Carol Byars is back in town. Remember Carol? Her most recent last name is now Robinson and she’s been living in Arkansas. Carol has been staying with her longtime friend, Karen Rozmus.
Shown in the photos is a dollhouse constructed entirely by Rosalyn Leehey. Mrs. Leehey has incorporated some familiar artworks in her opus. Shown on the top floor is Vincent Van Gogh, recognizable by his yellow bed, red hair and missing ear (look closely). His bedroom will soon be completed, green floor, etc. Down by the front door, we see American Gothic, father, daughter (I think) and pitchfork. The furniture and all the people were made by Mrs. Leehey. “Roz” is a gentle soul and allows visiting kids to play with the house and furnishings. More famous art characters are yet to be added.
Forest Parkers are on the move this summer. Unfortunately, nowhere can you escape the intense heat. Fortunately, the heat has alternated with many very pleasant days and nights. Aulon Rahmani visited relatives in Kosovo, Albania. It was hot there, too. Scarlett Strickland delighted her Yia Yia in New Jersey when she came to visit (hot).
A wedding in Niem, France was the destination of Mark and Cindy Waldron. The Waldrons were honored guests at the chateau where the wedding took place. They were surprised to learn that many years ago the city of Niem made extremely durable blue cloth used by sailors. This blue material eventually found its way around the world and into other items of clothing and was worn by more than sailors. We know this material, bleu de niem, as blue denim.
As usual the Forest Park Community Center has exciting trips planned for the fall. Get your reservation in as soon as you can. But don’t despair, there are always cancellations. The oldest continuous fair in the state of Illinois is the Sandwich Fair. That date is Sept. 8. Be prepared for a lot of walking. Enjoy the beauty of the area. There are rides, harness races, and an array of exhibits. All for a mere $45 (non-residents $49). Shipshewana, Indiana on Sept. 14. You’ve heard about this Mennonite sensation. Food, food, and more food. All of it delicious and prepared by the Mennonites. There is also a musical comedy included in your ticket. A lot of walking here, too. Cost $71 ($75). You’re assured a great day. On the 21st of September, Four Winds Casino and Resort brings you to New Buffalo, Michigan for $41 residents, $49 non-residents. Walking! On the 28th the always intriguing Mystery Trip, $75 ($79), but not so much walking.
Happy birthday to Journey Alvarado on Aug. 10, also to Storey Novak and Connie Robey. On through the week it’s birthday time for Rebecca Greskoviak, Allison Pacyga, Jake Brown, Al Verri, Phil Jilek, Natalie Erickson, Dakota Staiger, Joe Davis, Grant Neubeiser, Reid Thompson, Colleen Murray, Rocco Cirrintano, Angela Tricoci, Kevin Nutley, Donna Prochazka, Tom Curry, and Sandy Boy.
Happy anniversary to Edward and Marie Zamora.
Jackie is a former Chicago and Elmwood Park schoolteacher with an undying love for music, friendly pets and a host of life’s other treasures too numerous to list. She was born on the far southwest side of Chicago in a great neighborhood when it was a great time to be young.
