Maple Leaf Home for the Holidays special section 11-15-18

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Geauga County Maple Leaf Special Section

Thursday, November 15, 2018

Thursday, November 15, 2018

Geauga County Maple Leaf Special Section

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Simple Ways to Make More Time for Family MetroCreative For the majority of working professionals, finding quality time to spend with loved ones can be a delicate balancing act. But working parents do not have to wait until retirement to enjoy being in the company of their families. With some fine tuning, anyone can find ways to spend more time with their children, spouse, extended families, and friends.

• Eat dinner together every night. Eating dinner as a family enables everyone to be a part of one another’s day and discuss important issues facing the family. According to The Family Dinner Project, eating as a family can boost kids’ academic performance, lower their risk of substance abuse and provide an opportunity for parents to gauge the emotional and physical well-being of their children.

Avoid activities that cut into dinner time and rearrange work schedules to accommodate nightly meals with the family.

• Switch work hours. Many employers understand the benefits of flex time. If possible, leave the office at 4 p.m. to make it home for family time, and then log back on remotely at 7 p.m. to finish the day’s work. Working from home also reduces commute time, which can free up more time to spend with loved ones.

• Put it on the calendar. Many families have to abide by a calendar to stay organized.

Family time may fall by the wayside unless it

is scheduled. Treat it as any important event so it becomes a priority.

• Work together. Family time need not be limited to recreation or leisure. Get the entire family involved in a chore or project so you can work together toward a common goal.

Landscaping, painting a room in the house or even grocery shopping are some examples of chores that can be turned into family time.

• Enjoy family media. Instead of retiring to separate corners of the house with tablets or mobile phones in tow, find a TV series everyone can enjoy together. Spend some binge-worthy hours seeing how stories unfold, taking time to discuss each episode when it ends.

Family time is something that takes work, but making it a priority can offer real benefits.

What is Giving Tuesday?

MetroCreative While Black Friday and Cyber Monday are some of the more widely known retail holidays, Giving Tuesday is becoming pretty popular in its own right.

Celebrated on the Tuesday following American Thanksgiving, Giving Tuesday helps raise awareness that charity is an important component of the holiday season.

The nonprofit services company Neon says nearly one-third of all annual giving occurs in December, with 12 percent happening over the final three days of the year. Giving Tuesday is positioned right in the midst of the most popular time for charitable giving.

What makes Giving Tuesday unique is that it is largely fueled by the power of social media and collaboration. The day was actually created by the 92nd Street Y, a cultural center in New York City that has been instrumental in bringing diverse groups of people together with the goals of giving back through service. The 92nd Street Y and the United Nations Foundation came together in 2012 to help form a day that was focused on the generosity of giving

during the holiday season. Thus, Giving Tuesday was born.

Technology and social media play a large role in uniting people for Giving Tuesday. Founding partners included Mashable, a technology website, Skype and Cisco. But the success of Giving Tuesday is thanks in large part to the general public, who have both spread the word and made their own contributions to charity.

In 2017, Giving Tuesday soared to new heights when technology mogul Bill Gates and his wife, Melinda, announced their foundation would match up to $2 million in donations to Giving Tuesday fundraisers started on Facebook. Facebook similarly waived its 5 percent fee for U.S.-based nonprofits all day long.

The global Giving Tuesday movement helped raise more than $300 million online across more than 150 countries in 2017 alone. This year, the Giving Tuesday organization is poised to top their numbers and continue to improve upon the more than 46,000 participating organizations involved in their charitable efforts. Learn more at www.givingtuesday.org.

Colonial Simplifies Your Holidays Submitted The season is upon us! Now that we have parties to host and gifts to give, don’t let the stress get to you, Colonial Wine & Beverage can help! With their newly renovated space, Colonial is the perfect spot to host your holiday party. Along with delivery options, their custom gift baskets are the perfect gift for friends and business associates.

If you haven’t seen their newly designed shop, Colonial has created a space that seems more appropriate to West 25th Street than an unassuming storefront. With vaulted ceilings, custom lighting and raw wood wall treatments, Colonial’s space will transport you to the rustic wine shop of your dreams.

Underneath their constellation of cafe lights, they have their always-exceptional inventory arrayed on mobile platforms so they can easily remake the space to accommodate any group up to 100 people. Combine that with their full-service kitchen, and you have

the perfect venue for hosting holiday parties with a full array of food and beer and wine options. Colonial does not charge for use of their space; the only charges are for beverages and food – which makes them a cost-saving option for business events or other social gatherings.

Beyond their retail offerings, Colonial also provides custom gift basket services.

Accommodating businesses requiring dozens of gifts or individuals looking for that special-something for a friend, Colonial will create and deliver your holiday gift basket at any price level.

Give the owner, Wes Cowie, a call to schedule your party or order baskets for your gifting needs – let the hospitality leaders of Chesterland make your holidays simpler and more joyful!

Colonial Wine & Beverage is at 8389 Mayfield Road in Chester Township. For more information, visit www.ColonialCLE. com or call 440-729-7303.

Holiday Shopping E x t r ava g a n z a

SAT. DEC. 8

9AM –3PM at The Kirtlander 9270 Chillicothe Rd., Kirtland • Free to public • 50/50 Raffle • Door Prizes • Refreshments

VENDORS call 314-585-8181/paulamichelleprice@gmail.com

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Geauga County Maple Leaf Special Section

Thursday, November 15, 2018

Chesterland Rotary Club Breakfast with Santa

Dec. 1, 8:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.

The Chesterland Rotary Club is again hosting its annual pancake and sausage “Breakfast with Santa.”

Families can join Santa and his special friends, Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer, face painters, elves and others at the West Geauga High School cafeteria, 13401 Chillicothe Road (state Route 306), Chester Township.

This is the 28th year for this community event. Attendees will dine on delicious, freshly-made pancakes with sausage, real Geauga County maple syrup, juice, milk and coffee. This is an all-you-can-eat event, with seconds and thirds included at no extra charge.

Tickets are $6 per person at the door.

Children under 1 years old are free.

The kids will light up in the arms of Santa, as they present him with their important lists. Parents can catch the moment with their own cameras or the Rotary Club will offer a framed 4-inch by 6-inch color photo of the moment for only $3.

Every child receives a free gift. There are loads of kids games to play, face painting, coloring, encounters with Rudolph the RedNosed Reindeer and seasonal music, too.

Families can start a new holiday tradition, while spending the morning with the whole family, grandma, grandpa and the kids, making memories and catching up with friends and neighbors.

Many families come back year after year as their way to start off the season (without fighting the mall traffic and prices).

In addition to tickets at the door, reservations can be made by sending a check to Chesterland Rotary Club, P.O. Box 722, Chesterland, Ohio, 44026.

Reserved tickets will be held at the door.

Registration forms are available at the library

and local schools.

This is a nonprofit event, with all proceeds going to cover event costs and Rotary community activities.

Winterfest Lights Up Parkside

Nov. 24, 5:30 p.m.

The Chesterland Rotary Club and the Chester Township Park District will host the seventh annual “Winterfest” at the Chester Township gazebo in the park at the corner of Mayfield and Chillicothe roads.

Community members will witness the transformation of the park into a holiday wonderland as the “switch is thrown” to activate the park lighting display for the holiday season.

Also included will be a roaring bonfire, free popcorn, hot cider and hot chocolate, live music, sing-alongs, plus a guest appearance by Santa.

This event is free and open to the public. It is recommended you dress warmly, because this is an outdoor event. In case of snow, there will be a snowman making contest.

In case of rain, however, the event will be canceled.

The Chesterland Rotary Club meets every Wednesday at 7 a.m. at ICASI (the International Culinary Arts and Sciences Institute) at 8700 Mayfield Road in Chester Township.

People interested in serving their community and making the world a better place are welcome to join them for breakfast and explore the possibility of membership.

Holiday Card Collection

The Chesterland Rotary Club is collecting new, unused holiday cards. They will be signed by guests at the Breakfast with Santa and sent to our service personnel, with the help of the USO. To donate, contact Reena Kanner at 216-218-9180.

Thursday, November 15, 2018

Geauga County Maple Leaf Special Section

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Fig Leaf Talks ‘Behind the Scenes’ on Coffee-Making

By Tom Nemeth Coffee has become such an important part of our lives. From the moment we wake up in the morning, coffee drinkers everywhere are looking for that hot cup of perfection to get the day going. The perfect cup of coffee takes a lot of “behind the scenes” work.

The process of getting coffee from the farm to your cup each morning may surprise you. Fig Leaf Coffee Company is dedicated to roasting and distributing high quality coffee for you to enjoy because it is our passion.

To provide you with a quick background of how coffee gets to your mug each day, I have included a coffee crash course. Coffee is considered a fruit as it has a seed in the middle of it very similar to a cherry. Normally, the coffee cherry has two seeds in the middle with the flat part facing each other. Coffee is mostly grown between the tropics of Cancer and Capricorn. The U.S. only grows coffee currently in Hawaii, however, some farmers in California are giving it a go. Once the coffee cherry is ripe, it is picked off the tree, processed (washed, fermented, flesh removed and dried), bagged and shipped off to a warehouse.

Coffee is light to dark green in color when raw and unroasted. This is where Fig Leaf Coffee steps into the picture. The coffee roasting process includes the use of special coffee roasting equipment in order to properly process the raw coffee. Roasting a batch of coffee takes between 10 to 20 minutes with another 10 minutes for cooling. There is truly nothing like tasting a fresh, properly roasted coffee and that is what we pride ourselves on at Fig Leaf Coffee Company.

Fig Leaf Coffee Company provides access to our fresh products through a retail

SUBMITTED

Fig Leaf Coffee Company is located in the West Geauga Plaza at 12628 Chillicothe Road, in Chester Township.

storefront, wholesale business and online.

Our roasting and retail facility is located in the West Geauga Plaza at 12628 Chillicothe Road, in Chester Township. Shop hours are from 10:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily and closed Thursday and Sunday. Another way to purchase our coffee is through our newest wholesale customer, Chagrin Cake Company, located in downtown Chagrin Falls, at 7 Franklin Street. This beautiful and elegant shop has a full espresso and pour-over coffee bar, ice-cream, cupcakes, cookies and other delicious treats made daily.

There is also space to sit and enjoy your delicious purchase with a friend. Please support local businesses and come visit Fig Leaf Coffee Company and Chagrin Cake Company today.

M

h r C i s tM a y r r e froM all of us at

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Chardon Welding, Inc. - AutHOrized deAler -

Propane - Welding Repairs and Fabrication - Metal Sales 344 Center Street, Chardon OH 44024 440-285-7569 • www.chardonwelding.com

Geauga County Maple Leaf Special Section

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Thursday, November 15, 2018

Non-Medical Home Care Helps Achieve Better Quality of Life Submitted Regardless of age, background or location, most people today have something in common: They want independence, freedom and quality of life.

FirstLight Home Care of Chardon/Northeast Ohio is designed to help adults achieve all those things.

FirstLight provides quality, affordable non-medical home care not just for the older adult who is aging in place, but also for other adults who need assistance with activities of daily living. FirstLight is a lifeline for seniors; people with disabilities; those recovering from surgery, illness or injury; and new and busy mothers.

“Non-medical home care fills the gap between medically-skilled services and the everyday tasks that a person is able to complete for themselves,” said Annette Smith, Owner of FirstLight Home Care of Chardon/Northeast Ohio. “Our services provide the resources needed to sustain our clients’ independence and freedom and help family caregivers maintain flexibility and balance in their own lives.”

Central to the FirstLight caregiving approach is a client-first philosophy that matches clients with caregivers who fit the personality, needs and vision of the client and family.

Caregiving partnerships are built on trust, communication and an understanding of a client’s needs.

“Our caregivers have been there and they understand the challenges families face when caring for loved ones,” said Smith. “FirstLight caregivers are direct employees, not contrac-

tors. Plus, we conduct thorough screenings and background checks, and every caregiver must complete our rigorous care training.”

Diverse Home Care Solutions FirstLight’s non-medical home care solutions provide support to people with a wide range of needs and the resources necessary to help adults maintain quality of life.

They include: • Personal Care, which aids with activities of daily living, such as bathing and hygiene, walking and mobility, transfer and posturing, special diets and meal preparation.

• Companion Care, which provides companionship through regular visits, as well as medication reminders, light housekeeping, laundry services, errands and transportation.

• Respite Care, which allows family caregivers to step out of their everyday routines and take time for themselves, while FirstLight professionals ensure loved ones are cared for.

• Dementia Care, which provides personalized care plans to help dementia sufferers and their families cope with the anxiety, confusion and isolation that are often associated with the disease.

FirstLight Home Care is a leading provider of non-medical home care, helping individuals achieve the quality of life they deserve.

Our professional caregivers can provide care at private residences, independent and assisted living communities and other healthcare facility settings.

This article is provided by Annette Smith, Owner, FirstLight Home Care of Chardon/Northeast Ohio. For more information, visit chardon.

FirstLightHomeCare.com or call 440-286-1342.

Make Party Hosting a Breeze MetroCreative

CHESTERLAND Tucked among the mature trees, this " farm" style home with 3 bedrooms, 1 1/2 baths. Built 1930. New septic to be installed TT. Updated, electrical, and roof being replaced. Additional small bldg., possible workshop, storage.

2 car garage. 3.4 acres 12581 Caves Road $208,000

for Homes the Holidays for years to come

RUSSELL/NEWBURY Wide open floor plan, walls of windows, office, master suite w/ 2 full baths and walk in closet. Total 3 bedrooms, 3 1/2 baths, 1st floor laundry, deck off great room. Additional 2 car garage or workshop, full basement. 2.5 acres cul de sac 10150 Charlton $365,000.

“My interest in houses is both large and small”

Reena Kanner

Allen F. Hainge Cyberstars International

216-218-9180

Serving Geauga, Portage NE Cuyahoga and Lake counties

Reenasells.com / www.Clevelandohiohomesource.com / Reenasells@att.net

Entertaining is a great way to show good will and friendship to others and to celebrate special occasions.

Many people can successfully throw parties, but hosting a great party takes a little extra effort. By following some tips, hosts can ensure their next party is one to remember.

• Stick to a theme. Many party hosts find that themes help in the planning. Themes make it easy to coordinate invitations, decor, food, and music. Guests also may enjoy dressing up according to the theme.

• Start making lists. Make lists regarding which foods you plan to cook, what you need to buy, who you plan to invite, and any other details that are floating around in your head.

Getting things on paper and checking off the list can help keep things moving.

• Do as much you can in advance. When hosting at home, spend the day prior to the party getting the house in order and making any food if the party will not be catered. If it will be catered, confirm with the catering company the delivery time and firm up any

other details. You’ll be far less frazzled if you space out your tasks than trying to squeeze them in a few hours before guests arrive.

• Expect early/late arrivals. Some people just aren’t punctual. Some may leave home too early and arrive well before the party starts, while others think “fashionably late” is showing up long after the party starts.

Have some easy-to-grab snacks so that early and late guests can munch while you finish your tasks.

• Stick to what you know. A dinner party or other event may not be the best time to get creative. Lean on recipes you’ve made before and can guarantee correct timing and flavor.

• Have a seating plan. Have ample seating available and consider assigning seats at formal affairs so guests can sit next to friends or like-minded fellow invitees.

• Spread out foods and beverages. Guests tend to bottleneck around the goodies. Ensure mingling and avoid traffic jams by having drinks and snacks in different locations.

These are just a handful of ways hosts can throw memorable parties where everyone has a good time.

Thursday, November 15, 2018

Geauga County Maple Leaf Special Section

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Get to Know Favorite Wines for Gift Giving MetroCreative A glass of wine makes a nice accompaniment to a meal or something to enjoy and sip while conversing with friends in social situations. Many people have a favorite style of wine, and some even have a favorite vineyard.

In addition, the popularity of wine makes it a versatile gift for the holidays or something to bring along to a holiday party as a hostess present.

Novice wine enthusiasts may be interested in learning more about wine so they can choose their wine selections for gifting and enjoyment more readily. According to the experts at Wine Enthusiast, learning to taste wine and differentiate between flavors is similar to appreciating art or music. Understanding the varietals can simplify the process of selecting wines.

• Cabernet Sauvignon: This is a full-bodied red grape heavily planted in the Bordeaux region of France. Cabernet generally has high levels of alcohol and tannins.

• Merlot: The smoothness and mild flavor of this red wine make it a great option for those who need an introduction to red wine.

This wine is lower in tannins than Cabernet Sauvignon, and it tends to have a more fruity flavor profile as well.

• Cabernet Franc: This is a light- to middle-weight wine that features a high acid content and savory flavors.

• Malbec and Carménère: Similar to Merlot, these grapes originated in France but then made their way to other regions of the world. Malbec is most popular in Argentina, while Carménère is grown in Chile.

• Zinfandel: Although mostly associated with the rosé wine White Zinfandel, Zinfandel is actually a medium-bodied red wine that originated in Croatia.

• Pinot Noir: Soft tannins and high acid give this light-bodied red wine its appeal. The grapes were first widely planted in France but can now be found elsewhere.

• Chianti: Chianti is the most famous Italian red wine in North America. It’s a dry red

that pairs very well with food. Chianti, which comes from the Chianti region in Tuscany, is made exclusively with Sangiovese grapes, or at least 80 percent of them and other blends.

• Chardonnay: This is a medium- to full-bodied dry white wine. The Chardonnay grape is a white grape from the Burgundy region of France.

• Sauvignon Blanc: Citrus-driven and often light-bodied, Sauvignon Blanc is another dry white grape planted widely in France. It also is a parent grape to Cabernet Sauvignon.

• Pinot Gris/Pinot Grigio: Pinot Grigio is a zesty, dry white wine that is particularly associated with Italy even though it originated in France, where it is thought to be a mutation of the Pinot Noir grape. Pinot Grigio skins are not green like other white grapes, but have a gray hue, hence the name.

• Reisling: Those who prefer a sweet white wine can opt for Reisling, which can be traced to Germany. It can be a good match for those who appreciate other sweet white wines, such as Moscato or Gewürztraminer.

There are many wines to tempt palates.

When gifting, the selections mentioned above can tempt foodies and budding sommeliers alike.

How to Time Holiday Shopping Right to Avoid a Hassle MetroCreative The holiday season begins at the end of November and stretches into the first week of January. But this five-week stretch may not necessarily be the best time for everyone to shop.

Harvard Business Review says that the retail industry has been turned on its head in recent years, and shoppers and retailers may want to rethink their approaches to the holiday shopping season. Consumers are no longer interested in retailers dictating their shopping schedules, and some people have grown accustomed to buying products when they want them — especially when price is of no concern.

Even budget-conscious shoppers have changed their habits, says the shopping advisor RetailNext. Many holiday shoppers are delaying their shopping until January to take advantage of post-season sales.

Holiday shopping need not wait until after the holiday season, either. A 2017 RetailMeNot survey found that 45 percent of U.S. consumers said they planned to start shopping before November 1. One-quarter of the survey respondents said they planned to start shopping before October, and 12 percent started shopping for the holidays in the summer.

So when should consumers do their holiday shopping? It all depends on what fits a person’s individual needs.

• Shop sales, not schedules. If budget is a big concern, shoppers should grab items that are on sale whenever they are available. That can mean shopping at any time of the year.

People can try making a master shopping list early in the year and saving it on their mobile phones. While shopping throughout the year, items from the list can be purchased and stored until the holidays.

• Shop your strengths. Those who get a thrill from tackling their entire shopping list in one haul can still do that. Shopping in this manner can help shoppers focus on the task at hand and reduce the likelihood of wasting time. But keep in mind that, according to a survey conducted by Business Wire, 65 percent of holiday shoppers scramble to com-

plete their purchases in the last two weeks before Christmas, so shoppers who delay may be stuck in long lines at the mall.

• Embrace in-store pickup. Many retailers are merging their online and brickand-mortar operations. Shoppers have the convenience of price-comparison and online shopping, with the physical enjoyment of going out to the store to complete their purchases. In-store pickup often enables shoppers to avoid hefty shipping fees, as in-store pickup is free. Plus, scoping out items online — and ensuring they’re in stock — saves the hassle of making a trip in vain.

Shoppers can look beyond the conventional holiday season to get the best prices and deals that fit their shopping needs.

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Geauga County Maple Leaf Special Section

Thursday, November 15, 2018

Great Gifts for Seniors MetroCreative

Every holiday shopper ends up with at least one loved one on their shopping list who they can’t seem to find anything for.

Some people seem to have it all, while others may be less than forthcoming with regard to items they may need or want.

Many seniors tend to fall into the latter category. Shopping for holiday gifts for seniors can be difficult if shoppers don’t know what seniors want. But the following are a handful of gift ideas that might make this holiday season that much more special for seniors.

Books

A 2015 survey from the Pew Research Center found that 69 percent of adults age 65 and over acknowledged reading at least one book in the previous 12 months. That makes books a good bet for shoppers who don’t know what to get their 65-and-over loved ones this holiday season. But shoppers might want to opt for more traditional print books rather than e-books, as the survey found that only 15 percent of readers age 65 and over had read an e-book in the previous 12 months.

Gym membership

According to the Office of Disease Prevention and Health Promotion, more than 80 percent of adults do not meet the guidelines for aerobic and muscle-strengthening activities.

That can be especially troubling for seniors, who are at greater risk for osteoporosis, a medical condition in which age-related tissue loss contributes to brittle, fragile bones.

Physical activity, including muscle-strengthening activities like weight training, can help combat osteoporosis. Family members stuck on what to get aging loved ones may want to consider gifting a membership to a local gym.

Many gyms offer heavily discounted member-

ships to seniors, and such gyms may even offer senior fitness classes at no additional cost.

Travel gifts

Many retirees love to travel, but not every senior has the means to take off for parts unknown. A 2013 survey from the Transamerica Center for Retirement Studies® found that 25 percent of retirees admitted they wished they would have saved more for retirement travel. Holiday shoppers can light up seniors’ smiles by gifting travel gifts this holiday season. One idea is to transfer airline miles to an elderly loved one so he or she can get a free or discounted flight. If that’s not a possibility, some new luggage or a Global Hotel CardTM sponsored by Orbitz®, a gift card that can be redeemed at 70,000 hotels across the globe, is sure to please.

Family time

Shoppers who are especially stuck on what to get seniors for Christmas can just resolve to spend more time with their elderly loved ones. Many seniors genuinely have everything they need, and such men and women may only want to spend more time with their children and grandchildren. Make a New Year’s resolution to spend more time with the special seniors in your life if the perfect gift is eluding you.

Verne & Ellsworth Hann to Give Away Free Furnace Submitted For the third consecutive year, Verne & Ellsworth Hann, Inc. will give away a free furnace, including installation, to a deserving member of the community.

Chris Hann, co-owner of the Cleveland Heights-based heating, cooling and plumbing company, is asking for nominations from the community and surrounding area.

“It has been our honor to install a new furnace, the past two years, to deserving homeowners,” said Chris. “Again, we want to share our good fortune by continuing to give back to the community that’s been so good to our family all these years. We are hopeful that members of the community will nominate themselves or someone they know that is without heat or has an old furnace and is in desperate need of a new one.”

This year’s winner will receive a new high efficiency heating system and installation, with a total value of up to $3,500.

Verne & Ellsworth Hann co-owners and brothers, Bill and Chris Hann, will select a handful of finalists and then make personal visits to their homes. At this time, they can identify any added costs, such as electrical or chimney modifications, that are sometimes necessary but are not included in the give-

away. A winner would then be randomly selected.

Verne & Ellsworth Hann, a five-generation family owned company, created the Helping Hann contest to help a family in the community in need of a new furnace.

“The Helping Hann free furnace contest is the highlight of the company’s year. We are grateful to provide heat for someone deserving and look forward to continuing the tradition,” Chris said.

Verne & Ellsworth Hann is committed to its customers and community. Located in Cleveland Heights for the past 65 years, Chris, Bill and their sister, Patty Siegfried, represent the family’s fourth generation in the trade. Fifth-generation nephew, Jason Franey, manages their service department.

Nominations are being accepted between Dec. 17 and February 28 of next year. You can obtain a nomination form by visiting the website at VEHbrothers.com or by calling the office at 216-932-9755 on or after Dec. 17.

Anyone who submits information will receive a $200 off coupon on an installation.

For more information on Verne & Ellsworth Hann’s Helping Hann free furnace giveaway, please visit www.vehbrothers.com/ helping-hann/.

Thursday, November 15, 2018

Geauga County Maple Leaf Special Section

A Tasty Take on Turkey Just In Time for Thanksgiving Perhaps no day is more synonymous with a certain dish than Thanksgiving is with turkey. As tasty as turkey can be, this flavorful fowl doesn’t find its way onto many families’ dinner tables unless it’s Thanksgiving day.

Secret family turkey recipes may reign supreme in some households, but holiday hosts with no such resources can consider this unique recipe for “Holiday Turkey” from Andrew Schloss’ “Cooking Slow” (Chronicle Books). By slow cooking the turkey, cooks can ensure it’s evenly cooked

Holiday Turkey

Makes 15 servings 1 fresh turkey, about 15 pounds, preferably free-range 1 tablespoon olive oil 1 quart apple cider 2 teaspoons dried poultry seasoning Coarse sea salt and freshly ground black pepper Remove the giblets from the turkey and discard (or save for another use). Rinse the turkey inside and out and pat dry with paper towels. Rub it all over with salt and pepper.

Refrigerate, uncovered, for at least 12 hours and up to 24 hours. During that time, the surface of the turkey will become visibly dry and the skin will tighten; this encourages a nice crisp skin on the finished bird.

Remove the turkey from the refrigerator 1 hour before you plan to start roasting. Preheat the oven to 450 F. Put the turkey on a rack set in a large, flameproof roasting pan. Drizzle the oil over the top.

Roast for 1 hour. Reduce the oven temperature to 175 F. Pour the cider into the roasting pan and sprinkle the poultry seasoning in the liquid. Continue roasting until an instant-read thermometer inserted into

the thickest part of a thigh (but not touching bone) registers to 170 F. Transfer the turkey to a carving board, tent loosely with aluminum foil, and let rest for about 15 minutes (see tip). Meanwhile, skim the fat from the surface of the liquid in the pan. Put the roasting pan over two burners and bring the pan drippings to a boil over high heat. Cook until the juices reduce and thicken slightly, enough to coat a spoon, about 10 minutes. Taste for seasoning. Carve the turkey and serve with cider pan juices.

Resting tip: Slow-roasted meats need far less resting time (pretty much none) than those that are traditionally roasted. The reason for resting meat that has been roasted at a high temperature is to allow juices that have collected in the cooler center time to migrate back into the dryer (hotter) exterior sections after it comes out of the oven. Because slow-roasted meats are cooked evenly and a temperature that keeps most of the juices in place, a resting period is largely unnecessary. A brief resting time does allow the meat to become a little firmer as it cools, making it easier to carve.

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Geauga County Maple Leaf Special Section

Thursday, November 15, 2018

Spiritual Christmas Traditions to Embrace MetroCreative The holiday season is a special and spiritual time of year. It can sometimes be easy to get lost in the more commercial aspects of the holiday season, and there’s certainly nothing wrong with shopping for gifts that will show your loved ones how much you love and appreciate them.

For those who want to focus back on the spiritual side of this special time of year, the following suggestions can help in those efforts.

Share the story of Christmas

The Gospels of Mark and Luke offer differing accounts of the birth of Jesus Christ.

Both indicate that Jesus was born to Mary, who was engaged to Joseph, a carpenter.

Mary became pregnant through immaculate conception, as she was a virgin when visited by an angel who informed her that she was to carry God’s son. At the time of Christ’s birth, all Jewish people had to be counted by Roman soldiers for tax purposes. That required

people to return to their places of birth. As a result, Mary and Joseph set out on an arduous journey to Bethlehem. Upon arriving in Bethlehem, inns had no vacancies, but Mary and Joseph were given shelter in a stable where Jesus was ultimately born.

Attend Mass

Churches traditionally hold religious services on Christmas Eve and Christmas.

These services are joyful expressions of faith, music and community spirit. But Christmas mass is not the only time to head to church.

During Advent, the four-week period preceding Christmas, Catholics prepare and repent.

Advent calendars help count down the days until Christmas.

Set out a nativity scene

Make a nativity scene the primary focus of Christmas decorations and encourage children to play with the figures and act out the Christmas story.

See Traditions • Page 11

Geauga County Maple Leaf Special Section

Thursday, November 15, 2018

Help a Veteran While Getting Ready for the Holidays Submitted Take time to help a veteran and get ready for the holidays. You can do it all at CCM Rental.

With the upcoming holidays, CCM Rental would like to wish you and your family blessings of the season. The staff would also like to remind you it is not too late to spruce up the house before your holiday celebrations.

CCM Rental has everything you need to complete those last minute projects before the holidays. Whether you need to strip wallpaper to give a room a fresh coat of paint, buff or polish the dining room floor before your big dinner or just clean your carpets, CCM Rental has everything you need to complete the honey-do-list.

In addition, while you are picking up a carpet cleaner, please consider helping those less fortunate. CCM Rental is proud to collaborate

with Sub Zero Mission this season to help homeless veterans through the cold winter.

Please consider contributing to this worthy cause with the donation of gently worn coats, hats, gloves, boots, sleeping bags and more. CCM Rental will be collecting items to help some of our country’s unsung heroes through the end of November.

When you stop in to donate, be sure to bring this article into the store with you for an opportunity to take advantage of the holiday special. With the article, you can purchase a $100 gift certificate for just $85.

The gift certificate can be used towards tables and chairs for the holidays, carpet cleaners, wallpaper steamers or any other equipment CCM rents.

Again, the staff would like to wish everyone a happy holiday season and encourage you to help a homeless veteran stay warm this winter. CCM Rental hopes to see you with your coat to donate and article to get the discount.

Insurance Policies for Everyone MetroCreative Insurance is something everyone needs but hopes to never use. Without insurance, already difficult situations could be made much worse and cause financial devastation.

Certain types of insurance may not be necessary for everyone, but other types are almost universally necessary regardless of the policy holder’s particular situation. The following are some examples of insurance policies everyone should have.

Health insurance

Everyone needs health insurance. The out-of-pocket costs for routine medical examinations can be quite high, and testing, hospitalization or surgery can take quite a toll on a person’s finances if he or she has no health insurance. In fact, a recent Harvard study noted that most people are statistically one serious illness away from bankruptcy.

Shopping around for adequate coverage and the most affordable plans for one’s situation is essential.

Life insurance

Life insurance is something most people will never benefit from personally, but it leaves a financial legacy for the people they love,

Traditions from page 10

Focus on gifts for good

Families can focus their energies on faithful endeavors and the spirit of giving that’s synonymous with the season. Do good deeds for others, embrace peace and love and share special time with others.

providing for those they leave behind. According to the financial resource Investopedia, individuals need to factor in mortgage or rent payments, loans, funeral expenses, child care, and taxes when calculating how much life insurance coverage they need. Experts suggest 10 times one’s yearly income.

Disability insurance

Many people do not believe they will become ill or injured. But the statistics speak otherwise. Data from the Social Security Administration show that three in 10 workers entering the workforce will become disabled before they reach retirement. Being off from work anywhere from a few weeks to a few months is enough to jeopardize one’s financial future. Short- and long-term disability policies provide partial and complete income replacement depending on the policy chosen.

Auto insurance

People who drive are urged to have auto insurance to protect themselves in the event of an accident or theft. Auto insurance also helps protect against any litigation as the result of accidents when a passenger or other driver is injured.

Insurance is a wholly necessary expense that provides peace of mind and protection.

Sing carols Spread the holiday spirit through song.

Get together with a group of friends or neighbors and go door-to-door, or hold a caroling performance at a centralized location. Select religious hymns, but also include some secular favorites.

The holiday season is a great time of year to reconnect with one’s faith and spirituality.

Page 11

Geauga County Maple Leaf Special Section

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Thursday, November 15, 2018

Celebrate the Holidays with Geauga County Public Libraries Extraordinary holiday programming and materials are a tradition at Geauga County Public Library. Check out all your favorite holiday stories, movies and music. The library has your favorite classics like “Miracle on 34th Street,” “It’s a Wonderful Life” and “A Christmas Story.” Family reading time is a sure hit with “How the Grinch Stole Christmas” and “‘Twas The Night Before Christmas.”

But you already know this.

Get in the spirit with the following programs:

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Upcycled holiday cards

Chardon Nov. 27, 6:30 p.m.

Crafty folks will have fun Recycling used holiday cards to create new ones.

Erie Heights Brass Ensemble

Newbury Auditorium Dec. 2, 2 p.m.

Head to the library after for crafts and a Santa visit.

Thompson tree lighting ceremony

Thompson Square (off-site event) Dec. 2, 7 p.m.

Join Santa for cookies, hot chocolate, and caroling. Sponsored by Thompson Friends of the Library.

Season of sweet treats

Bainbridge Dec. 3, 7 p.m.

Create a sweet party favor to start the season right.

Teen holiday crafts

Geauga West Dec. 4, 4 p.m.

Make delightful holiday crafts to keep or give as gifts.

The Grinch Steals Christmas

Various locations in Middlefield Dec. 8, 9 a.m. - 7 p.m.

The library will offer make-and-take crafts and fun projects.

Home for the holidays

Chardon Dec. 8, 1 – 5 p.m.

Stop into the library for treats, crafts, and picture in our photo booth.

Polar Express movie

Geauga West: Dec. 18, 6:30 p.m.

Bainbridge: Dec. 19, 4 p.m.

Both viewings include snacks.

That’s not all. Download or stream holiday music from hoopla while baking cookies with the kids. If you need to cook to impress, check out the library’s cookbooks and DVDs. Of course, you can count on the library for holiday storytimes and displays to get you in the spirit. The staff is at the ready to help you make the most of the holiday season.

GCPL wishes a peaceful and bright holiday season to all.

How to Choose a Christmas Tree Submitted

There’s nothing quite like the look, feel and smell of a real Christmas tree, but which type is right for your home this season?

Tree farms, lots and retailers across the area offer a variety of firs, pines and spruces, each with its own unique characteristics.

• Fraser Fir – Dark blue to green colored needles with a distinct bluish/silver color on the underside of the needles; soft to the touch, easy to decorate; very pleasant balsam fragrance; excellent needle retention.

• Canaan Fir – Very similar to the Fraser fir in its look and coloring; soft needles, easy to decorate; very fragrant; very good needle retention.

• Blue Spruce – Known for its radiant powdery blue to dark blue coloring; strong,

stiff branches that are good for heavy ornaments; sharp needles, so not easy to decorate as other types; good needle retention.

• Douglas Fir – Fine, soft green needles; distinctive pine-like scent; easy to decorate; good needle retention.

• Concolor Fir – Lighter green to silver blue coloring; unique citrus aroma when needles are rubbed; easy to decorate, strong branches; excellent needle retention.

• White Pine – Long, soft, flexible needles; full, fluffy looking; easy to decorate, but not good for heavy ornaments; very good needle retention.

• Scotch Pine – Bright green needles; full shape; stiff branches, easy to decorate; excellent needle retention.

Visit www.sugarpinesfarm.com/fresh-precut-trees/ for detailed photos of each variety.

Thursday, November 15, 2018

Geauga County Maple Leaf Special Section

Page 13

Store with Style Celebrates 10-Year Anniversary

By Cassandra Shofar cassandra@geaugamapleleaf.com

As Kathy and Tony Wallace see it, authentic customer service seems to be a thing of the past for most businesses.

But not theirs.

Store with Style, in Mentor, is celebrating a decade of providing just that — customer service that exceeds expectations.

“The customers, pure and simple, are what we love,” Wallace said in a recent interview via email. “It’s so satisfying to exceed our customers’ expectations. We excel at customer service and that’s what sets us apart.

From the first meeting, we treat every customer’s project as our ‘most important one.’”

Store with Style, at 8250 Tyler Blvd., is a total home organization company that focuses on solutions first, according to its website.

The store offers “expert designs and professional installation.” Its team works with homeowners to determine the best solution for their problem areas.

“What sets us apart from our competition is we listen. We don’t try to tell you what the best answer is unless we can completely understand your needs,” Wallace said.

Another aspect that sets Store with Style apart from its competition is the business is family owned and operated, Wallace said, recalling the year they decided to take the plunge and set up shop in Mentor.

“After 30-plus-year careers in the housewares manufacturing and distribution, we (Kathy & Tony) decided to stop traveling and spend some time meeting our neighbors and learning about our community,” she said.

“We were also tired of rarely feeling like a customer and decided to start a business that would allow us to ‘do business the right way, for the right reasons.’

“In 2008, we opened as Garage Outfitters and were focused solely on the garage organization business. With the recession

SUBMITTED

This is one example of Store with Style’s custom kitchen design center showroom, with Wellborn cabinets and Cambria countertops.

deepening, we diversified to add closet organization to our business in 2010,” Wallace added. “Things really took off in 2012, when we moved to our present location on Tyler Boulevard, changed our name to Store with Style, welcomed our two (master carpenter and cabinet builder) sons into the company — Aaron and Adam Wallace — and began offering kitchen and bath cabinetry to complete our home organization story.”

Wallace said they had steady growth the first few years and a 300 percent growth in

their company within the last three years.

“We are realizing our dream of creating a business that can be passed on to the next generation and serve Northeast Ohio for years to come,” Wallace said, adding their clientele ranges from areas in Lake and Geauga counties, Chagrin Falls and Solon, to Brecksville and Avon.

When customers walk into the family’s store, they can expect a “pleasant experience with people who are passionate and knowledgeable about their business,” Wallace said.

“They will deal with people who listen carefully and then work hard to deliver an ‘as ordered, on time’ experience. Working with the family both in the showroom and on the installation in their home ensures our customers have a consistent and professional result that keeps them coming back.”

Exterior services and products include garage cabinets and storage systems, wall and overhead storage solutions.

Interior products include custom closets, storage for home office and professional office spaces, laundry and mudroom, or other rooms often used.

Kitchen products include Cambria countertops and Wellborn kitchen and bath cabinets.

Looking back over the last 10 years, the Wallace’s recall some of the favorite projects they have worked on.

“One of our favorites was a longtime customer who is planning retirement and bought a home in Melbourne Beach, Fla.,” she said.

“They came into the store excited about their new home and wanted us to remodel the kitchen. After we explained that would be difficult with it being 1,200 miles away, they proceeded to produce airline tickets and had us as their guests for a weekend —which of course included a design and layout consultation for the kitchen. When we returned, we did all of the design work in our Mentor showroom, had the cabinets shipped from the factory to a dealer in Melbourne that handled the installation. The kitchen is beautiful and of course, we had to make a visit the next year to see the finished product.”

The Wallace’s have also enjoyed supplying closets for the YMCA Dream House and St. Jude Dream Home every year.

“Both of these projects are great fundraising events that serve children and families in Lake County and beyond with two organizations that are focused on building a brighter future for our children,” she said.

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Geauga County Maple Leaf Special Section

Thursday, November 15, 2018

Artisans Corner Gallery: The HeART of Geauga County Submitted What do we mean by the heART of Geauga County?

First and foremost, Artisans Corner Gallery is located in Newbury Township, at the corner of Auburn Road and state Route 87, right in the heart of this beautiful county.

Second, as you begin your drive to our art gallery, your heart will certainly be filled with joy as you take in the scenery and fall colors along the way.

Finally, as you push open the door to enter into the gallery, your heart might experience a slight flutter as your eyes quickly peruse over 3,500 square feet of color, sparkle and imaginative art created by over 100 local Ohio artisans.

Artisans Corner Gallery offers an extensive selection of different art mediums, including textiles, mixed media, pottery, jewelry, glass, porcelain, wood and metal works, watercolors, photography and so much more.

Your heart and imagination will speak to you in selecting an art piece or a special gift for yourself, family, friends or co-workers.

The selection has something for every budget with gifts starting at a few dollars and in-

creasing into the thousands of dollars.

Another feature of the gallery that warms the heART is the artistry in the professional custom picture framing service offered by 30-year framing veteran Monica Glasscock.

Perhaps you have a sentimental or cherished photograph, painting or another item that is a perfect candidate for a unique framing design to showcase your cherished possession and fill your heART with love.

What if your heart wants to express itself in the making of your own designed art creation in one of the gallery’s workshops or classes, which it hosts on a monthly basis. For more information on upcoming workshops and classes, please visit www.artisanscornergallery.com or the Facebook page Artisans Corner Gallery.

If your heART yearns to learn more about the stories behind the artists that are a part of the gallery, please be sure to visit the gallery on the fourth Friday of each month when it hosts an Art Open House from 6-8 p.m. featuring two to three artists each month, including an Artist Talk segment. The event is always free to the public and includes light refreshments.

Operation Evergreen Provides Opportunity to Support the Troops Submitted Sugar Pines Farm, located in Chester Township, has been a long-time destination for choosing and cutting the perfect Christmas tree.

Once again this year, visitors to Sugar Pines will also have the opportunity to help send some Christmas cheer to military personnel stationed overseas, by participating in Operation Evergreen.

Operation Evergreen is an annual service project of the Ohio Christmas Tree Association. The purpose of the project is to bring a little Christmas cheer, in the form of a real Christmas tree, to troops who are away from their families this holiday season. The OCTA plans to send about 150 trees, with ornaments, overseas to troops so they can enjoy touches of home within their units, on bases and in the rest and relaxation areas.

Sugar Pines Farm is one of many tree farms across the state that donates trees and collects donations to cover the cost of shipping the trees. The cost to ship each tree is

in excess of $100 per tree. Over 5,000 trees have been shipped to units serving overseas since the program was started in 1995.

In 2012, Sugar Pines Farm opened up the first “Feel-Good Field” at their farm. This special area contains a selection of small trees available by donation only, including “Charlie Brown” trees, cute table top trees and small live trees for planting.

The farm requests a minimum $20 donation for trees from this field, with 100 percent of the proceeds going towards Operation Evergreen.

Donations can also be made directly to Operation Evergreen through the Go Fund Me page, set up by the Ohio Christmas Tree Association, at www.gofundme.com/operation-evergreen.

Sugar Pines Farm is located at 9500 Mulberry Road in Chester Township and is open seven days a week from the day after Thanksgiving until sold out of trees.

For more information about the farm and/or Operation Evergreen, visit www.sugarpinesfarm.com or call 440-729-1019.

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Thursday, November 15, 2018

Geauga County Maple Leaf Special Section

Are Poinsettias Poisonous?

MetroCreative

Christmas trees, Santa Claus, menorahs, and glittering lighting displays are just a few of the many prominent symbols of the holiday season. And while mistletoe might garner more attention and inspire more displays of affection, poinsettias are another prominent sign that the holiday season has arrived.

Thanks to its bright red and green colors, the poinsettia is perhaps the ideal holiday plant. But as much as it suits holiday decor and seems tailor-made for that special time of year between Thanksgiving and the first of January, the poinsettia has a reputation that few plants would want.

First discovered in Mexico and brought to the United States by Dr. Joel Poinsett, the poinsettia has long been rumored to be poisonous. However, the National Capital Poison Center notes that poinsettias are not deadly. In fact, the NCPC notes that the rumor that poinsettias are deadly may have been around for more than a century, tracing its origins all the way back to a child who was found dead lying next to a poinsettia plant. The plant was blamed for the child’s death, and even though that blame was misplaced, the stigma stuck. WebMD

notes that others trace the false rumors surrounding poinsettias to 1919, when parents blamed the death of their daughter, who they thought had eaten poinsettia leaves, on this ubiquitous holiday plant.

Even today, when researchers have long since proven that poinsettias are not deadly, many people still believe they can be fatal if consumed.

The NCPC notes that, in most cases, exposure to any part of a poinsettia plant in children or pets has little, if any, effect. However, if the plant is swallowed, some people and pets may experience symptoms including nausea, vomiting or diarrhea. Some who touch the plant may develop a rash after contact.

While poinsettias are not deadly, the NCPC still advises those who plant to include the plant in their holiday decor to take every measure necessary to prevent children and pets from swallowing it. Placing poinsettias beyond the reach of kids and pets is one simple way to accomplish just that.

Poinsettias are seemingly everywhere come the holiday season. And because they’re not fatal, celebrants can continue to display these beautiful plants that call to mind the colors of the holiday season.

Do You Know the History of Kwanza?

MetroCreative Kwanzaa traces its origins to Africa and is celebrated across North America and other nations that have large populations that trace their heritage to Africa. The holiday begins on December 26 and continues until January 1. The main components of the celebration include family, community and culture. Kwanzaa was not designed to replace Christmas.

In fact, many Kwanzaa celebrants also celebrate Christmas. The word “kwanzaa” is from the Swahili phrase “Matunda ya kwanza,”

which means “first fruits.” Maulana Karenga, the professor who created the holiday in 1966, chose Swahili as the language associated with the holiday because it isn’t affiliated with a particular African region or tribe. At the heart of the holiday are seven principles that celebrants embrace and follow: unity, self-determination, collective responsibility, cooperative economics, purpose, creativity, and faith. Even though the holiday was created for African Americans, many other ethnic groups are inspired by the foundations of Kwanzaa and choose to join in the festivities.

Page 15

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Geauga County Maple Leaf Special Section

www.GeaugaMapleLeaf.com

Thursday, November 15, 2018

The Man Behind the Beard MetroCreative

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.

Thursday, November 15, 2018

Geauga County Maple Leaf Special Section

Page 17

The History of Black Friday Give the Gift of Peace and relaxation Black Friday reinvented MetroCreative

Black Friday marks the unofficial start of the holiday shopping season. Come Black Friday, shoppers strive to get the lowest prices on gifts for their loved ones.

Much of the focus of Black Friday is on finding the best deals, but it can be interesting to take a breath and learn how this phenomenon developed and how it has evolved over the years.

“Black Friday”

The term “black Friday” was originally associated with gold prices and manipulation on the part of speculators Jay Gould and James Fisk. This scandal occurred in September 1869. Commodity prices plummeted 50 percent as a result, and the term “black Friday” was coined to refer to that drop.

The phrase “black Friday” also became famous for all the wrong reasons in 1966. Philadelphia police used it to refer to the Friday traffic jams and crowding in downtown stores from tourists and shoppers who flooded into the city in advance of the Army-Navy football game held the Saturday after Thanksgiving each year.

Bigger crowds and rowdiness contributed to long hours and stressful shifts for local police.

The retail industry started using the term “Black Friday” in the late 1980s. Spin doctors turned previously negative connotations into positive ones by associating the phrase with stores turning a profit and moving accounting ledgers from “red to black” thanks to big year-end sales. Retailers and consumers rallied around low-cost “doorbusters” and other discounted prices.

Interestingly enough, according to the National Retail Federation, Black Friday really hasn’t been the most lucrative day for retailers over the years. In fact, greater profits and larger crowds are often seen on the last Saturday preceeding Christmas.

Shopping weekend evolves

While Black Friday may have been the catalyst, in recent years shoppers have made the entire weekend of Black Friday a lucrative one for retailers. Many stores now open on Thanksgiving and extend sales through the entire weekend. Small Business Saturday and Sunday promote patronizing mom-andpop stores. Cyber Monday emerged when online shopping became a popular way to grab deals, and it marks the close of the opening weekend of the holiday shopping season. In 2017, Black Friday weekend attracted 174 million shoppers who spent an average of $335.47, according to the NRF.

How to Buy Clothes as Gifts MetroCreative Holiday shopping lists are being made, and there is a strong chance that clothing has made many of those lists. Year after year, apparel, along with technology and books, dominate the top giving categories, according to Nielsen Global Holiday Spending Expectations. However, before rushing out to buy that new sweater or pair of slacks, shoppers are urged to follow a few tips that can make clothing shopping easier.

• Mimic the recipient’s sense of style.

Take your shopping cues from the types of clothing your loved one typically wears. Now is not the time to try to impart your own fashion sense on someone else. Enlist help if you’re not exactly sure of your loved one’s sense of style; retail associates are there to help.

• Stick with classics. Instead of mimicking his or her style, you can always select from classic apparel or general categories if they seem like they might be the right fit.

Certain pieces, such as classic black pants or a skirt or a camisole and cardigan, always work seamlessly in a wardrobe. A gentleman might appreciate a new dinner jacket or blazer for those special occasions like a night out on the town. Opt for muted colors unless the recipient to make a statement.

• Find out the right size. This can take some investigatory work, but enlist other

friends or family members to determine which size clothing your loved one wears.

Otherwise, do some subtle sleuthing. Indirectly inquire as to size in general conversation. Or you can be forthcoming and say, “I’d like to get you clothing as a gift, what sizes do you wear?”

• Discover his or her favorite stores.

Through your relationship, you may have learned about your loved one’s favorite clothing stores. Such knowledge can give you a better sense of where to shop.

• Get gift receipts and learn the exchange policy. Even items purchased with the best intentions might not be right or fit correctly. Give the gift recipient an easy out by including a gift receipt with the present.

This way he or she can exchange the gift for something else at full purchase price. Avoid retailers with especially stringent exchange policies.

• Enroll in a clothing subscription service. You don’t need to buy clothes to gift clothing. Another way to gift clothing is to enroll your loved one in a trial for a clothing service. Clothing services ask members a few questions, and then fashion specialists will choose select pieces to ship each month.

The clothing can be kept or returned for new items.

Clothing gifts are very popular. Gift-givers can help ensure they’re well received by selecting items with care.

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Page 18

Geauga County Maple Leaf Special Section

Thursday, November 15, 2018

Comfortable Winter Entertaining Ideas

MetroCreative Winter entertaining need not end once Christmas and New Year’s Day have come and gone. Getting together with friends and family is still possible even if the weather outside is frightful. When Mother Nature takes a chilly turn, those who don’t want the party can consider the following entertaining ideas.

• Indulge in sweet treats. Comfort foods can make even the most blustery winds easier to tolerate. Invite people over for a dessert party. At a dessert pot luck party, everyone brings along a favorite decadent dessert, from molten lava chocolate cake to warm bread pudding.

Serve alongside tea, coffee and hot chocolate.

Adults can enjoy the added punch of spiked beverages, which can warm everyone up instantly.

• Host a “snowed in” party. Spending a day cooped up inside when the roads are covered in snow might not be your idea of fun, but invite a mix of friends and neighbors who live nearby over, and this impromptu party can make the cabin fever disappear. Ask guests to bring one food item or beverage.

Light a fire in the fireplace and set out some cozy throw blankets. If possible, invite everyone outdoors to build a snowman.

• Get physical. Get physically active with friends or family members by staging mock Olympic events in the yard. These can be fun “sports” created by participants or variations

on fun winter activities.

• Get cooking. Cooking can certainly pass the time, and it can be even more enjoyable when done in the company of others.

Send out an invitation for friends to stop by for a meal or plan a meal prep party.

• Host a movie marathon. Handpick some favorite films and invite everyone over for a movie marathon. Fill the family room, home theater room or living room to capacity and host a group for a film fest. If space permits, set up one room with a children’s movie for youngsters, while the adults retire to another room for movies that are more their speed. A buffet table set up with assorted snacks will help keep bellies full while guests watch some favorite flicks.

Try Home Brewing as a Hobby MetroCreative The rise of craft breweries and niche wineries has probably caught the attention of those who like beer or wine.

The Brewers Association says two breweries open per day in America and three-quarters of Americans of legal drinking age live within 10 miles of at least one brewery. Establishments have popped up in neighborhoods across the country, and many inspire a new crop of enthusiasts who want to try crafting their own brews and vintages at home.

Home brewing has been done for centuries.

In fact, both George Washington and Thomas Jefferson were home brewers. Just a few years ago, home brewing — particularly of beer — started surging across the United States. The American Homebrewers Association reported the number of U.S. homebrew shops peaked at 820 in 2016. As more people discover the ease and creativity involved with brewing their own beer and wine, there’s a strong chance more home brewers will be born.

Anyone looking to jump into home brewing will find there are many resources at their

disposal. Brew shops are now in many towns, and they can provide space, equipment and resources to help novice brewers get on track.

Retailers provide items that can be purchased a la carte or in specially designed beginner kits. As individuals become more experienced with brewing, they can vary the ingredients and experiment with their own flavors.

Both beer and wine are fermented using yeast. There are many different varieties of yeast that perform well in beers and wines.

Temperature and sanitation are very important to the brewing process. To ensure quality beverages, all items need to be thoroughly sanitized to prevent natural yeasts and contaminants from impacting taste. Ambient temperature can influence how fast the product will ferment and the final flavor.

Brewing wine or beer at home can be a rewarding hobby. People can learn how to turn ingredients into flavorful alcoholic beverages, socialize with others who share the same interests and produce beverages that align with their individual tastes.

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Thursday, November 15, 2018

Geauga County Maple Leaf Special Section

How to Cook for People With Various Dietary Needs MetroCreative Breaking bread with friends and family is the perfect recipe for a fun day or evening.

However, even the most experienced party hosts may struggle with ways to cater to their guests’ various dietary restrictions.

According to Food Allergy Research & Education organization, as many as 15 million Americans have food allergies. Research by a team of allergists at the McGill University Health Centre found that 7.5 percent of Canadians report having at least one food allergy.

In addition to food allergies, hosts also must consider diets, food sensitivities, religious preferences, and lifestyle choices (i.e., vegetarianism or veganism) when planning dinner party menus. So what is the accommodating host or hostess to do? Etiquette experts say that while it is important to keep guests’ preferences in mind, it is impossible to accommodate everyone. But hosts can take certain steps when planning a menu that might make it easier to cater to an array of eaters.

• Host a buffet or family-style meal. Buffets and family-style services provide plenty of options for guests to enjoy. Think about offering at least one item from all of the food groups, including vegetables that will fit the

bill for vegetarians, vegans and those who may be avoiding grains.

• Keep some trendy foods on hand. Consider current dietary trends and how likely your guests are to follow them. For example, investigate a few gluten-free options and some foods that are low in carbohydrates.

Opt for quinoa or couscous as an alternative to white rice. A hummus dip is a nice change from a dairy-based dressing for those who may need to avoid dairy products. Replace iceberg or romaine lettuce with baby spinach and arugula.

• Stick to simple recipes. The more ingredients in each dish, the more explaining you will have to do to guests who might be watching what they eat. Herb-crusted grilled chicken, roasted colorful vegetables in a ratatouille, a bean salad, and a three-cheese gourmet mac-and-cheese are some simple crowd-pleasers.

• Offer a signature dish. In addition to “safe” menu items, showcase something you enjoy and like to prepare. After all, you should be able to enjoy the foods you love as well.

Some guests may come with food in hand. Graciously accept their additions and give credit where credit is due. You can even encourage those with especially strict diets to bring their own foods to ensure they don’t go hungry.

How to Vet Charities Before Giving MetroCreative Donating to a favorite charity or charities is a great way to make a difference in the lives of people that need a helping hand.

Choosing a charity to support can be a difficult decision, as many organizations are in need and worthy of your charitable dollars.

Learning how to vet charities can help prospective donors make the best decisions in regard to which charities to support.

• Do your research. The holiday season tends to be the most popular time to give, but charities accept donations year-round.

That said, the holiday season may serve as a great reminder to give. If you plan to give this holiday season or during any time of year, resolve to research charities rather than make knee-jerk donations when the impulse to donate strikes.

The Better Business Bureau’s Wise Giving Alliance has reviewed more than 1,000 charities, assessing each on a host of factors that include organizational oversight and program effectiveness. Such reviews are free to access and can help donors rest easy knowing they made informed donation decisions.

• Volunteer with an organization. Another way to vet a charity is to volunteer with it.

This hands-on approach can give a first-hand glimpse in to just how effective a charity’s

programs are and how the organizations directs donations. In addition, volunteering has been linked with improved happiness and provides a great way to meet people.

• Look into the organization’s financials. A charity’s financial filings are public record. In the United States, donors can look on Form 990 in the organization’s filing with the Internal Revenue Service (equivalent forms are accessible in Canada as well).

This form indicates if a charity finished the year with positive or negative assets. If it’s the latter, the charity might be suffering from mismanagement or legal troubles that are preventing it from meeting its mission statement. That’s not the case in every instance, but it should at least present a red flag to would-be donors.

• Speak with representatives of the charity. Many charities will happily speak with prospective donors. Such organizations will be specific regarding how donation dollars are spent, including where your donation will be directed should you decide to go forward.

Many will even allow donors to dictate how their donations will be spent, as many donors want to know their money is going toward programs and not organizational operating costs.

Vetting a charity is a wise move for donors who want to make sure their money is truly benefitting those in need.

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Geauga County Maple Leaf Special Section

Thursday, November 15, 2018