NOVEMBER 21, 2012
THE CHESHIRE HERALD, NOVEMBER 21, 2012
Two
Give Thanks To The Holiday Host And Hostess
E
ntertaining is such a big part of the holiday season. Many folks open their homes to friends and family to celebrate a time of giving and togetherness. Holiday guests can show their appreciation to the host and hostess for their hospitality with a thoughtful gift A hostess gift can be as simple or as extravagant as your budget allows. Many people tend to gravitate toward a food-related gifts that can be served at the gathering of friends and family. But conventional etiquette suggests that hosts and hostesses are not obligated to serve the beverages or foods guests bring and should not feel ashamed to reserve them for their own private use. So guests may want to think outside the box when gifting holiday hosts this season. Here are some ideas to consider. • Flavored dipping oils: Herb-infused oils lend a different taste to prepared foods and
can be served with bread in lieu of butter. Pair a flavored oil with a loaf of gourmet bread and include a decorative, shallow bowl that can be used for the oil. • Wine caddy: The number of restaurants that allow you to bring your own beverages has multiplied. Wine caddies and holders provide practical ways to transport a favorite vintage from home to the table. • After-dinner treat: Put together a basket of foods that can be served after dinner. A citrusy palate cleanser, like lemon-infused butter cookies, fresh fruit, and a sparkling beverage may fit the bill perfectly. Specialty stores often sell gift “towers” at this time of year that package together a variety of treats. • Scented sugars: Oil isn’t the only condiment that can be infused with flavor. Purchase canning jars and fill them with your favorite brand of granulated sugar. Add flavorings, such as cinnamon sticks, vanilla beans,
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A cornucopia of flowers makes a festive gift for Thanksgiving hosts and a lovely addition to the holiday table. mint leaves, or hazelnuts. Tie a bow around the jar and present it as a thoughtful gift. • Garden gift basket: Although the cold weather is here, a garden gift basket can still make a welcome gift. Include flower seeds, fertilizer sticks, a garden trowel, a pair of gardening gloves and any other essentials you can think of. • Spa gift certificate: Entertaining is hard work and a hostess may enjoy some time to re-
cuperate once the holidays have come and gone. A gift certificate for a facial or massage will provide some pampering. • Homemade treats: A handmade gift can tell a host that you were thankful to be invited to an event. If you prepare a signature dish, whip it up and bring it along. It’s also easy to create some simple garnishes and package them in a decorative tin or jar. Think homemade salsa or a homemade chocolate
ganache sauce. • Breakfast in bed: Enable the host and hostess to sleep in the next day by having breakfast all ready to go. Put together a basket or tray with individual bottles of juice, packets of tea or instant coffee, and some gourmet muffins or scones. Add a jar of jam and some small spreading knives. Treat the hosts to something special as a token of your appreciation for their hospitality.
Joseph A. Conte Jewelers, Inc.
3490 Whitney Ave. (next to Talbot’s)
Hamden, CT (203) 288-1133 M-F 10-5:30 • Thur til 7 Sat 10-5 • Sun 12-4
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THE CHESHIRE HERALD, NOVEMBER 21, 2012
Three
Get Away With The Best Winter Travel Deals
T
housands of people anxiously anticipate the arrival of winter. Armed with gloves and boots, these winter enthusiasts can’t wait to frolic in the drifts of snow. Still, there are many others who would much prefer sipping tropical drinks on sun-kissed beaches to freezing weather and downfilled coats.
suggestions for saving on your next getaway. Book early. If you know that each year you start to get antsy around the middle of winter, then plan annual vacations around this time. Make sure you request the time off from work and buy your tickets several
Once the temperature begins to dip, fans of warmer weather may begin the anxious dance that is trying to find a winter travel excursion. While there are some deals to be had, the clever traveler is one who begins the process as early as possible. According to Clem Bason, president of Hotwire Group, the winter season is ripe with travel deals. He offers that the first few weeks of December are the key times to get the cheapest fares all year long. This is not the only secret to winter travel. Follow these other
months before. Know peak travel dates. There are certain times during the winter when you probably will pay a premium for travel. The holiday season tends to be the most expensive time to travel during the winter. Be flexible with travel dates, and you could see your rate drop considerably if you travel just a day or two later. Sign up for a hotel reward program. Chain hotels frequently offer member incentives. By signing up for a rewards program, you can accrue travel
points that can be used toward it at different times. Sometimes member deals. Credit card hotel stays and other benefits. it is possible to trade timeshares companies can offer special Being loyal to a particular ho- among others so that you can members-only deals on travel. tel brand can help you collect vary or upgrade where you stay. What’s more, being a member points faster. Plus, some chains Still save with ski trips. If of a warehouse store like Costco offer nonadvertised deals specif- you’re not jetting off to the trop- or BJs could entitle you to disically to their reward members. ics but in search of the perfect count travel packages when Think about booking a pack- powder, land a deal by skiing booked through their own travel age deal. Many resort properties at the beginning or end of the centers. partner with car rental compa- season. Also, keep track of the Be flexible. Some of the best nies and airlines to put together conditions at ski resorts. If the deals to be had come when you packages. Packages may be less weather is questionable, you can depart at a moment’s noexpensive overall than booking can probably book trips at a tice. If you’re not hampered by each individual element sepa- discount and avoid the crowds. schedules, check out the lastrately. If you like the atmosphere of a minute offerings of resorts and Look into alternative ski town but don’t really like to travel sites. accommodations. When ski, book a trip prior to the first Wintertime is full of travel planning a vacation, many snowfall when you can enjoy the opportunities. Whether you’re travelers turn to hotels for shops and the town without the escaping the cold or heading their accommodations. hassle of fellow tourists. directly for a ski resort, employ However, there are other Check with your credit card some strategies for getting the avenues for affordable company about exclusive card- best prices possible. rooms. Websites like Vacation Rental By Owner (www.vrbo. Sunday, December 2, 2012 com) enable individuals with Seatings at 12:00, 2:00 & 4:00 pm Parks & Recreation Center • 559 S. Main Street rental homes, condominiums or Cheshire, CT timeshares to sublet their properties to deal seekers. You may be able to find an affordable For information and tickets, call place at a fraction of the cost of comparable hotels in the area. 203.699.TUTU (8888) Consider a timeshare. If you Tickets: $8.00 (10 & under), $12.00 (adults) (At the door: $10.00 10 & under, $15 adults) travel at the same time each year Seatings at 8:00, 9:00 & 10:00 and want a designated place to Performances at 8:30, 9:30 & 10:30 Limited Seating: Call for reservations and ticket information today! stay without hassle, timeshares Savor a full hot breakfast in the Delight in a full afternoon tea service in the Kingdom of the Sweets. could be the ideal situation. A the Sweets. Enjoy Kingdom of performances by Enjoy boutique shopping at Clara’s Closet. Meet the Sugar Plum Fairy. characters right out of The Nutcracker. at 8:00, 9:00 & 10:00 timeshare is typically an apartListen to the story Seatings of The Nutcracker. Bring your favorite doll and dance with Clara! Meet Clara, listen to her read thePerformances story, andat 8:30, 9:30 & 10:30 ment in a resort property that is All proceeds delight in boutique shopping at Clara’s Closet.will benefit this non-profit dance troupe Savor a full hot breakfast in the jointly owned by people who use All proceeds will benefit this non-profit dance troupe Kingdom of the Sweets. Enjoy performances by characters right out of The Nutcracker. Meet Clara, listen to her read the story, and BARBARA’S GALLERY CUSTOM delight in& boutique shopping atFRAMING, Clara’s Closet. LLC Seatings at 8:00, 9:00 & 10:00
a e mT
u l P gar
Su
C R E AT I V E E V E N T S B Y B O N N I E
Performances at 8:30, 9:30 & 10:30
• Photos
• War MedalsAll proceeds will • Tee benefitShirts this non-profit dance troupe
A framed • Dried Flowers picture • Sports Letters & makes the Ribbons perfect gift Gowns Invitations You Name It - We Can Frame It For The Holidays!
Needlework Savor a full•hot breakfast in the • Puzzles • Playbills • Doilies Kingdom of the Sweets. Enjoy performances by • Coins • Menus characters right out of The Nutcracker. • Wine Labels • Birth I'm here to assist you in choosing the perfect hors d'oeuvres, dinner,Meet Clara, listen to her read the story, and • Match Boxes Announcements dessert and perhaps a holiday signature cocktail! in boutique •shopping at Clara’s Closet. I will even help with décor, rentals and provide professional service delight staff. Christening • Wedding Your party will have a touch of class!
…and Too Many More to Mention!
All proceeds will benefit this non-profit dance troupe
Personalized customer service, always on the premises. Creative and unique mat cutting and framing.
A Fun Place to Shop
Affordable Then you’ll love ¯ Native American ¯ Handcrafted our selection. Jewelry Arts & Jewelry Jewelry For day or evening, For Any or play, Things ¯ Vintage & Antique ¯ Interesting work Occassion choose antique or
contemporary. Your only problem may be in choosing.
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Hours: Tues.-Fri. 10 a.m. - 5:30 p.m.; Thurs. 10 a.m. - 6 p.m; Sat. 10 a.m. - 3 p.m.; Closed Monday
(203)271-3432
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THE CHESHIRE HERALD, NOVEMBER 21, 2012
Four
Giving Has Psychological Benefits For Donors
C
Al Valerio/Cheshire Herald
Bella Solimine, age 2-1/2, helps sort tuna fish cans at the Cheshire Food Drive, which was held on Nov. 3 and 4. She was helping her parents, Michael and Nicole, who are both longtime volunteers.
Girls’
harities, of course, benefit significantly from the generosity of donors and volunteers, but the person providing the philanthropy also takes away something from the experience, and there actually may be measurable emotional advantages to being charitable. Helping others not only makes a person feel good, but it may also increase physical and emotional well-being. Several studies have indicated that being generous has profound effects on how a person thinks and feels. One such study from researchers at Cornell University uncovered that volunteering increases one’s energy, sense of mastery over life, and self-
Featuring
NightMurad Out
esteem. It also promotes feelings of positivity, which may strengthen and enhance the immune system. In 2008, Dr. Ellen Langer, a professor of psychology at Harvard University, advocated for giving gifts and being generous, even in tough financial times. “When you give a gift, it makes you feel generous, it makes you feel in control, it’s good for your self-esteem, and it’s good for the relationship,” says Langer. Psychologist Robert Ornstein and physician David Sobel, authors of Healthy Pleasures, talk about a “helper’s high”—a sense of euphoria that volunteers experience when helping others. It can be described as a sense of vitality and a “warm glow.” It has been compared to a runner’s
high and may be attributed to a release of endorphins. Here are a few more health benefits that may result from being altruistic: • an activation of emotions that are key to good health, • lower stress levels, • longer periods of calm after the generous act, • improved mood, and • a potentially longer life span. There are many ways to give and experience these physical and psychological benefits. Volunteer at a hospital or hospice. Donate unused items, clothes, or cars. Read to children at a library. Help care for animals at shelters. Donate supplies to a new teacher. Become a companion to a senior citizen. This holiday season, help others and feel good in return.
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A Holiday Shopping Event Where skin care meets healthcare Gift Certificates Available
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Facials & Body Treatments
6 ~ 6:00-9:00pm
Shop with: Lia Sophia, Mary Kay Cosmetics, Pampered Chef, Scentsy Wickless Candles, Shaklee, Silpada, Tastefully Simple and more. Complimentary Chair Massages provided by Staff of In Touch Massage & Spa. Complimentary refreshments.
3rd Annual Girls’ Night Shopping Event To benefit Breast Cancer Network of Strength
Admission is free but we are requesting one unwrapped Toys for Tots gift Wed.,food October 22nd 6-9pm. or non-perishable items for our Cheshire Food Pantry.
Shopping, fun, and complimentary services! 350 Southfood, Main Street • Cheshire • 203.272.9995 www.intouchmassageandspa.com
350 South Main Street • Cheshire • 203.272.9995 • www.intouchmassageandspa.com
325 S. Main St. Cheshire, CT 06410
203-271-1541
The
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203-865-3737 Celebrating 50 years of partnering with our families in promoting quality care for your children Physician in office 365 days per year Complimentary Pre-Natal and New Patient Visits
Evening and weekend appointments available Ronald Angoff, MD Nancy B. Brown, MD Gregory Germain, MD Dyan Griffin, MD Paul Goldstein, MD
Christine Patterson, MD Meridith Cowperthwait, APRN Brooke Fleit, APRN Jane Lawrence-Riddell, APRN
www.pmapc.com
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PLAN YOUR HOLIDAYS with
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CATERING • GIFT BASKETS SPECIALIZING IN BUSINESS LUNCHEONS Last minute orders welcome Delivery Available
THE CHESHIRE HERALD, NOVEMBER 21, 2012
Five
Plan Ahead And Prepare For Overnight Guests
F
amily gatherings are synonymous with the holiday season. Even those spread out far and wide manage to come together at least once at the end of the year. Family members who don’t live within driving distance of their hosts must plan an overnight stay. Lodging costs can be considerable during the holiday season because hotels can quickly fill to capacity. Holiday hosts who want to go the extra mile can invite guests to stay overnight at their homes. They can spend more time with hosts and won’t have to worry about finding lodging they can afford. Though it’s a nice gesture to host overnight guests during the holiday season, it requires a little work on the part of the hosts, who must take time out of the often hectic holiday schedule to prepare their homes for guests. To ensure everything is ready and accommodating for overnight guests:
Take inventory of household linens. You may need to stock up on extra linens. If only one or two people will be staying overnight, you should be able to make due with what you have. However, if you’ll be hosting a second family for the holidays, whether it’s one night or a full week, then you will likely need to buy more linens, including bedding, pillows and blankets. Take inventory and make sure you have adequate bedding for each guest, as well as some extra bedding in case of emergency. Discuss pet allergies. Holiday hosts who have pets should discuss pet allergies with potential overnight guests well in advance of the season. If guests are allergic to your pets, then it might not be comfortable for them to stay overnight at your home. While most families would not want to shelter their pets on a holiday, doing so is an option but one that may not even be worth it. Pet hair and
dander around the house might be enough to trigger an allergic attack even when the pet isn’t in or around the home, so sheltering the pet may not be a solution after all. Discuss this issue with prospective guests well in advance of the season so they have time to find affordable lodging in the event that any of them do have a pet allergy. Stock up on toiletries. Toiletries are bound to run out if you’re hosting guests for the holidays. Before guests arrive, stock up on these items, including toilet and facial tissue, hand soap, bath soap, shampoo and conditioner, toothpaste and extra toothbrushes in case guests forgot to pack their own. These items have no expiration date, so even if you end up buying more than you need you can
always use them down the road when guests have long since returned home. Clear the house of clutter. Clutter can make a home seem even more crowded when guests are staying overnight.
Clutter can accumulate anywhere in the house, from bathrooms to a living room to the kitchen. When hosting guests for the holidays, you will need all the space you can get, so clear the house of as much clutter as possible. Put all toys away and clear the common areas of items like shoes and
clothing that can make a space seem more cramped. Clear the dining room table and choose festive centerpieces that don’t take up much space. Don’t be caught off guard by a storm. If guests will be staying multiple nights, it’s safe to assume everyone, hosts and guests included, will want to get out of the house, be it to enjoy local holiday celebrations or simply to avoid cabin fever by getting some fresh air. The holiday season gets its fair share of inclement weather, so hosts shouldn’t be caught off guard by a snowstorm. Before guests arrive, stock up on items like a snow shovel, a snow blower, and salt or a de-icing product for walks and driveways. Hosting guests for the holidays is no small task. But hosts who prepare in advance can ensure everyone makes the most of their time together.
Local this Holiday p o h S Fine Fabrics • Supplies Books & Patterns
203-250-3838
www.dotsquiltshop.com 10 – 5 W – F 10 – 3 Sat
SALE - Holiday Fabrics & Flannels � Nov. 21 - Dec. 15 100 Elm Street • Cheshire
(Watch Factory Shoppes - 2nd Floor)
Come to Billy O’s for your Holiday Party There is
Always
Going On
Reserve a Date Today!
at
ENGLISH TAVERN
MONDAY - 50¢ WINGS DURING MONDAY NIGHT FOOTBALL WEDNESDAY - “TRAIN NIGHT” STOP IN AND FIND OUT THURSDAY - “KARAOKE” (9PM-1AM) $8 PITCHERS BUD LIGHT OR COORS LIGHT SUNDAY - $8 BUD OR COORS LIGHT PITCHERS DURING ALL NFL GAMES $3 BUD LIGHT OR COORS LIGHT 16OZ. DRAFTS
COME DISCOVER OUR GREAT SELECTION OF FINE BEERS & DELICIOUS FOOD
BEEF & CHICKEN POT PIE • SHEPHERD’S PIE • GUINNESS BATTERED FISH & CHIPS • BANGERS & MASH SPECIALTY HALF POUND BURGERS • SOUPS, SALADS, APPETIZERS GIFT
1783 Meriden-Waterbury Tnpk., Milldale, CT 06467 Open 7 Days a Week • (860) 426-9688
CERTIFICATES AVAILABLE
THE CHESHIRE HERALD, NOVEMBER 21, 2012
Six
Keep The Fresh In A Fresh-Cut Christmas Tree
M
any people harbor strong opinions with regard to which type of Christmas tree to purchase. Some cannot live without a natural, freshly-cut Christmas tree, while others prefer the convenience of an artificial tree. Those who insist on a natural tree might want to consider the following tips when buying one this holiday season. Ask when the tree was cut down. Pre-cut trees may be cut down weeks before they’re sold. If you’re buying a precut tree, chances are the tree was cut down much earlier than you think. This doesn’t mean the tree
won’t make it through the holiday season, but a tree that was cut several weeks ago should have some of its bottom trunk removed before it’s placed in the stand, to make it easier for the tree to consume water. This step likely isn’t necessary if the tree is cut down the same day you bring it home. Have the tree shaken before taking it home. A tree shaker removes any debris or dead needles from the tree, which can save you the trouble of cleaning up your car and your living room floor later on. Have the tree wrapped before taking it home. A tree should also be wrapped in twine
before taking it home. The twine should be tight enough to keep the tree’s branches from blowing in the wind when you attach the tree to the top of your vehicle. If possible, keep the tree wrapped in twine as you place it in the stand. This makes the tree easier to control. Choose the right location. When looking for the right place to set up your natural tree, choose a spot that’s cool and free of drafts. The tree should not be placed near heat sources, including appliances, fireplaces or vents, because such heat sources create a safety hazard and can make it difficult for the tree to retain moisture. There should also be ample space between the top of the tree and the ceiling. Place some covering on the ground beneath the tree. Even a freshly-cut natural tree will shed needles over the course of the holiday season. Before placing the stand in the location you’ve chosen, put some type of covering, such as a tree bag, beneath the stand so it’s easier to gather all those needles once the holiday season has ended.
Remember that natural trees are thirsty. Those who have never had a natural Christmas tree might be surprised at just how thirsty they get. The stand’s reservoir should never dip below the stump. If it does, you might be forced to cut a little more
off the bottom of the trunk to ensure the tree will make it through the holiday season. This is a huge hassle once the tree has been decorated, so be sure to check the reservoir at least once a day to maintain adequate water levels.
Did You Know?
The Christmas tree at Rockefeller Center in New York City draws thousands of tourists each year. The tradition began when construction workers building the Center decorated a 20-foot-tall balsam fir tree on Christmas Eve in 1931, using strings of cranberries and tin cans. While there was no tree in 1932, the first official tree was unveiled in 1933 in Rockefeller Plaza, and the lighting ceremony was broadcast over NBC Radio. The 1933 tree, at 50 feet tall, dwarfed the 1931 tree. However, the 1933 tree paled in comparison to the 10-ton Norway Spruce displayed in 1999, which measured 100-feet tall and remains the tallest tree ever erected at Rockefeller Center. The tradition of the Rockefeller Center tree continues to evolve to this day. LED bulbs that consume a fraction of the energy of incandescents are the lights of choice now. In addition, in 2007, Rockefeller Center partnered with Habitat for Humanity, who used the tree for lumber for home construction after it was taken down.
Local this Holiday p o h S Great Holiday Gifts for Your Pet or the Pet Lover on Your List!
Pet Playhouse “All Pet Foods, Supplies & Accessories”
1656 Meriden Waterbury Rd., Milldale, CT 06467 (860) 426-9640
Handmade Chocolates Truffles Caramels S’Mores
Pets Always Welcome
10% OFF
Everything in Store
excluding foods & supplements Exp. 12/31/2012
Gift Boxes and Gift Baskets Order Trays for the Holidays 55 Elm St. • Cheshire CT 06410
Find us on Facebook!
www.cocoashak.com
Follow our Twitter!
203-272-2128
Free Gift Wrapping
Mon - Thurs 10AM to 6PM Fri 11AM to 6PM • Sat 10AM to 4PM
THE CHESHIRE HERALD, NOVEMBER 21, 2012
Seven
Thanksgiving Day Parade Has A Rich History
T
housands of people line the streets of Manhattan every year to catch a glimpse of the balloons and performers marching in the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade. Millions more will tune in to watch it on television. The Macy’s parade is intertwined with Thanksgiving, making it
as much a part of the holiday as turkey and pumpkin pie. Historians believe the parade was instituted by European immigrants who made up the majority of the retail giant’s employees. In the 1920s, these now proud Americans wanted to celebrate with traditions similar to those in Europe, including a
parade down the streets. Animals were borrowed from the Central Park Zoo, bands played, and marchers wore different costumes. In 1927, concern for children lining the parade route led parade officials to replace live animals with the signature helium balloons we now know and love.
A dragon and Felix the Cat were two of the first balloons. The festivities continued to grow during the 1930s, when Santa was added to the parade’s list of participants. In 1933, he led the parade rather than closed it. During World War II, the parade was put on hiatus, as the rubber and helium for the bal-
loons was donated to the war effort. The parade resumed in 1945 and was televised only in New York. The 1947 film Miracle on 34th Street made the parade even more popular. NBC televised the parade nationwide the following year, drawing viewers from all over the country.
HOLIDAY DINING DESTINATIONS TheGood VictorianFood House Restaurant & Tavern
Good Friends, Good Times... Cheshire 203-272-5743 www.thevichouse.com
226 Maple Avenue
Order Holiday
A legend & landmark for great food, fun and company for decades!
Holiday
Party Trays • Stuffed Breads Lasagna • Sausage & Peppers Eggplant Parmigiana and Other Favorites
Parties
Live entertainment on weekends! Karaoke every Saturday! Private room available
Happy Hour 4:00-6:00 Make your family reservations now for Easter
Happy Hour 4-6 pm. Drink & Appetizer Specials 4-6 pm! and Mothers Day!
Every day
Gift Certificates
Sign-up now for the Annual Vic House Open Golf Tournament to benefit the Wounded Warriors!
Closed Thanksgiving Day
Two Great Restaurants - Both Nearby! Restaurant & Tavern
Extensive Menus – Daily Lunch & Dinner Specials – Open 7 Days a Week
226 Maple Ave., Cheshireª(203)
272-5743
www.thevichouse.com
Monday Martini Madness – two for one Martinis
529 West Main Street, Cheshire Ph: 203-272-7297 • Fax: 203-272-0309 www.cheshirerossini.com
Tuesday – Half Price Bottles of Wine Free Glass of Wine with pasta on Wednesday Raw Bar open all day, every day! Happy Hour specials Monday-Friday 3-6 pm Watch for the patio grand re-opening in April!
Italian Restaurant & Pizzeria 150 Main St. •Cheshire
K.T. Baxter ’ s203-271-9143
(Across from St. Bridget’s Church)
Wonderful selection of pasta dishes, chicken, seafood, veal, steaks, filet mignon, rack of lamb, and ribs. Fresh fish delivered daily.
728 North Colony Rd Wallingford Order your Holiday Platters now!!! (Holiday menus available) 203-269-2800 Also ~ Booking Holiday Parties Give the Gift of Fine Food
Gift Certificates Available! New Expanded Dining Room Available for Private Parties
GIFT CERTIFICATES
• Daily Lunch & Dinner Specials • • Children’s Menu • Party Platters • Eat In/Take Out!
Mon.-Thurs. 11:30 - 9; Fri. & Sat. 11:30 - 10, Sun. Noon - 8 We will be open Mondays in December
View Full Menu & Parties Platters at www.vespuccis.com
THE CHESHIRE HERALD, NOVEMBER 21, 2012
Eight
AAA Projects Slight Increase In Holiday Travel
I
n its annual Thanksgiving Travel survey, AAA projects 43.6 million Americans will journey 50 miles or more from home during this holiday week, a seven-tenths of a percent (.7%) increase over last year. This is the fourth consecutive year of increase since 2008 when Thanksgiving travel fell by 25 percent. AAA defines the
holiday travel period from Nov. 21-25. Of the 43.6 million folks who say they’ll travel this holiday: • 90% or 39.1 million plan to hit the road by car, an increase of sixth-tenths of a percent (.6%); • 7% or 3.14 million—a 1.7% decline—expect to fly; and • The remaining 1.3 million will choose some other mode
of transportation, including rail, bus, or cruise ship. Despite higher gas costs this year, auto travel continues to be the mode of choice because of its affordability, convenience,and flexibility. To offset these higher gas costs, Americans plan to stay closer to home. According to survey highlights: • 13.3% of New Englanders
are among the millions driving or flying, with auto travel rising seven-tenths of a percent and air travel declining 1.6% compared to last year. • This year’s round trips will average about 588 miles, compared to last year’s 706 miles; • 75% will stay with family and friends; • 45% say they’ll leave on
Wednesday, and 36% expect to return on Sunday. About a quarter said they’d return home on Monday; and • Median spending expects to drop 10% to $498 compared to $554 last year. AAA’s projections are based on forecasting by IHS Global Insight. Visit NewsRoom.AAA. com for the complete survey.
HOLIDAY DINING DESTINATIONS WAVERLY RESTAURANT 286 Maple Avenue
Señor Pancho’s A Little Tex -- A LOT of Mex
Cheshire
Booking Holiday Parties
203-272-2441
LUNCH HOURS
Tues - Sun 11:30 AM - 5 PM
DINNER HOURS
Tues - Sun 5 PM - 10 PM
SUNDAY BRUNCH All Day
280 Cheshire Rd. (Rt. 68), Prospect 203-758-7788 www.SenorPanchos.com
HAPPY HOUR BUFFET Wed - Fri 4 PM - 7 PM
Make your Reservation now for Holiday Parties for 10-150 People
On Sleeping Giant Golf Course • (203) 230-4640
“Converted 19th century Farmhouse with 3 stone fireplaces and large deck overlooking Sleeping Giant Golf Course”
Holiday Parties & Catering
HAPPY HOUR
NFL SUNDAY TICKET
Mon. - Fri. 4pm-7pm
25¢ Wings
Buy 1 Appetizer Get 1 FREE
$5 Domestic Pitchers
FREE QUESO DIP BOWL Enjoy a free bowl of queso with the purchase of any two entrees Expires 12/31/12
CH
20 % OFF
Your Holiday Office Party When booked by 12/5/12 Mon/Tues/Wed only
$
10 OFF
The Purchase Of $50 Or More
CH
One coupon per party/per table. Not to be combined with any other offer or promotion. Must present coupon. Expires 12/31/2012 CH
THE CHESHIRE HERALD, NOVEMBER 21, 2012
Nine
Tasteful Gifts Are Sure To Please Food Fanatics Pressure cooker. Many foodies are fawning over pressure cooking, which can cut down on cooking times without sacrificing nutrition. Some recipes may take half the time to prepare with a pressure cooker than they might with a more traditional cooking method, an important timesaving element that’s attractive to foodies who want to enjoy their favorite foods, but feel pressed for time on weeknights. And while pressure cookers employ steam to cook foods quickly, that steam also traps flavor and vitamins, whereas boiling can wash out flavor and nutrients. Many foodies also laud pressure cookers for their caloriecutting benefits. Pressure-cooking certain foods intensifies flavor, allowing cooks to rely less on potentially unhealthy additions such as salt or butter. Serving dishes. Of course, many foodies want to share the fruits of their labors with friends
Come Join The Fun! Looking for a Wonderful Holiday Gi ft? Can be used for Comedy Nights, Mainstage Theatre, Children’s Theatre, Music Nights or Stage II Productions. Call the box office for details or to purchase.
and family. For someone who loves throwing dinner parties, consider some serving dishes. They can range from casual (for the foodie who can’t wait to fire up the grill) to formal (for the gourmet foodie), so get a feel for your friend or family member’s
preferences before purchasing a set. Cookbooks. The ideal fallback item for holiday shoppers with a foodie on their gift list is a cookbook. Filled with recipes for dishes from their favorite type of cuisine—Italian,
Thai, Cajun, etc.— a cookbook is sure to please. When gifting one, peruse a few of its recipes to determine if there are any special ingredients that appear throughout. If there are, purchase these ingredients and gift them as well.
CELEBRATE the SPA
Holiday 2012
P
erhaps due to the increase in cable networks focusing on food, “foodies”—those with an appreciation and passion for cuisine— have grown in number in recent years, and holiday shoppers with foodies on their lists have a host of potential gift options at their disposal. Cooking classes. Many foodies like to cook as well as eat. Some communities offer continuing education classes for various types of cuisine and many retailers offer day-long workshops and tastings— great ways for foodies to learn something new and meet fellow food afficionados. Specialty spices. Spices can make the difference between ordinary and unforgettable. So, instead of “standard” cinnamon, buy a Mexican or Vietnamese variety. Such specialty spices can add extra flavor to a meal while becoming the go-to seasoning for the home chef.
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THE CHESHIRE HERALD, NOVEMBER 21, 2012
Ten
Catering For A Crowd? Do It Yourself And Save
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pecial events—holidays, birthdays or everyday get-togethers—generally will require you to provide guests with some sort of meal. With the right menu, budget, and a few assistants, anyone can self-cater a party. There are many reasons to cater your own event. Perhaps you desire ethnic or regional foods not readily available. Maybe your venue cannot accommodate the number of people you desired. Generally, however, people choose to self-cater to save money. Hiring a caterer may cost in excess of $30 per person. You can typically cut your costs in half by doing it yourself with the right planning. 1. Decide on a time. Hosting a party in between meal times is a great way to reduce the amount of food you will need to provide. Chances are if you schedule your party at 3 p.m. guests will not be as hungry and won’t need as much food. 2. Set an acceptable invite limit. A home kitchen is generally large enough to accommodate cooking for 60 to 100 people. If you plan to invite more,
you may not have the room and will need to rent out commercial space. Splitting up the cooking between two kitchens (for example, a relative or friend who wants to help) can stretch the invite number a little further. 3. Decide on type of service. Before selecting a menu, decide on the serving method: cocktail reception, buffet, sit down individual service, or sit down family style. Buffets are generally easier to manage. However, you may need to have more food than if you serve individually. Dinners are the most expensive events to cater, so cocktails and hors d’oeuvres could be better if money is limited. 4. Plan the menu. It’s best to choose menu items that you have made before, as now is not the time to try new recipes. Think about foods that can be stretched to feed a crowd that will be relatively inexpensive per plate. For example, offering guests individual steaks is far more expensive than cooking a roast beef that is sliced and served. Pasta, rice and potato dishes are filling and can be made in quantity. Remember to
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factor in at least one item that vegetarians can enjoy. Salads and vegetable dishes can serve to supplement meals, but generally are not as well received as other fare. 5. How much food? It takes about 120 servings to feed 100 people. That’s because you want to have extra food on hand for bigger eaters. Those who serve themselves in buffet lines tend to take larger portions than if portions are served by a buffet server. Teenagers (even girls) tend to eat more than adults, too. When serving beef and a second meat, such as chicken or pork, on a buffet, allow for 5 ounces ready-to-eat beef plus 3 ounces ready-to-eat second meat for each person. Therefore, you’ll need roughly 50
pounds of your first meat, and 25 pounds of your second meat to feed 100 people, if you allot extra for big eaters. Plan for 15 to 20 two-liter bottles of soda for beverages or the equivalent in punch or iced tea. 6. Purchase the extras. You will need chafing dishes, serving spoons, cups, dishes, napkins, flatware, and more to host your event. 2 cups per person for a 3-hour party (200 cups) 3 napkins per person (300 napkins) 2 plates per person (200 plates) 3 sets of flatware per person (300 forks, spoons, knives) 1 sheet cake, which can generally serve all of your guests 7. Set up. Be sure to arrive at
your venue or ensure your home is ready well in advance of the party. Light sternos and set food in chafing dishes to heat 1 to 2 hours before you plan to serve food. No one wants to eat cold food. Different “stations” make serving easier. For example, a buffet line, a beverage line and a dessert line. If you plan to serve alcoholic beverages, hire a bartender. This way he or she can moderate serving sizes and ensure no one over-indulges. 8. Hire additional help. It may be worth the extra expense to hire servers for your party, or individuals who can help with clean-up. This way you have a chance to mingle with your guests instead of spending the duration of the party in the kitchen.
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THE CHESHIRE HERALD, NOVEMBER 21, 2012
Eleven
Turn Those Leftovers Into Money-Saving Meals
F
ood cooked for the holidays is often enough to feed an army. Too often, hosts and hostesses prepare much too much food, only to find themselves left with a refrigerator full of leftovers when guests don’t eat as much as hosts had expected. Putting leftovers to good use can take a little ingenuity to disguise the reality that you’re eating turkey or ham for the third consecutive night. All it may take is a little inspiration to create delicious meals with repurposed holiday foods. The first thing to keep in mind when using leftovers is food safety. Any food remaining after the holiday meal should be packed into storage containers and refrigerated or frozen no more than 2 hours after the
meal has ended. This ensures that bacteria are not able to proliferate in the food and cause foodborne illnesses. Choose shallow containers, which will enable the food to chill more uniformly and not create warmer spots that take longer to reach a safe storage temperature. Do not save any foods that have remained at room temperature for too long or seem questionable, especially dairy products. It is advisable to discard leftovers (even if refrigerated) after 4 days. Use it or lose it! Now that leftovers are properly stored, you can think up some creative menu ideas for using them in the next few days. • Turn stuffing into croquettes or burgers by mixing chopped turkey with stuffing or adding a new meat to the equation, like
sausage. • Dice ham and potatoes and add to the morning helping of eggs for a country-style omelette. • Promptly boil the turkey carcass to make homemade stock for soups and stews. • Turn leftover mashed potatoes into a creamy potato soup, with the addition of cream, bacon and scallions. • Use cranberry sauce in place of butter on bagels or toast. • Mash up leftover sweet potatoes and bake into a moist and delicious sweet potato loaf bread. • Create open-faced sandwiches for lunch by layering ham or turkey, stuffing, cranberry sauce and gravy on top of a thick slice of bread.
• Diced meats, vegetables and onion can be added to a batter of pancake mix and turned into an easy quiche. • Host Mexican night and use leftover turkey meat to make spicy fajitas, complete with sour cream and salsa. • Use stale bread to make homemade croutons for salad or use in a bread pudding recipe. • Add cranberry sauce to boxed muffin mix for a tart treat. • Turn leftover holiday meats into an Asian stir-fry with the addition of water chestnuts,
Social Media Boosts Philanthropy
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ocial media has made it easier for charities to share mission statements, messages, and calls for volunteers or donations. Consider that: • One in every nine people worldwide is on Facebook. • Users spend 700 billion minutes per month on Facebook. • YouTube has 450 million unique users who visit every month. The site also boasts 92 billion page views per month. • Twitter handles around 190 million tweets per day. • Google+ was the fastest so-
cial network to reach 10 million, doing so in just 16 days. • During an average 20-minute period registered in 2010 on Facebook, there were 580,000 wall posts, 2,716,000 photos uploaded and 10,208,000 comments posted. Social media is an effective and low-cost method for soliciting people for volunteerism and fundraising. People turn to social media sites to find out information about the efforts of charitable organizations or to hear more from people who benefited from an organization’s services or actions.
Look hot. Stay warm.
bean sprouts, soy sauce, and mixed vegetables. • Grind meats to make a hearty meat loaf. • Make leftover potatoes into hash browns. • Cube leftover cake and serve on skewers and fruit for dipping into chocolate fondue. • Use pie crust and small ramekins to turn turkey or ham into savory pot pies. There are so many ideas for using leftover holiday foods this season. Experiment with flavors your family will enjoy.
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THE CHESHIRE HERALD, NOVEMBER 21, 2012