DRAKULA - 1921

Community News: Feb. 27, 2018

Check out upcoming events in the Joliet area, as well as the awesome things people are doing.


Local health events: Feb. 27 through March 6

http://www.theherald-news.com/2018/02/25/local-health-events-feb-27-through-march-6/a32e9y9/

Problem Solving Courts receive generous contribution

Anonymous donor lost loved one to heroin overdose

http://www.theherald-news.com/2018/02/17/problem-solving-courts-receive-generous-contribution/apstp7t/

Longtime Will County Health Dept. employee retires

http://www.theherald-news.com/2018/02/08/longtime-will-county-health-dept-employee-retires/asahqdh/

Morris Hospital gets pulmonary rehabilitation certification

http://www.theherald-news.com/2018/02/26/morris-hospital-gets-pulmonary-rehabilitation-certification/ar9n1i5/

Black HIV infections cut almost in half in Illinois

http://www.theherald-news.com/2018/02/26/black-hiv-infections-cut-almost-in-half-in-illinois/a1bp5gg/

Preventive treatment for peanut allergies succeeds in study

http://www.theherald-news.com/2018/02/20/preventive-treatment-for-peanut-allergies-succeeds-in-study/agejf77/

Joliet Junior College blood drive sees nearly 100 blood donations

http://www.theherald-news.com/2018/02/17/joliet-junior-college-blood-drive-sees-nearly-100-donations/a275j2k/


Girl injured by dog during boarding for Southwest flight

http://www.theherald-news.com/2018/02/25/bc-us-dog-on-plane-1st-ld-writethru/a6zdpq/


And the newsletters:

Sign up for the Will County Go Guide

http://www.theherald-news.com/newsletter/will-county-go-guide/#//

Sign up for the LocalLit Short Story Newsletter

http://www.theherald-news.com/newsletter/locallit/

Sign up for The Munsonville Times

https://www.bryonyseries.com/munsonville-times

Illustration by Matt Coundiff for "Visage." Follow him at www.facebook.com/artbymattcoundiff or @MattCoundiff on Twitter.

I Now Have a Real Bed

So let me explain.

Back in 2007, my husband's sleep apnea and REM sleep behavior disorder was so bad, I began sleeping with a sleeping bag on the floor of my office attic. Rebekah had the bedroom next to it. That eventually led to us becoming bunk mates, which has persisted longer than we anticipated, but everyone is moving forward, so here we are.

Because of the way the roof sloped, a regular bed did not fit, just the box spring and mattress, and we were fine with it. But when we lost our house and could only afford one small storage unit for four people, we made careful decisions on what to take and what to discard. The box springs, being old, didn't make the cut. The mattresses, fairly new, did.

During the nine months we stayed at our mother's, Rebekah and I shared the guest bedroom. It had one bed. I insisted she take it. I slept on the floor. Eventually, we recovered financially enough for the four of us to move into a two-bedroom apartment. We emptied the storage until and brought the mattresses home.

We are now in a two-bedroom townhouse with the same mattresses, which are still in pretty good shape, and Rebekah and I still share a room, at least until the end of this year. Now this post isn't about "woe is us" because we ain't feeling any woe. We are gradually recovering financially; we just make careful financial choices.

No, this post is to brag a bit about my sons, of whom both work two jobs and pay for school.

A few weeks ago, Timothy noticed that the mattress on Daniel's futon was in pretty sad shape. He found a decent one on sale and surprised him with it. This past week, Daniel passed the blessing onto Rebekah and me.

He found two bed frames online ($55 each) that also serve as box springs and bought them. On Saturday, he assembled them and couldn't wait to ask the next morning how Rebekah and I slept.

Of course the response was, "Great!"

For me, the answer is less from the fact that I'm now off the ground (I mean, now I have to worry about falling out of bed, right), which isn't really a big deal to me, and more in the fact that my sons are fine young men.

Nothing makes a parent sleep easier at night than knowing she's sent some pretty good people out into the world.

Community News: Feb. 22, Feb. 23, and Feb. 26 2018

Check out upcoming events in the Joliet area, as well as the awesome things people are doing.

Local faith events: Feb. 22 March 1 

http://www.theherald-news.com/2018/02/18/local-faith-events-feb-22-march-1/ark2p9y/


Local arts and entertainment: Feb. 23 through March 1 

http://www.theherald-news.com/2018/02/18/local-arts-and-entertainment-feb-23-through-march-1/alhbw79/

Gotta Do It: Feb. 25 through March 4

http://www.theherald-news.com/2018/02/18/gotta-do-it-feb-25-through-march-4/awfmn2y/

Local pet events: Feb. 26 through March 5

http://www.theherald-news.com/2018/02/18/local-pet-events-feb-26-through-march-5/a6w1bnz/

Joliet Zonta to hold annual fundraiser March 18

http://www.theherald-news.com/2018/02/22/joliet-zonta-to-hold-annual-fundraiser-march-18/addq1g8/

MYSO spring concerts in Romeoville and Joliet features youth concerto soloists

http://www.theherald-news.com/2018/02/22/myso-spring-concerts-in-romeoville-and-joliet-features-youth-concerto-soloists/afdpbk5/

Video: Joliet Christian Women's Club brings women together each month

http://www.theherald-news.com/2018/02/22/video-joliet-christian-womens-club-brings-women-together-each-month/ar5m3n8/

Lockport cheerleaders compete at IESA state competition 

http://www.theherald-news.com/2018/02/22/lockport-cheerleaders-compete-at-iesa-state-competition/a1lb82/

Plainfield senior performs in state theater fest musical 

http://www.theherald-news.com/2018/02/21/plainfield-senior-performs-in-state-theater-fest-musical/aklpzgn/

Joliet Central, West band directors selected for international fraternity 

http://www.theherald-news.com/lists/2018/02/21/0825bf63b1af495eaabbf9d168823487/index.xml

Dance benefits police department, K-9

http://www.theherald-news.com/2018/02/22/dance-benefits-police-department-k-9/a5hkqz6/

Pets of the Week: Feb. 26

Read the caption of each photo to find out about that pet, including where he or she can be adopted.

http://www.theherald-news.com/lists/2018/02/18/f3dfe45560d74c828640aa43c5f9114e/index.xml


And the newsletters:

Sign up for the Will County Go Guide

http://www.theherald-news.com/newsletter/will-county-go-guide/#//

Sign up for the LocalLit Short Story Newsletter

http://www.theherald-news.com/newsletter/locallit/

Sign up for The Munsonville Times

https://www.bryonyseries.com/munsonville-times

Illustration by Kathleen Rose Van Pelt for "Bryony."

Instead of Social Media

I had a day last Friday and had looked forward, with huge anticipation, to spending a couple days working on my novel.

But first, I had work to finish weekend work on Friday morning. And then a doctor's appointment that stretched into early afternoon. And teaching that night. And then back to the doctor's on Saturday morning for more lab work. And an acting lesson at noon. And dinner with Sue Midlock to talk about art for Cornell Dyer and the Necklace of Forgetfulness and Before the Blood, along with progress of her current novel-in-progress at 5:30 p.m. And more work on Sunday, although I kept that to a minimum (which, I have to admit, is making me a little stressed this morning). And church, where Rebekah and Daniel prepared a lovely brunch for everyone.

All of which are good things. And I had a great time at all these activities. (Including the doctor's appointment because we've been going so long, the staff is a circle good friends).

Not to mention getting a little behind in exercise, enough to make me feel underexercised. so I got back into that, too.

So what's a writer to do with the remaining time? Let the social media go and WRITE!

Which I did.

And I did these other things, too.

Fiction workshop

I love the monthly fiction workshops. I raise a little money for Big Brothers Big Sisters of Will and Grundy Counties (the workshops are by invitation only. Cost is a $10 donation to BBBS), and I love the minutiae of helping other writers refine their writing.

Plus, one of the students has been working on a young adult series for his granddaughter for years and has now written over twelve books for the series. I've really encouraged him to put the books in actual book form (instead of just the manuscripts) and guided him through the steps of free self-publishing.

So he made a goal in January to publish all twelve before the end of the year and send them to his granddaughter for Christmas, his surprise gift to her. He had published the first book through an expensive pay-to-publish company about six years ago and wasn't super-happy with the cover or the editing when he first came to WriteOn Joliet in 2013. But he's worked really hard at his writing since then. The improvement is obvious.

Last month, he was working on the first book. On Thursday, I saw he had four books on Amazon. I couldn't wait to see the actual books. Plus, he brought a guest to the group. so, yes, I had to go. And the books were spread out on the table when I got there. I am currently rereading the first in its re-edited form.

For anyone who is curious, here are the links:

We Were 'posed to Get Married: Emmy's Story, Part 1 (Volume 1): https://goo.gl/3HB6iZ

One Of The Guys: Emmy's Story, Part 2 (Volume 2) https://goo.gl/TTFSRC

A New Friend: Emmy's Story, Part 3 https://goo.gl/HBBdeq

And one unrelated book that spans sixty years:

Growing Up In Kinmundy Junction: https://goo.gl/r4ZW5i

Acting Lessons

For about two and half hours twice a month, I've been meeting with Devon Ford. She's a local actress/director/acting teacher who's probably best known for her many years of teaching children's theater at the Plainfield Public Library and doing some projects with Walt Willey, formerly of All My Children. (https://goo.gl/MfYZm6)

My goal was to improve my delivery when working on reading from my work in public. While I'll never be a professional actress by any means, she's been recording my progress on her iPad (which annoyingly won't share via email or YouTube) so that I can see the results myself.

Working with Devon is kind of like working with an encouraging editor. I sent her a piece I read at WriteOn Joliet's open mic last November along with the links to the two video from that night. She then did a sweeping edit of the piece with stage directions, which we worked on during our first couple meetings.

During each subsequent class, we tackle specific tasks to polish it, which has even given me ideas for editing my writing. For instance, last week, I read only one character at a time so I could better bring that character out of my head, not only through my words, but through my delivery. 

Later, I'm thinking, hmmm, I could use this technique for editing my writing.

Anyway, I'll be reading this piece in front of a different audience and microphone on Wednesday. night. For more information, visit https://www.bryonyseries.com/fetes-and-feasts.

Dinner with Sue Midlock

We had a quiet dinner at a quiet restaurant and lots of fun talking about the childhood games we played and discovering we had a similarity to our approach to play; perhaps artists who liked a similar genre do?

She showed me her sketches for some of the chapter heading art for the second Cornell, and I shared my frustration with coming up with art for Before the Blood. I had random ideas but nothing that was jelling into a vision.

But Sue asked some questions, took some notes, and did some preliminaries on Sunday, which she sent to me. All I can say at this point is that I'm encouraged, and I think she and I are on the right path.

Sue also shared progress on her own story, one that has elements of some favorite stories of my childhood. I'm intrigued and curious.

Writing

I spent Friday afternoon, a couple hours Saturday morning, a couple hours Saturday afternoon, and a couple hours Sunday working on Before the Blood. Less than I hoped, but I learned these bits of writing in fits and stops might be a good approach for this novel.

Why is this?

1) Inspiration has been slow to awaken. I think that's because the story is winding down. Ideas are not thin (the whole thing has been outlined since 2011), and I've not lost interest, but I think since the entire project is nearing its end, I'm experiencing a natural dropping off that's part of anything in life when the culmination is near. It's a different pace. Instead of fighting it, I should flow with it.

2) I didn't spend enough time in the gap, the part between two novels that won't make the novel. So I'm letting that simmer in the back of my mind.

3) As I reread what I've written, I'm seeing that focusing on individual scenes out of order equals better productivity for this book. This approach is similar to the way I wrote Bryony. The rest of the books were written in order. I wrote Bryony in pieces, which eventually merged together. In this final novel of Before the Blood, I've already merged the scenes, so it's more like coloring by number.

4) Just because I can't see or "feel" the progress, doesn't mean it's there. Again, as I go back and reread, I'm discovering parts that are better than I thought. For instance, most of the last chapter is written. In my mind, I remembered it needing lots of work. I forgot how much I've actually rewritten already. It actually needs very little touch-up.

5) I, unfortunately, did not write the next chapter of Cornell. But that's OK.  I wasn't happy with its original direction and didn't devise a better way until I took a walk last night. So I'm in good shape for Saturday.

Why so much information?

Because as I review the last three days, I find a very satisfying mix of activities, far better than if I'd spent the entire three days writing. I am ready, really ready, for the coming week, and not wishing I had ONE MORE DAY OFF, which so often happens when I have some time off, which is silly because I love my job, including the social media parts.

So since my goal for Lent was to complain less (http://maureenblevins.blogspot.com/2018/02/positively-lenten-eve.html), perhaps that will come as I strive for more balance of the different parts of my life, thank you, Walter Bernadyn. :)

And there you have it, readers, writers, and vampire fans: the Monday morning back to work view.

And I have a cup of dark roast coffee in hand. It's a good day. :)

Story Round-Up: Features in The Herald-News, Feb. 18 through Feb. 23

So I'm technically off for President's Day today ( anew paid holiday the ocmpany is giving us, but I worked it as the holiday editor), and with a number of projects already scheduled today, I'm taking a BryonySeries social media break for the weekend to get some writing done.

I'll post the blog and a "good morning" coffee, but that will probably be it until Monday.

Whatever your plans are for the next few days, I hope they are full of blessings, for you and all you encounter.

Take care! :)

Non-bylined features:

Monday through Saturday I assembled my non-bylined works - brief posts and calendar listings - into one convenient file and posting them on Facebook in the evening, so readers can easily choose the ones they want to read.

One can also find those event listings, the Gotta Do It calendar, as well as the pets, health, faith, and arts and entertainment calendars, under the sections tab on the left hand side of http://www.theherald-news.com/. Click on "features" and the topics drop down.  Gotta Do It runs under "people."

Community news? Again, under the sections tab, under features, and by topic. Updates are posted on these days in print and web (and some only on web on other days as I have the time): Monday (pets), Tuesday (health), Thursday (faith), Friday (arts and entertainment), and Sunday (people).

Social media:

Daily updates: I do post the briefs and calendars on Twitter during the week, so you're welcome to follow me at @Denise_Unland61.

BryonySeries stuff: I post curated content relating to the BryonySeries at @BryonySeries. And assorted related content at www.facebook.com/BryonySeries. And of course, please follow the adventures of Bertrand the Mouse on Instagram at bertrand_bryonyseries.

If you're a writer anywhere in the world, you're welcome to jon WriteOn Joliet's Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/groups/writeonminooka/?ref=bookmarks. We're based in Joliet, Illinois, but we love to meet and interact with writers outside our area, too.

Books and Such

Information on my books (including where to buy) is at www.bryonyseries.com. 

Thank you for reading The Herald-News. And for reading this blog. And if you've read (or plan to read) any of my books. Your support is greatly appreciated.

Telling trinkets from treasure

Joliet woman knows how

Janet Madrigal is an accredited member of the International Society of Appraisers and the owner of 

"Attic to Appraisals." Her website at www.attictoappraisals.com says Madrigal offers a range of services, including gem identification and litigation support.

"My reports and findings can stand up in a court of law," Madrigal said in an email. "We have to write to a certain standard as well as adhere to those standards."

http://www.theherald-news.com/lists/2018/02/16/fff84403cfa749cda568ded787c43a03/index.xml

Joliet’s Book and Bean Café to host storytelling

During “True Story” on Feb. 22, half a dozen storytellers took turns sharing a true personal account from their lives to attendees.

http://www.theherald-news.com/2018/02/15/joliets-book-and-bean-cafe-to-host-storytelling/a4a8xl7/

An Extraordinary Life: 'He always had a desire to help people'

Long before Derek Hogg was fighting fires, he was serving others.

http://www.theherald-news.com/lists/2018/02/16/afc5a869393d4f339ae4c981089fca9e/index.xml?page=1


Mystery Diner: Joliet's Traditions Restaurant and Pub goes from quiet to festive in minutes

When you head to Traditions Restaurant and Pub at the Inwood complex off Jefferson Street in Joliet, you never know how full it's going to be.

http://www.theherald-news.com/lists/2018/02/17/33b5c368db2849e78e80c6f28864dc28/index.xml

Joliet nondenominational group brings women together each month

The main speaker – the one who left strongest impression with this group of Christian women – was Cathy Harvey of Lindenhurst. An inspirational speaker who is writing her first book, Harvey spoke about her struggle with depression as a teen – to the point of contemplating suicide – and how she came to know Christ and find her purpose in life.

http://www.theherald-news.com/lists/2018/02/21/c69cbe7596c64e088e879b438c967ea2/index.xml

Video: Joliet Christian Women's Club brings women together each month

http://www.theherald-news.com/2018/02/22/video-joliet-christian-womens-club-brings-women-together-each-month/ar5m3n8/

New free newsletter connects Joliet-area readers and writers

LocalLit is a free newsletter that delivers a free short story by a local author to anyone who’s signed up for it. It’s a great way for readers to discover new writers, and it’s a great way for writers to reach new readers.

As a reader and writer, I would sign up immediately if I wasn’t launching it. Here’s why it appeals to me.

http://www.theherald-news.com/lists/2018/02/21/9fafc7b5dcdb4d56b110b1ca8bb3baa3/index.xml?page=1

Artworks: Good clean fun

Joliet woman turns soap-making hobby into business

Sue Hovanes said her skin is sensitive to “big-box soaps,” with many of them, except ivory, turning her skin quite dry. But Hovanes also missed indulging in other scents, which led her to learn the craft of soap making, where she can control the ingredients.

Running a business was not part of her plan, until news of her hobby spread.

http://www.theherald-news.com/lists/2018/02/21/e84adcdd393a4be8bc6059ad82c73de0/index.xml?page=1

Illustration by Matt Coundiff for Visage." Follow him at www.facebook.com/artbymattcoundiff or @MattCoundiff on Twitter.

BryonySeries Throwback Thursday: World's Weirdest - Vampire Bats

Wednesday, September 28, 2016

World's Weirdest - Vampire Bats

Community News: Feb. 21, 2018

Check out upcoming events in the Joliet area, as well as the awesome things people are doing.


Need help? Want to help? Here’s a roundup of area food pantries and upcoming events

http://www.theherald-news.com/2018/02/13/need-help-want-to-help-heres-a-roundup-of-area-food-pantries-and-upcoming-events/ak4xa9u/

Learn 'How to Save for College' on March 15 in Romeoville

http://www.theherald-news.com/2018/02/21/learn-how-to-save-for-college-on-march-15-in-romeoville/asaduis/

Career Fair today at AMITA Health Adventist Medical Center Bolingbrook

http://www.theherald-news.com/2018/02/21/career-fair-at-amita-health-adventist-medical-center-bolingbrook/ab52976/

Presence to join Amita Health

http://www.theherald-news.com/2018/02/21/presence-to-join-amita-health/a7cgvrd/

Improv Comedy Night at The HOPE Center in Bolingbrook

http://www.theherald-news.com/2018/02/21/improv-comedy-night-at-the-hope-center-in-bolingbrook/afjfhun/

Plainfield Fire Protection District offers tips for snow and ice safety

http://www.theherald-news.com/2018/02/21/plainfield-fire-protection-district-offers-tips-for-snow-and-ice-safety/a59zeij/

Plainfield school to host concert March 1

http://www.theherald-news.com/2018/02/21/plainfield-school-to-host-concert-march-1/ag8x8ka/

Plus, check out my free newsletters:

Sign up for the Will County Go Guide

http://www.theherald-news.com/newsletter/will-county-go-guide/#//

Sign up for the LocalLit Short Story Newsletter

http://www.theherald-news.com/newsletter/locallit/

Sign up for The Munsonville Times

https://www.bryonyseries.com/munsonville-times

Illustration by Kathleen Rose Van Pelt for "Bryony."

Interview with Dr. Vince Gutierrez

Last Saturday, Joliet physical therapist Dr. Vince Gutierrez gave me the honor of being interviewed on his series "People You Should Know: Joliet Edition."

For those unfamiliar with the series, the mission is to create camaraderie among residents and visitors of the Joliet area by highlighting those in Joliet that people should know, according to its Facebook page.

Vince asked thoughtful questions, and I did my best to answer. It's not often I'm on the other end of the interview, so I appreciated the opportunity.

The video is long (30 minutes or so), but in case you're interested, I'm including the link,

https://www.facebook.com/vincegutierrezgoodlifePT/videos/272405656627330/

Community News: Feb. 20, 2018

Check out upcoming events in the Joliet area, as well as the awesome things people are doing.

Local health events: Feb. 20 through Feb. 27 

http://www.theherald-news.com/2018/02/18/local-health-events-feb-20-through-feb-27/ak0yajd/

Will County Health Department dental van brings care to kids

http://www.theherald-news.com/lists/2018/02/17/e3d4ddbae2b84249927851ce0afb6c35/index.xml

Silver Cross Hospital employees awarded scholarships

http://www.theherald-news.com/2018/02/17/silver-cross-hospital-employees-awarded-scholarships/a4qkl4k/

Midland States Bank gives $10,000 grant to Will-Grundy Medical Clinic

http://www.theherald-news.com/2018/02/17/midland-states-bank-gives-10-000-grant-to-will-grundy-medical-clinic/abbe1un/

Lincoln-Way Foundation donates more than $100K to District 210 schools 

http://www.theherald-news.com/2018/02/15/lincoln-way-foundation-donates-more-than-100k-to-district-210-schools/agsf97w/

Minooka youth wins America Recycles Day photo contest 

http://www.theherald-news.com/2018/02/15/minooka-youth-wins-america-recycles-day-photo-contest/auagw8h/

Plus, check out my free newsletters:

Sign up for the Will County Go Guide

http://www.theherald-news.com/newsletter/will-county-go-guide/#//

Sign up for the LocalLit Short Story Newsletter

http://www.theherald-news.com/newsletter/locallit/

Sign up for The Munsonville Times

https://www.bryonyseries.com/munsonville-times

Illustration by Matt Coundiff for "Visage." Follow him at www.facebook.com/artbymattcoundiff or @MattCoundiff on Twitter.

What Happened to Bertrand...

...on Calkins Day?

Because he was suspiciously absent.

Well, not really. But here's what happened.

As soon we pulled up to Book and Bean, I realized I'd made a horrible mistake. I had forgotten Bertrand. He was at home in my lunch box.

My son Timothy, ever gallant, offered to drive back to fetch him. I did not ask Timothy to do this. Again, I did not ask him to do this. Just so we're clear on this point.

But I was happy he offered. How horrible if Bertrand had missed his chance for a photo with the real Steward of Tara!

Fifteen minutes later Timothy calls. He can't find Bertrand. So I check my coat pockets. Ooops! I had moved Bertrand earlier. I had him. Sorry. :(

When the festivities had ended, and we had returned home, I realized I hadn't taken Bertrand's photo with the steward.

Now some might say I had forgotten all about it. But I say this.

Bertrand was so afraid of the ruthless dictator, he hid in my coat pocket all night. See? Here's the proof.

And this is the last bit of posting I'll eek out from Calkins Day.

Enjoy the day readers, writers, and vampire fans! :)

Community News: Feb. 19, 2018

Check out upcoming events in the Joliet area, as well as the awesome things people are doing.

Gotta Do It: Feb. 18 through Feb. 25

http://www.theherald-news.com/2018/02/12/gotta-do-it-feb-18-through-feb-25/a3uw3vg/

Local pet events: Feb. 19 through Feb. 26

http://www.theherald-news.com/2018/02/17/local-pet-events-feb-19-through-feb-26/abbij2x/

Pets of the Week: Feb. 19

http://www.theherald-news.com/lists/2018/02/17/9a2e3dc986ba4b40be5830142bc656d0/index.xml

Joliet teacher named Golden Apple finalist

http://www.theherald-news.com/lists/2018/02/15/238f7ba5870e46cebc245cc99a048b0b/index.xml

VVSD names superintendent of human resources

http://www.theherald-news.com/2018/02/15/vvsd-names-superintendent-of-human-resources/af4boic/

Plus, check out my free newsletters:

Sign up for the Will County Go Guide

http://www.theherald-news.com/newsletter/will-county-go-guide/#//

Sign up for the LocalLit Short Story Newsletter

http://www.theherald-news.com/newsletter/locallit/

Sign up for The Munsonville Times

https://www.bryonyseries.com/munsonville-times

Illustration by Kathleen Rose Van Pelt for "Bryony."

Calkins Day 2018: A Few Photos

In case you missed it (and even if you didn't), here are a few photos from the Calkins Day Book Signing (Feb. 13) at Book and Bean Cafe in Joliet.

Nos. five (ruthless pose), six (ruthlessly glancing at MOMI's coffee), and seven (composing a ruthless limerick) are especially noteworthy.

Community News: Feb. 15, Feb. 16, and Feb. 17, 2018

WriteOn Joliet meeting Thursday night, internet interruptions at the house on Friday morning (and through Saturday), and working late Friday night meant no chance to post this (or to engage in much social media).

That said, check out upcoming events in the Joliet area, as well as the awesome things people are doing.

Local faith events: Feb. 15 through Feb. 22

http://www.theherald-news.com/2018/02/12/local-faith-events-feb-15-through-feb-22/a8n5vth/


Local arts and entertainment: Feb. 16 through Feb. 23

http://www.theherald-news.com/2018/02/12/local-arts-and-entertainment-feb-16-through-feb-23/acvcbpv/

Lockport students take virtual field trips

http://www.theherald-news.com/lists/2018/02/14/b5b4f5af09ef40a8becb7e38029d24a2/index.xml?page=1

Joliet school announces spelling bee winners

http://www.theherald-news.com/lists/2018/02/14/54953bd84cbf43d1a0b4f410954a1b24/index.xml

Students at Shorewood school named top winners at ACSI Spelling Bee 

http://www.theherald-news.com/lists/2018/02/14/da744f1ee2174fa3ae2650c05502e963/index.xml


Author visits Bolingbrook students

http://www.theherald-news.com/2018/01/21/author-visits-bolingbrook-students/a1g7o5o/

Bolingbrook students learn about record players

http://www.theherald-news.com/2018/01/21/bolingbrook-students-learn-about-record-players/abbbev6/

Romeoville students check out the library

http://www.theherald-news.com/2018/01/21/romeoville-students-check-out-the-library/a55g14m/

Great Moments in Vinyl plays The Rolling Stones on Feb. 23 in Joliet

http://www.theherald-news.com/2018/02/12/great-moments-in-vinyl-plays-the-rolling-stones-on-feb-23-in-joliet/ahzva8j/

28th Annual Spring Craft Fair is Feb. 24

http://www.theherald-news.com/2018/02/12/28th-annual-spring-craft-fair-is-feb-24-in-minooka/abnd80e/

Cheery snowman greets Troy students

http://www.theherald-news.com/2018/02/15/cheery-snowman-greets-troy-students/a9twne5/

Illinois American Water warns customers of utility imposters

http://www.theherald-news.com/2018/02/12/illinois-american-water-warns-customers-of-utility-imposters/atbimif/

Accreditation at Romeoville facility reinforces excellence among senior living providers  

http://www.theherald-news.com/2018/02/12/accreditation-at-romeoville-facility-reinforces-excellence-among-senior-living-providers/a9b3q1r/

Plainfield Fire Protection District: Working smoke alarms save lives 

http://www.theherald-news.com/2018/02/12/plainfield-fire-protection-district-working-smoke-alarms-save-lives/ayj0rdj/

Try your hand at watercolor on Feb. 21 in Homer Glen 

http://www.theherald-news.com/2018/02/12/try-your-hand-at-watercolor-on-feb-21-in-homer-glen/a5pkje2/

Illustration by Kathleen Rose Van Pelt for "Bryony."

Sue's Diner: Meatloaf by Janet Cooney

In Bryony, Melissa and Brian are stunned when their mother announces they will be traveling to Detroit for their grandmother’s memorial service. 

Brian, however, is more astonished at Melissa’s increased appetite, especially when she asks for extra helpings of this extra-special meatloaf.

Find the recipe HERE. 

From "Memories in the Kitchen: Bites and Nibbles From 'Bryony'"

All proceeds benefit Big Brothers Big Sisters of Will and Grundy Counties. www.bbbswillgrundy.org.

Order the cookbook at www.bryonyseries.com.

Calkins Day 2018

Story Round-Up: Features in The Herald-News, Feb. 11 through Feb. 16

Well.

It's been a week of celebrations and surprises.

Last night at WriteOn Joliet, one member brought her little granddaughter, who loves to read and write book reports. She has a copy of Bertrand and the Christmas Surprise, of which she report a little report and drew his picture. Needless to say, Bertrand was thrilled! I'll share her work in a post next week.

Tuesday night's Calkins Day event was successful, at least by my standards. THANK YOU to everyone who came out and supported Ed: by their presence, their support, and buy books for him to sign. Recap also follows next week.

Victorian fans, here's one you'll like: Another member of WriteOn Joliet presented me with a silver bag (silver for moonlight, prefer to silver to god; how did she know???) full of 19th century "thises and thats." Post and photos next week!

A number of events are coming up in the next couple of months. For details, visit www.bryonyseries.com/fetes-and-feasts.

Of course, the burning question is whether or not I will be writing fiction tomorrow. The answer is yes, but after and between three other things: dentist appointment, acting lesson, and an interview (with me being interviewed, bit of a role reversal. I'll post a link). Oh and a a few errands...with one of them being coffee, I'm certain.

And now, onward to this week's feature stories and where to find me and other features information.

Non-bylined features:

Monday through Saturday I assembled my non-bylined works - brief posts and calendar listings - into one convenient file and posting them on Facebook in the evening, so readers can easily choose the ones they want to read.

One can also find those event listings, the Gotta Do It calendar, as well as the pets, health, faith, and arts and entertainment calendars, under the sections tab on the left hand side of http://www.theherald-news.com/. Click on "features" and the topics drop down.  Gotta Do It runs under "people."

Community news? Again, under the sections tab, under features, and by topic. Updates are posted on these days in print and web (and some only on web on other days as I have the time): Monday (pets), Tuesday (health), Thursday (faith), Friday (arts and entertainment), and Sunday (people).

Social media:

Daily updates: I do post the briefs and calendars on Twitter during the week, so you're welcome to follow me at @Denise_Unland61.

BryonySeries stuff: I post curated content relating to the BryonySeries at @BryonySeries. And assorted related content at www.facebook.com/BryonySeries. And of course, please follow the adventures of Bertrand the Mouse on Instagram at bertrand_bryonyseries.

If you're a writer anywhere in the world, you're welcome to jon WriteOn Joliet's Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/groups/writeonminooka/?ref=bookmarks. We're based in Joliet, Illinois, but we love to meet and interact with writers outside our area, too.

Books and Such

Information on my books (including where to buy) is at www.bryonyseries.com. 

Thank you for reading The Herald-News. And for reading this blog. And if you've read (or plan to read) any of my books. Your support is greatly appreciated.

Celebrating 10 years of hugs and wishes 
Shorewood HUGS 9th annual chocolate ball was 'quite the celebration'

"The attention to detail in the decor was outstanding," Sarah Dilg, projects and events manager at The Herald-News, said. "From the pearls holding the tags on the champagne bottles to the Tiffany boxes and diamonds placed throughout the room. It was absolutely beautiful. Oh, and the chocolate. Of course the chocolate was my favorite part."

http://www.theherald-news.com/lists/2018/02/09/9910563abcc946b0a6a1b182656c3c8b/index.xml?page=1


Joliet Job Corps students help local nonprofits

For the last several months these students, who are age 16 to 24, are spending two weeks sharing their skills at local nonprofits.

http://www.theherald-news.com/2018/02/08/joliet-job-corps-students-help-local-nonprofits/altzbq/

An Extraordinary Life: "She just really cared about her students"

“I think the thing that speaks most loudly about Arlyne’s life is the fact that, in death, there are probably thousands of people that are speaking about her influence on their lives,” Brett Margaron of Florida, a former student, said.

http://www.theherald-news.com/2018/02/07/she-just-really-cared-about-her-students/ax2r9bg/

Mystery Diner: Plainfield's Volar Mexican restaurant features quality food and quiet atmosphere

As I looked through the menu, the server brought out chips and a salsa verde along with a cup of what seemed to be fermented salsa with chunky vegetables.

Both were outstanding and got us started right before the main course arrived.

http://www.theherald-news.com/lists/2018/02/13/02318f973ea64c1da6fc0673f97426d4/index.xml?page=1

Lent: A time for plaster, candles and no complaining

One blogger who posted in Joliet Connect the other day (Joliet Connect is The Herald-News Facebook group) thought she might give up complaining for the next 40 days. The minute I read that, I became acutely aware of how much complaining I actually do.

http://www.theherald-news.com/2018/02/14/lent-a-time-for-plaster-candles-and-no-complaining/ao7g1ez/

Rediscovering 'the magic of reading'

Month-long reading event spans Joliet area communities

Many libraries hosting events in honor of the 50th anniversary of the assassination of Martin Luther King Jr. 

http://www.theherald-news.com/lists/2018/02/15/289c6aaf877249ae9fc2f0db9a3f0dfa/index.xml

Artwork: Channahon arts center gives kids options

"I believe if you have the desire to learn, you should at least give it a try. It's about dedication and putting in the work," Steev Custer, owner said, about music lessons for kids and adults.

http://www.theherald-news.com/lists/2018/02/15/0ec025572b934ce3bb17228047a068e1/index.xml

Illustration by Matt Coundiff for "Visage." Follow him at www.facebook.com/artbymattcoundiff or @MattCoundiff on Twitter.

BryonySeries Throwback Thursdays: Vampires vs Leprechauns Teaser Concept Art Designs

Vampires vs Leprechauns Teaser Concept Art Designs