HEALTH/MEDICAL • FITNESS/NUTRITION • HOW TO How to reduce your risk for diabetes NOVEMBER 2013 EDITORIAL PACKAGE Themed Section: GG13BA00 ‘Tis the season for holiday shopping, and this section has all advertisers and readers need to connect and make the most of this festive time of year. From gift ideas to shipping suggestions and much, much more, Holiday Gift Guide is the perfect present for advertisers, editors and readers alike. Begins on 8 Themed Section: Giving Back The season of giving is upon us, and now is the perfect time to make efforts to help the less fortunate. From donation tips to volunteering ideas to suggestions on how to encourage young people to give back to their communities, this section is loaded with opportunities for like-minded advertisers and readers to connect at this very special time of year. GB13BA00 • Think Green — Page 7 Consumers are eager to learn how to make their lives and homes “greener.” Give them timely and valuable info with an environmental focus and related advertisers with “Think Green” features each month. • Bonus Weekly Features — Page 20 Bonus Weekly Features, which include Kids’ Corner, Horoscopes, Crossword Puzzles, and Prime Cuts recipes, offer even more ways to reach newspaper readers and make money through complimentary advertising. Access them, as well as daily sudoku puzzles and weekly word finds, through the Bonus Features menu of the MCC Editorial Library. Check it out today. • Templated Special Sections Save time by getting these and every month’s sections as fully-templated 24-page layouts. See MetroCreativeConnection for details or call Metro Client Services at 1-800-223-1600 for information and pricing. Coming Next Month: Holiday Lifestyle • Money Matters December Timely FeaturesTM All features are copyright-free and accessible online to utilize in print publications or on your Web site: • Online — Access current editorial material from Metro’s home page at www.metrocreativeconnection.com, where there is a link to log in to the Metro Editorial Library. Subscribers can search and download from a complete 13-month archive of features and accompanying photos and related imagery. Cover designs are located in the Spec Ads & Covers Library. • e-Edition — View Metro editorial monthly packages as an online e-Edition by logging into any MetroCreativeConnection Library and clicking the Metro e-Edition link. The entire issue may be downloaded as a PDF file. Metro Editorial Services www.met rocreativeconnection.com Though aging increases a person’s risk for type 2 diabetes, a healthy lifestyle that includes routine exercise and a healthy diet can help men and women reduce that risk significantly. weight, men and women should recognize that making lifestyle changes is a more effective way to shed pounds and keep weight off than fad diets that may promise quick weight loss but tend to be less effective at keeping that weight off over the long haul. Successful weight loss typically involves a combination of physical activity and a healthy diet. Include physical activity as part of your daily routine several days per week, taking it slow at first if you have not exercised regularly in quite some time. As your body begins to adapt to exercise, you can gradually increase the intensity of your workout routines. Adopting a healthy diet is another way to lose weight and maintain that weight loss. A diet low in calories and fat is a good start. Men and women who need to lose a significant amount of weight may want to work with a dietitian and/or nutritionist to create a meal plan that is likely to produce the best results and address any vitamin or nutrient deficiencies they might have. • Focus on fiber. Adding more fiber to your diet is another way to prevent or delay the onset of type 2 diabetes. Foods that are high in fiber tend to make people feel fuller, reducing the likelihood that you will overeat. Fiber also helps the body control its blood sugar levels, and fiber can lower a person’s risk of heart disease. Many foods include fiber, but some high-fiber foods include beans, fruits, nuts, and vegetables. • Avoid refined carbohydrates. Studies have shown that diets rich in refined carbohydrates increase a person’s risk of developing diabetes, while additional studies have shown that diets rich in whole grains protect the body against diabetes. Researchers examining the results of several studies that explored the relationship between whole grains and diabetes found that eating an extra two servings of whole grains each day can reduce a person’s risk of type 2 diabetes by as much as 21 percent. Refined carbohydrates, which can be found in white bread, white rice, mashed potatoes and many cereals, cause sustained spikes in blood sugar and insulin levels, which can increase a person’s risk of diabetes. TF13B716 HOLIDAYS-WINTER • CONSUMER TIPS • GIFTS/COLLECTIBLES Begins on 14 519 Eighth Avenue New York, NY 10018 voice 800.223.1600 • fax 212.967.4602 Millions of people across the globe suffer from diabetes, a term used to describe a group of metabolic diseases in which a person has high blood pressure resulting from the body’s cells not responding properly to insulin and/or inadequate insulin production. According to researchers at Australia’s Baker IDI Heart and Diabetes Institute, if the spread of type 2 diabetes continues at its current rate, there will be roughly 439 million adults with diabetes across the globe in the year 2030. Though some cases of diabetes cannot be prevented, a healthy lifestyle can prevent or delay the onset of type 2 diabetes. Type 2 diabetes is the most common form of diabetes, occurring because the body does not use insulin properly. Initially, the pancreas will make extra insulin to account for the body’s resistance to insulin, but over time the pancreas cannot produce enough insulin to maintain normal blood glucose levels. The risk of developing type 2 diabetes increases as people age, and while there is no way to halt the aging process, there are many other ways for men, women and children to reduce their risks of developing type 2 diabetes. • Shed those extra pounds. Being overweight increases your risk for a host of ailments, including type 2 diabetes, heart disease and stroke. According to the American Diabetes Association, losing as little as 10 to 15 pounds can make a significant difference for people looking to reduce their risks of developing type 2 diabetes. When attempting to lose Make the most of Black Friday shopping Black Friday is one the biggest shopping days of the year, and is often the perfect time to begin holiday shopping and save money on incredible deals. Thousands of eager shoppers will leave their homes in the early morning hours and wait in lines at stores in order to grab the best prices of the season, while retailers will be gearing up to lure the greatest number of shoppers. Surviving the day unscathed and arriving home with discounts galore involves having a game plan for success. • Know the prices of the items you want to buy. Scour advertisements in advance of Black Friday to gauge the regular retail prices for common items, including electronics. Comparison shop for the best prices and make notes to help you when Black Friday arrives. • Understand the fine print of “door busters.” Door buster sales are meant to get shoppers into stores, where retailers hope shoppers will make additional purchases while taking advantage of advertised deals. If door buster items are all you’re looking for, read the advertisements carefully, noting the start and end time of the discounts and if there will be limited quantities. In addition, determine if there is a special return policy for sale items purchased on Black Friday. • Dress for comfort. Wear sensible, comfortable shoes and clothing when shopping. Leave a large purse at home and opt for something compact that can be draped securely over your shoulder and body to navigate the crowds. Keep your coat in the car or make use of a coat check service if available. Dress in layers if you will be waiting outside for stores to open. This way you can shed clothing as the mercury rises or when you get inside. • Arrive together but shop separately. The “divide and conquer” method of shopping allows everyone in your shopping party to score good deals. Split up shopping tasks and then head to different areas of the store. Share and collect your purchases when you meet up after the rush. • Make a list and stick to it. Buyers’ remorse come Saturday morning is common for those who have overextended their budgets and purchased items they did not need. Know ahead of time what you plan to purchase and do not veer off course. • Scout the stores ahead of time. Visit the stores where you plan to shop a few days before Black Friday. Learn the layout of the store and where everything is located. Try on certain clothes or read over the labels of big-ticket items you plan to buy. Knowing where items are located and having all of your information in advance will cut down on the time it takes to find items on Black Friday. COPYRIGHT-FREE EDITORIAL CONTENT • Don’t overlook nontraditional stores. Many other stores, from pharmacies to supermarkets, stock items apart from food and toiletries. Consider taking advantage of their sales for some Black Friday deals. • Park off campus. Mall parking lots can get just as crowded as the stores themselves. Save yourself time and the stress of finding a spot by parking near the store but away from the crowd. • Clean out your car prior to shopping. Make room in the trunk or cargo area for all of your purchases. For those who will be buying large, heavy items, find out if the store will ship the merchandise or will hold it aside until you can take it home. Understand that some stores will not hold items and enlist a friend or spouse to help you pack purchases into the car. • Promptly store receipts. Designate a folder or envelope for all of your receipts to keep them organized and handy. • Pack a small snack and drink. It’s easy to become dehydrated and hungry waiting in long lines, which can compromise your decision-making abilities. Bring a snack so that you can recharge your body and continue shopping. • Leave the kids at home. Black Friday shopping can be stressful, and children can easily get lost or bumped around in the fray. It is safer to leave them home so you can focus your full attention on shopping. • Know when to call it quits. Establish a firm cut-off time for ending your shopping excursion. This way you can head home, rest and sort through your purchases. 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UK Maple leaf symbol designates features applicable for the Canadian market. This symbol designates features applicable for the United Kingdom. 3 NOVEMBER TIMELY FEATURES ’13 TM HOLIDAYS-FALL • FITNESS/NUTRITION • FOOD/BEVERAGE HEALTH/MEDICAL • FOOD/BEVERAGE Choose lighter fare this Thanksgiving Explaining the gluten-free diet Statistics indicate the average Thanksgiving dinner exceeds 3,000 calories. That is more calories than a person should eat in an entire day, much less a single meal. Many people admit to indulging on bigger portions and more fattening foods come the holiday season, but choosing some lighter fare this Thanksgiving can make the meal healthier without sacrificing taste. Although there are staples of Thanksgiving dinner, many lowcalorie foods can be included to make the meal healthier. The following are a few healthy substitutions or alterations holiday hosts can make when preparing their Thanksgiving feasts. • Trim down the turkey. Play up the main course with aromatic seasonings or unexpected flavors. Use garlic, olive oil and basil to add a boost of flavor to turkey without having to rely on butter or salt. Marinate the bird with lemon juice and citrus marmalade for a sweet, yet pungent flavor. Consider omitting the bread stuffing and making a stew of roasted root vegetables instead. • Opt for turkey breast. White meat of a turkey tends to have less fat and calories than the darker cuts. Serve turkey breasts only, which will not only cut down on calories, but also on the amount of time needed to cook the meal. • Make homemade cranberry sauce. Taking the time to make your own cranberry sauce means you can control the ingredients. Cut down on the amount of sugar used in the recipe or substitute it with honey or molasses. • Reduce the number of courses. Thanksgiving dinner often features multiple courses. Extra courses can be expensive, but such massive spreads also lead many people to overeat. Stick to two or three courses, and chances are guests will not miss the extra food. • Choose whole-grain breads. Sliced whole-grain breads or rolls paired with an olive tapenade will be flavorful and such breads are healthier than white bread and butter. • Flavor vegetables with herbs. Vegetables grilled or sauteed with fresh herbs may be so flavorful they will not need added dressings that tend to be rich or cream- Thanksgiving meals can feature lighter fare to discourage guests from overindulging in unhealthy foods. or butter-based. Have a wide variety of vegetable side dishes available so guests can fill up on healthier fare rather than more calorie-dense items. • Serve only low- or no-calorie drinks. Beverages can add a substantial amount of calories to Thanksgiving meals. Give guests the option of sparkling water or even diluted cider so they’re not filling up on sugary sodas or other high-calorie beverages. • Serve fresh fruit for dessert. Create a fresh fruit salad that can be served in lieu of fatty cakes and pastries. • Include other activities. Do not make the meal the centerpiece of the celebration. Plan activities, such as a game of football in the yard or a walk around the neighborhood. This places a smaller emphasis on eating while giving guests the TF13B704 opportunity to burn off some of their meal. HEALTH/MEDICAL • SENIORS • MEN • WOMEN The early warning signs of Alzheimer’s disease Alzheimer’s disease is the most common form of dementia. It is a progressive, degenerative disorder that attacks neurons and essentially robs people of their memory and language skills. Although there is no cure for Alzheimer’s, there are therapies that can slow its neurological impact. Recognizing the early warning signs of Alzheimer’s can encourage people to begin treatments that can stave off some of the more debilitating symptoms of this disease. Though it’s most common among the elderly, Alzheimer’s is not a normal part of aging. The Mayo Clinic says that the reasons behind the inception and progression of Alzheimer’s disease are largely unknown. It is believed damage starts a decade or more before problems become evident. Abnormal deposits of proteins begin to form the amyloid plaques and tau tangles throughout the brain, and these formations are the hallmarks of the disease. Oncehealthy neurons gradually begin to lose their efficiency and ability to function and communicate with one another. As more neurons die, entire areas of the brain shrink. The hippocampus, which is the area of the brain essential in forming memories, may soon become compromised. Millions of people in North America are estimated to have Alzheimer’s disease and many others will be diagnosed. The following are the most common early signs and symptoms of the disease. • Memory loss: According to the Alzheimer’s Organization, early memory loss can include forgetting important dates or repeatedly asking for the same information. Forgetting recently learned information and having to rely increasingly on memory aids is another potential indicator of Alzheimer’s. • Declining cognition: Impaired reasoning or judgment, trouble finding the right words and visual and spatial issues also may be early indicators of Alzheimer’s. • Difficulty completing familiar tasks: Those with Alzheimer’s sometimes have trouble driving to a familiar location or remembering the rules to a favorite game. People who were once good with numbers may now have difficulty balancing their checkbooks, while those who love to cook may have trouble following recipes. • Time confusion: Another indica- www.met rocreativeconnection.com tor of Alzheimer’s disease is losing track of time. One may have trouble understanding something that isn’t happening in the present. Alzheimer’s sufferers often forget where they are and how they got there. • Misplacing items: Everyone loses something at a point in time, but those with Alzheimer’s may put items in unusual places. They may sometimes accuse others of stealing when they cannot retrace their steps and find items. • Decreased judgment: Decisionmaking abilities may be compromised. A person with Alzheimer’s may take unnecessary risks or give away sums of money. • Mood changes: People with Alzheimer’s may suffer from confusion, suspicious feelings, depression and anxiety. A person may upset easily or become anxious outside of his or her comfort zones. Age and family history of Alzheimer’s disease are the biggest risk factors. The liklihood of developing Alzheimer’s doubles about every five years after age 65, says the Alzheimer’s Organization. In addition, those with a parent, child or sibling who have developed Alzheimer’s are more likely to develop the disease than people with no such family history. A physical and neurological exam, which may include blood tests and brain imaging, will be used to diagnose Alzheimer’s disease. Individuals can learn more by making appointments TF13B700 with their doctors. Dietary fads come and go, but the gluten-free movement is one nutritional trend that seems to have staying power. The gluten-free diet was once largely exclusive to sufferers of Celiac disease, a condition that damages the lining of the small intestine, preventing it from absorbing parts of food the body needs to stay healthy. That damage is the byproduct of the body’s reaction to gluten, a term used to describe proteins found in specific grains. But while the gluten-free diet remains a necessity for those who cannot tolerate gluten, nowadays even nonsufferers are embracing the gluten-free diet for a variety of reasons. One such reason is non-Celiac gluten sensitivity, or NCGS. Though NCGS is not as severe as Celiac disease, research has suggested that a glutenfree diet can relieve NCGS symptoms, which include abdominal pain and headaches. Allergies are another reason some people may opt for a gluten-free diet. Unlike Celiac disease or NCGS, both of which are digestive system responses to gluten, wheat allergy is an immune-system response and, like other allergies, can be outgrown. But until a wheat allergy is outgrown, it’s best to avoid foods, including those with gluten, that might trigger an allergic reaction. While a gluten-free diet is a necessity for people with Celiac disease, NCGS or wheat allergies, according to Michell Nacouzi, MD, a primary care physician at Duke Primary Care Brier Creek, it may provide little health benefit to those without such conditions. But that doesn’t mean the popularity of the gluten-free diet is about to wane. Those without a preexisting medical condition who are considering a glutenfree diet anyway should know a few things about this diet before making such a drastic change. • Gluten-free is not easy. Unlike eliminating sugary soft drinks or cutting back on fried foods, going cold turkey on gluten can be very difficult. Many people who adopt a gluten-free diet find it extremely challenging, as gluten proteins can be found in additives, making something as seemingly simple as reading labels a lot trickier than it looks. Though labels may not list gluten among a product’s ingredients, men and women must be aware of all additives that contain gluten proteins in order to avoid gluten entirely. And while supermarkets are stocking more gluten-free products, shopping for groceries while on a gluten-free diet can be tedious. • Certain foods and drinks must be avoided. Though people considering a gluten-free diet are aware that such a diet requires some sacrifices, they may not know which foods and beverages they will need to avoid until they have instituted the diet. For example, a gluten-free diet excludes any beverages that contain barley, meaning beer cannot be part of a gluten-free diet. Though many gluten-free beers are now on the market, beer afficionados may find such alternatives cannot com- Using one toaster to toast glutenfree breads and regular breads can cause cross-contamination, which is detrimental to the health of people on gluten-free diets. pare to the real thing. Rye and wheat products also must be avoided, and these include products whose labels list bulgur, durum flour, farina, graham flour, kamut, semolina, and spelt among their ingredients. Though there are now many gluten-free foods on the market, unless labels say gluten-free, the following are a handful of products that should be avoided: • Breads • Cakes and pies • Cereals • Croutons • French fries • Pastas • Salad dressings • Soy sauce • Soups Many doctors also recommend men and women on a gluten-free diet avoid oats, as they can easily be contaminated with wheat during the growing and processing stages of production. • Be mindful of the dangers of crosscontamination. Cross-contamination can occur during the manufacturing process when gluten-free foods come into contain with foods that contain gluten. Manufacturers typically include the phrase “may contain” on labels as a warning to consumers looking to avoid gluten and other ingredients. When labels include this phrase, there’s a strong chance that crosscontamination has occurred, and such products should be avoided by men and women on gluten-free diets. Cross-contamination also can occur when gluten-free foods are prepared on the same surfaces as foods containing gluten. For example, toasting gluten-free bread in the same toaster as regular bread can easily lead to contamin ation. Preventing cross-contamination can be a difficult task, and that difficulty merits consideration by people who want to adopt a gluten-free diet. • A gluten-free diet may lead to a vitamin and nutrient deficiency. Grains are often rich in vitamins, and avoiding grains as part of a gluten-free diet can deprive men and women of these vitamins, weakening their bodies as a result. When adopting a gluten-free diet, speak with a dietitian to ensure your diet has enough iron, calcium, fiber, thiamin, riboflavin, niacin, and folate. If the diet is lacking, you will need to make adjustments. TF13B718 Look What’s Hot Next Month: Don’t miss Money Matters arriving in the December issue. COPYRIGHT-FREE EDITORIAL CONTENT www.met rocreativeconnection.com 4 NOVEMBER TIMELY FEATURES ’13 HOLIDAYS-FALL • GENERAL INTEREST HOLIDAYS-WINTER • CONSUMER TIPS • GIFTS/COLLECTIBLES Local businesses help make holiday gatherings festive Time is in short supply during the holiday season. Between the shopping, cooking, baking and wrapping, there seems to be precious few hours to tackle anything else. Those who desire an old-fashioned, homemade holiday can still experience all of the seasonal magic by deferring some of the work to local businesses. A field of poppies has come to symbolize the soldiers who lost their lives while fighting in battle. Give pause on Remembrance Day Throughout history, millions of soldiers have marched into wars to protect the freedoms of their countries. Remembrance Day is a solemn time to commemorate those soldiers’ achievements and sacrifices and to pay respects to soldiers who died in battle. In the United States, people honor their present and past military on Veterans’ Day. In British commonwealth countries and territories, including Canada, November 11 is known as Remembrance Day. Since the end of World War I, memorials to remember those of the armed forces who fought in battle and perished in the line of duty have been dedicated on this day. Armistice Day origins Remembrance Day was once known as Armistice Day because it marks the signing of the armistice that put an end to the hostilities of World War I. On the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month of the year, guns fell silent after more than four years of continuous warfare between the Germans and Allied troops. The armistice agreement was signed in a French train carriage at 11 a.m. Later, the carriage where the historic event took place was placed in a specially constructed building to serve as a monument to the defeat of Germany. Although it was moved by German forces and later destroyed during World War II, after that war ended a replacement carriage, correct in every detail, was rededicated on Armistice Day in 1950. Remembrance Day evolution Armistice Day was renamed Remembrance Day after World War II to commemorate soldiers from both world wars. It is now used as a way to pay hommage to any fallen soldier. Each year a national ceremony takes place at the Cenotaph in Whitehall, London, a monument erected as a memorial to soldiers buried elsewhere. The Queen will lay the first wreath at the Cenotaph, while others will leave wreaths and small wooden crosses. In Canada, Remembrance Day is a statutory holiday in many provinces and territories. Official national ceremonies are held at the National War Memorial in Ottawa. Events begin with the tolling of the Carillon in the Peace Tower, during which members of the Canadian Forces participate and congregate at Confederation Square. Similar ceremonies take place in provincial capitals across the country. Very often moments of silence are offered for lost lives. What about the poppies? One of the unifying symbols of Remembrance Day is the poppy that is worn to honor lost soldiers. The bold, red color of the flower has become an enduring symbol of those who died so that others may be free. The poppy became a symbol for a specific reason. Some of the most concentrated and bloody fighting of World War I took place in Flanders, a region in western Belgium. As a result of the fighting, most signs of natural life had been obliterated from the region, leaving behind mud and not much else. The only living thing to survive was the poppy flower, which bloomed with the coming of the warm weather the year after fighting in the region had ceased. Poppies grow in disturbed soil and can lie dormant in the ground without germinating. Without the war, they may have never come to the surface. John McCrae, a doctor serving with the Canadian Armed Forces, was moved by the vision of poppies flowering in Flanders and wrote a poem titled “In Flanders Fields.” After the poem was published, it received international acclaim, and the poppy became a popular symbol of those lost in battle. Men traditionally wear the poppy on the left side of the chest, where a military medal would be placed. Women wear it on the right side because that is where a widow would wear her husband’s medals. Remembrance Day is celebrated every year, providing people humbled by the sacrifices of soldiers an opportunity to remember those soldiers’ efforts TF13B702 to secure freedom. HEALTH/MEDICAL • DID YOU KNOW Did you know? According to the Crohn’s and Colitis Foundation of America, Crohn’s disease is a chronic inflammatory condition of the gastrointestinal tract. Though Crohn’s disease belongs to a group of conditions known as Inflammatory Bowel Diseases, or IBDs, it is not, despite similar symptoms, the same thing as ulcerative colitis. Symptoms of Crohn’s disease can vary depending on the individual, but some of the more common symptoms include persistent diarrhea, rectal bleeding, urgent need to move bowels, abdominal cramps and pain and constipation. While diet and stress can aggravate Crohn’s disease, the causes of the disease remain unknown, though the CCFA notes that recent research suggests hereditary and environmental factors contribute to the development of the disease. TF13B717 www.met rocreativeconnection.com Decorating Much of the splendor of the holiday season comes directly from the intricately decorated houses and storefronts. Twinkling lights and garlands of fresh pine boughs can instantly transform any building. Decorating a home can take an entire day or more, but delegating the work to a decorating service will provide you with professional-looking results as well as free time to tackle other obligations. Decorators can work outdoors stringing lights and creating a winter wonderland in the fraction of the time it takes homeowners to decorate their homes. Baking What would the holiday season be without the sweet treats and inviting smells of freshly baked goods? The cooler weather is an ideal time to turn on the oven and whip up a batch of cookies or cakes with the aroma of pungent cinnamon and nutmeg. Others would prefer desserts that provide homemade flair without the effort. Local bakeries experience an upswing in business this time of year as shoppers flock to choose among the pastries, cookies and pies in display cases. Whether a dessert comes directly from your kitchen or that of a local confectionary shop, chances are guests will enjoy each delectable bite. If you have a custom-order dessert in mind, consult with the bakery well in advance to ensure your dessert will be available when hosting friends and family. Catering Roasts and lavish tables are part of the holiday season, but so are the corporate parties and cocktail events that comprise a social season. Catering a party is an easy way to offer guests delicious food with minimal work. Local caterers can provide everything from sit-down dinners to buffet spreads. Some restaurants that do not normally cater events may offer special packages this time of year. Different customers are vying for the services of caterers within a small window of time. Contract with a preferred caterer early on to guarantee you can benefit from their services. Parties Social calendars fill up come November and December. Local vendors may have unique gifts ideal for holiday giving. When hosting a gathering of coworkers, family or friends, choose local venues for social events so travel to and from the party is easier on guests. Parties can take place anywhere, including movie theaters, bowling alleys, wine stores, and indoor floral nurseries. Gifting Shopping at local vendors often means more personalized service and a less stressful experience. Develop a rapport with a favorite shop owner so that he or she can alert you to private sales or put coveted items on the side. A specialty store may have that unique gift not easily found elsewhere, and shop owners may be able to special-order bulk gifts. Smaller retailers may also offer specialized services, such as gift-wrapping or personal shopping. Shopping locally can help holiday shoppers save time and TF13B714 support their communities. TRAVEL • CONSUMER TIPS • RECREATION/LEISURE Insider tips for winter travel Winter has much to offer the eager traveler, including smaller crowds and entirely new scenery to admire. Cooler weather can make sightseeing more enjoyable, as it is often easier to warm up than cool down. Although the summer season is popular for travel, the winter months also are a busy time to get away, and being prepared can make traveling go that much smoother. The following are some traveling tips for those who can’t wait to get out of the house this winter. • Expect some setbacks. You never know what kind of weather you may encounter during your trip, therefore be ready to make changes at a moment’s notice. Always check flight status or other travel information before leaving home. Weather may delay flights or cause cancellations, so have an alternative plan available if the weather foils the trip. • Avoid nonrefundable tickets. If weather causes a cancellation, nonrefundable or nonexchangeable tickets can cost you money. Try to get the best price possible on tickets while still affording yourself the opportunity to amend travel plans if need be. • Book early. Ski resorts are quite popular in the winter, and reservations tend to fill up fast. If you hope to ski or snowboard, make a reservation as early as possible and then shop around for flights or aternative travel methods. If you prefer smaller crowds, plan a trip to a destination that caters more to warm weather activities. Visiting a seaside town or Smaller crowds and an everchanging landscape can make winter vacations ideal. national park can still be beautiful and fulfilling in the winter. • Get a physical. Visit the doctor and be sure you are up-to-date with all immunizations. Now might be the time to get a flu shot, as traveling in close proximity to others during the wintertime increases your risk of contracting an airborne virus. Getting vaccinated can prevent illness from ruining your trip. • Pack accordingly. With fickle weather you may have to pack a number of different wardrobe COPYRIGHT-FREE EDITORIAL CONTENT options to remain comfortable. Check the weather and the extended forecast for your destination. Include a number of clothing pieces that can be layered so you will remain cozy outdoors. Bring along comfortable walking shoes, but also pack a pair of winter boots in case the weather turns wet or snowy. • Purchase travel insurance. Many people prefer to safeguard their travel investments with the purchase of travel insurance. While there are a number of companies to contact, insurance also may be offered through your credit card company provided you use that card to finance the trip. Should you need to cancel a trip for weather or illness, travel insurance can protect your financial outlay and you may get a refund for the full price of the trip. Vacation insurance plans also may include enhanced emergency medical coverage, trip interruption coverage due to professional obligations or involuntary job loss, or 24hour travel assistance services. • Pack something to protect yourskin. Cold weather doesn’t mean you don’t need to protect your skin from the elements. The cold wind and winter sun are still powerful enough to cause damage. Wear ample sunscreen when traveling outdoors, and use a moisturizer to combat cold, dry air. Although many people flock to warmer climates in the winter, embracing the snow and chilly air and visiting a cool-weather destination can make for an ideal trip. TF13B712 www.met rocreativeconnection.com NOVEMBER TIMELY FEATURES ’13 5 Using probiotics to cure lactose intolerance Lactose intolerance is a result of the body’s inability to digest lactose, a sugar primarily found in milk that is broken down into glucose and galactose by an enzyme called lactase. The body’s inability to absorb lactose is caused by a deficiency of this enzyme. Lactose intolerance can affect some ethnic populations more than others. For example, this condition only affects 5 to 20 percent of Caucasian Americans or Northern Europeans. However, 60 to 80 percent of people of African descent are lactose intolerant, and within Asian populations, lactose intolerance is the rule rather than the exception, with 95 to 100 percent of people of Asian descent affected by this condition. Fortunately, all is not lost for those with lactose intolerance who still want to consume dairy products. According to dietitian and nutritionist Annie Jolicoeur, the quality and quantity of your intestinal bacteria can play an important role in your ability to tolerate dairy products. By taking certain kinds of probiotics and consuming fermented dairy on a regular basis, you can Average amount of lactose in milk and other dairy products Food Butter Fresh cream Ice cream Usual Serving 1 tsp (5 ml) 1 tbs (15 ml) 1 ⁄2 cup (125 ml) Lactose Content (g) Trace 0.4-0.6 g 5g 1 ounce (28 g) 1 ounce (28 g) 1 tbs (15 mL) 1 ⁄2 cup (125 ml) Trace Trace 0.2 g 2.5-4.0 g 1 tbs (15 ml) Trace Milk 1 cup (250 ml) 12 g Yogurt 1 6g Cheeses: Camembert Cheddar Cream cheese Cottage (2% fat) Grated Parmesan ⁄2 cup (125 ml) improve, if not eliminate, many of the symptoms of lactose intolerance that come with eating dairy. “According to several studies, some probiotic strains, such as Streptococcus thermophilus and Lactobacillus bulgaricus, found, for example, in all Probaclac probiotic supplements, are known to help lactose digestion. These probiotics help to improve lactase synthesis in order to allow better lactose absorption,” explains Jolicoeur. Jolicoeur recommends Probaclac as the ideal solution since it provides probiotic complexes that are designed specifically for every age group: children up to the age of 15; adults (can be taken from the age of 15); and older adults (age 50 and up). More information and advice on probiotics is available at probaclac.ca. TF13B733 Probiotics beneficial for both Mother and baby According to recent studies, the use of probiotics by pregnant and nursing mothers can be beneficial for both mothers and their infants. Probiotics are friendly bacteria that help support the natural balance of microorganisms in the body. They inhibit the grown of harmful bacteria, promote good digestion, can bolster the immune system and also help to resist infection. “Probiotics are microorganisms that provide several health benefits, which is why taking them on a regular basis has so many advantages,” explained dietitian and nutritionist Annie Jolicoeur. “They have a beneficial effect on the mother’s intestinal flora as well as on the infant’s developing flora. “A multi-strain probiotic supplement, such as Probaclac, can significantly reduce a woman’s risk of suffering from gestational diabetes,” she added. “Furthermore, it has been proven that probiotics can improve blood sugar levels.” Here is an overview of the results of several studies done to determine the benefits of probiotics. • Pregnant women who take probiotics are less susceptible to preeclampsia, a condition characterized by high blood pressure along with an abnormal amount of protein in the urine. Women who have high blood pressure have a higher risk of miscarriage and preterm delivery of a low birth weight or stillborn baby. • Taking probiotics while pregnant can help fight yeast infections. • Probiotic supplements taken by women who are pregnant or breastfeeding promote the development of the child’s immune system. • Newborns whose mothers take probiotics while breastfeeding may be less susceptible to lactose intolerance. • Probiotic supplements taken by women who are pregnant or breastfeeding can reduce the incidence of infantile atopic dermatitis, or eczema. Furthermore, we know that infantile eczema is often associated with asthma and other types of allergies. • Taking probiotics while breastfeeding also can reduce the risk of diarrhea. • Probiotics also can help reduce the incidence of infant allergies, according to the results of a recent study presented at the February 2013 American Academy of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology annual meeting in San Antonio, Texas. The results showed that children born to mothers who consumed probiotic lactobacilli during pregnancy had a 7 percent reduced risk for eczema at six months of age and a 12 percent reduced risk for hay fever at 18 to 36 months. More information and advice on probiotics is available at probaclac.ca. TF13B734 ‘Tis the season for sharing … germs How to boost your immune system for the holidays The hustle and bustle of holiday celebrations will soon be upon us. The office parties are already in full swing and storefront windows are all decked out in holiday glitz. Your Christmas lights and decorations are up and all that is left to do is entertain family and friends. This time of year can be wonderful, but it also brings a certain amount of stress. The last-minute shopping, family visits, kids running around the house and over-crowded shopping centres is exhausting just to think about. All of that added stress also can affect your immune system. Hugs and handshakes represent golden opportunities for viruses, parasites and bacteria to join in the spirit of Holiday sharing. You wonder how you will ever make it through the season without catching something. And then you may ask yourself: Can probiotics really boost my immune system? The answer is yes. According to dietitian and nutritionist Annie Jolicoeur, many clinical studies have demonstrated the benefits of probiotics in terms of preventing and treating the common cold, the flu and gastroenteritis. “Taking probiotics reduces the severity and duration of symptoms like fever, coughing, runny nose, and even diarrhea,” explains Jolicoeur. “Therefore, it is recommended that all www.met rocreativeconnection.com members of the family take probiotics every day.” Jolicoeur recommends Probaclac as the ideal solution since it provides probiotic complexes that are designed specifically for every age group: children up to the age of 15; adults (can be taken from the age of 15); and older adults (age 50 and up). Maintaining a healthy intestinal flora helps to protect against the penetration of bacteria, parasites, and viruses, Jolicoeur advised. “Did you know that the intestinal mucous membrane acts as the ‘cornerstone’ of your overall health? Twothirds of the immune-defence cells in your body are found there. Therefore, your immune system is enhanced when you take probiotics.” Here’s a tip: Jolicoeur recommends you start taking probiotics at least two weeks before the holiday season begins, so that your body will be well prepared to ward off the oncoming germ attacks. More information on the benefits of probiotics is available at probaclac.ca. TF13B735 How to protect yourself against stomach ulcers Did you know that a bacterium called Helicobacter pylori is the main cause of 60 to 80 percent of gastric ulcers, and of 80 to 85 percent of duodenal ulcers? The duodenum is the upper end of the small intestine. Normally, a layer of mucous protects the stomach and the intestine from the acidity of the gastric juice, a liquid secreted by the stomach glands during digestion. Helicobacter pylori weakens this protective layer by penetrating the mucus lining and creating open sores, or ulcers, in the gastrointestinal tract. In industrialized countries, close to 20 percent of people aged 40 and under are infected with this bacterium, and if affects close to 50 percent of people over the age of 60. Studies show that 20 percent of these people will develop an ulcer during their lifetime. Clinical studies have shown that probiotics can be useful in treating infections caused by Helicobacter pylori. Antibiotics are usually prescribed to eliminate Helicobacter pylori, but unfortunately, the success rate is only 74.8 percent. When a multi-strain pro- biotic supplement, such as Probaclac, is added, the treatment’s efficiency increases to 83.6 percent. The fact that antibiotics cause several side effects is important to mention. These adverse effects, experienced by 38.5 percent of patients treated, include diarrhea, stomach pain, nausea and taste changes. When a multi-strain probiotic supplement is given along with the antibiotics, side effects are reduced and reported by only 24.7 percent of patients. Jolicoeur recommends Probaclac as the ideal solution since it provides probiotic complexes that are designed specifically for every age group: children up to the age of 15; adults (can be taken from the age of 15); and older adults (age 50 and up). “Adding a multi-strain probiotic supplement to the medication given to treat ulcers caused by Helicobacter pylori significantly increases its efficiency and tolerance,” she said. More information and advice on probiotics is available at probaclac.ca. TF13B737 Don’t let “turista” ruin your vacation You’re on a picturesque beach soaking up the sun and enjoying a few cocktails on your sunshine vacation when suddenly you feel a series of all too familiar grumbles in your stomach. The next thing you know you’re on a mad dash to the nearest restroom with none in sight. Welcome to the wonderful world of traveler’s diarrhea, otherwise known as “turista.” Defined as three or more unformed stools passed by a traveler in 24 hours, traveler’s diarrhea is by far the most common health problem affecting travelers. Although it is very rarely lifethreatening, traveler’s diarrhea is extremely unpleasant and can ruin part of your trip. The main cause of this gastrointestinal infection, according to dietician-nutritionist Annie Jolicoeur, is consuming water or food that is contaminated with bacteria. “It is important to understand that the stress of traveling, time changes, fatigue, and the disruption of your normal eating habits can also cause diarrhea,” explains Jolicoeur. Unfortunately, 30 to 50 percent of travelers experience this problem every year. Destinations that feature a warm, humid climate, such as South America, Mexico, the Middle East, Asia, and Africa, represent the worst danger spots. The vast majority of travelers live in fear of contracting traveler’s diarrhea, so here are Jolicoeur’s suggestions for avoiding this extremely unpleasant occurrence. • Start taking probiotics at least a week before you leave for vacation, and continue to take them throughout your trip. By starting before your trip, you are preparing your digestive system to increase its resistance to foreign bacteria. “In addition, there are effective traveler’s probiotic options available, such as COPYRIGHT-FREE EDITORIAL CONTENT Probaclac travelers that contain lactic acid bacteria, such as Saccharomyces boulardii, Lactobacillus rhamnosus, and Bifidobacterium bifidum, which have been proven to reduce the duration or persistence of diarrhea while reinforcing intestinal flora,” Jolicoeur added. • Only drink beverages from sealed bottles. If it is not possible to do this, it is important to boil water before drinking it, or drink hot tea and coffee. Also, don’t forget to boil water to be used for brushing your teeth. • Do not put ice cubes in your drink. • Only eat fruits that have been peeled. • Only eat vegetables that have been cooked and are still hot. Stay away from raw vegetables and salads. • Do not eat raw or undercooked meats, seafood, or fish. • Avoid non-pasteurized dairy products. • Do not buy food or beverages on the street. • Wash your hands thoroughly before eating. Antiseptic gels are possible alternatives. By following these tips you can rest assured that your trip will be free of stomach grumblings and unpleasant experiences. More information and advice on probiotics is available at probaclac.ca. TF13B736 www.met rocreativeconnection.com 6 NOVEMBER TIMELY FEATURES ’13 PETS • CONSUMER TIPS FOOD/BEVERAGE • HEALTH/MEDICAL • FITNESS/NUTRITION Pets for those with allergies Peanut butter can be savory and healthy People with allergies must learn to make certain concessions. This typically includes avoiding those things, including animals, that can trigger an allergic reaction. Individuals who tear up or start to sneeze around animals may wonder if there are any animals that won’t trigger such reactions. Despite information to the contrary, there really are no such things as hypoallergenic dogs and other pets. Certain breeders may advertise hypoallergenic pets, but it is impossible to produce an animal that is safe for all. That’s because many animal allergies result from pet dander, which are the skin flakes from an animal’s fur or hair, and not the fur of the pet. According to the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America, people with pet allergies have supersensitive immune systems that react to harmless proteins in the pet’s dander. Some people are allergic to saliva from dogs and cats, or may have allergies to the sebum, or oils, in their skin. Although there are no guarantees that pets won’t trigger allergic reactions, certain animals could be a bit more friendly to those who are generally intolerant to animals. Dogs • Portuguese water dog: This breed is active and has a coat that requires frequent grooming. The grooming process helps to wash away dander and oils that may contribute to allergies. • Kerry blue terrier: This fun-loving, active dog is thought to be lowallergy because it sheds less dander than some other breeds. It has a soft, wavy coat that fades from black to a blue-gray color as the dog ages. • Standard poodle: This intelligent breed has a long hair growth cycle, which minimizes shedding. The dog lacks an undercoat, which also can alleviate extra shedding of danderladen fur. Furthermore, poodles require professional grooming and frequent maintenance, which can keep allergen levels low. • Bichon frise: Much like the poodle, the Bichon Frise is less likely to trigger allergies because its short, curled coat makes it difficult for dander to escape. • Lhasa apso: This small breed does not shed its coat and requires frequent bathing to remain clean. The combination of these factors can reduce allergen potential. • Poodle mixes: Many breeds are being bred with poodles to create a coat that is more conducive to allergy sufferers. Poodles mixed with cocker spaniels or labradors may shed less fur and dander. Cats • Sphynx cat: This animal is furless and could be better for allergy sufferers because it will not shed allergenladen throughout the house. Still, it’s important to note that many cat allergies are the result of the Fel D 1 glycoprotein, which is present in skin secretions and cat saliva. There’s no certainty that the hairless Sphynx still won’t trigger a reaction. • Devon rex cat: This breed of cat has a short, downy fur coat. Because it has less fur than other felines, the Devon rex cat does not need to lick itself as frequently to groom its fur. This cuts down on saliva-based allergens being deposited onto the cat’s fur. • Balinese: Although this cat has long fur, it may be good for allergy sufferers because it produces less of the Fel D 1 protein than other cats. • Siberian: Perhaps due to lower enzyme levels in their saliva, Siberian cats may produce minimal reactions TF13B696 among allergy suffers. SPORTS • RECREATION/LEISURE A brief history of skiing Millions of people flock to snowcovered mountains each and every year to experience the thrill of skiing. Resort towns cater to men, women and children who enjoy cascading along the fresh powder to test their skills on the slopes. Skiing is no longer relegated only to those resorts that have fresh snow. Resorts with the ability to manufacture snow can now cater to skiers regardless of the weather. Skiing can trace its origins to what is now Norway and Sweden. Cave paintings dating back to 5000 B.C. illustrate a skier with one pole in the Nordland region of Norway, while remnants of a primitive ski were found in Hoting, Sweden. The term “ski” was actually derived from the Norse word “skíò,” meaning “split piece of wood.” It is generally believed skiing evolved from snowshoeing, and the ski poles were developed from the walking sticks snowshoers used for balance. Skiing was initially a method of efficient transportation over the snow. The first skis were likely similar to the cross-country skis used today. Skiing as a sport came much later, and it wasn’t until the mid- to late-nineteenth century that downhill skiing developed. Various engineers created bindings that enabled skiers to ski without the risk of losing their skis. Sondre Norheim of Norway is credited as one of the first developers of a downhill ski that enabled him to win the first Norwegian downhill competition. Mathias Zdarsky and Hannes Schneider were two other innovators that made subtle changes to Norheim’s designs, developing more modern skis and techniques. Skiing became more competitive when the first slalom races took place in 1921 in Switzerland. Skiing was later included as a sport at the 1924 Winter Olympic Games in Chamonix, France, where ski jumping and crosscountry skiing were introduced as events. Jacob Tullin Thams of Norway was the first Olympic ski jumping champion. The silver medal was awarded to Narve Bonna of Norway and the bronze went to Anders Haugen TF13B715 of the United States. www.met rocreativeconnection.com Peanut butter is often associated with school day sandwiches and sweet desserts. But peanut butter is not just for school lunch anymore. Though it’s a high-calorie food, peanut butter boasts many health benefits and can be added to recipes for a nutritional boost. Many of the calories in peanut butter come from fat, but the majority of the fats in peanut butter are monounsaturated and have been shown to improve cholesterol by lowering low-density lipoprotein, often referred to as “bad” cholesterol, in the blood. Furthermore, peanut butter contains polyunsaturated fats that can help raise high-density lipoprotein, or “good” cholesterol. As a result, when eaten in moderation, peanut butter may help reduce risk of cardiovascular disease. Peanuts are high in fiber and are an excellent source of protein. Vegetarians or those who do not include much meat in their diets may find that peanut butter, which includes eight grams of protein in every two-tablespoon serving, is a great way to consume their daily recommended amounts of protein. When preparing foods, choose a peanut butter that is as unprocessed as possible. The fewer the ingredients the better the health benefits. Some brands will include transfats and additional oils that can negate some of the natural health benefits. Read labels and look for a container that lists only ground peanuts and possibly trace amounts of salt for flavoring. The National Peanut Board touts the benefits of peanuts and has a number of different recipes available on their Web site at www.nationalpeanutboard.org. Here is a savory dish that can be served for dinner when the temperatures dip. Baked Pork Chops With a Spicy Peanut Glaze 2 2 2 pork chops, fat trimmed tablespoons cooking oil tablespoons natural creamy peanut butter This baked pork chop get its flavor from a spicy peanut glaze. 2½ ½ 2 ½ tablespoons milk (or non-dairy substitute) tablespoon white vinegar teaspoons chili powder teaspoon salt (1⁄4 teaspoon if your peanut butter is already salted) Preheat oven to 350 F. Line a pan with aluminum foil, place the pork chops on the pan and drizzle with the cooking oil to coat. Make sure that the oil covers the whole pork chop to prevent burning. When the oven is preheated, put in the pork chops and bake them for 30 minutes. While the pork chops are cooking, combine the peanut butter, chili powder, vinegar, milk, and salt in a small dish. Whisk together to emulsify. Remove the pork chops from the oven and evenly distribute the sauce between both chops, brushing on in an even layer. Put the pork chops back in the oven for 10 more minutes to finTF13B708 ish cooking and to allow the sauce to thicken. HEALTH/MEDICAL • GENERAL INTEREST Becoming a bone marrow donor Bone marrow is a bodily tissue instrumental to human health. Bone marrow produces all three types of blood cells, in addition to stem cells and immune-system supporting lymphocytes. Bone marrow transplants are often an option to treat various cancers and immune system disorders. Stem cells can save lives Stem cells are immature cells that lie in waiting in bone marrow. The stem cells wait until weak, unhealthy or damaged cells need to be replaced. Stem cells then become specialized, turning into the cells needed. They can transform into red or white blood cells or even platelets and lymphocytes. For this reason, stem cells have long been studied and used in various therapies. They can be harvested for certain cancer treatments and for ongoing medical research into other potential uses. Stem cells are harvested for bone marrow transplants. Donations of stem cells can be used to treat a number of often incurable diseases that affect the healthy function of bone marrow in patients. The Bone Marrow Foundation says approximately 50,000 blood and marrow transplants are performed worldwide to treat more than 70 types of illnesses, including some that affect children. These diseases include leukemia, lymphoma cancers and Hodgkin’s Disease, among others. In certain instances, a bone marrow transplant may be the only life-saving procedure available. Bone marrow donation Donors are highly coveted, and there are a number of organizations geared to matching donors with recipients. The National Marrow Donor Program, for example, has their Be The Match Registry®. Thousands of patients with blood cancers and other life-threatening diseases are waiting for donations. The donation process typically goes as follows. 1. A potential donor will become part of a registry. Donors between the ages of 18 and 44 provide the greatest chance for transplant success. Patients are most likely to match someone who shares their ancestry. A wide array of ethnic groups are encouraged to become donors. 2. A small sample of blood or a swab of cheek cells will be taken to determine your human leukocyte antigen (HLA) tissue, which will then be entered into a registry. There may be a fee for testing and registering the HLA type. 3. If you are a match, you will be contacted to confirm your willingness to donate. An information session will be conducted, and you will be given additional information about the procedure, its potential risks and the expected recovery process. A physical examination will take place to ensure the donation will be safe for you and the patient. 4. There are two different methods of donation: peripheral blood stem cells, COPYRIGHT-FREE EDITORIAL CONTENT or PBSC, and a marrow donation. The doctor in charge will determine the method that is best for the patient and the one most likely to be successful. PBSC is a nonsurgical procedure during which donors will be given injections of a medication called filgrastim for five days. This is intended to increase the number of blood-forming cells in the bloodstream. A blood donation is then given, wherein these bloodforming cells are separated from the blood. During a marrow donation, you will be treated at a surgical outpatient center or hospital. Under anesthesia, liquid marrow will be drawn from the back of your pelvic bone. 5. PBSC donors may feel muscle or bone aches prior to the collection, which is a side effect of the filgrastim injections. Marrow donors can experience soreness in the lower back for a few days after the procedure. Many donors report feeling completely recovered within two to three weeks after the procedure has been completed. 6. Your donor center will follow up with you until you are able to resume normal activity. The more physically demanding your job, the longer your recovery time is likely to be. A typical recovery time is between one and seven days. Some transplant centers enable communication between the donor and the recipient and may even provide updates on the recipient’s condition. However, others do not allow contact and everything may remain anonymous. To become a donor, contact one of these organizations: DKMS Registry (www.dkmsamericas.org), The National Marrow Donor Program (www.marrow.org), Katelyn Bedard Bone Marrow Association (www.givemarrow.net/CanadaRegistry), The Gift of Life (www.giftoflife.org), or The American Bone Marrow Donor Registry (www.abmdr.org). TF13B709 www.met rocreativeconnection.com NOVEMBER TIMELY FEATURES ’13 How to go green when holiday shopping The color green is synonymous with the holiday season. But as holiday revelers deck their halls with green this season, they also can go green when shopping for loved ones. Many shoppers are concerned by their carbon footprints. In an effort to embrace a more eco-friendly lifestyle, such shoppers may look for ways to continue their holiday traditions, but do so in a way that’s more considerate of the environment. Though the holiday season is often associated with excess, holiday shoppers can still find ecofriendly ways to put smiles on their loved ones’ faces this year. • Purchase energy efficient products. The holiday season is a great time of year to find deals on major appliances, which may be on sale to make room for next year’s models. When shopping for appliances this holiday season, shoppers should look for energy efficient products that consume less energy without sacrificing performance. Since the institution of its ENERGY STAR® program in 1992, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency has helped consumers invest in energy-efficient products that helped reduce air pollution and energy consumption. The program has since expanded into Canada as well. When purchasing appliances this holiday season, shoppers should look for ENERGY STAR qualified products, which can protect the environment and also save consumers money on utility bills. • Plan shopping trips in advance. The holiday season can be hectic, and as a result many holiday shoppers find themselves getting their holiday shopping done as time allows. But break- Shoppers can coordinate their holiday shopping trips, carpooling to the mall in an effort to be more eco-friendly. ing up holiday shopping into several trips can increase fuel consumption and lead to more time spent in traffic, where vehicle emissions can contribute to air pollution. Instead of getting your shopping done on several quick trips, plan a holiday shopping trip in advance, setting aside enough time to get as much shopping done as possible in a single trip. This can cut back on some of the stress of holiday shopping and benefit the environment at the same time. • Set up a holiday shopping carpool. Many people carpool to and from work, and such a system can be employed when holiday shopping as well. Plan a shopping trip to the mall with neighbors or friends to cut back on your fuel consumption and vehicle emissions. Sedan or coupe owners may want to limit their carpools to two people so there’s enough room in the car for gifts on the way home, while minivan or SUV owners should still have ample room for multiple passengers and their presents. Remove unnecessary cargo from the trunk or other storage areas before beginning your trip. • Create your own gifts. Worried about purchasing products with excessive packaging? Then try your hand at creating gifts instead of giving overpackaged store-bought items. Homemade gifts may be more wellreceived than another necktie or pair of slippers, and such gifts don’t have to be packaged at all. • Buy local. When shopping for the holiday, look for locally-produced products, whether it’s arts and crafts produced at a nearby store or organic foods purchased from a local farmer’s market. Locally produced products don’t need to be shipped to make it onto the shelves at local stores, making such products far more eco-friendly than mass-produced products shipped from factories far away. The holidays may not seem like an eco-friendly time of year, but shoppers can take steps to reduce their carbon footprints when shopping this holiday season. GG13B705 Green ways to embrace shorter, colder days The arrival of autumn ushers in cooler days and less hours of sunshine. As much of the country turns its clocks back an hour, night descends that much earlier, prompting a greater reliance on artificial light and electricity. When the time comes to turn clocks back, ecoconscious men and women can employ various strategies to conserve energy. • Change light bulbs. Traditional incandescent bulbs are not the most energy efficient option available. The United States Department of Energy says incandescent bulbs use a lot of energy to produce light, but a significant amount of energy to produce heat as well. Ninety percent of the energy used by incandescent bulbs is given off as heat, so it is more economical and efficient to use a bulb that cuts down on heat production. Compact fluorescent lamps, or CFLs, qualified by ENERGY STAR use about one-fourth the energy and last ten times longer than a comparable incandescent bulb that puts out the same amount of light. Light-emitting diode, or LED, bulbs are a much more energy-efficient option, and LEDs last 25 times longer than incandescent bulbs. • Turn lights off when rooms aren’t being used. It can be tempting to turn on all of the lights on in a home when darkness arrives. But this wastes both energy and money. Turn lights off when you exit rooms. Try to gather the family in a centralized location that is full of ambient and task lighting in an attempt to concentrate lighting usage rather than spreading it out all over the house. • Rely on timers or automated systems. Standard timers or more complex app-synced house management systems Turn lights off in unoccupied rooms to conserve energy. enable homeowners to turn their lights or even appliances on and off at key times. Those with a smartphone or tablet can log in and manage their homes from a remote location, turning lights on or off or adjusting their thermostats at their convenience. • Turn down the temperature. The California Energy Commission says for every degree a person lowers the heat in the 60- to 70-degree range, he or she will save up to 5 percent on heating costs. Set the thermostat low at night when residents are under warm blankets and quilts, and lower the thermostat when the house is empty. Furthermore, homeowners can turn down the thermostat on hot water heaters and even dishwashers, which can help save as much as 11 percent on water heating costs. www.met rocreativeconnection.com • Look to alternative heat and lighting sources. A warm, inviting fire can light up a room and also provide supplementary heat. Pellet stoves, or those that burn a highly concentrated fuel source that is energy efficient and environmentally friendly, may prove a worthwhile investment. Many heating stoves continue to give off ambient heat long after their flames have been extinguished. And centrally located stoves can heat most of a home at a fraction of the cost of traditional forced-air systems. • Put south- and west-facing windows to use. Place solar-powered devices next to an open window during daylight hours to charge when the sun is at its brightest. Use solar-powered lamps, radios and even phone charges once the sun sets. Windows that get a lot of warm sunlight can be draped in dull, black curtains to incubate rooms that need warming. The black fabric will absorb the sun’s heat, naturally heating a room. • Trim shrubs and trees. Make the most of sunlight when it’s available by allowing the sun’s rays to reach the interior of the home. Prune dormant trees and shrubs so that the home will get plenty of sunlight. • Spend time outdoors. Make the most of daylight hours by spending as much time outdoors as possible. Read books outside or do homework at the patio table, reducing reliance on indoor lighting. Sunlight can make ideal task lighting for arts and crafts projects as well. There are many ways to conserve energy and become less reliant on artificial light as daylight hours gradually dwindle. TF13B710 7 Give back with environmental causes Volunteering with an environmental organization is often a great way to help a good cause while protecting the planet and benefitting future generations. Becoming involved with an environmental effort can go beyond cleaning debris from coastal areas or petitioning to save endangered species. There are many aspects of environmental philanthropy just waiting to be explored. Here’s how to get started. Find your niche Consider what interests you most about the environment. This can help you find an organization that shares your goals and interests. For example, people interested in marine life and education may want to work with a marine conservancy agency or with an organization dedicated to reducing chemical-related spills in oceans and other waterways. It’s also important to find an organization that can put your unique skills to use. Explore volunteer opportunities with the same zeal you would apply when looking for a new job, paying particular attention to opportunities that can make especially good use of your talents. Determine your availability As with any volunteer opportunity, the extent of your involvement with an environmental group will likely depend on the amount of time you can commit to the organization. Volunteer opportunities may vary depending on project length and travel constraints. Organizations that take on larger environmental efforts, such as protecting rainforests or endangered species, may require travel and longer time commitments than local organizations. Be honest with yourself as to how much time you can devote to volunteering. Litter removal is one of many causes promoted by environmental nonprofit groups. Raise awareness of a local issue Becoming part of a charitable environmental effort may not require contracting with an established organization. You may want to begin your own grassroots effort close to home. Start by picking an issue that affects your local community, and then work to raise awareness about this issue. Find a mission that is dear to your heart and one that gives you an opportunity to make a noticeable and positive impact on your community. Many large scale charities began with an idea and a small effort, only to grow as awareness is raised and community members are inspired to make a difference. Encourage help from others Sometimes the best charitable efforts are those that encourage others to get involved. Promote an organization or cause, using your voice to spur others to action. Spreading the word about a good cause can have a far-reaching, long-lasting impact. GB13B711 Small ways to make a positive impact on the environment Living an eco-friendly lifestyle is a choice that can pay dividends for years to come. Future generations and the planet those generations inhabit can benefit significantly from the efforts of their ecoconscious ancestors. But while the benefits of living eco-friendly lifestyles are substantial and long-lasting, the effort to initiate such lifestyles need not be so significant. Men and women who want to leave a healthy planet for future generations can do so by making a host of relatively minor adjustments to their daily lives. • Embrace cloth bags. Plastic grocery bags are very convenient, but they are not very eco-friendly. Such bags are often discarded after use, leading to unnecessary waste, and the effort and energy it takes to manufacture and ship such bags is wasteful. Reusable cloth bags are a much more eco-friendly alternative to traditional paper or plastic grocery bags, and these bags can be taken along on trips to the grocery store and on shopping trips to the mall or other retailers. Designate certain bags for the grocery store and others for shopping trips to the mall. This can drastically reduce the energy it takes to produce and ship plastic bags, especially when shoppers consider just how many plastic bags they discard over the course of a typical year. • Use reusable items. Cloth bags are not the only items that can be reused. Items such as paper plates, paper napkins and plastic cups are often taken for COPYRIGHT-FREE EDITORIAL CONTENT granted, but these items can only be used once. Over time, heavy usage of these items can add up to a significant amount of waste for landfills, and the production and transportation of such items is significant and wasteful. Men and women can reduce this impact by only relying on reusable items, such as washable plates, cloth napkins and glass or plastic drinking glasses. It might mean a few extra dishes in the sink each night, but the benefit of these products is well worth the effort. • Stop wasting water. Many people, knowingly or unknowingly, are guilty of wasting water. Homeowners may forget to turn off their automatic sprinklers on rainy days, while many people may keep the faucet running while brushing their teeth. Make an effort to reduce your water usage. Even something as simple as taking shorter showers in the morning can reduce your individual water consumption by thousands of gallons over the course of a typical year. • Pay it forward. Perhaps the best way to make a positive impact on the environment for years to come is to instill a sense of environmental responsibility in your children. Explain to youngsters why you’re bringing cloth bags to the grocery store and why you turn the faucet off when brushing your teeth. Kids who learn to live an eco-friendly lifestyle at a young age will carry that way of life with them as they grow older, benefitting the planet for generations to come. TF13B722 www.met rocreativeconnection.com 8 HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE ’13 Holiday shopping on a budget The economic downturn that began in late 2008 forced many holiday shoppers to curb their spending on gifts for friends and family. But even though the economy has since recovered, savvy holiday shoppers are still taking a conservative approach to their shopping, and saving lots of money along the way. Shoppers often struggle with how much to spend on gifts for their loved ones come the holiday season. The quest for the perfect gift leads many to overspend, but there are ways holiday shoppers can give great gifts without breaking the bank. • Leave credit cards at home. Stretching a budget when holiday shopping can be tempting, especially when shoppers come across “can’t miss” gifts they know their loved ones will treasure. Succumbing to such temptation typically finds holiday shoppers using their credit cards to make purchases they otherwise cannot afford, and that only lands shoppers in post-holiday debt that can be difficult to pay off. Leaving credit cards at home when shopping for the holidays significantly reduces the likelihood that shoppers will overspend, and it guarantees they won’t be mired in debt come January. • Whittle down your shopping list. Many holiday shoppers find themselves in financial hot water come the end of the holiday season thanks in large part to seemingly endless holiday shopping lists. Lists may include coworkers, distant cousins, neighbors, and a host of other acquaintances. Whittling down holiday shopping lists can save shoppers money. Contact loose acquaintances and distant relatives to suggest you stop exchanging gifts come the holidays, saving both parties time and money. • Make a list of gifts. Blindly shopping for holiday gifts can prove disastrous to your finances. Before heading out on a holiday shopping trip, make a list of gifts you intend to buy for each person on your list. This can help you focus your search and reduce the likelihood that you will make potentially costly impulse purchases as you wander around the mall for hours on end. Gift ideas for the athlete in your life The quest for the perfect gift is a familiar journey for many holiday shoppers. As any veteran shopper knows, some people are easy to shop for, while others baffle even the savviest of shoppers. But recognizing loved ones’ passions and finding gifts that suit those interests can make shoppers’ quests for the perfect gifts that much easier. Every person is unique, and the things that drive one person may be foreign to another. But nearly every family or group of friends has an athlete in their midst, and gifting the family athlete can be both fun and easy. The following are a few gift ideas, broken down by sport, for shoppers looking to please their favorite athletes this holiday season. • Avoid last-minute shopping. Last-minute shopping may unearth some great deals, but it’s far more likely to back shoppers into corners as they race against time to complete their holiday shopping. When shopping is put off until the last minute, shoppers don’t have time to comparison shop and find better deals, and that can quickly turn a holiday budget upside down. Begin your holiday shopping as early as possible, and take advantage of holiday sales. • Spread out your shopping. Holiday shoppers with especially long shopping lists can spread out their shopping over several months to reduce the likelihood that they will accumulate credit card debt or run out of cash during the holiday season. Begin shopping in late summer or early fall, periodically buying gifts for loved ones when you have the cash to do so. This has the added benefit of freeing up time during the often hectic holiday season, and it greatly reduces the risk of compiling post-holiday debt. Many people stretch their budgets during the holiday season. But savvy holiday shoppers can employ several strategies to keep themselves out of debt this holiday season. GG13B703 Create a gift wrapping area Nearly as much energy goes into wrapping gifts as purchasing them. Some people excel at wrapping gifts, while others do not enjoy the task at all. Part of the trouble with gift-wrapping is the room and tools needed to wrap all of those holiday treasures. But a gift-wrap station in a corner of the home that is seldom used can make wrapping presents any time of the year easier and more enjoyable. • Find a place to store gift wrap and the tools needed to wrap gifts. Many people find the back of a closet door works perfectly. • Install wire hanger racks so the gift wrap tubes can be stored vertically along the surface of the door. • Install a folding shelf on a hinge, and use that shelf to do your wrapping. Fold the shelf up when it is not needed and secure it with a latch at the top. • Hang hooks to store tape and scissors. Attach the scissors to the hook with a string so they won’t go missing. • A basket tucked nearby can house bows and ribbons so that they are easily stored until needed. Having the wrapping station so accessible also allows you to take inventory of supplies and restock when necessary. GG13B657 www.met rocreativeconnection.com The Weightlifter Weightlifting is now embraced by people of all shapes and sizes. This activity is often recommended as an integral part of a successful exercise regimen, so shoppers can help their favorite fitness fanatics make the most of their weightlifting routines with a few gifts designed to do just that. Weightlifting belts can help prevent injury by supporting lifters’ backs as they workout. For lifters who don’t tip the scales, a dip belt makes an ideal gift. Such belts allow men and women to add weight to their body when performing exercises like dips, pull-ups and chin-ups. That extra weight helps athletes challenge themselves and build strength and muscle. Workout gloves also make great gifts for weightlifters, helping to protect their hands from developing potentially painful and unsightly calluses that often result from weightlifting. A new gym bag is another potential gift for the family weightlifter. Such bags make it more convenient for athletes to carry their accessories, such as belts, gloves, athletic shoes, or even tablets to use while on the treadmill or elliptical machines. The Ballplayer Whether shoppers’ favorite ballplayers are still taking cuts at fastballs or have moved on to slow-pitch softball, these players will appreciate gifts they can put to good use on the diamond. Softball bats can be quite expensive, but the right bat can make a big difference in the batters’ box. Additional equipment shoppers can consider is a new mitt, a sleek pair of sunglasses to make watching for flyballs that much easier or batting gloves to lessen the bit of chilly air many hitters are aware of come early spring when the last of the winter weather just won’t go away. The Martial Artist Mixed martial arts is one of the fastest growing sports in the world. Thanks in large part to its increasingly strong presence on television, mixed martial arts has inspired ath- Many athletes feel yoga is a great way to improve their flexibility and strength. Holiday shoppers looking for the right gift for the athletes on their lists may want to consider giving a new yoga mat or a few sessions at their loved ones’ nearby yoga studio. letes across the globe to embrace various forms of martial arts training, and gift options abound for such athletes. Belts, mats and striking pads can help athletes hone their skills both in the gym and at home, while instructional DVDs can help novice martial arts enthusiasts practice before finding martial arts facilities in their neighborhoods. The Yogi Though its status as a sport is open to debate, yoga can be just as strenuous and physically demanding as more traditional physical activities. Yoga serves many purposes, and more and more athletes have begun to embrace yoga to improve their flexibility, balance and strength. While yoga does not require much in the way of supplies, yoga enthusiasts do need yoga mats and clothing that allows them to perform the various poses a typical yoga session demands. Holiday shoppers may even want to buy the athletes on their lists a few sessions at their nearby yoga studios in an effort to supplement their existing workouts. Many who try yoga often find it has a positive effect on their normal workout routines, so even if your favorite athlete has never tried yoga, he or she might find it’s just the thing to take his or her workout to the next level. GG13B666 The etiquette of exchanging gifts with coworkers Many offices host a gift exchange during the holiday season. Professionalism should always be a top priority when gifting coworkers, and some men and women may want to brush up on gift-giving etiquette before exchanging gifts with fellow employees. Long before any gifts are exchanged, research your firm’s policies on gift-giving. An employee handbook or a visit to the human resources department is a good place to start. When in doubt, inquire among more seasoned workers. Many companies put dollar limits on gift values, while others have strict policies forbidding such exchanges, as it’s easy for gifts to create discomfort around the office or give the impression of favoritism. Gift exchanges also depend on the relationship between employees and their supervisors. Close, friendly relationships may warrant gift exchanges, especially if everyone else is on board with the idea. Gifting a boss is not necessary, but employees who have a close working relationship with their supervisors may want to purchase a professional gift to indicate their appreciation of a supervisor’s support. These can include picture frames, gloves, scarves, books, and per- sonal interest items. Steer clear of personal gifts or ones that can be taken the wrong way. Inappropriate gifts should always be avoided. Decorative gifts that do not focus on any particular religion or holiday, inspirational books, calendars, plants, and publications that cater to a particular interest likely won’t raise anyone’s ire. However, self-help gifts, perfumes, lotions, or overly personal gifts may give recipients the wrong impression. While homemade foods were once popular gifts, many companies now discourage such gifts because they may trigger various food allergies. Gift cards tend to be universally acceptable, but only when they do not exceed the agreed-upon spending limit. Grocery store gift cards can help employees offset some of the costs of entertaining, and gift cards to popular department stores may help offset holiday spending. Whenever any giving between coworkers takes place, care should be given to ensure all the gift values are equivalent. Coworkers who are especially close and want to give a more meaningful gift should exchange those gifts on their own time and not during office hours. Tenure can also dictate gift-giving. Employees who have been with their companies longer than their coworkers may receive a more personalized gift. Employees who receive gifts from their bosses should not feel obligated to reciprocate. Employees should also keep in mind that personal thank-you notes are courteous, professional and appreciated. GG13B665 Visit www.metrocreativeconnection.com today! COPYRIGHT-FREE EDITORIAL CONTENT www.met rocreativeconnection.com 9 HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE ’13 Unique gift ideas for the family globetrotter A passion for traveling leads many people to go abroad and experience other cultures or explore the sites closer to home. Those with an avid traveler in their midst can tie into this love of exploring and give travel-themed gifts. Gifting the family globetrotter is not always easy, however. Travelers tend to bring home mementos of their trips and make it seem as if they already have everything they need. Gifts purchased at the local store may seem to pale in comparison to more exotic trinkets. But gifting travelers doesn’t have to be difficult. The following gifts should make great gifts for your favorite adventurer this holiday season. • Travel journal: Many people love to document their trips, describing journeys to exotic locales or simply a family trip to a nearby campground. Travel journals make great gifts for those travelers who want more than just visual memories of their trip. Be sure to buy a journal that’s sturdy enough to handle all the bumps and bruises that accompany a nomadic lifestyle. Leatherbound or hardcover journals should suffice. • Travel kit: Travelers know the value of a good travel kit, which can help them freshen up during long layovers at the airport or once they arrive at their destinations. In addition, a Holiday shoppers have a number of travel-themed options at their disposal when finding the right gift for that special someone who loves to travel. travel kit allows travelers to pack some of the comforts of home, such as moisturizer, shaving gel or a particular type of toothpaste, that might not be readily available at their destinations. When gifting a travel kit, place some of those favorite products, such as travel-size mouthwash or some luxury moisturizing creams, inside the kit for a special gift-within-the-gift. • Noise-cancelling headphones: A set of noise-cancelling headphones is a gift no globetrotter should go without. These headphones reduce ambient noise and can make it easier to doze off comfortably on a flight or to enjoy a music playlist while sightseeing in a busy city. • Maps: Domestic travelers may be able to rely on their smartphones for directions, but overseas travelers may need to keep their phones off when traveling overseas to avoid heavy surcharges. In such instances, maps make great gifts, especially if you find out in advance where your special traveler will be visiting next and gift a map of that particular locale. • Gas card: For some, the joy of travel stems from getting behind the wheel and hitting the open road. If that’s true of your favorite travel afficionado, consider a gas card that can alleviate some of the cost of his or her next trip. Gift cards to filling stations can be purchased in just about any denomination, and your loved one will appreciate their free pass at the pump on their next road trip. GG13B663 Did you know? According to the American Bankers Association, many merchants view debit card purchases in the same light that they do purchases made with cash or personal checks. That’s an important distinction for holiday shoppers to consider before making purchases, as any items bought on their debit cards may only be worthy of store credit instead of a full refund should such items need to be returned. Shoppers buying gifts for friends and family members should understand that, even if they remember to include gift receipts when wrapping gifts, those items may only be eligible for store credit if purchased with a debit card. When buying items with credit cards, consumers can withhold payment if they are not satisfied with the product. No such option exists when using debit cards. In addition to more restrictive return policies, shoppers who use debit cards may incur debit transaction fees, This means they are charged each time they use their debit cards, or such fees may be triggered when users use their card too often. Debit card users can check the agreement signed when they opened their accounts to determine if they will be subjected to debit transaction fees. Holidays shoppers whose purchases are subject to such fees may want to avoid using their debit cards during the holiday season. GG13B706 Use coupons to save on holiday purchases Coupons have long been helping consumers save a few dollars on everything from supermarket staples to toys and more. Scouring for coupons and using them effectively has evolved into an art form, with some savvy coupon users paying next to nothing for carts full of merchandise. The average shopper may have little experience at finding coupons, but he or she can still save some money. As the holiday season approaches, it’s likely that coupon usage will once again be widespread. Here are some ways to put coupons to good use. • Shop at stores that allow coupon stacking. Many store policies only allow shoppers one coupon per purchase. But a select few allow shoppers to stack coupons to save more money. In such situations, shoppers may be able to combine dollar-value-off coupons with percentage-off coupons. In addition, some stores may not limit the number of coupons shoppers can use on a single transaction. Shopping at these stores with more flexible, consumer-friendly coupon policies can add up to significant savings over the course of the holiday shopping season. • Check the restrictions before heading to the store. When planning to use coupons, shoppers should verify the fine print on the coupon before entering the store. Some coupons restrict which items can be purchased in conjunction with the coupon. For example, some stores may prohibit shoppers from using coupons when purchasing brand name or designer products, while others may limit when the coupon can be used. Blackout dates could apply, so shoppers should visit stores when no such restrictions apply. • Do your research before leaving the house. Just because you don’t have a paper coupon from a mailer or newspaper doesn’t mean such coupons are nonexistent. Search popular coupon Web sites for online coupon codes or printable in-store coupons. Merchandise can even be shipped to the store, which is usually free, to save you even more on shipping costs for items purchased online. • Purchase more to save. It may seem counterintuitive, Gift returns done right Gift returns are inevitable come the holiday season. No matter how much thought shoppers put into gifts for their loved ones, chances are someone is going to return one of those gifts. Clothing may not fit or a gift might be a duplicate, while other gifts simply don’t tickle a recipient’s fancy. But returns should not be taken as a personal slight, and men and women can take steps to make the process of returning gifts a lot easier. Givers There are many ways to facilitate the process of exchanging gifts or making returns, including finding a gift that is less likely to be retuned. In a survey for the popular department store Kohl’s, researchers found that clothing, items for the home and beauty and fragrance items were the gifts most likely to be returned. So shoppers may want to avoid such gifts this holiday season. Another way to make returning or exchanging gifts easier is to make note of the policies governing such returns and exchanges. Such policies are often posted near checkout areas and are outlined on the back of printed receipts. Before embarking on a shopping trip, shoppers can visit a retailer’s Web site and familiarize themselves with its return policies. If rules are unclear, ask an employee. Shoppers also can shop at stores that allow consumers ample time to return or exchanges gifts. This allows your loved ones to return or exchange a gift when it’s most convenient for them. Many retailers have recognized the advantages to having more liberal return policies. A recent survey by ConsumerWorld.org identified which retailers have made changes and which have maintained the same return policies. Amazon, Best Buy, Costco, Kohl’s, Marshalls, and TJ Maxx were found to be the retailers with the most generous regular or holiday return deadlines. Choosing retailers with more lenient return and exchange policies can make things easier on your loved ones. Shoppers also should include a gift receipt with gifts. This shows recipients that you have their needs in mind and want to make the process of exchanging or returning a gift as easy as possible. Without a receipt, recipients may not get the full value of the item at its time of purchase and only get credited with the current price of the item. Prices are often slashed in the days following the holidays. Many stores have become more stringent with their return policies in an attempt to avoid fraud. As a result, receipts are essential because without a receipt stores cannot verify purchases or issue a refund or exchange. Certain stores will allow a certain number of returns without a receipt, but these are carefully recorded and linked to a shopper’s driver’s license number. This makes it easier for retailers to monitor serial returners. Some retailers even refuse returns without receipts. Recipients Try to make returns during less busy times of the day. Long lines at the customer service counter are commonplace in the days after Christmas. Check the receipt for the return deadline, and try to wait at least a week or two after the holiday rush is over, eventually visiting the store in the early morning or late evening when crowds typically have thinned. Returns for online purchases may be challenging. Some retailers allow returns at their brick-and-mortar stores, while others require consumers to mail back the item. Some stores will only offer store credit instead of a cash refund or replacement of funds on a credit card. Online returns may require the help of the person who gave you the gift. GG13B707 Frugal gift wrapping ideas Holiday coupons can be found in the mail, newspaper advertisements and even online. but very often larger purchases qualify shoppers for steep discounts. Consider doing all of your shopping at one retailer and then taking advantage of coupons that deduct a certain percentage of your total purchase. It could be worth it if you spend just a little bit more. • Keep track of your coupons. Coupons are no use to you if you lose them before you begin your holiday shopping. Keep them in a safe location and then remember to bring them with you when shopping for the holidays. Some coupons can be used repeatedly, so do not discard them after use. When used effectively, coupons can save holiday shopGG13B651 pers a substantial amount of money. Visit www.metrocreativeconnection.com today! www.met rocreativeconnection.com Holiday shoppers spend billions of dollars each year on gifts for friends, family and coworkers. But holiday shoppers also spend substantial amounts of money dressing up those gifts with bows and wrapping paper. Shoppers may not want to spend much more on wrapping paper, bags and other ways to dress-up their gifts, and by employing a few tricks of the gift wrapping trade, they may not have to. The following are some frugal, yet flashy, ways to wrap presents this holiday season. • Children’s artwork: Over the course of a school year parents can accumulate dozens of original pieces of art from their children’s time in the classroom. Instead of relegating those pictures to a memory box or temporary glory on the refrigerator, turn them into unique gift wrap. Pair these pieces of art with colored ribbon, and everyone who gets a unique masterpiece will feel special. • Newspaper: Recycle newsprint and comics into wrapping paper. Encourage everyone to wrap in newspaper for a cohesive look come Christmas morning. • Cloth: Leftover cloth from Halloween or cloth purchased to create homemade curtains can be turned into giftwrap for awkward-shaped gifts. Use COPYRIGHT-FREE EDITORIAL CONTENT decorative ribbon to seal the bundle shut. • Brown paper: Brown paper tied with twine or ribbon is inexpensive and can easily be recycled after use. Use a marker to put the names of gift recipients on each package to save on gift tags as well. • Glass jars: Use mason jars when wrapping smaller gifts, including gift cards, to give them an arts-and-crafts feel. • Fabric gift bags: If you’re handy with a needle and thread, sew sacks out of leftover fabric to make gift bags of various sizes. • Cookie tins: Find unique cookie tins from yard sales or leftover tins from holidays past and use them as gift boxes. • Recipes: If you will be giving a cookbook or food-themed gifts, print recipes that can be used as gift wrap and then later used to make certain dishes. • Baby linens: From blankets to wash cloths, use baby linens to wrap infant-themed gifts for new parents. • Baskets: Wicker baskets are available in various shapes and sizes. They can be used to make a gift collection and then reused over and over again. There are many creative and inexpensive ways to wrap gifts this year instead of relying on preprinted and often expensive wrapping paper. GG13B650 www.met rocreativeconnection.com 10 HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE ’13 Is your child ready for a tablet? Great gifts for music fans Music remains an art form that evokes strong emotions and holds a special place in many a listener’s heart. The nearly universal appeal of music makes it a great gift come the holiday season, when shoppers may not always know what to buy a loved one. The following are a few gift ideas that are sure to have your favorite music fan singing your praises this holiday season. • Concert tickets: Perhaps no gift makes music fans’ hearts race more than tickets to see their favorite musicians perform. Your loved one probably has a favorite artist or someone he or she has long desired to see live. Look into that performer’s tour dates to see if they are playing your area anytime soon. If they’re playing just before the holiday season, don’t hesitate to give this gift a little early. The same approach should be taken if an artist will be in town within a day or two of Christmas or Chanukah. Giving the tickets early enables your loved one the chance to clear his or her schedule. • Musical instrument: It’s never too early or too late to learn how to play a new instrument. Shoppers whose loved ones love a good rock-and-roll riff might find guitars make a great holiday gift, while those who can’t stop playing air drums should enjoy finding a real drum set come the holidays. When buying guitars, shoppers should learn which hand their loved ones favor. • Music lessons: Lessons are the next logical step once a music fan has the instruments to work with. But even those without an instrument of their own can benefit from music lessons. For example, music lovers who want to learn piano can make use of lessons even if they don’t have their own pianos at home. Lessons can be a great way for music lovers to gauge their skill levels before buying an expensive instrument. In addition, lessons can turn music lovers on to new instruments or new types of music they may never have considered previously. • Sound system: Advancements in technology have proven to be music to music lovers’ ears. Music fans can now take advantage of crisp sound systems that make music that much more enjoyable. Sound systems come in many shapes and sizes, and they can vary significantly in regard to price. When purchasing a sound system as a holiday gift, look for one that’s compatible with your loved one’s existing components, such as a television or music player. • Streaming service membership: Unlike the days when music fans had to wait for local deejays to play their favorite songs on the radio, today’s music fans can essentially create their own radio stations on their computers and even on their phones. Shoppers can buy their favorite music fans subscriptions to streaming services, such as Pandora or Spotify, and listeners can then tailor their own stations to include their favorite genres, artists or individual songs. GG13B664 `Tis the season for shipping gifts Travel is a staple of the holiday season. Many men and women find themselves spending a significant amount of time in the air or on the road, whether traveling to visit family or embarking on a holiday getaway. For those who must fly to their holiday destinations, travel can present certain obstacles, as baggage restrictions and fees have made it more difficult and more expensive to travel with gifts in tow. But savvy holiday shoppers need not worry about fitting all of those gifts into their overstuffed luggage. Shipping gifts is a far more convenient way to get all those precious presents from point A to point B, and it saves travelers money on airline baggage fees. When shipping gifts this holiday season, consider the following tips. • Use the right box. Boxes come in all shapes and sizes, and there are packing methods to ensure gifts arrive intact. The gift should not have much wiggle room inside the box, as the more the gift can move around the more likely it is to break. Gently shake the box before closing it, adding any padding if the gift is moving around too much, otherwise move the gift to a smaller box. A box also should not be too small, as it may break before reaching its destination. • Wrap each individual item. When shipping holiday gifts, it’s often most convenient to include several items in one large box. When doing so, wrap each item separately in air-filled wrapping or newspaper. This reduces the risk of items breaking during shipping. • Line the interior of the box with a garbage bag. A garbage bag lining along the inside of the box can help to prevent potential water damage from rain, snow or other leaky packages. • Tightly tape the box. Once items are inside the box, be sure to use professional packing tape. Though there are cheaper alternatives available, professional packing tape is far more likely to hold up as the item travels from your home to its ultimate destination. Low quality tape could split or tear, resulting in a situation where boxes break open and items fall out. • Pay attention when reusing boxes. Reusing boxes is a great way to benefit the environment when shipping holiday gifts, but carefully examine the box before shipping it. Old labels and bar codes should be removed so packages ultimately end up in the correct destination. In addition, check any boxes for wear and tear before reusing them. Avoid using any boxes with previous water damage or tears. • Double check addresses. Before shipping items, double check the address, making sure the name, address and ZIP code are correct. Confirm the information with the recipient as well. Be sure to write the address and full ZIP code in the method the shipping company requires to ensure prompt delivery. • Include an extra mailing label inside the box. Inclement weather is common come the holiday season, and some packages may fall victim to the elements. In such situations, shipping labels can be compromised, and some shipping companies have admitted they will open the box to look for a backup label if the exterior label has been soiled. Include an extra mailing label inside the box as a backup plan. GG13B659 www.met rocreativeconnection.com Tablets are poised to grow more popular in the years to come, and many children are anxious to get their very own tablet. But many parents wonder if their kids are ready for a tablet and if such devices would make good gifts for their youngsters this holiday season. According to a 2012 report from Pew Research, 22 percent of American adults now own some type of tablet, while In-Stat research estimates 65 percent of Americans, or more than 200 million people, will have a smartphone and/or tablet by 2015. According to a Fall 2012 report by the Media Technology Monitor, an estimated 26 percent of the Canadian population has a tablet, more than twice the amount of tablet owners just a year earlier. As tablets become the device of choice, many different manufacturers have entered the tablet market, and children have begun to ask for tablets for holiday gifts, leaving parents wondering if their children are responsible enough to own a tablet that may cost several hundreds of dollars. Price-wary parents should realize that tablet prices vary greatly depending on the device. But a growing number of child-friendly tablets have entered the market, and such devices are designed to be more durable for children who have a tendency to drop and destroy things. Those on the fence about whether or not to purchase a tablet for a child can consider these options. • The Samsung Galaxy Tab 3 Kids is a tablet that comes with a selection of educational functions, games and ebooks. The device allows parents to decide which apps can be accessed on the device and restrict use to certain periods of time. The Galaxy Tab 3 Kids boasts a seven-inch screen and will run Android 4.1 or Jelly Bean. The front and rear facing cameras are considerably lower in quality than Samsung’s previous products, down to 3-megapixels and 1.3-megapixels, respectively. • The VTech InnoTab tailors apps to children in a compact device. The screen is just five inches in size, and the tablet comes packed with interactive e-books, learning games and other creative tools. It also has a modest price tag for a child’s first foray into the world of tablets. • The LeapFrog Leappad Ultra is a kid’s learning tablet designed for children between the ages of four and nine. It comes with a seven-inch screen, WiFi with kid-safe Web access and the ability to connect to a library of more than 800 educator-approved apps, books and more. • The nabi is an Android tablet that is geared entirely toward kids. The nabi comes in several different incarnations (nabi Jr., nabi 2 and nabi XD) depending on the age of the child and the desired features. In July of 2013, Fushu, Inc., creator of the nabi tablet, was received the “Best Tablet 2013: For Kids” award from Laptop magazine for its nabi 2 device. • The Amazon Kindle Fire is quickly becoming a go-to option for parents interested in acclimating their children to a tablet. Less than half of the price of its biggest competitor, the Kindle Fire still allows kids to access a bevy of features. Music, movies and Amazon’s ever-growing trove of e-books are just some of the features that make the Kindle Fire a popular choice. • Though small, the iPad mini has all of the features of a larger iPad but in a more kid-friendly size. Many parents prefer the iPad mini for their children because they have Apple products and appreciate being able to share with their kids apps and information among all of the devices. Determining if a child is ready for a tablet is a difficult decision for parents, who must assess how well the child handles responsibility, toys and electronics in the home. Adults may opt for a more durable, less expensive tablet as an introduction to tablets for children and then gravitate toward more “adult” options as their children prove they can be responsible with the device. GG13B655 Great gift ideas for teachers Few opportunities to thank teachers for all of the hard work they do present themselves during the course of a typical school year. But a thoughtful holiday gift is one way that students and parents can show their appreciation for a teacher’s efforts. It’s customary for students to offer teachers small tokens of their affection, whether it’s during the holiday season, at the end of the school year or both. Choosing a gift for a teacher can be challenging, as the relationship between student and teacher and/or parent and teacher is not personal, and it’s very possible students and parents have little knowledge of a teacher’s interests outside the classroom. But the following gift ideas are essentially universal in their appeal, making them great gifts for the special educator in your life. • Handwritten notes from students: Rather than trinkets that proclaim “World’s Best Teacher,” students can write their own sentiments about their teachers and present it with a gift card or another gift that doesn’t take up much space. A heartfelt note of appreciation and gratitude can be all it takes to put a smile on a teacher’s face this holiday season. • Food: Food can be enjoyed in and around the season. Avoid making items yourself, as some people are particular about eating foods that were cooked in someone else’s kitchen. Stick to pre-packaged food baskets, or even treat the teacher to a meal with a gift card to a restaurant. • Something scholarly: A gift that provides a teacher with some intellectual stimulation might just do the trick this holiday season. For example, a set of safety goggles or a kit for doing in-class experiments might work well for a science teacher, while a biography or a best-selling novel may fit the bill for English teachers. • Gift cards: Very often all of the students in a class donate a small amount toward a gift card. Consider a card that is redeemable at a nearby store or a generic cash card the teacher can use anywhere credit and debit cards are accepted. • Classroom supplies: Budget constraints have forced many teachers to supplement classroom materials out of their own pockets. So a gift of school supplies or a gift certificate to an office-supply store or teacher-supply center may be greatly appreciated. • Catered lunch: Consult with the school principal to set aside a day when teachers can enjoy a catered lunch provided by the students. Each class parent can collect funds, which can then be pooled to host a lunch for the teachers. When gifting teachers, there are some gifts to avoid. • Trinkets and mugs: Through the years a seasoned teacher has likely collected a fair share of trinkets and coffee mugs. Chances are he or she does not need another one. • Perfume and lotion: Avoid scented lotions, perfumes and other cosmetic products, as such items are more personal. • Overly expensive gifts: Do not give a gift that is beyond the standard range of others in the classroom, which usually falls between $10 and $20. It could appear as if you’re buying affections for the student, and it could make the teacher uncomfortable. GG13B654 Drop us a line. If there’s any topic we haven’t covered or something you’d like to see more of, send us an email. We’ll do our best to accommodate your needs. [email protected] COPYRIGHT-FREE EDITORIAL CONTENT www.met rocreativeconnection.com HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE ’13 Maximize time spent on holiday shopping The holiday season encompasses several weeks of frenetic activity, as men and women look to juggle abnormally busy social schedules with holiday shopping. While you might not be able to add hours to the day, there are certain measures anyone can take to make the hustle and bustle of the holiday season more efficient. Shopping swallows up a significant amount of time come the holiday season. According to the latest Consumer Reports Holiday Shopping Poll, the average person will spend 15 hours shopping for presents. Women tend to spend twice as long as men in stores and online, with women logging 20 hours of holiday shopping compared to the 10 hours the average male spends shopping for holiday gifts. Making the most of holiday shopping trips can free up moments and reduce overall stress during the holidays. Condense your gift list How much time you spend on holiday shopping depends largely on the number of people on your gift list. Shortening that list can save time and money. This may be the year for adults to collectively decide to forego exchanging gifts in lieu of devoting more funds toward gifts for youngsters. Distant friends may no longer need to feel obligated to buy presents for one another. Opting to do a “Secret Santa” or another grabbag style gift exchange can reduce the number of gifts you need to buy, saving time along the way. Keep a spreadsheet of your shopping list stored on your computer or smartphone so it can be easily modified yearto-year. Create a shopping strategy Millions of shoppers flock to stores on Black Friday to take advantage of doorbuster deals, and some even get all of their holiday shopping finished on this one afternoon. Others prefer to divide and conquer over a few weeks. Decide how you would like to economize your shopping so you won’t be traveling from store to store wasting precious time. Organize your shopping list into certain categories. Then match up those categories according to the stores that cater to these items. For example, if your list mentions bedding for a new college student’s dorm room, curtains for an aunt and a set of beach towels for a friend who will be doing some postholiday travel, group these purchases together and head to a bed-and-bath store. Such a plan in place can greatly cut down on your time spent shopping. Shop off-hours Consumer Reports says shoppers expect to wait in store Finding ways to save time on holiday shopping can make the season more enjoyable and less hectic. check-out lines for an average of 3.5 to 4 hours this holiday season. Avoiding such situations can save you a significant amount of time, so shop during off-peak hours when you won’t be elbow-to-elbow with fellow shoppers. Take advantage of stores’ extended hours and shop later in the evening, when parents and their children will likely be preparing for bed and not waiting in line at the mall. Some retailers entice shoppers with early bird specials and open their doors very early, so shoppers looking to save time can make an effort to be the first person at the door when the store opens. If you must shop during a lunch hour, shop online where crowds are never a concern. Split up the shopping Spouses, family members and even friends can pool their shopping time and help others by tackling some of their purchases. Dividing the work shortens the time spent in stores, and a third party may have a keen eye to a deal or a unique gift when he or she is emotionally removed from the purchase. The average person finds time is of the essence come the holiday season. Prioritizing and economizing shopping is one GG13B658 way to make the season less hectic. 11 Gifts no outdoor enthusiast can resist The great outdoors is even greater when you’re prepared for all of the things Mother Nature can throw your way. Holiday shoppers with a person who enjoys the outdoors on their shopping list can turn this holiday season into a truly joyous occasion with the following gifts tailor-made for tackling the great outdoors. • Folding kayak: Kayaking is a great way to take in the great outdoors, but not everyone has the room at home to store kayaks when they aren’t being used to traverse nearby waterways. Those who live in apartments, condominiums or smaller homes with limited storage may appreciate a folding kayak, which can be stored in a closet or beneath a bed and put together in a matter of minutes. Folding kayaks that can be stored in vehicle trunks and quickly assembled once you arrive at your kayaking destination also can save kayakers money on roof racks for their vehicles. • Waterproof backpack: A good outdoor person knows never to leave home without a waterproof parka, but what about his or her backpack? A waterproof backpack protects valuables, including cell phones, cameras and tools, from the elements. Look for backpacks with waterproof zipper systems to ensure your loved one’s valuables are fully protected on rainy treks through the forest. • Water filter: Drinking straight from natural water sources may seem like a genuinely adventurous thing to do, but it’s genuinely dangerous as well. A hiker’s water filter greatly reduces his or her risk of suffering illness after drinking water tainted with bacteria such as E.coli. Even the most serene streams or isolated rivers can contain harmful bacteria, so a portable water filter is a necessity. • Compass: Many of us have grown to rely on our smartphone apps to get us from point A to point B. While such apps may do the job when we are near cell phone towers, phone signals are often less reliable in more remote locations, such as forests and national parks. A reliable compass is all one may need to make his or her way through the wilderness. • Hot dog roasters: No trip to the great outdoors is complete without roasting some hot dogs over an open flame. But far too many hot dogs have been lost to the fire thanks to traditional campfire forks that don’t provide adequate hold as hot dogs cook over an open flame. Curly hot dog roasters wrap around the hot dogs, snuggly holding them in place as the franks cook. GG13B667 Avoid the hidden costs of online shopping Gifts to rev auto lovers’ engines Online shopping saves shoppers the trouble of waiting in long lines while offering the convenience of around-theclock hours. With a few clicks of the keyboard or scrolls on a tablet, shoppers can typically find just about any product or service they desire. But additional fees and service charges that can quickly accumulate also are a part of online shopping. However, shoppers can mitigate such costs by identifying potential fees and learning how to keep them manageable. Shipping Shipping costs are a burden to online shoppers. Even when prices are low, shipping costs can offset those savings, especially for last-minute shoppers forced to select overnight or two-day shipping. Before completing checkout, check the estimated shipping costs to determine what the final cost will be. Avoid retailers who charge high fees or limit your shipping options. Watch for specials that advertise free shipping, and stick with retailers that offer free or reduced shipping on particular days or times, then do the bulk of your shopping during those discounted periods. Some retailers offer free shipping to a store location. This affords consumers the convenience of shopping online without the added cost of having merchandise delivered to your home. Poor return policy Before buying any items online, familiarize yourself with the return and exchange policies of the retailer. Although many sites post sizing charts and dimensions for furniture and other products, sizing mistakes can be made, and you may be responsible for the shipping costs when returning or exchanging items. Shop with retailers who have lenient return policies, including accepting exchanges or returns at area stores. Otherwise, rely on companies that include return labels and take care of the cost of exchanges. Restocking fees Read the fine print when shopping online. Although rare, some retailers charge a restocking fee for returned items, particularly electronics. This fee may be 5 to 20 percent of the purchase price. Hidden fees can offset the benefits of shopping online. Identity theft The potential for identity theft is another concern when shopping online. Reputable retailers employ security measures to safeguard shoppers’ personal information. Encrypted data, identifiable by a “locked” icon on the checkout page, protects billing information from hackers. Although no system is entirely impenetrable, encrypted sites are generally safe. Never enter personal information unless a site is encrypted. It will cost you time and maybe even money to refute fraudulent purchases, and such issues may negatively affect your credit rating, even when they’re not your fault. International fees Shopping online puts you in touch with global retailers. Purchasing from around the world may be easy, but navigating currency exchanges and other fees can be difficult. International sites may list the prices of items at their currency rate, so what seems like a good deal may be anything but. What’s more, some shoppers may incur duty fees when accepting items from other countries, particularly if the value of the product is high. The Internet may be a good place to buy items at attractive prices from the convenience of home. However, shoppers should be aware of any hidden charges that can offset the GG13B662 benefits of shopping online. For all inquiries please call Metro’s Client Services Department at www.met rocreativeconnection.com 1.800.223.1600 Auto lovers tend to consider their cars their most prized possessions. While it may not be possible to buy the auto lover on your holiday shopping list a new car, there are many gifts that are sure to please those people who can’t get enough time behind the wheel or in the garage. • Global positioning system: Often referred to as a GPS, a global positioning system is a satellite-based navigation system providing location information no matter where drivers find themselves on their next road trips. If a GPS is within range of a GPS satellite, drivers will never again find themselves pulling over on the sides of roadways in an effort to find out just where they are. Though many new vehicles come with GPS, vehicle manufacturers tend to offer them as accessories and not standard features. So if your favorite driver is driving an older vehicle or did not splurge on a GPS when purchasing his latest ride, this gift is sure to please. • Car wash kit: Auto lovers not only love to get behind the wheel, but they also love to get behind the wheel of a good-looking automobile. A car wash kit, complete with a wash and wax that repels water and protects a good polish, is an ideal gift for auto enthusiasts who like their vehicles to look as good as they drive. • Customized floor mats: Many auto enthusiasts consider their cars an extension of themselves, and a customized accessory, like a new set of floor mats, can add a personal touch to drivers’ rides. If your loved one has a special nickname for his or her vehicle, consider inscribing that nickname on a set of customized floor mats. Auto enthusiasts who have an equal passion for a certain sport may appreciate floor mats with the logo of their favorite team. COPYRIGHT-FREE EDITORIAL CONTENT A GPS system might make the ideal gift for auto enthusiasts this holiday season. • Hands-free headset: Car lovers spend lots of time in their cars. Though such time might once have afforded auto enthusiasts an escape from the daily grind, nowadays the prevalence of smartphones has made it easier than ever for the outside world to find its way into vehicles. As a result, auto enthusiasts may appreciate a hands-free headset that allows them to take calls while driving without compromising their concentration on the road. Some hands-free devices even allow drivers to stream music from their smartphones directly to their car stereos, allowing drivers to hit the open road while enjoying their favorite tunes. • Auto show tickets: Many autolovers keep an open eye for their next vehicle purchase. Auto shows are often the best places to learn about new vehicles and what motorists can expect in the future, so why not give your favorite car guy or gal tickets to an upcoming auto show? He or she may find his or her next vehicle or simply enjoy walking around and seeing all the latest automotive industry upgrades and gadgets. GG13B668 www.met rocreativeconnection.com 12 HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE ’13 Are cash gifts tacky or ideal? When faced with a gift list a mile long and no idea what to get certain individuals on that list, many holiday shoppers opt to give cash as a present. Cash gifts are easy, one-size-fits all and no one will request a receipt to return a cash gift. Still, some people are not quite sure if it is socially acceptable to give a gift of cash. There are many pros and cons to giving cash as a gift. Once a person weighs the advantages and the disadvantages to giving cold hard cash as a gift, then he or she can decide if cash is an ideal present or one that’s best avoided. Advantages One of the advantages to giving cash is it eliminates waste. Unlike gifts that will never be used and simply take up space, cash will be used sooner or later. How often have you received a sweater you won’t wear or a trinket you won’t use? Sometimes people return these gifts, but very often they get relegated to a pile of belongings that will end up in the garbage or stashed in the back of a closet. Cash eliminates this waste by giving a person the opportunity to buy exactly what he or she wants. Cash gifts may be ideal for older people to give because they have limited mobility and cannot get out to the store to shop for presents. And grandparents unaware of the latest trends can give cash in a card and instruct grandchildren to purchase something they like. Some people overextend themselves during the holiday season, and a cash gift can soften the blow of holiday spending. Cash is very portable, which can make it easier for those who travel for the holidays to avoid shipping costs or extra baggage fees to take gifts on airlines. People are inundated with a lot of stuff already, and a cash gift might be just what the doctor ordered. Disadvantages Cash gifts may be considered impersonal and lacking in creativity. It does not take much effort to stash a dollar amount inside of an envelope and present it, so gift recipients may question their relationships with gift givers who give cash. For many people, the excitement of the holidays has a lot to do with seeing a giant pile of gifts waiting to be unwrapped. Gifting cash removes that excitement of presents under the tree. Although items can be purchased later on, the immediate gratification of tearing through boxes and bags simply is not there. Some people find it awkward to receive cash because the value of the gift is right there in black and white. It puts both people on the spot and may create some uncomfortable moments if the value of a cash gift does not match up to what the cash recipient spent on the cash giver. When gifting standard gifts, many people are unaware of what the other spent and if the item was purchased on a discount. If you gift with cash, there is no hiding the value. Another disadvantage is if a person gives cash and receives cash in return. Do the two gifts cancel each other out? What if the amounts are different? Dealing in cash alone can be awkward. There are ways to make giving cash a little more acceptable. If you get creative when handing over the money, this may take away from the fact that cash does not make a very dramatic gift. • Try pairing the cash with a wallet or purse to make the presentation a little more interesting. • Send the recipient on a scavenger hunt for the money, writing clues and hiding them around the house. • Create a money tree or wreath that displays the cash in an interesting way. • Fold bills into bows or tape together to make wrapping paper for a small token gift. • For children, roll up bills and put it into a crayon box or pencil case. • Fill up a large box with a lot of filler and hide the cash inside of a smaller box tucked inside. GG13B656 6 steps for holiday shopping safety The holiday season is a joyous and busy time of year. Decking the halls, catching up with old friends and holiday shopping make this time of year especially hectic. Though the season is generally jolly, there are those people who take advantage of the hectic nature of the holiday season, preying on busy holiday shoppers who may be understandably distracted as the season progresses. As a result, shoppers and holiday revelers should heed the following precautions to ensure this holiday season is as safe as it is festive. 1. Exercise caution at ATMs. Thousands of dollars change hands at stores and banks this time of year. Potential thieves know that ATMs make good places to target victims withdrawing funds for purchases. Shoppers should choose ATMs that are well lit and withdraw money only when banks are open. If that’s not possible, avoid using ATMs in remote locations or dark alcoves. Keep your eyes fixed on your surroundings and be aware of the people in your vicinity. Promptly pocket your money and do not openly display your cash. 2. Keep purchases out of view. When shopping, keep your purchases hidden from prospective thieves. Make frequent trips to your car when shopping and store merchandise in the trunk of your car or in a cargo area with a cover drawn. Once items have been brought home, keep them well out of sight, stored in closets or away from windows. 3. Only park in well-lit lots. Finding a parking space at a busy mall can be difficult, but be picky when choosing spots. Try to park in a well-lit area in a busy location and be aware of the surrounding vehicles. If you feel Dos and don’ts of holiday shopping Thanks to sales featuring heavily discounted items, millions of people wait to start their holiday shopping until the season hits full swing. But in spite of such bargains, overextending budgets during the holiday season is too tempting for many shoppers to resist. However, shoppers need not risk financial peril if they shop smartly and heed some dos and don’ts of holiday shopping. • Do set a budget. Establish what you can afford to spend on gifts and other seasonal trimmings early on. The National Retail Federation estimates that the average consumer will spend around $700 come the holiday season. But not every person needs to be a big spender. The “buy now, pay later” mentality that credit cards offer lands many shoppers in trouble, a sticky situation many only notice once the first bill comes due. If you cannot afford to pay your entire credit card balance off once the bill arrives, you face steep interest charges that can quickly add up. Instead, pick a set spending limit and keep to it no matter how tempting it may seem to overspend with a credit card. • Don’t be fooled by false sales. Retailers understand that a good advertised deal lures shoppers into their stores. As a result, some retailers mark up the cost of certain items in order to slash the prices for holiday sales. Even if you are saving the assumed 50 to 60 percent, the final cost of the item still may be higher than normal. Comparison shop and do your research so you don’t fall victim to clever pricing. • Do schedule time for shopping. Hectic schedules sometimes result in last-minute shopping that leads to impulse purchases. Schedule some distraction-free time for your holiday shopping so you’re less likely to rush into purchases before thinking them through. • Don’t double buy. Some shoppers use the holidays as an excuse to buy more for themselves than the people on their lists. While it’s tempting to treat yourself come the holiday season, this is a great and quick way to deplete your budget. If you plan on using holiday deals to supplement your own wardrobe or household needs, reduce your spending the rest of the year and save money for year-end purchases. • Do collect coupons and look for purchasing incentives. Comparison shopping not only helps you get the best price, but also it can shed light on coupons, shipping discounts and other incentives that lower the overall cost of products. Search online for Web sites that publish coupons and codes for online discounts, including free shipping. Join a store’s marketing list and receive emails with deals sent directly to your inbox. • Don’t be afraid to delay some purchases if need be. If hosting a post-holiday gathering where gifts will be exchanged, it’s perfectly acceptable to delay buying those gifts until after Christmas or Chanukah, when many items can be found at even lower prices. Many stores reduce prices on merchandise come December 26, so you can wait until after the holidays to shop for items that will be exchanged with distant friends and relatives. This enables you to save more money and use any received gift cards toward shopping. • Do keep a level head. Some people forget the true meaning of the season is spending time with loved ones. Getting swept away by shopping and worrying about deadlines can make the season less enjoyable. Don’t allow the stress of holiday shopping to compromise an otherwise joyous time of year. GG13B660 Prevent identity theft during the holidays As the holiday shopping season approaches, consumers are once again preparing to do a significant amount of their holiday shopping online, while many others will rely on debit and credit cards to make their in-store purchases. Though banks and online retailers have made holiday shopping easier in many ways, that convenience has also made shoppers more vulnerable to identity theft. The hectic nature of the holidays season can make it harder for holiday shoppers to recognize if their personal information has been compromised. As a result, many men and women do not realize that they have been victimized by identity thieves until after the season has come and gone. According to the Federal Bureau of Investigation, identity theft affects 10 million Americans each year, costing individuals and businesses $52 billion. But Americans aren’t the only ones at risk of identity theft, which can victimize holiday shoppers whether they’re shopping at the nearby mall or from the comforts of home. When shopping this holiday season, shoppers should consider the following safety measures to reduce their risk of identity theft. • Confirm the legitimacy of online retailers. Many online scammers masquerade as legitimate businesses. Some may even steal logos or information from real businesses to make their scam appear more legitimate. When shopping online, stick to well-known retailers or verify with the Better Business Bureau or another watchdog organization that a Web site is operated by a reputable business. • Check for a secured browser. Reputable online retailers encrypt their customers’ personal information. Look for a “locked” icon on the browser before entering payment information, or check to see if the URL has an “https” prefix, which means the site is secured. • Beware of credit card skimmers. Skimmers are devices that read the information on the magnetic strip of a credit or debit card. Some are planted on ATM machines or self-service kiosks at stores. They can be hard to detect. Certain skimmers can even skim the information off a card while it is still in a wallet or purse. Some devices can block the capture of signals from the cards. But even consumers who have such devices should still check their bank and credit card statements to determine if their cards have been skimmed. • Promptly check credit and debit balances for accuracy. Routinely check purchases against the records of credit card companies and banks. Log into online accounts to verify any pur- chases and report any inaccuracies immediately. Recognizing fraudulent activity early on can help consumers recover their money quickly and prevent any further problems. • Opt for credit over debit. Credit cards come with zero liability policies, which means consumers will not be held responsible for fraudulent purchases. Debit cards do not always offer the same level of protection, and debit cards linked directly to a bank account could put consumers at greater risk. • Keep receipts. Being cautious with receipts doesn’t just facilitate potential returns. Receipts often include a lot of personal information, including the shopper’s name, signature and credit card number. These receipts could be the doorway to identity theft. • Password protect everything. A lost smartphone or tablet could provide a thief with a lot of personal information if it is not locked down with a password. Also, always use a secured wireless signal when shopping online or accessing personal account information. • Don’t carry extraneous information in a wallet. A lost wallet is less problematic when it isn’t filled with scores of credit cards and a social security card. Consumers should limit the amount of personal information stored GG13B653 in their wallets. The holiday spending season by the numbers uncomfortable going back to your car, ask a security guard to escort you. 4. Shop in groups. Go to the store with a group of friends. There is safety in numbers and having more eyes to look out is to your advantage. Thieves are less likely to approach a group of people than a solitary person. 5. Carry minimal items. Always keep your hands free to ward off any people in the event of an attack. Bags and packages weighing you down make you an easy target. 6. Leave extra credit cards at home. Carry only what you need on a shopping excursion. Do not carry your entire wallet or extra credit cards. This only puts you at greater risk of identity theft or fraud should you lose your wallet. www.met rocreativeconnection.com GG13B724 The holiday season is significant for a variety of reasons. In addition to its religious significance, the holiday season is when many retailers enjoy their greatest successes. To understand just how much business Christmas and Chanukah can bring in, consider the following figures. 20: The percentage of annual sales jewelry stores indicate are made during the month of December. 150,205: The number of clothing and accessories stores open in the United States as of 2009. 27.2: The amount, in billions of dollars, spent during the December 2010 holiday retail season. 983: The amount, in millions, of Christmas tree ornaments imported from China between January and September 2011. 34.87: The average cost of real Christmas trees as of 2011, Artificial trees sell for an average of $70.55. 4.0: The percentage the National Retail Federation expects retail sales to increase this year. 2012: The year when holiday retail sales were the weakest since 2008. According MasterCard Advisors SpendingPulse, COPYRIGHT-FREE EDITORIAL CONTENT sales in the last two months of 2012 increased by just 0.7 percent from the previous year. Some financial analysts blamed Hurricane Sandy, an epic storm that caused billions of dollars in damage along the eastern coast of the United States, for the small increase in consumer spending. 24: The percentage of U.S. retail sales made by only the Northeast and mid-Atlantic states. 8.4: The percentage growth of online sales from 2011 to 2012. Online sales generally make up about 10 percent of total holiday business. 70: The number, in millions, of poinsettia plants sold in the United States each year. 107,000: The projected cost, adjusted for inflation, of all of the gifts in “The Twelve Days of Christmas.” 74: The percentage of adults who say the female head of the household is most likely to wrap all of the family’s gifts. 3: The number of years a store-bought Christmas fruit cake can be kept fresh if it is refrigerated. GG13B725 www.met rocreativeconnection.com HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE ’13 13 Celebrate the joy of baking with holiday gifts inspired by “The Boss” The holidays are a perfect time to indulge in treats and spread the joy of baking with gifts that encourage friends and family to discover their inner baker. This season, there’s more to choose from in the baking category with the launch of Cake Boss, an extensive line of more than 200 “Buddy approved” baking items designed in collaboration with Buddy Valastro, the star of TLC’s hit reality show, “Cake Boss.” Offered by Meyer Corporation, U.S. in partnership with Discovery Communications, Cake Boss covers all the bases for baking, decorating, serving, and storing cakes and other desserts like a pro. Here’s a “baker’s dozen” list of gift ideas and creative ways to be sweet on anyone who’s been extra good this year. Gifts For the Artistic Baker: For avid bakers who enjoy expressing their creativity through baking, a gift of a Cake Boss Cake Kit ($29.99) includes everything needed to bake like the pros. Ideal for the holiday season, the Cake Boss Winter Cake Kit includes five stainless steel cutters (two holiday bulbs, a small circle, one tree and one reindeer), and five plastic plunge cutters (two holly leaves and three snowflakes) to create fun shapes in rolled fondant. A ribbon cutter helps cut fluted or straight decorative strips in fondant or gum paste, and stainless steel decorating tips in star and round shapes (combined with the kit’s disposable plastic piping bags) make it easy as pie to pipe borders and create icing designs. An instructional booklet is included to guide bakers each step of the way. For Serious Cooks and Bakers: Professional quality bakeware does double duty for baking up delicious, savory recipes, as well as sweets. The Cake Boss Professional 13x18-inch Jelly Roll Pan ($17.99) holds up to the rigors of frequent use with heavy-duty aluminized steel, commercialstyle folded construction, and reinforced wire rims. Ideal for baking flaky pastry appetizers, as well as roasts of all kinds, the Cake Boss Professional Jelly Roll Pan distributes heat fast and evenly, and won’t warp or bend. A unique Cake Boss Winter Cake Kit Cake Boss Professional Jelly Roll Pan Cake Boss Cake Carrier Cake Boss Linzer Cookie Set Cake Boss Holiday Cookie Jar Cake Boss Covered Cookie Pan quilted, light-colored nonstick surface promotes even airflow for pro-style results. Family Friendly Gifts: Buying individual presents for each member of a family with children of different ages can end up being costly and time consuming. A family group gift is a practical solution that also can encourage spending time together. One idea is to put together a “Cookie and a Movie Night” gift package with a few innovative tools for baking cookies, your own favorite cookie recipe, a decadent hot chocolate mix, and a DVD for a classic family-friendly movie. For the cookie baking tools, the Cake Boss Linzer Cutters 6-Piece Set ($16.99) in “Classic” and “Holiday” styles make it fun to customize these scrumptious sandwich cookies. The Cake Boss Beechwood Rolling Pin ($29.99) has just the right weight and size to roll out cookie dough with ease, and a wide assortment of Cake Boss Cookie & Fondant Cutters ($16.99) in fun shapes like Stars, Hearts, Daisies, Round and Square provide multiple ways to make cookies in varying sizes. Cookies To-Go: Cookie exchange parties are a great way to get in the holiday spirit and sample some new recipes. Surprise the host by pairing your cookies with a gift of the Cake Boss Deluxe 10x15-inch Covered Cookie Pan ($16.99). Bake the cookies and transport them right in this innovatively designed pan. Helpful drop zones stamped on the surface ensure uniformly sized cookies. Long-lasting nonstick on both the interior and exterior surfaces prevent cookies from sticking and speeds up cleaning time. Finally, wide handles with red silicone grips in fun rolling pin shapes, and a translucent, tight-locking cover, make this cookie pan perfect for transporting baked treats to and from get-togethers. Teacher Treats: If you have school age children, don’t forget a special treat for their teachers. Sculpted in glossy ceramic to resemble a bowwrapped gift, the colorful pink and brown Cake Boss “Present” Cookie Jar and the seasonally themed red and green Cake Boss “Holiday” Cookie Jar ($39.99 each) are sure to impress, especially when you include home-baked cookies inside. Print your recipe on a pretty card and add to the cookie jar to be sure it never goes empty! Two-for-One Hostess Gifts: Be extra sweet to your holiday party host with a dual gift of both a dessert and the Cake Boss Cake Carrier ($39.99) used to handily transport it. Offered in four retroinspired styles, each durable and easy-to-clean Cake Boss Cake Carrier is spacious enough to hold a standard 9-inch two-layer round cake, cheesecake, pie, or other treat. The lid latches tightly on both sides of the base to protect delicious treats while they’re in transit and keep tempted fingers away! For The “Cake Boss” Wannabe: It’s fast and easy to bake intricate looking cakes like “the Boss” with the Cake Boss 6-Cup Cakelette Pan ($16.99). Available in five different molded designs — Star, Heart, Groovy Girl, Circle and Square — each Cake Boss Cakelette Pan makes six individual portion, tiered mini cakes that look like they came straight out of Carlo’s Bakery. In addition to gifting, you can use the assorted pan designs to host a mini cake-decorating holiday party. Guests can decorate their own “cakelette” with icings, sprinkles, colored sugars, and even fondant. Stocking Stuffers and More Under $15: Affordable prep tools are great additions to a baking enthusiast’s stocking stuffer. They also work well as grab bag gifts and extra special toppers to ribbon wrapped presents. The set of two Cake Boss Nylon Bowl Scrapers ($8.99), crafted in durable nylon edged with flexible silicone, ensure that every last bit of batter, buttercream, and sauce gets scraped out of bowls. The heat-resistant Cake Boss Scraping Spatula with Measurement Marks ($11.99) features a durable red silicone tool head with a convenient reference chart of measure equivalents for cups, ounces, tablespoons, teaspoons and milliliters. For more whimsy in the kitchen, the Cake Boss “My Kitchen My Rules” Spoonula ($9.99) with flexible red silicone head for mixing, stirring, and spooning, includes one of Buddy’s favorite catchphrases imprinted on it. Gifts For The Unexpected: It’s a smart idea to keep a few prewrapped gifts on hand when you need a last minute token for a neighbor, friend or host. For example, pair the Cake Boss 4-Piece Measuring Spoons Set ($6.99) with a boxed gourmet mix for scones, and a small bottle of quality vanilla extract. Wrap everything in cellophane with a colorful bow for the perfect lastminute gift. Learn more about Cake Boss baking products and watch instructional cake decorating videos starring Buddy Valastro at www.cakebossbaking.com; like Cake Boss baking products at www.facebook.com/CakeBossBaking, or follow Cake Boss on Twitter@CakeBossBaking. GG13B732 A look back at popular toys from years past Keeping the magic of Santa alive Many parents have spent time during the holiday season on endless quests for the perfect gift for their children. Many gifts have earned “must-have” status over the years, and although many of these gifts are forgotten by the time the next holiday season comes around, certain products have remained timeless. Some of these more memorable products have even been resurrected into newer, modern-day versions of their previous selves. Here’s a look at some of the toys that have made their mark over the last several decades. • Rubik’s Cube: The Rubik’s Cube reached the height of its popularity during the 1980s, when the colorful game puzzle was mass-marketed to the public. Hungarian sculptor and professor of architecture Erno Rubik actually invented what he dubbed the “Magic Cube” a decade prior. Since the product’s inception, millions of Rubik’s Cubes have been sold across the globe, making it one of the topselling puzzles and toys. • Cabbage Patch Kids: Adults stormed stores in the mid 1980s for Cabbage Patch Kids, which became one of the most popular toys of the decade. Designed by art student Xavier Roberts, Cabbage Patch Kids began as dolls called “Little People.” The dolls were marketed with a fantastical story about a cabbage patch in a magical valley, where dolls were born and awaited their adoption into loving homes. Cabbage Patch Kids have been produced by a number of different toy manufacturers through the years, and shoppers can still find new incarnations at stores today. • Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles started as a comic designed to parody established popular comics of the early 1980s. The concept of genetically mutated turtles who possessed ninja skills quickly caught on and the TMNT franchise expanded to television shows and scores of complementary merchandise. • Beanie Babies: Ty Inc. introduced a series of plush toys filled with tiny plastic pellets instead of traditional polyester stuffing in 1993. These pellets made the dolls flexible and cuddly, which played a role in their popularity. Throughout the 1990s, children collected as many of the Beanie Babies as they could, though some of the dolls were more coveted than others. Ty ceased production of Beanie Babies in 1999 with a bear called “The End,” but it wasn’t long before new Beanie Babies were manufactured for a new generation of children to collect. • Tickle Me Elmo: The hottest toy of the 1996 giving season was Tickle Me Elmo, a plush doll based on the beloved Sesame Street monster. When prompted, Elmo would laugh, giggle and gyrate to the delight of kids and adults alike. Tickle Me Elmo caused mass frenzy at stores during the 1996 holiday season, as shoppers swarmed toy stores to get their hands on the top toy of the year. • Nintendo DS: The Nintendo DS, first offered in 2004, was the first Nintendo console released in North America before it was released in Japan. With its dual screens (the lower being a touchscreen) and portability factor, the handheld device became one of the most popular gifts for young gamers. • Zhu Zhu Pets: Interactive, robotic hamsters, Zhu Zhu Pets first appeared on the scene in 2009. Their name was derived from Mandarin Chinese and translates to “little pig.” These small toys could be set to explore their environment or simply emit cooing sounds in the “nurturing mode.” • Nintendo Wii: In addition to the Sony Playstation and Microsoft’s Xbox 360, the Nintendo Wii became the latest in a history of must-have video game consoles in the early 21st century. Games on the Wii were interactive through the use of motionsensing hand controllers and other gaming interfaces. The later release of the Wii Fit package made the Nintendo Wii even more popular. • Monster High Dolls: With their ghoulish good looks, Monster High action figures were one of the most gifts of 2012. The dolls are based on a series of young adult novels modeled after “Twilight,” though the Monster High dolls are targeted to younger children than items associated with the wildly popular “Twilight” series. It remains to be seen which toy will become this season’s “musthave” item. There’s more online … Visit www.metrocreativeconnection.com for weekly tips and the latest money-making ideas. www.met rocreativeconnection.com GG13B661 He had a broad face and a little round belly that shook when he laughed like a bowl full of jelly. He was chubby and plump, a right jolly old elf. And I laughed when I saw him in spite of myself. - “A Visit From St. Nicholas” Christmas just wouldn’t be the same without Santa Claus. Santa will forever be ingrained in the holiday season, serving as an endearing symbol of the season regardless of your religious affiliation. Parents typically go to great lengths to ensure their children enjoy the holiday season. By keeping the magic of Santa alive, parents can add a special touch to the holiday season for their youngsters. Children may become more skeptical of Santa around the time they turn 10, but there are plenty of ways to encourage this spirit to live on year after year. • Read an uplifting story. The holidays are ripe with stories that tug at the heartstrings. Parents can take their children to the library and rent a Christmas tale or take home a book of holiday stories, reading a different one before bed each night. Encourage children to write their own positive stories of what the holidays mean to them and read them aloud to family and friends. The book “101 Ways to Keep the Spirit of Santa Alive: For “Kids” From 1 to 92” by John Hagerman is a great way to get everyone in the house enthusiastic about Santa. • Keep the magic flowing. Children who believe in Santa for an extra year or two often come from families that keep the magic of Santa alive. In addition to the standard traditions of leaving cookies and milk out for the jolly old man, come up with new ways to evoke the essence of Santa. Spray peppermint air freshener around the tree and other places Santa is sure to visit. Use a large boot to make a footprint in a plush rug. Find a way to trigger noise on the roof to give kids the impression that Mr. Claus himself has arrived. Extra measures to keep Santa alive can help everyone enjoy the holiday that much more. COPYRIGHT-FREE EDITORIAL CONTENT • Take advantage of opportunities to spend time with Santa. Parents and children alike have many opportunities to spend time with Santa during the holiday season, including photo opportunities at the mall and personalized videos sent directly to youngsters’ email accounts. Elf dolls and breakfast with Santa at a nearby restaurant are other opportunities to spread the magic. Make the most of these opportunities over the course of the holiday season. • Spread some Christmas cheer. Santa’s job is to bring presents to the world’s children. Channel the notion that giving is better than receiving and spend time giving back to others as a family. Schedule a day when you can distribute gifts at a senior center or arrange to bring gifts to a foster child. Bake cookies and deliver cellophane-wrapped dishes to all of your neighbors. These activities put the emphasis on giving. Keeping the tradition of Santa Claus alive can help adults and children alike enjoy a more festive holiday season. GG13B669 www.met rocreativeconnection.com 14 GIVING BACK ’13 Precautions seniors can take when solicited for donations Charities often target certain groups of people when soliciting donations. Those groups may include past donors and people who have recently attended charitable fundraisers. Such an approach can be very effective. It should come as no surprise that criminals posing as legitimate organizations tend to target specific groups of people as well. Anyone can be fooled by a fraudulent charity, but such criminals tend to target seniors more than others. According to the Federal Bureau of Investigation, seniors often make attractive targets to con artists because seniors are most likely to have substantial savings, own their homes and/or have excellent credit. In addition, the FBI notes that elderly victims of fraud and other crimes are less likely to report those crimes out of fear that their families may feel they are no longer able to take care of themselves or manage their own finances. These factors make seniors especially attractive and vulnerable to con artists, particularly those who prey on well-intentioned men and women by posing as fake charities. But there are steps seniors can take to protect themselves from fraud. • Be skeptical of solicitors. Many con artists will indicate that persons have given to the charity in the past, hoping that prospective victims simply won’t remember if that claim is valid or not. If a solicitor or appeal letter claims that you donated in the past, don’t simply take it at face value, especially if you don’t recall making such a donation. Get specific information about alleged past donations, checking that information against your own bank records and receipts. Many donors claim donations as deductions on their tax returns, which also can be used to verify or debunk solicitors’ claims. Though not all solicitors claiming a past history of donations are dishonest, this is one way that criminals attempt to create a rapport with potential victims, so such claims should be verified before making any donations. • Don’t feel obligated to reciprocate a gift with a donation. Many charities send gifts, be it mailing labels or holiday cards, to prospective donors as a token of appreciation for past donations and as a way of encouraging future donations. Con artists are fully aware of this tactic and may try to imitate it in an attempt to defraud potential victims. No matter if the people behind those mailing labels or holiday ornaments are legitimate charities or con artists, you should not feel compelled to reciprocate a free gift with a financial donation. • Beware of solicitors pressuring you to donate. Reputable charities should not be on the verge of shut down if you fail to make a donation, so such organizations never pressure Older men and women should be mindful of fraud when solicited for donations over the phone. prospective donors into making donations. If a solicitor is pressuring you into making a donation over the phone or in person, chances are strong that this person is not representing a reputable charity. In such instances, hang up the phone or, if the solicitor is on your property, politely close the door, ask the solicitor to leave your property and contact the local authorities. • Send donations directly to the charity after independently confirming their address. When making charitable donations, those donations should never be given directly to solicitors. Donations should only be made after you have independently confirmed the charity’s address and mailed straight to the organization. Never make a cash donation, as cash provides no paper trail should you want to deduct your donation or should you learn that you were victimized by a con artist posing as a representative of a reputable charity. • Request personal information not be shared. Upon receiving a charitable donation, many charities share their donors’ contact information with other charities. Such actions are legal as long as no sensitive information is shared. But many donors would prefer their contact information not be shared so they don’t find themselves being inundated with solicitations from other charities. Donors can ask to opt out of having their personal information shared upon making a donation. This is especially important for seniors living on fixed incomes who simply cannot afford to support many causes no matter how compelling those causes are. GB13B682 Did you know? The Catholic Church is sometimes referred to as the largest charitable group in the world. Although specific data confirming this status is difficult to come by, the Church certainly does its share of philanthropic work. Data from the Center for Applied Research as well as the National Catholic Educational Association indicates that the nonprofit healthcare system sponsored by the Catholic Church includes 637 hospitals. The Church also operates 122 home healthcare agencies and nearly 700 additional service providers, including assisted living, adult day care and senior housing facilities. Catholic Charities USA consists of 1,400 agencies that operate soup kitchens, temporary shelters, child care cenGB13B723 ters, and refugee resettlement facilities. www.met rocreativeconnection.com 9 ways to raise funds more effectively Fundraising is how many nonprofit organizations manage to stay afloat. There are scores of fundraising opportunities for clubs, organizations and companies of all sizes. Carefully chosen and planned fundraisers can help nonprofit organizations solicit more donations and ensure their mission statements become a reality. The following are nine ways nonprofit organizations can focus their fundraising efforts in an effort to better connect with potential donors. 1. Define the needs of the organization. Before you can effectively raise funds, you should establish the end goal of the fundraising effort. Figure out the group’s budget and expenses and how much money you hope to raise to keep your organization afloat. 2. Create a message. Once you have defined your needs, articulate your goals into language that can be shared with others. Include why donors should donate, such as how this fundraising campaign will help the community or a specific person. Tapping into a people’s emotional connection to a charity or event may lead them to be more responsive to your fundraising solicitation. 3. Create long-standing relationships. One of the most important things fundraisers can do is build deeper relationships between prospective givers and the organization that is doing the fundraising. Stronger relationships may bring in repeated financial donations and even some people willing to lend their voices or talents to the organization’s efforts. Solid relationships also serve as a building block for other contacts and word-of-mouth donations. 4. Build your prospect list. The closer an organization is to its donors the more likely those donors will give when asked. Start your prospect list with those people you know the best, including family and friends. Move outward to colleagues and acquaintances. Don’t be shy about contacting people on social media. 5. Gather information. Find out about various fundraising opportunities. You do not need to reinvent the wheel. Many companies specialize in fundraising, including retailers that have fundraising arms of their companies. You could sell merchandise and receive a portion of the profits for your organization. Certain fundraising methods are more familiar to the community than others, such as coupon books or cookie sales. Familiarity may lead to bigger donations. 6. Avoid hosting too many fundraisers. It may seem counterintuitive, but fundraising less may bring in bigger A fundraising committee can establish goals, budgets and messaging for your fundraising efforts. donations over the long haul. Public enthusiasm can wane when organizations are constantly fundraising. One or two big fundraisers may have more impact than several different events throughout the year. 7. Have receipts or acknowledgement letters at the ready. Individuals will need a confirmation of the donation so they can deduct such contributions from their taxes. Acknowledgement letters serve this purpose, and the IRS even requires organizations provide such letters to donors who give gifts of $250 or more. 8. Advertise. Without knowledge of a fundraiser, no one can get on board with your efforts. Advertise as much as possible and solicit volunteers to spread the word. Also, advertise well in advance so people can look forward to the fundraiser and budget ahead of time. 9. Consult with experienced fundraising committees. If a particular group had a stellar fundraising campaign, talk with organizers about what they did. Learning from others’ past successes and failures can guide your future fundraising GB13B671 efforts. How to find the right volunteering opportunity Millions of people volunteer every year. Some parents may volunteer to coach their children’s athletic teams, while other volunteers work with nonprofit organizations in need of assistance to help turn their mission statements into reality. Though many people may spend a lifetime volunteering with the same organization, many others find their initial foray into volunteering does not meet their expectations, and such volunteers might walk away in search of another organization or opportunity. Because the turnover rate of volunteers can be so significant, many charities, in particular those that work with children, ask volunteers to make a minimum commitment before coming on board. But the reason many volunteers walk away from a volunteering opportunity has little to do with time and more to do with finding a volunteering opportunity that’s right for them. The right opportunity differs for everyone, and men and women who want to give back to their communities can ask themselves a series of questions in an effort to find a volunteering opportunity that best suits them. What causes am I passionate about? A cause you are passionate about is often a great place to start when you search for a volunteering opportunity. For example, people with a love of animals may find that working with a nearby animal shelter, whether it’s working at the shelter or fostering animals in need of temporary homes, is a great way to give back. Sports fans and athletes whose playing days are largely behind them may want to volunteer with their local youth leagues or coach at a nearby school. When you are passionate about a cause, you will likely be passionate about volunteering to advance that cause. What do I want to do? What you want to do while volunteering is another factor to consider. Men and women who work in an office all week may want to get outdoors on the weekends, so volunteering opportunities with the local park system might be an ideal fit. It’s also important to determine what you don’t want to do. Some people are uncomfortable asking others for money, so such men and women should avoid volunteering positions that focus on fundraising. If a volunteering opportunity involves activities you don’t enjoy, you’re less likely to stick with it. COPYRIGHT-FREE EDITORIAL CONTENT Volunteering to coach a youth sports team is one way athletes and sports fans can combine their passion for sports with their desire to give back to their communities. How much time do I have to volunteer? It’s not a crime to have a hectic schedule. Prospective volunteers whose time is already stretched thin may want to avoid ongoing volunteer opportunities that require significant time commitments. Such people might be more suited to one-time projects or those opportunities that allow volunteers to decide at the last minute if they will attend. Honestly assess your schedule to determine how much time you have to devote to volunteering before choosing an activity. Where do I want to volunteer? Cities typically have more volunteering opportunities than the suburbs, so men and women should determine if travel is a deterrent before choosing a volunteering opportunity. A nearby city might have opportunities that are more suitable to your skills, but if you are averse to traveling, then you may not stay committed to such projects. When looking for a volunteering opportunity, determine where you would like to volunteer, and be honest with yourself when assessing if travel is a potential deterrent. GB13B688 www.met rocreativeconnection.com GIVING BACK ’13 Ideal volunteer opportunities for youngsters According to the United States Bureau of Labor Statistics, roughly 64.5 million people volunteered through or for an organization at least once between September 2011 and September 2012. While those statistics do not include children under the age of 16, that does not mean youngsters cannot lend a helping hand and chip in as volunteers. For many youngsters, exposure to volunteering opportunities begins with mom and dad. In fact, the Corporation for National & Community Service notes that a youth from a family where at least one parent volunteers is nearly twice as likely to volunteer as a youth from a family with no family members who volunteer. Youngsters are often enthusiastic about volunteering, and that enthusiasm only increases when kids find the right volunteer opportunities. The following are a handful of places that typically offer volunteer opportunities tailor-made for youngsters who want to give back to their communities. Nature cleanup Many children love to spend time in the great outdoors, making a local beach or park cleanup an ideal way for kids to volunteer. Kids can join large groups to clear beaches and parks of litter and debris, all the while spending a few hours outdoors in the sun. Such projects keep kids on their feet as well, providing a healthy dose of exercise for youngsters who may not be into organized sports. Soup kitchen While soup kitchens may not be best suited to younger volunteers, middle school students and high schoolers can learn a lot when volunteering at neighborhood soup kitchens. Kids can accompany parents on weekend mornings, preparing and serving food to the less fortunate in their communities. Soup kitchens may open youngsters’ eyes to the reality that not everyone is Animal shelter Local animal shelters and veterinary hospitals often have ample volunteer opportunities available to youngsters with a love of animals. Some shelters may not allow kids under the age of 18 to have direct contact with the animals, so parents should inquire ahead of time before dropping kids off at the shelter or animal hospital. Garden centers Kids who have shown a knack for gardening might be interested in volunteering at their local garden centers or nurseries, where they can learn the basics of gardening, including planting, watering and grooming, from trained professionals. Some inner cities even host gardening programs geared specifically to teenagers who want to learn more about the environment and how to plant trees and flowers. Whether planting trees or cleaning up litter and debris, kids often have a host of volunteer opportunities at their disposal at local parks. as fortunate as they are, instilling a sense of obligation to the less fortunate that can serve kids well for the rest of their lives. Nursing home Residents of nursing homes may experience newfound vigor when getting a visit from a child. Parents can contact local nursing homes or retirement communities to learn about volunteer opportunities for children. Many facilities encourage local youths to read to residents whose vision might be fading, and some facilities even host arts and craft projects where youngsters are paired with elderly residents. Such activities make great opportunities even for younger volunteers, who can often connect with elderly men and women in ways that younger adults cannot. Religious organization The Corporation for National & Community Service notes that many youth are likely to volunteer through a religious organization. Such organizations, including synagogues and churches, mosques, tend to encourage their younger members to give back to their communities, and many are involved in a variety of volunteer opportunities aimed at kids of all ages and interests. Parents can contact the religious organization to which they belong or another organization in their community to learn about any affiliated volunteer opportunities for children. These experiences can expose kids to an array of volunteer activities and also help kids make new friends. Children often make great volunteers. Finding the right volunteering opportunity for your youngster can foster a love of volunteering for years to come. GB13B681 Things to consider before publicizing a charity event Date The day of the event also merits careful consideration. Holidays should always be avoided, as many people prefer to spend time with their families on holidays and plan such gatherings well in advance. Charitable events held on holidays likely won’t attract as many guests as those held on regular weekdays or weekends. Weeknights can be difficult for some people to attend, as commitments to work and family may not leave enough time for some men and women to make it to a charity event. Weekends might be more amenable, as many people do not work on Saturdays and Sundays and therefore have ample time to devote to charitable endeavors. When hosting a charitable event where guests will be spending time outdoors, try to choose a time of year when the weather tends to be mild, such as spring or fall. Harsh How to give responsibly The spirit of giving can be a wonderful thing to embrace and can help people to feel good about helping others. While most charities are legitimate entities, there are others that prey on the generosity of others. Some donors might be surprised to learn their donations are not always going to a worthy cause. Men and women can easily be overwhelmed by charity solicitations at certain times of the year and not know how to differentiate worthy charities from the ones that may not be legitimate. Donors should employ responsible giving by researching charities and ensuring their money is well spent on those truly in need. • Don’t give on a whim. Impulse giving can be irresponsible, as such donations might not be going to help those in need. In addition, when giving impulsively, donors may unknowingly be offering money to scammers preying on the well-intentioned. Research a charity before making any donations, carefully examining its targeted goals and how your donation is likely to be spent. • Do not give over the telephone. Telemarketing campaigns to solicit donations are not necessarily dishonest, but prospective donors should never give their personal information over the phone. If a telemarketer’s pitch impresses you, politely request that information be mailed to your home or ask for the charity’s Web site address and learn more about the charity there. Giving personal information over the phone is risky, as potential donors may not know if the person they’re speaking with is truly a representative of a charity or a criminal attempting to steal their identities. Even if the telemarketer is legitimate, chances are he or she works for a telemarketing firm hired by the charity, so some of your donation will be going to pay the telemarketer even if you want the entirety of your donation to go to the charity itself. Making a direct donation through the company’s Web site or sending a check directly to the charity eliminates the middle person, ensuring more of your money is going toward the cause you want to support. • Examine a charity’s financial records. Reputable charities should have no problem sharing their financial information with prospective donors, who should not hesitate to ask for these records. When examining a charity’s finances, make sure it is devoting at least 75 percent of its budget to its programs and services, avoiding charities that are spending too much money on administrative services and fundraising. All charities will need to reserve funds for administrative services, fundraising efforts and additional operating costs, but those costs should not exceed 25 percent of the organization’s budget. • Don’t be afraid to concentrate your giving. Many charities support many worthy causes, and it can be hard for well-intentioned donors to decide which charity is most deserving of their donations. But spreading smaller donations around several charities can make it difficult for those charities to make the most of your gift. More money will be spent processing each donation, reducing the potential impact of each gift along the way. Once you have discovered and fully vetted a charity in which you feel confident, don’t be afraid to make that charity the lone recipient of your charitable donations. • Give in the off-season. Many charities receive the bulk of their donations during the holiday season, when the spirit of giving and potential tax deductions compel many men and women to make their donations. But charities need just as much money to operate throughout the rest of the year as they do come the holiday season. If money is tight during the holiday season, don’t hesitate to give during the off-season. Your donation will be just as valued in July as in December, and you won’t be forced to make room for charitable donations in your holiday budget. GB13B675 How to keep volunteers happy Organizing a charitable function requires a substantial amount of forethought. Those with little experience planning events can easily be overwhelmed, but even event organizers with little or no experience can still host a successful event to benefit a good cause. The following are a few things planners should consider before setting anything in motion. Location Real estate professionals often emphasize location when showing homes or apartments to their clients. But location is valuable when choosing a destination for your charity event as well. If the event is invitation-only, make sure it’s in an accessible location and one where guests will be able to park their vehicles without difficulty. Guests are coming to support a good cause, so they should not be forced to spend a significant amount of time looking places to park. Valet parking is a nice touch, but such services cost money that will have to be diverted from your budget or the charity itself. If the charity event will be open to the public, then a location near heavy foot traffic that encourages walk-in guests is ideal. This can help raise more money and increase awareness for your cause. Any charitable event should always be held in a safe location that’s handicap accessible and easily accessible to both drivers and mass transit users alike. The less accessible the location, the less likely guests will show up. 15 Cocktail parties in the name of charity are best suited to early evening hours. winter weather or extreme summer heat can make guests uncomfortable, and some might skip the event entirely if the weather is not welcoming. Choosing a date when the weather promises to be mild increases the chances that more guests will show up to support your cause. Time of day The time of day also must be considered before announcing a charitable event and/or sending out invitations. Of course, time of day might be dictated by the event itself. For example, a pancake breakfast works best during breakfast hours, while a cocktail party is best suited to evening hours. However, planners have more flexibility with less time-specific events. Functions during which guests will be spending significant time outdoors might be better off held during the afternoon. Time may not be as important when the event will be held indoors, but it’s best to avoid asking guests to be out late at night or arrive especially early in the morning. Planning a charitable event is no small task, and that planning should begin even before publicizing the event and inviting guests. GB13B687 www.met rocreativeconnection.com Volunteers can be the life’s blood of nonprofit organizations. Without individuals willing to donate their time, charities facing tight budgets may not have sufficient personnel to achieve their goals. Organizations who rely heavily on volunteers can take the following steps to ensure their volunteers know their efforts are appreciated. • Create a welcoming environment. No matter how many times a person volunteers, he or she will feel like the new kid in town on his or her first day with a new organization. Make new volunteers feel welcome, giving them a guided tour during which you introduce them to fellow volunteers and full- or part-time staff members. An environment that is warm and welcoming from the moment a volunteer arrives will make the experience better for all involved. • Maintain an open door policy. Volunteers should feel comfortable conversing with executive directors and other higher-ups at the organization. Encourage the sharing of ideas, even with executives high up on the totem pole. Directors can meet with staff members to illustrate how everyone is working together and no one carries greater importance than another in the organization. • Be prepared for volunteers. Volunteers are giving their time and expecting nothing in return. Walking into an office that is not prepared for a volunteer may lead the volunteer to view the organization as unorganized or one that lacks dedication. Charities should have a clear plan in place with COPYRIGHT-FREE EDITORIAL CONTENT regard to the duties of volunteers. There should be a desk area or computer available when necessary. In addition, be sure to have work immediately available so the volunteer won’t be sitting around with little to do. • Clearly spell out time constraints. Volunteers often find time to volunteer while juggling their day jobs and responsibilities at home, and not everyone has the same amount of time available to devote to a charity. Therefore, being up front with how much time a project is expected to take can help a volunteer gauge if he or she will be able to assist. Decide how much time the job will need, and be honest with potential volunteers during interviews or when advertising openings. • Give frequent praise. Let volunteers know their work is appreciated. Come up with ways to show your appreciation, be it taking volunteers out to lunch, providing snacks or other treats around the office or accommodating their personal schedules. Each of these efforts shows volunteers that you have their best interests in mind. • Provide proof of success. Keep volunteers informed about the fruits of their labors. Share notes of gratitude from those who have benefitted from your organization’s efforts with the staff. Single out volunteers who played key roles in making changes happen. Frequent encouragement and proof of success will raise spirits and reassure volunteers that their efforts GB13B680 are worthwhile. www.met rocreativeconnection.com 16 GIVING BACK ’13 Unique ways to raise funds Fundraisers play an integral role at nonprofit organizations across the globe. Without fundraisers, many such organizations would not be able to stay afloat, and the millions of people who benefit from the efforts of nonprofit organizations might not get the help they need. While there is no formula for a successful fundraiser, creative and innovative fundraisers tend to be the most fun for all involved, including those working to raise funds and the people inspired to donate. The following are a few unique fundraising ideas worth considering. • Poker night: Poker is a popular pastime for men and women alike, so a poker night fundraiser should attract a crowd. Amateur card players can try their hand at Texas Hold ‘Em and should not worry too much if their hands prove less than stellar. Poker night charity tournaments typically start off with each player being given an equal amount of chips in exchange for an entrance fee. And while there’s real money to be won, players won’t be betting their own money, making for a less stressful, more relaxed environment where players are encouraged to have fun. • Softball game: Softball provides another creative way to raise funds for a good cause. Schools looking to raise money can host a students versus teachers softball game and charge admission for spectators. Encourage members of the school’s parent-teacher organization to prepare baked goods and other items, which can then be sold at the game, with all profits ultimately going to the school. Nonprofit organizations can host a day- or weekendlong softball tournament for area teams, raising money through entrance fees and food and beverage sales. • Concert: Many formal fundraisers feature local musicians hired to entertain the guests, but a fundraiser need not be a black-tie affair to strike a cord with the public’s love of live music. A community concert featuring local or even more established artists willing to donate their time is a great way to bring a community together and raise money for a good cause. Keep ticket prices for the concert reasonable to encourage large attendance numbers, and set up concession stands with food from local vendors to raise even more money. • Cooking contest: The quickest way A fun run for charity is a great way to attract donors of all ages. to a potential donor’s heart might just be through his or her stomach. Host a cooking contest where community residents or local restaurant owners can showcase their best and most creative dishes. Charge admission at the door, and then encourage guests to vote on their favorite foods at the show, rewarding winners at the end of the night with a special prize. • Fun run: A community run where members of all ages are encouraged to sign up is another fun way to raise money for a good cause. Charge entrance fees for all runners over the age of 12, and order trophies for those runners who clock the best times in various age groups as well as those who recruit the most runners. Reward runners whose efforts prove especially inspiring, and make sure each runner goes home with a T-shirt to commemorate the special event. Fundraisers are how many nonprofit organizations pay their bills and generate money necessary to support and further their causes. But fundraisers need not be adult-only, black-tie affairs. Organizers should think outside the box when planning their next fundraisers to encourage people of all ages and backgrounds to join in the fun. GB13B677 Exploring careers in philanthropy The growing number of nonprofit organizations and other philanthropic groups has made opportunities for careers in philanthropy more plentiful. Those with professional business experience or even students right out of college often find opportunities within organizations geared to giving back. According to Indiana UniversityPurdue University Indianapolis, there are more than 1.4 million nonprofit organizations in the United States alone. These organizations need dedicated staff to run their operations, and employees of such nonprofits often find there are several advantages to working for charitable organizations. • Happier work environments: Working in philanthropy means improving other people’s lives. Employees may be happy in their positions because they realize their work is part of a larger effort to help the less fortunate. The nonprofit sector will attract other like-minded people, and working alongside people with similar interests can make for a more enjoyable workplace environment. • Diverse responsibilities: Nonprofit operations are generally smaller than many other companies, and employees often find themselves with diverse responsibilities and more direct access to management and other decision makers. People interested in dabbling in various parts of a business may find the intimate nature of the nonprofit sector an ideal fit. • Opportunities for travel: Some nonprofits offer the chance to work out- How to give back even when time isn’t on your side Men and women want to give back to their communities, but too often find themselves strapped for time. Commitments to work and family can make it hard to find time to volunteer. But hectic schedules do not have to prevent people from doing good in their communities and beyond. The following are a few simple ways time-strapped men and women can give back to their communities. • Promote a good cause. Shedding light on a good cause can help the less fortunate. When a local nonprofit organization is having a fundraiser or an event to raise awareness, men and women who won’t be able to participate can still chip in by promoting such events via social media or by encouraging friends and family members to go in their stead. It won’t take long to post a link to a favorite charity’s Web site on your social media profile, and doing so can raise awareness of that charity among family and friends. • Make a donation. While making a donation may not seem like the most creative way to give back, men and women who are short on time should not downplay the significance of such donations. Writing a check to a favorite charity may be a less than satisfying way to support a good cause, but nonprofit organizations cannot succeed and continue their missions without donations. So while a financial donation might not seem like an active way to give back, that does not mean such donations are not as appreciated as volunteering time. • Work with organizations that host short-term projects. Volunteering is often a significant commitment, as many organizations prefer volunteers to promise a certain number of hours per week or per month. But many other organizations host short-term projects that may last only a day. Habitat for Humanity, for example, often allows volunteers to sign up for one-day projects that are ideal for those who want to give back but don’t have the time to make long-term commitments. Signing up for such projects well in advance allows time-strapped individuals to clear their schedules in advance without having to rearrange their daily lives. • Become a mentor. Mentoring is a great way to give back Mentoring young people is one way that busy men and women can give back to their communities without sacrificing much of their time. without making a significant time commitment. Mentors can take young persons under their wings and offer advice on careers, education and many other areas where they might ask for some guidance. Such advice can be offered over a weekly lunch, through email or weekly phone calls, none of which will eat up too much time. Mentoring is a significant responsibility and one that provides an invaluable service, and it’s a great way for busy professionals to give back to their communities. • Make it a family affair. Parents who find it difficult to volunteer because it takes away from time they can spend with their families can combine the two activities and volunteer as a family. Bring your children along when volunteering at the local park, beach or soup kitchen. You will still get quality time with your kids, and you will be instilling a sense of social responsibility in your children. Finding time to volunteer can be difficult. But even the busiest men and women can still give back to their communities in a variety of ways. GB13B699 Charitable giving to friends and family Offering a friend or family member in need some financial assistance is a thoughtful, selfless gesture, not unlike donations made to charitable organizations. But while the intentions behind each offering may be similar, such gestures are not very similar in the eyes of the law. Individuals who make contributions to nonprofit organizations can usually deduct these donations from their personal taxes, but similar gifts given to family and friends are not subject to the same tax rules. In fact, if certain guidelines are followed, such gifts may prove problematic down the road. In Canada, there is no “gift tax.” That means that any resident of the country who receives a gift or inheritance of any amount from nearly every source (excluding an employer) does not have to include this gift in his or her income. Sometimes those giving the gift, especially when giving real estate other than a principal residence, or financial investments, will have to pay tax on any resulting capital gain on the gifts. Gift taxes in the United States are not paid by those in receipt of the gift, but rather by the person doing the giving. Gift taxes were created to prevent people from avoiding the federal estate tax. Generally speaking, the gift tax impacts only the very wealthy. A person in the United States may gift up to $13,000 in a given year without paying any tax. Married couples may gift $26,000 jointly. Furthermore, there is a lifetime limit of $1 million in total gifts. Many people who want to give financial gifts to children or other family members in need worry about the potential tax implications of such good deeds. But many of these worries are unfounded. When giving a substantial gift, men and women must file a Form 709 with the Internal Revenue Service no earlier than January 1 and no later than April 15 the year after the gift is given. It is always adviseable to consult with an accountant or tax professional. He or she is knowledgeable in current tax laws and will be able to guide you accordingly. Tax regulations are always evolving, and it is the business of an accountant to keep abreast of any changes from year to year. GB13B721 Charitable donations and tax deductions side of the country. Nonprofit organizations who work across the globe may help build homes or schools in less developed countries or establish arts and education programs in countries where such opportunities are lacking. A job in the nonprofit sector may allow people to experience new cultures and opportunities that may never present themselves in the private sector. • Growth opportunities: Wearing a variety of hats, as many nonprofit employees do on a regular basis, allows those working at nonprofit organizations to build their resumes in ways not available to men and women working at more structured companies. People who work in the nonprofit sector often find that their careers are rewarding for a variety of reasons. www.met rocreativeconnection.com GB13B672 People make charitable donations for various reasons. Some are motivated by a desire to give back to their communities, while others may be inspired by a particular cause whether that cause is based down the street or across the globe. Network for Good, an organization that helps nonprofits connect with prospective donors, says 89 percent of American households give to charity. Gifts average 3.2 percent of household income, or roughly $1,620 annually, and oftentimes such donations are tax deductible. The Canada Revenue Agency and the United States Internal Revenue Service are the organizations tasked with overseeing tax-related issues. In-depth information regarding applicable tax deductions can be found on their respective Web sites, www.cra-arc.gc.ca and www.irs.gov. Individuals also consult with a qualified accountant should they have any questions regarding charitable donations and deductions. In addition, there are some guidelines for donors to follow when making donations and claiming tax deductions. • Recognize that only charitable contributions made in the calendar year are potentially eligible to be claimed as deductions. For example, only those donations made between January 1, 2013 and December 31, 2013 can be claimed on your 2013 tax returns (filed in 2014). Therefore, if you’re hoping to deduct donations as soon as possible, do your giving before the end of the calendar year. • Canadians can only claim charitable donations on their taxes if the charities that benefitted from their donations are recognized as registered charities. A list of registered charities is available on the CRA Web site. Donors also can verify with a charity if they are registered before making donations. COPYRIGHT-FREE EDITORIAL CONTENT • The United States also requires donations be given to a qualified organization for donors to earn a deduction. You cannot deduct contributions made to specific individuals or political candidates and organizations. In general, trusts, foundations, war veteran’s organizations, domestic fraternal societies, churches, nonprofit charitable organizations, volunteer fire companies, and medical research organizations are considered qualified organizations. • Americans also may be able to deduct contributions to certain Canadian charitable organizations covered under an income tax treaty with Canada. But such deductions are typically reserved for those donors who generate income from sources in Canada. Consult with an accountant concerning contributions outside of the United States. • Fair market value is used to determine the value of clothing or other nonfinancial donations. The CRA defines gifts as goods, securities and land. Special rules may apply to vehicle donations. • It is important to keep receipts for all charitable donations. This helps verify the donation and can be beneficial should donors be audited down the road. You must have a donation receipt in order to claim charitable contributions on Canadian taxes. The receipt should list your name, address, the charity’s registration number, the value of the donation and additional pertinent information. • American donors must file Form 1040 and itemize deductions on Schedule A when deducting charitable donations. Canadians will fill out schedule 9 on their T1 income tax return. Donors can make the most of their good deeds by keeping good records and selecting approved charities before filing their tax returns. GB13B670 www.met rocreativeconnection.com 17 GIVING BACK ’13 Gift auctions can successfully raise funds In an effort to add some creativity to traditional fundraisers, many charitable groups have begun to rely on gift auctions. Gift auctions, sometimes referred to as a “tricky tray,” ask participants to silently bid on various prizes. Each prize is put on display and participants go around and place prepurchased raffle tickets into bowls or bags beside the prizes. After bidding has concluded, an emcee will select a winning ticket from each collection of entries and read out the winner’s name or ticket number. Depending on how many prizes are available, gift auctions provide hours of fun. Organizing a gift auction requires a team of dedicated volunteers. Here are some guidelines to begin. • Establish the event date and venue. Before any gifts can be collected, set the date for the auction and secure a location. The location should be large enough to display all of the prizes. A school gymnasium or the party room of a firehouse or fraternal lodge may suffice. The date and time should be convenient for adult participants, as gift auctions are often to events that cater to adults. • Collect prizes. The prizes can be purchased by the organization hosting the auction, but organizers can also solicit donations from local businesses and individuals. Prizes can range from photography packages with a local photographer to gift certificates to area restaurants to vouchers for trips to zoos or other family- A movie night gift basket makes an ideal donation for a fundraising gift auction. friendly activities. Prizes also can be categorized by value. For example, grand prizes may include vacations or furniture. Categories can be determined once all the gifts have been purchased. • Sell entry to the event and prize tickets. Some organizations prefer to sell entry packages to participants. This may include an entrance fee to the event as well as a number of tickets that can be used at the auction. Naturally, more tickets will be available for sale at the night of the event. Advertise the gift auction well in advance to generate Things to do when starting a nonprofit interest. Mention a few of the big-ticket prizes in any advertisements to increase interest. • Enlist a team of gift-wrappers. Presentation may determine bids and increase those bids. Ask for donations of baskets and wrapping materials, such as ribbon and cellophane. Each prize can be wrapped in ways to entice bidders to bid high and bid often. • Deliver all of the prizes to the venue and configure the room. Create a festive atmosphere for the gift auction. Place prizes on tables around the perimeter of the room so they can be easily viewed. Set up the middle of the room with tables where participants can sit. You may want to assign tables to certain large groups of friends who prefer to sit together. • Encourage participants to enjoy food and drink. Refreshments can make the event more lively, and selling refreshments is another way to raise money. Offer a selection of beverages, both alcoholic and nonalcoholic, as well as chips and other finger foods. Consider catering the event or asking for volunteers to bring in food pot-luck style. • Enlist day-of-event volunteers. Volunteers willing to work during the event can carry the prizes to the winning bidders and answer any questions guests might have throughout the auction. Gift auctions are a fun way to raise money for good causes. GB13B685 Make a donation to good health Charitable giving means different things to different people. While some associate donations with money, clothing or other tangible goods, donations also can include vital parts of our bodies. Blood Blood transfusions and supplementation are vital to treating injured patients. Blood also is necessary during routine surgeries. Having an adequate blood supply at the ready can be a matter of life and death for a person in dire need of a transfusion. Canadian Blood Services, which manages the national supply of blood and blood products in Canada, announced during the summer of 2013 that the country is facing a “concerning” shortage of blood due to fewer donations and constant demand. The story is similar in the United States, where the American Red Cross reports a blood donation is needed every two seconds. Blood is perishable, and the need is constant. Red blood cells only have a shelf life of 42 days and platelets just five days, so supply must be replenished constantly. Blood supplies are at critical levels. Making a donation can help save a life. Blood can be donated whole or as plasma or platelets. Plasma is the yellow fluid in which blood cells are suspended. Platelets are smaller than white or red blood cells and help the blood to clot. Many blood collection centers will tell you that O blood type is in the highest demand because O blood, particularly O-negative, is compatible with all blood types. But it also is the blood type in the shortest supply. Organs The organization Donate Life America says nearly 120,000 men, women and children currently need lifesaving organ transplants, and every 10 minutes another name is added to the national organ transplant waiting list. In addition to organ transplants, tissue transplants can save lives. Certain organs and tissues can be transplanted from living donors, including kidneys, liver lobes, lungs, and bone marrow. The National Living Organ Donors Foundation, Inc., says living organ donations can mean a more perfect match for the recipient, a longer transplant life and fewer medications. Living donors give patients an alternative to waiting months or years on transplant lists. Men, women and children also can donate their organs upon their death. Drivers can declare their intentions to donate their organs by filling out information on the backs of their driver’s licenses, and individuals also can declare such intentions in their wills. Hair Cancer patients facing radiation and chemotherapy treatments may lose their hair. Losing one’s hair can affect selfesteem. Certain organizations accept donations of human hair, which they fashion into wigs for those who have lost their own hair to cancer and other diseases. Burn victims also benefit from hair donations. The organizations Locks of Love and Wigs For Kids are two not-for-profit groups providing hair replacement solutions for those affected by hair loss. The cosmetic company Pantene has their own “Beautiful Lengths” donation program that also accepts hair donations. In order to donate to most organizations, a minimum hair length is needed and hair should be free of permanent color, bleach or other chemical treatments. Check with the organization for a full list of guidelines. Giving a gift of health by way of a blood, organ or hair donation can make a lasting difference in another person’s life. GB13B679 Available for Immediate Download! Access the Editorial Library of MetroCreativeConnection at www.metrocreativeconnection.com www.met rocreativeconnection.com In recent years, the number of nonprofit organizations has skyrocketed. According to the National Center for Charitable Statistics, there are around 1.5 million tax-exempt organizations operating in the United States, which report more than $1.59 trillion in total revenue. The organization Imagine Canada says there are an estimated 165,000 nonprofit organizations in Canada, where the nonprofit and voluntary sector is the second largest in the world behind the Netherlands. Establishing a nonprofit organization is not an easy task and should not be entered without sound guidance and forethought. Though beginning a business, be it a for-profit or nonprofit organization, is different for everyone, there are some common steps when founding a nonprofit organization. While this information is to serve as a reference, it should not replace the advice of legal counsel knowledgeable of tax-exempt organizations in your area. The requirements for starting a nonprofit organization vary depending on a host of factors, including geography, so it is highly recommended that men and women looking to start a nonprofit organization consult with an attorney to ensure they are in compliance with all regulations before opening their doors. • Write a mission statement that clarifies your intentions. The mission statement should identify the overall purpose of the organization, including why the organization should exist. Include the values that will guide the nonprofit, its benefit to others, and how you would like others to view the business. Do no go forward with your plan if you cannot clearly identify a mission for your organization. • Decide the type of organization you want to be. This will help categorize your nonprofit. Being tax-exempt is not the same as being tax-deductible. You may want your organization to be incorporated to protect against personal liability. Otherwise, you may want to be an informal nonprofit organization, such as a group of friends getting together for a common goal. Setting the groundwork for your nonprofit will depend on the type of organization you want to build. • Determine who will be involved with the organization. Having a lot of people interested in the nonprofit can signal broad community support. Otherwise, if the nonprofit is only exciting to a few people, it may prove less capable of realizing its mission statement. Try to create a group of mixed talents that will have a shared passion. If there is not enough interest, it might be better for you to focus your efforts on joining an existing organization with a similar focus. • Create a business plan that includes a needs assessment. A needs assessment is used to determine if there really is a need in your community for the services you want to offer. Although the nonprofit will be estab- lished to help others and not to make money, it is still a business and must be deemed viable. The business plan should also include where the nonprofit will be located, how you will market your product or service, how management and staff will be organized, and where you will get money for the startup and monthly operations. • Consider seeking the support of a fiscal sponsor. A fiscal sponsor is another nonprofit organization that will help share resources to handle startup costs and fees. There also are businesses that share their resources to help nonprofit organizations establish themselves. The National Council of Nonprofit Associations can let you know if there are such businesses in your area. Also, seek the support of an attorney. While you can lay much of the groundwork yourself, professional legal advice can prove invaluable. Various reports and filings must be assembled and submitted before the organization can open its doors, and such red tape can be confusing for the novice. • Establish a method of keeping good records. A bookkeeper or a recording secretary should be one of your first hires. Thanks to the heavy volume of paperwork necessary to establish both for-profit and nonprofit organizations, good records must be kept to ensure you are operating correctly and legally. • Develop a fundraising plan early on. Fundraising is necessary to meet your operation costs and develop funds necessary to achieve your goals. The majority of that funding will come from private citizens and local service groups. Seeking donations strictly via a Web site may be ineffective and illegal, particularly if the organization is not registered to solicit funds outside of its home state. A Web site should further your cause, but effective advertising and word-ofmouth recommendations will help fuel donations. There are a variety of other things to consider when starting a nonprofit organization. You may need liability insurance and an insurance agent to handle health and life insurance benefits for employees. Bylaws should be written to specify how the board will operate. A solicitation license will be required if you plan to solicit funds, and you may need a mail permit to get a discount on bulk mailings. Those who plan to file for tax-exempt status will be required to fill out the requisite forms at both the federal and state or provincial levels. There are many free or low-cost resources available to help guide you through the process of starting a nonprofit, both online and at the library. Working at another nonprofit organization or volunteering your time can prove an invaluable experience to men and women hoping to one day start their own nonprofit organization. GB13B674 Largest charities by financial donations Charitable groups raise funds to provide assistance to those in need, and many charities rely on private contributions to fund their operating costs and meet their missions. Billions of dollars in charitable donations are made each year in the United States alone, and the following charities are those that received the most donations. Data provided courtesy of Forbes and is based on 2011 figures, the most recent year for which information is available. 1. United Way - $3.9 billion 2. Salvation Army - $1.8 billion 3. Feeding America - $1.2 billion 4. American Red Cross - $1.1 billion 5. Food for the Poor - $1 billion 6. American Cancer Society - $900 million 7. AmeriCares Foundation & Catholic Charities USA - $795 million 8. World Vision - $780 million 9. YMCA - $770 million 10. St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital - $680 million GB13B720 COPYRIGHT-FREE EDITORIAL CONTENT www.met rocreativeconnection.com 18 GIVING BACK ’13 Fraternal organizations involved in charitable giving Fraternal organizations have been in existence since the days of ancient Greece and Rome. A fraternal group is a formal organization of men who gather together for a common goal. Although some fraternal orders are viewed as secret societies, many other fraternal groups operate in the public eye, and some are even lauded for their philanthropic efforts. Freemasons Freemasons make up one of the largest fraternal orders in the world. Freemasons are generally less vocal about their charitable endeavors, but the Masonic Service Association oversees numerous programs, including a hospital visitation service that aims to have a Masonic volunteer working with patients at every Veteran’s Administration Hospital in the United States. Fraternal Order of Eagles The Fraternal Order of Eagles Charity Foundation was organized to streamline donations to healthcare-related funds and children’s charities in an effort to facilitate giving. Individuals who may not have the ability to join the Eagles but want to support their efforts can participate in their Circle of Life program. Each member is eligible to be a Circle of Life patron by contributing a donation to the Charity Foundation. Donations help to fund humanitarian programs. The Eagles meet each year to determine how to best disseminate charitable funds. Some of the organizations that have benefitted from the generosity of the Eagles and their donors include the Art Ehrmann Cancer Fund, Jimmy Durante Children’s Fund and the Disaster Relief Fund. Shriners International Shriners International is a fraternity based on fellowship and the Masonic principles of brotherly love. There are nearly 200 chapters in seven countries and thousands of clubs around the world. Although Shriners International is a brotherhood, the organization says it is also focused on bringing families Several fraternal organizations consider charitable giving an integral element of their core principles. together. Many activities are geared toward families and children to help promote shared values across generations. The Shriners are heavily committed to children, and their main charitable efforts have been devoted to the Shriners Hospitals for Children. These hospitals have a mission to provide quality care to children with neuromusculoskeletal conditions, burn injuries and other specialized health conditions. These services are provided to all children without regard for a patient’s ability to pay. Knights of Columbus The Knights of Columbus is a fraternal benefit society chartered in Connecticut in 1882 thanks to the efforts of Father Michael J. McGivney. The Knight of Columbus is the world’s foremost Catholic fraternal society. In addition to spreading the message of Catholicism and working in concert with various churches to promote religious vocations, the Knights of Columbus has many charitable programs. The organization helps with disaster relief, provides scholarships to college-bound students, assists orphans around the world, and operates the “Food for Families” program. While some fraternal orders remain a mystery to those outside of their ranks, many such organizations consider charitable giving a significant part of their GB13B684 core principles. What to learn about charities before making donations Nonprofit organizations rely heavily on donations in order to pay their operational costs and meet their missions. But with so many charities worthy of donations, prospective donors may find it difficult to narrow down their options and ultimately choose one charity worthy of their support. While there is no formula prospective donors can use to determine which charity is most deserving of a donation, men and women can take steps to learn more about charities before making donations, and such knowledge can make the decision process a lot easier. Resource allocation Many charities list lofty goals in their mission statements, but donors who blindly donate never know if any of those goals are actually met. Charities must make their financial records available to the public, who can then examine an organization’s programs and resource allocation. Savvy donors can examine an organization’s resource allocation to determine if the bulk of an organization’s finances are going toward missions or operating costs. If the charity is allocating sufficient funds to meet the goals referenced in its mission statement, then donors can rest assured that their donations will be going toward a worthy cause. If a substantial amount of the organization’s resources are allocated toward operating costs and other programs that have little to do with the company’s mission statement, then donors may want to send their donation dollars elsewhere. Plan of action It’s one thing for a charity to have a mission statement and quite another to have a plan to meet that mission. When vetting charities, ask for specific information as to how the charity plans to meet its mission. This includes how it plans to raise funds and how it intends to allocate those funds. Information such as this should already have been spelled out in the charity’s business plan. In addition, ask for specific information as to programs the charity has instituted or intends to institute. The organization’s plan should seem like a plausible way to meet its mission, and the organization ideally should be able to produce evidence that its plan is effective. Donors who are skeptical of an organization’s programs or approach may want to donate to another charity. External reviews Prospective donors can look for an objective review of a charity and its programs to determine if the organization is worthy of their donations. Many charities have third party auditors review their operations and approaches, feeling that such audits provide valuable insight to staff and prospective donors alike. If external reviews from third parties are positive, then donors should feel more comfortable when donating to such organizations. Negative external reviews should raise a red flag. Choosing a worthy charity can be a challenging process for prospective donors. But researching a charity’s background, including its financing and programs, can make that decision much easier. GB13B690 www.met rocreativeconnection.com Online scams abound during times of heightened giving Charities receive donations from millions of well-intentioned men, women and even children each year. While many charities are reputable and worthy of donations, donors should know that criminals masquerading as charities are out there as well. These criminals want to steal more than just money. The Internet has made life easier in many ways, but it has also put people at greater risk of identity theft, especially during times of heightened giving, when many donors make charitable donations online. Donors must share sensitive personal information when making contributions online. Encryption software can safeguard donor information from potential criminals, but there are other ways crooks can have access to personal data. The following are a few ways for donors to protect themselves from online criminals. • Ignore email solicitations. Email solicitations are rarely what they seem, and many charitable organizations do not solicit donations via email. So how to explain that inbox full of messages requesting charitable donations? Online scammers often operate under the banner of a genuinely reputable organization, using its logo, name and even including a link that appears to direct readers to the charity’s Web site, which has been set up to look exactly like the legitimate charity’s own site. However, that Web site may have a slightly different URL, and donors who are not careful may enter their personal information without ever realizing they just shared that information with a criminal posing as a charity. Donors concerned about email solicitations should consult the charity referenced in the message — independently finding its contact information — to determine if the email was legitimate or if it was sent by a scammer. Never click on any links or download any attachments within the email. Attachments may contain spyware software that will invade a user’s computer without his or her knowledge, lifting any personal information it can find. • Don’t fall prey to “victim” messages. Nearly everyone with an email account has received messages from someone claiming to be suffering from a disease or victimized by a natural disaster who only needs a few kindly donations from strangers to get his or her life back in order. Such stories may be gutwrenching, but they are almost certainly the work of criminals playing on the compassion of good-hearted people. Men and women with debilitating diseases or those victimized by natural disasters do not have the resources to contact strangers via email and solicit their help. Delete such messages from your inbox or ignore their contents no matter how heartbreaking the stories may seem. • Learn to recognize reputable Web sites. Many scammers posing as charities are fully capable of establishing convincing Web sites that appear as authentic as those of legitimate charitable organizations. However, there are a few telltale signs that prospective donors can look for to determine if a Web site is reputable or criminal. For example, Web sites with URLs that end in a series of numbers are unlikely to be those of legitimate charitable organizations. In addition, a majority of charities have Web addresses ending in .org instead of .com or .net. The information a site asks for may be another red flag. Many reputable organizations solicit donations via their Web site. But the only information such Web sites will ask for is a donor’s mailing address, credit card information and possibly a phone number. Sites that ask for more sensitive personal information, including a social security number, birth date, bank routing number, bank account number, or even the personal identification number associated with a bank account, are likely disreputable and not to be trusted. Sharing such information online leaves a person especially vulnerable to identity theft. Online giving is often a quick and easy way to donate to a favorite charity. But donors must be careful that their goodwill is not being taken advantage of by the many online criminals posing as reputable charities in need of donations. GB13B676 How to ask others to donate to a good cause Financial donations are essential to nonprofit organizations’ survival, helping such organizations meet their operating costs and carry out their missions. However, asking for donations is not always easy. The following are some tips for individuals looking to raise funds for good causes. • Establish your target. The amount of money you hope to raise should be a realistic goal. For example, if you are participating in a fun run or walk to benefit a local charity, a goal of raising $1,000 is more realistic than a goal of $1,000,000. • Work as a team. Enlist the help of volunteers who are truly passionate about the cause. Such team members are likely to work harder to raise funds. • Clearly identify the organization you’re supporting. Some groups are easily recognizable, while smaller organizations may not be as readily known. Take steps to ensure donors are fully aware of the organization you’re supporting. • Know where the money will be going. Prospective donors will want a clear picture of how their donations will be used. Have such information readily available when seeking donations. • Ask for donations in person. Friends and family are far more likely to support a loved one’s attempt to raise money for a good cause when such solicitations are made by the individual and not sent out as a mass email from the charity itself. A personal appeal also gives fundraisers the chance to explain why the cause means so much to them. • Let donors know that no donation is too small. Individuals who keep their fundraising goals realistic should recognize that no donation is too small and that some prospective donors may only be able to afford smaller contributions. GB13B719 Volunteering opportunities for retirees Today’s retirees recognize that an active retirement tends to be more rewarding than simply sitting around the house, and that attitude is reflected in the vast number of retirees who volunteer with various nonprofit organizations and other programs across the globe. The following are a handful of volunteering opportunities for those retirees who want to give back and make the most of their retirements. Habitat for Humanity Habitat for Humanity is a nonprofit organization that builds and repairs homes for people in need. It has a program titled “Care-A-Vanners” in which volunteers typically spend two weeks traveling around the United States and Canada in rented RVs (retirees who own RVs may be able to drive their own vehicles) building and restoring homes. Volunteers must pay their own way and bring along their own supplies, such as work shoes, gloves, tool belts, and some tools (power tools are typically provided by the local Habitat for Humanity chapter), and free or low-cost RV parking is provided by Habitat for Humanity. Adventurous retirees who enjoy hitting the open road may find “Care-A-Vanners” matches their love of travel with their desire to give back. Work with children Many retirees, especially those without grandchildren or who live far away from their grandchildren, find volunteering with children to be especially rewarding. The opportunities to work with kids are numerous, and retirees can choose a volunteering opportunity where their own life experiences come in handy. For example, retirees who worked in the medical field might want to volunteer their time at a local children’s hospital, where they can assist families as they cope with a child’s illness and spend time with the children themselves, whether’s it’s tutoring sick children, reading them stories or helping them understand their illnesses. Retirees with considerable experience in the business world may want to work with a mentoring program that matches them up with careerminded youngsters. Service vacations Retirement is often seen as a time to travel and see the world, and many retirees have started to combine that love of travel with service opportunities. Globe Aware, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, develops short-term volunteer programs in international environments. Each activity aims to promote cultural awareness and promote sustainability in needy communities. Volunteers work to address issues identified by the host communities as particularly pressing, interacting with the local residents in ways that are often impossible on more traditional vacations. COPYRIGHT-FREE EDITORIAL CONTENT Meals on Wheels Retirees tend to have their mornings and afternoons free, making them ideal candidates to volunteer with programs such as Meals on Wheels, a nonprofit organization devoted to delivering nutritious meals to those with limited mobility who are unable to prepare their own meals. The program delivers more than one million meals per day across the United States, and Canada has its own meal delivery programs as well. Many Meals on Wheels volunteers are retirees, who can decide their level of involvement upon volunteering. Disaster relief Disaster relief programs may be less predictable than more routine volunteer programs, but retirees often make great volunteers at disaster relief sites. Unlike working professionals who cannot travel to disaster relief sites without ample planning ahead of time, retirees often find the flexibility of retirement allows them to pitch in when an unforesee natural disaster strikes and volunteers are needed seemingly overnight. Many disaster relief programs need volunteers who are certified in CPR or have other unique lifesaving skills, but even retirees without such skills can help by handling supplies or by comforting and assisting survivors of natural disasters. GB13B683 www.met rocreativeconnection.com MCC EDITORIAL LIBRARY ’13 Metro’s Online Editorial Library 19 You are reading this month’s Editorial package, filled with ready-to-run, copyright-free features that relate to specific monthly themes as well as popular general interest categories. Now see additional offerings at www.metrocreativeconnection.com ... Retrieving Content There are many ways to search within the MetroCreativeConnection Editorial Library. This basic primer should be of valuable assistance to those new to the site. If you’re a longtime user, perhaps this will serve as a refresher or enable you to discover a new tip. Here are the items located in the Editorial Library and the various ways to search for them. Editions Editions are themed subjects that provide a section’s worth of material. There are one or two editions published each month. For example, September's edition is Fall Home Improvement, while October provides Careers & Business and Fall ...On the Road. Use the Edition pulldown to view two years’ worth of articles with the same theme. Retrieve cover ideas in the Spec Ads & Covers Library. Timely Features Timely Features present articles geared to specific events and holidays within a month, as well as general interest features for popular subjects such as health and fitness, parenting, recreation, environment, and just about any subject imaginable. For your convenience, Timely Features is listed under the Edition menu. Use the Edition pulldown to choose Timely Features and type a month and year into the Issue Date box to view a specific month. Category Category searches through the pulldown menu scan the entire database, regardless of Edition or Timely Features, to cull related material. There are categories for the most popular types of features requested by editors. Use category searching when you want the most results to browse. Bonus Features Bonus Features are provided free of charge, exclusively to Metro subscribers. Use the Bonus Features pulldown menu to access weekly crossword puzzles, horoscopes, Kids’ Corner material, Prime Cuts recipes, word searches and Metro Sudoku. There is a sudoku puzzle in varying degrees of difficulty for each day of the month. In addition, subscribers can access Metro’s latest bonus weekly features, including Crypto Fun, Word Scramble and Guess Who. Keyword Keyword searches are always an option. Use them alone, in combination with other keywords, or along with any of the pulldown menus for Edition, Category or Bonus Features. e-Section Use the e-Section menu to retrieve a section’s worth of materials that matches the online e-Sections. Cover Designs Get a complete cover for each themed section give your supplement immediate visual impact. Locate covers in the Spec Ads & Covers Library. Promotional Ads Promote sections to advertisers and readers. Locate promotional ads in the Spec Ads & Covers Library. www.metrocreativeconnection.com Bonus Weekly Features Give You More Ways to Make Money With Metro! November Bonus Features November plays host to numerous events. Here’s a sample of what’s inside the Bonus Weekly Features that correspond to a number of those events: • Lung Cancer • November Birthdays Awareness Month • Thanksgiving • November Horoscopes Bonus Features • Kids’ Corner Puzzles Get a direct connection to the youth market in your area with informative and entertaining features. A Canadian version is also available through the pulldown selection. • Prime Cuts Recipes Offer readers seasonal and timely meal ideas and capture advertising from food-related businesses. • Crossword Puzzles Appeal to the puzzle enthusiasts in your readership with weekly crosswords. • Horoscopes Entertaining and popular features that can highlight birthday greeting pages. • Metro Sudoku Puzzles Get one feature for each day of the month to enable sustained sponsorship for your entertainment pages. • Word Search Puzzles For adult puzzle enthusiasts. Plus, visit the Editorial Library of Metro CreativeConnection to download daily Metro Sudoku puzzles and solutions. Puzzles are provided in three levels of difficulty. Don’t miss all-new Word Search puzzles as well! November Bonus Idea: Put some color into all of your publications — even your weekly or monthly puzzle pages. Metro now offers Kids’ Corner and Horoscopes in full color. Subscribers can simply download resizable EPS images and text files for these puzzles from the Bonus Feature pulldown menu in the MetroCreativeConnection Editorial Library. KC13B201 to KC13B207 KC13B101 to KC13B108 HS13B100 HS13B200 CW13B110 CW13B210 Subscribers can dowload the art and text files of Kids’ Corner, Crosswords, Horoscopes and Prime Cuts from the Editorial Library of MetroCreativeConnection. Subscribers can also download the art for Canadian Kids’ Corner, tailor made for editors catering to Canadian markets, by selecting the “canada kids corner” from the Bonus Features pulldown menu. KC13B301 to KC13B307 KC13B401 to KC13B407 HS13B300 CW13B310 HS13B400 CW13B410 Subscribers can download the art and text files of Metro’s latest bonus weekly additions, “Crypto Fun (CQ),” “Word Scramble (WD)” and “Guess Who (GW),” from the Editorial Library of MetroCreativeConnection. Ad# N1311A00006C & Covers Library, select “Multiple Advertiser” from the “Ad Type” pull-down menu. HELPFUL HINT: When searching for Metro Sales Events in the MCC Spec Ads Ad# N1311A00007C Teamed with headings and art from the Metro Newspaper Service, these Timely Features become even more valuable as ready-to-sell layouts! Give them to your sales department for an immediate revenue opportunity. Each month you get two options with the same themed subject, with different articles, so you can sell the directories as campaigns for multiple runs while keeping your readers engaged. Metro Sales Events are located in the MCC Spec Ads & Covers Library, searchable by keyword or ad file name. Ad# N1311A00008C & Covers Library, select “Multiple Advertiser” from the “Ad Type” pull-down menu. HELPFUL HINT: When searching for Metro Sales Events in the MCC Spec Ads Ad# N1311A00009C Teamed with headings and art from the Metro Newspaper Service, these Timely Features become even more valuable as ready-to-sell layouts! Give them to your sales department for an immediate revenue opportunity. Each month you get two options with the same themed subject, with different articles, so you can sell the directories as campaigns for multiple runs while keeping your readers engaged. Metro Sales Events are located in the MCC Spec Ads & Covers Library, searchable by keyword or ad file name. 24 NOVEMBER PRIME CUTS ’13 Add some flavor to a favorite holiday side dish The holiday season often finds homeowners playing host to friends and family visiting from out of town. While the holiday dinner often draws the most attention, guests need to eat breakfast as well. Holiday hosts who want their overnight guests to start their days off on the right foot should consider the following recipe for “Potato and Arugula Omelets” from Betty Rosbottom’s “Sunday Brunch” (Chronicle Books). Dinner is often a focal point of holiday celebrations. Thanksgiving dinner, for example, is something many people look forward to all year long. But just because holiday dinners are a beloved tradition for many families, that does not mean home cooks cannot experiment in the kitchen come the big day. Those who want to add some flare to a favorite side dish may want to consider the following recipe for “Jammin’ Roast Potatoes” from Helen Willinsky’s “Jerk From Jamaica” (Ten Speed Press). Potato and Arugula Omelets Serves 2 Jammin’ Roast Potatoes Serves 4 to 6 Tasty omelets for overnight holiday guests 21⁄2 tablespoons unsalted butter 1 ⁄2 tablespoon olive oil 4 ounces red-skinned potatoes, scrubbed but not peeled, cut into 1⁄2-inch cubes Kosher salt Freshly ground black pepper 4 eggs 1 ⁄8 teaspoon cayenne pepper 8 cups arugula, stems discarded and leaves cleaned, dried and coarsely chopped* 1 ⁄2 tablespoon balsamic vinegar 6 tablespoons grated Gruyére cheese 1. Heat 1⁄2 tablespoon of the butter and the olive oil in a medium, heavy frying pan set over medium heat. When hot, add the potatoes and sauté, stirring often, until light golden and tender, 8 minutes. Remove from the heat and season with salt and pepper. (The potatoes can be prepared 1 hour ahead; leave at room temperature. Reheat, stirring, over medium heat.) 2. Whisk the eggs in a mixing bowl and season with a good pinch of salt and the cayenne. Place the arugula in another mixing bowl and toss with the vinegar. Place the Gruyére and the potatoes each in separate bowls. Have ready a ladle for adding the egg mixture to the pan. 3. Add 1 tablespoon to a 9-inch frying pan, preferably nonstick or seasoned cast iron, set over medium heat. Swirl the butter so that it coats the bottom of the pan. When it is hot but 3 1 1 1 5 1 not smoking, ladle half of the eggs into the pan and stir with the back of the fork until they start to set but are still quite liquid on the top, 30 to 40 seconds. With the fork or a nonstick spatula, lift an edge of the omelet and tilt the pan to let some of the uncooked egg mixture run underneath. Repeat this two or three more times, working your way around the pan until the eggs are cooked but remain moist on top. 4. Sprinkle half of the potatoes, then half of the cheese, and finally half of the arugula over the eggs. Let the mixture cook until the cheese begins to melt and the arugula wilts only slightly, 30 seconds. Using a nonstick or metal spatula, fold the omelet in half and slide it onto a plate. Repeat to make another omelet. 5. Serve each omelet as soon as it is prepared. * You can use regular or baby arugula, but the former provides a more intense flavor. PC13B729 World class cuisine in the comforts of home Few chefs have experienced the worldwide notoriety of Tetsuya Wakuda, widely considered Australia’s finest and most original chef. In his long-awaited first book, “Tetsuya” (Ten Speed Press), Wakuda shares his stories and recipes, including the following recipe for “Warm Salad of Veal Sweetbreads with King Prawns.” Warm Salad of Veal Sweetbreads With King Prawns Serves 4 8 1 8 11⁄2 4 8 2 ounces veal sweetbreads tablespoon white wine vinegar king prawns, peeled tablespoons grapeseed oil asparagus, angle cut into 3 pieces green beans, halved fresh shiitake mushrooms, sliced Wakame (see note below) Salt and pepper All-purpose flour for dusting Mixed mesclun leaves Sauce 5 fluid ounces veal stock 1 tablespoon port 1 ⁄2 tablespoon Banyuls vinegar or sherry vinegar 1 ⁄2 teaspoon finely chopped shallots Salt and pepper A dash of walnut oil Garnish 2 tablespoons peeled, seeded and diced tomato 1 tablespoon julienned parsley Baby watercress Chives, cut into 3⁄4-inch lengths Wash the sweetbreads to get rid of the blood. Place in a saucepan with cold water, a punch of salt and tablespoon of vinegar, and bring to a boil over medium heat. (Do not put in boiling water.) Cook 15 minutes or until cooked, then refresh under cold water. Drain and set aside. Butterfly the prawns and remove the digestive tract. Score the prawns on a slight diagonal along the inside length. Pat dry the sweetbreads and break up into bite-sized pieces. Dust lightly with flour and brown in 1⁄2 tablespoon of the grapeseed oil. Once cooked, set aside. Very lightly dust the prawns with flour and cook in the same frying pan in another 1⁄2 tablespoon of the grapeseed oil. 5 3 2 1 1 pounds potatoes medium red onion, cut into 1 ⁄4-inch slices medium yellow onion, cut into 1 ⁄4-inch slices red bell pepper, seeded, deribbed, and cut into 1⁄4-inch pieces cloves garlic, minced habanero or serrano chili, seeded and minced tablespoons vegetable oil tablespoons Dry Jerk Seasoning (see box) tablespoons hot sauce teaspoon freshly ground black pepper teaspoon salt Scrub the potatoes and dice into 1⁄2inch cubes. Place the diced potatoes in a bowl and cover with cold water, and let them soak for about 20 minutes. Drain the potatoes and spread them out on a towel to let them dry a bit. Slow cooking has become popular for a variety of reasons. Many busy men and women have embraced slow cooking because it allows them to begin cooking dinner in the morning and then, when they arrive home at night, a flavorful dinner is ready for the whole family to enjoy. Another growing dietary trend is the gluten-free diet. Though the gluten-free diet isn’t for everyone, such a diet does allow those with diagnosed intestinal issues to enjoy some of their favorite foods without the fear of getting sick. Those who want to enjoy slow cooking but need to eat a gluten-free diet may want to consider the following recipe for “Dijon Pork Roast With Brandied Mushroom Sauce” from Kimberly Mayone and Kitty Broihier’s “Everyday Gluten-Free Slow Cooking” (Sterling). 2 1 Warm Salad of Veal Sweetbreads With King Prawns www.met rocreativeconnection.com 1 1 2 2 1 1 ⁄4 ⁄4 2 1 1 1 2 tablespoon onion flakes tablespoon onion powder teaspoons ground dried thyme teaspoons salt teaspoon ground Jamaican allspice teaspoon ground nutmeg teaspoon ground cinnamon teaspoons sugar teaspoon coarsely ground black pepper teaspoon cayenne pepper teaspoons dried chives or green onions Mix together all the ingredients. Store leftover seasoning in a tightly closed glass jar. It will keep its pungency for more than a month. Preheat the oven to 350 F. Place the potatoes in a bowl with the onions, bell pepper, garlic, and chili, and toss them with the vegetable oil to coat. Mix the dry jerk seasoning, hot sauce, black pepper, and salt with the potatoes. Pour the potato mixture onto a baking sheet and spread out evenly. Put in the oven and, after 20 minutes, turn the vegetables. Continue baking for another 20 minutes, or until the potatoes are lightly browned and crisp (if they aren’t, continue baking and check them every 10 minutes). Remove from the oven, scrape into a serving bowl, and serve hot. PC13B730 Enjoy gluten-free slow cooking Dijon Pork Roast With Brandied Mushroom Sauce Serves 6 Season with a pinch of salt and pepper. To make the sauce, combine the veal stock, port, vinegar, and shallots. Bring to a boil, adjust the seasoning to taste, then add the walnut oil. Take off the heat. Sauté the asparagus, beans and mushrooms in the last of the grapeseed oil. Season with salt and pepper. To serve, place the wakame on the base of the plate and some mesclun leaves on top. Add the prawns and sweetbreads, then the vegetables. Top with the tomato, parsley, watercress, and chives, and drizzle over a little sauce. Note: Use fresh wakame, which comes packed in salt. Put the wakame in a strainer and rinse, then cut into the size required. Run the wakame under hot tap water for a few seconds — the color will brighten. Rinse in cold water and squeeze dry. Dried wakame is probably more readily available. To prepare, put the seaweed in a bowl of cold water and drain immediately. Allow to sit for 10-15 minutes. Feel the wakame: it should be soft. Do not soak in water or it will melt. PC13B728 Dry Jerk Seasoning Makes 5 tablespoons 2 1 11⁄2 1 ⁄2 1 ⁄4 3 1 2 1 ⁄2 1 1 ⁄2 ⁄4 1 ⁄4 2 1 tablespoons quick-cooking tapioca leek, halved lengthwise, washed well, and thinly sliced tablespoons butter teaspoon minced garlic pounds sliced white mushrooms teaspoon kosher salt teaspoon ground black pepper tablespoons good-quality brandy 21⁄2-pound boneless pork loin roast tablespoons Dijon mustard tablespoon olive oil teaspoon gluten-free seasoning salt teaspoon dried thyme teaspoon dried rosemary teaspoon dried oregano tablespoons heavy cream Finely chopped parsley for garnish 1. Sprinkle the tapioca and leeks into the slow cooker crock; set aside. COPYRIGHT-FREE EDITORIAL CONTENT 2. Warm the butter in a large nonstick skillet over medium heat. When hot, add the garlic, mushrooms, salt, and pepper. Cook and stir mushrooms for about 10 minutes (they will give off a lot of liquid and brown up nicely). Add the brandy and cook about 2 minutes. Transfer the mushroom mixture to the crock in an even layer. Do not stir. 3. Place the pork into the crock on top of the mushrooms. 4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the mustard, olive oil, seasoning salt, thyme, rosemary, and oregano. Use a pastry brush or the back of a spoon to coat the top and sides of the pork with the mustard mixture. Cover and cook 8 hours on low, or 4 hours on high. 5. Transfer the pork to a plate. Scrape away any mushrooms from the bottom of the pork and return them to the crock. Tent the roast with foil and let it rest 10 minutes before slicing. 6. Stir the cream into the mushrooms and sauce. To serve, spoon the sauce over top of the sliced pork. Garnish with parsley, if desired. Note: For a dairy-free variation, replace the butter with olive oil and omit cream from the recipe. Technique tip: Keeping kitchen knives sharp is important for a couple of reasons. First, it makes work easier and neater. For example, part of the pork tenderloin is covered with a tough, pearly membrane called the silverskin, which should be trimmed off before cooking. The sharper your knife, the neater the trim job will be (and the less waste you will have). Secondly, sharp knives are actually safer than dull ones. Sharp knives slice through things easily, so you don’t need to put much pressure on the knife in order to make it cut. Pushing a dull knife through food, on the other hand, can result in slippage and cuts. Whether you sharpen your own knives or take to a cookware or knife store to have the job done, it’s a good idea to keep your knives sharp all the time. PC13B731 www.met rocreativeconnection.com NOTE: This ad has been specially designed to help you promote Holiday Gift Guide to your advertisers. NOTE: This ad has been specially designed to help you promote Holiday Gift Guide to your readers. Ad# N1311A00002C Ad# N1311A00003C NOTE: This ad has been specially designed to help you promote Giving Back to your advertisers. NOTE: This ad has been specially designed to help you promote Giving Back to your readers. Ad# N1311A00004C Ad# N1311A00005C Access promotional ads and cover designs, in color or black & white, in the Spec Ads & Covers Library of MetroCreativeConnection (MCC). These ads are designed as PASS 2-column size widths based on a 1.833 inch column. 519 Eighth Avenue, New York, NY 10018 Voice 800.223.1600 • Fax 212.967.4602 www.metrocreativegraphics.com Copyright © 2013 Metro Creative Graphics, lnc. • 519 Eighth Avenue • New York, NY 10018 • (800) 223-1600
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