Tis the Season 2012

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T i st

h e

S e a so n

2012

NewsC A D I L L A C

Trusted. Local. Connected.

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2 ‘Tis The season - Cadillac News www.cadillacnews.com | Friday, December 7, 2012

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Sharon naylor

Who doesn’t love receiving cashgits? The git o money allows yourrecipient to buy anything he or shewould like, without your having toguess or potentially send a presentyou think is clever but goes right intotheir garage sale bin. These days, es-pecially, a little windall allows your

recipient to enjoy an indulgence, suchas a manicure, a massage or a abulousbox o trues. Even better, there’s noguilt associated with spending this ex-tra money. It’s or pure enjoyment.

Joel Waldogel, proessor o ap-plied economics at the University o Minnesota and author o “Scrooge-nomics: Why You Shouldn’t BuyPresents or the Holidays,” mentionsthat recipients o cash gits appreciate

the ull value o the present, since theyknow the amount. In contrast, Wald-ogel says that recipients perceive tra-ditional, non-cash gits at 20 percentless than the giver paid, so giving themcash creates a greater sense o satisac-tion. Applying this “perceived value”to git cards would seem to makesense, but Waldogel says that 10 per-cent o a git card value is never used,and retailers can’t claim the unclaimedcards as revenue or years. So it seems

that cash gits stimulate the economy,while pleasing git recipients with apocket ull o money they can enjoyspending.

Interested in giving cash gits?Here are some creative ways to pres-ent those cash gits, making the giteven more o a thrill:

Origami. The artistry o olding, curling and otherwise shap-ing crisp dollar bills into shapes and

sculptures is a un way to present cashgits. You’ll pay just a small ee extraor an origami artist to make moneyroses, money hearts, even little shirtscreated rom $1s, $10s, $20s, even $50sor $100 bills or a more extravagant

git. You’ll fnd lessons at YouTubeto try your hand at money origami,books on the topic at crat stores, andexpert origami artists who can createyour cash sculpture or you. Manyorist shops oer money rose origa-mi to insert in oral arrangements orto give as gits, and at the Etsy shop“Paper Aection” (http://www.etsy.com/shop/PaperAection), the artistwill make blooming roses and othershapes rom American and oreigncurrency.

Feng shui red prosperity en-velopes. In a recent interview on theOprah.com site, fnancial guru andbest-selling author Suze Orman saysthat she likes to give money in red engshui envelopes, which – according tothe ancient philosophy o attractingenergy, luck and other positives via

symbolic placement o items – makesa git o the envelope itsel. When therecipient fnds a cash git in the redenvelope, he or she can then removethe cash, fll the red envelope withnine coins o any type and then placethe lucky envelope at the entrance to aroom or in a room’s “fnancial corner”to attract wealth and fnancial health.

Wallet stuffing. Giving agit o a stylish wallet or change purse

gets even more exciting when the re-cipient opens the wallet to fnd a nicestack o crisp $20s or a pile o $10s ora voluminous git.

Stand-ups. Look at cuteand creative place card stands, withthemed bottom designs such as star-fsh, little chairs and other items, andmetal stands designed to hold printedplace card signs. Instead o those littleprinted cards, slip in a crisp $5 or $10

to each o six or e ight standup holders,and either display this git on a table,or wrap them all together in a prettybox, with the place card stands be-coming the secondary git the recipi-ent will use again and again.

Gift tins. At the crat store’s

wrapping and party avor section,you’ll fnd trendy, patterned at gittins designed or holding git cards.These zebra-striped, sports-logo, orother themed git tins are the perectholders or your cash gits – and again,the git tin can be used again.

Paper bands. As an easydo-it-yoursel crat, simply cut alength o patterned paper – perhapsrom a pad o scrapbook papers – to

create a two inch-wide band that youwrap around the pile o money. Securewith double-sided tape, and decoratewith a rubber stamp design, sticker,wax seal or a message you write on theband in metallic marker.

I your recipients live ar away,you may be tempted to send moneyvia PayPal, but be aware that yourrecipient may have to open a PayPalaccount i he or she doesn’t have one,and PayPal may charge a ee to therecipient (or to you, i you oer topay it.) I you decide to mail moneyto a araway loved one, do so saely,using trackable and insured mail, and

check the U.S. Postal Service’s website(http://www.usps.gov) or the mostcurrent regulations about mailing cashnationally and overseas.

© 2012 CrEaTorS.CoM

Creative Ways To Give CashAn alternative to holiday presents

Creators.Com photo Courtesy of paper affeCtion

Turn cash gifts into works of art.



Diane SchlinDwein

Furby is back and better than ever; Barbie will be taking a lot o pictures;and Monster High dolls and accessories probably will be smashing allthe holiday competition, say experts when describing the “hot toys” or

Christmas 2012.No. 1 on the Mattel top 12 list is the Barbie Photo Fashion doll.

The doll is actually a digital camera, and Barbie’s shirt is where thedigital image will appear. At $49.99, this doll is a little pricier thanyour usual Barbie, but she can hold more than 200 images andeatures an internal rechargeable battery. She’ll be a hit with youryoung photographer on Christmas morning and beyond.

“This year, we are introducing an innovative doll that lets girlscustomize, create and design, all in one interactive toy. The BarbiePhoto Fashion doll combines ashion play and photographywith a simple click,” says Cathy Cline, vice president o U.S.

marketing or Mattel’s girls brands. “With this digital cameradoll, girls can customize their own photos and then displaythem on Barbie’s T- shirt – allowing them to be the ultimatephotographer and stylist.”

Mattel also has launched Apptivity, which is a new line o

toys made rom plastic that interact with iPad games. In other words,Apptivity brings toys to lie and turns tablets into moving digital worlds andis compatible with the iPad. Fisher-Price Apptivity items are compatible withthe iPhone and the iPod Touch. Games will include “Hot Wheels,” “Cut theRope,” “WWE Rumblers” and “Fruit Ninja.”

“With millions o households now owning iPads, we sought out ameaningul way to create new play possibilities that both entertain and bringamilies together,” says Lisa McKnight, senior vice president o marketing

or Mattel’s North American division. “Apptivity meets the needs o today’s tech-savvy kids while showcasing our trusted brands and best-

in-class partners.”Families who want to play a new and un board game might

want to consider giving the “Angry Birds Space Game,” saysChristopher Byrne, known across the country as The ToyGuy. “The app is now a board game,” he says. “This is the

latest version rom Mattel. It’s really selling well.”

Lego toys have long been a avorite with boys, but the comanyhas launched a new item in Lego Friends, says Byrne, who isalso associated with TimetoPlayMag.com. “This is the frstgirl-centered line rom Lego,” he says. “It caused a bit o a stirwhen it was launched earlier this year, but it’s doing very well

and is very popular.”One toy that’s making a comeback is the odd-looking but un

Furby. “Yes, it’s back, but I have to say that they’ve done a really great job o updating the technology, so the play is better than ever,” Byrne

says.The Bounce Bounce Tigger, rom Just Play, is a “new version o a toy

that was a hit about eight years ago,” Byrne says. Seeing as the toy ismeant or preschoolers, there is a “totally new consumer base since then,”he says. “They’ve done a great job animating the toy, and it’s hilarious.”

High-energy boys with time on their hands over the holiday break canplay outside with the Ner N-Strike Elite Hail-Fire. “This is one o themost high-powered Ner guns yet. It shoots up to 75 eet and can hold upto 104 oam darts,” Byrne says.

Though it is still a little early to know or sure the way all toy saleswill go, Byrne makes one prediction on which both he and Mattel agree.Mattel is promoting Monster High High School on its top 12 toy list, andByrne thinks the toy company is right on the mark. Girls also will enjoythe Monster High Create-A-Monster kit, according to Mattel.

When it comes to the Monster High and Ghouls Rule dolls, Byrneconcludes, “You will not be able to get these by Nov. 1, and I’d bet moneyon that – or at least they’ll be very hard to fnd. Monster High is completelyon fre rom a sales perspective.”

© 2012 cReaTORS.cOM


What’s hot

this season

The BarBie PhoTo Fashion doll is acTually a digiTal camera.

creaTors.com PhoTo courTesy oF maTTel

The Monster High two-story school features some of the most rec-ognizable rooms from the webisodes, including the iconic school en-trance through the gargoyle statues and the mad science classroom.




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AnicA Wong

Whether it is in Sunday school or at home around the kitchentable, most o us learned that when we have more than what we need,we should give to those less ortunate. And or the most part, peoplearound the U.S. do give. According to a new study by the Chronicleo Philanthropy, Americans, on average, give 4.7 percent o theirdiscretionary income to charity, donating more than $135 billion in2008 (the most recent IRS tax records available or data analysis).

While the study doesn't show when most o these donations aregiven, Miriam Davenport o the Society or the Prevention o Crueltyto Animals Los Angeles says that the majority o their donationscome during the holiday season. "A lot o people, especially in thelast ew years, have opted to help others (during that time)," she says.Davenport, the senior director o development with the SPCALA,points out that there are many ways that donating to your avoritecharity instead o giving gits to your riends and amily this yearcan beneft the organization, as well as provide a eeling o good will.

"We rely 100 percent on donations," Davenport says. "It isimportant to have support rom our local community." The animalshelter has several ways that a person can donate. Like mostorganizations that take donations, the SPCALA has a donation pageon their website. They even oer to send out an e-card or a mailedcard to a person i you donate money in honor o them. Instead o spending money on toys and clothes that your amily and riendsmight get little joy rom, giving money to help the shelter is a win-win or everyone.

Davenport says that like other animal shelters, they also acceptood, blankets, toys and other items. These objects get put togood use by the more than 3,000 animals that get adopted throughSPCALA every year.

I you're not a pet person, there are many other places yourgenerous donation can be put to good use instead o being used onceand thrown away, as many Christmas presents are these days.

The Internet has made donating easier than ever. Justgive.orghas simplifed the process even more by pulling together more than1.8 million charities into a single database. The cool part about the

website? You can give charity git cards. "You choose the value o the cards; your recipient chooses the charity; their charity receives adonation – everyone wins," states the website. So instead o buyingyour mom another sweater, put that money on a GiveNow card, andlet her pick the charity to which she'd like to donate. They even let

Creators.Com photo Courtesy of spCaLa

Consider donating the money youwould usually spend on gifts to alocal pet shelter.

‘TIS THE SEASON FOR GIVINGConsider donating your money instead of buying gifts

you upload your own imageto personalize your git cards.

I you're looking to aecta single person this holidayseason with your giving,consider sponsoring a child.While it can be overwhelming to think about all o the children inthe world who need help, ocus on making a dierence here at home.According to Save the Children, one in our American kids (or 15million children) lives in poverty. This organization oers options tosponsor a child in the United States. Your money not only supportsthat child, but also helps Save the Children to provide literacy, earlyeducation and nutritional programs around the country.

This year could be the year that you give back instead o justgiving.

©2012 cREAToRS.coM




By Kris Verhage

CadillaC News

It’s the most wonderul o the time o theyear … though some days it may not seemlike it.

It’s natural or stress levels to rise dur-ing the holidays as you try to get everythingready or the big day – the cooking, thecleaning, the decorating, the shopping and

the git-wrapping.And, it’s easy or tempers to are when

the kids are less than cooperative, making ithard or you to get those holiday tasks outo the way.

Thomas Haller is a Saginaw County-based therapist who specializes in parent-ing and relationship matters. He oers theollowing tips or amilies looking to getthrough the holiday season without yelling

and without threatening to put someone onSanta’s naughty list.

First, it’s important or amilies to con-tinue to ollow schedules and routines —bedtimes, meals, naptimes and so on.

The hustle and bustle o the holiday sea-son makes it easy or kids’ routines to tem-porarily all by the wayside, he says.

“That’s when their behavior starts to geto track,” Haller says.

Next, don’t expect fnish a task — likedecorating the house — in one shot. Breakup tasks into smaller increments that can bedone around your kids’ schedules, such asduring baby’s naptime or the oldest’s bas-ketball practice.

However, sometimes the only time youhave or yoursel is ater the kids go to bed,

and it’s unrealistic to think you have thetime and energy to get everything done aterhours.

So Haller oers this next tip: “Invitethem to get involved.”

By including the kids in the holidaypreparations, the kids in turn will give youthe time you need to fnish tasks, he says.

According to Haller, here are some waysthe kids can help out:• Give them presents to wrap. If you’ve got

wrapping paper and tape to spare, let theyounger ones pretend to wrap gits.

• Let them decide where certain decora-tions should be placed.

• Get them busy in the kitchen. Kids asyoung as 3 can help with the holidaybaking by scooping or mixing dough.

A less-stressed family holidayTherapist offers tips on what to do when the kids are underfoot

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Eric christEnsEn

The holidays can be a stressul time o year.Cooking and party planning can create logisticalnightmares. Traveling to meet riends and amily

can become an ordeal. For new parents, the stresso the holidays is oten more extreme. A new babymeans new routines, increased travel dicultiesand less sleep. But the right git can help alleviatethat stress. Here are some git ideas to help the newparents in your lie have a happy holiday season.

Taking Care of the BasicsDuring the rst ew months ater the baby

is born, parents can get overwhelmed due to alack o time, energy and sleep. You can alleviate

the resulting stress by helping them take careo basic things around the house, like groceriesand cleaning. Prepare meals or them that can berozen and reheated when needed. As an addedconvenience, divide the meal up into two-portionsizes.

I you are not a cook, buy the new parents a gitcerticate to a local grocery or a grocery-deliveryservice. Most grocers will list such services ontheir website. Look or an in-house service, suchas Saeway’s, or links to a separate company, such

as Peapod.New parents can all behind on housecleaning

ater the birth o a child. I you live nearby, youcould volunteer to clean. Alternatively, arrangeor a housecleaning service, either in advance o the birth or a short time ater. Consider carpet-

cleaning services, such as Stanley Steemer, thatprovide a long-lasting, deep clean, or hire a maidservice to clean the entire house or specic rooms,such as a kitchen or bathroom.

A Quiet Night at HomeNew parents cannot go out to restaurants or

movies like they did beore the baby. But youcan help them enjoy a special evening together athome. Netfix oers a range o git subscriptionsto its online library o streaming TV shows andmovies, eliminating any need to go pick up a videorental. Similarly, an Amazon.com git certicatecan be used to buy a new DVD or Blu-ray, orto rent something rom Amazon’s Instant Videolibrary.

Consider buying the new parents a git basketto go along with the entertainment. Many storesand online retailers oer baskets lled with cheese,chocolates or other treats. You can also help thenew parents unwind ater a long day by choosinga basket containing the new parents’ avorite adultbeverages and the appropriate glassware.

Date NightWhen the new parents eel comortable going

out again, give them a memorable date night.Consider the new parents’ interests, hobbies anddreams. Perhaps they would like a git certicateto a new restaurant in town or an old avorite.Or maybe they would like tickets to see a play,comedian or band. I you think they would like to

try something new, pay or two spots in a cookingor dance class.

Most spas oer a couple’s session that is aperect stress-reliever or new parents. And, o course, volunteering to baby-sit during the date

or arranging or a babysitter will go a long waytoward letting the new parents ocus on themselvesor a ew hours.

Keeping in TouchLastly, you can help new parents keep in

touch with ar-o amily members. The LogitechHD Pro C920 allows new parents to chat onlinein ull HD 1080p, and the webcam’s dual stereomicrophones allow or crystal-clear sound. TheSony Bloggie Live HD camera allows new parentsto stream HD video live to your social networksor personal blog, or you can record and uploadthose videos later.

Ater a quick setup, the Eye-Fi Connect X2SDHC wireless fash memory card allows parentsto upload 2 to 8 gigabytes o photos to yourcomputer without any cords, plugs or adapters.Also, a set o rechargeable batteries and a chargerwill eliminate many missed moments.

When buying a git or new parents, ocus onthe little things. Your git can become the extra set

o hands new parents need in a moment o stress orexhaustion. It can be the spark that helps rekindlethe romance between the parents. Or it can be theglue that brings a distant amily together.

cOPYriGht 2012 crEAtOrs.cOM

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Catherine MCnulty

Chances are you have at least one gameron your holiday list this year. Apps orsmartphones, online role-playing gamesand tons o dierent gaming systems havemade it easy and accessible to play videogames anywhere and with or againstanybody. What used to be an activityrelegated to dorky, adolescent boys, hasbecome a pastime or a huge swath o the

population. But fnding the perect git cantake a little sleuthing. What kind o gamerare you shopping or?

Pow! Bam! Swoosh!Does your gamer dream in

onomatopoeic sounds and spandexoutfts? Fear not, tremulous holidayshopper, you’re shopping or a superheroanatic! Fortunately, gits abound or yourwould-be caped crusader.

I your loved one has allegiance to aspecifc super, why not get a portrait o

him/her as that superhero? The ComicsFactory can do just that! Featuringofcially licensed Marvel characters,each portrait is digitally hand illustratedto transorm any picture into a comic-style masterpiece. No quick drag anddrop Photoshoppery here. Check out theselection at https://thecomicsactory.com.And really, who doesn’t want to be a parto the Avengers?

With the release o Nintendo’s

Wii U – the next generation o the Wiigaming system – “Batman: Arkham City”is getting an upgrade, as well.The Armored Edition is anenhanced version o this award-winning game that all but putsthe players in the Batsuit. Beprepared to deploy the batarangs– KER-CHANG! Also availablethis holiday season is “LEGOBatman 2: DC Super Heroes,” orthose who preer their video games

and childhood toys to happily coexist.Or i you’re araid your wannabe hero honey is

going to reeze during those long, late night gamingsessions, you can always get an ofcial Batman orSuperman Snuggie. Yes, they really exist.

But what i your gamer isn’t gaga or capes and

tights? What i you know when your gamer is aroundbecause o the incessant Mario Bros. ring tones andrepeating o the phrase “It’s on like ‘Donkey Kong’!”You may be shopping or a classic video gamer.

Chances are, they have the games they love already,so what could you possibly buy them? Accessories,toys, and clothing, oh my! The classic NintendoEntertainment System is benefting rom a hugeboom in nostalgia, and you can now buy everythingrom Nintendo wall graphics to Nintendo Monopoly

eaturing all your avorite 8-bit characters.Got a sugar junkie on your hands?How about Mario Brothers gummies?ThinkGeek has an excellent selection.

Maybe you have younger childrenwho love being on the computer. Thereare plenty o un and educational games tochoose rom. I you’ve got a mini Sherlockon your hands, “The Great CookieThie” app or iPhone and iPad will allowyoungsters to help Cookie Monster fndout who has been stealing all the cookies onSesame Street. “Scribblenauts Unlimited”is or slightly older children and will helpbuild vocabulary and reasoning throughpuzzles and challenges.

For the pop culture savvy person on yourlist, everything rom Cartoon Network’shit “Adventure Time” to “LEGO Lordo the Rings” to “Madagascar 3: Europe’sMost Wanted” is getting the video gametreatment. The question is, When they’reall this awesome, which one do you buy?Alas, some questions can only be answeredthusly: All o them!

Occasionally, you may want yourgamer to step away rom the screen and

into the real world. Does this mean theyneed to orsake their allegiance to gaming?O course not! You can ully kit out youravorite gamer with T-shirts, hoodies,buttons and even coee mugs rom websitessuch as CaePress, Zazzle and Threadless.They have tons o game-inspired designs,

sarcastic slogans and reasonable prices.And where best to wear these new threads? Why

not take your gamer to the movies to see a movieabout a video game villain who wants to be the goodguy or once? Disney’s “Wreck It Ralph” opens Nov.

2, and plenty o old-school gaming villains makeappearances.

This holiday season, you may fnd yoursel wishing everyone were as easy to shop or as a gamer.

© 2012 CreatOrS.COM

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Creators.Com photo Courtesy of the ComiCs faCtory

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Thursday, December 7, 2012 | www.cadillacnews.com Cadillac News - ‘Tis The season 15

Chandra Orr

Nothing says you care quite like a handmade git, but why should the hu-mans have all the un? Surprise your avorite eline or canine companion with agit rom the heart such as homemade biscuits, gourmet chicken jerky or tempt-ing catnip treats.

“DIY gits or pet lovers are really un to make,” says Jennier Quasha, au-thor o more than 40 books, including “The Dog Lover’s Book o Crats” and“Chicken Soup or the Soul: I Can’t Believe My Dog Did That!”

“The whole time you’re working on the project, you’re thinking o yourriend, his or her pet, and how much they will like or get a chuckle out o whatyou are creating,” Quasha says. “It says that you care enough to spend a lotmore time making something than going out and buying something.”

While you’re in the kitchen crating your signature Christmas cookies, pouran extra cup o cocoa, and cook up these gourmet goodies or the dogs andcats on your list -- and don’t orget the git wrap. For paws-itively pleasingpackaging, pack the tasty treats in holiday tins or estive Chinese takeout-stylecontainers. In lieu o a bow and git tag, top it o with a new collar and person-alized dog tag -- or or the kitties, a catnip toy mouse or jingle ball.

Super Soup BoneInstead o splurging on pricey bones at the pet store, make your own rom

an inexpensive grocery store staple: bee soup bones. Traditionally used ormaking homemade broth, these hety bones are simple to prepare, and they’re

just as indulgent as the basted, meaty bee bones but at a raction o the price.To prepare, place in a glass baking dish and cook at 250 F or two hours or

until the bone is golden brown and the meat chunks are crisp. Remove rom thebaking dish and place on paper towels until cooled. Store in a zip-close bag inthe ridge until git-giving time. Bones can be rerigerated up to two weeks orstored in the reezer or up to two months.

Gourmet Chicken JerkyChicken jerky or dogs is a ll the rage, and or good reason. It’s chewy, satis-

ying and packed with protein -- but it’s also pricey and potentially loaded withunhealthy additives. Bake your own at home in a ood dehydrator, and you’llbe certain it’s 100 percent natural.

“As a dog owner, I care about what my dog eats as much as I care about whatI eat,” says Pamela Braun, recipe developer and the voice behind the websiteMy Man’s Belly. “One o my avorite gits to give to my riends that own dogsis a git o dehydrated chicken breast treats. With all the concerns surroundingtreats being imported rom China, these homemade treats show your riendsthat you care about their pet, just like you care about them.”

DIY PET PRESENTSGourmet gifts for Fluffy and Fido

Slice boneless, skinless chicken breast into 1/4-inch slices. The overall shapedoesn’t matter, Braun says, but the thickness o each slice should be uniorm.

Lay out the chicken pieces on the dehydrator tray, leaving room betweeneach piece. Dehydrate or eight hours at 145 F. The chicken pieces should snapwhen broken. I they’re still exible, continue dehydrating until crispy. Store jerky in zip-close bags or airtight containers.

Don’t have a dehydrator? Place sliced chicken on baking sheets, and bake inthe oven at 200 F or two hours, or until done.

Catnip Tuna TreatsThese catnip-inused tuna treats are sure to please even the most fnickyeline. The recipe makes enough to share with all the cat lovers on your list, andit sure beats the standard store-bought are.

1 can tuna, well-drained1/3 cup Bisquick baking mix1 large egg, beaten2-3 tablespoons milk1 cup dried catnipPreheat oven to 350 F. Place tuna in ood processor or blender, and

blend into a thick paste. In a large mixing bowl, mix the tuna, Bisquick, egg,milk and 1/2 cup dried catnip until well moistened. Add additional milk as

needed. Mixture should resemble thick, sticky dough.Roll the mixture into small, bite-sized balls. Roll each ball in the remining

catnip and place on greased cookie sheet. Bake at 350 F or 5-8 minutes until set.Treats should be sot, not crunchy. Let treats cool at room temperature or twohours. Store in an airtight container in the rerigerator or up to fve days or inthe reezer or up to one month.

Peanut Butter “Gingerbread” BiscuitsWith wholesome ingredients like oats, bran, molasses, barley and apple

scraps, these mouth-watering treats made in a ood dehydrator will have yourdog begging or more. For an extra decadent treat, add a thin layer o “choco-

late” icing made rom melted carob chips.1 1/2 cups water1/2 cup oil3 tablespoons natural peanut butter (no sugar added)2 teaspoons vanilla2 cups whole-wheat our1/2 cup cornmeal1/2 cup oats

1/4 cup honey crunch wheat germIn a large bowl, combine our, cornmeal, oats and wheat germ. Stir in

oil, peanut butter, vanilla and water. Knead till smooth, adding more our orwater as needed. Roll out dough to about 1/4-inch thick. Shape into bars, or cutwith cookie cutters in the shape o bones or gingerbread men.

Place cutouts on dehydrator tray and place in dehydrator at the highest set-ting (145-155 F) or 6-8 hours. Add time i needed, as treats should be very dry.

(Recipe rom Excalibur Dehydrators)©2012 CrEaTOrS.COM




KITCHEN GIFTSSharon naylor

Give a man a sh and he eats or one day. Give a oodie a shspatula and he makes many delectable seaood meals or his amilyand riends.

I you have people on your git-giving list who love to cook andexperiment with new recipes and exotic cuisines or always servingup amazing dishes at meals and get-togethers, you can't go wrongby choosing kitchen-oriented gits or these so-called foodies thisholiday season. They love everything culinary since these gits workwith their passion or cooking, and even the most inexpensive,unique kitchen gadget or spice mix thrills them.

You can buy or the experienced che or or those just starting out,such as newlyweds, engaged couples and those who have discovereda love o cooking later in lie. "My mother started taking cookingclasses at her retirement home, and she ell in love with organic andAsian cooking," says Dena Guerrard, a mother o two. "Now, shewants cooking tools, sauces, cookbooks and other items or her newinterest, which makes it ar more exciting to shop or her gits."

Here are the top types o gits to consider or all the oodies onyour holiday shopping list:

Flavored Balsamic VinegarsThese subtly- or powerully-inused vinegars open up whole new

worlds o favor proles in salads, seaoods, poultry and red meats.At the Cape May Olive Oil Co., some o the top creatively designedbalsamic vinegars include:• Pomegranate balsamic. This balsamic vinegar has the tartness of

the pomegranate right in it making it slightly sweet, slightly tart!Enjoy it on salads, in desserts and in sauces and marinades.

• Mandarin orange balsamic. Bold orange aroma and avor. Perfector vinaigrettes, salads and sauces or Asian dishes. Use with porkor chicken dishes.

• Cranberry balsamic. This is a wonderful avor to add to meats,such as pork or turkey. Works great on a salad with nuts, or try iton vanilla ice cream.

Flavored Extra-Virgin Olive OilFlavored olive oils add gourmet fair to the oodie's treasured

recipes and allow them to ollow celebrity che recipes to the letter.You'll nd such favors as jalapeno, lemon, rosemary, garlic and evenbacon-favored olive oil. Look especially or black trufe garlic oliveoil, which the experts at Cape May Olive Oil Co. describe as "an

elegant oil to use as a nal touch to your dish. Drizzle over pasta,vegetables or scallops, and it makes or a wonderul risotto."

SpicesQuality essential spices are an essential in a oodie's kitchen, and

you'll wow them with your git o exotic spice blends, like Marrakesh,a Moroccan blend used or lamb, sh, meatballs, couscous, soups and

roasted vegetables; and Cataluna, a blend o pimento and smokedcinnamon, or stews, soups, bean dishes and pork.

Flavored SugarsThe Cape May Olive Oil Co.'s website shows o more than a

dozen inspiring uses or favored sugars, including Ginger FlavoredPure Cane Sugar• Sweet: Top lemon sorbet or pumpkin pie.• Fresh: Use Ginger sugar in stir-fry to add a sweet zing.• Savory: Perfect on grilled salmon.

• Liquid: Ginger sugar will be your new favorite when added to asteaming cup o tea.• Twist: Caramelize ginger sugar on top of creme brulee.

Kitchen ToolsBrowse the kitchen gadgets at such popular stores as Sur La

Table, Williams-Sonoma and other upscale entertaining and foodiedelight sites and you'll see che-worthy kitchen gadgets that turn

KITCHEN GIFTSGifts for the foodies in your life

Creators.Com photo Courtesy of sur La tabLe

New and improved zesters are a top kitchen gift for foodies.




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CookbooksThere are so many gorgeous cookbooks on the market today,

rom elite ches’ French cuisine to colorul cookbooks on Paninisandwiches, healthy appetizers, Tuscan oods, and o course thenewest cookbooks rom the Food Network celebrity ches. RachaelRay’s new cookbook on burgers pleases male and emale gitrecipients, and Melissa D’Arabian’s “Ten Dollar Dinners Cookbook”adds budget-riendly recipes to the oodie amily’s collection. I youknow your oodie owns many cookbooks, give him the git o choicewith a git card to Amazon, BN.com or the FoodNetwork.com storeso he can buy the new cookbooks he desires.

On a budget o $20 or less, give subscriptions to oodie magazinesor gits that arrive resh each week or month or packs o prettyrecipe cards so that they can share their recipes with others the old-ashioned way. Gadgets also range under $20, so you can thrill yourgit recipient without spending a ortune. And every time he usesyour git, every winning dish he creates, he’ll be grateul to you.

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As you prepare to celebrate the holidays,welcoming loved ones into your home is ahighlight o the estivities. You may eagerly lookorward to gathering with amily and riends, butis your house holiday and houseguest ready?

Preparing your home or holiday guestsdoesn’t have to be time consuming or costly.By ocusing on areas that receive the mostguest trac, you can create a resh, welcomingenvironment within budget. The homeimprovement experts at recommend updating vekey spaces:

1.Entryways

Start by making a great rst impression

and setting the mood by enhancing the entrywayand improving curb appeal. By adding a newdoormat and painting the ront door an inviting,rich jewel tone, you’ll be sure to make a statementyear-round about the personalities inside yourhome.

Next, step inside and consider lightingupgrades. The oyer is the perect spot to add adramatic pendant light or chandelier to welcomeguests with a warm glow. Add some estiveholiday decor by layering a centerpiece o

paperwhites - a ragrant, ast-growing seasonalfower – paired with pinecones on a oyer table tocreate a look that combines two popular seasonalstandbys. Roomier entryways can benet roma decorative urn lled with a variety o greens.Heap allen + roth ornaments on top to create a“holiday topiary.”

2.Kitchens

The kitchen is the hub o the home,especially during the holidays. Giving this room

a reresh can be quick and easy, regardless o budget.

Painting is one o the simplest, most cost-eective ways to completely change the look o a space. Experiment with rich, ood- and spice-inspired hues that will provide an appealing

backdrop orholiday decor andremain relevantwhen the seasonschange.

It’s easier than

ever to changethe look o countertops andcabinets. Whileyou’re swappingout knobs anddrawer pulls,consider giving tired laminate countertops a coato paint. Add a new backsplash in ceramic tile ornatural stone, or go quick and easy with peel-and-stick metal tile that evokes the look o classic tin.

3.Guest powder room

Ater the kitchen, the guest bath orpowder room will likely see the most holidaytrac. These rooms - usually smaller than masterbaths - will benet rom a simple de-cluttering.Quick updates like adding new cabinet hardwareand coordinating accessories like soap dishes,lotion dispensers, toothbrush holders, showercurtains and towels are easy ways to reresh these

small but important areas.The holidays are also a great time to updateitems you can enjoy or the rest o the year, suchas lighting and aucets, new mirrors, paint orwallpaper.

4. Guest bedroom

Ater days lled with estivities, yourguests will appreciate a comortable place torest. Get guest bedrooms ready or visitors byclearing out closet space, adding reshly laundered

blankets and providing plenty o pillows. Keepin mind the importance o a variety o lightingoptions in this room. A bedside table lamp maybe great or night-time reading but overheadlighting will be helpul when dressing, applyingmakeup or wrapping last-minute gits.

Simple decor projects likenew area rugs and windowtreatments can have a big

impact on the room. I the guestroom is small,adding some decorative mirrors can help the areaeel more expansive. Updating the old ceilingan can dramatically alter the look o any space,plus aid in airfow. Finally, polish o the holidaylook with in-season fowers or plants; they’rewelcoming and warm and make a great git tosend guests home with once their visits end.

5.Living room

Guests will also congregate in theliving room. Fortunately, some simple cosmeticchanges go a long way toward making this roomwarm, comortable and inviting. Changing

accent pillows, throws and window treatmentsto seasonal patterns and colors are a great way tostart.

A decorated mantel is also a classic holidaydecor touch. For a ast and easy estive look,place loose evergreen branches along the manteland intersperse with brightly colored Christmasornaments. Don’t overlook the Christmas tree.Positioning a tree in ront o a window allowsyour holiday spirit to shine through to theoutdoors. Just remember to keep trees away rom

the replace and other heat sources.With some creativity and planning, you canget your home ready to welcome holiday guests -

just in the nick o time.

BPT

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When it comes to decorating with lights orthe holidays, there are unlimited ways to add

twinkle to the inside as well as the outside o yourhome. Some people avor an elegant, restrainedsprinkling o lights around a door, while othersgo or a more exuberant display o illuminationon virtually every surace.

The American Lighting Association (ALA)oers some holiday lighting tips and ideas:

Make your home’s entrance a priority. Theront door is more than just the entryway intoyour home; it’s also a welcoming frst impressionor amily and riends. Start by adding a ew,easy-to-install landscape uplights to highlighttrees and shrubs, or path lighting to illuminate asidewalk or driveway.

“Tree lighting uses the heights o trees tospread the light out in a sot and subtle way tobathe the area in light,” says Richard Lentz,owner o Dallas-based Lentz Landscape Lightingand its interiors division Lentz Services. Do-it-yoursel tip: Go or low-voltage landscape lights,which are easy to install and consume less energy.

Add drama with color-changing lights. Newer LED lights can add custom color scenesthat complement a specifc holiday decoratingmood. You can produce the exact ambianceyou like at any moment during your party orgathering this season. Colors can be changed at

the push o a button without changing the fxture,making these products useul year round.

Use lighting to create a focal point. Lightscan draw attention to virtually anything - acenterpiece, buet, unusual decoration - whichhelps guests know where to ocus their eyes.

Add portable spotlights as highlights. Thesesmall, inexpensive fxtures typically work with atabletop dimmer and can create pretty silhouettes,particularly under a Christmas tree, shining upthrough the branches.

Illuminate corners. When decorating withlights or the holidays, make your space eel

larger by placing spotlights in room corners toilluminate dark spaces.

Swap out lighting accents. Replacinga neutral lampshade with one that is red orgold will soten the light and create a prettyatmosphere when decorating with lights or theholidays. Replace a chandelier’s crystal teardropswith gold, silver or red glass balls, or add a ewshade charms, available at many crat stores, to

add some sparkle and un.“One o the great things about this time o year, when there are a lot o estive gatherings,is that it’s all right to break away rom a ewtraditions and try some new things with lightingand decorating,” says Bruce Hathaway, national

sales manager or the Vermont-based lightingmanuacturer Hubbardton Forge.

Check your dimmers. “Dimmers are idealor creating that perect look, regardless o theseason, because they allow or the general lightingto play a supporting role,” says Joe Rey-Barreau,education consultant or ALA and an associateproessor at the University o Kentucky’s Schoolo Interior Design.-

Update your powder room. “It’s oten thesmallest room, yet i you measure the worth o the powder room by the amount o trafc a room

gets per square oot, the powder room couldeasily be the most valuable space in your house,”says Rick Wiedemer, president o HinkleyLighting. A ew simple, extra touches, such as aportable lamp with a colored shade, will make ahuge impact.

Try novelty lights. Consider themed noveltylights or a bit o un when decorating or anyholiday. “Try string lights in shapes or LEDcrystal lights on a estive mantle,” says EdwardCook, president o National Specialty Lighting inColorado.

Discover more ideas or decorating withlights or the holidays by visiting www.AmericanLightingAssoc.com.

BPT

light up your holiday home




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Host a holiday party that’s simple and estive witha combination o pre-made and homemade delightsrom the celebration experts at Wilton.

For starters, a cookie pan does double duty orholiday-shaped homemade Crispy Cheese Crackers.Serve these aromatic rosemary treats, made intoChristmas trees, snowmen and stockings, alongsidea colorul assortment o resh vegetables and made-rom-scratch re-roasted jalapeño dip.

“Guests will think you spent hours baking in thekitchen when you wow them with a seasonal selectiono hand-decorated gingerbreads,” says Nancy Siler,vice president o consumer aairs at Wilton.

Easy to assemble with all the trimmings included,there’s a ready-to-decorate gingerbread kit to tany yuletide gathering. Complete with pre-bakedgingerbread, each kit contains decorating accessorieslike candies and icings to personalize your own minivillage, Christmas tree, gingerpop cookies and more.

For another un twist on a traditional gingerbreadhouse, Siler recommends getting the kids involved.They’ll love the marshmallow-y Holiday HouseTreat made o cinnamon toasted oats cereal. Once thehouse is built, watch the kids decorate their yummycreation with a variety o gumdrops, licorice, icings

and candies.To cater to a more sophisticated palate, Siler suggests

Salted Caramel Bacon Cordial Cups. A lavish blendo vanilla pudding, crisp-cooked bacon and whippedcream is favored with caramel ice cream topping andpiped into edible, dark cocoa Candy Melt cordial cups.They’re bite-sized holiday bliss.

Don’t orget eggnog. This year, give your avoriteprepared eggnog a chocolate kick and serve EggnogHot Chocolate garnished with peppermint CandyCurls.

For more holiday recipe project and decorating

ideas, visit www.wilton.com.Family Features

Holiday House Treat Makes about 12 servings

• 6 cups cinnamon-avored toasted oats cereal• 4 tablespoons (1/2 stick) butter• 1 bag (10 ounces) mini marshmallows• 1-1/2 teaspoons ground ginger• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon• Assorted Tube Icing, Decorating Gel, Sprinkles,Colored Sugars, Icing Decorations and other

avorite candyPrepare pan with vegetable pan spray.Place cereal in large bowl. In large saucepan, melt

butter; add marshmallows, ginger and cinnamon.Cook and stir constantly until melted. Pour overcereal and mix well. Spread cereal mixture intoprepared pan. When cool to touch, remove rompan; secure to oil-wrapped cake board with icing.Decorate as desired with icing, sprinkles, sugars,icing decorations and candy.

Crispy Cheese Crackers

Makes 16 to 20 crackers• 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened• 3/4 cup (about 2 ounces) nely grated Asiagocheese• 1 ounce (about 1/4 cup) toasted pine nuts, nelychopped• 1-1/2 teaspoons minced fresh rosemary• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder• 1/2 teaspoon salt• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper• 1-1/2 cups all-purpose our

Preheat oven to 350°F. Prepare pan with

vegetable pan spray.In medium bowl, beat butter, cheese, pine nuts,rosemary, garlic powder, salt and pepper withelectric mixer until creamy and well combined. Addfour; beat until mixture looks sandy and holdstogether when squeezed in your hand. Press intoprepared pan, lling cavities 1/2 full.

Bake 13 to 15 minutes or until edges are lightgolden brown. Cool in pan 5 minutes. Removerom pan and cool completely.

Eggnog Hot Chocolate Makes about 4 servings

• 2 cups milk• 2 cups prepared eggnog• 1 cup Dark Cocoa Candy Melts Candy• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract• Whipped cream

• Candy CurlsIn large saucepan, cook milk and eggnog on

medium heat until the mixture is hot; turn o heat.Whisk in Candy Melts candy and vanilla extract.Continue whisking until candy is melted andmixture is smooth.

Pour into mugs; garnish with Candy Curls.

Fire Roasted

Jalapeño Onion Dip Makes about 1-3/4 cups dip• 4 jalapeño peppers• 1 pkg (5.7 ounces) onion soup mix• 1 cup sour cream• 1/2 cup mayonnaise

Preheat broiler.Place peppers on non-stick cookie pan; broil,

turning at least once, 6 to 7 minutes or untilblackened. Let stand 10 minutes. Remove stem andseeds; coarsely chop.

In large bowl, stir together onion soup mix, sourcream and mayonnaise. Fold in peppers. Refrigerateat least 2 hours.

Serve with cucumber and zucchini slices, celery,carrot sticks, sliced bell peppers and other avoritevegetables.

Note: For spicier dip, include seeds from peppers.

Salted CaramelBacon Cordial Cups

Makes about 24 flled cordial cups• 1-1/2 cups Dark Cocoa Candy Melts Candy• 3 containers (3.2 ounces each) vanilla preparedpudding• 1/2 cup nely chopped crisp-cooked bacon• 1 tablespoon caramel ice cream topping plusadditional or drizzling• 1/2 cup heavy whipping cream, whippedSea salt

Fill cordial cup candy mold 1/3 full with meltedcandy. Using a decorator brush, paint the candyup the sides o each mold to the top edge. Coatmold so that no light can be seen through the shell.Refrigerate until rm, about 5 minutes. Repeat if needed. Careully remove shells rom mold.

In medium bowl, combine pudding, bacon and 1tablespoon ice cream topping; mix until thoroughlycombined. Fold in whipped cream. Refrigerate atleast 1 hour.

Using tip #33, pipe lling into candy cordialcups. Drizzle with additional ice cream topping andsprinkle with sea salt.




You want to bring out the best or your next holidaygathering, ensuring a memorable meal or amily and riends.With a ew simple tips and easier-than-you-think recipes,you can do just that.

Entertaining Tips•

Prep the Night Before — Save time by choppingvegetables or prepping glazes the day beore. For example,prepare the spread or Goat Cheese Bruschetta with Berry-Thyme Spread the night beore. The day o the party, toastbaguette slices 10 minutes beore guests arrive, and thedelicious appetizer will come together in minutes.• Allow for Creativity— Allow guests to put their own

nishing touches on their dishes by setting out a variety o toppings. Raspberry Almond Wafes provide a base oryour riends and amily to get creative.•Make It a Group Effort — Ask guests to bring their

avorite holiday side dishes or desserts to complement the

main course to encourage a wide variety. I you’re makingRed Tart Cherry Glazed Ham as the centerpiece o the meal,let guests know so they can plan accordingly.

Each o these suggestions incorporates a delicious recipeusing Smucker’s® Orchard’s Finest® Preserves, a gourmet

line o preserves made with the best ruit rom the bestplaces. The preserves contain only our ingredients, and addrich favor to both sweet and savory holiday dishes. Fromclassic Pacic Mountain Strawberry Preserves to the newLakeside Raspberry Cranberry Preserves, there’s a favorthat’s sure to be a hit with each guest. These holiday recipesare wonderul options to share with amily and riends atyour next gathering because, during the holidays, only thenest will do.

For more recipes to round out your holiday menu, visitwww.smuckers.com.

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presents

Santa’s2012 Christmas Hours

2012 BIG RAPIDS DOWNTOWN BUSINESS ASSOCIATION MEMBERS

SCHEDULE OF EVENTS

DO N ’ T M ISS T H E

GO U R M E T CA N D L E L I G H T

S HO P P I N G E V E N I N G :

T hu r sday , Decem be r 1 3 • 5-8 P M

SAT., DEC. 8 • 12-3 PMSanta & Mrs. Clausat Big Rapids Furniture

THURS., DEC. 13 • 5-8 PMSanta & Mrs. ClausDowntown GourmetCandlelight Shopping

SAT., DEC. 15 • 12-3 PMSanta & Mrs. Clausat Heartwoods Furniture/Living Water Bookstore

SAT., DEC. 22 • 12-3 PMSanta & Mrs. Clausat Heartwoods Furniture/Living Water Bookstore

For more information contact the Big Rapids Downtown Business Association. Call: 231-287-4670 OR Email: [email protected]

• Applied Imaging• Artworks• Bernie’s Doughnuts• Big Rapids Antique Shop• Big Rapids Dental Health Care• Big Rapids Foot & Ankle• Big Rapids Furniture• Big Rapids Housing• Big Rapids Insurance• Big Rapids Trophy & T’s• Blue Cow Cafe• City of Big Rapids• Chemical Bank

• Cranker’s Brewery & Coney Island• Different By Design• Earth, Wind & Fire Salon• Fabulous Finds Resale Shoppe

• Family Chiropractic• Fairman’s Apparel• Ferris State University• Herb Shoppe• JCPenneys• Jordan Balkema Elder Law• Kilwins Old Pioneer Store Emporium• Lake & Lodge Realty LLC• Lake-Osceola State Bank• Living Water Bookstore/

Heartwoods Furniture• Martz & Shapley Pharmacy• Mary’s All About Health Food Store

• Mecosta County Area CVB• Mecosta County Development Corp.• Miedema’s Bookkeeping & Tax Service• Mohnke Funeral Home

• Nisbett-Fairman Residents• Occupational Research & Assessment• Optometric Associates• Patterson’s Flowers• Physicians Health Services• Pioneer Group• Preferred Office Machines• Rogers Jewelers• Schuberg Agency• Schuberg’s Bar • Snyder’s BBQ & Market• Star Shooters Bar • Sunny 97.3

• The Sole• Wrights Management LLC• Yeoman Photography

Big Rapids

Red Tart Cherry Glazed Ham Makes: 16 servings

Prep: 10 min • Cook: 50 min• (1) 4 to 5-pound fully cookedboneless ham, sliced 1/4 inch thick• (1) 12-ounce jar Smucker’s Orchard’sFinest Michigan Red Tart Cherry

Preserves• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar• 1/8 teaspoon ground cinnamon• 1/8 teaspoon ground nutmeg• Dash ground cloves, if desired• 2 tablespoons raisins, if desired1. HEAT oven to 325°F. Overlap slicesof ham in shallow baking pan; coverwith aluminum foil. Bake 50 to 60minutes, or until internal temperaturereaches 140°F.2. COMBINE preserves, vinegar,

cinnamon, nutmeg and cloves in a smallmicrowave safe bowl. Microwave onhigh for 2 minutes.3. ARRANGE ham slices on servingplatter. Spoon 1/4 cup glaze over centerof ham. Serve with remaining warmglaze.

Raspberry Almond WafflesMakes: 10 (6-inch) wafesPrep: 10 min • Cook: 5 min

WAFFLES• (1) 14-ounce can Eagle Brand®Sweetened Condensed Milk, divided• 3 large eggs• 2 cups Pillsbury BEST® All PurposeFlour• 3/4 cup water

• 1/2 cup Crisco Pure Vegetable Oil• 4 teaspoons baking powder• 1/2 teaspoon salt• 1/2 teaspoon almond extract• 1/2 cup sliced almonds, chopped• Crisco Original No-Stick CookingSprayTOPPING• 1 cup heavy cream• 1/8 teaspoon almond extract• 2/3 cup Smucker’s Orchard’s FinestLakeside Raspberry CranberryPreserves or 2/3 cup Smucker’sRed Raspberry Preserves• 2/3 cup sliced almonds, toasted*• 30 fresh red raspberriesFor Wafes:1. COAT wafe iron with no-stickcooking spray. Heat wafe ironaccording to manufacturer’s directions.Reserve 2 tablespoons sweetenedcondensed milk for topping.2. WHISK eggs in large bowl untiluffy. Blend in remaining sweetened

condensed milk, our, water, oil,baking powder, salt and almond extract just until batter is smooth. Stir inchopped almonds.3. POUR a scant 2/3 cup of batter ontocenter of hot wafe iron and close lid.Bake about 3 to 4 minutes or until

steaming stops. Use a fork to removewafe. Repeat with remaining batter.For Topping:1. BEAT cream in medium bowlwith electric mixer on high speeduntil stiff peaks form. Add reserved 2tablespoons sweetened condensed milkand almond extract. Beat until smooth.2. SPREAD each wafe with 1tablespoon preserves. Top withwhipped cream, toasted almonds andfresh raspberries.*To toast almonds: Place almondsin dry nonstick skillet. Cook overmedium heat, shaking pan until nutsare lightly browned. Remove from panimmediately to avoid over-browning.

Goat Cheese Bruschettawith Berry-Thyme Spread

Makes: 12 slicesPrep: 15 min • Cook: 6 min

• 1/4 cup Smucker’s Orchard’s FinestNorthwest Triple Berry Preserves

• 1 tablespoon minced shallot• 1 teaspoon balsamic vinegar• 1 teaspoon minced fresh thyme, plusadditional for garnish• 1/4 teaspoon salt• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper• 1 8-ounce baguette

• 1 tablespoon Crisco® 100% ExtraVirgin Olive Oil• 4 ounces goat cheese• Fresh thyme leaves (optional), forgarnish1. COMBINE preserves, shallots,balsamic vinegar, thyme, salt andpepper in small bowl.2. SLICE baguette into 1/2-inch slices.Brush both sides of each slice lightlywith olive oil. Heat skillet or griddleover medium-high heat. Grill baguetteslices, 4 at a time, 2 to 3 minutes perside or until lightly browned. Place onserving platter.3. SPREAD about 2 teaspoons goatcheese over each baguette slice. Topeach slice with 1 teaspoon preservesmixture. Garnish with additional freshthyme, if desired. Serve immediately.Tip: Triple Berry-Thyme Spread can beprepared up to two days ahead. Coverand chill.




This year, pop up some holiday un bymaking these clever — and delicious

— popcorn treats. With these recipesit’s easy to create edible décor, gits orriends and neighbors, and munchablesnacks or the whole amily. You cannd more creative holiday recipes atwww.popcorn.org.

PoPcorn TrioYield: Varies

Plain PoPcorn

Cover bottom o 3 to 4-quart pan withthin layer o vegetable oil.Place 3 kernels o popcorn in pan;cover with a loose lid that allows steamto escape, and heat.When kernels pop, pour in enoughpopcorn to cover bottom o pan, onekernel deep; cover pan and shake toevenly spread oil.Shake as popcorn continues to pop.When popping begins to slow to aew seconds apart, remove pan rom

stovetop. The heated oil will still popremaining kernels.Sprinkle lightly with popcorn salt,i desired, and store in an airtightcontainer.

cheesy PoPcorn6 cups popped popcorn1 tablespoon melted butter, optional1 tablespoon nutritional yeast orbrewer’s yeast (ound at health oodstores)

1/2 teaspoon curry powder, optional

Follow instructions or making PlainPopcorn.When you remove popcorn rom heat,transer popcorn to serving bowl. Pour

butter over popcorn and toss. Sprinkleyeast and curry powder, i desired, over

popcorn and toss to distribute evenly.Serve immediately or store in an airtightcontainer.

caramel PoPcorn6 cups popped popcorn1/2 cup sugar1 tablespoon light or dark corn syrup1 tablespoon water2 tablespoons butter1/8 teaspoon salt1/8 teaspoon vanilla extract

Line large baking sheet with lightlybuttered oil.

In medium saucepan, combine sugar,corn syrup and water and bring to aboil.

Cook syrup over medium heat,without stirring, until amber in color;about 6 minutes. Remove rom heatand stir in butter, salt and vanilla untilblended.

Stir in popcorn until coated. Spread

caramel corn in a single layer ontobuttered oil.

Allow to cool beore breaking intopieces. Store in an airtight containeruntil serving time.

holiday snowmanYield: 10 balls, 5 snowmen (2 balls each)1 1-pound package large marshmallows1/4 cup (1/2 stick) butter or margarine

1 teaspoon vanilla extract10 cups popped popcornDecorations: sprinkles, licorice, gumdrops, cinnamon candies, cookies, etc.

Melt marshmallows and butter in a

large saucepan. Remove rom heat andstir in vanilla.

Let stand or 5 minutes.Pour over popcorn and stir.Butter hands well and orm popcorn

into balls.Decorate as desired.

FesTive TreesYield: 10 trees10 cups air-popped popcorn1 10-ounce bag miniature

marshmallows2 tablespoons butter1teaspoon vanilla extractDecorating sugar (green, blue)*1 tube o white rosting (withdecorating tip)Assorted small colorul candies, such assprinkles and miniature silver dragées

Place popcorn in large bowl.Place marshmallows and butter in

medium saucepan over medium-low

heat. Stir until marshmallows aremelted and mixture is smooth. Removerom heat.

Stir in vanilla extract.Pour mixture over popcorn in bowl.

Toss well to coat popcorn evenly.Line baking sheet with oil.Spray hands with nonstick cooking

spray, then scoop up about 1 cup o popcorn mixture.

Shape mixture into a cone shape,keeping the base fat. This orms the

tree.Sprinkle tree with decorating sugar;

place tree on baking sheet. Make therest o the trees.

Pipe rosting on trees to make agarland, then decorate them with

colorul candies.Serving suggestion: Place each tree

on a sugar or gingerbread cookie,and decorate your serving tray withshredded coconut to resemble snow.

Notes: It’s important that this recipestarts with unfavored white popcornor best color and favor.

*Make your own colored sugar byadding ood coloring to sugar, stirringin a bowl or shaking vigorously ina sealed container. Add more oodcoloring or more intense tones.

holiday wreaThYield: 8 5-inch wreaths

3 quarts popped popcorn4 tablespoons (1/2 stick) butter ormargarine3 cups miniature marshmallows3 tablespoons (1/2 o a 3-ounce box)lime gelatin dessert mixDecorations: small red candies, jellybeans, red ruit leather, etc.

Spray large mixing bowl lightly withcooking spray and place popcorninside.In medium saucepan, melt butterover low heat. Stir in marshmallowsand gelatin dessert powder untilmarshmallows are melted and mixtureis smooth. Pour over popcorn and mixwell until coated.Spray hands with cooking spray andpress rmly to orm into 9-inch logs

and then bend to orm wreaths.Place wreaths on wax paper. Presscandy decorations onto wreath todecorate. Add a ribbon cut rom ruitleather. Serve immediately, or wrapindividually in plastic wrap or storage.




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Looking for a special gift for that someone who doesn’t have everything?

Bless them with the gift of health...What better way to honor someone than by giving a git that will touch the lives o

thousands? Every day, Mercy Hospital Cadillac delivers quality health care to all who need

it no matter their fnancial means. Your git will help to ensure people who need Mercy’s help

will receive it, each and every day. I you would like to honor a special someone by giving a

tax-deductible git to the Mercy Hospital Cadillac Foundation, please fll out the orm below

and a holiday card will be sent on your behal to the person o honor.

CONTRIBUTOR:

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Tis the Season 2012