Lifestyle Columns
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Uncovering the secrets of Geneva’s Fabyan Estate … and its leaky pondApr 11, 2025 5:00 am - The Fabyan Estate in Geneva faces environmental and preservation challenges, including a leaky pond in the Japanese Garden and deteriorating artifacts in the Fabyan Villa Museum.
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An Easter feast: Elegant rib roast, colorful spring salad, easy cherry pie bars call us back to the tableApr 09, 2025 6:01 am - It’s not too early to plan your Easter dinner. Here’s a menu that feels just right for the occasion: a show-stopping standing rib roast, a colorful spring salad with strawberries and sugar snap peas, and a sweet ending that’s as nostalgic as it is easy — cherry pie bars.
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With care, cast-iron can serve for a centuryApr 09, 2025 4:56 am - A properly seasoned cast iron skillet can function as well as any Teflon-coated one and last for generations, as long as you follow some basic steps in its care and use.
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Grated orange zest, fresh ginger add zing to sunny carrot soupApr 02, 2025 6:00 am - This Carrot, Orange and Ginger Soup is healthy, easy to make, and you can’t be in a bad mood when you are eating it. Because it’s so light, it’s a perfect soup for lunch and would also be a nice addition to an Easter brunch menu.
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Time in a bottle: The case for a mature, fine wineApr 02, 2025 5:26 am - About 5% of wine needs more time to develop than the length of your car ride home from the wine shop. These wines are hard to find, pricey and finicky, requiring TLC after purchase, including pristine storage and possibly decanting. So why bother?
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Illinois legislators consider bills expanding bicyclists' rights, liability protectionsMar 30, 2025 7:05 pm - Many Illinois lawmakers are sponsoring bills related to bicycling, including defining tricycles as bikes, allowing bikes to treat stop signs as yield signs, and deeming bikes intended roadway users.
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Trump administration blocks more than $400M in funding for Illinois health programsMar 28, 2025 3:52 pm - President Donald Trump’s administration is pulling back $477 million from Illinois that was to be used to prevent infectious disease and treat mental health and substance abuse issues.
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Campton Township seeks voter approval for open space bond issueMar 28, 2025 5:30 am - Those pitching to improve open space and obtain even more often have a good chance with the voting public on Election Day.
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Sweet mornings: Don’t settle for boring with these banana bread pancakes, breakfast cookiesMar 26, 2025 5:43 am - Mornings can be hectic, but that doesn’t mean you have to settle for a boring breakfast. Whether you’re looking for a grab-and-go option or a cozy weekend treat, these simple yet satisfying recipes are perfect for making your mornings special.
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Colorful cold chickpea salad a great way to get legumes on your plateMar 26, 2025 5:38 am - Chickpeas are good for so much more than hummus. Toss canned organic chickpeas with shallots, sweet red peppers, English cucumbers, carrots, fresh parsley and a sherry vinegar dressing to brighten up any plate.