This holiday season, give a gift that inspires endless wonder—a book!
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(StatePoint) No matter who is on your list this holiday season, great books make for great gifts.

Here are five titles to consider giving knowledge-seekers to enjoy during the season, or as stocking stuffers:

Gem Lovers

Produced in association with the Smithsonian Institution, “Gem” is a visual guide to precious and semiprecious stones, organic gems, and precious metals, and features over 1,000 specially commissioned images. “Gem” reveals the science, natural history, mythology, and true stories behind the most celebrated gems and jewel-laden artifacts, including the Hope Diamond and Queen Elizabeth’s pelican brooch.

Readers can learn about the exquisite jewelry of cultures around the world, find out what characteristics are needed for a record-breaking gem, and follow the history of the world’s most famous jewelry houses and designers.

Star Gazers

Chart the wonders of the cosmos with “The Stars.” Packed with three-dimensional artworks of each constellation and new imagery from the Hubble Space Telescope, ground-based observatories and more, this guide features fascinating objects like glittering star-birth nebulae and supermassive black holes.

The position, size and color of every night-sky object are revealed and a three-dimensional model of the celestial sphere that surrounds Earth charts all 88 constellations. From the Big Bang to the search for extraterrestrial life, astronomy and cosmology topics are covered in an easy-to-digest visual format.

Automotive Enthusiasts

Classic car collectors and enthusiasts will enjoy “Classic Car,” a visual guide created in association with the Smithsonian Institution. Featuring the most iconic classics of every decade from the 1940s to the 1980s from the Aston Martin DB5 to the Chevrolet Corvette, the book offers detailed profiles of trademark models, as well as the famous designers and manufacturers behind them, featuring more than 1,300 photographs and two prints suitable for framing.

Inventors

Readers can build and explore 28 kid-safe experiments, crafts and activities with “Maker Lab.” Created in association with the Smithsonian Institution and supporting STEAM education initiatives, the book will get young inventors’ wheels turning, making science fun.

Explaining science through photographs, facts and real-world examples, each activity is appropriate for kids ages 8-12 years old. Requiring only household materials, young makers can build an exploding volcano; make bath fizzies; construct a solar system; and more.

Budding Builders

Encourage builders to look at their LEGO bricks in new, creative ways with “365 Things to do with LEGO Bricks,” an interactive book featuring imaginative play and building ideas, from projects that take just a few minutes to those that keep one occupied for hours.

Activities include building a LEGO pet, challenging friends to make the tallest tower while working against the clock, and organizing a LEGO bricks treasure hunt.

American Girl Fans

Offer American Girl fans a treasured bookshelf addition with “American Girl: Ultimate Visual Guide,” which includes images of every BeForever and Girl of the Year doll, an expanded section on the TrulyMe dolls and a detailed timeline of the company. Readers can learn about favorite dolls, historical eras, outfits, pets, accessories and more.

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Halloween Extreme at the CS Historical Museum

Oct. 29: Don’t miss Halloween Extreme at the Cedar Springs Historical Museum in Morley Park on Saturday, October 29th from 5 to 7 pm. This special evening is for teens and adults, a little scary for the little ones but loads of fun for our older visitors. #43p

Cedar Springs Halloween Spooktacular

Oct. 31:  The Cedar Springs Area Chamber of Commerce, businesses and churches in Cedar Springs are sponsoring the annual Cedar Springs Halloween Spooktacular on Saturday, October 31. Some of the free events include trick or treating from 4:30-7 p.m. at area businesses and City Hall, with maps available at the Library; The Cedar Springs Historical Museum will be having their Haunted School House from 5- 7 p.m.; Apple Cider from the Kent County Traffic Squad and Candy by the Cedar Springs Fire Department at the Fire barn (Maple Street); The Springs Church Trunk or Treating from 6-8 p.m; warm up at the Cedar Springs United Methodist Church with hot chocolate and treats. #43

Halloween Hospitality Center

Oct. 31: Warm up and rest station at the Cedar Springs United Methodist Church, 140 S. Main St., Cedar Springs on Monday, October 31st from 4:30 to 7:30 pm. Serving hot chocolate, popcorn and treats. Hope to see you then. #42,43p

Haunted School House 

Oct. 31: On Halloween night be sure to visit the Haunted School House in Morley Park. This Spooktacular event will be open from 5 to 7 pm. Our volunteers Marie and Nolon Patin along with Phil Mann will transform the one room school next to the museum into a fun and spooky place at visit. This event is suitable for all ages. #43

Trunk or Treat at Hillcrest

Oct. 31: Monday, October 31st: It’s Trunk or Treat fun time! Come check out our crazy trunks from 6 – 8 pm at Hillcrest Community Church of God located at 5994 – 18 Mile Rd., Cedar Springs. Don’t miss out on the safe family fun! #43

God’s Kitchen in Cedar Springs

Nov. 1,8,15,22,29: Join us for dinner every Tuesday. God’s Kitchen – Cedar Springs welcomes families from Northern Kent County and the surrounding area to a Tuesday Evening Meal. No charge – no registration required!  Served from 5:30 – 6:30 pm at the St. John Paul II Parish, 3110 – 17 Mile Rd., Cedar Springs. For more information, call the Church office at 616-696-3904. #43

Seuss on STEAM at KDL

Nov. 2,3: Kids are never too young to be introduced to basic scientific principles, especially when it involves fun activities based on their favorite Dr. Seuss books. For ages 6 and younger. Wednesday, November 2, 10 a.m. and Thursday, November 3, 6:30 p.m., Spencer Twp. KDL Branch, 14960 Meddler, Gowen. #43

Fall Festival at Cedar Springs UMC

Nov. 5: The annual Fall Festival will be on Saturday, November 5th from 9 am to 2 pm at the United Methodist Church in Cedar Springs. Booths will include: Cookie Patch, Jewelry, Grandma’s Attic, Book Nook, Toys and Home Made Crafts. The church is located at 140 S. Main St. All are welcome. Celebrate the season with us. #43,44

Sand Lake Lions Club Variety Sale

Nov. 5: The Sand Lake Lions Club will host a Variety Sale on Saturday, November 5th from 9 am – 3 pm at the Sand Lake United Methodist Church ED building. Located on the corner of 6th and Maple Streets. Antiques/Vintage collectibles and crafts, quality used clothing, miscellaneous items. #43,44

HCNC Holiday Make and Take

Nov. 12: Nothing Says Happy holidays like a homemade gift from a youngster. Bring your kiddos to Howard Christensen Nature Center, 16160 Red Pine Drive, Kent City on Saturday, November 12 from 10 am to 1 pm to make holiday gifts, ornaments and other crafts that can become gifts from the heart and the pride of your child! Drop off your child (5 and over) for a few hours while you shop for them and they become some of Santa’s greatest Elves. $8 per child, $5 for members. HCNC requests pre-registration to all events. Pre-registration online allows us to ensure enough supplies for all attendees. 616-675-3158.  #43

HCNC Wreath Making

Nov. 12: Come on back and make this years wreath from natural supplies. While they may not last as long as an artificial wreath, they are sure to fill your home with that aromatic sense of the holidays and add even more beauty because you made it! Have kids? This is a great time for them to join other “elves” in the Make and Take at the same time! Saturday, November 12 from 10 am to 1 pm. $10 per person, $5 for members.  Howard Christensen Nature Center, 16160 Red Pine Drive, Kent City. HCNC requests pre-registration to all events. Pre-registration online allows us to ensure enough supplies for all attendees. 616-675-3158.  #43

Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them: Fun and Film

Nov. 21: Join KDL at Celebration Cinema North in the Wave Room for the ultimate Harry Potter experience! Wear your favorite Hogwarts costume, hang out with other fans and try your hand at wizard crafts. After the party, head downstairs for a 7 p.m. private showing of “Fantastic Beasts And Where To Find Them.” Seats in the theater are limited. Purchase tickets in advance any KDL location or online at www.kdl.org. Tickets are $15 per person and include pop and popcorn. For teens grades 6-12. Monday, November 21, 5:30 – 9:30 p.m. #43

(Family Features)

This season is full of hustle and bustle, with everyone working hard to make holiday magic. In all the frenzy to make a big impression, it’s easy to forget to take a moment for yourself.
Brew a cup of coffee and treat yourself to a Cinnamon Latte. Enjoy alongside a piece of Chocolate Maple Cake with Chocolate Maple Mousse. Both are easy to make, giving you an extra moment in your busy day.

Chocolate Maple Cake with Chocolate Maple Mousse
Prep Time: 1 hour, 45 minutes
Yield: 12 servings
Cake:
Crisco® Original No-Stick Cooking Spray
2     ounces unsweetened baking chocolate
1/4     cup butter
1/2     cup sugar
1/2     cup Hungry Jack® Original Syrup
1/4     cup strong brewed Millstone Breakfast Blend K-Cup®
portion pack
1/2     cup buttermilk
1     large egg
1/2     teaspoon vanilla
extract
1     cup Pillsbury BEST®
All Purpose Flour
1/2     teaspoon baking soda
1/2     teaspoon salt
Mousse:
2     cups heavy cream,
divided
2 1/4 teaspoons Hungry
Jack Original Syrup
8     ounces milk chocolate,
chopped
Fresh fruit
Chocolate Maple Cake:
Heat oven to 350°F. Coat 8 x 8-inch baking pan with no-stick cooking spray.
Melt chocolate and butter in small saucepan over low heat. Cool 5 minutes.
Combine sugar, syrup, coffee, buttermilk, egg, vanilla and chocolate mixture in a large bowl.
Combine flour, baking soda and salt in small bowl. Stir flour mixture into chocolate mixture until blended. Pour batter into prepared pan. Bake 25 minutes or until toothpick inserted in center comes out clean. Cool completely on wire rack.
Chocolate Maple Mousse:
Bring 2/3 cup heavy cream to a boil.
Combine syrup and milk chocolate in medium bowl. Pour boiling cream over chocolate mixture. Wait 30 seconds then stir.
Stir in remaining 1 1/3 cups heavy cream to mixture with electric mixer on medium speed. Chill mixture for 1 hour.
Beat mousse until soft peak. Spread over cake. Top with fresh fruit if desired.

Cinnamon Latte

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Yield: 1 serving
1/2    cup milk
3-4    tablespoons cinnamon flavored syrup
1/4    cup hot, fresh strong brewed coffee
Whipped cream
Smucker’s® Sundae Syrup™ Caramel Flavored Syrup, for garnish
Ground cinnamon, for garnish
Pour milk into 1-quart microwave-safe bowl. Microwave on HIGH 1 to 1 1/2 minutes or until hot but not boiling. Whisk until foamy.
Pour cinnamon syrup into standard-size coffee cup. Microwave on HIGH 20 seconds to warm syrup. Stir in hot coffee.
Add steamed milk to brim of cup. Top with swirl of whipped cream. Drizzle with caramel flavored syrup. Sprinkle with cinnamon and serve.
Spend another minute with Millstone by going online for a chance to win $10,000, plus other weekly prizes. Promotion open to legal residents of the 50 United States and D.C. 18 years old or older. Void where prohibited. See www.millstone.com for more details and complete Official Rules.

Festivi-Tea Cosmopolitan

Family Features
Calling all holiday party planners: You can hear those sleigh bells ringing, can’t you? Like the most earnest of elves, you’re likely doing your spirited best to balance tradition with the unexpected. This holiday, invite a surprising guest to stir up your seasonal soiree — iced tea.
Alongside the wintertime warm-ups like hot chocolate and eggnog, more hosts are adding a non-traditional, yet oh-so-celebration-worthy sip to their gatherings.
“Until now, this beverage’s ability to liven up a festive fete has been a well-kept secret by iced tea-lovers,” says Stacy Taffet, Lipton brand. “But this beloved summertime cooler is fast becoming a popular pour at holiday get-togethers, thanks to a dash of cinnamon, nutmeg or apple cider.”
So, wow with what’s now, by serving up a new recipe featuring 100% Natural Lipton® Iced Tea mixed with traditional taste-making spices. They’re perfect for holiday partygoers of all ages.
Have a Berry Merry Cosmo
Blend the naughtiness of tart with the niceness of sweet for the ultimate pink drink — Cosmopolitans. With pomegranate, blueberry and cranberry juice, it’s a sassy, classic way to cheer the holiday season.

Festivi-Tea Cosmopolitan
3 servings
Prep time: 5 minutes
1 bottle 100% Natural Lipton Iced Tea  with Pomegranate Blueberry
3 tablespoons 100% cranberry juice
3 tablespoons orange juice
1 tablespoon lime juice
Combine all ingredients in a shaker filled with ice. Shake well and pour into chilled martini glasses.
Tip: For an adult version, use 2 tablespoons vodka and 2 tablespoons orange liqueur instead of orange juice.

Winter Berry Hot White Chocolate Tea

A Fruity Take on a Holiday Favorite
Move over, fruit cake! There’s a new take on festive fruity flavors. This savory and sweet recipe mixes together simple ingredients (which you most likely have on hand) with the delicious taste of pomegranate and blueberry.

Winter Berry Hot White Chocolate Tea
4 servings
Prep time: 5 minutes
Cook time: 8 minutes
1     cup white chocolate chips
1     cup light cream or half-and-half*
1     bottle 100% Natural Lipton Iced Tea with Pomegranate Blueberry
1/8     teaspoon ground nutmeg
Place all ingredients in a medium saucepan and warm over medium heat, stirring constantly, until chips are completely melted, about 8 minutes (do not boil).
Serve immediately. If desired, garnish with whipped cream and an additional sprinkle of nutmeg.
Tip: For an adult version, use 1/4 cup vodka or cherry brandy instead of 1/4 cup of light cream.
*Use fat-free half-and-half to make this dessert drink lower in saturated fat and calories.

Tea-Spiced Grog

Cinnamon, Spice and Iced Tea
This recipe offers a tasty twist on a long-standing holiday drink tradition: grog. Spice up each cup by bringing together sweet-scented cinnamon and crisp apple cider.

Tea-Spiced Grog
6 servings
Prep time: 5 minutes
Stand time: 20 minutes
2     bottles 100% Natural Lipton Iced Tea with Lemon
1     cup apple cider or apple juice
5     whole cloves
1     cinnamon stick
Bring all ingredients to a boil over high heat in a 2-quart saucepan. Remove from heat and let stand 20 minutes. Strain out spices and serve warm. If desired, garnish with sliced apples.
Tip: For spiked grog, add 1/4 cup light rum or brandy.

Black Tea Sangria

A Sangria Recipe for All Seasons
This sangria recipe is a great go-to for get-togethers because you can mix it hours in advance, leaving you more time to mix with what matters — your guests.

Black Tea Sangria
6 servings
Prep time: 5 minutes
Chill time: 2 hours
2     bottles 100% Natural Lipton Iced Tea with Lemon
1     cup unsweetened grape juice
1/4     cup orange juice
1     small orange, sliced
1     Gala apple, cored and sliced
1     lime, sliced
Combine all ingredients in large pitcher. Chill at least 2 hours or until ready to serve.
Tip: For an adult version of this sangria, use dry red wine instead of grape juice.

For more holiday recipe ideas, visit www.facebook.com/LiptonIcedTea.

(Family Features) The holidays are filled with occasions to see loved ones, relatives and old friends. With plenty of holiday parties and photo opportunities, you want to look your best even if you don’t have hours to spend at the salon.
Style expert Lilliana Vazquez of CheapChicas.com offers some helpful tips on how to look sensational without breaking the budget:
Keep skin moisturized. With the dry winter air, make sure to keep your skin moisturized, especially when you’re showing more skin in cocktail dresses. One of Lilliana’s favorite inexpensive tricks that works wonders is coconut oil. It absorbs quickly into skin and smells amazing. You can also use it in your hair as a leave-in conditioner.
Add a splash of berry. There have been tons of berry tones on the runways, and one easy way to work them into your wardrobe is on your lips. A raspberry or burgundy shade is the perfect way to boost your holiday look. Make sure to keep lips moisturized before you apply. Try a sugar scrub or rich balm to keep your pout kissable.
Stay Smooth. One thing you want to avoid before you step under the mistletoe is unwanted facial hair. Make sure your face is smooth and photo-ready by using a depilatory or wax. “I love Nair products because they’re effective and easy on the wallet,” said Vazquez. “Try the Nair Precision Face & Upper Lip Kit that comes with a special rebalancing moisturizer so it’s gentle on your skin.” Learn more at www.NairLikeNeverBefore.com.
Show off your face. Don’t worry if you don’t have time for a blowout hairstyle. One of the chicest holiday looks is a chignon, which pairs perfectly with metallic-shaded eyes and strong lips that are hot this season. Try a low bun off to one side for a look that keeps the emphasis on you.
There you have it—some easy ways to look your holiday best without spending a lot of time or money. Now, that’s something to be merry about.