Category: Columns

Local writers and stories

Toxic Work Environment Affects Well-Being

The Nurturing Well by: Jill Starbuck Did you know that approximately 30% of our lives are spent working? For some people, they may spend even more of their lives working. What’s even more startling is that an overwhelming majority of Americans hate their jobs. According to a survey conducted by Gallup, 70% of participants hate…

St. Rose School of Lima Celebrates First Year In New Home

In November 2013, the St. Joseph of Lima School students, staff, parents, and community made a big move. They said goodbye to a 100-year-old school building and entered their new home, which was the former Monroeville School. In comparison, the new home represents a castle, filled with new opportunities, a media center, a gymnasium, more…

Shop Local Businesses to Build Stronger Communities

The Nurturing Well by: Jill Starbuck Shopping enthusiasts love Thanksgiving because it means an adventurous shopping day with envious deals is around the corner. Each year Black Friday signifies the start of holiday shopping. For some, Black Friday is a dreadful occasion filled with long lines, impossible traffic, frustration, and a race to the best…

Ask Me Miss C

Dear Miss C: I know this isn’t the type of question you have answered in other columns, but I am at a loss. This year is a hard one in our household, but Christmas is very special to me. Usually, we celebrate Christmas morning together opening presents. I love watching my family open presents I…

Homelessness Affects Many Walks of Life

The Nurturing Well by: Jill Starbuck When we think of the holidays, we typically picture family gatherings full of laughter, warm homes, and lots of great food. We typically do not worry about how to keep warm, where our next meal will come from, and whether we will see our loved ones. As unthinkable as…

Ask Me Miss C

Dear Miss C: This may sound dramatic, but Facebook is ruining my family! My husband comes home from work and the first thing he does is boot up the laptop, then spends most of his time until dinner on Facebook. Dinner is constantly interrupted by the cellphone ‘ding’ of notifications and social media updates. I…

Unfathomable World Exists for Millions

The Nurturing Well by: Jill Starbuck Imagine a world where nobody is familiar. Your home doesn’t seem to suit you. Your friends and family change daily. You cannot fix your own food, take care of personal hygiene, balance a checkbook, or read a book. You frequently get lost and wake up in the middle of…

Guest Column from Representative Tony Burkley

House Bill 10 Ensures Local Government AccountabilityThere is one thing you can be certain of, and that is that this state depends on its local government system. As a state representative, I believe that one of my duties is ensuring that the concerns of our county and municipal sectors are included in the decisions we…

Ask Me Miss C

Dear Readers, I am Miss C, author of the new column ‘Ask Me, Miss C!’ I hope to hear from you, as I am now accepting your letters and questions to discuss. Just don’t ask me any math questions. You may submit your letters to the West Bend News with attention to me, Miss C…

Simple Gestures Provide Healing Power

The Nurturing Well by: Jill Starbuck Have you ever considered how powerful a hug, a handshake, a pat on the back, a wave, a smile, or other simple gesture can be? We especially realize the importance of such gestures when they are missing. Perhaps someone is in a hurry and forgets to look back and…

Dear Miss C… Grieving in Ohio

Dear Miss C… About 2 months ago, I lost my husband. The amazing part was the blessing of having my family and friends surround me with support just when I needed it most. They helped me make arrangements, take care of details, listen to me blubber, and were there to share the joy of remembering…

Be Cautious Around Sweet Attractions

The Nurturing Well by: Jill Starbuck Nearly everyone loves me. This may sound conceited, but it’s a fact. People become addicted to me—literally. When they see me, they just can’t get enough. I’m very popular. My secret is my versatility. I change my appearance all the time. Therefore, I’m always attracting new friends and convincing…

Fall Weather Conditions Great for Beginning Runners

The Nurturing Well by: Jill Starbuck Have you ever thought about taking up running? If so, now is the perfect time. Fall provides the best weather conditions for running. Cooler temperatures and lower humidity give runners a much needed break from the heat and humidity of summer. In hot weather, runners become sluggish and require…