Reviews by Ballen88

Ballen88 says "A good read" about Illinois Times

Ballen88 — Sat, 17 Nov 2007 15:59:44 GMT

I've been a reader of the Illinois Times for over a year now and I have to say it's one of the best local papers I've ever read. It's been published since 1975, and it encompasses everything that I stand for.

Their mission is to inform, educate and entertain our readers. To raise the level of discourse and broaden the depth of knowledge about issues that effect the quality of life in our region of Illinois.

To me, that says it all. Whether you are looking for the cool places to hang out this weekend, looking for a fresh take on political issues or what's hot in government or just looking for some interesting reading, Illinois Times is the place to be.

Check out their website at www.illinoistimes.com and enjoy!

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Ballen88 says "Roasted to perfection, perks me up every morning." about Papa Nicholas French Roast

Ballen88 — Sat, 17 Nov 2007 15:51:39 GMT

This coffee is the BEST coffee I've ever drank. It's made by Papa Nicholas company out of Batavia, IL. Although a huge fan of all the varieties, I am most fond of the Dark French Roast. It's somewhat lighter than their Italian Roast but still gets me perked up in the morning! I like that it comes in either ground or whole bean and the packaging is great. The price is also great too. At around $6 for a 11 oz bag, it compares to the big guys but offers so much more.

I found them originally in my local Schnuck's grocery store. I did a google search for them and found their website and so many more options. They are quick to ship and it's really fresh.

I encourage any coffee connoisseur to give them a try. It's worth every drink.

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Ballen88 says "The price won't crack your wallet" about Trader Joe's Black Peppercorns

Ballen88 — Sat, 17 Nov 2007 15:28:01 GMT

This is one of the most inexpensive quality products in my cabinet. I love Trader Joe's Black Peppercorns. Although the container can be a challenge with it's lid that doesn't stay screwed on tightly to the grinder wearing out, it's well worth the price. At under $2, the flavor of the fresh black pepper will have you going back for more. I live 92 miles from the closest Trader Joe's but at least once a month I am there for my staples.

I highly recommend this product to anyone looking for fresh ground black pepper. It's worth the cheap grinder!

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Ballen88 says "Pampered Chef's Food Chopper Cuts the Competition" about Pampered Chef Cutting Edge Food Chopper

Ballen88 — Sat, 17 Nov 2007 15:12:24 GMT

Outstanding, versatile, easy to use, all describe the Pampered Chef Food Chopper. As a staple product in my kitchen, I appreciate the ease of use and consistent quality I receive when I use the food chopper. The blades chop anything I need in seconds. Onions are no longer something to cry over, with the food chopper I'm done and have them in the bowl in seconds. It's handier than a food processor and sits in my tool turn about for handy use. I love this product - it's better than any of the competitor products I've looked at. Way to go Pampered Chef - you are saving me time and money with your food chopper....

Ballen88 says "Wolfgang's Rice Cooker Makes me Steamy" about Wolfgang Puck Rice cooker - steamer 10 cup

Ballen88 — Sat, 17 Nov 2007 14:42:31 GMT

Wolfgang has hit the mark as usual with his 10 cup rice cooker/steamer. The product is more that it's expected to be since it does so much more than cook rice. Weather it's cooking up some macaroni & cheese or baking a lava cake, this product does it all very well. Be careful, however, if the cooker is overfilled, a big mess is likely. Other than that, it's a great product that is easy to clean, store and use. This is one of the best rice cookers that I've ever used. Outstanding product that definitely lives up to the Wolfgang Puck name. ...