OUR GOALS:  TO ENGAGE  TO ENRICH  TO EDUCATE  TO ENTERTAIN O u r People Up To Something: WINTER 2021 Grace Lutheran Church of La Grange, 200 North Catherine Avenue, La Grange, IL 60525, 708-352-0730-www.gracelg.org

WELCOME TO

As we enter the new year, we’re working to make sure that there are multiple ways for those in our OPUS community to receive information. To that end, we’re excited to introduce an updated communication plan:

The OPUS Newsletter will move to a quarterly format. The Newsletter will continue to include a message from Pastor Heidi, Grace happenings, Ministry Part- ner reports/volunteer opportunities, as well as the ever-popular articles of interests and humor. As always, the newsletter is available on the website, via e-mail and/or USPS mailing.

NEW! Time Together with OPUS & Friends, a twice monthly (?) e-news. This e-mail will include the most up-to-date information on prayer requests, announcements, as well as links to articles of interest. If you already receive the Newsletter via e-mail, you will automatically receive Time Together with OPUS & Friends e-news.

Do you have a friend that would like to receive Time Together with OPUS & Friends? Email [email protected] and make a request to begin receiving.

If you do not have e-mail available to you and would like to connect with someone that does who can keep you updated, call the Church Office (708-352-0730) and leave a message to be matched with a “News Buddy.” If you’d like to serve as a “News Buddy” to someone without an e-mail, please e-mail Alice Oscarson at [email protected].

For Pastor Heidi’s message See page 2 Dear OPUS Friends,

I am inclined to begin this letter with a hearty “Happy New Year!” But our lives are much more nuanced than that right now, aren’t they? There was so much grief and loneliness in 2020. Our country is experiencing historic levels of turmoil as this new year begins. Covid vaccines are here, but the rollout is slow and n Sunday, January 31 at uncertain as cases and deaths continue to O 11am, Grace Council will climb. So many of us were eager to close the host an Annual Meeting Forum via 2020 chapter of our lives and move into something new, but when we Zoom. Please join us to address turned the calendar to January it feels like just more of the same. any questions regarding plans for 2021. (see link below) And yet… hen plan to join us on Sunday, T February 7 at 11:00 am, via I have a hunch that God loves this phrase, “and yet…” Things are hard. Zoom for the congregation's And yet, God is here. God is in the dozens and dozens of faithful Annual Meeting where members servants who contribute to the gift of online worship each week. God is will vote on approving: the slate of in the ministries of calling and card-writing and caring that so many of candidates for Council, Audit you are engaging in right now. God is in the faithful generosity that Committee, Nominating Commit- allows Grace to support people who are struggling to have their tee, Endowment Committee and material needs met during this time. God is in the gentle smile of a Synod assembly. In addition, there loved one from across the room or across the internet transmission. will be a review of the 2020 Financial picture and approval of God is in you. the 2021 Operating Budget.

Whatever feelings or experiences you are carrying into this new year, Join via Zoom for both meetings: let us remember the “and yet…” of God’s goodness. I hold you close to Meeting ID: 708 352 0730 my heart in daily prayer. https://us02web.zoom.us/ j/7083520730 or Phone in at: Grace and peace, +13126266799 or 7083520730# Pastor Heidi

Thank you to the hundreds of volunteers that helped Grace share messages of hope, joy peace and love during Advent and Thank you! Christmas seasons. Countless choir members, instrumental- ists, and soloists brought worship alive with music. Others recorded prayers, readings or shared in the telling of “Good News of Great Joy” worship. Worship Arts and Altar Care teams prepared the sanctuary for worship recording and constructed a Nativity Walk labyrinth. Hundreds of cards and calls connected our community during this time we have been physically separated. Thank you for bringing the spirit of God’s love alive this season

Which letter is silent in the word "Scent," the S or the C? 2 13 Annual Lenten Retreat elivering Worship Saturday, February 20 D While many take internet, access for granted, 10:00 am – 11:00 am research shows over ten percent egin your Lenten Journey with of Americans do not have access. B Prayer and Meditation - Delivery of Sunday Worship DVDs renewing and refreshing your spirit to those unable to participate with us via Zoom. online is a Grace Outreach Ministry Lent is a wonderful time to try new that developed in 2020. ways of walking with your Lord. This online retreat will provide the tools you need to explore spiritual practices in If you have been unable to the safety and comfort of your own home. A wonderful “Lenten Retreat tool participate in Online Worship due kit” will be provided to each registrant. Join us via Zoom to connect with old to lack of internet service or know friends, meet new friends and refresh your spirit. Register at: www.gracelg.org/ of someone within our local events or contact Parish Nurse Ann Gornik at [email protected] for more community that would find Sunday information. Worship a blessing during these times, we would like to include you astor Leland explores the: in this program. (A portable DVD P Seven Last Words of Jesus players is also available for those from the Cross that need.)

Thursdays at 7:30 Please contact Karen Janik February 18—April 1 at [email protected] or Via Zoom Carol Denlinger Register at at [email protected] or call www.gracelg.org/events the church at 708-352-0730 and God’s Global Barnyard leave a message. Lenten Offering

An animal can make a world of difference for a family in need. Animals provide food to eat, fertilizer to grow crops and offspring to sell. This Lent the entire congregation will join Grace Place Kids families will reach out to help end the cycle of hunger and poverty. Watch for more information on how you can join in making a difference through the ELCA World Hunger program “God’s Global Barnyard.”

New Member Class Exploring Grace

February 22 • 7:00 pm via Zoom All are welcome to join our Register at www.gracelg.org/events community of faith as we grow Or contact Karen Janik at together. [email protected] 3 Don’t count the candles; Enjoy the glow

Janifer Broz 1 Carole Willer 9 Mary Lynn Van Dyken 15 Steven Bauer 25 Dale Starkes 1 Beverly Bergum 11 Harry Sheridan 16 Philip Lund 27 Amy Townsend 1 Leonard Horacek 11 Jeanne Farmer 17 Gary Victorine 27 Linda Danielson 3 Marian Lynch 11 Ellen Glista 19 Robert Cikanek 29 Ronald Straff 3 Karen Litwin 12 Kerry Orrock 19 Susan Feely 29 Diana Thal 7 Margo Rife 13 Susan Walton 24 Judy Giannelli 30

Mary Vann 1 Mary Anne Lisowski 4 Janis Smith 8 Karl Olson 18 Barbara Barry 2 Bob Jones 6 Helen Kwiatkowski 11 Susan Stahr 20 Gary Hill 3 John Westberg 7 Carol Heerwagen 14 Dorothy Mayer 23 Paul Wallin 3 Garth Bowen 8 Betty Vickers 15 Marvin Johnson 24 Joyce Lemke 28

Meryl Dahlgren 2 Aldo Mungai 6 Kenneth Hall 14 Debbie Granger 24 Vicki Jensen 4 Rhonda Kral 7 Barry Schultz 16 Karen Padgen 29 Linda Hadley 6 Dale Machacek 8 Lyn Rains 21 Lori Wenig 30 Birthday Smiles When I was ten my Mom told me to Apparently it wasn't the Apple What sort of birthday cake do ghosts take my brother to a movie so she watch she wanted. prefer? I Scream Cake. could set up for his surprise birthday A man gives his wife an expensive party. That's when I realized that he You know you’re getting old when… bottle of wine for her birthday. After was her favorite twin. Things you buy now won’t wear out. a few glasses the wife blurts out, “I

You know you’re getting old when… It was my wife's birthday the other love you”. The husband responds: day I took her to an orchard and we “Is that you or the wine talking?” You sit in a rocking chair and can’t get it going. stood there for 20 minutes.  ` Wife: “This is me, talking to the  wine”. https://www.ba-bamail.com/ Why is the letter W in English called double U? Shouldn't it be called double V? 4 “This is the day the Lord has made let us rejoice and be glad” (Psalm 118:24). I am writing this article with great gladness and thanksgiving. I have been your parish Be careful not to touch your eyes, nose, nurse thirteen years this month and God has blessed me abundantly with your kind- and mouth when removing and wash ness and graciousness. It is a privilege to serve our Lord and you as your parish nurse. hands immediately after removing. Thank you for the treasured blessing you, Grace Lutheran Church are in my life.

Blessings of joy, peace, hope and good health to you and your loved ones in 2021. Ann Gornik RN MSN Parish Nurse “I thank my God every time I remember you.” (Philippians 1:3)

It’s that time of year again: cold and flu season combined with the Covid pandemic. It is more important than ever to remember the 3C’s: Cover your cough; Clean your hands and Contain germs. The CDC recommends washing your hands often with soap and water for at least 30 seconds. Try singing the ABC’s, Happy Birthday or praying the Lord’s Prayer as a fun way to count while you wash! Avoid touching A few recommendations from the Raby your eyes, nose, mouth, or mask. It is not too late to obtain your flu shot at a local Institute at Northwestern University pharmacy or your doctor’s office.Here is a helpful chart comparing symptoms of Hospital to support your immune Coronavirus, flu and allergies: system during the pandemic are: >-Eat the Rainbow: Enjoy multi- colored vegetables daily >-Drink half your weight in ounces of water daily (200 lbs = 100 oz of water) >-8 or more hours of sound sleep per night >-Restorative exercise (yoga, walking, stretching) >-Avoid refined sugar, wheat/ gluten, dairy, coffee, alcohol 4-6 cups organic green tea daily Healthy fats* (nuts, avocados, CDC Guidelines on How to Wear mask, it doesn’t fit properly, and you your Mask Correctly might need to find a different mask extra virgin olive oil, pasture Wash your type or brand. raised eggs, fresh caught fish, hands or use Make sure you can breathe easily. chia and flax seeds, MCT Oil) hand sanitizer CDC Guidelines on How to Take Off Bone broths before putting Your Mask Carefully >-Hearty vegetable soups on your mask. Untie the strings Cook with immune boosting Put the mask behind your head foods and herbs (basil, oregano, over your nose and mouth and se- or stretch the ear ginger, garlic, turmeric, cure it under your chin. loops Fit the mask snugly against the sides cayenne, cinnamon, lemon, of your face, slipping the loops over Handle only by lime, onion, chili peppers, your ears or tying the strings behind the ear loops or ties beets, artichokes, mushroom, your head. Fold outside corners together cruciferous vegetables, berries) If you have to continually adjust your Place mask in the washing machine   Continued on page 11 Maybe oxygen is slowly killing you and it just takes 75-100 years to fully work 5 Prayer Concerns Prayers of Consolation for the friends and family who mourn the recent deaths of the following members of our faith community: Charlita Cole, John Johnson, Bill Olson, Lloyd Squires, and Daniel Svoboda. Homebound Members: Lois Angstadt, Marj Jung, Shirley Kozak, Grace Lawson, Betty Lundy, Grace Pierson, Virginia Riedel, Heidi Svoboda, Mary Beth Webster.

Strength & Healing Concerns Cards & Notes of friendship & support are appreciated by those experiencing concerns Current as of January 24, 2021 Annette Arkema Sarah Bloecks Jim Bornhoeft David Brown Joyce Ciner Sandy Dobias William Dobricky Debbie Granger Jim Granger John Guy Sandi Guy Ken Hall Dan Hermes Kay Johnson Marj Jung Bob Klonowski Mary Klonowski David Anthony Kopp Helen Kwiatkowski Riley Maggette Jacqueline Moline Al Mungai Lorrie Nicholaus Alice Oscarson Grace Puls Gladys Schroeder Martha Schultz Joan Sessions Ron Souders Heidi Svoboda Mary Vann Beth Wagley Bill Wenig Prayers for Missionaries: Philip Knutson family-missionaries in Southern Africa.  All afflicted with COVID-19 and those who remain physically separated from loved ones.  All those suffering from the effects of mental illness and addiction.  All caregivers, including Stephen Ministers at Grace and those for whom they care.  All students, teachers, families & administrators facing challenges in remote & in-person learning.  All healthcare workers and emergency responders. Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. Philippians 4:6 (NIV)

Faith Practices

Every time you clean something, you just make something 6 What is the relationship logue The Lutheran-Catholic dialogue appropriating insights of recent biblical Between the ELCA and has been in ongoing discussions since studies and drawing on modern investi- the Roman Catholic Church? 1965. The ELCA website offers links to gations of the history of theology and The worship staff receives a number of simi- documents that highlight key points dogma, the post-Vatican II ecumenical lar inquires on worship-related topics from from these sets of discussions. The Lu- dialogue has led to a notable conver- across the church. These responses should theran-Catholic Dialogue has been in gence concerning justification, with the not be considered the final word on the topic, ongoing discussions since 1965. Each result that this Joint Declaration is able but useful guides that are to be considered in to formulate a consensus on basic truths respect to local context with pastoral sensitiv- “round,” or set of discussions, covers a ity. The response herein may be reproduced specific topic important for the life and concerning the doctrine of justification. for congregational use as long as the web vitality of both communions. Recent In light of this consensus, the corre- address is cited on each copy. rounds have had focused discussions on sponding doctrinal condemnations of he ELCA is committed to Christian “The Church as Koinonia of Salvation,” the sixteenth century do not apply to T unity. As stated in its constitution, “The Hope for Eternal Worship Re- today’s partner. (JDDJ, 1:13) The most the ELCA seeks to “manifest the unity sources: Frequently Asked Questions recent document to come from these given to the people of God by living to- Life,” and Ministries of Teaching: bilateral conversations, The Hope of gether in the love of Christ and by join- Sources, Shapes and Essential Contents Eternal Life, offers this summary of our ing with other Christians in prayer and (for discerning the truth coming to us in ecumenical relationship: We are united action to express and preserve the unity God’s Word and communicating this as Christians by our baptism into Christ. which the Spirit gives” (ELCA Constitu- truth in normative teaching for today). We are taught by Scripture and tradition tion 4.02.f). What follows below is a In order to harvest the fruits of our dia- and share a common life in Christ. We summary of formal, bilateral conversa- logue, a Declaration on the Way (to uni- affirm as Lutherans and Catholics in the tions and documents that describe our ty) will highlight essential areas of agree- dialogue process a commitment to the relationship as two church bodies. Yet ment as a foundation for unity. In 1999, goal of full communion, even as we rec- on a more informal level, the relation- the ecumenical partnership between ognize that further agreements are nec- ship between Catholics and the ELCA members of the Lutheran World Federa- essary before full, sacramental com- can often be seen in our worship. We tion and the Roman Catholic Church led munion can be restored. Matters for share the essential pattern of worship to the Joint Declaration on the Doctrine such consideration include the nature of and much liturgical renewal in the last of Justification (JDDJ). This document the church, the ordering of ministry, decades has included partnership be- intended to show that both the Luther- patterns for the formulation of authori- tween Lutheran and Roman Catholics. an and Roman Catholic Church could tative teaching, and the anthropological Both ancient and contemporary hymno- articulate a common understanding of and ecclesial contexts for making judg- dy binds us as Christians. Consider that our justification by God’s grace through ments about human sexuality and other Evangelical Lutheran Worship includes faith in Christ, the issue that was at the concerns. (The Hope of Eternal Life: nine hymns by Roman Catholic sister heart of the Protestant Reformation. Lutherans and Catholics in Dialog XI, Delores Dufner, OSB and that Gather, a From the JDDJ: It does not cover all that Preface) Source: www.elca.org Frequently hymnal used in many Roman Catholic either church teaches about justifica- Asked Questions - Evangelical Lutheran Church in America (elca.org) assemblies, includes Luther’s “A Mighty tion; it does encompass a consensus on Fortress.” (Gather, third edition, #526) basic truths of the doctrine of justifica- We know that Lutheran/Catholic (and tion and shows that the remaining dif- Protestant/Catholic) divisions still cause ferences in its explication are no longer disagreements and suspicion around the the occasion for doctrinal condemna- world. Some Lutherans are known to tions (Preamble, 5) Opposing interpreta- shy away from worship practices that tions and applications of the biblical appear “too catholic;” Others yearn for message of justification were in the six- even stronger ties, lamenting how far teenth century a principal cause of the Lutherans have strayed from the mass. division of the Western church and led In the midst of long-held divisions, the as well to doctrinal condemnations. A formal dialogues encourage a commit- common understanding of justification ment to our already oneness in Christ is therefore fundamental and indispen- and the unity we yet seek. Bilateral Dia- sable to overcoming that division. By

The word "swims" upside-down is still "swims" 7 ed time," she says. "There is that pressure Banerjee that are rooted in neuroscience around if you're not a speed reader then that I think can help all of us. Think of it you're slow and slow is associated with like a little Russian nesting doll of advice not being smart." So, she says, take it easy for how to read: on yourself and give yourself enough time Pre-reading: Evaluate how much time you to pick up whatever book is interesting to have and how much you want to read. you and release yourself from the pres- Gist reading: Skim everything you've got sure of time. and get a sense for it. I remember my 2. Drop! Everything! And! Read! mom taught me this smart trick about Read whatever you want, but make time skimming, which is look out for numbers for it. Carve the time out of your day or and bolded words, any titles and sort of Not A Reader? Want to Become One? night to stop scrolling Instagram or move your eyes over the page. ere are a few in depth tips that can fretting about tomorrow and tell yourself Strategic reading: Strategic reading is all H help you get on the bookworm "I'm going to do this for 30 minutes," or about finding the meaning in what you train: whatever you've got time for on that just read. Basically, you read slower and If you'd like to read more, but you're find- particular day. focus on keeping that information in your ing it difficult — maybe you can't focus, Also, reading doesn't need to be high- brain. you feel slow or like you're not enjoying brow — you don't have to read some Review reading: This final step, Banerjee the books you've tried — don't give up! massive doorstopper! If the classics don't says, is a little more for the classroom Nearly 20% of adults struggle to read, do it for you, let 'em go. "People who do than it is for just sitting down and reading according to the National Center for read a lot can have a little bit of snobbish- your novel, but it's where you go over Educational Statistics. "People who have ness about it," says Juanita Giles, who is everything you read to make sure it's all trouble reading are not dumb. They are the co-founder of the Virginia Children's there in your brain. bright, smart people but they just read Book Festival. If you're wondering what to So these four steps: Pre-reading,, gist differently from others," says Manju read, just ... read whatever the heck reading, strategic reading and review Banerjee, the Vice President for Educa- sounds interesting to you without judging reading are the way to get those words tional Research and Innovation and a it. So that dishy celeb memoir you're from the page to stick in your head. But professor at Landmark College, a school in reading is fine! It's a book! And if you're Banerjee recommends that you can be Vermont for students with diagnosed reading it, that is the point in and of itself. flexible with these steps depending on learning disabilities. "Give yourself that time at night to read. what you've got on your plate. Here are some ways that you can get Just dedicate that time, and you'll find if Bonus Tip — Change word spacing started on your reading journey, you don't like it, the book that you pick Banerjee highly recommends that anyone 1. Remember: if you are a slow reader, or out at first, put it down and just try anoth- struggling to read check out the work of if you struggle to read, that doesn't er one," she says. Matthew H. Schneps. "He's done some mean you're not smart! 3. If you want to read more, make sure very fascinating studies which show that if Reading slowly, or struggling to read hap- you have books all over your life. you reduce the number of words in a pens to all kinds of folks Of course, "I have an upstairs book and a downstairs sentence and add more white space there's a huge range of what it means to book and a car book and a bathroom between words those who couldn't read struggle to read — please know that in book and a bathtub book," says Giles. "I before can actually read," Banerjee says. this piece we're being as broad as we can have books everywhere. You know, make Where to find books these days? when we speak to all you smarties who them available to you. And pretty soon Many of the physical places you'd normal- struggle to read. From folks with dyslexia, you'll pick one up and you'll start reading, ly borrow or buy books are closed right folks who just can't seem to pick up a and then there you go — you're a read- now, but there are still ways to access book and all of y'all who worry that social er." new reading material. Try checking out an media has effectively put your brain into Giles and Banerjee stressed that you don't audiobook or e-book from your local the microwave. And heads up, if you think necessarily need a physical book — if your library using one of these apps: Libby, you have an undiagnosed learning eyes are having trouble taking in books, OverDrive or Hoopla. Many local disability — talk to your doctor. try an audiobook! bookstores are allowing pick-up or We can put a lot of pressure on ourselves 4. Break it down with this 4-part reading delivery for book purchases, and you can to read quickly when we read, which strategy still order books from online retailers. Banerjee says is counterproductive. "I see We have some useful strategies from Source: https://www.npr.org/2019/11/26/ so many individuals benefit from extend- At a movie theater, which arm rest is yours? 8 Suggestions For Your Reading Enjoyment READ-WRITE-THINK

id you know the SWAN Library Services is a group of 97 libraries that share resources to give you more books & media . If you have a D library card from one of the member libraries you may borrow books from any and all of the SWAN members. Many of the libraries have e-books and movies you may download on an I-pad, Kindle or desktop computer at no charge. Think of all reading and viewing you have available to you from your favorite chair. The book selection shown are drawn from area libraries to tickle you interest. . . The Narrowboat Summer A Mercy Wilkerson compares this epic migration to By Anne Youngson by Toni Morrison the migrations of other peoples in history. ve expected Sally to come n the 1680s the slave trade She interviewed more than a thousand E festooned with suitcases I in the Americas is still in its people, and gained access to new data and and overnight bags packed infancy. Jacob Vaark is an official records, to write this definitive and with everything she owned, Anglo-Dutch trader and ad- vividly dramatic account of how these but she was wrong. She ar- venturer, with a small holding American journeys unfolded, altering our rived on foot, with a rucksack in the harsh North. Despite his cities, our country, and ourselves. and a carrier bag. "I just distaste for dealing in “flesh,” With stunning historical detail, Wilkerson walked away," she said, climbing on to the he takes a small slave girl in part payment tells this story through the lives of three boat. Eve knew what she meant. for a bad debt from a plantation owner in unique individuals: Ida Mae Gladney, who Meet Eve, who has left her thirty-year ca- Catholic Maryland. left sharecropping and prejudice in Missis- reer to become a Free Spirit; Sally, who has This is Florens, who can read and write and sippi for Chicago, where she achieved quiet waved goodbye to her indifferent husband might be useful on his farm. Rejected by blue-collar success. George Starling, who and two grown-up children; and Anastasia, her mother, Florens looks for love, first fled Florida for Harlem, where he endan- a defiantly independent narrowboat- from Lina, an older servant woman at her gered his job fighting for civil rights, saw his dweller, who is suddenly landlocked and new master's house, and later from the family fall, and finally found peace in God. vulnerable. handsome blacksmith, an African, never Robert Foster, who left Louisiana to pursue Before they quite know what they've done, enslaved, who comes riding into their lives. a medical career, the personal physician to Sally and Eve agree to drive Anastasia's A Mercy reveals what lies beneath the Ray Charles as part of a glitteringly success- narrowboat on a journey through the ca- surface of slavery. But at its heart, like Be- ful medical career. nals of England, as she awaits a life-saving loved, it is the ambivalent, disturbing story Wilkerson brilliantly captures their first operation. As they glide gently - and not so of a mother and a daughter - a mother who treacherous and exhausting cross-country gently - through the countryside, the eccen- casts off her daughter in order to save her, trips by car and train and their new lives in tricities and challenges of narrowboat life and a daughter who may never exorcise colonies that grew into ghettos, as well as draw them inexorably together, and a ten- that abandonment how they changed these cities with south- der and unforgettable story unfolds. At The Warmth of Other Suns: The Epic ern food, faith, and culture and improved summer's end, all three women must de- Story of America's Great Migration them with discipline, drive, and hard work. cide whether to return to the lives they left by Isabel Wilkerson Both a riveting microcosm and a major behind, or forge a new path forward. n this epic, beautifully writ- assessment, The Warmth of Other Suns is a Candid, hilarious, and uplifting, Anne I ten masterwork, Pulitzer bold, remarkable, and riveting work, a su- Youngson's The Narrowboat Summer is a Prize–winning author Isabel perb account of an “unrecognized immigra- celebration of the power of friendship and Wilkerson chronicles one of tion” within our own land. Through the new experiences to change one's life, at the great-untold stories of breadth of its narrative, the beauty of the any age. American history: the dec- writing, the depth of its research, and the ades-long migration of black fullness of the people and lives portrayed citizens who fled the South for northern herein, this book is destined to become a and western cities, in search of a better life. classic. If people evolve from monkeys, why are monkeys still around? 9 Healthy while the Environmental Protection Lifestyle Agency (EPA) regulates tap water. However, they use similar standards for Nutrition & ensuring safety.

healthy eating The EPA mandates that water utilities Virtual Learning provide annual quality reports to with Road Scholar Answered by: Katherine Zeratsky, customers. These customer confidence Access: R.D., L.D., certified in dietetics by https://www.roadscholar.org/virtuallearning reports provide information, such as ne-hour, live online lectures on the state of Minnesota and the source (river, lake, aquifer or other American Dietetic Association. She O Zoom. Road Scholar is committed source), contaminant levels and to making learning possible even when has been with Mayo Clinic since potential health effects. However, 1999. travel is not. That’s why we created this the EPA doesn't regulate private wells. collection of fascinating, live, online lec- I often bring home food from So if your tap water comes from a tures for adults! Via Zoom webinar, restaurants. Is it OK to leave food in the private well, you should test your water learn from Road Scholar’s expert instruc- takeout containers? every year for contaminants, more tors around the world as they discuss frequently if needed. t's probably safe to leave food in everything from Vikings in France to the I takeout containers. The key is to store The FDA has good manufacturing prac- evolution of Native American cuisine in food in a shallow container that can be tices specifically for bottled water. They Santa Fe. Our online lectures will give sealed when the food has cooled. These require bottled water producers to: you a taste of some of our most popular practices help limit bacteria. .> Process, bottle, hold and transport Road Scholar programs right from the

Here's another safety tip: Don't let bottled water under sanitary conditions comfort of your own home. > Protect water sources from bacteria, Current offerings: prepared food sit out — in your car or  on the counter — for more than two chemicals and other contaminants  20 Years Exploring Religion: Here’s hours. If you're someplace hot, where > Use quality control processes to What I Learned the temperature is more than 90 F (32 ensure the bacteriological and chemical safety of the water Keep the Colors Up: The Flags of C), reduce that time to one hour. Gettysburg > Sample and test both source water Bacteria can grow rapidly in food that's A Roadmap to Rethinking Retirement and the final product for contaminants unrefrigerated. And some bacteria make  a poison (toxin) that can make you ill, It's important to note that some people Why Can Statues Become the Site of Conflict?: A Global Perspective hence the term "food poisoning." are more vulnerable to getting sick from If you don't plan on eating takeout food contaminants in drinking water. You The Actor as Audience Member: The may be in this group if you are under- Experience of Theatre From the Other Side immediately, you have two choices. You can keep it hot — internal temperature going chemotherapy, living with HIV/ Before the Mayflower of 140 F (60 C) or higher — in an AIDS or have received a transplant. The Life and Art of Auguste Rodin Pregnant women, older adults and ovenproof dish in a preheated oven. Was Picasso a Genius? Or you can divide the food into smaller children also may be at greater risk. Talk with your doctor about whether Pompeii: City of the Ancient Roman portions, place it in shallow containers World and refrigerate. Plan to reheat the food you should take additional precautions, "Czar" Vladimir Putin to a temperature of 165 F (74 C) just such as boiling tap water or drinking before serving bottled water. Versailles with Your Grandchild: Daily https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/ https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/ Life at the Court of the Sun King nutrition-and-healthy-eating/expert-answers/food nutrition-and-healthy-eating/expert-answers/tap- vs-bottled-water/faq-20058017 I Now Pronounce You Lucy Stone: A -storage-safety/faq-20058387 Living History Performance

Is tap water as safe as bottled water? 2 preceding articles Dogs in Art: A Grandparent/Grandchild ap water and bottled water are Source: Reprinted from MayoClinic.com Experience © Mayo Foundation for Medical Education T generally comparable in terms of and Research. Source: as indicated follow- Your Life in a Shoebox: A Czech Jewish safety. So the choice of tap or bottled is ing each article. Reprinted from the Mayo- Family's Escape Story mostly a matter of personal preference. Clinic.com article © Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research. All rights Source: https://www.roadscholar.org/ In the U.S., the Food and Drug Admin- reserved. virtuallearning istration (FDA) oversees bottled water,

Why is there a 'D' in fridge, but not in refrigerator? 10 WELLNESS: Continued from page 5 Signs and symptoms of grief or hobbies. Keep a regular sleep sched- >-Vitamin C (Vitamin C 3000 mg Grief might cause you to feel numb or ule and try to maintain a healthy diet. 1-2 times per day. May cause empty, angry, or unable to feel joy or Limit your news diet. Spending too loose stools at high dosage. If sadness. You might also have physical much time reading or listening to news troublesome diarrhea occurs symptoms, such as trouble sleeping or about the COVID-19 pandemic can reduce dose by 1000 to 2000 eating, excess fatigue, muscle weakness, cause you to focus heavily on what mg) or shakiness. You might have nightmares you've lost, as well as increase anxiety. >-Vitamin D3 (5000 IU 1 per day or socially withdraw. Remember the journey. If you've lost with healthy fats*. Have Keep in mind, however, that grief can your job, you don't have to let the way it vitamin D levels checked to also have some positive effects. For ended define the whole experience. optimize levels) example, you might feel grateful for Consider some of your good memories >-Stress B Complex (1 per day brave and caring people in your com- and the big picture. with food) munity. You might have an increased As you adjust to a new reality and focus appreciation for your relationships and on the things you can control, your feel- have a desire to help others who are ings of grief are likely to lessen. experiencing similar losses.

It isn't easy adjusting to changes Coping with coronavirus grief Source: Reprinted from the MayoClinic.com brought on by the pandemic. As awful as it might feel, grief serves an © Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research. Source: Reprinted from the MayoClin- Consider how to deal with grief important purpose. Grief helps you ic.com article https://www.mayoclinic.org/ diseases-conditions/coronavirus/in-depth/coping caused by the loss of your normal recognize that you've experienced a loss -with-coronavirus-grief/art-20486392 routine. and that you're going to need to adapt. © Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research. All rights reserved. By Mayo Clinic Staff To deal with your grief: he coronavirus disease 2019 Pay attention to your feelings. Name T (COVID-19) pandemic has changed what you've lost due to the pandemic. It people's lives in many ways. In addition might help to write this down in a jour- to feeling grief over the loss of life nal. Allow yourself to feel sadness or cry. caused by COVID-19, you're likely griev- Think about your strengths and ing the loss of your normal routine. coping skills. How can they help you Why is the loss of your routine so move forward? Consider other tough upsetting? You might not realize it, but transitions you've been through, such as you don't only feel attachments to other a previous job change or divorce. What people. You also probably feel powerful did you do that helped you recover? attachments to your work and certain Stay connected. Don't let social distanc- places and things. The experience of ing prevent you from getting the losing these attachments, however, isn't support you need. Use phone calls, text as well-defined as some losses. And messages, video chats and social media unexpected endings can cause strong to stay in touch with family and friends emotions. This can make it hard to deal who are positive and supportive. Reach with what's happened and move out to those in similar situations. Pets forward. also can provide emotional support. You might also find that changes Create an adapted routine. This can help brought on by the pandemic are affect- preserve a sense of order and purpose, ing your sense of self. For instance, if despite how much things may have your identity is closely tied to your job, changed. In addition to work or online losing your job could trigger an identity learning, include activities that might crisis. help you cope, such as exercise, worship Who knew what time it was when the first clock was made? 11 A trucker came into a truck stop cafe and A radical feminist is getting on a bus LIFE IS placed his order. He said, "I want three when, just in front of her, a man gets up flat tires, a pair of headlights and a pair of from his seat. running boards." She thinks to herself, "Here's another BETTER The brand new waitress, not wanting to man trying to keep up the customs of a appear stupid, went to the kitchen and patriarchal society by offering a poor, WHEN YOU’RE said to the cook, "This guy out there just defenseless woman his seat," so she ordered three flat tires, a pair of head- pushes him back onto the seat. lights and a pair of running boards. What A few minutes later, the man tries to does he think this place is, an auto parts get up again. She is still insulted so she Laughing store?" refuses to let him up again.

"No," the cook said, "Three flat tires mean Finally, the man says, "Look, lady, you've There was a man who had worked all his three pancakes, a pair of headlights is two got to let me get up. I'm twelve blocks life and saved all his money. He was a real eggs sunny side up, and running boards past my stop already. miser when it came to his money. He loved are 2 slices of crisp bacon." money more than just about anything, and "Oh, OK!" said the blonde. She thought Two men were working at the just before he died, he said to his wife, about it for a moment and then spooned sawmill and one guy got too close to “Now listen, when I die, I want you up a bowl of beans and gave it to the the saw and cut his ear off. It fell in to take all my money and place it in the sawdust pit so he jumped down customer. the casket with me. Because I want into the pit and was hunting around The trucker asked, "What are the beans to take all my money to the after trying to find it. life.” for?" She replied, "I thought while you The second guy saw him and hol- were waiting for the flat tires, headlights His wife was a loving Christian wife and lered down, "What're you doing?" and running boards, you might as well gas promised to do so. Well, the day came, The first man said that he had cut off up!" when he finally died. He was stretched out his ear and was looking for it. in the casket, the wife was sitting there in The second guy said, "I'll help you" A man scolded his son for being so unruly black next to her best friend. When they and jumped in the pit. He was and the child rebelled against his father. finished the ceremony, just before the searching around on his hands and He got some of his clothes, his teddy bear undertakers got ready to close the casket, knees and then hollered, "I found and his piggy bank and proudly an- the wife said, “Wait a minute!” it!" nounced, "I'm running away from home!" She had a shoebox with her, she came over The first guy took it and examined it The father calmly decided to look at the with the box and placed it in the casket. closely, then said, "Keep looking. matter logically. "What if you get Then the undertakers locked the casket Mine had a pencil behind it. hungry?" he asked. and rolled it away. Her best friend said, "Then I'll come home and eat," bravely “I hope you weren’t crazy enough to Little Johnny had just been put to declared the child. put all that money in there with that bed for the umpteenth time and his "And what if you run out of money?" stingy old man!” She said, “Yes, I pro- mother's patience was wearing thin. inquired the father. mised. I’m a good Christian, I can’t lie. I "If I hear you call 'Mother' one more "I will come home and get some," readily promised him that I was going to put all time, you will be punished," she replied the child. his money in that casket with him.” warned him sternly. The man then made a final attempt, “You mean to tell me you put every For a while it was quiet, and then "What if your clothes get dirty?" cent of his money in the casket with she heart a small voice call from the "Then I'll come home and let mommy him?” Asked the friend. top of the stairs, "Mrs. Jones? Can I wash them," was the reply. “I sure did,” said the wife, “I got it all have a drink of water?" The man shook his head and exclaimed, together, put it into my bank account "This kid is not running away from home, and I wrote him a check.” https://www.bestfunnystories.com/ he's going off to college!"

Why isn't a Fireman called a Water-man? 12 Cooking for One or Two roasted pepper to make each wrap. Fold Place the squash on a cutting board and in the sides and the bottom of the tortil- cut in half. Scrape the seeds out of the la up over the filling, then roll to close. center of each half and discard the seeds. Cut each wrap in half crosswise and Fill the hollowed squash with the apple serve immediately. mixture. Nutritional analysis per serving Return the squash to the microwave and Serving size: 1 filled wrap cook until the apples are softened, about Calories 356-Total fat 8 g-Saturated fat 2 g 2 minutes. Trans fat Trace-Monounsaturated fat 4 g Transfer the squash to a serving dish. Cholesterol 41 mg-Sodium 415 mg Top each half with 1 teaspoon margarine Total carbohydrate 50 g-Dietary fiber5 g and serve immediately. Roasted red pepper & chicken wrap Added sugars 0 g-Protein21 g Nutritional analysis per serving Dietitian's tip: Serving size: 1/2 squash and 1/2 apple To roast peppers, place them on a Calories 204-Total fat 4 g-Protein2 g baking sheet lined with foil. Broil (grill), Saturated fat 0.5 g-Trans fat 0 g turning frequently with tongs until the Monounsaturated fat 2 g skin blackens all over, about 10 minutes. Cholesterol 0 mg-Sodium 46 mg Transfer peppers to a covered bowl and Total carbohydrate 40 g let them sit until the skin loosens, about Dietary fiber-6 g -Added sugars-6 g 10 minutes. Then peel. Number of servings Serves 2 High Fiber Ingredients Acorn squash with apples 4 ounces boneless, skinless chicken Dietitian's tip: breast, cut into strips 1/2 inch wide and Acorn squash is a good source of 2 inches long vitamins A and C, potassium, and fiber. 2 10-inch flour tortillas (spinach, garlic Here it's paired with apples and brown and herb, or pesto-flavored) sugar to make a hearty side dish. 2 tablespoons hummus Number of servings 1 cup shredded lettuce Serves 2 1/2 cup chopped tomatoes High Fiber 1 roasted red bell pepper, peeled and Low Sodium cut into slices Ingredients Warming Tomato Soup Directions 1 Granny Smith apple, peeled, cored and Dietitian's tip: Spray a small nonstick frying pan with sliced Tomatoes are a good source of the cooking spray. Add the chicken and 2 tablespoons brown sugar antioxidant lycopene. Lycopene is best saute over medium-high heat until the 1 small acorn squash, about 6 inches in absorbed when the tomatoes have chicken is lightly browned and opaque diameter been cooked. throughout. Set aside. 2 teaspoons trans fat-free margarine Number of servings Heat a dry, large frying pan (without a Directions Serves 2 nonstick surface) over medium heat. In a small bowl, mix together the apple Low Fat Add 1 tortilla to the hot pan and heat and brown sugar. Set aside. Ingredients until softened, about 20 seconds per Pierce the squash several times with a 1 can (10.5 ounces) condensed low- side. Repeat with the other tortilla. sharp knife to let the steam escape dur- sodium, low-fat tomato soup To serve, place a warmed tortilla on ing cooking. Microwave on high until 1 can (10.5 ounces) filled with fat-free each plate. Spread 1 tablespoon of the tender, about 5 minutes. Turn the milk hummus on each tortilla. Then add half squash after 3 minutes to ensure even 1 medium tomato, chopped of the chicken, lettuce, tomatoes and cooking.  1 tablespoon chopped fresh basil or How come Lipstick doesn't do what it says? 13 Continued on page 14 Soup Continued from page 11 that we are “hardwired to connect” cilantro with others. If this is true in less chal- 2 tablespoons croutons lenging times, it’s surely true when 1 tablespoon freshly grated Parmesan we’re facing a pandemic. cheese Perhaps you’ve heard the popular say- Directions ing, “Men walk, women talk,” about In a saucepan, add the soup and milk. how men and women handle stress Whisk together until smooth. Warm over differently. A University of California-Los medium heat 7 to 10 minutes, stirring Angeles study conducted by researchers frequently. Add in the chopped tomato Circles of Women’s Friendships Laura Klein and Shelley Taylor showed and herbs. Cook an additional 5 minutes, How are you staying connected to your that while previous research focused on stirring occasionally. friends during the COVID-19 pandemic “fight or flight” as a typical stress re- Ladle even amounts into individual bowls and why is it important to do so? sponse in humans, for women another and garnish each serving with 1 table- Sonia Solomonson, a life coach with response—“tend and befriend”—was spoon croutons and 1 1/2 teaspoons Par- Way2Grow Coaching, discusses friend- more prevalent. When stressed, women mesan. Serve immediately. ship and how it can be celebrated and seek social contact, the researchers nurtured in these trying times… found, especially with other women. Nutritional analysis per serving Serving size: About 1 1/2 cups The importance of women’s friendships “After a hard day’s work, for example, Calories 178-Total fat 2 g-Saturated fat 1 g comes as no surprise to Women of the women are more likely to affiliate, while Trans fat 0 g-Monounsaturated fat 0.5 g ELCA participants. The organization men may need time to decompress,” Cholesterol 5 mg-Sodium 220 mg and its predecessor bodies have a long Klein said. Total carbohydrate 31 g-Dietary fiber 3 g history of gathering women together for My women friends are a mainstay right Total sugars 22 g-Added sugars 0 g support. I have fond childhood memo- now. One of the gifts God has given me Protein9 g ries of going with my mother to what is my sister, Cheryl. Even before this year was then called Ladies’ Aid. That, her of pandemic and an increasing aware- 3 preceding recipes from ness of racial inequities in everything Source: Reprinted from the MayoClinic.com circle and their quilting bees meant so © Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and much to her. They provided space to from health care to policing, Cheryl and I Research. Source: Reprinted from the MayoClin- have had a habit of talking by phone ic.com article https://www.mayoclinic.org/ share joys and concerns. In the Iowa healthy-lifestyle/recipes/recipes-2-servings/rcs- farm country where I grew up, women’s nearly every day. Our conversations 20077215 © Mayo Foundation for Medical Edu- cation and Research. All rights reserved. work was carried out in isolation at a help to ground me as we discuss the time when women didn’t meet for lunch latest news and information, along with The Cheaper Solution or shopping trips. Women’s gatherings whatever inspiration we’ve found help- lady went to a psychiatrist com- in churches and homes were good ful: music, prayers, poetry or stories A plaining of a terrible phobia. “Every “girlfriend time.” about “the helpers.” (We can’t forget time I lay down on my bed I get this Today there are many additional outlets what the mother of the late children’s TV terrible fear that there is something for “girlfriend time,” yet quilting groups, host Fred Rogers told him when he heard underneath. “Wow” responded the circles and Women of the ELCA gather- scary news: “Look for the helpers.”) psychiatrist “I’ve never heard of such a ings continue to help women reach out Cheryl and I have come to this stage of phobia, but like all phobias it can be to others to “tend and befriend.” life as best friends. We’ve been through treated, but it will likely take around 20 COVID-TIME a lot together—her first husband’s un- sessions.” “OK” responded the lady The social distancing and increased isola- timely death, my divorce, the joys and “how much is each session?” “Oh it’s tion during the coronavirus pandemic challenges of children and grandchil- just $80 a session, but trust me it’s well helped many of us see the importance dren, the final hours of our parents, worth it.” When the lady didn’t come of relationships with friends and family. graduations, weddings and now, tend- back to the psychiatrist he gave the lady Whether you live alone or with family ing to the details for our brother as he a call. “How come I didn’t hear from members, whether you are an extrovert suffers with dementia. you? He asked.” “Well” responded the or an introvert, you need other people. I count on Cheryl’s love, support, nur- lady “when I came home and told my Author Brené Brown, a professor at the ture, wisdom and encouragement. husband about the cost he thought he University of Houston Graduate College When I tell her things, I am heard and would save some money, he just cut the of Social Work, says her research shows validated. She listens with compassion legs off the bed!” continues on Page 15 If money doesn't grow on trees, how come Banks have Branches? 14 and honesty. She often says, “We women many years. We women know how to alent, the birds arrive and breed in spring, want to be heard, fix that. We are all about connections. establishing their nests on roofs and oth- and we’re more often aware of that need Checking in with friends isn’t just im- er high, prominent places where their and will listen to one another.” As wom- portant during a pandemic. It’s always meticulous parenting is easily observed. en, most of us have experienced being important, particularly in light of ram- Spring is also associated with general ignored or dismissed, so being heard and pant loneliness in the U.S. and other fecundity, when human births were pos- validated is extremely important in our countries. sibly more numerous, roughly nine friendships. months after the summer solstice, a tra- GOING DEEP Sonia C. Solomonson is a life coach with ditional festival celebrating fertility. The Then there are my Ya-Ya friends. Formed Way2Grow Coaching. You can find her at belief was given fresh prominence in the in 2003, our group of four has been gath- way2growcoaching.com, where you can sign up 19th century by the somewhat macabre for her monthly e-zine. ering once a month for years. Now that This article is adapted from an article she wrote Hans Christian Andersen story The Storks, we are all retired, we’ve added more ac- appearing in the September 2020 issue of Gather but also served to disguise the facts of life tivities and spontaneity. At one point we magazine. To read more like it, subscribe at a time of great prudery (especially in decided to go deeper into our relation- to Gather. Victorian England). ships and focus on a book or topic at our Owls monthly gatherings (which during the Origins of Common Bird Myths he characterization of owls as “wise” pandemic have become weekly Zoom Doves T owes much to the bespectacled ap- meetings). These friendships provide oves enjoy possibly pearance of certain species and the popu- sanctuary, enrichment, nourishment, D the most positive larization of this idea in the Winnie-the- therapy, playtime and fun—to say noth- image of any bird—gentle, Pooh stories of A. A. Milne and other ing of indulging our shared love of choco- pure, divine, symbols of children’s books. The association, howev- late! We each have a wall hanging in our peace and love—in sharp er, is much older, as in ancient Greece the home that says, “YaYas: A group of three contrast to their close pigeon relatives of Little Owl (Athene noctua) was the bird of or more women whose hearts and souls the same family Columbiae. Indeed, Athene, the much loved goddess of wis- are joined together by laughter and tears ‘peace doves’ are now often white, do- dom. In general, however, the owl image shared through the glorious journey of mestic pigeons, which are both stronger is more ominous; fear and dread of the life.” That says it all. and have a keener homing instinct. birds is deep-rooted not only in Europe I have other dear friends who keep me Whiteness, associated with purity, is but in African, American and many Asian going. We’re staying in touch during these probably key to the bird’s perceived cultures. challenging times, trying to help one an- divinity. The white dove was first associ- Vultures other to remain hopeful. Each of my ated with Inanna, the Sumerian goddess ultures appear to be victims of their friends brings something different to my of love, war and fertility and subse- V appearance and carrion-eating hab- life. I need every one of them. When I am quently with the Assyrian goddess Ish- its. Their often bald heads, beady eyes, anxious, frightened, or can’t focus and tar, known as Astarte in Ancient Greece. ragged wings, hooked bills, and mighty settle, I know that all I have to do is call Dove figurines carved in white stone are claws have long been associated with one of my friends and I’ll come out on the among ancient artefacts found in Iraq, fear and death, which some suggest other side, feeling better. It doesn’t mat- dating back to around 3000 BC and made them the prototype of the tradi- ter whether I want to talk about COVID- thought possibly to be gifts to the god- tional witch figure. Curiously eagles, 19, the great divide in our country, sys- dess. According to Ovid, doves drew the which belong to the same family temic inequalities or about how much I chariot of Venus through the skies, link- (Accipitridae) as 16 Old World vultures, miss physically being with my sons and ing them to love and divinity. Earthly have a very different image. Vultures, grandchildren. I know my friends will lis- pigeons and doves were used as mes- too, were viewed more favorably as god- ten and be present when I share. sengers; in Christian symbolism, the like figures and spiritual messengers by LOSS OF CONNECTION dove became a heavenly messenger and the Mayans, while across the world in Being present is no small thing. We’ve embodiment of the Holy Spirit. Asia they played and still play an im- been feeling a deep loss of connection as Storks portant role in Zoroastrian and Buddhist we experience social distancing and its he ancient notion that storks brings sky burials, devouring the flesh of the stricter companion, shelter-in-place. But T babies is probably rooted in the dead. we already had been feeling a loss of con- birds’ migration and roosting habits. In Source: The book: Birds: Myth, lore & legend, by nection as part of the social fabric, for Europe where the belief was most prev- Rachel Warren Chadd and Marianne Taylor

If a Vegetarian eats vegetables, what does a Humanitarian eat? 15 News from some of our Grace Ministries & Partners Volunteer drivers needed to transport older adult clients an you spare an hour this winter? C Your time can make a world of difference to one of your neighbors! To Interfaith Community Partners clients, it can mean getting to a doc- tor’s appointment on time, picking up a prescription, getting to the grocery store, or having someone to talk with. To our volunteers, it’s rewarding to see the difference the gift of time can make. For more information or to sign up to volunteer, go to: www.interfaithcommunitypartners.org/volunteering Coffee and Conversation Telephone Support Group oin a phone support group that aims to be a positive way for older adults to start the week J at home. Call Aging Care Connections at 708-354-1323 and ask for a Caregiver Specialist.

Held on the 2nd & 4th Monday of every Month 9:30AM – 10:30AM via ZOOM ZOOM MEETING ID: 886 5913 9265/Password:awn123; DIAL In OPTION: Phone: 1-312-626-6799 Direct Link: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/88659139265

Contact MacKenzie Buss at 708-497-9898 or [email protected] for more information.

WHAT IS STEPHEN MINISTRY? Stephen Ministry is a way congregations provide high- quality care and outreach to hurting people in the congregation and community. Stephen Ministers are congregation members who have gone through 50 hours of training to provide one-to-one, Christ-centered care. Each Stephen Minister is matched with a hurting person—men are paired with men, women with women—and meets weekly with that person to listen, care, pray, and encourage. Stephen Ministers care for those dealing with grief, divorce, job loss, hospitalization, financial struggles, loneliness, convalescence, terminal illness, and many other life difficulties. To learn more about how this program might be of benefit to you or someone close to you, go to: www.gracelg.org/stephen-ministries DISTRIBUTION CHANGE Due to COVID - 19 Bring food directly to the Food Pantry Located in the basement of St. Francis Xavier Church rectory (124 N. Spring Avenue, LaGrange). You may leave donations in plastic sealed bags at the black door on east side of rectory. Please contact Mary Freeman, Food Pantry Coordinator, by email [email protected] or call (708) 352-0168 for more information. Non-perishable food items such as peanut butter, canned tuna, and fruit or vegetables are the most requested items. coupons cannot be used. Please do not offer outdated foods. The Veterans Ministry Team (VMT) he VMT is collecting: Toothbrushes & toothpaste, deodorant, combs, emery boards, hand T towels, washcloths, small note pads, and new white socks, paperback books, disposable razors, Shaving Cream or Gel -Decks of playing cards, Hand & Body Lotion, Lip Balm, Denture Cleaner, Denture Adhesive, Crossword/Word Find/Sudoku Books. For more information please contact Cari Hermann at [email protected]

Why are goods sent by ship called CARgo and those sent by truck SHIPment? 16 of the 2020 Tanzania Fine Coffees Compe- ship. The cooperative has been able to tition. Taking home a certificate and tro- increase the volume of coffee produced phy from the competition held in late from 1,343 metric tons in the 2014/2015 November in Kilimanjaro, KDCU received season to 39,486 metric tons in the a high cupping score of 80.44% for its 2018/2019 season and is now exporting Robusta coffee. A cupping score of over its coffee to the UK, EU, Japan and utheran World Relief believes that 80 is considered “specialty” grade. Australia. The cooperative’s membership investments in agriculture-centered L Things were not always so fine for the has grown from 22,000 members in 2014 rural development will provide the great- KDCU cooperative. Prior to its partnership to 64,000 members in 2018. Before the est impact for the people we serve. with LWR, KDCU faced several challenges project, KDCU was operating at loss, but Farming is the single largest source of in marketing its coffee and in day-to-day now the cooperative is healthy financially income and jobs for rural families living in business operations. The cooperative was with a net annual profit of $1.7M. poverty around the world. And small- weak and operated in an unsustainable LWR’s interventions brewed success for holder farmers supply the majority of the manner; its operational costs were higher developing world’s food. With global than the income generated from coffee demand for food on the rise, there is sales, and the coffee’s cupping score was tremendous opportunity to sustainably very low, making it difficult to attract an accelerate the growth of rural economies international market. and transform millions of lives. From October 2014 to September 2018, We help rural communities develop LWR implemented a four-year project, productive, resilient and stable econo- “Pamoja kwa mafanikio: Working togeth- mies. Our enterprise-based approach er for prosperous livelihoods in Karagwe the cooperative, as well as for the individ- engages the private sector at multiple and Kyerwa.” This project aimed to bene- ual farmers impacted by the project. Mr. levels to create profitable partnerships fit more than 20,000 farmers involved in Msafiri Gabagambi, a farmer from Ndama that benefit families and promotes rural the KDCU cooperative through capacity village in the Karagwe District and mem- livelihoods. strengthening, supportive supervision and ber of the Ndama Primary Cooperative We consider the entire rural economic linking coffee farmers to viable markets. Society, which is part of KDCU, affirms, system of each community we serve. The project aimed to increase the farm- “Ever since I started selling my coffee to From farmers to enterprises to the gov- ers’ resilience to coffee price volatility and KDCU in 2018, I have been receiving mul- ernment, we identify assets and inequali- to the changing climate. tiple payments. This has never happened ties at every level, build the social capital LWR facilitated trainings with the cooper- before. For three consecutive years from necessary for inclusive and equitable ative managers and farmer groups to help 2018 to 2020, KDCU has increased the market practices. develop strategic plans with well-defined farm gate price of coffee cherry from We support small-scale enterprises as specific, measurable, attainable, realistic 1,000 TZS ($.43 USD) to 1,200 TZS ($.52 the agents of change in market systems and timed (SMART) milestones, team- USD) per kilogram. My income has in- that can promote fairer, more inclusive work at all levels and with other stake- creased significantly, and now I am able to terms for market access and operations holders, including forging strategic meet my basic needs, send my children to that expand benefits to other marginal- partnerships to access international/ school and build a new house. I am proud ized groups. regional knowledge, and linking farmers to be a member of KDCU.” LWR-supported coffee cooperative to structured markets. LWR also support- Source: https://lwr.org/ wins first place award ed the development of a coffee cupping Dec 17, 2020 laboratory, making KDCU the only union aragwe District Cooperative Union in the country that has access to such a K (KDCU), a coffee cooperative resource. supported by Lutheran World Relief, has Two years after the project closed, KDCU been announced as the first-place winner remains strong thanks to LWR’s partner-

How do you get off a non-stop Flight? 17 ‘Village of Western Springs’ & ‘First Congregational Church Green Team’

STYROFOAM RECYCLING Is that text message about your message. will be available in 2021 FedEx package really a scam? In this version of the scam the link takes By Alvaro Puig you to a fake Amazon website. There, Specific dates and times Consumer Education Specialist, FTC you're invited to take a customer satisfac- tion survey. And you might just win a free are currently unknown ou may be skeptical when someone Y you don’t know sends you a text prize. But to get it, you have to give them For monthly updates, message you didn’t expect and it tells you your credit card number to pay for ship- ping. Please visit the village website: to click on a link. Maybe that little voice in https://wsprings.com/310/Recycling your head starts talking to you. I know Hopefully that wise little voice in your mine does. It says, “Hmm, this could be a head is thinking: or > “I shouldn't have clicked that link!” scam. Maybe someone wants to steal my “Village of Western Springs” or personal information. Or get me to pay > “Why would a link to my package deliv- for something.” ery preferences take me to an unrelated “First Congo Church Green Team” I guess that's why scammers come up website?” on Facebook/Instagram with new stories all the time, like a pack- > “You said the prize was free, but now I age tracking scam we're hearing about. need to pay. What else am I agreeing to Thank you for your Here's how it works. pay for?” continued support Scammers send a text message with a > “I really shouldn’t have clicked on that fake shipment tracking code and a link to link!” update your delivery preferences. In this Tip: Some companies offer so-called “free case, the message says it’s from FedEx. trials” that come with hidden costs. Here’s But they might use the name of another what you should consider before you sign well-known shipping company, or the up for a free trial offer. LINK to more infor- good old U.S. Postal Service. mation: "Free" Trial Offers? | FTC Con- Cue that skeptical little voice in your head. sumer Information Here’s what it might be thinking: Scammers may be turning to text messag- > “Was I expecting a package delivery?” es as a new tactic. But there’s a lot you > “Did I send a package to someone?” can do right now to protect yourself. Read > “Did I ask for text notifications?” How to Recognize and Report Spam Text LINK to more information: Package deliv- Messages to learn what to do about spam ery scam — delivered to your inbox | FTC text messages and how to report them. Consumer Information LINK to more information: How to Recog- Tip: If you get an unexpected text mes- nize and Report Spam Text Messages | sage, don’t click on any links. If you think it FTC Consumer Information could be legit, contact the company using a website or phone number you know is real. Don’t use the information in the text

Why do we put cups in the dishwasher and the dishes in the Cupboard? 18 Most people are probably familiar with compare them to English to discern the wording of the KJV and NRSV. Most nuances and emphases. We learn how have probably understood it in the way to use the software to investigate the that it is worded in the NLT version. The range of meaning a word has and how it CEV, however, draws your attention to is used elsewhere in the text. Even the object of God’s love. Is it the “world” though we don’t read the Greek, we can as a planetary body, or does it really recognize and understand the distinctive mean the “people of the world”? The writing characteristics of each biblical It’s Greek to me Greek uses kosmos (“world”), which author. Deeper understandings encourages us to check how this Discussing tense, voice and mood is a By Mark G. Vitalis Hoffman the Glatfelter Professor of Biblical Studies important word is used elsewhere in reminder that even learning to under- at United Lutheran Seminary John’s Gospel. stand Greek requires work, and knowing eople can joke about not under- The NET indicates that “so loved” is not just enough to be dangerous is not P standing a foreign language by about how much God loved but in what good. claiming, “It’s Greek to me!” Pastors, way. Consulting the Greek, we learn that Of course, this doesn’t mean that only however, were required to learn New the word may mean “so much,” but the those who are competent with Greek or Testament Greek in seminary. Yet in the NET rendering more closely expresses Hebrew can faithfully read the Bible. busy context of ministry, few of them the usual intended meaning. (Would that all God’s people were have been able to retain Greek profi- You may also have noticed that the Greek scholars!) ciency. verse describes the way God loved (a Even without original language skills, Some may say that the solution is simply good translation of the Greek verb) the however, there are ways you can to insist that they do the hard work of world, not how much God loves us now. become a better reader of Scripture. As reading the Greek weekly. (I refer to Putting it all together, we see that the shown, comparing a variety of English Greek throughout, but the issue also author of John is reflecting on the way translations can alert you to matters applies to the Hebrew of the Old Testa- God demonstrated love for (the people that need to be considered. There are ment.) Others question its value and say of) the world by sending the Son. This also many resources to help English that the realistic response is to forego example demonstrates the richness of readers dive into the text. More making the language a seminary even this familiar phrase. Attending to important, one does not need to be a requirement. “Does a person who the English sends us to the Greek to language scholar to experience the preaches or teaches, or is serious about clarify what the author was actually gospel message. The word, after all, understanding the Bible, really need to trying to communicate. is a living word that speaks in every know Greek?” goes the argument. Realizing, however, that it is difficult to language. Most people are familiar with John 3:16. retain fluency in Greek, and with chang- Still, for those who aspire to understand But do you remember exactly how it ing curricular needs at United Lutheran the gospel more fully and express it starts? Seminary, I had to rethink our goals and more faithfully, it is worth studying methods when teaching the language. Greek and Hebrew. Interacting with the —“For God so loved the world” (King The goal now is to understand rather original words sparks creative and James Version KJV, New Revised Stand- than read Greek. insightful engagement that makes the ard Version NRSV). It is possible to learn enough Greek to word lively. —“For this is how God loved the analyze what is happening with the https://www.livinglutheran.org/2019/10/its-greek world” (New Living Translation NLT). English versions and account for their -to-me/ —“God loved the people of this world differences. Further, a working so much” (Contemporary English Ver- knowledge of Greek allows one to make sion CEV). critical use of secondary resources that —“For this is the way God loved the comment on the original languages. world” (New English Translation NET). The best method for accomplishing this You only need English to realize some- is to let Bible software do all the work of thing is going on here. These differences parsing and providing lexical aids. suggest that knowing some Greek Instead of paradigms and vocabulary, would give readers more confidence we focus on Greek verbal tenses and about the best translation. moods, syntax and word order and Why is it called 'Rush Hour' when traffic moves at its slowest then? 19 cream sodas and milkshakes), soda, and Museum After the protests, all coffee and hot chocolate.. of Woolworth’s Lunch Counters were desegregated. Many people shared memories of visiting one and some people even used to work there! On July 17, 1997, Woolworth’s closed their doors for good. Not that there were many doors to close. The company had been slowly selling off The F.W. Woolworth Co. had the pieces of the company and shutting first five-and-dime stores, which sold The Woolworth’s Lunch Counter was down individual stores for more discounted general merchandise at a fixture in our culture until its even- than a decade. To commemorate fixed prices, usually five or ten cents, tual demise in the ’90s. There is still the ex-giant, here are a few facts undercutting the prices of other lo- one location that serves up nostalgic about the company that used to be cal merchants. Woolworth, as the hamburgers and milkshakes in Bak- the biggest department store chain stores popularly became known, was ersfield, California. It is located in- in the world. one of the first American retailers to side an antique mall that was once Seafoam put merchandise out for the shop- an old Woolworth’s. salad was ping public to handle and select Many people remember the feeling popular- without the assistance of a sales of grabbing lunch at a Woolworth’s ized at clerk. and it has some very significant his- the Wool- Frank Winfield tory. Years ago, Woolworth’s Lunch worth’s Woolworth grew Counters were everywhere. T lunch up in a severely During the Civil Rights Movement counter It’s lime Jell-O, cream poor family. He Integrating lunch counters in the cheese, pears, maraschino cherries learned to gain a Southern United States through the and whipped cream. hard work ethic use of sit-in political protests in the In 1979, The Guinness Book of World and applied it to his future business 1960s was a major accomplishment Records declared that Woolworth’s endeavors, which eventually earned of the, Civil Rights Movement. These was the largest department store him his store, which itself turned involved African Americans and their chain the world. into a historical franchise that is still supporters sitting at the lunch coun- SOURCE: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki; spoken of to this day. ter in areas designated for "whites https://doyouremember.com/ Woolworth's, an early five and dime only", insisting that they be served chain of stores, opened their first food and beverages. The Wool- luncheonette in New Albany, Indiana worth's lunch counter in Greensbo- around 1923, and expanded rapidly ro, North Carolina was the site of from there. Members of the retail one of the first such sit-ins in 1960. staff who had taken lunch counter In recognition of its significance, part training would staff the counter dur- of the Greensboro lunch counter has ing lunch time. Typical foods served been installed at the Smithsonian were hot and cold sandwiches Institution's National Museum of (e.g.,ham and cheese, grilled cheese, American History, while the former “You are strong. You are fast. BLT, patty melt, egg salad), soups, Woolworth's building is now the site And you WILL catch that pie,ice cream (including sundaes, ice of International Civil Rights Center squirrel tomorrow”

If a bottle of poison reaches its expiration date, is it more poisonous or is it no longer poisonous? 20 ters all over, everywhere you look. The any longer. “Excuse me, sir. How do you man is quickly dragged out of his car, manage to always come up with the exact handcuffed and taken towards a cop car. change out of your pocket every time?” However, just before he is put in the car “Well,” says the guy, “several years ago I and taken away a cop walks up to him was cleaning my attic and found an old and says, while pointing at the cop that lamp. When I rubbed it a genie appeared pulled him over, “Sir, this officer tells us and offered me two wishes. My first wish that you had committed a robbery, had was that if I ever had to pay for anything, I stolen loot in the trunk of your car, and would just put my hand in my pocket and had a loaded gun in your glove compart- the right amount of money would always ment. However, we didn’t find any of be there.” these things in your car.” “That’s brilliant!” says the waitress. “Most The man replies, “Yeah, and I bet that liar people would wish for a million dollars or Speeding Motorist said I was speeding too!” something, but you’ll always be as rich as Late one night this guy is speeding down The Man With The Ostrich you want for as long as you live!” the empty road. A cop sees him go flying A man walks into a restaurant with a full- “That’s right. Whether it’s a gallon of milk past so chases him and pulls him over. grown ostrich behind him. or a Rolls Royce, the exact money is The cop goes up to the car and when The waitress asks for their orders. The guy always there,” says the guy. the man rolls down the window, he says, “A hamburger, fries, and a coke,” The waitress asks, “But, sir, what’s with asks, “Are you aware of how fast you and turns to the ostrich, “What’s yours?” the ostrich?” were going, sir?” “I’ll have the same,” says the ostrich. The guy sighs and answers, “My second The man replies, “Yes I am. I’m trying to A short time later the waitress returns wish was for a tall chick with long legs escape a robbery I got involved in.” with the order. “That will be $18.40 who agrees with everything I say.” The cop looks at him disbelievingly and please.” Big Sofa asks him, “Were you the one being The man reaches into his pocket and, The salesman at the furniture store told robbed, sir?” without looking, pulls out the exact me, “This sofa will seat 5 people without The man casually replies, “Oh no, I was change for payment. any problems.” the one who committed the robbery. I The next day, the guy and the ostrich I said, “Where in the world am I going to was escaping.” return to the same restaurant and the guy find 5 people without any problems?” The cop is shocked and surprised that says, “A hamburger, fries, and a coke.” Childminder the man has admitted this so freely. He The ostrich says, “I’ll have the same.” I just hired a beautiful woman to look says, “So you’re telling me you were Again the guy reaches into his pocket and after my 1 year old baby. speeding…AND committed a robbery?” pays with exact change. This becomes Now I have two issues: “Oh yes,” replies the man calmly. “I have routine until one night they enter the 1. How to tell this to my wife. all the loot in the back.” restaurant and the waitress asks, “The 2. Where to find a 1 year old baby. The cop is now starting to get angry and usual?” Fish Lovers says, “Sir, I’m afraid you have to come “No, this is Friday night, so I will have a My friend said, “My kid refuses to eat fish. with me” as he reaches into the window steak, baked potato, and salad”, says the What do you think is a good replace- to take the car keys out of the ignition. guy. ment?” The man shouts, “Don’t do that! I’m “Me too,” says the ostrich. I said, “Cats. Cats love fish.” afraid that you’ll find the gun in my glove The waitress brings the order and says, Bad Cashier compartment!” At this the cop pulls his “That will be $42.62.” I had the nastiest, rudest, slowest cashier hand out of the window and says, “Wait Once again the guy pulls the exact change today. here” as he returns to his car and calls out of his pocket and places it on the I guess it’s my own fault for using the self for backup. table. service checkout. Soon there are cars, cops and helicop- The waitress can’t hold back her curiosity Source:https://laffgaff.com/ How come Noses run and Feet smell? 21 due to rationing during World War II. Af- ter the war ended, General Mills and Dun- can Hines took over the market with their cake mixes. This is when the chocolate cake really began to take off in America. As far as when the day commemorating chocolate cake came on the scene, no one really knows. However, as time pass- es, it’s a day that’s becoming more and National Chocolate Cake Day National Hot Chocolate Day January 27 (Wednesday) more popular – not only in the United States but all over the world. And why January 31 (Sunday) any people believe that chocolate elebrated during what is argua- cake has been around since wouldn’t it? After all, chocolate cake is M delicious. C bly one of the coldest months ancient times but that isn’t really true. of the year, National Hot Chocolate While it is true that the ancient Egyp- Types of Chocolate Cake When choosing a chocolate cake to serve Day is a holiday in which people can tians were the first to bake cakes and warm themselves to their core by that chocolate was first invented over on this holiday, you have a variety of choices. Below are some of the more enjoying this sweet and warm bever- 3,000 years ago by the Aztecs, the pair age. This day is celebrated on Janu- didn’t join up until about the middle of popular chocolate cakes you can make on this day: ary 31 annually, and it’s the perfect the 18th century in America. This is day to sit in front of a roaring fire when Dr. James Baker and a chocolate German Chocolate Cake; Flour-less Fudge Cake; Black Forest Gateau; Devil’s Food and take a few moments for your- maker teamed up to make the first self. chocolate cake in 1765. Cake; Chocolate Decadence Cake Molten Chocolate Cake; Red Velvet Cake Hot chocolate isn’t a modern inven- Dr. James Baker had learned how to tion like so many people believe it to make chocolate by grinding the cocoa Celebrating National Chocolate Cake Day Just in case you have to ask, the best way be. No, it’s been around since at between two large millstones at his local least 500 BC when the Mayans con- mill. However, the process was labori- to celebrate this holiday is by having choc- olate cake. You can either enjoy a nice big sumed this drink. And historians ous and time-consuming. It wouldn’t be believe that might not even be the until 1828 when Conrad Van Houten slice with your dinner or you can have it for every meal on this day. earliest instance of hot chocolate learned how to mechanical extract the consumption and that it might have fat from cacao liquor that the process been ingested even before then. became quicker and chocolate became However, the chocolate that was less expensive. This made it more consumed by the Mayans is a bit available to the masses. different than what modern people In 1847, one of the first chocolate cake would probably enjoy. Mayan hot recipes was published by Eliza Leslie in chocolate was made with water, The Lady’s Receipt Book but American cacao beans, cornmeal, chili pep- households really didn’t begin to add pers, and a few other ingredients, chocolate into their cakes until about but sugar wasn’t one of the ingredi- the 1880s. They wouldn’t do so until the ents the drink had. 1920s. This is when a food company When the Spanish conquered the based in Pittsburgh named P. Duff and Mayan empire, the took back cocoa Sons created the first boxed cake mix. beans and the Mayan equipment During the 1930s, they would go on to that was used to make hot choco- create a devil food boxed cake mix but late. At this point, the drink was one unfortunately, they had to put it on hold that was still bitter, but even so,  Why do they call it a TV 'set' when there is only one? 22 its popularity began to spread nating facts about these sweet pas- throughout Spain and eventually tries—facts that we think everyone will throughout Europe. It was a drink find irresistible. that could only be enjoyed by the The first bread to feature honey and aristocracy, however, because nuts were made by the Ancient Egyp- cocoa beans weren’t being grown in tians. Europe at the time and they only Schnecken is still a specialty that’s grew in South America. served in Philadelphia. As hot chocolate spread across Sticky Buns Day Sticky Buns should always be made from Europe, it had already been spread February 21 (Sunday) a dough that contains yeast so that it will across the Caribbean. In Jamaica, ticky Bun Day is a holiday that’s rise. they made a variety of chocolate S celebrated on February 21st and In the United Kingdom, sticky rolls are drinks. During the late 17th century, celebrates a sweet, tasty pastry that made with raisins. These buns are Sir Hans Sloane—president of the many of have enjoyed at some point in known as Chelsea Buns. Royal College of Physicians, visited time. Also known as sweet rolls in Eng- Sticky buns have been enjoyed since the Jamaica and discovered these lish and schnecken in German, this is a Middle Ages. chocolate drinks. He couldn’t stand pastry that’s been enjoyed by people for Cinnamon buns are considered to be a the taste of most of them, but he hundreds of years. So why not bake up a different pastry than sticky buns. found one chocolate drink that was plate of warm, gooey sticky buns and Cinnamon buns tend to be baked in a palatable to him when it was mixed enjoy this holiday with friends and fami- pan, drizzled with a glaze, and don’t with milk. He would take that ly? After all, the cold month of February normally contain nuts. chocolate milk to England, and is perfect for having some warm rolls. Both cinnamon buns and sticky buns use would eventually form the basis We weren’t able to come with the histo- the same type of dough, however. for chocolate milk. ry of this holiday, but fortunately, we Schnecken is popular in not only Germa- Hot Chocolate Is Different From Hot Cocoa were able to come up with the history of ny and Austria, but other parts of North- Many people confuse hot chocolate sticky buns. These warm pastries have ern Europe as well. with hot cocoa, but these two drinks been made since the Middle Ages, Celebrating National Sticky Bun Day are distinctly different. Hot choco- where they were often made with hon- National Sticky Bun Day is best served late is a drink that’s made with ey and cinnamon. These sweet rolled with a pan of warm rolls. It doesn’t mat- bittersweet, semisweet, or dark made out of leavened dough, were then ter if you enjoy American sticky buns chocolate that’s been cut up into brought to the United States during the that have a thick glaze and are extreme- mall pieces and stirred into the milk 18th century by the Pennsylvania ly sweet, German schnecken that’s with sugar. Hot cocoa is a drink Dutch—immigrants from Germany. The made with brown sugar and pecans, or that’s made from cocoa powder Pennsylvania Dutch referred to these British Chelsea Buns made with raisins. that’s been stirred into either hot sticky rolls as Schnecken—which is Ger- The point is to enjoy these sweet and water or milk and sweetened with man for “snail.” It was given this name sticky buns with friends and family. sugar. Similar, yes, but not exactly because of the spiral shape of the pastry the same. that resembles a snail’s shell. Facts About Sticky Buns Although many people would look at sticky buns and think of something that they probably shouldn’t eat because it would drive up their blood sugar, we look at them as a piece of history. As such, we were able to find some fasci-

What are you vacating when you go on a vacation? 23 used cherries in their pies. Unfortunate- might just be the one that you want to ly, there are no recipes that we know of celebrate. for cherry pies. There were plenty of The History of the Meatball pies made using honey, goat cheese, As far as historians know, meatballs herbs, and other ingredients, but we were first created around the 2nd centu- couldn’t find any mention of cherry ry B.C in China. From there, it’s believed pies. that the meatball moved across the In our opinion, and this is our opinion Mideast and finally traveled trade routes National Cherry Pie Day only, cherry pies as we know them were to make it throughout Europe. While February 20 (Saturday) probably made with any sort of frequen- many people think that meatballs came ational Cherry Pie Day is a holiday cy in Europe around the 16th century. to the United States from Italy, that isn’t N that’s celebrated on February 20th Although tradition says that Queen Eliza- the case. Spaghetti and meatballs were every year. It’s a day on which people beth was the one who made the first actually an invention of Italian-Ameri- are encouraged to enjoy the second cherry pie—we feel that the pie was icans. Later on, these Italian-Americans most popular pie in the U.S., second to probably made a little bit before then. would then introduce meatballs to Italy. only the apple die. This is a pie that’s Regardless of who invented these pies, Today, just about every culture on the best served hot with a scoop of ice however, millions upon millions of peo- planet has their own form of meatballs. cream or whipped cream on top. After ple have enjoyed them—and that’s an Unfortunately, while the history of the all, cherry pie is probably one of the indisputable fact. meatball is fairly well charted, it would biggest comfort foods around, so no one Celebrating National Cherry Pie Day appear that the history of National should miss enjoying some on this This is the part of this article where we Meatball Day isn’t. It’s currently unclear holiday. tell people how they can celebrate this who invented this particular holiday. It The History Of Cherry Pie holiday. However, in this case, we feel was probably invented by someone who We couldn’t uncover the history of this everyone knows how they should cele- really loved meatballs. Which narrows it food holiday, so we decided to research brate this day. The best way to celebrate down to several billion people. the history of cherry pie instead. What it is to have a nice slice of cherry pie. It’s Celebrating National Meatball Day we discovered is that we can’t deter- as simple as that. The only real way to celebrate National mine an exact decade when the first Meatball Day is by cooking up your cherry pie was created—at least, we favorite balls of meat. Which is no easy can’t do it with any sort of accuracy. task since there are dozens of different What we can do, however, is to go ways to enjoy meatballs. Some of the through the history of pies and come up more common meatball recipes are with a theory as to when cherry pies Pork Meatball Banh Mi Sandwiches, might have been invented. Meatball Casserole, Meatball pizza, Rice What we know about cherries is that Noodle Salad with Pork Meatballs, Red they were first cultivated in Asia Mi- Thai Meatball Curry, Beef Stroganoff nor—somewhere between the Caspian with Meatballs, Mac n’ cheese with Meatballs, Meatball Subs and of course, and Black Seas. It’s known that the National Meatball Day Spaghetti and Meatballs Greeks and Romans grew and used March 9 (Tuesday) cherries extensively, and it’s believed or years, meatballs have taken a that birds brought cherries to Europe. back seat to spaghetti but that is no So for thousands of years, people had F Chocolate Fondue Day longer the case thanks to the introduc- February 5 (Friday) access to cherries, so let’s take a quick tion of National Meatball Day – a holiday look at the history of pies and try to hocolate Fondue Day is a non- which is celebrated annually on March figure out when the two might have 9th. This unofficial holiday is the perfect C official holiday which falls on come together to form the first cherry day to celebrate the little orbs of meat February 5th of every year. On this fun pie. that make so many dishes so special. So holiday, people are supposed to get It’s known that the early Romans and whether you like meatballs on your spa- together and enjoy the dessert version Greeks learned how to make pies from ghetti, love Swedish meatballs or simply of traditional fondue – except the ancient Egyptians, so it’s conceivable flip over meatball subs, then this holiday that people in those cultures could have instead of using cheese as a dip,  Did you know that if you have What, When and Where and then replace the "W's" with T's the questions are answered? 24 required is some friends and family, a bowl of melted chocolate and some > Sharks were on earth before trees.” things to dip into it. Just be careful not to >“All of the solid objects around [you] overindulge on this decadent holiday. are actually ‘vibrating.’”—actually all objects are vibrations] National Drink Wine Day is an > “Redheads typically need more anes- unofficial holiday which is cele- thesia than people with different hair chocolate is used. It’s a sweet holiday brated annually all over the U.S color.” [yep, about 20% more, as they’re that seems custom designed for those on February 18. The purpose of more sensitive to pain. people who just so happen to have a > “Cows have best friends and get lonely this day is to celebrate the joy sweet tooth. if they are separated.” and health benefits of wine. History of Chocolate Fondue Day > “There are [over a billion] insects for After all, wine is a beverage While no one is quite sure when this every person alive today.” which has played an important holiday was created, it had to have been > “The letter J wasn’t invented until role in human history for thousands of sometime either during the 1960s or 1630.”—before then it was a variant of I] years. Besides, drinking this beverage has > “The color orange was named after the after the 1960s. That’s because also been shown to risk all kinds of differ- fruit, not the other way around.” chocolate fondue wasn’t created until ent health ailments – everything from > “90% of the population on Earth lives that time. This form of fondue, which liver disease to heart disease, if it’s in the Northern Hemisphere.” was created in the United States, was >“Kale, collard greens, Chinese broccoli, consumed in moderation. So pop open a adapted from an earlier European cauliflower, cabbage, kohlrabi, brussels bottle of your favorite red, white or rose version. sprouts and broccoli are all the same and enjoy a beverage that is considered European fondue was created during the plant [species]; brassica oleracea. They to be an integral part of the human 1800s as a way to use up hardened are just different cultivars.” experience. cheese. The cheese would be melted > The United States in World War 2 and then a party would be formed and Can You Believe This?? created a bomb that used bats. The bats everyone would dip bread into the These “ seemingly “alternative facts” would be carrying small incendiary cheese. The word fondue comes from have been “fact checked” to be true. charges and would be released from the the French word “fondre” which means > “When you get a kidney transplant, bomb in mid air, causing them to fly and “to melt.” they usually just leave your original scatter to different buildings in the area. kidneys in your body and put the third Celebrating This Holiday The charges would then detonate and kidney in your pelvis set all the buildings on fire. It was tested Celebrating this holiday is really easy. All > “There are roughly 200 corpses on and proven to be very effective. you have to do is throw a dinner party, Mount Everest that are used as way melt some chocolate and place it at the points for climbers.” > If you melted down the Eiffel Tower, center of a table and give your guests > “If you made $5,000 a day since the pool of iron would be less than 3 some skewers to dip their goodies into Columbus first stepped in America, you inches deep (in a square area the same the chocolate. Some of the more still wouldn’t have one billion dollars dimensions as the tower base). common food items that can be dipped today.” [you’d hit a billion in 2040] > The brother of John Wilkes Booth include apple pieces, pears, bananas, > “The Mall of America doesn’t actually saved Abraham Lincoln's son from being have heating, even though it’s located in cake, cubes of ice cream and marsh- hit by a train without knowing who it Minnesota. During winter, the heat was he saved. mallows. If you’re feeling especially produced by lights in the stores and the > A day on Venus is longer than a year on festive, you can also set up a fondue shoppers is enough to keep it at a fountain for everyone to enjoy. comfortable temperature.” Earth. How to Celebrate > “The 10th President, John Tyler, has > Most toilets flush in E Flat. Chocolate Fondue day is the perfect day living grandchildren.” > If you have 23 people in a room, there is a 50% chance that 2 of them have the for chocoholics to have some fun. And > “Pyramids and wooly mammoths coexisted.”—though it was the tail end same birthday one that is easy to do as well. All that’s Source: https://gizmodo.com/&https:// of the mammoth population lifehacker.com/ What did Santa say to Mrs. Claus when he saw their Christmas tree? It looks okay, but you could Spruce it up a bit. 25 LIGHTHOUSES OF THE GREAT LAKES An Armchair Travel Experience Little Sable Point Light / Michigan In 1871, the Lighthouse Board noted that “a simple inspection of the chart of Lake Michi- gan” would demonstrate that a third-order, lake-coast light was needed, Little Sable Light- house, which protrudes farther west than the other shore outcroppings. Lighthouse in 1940 Complying with the Lighthouse Board’s with various outbuildings request for funds, Congress appropriated Photograph courtesy U.S. Coast Guard $35,000 for the lighthouse on June 10, 1872. Over forty acres of what was public land was set aside by President Ulysses S. Grant the following month, and a working party arrived at the site the following April. The crew first built a dock for landing material and provisions followed by temporary buildings for their accommodations and for protecting the construction material. By July, more than 100 piles had been driven into the sand and topped off by a timber grillage to serve as a foundation for the tower. A cofferdam was then built in the sand so that the ground water could be pumped out and cement could be poured over the grillage. With the foundation in place, work began on the brick tower, which slowly grew to a height

of roughly 100 feet.

Atop the tower, a decagonal lantern room was installed to house a third-order Fresnel lens, manufactured by Sautter & Co. of Paris, France. This lens was different than most in that its lower and center section were fixed, while its upper section, made up of ten bull’s-eye pan- els, revolved once in five minutes to produce a flash every thirty seconds. Brackets sup- porting the upper section of the lens were connected to a pedestal that revolved atop chariot wheels. Every eleven hours, the keepers had to wind up a ninety-pound weight that was sus-

pended between the tower’s inner and outer walls and powered the revolving mechanism.

A covered way connected the base of the tower to a twelve-room, two-and-a-half-story dwelling, built for the light’s two resident keepers. The tower and dwelling were both left their natural redbrick color. James Davenport, who was transferred from his position of assistant keeper at Waugoshance Lighthouse to be the first head keeper at Little Sable Point Lighthouse, activated the light atop the tower upon the opening of navigation in 1874. John Carley served as the station’s first assistant keeper.

The first of several shipwrecks recorded in the station’s logbook was entered by Keeper Davenport on August 6, 1875 when the schooner Black Hawk ran aground on the point. Keeper Davenport noted “crew all saved.” Records of shipwrecks near the station were numerous in the late 1880s, when western Michigan provided much of the lum- ber for Chicago and other growing ports on the Great Lakes.

Joseph Arthur Hunter served as head keeper at Little Sable Lighthouse from 1899 to 1922, longer than any other keeper. On December 9, 1904 while driving his team of horses along a road, Hunter encountered his first car. Keeper Hunter was a Wesleyan Methodist and took his religion seriously. In 1905, he heard a speech he thought would con- vince anyone to be a prohibitionist and the following year he voted for prohibition. Keeper Hunter would patrol the beach near the lighthouse, gathering anything that washed ashore. By 1922, he had salvaged enough shingles and lumber to build his retirement home. On May 22, 1926, Congress passed an act authorizing the Secretary of Com- merce to sell unused portions of the lighthouse reservations at Big Sable and Little Sable to the State of Michigan for public park purposes. The area near Little Sable Point Lighthouse, which includes numerous sand dunes, is now part of Silver Lake State Park. Source: www.lighthousefriends.com The devil whispered to me, “I’m coming for you.” I whispered back, “Bring pizza.” 26 Visitors: 600,000+ (in 2019) Even though the park Area: 6,075,029 acres revolves around perpetu- ally snowcapped Denali, it’s often the rest of the DENALI park that leaves a lasting NATIONAL PARK impression on visitors: the boreal forest and tundra, Denali Park, ALASKA the wild rivers and glaci- Midnight Alpenglow ers, and the creatures that wander this amazing Alaska landscape, in particular the formidable brown bears that call Denali home. Located about halfway between Anchorage and Fairbanks, Denali National Park and Preserve can be reached via the Parks Highway (Alaska Route 3), air services or the Denali Star Train. There’s plenty to do near the park entrance, including day hikes to Triple Lake (9.5 miles), the lofty Mount Healy Overlook (5.4-mile round-trip), and the relatively easy Taiga Trail to Horseshoe Lake (0.9 mile). Visitors can also pop into the Denali Sled Dog Kennels to watch a demonstration of how they help patrol the park in winter. The Aurora Borealis paved road (and private vehicle access) ends at Savage River, where there’s a Northern Lights campground and a 1.7-mile loop trail that crosses the river on a wooden footbridge. Denali Park Road meanders 92 miles through the heart of the park to scenic spots like the Toklat River crossing, Wonder Lake with its remarkable views of the Alaska Range and Denali’s north flank, the old gold mining town of Kantishna, and Eielson Visitor Center with its interactive exhibits and ranger-guided activities. But only the first 15 miles of the road are open to private vehicles. The only way to cruise the rest of the route is by foot, bicycle, or bus. Traveling Park Road is the best way to spot wildlife, in particular bears, wolves, moose, caribou, Dall sheep, and a variety of birds. While Denali is the highest peak in North America, it wouldn’t even rank in the top woman walking a trail in a 100 of highest mountains in the Himalaya range. brown, tree-less landscape Naturalist Charles Sheldon spent nine years lobbying for legislation to create the park—the first national park in Alaska. A variety of private guided tours on foot, by bus and by air are available with reserva- tions. Bus tours stop at prime wildlife spotting areas and scenic places for photo- graphs. Backcountry hikers, campers, or those who merely want to explore on their own can hop a non-narrated shuttle bus from the WAC to four different stops along the road. Private outfitters offer guided backpacking treks into wildness areas for overnight camping. Permits are needed. Whitewater rafting of the Nenana Gorge and Talkeetna River rapids that range up to Class IV and a heli-rafting experience along 33 miles of river are also available from a bear on a hillside looking down at private companies. Rivers, home to Arctic grayling and rainbow trout, are also great a nearby moose with two calves for angling, either on your own or with a private guiding services. Over the past 30 years, Denali’s visitors have increased almost 200 percent. Accom- modating them without eroding the park’s wilderness has been a struggle. Buses cut down on private cars, which aren’t allowed on most of the park road. Campgrounds are modest and unobtrusive. And the wilderness areas have strict overnight camping ceilings to prevent overcrowding and damage to the flora and fauna. Unless you plan ahead by using the park’s easy-to-use reservation system, you may “You Go First !” have to wait a day or two to get your preferred two rams crossing a river campsite or bus reservation. www.nps.gov Tough Work Wood Chippin'

When I was a kid I wanted to be older…this is not what I expected. 27

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Reconciling in Christ

The OPUS newsletter is dedicated to ENGAGE, ENRICH, EDUCATE, ENTERTAIN our community of readers. we have and will continue to follow a practice of avoiding the reporting of issues viewed as controversial within our greater geographic community. Diverse viewpoints are important and are best addressed through personal conversations and the variety of mass media outlets. This publication does not constitute professional medical advice. Although it is intended to be accurate, neither the publisher nor any other party assumes liability for loss or damage due to reliance on this material. If you have a medical question, consult your medical professional. Team OPUS