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...

AUGUSTA, MAINE – The Maine Department of Agriculture, Conservation & Forestry (DACF) announced that Gov. Janet Mills has proclaimed Nov. 29, 2024, as “Maine Grown Christmas Tree Day” to honor the valuable contributions of Maine’s Christmas tree and wreath industry. Maine’s Christmas tree industry, w...

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...

Winter blues got you down? Spending time outside can help boost your mood and both your physical and mental health. “Getting outside in the wintertime can really help your state of mind,” said Kris Kiser, president of the TurfMutt Foundation , an organization that has spent the last 15 years advocat...