Stories for November 2010

Little book on the prairie

Topeka artist tries his hand at children's stories.

Local musicians offer 'A Word of Encouragement'

The holiday season is often full of unlikely Santas.

What do I do with ... game meat?

Venison, bison, elk and other meats provide an alternative to beef

Game meat is a term that can be painted with a broad brush these days

Review: Splatterhouse

The old school brawler stays true to its bloody, bloody roots.

Slice of Life: In the 'perfect' place

Varied interests mesh for KU student

Filmmaker, photographer, yoga teacher, martial arts enthusiast, seasoned traveler and Kansas University student Louis Anajjar, 30, spent over half his life searching for a place to feel “at home.”

River City Jules: an exclusive hoops interview

Basketball season is in full swing again, and do I ever have high hopes for a certain crew of boys in blue.

'Whipahol' alcohol-infused whipped creams a sweet hit

Something new is tempting the impulse-buyer: flavored, alcohol-infused whipped cream.

A gleeful endeavor: Lawrence Arts Center establishes choral pop group

"Glee" is one of the guiding forces behind LAC Voices, a new choral pop group established this fall through the Lawrence Arts Center.

Fix-It Chick: Tips to prepare your house for winter

Staying warm and saving money on heating costs are two goals that sometimes seem at odds when cold weather hits. Here are 10 steps that will help you do both.

Mass St. Chic: Mix up your holiday look with cosmetics

Although most women have a set beauty routine, now and then it’s fun to mix it up.

Behind the Lens: Granada part of historic FSA collection

The theater is one subject in the more than 164,000 photos shot by the Farm Security Administration for the Library of Congress.

Garden Calendar: What’s bugging your houseplants

The good news about insects and mites that feed on houseplants: Most of them are easy to control, once detected.

Lawrence bloggers are in the home stretch of National Blog Posting Month

The challenge, known as #NaBloPoMo, encourages them to post daily

If you’ve ever started a blog, you know exactly how difficult it is to keep it going.

November Final Friday map

Arts and events in the downtown area for the Final Friday community art exhibit in November.

Style Scout: Katy Clagett

I love black. Everyone looks good in black.

Style Scout: C.J. Calhoun

My only tattoo depicts the Deathly Hallows symbol from Harry Potter

Got leftovers? Here are a few handy ideas for your post-holiday situation

Recipes perfect for those who still have guests, too many mashed potatoes or a hankering for more pie

Sometimes, thanksgiving leftovers can be more daunting then the holiday itself.

Genuine Imitation: KU's acappella group something to 'Gleek' out about

KU’s acappella group is enjoying a new interest in the musical genre thanks to the hit show.

Review: Need For Speed: Hot Pursuit

Hot Pursuit impresses thanks in equal part to gorgeous graphics and high-tension arcade racing with only a few hiccups along the way.

Cooking Q&A: Some additional tips for holiday meal preparation

Some questions and answers about Thanksgiving Day meal preparation.

The Science of shopping: Impulse buying is nothing if not natural

As you gear up for the unbeatable deals and the epic consumerism of Black Friday remember: It's all instinctual.

Chinese food for the fajita lover

Love fajitas? Love Chinese food? If the answer is yes to one or both questions, you’ll probably love our Meatless Monday recipe for today.

Remnant Rehab: A 30-minute apron for you to whip up before the holidays

The holidays are almost here, and with them come a lot of cooking and baking. Before you get started, take half an hour to whip up an apron that will keep your ingredients off your clothes.

The Runner, the Baker, the Wedding Cake Maker: Roaring Fun Dessert

A chocolate cake made in the spirit of the 1920s makes for a perfect 29th birthday celebration

I didn’t really have to make my own birthday cake. My mom volunteered to, but I had a vision. I had a big vision for my 29th birthday in general.

Fix-It Chick: Sharp knives make huge difference in the kitchen

Sometimes considered a lost art by laymen, sharpening a knife with a whetstone is easier than you think.

Mass St. Chic: Holidays are fun fashion opportunities

Between Thanksgiving and New Year’s Day, we are barraged with party invitations from friends and family. Don’t be stressed out — plan your holiday outfits ahead of time instead. After all, once you’ve got the dress, darling, it’s downhill from there.

River City Jules: A Thanksgiving to beat all?

I will be the first to admit, if not flat-out brag, that my brother-in-law’s Thanksgiving turkey is the most delectable, savory food ever to hit one’s taste buds.

Tips for making your home a cozy zone this fall

A warm, inviting feeling is easy to achieve

It’s more than just a large heating bill that can make your home feel warm and toasty.

Slice of Life: A Passion for Africa

Jill Dryden's longtime dream taking shape

A sea-shell bracelet purchased as a young teen in her native Texas, a random lecture at Kansas University, and a spontaneous response to an e-mail birthed Jill Dryden’s love affair with Africa.

Behind the Lens: Photo postcards from the turn of the century

Mary, an amateur photographer, Facebooks her friend Mrs. Mable Cranston of Langdon, Kan., with a note and an attached photograph of her son Myron. It’s a little unusual because the photo is in black-and-white, the text is handwritten and the message sent in March of 1914.

Operation Wildlife in Linwood seeks ‘Santa Claws’ support

The community is invited to support Operation Wildlife by becoming a Santa Claws at a special event from noon to 6 p.m. Dec. 12.

Victorian England comes to life in ‘Christmas Carol’ at Lawrence Public Library

The spirits of the holiday season will be in the air when EbzB Productions presents “The Night Before Christmas Carol” at 3 p.m. Nov. 28 at Lawrence Public Library, 707 Vt.

Shop for handmade gifts from Van Go artists

Artwork and gifts by apprentice artists ages 14-21 can be purchased during Van Go Mobile Art’s Adornment Art Show and Sale.

Centenary United Methodist Church offers Festival of Nativities

Tucked onto the second floor of the Centenary United Methodist Church is a sight to behold: More than 350 nativity sets crowd the tables and hang from the walls of the small church building. They come from nearly 50 different countries and at least five different continents.

Homes for the Holidays: Lawrence's 2010 holiday homes tour to benefit Health Care Access Clinic

They say the holidays are truly more about giving than receiving, and Sally Zogry, development director for Health Care Access, hopes the giving spirit is alive and well this year in Lawrence.

Downtown Lawrence Christmas parade helps usher in holiday

Robin Dunn is starting to get excited. The event that kicks off her holiday season is nearly here: The Downtown Lawrence Old-Fashioned Christmas Parade will take place at 11 a.m. Dec. 4, launching at Seventh and Massachusetts streets and heading south.

Lawrence kids can catch the Santa Claus express

The Midland Railway Santa Claus Express trains will return next month, when singers will be aboard the train performing holiday music while passengers make their way to see Santa.

KU's Fair Trade Holiday Market reopening for season

An upcoming event at Kansas University offers fairly traded arts and crafts from local and international artisans that make unique holiday gifts while also helping artisans in need.

Music academy announces ‘A Celtic Christmas’ at Lawrence Arts Center

The theme of the Americana Music Show is “A Celtic Christmas,” featuring a rich mix of Irish, Scottish and traditional Christmas tunes. The show will be at 7:30 p.m. Dec. 3 at the Lawrence Arts Center, 940 N.H.

Lawrence artists announce Sip and Shop event

A group of Lawrence artists are collaborating for a second annual Holiday Sip and Shop event, where shoppers can buy locally created gifts and enjoy a beverage.

'Snow Queen' set to delight audiences at Lawrence Arts Center

With more than 130 actors, dancers and stage hands of all ages, the Lawrence Arts Center’s production of “The Snow Queen” will bring magical fairy tale action to the holiday theater scene.

Lawrence Holiday Farmers' Market offers fresh finds for gifts

After months of offering up locally grown fruits and vegetables for residents’ consumption, the Lawrence Farmers’ Market will be closing for the year, though, not before one final holiday edition of the market next month. This year, the Holiday Farmers’ Market will be held at the Lawrence Holidome, 200 McDonald Drive, relocating from its previous location at the Knights of Columbus Hall.

Annual Festival of Trees at Liberty Hall raises funds for The Shelter Inc.

Fifty trees have been chopped, plucked and decorated. They will be put on display for the 24th annual Festival of Trees event, a benefit for The Shelter Inc.

Eldridge Hotel Gingerbread Festival and Auction to benefit Big Brothers Big Sisters of Douglas County

The toughest part about assembling a gingerbread house, says Amy Wilson, is coming up with an idea.

Numerous events benefit Douglas County Toys for Tots

Toys for Tots with the assistance of the Marines will be collecting toys and money through the holiday season. All donations made to Douglas County Toys for Tots remain in Douglas County and are used to provide toys for the children in the community.

Vespers in Douglas County bring in songs of the holiday season

The holiday season brings the return of a strong local tradition: annual vespers concerts at Kansas University, Baker University and in Lecompton. Music and themes will differ at each location, but each will include festive music celebrating the holiday season.

Faith Forum: How should Thanksgiving be discussed in a religious context?

The Bible says, “to give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.”

Best of Lawrence is back and we want your help

For the first time since 2006, the town's best food, drink, fun and services will be voted on by you

Lawrence's 34th annual Holiday Bazaar to feature over 130 artists

Hundreds of colors illuminate the room as the sun glistens off the glass in Harvey Murphy’s workshop. Murphy is a craftsman specializing in stained-glass pictures.

Who's who at Hogwarts

A compendium of actors, roles, and trivia behind "Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows: Part One."

Review: A Midsummer Night's Dream

A performance unlike any other.

Need presents? Try some Lawrence originals and give holiday charity at the same time

Consider these special sales before blowing your whole budget on Black Friday.

Style Scout: Adam Hess

My most recent tattoo is a tribute to Kansas. It is a hoot owl.

Style Scout: Natasha Kastl

Tell us a secret: I have a girl crush on Alia, the owner of Adorned. She’s so exotic and beautiful. I’m in awe of her.

Navigating your first Thanksgiving

Tips, advice, and info to avoid a last-minute Thanksgiving disaster.

Review: "Call of Duty: Black Ops"

Black Ops is not a series or genre changing achievement like Modern Warfare was, but it has made major headroom for the series and proves Treyarch belongs alongside Infinity Ward as a Call of Duty developer.

Dessert alternatives for Thanksgiving pie

Pies that defy Thanksgiving tradition.

How should faith and holidaytime charity mix?

Meatless Monday recipe of the week: Chipotle Black Bean Grilled Quesadilla

Happy Meatless Monday folks! How was the lasagna recipe we shared last week? Good?

Treating teen acne takes a multi-pronged approach

Acne is a four letter word for teenagers.

Slice of Life: A lifelong pilgrimage

Spiritual search leads down many paths

“Life isn’t a destination; it’s a pilgrimage,” says Bruce Curtis.

Fix-It Chick: Diligence in fall will help your yard through winter

With fall officially here, now is the time to survey your yard and prepare it for the long cold winter.

Ways to manage your weight loss

Various programs emphasizing health may help

During her lunch hour each Wednesday, Sue Phillips, 38, steps onto a scale for a weigh-in.

Thanksgiving without a hefty price: Tips for having an extravagant holiday on the cheap

The December holidays get tagged as the most expensive of the year. But as anyone who has ever hosted a Thanksgiving feast knows, Turkey Day isn’t cheap either.

Home-brewing enlivens Lawrence neighborhood

Little did Paula Pepin know 21 years ago when she bought her husband John a present for their first anniversary that the gift would ignite a passion in her husband for home beer brewing.

Mass St. Chic: Winter accessories are fun and fashionable

Yuck. Our long summer has finally, officially ended. It is cold outside!

Garden Calendar: Make keeping out critters a top priority

Squirrels and I used to accept each other’s presence in my yard.

Behind the Lens: The hail Aussie or snake-in-the-grass technique

I wrote about the “Hail Mary” photo technique last week in this column.

Runaway trains are nothing new at the movies

Suspense and action movies fall into all kinds of subcategories.

Cider house rules: The seasonal apple delight is more than just a drink, it's a kitchen all-star

Apple cider is one of the joys of autumn, right up there with turning leaves and pumpkin-flavored anything. That said, there are more ways to enjoy the fall drink than just hot or cold.

An eye for expansion: Bar and restaurant owners bring a little bit of Lawrence out of town

Any Lawrencian headed out of the Sprint Center after a game or concert is likely to meet a friendly face just steps outside the venue’s doors: John Wilson.

Style scout: Scott Wisdom

How would you describe your style? Work-oriented, European, and tailored. Dressy, but not stuffy.

Style scout: Caroline Mathias

What are your least favorite fashion trends? Items that aren’t weather-appropriate, like flip-flops during the fall.

Launch pad: Lawrence artists use Rocket Grants to fuel creativity

Funding from the Andy Warhol Foundation for the Visual Arts have given local artists access to a larger audience.

Lawrence Arts Center welcomes teens for ‘Spring Awakening’ project

Lawrence teens will be expected to do more than act when it comes to grappling with difficult issues and addressing real-life problems, as part of a grant-financed project at the Lawrence Arts Center.

Oil Alternatives: Healthy options in place of canola

In the world of cooking oil, two kinds seem to be king: Generic vegetable and extra virgin olive.

It's Meatless Monday! Why not make this tasty lasagna tonight?

Meatless Monday is a money- and health-saving initiative so old that even Herbert Hoover participated in it.

Review: Red Dead Redemption: Undead Nightmare

If you loved Red Dead Redemption and have been holding off on DLC, Undead Nightmare is a steal at $10. Highly recommended.

Four fall fashion items men should own

This fall, men have brilliant options to update their style. Fashions are modern but classic, versatile, and built to stand the test of time. Read on for four fall trends that every man can work into his wardrobe.

Cruise spa's expensive shower not to one’s fancy

My friend Sara is taking a cruise this winter, abandoning us to relax on the Promenade Deck. Oblivious to the shade of green upon my face, she asked if I had any advice.

Showing up for others: Kiwanis honor Lawrence member for perfect attendance

Myrle Hemenway, 93, exemplifies constancy and commitment. He was married for 64 years, taught for 52, and has just celebrated 62 years of perfect attendance at Kiwanis meetings.

Meditation isn't about bliss; It's about understanding your mind

I recently had, as they say, a medical procedure, one of those things that you expect as you get older (turns out I’m fine). Highly unpleasant, even with local anesthesia, so they offered me a Valium. “I don’t like Valium,” I said. “Are you sure?” they asked. “Really,” I said. “Are you really sure?” they asked. “Really.”

Tips for selling homes in Lawrence

Lawrence residents Bob and Linda Kerr put their house on the market at the end of April, and it only took 37 days for a buyer to swoop in and pluck it up.

Insulating water heater can add up to 10 percent savings each year

If your hot water heater tank feels warm to the touch, adding an insulating water heater blanket could save you up to 10 percent in water heating costs each year.

Lawrence Memorial Hospital contracting with Kansas farmers to build menus

When Don Williams sits down to plan his menus, he does so with farmer and a seed catalog. Seriously.

Power playlists: Here are some song suggestions to get you in the mood to work out

Staying motivated while trotting on the treadmill can be an uphill battle. To spur them on, many local exercise enthusiasts use a secret weapon — customized workout playlists.

Winter wellness: Try these natural remedies to stay healthy when the temperatures drop

When kids are sick, mothers are always happy to help in any way they can. And when Lawrence’s Kara Harms was battling a sinus infection, her mother suggested a new remedy that also happens to be very, very old. The neti pot.

Meet The 2010 Phoenix Award Winners

Five of Lawrence’s top artists will be recognized Sunday afternoon during a ceremony and reception for the 15th annual Phoenix Awards.

Exploring the urban landscape

Perhaps, because local artist Janet Satz grew up near Chicago’s towering skyscrapers, it makes sense that much of her art focuses on the architecture of large buildings and cities. Satz, a Lawrence resident since 1989, says she’s been creating art as far back as she can remember into her childhood.

Lost In Transit

The inspiration for Janet Satz's work came from train rides on Chicago’s public transit and the quick glances of the scenery she caught as she gazed out the windows.

Review: Rock Band 3

Rock Band 3 is a clear one-stop shop for all your rock/rhythm needs. Those who seek an updated title will get more than 80 new songs and enough tweaks to the biggest gripes of the previous titles to necessitate this one. If learning to play a real instrument is your thing, this is the best choice out there if you want to forgo lessons and learn through gaming.

Deep roots: Some of Lawrence's oldest family names are still thriving

Flory. Bowersock. Poehler. Colman. Those are some of Lawrence’s oldest families, but those names aren’t dead and gone. In fact, they’re thriving and their descendants are still here living in the town their relatives helped build.

Style scout: John Wubbels

I’d … like to see more organ grinders with trained monkeys and more vibrancy.

Style scout: Emily Johnson

I don’t wear anything new. I like things with history, character, and a story to them.

Tonganoxie clothier's success story began with birthday gift for her mother

From their unassuming headquarters on Canaan Farm in Tonganoxie, Peruvian Connection has clothed women for almost 35 years in luxurious natural fibers from the Andes Mountains and around the world.

All about the pumpkin: From canned pumpkin shortages to pureeing

Is there a canned pumpkin shortage again this year?

What do I do with ... winter squash?

For squash-lovers, there's more to eat this season than just butternut, acorn and pumpkin

What is autumn without squash?

Human billboards are signs of the times

Imagine this help-wanted ad: “Employee needed to work outside. Smiling and waving required. Dancing encouraged. Bring your headset.”

Double take: Parents freeing children from responsible behavior

Dear Dr. Wes and Ben: I am noticing an annoying trend among my playgroup parents to blame every undesirable behavior their kid has on someone else.

The trick to reusing treats: Leftover candy? Use it for building instead of eating

Sharon Bowers has an ingenious trick for distracting children from their post-Halloween sugary stashes: Use the candy as construction materials in crafts.

Healthy stuffed chicken

Any meal that is golden and crunchy on the outside and oozes rich melted cheese is bound to be a diet buster, right?

Election days: Douglas County clerk puts life toward public service

The inspiration of the Founding Fathers, his mother’s death and his wife’s encouragement contributed to helping Douglas County Clerk Jamie Shew achieve his childhood dream.

Reiki to the rescue

Stressed? Feeling stuck? Lacking energy? Reiki might help. I sampled a free treatment at a Lawrence reiki circle.

Mulch or rake leaves to keep grass healthy

The beauty of fall brings with it the conundrum of fallen leaves. Thick layers of leaves deprive lawns of much-needed sunlight and foster disease that wrecks havoc on even the healthiest of lawns. Raking and/or mulching leaves throughout the fall season is an imperative part of good lawn maintenance.

A guide to grad school: Get some expert tips if you’re planning to continue your education

It happens every year. Inevitably each December, after stuffing envelopes and licking stamps, a prospective graduate student will realize his mistake: He forgot to change the name of the university for each of his purpose letters, sending the wrong letter to the wrong school. And if the applicant fails to notice or remember, the graduate selection committee will certainly spot the error. Rejected without a pause.

Bottled water? What a boondoggle

Want a tall, cool glass of one of the slickest boondoggles on the market? Have some bottled water. According to the National Resources Defense Council, Americans annually spend $4 billion on water they once would have drunk from the tap. How did the bottling companies transform our drinking habits? By convincing us that tap water wasn’t safe.

Road masters: Get teens ready for driving in winter weather

Icy winter roads can be nerve-wracking for anyone, even the most experienced of commuters. But imagine you’ve just gotten your license and have never been behind the wheel during the winter months. That’s what Andrew Stussie, a junior at Lawrence High School, is facing as the weather turns colder.

Classic sweaters paired with new looks

I’ve always believed that a girl can’t have enough jackets or coats. In fact, when the seasons change, I open up my closet doors and pat myself on the back, proud of my large and various collection of fall outerwear. That was, proud until yesterday, when the pole in my closet came crashing to the floor, no longer able to support the weight of so many, many jackets.

Not a ditz, Mom! No, really…

Another fall, another round of parent-teacher conferences done. Like many parents, I imagine, I attend these conferences not for constructive criticism, but to spend time with my children’s teachers swapping stories about how brilliant and entertaining my children are.

Go ’70s glam goddess

Think big (hair). Think bold (eye shadow). Think bright (lips).

Recipe on request: The veggie burger

How does Rachel Lyle of Lawrence love the lentil burger from The Burger Stand at the Casbah? Let her count the ways.