April 2019 Northern Illinois Edition The ONNECTION C News and Events for Mature Catholics - Since 1995

An Irish Blessing St. Patrick’s Day Word Search March is National Nutrition Month A DAY TO LISTEN Health & Wellness by Drusilla Banks The best way to honor the holiday and Dr. King is simply to listen Gabriola Lucinda Bright ~ Brother Paul McDonough By Mark Schmeltzer

P.O. Box 38 PRSRT BPM U.S. POSTAGE PAID Dundee, IL 60118 PERMIT NUMBER 40 CHANGE SERVICE REQUESTED DUNDEE, IL 60118 A Time for Transformation The Christophers ~ The Christophers Kindness counts Facts About Easter November is ~ Victor Parachin Elks Veterans Remembrance Month Page 2 CThe ONNECTION April 2019

Where Angels Walk National Shrine of Our Lady of Good Help Lenten Season Schedule Pilgrims are invited to observe Preventing tragedy the traditions of the Lenten season. The Stations of Cross w ill tak e p lace Spelling Bee Rebekah Manthei “I knew I was done for,” Rebekah recalled. “I twice weekly and was glad to have a job in her closed my eyes and waited for it to hit me.” Holy Week includes family’s hardwood flooring A few seconds passed and nothing happened. A a blessing of the Winners business in northern couple more seconds… Then, Rebekah heard the f o o d b a s k e t s Michigan, even though it board land, but it sounded very far away. leading up to Easter was physically demanding. Slowly, she opened her eyes. Everything seemed Sunday on April 21. Part of her job was to get normal. But where was the board? The Lenten season schedule: flooring orders together in “Baffled, I got off the forklift and went to find Stations of the Cross–Fridays during Lent, where the board had landed,” Rebekah said. She JOAN WESTER the warehouse, and she did April 5, 12, 19, 5:30 p.m., led by The Fathers of walked the entire length of the large warehouse, and Mercy ANDERSON this by finding the product and moving it with a finally, at the other end of the warehouse, behind more Stations of the Cross–Tuesdays during Lent, Young children may be unable to recognize forklift. Different woods were arranged in different stacks of flooring, lay the board. There was no way it April 9 and 16, 9:15 a.m., led by Sister Caritas or categorize their losses, locations so, depending on the products, it took a lot could possibly have landed there. No way except for Mass for Palm Sunday of the Passion of the let alone sort them one from another. of moving and rearranging to get an order together. one. Lord–April 14, 11 a.m. “One day, we received an order very late, that “I knew right then that God had sent my guardian Holy Week Blessing of the Food Baskets for Easter Meal–Sat., April 20, 9:30 a.m. needed to be ready first thing in the morning,” said angel to protect me,” Rebekah said. To this day, she still envisions her angel catching the board in mid-air Holy Saturday Easter Vigil Mass–April 20, 8 Rebekah. “I decided to stay late to get it ready, since it p.m. involved an hour or so of moving large stacks of and throwing it across the warehouse. Thank you, angels. Wherever we are, you are Holy Mass for Easter Sunday of the flooring by forklift to get to what I needed. One of Resurrection of the Lord–April 21, 11 a.m. there with us. these stacks of flooring was piled almost to the ceiling The National Shrine of Our Lady of Good of the warehouse.” Joan’s new book Help is located at 4047 Chapel Drive in Rebekah was unaware that someone had left a Where Angels Walk Champion, centrally located between Green loose hardwood board on top of the flooring she had is the 25th Anniversary Edition, Bay, Sturgeon Bay and Algoma. It is open 365 started to move. As she began to lift the top bundle available now at Loyola Press. days a year, from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. Visit from the stack, the loose board fell vertically, aimed She can be reached at ShrineOfOurLadyOfGoodHelp.com. right at her head. [email protected]. Fr. John J. Dussman Council #3731 held its annual spelling bee on Jan. 10. Pictured, from left to right, are the winners—1st Place: Hayes Sadler of OLPH, 2nd Place: Umika Arora of St. Catherine Laboure, and 3rd Place: Vincent Lim of St. Catherine Laboure. Congratulation to these winners, who will now compete in the regional contest to be held on March 2 at St. Catherine Laboure.

May all your troubles be tiny and all your worries small, and your Angels come and smooth your way whenever you may call."

Angel Quotes How kids explain angels

THEY ARE LIKE ANGELS, THEY ARE GOD’S CHILDREN. ~ LUKE 20:36 April 2019 CThe ONNECTION Page 3

The Christophers CThe ONNECTION Published By Churchill Publications, Ltd. The Connection is published by the first of each A time of month. It is circulated throughout Chicago, Joliet and Rockford Dioceses. It is an independent publication supported by advertising and subscriptions. Publication of advertising herein does not necessarily constitute transformation endorsement. Opinions expressed in columns are not necessarily those of the publisher. The publisher reserves By Fr. Ed Dougherty, M.M., the right to refuse and/or edit any materials for publication. All materials contained herein become the property of the The Christophers’ Board of Directors publisher and cannot be reproduced without written permission. The entire contents of The Connection is Lent is a time to walk with Christ, to open our copyrighted. The Connection is liable for errors in an ad hearts and allow ourselves to be transformed by His only to the cost of the ad. Deadline for all advertising is the 15th of the month love. The word “Lent” comes from the Old English preceding the following month’s publication. Advertising word for “spring” because it is a time of renewal. rates and subscriptions are available upon request from Pope Saint Gregory the Great highlighted that Lent is The Connection, P.O. Box 38, Dundee, IL 60118. You not only a time of penance, but also of joy, because we can reach us at 847- 4 2 8 - 0 2 0 5 ; email u s at strive most fervently to follow the path to eternal life. Give up resentment and become more forgiving. [email protected] or visit our website at This path of life stands in stark contrast to what GetTheConnection.online. Pope Gregory characterized as the way of death: the Give up hatred and return good for evil. Publisher: Dennis G. Nastali way of the world and pursuit of worldly things. This Editors: Joanne Duffer and Jerry Koncel is why one key element of Lent has always been Give up complaining and be more grateful. Front Cover Design and Layout: Julie Nastali renunciation. We give things up and fast to discipline ourselves away from the temptations of the world, so Give up pessimism and become more hopeful. Editorial Board: we can receive the gifts of the spirit. Fr. Tom Rzepiela, Rev. Scott Donahue and So, we should not look upon Lent as a joyless Give up worry and become more trusting. Rev. Terry Keehan time. Rather, we should view it in the way great Staff Writers: athletes approach a period of intense training or Give up anger and become more patient. Jerry Koncel, Rev. Scott Donahue, Joanne Duffer, competition. These are things they look forward to Drusilla Banks, Cynthia MacGregor, Paul Franson, because these activities lead to the rewards they Give up pettiness and become more noble. Victor Parachin, Fred Cicetti, Joan Wester Anderson, seek—greatness, honor and strength of character. Joseph Cuniffe, Tony Rossi, Fr. Ed Dougherty, M.M. Those qualities can be pursued for vain purposes, but Donald Blocher, Theodore Rickard, Betsa Marsh, Give up gloom and become more joyful. Andrea Gross, Irv Green, Mark Schmeltzer, they can also be sought for the glory of God. Katy Koontz, and poetry by Grace Cleys St. Paul analogizes perseverance in faith to an athletic endeavor when he says, “I have fought the Christopher News Note Cartoonists: Johnny Hawkins and Martin Bucella and good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the Thomas Toons faith” (2 Timothy 4:7). See CHRISTOPHERS on page 5 Account Representatives: Northern Illinois and Wisconsin: Cathy Janus, Bob Kazmer, Lee Chaires and Rosa Lynch Subscriptions: $22 for 12 issues, $36 for 24 issues.

Printed on Recycled Paper Table of Contents Page 4 MacGregor Musings What’s that supposed to mean? Page 4 Bunny Hop Poem by Grace Cleys Page 6 Legal Matters, Reynolds Page 8 Money Matters, Devermann Page 10 Book Bin Empowering women Page 12 Sudoku and Coloring Page 13 From garden to bouquet— growing your own cut flowers, Myers Page 14 Quick facts about Easter, Parachin Page 16 Somethin’ Good is Always Cookin’ Wilted Spinach/Pecan Salad with Maple Dressing Eazeeeee Chicken Page 17 On the Green, Koncel Hooray, the golf season has arrived! Page 18 Healthy Pets: New treatment option for dogs with lameness Page 19 Adopt a Pet Page 20 Visit Geneva’s Viking ship Page 21 Down & Across and Wordsearch Page 22 What’s on America’s bucket list Page 24 Petra: The Jewel of Jordan, Koontz Page 26 Criss-crossing the Hill of Crosses, Marsh Page 28 Saint of the Month St. Adalbert of Prague Page 28 Remember When

Health & Wellness Insert ~ Section B Entertainment, Church Chatter and On the Go

HE IS RISEN. Page 4 CThe ONNECTION April 2019

MacGregor’s Musings What’s that supposed to mean? I went fishing this morning, but after a Q: What do you call a priest who becomes a lawyer? I had a hard time at the bank today. I tried to take out Bunny Hop short time I ran out of worms. Then I saw a A: A father-in-law. a loan, and they pulled a real attitude with me. By Grace Cleys cottonmouth snake with a frog in his mouth. * * * Apparently, they won’t accept the voices in my head as Frogs are good bass bait. Knowing the snake I can’t understand why women are okay that J.C. Penney has an I glanced outside my window references. couldn’t bite me with the frog in his mouth, I * * * older women’s clothing line named “Sag Harbor.” And saw something dashing by grabbed him right behind the head, took the * * * It seemed to pass so quickly Like a lot of husbands throughout history, Webster frog, and put it in my bait bucket. See WHERE ANGELS WALK on page 8 would sit down and try to talk to his wife; but as soon as Caught the corner of my eye. Now the dilemma was how to release the he would start to say something, his wife said, “And snake without getting bitten. So, I grabbed Kelly learned that day never to It was a little rabbit what’s that supposed to mean?” my bottle of Jack Daniels and poured a little Thus, Webster’s Dictionary was born. question what God asks her to do So furry and so small whiskey in its mouth. His eyes rolled back, CYNTHIA * * * and he went limp. I released him into the With a little tufted tail I was in Las Vegas a short while ago and had a very MACGREGOR lake without incident and carried on fishing Round like a cotton ball. amusing experience. While I was getting gas, two young using the frog. women in a convertible pulled in. They pulled up next to us and asked us where A little later, I felt a nudge on my foot. It Then he stopped so suddenly the lighthouses were. “Lighthouses?” I asked. And seemed to look around was that snake, with two more frogs. “Yes lighthouses. We are new to Las Vegas and just can’t seem to find * * * No one else was near him them,” the driver replied. As he hopped without a sound. Curious, and knowing that Las Vegas is nowhere near the ocean, I asked, A woman went to the police station to “Why are you looking for lighthouses?” He suddenly stood upright report that her husband was missing. “Oh, there are so many good paying jobs for lighthouses here in the paper. “Can you give me a detailed description And turned his little head But most want you to appear in person,” the passenger answered while pointing of him?” asked the officer. As another little bunny to several ads. “He's short and bald, skinny and Came from the flower bed. I stopped pumping my gas and walked over to see the ad. wrinkled, and wears dentures,” answered the You can imagine their disappointment when I read the ads and explained that wife. “Come to think of it, most of him was The two ran off together it was for “light housekeeping.” missing before he was.” ‘Twas such a jot to see * * * These tiny little bunnies It was during the war. A soldier was found lashed to the train tracks and his remains were spread widely when he was run over. The police with the Hopping off so merrily. assistance of the FBI and Army intelligence rapidly investigated the incident. A press conference was called, and the police chief was asked if this was part of a foreign plot. “No,” said the chief. “We believe there was a local motive.”

Cynthia MacGregor is the author of over 100 published books. Besides writing, she also edits and does public speaking. Her website is CynthiaMacGregor.com.

KEEP IT SIMPLE! LET IT GO! April 2019 CThe ONNECTION Page 5 Spring— The perfect time for exterior upgrades

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Continued from page 3 CHRISTOPHERS Legal Matters REHABILITATIVE CARE: Arbitration agreements in the nursing home setting What does Medicare Part B cover?

By Jared Reynolds Whether due to illness, injury or both, rehabilitative care is often a necessary step in the process of recovery. Medical expenses weigh heavily on Nursing Home Abuse, Wrongful Death, and Personal Injury Attorney the minds of many seniors as they attempt to regain good health and a sense of life normalcy. Supplemental Medical Insurance (SMI)—known as Medicare Arbitration is a mechanism by which Part B—provided by the government to seniors and others who qualify can individuals and/or companies resolve disputes help with those expenses. behind closed doors, in a private setting, and away This optional benefit helps cover medically necessary expenses like “Do you know Mommy is going to from the public forum of a courtroom. doctors’ services, outpatient treatments, and other medical services not covered Although arbitration may have some benefits, under Medicare Part A. Part B also covers some preventive services including have another baby, Grandpa?” many Americans unknowingly sign arbitration exams, lab tests and screening shots to help prevent, find, or manage a medical agreements; and as a result, bind themselves, and problem. potentially their loved ones, to contracts that limit their ability to proceed with their Constitutional right to a jury trial. Arbitration involves a decision Jared Reynolds made by a panel of individuals, which is then binding, and frequently forbidden from being Choose pull out appealed or having any other judicial oversight. as opposed to allowing the public to know about the injustices. Further, it takes Often, arbitration is phrased as a cost-effective and efficient way to resolve away families' rights to pursue cases in front of a jury of their peers for the Monthly premiums and yearly deductibles disputes. Frequently, however, the individual (or consumer) opposed to the injuries that their loved ones suffered from. Additionally, under Illinois law, if Since 2007, a beneficiary’s Medicare Part B monthly premium is based on company is unsuccessful in such a forum. Alternatively, they win much less successful in the courts and at trial, the defendant nursing home would have to income. These income-related monthly adjustment amounts (IRMAA) affect money than what they would otherwise receive in court. These agreements can pay for the family’s attorney’s fees and costs. This right is not granted for roughly five percent of people with Medicare Part B. For example, in 2019, be found in our credit card applications, in loan applications, employment families proceeding with arbitration. citizens with a yearly income of $85,000 or less will pay a monthly premium of agreements, and even nursing home contracts. Admitting a loved one into a nursing home is an inherently emotional $135.50 for Medicare Part B. The deductible for the year is $185. In the nursing home setting, arbitration agreements may be included in the process. Accordingly, it is important that families do not sign contracts they do Therapy cap limits admissions paperwork meant to be signed when your loved one enters into the not understand. The emotional toll involved with admitting a loved one can While Medicare B helps pay for medically necessary outpatient physical facility. It is imperative that when receiving this paperwork, you carefully read affect someone’s ability to fully understand what is placed in front of them. If and occupational therapy and speech-language pathology services, there are each and every word of each and every page, and if you have any questions or you are faced with a contract you do not understand, please contact an attorney. limits on these services. Changes by CMS for 2019 allow therapy providers concerns, voice them with an employee of the nursing home. Do not sign Questions? Send in your questions about arbitration agreements, nursing advise clients in need of additional services on how to submit a Medicare anything until you are satisfied that you understand it in its entirety. Further, if home abuse in general, or wrongful death/personal injury cases, and I will review that will sometimes allow recipients to go above their cap. necessary, feel free to hold off on signing the paperwork until you are able to feature Questions & Answers in an upcoming issue. Also, always feel free to Seniors should become familiar with the requirements and restrictions of The chimney’s too tight for Santa Claus! show it to an attorney who may be able to explain it to you. call me for a free consultation. Email: [email protected]; call cell Medicare Part B as well as the new coverages for 2019. Seniors also should Arbitration in the nursing home setting frequently forces families to seek phone: 518-369-4099 or direct office line: 312-327-8251. Mail Levin & understand what health care providers are enrolled in Medicare such as recourse behind closed doors for negligence that their loved ones suffered from, Perconti, 325 N. LaSalle St., #450, Chicago, IL 60654. Lexington Health Network. Visit medicare.gov for up-to-date information. For information on At the time of the Christmas chimney rehabilitation services, call Lexington Health Network at 1-877-637-4803. crisis, Bobby was still short of his seventh Oh, Santa will just come in the door,” I assured him birthday, and his discovery that “our in my heartiest ho-ho-ho manner. chimney’s too tight for Santa Claus” had him sputtering even more than usual. It is for moments of spiritual challenge out to his sleigh and brought the train in through the door.” Missy oozed sweet like this that God made grandfathers and, I rationality. But she looked for Bobby’s reaction somewhat anxiously. suspect, it was His sense of devilish humor (if I could see Bobby relax as he pondered the possibility. “Yeah…,” he there could be such a thing) that made began. “I guess.” He looked again at the fireplace and frowned. “Then he had TED “Gramps” volunteer to babysit, while mother to make two trips.” RICKARD and grandmother went off to some mysterious “No problem,” I contributed. “He had the sleigh parked right outside.” I female rendezvous at the mall. vaguely indicated the patio and strained to visualize a sleigh and eight reindeer “Oh, Santa will just come in the door,” I in the space between the house and the charcoal grill. assured him in my heartiest ho-ho-ho manner. And I pointed to the glass “In the story he lands on the roof.” sliding door that opened onto an outdoor patio, where the charcoal grill sat “Oh, this one’s too steep. The sleigh would slide right off.” I managed to sullen and frozen in its plastic winter shroud. beat Missy to it this time. “So, he parked right there, right outside the door.” I “That’s where he’ll park his reindeer, anyway.” Older sister—by two couldn’t keep the triumph out of my voice. And I noticed Missy was looking at entire years—Missy chimed in. It was good to see her taking on the me with renewed respect as I came up with it. responsibility. “Why didn’t he just come in the door?” “It says he comes down the chimney. With a pack full of toys and stuff. “It’s locked.” Missy jumped on the response, then cocked her head as she But he’ll never make it down our chimney. I looked.” Bobby bent down and looked at me as though to say “match point.” twisted his neck to show us how he had gazed up the flue to investigate. “Of course,” I chortled. “Why didn’t I think of that?” “He’s an elf.” Missy jumped in before I had a chance. “Remember? It “Mommy said there was hot chocolate for us.” Missy had already learned says ‘min-chur sleigh and eight tiny reindeer.’” The “tiny” was stressed into how diversion trumps argument every time. “With marshmallows.” She “teeny” and emphasized with Missy’s thumb and forefinger held about half added a finishing flourish. an inch apart. “He’s a little, tiny guy.” “Great idea,” I squeaked. “If he’s so little-tiny, how did he get that big package down the “Then when Santa Claus left, did he go back up the chimney like it says in chimney?” Bobby was still “on message.” “Like the electric train I got last the book? Why didn’t he just go out the door?” year?” “Because he had to lock the patio door behind him, silly. From the inside.” His father and I had set up the electric train the year before. But we’d left Missy’s voice actually swaggered with the answer. “Otherwise, anybody its box out and Bobby had calculated its dimensions vs. the chimney flue and could come right in. Like a burger or something.” She didn’t bother looking at come up with the geometric quandary. Right now, shoulders squared and me this time. She just led the way to the kitchen. chin up, he waited for an answer. “He came down the chimney with the little stuff and then he went back Theodore Rickard is a writer living in Yarmouth Port, MA.

HAPPY EASTER! April 2019 CThe ONNECTION Page 7 Fall risk handout: Tips for patients and caregivers Risk increases with age

Many people have a friend or relative All of these tests will help who has fallen. The person may have slipped define the cause of your balance while walking or felt dizzy when standing up problem and are the foundation of from a chair resulting in a fall. Maybe you’ve devising a unique, individualized fallen yourself. program for you. Physical Therapy If you or an older person you know has Solutions utilizes a state-of-the-art fallen, you are not alone. More than one in balance machine and its balance three people age 65 years or older fall each therapy programs have a 98-percent year. The risk of falling and fall-related balance improvement success rate. problems rises with age. Rupangi Patel PT, co- Falls lead to fractures, trauma founder/CEO of Physical Therapy Each year, more than 1.6 million older Solutions Group, is a physical U.S. adults go to emergency departments for therapist with more than 31 years of fall-related injuries. Among older adults, experience gleaned over two falls are the number one cause of fractures, continents. She has been serving hospital admissions for trauma, loss of the Northwest suburban area since independence and injury related deaths. 1990 and she opened her own clinic Fractures caused by falls can lead to in 2005. Rupangi is skilled in extended hospital stays and disability. Most evaluating and treating various often, fall-related fractures are in the person’s orthopedic and neurological hip, pelvis, spine, arm, hand or ankle. conditions and has expertise in Hip fractures are one of the most serious types of specific tests to determine your ability to maintain vestibular rehabilitation. She has undergone fall injury. They are a leading cause of injury and loss your balance, as well as your risk of falling. extensive training in the treatment of patients with of independence, among older adults. Most healthy, Computerized equilibrium tests can evaluate the balance and mobility ailments, with a particular focus independent older adults who are hospitalized for a sensory and motor parts of your balance system. on dizziness. Rupangi and her team of eight broken hip are able to return home or live on their own Sensory tests assess inner ears, eyes and sense of therapists have helped thousands of patients get back after treatment and rehabilitation. Most of those who touch in your feet and joints that contribute to balance to enjoying their daily living. For more information cannot return to independent living after such injuries control. Motor tests will measure your ability to or to schedule a FREE FALL RISK ASSESSMENT had physical or mental disabilities before the fracture execute coordinated movements, both voluntary and consultation, call Physical Therapy Solutions at 847- resulting in a need for long-term care. involuntary, to maintain your balance. 240-2000. Tell your doctor if you fall If you fall, be sure to discuss the fall with your doctor, even if you aren’t hurt. Many underlying causes of falls can be treated or corrected. For example, falls can be a sign of a new medical problem that needs attention, such as diabetes or changes in blood pressure, particularly drops in blood pressure on standing up. They can also be a sign of problems with your medications or eyesight that can be corrected. After a fall, your doctor may suggest changes in your medication or your eyewear prescription. He or she may also suggest physical therapy, use of a walking aid, or other steps to help prevent future falls. Ways to prevent falls Exercise to improve your balance and strengthen your muscles helps to prevent falls. Not wearing bifocal or multifocal glasses when you walk, especially on stairs, will make you less likely to fall. You can also make your home safer by removing loose rugs, adding handrails to stairs and hallways, and making sure you have adequate lighting in dark areas. Fear of falling Many older adults are afraid of falling. This fear becomes more common as people age, even among those who haven’t fallen. It may lead older people to avoid activities such as walking, shopping or taking part in social activities. If you’re worried about falling, talk with your doctor or another health care provider. Your doctor may refer you to a physical therapist. Physical therapy can help improve your balance and walking and help build your walking confidence. Getting rid of your fear of falling can help you to stay active, maintain your physical health, and prevent future falls. For more information or to schedule a FREE FALL RISK ASSESSMENT consultation, call Physical Therapy Solutions at 847-240-2000. Physical Therapy Solutions is the only facility in the northwest suburbs of Chicago with a comprehensive balance and fall risk program along with a strengthening program. Assisted with a medical history from your doctor, we can perform

GETTHECONNECTION.ONLINE Page 8 CThe ONNECTION April 2019

Money Matters Earth Day highlights importance of socially responsible investing

As we get set to In fact, a separate Morgan Stanley study actually celebrate Earth Day shows that the concept is quite popular among (April 22), the practice millennials, a demographic that likely hasn’t yet of socially responsible reached their maximum earning potential. It’s easy to forget the i n v e s t i n g ( S R I ) SRI is an incredibly exciting terrain. This Earth divine goodness that exists continues to grow in Day, when the natural environment is already top-of- in every human heart... popularity. In fact, 84 mind, think through how the approach could factor percent of individual into your portfolio. investors expressed The returns on a portfolio consisting primarily of interested in utilizing environmental-, social- and governance- (“ESG”) Stephen Devermann their dollars to affect companies that either cap carbon emissions or have a aware investments may be lower or higher than a s o c i a l a n d strong minority presence on the board of directors. portfolio that is more diversified or where decisions environmental change, according to a 2018 poll from Incorporating are based solely on investment considerations. the Morgan Stanley Institute for Sustainable SRI does not require investors to reconstruct their Because ESG criteria exclude some investments, Investing. entire portfolio. Instead, it’s just about taking a few investors may not be able to take advantage of the But what exactly is socially responsible extra factors into consideration when making same opportunities or market trends as investors that investing, and how can one go about implementing investment decisions. do not use such criteria. the strategy into their portfolio? Here are a few things Start by turning inward and thinking about your to keep in mind. overarching passions and values. Ask yourself about Stephen Devermann is a first vice president and financial advisor with the Wealth Management The basics the type of change you are hoping to bring about. Division of Morgan Stanley in Oak Brook. The Socially responsible investing, SRI for short, Whether it’s spurring renewable energy efforts or information contained in this article is not a (also known as mission-aligned investing, impact propelling gender equality, analyze potential solicitation to purchase or sell investments; it is investing or values-based investing) is the practice of investment opportunities with those principles in general in nature and not intended to provide deploying capital in a manner that seeks to generate mind. This step could require some in-depth research individually tailored investment advice. The strategies both a positive social and financial return. into corporate social responsibility reports and giving and/or investments referenced may not be suitable for SRI investors study the financial and past initiatives, but you can always consult a financial all investors as the appropriateness of a particular performance of companies, just as any average advisor as well. investment or strategy will depend on an investor’s investor would. However, they also take the extra A common misconception individual circumstances and objectives. step of digging deeper into how the specific company There tends to be a prevailing misconception The views expressed herein are those of the author is impacting the natural environment, or its diversity when it comes to SRI. Many people believe it’s a and may not necessarily reflect the views of Morgan and inclusion track record. For example, a particular strategy only reserved for those higher-net-worth Stanley Wealth Management, or its affiliates. Morgan SRI investor may only be interested in investing in individuals. However, SRI is truly an option for all. Stanley Smith Barney, LLC, member SIPC.

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SRI ~ Socially Responsible Investing April 2019 CThe ONNECTION Page 9

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Book Bin Empowering women

Sing to It by Amy Hempel The Moment of Lift by Melinda Gates How to Fail: Everything I’ve Ever Learned from Ten years since her last collection of stories was With the supporting title, How Empowering Things Going Wrong by Elizabeth Day published, renowned and awarded short story writer Women Change the World, Melinda Gates shares her The silver lining tends to be hard to find in most Amy Hempel provides a connection from her 15 short life lessons and knowledge acquired throughout her situations deemed to fail. However, Elizabeth Day stories to her readers by revealing the reality all years of working and traveling about the possibilities begs to differ, by expressing the idea she has learned humans are living. Her stories range from a volunteer that open when others make the conscious effort to lift the most, and would probably have never learned at a dog shelter, to a woman discovering her each other up. As one of the most powerful women in otherwise, from her experiences with failure. Failure husband’s affair, to giving up a child to adoption after the world, Gates instills the necessity for female is a part of life, but it also helps us grow into the a teenage pregnancy. The affiliation one can feel after empowerment. As co-chair of the Bill and Melinda people we are constantly evolving into. Strength diving into each story provides moments of revelation Gates Foundation, Gates has learned that for a comes from understanding our mistakes and not as a human by understanding that, as unique as we all community to thrive, women need to be invested. being afraid to take chances unaware of the outcome. are individually, we all struggle and thrive with With small anecdotes on how each person can make a The way in which one reacts to any situation tells similar experiences that link us together. Finding a difference, Gates reveals her understanding of the more than the failure that has preceded it. Inspired by mirror between character and reader allows a deeper relationship between the prosperity of societies and Day’s lively podcast, How to Fail, helps readers to comprehension and feeling of acceptance to provide a the empowerment of women. Gates’ revered heroes understand how to be successful when using our more worthwhile reading experience, and Hempel who are on the front lines toward equality are failures as a learning experience. Day covers a range provides her readers just that. revealed, while also giving readers inspiration to get of topics from relationships with families or friends, involved. dating, work and more.

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IF YOU WERE BORN IN APRIL, YOU ARE CARING AND KIND. April 2019 CThe ONNECTION Page 11

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GETTHECONNECTION.ONLINE Page 12 CThe ONNECTION April 2019 The craze continues... Sudoku Coloring. Grab your colored pencils or markers. Enjoy!

Every digit from 1 to 9 must appear: Ÿ and in each of the nine boxes. Ÿ in each of the columns Ÿ in each of the rows Puzzle answers on page 24.

GETTHECONNECTION.ONLINE April 2019 CThe ONNECTION Page 13 From garden to bouquet— Growing your own cut flowers By Melinda Myers

Keep your flower vases filled all summer long blend such as the Sugar Plum Mix from Longfield with beautiful blossoms picked right from your own Gardens. Another option is to select colors that will garden and containers. Growing seeds, plants and harmonize with flowers that are already in your tender bulbs that can double as cut flowers makes it gardens such as phlox, sunflowers, asters and lilies. easy to create casual, fresh-cut bouquets for your Hybrid lilies are perennial garden favorites, as dinner table or to share with family and friends. well as fabulous cut flowers. Plant the bulbs of For early spring flowers, look to spring-blooming Asiatic lilies, Oriental lilies and Oriental-trumpet bulbs like tulips and daffodils, and cool weather lilies in spring, for color and fragrance that lasts all annuals like pansies and snapdragons. Clipping summer long. To ensure months of flowers, be sure to branches from trees and shrubs is another good way to plant a few bulbs of each type of lily. bring spring into your home. Your perennial garden Annuals play an essential role in any cut flower can provide bleeding heart, iris, hellebores, peonies garden. Extend your budget by starting zinnias, and much more. sunflowers, larkspur and cosmos from seed, and If the selection in your own spring garden is supplement with greenhouse-grown transplants of limited, strike up a trade with a friend. Pick some of snapdragons, celosia, amaranth and statice. theirs in the spring and share some of yours in the Foliage can elevate an ordinary homegrown summer. Then make a note to add more spring- bouquet from good to great, and your garden can blooming bulbs and perennials to your landscape. provide all sorts of interesting options. Incorporate Gladiolas and dahlias add pizazz to summer and the leaves of perennials such as hosta, baptisia, fall bouquets. These spring-planted bulbs combine artemesia and sage, as well as flower farmer favorites nicely with other summer flowers and they continue such as bells of Ireland, bupleurum and dusty miller. to bloom well after other flowers have faded in the Shrubs, such as ninebark, boxwood, viburnum and heat of late summer. Get some free help planning holly, are another source of attractive foliage and your additions with the “How to Design a Cutting some offer colorful berries as well. Garden” article found at longfield-gardens.com. Cutting and arranging flowers is a fun way to The flower-packed spikes of gladiolas are exercise your creativity and bring the beauty of your available in a rainbow of colors that will inspire your garden indoors. The more you do it, the easier it gets, creativity. These inexpensive bulbs are easy to plant Cactus and Decorative Sunset Mix. and you’ll soon be sharing your flowers with friends, and take up very little space. Pop them into Photo credit: Longfield Gardens neighbors, family and everyone who stops by. containers, flowerbeds or even your vegetable garden. Start planting in mid spring and continue With dahlias, you can choose from dozens of Gardening expert every two weeks until midsummer for months of different flower sizes, flower styles and colors. For Melinda Myers’ website colorful flower spikes. easy, eye-catching bouquets, plant a color-themed is melindamyers.com.

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YOU KNOW YOU WANT TO! CHECK OUT GETTHECONNECTION.ONLINE Page 14 CThe ONNECTION April 2019

before fasting. This took place on Tuesday, the day before Ash Wednesday. On Tuesday Christians came together to eat and celebrate in ways which were prohibited during Lent. Many of the foods eaten on Quick facts about Easter Tuesday were sweets, thus the term “Fat Tuesday.” Even today many churches have an annual pancake dinner on Shrove Tuesday. By Victor Parachin Lent officially begins 40 days before Easter. Traditionally it is a period of fasting, cutting back on the amount of food eaten and reducing consumption The 40 days leading up to Easter are the most important of meat. It is also a time when Christians reflect on ones of the church year. While many practices and services the life of Christ as well as their own spiritual lives. By Mark Schmeltzer are familiar to most people, some Easter customs, the Lent is a time to correct some personal faults and language of Lent (such as Maundy Thursday), and even the shortcomings by confessing those in prayer, asking dating of Easter are confusing to many people. Here is an God’s forgiveness and seeking God’s help to live a Easter and Lenten fact sheet. more authentic Christian life. Easter Lily. At Easter, Christian churches commonly fill Ash Wednesday is the first day of Lent. The their altars and surround their crosses with masses of Easter earliest observation dates back to the sixth century. In lilies to commemorate the Resurrection of Jesus and the hope Catholic, Orthodox, and Anglican churches a special of life everlasting. The lily is associated with Christ because service is held. At that service the priest or minister of two Old Testament passages. One is in the Song of Songs applies an ash cross on the forehead of worshippers. (2:): “I am a rose of Sharon, a lily of the valleys.” (New The ashes made from the previous year’s Palm International Version) Christians have interpreted this verse Sunday in which the palm leaves are burned and as a reference to Christ who is their “lily of the valley.” The crushed into ashes. other reference is found in Hosea through whom God Palm Sunday was a high point in Jesus’ life and promises a resurrection to Israel if the nation repents. The ministry. (See Matthew 21:8-9 for the biblical word reads: “I will heal their waywardness and love them account) Just as an American president is greeted by freely . . . he (Israel) will blossom like a lily.” (Hosea 14:4-5) crowds waving American flags, Jesus was greeted by Lilies are said to have been found growing in the garden of enormous crowds waving palms cut down from Gethsemane after Christ’s night of agony. Tradition indicates nearby palm trees. The New Testament welcoming that the beautiful white lilies sprang up where drops of Christ’s crowd was our equivalent of a ticker tape parade for a perspiration fell to the ground in his final hours of sorrow and returning hero. On Palm Sunday Jesus was treated as distress. a great dignitary. However, fame is fleeting. In less Shrove Tuesday (or Fat Tuesday) is simply the day than a week, Jesus was abandoned by everyone, before Lent begins No one is certain of the origin of the term including his own disciples. “shrove,” but some linguists believe it is derived from the old Maundy Thursday comes from the Latin word English word “shrive,” meaning to confess. During the early ‘mandatum’ meaning mandate or commandment. It middle ages, Christians were required to attend confession in If Easter says anything to us today, it says this: You can put truth in a grave, was on Thursday that Jesus gave us a new the week immediately before Lent. Since the Lenten season but it won’t stay there. You can nail it to a cross, wrap it in winding sheets commandment: “A new command I give you: Love was one of fasting, Christians came to do much feasting right and shut it up in a tomb, but it will rise! ~ Clarence W. Hall one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another. By this all will know you are my disciples, if you love one another.” Good Friday is a misnomer because it was really a “bad” Friday - the crucifixion day of Jesus. Originally the day was called “God’s Friday” but somehow became lengthened into Good Friday. Some, however, hold to the view that “Good Friday” refers to the good gift of salvation brought out by the death and resurrection of Jesus. Many churches still hold a three hour service on Friday representing the three hours Jesus hung on a cross. Such services revolve around Christ’s seven statements made from the cross. Holy Saturday evolved in the church after the fourth century. Prior to that time, only Easter was recognized as a holy or special day. However, during the fourth century all the days of the week prior to Easter were established as holy days. Some churches reserve Holy Saturday as a traditional time for baptisms. Easter Sunday, the day of Christ’s resurrection, is the most important day of the church year. The date varies from year to year because the Council of Nicaea (325) determined that Easter would be celebrated on the Sunday following the first full moon after the vernal equinox. (There are two times during the year when the length of day and night are equal: the vernal equinox and the autumnal equinox). The A Community word ‘Easter’ is probably derived from the Goddess For Ages of Spring, Eostre. Many congregations hold an 55 and Over annual Easter sunrise service. This comes from the fact that “Mary Magdalene and the other Mary” first learned of Christ’s resurrection “at dawn on the first day of the week.” (Matthew 28:1) Quinquagesima. This final entry is for those of you who really like obscure details. Quinquagesima is the first Sunday before Lent. It refers to the fifty days before Easter, which in the early church, marked the beginning of preparations for the entire Lenten season. In some churches the term is applied to the period of 50 days from Easter Sunday to Pentecost Sunday.

Easter Sunday, the day of Christ’s resurrection, is the most important day of the church year. April 2019 CThe ONNECTION Page 15

Mark Schmeltzer is a Chicago-based writer Ÿ who works in non-profit communications.

The great gift of Easter is hope– Christian hope which makes us have that confidence in God, in his ultimate triumph, and in his goodness and love, which nothing can shake. ~ Basil C. Hume before fasting. This took place on Tuesday, the day before Ash Wednesday. On Tuesday Christians came together to eat and celebrate in ways that were prohibited during Lent. Many of the foods eaten on Tuesday were sweets, thus the term “Fat Tuesday.” Even today, many churches have an annual pancake dinner on Shrove Tuesday. Lent officially begins 40 days before Easter. Traditionally, it is a period of fasting, cutting back on the amount of food eaten and reducing consumption of meat. It is also a time when Christians reflect on the life of Christ as well as their own spiritual lives. Lent is a time to correct some personal faults and shortcomings by confessing those in prayer, asking God’s forgiveness and seeking God’s help to live a more authentic Christian life. Ash Wednesday is the first day of Lent. The earliest observation dates back to the sixth century. In Catholic, Orthodox, and Anglican churches a special service is held. At that service the priest or minister applies an ash cross on the forehead of worshippers. The ashes are made from the previous year’s Palm Sunday, and the palm leaves are burned and crushed into ashes. Palm Sunday was a high point in Jesus’s life and ministry. (See Matthew 21:8-9 for the biblical account.) Just as an American president is greeted by crowds waving American flags, Jesus was greeted by enormous crowds waving palms cut down from nearby palm trees. The New Testament welcoming crowd was our equivalent of a ticker-tape parade for a returning hero. On Palm Sunday, Jesus was treated as a great dignitary. However, fame is fleeting. In less than a week, Jesus was abandoned by everyone, including his own disciples. Maundy Thursday comes from the Latin word ‘mandatum’ meaning mandate or commandment. It was on Thursday that Jesus gave us a new commandment: “A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another. By this all will know you are my disciples, if you love one another.” Good Friday is a misnomer because it was really a “bad” Friday–the crucifixion day of Jesus. Originally the day was called “God’s Friday” but somehow became lengthened into Good Friday. Some, however, hold to the view that “Good Friday” refers to the good gift of salvation brought out by the death and resurrection of Jesus. Many churches still hold a three-hour service on Friday representing the three hours Jesus hung on a cross. Such services revolve around Christ’s seven statements made from the cross. Holy Saturday evolved in the church after the fourth century. Prior to that time, only Easter was recognized as a holy or special day. However, during the fourth century all the days of the week prior to Easter were established as holy days. Some churches reserve Holy Saturday as a traditional time for baptisms. Easter Sunday, the day of Christ’s resurrection, is the most important day of the church year. The date varies from year to year because the Council of Nicaea (325) determined that Easter would be celebrated on the Sunday following the first full moon after the vernal equinox. (There are two times during the year when the length of day and night are equal: the vernal equinox and the autumnal equinox). The word ‘Easter’ is probably derived from the Goddess of Spring, Eostre. Many congregations hold an annual Easter sunrise service. This comes from the fact that “Mary Magdalene and the other Mary” first learned of Christ’s resurrection “at dawn on the first day of the week.” (Matthew 28:1) Quinquagesima. This final entry is for those of you who really like obscure details. Quinquagesima is the first Sunday before Lent. It refers to the 50 days before Easter, which in the early church, marked the beginning of preparations for the entire Lenten season. In some churches the term is applied to the period of 50 days from Easter Sunday to Pentecost Sunday.

See MERCY HOME on page 20 Victor M. Parachin, M. Div., is a bereavement educator and grief counselor. He is the author of numerous books about grief, including The Lord Is My Shepherd: A Psalm For The Grieving and Healing Grief.

GETTHECONNECTION.ONLINE Page 16 CThe ONNECTION April 2019 Somethin’ Good is Always Cookin’ Health & Wellness Recipes Eazeeeee Wilted Spinach/Pecan Salad Chicken with Maple Dressing

Pure maple syrup is a terrific cooking ingredient. In this dressing, it adds body, and a little sweetness, as well as rich flavor.

2 tablespoons chopped pecans or other nut 1 10-ounce package fresh pre-washed baby spinach 1 cucumber, cut into ¼-inch slices To learn more about Plant a Row for the 2 teaspoons extra-virgin olive oil Hungry, or to find a local food pantry near you, please 1 shallot, finely chopped contact Amber Noll, Extension Educator, located in ¼ cup cider vinegar Head of garlic the University of Illinois LaSalle County Extension 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup Office, 815-433-0707. salt and freshly ground pepper, to taste Incredible chicken that can be eaten ¼ cup shredded smoked cheese, such as Gouda or Cheddar hot or at room temperature.

Toast pecans in a small dry skillet over low heat, stirring often, until fragrant, 2 to 3 minutes. Transfer to a 1 chicken, quartered small bowl and let cool. garlic salt Toss spinach and cucumber in a large salad bowl. ⅓ cup brown sugar Heat oil in a small skillet over medium-low heat. Add shallot and cook, stirring, until softened, about 4 minutes. Add vinegar and maple syrup and bring to a boil. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper. Arrange chicken, skin side up, in lightly oiled Immediately pour the dressing over the spinach and cucumber. Toss well and sprinkle with cheese and bake pan. toasted pecans. Yield: 4 servings. Season heavily with garlic salt. Sprinkle generously with brown sugar. I add a bit Nutrition Facts per serving: 163 calories; 12 g fat (2 g sat); 183mg sodium, 12g carbohydrates; 2g dietary more than listed. fiber; 4g protein; 531mg potassium Bake at 375° in oven for one hour. Cover with Nutrition Bonus: Vitamin A (135% daily value), Folate (37% dv), Vitamin C (37% dv) foil, if chicken appears too dry after 35–40 minutes.

Adapted from: EatingWell Magazine, January/February 1999 Lee Youngstrom of Barrington, IL.

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TABLE MANNERS: DON’T REACH. SAY, PLEASE PASS THE... April 2019 CThe ONNECTION Page 17

On the Green Hooray, the golf season has arrived!

It took its time, but it has finally arrived. It’s As we all know, golf is a difficult game to master. time to put away the snow We can’t conquer the challenges of the game without devoting time and effort. blowers, snow shovels and We need to develop a plan to improve. ice melts. Get the clubs out of the basement. The golf season has arrived, and it As for new equipment, the major golf club In terms of the game itself, we can’t get better couldn’t have come at a manufacturers have come out with a plethora of new without practice. But what should we practice? How better time for those of us drivers, fairway woods, hybrids, irons, wedges and should we go about it? Is there a need for lessons? If who call Chicago home putters to improve your game. Technology in the so, who is the best teacher? Practice without a JERRY KONCEL during the wintertime. form of new equipment can work wonders for one’s purpose is simply hitting golf balls. On the other F o r t h o s e o f u s game. But never forget, the key to getting the best hand, practicing the wrong things because of a lack of confined to our homes during the polar vortex of value in equipment is be custom fit. As I’ve said knowledge is a waste of time and effort. What’s our January, the snow storms of February, the golf season before, custom fitting is the most important part of plan of attack to improve our golf swings? is a welcome relief. Although some of us have been buying any new golf club, whether it be a driver, As for better focus, this refers to the mental part of able to travel to warmer climates to play golf and putter, wedge or a brand-new set of irons. the game. A typical round of golf (18 holes) usually others have streamed to golf domes across the The challenges facing all golfers, both young and takes between four to 4.5 hours to play, but we only Chicago area to hit golf balls, there’s nothing like old, amateur of professional, are life-long. We want spend about five minutes actually swinging the club playing nine or 18 on a golf course to entice us to to play better golf. We want to improve our golf and hitting the golf ball. If we could improve our forget all about this past winter. In addition, the games. We want to have better focus. We want to be focus during this time, how much better could we be upcoming golf season brings with it new rules, new more physically fit. And we want all these goals to be as golfers? equipment, and plenty of new challenges. accomplished at the same time and with very little There are always more questions than answers At the urging of golfers both amateur and work or effort. when it comes to the game of golf. But never forget professional, the two ruling bodies of golf have As we all know, we can’t conquer the challenges our goal is to not only play more golf this year, but promulgated several major rules changes designed to of the game without devoting time and effort. We also play better golf. See you on the course! make the rules easier to understand and simpler to need to develop a plan to improve. It requires physical execute. The new rules are significant, but I have fitness as the cornerstone—but who has either the Jerry Koncel is a freelance writer, avid golfer, neither the time nor the space to detail them. That time or effort to go the gym on a daily basis? What’s and admirer of Chicagoland golf courses. Send him said, I urge all golfers to learn the new rules because the best type of exercise plan to follow? Should an email with your comments and questions, as well they have already caused quite a stir on the pro tour. weight training be part of this plan? as column topics. To: [email protected].

Bensenville

ON THE EIGHTH DAY, GOD SAID, “GETTHECONNECTION.ONLINE.” Page 18 CThe ONNECTION April 2019

Healthy Pets Platelet-rich plasma: New treatment option for dogs with lameness

“Do you know Mommy is going to By Hanna Netisingha have another baby, Grandpa?” Don't overlook osteoarthritis Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) is derived from the patient’s own blood. Often, dog owners miss cues that indicate their pets may have arthritis. TED “It's easy to think that pets naturally slow down as they get older,” said Dr. Harper. And while that may be true, she points out that the underlying problem may be osteoarthritis. “More often RICKARD A treatment approach that has been in practice in human medicine for decades is than not, our pets slow down due to painful arthritic joints,” she said. now offered for dogs at the University of Illinois Veterinary Teaching Hospital in Younger pets also suffer from osteoarthritis. For this reason, pet owners should be vigilant Urbana. Dr. Tisha Harper, a veterinary surgeon who specializes in orthopedics and PRP injections can decrease pain associated with arthritis by reducing about noticing changes in their pet's behavior and how the pet moves around. Luckily, whether physical rehabilitation therapy, says platelet-rich plasma joins a host of treatment inflammation in the joints. They may also help tendon or ligament injuries the dog is young or old, treatments are available to improve the quality of life in pets with joint or options—ranging from surgery to rehab to pain medications—for conditions such as heal. Patients with chronic, slow, or non-healing wounds may also benefit lameness issues. In addition to PRP, surgical treatment, weight loss, physical rehabilitation osteoarthritis in dogs. from PRP. therapy, laser therapy and simple pain relief medications can be effective options depending on “Every care plan is tailored individually to the patient,” she said. “Just as with What is the PRP process? Theodore Rickard is a writer the individual patient. human patients, what might work well for one pet may not necessarily be the best Platelet-rich plasma is prepared by drawing blood from the patient. The living in Yarmouth Port, MA. “Whatever approach is selected, pet owners need to be consistent and diligent about carrying thing for another pet. We explore many options when choosing the best treatment amount of blood is dependent on how big the dog is and how severe the injury out the recommended protocol for it to benefit their pet,” said Dr. Harper. The rehabilitation for each individual case.” is. Once the blood is drawn, it is either filtered to capture the platelets or it is process depends on consistency in the treatments. What is platelet-rich plasma? centrifuged to separate the plasma from the erythrocytes. Both of these If you have any concerns about the orthopedic health of your pet, see your local veterinarian Plasma is the liquid within which the other components of blood, such as red processes will provide the veterinarian with plasma that contains all the to discuss treatment options. blood cells and platelets, are suspended. It is mostly comprised of water. Platelets necessary elements. are small fragments of cells that play a role in the blood clotting process and promote This treatment usually takes 30 to 40 minutes to complete. It is something healing. that can be done at your veterinarian’s office in one day. For many patients, Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) is derived from the patient’s own blood. platelet-rich plasma is a one-time treatment; some patients, however, may need Veterinarians process the plasma so it has a higher-than-usual concentration of additional treatments. After a patient is treated with PRP, it may be necessary platelets. “The plasma contains growth factors and proteins that may accelerate the to restrict movement, but only for a couple of days. Afterward, there are no healing of tendons and ligaments and may promote regeneration of cartilage or restrictions on movement or activity. bone,” said Dr. Harper.

NATIONAL PET DAY IS APRIL 11, 2019. April 2019 CThe ONNECTION Page 19

Approach may aid chronic or non-healing wounds Don’t overlook osteoarthritis Fall in love... Often, dog owners miss cues that indicate their pets may have arthritis. “It’s easy to think that pets naturally slow down as they get older,” said Dr. Harper. And while that may Adopt today! be true, she points out that the underlying problem may be osteoarthritis. “More often than not, our pets slow down due to painful arthritic joints,” she said. Paris is a real sweetheart and a very special girl Younger pets also suffer from osteoarthritis. For this reason, pet owners should be vigilant about who is deaf. She’s nice, friendly and gentle. She is noticing changes in their pet's behavior and how the quite comfortable being around new people and pet moves around. Luckily, whether the dog is young adapts well to new situations. She has a ball playing or old, treatments are available to improve the quality with all kinds of toys and having her share of fun. She of life in pets with joint or lameness issues. In loves to give and get affection and to be petted and “If this works, or even if this is one step in the correct direction, addition to PRP, surgical treatment, weight loss, brushed. This happy-go-lucky girl also gets along I will be thrilled. With the possibility to prevent several cancer types physical rehabilitation therapy, laser therapy and well with other cats. She’d be overjoyed to find a before they develop, somebody absolutely needs to do the study.” simple pain relief medications can be effective forever family who understands her needs and can ~ David Vail, UW Veterinary Care options depending on the individual patient. share lots of love and happiness with her. “Whatever approach is selected, pet owners need Adoptions are held at the Bolingbrook PetSmart to be consistent and diligent about carrying out the on Weber Road from 1–3 p.m. on Sundays and 5–7 recommended protocol for it to benefit their pet,” said p.m. on Wednesdays. If the cat you’re looking for Dr. Harper. The rehabilitation process depends on isn’t there or those times don’t work for you, please consistency in the treatments. If you have any concerns about the orthopedic call Humane Haven Animal Shelter (630-378-4208) health of your pet, see your local veterinarian to for more information or an appointment. All Humane discuss treatment options. Haven cats are spayed or neutered, microchipped, FeLV/FIV tested, and have their distemper and rabies From vetmed.illinois.edu/pet_column/ shots. Visit hhas.org/home0.aspx; email platelet-rich-plasma-dogs-lameness [email protected]. PARIS

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Vogelzang Law raises funds at Geneva’s Viking ship American Lung Association’s announces 2019 visit days Fight For Air Climb Visit the Viking ship at Good Templar Park in Geneva. This season’s public visit days are 1–4 p.m., April 20, May 18, June 22–23, July 20, Aug. 17, Sept. 21 and Oct. 19–20.

The Viking is 78 feet long, 17 feet wide, and 6.5 feet high, from the bottom of the keel to the gunwale. Its oak planks are fastened together with thousands of iron rivets. The Viking averaged 10 knots and the hull was observed to flex with the waves. The Viking was built at Christen Christensen’s Caption: F r a m n e s S h i p y a r d i n Jean Benson of Aurora Sandefjord, Norway in 1892- Vogelzang Law made a strong showing last month at the American Lung 93. In 1893, the Viking sailed Association’s annual Fight for Air Climb. The climb, which takes place in the from Norway to Chicago, via Presidential Towers in Chicago, invites participants to climb 180 skyscraper Al Benson photo JULIE—I WOULD USE THIS AS A PULL-OUT: the Erie Canal and the Great floors to raise awareness and funding in the fight for better lung health. Geneva's Viking replica longship, called the Viking, has Lakes, and became one of the greatest attractions at the World’s Columbian Team Vogelzang Law successfully climbed all four towers this year, raising announced its 2019 visit days, including extra days each for Exposition, Chicago World’s Fair. $934 between the law firm’s six participants. As a whole, the American Lung June Swedish Days and October Cottages in the Woods Geneva’s Viking replica longship, called the Viking, has announced its 2019 Association raised nearly $500,000 at the climb on March 10. These funds will festival. support educational initiatives, important research, and community outreach visit days, including extra days each for June Swedish Days and October The public is invited. The life-size Viking is housed at efforts on behalf of lung health. As a law firm completely dedicated to Cottages in the Woods festival. The public is invited. The life-size Viking is Good Templar Park, 528 East Side Dr., in Geneva. Parking is mesothelioma clients, Vogelzang Law knows the importance of clean air and housed at Good Templar Park, 528 East Side Dr., in Geneva. Parking is free. free. Special visit days are June 22–23, in observance of healthy lungs. The team remains committed to a cure and hopes to continue to Special visit days are June 22–23, in observance of Swedish Days; and Oct. Swedish Days; and Oct. 19–20, in observance of Cottages in find ways to positively impact the Chicago community. 19–20, in observance of Cottages in the Woods festival. the Woods festival. The 2019 Fight for Air Climb was a huge success in support of individuals Guided group tours begin every 30 minutes with the last tour at 3:30 p.m. and families facing lung disease. Vogelzang Law proudly supports the American Self-guided viewing is also available. Admission is $5 for adults and $3 for Guided group tours begin every 30 minutes with the last Lung Association’s mission to improve lung health and prevent lung disease. teens. Group tours are available with two weeks advance notice. The fee is $50. tour at 3:30 p.m. Self-guided viewing is also available. Vogelzang Law is located at 401 N. Michigan Ave., #350, Chicago, IL For more information about visit days, call 630-753-9412 or email Admission is $5 for adults and $3 for teens. Group tours are 60611. Call 312-766-6795 or visit vogelzanglaw.com. [email protected]. available with two weeks advance notice. The fee is $50. For more information about visit days, call 630-753-9412 or email [email protected]. ------

The Viking is about 78 feet long, 17 feet wide, and 6.5 feet high, from the bottom of the keel to the gunwale. Its oak planks are fastened together with thousands of iron rivets. At sea, the Viking averaged 10 knots and the hull was observed to flex with the waves. The Viking was built at Christen Christensen's Framnes Shipyard in Sandefjord, Norway in 1892-93. It was copied after the ancient Viking ship Gokstad. Excavated in 1880, the Gokstad had been called the most beautiful ship ever built. In 1893, the Viking sailed from Norway to Chicago, via the Erie Canal and the Great Lakes, and became one of the greatest attractions at the World's Columbian Exposition, Chicago World's Fair. At the close of the Fair the Viking traveled to New Orleans. The next year, she was returned to Chicago and presented to the Field Columbian Museum. Soon, the Viking was in dry dock alongside the museum. The Federation of Norwegian Women's Societies saw her plight and began a restoration effort. After her repair and restoration, the Viking was relocated to Lincoln Park in 1920, placed under a fenced-in, wooden shelter and transferred to the care of the Commissioners of Lincoln Park, which later consolidated into the Chicago Park District. Although legal trustee of the Viking ship, the Chicago Park District set aside no funds for maintenance of the boat or its shelter. For many decades, the Norwegian-American community provided maintenance to the ship. But as the years passed, the Viking began to suffer. In 1978 the Scandinavian-American community rallied by forming The Viking Ship Restoration Committee, whose goal was to restore the Viking and find suitable permanent housing. The Committee consisted of individuals from various Scandinavian organizations. They raised funds through donations and began efforts to place the Viking ship inside the Museum of Science and Industry. Once close to success, their attempt failed. In 1993, the Chicago Park District made it known that the Viking would have to be moved from its location to make room for expansion of the Lincoln Park Zoo. The general GETTHECONNECTION.ONLINE superintendent of the Chicago Park District wrote to the Viking Ship Restoration Committee, requesting that the ship be cleaned, tarped and moved from Lincoln Park to proper storage. When the Viking Ship Restoration Committee did not respond to their letter, the general superintendent sold the ship to the American Scandinavian Council in 1994. The American Scandinavian Council assumed the obligation to display, repair and care for the ship within Chicago. The Council transported the Viking some 40-plus miles to a materials yard in West Chicago and secured it under a canopy. Two years later, the Viking was moved to Good Templar Park in Geneva, where it remains. The fabric canopy has been replaced several times. The dragon “head” and “tail” of the ship are in storage at the Museum of Science and Industry. April 2019 CThe ONNECTION Page 21 Down & Across Wordsearch By Donald Blocher Hill of Crosses 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11

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57 58 59 TOKEN HOPE CROSSES UNESCO CENTURIES CROCHET FAITHFUL MONUMENT ACROSS 38 Aaron’s ally 9 Kind of ad WOOD ICONS ROSARY HILL 1 Steven of Apple 39 Bandleader Brown 10 In the past JOHN PAUL MAP COMMUNITY NATIONAL MEDALS TRIBUTES UNITE HONOR Computers 40 President Truman’s 11 Decimal point RELIGIOUS IRON CRUCIFIX 5 Raincoat first lady 19 Kind of workers, for 9 Tablet 41 Dog short 12 Neighborhood 43 Sea route 21 Television network 13 Together, musically 45 In one’s chair 23 Ottoman official 14 Type of trip 49 Railroad timber 25 Hawaiian state bird 15 Showman Griffin 51 European river 26 Former spouses 16 Lend a hand 53 Auctioneer's last word 27 Seize suddenly 17 Go to pot 54 Help out 28 Land of leprechauns 18 Capital of Colombia 55 Dismounted 29 Canine transports 20 Twitches 56 Tiny particle 31 Lofty retreat 22 Sharp high-pitched 57 Grunts, so to speak 34 Eventides barks 58 Holds up 37 Pro-American chant 24 Less than one 59 Middling: hyph. wd. 41 Violin’s kin 27 Dropout’s doc. 42 Heroic tales 30 Actress Farrow 44 Draw close 31 Addition to a DOWN 46 Dorothy’s pooch 1 Doorway post 47 Son of Seth: Biblical building 2 Crossworder’s favorite 32 Resort town of 48 Showroom model cookie 49 Children’s game Brazil 3 Ice block 50 Junior’s junior 33 Old-hat 4 Kind of cabbage 52 Baby’s dinner-wear 35 Actress Sue _____ 5 Gospel singer Jackson Langdon 6 Fruit cooler 36 Hundred-eyed 7 sects Puzzle answers monster 8 Yachting cap on page 24.

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GETTHECONNECTION.ONLINE Page 22 CThe ONNECTION April 2019 What’s on America’s bucket list

Study by Provision Living

What’s on your bucket list? What adventure would you like to have or what place would you like to visit? Many people like to use a bucket list—or a list of experiences or achievements that they hope to accomplish while living life to the fullest. We wanted to find out more about how Americans feel about bucket lists, what’s on them, and how many people actually have one. The results were pretty revealing. After surveying 2,000 people, we found that 95 percent of them had a bucket list, 21 percent change their bucket list at least once a month and 66 percent plan on checking off an item within the next year, which proves that the bucket list isn’t just a catchphrase—it’s actually guiding the way people think about experiences and life events. Here’s more about what we found on our bucket list survey. How bucket lists get started Where does the idea for a bucket list originate? Is it something that a retired couple brings up one day before the beginning of their golden years? Is a bucket list something that you start when you’re young? Our survey reveals that a large percentage of people start their bucket list when they get to a certain age (38 percent). Other reasons for starting a bucket list include being influenced by some sort of media (12 percent),

after they went on a trip (11 percent), illness or death in the family (eight percent), a recommendation from a family member or friend (five percent), a change in relationship status (four percent), being laid off from a job (three percent) and an income change (three percent). Only four percent of survey respondents said they didn’t have a bucket list. What America’s bucket list looks like Everyone has different dreams about their lives, but what similarities do we have on our bucket list? We asked our survey participants to let us know a little more about what’s on their bucket lists by category. Without a doubt, the most popular experience on someone’s bucket list had to do with travel—and 77 percent of our survey indicated that they had some sort of travel goal on their personal lists. Following travel, many (71 percent) had financial goals on their bucket list, personal development goals (71 percent), family goals (67 percent), health goals (55 percent), hobby goals (47 percent), career goals (42 percent), spiritual development goals (40 percent) and volunteer-related goals (27 percent). The most desired specific experiences on people’s bucket lists were the following: skydiving, winning the lottery and having kids. And what about the least desired? Our survey said getting arrested, breaking a minor law and trying online dating. Travel bucket list One thing that’s clear is that Americans are itching to check places off their sight-seeing list. But where exactly do they want to go? And how many places do they want to visit? The average number of travel destinations on a bucket list is eight—a pretty demanding travel schedule for some. The top countries on people’s bucket lists were Australia, Italy,

YOU KNOW YOU WANT TO! CHECK OUT GETTHECONNECTION.ONLINE April 2019 CThe ONNECTION Page 23

By Colleen Leahy

University of Wisconsin Veterinary Care https://uwveterinarycare.wisc.edu/

Ireland, Japan, the United Kingdom, France, Greece, the Bahamas, Egypt and Germany. The top 20 cities that are on people’s must-see list are Honolulu, New York, Las Vegas, Anchorage, San Francisco, Los Angeles, New Orleans, Seattle, Austin, Boston, Denver, Atlanta, Portland, DC, Miami, Chicago, San Diego, Anaheim, Orlando and Albuquerque. We also asked our survey participants if they preferred to travel to these destinations with a partner or alone. About half (52 percent) said they wanted to bring a spouse or significant other on a bucket list trip and only 14 percent said they wanted to go solo. Financial bucket list When it comes to bucket list items, are people willing to put their money where the list is? From our survey, we found that the most amount of money people are willing to spend Of our Baby Boomer survey participants, 34 percent said their age on a bucket list item was an average of $3,081—with Boomers saying they would spend has limited their ability to try new life experiences, but 62 percent said $3,204 and Millennials being a little bit more frugal by saying they’d spend $2,959. they feel younger than their current age. We also asked our survey participants what their top financial bucket list goals were. And because this survey was designed to get people thinking and The top answers were to pay off debt, pay off their mortgage, retire early, save up for a reflecting on their lives, we wanted to ask our participants this: What child’s college tuition, give to charity and buy a home. age were you happiest? The average answer was 29, but Baby Boomer What is preventing people from checking things off their list? respondents said they were happiest at 32, while Millennials said 21 was A bucket list is only just a list of things you want to accomplish—not a guarantee that their happiest year. it’ll happen. So, what is preventing people from checking things off their list? We wanted Regardless of your age, there’s no reason to limit your experiences. to find out. A bucket list can help you push yourself to take new chances, visit new Most of the participants (57 percent) cited finances as the reason why they haven’t places and live life to the fullest at any age. So, get out there and start checked off things from their bucket list. Beyond that, others blamed a lack of time (14 checking off your list. percent), family responsibilities (11 percent), age (five percent), fear (five percent), health From provisionliving.com/ (three percent), no one to experience it with (three percent) and laziness (two percent). survey-reveals-whats-on-americas-bucket-list

ONE DAY YOUR LIFE WILL FLASH BEFORE YOUR EYES. MAKE SURE IT IS WORTH WATCHING. Page 24 CThe ONNECTION April 2019 Petra: The Jewel of Jordan

By Katy Koontz

If you’ve seen the 1989 movie Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade, then you’ve seen Petra, the ruins of I walked another mile down a narrow valley known as Wadi Musa an ancient city in the Jordanian desert, known for its (“valley of Moses”), hemmed in by craggy mountains. I passed more intricately carved sandstone facades. In the movie, tombs, including some so eroded by sandstorms that they appeared to be Jones searches for the Holy Grail, the cup used by melting—their rock faces naturally marbled with swirling stripes of reds, Jesus at the Last Supper. While he does indeed find pinks, rusts and beige. The remains of a 6,000-seat, Greco-Roman-style the artifact in the film’s final scenes, shot in Petra, fate theater (also carved into the rock), a colonnaded street and a Byzantine prevents him from returning home with his prize. church (built after Petra's prime) added to the ambiance. While in the movie, the temple housing the grail At the end of the valley, I climbed 800-some stone steps up a is destroyed; in reality, Petra still stands, glorious as mountain and followed a narrow path past countless tables manned by ever. This stone city was the capital of the Nabateans, Bedouin merchants. Many tended small fires, over which they heated who controlled a thriving spice trade industry that kettles, and some offered me tea. As I climbed, the views of Petra grew included India, Greece, the Roman Empire, and increasingly dizzying. It was well worth the effort to see the second- China for nearly 400 years, starting about 300 B.C. century grand façade of Ad Deir (“the Monastery”) at the top—its 165- To enter the site, I walked through a mile-long foot-wide façade towering 150 feet above the ground with a massive 25- slot canyon known as the Siq. Its 250-foot-high red- foot-high doorway. rock walls hold ancient votive niches displaying Heading back toward the Treasury, I scrambled up another carved- religious symbols from groups the Nabateans traded step path to ascend a second mountain, Jabal Madhbah (“mountain of the with, making the walk feel somewhat holy. altar”). This mountain is considered by many to be the Biblical Mount The Siq opens directly in front of Al Khazneh Sinai, where Moses received the Ten Commandments. (“the Treasury”), the temple in the film. A dozen The route was shorter but steeper than that to the Monastery. By the stories high, it is decked out with Western-style time I neared the top 40 minutes later, the imposing tombs below looked Al Khazneh (“the Treasury”) peeks through the columns, capitals and pediments that were carved A Bedouin with his camels in front of Petra’s like doll houses. Passing a pair of 20-foot stone obelisks, I heard talking end of the mile-long slot canyon known as the into its rose-colored sandstone during the first or Al Khazneh (“the Treasury”), carved out of a and looked up to see a Bedouin woman clutching a small metal flute Siq, the entrance to the ancient city of Petra in second century. The much smaller, stark interior is sandstone cliff in the first century A.D. emerge from a little teashop on a nearby rock outcrop. Two visitors Jordan. Katy Koontz photo thought to be a tomb. Katy Koontz photo followed her, and she beckoned me to follow, as well. Soon reaching an overlook, we peered down at the valley 550 feet below. The few people we could make out looked like poppy seeds. Soon, we arrived at the summit to find a 50-by-20-foot platform with www.GOLDEN FRONTIER.org stone benches and a central low, stone table. Four steps led to another Sponsored by Catholic Shrine Pilgrimage rock platform, where a carving of a Nabatean deity once stood, not far ADVERTISE IN from a round, stone basin (complete with a carved channel) and a cistern 2019 Pilgrimage Trips for washing. This was the High Place of Sacrifice, whose rituals had long THE CONNECTION’S since been lost to time. As the closing hour neared, I reluctantly trekked IRELAND IN MAY 2019 back to the Siq. HEALTH & WELLNESS Unlike Moses, I did not come down from this mountain with any The land of Saints and Scholars. Ten-day stone tablets, but I certainly left Petra with many commanding memories. trip including Dublin, St. Kevin at Glendalough, Killarney, Galway Bay, Cliffs PULLOUT SECTION of Moher, Shrine of Our Lady of Knock and more. On this trip we use Hotels and CALL 847-428-0205 Guesthouses, warm Irish homes we share with Irish families, each having several guest rooms, all accommodations with private bath. 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Ask us for more information about these 2019 International Trips ❏ Ireland — 10 days in May, 2019 ……………………………. $3,868 ❏ Alaskan Cruise — 8 days in September, 2019 ……...…from $2,425 o Rome and Assisi — 9 days in March, 2019 ...... $3,590 ❏ Poland — 10 days in October, 2019 ...... $4,130 o Sorrento — 9 days in March, 2019 ...... $3,613 ❏ France — 11 days in October, 2019 …………………………… $4,188 o Poland — 10 days in March-April, 2019 ...... $3,888 ❏ Portugal River Cruise and Fatima – 12 days, Nov. 2 to 13 ………from $4,768 o Ireland — 10 days in May, 2019 ...... $TBA ❏ Greece — 9 days in November, 2019 ………………………………... $3,768 DOWN & ACROSS PUZZLE on page 21 ❏ Florence, Assisi, Rome — 11 days, Nov. 4 to 14 ………………….. $4,128 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 o France – 11 days in October, 2019 …...... …………………….... $TBA J O B S M A C K P A D 12 13 14 o ❏ Rome and Assisi — 9 days in November, 2019 ...... $3,668 A R E A A D U E E G O Greece — 9 days in November, 2019 ...... $TBA 15 16 17 ❏ Holy Lands — 10 days in December, 2019 …….....……………………… $4,154 M E R V H E L P R O T o 18 19 20 21 Rome, Florence, Assisi — 11 days in November, 2019 ...... $TBA B O G O T A T I C S ❏ Sorrento — 9 days in March, 2020 ...... $3,778 22 23 24 25 26 o Y E L P S N O N E Holy Lands — 10 days in November, 2019 ...... $TBA 27 28 29 30 31 G E D M I A A N N E X Golden Frontier offers travel to places of interest for people of the Catholic faith. Sponsored by the 32 33 34 35 R I O P A S S E A N E nonprofit Catholic Shrine Pilgrimage, these trips are designed for adults with seniors in mind. 36 37 38 39 A R G U S H U R L E S Travel with the camaraderie and friendship of fellow Catholics on trips accompanied by priest 40 41 42 B E S S C A N I S chaplains. All trips include round trip air from Chicago/ORD. 43 44 45 46 47 48 L A N E S E A T E D 49 50 51 52 53 Call Toll Free 1-888-284-6725, Fax (618) 234-9861 or mail to: T I E E L B E G O N E 54 55 56 A I D A L I T A T O M Golden Frontier Trips 4100 N. Illinois St. Swansea, Illinois 62226 57 58 59 Email: [email protected] www.goldenfrontier.org G I S R O B S S O S O

CALL GOLDEN FRONTIER TOLL FREE AT 888-284-6725 FOR ADDITIONAL INFORMATION. April 2019 CThe ONNECTION Page 25

The Silk Tomb, one of the Royal Tombs of Petra, dating from the early first century A.D. Eroded A Bedouin woman who works at a tea house at A Bedouin tea set at a café in front of Petra’s Ad by sand and wind, many of Petra’s temples almost the ancient site of Petra in Jordan. Deir (“the Monastery”), which dates from the appear to be melting. Katy Koontz photo Katy Koontz photo early second century A.D. Katy Koontz photo

I walked another mile down a narrow valley known as Wadi Musa (“valley of Moses”), hemmed in by craggy mountains. I passed more tombs, including some so eroded by sandstorms that they appeared to be melting—their rock faces naturally marbled with swirling stripes of reds, pinks, rusts and beige. The remains of a 6,000-seat, Greco-Roman-style theater (also carved into the rock), a colonnaded street and a Byzantine church (built after Petra’s prime) added to the ambiance. At the end of the valley, I climbed 800-some stone steps up a mountain and followed a narrow path past countless tables manned by Bedouin merchants. Many tended small fires, over which they heated kettles, and some offered me tea. As I climbed, the views of Petra grew increasingly dizzying. It was well worth the effort to see the second-century grand façade of Ad Deir (“the Monastery”) at the top—its 165-foot-wide façade towering 150 feet above the ground with a massive 25- foot-high doorway. Heading back toward the Treasury, I scrambled up another carved-step path to ascend a second mountain, Jabal Madhbah (“mountain of the altar”). This mountain is considered by many to be the Biblical Mount Sinai, where Moses received the Ten Commandments. The route was shorter but steeper than that to the Monastery. By the time I neared the top 40 minutes later, the imposing tombs below looked like doll houses. Passing a pair of 20-foot stone obelisks, I heard talking and looked up to see a Bedouin woman clutching a small metal flute emerge from a little teashop on a nearby rock outcrop. Two visitors followed her, and she beckoned me to follow, as well. Soon reaching an overlook, we peered down at the valley 550 feet below. The few people we could make out looked like poppy seeds. Soon, we arrived at the summit to find a 50-by-20-foot platform with stone benches and a central low, stone table. Four steps led to another rock platform, where a carving of a Nabatean deity once stood, not far from a round, stone basin (complete with a carved channel) and a cistern for washing. This was the High Place of Sacrifice, whose rituals had long since been lost to time. As the closing hour neared, I reluctantly trekked back to the Siq. Unlike Moses, I did not come down from this mountain with any stone tablets, but I certainly left Petra with many commanding memories.

Katy Koontz is a freelance travel writer living in Knoxville, TN. She is the author of Family Fun in the Smokies: A Family Friendly Guide to the Great Smoky Mountains (Great Smoky Mountains Association, 2012). Visit katykoontz.com.

YOU KNOW YOU WANT TO! CHECK OUT GETTHECONNECTION.ONLINE Page 26 CThe ONNECTION April 2019

cross-making that UNESCO recognizes the craft as a “symbol of national and religious identity” that unites Criss-crossing the community during adversity. In the jigsaw of crosses, some tributes seem funereal, others grateful. And there’s something celebratory, too, as families arrive with their the Hill of Crosses daughters in clouds of tulle—some fresh from their christenings, some right from their weddings. One happy group poses for a cross-backdropped By Betsa Marsh photo. Is it a birthday party? A job promotion? The meaning can be as individual as the inscriptions on In a perfect crescendo, the wind kicks up a crystalline tinkling of fairy bells. A each cross. deeper reverb of metal on wood echoes the beat. How did it all begin? Like so much about the hill, I’m tempted to twirl on the mountaintop like Maria in Sound of Music, arms it’s mysterious. Some say the first crosses appeared stretched wide to the thousands of crosses and rosaries making their own symphony. furtively in the 14th century, silently calling out for Like generations of pilgrims before us, my friend Pat and I have set out for Lithuanian freedom. After peasant rebellions in 1831 Lithuania’s Hill of Crosses. It’s a long way from the States to this windy northern and 1863, crosses popped up to honor dead freedom plain—4,627 miles for us—but as soon as we hear accents from around the globe, fighters. queuing up to buy a cross or a rosary, we know that we’ve blended into a flood of Resistance grew during the Soviet occupation faithful. We want to join in, leaving a prayer and a token for someone who needs help. from 1944 to 1991. The Russians bulldozed and Pope John Paul II honored that impulse when he said Mass at the Hill of Crosses on burned the Hill in April 1961, but crosses popped Sept. 7, 1993. He thanked Lithuanians for the Hill, a testimony to their faith, and back up. They repeated the clearances four more declared the site a place for sacrifice, peace and hope. times, but nevertheless, the Hill of Crosses persisted. Modern travelers are welcome to climb the steps to his wooden podium, recapturing Today, the Hill remains free of governmental the panorama of crucifixes he saw that day. jurisdiction, so travelers from around the world bring We traveled south from Latvia’s capital, Riga, for the two hours to Siauliai County their crosses, medals and rosaries. The monument and the turn off to Kryzių Kalnas, Hill of Crosses. Smooth asphalt turns into jarring grows organically. road, as flat fields of barley and rye give away to oats, wheat and the occasional eye- During our late afternoon visit, an older couple watering pig farm. touches up the paint on a tall metallic cross, the man The Hill of Crosses isn’t on every map, yet faithful find this pilgrimage spot around wiping crimson off his hands and the woman picking the clock. We place our little crosses, inscribed with names of our friends and relatives up nearby debris. There's a solemnity to the work in pain, among dainty little yellow flowers on a staircase. Nothing showy, just little that's lightened by the fairy bells of tinkling rosary tokens of hope. beads and the mellow clank of medals tapping This sea of icons bobs with crosses of wood, iron pipe, even crochet, every way a wooden crosses. human hand can craft a cross. Some say they number 100,000, some say thousands When you go more. It would be impossible to take a census, from six-inch simple crosses to The Hill of Crosses, Kryzių Kalnas, is in Siauliai crucifixes soaring 20 feet. It seems to be an egalitarian jumble, with exquisite carvings County, northwest Lithuania. Visit sharing pride of place with homespun crafts. lithuania.travel/en/place/the-hill-of-crosses. We stop by the line of vendors near the information booth to buy six-inch wooden Image of a Virgin on top of the Hill of Crosses, crosses with filigree appliqués, a euro each. We have hundreds of styles to pick from, The Hill of Crosses is pure egalitarianism—there are no rules for Lithuania. Photo by Diego Delso bounty of a cottage industry in this rural district. Lithuanians are so renowned for their how any memorial or marker must be placed. Betsa Marsh photo

Richard A. Kocurek 1201 Dixie Highway, Beecher, IL 60401 Tel: 708-946-2600 Fax: 708-946-9411 Attorney at Law The Willow of Marengo, Inc. Email: [email protected] Personal and Affordable Legal Services 546 East Grant Highway Marengo, Illinois 60152 Wills and Trusts Real Estate Probate Matters Marcia Quale Power of Attorney Estate Planning Guardianships Telephone: 815.568.8322 Administrator Berwyn Office: Glen Ellyn Office: Facsimile: 815.568.0135 3306 S. Grove Ave. 45 S. Park Blvd. (708) 795-0230 (630) 545-0220 Beecher Manor

POPE JOHN PAUL II VISITED THE HILL OF CROSSES IN SEPTEMBER 1993. April 2019 CThe ONNECTION Page 27

Pope John Paul II looked out to this panorama of crosses when he said Mass at the Hill of Crosses in 1993. Betsa Marsh photo cross-making that UNESCO recognizes the craft as a “symbol of national and religious identity” that unites the community during adversity. In the jigsaw of crosses, some tributes seem funereal, others grateful. We place our humble crosses along a stairway, beside dainty yellow And there’s something celebratory, too, as families arrive with their blossoms. Betsa Marsh photo daughters in clouds of tulle—some fresh from their christenings, some right from their weddings. One happy group poses for a cross-backdropped photo. Is it a birthday party? A job promotion? The meaning can be as individual as the inscriptions on each cross. How did it all begin? Like so much about the hill, it’s mysterious. Some say the first crosses appeared furtively in the 14th century, silently calling out for Lithuanian freedom. After peasant rebellions in 1831 and 1863, crosses popped up to honor dead freedom fighters. Resistance grew during the Soviet occupation from 1944 to 1991. The Russians bulldozed and burned the Hill in April 1961, but crosses popped back up. They repeated the clearances four more times, but nevertheless, the Hill of Crosses persisted. Today, the Hill remains free of governmental jurisdiction, so travelers from around the world bring their crosses, medals and rosaries. The monument grows organically. During our late afternoon visit, an older couple touches up the paint on a tall metallic cross, the man wiping crimson off his hands and the woman picking up nearby debris. There’s a solemnity to the work that’s lightened by the fairy bells of tinkling rosary beads and the mellow clank of medals tapping wooden crosses. When you go The Hill of Crosses, Kryzių Kalnas, is in Siauliai County, northwest Lithuania. Visit lithuania.travel/en/place/the- hill-of-crosses.

Travel journalist Betsa Marsh has reported from more than 100 countries on seven continents. She is past president of the Society of American Travel Writers.

CHECK OUT THE CONNECTION’S WEBSITE ~ GETTHECONNECTION.ONLINE Page 28 CThe ONNECTION April 2019 Remember When Saint of the Month St. Adalbert of Prague

REMEMBER The Green Hornet radio show? Saint Adalbert of Prague, given the name Vojtěch at birth, was born in the REMEMBER “You get a lot to like in a year 956 to an affluent family line of Bohemian princes, which is modern day Marlboro—filter, flavor, flip-top box.” Czech Republic. In Magdeburg, Germany, he studied theology, and he was REMEMBER Kermit Schaeffer’s Pardon My baptized with the name Adalbert after his catechist. REV. SCOTT DONAHUE Blooper LPs? Unlike the blooper compilations of today, After the death of his mentor in 981, Adalbert developed ideas for many of the bloopers on these records were re-created, missionary work and clerical reform, so he returned to Prague to carry out his not the original voices uttering the actual bloopers as vision. they went out over the airwaves. But they sure were In 982, Adalbert was elected bishop funny! There were, I believe, nine Blooper records and showed support for the political CYNTHIA issued altogether. views of the prince of Bohemia, Boleslav MACGREGOR REMEMBER “Good health, all, from Rexall”? II. His visions highlighted broadening REMEMBER TV comedian Red Buttons? Not to the reach of the church outside the Czech be confused with Red Skelton, Buttons had a gentler brand of humor, not as zany kingdom to better mold the standards of as some of Skelton’s characters. church life, unfortunately without much REMEMBER when the corner drugstore always had at least one phone understanding and comprehension from booth, often two? The booths were wooden, with wood seats and folding doors his people. Tension began to develop of wood with glass panes. between the bishop and the prince, so REMEMBER “Hello there, it’s Yogi Bear,” at the start of every Yogi Bear Adalbert left for Rome in 990 to become a program, which also featured his sidekick, Boo-Boo. “Yogi Bear is better than monk. the average bear. Yogi’s always getting in the ranger’s hair… He will sleep till Two years later, John XV noon, but before it’s dark, he'll have every picnic basket that’s in Jellystone commanded the return of Adalbert to Park.” And another cartoon on the same program featured Augie Doggie and Prague but he was stripped of his Doggie Daddy. REMEMBER standing on the playground swings to dangerously swing episcopal responsibilities in 995, which back and forth… as long as no parent, playground supervisor, or other was decided after the massacre of his responsible adult caught you and stopped you? family ordered by Prince Boleslav II. St. Adalbert of Prague REMEMBER… Did your parents ever turn your backyard slide into a While back in Prague, Adalbert founded water slide by turning the garden hose on and placing the nozzle at the top of the the abbey of Brevnov. slide, aimed downward? Then, Adalbert was invited by the duke of Poland to evangelize the Prussians of Pomerania and later was was martyred April 23, 997, near Gdańsk, Cynthia MacGregor is the author of over 100 published books. Besides Poland, after being suspected of being a Polish spy. writing, she also edits and does public speaking. Adalbert was canonized in 999, as the first bishop of Prague with Czech Her website is CynthiaMacGregor.com. heritage. In 1039, Adalbert’s body was transferred from Poland to Prague.

Garden of Since 1961 Holy Sepulchre Everlasting Life Catholic Cemetery Peaceful - Beautiful High Upon a Hill in West Dundee Holy Sepulchre Catholic Cemetery grounds were consecrated by Bishop Loras Lane of the Rockford Diocese in 1961. River Valley Memorial Gardens have a new Cremation Garden surrounding our Hand Carved Italian Marble statue within the Holy Sepulchre Catholic Cemetery. There are above ground Cremorials in Mathews Bronze and individual in ground plots available. RIVER VALLEY MEMORIAL GARDENS ¼ Mile North of I-90 on the East Side of Route 31

River Valley Memorial Gardens Office 510 Market Loop, Suite 104, West Dundee, IL • 847-426-3031

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