Tax Deductions for the Self-Employed

business

Submitted by Diversified Financial Solutions   Many people have questions about expenses and tax deductions for the self-employed. Here are 21 items that may help you.   Advertising: Any materials for marketing your business (e.g. flyers, signage, ads, branded promo items, events, or trade shows) and the cost of developing those (e.g. agency or designer […]

Big News From Rich Little

rich little

By Nick Thomas   For those of us who lived through the 70s and 80s, the comedic impressionist Rich Little was everywhere on television. While he guest-starred in many classic TV shows, Little will always be remembered for his hilarious appearances on the Dean Martin Celebrity Roast TV series in the 1970s and early 80s. […]

ARC Celebrates Seven Years Serving Seniors This Spring

arc

While the last few years brought many pandemic-related challenges, ARC has continued to serve members through a variety of programs, new and well-loved, that help keep the 55+ community of Bloomington-Normal active and engaged.   Our Local Interest Speaker Series, a monthly offering that connects members to experts on a wide array of McLean County […]

Gardening with Grandchildren

garden

Playing in Dirt Isn’t Just Fun – It’s Healthy, Too!   By Kimberly Blaker   There’s no question, playing in the dirt tops the list of fun for kids, particularly young children, despite the protests of many well-intended grandparents. If you happen to be one of those worried grandparents, you can put your fears aside. […]

What Machine Do I Need?

quilting

So…you think you might like to try piecing a quilt block and maybe even make a table topper, but do not want to invest in an expensive sewing machine. You have looked at some in various quilting shops and the price tags are staggering, especially for the beginner who is not sure they will even […]

Lucky Shamrock Cookies

mint chocolate chips

It’s your lucky day because you don’t have to search for the pot of gold under the rainbow for this winning recipe. Throw out the old Irish classics and sweeten things up this year with some mint chocolate chip fun.   If you’re in a crunch for St. Patrick’s Day and need something glowing with […]

What Is a Blended Gift?

blended gift

Submitted by OSF HealthCare Foundation   A blended gift is a creative and easy giving strategy that may help you accomplish your philanthropic goals in a way that fits your budget, your family needs, and your schedule. Through the combination of an outright gift made now, “blended” with a future planned (or legacy) gift in […]

A Taste of Home The Joy of Food at Saxony Court

Saxony Court

By Alexander Germanis   When showing an open house, a popular tactic employed by realtors is to bake fresh chocolate chip cookies in the house’s oven. The aroma filling the otherwise empty house is meant to evoke feelings of comfort and, ultimately, make the clients feel like they’re not just looking at a potential purchase, […]