Joyful Holidays

Joyful Holidays De - Stress your Pet this Holiday

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Holidays can be hard on pets too Pets, just like humans, can handle the craziness of the holidays in different ways. For some, social gatherings can cause a lot of anxiety, but all need to be careful around holiday decorations.

“It depends on your pet,” said Dr. Monica Miller from the Animal Medical and Surgical Center of Coshocton. “Some are outgoing and do well with lots of company and some, especially a lot of cats, might not like company.”

If you are hosting a holiday party and have a pet who doesn’t like crowds you can try giving them their own space.

“You can put them in a room that they are typically in fairly often and give them their own space until the craziness is over,” Miller said. “If you are not going to be home you might want to have someone come over who knows your pet well and have them pet sit. Staying in their own home can be less stressful to pets than taking them somewhere new and having them around other pets.”

Dr. Christy Nicely from the Coshocton Veterinarian Clinic said even moving furniture around to put up a tree can cause anxiety for some pets.

“In most cases pets will adjust well, but changes can cause anxiety for some,” she said. “You just have to know your animal.”

Nicely suggests rewarding your pet when they display good behaviors in situations that might make them anxious.

“Sometimes we have to train our guests too,” Nicely said. “If a dog gets excited to see you and is jumping around wait until they calm down to pet them and talk to them.”

There also are medicines that can help relieve anxiety issues in pets.

One thing Miller advices against doing, is making up for not being home with food.

“Around the holidays we see a spike in problems because they are getting a ton of table scraps that upset their systems,” she said. “You also need to watch anything with a string that cats might play with. If they eat

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BY JOSIE SELLERS it, it could get caught and cut through their intestines. Glass ornaments also could get broke and eaten and that would cause a lot of problems.”

Other dangers include tinsel, holiday plants like Poinsettias and electrical cords.

“If you have a live Christmas tree you want to keep your pet from drinking the water because it could have fertilizer and things like that in it,” Nicely said. “Keep an eye on your food too because this time of year we tend to have more things like chocolate and alcoholic drinks sitting around.”

Here are some more tips from http://mcg.metrocreativeconnection. com that may help your pet deal with the holidays or any special occasion: Try to stick to the routine as much as possible. Although having a party or shopping for gifts may require demands on your time, try to schedule tasks and errands at times when it won’t interfere with pets’ schedules. For example, try not to alter meal times or daily walks. Also, if errands have you running late, see if a friend or family member can stop by your home and tend to the pets.

Keep pets’ identifications current. Times when people are coming and going from one another’s homes may open up possibilities for pets to get loose and lost. Be sure physical identification tags as well as contact data online for microchips are current so pets who get lost or run away can be easily found and returned home.

Keep pets away from table scraps. Rich foods and desserts are often part of celebrations. While these treats may be enjoyed by guests, they can wreak digestive havoc on many pets. Also, some foods may be choking hazards. Be mindful of taking out the trash promptly and don’t let pets indulge in too many table scraps.

Spend time with your pet. Pets may feel left out if you are too busy to spend time with them as you prep for parties and holidays. Make some time to sit with your pet and interact, even if you’re just playing around.

Leave a quiet space available for your pet. Some animals are very sociable and enjoy spending time with new people. Others may be skittish around guests and prefer a low-key area where they can reside during festivities. A quiet bedroom or a crate may be the perfect den for your pet.

You also will have peace of mind that the animal is safe and out of harm’s way.

If travel is involved in plans, gradually prepare your pet. Visiting for the holidays, birthdays and other special times often involves some sort of travel. You may need to condition a pet to spending periods of time in a crate or carrier so that the ride is event-free. Do so a few weeks prior to your travel date.

Know pet travel regulations. Some states have laws regarding the transporting of pets over state lines. The same can be said if you will be visiting from Canada to the United States and vice versa. Know the type of documentation you will need and file the necessary paperwork to ensure you do not face legal issues when traveling with your pet.

Schedule a vet visit. You want to be sure that your pet is in good physical health prior to any gatherings in the household. Having a sick pet when you’re planning a party or prepping for the holidays adds extra work to the entire equation. Local vets can be reached at: A-1 Vet Care Inc.: 740-622-4443; Animal Medical and Surgical Center of Coshocton – 740622-0013; Coshocton Veterinarian Clinic – 740-622-1146; and Pleasant Valley Vet Clinic – 740-622-3376.

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The magic of the holiday season is hard to replicate.

Gatherings with friends and family members can put smiles on many people’s faces, especially for those people who only see their loved ones once a year.

But the smiles and laughter may dim when faced with the prospect of returning unwanted gifts. Few people haven’t had to return a holiday gift once or twice in their lifetimes. In fact, a survey from Consumer Reports indicates that one in five Americans will return a holiday present this year, while retail merchants expect about 10 percent of all holiday purchases to be returned.

Part of the difficulty of returning items is a result of stores cracking down on merchandise fraud.

While there are scores of honest customers simply looking to exchange that paw print set of pajamas for something a little more stylish, there are plenty others who are interested in taking advantage of the holiday season to return items that may have been used, such as a cocktail dress that livened up Christmas festivities just as much as the spiked eggnog, only to be returned Dec. 26. With the desire to curtail fraud, retailers have tightened the reins on return policies.

Keeping this in mind and being prepared for a conversation with a store’s customer service employee can make the return process go more smoothly.

Know the store’s return policy. It pays to go online or call the store to find out about its specific return policy. Being armed with this knowledge could help you avoid a trip to the store and waiting in line only to be turned away. Return policies may vary depending on the item being returned, so beHURRY, sure to check about the item youTHOUGH have. Requirements often are more PRICE GOOD 10/31/15 stringent on electronics.

Use a receipt whenever possible. Receipts speed up the return process considerably. Whether it is the actual receipt or a gift receipt, this small slip of paper is evidence that the item being returned actually was purchased at the particular store on a particular date.

Bring identification. Stores will sometimes honor a return for store credit when you present your driver’s license. Keep in mind that there may be a strict limit on how many items you can return without a receipt, and many stores keep track of this information by utilizing the unique scan code on your license. If you are a serial returner, you may find your efforts are for naught.

Keep boxes closed. Restocking fees are charges exacted for items returned that have been opened. Generally they are applied to electronics and appliances - sometimes 15 to 30 percent of the total purchase price. To get the most value for your return, be sure to keep the box closed.

Cut down on the stress and hassle of holiday returns by knowing store policies and only returning items that are unopened and unused. And whenever possible, bring a receipt, even if it’s just a gift receipt.

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Local Holiday Events

Coshocton County Firefighter’s Toy Chest The Coshocton County Firefighter’s Association Toy Chest is accepting new unwrapped toys, wrapping paper, scotch tape, or monetary donations to help Coshocton County families in need for Christmas this year. Toy donations can be dropped off at either of the following locations: Coshocton City Fire Department located at 325 S. 7th St. in Coshocton or Walhonding Valley Fire District located at 100 S. Bridge St. in Warsaw. Monetary donations may be mailed to the following address: Coshocton County Firefighter’s Association Toy Chest, PO Box 133, Coshocton.

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JOYFUL HOLIDAYS

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TURKEY TROT 5K

COMMUNITY CHOIR CONCERT

Peanut Brittle Available Peanut brittle is available at Mercantile on Main in Coshocton now until Christmas for $6 per pound bag. Mercantile on Main is open 9:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Monday through Friday, and 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Saturdays. They are located at 313 Main St. across from the Courthouse. The Nellie Chapel UMC Talent Project will benefit 100% from the net profits and will fund various mission projects. To order five lbs. or more of candy or arrange delivery of candy outside of the Coshocton area, call Becky Bowden at 740-3272235.

Greystones Bazaar Greystones Coshocton Springs will have its holiday bazaar on Friday, Dec. 4 from 11 a.m.

– 3 p.m. They are located at 1991 Otsego Ave. There will be holiday crafts, baked goods, and Santa will be stopping. Crafters and vendors are welcome. Call 740-622-2074.

Christmas Candlelightings This annual tradition has been a holiday favorite for many people of Coshocton County and surrounding counties. This year, the candlelightings will be Dec. 5, 12, and 19 located on the Main Stage in Roscoe Village.

Admission and parking are free. There will be a variety of holiday activities from a visit with Santa, Christmas carolers, free Christmas crafts, carriage rides and A Roscoe Christmas tour. The Christmas Candlelighting Ceremony is at 6 p.m. each Saturday where a Christmas story will be read, and the 35-foot Christmas tree lit.

A Roscoe Christmas Tour “A Roscoe Christmas” Tour coincides each year with the Christmas Candlelightings and features a self-guided Roscoe Christmas leisure tour from noon to 5:30 p.m. and a guided candlelight tour at 7 p.m. Learn how holiday traditions such as Christmas cards, toys, treats, “visions of sugarplums,” and letters to Santa were practiced during the canal era. You’ll receive nice Christmas tokens and many warm memories to take home.

Turkey Trot 5K The annual Coshocton Turkey Trot will be Nov. 26 at 8 a.m. at Lake Park. Race day registration is from 7 - 7:45 a.m. Cost is $30 day of race.

The race is hosted by NLM 20:30 young adult ministry. For more information, contact Kelly West Lafayette Branch Holiday Open House Treat at New Life Ministries at 740-622-2181.

Mingle and Jingle with friends at the West Lafayette Branch Library Holiday Open House Lake Park Holiday Bazaar Lake Park will have its Holiday Bazaar from on Saturday, Dec. 5 from 11 a.m. – 2 p.m. Enjoy 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Nov. 27. This is the largest hot cocoa, cookies, a holiday craft, music, and bazaar in our area with more than 100 tables and door prize drawing. The holiday celebration handmade crafts, baked goods, holiday décor, is held in conjunction with the West Lafayette and other unique items. A lunch stand will be Chamber of Commerce ‘Christmas in the available with soups, sandwiches, and baked Village’ community event. Sponsored by the Friends of the Library. goods.

Warsaw Candlelighting The Warsaw Candlelighting ceremony will be Sunday, Nov. 29 at 6 p.m. in the gazebo at the village square in Warsaw. The event offers musical entertainment, an honorary candlelighter, and a message of hope from a local pastor.

CHRISTMAS CANDLELIGHTING

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Uh-Oh Here Comes Christmas The Coshocton Footlight Players will be performing this holiday production at 8 p.m. at the Triple Locks Theatre on Dec. 4, 5, 11, 12, 18, and 19th. Tickets are $12 for adults and $7 for students. This play features 15 holiday stories adapted to the stage, and written by the author of “All I Really Need to Know, I Learned in Kindergarten”, Robert Fulgrum. Call 740-6222959 for reservations. The theatre is located at 685 N. Whitewoman Street in Coshocton.

Christmas in the Village of West Lafayette The Village of West Lafayette will ring in the Christmas season on Saturday, Dec. 5. There will be a Santa Parade at 1 p.m. (line up starts at noon at Ridgewood Middle School – no preregistration), a holiday craft show with an eat stand from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. will be at the First Baptist Church and there will be breakfast by the Lions Club at the Methodist Church from 7:30 to 10 a.m. Santa will visit with the kids after the parade at the church. The “Grinch” will be shown at 4 p.m. at the Baptist Church with free popcorn and drinks for $.50.

Local Holiday Events

Coshocton Community Choir Christmas Festival Concert More than 200 singers and musicians from central Ohio participate in this annual Christmas concert on Sunday, Dec. 6 at 3 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. in the McKinley Auditorium at the Coshocton High School. The choir, now in its fourth decade, has commissioned a number of arrangements from well-known composers. Musical selections span the centuries with classics from each era being performed. This concert features the 100-voice adult choir, the 70-voice children’s choir and the 60-voice teen choir, all performing a mix of sacred and secular choral music. Tickets are $10 for adults and $5 for students and can be purchased online at coshoctoncommunitychoir. org or at the door.

Holiday Chi Class and Tea A special relaxing Holiday Chi Class at the Coshocton Public Library on Thursday, Dec. 10 from noon to 2 p.m. Afterwards they’ll set up tables, brew some tea and share food and fellowship. Everyone is invited to bring finger food to share. For more information, call the library at 740-622-0956 and ask for Holli.

Pearl Valley Cheese Fundraiser The Mentoring Center of Coshocton County is conducting the annual Pearl Valley Cheese fundraiser. Just in time for Christmas, each holiday gift box is filled with three packages of Pearl Valley Cheese (Colby, Marble, and Swiss) and an assortment of biscotti, tea, hot chocolate, and candies. Each basket is wrapped in cellophane with a lovely holiday bow. Cost per

Workshop in Roscoe Village Make your own holiday flower arrangement with Ed Kiefer of Kiefer Florist on Tuesday, Dec. 8 at 6:30 p.m. at the Roscoe Village Visitor’s Center located at 600 N. Whitewoman Street in Coshocton.

Live Nativity Travel back in time to Jesus’ birth during the Live Nativity on Dec. 11, 12, and 13 at the Coshocton Christian Tabernacle, located at 23891 Airport Rd in Coshocton. This drive-it-yourself event is from 6:30 – 8:30 p.m. and features living outdoor scenes beginning at the marketplace in Bethlehem and traveling through the inn, the stable where Mary and Joseph rest with the baby, and other important events in Jesus’ life including Jesus walking on water, a soldier praying at the cross, and finishing with Jesus’ resurrection.

Jingle Bell Jangle 5K Get in the hoiday spirit with a Christmas-themed Night Race 5K around the paths of Lake Park on Saturday, Dec. 19. A brand-new course around Lake Park will be all decked out in holiday decorations and lights. Each runner will be provided with jingle bells to wear as they run, if they choose. Hot chocolate will be provided at the finish line. Pre-registration is $25 and will be taken up until Dec. 6. Race Day cost is $30.

Meet at the Lake Park Canal Boat Parking Lot. The race begins at 5:30 p.m. To pre-register, visit jinglebelljangle5k.eventbrite.com.

CHRISTMAS IN THE VILLAGE

LAKE PARK BAZAAR

Bluegrass Music Christmas / New Year’s Party The Bluegrass Music Christmas / New Year’s Party will be Saturday, Dec. 26 at the Coshocton Village Inn and Suites located at 115 N. Water Street in Coshocton from 6 – 11 p.m. The featured band is yet to be determined. Bluegrass Music event supports Relay for Life and features a different headliner band each month. Admission is $6 per person. There is no charge for children 12 and under.

LIVE NATIVITY

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Santa, Story, and Song Make Coshocton Public Library a holiday destination this year. On Saturday, Dec. 12, they are offering a three-fold program bound to appeal. From 11 - 11:30 a.m., Santa Claus will be visiting the Children’s Room. He will be more than happy to listen to each child’s wishes and will be available for photo opportunities. From 11:30 a.m. – 12:00 p.m., child author, Piper C. Hawkins, of “Visions of Light: A Christmas Story” will read her story and be available to answer questions on her writing process. Holiday cookies and punch will be served. From 12:00 12:30 p.m., move to the Magazine Area to be led in a holiday sing-a-long by members of Certified Gold. Registration is requested. 11 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.

basket is $25. Pickup is scheduled for Dec. 16.

However, other arrangements for pick-up can be made with advance notice. Delivery is available for purchases of 10 or more to one location.

Customers are encouraged to place their orders by calling the office at 740-722-9095. All orders must be received by Dec. 7.

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Christmas in the Kingdom Musical The public is invited to attend Christmas in the Kingdom Musical at the Chili Crossroads Bible Church Sunday, Dec. 6 at 4 p.m. Admission is free. Cookies and cappuccino will be served as refreshments. The church is located at 29445 County Road 10 Fresno and can be reached at 740-545-9707 or www.chilibiblechurch.org.

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Have a stress-free holiday party, with a little pre-planning

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CHRISTMAS PARTIES Hosting a Christmas party can be stressful, whether you’re hosting a formal gathering or just family and friends around the dining room table. With these helpful tips, you can make preparing for your holiday gathering much less stressful. PHOTOS CONTRIBUTED TO THE BEACON BY HTTP://MCG.METROCREATIVECONNECTION.COM Whether you’re a seasoned cook and veteran at throwing parties, or new to the art of entertaining, hosting family and friends can provoke a condition that has been coined, “kitchen performance anxiety.”

Diane Rossen is a professionally-trained chef, writer, editor, food consultant, and radio show host who has authored more than 20 cookbooks. Diane shares a dozen practical ways to keep calm so you can fully enjoy being with your guests.

1. Start planning your menu as far in advance as possible of your gathering -- whether it’s an intimate Sunday brunch, a big cocktail party, a Sunday afternoon open house of cookies and coffee, or a traditional sit-down dinner. Tweak your menu as you get closer to the day to make sure you’re comfortable with what you’ve set out to make. You may need to edit here and there based on how busy your schedule gets during the days leading up to the date.

2. When selecting recipes, think like a chef and choose dishes with ingredients that focus on what’s in season and available at peak freshness.

This approach to devising your menu will ensure the best tasting results, even if you’re a novice cook. Fortunately, the holidays is all about celebrating what’s in season such as pumpkin and acorn squash, delicious root vegetables like sweet potatoes and carrots, and crisp apples, juicy pears, pecans, walnuts, cranberries, and more.

3. Seriously turn down the dial on stress by choosing appetizers, sides, main dishes and desserts that you can make either completely or partly one or several days in advance. This is a huge time saver that relieves a good deal of the pressure to perform on the day of your party. Selecting appetizers that you can make in

advance is especially smart, as this gives you the freedom to enjoy the company of guests when they first arrive.

4. Before you start cooking and baking, take inventory of kitchen equipment to be sure you have everything that’s called for in your recipes.

Are your pots and pans, cookie sheets, electric mixer, food processor, kitchen knives and other culinary tools in good working order? If you need to replace or add items, now’s the time to shop.

5. A well-stocked pantry is every clever cook’s secret weapon. Infuse your recipes with gourmet flavors by having on hand a variety of well-made red wine and balsamic vinegars, assorted oils, good quality chicken and vegetable stock, seasoning salts, capers, spices and nuts.

6. To save time on preparing drinks when guests arrive, consider making pitchers of a signature cocktail in advance, along with a nonalcoholic version. You can set up a tray in the foyer, kitchen or elsewhere that’s convenient for guests to help themselves. For an easy-to-make crowd pleaser that’s perfect for the holidays, try mulling fresh apple cider with allspice, cinnamon sticks, lemon slices, and a splash of bourbon or rum.

7. Make lists of everything that needs to be done, from shopping for ingredients to planning when the cooking or baking gets done to deciding on the look of your table setting and choosing your lighting and background music. You’ll make entertaining seriously simple when you refer to your “road map” of lists, a strategy that truly takes the stress out of pulling it all together.

8. Give yourself permission to round out your menu with store-bought foods. There’s no shame in focusing on what you make best and leaving some items to other experts, like the fabulous

bakery down the road with the most divine apple crumb pie and shortbread cookies. You can also make smart shortcuts, like purchasing readymade piecrust to save time baking your family’s heirloom recipe for sour cream pecan pie.

9. When you have a large gathering for a holiday cocktail or dinner party, select dishes that taste great served cold or at room temperature. This takes the pressure off making sure your timing for serving foods piping hot, not to mention stovetop or oven capacity, is perfect.

Many appetizers, such as dips, pates, crostini and, of course, cheese platters, as well as many seasonal sides, like wild rice salads and roasted vegetables, are at their most flavorful when served at room temperature.

10. Embrace offers from family members and guests to help out, since let’s face it, everyone winds up in the kitchen anyway.

Think ahead about the kinds of tasks that can easily be delegated so that guests can feel useful without working too hard such as tossing salad and serving into salad bowls, pouring water into glasses at the table, ladling food into serving platters, slicing bread, setting the table, and clearing the table. Being open to guests lending a hand puts everyone at ease.

11. Adapt the kitchen habit of professional chefs who are taught to “clean as you go.” It’s hard to achieve Zen-like calm in the midst of chaos in the kitchen. While you’re preparing dishes, be mindful of wiping down counters and washing utensils and bowls as quickly as possible. If you have a dishwasher, make sure it’s been emptied and ready to be loaded up as the party progresses.

12. Make enough food for leftovers to enjoy the next day as you relive your party, and take the day off from cooking.

Holiday menu planning for first-time hosts made easy

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CONTRIBUTED TO THE BEACON BY HTTP://MCG.METROCREATIVECONNECTION.COM restrictions. Upon being invited to a holiday dinner, some invitees may let hosts know if they have any food allergies or medical conditions that restrict which foods they can eat. Solicit such information from all of your guests, and do your best to cater to each of your guests’ needs. Some guests might be on a gluten-free diet while others may need to limit their sodium intake. You might not be able to meet everyone’s demands. Let guests know if they should bring an appropriate snack if you cannot provide one for them.

Include traditional holiday fare. People have grown to expect certain things from holiday meals, be it sweet potatoes on Thanksgiving, brisket for Chanukah or holiday cookies or even eggnog at Christmas parties. When planning the menu, be sure to include at least one of these traditional items, even asking guests for suggestions. Such fare will give the party a genuine holiday feel, and guests will appreciate seeing some items on your dinner table they have enjoyed at their own holiday celebrations over the years.

Don’t overdo it. First-time hosts want to ensure everyone gets enough to eat, so it’s easy to overdo things and prepare too much food. This can be expensive, and guests may feel obligated to overeat so hosts don’t have to discard any of the food they worked so hard to prepare. Though it might once have been a holiday tradition to overeat, many men and women now prefer moderation, and hosts should keep that in mind when preparing their holiday meals.

Hosting a holiday dinner for the first time can be nerve-wracking. But there are a variety of steps first-timers can take when preparing their menus to come off looking like old pros.

CONTRIBUTED TO THE BEACON BY HTTP://MCG.METROCREATIVECONNECTION.COM Tackling tasks well in advance has many completed their shopping. Fewer people tend to offer additional discounts or even free shipping. advantages, and often it is in one’s best interest be in stores in the final days before Christmas, Just be sure to balance the benefits of the discount to be ahead of the game, including when the as they are readying their homes for company or against the shipping price. If it means having to making travel plans. This can be a prime time pay a premium for overnight shipping, it may not game at hand is holiday shopping.

But men and women who simply can’t get for shopping and getting through malls or other be worth the investment. a head start on their holiday shopping need not retailers in less time.

More time to plan: By the end of the holiday fear, as waiting until the 11th hour to do the Discounted prices: Anxious to reduce season you may have a better idea of what you bulk of your shopping can have some distinct inventory and make the most of end-of-the-year need to purchase. You also may have polled profits, stores may discount merchandise even others regarding what they are giving, reducing advantages, too.

Consumer Reports’ 2012 Holiday Poll further for fast sale. Shoppers anxious to save a the chances of giving duplicate gifts. found 9 percent of shoppers - an estimated 17 little bit more or come in under budget may find Gift cards galore: Some people prefer to give gift cards, which are available all season long. million people - planned to shop in stores on waiting to shop is to their financial advantage.

Christmas Eve in 2012. Many stores are still Lower chance of discovery: One difficulty of Consumer Reports says 62 percent of last-minute open on Christmas Eve, even if the doors are shopping early is keeping all of the gifts hidden shoppers grab gift cards. If you fall into that only unlocked for a limited number of hours. for the duration of the month. Waiting until later category, waiting to buy the cards won’t be an That gives shoppers one last chance to find the to shop means only having to camouflage gifts issue so long as you make it to the stores before perfect presents. In addition to having more time for a few days. When you wait, curious kids are they close. to decide on gifts, here are some other benefits to less likely to find their gifts before the big day.

Last-minute shopping has its advantages. If shopping later in the season.

Last-minute specials: Some online retailers time is ticking away, there are still deals to be Smaller crowds: As the holiday season offer “doorbuster” sales at various times during had. winds down, many shoppers have already the holiday shopping season. These sales may

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Novice holiday hosts often have a lot on their plates. Whether hosting family or friends or a combination of both, first-time hosts typically want to impress their guests while ensuring they get enough to eat and have an enjoyable evening.

Since dinner is such a big part of holiday gatherings, hosts often place extra emphasis on what to serve, and that can be tricky when this is the first time they are hosting. When planning the menu for your holiday soiree, consider the following tips.

Get a head count. Though other factors will influence what to serve, the size of your guest list may ultimately dictate what to serve. For example, a small gathering of four to five people

will likely rule out turkey, as even a small turkey will prove too much effort and produce too much extra food. On the same note, a small dish like lasagna might not be doable for a larger crowd, as it will force you to prepare multiple entrees, which means more time in the kitchen juggling the various cooking duties and less time with your guests.

Once you have confirmed just how many guests you will be hosting, you can then choose a main course that suits the size of your guest list.

Decide which type of party you want to host. The type of party you want to host also will influence what you serve. A formal gathering should include an appetizer, a main course and a dessert, including both caffeinated and decaffeinated coffees. A less formal gathering gives hosts more leeway.

For example, whereas a formal gathering may include soup as an appetizer, hosting a less formal gathering allows hosts to put out some snacks or bread for guests to whet their appetites before everyone sits down for the meal. The more formal the gathering, the more formal the menu. Hosts of less formal gatherings may even want to host a holiday pot luck buffet, inviting guests to bring a favorite dish or side dish while the hosts take care of the main course.

Ask guests if they have any dietary

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Footlight Players to present Christmas play

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JOYFUL HOLIDAYS

NOVEMBER 25, 2015

BY JOSIE SELLERS

CHRISTMAS PLAY “Uh-Oh, Here Comes Christmas” will be performed at 8 p.m. Friday and Saturday, Dec. 4-5, 11-12, and 18-19, at the Triple Locks Theater, 685 N. Whitewoman St. Pictured are cast members Richard McKinley, Mickie Galajda, Heath Chaney, Jess Slaughter, Nathan Mayse, and Shelly Lillibridge. BEACON PHOTO BY JOSIE SELLERS COSHOCTON – The Coshocton Footlight Players upcoming production will make you laugh and tug at your heartstrings.

“Uh-Oh, Here Comes Christmas” will be performed at 8 p.m. Friday and Saturday, Dec. 4-5, 11-12, and 18-19, at the Triple Locks Theater, 685 N. Whitewoman St. “The author, Robert Fulghum, wrote ‘Everything I Really Need to Know I Learned in Kindergarten’ and this is kind of a Christmas sequel to that,” said Susan Metz, who is directing the play. “It features 15 different stories. Some have singing in them, some are hilarious and some are touching, but they are all really good.”

The different stories, in their own way, show the struggle to find the spirit of the holidays amid the avalanche of commercialism, stress and chaos that come with the month of December.

“One of the best things about the show is that everybody in the audience is going to be able to

identify with a person or situation in the play,” said Kathy Reid, the stage manager.

The ensemble cast includes Mickie Galajda, Richard McKinley, Shelly Lillibridge, Nathan Mayse, Heath Chaney and Jess Slaughter. The assistance director is Donovan Rice and the producer is Marsha Cusin.

“I’m really excited about this cast,” Metz said. “I think they are some of the best actors and we have a diverse age group, which the script calls for. It’s also truly an ensemble piece. There are no stars.”

Chaney, who said Metz helped get him started in theater, is happing to be working with her again.

“She’s my favorite director and since I’m back in the area going to school I knew I had to do this show,” he said. “It’s great because there is something in it for everybody.”

Lillibridge agreed with Chaney.

“It’s very heartwarming, but at the same time it’s also a comedy,” she said. “I’ve really enjoyed the closeness of the cast too.”

Mayse also has enjoyed being a part of the play, especially the way they get to present it to the audience.

“Instead of playing a character you get to be a storyteller,” he said.

Slaughter wanted to be in one more play before she moves this winter and is glad Metz cast her for this production.

“I love Christmas and working with Susan,” Slaughter said. “She’s wonderful.”

Galajda also was happy to work with Metz again and has enjoyed her time with the cast.

“I loved ‘Everything I Really Need to Know I Learned in Kindergarten’ and was excited to be part of this,” Galajda said. “It’s funny and touching.”

Like Mayse, McKinley has enjoyed the storytelling aspect of the play.

“You are really cast as yourself,” McKinley said. “You are playing yourself and how you would be under certain situations.”

He also likes that “Uh-Oh, Here Comes Christmas” will be new for a lot of people.

“At Christmas you always see ‘Scrooge’ and ‘Rudolph,’ but this is something a lot of people haven’t seen,” McKinley said.

The show is suggested for adults and children ages 12 years and older as there is some mild adult language.

To get tickets, call the box office at 740-6222959 from 7 to 9 p.m. Monday through Thursday and from 2 to 4 p.m. performance days. They also are available online at www.footlightplayers. com. An opening night reception with light refreshments will be held at 7 p.m. Dec. 4.

Tickets are $12 for adults and $7 for students JOSIE@COSHOCTONCOUNTYBEACON.COM

Prepare your home for new gifts before Christmas CONTRIBUTED TO THE BEACON BY HTTP://MCG.METROCREATIVECONNECTION.COM Are you ready for the boxes and packages that or haven’t seen the light of day in some time. unused clothes and other supplies will go. This can are set to arrive under the tree? If your home Make these the first things to go. If something make giving away older toys less traumatic and annually bursts with everything from children’s hasn’t been used in a year or more, add it to the more personal. Adults also should pay attention to any belongings they can spare. Take advantage toys to electronics to clothing, it may be time to donation pile. take inventory and prepare for the gifts that have Kids’ rooms and play areas may be some of holiday donation trucks in the area to clear your yet to find their way into your home. of the area’s most overrun with belongings. home of bulky sweaters, linens, older furniture, Before the first strand of garland goes up and Children are likely to get many new toys and or kitchen supplies. These trucks service some before you begin thinking about holiday wish lists, other gifts throughout the year, so focus most of well-known charities and associations, and items set a plan in motion to reduce what you already your energy on these spaces, cutting kids some will be appreciated and put to great use. Use the have in the house. This project can include the slack if they don’t want to part with certain items. weeks prior to the holiday rush to create space entire family and tie into holiday volunteerism If children are reluctant to part with some of for any gifts that might be arriving under your their belongings, stress the point that donating tree before Christmas Day. A little cleaning and that highlights this season of giving.

There’s a very good chance that your closets helps others who are less fortunate. Involve kids in decluttering can go a long way toward helping the are brimming with items that are collecting dust the donation process, letting them see where their less fortunate in your community.

Maximize time spent on holiday shopping this year

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Condense your gift list How much time you spend on holiday shopping depends largely on the number of people on your gift list. Shortening that list can save time and money. This may be the year for adults to collectively decide to forego exchanging gifts in lieu of devoting more funds toward gifts for youngsters. Distant friends may no longer need to feel obligated to buy presents for one another. Opting to do a “Secret Santa” or another grab-bag style gift exchange can reduce the number of gifts you need to buy, saving time along the way.

Keep a spreadsheet of your shopping list stored on your computer or smartphone so it can be easily modified year-to-year.

Shop off-hours Consumer Reports says shoppers expect to wait in store check-out lines for an average of 3.5 to 4 hours this holiday season. Avoiding such situations can save you a significant amount of time, so shop during off-peak hours when you won’t be elbow-to-elbow with fellow shoppers.

Take advantage of stores’ extended hours and shop later in the evening, when parents and their children will likely be preparing for bed and not waiting in line at the mall. Some retailers entice shoppers with early bird specials and open their doors very early, so shoppers looking to save time can make an effort to be the first person at the door when the store opens. If you must shop during a lunch hour, shop online where crowds are never a concern.

Split up the shopping Spouses, family members and even friends can pool their shopping time and help others by tackling some of their purchases. Dividing the work shortens the time spent in stores, and a third party may have a keen eye to a deal or a unique gift when he or she is emotionally removed from the purchase.

The average person finds time is of the essence come the holiday season. Prioritizing and economizing shopping is one way to make the season less hectic.

Businesses encouraged to fill flower pots for holidays

DECORATIONS The holidays are quickly approaching and decorations are appearing on Coshocton’s Main Street. Coshocton is Blooming is spearheading / initiating decorating the flower pots around the court house. Bundles of greenery were cut and tied and the bundles were added to the flower pots on along with white pine cones and red glitter branches. Overall, 30 pots were decorated. The pots that were filled with flowers this summer will remain in front of businesses / buildings along Main Street and the side streets. Businesses are encouraged to add decorations to any pots that are along their storefronts. The pots around the court square and in front of the Port Authority can serve as examples for decorating. Bundles of greenery are available at area tree farms and greenhouses. Pictured working on one of the flower pots on Main Street is Debbie Gaumer from Coshocton is Blooming. BEACON PHOTO BY JOSIE SELLERS

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The holiday season encompasses several weeks of frenetic activity, as men and women look to juggle abnormally busy social schedules with holiday shopping. While you might not be able to add hours to the day, there are certain measures anyone can take to make the hustle and bustle of the holiday season more efficient.

Shopping swallows up a significant amount of time come the holiday season. According to the latest Consumer Reports Holiday Shopping Poll, the average person will spend 15 hours shopping for presents. Women tend to spend twice as long

Create a shopping strategy Millions of shoppers flock to stores on Black Friday to take advantage of doorbuster deals, and some even get all of their holiday shopping finished on this one afternoon. Others prefer to divide and conquer over a few weeks. Decide how you would like to economize your shopping so you won’t be traveling from store to store wasting precious time.

Organize your shopping list into certain categories. Then match up those categories according to the stores that cater to these items.

For example, if your list mentions bedding for a new college student’s dorm room, curtains for an

aunt and a set of beach towels for a friend who will be doing some post-holiday travel, group these purchases together and head to a bed-andbath store. Such a plan in place can greatly cut down on your time spent shopping.

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as men in stores and online, with women logging 20 hours of holiday shopping compared to the 10 hours the average male spends shopping for holiday gifts. Making the most of holiday shopping trips can free up moments and reduce overall stress during the holidays.

10B

Celebrate with safety around your tree this holiday season Christmas trees are a beloved staple of the holiday season. Whether you prefer a freshly cut tree or an artificial alternative, the day a Christmas tree is brought home or erected is when many people truly grow excited about the holiday season and begin to be overtaken by holiday cheer.

But as beautiful and inspiring as Christmas trees can be, it’s important that men, women and children exercise caution around trees so no accidents occur. The following are some Christmas tree safety tips courtesy of the National Fire Protection Association.

Choose the right tree. The tree you choose can go a long way toward ensuring the tree will make it through the season accident-free. Artificial trees should be identified on their labels as fire retardant, which means they are less susceptible to fire, something that’s especially important since so many people drape their trees in decorative lights. A freshly cut tree should have fresh, green needles that do not fall off when the tree is touched. This indicates that the tree is not dried out and less susceptible to catching on fire.

Do not place the tree near a heat source. Even freshly cut and flame retardant trees can catch fire, so it’s important that trees are not placed in close proximity to any heat sources, including fireplaces, radiators, heating vents, baseboard heaters, and candles. In addition, avoid placing the tree near lights or lamps that emit a lot of heat.

Keep the tree clear of exits. A Christmas tree should never be placed in a spot that bars an exit. Should an accident happen and the tree light on fire, all exits should be easily accessible so residents and guests can quickly get out of the home.

Add water to the tree stand every day. Water should be added to the tree’s stand every day. That water will not only help the tree maintain its color and aesthetic appeal, but also helps to prevent the tree from drying

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out. A dry tree is a significant safety risk, so be sure to check if the tree needs water when you wake up each morning and again before going to bed. Many trees initially need water both in the morning and at night. As the holiday season wears on, the tree will likely consume less water, but it’s still best to monitor the stand’s water levels every day until the tree is discarded.

Inspect lights before decorating the tree. All Christmas lights should be inspected before they are hung on the tree. Replace any loose or burned out bulbs, and inspect cords to make sure they are not worn down or frayed. Follow manufacturer instructions carefully when stringing lights, as there may be specific guidelines as to how many strings of lights can be connected at one time.

Use appropriate lights. Many lights are exclusive to indoor or outdoor use, so be sure to use the appropriate lights for your indoor tree. The wrong lights could be a safety hazard. Do not hang lit candles on a Christmas tree.

Turn lights off before going to bed. Though a Christmas tree may look beautiful when it is illuminated in the middle of the night when no other lights are on, the lights on the tree should always be turned off before going to bed or leaving your home.

Properly discard the tree. Trees that have dried out pose a considerable fire risk, so it’s best to discard a tree when it starts to drop needles. Do not place a discarded tree in the garage or lean it up against your home. If necessary, consult a local recycling company to determine the best way to discard your tree.

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Too much household clutter is not only unsightly but also can contribute to a stressful environment. Children’s toys are often key contributors to homes overrun with clutter, but with a growing family and birthday and holiday gifts streaming in, it can be challenging for parents to tame toyrelated clutter.

Parents who have hosted play dates know that once the fun ends their youngsters’ rooms often appear overrun with toys. Kids have a funny knack of taking out every toy they own without putting their toys away.

But with a few tips, anyone can conquer the clutter created by toys.

Take stock of what you have. Taking inventory helps to determine which toys can ultimately be donated or discarded. Look for duplicates, similar items, broken toys, and items that are seldom used.

Start to organize. When you have everything laid out in clear view, start to divide and conquer. Create groups in which to sort the toys. Dolls should be in one pile, building blocks in another and so on. Figure out a system that works for your family. You may find that active, sports-related items can be moved to the garage, while board games and books may be moved to a family room or a community closet in the house to free up more space in playrooms. Seasonal toys can be stored away in an attic or basement until they are needed.

Create accessible storage. Toys should be stored where kids can easily access them. Clear bins are great for storage, and such bins come in a variety of sizes. Construct cubbies in the playroom where these bins can be kept. Be sure they are nearly ground level and not too heavy so that children can easily get to their toys come play time.

Construct or buy a toy chest. A toy chest can house larger toys and act as a receptacle for fast cleanup when kids need to tidy up before company arrives. Such chests are good for storing larger cars and trucks or the hordes of stuffed animals kids accumulate.

Shelving gets things off the floor. Display collectibles that cannot be damaged on shelves. This makes sure they are still on display but not in jeopardy of being mishandled by curious youngsters.

Donate toys kids no longer use. It can be a tough job, but children should work with you to thin out their toy collections. Designate a certain portion of items that need to go. Bring them to a consignment shop or donate them to kids in need.

Organizing youngsters’ toy collections can be a difficult job, but such organization is essential to keep a tidy home.

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Perhaps no time of year is as busy as the holiday season, when social engagements and holiday shopping combine to dominate so much of what is normally our free time. Additionally, holiday travel and late nights spent at work to make up for lost time also cut into our free time, leaving many people in search of ways to add more hours to the day. Though there’s no way to make a day last longer, there are ways to save some time this holiday season.

Go it alone. Holiday shopping can be very time consuming, but shoppers who decide to shop alone may find themselves more productive and focused on the task at hand. Rather than going from store to store and checking items off multiple shopping lists, shoppers who shop singularly can devote all of their attention to their

own lists.

Shop online. Another way to save time when shopping for the holidays is to shop online. This saves you the time it takes to drive to and from the mall and walk around multiple stores, all the while saving you from the often frustrating and time-consuming experience of finding a parking space. In addition, you can shop online at any time of day. So rather than just eating lunch at your desk on your lunch hour or spending the last hour before you go to bed for the night idling away on the couch, you can make more efficient use of that time by doing some holiday shopping.

Plan ahead. Whether shopping for holiday gifts, taking the family to buy a Christmas tree or organizing a holiday dinner with friends, the more you can plan ahead of the holiday season

Simplify gift giving this holiday season

the less time you will waste once the season hits full swing. For example, when choosing a weekend to go Christmas tree shopping, inform others a few weeks in advance and let them know you want to go early to avoid crowds. This saves you time and might just help you land one of the best trees on the lot. The same principle of planning can be applied to other aspects of the holiday season as well. Planning a meal early allows you to gradually stock up on menu items, saving you the hassle of rushing to the store at the last minute or planning a menu in the days before the party when you will already have enough on your plate.

Don’t shy away from shortcuts when hosting holiday dinners. Hosting a holiday dinner is a big undertaking, one that often finds hosts spending a significant amount of time in the kitchen. But hosts can save time by taking some shortcuts regarding the menu. For instance, when hosting an especially large meal, don’t be afraid to buy some premade side dishes from a local grocery store or buy a bakery cake rather than whipping up your own homemade dessert. Guests will understand if you cut some corners in an effort to save some time, and the food will likely be just as delicious.

Stay home. Travel is a big commitment come the holiday season, but what about staying home this season? If the time commitment of traveling is something you truly want to avoid this year, invite some friends and family over to your home instead. You might be more busy on the day of the holiday, but you will save yourself the travel days you usually build into the holiday season.

Parents of young children might prefer to stay home so they can create their own unique holiday memories, while those without children might just appreciate some peace and quiet during this hectic time of year.

CONTRIBUTED TO THE BEACON BY HTTP://MCG.METROCREATIVECONNECTION.COM Gift-giving is not always easy. Some people risk of getting the wrong item. To make gift cards item won’t necessarily be the favorite. Tap into already seem to have it all, while others might more heartfelt, offer to go along on the shopping what the gift recipient enjoys and cater to those not be forthcoming with regard to their interests spree with the person after giving the card. This interests. Also, don’t feel compelled to make or needs. But there are a few strategies gift givers way you can share in the experience and know everything “even” in terms of gift value. If you that the recipient got something he or she truly received a gift from this person in the past, you can employ to simplify the gifting process.

Choose experiences as gifts. A new gadget loves. don’t have to meet or exceed that gift’s value might be nice, but it also may lose its luster after Gift baskets are sure winners. Themed gift when reciprocating. a few months. However, a unique experience baskets can certainly make gift-giving easier. Accept that there’s no “perfect gift.” Don’t can create memories that last a lifetime. Opt Once you choose a theme, it’s just a matter of set expectations that cannot be reached. Those for experiences like trips, tickets to shows or putting together several coordinating items. who continually seek out the ideal gift and then sporting events. Doing new things together can Foodies can fawn over cookware and recipe try to beat that gift the next time around can make ingredients, while movie buffs may like a the experience more stressful than it has to be. solidify relationships and keep them fresh.

Gift cards with a twist. Some people shy popcorn maker, candy and a streaming movie away from gift cards because they feel such cards subscription. are impersonal. However, there’s no denying the Emphasize enjoyment over price. Bigger convenience of gift cards, and you don’t run the isn’t always better, and the more expensive

Learn how to stay health this holiday season

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HEALTHY HOLIDAYS Eating right and getting your annual flu shot can help you have a healthy holiday. PHOTOS CONTRIBUTED TO THE BEACON BY HTTP://MCG. METROCREATIVECONNECTION.COM With the holiday season upon us, many people’s schedules are hectic once in the day for shopping or parties. Early morning is a good time to exercise again. There are social events and family gatherings to attend, shopping because it gets you moving first thing in the morning and might even ventures to make, and decorating to be done. While fun, the holiday season encourage you to hit the sack a little earlier each night, ensuring you get can be a time of added pressure, which leads to stress and other unhealthy all the sleep you need. Exercise also can improve energy levels and relieve stress. situations.

At a time when you want to be at your best, stress can affect your Don’t focus on food. Focus more on enjoyable activities that keep you physical well-being. The American Psychological Association says the moving rather than always being seated around the table for a big meal. hustle and bustle of the holidays has psychological consequences for some Save indulgences for people. More people are inclined to feel that their stress increases, rather one or two treats on than decreases, around the holidays. The National Institute of Mental Health the holidays and eat says chronic stress can lower immunity and cause excretory, digestive and sensibly otherwise. reproductive systems to stop working properly. Stress also may cause you Talk to someone.

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The upcoming holiday season made easy

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With so much on our plates between Thanksgiving and New Year’s Day, the holiday season can be hectic. Fortunately, there are many ways to save time and make the holiday season more manageable.

If you don’t have plastic clips to hang lights around windows and to the eaves of your home, inexpensive clothespins will work just as well. If you’re concerned about the color of the wooden clips, paint them holiday hues before stringing the lights.

Put a bath mat, rug-side down and rubberside up, beneath your Christmas tree stand. This allows you to spin the tree as you hang lights and ornaments without damaging the floor underneath. It also makes it simple to undress the tree once the season is over. Use a tree skirt to hide the mat.

Squeeze artificial tree portions into concrete form tubes. First wrap the tree portions in twine and then slip them into the concrete sleeves.

Each tube can be stowed in attic or garage rafters, freeing up precious space.

Use empty squirt bottles to make baking and cooking easier. Pancake and cookie batters can be squirted from the containers for less mess.

Store one or two strings of lights in a plastic shopping bag to keep the strands from getting tangled. Hang the bags from a hook in a garage or stack them in a storage bin.

Use plastic zip ties to attach garland and lights to banisters. They’re easy to assemble and will not damage the banisters.

A paper towel holder can be screwed to the wall in a craft room to neatly hold spools of ribbon. Simply pull the length you need from the spool and cut for easy decorating.

Mount a tree stand to a piece of wood with screws or glue. This prevents spills from reaching the floor while stabilizing the tree.

Old maps make interesting gift wrap and are a nice change of pace from commercially produced paper or newsprint.

Wrap duct tape or another type of sticky tape around your hand. Pat over fallen pine needles that accumulate around the tree. In hard-to-reach areas, wrap the tape around a broom or a floor sweeper.

When traveling for the holidays, use a brightly colored suitcase or flashy tape to make your suitcase stand out from others at the airport.

Place hardened brown sugar in a baking dish, cover it with a moist paper towel and either microwave it on high for 20-second intervals or place it in a 300 F oven for five minutes. This will soften the sugar, making it easier to use the sugar to prepare your favorite holiday cookie recipes.

Save plastic bread ties, which can be used to make tags for the wires on certain devices.

Such ties also can be used to organize decorating components and to keep your place on a roll of tape.

Measure the inside of your picture window and construct a wooden frame to its dimensions.

Staple holiday lights to the frame and then easily slip the frame in and out of place each year.

Hang a live wreath or some boughs of evergreen in your home to give it that fresh pine scent if you have an artificial tree.

Color-code storage containers so you can easily find holiday decorations in the attic or basement.

Pack for a holiday excursion using a collapsible clothing storage hanger for closets.

Fold clothes on each fabric shelf and then collapse it into your suitcase. When you get to your destination, unfold and hang it in a closet so all of your clothes will be at the ready.

Make the holidays even more enjoyable with a variety of timesavers and clever tips.

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College is a time when many students form friendships and make memories that last a lifetime. College is also a time when students learn to stretch a dollar, and the right gift come the holiday season can have a big impact on a college student’s life. The following are a few gift ideas that may help make your favorite student’s second semester a success.

Books and supplies: Textbooks and supplies remain one of the biggest expenses for today’s college students. According to the College Board, a not-for-profit organization aimed at helping college students be successful, the average cost for books and supplies during the 2011-2012 school year was roughly $1,200.

Such an expense can be daunting for college students, and relatives can help them out come the holidays by paying for a portion or all of their second semester textbooks and supplies. Such a gesture might not make the most sentimental holiday gift, but it’s a practical present that

will go a long way toward helping a financially struggling student pay his or her bills.

Travel: College students who want to study abroad or travel for spring break must bankroll those travels themselves. In addition, some students struggle to pay for their travel back home during the holiday season or during other breaks from class. Adults who want to lend a college student a helping hand this holiday season can offer to help pay those travel costs.

Men and women who travel a lot for work might be able to use their airline miles to secure a free or low-cost ticket for the college student in their life.

Computer accessories and programs: Of course, not all gifts need to be financially oriented.

Practical gifts like computer accessories can also make a great gift for college students. Nowadays, many colleges and universities require incoming students to have their own desktop or laptop computers. Students with their own laptops

might appreciate new laptop bags that make it easier to transport their computers to and from classes and the library. In addition, some majors, such as graphic design, require that students use ever-evolving and expensive computer software.

These programs are often installed on computers in the university’s labs, but students may perform better in school if they install such programs on their own computers. Upgrading students’ computer software can save them money and help them do better in school.

Gaming consoles: Another great gift for college students is the latest video gaming console. Though such a gift might not be as virtuous as new textbooks or computer programs, a gaming console can help students unwind from the stresses of schoolwork. Today’s college students grew up with gaming consoles and many are avid gamers, so a new gaming console can also be a great way for them to make new friends who share similar interests.

Save when shopping for holiday gifts

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substantial amount of money and time.

Pay in cash. If you’re not a fan of online shopping, then use only cash when shopping at brick-and-mortar stores. Paying with cash eliminates the risk of overspending with credit cards, which will come back to haunt you in January when the bills are due. Take a predetermined amount of cash with you when shopping, and once that money is gone, then it’s time to go home.

Don’t be tempted by retailer credit cards.

Retailer credit cards can be very tempting, especially when the cashier offers an immediate 20 percent discount if you sign up for the card at the register. But that discount comes at a steep price down the road. Not only will you be receiving a bill after the holiday season, but that retailer credit card will most definitely feature a high interest rate that can negate the initial discount at the register -- unless you pay off the balance in full.

Create spending parameters with your immediate family. The economy has yet to fully recover from the downturn that began nearly half a decade ago. As a result, many people still approach the holiday shopping season with a degree of trepidation. Get together with your immediate family and establish spending parameters so no person feels like he or she has to spend too much money on holiday shopping.

Agree that no gift should cost more than $25.

Everyone will still enjoy the holiday season and one another’s company, and they won’t be forced to deal with the stress of overspending.

CONTRIBUTED TO THE BEACON BY HTTP://MCG.METROCREATIVECONNECTION.COM What would the holidays be without gatherings travelers must deal with. difficulties. Stepping up to take over hosting will of family and close friends? Everyone gets to 2. New traditions: Hosting the holidays relieve someone you love of the work, allowing reminisce around the dinner table, and distant presents an opportunity to try out your own him or her to enjoy the festivities even more. family members get to meet face-to-face instead unique ideas and establish new traditions for 5. Sense of pride: Hosting a holiday is a your family. Over time, traditions become significant undertaking, especially if you will of through social media.

In many families, holiday hosting duties are integral parts of family celebrations. A new host be following in the footsteps of a successful shared by one or two family members. Some can impart fresh concepts and breathe new life party host or hostess. This can be your proving host out of a sense of obligation, while others into the festivities. ground and a chance to show that you are up to do so because they truly love providing a place 3. Time management: Hosting the event the task. It can give you a confidence boost and for their loved ones to get together during such allows you to set the pace of the day. You may the inspiration to try other things you may have a festive time of year. Those undecided about find the holiday is less stressful when you know thought were beyond reach. whether or not to take on the role of holiday host what is coming next and can exercise control 6. Food: Hosting also allows you to customize should know there are a bevy or reasons to do over the schedule. You may not have to wake up the menu so the foods you and your immediate as early to account for travel time and could feel family like best make it on to the holiday menu. just that.

1. No travel time: If you despise sitting more relaxed.

You may open others’ eyes to new culinary treats in traffic or waiting in line at the airport for a 4. Give older relatives a break: Perhaps and show off your culinary skills along the way. delayed flight, hosting the holidays is your way Grandma or an aunt has always hosted the big Once the festivities have ended, you may even around such headaches. While you’ll certainly holidays. Over time, the scope of the event can have enough leftovers to free you from cooking deal with a number of people in your home, it prove too much for an older person, whether it’s for a few days after the holiday, giving you a will pale in comparison to the crowds holiday physical or financial constraints sparking such chance to relax and recuperate.

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6 reasons to host a holiday party

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The holiday season is filled with tradition.

Many families have their own unique customs, and those traditions create lasting memories for adults and children alike.

One such holiday tradition is shopping for gifts for family and friends. Many people enjoy holiday shopping, anxiously anticipating the look on their loved ones’ faces when they open their presents. But holiday shopping is even more

enjoyable for shoppers who can save a little extra money. The following are a few tips for shoppers who still want to give the perfect gifts but don’t want to break the bank.

Stop paying for shipping. Many people now do their holiday shopping online. Online shopping can be more convenient and give consumers more options. But some shoppers still shy away from online retailers for fear of high shipping costs. However, some retailers offer free shipping to consumers who spend a certain amount of money. In addition, savvy shoppers can scour the Internet for free shipping codes they can use at checkout. Some retailers even offer free shipping during the holiday season (last minute purchases might not be eligible) to entice customers.

Empty your wallet of gift cards. Gift cards are popular gifts come the holidays, but many gift card recipients fail to use their cards prior to their expiration dates. Many cards expire 12 months after their initial purchase date. If your wallet is filled with gift cards you received last holiday season, use them to buy gifts for friends and family now before they expire.

Make a list. Santa Claus is renowned for making a list come the holiday season, and holiday shoppers should follow his lead. Prior to your first holiday shopping trip, make a list that includes the names of friends and family to buy for and what you want to buy for each one of them. Doing so decreases the chances you’ll forget someone and be forced to drive back to the mall. Reducing the number of shopping trips you have to make will conserve fuel and save you a

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Learn the dos and don’ts of holiday shopping

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Thanks to sales featuring heavily discounted items, millions of people wait to start their holiday shopping until the season hits full swing. But in spite of such bargains, overextending budgets during the holiday season is too tempting for many shoppers to resist. However, shoppers need not risk financial peril if they shop smartly and heed some dos and don’ts of holiday shopping.

Do set a budget. Establish what you can afford to spend on gifts and other seasonal trimmings early on. The National Retail Federation estimates that the average consumer will spend around $700 come the holiday season. But not every person needs to be a big spender. The “buy now, pay later” mentality that credit cards offer lands many shoppers in trouble, a sticky situation many only notice once the first bill comes due. If you cannot afford to pay your entire credit card balance off once the bill arrives, you face steep interest charges that can quickly add up. Instead, pick a set spending limit and keep to it no matter how tempting it may seem to overspend with a credit card.

Don’t be fooled by false sales. Retailers understand that a good advertised deal lures

shoppers into their stores. As a result, some retailers mark up the cost of certain items in order to slash the prices for holiday sales. Even if you are saving the assumed 50 to 60 percent, the final cost of the item still may be higher than normal. Comparison shop and do your research so you don’t fall victim to clever pricing.

Do schedule time for shopping. Hectic schedules sometimes result in last-minute shopping that leads to impulse purchases.

Schedule some distraction-free time for your holiday shopping so you’re less likely to rush into purchases before thinking them through.

Don’t double buy. Some shoppers use the holidays as an excuse to buy more for themselves than the people on their lists. While it’s tempting to treat yourself come the holiday season, this is a great and quick way to deplete your budget. If you plan on using holiday deals to supplement your own wardrobe or household needs, reduce your spending the rest of the year and save money for year-end purchases.

Do collect coupons and look for purchasing incentives. Comparison shopping not only helps you get the best price, but also it can shed

light on coupons, shipping discounts and other incentives that lower the overall cost of products.

Search online for Web sites that publish coupons and codes for online discounts, including free shipping. Join a store’s marketing list and receive emails with deals sent directly to your inbox.

Don’t be afraid to delay some purchases if need be. If hosting a post-holiday gathering where gifts will be exchanged, it’s perfectly acceptable to delay buying those gifts until after Christmas or Chanukah, when many items can be found at even lower prices. Many stores reduce prices on merchandise come Dec. 26, so you can wait until after the holidays to shop for items that will be exchanged with distant friends and relatives.

This enables you to save more money and use any received gift cards toward shopping.

Do keep a level head. Some people forget the true meaning of the season is spending time with loved ones. Getting swept away by shopping and worrying about deadlines can make the season less enjoyable. Don’t allow the stress of holiday shopping to compromise an otherwise joyous time of year.

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As the cost of living continues to rise, holiday shopping also has become much more expensive in recent years, and it can be easy for shoppers to overextend themselves financially come the holiday season.

According to a recent Gallup poll, the average American plans to spend around $790 per holiday season, although many go above and beyond that amount. Starting off the new year in debt is a recipe for stress, which can have negative repercussions for the rest of the year.

In addition to overspending during the holiday season, many people stretch themselves thin on Valentine’s Day, birthdays, and Mother’s Day and Father’s Day. One way to make shopping more manageable is to establish spending limits that dictate how much each family member can spend on each gift he or she buys.

It is important to exercise tact when approaching the subject of gift limits. Discuss the topic with friends and family members with whom you usually exchange gifts long before the holiday season.

Agree on a reasonable amount of money each person will spend on gifts. If necessary, ask everyone to write down a figure and then determine the average, using that figure as your spending limit.

Establishing a spending limit makes it easier for every family to afford their holiday purchases.

If there are six people on your shopping list and you’re spending $50 per person, you know to allocate $300 for gifts. Saving and budgeting can be adjusted accordingly.

When no such limit is established, you may go overboard to compensate, even if you cannot afford to do so.

Another way to save money is to suggest giving the gift of experiences rather than tangible and potentially costly gifts. For example, take a loved one out for dinner or suggest going on vacation together to make better use of your collective funds. A well-timed extended family vacation in lieu of gift exchanges may alleviate the stress of the holiday season, much of which can be traced to holiday spending.

Establishing a gift-giving strategy and budget for each person to work with can make for a more peaceful holiday season by freeing up time to spend with loved ones and placing the focus on family instead of shopping.

Make guests feel comfortable at your holiday party

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salad or preparing cocktails, for last so you can pay some attention to early arriving guests.

Keep in mind that food should look inviting, but don’t feel pressured to make food look like something out of a cookbook. Some guests may even be hesitant to be the first to dig in if dishes appear too perfect. Arrange foods in such a way that guests won’t be afraid to dig in and ruin the impressive display.

Play soft music and make sure snacks are available before guests arrive. This way the first guests are not walking into a house where they can hear a pin drop. Set up appetizers around seating so that smaller groups of people can mingle.

Take time to chat with different guests throughout the evening. This allows you to introduce people who might not know one another, and such introductions can make guests feel more at ease. Don’t forget to toast or thank your guests for coming and show them your appreciation by sending them home with a small party favor. A token of appreciation mixed with having a fun and festive night will ensure guests look forward to your future parties.

Transporting holiday gifts safely and effectively this season CONTRIBUTED TO THE BEACON BY HTTP://MCG.METROCREATIVECONNECTION.COM Items that will be shipped internationally should include a detailed description as well as the value of the package. Presents under a certain value may be duty-free or tax-exempt. Check with customs to get a better idea of the shipping regulations.

Airlines have specific regulations in place regarding which items can and cannot be brought on planes, at least inside of the cabin. Thanks to increased security measures, restrictions are greater than they once were. Transportation Security Administration officers may have to inspect items for safety purposes. It may be better to leave gifts unwrapped and then wrap them after the flight to avoid hassles during the screening process.

Liquids, including foods, may need to be put in a checked bag if they exceed 3.4 ounces. Consider shipping delicate items ahead of time if you are concerned about breakage.

If a holiday road trip is in your future, space constraints may require you to be a little creative when packing the car. Shop for smaller gifts, including gift cards, which are easier to transport.

Advise family and friends that you will have limited space so they should not go overboard

with regard to gifts given to you in return.

Heed safety precautions and do not obscure driver visibility in the car by stacking presents too high. Also, secure boxes and packages in the car so they do not slide or move around.

Anything that is not secured can become airborne in the event of a collision, increasing the risk for injury. Items placed on roof racks should be tightly secured so they don’t fall off and present a hazard.

Those who will be traveling for the holidays should plan how to transport any gifts they will be bringing along long before the day comes to hit the road.

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As families spread out across the country and even across the globe, the holidays can become a little more difficult to navigate. According to AAA, a federation of motor clubs throughout the United States, roughly 90 million Americans will travel 50 miles or more for year-end holidays.

Families that are spread out must decide where to spend the holidays together. But in some cases, families can’t all be together, so celebrations must be handled remotely and gifts shipped to waiting recipients.

Shopping for gifts may have taken some time, but now you will have to figure out how to get those gifts where they need to go. The following are some pointers for holiday celebrants who are driving, flying, taking a bus, or shipping gifts.

If the goal is to purchase and ship gifts near and far, starting early has its advantages.

Thousands upon thousands of cards and packages are shipped each day during the holiday season. In 2013, shipping giant UPS projected 132 million deliveries during the last week before Christmas, and actual figures exceeded those expectations.

Many shipping services will get packages to recipients on time, but customers can help them along by sending them several weeks before the holidays. Shipping later in the season may incur additional fees for priority shipping. Always check sellers purchase-by dates to ensure items will arrive on time.

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Party hosts and hostesses may feel the stirrings of butterflies in their stomachs in anticipation of a special event. It’s natural to have nerves when inviting others into your home or planning an event at a restaurant or catering hall, as you no doubt want everything to go well and may feel

the pressure to impress.

Although hosts may be feeling some mild trepidation, they should recognize that guests may be a little nervous about attending an event as well. When attending a party, guests may not know what to expect or who else may be on the guest list. To ensure everyone has a good time, hosts can take steps to make guests feel more comfortable and at home.

When attempting to make guests comfortable, lead by example.

Guests will sense your energy when they walk through the door.

If you are agitated or appear stressed, guests may feel that way as well. Project a calm and inviting spirit and greet guests with a smile. This will help set the tone for the rest of the festivities.

Get as much done as possible before guests arrive so they’re not walking in on the set-up of the party. Leave a trivial task, such as mixing a

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Planning the holiday meal is easy with these tips

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Holiday meal themes There are plenty of food ideas for the holidays. Here are menu themes for your next event.

Appetizers: Host a cocktail party using finger foods as the main course. Anything can be turned into finger foods, with small dishes and bite-size spoonfuls to offer a variety of tastes.

Asian: Asian fare has become quite popular, and if it’s your family’s favorite, why not offer Asian-themed menu items for guests.

Italian: Family favorites, Italian dishes are quite popular and can often easily be increased to feed a crowd. Pastas are quite easy to prepare quickly or in advance.

American: Traditional dishes tend to be those foods best associated with American cooking. Chicken, turkey and roast beef are all meals that can be the perfect fit for the holidays.

Perhaps the most anticipated aspect of the holiday season is the lavish holiday meal. Many people look forward to the food just as much as they look forward to the festivities. This could be why the average person gains a pound or two from the period of Thanksgiving up until New Year’s Day.

Planning a holiday gathering and meal can be stressful for hosts or hostesses. There seems to be a lot of pressure placed on the person in charge. However, establishing a wonderful and stress-free meal is possible with a few easy-tofollow tips.

Create a meal concept. Holiday meals can be traditional or avant garde. There are many options from which to choose, but one thing to keep in mind is to select foods that go together.

Those new to holiday hosting may want to stick with items that are well known and expected, such as turkey and trimmings. Those who want to experiment may want to introduce one or two new dishes into the mix. Food choices should be about what your guests will want to eat and not about which items will ensure a spectacle.

Keep preparation time in mind. Another thing to consider when planning the meal is the amount of time you have for food preparation and cooking. The holidays are a busy time of the year, and work and social engagements may continue up until the eleventh hour. Choose foods that can be prepared in advance and heated on the holiday if you’re time-pressed. Or simply choose easyto-make dishes that won’t take much time.

Compile a shopping list. Once foods are selected, review all recipes and make a list of the ingredients you will need. This will serve as a shopping list to take to the store. Also see which items you have on hand in the pantry. Look at expiration dates and be sure that everything is top quality. If in doubt, add it to your shopping list. Make a list of things that can be bought in advance (paper products, coffee, linens, etc.) and other items that need to be checked off closer to

the actual holiday. Cross off each item once it is purchased.

Create a timetable. Make a schedule or use a calendar to schedule when each component of the meal and other preparations will be made.

This way you ensure you will stay on track and have everything done by the actual holiday.

Ask for help. If you find that time will be short, delegate some jobs to others. For example, if a grandmother or aunt is known for her prized potatoes or pies, ask her to make that item. Some hosts and hostesses turn the holiday meal into a pot luck where everyone is encouraged to bring one item and the host simply provides the main dish. This can cut down on the work involved and make others feel they’ve contributed to the sentimental holiday meal.

Go easy on yourself. While not everything will work out exactly as you expected, chances are little glitches will not even be noticed by guests unless you point them out. And even if they are noticed, these are close friends and family who will not judge small mistakes.

Make time for socialization. Too often holiday hosts and hostesses worry so much about impressing guests with lavish foods and festivities that they fail to enjoy the actual day with their guests. Leave time to sit and chat and, most importantly, relax.

The holidays are a time of enjoyment.

Ensuring the meal can be as stress-free as possible will go a long way to helping hosts and hostesses enjoy the season as well.

Shepherd’s Christian Assembly donates 100 turkeys to WestRock employees DONATING TURKEYS Michele Shirer, pictured right, has been donating turkeys and hams to Shepherd’s Christian Assembly for many years. This year, she donated 100 turkeys, which went to employees of WestRock for Thanksgiving. Shirer is pictured here with John Cullison, chief steward of WestRock. BEACON PHOTO BY BETH SCOTT Christian Assembly in Coshocton for many years.

This year, when she contacted Pastor Starkey Lawrence and said she would be bringing 100 14 lbs. turkeys to Coshocton, Lawrence more than welcomed the influx COSHOCTON - Michele Shirer, manager of of turkeys and immediately Molina Healthcare from Columbus, Ohio, has had the idea to donate not only the turkeys, but been donating turkeys and hams to Shepherd’s potatoes, corn, and a box of stuffing to employees

BY BETH SCOTT of WestRock for their Thanksgiving dinner.

Lawrence said that 93 individuals signed up to receive the turkeys and many expressed that they were extremely grateful for the gift. After employees received the meal, they had the option to pray at an alter set up at the front of the church.

“We are very grass rooted,” said Shirer. “We believe in community, and Shepherd’s Christian Assembly has always been very close to my heart. When I contacted Starkey about donating the turkeys, it was a no-brainer. I know how much the church gives back to the community.

When you work in the area, all of southeastern Ohio is your back yard.”

Shepherd’s Christian Assembly serves lunch each weekday from 11 a.m. – 1:30 p.m. and has been doing so for the past nine years. The church receives donations from farmers, other churches, and community members.

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How to maintain workout routines during the holidays

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CONTRIBUTED TO THE BEACON BY HTTP://MCG.METROCREATIVECONNECTION.COM on some days, don’t skip the workout simply because it’s shorter. Make the most of that time by targeting larger, core muscles.

Change your schedule. You may need to alter your daily schedule to fit in gym workouts or other exercise. Try getting up earlier and heading out prior to work or school. This will open up time throughout the rest of your day, and you can use that time to meet the demands of the holiday season.

Get a trainer or a workout buddy. It’s far easier to blow off a workout when you go it alone. However, if you have a workout partner who is counting on you and vice versa, you may be less inclined to miss a workout even when you’re not especially motivated to hit the gym.

Try new activities. Workouts need not be limited to exercises in the gym. Plenty of activities work the body and burn calories. Sledding, ice skating, skiing, and snowboarding are just a few winter sports that can help you stay in shape.

Choose a hotel with a pool or gym. If holiday travel is on your itinerary, select a hotel that has fitness equipment. This way you can keep up with your routine. Even swimming a few laps in an indoor pool can provide a cardiovascular workout while you’re on vacation. Remember, it only takes a two-week break from exercise to experience a fitness regression, and you will only have to work harder to get back to your current

fitness level if you let exercise slide too long.

Add short, high-intensity exercises. Burn more calories in less time with high-intensity workouts. This way you won’t need to schedule as much time for workouts but will still get the benefit of exercise.

Transform chores into exercise opportunities.

See that vacuum cleaner, rake or broom as a piece of exercise equipment. While cleaning up for holiday company, turn on the radio and get your heart pumping, too. Do leg raises while you’re preparing meals or do some pushups off of the kitchen counter.

Use your bodyweight. Even if you can’t make it to the gym, rely on your own body resistance for a thorough workout. Pushups, squats, burpees, mountain climbers, jumping rope, and lunges are some exercises that rely on bodyweight for effectiveness.

Periodically exercise during the day. If you have a few free moments here and there during the day, use these opportunities to exercise. By the end of the day, you may find you squeezed in an entire workout’s worth of exercise over the course of several 10-minute intervals.

Exercise and fitness do not have to play second fiddle to other holiday activities. Make time for workouts, and you will be ahead of the game come the new year.

Sugar is your enemy during the holiday season

BY BETH SCOTT be as healthy as they are at other times of the year is due to lack of Vitamin D, which is found in sunlight.

According to Strandwitz, the recommended daily intake of Vitamin D3 is 5,000 international units. He recommends during winter months to take that amount twice daily. Vitamin D3 can help delay age-related dementia in senior citizens and is especially important to take if you are on cholesterol-lowering drug as that can deplete your body of Vitamin D3. Talk to your family physician to see what Vitamin D3 regime is right for you.

BETH@COSHOCTONCOUNTYBEACON.COM

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Most people have a hard time maintaining a healthy diet around the holiday season. With all the sweets, carb-loaded foods, and holiday cocktails, it’s hard to eat healthy. Following some suggestions from Bill Strandwitz, clinical nutritionist at Marilyn’s Natural Foods, can help you maintain a healthy weight through the holiday season and into the new year.

“Most people gain weight over the season because they eat the wrong foods, mostly sugar and carbs, which turn to sugar,” he said. “Sugar

requires insulin to metabolize and when insulin is used over and over again, it can lead to diabetes. Most of the sugar you eat is stored as belly fat.”

Strandwitz advised people to stay away from juices and alcohol this season as they instantly turn to sugar.

He also recommended four types of sweeteners that are less destructive on the body than regular sugar: Stevia, Coconut Sugar, Light Agave Nectar, and Xylitol.

“I really like the light agave nectar because it doesn’t change flavor of what you’re putting it on,” said Strandwitz. “Xylitol is another safe sugar that also helps against tooth decay.”

Strandwitz cautions against eating everything your body craves.

“If you eat food through craving, you’re not getting a healthy diet,” he said. “Also, you need to really be careful of any sort of drinks you consume because they turn to sugar quickly and get stored as belly fat.”

He said another reason why people may not

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Between decking the halls, visiting family and attending holiday parties, it may seem like there is little time to maintain a workout routine during the holiday season. While the holiday season is an especially busy time of year, men and women who plan and stay dedicated to their routines do not need to let their health fall by the wayside until January.

Several studies show that people can gain anywhere from one pound to a few pounds between Thanksgiving and Christmas. Although that might not seem like a lot of weight, a report in The New England Journal of Medicine noted that many people never lose the weight they put on during the holidays.

Those who struggle to keep the weight off understand the importance of maintaining both a consistent fitness schedule and healthy eating habits. This may be challenging when the rich foods and parties synonymous with the holiday season are around to threaten healthy habits.

Here’s how to stay on course.

Establish a regular exercise date. Treat exercise as any other obligation on the calendar.

Make it a necessity and not a luxury. Schedule time for workouts, even if it means removing something else from your agenda.

Don’t worry about the length of your workouts. If you’re accustomed to an hour-long workout but cannot fit in more than 20 minutes

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Proper etiquette for gift-giving this holiday season

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The rules of etiquette have loosened a bit from centuries past. No longer are people held accountable for the slightest misstep, and sometimes the rule-breakers are revered.

However, when it comes to holiday gifting, erring on the side of caution and following proper etiquette can make exchanging gifts go more smoothly.

Being considerate when gifting helps make the holidays enjoyable and as stress-free as possible. Some may find it unfortunate that so much pressure is placed on giving gifts this time of year. When exchanging, heed these suggestions.

Gift-giving is about the recipient and not you as the giver. The idea is to create that warm and fuzzy feeling for the person on the receiving

end of the gift. Think about the person’s interests and find a gift that pertains to these interests. It may not be the easiest to find a rare book or those collectible golf clubs, but putting forth the effort will mean more to the person getting the gift.

Don’t up the ante.

When exchanging gifts with a person, do not try to anticipate what he or she will spend and then go above that price. This may come off as petty and make the other person feel uncomfortable.

Instead, choose a price that you can readily afford and find the nicest thing within that range. If a person with whom you hadn’t anticipated exchanging gifts gives you something, simply offer thanks and don’t feel uncomfortable that you do not have something to offer in return.

Gift receipts are very thoughtful. Including a gift receipt with your gift tells the recipient that you tried to find something that he or she will enjoy, but that you’re comfortable with them returning the gift if it’s not just right. Again, this conveys your feelings for the recipient. Do not, however, use gift receipts as a “get out of jail free” pass. That means, don’t simply grab anything off the rack, attach a gift receipt and attempt to pass it off as a meaningful gift.

Do not e-mail thank you notes. If you are not

able to thank a person in person for a gift, it is in better taste to send a hand-written note than to fire off a quick e-mail. While writing letters has become a lost art, a hand-written thank you note stands out and shows how much you appreciate the gift.

It’s unnecessary to give your boss a gift.

Gifting your boss may come across like you are trying to win favor. It also may create a competition within the office. Stick to gifting colleagues, but leave the boss out of the holiday pool.

Gift cards do not break etiquette rules.

Although gift cards may seem like the easy way out of gifting, they’ve become more acceptable and popular. If you want to personalize a gift card, try using a photo or special memory that correlates to the gift card. Otherwise, package the gift card with a few inexpensive items to create a gift basket.

When in doubt, stick with non-intimate gifts.

Perfume, cologne, intimate apparel and similar items say that you know a person on a deeper level and are extremely personal. For friends and acquaintances, stick with safer gifts that do not give off intimate undertones.

Don’t regift. Whenever possible, graciously accept gifts and do not try to pass them off as your own to other people. If caught, you will be more embarrassed than if you had not given a gift at all.

Following a few guidelines on gift-giving etiquette can help to make the holidays even happier.

Manage credit during the Christmas season CONTRIBUTED TO THE BEACON BY HTTP://MCG.METROCREATIVECONNECTION.COM Holiday shopping takes up a considerable amount of time between Thanksgiving and Christmas Day. Shoppers who scour in-store and online retailers in the hunt for the perfect gift annually spend hundreds of billions of dollars during such pursuits, and what they swipe when making purchases could go a long way toward how their new year’s begin.

Overreliance on credit cards to make holiday purchases can prove crippling once the calendar turns to January. According to an analysis of statistics from the Federal Reserve, the average household consumer debt in the United States was more than $15,700 as of June of 2015. That’s roughly onetenth the average mortgage debt, suggesting that many consumers are relying too heavily on credit cards when making their purchases.

This holiday season, consumers concerned about swiping their credit cards too often can take the following steps to more effectively manage their credit.

Know what you can afford. Swiping now and dealing with the consequences in January is

a recipe for a rocky new year. In some cases, it can benefit consumers to make purchases with their credit cards as opposed to their debit cards.

For instance, when making purchases online, it’s often safer to use a credit card rather than a debit card linked to your checking and savings accounts, as using the latter can make your life’s savings vulnerable to hackers. But don’t start swiping your credit cards until you know what you can afford. Examine your finances and only use your credit card if you know you can repay the balance before it incurs any interest. If you can’t pay the balance in full at the time the payment is due, use a debit card so you are only spending money you already have and not taking out what amounts to a high-interest loan on your holiday purchases.

Resist retailer cards. When making in-store purchases, chances are the cashier will invite you to sign up for a retailer credit card, even offering an immediate discount if you do so at the registers. While this discount may seem too tempting to ignore, keep in mind that many

retailer credit cards come with considerably higher interest fees on balances that are not paid off in full. So that discount at the register may end up costing you more money if you get to January and can’t pay the balance in its entirety.

Try not to juggle cards. Many shoppers juggle multiple cards to avoid building up too big a balance on one particular card during the holiday season. But that’s an easy way to lose track of how much you have spent. Rather than juggling cards, use only the one with the lowest interest rate.

Monitor your balances. Swiping a credit card is easy and hassle-free, and many retailers both big and small now accept various types of cards.

Keep a close eye on your balances, checking them online after each shopping trip. This can help you control your spending and also can alert you to any fraudulent activity. Shoppers who must use their credit cards this holiday season can employ several strategies to ensure they don’t dig themselves into a financial hole by the end of December.

Volunteers enjoy annual community dinner

STUDENT HELPER Pictured serving up a meal at the annual Thanksgiving Community dinner at Coshocton High School is Amia Woods. “It’s fun to see the community come together and to help everyone out,” said the CHS junior. Her classmate Reanna Ackley also enjoyed spending her evening giving back to the community and so did sophomore Abby Zimomra. “It’s nice seeing all the people here,” Zimomra said. BEACON PHOTO BY JOSIE SELLERS

Stress-free holiday hosting tips CONTRIBUTED TO THE BEACON BY HTTP://MCG.METROCREATIVECONNECTION.COM Plan well in advance. The earlier you begin planning the party, the less stress you’re likely to feel as a host. Certain items for the party, like decorations and certain snacks and beverages, have no expiration dates, so buy such items well in advance of the party. This leads to one less task to tackle in the weeks and days leading up to the party. Planning early also affords you ample time coordinate with guests and decide who will be responsible for certain party tasks. Planning a party at the last minute can be stressful, so if you know you will be handling hosting duties this holiday season, start preparing for the party as soon as possible.

Hire a cleaning service. One of the more difficult parts of holiday hosting is cleaning the house before guests arrive. A thorough house cleaning can take up a substantial amount of time, which tends to be hard to come by during the holiday season. To avoid a late night cleaning session or the need to spend a valuable weekend afternoon hard at work around the house, hire a cleaning service to come and clean your house in the days before the party. Such services can clean your home in a fraction of the time it might take you to do so on your own, and this removes one of the more time-consuming and arduous tasks from your to-do list.

Have a theme for the party. Holiday hosts may worry about how to entertain their guests

throughout the party. A theme party makes it easier to entertain guests, who can show up decked out in holiday pajamas or sweaters or bring along a favorite unique compilation of holiday songs for a sing-along. Such themes set a tone for the party right away and often make it easier for guests to unwind immediately. Seek suggestions for a theme from your guests to make the party even more fun.

Pass the buck. Hosting a holiday dinner party? Consider passing the hosting duties on to a local restaurant, especially if your friends and family members are on board with the idea. If your schedule is especially hectic this holiday season, then move the party from your home to a local restaurant, where the staff can worry about accommodating your guests and you can simply relax and have a good time with your loved ones.

When choosing a restaurant, look for one with a menu that features something for everyone.

Entree selections should include a pasta dish, a beef dish, a seafood dish, a poultry dish, and vegetarian fare.

Holiday hosting is meant to be fun, but hosts often find themselves scrambling to prepare for the party as it draws closer. Planning early, seeking help and input from your guests and delegating certain tasks can help ensure hosts have as festive a time as their friends and family members.

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Gatherings with friends and family are a big part of the holiday season. Many people travel during the holidays to spend time with distant relatives, but those same people often want to gather with those loved ones who live nearby as well. Thus an abundance of gatherings come in December, when office parties, dinners with family and festivities with friends have a way of dominating the last five weeks of the year.

All of those gatherings translate to a lot of holiday hosting, and hosts can easily feel overwhelmed as they try to juggle hosting duties with everything else that comes along during this time of year. The following are a few steps holiday hosts can take to make hosting a lot less hectic and a lot more fun.

Enlist help. Just because a holiday party is at your home does not mean others can’t pitch in or will be unwilling to help. If you plan to decorate for the party, invite a friend over to assist. When hosting a holiday dinner party, ask guests to bring certain items to save you some work. Ask one guest to bring some dessert, saving you the time it takes to visit the local bakery or bake your own desserts, and ask others to provide side dishes.

This drastically reduces the time it will take you to shop for groceries and cook the meal, leaving you more time to spend with friends and family, both during the party and in the days leading up to the festivities.

NOVEMBER 25, 2015 JOYFUL HOLIDAYS CLASSIFIED HOTLINE 622-4ADS

VOLUNTEERS The 12th annual Thanksgiving Community Dinner was held Nov. 19 at Coshocton High School. Pictured helping to serve food are Ross Nelson, Stacey Ganz and Amy Borton. “I’ve done this every year,” Borton said. “It’s a fun time and great to see the kids helping and the community come out.” The numerous volunteers and donations from businesses make the event possible. Cathy Waibel, who organizes the dinner, said they served 725 dinners last year and she believed they served that many this year if not more. BEACON PHOTO BY JOSIE SELLERS

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