Little Egypt Family Magazine November 2013 by Little Egypt Family Magazine

T H A N K F U L F O R FA M I LY. . .

appy thanksgiving to all our readers! This issue is all about the holiday season and how we can show our appreciation for what we have by helping those who don’t have enough. Please let our supporting advertisers know that you saw them in the magazine. We couldn’t publish without them! The magazine features some great articles about subjects we love; Black Friday shopping, teaching your kids to be thankful, ideas to help create a great holiday season for those less fortunate and a little cosmic science just in time for Thanksgiving. I also want to take the time to say a big ‘thank you’ from me to all the people who make this magazine possible. Our account executives, writers, administrative and design staff make Little Egypt Family Magazine possible I was contemplating Thanksgiving while I worked out the other day. It’s a uniquely American holiday and one I have come to love. My son, John, will be visiting for two weeks and we have lots of family stuff planned: We’re going to see the Nutcracker Ballet at the Cason Center in Paducah, we’re planning on a trip to St Louis and of course, Thanksgiving dinner with my husband, Britt, and his family in Greenbrier, Tennessee. There will be lots of good food and fellowship I am sure. I am especially thankful for my family this year. I was able to visit England and see all my relatives and friends this past April. I am adopted but I have re-connected with my birth parents, which means I have a large number of people who I consider ‘family’. Growing up, my adopted family was not very big: Only my Uncle Bob had children and family gatherings could fit into his living room. I have a sister and three cousins close to my age and so far, I am only one who has children. My birth Mum on the other hand, has a large family and there are plenty of cousins, aunts, and now nieces. My father lives in St. Louis and I have siblings and aunts, cousins and nieces all over southern Missouri and Illinois. My son, daughter and grandson live in San Francisco; which is literally half way round the world from where I was born. My husband Britt comes from a larger family that enjoys getting together for birthdays and holidays. Both he and his mother and brother like to cook, which makes for some great meals. I have come to appreciate southern cooking as Tennessee is firmly below the ‘grits line’! (Seriously there is a grits line…they serve them in Paducah but not so much in Metropolis. Once you cross that bridge, you are in the south!) Who knew that fried green tomatoes could be so good! Despite the distances involved, I make an effort to stay in touch with everyone. When I first moved to the U.S. over 35 years ago, I wrote a lot of letters. Now, the internet and Facebook have helped me to stay connected. Having survived cancer twice my family is more important to me than ever. This year has been special: I have been able to hug them all.

Little Egypt Family Magazine Editor/Publisher: Karen Hammond Cell 270-559-5840 Office 270-415-9400 www.littleegyptfamilymag.com

Contributing Writers: Rick Epstein, Jason Lindsey, Robin Passante, Tammy Samples and Nikki Tapscott Calendar of Events: Tell our 80,000⃰ +readers about your event, class, group, church or service! Send an email to karen@littleegyptfamilymag.com or call the office at 270-415-9400. Calendar Editor: Kristin Taylor Art Director: Angie Kimbro Advertising: Want to advertise your business in the magazine? Have a question regarding ad rates, billing or your account? Contact our advertising department at 270-415-9400 or by email karen@littleegyptfamilymag.com Advertising Account Executives: Rebekah Savage, William Decker, Stephen Baker Subscription and Distribution: Want to subscribe or receive a copy of the magazine by mail? Need a back issue? Want to add a location to our distribution? Please call our office at 270-4159400 or email karen@littleegyptfamilymag.com Mission Statement: Purchase Area Family Magazine & Little Egypt Family Magazine are committed to providing free, accurate and timely information to readers in Western Kentucky, Southern Illinois and all its communities. Our goal is to educate, inform, and enhance family life. We endeavor to support our communities by providing balanced and informative articles, together with the area’s most comprehensive and inclusive calendar of events. ⃰ Based on an industry average of 4 impressions

We want to wish all our readers a very Happy Thanksgiving and oh, here’s a friendly reminder – it’s only 55 days to Christmas!

-Karen Hammond 4 • November2013 www.littleegyptfamilymag.com

per copy.

TA B L E O F C O N T E N T S F E AT U R E S First Southern Bank . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6

It’s the Day after Thanksgiving, Time for Shopping Madness! by: Nikki Tapscott . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10

Teaching Kids the Value of Thankfulness by: Robin Passante . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .14

THANKFULNESS Five Ways to Share Your Blessings during Thanksgiving by: Tammy Samples . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .33

ENDING NOTES Advertiser’s Index . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43 Snapshots . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44

Thrifty Travel 101 by: Eddit Grant . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .17

cover models: Brynn Decker age 6

D E PA R T M E N T S

Callie Scott age 3

HOOKED ON SCIENCE Catch Nature’s Fireworks this Thanksgiving! by: Jason Lindsey . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .22

FAT H E R H O O D F O D D E R An Appetite for Thanksgiving by: Rick Epstein . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .20

CALENDAR Calendar . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24

COMMUNITY NEWS Fighting Food Insecurity in Southern Ilinois by: Tammy Samples . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36

Little Egypt Family Magazine • P.O. Box 8061, Paducah KY 42002 Little Egypt Family Magazine® is published monthly by All Good Media L.L.C. Advertising design by sarily reflect the opinions of Little Egypt Family Magazine® , Angie Kimbro, Glen Dunkerson & Laura K. Thornton and layout by Angie Kimbro. Little Egypt Family Magazine®, Angie Kimbro, Glen Dunkerson & Laura K. Thornton are not responsible for any injury or harm resulting from the information or advice contained in this magazine. The articles in this issue of Little Egypt Family Magazine® may not necessarily reflect the opinions of Little Egypt Family Magazine® , Angie Kimbro, Glen Dunkerson & Laura K. Thornton. All subscription, editorial, and advertising inquiries should be directed to karen@littleegyptfamilymag.com (270) 415-9400

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Back – left to right - Annie Decker (age 10), Jaeda Qualls (age 6), Brynn Decker (age 6), Danielle Scott (age 7), Jesse Ellet (age 11) Front – left to right - Aubrey Bahr (age 4), Callie Jo Decker (age 4), Callie Scott (age 3)

s a locally owned and operated bank in Southern Illinois, First Southern has served the region with hard work and experience for over a decade. Since its inception in 2002, First Southern Bank has experienced steady expansion. It began as the smallest bank in Jackson County but today, it is one of the leading providers of small business loans and one of the top providers of home loans in the county. With more than Two Hundred and Forty Five million dollars in current assets, First Southern Bank has become the largest bank in Jackson County.

History of First Southern Bank The idea of a locally owned and operated community bank began when four Southern Illinois bankers, John Dosier, Steve Schauwecker, Patty Shay and Kevin Klaine combined with six local business people to form the executive officer and director group of First Southern Bank. The group’s initial concept, which is still in place today, is founded on the principals of providing the traditional financial products of a community bank in combination with the most current product technology available. But what makes First Southern Bank unique is its friendly, “first name”, personal customer service. President and CEO, John Dosier is very proud of the bank’s continued growth. “Our success would not have been possible without the support of our customers and shareholders,” he said. “Of course, our biggest strength is the bank’s dedicated employees. We are proud to have experienced lenders on our staff who can make decisions locally and in a timely fashion. In addition, our board of directors consists of respected local citizens who not only provide valuable management oversight, but can offer their perspectives as local Southern Illinois business owners.”

Customers First Since its founding, First Southern’s goal has been to provide local banking with attention to each customer’s personal needs. The bank takes pride in the high level of customer service it provides. You can walk into any branch and feel welcome as soon as you enter. Every customer is greeted at the door and treated with both care, and kindness. First Southern Bank always puts the customer first!

Teller – Jesse Ellet (age 11) Customer – Jaeda Qualls (age 6)

‘This article is paid advertising and the information contained therein is provided by the featured individual or business. They are solely responsible for its accuracy.’

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Mindy Combs, Vice President of Marketing and Business Development, is proud of First Southern Bank’s standing in the region. “We continue to work hard to offer a ‘hometown’ feel,” she told me. The bank is committed to being a leader in the community, and supporting local civic and charitable organizations. We do this in many ways, not just by writing a check: Our board of directors and many of our employees are active on community boards. They give freely of their time and services for many causes across Southern Illinois.”

Instant Issue Debit Cards – Personalized! On our cover this month are two adorable little girls, Brynn Decker age 6 and Callie Scott age 3. They are holding giant replicas of First Southern Bank’s latest innovative service -

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Instant Issue debit cards which can now be personalized! “We are always looking for new ways to provide exceptional service and convenient products to our customers,” said Combs. One of those new products is the exciting Instant Issue Debit Cards recently unveiled and released at First Southern Bank. If a debit card is lost or damaged, customers can now get a new one - instantly. For the first time the new Instant Issue Debit Cards also allow customers to personalize their debit cards. Customers can choose from more than 20 pre-selected backgrounds or create their own background with a favorite photo. Just imagine your favorite picture of your child, pet or from your vacation right on your card! With the Instant Issue Debit Cards, banking has never been more personal.

Total Banking

At First Southern Bank…“It’s Personal”!

Whether you are running a business or a busy Mom on the go, First Southern provides the convenience of 24/7 banking from your home, office, or mobile device. You can bank at a branch, an ATM, by phone, on the web, or on your phone. First Southern Bank offers checking and savings accounts, for personal and business use. Their staff will assist you with CD’s and IRA’s, as well as a full line of business financial services including loans and merchant card services.

You have many choices for your banking needs and First Southern Bank realizes that they must earn the right to be your bank of choice. Whether you bank with First Southern Bank by using one of their 24/7 convenience driven products, or you visit them in person at one of their locations in Carbondale, Murphysboro, and Grand Tower, every customer is guaranteed to receive the same level of exceptional customer service.

Online Bill Pay Many people enjoy the convenience of paying their bills online. It’s quick and saves writing checks, and mailing payments. First Southern Bank offers a full selection of pay online services, and you can sign up at any of their branches.

For more information about First Southern Bank, their products, and services: Call (618) 549-3621 or visit www.firstsouthernbank.net v

Mobile Banking First Southern Bank’s Mobile Banking service offers a flexible, safe and secure way to monitor and control your First Southern Bank accounts anytime, anyplace. There are three ways to access your account information from your mobile device: texting, mobile browser or downloading the mobile application. SMS Text Messaging: Allows you to check account balances and review recent account activity. Mobile Browser and Mobile Applications: Allows you to check account balances, review recent account activity, transfer money between accounts, pay bills, change and cancel pending payments, and find ATM and First Southern Bank branch locations. Ask representatives at any of our branches to assist you in setting up the mobile banking service for your accounts. It is easy and it is Free!

Extra Secure Online Banking First Southern Bank has added a layer of security to their Online Banking login process to further validate your identity. The security features are designed to keep your personal account information protected from fraud and identity theft. First Southern Bank is committed to keeping your personal financial data safe and secure.

Sitting – left to right – Annie Decker (age 10), Callie Jo Decker (age 4), Brynn Decker (age 6), Callie Scott (age 3) Standing – Aubrey Bahr

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lack Friday – words that strike fear into the hearts of some; but I am not one of them! Yes, I am referring to the biggest shopping day of the year: The Day after Thanksgiving. For years people have asked me, “What time do you get up?” or, “Are you one of those crazy people that shops on that day?” It’s a fact that as many as one in three adults go shopping on ‘Black Friday’ every year, but polls report that only 57% of them find it fun! (I think they just need more caffeine or sugar to wake them up.) I am one of those crazy people that really enjoy shopping on ‘Black Friday’ and I get all my holiday shopping done in one day! Then I can enjoy the rest of the holiday season without the stress of last minute gift shopping. For over 15 years I have braved the crowds and the madness. In fact, I’ve come up with a system that takes the stress out of the whole day. I was first introduced to this fun of Black Friday when I lived in California. This was before I had my wonderful children

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and when stores actually gave you stuff for standing in line at 5 a.m.! JC Penny’s use to give out Mickey Mouse snow globes, Target would give the first 150 people that walked through their doors a “goody bag” filled with coupons and snacks. Hello, you get free stuff standing in line at 5 a.m., in the cold, usually rainy, November morning? I am so there!

How do we do it? Through the years, many have asked us “How do you do it?” They ask for tips and advices on surviving the day: How do we buy for everyone on our lists, save money and have fun? We start around the beginning of November with a list of people I would like to buy for that includes friends, family, co-workers and neighbors. I usually sit at a local coffee shop or in the comfort of my own home and write it all down in a spiral notebook or folder. Next, I make a section in the notebook where I write down the person’s name and what they like or want. For our kids this is usually quite a long list because I think about everything they have asked for during the year and write it down.

FRIDAY

TIPS

Handy

BLACK

1. Use the coupons: Get online and find coupons starting at the beginning of the month. Store may wait until the last minute to post them so check right before you head out the door. 2. Subscribe to all your favorite stores via email and check those discounts. 85% of retailers will send an email with coupons to their customers. If you shop online on ‘Cyber Monday’ and at the checkout it asks for a promo code, wait to purchase and see if you can find the promo code on another website: It’s out there somewhere but they usually don’t post it up on the website. 3. ‘Small Business Saturday’ will get you some deals when you shop local small businesses. 4. Get a list and stick with it, and get big ticket items first.

Remember, you don’t know what will be on sale or a great deal on the day. If you have a lot of different ideas you can pick an item that is on sale. Sometimes, there may be a specific item that they have asked for and that is when you must begin hunting for the best price. Last I made another section in my note book for specific stores. I wrote the item that I wanted to get there, the advertised sale price and what time the store opened on ‘Black Friday’. This was a quick reference I used on when I wanted to double check that I had bought everything from that store I needed.

Organization, lists and a lot of caffeine are key on this day. Recently, the opening times of stores have changed. Up until last year I always woke up with my best friend at 3 a.m., went to McDonalds to eat breakfast and start our day of fun. Last year we got the chance to start on Thanksgiving night with Wal-Mart and Best Buy promoting Thanksgiving Door Busters. Were you one of the people standing in line around the building last year? Now I do agree that the hysteria of ‘Black Friday’ has grown over the years. In some big cities, and even smaller towns, people just lose their mind and go crazy! You have to be prepared for a little nuttiness!

Visit

Schmidt Farms Apples ‘N’ Cider Mulling Spices Old Fashioned Candies Jellies • Jams • Relishes M-F 8-5 • Sat 8-3 3005 Cario Rd • Paducah (Exit 3 - East 2.5 miles off I-24)

443-0136

5. Shop with a friend; then one of you can stand in the long line while the other shops.

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a.m. and find a newspaper so I don’t miss the ads. Newspaper ads are my key to narrowing down my list: I compare what’s on sale to the list I made in my notebook and figure out what store to visit first. This is truly when the waiting game begins: On Thanksgiving, ‘Turkey Day’, you wait for the newspaper, you wait for Black Friday to start, you wait for the store to open, you wait in the lines to spend your money, then you wait in traffic. It makes absolutely no sense, but it is fun!

The BIG Day! On line preparation To find savings and deals I subscribe to my favorite stores email lists. Yes, I do receive tons of emails but it is worth it to get those special holiday offers and coupons. Stores either mail, or email coupons, and you can combine them with free shipping which really saves a lot of money. Have you seen how thick the newspaper is with all the ads on Thanksgiving Day? I always ask my husband to get up at 4

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By 4 a.m. we are showered and the Christmas music is playing. We are dressed in layers with make-up and hair done, and wearing comfortable shoes. (One year we were standing in line when a TV camera came by. There we were with no make-up and our hair all crazy looking!). We eat breakfast at Cracker Barrel, get our café mocha at Starbucks then hit the line at the first store on the list. That store usually decided by the most expensive item we each have to buy and what time

the store opens. One year Cheryl saved $400 on a TV. We stood in line for an hour and a half but it was so worth it! This is the one day of the year we eat junk food all day and drink tons of caffeine to keep us going. It’s a day we laugh, give thanks all day long, and truly enjoy the friendship and time spent together. Plus we find deals, use our coupons and at the end of the day we add up all our savings to see who gets bragging rights. I admit I get a great feeling knowing I was going to buy the majority of the items anyway. But now I have been able to save a lot of money. I mean seriously - how many times during the year do you get to say, “We had to run home to unload the car between shopping trips to make room for more stuff?” I save, on average, over $1,000 shopping this way. It is easy to do if you are organized, use the deals and coupons most stores supply you with.

Done in a weekend! Because I always get my shopping done on this day, the tree can go up on Saturday with presents under it, and I can decorate the house. Sunday I go to the grocery store and put the lights on the outside of the house. If I’m super organized I can also get my Christmas cards filled out ready to be mailed. Then guess what, before December 1st it is all done! I can relax and enjoy the holiday season. With a whole month to enjoy the true meaning of Christmas maybe it’s time to make new holiday traditions? Volunteer for a soup kitchen or another community charity. Bake some new holiday items and invite the neighbors over for an ‘open house’ to celebrate. You planned, you organized and you saved! Now you have everything done in one weekend so go for it! Time to relax and have a very happy holiday season! v

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By: Robin Passante

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e know Thanksgiving is about more than turkey and pie, but often in the rush to set a pretty table and buy the ingredients for the perfect meal we don’t stop to make sure our kids know that, too. It’s not until we’re sitting down with family ready to dig in to the turkey that we think about offering a prayer of thanksgiving or talking about what we’re thankful for this year. Teaching kids about thankfulness doesn’t take long but leaves a lasting impression. Here are some tips for getting kids to understand the significance of Thanksgiving, and of giving thanks.

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Model it Watch the kinds of things you talk about with your spouse in the presence of your children. Do you spend time every night at the dinner table griping about your jobs and arguing over who has to do the dishes? Not every conversation you share has to be about sunshine and roses, but you do want to convey an overall message of gratefulness and cooperation. Be outwardly thankful that you have a job, a roof over your heads, food on the table and running water with which to wash those dirty dishes. Kids need to know these things are blessings, not birthrights. Also, be sure to mind your manners in public and at home, and write thank-you notes for gifts, party invitations and other kind gestures from others.

Make it Visual. Create a ‘Thankful Tree’, using construction paper taped to your wall to form the trunk and branches (or find a small branch from the yard and bring it inside, placing it in a vase). Cut out leaves from construction paper, (it’s easy to trace them using leaf-shaped cookie cutters if you have them), and ask your kids what they’re thankful for. Write each thing on a leaf and hang or tape them on the tree. As a family, add to the tree every day (or at least once a week). Include a few of the things you are thankful for too. After Thanksgiving you can collect the leaves and place them in a small box or

plastic bag labeled with the current year and store them away with your other holiday decorations. You’ll make a new tree with new leaves next year, but it’s fun to read what everyone was thankful for in previous years. To carry this tradition through the Christmas season, do a Thankful Chain instead of a tree. Write each thing you and your child is thankful for on a small strip of paper before adding it to the paper chain using a bit of glue or tape. Then you can put the paper chain on your Christmas tree after Thanksgiving, and continue to add to it if you like.

Foster Gratefulness by Giving Back Volunteering with your child makes a lasting impression about being grateful for all that you have. Spend a couple hours visiting the residents of a local nursing home or lending a hand at a food pantry. Find a nonprofit organization that has a list of needy families and choose a child or family to buy gifts or food for this holiday season. You can also fill a shoebox with gifts and toiletries for a needy boy or girl your child’s age through Operation Christmas Child (www.samaritanspurse.org/index.php/ OCC/index). It’s a Christian organization that helps kids in need around the world, and there are helpful video clips, photos and instructions on the website that bring home the message for your kids about others who are less fortunate.

Reinforce it Year-Round Thanksgiving comes but once a year, but giving thanks is a year-round ideal we want to instill in our kids. Teach your children the art of writing thank-you notes to relatives who send gifts and cards to them. This reinforces the importance of giving thanks. So, too, does practicing good manners, both at home and out in the world. v Robyn Passante is a freelance journalist and mother of two who can’t wait until her boys are big enough to write their own thank-you notes.

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hen we fly, we all want to get the most ‘bang’ for our travel buck, and even when we think we get a good deal, we always end up sitting next to someone that paid less, and we wonder why. Airline prices change almost daily and there are as many factors, and complex formulas that go into ticket prices as there are airlines that set them. The one thing that is certain is there is no way to guarantee that you’ll get the best deal. But with a little bit of knowledge about how the industry works, you just might score a better price for your airfare.

Hubs When an airline chooses a city for one of their routes it looks at where people need, or want, to go regularly. This helps to ensure that their planes will be full and they will make money. After all, if no one from Paducah needs to get to Cleveland on a regular basis, those planes would be empty and not profitable. Obviously, airlines fly to cities that will help ensure their planes are as full as possible, which is why many airlines fly from smaller cities like Paducah, Evansville and Marion to ‘hub

airports’ such as Chicago, Atlanta, Charlotte, and Dallas: They draw from regional populations, as opposed to individual towns. With a few exceptions, many planes from even large cities such as St. Louis and Nashville fly to the bigger airports for the same reason - to feed the hubs. By supplying these hub cities from all over the country, both the numbers of flights available and the possible number of destinations increase. At the same time this lowers the airlines’ overhead costs, which combined with market competition, allows for lower ticket prices. This is advantageous for travelers as it means access to worldwide destinations with fewer plane changes from towns like Paducah. This lowers travel costs by saving gas, food, and hotel expenses, as well as time, and eliminates other issues associated with driving.

Flights per Week Next airlines look at the number of flights they need to have to serve the city effectively. For example, in Paducah’s case there are 14 commercial flights a week to

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Chicago, while Evansville has 25 flights to O’Hare, these numbers are based on regional population, as well as the need and profitability for the route. These facts are important to know when looking at airfares because it speaks to basic supply and demand. Since there are fixed numbers of available seats any to destination, airlines want to charge the most money for those seats that they possibly can. Therefore as seats on a particular flight fill up, the value and cost for the remaining seats increases: The closer to your departure date that you book your flight, the more money it will cost you. In other words, if you want to fly to New York on Friday, you will pay more than going next Friday or even a month from now. Because there are typically fewer seats available for this Friday’s flight, than next Friday, and so on.

Getting the Best Fare So the question becomes how far out can you book and still get a better fare? Whenever possible, two weeks is a good threshold to consider: It’s far enough out that

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planes typically aren’t too full and the airline wants to get more money for those seats, but its close enough that you can usually plan your trip.

Be Flexible All of this leads into the next point, flexibility. For example; if you want to go to Orlando for spring break, typically you will want to leave on a Saturday morning, just like everyone else who has the same idea. Airlines know this so they will charge more for flights on that Saturdays, because they know that people who really want to be on those in-demand flights will pay a premium to do so.

Pick a Weekday Now there are a couple ways to avoid paying that premium price. The vast majority of leisure travelers like to travel on Friday or Saturday, so obviously these days will have higher demand. If your travel plans can be flexible you might get a cheaper fare: Try to shift your arrival and departure date by one day in either direction this will usually save some money.

Be Willing to Change Planes Another way to save is to be open to the possibility of one or two plane changes. Using the Orlando analogy, if you really want to get to Orlando on a direct flight, you will pay more because there are fewer of those available, particularly in this region. However if you change planes in Chicago, Charlotte, or Atlanta, you could pay considerably less per ticket. This is because there are more seats available from one of these â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;hubâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; cities to Orlando than there are from smaller locations such as St. Louis or

Evansville. So again, supply and demand figure in to the equation. While there is no guaranteed way to get low airfares, there are still deals to be found. Hopefully with this basic understating of how airlines price their seats you will be well informed when looking for the best airfares. And, in these tougher economic times saving a little bit of money can go a really long way. v

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FAT H E R H O O D F O D D E R

by: Rick Epstein

An Appetite for Thanksgiving Here’s a Thanksgiving joke for you: Pilgrim child in the winter of 1620-21: “I haven’t eaten in two days.” My daughter Marie at age 5: “How come? Didn’t your mom make your favorites?” She had trouble with the idea that the first Thanksgiving dinner was a celebration of a harvest that would keep the Pilgrims from starving during the winter. Marie was a picky eater who saw no connection between food and survival. For her, Thanksgiving was a day “when everybody expects you to eat more than you can.” Her likes and

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dislikes changed from meal to meal, so it was foolish to expect her to like turkey, cranberry sauce and pumpkin pie all on the same day. So she’d turn her attention to dinner-table tussling with her sister and cousins. Thanksgiving is not a big day on the kid calendar, but it is situated auspiciously. On that day, each child is asked to think about all that he has and, once his brain is revved up, it is sent chugging forward toward the gift-receiving season to think about (and list) all that he thinks he OUGHT to have.

Back when Marie was 5, I could not interest her in a discussion of our many blessings. For a kid her age, she was pretty philosophical, but only on topics of her own choosing. (“Could I marry Cousin Amanda?” or “Can invisible people see each other?”) So she would prepare for Thanksgiving by tracing her hand to make turkeys and by learning about the Pilgrims. In preschool she picked up the idea that the Pilgrims had the Indians over for dinner every day in a kind of Peace Corps soup kitchen arrangement. But she got that straightened out before she took her SATs. Her 3-year-old sister Sally had no problem with Thanksgiving dinner. But she was more of an artist than an eater. And a few bold strokes of indelible cranberry red can turn a white linen tablecloth into something that will be marveled at for years. The saying of grace provided a special opportunity for her. It isn’t easy to cut into a lively adult conversation (remember?), but when only one adult would be speaking in a slow, quiet way, the near-silence seemed to invite her contribution. Sally would pipe right up with whatever non sequitur came to her nutty little mind. “What do frogs drink? CroakaCola!” she’d say. (Here’s a question for little Marie to ponder: Does God like jokes? I mean silly, juvenile jokes; not the grim, ironic jokes that cause you to cast an accusatory look heavenward. My Unitarian upbringing tells me He does.) As for the other trappings of the holiday, Sally could recognize a picture of a turkey, but she had not yet received the memo on Pilgrims. In a few years she would be confusing them with the Pennsylvania Dutch. When my kids were little, my brothers’ families and mine would gather at my dad’s house. At dinner, I’d look at the food and all the squirming, clamoring grandchildren, including our crying baby Wendy, and I’d summon a mental image of the famous Norman Rockwell painting – the one that shows three generations of red-cheeked Americans about to close in on a golden-brown turkey. I’d be thinking Rockwell, but I’d have flashes of Hieronymus Bosch. He’s a Dutch painter from the 1400s who’s best stuff consists of scary scenes containing hundreds of wicked imps, distorted pieces of food and weird creatures all simultaneously up to no good. Little-kid mayhem is the spice of life, but this feast was overly seasoned. Well, life is like a visit to an art museum. Sometimes the view is good and sometimes it’s bad. Sometimes you don’t even know if you like it. But if you keep on shuffling along, you’ll see a different picture.

entourages will be back. Wendy, now 19, will make a brief, perfunctory appearance. But her sisters, who are well into their 20s, will help prepare the big meal and then linger long past the pie and coffee, sharing an adult appreciation of their family and relatives. A couple of times a year Marie will find us all especially dear, and she will actually sigh affectionately, “Oh, fam-i-ly!” And this could be one of those times. Without meaning to, she and Sally have become... thankful. v

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This year’s Thanksgiving dinner promises to be more like Cassius Coolidge’s famous poker-dog paintings – a tableful of peers calmly savoring a good time. My brothers and their

www.littleegyptfamilymag.com November2013 • 21

HOOKED ON SCIENCE

by: Jason Lindsey, Science Educator – Hooked on Science

Catch Nature’s Fireworks this Thanksgiving!

hanksgiving is a great time of the year: We eat a lot of really good food and spend time with family, and friends. This year, you might get an opportunity to add a science lesson to your Thanksgiving feast. Comet ISON is scheduled to make an ‘out-of-this-world’ appearance in the sky above Earth on Thanksgiving Day. Some scientists are calling Comet ISON the “comet of the century.” Just like other comets, Comet ISON consists of ice, rock, and gravel; basically it’s a huge dirty snowball. If the comet survives its closest approach to the sun, those looking near the

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east-southeast horizon early on Thanksgiving Day will get a stunning sky show. The comet could light up the sky for weeks. If you have plans of spending some of your Thanksgiving watching the sky for Comet ISON, here are a few tips that will help you get the most out of ISON. • Watch from outside the city to avoid light pollution. • Since Comet ISON is a bright comet you will need to use binoculars for the best view. Remember; NEVER look

directly at the sun with the naked eye or any viewing device like binoculars. • Observe Comet ISON like a scientist. Ask questions such as, “Where is ISON compared to other objects in the sky?” and “What is the comet’s altitude?” If ISON survives and emerges from the sun’s glare, sky watchers will be able to view Comet ISON’s tail with the naked-eye throughout December. If you miss seeing Comet ISON using a few materials from around the house you can check to see if space dust has made it into your backyard. Materials · Jar · Magnet · White piece of paper Instructions STEP 1: Using the jar, have an adult collect some of the fine dry particles from the gutters around your house. STEP 2: Pour some of the particles onto the white piece of paper. STEP 3: Place the magnet under the white piece of paper and then move the magnet around in circles. STEP 4: Remove all the nonmagnetic particles by tilting and tapping the paper. Explanation The fine particles that attract to the magnet are pieces of space dust. Using a high-powered microscope you can get an up-close peek at your micrometeorites. The micrometeorites should be rounded due to their trip from space to Earth. v

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EVENTS CALENDAR

Oct. 31. Contact Julie Schmale at jschmale@gsofsi.org or Jessica Sowers at jsowers@gsofsi.org.

We make every effort to ensure accuracy of information in this calendar; however, changes and cancellations may have occurred since publication. We recommend that you verify all information. Items may be submitted by e-mailing Calendar@littleegygptfamilymag.com.

Shawnee Fall Service Days. Garden of the Gods. 10 AM – 2 PM. Join the Shawnee Volunteer Corps in building and maintaining trails in the forest. Preregistration is required for all workdays. Contact Mississippi Bluffs Ranger Station at 618-833-8576 Ext. 106 or shawneevolunteercorps@yahoo.com.

NOVEMBER FRIDAY 1 First Friday Story Time: Harvest Moon. Cedarhurst’s Beck Family Center, 2600 Richview Road, Mt. Vernon. 10 AM. Free. Open to the public. Stories about the harvest and Thanksgiving. Call 618-242-1236.

SATURDAY 2 Market Days Outdoor Flea Market & Vendor Fair. Grounds of the former Armory, 205 S. 7th Street, Mt. Vernon. 8 AM. - 3 PM. Flea market including crafts, antiques, furniture, household items, baby clothes, kid's clothes, art food, tools and collections. Call 618-242-3151.

Veggie Tales Live – Happy Birthday Bob and Larry. Marion Cultural and Civic Center, 800 Tower Square Plaza, Marion. 7 PM. Presented by WBVN. Tickets for the first six rows will be reserved for Meet + Greet ticket holders ($25). Rows G-T and the first row of the Balcony are $19. All other tickets are $15. Join Bob and Larry and the entire Veggie Tales crew as they put on the biggest birthday party ever celebrating VeggieTales’ 20 years of stories, songs, and fun. More info at 618-997-4030 and www.MarionCCC.com.

MONDAY 4 TUESDAY 5 WEDNESDAY 6

Shawnee Fall Service Days. Panther Den. 10 AM – 3 PM. Join the Shawnee Volunteer Corps in building and maintaining trails in the forest. Preregistration is required for all workdays. Contact Mississippi Bluffs Ranger Station at 618-833-8576 Ext. 106 or shawneevolunteercorps@yahoo.com. The Heiken Puppet Show. Southeastern Illinois College’s Harry L. Crisp Center, Harrisburg. 11 AM and 1 PM. Presented by the Cultural Arts Series. Contact 618-2525400 ext. 3213. Mat Cutting. SIU Student Center Craft Shop. 1 – 3 PM. $10 for SIU students; $15 for others. Learn to cut mat board cleanly and precisely on a professional mat cutter for your art prints or photo projects. Emphasis will be on how to calculate sizes, choose colors, and cut mats. This is a great workshop for art and photography students. Please bring one small item to be matted. Scraps will be provided for practice, mat board is extra. Register in advance. Contact Ron Dunkel at rdunkel@siu.edu or 618453-3636.

SUNDAY 3 Neighborhood Co-op Grocery, Carbondale. Murdale Shopping Center, 1815 W. Main St. Saluki Sunday – 10% off for SIUC and JALC students all day. Every first Sunday of the month. 618-529-3533. The 36th annual Heritage Festival. Southeastern Illinois College, Harrisburg. 10 AM – 4 PM. Free. Includes the Eldorado Alumni Band at 2 PM in the Harry L. Crisp Student Center, arts and crafts, and food. Contact 618-252-5400 ext. 3213. Girl Scouts of Southern Illinois “Challenge & Change.” Benton Public Library. 10 AM – 4 PM. Leadership program for Cadettes – Ambassadors. Registration deadline is

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Using Social Media to Market Your Business. SIU Dunn Richmond Building Room 150, 1740 Innovation Drive, Carbondale. 1 – 3 PM. This informational session will cover the different types of social networking platforms including Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn and HootSuite as well as the benefits of incorporating social networking into a business marketing plan. Contact sbdc@siu.edu or 618-536-2424. Skin Care and Makeup for Teens. C.E. Brehm Memorial Library, 101 S. Seventh St., Mt. Vernon. 6:30 PM. Jane Williams and Lori Ilbery with Mary Kay Cosmetics will share tips about skin care and makeup for teens. Each guest will be doing a makeover. Call 618-242-6322. Cedarhurst Book Club discussion. Cedarhurst Center for the Arts, 2600 Richview Road, Mt. Vernon. Noon. Discussion of “Life” by Keith Richards. Free. Open to the public. As a member of the Rolling Stones, Keith Richards created the songs that roused the world, and he lived the original rock and roll life. Now, at last, the man himself tells his story of life in the crossfire hurricane. Read his story, then pack a lunch and join the discussion to compare notes on the rock and roll legend. Call 618242-1236.

THURSDAY 7 Fall Musical Performances. Shawnee Community College’s Education Center. 9 AM and noon. Stars & Steel Guitars. Benton Civic Center, 414 W. Hudelson St., Benton. 1 PM Thursday; 10 AM – 11 PM continuous Friday and Saturday. Advance tickets – $12/Thursday; $20/Friday; $22/Saturday; $50/weekend. Tickets at the door -$14/Thursday; $22/Friday; $24/Saturday; $55/weekend. Contact 618-435-5700.

Fall Play: "Treasure Island.” Rend Lake College Theater. 7 PM. Call 618-437-5321.

FRIDAY 8 Fall Musical Performances. Shawnee Community College’s Education Center. 9 AM and noon. Stars & Steel Guitars. Benton Civic Center, 414 W. Hudelson St., Benton. 10 AM – 11 PM continuous Friday and Saturday. Advance tickets – $12/Thursday; $20/Friday; $22/Saturday; $50/weekend. Tickets at the door -- $14/Thursday; $22/Friday; $24/Saturday; $55/weekend. Contact 618-435-5700. Fall Feast Celebration. Alto Vineyards Tasting Room, 8515 Illinois 127, Alto Pass. 6:30 – 8 PM. A four course, locally sourced meal expertly paired with Shawnee Hills wine. Fall Play: "Treasure Island.” Rend Lake College Theater. 7 PM. Call 618-437-5321.

SATURDAY 9 "Every Mile a Memory" 5K Color Run for Alzheimer's Awareness. Veterans Memorial Park, Mt. Vernon. Registration is at 7 a.m.; race starts at 9. Sponsored by Mt. Vernon Health Care Center. Proceeds to benefit Illinois Alzheimer's Association. Call 618242-1064. Fall Musical Performances. Shawnee Community College’s Education Center. 9 AM and noon. 38th Annual AutumnFest. John A. Logan, 700 Logan Drive, Carterville. 9 AM – 4 PM. Free admission and parking. More than 110 exhibitors of handcrafted arts, crafts and specialty foods. Contact 1-800-851-4720, 618-985-2828 ext. 8015, or emilyhenson@jalc.edu. Stars & Steel Guitars. Benton Civic Center, 414 W. Hudelson St., Benton. 10 AM – 11 PM. Advance tickets –$22. Tickets at the door – $24/Saturday. Saturday’s line up: Ron Elliott, Doug Jernigan, Lynn Owsley, Buck Reid and Tommy White. Saturday's Nashville Backup Band: Rick Boyer, Mike Dunbar, Rick Vanaugh, Rick Reed, Tom Campbell, Rodney Crisp, Bobby Reed, David Chamberlain, Jean DeVore, Dottie Jack, and Amber Martin. Local steel guitarists: Johnny Arview, Rob Arview, Lee Brothers, Lyle Clary, Carl Kilmer, Bobby Reed, and Fred Rushing. Contact 618-435-5700. The Massiac Marines, French and Indian War Period Reenactment. Fort Massac State Park, 1308 E. Fifth St., Metropolis, 10 AM – 4 PM. Free. The reenactors will present displays and interpretive programs on celebrating the harvest. At this time of plenty, you will learn about the foods of the period and the spices they used. Contact 618-524-4712. "The Little Rascals.” Granada Center for the Performing Arts, 108 N. Ninth St., Mt. Vernon. Doors open at 1:30 PM.; movie starts at 2. Free. Children must be accompanied by an adult. Drawing for a free kid’s birthday party at Froggeez before the movie. Sponsored by Community First Bank. Call 618-740-0707. Zadok Casey Portrayal. Jefferson County Historical Village, 1411 N. 27th St., Mt. Vernon. 2 PM. Local historians Sid Milliner and Bob Pemberton will present an interview-style program in which Milliner portrays Zadok Casey, an American politician and one of the founders of the city of Mt. Vernon. Call 618-246-0033. Boot Camp for Dads. Carbondale Memorial Hospital, 405 W. Jackson Street, Carbondale. 2 – 5 PM. Free.Veteran dads, who have 3-12 months experience bring their babies to class and share their experience with the expectant fathers. Activities allow the fathers-to-be to get some hands-on experience handling a baby. Contact SIH Physician Referral & Event Registration Center at 618-549-0721. Fall Play: "Treasure Island.” Rend Lake College Theater. 7 PM. Call 618-437-5321.

SUNDAY 10 Girl Scouts of Southern Illinois “Challenge & Change.” City of Anna Community

Center. 10 AM – 4 PM. Leadership program for Cadettes – Ambassadors. Registration deadline is Nov. 7. Contact Julie Schmale at jschmale@gsofsi.org or Jessica Sowers at jsowers@gsofsi.org. 38th Annual AutumnFest. John A. Logan, 700 Logan Drive, Carterville. 10 AM – 4 PM. Free admission and parking. More than 110 exhibitors of handcrafted arts, crafts and specialty foods. Contact 1-800-851-4720, 618-985-2828 ext. 8015, or emilyhenson@jalc.edu. Shawnee Fall Service Days. Panther Den. 10 AM – 3 PM. Join the Shawnee Volunteer Corps in building and maintaining trails in the forest. Preregistration is required for all workdays. Contact Mississippi Bluffs Ranger Station at 618-833-8576 Ext. 106 or shawneevolunteercorps@yahoo.com. Disney Live: Tree Classic Fairy Tales. Southern Illinois University Arena, 1400 Arena Drive, Carbondale. 1 PM and 4 PM. Prepare to step into a world of wonder where wishing is only the beginning and dreams really do come true in Disney Live! Presents Three Classic Fairy Tales. Join Mickey, Minnie, Donald and Goofy as they bring the timeless fairytale adventures of Cinderella, Beauty and The Beast, and Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs to life. Ages 1 and older must have a ticket. Contact 618-4532000. Fall Play: "Treasure Island.” Rend Lake College Theater. 2 PM. Call 618-437-5321. United Methodists in Action benefit auction. West Salem Trinity United Methodist, 4212 Broadway, Mt. Vernon. 6 – 8 PM. Features. local artwork, crafts, and baked goods. All proceeds will be used to send area residents on mission trips outside the U.S. Contact Wendy Denzler at 618-246-0250.

MONDAY 11 VETERANS’ DAY. TUESDAY 12 WEDNESDAY 13 THURSDAY 14 Home School Class: Digestive System. The Science Center of Southern Illinois, 1237 E. Main., Sp 1048, Carbondale. $5/child; $15/family. Session 1: 1; preK through 8 years old. Session 2: 2 PM; ages 9 and up. To register, call 618-529-5431 before 5 PM the day before. Holiday Gift Ideas. SIU Student Center Craft Shop. 11 AM – 8 PM. Ceramic slab plate, pinecone wreaths, slip cast ceramic coffee mug, fused glass holiday ornament. Must supply your own elongated pine cones. Check our website for updates on this activity: studentcenter.siu.edu. Contact Ron Dunkel at rdunkel@siu.edu or 618-453-3636.

FRIDAY 15 Holiday Gift Ideas. SIU Student Center Craft Shop. 11 AM – 8 PM. Ceramic slab plate, pinecone wreaths, slip cast ceramic coffee mug, fused glass holiday ornament. Must supply your own elongated pine cones. Check our website for updates on this activity: studentcenter.siu.edu. Contact Ron Dunkel at rdunkel@siu.edu or 618-453-3636. Grown Ups’ Night Out. The Science Center of Southern Illinois, 1237 E. Main., Sp 1048, Carbondale. 5:30-8:30 PM. $15 for members; $20 for non-members. Children of all ages are welcome but must be potty trained. Dinner, free-play, “James and the Giant Peace” movie (rated PG) and science activities included. Registration is required by 5 PM Nov. 14. Contact si.sciencecenter@gmail.com or 618-529-5431. Christmas Bazaar. Union County Museum, 117 S. Appleknocker Drive, Cobden. Weekends Nov. 16 – Dec. 14. 8 AM – 4 PM Saturdays; 1-4 PM Sundays. Free.This annual event features Christmas decorations and gifts at reasonable prices. Call 618-8932865.

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EVENTS CALENDAR Alto Vineyard Holiday Art Show. Alto Vineyards, 8515 Illinois 127, Alto Pass. 4 – 7 PM. Paintings, fiber works, hand-blown glass pumpkins, photography and ceramics featuring local artists Karen Fiorino, Wil Maring, Mike Chervinko, Jan York, Butché, Missy Carstens, Retha Daugherty, Tim Shepherd, LizBeck, Sarah Shoot, Patty Morrison, Beth Martell, Nina Kovar, and Teresa Fix. Fall Fundraiser for the Science Center of Southern Illinois 5-10 p.m., Varsity Center for the Arts, 418 S. Illinois Ave., Carbondale. Music, light refreshments, silent & live auction, beer & wine service, SIU Moon Buggy display. Tickets $10 in advance, $15 at door, $5 after 7:30, available at yoursciencecenter.org, or at the Science Center (across from Macys) in the University Mall, Carbondale.

Vernon. 11 AM both Nov. 16 and 23. Must attend both classes. Learn to knit a simple scarf. Bring your own knitting needles and a skein of yarn. Call 618-242-6322. Holiday Gift Ideas. SIU Student Center Craft Shop. 11 AM – 8 PM. Ceramic slab plate, pinecone wreaths, slip cast ceramic coffee mug, fused glass holiday ornament. Must supply your own elongated pine cones. Check our website for updates on this activity: studentcenter.siu.edu. Contact Ron Dunkel at rdunkel@siu.edu or 618-453-3636.

SATURDAY 16

Annual fall fundraiser for The Science Center of Southern Illinois. The Varsity Center of the Arts. 5 PM. $10 tickets include one free drink. Includes live and silent auction, food from Cristaudo's, and live music. Contact 618-529-5431 or yoursciencecenter@gmail.com if you have items or services to donate for auctions or want to volunteer.

Toy Box Tag Sale. Veterans Park Community Building, Mt. Vernon. 9 AM. Call 618-2426890.

SUNDAY 17

Fair Trade Craft Show. First United Methodist Church, 12th and Main streets, Mt. Vernon. 9 AM – 5 PM. Free. The crafts are handmade by artisans, 70 percent of whom are women, from more than 45 developing countries across the globe. Marketing their crafts at fair trade shows provides vital income for these people, income that is used to put food on the table, to provide healthcare, and to clothe and educate children. Lunch will be available. Call 618-242-1030. Shawnee Fall Service Days. Garden of the Gods. 10 AM – 2 PM. Join the Shawnee Volunteer Corps in building and maintaining trails in the forest. Preregistration is required for all workdays. Contact Mississippi Bluffs Ranger Station at 618-833-8576 Ext. 106 or shawneevolunteercorps@yahoo.com. Beginners Knitting Class. C.E. Brehm Memorial Library, 101 S. Seventh St., Mt.

Shawnee Fall Service Days. Panther Den. 10 AM – 3 PM. Join the Shawnee Volunteer Corps in building and maintaining trails in the forest. Preregistration is required for all workdays. Contact Mississippi Bluffs Ranger Station at 618-833-8576 Ext. 106 or shawneevolunteercorps@yahoo.com. Orchestra Concert. Rend Lake. 2 PM. Call 618-437-5321. Public Astronomy Observation. SIU’s Neckers Observation Deck. 8 – 10 PM. Free public astronomy observation hosted by the SIU Carbondale Physics Department. The moon will be bright this evening with some deep sky objects visible. The great Orion Nebula and Jupiter should be visible around 9:30 PM. A presentation on the night sky and free hot chocolate will accompany the observation. Children accompanied by adults are welcome. Contact Bob Baer at rbaer@physics.siu.edu or 618453-2729.

MONDAY 18 Cloth Diapering 101. Mom’s Milk Boutique, 601 S. Emma St., West Frankfort. 10:30 – 11 AM. Get a hands on experience and learn all about the different types of cloth diapers, accessories and benefits. Get a coupon code good for a cloth diaper purchase the day of the workshop. Limited space available so pre-register. Contact 618932-3700 or info@momsmilkboutique.com.

TUESDAY 19 WEDNESDAY 20 THURSDAY 21 Starting a Small Business Workshop. Illinois Small Business Development Center – Business & Industry Training, Shawnee Community College, 8364 Shawnee College Road, Ullin. 9 – 11 AM. Free one-time session. Register by Nov. 20. For registration and additional information contact Gabriele Farner at 618-634-3254 or gabrielef@shawneecc.edu.

FRIDAY 22 Herrin Thanksgiving Dinner. Herrin Civic Center. 11 AM – 2 PM. Free. The menu consists of turkey, dressing, mashed potatoes, gravy, green beans, corn, yams, salad, cranberry sauce, bread sticks, pies, cake, cookies, and ice cream. Musical entertainment is provided by Donnie Falknor. For the homebound in Herrin or Energy unable to attend, please call Herrin City Clerk’s office at 942-3175 to arrange a home delivery. For more information, contact Bart Mann at 942-5080. Family Movie Night. C.E. Brehm Memorial Library, 101 S. Seventh St., Mt. Vernon. Doors open at 6:30 PM; movie starts at 7. Free popcorn and bottled water. Kids must be accompanied by an adult and adults must be accompanied by a kid. Call 618242-6322.

SATURDAY 23

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Pope County Deer Festival. Downtown Golconda. The county fair-like celebration is well known for its barbecue. The annual event includes vendors, handmade arts and crafts, wildlife displays and a flea market. Contact 618-683-9702, 618-683-8803 or 618-683-6351. Beginners Knitting Class. C.E. Brehm Memorial Library, 101 S. Seventh St., Mt. Vernon. 11 AM both Nov. 16 and 23. Must attend both classes. Learn to knit a simple scarf. Bring your own knitting needles and a skein of yarn. Call 618-242-6322. Turkey Shoot. Boys & Girls Club of Carbondale, 250 N. Springer, Carbondale. 11 AM – 1 PM. Free. This event gives community youth an opportunity to win a turkey for their Thanksgiving dinner by competing in a timed basketball shooting competition. Contact 618-549-4222. Dodgeball Tournament. Life Community Center, 2500 W. Sunset Drive, Carbondale. 2 PM. $25 entry fee. Three brackets – middle school, high school, adult. Contact the Life Community Center at 618-549-4222. Santa arrives. Illinois Star Centre Mall, 3000 W. Deyoung Street, #604, Marion. 3:30 PM. Contact 618-993-5436.

Animal Presentation: Bald Eagle. The Science Center of Southern Illinois, 1237 E. Main St., Sp 1048, Carbondale. 2 PM. Partnering with Free Again Wildlife Rehabilitation to provide educational and interactive experiences with injured, orphaned, or rehabilitated wildlife. Contact 618-529-5431 or si.sciencecenter@gmail.com. Teen Movie Night. C.E. Brehm Memorial Library, 101 S. Seventh St., Mt. Vernon. Doors open at 6:30 PM; movie starts at 7. Teens must be accompanied by a parent or guardian and the only adults allowed are those parents and guardians. Free popcorn and bottled water. Call 618-242-6322.

SUNDAY 24 MONDAY 25

Holiday Open House. Southern Illinois Art & Artisans Center, 14967 Gun Creek Trail, Whittington. Drop in all weekend for a daily artisan demonstration and refreshments. Learn about found object jewelry, oil painting, and pastels. The artisans shop features the work of more than 850 Illinois artisans and staff can help you find just the right holiday gift. Call 618-629-2220. Oil Painting Demonstration by Wheat Elder. Southern Illinois Art & Artisans Center, 14967 Gun Creek Trail, Whittington. 10 AM. The subjects of Elder's oil paintings are simple, everyday things which create a home. Her still life work imparts an appreciation for the texture of a pumpkin or the play of light on a cream pitcher, evoking feelings of peace, comfort, and rest. Call 618-629-2220.

UPCOMING EVENTS Shawnee Fall Service Days. Join the Shawnee Volunteer Corps in building and maintaining trails in different areas of the forest. 10 AM – 2 PM Garden of the Gods; 10 AM - 3 PM Panther Den and Bald Knob Wilderness various dates at each location. Preregistration is required for all workdays, which are as follows: Oct. 5 – Panther Den; Oct. 6 – Garden of the Gods; Oct. 19 – Panther Den; Oct. 20 – Bald Knob Wilderness; Oct. 26 – Panther Den; Oct. 27 – Bald Knob Wilderness; Nov. 2 – Panther Den; Nov. 3 – Garden of the Gods; Nov. 10 – Panther Den; Nov. 16 – Garden of the Gods; Nov. 17 – Panther Den. Contact Mississippi Bluffs Ranger Station at 618-8338576 Ext. 106 or shawneevolunteercorps@yahoo.com. Veggie Tales Live – Happy Birthday Bob and Larry. Marion Cultural and Civic Center, 800 Tower Square Plaza, Marion. 7 PM Nov. 3. Presented by WBVN. Tickets for the first six rows will be reserved for Meet + Greet ticket holders ($25). Rows G-T and the first row of the Balcony are $19. All other tickets are $15. Join Bob and Larry and the entire Veggie Tales crew as they put on the biggest birthday party ever celebrating VeggieTales’ 20 years of stories, songs, and fun. More info at 618-997-4030 and www.MarionCCC.com. Annual fall fundraiser for The Science Center of Southern Illinois. The Varsity Center of the Arts. Nov. 16. $10 tickets include one free drink. Includes live and silent auction, food from Cristaudo's, and live music. Contact 618-529-5431 or yoursciencecenter@gmail.com if you have items or services to donate for auctions or want to volunteer.

TUESDAY 26 Christmas Concert. Shawnee Community College’s Education Center. 7 PM. Fantasy of Lights Parade. Downwotn West Frankfort. Contact 618-923-0797.

WEDNESDAY 27

Holiday Open House. Southern Illinois Art & Artisans Center, 14967 Gun Creek Trail, Whittington. THROUGH DEC. 1 for a daily artisan demonstration and refreshments. Learn about found object jewelry, oil painting, and pastels. The artisans shop features the work of more than 850 Illinois artisans and staff can help you find just the right holiday gift. Call 618-629-2220.

THURSDAY 28: THANKSGIVING DAY.

Multi-day Events/Activities

FRIDAY 29

Fall Art Classes. Cedarhurst Center for the Arts, 2600 Richview Road, Mt. Vernon. THROUGH DEC. 13. Ages 18 months to adult. Call 618-242-1236.

Beaded Jewelry Demonstration by Nancy Pace. Southern Illinois Art & Artisans Center, 14967 Gun Creek Trail, Whittington. 10 AM. Pace is a folk artist who uses wire and stones like a paintbrush on canvas to create beautiful pieces of jewelry from found objects. Call 618-629-2220. Holiday Open House. Southern Illinois Art & Artisans Center, 14967 Gun Creek Trail, Whittington. Drop in all weekend for a daily artisan demonstration and refreshments. Learn about found object jewelry, oil painting, and pastels. The artisans shop features the work of more than 850 Illinois artisans and staff can help you find just the right holiday gift. Call 618-629-2220.

SATURDAY 30 3rd Annual Saline Co. 5K/10K Reindeer Run. Harrisburg Middle School, 312 Bulldog Blvd, Harrisburg. Registration at 8 AM; costume judging at 8:30 AM; 10K begins at 9 AM; 5K walk/run begins at 9:30 AM. $20 before Nov. 11 and $25 after. Get in the holiday spirit and run off some of those holiday treats. Come ready to race dressed in the spirit of the holiday season for our costume contest with Santa Claus starting the race. Contact Lori Cox at lori.cox@sic.edu or call 618-252-4192.

Guided trail rides. Giant City State Park. Departs 9 AM, 10:30 AM, 12:30 PM, 2 PM, 3:30 PM, 5 PM. Hour ride - $45/person; half-hour ride - $30/person. For more info or to register, contact 618-529-4110 or GiantCityStables.com.

Ongoing Events & Notices Lego Club. Marion Carnegie Library, Children’s Department. MONTHLY ON THE

FIRST MONDAY, 6 – 7:30 PM. Ages 6-12. Call (618) 993-5935. Brown Bag and Book Discussion Group. Carbondale Public Library, 405 W. Main St., CARBONDALE. WEEKLY ON MONDAYS, NOON – 1 PM. Just bring a lunch and one book to discuss. Call Mary Stoner at 618-457-0354 ext. 314. Senior Citizens Program. Carbondale Public Library, 405 W. Main St. FIRST TUESDAY OF EACH MONTH, 9:30 – 10:30 AM. Doughnuts and coffee are provided. Each month has a different theme. Contact Mary Stoner at 618-457-0354.

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EVENTS CALENDAR

computer, cell phone or tablet; see how to use your email or Facebook; assistance with downloading ebooks and audiobooks; practice on our computers or bring your own. Contact wschoof@carbondale.lib.il.us.

Tween Crafts. Marion Carnegie Library, Children’s Department. WEEKLY ON TUESDAY, 3:30 – 6 PM. Ages 8-12. Call (618) 993-5935.

Shawnee Quilters Guild Work Days. Jackson Count Extension Center, Murphysboro. FIRST FRIDAYS OF EACH MONTH SEPTEMBER – MAY. 10 AM Bring lunch. $20 for annual dues. Contact Gail Braeutigam at 618-684-3950.

Games Group. Marion Carnegie Library, Teen Department. WEEKLY ON TUESDAY, 4 – 7:30 PM. Games include cheese, checkers, and more. Open to teens of all skill levels. Call (618) 993-5935. National Alliance on Mental Illness educational and sharing-and-caring meetings. Our Savior Lutheran Church, 700 S. Illinois Ave., Carbondale. FIRST TUESDAY OF EVERY MONTH. 7 PM. Contact 800-346-4572, 217-522-1403, jacksoncounty.nami.org or il.nami.org. Story Hour. Marion Carnegie Library, Event Center. WEEKLY ON WEDNESDAY, 10 11 AM. Stories, snacks and activities for pre-school age children. Call 618-993-5935. Shawnee Quilters Guild Work Days. Marion Carnegie Library. FIRST THURSDAYS OF EACH MONTH. 9 AM. Bring lunch. $20 for annual dues. Contact Gail Braeutigam at 618-684-3950. Shawnee Quilters Monthly Meetings. First Baptist Church, 406 S. Division St., Carterville. THIRD THURSDAYS OF EACH MONTH. Pre-program begins at 10 AM; refreshments at noon; meeting and program at 12:30 PM. $20 annual dues. Contact Gail Braeutigam at 618-684-3950.

Video Game Hour. Carbondale Public Library, 405 W. Main St., Carbondale. 3:304:30 PM FRIDAYS. Free. For youth 5th grade and older. Includes video games and popcorn. Contact 618-457-0354. Family Swim. LIFE Center pool, 2500 W Sunset Drive, Carbondale. WEEKLY ON FRIDAY EVENINGS. $5 per family up to four people; additional people $1 each. An adult family member must accompany youth; siblings must be at least 21 to qualify as an adult. Call 618-549-4222. Free monthly electronic/computer recycling. America’s Central Port (Formerly Commissary Parking Lot), Seventh and A streets, Granite City. 10 AM SECOND SATURDAY OF EACH MONTH FEBRUARY – NOVEMBER. Call 314-382-1650 or www.witsinc.org. Teen Games. Marion Carnegie Library, McCoskey Room. WEEKLY ON SATURDAY, 1 – 4:30 PM. Yu-Gi-Oh cards, Super Smash Brothers Brawl, and other games. Ages 12-19. Call 618-993-5935. Anime Club. Marion Carnegie Library, 206 S. Market St., Marion. SECOND AND FOURTH SATURDAYS OF THE MONTH. 1 – 4:30 PM. Open to young adults. Call

Story Hour. Marion Carnegie Library, Event Center. WEEKLY ON WEDNESDAY, 10 11 AM. Stories, snacks and activities for pre-school age children. Call (618) 993-5935.

618-993-5935.

Open Computer Help. Carbondale Public Library, 405 W. Main St., Carbondale. 9 AM – 2 PM. Open to public. Get help with technology issues, including how to use your

Teen Games. Marion Carnegie Library, McCoskey Room. WEEKLY ON SATURDAY, 1 – 4:30 PM. Yu-Gi-Oh cards, Super Smash Brothers Brawl, and other games. Ages 1219. Call (618) 993-5935.

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Marion Main Street Cruise In. Marion Tower Square. 5 – 9 PM. EVERY FOURTH SATURDAY THROUGH SEPTEMBER. Prizes, 50/50 raffle, entertainment, food. Zumba & Zumba Toning Classes-Tishaunda Fitness Contact 618-638-4180 for more information or www.tishaunda618.zumba.com. $5 per class or $30 for a VIP pass – unlimited Zumba for a month First Time Free! At 718 Market Square Street in Metropolis. SATURDAYS 10:30-12 and MONDAYS AND THURSDAYS at 6-7:30 p.m.

Educational The Science Center of Southern Illinois, University Mall, 1237 E. Main., Sp 1048, Carbondale. Admission $4/person; infants 2 and younger free. Senior citizen and military discounts available. Annual family memberships ($65) includes admission for up to eight family members, various discounts, free admission to more than 300 museums in the Association of Science and Technology Centers. Closed MondayTuesday; 11 AM – 5 PM Wednesday-Thursday; 11 AM – 6PM Friday-Saturday; Noon – 5 PM Sunday. Contact si.sciencecenter@gmail.com, 618-529-5431 or www.yoursciencecenter.com. S.I. Poets is the Southern Chapter of the Illinois State Poetry Society. Benefit from the experience and encouragement of other poets; get feedback at bimonthly critique sessions the SECOND SUNDAYS OF JANUARY, MARCH, MAY, JULY, SEPTEMBER AND NOVEMBER; poetry readings, exhibits, informational gatherings, and special events; submit work for publication in the annual chapter anthology; contest opportunities; membership includes the local chapter, Illinois State Poetry Society, National Federation of State Poetry Societies for $20 annually. Contact s.i.poets@gmail.com or www.illinoispoets.com. Sylvan Learning Center, 402 E. Plaza Drive, #3, Carterville. 618-985-4519.

Exhibits Jefferson County Historical Village and Museum, 1411 North 27th St., Mt. Vernon. 10 AM – 4 PM SATURDAYS and 1 – 4 PM SUNDAYS. Free. Authentic log cabins and museum containing Jefferson County memorabilia. Call 618-246-0033. Union County Museum, 117 S. Appleknocker St., Cobden. 1-5 PM SATURDAYS and SUNDAYS. Free. Operated by the Union County Historical & Genealogy Society. Call 618-893-2865. Sound and Vision: Monumental Rock & Roll Photography. Cedarhurst Center for the Arts’ Main Gallery, 2600 Richview Road, Mt. Vernon. THROUGH DEC. 31. $5 for non-members; member free. Iconic photographs of many of the most notable musicians, songwriters, and performers of the last half of the 20th century will be part of Cedarhurst’s 40th anniversary. The 40 large-scale photographs reflect the way we look at and remember the musical artists who created rock and roll. Call 618-242-1236. Celebrating 40 Years at Cedarhurst. Cedarhurst Center for the Arts, 2600 Richview Road, Mt. Vernon. THROUGH DEC. 31. Free. In conjunction with Cedarhurst's 40th anniversary celebration, the corridor gallery exhibition is a tribute to the museum's history. Artifacts that represent milestones in Cedarhurst history will be displayed alongside photos and a timeline that details the museum's early years and the transformation into today's premier cultural institution in southern Illinois. Call 618-242-1236.

Gallery Exhibition: Contrasting Landscapes. Southern Illinois Art & Artisans Center, 14967 Gun Creek Trail, Whittington. THROUGH FEB. 14. Exhibit will feature colorful ceramic sculptures by Annelies Heijnen, acrylic paintings by Karen Diss-Braden, wood turnings by Michael Kuehl and blown glass by Patrick Frost and Matthew Urban. Call 618-629-2220.

Farmers’ Markets Carbondale Community Farmers Market, Carbondale Community High School, 1301 E. Walnut St. Open year around from 9 AM – 1 PM Saturdays and moves indoors starting NOV. 9. Features produce grown using sustainable or organic growing practices, products from conventional farms, local crafts, free children's activities and a wide variety of educational demonstrations and classes. For more information, call the market manager Angie Kuehl at 618.340.2160 or visit www.facebook.com/ pages/Carbondale-Community-Farmers-Market. Farmers' Market of Carbondale, Westtown Mall, 2102 W. Main St., Carbondale, Ill. OPEN THROUGH NOV. 30 FROM 8 AM – NOON SATURDAYS. Vendors sell locally grown vegetables and fruits in season, herbs, annual and perennial plants, grass-fed beef, baked goods, cut flowers, cheese, coffee, canned goods and locally made crafts. Local music and special events throughout the season. Contact Ann Stahlheber at 618-833-2769 or stalhbr@yahoo.com. Vienna Farmers’ Market. Vienna City Park. OPEN WEDNESDAYS AND SATURDAYS 7 AM – noon.

Religious Services & Meetings:

Aldersgate United Methodist Church

1201 N. Fair St., Marion -618-997-6065 • www.marionaldersgate.org SUNDAYS – 8:30 AM Blended Worship Service; 9:30 AM Sunday School for all ages; 10:30 AM Contemporary Worship Service. Nursery is provided during both worship services for kids up to 3 years old. WEDNESDAYS – ACTION (All Church Things in One Night) begins with a meal at 5:45 PM and is followed by Adult Small Group Studies; Friendship Club (through 3rd Grade); CLICK (4th and 5th Grades); Sixth Grade Connection; and Wednesday Night Life (7th-12th Grades).

Christ Community Church 473 W. Harrison Road, Murphysboro – 618-684-359 • ccc-si.com SUNDAYS – 10 AM Worship

Community Christian Church 1150 Country Club Road, Metropolis – 618-524-8694 • www.cccmetropolis.com SUNDAYS – 9 AM Sunday School; 10 AM Worship; 6 PM Worship WEDNESDAYS – 6 PM Bible Study

Cornerstone Church 9835 Old Bainbridge, Marion – 618-997-7884 • cornerstonesi.org SATURDAYS – 5 PM Worship SUNDAYS – 9 AM and 10:45 AM Worship

Cornerstone Church Shrode Photography Competition and Exhibition. Cedarhurst Center for the Arts, 2600 Richview Road, Mt. Vernon. THROUGH DEC. 31. The annual juried competition is open to all artists 18 years of age and older living in southern Illinois, south of Interstate 70, including Charleston, Ill. Photography artists compete to win cash prizes. Call 618-242-1236. Michelle Stitzlein. Cedarhurst Center for the Arts, 2600 Richview Road, Mt. Vernon. THROUGH DEC. 31. Free. Michelle Stitzlein has been creating sculpture with recycled materials as a full-time artist since 2000 in her studio in Baltimore, Ohio. Her work has been shown in art and craft museums nationally. She has visited more than 50 elementary schools and organizations as an artist-in-residence and continues to share her passion for creating with humble materials in her books, workshops, presentations, and exhibitions. Call 618-242-1236.

17466 Route 37, Johnston City - 618-997-7884 • cornerstonesi.org SUNDAYS – 10 AM Worship

Grace United Methodist Church 220 N. Tower Road, Carbondale – 618-457-8785 • www.gumc.net SUNDAYS – 9 AM Contemporary Worship; 10:10 AM Sunday School; 11:15 AM Traditional Worship. Nursery available at both services and Sunday school.

Hope Church 7373 Old Highway 13, Carbondale – 618-521-6271 www.hopechurchcarbondale.com SUNDAYS – 9:30 AM Adult Bible Study; 9:30 AM Children’s Sunday School; 10:30 AM Worship Service

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EVENTS CALENDAR Elm Street Southern Baptist Church 1907 Elm St., Murphysboro – 618-687-1043 • www.elmstreetchurch.org SUNDAYS – 9:15 AM Sunday School; 10:30 AM Service; 6 PM Service WEDNESDAYS – 7 PM Service

First Baptist Church of Marion 401 West Union St., Marion – 618-997-9386 • www.fbmarion.org SUNDAYS – 10 AM Worship; 6 PM Worship WEDNESDAYS – 6 PM Worship

First Baptist Church 401 N. 15th St., Murphysboro – 618-687-1769 • www.fbcmurphy.org SUNDAYS – 8:15 AM Fellowship with coffee and doughnuts; 9AM Life Groups/Sunday School; 10 AM Worship WEDNESDAYS – 5 PM Dinner; 6 PM Youth Group; 6 PM Adult Bible Study

First Christian Church 306 W. Monroe St., Carbondale – 618-457-6817 • fcc-carbondale.org SUNDAYS – 10:30 AM Worship with Children’s Church and Nursery provided

First Church of God 1409 Broeking Rd., Marion -618-993-6369 • www.marionfcog.org SUNDAYS – 9:00 AM Sunday School; 10 AM Worship; 6PM Enrichment Hour WEDNESDAY – 6:30 Worship

First Presbyterian Church 310 S. University Ave., Carbondale – 618-549-2148 • www.firstprescdale.org

SUNDAYS – 9:30

AM Worship; 10:30 Children’s Christian Enrichment

Fellowship; 10:45-11:45

Adult &

First United 214 W Main St., Carbondale – 618-457-2416 • www.fumc-cdale.org SUNDAYS – Early Service: 8:15-9:15 AM Early Service; 9:30-10:30 AM Sunday School for all ages; 10:45-11:45 AM Late Service with Children's Church (4 years old - Grade 6)

Good Shepherd Lutheran Church 1801 Westminster Drive, Marion – 618-993-3649 • gslcmarion.com SUNDAYS - 7:45 AM service; 10:15 AM service with staffed nursery available for children through age 3

Lighthouse Assembly of God 670 Airport Road, Metropolis – 618-524-2256 • lighthouseag.org SUNDAYS – 9:30 AM Christian Education; 10:30 AM Morning Worship; 5:15 PM Corporate Prayer; 6 PM Evening Worship WEDNESDAYS – 6:15 PM Corporate Prayer; 7 PM Worship

Marion Church of Christ 1705 E DeYoung St., Marion - 618-993-5534 • www.marionchurchofchrist.com SUNDAYS – 9:30 AM Bible study; 10:30 AM Worship; 6 PM Worship WEDNESDAYS – 7 PM Bible study

Marion First United Methodist Church 208 W. Main St., Marion - 618-993-5421 • www.marionfirst.org SUNDAYS – 8:30 AM Informal Worship; 9 AM Coffee Spot Fellowship; 9:30 AM Sunday School; 10:30 AM Traditional Worship

Mt. Horeb Church 906 Pearl St., Metropolis • 618-524-3018 • www.mthorebexperience.org SUNDAYS – 9AM Sunday School; 10 AM Worship; 10 AM Children’s Church (1-9 years old); 5:30 PM Mt. HYPE (Youth Group for 6-12th grades) WEDNESDAYS – 5:30 PM Fellowship Meal; 6:30 Bible Study THURSDAYS – 9 AM Zumba (Free)

Murphysboro United Methodist Church 1500 Pine St., Murphysboro – 618-687-2317 • www.murphysboroumc.com SUNDAYS – 9 AM Service with children dismissed about half way through for Children’s Church; 10:10 AM Sunday School for all ages; Communion Sunday is the FIRST SUNDAY OF EVERY MONTH

Neighborhood Bible Fellowship 1218 W. Freeman St., Carbondalee – 618-549-7649 neighborhoodbiblefellowship.org SUNDAYS – 10 AM Breaking of Bread Service; Service/Children's Sunday School

Teaching

New Hope Church of God 2201 W. Main St., Marion – 618-993-3363 • www.newhopechurchmarion.or SUNDAYS – 9:30 AM Sunday School; 10:30 AM Worship and children are dismissed for Children’s Church WEDNESDAYS – 6 PM Fellowship with coffee, drinks and desserts: 6:30-7:15 PM Whiz Kidz (ages 4-11); 6:30-7:15 PM Teen Bible Study (ages 12-19); 6:30-7:15 PM Adult Bible Study; 7:20-8 PM Adult Choir Practice

Ohio Valley Baptist Church 714 Filmore St., Metropolis – 618-638-0901 • www.ohiovalleybaptist.org SUNDAYS – 10 AM SUNDAY SCHOOL; 11 AM Worship; 6 PM Worship WEDNESDAYS – 7 PM Worship

St. Joseph Catholic Church 600 N. Russell St., Marion - 618-993-3194 • www.stjosephmarion.org

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St. Rose of Lima Catholic Church

Legal Self-Help Center, Carbondale Public Library, 405 W. Main St., Carbondale. Hours 9 AM – 9 PM Monday-Thursday; 9 AM – 6 PM Friday-Saturday; 1-6 PM Sunday. Free center focuses on simple divorces, child support/child visitation, domestic violence orders of protection, landlord/tenant matters, links to free legal resources. Charges associated with printing some documents. Contact Jackson.illinoislegalaid.org.

315 E. Third St., Metropolis – 618-524-9006 • strosemetropolis.com SUNDAYS – 8:30 AM Mass MONDAY-FRIDAY 8 AM Mass

Marion Ministerial Alliance, 103 East Calvert, Marion – 618-993-8419. Open 8:30-11:30 AM TUESDAYS.

SATURDAYS – 5 PM Mass SUNDAYS – 8 AM Mass; 11 AM Mass MONDAYS-THURSDAYS – 7:45 AM Morning Prayer; 8 AM Mass FRIDAYS – 11:45 PM Midday Prayer; 12:10 PM Mass

University Baptist Church

700 S Oakland Ave., Carbondale – 618-457-0323 • www.ubaptist.org SUNDAYS – 9 AM Coffee Fellowship and Libraryl 9:30 AM Classes; 10:45 Worship WEDNESDAYS – 9:30 AM Morning Bible Study; 7 AM Mid-Week Service

Murphysboro Food Pantry, 906 N. 14th St., Murphysboro – 618-684-8258 AM

The View Church 1201 S. Giant City Road, Carbondale – 618-351-0841 • www.theviewchurch.com SUNDAYS – 10:20 AM Contemporary Worship Service

Vine Church 445 S. Wall St., Carbondale – 618-351-8463 • www.vinechurch.net SUNDAYS – 9 AM, 11 AM, 5:30 PM Worship Services

Walnut Street Baptist Church 218 W. Walnut St., Carbondale – 618-457-0479 • www.walnut-street.org SUNDAYS – 9 AM Sunday School; 10:15 AM Morning Worship; 12:30 PM Korean Worship; 6 PM Evening Worship WEDNESDAYS – 5:45 PM Dinner by Reservation; 6:30 PM Adult Bible Study; 6:30 PM Youth Bible Study; 6:30 PM Children in Action (Grades 1-6); 6:30 PM Mission Friends (4-5 year olds); 7:15 PM Choir Rehearsal

Salvation Army, 906 Tower Square, Marion – 800-993-5854. Open 9-11

TUESDAYS-THURSDAYS. Shepherd’s Closet, 704 West Boyton, Marion – 618-993-8694 Southern Illinois BirthNetwork – 618-559-5948. Promotes mother-friendly maternity care throughout Southern Illinois and provides a great community for moms to connect and support each other throughout pregnancy, birth, postpartum, and motherhood. Holds regular meetings, playdates, film screenings, and special events throughout the year. Contact www.facebook.com/groups/sibirthnetwork or Amanda Wingerter at amandawingerter@gmail.com. The Women’s Center, 610 South Thompson St., Carbondale – 800-334-2094. Helps sexual assault and domestic violence survivors by providing a 24-hour crisis hotline intervention (618-529-2324), emergency shelter, food, supplies and transportation; individual and group support, counseling information, referrals, education; case management, legal, medical, and personal advocacy. All services are free confidential. http://thewomensctr.org/. v

Service Organizations Cambria Food Pantry, 302 S. Richart, Cambria – 618-985-6409. Open 8 AM-noon

THIRD TUESDAY OF EACH MONTH. Community United Pantry, 130 West Illinois, Carterville – 618-985-3171. Open 9 AM-noon TUESDAYS AND FRIDAYS. Friends of Giant City is a not-for-profit group that supports Giant City State Park and is funded by membership donations. Annual dues begin at $5for students and seniors and go up to $100 for organizations. Membership includes newsletters, volunteer activities, annual meeting and programs, education programs. Contact friendsofgiantcity@gmail.com or www.giantcity.org. Good Samaritan Food Pantry, 700 S. Oakland, Carbondale – 618-457-0323. Open 9-11 AM MONDAYS AND FRIDAYS. Grace Baptist Church, 202 E. Oak, West Frankfort – 618-932-2140. Open 9-11 AM

THIRD SATURDAY OF EACH MONTH. Hospice of Southern Illinois Inc. – 305 S. Illinois St., Belleville. 618-235-1703; 7325 Marine Road, Edwardsville. 618-659-7900; 204 Halfway Road, Marion. 618997-3030. Care for patients and families facing terminal illnesses includes specialized pain and symptom management, regularly scheduled visits by Hospice team, on-call support available 24 hours a day, emotional and spiritual support, assistance with financial questions, and volunteer services. Keep Carbondale Beautiful’s Adopt-A-Spot Program, Carbondale. Individuals or groups commit to clean litter from their designated area at least once a month while Keep Carbondale Beautiful provides trash bags, annual Certificate of Appreciation, and recognition sign posted in area. Contact Valerie Rasp at keepcb@midwest.net or 618-525-5525.

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by: Tammy Samples

THANKFULNESS

Five Ways to Share Your Blessings during Thanksgiving

uring November, most of us take time to think about how blessed we have been during the past year. Most of us have a roof over our heads, income to pay our bills and feed our families, and loved ones to spend time with. Unfortunately there are many who are not so fortunate and Thanksgiving often presents us with opportunities to give back, or ‘pay it forward’. We can make donations of goods, money, or time in order to share some blessings with other families and individuals in our area who are having a hard time. If you are looking for an opportunity to share your blessings, check out these suggestions that are close to home.

Donate food for Salvation Army baskets The Salvation Army, located on the Tower Square in Marion, will be giving away baskets of food just before Thanksgiving and then again right before Christmas. Anyone who is in need can sign up to receive a basket just contact the Salvation Army at (618) 993-5854 or visit their office. Salvation Army representative Amanda Harshman explained that applications for Thanksgiving food baskets will be accepted from November 1 until November 15, on Mondays and Fridays only from 9 a.m. until noon. The food baskets include everything needed for a traditional holiday

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meal; mashed potatoes, stuffing, a cake mix, vegetables, fruit, cranberries, and a voucher for a turkey (at Thanksgiving) or a ham (at Christmas). The Salvation Army places barrels at various locations throughout Williamson County in order to collect donations of food items from the public. You can also drop off donations at the Salvation Army office in Marion.

Donate gifts for Salvation Army Angel Tree kids Another way to help others through the Salvation Army is to participate in the Angel Tree program. Harshman told me that the Angel Tree Christmas tree will be on display at the Illinois Star Centre Mall in Marion, starting on November 15. Registration to receive gifts through the Angel Tree program is November 5th through the 21st at the Salvation Army office. Angel Tree signups are held between those dates on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays only, between 9 a.m. and noon, and between 1 and 4 p.m. You should call the Salvation Army first to find out exactly what information you need to bring with you. Angel Tree is for children 12 and under who live in Williamson and Johnson Counties. If you want to sponsor an Angel Tree child, go to the Christmas tree on display in the mall and pick a paper ornament off of the tree. Each ornament will specify a child (boy or girl) with their clothing sizes and a few "wish list" toy items. Harshman said that last year, there were about 500 children who received gifts through the Angel Tree program. Not all ornaments are picked up by a member of the public and for those without a sponsor the Salvation Army takes care of the gifts. "We actually go out and purchase toys for those children so that all the families who sign up will get toys for their children," Harshman said. "Anybody that signs up, as long as they're eligible, will receive toys." The collection dates this year are from November 15 through December 13. Choose an ornament from the tree after November 15, and then return the unwrapped items to the mall or the Salvation Army office before December 13. For more information on signing up your children for Angel Tree, or if you would like to know more about how you can help provides gifts for kids this Christmas, give the Salvation Army a call at (618) 993-5854.

Help out the Marion Ministerial Alliance Local area churches provide an outpouring of volunteers to

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the Marion Ministerial Alliance through serving meals at the soup kitchen, but the director, JR Russell, explained that there are some specific needs for volunteers right now. "We really need help with our furniture giveaway," Russell said. He explained that this particular volunteer job doesn't require a large time investment. Just two hours, once every three weeks is required to help people receive furniture donations.

baby clothes, maternity clothes, baby items and more for families in need. For more information, contact Pregnancy Matters at 1(888) 303-8859. Remember that volunteering is a great way to show children how fortunate they are and how a little kindness, thought and time can make a huge difference in the lives of a person in need. v

Coming up, the Ministerial Alliance also needs several people to help with the Boy Scout food drive on Saturday, November 16 from 11 a.m. until 2 p.m. If you are available and can help sort the food donations, your help would be greatly appreciated. In December, the Ministerial Alliance will need volunteers to deliver Christmas food baskets on Saturday, December 7 from 8:30 until 10 a.m. Volunteers will take the food baskets and deliver them to the families who need them. All of these volunteer opportunities would be great to do with your family. Interested? Give Director Russell a call at (618) 993-8419 to find out more and get signed up to help.

Volunteer with the Lighthouse Shelter The Lighthouse Shelter located in Marion is located at 1101 North Madison, (behind Dairy Queen on DeYoung Street). They really welcome volunteers. They can use help with clerical work, housekeeping, mentoring and tutoring children, meal preparation and cleanup. Volunteers help in so many ways at the Lighthouse Shelter which offers assistance to homeless individuals and families in need of a little extra help to get on their feet, and get into permanent housing. To find out more about specific volunteer needs right now, contact the Lighthouse Shelter at (618) 993-8180.

Volunteer with Pregnancy Matters Pregnancy Matters, (formerly Shawnee Crisis Pregnancy Centers), has offices in Carbondale, Marion, Anna, and Pinckneyville. They offer a great opportunity to donate a few hours of your time to help moms and babies in need. If you can't volunteer, then donate. Monetary donations are always needed as well as donations of good, used or new, baby clothes and baby items, formula, equipment etc. If you don't have baby clothes and equipment from your own children to donate, browse around local thrift stores for those items. The families who receive these donations truly appreciate all the help they can get. Pregnancy Matters offers free

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COMMUNITY NEWS

By: Tammy Samples

Fighting Food Insecurity in Southern Illinois Editor’s Notes: While most of us are tucking into our Thanksgiving dinner this a year, there are parents and children who will be visiting a free feeding program or a community kitchen. They simply don’t have enough money in their budgets to feed their family a fancy turkey dinner. Fortunately, the Little Egypt Area has several programs to help with the rising problem of food insecurity in our area. Read on to see how you can help this Thanksgiving.

rett and Mary are finding times very hard right now. The parents of four are struggling to keep things together in today's economy. Jeff has a steady job, but his take home pay doesn't go as far as it should. Mary

[ ] In 2012, 49 million Americans were living in food insecure households. That translates to 17.6 million households and 14.5 percent of U.S. households.

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was at home raising their children, but she’s now decided to look for a job to help pay the bills because, no matter what they did, there was never quite enough. Mary has been out of the workforce for a few years and so far, none of the jobs she has applied to have called her in for an interview. She wonders if perhaps it's because so many other people with more recent work experience are applying for the same jobs? In the meantime mary makes and sells a few small craft items, but that brings in very little. Brett does odd jobs on the side in addition to his full-time job, but that also brings in just a little extra. The family is on a tight budget with few luxuries or extras. The kids wear clothing from thrift stores or yard sales and

hand-me-downs from other family members. Mary doesn't buy new clothing for herself and fortunately Jeff wears a uniform to work, so he doesn't need anything new. Mary clips coupons but finds that often generic foods and store brand items are actually cheaper than the name brand with a coupon. Sometimes Mary skips meals in order to ensure there is enough food for her family. The family receives food assistance (food stamps) through the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), but it doesn’t cover the growing family food needs. What makes it harder is that with each grocery shopping trip, Mary has noticed that items are a few cents higher. Those pennies add up. Mary feels embarrassed when people see her use her food stamp card. Even though no one ever says anything to her, she feels their judgment and resentment because she is receiving assistance from the government. Mary hears the comments from others about how food stamp recipients "are just lazy" and "should just go out and get a job." She would like to find a job, but no one has given her a chance yet. She feels even more embarrassed when she has to make trips to the local food pantry for extra food. Mary and Brett do not like asking for help, but they have no choice.

What is food insecurity? While Brett and Mary are a fictional family, the scenario is far from made up. This is a picture of the working poor in the United States. According to the USDA food insecurity is defined as “consistent access to adequate food is limited by a lack of money and other resources at times during the year.” According to the organization Feeding America, the reality in our country is that 1 in 6 people are dealing with food insecurity. In addition, 1 in every 5 children lives in households where it is a struggle to keep enough food on the table.

Take a look at the statistics In 2012, fifteen percent of the U.S. population (46.5 million people) lived in poverty. The 2012 poverty level for a family of four is an income of less than $23,050 (according to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services). For our fictional family, Brett and Mary with a household of six, the poverty level is $30,970. That translates to an hourly wage (before taxes) of $14.89. If Brett makes less than that per hour, then after taxes, insurance and other deductions are taken out, the family is far below the poverty level. Here’s some more startling statistics: In 2012, 49 million Americans were living in food insecure households. That translates to 17.6 million households and 14.5 percent of U.S. households. Households with children, households

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with single mothers as the head and households of single men had higher than national food insure rates and 8.4 percent of U.S. seniors (over age 60) were food insecure. Feeding their families seems to be one of the more difficult tasks folks are coming up against as jobs are lost or put on hold, benefit payments decrease, and families cinch their belts up a little tighter. As the cooler months begin, it can be even harder as cooler temperatures usually mean that more calories are necessary and people need to eat a little more. Local food pantries and help missions and ministries in southern Illinois are seeing an increase in individuals and families needing help, but as resources are stretched thin, it becomes a more daunting task to meet those needs. According to The Center on Budget and Policy Priorities, November 2013 will see a drop in Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits across the country. While the drop in benefits, which will range from $11 per month for one person to $36 for a family of four, may seem minimal for families and individuals who are tight budgets this cut may be disastrous.

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The Promise Mission In southern Illinois, individuals and families who find it hard to buy food and meet other needs may need to rely upon local charities for a little assistance. In Marion, The Promise Mission is making a difference in one corner of the world. The Promise Mission is not a food pantry, but even so, founders David and Peggy Maragni believe that they have been led by God to provide food to families and individuals who come to them for help. The Promise Mission helps homeless people in the Marion area and they are also helping families who need a little extra help. The number of families coming to the mission has increased in recent months. "[The increase is] oh unbelievable...especially the homeless. We are helping about 200 families, as well as our homeless," Peggy Maragni explained. On a daily basis, the Maragnis offer breakfast foods (doughnuts, cereal) and sandwiches to homeless people, and they offer assistance to others. The Mission tries to assess the needs of those coming to them for assistance and then find the help they need: It could be support with trying to find a job, which

for some people means help getting an ID or getting a copy of a birth certificate.

What can local people and churches do to help The Promise Mission? Peggy said she would love to see some of the churches in Marion open their doors so the homeless can have a place to take a hot shower or have a warm place to sleep. During November, they are collecting coats and helping to provide Christmas gifts for kids. With the weather turning colder, they are also collecting blankets for the homeless and they always need donations of lunch meat, cheese, bread, toilet paper and toiletries, and food and snacks that homeless people can easily carry with them. The Promise Mission is located on West Main Street in Marion, next to Family Dollar. They are open Monday through Friday 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. and they hold Bible studies on Thursdays and Sundays from 6 to 8 p.m. Check out the Mission's website at www.thepromisemission.com.

help individuals and families on tight budgets. The money made from the thrift store goes toward funding the food pantry, which supplies much more than food. According to Director Cheri Litton, the last four months has brought an increase in people needing help. The JC Manna Mission will provide food and a number of personal items (toiletries, hygiene and other items) to folks who live within the Johnston City School District. The thrift store is located at 306 East Broadway and the food pantry is right next door. The food pantry is open on Wednesdays from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. and the thrift store is open Monday, and Wednesday from 9:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. and also the first Saturday of each month from 9:30 to 4. Every year, the Manna Mission also organizes an "Angel Tree" for kids in the Johnston City School District. To get more information about Angel Tree or anything else the JC Manna Mission does, call (618)983-6262.

Do you have food or time to share? The JC Manna Mission In Johnston City, the JC Manna Mission operates a thrift store and a food pantry to help with the needs of local people in. The thrift store offers used goods at very low prices to

If you and your family are not struggling to keep food on the table and want to help those who are, there are plenty of things you can do.

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Volunteer Use your free time to help with local organizations such as soup kitchens, food pantries, homeless shelters and the like. There are lots of ways to assist and make a difference and organizations have need for people to do many things. Along with preparing and serving food you may be able to help by cleaning buildings, grounds maintenance, sorting donations, minor building maintenance, or providing transportation. Some organizations, such as Williamson County Programs on Aging, need more hands-on help. WCPA makes use of volunteers who deliver meals to homebound elderly. For information about helping, contact WCPA at (618) 988-1585 or (618) 942-6993.

Donate If you have extra food or extra money in your budget, consider donating your excess to a local food pantry. Food pantries all over the region have seen their shelves become more and more bare as donations drop, and the number of people asking for help increases. The Shepherd's Closet on North Court Street in Marion operates a thrift store and food pantry. In November, the Shepherd's Closet will be giving

40 â&#x20AC;˘ November2013 www.littleegyptfamilymag.com

away food on November 5, 14, 19 and 26 from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Recipients can only receive food one time per month. For more information on making a donation of food items to The Shepherd's Closet, call them at (618) 993-8694.

Raise Awareness Raising awareness about the needs in our region is an important area of volunteer work. Too often, people don't know what needs are out there, don't know what services are available, don't know how to help or how to get help. Many organizations and ministries have Facebook pages and would love for members of the public to help spread the word. Share links and information on your own Facebook page as well as distributing leaflets and flyers at locations around your town. To find a food pantry or a soup kitchen that offers free meals, check out the website www.illinoisfoodbanks.org or stop in at your local Department of Human Services (formerly Public Aid) office for a list. With Thanksgiving around the corner, be thankful for the blessings you have and do what you can to share those blessings. Help put away hunger in southern Illinois! v

Barkley Regional Airport . .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Page 19

ADVERTISERS INDEX

www.BarkleyRegional.com Bliss Body Works . . . . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Page 32

Parkview Nursing and Rehabiltation . . . . Page 21

www.facebook.com/blissbodyworks

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Dillards . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Page 13

Robin’s Tree . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Page 24

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Schmidt Farms . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Page 11

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Sixth and Vintage . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Page 32

Dress It Up . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Page 32

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Extreme Entertainment . . . .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Page 23

Symphony Supply . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Page 13

www.yourinflatableparty.com

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Jaded Layne Boutique. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Page 35

The Painted Lady . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Page 16

www.facebook.com/jaded-layne-boutique

The Skin Shop . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Page 32

Jordans Market. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Page 40

www.facebook.com/theskinshop

Hooked on Science . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Page 23

Total Rejuvenation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Page 15

www.hookedonscience.com

www.totalrejuvenationofpaducah.com

Leaps and Bounds . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Page 5

White Lilli Boutique . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Page 32

facebook.com/leapsandboundsconsignment

www.facebook.com/whitelilliboutique

Lindsey Wilson College . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Page 31

Yaya’s Island . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Page 39

www.lindsey.edu

www.havefunatyayas.com

Little Egypt Family Magazine . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Page 26 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Page 30 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Page 34 www.littleegyptfamilymag.com Lourdes Hospice. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Page 3 www.elourdes.com Magical Twists. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Page 23 www.magicaltwists.com Marion Civic Center . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Page 43 www.marionccc.com Marion Eye Center . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Page 44 www.marioneye.com Market House Theater. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Page 13 www.mhtplay.com Michelle Crouch Photography. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Page 28 Midwest Neurosurgeons . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Page 2 www.midwestneurosurgeons.com Nola’s Boutique . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Page 19 www.nolasofpaducah.com Paducah Aikido . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Page 41 www.aikipanda.com Paducah Symphony Orchestra . . . . . . . . . . Page 37 www.paducahsymphony.org

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