Showing posts with label Veterans Day. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Veterans Day. Show all posts

Friday, November 15, 2024

Story Round-Up: Features in The Herald-News, Nov. 9 to Nov. 15

Good morning!

I have sixteen stories to share with you today at the bottom of this post with more stories going live over the weekend.

And I have five stories that were part of The Herald-News' second "Thank You, Veterans" edition. That makes a total of twenty-one!

So if you like reading anything I've written, you won't run out of reading material any time soon.

More stories will go live this 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.

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

And have a great Friday!

Event Updates

The BryonySeries Christmas Display is now up at The Book Market in Crest Hill. Along with eleven curated BryonySeries books for you to browse and buy, the display features Ribbit-Ribbits from Cindy and free purple music roses with select purchases while supplies last.

We are also participating in four more events (so far) in November and December.

North Pole Christmas Market: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., Renaissance Center, 214 N. Ottawa St., Joliet. The Christmas Market is part of the Joliet City Center Partnership's "Light Up the Holidays Festival and Parade." And we are participating in THREE unique ways this year. More details to come later.

WriteOn Joliet 8th Annual Anthology Release Party: 6 to 8 p.m. Dec. 5, Joliet Public Library, 3395 Black Road, Joliet. FREE chef-created heavy appetizers and desserts and FREE photos with Santa. Chance to meet WriteOn Joliet authors and browse many varieties of locally written genres. One-stop checkout.

Plus, the ByronySeries will appear at The Book Market in Crest Hill from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. on one date in November and one in December, both TBA.

BryonySeries books-in-progress

House on Top of the Hill: Third book in the BryonySeries Limbo trilogy, and the book is now live on Amazon. We are hoping print copies will be available for sale at WriteOn Joliet's anthology release party on Dec. 5.

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...

I am working on the hard edits for Ed Calkins, Steward of Tara's third book in his Ruthless trilogy: "Recovering Ruthless."

s 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 pageWe'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/BryonySeriesyoutube.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 food bank donates meat waste to Lockport wildlife ranch

The Northern Illinois Food Bank tries to make sure ‘nothing goes to waste’

https://www.shawlocal.com/the-herald-news/2024/11/14/joliet-food-bank-donates-meat-waste-to-lockport-wildlife-ranch/

Plainfield 5th grader raises $2,060 to help disabled veterans

Commemorative flags will remain on school grounds through Thursday

https://www.shawlocal.com/the-herald-news/2024/11/11/plainfield-5th-grader-raised-2060-to-help-disabled-veterans/

We Rock the Spectrum in Shorewood a gym for kids of all abilities

Amy Allen wants facility to be a resource for the community

https://www.shawlocal.com/the-herald-news/2024/11/04/we-rock-the-spectrum-in-shorewood-more-then-an-all-abilities-gym/

The ‘Drew Barrymore Show’ featured Shorewood man

Tom Bolek of Shorewood appeared with a veteran and support dog

https://www.shawlocal.com/the-herald-news/2024/11/10/the-drew-barrymore-show-to-feature-shorewood-man-on-monday/

Shorewood hybrid battery business moving location

https://www.shawlocal.com/the-herald-news/2024/11/09/shorewood-hybrid-battery-business-moving-location/

CIEL Senior Living in Plainfield holds grand opening on Friday

https://www.shawlocal.com/the-herald-news/2024/11/14/ciel-senior-living-in-plainfield-holds-grand-opening-on-friday/

McWethy’s Tavern in Romeoville hosting red-carpet barrel release party

Two ticket options are available

https://www.shawlocal.com/the-herald-news/2024/11/14/mcwethys-tavern-in-romeoville-hosting-red-carpet-barrel-release-party/

95th Childerguild Ball to benefit Silver Cross New Lenox

Ticket deadline was Thursday

https://www.shawlocal.com/the-herald-news/2024/11/12/95th-childerguild-ball-to-benefit-silver-cross-new-lenox/

Cookie Store in Plainfield now open

https://www.shawlocal.com/the-herald-news/2024/11/13/cookie-store-in-plainfield-now-open/

Silver Cross New Lenox held lung cancer event on Wednesday

https://www.shawlocal.com/the-herald-news/2024/11/12/silver-cross-new-lenox-to-host-lung-cancer-event-on-wednesday/

Joliet church hosted St. Jude relic on Monday

https://www.shawlocal.com/the-herald-news/2024/11/08/joliet-church-hosting-st-jude-relic-on-monday/

Joliet Chamber event supports Council for Working Women

Tickets now available for Dec. 2 event

https://www.shawlocal.com/the-herald-news/2024/11/11/joliet-chamber-event-supports-council-for-working-women/

Will County says 75% of registered voters cast ballots on Tuesday

https://www.shawlocal.com/the-herald-news/2024/11/05/will-county-sees-robust-voter-turnout-on-election-day/

Joliet’s Rialto Square Theatre offers plenty of holiday entertainment

Holiday series kicks off with a tree lighting on Nov. 26

https://www.shawlocal.com/the-herald-news/2024/08/18/joliet-rialto-announces-2024-holiday-entertainment/

Will County Pets of the Week: Nov. 11, 2024

Will County rescues have dogs and cats for adoption

https://www.shawlocal.com/the-herald-news/2024/11/11/will-county-pets-of-the-week-nov11-2024/

5 Things to Do in Will County: Christmas, holiday markets

https://www.shawlocal.com/thescene/2024/11/14/5-things-to-do-in-will-county-christmas-holiday-markets/


THANK YOU, VETERANS

 Michael Collins of Plainfield proud of service to country, community

Collins said he always tried to ‘make the right decisions’

https://www.shawlocal.com/the-herald-news/thank-you/veterans/2024/11/09/michael-collins-of-plainfield-proud-of-service-to-country-community/

Service is paramount to New Lenox physician and veteran

Dr. Joseph Hindo, Silver Cross: ‘Everyone should try to be of service to others.’

https://www.shawlocal.com/the-herald-news/thank-you/veterans/2024/11/09/service-is-paramount-to-new-lenox-internist-and-veteran/

Joliet veteran ‘can’t do enough for veterans’

Dan Miller can’t imagine not serving in some way

https://www.shawlocal.com/the-herald-news/thank-you/veterans/2024/11/09/joliet-veteran-cant-do-enough-for-veterans/

Cancer leads Joliet Army veteran to service twice over

Skip Hoechbauer: ‘I love helping veterans and making them feel they’re not forgotten’

https://www.shawlocal.com/the-herald-news/thank-you/veterans/2024/11/09/cancer-leads-joliet-army-veteran-to-service-twice-over/

New Lenox veteran gives back through craftsmanship

Regina Lattuca, vice president of K9s for Veterans: ‘He really wants to help his fellow veterans.’

https://www.shawlocal.com/the-herald-news/thank-you/veterans/2024/11/09/new-lenox-veteran-gives-back-through-craftsmanship/

Illustration by Matt Coundiff for "Visage"

Friday, November 11, 2022

Story Round-Up: Features in The Herald-News, Nov. 5 to Nov.11, 2022

Good morning!

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

Please send up good thoughts/prayers and so on for Rebekah. She's been seeing specialists and undergoing tests since August. Every abnormal test means more tests, which is really kicking up her anxiety. She's also working odd hours through all of us this, and she's already tired from not feeling well. We see another specialist today. Hopefully we are close to getting some answers.

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

These are Julie and the Too-Hard Homework and Summer Sisters; I should have copies to sell by this weekend. A third, Katie and the Big Fear, is currently in review.

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! 

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.

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. Well, I did share a few details with Ed last night. But only because he brought up a certain character.

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 pageWe'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

Will County veterans’ organizations bring value to communities: Greg Roach: ‘We want people to realize we have a very strong love for our country.’

Veterans Day 2022: where to find observances in Will and Grundy counties: Here’s where to formally honor veterans.

Joliet woman on a mission to keep ‘king of the instruments’ alive: Retired music teacher rehomed several organs and is giving lessons for free.

Local artists will give real meaning to ‘home for the holidays’ at Joliet theater: Tickets for the Rialto Square Theatre’s holiday concert are available now. 

Voters in Will, Grundy counties wanted their voices heard: Women’s rights, inflation among the issues concerning voters

Joliet woman on a mission to keep ‘king of the instruments’ alive: Retired music teacher rehomed several #organs and is giving lessons for free.

Thursday was last day for summer-like weather in northern Illinois: Temperatures will start to fall Thursday night into Friday.

Joliet food mart sells winning lottery ticket: Sam Masood: ‘Hopefully, we can sell the big one.’

‘Shine a Light’ on lung cancer on Wednesday at Silver Cross Hospital in New Lenox: The event is free. Registration is required. 

Hooters in Joliet hosting inspirational purse and toiletries drive for women in need: The drive runs through Nov. 20.

Get your mobile passport and embark on the Joliet Taco Trail: The Heritage Corridor Convention and Visitors Bureau and the Joliet City Center Partnership launched the Joliet Taco Trail.

5 Things to do in Will County: live music, good food, ‘special tappings: Plus, the Annual St. Joseph Senior Christmas Bazaar has no admission fee.

Pets of the Week: Nov. 7, 2022: Will County rescues have dogs and cats for adoption.








Illustration by Matt Coundiff for "Visage"


Friday, November 12, 2021

Story Round-Up: Features in The Herald-News, Nov. 6 through Nov. 12

Good morning!

I have twenty-two features stories to share with you today and few more that will be posted over the weekend, so do watch for them.

Speaking of stories, I've had a bit of change in work duties this past week.

Four years ago, I was asked to write a weekly events newsletter for The Herald-News. Most likely unbeknownst to area libraries )unless they subscribed to this newsletter), I dedicated one newsletter each month to highlight upcoming free events at all libraries in Will County - one event per library.

And because I was receiving so many requests for feature stories from local authors (while Herald-News print space was simulaneously shrinking), I pitched a second newsletter so I could share short stories from authors and review their books.

That newsletter was called LocalLit, and I was especially proud of this newsletter. I felt it was a unique offering, especially for a daily community newspaper.

For me, it was also a wonderful opportunity to read one book each week from a local author I may not have otherwise read - and to share my thoughts about the book with readers in terms of, not just what I thought about it, but also the type of reader who might enjoy reading it.

A few days ago, I was asked to let both newsletters go in favor or writing more features stories, especially since I am known for in-depth, longform stories about people in the community.

So will I still read books by local authors? Of course. 

In fact, I can finally tackle a very long series by this local author I've always wanted to read. I'm halfway through the first book and probably have thirty or more to go.

For all of you who subscribed to the newsletters, especially LocalLit, which was more robust in subscribers than I ever imagined it would/could be, thank you. 

May you continue to seek out and read books by local authors, not because they're locally written, but to discover some really terrific stories that often get unnoticed.

And for those of you who subscribed to the Will County Go Guide (later named in 2020: the Will County Inside/Outside Guide), please continue to patronize your local library. 

Now for a recap/update on my BryonySeries projects:

I am currently re-reading my scribbled first draft for Call of the Siren (the second book in the BryonySeries Limbo trilogy) and starting to color in the lines. I'm anticipating a late spring publication date, but progress is slow, so we shall see. 

Barring the unforeseen, we do plan to publish the book in 2022.

Sue Midlock has completed the art for Cornell Dyer and the "Mistical Being" (cover looks great, by the way) and I'm hoping she can begin art soon for Cornell Dyer and the Calcium Deficient Bones. 

Timothy has also scheduled (and canceled) a couple of "Cornell" breakfasts to start working on the next book, a Sherlock Holmes parody (the main character is Sherman Homes) as life has gotten in the way for us. But we will get to it soon.

Sarah also had a crazy dream that sounded perfect for An Adventure of Cornell Dyer mystery. But she wants time to draw some sketches, a map, and write the "rules." It's called Cornell Dyer and the House of Broken Portals.

Bertrand the Mouse has returned, and you can read about it herehere, and here

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! 

I current have one book in the series completed, and I am working on the second, which I'll revisit this weekend when I'm off work. The goal is to have three of the eight done before I release any of them.

Now back to the twenty-two 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 pageWe'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 Will County Go Guide and Sign up for the LocalLit Short Story and Book Review Newsletter at https://www.theherald-news.com/newsletter/

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 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.

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-1.

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

After 55 years of steady service, Troy bus driver Barb Gray is ready to retire: Baumann: ‘That’s a lifetime of dedication. In a service industry, that’s pretty amazing.’

LocalLit book preview: In-depth, pictorial look at Ottawa’s tent colony for TB patients: The year was 1904 and antibiotics were not yet developed

And the very last LocalLit book review is here.

2021 YMCA Gala nets more than $205,000: Funds will benefit Y’s Mission Strong Fund

7 students in D-86 in Joliet perform in LMEA music festival: The festival takes place at Lincoln-Way Central High School in New Lenox 

An Extraordinary Life: Virginia Fleming took a culinologist approach to life: Former New Lenox resident understood the components of a good life and applied them well

Pets of the Week: Nov. 8: Will County rescues have dogs and cats for adoption

Lockport man runs 11 5k races in 11 days: Virtual races were part of the Forest Preserve District of Will County’s Harvest Hustle program 

Grundy Bank donates $250,000 to Morris Community YMCA: Gift will fund the Y’s Capital Campaign and support the The GrundyBank/Ron Wohlwend Childhood Development Fund 

New Habitat for Humanity home will honor memory of Romeoville veteran: The construction is one of several events for Veterans Build 2021

Frankfort farm that serves people with special needs receives $4,000 donation: On Nov. 4, 100+ Women Who Care of Will County donated $4,000 to Navarro Farm.

Morris Hospital nurse gives patient’s puppy a temporary home: Rambo: ‘She just offered to take him home and take care of him until I was able to get him’

Veterans: Get your seasonal flu shot this Wednesday in Channahon: The Edward Hines Jr. VAMC Outreach Team will be at village hall

Silver Cross Hospital earns 14th straight ‘A’ Hospital Safety Grade by The Leapfrog Group: And that’s not the only patient safety recognition Silver Cross has earned in 2021 

5 brothers from a single Joliet family served in World War II at the same time: A handful of laminated Herald-News clippings tell their story

New Lenox native to perform trumpet concerto with CYSO on Sunday – and it was written just for her: Mary Elizabeth Bowden will also recive CYSO 2021 Alumni Award at the concert 

5 Things to do in Will County: Music, military history, craft shows, autumn walk: And ‘Haphazardly Ever After’ is a comedy about ‘four obnoxious, bratty, adult children who do not live up to their royal titles’

Silver Cross Foundation appoints 2 new members: Dr. Mark Danielson and Nick Tyrell join the foundation’s board of directors

Veterans Day observances in Will and Grundy counties: Here’s how to honor veterans in a formal way

Why all the breakthrough COVID cases at Edward Hospital?: Numbers don’t tell the entire story at Naperville hospital 

Morris Hospital earns 7th straight ‘A’ Hospital Safety Grade by The Leapfrog Group: Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services also recognized Morris Hospital in 2021

Help a Joliet hospice by baking holiday cookies: Register for “Baking Memories” virtual cooking demo fundraiser by Nov. 22 

And finally:

He was diagnosed 11 months ago, I wrote his story in June, and he died Monday.

Prayers/thoughts for his family.

He’s just 6 but he’s already an honorary police officer and a superhero: Supporters planning car show in honor of Channahon boy battling cancer




Illustration by Matt Coundiff for "Visage."

Friday, November 13, 2020

Story Round-Up: Features in The Herald-News, Nov. 6 through Nov. 13

 Whew!

That's the best way to describe the past few weeks.

So thankful for interesting and meaningful work to keep me occupied. Not only are the COVID numbers rising, two people from WriteOn Joliet are battling it (one was hospitalized), Ed Calkins tested positive, a family member had all the symptoms but wound up testing negative, and a good family friend died suddenly early Sunday morning.

To say I'm ready to slip into writing some fiction tonight and tomorrow where I control the world is an understatement!

Below are my features stories (thirteen so far) that have posted this week. I have eight more completed (yes, eight!) but they have not posted online, so I will share them next week.

I hope everyone reading this has a safe and blessed Friday.


WRITERS

If you're a writer anywhere in the world, you're welcome to join WriteOn Joliet's Facebook pageWe'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.


ARTISTS

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


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


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.

Catholic Charities of Joliet executive director resigns

LocalLit book spotlight: 'Growing Up In Kinmundy Junction' by Kenneth Lee McGee of Plainfield

And read the review HERE.

'Save Our Restaurants' is the goal for this Sunday's peaceful protest in Joliet, Shorewood

An Extraordinary Life: Dying Marine veteran receives surprise honor at daughter's wedding in Lockport

Organizers suspend free monthly veterans breakfasts for November 

Pets of the Week: Nov. 9

Will County Hospitals see increase in COVID cases — but feel prepared to meet them 

Shorewood honors WWII veteran with a 100th birthday celebration 

Morris Hospital seeing more covid-positive patients than last spring

COVID Coping: Joliet woman has assembled 29 puzzles since March: 'It’s more than a distraction. It’s a problem I can solve'

Joliet couple had dream wedding at Will County courthouse 

Shorewood honors WWII veteran with a 100th birthday celebration 



Illustration by Matt Coundiff for "Visage."




Friday, November 15, 2019

Story Round-Up: Features in The Herald-News, Nov. 10 through Nov. 15

Good Friday morning! Is everyone ready for the weekend?

It's a bit of working weekend for me.

I'll have the calendars to finish up for Monday's publication, and I have the last bit of Phyllis' memoir to type up. I'm also working on the first round of edits for an author in WriteOn Joliet.

Speaking of WriteOn Joliet, the group (of which I co-lead) is hosting its third anthology release party tonight from 6 to 8:30 p.m. at The Book Market, 2365 Plainfield Road in Crest Hill.

The latest anthology will, of course, be for sale (and so will the previous releases), along with works by members in the group, including all BryonySeries titles.

I don't have copies of Cornell Dyer and the Flu yet (KDP just approved it yesterday, but it's available online, and I'l be taking orders at a special sale price tonight.

If you can't make it out tonight, and you still want a copy of the anthology, you can purchase it here.

Have a wonderful day, readers, writers, and BryonySeries fans! :)

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.

Joliet veteran reflects on his service

A very practical view of military service.

https://www.theherald-news.com/2019/10/10/joliet-veteran-reflects-on-his-service/d5ej087/


VIDEO: Another reason this Joliet #veteran served

It wasn't all about being lofty.

https://www.theherald-news.com/video/id/8632e808-c790-4f8b-9a35-185a914b5ebb.html


A look back at the faithful service of Joliet area veterans 

Daniel Bush said this of his father Carl, "He was able to live his life the way he wanted to – taking care of his wife and his children. America gave him that opportunity and he never forgot it.”

https://www.theherald-news.com/2019/10/16/a-look-back-at-the-faithful-service-of-joliet-area-veterans/dfuwfot/


LocalLit author spotlight: Granddaughter honors Lockport veteran

This newsletter this story references went out on Friday - but if you'd like to read it, I'll send you mine. Message me at bryonyseries@gmail.com.

https://www.theherald-news.com/2019/11/07/locallit-author-spotlight-granddaughter-honors-lockport-veteran/dqpfk5h/


Not the typical library book group
Romeoville library's over 21 book discussion program still going strong 

Find out how you can join - and why you should

https://www.theherald-news.com/2019/11/12/not-the-typical-library-book-group/aep3ghs/


Crest Hill book store to host after-hours event on Friday 

The menu is amazing. Click on the link and read for yourself.

https://www.theherald-news.com/2019/11/12/crest-hill-book-store-to-host-after-hours-event-on-friday/al5nf76/


'Everyone is a part of the show'
Former music director of Joliet diocese brings choir for Rialto concert 

An immersive holiday experience for all ages.

https://www.theherald-news.com/2019/11/12/everyone-is-a-part-of-the-show/dwll2ri


Rialto's Christmas concert to feature Joliet organist


“First of all, even the look of it is very impressive,” Beverly Holt said. “It’s a theater organ and very few places have an organ like that, the size of it. “

https://www.theherald-news.com/2019/11/12/rialtos-christmas-concert-to-feature-joliet-organist/ajauygn/


LocalLit book spotlight: 'Elspeth' by Sue Mydliak of Joliet 

Preview of Tuesday's book review about a Scottish witch

https://www.theherald-news.com/2019/11/14/locallit-book-spotlight-elspeth-by-sue-mydliak-of-joliet/d7bwohb/


This past week, I was asked to share my faith and writing. Listen now. 

https://www.spreaker.com/user/gifts4glorypodcast/denise-m-baran-unland-author?fbclid=IwAR0VKqxjZlJQ5MOy77rxuQhGp7QGtsDSpHsYYpmXZ-NklCLokr4DkvP_OIM



Illustration by Matt Coundiff for "Visage."

Monday, November 11, 2019

Community News: Nov. 9 and Nov.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.


Plainfield native exemplifies legacy of U.S. Navy Seabees

https://www.theherald-news.com/2019/11/04/plainfield-native-exemplifies-legacy-of-u-s-navy-seabees/a9z7f6a/


When military veterans are applying for jobs
Make sure never to ask these questions

https://www.theherald-news.com/2019/11/04/when-military-veterans-are-applying-for-jobs/ap0v1pj/


Joliet soldier promoted

https://www.theherald-news.com/2019/11/04/joliet-soldier-promoted/ahgobz9/


Plainfield resident receives medal

https://www.theherald-news.com/2019/11/04/plainfield-resident-receives-medal/a8gdsc5/


Reducing stress on military families, honoring veterans

https://www.theherald-news.com/2019/11/09/reducing-stress-on-military-families-honoring-veterans/agkgrjj/


Orland Park native exemplifies legacy of U.S. Navy Seabees

https://www.theherald-news.com/2019/11/04/orland-park-native-exemplifies-legacy-of-u-s-navy-seabees/aollwpy/


Organization that serves #veterans  in Will, Grundy counties receives donation

https://www.theherald-news.com/2019/11/06/organization-that-serves-veterans-in-will-grundy-counties-receives-donation/aczqabh/


Retired Channahon police chief takes Honor Flight

https://www.theherald-news.com/2019/11/07/retired-channahon-police-chief-takes-honor-flight/au2110/


Pets of the Week: Nov. 10

https://www.theherald-news.com/2019/11/04/pets-of-the-week-nov-10/dmk702j/


Bolingbrook parent mentors increase skills

https://www.theherald-news.com/2019/08/28/bolingbrook-parent-mentors-increase-skills/agfdlxh/


Ginny the comfort dog visits Romeoville school 

https://www.theherald-news.com/2019/09/23/ginny-the-comfort-dog-visits-romeoville-school/afscxli/


Bolingbrook students study caterpillars

https://www.theherald-news.com/2019/09/23/bolingbrook-students-study-caterpillars/a1vwez9/


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

Friday, November 8, 2019

Story Round-Up: Features in The Herald-News, Nov. 3 through Nov. 8

It's super-busy Friday, and I'm a super-tired editor, so here's a few quick highlights:

The proof copy for Cornell Dyer and the Flu arrived yesterday, which I hope to read over the weekend, in-between work and two side projects I'm tackling.

I doubt I'll have copies in time for WriteOn Joliet's anthology release party on Nov. 15 (Hope to see you there!), but I will be taking orders and selling the book at "in-person" prices, so please stop and check it out.

I was invited to participate in a podcast, which we'll be recording this evening.

In the meantime, please check out the stories about some extraordinary people and worthwhile events coming up in the area.

Have a wonderful day, readers, writers, and BryonySeries fans! :)

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.


An Extraordinary Life: Joliet native was 'always the servant'


People will probably most remember Chuck Lennon for this Henry Ford quote: “You can do anything if you have enthusiasm,” which Chuck had printed on the back of his business cards.

https://www.theherald-news.com/2019/11/03/an-extraordinary-life-joliet-native-was-always-the-servant/a3tn8ak/


VIDEO: ER doctor at Lockport career fair planned hands-on activity 

https://www.theherald-news.com/video/id/b871da1c-a4f3-4ae0-b6c2-32a9bae433e0.html


A 'taste' of Chicago right in Joliet
CUT 158 Chophouse offers large cuts of premium meats, hosting 2 events

 "It's all prime cuts," Bill Dimitroulas said. "The size we offer is way greater than any other restaurant in the area."

https://www.theherald-news.com/2019/11/06/a-taste-of-chicago-right-in-joliet/d2v7og0/


A simple way to feed the hungry
Joliet business owner to receive prestigious award for micro pantry movement

 "So many were too embarrassed or prideful to ask for help, or did not want the hassle completing paperwork," Jeff Eberhard said in the health department news release. "The micro pantries allow them to just stop by and take what they need for their families and children.”

https://www.theherald-news.com/2019/11/06/a-simple-way-to-feed-the-hungry/dc147b9/


Making military history come alive
Traveling exhibit to be part of Veterans Day event in downtown Joliet

Robert Dymek has histories of battles and the items on display on the poster boards. Sometimes, he even has information about the people whose uniforms and memorabilia he is displaying and is able to share their stories.


He’s heard grandparents pointing out uniforms to their grandchildren and saying, “This is what I wore.”

https://www.theherald-news.com/2019/11/05/making-military-history-come-alive/djxbacw/


A 'legacy' for student musicians in Joliet
Alumnus will direct Joliet Central High School symphonic band in unique composition 


“It’s such a rare thing for any school to be able to have a composer that’s an alumni to come and write a piece for their band," Jermaine Stegall said. "I hope people like the piece.”

https://www.theherald-news.com/2019/11/05/a-legacy-for-student-musicians-in-joliet/dlg8p1/


LocalLit Preview about story of Lockport veteran this Sunday

You won't want to miss it.

https://www.theherald-news.com/2019/11/08/locallit-preivew-about-story-of-lockport-veteran-this-sunday/ay8jncw/




Illustration by Matt Coundiff for "Visage."




Wednesday, November 29, 2017

Community News: Nov. 29, 2017

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




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



'Hallelujah' Soup Supper & Cookie Sale to be held at Coal City United Methodist Church on Dec. 2



Holiday food safety tips from the Illinois Department of Public Health



Aspiring chef shares cooking demonstration with Joliet Central students



Boy Scout Troop 50 to host pancake breakfast Dec. 10



Kindergarten students mark Veterans Day



Joliet medical center honors veterans with free meal



JTHS Foundation awards students and staff more than $22,000 in grants