Tag Archives: Season

Ice Fishermen Prepare for New Season

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Minneapolis, MN (PRWEB) October 29, 2005

Ice fishing is the sport or ritual of catching fish with a line or spear through an aperture in the ice. The fisherman may stand or sit near the opening in the frozen water, often sheltered by a crude cabin.

Ice fishing is especially popular in Canada, Finland, Norway, Sweden, Russia, Europe, and the US. American states best-known for their ice fishing lakes and bays include Alaska, Michigan, Minnesota, Montana, and the New England states.

Equipment for the sport is especially important since the fishing itself takes place in and during a dangerously unpredictable climate/season. Practically imperative equipment minimally includes these items: a sturdy rod; a reel, preferably Micro-spinning; 4 ? 8 lb test ice-line; bait such as crappie minnows, wax worms, and fatheads; jigs, spoons, and hooks; a stool; handwarmers; needle nose pliers for manipulating hooks; a fishing license; proper identification; bobber stops with beads; an assortment of split-shot; knife or finger nail clipper to cut line; ice scoop or strainer to remove new ice as it forms; an auger to make a hole in the ice with accompanying sled; small shovel; a cell phone and an ice pick.

Amenities for the sport might include a cabin or ?fishing house,? bunk beds, food, drinks, towels, tissues, and gloves.

There are three main types of ice fishing. Brightly colored lures may be used at the end of a light rod while jigging for fish. Tip-ups, a line attached to a signal flag that ?tips-up? when a fish nibbles, allow for unattended lines and can be hand-drawn so no rod is required. Spear fishing consists of the fisherman standing over the hole with a spear attached to a line. Decoys may draw fish near enough to strike.

Shelters vary widely for ice fishing. No shelter is necessary if the weather is agreeable and protective clothing is worn. Structures are often referred to as ?shanties,? ?ice huts,? or ?ice/fish houses.? Some are portable and tent-like or plastic or wood and towed by vehicles onto the lake/bay each outing; others are permanent and sturdier. Shanty communities are not uncommon in lake areas. Permanent huts may include ?luxuries? such as cooking elements, beds, lights, heat, and chairs.

Safety is a concern when ice fishing as both winter temperatures and storms may make conditions dangerous. The ice itself is another concern as it must be at least four inches thick to support the weight of a human and 12 inches for a vehicle. Even in the coldest temperatures, ice is still affects by the current of the water below. Carbon monoxide poisoning is another risk if fishermen utilize fish house heaters while inside for long durations.

For more information, please visit http://www.icefishinginfoforyou.com

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Don’t Let a Sports Injury Keep Your Child on the Sidelines This Season

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Stamford, CT (PRWEB) May 19, 2006

NY, NY and Greenwich, CT, May 2006 ? Nearly four million youth athletes suffer a sidelining injury each year in the U.S., according to the American Academy of Pediatrics. While half of these injuries are sustained during individual activities like biking or skateboarding, roughly 25% occur while children are playing team sports like baseball, softball, and basketball. With more children playing organized sports than ever before ? 30+ million last year alone ? injury prevention, treatment and return-to-play guidelines are at the top of every coach?s ? and parent?s ? game plan this season.

?Sports injuries in children are complicated, not only by the physical nature of the injury, but by the vast developmental differential at each age, and by the variety of emotional responses each patient may have to his or her injury,? explains Kevin Plancher, M.D., a leading NY-area orthopaedist and founder of the Orthopedic Foundation for Active Lifestyles (http://www.ofals.org) ? a non-profit organization dedicated to advancements in research and education for orthopedics and sports medicine. ?Childhood sports injuries can be as simple as a sprained ligament ? or as serious as a growth-plate fracture,? Dr. Plancher notes. ?So, it is critical to prevent as many injuries as possible, and to properly recognize and treat those injuries that do occur as quickly as possible,? he adds.

Preventing Youth Sports Injuries

?Participation in organized sports benefits children?s physical fitness, social integration and self-esteem,? Dr. Plancher notes. ?But these benefits can be outweighed by the risks of injury when young athletes are unprepared, unprotected or uninformed about the game they?re playing,? he adds. To reduce the risk of injury, Dr. Plancher offers these prevention tips:


Focus on fun, learning, effort and teamwork, and not on winning or performing at a certain level. ?This can help avoid ?overuse? injuries ? which account for nearly half of all injuries to middle and high-school athetes ? that can occur when children push themselves too hard to achieve a certain level of play, or return too quickly from an injury, ? Dr. Plancher notes. Overuse injuries are particularly common in the upper extremities like the back, shoulder, elbow and wrist in young athletes, a result of the throwing motion that?s required in baseball, softball and basketball.

Gear up with protective equipment during games and practices (when 60% of injuries occur). Be sure all equipment is both appropriate for the game or practice and properly fitted for the child. ?This is as important for individual sports like biking and boarding as it is for organized sports,? Dr. Plancher advises. ?While education efforts have resulted in the vast majority of children wearing helmets during these activities, acute injuries to the wrists and elbows are still common among kids who ride bikes, skateboards and scooters without protective padding for those areas,? he adds.

Proper treatment strategies can get kids back in the game

?We can?t always rely on the emotional reaction of the child athlete to clue us in on the extent of his or her injury,? Dr. Plancher warns. ?Certain young athletes may mask a serious injury with a brave face in order to stay in the game, while others may overreact to less serious injuries due to pain and fear of additional injury.? Here are Dr. Plancher?s guidelines for recognizing and triaging kids? sports injuries:

Err on the side of caution and remove a child who may have been injured from play immediately. Coaches should be trained to recognize the basic signs of injury, including discoloration, swelling, difficulty bearing weight on the affected area, or pain. If in doubt, the child should be seen by an orthopaedist or at the local ER before he or she resumes play.

Provide ?RICE? at the first sign of injury to avoid further damage and begin the healing process. RICE stands for Rest, Ice, Compression and Elevation. Every team should have a first aid kit stocked with ice packs and compression bandages for possible sprains and strains, along with antiseptic wash and sterile bandages and tape for cuts and scrapes.

Contact a professional orthopaedist for an expert diagnosis, treatment plan and return-to-play strategy ? which will vary depending upon the severity and location of the injury, and a number of factors relating to the individual child. However, advances in treatment and technology have made it possible for children with certain injuries to return more quickly than ever to the sports they love. For example, young athletes may be able to return to play from a recent injury to the hand or wrist by wearing a playing cast such as the GE RTV-11. ?These types of casts help to stabilize the joints and protect against re-injury,? Dr. Plancher explains. ?Although most casts are prohibited from the field of play due to the potential they have to injure other athletes, the RTV-11 is acceptable because of its soft exterior construction,? he adds.

Bio:

Kevin D. Plancher, M.D., M.S., F.A.C.S., F.A.A.O.S, is a leading orthopaedic surgeon and sports medicine expert with extensive practice in knee, shoulder, elbow and hand injuries. Dr. Plancher is an Associate Clinical Professor in Orthopaedics at Albert Einstein College of Medicine in NY. He is on the Editorial Review Board of the Journal of American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons and the American Journal of Medicine and Sports.

A graduate of Georgetown University School of Medicine, Dr. Plancher received an M.S. in Physiology and an M.D. from their school of medicine (cum laude). He did his residency at Harvard’s combined Orthopaedic program and a Fellowship at the Steadman-Hawkins clinic in Vail, Colorado where he studied shoulder and knee reconstruction. Dr. Plancher continued his relationship with the Clinic for the next six years as a Consultant. Dr. Plancher has been a team physician for over 15 athletic teams, including high school, college and national championship teams. Dr. Plancher is an attending physician at Beth Israel Hospital in New York City and The Stamford Hospital in Stamford, CT and has offices in Manhattan and Greenwich, Connecticut. http://www.plancherortho.com

Dr. Plancher lectures extensively domestically and internationally on issues related to Orthopaedic procedures and injury management. During 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004 and 2005 Dr. Plancher was named among the Top Doctors in the New York Metro area and was the New York State Representative for the Council of Delegates to the American Academy of Orthopaedic surgeons. For the past six years Dr. Plancher has received the Order of Merit (Magna Cum Laude) for distinguished Philanthropy in the Advancement of Orthopaedic Surgery by the Orthopaedic Research and Education Foundation. In 2001, he founded “The Orthopaedic Foundation for Active Lifestyles,” a non-profit foundation focused on maintaining and enhancing the physical well-being of active individuals through the development and promotion of research and supporting technologies. http://www.ofals.org.

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Fresh California Peaches, Plums and Nectarines Sizzle on the Grill This Summer — Nationally Acclaimed Chef Adam Perry Lang Shares Tips for Grilling Fruit this Season

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Reedley, Calif. (PRWEB) May 18, 2007

Attention all outdoor cooks and barbecue aficionados: this summer, the hottest trend in outdoor cooking is sweet, juicy fresh fruit on the grill. Grilling California peaches, plums and nectarines heats up summer meals with juicy salsas, hearty salads and tasty kabobs, all sizzling with flavor. It’s also a healthy way to bring more flavor to summer with fresh and juicy seasonal foods.

Grilling has long been a popular pastime, and is a trend that isn’t cooling down anytime soon. According to a recent survey from the Hearth, Patio and Barbecue Association*, 34 percent of those surveyed say that they have grilling basics under their belt, while another 20 percent claim they are mere beginners. Novice and well-seasoned outdoor chefs are especially open to fresh grilling ideas from renowned pit masters. Grilling fresh fruit has long been a well-known, technique among experienced chefs. This well-established technique, both delicious and simple, is developing into a hot trend this summer – in backyards across America and restaurants alike.

“The succulence and high natural sugar content of California peaches, plums and nectarines makes them ideal for grilling,” said Adam Perry Lang, pit master and owner of Daisy May’s BBQ in New York City. “I love working with fresh stone fruit because it lends itself so perfectly to the grill, always making it a real crowd pleaser for my customers, family and friends.”

To help consumers in their pursuit of becoming kings and queens of the grill this summer, Chef Lang has shared his tips for successful grilling.

1. Always begin cooking on a clean, lightly oiled preheated grill

– If you don’t have a grill brush, try crumpling up a piece of foil and wipe vigorously across grill to remove burnt bits

2. Dry off meat, fruit or vegetables with paper towels; season and allow to sit for a few minutes; coat lightly with oil

– Steam from moisture will cool down grill and is a poor conductor of heat; oil creates barrier and prevents sticking

– When cooking meat or fruit, allow it to sit with seasoning for a minimum of 5 minutes to create “flavor crust” and lightly stain the food, particularly if using a rub high in chili powder

3. Beware of cross contamination

– Use a different set of tongs or spatula to remove barbeque other than the one(s) used to place raw product on the grill

– Use hot soapy water to clean any utensils of contamination

4. Brush food with barbecue sauce or finishing sauce during last 3 – 5 minutes of grilling over a very low heat source

– Be cautious when using sauces that contain a lot of sugar because they can burn

– If grill is too hot directly over flame, just move to your “safe spot” and cover the lid

5. Lightly brush or spray food with flavored oil or melted compound butter to prevent drying out and give last minute sheen and flavor

– Stir herbs, garlic, scallions and ginger into oil or melted butter to give an additional flavor burst

– Brushing food with oils at the end will also give your food a larger “serving window” because the thin coat of oil will slow down the drying effect of high heat

– If you are watching fat in your diet, lightly spray with olive oil and sprinkle with fresh herbs

This season, the California Tree Fruit Agreement has delicious and easy recipes for California peaches, plums and nectarines in a free brochure that is “Fresh Off the Grill.” From savory entrees to sweet desserts, these recipes utilize the best of summer’s bounty. To request a free brochure, please send a self-addressed, business-sized, stamped envelope to: Fresh Off the Grill Brochure, 400 Capitol Mall, Suite 2640, Sacramento, CA 95814. Additional recipes, nutrition information and much more can be found at http://www.eatcaliforniafruit.com.

“From breakfast to dessert, grilled California peaches, plums and nectarines add a sweet sizzle to summer meals,” said Sheri Mierau, president, California Tree Fruit Agreement. “Grilling these healthy summer fruits add a sweet and juicy component to the vibrant lifestyle of summer.”

Following are some additional summer meal suggestions from sunrise to sunset utilizing fresh California peaches, plums and nectarines.

Breakfast

– Stuff whole-grain French toast with slices of warm grilled peaches. Top with sweetened California peach puree

Lunch

– California peaches, plums and nectarines partner well with grilled chicken, thinly-sliced beef, and shrimp in entr

Injury Prevention on the Roster as Youth Soccer Season Heats Up: Top Sports Orthopaedic Surgeon Dr. Kevin Plancher on Avoiding, Treating Kids’ Soccer Injuries

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New York, NY and Greenwich, CT (PRWEB) October 1, 2008

Youth soccer is one of America’s most popular team sport, with millions of kids in the U.S. participating in soccer programs each year. While soccer is considered far safer than contact sports like football, injuries on the soccer field still number more than 100,000 each year and account for 75,000 emergency room visits annually. The good news is that simple preventive strategies can help keep kids injury free on the soccer field this season – and when injuries do occur, there are effective techniques to help children recover more quickly and completely.

“Nearly half of all youth soccer injuries happen to adolescents between the ages of 10 and 14, a time period when kids begin to develop more strength but are still struggling with body control,” explains Dr. Kevin Plancher, MD, a leading orthopaedic surgeon in the NY metro area and an official surgeon of the U.S. Ski & Snowboard Team. “Concurrently, this age group might also begin to take more physical risks on the playing field, but tend to downplay the need for comprehensive preparations before practice or competition,” he notes, adding, “Through proper coaching and training, youth soccer participants can learn to protect themselves from injury, and to recognize an injury when it does occur.”

AN OUNCE OF PREVENTION: Pre-season training and pre-game warmups

Dr. Plancher stresses that two major strategies – training and conditioning, along with pre-competition and practice warm-ups – can go a long way toward keeping young players injury-free. “Most injuries to soccer players over the age of five involve the lower extremities,” he points out. “Beginning a preseason strengthening and conditioning program can help these players increase strength and flexibility in the muscles, tendons and ligaments of the hips, legs, knees and ankles, reducing the risk of injury once competition begins.”

Dr. Plancher recommends that teams hire a certified athletic trainer when possible to work with young athletes, or to train coaches on tactics aimed at reducing the risk of injuries on the field. “Sports medicine research confirms the importance of training, and more specifically, the types of exercises that are appropriate – and inappropriate – for developing children and adolescents,” Dr. Plancher advises

Certified trainers work with teams to teach proper running and pivoting techniques to reduce the risk of knee injuries such as ACL and meniscus tears – which are on the rise among young athletes. At Plancher Orthopaedics, trainer Hunter Greene, MS, ATC/L, OTC, works with local middle school, high school and college teams. Trainers like Hunter can work with young athletes to help them avoid overuse injuries, which occur when children engage in a single repetitive motion over a long time period that puts stress on a muscle, ligament, tendon or joint. In soccer, the ankles and knees are most prone to these types of injuries, and athletic trainers provide conditioning to help children avoid them. “Soccer is a game of constant movement,” Dr. Plancher points out, “And so young athletes need to learn the proper techniques to protect their joints and ligaments during long stretches of running and physical exertion.”

Finally, coaches and athletic trainers should ensure that youth players warm up adequately before engaging in full competition or practice. Dr. Plancher suggests that warm-ups consist of several minutes of light cardiovascular exercise such as jogging around the field, followed by 10-15 minutes of stretching the core muscles that will be taxed during practice or game play.

IN CASE OF INJURY: Recognizing and RICE-ing a child’s soccer injury

When injuries do occur, Dr. Plancher notes, the most important strategy to reduce its impact and ensure a positive and timely recovery is recognition. “In game situations, particularly among young players, there is frequently a temptation to ‘shake off’ or play through an injury,” Dr. Plancher points out. “However, tendon and ligament injuries can worsen with additional activity, and so it is important that an injured child be removed from play until a certified athletic trainer or a physician can evaluate the injury.” Dr. Plancher suggests that any young athlete who experiences swelling or hears a tearing or popping sound at the site of the injury, or has difficulty bearing weight in the injured area, should refrain from play. “The RICE technique – rest, ice, compression and elevation – should be applied immediately, and if the symptoms persist or worsen after several hours, the child should be taken to an emergency room or a board-certified orthopaedic surgeon,” he advises.

“Soccer can be one of the safest and most enjoyable sports for young athletes to participate in,” Dr. Plancher concludes. “As with any sport, soccer is most enjoyable when the players are conditioned and prepared to play in ways that help them reduce their risk of painful injuries that sideline them from the game.”

Bio:

Kevin D. Plancher, M.D., M.S., F.A.C.S., F.A.A.O.S, is a leading orthopaedic surgeon and sports medicine expert with treatment in knee, shoulder, elbow and hand injuries. Dr. Plancher is an Associate Clinical Professor in Orthopaedics at Albert Einstein College of Medicine in NY. He is on the Editorial Review Board of the Journal of American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons.

A graduate of Georgetown University School of Medicine, Dr. Plancher received an M.S. in Physiology and an M.D. from their school of medicine (cum laude). He did his residency at Harvard’s combined Orthopaedic program and a Fellowship at the Steadman-Hawkins clinic in Vail, Colorado where he studied shoulder and knee reconstruction. Dr. Plancher continued his relationship with the Clinic for the next six years as a Consultant. Dr. Plancher has been a team physician for over 15 athletic teams, including high school, college and national championship teams. Dr. Plancher is currently the head team physician for Manhattanville College. Dr. Plancher is an attending physician at Beth Israel Hospital in New York City and The Stamford Hospital in Stamford, CT and has offices in Manhattan and Greenwich, Connecticut. http://www.plancherortho.com

Dr. Plancher lectures extensively domestically and internationally on issues related to Orthopaedic procedures and injury management. During 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007 and 2008, Dr. Plancher was named among the Top Doctors in the New York Metro area and was the New York State Representative for the Council of Delegates to the American Academy of Orthopaedic surgeons. In 2007 Dr. Plancher was named America’s Top Doctor in Sports Medicine. For the past six years Dr. Plancher has received the Order of Merit (Magnum Cum Laude) for distinguished Philanthropy in the Advancement of Orthopaedic Surgery by the Orthopaedic Research and Education Foundation. In 2001, he founded “The Orthopaedic Foundation for Active Lifestyles”, a non-profit foundation focused on maintaining and enhancing the physical well-being of active individuals through the development and promotion of research and supporting technologies. http://www.ofals.org.

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Tis the Season to Schlep Through Ice and Snow: Little Jet Set Helps Holiday Travelers Stay Merry

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Ocean Grove, NJ (Vocus) November 14, 2008

For most of us the holidays mean spending time with family. Whether it?s eating glazed ham at Grandma?s in Greensboro, sharing eggnog at your brother?s in Boca, or exchanging gifts in person with your in-laws in Illinois, it?s the being with family that?s important. And while hanging out with your relatives is wonderful, if you have young children, getting to those relatives can be anything but merry.

Face it, kids have a tough time traveling. Even if the end result is getting gifts and re-connecting with close cousins, for children, waiting on lines, sitting in traffic and keeping still for hours on airplanes is an impossible feat. Some families are content to stick their young ones in front of travel DVD players so they can watch away the time. But other families are looking for alternatives. And luckily for them, LittleJetSet.com is a website that has great toys, gifts and other fun and practical ideas for traveling families.

Whether you?re the family that?s doing the traveling or you?re the ones being traveled to, http://www.littlejetset.com should be the first destination. In addition to having one of the internet?s most extensive family-travel oriented selections, LittleJetSet.com has some of the greatest toys, books and dolls available anywhere. Here are some of its most recommended brands and products for the holidays that are sure to delight children and parents alike:

Zoobie Pets (Ages 0+, $ 25-$ 34) embody an innovative and newly patented 3-in-1 concept. Each pet is a plush toy, a soft pillow and a comfy blanket all in one – the perfect childhood companion. Zoobie Pets make for the ideal traveling companions for children, keeping kids entertained when they are awake and comfortable when they are asleep. Smaller Baby Zoobie Pets now also available. Choose from a variety of jungle and zoo animals including Hada the Hippo, Ellema the Elephant, Gogo the Gorilla, Lencho the Lion and many more.

The Tray Bien (Age 0+, $ 39.95) is the brainchild of a travel savvy mom. This in-flight organizer that fits over most standard economy class tray tables keeps all your baby’s necessities in one place and within easy reach, putting an end to getting up, ducking down and knocking into the seat in front of you. With multiple pockets and two drinkholders, there’s room for bottles, diapers, wipes, pacifiers, toys, and even a celebrity gossip magazine (or Pulitzer Prize winning novel if that’s your thing). Pockets feature Velcro closures and drink holders have “stay put” elastic and tabs; width expands up to 1 inch to fit most economy class tray tables; packs easily into carry-on bag; machine washable. Available in Classic Polka and Flower Power.

The Car Valet (Ages 3+, $ 30) is a bright, fun carrying case and fold out desk attaches to the back of front seats for easy access by young riders. Features 2 removable zippered pouches, 2 mesh pockets, an adjustable work surface and a frame on the front for a photo or drawing. With a full double zipper closure, art supplies and snacks remain secure inside. Has convenient carrying handle, and can easily be wiped clean. Winner of Dr. Toy’s Best Vacation Products Award, Oppenheim Toy Portfolio Gold Seal Award, and Parents’ Choice Recommendation Award.

innovativeKids creates award-winning books designed for everyday play and extraordinary learning, from birth to age 12 and beyond. More than just books, innovativeKids titles are also games, puzzles, and toys?because having fun is the best way to learn, and more fun means more learning. With My First Amazing Game Board Book (Ages 3-6, $ 19.99), kids will never be bored. With more than 50 games and activities, this ultimate portable game board book is perfect for summer fun and travel. In addition to familiar favorites such as tic-tac-toe, memory match, mazes, dot-to-dot, and a drawing board, there is also a magnetic weather board with pieces to dress bear for the different seasons, a weaving frame to exercise fine motor skills, a shoe-tying board with actual shoe laces, a math bingo game, an all-about-me board, a game of opposites, a peg board to pattern or make your own designs, and a letter and number board, as well as many more games and activities to do on the write-on/wipe-off pages. The Amazing Game Board Book (Ages 6+, $ 19.99) also available.

The Piggy Story is a labor of love founded by owner (and mother) Peiling Hwang. Armed with a 15-year background in design Peiling set out to build a company dedicated to crafting an imaginative suite of products from the child?s point-of-view. Piggy Story products are always imaginative, stylish and built to last ? equal parts vintage charm and intuitive, modern design. The Art and Activity Backpack (Ages 3+, $ 39.95) is the newest addition to the Piggy Story family. This is a perfect first backpack for young travelers, whether it is for school, trips, or jaunts around town. The backpack is sturdy yet lightweight to endure all kinds of kids’ play without slowing them down. Laminated exterior and water-resistant interior makes cleaning easy and keeps belongings dry. The unique slotted marker compartment will help aspiring little artists organize their tools while the see-through inner pocket allows quick and easy access to all their other gear. There is also a removable pocket pouch for spare pencils, erasers, change, or other knick-knacks. Comes with 10 washable double-sided markers (thick & thin tips), mini story book, matching themed activity book with stickers and matching doodle pad. Available in What’s a Dragon, Piggy Fairy, Pretty Princess and Doggie Diary.

Since the beginning wood has been the material of choice for Blue Orange due to its quality, durability, warmth and appeal. Blue Orange protects our planet by planting two trees for every tree it uses to make its award-winning wooden games. The recipient of the first Green Toy Company Award in 2007, Blue Orange treasures the times when family and friends gather together for a great game. Creating lively, fun, and quality games is its way to further those precious moments. Two great games to consider are:

Gobblet on the Go (Ages 4+, $ 15.95) and Double Shutter Jr. (Ages 6+, $ 22.95). Gobblet on the Go is the travel version of Gobblet Junior, the multiple award-winning fun game of memory and strategy for the whole family. Easy to learn (about 20 seconds), Gobblet on the Go plays just like tic-tac-toe except that you can gobble up your opponent’s pieces and move yours around the board. Fast to play, it is the best first strategy game for young children, and incredibly addictive for adults. Very convenient, the wooden board and pieces come in a drawstring bag. Double Shutter Jr. helps develop math skills, and is easy to learn and fun to play. Roll the dice and add up the dots to shut the tiles of your choice. The tile total must match the dot total in any combination you want. Throw the dice until no more tiles can be shut. The player with the lowest tile total remaining wins the round. Shut all the tiles and win a bonus point! First player to score 5 points wins. Self-contained game comes with 2 dice and illustrated rules.

Inspired by the enduring magic and importance of books, Chronicle Books strives to publish exceptional titles that are instantly recognizable for their spirit, creativity and value. Chronicle Books was founded in 1967 and over the years has developed a reputation for award-winning, innovative books. The Children’s list was launched in 1988 and has grown to include not only traditional picture books but affordable paperbacks, board books, plush toys, and novelty merchandise. Among Chronicle’s best is Doodle All Year by Taro Gomi (Ages 3+, $ 16.95). Gomi is back with a new addition to the wildly popular Scribbles, Doodles, and Squiggles series. Playful drawings of spring, summer, fall, and winter scenes plus fun-to-follow instructions will have kids of all ages doodling, drawing, and stretching their imaginations all year long! Gomi lives in Japan and has created more than 350 books for children, including Everyone Poops, My Friends, Spring Is Here, Scribbles, Squiggles, and Doodles.

Bananagrams (Ages 7+, $ 14.95) is destined to be a classic and should be a part of every family’s game collection. Bananagrams was created by a family of three generations, spanning in age from 7?75. As some of the family live in the U.K. and the rest live in the U.S. they are fortunate enough to meet every summer by the sea on the east coast of America. The game Bananagrams grew from a passionate love of word games. Obsessed by all the word games that could be found, they all hankered after something a bit more fluid than the classics they all love and wanted a game that the family could play together ? ALL ages at the same time ? and that they could take anywhere. Bananagrams is a FAST and FUN word game that requires NO pencil, paper or board. All you need is a table. One hand can be played in as little as 5 minutes. Great family fun as well as being educational! Bananagrams portability makes it perfect for travel. Just grab the pouch and go! WARNING – This game is extremely addictive.

ABOUT LITTLEJETSET.COM

Little Jet Set was co-founded by a pair of seasoned attorneys turned expert ?mom travelers? who decided to take a sabbatical from practicing law to share their knowledge about the inherent challenges of traveling with children with other parents.

As ?mompreneurs,? Hana Wolf and Nisha Cordero carefully select thoughtfully designed and well-constructed kids’ travel accessories and products from award-winning companies that appeal to various ages and interests and that respond to the travel needs of today?s families.

For more information visit http://www.littlejetset.com

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Anaheim Ducks and Honda Center Partner with Konica Minolta for 2009-2010 Season

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Anaheim, CA and Ramsey NJ (Vocus) October 9, 2009

Anaheim Arena Management, LLC, the management company for Honda Center and the Anaheim Ducks Hockey Club, LLC announced today that they have formed a partnership with Konica Minolta Business Solutions U.S.A., Inc. (Konica Minolta), making them the exclusive provider of Office Printer Systems for the National Hockey League?s Anaheim Ducks and their home arena, the Honda Center, which is one of the premier entertainment and sports venues in the country.

?Konica Minolta is a world-class brand that we are excited to bring on board,? said Wendy Grover, Honda Center director of corporate partnerships. ?Their high quality products are a welcome addition to our offices, and will assist us in continuing to run our business effectively and efficiently.?

Konica Minolta?s multifunctional products (MFPs ? print, copy, fax, scan all-in-one system) and desktop printers are the top of the line in advanced imaging and networking technologies and offer unparalleled advances in print quality. Ducks coaches, players and staff, along with Honda Center employees and visiting tours will all have access to the new Konica Minolta systems located throughout the venue. Additionally, as part of the partnership, Konica Minolta will be featured on television billboards.

“We focus on aligning our corporate marketing efforts with organizations that share our corporate values and drive for excellence such as Anaheim Arena Management,” said Kevin Kern, Vice President, Marketing, Konica Minolta Business Solutions U.S.A., Inc. “Just as the fans of the Anaheim Ducks can count on another thrilling year this season, our customers have learned to count on Konica Minolta for all of their printing needs.”

Further terms of the agreement were not disclosed.

Visit http://www.KMBSsports.com to enter for your chance to win The Konica Minolta Ultimate Sports Experience*.

About Honda Center:

Honda Center is the premier entertainment and sports venue in Southern California. Owned by the City of Anaheim and operated by Anaheim Arena Management, LLC, the arena opened in June of 1993. The National Hockey League?s Anaheim Ducks have called the arena home since their inaugural season in the fall of 1993. In addition to Ducks games each year, Honda Center hosts sporting events such as the annual John R. Wooden Classic and Professional Bull Riders, concerts by top performers including U2, Paul McCartney and the Eagles, and family shows like Stars On Ice, Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Circus as well as the Harlem Globetrotters.

About the Anaheim Ducks:

The Anaheim Ducks have earned eight trips to the Stanley Cup Playoffs, including postseason appearances each of the last four years. By securing the first Stanley Cup championship in franchise history in 2007, the club also became the first team from California to win hockey?s ultimate prize. One of 30 franchises located throughout the United States and Canada, the Ducks have played to over 90% capacity crowds in their history at the 17,174-seat Honda Center. On June 20, 2005, the Ducks? franchise was purchased by Orange County residents Henry and Susan Samueli. The Samueli?s first four years of ownership saw the club qualify for the playoffs in four consecutive seasons for the first time in franchise history.

Visit us online at http://www.hondacenter.com and http://www.anaheimducks.com.

About Konica Minolta:

Konica Minolta Business Solutions U.S.A., Inc. is a leader in advanced imaging and networking technologies for the desktop to the print shop. For the second consecutive year, Konica Minolta was recognized as the #1 Brand for Customer Loyalty in the MFP Office Copier Market by Brand Keys. For more information, please visit http://www.CountOnKonicaMinolta.com.

Honda Center Contact

Tracy Richmond

Honda Center

+1 714.704.2988

Anaheim Ducks Contact

Alex Gilchrist

Anaheim Ducks Hockey Club, LLC

+1 714.940.2911

Konica Minolta Contact

James Norberto

Konica Minolta Business Solutions U.S.A., Inc.

+1 201.825.4000

Konica Minolta is a trademark of Konica Minolta Holdings, Inc. All other trademarks mentioned in this document are the property of their respective owners. * NO PURCHASE NECESSARY. A PURCHASE WILL NOT INCREASE YOUR CHANCES OF WINNING. LEGAL RESIDENTS OF THE 48 CONTIGUOUS U.S. (D.C.), 21 YEARS AND OLDER. VOID IN AK, HI AND WHERE PROHIBITED. Sweepstakes ends: 12/15/09. For Official Rules, prize descriptions and odds disclosure, visit http://www.kmbssports.com. Sponsor: Konica Minolta Business Solutions U.S.A, Inc., 100 Williams Drive, Ramsey, NJ 07446. If you would like your name removed from Sponsor?s mailing list, please send your request to the above address, ATTN: Interactive Marketing, and your name will be removed within 60 days.

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During the Busy Holiday Season, Retailers Turn to USM

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Norristown (PRWEB) December 9, 2009

It’s that time of year when masses of people hit the stores to embark on the journey of holiday shopping. For most customers, the biggest concern may be finding the best sale; however, the retailer has to consider much more than just merchandise to keep shoppers satisfied.

The modern retail experience has become about more than just buying products. It’s about the feeling the customer gets from being in your store. A brand involves a promise to customers to offer not only a quality product, but also provide a safe and enjoyable shopping experience. This can be especially challenging during the holiday season, trying to satisfy a large volume of shoppers on a daily basis.

Among the opportunities a retailer has to keep its brand top of mind during the holiday season is the store image itself. This includes all aspects of the facility – from floor to ceiling, roof to door. From the outdoor landscape to the indoor air quality. It’s all important. It all creates an impression, and the first impression is often the last one.

In comes the Integrated Facility Management Solutions Provider (I-FM). An I-FM is responsible for the management and maintenance of every retail site nationwide. Not only does an I-FM offer brand consistency across all sites, but they provide retailers a single resource to manage the facilities brand – ensuring that strategic operations goals are met across all sites, critical business factors such as short and long term energy efficiency plans are in place, budgets are fixed and site conditions remain accommodating, comfortable and appropriately lit.

USM (formerly US Maintenance) is among the nation’s most trusted integrated facilities maintenance and management providers. Serving 6 out of the top 10 retailers nationwide, USM has developed fully integrated and exterior and interior programs for its more than 200 clients across North America. And during the holiday season, USM maintenance professionals and site specialists are at their most needed.

Aside from hanging interior and exterior holiday displays and creating a comfortable and well light store environment, winter weather is another major factor that requires special attention. Snow and ice can be dangerous to both customers and employees. An example of one such unplanned snow crisis occurred during the past New Year’s holiday at one of the nation’s largest discount superstores in their Flagstaff, Arizona store. In less than 24 hours, they had to remove more than 30 inches of snow from the site in order to comply with local safety codes. They turned to USM, as the incumbent exterior facilities solution provider, to help sustain a safe environment for customers as well as protect the brand image. Additionally, snow on the roof this deep would have meant temporarily closing the store over the New Year’s holiday, which would have cost them hundreds of thousands of dollars in lost revenue and potentially significant roof damage.

“Closing their doors would have been detrimental,” said Shaun Levenson, Chief Strategy Officer for USM. “If they were to close for one day during the holiday season, it would result in more than $ 200,000 in lost revenue, not to mention the inconvenience to customers and damage to their reputation.”

USM assessed the 100,000 square foot rooftop that was buried in almost three feet of heavy

snow and ice. There were several obstacles to consider to ensure the snow was removed safely without putting customers, employees or USM staff in danger. Weight distribution while removing the snow had to be carefully planned and organized with engineers, or the risk of causing a collapse or damaging the structure was as likely as if the snow was left on the roof.

Experienced project management teams and quick response units mobilized the site within just a few hours. Within 12 hours, more than 75 USM contractors were actively removing snow from the roof. USM also worked with the retailer to identify areas where snow drifts could significantly impact the recorded weight capacity of the roof to ensure these areas were also taken care of.

As a result, the store was able to stay open for shoppers during the New Year’s holiday while averting the risk and liability of a total roof collapse. Avoid holiday season meltdown. Take the risk out of the facility management and guarantee a safe, cost-effective and innovative I-FM strategy this year.

For more information please visit usmservices.com.

To see how else snow can impact the holiday shopping season, please visit: http://www.brainshark.com/usmservices/holidayshopping .

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North Carolina?s Ski and Snow Season Kicks Off With New Winter Zip Line, Anniversary Festivities and a Return to Oz

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Raleigh, NC (Vocus) December 12, 2009

North Carolina?s ski season hits full steam this weekend as all the state?s ski and tubing attractions are open. The resorts feature several new activities and special deals. Visitors traveling to North Carolina?s High Country resorts near Boone are reminded that these areas are easily accessible through a variety of routes despite the detour on U.S. 321 between Lenoir and Blowing Rock. For more information on skiing in North Carolina, go to VisitNC.com.

This weekend, Sugar Mountain celebrates SugarFest to kick off its 40th anniversary as one of North Carolina?s premier ski resorts. Hawksnest Snow Tubing has all four parks open for snow tubing and now offers one of the only winter zip lines in the nation. This weekend only, Appalachian Ski Mountain has a ?Ski and Tree? package offering a discount on a ?choose and cut? Christmas tree with purchase of a lift ticket. Ski Beech opens its Upper Shawneehaw run and high-speed quad lift this weekend. And the free kid?s sledding hill is open in the Town of Beech Mountain.

U.S. 321 in Caldwell County near Lenoir between Kirby Mountain Road and Waterfalls Road is expected to be closed through the weekend as construction crews remove boulders loosened during road construction. Blasting has been taking place weekly on the U.S. 321 widening project from Blowing Rock to Lenoir. Alternatives to U.S. 321 include Interstate 77 North, U.S. 421, U.S. 221 and N.C. 18 to N.C. 181 from Interstate 40. For information on current road conditions, visitors should check the North Carolina Department of Transportation Traveler Information Management System website at http://www.ncdot.gov/traffictravel or call 511, the state?s free travel information line.

North Carolina features the highest ski areas and the largest snow tubing resort in the eastern U.S. Visitors to Western North Carolina can enjoy skiing, snowboarding, snow tubing, snowshoeing, ice skating, and a winter zip line or just sitting in a warm cozy lodge drinking hot cocoa. Here is an overview of North Carolina?s facilities open for the weekend.

Appalachian Ski Mountain

Appalachian Ski Mountain is now the home for Burton Snowboards? first Progression Park in North Carolina. With the completion of a multitude of ski area improvement projects, Appalachian Ski Mountain has now invested $ 3 million in snowmaking and other improvements in the last three years. More snow blowing fan guns were installed this summer; Appalachian Ski Mountain now has the greatest snowmaking capacity per acre in the Southeast. 828-295-7828; http://www.appskimtn.com

Cataloochee Ski Area

Cataloochee Ski Area, located in the Great Smoky Mountains of Western North Carolina is traditionally the first ski resort in the Mid-Atlantic region to make snow and open for the season. The oldest winter area in North Carolina, Cataloochee continues to make significant improvements to its snowmaking capabilities, allowing the resort?s operational staff to be aggressive in helping skiers and snowboarders with their first tracks of the season. 828-926-0285; http://www.cataloochee.com

Hawksnest Snow Tubing and Zip line Course

A new addition this year is the country?s longest zip line course. The Hawksnest zip line course is 1.5 miles long and is open all year. In addition to the longest zip line course, Hawksnest has taken snow tubing to new levels of fun. Hawksnest?s expanded snow tubing operation makes it the biggest on the East Coast. Hawksnest Snow Tubing has four different areas to snow tube with more than 20 lanes of fun. Lanes are 400 ? 1000 feet long with two moving carpet lifts to take guests back to the top. Hawksnest has 100 percent snowmaking and lighting on all lanes to provide the best possible conditions and fun for the whole family. 828-963-6561 or 800-822-4295; http://www.hawksnesttubing.com

Sapphire Ski Valley Resort and Frozen Falls Tube Park

Sapphire Ski Resort is a four-season resort located in the Blue Ridge Mountains. Sapphire prides itself on being a learning and group-friendly facility. Sapphire is also a family friendly resort for those who are looking to spend quality time with their loved ones. Sapphire Ski Resort features skiing, snowboarding and a tube park. 828-743-7663; http://www.sapphirevalleyresort.com

Ski Beech at Beech Mountain

At Ski Beech the popular Oz run returns this winter with new padded quad chairs and newly installed airless electrical snowmaking hookups along the run so the slope can be blown in within 24 hours. Also this winter a second terrain park will be unveiled with a fully functional lift that will access a multi-featured park with rails, boxes and jumps for intermediate to advanced freestyle riders. The resort also features a tubing park. Additionally, all reservoir lakes have been dredged to push the mountain?s water capacity to eight-million gallons. 828-387-2011 or 1-800-438-2093; http://www.skibeech.com

Sugar Mountain Resort

Sugar Mountain Resort is even sweeter this year with special programs and deals throughout the season to honor its 40th anniversary. The Resort opened in 1969 with four lifts and 11 slopes for skiing. Since then Sugar has grown to include seven lifts and 20 slopes for skiers and snowboarders. Winter activity offerings have expanded over the years to include snowshoeing, tubing and ice skating. 828-898-4521 or 1-800-SUGARMT; http://www.skisugar.com

Wolf Ridge Ski Resort

Formerly Wolf Laurel Slopes, Wolf Ridge Ski Resort offers 15 acres of additional ski slopes, a new quad lift, a new terrain park and much more. There is something for everyone from beginner to expert at this family-oriented resort now with an expanded 82 acres of ski terrain. 828-689-4111; http://www.skiwolfridgenc.com

MORE WINTER ACTIVITIES:

North Carolina also has a number of other snow related activities. Snow tubing and sledding, though not as big as skiing, is a fun family friendly activity that everyone can enjoy. Here are more of North Carolina?s facilities.

Beech Mountain Sledding Park

The Town of Beech Mountain once again offers children a winter full of fun with its free youth sledding hill, one of the highest sledding hills in the eastern United States. The hill is adjacent to Town Hall and provides good sledding conditions with a combination of man-made and natural snow. Beech Mountain, at an elevation of 5,506 feet, is the highest town in Eastern America with an average annual snowfall of more than 80 inches. The Beech Mountain sledding hill is for kids age 12 and under, although parents may ride with smaller children. Plastic sleds are required. 828-387-9283; http://www.beechmtn.com

Scaly Mountain Outdoor Center

Scaly Mountain offers year-round tubing with snow in the winter and artificial turf in the summer. The resort even offers a kiddie slope for young tubers and plans to open a skating rink in 2009. Opening for the season on Saturday. 828-526-3737; http://www.scalymountain.com

Jonas Ridge Snow Tubing

Located six miles south of Linville, Jonas Ridge features three tubing runs. They also offer night tubing. Will open for the season on Sunday – will maybe open on Saturday if conditions allow. Call to confirm opening and hours. 828-733-4155

Contact:

Susan Dosier

(704) 953-9408

sdosier(at)visitnc(dot)com

Wit Tuttell

(919) 733-7420

wit(at)visitnc(dot)com

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Favorite Drink Recipes to Toast the Season with Your Family and Guests

Posted on by

(PRWEB) November 6, 2004

The holidays represent a time to enjoy family, friends, food, good cheers — and perhaps even a little time off from work. It’s a time of year when many of us rejoice in laughter, feel a sense of tranquility and peace, and count our blessings for all that we have. There is the fresh aroma of pine trees, nutmeg, allspice, cloves and cinnamon that alert our sense of smell in the home. And to toast all of these wonderful treasures, preparing seasonal drinks enhances the occasion.

“Some of my fondest holiday memories growing up surround my mom and dad in the kitchen,” said Patty Kinder, planner of events amd private parties for Bravo Productions, an award-winning, full-service event planning and production company specializing in staging corporate functions nationwide. “I can remember my mom basting a turkey and my dad preparing a round of holiday cheer, including hot and cold beverages to warm the heart. And although my dad passed away nearly two years ago, my 85-year-old mom has kept many of our holiday traditions alive, each year incorporating her and my dad’s favorite non-alcoholic and alcoholic punches, hot beverages and drink recipes.”

Whether hosting an open house, family get-together, entertaining friends or planning a tree-trimming party, serving some of these holiday beverages are sure to bring lots of compliments, as well as many refills. Kinder shares some of her family’s recipes, as well as a few suggested by her colleagues.

TOM & JERRY

Take 3 fresh eggs. Beat yolks and whites separately. Add and blend 6 ounces granulated sugar to whites while beating. Add well-beaten yolks to whites. Stir in 6 drops of vanilla and 1/16 teaspoon baking soda. Put 2 tablespoons of this batter into a Tom & Jerry mug or teacup. Add 1 ½ ounces of Seagram’s 7 Crown. Fill with boiling milk and sprinkle nutmeg on top.

15 Servings

EGGNOG PUNCH BOWL

Take 6 fresh eggs. Beat yolks and whites separately, adding ½ lb. sugar to whites and beat until stiff. Add well-beaten yolks to whites; beat thoroughly together. Stir in 1 ½ ounces rum. Add Seagram’s 7 Crown, 1 pint of cream, 1 pint of milk. Stir ingredients well. Serve cold with grated nutmeg on top.

10 Servings

HOT BUTTERED RUM

Mix 2 teaspoons sugar with 2 tablespoons of hot water. Add 1 jigger (1.5 oz. – 2 oz.) dark rum and butter (size of marble.) Fill the cup with hot water.

Single Serving

CHRISTMAS CIDER

Add 1 gallon apple cider, a 5th of cream sherry, 1 cup cranberry juice, 1 cup raisins, 6-10 whole cloves, 3-5 cinnamon sticks and 6-10 allspice. Heat on low temperature, serve and enjoy!

WASSAIL

In a large pot, combine 2 quarts water and 2 cups sugar. Boil for 10 minutes. Add ½ tablespoons cloves, 3 cinnamon sticks and 1 ½ tablespoon candied ginger to liquid mixture and let stand in a warm place for 1-hour. Lift out spices with a straining spoon. Add 2 quarts of orange juice, ½ pint (1 cup) lemon juice and 1 gallon of apple cider. Boil on low heat. Serve hot.

HOT BUTTERED PINEAPPLE DRINK

In a large sauce pan, combine 1 (48 ounce) can pineapple juice, 2/3 cup of orange juice, 2

tablespoons butter or margarine, 2 teaspoons brown sugar and 4 cinnamon sticks. Bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce the heat and let simmer for 20 minutes. Remove the cinnamon sticks and serve hot.

Makes 5 Cups

VANILLA COCOA

In a saucepan, combine 1 1/3 cup granulated sugar and ¼ cup cocoa. Add a few tablespoons of milk and heat over medium high heat, stirring constantly. When the sugar, cocoa and milk have formed a paste, add 1 quart of milk plus ¼ teaspoon vanilla extract or ½ teaspoon cinnamon and heat until steaming. Pour into mugs and top with whipped cream if desired. Serve immediately.

4 Servings

WARM AND SPICY AUTUMN PUNCH

Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Stud 2 whole oranges with cloves, and bake for 30 minutes. In a large saucepan, combine 6 cups apple juice and 1 cinnamon stick. Bring mixture to a boil, and reduce the heat to medium, and simmer 5 minutes. Remove from heat, and stir in ¼ teaspoon nutmeg, ¼ cup honey, 3 tablespoons lemon juice and 2 ¼ cups pineapple juice. Serve hot in a punch bowl with the clove-studded baked oranges floating on top.

16 Servings

CRANBERRY SUNRISE

Combine 1 ½ cups sugar and hot water. Stir until dissolved and cool. Add 1 cup fresh lemon juice and ½ cup fresh orange juice and stir thoroughly. Fill four glasses with ice.

Pour juice mixture in each glass until half full. Pour cranberry juice slowly over the lemonade mixture so the drink is in layers of color. Garnish with orange slices for even a more colorful presentation.

4 Glasses

“Whether you opt to try these recipes or create your own, there’s nothing more pleasurable than creating fond memories and great traditions — especially around the holidays,” says Kinder

Headquartered in Southern California, Bravo Productions also has offices in Las Vegas, Colorado and Washington state. Kinder can be reached at patty@bravoevents-online.com.

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Related Ice Removal Services Press Releases

Favorite Drink Recipes to Toast the Season with Your Family and Guests

Posted on by

(PRWEB) November 6, 2004

The holidays represent a time to enjoy family, friends, food, good cheers — and perhaps even a little time off from work. It’s a time of year when many of us rejoice in laughter, feel a sense of tranquility and peace, and count our blessings for all that we have. There is the fresh aroma of pine trees, nutmeg, allspice, cloves and cinnamon that alert our sense of smell in the home. And to toast all of these wonderful treasures, preparing seasonal drinks enhances the occasion.

“Some of my fondest holiday memories growing up surround my mom and dad in the kitchen,” said Patty Kinder, planner of events amd private parties for Bravo Productions, an award-winning, full-service event planning and production company specializing in staging corporate functions nationwide. “I can remember my mom basting a turkey and my dad preparing a round of holiday cheer, including hot and cold beverages to warm the heart. And although my dad passed away nearly two years ago, my 85-year-old mom has kept many of our holiday traditions alive, each year incorporating her and my dad’s favorite non-alcoholic and alcoholic punches, hot beverages and drink recipes.”

Whether hosting an open house, family get-together, entertaining friends or planning a tree-trimming party, serving some of these holiday beverages are sure to bring lots of compliments, as well as many refills. Kinder shares some of her family’s recipes, as well as a few suggested by her colleagues.

TOM & JERRY

Take 3 fresh eggs. Beat yolks and whites separately. Add and blend 6 ounces granulated sugar to whites while beating. Add well-beaten yolks to whites. Stir in 6 drops of vanilla and 1/16 teaspoon baking soda. Put 2 tablespoons of this batter into a Tom & Jerry mug or teacup. Add 1 ½ ounces of Seagram’s 7 Crown. Fill with boiling milk and sprinkle nutmeg on top.

15 Servings

EGGNOG PUNCH BOWL

Take 6 fresh eggs. Beat yolks and whites separately, adding ½ lb. sugar to whites and beat until stiff. Add well-beaten yolks to whites; beat thoroughly together. Stir in 1 ½ ounces rum. Add Seagram’s 7 Crown, 1 pint of cream, 1 pint of milk. Stir ingredients well. Serve cold with grated nutmeg on top.

10 Servings

HOT BUTTERED RUM

Mix 2 teaspoons sugar with 2 tablespoons of hot water. Add 1 jigger (1.5 oz. – 2 oz.) dark rum and butter (size of marble.) Fill the cup with hot water.

Single Serving

CHRISTMAS CIDER

Add 1 gallon apple cider, a 5th of cream sherry, 1 cup cranberry juice, 1 cup raisins, 6-10 whole cloves, 3-5 cinnamon sticks and 6-10 allspice. Heat on low temperature, serve and enjoy!

WASSAIL

In a large pot, combine 2 quarts water and 2 cups sugar. Boil for 10 minutes. Add ½ tablespoons cloves, 3 cinnamon sticks and 1 ½ tablespoon candied ginger to liquid mixture and let stand in a warm place for 1-hour. Lift out spices with a straining spoon. Add 2 quarts of orange juice, ½ pint (1 cup) lemon juice and 1 gallon of apple cider. Boil on low heat. Serve hot.

HOT BUTTERED PINEAPPLE DRINK

In a large sauce pan, combine 1 (48 ounce) can pineapple juice, 2/3 cup of orange juice, 2 tablespoons butter or margarine, 2 teaspoons brown sugar and 4 cinnamon sticks. Bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce the heat and let simmer for 20 minutes. Remove the cinnamon sticks and serve hot. Makes 5 Cups

VANILLA COCOA

In a saucepan, combine 1 1/3 cup granulated sugar and ¼ cup cocoa. Add a few tablespoons of milk and heat over medium high heat, stirring constantly. When the sugar, cocoa and milk have formed a paste, add 1 quart of milk plus ¼ teaspoon vanilla extract or ½ teaspoon cinnamon and heat until steaming. Pour into mugs and top with whipped cream if desired. Serve immediately. 4 Servings

WARM AND SPICY AUTUMN PUNCH

Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Stud 2 whole oranges with cloves, and bake for 30 minutes. In a large saucepan, combine 6 cups apple juice and 1 cinnamon stick. Bring mixture to a boil, and reduce the heat to medium, and simmer 5 minutes. Remove from heat, and stir in ¼ teaspoon nutmeg, ¼ cup honey, 3 tablespoons lemon juice and 2 ¼ cups pineapple juice. Serve hot in a punch bowl with the clove-studded baked oranges floating on top. 16 Servings

CRANBERRY SUNRISE

Combine 1 ½ cups sugar and hot water. Stir until dissolved and cool. Add 1 cup fresh lemon juice and ½ cup fresh orange juice and stir thoroughly. Fill four glasses with ice. Pour juice mixture in each glass until half full. Pour cranberry juice slowly over the lemonade mixture so the drink is in layers of color. Garnish with orange slices for even a more colorful presentation. 4 Glasses

“Whether you opt to try these recipes or create your own, there’s nothing more pleasurable than creating fond memories and great traditions — especially around the holidays,” says Kinder

Headquartered in Southern California, Bravo Productions also has offices in Las Vegas, Colorado and Washington state. Kinder can be reached at patty@bravoevents-online.com.

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