Home Happens Here
Timeless charm meets endless possibilities in this five-bedroom, 2.5-bathroom Splanchstyle home, nestled in the highly desirable East Northport area within the Commack school district. Five spacious bedrooms, eat-in kitchen, den with wood-burning fireplace. expansive backyard with a paver patio. Sitting on a shy half-acre of property. $975,000
Contact Lynn Witz
Situated at the end of a peaceful cul-de-sac, this five-bedroom, four-bathroom colonial home offers a grand two-story entryway. Spacious, open floor plan. Fenced-in backyard complete with a patio and deck overlooking an inviting in-ground pool. Primary suite boasting two walk-in closets and an ensuite bath. $1,295,000
Contact Lynn Witz and Traci Gazzo
Charming Colonial-style home, perfectly situated in the highly sought-after Tulipwood section. Boasting four bedrooms and 2.5 bathrooms, this residence offers an inviting canvas for your dream lifestyle. Cozy den features a wood-burning fireplace. primary suite, a luxurious haven flaunting two spacious walk-in closets, and an ensuite bathroom. $725,000
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extraordinary five bedroom plus a home office three-bathroom expanded Colonial. Stunning two-story entryway. vaulted ceilings add an airy grandeur to the expansive den, living room, and generously sized bedrooms. Beautifully renovated kitchen. Sprawling Trex deck, and inground pool. $1,200,000 Contact Lynn Witz
This three-bedroom two-bathroom Ranchstyle charmer is situated in a prime mid-block location. open floor plan where each space flows seamlessly into the next. Updated eat-in kitchen. Converted garage serves as an elevated den with vaulted ceilings, a space where relaxation and entertainment blend effortlessly. Solar panels on the updated roof and central air conditioning. $675,000 Contact Lynn Witz
Charming Colonial Home nestled in Historic Idle Hour! Welcome to this beautifully maintained 3-bedroom, 2-bath colonial home. This property offers a perfect blend of classic charm and modern amenities, set on a serene .45-acre lot. first Floor Primary bedroom with an en-suite bath. $879,000 Contact Ibelle Casanas
Welcome to your dream home.
This stunning 4-bedroom, 2.5-bathroom splanch style home o ers unparalleled luxury and comfort. Step inside to discover a pristine haven of modern elegance, where no detail has been overlooked. Be greeted by contemporary wide-plank oors that lead you through the spacious and sun-drenched interior. Crisp white styling elevates the ambiance throughout the home with quality ttings throughout. The heart of this home features a gourmet kitchen, with high-end Bertazzoni kitchen appliances, quartz countertops, and new cabinetry. Entertaining will be a breeze on the patio on a sunny day or in the dining area overlooking the lush green yard. Kohler sinks, faucets, toilets, and a free-standing cast iron tub add a touch of luxury to the primary suite. Radiant heat ows throughout the entire rst oor, and the master bath oor and shower oor, ensuring warmth and comfort year-round. New steel beams, insulation and sheetrock have been installed to provide greater peace of mind, while upgraded plumbing has been moved out of the slab to ensure greater e ciency. With a new gas boiler and hot water heater, as well as new central air conditioning, you can be sure of a comfortable living environment all year round. Outside, the transformation continues with a new shingle and metal roof, Hardi Board siding, and Marvin Estate windows with Azek Trim. The addition of new PVC fencing and a new driveway enhances both privacy and curb appeal. Plus, with 15,000 square feet of sod, the expansive yard provides endless opportunities for outdoor enjoyment. Additional features include new stairs with stylish cable rails, a Samsung washer and steam dryer, and all-new baseboards. Don’t miss your chance to own this impeccably renovated home. To truly appreciate the beauty and craftsmanship of this home, schedule your showing.
List Price $1,295,000. Contact Lynn Witz
Lynn Witz was recognized as the 2023 Top Sales Agent of the Year, for the entire Coach Realtors organization. An honor given to only one of our rm’s 700 sales agents Commack O ce | 212 Commack Road Commack, NY 11725
Lynn Witz
CBR CLHMS, SRES, CHMS Lic. Real Estate Salesperson
Top Sales Agent of the Years 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014,2015, 2016, 2017, 2018 & 2019 & Top Listing Agent 2020, 2021, 2022 and 2023 631.499.1000 Ext. 1229 Lynnwitz@gmail.com
Thistime of year we reflect on all that 2024 has brought us, while thinking of what we strive to accomplish in the year ahead. We are so thankful for each and every one of you; we simply couldn't do what we do without your loyal readership.
As you flip through the pages, you'll find seasonal editorial, along with timely and informative local stories throughout. Plus, don't miss our holiday coloring contest, where you can win a 4-pack of tickets to the Long Island Aquarium! We wish you joy, peace and happiness throughout the season and always.
www.longislandmediagroup.com
Spend New Year’s Day Visiting One Of Long Island’s Iconic Lighthouses
The first day of a new year often brings upon feelings of hope and excitment, as we embark on a fresh start and begin to tackle our recently-declared New Year’s resolutions. You may find yourself searching for a memorable activity that you and your loved ones can set your sights on come January 1st. Whether or not your resolution pertains to “being more active,” consider taking a walk to one of Long Island’s iconic lighthouses, the Fire Island Lighthouse. This famous destination can easily be enjoyed by all who visit.
Tower is open from 10 AM - 3:30 PM daily.
Museum and Gift Shop are open 10 AM - 4 PM daily. Plus, you can now shop their gift shop from the comfort of your home! Visit www.fireislandlighthouse.com for more information.
January 12 Evening Tower Tour
On Sunday, January 12, there will be an Evening Tower Tour at 4 PM. Enjoy watching the sunset from the top of the Fire Island Lighthouse! Bring a flashlight for your walk back to the parking lot. Reservations are required. Visit www. fireislandlighthouse for pricing and more information.
Fire Island Lighthouse
Fire Island, New York
The Fire Island Lighthouse, located at the western tip of Fire Island, was one of the first landmarks visitors saw when arriving by ship from Europe. It is Long Island’s tallest lighthouse tower at 168 feet tall, with 182 steps to the top. This very well may be the most recognizable and visited lighthouse on the island.
Fun Books To Read To Children This Holiday Season
The holiday season is a special time of year for people of all ages, but children might be the most enthusiastic celebrants come December. Children spend much of the holiday season anticipating the arrival of the man in the red suit, and that enthusiasm can be contagious. Families have their own unique traditions during the holiday season, but one popular way to harness kids’ enthusiasm during the holiday season is to read them holiday stories. There’s no shortage of great holiday books for kids, but here are a handful that kids may remember well into adulthood.
• “The Polar Express,” by
Chris Van Allsburg: The beloved tale is the story of a young boy who boards a mysterious train bound for the North Pole.
• “The Littlest Elf,” by Brandi Dougherty: Part of a series, this story focuses on a tiny elf named Oliver and a series of misadventures as he navigates his way through Santa’s workshop.
• “Olive, the Other Reindeer,” by Vivian Walsh: Olive is no ordinary reindeer. In fact, Olive is a dog who heads to the North Pole believing she is a reindeer. Her decision to join Santa’s team ultimate-
days.
• “A Night in Santa’s Great Big Bag,” by Kristin Kladstrup: Santa saves the day in this tale starring a young boy’s favorite stuffed animal, whose excitement for Christmas compels him to climb into Santa’s big bag of presents on Christmas Eve.
• “Santa Claus and the Three Bears,” by Maria Modugno: This twist on the popular tale “Goldilocks and the Three Bears” finds three unsuspecting bears encountering a familiar fellow in a red suit upon returning home after a nighttime walk.
• “Twas the Night Before Christmas: Edited by Santa Claus for the Benefit of Children of the 21st Century,” by Clement C. Moore: Parents will appreciate this updated version of the popular tale that, among other things, has removed the reference to Santa smoking.
ly benefits the big man and his trusty reindeer.
• “The Miracle of the First Poinsettia: A Mexican Christmas Story,” by Joanne Oppenheim: A little girl named Juanita is the star of this retelling of a traditional Mexican tale with a valuable lesson.
• “Gingerbread Mouse: A Christmas Holiday Book for Kids,” by Katy Bratun: A fallen tree branch almost ruins Christmas for Mouse, whose determination and resourcefulness mixed in with a little Christmas magic ensures she finds a place to call home in time for the holi-
• “How the Grinch Stole Christmas!” by Dr. Seuss: Children can join generations of fans that came before them as they hear the redemption story of the Grinch who was once determined to ruin Christmas for the happy people of Who-ville.
• “The Nutcracker,” by the New York City Ballet: The classic story is retold based on famed choreographer George Balanchine’s production.
The holiday season is steeped in tradition. Reading new and classic holiday stories to children is one tradition any family can embrace.
16A Wall Street, Huntington, NY 11743 galluzzoteam.com | 631.774.3333
How To Host A New Year’s Brunch
NewYear’s Day unofficially marks the end of the holiday season. After the turkey and trimmings of Thanksgiving and the gifts galore of Christmas and Chanukah, New Year’s presents one final chance to toast to fun and fortune.
Chances are good that after an evening of ringing in the New Year and dancing until dawn, most people sleep in and catch up on a few extra hours sleep on January 1. Breakfast may come and go before tired revelers are ready to greet the day. That is what makes brunch so popular on January 1.
Brunch is a meal eaten in the late morning or early afternoon — generally between the hours of 10 a.m. and 1 p.m. It consists of a blend of breakfast and lunch foods. Historical evidence suggests that brunch originated in the British
upper classes in the late 19th century. Many upperclass people gave servants partial or full days off on Sundays. Staff would set out buffet spreads in the morning before leaving, enabling homeowners to graze among breakfast and lunch items.
It may be challenging to compete with the excitement of New Year’s Eve, but a New Year’s Day brunch can be just as memorable, especially when planning is a priority.
• Send invitations early on. The holiday season is a busy time and people often commit to invitations early on. If you want to host certain guests at the brunch, send out those invitations several weeks in advance.
• Keep it intimate. Individuals will be feeling the effects of a late night of partying and it’s likely you will be as well. Make things easier on yourself by keeping the
omelets, French toast, bagels, deli meats, and salads. If you want to get creative, change up these recipes in subtle ways, such as serving French toast stick dippers with a warm maplecaramel dipping sauce or bite-sized omelets baked in small ramekins.
• Keep the coffee flowing. Coffee, teas and hot chocolate are great at brunch. It’s easier to recover from New Year’s Eve overindulgence with a warm jolt of caffeine. Set up a nice beverage bar, and be sure to include other drinks that enable guests to rehydrate after a night of revelry.
guest list on the small side. In turn, there will be less food required and perhaps less mess to clean up afterward.
• Serve familiar foods. Brunch combines the best of breakfast and lunch. Guests will be expecting some of the standards, including
• Keep it simple. Soft music and nice conversation may be all that’s needed to entertain during a New Year’s brunch. Another low-key option is to queue up a light-hearted movie or play a relatively easy trivia game.
New Year’s brunches can close the door on another successful holiday season with a relaxing afternoon spent in the company of family and friends.
NorthportEast Northport Public Library Upcoming Events
NORTHPORT-EAST NORTHPORT PUBLIC LIBRARY GALLERY EXHIBITS
Northport Gallery:
Ruby Through the Seasons by Ruby Larkin Ruby (age 16) has multiple handicaps, and together with her teacher, she uses the mixed media art process to celebrate the seasons.
EAST NORTHPORT GALLERY:
“Good Ground” Comes to East Northport curated by Mike Meehan
An eclectic group of artists offers this display of eclectic artworks—abstract to surreal, traditional to impressionistic.
BOOK GROUPS AT THE LIBRARY
Copies of the books are available at the Northport Library Reference Desk. You may also access a copy of the ebook or audiobook on the library. Downloads page: www.nenpl. org/downloads
THE PAST IS PRESENT
Northport Public Library
Thursday, December 19, 7:00 p.m.
Join Librarian Connor McCormack for this new book club that will meet every other month to discuss a historical nonfiction title and the topics surrounding each work. This month’s selection is The Wager: A Tale of Shipwreck, Mutiny and Murder by David Grann. Registration is underway. NENR593
ALL BOOKED UP
Northport Public Library
Thursday, January 9, 2:00 p.m.
Join Librarian Deborah Formosa to discuss The Stolen Child by Ann Hood. Registration is underway. NENR594
NOVEL IDEAS
Northport Public Library
Monday, January 7, 7:00 p.m.
Join Librarian Candace Reeder to discuss Real Americans by Rachel Khong. Registration is underway. NENA029
ADULT WORKSHOP:
Nutrition Education Workshop:
Healthy Beverages/Limiting Sugar
Northport Public Library
Friday, December 20, 7:00 p.m.
Island Winds is a group of 12 renowned Long Island musicians who have received accolades for their performances at venues from Montauk to Manhattan. The group presents music ranging from light classics to well-known modern music from Broadway, jazz repertoire, and all-time favorites. Come enjoy this special holiday concert, complete with a sing-along! Registration is underway. NENA018
FILM PROGRAMS AT THE LIBRARY
Scrooged
(N) Friday, December 20, 2:00 p.m.
(EN) Friday, December 27, 2:00 p.m.
A selfish, cynical television executive is haunted on Christmas Eve by three spirits bearing lessons. Starring Bill Murray. Rated PG-13. 100 min.
HOLIDAY CONCERT
Island Winds Chamber Ensemble Holiday Concert
Friday, December 20, 7:00 p.m.
Northport Public Library
Island Winds is a group of 12 renowned Long Island musicians who have received accolades for their performances at venues from Montauk to Manhattan. The group presents music ranging from light classics to well-known modern music from Broadway, jazz repertoire, and all-time favorites. Come enjoy this special holiday concert, complete with a sing-along! Registration is underway. NENA018
Fun Ways To Make Christmas Eve Even More Special For Kids
Parentsknow that nothing quite matches the excitement young children feel on Christmas Eve. On the day before Christmas, youngsters anxiously anticipate the arrival of Santa Claus that evening, and are perhaps even more excited by the prospects of the following morning, when they’ll race into the living room and discover all that the jolly old elf left behind. Christmas Eve seems to have some built-in magical components, but there are a handful of ways parents can make the day even more special for children.
• Create a Christmas Eve craft. Gather children and their cousins and/ or friends to create a special Christmas Eve craft or decoration that can be displayed next year. This is a great way to channel youngsters’ nervous Christmas Eve energy into something productive, and it can make for a great tradition families can continue even after kids are grown.
• Watch a favorite Christmas movie. Hollywood has never shied away from holiday fare, so there’s no shortage of festive films to enjoy with youngsters on Christmas Eve. Enjoy a classic like the 1947 film “Miracle on 34th Street” starring Natalie Wood as the adorable “Susan Walker” and
Edmund Gwenn as “Kris Kringle,” or go with something more recent, such as “The Grinch,” the 2018 adaptation of the Dr. Seuss book How the Grinch Stole Christmas.
• Take a nighttime stroll or drive to see the lights. Lighting displays are another component that makes the holiday season so special. After Christmas Eve dinner, take a stroll through your neighborhood to see the lighting displays or climb into the car to take in a different neighborhood’s offerings if you’re already familiar with those in your own neck of the woods.
Christmas Eve is a magical day for youngsters and their parents. Some simple ideas can make the day even more meaningful for children and their families.
Tree Toppers
• Track the big guy’s movements online
The North American Aerospace Defense Command (NORAD) and its predecessor, the Continental Air Defense Command (CONAD), has tracked Santa’s Christmas Eve flight for more than 60 years. Beginning on Christmas Eve, families can track Santa’s movements across the globe at Noradsanta.org. Kids can visit the site to see where Santa is at any given moment on Christmas Eve, growing more excited as the big fella gets closer and closer to their own region.
Christmas trees are a key component of many people's holiday season. It's a family tradition to choose (or take out) the tree each year and then adorn it with ornaments, tinsel, family mementos, and a beautiful tree topper. In regard to tree toppers, most people fasten the top bough with an angel or a star. The first tree toppers were the infant Jesus, but toppers are now available in other options symbolic of the Nativity of Jesus. The star refers to the Star of Bethlehem, which guided the Magi to the birthplace of Jesus. The angel represents the messengers of God as well as the Angel Gabriel, who visited Mary to share the news that she would be giving birth to the Son of God. People can choose whichever topper they prefer, but many refer to the religious significance of Christmas.
Get A Head Start On New Year’s Resolutions
Afterthe rush of the holiday season has largely ended, and the excess of the season starts to weigh on celebrants’ minds, it is customary for many people to start thinking about the changes they want to implement in the new year. According to a Pew Research Center survey of United States adults conducted in January 2024, 30 percent of people reported making at least one resolution, with half of this group making more than one. The survey also found that young adults are the most likely to make New Year’s resolutions, with 49 percent of those between the ages 18 and 29 saying they have made a resolution.
have remained strong contenders, one also may want to invest in the Garmin Vivomove, which boasts wireless charging. Tracking fitness goals can keep those resolutions going strong.
• Improve mental well-being. Getting in shape is not the only health-related goal this time of year. Mental health also comes into play when people make their resolutions. Taking opportunities to slow down and be more mindful can help. One way to do so is through journaling. Human behavior expert and author Natalie Friscia Pancetti, says journaling reduces stress, helps with anxiety, encourages confidence, and can improve perceptions. This is why she developed a journal with inspirational writing prompts as a companion to her “This Too” book and planner.
Clinic says only about 5 percent of people who try to quit succeed without a smoking cessation product. Nicotine replacement items are some of the most popular smoking cessation tools. For those who want to go drug-free, Füm is a device that addresses the three major components of habit formation that occur with smoking. Employing flavored air, the device replaces the fixation of the hand-to-mouth habit with non-addictive plant extracts that are inhaled, simulating smoking without the negative effects.
It’s never too early to start thinking about what to improve upon in 2025, or which goals to set. Here are some common resolutions and how to implement them.
• Exercise more. Getting in shape is one of the most popular New Year’s resolutions every year. Gym memberships spike and people often invest in home exercise equipment around this time of year. According to the American College of Sports Medicine, wearable technology continues to be a top trend in fitness and has been a mainstay since 2016. While Fitbit and the Apple Watch series
• Quit smoking. Quitting smoking is a worthy goal. Health care experts know smoking is the leading cause of lung cancer and has been linked to more than 27 diseases. Many people want to quit smoking, but the Mayo
• Learn a new language. Learning a new skill or language is another popular resolution. Today there are many apps available to help people learn one or more new languages. From Duolingo to Babbel to Memrise, there are programs available whether one is a visual learner or wants to jump right into specific phrases.
Many people get a jumpstart on identifying their resolutions in early- to mid-December so they’ll be ready to move forward come New Year’s Day.
Go 'Mutts' For These Pet Gifts
According to the American Pet Products Association, consumers in the United States spent $147 billion on pets in 2023. And it’s not just the essentials that have people opening up their wallets for pets. A 2022 YouGov survey found that 57 percent of owners buy holiday gifts for their pets and 40 percent host birthday celebrations.
With the holiday season on the horizon, there’s a good chance that beloved pets are on gift lists this year, particularly for Gen Z pet owners. A study of 1,000 U.S. adults conducted by Talker Research for Newsweek found that Gen Z spends an average of $148.50 on their pets each month, the highest of all surveyed. For those shopping for gifts their pets will enjoy, these options could have tails wagging.
• Treat dispenser: It isn’t possible to be home with their pets all of the time. A dispenser that can be programmed to offer treats at certain intervals or
connected to an app that enables a person to release one at the push of a button can be a nice gift to surprise stay-at-home pets.
• Puzzle toy: Pets need to keep their brains working; otherwise, they may get bored and into trouble. A puzzle toy that has treats or kibble hidden behind panels helps pets remain mentally sharp.
• New bed: Upgrade a pet’s bed to something even more lush and comfortable. A fleece blanket and a dedicated pet pillow can help pets feel even more pampered.
• Safety belt: Guarantee that trips in the car to the dog park or other excursions are safer by gifting a safety pet harness that works like a seatbelt in a vehicle.
• Grooming package: Everyone wins when a pet is washed, dried and primped to perfection. Professional groomers have the skills to tame excess fur and trim nails so pets smell wonderful and remain comfortable.
SeasonalSips
Set The Tone For A Holiday Party With This Beloved Seasonal Beverage
Holiday season celebrations have a reputation for being especially jovial. The spirit of the season undoubtedly has something to do with that, as people from all faiths and backgrounds tend to have an extra hop in their step and a slightly wider smile on their faces each December. Holiday hosts also do much to promote the festive spirit of the season. Hosts often go to great lengths to ensure holiday guests enjoy their visits, and that even extends to the food and drinks they serve the people they welcome into their homes. Many celebrants would insist no holiday season get-together is complete without eggnog, a classic beverage that’s most popular in December. This holiday season, hosts can treat their guests to this recipe for “Eggnog” courtesy of Lines+Angles.
Directions:
1. In a cocktail shaker with ice, add the brandy, rum and eggnog together, cover and shake.
2. Add the nutmeg, cinnamon and sugar to a small plate and stir around to combine. Wet the rims of 2 glasses with rum. Roll the rims of the glasses in the spices to coat.
3. Strain the eggnog mixture into the two glasses. Garnish with cinnamon sticks, star anise pods and festive shortbread cookies, if desired.
Eggnog
Makes 2 Servings
2 ounces brandy or cognac
2 ounces dark rum, plus more for sugar rim
1 cup eggnog, prepared
1⁄8 teaspoon nutmeg
1⁄8 teaspoon cinnamon
1⁄2 teaspoon light brown sugar
2 sticks cinnamon, for garnish (optional)
2 pods star anise, for garnish (optional)
Shortbread or gingerbread cookies, for garnish (optional)
Magic Of Lights Drive - Through Experience Illuminates The Imagination During Holiday Season
Magicof Lights, the family-friendly, drivethrough holiday lights festival, is celebrating the grandest holiday of the year with a dazzling, sparkling, and twinkling series of magical light displays in a 2.5-mile drive-through experience, the longest and brightest ever, at both Long Island’s Jones Beach State Park and at Holmdel’s PNC Bank Arts Center running nightly through January 4. Inside the comfort of their own vehicle, guests will enjoy Magic of Lights’ classic holiday favorites including Winter Wonderland, the 12 Days of Christmas, Toyland, festive Elves and Reindeer Road. In addition to the 200 foot long Enchanting Tunnel of Lights, there will also be other new light tunnels to delight and amaze.
Other illuminated displays include the 32-foot-tall animated Mattel’s Waving Christmas Barbie®, Prehistoric Christmas featuring life sized
dazzle and delight guests of all ages.”
The Magic of Lights uses the latest CAD technology and is hand-crafted at the Magic of Lights warehouse in Medina, OH, then, transported to Long Island. The displays combine for more than 10 miles of LED lighting across all presentations, in the trees, and on the buildings. There are 10 different colors of LED bulbs used. The highest scene is 32-feet tall, and the longest is several hundred feet long. The steel displays are designed, bent, cut, and welded into about 800 frames combined in different configurations to create each show’s giant winter holiday scenes.
by Flagstar. Further, a portion of every Jones Beach entry ticket sold will support Mothers Against Drunk Driving and the Foundation for Long Island State Parks Inc.
Guests are encouraged to share their favorite Magic of Lights pictures!
Facebook: @ magicoflightsjonesbeach
Facebook: @ MagicOfLightsNewJersey
Instagram: @ TheMagicOfLights
Magic of Lights is produced in partnership between Family Entertainment Live and Live Nation.
dinosaurs celebrating the season, and the legendary BIGFOOT® Monster Truck. Created with over two million sparkling lights, Magic of Lights is a nostalgic and festive event everyone will enjoy.
The Toyota Holiday Village, which allows guests to walk through a magical out-of-car area featuring Santa Photos, refreshments, and other holiday activities, will also return at both locations. A new augmented reality feature will be introduced this year as well to make the magical experience even more interactive, with details set to be released in November.
“We are excited to return Magic of Lights to both the Long Island and Holmdel communities for as its become a part of the local annual holiday tradition,” says Ken Hudgens, CEO of Family Entertainment Holdings, LLC.
“Our innovative creative team has designed a drive-through holiday wonderland light experience that promises to
Magic of Lights is open Sunday through Thursday from 5 p.m. (dusk) until 10 p.m. and Friday and Saturday from 5 p.m. (dusk) until 11 p.m. For dates, times, and ticket availability, visit magicoflights.com. Admission is $30 in advance or $35 at the gate on weekdays and $30 in advance or $40 at the gate on weekends through November. Price is based per car. Special pricing is available for limousines and buses. Group ticket rates are available. Tickets are available through TicketMaster.com.
At Jones Beach, Magic of Lights is supported by New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation and presented
About Family Entertainment Live
Family Entertainment Holdings, LLC is a diversified, entertainment holding company that develops familyoriented live events including Magic of Lights ®, an outdoor holiday lights drive-through experience produced at venues throughout North America and Hot Wheels® Monster Trucks Live, showcasing a toys-to-life show of Mattel’s legendary Hot Wheels Monster Trucks show presented across North America, Europe and elsewhere internationally. The Company is headquartered in New York, NY. For more information visit familyentertainmentlive.com.
Dining Out For The Holidays
Forsome people there is no better way to celebrate the holidays than to spend time with friends and loved ones around the dinner table. Although cooking and dining at home are popular this time of year, some celebrants may not have the time or the inclination to host the holidays at home. Preparing and serving holiday meals to guests can be timeconsuming. In fact, many holiday hosts and hostesses lament that hosting duties can compromise the time they get to spend with the ones they love each year.
Dining out is one way to save time and free up more moments for interacting without the pressure of food shopping, cooking and cleanup. The following are some tips for families who opt to dine out for the holidays.
• Confirm restaurants are open. Many restaurants close on major holidays to enable staff to spend time with their own family members. This may be more so for Thanksgiving and Christmas than with week-long celebrations like
Chanukah and Kwanzaa. Verify with restaurants if they have holiday hours, and more importantly, that they will be open on the day you will be dining out. Christmas Day falls on a Monday in 2023, which typically is a day that many restaurants are closed.
• Make a reservation. If you find an establishment open for the holiday, reserve a table early. Also, some restaurants may ask for a deposit on reservations to ensure you show up.
• Expect some menu changes. To account for reduced staff or even ease in meal service, some restaurants may opt for a price-fixed holiday menu or a limited menu from their typical offerings. Some may showcase a seasonal menu that caters to holiday favorites they think diners will expect. There also may be fewer substitutions or customizations allowed.
• Avoid peak dining times. Restaurants may fill up after church services or around dinner time. Consider
and it may take longer than expected for food to make it out to tables. Cut kitchen employees and servers a break as they are likely frazzled. They are trying their best to service all patrons.
• Plan to tip generously. It’s the season of giving, and you should make sure you take care of your server. You can make the day even brighter with some words of gratitude and a nice gratuity.
reserving your table for a less popular hour to reduce the propensity for long waits or being rushed out.
• Be patient. Kitchens can get backed up on a holiday,
• Pace alcoholic beverages. It’s normal to enjoy some spirited drinks during holiday celebrations. It’s easier to indulge a bit more at home and you do not need to get behind the wheel. When dining out, do not overdo things, and have a plan for who will be driving home.
Some Unique New Year's Celebrations Across The Globe
It is time to turn the page on one year and usher in another. Each December 31, people all over the world reminisce, celebrate, plan, and party in honor of the changing calendar.
Many are likely familiar with some of the common ways to ring in the new year, which include champagne toasts, fireworks and watching the ball drop in Times Square. Yet, there are many other
ways to celebrate this occasion and welcome a new year with hope and good luck. Enjoy these ways to commemorate the start of 2025.
· Smash pomegranates for luck. Many have heard of smashing grapes to make wine, and the band Smashing Pumpkins has millions of devoted followers across the globe. The comic Gallagher used to smash watermelons
on stage. But in Turkey, smashing a pomegranate outside your front door is said to bring good luck. The fruit is seen as a symbol of prosperity, abundance and health.
· Put on some polka dots. In the Philippines, wearing polka-dotted clothing on New Year's Eve is a tradition said to bring good fortune in the new year, according to Philstar Life.
· Grab some cash. There's a perpetuating superstition that it's better to have some extra money in your wallet to enter the New Year full of financial prosperity. Also, it's best to wipe out any unpaid debts before December 31 disappears; otherwise, the months ahead might not be financially sound.
