Where am I? Who am I?
Admit it. Aren't we all a bit jealous of our teacher friends who get those nice, extra-long summer breaks from their regular routine? They get to chill out, hit the beach, read some books, take a class or two.
What would you do with a summer off? I wonder if it would be the same as this columnist?
I'm going to spend the next few weeks learning a new job.
No, that's not quite the beach scene with plenty of books that I envisioned in my jealous moments. And I don't think it'll require sunscreen. But that's not to say it won't be fun!
Starting Monday, I'm putting my columnist hat on the shelf. I'll be learning how to produce our fine Neighbor sections and playing assistant Tri-Cities news editor. Please be patient with me while I learn a whole new system and get myself settled.
Know that I still very much want to hear what's going on and will help you get your news in the paper, even if it's not in this space. Send me an e-mail at amack@dailyherald.com and I'll help you get the word out. In fact, I'm pretty sure I'll have an "in" with the Neighbor editor!
What's up with that?
Tina DeLeonardis of Sleepy Hollow wrote wondering what's up with the former Cooper's Restaurant building on Route 31 in West Dundee. As you may know, it's been under construction for some time and I previously wrote it was on its way to becomng an Italian beef/hot dog/Portillo's type spot. Well, it's still on its way and what will be dubbed Maxwell's recently got approval from the village of West Dundee for exterior changes and a sign variance. Should we let them know a lot of us are eagerly waiting?
Ribs!
Thinking of eagerly waiting made me think Rockin' Rotary Ribfest. That event opens Thursday for what will be four days of fine food and entertainment at Lake in the Hills' Sunset Park. Gates open at 4:30 p.m. Thursday and Friday and 11:30 a.m. Saturday and Sunday. Go to rockinrotaryribfest.com for lots of details. We'll also give you lots more information later this week in our Neighbor section.
"Lucy ... I'm home!"
Marge Edwards of the Dundee Township Historical Society wants you to know they're holding their annual fundraising garage sale from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday in the museum parking lot, 426 Highland Ave., West Dundee. Antiques, glassware, china, furniture, jewelry, linens, "I Love Lucy" collectibles, home décor, Christmas items, and books are among the many treasures to be found. They won't be selling any clothing, however. Call the museum for details or to donate at (847) 428-6996.
Now on stage!
Mary Fioretti of Algonquin and also of Roosevelt University thinks many of you will want to know Roosevelt is again hosting Summer Stage, a weeklong camp for kids who love to sing, dance and act. It's from Aug. 11-15 at Roosevelt's Schaumburg campus, 1400 N. Roosevelt Road.
Summer Stage is led by a theater professional who will lead a series of workshops culminating in a one-act musical. For details, call Mary at (847) 619-7288.
So long!
OK, I'm signing off now to head about two desks down to my new gig. Keep those cards, letters and calls coming. I love to hear from you and very much want to help you find answers, share your news, and, as always, tweak a bureaucrat or two. Don't worry, I've still got their numbers.
If I can't get something done for you from my new chair, I promise to find someone who can.
Know I've enjoyed our conversations and hope we'll have our page 3 chats again soon. Meanwhile, please stay in touch and, as always, thanks for reading!