaving the lot. Once trees are cut, sap begins to seal their base, making it hard for them to absorb water. By requesting that between one and two inches be removed from the bottom of the tree at the time of purchase, buyers are ensuring their trees will be able to absorb the water they’ll need to make it through the season when they get home. Place the tree in water the moment you get home. To prevent the base of
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Blank Slate Media Newspapers, Friday, December 14, 2018 • HOLIDAY GIFT & PARTY GUIDE
Create a delicious dessert for holiday celebrations L
avish meals are a large part of holiday celebrations, with many people indulging in dinners and desserts throughout the holiday season. This is a time when many families display their best recipes, and these may include certain desserts that can be labor-intensive to make or something more fitting for a special occasion. Cheesecake is an example of a dessert that, due to the time it takes to create and the richness of the dessert itself, is not something many people eat on a regular basis. However, with a time-saving recipe, cheesecake can become a dessert prepared in little time for holiday festivities. Try “Cinnamon Caramel Cheesecake Squares” from “Pampered Chef Season’s Best, Fast, Fun & Fabulous” by Pampered Chef® Test Kitchens.
Cinnamon Caramel Cheesecake Squares Makes 24 squares 2 2 1 2 ¾ 1 ½
8-ounce packages seamless crescent dough 8-ounce packages cream cheese egg teaspoons vanilla extract cup sugar, divided Flour for dusting tablespoon cinnamon cup caramel topping
1. Preheat oven to 350 F. Unroll one package of crescent dough into a shallow baking pan. Roll out the dough to edges. 2. Heat the cream cheese in a microwave-safe bowl, uncovered, on high for 30 to 40 seconds, or until softened. Whisk until almost smooth. 3. Add the egg, vanilla and 1⁄2 cup of the sugar to the bowl. Whisk until smooth. Spread over the crescent dough. 4. Lightly sprinkle the flat side of a cutting board with flour. Unroll the second package of crescent dough and roll it into a 13- by 12-inch rectangle. 5. Fold the dough in half from the short end; gently lift and place in the pan. Unfold and gently stretch the dough over the cream cheese layer; press the edges to seal. Cut off corners of dough hanging over and discard. 6. Bake 22 to 24 minutes, until golden brown. 7. Combine the remaining 1⁄4 cup sugar and cinnamon in a small bowl. Place the caramel topping in a 1-cup measuring cup.
51
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8. Remove the pan from the oven. Immediately pour the caramel topping over the cheesecake and spread to the edges of the crust. Sprinkle with the cinnamon-sugar mixture; let stand for 10 minutes. 9. Using a utility knife, cut into 4 x 6 rows to make 24 squares.
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52 HOLIDAY GIFT & PARTY GUIDE • Blank Slate Media Newspapers, Friday, December 14, 2018
Gifts for holiday hosts T
he season of entertaining is in full swing, with family, friends and coworkers gathering at various locales to enjoy some holiday spirit together.
When celebrating the holidays, it is customary to offer hosts a token of appreciation. During the season of giving, it may be challenging to find a gift that stands out in the crowd. However, some of the best gifts for hosts focus on their love of entertaining family and friends.
Music speaker: Music often is an integral part of entertaining, but not every party host is equipped with a stellar sound system. Today’s Bluetooth-enabled music speakers run the gamut from handheld options to speakers that combine mood lighting with sound to large units. Shoppers can find speakers that suit the space hosts have to work with and ones that won’t bust shoppers’ budgets.
Bar tools: Toasting the season (or any occasion) is par for the course at a party or get-together. Avid entertainers can benefit from having new bar tools, such as mixers and serving glasses, to make sure guests’ cups are never empty.
Party games: Keeping guests content often involves having plenty of beverages and food available. However, for the hosts who want to go above and beyond, game night or other entertainment-based
activities can add flair to special events. Board games, physical games (like horseshoes or bean bag tosses), games for video gaming systems, and even karaoke machines can fit the bill.
Cake stand or serviceware: Hosts may want to put foods on display, and a decadent cake stand or serving plate will make occasions more glamorous.
Spa gift certificate: Hosting can be hard work. After the guests have come and gone, hosts will no doubt need some time to rest and recuperate. This can be achieved more easily with a gift card to a nearby spa or massage therapist. Cleaning service: The gift of a cleaning service saves hosts from having to do the post-party cleanup, and giving such a gift in advance of the party can be the helping hand hosts need as the chore list grows in the days before the party.
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Blank Slate Media Newspapers, Friday, December 14, 2018 • HOLIDAY GIFT & PARTY GUIDE
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54 HOLIDAY GIFT & PARTY GUIDE • Blank Slate Media Newspapers, Friday, December 14, 2018
WELCOME HOME FOR THE HOLIDAYS Join us for worship, religious community and spiritual connection Holiday Family Service Nativity Play and Carols Sunday, December 16 11 am | Worship Room
Winter Solstice Service Friday, December 21 7:30 pm | Chapel
Christmas Eve Monday, December 24 5 pm Family Service 7 pm Candlelight Service Worship Room
Unitarian Universalist Congregation at Shelter Rock
Human. Kind. The worth & dignity of every person The right of conscience & democratic process
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48 Shelter Rock Road Manhasset, NY 11030 uucsr.org | 516.627.6560 Acceptance & spiritual growth
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