Holiday Gift Guide 2024

Holiday gift guide 2024

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Wednesday, November 6, 2024

HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE 2024

The Northern Virginia Daily & The Winchester Star

Holiday pies: Melting Pot Pizza serves up taste of home for those near and far

By Laura Ruby

The Northern Virginia Daily

FRONT ROYAL — For many locals, Melting Pot Pizza is the taste of home.

After 52 years in business, the restaurant on West 14th Street has developed a loyal following.

“We see some customers three or four times a week, which is amazing. It’s a fun place to hang out,” said owner and general manager Elliott Bachelor.

For many local families, it is the place for celebrating the end of the soccer season, an impromptu family reunion or an informal holiday party, Bachelor said, adding that the Melting Pot is often the first stop for former Front Royal residents Rich Cooley/Daily who return home over the Elliott Bachelor, general manager/owner of Melting Pot Pizza in Front Royal, holds one of the restaurant’s all the holiday season to visit family. way pizza pies while Bobbie Rose Santellano, manager, pulls a pizza out of the oven. Bachelor is maintaining the “We are very, very busy around the holidays,” Bachelor said.

“The day before and after Thanksgiving are two of the busiest days here. Everyone is in town visiting family. School is out. People are home on military leave. This is their first stop. They usually stop here before they even go home. It really is funny.”

Front Royal hotspot that his late father started years ago.

the ideal gift for those missing the taste of home.

Kristie Henry Felt grew up in Front Royal and moved to the Houston area in 2012.

“We really miss Melting Pot pizza. There is nothing like it,” Felt said recently by phone, adding that she has frozen And, for those who can’t make Melting Pot pizzas shipped to it into the 14th Street location, her Texas home at least twice a the eatery ships its frozen pizzas year. “We order 10 at a time and across the country — perhaps have them shipped to Houston.

Ten fit nicely in the box.”

Felt said the thin-crust pizza brings back good memories of spending time at the restaurant and eating there with family and friends.

“They’re hard to travel with for two days like that so it’s better to have them ship it the correct way.”

Bachelor said that Melting Pot fully cooks pizzas for “Every other year, we visit back shipment, but doesn’t take home. On those visits, we pretty them off the baking pan so that much eat at Melting Pot every the crust does not crisp. Once day,” Felt said, adding that in they’re cool, the pizza is shrink the past they have taken some partially cooked and frozen pies wrapped and frozen.

PIZZAS continued on PAGE 3 on the trip home with them.

HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE 2024

The Northern Virginia Daily & The Winchester Star

PIZZAS continued from PAGE 2

“So that when you finish cooking it, the crust hasn’t dried out so it still has that fresh dough feeling to it even though everything on top has been cooked,” Bachelor said. “They

Wednesday, November 6, 2024

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turn out great.”

Bachelor said that to purchase frozen pizzas, customers should contact Diana Settle at the Postal Business Center on North Royal Avenue. Settle handles the entire process, taking the pizza order, payment and arranging shipment. She said that pizzas are shipped overnight.

Bachelor said orders are accepted Monday through Thursday as the restaurant is too busy over the weekends to process pizzas for shipment.

Rich Cooley/Daily

He said that shipping cross Hunter Tobin, left, and Kendall Ramey, right, work in the Melting Pot kitchen country has slowed since COVID assembling pizzas. as costs have risen, but Melting After talking about her love for The restaurant also sells gift Pot does sell many frozen and Melting Pot, Felt added, “Now I cards for local customers. partially cooked pizzas to area Rich Cooley/Daily really want to come visit and eat They are not available online, residents who like to take them Emily Kingrea adds mozzarella cheese to the sauced pizza crusts. home or on vacation. some pizza.”

Bachelor said.

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Wednesday, November 6, 2024

HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE 2024

The Northern Virginia Daily & The Winchester Star

New, handmade or vintage, Christmas ornaments make great gifts

By Ashley Miller

Lobby. So, now I try to put a bit more thought in what I get.”

STRASBURG — For many people at the holiday season, giving Christmas ornaments is a beloved tradition. Available in all shapes and sizes, styles and colors, ornaments sometimes carry stories passed down through generations.

In the first few weeks of November, Haynes will shift her sales floor from Halloween to Christmas, welcoming displays of new, handmade and vintage ornaments.

The Northern Virginia Daily

“Over the years I’ve actually steered people toward gifting an ornament because it’s a thoughtful gift, especially if it’s a cool vintage ornament in a nice price range,” said Susan “Sue” Haynes, owner of Clementine Vintage in downtown Strasburg.

“I’ve recently ordered from a company I hadn’t before,” she said. Some of the newer ornaments will be made of resin or enamel and will hold specific meanings, which Haynes said is important to those who gift ornaments.

“There’s nothing like bringing out an ornament each year, putting it on the tree and “I feel like it’s almost like thinking about the person who you’ve curated a specific present gifted it to you,” Haynes said. for someone, especially if you know that person is really going Cardinals and angels will be to resonate with that ornament.” among this year’s ornament collection. Cardinals, Haynes Haynes looks forward to explained, are a thoughtful gift transforming her shop at 148 E. to give to someone who has lost King St. for the holiday season, a loved one. especially when it comes time to unwrap her assortment of “It’s more than just our state holiday ornaments — some bird,” she said. “So many she’s been collecting since the people love cardinals because previous Christmas. it’s generally a sweet reminder that their loved one is looking “The first year or two I was out for them.” open, I was looking for ornaments that I could sell for Similarly with angels or in under $5, so customers could Haynes’s case — hummingbirds, load up,” she explained. “And a reminder of her father. then I realized that people could get those at places like Hobby When she’s seeking ornaments

Ashley Miller/Daily Newer ornaments, such as this “A Very Merry Christmas,” cutout were popular in 2023.

to sell, Haynes keeps an eye out for those that are sparkly and shiny, noting that not everyone needs an emotional connection to an ornament hanging on their tree.

“Sometimes they just want

something pretty,” she said.

Tea ball ornaments will return this Christmas season, handmade by Haynes herself.

“I did some last year, and they ORNAMENTS continued on PAGE 5

The Northern Virginia Daily & The Winchester Star

ORNAMENTS continued from PAGE 4

did so well I find myself always picking up old tea balls and putting crystals on them.

Who doesn’t know someone who likes tea?”

Vintage ornaments such as Santa or Frosty might make an appearance, said Haynes, who’s been adding to her vintage collection over the past year. Haynes said she’s sourced more vintage wooden handpainted ornaments, adding that they’re mostly made of particle board.

“I guess everyone had a kit and would paint an ornament together,” she said.

Haynes said she likes to offer a wide variety, in a reasonable price range. “A few years ago, I had a beautiful crystal ornament that was around $20, and I had so many people getting them because they were part of a gift exchange and had to shop within a budget.”

HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE 2024

Wednesday, November 6, 2024

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There will also be some tiny toy soldiers, which Haynes said could make for a great gift tag on a present.

“It gives your present a little something extra special,” she said.

Not all giftable ornaments have to be hung on a tree. Haynes said ornaments make great home decor, but she mostly appreciates the tradition building and sentiment they each bring.

“When I gift an ornament, I want it to resonate with me or the person that I gave it to,” Haynes said, acknowledging that she’s always gifting ornaments to her children and grandchildren. She even takes a black Sharpie and writes, in small letters, the year the ornament was given.

Clementine Vintage is located at 174 E King St. and is open Wednesday through Saturday noon to 6 p.m. and Sunday noon to 5 p.m.

Ashley Miller/Daily A vintage Santa Claus is among the curated collection of ornaments sold at Clementine Vintage in Strasburg. Each year brings a little something different, said Clementine Vintage owner Susan “Sue” Haynes.

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Wednesday, November 6, 2024

HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE 2024

Add seasonal bazaars to your list of holiday shopping locations There is no shortage of options to find every item on your holiday shopping list. Shopping malls, online retailers and mom and pop stores along Main Street can be great spots to grab holiday deals, but shoppers also can find great gifts at holiday fairs and bazaars.

Holiday bazaars often pop up during the holiday season and mimic international marketplaces. They may be hosted by cities or towns, schools or places of worship.

Sometimes they are fundraising opportunities, with nonprofit organizations charging a stallor table-renting fee for bazaar participants. Holiday fairs and bazaars often bring together an array of different retailers, many of whom are small businesses selling interesting wares.

discover new firms they were previously unacquainted with. · SHOP UNIQUE WARES. Holiday bazaars may showcase items not easily found elsewhere, from handcrafted jewelry to unique soaps to custom woodworking items. · DEVELOP NEW RELATIONSHIPS. Shopping at holiday bazaars enables you to meet and interact with new people. This can expand your social circles and may even expand your professional network.

· ENJOY THE SHOPPING EXPERIENCE. Shopping away from the bustle of larger, busier retail stores gives you a break from the harried shopping experience many experience during the holiday season.

Rather, holiday fairs and bazaars Shoppers should take advantage typically are less crowded and of every opportunity to visit engage at a slower pace. Plus, these holiday bazaars because they may have a more homespun they will only be around for decorating design that can have a short time. Here’s a look at you feeling like you’re shopping some of the benefits of bazaar in a Christmas village. shopping for the holidays. · TAKE ADVANTAGE OF · PATRONIZE SMALL FOOD VENDORS. Food BUSINESSES. Holiday vendors likely will be mixed bazaars often bring together within the offerings of the small businesses that may not holiday bazaar. That gives you normally have storefronts. This opportunity to take the day off allows shoppers to meet the from cooking and enjoy some individuals behind businesses savory and sweet bites while they already patronize or grabbing gifts.

The Northern Virginia Daily & The Winchester Star

LOCAL HOLIDAY BAZAARS November 23-24 • Kris Kringle Market: More than 100 vendors are expected at historic Belle Grove Plantation near Middletown on Nov. 23-24 from 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Come get in the seasonal spirit and enjoy holiday shopping while supporting local artisans and businesses. There also will be food and warm beverages for sale, as well as “Storytime with Santa.” Belle Grove is located at 336 Belle Grove Road.

November 30-December 1 • Shenandoah Potters Guild 28th annual Holiday Pottery Show & Sale: On display, and available for purchase, will be hundreds of unique works created by many members of the guild, ranging from functional pottery to art pieces. This is a highly anticipated holiday tradition in the Northern Shenandoah Valley and the perfect place to shop for unique, one-of-a-kind gifts. The event is 10 a.m.-4 p.m.

Nov. 30-Dec. 1 in the War Memorial Building in Jim Barnett Park, 1001 E. Cork St., Winchester. For more information: https://shenandoahpottersguild258631015. wordpress.com

December 6, 7, 8 • Winchester Winter Village: Be transported to a cozy European-style holiday market in historic Old Town Winchester this Christmas. A village of food and crafts vendors will be at the heart of the Loudoun Street Mall, and many shops will be decked out for the holidays and offering specials for shoppers. Building on last year’s tremendously popular event, the 2024 Winchester Winter Village will offer a redesigned and improved village of holiday vendors, expanded live music and caroling, and even more festive holiday lights and decorations. The event begins on Friday, Dec. 6, with a Santa Crawl to benefit the nonprofit Froggy’s Closet. Purchase a ticket to participate and visit local restaurants, breweries, and bars for live music, raffle prizes, and discounted holiday drinks and food specials. Then on Saturday, Dec. 7, and Sunday, Dec. 8, stroll the Loudoun Street Mall for live caroling and music, demonstrative vendors, artisan craft vendors, and a Kinder Village with Santa, the Grinch, and children’s activities. You can grab a warm serving of Gluhwein, a traditional hot mulled spiced red wine, from a participating restaurant and carry it with you as you shop. Several restaurants will also offer Kinderpunsch, a warm spiced cider just for kids. This is an open-air market and free to attend. For more information, go to https://visitwinchesterva.com/event/winchester-winter-village/.

(For more information about local holiday bazaars, a list was published in The Winchester Star on Oct. 4: https://www.winchesterstar.com/ winchester_star/2024-fall-and-holiday-bazaars/article_9b6cf41b-0ecc5fc9-a3ed-d950edb92f54.html)

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The Northern Virginia Daily & The Winchester Star

HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE 2024

Wednesday, November 6, 2024

2024 HSSC HOLIDAY FUND DRIVE

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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 HSSC Spay/Neuter voicemail: 540-421-4842 Email info@hsscva.org Follow us on Facebook and Instagram!

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Wednesday, November 6, 2024

HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE 2024

The Northern Virginia Daily & The Winchester Star

Marketing plans are key for small businesses ahead of a tough holiday shopping season

By Mae Anderson The Associated Press

NEW YORK — The holidays are the busiest time of year for many small retailers and other businesses.

doing to have a successful holiday season are improving their efficiency (35%), offering special promotions or discounts (28%) and creating an end-ofyear marketing strategy (26%).

Starting early is key.

But the holidays this year could be particularly challenging.

Although inflation has retreated, small businesses are still dealing with high costs and consumers have been tightening the purse strings, too.

“Small businesses are incredibly resilient, but as they head into a holiday season filled with uncertainty, they must get proactive in their marketing to ensure success,” said Sarah Jordan, chief marketing officer at Constant Contact. “The (small Stepping up marketing is one businesses) who thrive will be way to bolster holiday results. the ones who start their holiday In a survey by email marketing marketing early, streamline their firm Constant Contact, 51% of work with automations, and small business owners said they engage customers consistently believe social media marketing throughout the season.” and email marketing have the biggest impact on their holiday Another quirk of the season: goals.

Hanukkah doesn’t start until Dec. 25 this year, so that will Kristen Tarnol owns Emerald stretch out the season. Tarnol of Forest Gifts in Studio City, Emerald City Gifts plans to start her marketing Nov. 1, so that California. The shop has been means more than two months of open for 37 years, so Tarnol holiday marketing. has a significant number of returning customers each year.

But marketing is still key, she “Usually, we are recovering said. between Christmas and New Years, but this year, we will be going, going, going, until after “I have to continue to bring in new clients as well so we’ll use Jan. 2,” she said. both email and social,” she said.

“Also, I plan to try some events Constant Contact polled owners this year in the shop to raise of more than 1,600 small businesses with 250 employees everyone’s festive energy.” or less in August in the U.S., U.K., Australia and the United The top three things small Kingdom. business owners say they’re

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The Northern Virginia Daily & The Winchester Star

HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE 2024

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Wednesday, November 6, 2024

HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE 2024

The Northern Virginia Daily & The Winchester Star

Gifts for holiday hosts Millions of people open their homes to relatives and friends each holiday season. Taking on the task of holiday host can be a labor of love, as it involves not only a commitment of time, but also a financial investment.

Lending Tree reported that 60 percent of Americans considering hosting holiday gatherings in 2023 expected to spend an average of $556 on their celebrations. Six-figure earners planned to spend even more, indicating they expected to spend $764 on holiday hosting.

· KITCHEN TOOLS OR SERVING ITEMS: A beautiful olive wood serving platter or cutting board might be appreciated, particularly if guests arrive with it covered in a charcuterie spread.

Guests benefiting from holiday hosts’ hospitality can offer tokens of their appreciation upon arrival. The following are some great gifts to offer hosts this holiday season.

· HOLIDAY ORNAMENT OR DECORATIVE PIECE: Guests can offer ornaments for the tree or another decorative item for hosts who are repeat entertainers. Dating the decoration or having it engraved can transform it into a memento hosts can relish through the years.

· SCENTED CANDLE: Hosts can set the mood and add to the ambiance of an entertaining space with lit, scented candles, which make for a great gift.

Guests can inquire as to the hosts’ preferred aromas or stick with safe bets like vanilla or cinnamon.

· BEVERAGE OF CHOICE: A bottle of wine or another spirit can be a great gift for holiday gatherings. Let hosts decide if they want to serve it with the meal or save it to enjoy at a later · COMFORT AND CARE ASSORTMENT: Hosting takes time. effort, so a box of items to · CURATED FOOD BASKET: pamper holiday hosts can be A guest can put together a a great gift. Fill the box with basket of different foods, a loofah, bath bombs, shower including crackers, cheeses, gel, moisturizing cream, and jams, bread sticks, and other massage oil. items that can be enjoyed as snacks or appetizers.

Holiday hosts invest time and · HOLIDAY PLANT: A poinsettia or Christmas cactus may be fitting this time of year, and a holiday host can enjoy seeing it grow during the season.

money into making their homes welcoming spaces to spend the holidays. Guests can treat these hosts with gifts to show how much their efforts and hospitality are appreciated.

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The Northern Virginia Daily & The Winchester Star

HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE 2024

Wednesday, November 6, 2024

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Wednesday, November 6, 2024

HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE 2024

The Northern Virginia Daily & The Winchester Star

Holiday shopping tips you can’t afford to miss hung up on perceived deep discounts from Black Friday and Cyber Monday offers. However, industry experts say there often isn’t a huge difference in markdowns between these promotions and those during other sales. Some retailers even increase prices on goods only to mark them down for Black Friday to make it appear that there is a discount. Only by knowing the average price for items can you know if a sale is legitimate.

The festive and fun nature of the holiday season can make it easy to forget the benefits of being frugal. Many people go overboard on holiday spending, making this time of year costly for consumers.

Sales between the beginning of November 2023 and Christmas Eve 2023 climbed 3.1 percent from the year earlier, according to the Mastercard SpendingPulse. The National Retail Federation reported in November 2023 that holiday spending was expected to reach between $957 and $966 billion. Trading Economics, a financial market indicator and forecast provider, said personal spending in the United States only rose 0.2 percent in May 2024 from the previous month, which marked the lowest increase since January 2024.

a separate email account for in-store and online shopping.

Then you can sign up for the rewards programs at checkout.

Utilize the coupon codes and advertisements for sales to save money without having your primary email data shared with other marketers. · TRACK SPENDING CAREFULLY. If you don’t know how much you’re spending, then you cannot possibly stick to a budget. After each purchase, keep a running tally of all holiday spending to see how far you are from the finish line.

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· BEGIN SHOPPING EARLY. Start scouring ads and looking Shoppers who want to spend for deals prior to Thanksgiving less and stick to a budget for holiday entertaining and gifting or Black Friday. Keep a running can keep these budgeting tips in list of gift ideas and when the price is right, purchase those mind. items. · SET A VALUE TO GIFT · PRICE CHECK “PERFECT RECIPIENTS. It may sound harsh, but certain people on GIFTS.” If you’ve spotted the holiday shopping lists may perfect gift for someone but it’s be assigned a higher value beyond budget, see if you can than others. For example, you find a better price elsewhere, wouldn’t necessarily spend says Better Money Habits. There the same amount on a gift for are apps that allow users to scan a child’s teacher as you would barcodes and check items across for a grandmother. Putting a various retailers. Many stores dollar figure next to each name also have price-match policies on the shopping list helps you that can save shoppers money. identify your expected spending and where you can cut back, if · LOOK FOR DEALS ALL OF necessary.

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The Northern Virginia Daily & The Winchester Star

HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE 2024

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HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE 2024

Wednesday, November 6, 2024

The Northern Virginia Daily & The Winchester Star

Make holiday crafting a family affair This time of year is one for dabbling in creative pursuits.

Now is a prime opportunity to bond with children over a table full of paint, glue, beads, and other crafty supplies. The crafts made during the holidays often become cherished mementos that will be regarded fondly for years to come. Here are some ideas to inspire holiday creativity.

SNOWMAN FAMILY Handprint crafts are popular among children. Adults and children can dip their hands into washable white paint and make a handprint stamp on a small canvas, wooden palette or even a terracotta flowerpot.

Decorate the white fingerprints with black dots to look like the faces of the snowmen and paint on top hats and scarves. In the years to come, artists can marvel at how small their hand prints once were.

WINE CORK REINDEER Repurpose wine corks by crafting adorable little reindeer.

Two corks make up the head

and the body, and four vertically will comprise the feet. Stick on googly eyes, and add a small red or black bead for the nose.

Pipe cleaners can be bent to form the reindeer’s antlers.

FAMILY GARLANDS This craft also makes use of handprints. Ask all family members to trace their handprints on different colors of construction paper or card stock. Cut out all of the paper hands, punch holes in the tops and then string a ribbon through. Decorate the Christmas tree or a mantle with this garland.

MINI CHRISTMAS TREES Paint the tips of gathered pine cones with green paint and allow to dry. Add white glitter or paint as “snow.” Glue the pine cones to wine corks that will serve as the tree trunks, and attach a small wooden star to the top of the trees for the finishing touch.

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ball ornaments. Cover with small scraps of cut fabric or paper dipped in craft glue or Mod Podge®, and attach to the ornament in an overlapping fashion. Remember to add a string from which the ornament can be hung on the tree. Allow to dry completely before use.

little inspiration can consider a religious symbol, the face of a reindeer, a snowman, or a Christmas tree. Hang the chain and then children can take turns ripping off a link from the bottom each day as they count down to the holiday.

PAPER CHAIN ADVENT CALENDAR Cut strips of paper to make a link for every day of Advent.

Advent begins on Sunday, December 1, 2024, and lasts until Christmas. The top link can be any design artists prefer, but those who need a

POPSICLE STICK SNOWFLAKES Paint four popsicle sticks per snowflake in desired colors.

Decorate with glue, pompoms, beads, or other trinkets. Add small looped strings to hang the ornaments.

The Northern Virginia Daily & The Winchester Star

HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE 2024

Wednesday, November 6, 2024

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ANNUAL TRADITIONS! It’s the most wonderful time of the year for classic movies, like Elf, The Polar Express and It’s a Wonderful Life.

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 blockbuster 2025 featuring new movies like Avatar: Fire and Ash, Snow White and Captain America: Brave New World. Gift cards are available at the theater box office or Alamo website.

Featured Holiday Movies

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Wednesday, November 6, 2024

HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE 2024

The Northern Virginia Daily & The Winchester Star

Make shopping Black Friday/Cyber Monday pay off Historically, Black Friday has been the busiest day for retailers, but Cyber Monday has increasingly become a go-to holiday shopping opportunity.

Now largely known as BFCM, Black Friday Cyber Monday is undoubtably the busiest time of year for retailers. These days can be a make-or-break period for many merchants. According to Drip, an e-commerce customer data aggregator, Cyber Monday was the biggest shopping day in 2023, with shoppers spending $12.4 billion - a 9.6 percent yearover-year increase. The National Retail Federation reported a record 200.4 million shoppers participated in Black Friday and Cyber Monday sales in 2023.

As people consider their BFCM shopping plans for 2024, these tips can help them make the most of these unique opportunities. · BECOME A PRICE CONNOISSEUR. Consumers who would feel right at home calling out correct prices on “The Price is Right” will have an advantage come the

holiday shopping season. By understanding the standard retail price on many items, it is easier to know just how customer-friendly BFCM deals are. Consumers can look at the advertisements in newspapers or online and only shop the best deals to save money.

given early access to sales or special coupon codes that can bring prices down even further.

Some retailers also may utilize digital coupons that need to be “clipped,” which is basically saving them to a loyalty account.

only shopping for necessary items is an effective way to avoid overspending.

· DON’T FORGET SMALL BUSINESSES. Be sure to check out the sales at local small businesses during BFCM as · PLAN THE SHOPPING LIST well as Small Business Saturday.

Shoppers may find that deals at · PAY ATTENTION TO EARLY IN ADVANCE. A complete smaller retailers rival those at BIRD DEALS. BFCM is a great shopping list at the ready larger chains. opportunity to save, and many can make it easier to shop for specific items during Black retailers have extended this exclusive price-slashing period Friday or Cyber Monday hours. Black Friday and Cyber Monday to offer “sneak peeks” and · AVOID IMPULSE BUYING. present chances to save. Making “early bird” opportunities that the most of these shopping It may be tempting to grab precede Black Friday and Cyber many different items because opportunities can translate Monday. Shoppers can keep an the prices seem so good. to scoring holiday gifts at the eye out for early BFCM deals to However, sticking to a list and lowest prices possible. save even more money. · EXPLORE LOYALTY REWARDS. Shoppers who are part of stores’ rewards programs, whether that entails earning loyalty points or having a store credit card, may be eligible for additional perks.

Although one’s email inbox may be overflowing this time of year with promotions, individuals should double-check their accounts to see if they’ve been

How Many People Can You Please This Holiday Season?

• Aunts & Uncles • Babysitters • Brothers & Sisters • Clergy • Clients • Coaches • Dance Teacher • Dentist • Doctors & Nurses • Employees • Friends • Grandparents

• Hair Stylist • Handyman • Housekeeper • Mail Carrier • Music Instructor • Neighbors • Paper Carrier • Parents • School Bus Driver • Scout Leader • Teachers

GREAT STOCKING STUFFER!

Shop for resale treasures at 31 W. Jubal Early Drive | Winchester, VA | 540.536.0100 Featuring gift ideas, clothing, jewelry, and more!

VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES! Scan the QR Code or Contact: ttrivet2@valleyheathlink.com All sales benefit the Hope Fund for the WMC Cancer Center

540-636-6146 138 W. 14th St., Front Royal

All of them with gift cards!

The Northern Virginia Daily & The Winchester Star

HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE 2024

ALL ARTWORK IN THE GALLERY IS ON SALE

Wednesday, November 6, 2024

NEW!

From November 29-December 23rd!

Please visit to take advantage of some great deals! with PEACH HONEY PEPPER SAUCE

Rappahannock Reconnaissance

By John Paul Strain

The print size is 19.25” by 28.75” The price is $275 Other sizes are also available.

BACON, EGG & CHEESE BISCUITS $ FOR 2 5 Offer valid through 1/29/25 at these participating locations Charlottesville, Harrisonburg, Staunton & Winchester. Please present coupon before ordering. Not good with any other offer or coupon. No substitutions. Limit one coupon per customer per visit. Not valid for delivery or order ahead.

“Peaceful day in the Valley”

By P. Buckley Moss

The image size is 4.073” by 10.84” • The price is $75

Ask Us About Our Special Framing Prices!

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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$

8pc CHICKEN & 4 BISCUITS

.99

Offer valid through 1/29/25 at these participating locations Charlottesville, Harrisonburg, Staunton & Winchester. Please present coupon before ordering. Not good with any other offer or coupon. No substitutions. Limit one coupon per customer per visit. Not valid for delivery or order ahead.

191 Gateway Dr, Winchester, VA 22603

visit us! 105 M COCHRAN STAUNTON 130 GEORGE Crock Wells Mill Dr, PKWY, Winchester, VA 22603

NEXT TIME, SKIP THE LINE! DOWNLOAD OUR APP

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HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE 2024

Wednesday, November 6, 2024

The Northern Virginia Daily & The Winchester Star

Snap a great Christmas card photo Greeting cards are among the first signs that the holiday season has arrived. Mailboxes are filled with cards and email inboxes have new messages popping up each day wishing others well.

match can seem contrived.

· PLAN AROUND NAP TIMES. If photos involve young children, schedule the photo shoot to occur when children are well-rested and fed. Now may be the time to Many of these greetings feature offer kids treats they don’t normally get in an effort to family photos. Here are some reward patience and happy tips for capturing the best smiles. family photo possible. · KEEP CARDS IN THE BACK OF YOUR MIND. While the Norman Rockwellesque family tableau or a wintry Christmas scene is a go-to holiday card, any photoworthy moment throughout the year can suffice. Keep a lookout for ideas while vacationing or enjoying time together as a family.

· AVOID RED EYE. Proper lighting can help avoid the occurrence of “red eye” in photographs, which happens when the flash bounces off a wide pupil. Asking subjects to look into bright light before the photo, or utilizing a camera that snaps a small burst of flash before the actual flash, can help alleviate this problem.

· AVOID BUSY PRINTS. Stick to solid colors when posing for holiday photos; otherwise, recipients’ eyes may not know where to look when viewing the photo. Photo subjects should coordinate, but wardrobes that completely

· EMBRACE CANDID SHOTS OR MIXUPS. Some of the funniest and most memorable photos are when things didn’t go according to plan. A crying infant or a parent looking away from the lens may not be magazine

worthy, but don’t be so quick to Position the camera lens at eye discard those less-than-perfect level or above to avoid double snaps. chins in photos. · ZOOM IN TIGHT AND CROPPED. Card recipients want to look at you and not the surroundings. Avoid landscape shots on holiday cards, and be sure to focus on the subjects’ faces as much as possible. · ANGLE CORRECTLY FOR FLATTERING PHOTOS. Adjust your body posture to look your best. Turn the lower half of your body to the side and then adjust the upper half to move slightly toward the camera to appear more svelte.

· SHOW OFF YOUR SENSE OF HUMOR. You can show friends and family you like to laugh by posing in funny ways or by mimicking pop culture references in your photo cards.

Recreate childhood photos of yore, or imitate photos from album covers or movie posters.

Relax and have fun with holiday greeting cards. Plan outfits, watch lighting and catch kids at the right time to create memorable cards.

Mowery Orchard, LLC Open Daily 9 to 5

We will be closing at 4 p.m. December 23rd and Reopen January 2nd 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 BEACH BUM TANNING & AIRBRUSH SALON Winchester • Front Royal • Martinsburg, WV By texting the keyword to 888-857-2454 you are agreeing to opt into Beach Bum Tanning’s SMS program. You can unsubscribe at any time. For SMS informational purposes only. We will never sell or share your information to third parties. Message and Data rates may apply. Message Frequency may vary. Text STOP to stop. Text HELP for Help. 1 free tan in platinum level or 1 spray in level one. Limit one per guest. @2023 Beach Bum Tanning

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 2024

You’ll Never Know What You’ll Find!

THE OTHER KIND OF JEWELRY STORE

in Edinburg in Edinburg

Upscale Jewelry & Retail Shop

540.333.8560

We carry LOTS of fine & estate jewelry, engagement rings, semi precious stones & more!

SHOWN BY APPOINTMENT ONLY Other items include: Sterling Silver Esoteric Items Crystals • Essential Oils Organic Items • Candles Cards • Collectibles Variety Of Gift Ideas!

5908 Main St., Mt. Jackson • (703) 801-5400 Tues., Wed., Fri. & Sat. 12-4pm or by appointment *except fine jewelry

Yoga is the gift that keeps giving!

Over 50 years of service!

FRI – SAT – SUN 9 AM to 5 PM

$25 OFF

Routine Septic Pumping in Shenandoah Co. www. edinburgflea .com

540-984-8771

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 • Towing Available

Hours: Monday-Friday 8-5pm Open on the first and last Saturday of each month 8-Noon

Gift Certificates Available Multi Family Pumping Discounts

A regular yoga practice can help reduce stress, anxiety and fatigue.

Good for both your mind and body, it can improve your mood, mobility, flexibility, and balance.

Yogo also helps build confidence and strength, and aid in digestion and circulation.

Treat yourself or someone you love to yoga this holiday season.

Gift certificates available at www.myrubyyoga.com 17a S. Royal Avenue Front Royal 540-303-2182

27362 Old Valley Pike Toms Brook, VA 22660 Phone: 540-436-3340

Looking for a special gift?

We have gift certificates available!

St. Luke Community Clinic is a free medical, dental, mental health, & woman’s health clinic. We serve residents of Warren County without insurance. $25 will help pay for a prescription • $50 will provide a dental visit or doctor visit • $100 will provide a mental health visit • $150 will provide a woman’s health visit • $200 will pay for dental extractions and/or filling • $500 will pay for a complete set of dentures

Patty’s Place Open 7 Days A Week Delicious Homemade Country Cookin

21874 Valley Pike Woodstock, VA 22664 Mon. - Sat. • 6am - 2pm

540-459-4292

316 N. Royal Ave., Front Royal, VA 22630 | 540-636-4325

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10% Off* With This Ad

THE FLEA MARKET

90 or Indo s h Boot

Wednesday, November 6, 2024

Sun. • 7am -2pm

Follow us on FaceBook for any Holiday closings.

ELECTRIC, INC.

RESIDENTIAL & COMMERCIAL ELECTRICAL • PLUMBING HEATING • AIR CONDITIONING One business for all your needs!

540-459-2662 • www.orttselectric.com CLIP AND SAVE THIS AD FOR 10% OFF AN ELECTRICAL PANEL CHANGE OUT OR UPGRADE!

Hand-selected finds by a wanderer ~ The handy, the unique and eclectic.

A little of life’s handy gadgets & objects ~ Things for the home to enjoy ~ candles, goat milk lotions, souvenirs, assorted kitchenware items & more!

GIFT CERTIFICATES AVAILABLE Supporting small business entrepreneurs!

Closed on Tuesday 540.325.2350 • Travelers-Treasures.com 118 North Main Street, Woodstock

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HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE 2024

Wednesday, November 6, 2024

The Northern Virginia Daily & The Winchester Star

Add a new offering to your Christmas cookie lineup The holiday season doubles as cookie season. Indeed, there’s no shortage of baking opportunities in December.

Various cookies make the rounds, and if you are tasked with bringing cookies to a function, you might be interested in something a little different.

“Santa’s Whiskers” likely get their name from the coconut on these cookies, which resemble Santa’s beard. Maraschino cherries add some jolly red to the cookies as well, making them perfect for Christmas. Try this recipe from “Butter, Flour, Sugar, Joy” (Sourcebooks) by Danielle Kartes.

SANTA’S WHISKERS

20 to 24 cookies 11/2 cups confectioner’s sugar 1 cup butter, softened

1 teaspoon vanilla extract 1/2 teaspoon almond extract 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt 11/2 cups all-purpose flour

almond extract, and salt. Mix the log and roll to make the log thoroughly. Fold into the flour an even cylinder. and mix until it forms a crumbly but moist dough.

Roll the parchment up with the dough inside and twist the Lay a 16-inch sheet of parchment paper onto the counter. Sprinkle ends. Chill for at least 2 hours or 1 cup of the coconut on th center overnight. in a loose rectangle, making sure it does not reach the edge of the Preheat oven to 350 F. Line a baking sheet with parchment parchment. Place the cookie dough on top, flattening a bit paper. Slice cookies in 1/4- to with your fingers, and sprinkle 1/2-inch rounds, place on the the remaining coconut over the prepared baking sheet, about 2 top of the dough. inches apart, and bake 12 to 15 minutes. Allow to cool before Form the dough into a 12- to 14-inch log, about 3 inches thick. serving. Store in an airtight Evenly press the coconut around container.

Everything For The Music Lover!

2 cups sweetened shredded coconut In a stand mixer, with a hand mixer, or by hand, cream the sugar and butter until light and fluffy.

1 12-ounce jar pitted maraschino cherries, strained and stemmed Add the cherries, vanilla,

HAWAIIAN CULTURAL EDUCATION THROUGH DANCE! ON-GOING ENROLLMENT

Teacher traditionally trained and graduated in Hawai`i Adults, W-7:00PM Children ages 6 & up, +3-5 w/Mommy T-5:30PM More class times available Contact Melissa: 571-338-8864 mokihanatraditionalhula@gmail.com

Acoustic & Electric Guitars • Amplifiers & Microphones Effect Pedals & Processors • Sheet Music Folk Instruments • Drum Sets School Band & Orchestra Instruments Service & Repairs • Rentals 2133 South Loudoun St., Winchester, VA 540-665-2781 • shenmusicstore.com

The Northern Virginia Daily & The Winchester Star

HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE 2024

Wednesday, November 6, 2024

Belle

ove's 5th Annual

Kris Kringle Market Saturday November 23, 10-4 Sunday November 24, 10-4

336 Belle

Local Artisans & Vendors Music Free Ballet Performance Wreath Making Classes

ove Road, Middletown, VA

www.bellegrove.org

plus a visit from

Kris & Mrs. Kringle!

7 N Loudoun / 540.667.3444 / winchesterbookgallery.com

Hot Chocolate Mulled Wine Local Food Trucks Petting Zoo

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HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE 2024

Wednesday, November 6, 2024

The Northern Virginia Daily & The Winchester Star

QUALITY ANSWERS ON NEXT PAGE 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 Give yourself the gift of a well trained and socialized pup!

(540) 749-2470 Mon-Thur: 10am-6pm Check out our variety of puppy, adult dog manners, Fri-Sat: 10am-7pm fitness, show, sport and just for fun dog classes!

Sun: 12pm-5pm

www.mountain-trails.comManners Classes, Puppy Classes, Specialty Classes,

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 NEW PUPPY FOR CHRISTMAS?

CGC/therapy Dog Classes, Canine Conditioning and more!

Always Force Free, Family Friendly, and Fun!

HEAD OF THE CLASS DOG TRAINING LLC 304-358-0293 • headoftheclassdogtrainingllc.com

The Northern Virginia Daily & The Winchester Star

HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE 2024

Wednesday, November 6, 2024

23

Rearrange the letters to spell something pertaining to Christmas

Answer: Birth Answer: Angel

ANSWERS TO WORD SEARCH ON PREVIOUS PAGE

Answer: Manger

"Helping Veterans One Floor @ a Time"

The Floor Shop is Joining Forces with Kee Construction and McKee Foundation, to Donate 5% of All Residential Sales to Benefit Local Veterans with Home Improvement.

The Floor Shop Abbey Carpet & Floor

RIFLES • SELF DEFENSE AMMUNITION • TARGETS ACCESSORIES • SCOPES BORE SIGHTING

BUY | SELL | TRADE “Locally Owned and Operated” MJSG is a legal licensed firearms dealer.

Gift Certificates Available

6151 Main St., Mount Jackson, VA • 540.325.9668 or 540.325.4255 Follow us on Facebook

540-662-0752 • 130 Foxridge Ln. 22603.Winchester.abbeycarpet.com

The Floor Shop Abbey Carpet & Floor

Once again, we will be a drop off location for:

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Wednesday, November 6, 2024

HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE 2024

The Northern Virginia Daily & The Winchester Star