Holiday gift guide 2012

THE NEWTOWN BEE’S

Holiday Gift Guide 2012

SUPPLEMENT TO THE NEWTOWN BEE — NOVEMBER 16, 2012

2 - Holiday Gift Guide

The Newtown Bee - November 16, 2012

Wellness

Balance

Renewal

wishing you a wonderful holiday season...

Massage • Facials • Body Treatments • Nail Care • Laser Services Phone Orders Are Always Welcome!

Warm Wishes!

Instan t Gi availab ft Certificat e le Onl ine! s

from

Avancé Esthétiques 228 South Main St., Sand Hill Plaza, Newtown, CT www.avanceesthetiques.com • 203-270-8911

HOURS: Tues.-Thurs. 12 to 9 pm • Wed. 10 am to 6 pm • Fri. 9 am to 6 pm • Sat. 9 am to 5 pm Over 20 years of service, under New Management since 2009

Special Holiday Hours: Sunday, December 16th and 23rd 11 am to 5 pm for Gift Cards, Monday, December 24th - 10 am to 3 pm for Gift Cards and Services

The Newtown Bee - November 16, 2012

Holiday Gift Guide - 3

H O U S AT O N I C VA L L E Y WA L D O R F S C H O O L

FRIDAY November 16

Local Artisans of Extraordinary Hand Crafted Gifts

and

SATURDAY November 17

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 16 6pm - 9pm Festive adult-only evening of wine, artisanal cheeses, light appetizers and holiday shopping:

UNIQUE CHILDREN’S TOYS • HANDPAINTED SILKS BEAUTIFUL KNITWEAR • BEESWAX CANDLES HANDCRAFTED GLASS AND JEWELRY • POTTERY NATURAL SOAPS AND BODY LOTIONS HAND-DYED WOOL • HOME AND GARDEN GOODS HANDFELTED HATS, PURSES & MORE

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 17 10am - 3pm Full day of holiday shopping for the whole family.

Take a break and enjoy delicious pizza from Fat Cat Pie Company of Norwalk.

–INDOORS– RAIN OR

to Easy ! find

SHINE

FREE

ADMISSION

1 Jacklin Road Newtown, CT 06470 203.364.1113

4 - Holiday Gift Guide

The Newtown Bee - November 16, 2012

THE PERFECT GIFT Gentlemen’s Time Out 7KHUDSHXWLF PDVVDJH WUDGLWLRQDO EDUEHU KDLUFXW DQG FRPSOLPHQWDU\ IXOO VL]H VFDOS FOHDQVLQJ VKDPSRR DQG LQYLJRUDWLQJ FRQGLWLRQHU Ladies’ Indulgence 7KHUDSHXWLF PDVVDJH FROODJHQ IDFLDO DQG VSD PDQLFXUH Relaxation Retreat &ROODJHQ IDFLDO VSD PDQLFXUH DQG SHGLFXUH Rejuvenation 3XUFKDVH PRQWKV RI RXU UHSOHQLVKLQJ FROODJHQ IDFLDOV From Head to Toes 6SD PDQLFXUH DQG SHGLFXUH All About Me 7KHUDSHXWLF PDVVDJH &ROODJHQ IDFLDO DQG VSD PDQLFXUH DQG SHGLFXUH

99 South Main Street Newtown, CT 06470 203-426-1611

3ULQW \RXU FHUWLŹFDWH IURP ZZZ ULFFLVVDORQ FRP IRU DQ\ DPRXQW QRZ

The Newtown Bee - November 16, 2012

Holiday Gift Guide - 5

Top of the Class Advanced Academy HAIRDRESSERS at the Top of the class are just that… 7RS KDLUGUHVVHUV WKDW ¿QLVKHG RXU VFKRRO DW WKH WRS RI WKHLU FODVV DQG ZLOO EH MRLQLQJ RXU PDVWHU VW\OLVWV LQ ZRUOG FODVV 5LFFL¶V 6DORQ ZLWKLQ D RQH \HDU WLPH IUDPH %\ MRLQLQJ WKHP QRZ DW WKHLU FXUUHQW ORFDWLRQ \RX ZLOO UHDS D OLIHWLPH RI EHQH¿WV DOZD\V GLVFRXQWHG 5HFHLYH H[FHOOHQW FXVWRPHU VHUYLFH DQG WHFKQLFDO H[SHUWLVH DW D YHU\ FRPSHWLWLYH SULFH Located at 99 South Main St, Newtown, CT

50% OFF

New Top of the Class clients only not in our computer system for 2 years

KDLUFXWV ‡ &RORU ‡ )RLOV ‡ 3HUPV LQFOXGLQJ EORZ GU\

Come meet hairdressings newest talent... call 203.426.0507 ‡ open 7 days a week

GREAT GIFT IDEA! Master Barber Haircut and traditional 20 minute straight edge shave $35 5HFHLYH RXU R] FORVH FDOO VKDYH FUHDP ZLWK RXU FRPSOLPHQWV

Walk-In Service Welcome or Call 203-426-5222 :V\[O 4HPU :[YLL[ ‹ 5L^[V^U *; ^^^ /LYV-VY4LU JVT

HALFOFF HAIRCUT New Clients Only.

1RW LQ RXU FRPSXWHU V\VWHP IRU \HDUV 2QH FRXSRQ SHU FOLHQW &DQQRW EH FRPELQHG ZLWK DQ\ RWKHU RIIHU RU SURPRWLRQ

40%OFF

Hero Shampoo, Gel and Shaving Products 2QH FRXSRQ SHU FOLHQW &DQQRW EH FRPELQHG ZLWK DQ\ RWKHU RIIHU RU SURPRWLRQ

For the HERO in you...

6 - Holiday Gift Guide

The Newtown Bee - November 16, 2012

Southbury - The Commons Plaza

Annual Holiday

*

SALE 20% OFF Your Entire Purchase

Friday th

December 7

Shop from 10:00AM until 6:00PM

250 Main Street South, Southbury 203-264-9000 Call

* Cannot be combined with other offers. Valid on in store merchandise only. Not valid on red tag sale items, layaways, previous purchases or gift card purchases. Please no returns on sale days.

* Sorry no wrap available on sales days.

Enjoy the Journey...

For Holiday Hours

The Newtown Bee - November 16, 2012

Holiday Gift Guide - 7

ANTIQUES ~ ESTATE ~ CONTEMPORARY

SALE

GAYLE O’N EILL FINE JEWELRY Southbury Green, Southbury, CT. 203-264-0600 WE BUY GOLD

WWW.GAYLEONEILLANTIQUEJEWELRY.COM

8 - Holiday Gift Guide

The Newtown Bee - November 16, 2012

Please Join Us...

SANDY HOOK TREE LIGHTING Saturday, December 1

st

Festivities beginning at 4:00 Tree Lighting at 6:00 and more...

SHOPS AND BUSINESSES

SHOPS AND BUSINESSES (cont.)

Apex Glass

Sabrina Style

Children’s Adventure Center

Open House 10% Discount on all Non-Sale Items

Food Pantry Drop Off

Connecticut Counselors Holiday Treats

Faith At Newtown Holiday Gifts and Treats

Fun Kuts/Fun Kids Consignments Face Painting and Holiday Refreshments

Graceful Planet Moving Arts Center Karaoke Fun at the Tree

Haas Insurance Newtown Senior Center PJ’s Laundromat Food Pantry Drop Off

Porco Karate Open House, Popcorn

Sandy Hook Volunteer Fire & Rescue Company Sandy Hook Hair Company Open House, Refreshments

St. John's Church Suzuki Music School Wishing Well Open House, 10% Off with mention of this ad

Toy Tree Pick-up your 3D glasses to view the Tree

Wesley Learning Center Handing Out Jingle Bell Bracelets around the Tree

The Newtown Bee - November 16, 2012

Please consider bringing a donation for Faith Food Pantry!

Stay and Sing with the Middle School Carolers after the Tree is lit...

Presented by S.H.O.P.

(Sandy Hook Organization for Prosperity)

Happy Holidays to All! RESTAURANTS / EATERIES Demitasse Eggnog and Gingerbread Latte samples, Music

Figs Hot Cider and Dessert available

Ice Cream Heaven Sandy Hook Deli and Catering Open House/Holiday Treats

Sandy Hook Diner Free Balloons

Stone River Grille Free Samples

The Iron Bridge at 100 Church Hill Free Raffle 1 Boy’s bicycle, 1 Girl’s bicycle

The Villa Restaurant Kids eat free from special kid’s menu – 2 per adult please –

Holiday Gift Guide - 9

10 - Holiday Gift Guide

The Newtown Bee - November 16, 2012

Need Some Extra Holiday Cash?

YOUR UNWANTED JEWELRY & COINS ARE WORTH MORE THAN YOU THINK

ALL NEW!

NOW BUYING: COINS

FREE Appraisals • Let our coin expert appraise your coins.

One coin or your entire collection...still no charge!

Silver Coins:

Gold Coins:

Cents:

Paper Money:

All US and foreign silver coins.

Any year and any condition. Foreign or US.

Half cents, large cents, wheat cents and more.

Silver certificates, gold certificates, bank notes and more.

Jewelry:

Watches:

Silverware:

Gold, silver, diamond jewelry. Broken, antique or any condition.

Rolex, Patek, Vacheron as well as no-name gold and silver watches.

NEWEST LOCATION

Sterling silver flatware, candelabras, tea sets.

DO NOT CLEAN YOUR COINS...

IT WILL DECREASE THEIR VALUE

Bullion: Silver, gold, platinum bars and rounds.

Now Open In

Greenwich

www.ctgoldandsilver.com

Owned by Local Residents • Friendly Relaxed Atmosphere HIGHEST PRICES • IMMEDIATE PAYMENT

Here are just some of the things that we buy:

NOW 4

Convenient Gold • Silver • Platinum • Antique Jewelry Locations

Does not apply to coin or bullion. With this coupon only. Cannot be combined. Expires 12/31/12 .

Modern Jewelry • Broken Jewelry Dental Gold • Diamonds • Watches Silverware • Sterling Flatware Silver Coins

BBB Rating: A

WE NOW DO WHOLE HOUSE ESTATES, ANTIQUES AND ESTATE JEWELRY

441 Danbury Road

115 Main Street, Rt 25

23 Danbury Road

(Directly across from New Milford High School)

(Crescent Village)

(Route 7 Across from Boston Market)

New Milford • 860-355-0191 Monroe • 203-261-1115

Wilton • 203-210-7465

1130 E. Putnam Avenue Greenwich 203-990-0555 NEWES LOCATIOT N

The Newtown Bee - November 16, 2012

Holiday Gift Guide - 11

Koenig

FrameWorks Picture Framing and Art Gallery

Holiday 20 50% Sale %

to

20% off Custom Framing • 25% off Ready-Made Frames 50% off Framed Artwork* *Excludes consigned art and “Small Works”

"Maine" by Ann Kromer

"Summer Reeds" by Karla Bernstein

“Small Works” Inside The Box

"B+W" by Tracy Van Buskirk

~ Great for Holiday Gifts ~

OPENING RECEPTION Saturday, December 1, 1-4 pm • On Exhibit: Dec 1st – Dec 24th

We are a dealer of the renowned photorealist artist, Edward Gordon

Edward Gordon “Music Room III”

Specialties include art framing, mirrors, shadow boxes, photography framing Complete Conservation Framing Available HOURS: MONDAY-SATURDAY 10-5 EXTENDED HOLIDAY HOURS

97 South Main Street (Route 25) Newtown (203) 270-1887

www.koenigframeworks.com

12 - Holiday Gift Guide

The Newtown Bee - November 16, 2012

The Newtown Bee - November 16, 2012

Holiday Gift Guide - 13

Hot Lunch Provided Daily!

274 South Main Street

Newtown, CT

203-304-9130 www.thelearningexperience.com

14 - Holiday Gift Guide

The Newtown Bee - November 16, 2012

Tidings of Comfort and Joy From

Newtown Florist of CT, LLC

Many Made-in-the-USA products and some local artisans.

Jewelry Scarves • Soaps Lotions • Powder Fascias Chocolate Baby Gifts & Keepsakes

Reiki Energy Charged Candles Sally Spicers Handbags • Raz & Tag Collectibles Blenko Glass • Guy Wolf Pottery

Fruit and Gourmet Gift Baskets Home Décor • Table and Holiday Decorations and of course Flowers & Plants!

Newtown Florist of CT, LLC 111 South Main Street, Newtown 203-426-1776 • newtownflorist.com

Open Monday through Friday 9 am to 6 pm • Saturday 9 am to 3 pm

The Newtown Bee - November 16, 2012

Holiday Gift Guide - 15

16 - Holiday Gift Guide

The Newtown Bee - November 16, 2012

Owl & Bird Ornaments

CREATE JOY

Bird Wreaths

By Giving Back To Mother Nature Gift Wrapped Bird Feeders

Squirrel-Proof Bird Feeders

Beautiful Bird Feeders

Give a Gift That’s Never Out Of Season!

Bird Socks and Much More!

Our Gift to You!

GET 15% OFF

ANY ONE REGULARLY PRICED ITEM IN THE STORE.

317 Federal Road, Brookfield ½ Mile North of Costco

203-775-4888 www.wbu.com/danbury

Like Us On

Valid at Brookfield,CT location only.

Not Comb. w/other offers.

Expires: Dec. 31, 2012.

NB

COUPON

The Newtown Bee - November 16, 2012

Holiday Gift Guide - 17

Jensen Tire, Auto & Marine, LLC

Your Neighborhood Service Center…

Foreign & Domestic Service and Repair

Wishing you and yours a Happy and Healthy Holiday Season s ner Vehicle ry a o L e e r F • & delive al pickup c lo e e r F • emissions • Certified facility Repair

Comfortable Waiting Room w/Child Play Area

Nationwide Warranty On All Repairs For 12 Months/12,000 Miles

Free Brak e Inspectio n Free Tire R otation Flat Repa ir

Why Internet Shop Tires...

Come Talk to Our Staff

We Will BEAT or MATCH Any Price For Tires!!!

• Manufacturer Scheduled Maintenance Inspections • Lube • Oil Change • 12 mo/12,000 mi National Warranty* • Registered Emission Repair Facility • Brake Service • Tires • Axle Replacement • Battery Sales & Service • Timing Belts • Cooling Systems • Exhaust Systems • Shocks & Struts • A/C Service • Electrical Diagnosis & Service • 4-Wheel Drive…and much more!

If It’s On Your Car, Truck or Boat We Can Fix Or Replace It! Quality Parts and Excellent Customer Service – Second to None!

Winter Maintenance Special Oil Change, Tire Rotation 4 Wheel Alignment 45 Point safety Inspection

Save $60.00

$69.95

Protect for Winter with

Oil Change Special

Prestone Anti-Freeze Flush & Refill

$19.95 Save $14

Reg $129.95

Includes up to 5 quarts of oil and spin-on filter.

With this coupon. Exp 12/31/12 Not to be combined w/any other offer.

Jensen Tire, Auto & Marine LLC

With this coupon. Exp 12/31/12 Not to be combined w/any other offer.

Jensen Tire, Auto & Marine LLC

Save $20.00

$69.95 Reg $89.95

With this coupon. Exp 12/31/12 Not to be combined w/any other offer.

Jensen Tire, Auto & Marine LLC

We Offer Our Customers Two Convenient Locations…

242 Route 34, Monroe Located at intersection of Routes 111 and 34

6746 Main St. Trumbull Located at intersection of Routes 111 and 25

203-459-4244 203-459-TIRE (8473) www.jensenautomotive.com National Institute for

AUTOMOTIVE SERVICE EXCELLENCE

Technician Hours: Monday – Friday 8 am to 5 pm Saturdays 7 am to Noon

18 - Holiday Gift Guide

The Newtown Bee - November 16, 2012

KRUTOLOW

JEWELERS

We are more than a jewelry store Family owned and operated for over 40 years elry w e J e d m-Ma pairs o t s u ks C All Re es and Cloc atch W , y r l ed by l l a t s Jewe n ttery I tchmakers a B h Watc sional Wa Profes

New & Used Previo Watch usly E n j oyed R es: Cartie r, and olex, Citize O t h ers n, Sei ko an d Mor e

G r s e ’ e n t o i n s a g e s S

Service Is Our Business lver & lry i S s Pearl Steel Jewe ess Stainl rat 14-Ca ite Gold & Wh w o l l e Y ilable a v A um Platin Holiday Hours Mon-Wed 9:30-6 Thurs-Fri 9:30-8 Sat 10-5 Sun 12-5

We Buy Gold, Etc. Compramos Oro

Wall & Mante l Cloc Seiko ks & Bul Howa ova C rd Mil locks ler Gr andfat her C locks

WE BUY Free Gift Drawing With This Advertisement

GOLD, SILVER, P L AT I N U M , DIAMONDS, & E S TAT E S

71 Newtown Road, Commerce Plaza, Danbury, CT 203-743-9599 • www.KrutolowJewelers.com

The Newtown Bee - November 16, 2012

Holiday Gift Guide - 19

5 Queen Street, Newtown thequeen@queenstreetgifts.com

203-304-9755

n e p O w o N

20 - Holiday Gift Guide

The Newtown Bee - November 16, 2012

Season’s Greetings from

SPA NATURELLE Where Nature Meets Beauty Adriana’s Skincare Boutique

Spa Packages • Facials • Waxing • Reflexology • Massage The Escape Package 2 hrs $130 Take a break to indulge and stimulate your senses.

Includes: Naturelle European Facial (Reg. $70) Therapeutic Swedish Massage (Reg. $70) Emollient Organic Lip Treatment (Reg. $20)

Royal Treatment Package 3 hrs $185 Be a Queen for a day with this ultimate Royal Package.

Includes: Royal Caviar Facial (Reg. $120), Raindrop Massage (Reg. $80), Pressure Points Neck and Scalp Massage (Reg. $25), Emollient Organic Eye Treatment (Reg. $29) and Hot English Royal Tea and Chocolates, with our compliments.

Organic Spa Package 2½ hrs $155 Get a natural boost for your body and mind.

Includes: Organic Soy Facial (Reg. $85); Argan Healing Massage (Reg. $85); Hand Hydration Treatment (Reg. $15); and a cup of green tea with our compliments.

HOLIDAY SPECIALS 20% OFF New Organic Hydradermabrasion (Reg. $120) 20% OFF Argan Oil Massage (Reg. $85)

The native Romanian owner Adriana has 30 years experience in the best anti-aging facials and treatments, based on the unique training accomplished in Europe.

She dedicated her work, believing in the traditional holistic elements, to treating not only the skin, but also the body and soul.

One-on-one customized facial treatments in conjunction with pressure points massage techniques makes Adriana’s skincare unique and personalized.

Free Consultation and Skin Analysis Gift Certificates Available 203-426-7005 43 South Main Street Newtown, CT www.naturelleskin.com

The Newtown Bee - November 16, 2012

Holiday Gift Guide - 21

CHEERS From Our Family At Unique Groceries & Gifts from England, Ireland, Scotland & Wales.

Always a Proper Array of Comestibles.

147 Mount Pleasant Road, Route 6, Newtown, CT Exit 9 off I-84 to Route 6 West

203-426-9666 www.UKGourmet.US

Holiday Hours Starting Nov. 18 Sun. 12-4 Tues., Thurs., Sat. 9-6 Wed. & Fri. 9-7 Check online for more expanding hours

www.UKGourmet.US Top row left to right: Lisa, Nigel & Beth Bottom row left to right: Nina, Sarah & Kara

Gift Certificates Always Available Shop on-line

The Perfect Gift Basket Stocking Stuffers Advent Calendars Chocolate Tree Ornaments Cadbury Chocolate Bar Selection Boxes Assorted Holiday Party Crackers Bewley's Irish Cream Coffee Glenfiddich Tarts & Cakes

Mondovino Black Olive Crackers English Christmas Tea Gluten-Free Cookies

Gift Baskets -Pre-Designed -Custom Design -Gift & Goodie Bags

Smashing Goodies -Cocktail Sausage Rolls -UK & Irish Cheeses -Daily Fare “Proper” Scones -Elderflower Cordial

22 - Holiday Gift Guide

The Newtown Bee - November 16, 2012

GIFT C ARDS AVAIL ABLE!

The Traditional $ Christmas Book The Elf on the Shelf Is on OUR SHELF!

29 .99

ry the FULL Line r a C of We

An Elf’s Story Elf Movie Release DVD’S ON SALE NOW! Elf Skirts & Accessories too!

• Girls & Boys Activity Sets • Chippey's Great Adventure Book • Activity Books

25% OFF ALL MELISSA & DOUG

Friday, November 23rd

COME JOIN US FOR THE 1ST ANNUAL:

67 Newtown Road, Danbury (Berkshire Shopping Center Next to WalMart) BUYING HOURS M-F 9:30-6 Sat 9:30-3 SUN NO BUYING

203-791-2393 www.onceuponachilddanbury.com

STORE HOURS M-F 9:30-8 Sat 9:30-6 SUN 11-5

Accepting Items 6 Days A Week Toys • Equipment • Clothing (sizes 0M-16Y) • Shoes • Books • And More!

The Newtown Bee - November 16, 2012

Holiday Gift Guide - 23

The Newtown Bee - November 16, 2012

24 - Holiday Gift Guide

Sandy Hook Wine Tasting

Holiday Gift Guide - 25

WINE & LIQUOR Gift s d r a C e l b a l i Ava

OPEN Until 9 PM Mond

Best Wine Store in Newtown

ay-Satu rday Sunday 11-4

— Reader’s Choice Award Newtown Patch

y a d r u t a S y r e Ev Afternoon Great Selection of

FREE Wrap with Purchase!

Happy Holidays From The Friendliest Staff In Town!

CRAFT BEERS

Join us st

Sat., Dec 1

4:00 PM Wine Tasting in Store 6:30 PM Newtown Middle School Carolers outside the store and more...

Collecting for Faith Food Pantry

Have Your Party Delivered!

Free Party Planning • Free local delivery and Pick Up* Free use of our coolers* Party orders delivered “on ice” and ready to be served • Glasses & Cups • Soft Drinks • Mixers • Bartending *Call for details some restrictions apply

102 Church Hill Road

Please consider donating non-perishable food products & household goods.

in the heart of Sandy Hook

203-270-9112

Michael Kerler, Owner Chamber of Commerce of Newtown, Inc

www.SandyHookWine.com

26 - Holiday Gift Guide

The Newtown Bee - November 16, 2012

The winter winds have brought in the season of merriment and celebrations with family and friends.

Brighten your holiday season with festive garlands, inviting wreaths and delightful tree decorations from Shakespeare’s garden.

Warmest Holiday Wishes,

The Staff of Shakespeare’s Garden

Holiday Design Workshop

휨

휨

Saturdays • December 1 &8• 9:30-10:30am – December 1st–

– December 8th –

Decorating Live Wreaths And Bow Making

Filling Your Urns With Live Greens And Bow Making

휨

Please call to let us know you will be coming.

휨

Home Decorating Services Available * Christmas Trees * Unique Gifts * Ornaments * Kissing Balls * Handmade Tabletop Arrangements * Wreaths * Garlands * Cemetery Planters * Poinsettias, Christmas Cactus, Amaryllis Bulbs & Other Plants of the Season a unique flower farm located at the historic Burr Farm

203.775.2214 25 Obtuse Road South, Brookfield, CT Open 7 Days/Week ~ Monday - Saturday: 8 am-5 pm • Sunday: 9am-5pm

The Newtown Bee - November 16, 2012

Holiday Gift Guide - 27

Holiday Dreams Come True at...

GEPPETTO’S TOYS The Area's Largest Collection Of...

Collectible & Playable Dolls, Science Kits, Arts & Crafts, Puzzles & Games, Books, Sports, Sleds, Infant & Toddler Toys and SO MUCH MORE

Friday, December 7th MOONLIGHT MADNESS Open from 9:30 am-10 pm

%*

RECEIVE 20 OFF your entire purchase

Alex Breyer

*Cannot be combined with other offers.

Valid on in store merchandise only.

Calico Critters Corolle

Not valid on red tag sale items, layaways, previous purchases or gift card purchases.

Kaloo Madame Alexander Melissa & Doug

Please no returns on sale days.

Papo

Sorry no gift wrapping on sale days

Playmobil Ravensburger

**Shipping Available via UPS

Schleich

** additional fees apply * discount not applicable on shipping charges

Thomas Railway

682 Main Street South (Sherman Village), Woodbury, CT

(203) 266-4686 OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK (Call for hours)

geppettostoys1

Please visit our website for up to date holiday hours at www.geppettos-toys.com

28 - Holiday Gift Guide

The Newtown Bee - November 16, 2012

FOR JOLLY FEET Holiday Sale NOW In Progress! (on select models)

Gift Certificates Available

NEW BALANCE BETHEL

83 STONY HILL ROAD, BETHEL, CT (203) 739-0214 • www.nbbethel.com

The Newtown Bee - November 16, 2012

Holiday Gift Guide - 29

D ON MAIN STREET O W N

Church Hill and Queen Commons Newtown, CT Tel: 203.426.5253 The Southbury Green Shopping Center Southbury, CT Tel: 203.267.7800

Exceptional Cards & Holiday Gifts

36 Bank Street New Milford, CT Tel: 860.210.0110

We are proud to carry Made in USA products

Stylish and Affordable Gifts Purchase any 2 Alex and Ani Bracelets And receive a

$

10

Store Gift Certificate Newtown and New Milford Locations Only Offer Good Nov. 16th through Dec. 24th, 2012.

Cannot be combined with any other offers

$ BEADS Buy 3 beads Get 1 Sterling Silver Bead

FREE One coupon per customer Offer Good Nov. 16 through Dec. 24, 2012 Not to be combined with any other offer.

Down On Main Street

$

5 Off

Any Purchase of $25 or more One coupon per customer Offer Good Nov. 16 through Dec. 24, 2012 Not to be combined with any other offer.

Down On Main Street

Only 38 Shopping Days Left!

10 Off Any Purchase of $50 or more

One coupon per customer Offer expires Dec. 24, 2012 Not to be combined with any other offer.

Down On Main Street

$

Any Crabtree & Evelyn Purchase of $20 or more

Any Baby Product of $25 or more

One coupon per customer Offer Good Nov. 16 through Dec. 24, 2012 Not to be combined with any other offer.

One coupon per customer Offer Good Nov. 16 through Dec. 24, 2012 Not to be combined with any other offer.

Down On Main Street

Down On Main Street

$ $

3 Off

3 Off 5 Off

5 Off

Purchase of $20 or more

Any Purchase of $25 or more on all our Unique Jewelry

One coupon per customer Offer Good Nov. 16th through Dec. 24, 2012 Cannot be combined with any other offers.

Down On Main Street

One coupon per customer Offer Good Nov. 16th through Dec. 24, 2012 Cannot be combined with any other offers Down On Main Street

any Tokyo Milk

$

$

5 Off

any $25 purchase or more of The Beatles merchandise One coupon per customer Offer Good Nov. 16th through Dec. 24, 2012 Cannot be combined with any other offers Down On Main Street

Great Selection Of Stocking Stuffers

30 - Holiday Gift Guide

The Newtown Bee - November 16, 2012

Rushing around with holiday shopping?

Hurrying home to decorate the tree?

We’re right off the highway…

-OUT TAKE r o -I N DINE

PAPA AL’S PIZZA • PASTA • SUBS

Authentic New York Style Pizza Appetizers, Soups, Salads, Burgers, Hot and Cold Subs, Focaccia Sandwiches, Wraps and Panini, Pasta Dishes Kid’s Menu • Lunch and Dinner Open Monday Through Saturday

203-426-2323

For Busy Santas!

FIN D COU PON OU R S ON B IG Y R E B ETH E L CE IPTS

papaalspizza.com

23 Barnabas Road, Newtown, CT 06470 • Located off Exit 9, I-84 in Hawleyville Center Delivery With: vroomservicenow.com or call 203-270-FOOD (3663)

The Holidays Are Coming!

We have everything you need for your Holiday Parties and the Perfect Gift C Dis ase c Ava ounts ilab le!

Toll Free: 877-WINE-DEN Local: 203-426-0104 Permitee: Carlos Goncalves

In-Store Pick-Up Free Local Delivery National Delivery Available

23 Barnabas Rd Newtown, CT I-84 West/East Exit 9

Wishing Everyone “Happy Holidays” You’ll find us in the Hawleyville Plaza, 23 Barnabas Rd, Newtown Next to the Hawleyville Post Office, off Exit 9, Rt I-84

The Newtown Bee - November 16, 2012

Holiday Gift Guide - 31

32 - Holiday Gift Guide

The Newtown Bee - November 16, 2012

EVERYTING NEWTOWN

61 Church Hill Rd., Newtown

e r e G t i n s ’ g n f o r s o a m e S Newtown Hardware & Everything Newtown

Thank you for your support and for shopping locally!

Everything Everything NEWTOWN HARDWARE 203-426-4076 “Our First Priority is You, Our Customer!”

Newtown Newtown M Ma orrk eet

Mike Sorrentino

G if t s, A p pa

r el

Owner

&

Gifts For The Whole Family

Newtown, Sandy Hook & CT Souvenirs & Clothing

Dewalt Power Tools * Schrade Knives Swiss Army Knives * Grill Tools Bird Seed & Feeders

Holiday Decor • Bella Taylor Bags Melissa & Doug Toys Puzzles • Balloon Bouquets Candles • Hostess Gifts Boxed “Newtown” Holiday Cards

Don’t forget the stockings!

Black Friday, Nov. 23rd Mention this ad on Black Friday ONLY & get 25% OFF entire purchase.

GIFT (excludes consignment’s)

203.270.7130

Batteries * Tools * Flashlights

And for Your Holiday Decorating…

Tree Stands * Holiday Tree Lights Door Mats * Glue Guns

CARDS AVAILABLE

Bundled Wood For The Yule Fire!

Mon. - Fri. 10 - 6, Sat. 10 - 5, Sun. 11 - 3 (We’re just minutes from your home)

Open Mon.-Fri. 8-6 Sat. 8-5 • Sun. 9-3

The Newtown Bee - November 16, 2012

Holiday Gift Guide - 33

DOrazio Sisters Bakery —The Taste of New York

Santa Doesn’t Deliver These!

Assorted Cookies

NY Style Cheesecakes Toppings: Walnut, toffee bits, fudge, lemon, blueberry, strawberry, mixed berry, pecans, caramel, cherry, pineapple & peach Cheesecake Flavors: Oreo, Pumpkin, Fudge Swirl, Peanutbuttercup, Amaretto, Irish Bailey

Almond biscotti, sesame seed, pignoli, linzer tarts, iced lemon, tri-color, walnut butter balls, tadalles, anisette biscotti, raspberry & apricot sandwiches

Fudge and Chocolate Covered Treats!!!

Apples, strawberries, bananas, pretzels, apricots, fruit jellies, nuts, raisins, biscotti, etc…

Gift Ideas

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34 - Holiday Gift Guide

The Newtown Bee - November 16, 2012

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The Newtown Bee - November 16, 2012

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The Newtown Bee - November 16, 2012

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The Newtown Bee - November 16, 2012

Holiday Gift Guide - 37

38 - Holiday Gift Guide

The Newtown Bee - November 16, 2012

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The Newtown Bee - November 16, 2012

Holiday Gift Guide - 39

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40 - Holiday Gift Guide

The Newtown Bee - November 16, 2012

Selecting And Caring For The Perfect Christmas Tree To some, Christmas just is not Christmas without a real Christmas tree.

The following are a few hints, provided

by The Connecticut Christmas Tree Growers Association, to help you select and then care for that perfect tree from a Connecticut Christmas tree farm. *Decide on where you will place the tree. Will it be seen from all sides or will some of it be up against a wall? Be sure to choose a spot away from heat sources, such as TVs, fireplaces, radiators, and air ducts. Place the tree clear of doors. *Measure the height and width of the space you have available in the room where the tree will be placed. There is nothing worse than bringing a tree indoors only to find it is too tall. Take a tape measure with you to measure your chosen tree and bring a cord to tie your tree to the car. *Remember that trees sold on retail lots in urban areas may have come from out of state and may have been exposed to drying winds in transit. They may have been cut weeks earlier. Buy trees early before the best trees have been sold and where trees are shaded.

Ask the retailer whether their trees are delivered once at the beginning of the season or are they delivered at different times during the selling season. *Choose a fresh tree. A fresh tree will have a healthy green appearance with few browning needles. Needles should be flexible and not fall off if you run a branch through your hand.

Raise the tree a few inches off the ground and drop it on the butt end.

Very few green needles should drop off the tree. It is normal for a few inner brown needles to drop off. *Remember to choose a tree that fits

where it is to be displayed. For example, if the tree is displayed in front of a large window, then all four sides should look as good as possible. If the tree is displayed against a wall, then a tree with three good sides would be okay. A tree with two good sides would work well in a corner. The more perfect a tree, the more expensive it is. *Make sure the handle or base of the tree is straight and 6–8 inches long so it will fit easily into the stand. *Do a little research on different Christmas tree types. Some Christmas tree varieties will hold needles longer than others.

The following are a few tips on how to keep your tree fresh throughout the holiday season: *If you are not putting the tree up right away, store it in an unheated garage or some other area out of the wind and

cold (freezing) temperatures. Make a fresh one-inch cut on the butt end and place the tree in a bucket of warm water. *When you decide to bring the tree indoors, make another fresh one-inch cut and place the tree in a sturdy stand that holds at least one gallon of water, or a general rule is one quart of water for every inch of diameter of the trunk. *Be sure to keep the water level about the base of the tree. If the base dries out, resin will form over the cut end and the tree will not be able to absorb water and will dry out quickly. Commercially prepared mixes, aspirin, sugar, and other additives added to the water are not necessary. Research has shown that plain water will keep a tree fresh. *Check all Christmas tree lights for worn electrical cords. Use UL- approved electrical decorations and cords. Unplug tree lights at night.

*Miniature lights produce less heat and reduce the drying effect on the tree. *It’s a nuisance to water a Christmas tree once it is decorated with a tree skirt and surrounded by presents. Here is an easy solution, supplied by Gene and Marian Anderson of Guse Hardware (and The Minneapolis Star Tribune) in Minneapolis: Buy a funnel and a 3- to 4-foot length of vinyl tubing to slip over the funnel outlet. Fasten the funnel/tube with a twist-tie or twine in an out-of-the-way but reachable part of the tree. Extend the tubing down the tree trunk and into the tree stand reservoir. Now you can water the tree through the funnel without bending over or disturbing the tree skirt or its ornaments. *Take down the tree before it dries out.

Many fresh-cut trees if properly cared for will last at least five weeks before drying out. *Recycle your tree after Christmas.

Many communities will pick up trees and turn them into chips.

Or put the tree in your back yard and place bread and suet among the branches for the birds.

Connecticut Christmas Tree Growers Association was organized in 1960 to encourage the development of the Christmas tree industry in the state of Connecticut.

Its website, CTChristmasTree.org, is maintained for CCTGA members and for the public who buy real trees at Christmas. The site includes information about local tree farms, where to purchase trees, and how to care for them. The site also provides a list of officers, members, and membership information.

‘Holiday In Bloom’ At Osborne Homestead Museum DERBY — The Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (DEEP) announces that for the 2012 winter holiday season each room of Osborne Homestead Museum will showcase a seasonal plant connected to holiday folklore and tradition.

As they have done for more than 20 years, volunteers create the beautiful holiday decorations. Volunteers representing Ansonia Garden Club, Olde Ripton Garden Club, The Garden Club of Orange, Naugatuck Garden Club, Roxbury/Bridgewater Garden Club, Derby Garden Society, Pomperaug Valley Garden Club, Oxford Garden Club, and Ye Olde Kellogg Garden Society are again creating decorations for this year’s presentation, “Holiday In Bloom.”

Visitors can enjoy the holidays from a new perspective. Featured plants will include poinsettia, pine, Christmas rose, laurel, rosemary/herbs, holly, ivy, mistletoe, and pomegranate.

The museum was the home of conservationist, business woman, and philanthropist Frances Osborne Kellogg (1876-1956), who lived in the house her entire life.

The exhibit will be on view from November 23 through December 16, with visiting hours and guided tours available Thursday through Sunday, from 10 am to 4 pm.

On Friday evenings, November 30, December 7, and December 14, the museum will present “twilight tours,” highlighting the special glow of the decorations by candlelight from 4 to 6:30 pm. Group tours are also available; reservations are requested.

The museum is at 500 Hawthorne Avenue, off Route 34; telephone 203-734-2513.

The Newtown Bee - November 16, 2012

Holiday Gift Guide - 41

42 - Holiday Gift Guide

The Newtown Bee - November 16, 2012

Holiday Food Safety Tips Great food is the centerpiece of *Cook: Temperature matters! any holiday celebration, and pracBacteria can survive if foods are ticing safe food handling in the not cooked to a safe internal kitchen is an important part of holtemperature. Even an experiiday meal preparation. There are enced cook cannot tell if food is certain steps you can take to keep cooked safely by how it looks, friends and family safe from food so use a food thermometer to poisoning. ensure you are cooking turkeys, “The kitchen can be chaotic and ham, egg dishes, and other it can be challenging to keep food foods to a safe internal tempersafety top of mind when dealing ature. with a whole holiday meal, from Download a temperature chart turkey to trimmings,” cautions at www.HolidayFoodSafety.org.

Shelley Feist, executive director of *Chill: Holiday celebrations the nonprofit Partnership for Food are great… and even better if Safety Education. you have delicious leftovers.

According to the US Centers for Just remember to enjoy them Disease Control and Prevention, within four days. one in six Americans will get sick Bacteria spreads fastest at temfrom dangerous foodborne bacteria peratures between 40 and 140 this year. But these crucial safety degrees Fahrenheit, so chill tips can help you create a safe and food promptly — within two tasty holiday celebration: hours — at a refrigerator tem*Clean: Prevent the spread of bacperature of 40 degrees or below. teria by keeping a clean kitchen and Appliance thermometers are washing hands. inexpensive and can help you Cutting boards, dishes, utensils, monitor your refrigerator’s temand countertops should be washed perature. with hot water and soap after Holiday celebrations are great, and even better if you have delicious leftovers that have been *Bring on the Bird: Learning preparing each food item, and properly stored, prepared, and handled. how to cook a turkey safely before going on to the next. Keep may be one of the biggest holiplenty of clean cloth towels or paper towels handy for cleaning surfaces and drying day meal challenges. hands.

Never thaw your turkey on the counter. Turkeys are best thawed in the fridge. So Enforce a strict hand washing policy for all holiday kitchen helpers. Use warm water allot plenty of real estate to your turkey before your celebration. and soap for 20 seconds before and after handling food.

If you are going to stuff your turkey, stuff safely. Cook stuffing to a minimum Rinse fresh fruits and vegetables under running tap water just before eating or prepar- temperature of 165 degrees, whether inside or outside of the bird. ing. Rub firm-skinned produce under running tap water or scrub with a clean vegVisit www.HolidayFoodSafety.org, for a complete guide to the safe handling, etable brush while rinsing with running tap water. preparation, serving, and leftover storage of your holiday turkey. You will also *Separate: Cross-contamination is how bacteria spreads. Keep eggs, raw meat, poul- find guidelines on turkey size, how to thaw a turkey, and cooking times. try, seafood, and their juices away from ready-to-eat foods, like salad ingredients. Using By taking precautions to prepare food safely, you can ensure that bacteria will —StatePoint Media separate cutting boards is one way to reduce opportunities for cross-contamination. not be guests at your holiday celebration.

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This holiday season, smart shoppers are considering not only the cost of their purchases, but hidden expenses that can arise later, such as unexpected repairs, replacement costs, accessories and more.

With a little advance planning and by following these shopping tips, you can stay on budget well into the new year: *Shop around.

Just because one retailer has it “on sale” does not mean it is cheaper than another’s “regular” price.

And if something is on sale in a store across town, calculate your time and cost to travel there. Call ahead to make sure the item is in stock, not in “limited quantities only” or “not available in all stores.” *Save those receipts.

Check the retailer’s return policy.

Note if there are time limits or restocking fees. Always save receipts and get gift receipts to include with presents. *Protection packages are savings plans.

Extended service contracts and cellphone insurance can be a key part of a holiday “savings” plan, to save on future unexpected costs that could hurt your overall budget. Beyond simply extending the original warranty, good service contracts offer free troubleshooting and protect against accidental damage and normal wear and tear.

For cellphones and mobile devices, choose insurance protecting against loss, theft and damage, especially if you have kids or travel frequently.

“Especially in these times, investing a few dollars now in service contracts for major purchases like expensive toys,

consumer electronics, appliances and sporting goods is essential to avoid unexpected costs for replacing items that are accidentally broken or need costly repairs,” said Jamie Breneman, a spokesperson for NEW Customer Service Companies, Inc, an independent administrator of buyer protection services. “Shoppers increasingly are finding these plans are a great way to gain peace of mind and enjoy products longer.” *Stock up on accessories.

Make sure you have purchased all needed accessories, like batteries, memory cards, connectors and wires. Check the box or with the store to learn what is needed for your gift. This way you will not lose precious time or money returning to the store. *Bulk up.

Buy in bulk when possible. If you are a parent loaded with toys that drain batteries fast, save by buying them in bulk. Or, if you have several electronics buffs on your birthday or Valentine’s gift lists, stock up now and take advantage of any sales. *Avoid costly DIY projects.

Don’t ruin your holiday with a hole in the living room wall. Avoid do-it-yourself installation errors resulting in costly home repairs or product damage.

Check if delivery and installation is available, especially on large electronics or heavy items. Make sure such services are timely, so not to get stuck without your latest holiday purchase up and running.

By following these tips, smart shoppers can not only find perfect gifts, but will save on time and money — and make sure holiday purchases are protected and enjoyed for years to come.

The Newtown Bee - November 16, 2012

Holiday Gift Guide - 43

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44 - Holiday Gift Guide

The Newtown Bee - November 16, 2012

Christmas Tree Committee Seeking Bright Idea

BY NANCY K. CREVIER Diana Johnson and Janet Woycik of the Ram Pasture Christmas Tree Lighting Committee are looking for a bright idea.

“We need a good suggestion on how to best light our luminarias that surround Hawley Pond and line Elm Drive,” said Ms Johnson.

Every year the committee places hundreds of sand-filled, cardboard luminarias to light the way to the Christmas tree in Ram Pasture when darkness falls on the eve of the tree lighting, which this year takes place at 7 pm, Friday, November 30. The luminarias are usually lit by wax candles. (Other festivities begin at 6:30 pm that evening, as they do every year.)

“The candles are beautiful, but we are concerned about safety, and in past years have been asked to find a better way to light them,” Ms Johnson said.

Two years ago, the committee tried battery operated candles — “We even tried putting two in a bag,” said Ms Johnson — but they cast only a wan light.

“We are hoping that someone can tell us a better way to light the luminarias, without using candles,” she said.

The cost for the alternative must be in the same ballpark as the current wax candles, she added. “We spend about 59 cents for each candle,” Ms Johnson said.

Ms Johnson and Ms Woycik urge any-

Members of the Ram Pasture Christmas Tree Lighting Committee are hoping the public will help them with a new idea to light the luminarias that surround Hawley Pond and adjacent roads the evening of the town’s tree lighting. The Ram Pasture event will be the first of three consecutive nights of tree lightings in town this year, running November 30-December 2.

—Bee file photo one with a brilliant plan to contact them at dianajohnson5418@yahoo.com, as soon as possible. Please include the best way for them to get in touch, should the idea be one that lights them up.

The tree lighting event traditionally opens with caroling and live music led by student groups from Newtown High School, and visits from Santa and Mrs

Claus. Hot chocolate and donuts are served following the lighting of the tree.

Two More Tree Lightings In addition to the Ram Pasture tree lighting ceremony on November 30, Newtown will host two more tree lighting events that weekend.

The 11th Annual Sandy Hook Tree

Lighting will be Saturday, December 1.

Sponsored by Sandy Hook Organization for Prosperity (SHOP), events will begin at 4 pm, leading to the lighting of the tree in Sandy Hook Glen, 2 Washington Avenue, at 6. Local shops and businesses will be offering holiday treats and gifts, face painting, karaoke at the tree, 3-D glasses to view the tree, jingle bell bracelets, eggnog and gingerbread latte samples, live music, hot cider, desserts, balloons, dining specials, and a raffle for one boy’s bicycle and one girl’s bicycle.

SHOP is asking attendees to bring a donation for FAITH Food Pantry that evening. Collection bins will be hosted

by The Children’s Adventure Center and at PJ’s Laundromat.

Newtown Middle School Carolers will be at the tree that evening, continuing the caroling after the tree is lit for the season.

Also, Hawleyville will host its 3rd Annual Tree Lighting event on Sunday, December 2.

A committee from Stony Hill Four Corners Association is working on the details, but did confirm that this year’s event will run from 5:30 to 6:30 pm and also that it will be dedicated to “two longtime friends of Hawleyville,” Robert “Bucky” Dean and Charles Speidel, both of whom passed away within the last year.

Break Some Rules And Have Fun With Holiday Entertaining

Good Or Bad?

A visit to Santa Claus is supposed to be a fun outing for children of all ages, but all of us have seen photos of children who were not thrilled to be sitting on the bearded man’s lap. Have you or your child(ren) ever been filled with dread when it was time to visit Santa? Do you have a photograph of your unfortunate experience with Santa Claus as a child? or have you captured a less than rapturous Santa moment with your own children? Please consider sharing stories and photos with The Newtown Bee for a special holiday tale of (Santa) woe, at Nancy@thebee.com, subject line Bad Santa.

—Bee file photo

(BPT) — “People are always getting ready to live but never living.” —Ralph Waldo Emerson This year as thousands of details that surround holiday gatherings threaten to ruin your holiday memories, take a few moments and think about how much nicer it would be if you could be enjoying the special moments with your family and friends. Instead, each year you spend countless hours in the kitchen, slaving over a hot stove while your guests enjoy themselves in the next room.

Imagine if you could spend more time with them, sharing stories and enjoying their company.

It can be done. It might be time to tweak some traditions, take a few shortcuts, and rethink your personal holiday entertaining rules. There are many options to help you entertain in style without all the hassle — and you will still get rave reviews.

Planning ahead can help you reduce stress and give you back your holidays. Consider these five easy steps to simplify holiday entertaining: 1. Fill your freezer with tasty treats to pull out at a moment’s notice. Premade appetizers, entrees, sides, and desserts that you can thaw, bake, and serve are lifesavers during the holiday season. Many companies make it easy for you to have tasty holiday meals with minimal effort and maximum flavor. They do all the preparation; you get the glory.

How would your guests enjoy this menu?

Caramelized onion and feta pastry kisses, tender Chateaubriand, creamy mashed potatoes with porcini mushrooms, and a chocolate hazelnut ganache cake for dessert. Or how about a delectable menu of baby brie bites with cranberry chutney, paired with Beef Wellington, twice-baked potatoes, and a sour cherry peach tart?

It will look like you spent days preparing this feast and you will be the only one to know it took a few clicks, a look in your freezer that morning, and a few minutes to get the meal on the table.

2. Rethink traditions. Just because your mother and her mother spent two days

preparing the Thanksgiving turkey dinner, it is okay to give yourself permission to create new traditions that fit your lifestyle while tempting the taste buds of the special people in your life.

Want to change things up? How about a hickory smoked spiral sliced ham for Thanksgiving this year? Using a fully cooked, slowsmoked ham as the star attraction from the traditional turkey dinner will cut your preparation time on Thanksgiving by hours, and you will still have plenty of leftovers to enjoy after a day of bargain hunting on Black Friday.

3. Use free web guides to pair the perfect wine with your meal. If you want to create the perfect wine pairing for your holiday meal, there are great guides out there. They have done all the work for you, so relax and enjoy the compliments you will receive for making a wise decision when it comes to the perfect palate pleasers.

4. Rent holiday entertainment items. There is no need to store holiday entertaining items you may only use once a year. Many companies rent holiday serving items, china, wine glasses, tablecloths, and more. The items come ready to use and when you are finished with them, you simply send them back.

No need to worry about storage space or washing linens.

5. Think potluck for entertaining. People are more than willing to bring a dish to pass for holiday gatherings. Try a simple request like, “We’re going to try something new this year. I’d like you to bring your favorite appetizer, side dish, or dessert. I’ll provide the entrée and beverages.”

Few things are more social than a potluck meal. This allows you to get together with your favorite people without doing all the work yourself. Do a little planning up front and you will have a wonderful meal where everyone can take a bow.

So this year, break some rules and live your holidays to the fullest. Just remember the words of the late Katharine Hepburn: “If you obey all the rules, you’ll miss all the fun.”

The Newtown Bee - November 16, 2012

Holiday Gift Guide - 45

Easy Ways To Support The Troops During The Holidays Supporting the troops is an important thing to do, but sometimes it is hard to figure out how.

Here are four easy ways to thank those who keep us safe every single day, even if you do not personally know someone serving. And with the holidays coming up, it is the perfect time of year to do it, as many of service men and women are away from family.

Volunteer Your Time Former service members stateside should also be recognized.

Show your appreciation for those who have helped protect our country by volunteering at your local Veterans Affairs hospital or nursing home this season, even if only for a few hours. You are sure to meet some fascinating men and women, and you will be bringing holiday cheer to those who may not have many visitors.

If you can find the time, consider arranging a fundraiser to raise money to buy phone cards for the troops or even to purchase flowers to bring with you when you visit the veterans’ hospital or home.

Similarly, you can volunteer to help their families at home by helping with yard work or running errands.

Foster A Pet Foster a soldier’s pet while he or she serves overseas by getting connected with a military foster agency. When servicemen and women are called for duty, the first and best option in arranging for the care of their companion animals is to find a family member, friend, or neighbor who can temporarily take in the animals. But this option is not available to everyone, especially to military personnel stationed far from home. Shelters and private groups, such as Dogs on Deployment (DogsOnDeployment.org), Mili-

tary Pets FOSTER Project (www.netpets.org/militarypet/foster), and Operation Noble Foster (OperationNobleFoster.org.) can able to help place pets in foster homes temporarily. Contact these organizations to learn how to foster a pet for someone in the Armed Forces.

Give Blood Giving blood through an organization like the American Red Cross can actually help troops hundreds and thousands of miles away.

Military units may depend on rush shipments of blood during times of need, and maintaining an ample supply of all blood types is crucial. Host a blood drive at your workplace or community center, encouraging others to give the gift of life this holiday season.

To find a blood drive or donation location near you, visit www.redcrossblood.org.

Be Vocal Encouraging others to remember our deployed troops is one of the most wide-reaching ways to support the active military during the holidays.

By reminding neighbors that our men and women overseas may need a boost of holiday cheer, you could touch hundreds of service members’ lives this season.

Talk to people, post on Facebook, send out Tweets, or include a reminder in your holiday cards.

Although the holidays can be a difficult time for deployed service members and their families, there are countless ways you can show your gratitude and appreciation this season. Whether it is a personalized gift, visit to a veteran, or blood donation, you can give back to those who give so much to our country.

—StatePoint Media

Tips To Enhance Holiday Meals With Flavor (BPT) — Thanksgiving and Christmas meals often incorporate a lot of traditional foods and flavors, which as a host, may become a bit boring. But when you have friends and family visiting for several days, there are plenty of opportunities to shine with new flavors and interesting meals.

As a host, embrace all of the meals you will be serving, which provides you with an excellent chance to show off your culinary skills. To help plan the menus and entertain your guests during their entire visit, Gaby Dalkin (What’s Gaby Cooking) and Lindsay and Taylor Landis (Love and Olive Oil) have tips to make everything much easier. Here are some tips to make holidays meals a memorable time: *Assess your ingredients — including

your spice cabinet — to ensure all holiday essentials like cinnamon, cloves, vanilla bean, nutmeg, flour, and sugar are available, and fresh, for all recipes. *Choose recipes and plan ingredients ahead of time. Purchase dry goods at least a week ahead, and perishable items a day or two before guests arrive so you have everything ready, without stress. *Make nonperishable snacks ahead of time and store them in containers to bring out when needed. Try this recipe from Ms Dalkin to keep your guests happy: Sweet and Spice Roasted Nuts 1 C raw whole cashews 1 C raw whole walnuts 1 C raw whole almonds 1 C raw pepitas

1 egg white 1 tsp water ½ C white sugar ¼ tsp sea salt ½ tsp cayenne pepper ½ tsp ground cinnamon Preheat the oven to 350° F. Line a baking sheet with a piece of parchment paper and set it aside. Combine the cashews, walnuts, almonds, and pepitas in a large bowl and toss to combine.

Whisk together the egg white, water, sugar, salt, cayenne pepper, and cinnamon. Drizzle the wet mixture over the nuts and toss to combine, making sure they are evenly coated. Transfer the nuts to the baking sheet and spread in an even layer.

Roast for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally. Remove the nuts from the oven and

separate the nuts as they cool. Store in an airtight container and serve as needed. *Add a surprising and special touch to cocktails. Slice a vanilla bean in half and drop it into a bottle of vodka or bourbon several days prior to the arrival of your guests. It will add a delicious and warm flavor to all cocktails.

Don’t forget about the children at your gathering either.

“I always create interesting cocktails for my seasonal entertaining, and this year, I’m making something special for the kids,” says Lindsay Landis. Her holiday drink gives a festive gingerbread twist to the classic root beer float. Instead of using root beer with ice cream, she instead uses vanilla cream soda and spiced molasses syrup to make the drink taste just like liquid gingerbread.

46 - Holiday Gift Guide

The Newtown Bee - November 16, 2012

Directory Of Advertisers ART SUPPLIES/FRAMING

FLORIST/GIFTS

JEWELRY/GIFTS

Koenig FrameWorks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .11

Newtown Florist . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .14

AUTOMOTIVE/MARINE

FURNITURE/GIFTS

Jensen Tire, Auto & Marine . . . . . . . . . . .17

Weathered Way . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .45 Wood Bin . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .38

Down On Main Street . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .29 Gift Cottage . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .16 Jewelry Café . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .40 Krutolow Jewelers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .18 Gayle O’Neill Fine Jewelry . . . . . . . . . . . . .7 Quality Gem . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .37

GARDEN/GIFTS

KARATE/FITNESS

Shakespeare’s Garden . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .26

Extreme Fitness Martial Arts . . . . . . . . . .15

BARBER Hero For Men . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5

BUY & SELL GOLD, ANTIQUES & COLLECTIBLES CT Gold & Silver . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10

CHILD CARE/SCHOOL The Learning Experience . . . . . . . . . . . . .13

Wild Birds Unlimited . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .16

GIFTS Everything Newtown . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .32 Queen Street Gifts & Treats . . . . . . . . . . .19

MUSICAL INSTRUMENTS & INSTRUCTION Route 7 Music . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .41

RESTAURANTS Papa Al’s . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .30

CHILDREN’S CLOTHING/GIFTS Once Upon A Child . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .22

COMMUNITY EVENTS Housatonic Valley Waldorf School . . . . . . .3 Newtown Youth & Family Services . . . . .48 Sandy Hook Tree Lighting . . . . . . . . . . .8, 9

GOURMET FOOD/BAKERY D’Orazio Sisters Bakery . . . . . . . . . . . . . .33

SPORTS

UK Gourmet . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .21

Golf Quest . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .34

HAIR SALON/SPA

SPORTS SHOES & APPAREL

A New Beginning . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .35 Ricci’s Salon . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4, 5 Marsha Scott’s Hair Loss Clinic

FACIALS/MASSAGES/SPA A New Beginning . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .35 Avancé Esthétiques . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2 Massage Envy . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .36 Spa Naturelle . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .20

STATIONERY/GIFTS Truly Yours . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .40

For Women . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .42 Top Of The Class . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5

TOYS/BICYCLES

Thomas E. Salon . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .47

Geppetto’s . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .27 The Toy Tree . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .39 Toy Journey . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6

HARDWARE/GIFTS Newtown Hardware . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .32

FITNESS Club Newfit . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .23 Newtown Youth Academy . . . . . . . . . . . .31

New Balance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .28

HEARTH/HOME DÉCOR/GIFTS Black Swan . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .12

WINE/LIQUOR Hawleyville Wine & Liquor . . . . . . . . . . .30 Sandy Hook Wine & Liquor . . . . . . .24, 25 The Wine Den . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .30

The Newtown Bee - November 16, 2012

Holiday Gift Guide - 47

Rejuvenate Your Hair For The Holiday Season Creative color personalized to fit you and your lifestyle.

Foiling done dimensionally with multicolors for a more natural and softer look on all lengths of hair.

Perming on all hair types and lengths, short to long with all finishes. Wavy cuts, spiral curls and bouncy curls.

Cutting done person by person, individually to suit you.

Whether it is a bob, shag, one length or spiky, it is done expertly at Thomas E. Salon.

Discover Thomas E. Salon for better styling no matter what your hair texture.

Have feel good hair for the holiday season and always at Thomas E. Salon.

Our Gift to You 50% Off the Face Value All Gift Certificates Sold Now Through Dec. 24th And All Stocking Stuffers 25% Off

203-270-1262

HOURS Mon 9-5 Wed 9-5 Thurs & Fri 9-8 Sat 9-5 (Closed Sun & Tues)

87 South Main Street (Route 25), Newtown Making Beauty in Newtown for 25 Years

48 - Holiday Gift Guide

The Newtown Bee - November 16, 2012

PRESENTS

the 27th Annual

[ÉÄ|wtç Yxáà|ätÄ to benefit Newtown Youth & Family Services

Main Street | Newtown, CT Sunday, December 2, 2012 11:00 AM - 4:00 PM Historic House Tour— Back by popular demand! Gingerbread House Contest, Festival of Trees, Victorian Tea, The Amazing Scavenger Hunt, Nutcracker Suite Ballet (Noon & 2 pm), Service of Lessons & Carols (2 pm) and Holiday Craft Fair

TICKETS ON SALE AT: C.H. Booth Library; Everything Newtown and Select Newtown Savings Bank Locations

For more information call: 203-270-4335 or visit www.newtownyouthandfamilyservices.org