Story Round-Up: Features in The Herald-News, Aug. 31 to Sept. 6

Good morning!

I have eleven stories to share with you today at the bottom of this post with more stories going live over the weekend, So be sure to check back on The Herald-News site: shawlocal.com/the-herald-news.

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

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

And have a great Friday!

Event Updates

The BryonySeries Back-To-School display is now up at The Book Market. So do check it out if you're in the area.

Also, we recently held Bertrand's Back-To-School Birthday Bash at The Book Market.

We are also participating in four events in September (so far):

Sept. 14: Spooky Night Out at HellsGate in Lockport

Sept. 17: The Book Market in Crest Hill (tentative)

Sept. 27: End-Of-Summer Open Mic at the Billie Limacher Bicentennial Park Theatre in Joliet

Sept. 28: Local Author Fair at the Downers Grove Public Library

BryonySeries books-in-progress

House on Top of the Hill: Third book in the BryonySeries Limbo trilogy. I now have a good working draft of the entire book, with all but eight chapters that are ready for final edits. I should be able to finish the eight at the next at-home writing retreat starting Monday. We are still estimating a late 2024 release date for this book, with copies available for sale at WriteOn Joliet's anthology release party on Dec. 6.

The Adventures of Cornell Dyer: No updates here in a very long time, mostly because Timothy and Daniel are super busy with school on top of work (and plenty of work-related traveling). However, I outlined a "bonus" book that is intended for distribution at Bicentennial's "Ye Olde Mayfest" event in 2025. Here is a recap of the 2024 event.

Timothy said his concept for the next book in the actual series will be slightly dark ("slightly" because it's for kids, too) and will involve an old toy store. We are also working on the last book in the series (but it's not the final book, if that makes sense). Timothy is actually writing that one. In order to make progress on any of this, Timothy is hoping to schedule a "Cornell breakfast." But Timothy and Daniel are very busy with work and school right now. We've scheduled and broke several Cornell breakfasts in 2023 and 2024. Our last one was July 2022. So we are LONG, LONG, LONG overdue.

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 in April, has already started working on the cover portrait. I've neglected this book for a few months and hope to revisit it soon. We wanted to release it in late 2024, but 2024 has been a challenging year. I'm shooting for early 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.

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.

And finally...

Ed Calkins, Steward of Tara, has sent me twenty-one chapters to edit for his third book in his Ruthless trilogy. His first book is "Ruthless," his second is "The Fifth," and he is also the author of "Denise Unland's Irish Genealogy."

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 Junior College employee is 2024 recipient of the ATHENA Award

Kelly Rohder-Tonelli said receiving the award is ‘an unbelievable honor’

https://www.shawlocal.com/the-herald-news/2024/09/02/longtime-joliet-junior-college-employee-is-2024-recipient-of-the-athena-award/

New Joliet District 86 administrator learns former students are district employees

Judith Nash said she was thrilled to reconnect with them

https://www.shawlocal.com/the-herald-news/2024/08/30/new-joliet-district-86-administrator-learns-former-students-are-district-employees/

Will County State’s Attorney Glasgow honored by Illinois police chiefs

https://www.shawlocal.com/the-herald-news/2024/09/02/will-county-states-attorney-glasgow-honored-by-illinois-police-chiefs/

Shorewood cafe can hold all-age queer variety show, Village Board says

Village of Shorewood attorney: Event protected by 1st Amendment

https://www.shawlocal.com/the-herald-news/2024/08/30/shorewood-cafe-can-hold-all-age-queer-variety-show-village-board-says/

Spirit Halloween stores open in Will County

https://www.shawlocal.com/the-herald-news/2024/09/04/spirit-halloween-stores-opening-up-in-will-county/

Joliet Cornerstone to host annual art show this week

Featured artwork at the show includes diamond art, paintings and photographs

https://www.shawlocal.com/the-herald-news/2024/09/03/joliet-cornerstone-to-host-annual-art-show-sept-5/

Will County Humane Society joins Plainfield Shorewood Chamber

https://www.shawlocal.com/the-herald-news/2024/09/05/will-county-humane-society-joins-plainfield-shorewood-chamber/

Joliet man arrested after shots fired at person in vehicle

Vehicle disabled by gunfire, person not hit

https://www.shawlocal.com/the-herald-news/2024/09/01/joliet-man-arrested-after-shots-fired-at-person-in-vehicle/

Joliet police seek information about shots fired Saturday on Youngs Avenue

https://www.shawlocal.com/the-herald-news/2024/09/01/joliet-police-seek-information-about-shots-fired-saturday-on-youngs-avenue/

Will County Pets of the Week: Sept. 2, 2024

Will County rescues have dogs and cats for adoption

https://www.shawlocal.com/the-herald-news/2024/09/02/will-county-pets-of-the-week-sept-2-2024/

5 Things to Do in Will County: Joliet museum to host rooftop concert

https://www.shawlocal.com/thescene/2024/09/04/5-things-to-do-in-will-county-joliet-museum-to-host-rooftop-concert/

 

Illustration by Matt Coundiff for "Visage"

Story Round-Up: Features in The Herald-News, July 8 to July 14

Good morning!

Today I have nine features and news stories to share with you today with more stories are coming today and over the weekend. So be sure to check back on The Herald-News site: shawlocal.com/the-herald-news.

If you're a writer, want to be a writer, or know someone in the Will/Grundy counties area that fits that description, be sure to check out this event.  It's free but seating is limited and registration is required.

Also, WriteOn Joliet returned to the digital media center at the downtown branch of the Joliet Public Library last night continue editing the radio play we presented at the Billie Limacher Bicentennial Park Theatre in Joliet on April 22. We are now halfway through with the editing, hurray!

Also, if you missed that radio play the first time, you will have another opportunity at 10 a.m. Sept. 9 at the downtown branch of the Joliet Public Library. More on this later.

Not much as has changed in the BryonySeries world. I had lots of "life" catching up the last couple of days; I've re-read through some of the projects-in-progress; and spent quite a bit of time on the BryonySeries reference guide last weekend.

A quick recap:

House on Top of the Hill: Third book in the BryonySeries Limbo trilogy. I now have a good working draft of the entire book and two chapters that are ready for final edits.

Cornell Dyer and the Howls of Basketville: The next book in The Adventures of Cornell Dyer subseries is finally in production. We can't wait to release it into the hands of readers. 

You can find other titles in the series here. Timothy has not yet added our latest titles to the BryonySeries bookstore. But all titles are also on Amazon. 

Karla Joins In: The fourth book in The Girls of the BryonySeries series. Eight chapters are completed. and ready for their final edits; four more to go. Jennifer Wainright iw working the cover.

Jennifer designed the covers for Julie and the Too-Hard Homework, Katie and the Big Fear, and Summer Sisters, as well as frontispiece for Lycanthropic Summer. I can't wait to see her "Karla" illustration.

BryonySeries reference/guide book: Welcome to Munsonville: the People, Places, and Things of the BryonySeries. I'd love to have this one ready by the end of the year. Pecking slowly at it.

A Year of Shadows and Moonlight, of Gathering Blooms in the Woods: A rather unusual, poetic novella in the second person. Half of it is written and edited and another half is loosely written. Rebekah is also playing around with art for the cover. 

Rebekah is also 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.

Now back to the stories. Simply click on the link of the story that looks interesting to you. Happy scrolling!

But before the stories, I have a list of additional resources and information. Please check them out, too.

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

And have a great Friday!

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 do post the briefs 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 on Twitter at @BryonySeries and assorted related content at facebook.com/BryonySeries, youtube.com/user/BryonySeries, and themes of each book in the BryonySeries at pinterest.com/bryonyseries.

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

BRYONYSERIES BOOKS

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

BRYONYSERIES EVENTS

A full month of virtual events can be found at bryonyseries.com/calendar-of-events.

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 animal hospital helping displaced pets in Ukraine: The fundraiser on Saturday will include raffle baskets and food

Lockport music teacher composes new books, songs: Jodi Bordenaro: ‘I started letting my imagination run just like a child '

Movies, music and more at the Rialto Square Theater in Joliet this summer: Kelly Urquidi, Rialto spokesperson: ‘We have three shows coming up this week’ 

Joliet school’s reunion book earns state, national honors: Author: ‘It’s a nice reward for working on it’

Joliet’s Sub Dock’s new owner promises same ‘legendary’ quality: Mario Allabadi: ‘I want to keep everything the same for the people’

Joliet’s D. 86 approves 2 new principals

Free dog clinic in Bolingbrook on Saturday: Dog owners must register before the event

Pets of the Week: July 10, 2023: Will County rescues have dogs and cats for adoption

5 Things to do in Will County: Taco Fest in New Lenox: Plus 4 more suggestions for enjoying your weekend

Illustration by Matt Coundiff for "Visage"

Story Round-Up: Features in The Herald-News, May 6 to May 12

Good morning!

Today I have thirteen features and news stories to share with you today, which includes eight "Thank You, Teacher" I wrote in the background over the last few weeks.

More stories will be posted over the weekend. So be sure to check back on The Herald-News site: shawlocal.com/the-herald-news.

On April 22, WriteOn Joliet presented its first presentation of original readings in a radio-style format at the Billie Limacher Bicentennial Park Theater. In June, we will record an audio version of that show.

And if you missed it the first time around, you may get another opportunity. I will keep you posted.

I am very happy to see Friday today. Except for taking Rebekah to a very well-deserved "thank you" breakfast for all her hard BryonySeries work, I have no plans for this weekend, except to relax and write fiction, something I haven't done for several months - much needed since I'm scheduled to work next week again.

Here is a recap of my BryonySeries projects so far.

House on Top of the Hill: Third book in the BryonySeries Limbo trilogy. I now have a good working draft of the entire book and hope to spend some deep time on just one chapter this weekend.

Cornell Dyer and the Howls of Basketville: The next book in The Adventures of Cornell Dyer subseries. Timothy and I drafted it months ago, and I currently have nearly six solid chapters ready to go and hoping for a seventh by the end of this weekend. Sue Midlock has already sent all the interior and cover. As always, the art is amazing and perfect for the series.

You can find other titles in the series here. Timothy has not yet added our latest titles to the BryonySeries bookstore. But all titles are also on Amazon. 

Karla Joins In: The fourth book in The Girls of the BryonySeries series. Six chapters are completed and a hope to make progress on a seventh.

BryonySeries reference/guide book: Welcome to Munsonville: the People, Places, and Things of the BryonySeries. I'd love to have this one ready by the end of the year. Pecking slowly at it.

A Year of Shadows and Moonlight, of Gathering Blooms in the Woods: A rather unusual, poetic novella in the second person. A fourth of it is written and edited, another third on top of that is loosely written, and pieces are in "homework" shape. Rebekah is also playing around with art for the cover. This is typically a Friday night project - so hoping to play with it tonight.

Rebekah is also slowly updating the BryonySeries YouTube and Pinterest accounts, so watch for those.

Now back to the stories. Simply click on the link of the story that looks interesting to you. Happy scrolling!

But before the stories, I have a list of additional resources and information. Please check them out, too.

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

And have a great Friday!

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 do post the briefs 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 on Twitter at @BryonySeries and assorted related content at facebook.com/BryonySeries, youtube.com/user/BryonySeries, and themes of each book in the BryonySeries at pinterest.com/bryonyseries.

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

BRYONYSERIES BOOKS

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

BRYONYSERIES EVENTS

A full month of virtual events can be found at bryonyseries.com/calendar-of-events.

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

Longtime Joliet glass artist closes retail location, but hopeful for the future: Sue Regis: ‘I’m very blessed and grateful for the support in the community.’

The 815 gives Joliet area youth musicians a monthly concert experience: Youth ages 5 to 21 can sign up to perform at The Forge

Baran-Unland: 10 reasons why you should eat dinner with turtles on May 23: The Forest Preserve District of Will County will also hold a live turtle presentation on May 21.

Bring documents to shred on Saturday at #Romeoville village hall: This event is free and open to the public

Romeoville university site for 3rd annual Summer STEAM Camp: After The Peanut is hosting the camp at Lewis University

Will County Beer and Bourbon Fest scheduled for May 20 benefits veterans: Will County Habitat for Humanity is ‘only as strong as the community that supports us’ 

Joliet Public School Districts 86 teacher receives Golden Apple award in surprise celebration Wednesday: Chelsea Young: ‘The crowd came busting through the door with joyful cheers.’ 

New Lenox hospital foundation, Old National Bank announce corporate partnership: The donation will help fund programs and facilities 

Register now for a Mother’s Day event at the Will County forest preserve: Register by Friday for ‘Hike with Mother Nature at Keepataw Preserve

Plainfield Park District Foundation to host ‘Float and Fundraise’ event: Reserve your tube time now for the July 3 day of giving.

Get tips for saving money and energy at Troy Township event May 18: Registration is required for this free event  

Pets of the Week: May 8, 2023: Will County rescues have dogs and cats for adoption

5 Things to do in Will County: Get Mom a free ticket to a Joliet Slammers game on Sunday: Plus 4 more suggestions for enjoying your weekend

THANK YOU, TEACHERS

Joliet Central special needs teacher visits and raises money for orphans in Uganda: Assistant vice principal: ‘She’s remarkable, so full of love’

Plainfield’s District 202 director of student services committed to students’ social emotional health: ‘He has really been a leader and he will continue to keep it at the forefront for all of us’ 

Associate professor at Lewis University in Romeoville is a role model for future special education teachers: Jennifer Buss: ‘My goal was just to provide more doors being opened’  

Joliet’s District 86 hires its first French bilingual English language resource specialist: Kira Cloonan: ‘Once I found out this job was available, I just had to try for it’

Lincoln-Way West social worker ‘just lifts everyone’: Chrissy Hack promotes social-emotional health wherever she can

District 86 teacher shares her Colombian culture in Joliet classroom: Teacher Jenny Cuesta Hernandez said her Sator Sanchez students love learning new songs and games

Valley View special education teacher has taught every grade in 30-year career: Jennifer Foster ‘helps to build the whole child’  

Troy ELA teacher brings language to life for her students: Jennifer Lowe: ‘I so love getting kids up on their feet and getting them to engage’

Illustration by Matt Coundiff for "Visage"

Story Round-Up: Features in The Herald-News, Nov. 19 to Nov.25, 2022

Good morning!

I have fourteen features and news stories to share with you today. But more will be scheduled this weekend. So do check back on The Herald-News site: shawlocal.com/the-herald-news. 

Thank you for all the good thoughts and prayers for Rebekah. We finally have finally identified and eliminated some health concerns and now have a clear picture on how to treat her. She has a road ahead of her, but everything is treatable. So please continue all the well wishes.

Rebekah is the behind-the-scenes driver of the BryonySeries. She oversees its all its financial aspects, handles all book production, manages two social media accounts, and is the go-to person at events. Plus, she's a wonderful person. We need her to feel much better soon.

WriteOn Joliet's sixth anthology is live and you can buy it here on Amazon. Or you can purchase it on Dec. 8 at WriteOn Joliet's annual anthology release party, which will be held at the Joliet Public Library, one of our community partners. Details are here.

One the fiction side of things, I plan to release the first three books in the new "Girls of the BryonySeries" subseries  at WriteOn Joliet's anthology release party on December 8 are now available online on Amazon.

Jennifer Wainright (frontispiece artist for Lycanthropic Summer) created the portraits for all three books (and is currently working on a fourth). Rebekah designed the cover art.

These first three books are Julie and the Too-Hard Homework,  Summer Sisters, and Katie and the Big Fear, which are all now available on Amazon. And when Timothy has time to update the website, these three books, as well as Call of the Siren, will also be available in the BryonySeries bookstore.

I'm also currently working on a new Adventures of Cornell Dyer story: Cornell Dyer and the Hounds of Basketville. You can find other titles in the series here. Timothy has not yet added our latest titles to the BryonySeries bookstore. But all titles are also on Amazon. 

Next up in the series: a Sherlock Holmes parody (the main character is Sherman Homes), which has a solid outline. Sue Midlock is already working on the cover and the interior art: Sherman Homes and the Howls of Basketville.

I'm currently outlining the final book in the BryonySeries Limbo trilogy: House on Top of the Hill. 

I'm also working on a guide book to the series called: Welcome to Munsonville: the People, Places, and Things of the BryonySeries.

And I'm also working on a novella. But I'm not sharing any details yet. 

Rebekah is also slowly updating the BryonySeries YouTube and Pinterest accounts, so watch for those. 

Now back to the stories. Simply click on the link of the story that looks interesting to you. Happy scrolling!

But before the stories, I have a list of additional resources and information. Please check them out, too -

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

And have a great Friday!

RECIPE OF THE WEEK

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

Each Sunday, we post a new recipe. The recipe is either featured in one of our cookbooks or will be featured in an upcoming cookbook.

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. We also have a marketing arm that's getting longer every year, well, except this 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 support in your writing, I highly recommend this Twitter group: #5amwritersclub. I  joined it last year. Writers support each other on Twitter and meet every three weeks at 5 a.m. (4 a.m. CST - needless to say, I am often late!) on Zoom.

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 do post the briefs 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 on Twitter at @BryonySeries and assorted related content at facebook.com/BryonySeries, youtube.com/user/BryonySeries, and themes of each book in the BryonySeries at pinterest.com/bryonyseries.

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

BRYONYSERIES BOOKS

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

BRYONYSERIES EVENTS

A full month of virtual events can be found at bryonyseries.com/calendar-of-events.

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

Santa Sightings 2022: Where to find Santa in Will, Grundy counties this year: Registration required for some events.

Festival of Gnomes is Dec. 3 and Dec. 4 and Drunk’n Gnome is Dec. 9 and Dec. 10 

'A whole flock of them came over: Random #turkey photo becomes Seneca man’s Thanksgiving tradition': Robert Anselme: ‘It was unreal, the sound. I’ll never forget it.’

Joliet theater presented ‘A Very Rialto Christmas… There’s No Place Like Home’ on Monday night: Rialto Square Theatre kicked off its holiday season with annual concert 

The need for basic necessities in Will County just isn’t going away: Affordable housing is the highest need as annual Herald-Angels campaign kicks off.

Shorewood assisted living facility celebrates 20 years of senior living: Sheila Albor: ‘Everyone here is like one big family.’ 

Joliet kindergarteners explain the importance of Thanksgiving: Children’s perceptions of Thanksgiving are very similar to those of adults.

Here how’s to donate toys to kids in Will, Grundy Counties this holiday season.: Options range from donating online to a jeep toy ride.

Donate a new or gently used coat to keep someone warm in Will County: And if you need a coat, Our Caring Closet NFP in Wilmington can help.

2 Lockport Catholic grade schools will become regional school for Lockport and Homer Glen

Apply for a 4-year scholarship from the American Italian Cultural Society in Crest Hill." Applicants must be graduating seniors.

Baran-Unland: Why you should care about local hospitals’ Leapfrog Hospital Safety Grades: Morris Hospital, Silver Cross Hospital in New Lenox, received an ‘A’ for patient safety for fall 2022

5 Things to do in Will County: holiday music, movies and more: Bird lovers: Don’t miss the last monthly Midwest Bird Fair of 2022.

Pets of the Week: Nov. 21, 2022: Will County rescues have dogs and cats for adoption

Illustration by Matt Coundiff for "Visage"

Story Round-Up: Features in The Herald-News, Sept. 17 to Sept. 23

Good morning!

I have fifteen features and news stories to share with you today - and more not yet posted. So do check back on The Herald-News site: shawlocal.com/the-herald-news. 

This past spring, I also wrote an additional nineteen stories for a special "Thank You, Teachers," edition that will ran in print and online on May 5. You can check out all those stories at this link: https://www.shawlocal.com/the-herald-news/thank-you/teachers/

I also wrote a three-part series on the impact of COVID on kids, which you will at the bottom of this blog.

We recently and unexpectedly euthanize our oldest cat. She had an amazing and somewhat mysterious life. You can read details here.

Also, please send up good thoughts/prayers etc. for Rebekah. She's had a challenging couple years, health-wise (especially the last twelve months). Her latest bloodwork was all over the place, more was ordered, and she now needs to see three specialists and have a stress test (as if she weren't stressed enough already). Of course, the insurance is taking its time approving some of these tests.

Rebekah is absolutely integral to the BryonySeries, not to mention our family. She oversees its all its financial aspects, handles all book production, manages two social media accounts, and is the go-to person at events. Plus, she's a wonderful person. We need her to feel much better soon.

We pulled back WriteOn Joliet's anthology from production to add a memorial page to one of our active members who died suddenly last week. We also lost two former members this year, one of whom was an original member. All three deaths were sudden. Please send up good thoughts/prayers for their families.

One the fiction side of things, I read through the first eighteen chapters of the second book in the BryonySeries "ruthless" trilogy by Ed Calkins, Steward of Tara while Ed is working on the remaining chapters. 

Ed's feeling a bit discouraged because he wanted to release his second book by Calkins Day 2023 (Feb. 13). But as any creative person knows, good art doesn't always happen on our timetable. 

You can find Ed's first novel here.

Also, we recently released Cornell Dyer and the "Mistical" Being. It's not available in the BryonySeries bookstore yet, or on Kindle yet,  but it is available on Amazon.

We also released Cornell Dyer and the Calcium Deficient Bones. It, too, is not available in the BryonySeries bookstore yet, or on Kindle yet,  but it is available on Amazon.

Next up in the series: a Sherlock Holmes parody (the main character is Sherman Homes), which has a solid outline. Sue Midlock is already working on the cover and the interior art: Sherman Homes and the Howls of Basketville.

And we also  released Call of the Siren (the second book in the BryonySeries Limbo trilogy, with gorgeous cover art by Nancy Calkins). It, too, is not available in the BryonySeries bookstore yet, or on Kindle yet,  but it is available on Amazon.

I'm currently outlining the final book in the BryonySeries Limbo trilogy: House on Top of the Hill. 

And I'm also working on a guide book to the series called: Welcome to Munsonville: the People, Places, and Things of the BryonySeries.

And I'm also working on a novella. But I'm not sharing any details yet.

Jennifer Wainright (frontispiece artist for Lycanthropic Summer) has completed three portraits for  "Girls of the BryonySeries" series for tween girls and is currently working on a fourth. The portraits are beautiful and it shows that artist Jennifer Wainright can draw anything from werewolves to portraits! 

Rebekah has completed cover art for three of "Girls of the BryonySeries" books. They, too, are beautiful! One book in this series of eight books is completely written, a second should be ready for production this weekend, and the rest are outlined. 

We hope to release the first three books in this series at WriteOn Joliet's anthology release party in early December.

Rebekah is also working on updating the BryonySeries YouTube and Pinterest accounts, so watch for those. 

Now back to the stories. Simply click on the link of the story that looks interesting to you. Happy scrolling!

But before the stories, I have a list of additional resources and information. Please check them out, too -

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

And have a great Friday!

RECIPE OF THE WEEK

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

Each Sunday, we post a new recipe. The recipe is either featured in one of our cookbooks or will be featured in an upcoming cookbook.

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. We also have a marketing arm that's getting longer every year, well, except this 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 support in your writing, I highly recommend this Twitter group: #5amwritersclub. I  joined it last year. Writers support each other on Twitter and meet every three weeks at 5 a.m. (4 a.m. CST - needless to say, I am often late!) on Zoom.

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 do post the briefs 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 on Twitter at @BryonySeries and assorted related content at facebook.com/BryonySeries, youtube.com/user/BryonySeries, and themes of each book in the BryonySeries at pinterest.com/bryonyseries.

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

BRYONYSERIES BOOKS

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

BRYONYSERIES EVENTS

A full month of virtual events can be found at bryonyseries.com/calendar-of-events.

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 senior hoping to beat brain cancer with an electrical field: Joan Quaresima: ‘If she stops wearing it, the cancer will most likely come back’

People of all ages celebrated pride at third Joliet PrideFest: The festival included nonprofits, live music, food and a variety of activities

Pets of the Week: Sept. 19, 2022; Will County rescues have dogs and cats for adoption.

Will County may see storms, damaging winds Sunday night: Summer-like conditions are forecasted for the remainder of the week.

3 men stabbed in Bolingbrook home Saturday night: The incident is being investigated.

2 houses struck by gunfire in Joliet on Saturday: No injuries were reported.

Multi-vehicle crash with injuries in Plainfield shut down part of Ridge Road on Friday: Everyone involved in the traffic crash refused medical treatment

Hundreds celebrate Latino music and food in downtown Joliet on Saturday.: The Latino Music and Food Fest was held the day after Mexican Independence Day.

Will County students may be without school bus service later this week due to strike threat: A possible bus driver walkout at First Student leaves some school districts, parents, figuring out how to transport students

Will County school buses will continue to roll following possible strike threat: Teamsters: ‘It’s a good contract, it’s a solid contract.’

Joliet school wins prestigious national award for the 2nd time: Eisenhower Academy was named a 2022 National Blue Ribbon School.

The Doug and Dave Show brings ‘Mass Confusion’ to Plainfield church: Doug Brummell: ‘I think it’s the most fun people will ever have learning about their faith’

Will County forest preserve to host live pelican presentation and exhibit grand opening on Saturday: Guided hikes include the pelican feeding and resting areas around the preserve.

5 Things to do in Will County: quilts, car shows, marching bands: Plus, a special presentation in commemoration of the 65th anniversary of the 1957 disappearance of newspaperwoman Molly Zelko

Mystery Diner in Shorewood: Mark’s on 59 serves big flavor from small venueL Carryout wait times are short, too

Kids and COVID

COVID-19 didn’t leave kids unscathed: Aschinberg: ‘Like any negative social event, kids who are most at risk bear most of the brunt’

The pandemic was a lonely time for kids: Loss of in-school experiences, sports affected many youth on some level.

Facing the post-pandemic: ‘We know when something is off with our children’: Showing kids how to talk about feelings is a good first step toward protecting their mental health. 

Illustration by Matt Coundiff for "Visage"

Story Round-Up: Features in The Herald-News, Aug 13 to Aug. 19

Good morning!

I have twelve features and news stories to share with you today - and more not yet posted. But I'm working through the weekend, so do check back on The Herald-News site: shawlocal.com/the-herald-news. 

This past spring, I also wrote an additional nineteen stories for a special "Thank You, Teachers," edition that will ran in print and online on May 5. You can check out all those stories at this link: https://www.shawlocal.com/the-herald-news/thank-you/teachers/

I also wrote a three-part series on the impact of COVID on kids, which you will at the bottom of this blog.

On the fiction side of things, we recently released Cornell Dyer and the "Mistical" Being. It's not available in the BryonySeries bookstore yet, or on Kindle yet,  but it is available on Amazon.

We also released Cornell Dyer and the Calcium Deficient Bones. It, too, is not available in the BryonySeries bookstore yet, or on Kindle yet,  but it is available on Amazon.

And we also  released Call of the Siren (the second book in the BryonySeries Limbo trilogy, with gorgeous cover art by Nancy Calkins). It, too, is not available in the BryonySeries bookstore yet, or on Kindle yet,  but it is available on Amazon.

I'm currently outlining the final book in the BryonySeries Limbo trilogy: House on Top of the Hill. 

And I'm also working on a guide book to the series called: Welcome to Munsonville: the People, Places, and Things of the BryonySeries.

Next up in the series: a Sherlock Holmes parody (the main character is Sherman Homes), which has a solid outline. Sue Midlock is already working on the cover and the interior art: Sherman Homes and the Howls of Basketville.

Jennifer Wainright (frontispiece artist for Lycanthropic Summer) has completed two portraits for  "Girls of the BryonySeries" series for tween girls and is currently working on a third. The portraits are beautiful and it shows that artist Jennifer Wainright can draw anything from werewolves to portraits! 

Rebekah has completed cover art for two of "Girls of the BryonySeries" books. They, too, are beautiful! One book in this series of eight books is completely written, a second is nearly written, and the rest are outlined. 

Rebekah is also working on updating the BryonySeries YouTube and Pinterest accounts, so watch for those.

Now back to the stories. Simply click on the link of the story that looks interesting to you. Happy scrolling!

But before the stories, I have a list of additional resources and information. Please check them out, too -

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

And have a great Friday!

RECIPE OF THE WEEK

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

Each Sunday, we post a new recipe. The recipe is either featured in one of our cookbooks or will be featured in an upcoming cookbook.

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. We also have a marketing arm that's getting longer every year, well, except this 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 support in your writing, I highly recommend this Twitter group: #5amwritersclub. I  joined it last year. Writers support each other on Twitter and meet every three weeks at 5 a.m. (4 a.m. CST - needless to say, I am often late!) on Zoom.

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 do post the briefs 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 on Twitter at @BryonySeries and assorted related content at facebook.com/BryonySeries, youtube.com/user/BryonySeries, and themes of each book in the BryonySeries at pinterest.com/bryonyseries.

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

BRYONYSERIES BOOKS

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

BRYONYSERIES EVENTS

A full month of virtual events can be found at bryonyseries.com/calendar-of-events.

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

Dwight teen climbs Devil’s Tower to raise money for school’s emergency aid fund: Noah Kelleher: ‘We need to climb mountains for each other.’

What’s driving the cost of housing in Will County?: Patricia Venziano: ‘Nothing seems to be affordable anymore.’

Longtime Joliet photographer has exhibit at St. Joe’s in Joliet: Bob Campbell: ‘Anytime you can contribute to a good cause — that’s a good thing’

Pets of the Week: Aug. 15, 2022: Will County Rescues have dogs and cats for adoption.

Scrambling to find teachers, bus drivers in Will County: School starts this week for most districts and most districts are still hiring.

Back-to-school in Will County is looking a lot like 2019: The pandemic hasn’t gone away. But many mitigations are eased.

School administrators discuss school shortages in WillCounty: Shawn Walsh: ‘We need to get more people enthused about joining the educational field’

Romeoville cancer care center provides ‘one-stop’ oncology care: The facility is also an extension of the Ascension Illinois — Cancer Care Joliet

Kim Gordon knows #Joliet schools from both sides of the desk: Gordon: ‘I think it’s important that we retain qualified, passionate teachers who are passionate about this community’

St. Joe’s hospital in Joliet celebrates 140 years of holistic care: The Joliet hospital was rebranded as Ascension Saint Joseph – Joliet earlier this year.

Joliet third grader arrived at his 1st day of school in a fire truck: William Zaffino even got to pull the horn twice.

Plainfield man arrested for Shorewood bank robbery: The Will County State’s Attorney’s Office filed felony charges for robbery and robbery of a financial institution.

Kids and COVID

COVID-19 didn’t leave kids unscathed: Aschinberg: ‘Like any negative social event, kids who are most at risk bear most of the brunt’

The pandemic was a lonely time for kids: Loss of in-school experiences, sports affected many youth on some level.

Facing the post-pandemic: ‘We know when something is off with our children’: Showing kids how to talk about feelings is a good first step toward protecting their mental health. 

Illustration by Matt Coundiff for "Visage"