holiday magic 2011 - november 25, 2011

HOLIDAY MAGIC 2011where to go, what to buy, where to celebrate...

November 25, 2011

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THE MOST DAZZLING PARTIES ARE AT THE ALLEGRIA!CALL TO BOOK YOUR EVENT TODAY! 516.992.3765

for the holidays!HOT

the Allegria is

80 West Broadway, Long Beach, NY www.allegriahotel.com

OUR FAMOUS PART Y WITHIN A PART Y: DECEMBER 9, 7 PM-11 PM!

• Invite from 2 to 45 of your friends, co-workers or clients• Sumptuous passed hors d’oeuvres at every table• Extraordinary gourmet meal prepared by chef Todd Jacobs• Fantastic D.J. and dancing in our incredible ballroom• Call our event specialists to reserve your space and arrange details

• Lunches, dinners, cocktail parties or grand galas

• Groups of 2 to 200 welcome

• Chef Todd Jacobs’ renowned gourmet cuisine

• Stunning 200-seat ballroom

• Oceanfront Atlantica Restaurant

• L’onda Lounge on the ocean

• Dramatic fireplace for cocktails and conversation

• Piano bar, private dining room and wine cellar

• Sumptuous ‘beach chic’ rooms & suites

• Gift certificates available

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• Groups of 2-200 welcome


• Stunning 200-seat ballroom • Oceanfront Atlantica Restaurant




• Sumptuous “beach chic” rooms & suites


Celebrate From Our Rooftop!• Spanning endless views of the Atlantic Ocean• Manhattan and City of Long Beach Skyline views• The perfect backdrop for your holiday cocktail partyAvailable for Private Parties for up to 250 people

HOLIDAY MAGIC is an advertising supplement to the HERALD Community Newspapers. Copyright © 2011 Richner Communications, Inc.Published by Richner Communications, Inc. 2 Endo Blvd., Garden City, NY 11530 (516) 569-4000 • www.liherald.com

PublishersCLIFFORD RICHNERSTUART RICHNERExecutive Editor

JOHN C. O’CONNELLSection Editor

KAREN BLOOMEditorial Designer

JEFFREY A. NEGRIN

Vice President of Sales

RHONDA GLICKMAN

Account Executives MIMMA BARONE

JOAN BATTINOROBERT CUMMINGS

LINDA ENGELNANCY FRIEDMAN

Account Executives

ELLEN FRISCHJILL KAPLAN

VICKI KAPLANKAREN RESNICK

Cover DesignJEFFREY A. NEGRIN

Monogrammed jewelry has been treasured since the times of Ancient Greece. It was considered to be a very luxurious and prestigious item to give or receive. This holiday season, an incredible collection of the latest monogram jewelry is available at Gennaro Jewelers, Bellmore.

Season’s giftingGreat gifts to fi t every budgetBy Karen Bloom

It’s that gifting time of year. The holidays are fast approaching and our neighborhood merchants are chock full of great ideas foreveryone on the list, from Grandma and Grandpa to the kids. Here’s a sampling of gift ideas that are sure to please in all price ranges.

Monogrammed jewelry

The holiday season sparkles with a special jewel for that special someone. The latest and best selling items are the cluster earrings, newly designed to look like a much larger pair of diamond stud earrings, at a lower price. These earrings are available in many sizes with the appearance of up to two carat total weight of diamonds. Shown here is a matching eternity band. Find these and many more new items at Goldmine Jewelers, Cedarhurst.

Cluster earrings

Select something special for the holidays. Gold, diamond and colored stone classics always make a great gift. Also silver, stainless and gold plated designs are fashion forward and easy on the budget. Whether it’s from a unique collection, or custom designed, find it at Jewelry By Steven, Long Beach.

Fashion forward baubles

Now, what do you give the person who has everything? Something personalized, of course. Stockings, robes, towels, totes, and scarves all make great gifts from infants through adult. And consider a specialty item for the bride and groom. These gifts and more are available at SST Custom Embroidery and Screen Printing, Rockville Centre.

Something personalized

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Season’s gifting

Indulge that special someone with a luxurious gift. Celebrate the season with the enduring tradition of Crabtree & Evelyn. Give her a custom Crabtree & Evelyn gift basket with her favorite products, including body lotions, wash and shower gel. Available at Moments Memories & Traditions, Lynbrook.

Customgift baskets

Give a gift that sparkles. You can’t go wrong with sequins for the holidays. Sequins are always in style. Glitter the night away in a sequin trim cardigan and tank, among other sequined looks, available at Temptations, Oceanside and Merrick.

Stylish sequins

The holidays are the season to glow and nothing makes a woman glow more than a gift of jewelry! It’s the year of the pendant, and there are many unique styles to choose from that she’ll treasure forever. Meira T’s elegant designs come in 14k yellow gold with diamonds and colored stones. Bracelets and matching earrings are also available. Find them at Panther Creations, Cedarhurst.

Glow with the season

It’s time for holiday fun at Green Acres Mall in Valley Stream. On Nov. 25, the first 200 customers to bring two canned food items to the customer service desk for the 4 a.m. opening will receive a tote bag filled with goodies and a gift card valued between $10 and $100. Santa is in residence starting Saturday, Nov. 19 through Dec. 24 for wish requests and photo opportunities. This year Green Acres also welcomes our four-legged friends with Paws and Claus pet nights on Tuesday, Dec. 6 and 13, 6-9 p.m, Bring your domestic pet for a picture with Santa, but remember to have them on a leash or in a carrier when transporting them through the mall. Kids can meet their friends from Yo Gabba Gabba at Green Acres. Bring your camera for photos with Muno on Dec. 3 and 10, with Plex from 11 a.m.-3:30 pm. There will also be free face painting and entertainment throughout the day. On Dec. 11, children’s singer Darlene Graham will perform a holiday concert from 1-2 p.m. Bring a new unwrapped toy for Toys for Tots and help brighten a child’s holiday. For a complete list of holiday events andentertainment at Green Acres Mall, visit greenacresmallonline.com.

The mall for all

Great gifts to fi t every budget

The holiday season is upon us and gift-giving and social gatherings are on everyone’s mind. Why not give yourself or someone you love the best gift of all…the Gift of Good Health! Why wait until January 1st to make your New Year’s resolution? Dr. Bo’s Diet will help you make your weight-loss goals a reality. Call Dr. Bo’s Diet today to schedule your free no-obligation consultation and begin 2012 looking and feeling better than ever!

Gift of good health

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A cutting edge holiday

Although finding not-so-ho-ho-hum presents for those on your holiday shopping list can be a challenge, you can choose from plenty of options, from fun to fabulous, quaint to quirky. Here are a few to get you started: Sole food: A pair of handmade, plush fleece slippers that look like salmon (orange) and tuna (red) rolls will satisfy the sushi lover on your list. The machine-wash-able slippers – with extra batting and no-slip, water-resistant soles – are available in sizes extra-small through extra-large, from Uncommon Goods at $34. A toddler bootie version is $28. Day camp for budding fashionistas: A hands-on day camp for teens interested in fashion may be perfect for that style-conscious child or grandchild – provided you’re ready and able to spend a few days in New York City next summer. FashionCampNYC, based at the LIM College campus in midtown Manhattan, gives teens an opportunity to learn about fashion merchan-dising, retailing, design and more from industry insid-ers. They’ll also get to come up with their own brands and learn about fashion blogging. Enrollment is limited to 75 campers per session, with four five-day sessions offered for summer 2012 (July 16 through Aug. 10) at $1,295 per camper. For information, go to www.fash-ioncampnyc.com or call 866-909-6911. Dazzling drinks: The lucky hostess who gets the Barmaid, a hand-held drink rimier, and the spices that go with it will be thinking of you every time she creates a professional-looking margarita, mojito, martini or pina colada. In fact, you might get an invitation to the next party! This $30 bar tool dispenses cocktail spices to the rim of the glass at the press of a button. Additional spices –- sweet mint; chocolate raspberry sugar; tangy lime: spicy chili: Hawaiian black lava salt; and gourmet gingerbread – are about $10. Puzzle Party Platter: Totally Bamboo’s Puzzle Party Platter makes another great entertainment-oriented gift. Designed in the shape of a puzzle piece, it has an elongated handle on one end and an open notch on the opposite end that holds any size wine glass, allowing a guest to wander around the room with drink and snack in hand. When connected together, the Puzzle Platter becomes a handsome buffet piece. A set of two Puzzle Party Platters sells for about $15. Mug and more: There’s nothing common about the Face Mug, an exclusive with Uncommon Goods. In addition to its distinctive face, it has a cubby for cookies or a doughnut – perfect for anyone who likes to keep his or her munchies close at hand. The $18 ceramic mug is oven-, microwave- and dishwasher-safe. Hanger Hamper: Neatniks and recyclers will love it – and so will the dry cleaner. This triangle-shaped, collapsible hanger-storage unit with a handle stacks and stores up to 100 hangers. In addition to keeping the closet organized, the Hanger Hamper makes it easy to carry and return collected hangers to the dry cleaner. Available in eco-green, khaki, leopard and plaid, the Hanger Hamper sells for less than $10. Hot seat: For the outdoorsman or cold-weather sports fan on your gift list, there’s the Chaheati All-Season collapsible canvas chair. Laced with cordless-fiber non-wire heating elements to keep its occupant snuggly on the chilliest days, the chair can be set to four temperatures (98 to 145) and

heats up in less than 20 seconds. A high-efficiency lithium-ion rechargeable battery provides up to six hours of heat per charge. Its oversize seat accom-modates any body type up to 280 pounds. The chair retails for about $90. On a roll: Rollors is a new outdoor game, in which players roll oversize-

hockey-puck-like hardwood discs toward a color-coded goal 25 feet away. Points are awarded to the player or team that positions the discs closest to the goal. Housed in its own car-rying case, Rollors runs about $26.

Say goodbye to the necktie or sweater and give these unique gifts instead

Partridge in a pear tree? Too bulky to ship.Five golden rings? At today’s prices?Three French hens? Vegetarian.

A solution to easy home entertaining may rest with the Puzzle Party Platter.

Rollors, a new outdoor game for individual players and teams.

HOT TOYS Inexpensive toys will entertain

kids this holiday season

Unlike the years when parents stood in long lines to grab up the almost-unobtainable Tickle Me Elmo or a tiny Zhu Zhu Pet, so far toy experts aren’t predicting any one toy to take the 2011 holiday selling season by storm. In fact, Christopher Byrne,

known throughout the country as The Toy Guy, says in the third sales quarter, manufacturers were still “waiting for some indication about where the season is going to go.” “Fortunately, we talk to kids, as well as retailers and manufacturers, and we see several things that are going to be really great and on trend,” says Byrne, who is director of content for TimeToPlayMag.com. “One of the benefits of prices being down is that the ‘price of entry’ for a hot toy is comparatively low versus previous years. That means a lot more kids will be able to be involved in what’s hot, for things like $14.99 dolls and $11.99 cards sets (such as Redakai by Spin Master).” For parents who are willing to spend a little more for a gift that is both fun and educational, Byrne recommends LeadPad Explorer by LeapFrog ($99). “It is an educational toy that looks like an iPad,” he says. “Very cool!” Pre-schoolers won’t be disappointed to find two fun new Fisher-Price toys under the tree or by the menorah, says Brenda Andolina, director of public relations and brand marketing for Fisher-Price.

The Little People Zoo Talkers Animal Sounds Zoo ($39.99) is a fun Fisher-Price “learn while you play” toy. The interactive play set features animal recognition technology that brings animals to life. “Play with animals continues to be a top-ranked play pattern for kids, and the Zoo Talkers adds so much more context to animal play that really sets it apart from competitors,” Andolina says. Little photographers will love the Kid-Tough See Yourself Camera ($69.99) that was introduced at Toy Fair 2011. “This camera offers a new dimension in the digital camera market that makes it easy to get a picture of yourself, among other things,” she says, explaining it’s a kid-proof digital camera/video recorder that’s designed especially for little hands. With its rubberized sides and wrist straps, it’s easy to grip but will keep working even when it is dropped again and again. Plus, it comes in different colors for boys and girls. Older girls that want to be camera-ready will be enthralled with Mattel’s Barbie Designable Hair Extensions ($31.99), Byrne says. “It’s hair play meets high tech.” Speaking of Barbie, she’s as popular as ever, says Bret Ingraham, a public relations representative for Mattel Brands. The traditional and collectible Holiday Barbie retails at $39.99 and wears a floor-length gown with a golden lame underskirt, embroidery and sparking jewel accents. Also new is Barbie I Can Be ... Architect doll ($13.99). Girls ages 6 and up will be asking for Radica Figit Friends Interactive Toy ($49.99), predicts Ingraham. Mattel is calling them “every girl’s best friend this holiday season.” Figit Friends can talk and laugh, and are made of tactile skin that enables lifelike movements. Oh, and they can dance, too! Older girls might prefer a different kind of doll that just happens to make both Mattel’s and Byrne’s “top” list. “The Monster High Dead Tired line are great ghoulish dolls that are appealing to older girls,” Byrne says. Another selling point – they retail for just $11.99 each. But hey, who says the season is just for kids? Byrne believes the holidays are a great time to buy a gift that the whole family can enjoy. In 2011, he’s recommending the Logo Board Game by Spin Master ($24.99). “It’s a new family game that celebrates advertising,” he says. “It’s really fun.”

By Vicky Katz Whitaker

By Diane Schlindwein

The Little People Zoo Talkers Animal Sound Zoo, by Fisher-Price, is sure to be popular with

the younger set this holiday season.

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11 Sunrise Plaza, Valley Stream516-872-3575

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GOLDEN RULE JEWELRY SINCE 1948

DIY giftsClever and inexpensive, these stylish handmade gifts are sure to wowBy Chandra Orr

When you think of homemade holiday gifts, you might think of knit scarves or brownie mixes in Ball jars, but do-it-yourself gifts don’t have to be dull. This year, mix it up with clever crafty projects that are sure to wow – such as an indulgent goat milk bath tea or a one-of-a-kind decoupage mirror that costs less than $5. These projects don’t require a Ph.D. in crafting, a pile of fancy tools or a lot of money. They can be completed in an afternoon, and most rely on cleverly repurposed items you can find for a steal at thrift shops, tag sales and your local dollar store. You might even have the supplies laying around your house or hidden in storage.

Found Object Charms Create personalized charms for necklaces and bracelets from found objects and favorite mementos. With a little wire and a few jewelry findings, you can transform virtually any small, meaningful item into a one-of-a-kind charm or pendant. How about a miniature pencil pendant for teacher? According to Lynn Colwell and Corey Colwell-Lipson, authors of “Celebrate Green! Creating Eco-Savvy Holidays, Celebrations and Traditions for the Whole Family,” it’s a simple project that makes a big statement. Cut off the end of a standard pencil so you have a piece measuring 2 to 3 inches from the eraser to the end. Re-sharpen the rough end, and secure an inexpensive clasp or bale to the eraser end with a bit of wire, and you have a thoughtful gift with a lot of style. It’s so easy the kids can help. Have them hunt for interesting objects and take their turn at twisting the wire to secure the jewelry hardware to those one-of-a-kind charms.Mod Podge Mirror Transform a thrift shop mirror and magazine cutouts into a personalized “reflection” of the recipient. “I create ‘It’s All About Me’ homemade decoupage mirrors,” says Ruthie Azarch, owner of Collagaparty, offering themed collage and decoupage craft parties. “It’s

a gift that costs less than $5 to make – and it promises to bring constant joy. They can’t feel more loved and doted on.” You will need a framed mirror – small wall mirrors with wide frames work best -- an assortment of paper cutouts from magazines or collage sheets, a paint brush and a jar of Mod Podge, available at craft supply stores. Clean the mirror thoroughly, arrange the cutouts, and start glu-ing. Working in small sections, apply a layer of Mod Podge to the frame with the paintbrush, and apply the cutouts. Top with anoth-er layer of the adhesive. Let the collage dry overnight. Sign the back, and embellish with a bow for a truly unique gift that speaks volumes about the recipient.Goat Milk Bath Tea Nothing beats a relaxing bath at the end of a long day, according to Anne-Marie Faiola, CEO and founder of Bramble Berry, a soap-

making supply shop, and the face behind the blog “Soap Queen,” which features how-to craft tutorials. Her simple, four-ingredient, four-step recipe trans-forms powdered goat milk, sea salt, cocoa butter and lavender into a decadent treat to nourish and moisturize skin. Packed in oversize tea bags, the fragrant bath tea makes the perfect stocking-stuffer. Shave the cocoa butter using a vegetable peeler, and measure out the ingredients. Mix together, and pack the potent potion in large, heat-sealable tea bags, available at craft supply stores.

Visit www.soapqueen.com for complete instructions and other easy DIY bath-related projects, such as melt-and-pour soap and bath fizzies.Gourmet Bouquet “Create your own candy-filled flower arrangement that will really impress your friends and family,” says Carly Cylinder, professional florist and owner of Flour, a full-ser-vice floral boutique. “This is great to give to a hostess and looks like it took much longer that it really did.” You will need two cylinder vases –- one large and one

small enough to fit inside the other; two or three packages of holiday candy like red and green jelly beans or M&M’s mixed with starlight mints; and a festive floral bouquet. To make, simply insert the smaller vase into the larger one, and fill the space between the vases with candy. Arrange the candy in layers by hue, or mix it up for a colorful confetti look. Trim the bouquet so that the flow-ers rest on the edge of the vase with no stems showing. Fill the smaller inner vase with water, and place the bouquet inside. Voila! In just a few minutes, you’ll have a clever centerpiece for your favorite hostess – and once the blooms fade, she can dig into the edible treats.

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Handmade gifts can be stylish and fun to make, as well as receive.

Mod Podge Mirror

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The Holidays The Holidays

Are Here!Are Here!

Have Your Party With Us! Have Your Party With Us!

Let’s Celebrate..Let’s Celebrate....

It Will Be Fabulicious!It Will Be Fabulicious!New Years Blast - look for it soon!New Years Blast - look for it soon!

Our Italian Style Party Menu as well as any

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Beware of seasonal hazardsThe holidays can be a pain in the neck!

With the holiday season in full swing, it is important to your good health to take a few simple steps to reduce the stress and strain of this very busy time. Chiropractor Dr. Dana Weissman Timmins, of Bellmore,

has created a list of tips to make your holidays enjoyable, and pain free. Consider this advice from Dr. Weissman Timmins as you go about your activities during this festive season. If you have to drive more than two hours to visit friends and relatives, take a break; get out of your vehicle and stretch. This tem-porarily restores normal posture, which will help prevent a recurrence of neck or low back conditions. When traveling by car or plane, place a pillow or folded towel behind the head and small of the back to help maintain the arches in your spine and support the rest of the body properly. This relieves the discs and joint structures of the spine from unnecessary pressure. Lift packages, firewood, your frozen holiday turkey and other heavy items with your legs, not your back. When lifting, hold objects close to your body; rather than flexing forward, maintain a slight arch in your lower back and bend at the knees before standing up with the object. When cooking or standing for an extended period, elevate one foot with a foot rest or stacked books, about six inches from the floor. Alternately elevating each foot relieves tired back and leg muscles – similar to the function the footrest serves for customers standing at a counter – and helps prevent bad postural habits that can lead to abnormal spinal curvatures. Get enough rest. Many health problems that occur with the holidays are simply due to fatigue. By simply getting a dequate rest, you can help prevent structural strain, emotional imbalance, and general health problems. Courtesy of Dr. Dana Weissman Timmins. For more information, she can be reached at (516) 809-9191 or visit www.bellmorechiropractic.com.

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NovemberFRIDAY 25

• Long Island Festival Of Trees:The annual holiday tradition, a fundraising event for UCPN, featuing spectacular array of designer-decorated trees, gingerbreadvillage and holiday entertainment, 11 a.m.-6 p.m. $10. Through Nov. 27. Proceeds benefit United Cerebral Palsy Association of Nassau County. Cradle of Aviation Museum, Museum Row, Charles Lindbergh Blvd., Garden City. (516) 378-2000 ext. 351 or www.ucpn.org.

• Santa Run:Santa, driven atop a a Bellmore FireDepartment ladder truck, will make appearances throughout Bellmore, at North Jerusalem Road shopping center(N. Jerusalem Rd, between Bellmore and East Meadow Aves.), 9 a.m.; Stop & Shop shopping center (Newbridge Rd), 9:30 a.m.; Ace Hardware shopping center (Merrick Rd. and Bellmore Ave.), 10 a.m.; Bellmore Firehouse (Pettit Ave.), 10:30 a.m., Bellmore. A free showing of a family-friendly movie follows at the Bellmore Movies.

• A Wonderful Life:A theatrical version holiday film classic,3 p.m. Through Jan. 8. $60. John W. Engeman Theater, 250 Main St., Northport. (631) 261-2900 or www.engemantheater.com.

SATURDAY 26• Beauty And The Beast:

The enchanting tale about the hideous beast and the enchanting beauty who stumbles into his castle, 2 p.m. $9. Through Dec. 17. Merrick Theatre & Center for the Arts, 2222 Hewlett Ave., Merrick. (516) 868-6400.

• An Evening With Andre Rieu:The popular classical artist, with his 60-piece Johann Strauss Orchestra, 8 p.m. Nassau Coliseum, Uniondale. (800) 745-3000 or www.ticketmaster.com.

• The Nutcracker:Long Island Ballet Theatre’s 25th anniversary production of the holiday classic, 1 and 4 p.m. $25, $20 children. Jeanne Rimsky Theatre at Landmark on Main Street, Port Washington. (631) 271-4626 or www.liballettheatre.com.

• Santa Claus Arrives in Lynbrook:See Santa, 8:30 a.m., followed by children’s movie at Lynbrook UA Theatre, 10 a.m. Earle Ave. Parking Field #8, Lynbrook.

SUNDAY 27• A Christmas Carol:

A musical production of Dickens’ beloved holiday fable, 2 p.m. $50, $35, $20. Tilles Center for the Performing Arts, C.W. Post Campus, Route 25A, Brookville. (516) 299-3100 or (800) 745-3000 or www.ticketmaster.com.

• Fanfares and Flourishes: Celebrations Brass presents a festive concert featuring music for brass, timpani and organ, 5 p.m. $10, $5 seniors and students suggested donation. Garden City Community Church, 245 Stewart Ave., Garden City. (516) 798-3369.

DecemberTHURSDAY 1

• Holiday Lighting:The community is invited to the annualholiday lighting ceremony, co-sponsored by the East Meadow Chamber of Commerce and the Council of East Meadow Community Organizations, 6 p.m. With special appearance by Santa Claus. Veteran’s Memorial Park Town Square, East Meadow and Prospect Aves., East Meadow.

• Holiday Lighting:The community is invited to the annual holi-day lighting ceremony, co-sponsored by the East Meadow Chamber of Commerce and the Council of East Meadow Community Organizations, 6 p.m. With special appear-ance by Santa Claus. Veteran’s Memorial Park Town Square, East Meadow and Pros-pect Aves., East Meadow.

FRIDAY 2• Christmas Tree Lighting:

Join the Franklin Square community for a holiday lighting, 7 p.m. With visit from Santa and refreshments. Franklin Square & Munson Fire Department Firehouse, 841 Liberty Place, Franklin Square. (516) 354-2110 ext. 102.

• Hofstra Wind Ensemble and Symphonic Band:A program of traditional and contemporary works, 8 p.m. $10. Hofstra University’s John Cranford Adams Playhouse, Hempstead. (516) 463-6644.

• The Nutcracker:Leggz Ltd. Dance performs its annual full-length production, 7:30 p.m. Through Sunday. The production features the 70-piece South Shore Symphony Orchestra. $24, $22 seniors and under 12. South Side High School, 140 Shepherd St., Rockville Centre. (516) 766-7171.

• Holiday Concert: Folk-pop singer-songwriters Anna Dagmar and David Goldman present an evening of songs and good cheer, 8:30 p.m. (open mic at 7:30 p.m.). $18, $20 at door. Garden Stage at Unitarian Universalist Congregation of Central Nassau, 223 Stewart Ave., Garden City. (516) 248-8891 or www.gardenstage.com.

• Tree Lighting: 15th annual Christmas Tree Lighting and Holiday Extravaganza, presented by the Chamber of Commerce of the Bellmores, 6 p.m. Horse and carriage rides, visit from Santa and more, followed by tree lighting at 7 p.m. Veteran’s Memorial Park, Broadway and Beford Ave., Bellmore.

SATURDAY 3• Candlelight House Tour & Tea:

Take a tour of Long Beach’s historic homes, followed by tea and scones at Felix House on Penn St., 12:30-3 p.m. $40. Reservations required. Leave from Magnolia Senior Center, Long Beach. (516) 431-2140 or www.LBILA.org.

• First Night and Tree Lighting:View Westbury House in its holiday splendor, 7–9 p.m. Live music, a visit with Santa Claus, a tree lighting, and light refreshments. The Bethel Caroling Chorale peforms. $10, $5 children 2–12. Old Westbury Gardens, 71 Old Westbury Rd., Old Westbury. (516) 333-0048 or www.oldwestburygardens.org.

• Frosty The Snowman:Frosty and his friend Jenny must save Chillsville from an evil plan to melt all the snow, 11 a.m. $15. Through Jan. 15. John W. Engeman Theater, 250 Main St., Northport. (631) 261-2900 or www.engemantheater.com.

• Gingerbread University:Kids can create a tasty holiday gingerbread house, at the annual event hosted by the Nassau County Bar Association, 9:30-11:30 a.m. or 1-3 p.m. $40. Proceeds benefit NCBA’s We Care Fund. Nassau County Bar Association, 15th and West Sts., Mineola. (516) 747-4070 or www.nassaubar.org.

• Holiday Celebration:Tour festive Westbury House, decorated for the season and share holiday wishes with Santa, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Enjoy hot cider and cookies on the West Porch. Kids can create ornaments to decorate Santa’s tree, 10 a.m.-1 p.m. Weekends, through Dec. 18. $8, $5 seniors and children. Old Westbury Gardens, 71 Old Westbury Rd., Old Westbury. (516) 333-0048 or www.oldwestburygardens.org.

• Holiday Lighting:Varied festivities for all ages at the Village of Malverne’s seasonal celebration, 4:45 p.m. Varied locations, Malverne. (516) 599-1200 or www.malvernevillage.org.

• Santa Visit:Greet St. Nick, presented by the Merrick Chamber of Commerce, 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Veteran’s Memorial Plaza Gazebo, Merrick. (516) 771-1171.

• Rock Hall Holiday Tour:Experience historic Rock Hall through the eyes of a “slave” on a guided tour, 1 and 2:30 p.m. She shares stories of life at the estate. Also Dec. 11. Rock Hall Museum, 199 Broadway, Lawrence. (516) 239-1157.

SUNDAY 4• Boston Pops:

Conductor Keith Lockhart and his celebrated orchestra perform popular holiday favorites, 2 p.m. With pop sensation Rockapella. $120, $80, $50. Tilles Center for the Performing Arts, C.W. Post Campus, Route 25A, Brookville. (516) 299-3100 or (800) 745-3000 or www.ticketmaster.com.

• Gingerbread House Contest and Bake Sale:Vote for your favorite house, 1-4 p.m.; with decorative icing demonstration at 2 p.m. Presented by Valley Stream Historical Society. Pagan-Fletcher Restoration, 143 Hendrickson Ave., Valley Stream. (516) 825-7157 or 872-4159.

• Long Island Flute Club: The popular ensemble of local musicians returns to Old Westbury Gardens Red Ballroom, with a delightful holiday concert, 1 p.m $8, $5 seniors and children. Old Westbury Gardens, 71 Old Westbury Rd., Old Westbury. (516) 333-0048 or www.oldwestburygardens.org.

• Winter Celebration:Lynbrook kicks off the holiday season, 4-7 p.m., tree lighting is at 4:15 p.m. With entertainment, Santa’s house, and horse-drawn sleigh rides, caroling and more. Bring a new, unwrapped gift for a needy child. Atlantic Ave., Lynbrook.

• Waldorf Choral Society Holiday Concert:Hear Bach Cantatas $147, #137 and #150 and Handel’s Psalm 112, 3 p.m. With featured soloists and a chamber orchestra. $28, $18 seniors/students. Cathedral of the Incarnation, 50 Cathedral Ave., Garden City.

MONDAY 5• Blessing of the Creche:

Annual blessing takes place, 6:30 p.m., at Merrick Rd. and Blake Ave., Lynbrook.

TUESDAY 6• Holiday Concert:

Hofstra’s University Choir and StringOrchestra perform, 8 p.m. $10, $8 seniors/students. Hofstra University’s John Cranford Adams Playhouse, South Campus, Hempstead. (516) 463-6644.

• Light Up for Christ:Everyone is invited to bring an ornament to help decorate the Christmas Tree in the lobby of the Sienna Center, 7 p.m. With prayer service and music. St. Catherine of Sienna Center, 980 Holzheimer St., Franklin Square. (917) 587-9647.

WEDNESDAY 7• Holiday Tea at

Old Westbury Gardens:Enjoy tea in festive Westbury House, 1:30 p.m. Also Dec. 14. $35. Reservations required. Old Westbury Gardens, 71 Old Westbury Rd., Old Westbury. (516) 333-0048 or www.oldwestburygardens.org.

Thursday 8• Paul J. Muscarella

Holiday Lighting Ceremony: Usher in the festive season, sponsored by the Elmont Chamber of Commerce, 5:30 p.m. Also visit with Santa at the Covert Avenue School, with hot chocolate and candy canes. Veteran’s Square, corner of Hempstead Tpke. and Covert Ave. Elmont.

Friday 9• Hofstra Chorale and

Chamber Singers: The ensembles perform and eclectic selection of choral music, 8 p.m. $10, $8 seniors/students. Cathedral of the Incarnation, 50 Cathedral Ave., Garden City. (516) 463-5497.

• The Nutcracker:New York Dance Theatre’s production is performed the George Balanchine tradi-tion, with guest artists from New York City Ballet and MOMIX, 12 and 5 p.m. Also Dec. 11, and 17-18 $35, $28 seniors and children 12 and under. Hofstra University’s John Cranford Adams Playhouse, Hempstead.(888) 695-0888 or www.ohmanballet.org.

• Tree Lighting and Holiday Festival:Santa visits East Rockaway for a festive celebration, 6-9 p.m. With entertainment. Village Hall/Senior Center, East Rockaway.

Saturday 10• Breakfast With Santa:

Holiday fun for the family, 8:30 a.m. 10:30 a.m. and 12:30 p.m. $10. Tickets required. St. Mary’s Council Knights of Columbus, 78 Hempstead Ave., Lynbrook.

• Darlene Love Sings “Love for the Holidays:The iconic ‘60s vocalist celebrates the season, 8 p.m. $55, $50. Jeanne Rimsky Theater at Landmark on Main Str., 232 Main St., Port Washington. (516) 767-6444 or www.landmarkonmainstreet.org.

• Holiday Lighting:Celebrate the season with friends and neighbors at Valley Stream’s tree lighting, Saturday, 5 p.m. With visit from Santa. Village Hall, 123 S. Central Ave., Valley Stream.

Sunday 11• Horse and Carriage Rides:

Cozy up with an old-fashioned ride through Long Beach’s historic Red Brick district, 3 p.m. $10. Reservations required. Begins at Felix House, 151 W. Penn St., Long Beach. (516) 431-2140 or www.LBILA.org.

Monday 12• Tree Lighting:

Join The Friends of North Valley Stream for a festive celebration, 6 p.m. With performances by the James A. Dever School jazz band and the Howell Road School Chorale. Matthew Giglio Plaza, Dutch Broadway and Corona Ave., North Valley Stream.

E V E N T S & A C T I V I T I E S& A C T I

HOL IDAY FUNIt’s that time of celebration, parties, concerts, meeting up with friends and neighbors at community festivities,

and so much more. Here’s our annual roundup of holiday happenings.

Musical tradition: Capture the magic of the season with the Boston Pops Esplanade Orchestra. Conductor Keith Lockhart brings New England’s beloved holiday Pops back to the area on Dec. 4, at Tilles Center for the Performing Arts.

Visions of sugarplums: Leggz Ltd. Dance performs its annual full-length production of The Nutcracker, Dec. 2-4, at Rockville Centre’s South Side High School. As always, the production features the 70-piece South Shore Symphony Orchestra, with professional and student dancers.

Cherished celebration: Old Westbury Gardens’ Westbury House opens its doors for its annual holiday festivities, a Long Island tradition. The home’s period rooms are beautifully and exquisitely decorated with wreaths, mantelpiece drapes, topiaries, plants and other horticultural arrangements. Holiday events continue weekly throughout December.

Beyond gift givingCreate new holiday traditions to celebrate the spirit of the season

Much of what makes the holiday season so special is the traditions that people hold dear. While families have traditions that stretch back decades, there is plenty of opportunity to embrace

new means of celebration to breathe new life into Christmas, Hanukkah or the season’s other holidays.Of course, you are already hanging stockings, going caroling this year and lighting the menorah. But this season is about so much more. Perhaps one of the greatest gifts you can give yourself and your family involve new holiday traditions, which include celebrating by giving back. Consider some of these ideas as we embark on the festive season. Feed the wildlife. During the cold days of winter, birds and small animals that don’t hibernate may find it difficult to forage for food. By trimming an outdoor pine tree in edible snacks you’ll have a beautiful tree and one that benefits the wildlife as well. String peanuts and other nuts for the squirrels. Make little ornaments out of suet and string for the birds. Berries and corn can be enjoyed by all. Be sure to choose a tree that is far enough away from the home, so you don’t have too many scavengers hunting and pecking around the house. Create a photo calendar. Make your own calendar that has small doors that open up to photos of different family members. Or use a collection of children’s pictures

that showcase how they’ve changed, as they’ve grown older. “Adopt” a child for holiday gifts. Each year you can bring a smile to a child in need by purchasing a present for an underprivileged kid. Try a “Letters from Santa” events where participants can respond to one of the thousands of letters mailed to The North Pole. Or work with a local charity, such as Sunrise Day Camp, that organizes events to bring gifts to children in hospitals. Give to others by donating things you don’t need. Pack a box of toys, clothes, or other items and bring it over to the many charitable organizations in our communities to help the holiday season a bit brighter for a family in need. Support the victims of this year’s largest natural disasters. The victims of the disaster in Japan, the Haiti earthquake, Pakistan flood, and Indonesia tsunami, and those in our own Gulf Coast are still struggling. Consider lending your support to them by donating to disaster relief organizations. Bring some joy to a public servant. Police officers, firefighters, military personnel – many of these workers do not get off for the holidays. There are a certain number of public servants who must remain on call in the event of an emergency. Treat these people to some-thing enjoyable when they may be missing their own festivities. Cook or cater a meal for a firehouse, deliver cookies to the police station or put together care packages

for people living on a military base. Volunteer your time. There are many great nonprofit organizations in our area where you can volunteer your time this holiday season. This could be a great field trip opportunity to share with your family or friends. Remember someone who has passed on. The holiday season is one made beautiful by lit candles and twinkling lights. Remember a loved one or a friend who has passed away by lighting a remembrance candle in his or her honor. It’s a way this person can still be part of the festivities. Holiday story countdown. Every night in December watch a movie or read a story that tells an uplifting holiday tale. Use this as a method of counting down until Christmas and Hanukkah. Have a holiday sing-a-long. Sure it may be tradition to go around the neighborhood singing carols, but it’s just as fun indoors. Have a singing party where guests are given lyrics to popular tunes they can sing around the piano or karaoke machine.

Banish the holiday blues. When the holidays are set to go for another year, many people find they become a little down. After all, a home that was once filled with merry trinkets may now go back to the bare essentials. Create a tradition where everyone in the family receives one more gift – a personalized keepsake that can be packed away for use next year – that’s given in January before the decorations are packed away. It’s another opportunity to open a present, and it symbolizes looking forward to the joy of next year.

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Give the gift of your time this holiday season along with feeding birds, other wildlife, is one of many

ways to embrace the spirit of giving.

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December cont’d

Tuesday 13• Holiday Lighting:

Honor loved ones at Mercy Medical Center’s Tree of Lights holiday celebration, 7 p.m. Blessing and lighting take place in front of hospital, followed by refreshments in Main Lobby. Mercy Medical Center, 1000 N. Village Ave., Rockville Centre. (516) 705-1833.

Saturday 17• Holiday Rides:

Sponsored by the Lynbrook Fire Department, noon-3 p.m. Earle Ave. Parking Field #8, Lynbrook.

Sunday 18• A Christmas Carol:

A staged reading, 2 p.m. Adelphi University’s Olmsted Theater, 1 South Ave., Garden City. (516) 877-4000.

• Hanukkah Party: Celebrate the Festival of Lights at Friedberg JCC’s community party, 11 a.m.-1 p.m. With crafts, entertainment, menorah lighting, food, holiday boutique, fun for kids, and much more. $18 per family, $6 each additional. Friedberg JCC, 15 Neil Court, Oceanside. (516) 766-4341.

Tuesday 20• Menorah Lighting:

Join the community for the annual Hanukkah celebration, 7 p.m. Five Corners, Lynbrook.

• Menorah Lighting: Commemorate the Festival of Lights, 5 p.m., Sunrise Hwy. and South Franklin Ave., Valley Stream.

Wednesday 21• Menorah Lighting:

Celebrate Hanukkah at East Rockaway’s annual lighting, 5:15 p.m. Village Hall, East Rockaway.

Monday 26• Candlelight Tour:

Visit Pagan-Fletcher Restoration by candlelight, presented by Valley Stream Historical Society, 6-8 p.m. Bring donations of canned food items for local pantries. 143 Hendrickson Ave., Valley Stream. (516) 825-7157 or 872-4159.The holiday season wouldn’t be complete without a visit from

Scrooge. A Christmas Carol is performed at Tilles Center for the Performing Arts, Nov. 27. Dickens’ fable of redemption comes to life, as a full array of timeless carols, including “God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen,” “Away in a Manger” and “Here We Come A-Wassailing” are interwoven within the classic story.

Holiday extravaganza: Families throughout the area enjoy the Long Island Festival of Trees, Nov. 25-27, at Cradle of Aviation Museum. This annual event is renowned for its spectacular array of designer-decorated trees and gingerbread village. Live entertainment, a visit from Santa, vendor marketplace, and children’s activities kick off the holiday season. All proceeds raised benefit the United Cerebral Palsy Association of Nassau County, Inc. and the Cradle of Aviation Museum.

Thinking inside the boxHow to pick a gift box that’s a present in itselfBy Sharon Naylor

When you pick out the perfect gift for those on your Christmas list, package that item in a pretty gift box that they’ll want to keep and use again. We’re not talking the thin, cardboard gift boxes

you see in some card stores; we’re talking sturdier, keep-sake boxes that are meant to last, holding treasures such as love notes, engagement cards and other precious items. A good gift box isn’t just two times the present. It’s also smart for the environment. “Always consider the waste that you may be creating when you buy and wrap a gift,” says Sophie Uliano, author of “Gorgeously Green: 8 Simple Steps to an Earth-Friendly Life.” “It’s amazing to realize that half of what ends up in the landfill is paper, most of which is packaging and (paper). Landfills have been closed all over the place because they are chock-full.” Even with the advent of wrap-ping paper made of repurposed and recyclable materials, it still takes time for the paper to decompose. An alternative is a gift box that is never discarded. Here are some of the top gift-box options to consider: Card keepsake boxes: A cottage industry has recently emerged around decorative boxes created by theme and fashion-able design. Originally marketed as a more ornate way to present wedding greetings, these boxes make the perfect keepsake containers. CreativeCustomCardBoxes.com Owner Marni Gold says that the hot colors for her two- to three-tiered card boxes, which suit holiday gifting but are very displayable all year long, are silver, gold, metallic purple and especially Tiffany blue, her top seller. Hat boxes: All things 1960s, retro and heirloom are in style right now, and Victorian or modern-style hat boxes have emerged as a top display item. They also work as storage pieces for hats, wigs and love letters or special greeting cards. “I visit antique shops and vintage stores to find hat boxes, often getting them for less than $5, and I

use those as my gift packaging or as the gifts themselves,” says budget shopper Katie McCardle. Photo keepsake boxes: Storage is very important for homeowners, and many are buying leather or decorative keepsake boxes with a slot on top for displaying a photo. Jewelry boxes: Although some are crafted with mahogany and can get pricey, you can find affordable, colorful, fabric-covered jewelry boxes for under $20. The best part? These soft-textured boxes are gifts in themselves. Multimedia boxes: Look for colorful storage boxes made for storing CDs, Blu-ray Discs and other media. In bright candy colors or neutrals, these boxes provide your gift recipient with secondary use of a well-chosen storage box after the enclosed gift has been revealed. Natural canvas boxes: Be eco-friendly for the holi-days. Lidded boxes made of organic canvas materials are available in neutral tones of tan or brown, and they dou-ble as multi-use storage bins suitable for anyone on your

gift shopping list, male or female. These range from $17.99 to $19.99. Wicker boxes: The natural look is in, and many recipients will take a lidded wicker box and add it to their bathroom decor as a place to store magazines or extra toilet paper. A wicker box can also hold crafting items, catalogs or any number of sundries that require attractive stor-

age in the home. Because wicker is neutrally colored – most often Earth tones – it’s a style that’s sure to work in some area of the recipient’s home. Heirloom boxes: One of the best ways to give a keep-sake box that’s friendly to the environment is to hand down something that has been in the family for genera-tions. When you give a grandmother’s treasured hat box to your daughter, for instance, it’s a sentimental gift. When you fill it with your favorite mementos from your daugh-ter’s childhood, the sentimentality increases exponentially. And in this financial era, nothing could be more pleasing to you than not having to pay for such a priceless present.

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Video games for the whole familyGetting everyone involved is the name of the game

By now, the kids are screaming that they want every toy featured in a TV commercial to magically appear at your home this holiday season. Between this new doll and that drum set

that would be really, really loud, you don’t know what to choose from. You’d like something that is affordable but could be enjoyed for months to come and wouldn’t end up in the toy chest, unused. “Video games have gone wide, and everyone plays games now,” says David Pava, the director of marketing at D3Publisher of America Inc. “It’s assumed that families play games together.” D3Publisher is one of the biggest producers of video games for kids, and the hot new releases in the upcoming months are sure to fill your holiday gift-giving needs. For your rugrat tyke, “Ben 10: Galactic Racing” will allow him to jump into the world of “Ben 10,” the popular series on Cartoon Network. Players get to choose different aliens to drive in various karts, allowing your kids to individualize their game experience. More than 20 racing tracks add to the fun. If you have girls in your family, they probably are familiar with Nickelodeon’s live-action comedy series “Victorious.” D3Publisher gives your tween the ability to

experience the school that the show’s characters attend, in the game “Victorious: Hollywood Arts Debut.” “With ‘Victorious,’ the No. 1 thing is to bring that show to life,” Pava says. “We want to put the audience in the same classroom (as the characters) and feel like what it was like to go through a high-school classroom with those stars.” This game is built for the Nintendo DS, which, according to Pava, is a strong game system for girls. If you’re looking to purchase a hand-held system for your child, you may want to consider the new Nintendo 3DS. “It offers a completely new way to play. It lets users experience 3-D games, take 3-D pictures and watch 3-D videos without the need for special glasses,” says Cindy Gordon, the vice president of corporate affairs for Nintendo of America. Along with the release of the new 3DS system, several 3-D games are making their way to store shelves, including “Super Mario 3D Land,” “Mario Kart 7,” “Professor Layton and the Last Septor” and “Tetris: Axis.” The 3-D version of “Tetris” literally adds another dimension to the game, and Gordon says that the 20 different modes deliver never-before-seen ways to play. In addition to the newfangled 3-D options and popular titles, a big aspect to video games these days is the ability to have multiple people playing at once. “Several games provide online

gaming experiences so you can play with friends near and far,” Gordon says. Being able to play “Ben 10: Galactic Racing” with multiple people, whether they be friends or family members, is especially important when it comes to the younger demographic. “This is the game that is the ‘vehicle’ for delivering what kids want,” Pava says, referencing that most kids want to be able to play video games with others. The multi-player aspect of video games is even more important now, as families are trying to find inexpensive ways for everyone to stay entertained. Nintendo is rolling out the Nintendo Selects series, which contains classic games at cheaper prices. For example, “The Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess” and “Mario Super Sluggers” are being released at $19.99 instead of $49.99. There also will be Wii games added to the collection. “The Wii is accessible to everyone – young and old – as it makes playing video games easy,” Gordon says. So round up Grandma, the children down the street and anyone else you can think of to share in the fun of these classics. With these video game recommendations, there is no need to pull your hair out when trying to decide what to wrap up for your kiddos this year. And maybe, just maybe, they’ll let you play with them.

By Anica Wong

“Super Mario 3D Land” is one of the newest 3-D games for Nintendo’s 3DS, a hand-held system that lets you experience

the 3-D game without special glasses.

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Last minuteProcrastinators often seek perfection

Some 23 million people hit the stores on Christmas Eve last year, according to the International Council of Shopping Centers. For some, this last-minute gift shopping is a tradition, an annual ritual of braving the mall crowds to be swept up in the holiday

frenzy. For many others, though, it’s the stressful byproduct of a to-do list as long as Santa’s and the desire for perfection. “Many people who procrastinate use it as a mechanism to cope with the anxiety associated with starting or completing any task or decision,” says Dr. Soroya Bacchus, a board-certified psychiatrist. “What’s curious is that procrastinating in response to anxiety actually creates more anxiety for that person in the long run.” Last-minute shoppers may have a “good” reason to postpone that trip to the mall – e.g., waiting for the sales, looking for the perfect deal online or haven’t decided on a gift yet – but their hesitation likely has more to do with insecurity and perfectionist tendencies. “They worry about whether or not the person they are shopping for will like the gift they buy or that the recipient will judge them based on how much money they spent,” Bacchus says. “Others have feelings of intense anxiety related to getting everything done for the holidays: the cooking, the cleaning, the dealing with the in-laws. It can be a lot to handle all at once.” That drive to create the perfect holiday experience translates into the perfect storm of anxiety and stress, Bacchus says. Is this the perfect gift? What if they get me a nicer, more expensive present? What if it goes on sale next week? And why start shopping when the decorating isn’t done? “Trying to make sure everything is just right will cause you to spend too much time on one item when you have 10 things on your plate, and to-dos like shopping can be pushed to the last minute,” Bacchus says. Want to avoid the gift-list stress? Stop thinking, and start doing. Forget about getting it perfect. Just get it done. Follow these five steps to get a head start on your holiday shopping: 1. Make a list. Do a bit of brainstorming a few weeks before the shopping season starts. Make a listof those you wish to buy gifts for, and come up with two or three ideas for each person, ideas you can realistically afford. “Do this quickly; don’t over-think it; and don’t take a break until you have at least one idea for each person,” says Toni Coleman, licensed psychotherapist and relationship coach. “Let yourself really go with this, writing down anything that occurs to you. Every gift does not have to have the same monetary value –

and avoid even thinking that you ‘should spend’ a certain amount.” 2. Break it down. Make your list more manageable by breaking it down into several shopping trips or Internet sessions. Vow to grab one gift each time you run errands, or start surfing for deals on Black Friday with a resolution to purchase one item online each day until you’re done. The point is to set aside specific times to tackle that to-do list. “This helps to get it mapped out in a way that there are minimal trips to the store and time spent searching online or off,” Coleman says. “Put the time you will dedicate to this task on your schedule like any important appointment or event.” 3. Get moving. Give the gift list and schedule some thought – but don’t over-think it. Once you have a few

ideas on paper, start taking action. Make a point to make one purchase that day. “A little bit of planning can help you reach your goals, but a lot of planning and thinking tends to have the opposite effect,” Bacchus explains. “By simply taking action, you are guaranteed to find yourself further down your shopping list than if you had not.” Plus, you’ll have an instant feeling of accomplishment. Checking off one item on your list will likely feel so good that you’ll want to do it again. 4. Stand firm. Once you’ve made a decision, don’t second-guess yourself. “Many procrastinators find themselves struggling with gift ideas and end up shopping at the last minute because they can’t decide on the best gift or keep changing their minds. Once you decide on something, get it,” Bacchus says. “In the grand scheme of things, a gift is just a gift,” she says. “It’s a gesture of kindness. It is not the end-all of decisions, and chances are the recipient will appreciate the thought more than the actual gift itself.” 5. Make it fun. Gift buying doesn’t have to be a grueling ordeal. Schedule a shopping day with friends or family, and plan a nice lunch or dinner afterward. Having others relying on you to show up will eliminate any urges to postpone, and having something to look forward to will keep your mind off the hassle of long lines and decision-making, Coleman says. If you must shop alone, reward yourself with your favorite latte or an indulgent snack or a pre-holiday present for yourself. “When you finish buying gifts for someone else, pick up a little something for yourself as a personal high-five for accomplishing your goals,” Bacchus says. “It may sound selfish, but the prospect of personal gain always incites feelings of motivation.”

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By Chandra Orr

Gift List

Camera

Video Games

Toys for

Want to beat the last-minute holiday shopping stress?Forget about getting it perfect. Just get it done.

Make a list; tackle a little bit at a time; and don’t waffle on decisions.

KIDS ANDGIFTS

How many is too much?

Despite the many messages from all corners promoting a “more is better” philosophy when it comes to holiday gifts, the truth is far more complex – especially for

children. While most parents work hard to give their kids everything they need and much of what they want, it is often hard to draw the line, prompting many well intentioned moms and dads to ask, “How much is too much?” In general, the answer lies within eachfamily. Parents should purchase what makes sense to them and what they believe their children will use and appreciate. However, in recent years, child psychologists and experts in child development have returned to these questions as economic conditions have forced many families to scale back, both throughout the year and during the holiday season. If you have been wondering about these issues, here are some general guidelines for having a fun-filled holiday with just enough stuff.

Make a gift planBefore setting out on your first shopping expedition, devise a plan that makes sense for your family. If you have younger children, decide on the number of gifts for each. With older children, you might want to establish a dollar amount rather than a gift amount. Once you’ve made the plan, stick to it – no matter what.

Draw names Particularly in bigger families, gift-giving can become a financial and emotional burden if everyone buys for everyone. Drawing names not only reduces those burdens, but often results in more meaningful gifts all around.

Opt for a shared experienceConsider pooling the money you would have spent on individual gifts and putting it toward a special outing, vacation or shared item for your home. Long after the toys have broken and the electronics have stopped working, your children will cherish their memories of a holiday that focused on sharing time together.

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Personal – but not too personal – presents are a best bet this time of year

Finding the perfect holiday gift for that special someone in your life can be the headache that keeps on giving. Even couples who have been together for decades can falter under pressure. Though, at least that far into a relationship, each person

likely has an understanding of what the other enjoys. But what about a new love that develops during these chilly months? What does one get the new suitor? Is a gift even appropriate? How much money is too much to spend on this not-yet-significant other? All good partnerships begin with open communica-tion. The National Healthy Marriage Resource Center urges budding couples to discuss whether they even want to exchange presents, instead of assuming what the other is thinking. From there, the duo can set the parameters of price and emotional value (lighthearted, romantic, etc.). Most dating experts agree that the monetary value of the gifts at this early stage should not exceed $50. According to Relationship 411, “No one is saying you have to come off cheap, but if you spend too much money on your first gift it could cause feelings of guilt if your partner did not or could not spend the same. Expensive gifts are also suggestive of a more serious relationship, which could make your new love interest uncomfortable.” Syndicated columnist Amy Alkon aka The Advice Goddess further stresses that new couples should stick

to fun items that reflect each other’s personalities. She recommends books as a surefire, inexpensive holiday hit – unless, of course, the recipient isn’t much of a reader. It’s OK to get a feel for a new partner’s tastes in lit-erature, TV shows and the like, but Alkon says to avoid listening too closely. Intimate, one-of-a-kind gifts may be heartfelt, but they serve as red flags in a relationship’s infancy. “(Don’t) go on eBay for three weeks and try to find the rare thing that their mother lost when she was a child, which is just very desperate and bad,” Alkon warns. However, because of the unstable economy, Alkon says that hitting up one’s local thrift store for gifts isn’t out of the question. Depending on the recipient’s own income and interests, one might uncover secondhand gold. This can be especially true, she continues, for younger couples who delight in rummage-sale treasures. One may be surprised to hear that seemingly innocuous, generic items that often appear at white elephant exchanges can also be troublesome for a fresh relationship. Bonny Albo, dating guru for About.com, writes: “Items that are only practical in nature (such as a can opener), suggest a more serious relationship than what the two of you have forged.” Albo instead counts magazine subscriptions, food items and card games as new-couple friendly for the holidays. One must be careful when giving edibles. Find out whether the recipient is on a specific diet and whether

the recipient has any allergies. This will eliminate much of the worry. Whether it’s a homemade sweet treat or the offer to take the other person to a restaurant of his or her choice, the way to a man’s or woman’s heart this season might be through his or her stomach. Whatever gift - or lack thereof – that a new couple might bestow upon each other, the experts tend to agree: It’s the togetherness of the holidays that really makes a difference. “It’s really best to have the gift be the gift of you,” Alkon says.

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By Melissa Bobbitt

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Top gifts for pets

It’s good to be the family pet, especially at during the festive season when so many pets get spoiled with lavish holiday gifts. According to the American Pet Products Association, of the 72.9 million American households owning a pet, many treat their animals as members of the family, indeed as their own children. To reward their pets for the unconditional love, laughter and positive health

benefits they bring, owners are buying fabulous gifts for them. Gift buying for pets is such an enormous trend that, according to the APPA: “More and more companies traditionally known for human products are going to the dogs, and cats, and reptiles. Big-name companies are now offering lines of pet products ranging from dog shampoo, pet attire, and name-brand toys to gourmet treats and food.” As pet owners shop for themselves and the humans on their gift lists, they’re also picking out choice items for their pampered pets. Their dogs will wear brand names and eat brand-name foods, just as their owners do. Another leading trend in today’s hot gifts for pets is personalized everything. Owners are ordering monogrammed sweaters or even designing custom T-shirts for their dogs to wear while out on walks or strut-ting their style at the dog park. Other personalized gift items include food and water bowls, collars, leashes, bedding and toys.

Apparel Believe it or not, pets are getting faux mink coats this holiday season. The APPA reports this fashion piece as part of a growing trend in “straight from the catwalk” designer apparel for pets, along with designer plaid jackets, matching jeweled and leather collar and leash sets, and holiday outfits. If a personalized T-shirt is not high-fashion enough, pet owners are going to upscale pet boutiques to buy designer apparel and accessories, including brand-name booties to keep pets’ paws warm and protected in winter. And give your dog some style with his or her tags, such as those from Wags & Tags, made with precious metals and stones.

Pet Spa Pets are now given treatments at luxury pet spas, including grooming and hair coloring, nail painting using eco-friendly products, fur conditioners, teeth cleaning and polishing, and even massages and chiropractic sessions that older pets, particularly those with arthritis, may enjoy. Cats can spend the day in a toy-filled fantasy suite, as well. As any great spa will provide, pets dine on healthy gourmet fare and even drink fresh spring water from a fountain, says the APPA. Not to be left out, birds may get pedicures, as well, and the spa’s take-home goodie bag will often include organic cleaning cloths, aromatherapy products for pets’ stress levels, and scented gel air fresheners to keep the pet’s room and the owner’s home free of odors.

Food and Treats While owners receive edibles gifts of their own, such as chocolate truffles and gourmet popcorn, pets are given their own brands of organic and spe-cial-formula food and treats. One popular name for the brand-fan is Rachael Ray’s Nutrish line of natural pet foods and treats, with profits going to charities for animals in need. To date, Ray’s Rescue charity has raised more than $2 million. In addition to celebrity-brand foods, all manner of pet treats are avail-able, such as doggie cupcakes and peanut-butter bars. Edibles might be the pet’s gift, or you could stuff his or her stocking full of them.

Toys Caring pet owners know that pet toys can harbor bacteria or even dust mites over time, so they often choose to replace their pets’ last-season toys with a whole new collection of plush squeaky toys, catnip balls, birdcage mirrors and bells, and hamster balls. The owner’s “children” love to get toys, and many – such as tug toys for dogs – are also designed to help with clean-ing pets’ teeth.

Lifestyle The pet who’s toted around with his owner can travel in style with the gift of a new carrier, and the APPA says that some owners are purchasing leather carriers complete with cellphone and water bottle holders to keep them in style, as well. The good life may include the pet’s new automatic feeder and water dispenser, a self-cleaning litter box, enhanced terrarium lighting systems, or an expanded habitat for hamsters with additional wheels, tubes and toys. And another pet-on-the-go essential is a safety har-ness and seat belt for the car, as well as a personalized comfy cashmere blanket to sit on during their travels. Pets may not dream of sugarplums while napping on their new Egyptian cotton bedding, but they’ll surely rest easily knowing how much their own-ers love them.

By Sharon Naylor

Remember your furry friends

Going to the dogs: Bling out your pets with a stylish present during this season of giving.

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HOLIDAY MAGIC 2011where to go, what to buy, where to celebrate...

November 25, 2011

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PublishersCLIFFORD RICHNERSTUART RICHNERExecutive Editor

JOHN C. O’CONNELLSection Editor

KAREN BLOOMEditorial Designer

JEFFREY A. NEGRIN

Vice President of Sales

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Account Executives MIMMA BARONE

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Cover DesignJEFFREY A. NEGRIN

Monogrammed jewelry has been treasured since the times of Ancient Greece. It was considered to be a very luxurious and prestigious item to give or receive. This holiday season, an incredible collection of the latest monogram jewelry is available at Gennaro Jewelers, Bellmore.

Season’s giftingGreat gifts to fi t every budgetBy Karen Bloom

It’s that gifting time of year. The holidays are fast approaching and our neighborhood merchants are chock full of great ideas foreveryone on the list, from Grandma and Grandpa to the kids. Here’s a sampling of gift ideas that are sure to please in all price ranges.

Monogrammed jewelry

The holiday season sparkles with a special jewel for that special someone. The latest and best selling items are the cluster earrings, newly designed to look like a much larger pair of diamond stud earrings, at a lower price. These earrings are available in many sizes with the appearance of up to two carat total weight of diamonds. Shown here is a matching eternity band. Find these and many more new items at Goldmine Jewelers, Cedarhurst.

Cluster earrings

Select something special for the holidays. Gold, diamond and colored stone classics always make a great gift. Also silver, stainless and gold plated designs are fashion forward and easy on the budget. Whether it’s from a unique collection, or custom designed, find it at Jewelry By Steven, Long Beach.

Fashion forward baubles

Now, what do you give the person who has everything? Something personalized, of course. Stockings, robes, towels, totes, and scarves all make great gifts from infants through adult. And consider a specialty item for the bride and groom. These gifts and more are available at SST Custom Embroidery and Screen Printing, Rockville Centre.

Something personalized

Season’s gifting

Indulge that special someone with a luxurious gift. Celebrate the season with the enduring tradition of Crabtree & Evelyn. Give her a custom Crabtree & Evelyn gift basket with her favorite products, including body lotions, wash and shower gel. Available at Moments Memories & Traditions, Lynbrook.

Customgift baskets

Give a gift that sparkles. You can’t go wrong with sequins for the holidays. Sequins are always in style. Glitter the night away in a sequin trim cardigan and tank, among other sequined looks, available at Temptations, Oceanside and Merrick.

Stylish sequins

The holidays are the season to glow and nothing makes a woman glow more than a gift of jewelry! It’s the year of the pendant, and there are many unique styles to choose from that she’ll treasure forever. Meira T’s elegant designs come in 14k yellow gold with diamonds and colored stones. Bracelets and matching earrings are also available. Find them at Panther Creations, Cedarhurst.

Glow with the season

It’s time for holiday fun at Green Acres Mall in Valley Stream. On Nov. 25, the first 200 customers to bring two canned food items to the customer service desk for the 4 a.m. opening will receive a tote bag filled with goodies and a gift card valued between $10 and $100. Santa is in residence starting Saturday, Nov. 19 through Dec. 24 for wish requests and photo opportunities. This year Green Acres also welcomes our four-legged friends with Paws and Claus pet nights on Tuesday, Dec. 6 and 13, 6-9 p.m, Bring your domestic pet for a picture with Santa, but remember to have them on a leash or in a carrier when transporting them through the mall. Kids can meet their friends from Yo Gabba Gabba at Green Acres. Bring your camera for photos with Muno on Dec. 3 and 10, with Plex from 11 a.m.-3:30 pm. There will also be free face painting and entertainment throughout the day. On Dec. 11, children’s singer Darlene Graham will perform a holiday concert from 1-2 p.m. Bring a new unwrapped toy for Toys for Tots and help brighten a child’s holiday. For a complete list of holiday events andentertainment at Green Acres Mall, visit greenacresmallonline.com.

The mall for all

Great gifts to fi t every budget

The holiday season is upon us and gift-giving and social gatherings are on everyone’s mind. Why not give yourself or someone you love the best gift of all…the Gift of Good Health! Why wait until January 1st to make your New Year’s resolution? Dr. Bo’s Diet will help you make your weight-loss goals a reality. Call Dr. Bo’s Diet today to schedule your free no-obligation consultation and begin 2012 looking and feeling better than ever!

Gift of good health

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Although finding not-so-ho-ho-hum presents for those on your holiday shopping list can be a challenge, you can choose from plenty of options, from fun to fabulous, quaint to quirky. Here are a few to get you started: Sole food: A pair of handmade, plush fleece slippers that look like salmon (orange) and tuna (red) rolls will satisfy the sushi lover on your list. The machine-washable slippers – with extra batting and no-slip, water-resistant soles – are available in sizes extra-small through extra-large, from Uncommon Goods at $34. A toddler bootie version is $28. Day camp for budding fashionistas: A hands-on day camp for teens interested in fashion may be perfect for that style-conscious child or grand-child – provided you’re ready and able to spend a few days in New York City next summer. FashionCampNYC, based at the LIM College campus in mid-town Manhattan, gives teens an opportunity to learn about fashion merchan-dising, retailing, design and more from industry insiders. They’ll also get to come up with their own brands and learn about fashion blogging. Enrollment is limited to 75 campers per session, with four five-day sessions offered for summer 2012 (July 16 through Aug. 10) at $1,295 per camper. For information, go to www.fashioncampnyc.com or call 866-909-6911.

Dazzling drinks: The lucky hostess who gets the Barmaid, a hand-held drink rimier, and the spices that go with it will be thinking of you every time she creates a professional-looking margarita, mojito, martini or pina colada. In fact, you might get an invitation to the next party! This $30 bar tool dispenses cocktail spices to the rim of the glass at the press of a button. Additional spices –- sweet mint; chocolate raspberry sugar; tangy lime: spicy chili: Hawaiian black lava salt; and gourmet gingerbread – are about $10. Puzzle Party Platter: Totally Bamboo’s Puzzle Party Platter makes another great entertainment-oriented gift. Designed in the shape of a puzzle piece, it has an elongated handle on one end and an open notch on the opposite end that holds any size wine glass, allowing a guest to wander around the room with drink and snack in hand. When connected together, the Puzzle Platter becomes a handsome buffet piece. A set of two Puzzle Party Platters sells for about $15.

Mug and more: There’s nothing common about the Face Mug, an exclu-sive with Uncommon Goods. In addition to its distinctive face, it has a cubby for cookies or a doughnut – perfect for anyone who likes to keep his or her munchies close at hand. The $18 ceramic mug is oven-, microwave- and dishwasher-safe. Hanger Hamper: Neatniks and recyclers will love it – and so will the dry

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Say goodbye to the necktie or sweater and give these unique gifts instead

Partridge in a pear tree? Too bulky to ship.Five golden rings? At today’s prices?Three French hens? Vegetarian.

A solution to easy home entertaining may rest with the Puzzle Party Platter.

By Vicky Katz Whitaker

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for tickets call 516 766-7171

featuringAnna Liceica Sugar Plum Fairy former soloist American Ballet Theatre Vitali Krauchenka the Cavalier American Ballet TheatreLaura Feig Otto the Snow Queen Atlanta Ballet / Broadway's“Movin’Out” Isaac Peter Stappas the Snow King American Ballet TheatreSlava Fadeyev Dr. Stahlbaum The Kirov Ballet

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The Rockville Centre Guild for the Arts and Leggz Ltd. Dance

present the 2011 Full Length Ballet Production of Tchaikovsky's

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Rollors, a new outdoor game for individual players and teams.

Continued from previous page

cleaner. This triangle-shaped, collapsible hanger-storage unit with a handle stacks and stores up to 100 hangers. In addition to keeping the closet organized, the Hanger Hamper makes it easy to carry and return collected hangers to the dry cleaner. Available in eco-green, khaki, leopard and plaid, the Hanger Hamper sells for less than $10. Hot seat: For the outdoorsman or cold-weather sports fan on your gift list, there’s the Chaheati All-Season collapsible canvas chair. Laced with cordless-fiber non-wire heating elements to keep its occupant

snuggly on the chilliest days, the chair can be set to four temperatures (98 to 145) and heats up in less than 20 seconds. A high-efficiency lithium-ion rechargeable bat-tery provides up to six hours of heat per charge. Its oversize seat accommodates any body type up to 280 pounds. The chair retails for about $90. On a roll: Rollors is a new outdoor game, in which players roll oversize-hockey-puck-like hardwood discs toward a color-coded goal 25 feet away. Points are awarded to the player or team that positions the discs closest to the goal. Housed in its own carrying case, Rollors runs about $26.


HOT TOYS Inexpensive toys will entertain kids this holiday season

Unlike the years when parents stood in long lines to grab up the almost-unobtainable Tickle Me Elmo or a tiny Zhu Zhu

Pet, so far toy experts aren’t predicting any one toy to take the 2011 holiday selling season by storm. In fact, Christopher Byrne, known throughout the country as The Toy Guy, says in the third sales quarter, manufacturers were still “waiting for some indication about where the season is going to go.” “Fortunately, we talk to kids, as well as retailers and manufacturers, and we see several things that are going to be really great and on trend,” says Byrne, who is director of content for TimeToPlayMag.com. “One of the benefits of prices being down is that the ‘price of entry’ for a hot toy is comparatively low versus previous years. That means a lot more kids will be able to be involved in what’s hot, for things like $14.99 dolls and $11.99 cards sets (such as Redakai by Spin Master).” For parents who are willing to spend a little more for a gift that is both fun and educational, Byrne recommends LeadPad Explorer by LeapFrog ($99). “It is an educational toy that looks like an iPad,” he says. “Very cool!” Pre-schoolers won’t be disappointed to find two fun new Fisher-Price toys under the tree or by the menorah, says Brenda Andolina, director of public relations and brand marketing for Fisher-Price. The Little People Zoo Talkers Animal Sounds Zoo ($39.99) is a funFisher-Price “learn while you play” toy. The interactive play set features

animal recognition technology that brings animals to life. “Play with animals continues to be a top-ranked play pattern for kids, and the Zoo Talkers adds so much more context to animal play that really sets it apart from competitors,” Andolina says. Little photographers will love the Kid-Tough See Yourself Camera ($69.99) that was introduced at Toy Fair 2011. “This camera offers a new dimension in the digital camera

market that makes it easy to get a picture of yourself, among other things,” she says, explaining it’s a kid-proof digital camera/video recorder that’s designed especially for little hands. With its rubberized sides and wrist straps, it’s easy to grip but will keep working even when it is dropped again and again. Plus, it comes in different colors for boys and girls. Older girls that want to be camera-ready will be enthralled with Mattel’s Barbie Designable Hair Extensions ($31.99), Byrne says. “It’s hair play meets high tech.” Speaking of Barbie, she’s as popular as ever, says Bret Ingraham, a public relations representative for Mattel Brands. The traditional and collectible Holiday Barbie retails at $39.99 and wears a floor-length gown with a golden lame underskirt, embroidery and sparking jewel accents. Also new is

Barbie I Can Be ... Architect doll ($13.99). Girls ages 6 and up will be asking for Radica Figit Friends Interactive Toy ($49.99), predicts Ingraham. Mattel is calling them “every girl’s best friend this holiday season.” Figit Friends can talk and laugh, and are made of tactile skin that enables lifelike movements. Oh, and they can dance, too! Older girls might prefer a different kind of doll that just happens to make both Mattel’s and Byrne’s “top” list. “The Monster High Dead Tired line are great ghoulish dolls that are appealing to older girls,” Byrne says. Another selling point – they retail for just $11.99 each. But hey, who says the season is just for kids? Byrne believes the holidays are a great time to buy a gift that the whole family can enjoy. In 2011, he’s recommending the Logo Board Game by Spin Master ($24.99). “It’s a new family game that celebrates advertising,” he says. “It’s really fun.”

By Diane Schlindwein

The Little People Zoo Talkers Animal Sound Zoo, by Fisher-Price, is sure to be popular with

the younger set this holiday season.

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NovemberFRIDAY 25

• Long Island Festival Of Trees:The annual holiday tradition, a fundraising event for UCPN, featuing spectacular array of designer-decorated trees, gingerbreadvillage and holiday entertainment, 11 a.m.-6 p.m. $10. Through Nov. 27. Proceeds benefit United Cerebral Palsy Association of Nassau County. Cradle of Aviation Museum, Museum Row, Charles Lindbergh Blvd., Garden City. (516) 378-2000 ext. 351 or www.ucpn.org.

• Santa Run:Santa, driven atop a a Bellmore FireDepartment ladder truck, will make appearances throughout Bellmore, at North Jerusalem Road shopping center(N. Jerusalem Rd, between Bellmore and East Meadow Aves.), 9 a.m.; Stop & Shop shopping center (Newbridge Rd), 9:30 a.m.; Ace Hardware shopping center (Merrick Rd. and Bellmore Ave.), 10 a.m.; Bellmore Firehouse (Pettit Ave.), 10:30 a.m., Bellmore. A free showing of a family-friendly movie follows at the Bellmore Movies.

• A Wonderful Life:A theatrical version holiday film classic,3 p.m. Through Jan. 8. $60. John W. Engeman Theater, 250 Main St., Northport. (631) 261-2900 or www.engemantheater.com.

SATURDAY 26• Beauty And The Beast:

The enchanting tale about the hideous beast and the enchanting beauty who stumbles into his castle, 2 p.m. $9. Through Dec. 17. Merrick Theatre & Center for the Arts, 2222 Hewlett Ave., Merrick. (516) 868-6400.

• An Evening With Andre Rieu:The popular classical artist, with his 60-piece Johann Strauss Orchestra, 8 p.m. Nassau Coliseum, Uniondale. (800) 745-3000 or www.ticketmaster.com.

• The Nutcracker:Long Island Ballet Theatre’s 25th anniversary production of the holiday classic, 1 and 4 p.m. $25, $20 children. Jeanne Rimsky Theatre at Landmark on Main Street, Port Washington. (631) 271-4626 or www.liballettheatre.com.

• Santa Claus Arrives in Lynbrook:See Santa, 8:30 a.m., followed by children’s movie at Lynbrook UA Theatre, 10 a.m. Earle Ave. Parking Field #8, Lynbrook.

SUNDAY 27• A Christmas Carol:

A musical production of Dickens’ beloved holiday fable, 2 p.m. $50, $35, $20. Tilles Center for the Performing Arts, C.W. Post Campus, Route 25A, Brookville. (516) 299-3100 or (800) 745-3000 or www.ticketmaster.com.

• Fanfares and Flourishes: Celebrations Brass presents a festive concert featuring music for brass, timpani and organ, 5 p.m. $10, $5 seniors and students suggested donation. Garden City Community Church, 245 Stewart Ave., Garden City. (516) 798-3369.

DecemberTHURSDAY 1

• Holiday Lighting:The community is invited to the annualholiday lighting ceremony, co-sponsored by the East Meadow Chamber of Commerce and the Council of East Meadow Community Organizations, 6 p.m. With special appearance by Santa Claus. Veteran’s Memorial Park Town Square, East Meadow and Prospect Aves., East Meadow.

• Holiday Lighting:The community is invited to the annual holi-day lighting ceremony, co-sponsored by the East Meadow Chamber of Commerce and the Council of East Meadow Community Organizations, 6 p.m. With special appear-ance by Santa Claus. Veteran’s Memorial Park Town Square, East Meadow and Pros-pect Aves., East Meadow.

FRIDAY 2• Christmas Tree Lighting:

Join the Franklin Square community for a holiday lighting, 7 p.m. With visit from Santa and refreshments. Franklin Square & Munson Fire Department Firehouse, 841 Liberty Place, Franklin Square. (516) 354-2110 ext. 102.

• Hofstra Wind Ensemble and Symphonic Band:A program of traditional and contemporary works, 8 p.m. $10. Hofstra University’s John Cranford Adams Playhouse, Hempstead. (516) 463-6644.

• The Nutcracker:Leggz Ltd. Dance performs its annual full-length production, 7:30 p.m. Through Sunday. The production features the 70-piece South Shore Symphony Orchestra. $24, $22 seniors and under 12. South Side High School, 140 Shepherd St., Rockville Centre. (516) 766-7171.

• Holiday Concert: Folk-pop singer-songwriters Anna Dagmar and David Goldman present an evening of songs and good cheer, 8:30 p.m. (open mic at 7:30 p.m.). $18, $20 at door. Garden Stage at Unitarian Universalist Congregation of Central Nassau, 223 Stewart Ave., Garden City. (516) 248-8891 or www.gardenstage.com.

• Tree Lighting: 15th annual Christmas Tree Lighting and Holiday Extravaganza, presented by the Chamber of Commerce of the Bellmores, 6 p.m. Horse and carriage rides, visit from Santa and more, followed by tree lighting at 7 p.m. Veteran’s Memorial Park, Broadway and Beford Ave., Bellmore.

SATURDAY 3• Candlelight House Tour & Tea:

Take a tour of Long Beach’s historic homes, followed by tea and scones at Felix House on Penn St., 12:30-3 p.m. $40. Reservations required. Leave from Magnolia Senior Center, Long Beach. (516) 431-2140 or www.LBILA.org.

• First Night and Tree Lighting:View Westbury House in its holiday splendor, 7–9 p.m. Live music, a visit with Santa Claus, a tree lighting, and light refreshments. The Bethel Caroling Chorale peforms. $10, $5 children 2–12. Old Westbury Gardens, 71 Old Westbury Rd., Old Westbury. (516) 333-0048 or www.oldwestburygardens.org.

• Frosty The Snowman:Frosty and his friend Jenny must save Chillsville from an evil plan to melt all the snow, 11 a.m. $15. Through Jan. 15. John W. Engeman Theater, 250 Main St., Northport. (631) 261-2900 or www.engemantheater.com.

• Gingerbread University:Kids can create a tasty holiday gingerbread house, at the annual event hosted by the Nassau County Bar Association, 9:30-11:30 a.m. or 1-3 p.m. $40. Proceeds benefit NCBA’s We Care Fund. Nassau County Bar Association, 15th and West Sts., Mineola. (516) 747-4070 or www.nassaubar.org.

• Holiday Celebration:Tour festive Westbury House, decorated for the season and share holiday wishes with Santa, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Enjoy hot cider and cookies on the West Porch. Kids can create ornaments to decorate Santa’s tree, 10 a.m.-1 p.m. Weekends, through Dec. 18. $8, $5 seniors and children. Old Westbury Gardens, 71 Old Westbury Rd., Old Westbury. (516) 333-0048 or www.oldwestburygardens.org.

• Holiday Lighting:Varied festivities for all ages at the Village of Malverne’s seasonal celebration, 4:45 p.m. Varied locations, Malverne. (516) 599-1200 or www.malvernevillage.org.

• Santa Visit:Greet St. Nick, presented by the Merrick Chamber of Commerce, 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Veteran’s Memorial Plaza Gazebo, Merrick. (516) 771-1171.

• Rock Hall Holiday Tour:Experience historic Rock Hall through the eyes of a “slave” on a guided tour, 1 and 2:30 p.m. She shares stories of life at the estate. Also Dec. 11. Rock Hall Museum, 199 Broadway, Lawrence. (516) 239-1157.

SUNDAY 4• Boston Pops:

Conductor Keith Lockhart and his celebrated orchestra perform popular holiday favorites, 2 p.m. With pop sensation Rockapella. $120, $80, $50. Tilles Center for the Performing Arts, C.W. Post Campus, Route 25A, Brookville. (516) 299-3100 or (800) 745-3000 or www.ticketmaster.com.

• Gingerbread House Contest and Bake Sale:Vote for your favorite house, 1-4 p.m.; with decorative icing demonstration at 2 p.m. Presented by Valley Stream Historical Society. Pagan-Fletcher Restoration, 143 Hendrickson Ave., Valley Stream. (516) 825-7157 or 872-4159.

• Long Island Flute Club: The popular ensemble of local musicians returns to Old Westbury Gardens Red Ballroom, with a delightful holiday concert, 1 p.m $8, $5 seniors and children. Old Westbury Gardens, 71 Old Westbury Rd., Old Westbury. (516) 333-0048 or www.oldwestburygardens.org.

• Winter Celebration:Lynbrook kicks off the holiday season, 4-7 p.m., tree lighting is at 4:15 p.m. With entertainment, Santa’s house, and horse-drawn sleigh rides, caroling and more. Bring a new, unwrapped gift for a needy child. Atlantic Ave., Lynbrook.

• Waldorf Choral Society Holiday Concert:Hear Bach Cantatas $147, #137 and #150 and Handel’s Psalm 112, 3 p.m. With featured soloists and a chamber orchestra. $28, $18 seniors/students. Cathedral of the Incarnation, 50 Cathedral Ave., Garden City.

MONDAY 5• Blessing of the Creche:

Annual blessing takes place, 6:30 p.m., at Merrick Rd. and Blake Ave., Lynbrook.

TUESDAY 6• Holiday Concert:

Hofstra’s University Choir and StringOrchestra perform, 8 p.m. $10, $8 seniors/students. Hofstra University’s John Cranford Adams Playhouse, South Campus, Hempstead. (516) 463-6644.

• Light Up for Christ:Everyone is invited to bring an ornament to help decorate the Christmas Tree in the lobby of the Sienna Center, 7 p.m. With prayer service and music. St. Catherine of Sienna Center, 980 Holzheimer St., Franklin Square. (917) 587-9647.

WEDNESDAY 7• Holiday Tea at

Old Westbury Gardens:Enjoy tea in festive Westbury House, 1:30 p.m. Also Dec. 14. $35. Reservations required. Old Westbury Gardens, 71 Old Westbury Rd., Old Westbury. (516) 333-0048 or www.oldwestburygardens.org.

Thursday 8• Paul J. Muscarella

Holiday Lighting Ceremony: Usher in the festive season, sponsored by the Elmont Chamber of Commerce, 5:30 p.m. Also visit with Santa at the Covert Avenue School, with hot chocolate and candy canes. Veteran’s Square, corner of Hempstead Tpke. and Covert Ave. Elmont.

Friday 9• Hofstra Chorale and

Chamber Singers: The ensembles perform and eclectic selection of choral music, 8 p.m. $10, $8 seniors/students. Cathedral of the Incarnation, 50 Cathedral Ave., Garden City. (516) 463-5497.

• The Nutcracker:New York Dance Theatre’s production is performed the George Balanchine tradi-tion, with guest artists from New York City Ballet and MOMIX, 12 and 5 p.m. Also Dec. 11, and 17-18 $35, $28 seniors and children 12 and under. Hofstra University’s John Cranford Adams Playhouse, Hempstead.(888) 695-0888 or www.ohmanballet.org.

• Tree Lighting and Holiday Festival:Santa visits East Rockaway for a festive celebration, 6-9 p.m. With entertainment. Village Hall/Senior Center, East Rockaway.

Saturday 10• Breakfast With Santa:

Holiday fun for the family, 8:30 a.m. 10:30 a.m. and 12:30 p.m. $10. Tickets required. St. Mary’s Council Knights of Columbus, 78 Hempstead Ave., Lynbrook.

• Darlene Love Sings “Love for the Holidays:The iconic ‘60s vocalist celebrates the season, 8 p.m. $55, $50. Jeanne Rimsky Theater at Landmark on Main Str., 232 Main St., Port Washington. (516) 767-6444 or www.landmarkonmainstreet.org.

• Holiday Lighting:Celebrate the season with friends and neighbors at Valley Stream’s tree lighting, Saturday, 5 p.m. With visit from Santa. Village Hall, 123 S. Central Ave., Valley Stream.

Sunday 11• Horse and Carriage Rides:

Cozy up with an old-fashioned ride through Long Beach’s historic Red Brick district, 3 p.m. $10. Reservations required. Begins at Felix House, 151 W. Penn St., Long Beach. (516) 431-2140 or www.LBILA.org.

Monday 12• Tree Lighting:

Join The Friends of North Valley Stream for a festive celebration, 6 p.m. With performances by the James A. Dever School jazz band and the Howell Road School Chorale. Matthew Giglio Plaza, Dutch Broadway and Corona Ave., North Valley Stream.




Musical tradition: Capture the magic of the season with the Boston Pops Esplanade Orchestra. Conductor Keith Lockhart brings New England’s beloved holiday Pops back to the area on Dec. 4, at Tilles Center for the Performing Arts.

Visions of sugarplums: Leggz Ltd. Dance performs its annual full-length production of The Nutcracker, Dec. 2-4, at Rockville Centre’s South Side High School. As always, the production features the 70-piece South Shore Symphony Orchestra, with professional and student dancers.

Cherished celebration: Old Westbury Gardens’ Westbury House opens its doors for its annual holiday festivities, a Long Island tradition. The home’s period rooms are beautifully and exquisitely decorated with wreaths, mantelpiece drapes, topiaries, plants and other horticultural arrangements. Holiday events continue weekly throughout December.




December cont’d

Tuesday 13• Holiday Lighting:

Honor loved ones at Mercy Medical Center’s Tree of Lights holiday celebration, 7 p.m. Blessing and lighting take place in front of hospital, followed by refreshments in Main Lobby. Mercy Medical Center, 1000 N. Village Ave., Rockville Centre. (516) 705-1833.

Saturday 17• Holiday Rides:

Sponsored by the Lynbrook Fire Department, noon-3 p.m. Earle Ave. Parking Field #8, Lynbrook.

Sunday 18• A Christmas Carol:

A staged reading, 2 p.m. Adelphi University’s Olmsted Theater, 1 South Ave., Garden City. (516) 877-4000.

• Hanukkah Party: Celebrate the Festival of Lights at Friedberg JCC’s community party, 11 a.m.-1 p.m. With crafts, entertainment, menorah lighting, food, holiday boutique, fun for kids, and much more. $18 per family, $6 each additional. Friedberg JCC, 15 Neil Court, Oceanside. (516) 766-4341.

Tuesday 20• Menorah Lighting:

Join the community for the annual Hanukkah celebration, 7 p.m. Five Corners, Lynbrook.

• Menorah Lighting: Commemorate the Festival of Lights, 5 p.m., Sunrise Hwy. and South Franklin Ave., Valley Stream.

Wednesday 21• Menorah Lighting:

Celebrate Hanukkah at East Rockaway’s annual lighting, 5:15 p.m. Village Hall, East Rockaway.

Monday 26• Candlelight Tour:

Visit Pagan-Fletcher Restoration by candlelight, presented by Valley Stream Historical Society, 6-8 p.m. Bring donations of canned food items for local pantries. 143 Hendrickson Ave., Valley Stream. (516) 825-7157 or 872-4159.The holiday season wouldn’t be complete without a visit from

Scrooge. A Christmas Carol is performed at Tilles Center for the Performing Arts, Nov. 27. Dickens’ fable of redemption comes to life, as a full array of timeless carols, including “God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen,” “Away in a Manger” and “Here We Come A-Wassailing” are interwoven within the classic story.

Holiday extravaganza: Families throughout the area enjoy the Long Island Festival of Trees, Nov. 25-27, at Cradle of Aviation Museum. This annual event is renowned for its spectacular array of designer-decorated trees and gingerbread village. Live entertainment, a visit from Santa, vendor marketplace, and children’s activities kick off the holiday season. All proceeds raised benefit the United Cerebral Palsy Association of Nassau County, Inc. and the Cradle of Aviation Museum.

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Top gifts for pets

It’s good to be the family pet, especially at during the festive season when so many pets get spoiled with lavish holiday gifts. According to the American Pet Products Association, of the 72.9 million American households owning a pet, many treat their animals as members of the family, indeed as their own children. To reward their pets for the unconditional love, laughter and positive health

benefits they bring, owners are buying fabulous gifts for them. Gift buying for pets is such an enormous trend that, according to the APPA: “More and more companies traditionally known for human products are going to the dogs, and cats, and reptiles. Big-name companies are now offering lines of pet products ranging from dog shampoo, pet attire, and name-brand toys to gourmet treats and food.” As pet owners shop for themselves and the humans on their gift lists, they’re also picking out choice items for their pampered pets. Their dogs will wear brand names and eat brand-name foods, just as their owners do. Another leading trend in today’s hot gifts for pets is personalized everything. Owners are ordering monogrammed sweaters or even designing custom T-shirts for their dogs to wear while out on walks or strut-ting their style at the dog park. Other personalized gift items include food and water bowls, collars, leashes, bedding and toys.

Apparel Believe it or not, pets are getting faux mink coats this holiday season. The APPA reports this fashion piece as part of a growing trend in “straight from the catwalk” designer apparel for pets, along with designer plaid jackets, matching jeweled and leather collar and leash sets, and holiday outfits. If a personalized T-shirt is not high-fashion enough, pet owners are going to upscale pet boutiques to buy designer apparel and accessories, including brand-name booties to keep pets’ paws warm and protected in winter. And give your dog some style with his or her tags, such as those from Wags & Tags, made with precious metals and stones.

Pet Spa Pets are now given treatments at luxury pet spas, including grooming and hair coloring, nail painting using eco-friendly products, fur conditioners, teeth cleaning and polishing, and even massages and chiropractic sessions that older pets, particularly those with arthritis, may enjoy. Cats can spend the day in a toy-filled fantasy suite, as well. As any great spa will provide, pets dine on healthy gourmet fare and even drink fresh spring water from a fountain, says the APPA. Not to be left out, birds may get pedicures, as well, and the spa’s take-home goodie bag will often include organic cleaning cloths, aromatherapy products for pets’ stress levels, and scented gel air fresheners to keep the pet’s room and the owner’s home free of odors.

Food and Treats While owners receive edibles gifts of their own, such as chocolate truffles and gourmet popcorn, pets are given their own brands of organic and spe-cial-formula food and treats. One popular name for the brand-fan is Rachael Ray’s Nutrish line of natural pet foods and treats, with profits going to charities for animals in need. To date, Ray’s Rescue charity has raised more than $2 million. In addition to celebrity-brand foods, all manner of pet treats are avail-able, such as doggie cupcakes and peanut-butter bars. Edibles might be the pet’s gift, or you could stuff his or her stocking full of them.

Toys Caring pet owners know that pet toys can harbor bacteria or even dust mites over time, so they often choose to replace their pets’ last-season toys with a whole new collection of plush squeaky toys, catnip balls, birdcage mirrors and bells, and hamster balls. The owner’s “children” love to get toys, and many – such as tug toys for dogs – are also designed to help with clean-ing pets’ teeth.

Lifestyle The pet who’s toted around with his owner can travel in style with the gift of a new carrier, and the APPA says that some owners are purchasing leather carriers complete with cellphone and water bottle holders to keep them in style, as well. The good life may include the pet’s new automatic feeder and water dispenser, a self-cleaning litter box, enhanced terrarium lighting systems, or an expanded habitat for hamsters with additional wheels, tubes and toys. And another pet-on-the-go essential is a safety har-ness and seat belt for the car, as well as a personalized comfy cashmere blanket to sit on during their travels. Pets may not dream of sugarplums while napping on their new Egyptian cotton bedding, but they’ll surely rest easily knowing how much their own-ers love them.

By Sharon Naylor

Remember your furry friends

Going to the dogs: Bling out your pets with a stylish present during this season of giving.

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Beware of seasonal hazardsThe holidays can be a pain in the neck!

With the holiday season in full swing, it is important to your good health to take a few simple steps to reduce the stress and strain of this very busy time. Chiropractor Dr. Dana Weissman

Timmins, of Bellmore, has created a list of tips to make your holidays enjoyable, and pain free. Consider this advice from Dr. Weissman Timmins as you go about your activities during this festive season. If you have to drive more than two hours to visit friends and relatives, take a break; get out of your vehicle and stretch. This temporarily restores normal posture, which will help prevent a recurrence of neck or low back conditions. When traveling by car or plane, place a pillow or folded towel behind the head and small of the back to help maintain the arches in your spine and support the

rest of the body properly. This relieves the discs and joint structures of the spine from unnecessary pressure. Lift packages, firewood, your frozen holiday turkey and other heavy items with your legs, not your back. When lifting, hold objects close to your body; rather than flex-ing forward, maintain a slight arch in your lower back and bend at the knees before stand-ing up with the object. When cooking or standing for an extended period, elevate one foot with a foot rest or stacked books, about six inches from the floor. Alternately ele-vating each foot relieves tired back and leg muscles – similar to the function the footrest serves for customers standing at a counter – and helps prevent bad postural habits that can lead to abnormal spinal curvatures. Get enough rest. Many health problems that occur with the holidays are simply due to fatigue. By simply getting adequate rest, you can help prevent structural strain, emotional imbalance, and general health problems. Courtesy of Dr. Dana Weissman Timmins. For more information, she can be reached at (516) 809-9191 or visit www.bellmorechiropractic.com.

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Happy HolidaysHappy Holidays

Video games for the whole familyGetting everyone involved is the name of the game

By now, the kids are screaming that they want every toy featured in a TV commercial to magically appear at your home this holiday season. Between this new doll and that drum set

that would be really, really loud, you don’t know what to choose from. You’d like something that is affordable but could be enjoyed for months to come and wouldn’t end up in the toy chest, unused. “Video games have gone wide, and everyone plays games now,” says David Pava, the director of marketing at D3Publisher of America Inc. “It’s assumed that families play games together.” D3Publisher is one of the biggest producers of video games for kids, and the hot new releases in the upcoming months are sure to fill your holiday gift-giving needs. For your rugrat tyke, “Ben 10: Galactic Racing” will allow him to jump into the world of “Ben 10,” the popular series on Cartoon Network. Players get to choose different aliens to drive in various karts, allowing your kids to individualize their game experience. More than 20 racing tracks add to the fun. If you have girls in your family, they probably are familiar with Nickelodeon’s live-action comedy series “Victorious.” D3Publisher gives your tween the ability to

experience the school that the show’s characters attend, in the game “Victorious: Hollywood Arts Debut.” “With ‘Victorious,’ the No. 1 thing is to bring that show to life,” Pava says. “We want to put the audience in the same classroom (as the characters) and feel like what it was like to go through a high-school classroom with those stars.” This game is built for the Nintendo DS, which, according to Pava, is a strong game system for girls. If you’re looking to purchase a hand-held system for your child, you may want to consider the new Nintendo 3DS. “It offers a completely new way to play. It lets users experience 3-D games, take 3-D pictures and watch 3-D videos without the need for special glasses,” says Cindy Gordon, the vice president of corporate affairs for Nintendo of America. Along with the release of the new 3DS system, several 3-D games are making their way to store shelves, including “Super Mario 3D Land,” “Mario Kart 7,” “Professor Layton and the Last Septor” and “Tetris: Axis.” The 3-D version of “Tetris” literally adds another dimension to the game, and Gordon says that the 20 different modes deliver never-before-seen ways to play. In addition to the newfangled 3-D options and popular titles, a big aspect to video games these days is the ability to have multiple people playing at once. “Several games provide online

gaming experiences so you can play with friends near and far,” Gordon says. Being able to play “Ben 10: Galactic Racing” with multiple people, whether they be friends or family members, is especially important when it comes to the younger demographic. “This is the game that is the ‘vehicle’ for delivering what kids want,” Pava says, referencing that most kids want to be able to play video games with others. The multi-player aspect of video games is even more important now, as families are trying to find inexpensive ways for everyone to stay entertained. Nintendo is rolling out the Nintendo Selects series, which contains classic games at cheaper prices. For example, “The Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess” and “Mario Super Sluggers” are being released at $19.99 instead of $49.99. There also will be Wii games added to the collection. “The Wii is accessible to everyone – young and old – as it makes playing video games easy,” Gordon says. So round up Grandma, the children down the street and anyone else you can think of to share in the fun of these classics. With these video game recommendations, there is no need to pull your hair out when trying to decide what to wrap up for your kiddos this year. And maybe, just maybe, they’ll let you play with them.

By Anica Wong

“Super Mario 3D Land” is one of the newest 3-D games for Nintendo’s 3DS, a hand-held system that lets you experience

the 3-D game without special glasses.

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“Christmas Dinner”Serves 10-14 People $299,00+tax

For Starters, Choice of...Lasagna Bolognese with béchamel & meat

Baked Stuffed Shells with tomato basil sauce

Choice of Green Salad...Arugula & Radicchio with goat cheese,

toasted almonds & sliced dried apricotsGorgonzola & Walnut Salad with dried cranberries

Fresh Garden Salad with balsamic vinaigrette

The Main Course...Half of a Honey-Glazed Spiral Ham -and-Our Famous Boneless Stuffed Pork Loinwith a choice of parma prosciutto & provolone

or dried fruit stuffing-or- Chicken Cacciatore sauteed boneless

chicken breast with onions, mushrooms & white wine

Choice of Side…Eggplant Parmigiano Tender Green Beans “Almondine”

Spinach & Artichoke CasseroleSilver Dollar Mushrooms w/roasted vegetable stuffing

Choice of Potato…Potatoes Rustica with onions, tomato & carrots

Creamy Garlic Mashed PotatoesHand-made Potato Croquettes

includes… One Quart of Demi Glaze

For Dessert, Choice of One of Our…Fresh Baked Pies, Cheesecake or Panettone

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My Parents Always Gave Me the Best CareThat's Why I Gave Them Comfort Keepers®

W W W . C O M F O R T K E E P E R S . C O M

5135

23East offi ce independently owned and operated.© 2010 CK Franshising, Inc.

Comfort Keepers®

SERVICES• Companionship• Meal Preparation• Light housekeeping• Transportation to Appointments• Grooming, Dressing Guidance• Medication Reminders• Certifi ed by the Alzheimer's Association of Long Island

AARPEndorsed

Comfort Keepers® provides in-home care that makes a difference in the lives of seniors and other adults. For over a decade, clients and their families have entrusted their care to us in hundreds of local communities. Whether companionship and light housekeeping ormedication reminders and transportation to doctor's appointments, we provide the supprt and services that improve lives and enable independent living.

Call us today for a free in-home visit.

[email protected]

Serving Nassau County and Surrounding Areas

25 Davis Avenue Port Washington NY

THANKSGIVING WEEKEND SPECIAL!

(while supplies last)

SPECIAL HOURS:

BLACK FRIDAY 11.25.11

FREE ADOPTIONS between 9am – 10am

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AGIC- Herald Comm

unity Newspapers

Hours: Mon.-Thurs. 10-9Fri. 10-8 • Sat 9-6 • Sun. 11-5

3050 Long Beach Rd. • Oceanside

516-678-1190www.lihomeappliance.com

Enjoy Easy Living At...

APPLIANCES & FURNISHINGS FOR EASY LIVING

Visit……Visit……WWW.WWW.LIHOMEAPPLIANCELIHOMEAPPLIANCE.COM.COM

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BEDDINGBEDDING

WALL UNITS, BOOKCASES & MORE!WALL UNITS, BOOKCASES & MORE!

riversideriversidedream. live. connect.dream. live. connect.

FIREPLACES

HDTVs

OVER 500 OVER 500 FABRIC CHOICES!!FABRIC CHOICES!!

ENTERTAINMENT ENTERTAINMENT CENTERSCENTERS

SECTIONALS, SOFAS & LOVESEATSHOME THEATER & RECLINERS

APPLIANCESAPPLIANCES

24 Months 24 Months FinancingFinancing**

UP TO

• Over 200 Years of Combined Sales Knowledge• Over 200 Years of Combined Sales Knowledge• No Pressure Sales…Our Non Commissioned Sales Associates Work as a Team to Benefi t You• No Pressure Sales…Our Non Commissioned Sales Associates Work as a Team to Benefi t You• We Go the Extra Mile To Supply You With the Best Pricing, Service & Information Possible• We Go the Extra Mile To Supply You With the Best Pricing, Service & Information Possible

We Know We Know You Have Choices...You Have Choices...

??

SO WHY BUY AT

So why buy at

• We Are Members of a $10 Billion Dollar National Buying Cooperative, Assuring You of The Best Prices• We Are Members of a $10 Billion Dollar National Buying Cooperative, Assuring You of The Best Pricesand Customer Supportand Customer Support

• Huge Multi-Level Showroom, Displaying a Large Assortment of Appliances, Flat Panel TVs, Bose Audio, • Huge Multi-Level Showroom, Displaying a Large Assortment of Appliances, Flat Panel TVs, Bose Audio, Fireplaces & Furniture For Every Room of Your Home Fireplaces & Furniture For Every Room of Your Home• We are an Appreciative Community-Minded Store That Supports Neighborhood Endeavors• We are an Appreciative Community-Minded Store That Supports Neighborhood Endeavors

38334_Home_LIH(C)_112511.indd 1 11/17/11 11:21 AM

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Or give thema gift card &

let them choose

Or give themive them

a seasonof values!

Find the gifts they’ll love at Green Acres Mall

Bath and Body Works

Perfumania

Over 150 Stores

Saturday, November 26 10:30 am - 4:30 pm Donate blood at Green Acres Mall on 11/26/11 and get a $10 Mall Gift Card.

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holiday magic 2011 - november 25, 2011

Documents

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