I hope you had a great Thanksgiving.
Mine was so food and family packed, I forgot to do a column. I believe that is the second time I have forgotten to do one on Thanksgiving…must be that Thursday holiday that confuses me.
The new banners and Christmas lights downtown are a welcome improvement over the decorations of a few years ago. Now, a little snow would give a nice holiday look to the slowly growing downtown area.
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Sometimes we take things for granted. I am guilty of that as well as almost everyone else.   
Hicks Hall at the Methodist Church is a good example. Pancake breakfasts and chili suppers aren’t the only events there. I am in Vince Carney Community Theater and we have been rehearsing for our winter show at Hick’s and the amount of activity there is amazing. Kishwaukee College has classes there, Girl Scouts and Boy Scouts, self-help groups and a host of other activities take place in the hall.
It’s truly an asset, thank you Methodist Church leaders for opening the hall to so many groups.

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I am one of 15 cast members in the upcoming VCCT show “In-laws, Outlaws and Other People (That Should Be Shot).” Despite the title, it is a comedy.
But we have a problem. The show is being performed at The Flight Deck on Dec. 19, 20, 21 and 22. You should see details in print at some point.
Since there is no stage in the hangar, we are building one. A complete stage — 32 feet wide, 16 feet deep, with back drops and walls. And we have one day to do it.
This will be a monumental task.
If you have any time on Sunday, Dec. 15, come to the Flight Deck after 12 p.m. and help build a set. I can’t lift, so I am a holder. We need holders and lifters. If you have an hour or two or more, please help.
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Christmas is often described as the happiest time of the year.
Yet, for many people, it is one of the darkest times of the year. Family illnesses, troubles, or deaths, job uncertainties, money problems, and a host of other issues can crop up in people who look happy.
Be extra aware of those around you and of yourself. If you feel troubled or overwhelmed, reach out. Talk to a friend, a minister, your doctor, or call the National Suicide Prevention Hotline at 1-800-273-8255.
You don’t have to be alone.

Terry Dickow is a retired elementary school teacher with lots of opinions, some you will like, some you won’t. He can be contacted at terrydickow@gmail.com.