Contrast that with a retail experience youre likely to enjoy at Vinomania, Gary Deckers 11-year-old wine shop on Pearl Street. Decker greets visitors to the store with a smile and a ready base of knowledge of all things grape. Decker lives here, he spends his money here.

Perfect Christmas Gift. The season for Santa to prep his reindeer for that heavy load of presents. Lucy would tell us its the season of commercialism, you blockhead. But dont forget, tis the season of givingof giving hope and giving back, be it locally or globally.

This time of year the need to encourage families to sit down together at the dinner table seems unnecessary. Still, although it’s available now, Linda Hafner’s new cookbook is meant to nudge everyone into the kitchen all year long.

after the lighting for visiting and photographs. Celebrations begin at 6:30 p.m. Open house from 7:15 to 8:30 p.m. Free parking. Clinton Square. 448-8005..

Indie Rock Showcase. Wed. Nov. 24. 8 p.m. Local bands Professional Victims, Gracious Sakes Alive, Phantom Chemistry, Counterpursuit and Milking Diamonds get the pre-Turkey Day party started at the Westcott Theater, 524 Westcott St. $10. www.thewestcotttheater.

Anjela Lynn Michael Houston. (Leopard Lounge, Turning Stone Resort and Casino, Thruway Exit 33, Verona), 9 p.m. Neo Soul..