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.

Oct. 27 was a landmark day in the nearly 30-year history of Provena Villa Franciscan in Joliet. 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.

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.

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.

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."

Dear Abby: I am a 16-year-old guy in my sophomore year of high school. I am known as a friendly, outgoing guy who gets along with girls. My problem is, I used to be one of the biggest jerks who ever was. I was involved in fighting and other things I won't go into. But I turned my life around.

Q: I have had a problem with severe constipation for many years.

An agency that helps abused or neglected children who are involved in legal proceedings is $750 richer, thanks to some talented Will County art students, according to Jennifer Bertino-Tarrant, Will County regional superintendent of schools.

Founders Day/Gold Star Scholarship banquet: 6 p.m. Nov. 28, Holiday Inn, 411 S. Larkin Ave. in Joliet. Deadline to purchase tickets is Nov. 7.