Community & Lifestyle

Have a pine tree in the backyard? Use cuttings from an evergreen to make wreaths and swags. Stick holly cuttings into a foam ball. Add a length of ribbon and loop the flower arrangement over a door handle. Host an ornament-making party. Stock up on ornaments from a craft store and pull out glue, fabric […]

Springfield YMCA701 South 4th St., 544-9846 The Springfield YMCA was established in 1874 and has continuously served the Springfield area for 135 years. It began as an organization serving boys and young men, but over the years has broadened its services and target population to meet the changing needs of the community. The Springfield YMCA […]

Tired of the same old bird for the holidays? Give your turkey an extreme makeover by taking the cooking – and the party – outside. “A turkey smoke-roasted on the grill tastes better, thanks to the smoke flavor,” says Steve Raichlen, author of The Barbecue Bible and How to Grill and host of the PBS […]

Sparc232 Bruns Ln., 792-2100 Sparc’s many programs for developmentally disabled adults do just what their mission entails: improve the quality of their lives. These programs include residential support, supported living, developmental training, respite, supported employment, family support and the Epilepsy Support Center. Wish List: Educational games for adults with developmental disabilities Please check out the […]

Even the most-“seasoned” TV watchers can’t catch it all, making gift-giving all the easier for you. This year, get them hooked on something new with an award-winning first season of one of TV’s top shows. You get credit for finding their new favorite – and they’re in charge of catching up. Six Feet Under: The […]

With this year’s tighter budgets, many holiday cooks will be limiting their entertaining splurges. Fancy menus and imported ingredients are facing the ax, as shopping lists face greater scrutiny. Instead, many are taking a new look at old favorites, which can help cut holiday-meal costs without having to cut guest lists. While in recent years, […]

Lend a hand to these central Illinois organizations this holiday season. Check Illinois Times next week for more local wish lists. Send lists to holidaywishlist@illinoistimes.com Mini O’Beirne Crisis Nursery1011 N. 7th St., 525-6800 Started in 1989 with a mission to prevent child abuse and neglect, the Mini O’Beirne Crisis Nursery provides free emergency, temporary care, […]

For the person on your list who thinks there hasn’t been music worth listening to since Reagan was president. Let them know good news awaits beneath the tree. Old is new again this holiday season – and thanks to some digital trickery it sounds better than ever. Check out the latest reissues that are sure […]