From the editor’s desk
Sunday was Veterans Day. Many celebrations were held last week as well as on Monday to honor our nation’s veterans. While all those events were special, I’m always so touched by the ceremonies held at our area schools. I love how the students become so involved in learning important lessons about our veterans, and I enjoy watching those veterans as they interact with our area students.
Clearly, there are many lessons to learn from the old, the young and everyone in between. Thanks to all who held a Veterans Day event, and a special thank you to the schools who brought life to important lessons in history.
•••
What’s the BigDeal? Every week, the Bureau County Republican works with a local merchant to offer you an opportunity to save some cash. You can find our weekly BigDeals! on our website at www.bcrnews.com. Following is this week’s BigDeal!:
• Look your best for the upcoming holidays with a one-month membership pass at Anytime Fitness in Spring Valley for only $15. This is a great deal; you save $15 off the regular price of $30.
•••
I had a great time last week during the Illinois Small Business Development Center’s 40 Under 40 event, which honored a variety of entrepreneurs under the age of 40 who are integral to the Illinois Valley. The event was held at IVAC’s Business After Hours at Deer Park Country Club in Oglesby. Watch Thursday’s BCR for a photo of all 40 entrepreneurs who were selected. Most likely, you’ll see some familiar faces!
•••
The BCR is again publishing its annual “A Homemade Holiday” recipe section on Dec. 8, and there’s still time for you to submit your favorite holiday recipe for inclusion in this section, which will, no doubt, be kept for years to come. The last day to submit a recipe is 5 p.m. Friday.
It’s really easy to participate. Without using any abbreviations (spell out all words like tablespoon, ounces, etc.), type or write out your favorite holiday recipe. Make sure the directions to the recipe are complete and easy to understand. Include your first and last name, your hometown, your email and telephone number. (Your telephone number and email will not be published.)
You can submit your recipe via a variety of venues, including by email at news@bcrnews.com. You can also use our online form at www.bcrnews.com/forms/recipe. You’re also welcome to mail your recipe to the BCR at P.O. Box 340, Princeton, IL 61356, or you can drop it off at our office at 800 Ace Road, Princeton. Keep in mind the BCR has an after-hours drop box at the rear of our building, where you can also deposit your recipe if our office is not open. Feel free to submit as many recipes as you’d like.
•••
Pet Photo Contest: It’s time to vote. Log on to www.bcrnews.com, click on the contest tab, find the pet contest and register to vote. Then vote for your favorite pet photo. Get your friends to vote too. The winner receives a $100 gift basket and their pet’s photo on the cover of our 2013 Pet Calendar. Second- through 12th-place finishers get their pets’ photos inside the calendar.
•••
Last Saturday was Christmas in the (Spring) Valley, and this weekend, you can get a jump on the holidays with special events in Princeton and Sheffield. As you plan your holiday shopping excursions, please try — when possible — to shop locally first. It’s a win/win situation for everyone.
•••
Thought for the day: “Words are things; and a small drop of ink, falling like dew upon a thought, produces that which makes thousands, perhaps millions, think.” Lord Byron.
•••
It’s difficult to believe the Thanksgiving holiday is just around the corner. Plan now to take some time to enjoy it with those your love. Breathe. Exhale. And remember ... you are important to me and the BCR.
