Beacon News :: Lifestyles ::

Plainfield parents see daughter soar on world charts

By DENISE M. BARAN-UNLAND For Sun-Times Media — Sun, 8 Nov 2009 00:01 CST

Kosovo pop star Genta Ismajli has amassed more than 25 million views on You Tube, has more than 26,000 fans on her Facebook page and has performed 300-plus concerts around the globe. The 25-year-old recently visited her family in Plainfield before meeting with New York producers.

Astro-graph

Sun, 8 Nov 2009 04:00 CST

Today's birthday: Even if early indications signal otherwise, some favorable adjustments are likely to be made in the year ahead that will put you on the path to bigger and better beginnings. They will bring the happiness you're seeking.

Aurora Kiwanis appoints new officers

From Staff Reports — Sun, 8 Nov 2009 00:01 CST

The Aurora Golden K Kiwanis recently held its 30th annual Installation of Officers. The new officers for 2009-2010 are: President Larry Miller, President Elect Art Zillgitt, Secretary Cele Sanders and Treasurer Dick Harrison.

Mushrooms liven up simple pork chops

The Associated Press — Sat, 7 Nov 2009 00:01 CST

In this season of approaching winter holidays and abrupt spikes in ham consumption, this much is worth noting: In the country where beef is held up as the meat that defines the American character, the pig in all its succulent, edible incarnations seems to be everywhere.

Network of bicycle trails has Fox Valley livin' large

By JEFF LONG Guest Columnist — Sat, 7 Nov 2009 04:00 CST

Jeff Long: Sometimes, an outsider's view can serve as a great reality check that provides a fresh perspective and makes us realize how lucky we really are.

Double up the flavor for this Sunday's battle

Thu, 5 Nov 2009 04:00 CST

This week, we honor Lovie's favorite defensive scheme with a chili that hits you two different ways. On the Arizona side of the ball, we've taken a classic Arizona snack food, the cheese crisp, and topped it with a chorizo chili.

Turkey Talk-Line has money saving tips

chicagofootballchili.com — Thu, 5 Nov 2009 04:00 CST

No need to carve anything out of your Thanksgiving meal this year. Americans can still enjoy one of the most treasured meals of the year despite the slowing economy.

Recreation briefs: Take Oswegoland quiz

From Staff Reports — Sat, 7 Nov 2009 04:00 CST

How well do you know Oswegoland Park District? The Park Foundation invites you to take this 12-question, multiple choice quiz.

Bacon, eggs and pasta combine for easy dinner

The Associated Press — Sat, 7 Nov 2009 00:01 CST

When the basic ingredients are bacon, pasta, eggs and Parmesan cheese, it's hard to go wrong. This uncomplicated recipe for spaghetti carbonara from Lucinda Scala Quinn's "Mad Hungry: Feeding Men and Boys," comes together in minutes.

Fast pork tenderloin stroganoff

The Associated Press — Sat, 7 Nov 2009 00:01 CST

Gordon Ramsay suggests serving buttered pasta or steamed rice to accompany this simple stroganoff made with pork tenderloin from his new book, "Cooking for Friends."