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.

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A delectable dessert for sweetie on Valentine's Day

Photo provided
Family Features - If you're going above and beyond a stuffed animal and boxed chocolates this Valentine's Day, try these Cheesecake Cookie Cups for a special homemade dessert. Made with love, it's a perfect combination of sweet and creamy. Visit Culinary.net for more sweet treats to share with loved ones.


Cheesecake Cookie Cups
Recipe courtesy of "Cookin' Savvy"
Yield: 12 cups What you will need:

2 packages (16 ounces each) chocolate chip cookie dough

Whipping Cream:
1 cup heavy cream
2 tablespoons sugar

Filling:
8 ounces cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup powdered sugar
1 cup whipping cream
crumbled cookies, for topping (optional)
sprinkles, for topping (optional)

Heat oven to 350 F.

In muffin tin, press three pieces of cookie dough into each muffin hole. Bake 15 minutes. Let cool 5 minutes then use shot glass and press into each hole. Let cool another 5 minutes and place on rack to cool completely.

With hand mixer, mix heavy cream and sugar until it thickens then add cream cheese and powdered sugar; cream together. Spoon into cool cookie cups.

If desired, use piping bag and pipe pretty edge around cup. Top with crumbled cookies or sprinkles, if desired.

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Guest Commentary |
Love anoints others

by Glenn Mollette, Guest Commentator


Valentine’s Day is almost here and how many valentines will you have? In elementary school we traded Valentine cards. We actually had a big box and we stuffed it full of valentine cards to our classmates. If we received 20 or 30 valentine cards then we felt good because we had a lot of valentines.

Glenn Mollette
You may or may not receive many cards this year if any at all. Nice cards are expensive as are flowers, candy and dinners. Whether you receive a Valentine card or not doesn’t determine the number of people in your life you care about or who care about you.

Some people may determine their self-worth by how many friends they have on social media. Are they really your friends? Possibly you go to church with a lot of people you care about and who care about you. Maybe you still have several family members you are close to and who love you and you love them.

We have so much hate in the world. Political parties are filled with hate. Many Democrats hate President Donald Trump. Many Republicans hate former President Joe Biden. Some Republicans and Democrats hate each other. Some people hate Elon Musk. Some people hate or love the Philadelphia Eagles.

People hate former husbands, wives, girlfriends and boyfriends.

Hate is obvious in the world. In many of our major cities there is a murder every day. Too often more than one.

What does hate accomplish? It’s a very negative emotion that has negative results. Someone often gets hurt where hate is involved. Hate hurts the hater. Hate does not create a spring of well-being and joy. Hate cuts deep within us and your body doesn’t’ react positively to this long-term dark emotion.

There is a line of demarcation. The Jewish people who had loved ones raped and murdered by Hamas don’t feel loving toward Hamas. The citizens of Ukraine don’t feel loving toward Putin and Russia. We surely understand their feelings.

Yet, somehow and some way in this life we have to find a way to rise above and to soar higher. It’s not always easy to love, but love covers a multitude of sins.

I don’t know how Jesus could love me. All my sins put him on the cross. Yet, over and over again, the Bible tells me that God loves me and for what reason? I have done nothing to deserve his love.

Try to show and tell more people you love them. Call some people this week and tell them you love them. Tell some Democrats and Republicans you love them. Tell some sinners you love them. You never know, some of the love you give just might come back to you.

When Mary anointed Jesus in the Bible, the entire house could smell the perfume. Jesus had the perfume all over him, but Mary also had the perfume all over her. Love anoints others but often we end up anointed as much as the ones to whom we extended love.

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.

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.


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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
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Luscious Red Velvet for your Valentine sweetheart

Photo provided
Culinary.net - On the sweetest day of the year, a day full of flowers, love and sweets, Valentine’s Day is the ultimate opportunity to try a different dessert meant for two.

It’s hard to resist a perfectly blended, rose-red, luscious Red Velvet Mug Cake that is sure to put a warm smile on the faces of those you love dearly.

It’s the perfect size, with just a handful of instructions, and it’s easily cooked before your eyes in the microwave. That’s right, the microwave.

This mug cake is a simple way to make something delicious and keep the portions small. Whether you have a small party, just you and your loved one or just simply want something easy and small, this quick treat is designed just for you.

Start by mixing all the dry ingredients into a large mug, including flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder and salt.

Then add milk, melted butter, vanilla and red food coloring. Use a spoon and stir the ingredients together until blended. Mix powdered sugar and cream cheese then drop the mixture into the cake batter and mix once more. Microwave the mug for up to 3 minutes until your cake is baked.

Valentine’s Day means sharing with someone how much you care, and it’s difficult to find a better way than to share something sweet.

This dessert has Valentine’s Day written all over it, however, it can be enjoyed anytime throughout the year and is perfect for a late-night snack if you’re craving something sugary-sweet.

Find more recipes and dessert ideas for every celebration at Culinary.net.


Red Velvet Mug Cake


Servings: 1

6 tablespoons flour
2 tablespoons sugar
1 teaspoon cocoa powder
1/4 teaspoon baking powder
1/8 teaspoon salt
1/3 cup milk
2 tablespoons butter, melted
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
30 drops red food coloring
3 tablespoons powdered sugar
1 tablespoon cream cheese, softened

In 12-ounce mug, whisk flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder and salt. Add milk, butter, vanilla and food coloring; mix until blended.

In small bowl, mix powdered sugar and cream cheese until smooth.

Drop cream cheese mixture into cake batter. Press into batter until covered.

Microwave up to 3 minutes until cake is done.

Read our latest health and medical news

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5 timeless Valentine's Day gift ideas

CongerDesign/Pixabay
Family Features - On a day that signifies the importance of love and companionship, many people find it rewarding to show their loved ones just how much they mean. If you're in the gift-giving spirit this Valentine's Day, you may find a bit of inspiration with these ideas.

Just remember, whether you're celebrating the relationship with your significant other or showing appreciation for a friend, the best gifts come from the heart.

* Food - If your partner is a foodie, a Valentine's Day date is an obvious choice. Make a reservation at his or her favorite restaurant or opt for takeout and enjoy quiet time together in the comfort of home. Satisfy that special someone's sweet tooth with a classic box of chocolates or create a personalized candy basket full of guilty pleasures.

* Jewelry - Whether you've been together a year, a decade or more, it's a perfect opportunity to splurge for a gift he or she will cherish for a lifetime. Necklaces, bracelets, earrings, anklets, watches and more all make for perfect gifts that can often be customized with engravings like names or important dates.

* Experiences - Oftentimes, the gift of moments together means more than a trinket. Consider the things you enjoy doing side by side and schedule a day or weekend to do nothing but your favorite activities. Book a tour at a local museum, find tickets to the next big game, sit frontstage for a favorite band or road trip to a nearby attraction for new sights and sounds.

* Subscriptions - Gifts don't always need to be sentimental. Sometimes, they can be downright practical. Creating an account for a new streaming service or music platform, signing up for monthly food or wine gift boxes and buying ticket packages for a favorite local team are all gifts that keep on giving.


* Handwritten Notes and Flowers - Take time to write what you appreciate most about your special someone - personality traits, favorite memories, thoughtful gestures and why they're important to you - and pair your note with favorite flowers. Gifts may spark a smile, but sharing a moment of connection offers a reminder of what you're celebrating in the first place.

Find more Valentine's Day gift ideas by visiting eLivingtoday.com.


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It's no secret, our readers chime in on where to go for a romantic Valentine's Day rendezvous

Urbana's Silvercreek Restaurant is one of many ideal spots for a romantic Valentine's Day meal. Photo: The Sentinel
URBANA - Last week, The Sentinel asked around, looking for advice on where are the best restaurants in the area for a romantic Valentine's Day date. Here are 16 responses to the question, "Where's the most romantic place to eat in Champaign-Urbana or Champaign County?"

The Wheelhouse in St. Joseph and Biaggi's in south Champaign garnered a couple of votes each. However, the most romantic spot for an intimate meal seems to be at home.


In the Champaign-Urbana area, Biaggi's or the Urbana Country Club. Umi Grill in Terre Haute has the best sushi in the area.
~ Brady S.
LaBamba's
~ Erin J.
Wheelhouse
~ Kelly C.
Texas Roadhouse
~ Kevin T.
Possum Trot, Sun Singer, and Hamilton Walker
~ Roger K.
I'll go with what he said
~ Brian B.
(pointing at Roger K. above)
Destihl in Bloomington
~ Kendra P.
Biaggi's
~ Nikki H.
Kathy's Kitchen! But if you want something more intimate, Silvercreek
~ Kathy M.
Wheelhouse. We go there at least once a week
~ Ashley B.
Home
~ Phil M.
I know I would be cooking a nice meal for my lady or go wherever she wants to go
~ Eric M.
Don't ask me. I'm divorced.
~ Julie A.
Our living room
~ Jason W.
Longhorn Steak House
~ Stephanie H.
Seven Saints or B'Dubs. I'm the least romantic person you'll ever meet
~ Megan W.

In case you are wondering, yes, we Googled our question. The top five locations in Champaign-Urbana on Trip Advisor at the time of this article were 1. Silvercreek, 2. Timpone's, 3. Nando Milano, 4. Hamilton Walker's, and 5. Biaggi's.

Where did you get lovey-dovey this Valentine's Day? Tell us in the comment section below.

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Share Valentine's Day treats with the flavor of love

Photo:Jonathan Borba/Unsplash
Family Features - Valentine's Day may traditionally be a lovers' holiday, but it's also an opportunity to connect with those who make your heart happiest, whether it's family, friends or anyone who enriches your life. Step away from the turmoil in the world around us today and celebrate your love and affection this Valentine's Day with thoughtful gifts that show how much you care.

As the old adage says, the fastest way to one's heart is the stomach. Sweet treats are a sure sign of your affection, and for centuries, chocolate has been revered as the flavor of love.

Ethel M Chocolates

Photo provided

From gifting to hosting and all the other moments throughout the season of love, you can delight your nearest and dearest with gourmet chocolates like those from Ethel M Chocolates.

Handcrafted with Care
Topped with a red bow for a final touch, the Ethel M Chocolates 5-piece Love Collection features a series of heart-shaped, premium chocolates nestled in an elegant box. The sampler features popular selections including Milk Chocolate, Lemon Satin Crème, Dark Chocolate, Milk Chocolate Peanut Butter and White Chocolate. This sweet collection of handcrafted chocolate is a decadent way to show how much you care. It's ideal as a thoughtful gesture of appreciation for friends and family, or for a more romantic connection, it's the perfect item to pair with jewelry or flowers to surprise your loved one.

Heartfelt Appreciation
If your gift list includes chocolate aficionados, there's no better way to speak straight to their heart than the Ethel M Chocolates 28-piece Large Heart Gift Box. This popular seasonal assortment showcases an expanded selection of mouthwatering, handcrafted, premium chocolates. The collection includes an array of flavors, from Dark Chocolate Sea-Salt Caramel and Milk Chocolate Raspberry Satin Crème to Milk Chocolate Almond Butter Krisp and Milk Chocolate Pecan Toffee Crisp. The gourmet variety is sure to delight, and the large satin-wrapped, heart-shaped box makes your affection deliciously clear.

Treat those closest to your heart to a delicious experience and visit EthelM.com to explore more unique gifts this Valentine's Day.

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Recipe: Irresistible Red Wine Braised Beef Short Rib Ragu

Red Wine Braised Beef Short Rib
Photo provided
Family Features -- Avoid dinner reservations and unseasonably cold temperatures this Valentine's Day with a delicious, romantic date-night dining that doesn't take you any further than your own kitchen. You don't have to be an accomplished chef to set the table for a memorable romantic dinner at home. You can take inspiration from simple, quality Italian dishes anytime to celebrate the link between food and love.

As with this and two other of our favorite recipes show, a romantic meal can be ready in minutes or, like a great love story, simmered to perfection. To plan the ultimate date night at home, start by choosing one of these dreamy main dishes made with a mouthwatering sauce. Whether you make the Red Wine Braised Beef Short Rib Ragu featured below, or the Italian Sausage, Spinach & Tomato Rigatoni, or the Creamy Italian Garlic Chicken, your romantic candlelit dinner will be one fondly remembered for years to come.

Flavorful sauces make a great Italian meal, but the sauce doesn't need to be made from scratch (at least, not completely). For example, Bertolli d'Italia sauces are made in Italy for authentically delicious flavor. They are crafted with tomatoes vine-ripened under the Italian sun, finely aged Italian cheeses, fresh cream, and Mediterranean olive oil. The result is a sauce that's perfect for your date-night meal.

Once you select your main course, prepare a simple salad of greens with a drizzle of Italian vinaigrette or Caesar dressing.

There is nothing better than a loaf of bakery-fresh Italian or focaccia bread warmed in the oven served with butter or olive oil for dipping. If you're so inclined, cap off the meal with a classic Italian dessert from your local bakery, like tiramisu, cannoli, or a creamy panna cotta topped with fresh fruit.


Red Wine Braised Beef Short Rib Ragu

Prep time: 25 minutes / Cook time: 3 hours
2 tablespoons olive oil

4 pounds bone-in beef short ribs

salt, to taste

ground black pepper, to taste

1 stalk celery, chopped

1 large carrot, peeled and finely diced

1 small onion, chopped

8 cloves garlic, finely chopped

4 tablespoons tomato paste

1 cup red wine

4 sprigs fresh rosemary

2 sprigs fresh sage leaves, chopped

8 sprigs fresh thyme

2 bay leaves

1 jar Bertolli d'Italia Marinara Sauce

2 cups beef bone broth

water

24 ounces pappardelle pasta or preferred pasta

freshly grated Parmesan cheese, for garnish

Instructions:

Heat oven to 350 F.

In 5-quart Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium heat. Season short ribs with salt and ground black pepper, to taste. Place one layer of short ribs in pot. Set remaining ribs aside.

Cook ribs 3-4 minutes per side until browned. Transfer to plate and set aside. Repeat with remaining short ribs.

Add celery, carrots and onion to pot used to brown ribs. Stir and cook until vegetables are browned, about 15 minutes.

Add garlic and stir 1-2 minutes. Add tomato paste. Cook 2-3 minutes.

Carefully pour red wine into pot.

Stir and scrape any browned bits from bottom of pot. Cook 3-4 minutes until wine is almost completely absorbed into vegetables.

Add rosemary, sage, thyme and bay leaves to pot. Add sauce, bone broth and browned ribs. Cover pot and place in oven 2 1/2-3 hours, or until ribs are fall-apart tender.

Remove pot from oven. Transfer ribs to plate or cutting board. Remove and discard herb stems and bay leaves. Remove bones from ribs then shred meat into bite-sized pieces using two forks or tongs. Return shredded ribs to pot with ragu. Stir to combine. Set aside.

Bring large stockpot of water to boil. Boil pappardelle pasta until al dente. Add drained pasta to pot with beef ragu and toss until combined.

Garnish with freshly grated Parmesan cheese.

Find more romantic dishes perfect for sharing at Bertolli.com.

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Date night dining: Italian Sausage, Spinach & Tomato Rigatoni

Family Features -- Planning a delicious, romantic date night doesn't have to take you any further than your own kitchen. You don't have to be an accomplished chef to set the table for romance, but you can take inspiration from simple, quality Italian dishes to celebrate the link between food and love.

Photo provided
With Valentine's Day just around the corner, this romantic meal can be ready in minutes or, like a great love story, simmered to perfection. To plan the ultimate date night at home, start by choosing a dreamy main dish made with mouthwatering sauces.

Everybody knows a flavorful sauce makes a great Italian meal, but the sauce doesn't need to be made from scratch (at least, not completely). For example, Bertolli d'Italia sauces are made in Italy for authentically delicious flavor. They are crafted with tomatoes vine-ripened under the Italian sun, finely aged Italian cheeses, fresh cream, and Mediterranean olive oil. The result is a sauce that's perfect for your date-night meal.

Once you select your main course, prepare a simple salad of greens with a drizzle of Italian vinaigrette or Caesar dressing. Pop a loaf of bakery-fresh Italian or focaccia bread into the oven to warm through and serve with butter or olive oil for dipping.

While the dinner candles are still lit, cap off the meal with a classic Italian dessert from your local bakery, like tiramisu from Rick's Bakery in downtown Urbana. You can serve cannoli or a creamy panna cotta from the supermarket bakery near you topped with fresh fruit.


Italian Sausage, Spinach & Tomato Rigatoni

Prep time: 10 minutes / Cook time: 20 minutes


Here's what you'll need:

  • Water
  • 1/2 box rigatoni pasta
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1/2 cup onions, chopped
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/2 cup mushrooms, sliced
  • 16 ounces sweet Italian sausage
  • 1 jar Bertolli d'Italia Marinara Sauce
  • 2 cups fresh baby spinach
  • salt, to taste
  • pepper, to taste
  • Parmesan cheese, for garnish

    • Directions:

    Bring large stockpot of water to boil. Boil rigatoni pasta until al dente. Drain and set aside.

    In saute pan over medium heat, add olive oil. Add onions, garlic and mushrooms. Saute until vegetables start to brown. Add Italian sausage and cook until done, breaking into small pieces. Add sauce and bring to low boil.

    Add baby spinach. Cook until spinach is mostly wilted. Season with salt and pepper, to taste.

    Add drained pasta to pan with sausage and sauce. Toss and divide between plates. Garnish with Parmesan cheese.

    Find more romantic dishes perfect for sharing at Bertolli.com.


    Did you use this recipe? Send us your pictures and we'll feature them on The Sentinel site! Email photos to editor@oursentinel.com.

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    Five ways to make Valentine’s Day awesome

    Photo: Sarah Pflug/Burst
    StatePoint -- Valentine’s Day is no longer just for the happy couples. Whether you’re married, dating or content being single, there are ways for everyone to celebrate love of all kinds, including romance in 2022, regardless of relationship status.

    1. Custom Cards. SmashUps from American Greetings can help prioritize love and romance any day of the year. There are SmashUps specifically for Valentine’s Day, with romantic messages from celebrities like Michael Bolton and Smokey Robinson. However, these ecards aren’t just for couples on Valentine’s Day. There are plenty of options for love and friendship, like hilarious videos of talking dogs, cats and koalas. The customizable ecards let you send personalized messages to your boo, your bestie and your brother for a variety of holidays and occasions.

    2. FaceTime. Couples who are separated by distance might have to settle for a candlelit FaceTime instead of the in-person dinner they had in mind. Luckily, romance in 2022 means technology can keep us connected, even when we’re apart. If you’re celebrating from a distance this Valentine’s Day, consider shipping gifts to your significant other or gal pals and opening them together while you’re on a video call, or make the same recipe and eat it together on FaceTime.

    3. Swipe Left. Many modern-day love stories start with a simple swipe to the left on a dating app. If you’re hoping to meet new people but aren’t sure where to begin, consider having some fun with online dating apps like Bumble, Hinge and Tinder. They’re not just for those looking for love. Many have friendship features, like Bumble BFF, which works the same way, but connects you with others looking for friendships too. This can be particularly useful for those who are moving to new cities, seeking roommates, or looking to network with others who are around the same age or share similar interests.

    4. Did Someone Say Galentine’s Day? Originally created by fictional character Leslie Knope in the television series “Parks and Recreation,” Galentine’s Day is all about female friendships and the laughter, joy and support they bring to our lives.

    Galentine’s Day can be spent as simply or elaborately as you please. Some gals might get together to exchange gifts of candles and fuzzy socks for the occasion, while others might have a glass of wine and gossip over a charcuterie board. For some, the holiday may just be a reason to call your friends and check in on them. Single or taken, Galentine’s Day is a reminder to glorify your girl gang.

    5. Self-Care. Being alone on Valentine’s Day can feel a little lonely, but the day doesn’t have to be painful. If you’re spending it on your own, plan a day at the spa, take a group workout class or cook yourself your favorite meal. Self-care is the perfect way to honor the strong and independent person you are.

    Romance in 2022 can be dinners for two with flowers and chocolate, but it can also be celebrating the mystery and magic of an ordinary day with a custom ecard, dinner with gal pals, or spending time doing things you enjoy on our own.

    Tell us about 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, 2022, for consideration.

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    Village Crier: January 4, 2021

    Local confectioner taking orders for Valentine's Day

    It is not too early to start thinking about Valentine's Day. Danielle Howard, a confectioner and stay-at-home mom from nearby Oakwood, is taking orders for her increasingly popular hot chocolate bombs.

    "Hot chocolate bombs are amazing," she said. "They are a thin layer of chocolate filled with hot chocolate mix and marshmallows. You put the hot chocolate bomb into a mug and pour hot water, or milk over the bomb and watch the magic happen!"

    In addition to making themed hot chocolate bombs for the most romantic day of the year, she is also creating breakable chocolate smash hearts and chocolate covered strawberries.

    "We already have orders for Valentine's day in our books!"

    Each bomb cost $5 a piece and orders can be placed via her Facebook page Dani Jo's Creations or message her Facebook.

    COVID-19 cases on the decline again

    The Champaign-Urbana Public Health District reports just one new COVID-19 case for our area. There are now 62 active cases spanning the six villages.

    According to the latest figures from the CUPHD today, Ogden has 3 active cases, Philo 15, Royal 3, Sidney 3, St. Joseph 17 and Tolono 20.

    Champaign County has reported fewer than 700 cases for 13 consecutive days.

    Runners finish their first race of the year, Plotner comes in 5th

    Five area runners, all from St. Joseph, have tucked their first race of 2021 into their belts on January 2 at the 37th annual Siberian Express trail race. The group made up 125 that finished this year's installment.

    To make the race safe to run during pandemic this year, runners competed against each in one of six waves and the field was limited to only 150 individuals. Competitors in each wave had a two-hour time limit to run the course through Kickapoo Park.

    The local contingent of runners was led by veteran harrier Corey Plotner who finished the 7.45 mile course in fifth place overall in 58 minutes and six seconds. The top area female runner, Amy Bailey, ran the same trail in 1 hour, 23 minutes and .51 seconds. She was the 19th woman competitor to cross the finish line and was 60th overall.

    Other finishers from our area included John North (24 overall, 1:10:25), Scott Hendren (68, 1:25:25) and Linda Berry (110, 1:51:05) who gave a high-five to a finish line worker as she crossed the finish line at 39th in women's division.

    Ribs and brisket in Tolono

    Traxside smoked brisket
    Photo provided

    How do mouthwatering ribs sound for dinner this weekend? Traxside at 4 East Holden in Tolono is now taking orders for carryout of their smoked Brisket, pulled pork and pork spare ribs pickup on Friday.

    Steak and baby back ribs are available Saturday nights, and regular menu items are available Fridays as well as throughout the week.

    "I recommend you pre-order beginning at 10 am on Friday mornings because we sell out fast," guest pitmaster Sean Talbott, who fell in love with cooking at the age of 5, told The Sentinel. "I smoke locally raised meat ... with locally harvested hickory and cherry wood, and allow the meat to smoke for 12 to 15 hours until fully cooked to the perfect temp. I strive to produce the best tasting and tender smoked meat around."

    Call (217) 485-1016 to place orders for Friday evening.

    A call to all local artists

    Carson Mills story

    Last spring, The Sentinel had the pleasure of publishing spotlight on several seniors in the Class of 2020 from St. Joseph-Ogden high school. It was then we discovered the amazing artistic talent of senior Carson Mills, one of three in a set of triplets, while writing dozens of stories in April and May. I was struck by her attention to detail and realism.

    Back in January of 2004, while taking pictures for The Leader back when it was owned by St. Joseph resident and founder Scott Hunter, this publisher, then a photographer, made a handful of images of author, artist and retired farmer Alvin Decker of Philo.

    Alvin Decker of Philo

    We know there are more artists in our area. We just haven't met you yet but would enjoy seeing fruits of your creativity. If you paint, draw, sculpt or do metal work, The Sentinel would love to feature your work and share your artistic talent. Do you spend hours at the potter's wheel, dabble in mixed-media, do glass-work or design jewelry pieces? We'd like to hear from you.

    Have you been more creative or had more time to focus on your art? One upcoming story idea we are working on ruual art and the pandemic. We are looking artists who have created unique art pieces over the past nine months that reflects life and living during the COVID outbreak.

    If you are interested in having your work featured in a story, please send a brief bio in an email with a link to your website or a online gallery featuring your work to editor@oursentinel.com. We very much look forward to sharing your passion and vision with our readers.

    Send your business, social or community organization's press release or event information to The Sentinel at editor@oursentinel.com.

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    Photo Galleries

    2025 Illinois Marathon Photo Gallery
    A couple of runners found themselves in the wrong race at this year's Illinois Marathon. Over 60 photos from the race that you should see.

    Photos: Sentinel/Clark Brooks