Home for the Holidays 2020

RhodyBeat

Home presents

for the

November 2020

A SPECIAL SUPPLEMENT FROM

Beacon Communications

View this section online @

www.rhodybeat.com

Home for the Holidays • November 2020 • 2

Call Ahead Seating

732-6575 Located 1/4 mile South of Apponaug 4 Corners

288 Arnolds Neck Drive, Warwick, RI www.crowsnestri.com

OPEN

WED.-SUN. 12-9PM, CLOSED MON. & TUES.

Home

for the

Featuring…

Fresh Seafood, Lobsters, Chicken, Steaks and Pasta Dishes Closed Thanksgiving Day and Christmas Day Not Booking Large Groups due to COVID-19

The Perfect Gift for Everyone on Your List – A Gift Card from The Crow’s Nest!

Atwood Florist,Inc.

1041 Atwood Ave., Johnston • 274-7300 (Between St. Rocco’s & Simmonsville Ave.) ALL MAJOR CREDIT CARDS WE DELIVER

Boxwood Tree Classes Available Starting Immediately After Thanksgiving $40 per person. Call now for details.

• Decorative and Timeless Floral Arrangements • Keepsake Floral Containers • Live Plants - Poinsettias, Dish Gardens, Etc. • Italian Gourmet Gift Baskets • Decorative Cemetery Christmas Wooden Logs

ON SALE

PHANTOM FIREWORKS Arriving Christmas Eve for New Years 2021

4

Must-haves to achieve a holiday wonderland

4

Did you know? - Professional holiday decorators

5

Why are Christmas colors red and green?

6

Steps for hanging holiday lights outdoors

9

The bright side of small holiday celebrations

10

Gifts that can make social distancing more enjoyable

11

5 ways to make gift cards more personal

12

Great gifts for book lovers

14

Holiday baking gets even sweeter with brownies

14

How to involve kids with holiday baking

15

Classic fruitcake tailor-made for the holiday season

17

Security tips to consider before buying online this holiday season

17

Did you know? - Returns

18

The meaning of the menorah

22

Start new caroling traditions

3 • November 2020 • Home for the Holidays

Fall is a great time to buy or to sell.

We offer experience in the community with our knowledgeable agents.

Call today and we can share our success with you.

Nick Oneppo 692-0182

George Avedisian 374-6999

Lisa Avedisian 339-4242

nickoneppo@gmail.com

gavedisian@cox.net

lavadisian@cox.net

Rhonda Schneider 255-8601

Chris Smith 263-8096

Chris Stephenson 954-7377

rhondasellsne@gmail.com crsmith44@hotmail.com

CJS65@verizon.net

Dixon Disu 837-0555

Kevin Dohoney 651-8075

Dixon.realestateone@gmail.com kevindohoney@gmail.com

Kevin Myette 477-9260

Heidi Loffredo 301-7204

MyetteKevin@gmail.com HeidiLoffredo@yahoo.com

Jennifer Higham 714-8009

Linda Traversie 487-3627

Melissa Correia 225-6687

jmh3@hotmail.com

ltrav@hotmail.com

mchrisabbey@yahoo.com

Terry Messier 316-9056

Nikolas Zarokostas 680-3132

Gina Ronci 864-1698

terryla00@yahoo.com

zarokostas11@gmail.com ginaroncisells@gmail.com

Ryan & Kristen Lenhart 255-6342 lenhartgroup@yahoo.com

Bill Iannucci 323-2003 nucci160@aol.com

David Lutz 696-8003

Clay Shackleton 374-8644

dlutz4658@gmail.com

cshackletonjr@gmail.com

Lynn Chenel 935-1288

Michael Feeney 595-1677

lynn.swanson.chenel@gmail.com michaelfeeney28@gmail.com

Buying or Selling? Call any one of our agents for all your real estate needs.

ExpEriEncE counts

1645 WarWick avenue • WarWick, ri 02889 We wish to thank everyone that has contributed to our success as one of the leading independent Real Estate Companies serving Rhode Island and Massachusetts for the past 28 years.

vieW over 2,000 homes

www.realestate1ri.com

Home for the Holidays • November 2020 • 4

Must-haves to achieve a holiday wonderland

T

he end of the year marks a period of heightened festivity. Come the holiday season, homes and businesses are decorated and everyone seems to have an extra spring in their step.

Did you know?

The sight of snowflakes, candy canes, evergreen wreaths, and Christmas trees can elicit nostalgia for happy holidays of the past, as well as excitement for what is yet to come.

When it comes to decorating for the holidays, there are certain items that set the scene.

I

• Christmas trees: Germany is credited with starting the modern Christmas tree tradition.

It dates back to the 16th century when devout Christians brought trees into their homes and decorated them. German settlers brought Christmas tree traditions to America upon their arrival in Pennsylvania in the 19th century.

• Mistletoe: Mistletoe is known as the “kissing plant” and it is customary for couples to kiss while standing beneath the plant, typically hung in doorways and arches. Mistletoe was once hung to drive off evil spirts and ensure fertility. Kissing under the mistletoe was first found associated with the Greek festival of Saturnalia and later with primitive marriage rites.

• Lights: Lights are commonly seen during the holiday season. The custom of having holiday lights dates back to when Christmas trees were decorated with candles, which symbolized Christ being the light of the world. These traditions evolved from pagan rituals that would celebrate the return of light of the sun as the days grow longer after the winter solstice.

• Yule log: Many families burn a yule log in the fireplace and watch it burn while listening to Christmas carols. The familiar custom of burning the log dates back to solstice celebrations and the tradition of bonfires.

The Christmas tradition called for burning a portion of the log each evening until Twelfth Night, also known as the Epiphany, which takes place on January 6.

• Poinsettias: Poinsettias are a tropical plant that originated in Mexico. Joel Roberts Poinsett was the first Ambassador from the United States to Mexico. He became enamored with the plants, and brought them back to his native South Carolina. An old Mexican legend suggests a poor girl had nothing to offer baby Jesus at Christmas Eve services, so she picked a handful of weeds and put them at the bottom of the nativity scene.

These weeds burst into bright red flowers and became known as “Flores de Noche Buena,” or “Flowers of the Holy Night.”

Holiday decorations borrow traditions from all over the world to help establish a festive wonderland.

Mention this ad and get

25 Off

$

Your First Container 10, 15, 20 & 30 Yard Dumpsters Family Owned and Operated!

Call Us Today: 1-855-85-TRASH (Toll Free: 1-855-858-7274)

Servicing RI, MA & CT • Licensed and Insured

t is customary to decorate for the holiday season, but not everyone has the time, inclination or wherewithal to handle the task. Those who want to enjoy the holidays but do not have time to decorate can rely on the services of professional holiday decorators. These individuals are available across the United States and Canada and can design top-notch lighting displays. Depending on the decorator, interior and exterior design services may be available. Professional decorators can work in residential or commercial settings. Furthermore, some services may include preventative maintenance as well as timely takedown of decorations once the season is over. Hiring a professional has its merits, including time savings, reduced injury risk and the assurance that a clean and thorough job will be done. Professional decorating also eliminates the need to store lights and other decorations between seasons, freeing up valuable storage space.

GIVE the GIFT of great taste

M

any people may not get in the holiday spirit without decorations and all the trimmings. Chances are strong that if you have containers full of items just waiting to see the light of day again this holiday season, those items are red or green or some combination thereof.

Red and green have become the traditional colors of Christmas, just as blue and white symbolizes Chanukah.

But how did this color palette come to evolve?

Just like many traditions of Christmas, the red and green scheme has origins that pre-date the Christian celebration.

Christmas has borrowed from many of the customs of winter solstice celebrations of ancient peoples, including the Celts. Ancient Celtic people revered holly plants, believing they brought beauty and good fortune in the middle of winter — a time when the landscape is normally bleak and holly plants thrive and stand out. Celts would regularly bring in sprigs of holly and decorate their homes with the plants, which feature shiny, serrated leaves and bright, red berries, as a way to guarantee a prosperous new year. Holly also came to be associated with the crown of thorns Jesus Christ was forced to wear during his crucifixion.

The custom of using red and green continued into the 14th century. Dr. Spike Bucklow, a research scientist at the University of Cambridge, says red and green also were used to paint medieval rood screens, which were partitions installed in churches to

separate the congregation from the priest and altar. Dr. Bucklow notes that Victorians also extended the association of these colors as a physical boundary to another boundary: the marking of the end of the old year and the beginning of a new one at Christmastime.

While red and green had associations with Christmas in early times through holly and other sources, the connection was perhaps best solidified thanks to a man named Haddon Sundblom.

Sundblom was an artist commissioned in 1931 by the Coca-Cola company to create an image of Santa Claus for the company’s upcoming holiday ads. Until this point, versions of Santa were rarely consistent, with his clothing vacillating between green, blue and red. He also wasn’t the plump, jolly fellow associated with Christmas as we know him today, but rather thin and elf-like. Sundblom portrayed him as a chubby man wearing red robes, likely as a nod to Coca-Cola’s own red logo, even though the company denies the connection. Santa was featured in front of a green background.

The ads proved popular and Sundblom’s Santa became the preferred depiction.

Santa’s red robes perfectly complemented the green background and other green components of the holiday, such as Christmas trees and holly, that already had been solidified as Christmas imagery.

Color plays a strong role in creating Christmas nostalgia. Red and green are put on vivid display throughout the season.

gift giving just got easier Purchase Dave’s gift cards at any of our 10 Locations or order online at www.davesmarkeplace.com

5 • November 2020 • Home for the Holidays

Why are Christmas colors red and green?

Home for the Holidays • November 2020 • 6

Steps for hanging holiday lights outdoors

• Add to shrubs and trees. Lights also can adorn shrubs and trees. Lowes Home Improvement says a good rule of thumb is 100 lights for every 11⁄2-feet of tree or shrub to cover. A 6-foot evergreen needs at least 400 lights for a basic level of lighting.

I

t begins to look a lot like Christmas when twinkling lights brighten up homes inside and out. Few things liven up the season more than holiday decorations, particularly clear and colored lights.

Prior to taking out the lights, ladder and thermos of coffee to get you through the job, it’s important to note that there are right and wrong ways to hang holiday lights.

• Sketch out your plan. Start by taking a few photos of your home from various vantage points. Print out the photos on regular paper so that you can draw your lighting arrangement and decoration placement right on the photos to see how things will look.

• Measure the area. Use a measuring tape to roughly measure the width and height of eaves or other areas of the home where you plan to hang light strands. Calculate how much overall footage you will need so you can purchase all of the lights in one shopping trip.

• Test the lights first. Plug in the lights to be sure all strands are operational.

• Begin where the lights will be plugged in. Start where the lights will be plugged in and then work your way around the house.

• Exercise extreme caution. Accidents can happen when stringing lights. While many professionals use harnesses, homeowners are not always so cautious.

Utilize a spotter to hold the ladder and make sure things are safe. Never set foot on a wet or icy roof. Do not attempt to string lights in inclement weather.

• Know the wattage. Each outlet can generally hold about 17 amps or 1,870 watts if the lights are not sharing a circuit with another outlet, says Parrish. Plan accordingly to ensure you have enough power to handle your lights.

• Use plastic clips. Plastic light clips hang strands along eaves and gables.

They’re specially designed for hanging lights over the gutters. Some slip under the edges of roof shingles. Lights can be hung without staples or nails, which can damage exterior surfaces. Plastic zip-ties or deck clips also can attach lights along a handrail.

• Use only outdoor extension cords.

Be sure the extension cords you use are designed specifically for outdoor use.

• Use a timer. Timers can make sure the lights turn on and off even if homeowners forget.

Once lights have been safely strung, sit back and enjoy the splendor of a welldecorated house.

restaurante mexicano & tequila bar

Authentic Mexican Cuisine - Vegetarian & Gluten Free Options

Enjoy Safe In-door Dining

with our dining room and bar dividers Give the Gift of

Condesa

Receive a $10 Bonus Card with Every $50 Gift Card Purchase OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK - LUNCH & DINNER Family Owned and Operated – 2 Great locations 970 DOUGLAS PIKE 721 QUAKER LANE, SMITHFIELD, RI 02917 WEST WARWICK, RI 02893 401.349.3935 401.828.1005

7 • November 2020 • Home for the Holidays

Condesa

Home for the Holidays • November 2020 • 8

Visit

L L I N H S U N I R K SERY P O H

Complimentary Hot Cocoa

Beginning Friday, November 20 for all your Holiday decorating needs Open at 11:30

Christmas Trees $25 & up Decorative and Potted Trees, Blue Spruce 4-5 ft., Alberta Spruce, Boxwoods, Wreaths, Garlands and Greenery Check out our Gift Shop filled with decor, Yankee Candles & local items

Special Deals: SMALL BUSINESS SATURDAY November 28th 73 Hopkins Hill Rd., West Greenwich • 392-3137 hopkinshillnursery.com Hopkinshillnursery@aol.com

Donna J. Sabitoni ABR, CRS, GRI, SRES Broker Associate

401-529-1204

D

SOL

NEW TO MARKET!

Are you considering selling your home?

We have a collection of prequalified buyers looking to purchase. If you are considering selling or know someone who is...

The bright side of small holiday celebrations

T

o say the novel coronavirus COVID-19 changed life would be an understatement. Due to COVID19, the way people interact with one another has changed dramatically over the last several months. Despite this, the public has proven very resilient and adaptive, often finding a silver lining while confronting challenges that might once have seemed insurmountable.

The holidays are one aspect of life that have been modified as people continue to navigate the new normal. It’s easy to lament the fact that extended family may not be able to travel or celebrate the holidays together. However, there is something to be said for small celebrations.

The following are some of the positive aspects of scaling back holiday festivities.

• More personal: Certainly it can be great to see distant cousins or old college roommates for the holidays. But the more people who you see each holiday season, the less personal interaction you get. When the holidays are scaled back, dinner becomes more intimate and everyone can exchange gifts and see their loved ones’ reactions.

• Reduced expenses: Putting out an extensive holiday spread and entertain-

Please call Donna Sabitoni at 401-529-1204 Exceptional Properties Exceptional Clients Exceptional Service

SOLD

115 Town Farm Road

| Coventry

1 acre, pool, barn, finished lower level with summer kitchen, 2 car garage $380’s

SOLD

ing 10 or more people can be expensive.

Small gatherings are less expensive because there’s fewer mouths to feed.

• Ability to splurge: On the other side of the financial coin, having fewer people for the holidays means one can indulge on items that may not be possible when hosting a crowd. Therefore, if chicken was normally on the menu, it could be possible to upgrade to a roast or something indulgent like lobster and other seafood. In addition, a small holiday celebration may free up the budget to spend more on gifts.

• Special touch: When there are only a few people celebrating, hosts can go the extra mile to give celebrations a special touch. Create a special holiday dessert even if the recipe is time-consuming. In addition, immediate family can pile into the car to tour the neighborhood decorations, something that may not be as manageable with a motorcade of relatives.

While holiday celebrations may need to be scaled back this year, small gatherings can produce some pleasant, unanticipated benefits.

58 Seawynds Drive

| North Kingstown

SOLD

114 Hopkins Ave

56 Betony Road

| Narragansett

SOLD

| Johnston/Scituate Line

67 Wood Sorrel Trail

Our turn key service also offers resources within the finance, legal and reconstruction fi eld.

Call Donna Sabitoni at 401-529-1204 for a complimentary marketing buyer or seller portfolio presentation. Various transactional fee structures available.

donnasabitoni@cox.net | www.DonnaSabitoni.com

| Narragansett

9 • November 2020 • Home for the Holidays

Happy Thanksgiving!

Home for the Holidays • November 2020 • 10

Gifts that can make social distancing more enjoyable

Cooking classes

E

xchanging gifts with loved ones is a holiday season tradition. That tradition figures to continue this year, though families will almost certainly have to adjust the ways they exchange gifts.

nchy’s e r F COUNTRYSIDE CREAMERY

GIFT BASKETS • • • • • • •

Cinnamon Glazed Nuts Great Northern Fudge Salted Nuts Gourmet Apples Ice Cream Gift Cards Deluxe Nut & Chocolate Mixes Gourmet Popcorn Stop In And Check Out Our Selection

NEED MORE THAN 10 BASKETS LET’S TALK Frenchyspopcorn@aol.com Mon.-Fri. 2-8 Sat. & Sun. 12-8

1105 SCITUATE AVE., CRANSTON

The outbreak of the novel coronavirus COVID-19 in the winter of 2019-20 changed how people across the globe live their lives. Social distancing guidelines encouraged people to limit get-togethers, particularly indoor gatherings. Experts anticipate restrictions on indoor gatherings will continue in the early part of the winter of 2020-21, which could force families to rethink how they get together during the holiday season.

Many people have spent the last several months honing their culinary skills. Gift givers can help them take those skills to the next level by enrolling them in online cooking classes. The options are endless and some even include access to legendary celebrity chefs like Gordon Ramsay. Many online cooking classes feature monthly memberships or single classes, making them ideal for loved ones of all skill and interest levels.

Technology Technology has helped many people stay connected with friends and family while social distancing, so a new tablet, laptop or desktop computer can be just what people need to fully engage in family Zoom sessions or weekly virtual happy hours with coworkers and friends.

If a new tablet or laptop stretches your budget, consider a pair of noisecanceling headphones, which can make it easier to concentrate while working remotely in a crowded house.

Families also may want to think outside the box when buying gifts for their loved ones, targeting items that can make social distancing easier. The following gift ideas can make a socially distant holiday season that much more special for a loved one.

Streaming subscription Movie theaters have been closed for months in many areas. But movie lovers still want to see their favorite flicks, so a streaming subscription to a service such as Netflix or Amazon Prime can be just what they need to stay entertained while social distancing this winter. For fans of classic films, including indie movies, foreign films and big studio productions, a subscription to the Criterion Channel might make the perfect gift. Curated by the Criterion Collection, this streaming service provides access to a library of more than 1,000 classic and contemporary films, making it an ideal gift for the family film buff.

Crafting kit Hobbyists may have had their passions for crafting reinvigorated while social distancing, making a crafting kit an ideal gift to help them fill their downtime.

Beginner’s kits also can make an ideal gift for novices looking for an engaging, time-consuming hobby.

Certain gifts can be a perfect fit during a socially distant holiday season.

Visit Warwick’s Newest Gift Shop this Holiday Season.

You’ll find gifts for anyone, for any occasion.

CUSTOM GIFT BASKETS, LOVEPOP CARDS, TOYS, CANDLES, BALLOONS, PARTY SUPPLIES, R.I. SOUVENIRS, UNIQUE GIFTS FOR ALL AGES & MUCH MORE Perfect for Secret Santa • Gift Certificates Available Shop Online at

tigereyegiftshop.com

15 Off %

Your purchase with this coupon

Use coupon code BEACON to receive 15% off online orders

W

hen in doubt while holiday shopping, go with a gift card.

Gift cards provide a convenient way to ensure people of all ages ultimately get something special.

According to a 2016 survey by the gift card sales tool CardCash, gift cards are a $127 billion market that keeps growing. Physical gift cards have been growing at an annual rate of 6 percent, but digital gift cards are growing at an annual rate of 200 percent. The financial resource The Motley Fool indicates that, during the 2018 holiday shopping season, people buying gift cards purchased roughly four cards each, with an average value of $45 per card.

Many people enjoy the convenience of storing digital gift card information on their phones. Even though gift cards are any easy option, like giving cash, they may seem like impersonal gifts.

However, gift givers can explore these ways to add a personal touch to the gift card.

1. Make your own gift card. Companies including Visa® and Mastercard® enable gift-givers to personalize cards with their own photos. Shoppers also can choose from predesign galleries to present a card that has a little more flair. The gift cards can then be tied to specific occasions or holidays.

2. Choose a popular store. Rather than buying the first gift card you see, select a

card for a specific store your loved one likes. For example, if the person is an outdoors enthusiast, a gift card to L.L. Bean may be perfect. If he or she wants to be the next top chef, money toward Sur La Table or Williams Sonoma is fitting.

3. Wrap it in a unique way. Don’t just give the gift card in an envelope; find a unique way to wrap it. After all, that will make the gift card a gift within a gift.

Find a small gift box and wrap the gift card as you would any other gift. Or make it even more exciting by designing a scavenger hunt with clues on where to find the hidden gift card.

4. Assemble a gift basket. Add a few extra treats to a basket with the gift card that ties into a theme. If the gift card is for a boating or fishing retailer, place tackle, a floating key ring or a dry storage bag in the gift basket.

5. Add a sweet message. Attach a greeting card and share a few sentiments about why the gift card was chosen. This will help make the gift more personal and show that time was taken to select the item.

The National Retail Federation and Prosper Insights & Analytics reassures that gift cards are one of the most popular entries on holiday wish lists each year. Making the gift a bit more personal can increase the enjoyment factor even further.

TIGER EYE GIFT SHOP • COUPON EXPIRES 12/31/20

768 WEST SHORE ROAD • WARWICK, RI 02889 • 401-384-7024- •

GIVE YOUR LOVED ONE THE GIFT OF TIME WITH A GIFT CERTIFICATE FROM

THORPE’S

Let Us Do the Work!

WASH, DRY, FOLD

LAUNDROMAT & DRY CLEANING We Provide:

MONDAY & TUESDAY

Only

89

¢*

lb.

Includes soap, softener and bleach

Wash, Dry, Fold

Pickup & Delivery Dry Cleaning

560 Providence Street, West Warwick 401-826-7158 Mon.-Fri. 7:30am-9pm; Sat. 6:30am-9pm; Sun. 6:30am-8pm

11 • November 2020 • Home for the Holidays

5 ways to make gift cards more personal

Home for the Holidays • November 2020 • 12

Great gifts for book lovers

Shop Local

THIS HOLIDAY SEASON FOR ONE-ON-ON PERSONAL SERVICE

KUCINSKI

JEWELERS

Fine Jewelery, Gold, Silver, Sales, Repairs Owners Tom & Marta Kucinski

2362 West Shore Road, Warwick • 401-921-6706 Embrace the warmth of family and create

PERFECT HOLIDAY

oments

Avid readers may have personal book collections that rival local libraries’, so it can be difficult to find something they haven’t already read. In addition, asking them what’s on their wish list of books can remove the element of surprise from holiday gift-giving. Fortunately, shoppers can still light up their favorite book lovers’ eyes this holiday season, even if they’re not giving them a recent bestseller.

Send gifts they’ll love, make meals they’ll remember... with Omaha Steaks, Christmas this year will be worth the wait.

THE BUTCHER’S DELUXE PACKAGE

TRY THE EXCLUSIVE OMAHA STEAKS

BUTCHER’S CUT TOP SIRLOIN Taller, thicker steaks, expertly hand-cut.

Double-trimmed for 100% flawless bites.

Aged 21 days for the most tenderness.

The best steaks of your life or your money back.

B

ooks are very popular gifts come the holiday season. Genres that run the gamut from fantasy to nonfiction ensure there’s a book out there for everyone. But finding the right gift for a book-loving loved one may not be as easy as it seems.

4 (5 oz.) Butcher’s Cut Top Sirloins 4 (4 oz.) Boneless Pork Chops 4 Boneless Chicken Breasts (1 lb. pkg.)

8 (4 oz.) Omaha Steaks Burgers 8 (3 oz.) Gourmet Jumbo Franks 8 (3.8 oz.) Individual Scalloped Potatoes 8 (4 oz.) Caramel Apple Tartlets Steak Seasoning (1 oz.)

FREE PORK CHOPS & CHICKEN BREASTS Get even more for the holidays when you buy this package today!

$298.87* separately

INTRODUCTORY PRICE $129.99

Shop Now! OmahaSteaks.com/dinner646 or call 1.877.438.6620 and ask for free pork chops and chicken breasts with offer 66762SNH *Savings shown over aggregated single item base price. Photos exemplary of product advertised. Limit 2. 4 free (4 oz.) pork chops and 4 free chicken breasts (1 lb. pkg.) will be sent to each shipping address that includes (66762). Free product(s) may be substituted. Standard S&H added per address. Offer available while supplies last. Items may be substituted due to inventory limitations. Cannot be combined with other offers. Other restrictions may apply. All purchases acknowledge acceptance of Terms of Use. Visit omahasteaks.com/termsof-useOSI or call 1-800-228-9872 for a copy. Expires 1/31/21.

• Bookshelf: E-readers may provide instant access to millions of books, but many avid readers still prefer physical books. Bookshelves can make the perfect gift for book lovers who take great pride in their home libraries.

Bookshelves come in all shapes, sizes and styles, from ladder bookcases to floating bookshelves to built-ins. A basic understanding of your loved one’s home decor preferences is all you need to find a bookshelf that can blend in seamlessly in his or her reading room.

• Audio book subscription: Audio book subscription services have grown in popularity in recent years. These services

make it possible for busy readers to devour their favorite books while commuting to and from work or running daily errands in the car. Amazon’s Audible membership provides readers with a host of benefits, including discounts on audiobook purchases, monthly credits toward anything available through the service and even complimentary digital newspaper subscriptions.

• Bookends: Book lovers tend to put a lot of effort into designing their reading rooms. Decorative bookends, which can have a humorous angle or tie into a theme that correlates to readers’ favorite literary genre (i.e., boat bookends for lovers of maritime histories), can make for great, unique gifts.

• Embosser: Embossers allow readers to put their personal stamps on every book in their collections. That not only adds a unique touch to readers’ personal libraries, but also may increase the chances that the books they loan out to friends and family members are ultimately returned. After all, who wouldn’t return a book to its original owner when that book has been personally embossed?

Many items make the perfect gift for book lovers, even if shoppers are unsure about buying their loved ones actual books.

Still Cruising Weekends Through December!

LIGHTHOUSE CRUISES

90 - MINUTE NARRATED TOURS Departures from Newport and Jamestown —Easy Parking!

SOCIAL-DISTANCE SEATING AND SURFACES SANITIZED ON EACH RUN Reserve Tickets Today at CoastalQueenCruises.com or Call (401) 423-9900 x3208.

Cloth Face Mask Required to Board.

E-GIFT CARDS AVAILABLE

Give Someone a Coastal Queen Scenic Cruise! Go to: coastalqueencruises.com/#giftcards

The Valley Country Club Restaurant is

NOW OPEN TO THE PUBLIC for Dine-In and Curbside Take-Out.

Valley CC has showcased its cuisine and excellent service for decades to their club members, wedding receptions and special events...

Now Everyone can enjoy the food and service you’ve been hearing about for years!

TREAT YOURSELF NOW

Try one of our favorite appetizers for FREE with purchase of any entree. Must present this ad to receive offer.

One appetizer per table. Expires 03-01-2021

Every Sunday

Enjoy our Five Course Italian Dinner Special, Every Sunday As you know, this will be the 20th year for Elves for Elders!

Due to COVID-19 restrictions, we will not be accepting gifts this year.

We are looking for gift cards or monetary donations only.

Our communities are struggling even more this year.

We will want to provide some cheer for our seniors.

Please send a donation.

Please make checks payable to: SENIORS RULE Seniors Rule is the non-profit organization that coordinates Elves for Elders.

The address to send a donation:

Maxine Hutchins c/o Right at Home 730 Warwick Avenue | Warwick, RI 02888 Pleae feel free to include a Holiday card. More info 401-286-3821

for only $15

821-1115 ext.5 Safe & Socially Distant Dining Experience • Variety of Menu Items Special Take-Out Catering Menu for Your Home Gatherings Exclusive Venue for Special Events

251 New London Avenue, Warwick, RI 02886 Wednesday, Friday, Saturday 11am-8pm; Sunday 11am 5pm All inquiries may email info@valleycountryclub.net Now Accepting applications for 2021 Semi-Private Golf Membership

13 • November 2020 • Home for the Holidays

For the First Time Ever...

Home for the Holidays • November 2020 • 14

Holiday baking gets even sweeter with brownies

W

hat would the holidays be without delicious foods to share with loved ones? In fact, crafting elaborate meals and baking goodies is par for the course once the weather begins to cool and decorations turn up on businesses and homes.

Line the bottom of an 8-by-12-inch sheet pan with parchment paper and lightly coat the paper and the pan sides with flavorless vegetable oil. Put the gelatin in a small bowl.

Add the water and stir. Set aside to soften.

Many people have tried-and-true recipes they rely on each year, but there’s always the possibility to give new tasty tidbits a try.

There are so many tantalizing desserts to tickle the tongue, but this recipe for “Rocky Recchiuti Brownies” from “Chocolate Obsession” (Stewart, Tabori & Chang) by Michael Recchiuti and Fran Gage yields rich and chewy brownies that no holiday celebrant will be able to resist.

Combine 1 cup of the sugar with the corn syrup in a large, heavy-bottomed pot. Use an unlined copper pot if you have one. Place over medium heat and cook, stirring occasionally with a wooden spoon, until the sugar melts. Then continue to cook, without stirring, until the mixture reaches 230 F on a candy thermometer. If any crystals form on the sides of the pan and the mixture heats, wash them down with a wet pastry brush.

Rocky Recchiuti Brownies

Meanwhile, put the egg whites in the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the whip attachment. Scrape the seeds from the vanilla bean into the bowl.

Makes 16 brownies

51⁄2 ounces 100 percent unsweetened

chocolate, coarsely chopped, divided 10 tablespoons (5 ounces) unsalted

butter with 82 percent butterfat,

cut into 1-inch slices.

2 ⁄3 cup (31⁄2 ounces) unbleached all purpose flour 1 ⁄2 teaspoon kosher salt 3 extra-large eggs, at room temperature 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract,

preferably Madagascar Bourbon cups granulated cane sugar 11⁄3 1 ⁄3 cup walnut halves, roasted and

roughly chopped 6 Tahitian Vanilla Bean

Marshmallows, each 11⁄2 inches

square, cut into quarters (see

recipe below) Preheat the oven to 325 F. Line the bottom of an 8-inch square baking pan with parchment paper and liberally coat the paper and the pan sides with flavorless vegetable oil.

Put 3 ounces of the chocolate and the butter in a medium stainless-steel bowl and set over a pot of simmering water. Heat, stirring occasionally, until the chocolate and butter melt and are fully combined and the mixture is smooth. Lift the bowl from the pot. Set aside.

Sift the flour and salt together into a bowl. In another bowl, combine the eggs and vanilla extract and whisk together by hand until blended. Whisk in the sugar.

Whisk the egg mixture into the chocolate.

Add the flour and the remaining 21⁄2 ounces

About 3 cups powdered cane sugar for finishing

How to involve kids with holiday baking

chocolate to the batter and, using a rubber spatula, mix well. Then mix in the walnuts.

Pour the batter into the prepared pan.

Spread it evenly with a small offset spatula.

Scatter the marshmallow pieces evenly over the surface and push them halfway into the batter. The tops should remain uncovered.

Bake on the middle shelf of the oven until the marshmallows are browned and a skewer inserted into the center of the brownie sheet comes out with some batter clinging to it, about 45 minutes. Let cool completely in the pan on a wire rack, then cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate until cold.

Run a table knife around the edge of the pan to loosen the sides of the brownie, and then slide the brownie, still on the paper, onto a work surface. Using a ruler to guide you and a sharp knife, cut into sixteen 2-inch squares. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 weeks.

Tahitian Vanilla Bean Marshmallows About 40 marshmallows

Flavorless vegetable oil for the pan 33⁄4 teaspoons unflavored gelatin 3 tablespoons water 2 cups granulated cane sugar,

divided into halves 11⁄2 cups light corn syrup 4 extra-large egg whites, at room temperature 1 Tahitian vanilla bean, split horizontally

When the sugar syrup reaches 240 F, start to beat the egg whites on medium speed.

When the whites form very soft peaks, add the remaining 1 cup sugar and continue beating.

When the sugar syrup reaches 250 F, remove it from the heat and stir in the softened gelatin. The syrup will foam up and triple in volume. Switch the mixer to high speed and slowly pour the syrup into the beaten egg whites, aiming for the side of the bowl. The whites will almost double in volume. Reduce the speed to medium-high and beat until the whites (not the outside of the bowl) are lukewarm to the touch, about 114 F, about 15 minutes.

Scrape the marshmallow mixture into the prepared pan and, using a small offset spatula, spread it evenly to the sides. Let cool completely at room temperature.

To cut the marshmallows, sift about 1⁄2 cup of the powdered sugar onto a work surface in a rectangle the size of a sheet pan. Sift another 2 cups powdered sugar into a large bowl. Run a thin-bladed knife around the edge of the pan to loosen the marshmallow.

Invert the pan onto the sugared surface to unmold, then lift off the pan and peel off the parchment paper. Sift about 1⁄2 cup powdered sugar evenly over the top. Using a ruler to guide you and a lightly oiled sharp knife, cut the marshmallow sheet into 11⁄2inch squares. It is easier if you use a pressing motion, rather than pull the knife. After cutting, toss the marshmallows, a few at a time, in the bowl of powdered sugar, coating them lightly.

T

he holiday season is steeped in tradition. Many holiday traditions are centered around food, with much of the focus on all of the decadent treats and desserts taking center stage at many family gatherings.

Many parents hope to involve their children in as many family holiday traditions as they can. Holiday baking is one kid-friendly tradition, and parents can make it even more so by taking a few simple steps before they get started.

• Purchase kid-friendly baking equipment. Bakers rely on lots of tools to make cookies, cakes and other delicacies. That equipment is even available in kids’ sizes. Kids may be more excited about baking if they have their own equipment, and such gear also can make it easier for them to lend a hand. A spatula made for youngsters can make it easier for kids to move cookies from a baking sheet to a platter, while colorful measuring cups and their own whisk can excite youngsters about baking.

and the sides with one layer of parchment.

The batter will be very sticky.

In a medium bowl, mix together the flour, cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, allspice, and baking powder.

• Plan ahead. Seasoned bakers know that it’s imperative to have the right supplies, including ingredients, on hand before beginning a baking session. That’s even more necessary when baking with kids, who might not be as patient as moms and dads hope if a baking session has to be paused to run to the store for a missing ingredient or to dig out some tools from the back of the pantry.

Plan ahead by setting everything out and assembling all the necessary ingredients the night before you plan to bake.

• Delegate wisely. Young kids may want to do everything mom and dad do, but baking is a delicate science that requires careful attention to detail and a strict adherence to recipes. So it’s important that parents delegate wisely when involving children in holiday baking. Whisking, stirring and topping off cookies with frosting and sprinkles are fun, kid-friendly tasks.

• Add some fun foods to the menu.

If you plan to bake holiday cookies, purchase kid-friendly holiday cookie cutters before your baking session so youngsters have as much fun as possible. Kids may have more fun if they get to make Santa Claus, Frosty or Rudolph cookies.

• Make a mess. Don’t be afraid to get a little messy when baking with children. Moms and dads may love a clean kitchen, but kids tend to have more fun in the kitchen when things get a little messy. Douse each other with a little flour and make a joke of things if some ingredients find their way onto the counter or the floor instead of into your mixing bowl.

Parents can make the holiday baking that much more fun by letting their kids pitch in this year.

T

he holiday season is steeped in tradition, and many of those traditions figure to be compromised to some degree in 2020. The outbreak of the novel coronavirus COVID-19 that began in the winter of 2019-20 has affected holidays and how people celebrate for much of the year.

St. Patrick’s Day was the first holiday to be affected by COVID-19, as communities across the globe canceled celebrations or scaled them back considerably. For example, the world renowned St. Patrick’s Day Parade in New York City was canceled in 2020, and many other holiday celebrations had to shift course as well.

While family gatherings to celebrate holidays like Easter, the Fourth of July and Labor Day may have been downsized in 2020, one staple of such celebrations has endured: food. That trend figures to continue throughout the 2020 holiday season. In-person dinners may or may not be possible, but families can still take to their kitchens and do some holiday baking, ultimately sharing their bounties with relatives, friends and neighbors.

Though it might not have as many devotees as holiday cookies, fruitcake is a must-have for many during the holiday season. This recipe for “Fruitcake” from Jeanne Sauvage’s “Gluten-Free Baking For the Holidays” (Chronicle Books) can help holiday celebrants ensure the holiday tradition of baking fruitcake continues this holiday season.

Fruitcake

Serves 10 to 15

Macerated Fruit pounds raisins, pitted prunes, 21⁄2

pitted dates, and dried figs, finely chopped 1 ⁄2 cup candied orange and/or lemon

peel, finely chopped 1 ⁄3 cup candied or dried cherries,

finely chopped

⁄3 cup candied or preserved ginger,

finely chopped

Grated zest and juice of 1 large lemon

Grated zest and juice of 1 large orange 1 tablespoon orange or tangerine marmalade 1 tablespoon apricot jam 1 cup applesauce 2 tablespoons brandy, sweet sherry

or apple juice 1 cup unsalted butter, at room

temperature, plus more for greasing 3 cups Jeanne’s Gluten-Free All-

Purpose Flour (see below) 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon 1 teaspoon ground ginger 1 teaspoon freshly grated nutmeg 1 teaspoon ground allspice 1 tablespoon baking powder 1 cup packed dark brown sugar 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract 4 extra-large eggs, at room temperature 2 tablespoons brandy, rum,

whiskey, sweet sherry, or apple

juice, or as needed 2

The day before you bake the cake, prepare the macerated fruit. Place the raisins, prunes, dates, and figs in a large bowl. Add the citrus peel, cherries, ginger, lemon zest and juice, and orange zest and juice. Add the marmalade, jam, applesauce, and brandy and stir to combine. Cover the bowl and let stand overnight at room temperature so that the fruits soak up the liquid and the flavors meld. The mixture can macerate in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.

Preheat the oven to 325 F. If the fruit has been in the refrigerator, bring it to room temperature.

Grease the bottom and sides of a 91⁄2- or 10-inch springform pan with butter. Line the bottom with three layers of parchment paper

In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, beat the butter on medium-high speed until light and fluffy, about 3 minutes. Add the brown sugar and beat for 1 minute. Reduce the speed to low, add the vanilla, and beat until combined.

Add the eggs, one at a time, beating after each addition. Then beat for 1 minute longer. Add the flour mixture and beat until just combined. Add the macerated fruit and, with a large wooden spoon, combine with the batter. This requires a bit of strength.

Scrape the batter into the prepared pan.

Bake for 2 hours, then reduce the oven temperature to 300 F and bake until a toothpick inserted into the middle of the cake comes out clean, about 2 hours. If the cake browns too quickly, you might want to tent it with aluminum foil for the last 2 hours so it doesn’t burn.

Remove the cake from the oven and, while it is still hot, pierce it all over with a skewer. Pour the brandy over the top.

Place the pan on a wire rack and let the cake cool completely.

Remove the sides from the pan and peel the parchment paper from the sides and bottom of the cake. Wrap the cake in waxed paper and place it in an airtight container or wrap it in a few layers of plastic wrap. Leave the cake at room temperature for 3 to 5 days to allow the flavors to meld. If you used alcohol, you may store the cake in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.

Store sliced cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week.

Jeanne’s Gluten-Free All-Purpose Flour Makes 41⁄2 cups

1 ⁄4 11⁄4 1 1

1

cups brown rice flour cups white rice flour cup sweet rice flour cup tapioca flour Scant 2 teaspoons xanthan gum

In a large bowl, whisk together the brown and white rice flours, sweet rice flour, tapioca flour, and xanthan gum thoroughly. Transfer the mix to an airtight container. Store in a cool, dark place for up to 6 weeks or in the refrigerator for up to 4 months.

15 • November 2020 • Home for the Holidays

Classic fruitcake tailor-made for the holiday season

Home for the Holidays • November 2020 • 16

from the Management & Staff of

BEACON COMMUNICATIONS Warwick Beacon • Cranston Herald • Johnston Sun Rise The Reminder • RI Newspaper Group • RhodyPrints

Did you know?

• Don’t just use any Wi-Fi. Wi-Fi can make holiday shopping a breeze, but shoppers should know that unsecured Wi-Fi connections make it easy for cyber criminals to see everything users are doing online. When using Wi-Fi to shop, make sure the connection requires a password and never purchase items from a site that does not. WPA2 AES encryption does not make users invulnerable to hackers or other criminals, but it does provide substantial security that’s superior to other encryption technology.

O

nline shopping has become a wildly popular way for consumers to meet their holiday shopping needs. According to Mastercard, e-commerce sales hit a record high in the 2019 holiday season. Data from Mastercard’s SpendingPulse report indicated that consumers spent 19 percent more on online shopping in 2019 than they did in the previous holiday season.

That record may be short lived, as shoppers are expected to spend even more online this holiday season as they continue to confront the global COVID-19 pandemic. A recent survey of 1,000 consumers conducted by the omnichannel technology provider Radial

found that two-thirds of shoppers expect to increase their online purchases this holiday season.

Online shopping may be especially convenient during a pandemic, but online shoppers must take steps to protect themselves from cyber criminals.

• Make your browsing more secure.

HTTPS Everywhere is an extension that encrypts shoppers’ communications with major websites, thereby making their browsing more secure. Compatible with browsers such as Chrome, Firefox and Opera, HTTPS Everywhere employs technology to ensure websites do not default to unencrypted HTTP sites, which are not as secure as HTTPS sites.

• Use a credit card instead of your debit card. Credit cards provide more protection to consumers than debit cards.

Though conditions apply, credit card users are not liable if fraudulent purchases are made with their cards, while debit card users could face an uphill battle to avoid being on the hook for fraudulent purchases.

• Shop via mobile apps instead of websites. Cyber criminals are less likely to target mobile apps in an effort to access consumer data because apps require hackers to create specific attacks for each app. Websites are vulnerable to general browser attacks, which means hackers don’t have to work as hard to access site visitors’ sensitive data as they would if they were to target retail apps.

Experts expect online shopping to reach new heights this holiday season, and it’s up to consumers to take every step necessary to ensure their sensitive financial information is kept safe from online criminals.

H

oliday shoppers on the lookout for the perfect gift might want to avoid buying clothing or electronics for their loved ones. A 2019 study from the personal finance website WalletHub found that 34 percent of gift recipients in the United States intended to return gifts they received for the holiday season. Among those who planned to return gifts, 68 percent intended to return clothing while 23 percent indicated they planned to return electronics. Clothing is often returned due to issues with sizing, but fashion sense also can vary significantly from individual to individual. That can make clothing a tricky item to gift a loved one.

Electronics also can be difficult, as techies may have loyalties to certain brands or simply prefer devices that are compatible with items they already own. So unless shoppers know which devices their loved ones already rely on, it may be best to avoid giving gadgets this holiday season. Of course, shoppers who want to gift clothing or electronics can always give gift cards to their loved ones’ favorite stores.

Merry Christmas AND A HAPPY NEW YEAR

Customer Satisfaction Is Our Number One Goal State-of-the-Art Equipment · Certified Technicians · Eco-Friendly Car Paints

62 Post Road, Warwick • 401-781-8722 • www.ricksautobodyri.com

17 • November 2020 • Home for the Holidays

Security tips to consider before buying online this holiday season

Home for the Holidays • November 2020 • 18

The meaning of the menorah

M

enorahs are a prominent symbol of Chanukah. Menorahs are seven-branched candelabras that have been used in Jewish worship since ancient times. The seven branches refer to the seven days of creation. The menorah is the traditional symbol of Judaism and the emblem of the state of Israel. For Chanukah, a ninebranched candelabra called a hanukkiah is used, but the word “menorah” has become interchangeable. The Chanukah menorah consists of nine candles. The center and ninth candle are referred to as the Shamash. It is used to light all the other candles. The Shamash is raised above the other candles to make it kosher. The lighting of the menorah over the eight days of Chanukah symbolizes the miracle that occurred during the rededication of the Second Temple in Jerusalem at the time of the Maccabean revolt. The sacred oil, of which there was only enough for one day’s lighting, miraculously lasted for eight days.

Buy O Get Onne, e

WarWickor Beacon cranSton Herald

39

$

one-year Subscription

Only

00

Hal f Pric e

includes Unlimited Web access

ift G e h t that n so keep ng!

Givi

yeS! send me the WarWick Beacon yeS! send me the cranSton Herald ❑ Warwick Beacon 1-Year In-State Subscription — Only $39.00 Plus...a Second 1-Year In-State Subscription HaLF PRICe — Only $19.50!

❑ Cranston Herald 1-Year In-State Subscription — Only $39.00 Plus...a Second 1-Year In-State Subscription HaLF PRICe — Only $19.50!

name ________________________________________________________________________

name ________________________________________________________________________

Address _______________________________________________________________________

Address _______________________________________________________________________

City ___________________________Zip_______________tel. __________________________

City ___________________________Zip_______________tel. __________________________

❑ Check Attached (made out to Beacon Communications)

❑ Check Attached (made out to Beacon Communications)

Credit Card ❑ mC ❑ VIsA ❑ dIsCOVeR # ____________________________________ exp. _________ Code ______

Credit Card ❑ mC ❑ VIsA ❑ dIsCOVeR # ____________________________________ exp. _________ Code ______

Please send a Gift subscription to:

Please send a Gift subscription to:

name ________________________________________________________________________

name ________________________________________________________________________

Address _______________________________________________________________________

Address _______________________________________________________________________

City ____________________________________________ Zip __________________________

City ____________________________________________ Zip __________________________

Please mail with payment to:

Please mail with payment to:

Beacon communications | 1944 Warwick avenue, Warwick, ri 02889 | 401-732-3100 | warwickonline.com

Beacon communications | 1944 Warwick avenue, Warwick, ri 02889 | 401-732-3100 | warwickonline.com

19 • November 2020 • Home for the Holidays

Holiday Special

Home for the Holidays • November 2020 • 20

Advertise on our

HOLIDAY ADVERTISING PAGE IN G!

A special 4-week Section Running Dec. 2, 9, 16 & 23 in the Cranston Herald, Johnston SunRise, The Reminder and Warwick Beacon

Home

for the

6x2 (10.5” x 2”)

276/per week - First 3 weeks

$

B O N U S PR IC

Week 4

BONUS PRICING! WeeK 4 - $138

50% Off our aleady ce. discounted pri

1x2

46 /week First 3 Weeks

$

1x2

1x2

(1.65” x 2”)

(1.65” x 2”)

46 /week First 3 Weeks

46 /week First 3 Weeks

$

BONUS PRICING! Week 4 - $23

(1.65” x 2”)

$

BONUS PRICING! BONUS PRICING! Week 4 - $23 Week 4 - $23

2x2 (3.42” x 2”) $ 92 /week First 3 Weeks BONUS PRICING! Week 4 -

$

1x2

46 /week First 3 Weeks

$

BONUS PRICING! Week 4 -

BONUS PRICING! Week 4 -

$

BONUS PRICING! Week 4 - $92 $

46

3x2 (5.19” x 2”) $ 138/week 69

First 3 Weeks

BONUS PRICING! Week 4 -

LImITeD SPACe AVAILABLe

$

69

3x3 (5.19” x 3”) $ 207/week

3x3 (5.19” x 3”) $ 207/week

BONUS PRICING! Week 4 - $103.50

BONUS PRICING! Week 4 - $103.50

First 3 Weeks

Reserve Now! 401.732.3100 or 401.821.2216

184/week

$

First 3 Weeks

3x2 (5.19” x 2”) $ 138/week First 3 Weeks

3.42” x 4”

BONUS PRICING! Week 4 - $23

2x2 (3.42” x 2”) $ 92 /week First 3 Weeks

46

2x4

(1.65” x 2”)

First 3 Weeks

6x2.5 (10.5” x 2.5”)

345/week - First 3 Weeks

$

BONUS PRICING! Week 4 - $172.50

Happy Holidays!

Happy Holidays!

Holiday Greetings!

ESCADA RESTAURANT & BAR

TOP NAILS

CONDESA

VALLEY COUNTRY CLUB

RESTAURANTE MEXICANO & TEQUILA BAR

1478 Atwood Ave, Suite 110 Johnston RI 421-3536

West Warwick 828-1005 Smithfield 349-3935

251 New London Ave. Warwick, RI 821-1115 valleycountryclub.net

Merry Christmas!

Season’s Greetings!

Enjoy the Season!

Happy Holidays!

HOPKINS HILL NURSERY

PEOPLE’S LIQUOR WAREHOUSE

DAVE’S MARKETPLACE

73 Hopkins Hill Rd. West Greenwich, RI 401-392-3137 hopkinshillnursery.com

1350 Greenwich Ave. Warwick, RI 401-737-0900 peoplesliquor.com

10 STORES ACROSS RHODE ISLAND Coventry • Cranston • Cumberland • East Greenwich Little Smithfield • N. Kingstown/Quonset • Smithfield Crossing Warwick - Hoxsie • Warwick - WSR • Wickford www.davesmarketplace.com

SAINT ELIZABETH COMMUNITY

Season’s Greetings!

Happy Holidays!

Happy Holidays!

Happy Holidays!

REAL ESTATE ONE

MASSAGE ENVY

CCAP

2 SISTAS CATERING

39 Putnam Pike Johnston 233-0007 EscadaRestaurantBar.com

Locations in: Cranston • East Greenwich Lincoln • Providence

COMPREHENSIVE COMMUNITY ACTION PROGRAM

Where RI seniors come first™ Find the right care at www.stelizabethcommunity.org

MassageEnvy.com

401-467-9610 www.ComCap.org

41 Warwick Ave. Cranston, RI 02888 401-442-8004

Happy Holidays!

Happy Holidays!

We Thank You!

Season’s Greetings!

LANZI FURS

PROJECT UNDERCOVER

BEACON COMMUNICATIONS

RHODYPRINTS

PROMOTIONAL PRODUCTS

Every Child Has A Right To A Clean Dry Bottom

1944 Warwick Avenue, Warwick, RI 401-732-3100 warwickonline.com • cranstononline.com johnstonsunrise.net • rireminder.com

1944 Warwick Avenue Warwick, RI 401-732-3100 rhodyprints.com

1645 Warwick Avenue Warwick, RI 401-739-0110 www.realestate1ri.com

1854 Atwood Ave. Johnston RI 02919 401-231-9174 www.lanzifurs.com

Get Involved at projectundercover.org

21 • November 2020 • Home for the Holidays

Merry Christmas!

Home for the Holidays • November 2020 • 22

Start new caroling traditions

C

aroling is a symbol of community that once was a wildly popular holiday tradition but has largely fallen by the wayside.

According to the Pew Research Center, about 16 percent of Americans reported caroling in 2017. However, this once-beloved tradition can be brought back with vigor.

History of caroling Caroling evolved from the practice of wassailing. The word “wassail” is derived from the Old Norse phrase “ves heill,” which translates to “be well and in good health.” As early as the 13th century, people in England would travel between houses to go wassailing and wish their neighbors well during the winter months. In some places, the word “wassail” referred to a hot and thick spiced beverage given to travelers to help them stay warm. It is the precursor to modern-day mulled wines, cider and eggnog.

Caroling largely remained separate from Christmas until Saint Francis of Assisi incorporated similar well wishes

and songs into his Christmas services.

Music was embraced as part of liturgical services during the holiday season.

Caroling today Many caroling sessions now take place inside of churches or schools as part of choral performances. However, with social distancing limitations in place, it may be the ideal time to once again implement door-to-door caroling.

This can help bring cheer to people who may be missing loved ones who can’t travel, and may even buoy the spirits of those who have been spending more time alone in their homes.

These tips can make caroling more successful.

• Find someone with some musical knowledge to guide the group.

While everyone needn’t be the next star singer, it helps if one person can help keep the group in time and in tune.

• Choose familiar songs. Select a

body of music that is familiar to all.

Songs such as “Silent Night,” “Joy to the World,” “Deck the Halls,” and “The 12 Days of Christmas” are easily recognizable. The more familiar the song, the easier it is for carolers to follow the tune. Have roughly 10 songs and rotate as needed when visiting homes.

• Map out your course. Caroling can take place over several days as carolers visit various parts of their communities. A caroling session may last about an hour or two.

• Dress for weather. Layer clothing and agree on some festive trimmings that unite the caroling group. Wear comfortable shoes for walking.

• Advertise your intentions. Let others know that carolers will be stopping by on particular dates so they can come out on their front porches or doorsteps. Follow social distancing guidelines if necessary and urge spectators to avoid congregating too closely in one place.

Caroling is a great way to enjoy the holiday season responsibly.

Where RI seniors come first Saint Elizabeth Home Short-term rehab, long-term care and memory care THE GREEN HOUSE® Homes at Saint Elizabeth Home

A new concept in nursing home care East Greenwich: 471-6060

Saint Elizabeth Manor Short-term rehab, long-term care and memory care Bristol: 253-2300

Saint Elizabeth Court Affordable assisted living Providence: 490-4646

Cornerstone Adult Services Adult day health centers Warwick and Bristol 739-2844

Saint Elizabeth Community offers a full spectrum of care and services for older adults in Rhode Island, ensuring they receive the right care in the right place at the right time.

Saint Elizabeth Place

Affordable apartments for seniors and mobility impaired Providence: 273-1090

Saint Elizabeth Terrace Affordable apartments for seniors Warwick: 739-7700

To learn how we can help you or someone you love, visit our website or call us at one of the numbers listed.

Cathleen Naughton Associates Home health services Statewide 773-7401

www.stelizabethcommunity.org A non-profit, nonsectarian 501(c)(3) charitable organization and a CareLink Partner.

23 • November 2020 • Home for the Holidays

Happy Holidays from Saint Elizabeth Community

Home for the Holidays • November 2020 • 24