Wishes guide

Holiday Happenings & Festive Gift Guide

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TABLE OF CONTENTS JIM WILSON PUBLISHER RON LEE DIRECTOR OF SALES & MARKETING JOANNE R. PATRANELLA DISPLAY ADVERTISING MANAGER

Wishes : HO LIDAY HAPPE N IN G S AN D FE S T IVE G IF T G UID E

PATRICK DANIELCZYK CREATIVE SERVICES SUPERVISOR BILLY MAU SPECIAL PROJECTS EDITOR SAL VELASCO SECTION DESIGNER

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HOLIDAY PARADE GIVE THE GIFT OF HOLIDAY MEMORIES HOLIDAY MAGIC WHITE CHRISTMAS HOST A SAFE AND SOUND HOLIDAY PARTY DREAMING OF A ‘GREEN’ HOLIDAY DECORATING THE YARD FOR THE HOLIDAYS ARTIFICIAL VS. NATURAL CHRISTMAS IN THE PARK TURKEY LEFTOVERS SECRETS OF GRACIOUS GIVING HISTORY OF THE CHRISTMAS TREE EGGNOG A HOLIDAY TRADITION FINDING THE PERFECT GIFT FOR ... YOU

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This year’s Bryan-College Station Christmas Parade should be plenty of fun as participants will be “Rocking Around Christmas” as this year’s theme.

Penny Zent, parade chairwoman, said she is excited to see what people do with the theme concept.

“We want to always choose themes that leave a lot open to interpretation,” Zent said.

“Naturally most people will think of the song ‘Rocking Around the Christmas Tree,’ but there are all kinds of ways to play with the idea.

It’s a fun theme and I look forward to seeing what kind of entries we get.”

Last year’s parade was limited to 80 entries, but Zent said there will be no cap this year, which could lead to big turnout. The 2008 parade had more than 120 participants.

Also back this year are equestrian entries, good news for groups like the Ross Volunteers and others that use horses.

While the entry list was not complete in time for this story, Zent said there are many local groups that have already committed.

The Ross Volunteers and Fightin’ Texas Aggie Band will represent Texas A&M. All three high schools will also be represented with the Rudder, Bryan High and A&M Consolidated marching bands, and the City of Bryan has confirmed they will have a float this year.

The parade will follow its traditional route starting at parking lot 50 at University Drive. The parade will travel east on University to Texas Avenue. The parade will then turn north on Texas Avenue

and continue to the ending point at Sulphur Springs Avenue in Bryan. Zent said the parade should last about two and a half to three hours with the changes made for this year.

Spectators are encouraged to find a good spot to watch the parade and get into the holiday spirit.

The parade is also judging floats in a brand new category with an award for the most environmentally friendly parade entry.

“We’re excited to have the new category with everyone talking about going green,” Zent said. “We’re going to have a special judge that is a green expert to choose our winner in that category.

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Holiday Parade Parade Parade Parade Parade

For more information on this year’s Bryan-College Station Christmas Parade, visit www.bcsparade.com.

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Use these ideas as inspiration for giving holiday gifts with a hint of nostalgia.

(ARA)- Some say that the spirit of the holidays isn’t what it used to be.

The overwhelming task of buying gifts for everyone in the family can make you feel like it’s all about what’s under the tree. This year, when you’re making your gift list, think of presents that inspire treasured memories and create new ones for the future. By giving the gift of memories, you’ll be bringing the true spirit of the holidays back to your celebrations.

• Whether it’s the smell of baking cookies that takes you back to wintry days spent in Grandma’s kitchen or the spicy fragrance of cinnamon that brings to mind sipping spiced apple cider around the fireplace, at this time of year, it’s no surprise that smell is the sense most closely tied to memories. Bringing back those memories can be as simple as lighting scented candles. Whether you light them in your own home or give them as presents to friends and family, candles are a great way to give a gift that inspires memories.

The holidays are a time of traditions, from the food that graces the tables to the movies you watch each year, to the places you travel to meet family and friends.

Rather than running from store to store picking up the latest gadgets and fads, take a few moments to plan out your list based on memories that you’ve shared with each person to whom you’re giving a gift.

• Gathering together to watch holiday movies is a cozy and festive way to celebrate the season, but it can be difficult to get

everyone together at the exact time that a movie is going to be aired on television. And the true classics of the season aren’t played in theaters. Give a gift of a group of holiday movie DVDs that have stood the test of time and you’ll bring back memories of past holiday movie get-togethers as well as passing on the tradition to the next generation.

in a kit and let her create a scrapbook that will be exactly what she wants.

• Everyone treasures the house they grew up in, even long after they’ve moved away. To bring back the memories of growing up and holidays in your first home, commission a portrait of the house you grew up in.

It can be created from old photographs, and it makes a wonderful gift for siblings and parents. It’ll be the perfect conversation piece at your holiday celebration - light scented candles that bring to mind the traditions you remember and take the time to let everyone talk about their favorite childhood reminiscences.

• Photos are one of the best ways to take a quick glimpse into the past. With digital photography’s rise in popularity, the old photo prints of the past often languish in a closet, mostly forgotten. Give them new life by creating a scrapbook of holiday memories, incorporating old photos, holiday cards and letters.

If your gift recipient is the crafty type, simply gather all the elements together

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Holiday Magic Bryan families can look forward to a white Christmas this year as they kick off their holiday season with Holiday Magic, a fun filled event held to bring the community together and celebrate the season.

Did you know…

Kwanzaa is celebrated daily from December 26 to January 1.

Kwanzaa (Swahili for “fresh fruits”) is based on an African harvest festival.

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The Bryan Parks and Recreation Department will host the 11th annual Holiday Magic celebration on Dec. 2 from 5:30-8:30 p.m. at the Sue Haswell Memorial Park.

The karamu, or feast, is held on December 31 and one of the high points of Kwanzaa.

This year’s Holiday Magic will feature numerous activities to bring in the holiday season. The event will have live entertainment, free hot chocolate, cookies and lots of bright Christmas lights.

Kwanzaa was created

by Maulana Karenga, a professor of black studies at California State University at Long Beach, in 1966. It is a nonreligious celebration of family and social values for African American families.

Frosty’s Funland will provide plenty for the kids to do this year. There will be a Polar Express, rock wall and bounce houses to play on. Children will also be able to write letters to Santa, make their own Christmas tree ornament and color the holiday mural. If the kids have sledding in mind, they can do so on Arctic Hill, the only snow covered hill in town.

Gifts are given mainly to children, but must

The colors of Kwanzaa are black, red and green and can be utilized in decorations for Kwanzaa.

Also decorations should include traditional African items, i.e., African baskets, cloth patterns, art objects, harvest symbols, etc.

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All that activity might wear kids out, but they can get their energy back with free hot chocolate and cookies courtesy of the Bryan WalMart SuperCenter. They can enjoy their refreshments while watching performances from local schools and organizations. There will also be drawings for prizes ranging from restaurant gift certificates to his and her bicycles.

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By BILLY MAU Special Projects Editor A holiday classic comes to the stage in Bryan this year as The Theatre Company presents “White Christmas” as this year’s holiday program.

“White Christmas” tells the story of Bob Wallace and Phil Davis, a pair of World War II veterans who make it big as entertainers after the war. They are joined by Betty and Judy, a pair of sisters they meet while auditioning performers, and the four of them head up to Vermont where they find Bob and Phil’s old General from the war. The General is running a struggling inn in Vermont and the guys decide to help the General out by putting on a special production of their popular Broadway shoe, “Playing Around.”

him justice.”

“People that loved the movie are going to know right where they are,” Wilson said. “But there are plenty of surprises, too. It’s just a great holiday show.”

“Her performance definitely has an impact on how I prepared for this character,” Hoernis said. “I am trying to play Betty very similar to the way she was portrayed by Clooney. I know many people come to shows expecting them to be exactly like the movie, so I want to bring that same tone to the character.”

Playing the lead roles in the local production are Matt Kriger as Bob Wallace and Melissa Hoernis as Betty. Both were happy to be playing characters made famous by Bing Crosby and Rosemary Clooney, respectively.

“Bing Crosby is an icon,” Kriger said. “Every scene and song I do will be compared to his performance, which means I have to practice harder than I ever have to do

Hoernis said she has enjoyed preparing for the role of Betty because the character is sweet, yet a little sarcastic too. Like Kriger, she knows she will be compared to the original performance of Clooney.

“White Christmas” was first adapted for the stage in 2004. Since then it has played on Broadway during the holidays and gone on a national tour. This is the first time the play has come to Bryan/College

Station. Wilson said that choreographer Catherine Pope and costume designer Linda Bates have been hard at work to help the show make a good first impression with the local audience.

“We’re going all out because this is the first time it’s been done here,” Wilson said. “There is lots of dancing in the show. Catherine Pope has come up with some great stuff with the choreography and the costumes are very exciting.”

This year’s holiday production follows last year’s successful run of “It’s a Wonderful Life.” Wilson said many of the people he spoke with last year after the show mentioned how they were raised watching “White Christmas,” which is one reason why he was glad to see the show come available in time for this year.

doing the Christmas shows because it gets everyone in the Christmas spirit and the audience is also in the same spirit. Hoernis said she enjoys the holiday shows because they have such great messages.

“Last Christmas I performed in ‘It’s a Wonderful Life,’ and have since decided that I love Christmas shows,” she said.

“Not only does it get you in the Christmas spirit, but the shows themselves are so uplifting and cheerful that it can’t help but spill over into the cast. Also, everyone brings baked goods to snack on during rehearsals, so yum!”

The Theatre Company will put on “White Christmas” for three weekends. Shows will play December 3-5, 10-12 and 17-19.

Wilson said he enjoys S U N DAY, N OVE MB E R 21, 2010

Filled with songs by Irving

Berlin and unforgettable costumes, the film version of “White Christmas” has long been a holiday favorite.

Theatre Company director Randy Wilson said the stage version of the show delivers that same Christmas magic in a live setting.

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Wishes : HO LIDAY HAPPE N IN G S AN D FE S T IVE G IF T G UID E

Host a safe and sound holiday party (MS) – Few times of the year are simultaneously as festive and dangerous as the winter holiday season.

With the celebratory nature of the holiday season often comes the increased risk for accidents, particularly on the nation’s roadways, where impaired drivers often take to the streets after overindulging at holiday parties.

when they might not know everyone at a given event. But close-knit groups don’t need such devices to loosen their inhibitions, and are more likely to drink responsibly as a result.

• Greet guests and take their car keys at the door.

It’s always polite for hosts to greet guests at the door.

But it’s even more necessary to do so at holiday parties.

When greeting, hosts can gauge whether their guests have gotten a head start on the festivities and can also politely ask guests to hand over their car keys.

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, in 2008 (the latest figures available) more than 11,000 people were killed in drunk driving crashes involving a driver with an illegal blood alcohol content (.08 or higher). In almost all of these cases, the fatalities could have been avoided.

• Invite guests who know one another. Guests who know each other well are less likely to rely on alcohol to break the ice. Alcohol lowers people’s inhibitions, making them more comfortable in 8 social situations, particularly

• Stay sober. Hosts are responsible for their guests and their guests’ safety.

Regardless of local host laws, staying sober is the only way hosts can accurately determine if a guest is capable of driving or needs a ride home. What’s more, hosts must stay sober in the event a guest does need a ride home.

• Feed the guests. Food should not be a replacement for drinking responsibly, but food does slow the absorption of alcohol and helps fill guests up, making it less likely guests will drink to excess.

For holiday hosts, the safety concerns are two-fold.

In addition to protecting guests, hosts must also be sure to protect themselves.

The nation’s host laws vary depending on individual states, but hosts can be held liable, both in criminal and civil court, if their impaired guests are allowed to drive home. While everyone has the right to celebrate come the holiday season, it’s important for holiday hosts to be extra cautious and always keep their guests’ safety and security in mind.

When planning a holiday party, hosts should consider the following tips to ensure everyone has a fun time, and a safe and sound one as well.

• Only invite close friends and family. Though the spirit of the season makes it tempting for hosts to invite as many people as possible, it’s best to only invite those closest to you. Hosts should know how each invitee acts and drinks in a social environment and limit the guest list to those friends and family members who have proven they can handle a drink or two without going overboard.

Everyone’s goal is to have a fun and safe time, so guests should be willing to part with their keys at the start of the party as opposed to after the party begins, when it might be more difficult to convince guests to hand over their keys.

• Make the party an active event. Hosts should plan certain activities or games to entertain their guests. With nothing on the docket, guests are more likely to spend idle time drinking. Plan a gift exchange for more intimate gatherings, or play fun games that give guests something to look forward to besides their next drink.

• Have transportation readily available at the end of the night. For smaller gatherings, hosts might be able to handle the designated driver duties all by themselves. However, for larger gatherings, have taxi company phone numbers readily available, and make it known to guests before the party begins, whether on the invitation or when guests arrive, that no one is driving home if the hosts don’t feel it’s safe.

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(ARA) - It might feel like the holiday season is still eons away, but think again.

Do you have your decorating, entertaining and gifting plans in place? If you’re looking for ideas and inspiration, why not think green this year?

This isn’t just about holiday garlands, trees and wreaths. This is the ecofriendly and sustainable kind of green. And keep in mind that going green for the holidays doesn’t mean being boring - you can incorporate all the glitz and glam of the season and still help the environment. Here’s how:

Twinkling lights

Sustainable sentiments

Americans purchase seven million greeting cards each year. Out of seasonal card sales, which account for half of total sales, 60 percent of these cards are Christmas cards. Imagine the number of trees it takes to produce that many cards each year, not to mention how much waste reaches landfills when the cards get tossed.

Send cards printed on recyclable paper with ecofriendly inks instead of traditional cards. Or better yet, take the plunge and embrace electronic greetings: send your holiday wishes to friends and family via the Internet. While oldschool Emily Post-types might not quite approve of

Smart gifting

The option to add an ecofriendly twist to holiday gifts is on its way to becoming limitless. With so many environmentally friendly products on the market, it’s easy to find a gift that’s thoughtful, useful and sustainable.

If you do decide to buy gifts at a bricks-and-mortar store, why not consider buying local and visit that charming boutique you keep saying you want to check out? Most of the time, these shops carry items from local vendors. They also tend to offer many handmade and/ or eco-friendly products.

Shopping local keeps money in your community and keeps small business owners thriving.

Another option is to make your own gifts - knit a scarf, bead a bracelet, bake a batch of goodies, get crafty with found items around your house. If you’re not creative, there are plenty of websites where you can buy handmade items from artisans in the United States or even abroad (be sure to look for fair-trade websites, if you buy from overseas, particularly from developing countries).

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S U N DAY, N OVE MB E R 21, 2010

Forget the old, energyhogging incandescent indoor and outdoor holiday lights. Think LED instead.

Strands made from lightemitting diodes are up to 90 percent more efficient than traditional holiday lighting.

According to the Department of Energy, the best white LEDs have been found to have a useful life of about 35,000 hours, or four years, of continuous operation.

What’s even better: You won’t face the trauma of an entire strand blowing if one bulb dies. On LEDs, when one light goes out on a string, the others stay lit.

this method just yet, your environmentally minded loved ones will thank you and so will our forests.

Wishes : H O LIDAY H A P P E N IN G S A N D F E STIVE G IF T G UID E

Dreaming of a ‘green’ holiday

If you decide to completely go green and skip material gifts completely, give one from the heart by making a donation of your time and money in honor of the recipients at their favorite charities where many people can benefit from your generosity.

It’s not hard to make even small changes and go green for the holidays. By doing so, you’ll be helping the environment and still be able to deck those halls in style. The two no longer are mutually exclusive. It truly is possible to make your holidays both sustainable and spectacular.

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Decorating the yard for the Holidays

By Billy Mau Special Projects Editor One of the great holiday traditions in my family is touring the area neighborhoods on Christmas Eve to look at the decorations.

There was this one house when I was a kid that always out-Christmased every other house in the neighborhood. This house featured thousands of lights, a full Nativity scene, Frosty the Snowman and Santa’s reindeer on the roof, about a dozen plywood stand-ups depicting candy canes and presents, and Santa Claus himself riding a giant armadillo.

Not everyone goes this far when decorating for the holidays (there’s only so many giant armadillos to go around), but many people do enjoy getting into the holiday spirit and putting on some kind of display. There are some very important things to consider if you’re planning on joining the festivities.

How much is too much?

It’s easy to go overboard when decorating. People see the commercials and YouTube videos of insanely decorated houses with lights choreographed to blistering rock renditions of Christmas songs and say to themselves, “I can do that.” The end result is often a gigantic electric bill, a few noise complaints and the general impression that those videos make it look a lot easier than it really is.

The biggest problem in decorating is thinking that more is better. Some holiday enthusiasts can’t seem to rest until every square inch of the house and lawn is adorned in some fashion. This causes clutter and confusion more times than not. If you can’t tell that there is actually a house somewhere beneath all the decorations, chances are you’ve gone too far.

Also, try to have a theme in mind when you design your masterpiece. Santa Claus is fine, and Nativity 10 scenes are fine. Using

Santa as a stand-in for one of the Three Wise Men is considerably less fine. It also doesn’t hurt to limit the number of Santa Clauses in your display. Having a dozen St. Nicks scattered around the yard makes kids ask a lot of tough questions.

“Get Well Soon” cards on your doorstep.

It’s best to avoid the confusion by either decorating the rest of the house or not putting anything up to start with.

Safety

How much is too little?

Just as one can go too far when decorating, one can also not go far enough. This is not aimed at those that do not decorate. Those people have clearly picked a side in their decorative preference just as the guy with Santa on the giant armadillo did. No, this is geared towards the people that string up those icicle lights over one window and call it a day.

This goes back to having a theme when decorating. That theme could be as simple as telling yourself, “I’m going to line my roof and windows with blue lights.” Sure, it’s a simple plan, but people can tell what you were going for when they look at it. Put that string of icicles over one window, and people are going to be confused. They’ll wonder why you stopped there. Some people will guess that you must have fallen off your ladder after doing that window and have been hospitalized since. That’s the kind of rumor that can take root and the next thing you know, carolers are leaving

The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission offers the following safety tips for decorating your house and yard.

• Use only lights that have been tested for safety by a recognized testing laboratory, which indicates conformance with safety standards, and use only lights that have fused plugs.

• Use no more than three standard-size sets of lights per single extension cord.

Make sure the extension cord is rated for the intended use.

• Make sure lights are approved for outdoor use before using them outside.

• Stay away from power or feeder lines when decorating outdoors.

• Fasten lights securely to trees, house walls or other supports to avoid wind damage. Never use nails, tacks or uninsulated staples because they can damage the wiring and cause safety hazards.

protected by ground fault circuit interrupters (GFCI).

Portable outdoor GFCIs can be purchased where electrical supplies are sold.

The Underwriters Laboratory (UL) and National Fire Protection Agency offer these additional ladderrelated tips.

research. Many of these injuries occur during the holidays, so be careful when setting up that Christmas display. You don’t want you and your family to associate a decorated house with your broken leg.

• Use wooden or fiberglass ladders when working near power lines and electrical wiring.

• Make sure the ladder extends three feet above the roofline or working surface • Do not exceed the ladder’s weight rating or stand on the bucket shelf on step and A-frame ladders • Do not carry equipment up the ladder. Either use a tool belt or have someone hand up the equipment.

Emergency rooms treat 164,000 ladder-related injuries each year, according to UL

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Pros and Cons of Both Tree Types As long as Christmas trees have been a part of the holiday season, so, too, has been the debate over real or man-made trees. Each side has its supporters and detractors, and both real and man-made Christmas trees have their pros and cons.

When deciding whether or not to go to the nearby tree farm or the department store for your holiday tree this season, consider the following factors.

What Will a Natural Tree Cost?

What Will an Artificial Tree

Artificial trees will initially have a higher price tag than their natural counterparts. However, they are also more cost-effective because they can be used for several years after their initial purchases. There is also no need to purchase accessories such as tree stands and watering devices with an artificial tree, which are typically necessary with a natural tree.

How Easily Can a Natural Tree Be Moved?

The Christmas tree lot or farm does take steps to make it easier to lift and move the tree, but there’s still the challenge of getting it home.

Many, whether driving a car or SUV, choose to put the tree on the roof of their vehicle, but then worry about the tree blowing off on the highway.

Then’s there the issue of getting the tree through the doorway, an especially difficult task for homeowners with older homes, where doorways are often much smaller compared to newer homes. Bringing the tree into the home can also leave trails

of pine needles from the car to house. That’s a problem that can still be around throughout the year, as those pesky pine needles can be difficult to banish.

How Easily Can an Artificial Tree Be Moved?

Clearly, artificial trees are more advantageous when it comes to moving them.

Because they’re often boxed, these trees are lightweight and easy to maneuver into the house. Whether a house is old or new really does not matter when it comes to an artificial tree thanks to the packaging.

What Does a Natural Tree Look Like?

Where natural tree supporters often stake their biggest claim is the tree’s aesthetic appeal. Supporters feel a natural tree is much more aesthetically appealing.

However, those buying late might be stuck with all that’s

left, long after the more desirable trees have found a living room in which to spend the season.

way. In addition, once the season has ended, many trees are recycled and used as sand and soil erosion barriers.

What Does an Artificial Tree Look Like?

What Is the Environmental Impact of Artificial Trees?

While some like the real look of a natural tree, others like their holiday tree to be perfect, with none of the warts of a natural tree.

Artificial trees, unless poorly produced, have no warts, as they’re man made. Also, an artificial tree guarantees its owners the same look each and every holiday season.

What Is the Environmental Impact of a Natural Tree?

Natural trees are actually much more environmentally friendly than they initially appear. Christmas trees are planted for the express purpose of the holiday season, and large numbers of new trees are planted each year to replenish the stock in an environmentally friendly

Artificial trees often come with a host of safety warnings. That’s because they are made from a variety of materials, including PVC (polyvinyl chloride) and metals, which can put toxins into the air during production. That is why there are lead warning labels on some artificial trees. Artificial tree buyers must be careful of erecting artificial trees in homes with small children or pets, as consumption can be toxic.

Another thing to consider is that many artificial trees cannot be recycled, so there is no environmentally friendly way of disposing of them when homeowners decide it’s time to replace them.

S U N DAY, N OVE MB E R 21, 2010

Natural trees can vary in price depending on where you go. Prices can range from less than $20 to more than $50.

When making the decision, it’s important to keep in mind that a tree does not last very long, and therefore investing too much money might not be the best way to spend your money. However, there are options to purchase real trees with the root ball intact, which enables homeowners to plant the tree in their yard after the season.

Cost?

Wishes : H O LIDAY H A P P E N IN G S A N D F E STIVE G IF T G UID E

Artificial vs. Natural:

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Christmas in the Park It’s the 27th year of College Station’s Christmas in the Park and the free hot cocoa is back again along with a baking contest and a pet night.

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The 47-acre Stephen C. Beachy Central Park is decorated with more than 500,000 lights from now through January 1.

Performance nights are set for Dec. 10 and 11 featuring a full lineup of local entertainment.

The Dec. 10 lineup includes MCM Studios, the Bryan High School Steele Drum Band, TAMU Apotheosis, the Kids Klub dancers, New Notes Barbershop Quartet and the BCS Junior Drill team along with the Rudder Rangerettes.

Those coming on Dec. 11 will enjoy performances by the Creek View Elementary Show Choir, Expressions Dance and Music, the Shelli Kruger School of Dance, Suzanne’s School of Dance and the Franklin Lionettes and cheerleaders. Santa will also be on hand for pictures with kids and there will be free cookies and hot cocoa.

In addition to performing, Apotheosis will also serve as this year’s hayride hosts.

“I’m really excited to have Apotheosis as the hayride hosts,” said Sheila Walker, Parks and Recreation Supervisor and coordinator for Christmas in the Park.

“They are a subgroup of the Singing Cadets and they are really entertaining. People are going to enjoy being on the hayride with them.”

Christmas in the Park will also welcome back its Baking Contest this year. Contestants will drop off their entries on Dec. 9, with winners being announced during the Dec. 10 festivities. There is no entry fee for the contest and it is open to anyone. Walker said the bake sale has not been done every year, but that it should be a fun part of this year’s program.

“Kroger has stepped in this year and we’re giving away $800 in prizes for the baking contest,” Walker said.

“We’ll have adult and kids categories for sweets, cookies, pies and maybe cakes too.

It’s really fun and the entries that we get are just great and amazing.”

Dec. 14 is Pet Night, a popular night for guests that want to include their pets in the holiday festivities.

There will be a lighted stroll through the Christmas displays and even pictures with Santa for the pets.

Walker also reminds everyone that Christmas in the Park is still there even when no events are planned.

The lights are on every night from 6-11 p.m. and it’s a great way to relax and enjoy the holiday spirit.

“One of my favorite parts of Christmas in the Park is to pack a picnic and bring the pets or the kids and just slow down for a while,” Walker said. “It’s a great way to get away from the chores at home or gift shopping or homework for the kids, and just relax and enjoy the lights.”

Most important to Walker is that Christmas in the Park continues to be a free holiday event for anyone that wants to come.

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“There has been some discussion that we would have to start charging to attend or charge for the hayride or charge for the cookies and hot cocoa, but we have continued to

work hard to make it not be about money,” Walker said.

“Christmas in the Park is for everyone no matter of money. You can still take your picture with Santa and not be pressured to buy a

photo from us. You can bring your own camera, we actually encourage it.”

For more information on Christmas in the Park, call 979-764-3486.

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It’s easy to have leftover turkey once the Thanksgiving holiday has passed. Many people miscalculate the number of pounds of turkey they need to feed the family, or an excess of side dishes makes Tom Turkey less of the culinary centerpiece he should be. Don’t worry if you’re one of the people left with an abundance of turkey.

There are plenty of ways to turn it into delicious meals to be enjoyed for several days after the holiday.

Now comes the time to whip up delicious recipes from that remaining turkey.

Here are some ideas to whet the appetite.

• Turkey chili: Combine the meat with kidney beans, red and green peppers, onions, pureed tomato and a package of chili seasonings from the supermarket. Let simmer and serve with corn bread or over rice.

flat while cooking. Flip over and continue to cook until panini is golden brown and cheese is melted.

• Turkey Mexican-style: Replace the meat in tacos, fajitas or enchiladas with leftover turkey.

• Pulled pork-style turkey: Chop up or pull apart leftover turkey meat. Toss with your favorite barbecue sauce.

Serve on soft sandwich buns with a side of cole slaw.

• Buffalo turkey pizza: Toss leftover turkey with melted butter and hot sauce. Use the seasoned meat on top of a homemade or pre-made pizza.

Bake and enjoy.

• Turkey-tossed pasta: Add strips of turkey to a dish of pasta, topped with a favorite sauce.

• Turkey panini: Slice a thick, crusty bread and spread the outsides with butter. Add layers of turkey, cheese and cooked bacon.

Cook on a griddle, using a heavy pan to hold the panini

• Turkey salad sandwich: Mix chopped turkey with mayonnaise or salad dressing, diced celery, onions, and shredded carrots for a refreshing cold sandwich filling.

• Turkey and vegetable stirfry: Heat a wok or skillet with a little oil and saute onions, garlic and favorite stir-fry vegetables. Add the turkey to heat and season with soy sauce or teriyaki. Serve over steamed rice.

Did you know…

-Unlike most spelling words you remember from school, Hanukkah can be correctly spelled many different ways, including Chanukah, Chanukkah, and Hanukah.

-It is probably the Jewish holiday with which nonJews are most familiar, due to its proximity to Christmas.

-Despite years of teachers including Hanukkah in their “Christmas Around the World” lessons, Hanukkah is not the “Jewish Christmas” - it historically predates Christmas and had a very different origin.

-The story of Hanukkah is not mentioned in the Torah. The events that led up to the holiday happened after the Torah period in 164 B.C.E.

- In 2010, Hanukkah will begin at sundown on December 1st. In 2011, it will start at sundown on December 21th. For nonJews this is one of the most confusing Hanukkah facts, because they never know when the holiday will fall.

-For most of its history, Hanukkah has been a minor holiday, but in the late 1800’s it gained in popularity, eventually becoming one of the most celebrated Jewish holidays in the calendar.

-It takes 44 candles all together to observe all the nights of Hanukkah.

-Once they are lit, the candles may not be used for any other purpose, such as lighting other candles or reading. And they must burn for at least a half an hour.

- Hanukkah starts on the 25th of the month of Kislev. But because the Hebrew calendar is lunar rather than solar, it can fall anywhere from November to early January on the standard calendar.

- Some people claim that the dreidel game originated when Jewish children were not allowed to study Torah.

If an official came along, they would quickly pull out these toys and appear to just be playing a game.

S U N DAY, N OVE MB E R 21, 2010

To enjoy turkey leftovers, first the remaining turkey should be prepared and stored so it can be safely eaten later on. This means that turkey should be deboned and packed up for storage no later than two hours after the bird has been served, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service. Generally, leftover turkey can be enjoyed 3 to 4 days after Thanksgiving if it is refrigerated. If the meat is frozen, it can last much longer.

thawed mixed vegetables, and the remaining pie crust. Bake until the pot pie is bubbly and hot.

Wishes : H O LIDAY H A P P E N IN G S A N D F E STIVE G IF T G UID E

Turkey leftovers the family will want to eat...

• Turkey kabobs: Thread turkey on skewers with apples, pears or pineapples.

Bake until meat is reheated and fruit is soft.

• Turkey gyro: Top pitas with turkey meat, lettuce, onion, and fresh tzatziki sauce.

Tzatziki is made by mixing chopped cucumber, garlic and lemon juice with a thick Greek yogurt.

• Turkey omelets: Chop up turkey and add it to the egg mixture when making omelets. Serve with toast spread with cranberry sauce.

• Turkey pot pie: Line a pie tin with homemade or storebought pie crust. Add the turkey, half a can of cream of chicken soup, a package of

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Wishes : HO LIDAY HAPPE N IN G S AN D FE S T IVE G IF T G UID E

Secrets of gracious holiday giving (ARA) - A great gift, given in a way that tells the recipient how much he or she is valued, respected and wished well, is the essence of the holiday spirit. Decades ago, when the rhythm of life seemed more sedate, giftgivers probably had more time to invest in considering a gift and shopping for it.

Today’s hectic pace, however, can make gift giving a challenge, even for the most dedicated giver.

You can recapture the grace and thoughtfulness of a bygone era this holiday season with a few tips from the gift experts at Swiss Colony: • Food is a classic holiday gift. It can be personal (such as the recipient’s favorite holiday cookies), or broad enough in appeal to satisfy a group with varying tastes (such as a box of chocolates for a family or office mates).

“People love food gifts at the holidays because they’re timely, seasonal and can be shared with family and friends,” says Becky Henke, vice president of Swiss Colony’s food division.

“Classic holiday goodies and nostalgic treats are appreciated because of the thought and the gift itself.”

• A gift is a warm and touching way to say “thank you.” The holidays are a time for celebration, but also to express gratitude - to those you love and also to those with whom you enjoy a professional relationship, whether it’s the babysitter or a client. Thank-you gifts should be planned in advance to allow yourself plenty of time to find just the right, thoughtful gift. Tailor your thank-you gift according to the relationship you share with the recipient. Something homemade might delight your child’s teacher, while a business colleague would appreciate something lighthearted and surefire, like Melting Snowman cookies.

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• Play the thoughtful host

and ensure your guest room is well stocked for the holidays. In addition to all the necessities, don’t overlook the niceties, which should include a modest yet cherished token that guests can enjoy while they visit, or take with them when they depart. Decades ago, Grandma might have set a decorative tin, filled with homemade cookies, in the guest room for visitors to enjoy throughout their stay.

Modern hosts might present some indulgent butter toffee for guests to savor.

the shopping list to wrapping and presenting presents.

Encourage them to remember by name those who deserve special thanks at the holidays, from neighbors and babysitters to grandparents and teachers. Teaching children about giving

reminds them there’s more to the holidays than just getting presents themselves.

“A food gift is welcome any time of the year, but never more so than during the holidays,” Henke says.

“Not only does the gift itself delight with its flavor and sense of indulgence, the timeless thoughtfulness of gracious giving will leave the recipient with warm memories long after the holidays are over for another year.”

• Be a helpful guest.

Grandma would never have thought of arriving at a party empty handed during the holidays. You can improve upon that classic thoughtfulness by sending food gifts ahead of time, rather than bombarding your host with armloads of stuff when you walk through the door. A dramatic red velvet cake will be warmly welcomed as a kind treat for your hosts and their family to enjoy while they prepare for their party. And they’ll anticipate your visit all the more as they enjoy the fruits of your thoughtfulness.

• Teach children the joys of giving. Involve children in your holiday gift-giving preparations, from writing

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Our REALTOR® recipes for holiday entertaining: Good friends, good food, and a happy home!

From our family to yours.

Holiday RECIPES®

Wishes : HO LIDAY HAPPE N IN G S AN D FE S T IVE G IF T G UID E

FROM YOUR LOCAL REALTORS

Green Bean Casserole

Bananas Foster

1 (10.75 ounce) can low-fat condensed cream of broccoli soup, undiluted 1/2 cup fat-free sour cream 2 tablespoons creamy salad dressing, e.g.

Miracle Whip™ salt and ground black pepper to taste 2 (14.5 ounce) cans French-cut green beans, drained 2 (14.5 ounce) cans cut green beans, drained 2 cups Cheddar-flavored French-fried onions

1/4 cup (1/2 stick) butter 1 cup brown sugar 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon 1/4 cup banana liqueur 4 bananas, cut in half lengthwise, then halved 1/4 cup dark rum 1/2 cup of chopped pecans (optional) 4 scoops vanilla ice cream

1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. 2. Mix together the soup, sour cream, salad dressing, salt, and pepper in a large bowl.

Gently stir in the French-cut green beans and the other green beans one can at a time.

Fold in 1 cup of the fried onions. Pour the mixture into a casserole dish; cover with aluminum foil.

3. Bake in preheated oven 35 minutes. Remove the foil and stir the casserole. Top with the remaining cup of the fried onions and bake uncovered for an additional 5 minutes.

THIS RECIPE BROUGHT TO YOU BY

Keller Williams 979-255-2817

In bowl, combine the sugar, flour, and pecans; set aside.

In separate bowl, combine the butter and eggs. Stir in the flour mixture.

Fill greased and floured mini muffin tins about 2/3 full.

Bake at 350°F for 20 to 25 minutes, or until they test done with a toothpick.

Remove from tins immediately, and let cool on wire rack.

These also freeze well & make perfect gifts too... Love & Blessings from my family to yours!

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The Perfect Holiday Turkey 1 (18 pound) whole turkey, neck and giblets removed 2 cups kosher salt 1/2 cup butter, melted 2 large onions, peeled and chopped 4 carrots, peeled and chopped 4 stalks celery, chopped 2 sprigs fresh thyme 1 bay leaf 1 cup dry white wine 1. Rub the turkey inside and out with the kosher salt. Place the bird in a large stock pot, and cover with cold water. Place in the refrigerator, and allow the turkey to soak in the salt and water mixture 12 hours, or overnight. 2. Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Thoroughly rinse the turkey, and discard the brine mixture. 3. Brush the turkey with 1/2 the melted butter. Place breast side down on a roasting rack in a shallow roasting pan. Stuff the turkey cavity with 1 onion, 1/2 the carrots, 1/2 the celery, 1 sprig of thyme, and the bay leaf. Scatter the remaining vegetables and thyme around the bottom of the roasting pan, and cover with the white wine. 4. Roast uncovered 3 1/2 to 4 hours in the preheated oven, until the internal temperature of the thigh reaches 180 degrees F (85 degrees C). Carefully turn the turkey breast side up about 2/3 through the roasting time, and brush with the remaining butter. Allow the bird to stand about 30 minutes before carving.

THIS RECIPE BROUGHT TO YOU BY

Monica Palasota, GRI

Century 21 Beal, Inc. 979-492-1881

2 lbs chopped or ground venison ½ lb lean ground pork 1 lb Pinto beans 2 bell peppers diced 2 cloves garlic finely grated 2 tbs cumin 2 large white onion chopped coarse 5 medium large tomatoes or 5 cans tomatoes, 8 0z ea.

1 ½ tbs salad oil

¾ cup fresh chopped cilantro 1 tbs black pepper ½ cup chili powder 1 tbs salt 1 tsp paprika ½ cup butter 2 limes squeezed Several jalapeño or serrano peppers Small block of sharp cheddar cheese, shredded

Shred a small brick of sharp cheddar cheese. Cook beans separately until they are done but NOT mushy. Set aside. SimmerTomatoes in a separate pan for 5 minutes. Add onion and bell pepper stirring frequently and then add garlic and cilantro. Keep stirring 5 minutes.

Sauté venison and pork in a separate skillet in butter. Add meat and chili powder to tomatoes and onion mix and cook 10 minutes. Stir in cumin, paprika, oil, pepper and salt, garlic, cilantro, lime juice and simmer 30 minutes. Add beans and simmer 5 minutes more and don’t let beans get too mushy. Add water if needed but only sparingly. Last: Add finely chopped jalapeño or cilantro to taste.You must decide when it is hot enough! Simmer for 5 more minutes. Sprinkle shredded cheese on top.

M.F. “Trey”Thurmond BEAL, Inc.

BRYAN-COLLEGE STATION

Trey’s Venison Chili

THIS RECIPE BROUGHT TO YOU BY

Lisa R. Shaw

TEXAS HERITAGE

Preheat oven to 325 degrees.

In small saucepan combine sugar, corn syrup, and butter or margarine. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until butter or margarine melts and sugar dissolves. Cool slightly. In large bowl combine eggs, bourbon, vanilla, and salt. Mix well. Slowly pour sugar mixture into egg mixture, whisking constantly. Stir in chocolate chips and pecans. Pour mixture into pie shell. Bake for 50 to 55 minutes, or until set and golden. May be served warm or chilled.

Susie Morgan

Keller Williams 979.450.4347

Pecan Pie Mini Muffins

Ingredients: 1 (9 inch) pie shell 1 cup white sugar 1 cup light corn syrup 1/2 cup butter 4 eggs, beaten 1/4 cup bourbon 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 1/4 teaspoon salt 6 ounces semisweet chocolate chips 1 cup chopped pecans

THIS RECIPE BROUGHT TO YOU BY

Chad Hovde

1 cup packed brown sugar 1/2 cup self rising flour 1 cup chopped pecans 2/3 cup melted butter 2 eggs , beaten

16

Directions: 1. Combine the butter, sugar, and cinnamon in a flambé pan or skillet.

2. Place the pan over low heat either on an alcohol burner or on top of the stove, and cook, stirring, until the sugar dissolves.

3. Stir in the banana liqueur, then place the bananas and chopped pecans in the pan.

4. When the banana sections soften and begin to brown, carefully add the rum.

5. Continue to cook the sauce until the rum is hot, then tip the pan slightly to ignite the rum.

6. When the flames subside, lift the bananas out of the pan and place four pieces over each portion of ice cream.

7. Generously spoon warm sauce over the top of the ice cream and serve immediately.

Serves Four THIS RECIPE BROUGHT TO YOU BY

Cindy Haas Davis

RE/MAX Texas Heritage 979-571-6109

Chocolate Bourbon Pecan Pie

Brazosland Classic Realty 979-229-8465

The Christmas tree, an enduring symbol of the Christmas season. Some families are pickier about choosing a tree than they are about a car. Decorating it is a time of bonding for many families. It is the focal point of the home this time of year.

But the Christmas tree has a checkered past. It’s rise to the status it enjoys today has been hard fought and seeing how close the tradition has come to being stamped out should make us appreciate it even more this year.

This association with pagan festivities made the Christmas tree extremely unpopular with many fundamentalist Christians when the tradition took off in Germany in the 1600s. In 1851, a pastor in Cleveland, Ohio, named Henry Schwan was condemned by his parishioners for putting up one of the first Christmas trees in an American Church.

Others have made the case that the Christmas tree has Christian origins. They point to the story of Saint Boniface, who lived from 672-754 A.D. Boniface chopped down the Oak of Thor in the German town of Geismar while converting the local pagans

Another possible origin for the Christmas tree comes from the ancient epic of Gilgamesh and the Old Testament story of Nimrod.

Nimrod, known as Osiris in Egypt, was the first ruler of Babylon. Upon his death his wife Semiranis, known as Isis to the Egyptians, claimed he was a god after seeing a full-grown evergreen spring from the roots of a dead tree.

Semiranis would visit the tree every year on Nimrod’s birthday – December 25 – and leave gifts under the tree for her dead husband.

So as you decorate the Christmas tree this year, take a little time to reflect on all of the happy memories you’ve had around the tree and remember what it went through to get there.

S U N DAY, N OVE MB E R 21, 2010

The exact origin of the Christmas tree is not known but the custom does seem to have roots in many of the pre-Christian pagan religions. The Roman festival of Saturnalia along with the winter solstice ceremonies of the British Druids and Germanic pagans provided many Christmas traditions such as Yule logs, mistletoe, Christmas hams and even many of the characteristics associated with Santa Claus.

It is believed the Christmas tree also comes from these celebrations.

to Christianity. Legend has it a fir tree grew from the roots of the felled oak and Boniface claimed the evergreen as a symbol of Christianity.

Today, the fir is the most popular type of tree used at Christmas.

Wishes : H O LIDAY H A P P E N IN G S A N D F E STIVE G IF T G UID E

History of the Christmas Tree

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Wishes : HO LIDAY HAPPE N IN G S AN D FE S T IVE G IF T G UID E

Eggnog a Holiday Tradition The holiday season is rife with tradition. From giftgiving to kissing under the mistletoe to spending time with family and friends, the holidays are a time of great tradition and family fun.

Another holiday tradition for adults only is the drinking of eggnog. No holiday party is truly complete without a batch of delicious eggnog.

This season, ensure guests get their fair share of this holiday staple with the following recipe for “Excellent Eggnog” from A.J. Rathbun’s “Good Spirits” (Harvard Common Press).

2 1/4 cups superfine sugar 8 ounces brandy 8 ounces rum 4 ounces bourbon 1 quart milk Freshly grated nutmeg for garnish 1. Separate the eggs from the egg whites, setting the whites aside for a moment.

2. In a large mixing bowl, beat the yolks with a hand mixer until completely combined. Add the sugar and beat until it reaches a creamy consistency.

Excellent Eggnog

3. Add the brandy, rum and bourbon, and then the milk, beating well.

8 large eggs, preferably organic

4. In a medium-size mixing bowl, beat the egg whites with a hand mixer until soft peaks

Serves 8

form (be sure before beating the whites that you have cleaned and thoroughly dried the beaters).

5. Fold the egg whites into the yolk, sugar and alcohol mixture. Refrigerate the mix until well chilled (at least three hours). You may also refrigerate it overnight if desired.

6. Stir to recombine as needed. Serve the eggnog in mugs, topping each serving with some nutmeg.

Note: For a fun party game, take a vote as to who thinks “eggnog” derives from the English word “noggin” (a small glass with an upright handle) versus a combination of “egg” and “grog.” All those on the side with the fewest votes make the next batch.

Devouring Fruitcake Facts The holidays and fruitcake have long been intertwined.

Fruitcakes are often mocked, detested and discarded. Few gifted foods create such strong derision. However, fruitcake is tradition. And as most people know, Christmas is all about tradition.

Fruitcake is an enduring tradition, most simply because the food, well, endures. Most fruitcakes will last 8 to 12 months if wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and stored in an airtight container. If frozen, their lifespan could be endless.

Jokingly, many families have said fruitcake is the only food durable enough to become an heirloom.

While mocked, it may entice a few people to know just how fruitcake has become a holiday treat.

at the end of the nut harvest.

It was saved and eaten the following year at the harvest, with the hopes it would spur another successful harvest.

Fruitcake evolved to more of a delicacy in the 1800s, even being served with tea in high society. It is rumored that Queen Victoria waited a year to eat a gifted fruitcake as a show of restraint and moderation.

Fruitcake can be an integral part of a holiday celebration, and not because it’s being used to block drafts from under a door. Instead of giving fruitcakes as gifts, they should be served as part of the holiday feast. In addition to the sugar cookies and pies on the Christmas table, celebrants can serve slices of fruitcake featuring their favorite ingredients.

The oldest references to fruitcake date back to Roman times. Ancient crusaders and hunters consumed fruitcake made with preserved fruits, pomegranate seeds, pine nuts, raisins, and honey. Fruitcake was a durable commodity that could persevere on long trips.

Because of its combination of ingredients, fruitcake was also a good source of energy, much the way a trail mix is good for today’s hikers.

In the 1700s, Europeans baked a ceremonial fruitcake

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(ARA)- The holiday season is a time to enjoy family and friends, but you probably have felt the stress that comes with preparing for guests, planning get-togethers and buying gifts. And in all of that commotion, you tend to forget about some of the most important people in your life including yourself.

When making your holiday shopping list this year, why not reserve a little of the time, money and energy that you put into giftgiving and add yourself to that list? Whether you have a passion for cooking, music or a little bit of everything, you deserve to spoil yourself this year. And you know that quality counts when buying gifts for others, so don’t skimp on your self-gifting.

Listen up

Nightly luxury You pay attention to the quality of your clothes. You spent time searching for a quality car. But what about something else you use every day - your bed sheets? Ask anyone who has upgraded to luxury sheets and you’ll likely hear they only wish they had done so sooner. Sleep affects all other aspects of your life, so spending a little extra money on comfortable

Ongoing

sheets can have a bigger impact than you might think.

Treating yourself to highthread-count bed linens this holiday season is more than a material present; it is also the gift of restful nights and more positive mornings, and who can put a price on that?

Capture the moment Vacations, birthdays, concerts, the list of funfilled moments you enjoy throughout the year goes on indefinitely. You are constantly making new memories with the people you love, but the pictures you save in your mind can fade over time - and photos taken with old disposable cameras don’t fare much better. Keep your special times as clear as ever with a high-quality digital camera. Choose a model with at least 12 megapixels, built-in stabilization technology and HD video recording to capture your personal moments with professional quality. Also, look for models that feature easy exporting and fun finishing effects, so you can revisit those memories any time and any way you like.

This year, don’t forget to show appreciation for yourself with the perfect gift.

You’ve earned it.

College Station Christmas in the Park – Lights up 6-11 p.m. nightly through Jan. 1. Holiday Celebration events on Dec. 10 & 11 include live performances, hayrides, pictures with Santa and free cookies and hot cocoa. Also a baking contest on Dec. 9 and Pet Night on Dec. 14. For more information, call 979-764-6385.

Dec. 10

White Christmas – The Theatre Company presents “White Christmas” on Dec 3-5, 10-12 and 17-19. For more information, call 979-779-1302 or visit www. thetheatrecompany.com.

Cupcakes with Santa – 8 a.m. at the Children’s Museum of the Brazos Valley. This special event will be a great way to start off the Holiday Season. With crafts, cupcakes, Christmas carols, Christmas stories, and Santa, your little ones will have a dashing fun time!

For more information, go to www.mymuseum.com.

Xmas Murder Mystery – 6:30 p.m. at Messina Hof Winery & Resort.

Although his greeting cards spread warmth and cheer, Norton Pole had a frosty deameanor. No one was sad when his body was found under the tree on Christmas morning. Enjoy a delicious four-course menu with award-winning wines paired with each course as you try to solve the mystery and find the killer! For reservations, call 979-778-9463 ext. 234

Dec. 2

Dec. 5

Dec. 12

Holiday Magic – 5:30 – 8:30 p.m. at Sue Haswell Memorial Park.

Activities include Frosty’s Funland, prize drawings, pictures with Santa, live entertainment and sledding on a snow-covered hill. For more information, call 979-209-5528.

Dec. 3 & 4

Bellville’s 28th Annual Small Town Christmas Small Town Christmas is a longstanding tradition in our community and we invite you to join us. Festivities include a Holiday baking contest & sale, lighted Small Town Christmas Parade, late night shopping, Breakfast with

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Santa, gingerbread house decorating, the “All I Want for Christmas” Children’s Pageant and much more.

For more information on Bellville’s Small Town Christmas, call 979-865-3407 or visit www.bellville.com

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Dec. 4

Bryan/College Station Christmas Parade

“Holiday Brass & Organ Spectacular,” -featuring BVSO Brass musicians, James Faith on organ, and the charming Brenham Children’s Chorus at 5 p.m. at Christ United Methodist Church, College Station. Come celebrate the joyous sounds of the season with this holiday musical treat. Perfect for family and friends spending the holidays together! Sample of musical selections: Gabrieli: Canzon for 12 brass instruments; O Come, O come Emmanuel; O Holy Night; Hanukkah Holiday; and Halleluiah Chorus for Sing Along, just to name a few! For more information, call 979-696-6100.

Dec 9-12

Make a Memory Storybook Weekend – The Theatre Guild of Burleson Country will present a stage production based on the beloved children’s story “The Velveteen Rabbit” at The Mad Hatter’s Tea Room in Caldwell.

In addition to the play there will be story time readings, jewelry making, a magic show, treasure hunt, living Nativity scene, a dress up tea party, a cowboy lunch with lasso trick demonstration and a prize drawing for a stuffed velveteen rabbit and copy

S U N DAY, N OVE MB E R 21, 2010

Music has greatly influenced people for centuries, and it may affect you more than you realize.

To create the best soundtrack for your life, consider a full digital sound system for your home. Digital systems provide lifelike sound whether the tunes are playing from a computer, iPod, CD or radio, and wireless packages give you total control from any room you choose. As any music lover knows, a quality sound system can make all the difference when listening to your favorite song or movie soundtrack. If you’d like to spoil your ears this year, give yourself the gift of crisp, clear, lifelike music with a digital home system.

WishesCalendar

Wishes : H O LIDAY H A P P E N IN G S A N D F E STIVE G IF T G UID E

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4091 HWY.6, SUITE B, CS ★ HOURS: MON 9AM-7PM • TUES-FRI 9AM-8PM • SAT 9AM-6PM 979.690.6200 ★ (East Frontage Road between Rock Prairie Rd. & William D. Fitch Pkwy./Hwy. 40)