Holiday Gift Guide 2023

2023

Holiday Gift Guide

HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE 2023

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The Northern Virginia Daily & The Winchester Star

JEFF TAYLOR/THE WINCHESTER STAR Mountain Trails owner Garry Green is shown with a large selection of shoes for hiking, trail running, rock climbing, and more at the store’s Winchester location on the Loudoun Street Mall in downtown Winchester.

Make tracks to Mountain Trails for great gifts for the outdoorsy types

By WENDY GROVE KEDZIERSKI Special to The Winchester Star

I

f you’re looking for a gift for an outdoorsy type, Mountain Trails has you covered — quite literally. According to the retail outlet’s website: “We unapologetically carry the best apparel brands in the outdoor industry, built for taming the craziest weather the world can throw at you.”

Owner Garry Green says the outdoors industry is “one of the fastestgrowing segments of the American economy.” That’s why he’s got a store in Winchester, one in Front Royal and is in the process of opening another in Davis, W.Va. — three regions teeming with activities for outdoor enthusiasts.

“Mountain Trails is part of an industry known as specialty outdoor retail,” says Green. “Which translates to the fact that many of the products in Mountain Trails are not available to any other retailer in the area.”

Winchester, the flagship store, is 4,000-square-feet of merchandise for the hiker, mountain biker, mountain climber, camper and more. Green carefully chooses reputable brands that create gear that lasts and strives to supply products that offer sustainability in a sincere effort to maintain an ecological balance.

The Front Royal store is located just off the Appalachian Trail and TRAILS continued on PAGE 4

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HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE 2023

Under $16 a bottle: A 95 Point Bordeaux

Under $35 a bottle:

A Top 100 Wine of the Year & 95 Point Malbec

Free: Your local wine merchant’s

wet shoes after tracking down more wines for you to enjoy

Let us help you find a wine to enjoy!

• Value wines from over 13 countries • 40+ Virginia Wines • Come see our new MAGNUM collection.

• Over 75 cellar worthy bottles capable of aging in your cellar 10+ years.

Amarone, Pinotage, Carmenere, Southern & Northern Rhone, Burgundy, Swartland, Mosel, Mendoza, Languedoc, Tuscany, Napa, Walla Walla, Rioja, Ribera del Duero

— IMPORTED CHEESE & GOURMET CHOCOLATES — Order online and pickup in store at www.timelesswines.com 8043 Main St, Middletown, VA Email us at timeless@timelesswines.com

Open Every Day 11am-6pm

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HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE 2023

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TRAILS continued from PAGE 2

provides thru-hikers with supplies and gear including clothing, tents, backpacks, stoves, trekking poles, maps and more.

sheep of the same name whose coats have adapted over time to help them survive in extreme environments.

A variety of water filtration systems Green is hoping to open the store in can be found on the store’s water wall so you and your fellow hikers Davis, W.Va., by Christmas. can confidently drink from streams and avoid lugging the extra weight Not only does Green offer topof containers of water. quality merchandise, he also chooses staff who have firsthand Worried about a bear attacking knowledge of outdoor activities so your bestie? Buy them some bear customers have passionate peoplespray. Other personal security items resources to guide their purchases. are available as well to repel insects or people with ill intent.

Their employees have experience in backpacking, mountain biking, If you want to get lost in nature hiking, mountain climbing, without losing your way, Mountain bouldering. They also have a Trails carries maps to guide physical therapist-intraining you. Their waterproof Purple working at the store, a teacher/ Lizard maps cover more than a hiker, a dog enthusiast. million acres of public land in Mountain Trails offers gifts at many Pennsylvania, West Virginia, price points. Here are just a handful Virginia, Ohio and Puerto Rico.

You can start locally by picking up of possibilities: a Shenandoah National Park North A shoe wall includes dozens of and South two-pack. options for serious trekkers: hiking shoes and boots that offer support, Does your four-footed friend join you on the trail? Check out the dog comfort and traction. wall for harnesses, pet flotation Don’t forget socks. Their Darn devices, dog boots and Musher’s Tough socks may cost a bit Secret paw protection wax. more, but are guaranteed for life.

The rock climbing wall offers Smartwool socks feature ethically gloves, helmets, ropes, harnesses sourced wool and tout “comfort and other gear. Arthur Kearns, JEFF TAYLOR/THE WINCHESTER STAR meets function” for hikers to “Go far. Feel good.” Minus33 socks and one of Mountain Trails’ original A full wall of rock climbing gear on display at Mountain Trails’ Winchester store. Mountain TRAILS continued on PAGE 5 Trails also has a Front Royal location. base layers use Merino wool from

We can handle your Special Deliveries!

Shipping through UPS, FedEx & USPS Additional services available

POSTAL BUSINESS CENTER 524 N. Royal Ave., Front Royal

WEST OAKS FARM MARKET & EVENT VENUE Our Small Business Saturday Holiday Vendor Fair is on November 25th from 8-2pm.

Still openings available for Christmas Parties in our Event Venue

Holiday Shopping at West Oaks

540-635-7997

Gift items, baked goods, local VA products, great for gifts and family gatherings. Large selections of items including wine and beer

postalbusinesscenter@gmail.com

4305 Middle Road, Winchester • 540.539.8175 www.westoaksfarm-market.com

M-F 8:30am-5:30pm • Sat 9am-1pm

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HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE 2023

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ANNUAL TRADITIONS! It’s the most wonderful time of the year for classic movies, like Elf, The Polar Express and Planes, Trains and Automobiles.

Check the Alamo website for showtimes and tickets.

GIFT CARDS! Alamo Drafthouse Cinema Gift Cards are the perfect gift or stocking-stuffer for the film lover on your list.

Get ready for a 2024 featuring anticipated movies like Inside Out 2, Dune: Part 2 and Deadpool 3.

Gift cards are available at the theater box office or website.

Featured Holiday Movies

JEFF TAYLOR/THE WINCHESTER STAR Popular Cotopaxi day packs, hip packs and clothing along with Rockford Red Heel Socks (right) at Mountain Trails on the Loudoun Street Mall in downtown Winchester.

TRAILS continued from PAGE 4

owners, now runs Seneca Rocks Climbing School, and his expertise helps guide the ordering. (Interesting note: tree arborists and linemen also find this section helpful to their trades.)

Forget the hot dogs. The food wall offers easy-to-prepare dehydrated meals — which have come a long way in quality, according to the staff.

Just add boiling water and you can have beef stroganoff, fettuccine alfredo or other delicacies. Vegan and pescatarian options are also available.

You can visit Mountain Trails’ Winchester location at 115 N. Loudoun St. on the Loudoun Street Mall. The Front Royal store is at 120 E. Main St. To learn more about the products and services they offer — as well as the anticipated opening date for the Davis, W.Va. store, visit www.mountain-trails.com.

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HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE 2023

The Northern Virginia Daily & The Winchester Star

By LAURA RUBY

you go directly, you’re actually paying for customer service, but you may not be getting it. Going through a travel agent, we’re going to work for you 24/7 while you’re on the trip. If something were to happen — your flight gets canceled — you can call us and we can get to work on it.”

With proper planning, travel can make a great gift The Northern Virginia Daily

W

hether you’re looking to stay close to home, explore the world, or plan an excursion somewhere in between, Main Street Travel in Front Royal has more than a decade of experience helping travelers find the trip that’s right for them.

With the holidays fast approaching, travel advisor Rachel Battles said the agency is eager to serve travelers who are looking for a quiet getaway, a place to gather the whole gang, or planning ahead for a trip in the coming year.

Battles explained that the benefit of using a travel agent is the personalized service and attention provided during travel.

“Price is very important to people, particularly in travel. There are a lot of opportunities out there to save money, but you really need to understand what you’re getting,” Battles said, noting that internet travel deals are embedded with commissions for travel agents. “So if LAURA RUBY/THE NORTHERN VIRGINIA DAILY they’re going online — all of the dot coms, the find me an airfare dot com Rachel Battles, trip advisor at Main Street Travel in Front Royal, looks though QUALITY brochures for various destinations. Mountain Trails also has a Front Royal location.

— there’s a commission built in that. If

In addition to helping clients understand changing policies and rules in the travel industry, travel agents are able to offer insight into traveler’s rights, including the fact they can be compensated for interruptions to their trip, Battles said. Because of the potential for flight delays, sickness, and other issues, Battles said Main Street Travel encourages clients to consider travel insurance.

Importantly, travel agents provide personalized service in trip planning and tap into their expertise to curate plans, said Battles, adding that she enjoys getting to know clients to cultivate the trip of their dreams.

When it comes to family trips, she said, it’s important to consider the expectations of everyone involved.

TRAVEL continued on PAGE 7

OUTFITTERS

Winchester Store

QUALITY

115 N Loudoun St Winchester, VA 22601 (540) 667-0030 Mon-Thur: 10am-7pm Fri-Sat: 10am-8pm Sun: 12pm-5pm

OUTFITTERS

Winchester Store

QUALITY

Winchester Store 115 N Loudoun St Winchester, VA 22601 (540) 667-0030 Mon-Thur: 10am-7pm Fri-Sat: 10am-8pm Sun: 12pm-5pm

115 N Loudoun St Winchester, VA 22601 (540) 667-0030 Mon-Thur: 10am-7pm Fri-Sat: 10am-8pm OUTFITTERS Sun: 12pm-5pm

120 E Main St, Front Royal, VA 22630 (540) 749-2470 Mon-Thur: 10am-6pm Fri-Sat: 10am-7pm Sun: 12pm-5pm

www.mountain-trails.com

Front Royal Store

120 E Main St, Front Royal, VA 22630 (540) 749-2470 Mon-Thur: 10am-6pm Fri-Sat: 10am-7pm Sun: 12pm-5pm

Front Royal Store www.mountain-trails.com 120 E Main St,

WWW.MOUNTAIN-TRAILS.COM Front Royal, VA 22630 (540) 749-2470 Mon-Thur: 10am-6pm Fri-Sat: 10am-7pm Sun: 12pm-5pm

Front Royal Store

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COMPLETE AUTO & TRUCK REPAIR

Brochures for cruise lines.

LAURA RUBY/THE NORTHERN VIRGINIA DAILY

TRAVEL continued from PAGE 6

“We find out what they do as a family — what their interests are — and try to match that up . Do they want some history on the trip? Do they want cultural experiences? Do they want activities? Do they just want to relax as a family?” she said. “Our goal is this has to be the best experience for the money that they’re paying.”

For folks looking to travel for the holidays, Battles pointed to the many opportunities in the Shenandoah Valley for scenery and wineries. Familyfriendly resorts like Great Wolf Lodge are also popular, as is the Pigeon Forge area of Tennessee with its access to Dollywood, national parks, and the Smoky Mountains, she said. River cruises along the Mississippi, and throughout Europe, also offer a fun and different way to explore, Battles said.

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“In some cases, people who come in who want to do family trips are looking for something different,” she added, saying that perhaps they’ve traveled the Caribbean on a cruise or been to a resort and want to explore a new area that has something to offer their young kids or teens.

Heading into winter, traveling south to Florida and beyond in the Caribbean becomes popular, with peak season for travel there from December to April, Battles said. Trips north to Alaska and Scandinavian countries are also popular during that time frame as people seek out the Northern Lights, she said.

Travel abroad — Britain and Ireland are popular destinations — can be crafted with concierge service and detailed itineraries or with more flexibility, depending on the preference of the travelers, she said.

® National Institute for AUTOMOTIVE SERVICE EXCELLENCE

Battles said that savings opportunities sometimes come from traveling early in the month and early in the week, adding that those with flexibility on when they travel are able to take advantage of better pricing.

For more information, visit www.mainstreet-travel.com.

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HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE 2023

The Northern Virginia Daily & The Winchester Star

Kimberly’s ready for the holidays with decorations, hostess gifts, more

By WENDY G. KEDZIERSKI Special to The Winchester Star

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alking into Kimberly’s is always an exhilarating rush of sensory input.

But visiting the boutique during the holidays brings this awakening to a whole new level.

The store – actually a three-shop, 15,000-square-foot complex — is

overflowing with sumptuous giftgiving options, all in a bedazzled holiday setting.

“You can walk out of here with a pair of men’s boxer shorts, a bottle of wine, a dress for a party or fine china and stationery,” says owner Kimberly Sowers. “We joke that we are everything but automotive!”

Kimberly’s is celebrating its 35th Christmas, a feat accomplished by listening to what their customers want, but also seeking out unique merchandise that their customers may not realize they want, but ultimately must have. Kimberly says the key to staying open is staying relevant.

full of ideas. You could give your hostess some type of hors d’oeuvre or nibble — maybe some pumpkin butter and a beautiful kitchen towel.”

The gourmet market has a large selection of artisan cheeses, wines, pasta, olive oil, chocolates, seasonings, teas and more. Custom gift baskets also are available.

The lower level of the main store offers a distinctly masculine vibe in McKee’s, a men’s shop featuring clothing, grooming products, barware and gifts. A sharp dressed man can choose from upscale brands like Johnnie-O sport coats, Stantt custom shirts, R. Hanauer bow ties and more.

While it would be impossible to list A short stroll across Kimberly’s all the holiday offerings available, main shop parking lot takes you to Kimberly has some general the ladies’ and children’s boutiques. recommendations for decorating Women’s clothing, shoes, jewelry and gift-giving. and accessories include iconic names such as Lilly Pulitzer, First and foremost: hostess gifts.

Vineyard Vines, Frye, Gretchen Scott, Julie Vos, Spanx and others.

“You always should take The second-floor children’s shop your hostess something,” she offers books, games, toys and emphasizes. “They’ve gone to a clothing by Mud Pie, Baby Stella, lot of effort to have you over. We have a whole gourmet department

JEFF TAYLOR/THE WINCHESTER STAR Kimberly’s owner Kimberly Sowers stands at the shop’s truffle display case with a Candy Land-themed mantel in the background.

KIMBERLY’S continued on PAGE 9

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HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE 2023

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KIMBERLY’S continued from PAGE 8

Manhattan Toy, Mud Puppy, Think Fun and more.

The food should be as easy as the fun.

For shoppers looking to freshen their holiday decor, Kimberly’s has “garland by the mile” as well as “really just everything you’ll need to decorate your home for the holidays: placemats, napkins, runners, tablecloths, tapered candles,” Kimberly says.

Party trays

under $40

“Linens make a big difference changing the whole mood of the table,” she adds.

A nature-themed tree has been a mainstay at Kimberly’s during Christmas.

Sna 99 cker $29. s deli ght tray • Serves 20 •

Oliv

Sm a

“We’ve probably had a woodlandthemed tree for 25 years,” says Kimberly.

e&a

ntipasto tray • Serves 20 • $39.9

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ORDER AHEAD online, by phone & in-store.

To ensure our best service, please allow 48 hours notice.

ENTERTAINING Not all items are available in all stores. See order form for current price and sizes.

JEFF TAYLOR/THE WINCHESTER STAR Kimberly’s owner Kimberly Sowers with a snowy owl ornament on a woodlands-themed Christmas tree in her downtown Winchester store. Everything on the tree is for sale.

“It’s decorated with birds, deer, fox, For those who are looking for a antlers, pine cones, feathers.” total refresh and don’t want to take Other decorating themes on display the time to piece together a tree, include contemporary pinks and purchasing a pre-decorated tree is greens, as well as classic motifs such an option. By October, Kimberly’s as Old World decor and vintage had already sold one entirely Santas. decorated tree.

“We also still have a thriving paper business here,” says Kimberly. “We have a huge selection of boxed cards and we also have cards that we can personalize. Our stationery department still does very well.

We have a really nice following of young people who still like paper.

It’s something that creates more of a true connection to people rather than an email.”

Kimberly’s is open Monday to Saturday, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., and Sunday, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Learn more at www.kimberlys.biz or visit JEFF TAYLOR/THE WINCHESTER STAR the shop at the corner of Braddock A White Christmas tree at Kimberly’s in downtown Winchester. All of the items on the and Piccadilly streets in downtown tree are for sale.

Winchester. Phone: 540-662-2195.

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HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE 2023

The Northern Virginia Daily & The Winchester Star

Middletown’s Timeless Wines offers something special at every price point

By LAURA RUBY

The Northern Virginia Daily

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ooking for the perfect bottle of wine for the holiday season? Look no further than

Timeless Wines on Main Street in Middletown.

Mike Good, a former information technology director, started Timeless Wines in 2005 with small warehouses in Winchester and Oxnard, California. After moving his inventory to Winchester in 2010, Good opened the warehouse

LAURA RUBY/THE NORTHERN VIRGINIA DAILY Looking for the perfect bottle of wine for the holiday season? Look no further than Timeless Wines on Main Street in Middletown.

and retail store in Middletown in 2014.

Open daily from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m., the retail store showcases “some of our finds for our local neighbors,” Good said “what we are not is a warehouse or store full of whatever bottle was on sale that week.”

You get to know everyone, the wine producers and their families come to visit us in the states just as we visit them. Because of this relationship we have experiences few get to have when traveling.”

Good said that Timeless Wines is the culmination “of all things that bring the wine to your glass.” He Wines said he chose the wine business for its travel opportunities. offered his expertise on wines for the holiday season — with a variety “Selecting the wines doesn’t just of options at different price points. involve the wine itself, it comes down to the culture, the people, the Top 5 Holiday Wines cuisine from each and every wine Priced between $10 and $15, Good producing region in the world,” recommends Pioneiro Red Blend he said. “In this business when 2020. you travel to these locations, you WINES continued on PAGE 11 travel as family, not as a tourist.

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HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE 2023

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Looking for the perfect bottle of wine for the holiday season?

Look no further than Timeless Wines on Main Street in Middletown.

This holiday season, give the gift of live theatre!

LAURA RUBY/THE NORTHERN VIRGINIA DAILY WINES continued from PAGE 10

June 21-30

“This red wine from Portugal made the number one spot in ‘The Washington Post’ for best value wines. It’s a small price with a big lush palate that will go well at any winter time party,” Good said.

Priced at $20, Hansen Lauer Bernkasteler Badstube Riesling is ideal for the Thanksgiving table.

July 5-14

July 19-August 4

ssmtva.org | 540-665-4569

“The important fact here is that these are dry style Riesling, not sweet. Sweetness would overpower your classic Thanksgiving foods,” Good said, adding that a good rule of thumb is to serve savory food with savory wines and sweet wines with sweet foods.

“This dry-style Riesling will complement your turkey or other white meat dishes wonderfully,” he said, adding that despite the amount of residual sugar these wines hold, the higher acidity brings a perfect balance to the palate and also goes well with hors d’oeuvres.

Good said that the wine’s low alcohol by volume “will keep all your guests arriving upright for the main course.”

If you’re looking for bubbles, Good recommends Thibaut - Janisson

Blanc De Blanc. Coming in around the $35 price point, this Virginia sparkling Blanc de Blanc is made in Méthode champenoise, also known as the Champagne method.

“Claude Thibaut is one of few Virginia winemakers that we have chosen to sell nationally,” he said.

If you’re in the market for a heavy red, Good suggests the Rubus Special Edition Barossa Shiraz 2018.

At $75 a bottle, he noted, “This is an upper end wine that still manages to drink well out of its price point.

Shiraz of this quality often sells for well over $100.”

Good recommends pairing it with “anything from lamb to a fatty ribeye.”

Chardonnay from the Meursault region of Burgundy makes for a great winter time sipper.

Good said the $90 a bottle Florence Cholet Meursault Blanc 2020 pairs well with cream-based pasta sauces or stands on its own while holding “a full body with vibrant acidity on the finish.”

Timeless Wines ships nationwide.

Orders can be placed online for delivery or in-store pick up. For more information, visit www.timelesswines.com.

HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE 2023

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The Northern Virginia Daily & The Winchester Star

JEFF TAYLOR/THE WINCHESTER STAR

A customer enters Blue Plate Books in Winchester.

Feed the need to read with a gift from Blue Plate Books

By KRISTA G. FARRIS

Special to The Winchester Star

B

lue Plate Books, the largest used bookstore in the Northern Shenandoah Valley, has been “feeding your need to read” for 15 years. Currently boasting a whopping 70,000 books on its shelves, the Winchester store can help you find the perfect literary match for those on your holiday gift list.

a reasonable price, which means you’re apt to stay within your buying budget.

“We try really hard to keep our prices reasonable all year long. We try to be a good used bookstore that will stretch your dollar,” Blue Plate Books owner Pat Saine says.

books, it’s a great place to shop for children’s books. You’ll find modern stories and oldies but

goodies. “You can come and choose

Crabill’s Retail Store

Old Valley Traditions…

Let us help you stock your freezer for the winter or that special holiday.

Whatever the topic, Saine and the Blue Plate staff can likely help you find a suitable book. There are sections for music, film, math The store features carefully curated, (!), philosophy, genealogy, local clean copies of gently used, out history, science fiction, humor, of print and antiquarian books at mystery and more.

Blue Plate Books also features vintage books and antiquarian books, the oldest of which is a New Testament from 1590. “There is such a difference between getting the paperback reading copy of a book versus the old leather covered copy,” Saine says.

The store also sells signed books JEFF TAYLOR/THE WINCHESTER STAR that can be a special treat for a gift A selection of Dr. Seuss books are available recipient. at Blue Plate Books, which offers a wide selection of used books.

Since the store has vintage

BOOKS continued on PAGE 13

We offer Fresh Sausage, Steaks, Ribs, Bacon, Hamburger or Beef & Pork by the half or quarter cut and wrapped. we have gift gards!

3109 Riverview Drive Toms Brook, VA 22660 Retail Store: 540.436.3884 Butcher Shop: 540.436.3248

Don’t forget to check out our Deli!

Stop in today we’re worth the trip!!

Hours: Mon.-Fri. 8am-5pm Sat. 8am-3pm

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For All Your Orthopaedic, Physical and Occupational Therapy Needs

JEFF TAYLOR/THE WINCHESTER STAR Blue Plate Books owner of 15 years Pat Saine stocks shelves with some of the many used children’s books he has for sale at his store at 2257 Valley Ave. in Winchester.

BOOKS continued from PAGE 12

a vintage copy of a book you loved as a kid to read to them,” Saine says.

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We are here for you during the busy Holiday Season!

No matter the genre, if you’re shopping for a book that isn’t hot off the press, it will likely be on the shelf at Blue Plate. You can take it home the same day without having to wait for it to be ordered. This comes in handy if you are looking to gift an early book from a series.

Stores that feature new books might have the most recently released book, but not the older books.

Still on the fence about selecting a book as a gift? No problem. Blue Plate sells gift cards from $1 to $1 million (although Saine says with a laugh that nobody has taken the million dollar option). “A $5 gift card gives a kid the ability to choose a book for themselves and become invested in reading it,” he adds.

For adults, buying a gift at Blue

Plate Books is a low risk way to shop. There are plenty of options to peruse in a calm, low-stress environment. “There are a lot of books in this store that sit on the shelves nicely getting along with each other. It’s a beautiful collection of opinions — a marketplace of ideas,” he says.

Ultimately, you get big entertainment value for your buck with used books, according to Saine.

And, if the book falls flat with the recipient, Saine and his team are happy to accept returns within a few days. “If you love books and come here, we will make you a happy person,” he says.

Blue Plate Books is open seven days a week from 10 a.m.-8 p.m., 362 days a year. It’s located at 2257 Valley Ave., Winchester.

Call 540-662-6657 or check out blueplatebooks.com for more details.

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HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE 2023

The Northern Virginia Daily & The Winchester Star

Give an experience this holiday season

By ASHLEY MILLER

going with him to his first show.”

L

She admitted that while it was technically his gift, it really was a The Cozy Cottage, gift for the whole family. Seeing her Fort Valley son overwhelmed with excitement Nestled in Fort Valley sits the Cozy was the best gift of all.

Cottage, a cozy Airbnb perfect for Sometimes adventure can be found those looking to get away from the in the backyard. Here are a few big city, or for those simply looking ideas: to slow down. Decorated for the holiday season, the Cozy Cottage Cave Ridge Vineyard, welcomes those who wish to sit Mount Jackson by the fire and read or those more adventures looking to take in the For those looking to celebrate the holidays with a unique experience, scenic views, whether hiking or enjoying local nature.

Cave Ridge Vineyard offers an

The Northern Virginia Daily

ooking for a truly unique and thoughtful gift this Christmas season? Consider gifting an experience, where adventure awaits for any adult or child. While gifts are great for the moment, memories last a lifetime.

Sandi Huey of Front Royal made the decision to start gifting experiences rather than individual gifts to her son because as she said, “he has enough stuff.” She purchased tickets to see the comedian Gabriel Iglesias aka Fluffy.

“This is my favorite gift because I got to surprise my son with the tickets at Christmas,” Huey said.

“Then got the added adventure of

igloo experience — fully furnished and heated, with dedicated staff for service. The package includes a keepsake mug to take home and a round of seasonal mulled wine. Packages are also able to

The search for the perfect gift tends to be easier when shoppers are aware of the latest trends, and perhaps no current gifting trend is more popular than giving experiences. According to a 2022 survey from the travel booking platform GetYourGuide,

77 percent of individuals surveyed indicated they would rather receive experiences than physical gifts come the holiday season. Travel

experiences are the most sought-after experiential gifts, as 63 percent of individuals surveyed indicated surprise travel is the experience they would most enjoy receiving.

However, a trip to parts unknown is not the only experience shoppers can give, nor is it the only one friends and family would love to receive. The GetYourGuide survey found that tickets to a concert or show (50 percent); outdoor activities, such as skiing, boating or hiking (43 percent); and a food tour or cooking class (36 percent) also made for desirable experiential gifts.

be upgraded with charcuterie, chocolates, and other light fare.

to take in the Virginia Historical Landmark, while delighting in rustic American style cuisine. The restaurant specializes in local, freshly prepared food and is open Wednesday through Saturday for lunch and dinner.

Bryce Resort, Bayse

Enjoy the slopes this holiday season with Bryce Resort, the premium southeast destination for all things winter including snow tubing, ice skating, skiing, snowboarding and racing. Enjoy hot cups of Edinburg Mill Restaurant, coffee or cocoa after frolicking in Edinburg the snow. Guests are encouraged to stay in one of a dozen local For the foodies who love local accommodations for a cozy history, the Edinburg Mill Restaurant is ideal for those seeking weekend away.

Frederick County Parks and Recreation

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HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE 2023

2023 HSSC HOLIDAY FUND DRIVE

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HSSC Programs help the most vulnerable animals in Shenandoah County Homeward Bound Foster & Placement • Spay & Neuter Transport • Fix-A-Pit • Operation Catsnip (TNR: Trap, Neuter, Return)

Please give generously to help the animals in Shenandoah County

Donations are tax-deductible Mail check to: Humane Society of Shenandoah County PO Box 173, Woodstock, VA 22664 Donate online (via paypal) www.hsscva.org Spay/Neuter: 540-421-4842 • Email: info@hsscva.org • HSSC voicemail: 540-984-7101 Follow us on Facebook and Instagram!

Here are just a few of the animals HSSC has helped through your generous and caring support.

HSSC is an all volunteer foster based organization without a physical location. We would like to thank all of our volunteers and foster homes for generously giving their time and opening up their hearts to animals in need during another busy year!

HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE 2023

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The Northern Virginia Daily & The Winchester Star

JEFF TAYLOR/THE WINCHESTER STAR LEFT: Teena Wharton of Oakdale, Louisiana, visits the Winchester Book Gallery on the Loudoun Street Mall in downtown Winchester after attending a conference in nearby Warren County.

ABOVE: A large selection of stylish reading glasses in various magnifications are available at Winchester Book Gallery.

Discover a world of pageturning gifts to please all at Winchester Book Gallery

By KRISTA G. FARRIS

Special to The Winchester Star

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here’s a reason why Winchester Book Gallery is a downtown mainstay and popular destination for gift shopping.

Owner/manager Christine Patrick says the 51-year old store has something for everyone.

Shelves and tables are full of classics and new releases — all with that brand-new feel and fresh binding.

Describe the person for whom you’re shopping and store staff can point you in the right direction of a gift they’ll love.

“The Book Gallery is one-stop

shopping, literally,” Patrick says.

“You can find any kind of book here — from books about baseball to sticker books. We sell cookbooks, you can do hostess gifts. You can go through your list and find a book for your college son’s girlfriend and all of your grandparents. There’s just so much diversity in this bookstore.”

Winchester Book Gallery, an independently owned shop, is not just a place where you can support a local business; the shop itself does its part to support local writers and carry titles that speak to local history. You can find the full slate of “Winchester Tales” BOOKS continued on PAGE 13

Give the perfect gift this holiday season.

Apparel • Jewelry • Handbags Accessories, Etc...

Vera Bradley, Pandora, Bogg Bag, Uno de 50, Julie Vos, Brumate, Barefoot Dreams, enewton, and more...

Your Local Neighbor Pharmacy & Distinctive Gift Shop in One

5015 Main St., Stephens City VA • 540.869.1660 Hours: Mon-Fri 8:30am-7pm, Sat 8:30am-5pm

lantzspharmacyandgifts.com

The Northern Virginia Daily & The Winchester Star

HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE 2023

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BOOKS continued from PAGE 12

books written by local favorite Mike Robinson. Local historical society books are featured along with fiction, nonfiction and more written by local authors, graphic artists and illustrators.

The gallery recently restocked a bunch of Willa Cather books, too, Patrick says. Cather, a Pulitzer Prize-winning novelist, was born in Frederick County in 1873.

Patrick invites shoppers to take a seat, rest, check their shopping lists and look around. There’s plenty more to discover in Winchester Book Gallery beyond new books.

She says new books are wonderful gifts, even if the person for whom you’re buying is not a full-on bibliophile. Books, she says, can be passed down in families and shared with friends in a way that enriches connection.

The store also sells items that can make reading more fun and comfy.

There are mini-mugs for hot tea, an array of reading glasses to don before diving into nighttime favorites and character-themed stuffed animals a kiddo can snuggle while hearing a loved bedtime story. The store even carries tags with adorable quotations for canine collars, so that when puppy pals curl up on a couch with their favorite wintertime reader, everyone is happy.

Does your gift recipient like variety or you just don’t know them that well? A gift certificate (perhaps tucked into a special greeting card selected from the store’s creative offerings) will allow the gift-getter to enjoy the magic of a book store browse themselves.

Does the person enjoy audio books while commuting, working

JEFF TAYLOR/THE WINCHESTER STAR A selection of Christmas cards, books and calendars are displayed at Winchester Book Gallery.

or playing? You can buy them a bundle of audio books or a subscription to Libro.fm —an audiobook company — that has oodles of titles.

Maybe you know someone who loves a good brain teaser.

Winchester Book Gallery has a playful array of jigsaw puzzles and crossword puzzles.

Whatever your gift-giving druthers, Winchester Book Gallery’s got you covered. And, you’ll shop knowing you’re supporting a locally-owned shop. In that way, that’s a gift that keeps on giving, according to Patrick. “Supporting local adds to the bottom line of this community.

And that’s always a good thing.”

Winchester Book Gallery, located at 7 N. Loudoun St., is open MondayThursday, 10 a.m. to 7 p.m.; Friday and Saturday, 10 a.m. to 8 pm.; Sunday, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Or you can shop on the store’s website, winchesterbookgallery.com, or give them a call at 540-667-3444.

The shop offers free gift wrapping and delivers locally (which might save you if you’re a forgetful Secret Santa).

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HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE 2023

The Northern Virginia Daily & The Winchester Star

Gallery One goes a step beyond to help you preserve memories

By KRISTA G. FARRIS

Special to The Winchester Star

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o you have a photo, art or mementos that bring you or a loved one joy? Why not find a way to frame it this holiday season?

Gallery One Picture Framing Studio and Art Gallery in Winchester can help. Ada Knight and Martha Knight are in-laws who have made their frame shop at 385 Millwood Ave. a go-to place for generations.

Having cherished photographs, artwork, prints, diplomas and other items professionally framed can be a magical, personal gift, according to Ada and Martha.

Gallery One also encourages people to think outside the box and dive into the world of shadow boxes.

Safe-guarding and displaying three dimensional memorabilia is usually possible and renders an extremely unique gift.

The two recall making shadow boxes and frames for an eclectic array of items throughout the 40 years they’ve been in the business: a long braid of hair, kimonos, baby dolls, flapper dancer accoutrement, lockets, needlework, bottles, watches, sports memorabilia, vintage purses, medals and more.

It does take a bit of time (two to three months) to professionally arrange and artfully encase items in a shadow box, though. So, if you’re ordering for the holidays, Gallery One suggests buying a gift certificate for someone who might

Here is an example of a shadow box created at Gallery One in Winchester.

enjoy encasing their special items in a shadow box. That way, ample time can be given after the holidays to create a long-lasting presentation that affords the best chance at preservation.

In fact, they agree that gift certificates for framing are wonderful holiday gestures. The shop has an enormous variety of frames — traditional, modern, classic, funky — from which to choose. Ada notes that people’s tastes differ. So, it is sometimes advantageous to work through the framing process with the person who will put the art up on their wall.

“We’ve been at this for 40 years, so we know a bunch of options we can show them,” Ada says. There are many different options when it comes to adhesives, glass, paper and the other parts of the framing puzzle. If customers want to protect their keepsakes well, a little knowledge goes a long way. “We educate our customers too. We explain why we’re suggesting that they do something a certain way.”

create something wonderful. “We both have artistic backgrounds. It’s a nice outlet for us,” Martha says.

“We love it.”

Martha adds, “We have things you might not find at other places that do framing, unique things.”

Plus, it is their passion, and they feel invested in helping customers

Gallery one is open TuesdayFriday, 11 a.m.-4 p.m., and Saturday by appointment. Find out more at galleryoneframing.com or call 540-662-0233

Ada shares her sister-in-law’s enthusiasm for framing and for serving the community for decades.

“We love our customers. We have people who have been coming to us for years and now their children come to us. That’s special!”

Mowery Orchard, LLC Open Daily 9 to 5

We will be closing at 4 p.m. December 23rd and Reopen January 1st Fresh Apples, Apple Cider, Apple Butter and preserves.

Local farm fresh milk, butter, eggs, cheeses, and honey.

Locally raised beef, chicken, pork.

Make your own gift baskets from some of the other items we offer.

Such as bulk candy, nuts, dried fruit, spices, teas, coffee, gluten free snacks, soup mixes, wheat bran, pancake mixes, rolled oats, steel cut oats and products made from local artisans.

Gift Certificates make great gifts!

Easy to find on Route 42, 1/2 mile west of I-81, exit 283, Woodstock

Stop by and see us!

24247 Senedo Road, Woodstock, VA 22664

540-459-8645 • www.MoweryOrchard.com • Find us on Facebook or Instagram

The Northern Virginia Daily & The Winchester Star

HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE 2023

The benefits of shopping local during the holidays

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illions of people enjoy shopping for gifts and loved ones each holiday season.

The spirit of giving is alive and well each December, and that can extend to giving back to one’s own community.

In addition to supporting local charities when making donations during the holiday season, shoppers can patronize small local businesses over big box retailers and national chains. The decision to do so can benefit communities in myriad ways.

Thanksgiving Traditions Linens • Candles Hostess Gifts Gourmet • Wine • Chocolates Old Town Winchester • 540-662-2195

Mon-Sat 10-6 • Sun 11-5 www.kimberlys.biz

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businesses sends a positive message to young entrepreneurs and locals who are part of groups that have traditionally been underrepresented in business. That can help to create a more diverse and inclusive Main Street, the success of which depends heavily on locals’ willingness to patronize locally-owned businesses.

• Shopping local supports many small business owners. Family meals and social gatherings with friends and coworkers are a big part of • Small businesses inspire the holiday season, and it’s not uncommon to break bread and young entrepreneurs. share a few drinks during a night The United States Department of Commerce reports that nearly half on the town. Choosing to gather of all small business owners in the at a locally owned restaurant or U.S. in 2018 were 54 or younger. tavern instead of a chain restaurant Six percent of those owners were 34 can have a ripple effect on an and under. Young entrepreneurs assortment of local businesses. at the helm of thriving local Local restaurants often source their businesses provide inspiration to ingredients from local farms. A the next generation of innovators. family meal at such a restaurant • Thriving small benefits both the restaurant business owners owner and the hardworking local can send a positive suppliers of the food that ends message to traditionally up on the plate. Local restaurants underrepresented groups. also are more likely to list locally The National Women’s Business produced wines and craft beers on Council Annual Report for 2022 their menus than national chains. indicated women-owned employer firms increased by nearly 17 percent That adds to the ripple effect of celebrating the holidays at a locally between 2012 and 2019. Similarly, owned restaurant. the U.S. Census Bureau’s 2021 Annual Business Survey found A thriving small business sector that there were more Hispanicis vital to a strong local economy. owned and minority-owned Shoppers can keep that in mind and businesses in various sectors than patronize local businesses during a decade earlier. The success of women- and minority-owned the holiday season.

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HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE 2023

The Northern Virginia Daily & The Winchester Star

What’s in a name? In the case of name portraits, you might find the perfect gift

By KRISTA G. FARRIS

Special to The Winchester Star

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alk through Gallery One and venture upstairs to find a world of personalized art created by Charla Hayen, owner of Name Portraits by Charla. In fact, it’s likely that you might even happen upon Hayen busily creating a new piece, scissors in hand and pens at the ready. Hayen sells a variety of cards, prints and personalized mats that feature “word art.”

The illustrator elegantly writes a word or phrase and then meticulously decorates the space in and around the letters with vintage pictures from the early 1900s and her own drawings that are created with pen and ink, watercolor pen and colored pencil. The images combine to tell a colorful, detailed story through pictures on a single page.

If you poke around Name Portraits, you’ll likely find something that highlights an aspect of the person for whom you’re shopping. Hayen’s studio shop is well-organized with art grouped in clear categories.

If you’re looking for a unique, local gift this holiday season, her illustration of the words “Shenandoah Valley” can be found on cards and prints at the shop. It features pictures that depict of her memories of the natural world around here — red buds, a monarch butterfly, a praying mantis and an apple join other Shenandoah Valley images, wending their way around the words.

The professions section features art for a favorite doctor, firefighter and more. You can treat your mother, father, grandparent or another loved one to a special print from the family section. The art celebrate all sorts of things from a person’s name, hobbies, the arts, inspirational quotations, locations, family, theater, weddings and more.

There are Christmas, Chanukah and other pieces. You can even embellish another gift with a holiday-themed name card.

You name it, Hayen might have it. And if she doesn’t she can create it.

Literally, say the word! Special orders can be done based on specialty asks.

However, she notes that slots for preholiday special orders have filled.

So, if you don’t find a card or print on the rack that celebrates a word or name you’re hoping to highlight, a gift card (perhaps tucked into one of the creative holiday cards she sells) might be your best bet so she can create a personalized special something for your special someone after the holidays.

To learn more about Name Portraits by Charla, visit nameportraits.com or call 540-535-0515.

This is an example of one of Charla Hayen’s name portraits.

The Northern Virginia Daily & The Winchester Star

HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE 2023

Holiday gifts for the family artist

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he feeling of giving a gift and watching the recipient smile broadly after peeling away the wrapping is part of what the makes holiday season such a special time of year. Matching presents to people is not always easy, but when shoppers pull it off, the smile on a loved one’s face is quite the reward.

10th Annual

Feed a Friend in Need All Pets Cremation Center wants our fur-friends at local shelters and rescues to have a joyful holiday season. From November 1st through December 9th, All Pets will be matching food donations pound per pound.

Since beginning this campaign in 2014, All Pets Cremation Center has donated over 82,000 pounds of pet food to our local shelters and rescues.

To help support our shelters and feed our furfriends this holiday season, please drop off your pet food Monday - Friday, 9AM - 5PM and Saturday 9AM - 1PM. 1560 Amherst Street Winchester, VA 22601 540.450.2262 allpetscremationcenter.com

Creative individuals and resident artists are continually honing their crafts. This holiday season could be the perfect opportunity to tune into these artistic pursuits and give something that lets artists take their creativity to the next level.

The following are some gift ideas for artistic individuals on holiday shopping lists.

Supplies gift basket Each artistic pursuit requires its own array of materials and tools to perfect the craft. For example, painters will rely on canvases, oils and paintbrushes to create masterpieces, while those who engage in ceramics may need bisques, clays and firing tools. A mix of supplies can fuel upcoming projects.

respective fields. Local artists also may be willing to serve as mentors or instructors, and sessions with these people also can make perfect holiday gifts.

Shopping experience Many artists also are entrepreneurs who sell their wares to others. You can help promote that passion by funding an online shopping website or paying for table or booth fees at area craft festivals and other vendor events around town.

Display their art If an artist you know has a particularly beloved collection or piece of art, arrange for a professional framing or purchase a high-end display case. This way Museum or exhibition visit the artwork will remain pristine for Artists may be inspired by others others to enjoy in the years ahead. who engage in the arts. Purchase tickets to a museum that has always Gift cards been a favorite for the gift recipient. Though gift cards may seem impersonal, they can be the Entry to a local art installation or means by which an artist is able to exhibition also figures to be a hit. purchase supplies or travel to art Lessons shows to sell their offerings. Don’t Classes with an artistic master discount the utility of gift cards can help artists hone their craft. come the holiday season.

Masterclass.com offers annual Artists can benefit from a number subscriptions or monthly sessions during which people can learn from of different gifts that help to propel the world’s best instructors in their their creative pursuits.

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HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE 2023

How to master shopping early for the holidays

States. However, many holiday shoppers now begin buying gifts long before they’ve purchased a is a well-known English proverb Thanksgiving turkey. In its 2022 that historians trace all the way Consumer Pulse Survey, McKinsey back to the 1600s. Though the & Company found that 56 percent words might first have been popularized hundreds of years ago, of consumers started their holiday shopping in October. A host of they remain as true today as they were then, particularly in regard to variables may have influenced that shift, but supply chain issues holiday shopping. related to the COVID-19 pandemic Savvy shoppers have long touted have lingered, which undoubtedly the importance of starting compelled consumers to get an early when looking for holiday especially early start on holiday gifts for loved ones. Seasoned shopping. Shoppers who want procrastinators may never embrace to ensure everything arrives on early shopping, but others who time for the holiday season must want to a less hectic holiday recognize that “early” shopping shopping season can consider these now involves beginning around tips.

Halloween, if not earlier.

The Northern Virginia Daily & The Winchester Star

“The early bird gets the worm”

• Begin with a plan. Holiday shopping excursions, whether they take place in town, at the mall or online, can take longer than expected when shoppers have no idea what they’re looking for. Prior to your first holiday shopping trip, jot down gift ideas for each person on your list. Then scour stores or websites for those items. Starting early affords shoppers time to bargain hunt and ensures supply shortages or other issues won’t get in the way of a happy loved one come the holiday season.

• Recognize the notion of “early” has changed.

Early holiday shopping used to be synonymous with the retail holiday Black Friday, which occurs the day after Thanksgiving in the United

• Take the (local) road less traveled. Shopping local merchants in person is a strategy savvy shoppers have long since embraced, but it’s one that’s especially beneficial in an era marked by supply chain issues and inflation. Local merchants don’t have the overhead or sizable staffs of big box or chain stores, which enables them to keep costs low.

And since local merchants produce many of their own products, it’s likely there’s something in store that shoppers will love and less likely that they will have issues filling orders. A late fall afternoon in a local shopping district can yield an array of treasures and help holiday shoppers find the right gift for many a person on their list.

• When in doubt, go gift card. If the right gift is proving elusive even when shopping early, shoppers should not hesitate to go the gift card route. Shoppers need not feel as though a gift card is a nonstarter, as a 2022 survey from the National Retail Federation

found that 54 percent of survey respondents indicated gift cards were the most desirable gift of the holiday season.

Shopping early is a great way to enjoy a less hectic holiday season.

The Northern Virginia Daily & The Winchester Star

HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE 2023

The Virginia Reel

By John Paul Strain

General J.E.B. Stuart, Mrs. Flora Cooke Stuart, Lt.R. Channing Price, General Fitzhugh Lee, Captain W. W. Blackford, Major John Pelham, Captain James Breathed, Sam Sweeney Christmas Eve 1862-near Moss Neck, Virginia Price for Framing Starts at $329 for Prints and $129 for Canvas

“Winterday in the Valley”

By P. Buckley Moss

The image size is 9 x 7.75 Price $70 • Framing Special Price $109

King James Galleries 161 Prosperity Dr., Suite 104, Winchester, VA (540) 869-9025 or toll free 888-217-1865 www.King JamesGalleries.com Tues.-Fri. 10-5 • Sat. 10-4

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How to avoid breaking the bank this holiday season

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illions of individuals enjoy holiday shopping for their loved ones each year. Come the holiday season, thoughts of what to get friends and family is foremost on the minds of those who embrace the spirit of giving that is synonymous with this special time of year.

It’s easy to overspend come the holiday shopping season. That could be even easier in an era marked by high inflation, which has affected consumers since 2022. Lingering inflation could require shoppers to be especially vigilant with their shopping budgets this holiday season. Thankfully, a few simple strategies can help shoppers stay the financial course this holiday season.

• Track spending with a banking app on your smartphone. Consumers can now track their spending in real time by downloading their bank and/or credit card app on their smartphones. A quick login can help shoppers monitor account balances to determine how much they have spent. If the budget is about to be busted, pull back the reins and cut the shopping trip short.

But consumers can take advantage of additional discount-heavy shopping days like Small Business Saturday and Cyber Monday to find great deals on a wide range of items.

Take retail holiday savings one step further by penciling in time to comparison shop on these popular days when retailers compete for customers.

• Look for almost-new gifts. Mobile providers may market the latest model smartphone as upping the ante with new bells and whistles, but chances are last year’s model is just as user-friendly at a fraction of the cost. The same can be said for other gadgets like wireless headphones and smart TVs. Last year’s models may be heavily discounted, particularly online, but just as impressive as their more expensive successors.

• Keep shipping costs in mind. The sticker price of certain items, particularly large ones, is likely not the whole story regarding how much the item will cost. Certain items, like trampolines for kids or a new armchair for Dad, will likely cost considerably more than the sticker price alone. Shipping on small items may be free at various • Establish gift value limits. No one has been immune online retailers, but that likely won’t to the effects of inflation over the last be the case with larger items. The year-plus. So family members likely cost of shipping some heavy items might be as much as one-third the won’t have a problem establishing cost of the item itself. Shoppers spending limits this year. Work together with relatives to determine should keep that in mind and build a reasonable limit to spend on each potential shipping costs into their gift. For example, a $50 per gift limit holiday budgets. can ensure everyone gets a quality It’s easy to overspend come the gift without going into debt. holiday season. However, various strategies make it easy to stay within • Shop on retail holidays.

Black Friday was once the only game budget when shopping for gifts for in town regarding retail holidays. family and friends.

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HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE 2023

The Northern Virginia Daily & The Winchester Star

Tips for organizing a workplace gift exchange

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to Christmas or Chanukah. Specify that gift wrap should be completely voluntary. Only those who choose to participate will exchange with others. be generic as well.

The easiest way to do this is to collect the gifts, • Recognize that gift-giving flows then hand out grab bag numbers, enabling all downward. The general rule of the workplace participants to grab a random gift from the bag is that people at the same employment level or table. Also, gifts should not be highly personal can give gifts among themselves, but employees or anything that may be viewed as offensive. should not feel pressured to give gifts to their • Keep some spare gifts on hand. supervisors or bosses. Should one choose to do It’s happened before when someone has so, it could be misinterpreted and may cause rumblings across the company. If supervisors and become ill or simply forgotten to bring a gift to the exchange. Human resource managers or managers want to gift their subordinates, then • Defer to company rules. Companies department heads may want to use an expense that is fine so long as everyone is treated fairly. may have guidelines in place that govern gifting. account to have a spare gift or two on hand so Check employee handbooks or company policies, • Decide on a spending limit. Set a that no participant walks away empty-handed. firm spending limit. A range of $15 to $20 may which may dictate spending limits or even • Exchange at the party. If an office be affordable to most, and ensures a nice gift. prohibit gift-giving.

However, if yours is a laid back environment and party is part of the plan, the gift exchange can • Keep it holiday nonspecific. everyone is lighthearted, you can have gag gifts or take place there at a certain point in the festivities Companies feature staff from various cultures, set a silly amount for laughs, such as purchasing where it will be convenient for all involved. ethnicities and religious backgrounds. Therefore, gifts only at the local dollar store.

Office gift exchanges are common during the resist any urge to affiliate the gift exchange with a specific holiday. Keep terms generalized, holiday season. A few guidelines can keep such • Do not pressure participation. avoiding the use of “Secret Santa” or references exchanges festive and fun.

Engaging in a company-wide gift exchange he average person will spend around eight hours at work each day, and do so roughly five days a week. Over time, relationships with coworkers may grow, and many people become friendly with their colleagues. In such settings, it can be customary to celebrate holidays with coworkers at company-sanctioned events.

Personnel tasked with organizing the sharing of gifts across departments or the company can employ the following tips to make things run smoothly.

Give the Gift of Travel

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At Main Street Travel, we’re here to make your travel dreams a reality.

Contact us today to start planning your next journey, and let the world unfold before you, effortlessly.

Ginny Leser ginny@mainstreet-travel.com Rachel Battles rachel@mainstreet-travel.com

540-636-1634 mainstreet-travel.com

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HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE 2023

Great gifts for the family foodie

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any families feature at least one foodie.

Foodies always know the best place in town to grab a bite or when a trendy new restaurant will open its doors. But such individuals also enjoy making meals at home, and the following gift ideas can make this holiday season more flavorful for the family foodie.

• Tabletop firepit: Shoppers who want to impress their food-loving loved one with something truly unique can give a tabletop firepit. Safe for indoor use, tabletop firepits enable s’mores-loving foodies to indulge in a traditionally summertime favorite all-year-round.

Tabletop firepits are small enough to be stored on a kitchen countertop or in a cabinet. When in use, the s’mores-friendly accessory is smokeless, removing perhaps the lone disadvantage to making this beloved treat.

• Club subscription: Monthly subscriptions are a gift that can keep on giving all the way until next holiday season. Sweets lovers will undoubtedly appreciate receiving a

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box of fresh chocolates each month, while those with more unique tastes may anxiously await the day their monthly shipment of pickles arrives at their doorstep. The options are endless, ensuring there’s a monthly subscription out there to tickle every foodie’s fancy.

• Sauce sampler: Amateur sauciers may find inspiration in a sauce sampler set. Sampler set options abound, so shoppers can find something for foodies who love a spicy sauce, something more sweet or even in between.

Of course, sampler sets also provide a range of sauces, making them ideal for foodies who want something spicy tonight before pivoting to a sweeter dish tomorrow. Flavored olive oil sampler sets also can be a great gift for cooks who love to experiment with new flavors.

• Charcuterie board and knife set: Foodies who love to host their fellow food fanatics will no doubt fall in love with a new charcuterie board and knife set. A 2023 report from Kroger revealed that the supermarket chain

expected charcuterie boards to remain popular over the course of the year. That popularity makes sense, as anything from meat to cheese to fruit to crackers has a home on a charcuterie board, making the item especially appealing to foodies who routinely share their homes and love of food with friends and family.

• Espresso maker: Of course, foodies aren’t just about food. Beverages also figure prominently in many foodies’ lives. A high-end espresso maker can ground fresh beans and brew multiple cups in no time at all, making it an ideal addition to any foodie’s culinary arsenal.

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HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE 2023

The Northern Virginia Daily & The Winchester Star

Festive films that make for a perfect family movie night this season

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family movie night makes for a great way for families to bond and enjoy some relaxing time together. Such nights are a tradition in households across the globe, and they can even become a fun way for extended families to celebrate the holiday days together.

When hosting overnight guests this holiday season, hosts can plan a family movie night and line up any of these family-friendly holiday movies.

• “A Christmas Story” (1983): This beloved classic based on the writings of author Jean Shepherd focuses on young Ralphie Parker and his humorous family.

That family includes his father, played to much laughs by legendary actor Darren McGavin. All Ralphie wants for Christmas is a coveted Red Ryder air rifle, and generations of fans have enjoyed watching this film to see if Ralphie’s dream comes true.

• “Home Alone” (1990): Not unlike “A Christmas Story,” this instant classic devotes much of its story to a young boy. Eight-yearold Kevin McAllister (Macaulay Culkin) awakens to an empty house after his parents forgetfully leave him behind as they depart on a holiday trip to Paris with their extended family. That proves to be bad news for bungling burglars Harry (Joe Pesci) and Marv (Daniel Stern), who are outwitted by Kevin at every turn.

• Elf (2003): Middle-aged Buddy (Will Ferrell) grew up in the North Pole believing he is an elf, despite being significantly larger than the kind-hearted elves who

• “Jingle All the Way” (1996): Featuring a future Governor of California in the lead role, this hijinks-filled holiday classic follows the efforts of Howard Langston (Arnold Schwarzenegger) as he tries to secure the must-have gift of the season for his son, Jamie (Jake Lloyd). Howard soon finds himself competing against a father (Sinbad) who’s equally devoted to find the coveted Turbo-Man action figure.

A holiday movie night makes for a fun, family-friendly evening when hosting overnight guests during this special time of year. raised him. Upon learning he is not an actual elf, Buddy is determined to reunite with the father (James Caan) he’s never known. Hilarity ensues as the innocent Buddy ends up in the big city in search of his father.

• “It’s a Wonderful Life” (1946): Among the most beloved holiday movies ever made, this classic stars Jimmy Stewart as George Bailey, a devoted family man who set aside his own bigcity dreams to save the family business and, ultimately, his small hometown of Bedford Falls.

Lamenting some bad luck that leaves him on the cusp of financial ruin, George wishes he’d never been born, only to be shown by an especially kind and patient angelin-training (Henry Travers) how much worse off Bedford Falls and its residents might have been had George Bailey never existed.

HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE 2023

The Northern Virginia Daily & The Winchester Star

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Tailor-made gifts for on-the-go seniors

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eniors and older adults did not seem to get the memo regarding inflation. As the world continues to navigate a cost-of-living increase, internal data from Bank of America indicates that Baby Boomers (people born between 1946 and 1964) and Traditionalists (individuals born between 1928 and 1945) are spending more while younger generations are cutting back. Between May 2021 and May 2022, spending by Traditionalists increased by more than 5 percent while Baby Boomer spending rose by 2.2 percent. That uptick occurred while younger generations’ spending fell by 1.5 percent.

Seniors seem to be on the go, and that’s something holiday shoppers can keep in mind as they look for gifts for their aging parents, grandparents and others. With that in mind, shoppers can consider these gifts that align well with the lifestyles of seniors who are out and about and making the most of their free time.

• Golf clubs or additional golf gear: Data from the National Golf Foundation

indicated that more than 34 million people in the United States played golf in 2019, and 15 percent of those players were 65 and over. A new set of custom-fit clubs can help seniors take their game to the next level. Such clubs can be expensive, so they make a great tandem gift from children and grandchildren who pool their resources. If new clubs are not necessary or too costly, a single club, such as a new driver or putter, makes for a great gift as well. Gear like a new golf bag, new spikes and new coursefriendly attire also makes a great gift for seniors who love the links.

• Travel gifts: The 2023 AARP Travel Trends survey found that 85 percent of older travelers rank travel in their top three priorities for discretionary spending. The appeal of travel has not worn off for modern seniors, and shoppers can keep that in mind this holiday season. New luggage, travel miles earned through a credit card, unique experiences at senior travelers’ next destination, air tags that

can keep track of luggage, and a world travel adapter that can convert plugs in any country across the globe are just a few of the many travel gifts shoppers can give on-the-go seniors this December.

• Exercise gear: The National Council on Aging notes that adults who exercise after turning 65 continue to reap the same rewards that improve quality of life among younger men and women. In addition to boosting immunity, exercising after 65 continues to improve mood so long as seniors stay the course. Exercise gear, including attire and appropriate footwear, can reduce injury risk and help seniors feel more comfortable while breaking a sweat.

• Spa session: All that activity is good for the body, but so is a little post-activity rest and relaxation. A day at the spa, where seniors can get a massage, take a mental break and address minor aches and pains can be just the thing seniors need to recover in time for their next excursion.

Woodbine Farm Market

Gift Certificates Available!

Wymer’s Auto repAir LLC. “Your One Stop Shop”

• Computer Diagnostics • Alignments • AC Service • Brakes • Shocks & Struts • Tires • VA Inspection • Express Lube

STRASBURG

5 miles west of Strasburg, off Rt. 55 in Lebanon Church

ith your...

Let us help you w

!

g n i k a B y a d i l o H

Also choose YUMMY GOODIES from our pantry for your holiday dinners... or create a HOLIDAY BASKET for that someone special!

FRESH BAKED PIES AND COOKIES

We have a great selection of homemade Locally Grown Apples, Wines, Cheeses, Jellies, Jams, Honey, Dressings, Sauces, Pickles, Apple Butter

...and Much More!

Phone: 540-436-3340 Hours: Monday-Friday 8-5pm Open on the first and last Saturday of each month 9-1pm

GIFT CERTIFICATES AVAILABLE!

27362 Old Valley Pike Toms Brook, VA 22660

Taking Pre-Orders!

Call us today (540) 465-2729

Please check out hours at woodbinefarmmarket.com

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pen. Established professionals will appreciate the sleek and impressive Business travel took a hit during the appearance of a hand-crafted, pandemic, and a spring 2023 report customized fountain pen, which from the research firm Morning can be used to pen memos or sign Consult predicted that it may never important documents in style. return to what was considered 3. Temperature-controlled normal prior to the pandemic.

However, the report indicated that smart mug the average business traveler is now Caffeine is the secret behind younger and earning less than the many a professional’s success. A average business traveler before the temperature-controlled smart mug pandemic. That makes luggage an can ensure your favorite corporate ideal gift for the up-and-coming executive’s coffee maintains its ideal professional who may be traveling temperature no matter how hectic more and could benefit from some the day becomes. stylish, sturdy and durable luggage.

4. Yoga sessions 2. Fountain pen Stress is part of the job for many Few small items exude a greater successful professionals. In fact, the sense of sophistication and success American Institute of Stress reports than a high-end, engraved fountain that 94 percent of workers report

having chronic stress at work. The competitive nature of the corporate world may not afford many opportunities to decompress during the workday, but the National Institutes of Health reports that yoga can play an effective role in reducing stress and anxiety.

Some yoga sessions, which can be purchased from a local yoga studio or even through an app users can access on their smart TVs, can be just what successful executives need to unwind in a healthy way after a long day at the office.

4 unique gifts for busy professionals

T

he holiday season is synonymous with giving.

Families engage in gift-giving come the holiday season to show their loved ones how much they appreciate them. Such sentiments are thoughtful and can have a big impact when shoppers find the perfect gift.

The perfect gift can be elusive.

No one wants to give a gift that won’t end up being used, and some people on shoppers’ lists may prove more difficult to shop for than others. That might be the case with busy professionals who are seemingly always working.

This holiday season, shoppers can consider these four unique gift ideas for loved ones climbing their way up the corporate ladder.

1. Luggage

Successful professionals have a lot on their plate. A gift that can make their workdays better is sure to be a hit this holiday season.

Our Shop is brimming with Christmas

THE EDINBURG MILL

Black Friday

Every sale in the GIFT SHOP helps support th e Edinburg Heritage F oundati “Save the M on ill” project

Museum / Visitor Center / Gift Shop Open Daily! Mon - Sat 9:30-5:30/Sun Noon-5

Edinburg Mill Restaurant Check for latest hours: www.edinburgmillrestaurant.com

Heritage Mill Wine Shop v, v v v v

“An unexpected treasure.”

Wed- Sat 11:30-6:30

540-984-8400 • EdinburgMill.com

214 South Main St • Edinburg VA

November 24th

Enter for a chance to win!

Every $10 spent enters you to win one of 4 $25 gift cards.

15

% EVERYTHING OFF

(Excluding Furniture, Fine Jewelry, & Silent Auction Items), Discounts/Coupons cannot be combined. Highest Discount will be applied.

DID YOU KNOW? All proceeds from our thrift shops directly benefit Blue Ridge Hospice. Your donations and purchases help make it possible for our patients to receive the best quality of care and services.

+1 (540) 313-9200 | info@BlueRidgeHospice.org www.BlueRidgeHospice.org @BRHospice | @BRHospiceThriftShops

HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE 2023

The Northern Virginia Daily & The Winchester Star

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Holiday shopping for those who seemingly have it all

M

ade-for-TV movies often depict holiday shopping in the best possible light. The story’s protagonist wanders into the town center and easily finds everything on his or her list at a series of perfectly decorated local boutiques that have nary a shopper in sight. Hot chocolate or mulled cider and repartee also tends to be par for the television movie course.

the season can be eclipsed when a person doesn’t know where to begin when shopping for those people who seem to have it all.

The following ideas can help shoppers who are stuck on what to buy for that loved one who already has it all.

• Consider experiences. A recent Harris Group study found People in the real world understand 72 percent of millennials prefer to spend money on experiences that holiday shopping doesn’t always work so smoothly. Certainly rather than things. If the person on your shopping list has just about shopping local is a great way to every material possession one can avoid the crowds and introduce imagine, giving unique experiences shoppers to more unique gift might be the way to go. The options, but it’s impossible to National Retail Federation confirms remove every obstacle in holiday the shift in attitude, noting shopping — particularly getting consumers across all age groups stumped over shopping for that now spend more on experiences particularly difficult person on than they did in years past. your list. The holly jolly nature of

Happy Holidays STONE HOUSE FLOORS FAITH FAMILY AND FLOORS Our Installers Have Been With Us For Over 20 Years!

Gift Certificates Available • All Major Brands • Water Proof Flooring • Ceramic Tile • Carpet • Hardwood • Vinyl • Sales & Professional Installation • FREE Estimates • Carpet Binding Specialist

28910 Old Valley Pike Strasburg, VA 22657 Phone: 540-465-8055 • Fax: 540-465-9545 www.stonehousefloorsva.com • stonehousefloors@gmail.com Family owned and operated for over 50 years!

• Consolidate memories.

Technology continues to evolve, which means that the way music, videos and photos are captured and stored is always changing.

Unless a person has older gear, it’s no longer possible to watch a VHS tape featuring a family member’s graduation ceremony or reprint photographs that are on film negatives. However, shoppers can work with a company that will transfer media onto a new format, such as a thumb drive or in a cloud-based account. This can be a heartfelt gift for someone who wants to reminisce.

various subscriptions. If a person is missing flavors from a home country, have delicacies shipped so the recipient can enjoy a taste of their childhood.

• Make a family cookbook.

Enlist the help of other family members and compile beloved family recipes. Utilize a cookbook publishing service to compile all of these recipes together. Then gift recipients can revisit their favorites time and again.

• Trace family lineage. If the gift recipient is a history buff or is interested in his or her family tree, then a membership to an • Food or beverage ancestry service could be an ideal subscription. Everyone needs gift. Individuals can spend hours to eat (and drink), so there is always uncovering distant relations and a need for tasty offerings. Introduce studying their family history in the process. loved ones to new foods with

ANNOUNCING: OUR LAST CHRISTMAS TOGETHER Closing January 2024

All good things do come to an end.

It is time for Liz to try other things on that bucket list.

NEW CHRISTMAS ITEMS AVAILABLE THIS YEAR Your special orders CAN be filled!!!!

Also…half price on all LIZ ITEMS from OTHER SEASONS!!!

DEALS WILL BE AMAZING!!!

Thank you for 8 years of fun. Please stop by to say hello at least one more time!

For Our Regular Hours: Visit our Facebook Page

EXTENDED DECEMBER HOURS

Tues., Thurs., Sat. 9am-2pm • Wed. & Fri. 2-6 pm • Sun. Noon-4 pm

SHENANDOAH STUFF

@Cook’s Exxon and Country Store, Woodstock, VA • Under the NAPA sign!

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Taking the best Christmas card photo

By DINA ZELDEN

W

hether this is your first year sending a family Christmas card, or you are struggling to get toddlers (or teens) to comply with your photo shoot requests, here are tips that will make your Christmas card one you are proud to share with friends and family.

The one thing that will help make all your decisions, is style! What style photo best reflects your family this year? Perusing some photo card websites will help give you some ideas. As a matter of fact, choosing the design will help determine what kind of photo you should take.

Modern For a modern look, choose casual clothing that is complementary.

Plaids work well, as do muted and neutral colors. Stick with a simple background, plain or with just a single focal point. Everyday shots of your family life also give a modern feel.

Classic Jewel tones work well, as do coordinating outfits for a classic look.

Holiday backgrounds such as the Christmas tree with twinkling lights or the fireplace evoke a cozy feel. Try candid shots of a traditional activity such as baking cookies or decorating the tree.

Fun and Festive This style is great when kids or pets are involved. You could go all out with matching outfits and even Santa hats. Action shots, playing with snow, or relaxing at the beach also give that fun vibe you want to achieve.

While styles may differ, these tips for great photos remain the same: • Don’t try to cram too many photos on one card. If you can’t choose from a year’s worth of great shots, try using a QR code to link to a photo montage or highlight video. This is a trendy, modern spin on the traditional holiday letter.

• Don’t stretch your photo to fill the space. This will result in a low quality image. Use images with at least 300 dpi for best quality.

• Don’t rely on the screen. What is printed, will generally be darker than what you see on the computer. For the best results be sure to lighten your photos before printing.

• Take lots of photos so you can choose the best to send to family and friends. Stay relaxed and most of all, remember that your photo will capture this time in your family’s life and become a treasured keepsake for years to come.

HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE 2023

The Northern Virginia Daily & The Winchester Star

Christmas Breakfast Casserole

Christmas Tree Cupcakes

Ingredients

Ingredients

By NELLIE PALMER

Directions

• 1 lb ground sausage 1 Preheat large skillet and add • 1/2 green pepper, diced sausage. Brown sausage, add • 1/2 red pepper, diced peppers and onions. Cook until • 3 spring onions, diced peppers and onions are soft. Let • 8 eggs mixture cool.

• 1 1/2 cups milk 2 Preheat oven to 350°. Combine • Salt and pepper to taste eggs, milk, salt and pepper in large • 1 tsp dried Italian blend herbs or bowl. Whisk well. Add cooked 1 tsp each: fresh chopped basil, sausage and peppers, green onions, oregano and rosemary (optional) herbs, half of the cheese and all of • 1 day old French baguette, chopped the bread in a large bowl. Mix well in cubes and pour into casserole dish.

• 1 8 oz package shredded mild 3 Top with the other half of the cheddar cheese cheese. Bake for 30 minutes covered. Remove foil and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until nicely browned.

By NELLIE PALMER 5P lace thin pretzel sticks on waxed or parchment paper.

• Box cake mix - any flavor • White cake icing • Coconut flakes • Wilton green chocolate discs • Thin pretzel rods • Multi-color candy sprinkles

6M elt green chocolate using directions

Directions 1P repare cake mix as directed.

2D ivide into cup cake cups and bake.

3 L et cool.

4 S pread white icing on top and sprinkle

on bag.

7 Place melted chocolate in freezer zip lock bag or icing piping bag.

8C ut small corner from bag 9U se bag to pipe icing lines to form a Christmas tree on top of pretzel sticks, sprinkle with candy sprinkles while candy is still wet. Let harden.

10 P lace Christmas tree on each cup cake.

with coconut flakes to resemble snow.

Open 7 Days Extended Holiday Hours Irish Belleek • Galway Crystal • Mullingar Pewter • Handmade Knitwear Highland Wear • Kilts & Rentals • Hand Crafted Celtic & “Outlander Inspired” JewelryFood Items • Linens • Pottery • Old Whaling and Fragrances of Ireland Music • Leather Goods • Liffey Artifacts • Wacky Woolies & Guinness Licensed Products Bagpiping Services for any Occasion, Supplies, and Lessons by Appointment 32 E. Piccadilly St., Winchester, VA 22601 • 540-545-4077

32 E. Piccadilly St. • Winchester, VA 22601

540.545.4077

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