Saturday, August 31, 2019

Ed Calkins Updates His Progress on His First Novel

Dear MOMI: 

You've suggested that I should just write it.

Which I'm trying to do.

But it's taken me to a strange place where I'm writing about my own funeral. My self indulgence is almost criminal.

If I ever get over my own importance, I'll send you what I have thus far. You have created the vampire, but I'm creating a monster.

It is a back story I want to write, but I've already started a third and fourth chap, and I've yet to start that back story I so crave. I may need your censorship later, but for now, I'll continue.


Ruthlessly yours, 

Ed Calkins,
Steward of Tara







Friday, August 30, 2019

Catching Up and Progressing

Just one story to share this week, and I'm not the writer.

Rachel Barks, who interned at The Herald-News this summer, finished this story on our last day of her - hers as an intern and mine before I caught a plane to Raleigh.

She did a great job, and the cause is a worthy one. I've posted it at the bottom of this blog.

This past week has been one of catching up and moving forward with new stories.

On the features side of things, my day is full of interviews, starting at noon and continuing through the evening. I'm also meeting with a group of teens who are creating a newspaper and are looking for practical guidance.

Plus, we are heading into a holiday weekend, so I've got some extra work on that front, too. Bring on the coffee!

Also on the features side of things, but as an independent project, I'm ghostwriting the memoir of a Joliet woman. I've neglected that project the last couple of weeks, but with new ones coming up through the ranks, I hope to finish a draft for her to read this weekend.

I'm also reading through an edgy (and extremely well-written) novel I'm editing for a local author and hope to finish the first reading this weekend, too, as I have at least three more intriguing editing projects this fall as well.

On the creative side of things, a solid structure for my werewolf story (Lycanthropic Summer) is nicely taking shape. I did a lot of mental writing in Raleigh during my alone times at Falls Lake. I did bring some excerpts to WriteOn Joliet two weeks ago, but we ran out of time before I shared them. But there's always next time (or the time after that).

At times, ideas come very quickly, but always at the wrong time, like when I'm falling asleep or on deadline. Why do these type of thoughts, so strong when they arrive, fade to wisps when I have time to write them down?

Timothy has also outlined Cornell Dyer and the Flu, so I need to tackle that soon. Just not not this weekend. Cornell Dyer and the Never Robbers was released while I was in Raleigh.

He's also designed a new BryonySeries card. The former "drop of blood" card that's perfect for the original trilogy isn't going out of print - Timothy is calling it the "legacy" card.

But this new card will be more representative of all the books in the BryonySeries (the "drop of blood" trilogy, the Before the Blood prequel, the Adventures of Cornell Dyer chapter book series, the Bertrand the Mouse children's book series, the cookbooks, the Limbo series (in slow progress), and the standalones (Emporium Orphans and Lycanthropic Summer).

The card is very attractive, and I can't wait to see more than a concept in his computer.

In addition to that, Rebekah and I have a checklist of chores we need to complete in preparation for VampCon Chicago next month.

And Colleen Robbins is done with the copyedits for WriteOn Joliet's third annual anthology, which she'll hand off to me at WriteOn Joliet's next meeting on Sept. 5 at the Joliet Public Library, Black Road branch.

Below is Rachel's story, and below that are websites and social media sites for connecting with The Herald-News and the BryonySeries (including Bertrand the Mouse).

Have a great Friday and long weekend!


The search for a donor and a cure
A Plainfield teen with severe aplastic anemia is hopeful for both
By Rachel Barks

Aplastic anemia is a condition that results when the body stops producing enough new blood cells.

This can cause severe fatigue and a weakened immune system with a high risk of infection and uncontrolled bleeding. The only cure for aplastic anemia is a blood stem cell transplant from a matched donor.


"It changed everything about my life, changed how I think, changed my personality; it changed everything," Gardner said.

https://www.theherald-news.com/lists/2019/08/16/0ed15a97aa26424b92a272644889715e/index.xml


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): 

 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.

Upcoming events:

Once Timothy Baran is done updating this page, these will listed here: https://www.bryonyseries.com/fetes-and-feasts.

Check out the progress he has made so far. Each square is hand-built. And be sure to "hover" your hand over the first square. Note: this only works (so far) with the desktop version.

But he's also made A LOT of changes to the website. So be sure to roam around a bit.

Books and Such

Information on my books (including where to buy) along with upcoming events is at www.bryonyseries.com. Again, Timothy is in the process of updating the website, so all titles may not appear. If you have any questions, email me at bryonyseries@gmail.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.



Illustration by Christopher Gleason for "Staked!" Follow him at artworkbytopher.com.

Thursday, August 29, 2019

Community News: Aug. 29, 2019

Check out upcoming events and the awesome things people are doing.

If you live within the Herald-News' coverage area (most of Will and Grundy counties in Illinois), and you'd like to share your organization's news or upcoming events, email the information to new@theherald-news.com.


Plainfield Giving Gala donates to local food pantries and other charities 

https://www.theherald-news.com/2019/08/10/plainfield-giving-gala-donates-to-local-food-pantries-and-other-charities/apjpnvc/


Unpossible Mead hosted grand opening in Dwight

https://www.theherald-news.com/2019/08/10/unpossible-mead-hosted-grand-opening-in-dwight/aq540as/


4th Annual Pints and Pork Challenge is set for Sept. 28

https://www.theherald-news.com/2019/08/28/4th-annual-pints-and-pork-challenge-is-set-for-sept-28/ak8f0w8/


Food waste is hard to combat in certain settings
Food waste-education has limited efficacy, expert says

https://www.theherald-news.com/2019/08/10/food-waste-is-hard-to-combat-in-certain-settings/asorbhi/


Winners for Frankfort rib cook-off announced

https://www.theherald-news.com/2019/08/10/winners-for-frankfort-rib-cook-off-announced/awyzovf/


JTHS Transportation Center honors retiring district leader David Gray 

https://www.theherald-news.com/2019/08/01/jths-transportation-center-honors-retiring-district-leader-david-gray/ap635ax/


Around Town: Big Brothers Big Sisters of Will and Grundy Counties 

https://www.theherald-news.com/2019/08/14/around-town-big-brothers-big-sisters-of-will-and-grundy-counties/a1m03x2/


Joliet Central Class of 1969 to host 50th reunion 

https://www.theherald-news.com/2019/08/14/joliet-central-class-of-1969-to-host-50th-reunion/akvnhkw/


Joliet Junior College students earn dean's list for spring 2019 

https://www.theherald-news.com/2019/08/13/joliet-junior-college-students-earn-deans-list-for-spring-2019/a6jwq7q/


Romeoville High School visit homes of high-scoring AP students

https://www.theherald-news.com/2019/08/13/romeoville-high-school-visit-homes-of-high-scoring-ap-students/arb90fl/


Joliet junior high students earn Angel Investor Awards 

https://www.theherald-news.com/lists/2019/08/14/c41aa2c2d7474191ba77eacb1463c781/index.xml?page=1


Joliet Central High School students study spaceflight

https://www.theherald-news.com/lists/2019/08/01/fbbf80fdf3fb4259801cbae19aea5571/index.xml


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

Illustration by Matt Coundiff for "Memories in the Kitchen: Bites and Nibbles from "Bryony." 


BryonySeries Throwback Thursday: Newspaper Jokes for Timothy's 17th Birthday

Newspaper Jokes for Timothy's 17th Birthday


Along with the discarded novella version of Bryony, the jokes below were part of the birthday package.

Yes, I know number four is missing, deleted on purpose, a bit insulting (aka Ed Calkins), not fit for print. 

Anyway, these are just another example of my re-entry into creativity after many decades, before I went completely to the dark side. ;)


1)      Q: On Sunday, why did Timothy stuff more papers than anyone else?
             A: He was on a roll.


2)      Knock. Knock.
Who’s there?
Sun Times.
Sun Times who?
Sun Times I just don’t want to deliver papers.


3)      Q: Why did the daily bags not mind papers being stuffed into them?
A: They were hooked.


5)      Q: Why did Ron get old fast by delivering papers?
       A: Because he worked for man-agers.


6)      Q: What kind of bags are good to eat?
A: Sundae bags.


7)      Q: What kind of a raft will not keep one from downing?
A: A paper buoy.


8)      Q: When business got bad for the newspaper company, what did it do?
A: It folded.

Illustration by Matt Coundiff for "Visage." Follow him at facebook.com/artbymattcoundiff

Wednesday, August 28, 2019

Community News: Aug. 28

Check out the awesome things people are doing.

If you live within the Herald-News' coverage area (most of Will and Grundy counties in Illinois), and you'd like to share your organization's news or upcoming events, email the information to new@theherald-news.com.



Joliet Junior College students earn dean's list for spring 2019

https://www.theherald-news.com/2019/08/05/joliet-junior-college-sttudents-earn-deans-list-for-spring-2019/a1u3rak/


Will County’s annual book event ‘hits both of our goals'

https://www.theherald-news.com/2019/08/27/will-countys-annual-book-event-hits-both-of-our-goals/a8kv90a/


Plainfield teachers complete professional development program

https://www.theherald-news.com/2019/08/07/plainfield-teachers-complete-professional-development-program/a5w9svo/


Local students earn dean's list for spring 2019

https://www.theherald-news.com/2019/06/12/local-students-earn-deans-list-for-spring-2019/axjiyor/


Pets of the Week: Aug. 18

https://www.theherald-news.com/lists/2019/08/05/6bd82c8d509648ea90982769e951944c/index.xml


Plainfield Parks offering dog photo contest

https://www.theherald-news.com/2019/08/16/plainfield-parks-offering-dog-photo-contest/aqae8z5/


Pets of the Week: Aug. 25

https://www.theherald-news.com/lists/2019/08/22/48082aee6812484589a376a7231a9920/index.xml


Frankfort students learn about penguins

https://www.theherald-news.com/2019/08/13/frankfort-students-learn-about-penguins/axbiq77/


Joliet Central alumnus using his passion for education, leadership and technology

https://www.theherald-news.com/2019/08/13/joliet-central-alumus-using-his-passion-for-education-leadership-and-technology/a9ap7g7/


Joliet students compete at District 86 STEM event

https://www.theherald-news.com/2019/08/13/joliet-students-compete-at-district-86-stem-event/aqgmzc8/


Students at Washington Junior High in #Joliet win math competition

https://www.theherald-news.com/2019/08/13/students-at-washington-junior-high-in-joliet-win-math-competition/aq03c5o/


Teresa Gibson closes 10th year as principal 

https://www.theherald-news.com/2019/08/01/teresa-gibson-closes-10th-year-as-principal/aqbkei8/


Plainfield students excel in languages

https://www.theherald-news.com/2019/08/01/plainfield-students-excel-in-languages/al4hf7v/


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


Illustration by Matt Coundiff for "Visage." Follow him at facebook.com/artbymattcoundiff 

Imagery over "Jump Scares"

One of the elements that separates Gothic fiction from modern horror writing is the focus on shadowy imagery instead of jump scares.

Early silent films, which had no CGI or sophisticated technology, used this well, as this YouTube clip shows: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vxFVHQTqMRg

One modern film that did an outstanding job of imagery is The Autopsy of Jane Doe. It's been several weeks since I watched it with Daniel, and remnants of impressions have clung to me ever since. 

If you haven't seen it, here's a trailer: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mtTAhXuiRTc

Tuesday, August 27, 2019

Catching Up With Community News

Check out upcoming events and the awesome things people are doing.

If you live within the Herald-News' coverage area (most of Will and Grundy counties in Illinois), and you'd like to share your organization's news or upcoming events, email the information to new@theherald-news.com.


FAITH

Longtime Joliet pastor accepts call in Oregon

https://www.theherald-news.com/2019/08/26/longtime-joliet-pastor-accepts-call-in-oregon/a167plu/

Plainfield school held prayer and flag ceremony

https://www.theherald-news.com/2019/08/26/plainfield-school-held-prayer-and-flag-ceremony/aahtofq/


HEALTH

Silver Cross Hospital names Tracy Ardis vice president of human resources

https://www.theherald-news.com/2019/08/25/silver-cross-hospital-names-tracy-ardis-vice-president-of-human-resources/a6qrisj/



Silver Cross Hospital’s Anthony Wilson named Risk Manager of the Year

https://www.theherald-news.com/2019/08/25/silver-cross-hospitals-anthony-wilson-named-risk-manager-of-the-year/a4we5ry/


Silver Cross Charity Golf Classic raises over $195,000 for heart care

https://www.theherald-news.com/2019/08/25/silver-cross-charity-golf-classic-raises-over-195-000-for-heart-care/afwbn2z/


Morris Hospital earns A Grade for patient safety

https://www.theherald-news.com/2019/08/07/morris-hospital-earns-a-grade-for-patient-safety/a11b7a2/


Morris Hospital recognizes volunteers for service

https://www.theherald-news.com/2019/08/25/morris-hospital-recognizes-volunteers-for-service/ajhydi2/



Edward Foundation to host Indian dance event
Event will benefit the Care Center

https://www.theherald-news.com/2019/08/26/edward-foundation-to-host-indian-dance-event/aey7pup/


Festival attendees in Wilmington enjoy mud volleyball

https://www.theherald-news.com/2019/08/13/festival-attendees-in-wilmington-enjoy-mud-volleyabll/a6lsx4c/


Joliet Junior College honored longtime professor at arboretum 

https://www.theherald-news.com/2019/08/07/joliet-junior-college-honored-longtime-professor-at-arboretum/amov7x6/


Catch up with the Forest Preserve District of Will County

https://www.theherald-news.com/2019/08/09/catch-up-with-the-forest-preserve-district-of-will-county/arrokq6/


Joliet Junior College students earn dean’s lists for spring 2019

https://www.theherald-news.com/2019/08/13/joliet-junior-college-students-earn-deans-lists-for-spring-2019/ah1hs9v/


Plainfield teacher serving on committee forIllinois Holocaust Museum and Education Center in Skokie

https://www.theherald-news.com/2019/08/13/plainfield-teacher-serving-on-committee-forillinois-holocaust-museum-and-education-center-in-skokie/awwmgo5/


Number of hospitalizations potentially tied to vaping increases

https://www.theherald-news.com/2019/08/13/number-of-hospitalizations-potentially-tied-to-vaping-increases/aczuwid/


EVENTS

Healthy Driven Running Series features Naperville, Oswego, Plainfield races

https://www.theherald-news.com/2019/08/14/healthy-driven-running-series-features-naperville-oswego-plainfield-races/aydjrg6/


Lincoln-Way Foundation to host half marathon and 10K


https://www.theherald-news.com/2019/08/14/lincoln-way-foundation-to-host-half-marathon-10kand/acnjdqu/


Joliet hospital's auxiliary to host food festival 

https://www.theherald-news.com/2019/08/13/joliet-hospitals-auxiliary-to-host-food-festival/abzjaof/


Local arts and entertainment: Aug. 26 through Sept. 2

https://www.theherald-news.com/2019/08/10/local-arts-and-entertainment-aug-26-through-sept-2/ahj55o4/


Local faith events: Aug. 26 through Sept. 2

https://www.theherald-news.com/2019/08/10/local-faith-events-aug-26-through-sept-2/afidc0q/


Local food events: Aug. 26 through Sept. 2

https://www.theherald-news.com/2019/08/10/local-food-events-aug-26-through-sept-2/a2o9ejc/


Local pet events: Aug. 26 through Sept. 2

https://www.theherald-news.com/2019/08/10/local-pet-events-aug-26-through-sept-2/a9m4vhs/


Gotta Do It: Aug. 26 through Sept. 2

https://www.theherald-news.com/2019/08/10/gotta-do-it-aug-26-through-sept-2/a9umh5f/


Local health events: Aug. 27 through Sept. 3

https://www.theherald-news.com/2019/08/10/local-health-events-aug-27-through-sept-3/ae8i39t/


Center for Disability Services in Joliet to host 'Racing for a Cause' on Sept. 21
Must reserve tickets by Sept. 6

https://www.theherald-news.com/2019/08/16/center-for-disability-services-in-joliet-to-host-racing-for-a-cause-on-sept-21/a2a6i0z/


Crafters/vendors needed for event at Coal City church

https://www.theherald-news.com/2019/08/14/craftersvendors-needed-for-event-at-coal-city-church/axryurv/


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





Illustration by Christopher Gleason for "Staked!" Follow him at artworkbytopher.com.

Before the Dawn

We all have different definitions of "sleeping in."

For some, starting a weekend before noon is unthinkable. For others, it's past the time they might rise for work.

For me, it's any time after the sun is up. In fact, a part of me feels I've lost a significant chunk of the day if I waken after the sun does.

I blame early childhood experiences.

Before my maternal grandmother died the summer I turned seven, I spent quite a bit of time at her Chicago home. My grandfather had to be out the door by four o'clock in the morning for work, so she rose around three to prepare breakfast for him, and I invariably rose with her.

The memories are vivid: sitting at the table in the tiny kitchen that used to be a porch, gazing out the little window at my right into darkness, a silent contrast to her bustling in the lit room. I can smell the sizzling bacon and the coffee; I can hear the hiss of the percolator.

After my grandfather left, my grandmother and I headed back to bed for a couple hours.

As a middle school student and a teen, I suffered from insomnia. I often woke abruptly around one in the morning, never drifting back to sleep (i.e. a short nap) until five or so, a problem when one began school at seven-thirty!

I passed those hours reading (middle school) or reading and listening to music (high school).

For the first decade or so of motherhood, I was a nursing mom, so waking up one or more times at night was simply part of normal routine.

Those days merged into my single motherhood days shortly after my youngest turned two. And thus began a dozen years of rising before midnight to deliver newspapers, a job that grew from being responsible for ninety-nine papers to several thousand per night.

I met my second husband during that first year and moved to his childhood home in Channahon during my second year. He and I started our church's first and only youth ministry and remodeled outbuildings on our property to host meetings and events for up to fifteen youth of various ages.

He also set up a coffee pot with a timer in the game room since our kitchen was tiny and had no extra room for a coffee pot. Each afternoon, I'd prepare and schedule the coffee for the next day.

Every morning, shortly after awakening I took the dog outside (by morning, I mean shortly after midnight). He'd wander behind the buildings while I unlocked the door, the warm scent of freshly brewed coffee greeting me, especially welcome on chilly winter mornings.

Then Scooter and I would head back to the house - him for a snack and a nap, me up the metal ladder to my attic office to check email, social media, and slowly wake up. About an hour later, I'd wake up the kids so they could do chores, grab a snack, etc., while I did some housework and packed our lunches.

Yes, lunches. Breakfast was after the route.

The routine today is similar: I wake up in the dark, head downstairs to feed the cats and make coffee, and back upstairs to check email and schedule social media with darkness around me. Gradually, the sun rises and so does my level of alertness.

The biggest decision I make during those initial moments is which coffee pod to choose (Daniel buys a variety of dark roast) and which mug to to choose (as I've been gifted with many from generous family and friends). Here is today's choice.

Good morning! :)






Monday, August 26, 2019

Thank You For Checking In

Over the last week and a half, I was "off radar" while spending time with family in North Carolina.

But as I caught up with email and social media this past weekend, I was stunned and humbled to read how many people still visited this blog and read past posts.

In fact, this post was the second most read and has amassed over 1,100 total views since its original posting. If you're new to the BryonySeries, this gives you a free introduction to my fiction.

http://bryonyseries.blogspot.com/2018/12/all-eight-bryonyseries-christmas.html

And here was the most-visited post this past week:

http://bryonyseries.blogspot.com/2015/08/twenty-questions-with-ed-calkins.html

And for fans of The Adventures of Cornell Dyer series, the fourth book became available while I was gone:

https://www.amazon.ae/Cornell-Never-Robbers-Denise-Baran-Unland/dp/1949777081

Have a great Monday readers, writers, and BryonySeries fans! :)




Illustration by Christopher Gleason for "Staked!" Follow him at artworkbytopher.com.

Friday, August 16, 2019

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

Blog posting will be sparse next week, if at all, since I'll be out of state visiting with family.

Since it's crunch time for deadlines, I'll just leave you with warm wishes for today, this weekend, and the coming week.

If you keep scrolling, you'll see where you can find information and, beyond that, my feature stories for the week.

Be blessed!


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): 

 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.

Upcoming events:

Once Timothy Baran is done updating this page, these will listed here: https://www.bryonyseries.com/fetes-and-feasts.

Check out the progress he has made so far. Each square is hand-built. And be sure to "hover" your hand over the first square. Note: this only works (so far) with the desktop version.

But he's also made A LOT of changes to the website. So be sure to roam around a bit.

Books and Such

Information on my books (including where to buy) along with upcoming events is at www.bryonyseries.com. Again, Timothy is in the process of updating the website, so all titles may not appear. If you have any questions, email me at bryonyseries@gmail.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.


10 questions with Herald-News intern Rachel Barks

Today is Rachel's last day, too! But take a few minutes and meet the person behind this summer's byline.

https://www.theherald-news.com/lists/2019/08/05/715040289e564617893f77edf34d50d8/index.xml



An Extraordinary Life: So many extraordinary lives
A look back at some of the Joliet area people highlighted through the years

Maybe you'll know some of them.

https://www.theherald-news.com/2019/08/12/an-extraordinary-life-so-many-extraordinary-lives/ahqujdn/



Dacre Stoker is a novelist in his own 'write'
Descendant of 'Dracula's author to appear at 2 events

And I'll be at both of them!

https://www.theherald-news.com/2019/08/13/dacre-stoker-is-a-novelist-in-his-own-write/aaq5kei/



Have you read these classic vampire stories?

Check out some of my favorites!

https://www.theherald-news.com/2019/08/13/have-you-read-these-classic-vampire-stories/an9hkuw/



LocalLit book spotlight: Kathleen Ellinger of Joliet

Preview to Tuesday's review

https://www.theherald-news.com/lists/2019/08/13/db27768212d0451d810d34c34ed6de37/index.xml



Illustration by Matt Coundiff for "Visage." Follow him at facebook.com/artbymattcoundiff


Thursday, August 15, 2019

BryonySeries Throwback Thursday: A Few Raleigh Videos

Thursday, September 3, 2015


A Few Raleigh Videos

Playing Chutes and Ladders with Lucas, Rebekah, Sarah



The lazy river at Buffalo Road Aquatic Center


Lucas bowls a bumper strike


Lucas makes a wish at Goodberry's Frozen Custard


Walking/biking the trail behind Sarah's house


At Rum Runners


A view from the Stegall boat









Wednesday, August 14, 2019

Community News: Aug. 13 and Aug. 14, 2019

Check out the awesome things people are doing.

If you live within the Herald-News' coverage area (most of Will and Grundy counties in Illinois), and you'd like to share your organization's news or upcoming events, email the information to new@theherald-news.com.


Bikers toured through Grundy, Kankakee and Will Counties to raise money for a good cause
By Marney Simon

https://www.theherald-news.com/2019/08/07/bikers-toured-through-grundy-kankakee-and-will-counties-to-raise-money-for-a-good-cause/azhme2q/


Joliet hospital recognized for hip and knee replacement 

https://www.theherald-news.com/2019/08/07/joliet-hospital-recognized-for-hip-and-knee-replacement/aro7221/


Lewis University Romeoville president visits Easterseals Joliet

https://www.theherald-news.com/2019/08/09/lewis-university-president-visits-easterseals-joliet/aqgj4o6/


Silver Cross emergency department in New Lenox receives innovation award 

https://www.theherald-news.com/2019/08/07/silver-cross-emergency-department-in-new-lenox-receives-innovation-award/awnb175/


Botox helps mobility in Plainfield man with TBI

https://www.theherald-news.com/lists/2019/08/09/ae7dd45bca8b4382a6126d8fba33e5f4/index.xml


Morris Hospital re-designated as Level II Trauma Center

https://www.theherald-news.com/2019/08/07/morris-hospital-re-designated-as-level-ii-trauma-center/a4expkg/


Joliet students recognized for the virtue 'honesty'

https://www.theherald-news.com/2019/07/08/joliet-students-recognized-for-the-virtue-honesty/are1jq4/


Joliet students recognized for the virtue 'harmony'

https://www.theherald-news.com/2019/08/13/joliet-students-recognized-for-the-virtue-harmony/asd7qt5/


Joliet Junior College students earn dean’s lists for spring 2019

https://www.theherald-news.com/2019/08/13/joliet-junior-college-students-earn-deans-lists-for-spring-2019/ah1hs9v/


Plainfield teacher serving on committee for Illinois Holocaust Museum and Education Center in Skokie

https://www.theherald-news.com/2019/08/13/plainfield-teacher-serving-on-committee-forillinois-holocaust-museum-and-education-center-in-skokie/awwmgo5/


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."

Open Mic Night 2019: Denise M. Baran-Unland

Tuesday, August 13, 2019

It Takes a Village...

...or maybe a "Board of Trustees."

Anyway, when Sarah first began designing the BryonySeries website, she wanted to dedicate an entire page to me (gack!).

Obviously my contribution as author was an important one, but it wasn't the only one in terms of the series' "feel."

And I also felt the other creative contributions should be recognized, too. And not in a "me" and "everybody else" way either.

Moreover, since the website concept was to mirror the series, a page that included everyone (Board of Trustees; if you've read the first book Bryony, you'll understand) was the best way to go.

The page is not nearly complete (for instance, the artist for our landing page art, the beautiful pen and ink aerial view of "Munsonville," is not yet added), but it gives you a great idea of the talent behind the concept.

Check out the team here.


Illustration by Kathleen Rose Van Pelt for "Bryony."



























































Monday, August 12, 2019

Community News: Aug. 10 and Aug. 11, 2019

Check out upcoming events and the awesome things people are doing.

If you live within the Herald-News' coverage area (most of Will and Grundy counties in Illinois), and you'd like to share your organization's news or upcoming events, email the information to new@theherald-news.com.


Pets of the Week: Aug. 11


https://www.theherald-news.com/lists/2019/08/05/33eb7a2f7e6443d2bdd0b2c5f066cc8d/index.xml


Volunteer groups come together for a special day in Channahon

https://www.theherald-news.com/lists/2019/08/09/64fa056f0bf3465fb74a29c03c749333/index.xml


Joliet Township Infant Childcare Center Infant Childcare Center receives Gold Circle of Quality designation 

https://www.theherald-news.com/lists/2019/08/01/34e8c581a4c34ee4b5c5b739a9656eaa/index.xml


District 157-C in Frankfort welcomes first resource officer

https://www.theherald-news.com/2019/08/09/district-157-c-in-frankfort-welcomes-first-resource-officer/api8nwu/


Will County had spelling bee on March 7

https://www.theherald-news.com/2019/08/10/will-county-had-spelling-bee-on-march-7/an3cgzf/


Troy student receives angel investor award, check

https://www.theherald-news.com/2019/08/10/troy-student-receives-angel-investor-award-check/ak8yg2a/


Minooka school holds assembly for scholastic bowl team 

https://www.theherald-news.com/lists/2019/08/10/ce4ea4acad894295a3b09cb5205e66b1/index.xml


EVENTS

Local arts and entertainment: Aug.12 through Aug. 19

https://www.theherald-news.com/2019/08/10/local-arts-and-entertainment-aug-12-through-aug-19/aixd84k/


Local faith events: Aug.12 through Aug. 19

https://www.theherald-news.com/2019/08/10/local-faith-events-aug-12-through-aug-19/a4p54m9/


Gotta Do It: Aug. 12 through Aug. 19

https://www.theherald-news.com/2019/08/10/gotta-do-it-aug-12-through-aug-19/ap6k045/


Local health events: Aug. 13 through Aug. 20

https://www.theherald-news.com/2019/08/10/local-health-events-aug-13-through-aug-20/aa129r7/


Local pet events: Aug. 12 through Aug. 19

https://www.theherald-news.com/2019/08/10/local-pet-events-aug-12-through-aug-19/a1hu9ms/


Local food events: Aug. 12 through Aug. 19

https://www.theherald-news.com/2019/08/10/local-food-events-aug-12-through-aug-19/a9yp28h/



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 facebook.com/artbymattcoundiff

Six Months of Reading Only Local Authors

When Before the Blood went into editing last year, I decided to spend 2019 reading only books written and published by local authors.

Six months into the process, a very enjoyable process, I'm rediscovering the joy of discovering new books and enjoying them.

Publishing, like other industries, undergoes its own trends. By reading only locally produced, self-published books, I'm bypassing those, and its making a richer reading experience.

When I was a child and stayed inside the house due to asthma, I read. When I ran out of books of my own to read, I turned to the books of my mother's childhood, which sat on a shelf.

These books, although some where mass-produced by the Stratemeyer Syndicate, didn't have flashy covers or hyped-up back text.

They had a title, a name, and perhaps a frontispiece. The only way to discover these books was to read them. And I did, flipping through the pages, reading snippets as one samples appetizers, and finally heading to the first chapter to savor the entire book.

Liken it to the difference between seeing a blockbuster movie versus an independently produced film, where a discussion with the director and actors follow the viewing.

So although the books I'm reading now do have back cover copy, and some do come with enthusiastic promotion on social media, the carefully-crafted, targeted campaign is, thankfully, missing, and I'm able to relish each book for its own merit.

The covers give me an idea of the words between the pages before plunging into the poems or stories, but other than that, the rest is a quiet adventure of setting aside the hats that say "writer" and "editor" to burrow into someone else's world for awhile, a world I had zero hand in creating.

Do I enjoy each book equally? No, of course not. But each book is read for its own entertainment or informative or inspirational merits.

Not because it's famous. Or well-reviewed. Or because I know the author.

But because each reading is a delicious adventure. And, perhaps, because I know the author has, in most cases, overseen each step of the book production and wrote it because he/she had to tell that story, or write that poem, or deliver that message.

There's love and passion and hard work in the process. And a desire on the part of the author to share all of that with those who will pick up that book.

For a reader like me, it's pure delight.




Illustration by Kathleen Rose Van Pelt for "Bryony."



Saturday, August 10, 2019

Ed Calkins Discusses the Mystery of Slot Machines

Dear MOMI,

It’s with great reluctance that I put this question to the IVA for fear of compromising our secrecy, but I feel the question is just too large for one Irish vampire to research on his own. 
The steaks (excuse the spelling, to spell it correctly would cause undo anxiety) are very high. If we of the IVA are able to put our minds together via the message broad on the "Bryony" website and find the answer to this baffling two-part question within a vampire life time then…well we would have proved we could answer a two-part question. 
But what if, because of the magnitude of our collecting finding, we draw worshipful attention to our own personage and become media eye candy to the masses of grateful admirers? The IVA would never be the same.
Personally, I’m willing to risk it. 
So, here is the question: What did Irish people ever do to slot machines, and, if we did something, are we sorry?
Look, it doesn’t take a genius to know they hold something against us. The Irish are stuff of legend with our luck, and yet the video wheels that turn do not spell fortune to our pockets.
I must quickly separate slot machines in general from the slot machines in casinos, lest casinos join in taking offense. We all know well before stepping into a casino, that they are built as a capital collection center, and every is not expected to make money. 
The chief workhorse for this collection is the slot machine, which puts them under a lot of pressure. If they never pay out, no one will play, and no money shall rest in their collection buckets. If they pay too often, the same thing happens, and they find themselves an early retirement. (Or being sold to a Trump casino)
Early casino type machines had it made. Laws against gambling in most states made competition light and payouts slight and shady. These machines all had the words “for entertainment only” on them so the murky establishment that housed them had an ‘out’ if a player tried to cash out. 
Then came gambling’s biggest ally; state budget deficits. 
Once considered the scorch of virtuous American ethics, gambling now became the bread and butter of government budget balancing as well as job creation. Large casinos were built and larger expectation were attacked. 
As the money started pouring in, those expectation increased as did taxes on casinos larger than more profitable casinos.
Still more money was needed and state laws relaxed even further. Slots, once the domain of shady bars and houses of ill repute where introduced in grocery stores, gas stations, florists, currency exchanges, churches, grammar schools, and prisons with the mandate for capital collection.
Then something unexpected happen. Gamblers ran out of money. Who would have thought? You can find a slot machine anywhere today, but try and find someone playing one. 
Sometimes I do play one, they look so lonely and sad as do the grocery owners and such who have them. If you do win, they look at you disbelieving like ‘really? I’m trying to survive here, and you’re going to collect?’
Casino slots can’t be blamed for taking Irish people’s money, though they could be nicer about it. Couldn’t they say, "thanks for playing" or "better luck next time" instead of "game over" or "insert more money to keep playing?"
The whole signage around them is a taut; “win big” or ‘thousands won on this machine," is basically machine-speak for, "Everyone else wins, I don’t know what your problem is, loser."
But there is a true meanie to Irish slot play, and it’s found on personal computers. I’m not acquainted with on-line gambling slots because they remind me of that kid in grades school who hustled me out of lunch money with the game "guess what number I’m thinking, I’ll tell you if you’re right."
I’m talking about casino software that you can still buy on a CD Rom and install on your computer. This software is often written by the same companies that produce the casino version of the same slot machines that rob you. 
Given the competitive nature of slot machines, companies would have great incentive to give a player of the computer version that such a game pays out all the time. You can still find such people. 
If you do happen to see someone playing a cash slot, you might hear them mumbling, “I don’t understand, I always win at home.” Be assured such a person is not Ed Calkins who never wins at home.
In my informal poll, everyone wins big on the not-for-real-money slots except anyone truly Irish. (Everyone is a little Irish, of course.) 
My three very Polish wives play all the time on their computers and have to crow, “I’ve got 6 billion on this game," “Oh, I only have 700 million on this one," "Gee, look I just got the bonus AGAIN, I hope this program counts beyond a trillion.” 
I don’t think I have to tell you what happens when I play, and seeing that I’m the only truly Irish person I know that plays this kind of slot, you can understand my question.
I’m told I have no reason to be upset. I shouldn’t take it personally when the program tells me I have no money to play, and I need to delete myself and restart again to even be allowed inside the virtual walls of the virtual casino. I’m being treated like a computer virus! 
They tell me, “Look, the money isn’t real, its not like you have to pay it back.” Do they not know who they’re talking to, or have they not discovered my loose connection to reality? 
At my count, I owe my computer 6 trillion computer bucks which can only be earned by winning on the computer program that loves everyone else, but hates the truly Irish. With all the money I owe, it amazes me that I find time to go to work.
I really need your help, Denise. I know the IVA monitors every inch of your website, so my call for answers will be heard. 
To ensure a response, I’m offering a bounty for the best answer that is posted on Denise’s site and is offered by an IVA member. To the best answer, I will compose a limerick that will make the member famous without confirming or denying membership to the IVA. 
To the second best, I pledge a 10 pombec bill.
I realize that with such a prize in sight, many qualified, but unremembered, people are going to want to join the IVA (Irish Vampires Association) so I will review how to become a member.
1)      You don’t have to believe you’re a vampire (I don’t believe I’m a vampire most of the time (even the sight of blood make me hungry (unless it’s my blood (in which case it makes me uncomfortable (however its more the feel of the wound that the sight of blood.)))) but you do have to believe you’re Irish (you are).

2)      Be alone in a private place.

3)      Coronet yourself in a way you image the IVA coronets.

4)      Welcome yourself to the IVA.

5)      Appoint yourself to an IVA office.

6)      Pay yourself the dues you should receive for your office’s budget.

7)      Do as you believe an IVA member should do.

8)      Tell no one, not even yourself about this. Write yourself a membership card and burn it.


Once an IVA member, you are eligible for the prize. Compose you answer to: What did the Irish ever do to slot machines, and if we did something, are we sorry?

Then send it to Denise and tell her if you won. 

Wait, that kid with the numbers in his head might be the president. 

On second thought, Denise will decide who won. 

Don’t worry, Denise will forget your name as soon as she picks a winner.
                 

Ruthlessly yours,
                 Ed Calkins

Editor's note: The contest is inside Ed's head. You may send responses, but there are no winners.