Cool winter days may have you tempted to burrow under a blanket and wait out the weather, but there are plenty of entertaining and affordable ways to enjoy quality family time together despite chilly temperatures. Not only does cooking together give you something fun to do as a family, but it also helps kids develop important life skills and healthy habits, exposes them to new food options and allows them to practice reading and math when they follow recipes like this Fruity Smiley Face Waffle or Cocoa Smiley Face Waffle.

Creating reliable and efficient heat for your home during the winter months may be easier than you think. Using propane appliances like furnaces, water heaters, fireplaces and kitchen appliances alongside other energy sources, like electricity, can help reduce the strain on the electrical grid. Consider these energy-efficient, propane-powered appliances and their benefits compared to other energy sources.

A very Merry Christmas to my readers of this column. I thank you for your support of donations of Albion memorabilia which helps me discover new topics to write about. Be sure and tell your friends about this column.

For the record, the hand that was pictured holding that Albion Chamber of Commerce slogan in last week’s article was that of Orlando Harry Gale (1870-1960), owner-operator of the Gale Hardware here.

Making time for meals together can have a positive impact on the well-being of families, including children and adolescents. A simple-to-prepare ingredient like eggs can help you spend less time cooking and more time with family. For example, these heart-healthy recipes for Poached Egg Tostadas with Avocado-Tomatillo Salsa, Sweet Potato Hash with Eggs and Poblano Frittata are ready in 15 minutes or less.

Entertaining friends and loved ones during the holidays offers an opportunity to slow down from the hustle and bustle of the holiday season and make lasting memories. The key is getting ahead of hosting duties so you can be present with family and friends. Make this season’s holiday hosting effortless and enjoyable with these tips and this delicious holiday-themed recipe for Iced Gingerbread Caramel Coffee that is sure to become a favorite.

Retired nurse and caregiver for so many, Cathy’s love of life didn’t come to an end with her death. Catheryne (Kuczwara) Berg, 71, went to her heavenly home on Sunday, November 26, 2023 surrounded by faith and the love of her husband.

It was 100 years ago this month that the fledgling new Albion Chamber of Commerce embarked on a community-wide organizational membership campaign. Discussions about organizing a Chamber of Commerce occurred in November, 1923, and an executive committee was formed on November 19 to recruit members.

Without a little prep work and routine maintenance, winter weather can wreak havoc on your home. Following a few simple steps can help you avoid frozen pipes, drafty rooms and slippery sidewalks.

Winter is one of the busiest times of year to travel. Whether you travel by train, plane or take a long road trip, it can be overwhelming – especially when you have young children. However, there is no need to worry, as preparing and anticipating possible obstacles along the way can help ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.

Cozying up with a bowl of warm deliciousness is a perfect way to ward off the chill of winter, and it’s made even better when shared with those you love. Turning to favorites like Smoky German Potato, Sausage and Bacon Chili or Tuscan 3 Bean Peasant Soup can transport your family from snow and sleet to warmth and paradise.

We continue with our theme of “Albion, 100 Years Ago.” December 1, 1923: “Eckford, November 28. On Monday of this week while George Earl of West Eckford was feeding a corn husking machine, he reached in too far and his left hand was caught in the snapping rolls. Before the machine could be stopped the hand and wrist were crushed. He was rushed to Marshall where the arm was amputated.