St. Bernard Hospital's dental office focuses on children's oral health in underserved Englewood.
Excerpt from the Chicago Tribune, June 8, 2011
By Jessica Tobacman, Special to the Tribune
"Tomas Rivera feels fortunate. He found a dentist in the Englewood neighborhood that his 6-year-old son adores.” (Link no longer available.)
This blog began soon after U.S. Independence Day in 2010. The original intent was to create posts about energy independence. Gradually, the blog developed into a portfolio for published articles with a much broader focus on environmental, health and cultural issues. Now, this blog investigates the many ways to invest in and preserve the beautiful world around us.
Thursday, June 23, 2011
Orland Park man a spokesman for Weight Watchers
Excerpt from the SouthtownStar, from June 17, 2011,
updated June 19, 2011
By Jessica Tobacman
"Jim Schultz, of Orland Park, used to weigh 294 pounds.
Today, he’s at 185 — and is a national spokesman for Weight Watchers.
Schultz said shedding all those pounds — equivalent to a small person — wasn’t a big deal. He did it through the company’s online weight loss program." (Link no longer available.)
updated June 19, 2011
By Jessica Tobacman
"Jim Schultz, of Orland Park, used to weigh 294 pounds.
Today, he’s at 185 — and is a national spokesman for Weight Watchers.
Schultz said shedding all those pounds — equivalent to a small person — wasn’t a big deal. He did it through the company’s online weight loss program." (Link no longer available.)
Cancer survivor turns to running after diagnosis
Excerpt from the SouthtownStar, from June 18, 2011,
updated June 19, 2011
By Jessica Tobacman
"Even after having suffered a seizure and being diagnosed with a brain tumor, Meg Keating recently ran a 10K benefiting the Northwestern Brain Tumor Institute. She was diagnosed nearly four years ago, and since then she’s even participated in the Chicago Marathon." (Link no longer available.)
updated June 19, 2011
By Jessica Tobacman
"Even after having suffered a seizure and being diagnosed with a brain tumor, Meg Keating recently ran a 10K benefiting the Northwestern Brain Tumor Institute. She was diagnosed nearly four years ago, and since then she’s even participated in the Chicago Marathon." (Link no longer available.)
Residents Dump the Pump Thursday

National Dump the Pump Day has people leaving their car keys at home in favor of public transit.
Excerpt from Patch.com,
June 16, 2011
By Jessica Tobacman
"Burr Ridge resident Kristin Edmonds will be commuting by train today, as she does three days every week.
'With gas prices so high, I think people should take the train ...'”
(Link no longer available.)
Tinley Park woman warns others to prevent skin cancer
Excerpt from the SouthtownStar, from June 14, 2011,
updated June 15, 2011
By Jessica Tobacman
"After being diagnosed with melanoma skin cancer at age 21, Lindsay Walsh of Tinley Park is relieved to be rid of it more than two years later.
Her family does not have a history of melanomas, but Walsh is completely Irish, with fair skin and hair.
“I used tanning beds two or three times a week since I was 16,” she said. (Link no longer available.)
updated June 15, 2011
By Jessica Tobacman
"After being diagnosed with melanoma skin cancer at age 21, Lindsay Walsh of Tinley Park is relieved to be rid of it more than two years later.
Her family does not have a history of melanomas, but Walsh is completely Irish, with fair skin and hair.
“I used tanning beds two or three times a week since I was 16,” she said. (Link no longer available.)
Making Father's Day a Green Experience
Explore Burr Ridge events and stores with your dad on his day.
Opinion--Excerpt from Patch.com, June 10, 2011
By Jessica Tobacman
"Father’s Day is approaching next weekend. Here are some easy ways to make the holiday eco-friendly and enjoyable, in no particular order."
(Link no longer available.)
Opinion--Excerpt from Patch.com, June 10, 2011
By Jessica Tobacman
"Father’s Day is approaching next weekend. Here are some easy ways to make the holiday eco-friendly and enjoyable, in no particular order."
(Link no longer available.)
Pastor plans to fast to support Oak Forest Hospital
Excerpt from the SouthtownStar, from April 27, 2011, updated May 29, 2011
By Jessica Tobacman
"A week before the future of Oak Forest Hospital is to be decided by a state board, the pastor of a Robbins church plans to set up camp across the street and begin fasting to protest Cook County’s plan to convert the facility into a center for outpatient services." (Link no longer available.)
By Jessica Tobacman
"A week before the future of Oak Forest Hospital is to be decided by a state board, the pastor of a Robbins church plans to set up camp across the street and begin fasting to protest Cook County’s plan to convert the facility into a center for outpatient services." (Link no longer available.)
Boot camp owner: Make yourself a priority
Excerpt from the SouthtownStar, from June 1, 2011, updated June 2, 2011
By Jessica Tobacman
"Shelton Matsey practices what he preaches.
The co-owner of a fitness firm, he won a pushup contest with 96 pushups in 90 seconds during an April 30 fundraiser.
The approximately $1,700 raised by Matsey’s company, Fit Code Boot Camps, will go to the Wounded Warrior Fund, which helps injured soldiers who return from battle." (Link no longer available.)
By Jessica Tobacman
"Shelton Matsey practices what he preaches.
The co-owner of a fitness firm, he won a pushup contest with 96 pushups in 90 seconds during an April 30 fundraiser.
The approximately $1,700 raised by Matsey’s company, Fit Code Boot Camps, will go to the Wounded Warrior Fund, which helps injured soldiers who return from battle." (Link no longer available.)
Enjoying Green Activities in Burr Ridge While It's Warm
Local ways to enjoy the outdoors without adding to your carbon footprint.
Opinion--Excerpt from Patch.com, May 27, 2011
By Jessica Tobacman
"Burr Ridge is finally warming up. Unpredictable weather is giving way to more light and heat. Although New Year’s resolutions are long gone, why not make a spring resolution to get outside more? This might be a good time—or one of the only times in the near future—to bask in the warmth outdoors, or to enjoy it in more active ways. It’s a great chance to appreciate the outdoors." (Link no longer available.)
Opinion--Excerpt from Patch.com, May 27, 2011
By Jessica Tobacman
"Burr Ridge is finally warming up. Unpredictable weather is giving way to more light and heat. Although New Year’s resolutions are long gone, why not make a spring resolution to get outside more? This might be a good time—or one of the only times in the near future—to bask in the warmth outdoors, or to enjoy it in more active ways. It’s a great chance to appreciate the outdoors." (Link no longer available.)
Burr Ridge Chef Opens New Cooking School in Willowbrook
Chefs for a Day will open its doors next month in Willowbrook.
Excerpt from Patch.com, May 27, 2011
By Jessica Tobacman
"Many local residents know Chef Laura Valcour through her cooking classes at the Burr Ridge Park District and her involvement in the farmer’s market. June marks the beginning of a new business venture for Valcour who, along with best friend and business partner Ruby Melliza, will be opening a cooking school for children in neighboring Willowbrook.
“It’s a dream of mine,” Valcour says. “I just have a passion to continue to teach kids to cook." (Link no longer available.)
Excerpt from Patch.com, May 27, 2011
By Jessica Tobacman
"Many local residents know Chef Laura Valcour through her cooking classes at the Burr Ridge Park District and her involvement in the farmer’s market. June marks the beginning of a new business venture for Valcour who, along with best friend and business partner Ruby Melliza, will be opening a cooking school for children in neighboring Willowbrook.
“It’s a dream of mine,” Valcour says. “I just have a passion to continue to teach kids to cook." (Link no longer available.)
Burr Ridge Photographer's Architectural Abstract Series on Display in Riverside
The Lyons Township grad shares glimpses from around the world in a local exhibit.
Excerpt from Patch.com, May 25, 2011
By Jessica Tobacman
"A vibrant exhibit by Burr Ridge photographer Julie Youle-Lenoch will be on display in the lobby of the North Riverside Mall theatre, featuring photos of Mexico City and Old San Juan, Puerto Rico.
The Lyons Township graduate said the architectural abstract photo series is her favorite. The series was shot with a Hasselblad camera, a type used by photographer and environmentalist Ansel Adams." (Link no longer available.)
Excerpt from Patch.com, May 25, 2011
By Jessica Tobacman
"A vibrant exhibit by Burr Ridge photographer Julie Youle-Lenoch will be on display in the lobby of the North Riverside Mall theatre, featuring photos of Mexico City and Old San Juan, Puerto Rico.
The Lyons Township graduate said the architectural abstract photo series is her favorite. The series was shot with a Hasselblad camera, a type used by photographer and environmentalist Ansel Adams." (Link no longer available.)
Burr Ridge Takes to the Air to Combat Mosquitoes
A chemical is dropped by helicopter onto wetlands to kill larvae and prevent the growth of mosquitoes.
Excerpt from Patch.com, May 23, 2011
By Jessica Tobacman
"Burr Ridge conducted its annual use of a chemical designed to prevent mosquito larvae from growing in local wetlands, and thus, prevent the onslaught of adult mosquitoes. The chemical, dropped from a helicopter ..." (Link no longer available.)
Excerpt from Patch.com, May 23, 2011
By Jessica Tobacman
"Burr Ridge conducted its annual use of a chemical designed to prevent mosquito larvae from growing in local wetlands, and thus, prevent the onslaught of adult mosquitoes. The chemical, dropped from a helicopter ..." (Link no longer available.)
Implanted device can monitor heart trouble
Excerpt from the SouthtownStar, from May 16, 2011, updated May 17, 2011
By Jessica Tobacman
"She’s survived one heart attack and suffers from diabetes, so Patricia Mahoney has concerns about her future health.
A family history of health problems, including her mother who had a stroke that led to paralysis, adds to the Orland Park woman’s concern.
Fortunately, she now may have a better chance of surviving another heart attack ..." (Link no longer available.)
By Jessica Tobacman
"She’s survived one heart attack and suffers from diabetes, so Patricia Mahoney has concerns about her future health.
A family history of health problems, including her mother who had a stroke that led to paralysis, adds to the Orland Park woman’s concern.
Fortunately, she now may have a better chance of surviving another heart attack ..." (Link no longer available.)
Natural, Healthy Foods in the Neighborhood

Here are some places to find and learn about lean cooking.
Opinion--Excerpt from Patch.com, May 14, 2011
By Jessica Tobacman
"The weather is erratically becoming warmer and sunnier. This creates prime opportunities for grilling outdoors, and might create the motivation to go the extra mile, ironically, to buy locally." (Link no longer available.)
Burr Rige Continues Protecting Trees From Emerald Ash Borer
Read on for what's happening locally in the fight against EAB.
Excerpt from Patch.com, May 7, 2011
By Jessica Tobacman
"The Emerald Ash Borer is a problem in Burr Ridge.
The EAB beetle is infesting ash trees in the area, essentially starving them. When enough of these one-half-inch long insects are living within an ash tree, they destroy the system that moves nutrients throughout the tree. When enough of them are living within a tree, the bark pulls away from the wood. There may be thousands of bores in one tree.
“It’s like a traffic jam,” said Gary Gatlin, Burr Ridge Village arborist." (Link no longer available.)
Excerpt from Patch.com, May 7, 2011
By Jessica Tobacman
"The Emerald Ash Borer is a problem in Burr Ridge.
The EAB beetle is infesting ash trees in the area, essentially starving them. When enough of these one-half-inch long insects are living within an ash tree, they destroy the system that moves nutrients throughout the tree. When enough of them are living within a tree, the bark pulls away from the wood. There may be thousands of bores in one tree.
“It’s like a traffic jam,” said Gary Gatlin, Burr Ridge Village arborist." (Link no longer available.)
Local Responses to Osama bin Laden's Demise
Burr Ridge residents react to killing of al Qaeda leader.
Excerpt from Patch.com, May 3, 2011
By Jessica Tobacman
"President Barack Obama revealed late Sunday night that Osama bin Laden was captured and killed by U.S. armed forces in Pakistan.
Reactions from Burr Ridge residents were largely positive." (Link no longer available.)
Excerpt from Patch.com, May 3, 2011
By Jessica Tobacman
"President Barack Obama revealed late Sunday night that Osama bin Laden was captured and killed by U.S. armed forces in Pakistan.
Reactions from Burr Ridge residents were largely positive." (Link no longer available.)
Dozens attend raucous hearing about Oak Forest Hospital
Excerpt from the SouthtownStar, from April 18, 2011,
updated May 20, 2011
By Jessica Tobacman
"Charges of class bias erupted Monday at a raucous public hearing on the planned closure of Oak Forest Hospital as Cook County’s strategic health plan continued to hit snags." (Link no longer available.)
updated May 20, 2011
By Jessica Tobacman
"Charges of class bias erupted Monday at a raucous public hearing on the planned closure of Oak Forest Hospital as Cook County’s strategic health plan continued to hit snags." (Link no longer available.)
Gower, Village Celebrate Arbor Day

As Part of Arbor Day celebrations, three new shrubs were planted at Gower Middle School Friday.
Excerpt from Patch.com, May 2, 2011
By Jessica Tobacman
"On Friday the Village of Burr Ridge celebrated Arbor Day for the fifteenth year in a row with shrub plantings at Gower Middle School." (Link no longer available.)
On Mom's Day, Celebrate All Mothers — Including the Earth

Do you know the history of Mother's Day? Read on to learn which ancient cultures celebrated mothers and for some ways to honor the mother figures in your life.
Opinion--Excerpt from Patch.com,
May 1, 2011
By Jessica Tobacman
"Mother’s Day is coming up on May 8 and it’s a great chance to celebrate the mother figures in your life, including, you guessed it, Mother Earth.
Here’s some history on the holiday." (Link no longer available.)
Celebrate Earth Day by Remembering its History, Participating in Local Events
This Earth Day, make the holiday your own through any number of activities.
Excerpt from Patch.com, April 16, 2011
By Jessica Tobacman
"With Earth Day coming up April 22, this is a prime chance to celebrate the earth and to care for it.
Earth Day partly grew out of the 1962 publication of Rachel Carson’s Silent Spring." (Link no longer available.)
Excerpt from Patch.com, April 16, 2011
By Jessica Tobacman
"With Earth Day coming up April 22, this is a prime chance to celebrate the earth and to care for it.
Earth Day partly grew out of the 1962 publication of Rachel Carson’s Silent Spring." (Link no longer available.)
Salon Staff Become "Water Warriors" in Fight for Clean Water

Stylists will volunteer their time for Cut-a-Thon from noon to 8 p.m. Monday for cash donations to clean water projects.
Excerpt from Patch.com, April 11, 2011
By Jessica Tobacman
"Besides beauty, one thing a day spa and salon knows is water. It uses a lot of it every day in the service of its clients. The staff of Salon Efthimia is participating in Earth Month 2011 by becoming "water warriors" and asking their clients and the general public to join them." (Link no longer available.)
A Fishy Beginning to April

Learn about the reasons to enjoy, or avoid, the fish below us.
Opinion--Excerpt from Patch.com, April 2, 2011
By Jessica Tobacman
"Friday was the first day of April, which is often called April Fools’ Day and is known for practical jokes. What is not as well-known in the United States is that it’s called Poisson d’Avril in French, meaning “April Fish.” French children sometimes celebrate by taping pictures of fish onto their classmates’ backs, and yelling 'Poisson d’Avril' when this trick is discovered." (Link no longer available.)
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