Suncoast Holiday Guide

SUNCOAST

Holiday Guide Gift Guides

For Him and for Her

Holiday Parades Broadcast Live!

Holiday Events Sailor Circus Lights in Bloom Snow Fest

Shopping Local For the Holidays Great Tech Gifts Best eCards

And More!

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Fall/Winter 2015

Welcome

from the General Manager

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elcome to Suncoast News Network’s first edition of “SNN Suncoast Holiday Guide,” a magazine for and about our community during this special time of the year.

Doug Barker Our vibrant lifestyle and diverse culture make the holidays especially enjoyable. From the many local events taking place to the traditional gathering of friends and loved ones, we celebrate the season, each in our own way.

This time of year also brings a heightened awareness of those in need. At SNN we strive to help local charitable organizations in their continual and vital outreach by donating air time and providing news coverage of the work they do to help our community.

Whether you watch SNN on Comcast (Channels 6 and 400HD), Verizon (Channels 9 and 509HD), or over the air on Channel 29, our goal is to keep you informed 24/7 of local news, weather and sports for Sarasota, Manatee and Charlotte counties.

And we’d love to hear from you. Join us on Facebook, Twitter, Google Plus, and online at SNNTV.com. Our anchors and reporters are always looking for ways to connect with your insights about this very special place in which we live.

I hope you’ll enjoy our first “SNN Suncoast Holiday Guide” and on behalf of all of us at SNN I’d like to wish each of you a very happy holiday season.

SUNCOAST

Holiday Guide

22

Gifts 4

Gifts for Men

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Tech Gifts

5

Gifts for Women

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18 From Sarasota

for the Holidays

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Holidays 6 Teaching Kids

to Help Others 10 Suncoast News Network —

Favorite Holiday Traditions 12 Holiday Giving —

The Spirit of the Season 14 Holiday eCards 15 Stocking Stuffers

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16 Pets Love

the Holidays Too 20 Managing Stress

during the Holidays 22 Christmas Celebrations

around the World

Holiday Events

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7 Sailor Circus

Holiday Spectacular 8

Holiday Parades on SNN

11 Snow Fest Sarasota 17 Lights in Bloom

at Selby Gardens

16 Doug Barker President and General Manager Suncoast News Network 2

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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.

Gifts for Men

TECH

GIFTS

The Briefcase Barbecue

This sleek stainless steel briefcase opens up to reveal a portable charcoal grill inside. Now it’s easy to transport a grill in the trunk of your car and have it handy for tailgating, trips to the beach, picnicking, camping, or anywhere a grill would add to the fun. When you’re ready to grill, just open the Briefcase Barbecue to its standing position (the long, rubberized legs ensure stability) and start cooking on the 10” x 6 1/4” metal grate. Cleanup is easy with a removable ash basket that catches debris. Weighs just 4 pounds. Dimensions: 12 1/2” high x 8 3/4” wide x 2 3/4” deep. Available for $79.95 at www.hammacherschlemmer.com.

Seyvr Power Saving Wallet

Ever run out of power on your phone or tablet without a phone charger on hand? With the Seyvr Power Saving Wallet, that won’t happen again because the wallet itself is a charger. This top-grain leather wallet contains an integrated power bank with a lithium-polymer battery and built-in cable so you have everything you need to charge Android devices up to 50 percent and Apple devices up to 70 per cent. The attractive, slim silhouette includes room for six credit cards and a money clip for your cash and receipts. The wallet recharging cable is included. Dimensions: 4” x 3” x 1/2”. Available in black or brown. Android Power Saver Wallet $74.95; Apple Power Saver Wallet $84.95; both available at www.grommet.com.

Mighty Purse by Handbag Butler

Martian Notifier Smartwatch

This very handy (and good looking) watch gives you hands-free notifications without having to reach for your connected smartphone — all the information you need is on your wrist. This smartwatch notifies you of activity from your email, SMS, caller ID, calendar, Twitter, Facebook, reminders, world clock, weather, and instant notifications from all third party apps that send notifications to your smartphone. Features include a 1.5” graphic OLED display for easy-to-read clarity; customizable vibration patterns to identify what kind of incoming alert you’re getting; rechargeable lithium-ion polymer battery (includes USB cable); Japanese quartz movement; stainless steel/ silicone; splash resistant; and one-year limited warranty.

Available in black, red, and white. It’s compatible with most Android smartphones and tablets with OS 2.3.3 or later and Apple iPhone 4S, 5, 5C, and 5S, plus later versions of iPad and iPod Touch. The watch is available for $129 at www.martianwatches.com.

Ring™ Wi-Fi Enabled Video Doorbell

This convenient device allows you to monitor and answer your front door on your smartphone or tablet no matter where you are — at home or half way around the world. RingTM is a Wi-Fi enabled video doorbell that lets you see and talk to people at your door (even when your phone is roaming on cellular networks), monitor package deliveries, and enhance your home security. It has clear audio and built-in night vision for video quality 24 hours per day. When someone presses Ring™, it will chime on all your connected devices simultaneously and when you “answer” you’ll get a live video stream directly to your device. Other features include: quick and easy installation; wireless operation for more than a year before needing to recharge (with micro USB); pairs multiple devices (there’s no limit); weather resistant to protect from humidity, rain, sleet, snow, ice, and extreme heat. Dimensions: 1.3” x 2.39” x 5.68”. Available for $199.99 at www.brookstone.com.

The RC Palmcopter

This must be what they mean about good things coming in small packages. The RC Palmcopter’s rotors are just 3 1/2” in diameter, but it packs a big punch in the entertainment arena.

This indoor ‘copter will fly through narrow spaces, around plants, over furniture, up stairwells, and return to land in the palm of your hand.

The built-in gyroscopic stabilizers help provide smooth flights and the horizontal tail rotor operates in conjunction with two contra-rotating main rotors to maintain balance in flight. Fly forward, backward, up and down, and side to side.

The infrared digital-proportional three-channel remote allows for interference-free, line-of-sight control; and the aluminum body can take bumpy landings. You get up to five minutes of flying on a full charge with the included USB cable (connects to a computer or the remote control). The remote control requires four AA batteries (included). Dimensions: 4” long x 2” wide x 2 1/2” high. Weighs one pound. For ages 14 to adult. Comes with the Hammacher Schlemmer lifetime guarantee at no charge.

Available for $39.95 at www.hammacherschlemmer.com.

Gifts for Women

BluApple

According to the USDA the average family throws away up to $600 worth of spoiled fruit and vegetables per year; but BluApple can help you extend the storage life of your produce up to three times longer. How does it work? It’s actually very simple. Fruits and vegetables naturally emit ethylene gas, and when this gas builds up, it accelerates the ripening process. That’s where BluApple comes in — it absorbs ethylene gas. Based on the same technology used by ocean liners and warehouses to prevent food spoilage, this product is now available to the consumer using the same non-toxic active ingredient (sodium permanganate). All you have to do to extend the freshness of your produce is to place a BluApple in the refrigerator, fruit bowl, produce bin, or storage container. Each BluApple will last about three months. This starter package comes with two BluApples and enough refill packets to last for 12 additional months (more refill packets are available).

And, even better, it’s organic, non-toxic, and recyclable.

Available for $18 at www.thegrommet.com.

This is not just a good looking handbag, it’s a clever fusion of style and technology that allows you to re-charge your smartphone wherever you are.

The hidden lightweight battery inside will give you two charges for every charge of its own and even has an LED battery level indicator so you’ll know how much power is left. As handy as Mighty Purse is, it doesn’t skimp on functionality. It has compartments and pockets for credit cards, cash, and essentials. Available for Apple and Android, Mighty Purse comes in two styles: the vegan leather cross body Flap X-Body Bag is available in black, tan, or teal for $84.95. The genuine leather Classic Wristlet is available in matte black, almond brown, cream, navy, poppy pink, icy purple, ruby red, gold shimmer, and metallic silver for $99.95. Both are 5.9” x 9” x 0.39”. Available at www.thegrommet.com.

Belkin Crock-Pot® Smart Slow Cooker with WeMo®

This elegant looking slow cooker truly is smart! You’ll have remote access to all of its functions no matter where you are. Just download the free WeMo® app to your smartphone or tablet and sync it to the Crock-Pot®.

Stuck in traffic? No problem; you can monitor cooking status, adjust the temperature or cooking time, turn it on or off, and receive notifications when cooking is complete — all on your device.

Features include large, 6-quart capacity; manual controls for times when you don’t want to use your device; cool-touch handles; the removable stoneware and glass lid are both dishwasher-safe for easy cleanup; three temperature settings; when cooking time is complete the Crock-Pot® automatically switches to “warm” to keep your food at an ideal serving temperature until you’re ready to eat; illuminated LED display; works with Android and Apple devices. Available for $129.99 at www.belkin.com and other retailers.

Ultrasonic Jewelry and DVD Cleaner iRoller Touchscreen Cleaner

This is a great way to keep all of your touchscreens clean. A few gentle swipes with the iRoller’s sticky surface will clear fingerprints, smudges, dust, and bacteria. The iRoller’s sticky material was invented by a plastic surgeon to organize surgical instruments but he discovered it had potential for other uses as well (like cleaning touchscreens). The iRoller fits in a backpack, purse, or glove box, and the retractable cover protects the surface when it’s stored. You can use the iRoller over and over — just clean it by rinsing with tap water and letting it air dry (or blotting gently with a lint-free cloth).

Dimensions: 3.75” x 1” x 1”. Available for $20 at www.thegrommet.com.

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Clean your jewelry, watches, eyeglasses (with non-coated lenses), CDs and DVDs, without harsh chemicals.

This jewelry cleaner does all the work using nothing but tap water. Advanced sound wave technology is gentle but thorough and leaves your items sparkling clean — even delicate pieces. Features include five timed cycles to accommodate different quantities and the delicacy of your pieces; three cleaning intensity cycles; DVD spindle, watch hanger and basket included; automatic shut-off; and clear viewing window.

Available at www.brookstone.com for $49.99.

Teaching Kids to Help Others

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he holiday season is a time when our thoughts turn to those in need, and it’s never too early to introduce to children the value of thinking about others, expressing kindness, and giving of themselves to help those whose holiday would be brightened by a helping hand.

Here are just a few ideas your kids might like to do on their way to becoming world-class philanthropists!

Buy a new toy with their own money for an underprivileged child

There are many organizations that provide new toys to children who might otherwise go without gifts during the holidays (Toys for Tots and Salvation Army Christmas Angel Tree are two examples). Your child can buy a toy with his or her own money and donate it so another child has a package to open on Christmas morning.

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or the many circus aficionados in our area, the holidays wouldn’t be complete without seeing the annual Sailor Circus holiday show. This year’s show, “The Sailor Circus Presents a Holiday Celebration” will run from December 26 through 29.

The Sailor Circus cast features Sailor Circus Academy students ages 8 to 18, each professionally trained by Circus Arts Conservatory staff members and professional circus performers.

The whole family will be delighted with time-honored circus acts such as juggling, tumbling, clowning, trapeze, high-wire, aerial acts, balancing acts, and more.

An intensive after-school youth program, Sailor Circus has been working with young people for 65 years to help them develop life management skills, discipline, and confidence through rigorous training in the circus arts.

Give outgrown clothes and toys to needy children

Offering to do household chores like taking out the trash and recycling is a great way kids can help their parents this holiday season.

Organizations such as Salvation Army, ARC, Goodwill and others use your donations to stock their thrift stores.

This not only helps families with limited resources, but also funds programs to help people in our community. By finding gently used clothing and toys to donate, your kids can help others.

Help Mom and Dad around the house

Parents have a lot to do during the holidays and could use all the help they can get. Kids can offer to do household chores throughout December, daily or weekly. Parents would appreciate help with the dinner dishes; vacuuming; taking out the trash and recycling; feeding the pets; or, for older kids, making dinner for the whole family.

SHOW TIMES Sat., Dec. 26, 2 p.m. and 7 p.m.

Sun., Dec 27, 2 p.m.

Mon., Dec. 28, 2 p.m. and 7 p.m.

Tues., Dec. 29, 2 p.m. and 7 p.m.

Teach an older relative how to get online

If you have a child with an inclination to teach, many seniors (like Grandma and Grandpa) would love to learn how to access the nearly unlimited social, entertainment, and educational aspects of the Internet. They might even find a long-lost childhood friend and correspond via email.

Tickets are available at the box office or online at www.circusarts.org.

Adults: $20; Children: $15.

The Sailor Circus Arena is located at 2075 Bahia Vista Drive in Sarasota.

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Holiday Parades on SNN

Venice Holiday Parade Saturday, November 28, 7-9 p.m.

Every year thousands of spectators line the streets of historic downtown Venice to watch the Venice Holiday Parade — one of the biggest parades in our area. More than 3,000 participants from 120 local companies, churches, schools, social organizations, and music groups put on an exciting show.

Pre-parade entertainment, music, and lighting of the

Photo by Rachael Moore

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ick off the holiday season with a front row seat for the Suncoast’s most popular holiday parades as SNN broadcasts live from the parade routes.

Join your hosts, SNN Anchors Kathy Leon and Grant Boxleitner as they Kathy Leon and Grant Boxleitner bring you all the exciting SNN Suncoast News moments in the Venice Holiday Parade, Sarasota Holiday Parade, and Sarasota Christmas Boat Parade of Lights. And on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day, SNN will air multiple repeat broadcasts of all three parades for your holiday enjoyment.

Watch the parade s live o n SNN w ith repla ys on Chr istmas Eve an Christm d downtown holiday decorations will as Day ! begin at 5 p.m. in downtown Venice (at the corner of Harbor Drive and West Venice Avenue and the corner of Nokomis Street and West Venice Avenue). Don’t worry about hunger pains because parade vendors will be selling pizza, hot dogs, hamburgers, goodies, and beverages all along the parade route. The parade starts at 7 p.m. and will feature a dazzling array of holiday floats, marching bands, and more, plus a special float for the big man in red — Santa Claus!

The parade begins at Park Blvd. and West Venice Avenue (south side) continuing to the north side of Venice Avenue at Harbor Drive where it will turn south onto Nokomis Street and continue to Turin, ending at the Venice Community Center.

You’ll find more parade information at www.veniceholidayparade.com.

parade features festively decorated floats, marching bands, and much more, including the appearance of Santa himself. He’ll be joined by Mrs. Claus to officially welcome Sarasota’s holiday season.

The parade will begin on Main Street from Washington Blvd., continuing on to Gulfstream Ave.

Sarasota Christmas Boat Parade of Lights Saturday, December 12, 6-7 p.m.

Another holiday favorite, the Sarasota Christmas Boat Parade of Lights will once more enliven the waters of Sarasota Bay.

Sarasota Holiday Parade Saturday, December 5, 7-8:30 p.m.

Thousands of parade-goers will converge along Main Street in downtown Sarasota to take in the sights and sounds of the holidays with this popular holiday event. The

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Thousands of spectators attend the parade every year to enjoy the holiday atmosphere and beauty of the lights reflected in the water. Corporate and privately owned vessels, decorated from bow to stern for the holidays, are adorned with bright, colorful lights; and many play holiday music — or provide live music — for viewers to enjoy from the shore.

The parade will begin at 6 p.m. at City Island. The best areas for viewing are Marina Jack Restaurant, Bayfront Park, City Island, and Centennial Park. Visit the site www.sarasotachristmasboatparade.com for a map of the newly expanded parade route and viewing areas.

Proceeds go to Suncoast Charities for Children, Inc. SNN is a proud sponsor of the Sarasota Christmas Boat Parade of Lights.

Photos courtesy of Venice Holiday Parade

SNN Suncoast Network News Team

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Favorite Holiday Traditions

e asked the SNN Suncoast News Network Team: “As a child what was your family’s favorite holiday tradition?” Here are their answers.

John C. Hill

SNN Suncoast News Network Anchor To answer the question you have to travel with me back to the early 50’s in the Windy City of Chicago. My mother was a model and worked for Carson Pirie Scott and Marshall Fields among other Chicago Department Stores. She wanted her family to see and share the wonderful Christmas store displays on State Street.

Every Christmas, in the bitter cold, with snow, sleet and ice on the street she would gather up my father, Julianne my older sister, and myself and take us to see the Wonders of Christmas on State Street. Nothing can describe the excitement and wonders of the store displays with animated Christmas figures, angels, dolls, puppy dogs and elves beautifully displayed behind the large glass windows.

It was a joy I will always remember and can only wish to share with my children someday as my mother so knowingly did. That is my best family Christmas tradition ever.

Justin Mosely

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Snow Fest Sarasota

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uncoast residents generally expect mild and sunny temperatures during the holidays, but surprisingly, the December forecast is calling for snow — about 100 tons of it — and It will all be falling daily at this year’s Snow Fest Sarasota.

The annual family-friendly snow festival takes place Friday, December 18 through Sunday, December 20 from 12 noon to 10 p.m. daily at Payne Park in downtown Sarasota.

Bring your warm gear and enjoy the feel of real snow as you meet Santa, explore the snow-packed terrain, and enjoy this year’s attractions.

SNOW MOUNTAIN: Build a snowman and play in real snow (warm clothes and mittens recommended — it’s cold up there!)

GIANT SNOW SLIDE: Don’t miss the excitement of sledding down Snow Mountain.

SNN Suncoast News Network Chief Meteorologist

CARNIVAL GAMES AND RIDES: Lots of fun for all.

A fond and very vivid holiday tradition for me is trimming our family’s live Christmas tree. Year after year for as long as memory serves we would go to our local Vero Beach Christmas tree lot to pick THE tree. After the correct tree was selected and put into place, our family would decorate while listening to Nat King Cole tunes on the stereo.

While this was a joyous tradition, it was also one that for many of my early years would be followed by a bit of fright come Christmas Eve night. You see, as a young child I was afraid of Old Saint Nick. I found something a little too jolly about the white beard and rosy red cheeks. For years I found it hard to sleep on Christmas Eve night, not because of the anticipation of goodies and toys, but because of the fear of seeing Santa face to face.

Fortunately with age I grew out of the fear of Santa and was able to embrace the full joy and richness the Christmas season has to offer.

SANTA’S “SOUTH” POLE: Santa will be on hand for pictures along with his elves, Rudolph, and Frosty.

MRS. CLAUS’ KITCHEN: There will be plenty of food and beverages from local vendors.

SANTA’S CIRCUS: Exciting performances by the Candy Cane Hula Hoopers, Jelly Bean Jugglers, North Pole trapeze artists, and more.

PONY RIDES: Don’t be surprised if Santa’s ponies look a little like reindeer.

SANTA’S EXTRAVAGANZA: Don’t miss live holiday shows every day.

MUSIC WONDERLAND: There will be entertainment throughout the festival including caroling by a local celebrity.

DJ GRINCH LIVE: Don’t miss the Grinch! He’ll be performing daily.

CLAUS’ PETTING ZOO: Visit and feed Santa’s animal friends.

Trevor DeGroot

SNN Suncoast News Network Sports Director/Anchor

SANTA’S BOUNCE HOUSE: Take a break from the cold snow and bounce to your heart’s content.

My favorite family holiday tradition was hanging ornaments on the Christmas tree. It always got me ready for the holiday season — enjoying quality time with family while decorating the tree in the living room.

Snow Fest Sarasota will take place at 2050 Adams Lane (entrance off Ringling Blvd. and School Ave.) in Sarasota.

Admission and parking are free. For more information and pricing go to www.snowfestsarasota.com.

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Holiday Giving —

ost of us see the holiday season as a joyous time filled with traditions, friends and family, and gifts exchanged with love. Yet, for many this can be a difficult time of year when hunger, homelessness, and loneliness are felt more deeply. Our Suncoast community has always extended a helping hand to those in need and whether you’d like to make a donation or volunteer your time, here are some organizations that make it easy to give of yourself to help others have a happier holiday.

Goodwill Manasota In 1902 Rev. Edgar J. Helms, a Methodist minister, founded Goodwill Industries based on the philosophy of “a hand up, not a hand out.” Ever since, those facing difficulties finding employment due to special needs have found help.

Here on the Suncoast, Goodwill Manasota’s mission is “Changing lives through the power of work.” Veterans, the handicapped, seniors, youth, and others are learning to reach their full potential through education, training, mentoring, special programs and services which, in turn, positively impact our community.

Goodwill’s success begins with your donations of clothing and household items which are sold at Goodwill stores across the Suncoast area. Bargain hunters find thousands of items — including unique holiday gifts and decorations — at Goodwill’s retail centers, bookstores, boutiques, clearance centers, and Bargain Barn locations. And every dollar

The Spirit of the Season

goes back into the community to provide jobs and teach selfsufficiency to the underprivileged.

If you’d like to help, you can donate gently used clothing and household items; shop at Goodwill stores; donate your vehicle; donate your time; or make a financial donation. You’ll be helping to build a stronger community while giving hope to our neighbors who are striving for a better life. For more information, go to www.experiencegoodwill.org.

pet’s behavior issues in order to eradicate the problem or learn to manage it; K-9 obedience training classes with top coaches for puppies and adult dogs; workshops and classes to help with cat care, behavior, and training; and the Pet Therapy Program that reaches out to connect certified pet therapy teams with local nursing homes, assisted living facilities, social service agencies, schools and libraries.

Helping HSSC is easy. You can donate unopened pet food to the Pet Pantry Program which gives temporary assistance to Sarasota residents who are unable to feed their pets; buy much needed items on the HSSC Wish List (on the website); volunteer to foster an animal; volunteer your time; or contribute financially through a variety of options. To find out more about what you can do, visit www.hssc.org.

Be sure to watch Goodwill’s television program, “Good News,” Sundays at 9:30 a.m. on SNN, a proud sponsor of the organization. Hosts Veronica Brandon Miller and Kelly Davis Strausbaugh, both of Goodwill Manasota, report on the many acts of generosity and philanthropy taking place in the Suncoast community.

The Humane Society of Sarasota County Since 1952, The Humane Society of Sarasota County (HSSC) has provided kindness, care, shelter, and permanent homes for abandoned pets.

Dependent solely on public donations, HSSC services include pet adoptions with guidance from experienced counselors to help match up the right people and pets (spaying/neutering, microchipping/registration, and vaccinations are included in the adoption fee); education to help owners understand their

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The Salvation Army of Sarasota For nearly 150 years, the Salvation Army has provided support to those in desperate need — feeding the hungry; clothing and sheltering the homeless (many of whom are children); helping seniors, the disabled, the sick, and those whose lives have been decimated by extreme personal difficulties. With its many social service programs, the Salvation Army helps more than 30 million Americans every year, including many in the Suncoast area.

Salvation Army of Sarasota estimates that 46 percent of Florida’s homeless are families — men, women, and children — who have experienced job loss, family crises, accidents, major illness, substance abuse, or natural disaster. During the holiday

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season, Salvation Army of Sarasota’s Red Kettle Christmas Campaign is a major source of funding to help people in our community. The ringing bells and donations in the bright red kettles provide holiday cheer to the homeless, needy families, and the elderly who would otherwise go without Christmas dinner, gifts and toys, clothing, and other assistance.

If you’d like to give financially, be a Red Kettle bell ringer, host an online Red Kettle, or participate in other holiday programs, go to www.salvationarmyflorida.org/sarasota/.

Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Suncoast Believing that “inherent in every child is the ability to succeed and thrive in life,” Big Brothers Big Sisters has been helping at-risk youth overcome adversity — poverty, single parent homes, parental incarceration — since 1904 by carefully matching each child with a caring adult who serves as a role model, mentor, and friend.

Research shows that children are greatly benefited by having a Big Brother or Big Sister. Their school work and family relationships improve and they’re less likely to skip school or become involved in substance and alcohol abuse. These benefits are the result of the organization’s one-to-one mentoring that helps each child achieve educational success, higher aspirations, greater confidence, better relationships, and avoidance of negative behavior.

If you’d like to reach out to a child in our Suncoast community and help change their life for the better, or if you’d like to help financially, go to Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Suncoast at www.bbbssun.org.

Holiday eCards

Stocking Stuffers

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This Christmas Eve, when you hang your stockings by the chimney with care, make sure they’re filled with treats and gifts that are sure to please!

Here are some fun stocking stuffers ideas.

t seems that there’s always just a little too much to get gone during the holidays; and each year it seems harder to find time to send traditional greeting cards. One solution, that’s also a lot of fun, is to send holiday eCards instead.

You can pick out one to send to your whole list or pick different cards for everyone. Then all you have to do is enter the recipients’ email addresses, hit the “send” button, and you’re finished!

Holiday eCards range from funny to irreverent, beautiful, inspiring, religious, and everything in between. You’ll find cards that talk, sing, dance, and repeat what you tell them to say. You’ll even find video cards you can attach a photo of your own face to.

Most people are aware of Hallmark and American Greetings eCards, and here are a few more that offer unique holiday greetings:

Personalized Purse Hanger Hook

Never have to set your purse on the floor again when dining out with this handy gift. The hanger hooks to the back of your chair and can handle purses of any size and weight. Free engraving of a single initial. Available from $14 at online retailers.

Personalized Hometown Puzzle

Create a unique 400-piece, full-color puzzle showing a 24-square mile detailed map around your home. It shows main roads, vegetation, bodies of water, and notable buildings and comes in a presentation box. $39.99 at online retailers.

Custom Designed M&Ms for Candy Lovers

Pick your colors, message, art, or even your own photos to personalize 7-ounce bags of M&Ms. Choose from holiday images, special occasions, or you can even have them stamped with your favorite NFL team! Prices start at $15 for an 8-ounce acrylic container. Go to www.mymms.com and let the fun begin!

www.jacquielawson.com

Intricate, animated and interactive eCards created

by British illustrator Jacquie Lawson. Possibly the most beautiful eCards online.

www.jibjab.com

You’ll find a variety of formats but check out the video eCards in which you’re the star of singing and dancing videos (simply upload photos of your face or other people’s faces). Picture your recipient as Pharrell singing and dancing to “Happy.”

At Affinity Kitchen & Bath, we bring the newest trends in cabinetry and countertops directly to you:  Complimentary in-home design

consultation and estimate

www.bluemountain.com

There is a wide range of card options on this site highlighted by talking cards with human and animal characters that say what you write for them, singing cards, and print-at-home cards.

 The area’s largest selection of countertop

Each website is different but some of the features they offer include address books to store all your emails in, eCards for every holiday and occasion, free trials, auto renewals, and one-year memberships (ranging from $14.00 to $19.99 annually). Be sure to read each website’s “terms of service” for details and cancellation options.

 A+ Accreditation by the Better

materials

 Fully automated in-house fabrication

Business Bureau

Visit our newly expanded showroom Bring in this ad and receive an upgraded edge proole for free!

1035 N. Lime Avenue

www.srq-kitchens.com | 941.953.3240

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Cabinets - Countertops - Closets

Lights in Bloom at Selby Gardens

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E

Pets Love the Holidays Too

very year pet owners shower their furry and feathery friends with holiday gifts; a clear indication of just how much we love them — and with good reason.

Pets fill very real human needs. They provide companionship, loyalty, unconditional love, and friendship; they satisfy the human need to nurture; and stress levels can be measurably reduced just by cuddling them. No wonder they’re high on our holiday shopping lists.

If you’ve ever watched as a dog tears through wrapping paper to reach a new stuffed toy, or a cat’s excited reaction to the lure of catnip wafting through a small package, then you know how much pets love to open gifts.

Popular Holiday Pet Gifts Suncoast pet shops and online retailers will be offering an abundant assortment of gifts for your little friends this holiday season. Here are a few of the most popular: For Dogs: Choose from colorful collars and leashes; chew sticks or rawhide chews in every flavor imaginable (beef, chicken, peanut butter, and vegetable versions); rope toys give your pup some-

thing to chew on; stuffed toys are a favorite; dog shoes, and raincoats are popular (and stylish); and nice, soft dog beds are always appreciated.

For Cats: In addition to treats, feathered cat toys, and imitation mice, cats love to climb and scratch tall carpet-covered “condos” complete with ladders, ledges and small “rooms” perfect for cat naps; plush beds are great for cats (every feline worth its salt is an expert on comfort); and since cats love to sit on the highest structure they can find, you can give them special wall-mounted platforms designed to give them the highest vantage point in the room.

For Birds and Fish: If your little friend has feathers or scales, you can always choose upgrades for cages and aquariums. Birds love treats, new toys, and maybe a mirror to admire their pretty faces. Fish will always be interested in new coral, driftwood, or maybe a castle or treasure chest.

he holiday season is here bringing with it the 12th annual Lights in Bloom at Selby Gardens. This popular event will run from Friday, December 18 through Wednesday, December 30 from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. (closed December 24 and 25).

Enrich your holiday season with a walk through beautiful Selby Gardens surrounded by more than 500,000 holiday lights. Enjoy a magical wonderland of illuminated live flowers and plants, decorative butterflies and dragonflies, holiday music featuring some of Sarasota’s finest performers, food and beverages, and other festive activities. Perennial favorites and new features for 2015 include: Santa’s Workshop and Toyland

Have your picture taken with Santa Claus and enjoy old-fashioned games like tic-tactoe, tops, and bean bag toss. Santa will be on hand through Wednesday, December 23 (before he returns to the North Pole to prepare for Christmas Eve.) The Winter Wonderland Tunnel

Experience nightly snowfalls in this massive tunnel filled with lights that transport you from the tropics to the North Pole for your visit with Santa.

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The Radiant Rainforest

The family-friendly Ann Goldstein Children’s Rainforest Garden is decorated in tropical holiday flair for the young and young-at-heart to enjoy. Lighted butterflies and oversized flowers add to the playfulness of the garden.

The Wishing Tree

This special area is a place where guests can choose a colored ribbon and leave a written memory or wish for friends and loved ones.

Different colors represent happiness, tranquility, peace, celebration, or In Memoriam.

Holiday Splendor at the Payne Mansion

See the mansion decked out for the holidays with an extensively decorated façade and 20-foot Bromeliad Holiday Tree. There will be music and festivities throughout the mansion with the interior transformed into a glittering “Holiday Showhouse” by talented interior designers.

Ticket Information

Tickets are available online or in person.

Adults: $25, Members: $20; Children ages 5-12: $7.50, Children under 5 are free. You can opt for “The Selby Experience” tickets which include reserved parking, early admission, open bar, cocktail buffet, and holiday

500,000 lights illuminate Selby Gardens and the Payne Mansion.

desserts. Adults: $100, Children ages 5-12: $30. Selby Gardens is located at 900 S. Palm Avenue in Sarasota. To purchase tickets in advance, visit www.selby.org.

From Sarasota

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t can be a challenge to choose just the right gifts for friends and family, but on the Suncoast we don’t have to look any further than our own back yard. You’ll find an abundance of tasty treats, gourmet foods, fine wines, and unique items that are made right here in our own community.

And whether you visit the shops or order and ship gifts from their websites, you’ll share a bit of our community and support local businesses at the same time. Here are a few ideas to start your search.

As Good as it Gets

When entering As Good as it Gets, you’ll notice the intriguing sign that states: Purveyor of Extraordinary Delicacies; and that’s exactly what you’ll find in this charming shop filled with exceptional culinary products. Feast your eyes as you browse the 38 types of European cheeses; charcuterie (prepared meats such as ham, salami, chorizo, saucisson, foie gras); smoked salmon from Scotland; caviar; gourmet Swiss and Belgian chocolate; fine wines handpicked to perfectly complement your selections; a wide assortment of black, green, white, and herbal teas; gourmet vinegars and oils; hibiscus blossoms, fig mustard, chestnut cream, and many other unusual condiments. You may also order custom gift baskets brimming with tantalizing combinations of store items. Shop in person or online — either will provide an enjoyable experience. The store is at 49 South Palm Avenue in Sarasota or visit www.asgoodasitgets49palm.com.

Rosa Fiorelli Winery and Vineyard

In the gently rolling hills of eastern Manatee County this award winning winery brings the heart and soul of its Sicilian roots to Southwestern Florida. When Rosa Fiorelli and her husband Antonio came to the U.S. from Casteldaccia, Sicily they planted their first grape vines.

Today, 17 years later, the operation has grown to a 10-acre vineyard and 3,000 square foot winery. Wine is a way of life at this family-owned and operated business

for the

Holidays vases; hand painted wooden bowls, trays, and Lazy Susans; handmade clocks; and metal sculptures, wine racks, and tables — all from more than 50 American artisans, many of whom are Floridians.

You’ll also find glassware, tableware, and a variety of items from cookbooks, towels and wall hangings to paperweights, refrigerator magnets, and delightful flower sachets. These handmade items range from the whimsical, to the practical, to purely aesthetic works of art. Visit the shop at 7 S Boulevard of the Presidents on Armand’s Circle in Sarasota, or shop online at www.justbecausesarasota.com.

— a celebration.

And their love for the grape is evidenced in the quality and taste of their signature Old World wines: Rosato, White Muscadine Dessert, Red Noble, Aurora Muscadine White dry, and Blanc du Bois Classico.

Visit the winery Wednesdays through Sundays for wine tastings with cheese and crackers. Lunch tours are available on Saturdays and Sundays with advance reservations and ordering (inquire at the winery as blackout dates may apply). And don’t miss the regular “Wine and Dine in the Vines” evenings which include tours, wine, and delicious chef-prepared dinners (check at the winery for upcoming dates). Rosa Fiorelli Winery and Vineyard is located at 4250 CR 675, Bradenton. Or shop online at www.fiorelliwinery.com.

Tropical Shores Gourmet Popcorn Co.

Sarasota’s first gourmet popcorn store offers more than 40 flavors of popcorn, saltwater taffy, and homemade fudge. If you’re a popcorn fan (or have someone on your holiday shopping list who is) you’ll be hard pressed to find a bigger — or more creative — variety to tempt your taste buds.

Tropical Shores offers three kinds of popcorn — savory, sweet, and signature — and here’s just a sampling of the flavors you’ll find: Caramel Cashew, Cajun Ranch, Cinnamon Sunburn, Dill Pickle, White Chocolate Pretzel, Cheesy Cheddar, Movie Theater Butter, Parmesan Garlic, Kettle Corn, Blue Raspberry, Coconut, Cheese Cake, English Toffee, Green Apple, Watermelon, Key Lime, Tropical Storm Mix (a candy coated mix of tropical flavors), Hurricane Mix (a candy coated mix of fruit flavors), Pina Colada, and Oreo® Cheesecake (sweet vanilla candy coated popcorn coated in white chocolate and tossed with crushed Oreos®. You may also purchase

Just/Because

Barbara Bria Pugliese and Maria Bria Cohen, owners of Just/Because, are sisters who share the philosophy that there is more to life than mass produced products. Each has a sharp eye for finding beautiful and unique gifts and home accessories for their boutique. Searching the country for oneof-a-kind items, Barbara and Maria fill the shop with handmade jewelry pieces; paintings for contemporary and traditional décor; painted canvas collage; brilliant hand-blown glass; colorful pottery bowls, plates, teapots, boxes, and 18

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an assortment of colorful gift boxes and popcorn buckets made especially to house your delectable choices. You can stop by the store at 2121 Siesta Drive in Sarasota or check out the full menu and order online anytime at www.tropicalshorespopcorn.com.

Floribbean Flo’s Gift Emporium and Tropical Bakery

Floribbean Flo’s captures the spirit of the Suncoast with unique gifts, great food, and a bakery that has been praised by the Sarasota Herald-Tribune, Southern Living Magazine, Sarasota Magazine, and Florida Travel and Life Magazine. That’s a lot of praise.

There are so many products at Flo’s, we’ll just list a sampling.

Popular bakery goods include Flo’s famous key lime pie and one-of-akind HoneyBell Orange Cake, tropical fruits and nuts baked into pies, cakes, tarts, and gourmet cookies (like the Key Lime Coconut Cookie and Caribbean Rum flavored Florida Cracker Cookie); gift baskets filled with flavorful treats; a large variety of special gourmet items such as Floribbean key lime marmalade, chocolate hazelnut truffles shaped like seashells, chocolates and toffees, pasta in the shape of flamingos, key lime pie hard candies, key lime cooler cookies, sweet breads, pecan orange blossom honey jelly, an abundance of fruit, a variety of meats and cheeses, nuts, pretzels, condiments, sauces, oils, dips, and much more. You’ll even find apparel including Havaianas sandals and tee shirts. Take a trip to the store at 7644 Tamiami Trail S in Sarasota or have a good time shopping online at www.floribbean.com.

Managing Stress During the Holidays

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or many, the approach of the holiday season brings a host of special activities — gatherings, gift giving, beautiful decorations, parties, and family traditions.

But when there are too many activities and not enough hours in the day to get them done, the holiday magic is lost in a stressful rush of errands, shopping, cooking, wrapping, school activities, and socializing.

If you’ve experienced holiday stress, you’re not alone, and it generally boils down to some basic causes: having too many things to do; financial concerns; unrealistic expectations; and fatigue. Following a few simple guidelines can help overcome stress so you can enjoy the holiday season. t Prioritize your commitments and activities. Don’t commit to more than you can comfortably handle. You can only do so much.

Decide which activities mean the most to you and say “no” to the rest.

To help handle stress over the holidays, make time to relax and unwind.

t Deal with finances up front. Make a realistic assessment of how much you can spend, prepare a written holiday budget that covers everything (gifts, food, activities), and then stick to it. t Don’t expect a perfect holiday. It’s nice to hope for a movie-perfect holiday season, but it rarely happens. Instead, focus on consciously enjoying each good experience as it happens. You may find some very special “perfect holiday” moments to cherish. t Take care of yourself. Enjoy holiday fare in moderation, but try to eat right, drink plenty of water, exercise, and get a good night’s sleep. It will work wonders toward relieving stress and keeping you in top shape — mentally and physically. t Make the time to relax and unwind. Just a few quiet moments can alleviate stress. Take time to sit and admire the tree lights with a glass of tea, or soak in a tub with calming lavender bath oil. t Remember to breathe! It’s simple, but it works. A nice deep inhale/exhale will relieve stress almost instantly. t Keep laughing. According to the Mayo Clinic, laughter relieves mental and physical stress, makes you feel relaxed, and improves your immune system.

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Christmas Celebrations around the World

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hristmas is one of the most cherished holidays in the world.

The message of peace and kindness to our fellow beings resonates in the hearts of people from every corner of the globe. Christmas traditions worldwide encompass both the secular and sacred and while many are very similar to the celebrations we know and love, some are quite different.

AUSTRALIA

Australians have many Christmas traditions that are similar to ours: Christmas trees or decorating with sprigs from the Christmas Bush, (a native plant with green leaves and star-shaped red flowers), light displays, gift giving, attending church on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day, and family gatherings with a big Christmas dinner.

A popular Aussie tradition is “Carols by Candlelight” when people all over the country gather outside in the evenings to light

candles and sing Christmas carols

under the stars.

Christmas comes in the middle of summer in Australia and a popular children’s song started the tradition that, because it’s too hot for reindeer, Santa’s sleigh is pulled by “six white boomers” (six white kangaroos) named Jackaroo, Snow, Bluey, Curly, Desert Head, and Two-Up.

GREECE

In Greece, the Christmas season is a solemn and sacred time of year. The twelve days of Christmas begin on Christmas Day and end on January 6 with Epiphany.

Greek customs include attending Midnight Mass, singing kalandas (Christmas carols) handed down for Greek treats served at Christmas centuries, and feasting at celebrations include baklava. family gatherings. Traditional Christmas dinner includes pork or lamb (although turkey is becoming increasingly popular), baklava, melomakarona and kourabiedes (cookies), and christopsomo (bread of Christ), made on Christmas Eve. Many Greeks burn a yule log continuously from Christmas to the Epiphany. The yule fire began as a way to ward off mischievous and sometimes malevolent goblin-like creatures called kallikantzaroi. In Greek folklore it was believed that these

Find M o Online re Sunco at as Holida t Guide.c y om

unpleasant visitors arrived on Christmas to harass and frighten people. The fire kept the kallikantzaroi from entering the house through the chimney. On the day of Epiphany, these goblins return to their underground domain.

DENMARK

During the Christmas season, Danes decorate with advent wreaths and candles, mistletoe, holly, and evergreen boughs. The tree is usually brought into the house and decorated the day before Christmas.

“Juleaften” (Christmas Eve) starts with a late afternoon candlelight church service, followed by Christmas dinner in the evening.

Festivities include lighting real candles on the Christmas tree, dancing around the tree holding hands while singing traditional Christmas hymns and songs,

and opening gifts brought by “Julemanden” (the Danish version of Santa Claus) who is usually a family member dressed up for the role. The evening ends with cookies and marzipan, hot chocolate for the children, and glogg (mulled wine) for the adults.

Folk tales tell of “Julenisse,” little gnomes who are known for pulling pranks on Christmas Eve. That’s why many Danish families set out a bowl of rice porridge for the Julenisse so they’ll behave.

FRANCE The French don’t usually set up Christmas trees, but a popular tradition is to display a crèche, or Nativity scene, inside their homes. These decorative pieces often include other figures in addition to the Holy Family, Wisemen, A church in Triel-Sur-Seine, France displays a shepherds and animals.

Nativity scene during the Christmas season.

You may find town dignitaries, bakers, farmers, and local characters represented.

Families gather on Christmas Eve to attend a midnight church service to sing Christmas carols and hear church bells. Then they return home to partake in “Reveillion,” a late meal that — depending on what part of France you’re in — might include baked ham, roast turkey with chestnuts, roast goose, oysters, lobster, cheeses, fruit, nuts, and wine, followed by a chocolate sponge cake yule log call “buche de Noel.”

Before going to bed, children put their shoes in front of the fireplace, eagerly anticipating a visit from Pere Noel (Father Christmas) who will fill the shoes with presents and, if they have a tree, hang small toys and treats on the boughs to be discovered on Christmas Day. 22

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