Holidays 2024 EDITION
Pastor Joseph Goodroad on the MYSTERIES AND JOYS OF CHRISTMAS
April Kroenke on WHAT FAMILY PORTRAITS REALLY MEAN
Kelly Sigg invites you to CELEBRATE THE SEASON IN IOLA
Kelli Frazell reminds us HEALTH IS A JOURNEY, NOT A DESTINATION and more!
Christmas Mystery, Christmas Joy
By Pastor Joseph Goodroad, Grace Lutheran Church of Iola
Christmas is one of the two great mountain peaks of joy in the Church calendar, comparable only to Easter. Strictly speaking, Christmas is a church holiday. For me, it has been a great joy and comfort to join the saints throughout the centuries in celebrating Christmas, just as they once did.
The hearts of the ancient Christians were filled with expectant joy not because of presents, not because of family gatherings, and probably not because of eggnog coming back onto the grocery store shelves, but to celebrate the mystery of God being made flesh.
One of these ancients, from the fifth century AD, put this mystery into verse, “He Who Himself all things did make / A servant’s form vouchsafed to take / That He as Man mankind might win / And save His creatures from their sin” (Coelius Sedulius, c. 450, translated by Richard Massie, 1854). It is a profound, eternal mystery which people have wrestled to understand since the first century: how could God become Man? How could He simultaneously be omnipresent,
upholding the existence of all creation, outside of time and being that in which all time subsists… and yet also be a little boy growing up in Nazareth?
The more you think about it, especially in context of Him performing all His great works in the Old Testament, the more amazing the mystery becomes. The breath that parted the Red Sea for the Israelites is the same breath that called out
Pastor Goodroad, holding his eldest son Bjorn, is joined by wife Olivia and infant son Sven.
to His mother Mary when He needed to nurse. That’s the mystery of Christmas.
But it may be asked, “So what? Sure, it’s a great mystery, but what’s the point? What makes it joyful?” If all we knew about Jesus was that He was born, I would agree with the question. But God revealed much more than that. Jesus didn’t come to earth for a fun trip, He didn’t come just to make sure we have cute nativity scenes to decorate our yards. He came to die and rise. He came to put sin to death in His own Body, thereby opening the door of heaven to all who believe in His name. The point of Christmas is Good Friday.
That’s why Christmas is joyful. All the dark shadows of death have been put to flight by the dayspring from on high. That’s what Christmas means to me, and that’s what Christmas means for you as well. All the other good Christmas traditions arose to help emphasize the original joy of salvation for all mankind.
to sit down with a sweet glass of eggnog, and to reconnect with family; I know I will. But in all your festivities, don’t forget: a greater feast awaits us in heaven.
Merriest
HOLIDAY WISHES
So yes, find time to exchange gifts after church,
DUTCH COUNTRY CAFE
Getting into the holiday spirit
By Kelly Sigg, Iola Chamber of Commerce director
Prepare for a fun-filled holiday season organized by the Iola Area Chamber of Commerce and Tourism!
Kicking off the season is Iola’s annual Block Party. On Friday, Dec. 6, businesses on and around the Iola square will stay open until 7 p.m. and offer shopping, treats and holiday music. It’s a perfect way to get into the spirit this Christmas — and help you find that perfect gift.
This year's Block Party will include dozens of participating businesses offering exclusive specials and discounts. For those 18 and older,
punch cards are back again, bringing a chance to win one of three prizes. Businesses pull out all the stops when it comes to decorating their stores for the holiday season, so make sure to mark your calendars and head to Iola's square.
As the season approaches, everyone is eagerly awaiting Santa’s arrival. This year, Santa will be at the Block Party making the rounds and sharing holiday cheer.
On Saturday, Dec. 7, a candy cane hunt will be held on the square at noon. Join us for a special treat — or perhaps rescue — later that afternoon. Santa will be in his house to meet with children from 1-3 p.m. and 5-7 p.m.
Don't worry if you miss him! Santa will be back from 4-6 p.m. on Wednesday, Dec. 11. Come prepared with your wish list and bring your letters to Santa to put in his mailbox.
The Kiwanis train will be available for rides on Dec. 6, 7 and 11 and Iola’s Fearless Fred Trolley on Saturday, Dec. 11. Make sure to enjoy cookies, cocoa and candy canes. And back by popular demand, April Kroenke Photography will provide a special opportunity for photos with Santa.
The Iola Area Chamber of Commerce and Tourism looks forward to seeing you this holiday season!
Holiday Cheers that will inspire you
By Brian and Lindsey Shaughnessy, O'Shaughnessy Liquor
This season is our favorite time of year. For us, it’s a time to take stock of all the blessings in our lives and celebrate with friends and family.
Here at O’Shaughnessy Liquor, we have something for everyone. We offer a large variety of seasonal beverages, no matter the taste or the occasion.
This year, we thought we’d share some of our favorite drink recipes. They’re easy to make, delicious and offer the classic flavors of the season.
Come see us today! We can help make your holidays memorable by providing the special touch to an evening’s entertainment. Happy holidays, and we hope to see you soon!
Recipe:
Sparkling Vodka-cranberry Cocktail
Treat your guests to this bubbly aperitif to kick off your next cocktail party. Its festive hue and exquisite flavor will delight their taste buds—and yours!
Ingredients:
• Ice cubes
• 1 oz. vodka
• 3/4 cup cranberry juice
• 1 oz. ginger ale
• A few mint leaves, for garnish
Steps:
1. Place a tall glass in the freezer for at least 10 minutes.
2. Just before serving, add ice cubes and pour, in this order, vodka, cranberry juice and ginger ale. Do not mix.
3. Garnish with mint leaves.
Recipe:
Festive spritz
This sparkling and colorful cocktail is the perfect way to get your party started with style!
Ingredients:
• 2 ounces bitter liqueur (Aperol or Amermelade-style liqueur)
• 3 ounces sparkling wine
• Club soda, to top it off
• Ice cubes
• 1 orange wedge
• A few fresh mint leaves
Steps:
1. Pour the bitter liqueur and sparkling wine into a pretty glass. Top it off with club soda.
2. Add a few ice cubes, and then garnish with the orange wedge and fresh mint.
Recipe:
Candy cane martini
This minty martini is a throwback to childhood Christmases of yore. Serve it at a holiday celebration, or enjoy it with a loved one by a crackling fire.
Ingredients:
• 6 ice cubes
• 1/4 cup vodka
• 2 tablespoons white vermouth
• 2 tablespoons crème de menthe
• 1-1/2 teaspoons spearmint cream
• 2 candy canes
• 4 red maraschino cherries
• 2 green maraschino cherries
Steps:
1. In a cocktail shaker, combine the ice cubes, vodka, vermouth, simple syrup and crème de menthe. Shake for about 30 seconds or until well blended.
2. In 2 martini glasses, strain the candy cane martini mixture (without the ice cubes).
3. Garnish each glass with a candy cane pierced with 2 red and 1 green maraschino cherry.
YOUR HOLIDAY SEASON BE FILLED
Nostalgic Christmas
By Regena Lance, The Mildred Store
As we all gather around the table with family and friends this holiday season, it’s a great time to reflect on the many blessings we have. The holidays always bring back memories of simpler times, especially those cherished moments from our childhood. The Mildred Store captures that nostalgic feeling and has everything you need to host a fantastic holiday get-together.
In the spirit of Christmas, the Mildred Store also gives back to the community in some wonderful ways. We help local churches and organizations by providing old-fashioned Christmas candy for
their events, which is always a hit. We even host a Christmas Walkthrough that tells the story of Jesus’ birth, complete with tasty treats for everyone who stops by. And let’s not forget the community potluck dinner featuring a visit from Santa! Plus, if you drive by after dark, you can see the yard all lit up with decorations — it's really something special.
Holidays are about more than just finding and giving the perfect gift. Sometimes we get so caught up in the hustle and bustle that we forget what Christmas is about. The Mildred Store is here to help remind us to focus on the true spirit of the season.
When we come together as families, friends, and neighbors, remember that the Mildred Store can take some of the pressure off by providing tasty trays specifically made for your gatherings. This way, you can spend less time worrying about cooking and more time enjoying each other’s company.
Let’s make an effort to slow down and truly savor the holiday season. It’s not just about the
appreciate the fact that we’re all together. This time of year is truly beautiful, and it deserves to be celebrated with gratitude and joy.
RECOVER CLOSE TO HOME
By Allen County Regional Hospital staff
Being home for the holidays can be good for your overall health and well-being. Simply returning to a familiar place and reconnecting with loved ones has many health benefits, including lowering stress and improving mental health. Being home can also help you reset, recharge, and focus on what really matters.
For patients who have been in the hospital, returning home can have similar positive effects, particularly for those who have been more isolated, miles away from friends and family.
If you or a loved one is ready to be discharged from the hospital and isn’t quite well enough to go directly home, a transitional stay at your hometown hospital may be just what you need to help rebuild strength, function, and confidence.
A patient can be discharged to skilled swing bed care if they have been in the hospital for at least three consecutive days and continue to have a qualifying skilled need, such as debilitating weakness requiring physical therapy, wound care, or respiratory or IV therapy.
“Don’t be afraid to ask your care team for a skilled swing bed evaluation and tell them you want to recover close to home.”
~ Chelsea Buck
Allen County Regional Hospital in Iola and Anderson County Hospital in Garnett offer a skilled nursing and short-term rehabilitation program, commonly known as swing bed.
“Our swing bed patients may be recovering from a stroke, heart attack, or from a serious illness like pneumonia or COPD,” said Chelsea Buck, RN, nurse manager at Allen County Regional Hospital. “The physical and occupational therapy provided by our rehab team can also help patients who suffered a break or had joint replacement, or another major injury or surgery.”
Chelsea Buck, RN, nurse manager at Allen County Regional Hospital.
Swing bed patients benefit from having weekly or more frequent visits from a physician and lower nurse-to-patient ratios. Therapy received is intense, up to 90 minutes per day. When you’re ready to transition home, your therapist can provide an in-home evaluation to help make sure the environment is safe and any assistive equipment is in place.
“What’s important for people to know is that if you or a loved one is hospitalized in Wichita or Kansas City, you may be able to transfer here to continue your recovery with us,” says Buck. “You have a choice. Don’t be afraid to ask your care team for a skilled swing bed evaluation and tell them you want to recover close to home.”
Our skilled swing bed patients have large, comfortable rooms and visitors are always welcome,
even overnight. You wear your own clothes and can bring in items from home. While our hospital meals are quite good, visitors are welcome to bring special meals from home or a favorite restaurant.
With approval from the attending physician, swing bed patients can even get a day pass and leave the hospital to go on a drive or attend a special event or holiday gathering with friends and family.
We know being close to home and near loved ones can help speed recovery. Let us help you get home and back to what matters most.
Call our case manager at 620-365-1144 or visit saintlukeskc.org/skilled-nursing to learn more about swing bed care in Iola or Garnett.
From left: Chelsea Buck, RN, Medical Surgical and Emergency Department Nurse Manager; Drew Mueller, Physical Therapist; and Scott Fehr, Physical Therapy Assistant
Recovery Is Easier Near the Ones You Love
Patient needs change throughout their recovery. That’s why Allen County Regional Hospital offers short-term skilled nursing care, also called swing bed, which allows patients to spend added days in a hospital setting where they can continue to focus on rebuilding strength and function before returning home.
Get the care you need right here in Iola. When you need more time to recover, stay close to home at Allen County Regional Hospital.
Your Health is a Journey, not a Destination
By Kelli Frazell, Humboldt Fitness director
The idea that health is a journey, not a destination, means that your health is a lifelong process of learning, growing, and evolving. It’s about enjoying the process and making healthy choices, rather than forcing yourself to do things you don’t necessarily want in order to reach a goal.
Too many times we see people attempt to improve their health through hardcore exercise regimens or rigid diet programs. These individuals commonly don’t consider their health an everyday focus, just a goal to work towards. They’ll over-exert and even injure themselves trying to reach those goals quickly, to arrive at that destination. Well, buckle up because this is a journey.
There are no quick fixes to improving your fitness and well-being, no secret formulas, shortcuts, or magic pills to success. Living a healthy, more fulfilling life is a journey that takes consistency, perseverance, and long-term commitment. Losing weight, gaining muscle, or just feeling better shouldn’t be the only goals of your health and fitness resolutions, but rather a side effect of living a well-balanced life. Finding that bal-
ance of what works for you and your body is key to your overall health and feeling good.
Healthy lifestyles require taking small steps every day towards improving your long-term health. Making practical, daily lifestyle changes such as sitting less, moving more, eating more nutritious foods, getting quality sleep, and drinking more water can go a long way in improving one’s health. Get the “All or Nothing” mentality out of the way. Focus on small daily changes to work towards better health. Keep moving forward on that journey.
During this journey, it’s important that you embrace the process. Enjoy it and don’t force yourself to make changes you don’t enjoy or find pleasurable. If you hate what you’re doing, you’re not going to stick with it. Find a support system that can provide motivation, accountability, and understanding. And be patient with yourself. Making these changes will take time and there will be setbacks along the way. View them as learning opportunities and grow from them. Don’t beat yourself up if you “slip up” or don’t meet your expectations. These setbacks
are part of any growth process. Be kind to yourself, refocus, and continue with more awareness.
Make sure you celebrate the small wins. When your health is a journey, it may be difficult to celebrate since you don’t have an “end goal.” But find the small victories and celebrate those things. It could be getting eight hours of sleep, sticking with a workout routine for a week, having more energy, or choosing a healthy meal when you’re tempted by something less nutritious. These small wins help build momentum and reinforce the idea that the journey is just as rewarding as hitting a big goal.
It’s important to remember that if you don’t reach the goals you want for the day, week, month, or year, just keep moving forward. This is not about immediate gratification. It’s about the journey, not the destination.
The Constants of Christmas
By Cleaver Farm & Home
The winter season brings longer nights, cold weather, and moments with family that remind us time often moves along a little too fast for our liking. The kids are suddenly taller than we remember, last year’s baby is walking, and more chairs are now around the table.
But there are constants, too. The warmth of family. Recipes, traditions and stories that remind us of where we come from. And a focus on taking care of each other that becomes especially important.
Cleaver Farm & Home ACE Hardware has been a part of southeast Kansas for more than 80 years.
Throughout the journey from then to now, from first generation to fourth, we understand the importance of change, and the power of constants.
We’ve changed as a business, starting in 1946 as a small livestock and scrap metal operation and to now a diversified company with more than 60 employees. Our newly remodeled store covers 20,000 square feet of retail showroom and office space along with 45,000 square feet of storage on 15 acres of land.
Last year we transitioned from True Value to ACE Hardware, a move we’re continually happy with. And just this month we started on our latest project: giving our Kitchen & Bath Design Center and Contractor Area completely new looks!
But these changes are anchored by constants. Our business model remains the same: providing unmatched service and quality products at competitive pricing. And we remain steadfastly committed to southeast
Kansas. A big part of that means supporting the small business owners who are our friends and neighbors.
Shopping local means everything to small businesses. Sure, it’s easy to buy everything online. Two minutes on an app. Who cares where it comes from?
But shopping local means that money stays in our community. Tax revenues fund our schools, jobs stay in town, and businesses keep their lights on. We love our way of life here in Kansas, and we know what makes it possible: good neighbors, strong relationships, taking care of each other. These constants don’t change.
So this holiday season, take an extra day to do your Christmas shopping locally. Come visit us, or we’ll be happy to deliver. But don’t stop
there! Make sure to check out other area merchants, too. There are so many wonderful area businesses that would love to help you find the perfect gift to put under the tree.
From our family to yours, we wish you all a merry Christmas.
Top 5 Ways to Reduce Holiday Stress
By Vicki Wright, senior grant writer at Southeast Kansas Mental Health Center
B"ah Humbug!” If this is the way you feel about the holidays, you’re not alone. Some may call it the “holiday blues.” Others just chalk it up to the added stress and worry that come with the holiday season.
Attempting to live up to all the holiday traditions and expectations often leaves us reeling with stress instead of jumping for joy.
In fact, according to a study conducted by the American Psychological Association, 89 percent of people surveyed said their stress levels increase during the holiday season. Stressors include lack of time and money, pressures of gift-giving, and family gatherings.
Handling holiday stress is difficult for everyone. Here are some tips to make the holidays easier:
• Worry less. It’s easy to compare our celebrations and traditions with those we see idealized in the media. But don’t do it. No family is perfect. Your dinner table doesn’t have to be fancy. There doesn’t have to be an overflowing pile of presents under your tree. And you don’t have to have the “perfect” ugly sweater for that party
Friday night. You’ll be able to enjoy the holidays much more if you’re not worried about making sure everything is picture-perfect.
• Establish limits. This applies on many levels. Holidays are a time of indulgence with both food and beverage. Know when enough is enough on that holiday candy and spiked eggnog. Too much will leave you feeling uncomfortable later. Stay within your budget when giving gifts. It’s easy to splurge for a loved one, but if it’s going to cause you hardship down the line, reconsider the present.
• Remember self-care. With the hustle and bustle of the holiday season, it’s easy to forget to take care of yourself. Factor in time to exercise, meditate, read a book or do anything else you enjoy. Getting a bit of “me” time may be just what you need to reset your holiday clock.
• Say no. It’s common for families to gather to celebrate. Nearly all families are dysfunctional in some way. However, some families create toxic environments. If you feel pressured to gather with individuals who cause you trau-
ma, decline the invitation. The holidays should be a happy time. If these celebrations hurt your mental and emotional well-being, don’t go.
• Reach out for help. Ask family members to divide up tasks or to assist you as you tend to holiday duties. If you continue feeling overwhelmed, consider that your feelings may not just be a side effect of the holidays. You may be experiencing depression, anxiety, or other issues that should be addressed by a mental health professional. Additionally, even if you don’t normally experience mental health issues, but your struggles during the holiday season are holding you back from everyday life, consider seeking professional help to work through your feelings.
Southeast Kansas Mental Health Center is here to help you during the holidays and all other times of the year. Call us 24/7 at 1-866-9732241 or visit us at sekmhc.org. If you or someone you know is experiencing a mental health crisis, call 988, the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline.
Nobody should go through trials alone. We are here to help.
Strengthening Bonds and a Sense of Belonging
by April Kroenke, April Kroenke Photography
Family portraits are more than just decoration; they symbolize connection, identity, and legacy. Displaying portraits in the home serves as a daily reminder of who you are and where you come from and can positively impact emotional well-being and family dynamics. In an age dominated by digital images, physical portraits offer tangible reminders of loved ones, reinforcing the feeling of belonging and strengthening family bonds.
Studies show that a strong sense of family connection contributes to emotional stability
and resilience, particularly in children. Family portraits create a visual "family tree" that connects the past and present, helping everyone feel united. For young children, family portraits foster a sense of security.
Research suggests that children who see family photos regularly feel more confident and supported. Psychologist David Krauss notes that photographs help create a family narrative, providing a sense of identity that is especially beneficial as children navigate the challenges
of childhood and adolescence. Seeing family members frequently — whether through direct interaction or portraits — reminds children they are part of something larger: a network of love and support.
Celebrating Legacy and Memories
Family portraits also preserve memories, capturing milestones and shared experiences. They provide a visual record of life’s important moments, from weddings and family reunions to the births of children and holidays spent together. Displaying these images keeps memories alive, encouraging appreciation for the past while making space for new memories. These portraits often become family heirlooms, passed down through generations, offering future family members a link to their roots.
Beyond appearances, family portraits convey values, heritage, and tradition. Each image commemorates cherished moments in time and serves as a reminder of family history. By surrounding yourself with these images, you cultivate gratitude and joy in the present, celebrating the stories that have shaped your family.
Enhancing Home Atmosphere and Aesthetic Value
From a design perspective, family portraits add warmth and personality to a home, making it feel lived-in and personal. Whether traditional painted portraits or modern photographs, these images enhance the aesthetic of any room while reflecting family history. Family portraits can also serve as conversation starters, offering guests a glimpse into who you are and what you cherish.
Photos in areas like living rooms or hallways can
balance the energy in a space. Walking past a wall of family portraits evokes pride and love, positively influencing the home’s atmosphere.
Passing Down a Sense of Identity
Ultimately, family portraits do more than decorate a home—they pass down a legacy of love, resilience, and connection. They remind each family member of their role in the family story and reinforce a sense of shared identity. For younger generations, visible portraits offer an emotional anchor, nurturing a sense of belonging and pride.
In essence, family portraits bridge past, present, and future, creating a shared narrative that enriches everyone’s lives with love, unity, and history.
4 gestures of love and sharing to brighten the Christmas of the less privileged
By the Iola Register staff
Are you aware of your privileges, such as good health and a good-paying job? Do you want to express your gratitude by bringing comfort to people less fortunate than you this holiday season? Use these four ideas as inspiration.
1. Volunteer. Plenty of organizations need “helping hands” in the run-up to the festive season. You can wrap toys for underprivileged children, cook meals in a community kitchen for financially vulnerable families or collect food for Christmas baskets. You’re spoiled for choice when it comes to getting involved in your area!
2. Visit someone in the hospital. Spending Christmas in the hospital is tough. You could bring a little joy to someone in the hospital by visiting them on December 24 or 25. Bring them a greeting card, a few sweets or a gift. Take advantage of your visit to do an ac tivity with them like walking down the hall and chatting, playing cards or watching a Christmas movie.
3. Lend a hand. Do you have a few hours to spare in your busy schedule? Use your free time to spread happiness and gratitude around you. For example, you could show your generosity by clearing snow from an older person’s driveway, helping someone with limited mobility put up
their outdoor decorations or buying groceries for an exhausted caregiver — the possibilities are endless!
4. Invite someone over for Christmas Eve. For various reasons or circumstances, such as divorce, moving, illness and work, someone in your circle may be spending Christmas alone. Whether it’s a family member, neighbor, colleague or friend, open your arms and home to them. Invite them to celebrate Christmas Eve or Day with you. Your hospitality is sure to warm their hearts!
No matter how small, acts of mutual aid and solidarity can make all the difference in making Christmas a happy time for those less fortunate. What kind gestures will you make this year?
Festive Fancies
By the Iola Register staff
Recipe:
Cranberry pistachio fudge
Fudge is a sweet treat that’s synonymous with the holiday season. Will this Christmas-colored version become your new classic?
Ingredients:
Servings: 20
• 1/2 cup pistachios, shelled
• 1 1/2 cups brown sugar
• 1 1/2 cups white sugar
• 1 1/2 cups heavy whipping cream
• 1/2 cup dried cranberries
Directions:
1. In a small skillet, dry roast the pistachios. Once lightly browned, remove the pistachios from the heat and set aside.
2. In a saucepan, combine the brown sugar, white sugar and heavy whipping cream. Bring to a boil.
3. Heat the mixture until it reaches 250° F (use a candy thermometer). Remove the mixture from the heat immediately and allow to cool for 30 minutes.
4. Whip the mixture for three minutes with a hand mixer until smooth and no longer glossy.
5. Add the roasted pistachios and cranberries. Stir gently to incorporate.
6. Pour the mixture into a large rectangular or square baking dish. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least two hours. Cut into 20 pieces and serve on a pretty plate.
