If I could be like Dre
Like many of you, for Michael Jordan I drank Gatorade to “be like Mike.” I would do anything to attain his superhuman abilities. But realistically, few will ever experience the heights that professional athletes reach – physically, financially and socially. However, if given a chance to truly elevate one’s self, maybe we’d like to attain…
This artist harnesses earth, wind, fire and water
Above are the words pottery artist Simon Levin uses to describe himself professionally on his Instagram account. He could easily add Innovator, Clay Lover, Mentor, Teacher, Award Winner and Wood-Firing Kiln Builder. Levin, 55, is a highly skilled and gifted creator of one-of-a-kind utilitarian pottery, including plates, cups, bowls, vases and jars. He explains that…
Life after death
Many of us choose to live the rest of our lives alongside another. Two lives intricately and intimately woven together into a fabric of family, hopes and dreams. But what happens when one dies before the other? What happens to the one left behind to grieve not only the loss of their love, but also…
Explore Your Community
As events may be canceled or rescheduled at the last moment, please first check with the host or venue when making plans to attend an event. Ongoing Jacksonville Festival of Lights Through-Dec. 31, 5-9pm. This magnificent drive-thru experience will be the festive highlight of the holiday season. Food pantry donations accepted. $10 per car. Morgan…
Generations traveling together
Ross and Sheila Hodel started with water parks, graduated to ski trips and national parks and this summer upped their muti-generational family trip game with hiking in Switzerland. They say such trips give them quality time with their children and grandchildren. They are not alone. According to several travel magazines and travel agents, family vacations…
Winter fun online
If it’s too cold to leave your house or your pajamas are glued on, you can still enjoy the season. Exercise, take a class, learn a craft, visit other locales and find new friends through your laptop or cellphone. While these activities are often better in person, the weather, illness and other conditions can make…
Grandpa plays baseball
Ron Michaelson had a long and distinguished career in Illinois state government, first moving to Springfield to work for Gov. Richard Ogilvie. He still resides in Springfield and has always been physically active. Michaelson loves baseball. He started in Little League when he was eight and is still playing at 81. He competes in the…
The power of purpose
A recent scientific study published in Preventive Medicine showed a link between individuals who felt a greater sense of purpose in their lives with a decreased mortality rate, by about 20% in some cases. The study used around 13,000 Americans who were 50 years and older who were studied for two years with an eight-year…
