SAVE THE DATE: "Book Publishing 101" Presentation

When I was homeschooling my six children, a wiser homeschooling mother wrote a great piece of advice.

If you want your children to really absorb knowledge, ask them to teach someone else.

I don't think I fully realied how much book publishing knowledge I'd accumulated over the last two decades until I gave a private presentation on "Book Publishing 101" to "Writers, We" - the writers group that meets at the New Lenox Public Library.

That same presenation will be available at 1 p.m. June 27 at the Joliet Public Library, 150 N. Ottawa St. in Joliet. 

I'll share the library's event link once it's posted.

Maybe I'll see you there!

Story Round-Up: Features in The Herald-News, March 14 through March 20

Good morning!

I have just five stories online to share with you today, less this week than usual becauseI'm working on a couple of large projects for the Shaw Local News Network's regional health team.

More stories will go live over the weekend, especially since I'm working this weekend. So please check back at shawlocal.com/the-herald-news.

To see the stories that ran in print this week and aren't online yet, click on the e-edition option at the top of The Herald-News website.

Before the stories, I also have a list of additional updates, resources, and information. Please check them out, too.

And if you'd like to find more kindness in your life, consider this book.

And have a great Friday!

Calendar

The BryonySeries calendar offers links to games, crafts, music, activities, science experiments, and  recipes that pick up themes to one or more of our books.

To participate, visit bryonyseries.com/ourcalendar.

Events (or where to find the BryonySeries) - so far:

April 18: "Shades of Noir" at 2 and 7 p.m., Billie Limacher Bicentennial Park, 201 W. Jefferson St., Joliet. Eight members of WriteOn Joliet (including me) will original radio-style stories and poems for the fourth year in a row. 

The first ten attendees at each performance will receive a FREE 2025 WriteOn Joliet anthology, courtesy of the BryonySeries creative group B.L.O.C.K.S. 

The first thirteen attendees at the BryonySeries before the 2 p.m.performance and the first twelve attendees at the BryonySeries table before the 7 p.m. performance will receive a FREE booklet called "Angel or Demon" (source material for "Miss Person"), courtesy of The Raven's House, who will be selling select noir pieces at the BryonySeries table.

Also, please check out our books by popping into The Book Market in Crest Hill (if you live in the area) or bookshop.org or Amazon if you don't. 

Also, many titles are available at the Joliet Public Library and the Downers Grove Public Library.

Please note: Bookshop and the libraries do not carry all of our books.

What is the BryonySeries?

Please read "Books of the BryonySeries: A Quick Overview"

For more information on the developing "parent brand" that is removing some of the heavy marketing lifting from me, visit bryonyseries.com/blocks.

BryonySeries books-in-progress

Bertrand the Mouse: We have plenty of Bertrand photos and ideas. Several are at the top of the list. At some point, we will assemble and release some more.

The Adventures of Cornell Dyer: Cornell Dyer and the House of Horreur" (because the toymaker's last name is "Horreur.") is finally begun, although albeit very slowly. I'd like to get enough done over the next month or so to finally give Sue Midlock (our artist for The Adventures of Cornell Dyer) some ideas for the book's cover and chapter heading illustrations.

Brainy Ann: The fifth book in The Girls of the BryonySeries is outlined and four chapters are written, hurray! Jennifer Wainwright has finished the cover portrait. I let this book slide for other BryonySeries projects. But the goal is to release "Brainy Ann" in 2026.

Jennifer designed the cover portraits for "Julie and the Too-Hard Homework," "Katie and the Big Fear," "Summer Sisters." and "Karla Joins In," as well as the frontispiece for "Lycanthropic Summer."

Other books: I am not writing a novel this year. But I have an idea for a BryonySeries Christmas anthology that I'd like to release in 2026. We also have a prologue/first chapter sampler of all the BryonySeries novels that's only available at certain events.

Rebekah is also slowly (very, very slowly) updating the BryonySeries YouTube and Pinterest accounts. And she' catching up with Kindles for some of the BryonySeries books. So do watch for those.

For books and more information about the series, visit bryonyseries.com.

RECIPE OF THE WEEK

Sue's Diner is a fictional restaurant in the fictional Munsonville that only exists in the BryonySeries.

Each Wednesday, we post a new recipe. The recipe is either featured in one of our cookbooks, will be featured in an upcoming cookbook, or is just an "extra" we want to share with you.

Check out the weekly recipe here.

WRITERS

If you're a writer anywhere in the world, you're welcome to join WriteOn Joliet's Facebook page. We're based in Joliet, Illinois, but we love to meet and interact with writers outside our area, too.

If you'd like to officially join WriteOn Joliet, we have two tiers of dues and two ways to attend meetings. We also have a marketing arm that's getting longer every year. Check us out at writeonjoliet.com.

I also suggest this book: Little Book of Revision: A Checklist for Fiction Writers. It's exactly as it says. Each page some with one suggestion for revision. The rest of the page is blank, so you can add your own notes. All proceeds benefit WriteOn Joliet.

If you need editing or help with self-publishing, check out dmbaranunland.com.

ARTISTS

If you need an artist for a project, I offer these recommendations.

NEWSLETTERS

Sign up for The Munsonville Times by emailing us at bryonyseries@gmail.com. The newsletter still isn't official yet, so we don't have an actual link on the website - but we are working on it! 

SOCIAL MEDIA

Daily updates: I haven't posted anything on Twitter/X (except a daily Bible verse) since September I can no longer schedule posts in advance. I'm not sure yet how to manage the account without that option. But you're welcome to follow me at @Denise_Unland61.

BryonySeries stuff: I used to curated content relating to the BryonySeries on Twitter/X at @BryonySeries and still post assorted related content at facebook.com/BryonySeries, youtube.com/user/BryonySeries, and themes of each book in the BryonySeries at pinterest.com/bryonyseries.

Again, not sure yet about the direction of the BryonySeries Twitter/X account. Still mulling that over.

And of course, please follow the adventures of Bertrand the Mouse on Instagram at bertrand_bryonyseries.

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.

FEATURES

Pritzker administration opens down payment assistance program to spur homeownership

https://www.shawlocal.com/news/2026/03/20/pritzker-administration-opens-down-payment-assistance-program-to-spur-homeownership/

Crest Hill’s Columbian Sumercé Roasters believes coffee and community go together

https://www.shawlocal.com/the-herald-news/2026/03/14/crest-hills-columbian-sumerce-roasters-believes-community-and-coffee-go-together/

Joliet Public Library hosting Marvel comic book artist

https://www.shawlocal.com/the-herald-news/2026/03/09/marvel-comic-book-artist-coming-to-joliet-public-library/

Temporary lane closures begin Monday for Seil Road Bridge project in Shorewood

https://www.shawlocal.com/the-herald-news/2026/03/15/temporary-lane-closures-begin-monday-for-seil-road-bridge-project-in-shorewood/

Will County Pets of the Week: March 16, 2026

Will County rescues have dogs and cats for adoption

https://www.shawlocal.com/the-herald-news/2026/03/16/will-county-pets-of-the-week-march-16-2026/

Illustration by Matt Coundiff for "Visage"

Story Round-Up: Features in The Herald-News, March 7 through March 13

Good morning!

I have seven stories online to share with you today, less this week than usual because I had a minor procedure on Tuesday and finished a huge project this week, too, for the Shaw Local News Network's regional health team.

More stories will go live over the weekend and next week. So please check back at shawlocal.com/the-herald-news.

To see the stories that ran in print this week and aren't online yet, click on the e-edition option at the top of The Herald-News website.

Before the stories, I also have a list of additional updates, resources, and information. Please check them out, too.

And if you'd like to find more kindness in your life, consider this book.

And have a great Friday!

Calendar

The BryonySeries calendar offers links to games, crafts, music, activities, science experiments, and  recipes that pick up themes to one or more of our books.

For January, all activities center around becoming your best self.

To participate, visit bryonyseries.com/ourcalendar.

Events (or where to find the BryonySeries) - so far:

Due to a recent slew of family (human and pet) emergencies these past few weeks, we have not (yet) scheduled another appearance. But that doesn't mean we aren't planning any and will update you soon.

In the meantime, please check out our books by popping into The Book Market in Crest Hill (if you live in the area) or bookshop.org or Amazon if you don't. 

Also, many titles are available at the Joliet Public Library and the Downers Grove Public Library.

Please note: Bookshop and the libraries do not carry all of our books.

What is the BryonySeries?

Please read "Books of the BryonySeries: A Quick Overview"

For more information on the developing "parent brand" that is removing some of the heavy marketing lifting from me, visit bryonyseries.com/blocks.

BryonySeries books-in-progress

Bertrand the Mouse: We have plenty of Bertrand photos and ideas. Several are at the top of the list. At some point, we will assemble and release some more.

The Adventures of Cornell Dyer: Cornell Dyer and the House of Horreur" (because the toymaker's last name is "Horreur.") is finally begun, although albeit very slowly. I'd like to get enough done over the next month or so to finally give Sue Midlock (our artist for The Adventures of Cornell Dyer) some ideas for the book's cover and chapter heading illustrations.

Brainy Ann: The fifth book in The Girls of the BryonySeries is outlined and four chapters are written, hurray! Jennifer Wainwright has finished the cover portrait. I let this book slide for other BryonySeries projects. But the goal is to release "Brainy Ann" in 2026.

Jennifer designed the cover portraits for "Julie and the Too-Hard Homework," "Katie and the Big Fear," "Summer Sisters." and "Karla Joins In," as well as the frontispiece for "Lycanthropic Summer."

Other books: I am not writing a novel this year. But I have an idea for a BryonySeries Christmas anthology that I'd like to release in 2026. We also have a prologue/first chapter sampler of all the BryonySeries novels that's only available at certain events.

Rebekah is also slowly (very, very slowly) updating the BryonySeries YouTube and Pinterest accounts. And she' catching up with Kindles for some of the BryonySeries books. So do watch for those.

For books and more information about the series, visit bryonyseries.com.

RECIPE OF THE WEEK

Sue's Diner is a fictional restaurant in the fictional Munsonville that only exists in the BryonySeries.

Each Wednesday, we post a new recipe. The recipe is either featured in one of our cookbooks, will be featured in an upcoming cookbook, or is just an "extra" we want to share with you.

Check out the weekly recipe here.

WRITERS

If you're a writer anywhere in the world, you're welcome to join WriteOn Joliet's Facebook page. We're based in Joliet, Illinois, but we love to meet and interact with writers outside our area, too.

If you'd like to officially join WriteOn Joliet, we have two tiers of dues and two ways to attend meetings. We also have a marketing arm that's getting longer every year. Check us out at writeonjoliet.com.

I also suggest this book: Little Book of Revision: A Checklist for Fiction Writers. It's exactly as it says. Each page some with one suggestion for revision. The rest of the page is blank, so you can add your own notes. All proceeds benefit WriteOn Joliet.

If you need editing or help with self-publishing, check out dmbaranunland.com.

ARTISTS

If you need an artist for a project, I offer these recommendations.

NEWSLETTERS

Sign up for The Munsonville Times by emailing us at bryonyseries@gmail.com. The newsletter still isn't official yet, so we don't have an actual link on the website - but we are working on it! 

SOCIAL MEDIA

Daily updates: I haven't posted anything on Twitter/X (except a daily Bible verse) since September I can no longer schedule posts in advance. I'm not sure yet how to manage the account without that option. But you're welcome to follow me at @Denise_Unland61.

BryonySeries stuff: I used to curated content relating to the BryonySeries on Twitter/X at @BryonySeries and still post assorted related content at facebook.com/BryonySeries, youtube.com/user/BryonySeries, and themes of each book in the BryonySeries at pinterest.com/bryonyseries.

Again, not sure yet about the direction of the BryonySeries Twitter/X account. Still mulling that over.

And of course, please follow the adventures of Bertrand the Mouse on Instagram at bertrand_bryonyseries.

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.

FEATURES

These Joliet area industries unlikely to see tariff relief soon, despite Supreme Court’s ruling

Home prices have been directly impacted, builders group says

https://www.shawlocal.com/the-herald-news/2026/03/06/these-joliet-area-industries-unlikely-to-see-tariff-relief-soon-despite-supreme-courts-ruling/

Developer building 365,000-square-foot industrial facility in New Lenox

https://www.shawlocal.com/the-herald-news/2026/03/12/developer-building-365000-square-foot-industrial-facility-in-new-lenox/

Pickleball fundraiser raises $10,000 to help people with disabilities supported by Trinity Services

https://www.shawlocal.com/the-herald-news/2026/03/08/pickleball-fundraiser-raises-10000-to-help-people-with-disabilities-supported-by-trinity-services/

Country Club Hills’ Baby Cheesecake expands into downtown Joliet location

https://www.shawlocal.com/the-herald-news/2026/03/05/country-club-hills-baby-cheesecake-expands-into-downtown-joliet-location/

Marvel comic book artist coming to Joliet Public Library

https://www.shawlocal.com/the-herald-news/2026/03/09/marvel-comic-book-artist-coming-to-joliet-public-library/

Joliet City Center Partnership businesses recognized at Chamber awards celebration

https://www.shawlocal.com/the-herald-news/2026/03/11/joliet-city-center-partnership-businesses-recognized-at-chamber-awards-celebration/

Will County Pets of the Week: March 9, 2026

Will County rescues have dogs and cats for adoption

https://www.shawlocal.com/the-herald-news/2026/03/09/will-county-pets-of-the-week-march-9-2026/

 

 

Illustration by Matt Coundiff for "Visage"

Photos: Here's the Food You Missed at WriteOn Joliet's 2025 Anthology Release Party

Good morning!

WriteOn Joliet will hosted its 9th Annual Anthology Release Party from 6 to 8 p.m. Dec. 4 at the Joliet Public Library, 150 N. Ottawa St. in Joliet.

The event was free to attend and open to the public. 

The chef-created heavy appetizers, coffee, water and hot chocolate, along with  photos with Santa, were also free. 

In fact, we had ten great reasons why we wished you could have attended.

Here's what Chef Tim of the BryonySeries B.L.O.C.K.S. team prepared for attendees last Thursday.

If you missed the party, you can at least feast your eyes on the photos.

And if you braved the bitter cold, parking challenges, respiratory illnesses, and scheduling challenges this time of year, you can visually relive the delectable experience.

Happy scrolling!

Beef Tenderloin Sliders

Marinated and roasted beef tenderloin, slow cooked onion, garlic aioli

Chicken Ceaser Salad

Applewood smoked chicken breast, lightly toasted croutons, creamy caesar dressing

Kale and Cranberry Salad

Peppered pulled pork, buttered crumbs, carrots, cabbage, and a creamy mustard dressing

Key Lime Bites

Lime Juice, lime zest, lime syrup, whipped cream

Cream & Berries

Fresh vanilla scented whipped cream, assorted berries, vanilla wafer, raspberry sauce

Cookies & Cream

Cocoa crisp, white chocolate, flake salt

(My year-old corgi is serving for a placeholder for this item, while Timothy looks for a photo).

Now, Timothy purchased all the food from his own pocket and prepared it fresh that day, too. He and Daniel (who worked all day in Chicago) set it everything up, did all the serving and replenishing, and took it all down, too, loading and unloading the entire setup from their vehicles multiples time that day.

So they do look understandably tired.

However...

It is my humble opinion that of all the competing events in Joliet last Thursday night, none had a spread quite so delicious or pleasing to the eye than we did.

Enjoy scrolling through the remaining photos!

For more information, visit writeonjoliet.com and bryonyseries.com.

Menu for WriteOn Joliet's 9th Annual Anthology Release Party on Dec. 4

Good morning!

WriteOn Joliet will host its 9th Annual Anthology Release Party from 6 to 8 p.m. Dec. 4 at the Joliet Public Library, 150 N. Ottawa St. in Joliet.

The event is free to attend and open to the public. 

The chef-created heavy appetizers, coffee and water (we might have hot chocolate, too) and photos with Santa are also free. 

In fact, we have ten great reasons why you should attend.

But today's blog is all about the food. Here's what Chef Tim has planned for you on Thursday.

Beef Tenderloin Sliders

Marinated and roasted beef tenderloin, slow cooked onion, garlic aioli

 

Chicken Ceaser Salad

Applewood smoked chicken breast, lightly toasted croutons, creamy caesar dressing

 

Kale and Cranberry Salad

Peppered pulled pork, buttered crumbs, carrots, cabbage, and a creamy mustard dressing

 

Key Lime Bites

Lime Juice, lime zest, lime syrup, whipped cream

 

Cream & Berries

Fresh vanilla scented whipped cream, assorted berries, vanilla wafer, raspberry sauce

 

Cookies & Cream

Cocoa crisp, white chocolate, flake salt

This pre-Calkins Day 2020 video Timothy created for the virtual event gives you an idea of his culinary skills.

Happy Tuesday!

For more information, visit writeonjoliet.com. 

10 Reasons Why You Should Attend WriteOn Joliet's 2025 Anthology Release Party

Good morning!

It's not too early to be thinking about WriteOn Joliet's Anthology Release Party on Dec. 4, which will arrive before you know it.

To be sure you don't miss the fun, here are ten reasons why should consider putting this event on your calendar right now.

1. FREE, fantastic, chef-prepared heavy appetizers and desserts.

2. FREE photos with Santa.

3. An opportunity to chat with a really great group of local authors and browse through their books with no pressure to buy.

4. One-stop Christmas shop for all the bookworms on your list, children through adult, with one-stop checkout, courtesy of Janet Staley, owner of The Book Market in Crest Hill.

5. A treasure trove of books with a wide variety of genres and storylines you haven't (yet) imagined, including copies of ALL WriteOn Joliet's anthologies, including our 2025 edition.

6. Each purchase supports The Book Market, a local business.

7, Each purchase supports local art, either the authors individually and or the group.

8. Really unique and gift-worthy giveaways at the BryonySeries table with book purchases (while supplies last).

9. Notecards, framed artwork, handcrafted wood pieces, vintage postcards of downtown Joliet: these are some of the other items you may find for sale, since many WriteOn authors are talented in other artistic ways.

10. An opportunity to stroll through the Joliet Public Library if you haven't done so lately. Staff is friendly and ready to assist you. Have you explored all the things you can do in the Digital Media Studio?

And did I mention FREE, fantastic, chef-prepared heavy appetizers and desserts? No rushing home to cook dinner on that night!

The event is from 6 to 8 p.m. Dec. 4 at the Joliet Public Library, 150 N. Ottawa Street in Joliet. PLEASE NOTE new location this year while the Black Road branch is being renovated.

For more information, visit writeonjoliet.com. 

We look forward to meeting you!

Enjoy "FAME" this Saturday!

The Joliet Public Library's Digital Media Studio is hosting its first FAME event on Saturday.

This artist market and showcase will feature a wide array of art and artists, along with live performances and demonstrations throughout the day on all three levels of the library.

I'll be there representing both BryonySeries and WriteOn Joliet (WriteOn Joliet has been a library partner since 2013) and will be selling both BryonySeries books and WriteOn Joliet anthologies, as well as books authored by my former co-leader Tom Hernandez, who died from brain cancer in 2024.

I'll also be hosting a comic book panel from 12:30 to 1 p.m.

And then I'll be chatting and reading some readings from 3:30 to 4 p.m. 

Finally, my booth will also have information about the BryonySeries, WriteOn Joliet, and B.L.O.C.K.S., which is the new umbrella group of BryonySeries.

Stop out, pop in, and be entertained!

FAME will take place from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Joliet Publcio Library, 150 N. Ottawa St. in Joliet.

Story Round-Up: Features in The Herald-News, July 5 through July 11

Good morning!

I have thirteen news and feature stories to share with you today at the bottom of this post. More stories will go live this weekend.

So be sure to check back on The Herald-News site: shawlocal.com/the-herald-news.

Before the stories I also have a list of additional updates, resources, and information. Please check them out, too.

And if you'd like to find more kindness in your life, consider this book.

And have a great Friday!

Events (or where to find the BryonySeries)

Good news, everyone! BryonySeries was officially part of the Billie Limacher Bicentennial Park Theater's Independence Day celebration on July 3.

For the past two years, we provided free children's games and book giveaways as a vendor. This year, we are part of the fabric of the actual event. And we could not be more thrilled.

Recap and photos (for sure this time) on Monday.

I'm also hanging out at The Book Market with author Alan Hines from 1 to 5 p.m. Saturday, July 12 for the last time until after surgery.

And please read how WriteOn Joliet authors are supporting reading in Will County. If you'd like to help us help out, please order soon, pop into The Book Market on Saturday, or... see Another Option for Helping Us Out.

What is the BryonySeries?

Please read "Books of the BryonySeries: A Quick Overview"

BryonySeries books-in-progress

Bertrand the Mouse: We have plenty of Bertrand photos and ideas. Several are at the top of the list. That's all I'm saying for now.

The Adventures of Cornell Dyer: Cornell Dyer and the House of Horreur" (because the toymaker's last name is "Horreur.") is stalled until Timothy finished his master's degree, which he did. So now we just have to stop having family emergencies (they just keep coming) and carve some time for a Cornell breakfast (it's been three years since our last one, way, way too long). I'm having surgery July 17, so I'm hoping we can make that happen before then, just to get the process moving and give Sue Midlock ideas for art (she illustrates all the Cornell books).

Brainy Ann: The fifth book in The Girls of the BryonySeries is outlined and the first chapter is written, hurray! Jennifer Wainwright, who welcomed her first child into the world last year, is nearly done with the cover portrait. I let this book slide for other BryonySeries projects...and I'm still letting it (overall) slide, I'm afraid. But I'm hoping to finish the book this year, fingers crossed.

Jennifer designed the cover portraits for "Julie and the Too-Hard Homework," "Katie and the Big Fear," "Summer Sisters." and "Karla Joins In," as well as the frontispiece for "Lycanthropic Summer."

Other books: I am not writing a novel this year. But I have an idea for a BryonySeries Christmas anthology that I'd like to release in 2026.

Rebekah is also slowly (very, very slowly) updating the BryonySeries YouTube and Pinterest accounts. And she' catching up with Kindles for some of the BryonySeries books. So do watch for those.

For books and more information about the series, visit bryonyseries.com.

RECIPE OF THE WEEK

Sue's Diner is a fictional restaurant in the fictional Munsonville that only exists in the BryonySeries.

Each Wednesday, we post a new recipe. The recipe is either featured in one of our cookbooks, will be featured in an upcoming cookbook, or is just an "extra" we want to share with you.

Check out the weekly recipe here.

WRITERS

If you're a writer anywhere in the world, you're welcome to join WriteOn Joliet's Facebook page. We're based in Joliet, Illinois, but we love to meet and interact with writers outside our area, too.

If you'd like to officially join WriteOn Joliet, we have two tiers of dues and two ways to attend meetings. We also have a marketing arm that's getting longer every year. Check us out at writeonjoliet.com.

I also suggest this book: Little Book of Revision: A Checklist for Fiction Writers. It's exactly as it says. Each page some with one suggestion for revision. The rest of the page is blank, so you can add your own notes. All proceeds benefit WriteOn Joliet.

If you need editing or help with self-publishing, check out dmbaranunland.com.

ARTISTS

If you need an artist for a project, I offer these recommendations.

NEWSLETTERS

Sign up for The Munsonville Times by emailing us at bryonyseries@gmail.com. The newsletter still isn't official yet, so we don't have an actual link on the website - but we are working on it! 

SOCIAL MEDIA

Daily updates: I haven't posted anything on Twitter/X (except a daily Bible verse) since September I can no longer schedule posts in advance. I'm not sure yet how to manage the account without that option. But you're welcome to follow me at @Denise_Unland61.

BryonySeries stuff: I used to curated content relating to the BryonySeries on Twitter/X at @BryonySeries and still post assorted related content at facebook.com/BryonySeries, youtube.com/user/BryonySeries, and themes of each book in the BryonySeries at pinterest.com/bryonyseries.

Again, not sure yet about the direction of the BryonySeries Twitter/X account. Still mulling that over.

And of course, please follow the adventures of Bertrand the Mouse on Instagram at bertrand_bryonyseries.

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.

FEATURES

These Illinois drive-up restaurants offer a nostalgic summer experience

https://www.shawlocal.com/thescene/2025/07/01/these-illinois-drive-up-restaurants-offer-a-nostalgic-summer-experience/

5 dangers lurking in your backyard and how to eliminate them

https://www.shawlocal.com/news/2025/07/07/5-dangers-lurking-in-your-backyard-and-how-to-eliminate-them/

Photos: Independence Day Celebration at Joliet's Bicentennial Park

https://www.shawlocal.com/gallery/2025/07/04/photos-independence-day-celebration-at-joliets-bicentennial-park/

$4.8 million renovation of Joliet’s Black Road branch library begins

Project on 20-year-old building expected to go into 2026

https://www.shawlocal.com/the-herald-news/2025/07/09/48-million-renovation-of-joliets-black-road-branch-library-begins/

State rep says new Illinois law will lower prescription costs

https://www.shawlocal.com/the-herald-news/2025/07/09/state-rep-says-new-illinois-law-will-lower-prescriptions-cost/

Chambers celebrate opening of Minooka independent-living, retirement community

https://www.shawlocal.com/the-herald-news/2025/07/06/chambers-celebrate-opening-of-minooka-independent-living-retirement-community/

Lockport bakery and market up for national Best Bakery 2025

https://www.shawlocal.com/the-herald-news/2025/07/05/lockport-bakery-and-market-up-for-national-best-bakery-2025/

Will County African American business group recognizes awardees at Juneteenth gala

https://www.shawlocal.com/the-herald-news/2025/07/05/will-county-african-american-business-group-recognizes-awardees-at-juneteenth-gala/

New Lenox showcases new regional sports complex to public

https://www.shawlocal.com/the-herald-news/2025/07/03/new-lenoxs-showcases-new-regional-sports-complex-to-public/

Sunday fundraiser in Joliet helps a Will County child realize a dream

Wish Upon a Star helps children with serious illnesses

https://www.shawlocal.com/the-herald-news/2025/07/04/sunday-fundraiser-in-joliet-helps-a-will-county-child-realize-a-dream/

Caregiver at Shorewood assisted living facility charged with stealing from resident

https://www.shawlocal.com/the-herald-news/2025/07/08/caregiver-at-shorewood-assisted-living-facility-charged-with-stealing-from-resident/

Joliet Lions host screening at Boys & Girls Club

https://www.shawlocal.com/the-herald-news/2025/07/07/joliet-lions-host-screening-at-boys-girls-club/

Will County Pets of the Week: June 30, 2025

Will County rescues have dogs and cats for adoption

https://www.shawlocal.com/the-herald-news/2025/07/07/will-county-pets-of-the-week-june-30-2025/

 

 

Illustration by Matt Coundiff for "Visage"

Story Round-Up: Features in The Herald-News, April 26 through May 2

 Good morning!

I have just eight feature stories to share with you today at the bottom of this post (amazing considering I took a few days off last week for WriteOn Joliet's radio play and I'm off work today) - and more will go live this weekend. So be sure to check back on The Herald-News site: shawlocal.com/the-herald-news.

Before the stories I also have a list of additional updates, resources, and information. Please check them out, too.

And if you'd like to find more kindness in your life, consider this book.

And have a great Friday!

Events (or where to find the BryonySeries in May)

The Book Market: 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. May 17, 2365 Plainfield Road, Crest Hill

Ye Old May Fest 2025: May 31 and June 1, Billie Limacher Bicentennial Park Theatre, 201 W. Jefferson St., Joliet.

BryonySeries books-in-progress

Bertrand the Mouse: Rebekah and I recently created a very special Bertrand the Mouse book that I'm hoping to give away at a special event...and it looks great! Yes, I'm STILL being mysterious about it...for now.

The Adventures of Cornell Dyer: Cornell Dyer and the House of Horreur" (because the toymaker's last name is "Horreur.") is stalled until Timothy finished his master's degree, which he did. So now we just have to stop having family emergencies (they just keep coming) and carve some time for a Cornell breakfast (it's been three years since our last one, way, way too long).

Brainy Ann: The fifth book in The Girls of the BryonySeries is outlined and the first chapter is written, hurray! Jennifer Wainwright, who welcomed her first child into the world last year, is nearly done with the cover portrait. I let this book slide for other BryonySeries projects...and I'm still letting it slide, I'm afraid. But I'm hoping to finish the book in 2025.

Jennifer designed the cover portraits for "Julie and the Too-Hard Homework," "Katie and the Big Fear," "Summer Sisters." and "Karla Joins In," as well as the frontispiece for "Lycanthropic Summer."

Bertrand the Mouse: I have tons of Bertrand photos and books in progress. The goal is to release at least two new ones this year.

Rebekah is also slowly (very, very slowly) updating the BryonySeries YouTube and Pinterest accounts. And she' catching up with Kindles for some of the BryonySeries books. So do watch for those.

For books and more information about the series, visit bryonyseries.com.

RECIPE OF THE WEEK

Sue's Diner is a fictional restaurant in the fictional Munsonville that only exists in the BryonySeries.

Each Wednesday, we post a new recipe. The recipe is either featured in one of our cookbooks, will be featured in an upcoming cookbook, or is just an "extra" we want to share with you.

Check out the recipe here.

WRITERS

If you're a writer anywhere in the world, you're welcome to join WriteOn Joliet's Facebook page. We're based in Joliet, Illinois, but we love to meet and interact with writers outside our area, too.

If you'd like to officially join WriteOn Joliet, we have two tiers of dues and two ways to attend meetings. We also have a marketing arm that's getting longer every year. Check us out at writeonjoliet.com.

I also suggest this book: Little Book of Revision: A Checklist for Fiction Writers. It's exactly as it says. Each page some with one suggestion for revision. The rest of the page is blank, so you can add your own notes. All proceeds benefit WriteOn Joliet.

If you need editing or help with self-publishing, check out dmbaranunland.com.

ARTISTS

If you need an artist for a project, I offer these recommendations.

NEWSLETTERS

Sign up for The Munsonville Times by emailing us at bryonyseries@gmail.com. The newsletter still isn't official yet, so we don't have an actual link on the website - but we are working on it! 

SOCIAL MEDIA

Daily updates: I haven't posted anything on Twitter/X (except a daily Bible verse) since September I can no longer schedule posts in advance. I'm not sure yet how to manage the account without that option. But you're welcome to follow me at @Denise_Unland61.

BryonySeries stuff: I used to curated content relating to the BryonySeries on Twitter/X at @BryonySeries and still post assorted related content at facebook.com/BryonySeries, youtube.com/user/BryonySeries, and themes of each book in the BryonySeries at pinterest.com/bryonyseries.

Again, not sure yet about the direction of the BryonySeries Twitter/X account. Still mulling that over.

And of course, please follow the adventures of Bertrand the Mouse on Instagram at bertrand_bryonyseries.

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.

FEATURES

 Joliet Karges Realty stays committed to ‘personalized service’ as it marks 75 years

Owner Jim Karges is proud of the company’s growth

https://www.shawlocal.com/the-herald-news/2025/04/29/joliet-karges-realty-celebrates-75-years-of-personalized-service/

New Hollywood Casino Joliet to include ‘prominent Chicago chefs and restaurants’

Boulevard at Hollywood Casino Joliet is currently being constructed

https://www.shawlocal.com/the-herald-news/2025/05/01/new-hollywood-casino-joliet-to-include-prominent-chicago-chefs-and-restaurants/

Will County tax exemption event to include veteran, senior programs

Walk-in event will help those eligible file property tax exemptions

https://www.shawlocal.com/the-herald-news/2025/04/26/will-county-tax-exemption-event-to-include-veteran-senior-programs/

Plainfield District 202 hires first director of safety and security

https://www.shawlocal.com/the-herald-news/2025/05/01/plainfield-district-202-hires-first-safety-and-security-director/

Plainfield restaurant hosted leadership event on Thursday

https://www.shawlocal.com/the-herald-news/2025/04/30/plainfield-restaurant-hosting-leadership-event-thursday/

Shorewood Portillo’s offering breakfast menu this summer

https://www.shawlocal.com/the-herald-news/2025/04/30/shorewood-portillos-offering-breakfast-menu-this-summer/

Lockport Gallery Seven accepting submissions for juried photo show

Submission deadline is April 30

https://www.shawlocal.com/the-herald-news/2025/04/27/lockport-gallery-seven-accepting-submissions-for-juried-photo-show/

Will County Pets of the Week: April 28, 2025

Will County rescues have dogs and cats for adoption

https://www.shawlocal.com/the-herald-news/2025/04/28/will-county-pets-of-the-week-april-28-2025/

5 Things to Do in Will County: Friends of the Joliet Public Library Book Sale

https://www.shawlocal.com/thescene/2025/04/30/5-things-to-do-in-will-county-friends-of-the-joliet-public-library-book-sale/

 

Illustration by Matt Coundiff for "Visage"