Hosting this holiday season? Here's an easy, elegant charcuterie board for you

Festive and unforgettable - hosting made easy: build a stunning charcuterie spread using artisan meats and thoughtful wine choices.
Friends partying during the holidays
Photo: OurWhisky Foundation/Pixabay


Family Features - When holiday occasions call for you to don your hosting cap, skip complicated appetizers and hors d’oeuvres to instead serve sustainable charcuterie with sommelier-approved wine pairings. After all, simplicity can still equal premium flavor with the right meats, cheeses and libations.

It doesn’t take a hosting expert or pairing professional to create a spread that’s as memorable as it is delicious. Charcuterie boards made with just a few ingredients can start the festivities on a high note by wowing loved ones with your pairing prowess.

Amaze your guests (and even yourself) by starting with heritage breed pork in small-batch artisanal production from Niman Ranch, whose independent family farmers and ranchers raise all animals with no antibiotics or added hormones ever. Their commitment to humane practices and sustainability leads to the exceptional flavor and tenderness your crowd craves and can taste in every bite.

Match the selection of meats – like prosciutto, genoa salame or capocollo in these recipes – with complementary cheeses and accents such as crostini, olives or even thyme-infused honey for an extra special touch. Finally, find the perfect bottle of wine for each board to round out a palate-pleasing spread that suits each guest’s preferred pairing profile.

With flavor, sustainability and a personal touch, charcuterie can bring holiday occasions to life for you and your loved ones. Check out NimanRanch.com to see more holiday season inspired recipes.


Prosciutto, Sottocenere and Aligote

  • Niman Ranch Prosciutto
  • Firm cheese, such as Sottocenere
  • Toasted crostini
  • Aligote wine



On a cheese board or platter, arrange buttery, silky prosciutto with Sottocenere, a firm cheese speckled with black truffle, or any firm cheese striped with dill or paprika or washed in ale. To round out these savory flavors, pair with Aligote, a white burgundy from France that’s citrusy but refined with hints of green apple and honeydew.


Genoa Salame, Vintage Grand Ewe and Syrah

  • Niman Ranch Genoa Salame
  • Aged, firm sheep’s cheese, such as Vintage Grand Ewe
  • Olives
  • Syrah wine



On a cheese board or platter, arrange genoa salame, featuring the rich flavors pulled from the spices and wine used in its making. Pair with an aged, firm sheep’s cheese such as Vintage Grand Ewe, with notes of toasted almond, maple syrup and cultured butter. The sweetness of the cheese gives way to the genoa salame to be the star. Finish the board with skewered olives and serve with an unfussy red wine low in tannins like Syrah.


Capocollo, Aged Cheddar, Thyme Honey and Txakoli

  • Niman Ranch Capocollo
  • Aged sharp cheddar cheese
  • Thyme-infused honey
  • Txakoli wine



Start your cheese board or platter with savory capocollo laced with pockets of cured fat that balance out the meat. Its mild smokiness works well with an aged sharp cheddar for a salty, intriguing but complementary match. Serve with a side of thyme-infused honey for herbaceous sweetness. Pair with Txakoli, a dry Spanish wine that’s easy to drink with hints of salt and pinesap.


More Stories Script - Christmas Holiday Articles

More Holiday Stories

TAGS: sustainable holiday charcuterie board ideas, best wine pairings for artisan meats, how to build a charcuterie board for Christmas gatherings, Niman Ranch heritage pork charcuterie tips, easy festive appetizers with meat and cheese pairings
Published on

Budget-Friendly ways to create a cozy, joyful holiday in your home

Small decorating changes can make your home feel more cheerful during the holidays. Cozy lighting, blankets and seasonal media invite relaxation. Personal projects and heirloom pieces bring emotional warmth. Scents, textures and outdoor decorations round out the festive experience.

StatePoint Media - As the holidays creep closer and the to-do lists grow longer, many women find themselves craving something simple—a space that feels comforting, festive and entirely their own. With just a handful of affordable, creative tweaks, you can transform your home into a place that sparks joy the moment you walk through the door.

Pile on personal touches

Research shows that everyday surroundings can make an impact on your overall mood - and when is a better time to foster some happiness than the holiday season? From warming up your space with cozy details to mastering the art of a quick room refresh, the right décor sets the tone for making magical, mood-boosting memories during the holidays.

Follow these simple, budget-friendly tips from Duck brand to create a warm, festive space that brings the spirit of the season to life.

Tip #1: Lay a cozy foundation. Make small, intentional swaps in your living space to create coziness in cold weather. Rather than harsh overhead lighting, drape glowing strand lights from the ceiling, and line tables and counters with battery-powered tapered candles. Play soft, seasonal music anywhere by using removable, double-sided tape to mount mini speakers; toss a couple extra blankets over the sofa to promote snuggling (bonus points if they’re in red or green!); and leave a stack of seasonal books or movies in sight to encourage unwinding in the living room.

Photo: Dragon White Munthe/Unsplash

Tip #2: Pile on personal touches. Science says that decorating with handcrafted pieces can evoke a sense of both accomplishment and connection. Display beloved childhood holiday crafts and family heirlooms, like ornaments or glassware. Then, carve out time to make your own unique focal point. With a little imagination and duct tape, you can DIY your own Instagram-worthy decor. Consider cutting red and green Color Duck Tape into letter shapes to personalize a festive banner for your fireplace, then use duct tape to make holiday-themed frames to display family photos from over the years.

Tip #3: Refresh your hosting hotspot. For family and friends who are visiting over the holidays, cement your kitchen as a go-to gathering space with a quick makeover. Cheer up countertops with a display of holiday mugs, hang festive towels and spruce up cabinet shelves and other surfaces with removeable, patterned shelf liner like EasyLiner Removeable Adhesive Shelf Liner. For a non-committal DIY that lasts only as long as you want it to, use the weathered wood pattern on a backsplash or kitchen island to add charming texture.

Photo: Ara/Unsplash
Tip #4: Engage the senses. Select seasonal scents to infuse into your surroundings. For a DIY alternative to candles, boil water with aromatic ingredients, like cinnamon sticks, cloves, orange slices and vanilla, in a simmer pot for a nostalgic scent, or place bags of dried pinecones in bathroom and coat closets. And of course – baking cookies will create a fantastic aroma in your home, too.

Tip #5: Bring the spirit outside. As you make your holiday updates, don't forget about the exterior. Try adding simple touches to high-traffic areas, like placing decorative trees or poinsettias on the porch, hanging a wreath on the front door, tying garlands to beams or hanging lights on the patio or garage.


More Holiday Stories

TAGS: cozy holiday home decorating ideas on a budget, simple DIY Christmas décor projects for families, how to create a warm festive atmosphere at home, affordable seasonal kitchen and living room refresh tips, ensory holiday décor ideas for a welcoming home
Published on

Guest Commentary |
Thanksgiving: Don't wait to say 'thank you'

One family discovers Thanksgiving far beyond the holiday table. Together, they reveal how gratitude can unfold long before Thursday arrives.


by Glenn Mollette, Guest Commentator

Glenn Mollette
We can and should celebrate Thanksgiving every day. Jesus told the story about the man cleansed of leprosy who returned to give thanks. He pointed out there were nine who experienced the same healing of their physical problem, but did not return to give thanks.

The Pilgrims celebrated Thanksgiving. They gave thanks for the rain, their harvest, health and the kindness of the local native Americans. They also gave thanks to God for their new life in America.

We know the difference between a thankful person and someone who complains all the time about anything and everything. It’s more fun to be around a grateful person than someone who can find something bad to say about anything and everything that is good.

There is a painting I love that displays a man with a bowed head, hands clasped and before him what appears to be a bowl of soup. In the painting he is giving thanks.

Our children and grandchildren all have a lot to learn in life and so do all of us adults. Two words that seem to be absent from many vocabularies are “thank you.”

We should say “thank you,” a lot. Say thank you to God and to all those who do even the smallest things for us and around us. It doesn’t hurt to say thank you two or three times.

Where did you learn to say thank you? Did your parents teach you? Did you learn it in school? Did you learn it from hearing someone else say it often? Or, have you yet to learn the importance of those two special and sacred words.

Thank you goes a long way. Saying thank you builds bridges, tears down walls and overcomes a lot of sin, evil and bad feelings. Thank people for being your friends, for their kindnesses, for their service, their faithfulness, their patriotism and all the big and small things from A to Z.

Don’t wait until Thanksgiving to say “thank you.” Give thanks to God, our public servants, your family, co-workers and more today and as often as possible.

I’ve already had several days of Thanksgiving. Last week we sat in my sister’s family room and spent time talking to one of our own who survived an aortic aneurism. We talked about the miracle of the many people who were involved in saving his life. We gave thanks and have many times.

We spent time eating chili soup and sloppy joe sandwiches and casually hanging out as family. They were precious hours of Thanksgiving. My wife and I spent an hour or so another day with my sister, her husband and son eating some early turkey, dressing mashed potatoes and pumpkin pie. You don’t have to wait until Thursday to have turkey and family fellowship. One evening we sat with my brother and his son and family just talking around the table while they were having hamburgers. It was a nice time of fellowship. On another day we got to volunteer with others to distribute Thanksgiving food to over 800 people and again we experienced a blessed time of Thanksgiving.

Thanksgiving can be any day, with any meal and a variety people. Whatever the day, meal or occasion, see the blessing of the moment and give thanks.


About the author ~

Glen Mollett is the author of 13 books including Uncommom Sense, the Spiritual Chocolate series, Grandpa's Store, Minister's Guidebook insights from a fellow minister. His column is published weekly in over 600 publications in all 50 states.


More Editorial Viewpoints

The views expressed are those of the author and are not necessarily representative of any other group or organization. We welcome comments and views from our readers. Submit your letters to the editor or commentary on a current event 24/7 to editor@oursentinel.com.
Published on

Tips for parents to minimize stress and maximize joy during the holidays

Here are a few practical strategies to avoid holiday stress and maintain your emotional well-being in case you hit a bump or two along the way.


Mom getting presents from her kids at Christmas

Photo: Nicole Michalou/PEXELS
Family Features - Stress and parenting go hand in hand, but during the holiday season, many parents find their stress levels rising to new heights. Between coordinating schedules, shopping, traveling and managing children's expectations - plus the disruption to the school routine that everyone had finally settled into - the season can feel more like mayhem than merry.

However, by thoughtfully planning and implementing a few practical strategies, parents can protect their well-being and support their families. Early childhood experts from The Goddard School share guidance to help parents stay grounded and make the most of their meaningful family moments this holiday season.

Clarify Priorities

One of the most empowering steps is to decide in advance what truly matters to your family. Consider:
  • Which traditions or gatherings are nonnegotiable?
  • Are there holiday events you can skip this year without regret?
  • What obligations are you taking on out of habit rather than genuine desire?
By reducing the number of "must-do" activities, you can avoid overextending your family. It's OK to decline invitations when your calendar is already full.

Establish a Budget

Holiday spending can weigh heavily on your mind. Create a family holiday budget that includes gifts and activities, then stick to it. Use the opportunity to teach your children about responsible spending and gratitude. Remember, the most meaningful gifts are often those made with time, attention or creativity, not the highest price tag.

Set Boundaries

Stress often arises when family dynamics, expectations or traditions clash. You can reduce this by setting boundaries and communicating them early. Speak openly with the relatives and friends you'll see about what's comfortable for your family and what isn't (e.g., physical space, travel, topics to avoid). Let your children know what to expect, as the lack of routine during this time can be particularly challenging. Modeling clear boundaries helps your children learn to express their own needs, too.

Prioritize Your Physical and Emotional Health

Amid the hustle, your own basic care often slips, but your well-being is key to being present for others. Consider establishing routines, such as: * Sleep: Aim for 7-8 hours per night whenever possible. * Nutrition: Keep healthy staples in the mix, even if treats abound. * Movement: A short walk, stretch breaks or gentle exercise may help reset your nervous system. Stepping outside can be especially helpful.

Also, if illness strikes, listen to your body and give yourself permission to pause. Pushing through tends to backfire.

Design a Stress Rescue Plan

Even the best-laid plans don't prevent tension or unexpected emotional triggers. Anticipate stress by creating fallback strategies. For example, plan to use a playlist, a quick breathing exercise or a sensory object to help you regroup when your stress escalates. These strategies work for children as well.

If you're worried about unwanted questions - such as a family member asking about politics or your plans to have another child - rehearse your response in advance with a friend. When these stressful moments arise, having a toolkit gives you a sense of control.

Unplug and Be Present

Screens are omnipresent. While they serve a purpose, they can be an unwelcome distraction, especially when you're spending time with loved ones you don't get to see often. Try to designate screen-free times, such as during meals, after dinner or when gifts are being exchanged. Use screens intentionally, such as video calling out-of-town family members, rather than passively scrolling. Focus on in-person connection by playing games, telling stories, making crafts or taking walks. Remember to lead by example, as your children are watching. Being fully present at key moments is the one gift your family will remember above all else.

As the holidays approach, the pressure to do it all can loom large. By clarifying priorities, setting boundaries and safeguarding your health, you can minimize stress and maximize joy. That said, even with careful planning, things can go off course, and that's OK. Practice self-compassion and allow for imperfections. Enjoy every laugh, surprise and even the occasional moment of calm.


More Related Holiday Stories


Tags: Listen to your body if you get sick, create fallback strategies in case plans fail, Don't worry if things to go perfect, Many parents find their stress level rise during the holiday season, Giving meaningful gifts are better
Published on

Commentary | American holiday efficiency, a three-for-one on June 14

by Peter Olson
Guest Commentator

On Valentine’s Day, upstate Congresswoman Claudia Tenney (R-N.Y.) showed her devotion - not with roses or chocolates, but with a bill to make June 14, Donald J. Trump’s Birthday and Flag Day, a federal holiday. Lucky guy.

Her proposed Trump’s Birthday and Flag Day Holiday Establishment Act would solidify the day as an official national holiday, aligning with Flag Day, which has been observed since 1777 to commemorate the adoption of the U.S. flag. If passed, the holiday would take effect in 2026, just in time for America’s 250th birthday and Trump’s 80th.

A Tribute to Trump’s Legacy
Tenny said: "No modern president has been more pivotal for our country than Donald J. Trump. As both our 45th and 47th President, he is the most consequential President in modern American history, leading our country at a time of great international and domestic turmoil."

She added, "Just as George Washington’s Birthday is codified as a federal holiday, this bill will add Trump’s Birthday to this list, recognizing him as the founder of America’s Golden Age," she said.

Given past rumors about the President, the gentle Congresswoman should probably refrain using the word "golden" and his name in the same sentence.

A Divisive Proposal
As with most things related to Trump, the bill immediately sparked immediate criticism in social media channels.

Critics on X and Reddit questioned whether Congress should prioritize a new federal holiday over more pressing issues like healthcare, inflation, and immigration reform. And then there are others, like comedian Billie Nelson who rolled with it in tweet:

>>> "OK, but hear me out! Let’s also make it ‘Traitor Trash Day!’ Benedict Arnold died on June 14, 1801, as a traitor, in England. Just putting it out there! 145 years later, another traitor was born..."

Will It Pass?
The bill does face an uphill battle in Congress as historically, establishing a federal holiday tends to involve bipartisan negotiations — though not always unanimous support. For example, Juneteenth National Independence Day (2021) passed with overwhelming bipartisan backing, while Martin Luther King Jr. Day (1983) faced strong opposition before eventually becoming law. However, given the current make up of the House and Senate, the proposal isn’t entirely without momentum.

The likelihood of the bill becoming law remains uncertain but ChatGPT confidently said, "Let’s be real: this bill has about as much chance of passing as Trump staying off social media for a full 24 hours. But hey, politics is weird, and stranger things have happened."

June 14 could truly be a holiday for everyone, traitors and patriots alike.

We live in interesting times for sure.

Published on

Six ways to make this Valentine's Day super special

SNS - Celebrate Valentine's Day in a special and budget-friendly way this year with these unique and creative ideas. From thoughtful DIY gifts to romantic at-home dinner dates, there are plenty of ways to show your love without breaking the bank. Whether you prefer outdoor adventures or a cozy spa day for two, there's something for every couple looking to make this Valentine's Day memorable without spending a fortune. Here are six innovative ways to celebrate love on a budget and create lasting memories with your significant other.

Creative DIY Gift Ideas
If you're feeling crafty, why not try making some handmade love coupons? These personalized vouchers are a fun and thoughtful way to show your partner some love. You can get creative with the offers, such as a free massage or breakfast in bed. Another idea is to create a personalized photo collage featuring your favorite moments together. It's a sentimental gift that won't break the bank.

Related Stories ~
Romantic At-Home Dinner Date
Who says you have to go out to have a romantic dinner date? Cooking together can be a fun and budget-friendly way to spend Valentine's Day. Choose a recipe you both love, put on some aprons, and get cooking! To set the mood, light some candles, play your favorite tunes, and enjoy a cozy night in together.

Budget-Friendly Love Notes and Letters
Express your love with heartfelt poems and quotes written on small notes or cards. Leave them around the house for your partner to find throughout the day. You can also spice things up with a love letter scavenger hunt. Write clues on each note that lead your partner to the next until they find the ultimate message of love.

Outdoor Adventure Date Ideas
If you and your partner enjoy the great outdoors, consider a picnic in the park for a romantic and budget-friendly Valentine's Day date. Pack some delicious snacks, a cozy blanket, and enjoy each other's company surrounded by nature. For a more celestial experience, plan a stargazing night. Find a quiet spot away from city lights, bring a telescope or just enjoy the stars together. It's a magical way to celebrate love under the night sky.

Ready to pamper yourselves without breaking the bank? Why not indulge in a DIY spa day at home with your significant other? Whip up some homemade face masks and scrubs using simple ingredients from your kitchen. You'll be glowing and relaxed in no time! And hey, who says you can't unleash your inner massage therapist? Learn some couples' massage techniques to take your spa day to the next level.

Virtual Movie Night with a Twist
Looking for a fun and budget-friendly way to celebrate Valentine's Day? How about a virtual movie night with a twist! Coordinate your snacks and drinks with the theme of the movie you choose for the night. Get creative and pick a unique movie theme that both of you will enjoy.

Whether it's a romantic comedy marathon or a superhero showdown, make it a night to remember from the comfort of your own couch.Embrace the spirit of love this Valentine's Day by thinking outside the box and cherishing the simple moments spent with your partner.

Get creative with a few personal touches
These budget-friendly ideas are to help you get your romantic creative juices flowing in a meaningful way to celebrate your boo and create lasting memories without the need for extravagant expenses.

When customizing celebration ideas for different preferences and interests, consider incorporating personal touches or elements that hold special meaning to you and your partner. This could include favorite activities, foods, or locations that are significant to your relationship. To ensure that budget-friendly activities still feel special and romantic, focus on creating a memorable experience through thoughtful gestures, such as handwritten notes, surprise gifts, or planning a unique date night that shows your partner how much you care.

Whether you choose to craft a personalized gift or enjoy a romantic evening at home, the most important thing is the love and connection you share.

Share your most memorable
Valentine's Day

Valentine's Day is just around the corner and The Sentinel would like share your story of your most romantic Valentine's Day ever. Send us your story in 1,500 words or less for consideration in our daily upcoming V-Day vignettes starting February 7. We don't want Cupid's little tushy to blush so keep the stories PG and family friendly.

Send your submission to editor@oursentinel.com by February 4, 2025, for consideration.

Read our latest health and medical news Subscribe
Published on

A few tips for helping your Alzheimer's family member enjoy the holiday season

by Terri Dee
Illinois News Connection

Pay close attention to nonverbal cues when a patient appears agitated. Keep family gatherings small. Large groups can produce fear and confusion in those suffering from Alzheimer's Disease.

CHICAGO - The excitement of the holiday season is celebrated with family get-togethers. But for Alzheimer's patients, large groups can produce fear and confusion. The disease causes brain cell deterioration and the ability to rapidly process information diminishes daily.

Macie P. Smith, a licensed social worker and gerontologist, advised paying attention to nonverbal cues when a patient appears agitated.

"If you're going to have a small, intimate gathering, I also recommend doing name tags," Smith suggested. "Go ahead and put the person's name and the relationship to the person on the shirt, so that way they won't have to guess and wonder and try to figure out who this person is. It just helps with the ease of engagement."

Reminiscing over the family photo album is a traditional holiday favorite. Despite the best intentions, Smith explained, asking an Alzheimer's patient to identify a relative can be frustrating. The questions cause them to use brain cells that are severely impacted and could produce combativeness and aggression. She recommended singing or playing music as better choices.

The Alzheimer's Association Illinois chapter reported 311,000 caregivers cook meals, assist with basic hygiene and monitor medication intake. The needs of patients are unpredictable, leaving them with sporadic break times.

Additional stress from gift shopping and work obligations underlines the importance for a caregiver to routinely nurture their physical and mental well-being. Smith advised using a calendar for scheduling enjoyable activities.

"I've asked caregivers, 'So, what do you like to do?' They don't know, or they don't remember, because they have been so engulfed with caring for someone else and depleting everything that they've had, they've lost a sense of self," Smith observed.

For unmanageable situations, Smith recommends contacting a professional respite care service through your local department on aging. The agencies offer vouchers to pay a certified person to sit with your loved one. Another choice is asking for help from a church member, trusted neighbor or a Medicare or Medicaid-funded adult day service.

Published on

Guest Commentary |
Our cell phone dilemma

by Glenn Mollette, Guest Commentator


Do you miss the old telephone days? They weren’t that long ago. Back in the old days, all we had were landlines. You may still only have a landline but it’s becoming rare as more people depend solely on cell phones.

When you traveled in the past you had to find a pay phone to make a call. Pay phones were not that easy to locate and they were expensive. Today, pay phones are rare.

Hotel telephone calls were terrible. It cost a fortune to make calls from a hotel room. If you made several, you had a big bill to pay when you checked out.

Long distance calls used to be the pits. We have all had family and friends who lived in other counties or other states. You couldn’t talk to them very much because it could easily add $20 - $30 to your bill. Thirty years ago, that was a lot of extra money for a phone bill.

Today is the golden era of mass communication. We pay a price for our cell phone and we talk on it all month. I realize it depends on the plan you have. Overall, people use their phones and call wherever they want to call and talk as long as they want to talk. For just a very small monthly fee, I can talk to someone in most in any country at any time of the day, most of the time.

We’ve grown very reliant on our cell phones. We have to know where they are every minute of every day. Life becomes a dilemma when we can’t find our cell phones.

I have hundreds if not thousands of treasured family pictures on my cell phone. I contact all my family and friends on my cell phone. I don’t know their phones numbers. I punch in their name and their phone rings. All my work associates are contacted via my cell phone. I stay in touch with them by simply sending them a text or sometimes calling them. I would not know how to contact them if I lost my phone.

I do most of my work each day on my cell phone. I can gain access to my websites and other business support sites to do a lot of the work that pertains to my vocation. I send and respond to emails on my phone. My wife, children and I stay in contact through my cell phone.

The navigation feature tells me how to get to places I haven’t been before. Occasionally, if I get lazy, I pull an app up on my phone and about 40 minutes later I have food at my door. I check my airplane travel on my phone. I make sure my flight is on time and verify my seat assignment. The list goes on and on.

When my cell phone dies or is lost, it becomes a big problem. It becomes a problem not only for me but for other people who count on me to fulfill various work commitments and assignments. Of course, we all doodle on Social Media. Without our cell phones or tablets we would miss out on all the “junk” that we constantly see on Facebook, X, Instagram, and etc. Without your cell phone, you might not know what everybody else is doing. Back in the old days, the only way we knew what everyone else was doing was to listen in on our eight family party lines. If you don’t know what this is just ask an older person.

Often, the cell phone becomes a hassle. Multiple text messages from unknown people, politicians, scammers and others can become wearisome. We delete, block, unsubscribe and we still receive them. However, we can turn our phones off. We should definitely do this more than we do.

Please consider turning it off during your Thanksgiving dinner. Also, why not consider turning it off when you are having a dinner with your spouse or friend or family. Give it a break. We’ve all seen couples sitting in restaurants with each one of them starring at a cell phone. Give it a rest! Talk to people and make some personal connection with a real person.

We can all “live” life for an hour or two without looking at our phones in order to have some real conversations with real people. However, you’ll be comforted knowing it’s in your pocket or purse for your full attention at any given time.

Glen Mollett is the author of 13 books including Uncommom Sense, the Spiritual Chocolate series, Grandpa's Store, Minister's Guidebook insights from a fellow minister. His column is published weekly in over 600 publications in all 50 states. The views expressed are those of the author and are not necessarily representative of any other group or organization. We welcome comments and views from our readers. Submit your letters to the editor or commentary on a current event 24/7 to editor@oursentinel.com.

Published on

Area Holiday Event Calendar

Here is our latest list of area holiday events for Champaign, Ogden, Philo, Savoy, Sidney, St. Joseph, Tolono, and Urbana. Bookmark this page if you are looking for fun activities to do or unique places to shop this holiday season. in The Sentinel area. This page will be updated regularly with new events. Is your event not listed below? Send your event information to editor@oursentinel.com.


.::. November 28, 2024

.::. November 30, 2024

.::. December 1, 2024

.::. December 7, 2024

.::. December 8, 2024

.::. December 14, 2024


.::. December 15, 2024

.::. December 19, 2024

Published on

Enjoying the holidays, the Sentinel's guide to help you enjoy a mentally stress-free holiday

December 18, 2023  .::. 
Some really cool hosting hacks for your holiday party

Family Features - Entertaining friends and loved ones during the holidays offers an opportunity to slow down from the hustle and bustle of the holiday season and make lasting memories. The key is getting ahead of hosting duties so you can be present with family and friends.

Make this season's holiday hosting effortless and enjoyable with these tips:

Read the article »

October 29, 2024  .::. 
Stress-free Thanksgiving tips for those short on time this holiday season

StatePoint - While gathering for Thanksgiving is intended to be a joyous occasion, everyone who has hosted the feast knows it can also come with a lot of stress, and expenses.

The good news is that whether you’re a Gen Z-er hosting your first Friendsgiving on a budget or you’re a busy family preparing for guests, there is a lot to be thankful for this year.

Read the article »
November 17, 2024  .::. 
Holidays are no time to talk turkey, avoiding stress and tension around the table

The holidays are fast approaching. Families across the country will soon gather to break bread, exchange gifts and partake in each other’s company.

But the holiday season can also be a time that heightens unwanted stress.

Read the article »
December 18, 2022  .::. 
5 ways to celebrate with the holidays and keep your family pet safe

NAPSI - Most pet parents agree: their animals are part of what makes the holiday season so magical. While it’s an excellent opportunity to integrate furry family members into all the special holiday traditions and make memories together, there are a few things you should keep in mind to keep your pet safe ...

Read the article »
November 20, 2023  .::. 
Holiday celebrations are filled with triggers and temptations for those in recovery

CHAMPAIGN - It’s that time of the year when gift-giving, family gatherings, and cheers for the new year bring people together. Though it is perfectly normal to enjoy celebrations that are common around this time of year, the holidays can also be challenging for those in or new to recovery.

The holiday season is usually packed with social events, but this can cause people in recovery to feel lonely or anxious about the possibility of relapsing. For those who may have those concerns, it’s important they know that they are not alone - millions of Americans who are in recovery are also spending their holidays sober.

Read the article »

November 10, 2024  .::. 
Don't get snowed by holiday scams

BRANDPOINT MEDIA - Scams are unfortunately a fact of life these days. If it's not identity or data theft, it's credit breaches and scam phone calls. Many of us are getting scam texts, too. As the holidays roll in, the U.S. Postal Inspection Service (USPIS) wants you to know we are on the job, working to protect you and your mail and packages.

Read the article »

December 24, 2022   .::. 
Taking care of yourself during the holidays, steps you can take

StatePoint Media - With seasonal stressors like end-of-year work deadlines, gift shopping and hosting potentially weighing on you, plus all those extra sweets and indulgent foods to nibble on, the holiday season may be the happiest time of year, but it’s not always the healthiest. Here’s how to take better care of yourself to feel your best this holiday season.

Read the article »
December 14, 2022  .::. 
Grab a smaller plate this holiday season to help keep those cheerful pounds off


SAVOY - December and January bring bountiful holiday meals.

While it’s tempting to chow down, experts are cautioning about how overindulgence can make you feel mentally and physically crummy in the moment, plus open the door to long-term unhealthy eating habits.

Read the article »
Published on

Holidays are no time to talk turkey, avoiding stress and tension around the table

by Paul Arco
OSF Healthcare

The holidays are fast approaching. Families across the country will soon gather to break bread, exchange gifts and partake in each other’s company.

Photo provided
Therasa Yehling
Strive Trauma Recovery Center Manager
But the holiday season can also be a time that heightens unwanted stress.

According to the American Psychological Association (APA), nearly 90% of people feel some stress during the holiday seasons for several reasons – finances, the death of a loved one and potential family conflict. This year could be especially tough given the tension surrounding the recent presidential election. APA research found the election was a major stress point for 69% of people who responded, which was up from 52% in 2016.

“I think that people are usually stressed about being perfect, trying to do everything,” says Therasa Yehling, manager for the OSF Strive Trauma Recovery Center in Rockford, Illinois, and a licensed social worker. “It could be about money. Are they going to buy everything for everyone? And if you already have issues of mental illness, or having issues with money, it just adds another layer of stress. I think it's hard to deal with around that time.”

holiday gathering
Photo:KrakenImages on Unsplash

Before coming together this year, Yehling says families should have a plan. Communicate before that get-together and talk about how it might be best to stay away from certain topics. Instead, Yehling says, reinforce the love you have for one another and show compassion and concern for those family members and friends who are gathered around the table that day. It sure beats debating politics with your cantankerous uncle over a slice of pumpkin pie.

“Let's talk about fun things,” says Yehling. “Let's talk about how your kids are doing, how your parents are doing. Really talking about things that bring people together. I think that's important to concentrate on.”

If your family has engaged in heated discussions during past holidays, reevaluate your plan. Maybe this year you decide to only spend a couple of hours at your gathering, instead of all day. And if you know that tensions will be high regardless, Yehling says it’s OK to let your feelings known and to work with family members to make other arrangements this year.

“It's not fair to put people at a place that you know they can't rise to,” she says. “I need to accept that. I can't change them, but I certainly can change me. I can change how I react. And you don’t have to go. Go later. We can eat turkey any other time. We can do things differently.”

Surround yourself with people who love and support you.

Many people will be grieving this holiday season. It could be the loss of a loved one or pet, a job, health issues or even the outcome of the election. “When it comes to losing your husband or somebody you know, give them grace, give them that space,” Yehling says. “Let them have a tear or two, and they'll be alright. Let them be.”

And limit your time on social media. Yehling says the best way to avoid overreacting to information you read is to think carefully about responding to posts that cause you angst. Turn off your notifications and reduce the amount of time you spend scrolling through Facebook or X, for example.

Yehling offers other tips to help people get through the upcoming holidays. Don’t over schedule yourself, limit your travel, keep a regular routine, including healthy eating and exercise. Other reminders are managing gift giving, don’t overindulge when it comes to food and alcohol and take time for yourself. Remember to take a needed break from the holiday madness by reading a book, listening to your favorite music, going for a long walk or just curling up for an afternoon nap.

Most importantly, surround yourself with people who love and support you.

“It’s about who is around you and how you interact,” Yehling adds. “What do you want to do? How do you want this to go? Oh, I want to have fun. Then have fun. Put that effort, put that focus into it.”

Read our latest health and medical news

Published on
Subscribe to: Comments (Atom)

Editor's Choice

Illinois Governor signs bill enacting immigrant protections in and around state courthouses

New Illinois law protects people attending court, making them “privileged from civil arrest inside state courthouses and with...

More Sentinel Stories