In May of each year we set aside a Sunday to remember mothers, and in June a Sunday for fathers. I am fortunate in having collected good memories of my parents from my earliest recall to their deaths in their…
Category: Local Voices
First Car Is a Source of Pride
One thing that was important to young people in my day and age was getting their first car. It appears this has become less important in today’s electronic age, but for me, getting my first car was memorable. I suspect…
History Depiction in Movies and TV
I hope the local movie theaters aren’t depending upon me to help their attendance numbers. I simply don’t find the vast majority of first run movie offerings of interest and attend infrequently. I occasionally borrow movies from the Urbana Regional…
Getting Involved: from Traffic to Dogs
Late last year I had two unusual experiences — at least unusual for me — that I would like to share. I try to be a cautious driver who avoids doing things that would earn a traffic citation. Any trip…
Retirement Comes in Many Flavors
December and January are popular months for retirements. I retired in 1993 at age 56 and have some thoughts to share on this important life event. I hope these thoughts will be helpful to both fellow retirees and people considering…
Year End Wrap Up Topics
This year of 2014 has impressed me as an atypical weather year. Summer was absent of the usual long stretch of scorching hot days. Fall has been somewhat wetter and cooler. Tree leaves were not as colorful as in past…
Volunteerism and Giving
In the Urbana area, I volunteer for a number of activities, primarily related to my church and local civic and community functions. Being retired, I have a considerable measure of freedom in deciding how to devote my time. Not everyone…
Loving the Locally Grown at Urbana’s Farmers’ Market
By Colleen Cusimano A recent Sunday morning found me browsing our local Urbana Library Farmers’ Market with my kids in tow. While many might think the market is closed for the season, Urbana’s market is held from April through mid-October. I…
Some Retailers More Controversial Than Others
My wife and I have lived in the Villages of Urbana for 10 years. The Villages shopping center was under construction when we moved in and residents were excited about the prospect of a food store being built nearby. But…
Local Volunteer Groups Need Help
Many residents in the Villages and Highlands probably don’t know from where emergency vehicles originate that respond to local calls for service. Most often, they come from the Urbana Fire and Rescue Department. The Department has been serving the Urbana…