Located in Lincoln Square Mall, Miranda's Loom features the work of around 15 local fine art artists. From intricate fiber arts to eye-catching pottery, there dozens of gift ideas you won't find anywhere else in Champaign-Urbana. Whether it is metal work, finely crafted turned wood or understated ikebana vases, there are dozens of art pieces waiting to become a sentimental addition to any home's decor.
Owner Leann Gehm is an award-winning artist who holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Studio Art and a Master of Science degree in Art Therapy. Preferring plant-based natural fibers for her work, Gehm crafts colorful pieces with delicate precision.
Miranda's Loom, located near the mall center across from the food court, is open Tuesday through Friday from 10am to 6pm and on Saturday's from 10am - 2pm.
Below are six of more than of dozen one of a kind gift ideas from Miranda's Loom to put a smile on the face of that special someone this holiday season. See something you like? You will want to visit Gehm's store as soon as you can to see if the pieces featured below are still available.
Handwoven cowls
Above:Created on the premises, choose from more than a dozen handwoven cowls by artist and owner Leann Gehm. This piece is perfect when you want a lighter accessory for a splash of color or to keep you a bit warmer on a chilly day in the office or when out on the town. Gehm's cowls are eco-friendly made from eucalyptus fiber and embellished with glass beads. They are lightweight, silky with a wonderful drape. $68.
Bracelets
Below:While bracelets are commonly used as an accessory item to finish off a look, for many people they are more than just a stylish accessory. In some cultures bracelets carry a meaning deeper than the threads that compose them and are intimate gifts for both men and women. Made by Sarah Bernzott her free-spirited style will make a splash this holiday season. Prices from $12 - $50.
Gift Cards
Miranda's Loom Gift Cards are the perfect gift for the person who is difficult to buy for; let them choose from hundreds of art pieces in the store. There are handcrafted greeting cards, handmade basketry, gorgeous scarves for every occasion and more.
Available starting at $25 & up.
Pottery
Created by Paul Borian from Blanket Creek Pottery, his stoneware features high-luster glazes and an elegant form. Buy a single piece or choose from several available sets in the store today. Prices range $26 - $56 per piece.
Necklaces
Featuring mixed metals and semi-precious gemstones, Sarah Bernzott necklaces are stylish and unique for a refined finish to any outfit. Prices range $12 - $50.
SJO coach Dan Vogelsang claps for his team after the home game against Rantoul in 2018. The four-year head coach resigned this week. (PhotoNews Media File Photo)
Earlier this week, head coach Daniel Voglesang tendered his resignation after four seasons at the helm of St. Joseph-Ogden High School soccer program.
"His resignation will be brought before the Board of Education on December 18," said Athletic Director Justin Franzen, who confirmed the report by email. "While a timeline has yet to be determined, the administration is currently evaluating the situation and will put a plan in place that will best suit the needs of our soccer program."
Under Voglesang's direction, the Spartans, who won their regional semifinal against Arthur-Lovington/Atwood-Hammond, 2-1, finished this past season with a record of 7 wins, 14 losses and 4 ties. His four-year record was 37-44-12.
The Spartans also posted wins over Schlarman, Oakwood, Georgetown-Ridge Farm-Westville and Watseka. The four-senior team tallied two conference wins, beating Unity 1-0 at home and posting a 2-1 road victory at Olympia.
Editor's Note: When The Sentinel first published this story, we inadvertently listed SJO's four-year record, using various sources available online, as 22-44-12. The story has been updated with the correct total of 37-44-12. We apologize for the error.
The 8-1 St. Joseph-Ogden girls basketball team earned a #4 seed out 16 small school programs set to square off at this year's State Farm Holiday Classic.
The Spartans open their bid for another tournament title this season at Normal Community High School, one of four tournament sites in Bloomington-Normal, against #13 Bishop McNamara at 8pm on December 26. Depend on how they fair against Fightin' Irish, they will face either Normal University High or Rockford Lutheran in either the championship or consolation semifinals on Friday.
Other teams in the upper portion of the bracket with SJO is Rock Falls, El Paso-Gridley, Oakwood and Annawan.
The boys squad, led by Chance Izard and frosh Ty Pence, were awarded the #6 seed.
They will tipoff at 5pm across town at Normal West at 5p against the Annawan Braves leaving plenty of time for Spartan fans to make both games the day after Christmas.
The Spartans, who opened their season on a 5-0 win streak and won the Toyota of Danville Classic title this past week, will be put to the test at the Classic.
The other six teams in the bottom half of the bracket with them include Rockford Lutheran, Tri-Valley, Rock Falls, Fieldcrest, Bishop McNamara and fellow conference team the #2 seeded Bloomington Central Catholic Saints. The complete boys bracket is here.
Single session passes are $8.00 for adults and $6.00 for students (K-12), senior citizens, active military and veterans. Admission for children under 5 years of age is free. All-Day and All-Tournament passes are also available. Find more ticket information here.
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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.
