It’s unlikely that anyone aspires to be a last-minute holiday shopper. Putting off holiday shopping until the last minute can make for a stressful home stretch to the season, and there’s no guarantee store shelves won’t already be picked clean or that gifts purchased online will arrive on time. Desp...

The New York Department of State’s Division of Consumer Protection is sharing tips on how consumers can protect themselves from thieves trying to steal packages from their homes this holiday season. According to the National Retail Federation, holiday shopping on Black Friday through Cyber Monday, b...

I have become a fundamental part of the Christmas season in American homes, adorned with lights, ornaments and garland for over 200 years. Once the turkey is eaten and the weather turns colder, I know my time to shine is coming near. Oh, how I love this time of year – for I am a Christmas tree! The ...

The New York State Snowmobile Trail System includes more than 10,500 miles of snowmobile corridor trails stretching from one end of the state to the other, crossing both public and private land along the way. The trail system is administered by the New York State Office of Parks, Recreation & Histor...

Celebrate the festive flavors of the season with these Spiced Sorghum Cookies with Cranberry Glaze! Perfect for holiday gatherings, these cookies combine the cozy flavors of cinnamon and ginger with the wholesome goodness of sorghum. Topped with a vibrant cranberry glaze, they offer the perfect bala...

Winter is a time for relaxation. Whether you’re reclining by a brick fireplace or exploring the snowy treetops, the Garden State has tons of seasonal activities. Sometimes, however, it’s nice to just get away. Embarking on a journey to an entirely new winter oasis is the best way for locals to reset...

Why do most mothers today question their “mothering ability”? Maybe it’s those all-knowing experts, who are usually childless and blame every malady, real or imagined, on “bad mothering.” Or do we have a constant loop of fear playing in our own heads – worrying that we’re raising uncivil little hell...

Live houseplants can make meaningful gifts during the holidays or any time of year for birthdays, housewarmings and other special occasions. Not only do houseplants improve air quality in the home, but a growing body of research shows that the care of houseplants is associated with greater mental he...

The weekend after the Thanksgiving holiday (“Black Friday” onward) remains one of the busiest shopping periods in the U.S. annually. Brick-and-mortar locations don’t see the same level of traffic that they used to during the era of feral early-morning Black Friday shoppers, but the shopping continue...

Clearing snow and ice from driveways, sidewalks and parking lots is no small job. You rely on your outdoor power equipment to do the heavy lifting, and it’s important to keep safety in mind. The Outdoor Power Equipment Institute (OPEI) reminds home and business owners to use snow throwers, often ref...

Amaryllis bulbs and blooms make popular and appreciated holiday gifts. Gifted in full bloom to brighten the winter months or lovingly tended to bloom after the new year, amaryllis add vibrant color and joy to the dreary season. Amaryllis are commonly available during the winter holidays because they...

With Thanksgiving approaching, the New York State Departments of Health and Agriculture & Markets are providing food safety tips to help prevent foodborne illness and ensure a safe and enjoyable holiday with family and friends. “The holiday season is a time for family, friends and food,” State Healt...

Advent is observed in most Christian denominations as a time of preparation for the celebration of the birth of Christ at Christmas as well as the return of Jesus at the Second Coming. On the liturgical calendar, Advent falls between Thanksgiving and Christmas, and begins roughly four weeks prior to...

The end of the year is upon us and that often involves decorating a home in its holiday finest. According to Today’s Homeowner , nearly 70% of Americans plan to display outdoor holiday decorations. Among those choosing to decorate, 34% will do so before Thanksgiving. Everyone has a different vision ...

Health officials from state departments of health and agriculture are urging consumers to be aware of the potential risks associated with consumption of raw milk. Raw milk can carry harmful bacteria or viruses that may pose serious health risks. If you choose to purchase and drink raw milk, keep the...