Pizza continues to remain a popular comfort food and go-to staple for quick, family-friendly meals. Statistics Brain reports that 93 percent of Americans eat at least one piece of pizza per month. Five billion pizzas are sold worldwide each year, and the United States accounts for three billion of those pizzas. The average person will eat 46 slices of pizza each year. The world can thank Raffaele Esposito for creating the first pizza that resembled the pizza the world knows today. Esposito created the pizza for Italy’s Queen Margherita when she visited Naples in 1889. The crust was garnished with tomatoes, mozzarella and basil to represent the national colors of Italy: red, white and green.
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200,000 Print Readers
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President Steve Harrison
General Manager
Manuel Karam
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PO Box 340 • 1471 Route 15 Avon, NY 14414 • Fax: 585-226-3390
Periodical Postage paid at Pittsford Post Office and at additional mailing offices.
POSTMASTER:
Send address changes to: Genesee Valley Penny Saver PO BOX 340, Avon, NY 14414-0340
HOLIDAY WORSHIP
polltime
Christmas Eve Service
Wednesday, December 24th • 5pm
St. Mark Lutheran Church
779 Erie Station Rd., West Henrietta Divine Service Dec. 25th - 10:00am
In Autumn 1621, Wampanoag joined English settlers at what is now Plymouth, MA to mark a successful harvest. Over the years, that harvest evolved into what we now recognize as the “First Thanksgiving.” Traditions may differ across the country, even across town or households, but typically, people pause and give thanks for the people and opportunities in their lives. This year, what are you most thankful for?
- Family, friends, and the people who support me
- Health and overall well-being
- Work, stability, and new opportunities
- Community, connection, and the ability to gather
- Personal growth, resilience, and hope for the year ahead
Poll ends 12-9-2025
Poll ended 12-2-2025
Autonomous vehicles continue to be tested and explored in increased realworld environments across the country and world. What is your perspective on the place of autonomous vehicles in the near and far future?
5.0% They’re the future. I expect widespread adoption soon.
poem of the week
Submitted by a local reader as part of our annual Pen-A-Poem contest. Share your thoughts at gvpennysaver.com/hometown
Light of Winter
By Shawn Palermo
Winter comes creeping while I am asleep; Crystals of snow beginning to leap. ey dance in the moonlight like gi s from above Painting the fields and the woods and the land that I love.
In the morning I rise and the beauty I see Fills me with hope at this land will stay free.
15.0% They will grow steadily, but remain a mix with human-driven vehicles.
15.0% They are useful in certain situations, but limited use overall.
10.0% I’m skeptical. Major safety and ethical issues remain.
55.0% I don’t support autonomous vehicles at all.
Vote and make your voice heard when you visit WWW.GVPENNYSAVER.COM!
October gave a party; The leaves by hundreds came,—
The Ashes, Oaks, and Maples, And leaves of every name.
The sunshine spread a carpet, And every thing was grand; Miss Weather led the dancing; Professor Wind, the band....
The sight was like a rainbow New-fallen from the sky.... ~George Cooper (1840–1927), “October’s Party,” c.1887
I love you SO much. This year, I really want a dinosaur toy.
Love, Andy (age 3)
I am always nice to my big sister, Ava. I helped my mommy put the decorations on the house. I helped daddy rake up the leaves. Could you please bring me a haunted Barbie house with all the people? Or I would like the toy dog that you can feed and then it poops and you have to pick it up and you can walk it. Thank you, Santa.
Love, Emma U. (age 4)
This year, I want a flamingo that poops out jellybeans.
Love, Amelia (age 5)
This year, I would like any Hess truck I don’t have yet, please.
Love, Robbie (age 9)
Please bring me new stuffys. I would also like new books. I need a new piggy bank, because mine is full! May I please have a new bicycle without training wheels. I have been a good girl this year.
Love, Harper (age 5)
I love you. Please bring me a Spiderman that lights up in the dark. You don’t have to bring my dogs a present, because I already picked up presents for them. Ho ho ho.
Teddy W. (age 5)
I tried my best to be a good girl this year! I’ve drank my milk and took my vitamins too, and I’ve done my very best to listen to mommy and daddy, but I don’t care too much for veggies… I’ll try better on the veggies this coming year! I’m hoping you’ll bring me a Thomas the Tank Engine toy for Christmas! Thanks, Santa!
Edith (age 2)
I would like a fish tank, cars, belt, LEGOs, magic.
Love, Vito (age 6)
I have been a good boy this year. Do your reindeer like carrots? A Squirtle battle set for Christmas. Please and thank you.
Austin (age 6)
I want hunting stuff. See you in four weeks.
Jacob (age 9)
I think that I have been good this year. For Christmas, I would like a Barbie and a scooter and a coloring book. PS make sure my house is the last house you visit. The trap master is back :-) Mackenzie (age 6)
Hi. I love you. I would like a tablet, a toy horse, a Labubu. Please. I will leave you cookies.
Love, Ada (age 6)
Our young readers let Santa know just how good they’ve been this year!
I want for Christmas is a toy car, Bills football, toy TV, I want to tell you Santa is your elfs and reindeer are being good.
Will (age 8)
Can you bring me a OMG doll for Christmas. And a LOL doll for Christmas. And a Barbie doll. Thank you, Scarlet F. (age 6)
I have been very good this year! I have done lots of good deeds. Here are some of the things that I’ve done… I help my class make their ant projects. I have also helped my pa and gi in the garden. I help my dada in the shop. Also with getting the eggs. I help my mama in the kitchen. Sometimes, I help my sister clean her room. I enjoy helping other people. Some things I want for Christmas are… Well fit clip making kit. Next a foot bath and escape room. And a trip to the Polar Express train and an Easy Bake oven. Thank you for reading my letter and Merry Christmas.
Chloe (age 8)
My name is Lisa. I’ve been a good girl this year. I would like a new case for my cell phone. I also want two new dresses, underwear, and socks. Also, you can surprise me with gifts. Bills blanket. Please keep warm and feed the reindeer.
Lisa (age 63)
We are 9 year old twins, Lily and Lana. We don’t know our grandpa. We was two months old when he died. Our gramma Tia really misses him this time of year. Since we have everything, will you please heal our gramma‘s heart? We love her so much. We hope this note to you will make her smile.
Thank you, Lily and Lena (age 9)
I am always nice to my little sister, Emma. I help mommy and daddy pick up the playroom. If you think I have been good, I would like a Barbie dream house with a pool with all the dolls and the mom and dad. And the Barbie camper. Have a merry Christmas and also thank you.
Love, Ava U. (age 6)
I hope I have been good this year. What I want for Christmas is a chicken. I will leave you a gift and cookies.
Love, Blaire (age 7)
I have been good. I want a Labubu and a tablet and makeup and a good Christmas. Ada has been mean to our dog, Zuri. Please bring Zuri presents too. Love Josie. PS I love you. Hi Josie (age 7)
I have been good at school. I helped Max build the mini Christmas tree. Please leave a chalkboard. Thank you.
Bennett (age 6)
I have been good this year by getting two 100s in ELA and science. For Christmas, I would like for my family to be happy, healthy and would love to go to Seabreeze/Great Wolf Lodge again with my family.
Thank you, Talia (age 10)
I’ve been very good all year. I helped my mom and dad. I helped put up the decorations on the Christmas tree. I moved my Jeep and tractor to be stored for the winter, so the batteries don’t die. Please give me a brand new Jeep to ride… A Jeep with lights. Thank you, Santa Claus!
Leland (age 4)
I have been a good boy this year. I want a PS5. Please. And a level up Rekt executive gaming chair. I love you, Santa.
Love, Carter J. (age 7)
I’ve been a good friend. I helped do laundry and stack wood! I would please like slime, a bike, gel pens, purple notebook, and a Buffalo Bills dress. Please bring my brothers presents too. I will bake you yummy cookies :)
Bristol (age 6)
I have been very good this year. I let my dog out and I feed my dog every day. I feed my fish too. What I want for Christmas this year is a karaoke machine. Merry Christmas.
Lilah (age 8)
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I’ve been a good listener by turning my ears on for mommy and daddy. I’ve been kind to my family. Every day, I am helpful to my new baby twins. For Christmas, can you please bring me a toy squirrel that doesn’t make noises and princesses? Thank you and I love you, Santa.
Love, Isla (age 4)
I have been very good this year! Some things that I did this year was helping clean, doing my homework, practicing lacrosse, and doing good in school! For Christmas, some things that I want is a lacrosse draw stick, USA wall ball lacrosse club sweatshirt, goat USA sweatshirt, and pajama pants, twinkle lights, and a lacrosse draw post! Thank you!
Love, Claire (age 10)
I’ve been very good this year! What I’m hoping to see under the Christmas tree is a Labubu! Price: 37.35. Hope you can get it and I take good care of Trina, one of your elves, and I bought another one of your elves. I named him Max. Hope Trina comes soon. Tell her I love her and to come soon (I already have Max!) Hope it’s chilly down there!
Aubry Anna Rose (age 9 in a quarter)
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215 Summit St., Batavia, NY 14020
2601 Lac De Ville Blvd, Ste. 200B, Rochester, NY 14618
229 Parrish St., Ste. 250, Canandaigua, NY 14424
585-577-4354 and toll free 844-226-4948
Dr. Paige Helfer Owner and Dr. of Audiology
GiveTake&
GUIDELINES: Submissions published as space allows. We reserve the right to decline/edit/omit info. We assume no responsibility for submissions. Submissions must include phone # or email. Noncommercial use only. 20 word limit. Please call to remove listing once item is taken/received.
FREE STUFF OFFERED FREE STUFF WANTED
• Two WOOD TOBOGGANS. Ogden. 585-509-9902
• New, unused MINIATURE DOLL HOUSE FURNITURE. Avon. 585-313-6394
• OAK DRESSER. Pick up Geneseo. Bruce.jean.Bennett@Gmail.com
• So Clean Device for C-PAP users- New, never used. Newark. jzornow001@gmail.com
• COMPUTER DESK: Single drawer, upper cupboard, can text picture. Approximately 50” H x 24” W x 43” L. Nice condition. Canandaigua. jamesrrahm@aol.com
• 7 1/2’ pre-lit CHRISTMAS TREE, most lights work. Pick up in Caledonia. 585-330-6457
• RABBIT HUTCH, 44”L x 36”W x 40”H. Pick up Farmington. Text 315-601-7520
• 40 issues of FINE HOMEBUILDING, 25 issues FAMILY HANDYMAN MAGS. Great building and fixing guides. Pittsford. pcarney44@hotmail.com
• HESS TRUCKS, 2014 & 2015, in boxes, perfect condition. Just in time for Xmas. Scottsville. 585-889-4259
• STAMP COLLECTION, Many US mint condition, various years & numerous Foreign cancelled, most over 60 years old. Scottsville. 585-889-4259
• Craftsman 10 inch RADIAL ARM SAW . Runs very well. bernieb15625@yahoo.com or 607-329-2977
• COUCH. 585-813-8587
• Paper ROAD MAPS - multiple states. Visitors guides for TX, MT, MI, CO, Golden Isles, GA, ADK. Victor. Text 585-754-1275
• Healthy, small HOUSEPLANTS. Please call 585-394-4790
• MULTIPURPOSE CLOSET – Rack to hang clothing, two shelves for display and two drawers for storage. Heavy. Pick up Henrietta. 585-315-9345 or 585-334-2576
• PREMIUM MAXIMUM BLADDER CONTROL UNDEWEAR from Because. Three packages, 10 pairs, size 5XXL One bag Prevail ADULT UNDERWEAR, size 3. Pittsford. 585-200-4393
• Beautiful METALLIC SILVER CHRISTMAS TREE. About 4-1/2’ T. Pittsford. 585-415-9360
• Bach UPRIGHT PIANO. Batavia. 585-993-5156
• 18 CASSETTE TAPES - mostly Christmas songs and country. Pick up Canandaigua. 585-394-9305
• KEURIG coffee maker, M50. Not working, Use for parts or repair. Pick up W. Henrietta. 585-334-0077
• YARN needed to make prayer shawls and lap robes for cancer patients. 585-313-6394
• Great big WOODEN CABINET suitable for storage, BINOCULARS and a small, portable, foldable PIANO or ORGAN. 585-424-0732
• HATS: Hat collections for display. Baseball Trucker Style with advertising. 585-766-8842
• GUITAR, any kind as long as it plays in tune. Dings or dents are fine. Showe@rochester.rr.com 585-690-0367
• Looking for CANANDAIGUA ACADEMY YEARBOOKS, before 1961 and after 1972. Call 585-394-4790
• PET ITEMS: Dog & Cat Food, Cat Litter, Flea Medication - Advantage or Frontline. shld4th@gmail.com
• ROCKER RECLINER. 585-471-4424 or 585-531-4004
• 4-step ALUMINUM STEP LADDER. E-mail only Suesassy1231@gmail.com
• LAPTOP, used, unwanted. For senior citizen. stan1k1@yahoo.com
• Any BUFFALO BILLS stuff, men’s WINTER HAT & GLOVES, pair of men’s WINTER BOOTS size 8 or 9. 585-415-8513
• BABY GATES for house with special needs child. 585-506-8132
• UPRIGHT FREEZER in good condition and small LIVING ROOM END TABLES in good condition. Text 585-749-2432
• 6’ square VINYL SHED and a used Ferris Zero Turn LAWNMOWER w/60” deck. 585-201-3444
• LYNXX BATTERY - 40VDC 2.5 Ah Lithium Battery Pack. New or used. 585-367-2849 or 585-500-0112
• SPORTS ILLUSTRATED MAGAZINES. No texting. 585-377-0878
It’s important to expect the unexpected when embarking on home renovations. Budgeting for hidden costs, expecting delays and coping with the upheaval to daily schedules are par for the remodeling course. However, the end result is often well worth the time and effort.
Over 25 years’ experience.
• Power Washing • Gutter Cleaning • Interior Painting • Exterior Painting No job too small!
Home Services Mark’s
Fairport, New York 585-690-1670 HANDYMEN/WOMEN
Alex Korol, Owner
• Custom full Kitchen and Bathroom Remodeling
• Custom Deck and Deck Railing Solutions
• Custom Wood Projects
• Basement Remodeling
• Professional Tiling
• General Repairs - Plumbing, Electrical,Carpentry
- All types (Driveway Stone, Drainage Stone, Pea Stone) Sand - Mason, Pool, Concrete/Fine Screened Topsoil Quality service. Competitive prices. earthworkstruckingLLC.com
According to WorldAtlas.com, the largest city park in the world is Bosque de la Primavera in Guadalajara, Mexico. At 74,132 acres, Bosque de la Primavera is more than 14,000 acres larger than the world’s second largest city park, Table Mountain in Cape Town, South Africa. Bosque de la Primavera features the Rio Caliente, a geothermal river, and is home to a massive nature reserve inhabited by wild animals. The largest city park in the United States and fifth largest such park in the world is the McDowell Sonoran Preserve in Scottsdale, Arizona. The McDowell Sonoran Preserve includes 180 miles of hiking trails within its 27,800 acres. And while it might be one of the most recognizable city parks in the world, New York City’s Central Park is not counted among the world’s 20 largest city parks, despite estimates that it draws more than 40 million visitors each year. However, it is one of the most visited places in the United States.
In gardens, beauty is a by-product. The main business is sex and death. ~Sam Llewelyn
TREE SERVICES
Trees may require pruning for a variety reasons. Storms may have damaged branches, necessitating a pruning. In other instances, trees may have outgrown their yards, overpowering the landscape.
Autumn and winter, when trees largely go dormant and fallen leaves make it easier to see the branches beneath, may be prime times to prune. Pruning during the dormant period also minimizes sap loss and stress to the tree, and can help cut down on the growth of fungi. In addition, insects are less likely to be problematic during the colder months of the year.
• Stump Grinding Starting at $50! • Tree & Shrub Trimming, Cleanup Forestry Specialist on staff. We use
homeowners do not exercise caution. Following some simple safety procedures when decorating with lights can ensure everyone enjoys a safe and
holiday season.
OTHER home services FEATUREDBUSINESSES
STRANGE BUT TRUE
is a real word in the Oxford English Dictionary, though in “The Simpsons” scripts, it’s rendered merely as an “annoyed grunt.”
Each numbered row contains two clues and two answers. e two answers differ from each other by only one letter, which has already been inserted. For example, if you exchange the A from MASTER for an I, you get MISTER. Do not change the order of the letters.
All real estate advertised in the Genesee Valley Penny Saver is subject to the Federal Fair Housing Act, which makes it illegal to advertise any preference, limitation, or discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, age, marital status, handicap, familial status, or national origin, or intention to make any such preference, limitation or discrimination. We will not knowingly accept any advertising for real estate which is in violation of the law. All persons are hereby informed that all dwellings advertised are available on an equal opportunity basis. Fair Housing Enforcement Project Monroe County Legal Assistance Center 1 W. Main St., Rochester, NY 14614 (585) 325-2500 • www.lawny.org
By Lucie Winborne
* Homer Simpson’s famous “D’oh!”
Brighter
ank You
Many thanks to all those who donated to the food pantry to help our neighbors in need during the SNAP funding crisis. Your support is impressive and your generosity knows no bounds. Thank You! We cannot do all the good that our neighbors need, but our neighbors need all the good that we can do.
The Geneseo Groveland Emergency Food Pantry
Generosity Abounds
There are good times and not so good. With the SNAP benefits going away it leaves many people low or without food. Many pantries are being swamped with people who need food to feed their families. In Avon, and I know many other towns, the good outweighs the bad. People are stepping up their donations to the pantry. It renews our faith in humankind. So many people are so giving. Thank you to not only commercial businesses, but the DeHond family who have a great produce stand on Bronson Hill Road and have been donating fresh vegetables by the truck load for most of the summer. Among the giving are the individual families who reach deep into their pockets to help others. A HUGE thank you to all.
Volunteering
I would like to thank ALL of the volunteers for many different services they provide and do! You are appreciated very much! May God Bless You All!
Respect for the Arts
Theater actors and musicians put in an incredible amount of time and training to hone their craft. The shows and concerts that are performed are the result of their efforts. We as the audience need to show more respect to these people. Using phones in the theater is disrespectful. Wearing pajamas is disrespectful. Let’s do better in our support of the arts.
Drivers & Pets
Drivers, just so you know, dogs can’t drive! They don’t belong on your lap while driving. That’s dangerous and could cause an accident. Smarten up.
Deer Hunter
Please stop hanging your gutted deer right next to the road. I’m sure you’re proud. You want to show off. Many parents driving by with children in their cars do not appreciate seeing your kill. It’s not your place to teach others what they should or shouldn’t be exposed to.
hometown events
There’s so much happening at your local libraries!
East Rochester
Public Library
317 Main St., E. Rochester, NY (585) 586-8302
www.eastrochester.org
M 9-7; Tu-Th 9-6; F 9-5; Sa 10-2; Su Closed ERPL Book Nook: Open M, W & Sa 10-1
Fairport Public Library
1 Fairport Village Landing, Fairport (585) 223-9091
DO turn off Christmas lights before going to bed or leaving home. Lights left on can overheat and cause fires. Electrical distribution or lighting equipment was involved intwoofeveryfivehomeChristmas tree fires between 2011 and 2015, according to the National Fire Prevention Association.
1 C granulated sugar 1C + 3 tablespoons so shortening 1 teaspoon vanilla 2C crushed almonds 3 1/4 C flour Jam
Knead and mix all ingredients well. Roll thin and cut with cookie cutters. Bake on ungreased cookie sheet at 350 degrees for about 20 minutes or until lightly brown. Take 1 cookie and spread with jam. Place matching cookie on top and dip in sugar. Note: Bake all cookies first, then fill with jam and dip in sugar. A memorable German cookie. (melt in your mouth sandwiches)
Guidelines for Hometown Events
To Post Your Event:
Log in and submit your event online at www.gvpennysaver.com/calendar or in person at: 1471 Route 15, Avon, NY 14414
Submit your event by the Monday 2 weeks prior to publication date.
Events must occur on a specific date and time. Event submissions may not include businesses or schools seeking registration for classes or programs, or organizations seeking crafters, vendors, or item donations. Genesee Valley Penny Saver reserves the right to approve/reject events for publication. Events are published as space allows.
HENRY A. WARD Pittsford’s Pioneer of Holiday Wonder
BY KAYLEE DUDA
WhileHenryA.Wardisbestrememberedasanaturalist and founder of Ward’s Natural Science Establishment who supplied museums, colleges, and universities with cabinets full of curated collections of models and casts of specimens across the country, his influence extends beyondthescientificworld.Inalesser-knownchapterof his life, Ward played a pivotal role in creating a holiday tradition in Pittsford, blending his passion for science with his love of community. His efforts to celebrate the festive season in an educational and enchanting way have le a legacy that continues to resonate.
Born in Rochester in 1834, Ward had an insatiable curiosity about the natural world from a young age. His interests took him on expeditions across the globe, where he collected fossils, minerals, and natural specimens for prestigious institutions, including the Smithsonian. Known for his meticulous work and contributions to science, Ward gained national acclaim. However, his connection to Pittsford, and his role as an unlikely holiday icon, came later in life when he purchased a grand estate in the town. Ward’s Pittsford home was more than just a residence; it was a sanctuary for his extensive collection of natural wonders. Fossils,
crystals, and rare minerals
filled the rooms, creating a museum-like atmosphere. Yet, Ward didn’t see his collection as something to keep behind closed doors. He believed in sharing his passion with others, especially children, which became central to his holiday celebrations.
In the late 19th century, Ward began hosting holiday openhousesathisestate,invitingfamiliesfromPittsford and beyond to experience the magic of both nature and the season. While the focus of these gatherings was educational, Ward transformed his home into a winter wonderland that combined science with holiday spirit. Evergreen garlands adorned the walls, crystal decorations sparkled like ice, and in a particularly groundbreaking move for the time, Ward introduced one of the region’s first illuminated Christmas trees.
he ing -like
Yet, thin
e illuminated tree became a centerpiece of his celebrations, drawing visitors who marveled at the so glow of electric lights, a novelty in that era. However, it wasn’t just the decorations that made Ward’s events so special. His passion for inspiring wonder was evident in every detail.
He demonstrated how light refracted through his crystal specimens, creating dazzling patterns he described as “nature’s ornaments.” Children and adults were captivated by his ability to blend scientific knowledge with holiday enchantment.
For the young guests, Ward’s events were particularly memorable. He gi ed small fossils and minerals to children, sparking curiosity and a lifelong appreciation for the natural world. ese thoughtful gesturesturnedafestivegatheringintoanopportunity for learning and discovery, making Ward’s holiday celebrations as unique as they were joyful.
ough Ward’s life was tragically cut short in 1906, the spirit of his holiday gatherings lived on. For years a er his death, his Pittsford estate continued to serve as a site for community events, echoing the warmth and wonder of the celebrations he had once hosted. Over time, his contributions became woven into the fabric of Pittsford’s holiday traditions, where the blending of beauty, history, and community remains a cherished value.
Today,HenryA.Ward’sinfluenceisevidentintheway Pittsford celebrates the holidays, with an emphasis on togetherness, creativity, and a sense of wonder. While his name might not be as widely recognized during the festive season, his unique approach to blending science and celebration serves as an enduring reminder of what the holidays are truly about.
Share your original stories about local heroes, community events, school achievements, or hidden gems–email your story idea to hometown@featuredmedia.com!
Ward’s story offers a deeper perspective on the season’s meaning. Beyond the twinkling lights and festive decorations, his gatherings were about sharing knowledge, fostering curiosity, and bringing people together. In doing so, he created an environment where the beauty of nature and the warmth of community could shine equally bright.
His legacy is also a testament to the power of combining passion with generosity, reminding us that the festive season is not only a time for joy but also an opportunity to inspire, educate, and connect with one another. As the holidays approach and the lights begin to twinkle, we can look back on Ward’s unique blend of science and celebration and find inspiration to create our own meaningful traditions.
WARD’S WHALEBONE ARCH. CREDIT: RMSC
CHRISTMAS TRADITIONS AROUND THE WORLD
Christmas celebrations span the globe. According to a 2025 report from the Center for the Study of Global Christianity at Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary, there are roughly 2.6 billion Christians worldwide, a figure that undoubtedly contributes to the popularity of Christmas. Plenty of unique touches set Christmastime celebrations apart across the globe.
ROLLER-SKATING TO MASS
In the city of Caracas, Venezuela, it’s customary for Christmas Eve celebrants to roller skate to early morning Mass. Known as “Misa de Aguinaldo,” these special church services take place on the days leading up to Christmas, with the most festive held on December 24. On this day, the streets of Caracas areclosedtoautomobiles,enabling revelers to cheerfully skate to church.
SPIDERWEB DECORATIONS
Individuals in Ukraine decorate theirChristmas treeswith artificial spider webs. This tradition is inspired by a tale of a poor widow and her children who didn’t have money for tree ornaments. Upon waking up on Christmas morning, they found their tree covered in sparkling, glimmering spider webs that resembled tinsel. A spider had spunthebeautifuldisplayasthanks for finding shelter and warmth in the family’s humble abode.Today’s spider webs symbolize unexpected blessingsandgratitude.
YULE GOAT
The Yule Goat is a Christmas tradition in Sweden. The goat is believed to be an invisible spirit that ensures thatYule preparations aredonecorrectly.Apopulartheory connects the goat to the Norse god Thor, who rode a chariot pulled by twogoats.
MUMMERING
In Newfoundland, Canada, celebrants known as mummers dress in elaborate disguises featuring mismatched clothing and whimsical accessories. The mummers obscure their identities and visit neighbors’ homes during the 12 days of Christmas, performing songs, skits or dances while others attempt to guess their identities.
CHRISTMAS CHICKEN
Christmas Eve is a popular romantic occasion for couples and families in Japan. In addition to gi -giving and a romance, many people choose to feast on a meal of KFC fried chicken and strawberry shortcakefordessert.
KRAMPUS
While many people celebrate the benevolence of Santa Claus, some celebrate a much grumpier alterego of sort. Krampus is a mangoat, half-demon monster who punishes misbehaving children at Christmastime, says Britannica. He is the evil companion of St. Nicholas, and is believed to have originated in Germany. His name comes from the German word “krampen,”whichmeans,“claw.”
LAS POSADAS
In some Hispanic regions, including Mexico, participants reenact Mary and Joseph’s search for shelter in Bethlehem through vibrant processions. They travel from house to house, singing traditional songs and requesting shelteronlytobeturnedawayuntil they reach a final home or church that will symbolically welcome themin.
pet place
Polly
is a one & a half year old Cavapoo. She loves everyone she meets and sleeps on our bed every night. She’s a sweetheart who loves all her toys and puzzles.
SIGNS YOUR PET HAS FLEAS
Pale gums: Pale gums are a sign of anemia and indicate that a pet has a severe flea infestation. The dog or cat simply cannot reproduce red blood cells as fast as they’re drained by voracious fleas.
Send us a photo! and a brief write-up of your pet and we’ll feature it! Submit at: gvpennysaver.com under Share With Us or mail to: P.O. Box 340, Avon, NY 14414. Pets will be published at discretion of GVPS.
By Sam Mazotta
Why are cats such finicky eaters?
DEAR PAW’S CORNER: I find it weird that my two dogs, “Shep” and “Bull,” can eat just about anything (I have to hide all the pet food), while my cat “Trudy” will turn up her nose at most food. And although she’s perfectly healthy, sometimes she gets sick after eating wet or fresh food. Why? -- Sarah in Madison, Wisconsin
DEAR SARAH: Cats’ eating behaviors have long been a source of curiosity for both pet owners and the scientific community. Why do they turn their nose up at certain foods and chow down on others? Why do they sometimes throw up after eating? Why do they gnaw on grass when they’re meat-eaters?
The answer is: It’s complicated, and no one is entirely sure. A 2015 study, for example, found that cats have some genes that are more commonly possessed by herbivores (animals that eat only plants, like cows). These particular genes help them detect bitter flavors, alerting them to potentially poisonous plants.
This research opens a new avenue into understanding why cats are more picky about their food than dogs -- also meateaters -- tend to be. If cats are detecting a bitter taste in their food then they may be less inclined to eat it. And, a bitter taste also may trigger a vomiting response to safeguard against ingesting what is perceived to be poison.
The study’s results could lead to changes in how commercial producers formulate their cat food. Whether that is a good thing remains to be seen.
In the meantime, feeding a finicky cat remains a trial-anderror process.Try small amounts of different foods -- dry, wet and fresh -- and note Trudy’s likes and dislikes.
Foxglove: According to The Spruce: Decor, foxgloves are among the most toxic specimens commonly grown on landscapes. They are widely coveted for their pink, purple and white bell-shaped flowers that grow in tall spires. They’re also deer- and rabbit-resistant, making them especially popular. However, foxgloves contain potent cardiac glycosides that can be lethal in high doses
Photo flip book: Thanks to the popularity of digital photos, families may no longer print out copies of their photographs. However, various apps from major photo-printing providers enable users to put together photo flip books and other photo gifts right from their smartphones that seniors will love.
SENIOR NEWS LINE
By Matilda Charles
Social Security increase... not much
An informal poll of friends and neighbors got me a range of responses, from grimaces to laughs to snarls. My question was about how they were going to spend the approximate extra $56 that Social Security beneficiaries will be receiving as of January when the new COLA kicks in.
That 2.8% increase in the average Social Security benefit ($2,071 for individuals, $3,208 for couples) won’t get us much when compared to what is happening in the grocery stores -- and everywhere else.
We have been complaining about this for years: the Cost of Living Adjustment price index (CPI-W) that’s used to calculate Social Security increases doesn’t apply to us. Instead, we keep saying, they should use the Research Consumer Price Index (R-CPI-E), which is more in line with how seniors over the age of 62 actually spend money.
And then there’s the wee problem of Medicare Part B also going up -- again -- from $185 this year to $202 for 2026. That amount has to be subtracted from the $56 increase,which means an actual $38 increase in Social Security.
There is, however, a movement afoot in Congress to give us a temporary (six months) increase of $200 per month from January to July 2026. Called the Social Security Emergency Inflation Relief Act, the proposal is being batted around in Congress at this point. The bill (S.3078) text says it would provide payments to “recipients of social security, supplemental security income, railroad retirement benefits,and veterans disability compensation or pension benefits.”
I asked, in my informal poll, what they would do with that extra $200 per month should the proposal pass: stick it in savings for an emergency ...pay off a medical bill ...turn up the thermostat ...buy a good winter coat. The responses ran the gamut of possibilities, which says one thing: We need that money.
Breaking Down the Difference Between a Cold and Influenza
DEAR DR. ROACH: What is the difference between a cold and the flu? -- A.T.R.
ANSWER: Both colds and influenza (the “flu”) are respiratory illnesses that are caused by viruses. Influenza is caused specifically by the influenza viruses, which come in two main types (A and B). Influenza A is further broken down into different subtypes based on hemagglutinin (H) and neuraminidase (N).
H1N1 and H3N2 are currently the most-common circulating influenza A viruses. Even within these subclasses, there is strong variability among flu viruses, which is one reason why we need a new flu vaccine each year.
Many viruses cause colds. Rhinoviruses (“rhino-” is the Greek word for nose) are the most common, but corona-, parainfluenza- and enteroviruses, as well as respiratory syncytial viruses, are all well-known causes of respiratory illnesses, which can be difficult or impossible to tell apart from any other type of cold.
Unfortunately, there are so many of these viruses, some of which change quickly and others that escape our immune system, so it is (so far) impossible to get immunity by an infection or a vaccine to all the cold viruses. Viruses are generally less severe than influenza.
It isn’t always easy to tell flu from a cold, especially in young people. Both can cause a fever, cough, runny nose and sore throat. However, the flu often causes muscle aches, which can be severe. The flu tends to cause higher fevers, more cough and worse headaches, and it often comes along suddenly. (“I got hit by the flu truck.”) Runny nose and nasal congestion tends to be worse with a cold.
Since there is specific antiviral treatments for influenza, clinicians will sometimes make decisions on whether to treat a person based on their symptoms, or they may get a lab test to look for the flu specifically. (Some tests will also check for COVID-19, a special type of coronavirus, at the same time.)
People who are at a high risk for severe flu may be recommended antiviral treatment, whereas there is not a specific antiviral treatment for colds. It’s particularly important for people over 65 and those with any heart, lung or immune system issues to get the influenza vaccine. The optimum time to get it was from October through the end of November.
DEAR DR. ROACH: What do we now call what was once referred to as a “nervous breakdown” in the 20th century? -- A.M.
ANSWER: I asked this question to my psychiatry professor way back in the late 20th century when I was a first-year medical student. My professor replied that the term didn’t have a meaning anymore. There is no formal medical or psychiatric diagnosis of a “nervous breakdown.” The term is used by laypeople to describe when a person has severe impairment of their day-to-day function as a result of a psychiatric diagnosis, especially mood disorders like generalized anxiety disorder or major depressive disorder.
An adjustment disorder may resemble a major depressive disorder, but it occurs within a few months of a traumatic life event. A severe case might also be termed a “nervous breakdown.” It is not usually used to describe a person with acute psychosis (a term meaning a grossly distorted sense of reality), such as a person with schizophrenia or bipolar affective disorder in their acute and uncontrolled state.
All these conditions have effective treatments. Treatment starts by talking to someone, who might be your own regular doctor or a mental health professional. For people who are in acute distress with thoughts of hurting themselves, the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline is an option in the United States and Canada.
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Mini sleighs: Create miniature replicas of Santa’s famous sleigh. Paint several popsicle sticks to form the main body of the sleigh and glue them together. Put one at the top perpendicular to the others to serve as the steering rudder. Two silver-painted popsicle sticks placed on their thin sides act as the blades of a sled.
By Fifi Rodriguez
1. TELEVISION: Which TV sitcom features a French bulldog named Stella?
2. GEOGRAPHY: What is the capital of Algeria?
3. MUSIC: Which famous song starts with the line, “I read the news today, oh boy ...”?
4. MOVIES: Who wrote “Hedwig’s Theme,” the main music in the Harry Potter movies?
5. FOOD & DRINK: What is the origin of popcorn?
6. HISTORY: Where was Napoleon Bonaparte exiled to after his defeat in 1815?
7. LITERATURE: Who wrote the novel “The Sound and the Fury”?
8. ANATOMY: What are the smallest blood vessels called?
9. GENERAL KNOWLEDGE: In what year did the international version of TikTok launch?
