(StatePoint) In today’s fast-paced, digital world, there are many giftgiving options for loved ones far and wide, from sending e-gift cards to their favorite shops and restaurants to creating custom video messages. However, a new survey from Duck brand, a leading maker of mailing and shipping products, finds that the festive fun of sending physical presents isn’t lost.
“We learned that most people — 98% — send at least one package containing gifts and nearly half— 46% — typically mail up to three gifts throughout the season,” says Natalie Guillaume, director of product marketing, packaging tapes, at Shurtape Technologies LLC, the
company that markets Duck brand.
“To make the process holly and jolly, we recommend planning ahead and purchasing high-quality supplies to ensure presents arrive on time and in one piece.”
Good tidings delivered on time
More than 60% of survey participants say they send their packages two to four weeks in advance of when they need to arrive.
Still, 43% express their greatest concern when mailing goods throughout the yuletide season is the parcel arriving on time. Knowing they can’t rely on the magic of Santa’s sleigh to make a timely delivery, Guillaume suggests getting
Ship smarter, not harder: Holiday shipping insights unwrapped
ahead of the holiday hustle by checking delivery deadlines for the busy season. Then, leaving a little leeway to account for delays due to winter weather or other logistical challenges.
Don’t let tapeget your tinsel in a tangle
When it comes to shipping, the wrong tape can turn anyone into a Grinch. Nearly half of people (45%) say tape not sticking well to boxes is their biggest challenge. In this case, a heavy-duty tape will do the trick. Look for one with a wide temperature range performance, so you don’t have to worry about damaged deliveries due to a frosty
Tips to simplify holiday cooking
Food is an important component of the holiday season for millions of people across the globe. Many a holiday host has wrestled with what to serve for their gathering and how to prepare meals while still finding time to spend with loved ones. Sometimes simplicity is the way to go when hosting for the holidays. Just because certain dishes are less labor-intensive to prepare does not mean they lack flavor. Hosts can consider these tips to simplify holiday cooking this year.
• Utilize shop-from-home services. Supermarkets can be particularly busy this time of year. By shopping from the comfort of home, holiday hosts can sort through their lists and let someone else navigate crowded store aisles. The small fee involved for this service can be well worth the time saved.
• Scale back the sides. Some hosts feel an impressive dinner spread is one with plenty of options. Several side dishes requires a lot of time and money, and such foods
may take away from the star of the table. Guests might fill up on rolls, potatoes and salads, leaving little room for the main course. Scaling back on sides creates more time for hosts to mingle with family and ensures everyone gets their fill of the main course.
• Delegate some of the work. Asking guests to bring a little something to the meal doesn’t immediately turn it into a potluck. However, it can reduce some of the work the host has to do. Figure out who is bound to be an early arrival, and ask that person to bring an appetizer. Individuals who like to be fashionably late can bring side dishes or desserts. Delegating beverage detail also can be a timesaver.
• Familiar is often fabulous. A major holiday is seldom the right time to experiment with a new, labor-intensive dish. Rather than risk an epic fail, hosts should stick to meals they have prepared before. Also, familiar flavors may appeal to a greater number of guests.
• Include some prepared foods. While it is perfectly alright to cater the entire dinner, that can prove costly. If budget doesn’t allow for a fully catered meal, supplement with some prepared dishes to help save time, particularly those recipes that can be complicated.
• Make it a buffet. Sit-down dinners require careful timing to ensure all foods are set out hot and ready-to-eat. A buffet-style meal involves preparing trays of
forecast.
Additionally, 40% of people have experienced difficulty tearing packing tape. Duck Brand EZ Start Packing Tape, made with FrustrationFree technology, provides a simple solution for smooth, easy and quiet removal from the roll. The easy-to-use dispenser is uniquely designed to eliminate the annoyance of losing the tape end, which 39% of respondents say is a struggle.
With these tips, you can send parcels on their merry way for a holiday season of stress-free gift giving.
food in advance, and then setting them to heat in chafing dishes until meal time. This involves far less strategizing with meal preparation and frees up time for hosts to spend with guests.
Holiday meals require a lot of effort, but some handy suggestions can ensure hosts have ample time to spend with loved ones.
HOLIDAY GIFTS
This holiday season, spread cheer with gifts that light up little hearts.
BY ALAYSHA MAPLE
With help from Prisma Health Tuomey Hospital in Sumter and The Toy Insider, this list features some of the season’s most thoughtful toy recommendations that blend fun, learning and imagination to make each gift memorable. From creative playsets to brain-boosting gadgets and everything in between, these handpicked suggestions offer a heartfelt way to share the joy with the little ones who light up our lives.
0-2 years Old
Barnyard Activity Cube
This five-sided wooden activity center features farm characters, a bead maze, a tractor-trailer, interlocking gears, peek-a-boo pals and more for toddlers to practice fine motor skills.
PRICE: $49.88
Stack & Crawl 4-in-1 Crab
Little ones can use the crab as a rattle and teething product, then sort and stack its shells! The crab also moves in a circular pattern for beginner crawlers and in random patterns for advanced crawlers. Kids can listen to three songs and 15 different sound effects while playing.
PRICE: $30
3-4 years old
Baby Alive Crawl ‘N Play Harper Hugs
Harper Hugs features more than 40 sound effects. Kids can watch her crawl, help her fall asleep, feed her and more. The baby doll comes with a sippy cup, a hairbrush and a rolling bee toy.
PRICE: $39.99
Monster Jam Booster Playset
This playset features
a figure-8 loop track and includes two 1:64-scale monster trucks. Launch trucks into super jumps, crash through obstacles and more.
PRICE: $59.99
5-7 years old
3Doodler Start + Essentials 3D Printing Pen Set
Kids can use their imagination to draw anything into a 3D object, teaching them spatial awareness and building skills. Just charge the pen, insert a filament strand and start drawing.
PRICE: $49.99
Barbie Dream Besties
The Barbie Dream Besties dolls encourage kids to share their unique talents with the world and live out their dream. Dolls come with beauty-themed accessories.
PRICE: $19.99
SUPPORT A PEDIATRIC PATIENT
8-13 years old
Say yes! Alphabet bead Bracelet Set
Kids can use more than 1,000 colorful, assorted beads to create friendship bracelets with different messages to wear and share with friends.
PRICE: $14.99
Hello Blink Sticker Maker
This Bluetooth-enabled thermal printer lets kids print their own stickers — no ink required. Download the app, upload custom designs and print customizable, black-and-white stickers that kids can color in.
PRICE: $24.99
14+
3Doodler Flow 3D Printing Pen Set
Craft DIY solutions to everyday problems, make art, customize a space, and
more with this 3D printing pen. Draw freehand or use one of the hundreds of free online projects to make 3D creations.
PRICE: $79.99
Super All-Pro Passer Robotic Quarterback
Nobody else around to play catch? No problem. This robotic quarterback can launch a ball more than 35 yards and features nine passing zon
Nintendo Switch –OLED Model
This new system in the Nintendo Switch family features a 7-inch OLED screen, a wide adjustable stand, 64 GB of internal storage, enhanced audio, and more. Play on the TV or on the go.
PRICE: $349.99
If you’re looking to expand your gift-giving abilities this year, there are pediatric patients at Tuomey Hospital in need of a little holiday cheer.
Tuomey maintains an Amazon Wishlist that is open to the public. All items purchased will be used to benefit pediatric patients throughout the hospital. Visit prismahealthchildrens.org/locations/hospitals/tuomey-hospital for more information.
Monetary donations to help support pediatric services can also be made by mail to The Tuomey Foundation, 102 N Main St., Sumter, SC 29150, with Tuomey Pediatric Services in the memo or by calling (803) 774-9014. Donations are tax deductible through the Tuomey Foundation. For questions on the wish list or ways to support pediatric patients,, contact Caroline Erwin, CCLS, at caroline.erwin@ prismahealth.org or by calling (803) 305-6619.
Survey reveals what’s top of mind for holiday shoppers
(StatePoint) As the holiday season approaches, many consumers are planning to kick off their shopping earlier this year, aiming to lock in low prices, take advantage of promotions, and ensure all their gifts arrive on time. A recent survey by Sensormatic Solutions reveals key insights that can guide both shoppers and retailers during this busy time.
According to the survey, 52% of respondents plan to start their holiday shopping earlier than last year, and while shoppers are looking for deals, 48% plan to spend more than they did last year.
“Understanding consumer trends is critical for both shoppers and retailers alike,” said Christa Anz, global marketing leader, Sensormatic Solutions. “This survey
highlights important considerations that can enhance the shopping experience and inform retail strategies.”
Here are some of the survey’s top findings:
• Early shopping trends: Over half (54%) of shoppers plan to begin their holiday shopping before November. This trend indicates a shift towards early planning to secure deals and avoid the rush of the season’s busiest shopping days. Early shopping also helps lock in the best prices and ensure stock availability.
• Preferred pickup options: This year, 42% of shoppers plan to use Buy-Online-Pick-Up-in-Store (BOPIS), and 35% will opt for curbside pickup. However, 29% of respondents are concerned about
(StatePoint) The holidays are all about spreading cheer, and what better way to do that than with gifts that bring both comfort and style? This guide is your one-stop shop for finding the perfect shoes to keep your loved ones looking and feeling good all season long!
1. Stylish boots: From sleek ankle booties to statement kneehighs, there’s a perfect pair for every personality from brands like Timberland and Dr. Martens. Chunky soles and bold textures are
in this season, so don’t be afraid to make a statement!
2. Cozy comfort: Looking for some cozy classics to keep feet warm this winter? Look no further than Ugg, Bearpaw and Birkenstock. These brands have something for everyone, from plush sheepskin boots to supportive cork footbeds.
The holidays are the perfect time to kick back, relax and stay cozy with these timeless favorites.
3. Crocs and jibbitz: Crocs are versatile all year round, and
possible long wait times, suggesting to retailers the importance of efficient customer service during peak hours and the need to provide several pick up options.
• Spending management: While nearly half of shoppers plan to spend more this year, 52% of respondents noted they are creating a shopping list to avoid impulse purchases. In fact, 64% of younger shoppers have used recent deal days and flash sales to maximize their spending.
• Prioritize safety: Safety is key to a productive holiday shopping season. In fact, 69% of consumers feel safer with visible security measures such as security personnel, surveillance cameras, and Electronic Article Surveillance (EAS) tags, and 34%
of them consider these features essential for in-store shopping. This aligns with performance data that suggests such visual deterrents can effectively reduce theft and organized retail crime. Retailers should prioritize safety features, such as surveillance cameras and security personnel, to foster a positive shopping environment.
For more holiday shopping insights, visit sensormatic.com.
This holiday season presents an opportunity for both consumers and retailers to adapt to evolving shopping behaviors. By understanding these insights, retailers can better meet customer expectations, while shoppers can enjoy a more informed and relaxed shopping experience.
the season of style and joy
insulated options, especially the styles with a plush lining, are perfect for colder months. Thanks to the endless options of Jibbitz charms, it’s easy to add a splash of personality. Choose from charms that are festive, or which feature favorite characters or hobbies to create a one-of-a-kind pair that’s perfect for the season.
4. Retro style: Indulge in nostalgia and style with retro and Y2K looks from Adidas, Puma or New Balance. These iconic brands offer a modern twist on classic designs, making them the perfect choice for a thoughtful and trendy holiday gift.
Unwrap the joy of the season of style with thoughtful gifts that offer comfort and functionality by visiting rackroomshoes.com. For onestop-shopping, visit a Rack Room Shoes in your area, for more fun and exclusive accessories and stocking stuffers only available in store. The holiday season is about creating unforgettable memories, and the perfect gift can add a touch of magic to their celebrations.
Age-based guidelines for buying toys and gifts
The holiday season involves making holiday gift lists and checking them twice, or even more frequently to ensure that gift-givers find the best fit for recipients. While age may only be a number in certain instances, when it comes to gifting, age should be a consideration — particularly when kids are involved.
The Consumer Product Safety Commission reports that an estimated 86,000 children treated for toy-related injuries each year are younger than five. Toy-related injuries are preventable, and prevention often comes down to choosing age-appropriate toys for kids.
Toys can be choking hazards when small toys or those with small pieces are given to children who are too young to use them safely. Kids are curious and often put items in their mouths. Choking is the fourth-leading cause of unintentional death in children under age five, indicates The Emergency Center. Falls, eye injuries, drowning, and motor accidents are leading causes of gift-related injuries. Here’s how to select age-appropriate gifts.
• Read the packaging carefully. Most toys and other children’s products will come with an age range recommendation. While some kids may be mature beyond their years, it’s best to choose gifts that fall within the recommended range. This is particularly the case for infants, toddlers and any child under the age of five.
• Avoid fad gifts. Children often want the latest and greatest gadgets and toys for gifts even if they are not the smartest choices for their ages. Resist the urge to buy something just to be the “cool parent or grandparent,” especially if it isn’t age-appropriate. Mermaid tails became popular in recent years, and likely will see increased presence thanks to the home-viewing release of a popular liveaction mermaid movie. However, they limit movement and can make swimming more difficult, potentially increasing risk of drowning.
• Provide safety gear. As children age, they may be more interested in gifts that appeal to hobbies and abilities. Scooters, bicycles, skates, and other items are popular among older children. These gifts should only be purchased for those with proven ability, and even then, accompanied with the appropriate safety gear. This can include helmets, knee pads and eye protection.
• Consider waiting before gifting certain electronics. Although children may be able to use devices safely, there are many who advocate for waiting to give young children smartphones and tablets due to the consequences of excessive screen time. The American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry says children ages two to five should limit noneducational screen time to about one hour per weekday and three hours on weekend days. Children should be encouraged to pursue healthy habits that limit use of screens, so gift-givers can look for gifts that help to this end.
Age-appropriate gifts ensure safety for the youngest people on holiday gift lists.
How to make shopping Black Friday and Cyber
Monday pay off
The holiday shopping season is a profitable period for retailers. So it should come as no surprise to consumers that many stores now begin stocking shelves with Christmas decor and other holiday-related items as early as September, reminding shoppers that the countdown is on until the holidays arrive.
Historically, Black Friday has been the busiest day for retailers, but Cyber Monday has increasingly become a go-to holiday shopping opportunity. Now largely known as BFCM, Black Friday Cyber Monday is undoubtably the busiest time of year for retailers. These days can be a make-or-break period for many merchants. According to Drip, an e-commerce customer data aggregator, Cyber Monday was the biggest shopping day in 2023, with shoppers spending $12.4 billion — a 9.6% year-overyear increase. The National Retail Federation reported a record 200.4 million shoppers participated in Black Friday and Cyber Monday sales in 2023.
As people consider their BFCM shopping plans for 2024, these tips can help them make the most of these unique opportunities.
• Become a price connoisseur. Consumers who would feel right at home calling out correct prices on “The Price is Right” will have an advantage come the holiday shopping season. By understanding the standard retail price on many items, it is easier to know just how customer-friendly BFCM deals are. Consumers can look at the advertisements in newspapers or online and only shop the best deals to save money.
• Pay attention to early bird deals. BFCM is a great opportunity to save, and many retailers have extended this exclusive price-slashing period to offer “sneak peeks” and “early bird” opportunities that precede Black Friday and Cyber Monday. Shoppers can keep an eye out for early BFCM deals to save even more money.
Explore loyalty rewards. Shoppers who are part of stores’ rewards programs, whether that entails earning loyalty points or having a store credit card, may be eligible for additional perks. Although one’s email inbox may be overflowing this time of year with promotions, individuals should double-check their accounts to see if they’ve been given early access to sales or
special coupon codes that can bring prices down even further. Some retailers also may utilize digital coupons that need to be “clipped,” which is basically saving them to a loyalty account.
• Plan the shopping list in advance. A complete shopping list at the ready can make it easier to shop for specific items during Black Friday or Cyber Monday hours.
• Avoid impulse buying. It may be tempting to grab many different items because the prices seem so good. However, sticking to a list and only shopping for necessary items is an effective way to avoid overspending.
• Don’t forget small businesses. Be sure to check out the sales at local small businesses during BFCM as well as Small Business Saturday. Shoppers may find that deals at smaller retailers rival those at larger chains.
Black Friday and Cyber Monday present chances to save. Making the most of these shopping opportunities can translate to scoring holiday gifts at the lowest prices possible.
Holiday Gift Ideas for Students
(StatePoint) Want to brighten the holiday season for the students in your life? Consider gifts that will ease the transition into the spring semester. Here are few to consider:
1. Support a musical journey: With 44 mini keys, the SA-81 from Casio is a great keyboard for both first-time players just embarking on their musical education and accomplished instrumentalists. A built-in metronome makes practice sessions a breeze, and features such as scale tuning, octave shift and transpose help introduce musical concepts. One-hundred high-quality built-in tones covering a range of instruments, including piano, wind, percussion and acoustic instruments, along with 50 rhythm patterns in a variety of genres like pop, ballad, dance, and more, offer budding musicians a chance to experiment and express themselves creatively right away. All housed in a compact
frame, it’s a great choice for young students, students onthe-go, and dorm dwellers.
2. Lighten their load: If you remember lugging around heavy textbooks during your own student days, consider lightening the load of your gift recipient with a high-quality e-reader. Look for a model with note-taking features, adjustable lighting to protect eyes and portability. A color screen is also a good idea, as it will make diagrams and charts easier to examine if your student will be reading textbooks on the device.
3. Bring the world of STEM within reach: With the advanced features of a nextgeneration graphing calculator, the fx-CG50 PRIZM can support students through middle school, high school and into college. With Natural Textbook Display and an intuitive icon menu, students will find the calculator incredibly easy to use. Its 3D graphing and improved catalog functions allow for greater
engagement and real-life application in the mathematics classroom, and a host of compatible resources available at casioeducation.com can set them up for success. Because the model is approved for the SAT, PSAT, ACT and AP tests, your gift will be helping them prepare for a bright future.
4. Help them keep time: Is your student an athlete? Whether they run track, do swim team or tackle contact sports head-on, a durable, water-resistant sports watch can help them track their speed and progress throughout the season.
5. Expand their world: While many people today get their news by rapidly scanning headlines on apps, a deeper dive can improve literacy, expand knowledge and foster an understanding of the world. Consider gifting your student a subscription to a high-quality newspaper or news magazine.
Annual Fireside Fund fundraiser is dedicated to 2 local businessmen
STAFF REPORT
The Sumter Item is starting its annual Fireside Fund for the winter season in a continued effort to help locals keep their houses heated when the weather dips.
Each year between November and Memorial Day, the newspaper asks readers to donate money in support of the campaign. Every penny is donated to Sumter United Ministries, which uses the money to help its clients with heating final notice bills, propane access, housing updates and other efforts to help provide safe, cost-effective home heating.
SUM is an emergency and life-rebuilding nonprofit based in faith. While they provide services such as clothing and food donations, educational outreach, a free medical clinic and other basic and qualityof-life necessities, access to heat during the winter
months is a consistent and critical need.
Fireside Fund raised more than $27,000 last year, and Item readers have graciously opened their wallets to the tune of $1.8 million since 1969.
Updates will be published weekly each Wednesday and will detail a different story of impact from a SUM staffer along with donations from Item readers. Donations can be made in memory or honor of specific people or groups or anonymously.
Each year, The Item’s leadership team picks a person who has recently passed away to which the year’s campaign will be dedicated. The person honored is someone who made a positive impact in the community.
This year, Sumter lost two stalwarts in local business and community support on the same day, Billy McLeod of Piggly Wiggly and Carl
Simpson III of Simpson Hardware Co. Fireside Fund fundraising will be in honor of them both this year.
McLeod was 93 when he died April 4. His father, Gilbert McLeod, founded Mac’s Supermarkets, which changed into Piggly Wigglys in the mid-1950s, and McLeod worked in the stores for 70 years, dating to 1954.
Mac’s Supermarkets started with two small stores in Sumter. The McLeod family currently owns three Piggly Wigglys in Sumter and eight total. At one time, the family had 16 stores.
Simpson was 82 and died suddenly. Simpson’s father, Carl Simpson Jr., founded Simpson Hardware Co. in 1951 with the purchase of stores in Camden, Hartsville and later Sumter. Simpson opened a second location at Palmetto Plaza in Sumter in 1963. Currently,
HOW TO CONTRIBUTE
DO YOU NEED HEATING HELP?
Simpson Hardware has five locations: three in Sumter, one in Manning and one in Lake City.
Kevin Howell, director of the Crisis Relief Ministry for SUM, said, “The Fireside Fund specifically allows Sumter United Ministries to provide another layer of support and help to Sumter area residents that need it most. Prior to receiving the donations from the Fireside Fund, all heating assistance came from the same fund as all other assistance, meaning clients had to choose between getting help with rent or electric and heating requests. Now, clients that were assisted in previous months with other needs are still eligible to ask for help with heating needs.
“The assistance we offer is diverse. We interview people with Dominion Energy accounts (natural gas), propane invoices,
kerosene and sometimes electric heaters for those in need of a replacement heating source.
“The darkness and cold of winter have an impact on clients that are struggling financially and facing a personal crisis or other challenges. To know that we can offer assistance with heating even when we cannot offer other types of help is an encouragement to so many. In general, there is much anxiety in our community about the future, the economy and more. Providing heating assistance in a time of need reminds our neighbors in need that, no matter the circumstances, there are always people who care.
“Thank you for caring and sharing to make The Fireside Fund possible.”
Holiday spending projections
The holiday season tends to be the busiest for retail sales, and going by how shoppers opened their wallets during the 2023 season, many are wondering if 2024 will be another banner season for retailers. Last year, the average consumer spent around $1,530 on gifts and other needs for the holidays, according to Mailmodo. The United States Department of Commerce indicated retail sales grew 4.1% year over year in November 2023. Industry forecasters have made a few predictions for the 2024 holiday spending season, and
these are some key takeaways.
• The presidential election likely will have a major impact on consumer shopping. Shoppers were expected to bide their time (and possibly their spending) until they feel better about the outcome of the election. Forecasters suggested if a consumer’s chosen candidate wins, they’ll feel more comfortable about higher spending. If not, spending may be curbed.
• As retailers learn more about consumers preferences for personalized offers, shoppers may find finely tuned discounts and
offers showing up in their emails or text messages.
• Forty-three percent of consumers are carrying more debt now than in 2023 because they are reliant on their consumer credit cards more than ever. Expect to see more “buy now, pay later” deals by retailers to lure in customers.
• Salesforce research says consumers will continue to utilize the convenience of online shopping on Black Friday, blurring the lines between that popular retail holiday and Cyber Monday.
Unique holiday gift ideas to cherish Made with l ve
By Alaysha Maple
There’s something truly special about giving a gift that’s been made – and chosen – with care and creativity. This holiday season, step away from the ordinary and embrace the extraordinary with handmade treasures and unique experiences t hat speak straight to the heart. This gift guide, filled with one-of-a-kind ideas, will show when and where to create beautifully c rafted home décor to unforgettable experiences that leave a lasting impression and everything in between. Celebrate the magic of the season by creating moments your loved ones will cherish for years to come.
michaels
1267 Broad St Sumter Crossing, Sumter
Looking for that perfect gift to keep your loved ones warm and cozy from the winter chill? Why not make it?
Spend three hours with Michaels instructor Tamara Kelly from Moogly blog learning how to make an ultra plush, soft knit blanket with just your hands. And the best part: no equipment required! This free online class is beginner-friendly and good for all ages. Visit https://tinyurl.com/3rkh948w for information and to register.
PRICE RANGE: Online classes are free
siP & GoGh
1116 Alice Drive, Suite E in Sumter
Looking for more fun classes take? Michael’s has got you covered. Visit michaels.com/classes to find the perfect class for you – whether online or in person.
Give a splash of creativity this holiday season with a Sip & Gogh. Perfect for friends, family or anyone in need of a little R&R, this experience is perfect for a girls’ night out or a chance for couples to showcase their artistic charm. The perfect gift that allows for artistic fun in a relaxing atmosphere with a paint brush in one hand and glass in the other. Visit sipngogh.com or call (803) 972-1250 to find a
class for you and your loved ones. Sip & Gogh also offers gift certificates, only available toward classes purchased online on the Sip & Gogh website, and they never expire. Visit sipngogh.com/giftcards for more information.
PRICE RANGE: $18 to $75, depending on the class. Gift certificates can also range from $20 to $500.
lock, clock and Peril
5535 Broad St., Suite A in Sumter
escaPe rooms
Give the gift of adventure with a Lock, Clock and Peril Escape Room gift card. Perfect for thrill seekers and puzzle lovers, this experience will challenge friends and family to solve clues, crack codes and beat the clock together. This one-of-a-kind gift that is sure to bring laughs, teamwork and unforgettable memories this holiday season begins by
visiting https://tinyurl. com/2cwdad6p.
PRICE RANGE: Premium adventures range from $35 to $40 per person, and classic adventures range from $30 to $35 per person.
let's cook culinary studio
305 Assembly St. in Columbia
Spice up the holidays with a cooking class at Let’s Cook Culinary Studio in Columbia. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or curious beginner, this hands-on experience brings culinary dreams to life. Let’s Cook offers classes on how to whip up delicious dishes of all kinds, from Italian to French to Asian. Perfect for a couple or a couple
of besties, you’ll walk away with skills, recipes and memories that can help make every meal a celebration. To book a class, visit https:// letscookculinarybooking.square.site/. Gift certificates are also available.
PRICE RANGE: Class rates are $60 to $80 for individuals and $150 to $160 for couples classes.
How to participate in Giving Tuesday
The excitement of the holiday season is palpable. Many people look forward to this time of year so they can deck their homes in lights and find gifts that will delight friends and family.
The spirit of giving that pervades the holiday season extends to Giving Tuesday, which comes on the heels of the busiest shopping days of the year.
According to the Giving Tuesday website, Giving Tuesday is a movement that “reimagines a world built upon shared humanity and generosity.” Organizers feel that generosity is the avenue
through which humanity can collectively strengthen its social fabric. Those who would like to harness the spirit of charitable giving can explore these ways to give back.
Get involved where it started
Giving Tuesday started with a team from the Belfer Center for Innovative & Social Impact in New York City. In November 2012, these individuals implored nonprofits, influencers and businesses to inspire others to get involved with acts of giving. The organization has many initiatives that people can
support in addition to the original Giving Tuesday. Learn more at www.92ny. org/belfer-center.
Plant a community garden
Food insecurity is a problem in many neighborhoods across the country. Petition local city councils for a portion of green spaces to devote to a community garden to grow produce for those who may need it. Doing so can foster a sense of camaraderie in communities.
Start a caremongering movement
Caremongering began
as a community-led social movement to address health and social needs during the COVID-19 pandemic in Canada. Caremongering is designed to help vulnerable people and can include anything from grocery shopping for those with mobility issues to virtually or physically socializing with others to combat social isolation. Those who want to caremonger can do many other things, like run emergency errands or help with childcare.
Donate
goods and supplies
Areas of the southern
United States experienced extreme devastation with the one-two punch of hurricanes Helene and Milton in early October. Natural disasters can displace families and push individuals to the brink as supplies become scarce. It is likely recovery efforts in areas wiped out by these storms will take months, underscoring the importance of continued support via donations and volunteer efforts.
Getting involved on Giving Tuesday is easier than one may imagine. Let this day sow the seeds of generosity for the entire year.
