Infini Magazine December 2020 Issue 14

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Make the Most of Holiday Gatherings This Year

The holiday season may look different this year, but family, friends, gratitude and good food never go out of style. This year, you can make the most of your intimate holiday gatherings with new traditions, cooking shortcuts and creative ways to keep friends and family close, no matter how far apart you are.

For more information and ideas to spice up your holiday meal this season, visit BobEvans.com

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Thank you for stopping by for interview. Infini wishes you a Merry Christmas and a Happy Birthday!

Thank you for having me.

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This Holiday Season, Doctors Urge Public to Make Safety a Top Priority

(StatePoint) With COVID-19 infections at an all-time high, medical experts urge the public to make safety their number one priority throughout the holiday season.

“Nearly a year into this pandemic, people are yearning for a return to normalcy. However, COVID-19 cases are surging and with flu season already upon us, bringing together people from different households during the holidays is far too great a safety risk,” says Susan R. Bailey, M.D., president of the American Medical Association (AMA).

During this unusual year, the AMA is sharing top tips for a safe and healthy holiday season: 1. It may not be the way you’re used to celebrating, but consider limiting this year’s gatherings to just the people who live in your household.

2. If you live somewhere warm, you may be able to add a few people to your plans, but only if your get together is outdoors and safely physically distant.

3. Take advantage of the video conferencing technologies available at your fingertips to bridge the distance between you and family or friends. Whether it’s watching holiday movies, unwrapping gifts or sharing recipes together, many of these traditions can still happen virtually.

4. Interested in holiday deals and discounts? Shop for bargains from home. And if you must go to the store in person and you’re at-risk, check ahead of time to see if there are special hours for you.

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5. Consider additional outdoor activities that can bring together other people in your circle without the dangers of dining inside. Go apple picking, leaf peeping or hiking. Think beyond the traditional holiday activities and start new traditions.

6. Disappointed that your usual large dinner is for a smaller group? You can still cook a large meal and share a portion with neighbors or friends. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends “delivering them in a way that doesn’t involve contact with others.”

7. Continue to follow everyday safety guidelines to prevent the spread of COVID-19: wash your hands, maintain physical distancing and #MaskUp. More health resources, along with tips to prevent the spread of COVID-19, are available at amaassn.org.

“Missing holiday traditions is difficult, but with top scientists and researchers working round the clock to combat this virus, I’m hopeful that by this time next year, friends and family will be together again, one way or another,” says Dr. Bailey. *****

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How to Select Safe Toys for Kids This Holiday Season

(StatePoint) Children look forward to opening their holiday presents all year. However, there are some things to keep in mind to make sure gifts are safe and appropriate.

To help you make savvy selections, PlaySafe.org from The Toy Association, the premier site for toy safety information, is offering the following guidance: • Avoid shady sellers: This time of year can be especially costly, making it tempting to shop around.

However, that low priced toy may not actually be “a good deal.”

“U.S. toy safety laws are considered the gold standard. Before reaching your home, a toy is subjected to over 100 different safety standards and tests and must be certified compliant by an independent testing laboratory,” says Joan Lawrence, The Toy Association’s “Toy Safety Mom” and senior vice president of standards and regulatory affairs. “The cheap imitations and counterfeits available online from illicit sellers haven’t met these same safety standards.”

A recent survey commissioned by The Toy Association of U.S. parents who are their household’s primary toy purchaser revealed that 71 percent of parents whose kids get holiday gifts from grandparents who shop online aren’t completely confident that their elders know how to ensure that toys are from verified sellers. In the same survey, 19 percent of parents report that their child has received a knock-off toy that was bought online.

Parents should talk to gift purchasers about sticking with verified sellers. This includes buying directly from brand websites or by following provided links to official retailers selling a brand’s products. For those who do choose to shop through lesser-known online sellers, checking out reviews and a product’s legitimacy before making a purchase is essential.

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• Follow age recommendations: Playing with toys above a child’s age grade can lead to misuse and possible injury. However, 26 percent of parents in The Toy Association survey report that their kid has received a toy which was meant for kids who were older. Pay special attention to age grading on product labels and encourage family members who are also toy shopping to do the same. These are not merely suggestions, they’re firm recommendations made by safety experts based on childhood developmental stages. Find this information on labels and in product descriptions. If it’s not available, that’s a red flag and could mean the toy is illicit.

• Pay attention to toys labeled 3+: Toys labeled 3+ may contain small parts that can be a choking hazard for children under 3 or kids who still mouth toys. While these items often make great gifts for older kids, they should be stowed away after playtime to keep younger siblings safe. Not sure if a toy is small enough to be hazardous? Consider getting a Small Parts Tester to test toys and other small household objects.

• Monitor playtime: Kids find ways to play with things that are not toys, including objects that can be very dangerous if accidentally swallowed. The holiday season may introduce new curiosities to the house (e.g. batteries, high-powered magnets, decorations, medications from visiting family members). On the other hand, there is a federal law that requires batteries in toys to be kept inaccessible, thanks to the use of a locking mechanism. Keep dangerous, non-toy items out-of-reach and monitor children during playtime.

For additional toy safety information, tips and resources, visit PlaySafe.org.

“Don’t let your child unwrap a potential safety hazard this holiday season,” says Lawrence. “By shopping smart you can ensure safe play.”

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Screen-Free Holiday Gift Ideas That Inspire Kids (StatePoint) Shopping for holiday gifts for kids? Looking for activities that don’t involve a screen? Consider toys and activities that will inspire them this holiday season and beyond. Here are four great gift ideas that will encourage kids to be creative and use their imaginations: • Arts and crafts: Craft kits give kids all the tools they need to take a project start to finish. Whether it’s beaded jewelry, scented soaps, or sand art, when projects are completed, kids will feel accomplished and inspired to take their crafting to the next level.

• Horse play: Create magnificent braids and let kids bring their own vision of horse beauty to life with a gift like Breyer Mane Beauty Styling Heads. Bringing a love of hair play and horses together, Mane Beauty Styling Heads are realistically sculpted and decorated with long, silky, no-tangle manes.

Available in three styles -- Blaze (black mane), Daybreak (white mane) and Sunset (blonde mane) -each styling head includes all the tools kids need like a mane comb, mane clips and elastics.

Recommended for ages 5+, this gift is available at Tractor Supply, in stores and online. Visit breyerhorses.com to learn more.

• Screen-free adventure: Getting lost in a good book is a rewarding adventure every kid should experience. No screens required! Reading inspires imagination and helps children explore worlds outside themselves. Give classic books that you loved as a child for a shared experience you both can enjoy. Traditional books are hugely popular again and are gifts that truly last.

• Open-ended playtime: From kitchen playsets that foster interest in the culinary arts to workshop playsets that spark an interest in carpentry and mechanics, playing pretend offers open-ended fun and helps kids build confidence and social skills.

This holiday season, make a list and check it twice to be sure that it includes gifts that inspire.

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Creative, Colorful Christmas Ideas for Kids

(Family Features) Picking out the perfect presents for kids this holiday doesn’t limit your search to simply including gifts with screens or the hottest tech gadgets.

Although the amount of options in store and on virtual shelves for kids can be somewhat overwhelming, gifts fostering imaginative play and creativity never go out of style. Even if it seems your children already have pretty much everything, getting back to the basics with crafty gifts like paint and art sets, color and wash collectibles, science kits or customizable DIY projects encourage children to express their creativity and explore their inner-artists.

Consider these activities that can spark imagination and allow kids of all ages to create colorful memories this holiday season. Find more at Crayola.com.

Custom Craft Creations Give the kids creative freedom with an option like Crayola’s Maker series, which allows them to create custom paper and markers for arts and crafts time at home or school projects. The Marker Maker comes with 16 makeable markers along with a color mixing guide and customizable labels for each one. The Paper Maker includes an instruction booklet, paper-making pulp to make 20 sheets of 5-by-8-inch paper, a stir and smoothing tool and a pressure plate. Both kits make it fun and easy to craft DIY cards, decor, notes and other projects.

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Colorful Pets Kids can take imaginative, creative play to new places this holiday season with the Scribble Scrubbie Pets Grooming Truck. This life-like environment includes a grooming truck with moving wheels and features a real working spray pump and scrub tub that allow kids to wash and clean the two included pets just like real groomers do. The truck also doubles as an easy-to-pack storage solution for taking the customizable pets on-the-go for later use. After creating a colorful look for their pets using washable markers, kids can simply scrub them clean for a fresh blank canvas to create over and over.

Photo courtesy of Getty Images (child opening present)

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3 Ways to Treat Yourself with Self-Care This Holiday Season

(StatePoint) 2020 has thrown us all a lot of curveballs, so it’s no surprise that the concept of self-care is getting a lot of traction in many health and wellness circles. Treating yourself with healthy activities can improve your mental and physical state and help you be more present with friends and family this holiday season.

Here are three ways to treat yourself and indulge in a little TLC, for everyone’s benefit, during the holidays.

1. Makeover your morning: Rise an hour before everyone else in your household to enjoy a cup of coffee or tea. Use the time to meditate, stretch, write in a gratitude journal or visualize a successful day ahead.

2. Make a list of your favorite things: Write down ideas that genuinely bring you joy and fill you with a sense of purpose. To ensure you're finding time to do them, schedule them in your calendar. Activities could be anything from going for a run to buying fresh flowers or tackling an arts and crafts project.

3. Invest in new gear: Sometimes, the best motivator for getting active is a new piece of clothing or accessory you feel confident wearing.

“Whether updating accessories to reflect the latest trends or choosing something to support daily step goals, new footwear is a great way to treat yourself,” says Alyson Stanley, buyer for national retailer Rack Room Shoes.

For those on-the-go, athletic styles such as Nike Air Max Excee and Brooks Ghost 12 running sneakers offer support to help reach health and wellness initiatives. To enjoy something ultracomfortable that allows you to transition between activities easily or to wear when you are lounging at home, try a classic Crocs with fun update – a fuzzy inner liner. And, to accessorize a stylish outfit, try a Dr. Martens Zavala combat boot available in various holiday-inspired colors. For all your family’s footwear needs, visit rackroomshoes.com for online shopping or curbside pickup options.

Once you have the plan in place, get into a self-care routine that works for you. Doing so can help you enjoy the holidays while breathing a little easier.

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How to spread joy to everyone from anywhere this holiday

(BPT) - COVID-19 restrictions mean the 2020 holiday season will be different this year, but that doesn't mean you have to become a Grinch. Although extensive travel, large group gatherings and many traditional activities can't happen, you can find imaginative ways to be just as joyful with a dash of creativity. In fact, many people are embracing this as an opportunity to take a unique approach and discover new ways to make one-of-a-kind memories with family, friends and coworkers.

Alternative approaches to work holiday parties The culmination of the work year is the annual holiday celebration. This is typically a time to enjoy great food, fun games and cheers to a job well done. However, with the pandemic causing many offices to go remote as well as restrictions for restaurants and group gatherings, this year will have to be a celebration of a different kind. Fortunately, technology is making many things possible.

Employers want to show employees they care and are expected to shake things up in creative ways.

This could include sending meals to everyone through home delivery and then meeting online to enjoy them together. This might be a video gathering for an ugly sweater contest paired with fun games that can be played digitally such as bingo and holiday trivia. Maybe it's hiring a live musician to play and everyone can sign in for a virtual happy hour while enjoying the customized tunes. Might someone suggest karaoke?!

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Online shopping expected to soar Last year, 56% of consumers reported they would make their holiday purchases online vs. at retail stores, according to the National Retail Federation. The experts at Purchasing Power - an employee purchase program - have witnessed this trend growing exponentially since March and expect at-home shopping to soar over the upcoming holidays. With so many people continuing to work or attend school at home, Purchasing Power anticipates the most popular (and practical) gifts to be purchased and delivered right to people's doors include new laptops and home electronics, personal health and fitness equipment and ergonomic office furniture. Of course, toys, video games - there are many new products and gaming systems this year for kid and adult gamers - and small luxury items will still bring smiles to those longing for unexpected surprises during the 2020 holidays.

With money being tight for many families this year, employers want to help by offering things like year-round financial programs that allow workers to purchase items without the stress or high-interest rates associated with credit cards. Ask your employer about voluntary benefits like Purchasing Power, which enables you to buy name-brand consumer products and services and pay over the course of a year through automated payroll deduction, with no interest, fees or required credit checks. Learn more at www.purchasingpower.com.

Travel less, make more memories at home With airline travel at a minimum and health top of mind, many people won't be traveling to bake holiday treats and celebrate good tidings in person. Consider alternatives this year and plan a family video chat time to bake cookies together. Select and share a recipe ahead of time and then sign on to your digital device to talk with each other as you each prepare dough, bake and enjoy treats. This might be the perfect time to tackle that traditional family recipe that's been handed down for generations and see who proves most successful.

For younger children with shorter attention spans, you may just want to plan a virtual cookie or cupcake decorating party. Or perhaps you get crafty and make some hand-cut snowflakes or colorful paper garlands. As you add the perfect touches to holiday treats, exchange memories of holidays past and even pull out old family photo albums or videos to reminisce. Make sure to enjoy a few treats together and take video stills to capture these special moments for future celebrations. Finally, wrap the fun up by reading a traditional holiday book to little ones before bedtime.

The 2020 holiday season is sure to be unique, but "different" can still be good. With an optimistic mindset and clever ideas, you'll put a new spin on family and workplace traditions and make some lasting memories.

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Tips to help manage holiday stress during COVID-19

(BPT) - Feeling stressed? You're not alone. Stress levels are rising due to the COVID-19 pandemic and the numerous disruptions in our daily lives.

The American Psychological Association recently reported that "we are facing a national mental health crisis that could yield serious health and social consequences for years to come." And it's not just adults who are feeling it. The report reveals that our children are "facing unprecedented uncertainty, are experiencing elevated stress, and are already reporting symptoms of depression."

Although a modest amount of stress is normal, high levels of stress can be dangerous to your health and may contribute to serious health problems such as high blood pressure, heart disease, diabetes, anxiety and depression. Therefore, make sure to keep a close eye on your well-being and the wellbeing of your loved ones during the holidays.

It's true, there is no magic bullet to make stress disappear forever, but we can take steps to reduce stress. Ann Marie O'Brien, R.N., national director of health engagement strategies at UnitedHealthcare, shares the following tips that may reduce your stress and lead to a more enjoyable holiday season. * Learn to recognize your holiday stress triggers and relievers. Financial pressures and personal demands are two common triggers. Also, beware of unhealthy stress relievers. Holiday stress may cause some people to fall into bad habits such as smoking, drinking or eating too much.

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* Give yourself a break. While doing things for others, it's easy to forget to take care of ourselves. If you feel stress building up, take a break for a few minutes. Listening to calming music, taking time to watch a movie, or just getting away to take a brief walk can give you time to unwind and recharge. * Make time for your health. In the holiday rush, don't let your well-being fall by the wayside. Try to stay on your normal sleep schedule, incorporate healthy foods and get regular exercise. If you can't find a 30-minute chunk of time for exercise, break it up into three 10-minute sessions spread throughout the day. * Check your health plan benefits. Some insurers, such as UnitedHealthcare, offer behavioral health care programs that can range from caring for your mental health to treatment for substance abuse, with a goal of helping improve your overall well-being. For example, SanvelloÂŽ offers clinically validated techniques and tools to reduce stress, anxiety and depression within a single app. Sanvello is free to download from the app stores and you can do an instant eligibility check in the app. * Enjoy, even if it's virtually. In the flurry of holiday activities, we sometimes forget what we're celebrating, so remember to savor the time with people you love. If you or others you know are unable to meet in person, use a phone or set up a Zoom call to celebrate and spend time together.

It's important to minimize any feelings of isolation. * Talk to your doctor. If it feels like you're not able to get a handle on your stress, talk to your doctor.

She or he may recommend a counselor who could help you find other ways to help reduce or manage the unhealthy stress in your life.

For more health and wellness information, visit UHC.com.

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Shop Small and Give Back This Holiday Season (Family Features) This year has been tough for many. Despite the challenges, acts of compassion and generosity can bring together the global community. With this holiday season different than those before, it is important to remember the world’s shared humanity and help make the season brighter.

For those who will be celebrating this season and are looking for gifts that give back, UNICEF Market offers an online collection of handcrafted gifts made by artisans from around the world. Supporting these small businesses helps both the artisans – many of whom are dealing with economic hardship because of the pandemic – and the lifesaving mission of the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF).

The platform brings business to artists like Mirian Otzin from Central America, who began weaving using Mayan techniques with her mother as a hobby at the age of 8. Otzin worked for a female weavers organization for 16 years before becoming an entrepreneur.

“This is something I'm grateful to UNICEF Market for because for me and many artists like me, this is our only source of income,” she said. “Thanks to its system and the space it’s opened up for artisan women like me, we still have hope that we can overcome this pandemic. During these hardships, we’re still crafting in our home-based workshops, making sure we’re following all the health protocols set by our health departments and the platform’s rules that we must follow to keep everyone safe.”

Featuring an array of woven goods, Otzin’s profile includes table linens, cushion covers and bags. In addition to Otzin, more than 2,000 artisans are empowered on the platform. These entrepreneurs share their talents, selling their handcrafted items for homes and gardens, jewelry and more, such as reclaimed stone flowerpots and onyx and marble chess sets from Mexico, teakwood cutting boards from Thailand, silk tapestries from Ghana and knit blankets from India.

A portion of gifts’ proceeds also help fund lifesaving programs such as nutrition, sanitation, education and more in the more than 190 countries where UNICEF works. Since the COVID-19 pandemic started, the organization’s 13,000 staffers have reached 250 million children with distance-based learning and 2.88 billion people with virus prevention information, as well as delivering more than 234 million units of personal protective equipment, hospital equipment and diagnostic tests to frontline workers globally. As the largest vaccine buyer in the world, the organization is set to lead the procurement and supply of COVID-19 vaccines in the world’s biggest and fastest operation of its kind.

Share the best of this season by visiting unicefusa.org/ShopSmall2020.

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Bring joy back into a family's life this holiday season

(BPT) - 2020 has been a year of change, reflection and resilience. But most of all, 2020 has been a year of seeking new ways to connect - with your family and loved ones, or with others in your community who need support.

Now more than ever, hope is essential. And for a family of a child fighting a critical illness, hope is the one thing that can help them replace fear with confidence, and sadness with joy. What better way to celebrate the holiday season with your whole family than by raising funds to help these families?

Together, you can enjoy the wonderful feeling of knowing you're helping to bring joy back into a family's life.

How can you help another family?

Families For Wishes is a Make-A-WishÂŽ campaign that provides an easy way to raise funds to support their mission to create life-changing wishes for children with critical illnesses. People near and far can use the mobile-friendly campaign to come together and give back, showing these MakeA-Wish families they are not alone in their fight.

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Starting your own Families For Wishes page is as easy as 1-2-3: * Visit FamiliesForWishes.org.

* Enter your U.S. zip code to find a Make-A-Wish chapter team near you and click "Sign Up." The funds raised on your page will support families in this team's area. * Create your family fundraising page, add a picture and begin fundraising.

How will your fundraising help children?

Children nationwide are waiting for their wish to come true, and thanks to Make-A-Wish, many of their wishes are being fulfilled. For example, twins Nicholas and Max, who have critical gastrointestinal disorders, had been spending more time in the hospital than at home, sometimes sharing a hospital room.

Nicholas and Max's wishes both came true in 2016.

"The entire wish experience was incredible," said their mother, Michelle. "We were overwhelmed by the support of donations from people we didn't even know."

After the family enjoyed their wish, they decided it was time to give back. "The wishes are great memories for us that we will always treasure and reminisce about," their mother remembered. "The boys take every opportunity to tell others about their wishes, and they even held a school-wide fundraiser when they were in third grade to raise money for other wish children."

There are more wish kids like Nicholas and Max who are waiting to experience the hope and joy of a wish-come-true. Every dollar raised through Families For Wishes will help: * Grant wishes - A child is diagnosed with a critical illness every 20 minutes. * Give children strength - Research shows children who have wishes granted can build the physical and emotional strength they need to help fight their illness. * Spread joy - You will unite families in life-changing moments that help them cope, and create positive memories to last a lifetime.

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Why participate in Families For Wishes?

Literacy blogger and influencer Charnaie Gordon is also fundraising through Families For Wishes and encourages everyone to participate as a family this year to help others - and leverage to teach your children empathy and compassion.

"I'm a huge believer in volunteering to make a difference in your community," Gordon said. "There are so many people struggling all over the world, but we want our children to know that even small children can help bring about change. By fundraising through Families For Wishes, we hope to help wish kids build their confidence, fight their illnesses and help them realize there are good people in the world who believe in helping others in need."

For children fighting critical illnesses, every day of waiting for a wish is one too many. This holiday season, you can bring joy to a child today so they can look forward to a better tomorrow.

Visit FamiliesForWishes.org to join the community of families giving back this holiday season.

How to grant a wish for a critically ill child this holiday season

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What will Santa Bass bring your favorite angler this holiday season?

(BPT) - Was your favorite angler a good angler this past year? Did they cry? Did they pout? Santa Bass is coming to town and he's been checking his list, twice. He sees all the times when an angler acted with kindness at the boat landing as well as those anglers who cut off another angler at a good fishing spot.

If your favorite angler isn't on Santa Bass's naughty list and deserves lots of gifts this year, here are 10 can't-miss gifts to put under the tree this year.

1. Hot Bass Fishing Lure One of the hottest new lures for 2021 is Rapala's new balsa-wood flat-sided crankbait, the OG Slim 6, designed by 2019 Bassmaster Classic Champion Ott DeFoe. The OG Slim 6 is a non-rattling, easy-casting crankbait that swims with a medium wobble and tight side-to-side action. The lure dives to 6 feet when fished on 12-pound test line - hence the "6" in its name. It's perfect for those who love bass fishing.

2. Fishing Pliers - When an angler catches a big fish and is dealing with big hooks, they need pliers to quickly and safely release a fish. New high-performance Elite Pliers by Rapala are armored with an exclusive coating that protects against abrasion, corrosion and ultra-violet light from the sun. These 7inch pliers include a unique, patented "Mag Spring," which keeps the pliers' hybrid jaws open and ready. Flip the switch and "Mag Lock" tightly secures the jaws for safe storage. The hybrid jaws feature interlocking front teeth, to ensure a lock-tight clasp on hooks.

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3. 50-lb. High Contrast Digital Scale - It's not easy to decide what feature you will like the best with the Rapala 50-lb. High Contrast Digital Scale. The reverse image LCD illuminated screen makes reading the light text on dark background easy, even on bright, sunny days. The directional pad operation offers familiar and intuitive navigation through the menu options. Quick reference for min. and max. bin and total weight. Packed with "must-have" features and a fish friendly gripper to secure your catch. Runs on 2 AAA batteries (not included).

4. Winter Beanies - Keep your favorite angler's noggin warm with a winter beanie. It's perfect for those cold, windy days on the water or ice.

5. Pro-Grade Fishing Line - The only thing between an angler and the fish is the lure hooks and fishing line. Don't leave it up to chance; use what the pros use. Sufix ProMix fishing line is a densely braided, but thin, fishing line that retains its color without costing too much green. It provides consistent quality, superior knot and shock strength, increased abrasion resistance and superior line performance. Its low-stretch qualities provide exceptional lure control, ultimate bite detection and firm hook-setting power.

6. Toothy Monsters - If your favorite angler fishes for big toothy monsters such as muskies and northern pike, consider a large spinnerbait, such as the Blue Fox Super Bou spinnerbait. It measures 8.25 inches long and includes two size No. 8 Colorado blades and super fluffy marabou to create a thumping vibration that big fish can't ignore.

7. Giant Replica Lure - No, it's not a lure for great white sharks. But it does make for an interesting conversation starter. This giant, 29-in. replica of a well-known fishing lure is a natural centerpiece in any guy's mancave. It comes packaged in giant replica lure box carton.

8. Protection Against the Sun and Wind - The best way to stay cool and comfortable on and off the water is with a Rapala Solid Core Performance Shirt. Its trend-forward design offers UV (30 SPF) protection along with moisture-wicking and 100% polyester interlock for ultimate comfort. Available in sizes XS to XXL. 9. Fisherman's Tool Combo - If you're looking for an incredibly practical gift for that very practical angler in your life you can't beat fishing tools such as pliers, a digital scale, scissors and a ruler.

10. Warm sweatshirt - For cold, crisp days on the water, an angler needs a hooded sweatshirt to stay warm from the cold and wind. The Rapala sweatshirt is lined with a full fleece interior to keep your favorite angler comfortable without being too heavy, while a kangaroo front pouch allows for hands to stay toasty warm between casts.

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4 ways to turn holiday gifts into shared experiences

(BPT) – It’s no secret this year’s holiday season is bound to be different. But what hasn’t changed is the search for unique gift ideas and fun new activities to share with the ones we love, whether we’re together or apart. If you want to make an impression on your family and friends this year, it’s time to think outside the gift box. What can you do to make the holidays memorable for hard-to-shop-for relatives and friends? How can you find special new ways to connect with them, even from a distance? Here are a few ideas to get you started: 1. Create a unique story, photo album or scrapbook project Want to gift something truly special to an older relative, lifelong friend or a new couple just starting their journey together? Design and create a storybook highlighting a special time in your lives or showcasing how you met. Put together a photo album or make a scrapbook of shared memories you can send to someone as a memorable, one-of-a-kind keepsake. Collaborate with other friends or family members if you can; it will turn the project into a group experience you'll all treasure. Use mail, email or hand delivery to pass items along so everyone in your group can contribute before the completed project is ready for the recipient to enjoy.

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2. Share the gift of language Do you have an aunt who’s always wanted to learn Italian, or maybe your dad loves to tell stories of his long-ago trip to Japan? Now’s the time to provide them with the opportunity to explore or refresh their language skills with an immersive language app like Rosetta Stone Even better, make it a family affair! Giving a language-learning app to several family members is a great way to explore your family’s cultural heritage. It might even be the first step in a future trip together. As part of your gift, schedule virtual events to and practice your language skills as you learn together. Rosetta Stone’s Dynamic Immersion approach ensures you’re immersed in your new language from the start, with reading, writing, listening and speaking exercises that work with the brain's natural language processing ability to help you learn fast. Their patented speech recognition engine helps you practice pronunciation, so you’ll have the confidence to speak in any situation. Helpful phrasebooks prepare you for the most commonly used phrases you'll need if you're traveling. It’s easy and convenient for users of all ages to begin learning on iPhone, iPad or Android. Visit rosettastone.com/gifts to give the gift of Rosetta Stone this holiday season.

3. Explore the world of multi-player video games Even for people who think they don’t like video games, there’s a gaming experience out there for everyone. Plenty of family-friendly, multiplayer games can make for fun and memorable group activities for all ages. Try easy games involving scenarios that don’t require in-depth gaming knowledge or a long, complicated setup to get going. For example, games where you race alongside one another, manage a farm or build houses in a village full of talking animals have been popular in recent years. Games like these are low-stress ways to pass the time that can cross generations. And thanks to online features, many can easily be played together even if you’re far apart.

4. Stream movies together Thanks to today's technology, there are many ways to view family favorites or holiday classics together, even when you're not in the same room. Several movie streaming services and apps provide options for people to view the same content at the same time; some even allow you to see your viewing companion while you watch, just like you're in the same room. The only tricky part will be getting everyone’s bag of popcorn to pop simultaneously.

If your friend or relative can’t stream with you, you can still make their holiday amazing. Just gift them a subscription to the service or show them how to set it up alongside yours. Making it work so you can enjoy a movie together will be the perfect gift to share.</p><p>This holiday season, make your gifts all about creating quality time together from anywhere and in any language!

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Home -- or Anywhere but Home -- for the Holidays?

(StatePoint) During the holidays, you may be seeking comfort, whether that’s the comfort of home -- or anywhere but home.

With travel precautions making possibilities somewhat limited this year, you may not be able to take the exact trip you’ve been dreaming about. However, whether or not you leave home this holiday season, you can find the comfort you’re seeking in the following ways: • Revisit fond memories. If you can’t travel this holiday season, you can still take a trip down memory lane and safely relive your favorite trips and activities. Unearth your most prized travel mementos, such as pictures, ticket stubs and playbills, and make a scrapbook.

• Home is where the food is. Looking to conjure the aromas and flavors of your childhood? Connect with family members and ask them for recipes. Craving the cuisine of a dream destination? Plan a themed cooking night. If you need a little assistance in expanding your culinary repertoire, consider a virtual cooking class or meal kit. Or, simply venture out for a meal.

• Cultivate culture. Like never before, the world is at our fingertips, from virtual experiences offering never-before-seen access to museums and cultural meccas to classes in literally everything. Let your fingers do the walking and immerse yourself in the culture, language, sights and sounds of your favorite destinations.

• Plan your next trip. Yes, really. Recent data from trivago shows that consumers are already planning for next year’s holiday season, particularly during the week of Christmas. Planning now can make this holiday season seem a little brighter. And if you are not comfortable booking travel too far from home just yet, explore possibilities just a train ride or short drive from your home. Travel sites like trivago offer the ability to discover getaways that are still relatively close to home. To get inspired for your next trip, visit trivago.com.

While you’re thinking of that dream trip, you don’t have to stay put. There is a whole world out there – whether it’s down the block, a short road trip away or accessed online -- that can be visited safely with proper planning and precautions.

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5 Tips for a Safer Digital Experience This Holiday Shopping Season

(StatePoint) Online holiday shopping is booming this year, as more consumers avoid brick-andmortar stores in an effort to socially distance.

According to a national consumer survey by Experian, 62 percent of shoppers will buy from the comfort of their computers. But with many worried about being a victim of identity theft and fraud, it may not be such a jolly experience.

In fact, 57 percent of those surveyed feel there’s a greater risk this year of identity theft because of COVID-19, while 18 percent of survey respondents have already been affected by a coronavirusrelated scam. However, even though consumers are concerned about identity theft, only 49 percent of those surveyed shop on protected internet connections and only 47 percent check if the websites are secure.

“With increased online traffic occurring, the holidays are always a ripe period for cybercriminals.

However, this year is even more attractive for hackers,” says Michael Bruemmer, Experian vice president of Consumer Protection. “Consumers need to make sure they’re following good security practices to keep their information and financial accounts safe and retailers should be vigilant so that shoppers have a positive customer experience.”

For a safer digital experience this holiday shopping season, consumers should consider the following tips:

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1. Don’t use public Wi-Fi: Public networks make it easier for hackers to intercept data and steal sensitive information. Consumers should only enter credit card information or other sensitive data on their phones or computers from home or on a private network, or use a secure virtual private network (VPN) connection.

2. Consider identity theft monitoring: A product like Experian IdentityWorks helps monitor financial accounts and credit reports to identify possible fraud, such as a credit card account being opened in one’s name. Offering fraud resolution support and real-time alerts, comprehensive identity theft monitoring can save consumers valuable time when it matters most.

3. Change passwords: With a password manager, consumers can create strong passwords for online accounts, and change them regularly.

4. Use secure websites: Consumers should only shop on websites they are familiar with and that have a URL that starts with “https” rather than “http.” Https indicates the website has a secured connection, making it much harder to hack.

5. Don’t use a debit card: Credit cards offer much more protection for online purchases than debit cards. If fraud occurs, the money is not gone from an associated checking account and a claim can be filed with their card issuer.

Additional survey data can be found by visiting experian.com/blogs. For more tips to protect against identity theft, visit the Ask Experian blog at experian.com/education.

While scams abound this time of year and this holiday season is presenting additional security threats, being proactive can help put a stop to cybercriminals and hackers.

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2020â&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Best Holiday Gifts for Healthy Living

(StatePoint) Personal wellness is top of mind for many people these days, making some of the most thoughtful holiday gifts those that enable friends and families to live healthy, eco-friendly lives.

Let this gift round-up be your guide to 2020â&#x20AC;&#x2122;s best holiday gifts for healthy living: Healthy Indoor Air Between dust, pet dander, mold and other pollutants, indoor air quality can actually be more contaminated than outside air in some cases. However, you can give the gift of cleaner, healthier air at home with a small air purifier such as the Molekule Air that operates quietly to trap indoor allergens and pollutants. Its carrying handle makes it easy to tote it from room to room, letting it perform its magic throughout the house. Give this gift alone or pair it with an air quality monitor that reports on the levels of the most common indoor air pollutants.

Clean Water Unlike other pitchers for the home, the LifeStraw Home Water Filter Pitcher protects against over 30 contaminants, including bacteria, parasites, microplastics, lead, mercury, chemicals, dirt, sand and cloudiness to improve taste and provide healthier, safer water. Its sleek and sustainable design makes this a stylish gift option, whether you select the BPA-free or glass model.

This is also a gift that gives back in more than one way. Not only does it help reduce single-use plastic waste, but also, for every LifeStraw product purchased, a child in need receives access to safe 31

drinking water for an entire year through the brand’s Give Back program. To shop and learn more, visit lifestraw.com.

Eco-Friendly Fitness Encourage healthy movement and sustainability with an eKo Mat from Manuduka. These yoga mats are made from biodegradable natural tree rubber, are manufactured with zero waste and are free of toxic chemicals, dyes and phthalates. The brand also carries blocks, cushions, bolsters, straps and apparel made from sustainable and post-consumer recycled materials -- basically everything your favorite eco-conscious yogi needs to support their practice.

Fresh Cooking Fresh herbs add zest and depth to meals and are a chock full of vitamins and nutrients.

Unfortunately, store-bought herbs don’t stay fresh all that long. By gifting the Indoor Herb Garden Kit from Mountainlily Farm however -- which includes sweet basil, sage, dill, chives, cilantro and flat leaf parsley -- you can give the home chefs in your life the ability to grow their own constant source of these delicious, healthful ingredients. What’s more, herbs are often sold in wasteful packaging, so an herb kit also helps reduce one’s plastic waste footprint.

This holiday season, give the gift of wellness and help your loved ones live healthy and sustainable lives. *****

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7 Tips for Hosting a Virtual Holiday Cookie Exchange

(StatePoint) It may take a little extra time and creativity, but a holiday cookie exchange can be held virtually and it’s worth the effort according to experts.

“There’s a famous quote, ‘If you do what you love, you'll never work a day in your life.’ It's so true for me as I find great joy in developing easy, flavorful recipes,” says Cindy Gilbert, McCormick Test Kitchen chef. “My friends have come to me for years requesting tips and tricks, and over 20 years ago, they anointed me the annual holiday cookie exchange leader. This past year has been challenging, but I knew I wanted to keep the tradition alive while following social distancing guidelines.”

Here are Gilbert’s top seven tips on hosting your own virtual cookie exchange, along with her favorite delicious McCormick cookie picks.

1. Keep the virtual guest list small and local. Your family and friends’ safety is the most important thing, and no one wants to bake a ton of cookies. Aim for five to 10 people.

Gingerbread Men Cookies – No winter holiday is complete without gingerbread men. They’re cute and can be decorated with raisins, cinnamon red-hot candies or royal icing.

2. Invite cookie enthusiasts. Invite people who enjoy being in the kitchen and welcome sharing their recipe secrets! Tell them they're going to be sharing the story behind their choice.

Red Velvet Crinkle Cookies – This tasty recipe crinkles from the confectioners' sugar, and the deep chocolate red color and taste add up to a cookie you'll be proud to share.

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3. Package cookies in separate portions. Ask participants to package each serving in individual containers or resealable bags of six cookies per serving.

Easy Lemon Cookie Truffles – This is a perfect no-bake option. Lemon extract adds a bright citrus flavor to this easy four-ingredient treat that starts with store-bought sugar cookies.

4. Arrange the exchange. About an hour before the virtual get-together, set up a table outside, in a cul-de-sac or school parking lot. Everyone can take turns grabbing their cookies quickly and safely.

Or, arrange no contact porch drop-offs during a set time.

Holiday Meringue Cookies – These deliciously airy, light, and low-fat meringue cookies are the perfect confection for any holiday celebration. Add your favorite food coloring for a festive twist.

5. Request the recipes. Ask guests to provide a recipe card in their individual packages, or as the host, you can compile the recipes and share through email.

Double Ginger Gingersnaps – A personal favorite of Gilbert’s, these are a ginger lover's dream!

Ground ginger and crystallized ginger make the flavor pop on these cookies, which are crispy on the outside and chewy inside.

6. Share stories via video conference. Many guests like to tell the stories behind their cookies. By scheduling time to connect, you'll likely hear some heartwarming or hilarious anecdotes and maybe even some helpful tidbits.

Sugar Cookie Thumbprints with Spiced Jam – Inspired by a bakery treat, this holiday twist on a classic uses cinnamon or ginger-spiced jam.

7. Have fun. Take time to ask how everyone has been and give them a chance to share what other traditions they’re planning this year. While the party is about cookies, it's also about connecting, having fun and picking up a few new recipes to try.

Pecan Cookie Balls – These buttery melt-in-your-mouth cookies, also known as Mexican Wedding Cakes, make a great addition to any holiday cookie exchange.

Find these recipes and more by visiting McCormick.com/CookieExchange.

With a little creativity and the perfect cookie recipe, you can reinvent your favorite baking traditions for a safe and festive holiday season. *****

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Tips to Redeem Credit Card Rewards for Holiday Gifts (StatePoint) During a holiday season that by all counts will be unlike any other experienced in recent history, shoppers may be looking for creative and nontraditional ways to celebrate and share the festive spirit, while at the same time carefully managing tight budgets in an especially challenging economy.

Offering gift cards during the holidays is nothing new, but the options people have for purchasing and using them are evolving.

Each year, PNC Bank sees a spike in credit card award redemptions during the holidays, and this year, there are more opportunities than ever to exchange points for gift cards without any additional expenses, according to Tammy McIntosh, head of credit card rewards at the bank.

“This year we are seeing more demand as credit card holders are finding new ways to give,” she said.

“Given social distancing guidelines, there are far fewer holiday parties or other in-person engagements, so some may view awarding gift cards as a way to safely say thank you to a friend, newspaper carrier or hair stylist.”

In addition to general merchandise cards that allow recipients to choose their own gifts, other ideas this year include food delivery services, restaurant certificates for catering small gatherings and subscription services – things that may help the recipient offset costs for basic needs.

“In response to customer preferences, PNC and many other credit card issuers have changed their redemption policies to allow for more flexibility,” McIntosh said.

This has been especially true with travel cards, as many are home-bound due to the pandemic’s impacts on travel.

“Check with your issuer to see if it has expanded its redemption catalogue for travel card holders,” McIntosh said. “Many can now convert their travel points into redemption options for a variety of items, including physical and digital gift cards for retail, grocery stores, drug stores, restaurant takeout and delivery, or even charitable donations.”

Further, customers can add value by using their card company’s online shopping portals to receive extra rewards through cash back on those purchases.

“Accruing points throughout the year and redeeming for holiday gift cards, merchandise and even cash, for yourself or as a gift, is as trendy – and easy – as ever,” McIntosh said.

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Keeping Traditions Alive During an Unusual Holiday Season (StatePoint) This holiday season may look a bit different due to social distancing. But just because everyone is not physically together, doesn’t mean your family can’t share its favorite traditions.

The Olesen family of O&H Danish Bakery knows how important holiday traditions are to feeling connected to loved ones. Now in its fourth generation, the familyowned and operated bakery is sharing its best tips for creating holiday cheer from anywhere:

• Celebrate virtually: In a survey commissioned by O&H Danish Bakery and conducted by SWNS Media Group and OnePoll, nearly 80 percent of respondents say time with family is their favorite part of the holiday season.

Whether your tradition is a Christmas movie marathon, a caroling session around the piano or eating certain foods and baked treats, you can enjoy these activities together over video chat this year.

• Share traditional foods: The sensory memories that good food creates are powerful. In fact, 44 percent of people say the holiday spirit wouldn’t be the same if they didn’t have their traditional holiday dessert.

If you are like many families, that favorite dessert is Kringle, a traditional Danish treat made of 36 layers of butter and pastry. Among O&H’s special holiday offerings are Thanksgiving Stuffed Kringle, A Very Danish Christmas Kringle and the classic Pecan Kringle. Over the past 70 years, the award-winning bakery has shipped to more than 100 countries, making landfall in all seven continents, including Antarctica. This year, doorstep delivery makes it easy to order a traditional favorite for your own household or send a gift to family members near and far. Visit ohdanishbakery.com.

• Plan ahead: When it comes to ordering gifts and specially baked treats, make sure to account for busy schedules and congested delivery services to ensure all your goodies arrive on time. Take note of shipping times and policies, as well as ordering deadlines for each company. For example, O&H allows customers to pre-order Kringle and schedule a preferred delivery date in the future.

• Create hygge: Evoking the sights, sounds and aromas of a typical holiday season will help make this year feel more cheerful. Take a cue from Danish culture and embrace hygge. Pronounced “hoo-ga,” it means creating a cozy atmosphere and enjoying the good things in life, such as the warm glow of candlelight or a steaming cup of cocoa -- and there is no better time of year to do it than the holiday season.

This year might be especially difficult for families who are physically separated, but there are many ways to spread cheer and keep traditions alive. ***** 36

An Easy Way to Make Your Holiday Healthier (Family Features) Planning your holiday menu? Dried cranberries are an ingredient found in many classic holiday recipes, but what you may not know is that they are packed with added sugars. Raisins, on the other hand, are naturally sweet with 0 grams of added sugars, making them a healthy alternative that can help enhance the flavor and nutrition of your favorite holiday recipes.

Raisins fit seamlessly into many family-friendly recipes, like traditional oatmeal cookies, stuffing and sweet breads. They also make for easy salad, oatmeal and yogurt toppers, provide a naturally sweet fruit option on charcuterie boards and are a great standalone holiday snack.

Why is this important? Many health-conscious consumers are interested in wholesome foods and products with less ingredients and natural sugars, like those that occur in fruits, vegetables, grains and dairy products. Added sugars, however, refer to any sugars or caloric sweeteners that are added to foods during processing or preparation.

Consumption of excessive added sugars may be associated with health consequences, such as obesity, cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes, insulin resistance, fatty liver, dental caries and more, according to research published by the National Library of Medicine.

“Consumers are becoming more health conscious and trying to include more nutrient -dense options with less ingredients,” says Sarah Schlichter, a registered dietitian with a master’s in public health. “Yet, consumers often don’t recognize how added sugars throughout the day can quickly add up.”

The U.S. Dietary Guidelines Advisory Committee’s 2020 Scientific Report, which sets the stage for the 2020-2025 Dietary Guidelines for Americans, has proposed an overall reduction in added sugars, recommending that added sugars comprise no more than 6% of the overall diet for adults and children ages 2 and older. This is a reduction from the previous recommendation of less than 10% of the overall diet, bringing further attention to the serious health risks of excessive sugar intake.

Understanding Natural Sugars vs. Added Sugars Nutrition labels haven’t always distinguished between natural and added sugars, Schlichter said, but instead lumped them together under “total sugars.” However, the Food and Drug Administration’s Nutrition Facts label, which is currently being transitioned to, makes this easily discernible by clearly outlining how much of the total sugar content comes from add ed sugars.

“One key difference between natural and added sugars is that natural sugars usually complement other nutrients naturally found in a food or fruit, such as fiber, potassium, vitamin C or antioxidants, all of which confer several health benefits,” Schlichter said. “These complementary

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Accelerate Your Holiday Gift List with Adventure (Family Features) Nearly everyone on your gift list may need a little revving up this year. Bringing a smile or much-needed dose of adventure is an easy way to leave a lasting impression this holiday season – especially with these gift ideas.

Whether that hard-to-buy-for person on your list is already a rider or it’s on his or her to-do list, Harley-Davidson has something for nearly everyone.

Elevate Work-from-Home Wardrobes Working from home doesn’t mean you can’t dress for adventure.

Hoodies and sweatshirts can keep your loved ones looking cool and comfortable, no matter how long their next video conference call might last. With a variety of color and style options for men and women, you can find the right fit for basically everyone on your list.

Inspire the Next Generation of Riders The thrill of riding can be felt at any age, especially for kids on your list looking for a new activity. Options like the IRONe12 and IRONe16 electric bikes are tools for learning hand -eye coordination and developing riding skills while having fun. Kids will learn to push, balance and coast in non-powered mode before graduating to the powered mode, where they’ll learn to use the throttle and brake. These bikes can provide a one-of-a-kind learning experience and spark a lifetime love for riding on two wheels.

Connect with the Inner Child Give the gift of building something unique with a present like the LEGO ® Creator Expert Harley-Davidson Fat Boy® Building Sets. This set showcases the beauty of a real-life motorcycle and provides an immersive building experience that can make people of all ages feel like kids again.

Adventure in Style Few things beat a warm, durable and fashionably versatile motorcycle jacket. Whether your loved one enjoys a more rugged look to pair with outdoor adventures or is a style trend -setter who likes to stand out from the crowd, a leather motorcycle jacket is a must-have for almost any wardrobe.

Give the Gift of Riding For the person in your life you haven’t seen in a while, reconnect and give the gift of an experience that can be appreciated for years to come with the Harley-Davidson Riding Academy New Rider Course. This course will help you and any thrill-seeker in your life learn to ride with confidence on two wheels after just one weekend.

This holiday season, Harley-Davidson is giving away 500 Riding Academy passes. All you have to do is share your favorite personal Harley-Davidson motorcycle photo on Instagram or Twitter,

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Smart Holiday Gift Ideas (Family Features) Many of the season’s most popular gift ideas can generally be classified as “tech.” From smartphones and gaming systems to digital photo frames and smart home devices, tech junkies and technophobes alike can delight in the options available to help enhance daily routines and make tasks easier.

Whether you’re looking to introduce your intended recipient to the smart home concept with a foundational device like a smart thermostat or want to take home automation to the next level, there are upgrades that can work in every area of the home. From the kitchen to the garage and the bedroom to the patio, homeowners can control everything from televisions, appliances and lights to the temperature in a specific room and home security cameras with their voices or smartphones.

Consider these smart devices that can work in harmony to help make day-to-day life simpler, and find more ideas for building a comfortable, secure home at ecobee.com.

Intelligent Home Monitoring If you want to give the gift of a safe and secure home this holiday season, consider an option like ecobee Haven including the SmartCamera with voice control and the SmartSensors for doors and windows. Instead of adding more devices and tasks to ever-expanding to-do lists, the plug-andplay home monitoring platform works with your smartphone to deliver peace of mind and eliminate the need for keypads, programming and single-use gadgets. In one app, you can automatically arm and disarm your home, distinguish welcome guests from intruders and use your activity feed to see when family members arrive or depart.

Automated Home Comfort Help keep your home comfortable this winter even while you’re on the go with a gift like the ecobee SmartThermostat with voice control. Because every home heats and cools differently, the thermostat works with your local weather, schedule, occupancy and desired comfort settings to deliver a personalized energy model that automates home comfort, reduces energy consumption and saves you money. In fact, it’s Energy Star-certified and can help save up to 23% annually on heating and cooling costs, giving you the power to do your part to reduce your environmental footprint without compromising your lifestyle.

Photo courtesy of Getty Images (couple exchanging gifts)

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Popping Up Festive Holiday Fun (Family Features) During a holiday season that may not quite feel the same for many families, you can add a magic touch to at-home festivities with activities and treats that get everyone involved. Creating decorative holiday sweets allows little ones and grown-ups alike to take part in the fun, and the end result is delicious desserts for all to enjoy.

Start with a main ingredient like whole-grain, freshly popped popcorn.

At 30 calories a cup, it’s naturally low in fat, non-GMO and gluten-free for a nutritious alternative to traditional holiday indulgences. It’s a clever way to create artsy representations of the season at hand that celebrate festive flavors like peppermint, coconut, chocolate and other sweet eats.

For example, Coconut Popcorn Snowballs add fun and flavor to wintertime with a coat of sweetened coconut “snow” and candy cane handle while easy-to-construct Holiday Popcorn Snowmen are sure to be a hit with your children. Add to the holiday spirit throughout your home with wintery Jingle Balls that call for colored sugars to create a magical sparkling effect then take the creativity to the next level by encouraging kids to make their own red-nosed, sleigh-pulling team of Chocolate Popcorn Reindeer.

Discover more decorative dessert recipes at popcorn.org.

Coconut Popcorn Snowballs Yield: 8 balls (4 inches) 2 3 4 3 1 8

cups shredded or flaked sweetened coconut nonstick cooking spray quarts popped popcorn tablespoons (1/2 stick) butter or margarine cups miniature marshmallows teaspoon coconut or vanilla extract candy canes or candy cane sticks (about 3-4 inches)

Place large sheet wax or parchment paper over work surface. Spread coconut on paper.

Spray large mixing bowl lightly with nonstick cooking spray and place popcorn inside.

In medium saucepan, melt butter over low heat. Stir in marshmallows until melted and mixture is smooth. Pour over popcorn and mix well until coated.

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Pair and Pour Some Festive Holiday Cheer This Season (Family Features) While holiday traditions and celebrations will likely look different this year, the season is still special. Set the scene for a celebratory occasion by mixing festive cocktails or creating the perfect spread to complement your wines, beers, cheeses and even chocolates.

You can help make your spread delicious and affordable by relying on high-quality ingredients like those at ALDI. If you need inspiration, sommelier and lifestyle expert Sarah Tracey can help guide your palate with these festive ALDI-exclusive pairings and seasonal cocktail ideas: Light and Refreshing – With aromas of Meyer lemon and flavors of fresh green apple and white peach, the crisp Landshut Riesling has a touch of delicate sweetness while still being juicy and refreshing. For a savory-and-sweet combination, try pairing it with the Emporium Selection Plain Goat Cheese Log and Winternacht Milk Chocolate Domino Cubes.

Rich and Decadent – Indulge your senses with the aromas of butterscotch, warm baking spices and the velvety dark fruit notes of the Quarter Cut Bourbon Barrel Red Blend. This decadent red blend offers a smooth finish, similar to mulled wine without the extra work. The rich flavor pairs well with a smoked cheese like Emporium Selection Smoked Gouda as well as the Moser Roth Dark Chocolate Collection Caramel Sea Salt.

Savory with Brew – If a craft beer is more your style, consider a rich and creamy dark ale like a stout. Its robust flavors of roasted coffee beans and bittersweet cocoa combine for a sweet yet savory, earthy finish. Serve it with rich flavors like Emporium Selection Premium English Truffle Cheddar and add a touch of chocolatey sweetness with Specially Selected Cocoa Dusted Truffles.

Signature Libations – Up the ante on your holiday celebration with a special yet simple cocktail you can mix at home with confidence. The secret to making the Mistletoe Mule is the 3-2-1 method: just pour wine for three counts, ginger beer for two counts and pomegranate juice for one count.

Find more holiday recipes at aldi.us/holiday-guide.

Mistletoe Mule Servings: 2

4 1/2 3 1.5

Sugar ounces Tourner Brut Sparkling ounces Summit Ginger Beer ounces Specially Selected Premium 100% Pomegranate Juice 41

Holiday Spirits to Sip On Toast the season with festive twists on favorite drinks (Family Features) Despite a holiday season thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s practically guaranteed to feel different than any other, one constant will remain for many: enjoying the tastes of favorite foods and beverages while cozied up at home. Enhance the holiday spirit and complement the meal at your table with adult beverages that call for seasonal flavors to add to the festive vibe.

Whether you prefer your drinks with a fruity twist and plenty of mix-ins or would rather opt for a simpler combination, the options are vast. Many traditional holiday drinks require a small handful of ingredients that blend, mix or shake together to create a wintry flavor thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s worth the wait.

Regardless of personal preferences, one ingredient you can rely on when creating an at-home concoction is a mixer like those from Zevia, which are naturally sweetened with stevia and include no artificial ingredients, colors or preservatives. These non-alcoholic, zero-sugar, zerocalorie mixers for cocktails (or mocktails) are available in three different flavors: Lemon Lime with Bitters, Tonic and Ginger Beer to provide a simple yet delicious complement to the ingredients of your choosing.

For a fruit-flavored solution, this Cranberry Smash Moscow Mule offers a sweet spin on the classic cocktail. Break out your favorite copper mug and let the cranberries and cinnamon sticks add festive flair to your fusion of vodka and ginger beer.

Alternately, if the sour notes of a margarita better fit your style, go for a holiday twist with this Winter White Margarita by blending in coconut milk and garnishing with cranberries and rosemary sprigs. By rimming your glasses with granulated stevia, you can add a sweet touch to each gulp.

To find more holiday cocktail ideas, visit Zevia.com/recipes/cocktails.

Cranberry Smash Moscow Mule Servings: 1 1 3/4-1 2 1-2 4

cup cranberries, plus additional for garnish (optional), divided cup water, divided ounces vodka ounces fresh squeezed lime juice ounces Zevia Ginger Beer Mixer ice rosemary, for garnish (optional) lime slices, for garnish (optional) 42

Self-Care Strategies to Help Stay Healthy This Holiday Season (Family Features) With the COVID-19 pandemic added to the typical cold and flu season, many Americans are wondering what they can do to protect themselves and others this holiday season and how to respond if they get sick.

“As we enter this cold and flu season, it’s so important to practice self-care,” said Dr. Ian Smith, a physician, best-selling author and host of “The Doctors.” “Key preventative measures like washing your hands often and covering your nose and mouth with a tissue or the inside of your elbow when you cough or sneeze can be extremely effective in preventing the spread of germs.

With COVID-19 also in the picture, there are a lot of questions on everyone’s mind around how to stay healthy and correctly identify and treat symptoms of the cold and flu or COVID-19.”

Flu vs. COVID-19 If you get sick this season, your first question will likely be whether it’s the flu or COVID -19.

Both the flu and COVID-19 are contagious respiratory illnesses caused by viruses. The flu is caused by the influenza virus and COVID-19 is caused by a coronavirus called SARS-CoV-2.

Some of the symptoms of flu and COVID-19, like fever and cough, are similar, making it difficult to tell the difference based on symptoms alone. Testing may be required for a proper diagnosis. If you have questions or concerns about your symptoms or about COVID-19, consult your health care professional.

Cold and Flu Treatment For the common cold or flu, there are a variety of products available that contain several active ingredients commonly used to treat symptoms of respiratory viral infections. For example, Mucinex DM contains dextromethorphan, which helps to control cough and guaifenesin to help thin and loosen mucus and lasts 12 hours when used as directed. You can identify the right formula to provide relief based on symptoms you are experiencing by using the online tool at Mucinex.com, where you can also find more information regarding self-care remedies.

Holiday Gatherings If you’re hosting or attending a gathering this holiday season, check local and state health sites for restrictions on gathering and guidance beforehand. Take appropriate measures to protect yourself and others, and remind fellow guests to take similar precautions. Don’t attend or host an event if you’re sick or have had close contact with someone who is sick. If feasible, keep the event outdoors or ensure the space is well ventilated with open windows. Limit the number of attendees so safe social distancing can be maintained between people not from the same household, and wear masks when less than 6 feet apart or indoors. Frequent hand washing and limiting food preparers or servers can also help reduce the spread of germs.

Photo courtesy of Getty Images 43

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Get Ready to Gift Holiday presents for every person (and pet) on your holiday list (Family Features) With a variety of personalities and interests likely on your holiday shopping list, finding the perfect gift for everyone can be a daunting task. Rather than spending countless hours browsing online or walking up and down store aisles, consider this array of gift ideas that can put you on the path toward successful shopping during a holiday season sure to be unlike any before it.

With more people spending time at home, gifts that can keep the house clean, showcase team spirit or provide a simple way to pass the time can be hits. Of course, you can also ship a tasty meal directly to a loved one’s door or give that four-legged family member an extra special treat.

Find more holiday gift-giving inspiration at eLivingtoday.com.

A Tasteful Holiday Gift Give the gift of flavor this holiday season with a full spread of Omaha Steaks favorites in one collection. Loaded with doubletrimmed, famously fork-tender Butcher’s Cut filet mignons, tender and crispy bacon-wrapped filet mignons, flavor-packed burgers, classic boneless pork chops, juicy boneless chicken breasts, gourmet jumbo franks, all-beef meatballs, a savory side and dessert, it’s a memorable and delicious gift everyone can enjoy. Find more flavorful holiday gift ideas at omahasteaks.com.

The No. 1 Gift Pick Give the sports fan in your life an authentic piece of collectible memorabilia to showcase his or her team spirit, such as this Patrick Mahomes Super Bowl LIV MVP Dynasty Banner from Winning Streak Sports – The #1 Premium Licensed Product in Sports. Created to commemorate some of the greatest teams, schools and players, these limited-edition high stich count banners, which are available framed or unframed, are made from 100% wool blend felt with ironsafe backing and include a hanging cord for easy display. Find more upscale, gift-worthy sports memorabilia at winningstreaksports.com.

A Riveting Read Provide the bookworm in your life with a true thriller like “Pilate’s Cross” by J. Alexander Greenwood, a murder mystery #15416 Source: Fa mily Fea tures

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Stocking Stuffers for Everyone on Your List (Family Features) Before you can hang the stockings by the chimney with care, you have to figure out how you’re going to stuff them.

Nearly every family has a different approach, but practical presents that match the personality of the recipient is almost always a winning strategy for filling out your loved ones’ stockings.

For example, Zebra Pen’s wide variety of writing instruments offers useful, stylish and creative stocking stuffers for anyone on your shopping list.

Consider these thoughtful and fun ideas for filling stockings and get a head start on your holiday shopping at zebrapen.com.

For Little Learners Easy for smaller hands to hold and control with triangular barrels, Zensations Mechanical Colored Pencils provide smooth, rich, vibrant color. Available in 24 blend-able, non-toxic colors, the durable lead is built for beginning writers and never needs sharpening. Ideal for coloring books, journals, notebooks and other paper surfaces, they’re made to last as long as your youngsters’ love of coloring and doodling.

For Bullet Journal Hobbyists Whether your recipient is organized or could use some help in that department, an option like the Mildliner Double Ended Highlighter and Creative Tool can help organize bullet journals, planners or notes in a unique way. With 25 pastel shades, the Japanese-inspired highlighter’s broad and fine point tips aid in hand lettering and allow for multiple line thicknesses.

For Fashionistas Ideal for those looking for a fashionable pen that makes a statement, the Sarasa Grand Retractable Gel Pen features a sophisticated barrel that can be coordinated to match other office essentials. Available in six barrel colors – navy, gold, rose gold, black, white and turquoise – with Rapid Dry Ink Technology, this refillable writing product doesn’t smear or smudge, leaving hands and paper free from blemishes.

For Teens Perfect for journaling, note-taking and studying, the Sarasa Clip Retractable Gel Pen can help the students on your list stay organized.

Available in a wide variety of colors and finishes, including milky and shimmering metallic options, the non-smearing, gel ink is water-resistant #15411 Source: Zebra Pen

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Skip the Holi-daze How to spend added time making memories (Family Features) Making time to reconnect with loved ones is a wish topping many lists this holiday season, so set aside the chaos and commit to doing more this year. More of what you truly enjoy, that is.

These time-saving holiday hacks from the Chinet ® brand can help curb your time commitments so you can focus on personal connections and celebrating good cheer with loved ones instead.

Spread out prep time. If you’re busy putting the final touches on a meal as guests begin to arrive, you’ll miss out on the excitement as the party begins. Rely on tricks to spread your meal preparation out over the days before your event, such as making sides and casseroles ahead of time and freezing them so all you have to do on the big day is pop them in the oven.

Mashed potatoes are a notorious last-minute time suck, so make them early in the day and keep them warm in a slow cooker. Just add a bit of cream and stir periodically to keep them soft and fluffy.

Simplify cleanup. After enjoying a meal surrounded by loved ones, there’s no reason to halt the conversation while you slip away to bring order back to the kitchen. Cover dishes and put perishables away then return to your guests for the quality time you d eserve. If you use disposable tableware, there’s even less to worry about later. For example, Chinet Classic White products make cleanup easy so you can spend more time with friends, family and guests. The plates and bowls are strong enough to serve the heaviest, messiest meals with style then you can simply toss them when you’re done.

Shop local for shortcuts. Local businesses are feeling the crunch of 2020 in a big way, but you can give them a boost while doing yourself a time-saving favor. Pick up a pie or specialty dessert from a local bakery. Inquire about family-size sides from the family restaurants in your community. Also remember to check with school-age children you know, as many seasonal fundraisers offer pre-made holiday desserts and other treats you can share with guests with minimal effort.

Get out of the house. If you’ve spent too much time this year looking at your own surroundings, getting away from it all may lift your spirits while saving the hours you’d pour into getting your home ready for entertaining. Community groups with their own facilities often have space available to rent, and these spaces are typically large enough to maintain social distancing requirements and are subject to rigorous cleaning protocols. Alternately, if you’re keeping the guest list small, renting a vacation home offers the opportunity to turn the seasonal celebration into a short road trip for added memories and joy. With some simple decorations, you can create a fun atmosphere for your holiday event and skip the headaches of hosting at home.

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Sensible Solutions for Holiday Gifting (Family Features) Practically every year there’s at least one person on your holiday gift list that seems to have it all. One way to think outside the box is to sift through wants and needs to find something that can truly be put to use on an almost daily basis.

For example, tools, binoculars, vacuum cleaners, knife sharpeners and security solutions can serve as practical gifts that give your recipient a functional piece of equipment for daily life.

These types of presents show your thoughtfulness and can provide your loved one a frequent reminder of the relationship you share each time the gift is used.

Find additional holiday gift ideas for everyone on your list at eLivingtoday.com.

An Eye-Catching Gift If you’ve got someone on your holiday gift list that enjoys pursuits such as sports, concerts, nature viewing or stargazing, help bring the action closer with a gift like the Bushnell Powerview 2 binocular. An evolution from the popular line, the versatile, general-use binoculars deliver clear views in multiple sizes and magnifications. The binoculars feature an aircraft grade, aluminum alloy chassis built for durability, and highquality, soft-touch black rubber armor and brushed metal texture finishes provide eye-catching exterior design, easy handling and a confident grip. For more information, visit bushnell.com.

A Cut Above the Rest This holiday season, get the chef or outdoorsman in your life a gift that keeps on giving, such as the Wicked Edge Go knife sharpener.

Made from high-quality materials, it’s easy to use for both new and experienced knife sharpeners. It offers guided angle control, can sharpen a variety of knife types and makes cutting more efficient while increasing the longevity of your knives. Find more at wickededgeusa.com.

Cleanliness On the Go Give the gift of cleaner living spaces anywhere and everywhere with the ultra-portable Raycop GO vacuum, which uses UVC light technology to eliminate 99.9% of bacteria and viruses along with dust mites. It’s less than 2 pounds, easy to assemble and stores in four #15403 Source: Fa mily Fea tures

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Delectable Desserts for Holiday Celebrations (Family Features) With so many traditions and ways to celebrate the holiday season, the options are nearly endless for families looking to spend special moments together. One of the tastiest and most enjoyable activities you can engage in with family and friends is to team up and create sweet eats in the kitchen.

Whether you’re a chocolate lover or prefer traditional seasonal flavors like peppermint and gingerbread, these tasty, dairy-inspired treats from Milk Means More provide heartwarming ways to tingle your taste buds while bringing everyone together.

Cranberry Orange Bread Pudding provides a sweet, fruity, hearty dessert while Peppermint Cheesecake Brownies combine chocolatey goodness with creamy cheesecake and peppermint. Or, for a classic holiday combination, you can turn to Gingerbread Cupcakes with Whipped Vanilla Buttercream.

Find more ways to celebrate the season with sweet eats at milkmeansmore.org.

Peppermint Cheesecake Brownies Recipe courtesy of Sarah Bates of “The Chef Next Door” on behalf of Milk Means More Prep time: 10 minutes Cook time: 30 minutes Servings: 16 Nonstick cooking spray Cheesecake Batter: 8 ounces low-fat cream cheese, at room temperature 1/3 cup granulated sugar 1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract 2 eggs 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour Brownie Batter: 1 cup all-purpose flour 1/2 cup cocoa powder 1/2 teaspoon salt 1 cup granulated sugar 1/4 cup vegetable oil 1/4 cup milk 2 eggs

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Great eggspectations: Surprising holiday gift ideas (BPT) - At a loss for new and unique holiday gifts for your loved ones this year? Have you ever considered eggs?

In a lighthearted look at gift giving, the American Egg Board offers two new humorous 15second films that turn classic gift ads on their heads. One is a spoof on the classic jewelry store "Proposal," while the other pokes fun at the auto ad favorite driveway reveal of the "Big Bow." "Food is ever important during the holidays, and we expect it to be much more so this year as families look for ways to celebrate under challenging circumstances," said Emily Metz, president and CEO of the American Egg Board. "We wanted to give people a laugh because we could all use a little extra cheer this year. We hope these lighthearted digital shorts remind us all that something homemade is sometimes the best gift and a great way to make meaningful new memories, celebrate traditions and bond over incredible food."

It's a great idea to consider creating gifts for your loved ones that nourish the spirit and are made with love - that can mean so much more than a store-bought gift.

And eggs are so versatile and affordable that a dozen eggs makes a perfect "present" both for the holidays at home and for food gifting to extended family, friends and neighbors.

Gift cards for eggceptional eateries You can also help friends and loved ones at the same time as you support your favorite local breakfast spots and restaurants by giving gift cards for takeout, curbside pick-up or delivery meals especially for that most eggcellent meal: brunch.

Unsure what locales to choose? Check out Google Maps for suggestions of nearby restaurants offering breakfast or brunch gift card giving. Gift cards make giving the gift of eggs easy, and they offer a great alternative for those who need a break from cooking during the hectic holiday season.

Eggscentric baked goods Fortunately, eggs are also a vital component to help you conjure up all sorts of giftable holiday treats, from the trendiest new recipes to traditional family favorites. Why not make extras to arrange in a pretty box or jar to give to others, including the recipe on a hand-decorated card so they can make more once the treats have been devoured?

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Worried about baked goods not surviving shipping to friends and family far away? Mail or email a photo of the finished goods included with a copy of the recipe - plus a grocery store gift certificate to buy the crucial ingredients - including, of course, The Incredible Egg! Here's just one eggceptional treat you can make that's deliciously giftable: Nutcracker's Salted Caramel Pecan Shortbread Bars 10 minutes prep time; 60 minutes total time Ingredients 3/4 cup and 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened and divided 1/2 cup sugar 1 and 3/4 cup all-purpose flour 18 caramel candies (individually wrapped) 1/4 cup light brown sugar 2 large eggs 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract 1/8 teaspoon salt 1 cup chopped pecans Pinch kosher or sea salt (to serve) Directions 1. Preheat oven to 350F. Prepare a 9" x 13" baking dish with aluminum foil, leaving an overhang on the edges for easy removal.

2. In medium bowl, use electric hand mixer to cream together 3/4 cup butter and sugar. Add flour and mix until combined.

3. Firmly press mixture into prepared baking dish. Bake 15-20 minutes, until edges are just starting to brown.

4. Meanwhile, in small saucepan over low heat, add caramels, milk and 2 tablespoons butter. Cook until caramels are smooth and melted. Allow to cool slightly.

5. In medium bowl, combine brown sugar, eggs, vanilla and salt. Gradually mix in the caramel mixture, then stir in pecans. Pour filling over warm crust.

6. Bake 25-30 minutes, until filling is set. Allow to cool completely, then refrigerate 1-4 hours.

7. Sprinkle with flaky salt and serve. Refrigerate leftovers up to 3 days. Makes 20 servings.

Remember, the surest way to anyone's heart is through their stomach, and a dozen eggs will get you there! For more eggciting recipes and gift ideas, visit IncredibleEgg.org/Recipes.

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Customizable bites: 4 tips for a brilliant holiday cheeseboard

(BPT) - As the weather turns colder and the season changes, your thoughts may be turning to the holidays and how you can make them extra special in this unique year.

While many of us will be staying closer to home this holiday season, we'll still want to celebrate the season in style and create happy new memories with loved ones. Although a bit different, each moment this holiday season can still be savored and enjoyed with the delicious food you bring to your table.

One choice sure to be appreciated by even the greatest gourmands is a cheeseboard curated with a selection of full-flavored artisanal cheeses. In fact, specialty cheeses have become so sought-after that the U.S. market is expected to grow by 2.5% in each of the next several years, reaching $18 billion by 2023.

Many cheese lovers these days especially value the aged cheddars that are given the opportunity to evolve in quality and taste over time - just like fine wines. For example, over 110-year-old Oregonbased cheesemaker Tillamook, a farmer-owned co-op, has crafted a unique, aged Maker's Reserve Extra Sharp White Cheddar line that features a line of vintages between 3 and 10 years old, each with their own distinct tasting notes and characteristics.

"No one else in the industry looks at cheddar this way," observes Rebekah Baker, an American Cheese Society Certified Cheese Professional who is Tillamook's western regional specialty sales manager. "Cheese is a living thing that changes dramatically over time. By releasing vintages rather than static ages, we allow consumers to engage with the cheese across a range of ages and experience how it evolves over time."

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However you plan to celebrate, you may wish to consider these suggestions for pulling together a delicious, impressive and beautiful holiday cheeseboard this season.

Prepare for the perfect presentation Your awe-inspiring offering starts with a cheeseboard large enough to hold all the garnishes and other bounty you wish to add, while allowing enough room for creative design. Whether they're made of wood, bamboo, steel, marble, glass, silicone or other materials, today's boards are often art objects in and of themselves.

Choose cheeses with unique flavor profiles Instead of grabbing something generic, look around for specialty selections that offer different and unexpected flavors and textures as well as complex pairings. For example, Tillamook's 2010 vintage is crumbly, packed with crystals, and smooth as velvet, with a bold, buttery, caramelly sweetness.

The 2015 vintage combines a dry, crumbly texture with sweet top notes, bitter, citrusy undertones and a nutty finish. And the 2017 vintage is fresh, creamy and bright. Though complex in flavor, all Tillamook cheeses are made from only the highest quality milk and aged over time.

Suggest tasty pairings A well-crafted cheese plate calls for other offerings that will complement your cheese selections in terms of taste, color and texture. For example, Tillamook's bold and buttery 2010 Makers' Reserve can be especially delicious with strawberries, aged balsamic vinegar, oysters or crusty bread dipped in olive oil. The nuttiness of the 2015 vintage is a perfect offset to Marcona almonds, cured meats, smoked salmon, blood oranges and/or smoked honey. And the fruity, sweet-nosed 2017 vintage is scrumptious with citrus-marinated olives, almonds, honey, rosemary or oranges.

Have fun with design Evaluate your selections, then assemble your board with an eye toward color, texture and taste. For example, you may wish to add your items by color, following the rainbow spectrum and moving from light shades to dark shades. Or you may want to create a flavor map, placing sweeter dessertoriented items at one end and salty or savory items on the other. If you're extra creative, you could suggest flavor pairings by dividing the board into visual thirds and placing complementary food choices close together. Remember to slice some of your cheeses and other foods before serving so your guests feel welcome to help themselves.

With a little planning, you can pull together a beautiful and tasty holiday cheeseboard that will impress anyone. Ensure your cheese selections are the featured items on any cheeseboard layout and visit Tillamook.com to learn how and where you can find Tillamook Maker's Reserve this holiday season.

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Cooking fires increase over the holidays: How to keep your kitchen safe

(BPT) - According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), cooking is the leading cause of home fires and home fire injuries - and the second leading cause of home fire deaths. Cooking fires increase during the holiday season. The type of cooking appliances used makes a difference; people using electric ranges showed a higher risk of cooking fires (and associated losses) than those using gas ranges.

The good news? Technology mixed with safe cooking behavior can make a big difference. Here are some tips for protecting people and property from stove fires.

6 ways to guard against kitchen fires 1. Install the right technology. Anyone cooking on an electric coil stove top can make it significantly safer by replacing the coils with SmartBurner. Unlike traditional electric stove coils that can get dangerously hot very quickly, SmartBurners are designed with temperature limiting control technology that helps keep them from reaching the high temperatures that can cause most cooking oils to autoignite. By controlling the temperature, the burner lets you cook your food as usual, but with peace of mind.

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2. Check the area for fire dangers. Before turning on your stovetop, move anything that can catch fire away from the heat source. This includes mail, towels, napkins, paper plates, pizza boxes or even cleaning supplies. Wipe up spilled grease so it won't catch fire.

3. Dress for success. Loose sleeves and clothing can catch fire. Instead, wear clothes with short sleeves, or roll them up. In the NFPA study, clothes catching fire was a key factor in 14% of deaths caused by home cooking fires.

4. Be ready to act fast. When you cook, keep a cookie sheet or large pan lid nearby. If there is a pan fire, you can quickly cover the pan and put out the flames. Then turn off the heat and leave the pan covered until it cools. Never try to move a burning pan, as that can spread the flames.

5. Create a kid-free zone. Aim to keep children at least three feet away from any area where you're cooking. And never hold a child while you're cooking or moving around hot liquids or foods. Be especially careful during the holidays. The NFPA reports that the peak days for home cooking fires last year were Thanksgiving and Christmas - times when family tends to gather around the kitchen.

6. Don't leave. This one sounds obvious, but unattended cooking was cited as the leading cause of cooking fires and injuries in the NFPA study. Stay in the kitchen and keep an eye on what you fry, broil and grill. If you need to leave the kitchen, turn the stove top OFF. When you are roasting, simmering or baking food, stay at home and check it often. Set a timer to remind you to check the food while it is cooking.

By following these tips for fire safety in the kitchen, you can help save people and property from the leading cause of home fires - cooking. For more information, visit PioneeringTech.com.

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Holiday hints: Gift wrapping and shipping tips from the experts

(BPT) - It's that time of year again - when gift-givers everywhere struggle to get presents wrapped and shipped ahead of the holidays. If you are one of the many who need tips, inspiration or a little nudge, why not turn to the experts for great ideas this year?

Wrap artistically Up your gift-wrapping game to help make your presents stand out among the heap of boxes under the tree. Alton DuLaney, Scotch Brand's Most Gifted Wrapper Contest winner and the World's Most Famous Gift Wrap Artist, offers his top tips for wrapping like a pro and making the outside of the present as special as the inside. * Gather all your supplies. Start by gathering all your supplies and laying them out on a flat spacious area to do all your wrapping. The quality of the finished product depends on the quality of the products used. I always opt for the Scotch Gift-Wrap Tape as my go-to holiday tape. It has a satin finish that disappears flawlessly on most wrapping papers for a smooth, finished look. * Be resourceful. Explore unconventional paper like leftover wallpaper from your latest home improvement or DIY project. Shop your garden for embellishments like sprigs of rosemary or even pinecones from your backyard. It is the simplest touches that go a long way!

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* Put the 'present' in 'presentation.' Tease a little excitement for what is inside and really play up the presentation. Gifting a men's shirt? Add a tie in lieu of a ribbon. Giving jewelry? Bedazzle the wrapping paper with rhinestones. * Get crafty. Decorate craft paper or paper grocery bags turned inside out with stamps, paint, drawings or stickers to make your own one-of-a-kind gift wrap. This is a great creative project for kids!

Ship efficiently This holiday season, you may be relying on shipping to get your gifts to loved ones far and wide. Now more than ever, it's important to streamline your packaging and shipping efforts.

Rachel Rosenthal, founder of the professional organizing firm Rachel and Company, draws from her 13 years of experience helping more than 3,000 clients to offer tips for staying on top of your gifting process this year: * Streamline with a shipping station. Finding a home for all your supplies is key to feeling organized ahead of the holiday madness. I recently transformed a former crafting cart into an at-home shipping station. The first supply I stocked my cart with is the Scotch Flex & Seal Shipping Roll. It's an all-inone shipping solution that saves up to 50% on time, supplies and space compared to boxes. All you need is the roll and a pair of scissors so your cart won't get cluttered. For a great shipping station cart, look for one that has a flat surface on top where you can package up your items. * Skip the line. Let's be real, no one likes spending more time at the post office than they have to.

Package and label your items ahead of time so you can simply drop and go. After purchasing all my holiday gifts, I designate time to printing all of my shipping labels and sticking them to my packages.

That way, I can simply drop them off and be on my way! * Don't delay. Don't let packages pile up around the house. We all know that one relative who sends gifts after the holidays. Designate an area near your front door so you'll remember to ship them out when you leave the house to run other errands - and make sure to add final shipping dates to your digital calendar so you'll remember your deadlines!

With a little creativity, planning and organization this year - along with the right tools for the job - you can make gift-giving easier and more beautiful than ever.

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3 tips to make this the cheesiest holiday ever

(BPT) - Struggling to shop for that picky colleague, or your friend who's already bought themselves everything? Looking for a stress-free and undeniably delicious snack for your low-key holiday gettogether? Or do you simply want to kick grandma's recipes up a notch this year? The solution is simple: cheese. Not just any cheese; nice cheese.

Cheese makes everything - even 2020 - better. That's why Josh Gentine, a third-generation member of the Sargento Foods legacy, founded The Big Cheese. Well, that, and he stumbled upon 850,000 pounds of extra-sharp, 12- to 15-year aged cheddar in Wisconsin. According to Gentine, cheese ages like fine wine, getting sharper and more complex with each passing year. He maintains his cheddar is "the sharpest you've ever tasted," adding jokingly, "It's so sharp it has a British accent."

With that in mind, here are three tips for making this holiday the cheesiest one ever.

Tip 1: Unwrap flavor Cheese is the perfect gift. "Cheese is our common denominator," says Gentine. "There are only two types of people in this world: people who already love cheese and people who need to try The Big Cheese."

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With The Big Cheese, blocks are sent directly to your doorstep, so you can cross everyone off your gift list without leaving the sofa. A 2.5-pound block to your foodie aunt, a 5-pounder to the family of four. A 40-pound behemoth sent directly to the door of your friend who's always entertaining (or will be, once that's safe again). It's an unexpected gift that you can be confident will be enjoyed and not re-gifted or left to gather dust in a hallway closet.

Tip 2: Charcuterie champion Charcuterie boards have blossomed into their own popular subgenre of #foodporn on Instagram. It's becoming a full-fledged kink, with people creating over-the-top, picture-perfect trays packed with premium deli and dairy. The art of the board is all about balance, in both color and flavor. Put your folded, reddish cuts of cured meat opposite paler cheeses, next to green olives or grape garnish. Mix and match an assortment of hard and soft cheeses with tapenades and spreads. Temper the salty meats with sweeter fruits like pears or spiced nuts. With charcuterie, your guest becomes the chef, piling up a plate the way they like it, so you've got to give them options.

Pro Pointer: Serve your extra-sharp, aged cheddar (and other cheeses) at room temperature. When cheese is too cold, its taste is muted. By allowing cheese to come to room temperature, you're allowing its flavors to come out and join the party.

Tip 3: Sharpen a family fave This holiday isn't like any other, so why not put a twist on old traditions? Family recipes that stay the same year after year can become tired or stale, so add a little zing with a cheesy kick. The secret is the sharp cheddar. Adding shreds of the zesty treat brings more complexity to dishes. It's the perfect way to amp up mac and cheese, bring extra creaminess to grits or polenta, elevate a grilled cheese sandwich or breathe second life into leftovers like turkey melts.

Try this recipe for a great new take on a family classic: The Big Cheese Mac & Cheese From Jessica Slomberg @NYCFoodComa

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Tips to help you shop safely amid COVID-19 this holiday season

(BPT) - It's a shopping season like no other. Fifty-seven percent of shoppers surveyed report that they are likely to change their gifting habits this holiday season because of COVID-19[1]. As a result, shoppers are relying on a long-time favorite - gift cards - as a gift that can lessen the headache of 2020. This year's most requested gift allows consumers to shop online or load gifts into mobile wallets, making shopping simpler and safer.

"Gift cards have been the most requested gift for fourteen years in a row[2]," said Megan Flanagan, executive director of the of the non-profit Retail Gift Card Association. "And they couldn't be easier to buy. Most people are still visiting grocery stores during the pandemic, where you can find gift card malls that offer plenty of options for everyone on your list. Some grocers even offer curbside pickup of gift cards."

Most gift cards also come in digital form, called eGifts, which can be completely contactless: bought, given and spent digitally. However, physical gift cards can be spent online, too.

"So, whether you give gift cards or eGifts, your recipients don't have to worry about using them in person or shopping in crowded malls if they don't want to," continued Flanagan. "And, when your recipients get to buy what they want, where they want, they never have to worry about returning a gift they can't use."

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As gift cards continue to grow in popularity, and the social landscape is changing due to the pandemic, gift cards are increasingly being used to connect people through shared experiences, virtually.

"With people spending more time at home, we've seen food delivery, streaming and gaming, and home improvement gift cards increasing in popularity," said Shelley Hunter, the Gift Card Girlfriend at GiftCards.com and gifting expert. "Shoppers are looking for creative ways to celebrate, like choosing gift cards that create an at-home experience. For instance: a Grubhub gift card paired with a new jigsaw puzzle, or gaming and streaming gift cards given with a cozy blanket."

Another gift card trend this year is multi-store cards featuring an assortment of retailers, restaurants and entertainment options on a single card, giving recipients more freedom to choose where to spend their gift. Some popular options include: * Happy Cards®: a universally giftable line of multi-store cards coupled together for various themes, including two great holiday options, called Happy® Holidays and Holiday Favorites. * Giving Good™: 88% of the US shoppers surveyed plan to make charitable donations this year[1], and Giving Good cards are the perfect way to give gifts that people love and also support the community. Giving Good cards benefit some of America's top charitable causes. * Choice Cards: bring together higher-end retailers and restaurants all on one card. * Spafinder: turns someone's every day into a spa day. A Spafinder gift card unlocks services and products to pamper yourself from thousands of participating spas, salons and studios.

You can check out an array of holiday gift card options at the gift card mall in your local grocer or retailer, or online at GiftCards.com.

[1] The "2020 BrandedPay™ Holiday Shopping Preview" report is based on the findings in the Holiday Gifting 2020 study, an internet-based survey conducted by Leger on behalf of Blackhawk Network between August 24-31, 2020. The sample size included 1,500 respondents. Gift card category findings are based on 2018-2020 sales data from Blackhawk Network from over 50,000 merchant locations across the U.S. [2] "Holiday 2020 By The Numbers," National Retail Federation, October 2020.

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End 2020 on a high note with these holiday hacks!

(BPT) - While 2020 has been a rollercoaster of emotions for all of us, this year's holiday season doesn't have to be. These hacks will help you navigate the new norm this holiday shopping season and make sure 2020 ends on a stress-free note.

Channel your inner Clark Griswold.

Go all out with holiday decorating and make your home extra festive this year since everyone will be spending more time at home this holiday season. Missing family members who can't visit this year?

Incorporate their photos into your holiday decorations to invoke family memories and to feel closer during this time when so many of us are spending the holidays apart. Cheery decor can improve your entire vibe - so whether you deck the halls with extra string lights in every room or spice up your bar cart with festive beverages, bring the holiday festivities into your own space and embrace the athome life.

Shop smarter and protect your packages with in-garage delivery.

If you're planning to do most of your holiday shopping online this year like the majority of Americans, it's even more important than ever to be prepared with a secure and contactless delivery solution like Key by Amazon In-Garage Delivery. Amazon recently expanded the service to millions more Prime members in more than 4,000 cities across the United States. Ensure your gifts, decorations and everything else you need to have a safe and happy celebration are protected against damage, theft and weather. All you need is a myQ smart garage door opener linked to Key by Amazon app to have 62

packages delivered directly into your garage. myQ technology can be added to all leading brands of garage door openers in minutes via a myQ Smart Garage Hub, which practically pays for itself thanks to a special $30 Amazon credit after your first in-garage delivery with promo code KEY30 (Terms and conditions apply. Find them at amazon.com/keypromo to learn more.).

Start a new family tradition.

With the holidays looking a bit different this year, our annual traditions may also have a new feel.

Since life is slowed down and everyone is snuggled in at home, consider making the most of the situation and putting some extra thought into starting a new family tradition. Try ordering matching holiday jammies, experimenting with new delicious family recipes (perhaps spark some friendly competition with a bakeoff over Zoom?) or maybe even try building an ice-skating rink on your lawn.

2020 has been an unforgettable year, so add some happy memories to the mix.

If you're entertaining and need extra space to spread out, consider your garage.

Your garage is an extension of your home and can be a great place this year to remain socially distant. If you're entertaining and need extra space to spread out, why not utilize your garage? The indoor/outdoor space lets in fresh air and creates additional room for hosting loved ones over the holiday season. Add space heaters, twinkling lights, some festive music and pour the hot cocoa!

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Savory Cheese Balls A Savory Way to Start Holiday Celebrations

(Culinary.net) It’s the holiday season and your family can feel the cheer as loved ones fill their appetizer plates and excitement fills the air as gifts are being placed beneath the tree.

Someone asks, munching away near the table, “Wow, how did you make this?” In your mind, you think, “It was too easy.”

These Savory Cheese Balls are not only simple to make but perfect for any holiday get-together or celebration. They’re fun to create and even more enjoyable to dive in to once finished. Texture and color are the name of the game with this recipe. The result is a beautiful array of red, gold and green, all on one plate.

Start by rolling cream cheese into balls and mixing up three bowls with powerful flavors to create the three different colors. The “green” bowl gets parsley, thyme, rosemary and, of course, some garlic, just for an extra kick of seasoning. The “gold” ball calls for caraway seeds, poppy seeds and garlic.

Finally, the “red” ball includes cranberries and pecans.

Simply roll each cream cheese ball around gently until it’s coated. It doesn’t get any simpler than that.

Display the array of cheese balls on a festive plate for something equally cheery and heavenly. Serve the plate with crackers, fruit or vegetables for complementary dipping options.

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Find more recipes and holiday fun this season at Culinary.net.

Savory Cheese Balls Servings: 6-12 2 2 1 2 1/4 2 1 1/4 2

packages (8 ounces each) cream cheese tablespoons caraway seeds teaspoon poppy seeds cloves garlic, minced, divided cup parsley, chopped teaspoons thyme leaves, chopped teaspoon rosemary, chopped cup dried cranberries, chopped tablespoons pecans, chopped crackers (optional) fruit (optional) vegetables (optional)

Cut each cream cheese block into three squares. Roll each square into ball.

In small bowl, combine caraway seeds, poppy seeds and half the garlic.

In second small bowl, combine parsley, thyme, rosemary and remaining garlic.

In third small bowl, combine cranberries and pecans.

Roll two cheese balls in seed mixture, two in herb mixture and two in cranberry mixture.

Cut each ball in half and serve with crackers, fruit or vegetables, if desired.

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A Special Sweet-Tart Treat for the Holidays

(Family Features) All kinds of holiday celebrations, whether with immediate family or joining loved ones virtually, can be made better with sweet treats that add special meaning to the occasion.

Including fresh fruit in your treat can make it an even tastier take on seasonal tradition.

For example, fresh California grapes are available into January and are perfect for the holiday season. Enjoy them as a fresh, healthy snack or side dish, or as an ingredient to add taste and visual appeal to recipes to make the season feel special.

This Grape Frangipane Tart offers a simple solution when your sweet tooth calls for a dish to share with family. Everyday ingredients likely already in your pantry combine with fresh grapes for a sweettart twist worthy of the holidays.

Find more holiday dessert recipes at grapesfromcalifornia.com.

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Grape Frangipane Tart Servings: 10 1 tart pastry, single crust (10 inches) 3 1/2 cups red or black seedless California grapes 2 ounces almond paste 1 large egg 1/4 cup sugar 1/4 cup butter 2 tablespoons flour 1 pinch salt confectionersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; sugar Preheat oven to 375 F. Line 10-inch tart pan with pastry. Arrange grapes snugly in decorative rings in pastry. With electric mixer, combine almond paste, egg, sugar, butter, flour and salt until smooth to create frangipane.

Carefully spread over arranged grapes and bake 35 minutes until tart is golden brown and cooked through.

When tart is cool, remove from pan and dust with confectionersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; sugar.

Nutritional information per serving: 151 calories; 2 g protein; 8 g fat; 46% calories from fat; 19 g carbohydrates; 34 mg cholesterol; .8 g fiber; 86 mg sodium.

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(Family Features) Holiday celebrations call for recipes of all kinds, but perhaps the most popular area at many parties is the dessert table. Add flavor to your get-togethers with a festive treat like these Peppermint Shortbread Cookies, which call for the seasonal taste of peppermint and the versatility of dairy for a sweet bite after a holiday meal.

Find more recipes for the holidays at milkmeansmore.org.

Peppermint Shortbread Cookies Recipe courtesy of Rachel Gurk of “Rachel Cooks” on behalf of Milk Means More Prep time: 15 minutes, plus 30 minutes freeze time Cook time: 15 minutes Servings: 40 2-2 1/2 sticks unsalted butter, softened 3/4 cup powdered sugar 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract 1 teaspoon salt 2 1/3 cups all-purpose flour 3/4 cup peppermint crunch baking chips In stand mixer fitted with paddle attachment, cream butter, powdered sugar, vanilla and salt until smooth. Gradually add flour and mix on low until combined. Add baking chips and continue mixing on low until fully combined.

On wax paper or parchment paper, form dough into 12-14-inch log and freeze at least 30 minutes, or until firm.

Heat oven to 350° F. Cut shortbread dough into 1/4-inch slices; bake 13-15 minutes on parchment-lined baking sheets.

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When it's cold outside, start up the fireplace, get your favorite slippers on, wrap up in a warm blanket and snuggle on the couch with this delicious White Hot Chocolate. Find more recipes at Culinary.net.

White Hot Chocolate • 3 cups Half & Half • 2/3 cup white chocolate baking pieces • 1 3 inch cinnamon stick • 1/8 tsp ground nutmeg • 1 tsp vanilla • 1/4 tsp almond extract • Ground Cinnamon (optional) • Whipped Cream (optional) 1.

In a medium saucepan combine 1/4 of the half & half, white chocolate baking pieces, cinnamon stick and nutmeg. Stir over low to medium heat until white chocolate is melted.

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Add remaining half & half. Stir and cook until heated through. Remove from heat. Discard cinnamon stick.

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Add in vanilla and almond extract. Stir until mixed through.

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Pour into your favorite mug(s). Top with whipped cream and sprinkle with ground cinnamon.

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Recipe adapted from Better Homes and Gardens Cookbook.

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Try this healthy spin on a classic cookie treat. For more recipes go to culinary.net.

Gingerbread Cookie Shake • • • • • • •

1 1/2 cups vanilla protein shake 1 tbsp. molasses 1/2 tsp. ground cinnamon 1/4 tsp. ground ginger 1 f rozen banana 1 tbsp. chia seeds 1/2 cup ice

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Savor Holiday Fun with Seasonal Sweets

(Family Features) Festive fun and baking holiday treats go hand-in-hand, and these Christmas Tree Cheesecake Brownies provide a perfect way to enjoy a holiday tradition in the kitchen with loved ones.

Decorate your own version using green and white frosting, sprinkles of your choice and candy canes for “stumps” in the tree-shaped sweets.

Visit milkmeansmore.org to find more holiday inspiration.

Christmas Tree Cheesecake Brownies Recipe courtesy of Jenn Fillenworth of “Jenny with the Good Eats” on behalf of Milk Means More Prep time: 10 minutes Cook time: 30 minutes Servings: 16 Nonstick cooking spray Cheesecake Batter: 8 ounces low-fat cream cheese, at room temperature 71

1/3 2 1

cup granulated sugar eggs tablespoon all-purpose flour

Brownie Batter: 1 cup all-purpose flour 1/2 cup cocoa powder 1/2 teaspoon salt 1 cup granulated sugar 1/4 cup vegetable oil 1/4 cup milk 2 eggs 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract Decorations: green frosting white frosting assorted sprinkles star-shaped sprinkles candy canes Preheat oven to 350 F. Coat 8-inch square baking pan with nonstick cooking spray; set aside.

To make cheesecake batter: Place cream cheese in bowl of stand mixer. Beat at medium speed until smooth and creamy. Add sugar and beat well. Add eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Add flour and beat mixture until blended.

To make brownie batter: In medium bowl, whisk flour, cocoa powder and salt until combined. In separate bowl, whisk sugar, oil, milk, eggs and vanilla until well combined. Add wet ingredients to dry ingredients and mix until blended.

Pour brownie batter evenly into prepared pan.

Carefully pour cheesecake batter over top, spreading evenly. Carefully swirl layers together using knife tip.

Bake 30 minutes until brownies are set.

Cool brownies completely in pan on wire rack before cutting into triangle pieces.

Decorate trees by piping green and white frosting. Top with assorted sprinkles and star-shaped sprinkles. Place 3-inch candy cane pieces in bottoms of brownies for stumps.

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10 essential Christmas songs

It's that time of year again, so break out the turkey and the decorations. Whilst you're there we implore you to stick on these tracks too, all of which will more than get you in the appropriate mood.

Bing Crosby ' White Christmas' Whilst nobody could advise against watching the 1954 film from which this song is taken, we're talking music here, not video, and the gentle tones of Mr Crosby still sound great, even when you can't see his face.

The Pogues ' Fairytale of New York ' It wasnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t made for Christmas and tells a tale that's devoid of seasonal cheer. Nevertheless, the Irish punk-folk kings crafted the best track to sing whilst in the pub on 24th December, and for that we salute them.

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Bobby Helms ' Jingle Bell Rock ' If you want country rock 'n' roll guitar twang, mixed with a festive atmosphere, then look no further than Bobby Helms' watershed 1957 single, Jingle Bell Rock. Good times, quite literally, guaranteed.

David Bowie & Bing Crosby ' The Little Drummer Boy ' This song is set to a bizarre back-story, where David calls at Bing's house for a 'surprise' visit.

The two hit it off and, although the idea of a Bowie-Crosby duet seems weird, the result of their jam is a true delight.

Mariah Carey ' All I Want For Christmas Is You ' There are a lot of things not to like about Mariah 'Diva' Carey, but this hit from the mid-90s isn't one of them. From the opening sound of sleigh-bells to the sudden change in tempo, it's a bona fide party-starter.

Slade ' Merry Christmas Everybody ' The lungs of Neville John 'Noddy' Holder, MBE no less, are put to the test in this glam-rock message of goodwill to all. There's not a pair of ears in Britain that won't be exposed to this between now and January.

Bruce Springsteen ' Santa Claus Is Comin' To Town ' Who can forget the first time they heard The Big Man himself delivering this stunning rendition of what could be the most exciting Yuletide anthem of all time? Well, certainly not us, that's for sure.

Eartha Kitt ' Santa Baby ' Sexy, sultry, suggestive but unarguably fun, Ms. Kitt proves herself to be quite the kitten under the tree with her version of this classic Christmas coupling tune, later re-released by Madonna.

The Waitresses ' Christmas Wrapping ' It's fast, infectiously positive and few people know the words. The Waitresses have one clear message, though: " Merry Christmas, Merry Christmas, couldn't miss this one this year ." Enough said, then.

The Nat King Cole Trio ' The Christmas Song ' " Chestnuts roasting on an open fire. Jack Frost nipping at your nose. Yuletide carols being sung by a choir and folks dressed up like Eskimos. " Political incorrectness aside, you have to love it.

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7 alternative Christmas films

We know what it's like. Around this time of year every magazine, newspaper and website under the midwinter sun begins churning out the same old lists, with the same old movies. It's one lazy, seasonal gesture away from the feeling you get when supermarkets begin stocking stockingfillers halfway into September.

Even as an adult, Christmas shouldn't be boring, repetitive or routine though. It can still be full of magic, a little mystery and excitement. Not to mention a few surprises. In the true, childish spirit of the holidays then, here are ten seasonal flicks that don&#39;t follow the norm, from the outrageous and offensive to the downright bizarre.

Bad Santa ; dir. Terry Zwigoff; 2003 Starring: Billy Bob Thornton, Bernie Mac, Lauren Graham Alcoholic, womanising, violent and obnoxious, a shopping-mall Santa and his Head Elf pull off daring heists each Christmas Eve, meaning we shouldn't need to explain why this truly hilarious film made the grade.

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The Thin Man ; dir. W.S. Dyke; 1934 Starring: William Powell, Myrna Loy, Maureen O'Sullivan Over the Christmas holidays, a husband and wife detective duo investigate a missing persons case, combining film noir with some rather screwball, festively-themed fun.

Trading Places ; dir. John Landis; 1983 Starring: Eddie Murphy, Dan Ackroyd, Ralph Bellamy A well-heeled New York investment broker is framed for stealing, fired, ostracised, and then replaced with a streetwise conman from the 'hood as part of a distasteful bet made by his bosses. Oh, and its Christmas.

Silent Night, Deadly Night ; dir. Charles E. Sellier Jr.; 1984 Starring: Lilyan Chauvin, Gilmer McCormick, Toni Nero Nothing says Yuletide like a teen orphan and victim of child abuse dressing up as Santa to embark on a murderous rampage. Grisly horror stuff, it's probably not the best film ever made.

Santa Claus Conquers the Martians ; dir. Nicholas Webster; 1964 Starring: John Call, Leonard Hicks, Vincent Beck OK, the clue is in the name here. A product of mid-20th Century paranoia, outer space types take off with St. Nick because there's nobody to hand out presents on Mars. Yes, this actually happened.

The Hudsucker Proxy ; dir. Joel Coen, Ethan Coen; 1994 Starring: Tim Robbins, Paul Newman, Jennifer Jason Leigh The Coens turn their hand to the kind of sentimentality associated with It's A Wonderful Life director Frank Capra, as a strange invention goes on to be that year's essential Christmas gift. "You know, for kids".

Batman Returns ; dir. Tim Burton; 1992 Starring: Michael Keaton, Michelle Pfeiffer, Danny DeVito Set in a snow-filled, wintry Gotham City, although the plot itself concerns hordes of missilewearing hench-penguins hell-bent on taking over town, we challenge you not to feel festive whilst watching.

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CHRISTMAS- 5 gift ideas for him

From TV adverts to in-store promotions, the chill in the air to outdoor festive markets in every major city, there's no mistaking what time of year it is.

So Christmas is finally upon us, meaning the majority of Brits are now planning what to buy loved ones, whilst thinking up their own wish list. But with every retailer under the wintry sun desperate to sell you something, or indeed anything, it's easy to find yourself overwhelmed with options, but without any really good ideas on what to get that special someone. Fear not, we've got you covered, with the following list of great presents, ideal for the man in your life.

XBOX ONE Since its launch, the XBOX ONE has been going from strength to strength, with a staggering selection of great games aimed at the one-player market. Granted, you probably don't want to come home from work every day to find him glued to Halo. but there&#39;s no denying he&#39;ll appreciate the gift nonetheless.

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Mackintosh Jacket The Mac is a timeless garment that's also fit for a multitude or purposes. Coupled with a suit it's the ideal smart coat, but these design classics are also a perfect match for less formal affairs. Of course the 'original' Burberry jackets may well be unaffordable, but thankfully many high street stores have alternatives at far less than half the price of those.

Scarves and gloves Cliched? Perhaps. Useful? Definitely. Although December isn't the beginning of the cold season in the UK, winter continues until late-February-early-March, and even after that Britain has a habit of not being that warm. As such investing in a good quality, beautifully made scarf, along with a pair of gorgeous gloves is always money well spent.

iPad Although Apple's legendary tablet doesn't come cheap few people who own one would say they aren't worth forking out for. Thanks to a recent software update, the latest model is the closest yet to matching low-end laptops for functionality, making it an ideal piece of kit for those who travel for work and need to stay on top of things whilst away.

Weekend break This may well be the best of all our ideas. In fact it definitely is. Escaping for a romantic getaway is rarely anything short of amazing, and when someone takes the time to plan a weekend away it's incredibly touching. Websites like Air B&B, coupled with budget airlines like Easyjet, ensure that you don't have to spend a fortune to take someone somewhere incredible too.

Image (C) Hades2K

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CHRISTMAS- 5 gift ideas for her

From TV adverts to in-store promotions, the chill in the air to outdoor festive markets in every major city, there's no mistaking what time of year it is.

So Christmas is finally upon us, meaning the majority of Brits are now planning what to buy loved ones, whilst thinking up their own wish list. But with every retailer under the wintry sun desperate to sell you something, or indeed anything, it's easy to find yourself overwhelmed with options, but without any really good ideas on what to get that special someone. Fear not, we've got you covered, with the following list of great presents, ideal for the woman in your life.

Lingerie An obvious suggestion, but there's a very good reason for that. By buying someone underwear as a present it shows intimacy in the relationship and reassures them that there's still plenty of spark left. A word of advice, though, keep it tasteful so as not to offend, unless the gift is tongue in cheek.

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Perfume Choosing their favourite perfume shows that you take notice of the tiny details, i.e. how your better, prettier half smells, and likes to smell. Scents create moods, with this particular sense one of the most powerful of all five, particularly in terms of romance and memory.

Scarves and gloves Cliched? Perhaps. Useful? Definitely. Although December isn't the beginning of the cold season in the UK, winter continues until late-February-early-March, and even after that Britain has a habit of not being that warm. As such investing in a good quality, beautifully made scarf, along with a pair of good gloves, is nothing short of essential.

Spas and experiences Chances are if the lady in your life is a spa user she mostly goes with friends. But how about turning that trend on its head, though, by booking both of you in for a day of pampering treatments, in turn making it clear that you enjoy spending time together doing things that might not be top of your own list.

Weekend break This may well be the best of all our ideas. In fact, it definitely is. Escaping for a romantic getaway is rarely anything short of amazing, and when someone takes the time to plan a weekend away it's incredibly touching. Websites like Air B&B, coupled with budget airlines like Easyjet, ensure that you don't have to spend a fortune to take someone somewhere incredible.

Image (C) Miki Yoshihito

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CHRISTMAS - 7 festive things youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll remember if you grew up in the 80s Had it up to here with overcrowded Christmas markets? Sick and tired of attempting to snag some seasonal love via a dating app full of people that never seem to swipe right? Longing for the innocence of days gone by?

Thought so... hence us coming up with the following festive icons that represent a simpler time- namely the fabulous 1980s.

Without further ado then, here's the list in all its big-haired glory.

Gremlins was released (pictured) It's still one of the best movies to watch at this time of year, and always will be. The story of the cute fur ball, given as a Christmas gift, who winds up infesting Small Town USA with nasty little be-scaled green monsters, is enough to make anyone hark back.

Nintendo NES is what we all wanted Preceding pretty much every other must-have console, other than the early tape-based models like the Spectrum ZX, Nintendo's NES represented everything children dreamed of getting for Christmas in the 1980s. Namely Mario. And Zelda.

Only three channels (and then four) These days we're spoilt for choice when it comes to what's on the box, especially at Christmas. There was a time, though, when the offering was more limited, with just BBCs One and Two, and ITV, until Channel 4 arrived just in time for 1982's festivities.

Plastic 'miracle fish' appeared in every other cracker Rumor had it these bizarre additions to Christmas crackers could tell you your fate simply by bending in accordance with the heat radiating from your hands. It's probably true, too. Maybe.

Rubik's cubes kept you busy (for a bit) The ultimate stocking filler, you can never get bored of adjusting a cube made up of tiny, multi-colored cubes, in an attempt to make each side one solid primary hue. Well, OK, that's a lie, less patient types might have had enough after a minute or so, but still...

Sylvanian Families were cute Currently experiencing something of a resurgence, the Sylvanian Families are typical of the decade in question.

The adorable animal characters and their accompanying playsets defined what it meant to be a six-year-old girl.

Viennetta was the go-to alternative to Christmas pudding Long before Britain reinvented itself as a foodie paradise people relied on frozen things to impress dinner guests.

Although a year-round classic, the Arctic aesthetics of a Viennetta- kind of like an ice cream loaf- really came into its own during December.

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INFINISTREAM produced its first content with the CVS Alumni Virtual Talent Show.

Kel Mitchell makes a cameo appearance. Watch talent show & video infinistream.org

Hosted by Infiniâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Founder, Ametra Self 82

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Reviews with Faye Renee Check out the Latest Film Reviews: LET HIM GO Best Film of 2020 So Far—Definitely Oscar worthy starring Kevin Costner and Diane Lane—a great film—bring your Kleenex! You can catch Let Him Go On Demand—worth the $bucks! https://youtu.be/omZsigMjU24 DURING THE PANDEMIC AND YOUR “QUARANTINE AND CHILL TIME”, CHECK OUT OUR LIST OF “100 OF THE GREATEST CHRISTMAS HOLIDAY FILMS” TO WATCH ON CABLE AND TELEVISION: https://documentcloud.adobe.com/link/review?uri=urn:aaid:scds:US:933c9346-6426-4346-a5fb2deab0b82bd5 POWER BOOK II: GHOST will be Back this December 6th with Mary J. Blige headlining—Amazing Cast this Season!

Check out Faye Renee’s Previous First Thoughts on Power Book II below: Power Book II: Ghost First Thoughts With Faye Renee Episode 1: https://youtu.be/fGIFGW3B9ME Power Book II: Ghost First Thoughts With Faye Renee Episode 2: https://youtu.be/at8JRTad7sM Power Book II: Ghost First Thoughts With Faye Renee Episode 3: https://youtu.be/HbPcLv4meKo Power Book II: Ghost First Thoughts With Faye Renee Episode 4: https://youtu.be/gXzhw6tFtk0

Remember, It's Not Over--We’re All in this Together— Keep the Faith, and While You’re Chillaxin at Home, You Can Stop by and Visit With Us Right on Your TV Set @ the YouTube Channel @ https://YouTube.com/c/ReviewswithFayeRenee and We Will Definitely Keep You Entertained—Check it Out! Watch Videos, Like the Videos, Support Channel and Subscribe to Channel for 100% FREE! #StaySafe! #fayerenee #reviewswithfayerenee #infinimagazine

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