December 07, 2014

ish ook r u h o o y l i d f o a y l l season wishes co a e k a M me true!

A SPECIAL SUPPLEMENT OF

DECEMBER 2014

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X2 Sunday, December 7, 2014 - The Morning Star Wish Book 2014

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Wish Book 2014 Sunday, December 7, 2014 - The Morning Star X3 that make the goods you buy and the stores that sell them, it means lower unemployment rates, greater purchasing power, and a more tightly knit community.

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Buying local makes for the best gifts of all

M

aking the choice to support your local economy by buying local makes sense all year round, but it is especially important to do at Christmas time.

Buying local allows you to give unique gifts while making sure that the businesses run by your neighbours can stay alive. Hostess gifts, such as baskets of delicious local products or items created by local artisans, are particularly charming. And when entertaining, you’ll be sure to impress your guests by featuring the tastiest and most unusual products of your area. By doing this you’ll be encouraging local producers and limiting the greenhouse gas emissions generated by the transportation of products.

Buying local is also advantageous in the family gift-giving department. Just think about the prohibitive price of the gas you’d need to go on shopping trips to the big malls and far-away city centres, never mind having to return to these places to exchange unsuitable gifts. Indeed, for clothing, choose gifts from stores closer to home so that if the size isn’t right or your teenager doesn’t agree with your tastes in style, you won’t have to go far to remedy the problem once the holidays are over.

Promoting the prosperity of local businesses also means maintaining employment levels or even creating new jobs for yourself, your neighbours, and young adults. So, as Christmas approaches, give your community and yourself the most beautiful gift of all: buy local. When you support the business

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X4 Sunday, December 7, 2014 - The Morning Star Wish Book 2014

Readers typically are easy to shop for come the holiday season. A friend or family member can always fall back on a book or two if they know their loved one likes to get lost in a good book.

But books aren’t the only gifts shoppers can give the readers on their lists this holiday season.  E-reader: Before buying an e-reader, shoppers may want to first learn where the intended recipient of this thoughtful gift stands on the book versus e-reader debate. Some book lovers feel a sentimental attachment to traditional books,

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while others love the versatility of e-readers, many of which serve as tablets that allow users to peruse the Internet, play games and, of course, read books. If your friend or family member does not have an aversion to e-readers, then this might make the ideal gift.  Storage: For those readers who prefer traditional books, a new bookshelf can help them store their favorite titles.

Avid readers tend to buy many new books each year, so homeowners and apartment dwellers alike will no doubt appreciate the extra space to store their collections.

But even e-reader enthusiasts may find their storage filling up faster than they might have liked. To remedy that problem, holiday shoppers can buy a Wi-Drive with ample extra storage space so readers who keep both books and movies on their e-readers and tablets have plenty of extra space to store all of those new books they plan to read in the coming year.  Decorative bookends: Those who have a passion for books and home décor might appreciate a unique set of hand-

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crafted bookends to store the books they keep on their desks or those they keep out as decorative accents that guests can enjoy when visiting. Such gifts will please your friends or family members who have a flare for interior decorating while also appealing to their love of literature.  Book club membership: A membership to a Book of the Month Club may be right up the alleys of those readers who read too fast to join a local reading group or simply don’t have the time to devote to a community book club. Such memberships often sell classic titles and the latest bestsellers at a fraction of the cost of the publisher-established prices, and members typically can order as many books as they would like. This can be a great way for readers to find new titles and keep the books coming in without breaking the bank.

Avid readers are passionate about their books, and holiday shoppers can feed those passions by giving their favorite readers gifts that indulge their love of literature this holiday season.

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(NC) Due to the recent advancements in processing power, tablets have become the ideal “training wheels” for young digital natives.

At an affordable price, you can purchase multiple devices to help them ease into learning technology responsibly. Tablets are the ideal device for parents looking to teach their children about moderation and responsible technology use, while offering some great options for entertainment. Take a look at these highlights:



Get them reading:

Helping your children to enjoy reading is one of the most worthwhile investments you’ll make in their growth. For avid readers, each child can build an unlimited digital bookshelf with their tablet. If your child is struggling, animated books with graphics or sound assistance may be the key that opens the door to a love of reading.

 Civilize

drive-time:

Banish “Are we there yet?” and “He’s on my side!” to the past with tablets.

On a long drive, easily-transportable tablets can give your kids a wide

selection of personalized movies and games to keep them entertained in the backseat - and you sane in the driver’s seat.

 Homework

online:

Your preteen’s in-class materials are increasingly being supplemented with online assets like website reading and educational videos. A tablet is easy to fit in a backpack and can hold a whole year of class notes, typed homework and class materials—good practice for post-secondary school.



Inspire creativity:

Equipped with a camera, photo editing tools and an unlimited colour palette, kids can flex their artistic muscle with a tablet in tow. You’ll treasure their photo collage from your last vacation or a video montage of favourite family moments.

Before trusting your little one with a smartphone, you can teach them how to use digital technology safely and responsibly with a tablet. Your local electronics store will have information on which tablets are the best for every member of your family.

Wish Book 2014 Sunday, December 7, 2014 - The Morning Star X5

HOW TO GIFT THE PEOPLE WHO AREN’T

Come the holiday season, many people find it’s not just family and friends on their shopping lists. Coworkers and acquaintances often land on such lists as well, and it’s not always easy deciding what to get those people who aren’t close friends or family members.

Boss

Gifting the boss is a sensitive subject and should be dictated by company protocol.

If you are the only employee to buy your boss a gift, it may seem like you are trying to curry favor. However, if everyone else is gifting and you fail to offer a gift, you may be caught off guard.

Some business etiquette experts say that it is customary for bosses to give gifts to employees but not the reverse. However, employees who are especially close with their bosses or who work closely with them each day may want to offer a small token of appreciation.

When selecting gifts for bosses, do not give anything too personal, such as clothing, perfume or jewelry. Food or gift cards are a safer bet. Chipping in for a gift with other employees may be the best course of action so you don’t inspire resentment among coworkers.

Babysitter or nanny

Caregivers play important roles in the lives of children. Once you have found a sitter or nanny who you trust, you want to ensure you keep that person content. If you regularly use a nanny or sitter, money is always a great gift. For a full-time nanny, one week to one month’s pay is adequate. For a regular sitter, consider a gift equal to two nights’ pay.

Coach or club leader

Children today are involved in many different activities, and chances are parents’ schedules are filled with sports games and practices. A small gift of $10 to $20 can show your appreciation to a coach or club leader. This is another instance when it might be nice to pool your resources with fellow parents to purchase one large gift.

Mail carrier

If your mail is delivered by the same mail carrier week after week, you may want to spread some holiday joy. Mail carriers have an extra workload during the holidays, when they are tasked with delivering packages and greeting cards in addition to more routine mail. Civil servants may be forbidden from receiving cash. In such instances, a gift card makes a great gift.

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Hauling garbage is neither an easy nor glamorous job. Many garbage collectors appreciate a tip for their hard work. Take notice of who collects the trash from your home. If it is the same people each week, take the time to personally deliver an envelope with a small tip of around $20.

in Village Green Centre Gift Cards.

Hairstylist

If you are a regular for frequent treatments and color in a salon, show the stylist you appreciate his or her work with a cash gift. If you want to give a wrapped present, avoid tools of the trade or anything that is too personal. Stylists are on their feet much of the day, so a gift for a massage appointment or pedicure may be just what they need.

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Christmas Gift Ideas

X6 Sunday, December 7, 2014 - The Morning Star Wish Book 2014

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Wish Book 2014 Sunday, December 7, 2014 - The Morning Star X7

for the new parent in your life Many parents fondly recall their first holiday season as a mom and dad. While youngsters may not remember much about their first Thanksgiving dinner with family or where their first Christmas present was placed under the tree, parents tend to cherish such memories, making their first holidays with children in tow very memorable.

Loved ones of new parents can take steps to make this holiday season even more special. The following are some gift ideas for holiday shoppers who want to make this season even more memorable for the proud new parents in their lives.

k Photo album:

Today’s new parents have more pictures and video of their bundles of joy than any previous generation of moms and dads, as smartphones, tablets and other devices have made taking pictures much easier than in years past. But family members also have more access to such photos than ever before, making it easy to put together a special photo album of the new parents and their new child. Pull pictures from the parents’ social media accounts or make

an album of the numerous photos you have no doubt received since your loved ones became parents.

Parents likely don’t have time to make such albums, so your efforts will almost certainly be appreciated.

k Camcorder:

Many smartphones are capable of taking video, but such devices are not ideal for shooting longer home videos new parents will want to watch for years to come. An HD camcorder with sufficient internal flash memory can allow new parents to take longer, higher quality videos with superior audio to those that are shot on smartphones. Such a camcorder may be costly for those shopping on a strict budget, but it’s a gift new parents are sure to love and utilize for years to come.

youngster is spending more of the wee hours of the morning sleeping and less time waking up mom and dad.

k Spa treatment:

Not every gift you buy for the new parents in your life needs to focus on helping them cherish their first holiday season as parents. New parents tend to experience lots of exhaustion in their first few months on the job, but a spa treatment can be just the relaxing break they need from

catering to their bundle of joys’ every need. Moms may prefer the full spa treatment, while dads may simply want a massage and some relaxing time in the steam room. Book a treatment for both mom and dad so they can spend some time relaxing during this hectic time of year.

New parents often cherish their first holiday season as moms and dads, and the right holiday gift can make that first holiday season even better.

k Nursery sound system:

New moms and dads are no doubt anxiously anticipating the day when the newest additions to their households sleep through the night. Help speed up the arrival of that glorious night with a nursery sound system that provides soothing sounds to create a perfect sleeping environment for newly born boys and girls.

The results may not arrive overnight, but parents may soon find their lovable

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X8 Sunday, December 7, 2014 - The Morning Star Wish Book 2014

Eco-friendly gift ideas for

Giving eco-friendly gifts is now easier than ever before. As more and more people are conscious of reducing their impact on the planet, the demand for environmentally conscious products and services has grown.

Choosing earth-friendly gifts is not only generous, but gift-givers also can rest assured they’re doing their part to safeguard natural resources for future generations. The following are some gift ideas for the eco-conscious people on your holiday shopping list.

Locally made products Locally made products make great holiday gifts. Such gifts are not produced halfway around the world, meaning they don’t contribute to greenhouse gas emissions and global warming like products that need to be flown or driven across the globe.

Craft fairs and artisan shops are good sources for locally made gifts, which also are a great way to support businesses in your community.

Gifts of service A massage or music or tutoring ses-

sions are examples of gifts of service.

These gifts do not require much use of natural resources, and recipients find their personal nature very thoughtful.

Gifts of service also can include tasks you do yourself for the gift recipient, rather than paying another person to handle. For example, teach a senior member of your family how to navigate their new smartphone or agree to help them shop for groceries.

Recycled goods When many people think of recycling, they tend to picture piles of discarded plastic bottles, glass jars and aluminum cans. While the end product of many of these recycled pieces is new cans, bottles and jars, recycled materials also can be turned into new and unique pieces. Trivets and spoon rests made from recycled and melted wine bottles make for clever and attractive gifts. Recycled fire extinguishers have been turned into vases, and you can even find bike parts that have been used to make wind chimes and belts if you know where to shop.

Music lessons and other gifts of service do not require a great deal of natural resources, making them ideal eco-friendly gifts.

Natural gifts

Antiques

Natural gifts are among the most environmentally friendly ones you can give. Foodies may appreciate an herb-growing kit that enables them to experiment with freshly picked basil or thyme in the kitchen, while tree-growing kits and flower seed packets are nice stocking stuffers for budding gardeners. Offer to purchase a living Christmas tree for a relative, so that he or she can plant the evergreen after the holidays have come and gone.

New, shiny gifts are not the only ones that have appeal. Gifting a sentimental piece of family history is an earth-friendly way to share the holidays. Pass down a cherished piece of jewelry or, if you do not have anything in your own collection, browse antique shops for items that have interesting histories.

The holiday season is often a time of excess, but giving doesn’t have to be detrimental to the environment. Givers can seek out earth-friendly gifts and share even more this time of year.

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Ornaments handmade by the Okanagan Boys and GIrls Club of Vernon!

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Wish Book 2014 Sunday, December 7, 2014 - The Morning Star X9 lyberries; “Horror Xmas,” from The Misfits; “Snow Globe,” by Erasure; or “On This Winter’s Night,” from Lady Antebellum.

n o z i r o h e h t n o releases T

raditions vary from family to family, but many families share a love of holiday songs and carols at this time of year. Many notable performers have lent their voices to timeless classics or created entirely new songs that have gone on to become perennial favorites. Every year new singers showcase their talents with Christmas releases, and 2014 is no different. Holiday albums available this year include country artists’ collaborations, a carol collection from a singer-songwriter and a surprise swing-jazz release from an actor and voiceover artist. ∞ Grammy-winning vocalist Michael W. Smith teams up with a bevy of country music greats on his “Michael W. Smith & Friends: The Spirit of Christmas.” Popular artists Lady Antebellum, Jennifer Nettles, Little Big Town, and even U2’s Bono appear on this album, which features an orchestral flavor. The album is Smith’s fourth holiday release. ∞ Those looking for another Christmas album to freshen up their collections can look to “Sings Christmas Carols” from Mark Koselek. The singer-songwriter and frontman for the band Sun Kil Moon lends his baritone and guitar chops to several classic Christmas carols, including “Oh Come All Ye Faithful” and “The First Noel.” ∞ Seth MacFarlane may have Oscar and Grammy nominations to his name, but soon he will have a Christmas album to his credit as well. MacFarlane recorded “Holiday for Swing” during the holiday season last year. The release follows MacFarlane’s critically acclaimed musical debut, “Music Is Better Than Words.” The actor collaborates with Norah Jones, Sarah Bareilles and others on the tracks, which have a jazz-blues feel.

In case you happened to miss the release of the variety of Christmas albums last year, choose among “I Wanna Go Surfin’ With Santa,” by the Hol-

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X10 Sunday, December 7, 2014 - The Morning Star Wish Book 2014

GIFT IDEAS TO SCORE YOU BIG SMILES (NC) As the holidays inch closer, there’s still time to pick up a gift that’s sure to please any friend or family member still left on your list.

Start by focusing on items that are used most often – and in that case you can’t go wrong upgrading someone’s smartphone. To minimize the panic of last-minute shopping, these top smartphone picks are bound to impress your loved ones: BLACKBERRY PASSPORT: The BlackBerry is back and better than ever. The lucky recipient of this gift can stand out in a sea of rectangular touchscreens with the Passport’s square 4.5” display and qwerty keyboard. This device is great for small business owners or self-proclaimed workaholics. Reading spreadsheets and documents is a breeze on the 1:1 ratio display and because the keyboard does double duty as a mouse, it’s easy to navigate a long list of unread emails.

SAMSUNG GALAXY NOTE 4: There’s nothing worse than a dead smartphone

battery. Maybe that’s a bit of an exaggeration, but it can be hugely inconvenient to run out of juice in the middle of the day. This phone’s adaptive fast charging feature lets you recharge 50 per cent of your battery in just 30 minutes and combined with its ‘Ultra Power Saving mode’ lets you receive calls and texts for up to 24 hours at a 10 per cent charge.

The convenient S-Pen lets you select contents on the screen to share and save. You can also use the Photo Note feature to snap a pic of the boardroom or classroom whiteboard and instantly convert it to digital notes that can be edited and added too.

NOKIA LUMIA 830: The latest Windows Phone 8.1 experience comes to life on this model. The lucky recipient can download new imaging apps like Nokia Camera, Lumia Storyteller, and Nokia Creative Studio to share perfectly edited holidays pictures taken with the 10MP, PureView camera with its optical image stabilization. The best part is they’ll feel like a VIP with Cortana, a personal assistant that gets to know their interests over time.

Cortana will provide proactive recommendations, remind them of important events and appointments and even get them home on time by telling them to leave early when there’s traffic.

HOLIDAY FAVOURITES ARE HERE! Coffee & Mug with 1 pkg. of coffee

8

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Keurig K-cups or Tassimo T-Discs Pkg. of 14K-Cups

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Starting at

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* Plus Taxes

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VERNON 5205 - 25 Ave 250.260.5922

VERNON 2501- 58 Ave 250.260.6583

ARMSTRONG 2101 Harding Rd 250.546.8088

e m H♥

Wish Book 2014 Sunday, December 7, 2014 - The Morning Star X11

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X12 Sunday, December 7, 2014 - The Morning Star Wish Book 2014

Wish Book 2014 Sunday, December 7, 2014 - The Morning Star X13

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X14 Sunday, December 7, 2014 - The Morning Star Wish Book 2014

Holidays potentially hazardous to pets The holiday season is full of joy.

But in the midst of decorating and socializing, pet owners may overlook the needs of their pets. Hectic schedules and homes full of unusual décor can throw pets off-kilter.

No pet owner wants their pet to feel uncomfortable or suffer any injuries, so it’s important that owners exercise caution with the following items come the holiday season.

Bones: ★Is turkey on the menu for the

family feast? If so, resist the urge to toss some bones and scraps to dogs or cats. Small bones or bone chips can become lodged in the digestive tracts of pets and cause serious injury. If you want to provide your pet with a holiday treat, choose a safer, store-bought bone.

★Aromatic oils:

★ Chocolate and other sweets:

An abundance of treats seems to be par for the course during the holiday season. Dogs should avoid all chocolate, but dark chocolate poses a particularly serious threat.

Chocolate can cause agitation, elevated heart rate, diarrhea, vomiting, seizures, and even death. In addition, candy or cookies sweetened with the artificial sweetener xylitol can cause a dangerous drop in blood pressure for dogs.

★ Pine needles and trees:

The holidays are not the same without the familiar scent of mint, cinnamon or pine. Some people resort to scented candles or aromatherapy oils to create the perfect holiday ambiance. But some synthetic aromas or even natural extracts can be toxic to cats and dogs. Stick to nontoxic items and keep them well out of the pet’s reach.

When ingested, pine needles can puncture the intestines of pets. In search of an easy drink, dogs and cats may be drawn to the fresh water reservoir of live trees, increasing the likelihood that they knock over a Christmas tree, injuring themselves and causing damage around the house. Trees should be properly secured, and fallen needles should be promptly discarded.

★Tinsel and

decorations:

Skip the tinsel if you have a cat.

Stay close to her heart

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Hagemann Jewellers 3119 - 30 AVE. VERNON, BC TH

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Felines are likely to mistake tinsel for a toy. Eating tinsel can cause severe damage to a cat’s intestinal tract, as it may get caught in the stomach while the rest of it continues to pass through the intestines.

Tinsel also may wrap around the tongue, increasing the cat’s risk of choking. Ornaments also are tempting playthings. Cats may pounce on glass ornaments, breaking them and suffering injury.

Keep pets in mind when selecting tree ornaments, and opt for unbreakable ornaments when possible.

★ Electrical cords:

Holiday lights mean more electrical cords for kittens and puppies to chew. Secure all cords and keep them out of reach of pets.

★ Candles:

The subtle flicker of a lit candle can add ambiance to a space. But all it takes is the swish of a tail or the pat of

a paw to knock over a candle and spark a fire. Never leave lit candles unattended. If you have boisterous pets, opt for LED simulated candles instead.

★ Alcohol:

Spirits are sometimes a part of celebrations, but alcoholic beverages should be kept out of reach of pets.

Alcohol suppresses the immune system, and it can result in significant health issues for pets who consume it.

The holiday season is a time for celebration. Ensure that these festivities are as safe for pets as they are enjoyable.

Support a local business with your holiday shopping (NC) Canadian households are getting ready to go shopping now that the holiday season is here. Whether for gifts, clothing, decorations, alcohol or food, it is estimated that in 2013 households spent an average of $1,800 in preparing for these few days of festivities.

Even though Christmas and the New Year are all about the importance of sharing and spending time with family and friends, this season is also associated with numerous purchases. Would you like your shopping to be more meaningful this year?

If so take advantage of the opportunity to support businesses where you live and, at the same time, impress your family and loved ones with items created by local talent?

“Our neighbourhoods are full of small businesses that give our communities their unique character,” explains François Ramsay, senior vice-president, corporate affairs, at Yellow Pages. “Every purchase from a local merchant has a direct impact on the surrounding neighbourhood. We take neighbourhood vitality and prosperity to heart at Yellow Pages. That’s why we believe it’s important to support small businesses across the country and simplify their interactions with their community.”

Not only do they make life easier with their product offering and their proximity, as well as contribute to the overall growth of the Canadian economy, Ramsey points out that these local businesses also enhance the vitality of their specific neighbourhoods.

Even if we just do our holiday shopping locally, it can have a significant impact on the future. In addition to showing gratitude for the work of these entrepreneurs, it can help them provide these services throughout the year.

M

any of us feel anxious when tasked ATIVE WIT with getting the “perfect” gift for E R those on our list, so here are some easy and inexpensive ideas to get you started: FOR THE TEACHER – Instead of giving your child’s teacher an apple or a “Number One Teacher Mug” try to choose a more personal gift. Items like a stylish picture frame, a holiday cookbook, or a gift card to a local restaurant are all great and easy gift ideas for teachers.

FOR THE FOODIE – For friends who love to indulge and try new foods, give them the gift of chocolate. Go for the fun varieties like chocolates covered in sea salt or chocolate-covered espresso beans. Look for the yummy condiments and special treats that we all enjoy but seldom purchase for ourselves. Gourmet cookies and ready-to-enjoy treats will be appreciated.

FOR THE COFFEE LOVER – Whether you’re gifting a budding barista or a latte lover, coffee lovers will appreciate the latest and greatest coffee accessories. Things like a new specialty coffee grinder, or a compact French press. Pair these with a bag of their favourite coffee beans or a beautiful new mug for the perfect gift.

FOR THE HOST – Never show up to a party empty handed. While a bottle of wine or flowers will make do in a pinch, why not choose a more personalized gift for your hostess to show your appreciation for her hard work. Gift ideas like an engraved wine stopper, an attractive cheese platter, or an artisan vase are guaranteed to keep your name at the top of everyone’s guest list.

IS TH

GE T

H

C

helpful

Wish Book 2014 Sunday, December 7, 2014 - The Morning Star X15 FOR THE PET LOVER – Do you have a friend or neighbour who is obsessed with their furry friend? Make them D.I.Y. dog treats to give to their pal. There are many recipes available online for you to try and they are typically inexpensive and easy to make.

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29TH STREET MUSIC STUDIOS 4310B - 29th Street • Vernon 778-475-5533

COURTESY MOTORS 4313 - 31st Street • Vernon 250-542-9111

ANDRE’S ELECTRONIC EXPERTS #200 3107 48th Avenue • Vernon 250-542-3000

DISCOVERY SHOES & MARC’S FOOTCARE OKANAGAN SPIRITS 3008 - 30th Avenue • Vernon 2920 - 28th Avenue • Vernon 250-260-3898 250-549-3120

SWAN LAKE NURSERYLAND 7920 Hwy 97 • Vernon 250-542-7614

Village Green Centre #4100 4900 27th Street • Vernon 250-542-1496

EBENEZER’S 3110 29th Avenue • Vernon 250-542-0980

TEA DESIRE 4900 27th Street • Vernon Village Green Centre 250-542-5832

APPLEWOOD HEATING & AIR CONDITIONING LTD. ELECTRIC PAPER COMPANY 3105 - 31st Avenue • Vernon #8 - 1800 Kalamalka Lake Road • Vernon 250-558-1910 250-549-4777 ARDEN TILE 2800 - 45th Avenue • Vernon 250-545-2272 ARMSTRONG PHARMACY 3300 Smith Drive • Armstrong Store: 250-546-3169 Pharmacy: 250-546-3195

ENDERBY PHARMACY 513 Cliff Avenue • Enderby Store: 250-838-6469 Pharmacy: 250-838-0502 FABRICLAND 5509 24 Street • Vernon 250-542-0338

NEXGEN HEARING #201 5100 Anderson Way • Vernon 778-475-4007

PINK LADY BUG 3208 30th Avenue • Vernon 250-275-6767 PLANET BEE 5011 Bella Vista Road • Vernon 250-542-8088 POOHS & BEANS SWEET SHOPPE 3014 - 30th Avenue • Vernon 778-475-7664 SAFEWAY Downtown 3417 30th Avenue • Vernon 250-542-8167 Vernon Square 4300 32nd Street • Vernon 250-542-2627

TEETER TOTTER TOYS 3416 Coldstream Avenue • Vernon 250-503-1234 TIM HORTONS 3905 32nd Street • Vernon 250-260-3533 #14 - 2601 Hwy 6 • Vernon 250-260-7740 5205 25th Avenue • Vernon 250-260-5922

ASKEW’S Smith Drive • Armstrong 250-546-3039

FAIRWEATHER BINGO 1015 Fairweather Road • Vernon 250-558-6919

A TWIST OF YARN 3915-31st Street • Vernon 250-549-4200

GENIER’S APPLIANCES 2205 48th Avenue • Vernon 250-545-0664

BEAUTY HAVEN FAMILY HAIR CARE WIG SALES / STYLING 3413 - 30th Avenue • Vernon 250-542-4219

GOLD N’ TIME JEWELLERY 3021-30th Avenue • Vernon 250-545-7997

SECOND STREET CHILDREN’S STORE NEW LOCATION 4705 - 29th Street • Vernon 250-542-7709

HAGEMANN JEWELLERS 3119 30th Avenue • Vernon 250-545-1528

SNAP FITNESS #103 5301 25th Ave. • Vernon 778-475-5668

VERNON BUTCHER SHOP #400 3101 48th Avenue • Vernon 250-549-4704

HOME BUILDING CENTRE (VERNON) 4601 27th Street • Vernon 250-545-5384

SOUTHWARD MEDICAL SUPPLIES #8 - 2601 Highway 6 • Vernon 250-542-3334

VERNON SHOES 3308 - 30th Avenue • Vernon 250-545-2804

CANADIAN TIRE 4510 27th Street • Vernon 250-549-2131

JC BRADLEY JEWELLERS 4900 27th Street • Vernon Village Green Centre 250-545-4944

SUBWAY 4400 27 Street • Vernon 250-545-6555

VERNON SQUARE LIQUOR STORE Vernon Square Mall 4400 - 32nd Street • Vernon 250-558-5608

CASA BELLA BEDDING BOUTIQUE 1 - 3212 - 30th Avenue • Vernon 778-475-4603

JOEY’S ONLY SEAFOOD 4400 - 32nd Street • Vernon 250-503-3800

BOGART’S 3545 Okanagan Street • Armstrong 250-546-9790 BRENDA HALA PHOTOGRAPHY & FRAMING 3001 - 30th Avenue • Vernon 250-542-3010

CHICKEN LITTLE CHILDHOOD OUTFITTERS (2008) INC. MARLIN TRAVEL 4407 29th Street • Vernon 3005 30th Ave Downtown Vernon 250-549-1221 250-542-5371 COUNTRY WEST SUPPLY 3155 Pleasant Valley Road • Armstrong 250-546-9174

MONICAS CUSTOM FRAMING 4402 27th Street • Vernon 250-558-0392

SAVE ON FOODS 4900 27th Street • Vernon 250-542-8825

5301 25 Avenue • Vernon 250-503-0616 #107-3101 Hwy 6 • Vernon 250-545-7776 Village Green Centre 4900 27th Street • Vernon 250-558-5911 #12 3300 Smith • Armstrong 250-546-6362

2501 58th Avenue • Vernon 250-260-6583 2101 Harding Road • Armstrong 250-546-8088 TRUE OUTDOORS #110 5100 Anderson Way • Vernon 250-545-9555

VERNON VETERINARY CLINIC 805 Kalamalka Lake Road • Vernon

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VERNON VINTNERS #1 - 100 Kalamalka Lake Road • Vernon 250-549-8468

Wish Book 2014 Sunday, December 7, 2014 - The Morning Star X17

TABLETS are the gift that keep on giving, starting with price

(NC) The newest technology items are often at the top of holiday wish lists – and tablets are now the must-have of all.

No matter whether you’re looking for a device to stay connected, to be kept entertained, or to get organized, a tablet excels. Today, advanced processing power made possible by Intel, gives this device a long battery life, great performance and amazing speed at an affordable price. You might even buy multiple tablets for the “nice” people of any age on your list, especially with these primary gift-benefits in mind:

• the gift of COMMUNICATIONS: Families are always looking to keep in touch while on the go and tablets can help. With a large screen and fast processor, it makes quick work of running multiple social apps. Perfect for family’s with everyone using their preferred social networks and platforms to keep in touch, tablets make multi-tasking with apps quick and seamless.

• the gift of ORGANIZATION: From school concerts to soccer practice, what if you never again had to wonder where you and your kids needed to be? Giving your family members tablets lets you create a home hub system to house a family calendar and help navigate busy schedules with ease. Some family calendars even have a handy chores score keeper, grocery lists and weekly menus. This way everyone can help keep your home

running like clockwork.

• the gift of FUN: A tablet is the perfect gift for families who play together. A tablet with a high-quality screen can be used anywhere so you can enjoy family games night at home or on the road. Buy two tablets and revel in friendly competition from across the living room with simple online games.

• the gift of RESEARCH: When looking for the right tablet for members of your family, its best to begin by thinking about how each person would use their tablet. Often, battery life, processing power and screen size are key factors you should investigate before making a decision. With the variety of tablets now available, there will be a perfect match for every person on your list this year.

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X18 Sunday, December 7, 2014 - The Morning Star Wish Book 2014

Great

GIFTS for music lovers

Finding the right gift come the holiday season is not always so simple.

Many people on your list may seem as though they already have everything they could ever want or need, making it hard to find them a gift they will truly enjoy.

A great way to find the right gift is

to think of a loved one’s hobbies and find something that fosters those passions. Many people love music, and if there happens to be a budding musician or someone who simply loves to rock on your list, then the following gifts may be music to their ears. Concert tickets: The ultimate gift for many music fans is tickets to see their favorite performer in person. Concert tickets can sell out quickly, so research when tickets will be going on sale and be prepared to purchase them as early as possible.

Some credit card companies sponsor concerts and make special arrangements with venues to offer cardholders advanced deals or special packages. Find out if your credit card company has such an offer available for the concert you are buying tickets for.  Digital gift card: Gone are the days when music fans visit a record store to purchase vinyl records, cassette tapes and even CDs. Many music fans now listen exclusively to digital music, so a gift card for digital downloads from Amazon or iTunes makes a great gift. A subscription to a music-streaming service also makes a great gift.

 Theater tickets: Some people’s love of music stems from their love of live theater. Even if your

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loved one lives nowhere near the bright lights of Broadway, touring companies that perform popular Broadway shows visit cities both big and small across the country. Tickets to such shows can stoke your loved one’s passion for music and make for a great night out on the town.

 Music lessons: Perhaps your loved one is a budding musician who can benefit from professional instruction? A great way to encourage their aspirations is to finance their lessons with local music or vocal instructors. Visit a nearby college or school for recommendations on local instructors. The franchise “School

of Rock” has regional locations and offers musical training as well.

 Music store gift certificate:

Musicians often need to repair or replace their instruments, so a gift card to a music store can make for a much-needed and appreciated gift.

Repairs and new instruments can be expensive, so if you plan to go this route, put enough money on the card to make a significant dent at the register.

 Gadgets: Each year the market seems to offer newer and better ways to listen to music, and these gadgets may be on your loved one’s wish list.

Tips for a Successful, stress-free Holiday Travel Season!

M

illions of people fly the friendly skies, ride the rails or hit the highway come the holiday season. Such travel can be both expensive and stressful.

But holiday travel need not be so costly or tense. The following are a handful of tips to help travelers enjoy successful and stress-free travel this holiday season.  Reserve early. Fares only rise as the holidays draw closer. It’s unlikely you will score a last-minute deal by waiting until the last minute to book holiday travel, as discount fares are largely a thing of past. If your travel schedule is inflexible, book as early as possible. You might be able to save some money if you have some flexibility with regard to your travel schedule.  Fly on the holiday. Very often flying on popular holidays, including Thanksgiving and Christmas Day, is less expensive than flying on the surrounding days. If your goal is to save money and you don’t mind showing up on the holiday itself, then flying on the holiday may earn you the most savings.  Book a business hotel. Hotels that cater to business clientele in big cities often reduce their rates during the holidays, when business travel tends to wane.  Consider flying into and out of smaller airports. What they lack in size, number of flights and modern comforts, smaller airports can make up for in fewer delays and smaller crowds. Flying into and out of a smaller airport may be especially advantageous if such an airport is closer to your home or final destination.  Do not wrap gifts prior to traveling. If you must bring gifts along, your move through security will likely be quicker if those gifts are not wrapped.

Unwrapped gifts save officers the time of removing wrapping paper to inspect what’s inside, so reserve the wrapping for when you arrive at your destination.  Have an alternate plan in place. Unforeseeable delays or cancellations can turn even the most carefully planned itinerary on its head. Keep phone numbers for taxi services and hotels handy just in case your flight is delayed and you do not want to spend a night at the airport.  Avoid domestic or popular holiday destinations. One way to avoid the holiday crowds is to head off for parts of the world that are not celebrating the same holiday as you. Such locales likely won’t attract as many tourists as other parts of the world, and you might be able to save money by visiting during the offseason.  Take your turn hosting. People who do the holiday hosting do not have to worry about holiday travel at all. Even though it can mean more prep work and cleanup, hosting duty saves you the headaches and expenses of holiday travel.

Wish Book 2014 Sunday, December 7, 2014 - The Morning Star X19

holiday gift guide for every person on your list

(NC) Gift shopping is consistently ranked as the most stressful part of the holidays. Swapping sizes, picking colours, keeping on budget and fighting massive crowds can only lead to one thing: gift-buying brainfreeze.

But never fear! Here’s your essential gift guide for this holiday season, whether you’re buying for your social media-obsessed niece, your kale-eating brother-inlaw or your wannabe-chef husband. ~ THE PINTEREST PRINCESS: Her hobbies include staging desserts, picking photo filters and inventing creative hashtags. Her food has to be as beautiful as it is delicious.

• Gift Suggestion: Breville’s waffle maker is the ultimate in luxury, while remaining easy-to-use. It’s equipped with an LCD interface and crispiness/darkness control so she can cook to perfection. The progress indicator allows her to track the cooking. With this amazing gift, you’ll be #trending in no time. ~ THE GYM MASTER: He’s got a meticulous morning routine that includes crafting a healthy shake and completing 100 push-ups. He never misses a chance to run around the block on a sunny day.

• Gift Suggestion: The ultimate in superblenders has arrived. Its versatility and strength mean endless options like healthy green smoothies, soups, almond milk, nut butters, fine ground spices, hummus, fresh milled flour, pastes and pâtés, dips, sauces, and more. ~ THE BUSY MOM: She’s got a doctor’s appointment in an hour, 15 minutes to return calls to clients and until end of day to pick up her daughter’s birthday cake. She’s the ultimate multitasker, but could use any help she can get.

• Gift Suggestion: Breville’s All In One immersion blender slices, mashes, chops, shreds, whisks and blends food without the clutter of six kitchen appliances. Her countertop space will be appliance-free with the convenient storage of this multi‐ purpose appliance. Finally, a gift that’ll simplify Super Mom’s life! ~ THE LAZY STUDENT: He’s thrilled to be away from home – the late nights, the parties, the freedom. It’s a dream come

true. The only drawback? He hasn’t eaten a full meal in a week.

• Gift Suggestion: Breville’s Quick Touch Microwave will quickly become his new best friend. This new, easy-to-use microwave knows the power level and time that best suits his food, so he’ll never have to endure overcooked lasagna edges or exploding oatmeal again. This intuitive microwave comes with smart settings and pre-set functions so he won’t have to second guess a thing. ~ THE TOP-CHEF WANNABE: He juliennes, dices, minces and chops like a pro. He’s got all his favourite Food Network shows queued up every night. He worships David Chang and Mario Batali.

• Gift Suggestion: The Sous Chef food processor by Breville performs like a set of helpful hands in the kitchen. Chop, julienne, or slice your fruits or veggies into any desired size; the customized slices result in delicate scalloped potatoes, fine coleslaw, or sliced salami for a gourmet panini sandwich. ~ THE ESPRESSO SAVANT: She knows the difference between ristretto and macchiato. She has a regular barista.

She owns her own cupping spoon (it’s engraved).

• Gift Suggestion: The world’s first automatic manual espresso machine, the Oracle by Breville delivers freshly ground coffee, dosed to the right volume and tamped to the right pressure – no barista skills required. It has stainless steel espresso and steam boilers for simultaneous espresso extraction and milk steaming.

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X20 Sunday, December 7, 2014 - The Morning Star Wish Book 2014

Celebrate with safety

HOLIDAY FILMS

O

to lift your Spirits

ne of the more popular traditions during this festive time of year is to watch a favorite holiday film with family and friends. With that in mind, the following are some of the most beloved holiday movies ever to make it onto the big screen.

• “It’s a Wonderful Life”: Perhaps no holiday film is more beloved than this 1946 Frank Capra-directed classic.

Screen legend Jimmy Stewart plays a desperate businessman contemplating suicide during the holiday season. But a guardian angel helps him realize all the good fortune in his life by showing him what life might have been like if he had never existed.

• “White Christmas”: This 1954 song-and-dance film stars Bing Crosby and Danny Kaye as a pair of longtime friends and ex-military men who fall in love with a sister act team that includes famous singer Rosemary Clooney.

Crosby and Kaye join forces to save the failing Vermont inn of their beloved former commander.

• “Miracle on 34th Street”: Natalie Wood stars in this 1947 classic that follows the trial of Kris Kringle, who claims to be Santa Claus and must prove otherwise to avoid being institutionalized. Nominated for Best Picture at the 1948 Academy Awards, “Miracle on 34th Street” won three of the prestigious statuettes, including a Best Supporting Actor Oscar® for Edmund Gwenn, who played the jolly old man in the red suit.

• “Bad Santa”: This 2003 black comedy stars Billy Bob Thornton as miserable con man “Willie,” who poses as a mall Santa Claus so he can rob a department store safe on Christmas Eve. But in spite of its rather raunchy take on the holiday season, the film is ultimately a story of redemption as Willie befriends a bullied youngster and begins to turn his life around.

• “A Christmas Carol”: Those looking for a more traditional take on holiday films need look no further than this 1951 adaptation of the Charles Dickens novella, which tells the tale of bitter miser Ebenezer Scrooge as he is haunted by three ghosts on Christmas Eve.

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

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

* Choose the right tree. The tree you choose can go a long way toward ensuring the tree will make it through the season accident-free.

Artificial trees should be identified on their labels as fire retardant, which means they are less susceptible to fire, something that’s especially important since so many people drape their trees in decorative lights. A freshly cut tree should have fresh, green needles that do not fall off when the tree is touched.

This indicates that the tree is not dried out and less susceptible to catching on fire. * Do not place the tree near a heat source. Even freshly cut and

flame retardant trees can catch fire, so it’s important that trees are not placed in close proximity to any heat sources, including fireplaces, radiators, heating vents, baseboard heaters, and candles.

In addition, avoid placing the tree near lights or lamps that emit a lot of heat. * Keep the tree clear of exits. A Christmas tree should never be placed in a spot that bars an exit. Should an accident happen and the tree light on fire, all exits should be easily accessible so residents and guests can quickly get out of the home.

* Add water to the tree stand every day. Water should be added to the

tree’s stand every day. That water will not only help the tree maintain its color and aesthetic appeal, but also helps to prevent the tree from drying out. A dry tree is a significant safety risk, so be sure to check if the tree needs water when you wake up each morning and again before going to bed. Many trees initially need water both in the morning and at night. As the holiday

this

season wears on, the tree will likely consume less water, but it’s still best to monitor the stand’s water levels every day until the tree is discarded.

* Inspect lights before decorating the tree. All Christmas

lights should be inspected before they are hung on the tree. Replace any loose or burned out bulbs, and inspect cords to make sure they are not worn down or frayed. Follow manufacturer instructions carefully when stringing lights, as there may be specific guidelines as to how many strings of lights can be connected at one time. * Use appropriate lights. Many lights are exclusive to indoor or outdoor use, so be sure to use the appropriate lights for your indoor tree. The wrong lights could be a safety hazard. Do not hang lit candles on a Christmas tree.

* Turn lights off before going to bed. Though a Christmas tree may look beautiful when it is illuminated in the middle of the night when no other lights are on, the lights on the tree should always be turned off before going to bed or leaving your home. * Properly discard the tree. Trees that have dried out pose a considerable fire risk, so it’s best to discard a tree when it starts to drop needles. Do not place a discarded tree in the garage or lean it up against your home.

If necessary, consult a local recycling company to determine the best way to discard your tree.

Wish Book 2014 Sunday, December 7, 2014 - The Morning Star X21

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he holiday season is a time to share happy experiences with friends and family. But reconnecting with loved ones come the holidays is not always possible, especially when family and friends are spread out across the country, if not the globe. Even though these people may not be close geographically, they’re still close in our hearts and, therefore, still on our holiday shopping lists.

Some issues arise when sending gifts to faraway friends and family.

Distance necessitates shipping gifts or making travel arrangements. To make that process less complicated, consider these suggestions.

PACKAGE GIFTS WISELY When shipping gifts, exercise caution to ensure the item arrives on time and in one piece. The holiday season is one of the busiest times of the year for the shipping industry, and packages may endure a few bumps along the way. For fragile items, use extra packing peanuts, newspaper or other protective wrapping material.

Choose the right size package so the gift does not move around much inside of the box. If the gift is expensive, insure the package in the event it gets lost or damaged. Also, you may want to spend a little more money to have the shipment tracked and a confirmation sent when the package is

Many retailers offer discounts on shipping rates during the holiday season. Shop at retailers that offer such discounts, as shipping costs can be exorbitant depending on the sizes of the packages being sent. In addition, online retailers may allow you to ship the gift directly to its recipient, which can help you ensure the gift gets to its destination on time.

GIVE GIFT CARDS AND CERTIFICATES Gift cards are an easy item to ship, and can be sent within the regular mail for the cost of a stamp. Certain retailers may have digital gift cards or certificates that allow buyers to email a special code to the gift recipient, who can then redeem the code for a purchase credit. This is a convenient, fast and inexpensive way to send holiday wishes.

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DON’T FORGET ABOUT INSPECTIONS AND CUSTOMS PROCEDURES Items shipped out of the country may be delayed by customs inspectors at their ultimate destination.

Assume that certain packages may be opened or detained, and ship such packages early so the gifts still arrive on time. Packages that look unusual or like they’re hiding something may be prone to inspection more so than others. Be honest about declarations of value and what is contained in the package. Also, realize certain items, like fruits, vegetables, plants, or seeds, may be prohibited. Learn the international shipping rules for your gift’s destination prior to sending anything.

Distant family members and friends may be out of sight but certainly not out of mind come the holidays. When it comes to sending gifts, ship smart.

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X22 Sunday, December 7, 2014 - The Morning Star Wish Book 2014

The Man

BEHIND

EMPHASIZE SAFETY When Buying Gifts for Children Toys will once again be high on kids’ wish lists this holiday season, when advertisements will highlight this year’s most coveted gifts. But just because a particular toy is this year’s must-have item does not mean it’s the safest gift for kids of all ages.

According to the Consumer Product Safety Commission, there were an estimated 265,000 toy-related injuries treated at hospitals in the United States in 2012.

Of those injuries, an estimated 72 percent happened to children younger than 15 years of age while 69 percent affected kids 12 years of age or younger. In addition, an estimated 34 percent of those injuries happened to children younger than five years of age. Many toy-related deaths were the result of drowning and asphyxiation.

No one wants to think about injuries or deaths involving kids, but holiday shoppers must keep safety in mind when purchasing children’s gifts to safeguard youngsters from injury.

Balloons

The CPSC notes that balloons are the leading cause of suffocation death in children. Children may swallow broken or uninflated balloons, which can then stick to the throat and airway, making it impossible to breathe. Holiday shoppers should avoid giving balloons to children age eight or younger. In addition, dispose of balloons if or when they deflate.

Painted toys

Lead paints and toys containing lead

are not legal in North America, but that doesn’t mean that imported toys are made in adherence to stringent safety guidelines. Before buying a toy, confirm that it is lead-free, as exposure to lead can cause serious neurological problems, especially in young children.

Button batteries

Button batteries, or the small-sized batteries found in some toys, watches and hearing aids, can be hazardous. Batteries can become stuck and cause chemical burns.

Adults should always verify that the battery compartments on children’s toys are secured with screws. Other products that have remote controls may contain batteries that are not adequately secured.

In addition to button batteries, AAA batteries, which are small, can be hazardous to kids.

Magnets

Small magnets can be swallowed and become lodged in the digestive system of a child. If two or more magnets or a magnet and metal component are swallowed, they can attract to one another through intestinal walls. This can cause blockages, perforations and infections. Avoid toys that use small magnets, and check the CPSC website to ensure that magnetic toys are not among recalled products.

Toy Safety Tips • Read the packaging to ensure that toys are age-appropriate.

• Avoid projectile toys or those with sharp points.

• Store toys that belong to older children out of reach of younger kids.

• Don’t buy toys with removable parts that can be swallowed.

• Only buy toys made from nontoxic materials.

• Only buy fabric toys that are labeled as flame-resistant or flame-retardant.

• Only buy stuffed toys that are washable.

• Graciously decline hand-me-down toys that may not meet current safety standards.

the Beard

Every Christmas Eve, children go to bed eagerly anticipating a visit from Santa Claus. This merry gentleman is purported to visit the home of every good girl and boy, delivering gifts and cheer along the way.

Before the modern evolution of Santa Claus lived a very real and generous individual named Nicholas. In the third century, Nicholas served as the Bishop of Myrna in present-day Turkey. He had a reputation for secret gift-giving, believing that giving should be done secretly and sacrificially in Jesus Christ’s name rather than one’s own.

Stories tell of Nicholas paying the dowry for poor daughters to enable them to get married. He reportedly put coins in the shoes of those who left them out for him. It is believed Nicholas helped to restore the hope of hundreds of people in his community, making him a beloved and revered Bishop. Throughout his ministry, Nicholas fervently shared his life and fortune with others.

Nicholas continued to be revered and commemorated by many Christians even after his death. His charity and unselfish works helped inspire generations of the faithful, and he eventually was named the patron saint of everyone from merchants to sailors to pawnbrokers.

No one really knows what St. Nicholas looked like. But in 2005, a forensic laboratory in England reviewed historical data and photographs of the remains taken from St. Nicholas’ grave in the 1950s. Researchers concluded that he was a small man, perhaps no more than five feet in height, with a broken nose.

This image certainly does not fit with the robust frame and other imagery awarded St. Nicholas in more modern years. St. Nicholas is believed to be the inspiration for Santa Claus, which was a name taken from the Dutch Sinterklaas, a contracted form of Sint Nicolass, or St. Nicholas.

Tales of the real St. Nicholas’ giving spirit were blended with a fictional personification by New York-based newspaper writers who blended the St. Nicholas name with the appearance of a Dutch town citizen. The goal was to reach out to the primarily Dutch immigrants living in New York at the time.

This jolly elf image was given a boost by the publication of “A Visit From St. Nicholas,” which was published around the same time.

Eventually, the merry Santa Claus portrayal began to outshine the more accurate St. Nicholas version as a religious man, fostered by political drawings and caricatures that depicted Santa as a chubby sort in a red suit. That image prevails to this day.

Beneath the Christmas symbolism, the beard and the presents associated with Santa Claus lies a tale of generosity that originated with St. Nicholas.

How to find just the right fashion gift

FOR HIM

(NC) Browsing the blazers and navigating the neckties can be a stressful experience for any shopper. This season’s fashion trends for men mix classic with casual for a look that is relaxed and elegant.

To find the right look for your dad, big brother, hubby or friend, follow these five fashion tips for his nomination to the ‘best dressed’ list this season: Layering is all the rage with quarter-zip sweaters paired with a plaid shirt underneath. Think harvest colours in a cottage cozy feel with marled yarn and corduroy accents.

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Cashmere cotton blend sweaters keep things warm and good-looking.

The blend creates softness and warmth with added durability.

One line that has an array of crew, v-neck and cardigan styles in stripes and solids that will not break your budget, is Logan Hil. Great denim is a fashion must-have in any man’s wardrobe. Think Levi’s classic fits like 501, 505, and 514 that never go out of style and are perfect for lounging around a fire on a snowy winter night or dressing up with a smart blazer for a fun night out.

Preppy styles, reminiscent of east coast polo matches, channel sophisticated casual. Mock neck and cable-collared sweaters with sherpa lining, will keep any man on your list fashionably warm while making the Holiday rounds with friends.

Don’t forget the basics.

Classic pajamas, and robes never go out of style, and socks and underwear are perfect stocking stuffers. And remember, these must-haves are often a great deal when bought in multipacks.

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Did You

KNOW? Though there is no official data that declares the best-selling holiday toy for children of all-time, it’s fair to assume the lovable “Sesame Street” figure Elmo is high on the list of most popular holiday toys.

Much of that popularity can be traced to the introduction of Tickle Me Elmo in 1996. Though not the first Elmo doll, Tickle Me Elmo became the must-have gift of 1996, when parents searched far and wide for the doll that laughed when users tickled its stomach. During the holiday season of 1996, many people paid far beyond market price just so their children could wake up on Christmas or Chanukah and have a Tickle Me Elmo doll to call their own. Since 1996, Elmo has been reincarnated many times over, and each Elmo doll seems to inspire its own craze come the holiday season. Released in 1998, Walk ‘N’ Talk Elmo was a popular children’s gift, as was Rock ‘N’ Roll Elmo (1999), Tickle Me Elmo Surprise (2001), Chicken Dance Elmo (2002), and SHOUT Elmo (2005). In 2006, Mattel®, the company that produces the Elmo dolls, announced a special commemorative Elmo to mark the 10-year anniversary of the introduction of Tickle Me Elmo. That, too, sparked a buying frenzy, as some reports indicated private sellers were selling the latest Elmo, known as TMX Elmo, for thousands of dollars.

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