Featuring new photos at least twice a week, this page offers our curated collection of photographs - community events, sports highlights, and everyday scenes - from wherever we find unique and interesting news. With searchable thumbnails and reader submissions, it’s the perfect place to revisit memorable moments and see featured images from the past. Here's a look at some of our past Photos of the Day.
The Sentinel On This Day | December 10
As December arrives with festive lights and winter’s chill, we revisit the stories that defined our community — from holiday traditions and year‑end reflections to local sports highlights, civic milestones, and spirited debates. Explore archived posts published on this day in December across Champaign County and beyond, curated by The Sentinel.
Sentinel Article Archive for December 10
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The Sentinel On This Day | December 9
As December arrives with festive lights and winter’s chill, we revisit the stories that defined our community — from holiday traditions and year‑end reflections to local sports highlights, civic milestones, and spirited debates. Explore archived posts published on this day in December across Champaign County and beyond, curated by The Sentinel.
Sentinel Article Archive for December 9
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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 within a 1,000-foot buffer zone outside of the buildings.
by Brenden MooreCapitol News Illinois
SPRINGFIELD - Christening it as part of a “nation-leading” response to aggressive federal immigration raids, Gov. JB Pritzker signed legislation Tuesday allowing Illinois residents to sue immigration agents who arrest them in or near courthouses or if they believe their constitutional rights were violated. The new law — which lawmakers have acknowledged is likely to face a legal challenge — also requires public colleges and universities, hospitals and child care facilities to set up policies for dealing with immigration enforcement and mostly prohibits them from disclosing the immigration status of students, patients, parents and children. “Together, we're sending a message to Donald Trump, to Kristi Noem, to Gregory Bovino and anyone else seeking to terrorize our people: Your divisiveness and your brutality are not welcome here,” Pritzker said, surrounded by state lawmakers and immigrant rights advocates in Chicago’s Little Village neighborhood. “We know that this new set of laws can't mitigate all of the harm, but it gives us new protective tools and is a symbol of our shared action against those terrorizing, our communities and our state,” Pritzker said.
Response to ‘Midway Blitz’
The Democrat-led state legislature passed the bill in late October during the height of the federal immigration enforcement campaign known as “Operation Midway Blitz.”Our rights follow us into the courthouse, onto campus, to the hospital and when taking our kids to day care
The Department of Homeland Security said the operation, which launched in September and wound down last month, resulted in the arrest of more than 3,000 immigrants who were living in Chicago and its suburbs without legal permission. Though federal officials claimed they were targeting the “worst of the worst,” DHS data indicates that most arrested had no prior criminal convictions or pending charges. The raids often led to violent confrontations between masked federal agents and protestors during various operations in the city and suburbs, including near an Immigration and Customs Enforcement processing facility in suburban Broadview. Many of these skirmishes resulted in the deployment of tear gas and other chemical agents. Bovino and about 200 Border Patrol agents under his command left Chicago for southern states last month, though they could be back fourfold this March, the Chicago Sun-Times reported.
Photo: CNI/Illinois Answers Project/Janelle O’Dea
Jose Jeronimo Guardian, 48, was detained for deportation in the Clinton County Courthouse on Monday, October 27, 2025, in Carlyle, as his daughter watched. The men who arrested Guardian declined to identify themselves and took him out of the courthouse in handcuffs. Guardian is undocumented and was attempting to go to a Spanish-language traffic court for charges unrelated to his immigration status.
Senate President Don Harmon, D-Oak Park, said the law “sends the message that if you abuse your authority, there are consequences.” “Our rights follow us into the courthouse, onto campus, to the hospital and when taking our kids to day care,” Harmon said. “No one gets to take them away. We are providing the victims of this chaotic federal assault a clear, legal path to go after their abusers and hold them accountable.” With Pritzker’s signature, all people attending court are considered “privileged from civil arrest” inside state courthouses and within a 1,000-foot buffer zone outside of the buildings.
Illinois Republicans have criticized the provision, arguing that it would have unintended consequences for state and local law enforcement.
Though there had long been a de facto understanding that such facilities were off-limits for immigration enforcement, they have increasingly been the site of apprehensions over the past year. Those who violate the act could be liable for statutory damages of $10,000. It gives people arrested under those circumstances the right to sue the agents who detained them.
Criticisms and potential challenge
The law also allows residents to sue immigration agents for violating their constitutional right to due process and protection against unreasonable searches and seizures. They would be able to collect punitive damages that can increase if the agents are wearing masks, concealing their identities, failing to wear body cameras or using a vehicle with a non-Illinois or obscured license plate. Illinois Republicans have criticized the provision, arguing that it would have unintended consequences for state and local law enforcement. It also likely invites a legal challenge from the Trump Administration on the grounds that it violates the supremacy clause of the U.S. Constitution. DHS spokeswoman Tricia McLauglin told Capitol News Illinois in an emailed statement that Pritzker “must be unfamiliar with the U.S. Constitution.” “By signing this law, Pritzker violated the supremacy clause, his oath he took as governor to ‘support the Constitution of the United States’ — which itself falls under the oaths clause of the Constitution,” McLaughlin said. “We hope the headlines, social media likes, and fundraising emails he did this for are worth it!” Harmon acknowledged in October that the law would likely be challenged, though Pritzker — one of Trump’s most pugnacious critics and seen as a potential 2028 Democratic candidate for president — said Tuesday that he believed it to be “in good shape.” “Whenever you enact something that is tough, that is about protecting people, there are going to be people out there who attack it,” Pritzker said. “No doubt they have the ability to go to court about it. But I believe this is not just a good law, but a great law.”Day cares, colleges and hospitals
The law requires all general acute care hospitals to implement a policy for interactions with law enforcement by Jan. 1. All other hospitals need a plan in place by March 1.The law also prohibits day care centers from sharing the immigration status of children or parents unless required by law.
Illinois colleges and universities will need to have procedures in place for approving requests from law enforcement agents attempting to enter campus by the new year. The law also prohibits day care centers from sharing the immigration status of children or parents unless required by law. It also requires the Illinois Department of Children and Family Services and Illinois Department of Early Childhood to provide “know your rights” materials and preparedness plans to families on their websites. Day cares will also need to adopt plans for interacting with law enforcement agents and notifying parents if agents request a child’s information. State Rep. Norma Hernandez, D-Melrose Park, said that the fatal shooting of unarmed father and Mexican immigrant Silverio Villegas González in September by an Immigration and Customs Enforcement officer after dropping off his two young sons at school and day care in the Chicago area “reminds us why this law matters so deeply.” “His death was not an isolated tragedy,” Hernandez said. “It is a painful reminder that without strong protections, everyday life becomes a place of danger, and that is where we are right now.” In addition to the law, Pritzker signed an executive order in October creating the Illinois Accountability Commission, which has been tasked with producing a public record of alleged abuses perpetrated by federal agents during “Operation Midway Blitz.” It will also examine the impact of such conduct on Illinois residents and communities and offer recommendations for accountability and reform. “His death was not an isolated tragedy,” Hernandez said. “It is a painful reminder that without strong protections, everyday life becomes a place of danger, and that is where we are right now.” In addition to the law, Pritzker signed an executive order in October creating the Illinois Accountability Commission, which has been tasked with producing a public record of alleged abuses perpetrated by federal agents during “Operation Midway Blitz.” It will also examine the impact of such conduct on Illinois residents and communities and offer recommendations for accountability and reform.
Capitol News Illinois is a nonprofit, nonpartisan news service that distributes state government coverage to hundreds of news outlets statewide. It is funded primarily by the Illinois Press Foundation and the Robert R. McCormick Foundation.
How to find the ideal contractor to build your new home
Breaking ground on a new home represents one of the most significant milestones in life. For residents across Champaign County, from the quiet streets of Mahomet to the bustling neighborhoods of Urbana, the prospect of building a custom house brings immense excitement.
by Casey Cartwright Contributing Writer
The success of your home-building project hinges entirely on the professional you choose to lead it. This guide will show you how to find the ideal contractor to build your new dream home.
Defining Your Needs and Wants
You must understand exactly what you want before you pick up the phone to call a builder. A contractor cannot provide an accurate estimate or timeline if your vision remains a vague concept. You should sit down and document the specifics of your project. Determine the size of the home, the number of bedrooms and bathrooms, and the architectural style that appeals to you.
It helps to separate your list into non-negotiables and optional features. You might absolutely require a three-car garage and a main-floor master suite, while hardwood floors throughout the second level might remain a "nice-to-have" if the budget allows. This distinction helps potential contractors understand where they can value-engineer the project to meet your financial goals. When you approach builders with a clear scope of work, you present yourself as a serious client ready to move forward, which results in quicker, more accurate responses.
Photo: Annie Gray/Unsplash
When choosing a building contractor, focus on a good fit. Look at quality and realistic timelines, not just the lowest price. Quality work and open communication from start to finish are the key to building a beautiful new home.
Researching Potential Contractors
Champaign County offers a close-knit community where reputation matters. You should start your search by tapping into local networks. Ask friends, family, and colleagues who have recently built or renovated homes about their experiences. Personal recommendations can provide the most honest insight into a builder’s reliability and communication style.
You can also expand your search by observing active construction sites in your neighborhood. If you see a job site that looks clean, organized, and active, write down the name on the sign. Local real estate agents and lenders are also excellent resources. These professionals work with builders daily and know which companies consistently deliver quality results on time. They can steer you toward reputable firms and away from those with a history of problems.
Checking Credentials and Licenses
Legitimacy creates the foundation of trust. You simply cannot afford to hire a builder who operates in the shadows. A professional contractor must possess the appropriate business licenses to operate in Illinois and within specific municipalities, such as Champaign or Urbana. These credentials demonstrate that the builder understands local building codes and zoning regulations.
Verifying these credentials requires you to ask for proof of licensure during your initial conversations. You should also inquire about their professional affiliations. Membership in organizations such as the National Association of Home Builders or local home builder associations indicates a commitment to professionalism and continuing education. These builders typically stay up to date on the latest energy-efficiency standards and safety protocols.
Photo: Paul Brennan/Pixabay
When doing the initial leg work looking for a contractor, review photos of their past work and ask to visit sites of current projects in the works.
Reading Online Reviews and Testimonials
To find the ideal contractor to build your new home, you should solicit digital and personal feedback about professionals you’re considering. Read reviews on platforms like Google, Facebook, and the Better Business Bureau. While a single negative review shouldn't necessarily disqualify a candidate, you must look for patterns in the feedback. Major red flags include multiple complaints about hidden costs, poor communication, or abandoned job sites.
Pay close attention to how the contractor responds to criticism online. A professional response to a bad review shows that the business owner cares about customer satisfaction and tries to resolve disputes. You can also ask the contractor for references from past clients. Speaking directly with a former customer lets you ask specific questions about how the builder handles challenges that arise during construction.
Interviewing Multiple Contractors
You should never hire the first person you meet without comparing them to others. Aim to interview at least three potential builders. Treat these meetings like job interviews where you are the employer. You need to gauge not only their technical competence but also their communication style.
Ask pointed questions during these meetings. Inquire about their current workload and how many projects they manage simultaneously. Ask who will be present on the job site daily and who serves as your primary point of contact. You need to know if they use their own employees or rely heavily on subcontractors.
Checking Insurance and Bonding
Construction sites present inherent dangers. Accidents happen, and you must confirm that you don’t carry the financial liability for them. Your contractor must hold comprehensive general liability insurance and workers' compensation insurance. General liability covers damage to your property, while workers' compensation covers injuries to the crew.
Request a certificate of their insurance and verify that the policy remains active. Also, ask about bonding. A surety bond protects you if the contractor fails to complete the job or pay their subcontractors. This financial safety net ensures that there are no liens on your new home due to the builder’s financial mismanagement.
Understanding the Contract
The contract serves as the roadmap for the entire build. You should never start work on a handshake agreement. A professional contract protects both parties by clearly outlining expectations. It must include the start date, the projected completion date, the payment schedule, and a description of the materials.
Pay particular attention to the termination clause and the dispute resolution process. You need to know your options if the relationship sours. The contract should also define the process for change orders. Changes inevitably happen during construction, whether you decide to move a wall or upgrade the cabinetry.
Maintaining Open Communication
The relationship does not end once you sign the contract; it shifts into high gear. Communicating effectively with your home builder is a must for a successful and smooth project. Open lines of communication prevent small misunderstandings from becoming expensive errors. You should establish a regular check-in schedule with your builder, such as weekly on-site meetings or a Friday email update.
You must also play your part as a good client. Make decisions promptly when the builder asks for your input on tile colors or faucet styles. Delays in your decision-making process halt progress on the site. If you have concerns, voice them immediately rather than waiting. Mutual respect and clear dialogue keep the project moving forward.
Building Your Dream Home with Confidence
Building a new home in Champaign County offers the chance to create a space that perfectly suits your lifestyle. While the construction process involves thousands of details and decisions, hiring the right team makes the journey manageable and even enjoyable. By defining your needs, conducting thorough research, and verifying credentials, you stack the odds in your favor.
About the author ~
Casey is a passionate copyeditor highly motivated to provide compelling SEO content in the digital marketing space. Her expertise includes a vast range of industries from highly technical, consumer, and lifestyle-based, with an emphasis on attention to detail and readability.
Casey is a passionate copyeditor highly motivated to provide compelling SEO content in the digital marketing space. Her expertise includes a vast range of industries from highly technical, consumer, and lifestyle-based, with an emphasis on attention to detail and readability.
Federal judge rebukes DOJ over effort to limit future claims against immigration agents
Department of Justice makes the surprise motion to dismiss their case after an appeals court indicated it may not uphold the lower court judge’s order restricting use of force including tear gas and other riot control weapons.
by Hannah MeiselCapitol News Illinois
CHICAGO - An attorney for the Trump administration on Thursday told a federal judge that it is “wrong to allege” the U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s Chicago-area “Operation Midway Blitz” immigration enforcement campaign is over, but declined to give any specifics on when the city may experience another surge of federal agents. The comment came during a hearing Thursday in front of U.S. District Judge Sara Ellis on how best to wind down a lawsuit initiated earlier this fall by protesters, clergy and journalists over federal immigration agents’ use of riot control weapons like tear gas. Earlier this week in a surprise move, plaintiffs’ attorneys asked Ellis to dismiss the case.
The people of Chicago stood up to the Trump administration’s bullying and intimidation, and showed them they were messing with the wrong city.
After a marathon hearing last month that included video footage of U.S. Customs and Border Patrol Commander Gregory Bovino tackling a protester and throwing tear gas canisters into a crowd, Ellis issued a searing ruling granting a preliminary injunction restricting agents’ use of force. But the 7th Circuit Court of Appeals halted Ellis’ order, siding with the Trump administration’s argument that the judge overstepped and “impermissibly” infringed on how the executive branch conducts law enforcement activity. The appeals court’s stay on Ellis’ order came in the days after Bovino and roughly 200 more Border Patrol agents left Chicago for North Carolina. At the same time, the Trump administration sent home approximately 200 members of the Texas National Guard who’d been flown to Illinois in early October to protect immigration agents but were blocked from deploying by another federal judge’s order. Plaintiffs’ attorneys used Border Patrol agents’ departure in framing their motion to dismiss as a legal win, without addressing the specter of the 7th Circuit or U.S. Supreme Court gutting Ellis’ order or giving the Trump administration any permanent expanded powers against civilians. “We won our case the day they left town,” plaintiffs’ attorney David Owens of Loevy & Loevy said in a statement Tuesday. “The people of Chicago stood up to the Trump administration’s bullying and intimidation, and showed them they were messing with the wrong city.” In response, the administration wrote in a Thursday morning filing that the move was “transparent procedural gamesmanship,” a characterization U.S. Department of Justice attorney Elizabeth Hedges repeated later during the hearing in front of Ellis.
A dismissal of this lawsuit can in no way give defendants a free hall pass to beat up press, protesters, priests months (or) years from now and commit other constitutional violations.
Addressing plaintiffs’ contention that Operation Midway Blitz was over, Hedges said the administration was “pushing back on that as a factual matter.” “We’re making the point that they’re wrong to allege it’s over,” she said. “They’re free to look at news reports and make whatever conclusions on what they want to do in this court.” But she demurred when Ellis asked whether immigration agents were “returning to Chicago imminently to continue Operation Midway Blitz.” "We’re not committing one way or the other on the future,” Hedges said. Based on news reports last month that Bovino would return to the Chicago area in the early spring with a much larger contingent of agents, Ellis scheduled a trial in the case for March 2, telling attorneys during a mid-November hearing that, “It would make sense that if it does ramp up again, everyone knows what the rules are.” But that trial, along with arguments set for later this month in front of the 7th Circuit, will now be canceled. Hedges also tried to assert that Ellis’ dismissal of the lawsuit would bar members of the public from bringing legal action against the Trump administration alleging possible future violations of their constitutional rights by immigration agents. But plaintiffs’ attorney Craig Futterman of the University of Chicago Law School’s Mandel Legal Aid Clinic disagreed. "A dismissal of this lawsuit can in no way give defendants a free hall pass to beat up press, protesters, priests months (or) years from now and commit other constitutional violations,” he said. “That’s not how the law works.” Ellis also told Hedges, “that’s now how the law works.” “And while it was the government’s position that no agent did anything illegal or unconstitutional, having watched the videos, having read the reports, having listened to the witnesses, I strongly disagree,” the judge said.
Capitol News Illinois is a nonprofit, nonpartisan news service that distributes state government coverage to hundreds of news outlets statewide. It is funded primarily by the Illinois Press Foundation and the Robert R. McCormick Foundation.
Free weekly Tai Chi course targeting arthritis and mobility for seniors starts in January
A free Tai Chi for Arthritis series begins Jan. 14 in Savoy, offering residents a proven way to improve balance, reduce pain and boost mobility.
SAVOY - There’s a moment in life when many of us realize our bodies aren’t bouncing back the way they used to. Maybe it’s a stumble on the front step, a stiff knee that wasn’t there last year or the kind of stress that lingers long after the day is done. For a growing number of adults, the answer to those creeping reminders of age isn’t found in a gym or a pill bottle - it’s in the slow, deliberate movements of tai chi. You may want to carve out time this winter for a special tai chi series built specifically for arthritis relief and fall prevention.
Vlada Karpovich/PEXELS
One of the most profound benefit to practicing Tai Chi is perhaps the simplest: preventing falls. There are a number of other positive benefits like enhanced strength and mobility, a boost in cardiovascular health, and reduction in stress and anxiety that make learning simple Tai Chi movements more than worthwhile.
The University of Illinois Extension office is inviting members of the community to “experience a gentle, yet powerful way to improve your strength, flexibility, and balance while reducing pain and fall risk.” The upcoming program is based on Tai Chi for Arthritis, developed by Dr. Paul Lam and recognized by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention as an evidence-based and effective approach. Family Life Educator Emily Harmon and Nutrition and Wellness Educator Rachel Mannen will lead the weekly sessions, which are tailored to help participants “boost mobility, ease discomfort, and support lifelong wellness.” No matter one’s experience level, it’s never to late to start practicing Tai Chi. Classes will meet Wednesdays from 12:30-1:30 p.m. in the Windsor Court room at the Windsor of Savoy, 401 Burwash Ave., beginning Jan. 14 and running through April 29, 2026. Dates include Jan. 14, 21 and 28; Feb. 4, 11, 18 and 25; March 4, 11, 18 and 25; and April 1, 8, 15, 22 and 29. Space is limited, and because each session builds on the previous one, organizers encourage participants to attend consistently to get the full benefits of the series. Although the program is free, registration is required. Community members can sign up at go.illinois.edu/taichisavoy or call 217-333-9260.
Storage hacks you definitely want use between fall-winter, winter-spring seasons
The changes in season should be exciting. Keep your transitions from fall to winter or winter to spring organized and easy.
SNS - Seasonal change brings fresh routines. It also brings clutter. So many families need smarter spaces and affordable storage ideas that fit daily life. That is why storage hacks locals swear by matter in every city. A tidy home feels easier to manage. Protected items stay ready for future use. Clean systems support daily living and make moving simpler.
Storage Hacks Locals Swear By: Easy and Practical Tips for Every Home
A good organization solves daily stress. Clear containers make everything visible. Simple labels prevent confusion. Strong storage shelves give items a home. These hacks support moving plans, garage spaces, closets, and rental storage units.
Photo: Arina Krasnikova/PEXELS
Sort First, Then Store: Reduce What You Carry Each Season
People collect more than they use. Each season gives us a chance to review items and make your home clutter-free with simple habits. Sort clothes by fit and comfort. Donate what does not serve you. Pack off-season items right after sorting. Follow storage hacks locals swear by to keep piles from growing. A small session each month helps avoid overload. Use short lists:- Keep items you love and use.
- Donate clean items that no longer fit.
- Recycle broken pieces.
Protect Seasonal Clothing With Breathable Bags
Clothes need safe storage from moisture. Cotton storage bags allow air to move. This prevents stale odor. Vacuum-seal bags save major space for winter coats. Shoe boxes keep their shape. Add lavender pouches for a fresh scent. Store clothing by season at the top of closets or in under-bed bins.Plan Space for Kids As They Grow
Photo: Cottonbro Studio/PEXELS
Weather-Safe Storage for Outdoor Gear
Summer gear needs winter rest. Winter gear needs summer rest. Use sturdy bins for camping tools. Hang bikes safely on walls. Keep beach gear in mesh bags so sand drops away. Simple storage habits keep gear ready for the next season.Use Vertical Space to Open Your Floors
Empty floor space creates calm. Wall shelves help organize books, board games, and seasonal décor. Pegboards hold tools and crafts. A tall shoe rack near the door keeps heavy boots upright in winter. Vertical space helps small apartments feel roomy.Digital Lists Help Track Stored Items
A simple photo album on your phone works better than memory. Take one photo per box. Add a note with the contents. Include the location of each box. Digital tracking supports quick finding and faster unpacking during moves.
Photo: RDNE Stock Project/PEXELS
Label Boxes With Clear, Short Words
Labels clear confusion. Use bold markers. Write one or two words per side:- “Fall Jackets”
- “Holiday Lights”
- “Football Gear”
Create A “Next Season” Bin
Prepare one bin for items you will use soon. Keep it close. In early fall, place winter hats and gloves here. In spring, swap swim gear into that bin. One easy bin saves digging through stacks.A Moving Insight: Local Storage Can Support Family Life During Seasonal Change
Families often move to reach better schools or kid-friendly areas with parks. During moves, items shift between homes and storage units. This period shows how our needs change with the seasons as we look for seasonal storage solutions that support daily routines. Parents want toys and school items close by. They keep holiday decorations out of the way. They plan access to seasonal sports gear for active kids. Smart storage connects home comfort and moving organization. Many movers share helpful guides, including storage hacks locals swear by, to help families adjust to space step by step.Food and Pantry Rotation
Pantry space shifts with seasons, too. Winter soups need space. Summer snacks need airflow. Rotate cans based on expiration. Glass jars protect dry goods. Strong clips close snack bags. Keep a small box of emergency food in a high space so kids stay safe.Clean Before Storing Seasonal Items
Dust and dirt spread in closed spaces. Quick cleaning keeps items fresh for next year. Wash beach towels before storing. Dry tents before folding. Wipe down skates after the season ends. This protects gear and keeps pests away.Climate Control for Delicate Items
Heat breaks glue. Cold cracks plastics. Photos warp. Artwork fades. Delicate belongings need stable temperatures. If you use a rental storage space, ask for climate-controlled options. Movers can also advise on packing for fragile items.Clear Walkways in Storage Units
Clear paths help fast access. Place long-term items against the back walls. Keep often-used bins in the front. Heavy boxes should stay low. Safety matters every time you visit the unit.Keep Seasonal Décor Together
Holiday decorations scatter across homes. Pack décor from each holiday into its own set of bins. Color-code lids for quick recognition:- Red for winter holidays
- Orange for fall and Halloween
- Green for spring events
Smart Furniture Storage
Some furniture hides space inside. For example, storage ottomans hold blankets. Plus, benches with cubbies hide shoes. In addition, under-bed drawers work well for winter sweaters. Overall, choose furniture that helps place items away with ease.Check Items Twice Per Year
Use spring and fall to check everything in storage. During these reviews, look for moisture or pests. Also, check expiration dates in the pantry box. At the same time, review kids’ items as they grow. With this habit, twice-yearly checks stop waste and keep gear ready.Seasonal Storage and Moving Go Hand in Hand
Moving often happens during the season change. New homes demand fresh space planning, and organizing your storage helps families settle faster. Families arrive with summer gear but prepare for winter. Local movers help protect items through these changes. They share tips to store smarter so homes feel spacious from day one. This is why storage hacks locals swear by continue to help so many households each year.Seasonal Change Can Feel Easier With Smart Storage
Season change should feel exciting. Yet, clutter can spoil that feeling. So, smart planning helps remove stress fast. First, use clear systems. Next, choose strong bins that last. Then, track items with simple lists. Also, make access easy for the whole family. That way, daily life flows better with the changing weather. Whether settling into a new space or preparing for a move, trust simple storage hacks locals swear by to support comfort all year.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.
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
Guest Commentary | This Christmas reach out and love others
Since we aren’t sure how many more Christmases we will enjoy, let’s make this a good one. This Christmas, don’t be sad, mad or bad but be joyful and celebrate this good day.
by Glenn Mollette, Guest Commentator
Glenn Mollette
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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