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Articles from the November 25, 2020 edition


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  • Why Not Keep It Local?

    Dan Stevens|Nov 25, 2020

    There are plenty of gift giving options, but the idea of showing off what makes our region special came to mind. And nobody can argue that our region has become the alternative energy capital of Illinois, we also have one other combination of things that would also make for an excellent gift option. Wine and Cheese Our region of Northwest Illinois is blessed with several truly fine wineries. For me, it's like throwing pearls to the swine – but my wife and friends, who truly appreciate good w...

  • Obituaries

    Nov 25, 2020

    Shannon Doris Marie Horner, 88 Doris Marie Horner, 88, of Shannon died at Liberty Village Manor Court in Freeport on Friday, November 13, 2020. She was born December 27, 1931 in Forreston on the family farm to Herman and Jennie (Ables) Swalve. She graduated from Forreston High School in 1949, and married Reynold “Pat” Horner on May 18, 1952 at Forreston Grove Church. She was a wonderful farm wife and mother all her life, dedicating herself to her family. She loved the farm life with Pat and supported him faithfully, especially as his sole car... Full story

  • The Time To Shop Local Is Now

    Nicole Haas|Nov 25, 2020

    Maybe it is the early cold snap in October, daylight savings time, the exhaustion from current events, or weariness of COVID-19, but we could all use some holiday cheer to get us in the mood for better things to come! This weekend Downtown Freeport and Lena are rolling out their best holiday merchandise, specials and holiday hospitality for shoppers around the region. There is no better time to stop in and see the tremendous things our local merchants and businesses are offering for everyone on...

  • Most Popular Gifts On The Internet

    Dan Stevens|Nov 25, 2020

    I did a little research, and combed through Amazon and EBAY to find out what were the most popular gifts people were buying online this year. And while some of them made perfect sense and I wouldn't mind having it myself, there were some items that I am positive are being promoted as being popular – but had to wonder who in their right mind would ever want it. Be that as it may, here were the results, so you can judge for yourself. 15. Couch Coaster ($25 price range) Actually a pretty i...

  • Holiday Gift Giving Tips

    Dan Stevens|Nov 25, 2020

    With an Aunt who "literally" gave me a box as a gift when I was 13, (Yup, a little plastic box only big enough to hold seven dimes in – even pennies didn't fit) I've learned a lot of lessons about gift giving over the years. So while many of you probably already know of the following lessons I've learned the hard way ... I will share them anyway. #1: If someone is really into something, DON'T BUY IT for them I know this sounds counterintuitive, but work with me here. I collect coins and s...

  • The Lighter Side

    Nov 25, 2020

    I should have suspected my husband was lazy; on our wedding day, his mother told me, "I'm not losing a son, I'm gaining a couch." My husband said he needed more space, so I locked him outside. I told my wife that when I'm gone, she'll never find another man like me. Without missing a beat she replied, "What makes you think I'd want another man like you?" It has been scientifically proven, there is one phrase that no husband has ever uttered – anywhere ... "Hun, I know where we keep everything in the house." Marriage is simply an endless sleepov...

  • Gift Giving Etiquette

    Nov 25, 2020

    The holidays are stressful enough without having to worry if you've offended someone by tucking a gift card into their stocking. We found some answers from etiquette expert Myka Meier, who is also the author of "Modern Etiquette Made Easy", so here is her advice on some of the most common gift giving questions. 1. Are hostess gifts always required? What about if the invitation specifically says not to bring a gift? A) You should always bring a gift to someone's home. The host may say, "Don't bring anything" but they won't refuse your lovely...

  • Gifts For Under $10

    Nov 25, 2020

    Shopping for gifts is easier said than done sometimes. It's hard enough to figure out what to get for your loved ones, let alone what to buy for bosses, co-workers, dog walkers, secret Santas, or second cousins twice removed who deserve a little something, too. Worry no more, because we've compiled 45 amazing gifts under $10 that will make sure everyone in your life gets a little holiday joy this season. An adult coloring book Coloring isn't just for kids-adults can get in on the fun, too. Sasha O'Hara's "Calm the F*ck Down: An Irreverent...

  • Gag Gift Options

    Dan Stevens|Nov 25, 2020

    I know, I know, everyone always wants to give the perfect gift, but admit it – sometimes you need to find something that's just ... wrong! Whether it's for a white elephant gift, or something for that brother, sister or cousin who always gives crappy gifts so you want to return the favor ... check out some of these! 1. Prank Gift Boxes There are a ton of prank gift boxes you can find. These work especially well for a white elephant gift. When the wrapping paper comes off, the recipient thinks t...

  • The Best Gifts To Buy People During Coronavirus

    Nov 25, 2020

    In these times of social distancing, when we can't see our friends and family in person, delivering a gift to a loved one's door is a special way to show they're in your thoughts. If you have a loved one who could use a pick-me-up, we thought these unique gifts – from coronavirus care packages, to custom cards, to fun little novelties – would help lift the mood and give people a smile. Whether it's an in-person experience saved for later, a thoughtful personal gesture from afar, or a care pac...

  • Ten Worst Gift Ideas Of All Time

    Dan Stevens|Nov 25, 2020

    These are, without a doubt, the 10 worst gift ideas ever. They're so bad that you probably should stop reading right now. Just go away. I have to do this sort of thing. Because this is a Gift Guide, so I have to consider not only the best gift ideas, but also the worst. Those terrible, lousy, outrageously stupid gifts that somehow still end up being gifted. But you, dear reader, you do not have to consider all gifts, so you are free to leave. And leave you should. Avoid these bad presents. These...

  • Gift Boxes Available

    Nov 25, 2020

    The Lena Historical Society is taking orders for holiday gift boxes containing cheese from Torkelson Cheese Company (Muenster, Marble and Cheddar) and a beef sausage from AJ’s Lena Maid Meats. By purchasing these gift boxes you are supporting local businesses as well as the Lena Historical Society. All profits will go towards maintenance and expenses of the Lena Historical Museum. The cost of a Gift Box is $30 and will be available for pickup on Saturday, December 12, from 8:30 am to 10:30 am at the Museum located at 427 W. Grove Street in L...