Category: Lifestyle Tips

Atlanta /

Enoch Pratt Free Library: Food for Fines 2016

The Enoch Pratt Free Library is partnering with the Maryland Food Bank in the month of January for Food For Fines.

From January 4 to January 31, donate a canned food item at any Pratt Library location and receive a $1 off any library fine.

There is no limit on the amount of cans that can be donated. For example, 5 cans = $5 off of your library card fines. Canned goods must be unopened and unexpired to qualify. To participate, just drop the cans off at the Circulation Desk of your local Pratt Library branch.

“We are encouraging our library patrons to help fight hunger in the Baltimore area. This campaign helps our neighbors and helps you reduce your library fines,” said Carla D. Hayden, Chief Executive Officer of the Enoch Pratt Free Library. “The holidays are over but the need is still there. Baltimoreans and Marylanders stand by each other and this campaign is a way to continue the holiday spirit into the new year.”

In January 2015, the library collected more than 10,700 pounds of food for the Maryland Food Bank feeding more than 7,000 meals.

“The Food for Fines campaign is an inspiring example of how communities can come together to prioritize hunger,” said Deborah Flateman, President & CEO of the Maryland Food Bank. “It’s a win-win for everyone, and it’s a helpful reminder that hunger is a year-round struggle, one that doesn’t end once the holidays are over.”

Enoch Pratt Free Library

The Enoch Pratt Free Library, the nation’s first free library system, opened its doors in 1886, the result of the generosity and imagination of businessman and philanthropist Enoch Pratt. Mr. Pratt envisioned a public library where “races, ages, and socio-economic classes mingled and people could educate themselves – without cost,” and his passionate belief continues to guide the organization. Today’s Pratt Library – Baltimore’s public library and the Maryland State Library Resource Center – consists of the Central Library, an anchor library, 22 branches, two bookmobiles, Pratt Centers for Technology Training, and the Regional Information Center. The Library’s mission is to provide equal access to information and services that support, empower, and enrich all who pursue knowledge, education, cultural enrichment, and lifelong learning.

Maryland Food Bank
About the Maryland Food Bank: The Maryland Food Bank is a nonprofit hunger-relief organization, leading the movement to end hunger throughout Maryland. For more than 35 years, the Maryland Food Bank has partnered with communities across the state to distribute food to individuals and families in need. Through carefully-crafted programs, the food bank aims to meet the immediate needs of Marylanders while simultaneously working to find long term ways to reduce hunger statewide. Currently distributing more than 120,000 meals per day — nearly 44 million meals annually — the Maryland Food Bank will continue to expand its efforts until hunger ends. To learn more about the Maryland Food Bank, visit mdfoodbank.org.

For more information about the Pratt’s Food for Fines campaign, visit our website at www.prattlibrary.org. Also look for the Pratt on Facebook, Twitter, Flickr and YouTube.

Remember at the Enoch Pratt Free Library:  “Your journey starts here.”
 

 
 

prattlibrary.org  400 Cathedral Street  Baltimore, MD 21201-4484  p 410-545-3115  f 410-396-8134
Baltimore | Birmingham | Atlanta /

BJs Wholesale Club – Top Ten Toys Holiday Segment

On December 12, 2015 I hosted a Lifestyle Segment at Fox 45 WBFF news station. The purpose of the segment was to share this year’s Top Ten Toys from BJs Wholesale Club.

As the Spokesperson, I was able to discuss the following items:

Doc McStuffins Take Care of Me Lambie

Doc McStuffins Get Better Talking Mobile

Princess and Ice Castle Dollhouse: A BJ’s Exclusive

Star Wars Episode VII Jedi Master Lightsaber

Care Bears Sing-a-Long: A BJ’s Exclusive Bundle

Disney Frozen Ultimate Olaf

Miposaur with BONUS Recharge Kit

BJs has a variety of products for all age groups and delicious array of food items.  This is the perfect time to renew your membership before the new year.  Visit a local BJs Wholesale Club for your last-minute holiday needs!

Baltimore | Birmingham | Atlanta /

Christmas in Baltimore and Festive Activities

“Baltimore city is an amazing mixture of the historical and the modern and would be a great end-destination for any time of the year, but during Christmastime, it is something special. The community in Baltimore comes together in harmony during the holidays and offers some of the most charming and entertaining festive events. From residents creating a world-renowned light show to bringing in traditions and entertainment from across the Atlantic, Baltimore, Maryland is the place to be during Christmas. We’ve compiled a list of the many ways to enjoy the holiday season in this captivating seaside city” from the BLT.com

Click on the link to read more:  Christmas in Baltimore

Fitness /

Hyleys Slim Tea Lifestyle Option – Product Review

Hyleys Slim Teas –

Hyleys Slim Teas are 100% natural Green teas made with Senna leaves, and fruit flavoring that promote body cleansing, detoxification, and a healthy digestive system, all in a delicious cup of hot tea! Mild and pleasant in both taste and texture,the weight-loss enhancing properties of the Slim Teas offer consumers a safe, pound-shedding alternative to risky pills and surgery. 

Using only the highest quality ingredients, Hyleys Slim Teas are available in flavorful options like Acai Berry, Blueberry, Goji Berry, Pomegranate and Raspberry as well as a Five-Flavor Assortment. MSRP $5.99 for 1-pack of 25 foil envelope tea bags.

See www.hyleysteaonline.com for their entire collection of 100% herb- and fruit-infused, wellness teas along with Wooden Gift Boxes and Gift Tins perfect for holiday gifting.

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Product Review: 

Let’s be honest, I enjoyed too much comfort (and fast) food during the summer months.  After facing this harsh reality, I had to actively start my weight loss program.  Number one, I take pride in being healthy and monitoring my diet.  Number two, I’m petite and must be mindful of those “few extra pounds.”  Number three, it’s the holiday season and my wardrobe requires fitted a dress.

I received the assortment of Hyleys Slim Tea in the mail and honestly, didn’t know what to expect.  I am proud to share (with the use of moderate exercise) I have seen results from drinking the Slim Tea.  Yes, I lost a few pounds!

I would suggest reading the directions on the box which indicates the best time frame to drink the tea along with consumption.  This tea not only helps you lose weight but it also has a nice flavor.  I could taste the fruit infusion in each bag.

Remember, the tea also serves as a mild laxative but if you’re eating “clean” you should not have severe stomach cramps.  I am pleased with the results of the tea and encourage everyone to try it.  This is a great option if you’re seeking to lose weight without extreme measures.  Hyleys Slim Tea is affordable and can also be purchased online.  If you decide to try the tea and see results, please share in the comments box below!

Lean Diet

Moderate Exercise

Drink One Cup of Hyleys Slim Tea Before Bedtime

Amazon /

Prime Now: The Ultimate Destination for Thanksgiving Prep

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We can all relate to being in the kitchen cooking the biggest meal of the year and realizing you forgot the cranberry sauce, pie crusts or the roasting pan. Prime Now can bring customers these items and more in an hour or less so they can skip the trip to the store and continue spending time with friends and loved ones.

 

Beyond the food, customers can also find hostess gifts or “family fun” items, including the most popular board games that have been delivered in one hour through Prime Now: Jenga, Uno, Monopoly and Pandemic.

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In Baltimore, Prime Now is available from 8 a.m. to 10 p.m., seven days a week, and will be operating on Thanksgiving Day to help account for anyone that’s forgotten the butter, paper towels or other essentials. Two-hour delivery is free and one-hour delivery is available for $7.99. All Prime members can download the Prime Now app, available on iOS and Android devices, and will be notified when the service is available in their zip code.

Baltimore | Birmingham | Atlanta /

BJs Wholesale Club – Holiday Destination and Lifestyle Segment

The numbers are in. The National Retail Federation expects a solid 3.7 percent increase in 2015 holiday buying amounting to $630.5 billion – an astonishing total for just two months of sales.  However, they are tempering their glee noting that “…Americans remain somewhat torn between their desire and their ability to spend; the fact remains consumers still have the weight of the economy on their minds” and  “expect families to spend prudently and deliberately.”  The NRF also expects online holiday sales to increase between 6 and 8 percent this year, adding up to $105 billion.

What does this mean to the holiday shopper?  It means that consumers will be shopping where they know they will get the most gift-giving bang for their bucks.  And that’s where wholesale clubs like BJs step up with a tried and true value proposition. Not just in-club either. The online deals at BJs.com also fill the void of many Johnny-come-latelys to subscription online buying, because BJs has the power of expertise to seek out and offer exclusive deals on the most popular items this holiday season.

The experts at Selling Christmas have identified some of the  biggest trends this year, and for both online and in store gift buying, BJs members will see 2015 holiday favorites, such as:

 

Precious Metallics at Non-Precious Prices:

Straight from the pages of Elle Magazine: “Iridescent fabrics are the stuff dreams are made of. Seriously, try and look at them without being mesmerized. We predict that these fabrics will be a major street style staple. “

Glimmering metallic from copper to silver to gold can make any room or person look and feel glamorous.

·         Satina 8-Premium Cosmetic Brush Set with Travel Case – Get the look professionals create to achieve pro-perfect application of face and eye makeup with various brushes including an angled foundation brush, large eye shadow brush, smudge brush and more.   $19.99 In-Club Only

  • Moscow Mules Mugs – Set of two traditional stainless steel mugs with a long-lasting shiny copper finish and brass handle. The perfect drinking companion for cool, refreshing drinks year round. $17.99 In-Club & BJs.com
  • Crystal Bead Love Knot Stud Earrings – Pair these gorgeous round earrings with any look, day or night. Packed with dozens of round crystals, each 12mm earring possesses a startling amount of sparkle and shine. The base is not without its own elegance, combining the smooth cool of sterling silver with the warm richness of 14K yellow gold in a swirling design. IGI Appraisal Value $135 At BJ’s: $89.99 In-Club & BJs.com
  • Berkley Jensen 100 Sq. Ft. Gift Wrap Ensemble – Five rolls of premium wrap, gift tags and coordinating bows and ribbons in a variety of metallic hues for the holiday season. $14.99 In-Club Only

Winter White:
Even if snow doesn’t touch down, incorporating winter white is still a popular way for getting into the holiday spirit. Adding classic white ware pieces will elegantly contrast with reds, greens and metallics.

·         Berkley Jensen Write-and-Wipe Menu Board and Place Card Set – Let your dinner guests know what’s on the menu with this write & wipe ceramic menu board and six place cards. Use the included dry erase marker to write entertaining dinner highlights, a special dessert menu or messages of congratulations. The place cards can be used for table settings or labeling different dishes. This set is easily washable to reuse again and again. BJ’s Exclusive $14.99 In-Club & BJs.com

·         Berkley Jensen Swirl Chip and Dip Dish – Constructed of super-white porcelain, the attractive Berkley Jensen Swirl Chip and Dip Dish is the perfect vessel for favorite party snacks. The bright white color makes a nice background for special occasion fare, allowing the cuisine to take center stage. Dish has an 11.8″ diameter with built-in well for dip, olives and other snacks. BJs Exclusive $11.99 In-Club & BJs.com.

·         Berkley Jensen 5-Tier Buffet Server – Make the food table a display with this 3- or 5-tier buffet server from Berkley Jensen. Five stoneware trays can be used individually or as a unit, and the wire stand makes all dishes easy to reach. The trays are microwave-safe for convenient reheating and dishwasher-safe for easy clean-up. BJs Exclusive $29.99 In-Club & BJs.com

·         Berkley Jensen 3-Piece Graduated Porcelain Trays with Handles – Berkley Jensen Porcelain Platters are a sleek and modern way to serve food. With pierced handles for easy handling and three different sizes, you will host and serve with ease. Comes with a small (8″x7 5/8″x1 1/8″), medium (10″x9.5″x1 38″) and large platter (12″x11 3/8″x1 3/4″). $14.99 In-Club & BJs.com

LED Lights to Light up Your Life:
Think light emitting diodes (LEDs) are just for flashlights and cell phone displays? Think again as new products are helping to bring more seasonal glitter to homes.

  • Sylvania Color-Changing LED Garland  – Nine feet of color-changing LED bulbs intricately woven through garland is a perfect holiday accent to mantles, doorways or stair railings. Choose between steady warm white lights, steady multi-colored lights or continuously changing white to multicolored lights. The timer feature means the lights will only be on when you want them to be on without worrying about turning a switch on and off..$34.99 In-Club & BJs.com
  • 24″ Berkley Jensen Oversized Pre-Lit Gold or Red Ornament with LED Lights – Brighten up any front lawn with these festive oversized ornaments.

48″ Berkley Jensen Stacking Snowmen with LED Lights – Colorful and festive stacking snowmen bring a sense of joy to holiday decorations. The bright LED lights are both cool white and multicolor and the included timer function allows for energy-saving convenience. BJs Exclusive $149.99 In-Club or $179.99 (Delivered) BJs.com

Chalkboards

For a rustic and classic theme, chalkboards continue to be a stylish way to create conversation starters when entertaining.

  • Slate Wine and Spirit Notes, 3-Piece – These slate notes in assorted seasonal designs is such a unique way to label a gift for a wine bottle or to help label holiday cocktail fusions. $9.99 In-Club Only
  • Slate and Wood Paddle Serving Set, 13-Piece – Serve a variety of cheeses in an elegant manner with this 13-piece wood and slate cheese board. With black slate markers and white slate pencils, your guests will know exactly what they are sampling. Includes antique brown wooden tray with leather rope, black slate board, 3 stainless steel cheese tools, 4 black slate cheese markers and 3 white slate pencils $17.99 In-Club & BJs.com

Enjoy photos from the holiday Lifestyle Segment at WBAL News.  The serving platters, recipe, and ingredients used for the Cranberries Holiday Cooking Demo are compliments of BJs Wholesale Club:

Cranberry-Orange Chutney

Ingredients

  • 12 oz. Cape Cod Fresh Cranberries
  • 2 Tropicana Navel Oranges
  • 2 cups Domino Pure Cane Sugar
  • 1 cup chopped, toasted Wellsley Farms Walnuts

 

Directions

Pour cranberries into a food processor bowl. Cover and pulse in 2-second bursts, scraping down bowl with a rubber spatula, until the berries are coarsely chopped. Do not over-process. Transfer cranberries

to a medium mixing bowl and set aside.

 

Quarter unpeeled oranges and place in the processor bowl. Pulse until just coarsely chopped.

 

Combine oranges with cranberries in mixing bowl. Stir in 1½ cups of sugar and chopped walnuts (if using). Taste and adjust sweetness if necessary by adding more

sugar a little at a time.

 Pecan and Cranberry Crusted Salmon with Cran-apple drizzle

Ingredients

  • 2 Tablespoon Dijon Mustard
  • 2 Tablespoon Butter, melted
  • 2 Tablespoon Wellsley Farms Organic Honey
  • 1/2 Cup Panko Bread Crumbs
  • 1/2 Cup Chopped pecans
  • 1/4 Cup Dried cranberries, chopped
  • 2 Tablespoon Fresh parsley, chopped
  • 4 6oz. Salmon filets
  • Kosher salt and pepper to taste
  • Cooking spray

Drizzle

  • 1 Cup Fresh cranberry sauce (prepared according to package directions)
  • 1/2 Cup Apple juice
  • 1 Tablespoon Apple cider vinegar

Directions

Preheat oven to 400 degrees.

Add fresh cranberry sauce, apple juice and vinegar in blender and blend until smooth. Pour into a small saucepan and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for five minutes stirring often. Remove from heat. Set aside.

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DIY /

GuruNanda Essential Oils and Diffuser – Lifestyle Tip

GuruNanda 100% Essential Oils with Diffuser (www.GuruNanda.com), an aromatherapy gift set that features two different oils (calming lavender and uplifting peppermint) and an ultrasonic diffuser with a color-changing LED light to add to the sensory experience.

This would be great for:

  • Natural products and aromatherapy enthusiasts
  • Alternative beauty and wellness enthusiasts
  • A holiday party hostess gift
  • Affordable gifts/gifts under $25 (It retails for $19.99)
  • Gifts for the home
  • DIY spa-ers
  • The woman who has everything
  • Stressed out holiday shoppers who need to wind down or reenergize

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The kit houses two different oils – lavender and peppermint  — and an ultrasonic diffuser that disperses them into the air, where they release their wonderful natural fragrance and the healing aromatherapy benefits.    It can transform a room into a mini DIY spa in seconds.    The diffuser also features a color-changing LED light to add to the atmosphere.

Best of all, at only $19.99, it’s an affordable, thoughtful, one-size-fits all gift with tangible benefits.   It will be available in November at Walmart.

Beauty /

Spa Week: Holiday Gift and Wellness Idea

Give the Gift of Wellness this holiday season. The new gift card by Spa Week, Spa & Wellness BLACK, is the only spa and wellness card you will ever need, making a perfect gift for everyone on your list. It is accepted at over 8,000 spa and wellness locations across North America and may be used any time of the year without expiration. Special perks of this card include thousands of spas and hundreds of treatments to choose from, the ability to load in any amount from $10-$500, and the ability to use the card in multiple locations on as many visits as you choose. Visitors to spaweek.com can conveniently purchase Spa & Wellness BLACK, to be shipped in a gift box with a personal message anywhere in the United States.  Recipients will have the freedom to choose from thousands of locations and services, all while knowing that you have their long-term health, balance and happiness in mind. Visit www.spaweek.com to see the numerous spa and wellness locations that accept Spa & Wellness BLACK.

Black

“Spa Week encourages a healthy lifestyle and inspires people to pursue ways of living fuller lives,” says Spa Week Founder, Cheryl Reid.  “Consumers are seeking better ways to take care of themselves, taking responsibility towards maintaining good health and making important lifestyle changes.”

With Spa & Wellness BLACK people can choose to access spa and wellness services, medical grade treatments, holistic services and cosmetic treatments, such as: massages, facials, yoga, pilates, nutrition classes, acupuncture, chiropractic sessions and more. Premier brands across the US that accept Spa & Wellness BLACK include: Waldorf Astoria, Four Seasons, Rosewood Hotels, The Peninsula, The Trump Soho, Jurlique Soho, Hyatt, Hilton, Marriott, L’Institut Sothy’s and Fresh (LVMH).

In addition to Spa & Wellness BLACK, if you want instant gratification on www.spaweek.com, you can send an e-gift card to someone’s inbox immediately or at your requested date with a holiday themed background design. If you are looking for a corporate gift idea visit www.spaweek.com to learn about the unlimited uses of the corporate gift that offers something for everyone.

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About Spa Week Media Group, Ltd.

Spa Week Media Group, Ltd. is the leading health, beauty and wellness marketing company across North America. Through its website SpaWeek.com, millions of consumers from coast to coast benefit from an abundance of resources necessary to experience a healthier, well-rounded lifestyle, 365 days a year.  Spa Week was created and founded by Cheryl Reid, who hails from successful careers within the luxury spa industry and publishing spheres. Since its inception in 2004, Spa Week has continued to revolutionize the industry with the success of its biannual Spring and Fall Events with signature $50 spa services, life-changing promotions and a robust gift card program. For the past eleven years, consumers from all demographics have felt physical and mental relief and gained tools for healthier living by taking advantage of an abundance of spa and wellness treatments at an attainable price. Spa Week continues its dedication of delivering the best in health and wellness year round with its Spa & Wellness Gift Card, the premier spa gift card of choice by consumers.  Spa & Wellness BLACK is accepted at over 8,000 spa and wellness locations across North America.  In addition, you can also find select denomination cards sold in over 55,000 retail stores nationwide including Target, CVS, Rite Aid, and Sam’s Club and on SpaWeek.com.

Follow us on Facebook at Spa Week, on Twitter @SpaWeek and on Instagram @SpaWeek.  Share your Spa and Wellness Memories #SWBLACK

For more information, visit http://www.spaweek.com/ or call Julie Leventhal at (212) 352-8098 Julie@spaweekmedia.com

Fall 2015 /

Paul Mitchell – Giving Is My Style Campaign

Christmas and Thanksgiving’s right around the corner and everyone likes to give back during this time of the year! Why not participate in a great charity; striving to raise funds for Boys and Girls Club, Waterkeeper Foundation, Morris Animal Foundation, and many more.  Paul Mitchell has taken action on social media with the Giving Is My Style Campaign.

#GIVINGISMYSTYLE-Star

Paul Mitchell Mission:

This holiday season, we’re celebrating our commitment to live beautifully by giving, because that’s our style. Whether that means taking steps toward sustainability, helping families in need or supporting underserved kids, Paul Mitchell® believes in doing good for people, animals and our planet. Join our global family and share why or how you give back on Instagram or Twitter with #GivingIsMyStyle, and we’ll donate $1 to one of our favorite charities on your behalf.

MITCH-Gift Set w Hands AWG-Gift Set w Hand

Causes:

Bright Pink: Bright Pink is the only national non-profit organization that focuses on the prevention and early detection of breast and ovarian cancer in young women. We are proud to support their mission to educate, equip and empower women of all ages to be proactive with their health. @BeBrightPink

Waterkeeper Foundation: For more than 10 years, Paul Mitchell has supported Waterkeeper Alliance in their mission to protect rivers, streams, coastlines and other major waterways around the world.@Waterkeeper

Morris Animal Foundation: Morris Animal Foundation is a global leader in supporting scientific research that advances veterinary medicine. We’re proud to support the organization’s commitment to improving the health and quality of life for dogs, cats, horses and wildlife around the world.@Morris_Animal

Grow Appalachia: In 2010, Paul Mitchell co-founder John Paul DeJoria teamed up with Berea College to establish Grow Appalachia, a non-profit initiative that helps Appalachian families plant a healthy future. Over the last few years, the organization has produced more than 1.1 million pounds of healthy, organic food for thousands of people in five states. @GrowAppalachia

Boys & Girls Club: Paul Mitchell co-founder John Paul DeJoria grew up in an underserved Los Angeles community. During his youth, the local Boys & Girls Club provided a safe place for him to socialize, learn and grow. Today, our company is proud to give back to the Boys & Girls Clubs of America and their efforts to create great futures for young people.@BGCA_Clubs

Reforest’Action: Paul Mitchell Tea Tree proudly supports Reforest’Action, an environmental organization that plants trees worldwide, in the areas where they’re needed most. Join The Green Takeover and help us plant 500,000 trees by 2016.

Social Handles

IG: @PaulMitchellUS

Twitter: @PaulMitchellUS

Hashtag: #GivingIsMyStyle

Join us in helping with the cause by sending an IG Message or Tweet with the featured social media handles. I’ve already started working on the initiative and asking everyone to join me!  It’s just that easy but can make a big difference this holiday season.

[youtube height=”720″ width=”1280″]https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Fs4KCWsnBkI[/youtube]

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Baltimore | Birmingham | Atlanta /

Celebrate Thanksgiving 2015 in Washington DC – Delicious Dining

Restaurants throughout the nation’s capital are giving diners plenty of reasons to give thanks this holiday season by offering a cornucopia of culinary offerings to make Thanksgiving 2015 memorable.  Some have stress-free “to go” options while others offer a chance to celebrate in style with great service and no dishes or leftovers to tackle.  From classic American to Italian and Indian fare in the mix, Thanksgiving takes on an international flare for the feasting.

bombay-club

In anticipation of the gluttonous feast of turkey and pie that awaits this Thanksgiving, the classic Belgian French bistro Et Voila!, located at 5120 MacArthur Boulevard, NW, 20016, will host its annual “Stretch Your Belly” party.  Guests will have the opportunity to stuff their faces with unlimited Blue Bay Mussels Diablo with lobster cream, tarragon and cherry tomatoes paired with Belgian Fries and Affligem Blonde Ale, or choose the Coq au Vin with trofie pasta paired withBelgian Fries and a glass of Côtes du Rhône for an affordable $29.95 per person (tax and gratuity not included).  This special offering will be available exclusively during dinner service from 5 p.m. to 10 p.m. on Wednesday, November 25th.  For additional information please call (202) 237-2300 and visit www.etvoiladc.com.

Blue Duck Tavern at Park Hyatt Washington, located at 24 and M Streets, NW, 20037, will present farm-fresh options to tempt the palate.  Guests are invited to gather and celebrate as Chef de Cuisine Brad Deboy will artfully prepare holiday dishes that reflect the all-American spirit of the award winning Blue Duck Tavern with an array of tempting desserts to complete the experience.  On Thursday, November 26, Blue Duck Tavern will offer “brunch into dinner” service from 11:30 a.m. to 8:30 pm.  Guests opting for the Thanksgiving, three-course holiday meal will enjoy Blue Duck Tavern’s inviting ambience.  A bountiful selection of starters will be placed throughout the open-air kitchen for guests to help themselves to their first course.  Starters will include seasonal salads, breads, meats, and cheese to be followed by a choice of plated entrées and side dishes showcasing produce from regional farms.  Seasonal desserts, on display in the Pastry Pantry, will complete the Thanksgiving feast.  The holiday menu is priced at $110 per person for adults and $55 for children between six and 12 years of age.  Children under six years of age are complimentary.  Reservations can be made by calling +1 202 419 6755 or by visiting www.blueducktavern.com.

Those wishing to savor Blue Duck Tavern’s exceptional cuisine in their own home this Thanksgiving can call ahead and order their three-star feast to-go.  Orders must be placed by Thursday, November 12.  The star of the dinner for Blue Duck Tavern’s take-it-home Thanksgiving is a 10 to12 pound free-range roasted turkeyfrom the Earth and Eats family farm in Waynesboro, Pennsylvania.  The feast will also include two freshly baked breads and four traditional sides from the restaurant’s menu.  For the sweet finale, who can resist seasonal pies which are both included in the Thanksgiving package.  This all-American feast is designed to feed six to eight and is priced at $350, plus tax.

This year, Blue Duck Tavern is offering an additional add-on item for your Thanksgiving feast – a charcuterie and cheese board priced at $95 (tax not included).  This special offering includes a selection of domestic farmstead cheeses and charcuterie items, along with homemade mustard, seasonal preserves, spiced nuts, and crispy Lavash crackers; plated by Park Hyatt Washington’s very own Cheese Specialist Sophie Slesinger on a handcrafted wooden platter.  Orders must be placed by November 12, 2015 at 11 p.m., with pick-up available in the Pastry Pantry on November 25 from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. or on November 26 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.  To place an order, one must visit https://www.giftrocker.com/BlueDuckThanksgiving and be sure to specify the date and time of pick-up.

Cleveland Park hot spot, Ardeo+Bardeo, located at 3111 Connecticut Ave., NW, 20008, will be featuring a sumptuous three-course menu crafted by newly appointed Executive Chef Jonathan Dearden featuring some of the finest flavors of the harvest.  Menu highlightsinclude Roasted Butternut Squash Soup with orange walnut chutney and pumpkin seed oil; Shrimp & Grits, Anson Mills grits, Andouille and fennel salad; Smoked Turkey Rillette with cranberry-fig compote, pickled radish and rustic bread; Sweet Potato Gnocchi with cauliflower, sun dried tomato pesto, arugula, and truffle pecorino; Roasted Turkey Breast with pear and polenta stuffing, smoked mushrooms, confit leg and giblet gravy; Grilled Atlantic Swordfish with forbidden black rice, pumpkin puree and garam masala yogurt, as well as Slow Roasted Berkshire Pork Osso Bucco with spaghetti squash, baby root vegetables and fall bean cassoulet.  The dessert menu will feature classics taken to delicious new heights.  Highlights include Pumpkin and Ginger Cheesecake with pumpkin seed granola and vanilla ice cream; Chocolate Cappuccino Bar with coffee-Kahlua mousse and cinnamon anglaise, and Fall Spiced Apple Tarte with balsamic fig compote, taleggio and mascarpone ice cream.  The Thanksgiving menu will be served on November 26th from 12 p.m. until 8 p.m. and is priced at $45 per person and $23 for children under 10 (tax and gratuity not included).  Ardeo+Bardeo will also feature an extensive list of wines by the glass for this delicious day of gathering.  For reservations or additional information please call (202) 244-6750 or visit http://ardeobardeo.com/.

Thanksgiving guests at The Bombay Club, located at 815 Connecticut Avenue, NW, 20006, will be delighted to find a variety of Thanksgiving Day specials in addition to the full a la carte menu.  Executive Chef Nilesh Singhvi is preparing festive specials for the occasion including the Achari Turkey Tikka marinated with yogurt, garlic, pickled spices grilled in a tandoor oven and served with cranberry chutney, Brussels sprouts foogath, and sweet potato bharta for $20.50.  For dessert, The Bombay Club is serving a PumpkinBrûléewith hazelnut tart & cranberry semifreddo for$9.  The Thanksgiving menu is offered from 12 p.m. to 3 p.m. and for dinner from 5 p.m. to 9:30 p.m.  The Bombay Club offers valet parking for $8.  For reservations or additional information please call (202) 659-3727 or visithttp://www.bombayclubdc.com/.

Just across the street at sister restaurant, The Oval Room, located at 800 Connecticut Avenue, NW, 20006, newly appointed Executive Chef John Melfi is preparing a three-course holiday menu offered from 12 p.m. to 8 p.m., priced at $55 per person, excluding gratuity and tax.  Serving up flavors of the season in an innovative fashion, Chef Melfi will feature a menu that includes Foie Gras “Crème Brulée” with chestnut, sage, maple, puffed rice and plum jam; Fairytale Pumpkin Squash Panna Cotta with braised chestnuts, cranberry emulsion and crispy sage; Yellowfin Tuna Crudo with crispy sweet potato, blackberry, cornbread croutons and maple emulsion, as well asBlack Pepper Cavatelli with crispy bacon, cranberries, chestnuts, thyme and Winter truffle.  Main courses include Red Bourbon Turkey with oyster stuffing, Brussels sprouts, cranberry chutney and giblet gravy; Duck Breast with cornbread pudding, heirloom carrots, snow peas, pepitas and cider gastrique; Pan Seared Scallops with parsnip purée, wild watercress, Asian pear and preserved lemon vinaigrette, as well as Acquerello Risotto with toasted alba hazelnuts, compressed apples, dried cherries and Pecorino. To complete the meal, dessert options include Pumpkin Cranberry Bread Pudding with pepitas, brown butter gelato and a cranberry emulsion; Fallen Chocolate “Soufflé” with raspberry meringues and coffee panna cotta, and theHoneycrisp Apple Tart with cinnamon gelato, feuilletine tuile and rum caramel.  Valet parking is available at The Oval Room for $8.  For reservations, please call (202) 463-8700 or visit http://www.ovalroom.com/.

The newly renovated power dining spot, 701 Restaurant, located at 701 Pennsylvania Ave., NW, 20004, will be dishing up a classic Thanksgiving feast with a three-course, prix fixe holiday menu available from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. on Thanksgiving Day.  This special meal is priced at $49 per person, and $24.50 for children 12 and under, excluding tax and gratuity.  Executive Chef Benjamin Lambert will be preparing a variety of starters such as Roasted Beet Salad with caramelized labneh, pecans and pomegranate vinaigrette; Jonah Crab with kuri squash, cashews and grapefruit;Squash soup with ricotta, pumpkinseed oil and nasturtium ice cream, as well as Holiday Meatballs with fregula, almond, cranberry and gravy.  For the main course guests can opt for the Turkey Duo with sweet potato puree, stuffing, cranberry jam and gravy; Grilled Pork Loin with plum jam, potato polenta and piperade; Roasted Salmon with butternut squash puree, trumpet mushroom and blueberry kosho, or the Cauliflower Shawarma with sesame hummus, yogurt and lavash.  For the perfect ending, there is Chocolate Crémeux withmango whipped cream and fresh berries; Pumpkin Piewith cranberry sauce and cinnamon ice cream; Pecan Pie with marshmallow, sweet potato ganache and maple syrup,and Crème Brûlée with raspberries, praline cake and raspberry sorbet.  Creating the perfect ambience, 701’s live jazz duo of piano and bass will be performing during Thanksgiving service.  Valet parking is available for $8.  For more information and reservations please call (202) 393-0701 or visit http://www.701restaurant.com/.

1789 Restaurant, located in the historic Federal townhouse at 1226 36th Street, NW, 20007, will showcase a classic three-course Thanksgiving dinner in addition to its seasonal a la carte menu on Thursday, November 26th.  Executive Chef Samuel Kim’s three-course menu, priced at $55 per person (tax and gratuity not included), begins with a choice ofRoasted Beet Salad with rainbow beets, endive, candied walnuts, goat cheese, Meyer lemon confit and sherry vinaigrette or Butternut Squash Soup with pomegranate beurre noisette, rye croutons and fried sage. Traditional Turkey with roasted breast, confit leg, sausage-sage stuffing, pomme purée, cranberry sauce, mélange roasted vegetables and pan dripping gravy is the featured main course.  Restaurant-goers can complete their meal with a selection of desserts prepared by Pastry Chef Lauren Petri. Highlights of Chef Kim’s seasonal a la carte menu include farm fresh dishes such as D’anjou Pear Salad with frisée, radicchio, bacon lardons, candied Fresno peppers, feta and Kalamata olive vinaigrette; Fried Oysters with celeriac puree, champagne-crème fraîche foam and hackleback caviar;Bucatini Cacio e Pepe with shallots, mignonette pepper, Parmesan, coddled egg and white truffles; Nantucket BayScallop Crudo with apple soubise, French breakfast radishes, Meyer lemons, pickled fennel and celery hearts; Maple Glazed Ham with braised collard greens, vanilla turnip puree, roasted pineapple, turnips and Cognac-cherry pork jus;Rack of Lamb with spiced yogurt, eggplant caviar, rainbow Swiss chard, baby carrots and natural lamb jus; Scottish Salmon with spinach, fennel soubise and roasted fennel; as well as 35-Day Dry Aged New York Strip, a 12oz portion with bone marrow grits, horseradish cream, shallot and cipollini onion confit, new potatoes and Bordelaise.  1789 Restaurant will be open from 12 p.m. to 9 p.m. on Thursday, November 26th.  Dishes are priced from $14 to $47.  For reservations, please call (202) 965-1789. For more information visit: www.1789Restaurant.com.

Macon Bistro & Larder, the French and Southern-inspired bistro in Chevy Chase, located at 5520 Connecticut Ave., NW, 20015, will offer traditional fixings for purchase out of the Larder this Thanksgiving.  Macon Bistro’s culinary team, led by Executive Chef Daniel Singhofen and Chef De Cuisine Jenna Pool, will prepare classic side dishes to spice up any Thanksgiving feast.  Sides include: Stuffing; Cranberry Sauce; Casserole; Mac & Cheese; Collard Greens, and Sweet Potato or Buttermilk Biscuits, available in servings of four, eight or twelve.  Dinner packages are priced at $100 for four servings of all six side dishes, $150 for eight servings, and $200 for twelve servings.  Additionally, Pastry Chef Jameela Hassa has prepared two nine-inch pies that will be available for purchase: Sweet Potato and Apple-Brandied Raisin Pies, priced at $45 each.  Food orders can be made daily through November 20th and all pick-ups will be scheduled for November 24th-25th from 12 Noon to 5 p.m.  For more information, please call (202) 248-7807, or visitwww.maconbistro.com.

In Old Town, Alexandria, The Majestic Cafe, located at 911 King Street, 22314, is offering up delicious specials which will be available in addition to their regular a la carte menu this Thanksgiving.  The menu at The Majestic, prepared by Corporate Executive Chef Graham Duncan and Executive Chef Lisa Marie Frantz, features classic dishes with a Southern twist, with a big emphasis on what’s local and in season.  Specials that will be available this holiday include Whiskey Barrel Smoked Fields of Athenry Farm Tom Turkey with cranberry and roasted chestnut bread pudding; Pan Braised Escarole with fried garlic and Virginia wildflower honey; Papa Weaver’s Maple Brined Berkshire Pork Chop with sweet potato puree and braised savoy cabbage with Virginia ham and green apples; Farro & Toasted Almond Pilaf with baked kabocha squash casserole and Brussels sprout leaves with cream and hard cider.  For dessert, guests can opt for theCinnamon Red Hot Apple Cobbler with local apples, cinnamon Red Hots and whipped crème fraîche.  Specials are priced from $22 to $27 each.  The Majestic will be serving from 2 p.m. to 9 p.m. on Thursday, November 26th.  For more information please call (703) 837 – 9117 or visit www.majesticcafe.net.

nopa Kitchen + Bar, Ashok Bajaj’s American brasserie located at 800 F Street, NW, 20004, is offering a few festive specials in addition to its a la carte menu this Thanksgiving.  Prepared by Executive Chef Matt Kuhn, standouts includeRoasted Heritage Turkey Breast Roulade with grain mustard potato puree, farro & oyster mushroom stuffing and cranberry-sausage jus; Beef Coulotte Steak “Frites” with red vein-spinach, crispy fingerlings and horseradish-red wine crème fraiche;Grilled Moulard Duck Breast with tatsoi, brown butter squash puree, crackling crumble and roasted fig jus, as well asGrilled Roseda Farms NY Strip withwinter truffle-celery root puree, compressed caviar, sunny quail egg, rainbow chard and lobster jus.  To complete the meal on a sweet note, seasonal dessert offerings includeMaple-Cider Doughnuts with candied Benton’s bacon and house-made honey crisp apple sauce; Pumpkin Mousse Napoleon with gingersnap cookie and tiger stripe fig brûlée, as well as Rosemary Scented Apple Streusel with cider caramel sauce and bourbon-cinnamon ice cream.  The Thanksgiving menu will be available from 11 p.m. to 9 p.m. on Thursday, November 26th.  For reservations or more information, please call (202) 347-4667 or visit the website http://nopadc.com/.

Met Bethesda, located at 7101 Democracy Blvd., Bethesda, MD, 20817, on the mezzanine level of Westfield Montgomery, is offering two festive specials in addition to its a la carte menu this Thanksgiving.  Prepared by Chef de CuisineAndrew Kern, the Salt Crusted Red Snapper with herb scented roasted baby potatoes and broccolini, serves two people and is priced at $35.  For the perfect pairing, guests can enjoy a Limoncello Pomegranate Prosecco priced at $14.  The Met will be serving these holiday specials during lunch and dinner service from 11:30 AM to 10 PM on November 13th-14th and 20th-21st, as well as December 11th-12th and 18th-19th.  For reservations or additional information, please call (301) 767-1900 or visit www.metbethesdamd.com. 

 Rasika West End, located at 1190 New Hampshire Avenue, NW, 20037, is offering a special Thanksgiving dish in addition to the a la carte menu.  Prepared by Group Executive Chef Vikram Sunderam, guests can enjoy the flavorfulTurkey Kofta Biryani, spiced turkey dumpling cooked in a sealed pot with aromatic basmati rice, flavored with stone flower and star anise, and served with butternut squash kootu, broccoli poriyal and cranberry raita. The featured turkey entrée is priced at $20, excluding tax and gratuity.  The complete a la carte menu is also available on Thanksgiving Day.  Rasika West End will be open for lunch from 11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. and for dinner from 5 p.m. to 10 p.m.  Valet parking is available exclusively during dinner service for $8.  For reservations or additional information please call (202) 466-2500 or visit www.RasikaRestaurant.com.

At its sister four-star restaurant, Rasika Penn Quarter, located at 633 D Street, NW, 20004, is offering an exotic Thanksgiving addition to its a la carte menu.  Prepared by Group Executive Chef Vikram Sunderam, guests can enjoy the flavorful Turkey Mussalam, charbroiled turkey breast simmered in a sauce made of cashew nuts, saffron, screw pine essence and cranberry purée, served with smoked butternut squash, broccoli amchor and saffron rice.  The special turkey dish is priced at $20, excluding gratuity and tax.  The complete a la carte menu is also available on Thanksgiving Day.  Rasika Penn Quarter will be open for lunch from 11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. and for dinner from 5 p.m. to 10 p.m.  Valet parking is available exclusively during dinner service for $8.  For reservations or additional information please call (202) 637-1222 or visit http://www.rasikarestaurant.com/.

Bibiana Osteria-Enoteca, located at 1100 New York Ave, NW, 20005, (entrance on 12th and H Streets side) will be offering an authentic Italian twist on Thanksgiving.  The prix fixe menu is priced at $50 per person, excluding gratuity and tax, and will be served from 1 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. on Thanksgiving Day.  Executive Chef Jake Addeo’s tempting starters include Frico, traditional Friulian Montasio cheese crisp with roasted sweet dumpling squash, prosciutto cotto and arugula; Carpaccio, big eye tuna with crab roe aioli, preserved lemon, chives and olio primo; Pinzimonio, local seasonal farm vegetables with fennel cream, lemon emulsion and herb salad, as well as Ostriche, crispy Well Fleet oysters withcreamed spinach and black truffle aioli.  Entrées include Tocchino alla Porchetta, roasted herb and spice stuffed turkey with fennel pollen mustard and Italian plum jam; Panzott, butternut squash filled ravioli with roasted chestnut brown butter and crumbled Brutti Ma Buoni, as well asSpigola, pan roasted rockfish with baccala mantecato, salt roasted sweet potatoes and crispy kale.Tempting dessert options include Zucca, ginger cake with Hubbard squash mousse, candied ginger and milk gelato; Torta, red delicious apple tarte tatin with candied walnuts and a cider reduction, or the Budino,robiolina custard with mocha syrup, amaretti cookie and zabaglione gelato.  Valet parking is available for $8.  For reservations or more information call (202) 216-9550 or visit http://www.bibianadc.com/.

Situated in the newly developed Southwest Waterfront, Station 4, located at 1101 4th Street, SW, 20024, will be offering a special four-course, prix fixe menu this Thanksgiving.  The prix fixe menu is priced at $40 per person, excluding gratuity and tax and will be served from 2 p.m. to 11 p.m. on Thursday, November 26th.  Executive Chef Orlando Amaro’s tempting menu starts with an amuse of Pork Belly with pickled cucumber, red sorrel and yuzu vinaigrette, followed by a choice of starters such as Beet Salad with goat cheese, pistachios, frisee and cumin vinaigrette; Cream of Butternut Squash Soup with truffle essence and micro chive; Crab Tartar with avocado, cucumber, lemon aioli, chive oil and wasabi foam.  Main courses include Lobster Ravioli, homemade ravioli with tomato butter and dill; Beef Tenderloin, seared Angus beef with bone marrow sauce, potatoes au gratin and asparagus, as well as Butternut Squash Risotto, farro risotto with Pecorino cheese and Brussels sprouts.  For dessert, guests can enjoy tempting treats such as Double Dark Chocolate Ganache Tart with black currant puree and French vanilla ice cream; White Chocolate Bread Puddingwith salted caramel gelato, or Homemade Gelato Trio (Chef’s Choice).  For reservations, or additional information call(202) 488-0987 or visit www.station4dc.com.

Lupo Verde, located in the bustling 14th Street corridor at 1401 T Street, NW, 20009, is offering a few festive specials in addition to its a la carte menu this Thanksgiving. Prepared by Chef de Cuisine Domenico Apollaro, the menu at Lupo Verde showcases authentic, rustic, Italian fare with standouts such as Zuppa di Castagne, chestnut soup with onion puree, squash chips and raisin walnut croutons; Tortellini al Tacchino, house-made tortellini stuffed with turkey ragù and buffalo ricotta in smoked bacon consommè, and Tacchino Inaspettato with turkey stuffed with seasonal vegetables, pork sausage, and pears, baked beneath cabbage.  Thanksgiving specials range in price from $12 to $26.  For a sweet finish guests can take pleasure in Torta di Melee Gelato alla Zucca, cinnamon and brandy apple pie served with butternut squash gelato, priced at $12.  The Thanksgiving menu is offered from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. on Thursday, November 26th.  For reservations, or additional information call (202) 827-4752 or visit www.lupoverdedc.com.

Located across Lafayette Square from the White House at 800 16th Street, NW, 20006, the historic Hay-Adams offers guests Washington’s most prestigious address with views overlooking the White House, Lafayette Square and St. John’s Church, the “Church of the Presidents.”   On Thursday, November 26, the Top of the Hay will offer a holiday buffet with two seatings available at 11 a.m. and 1:30 p.m.  Guests can anticipate contemporary American cuisine prepared by Executive Chef Peter Schaffrath and Senior Executive Sous Chef Jaime Montes de Oca, in addition to attentive service in a stately, elegant setting. Menu standouts include Carved Free Range Heritage Whole Turkey with fresh sage and celery stuffing, sautéed Brussels sprouts with caramelized onions and bacon, sweet potatoes and golden Yukon mashed potatoes rosemary gravy, and pear and cranberry chutney; Pan Seared Potato Gnocchi with fall vegetables; Vitello Tonnato, seared veal tenderloin and tuna with lemon and caper sauce; Compressed Watermelon Salad with tomatoes and yellow beets; Waldorf Salad, iceberg wedges with granny smith, red delicious apples, walnuts and Waldorf dressing,as well as Portobello Mushroom Raviolis with porcini sauce.  For dessert guests can enjoy a vast selection of sweet treats created by Pastry Chef Josh Short.  Highlights include the Persimmon White Chocolate Bread Pudding; Apple Sour Cream Crumble Pie; Spiced Cranberry Poached Pears; Butterscotch Pecan Cake; “Sugar Pie” Pumpkin Squares, as well as Maple, Pumpkin, and Vanilla Bean Crème Brûlée.  Additionally diners will receive complimentary house Champagne or house wine with their meal.  The Hay Adams’ Thanksgiving feast is priced at $110 per adult and $55 for children 12 and under.  For reservations, or additional information call (202) 638-6600 or visitwww.hayadams.com.

Legal Sea Foods is urging dinners to take a step back in time to the first Thanksgiving, when people were said to have dined on shellfish and fish.  The restaurant will offer its full menu for traditionalists as well as a Turkey Dinner with sausage stuffing, mashed potatoes, butternut squash and cranberry sauce that is priced at $21.95 per person (excluding tax and gratuity) and $7.95 for children 12 and under.  The Thanksgiving menu, in addition to Legal’s fresh signature seafood menu, is available at three Legal Sea Foods locations in the Washington area.  The hours on Thursday, November 26 are the following: 12 p.m. to 9 p.m. at 704 7th Street NW, Washington, DC, (202) 347-0007; 12 p.m. to 8 p.m. at Tyson’s Galleria in McLean, VA (703) 827-8900; 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. at Reagan National Airport in Arlington, VA (571) 551-5988.  For a complete list of locations please visit: http://www.legalseafoods.com/.