October 2023 Newsletter
October 1st, 2023
Welcome to the Fun Enterprises Newsletter
September/October 2023
Holiday Celebrations
Deb Holland
As the holiday season draws near, there's an air of excitement and anticipation that fills the atmosphere. At FUN Enterprises, Inc., we believe that this time of year is all about creating enchanting moments that bring people together, fostering connections, and building memories that last a lifetime. We are thrilled to partner with various organizations to bring forth these magical experiences that have evolved over time.
In the past, holiday events have revolved around traditional elements like food and drinks, but we've witnessed a shift in the way these gatherings unfold. Our clients, ranging from corporations to colleges and private parties, have embraced a new perspective, emphasizing the creation of a warm and inviting ambiance that encourages employees, their families, and colleagues to come together and celebrate the spirit of the season.
In a world where remote and hybrid work options have become the norm, the significance of these holiday gatherings has grown even more pronounced. It's not just about celebrating with colleagues; it's about inviting spouses, partners, and children to join in the festivities. It's about bridging the gap between work families and personal families, blurring the lines between the two in the most heartwarming way possible.
At the heart of this transformation are elements that create an atmosphere of wonder and delight. The focus has shifted to experiences that engage the senses and spark creativity. Imagine a holiday party where participants gather around crafting stations, decorating cookies or painting ornaments. Picture the joy on children's faces as they interact with Santa himself or pose for photos with whimsical backdrops. These are the moments that elevate the holiday celebration beyond the ordinary.
And it's not just about the experience—it's about capturing those moments to cherish forever. At FUN Enterprises, Inc., we go the extra mile to offer keepsakes that hold the magic of the occasion. From photo snow globes that encapsulate the joy of the day to magnetic photos that find a place on the fridge, these tokens ensure that the memories made remain alive long after the season has passed.
What truly sets FUN Enterprises, Inc. apart is our commitment to making each holiday event a unique reflection of the client's vision. Our dedicated team works closely with you to understand your dreams, your preferences, and your company culture. We believe that a successful holiday event is one that captures the essence of your organization, creating an experience that resonates with everyone who attends.
As the holiday season approaches, we are excited to collaborate with returning clients once again for their annual parties and look forward to establishing new relationships with new clients and learning about their culture and traditions. Together, we'll weave the threads of joy, friendship, and creativity into a tapestry of enchantment that will be talked about for years to come. It's more than just an event; it's a celebration of people, of connections, and of the wonderful journey that the holiday season invites us all to embark upon.
So, here's to the joy of crafting, the wonder of creativity, and the beauty of bringing work families together. Here's to a season of magic, shared with those who matter most. We look forward to creating memories that will warm your hearts for many holidays to come.
Warmest wishes, The FUN Enterprises, Inc. Team
AC Anders (corporate)
[email protected] or 617-838-5691
Ken Abrahams (college)
[email protected] or 617-347-0720
Unmasking Halloween's Enigmatic Origins and Spooky Evolution
Ken Abrahams
October brings with it a peculiar air of mystery, excitement, and an undeniable anticipation for the spookiest night of the year: Halloween. This cherished holiday has a fascinating history that stretches back centuries, entwined with cultural traditions, myths, and a touch of the supernatural. So, grab your pumpkin-spiced latte and join us on a thrilling journey through the captivating history of Halloween!
Ancient Beginnings: The Roots of Halloween Halloween's origins can be traced to the ancient Celtic festival of Samhain (pronounced "sow-in"). This festival marked the end of the harvest season and the beginning of winter. The Celts, who inhabited areas of present-day Ireland, the United Kingdom, and northern France, believed that on the night of October 31, the boundary between the living and the spirit world blurred. They lit bonfires and wore costumes made of animal skins and heads to ward off roaming spirits.
A Christian Twist: All Saints' Day and All Hallows' Eve In the 8th century, Pope Gregory III designated November 1 as a time to honor all saints and martyrs, a day known as All Saints' Day. The evening before, October 31, was referred to as All Hallows' Eve. Over time, these Christian observances interwove with Celtic traditions, gradually transforming into the Halloween we know today.
Ghouls, Ghosts, and Goblins: Embracing the Macabre The association of Halloween with the eerie and supernatural can be attributed to its historical connection to Samhain. The belief that spirits roamed the Earth on this night led people to don costumes to either blend in with or appease these otherworldly visitors. The fear of malevolent spirits gave rise to the popular practice of carving pumpkins into Jack-o'-lanterns, a tradition that originated from the Irish folktale of "Stingy Jack."
Trick or Treat: The Evolution of a Sweet Tradition The concept of "trick or treating" has evolved significantly over time. It can be traced back to a practice called "souling" in medieval Europe. On All Souls' Day (November 2), the poor would go door-to-door, offering prayers for the deceased in exchange for "soul cakes." This practice eventually morphed into children going door-to-door for treats, with the threat of pranks if the treats weren't provided.
Candy's Sweet Reign: Halloween's Modern Confectionery Delight In the modern era, Halloween has become synonymous with candy indulgence. It's estimated that in the weeks leading up to Halloween, a staggering amount of candy is sold—hundreds of millions of pounds in the United States alone! From mini chocolate bars to candy corn, the variety of confectionery delights mirrors the diverse range of Halloween enthusiasts.
Globally Celebrated, Uniquely Embraced While Halloween has its roots in Celtic and Christian traditions, its celebration has spread far beyond those origins. In Mexico, the vibrant and colorful holiday Día de los Muertos (Day of the Dead) coincides with Halloween, celebrating the spirits of deceased loved ones with altars, offerings, and festivities. In Japan, Halloween has gained popularity in recent years, with a unique fusion of spooky elements and the country's own cultural influences.
A Modern Masquerade: Halloween Today Nowadays, Halloween is celebrated with grand parades, elaborate haunted houses, and parties that bring together people of all ages. It's a time for creativity to flourish as costumes range from the classic witches and vampires to pop culture icons political figures, sports stars and more. Halloween has also become a cherished time for communities to come together, fostering a sense of unity as neighbors exchange treats and delights.
As we gear up for another thrilling October 31st, let's remember that Halloween is more than just a day of spooks and scares. It's a tapestry woven with threads of history, culture, and the unyielding human fascination with the unknown. So, whether you're donning a costume, carving pumpkins, or indulging in a candy binge, take a moment to appreciate the rich history that makes this bewitching holiday truly enchanting.
As we bid farewell to what is left of the warm embrace of summer and welcome the crisp embrace of autumn, let the spirit of Halloween infuse your days with a touch of magic, a dash of mystery, and a lot of laughter. Happy haunting, one and all!
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Kids and Family
Halloween, Tuesday, October 31, 2023
89 Funny Halloween Costumes That Are Instant Crowd-Pleasers
38 Pumpkin Painting Ideas You Can Try if You’re Over Carving
49 Cheap, Easy DIY Halloween Decorations to Get Your Ghoul On
50 CHEAP & EASY DIY OUTDOOR HALLOWEEN DECORATIONS
Thanksgiving, Thursday, November 23, 2023
10 Tiny Steps to Get Your House Ready for Guests
A Guide to Thanksgiving Etiquette for Hosts and Guests
Ask AC
AC Anders, CMP
VP of Corporate Events
Have a question for AC?
Please email her directly at [email protected].
Special thanks to everyone for participating in this questionnaire. I truly appreciate all of you. I'm grateful and flattered by all the kind words. The best part of my job is working with all of you!
We had such a great response that we decided to make this a 2 part series! If you don't see your feedback here, look for our February 2024 edition for part 2.
Why do you reach out to AC for your event needs?
For this edition we are switching things up! We asked some of our clients this question and here are the answers we received:
I could not imagine going to anyone else for my event needs because when I reach out to you, I know that I am getting:
- Someone tried and true, who is reliable and would do everything in your power to ensure my expectations are exceeded, every.single.time.
- A partner and teammate - someone who cares about the success of my event almost more than I do
- Someone who is thoughtful - you give 110% to make my event the best it can be, and can provide laughter in those times when things may get crazy
Kimberly Meyer / Granite Gives Back
You are super friendly
Very accommodating (and you don’t get mad when we keep changing our minds. LOL)
Reasonably priced
So many options to choose from
Amy E. – Corporate Planner
1. I reach out to you because you have always been our contact.
2. You are quick to respond.
3. Always knowledgeable about different options available if you are working with a budget.
Angela S. – Event Coordinator
AC is – Responsive, Reliable, And Really really wonderful to work with - she is FUN!
Christine Altieri | Founder | AE Events
“I reach out to AC for my event needs because she always provides me with immediate assistance and this industry is very fast-paced. Her efforts are above and beyond, for example, she will provide me with a detailed document regarding my request including a description, photos and pricing to make decision making for myself and my clients SO simple. Lastly, every single time I do book with AC, the service is just as promised, and the attendees are always impressed. Hard to find customer service/execution like AC and her team!” -Breanna Winstead / GAME ON, Lansdowne Irish Pub & Music House, Avalon Nightclub & Vista Lounge
Don’t Keep It a Secret!
We can really use your help in expanding our reach and making new connections.
Have you had a program from FUN Enterprises that wowed your crowd?
Did one of our speakers really make an impact on your organization?
When you worked with our staff onsite was it an enjoyable experience?
If you answered yes to any of these questions, please don’t keep it a secret.
More than 80% of our business is repeat clients or referrals.
If you have had a good experience tell a friend or two or make an email introduction.
Whatever you’re comfortable with is greatly appreciated.
Thank you.
Join the FUN Team!
We are looking for Road/Event Staff!
Multiple positions available
competitive compensation
training provided
When you work events for FUN Enterprises you get to be a part of the best days in people's lives and provide a product that is, more often than not, the keepsake people hold onto to remember these special moments, and that's a pretty cool job to us!
Wayde Anders and Ken Abrahams - Co-owners of Fun Enterprises
Please email Donna at [email protected] for more information.
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On the Spot with Michael Miller - Part 1
Michael is answering your questions
1. Our students LOVED Michael! Was there a mentor or inspiration you had that encouraged you to literally take your series on the road? We are just so blessed you can give your talent to college students throughout our area and beyond!
I think my inspiration comes from two places – and two passions. The first is performance: I was involved in theater throughout all of my schooling and thought, perhaps, one day I would be an actor. The other passion is education (I held a teaching certification in English grades 7-12) and particularly working in the world of leadership development. What I am privileged to do today is a perfect fusion of those two things. Taking it “on the road” is really thanks to all of my clients who sought me out regularly to come to their campuses to support their leadership, staff, and student development efforts. After a time, there came to be so many opportunities to serve, that I began doing it full time. It’s funny, but if you told me many years ago that this would be my work and that this is how I would be living my life – I probably would have laughed. There’s a good lesson in this: when our talents and passions fuse around purpose, life kind of takes you exactly where you’re supposed to be!
2. How does he stay so Sexy????
I would hardly use that word to describe myself – so THANKS upfront. It’s not easy to “take care of yourself” when you live “on the road.” I would advise the following for everyone in no strict order: 1. Exercise when you can. 2. Eat sensibly. 3. Find a good moisturizer and use it every day!!
3. You travel across the country for work, do you have a favorite destination you enjoy just for fun? Why is it your favorite and how long has it been since you've been there?
Presenting all day in Boston and then taking the nonstop to Seattle and presenting the very next day there is a crazy way to live – but traversing time zones and distance can be very exciting and for me mostly, energizing. New craziness occurred this year also: I did my first TRIPLE – three colleges in one day!! Certainly, presenting in southern California and being “forced” to stay in a hotel beside the beautiful Pacific Ocean is a joy. Visiting Salt Lake City for the first time for a presentation was very memorable for me. Thanks to this life, I have been to all 50 states, but I have always had a strong passion for travel and even worked for United Airlines for a time, so I have always been enamored with being on the go! Believe it or not, I have some favorite smaller cities and airports that I highly recommend like the Quad Cities International Airport in Moline, IL and Outagamie Regional Airport in Appleton, WI! The most fun part is getting to spend time with old friends, clients, and even former students in places I wouldn’t get to go to otherwise.
4. How many days per year do you travel and what was the longest number of days you've consecutively spent on the road?
I spend an approximate 250 days a year on the road. The highest was 300 for a couple of years pre-pandemic! My longest consecutive stint of working “on the road” is 28 days straight. The hardest part of that is needing to be in one place for at least two days to be able dry clean my clothes, since I never check a bag. I have to try to plan for that prior to departing.
5. How many states have you done speaking engagements in and is there a state that you haven't presented in yet, but would like to?
While I have visited all 50 states, I have presented in 45 of them. I would love to present in Hawaii, of course. That would be fun! But I’d be most pleased to visit any state that I haven’t had the pleasure of working in. There are so many interesting places around our country and though I feel that I live in the most exciting place in the world, New York City – some of the smaller cities and towns I get to visit have awesome attractions and interesting local customs that make them wonderful places to spend time.
Don't see your question? Stay tuned for Part 2 in our December issue.
the FUN Starts Here!
It's Conference Season!
Stop by our booths at the following conferences
NEHRA - October 11 and 12 Booth #21
NEACUHO Springfield - October 12
NACA Syracuse, NY - October 26 - 28 - Booths #407 &409
NASPA Portland - Nov 12 - 15
ACUI – Nov 17 and 18
NACA Pittsburgh - February 23 - 26
Sam’s (Gluten Free) Picks
I love fall!
I start wishing and waiting for all things pumpkin by early August. Whether you are looking to impress your friends and family at Thanksgiving or make some homemade treats for Halloween this year, I have a few recipes to help you do just that.
Gluten Free Pumpkin Crème Cupcakes
Garnish with White chocolate Maple leaves and caramel acorns
Bear Friends Forever!
*Subject to Availability
Call 781-436-3187 or email
Ken Abrahams ([email protected]) for College/University Events
AC Anders ([email protected]) for Corporate/Private Events
News you may have missed :)
Health officials warn against cuddling your pet turtle.
Tennessee zoo says it has welcomed a rare spotless giraffe.
How all 32 NFL teams got their names.
The best cheap eatery in each US state.
Brainteasers
1. I have a big mouth and I am also quite loud! I am NOT a gossip but I do get involved with everyone's dirty business. What am I?
2. Imagine you are in a room full of water. There are no windows or doors. How do you get out?
3. What is always in front of you but can never be seen?
Kim's Corner
Click the links below for some great ideas, recipes, and FUN!
Now Booking!
College/Universities
Visit our Website for a complete list of our programs!
Contact Ken Abrahams
617-347-0720 or [email protected]
Corporations
Check out our Website for more perfect programs for your next event!
Contact AC Anders [email protected] or 617-838-5691
Call FUN today!
781-436-3187
Trivia
1. In colonial times, what were apples called?
2. What happens if hay bales get too wet?
3. What do you call a male turkey?
Gardening
Blog Spot
Welcome Class of 2027
For 20 years (1998 to 2018) Beloit College in Beloit, Wisconsin produced the Mindset List. It is a compilation of factoids about the group of First Year students that would be entering the school that year. This list worked off the assumption that most of the students were 18 years old. Thought it would be fun to create a list for the Class of 2027. This is assuming that most were born in 2005.
A Weekend in Akron Ohio Was Just What I Needed
It is also that time of year when conversations with clients are a bit longer and delve into deeper subject matter, as opposed to simply trying to provide and receive information about upcoming events. Recurring topics this summer were lingering challenges left behind by COVID, student engagement in general, the recruitment and the retention of student leaders, along with the lack of candidates to fill professional positions in student activities and residential life.
Trivia:
1. Winter bananas or a melt-in-the-mouths
2. They can spontaneously combust.
3. A gobbler
Brainteasers
1. A vacuum cleaner.
2. Stop imagining.
3. the future
Word Search
Differences?
Newsletter written and edited by Debra Holland
October 2023
