2016 Suncoast Holiday Guide

SUNCOAST

Holiday Guide

GIFT GUIDES

FOR HIM AND FOR HER

HOLIDAY PARADES

BROADCAST LIVE ON SNN!

LOCAL EVENTS

CAROLS AND CLASSICS AT THE CROSLEY

WBTT BLACK NATIVITY HOLIDAY SPLENDOR AT THE RINGLING

SPIRIT

OF THE

SEASON

HELPING OTHERS

TECH GIFTS HOLIDAY SHOWS

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Fall/Winter 2016

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Welcome

from the Station Manager

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s the holiday season draws near, the Suncoast News Network would like to welcome our viewers and friends to the 2016 edition of “Suncoast Holiday Guide,” a magazine focusing on the Charles Cusimano Sarasota, Manatee, and Charlotte county community.

You’ll find stories about holiday events and activities, gift giving, shows and concerts, and ways to help others — many of the things that make our area so special to those of us who call it home.

As we celebrate the holidays with friends and family, our thoughts often turn to those in need; to those who would have only a meager holiday, or no holiday at all, without help. Our community has always been there for the less fortunate through volunteering and financial support for our worthy charitable organizations whose services sustain and uplift so many lives.

Our station’s commitment to the community includes supporting many of these local organizations by donating air time and raising public awareness regarding the important work they do. We also take very seriously the responsibility to keep our viewers informed of local news, weather, and sports, and our staff is committed to providing the 24/7 coverage you deserve.

As always, we’d like to hear from you. Whether you watch SNN on Comcast (Channels 6 and 400HD), Frontier (Channels 9 and 509HD), DISH Network, or over the air on Channel 39 you can join us on Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, or online at snntv.com to share your opinions.

I hope you enjoy “Suncoast Holiday Guide” and from all of us at SNN, we wish each of you a very happy holiday season.

Charles Cusimano Station Manager Suncoast News Network

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SUNCOAST

Holiday Guide 6

Inside Gifts 4 Gifts for Him 5 Gifts for Her 8 Tech Gifts 11 Terrific Toys for the Holidays

Holidays 9 SNN News Team: Favorite Holiday Shows and Movies 10 Westcoast Black Theatre Troupe Black Nativity 14 Holiday Cuisine from Around the World 16 Live Holiday Entertainment 18 Make a Difference this Holiday Season 19 Historic Spanish Point Holly Days & Mangrove Lights 19 Holiday Parades on SNN 20 Decorating for the Holidays 21 Hanukkah — Modern Celebrations 22 Carols and Classics at the Crosley 22 Jingle Paws Jubilee

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Spirit of the Season 12 The Humane Society of

Sarasota County 12 Suncoast Charities for Children 13 Goodwill Manasota

Holiday Fun for the Whole Family 6 Lights in Bloom at Selby Gardens 6 Sailor Circus Presents High Flying Holidays 7 Singing Tree at First Sarasota Baptist Church 7 Holiday Splendor at the Ringling 7 Holiday Nights at Ca’d’Zan

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“Suncoast Holiday Guide” is published for Suncoast News Network by Harvest Moon Publishing LLC which neither endorses nor is responsible for the accuracy of, any errors, omissions, or mistakes in, or the reliability of any opinion, advice, statement, information or other content contained in this publication. Under no circumstances will Harvest Moon be held responsible or liable, directly or indirectly, for any loss or damage caused by use or reliance on any content contained in or available through this publication. It is your sole responsibility to evaluate the accuracy, completeness, or usefulness of any content contained in or available through this publication.

6-Pocket Armrest Organizer with Tray Top

Photo courtesy of Bed, Bath and Beyond

Six storage pockets keep remotes, newspapers, magazines, eyeglasses, and books within easy reach. Top tray provides a stable surface. In black and tan. $9.99 in select Bed, Bath and Beyond stores and/or online at bedbathandbeyond.com.

eTape16 Digital Tape Measure

This high-tech tape measure provides easy and accurate measuring with digital readouts and functions. It calculates midpoints, converts to different formats (inches to centimeters, fractions to decimals), stores results, and more. $29.95 at thegrommet.com. Now available with Bluetooth for $49.95.

Photo courtesy of The Grommet

This desktop planetarium illuminates ceiling and walls with an accurate display of 61 constellations and 8,000 stars. The Earth slowly turns (you control the speed) to reveal different stars in the night sky and you can play your choice of star-gazing music with the built-in Bluetooth speaker. $129.95 at hammacherschlemmer.com.

Photo courtesy of Hammacher Schlemmer

8,000 Stars Home Planetarium

Photo courtesy of The Grommet

GIFTS FOR HIM

Blade Buddy Razor Blade Sharpener Blade Buddy restores your razor’s sharpness and prolongs the life of the blades, giving you a closer shave for months instead of days. It’s quick and easy — just swipe the blade on the surface. $17.95 at thegrommet.com.

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Treasured Passages Letter Book

GIFTS FOR HER

This guided scrapbook for mothers and daughters prompts you to share your memories, experiences, activities, cards, letters, and more. Over time, you’ll have a priceless history of your relationship and your lives that families can keep forever. $40 at thegrommet.com.

Lori Greiner Deluxe Cosmetic Organizer Box Keep all of your cosmetics in one place, right at your fingertips. Designed by Shark Tank star Lori Greiner, this organizer holds more than 200 items. Wood veneer construction. $99.99 in select Bed, Bath and Beyond stores and/or online at bedbathandbeyond.com.

Photo courtesy of The Grommet

SOI Handbag Light Stop rummaging through the dark recesses of your handbag. This 1.5 ounce light makes searching a matter of sight, not touch. The light turns on when it senses your hand and turns off automatically when you’re finished.

Easy to transfer from one bag or backpack to another. $29.95 at thegrommet.com.

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Photo courtesy of The Grommet

Photo courtesy of The Grommet

Photo courtesy of Bed, Bath and Beyond

Taxi Wallet This ultra-slim classic leather wallet is compact enough to put in a pocket yet holds the essentials.

Interior security pocket, two currency pockets, outside pocket, and change pouch hold cash, cards, coins, and a spare key. Available in solids, prints, and graphic designs. $49 at thegrommet.com.

Holiday Fun for the Lights in Bloom at Selby Gardens

Sailor Circus Presents High Flying Holidays

This year the number of lights at this popular event has doubled to more than one million, creating an extraordinary, immersive holiday experience. There will be some new surprises; old favorites including Santa’s Workshop and One million lights will illumine the grounds the Wishing Tree; and this year at Selby Gardens. holiday magic as you stroll through the illuminated gardens surrounded by colorful flowers and brilliant-hued butterflies in the trees. The Lauren Mitchel Band — back by popular demand — will provide nightly entertainment, and desserts and holiday beverages will be available for purchase.

Tickets: $25 guests, $20 members, $7.50 children ages 4-17, children under 4 are free. You can also opt for “Selby Experience” passes that include reserved parking, early admission, open bar, cocktail buffet, and holiday desserts.

Adults $100, children ages 4-17, $30. For information go to selby.org.

Your whole family will love Sailor Circus’ annual holiday production. The show will feature exciting circus acts performed by talented young Sailor Circus Academy students, ages 8 to 18. Each student has put in countless afterschool hours training with dedicated coaches, volunteers, and international Students from the Sailor Circus Academy will perform in High Flying Holidays. circus artists.

The spirit and dedication of these young performers has made Sailor Circus shows among the most popular events in our area.

Tickets: adults $20, children $15; available now at the box office or online at circusarts.org.

Monday, Dec. 26 to Thursday, Dec. 29 at 2 p.m. and 7 p.m.

Photo by Norm Schimmel

Dec. 16-23 and Dec. 26-30 from 6-9 p.m.

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Whole Family 43rd Annual Singing Tree at First Sarasota Baptist Church Sunday, Dec. 4 at 3 p.m. and 6 p.m.

Wednesday, Dec. 7 at 7 p.m. | Friday, Dec. 9 at 7 p.m.

Saturday, Dec. 10 at 3 p.m. and 6 p.m. | Sunday, Dec. 11 at 6 p.m.

This popular event is back in all its musical glory. The 30-foot-tall “tree” consists of thousands of lights and more than 100 choir members. It’s a Sarasota holiday event like no other.

You can purchase tickets for $15 at firstsarasota.org.

Right: The Singing Tree is one of Sarasota’s popular holiday events.

Holiday Splendor at the Ringling Thursday, Dec. 1 from 5-8 p.m.

Get into the spirit of the holidays and support the U.S. Marine Corps Reserve Toys for Tots program at the same time.

During extended evening hours guests can enjoy holiday music and performances by local school children on the Museum of Art Courtyard and Bolger Campiello, with special performances in the Ca’d’Zan.

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The Museum of Art, Circus Museum, and Ca’d’Zan (first floor only) Local school kids perform in Ringling’s will be open for viewing Museum of Art courtyard. until 9 p.m.

Admission is free for each guest bringing a new, unwrapped toy, which will go to needy children in Sarasota and Manatee Counties. Toys may be purchased in the Museum Store.

Without a toy, admission is $10 for adults and $5 for children. Food and beverages will be available for purchase until 9 p.m.

Holiday Nights at Ca’d’Zan

Thursdays, Dec. 1, 8, 15, 22, 29 from 5-8 p.m.

Explore the elegant beauty of Ca’d’Zan in its holiday finest — festive fireplace mantels, balconies, doors, and a Enjoy the beauty of Ringling’s Ca’d’Zan spectacular 10-foot-tall decorated for the holidays. tree in the Grand Court.

Free with Museum admission or “Art After 5” admission. For tickets and information go to ringling.org.

PlayStation VR Just out this holiday season is the Sony PlayStation VR for PS4 users. The price is $399 for the headset, necessary hardware, and cables to use with your PS4, controllers, and PlayStation camera.

TECH GIFTS Fitness Trackers

All-New Amazon Fire HD8 Tablet Amazon is offering an HD tablet for just $89.99. Eight-inch HD display; fast quad-core processor; up to 12 hours of battery; rear- and front-facing cameras; 16 GB storage (expandable); stereo speakers with Dolby Audio; plus Alexa (which is coming soon). Available in blue, black, magenta, or tangerine at amazon.com.

These wrist-worn devices track the number of steps you take, running distance, stairs climbed, calories burned, swim laps, heart rate, sleep patterns, and more. Spend as little as $35 for a basic model or as much as $1,000, with plenty of good choices in the $90 to $250 range.

Sensorwake Olfactory Alarm Clock This clock wakes you gradually — in two minutes time — to the aroma of your choice: espresso, chocolate, peppermint, toast, and others. Each recyclable scent capsule lasts for 30 wake-ups. Comes with “toast” capsule; others available for $5.45 each. Available at sensorwake.com for $109.00.

Photo courtesy of Sensorwake

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FROM THE SNN NEWS TEAM

Favorite Holiday Shows & Movies We asked the SNN News Team, “What is your favorite holiday movie or TV special and why?” Here’s what they said.

Grant Boxleitner

means, then something or someone comes along at the end — after several mishaps — and opens their eyes and heart! I fall for it every time!

My favorite holiday special is “Christmas in Rockefeller Center.” Every year, I enjoy the musical guests performing some of the holiday favorites, along with the lighting of the giant Christmas tree.

It always gets me in the holiday mood and really kicks off the season.

Justin Mosely

News Anchor

Kathy Leon News Anchor

I know it sounds silly but can’t really say I have one favorite holiday movie, I love them all! From “Miracle on 34th Street” (the black and white version) to the old stop motion “Santa Claus Is Coming to Town,” or even the cartoon “Grandma Got Run Over by a Reindeer,” I will sit and watch them all at one point or another from the time they start on November 26th until the 26th of December. I love the holidays, especially Christmas, and all the emotion and sense of hope and goodwill it always brings.

Let’s face it, there is a lot of bad news we hear about daily, and for me these gems are my escape. I have to say though, I discovered the Hallmark channel’s lineup about two years ago, and find that I am gravitating to their original movies more and more! Predictable, yes: woman, man, (or elf), has lost their sense of what the holiday really

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Chief Meteorologist

Each year I have a few must-sees to watch during the holiday season! Number one goes back as far as I can remember — Dr. Seuss’ “How the Grinch Stole Christmas,” by far my favorite animated TV special! This instantly takes me back to the comforts of childhood and really helps kick-start the spirit of the season for me. A very close second would be “National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation,” guaranteed to always bring a good laugh. And last but certainly not least, a nearly lifelong tradition, Macaulay Culkin’s “Home Alone,” another quintessential holiday classic. His cleverness never gets old!

Trevor DeGroot Sports Director

As tempted as I am to go with a classic such as “It’s a Wonderful Life,” “A Christmas Story,” or “A Charlie Brown Christmas,” the one that I can’t get enough of is “National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation.” Despite all the chaos happening around him, the hysterical Clark Griswold, trying to bring the holiday spirit to his family Christmas in his own wacky way, always has me smiling.

Black Nativity

The Westcoast Black Theatre Troupe

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lack Nativity, presented by The Westcoast Black Theatre Troupe (WBTT), has become an uplifting mainstay of the Sarasota holiday season. This vibrant, musical celebration of the Nativity story combines gospel, blues, folk spirituals, and Christmas music with dance, Langston Hughes’ poetry, pantomime, dialogue and narrative to present an Afrocentric perspective.

The production’s powerful delivery of both the sorrows and the joys of the African-American experience has inspired audiences of all colors and backgrounds.

Black Nativity debuted off-Broadway in 1961 based on a script by Hughes, was made into a movie with a top cast in 2013, and is now presented annually in theaters across the country.

This WBTT creative and high-energy adaptation by founder and artistic director Nate Jacobs is performed by a talented cast, sending a spirited message of joy.

This year’s Black Nativity will run from Wednesday, November 30 to Friday, December 23 (check website for show times). Tickets: $42 for adults; $30 for students and active military (with valid ID).

Call the Box Office at 941-366-1505 or go to westcoastblacktheatre.org for more information.

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Terrific Toys for the Holidays It’s the time of year when parents start thinking about finding toys their kids will love. To help with the challenge, we went to the experts at Toys “R” Us for a few tips. Here are some of their ideas for this season’s hottest toys.

Hatchimals Egg Brand Hatchimals are interactive magical creatures that haven’t hatched — yet! They’ll do that when you love and take care of them.

When your creature hatches, you’ll see it for the first time.

For ages 5 and older. $59.99.

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Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles Talk-to-Me Mikey

Imaginarium Metro Line Train Table

SelfieMic Music Set

Little Live Pets: Snuggles My Dream Puppy

Bright Beats Dance & Move BeatBowWow

Converse with Michelangelo and learn about his life as a ninja, or maybe even secrets about Donnie and Raph.

Ask a question and you’ll get an answer from 100 unique responses. Spin or shake him and he’ll respond accordingly.

He can even sing for you. For ages 4 and older. $39.99.

The little conductors in your house will love this 100-piece train set that includes trains, vehicles, a helicopter, figures, lampposts and signs, a mountain with tunnels, bridges, and more — everything they’ll need for hours of fun. Includes a handy storage bin.

For ages 3-5. $159.99.

Bring out your inner music star with the StarMaker app, adjustable selfie stick, and working microphone to use with your smartphone. Choose from millions of songs to belt out in your own style. You can also create your own music videos for friends and family. For ages 8 and up. $24.99.

This furry, interactive friend is just like a real puppy and exhibits lifelike reactions when you give it attention.

Snuggles lets you know when he wants to play or when he’s sleepy; after you feed him from the milk bottle, he’ll cuddle in your arms and fall asleep. For ages 4 and older. $54.99.

Your baby will have fun learning with the FisherPrice interactive BeatBowWow. Press buttons on its paws to activate learning songs, lights, music, and dance moves as its head moves from side-to-side, ears wiggle, and tail lights up and wags. For ages 12 months to 3 years. $24.99.

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or six decades The Humane Society of Sarasota County (HSSC) has provided shelter, care, compassion, and kindness to animals in our area. Some are abandoned, others have been rescued, and many just need new, loving homes. Services provided by HSSC include: ® Pet adoption guidance ® Spaying/neutering ® Microchipping and registration ® Vaccinations ® Education for pet owners ® K-9 obedience training ® Cat care classes on feline behavior and training ® The Pet Therapy Program ® Full-service, low-cost health care in the veterinary care clinic The New Animal Clinic at HSSC The HSSC Animal Clinic provides excellent veterinary care at an affordable price. Services include preventive care, wellness exams, dental care, state-of-the-art digital x-rays, and in-house diagnostics, as well as providing pet food and supplies. Clinic proceeds are used to benefit shelter pets.

HSSC is dependent solely on community donations, and helping is easy. You can make financial donations; donate unopened pet food to the Pet Pantry Program; purchase much-needed items on the HSSC Wish List; provide a foster home for an animal; or volunteer your time. To find out more, visit hssc.org.

SNN is proud to support The Humane Society of Sarasota County

Be sure to watch “Up for Adoption” which airs during SNN Weekend Edition, Sunday 10 p.m. to Monday 9 a.m

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www.suncoastcharitiesforchildren.org

uncoast Charities for Children supports children, teens, and adults with special needs and their families in a very special way. Thanks to a series of annual fundraising events, and strong community partnerships developed over the years, net revenues raised from these events impact over 8,000 clients and their families here in our local community. These fundraising events include the Holiday Boat Parade of Lights, New Year’s Eve Bayfront Fireworks, Sarasota Powerboat Grand Prix, July 4th Bayfront Fireworks, and Thunder by the Bay. Each year Suncoast Charities for Children provides a grant to the Suncoast Foundation, which has constructed local buildings 12

valued at more than $20 million in Sarasota, Venice, and North Port area. These buildings are currently occupied by The Haven, The Florida Center for Early Childhood, Children First, and Sarasota County Special Olympics for only $1 per year in rent.

Loveland Village in Venice also receives support from Suncoast Charities for Children.

Annual grants from Suncoast Charities for Children helps maintain these aging facilities so that program and service money can go directly to clients with special needs and their families. Special project funding requests are also reviewed on an annual basis.

For information on how you can help support special needs children in our community, visit suncoastcharitiesforchildren.org.

SNN is proud to support Suncoast Charities for Children

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ountless Suncoast men, women, veterans, seniors, and youths with disabilities and other barriers to employment have overcome their difficulties by turning to Goodwill Manasota whose mission, “changing lives through the power of work,” is met through job skills training, education, and employment opportunities. Services Goodwill Manasota provides include: ® Employment for the disabled, welfare recipients, and immigrants, who can’t find work; ® Counseling, coaching, mentoring, and job placement; ® Help for returning veterans and their families; ® An introduction to high tech careers, training, and internships to disabled students; ® Affordable, barrier-free living options and support to low income people with disabilities; ® GED training and the opportunity to earn a high school diploma.

Goodwill Manasota’s commitment in preparing people for a lifetime of productivity is made possible by your donations of gently used clothing and household items. These, in turn, are sold at Goodwill stores throughout the Suncoast area to provide jobs and to support Goodwill programs.

You can also help by shopping at Goodwill stores, donating your time, or making a financial donation. For more information, visit experiencegoodwill.org.

SNN-TV is proud to support Goodwill Manasota

Be sure to watch Goodwill Manasota’s “Tell Me Something Good” Sundays at 9:30 a.m. on SNN. The show reports acts of generosity and kindness throughout the Suncoast community 13

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Holiday Cuisine from

round the world families gather together during the Christmas season to prepare and share holiday dishes deeply rooted in memory and tradition. Partaking of these special foods brings a familiar joy, a recognition of the perpetuity of our shared customs and celebrations. For all our differences, the holiday table is universal; one of the many things we all share.

Canada

Like many other French-speaking people across the globe, families in the province of Quebec, Canada celebrate the holidays with a “réveillon” dinner on Christmas Eve. Réveillon may be translated to A tourtière, or pastry-covered meat “wakening” which is pie, is a mainstay of Canadian meant literally since Christmas celebrations. the meal traditionally follows a midnight mass and ushers in Christmas morning (although contemporary trends allow for an earlier mass followed by the feast).

Traditional fare may include maple syrup glazed ham, roast turkey, lobster, oysters, smoked salmon, pâté, fruit, nuts, cheeses, wine, and buche de Noël (a chocolate and spongecake yule log).

But the signature dish served by many French Canadians at Le Réveillon is the tourtière.

Originating in Quebec, the tourtière is a pastrycovered meat pie with as many variations as there are families who have passed their recipes down for generations. The A buche de Noël is a traditional basic ingredients include Canadian holiday dessert. a combination of cubed or minced meats (ground pork, ground beef, chicken, or wild game); chopped vegetables including onions, celery, carrots, and potatoes; and spices such as nutmeg, cloves, cinnamon, and allspice. It is often served with condiments like maple syrup, chutney, or cranberry preserves.

Spain

Like French Canadians, the Spanish often celebrate Christmas Eve (La Noche Buena or The Good Night) with families and friends gathering for a feast before or after midnight mass.

Generally, the courses include appetizers, soups, the main course, and desserts.

Tapas (appetizers) are small savory dishes that come in many different varieties. Favorites include albóndigas (meatballs CONTINUED ON NEXT PAGE

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Around the World with sauce), chorizo al vino (chorizo cooked slowly in wine), empanadillas (meat- or vegetable-filled turnovers), setas al ajillo (mushrooms sautĂŠed with olive oil and garlic), gambas a la plancha (grilled shrimp). Soups and stews might include the popular sopa de pescado y marisco (fish and shellfish soup) or caldereta de langosta (lobster stew). The main course could be cordero asado (roast lamb), cochinillo asado (roast suckling pig), escabeche de pollo de Navidad (Christmas chicken), or mero a la mallorquina (grouper cooked with wine, seasonings, and topped with vegetables such Tapas are a holiday favorite in Spain. as artichokes, red peppers, onions, potatoes, leeks, carrots, Swiss chard or spinach, and tomatoes).

Traditional Spanish desserts include arroz con leche (rice pudding with caramelized crust), turron (almond candy), and mantecados (crumble cakes with a delicate anise flavor).

Brazil

In Brazil, Ceia de Natal (Christmas dinner), incorporates a diverse mix of foods and flavors. Decades of influence from Portugal, Germany, Italy, Africa, and Japan, have created a unique, tropical South American holiday table.

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While differing from region to region, Ceia de Natal is a large meal served before or after a late night mass, called the Missa do Galo or Mass of the Rooster (so named for the rooster that heralds Christmas morning after the mass).

Roast turkey is often the main course served on a platter surrounded by any combination of local fruits including star fruit, dragon fruit, kiwis, pears, mangos, apples, oranges, mexericas (similar to mandarin oranges), grapes, cherries, pineapple, and figs.

Other popular entrees include ham, roasted leg of pork, fish, or chicken with rice.

Many families will also serve couve a mineira (kale highly seasoned with garlic), Brazilian rice, bacalhau (salted cod) rolled into balls or cakes, nuts, and salads (including cold potato salad).

One of the most popular Christmas desserts in Brazil is Brazilian families often rabanada which is similar to French serve bacalhau, salted toast. It’s made with day-old bread cod, as a traditional part dipped in a mixture of milk and eggs, of Christmas dinner. fried, and topped off with cinnamon and sugar. Other favorites include passion fruit mousse, panettone (a sweet bread from Italy), German strudel, and chocolate pavÊ (a trifle).

Live Holiday Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall 777 N. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota 941-953-3368 www.vanwezel.org •••••••••• This time of year the Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall offers a variety of special shows with a seasonal theme.

Treat yourself and the whole family to the magic and excitement of live theater. Here are some of the holiday performances you’ll find.

Dave Koz Christmas Tour Friday, Nov. 25 at 8 p.m.

Enjoy the magic of Christmas presented by nine-time Grammy nominee, saxaphonist Dave Koz. In this 19th anniversary holiday tour Koz welcomes guests R&B/contemporary jazz/gospel artist Jonathan Butler; singer/songwriter Kenny Lattimore; and vocalist Valerie Simpson. These four acclaimed artists put a fresh spin on holiday classics and other seasonal selections.

Melissa Etheridge’s Holiday Trio Sunday, Nov. 27 at 7 p.m.

Melissa Etheridge is a true rock ‘n’ roll icon. The Grammy Award winner will perform fan favorites and holiday classics including “Merry Christmas Baby,” “Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas,” and more.

Jim Brickman — Comfort and Joy Tuesday, Nov. 29 at 7:30 p.m.

Treat yourself to the songs, sounds, and stories of the season

as pianist Jim Brickman celebrates 20 years of his Christmas concerts. Brickman performs new music, holiday classics, and modern favorites with guests Kris Allen (American Idol), Anne Cochran, and Tracy Silverman.

Oak Ridge Boys’ Christmas Saturday, Dec. 10 at 8 p.m.

The Country Music Hall of Fame inductees return with their Christmas Celebration Tour 2016. You’ll hear classic hits and holiday favorites as only the Oak Ridge Boys can deliver them.

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Entertainment Beach Boys Christmas Monday, Dec. 12 at 7:30 p.m.

This legendary band brings Christmas favorites, greatest hits, and lots of good vibrations to the Van Wezel stage.

Garrison Keillor

Tuesday, Dec. 13 at 8 p.m.

Storyteller, writer, and humorist Garrison Keillor offers his blend of comedy, charisma, and wisdom to Sarasota audiences. It’s easy to see why his live radio variety show, A Prairie Home Companion, was so loved.

A Christmas Carol

Wednesday, Dec. 21 at 8 p.m.

Charles Dickens’ 1843 classic never grows old with its inspirational message of redemption. Timeless Christmas carols are interwoven within the story as Ebenezer Scrooge, Bob Cratchit, Tiny Tim, and the ghosts of Christmas past, present, and yet to come are brought to life.

Rodgers + Hammerstein’s Cinderella Tuesday and Wednesday, Dec. 27-28 at 7 p.m.

This romantic and hilarious Tony Award-winning Broadway musical gives a contemporary spin to the classic story.

The lush production features some of Rodgers and Hammerstein’s most popular songs.

Moscow Ballet’s Great Russian Nutcracker

Thursday, Dec. 29 at 3 p.m. and 7 p.m.

It wouldn’t be Christmas without this beloved holiday classic and Moscow Ballet’s production is receiving rave reviews. Superb props, costumes, and sets.

Don’t miss this special presentation.

Salute to Vienna New Year’s Concert Tuesday, Jan. 3 at 7 p.m.

Welcome the New Year with the 20th anniversary production of this elegant concert. A full orchestra; acclaimed singers; and ballet and ballroom dancers performing to Strauss waltzes and sweeping melodies from operettas truly make this show a feast for the senses.

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Make a Difference this Holiday Season

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ur thoughts turn naturally toward others this time of year. There are many ways to brighten someone’s holiday season— whether it’s helping with a task, giving them something they need, or just bringing a little happiness to their day. Here are a few ideas.

Provide a meal for a homeless person.

Instead of handing money to a homeless person, hand them a bag of wholesome food.

Help someone who is elderly, disabled, or ill.

Anyone who has difficulty getting around would probably welcome help. You could pick up groceries or other items or mail letters and packages for them; take their trash cans to the curb and back in on trash day; you could even help them put up and take down Christmas decorations.

Do something nice for caregivers and first responders.

Your local police, firefighters, You can make a difference this and hospital staffs do so much holiday season by helping others. for our communities. Show your appreciation by bringing them cookies or other treats during the holiday season.

Thank your mail carrier.

Through rain, heat, and even a few territorial canines, your carrier brings you your mail. Leave a treat and a card to show your appreciation.

Make your co-workers’ day.

Bring donuts or bagels or even breakfast burritos to your co-workers in the morning and everyone will start their day with a smile.

Volunteer and donate.

There are many worthy charitable organizations that need extra help and donations during the holiday season. You can give monetary donations or give of your time.

Have your kids help needy children.

Encourage your children to use their own money to buy a new toy for a child that might otherwise go without. There are many organizations such as Toys for Tots that brighten the holidays for local children.

Babysit for busy parents.

Friends or relatives with small children would appreciate a couple of hours without the kids so they can get their holiday errands done.

Be Kind.

Kindness, compassion, a friendly smile — it all helps to make your little corner of the world a better place.

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Historic Spanish Point Holly Days & Mangrove Lights

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here is a special beauty to Historic Spanish Point when it is decorated for the holidays. Miniature white lights illuminate the mangroves and gardens, creating an ambiance of enchantment. Historic Spanish Point will be open until 8 p.m. every Thursday and Friday night from November 25 to December 30.

These extended evening hours allow visitors to walk the lighted pathways, enjoy holiday Party-goers celebrate at Historic Spanish music, and feel the Point’s New Year’s Eve celebration. spirit of the season.

Regular admission applies.

Holly Holiday Party

Friday, Dec. 2 from 5-8 p.m.

Guests will find seasonal music, light refreshments, and plenty of good cheer at the annual Holly Holiday Party. Free for members (just present your membership card); guests of members are $5 each. General admission: $12 for adults, $10 for seniors (65+), $5 for children ages 5-12, children under 5 are free.

Starlight and Fire Family Party on New Year’s Eve Saturday, December 31 from 6-10 p.m.

The whole family can celebrate the arrival of the New Year at White Cottage. Enjoy activities, live music and dancing, roasting marshmallows over the bonfire, falling “snow,” and more. Member admission: $8 for adults, $4 for children under 12. General public: $10 for adults, $5 for children under 12. Find more information and performance schedules at historicspanishpoint.org.

Holiday Parades on SNN Nothing says “Christmas is coming” like a holiday parade!

Get into the spirit of the season as SNN broadcasts live from the Venice Holiday Parade and Sarasota Christmas Boat Parade of Lights — you won’t miss an exciting moment and you’ll have a front row seat without braving the crowds! SNN will also air multiple repeat broadcasts of the parades on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day.

Venice Holiday Parade Saturday, November 26 from 7-9 p.m. veniceholidayparade.com Sarasota Christmas Boat Parade of Lights Saturday, December 10 from 7-8 p.m.

Proceeds go to Suncoast Charities for Children.

sarasotachristmasboatparade.com

SNN is a proud sponsor Christmas Boat Parade of Lights

of the Sarasota

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Decorating for the Holidays

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here are many ways to make your holiday decorating unique. Here are some do-ityourself ideas to give all of your displays a personal, and beautiful, homemade touch.

Mantel Decorations and Centerpieces

Natural items can make beautiful, simple decorations. Arrangements of pine cones, dried grasses, nuts, and berries in a vase or basket on your table, or laid across a mantel can be very effective.

Fill glass vases, jars, bowls, and hurricane lamps with shiny ball ornaments (all in one color theme or mixed) or even large Christmas tree light bulbs for a colorful display.

Garlands

Traditional garlands made with popcorn or cranberries are easy to make, but nontraditional ingredients make fun alternatives.

Try gummy bears, Lifesavers, pretzels, or dried fruit garlands for a different look.

For a non-food garland, scraps of paper, fabric, or felt can be cut into the shape of mittens, wreaths, Santas, stockings, holly leaves, snowmen, and so on, and then strung together

for a colorful addition to the room.

Christmas Card Hanging Display

Tie or tape a length of yarn or twine across a doorway, mantel, or in front of a window, letting it drape so the middle is lower than the sides. Using kitchen clips, paper clips, or clothespins, clip each Christmas card to the string to create holiday cheer.

Homemade Wrapping Paper, Bows, and Ribbons

Creating your own wrappings is a fun way to make your gifts unique. Wrap smaller gifts with colorful magazine pages (or tape pages together for larger boxes); use comic pages from the newspaper to wrap children’s gifts; plain brown paper sacks with raffia or twine for ribbon make an old-fashioned looking wrap; you could even use your children’s or grandchildren’s art as wrapping paper.

Ribbon and bows can be made from colored yarn, raffia, twine, or embroidery thread. If you have a few silk flowers on hand, use them to top a gift instead of a store-bought bow. You can also make bows from strips of fabric, felt, colorful paper, or even feathers from an old boa. Whatever materials you choose, your homemade wrap is sure to bring smiles.

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Hanukkah — Modern Celebrations In the year 165 B.C., a few brave and faithful Israelites — known as the Maccabees — stood up to the powerful Syrian army that occupied their land, defiled their holy Temple, and prohibited Jews from exercising their religious beliefs.

When the aggressors were driven out, the Jews reclaimed and rededicated their Temple. But when re-lighting the Temple menorah (which tradition dictated must be kept lit continually), they had only enough oil for the menorah to burn a single day. But with faith, they lit the menorah and, miraculously, it burned for eight days. This is the miracle which Hanukkah commemorates.

Hanukkah Traditions

Today the holiday’s main tradition is to light a Hanukkiah (a special menorah with nine candles: eight to commemorate the days the Temple menorah burned, one to light the others), with celebrants reciting blessings as each candle is lit. Celebrations also include preparing foods fried in oil — to represent the oil in the Temple menorah — such as latkes (potato pancakes) and sufganiyot (small powdered sugar donuts). Additionally children play with dreidels and families sing Hanukkah songs.

Hanukkah Gift-Giving Trends

The newer tradition of giving gifts during Hanukkah is practiced in many ways. A family might give a small, token gift each night, or small gifts each night with a larger gift on the last night. Some people exchange all the gifts on one night; others might give one special gift for the whole family instead of individual gifts. And some families designate nights for gift-giving between specific family members.

No matter how each family celebrates, Hanukkah is a joyful holiday, and the core message of dedication, gratitude, and faith remains constant.

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Carols and Classics at the Crosley

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he Powel Crosley Estate will present “Carols and Classics at the Crosley” on selected dates from Dec. 12-23. This annual event promises to be a festive, Interactive performances highlight family evening of interactive this annual event. theater, traditional carols, and tales. The unique performances take you from room to room, showcasing the historic mansion on Sarasota Bay. The 2016 event includes: “A Christmas Carol” by Charles Dickens in The Great Room “The Boy Who laughed at Santa Claus” by Ogden Nash and “A Visit from Saint Nicholas” by Clement C. Moore in Gwendolyn’s Room “Hershel and The Hanukkah Goblins” by Eric A. Kimmel and other holiday treats in The Library Visit bradentongulfislands.com/crosley-theater/ for tickets and showtimes.

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his year’s event has moved to a new location and promises to be bigger and better than ever. Bring your furry friends and join the fun on Saturday, December 10 from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. at Five Points Park in downtown Sarasota. If you’re looking for a pet to become part of your family, you’ll find dogs, cats, puppies, and kittens available for adoption through local rescue groups.

Your whole family can enjoy the festivities which include face painting, holiday pet photographs, a caricaturist, agility demonstrations, animal communicators, DJ music, food vendors, raffle prizes, and more. Plus you can find holiday gifts — for people and pets — from 65 vendors offering a huge variety of items.

Holiday Costume Parade and Contest

The Jubilee’s Holiday Costume Parade and Contest — an event favorite — is hosted by Susan Marie of the “Doggy Diva Show.” Bring your dog or cat dressed for the holidays to participate in this fun event.

Admission is free. Jingle Paws Jubilee raises funds to benefit community animal groups.

Go to jinglepawsjubileedowntownsarasota.com or Facebook for more information.

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