CDN 2023 Holiday Gift Guide

GiftGUIDE CDN Holiday Gift Guide P.O. Box 3136 Alton, IL 62002

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About This Magazine 2023 has been a record-breaking year for the Collinsville Daily News. In our first two years in business, this community news source has been read by over 250,000 people across more than 150 countries. While our top read cities have been Chicago and St. Louis, Collinsville, IL remains the focus of our news content. I launched this company with one focus….to give a voice to the voiceless and share the stories that need to be told.

We opened on Valentine’s Day as the heartbeat of the community.

Because of your support and engagement, we will continue to grow and build more local community online news sources that highlight what is happening at a local level. In the next year, you can expect to see the same daily updates with local, regional and world news in English and Spanish. There will also be new products that are introduced throughout the year. This magazine is one example of the new features that will be introduced. The large support and positive feedback we have received have encouraged the anticipated growth into more print products.

We invite you to take a moment and read over the next few pages.

Enjoy the content focused on holiday trends and fun games to play. There is a coloring contest for the kids to engage in. Submit your entry for a chance to win a $25 Visa Gift Card. Winners will be announced on December 23, 2023.

Thank you for your continued support!

See why Collinsville Daily News is the Heartbeat of the Community!

Jacqueline Duty, Owner – Collinsville Daily News

Publisher: Jacqueline Duty

jackie@collinsvilledailynews.com

©2023Collinsville Daily News Gift Guide. All rights reserved.

Spreading Cheer: How CUSD 10 Gives Back During the Christmas Holidays The Christmas holiday season is a time of joy and giving, and the Collinsville Unit School District 10 is not just about academics but also about fostering a spirit of generosity and community. As the holiday season approaches, the district gears up for its annual tradition of giving back to the community in heartwarming ways, spreading joy and cheer to those in need.

Throughout the year, teachers, students, and staff members across various schools within the district engage in fundraising activities, volunteer work, and donation drives to support families and individuals who may be facing hardships during the holiday season.

A few of the programs include adopting families for Christmas gifts with Lizeth Jimenez, KAHOKstrong, CHS Key Club, CHS Student Council, and Collinsville Charities for Children.

In a world where the true spirit of the holidays can sometimes get lost in the bustle, CUSD10 shines as a beacon of hope and kindness, embodying the true essence of the Christmas season.

This season, as the district once again rallies to make a difference, it not only spreads cheer but also sows the seeds of kindness and goodwill that will continue to grow and flourish in the hearts of all involved, creating a legacy of compassion for years to come.

There are too many initiatives to list in this small space. Make sure you read the CUSD channel on Collinsville Daily News to see more articles highlighting each initiative and effort by all teachers, staff and students across the district.

Popular Toys in 2023 Flying Orb Ball, 2023 Upgraded Flying Ball Toy, Hand Controlled Boomerang Hover Ball, Flying Spinner with Endless Tricks, Cool Toys Gifts for 6 7 8 9 10+ Year Old Boys Girls Teens Indoor Outdoor Toys

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Top 10 Christmas Movies???

Elf (2003)

10

Did your favorite movie make our Top 10?

Die Hard (1988)

9 A Christmas Carol (2009)

8 Polar Express (2004)

6

Home Alone (1990)

7 White Christmas (1954)

5

National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation (1989)

4 Charlie Brown Christmas (1965)

2

A Christmas Story (1983)

3 It’s A Wonderful Life (1946)

1

What Holiday Movie Describes You? What's your ideal holiday setting?

1. Snow-covered town or city 2. Warm and cozy home with loved ones 3. Big city with bustling activities 4. Adventure-filled location

How do you handle unexpected situations?

1. Stay calm and find a creative solution 2. Rely on friends or family for support 3. Try to make the best of it with humor 4. Take charge and tackle the problem head-on

What's your approach to celebrating the holidays?

1. Spread cheer and positivity to everyone 2. Focus on spending quality time with loved ones 3. Enjoy the festivities and have a good time 4. Create memorable and exciting experiences

What's your favorite holiday activity?

1. Helping others and making their days brighter 2. Sharing meals and enjoying traditions 3. Laughing and having fun with friends 4. Seeking out new adventures and challenges

How do you feel about family gatherings?

1. Love spending time with family and friends 2. Enjoy the warmth and comfort of family 3. Sometimes chaotic but filled with love 4. Appreciate the bonding but prefer some space

Which quality resonates with you the most?

1. Kindness 2. Love 3. Humor 4. Resilience Tally up the numbers of your chosen answers: •Mostly 1s: You're most like "It's a Wonderful Life."

•Mostly 2s: You align with "Elf." •Mostly 3s: Your match is "Christmas Vacation."

•Mostly 4s: Your movie spirit is akin to "Die Hard.”

Which movie did you get?

Ricciarelli: A Chewy Italian Almond Cookie Italian Ricciarelli Cookies are soft and chewy and are made with almond flour with a hint of orange or lemon flavor. They make a wonderful glutenfree option for a Christmas cookie plate or can be enjoyed any time of the year with your favorite coffee.

INSTRUCTIONS 1) Whip egg whites and lemon juice together with a stand mixer or hand mixer until stiff peaks form.

2) Using a fine mesh sieve, sift in almond flour, 1 3/4 cups powdered sugar, salt, and baking powder and fold into egg whites. I don’t do it all at once but maybe in 2-3 batches. Try to keep some air in the egg whites, but at this point it will form a pretty sticky dough rather than a fluffy meringue.

3) Add orange zest, vanilla extract, and almond extract and fold in until combined.

4) Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Using clean hands, roll dough into balls about 1″ in diameter, then roll in powdered sugar until well coated. Shape into an oval, then arrange on baking sheet with some space between them for spreading and flatten slightly.

5) Leave at room temperature for about an hour or until the tops have dried out and formed almost a little shell. (This may take longer in humid areas.) Precrack the shell by squeezing the cookies slightly from opposite corners. (Not doing this won’t affect the taste, but pre-cracking them makes them much prettier if you want that beautiful white-gold contrast!)

6) While cookies are drying, preheat oven to 300 degrees. When the cookies are ready, bake for about 20 minutes. Cool and store in an airtight container. These are even better the next day and are great with coffee or tea!

Source: https://www.pinchmeimeating.com/ricciarelli/

Ingredients Refrigerated • 2 Egg whites Condiments • 1 dash Lemon juice

prep time:30 MINS cook time:20 MINS drying time:1HOUR total time:50 MINS

Baking & Spices • 1 tbsp Almond extract • 2 1/4 cups Almond flour • 1/4 tsp Baking powder • 2 1/4 cups Powdered sugar • 1 pinch Salt • 1 tsp Vanilla extract Other • 1 tsp Orange zest (about half a large orange)

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Enter To Win a $25 Visa Gift Card Mail this coloring page to: Collinsville Daily News PO Box 3136, Alton, IL 62002

The Art of Shopping for the Impossible Gift Recipient Choosing the perfect gift can feel like a high-stakes puzzle, especially when the recipient seems to have everything or has very particular tastes.

Whether it's a friend, a family member, or a colleague, the challenge of finding something unique and meaningful can be both exciting and daunting. However, fear not! With a thoughtful approach and a dash of creativity, you can navigate this gift-giving conundrum with finesse.

Understand Their Interests and Passions Start by delving into the recipient's interests and passions. Consider their hobbies, favorite pastimes, or any recent conversations that hinted at something they're excited about. Understanding their interests will guide you towards gift ideas that align with their passions.

Personalize Whenever Possible Personalization adds a heartfelt touch to any gift. gifts often hold sentimental value and show that you've put in extra thought.

Quality Over Quantity Instead of opting for numerous small items, focus on finding one high-quality, meaningful gift. It could be an item of excellent craftsmanship or something that resonates deeply with their interests.

Explore Unique and Uncommon Gifts Unconventional gifts can make a lasting impact.

Look for unique items that cater to their specific interests. This might involve searching through specialty stores, artisanal markets, or online platforms that curate one-of-a-kind products.

Remember, the essence of gift-giving lies in the thought behind it. Even if the recipient is hard to buy for, the effort and consideration you put into selecting the gift will be cherished.

Embrace the challenge with enthusiasm, and you might just surprise yourself with the perfect gift idea!

Sustainable Gift Wrapping for Christmas The Christmas season can deliver stress with the process of attempting to wrap mountains of presents. Sustainable wrapping ideas can be a meaningful way to show creativity while respecting the environment These are a few ecofriendly options.

1. Fabric Wraps: •Scarves or Cloth Napkins: Use these to wrap gifts, and they become part of the present.

•Upcycled Fabric: Old clothes, scarves, or even tea towels can be repurposed as gift wraps.

2. Reusable Containers: •Mason Jars or Glass Containers: Great for smaller items like homemade cookies, candies, or bath salts.

•Tins or Baskets: Use these to package gifts and they can be reused for storage or decoration.

3. Natural Elements: •Brown Paper and Twine: Simple and recyclable. Add natural decorations like pinecones, dried flowers, or cinnamon sticks.

•Newspapers or Magazines: Use old pages to wrap gifts; it's a unique and eco-friendly option. sustainable wrapping!

4. Seed Paper: •Use wrapping paper that is embedded with seeds. Once unwrapped, it can be planted to grow flowers or herbs.

5. Reusable Bags: •Cloth Bags: Sew your own or repurpose old ones. They can be part of the gift or reused by the recipient.

•Tote Bags: Functional and reusable for shopping or carrying things.

6. Decorative Touches: •Fabric Ribbons or Twine: Replace plastic ribbons with natural alternatives.

•Homemade Gift Tags: Use recycled cardboard or paper for personalized tags.

7. Reuse and Upcycle: •Previous Gift Wraps: If you receive gifts wrapped in paper, save and reuse them.

•Upcycled Materials: Use maps, posters, or calendars as alternative wrapping paper.

View This QR Code For a Video Sample Wrapping with No Tape

Finding the Ideal Christmas Tree Topper As the holiday season draws near, the centerpiece of many homes will soon be adorned with twinkling lights and cherished ornaments. Yet, amidst the array of decorations, the crowning glory of the Christmas tree often lies in its topper. Selecting the perfect topper can elevate your tree to new heights of elegance and charm. Whether your style is traditional, modern, or whimsical, finding the ideal Christmas tree topper can be a delightful endeavor. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you discover the perfect one for your holiday masterpiece.

4. Embrace Uniqueness: Consider unique alternatives beyond the standard choices.

Think outside the box with unconventional toppers like a sparkling snowflake, a cluster of decorative berries, a festive bow, or even a charming Santa hat.

1. Consider Your Theme: Begin by contemplating the overall theme of your decorations. Are you aiming for a classic, timeless look, or do you prefer a more contemporary and playful vibe?

Your topper should harmonize with the overall aesthetic you wish to achieve.

6. DIY Delights: Get creative and craft your own tree topper!

Engage in a fun DIY project by making a personalized topper that resonates with your style and preferences. Homemade toppers can add a heartfelt touch to your holiday decor.

2. Size Matters: Assess the height and size of your tree. A large tree might accommodate a grand, statement-making topper like an angel, starburst, or oversized bow. Conversely, smaller trees might benefit from more delicate options such as a mini angel or a dainty star.

3. Traditional Elegance with Stars and Angels: A traditional choice for many is the classic star or angel. Stars come in various designs, from glittering gold to rustic wooden styles, and can be an ideal choice for a timeless look. Angels, on the other hand, add a touch of ethereal beauty and serenity.

5. Reflect Your Personality: Let your tree topper reflect your personality and interests. If you're a fan of nature, a rustic topper adorned with pinecones and berries might be perfect.

Movie buffs might opt for a topper inspired by their favorite film or character.

7. Light it Up: Opt for a topper that incorporates lights. Whether it's a star with built-in LED lights or a small projector that casts shimmering patterns on the ceiling, illuminated toppers can add a magical glow to your tree.

8. Unity in Design: Ensure your tree topper complements the rest of your decorations.

Harmonize its colors, textures, and style with the ornaments and garlands adorning your tree for a cohesive and unified look.

9. Test the Stability: Before making your final decision, ensure that the topper is sturdy and properly balanced atop your tree.

You wouldn’t want your beautiful topper tumbling down midcelebration!

10. Trust Your Instincts: Ultimately, choose a topper that brings joy to your heart. Trust your instincts and select the one that resonates with you and encapsulates the spirit of the season for your household.

The quest for the perfect Christmas tree topper is an integral part of the holiday preparations, a joyful pursuit that adds character and charm to your festive decor. Embrace the magic of the season and let your tree shine brightly with a topper that crowns it with elegance, whimsy, and the spirit of celebration.

Giving Back to the Region Through Rotary nature brings together professionals, business leaders and individuals from varied backgrounds under a common ethos of service. This unity of purpose not only strengthens social ties but also generates innovative solutions to multifaceted challenges.

Rotary Clubs stand as pillars of community strength weaving a tapestry of service, goodwill, and empowerment in societies across the globe. Founded on principles of service above self, these clubs play a pivotal role in fostering impactful change at local and international levels. Their significance within a community transcends mere philanthropy; they serve as catalysts for sustainable development, social cohesion, and ethical leadership.

One of the most compelling facets of Rotary Clubs is their unwavering commitment to service projects. Whether it’s funding educational initiatives, supporting healthcare facilities, or spearheading environmental campaigns, Rotary Clubs are at the forefront of addressing pressing community needs.

Through fundraising efforts and hand-on involvement, they channel resources and expertise to uplift the underprivileged, amplifying the collective impact of dedicated volunteers.

The Rotary Club acts as nexus for fostering networking and camaraderie among diverse community members. Its inclusive

Rotary’s global reach amplifies its local impact. Through international partnerships and initiatives, these clubs engage in projects that transcend geographical boundaries.

Collaborating with other Rotary clubs worldwide, they tackle global issues like eradicating diseases, promoting peace, and providing disaster relief, showcasing the immense power of collective action.

Through Rotary’s PolioPlus program the global effort to eradicate polio has reduced the number of polio-endemic countries to three (as of 2012) and cleared 99 percent of the virus from the world. Rotary has led the way with an investment of over $650 million toward making our world certified polio free.

At the local level, the CMC Rotary Club has donated funds and / or volunteered to support CMT YMCA, Collinsville Food Pantry and Soup Kitchen, Boy Scouts, Girl Scouts, local school clubs and groups, local Public Libraries, Anderson Hospital, Parks and Recreation, and other community groups and organizations.

The impact of the CMC Rotary Club extends beyond tangible projects; it fosters a culture of compassion and empathy within communities. By encouraging volunteerism and altruism, these clubs inspire individuals to actively contribute to the betterment of society, creating a ripple effect of goodwill that reverberates far and wide.

In essence, the Rotary Club stands as a beacon of hope, embodying the spirit of service and solidarity. Its profound impact on communities stems from a collective dedication to making the world a better place, one project, one initiative, and one act of kindness at a time. As we witness the transformative influence of Rotary Clubs, it becomes evident that their significance transcends mere charity – it’s about nurturing the very fabric of a vibrant, thriving community.

To learn more about all great things the Rotary club is doing across the area, visit: https://www.rotarycmc.org

St. Louis Holiday Light Must-See Displays 1)

WonderLight's Christmas Dates: November 17–December 31 Times: 5–10 p.m.

Cost: Starts at $30 per car Drive through World Wide Technology Raceway and an expansive light display. Tune your radio to 89.5 FM, and watch the show sync up with favorite Christmas songs.

World Wide Technology Raceway, 1905 Collinsville, Madison, Illinois.

3)

U.S. Bank Wild Lights at the Saint Louis Zoo Dates: Select nights November 24– December 30 Times: 5–8:30 p.m.

Cost: $12–$18 Experience the zoo in a different light— decked in millions of lights and featuring animal-themed displays and see a seasonally themed movie at the 4-D theater.

1 Government.

2)

Missouri Botanical Garden's Garden Glow Dates: November 18–January 6; closed December 24 & 25 Times: 5–9 p.m.

Cost: Pricing varies Go on Family Night, Wednesdays from Nov. 22– Dec. 13, for discounted children’s admission.

4344 Shaw.

4)

Tilles Park's Winter Wonderland Dates: November 22–December 30 Times: 5–9 p.m.

Cost: Starting at $20 More than a million lights and 100-plus displays of winter scenes fill the county park’s more than 75 acres. Tickets can be purchased online in advance and redeemed any open night or pay cash at the park.

9551 Litzsinger.

Keep Your Pets Safe This Christmas The holiday season brings joy, festivities, and a plethora of activities. However, amidst the celebrations, it's crucial to ensure the safety and well-being of our beloved pets. The hustle and bustle, decorations, rich foods, and potential hazards can pose risks to our furry friends. Here are a few essential tips to keep your pets safe and content during this merry time.

1. Mindful Decorations: •Secure decorations: Hang ornaments out of reach and secure Christmas trees to prevent tipping.

•Pet-friendly decor: Opt for pet-safe decorations and avoid using tinsel, which can be harmful if ingested.

•Candles and lights: Keep an eye on lit candles and ensure wires from lights are safely tucked away to avoid chewing.

2. Holiday Gatherings: •Safe spaces: Create a quiet retreat for your pet away from the hustle of guests if they feel overwhelmed.

•Watch exits: With people coming and going, ensure pets don’t escape through open doors.

3. Emergency Preparedness: •Vet contact: Keep your veterinarian’s number handy along with the nearest emergency animal hospital’s information.

•Recognize signs: Be aware of signs of distress or illness and act promptly if you notice any unusual behavior.

A Grave Blanket Anyone?

Doug Weiss

Regardless of culture, religion, or ethnicity, bringing a gift to a loved one’s grave brings a satisfaction of love. People bring flowers, photos, mementos or balloons which brings them an emotional reassurance that their loved ones are not forgotten.

With the drab, cold weather during the holidays we tend to feel very emotional and

has been doing this for 45 years.

The decorating staff there is continuing the tradition; helping the community buy custom decorations for their cemetery needs. I find it very satisfying watching the cemetery change colors as the seasons change.

remember our lost loved ones.

Decorating a grave can give us a feeling of comfort and peace.

No one knows exactly where this Midwest custom came from, but some say it has Nordic origins and others say it started as a Jewish tradition. They would bring tree branches to place on the grave to “raise the grave”. It gave them comfort and let everyone know their loved ones were not forgotten. In the Midwest we use pine boughs to make a grave blanket. Then we decorate them with pinecones, silk flowers and a bow. The greenery stays fresh for the whole winter season. The Farmer’s Market in Collinsville

Do you?

The Holiday Blues The holiday season is often painted as a time of joy, warmth, and celebration. However, for many individuals, it can bring about feelings of sadness, stress, and loneliness. The juxtaposition between the festive cheer surrounding us and our internal emotional landscape can create what is commonly known as the "holiday blues."

What exactly are the holiday blues? It's a term used to describe a range of emotions that can emerge during the holiday season. These feelings might arise due to various reasons, such as: 1. Increased Expectations 2. Loss and Grief 3. Financial Stress 4. Social Isolation 5. Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) Understanding that these feelings are common and acknowledging their validity is the first step in coping with holiday blues.

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Navigating Grief During the Holidays Teresa Reiniger 3. Communicate Your Needs: Don’t be afraid to communicate your needs to friends and family. Let them know how they can support you during the holidays, whether it’s through company, understanding or allowing you space. To-do list can be overwhelming, ask for help.

1. Acknowledge Your Feelings: Grief often brings up varied and sometimes conflicting emotions.

Recognize, validate, and give them space. Give yourself permission to feel all of them without judgement.

2. Create New Traditions: Consider establishing new holiday traditions that honor your loved one or focus on activities that bring you comfort.

4. Set Realistic Expectations: Understand that the holidays may not be the same as they were before your loss. Set realistic expectations for yourself and others. Be gentle with yourself. If you find certain aspects challenging, give yourself permission to stay home and not celebrate.

5. Reach Out For Support: Connect with friends, support groups, or a grief coach who can offer you the space and a listening ear. Sharing your

feelings can be cathartic, and surrounding yourself with understanding individuals can provide much needed comfort.

6. Take Care of Yourself: Remember to prioritize self-care.

Getting enough rest, eating, nourishing meals, and engage in activities that bring you joy and relaxation. Taking care of your physical, emotional, mental and spiritual well-being is crucial during this time.

7. Honoring Memories: Finding meaningful ways to honor and celebrate the memories of your loved one. This could involve creating a tribute, lighting a candle, or participating in activities that hold special significance to you and your departed loved one.

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Start the New Year Off With Focused Determination!

-Jackie Duty

Every breath in our lungs is a gift that should be treasured. Beyond the gift of life, I must acknowledge all the people that have helped me along the journey.

I don’t believe in the “self-made” person. No one can accomplish great success without the help of other people contributing their gifts and talents towards a common goal. To move forward with hope for a bright future, success is much more attainable when you surround yourself with people that help, not hinder, the process.

Every person has a different definition of success.

Over the last twenty years, I have attributed the path of success as a journey to take and it can be placed in an analogy of climbing a mountain.

Among the rugged terrains and icy altitudes, there exists a group of individuals whose expertise and support have become synonymous with conquering these formidable summits—the Sherpas.

For centuries, the Sherpas have served as guides, porters, and invaluable companions for mountaineers seeking to scale the world's highest peaks. Their name has become synonymous with resilience, strength, and an intimate understanding of the treacherous mountain landscapes. However, their significance stretches far beyond being mere guides; their

contributions extend deeply into the realms of culture, economy, and safety for those who dare to undertake the challenge of these colossal summits.

At the core of their significance lies an unparalleled understanding of the terrain. The

Sherpas possess an innate familiarity with the mountains, their weather patterns, crevasses, and precarious routes.

This intimate knowledge, passed down through generations, serves as a beacon of guidance, ensuring the safety and success of mountaineers who entrust themselves to their care.

In addition to their unparalleled expertise, Sherpas play an instrumental role in the logistical support required for expeditions. They serve as porters, carrying heavy loads of equipment, food, and supplies, allowing climbers to focus on the climb itself. Their strength and endurance in carrying immense weights through challenging terrain are awe-inspiring, and their unwavering commitment to ensuring the well-being of their climbing parties is unparalleled.

The future belongs --to those who-believe in the beauty of their dreams.

-Eleanor Roosevelt Just like climbing a mountain with the best sherpas, you need the best teams to build the best path towards your expected goals. As you prepare for 2024, take time to acknowledge those that have helped you along the way, have gratitude for every moment of this beautiful life, and take time to build a team of sherpas that can help you climb the next mountain.

Get ready for the best year of your life…..so far!

13

Merry Christmas from all of us at

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2024

CLUB #3215 ROTARY DISTRICT 6460 IN SOUTHERN ILLINOIS

ROTARY EMPOWERS YOU TO MAKE THE WORLD A BETTER PLACE STARTING IN YOUR COMMUNITY.....

2023 Contributions • • • • • • • • •

$5,000.00 - Donated to the Collinsville Area Community Foundation (CACF) $6,000 - Johnny O Scholarships $3,000.00 - Donation for the CMS and DIS Literacy programs $450.00 - Sponsor 2 students to attend the Rotary Youth Leadership Academy (RYLA) $1,500.00 - Sponsorship of the Homework Help & Hoops (HHH) summer reading program $1,000.00 - Donation to the Collinsville Food Pantry 3 - Soup Kitchen Meals Purchased and installed wheelchair swing at Woodland Park Metro East Teen Driver Safety Days P.O. Box 328, Collinsville, IL 62234 |

Email: cmcrotaryclub@gmail.com