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player ready...The year 2015 is swiftly becoming a memory, and many of us, once more, may set out to “turn a new leaf.” That “leaf” doesn’t reference that which grows on a tree – it pertains to a leaf of a book, as we aim to create a new chapter in our “book of life.” This tradition of making New Year’s resolutions dates back to the ancient Babylonians.
Nowadays the goal of improving oneself is most popular in the Western Hemisphere. But, how about improving one’s family, the local community, even the world at large? I asked several area neighbors and community leaders their goals and wishes for the New Year, and here is what they had to say:
North Barrington’s Chrissie Newton Mena, former Barrington Junior Women’s Club president and Facebook’s “Living60010” co-founder, was recently named one of 2015’s “Women of Distinction” by Lake County Magazine. Her thoughts: “We had a tough 2015 losing my father, brother-in-law and family dog. This year I am praying for good health for all my friends and loved ones and a safe transition for my children into new school adventures! Medical school for Kylie and college for the twins. I hope Rey and I will do OK as empty nesters for the first time in 21 years……”
Lakeview resident William Iacullo, freshman business major at Michigan State: “For 2016 I hope to continue to work hard in school to get into the business college at Michigan State, and I hope to find my passion and what I want to do in life. I know 2016 will be a great year, and I can’t wait to continue to learn and grow as I go through my amazing college experience.”
Lakeview neighbor Mary Beaubien is passionate about expanding the opportunity of Barrington Children’s Choir (BCC), a not-for-profit children’s choir. Her youngest Ella has been musically enriched by the experience. Children from all over the Northwest Suburbs participate in BCC. Lynn Minton, Administrative Director of Barrington Children’s Choir, is filled with hopes for an even better choir this year. She invites young singers to “imagine joining as one voice to inspire the hopes and dreams of all those you meet through song.” Auditions for their spring term will be held Jan. 5. More info at www.barringtonchildrenschoir.org.
Barrington resident Kate Himes, a sophomore double major in fashion business and public relations at Columbia College Chicago, had many dreams to share: “My hopes and dreams for 2016 are to solidify some of my long term hopes and dreams! I find that I learn more about myself as each day passes, and I’m excited for the upcoming year to be the biggest learning experience yet.”
Dr. Robert Albrecht of Hawthorn Woods has this to say for the New Year: “I hope for peace in the world…and elimination of fear in people’s hearts. And, as Americans, being grateful for all of the blessings that we have…given to us by God. Also, the idea of accentuating the positive in everyday life situations.”
Blessings to all for a happy New Year! [email protected]
Kimberly Albrecht is a freelance columnist for Pioneer Press