2015 Holiday Gift Guide

Transcription

2015 Holiday Gift Guide
2015 Holiday Gift Guide
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Kingston, PA
570.288.3147
2 Thursday, November 26, 2015
2015 Holiday Gift Guide
Times Leader
Alex and Ani
www.ValentinesJewelry.com | 2465-2 SR 309 Hwy. Dallas, PA | [570] 675 6945
HOLIDAY HOURS:
Mon-Fri 10am - 8pm | Sat 10am - 5pm | Sat 10am - 5pm | Sun 12am - 5pm
2015 Holiday Gift Guide
Times Leader
SHOP LOCAL
Northeastern Pennsylvania is filled with
locally owned shops that offer a variety of
gift items for everyone. Here’s a quick list of
local shops and items.
Local meats satisfy
your favorite carnivore
Wild Pennsylvania Beef Jerky & Cheese
Shop, 258 Wilkes-Barre Township Blvd.
offers a variety of locally made jerky.
Former baseball player and outdoor
television personality Alan Probst
combined his love of outdoors and desire
to provide healthy high-quality products
and can satisfy anyone’s palate with an
array of smoked jerky including beef,
boar, ostrich, venison, turkey, elk, alligator,
buffalo and kangaroo. Look for sweet
flavors of honey and spicier varieties like
jalapeno and teriyaki Don’t forget to check
out the selection of Wisconsin cheeses.
Michael Mootz Candies
Made locally in Hanover Township, Michael
Mootz Candies has something for anyone
on your list. From Cherry Cordials to Peanut
Butter Meltaways, Michael Mootz Candies
will meet any need. Choose from an already
assorted pack, create your own or pick out
lots of one kind. Check out what’s available
at michaelmootzcandies.com or stop in
their shop at 1246 San Souci Parkway.,
Hanover Twp.
Village Pet
Supplies &
Gifts
There is a
complete
supply of
holistic pet
foods and
treats at this
local shop. The
shop carries
quite a few
things for the
animal lover,
including
T-shirts, car magnets, coffee mugs and
other novelties. The above mug would be
perfect for any dog lover. Price: $13.99.
Hanover Mall, San Souci Parkway, Hanover
Township.
Art supplies, frames and fine art
Marquis Art & Frame has a variety of
options for the artist in your life.
With the flagship store at 122 S. Main
St. in Wilkes-Barre, Marquis Art & Frame
offers art supplies for all mediums, frames
and a collection of fine art by local and
regional artists. There’s another Marquis
Art & Frame shop at 515 Center St.,
Scranton. The Wilkes-Barre location hosts
an extensive selection of art materials for
Thursday, November 26, 2015
all ages and skill levels, a custom framing
department where you can choose from
more than 1,000 styles of frames, a firstfloor art gallery and art-consulting service
for your home or business. Call 570-8230518 or visit marquisartframe.com for
more information.
Record players,
vinyl from Musical Energi
Many diehard music fans say music sounds
better on vinyl. Fortunately, Musical Energi,
59 N. Main St. in Wilkes-Barre, has you
covered. With a vast supply of both new and
used records and record players, Musical
Energi is a one-stop shop for all things
music. A used SL-Q3 Technics record player
can be had for $199 with tax. Couple it with
Tame Impala’s newest record, Currents, for
$29.99.
Wilkes-Barre specific items
Bee Hive Gift Shop in the Midtown Village,
41 S. Main St. has Wilkes-Barre-themed
gifts like Ella B. soy candles with scents
like Wilkes-Barre Christmas, Believe, Bee
Hive and Queen Bee. Find a brass, undated
Wilkes-Barre Christmas ornament or a
book “Santa Is Coming to Pennsylvania,”
with a mention of Wilkes-Barre. Wall
decorations include popular local names
such as The Diamond City, Hotel Sterling,
Public Square, King’s College, Wilkes
University, Market Street Bridge, Kirby
BLACK FRIDAY DOOR BUSTERS
FOR THE WHOLE FAMILY
Save now: $200 on a season pass to
Montage Mountain with a
seasonal rental or $100 retail purchase
• Gift Certificates
• Free Layaway
• Major Brands
• Unique Apparel
• State of The Art Service and Repair Facility
• We specialize in seasonal and daily rentals
200 Montage Mountain Road (across from PNC Field)
Phone: 570.343.4700
Monday, Wednesday, Thursday 11-7
Friday 11-5 • Saturday 10-5 • Sunday 12-5
Closed Tuesday
3
Our staff are skiers and riders. We know what will
make you more comfortable, fashionable, and safe!
2015 Holiday Gift Guide
4 Thursday, November 26, 2015
Park, Susquehanna River and more. Prices
range from $9.99 to $29.99.
of jewelry and accessories made from
recycled materials like bullet casings,
compact discs and spools.
3 Sisters
3 Sisters, at 182 United Penn Plaza,
Kingston, has everything from Pandora
jewelry to handmade creations. There are
charms, clothes and other wares including
hand-forged sterling silver pieces inspired
by the earth. Prices on the sterling silver
jewelry range from $48 to $282.
Earth and Wears
Earth and Wears,
68 Main St.,
Dallas, offers a
unique collection
of gift items made
by local artists.
The shop features
handmade
jewelry, pottery
and one-of-a-kind
merchandise
such as Mosaic Bottle Lights and metal
wire figurines. The lights, made by Jenna
Lee Kapral, are made from repurposed
bottles and stained glass. When the bottles
are plugged in, lights inside illuminate the
colors. Bottle sizes and colors vary. Prices
range from $45 to $75.
Cool gifts for a good cause
For a unique gift and to support a worthy
cause shop at Bloom, inside Duffy’s Coffee
House, 306 S. State St., Clarks Summit.
Maryann Corey sells handmade beaded
jewelry, artwork and scarfs starting at $5.
Proceeds benefit The Portable Playhouse,
which travels to hospitals and cancer
centers to provide a bedside beading
program for women and children. The kiosk
is open from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Wednesday
to Sunday.
Hels’ Bells Handmade
Helen “Hel” Kaucher has made things since
she was a child. An older Kaucher now
sells handmade
cards through
her online shop,
Hels’ Bells
Handmade
(www.aftcra.
com/helsbells),
along with
necklaces,
earrings and
other pieces
Unique Polish pottery
Polish Pottery Passion Store has more than
500 imported dishes, jars, trays, teapots
and other pottery accessories.
Owner Melody Fuller obtains pottery
from four factories in the Polish city of
Boleslawiec. All pieces are signed by artists
Times Leader
inspected facility. One seven-pound box
makes 29 pounds of base mix. Just add
water and a meat of choice for protein.
Available for $58.99 at Stately Pet Supply,
515 South State Street, Clarks Summit.
and contain the mark of the producing
factory. They are dishwasher- and
microwave-safe and coated with a fired
glaze to prevent fine cracks.
The store is at 109 E. Broad St., Hazleton.
Hours vary, so people interested in
browsing should call her cellphone at
570-956-4746. Information about her
merchandise can be viewed at www.
polishpotterypassion.com.
Little versions toy around
with the big thing
Wilcox Farm Supply has all your mini
tractor needs including toy models from
Ford and John Deere International. Shelves
are stocked
with Ertl
die-cast,
scaled-down
versions of
tractors and
implements
that plow
fields, bale
hay and do
the dirty
work on farms. Stop by Wilcox Farm Supply
between 8:30 a.m. and 5 p.m. Monday
through Friday or from 8:30 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Saturdays or 10 a.m. to noon Sundays
at 300 State Route 1002, Tunkhannock
Township.
Hand crocheted
mason jar cozy
This locally made
product is perfect for
someone who loves
smoothies and green
drinks. Available at
The Willow Tree Shop,
725 South State
Street, Clarks Summit in two sizes: small,
$13, and large, $17. With a variety of colors
to choose from, it’s almost like purchasing
a customized gift.
The Honest Kitchen dog food
If dogs are family, why feed them
something you wouldn’t give yourWILKES-BARRE
kids?
Treat your favorite pooch to “good,GOLF
healthy,
CLUB
1001 FAIRWAY DR.,
WILKES-BARRE, PA
wholesome food for dogs,” made with
472-3590
human food grade ingredients
an8:00AM
FDA
EARLY BIRD in
BEFORE
WEEKDAYS - $20
16
Mon. - Fri. $
CART &
Super Early Bird
GREENS FEE BeforeSpecial
7:00am
wine bottles and are $24.50. Plymouth
artist Sean Brady’s metal wire figurines are
available, too. The wire figurines highlight
hobbies and sports, such as a skier or sky
diver and have a whimsical edge.
Essential Beauty Treatments
Salon & Spa gift certificate
Essential Beauty Treatments Salon & Spa,
located at 210 N. State St., Clarks Summit,
uses organic and natural products. Gift
certificates are available in any amount and
can be purchased at the front desk or over
the phone 570-586-0700.
Lisa B.
woman’s
merino
wool and
cashmere
mix socks
These
stylish and
comfortable
socks come in a vast selection of colors,
patterns and styles, ranging in price from
$22 to $32. Made in the USA. One size fits
all. Available at Sole to Soul, 535 S. State
St., Clarks Summit.
Mercantile Hillside
The Lands at Hillside Farms, 65 Hillside
Rd., Shavertown, is known for its milk and
ice cream, but there are many treasures
lurking inside the Mercantile Hillside.
The country store houses a variety of
merchandise from socks made from Alpaca
fleece to wine scented candles. Rewined
candles are handmade candles from
Charleston, South Carolina. The candle wax
is blended with scents to mirror Merlot or
WILKES-BARREand poured into repurposed
Chardonnay
GOLF CLUB
1001 FAIRWAY DR.,
WILKES-BARRE, PA
472-3590
EARLY BIRD BEFORE 8:00AM WEEKDAYS - $20
16
22 CLUB
22
WILKES-BARRE
GOLF
Mon.
Fri. $$
Mon. --Thu.
SENIORSWILKES-BARRE
55+
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$
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Super Early Bird
Special
Greens FEE
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12 pm)
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7:00am
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AFTER 11 1001 FAIRWAY DR.,
WILKES-BARRE, PA
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Get 5 rounds of golf
1001 FAIRWAY
DR.,
WILKES-BARRE,
PA • 472-3590
SENIORS
55
$
SAT & SUN472-3590
$
AFFORDABLE QUALITY COLLECTIBLES
(after
EARLY 1PM)
BIRD BEFORE 8:00AM WEEKDAYS - $20
CALL AHEAD
TEE TIMES
Mon.
- Fri. FOR $
(Excludes Holidays and Tournaments)
Snowglobes
Harley Davidson
Chess Sets
Snowbabies
Disney
sat
& SUN
sun
SAT &
(after 1PM)
2 pm)
Greens
CALL AHEADFee
FOR TEE(After
TIMES
www.wilkes-barregc.com
GREENS
FEE BeforeSpecial
7:00am
Music Boxes • Tea
Handcrafted
Jewelry
Handmade
Ornaments
season, bag$ of tees, logo balls,
22repair tool.
ballmark, and
(Excludes Holidays and Tournaments)
SENIORS 55+
WEEKDAYS
AFTER 11
$
80019339
- Must Present Coupon - Valid Up To Four Players
Exp. 9-1-12
www.wilkes-barregc.com
89
$
SAT & SUN
(after 1PM)
30
CALL AHEAD FOR TEE TIMES
(Excludes Holidays and Tournaments)
weekdays only.
- Must Present Coupon - Valid Up To Four Players
Exp. 9-1-12
www.wilkes-barregc.com
56 Dallas Village Shopping Center
(570) 675-6507
Mon. - Sat. 10-8 • Sun. 12-5
yeoldeclockshoppe.com
80697720
Santas • Angels
Dragons • Fairies
Jewelry Boxes
Nutcrackers
Jim Shore
Religious Gifts
- Must Present- Must
Coupon
- Valid
Up To Four Players
Present
Coupon
Super Early Bird
Exp. 9-1-13
Exp.
9-1-12
+
WEEKDAYS
AFTER 11
...or, the same great gift pack with the
5 anytime any day 2016 passes for just
$
129
New life for
old shirts
Vicki Prekel from
Northmoreland
Township takes
plain men’s
shirts — usually
something
new or gently
used — removes
the collars
and cuffs and
replaces them
with touches of bright new material, all for
a stylish effect.
Prekel is selling them through craft shows
and word-of-mouth for $12 each. Her
phone number is 570-836-3013.
A nifty wine holder
Daughter’s Dream Shopping and Retail
in Berwick is a great place for crafty
knick-knacks or
antique items.
There are wine
holders made
of steel and
springchords,
with one in the
shape of a man
riding a bicycle.
Daughter’s
Dream is open
from 10 a.m. to
6 p.m. Tuesday
through Friday,
8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturdays at 125 W. Front
St., Berwick. They can be reached at 570759-2697.
2015 Holiday Gift Guide
Times Leader
Stocking stuffers
Don’t leave these
little, yet important,
gifts to the last minute
Saving this portion of your list for last can
result in gifts that seem less thoughtful and
more like an afterthought. Try starting with the
stocking stuffers this year, working your way to
the bigger packages under the tree.
The North Face E-tip Gloves
Available in a variety
of colors and sizes for
all, these stylish and
touchscreen-friendly
gloves will not disappoint.
They range in price from
$17.99 to $45 at Dicks
Sporting Goods and online
at dickssportinggoods.
com.
Portable USB device battery charger
Anyone who lives life on
the go will appreciate
a portable USB battery
charger. The iFrogz
GoLight Mobile Phone
Battery Charger, available
for $29.99 at Target,
doubles as an LED
flashlight and charging
station for any USB-powered device. Sleek and
small, it fits in a pocket, purse or briefcase.
The Tube Wringer
The Tube Wringer makes “paste, not waste,”
by squeezing up to
35 percent more out
a toothpaste tube
(or other products
that come in tubes),
according to the
product description
on uncommongoods.
com, where it sells for $24.95.
S
With so many gift-giving options,
it can be hard to figure out what
qualifies as the perfect gift. This
year, thanks to “Star Wars: The
Force Awakens,” there are a few
items that’ll make you the best
gift-giver ever. Here’s a list of some
of the hottest holiday gift items
for 2015.
BB-8 App-enabled Droid
BB-8, the new spherical droid
from “Star Wars Episode VII,”
has been brought to life by toy
company Sphero. The droid has
three modes: the first allows
you to interact with it via voice
commands, the second lets it free
roam like a Roomba and the third
sends a holographic message to
those with the companion app a
la the one carried to Obi Wan from
Princess Leia in Episode IV. $150
at Best Buy.
The Magic Opener
This As Seen on TV
product is your go to
device to open pretty
much anything. It opens
water bottles, soda
cans, soup cans and
beer bottles to name
a few. Plus, it’s got a
magnet on the back so
your giftee can have
easy access to it any time.
Quill pen and ink set
In a technology-driven world, sometimes it can
be nice to take a step back and do something
old-fashioned. For the writer, artist or historian,
slip this gift of nostalgia into a stocking. The
Feather Pen Set from the National Gallery of
Art, Washington, is available for $25 at shop.
nga.gov.
Balance Board
Gift this mini, self-balancing
scooter, or driftboard, and you’re
bound to be the favorite. It’s all
the craze right now. The person
receiving this gift won’t ever need
to take a step again. He or she
will just balance on the board and
cruise wherever he or she wants
to go. These scooters begin at
$300 and can reach up to $500.
Protection plans are offered at
most places for an additional cost.
Stop by the kiosk at the Wyoming
Valley Mall and try one out.
Darth Vader
You won’t go wrong with a Star
Wars gift this year, and fortunately
there are many on the market.
This animatronic interactive Darth
Reach Elizabeth Baumeister at 570-704-3943
or on Twitter @AbingtonJournal
the Moment Tack In
pur of
c.
Jewelry, Clothing, Unique Gifts & More
Breyer Horse
Christmas
Collectibles
By Sarah Haase
[email protected]
Buy them a drink
Sometimes you have to think outside the
stocking. Ever think of dropping a small bottle
of their favorite alcoholic beverage in that
stocking? For the kids and non-drinkers, add a
bottle or can of their favorite soft drink instead.
Find Those Special Gifts for the
Horse & Rider on Your List
3485 SR 309 Hwy. • Dallas, PA 18612
Phone: (570) 674-Ride (7433)
5
Hottest gifts for 2015
Gift cards
Who wouldn’t want a little extra money to
spend at a favorite store or restaurant? A
gift card can add a thoughtful touch to your
stockings. Sam’s Club offers multi-packs at
a discount, such as this Outback Steakhouse
four-pack, valued at $85 and available from
samsclub.com for $71.98 with free shipping.
By Elizabeth Baumeister
[email protected]
Thursday, November 26, 2015
Gift
Certificates
Available
Vader would make a great addition
to any fan’s toy box or display
shelf. With a push of a button,
Darth Vader waves his light saber
and talks to the user. This figure
starts at $109.99 and can be
purchased at Toys R Us or on sites
such as eBay and Amazon.
Apple Watch
While not new to the market, the
Apple Watch is still one of the
most coveted accessories. Tell
time, receive notifications, emails
and texts, monitor your heart
rate, send a text, measure daily
activity and send your heartbeat to
another watch user. The wearable
technology is customizable and
comes in different styles. Watches
are available at locations such
as Target, Amazon and Best Buy.
For prices (starting at $349) and
additional styles, visit apple.com.
Que Powerbag
Sure, it can hold books, a
sweatshirt and a laptop, but
this Que Powerbag has built-in
Bluetooth speakers, a full-sized
internal USB port and is shock
resistant to protect portable
electronics. Prices start at $95 and
can be purchased from Amazon.
Smart coffee
Coffee. It’s what gets some of us
moving in the morning. With this
Mr. Coffee Smart Wifi-enabled
10-cup coffee maker, mornings
just got easier. Schedule or adjust
brew time so coffee is always
fresh and hot whenever you want
it. Download the free WeMo App
and you’re ready to go. Wrap it
with some specialty coffee and
you’re good to go. Price starts at
$100 and it’s available at Macy’s,
Walmart and Amazon.
A balance board?
Yes, please.
An Apple Watch is sure
to make anyone smile
this holiday season.
A smart coffee maker
for the coffee lover.
The droid
everyone is
talking about
this season.
10 Clubhouse Drive, Drums,
PA. 18222 . 570-788-5845 Ext.1.
sandspringsgolf.com
A smart
backpack,
with
built-in
speakers
and USB
port.
6 Thursday, November 26, 2015
2015 Holiday Gift Guide
Times Leader
DO-IT-YOURSELF GIFTS
By Jeric Foulds and Sarah Haase
[email protected]
[email protected]
Paint Chip Calendar
Calendars are at every retailer’s
gift display. They are filled with
pretty pictures and themes to
please anyone. But if you’re a
bargain shopper, we found the
perfect alternative. For less than
$10 gift a calendar that will last for
many years.
Supplies: 12” x 16” picture frame,
35 paint chips, adhesive, scissors,
dry-erase marker, posterboard
Cut posterboard the size of the
frame. Cut 35 paint swatches to fit
your frame. We used a seven-color
paint swatch from Walmart. The
size of each color fit the frame
perfectly for a grid of seven days by
five weeks. We removed the top and
bottom color and set them aside
using the middle five colors for
our calendar. Arrange and glue five
paint chips for each day of the week
to your poster board. Cut smaller
rectangles from the discarded chips
to use as labels for each day. Place
your posterboard in the frame.
Attach the glass to the frame and
label the month and days with a dry
erase marker.
Tie eye glass case
A practical gift that can
practically be created for free if you
have a closet full of unused ties, or
for less than $2 with a thrift store
tie.
Supplies: Tie, scissors, thread,
fastener
Place the necktie backside up
and place a pair of glasses on top.
Fold the tie over the glasses and
cut the tie 1 inch beyond the top of
the glasses. Fold the extra 1 inch
cut edge toward the back of the tie
and stitch in place. Remove tags
or labels and any stitching that
prevents you from sliding glasses
inside the open end. With the tie still
facing back side up, fold the narrow
end of the tie up toward the wide
pointed end. Stitch together each
side, careful not to go through the
front. Fold the top of the tie over to
make a flap and add a fastener.
Vase
Dress up an old vase with spray
paint, add a bouquet of flowers and
you have a tasteful hostess gift or
eye-catching centerpiece.
Supplies: Vase, painters tape,
metallic spray paint
Clean the vase with rubbing
alcohol. Tape off areas to remain
clear, being sure to press down
all edges of the tape. Spray a few
light coats of paint until the vase is
completely covered. Allow paint to
dry. Remove tape.
Wood Slice Ornament
Add a favorite family photo to
your tree or use as a package tie-on
to spruce up any gift.
Supplies: Photo, wood slice, pen,
Mod Podge, paint brush, drill and
small bit, string
You can find wood slices at most
craft stores, or create your own if
you have wood at home.
Place a wood slice on top of your
photo and trace the area you want
on your ornament. Cut around the
photo, cutting slightly inside your
line so a wood border will show
around your photo. Brush a layer
of Mod Podge on your wood slice.
Place photo and press down. Brush
a thick layer of Mod Podge over the
photo. Drill a small hole on the top
of your ornament and add a piece
of string to hang. A small i-hook
can be screwed in to the top of the
ornament, too.
Clothespin Trivet
This clever craft is prefect
for a child to create (with a
little assistance) for a parent or
grandparent. An everyday object like
a clothespin becomes a stunning
kitchen trivet in a few steps. If the
recipient has a particular color
scheme in his or her kitchen, add a
coat of paint to match.
Supplies: 40 clothespins (metal
removed), wire, drill
Disassemble 40 clothes pins.
Drill a small hole about ½ inch
from the top in each. Tracing the
flat end of the clothespin on heavy
paper, cutting it out, and putting
a small mark where you want the
hole on each pin and using this as
a template will make it easier to
line up the hole on each clothespin.
Thread the clothespins on to the
wire, each facing the same direction.
Pull the wire into a circle and twist
the ends to secure. Add a small
amount of glue between each pin to
hold in place.
Mason Jar gifts
Last year’s recipe for Santa’s
Favorite Cookies was a huge
success! This year, we are expanding
our mason jar collection with two
recipes.
Oatmeal & Chocolate Chip
cookies are another easy recipe you
can fit in a jar, along with a seasonal
favorite drink – hot chocolate.
Oatmeal and
Chocolate Chip cookies
Supplies: 3/4 c flour, 1/4 tsp
baking soda, 1/2 tsp salt, 1 tsp
cinnamon, 1 1/2 c quick cooking
Candy
Cookie
Tray
oats, 1/2 c chocolate chips, 1/2 c
brown sugar, 1/4 c white sugar
Combine flour, baking soda, salt
and cinnamon. Layer dry ingredients
in a mason jar. Dress up the jar and
attach a label with instructions to:
Add 1 egg, ½ c butter, 1 tsp vanilla.
Bake for 12 minutes at 325 F.
Paint Chip Calendar
Hot Cocoa Mix In A Jar
Supplies: 6 c Instant Nonfat Dry
Milk, 1 1/2 c granulated sugar, 1 c
plus 2 tblsp Baking Cocoa, 1 1/2 c
miniature marshmallows (optional),
4 pint jars
Combine dry milk, sugar,
cocoa and marshmallows. Pour
into 2-quart jar. Decorate jar and
attach a note with remaining steps:
Measure 1/2 c cocoa mix into mug.
Stir in 1 cup hot water or milk.
Mason Jar Mixer
Here’s an adults only take on a
mason jar present.
Supplies: 1 mason jar, 1 Nip of
liquor, 1 can of soda or juice, 1 straw,
ribbon
Place your can of soda or juice
in the mason jar. Tie the Nip around
the neck of the jar and attach a
straw and gift note.
Notepads
Work in an office where lots
of white paper is tossed into the
recycling bin? Here’s a crafty and
useful way to repurpose some of it.
Supplies: Sheets of white paper,
binder clips, rubber cement, razor
knife or papercutter, card stock,
photographs or other sturdy paper
Stack your paper as evenly as
possible and secure with binder
clips. Measure out the size of the
notepad you want and cut the
white paper accordingly. Once cut,
add the photo or card stock that
will be the cover of your notepad.
Cover the front and back with scrap
paper. Secure with binder clips. Put
a generous coat of rubber cement
along one of the sides of the note
pad and let it dry. Add a second coat
then let that dry. Remove the clips,
then remove the scrap paper.
Candy Cookie Tray
Supplies: 1 pound of peppermint
candies, parchment paper and a
baking pan.
First line a cookie sheet or
cake pan which parchment paper.
Unwrap the candies and place on
the parchment paper. Bake in a 350
degree oven for about 8 minutes.
When the candies have melted into
the desired shape, remove from the
oven and let cool before touching or
removing from the pan.
Once cool, place some cookies
on top of the candy tray and serve.
Tie eye glass case
Clothespin Trivet
Oatmeal and
Chocolate chip cookies
Hot Cocoa Mix In A Jar
Wood Slice Ornament
Vase
Mason Jar
Mixer
2015 Holiday Gift Guide
Times Leader
YOUNG at heart
By Mary Therese Biebel
and Gene Axton
[email protected]
[email protected]
The best thing about getting your youngat-heart friend a hula hoop is either 1)
challenging that person to show you
what he or she can do or 2) taking a turn
yourself.
Hula hoops
We found
hoops artfully
decorated
with fabric
($40) at
Shambala
cultural gifts
store, 41 S.
Main St., Wilkes-Barre and believe they
could serve as wall art hen your friends
aren’t busy swiveling their hips in them or
letting you share the fun.
Ho Tra
lid in
ay s M
s B ak
ett e
er
Cuppa’ Jesus
Speaking of fun — and puns — we’re
guessing the folks who designed the
Presents of Mind coffee mug titled “Jesus
Shaves” wanted to show they believe the
Lord has a sense of humor when they
created the kind of mug where the picture
changes when you pour a hot beverage. You
add the coffee, tea or hot chocolate, and
Jesus’ beard will vanish, only to reappear
when the mug cools. $12.95 at Circles
on the Square, 9 Public
Square, Wilkes-Barre.
Slush Mug
This 10-ounce beverage
holder promises to turn
almost any beverage into
a dessert within minutes.
Thursday, November 26, 2015
The instructions seem fairly simple, too.
Just keep the Slush Mug in the freezer until
you’re ready to cool down, and then watch
as your pour a drink into the mug and it
thickens into a tasty slush. Cost: $9.91.
Available at www.jet.com.
Wilkes-Barre themed chocolates
For friends
who have
retained
their
youthful
Reach Mary Therese Biebel at 570-9916109 or on Twitter @BiebelMT
ALLEN NYLON PADDED
RIFLE SLING
MOSSBERG MAVERICK
BOLT ACTION RIFLE
SALE
With Swivels
299.99
14.99
SALE
BUCK MODEL 110
FOLDING HUNTER KNIFE
ALLEN NYLON PADDED
RIFLE SLING
REMINGTON RIFLE
BUCK MODEL 110
REST
FOLDING
HUNTER
KNIFE
$
99
Sale
299
Sale $1499BENCH
Sale $3499
With Bag
With Sheath
With 3X9-40mm Scope, 270, 308 Cals.
80629426
Layaway Now
Available
Most Scales &
Brands Available
Pendants • Earrings • Bracelets
HUNTING SEASON SALE
MOSSBERG MAVERICK
BOLT ACTION RIFLE
Buy • Sell • trade • repair
OFFICIAL NHL
PENGUIN JEWELRY
Witty magnets
And, for friends with a satirical sense
of humor, consider a “Duck and Cover”
magnet with such sentiments as “I cook
with wine. Sometimes I even add it to the
food” or “The first rule of parenting. Never
negotiate with terrorists.” Adding to the
fun, the slogans are usually accompanied
by pictures that appear to be models from
the 1950s. ($4.25 each at Circles on the
Square).
With 3x9-40 mm Scope,
270, 308 Cals.
GaloRe
30 West Main st. PlyMouth Pa, 18651
RetroN 5
RetroN game consoles attempt to make
retro gaming convenient by meshing a
variety of old school machines into one
system. The latest iteration, RetroN 5,
comes in two colors (the SNES-esque
grey/purple mix or classic black) and plays
games from NES, Famicom, SNES, Super
Famicom, Genesis, Mega Drive), Game Boy,
Game Boy Color and Game Boy Advance.
The RetroN can be found at various
retailers, including Amazon, 1Up Games in
Forty Fort and FYE in Wyoming Valley Mall.
Prices start at $128 (newegg.com).
HUNTING
SEASON$ SALE
$
Rob’s Trains
Store Hours are: Wed, Thurs, Friday 12 til 7pm; Sat & Sun 10-6pm Credit Cards Accepted
Rob (Owner) 570-814-7363 • Devin (Manager) 570-371-9420
USB Cassette
Player
Ion’s USB cassette
player allows
its user to rip
cassettes to MP3s
or take their
listening on the go. Awesome Mix Vol. 1 sold
separately. $50 on Thinkgeek.com.
taste for sweets, Sugar Plum Chocolates
has crafted candy bars wrapped in pictures
of the Wilkes-Barre skyline taken from a
photography by Linda Rowe. You’ll find
them for $4.49 at Circles on the Square in
Wilkes-Barre.
Coloring books
On the other hand,
if your friend would
consider the mug
sacrilegious, it
might be better
to stick with
something safer,
like a coloring
book. Adults of all
ages are saying,
hey, coloring is not just for kids. To help
someone on your gift list engage in this
relaxing pastime, consider a sophisticated
coloring book accompanied by 12 colorful
pencils. We spotted that for $12.99 at
Boscov’s in Wilkes-Barre, alongside a $9.99
coloring book that comes without the
pencils.
SALE
With Bag
With Sheath
With Swivels
34.99
$
REMINGTON RIFLE
BENCH REST
NIKON BUCKMASTER
3x9 40 MM RIFLE SCOPE
SALE
49.99
$
Wood N stream camo/
leather hunting boots
800 Gr. Thin, Reg. $159.99
$
Sale
Sale WOOD
149 N STREAM
Sale
11999
CAMO/
NIKON49
BUCKMASTER
$
99
$
99
HUNTING
BOOTS
3X9 40 MM RIFLERailroadLEATHER
sock
ALLEN HOTSEAT CAMO
Gr. Thin, Reg. $159.99
SCOPE 40% Wool Hunting800Sock
Lansky standard knife
Sharpening System
$ 99
Sale $27
Reg. $6.99
119.99
99 per $
Sale $5SALE
Sale $499 each
pair
149.99
SALE
Sale ends
November
29,LICENSE
2015, orAVAILABLE
while supplies last
2015
HUNTING
2015
HOURS:HUNTING
Mon.-Thurs. 9LICENSE
to 6 • Fri. 9 toAVAILABLE
7 • Sat. 9 to 6
HOURS:Sale
Mon.Thurs.
9 toor6While
• Fri. 9
to 7 • Sat.
Ends
11-14-15
Supplies
Last9 to 6
Available in Silver or Gold
Order these special items by December 10th
2607 Memorial Highway Dallas, PA 18612 | 570.675.5872
Monday - Friday 10am-9pm | Saturday 10am-7pm | Sunday 12pm-6pm
Ope
Sun 11 n
/29
10-4
JS
SPORTING
GOODS
254 Wilkes-Barre TWP. BLVD., Route 309, W-B
HUNTING, FISHING & ARCHERY SPECIALISTS
s r
r
TM
7
254 WILKES-BARRE
TWP. BLVD.,
570-824-4610
ROUTE 309, W-B
Layaway & Gift
570-824-4610
Cert. Available
2015 Holiday Gift Guide
8 Thursday, November 26, 2015
Eat, drink and be merry
By Matt Mattei
[email protected]
The culinary world has a lot to offer,
which makes Christmas time special
for those who take pleasure in the finer
points of eating and drinking. Here is
a list of gift items for the foodies and
cocktail connoisseurs on your shopping
list, featuring a few establishments
right here in Northeastern
Pennsylvania.
Monthly themed clubs
For the wine and cheese lover, visit
www.monthlyclubs.com. Starting at
$34.95 per month, you can have two
bottles of wine delivered to the home
of your friend or loved one. You can also
sign up for combination and custom
plans. Adding the cheese of the month
club starts at $34.95 per month as well,
and you can select which months to
have the gifts delivered.
Red wines
There is a lot out there for the
discerning wine enthusiast, but here are
two suggestions for fans of red wine.
Chimney Rock cabernet sauvignon
is a highly-rated red yearly and can
be found at Fine Wine & Good Spirits
for $54.99. For a more affordable
bottle, pick up 7 Deadly Zins zinfandel,
normally $12.99 but is on sale this week
for $10.99. Whatever your taste, www.
finewineandgoodsprits.com has a good
online selection.
iGourmet
Located in West Pittston, igourmet
can provide a gift basket of culinary
delights. From cheeses and cured
meats to fine wines, international
delicacies and chocolates from every
place imaginable, www.igourmet.com
allows you to customize your gift basket
and have it shipped to your residence
of choice in a decorative basket with a
personalized greeeting. Baskets range
from $79.99 to $159.99 with a createyour-own option for $19.99.
White wines
For white wine connoisseurs, Fine
Wine & Good Spirits carries the
well-balanced Santa Margherita pinot
grigio for $22.99 and, for a cheaper but
just as tasty alternative, try Chateau
St. Michelle dry riesling, rated one of
the top sips for your money by Wine
Spectator several seasons ago, for only
$10.99.
Meats
From gourmet burgers to filet mignon,
Omaha Steaks has every delectable cut
of beef the carnivore on your shopping
list desires. Four 5-ounce filets will
cost you $49.99, and will be shipped
to the address of your choice, and four
10-ounce New York strip steaks cost
$69.99. Visit www.omahasteaks.com
for the full list of available cuts, prices
and specials, including combos for
under $50.
Whisky and spirits
If whiskey is your drink of choice, FW
& GS has all your traditional American,
Irish, Canadian and Scotch whiskeys.
For those with a taste for scotch,
Laphroaig 10-year-old single malt
scotch is available in store for $49.99.
An affordable, yet high-quality bourbon
comes in the form of Eagle Rare, master
crafted in the Kentucky bourbon style
for $28.99.
Groceries to your door
Take grocery shopping out of the
equation for the home chef on your list.
At www.hellofresh.com, you can sign up
your friend or loved one to have farm
fresh ingredients delivered to his or her
doorstep. You can purchase three meals
per week for two people for $39 and a
promotional offer will get you $30 off
your first box. There are even recipes
and cooking instructions for less
experienced chefs.
Beers and other brews
Beer snobs have a new place to find
quality brew with the opening of
Sabatini’s Beer Bar & Bottle Shop in
Exeter. With hundreds of American
micro and macro-brews and specialties
from around the world, the beer lover
in your life will be satisfied whether
they prefer a traditional lager, an India
pale ale or something from the Trappist
tradition of Belgium. Prices vary by
brand and quantity, but the draft
selection can be viewed at http://www.
sabatinis.com/#!grid/c1vno. Visit the
shop at 1901 Wyoming Ave. for the full
bottle and can selection.
Chocolates
What would the holidays in
Northeastern Pennsylvania be without
Getrude Hawk chocolates? With
three locations in Wilkes-Barre, one
in Kingston and one in Pittston, you
can find all of your holiday favorites
throughout the Wyoming Valley. Visit
www.gertrudehawk.com for a full
selection of assorted chocolates,
Smidgens, non-chocolate confections
and gift baskets. The site offers five
varieties of chocolates for $40.
The tools for the perfect drink
Target has what you need for the
cocktail afficionado in your life. Shakers
come in a variety of styles on www.
target.com, and none are priced over
$32. To accompany the new shaker, the
site offers an array of cocktail glasses. A
set of six Strauss double old-fashioned
glasses costs $44.99 and a set of six
Burma rocks glasses by 10 Strawberry
Street costs $24.
Caramel apple baskets
For the caramel apple lover on your list,
consider a Mrs. Prindable’s gourmet
caramel apple basket. Holiday baskets
start at $39.99 and the company’s
website includes an array of assorted
chocolates and non-chocolate
confections. For a full selection of
Mrs. Prindable’s treats, visit www.
mrsprindables.com.
Colored Margarita Salt
Dell Cove Spice Co.’s Etsy shop has a
variety of colored margarita salts to add
flare to drinks at parties.
A variety pack of eight tins use sea
salt with a hint of food coloring. Colors
included in the kit are red, pink, orange,
yellow, green, teal, blue and purple.
Each tin holds approximately 3 ounces.
The kit provides enough salt to rim 100
margaritas.
Cost: $24.95. Available at www.etsy.
com.
Gin and Tonic Gourmet Popcorn
A tin of popcorn has perhaps become
one of the most over-gifted items of the
holidays — especially for the foodie in
your life or the person from you choose
for the office grab bag whom you don’t
really know well. This item steps up the
popcorn gifting game a notch or two by
trading the tin for a dose of gin.
This product is made using 5 percent
real gin and 5 percent real tonic. Oh,
and it’s gluten free, too.
Cost: $10.59. Available at www.firebox.
com.
Reach Matt Mattei at 570-991-6651 or
[email protected]
A BOX OF CHOCOLATES!
The perfect holiday gift.
The Gateway Shopping Center
Edwardsville 570-270-6344
Monday - Saturday 10 am - 7 pm Sunday 12 pm - 5 pm
Inside The Laurel Mall, Hazleton 570-455-6345
Monday - Saturday 10 am - 9pm Sunday 12 am - 5 pm
51 N. Laurel Street, Hazleton 570-455-6341
Belgian Style Truffles Available
November 27- January 6
80696806
The Complete Candy Store
• 1/2lbSingleFlavor-Buttercreams,Peanut
ButterCups,SeaSalt,Caramels&More
• 1/2lbAssorted
• 1lbAssortedMilkChocolate
• 1lbAssortedDarkChocolate
• 1lbAssortedMilkorDarkChocolate
*AlsoAvailablein11/2lbs.or2lbs.
Free Pie with $50 gift card purchase and guests
will receive a Bounce Back Coupon for 30% off a
Family Meal Valid January 2-January 20
Times Leader
2015 Holiday Gift Guide
Times Leader
FOR HER
By Geri Gibbons
[email protected]
Everyone has a special woman in his or her life.
Whether she’s a wife, mother, sister or best friend,
women require a bit more attention than men. Here are
some ideas for gifts that women might like.
Baja Joe Pullover
For those who want to be both trendy and toasty, this
stylish offering
will be much
appreciated
under the
tree. Colorful
enough to be
fashionable, but
comfy enough
to be casual,
this “Baja Joe”
unisex pullover
might find its
way to a ski
lodge after a
long day or to
the mall with
the kids. Made
of organic
material,
it would be especially appreciated by the ecologyminded or the hippy-at-heart. Retailing at between
$28 and $38, the nifty item is available at Shambala in
downtown Wilkes-Barre, South Main Street, or online at
Amazon.com.
A real page
turner
For the
woman
who has
everything,
put a new
book on her
shelf. Books
appreciated
by women
include
everything from inspirational offerings such as Liz
Curtis Higgs’ “The Women of Christmas: Experience
the Season Afresh,” to cookbooks like Ree Drummond’s
“The Pioneer Woman Cooks: Food from My Frontier,” to
historical books such as Eric Metaxas’ “Seven Women:
And the Secret of Their Greatness,” Don’t forget to
think outside the box and consider classic titles such
as Charlotte Bronte’s “Jane Eyre” or D.J. Lawrence’s
“Sons and Lovers.” A multitude of titles for women of all
ages, persuasions and interests are available at Barnes
and Noble, Wilkes and Wilkes-Barre Township locations,
as well as online at barnesandnoble.com.
COUNTY WEAPONS
Layaway
avaiLabLe
With a Pizza Perfect
Gift Certificate
&
WE BUY GUNS!
KIDS! ENTER TO WIN
In Our 9th Annual Holiday Giveaway
We are the ONLY distributor on
FIRING REAL LIFE CANNONS
Drawing Held
Friday, December 18th
in the Northeast.
Ages 12 or younger are eligible to win.
1 Entry Per Person.
NEW STOCK
COMING DAILY!
HOURS
Thurs. 10am
10am - -6pm
Thurs.
6pm
Fri. 10am
10am --8pm
Fri.
8pm
5688 State Route 309 Sat.
Sat. 10am
10am --6pm
6pm
Monroe Twp. PA 18618 Sun.
Sun. 10am
12pm --5pm
5pm
Win a Pocono Steam Berkshire Train Set.
570-519-9011
New Stock Coming
Daily!
Scarlett’s Secret
Stash
| Antiques and Collectibles
Books, Furniture, Dinner ware, Vases and so much more! Stop in today to find your treasure.
80696805
Open 1st
Day of Buck
Season 11/30
4am - 10am
Free Coffee
& Donuts
The gift that keeps on giving
A monthly subscription is a wonderful thing. Choose
from a variety of gifts, sent monthly, to the woman in
your life, reminding her you love her all year along. Ipsy,
for example, will have cosmetics delivered to her door
throughout a 12-month period. Go online and find the
gift right for her at www.mysubscriptionaddiction.com.
This gift will make the season and the sentiment last.
Give them what they
want this year...
Stocking a Selection for ALL
your BIG BOOM needs
9
CoverGirl has
your back if
the lady in your
life is a fan. Its
newest themed
line boasts
mascaras,
lipsticks and
nail polishes of
good and evil.
The good side
will get you a
stormtrooper’s
black and white
accents while evil will get that lady-like look of a golden
C-3PO. The line gives iconic characters a feminine and
contemporary spin.
THE HOLIDAYS ARE COMING
A NEW KIND OF GUN SHOP
INTERNET SALES WELCOME
students, trendy
professionals or
mothers toting
newborn essentials.
Purses, satchels,
wallets, diaper
bags and other
items suitable for
carrying essentials
in style are available
in a burst of color,
shapes and sizes.
They’re all a useful
accessory that can
mirror an outfit or
a season. Purses
start at about $49
and are available
at Dundee Gardens, Sans Souci Parkway, Hanover
Township. To find other retailers in your area, access
the Vera Bradley store locator at www.verabradley.
com/custserv/store_content.jsp.
A New Kind of Gun Shop.
One that
caters to the needs, and wants Reach
of the
gun lovGeri Gibbons at 570-991-6117 or on Twitter @
Star Wars essentials
TLGGibbons
The hottest gift theme this year isers.
Star Wars and
Located on State Route 309 in Beaumont
A purse of a different color
Vera Bradley has something for every woman in
your life with backpacks — perfect for college
Wyoming
Thursday, November 26, 2015
16 Carverton Rd, Trucksville • 570.696.2100
Open:Monday - Thursday 4pm - 9pm •Friday 11am - 10pm
•Saturday - 12:30pm - 10pm• Sunday- 2pm - 9pm
2015 Holiday Gift Guide
10 Thursday, November 26, 2015
Times Leader
Must-have gifts for the little ones
By Steve Mocarsky
[email protected]
50 candy molds, multiple pen
tips and gift bags specially
made to share their custom
candy creations. Retails for
$29.99. For ages 6 and up.
Requires two AA batteries
(included).
The holidays are all about making the little
ones smile. Here are a few ideas for some
gifts that will put a smile on a child’s face,
and are cool enough to keep a parent’s or
another adult’s attention.
The Dinotrux
Mega Chompin’
Ty Rux
Half-dinosaur,
half-construction
vehicle that
appeals to both
the dinosaur lover and aspiring builder.
With kid-activated lights and sounds,
your dinosaur lover can operate the large
chomping mouth, the swinging wrecking
ball tail and the massive rolling tires as he
or she creates an exciting story. There’s
even space for the included Revvit Reptool
and others (sold separately) to ride along,
expanding the possible adventures. The
toy, recommended for ages 6 and up, sells
for $59.99 at Toys ‘R’ Us and can be found
online.
The Anki Overdrive Starter Kit
Let kids take command of robotic
Supercars Skull and GroundShock on one
of eight epic battlefields - that’s futuristic
racetracks, for oblivious adults. Kids can
challenge their friends in a variety of game
modes or go head-to-head with
AI controlled ‘Commanders’ in a quest to
become champion of the Anki Overdrive
Tournament. Included in Parents Magazine
‘Best Toys of 2015’ for ages 5 and up.
Retails for
$149.99.
J.J., My Jumpin’
Pug Pet
This little one is
more than just an
interactive toy,
he’s a sweet, plush
pug who wants
to be your child’s
best friend. With
a built-in light sensor, the cuddly pup will
jump up and raise his paws to play as your
child waves at him. Pat him on the head,
and he’ll promptly sit down and make cute,
happy barking sounds. Requires four AA
batteries. J.J. retails for $39.99. For ages
4 and up.
Star Wars
The Force is strong with these
new Star Wars interactive
toys. The new animatronic
Star Wars line from
Thinkway Toys is the most
technologically sophisticated
Star Wars toy line ever
created. They move, they
talk and they’re sure to put
a smile on your little kiddo’s
face. Available at Toys ‘R’ Us,
these toys start at $109.
The Real Cotton Candy Maker
Kids can make a sugary treat using The
Real Cotton Candy Maker. The wand lights
up as they stir their concoction, creating
real cotton candy from regular or flavored
sugar. They can serve their sweet surprises
to friends in the three paper cones and
break down the unit for quick cleanup. The
light-up wand lets them create a sweet
We have the
coolest
models
forbeenthusiasts
of all ages and skill levels.
treat
that glows.
Touted to
easy and
Check
out
our
great
selection
of
kits,
safe to use, with quick cleanup by breaking guaranteed to bring
unit. Retails We
for $39.99.
For agesa full line of paints, fittings,
you hoursdown
of the
enjoyment.
also stock
10 and up.
Planes, trains, automobiles and more…
books and tools for all of your finishing touches.
Candy Craft Chocolate Pen Kit
This fun toy for the young chocolatier, the
Candy Craft Chocolate Pen Kit, lets them
draw one-of-a-kind delicious shapes made
with real confectioners’ chocolate, write
messages that melt in your mouth and fill
special candy molds with an incredible
level of detail and design. The kit includes
everything needed to make several artistic
treats, including a half pound of premium
confectioners’ chocolate in multiple colors,
Excellent Care of Your Most
Important Garments at The
Holiday and All Year Long
Hours: Mon-Fr 7:30 – 5:30; Sat 8:00 – 1:00
Reach Steve Mocarsky at 570-991-6386
From Planes to Trains & Everything In Between!!
Find that Special Gift At...
• Dry Cleaning
• Alterations
• Wedding Gown
Preservation
16 Maffet St. Plains 570-824-3202
Super Special!
Looking For Something Unique
This Holiday Season?
THE HOBBY SHOP
at Walter’s Hardware
80696822
Ikos 3D Building Toy
Creator Pack
Everyone knows Lego is a
popular item with creative
kids who like to build
things, but let’s face it,
they’re pretty square - or
rectangular. For those
creative tykes who might
like to throw a curve in
the creative efforts, Iko
Toys offers the Ikos 3D Building Toy Creator
Pack. The plastic pieces snap together
in a simple manner allowing you to build
everything from spheres to complex
creations. The toy is advertised to foster
STEAM education and sells for $19.99.
And if you have a bunch of little builders to
buy for, you can get 10 packs for $150 at
ikotoys.com - a savings of 25 percent on
each one.
EST. 1948
Just off Coal Street Corner N. Welles St & Walter’s Way
Wilkes-Barre • (570) 823-1406
2015 Holiday Gift Guide
Times Leader
Thursday, November 26, 2015
11
Cater to their tastes
By Matt Mattei
[email protected]
Hard-to-shop-for people need gifts they
can use or enjoy on a short timeline rather
than items they can put in a closet and
forget about. Think about what your picky
friend or relative enjoys and buy those
usable, edible, readable and expiring items
to coax them into enjoying your present
Wilkes-Barre/Scranton Penguins tickets
are available for games throughout the
regular season, which ends April 17,
2016. Tickets can be purchased at www.
mogehansunarenapa.com, starting at $19
per seat.
Gift Cards
Gift cards for www.amazon.com, www.
etsy.com or Lowe’s would be thoughtful
whether your friend or loved one is into
home entertainment, craft goods or home
improvement. Amazon gift cards start at
$10 and go to $2,000. Etsy gift cards range
from $25 to $250, and Lowe’s gift cards
may be purchased for any amount between
$5 and $500.
Everyone loves music. Pinpoint what your
giftee especially likes than buy an album.
Tickets to a performance at a local venue
is sized for all.
The gift of show
The F.M. Kirby Center features several
notable theater productions and musical
performances, including the NEPA
Philharmonic. “Madame Butterfly,” the
celebrated three act opera, God Save the
Queen, a tribute to Queen and Straight No
Chaster, the star a capella group, will all be
at the Kirby in 2016. Tickets for most shows
start around $30 and can be purchased at
www.kirbycenter.org.
For the sports enthusiast, a pair of tickets
to a game is a great option.
The Penguins
For the sports fan in your life, don’t forget
Music
Think about what your hard-to-shop for
someone loves to listen to and buy that
band’s, composer’s, singer’s new record.
Vinyl is in and album art makes the gift
much better. If they like alternative rock,
pick up the Dead Weather’s new album
“Dodge and Burn” for $21.98. It’s a
Jack White project and features him on
drums and vocals. Visit Musical Energi in
downtown Wilkes-Barre or one of three Joe
Nardone’s Gallery of Sound locations in
Wilkes-Barre, Hazleton or Dickson City to
pick up new tunes.
For the reader
John Grisham’s “Rogue
Lawyer” and Andy Weir’s
“The Martian” are among
the New York Times’ bestselling fiction titles. “Rogue
Lawyer” sells for $17.71
in hardcover at Barnes &
Noble and “The Martian”
can be purchased for
$9.09 in paperback. For
non-fiction, consider
Pulitzer Prize-winning
author Stacy Schiff’s
“The Witches,” which
chronicles the Salem
Which Trials and can
be had for $18.99 in
hardcover. For the lover
of classics, Charles
Dicken’s “A Christmas
Carol” is a great
holiday read and the
Dover Thrift edition
only costs $7.18 in
hardcover.
Dine local
Grico’s restaurant
in Exeter, Arcaro
and Genelle in
Old Forge and
Ruth’s Chris Steak
House at Mohegan
Sun Pocono are
all fine dining
establishments
that will allow
you to purchase
a gift card in any
denomination.
A night out on the
Visit www.
town is always
gricosrestaurant.
sure way to please
com, www.
someone on your
arcaroandgenell.
shopping list.
com or https://
giftcards.
ruthschris.com to treat your hard-toshop for person to an excellent dining
experience.
Buy it. Wrap it. Drink it.
Fine Wine & Good Spirits stores have
a wide spectrum of bottles for anyone
wishing to be cheerful over the holidays.
Try Shafer merlot for $54.99. Any lover
of the varietal will enjoy the Napa Valley
produced 2011 vintage. Visit your local beer
outlet for a winter variety pack like Magic
Hat’s Winterland mix, which includes a not
quite pale ale, a hoppy brown ale, an amber
lager and a vanilla stout for $37.29.
Donate to charity in the name of that hard to shop for someone.
Magic Hat Winterland variety pack is a great option for someone who likes to drink his or
her presents.
Relax and enjoy
A day at the spa will allow your friend
or loved one to relax, maybe enough to
be easier to buy for in the future. The
Woodhouse Day Spa in Kingston offers a
variety of gift card options, ranging from
There’s nothing like a little relaxation for
the stressed out friend in your life.
fixed dollar amounts from $50 to $1,000 to
designing your own personal care package.
Visit https://kingston.woodhousespas.
com/purchase-gift-card for details.
For a good cause
Consider donating to a needy family of
a worthy cause in your giftee’s name. By
visiting https://donate.worldvision.org,
you can choose from charities ranging
from poverty in America to hunger in other
countries with many worthy causes in
between.
Star Wars Engraved Growler
The world is hyped for the Dec. 18 release
of “Star Wars Episode VII: The Force
Awakens.”
This
personally
engraved
64 ounce
beer
growler
will have
any beer
drinker
who loves
“Star Wars”
feeling
out of this
world with joy. Buyer can choose from any
Star Wars character, including Princess
Leia, Han Solo or Yoda.
Cost: $26.99. Available at www.etsy.com.
For the growler with 2 pint glasses and beer
bottle opener, cost is $49.99.
Reach Matt Mattei at 570-991-6651 or
[email protected]
For more gift guide
content, visit
timesleader.com/giftguide
2015 Holiday Gift Guide
12 Thursday, November 26, 2015
For the gamers
By Jimmy Fisher
and Robert Vanderveken
[email protected]
[email protected]
From Sony’s PlayStation to Microsoft’s
Xbox to Nintendo’s Wii U to hand-held
devices, this holiday promises no shortage
of some of the best games to fill your
desired needs.
Star Wars
Battlefront
With “Star
Wars VII:
The Force
Awakens”
hitting movie
theaters Dec.
18, fans can
reintroduce
themselves to the franchise with this
game. “Star Wars Battlefront” is an action
game played from either a first-person or
third-person view as players can switch at
any time. Players traverse planets from the
Star Wars universe, such as Endor, Hoth,
Tatooine and the newly-introduced planet
of Sullust and can travel by air and landbased vehicles, such as speederbikes and
AT-ATs. Battles are planet-based, restricting
players from exploring space. The game’s
weapons, characters, gear and abilities are
customizable. Available for PC, PS4, Xbox
One.
Fallout 4
Fans of the
“Fallout” series
have waited
several years
for the release
of “Fallout 4.”
Two hundred
years after a
nuclear war,
Fallout 4 is set
in a postapocalyptic
Boston, where the player character
emerges from an underground bunker
known as a Vault. With an optional first- or
third-person view, players can explore
Fallout 4‍’s open world setting allowing
nonlinear gameplay. Available for PS4, Xbox
One, PC.
Uncharted: The
Nathan Drake Collection
With three games on one disc, the
“Uncharted” series has made the jump to
PlayStation 4 after being one of the focal
gaming franchises of PlayStation 3. The
series follows
explorer
Nathan Drake
as he travels
to various
countries
in search of
treasures
while dodging
bullets and
bad guys. The
games include
“Uncharted:
Drake’s
Fortune,” Uncharted 2: Among Thieves” and
“Uncharted 3: Drake’s Deception.” Available
for PS4.
Halo 5: Guardians
The award-winning “Halo” platform is back
with a vengeance with the release of “Halo
5: Guardians.” The game follows its central
character,
Master Chief,
and is a firstperson shooter
with players
experiencing
most
gameplay
through
the eyes of
a playable
character.
The camera
Times Leader
switches to a third-person view for some
cinematics and gameplay sequences.
Available for Xbox One.
Call of Duty: Black Ops III
The controls and shooting are top notch
and there is a great multiplayer mode with
hundreds of players to compete against
online. Available for PS3, PS4, Xbox 360,
Xbox One, PC.
Disney Infinity 3.0
Disney Infinity is one of the leaders of the
Toys-to-Life craze. Many new additions to
combat, racing and toy box modes. All of
the new additions make this one of the best
Star Wars games ever released. Available
for PS3, PS4, Xbox 360, Xbox One, Wii U, PC
Call of
Duty
Black
Ops 3
Mario Maker
Mario is a great family-friendly series and
now you can make your own levels and
share them with your friends, family or
people online. You can switch between the
different eras of Mario game designs, the
possibilities are almost endless. Available
for Wii U.
Rare Replay
Rare Replay might be the best value in
gaming. 30 games for $30, it has almost
all the Rare games going all the way back
to the NES gaming system. Rare replay
is a loving tribute to 30 years of gaming
history with remastered visuals and some
upgrades to the saving and controls
making this one of the best gaming
collections out there. Available on Xbox
One.
Batman Arkham Knight
The final chapter of the Rocksteady
Arkham games and the best Batman
game ever made. Arkham Knight is the
Disney
Infinity
3.0
Rare Replay
Batman Arkham Knight
biggest game in the series includes the
introduction of the Batmobile. If you are
into superheroes this could be the best
comic book game every created. Available
for PS4, Xbox One, PC
Reach Jimmy Fisher at 570-704-3972
or on Twitter @SD_JimmyFisher. Reach
Robert Vanderveken at 570-704-3954 or at
[email protected].
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2015 Holiday Gift Guide
Times Leader
The geek
By Elizabeth Baumeister
[email protected]
It doesn’t take much to make geeks
happy — a T-shirt with a reference to a
book or movie they enjoy, a toy or gadget
representing one of their fandoms or the
latest game or DVD from their favorite
series. Here are a few ideas that can be
perfect for geeks in just about any walk
of life.
POP! vinyl figures
From Star Wars, to
American Horror Story, to
Futurama, Funko makes
collectible POP! vinyl
figures for just about
everything, with more than
150 licenses, such as Lucas
Films, Marvel, Hasbro,
The Walking Dead, Game of Thrones, DC
Comics, NBA, Sanrio and Disney. Available
at Gamestop, Target, Walmart, FYE and
Barnes and Noble, they average in price
from around $8 to $15. A small but fun gift,
these can also work as stocking stuffers.
Thursday, November 26, 2015
13
There’s a little geek in all of us, so enjoy wrapping
these presents and get ready for a light-up smile
LEGO Doctor Who set
Available
Dec. 1 at the
recommended
retail price of
$59.99, this gift
is “bigger on the
inside!” It may
be marketed
for children age
10 and up, but this toy will make Whovians
of all ages happy – whether 10 or 110 (you
never know). Includes the TARDIS and its
consul room, the 11th and 12th Doctors,
companion Clara Oswald, a
Weeping angel and two Daleks.
You just might want to warn
the recipient not to blink while
unwrapping it.
Star Wars Death Star
USB Wall Charger
$29.99 on thinkgeek.com, the
ultimate website on which to
shop for your geeky friends
whether they are into Star
Wars, Star Trek, Doctor Who,
Minecraft, The Big Bang Theory,
Marvel, Game of Thrones, all of the
above or something else. Next time
your friend’s cell phone battery is
low, all he or she will need to do is
tap into the power of their death
star charger, which lights up when
plugged into a grounded outlet.
This charger features two USB
ports: 2.1A and 1.0A. A second
version is also available, in the form
of R2-D2. After all, what better way
to charge your Droid but with your
favorite droid?
Marvel Legendary
Game
Give the gift of superpowers.
$59.95 in store or online
at barnesandnoble.com,
Legendary gives players age 14
to 114 the opportunity to take
on the roles of Marvel heroes,
including the Avengers and
X-Men. Players team up to
defeat the evil likes of Magneto,
Loki, Dr. Doom or Red Skull.
DC Comics Super
Villains Poker Set
Is he or she a DC rather than
Marvel fan? Featuring artwork by
Kevin Nowlan, this set includes two
decks of cards, chips, dice and a
crime syndicate dealer chip. Offered for
$99.95 on barnesandnoble.com.
“They say never bet against the house, but
when you have the World’s Evilest Super-
AA-B2B_2015-SOPHY-3.222x5.indd 2
Villains on your side, taking money is easy
pickings,” reads the product description.
Reach Elizabeth Baumeister at 570-7043943 or on Twitter @AbingtonJournal
10/27/15 4:17 PM
2015 Holiday Gift Guide
14 Thursday, November 26, 2015
Gift Guide for Students
By Mary Therese Biebel
[email protected]
them for themselves, Shambala
owner Dory Marino said. $12.95.
When we recently asked a college
student what she would most
appreciate as a holiday gift, she
paused and uttered one word:
“Money.” But, if grandparents and
aunts and uncles want to give
their favorite student something
else, here are a few suggestions
— any of which, by the way, could
be accompanied by a check.
School spirit
While you’re thinking about
keeping your student warm,
consider a Champion pullover
made of Eco-Fleece, which is a
“super soft fabric made from
recycled materials.” You can find
a selection emblazoned with the
names of either King’s College or
Wilkes University at the Barnes
& Noble college bookstore in
downtown Wilkes-Barre for
$34.98.
Magnets
No matter how busy your student
is with tests and papers, there’s
always time to laugh. So why
not give them a few chuckles
with a magnet shaped like a
foaming beer mug or Wicked
Witch of the West legs from the
“Wizard of Oz?” Those items are
among many whimsical offerings
from Paperhouse Productions,
available at Circles on the Square
in downtown Wilkes-Barre. ($3.75
each)
Dream catchers
Another way to add a touch of
panache to a dorm room is a
colorful dream catcher, crafted
in Indonesia and available at
Shambala cultural gifts store in
the Midtown Village in Wilkes2X526$19.95.
SWEB
Barre.
BUCK at
Literary wonders
As long as you’re at the Barnes
& Noble bookstore, consider
a literary gift. The Edgar Allan
Poe fan on your shopping list
might love the touch of the
macabre in a “Tell-Tale Heart” kit
from runningpress.com, which
contains “a pulsating heart.”
$9.99.
Think safety
If a most practical little gift is
more to your liking, Grumpo’s
Warehouse on Race Street in
Wilkes-Barre has such useful
items as a combination lock
for2X528
$1.99,
which your favorite
SWEB
student might need for securing
his or her valuables in a locker
room or on a bicycle chain.
Mukluks
Stationery
While you’re admiring the many
Finally, in this era of texts and
imported gifts from around the
instant messages, don’t you
world at Shambala, surely you’ll
sometimes crave a hand-written
see the basket full of mukluks,
(printed
never
$ is OK if they99
a kind of boot and legwarmer in
$
99
learned cursive) letter? To
one, that were woven in Ecuador.
encourage your student to send
While this variety isn’t ideal
you one, why not present him or
New for
&inclement
Used Snowthowers
Available
weather, they’ve
her with some stationery that is a
proven popular with local college
treat to look at? Back at Barnes &
students who have been buying
Noble, we found a large selection,
899
999
Times Leader
Hot dog toaster
An Eco-fleece
pullover
A dream catcher
from Indonesia
including one with an especially
eye-catching “Maps of the
Imagination” theme. $13.99
Nostalgia Hot Dog Toaster
Who says toasted hot dog buns
can only be enjoyed at summer
cookouts? Not the maker of
the Nostalgia Hot Dog Toaster.
This toaster is a solid quick
meal solution that features
an adjustable heat controller,
removable hot dog basket,
removable drip tray for easy
clean-up and mini tongs. Anyone
who loves hot dogs is likely to
express their gratitude over this
simple, yet useful gift. Cost:
$19.99. Available at www.target.
com.
Reach Mary Therese Biebel at
570-991-6109 or on Twitter @
BiebelMT
Mukluks from Ecuador
Paperhouse Productions magnets
‘Maps of the
Imagination’
stationery
‘The
Tell-Tale
Heart’ kit
includes
a heart
that will
pulsate.
An
traditional
combination
lock
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2015 Holiday Gift Guide
Times Leader
Thursday, November 26, 2015
15
For the furry friend, or friend who loves animals
By Mary Therese Biebel
[email protected]
When you realize the cookies Melody Fuller
of Nescopeck bakes for Jagger’s Doggy
Deli are made with whole wheat flour, rolled
oats, flaxseed meal and natural honey, or
pizza sauce, spices and cheese, or peanut
butter or organic dried blueberries, you
might want to eat them yourself.
Actually if you want to, you could. Her
ingredients are human-grade, sourced only
in the United States, and approved by the
Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture.
This holiday season, a dozen or so of her
handmade cookies could become the
perfect gift for your pet loving friend, or
your best friend the dog.
Hair of the Dog
Fuller’s seasonal cookies include designs
shaped like reindeer faces and holiday
lights with paws on them, priced at $2
each, and candy canes and Santa faces for
$1 each. Her treats are available at Hair of
the Dog, 109 E. Broad St., Hazleton, 570459-0669 or 570-956-4746 or through
www.jaggersdoggydeli.com. She does
make periodic deliveries to the WilkesBarre area.
place, so they might appreciate the Kitty
Shack, which is a tube-shaped cat bed that
can be unzipped to make a flat bed or stay
zipped to give the cat a cocoon-like effect.
Boscov’s Department Store in Wilkes-Barre
has them for $19.99.
The Purrfect Arch
You know how
cats like to rub up
against all sorts of
edges? The Purrfect
Arch will give them
a bristle-lined
archway to do
just that, and the
bristles will collect
some loose fur in
the process, keeping it off your furniture
and rugs. This little “self-groomer” is
available at Boscov’s for $19.99.
Give your dog a bone
And if you want
to treat your dog
to a big natural
bone, Jagger’s
Doggy Deli has
some femurs in
the 7 to 8-inch
range, for $6.
The Kitty
Shack
Let’s not forget
our feline
friends. Lots
of cats enjoy
snuggling into
a cozy little
My Spy Birdhouse
Bird lovers, how great is this? The My Spy
Birdhouse is a three-sided house that
attaches with suction cups to a window
in your home. Birds can enter through a
little round hole and you can watch them
build their nest through your window pane.
Available at Boscov’s Department Store
for $9.99.
admiration for horses would be to give a
piece of equine art, perhaps a handsome
piece like the carved wooden statue of a
horse we spotted for $42.95 at Shambala
cultural gifts
store in WilkesBarre’s Midtown
Village.
A riding experience
We’re guessing that while tons of our
readers love horses, most do not have
one to call their own. So why not take
your animal-lover friend horseback riding
as a holiday gift? Deer Path Stables on
Route 940 near White Haven
is open year round and caters
to inexperienced and first-time
riders. A one-hour ride costs
either $36 or $39, depending
on how you pay. Reservations
are strongly suggested and gift
certificates are available. Call
570-443-4431.
Animal art
Another way to celebrate
your animal-loving friend’s
Snowman Seed
Cylinder
And let’s say
someone on
your gift list
enjoys feeding
feathered
friends who fly into their yard. The
Snowman Seed Cylinder holds a mix
that includes safflower seeds,
sunflower chips, peanuts,
cherries and blueberries. It
retails for $25.99, and you can
find many such items at Wild
Birds Unlimited in the Dallas
Shopping Center, Route 309,
Dallas.
Reach Mary Therese Biebel at
570-991-6109 or on Twitter @
BiebelMT
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16 Thursday, November 26, 2015
2015 Holiday Gift Guide
Times Leader
A Shoppes at Montage gift card is
the perfect gift for any occasion!
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