Story Round-Up: Features in The Herald-News, Dec. 13 through Dec. 19

 Good morning!

I have eleven stories online to share with you today, including the three-part housing story I was asked to wrote.

More stories will go live over the weekend and next week (I'm off most of next week, except for half of Christmas Eve and Christmas Day). So please check back at shawlocal.com/the-herald-news.

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

During this holiday season, please consider becoming a "Herald Angel" in Will County or Grundy County. The need for your help is high and - in some cases - truly unprecedented.

We are also still collecting BryonySeries children's books for Santa Services and the Will County Children's Advocacy Center. 

We have a collection box for books at The Book Market in Crest Hill. 

Or you can order BryonySeries children's books from Amazon (our BryonySeries store is being renovated) and ship to and to Denise M. Unland, P.O. Box 2789, Joliet, IL, 60436.

For bulk rates and more information, email us at bryonyseries@gmail.com.

We will be collecting books throughout the holiday season.

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

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

And have a great Friday!

BryonySeries/WriteOn Joliet Christmas/Holiday Books

Bertrand and the Christmas Surprise

Cornell Dyer and the Flu

Write Where We Are: Holiday Edition: Stories, poems, and essays for the holiday season

Calendar

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

For December, all activities center around giving.

To participate, visit bryonyseries.com/ourcalendar.

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

We have no more events scheduled until 2026 (but lots of exciting plans are in the works for next year!).

But please consider popping into The Book Market and donating a BryonySeries children's book (or two) to kids in need.

For details, please read this post.

What is the BryonySeries?

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

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

BryonySeries books-in-progress

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

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

Brainy Ann: The fifth book in The Girls of the BryonySeries is outlined and the first chapter is written, hurray! Jennifer Wainwright, who welcomed her first child into the world last year, is nearly done with the cover portrait. I let this book slide for other BryonySeries projects...and I'm still letting it (overall) slide, I'm afraid. But I'm hoping we release it early 2026.

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

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

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

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

RECIPE OF THE WEEK

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

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

Check out the weekly recipe here.

WRITERS

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

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

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

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

ARTISTS

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

NEWSLETTERS

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

SOCIAL MEDIA

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

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

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

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

QUESTIONS

Email me at bryonyseries@gmail.com.

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

FEATURES

Be a Herald Angel: Help Will County United Way meet ‘unprecedented’ community need

https://www.shawlocal.com/the-herald-news/2025/11/26/be-a-herald-angel-help-will-county-united-way-meet-unprecedented-community-need/

Be a Herald Angel: Help Grundy County United Way meet high community need

https://www.shawlocal.com/morris-herald-news/2025/11/25/be-a-herald-angel-help-grundy-county-united-way-meet-high-community-need/

Can’t afford a house in Will County? You’re not alone.

https://www.shawlocal.com/the-herald-news/2025/12/11/cant-afford-your-house-in-will-county-youre-not-alone/

‘It’s not favorable’: Will County residents struggle to find diverse housing options

From recent college grads to retired people, residents met with affordability crunch

https://www.shawlocal.com/the-herald-news/2025/12/12/need-a-place-of-my-own-will-county-residents-struggle-to-find-diverse-housing-options/

Can Will County fix its housing affordability crisis? Leaders explore new solutions

Even when housing is available, funding resources are slim

https://www.shawlocal.com/the-herald-news/2025/12/13/exploring-solutions-to-will-countys-housing-affordability-crisis/

Illinois food pantries receive $100,000 in missing money through ICash

https://www.shawlocal.com/news/2025/12/18/illinois-food-pantries-receive-100000-in-missing-money-through-i-cash/

Troy 30-C School District honors bus driver for helping Santa with annual gift giving

https://www.shawlocal.com/the-herald-news/2025/12/18/troy-30-c-school-district-honors-bus-driver-for-helping-santa-with-annual-gift-giving/

Joliet restaurant Joy of Eating closes its doors for good

https://www.shawlocal.com/the-herald-news/2025/12/18/joliet-restaurant-joy-of-eating-closes-its-doors-for-good/

Crest Hill business collecting toys for Westyn’s Wish

https://www.shawlocal.com/the-herald-news/2025/12/15/crest-hill-business-collecting-toys-for-westyns-wish/

Joliet man arrested after robbery at auto parts store

https://www.shawlocal.com/the-herald-news/2025/12/17/joliet-man-arrested-following-robbery-at-auto-parts-store/

Will County Pets of the Week: Dec. 15, 2025

Will County rescues have dogs and cats for adoption

https://www.shawlocal.com/the-herald-news/2025/12/15/will-county-pets-of-the-week-dec-15-2025/

Illustration by Matt Coundiff for "Visage"

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

Good morning!

I have eleven news and features stories to share with you this week. But more will be posted over holiday weekend. So be sure to check back on The Herald-News site: shawlocal.com/the-herald-news.

Most of my BryonySeries focus this past week has been on copyediting "The Fifth," the second novel by Ed Calkins, Steward of Tara, since we are hoping to have books for Calkins Day on February 13.

If you're new to the BryonySeries and this blog, here is a post that with links that explains Calkins Day.

For a list of BryonySeries projects in progress, check this story roundup from three weeks ago.

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 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.

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’s Great American Bagel is now The Curator’s Cafe: The café will display and sell the work of local artists

After more than 5 decades, Joliet Boys & Girls Club employee retires: Frank Bati also is a former member of the club

Visitors must mask-up at Silver Cross Hospital in New Lenox with COVID rising: Earlier last week. Silver Cross had 40 COVID-positive patients

Grundy County micro pantries aren’t perfect, but fill food gaps: Brent Newman, CEO, Grundy County Housing Authority: ‘People take what they need, and people leave what they can’

Plainfield Tap House Grill shuts down, new restaurant coming to same location

Latin fusion restaurant opening in Plainfield: Altiro Latin Fusion also has locations in Aurora, Geneva and Wheaton

Will County residents still can apply for energy assistance: Households must be at or below 200% of the federal poverty level

Joliet East alumni night set for Jan. 19: Varsity basketball teams will honor the alumni during a double header

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

Pets of the Week: Jan. 1-6, 2024: Will County rescues have dogs and cats for adoption

The Local Scene: Pop-up bakery at Shorewood cafe: Here are 5 things to do this weekend

Illustration by Matt Coundiff for "Visage"

Story Round-Up: Features in The Herald-News, Sept. 4 through Sept. 10

Good morning!

I have sixteen stories to share with you today and quite a few not yet posted, so watch for them over the long weekend.

Quite a bit has changed on the fiction front, so here is a quick recap.

First of all, I am working straight through the weekend, and I am excited and honored since it is the twentieth anniversary of 9/11 tomorrow. I've also been working on a big piece that will run tomorrow, too, and I'm thankful I was asked to write it.

And then, after I clock out from work on Sunday, an intense week of "other" writing will begin.

Thanks to COVID (again), I did not make it down to Raleigh (again) this summer to see Sarah. So I am using some of my vacation time to take two at-home writing retreats. The first one starts on Monday - barring any emergencies, for it's been a year of them, it seems.

The goal is to write a good working draft of half of Call of the Siren (the second book in the Limbo trilogy) during this retreat and then write a good working draft of the second half.

Please send lots of good thoughts because this is not as fun as it sounds. 

We have another book in The Adventures of Cornell Dyer series to share (Cornell Dyer and the "Mistical" Being, co-written by Rebekah, who also needs surgery now). Our artist Sue Midlock is nearly done with the chapter heading illustrations. 

Sue is recovering nicely now from that surgery but may have another issue, ugh! So please keep the good thoughts coming. 

I finished most of  Cornell Dyer and the Calcium-Deficient Bones over Labor Day weekend. So when Sue is done with the art for "Mistical Being," we will send her the next round of ideas.

Timothy is currently outlining another Cornell Dyer story. This one is another parody and features a character named Sherman Homes.

A few weeks back, Sarah 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 here, here, and here. 

I also have in my possession the first piece of completed cover art for the "Girls of the BryonySeries" series for tween girls. It's beautiful and it shows that artist Jennifer Wainright can draw anything from werewolves to portraits! She was working on art for the next two books (I have eight planned in all) - until she was in a bad motorcycle accident. Please send up good thoughts for her, too!

I have one "Girls of the BryonySeries" book ready for editing, a second in progress, and some really skeletal outlines for the rest. So I'm not lacking in projects, just time - but I have three days this weekend and intend to make good use of them. 

Now back to the sixteen 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 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

Baran-Unland: COVID is still here. Be mindful this Labor Day weekend: Mask up, step back, be safe

An Extraordinary Life: Joliet WWII veteran was a ‘a valedictorian in the school of life’: Glenn Masek served his country, his family and fellow seniors with intention and a big smile

D. 86 in Joliet recognizes employees for their years of service: Employees were recognized for five, 10, 15, 20, 25, 30, and 35 years of service with District 86 

ISP will conduct special patrols Saturday through Monday: Patrols include occupant restraint enforcement and distracted driving

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

Mystery Diner in Plainfield: From calzones to cannoli, you’ll love Vita Bella Pizza: Venue offers wide variety of Italian cuisine

Storm rips down power lines, trees in Channahon: Reports of a tornado in the Channahon, Minooka area unconfirmed Tuesday evening

LocalLit book review: ‘Joy and Fear: The Beatles, Chicago and the 1960s’: Joliet Junior College professor examines the impact of #TheBeatles against the backdrop of Chicago

Scholarship recipients in the Diocese of Joliet get a financial boost: Kazma Family Foundation is increasing its 4-year scholarships by $2,000 each 

Tricia Simpson, Hollywood Casino Joliet receive philanthropic awards: People for Channahon Parks Foundation partnered with ExxonMobil to recognize individuals and businesses

8 ways to help the hungry in September: Village of Plainfield co-hosting community-wide food drive with other area organizations

Joliet homeless shelter receives $20,000 donation: Rotary Club of New Lenox held golf outing to raise the money

Joliet Public Library hosting a blues concert on Saturday - and a special offer for new patrons

Coal City native serving on Navy ship built with steel from the World Trade Center: Petty Officer 3rd Class Danielle Good was just 3 years old at the time of the attacks

LocalLit book review: Mokena author delivers novel of heroism inspired by 9/11: ‘A Dangerous Freedom’ captures lasting impact of events 20 years ago

Tornado warning for Will County

Illustration by Matt Coundiff for "Visage."

A Bit of Inspiration, a Lot of Information

Today I have two sets of links.: one link to inspire, the rest to inform.

The first is the link to the poem by Henry Wadsworth Longellow recites in English class in Bryony.

The rest of the links are news releases I briefed for The Herald-News.

Today I'm editing for clients, working on fiction, working out, running one errand, popping into two meetings, drinking coffee, and taking time to breathe and enjoy the day.

I hope today brings you many blessings.  Here is the link to A Psalm of Life.

https://www.poetryfoundation.org/poems/44644/a-psalm-of-life


Parts of Ninth Street in Lockport closed Monday through Friday

https://www.theherald-news.com/2020/07/19/parts-of-ninth-street-in-lockport-closed-monday-through-friday/awhm2oz/


When healthy eating becomes unhealthy

https://www.theherald-news.com/2020/07/13/when-healthy-eating-becomes-unhealthy-orthorexia/axvbirl/


ExxonMobil Joliet Refinery donates 3,000 masks to hospitals in Joliet and New Lenox 

https://www.theherald-news.com/2020/07/14/exxonmobil-joliet-refinery-donates-3-000-masks-to-hospitals-in-joliet-and-new-lenox/dtvnjus/


Plainfield police to hosted memorial service Wednesday for K-9 Kody

https://www.theherald-news.com/2020/07/14/plainfield-police-to-host-memorial-service-wednesday-for-k-9-kody/abt74cw/


Romeoville to hold parade to honor essential workers

https://www.theherald-news.com/2020/07/15/romeoville-to-hold-parade-to-honor-essential-workers/ax45znf/


Concrete poured in new D. 202 school in Plainfield 

https://www.theherald-news.com/2020/07/14/concrete-poured-in-new-d-202-school-in-plainfield/antzeyb/


New Lenox Community Park District receives award to build fitness court

https://www.theherald-news.com/2020/07/14/new-lenox-community-park-district-receives-award-to-build-fitness-court/ar68a9j/


Forest Preserve District of Will County launches summer paddling program with ‘bring your own boat’ format

https://www.theherald-news.com/2020/07/14/forest-preserve-district-of-will-county-launches-summer-paddling-program-with-bring-your-own-boat-format/aq33vgr/


Romeoville Community Food Pantry receives $5,000 grant

https://www.theherald-news.com/2020/07/14/romeoville-community-food-pantry-receives-5-000-grant/afdca9k/


Girl Scout Cookies back for a limited time

https://www.theherald-news.com/2020/07/14/girl-scout-cookies-back-for-a-limited-time/av6d5pb/


Joliet D. 86 principal receives award from University of St. Francis 

https://www.theherald-news.com/2020/07/15/joliet-d-86-principal-receives-award-from-university-of-st-francis/afg6ba4/

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

To Uplift and Entertain You

Good morning!

Chasing after myself a little bit this morning - and that was after waking up at 2:30 a.m. with a GREAT line I couldn't wait to use in a story.

Except I couldn't wake up enough to write it down. So I just kept repeating it to myself until I was certain I had it. And then I woke up a couple more times, still repeating it, to make sure I didn't forget it.

That led into a very interesting and creepy dream about a movie I was semi-watching/ semi living ('cuz that's how dream work) about a husband and wife who think the other is trying to kill them.

It did star Bruce Willis.

Bits of the dream remain. The great line however, is long gone.

Today I'm sharing some of the positive, non-covid news happening around my community, along with some of the blogs (not mine) that I've recently read and enjoyed.

Hope you enjoy them, too.

Stay safe, stay well, be blessed.


POSITIVE COMMUNITY NEWS


D. 202 in Plainfield supports class of 202 with yard signs 

https://www.theherald-news.com/2020/05/17/d-202-in-plainfield-supports-class-of-202-with-yard-signs/dcq0vm3/



Crest Hill teacher receives national educator award

https://www.theherald-news.com/2020/05/12/crest-hill-teacher-receives-national-educator-award/a4ngmq9/


D. 202 students earn top prizes in Plainfield library short story contest 

https://www.theherald-news.com/2020/05/12/d-202-students-earn-top-prizes-in-plainfield-library-short-story-contest/am4bxmj/


Pets of the Week: May 18

https://www.theherald-news.com/2020/05/17/pets-of-the-week-may-18/dkmo21k/


Bolingbrook church opens micro food pantry

https://www.theherald-news.com/2020/05/12/bolingbrook-church-opens-micro-food-pantry/a1auqqu/


Will County announces first two Earth Day Passport winners

https://www.theherald-news.com/2020/05/12/will-county-announces-first-two-earth-day-passport-winners/a7aw40o/


Romeoville HS senior named National Merit Scholarship Winner

https://www.theherald-news.com/2020/05/15/romeoville-hs-senior-named-national-merit-scholarship-winner/aj81ryr/


Funds available to help income-eligible households with utility bills 

https://www.theherald-news.com/2020/05/13/funds-available-to-help-income-eligible-households-with-utility-bills/ahuxalq/


JCHS Alumni Spotlight: Guadalupe Medina, class of 2019 

https://www.theherald-news.com/2020/05/13/jchs-alumni-spotlight-guadalupe-medina-class-of-2019/aj2981h/


Teachers at D. 202 in Plainfield show support for graduating senior

https://www.theherald-news.com/2020/05/17/teachers-at-d-202-in-plainfield-show-support-for-graduating-seniors/d4ael36/


BLOGS


WRITERS ARE READERS: "The Romance Writer's Phrase Book" 

https://www.writeonjoliet.com/post/writers-are-readers-the-romance-writer-s-phrase-book


"Whatever It May Be" by R. Michael Markley 

https://rmichaelmarkley.com/2020/04/28/whatever-it-may-be/?fbclid=IwAR1w6DFNs7rst5RWe04cQqUqjX0XVR_9Vy2aohbCIQAntgApmVqS3cQfWbg


"Thank You, Dr. Whoever You Are" by Kenneth Lee McGee

https://kennethleemcgee.com/thank-you-dr-whoever-you-are/


"Positively Sunrise" by Mauverneen Blevins

http://maureenblevins.blogspot.com/2020/04/positively-sunrise.html


"What A Publisher Can Offer (And What They Shouldn't Offer)" by James Pressler

http://www.writingandtheprocess.com/2020/05/what-publisher-can-offer-and-what-they.html?fbclid=IwAR3KKL9yPDS3QySHW_CDg-RceXLT-yctIaDEGFcrtCGm6jDMAVHYx6EI1es


"Placing Yourself In Your Story" by James Pressler

http://www.writingandtheprocess.com/2020/05/placing-yourself-in-your-story.html?fbclid=IwAR3IYYDgmn0YDejPGFDDDBol_T_4x_f_5b1Y7zTj5iReujgxpvMSCM2N_no


“I Don’t Want a Dead Bird!” By Ken McGee

https://kennethleemcgee.com/i-dont-want-a-dead-bird/


"Just because something happened doesn't mean it is automatically believed. Non-fiction isn't a stamp of approval."

http://www.writingandtheprocess.com/2020/05/amazing-stories-maybe-too-amazing.html?fbclid=IwAR01n9mbXXQTLX9zt3xDNcEn3oQlV9mdCBCteLITzW8MZXbHlmVEkmosYfo


"Positively Routine" by Mauverneen Blevins

http://maureenblevins.blogspot.com/2020/05/positively-routine.html

Illustration by Kathleen Rose Van Pelt for "Bryony."

Story Round-Up: Features in The Herald-News, March 22 through March 27

Super busy Friday (what else is new?) and looking forward to a great at-home weekend.

I have a Cornell breakfast with Timothy (at home) where we'll outline the next book in The Adventures of Cornell Dyer series and (hopefully) finalize two key pages on the updated BryonySeries website: Fetes and Feasts and Sue's Diner.

And then I have quite a few notes to carefully read regarding the first several chapters of The Phoenix, the latest story in the BryonySeries.

Two people reached out to me and asked if they could be beta readers. One read the "drop of blood trilogy" when it first came out and the other hasn't read any of my books. Both readers have very different responses to these first few chapters (one overall likes it, the other overall dislikes it), so I'm very interested to learn what is and what is not working for them.

On the editing front, I have the final changes to make to Phyllis' memoir and the second round of editing for a client to tackle, which I started last week.

Be safe, be well, be full of joy and hope.

Non-bylined features:

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

Or search by topic (people, pets, A and E, faith, health, and food) at theherald-news.com.

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 join 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. 

Books and Such

Information on my books (including where to buy) along with upcoming events is at bryonyseries.com.

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.

What it’s like getting tested for COVID-19

Will County resident had been in contact with someone else who tested positive for coronavirus 

https://www.theherald-news.com/2020/03/19/what-its-like-getting-tested-for-covid-19/adq9bhn/


I home-schooled; you can, too
Tips and encouragement for educating your child during COVID-19

https://www.theherald-news.com/2020/03/20/i-home-schooled-you-can-too/aa79rh2/


Tips for homeschooling during the shutdown: 'It's not public school at home'
Parents scramble to find resources to keep children learning, engaged

https://www.theherald-news.com/2020/03/20/tips-for-homeschooling-during-the-shutdown-its-not-public-school-at-home/a28byof/


Joliet-area stores offer special senior hours for shopping

https://www.theherald-news.com/2020/03/20/joliet-area-stores-offer-special-senior-hours-for-shopping/ansif6a/


LocalLit essay New Lenox student Taylor Issa
'A Sailor’s Experience as part of Christopher Columbus’ First Expedition to the Americas' 

https://www.theherald-news.com/2020/03/03/locallit-essay-new-lenox-student-taylor-issa/akaj8i2/


10 tips for caring for a pet during the COVID-19 pandemic

https://www.theherald-news.com/2020/03/20/10-tips-for-caring-for-a-pet-during-the-covid-19-pandemic/a34byc9/


Owners of companion animals: practice good hygiene, especially during coronavirus

https://www.theherald-news.com/2020/03/20/owners-of-companion-animals-practice-good-hygiene/aj4phnz/


Will County resident tested for COVID-19 finally gets test results

https://www.theherald-news.com/2020/03/23/will-county-resident-tested-for-covid-19-finally-gets-test-results/a6rbqej/


Fighting back against COVID-19: treatments and vaccines in development

https://www.theherald-news.com/2020/03/23/fighting-back-against-covid-19-treatments-and-vaccines-in-development/a7dzi9a/


Hand sanitizer is not your car’s best friend
Crest Hill Milex owner gives tips for safely keeping cars disinfected

https://www.theherald-news.com/2020/03/24/hand-sanitizer-is-not-your-cars-best-friend/a9d34z2/


Convenience foods during the coronavirus - here's what's trending 

https://www.theherald-news.com/2020/02/03/convenience-foods-during-the-coronavirus-heres-whats-trending/d4n4rj3/


LocalLit book review: 'Miracle of an Ordinary Guy' by Michael Altenhoff of Plainfield 

https://www.theherald-news.com/2020/03/23/locallit-book-review-miracle-of-an-ordinary-guy-by-michael-altenhoff-of-plainfield/a4v0b2d/


Joliet food pantry director worried about running out of food

https://www.theherald-news.com/2020/03/25/joliet-food-pantry-director-worried-about-running-out-of-food/aluwf84/


Joliet-area teachers take to the streets
Social distancing parades provide safe, in-person connections

https://www.theherald-news.com/2020/03/26/joliet-area-teachers-take-to-the-streets/dbrhwr1/


LocalLit book spotlight: 'Necessary Death' by R. Michael Markley of Joliet 

https://www.theherald-news.com/2020/03/26/locallit-book-spotlight-necessary-death-by-r-michael-of-joliet/arrrc87/

Illustration by Matt Coundiff for "Visage."

Community News: March 11, 2020 (and a quick commentary)

Good morning readers, writers, and BryonySeries fans!

Some extra assignments at work this morning means it's an extremely compressed day.

So in perfect BryonySeries "Harold Matthews" style, I'll leave you with a nice quote from literature and my best best that your day is full of blessings.


"All that is gold does not glitter, not all those who wander are lost; the old that is strong does not wither, deep roots are not reached by the frost. From the ashes a fire shall be woken, a light from the shadows shall spring; renenwed shall be blade that was broken, the crownless again shall be king."

—J.R.R. Tolkien, The Fellowship of the Ring



Check out the awesome things people are doing.

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


Joliet Township High School congratulates February Students of the Month 

https://www.theherald-news.com/lists/2020/03/04/cd3c12116c38480d9f313cb06129d924/index.xml?page=1


Plainfield North HS student builds micro-food pantry for Eagle Scout project 

https://www.theherald-news.com/2020/03/11/plainfield-north-hs-student-builds-micro-food-pantry-for-eagle-scout-project/dlxsxk5/


Franciscan Sisters of the Sacred Heart in Frankfort to host Lenten programs

https://www.theherald-news.com/2020/03/06/franciscan-sisters-of-the-sacred-heart-in-frankfort-to-host-lenten-programs/a5kk05u/


Joliet church to host Lenten event

https://www.theherald-news.com/2020/03/06/joliet-church-to-host-lenten-event/a2do990/


Joliet students make bible covers 

https://www.theherald-news.com/articles/2020/03/06/190741f8ae6f46c4a17d72bf78fac87b/index.xml


NEWSLETTERS

Sign up for the Will County Go Guide

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


Sign up for the LocalLit Short Story Newsletter

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


Sign up for The Munsonville Times

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

Community News: April 18 and April 19, 2019

Lots to share today. Please scroll by interest.

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


Joliet students present a live version of Lenten meditation

https://www.theherald-news.com/lists/2019/04/18/a6b027dbf13f489495b412bd20a28e50/index.xml


ART AND ENTERTAINMENT


Short film festival coming to Lockport

https://www.theherald-news.com/2019/04/18/short-film-festival-coming-to-lockport/aqwz3v1/


Joliet named Tree City USA for 28th consecutive year

https://www.theherald-news.com/2019/04/18/joliet-named-tree-city-usa-for-28th-consecutive-year/agafnpw/


Plainfield Library District unveils poetry anthology

https://www.theherald-news.com/2019/04/18/plainfield-library-district-unveils-poetry-anthology/aoc423d/

Joliet Junior College to host 'Bridges of Song' vocal festival on April 27
Choral Masterworks Concert will be held April 28

https://www.theherald-news.com/lists/2019/04/19/3bba95e65a85498b999dbbd85838fbaf/index.xml


Lewis University in Romeoville to host plane pull on April 27 

https://www.theherald-news.com/2019/04/17/lewis-university-in-romeoville-to-host-plane-pull-on-april-27/af4y32/


FOOD


Around Town: Thrive 

https://www.theherald-news.com/2019/04/15/around-town-thrive/aqxawz9/


Frankfort school hosted drive for food pantry

https://www.theherald-news.com/2019/04/17/frankfort-school-hosted-drive-for-food-pantry/a9cjcjd/


RECIPES

This cheesy, golden, puffed casserole is all about the eggs

https://www.theherald-news.com/2019/04/16/this-cheesy-golden-puffed-casserole-is-all-about-the-eggs/a5m2im0/


We made a deeply flavorful chicken tagine-in about an hour

https://www.theherald-news.com/2019/04/16/we-made-a-deeply-flavorful-chicken-tagine-in-about-an-hour/an6w138/


Herb-packed chimichurri sauce complements grilled steaks

https://www.theherald-news.com/2019/04/16/herb-packed-chimichurri-sauce-complements-grilled-steaks/a6vk3zl/


To make these tacos, which way will you cook the bacon?

https://www.theherald-news.com/2019/04/16/to-make-these-tacos-which-way-will-you-cook-the-bacon/addcfr/


This rice dish gets delish a with peas, feta and mint

https://www.theherald-news.com/2019/04/16/this-rice-dish-gets-delish-a-with-peas-feta-and-mint/ak232e0/


VIDEOS:

VIDEO: "Katia" by Alison Standish

Plainfield launched its very first poetry anthology eBook April 17, 2019 at the Plainfield Public Library District. @PPLD1

https://www.theherald-news.com/video/id/f4eaccf4-ac42-470b-bd9b-7253caafd35b.html


VIDEO "The Oppressed" by Beck Peterson 

Plainfield unveiled its very first poetry anthology eBook April 17, 2019 at the Plainfield Public Library District. @PPLD1

https://www.theherald-news.com/video/id/6211f0a0-36b4-4191-890a-21f820f59c62.html


VIDEO: "The Last Swim" by Donna Kohl 

Plainfield unveiled its very first poetry anthology eBook April 17, 2019 at the Plainfield Public Library District.

https://www.theherald-news.com/video/id/bc86032c-9eef-44ec-91be-40c52ee628e2.html


NEWSLETTERS

Sign up for the Will County Go Guide

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


Sign up for the LocalLit Short Story Newsletter

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


Sign up for The Munsonville Times

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

Illustration by Matt Coundiff for "Memories in the Kitchen: Bites and Nibbles from "Bryony." Follow him at www.facebook.com/artbymattcoundiff

Community News: Jan. 23 and Jan. 24, 2019

Check out upcoming events, some good recipes, 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.


Food resources in Will, Grundy counties 

https://www.theherald-news.com/2019/01/23/food-resources-in-will-grundy-counties-jan-9-2019/awlnm19/

Apply for Forest Preserve District of Will County juried art competition

https://www.theherald-news.com/2019/01/22/apply-for-forest-preserve-district-of-will-county-juried-art-competition/adhvl90/

Vegas Night is Feb. 2 at St. Joseph School in Manhattan 

https://www.theherald-news.com/2019/01/22/vegas-night-is-feb-2-at-st-joseph-school-in-manhattan/araq42y/

Plainfield school to host Galabration event

https://www.theherald-news.com/2019/01/22/plainfield-school-to-host-galabration-event/a7v5l7w/

Morris Hospital Auxiliary to host gala 

https://www.theherald-news.com/2019/01/22/morris-hospital-auxiliary-to-host-gala/actysiu/

Around Town: Aurelios Pizza in Plainfield 

https://www.theherald-news.com/2019/01/22/around-town-aurelios-pizza-in-plainfield/amusjmg/

Teaming up to help the New Lenox community 

https://www.theherald-news.com/2019/01/22/teaming-up-to-help-the-new-lenox-community/awpwt69/

Local students earn dean's list for fall 2018 

https://www.theherald-news.com/2019/01/22/local-students-earn-deans-list-for-fall-2018/aiw1m35/

Joliet Rotary donates dictionaries to D. 86 students 

https://www.theherald-news.com/2019/01/22/joliet-rotary-donates-dictionaries-to-d-86-students/abhjjcu/


Joliet students complete 2 service projects

https://www.theherald-news.com/2019/01/22/joliet-students-complete-2-service-projects/axgqpkm/


RECIPES

Chickpeas and escarole combine for a hearty flavor combo

https://www.theherald-news.com/2019/01/23/chickpeas-and-escarole-combine-for-a-hearty-flavor-combo/a4imo1b/


Salt turns out to be the key for ultratender white bean soup

https://www.theherald-news.com/2019/01/23/salt-turns-out-to-be-the-key-for-ultratender-white-bean-soup/ap9vnyt/


Cheesy nachos that are sure to get your party started 

https://www.theherald-news.com/2019/01/23/cheesy-nachos-that-are-sure-to-get-your-party-started/aw0ve7f/



A bean chili that's as rich and savory as any meat chili

https://www.theherald-news.com/2019/01/23/a-bean-chili-thats-as-rich-and-savory-as-any-meat-chili/avaeagf/



Can you make a flaky and crisp deep-dish pizza at home? Sure

https://www.theherald-news.com/2019/01/23/can-you-make-a-flaky-and-crisp-deep-dish-pizza-at-home-sure/aryabdo/

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 www.artworkbytopher.com.