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MY SUN DAY NEWS

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Sun City in Huntley
 
News & Features Columnists Editorials Hang Your Hat Obituaries My Huntley News

June 6, 2013

Columnists

Huntley bicycle patrol pedals through the streets again this summer

Our Huntley Police Department’s bicycle patrol is in action again. The program, which has been in force for several years, is designed to interact with our citizens. It will not replace the normal patrol duties of HPD but rather give it an extended outreach to the community during summer months.

An alternative to cable

Earlier this year, I wrote a col­umn on “negotiating rates for products and service.” At a subsequent Sun City Town Hall Meeting, the idea of negotiating with Comcast was posed by a community member. Our board President indicated that a mem­ber of the Board was approach­ing Comcast to determine what, if anything, could be done to obtain more reasonable rates for members or our community.

Hello sunshine, Part I

It has been a long winter in Huntley, and many of you can’t wait to get to the “social pool,” lay out in the sun for that gorgeous tan, and bask in the warmth of spring. Others of you will head for the golf and tennis courts or simply work in your yards.

A solution to the ‘water hammer’ problem

Question: We recently purchased a new front-loading washing machine and everything is great except every time the washing machine turns off the water, there is a loud banging noise. It even rattles the pipes in the wall. Is there any way to quiet this down?

Reasons to consider pruning your plants this spring

Pruning is a common spring gardening chore. When done correctly it can lead to increased flowers, neater appearance, and better plant health. When done incorrectly it can affect the shape, health, and flowers on plants for many years to come. This Gardener’s Forum will be the first of a two-part series on pruning.

Laughter By Paul 05/23/13

Two lawyers, Jon and Chuck, head out for their usual nine holes of golf. Jon offers Chuck a bet. “Let’s say we bet $50.”

Ask an Angel 5/23/13

Q. Now that I am in my “golden years,” I am seeing my neighbors and friends pass on, and this is leaving me with a feeling of great sadness. I feel alone, too. I don’t know how to cope some days.

The schoolyard clash of the bully-battling mantras

Quick now — complete this sentence: “Sticks and stones may break my bones…”
Chances are, if you are old enough to have put classrooms and playgrounds behind you, you ended the quote with something like “but words will never hurt me.”

Another property tax increase

In the September 20, 2012 issue of the Sun Day, I wrote a column entitled “Taxation without representation.” In that article I expressed particular concern over the exorbitant amount of property taxes we pay in support of School District 158.

Tips for outdoor playtime

Spring has sprung and our dogs are anxious to get outside! There are a few precautions we should take in order to make sure their time outside is a safe one.

Ask an Angel 05/09

Q. I have heard that it’s very easy to get sick when flying on an airplane. What can I do to protect myself?

Blue-plate specials and anatomically correct toddy mugs

If you glanced into the kitchen cupboard of my home when I was a kid, you would think we lived in Random Acres.

It’s an emergency!

What emergency you ask? Does someone need help? Did they call 911? My wife reminded me of a recent real life experience I would like to share with you.

The secondhand market saves you money

As the world goes more and more digital, we are experiencing growth in some new businesses that can save us money.

Laughter By Paul – 05/09

A man and woman were recently celebrating their 50th wedding anniversary. While cutting the cake, the wife was moved after seeing her husband’s eyes fill with tears.

Tips on lawn care from a longtime friend, Part II

About eight years ago, my husband picked up a small wooden plaque at a garage sale and hung it above our pantry door. At dinner, our daughter Sarah’s chair faces in such a way that she looks directly at this plaque.

Coming health attractions

I want to say “hello” to my former class participants who have taken my classes many times as well as to new people who may have been reading my column all winter. While I have had an enjoyable winter in Florida, the trials and temptations that I have experienced have been numerous and have given me greater dependence upon the Lord to guide and direct.

Make the smart choice and install a carbon monoxide detector

Do you have carbon monoxide detectors in your house? If you do not, you are in violation of the law. Effective January 1, 2007, Illinois Public Act 094-0741 required carbon monoxide detectors in all buildings that contain sleeping units.

Testing your water expansion tank

Q. Our house was built approximately six years ago. On top of the water heater is a black something with a small tank, pipe that goes into the ceiling and a hose that leads into the floor drain. What is this for? It makes a loud siren-type noise that is getting louder. What can we do? Thanks.

Is a Roth IRA right for you?

I often get questions from my students at the University about retirement savings. Most of my students are under the age of 50, so the answers to their questions are a bit different for some retirement plans.

99 bottles of beer on the wall…

In a recent restaurant survey, Duke’s Alehouse and Kitchen in Crystal Lake was one of the top favorites, so my wife Judy and I invited friends Mike and Darby McGuigan to join us on a Sunday night to find out if the restaurant lived up to its reputation and high marks.

A behind-the-scenes star who makes the dancers shine

This week, I am putting the spotlight on one of the “stars” of the very popular TV show “Dancing With The Stars.” He is the heart and soul of all the great music used on the show, other than that provided by musical guests. He is Harold Wheeler, the musical director of the show that is now in its 16th season.

Lessons learned in Florida

When I left Huntley for my home in Florida last October, I made the decision not to teach my February classes but to have fun with all the people in our Christian R.V. Park going to Bible conferences, enjoying the sun and warm weather, relaxing by the pool, taking trips and socializing, which usually meant eating mostly health-destroyers such as sugar and processed items with little or no nutrition.

Tips on lawn care from a longtime friend, Part I

A very special childhood memory for me is when my mom would take me to the Huntley Bank. The bank was located on Main Street in the building just west of the Village Inn. She would set me up on the counter while our bank teller—her good friend, Marlene Manke—would process her bank deposit. Marlene was always very kind to me and probably found a candy treat for me to enjoy while I was there.

Westminster can’t hold a candle to Hetty Pegler’s Tump

Any time you hit the road in a rented car with a handful of people, there’s a good chance hands will curl into fists. After all, not everybody has the same idea of a “good time,” right?

Laughter By Paul – 4/25/13

A few years ago, Tom decided to visit a friend who was stationed in Germany.