IT’S TOUGH BEING A KID

There are many reasons that can make childhood a difficult time; death, poverty, divorce, illness and separation to name but a few.

Knowing your Mom or Dad are serving their country in the military is extremely tough. As mentioned in last week’s column, hundreds of Marines have been deployed to Afghanistan. We visited with some of their families two weeks ago, and though everyone pulls together and supports each other, it's troublesome for children. Dad or Mom will be gone a long time, anywhere from seven months to one year.

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“MESSAGE FROM THE HEART” is an innovative program, eagerly embraced by the Marine Corps. Children of Marines, whose home base is Camp Pendleton, will be invited to surprise parties in October at “Build-A-Bear.” Here they’ll choose their own bears, costumes to dress them in, and to their surprise, when they proceed to the stuffing machine, they’ll receive chips to put inside the bears. Each chip has a personal message from their Dad or Mom that can be played over and over again. We are so proud to be a part of this thoughtful, happy program that was started by Jack ‘n Angel Collins, parents of our grandson, Lcpl Jonathan Collins USMC. His dear memory is ever in the hearts of his family and friends.

Can you be a part of the program too? HOORAH! Each bear costs approximately twenty-five dollars. Presently we have enough funds to care for six-hundred children, but there are many, many more. If you, your family, friends or co-workers would like to sponsor a bear please send $25 to: Lcpl Jonathan Collins Foundation, c/o John Collins, 9724 Brandt Ave., Oak Lawn, IL. 60453

Tell us in whose honor the bear is being sponsored and we’ll send you, in the return mail, a gift card to present to them. It is beary wonderful!!!

CLOSER TO HOME

Matt Gulino was a gracious, caring man you would have been proud to know. A sudden, unexpected death at the age of 49 has had a profound effect on his young widow, Joanne, and their children; Nick 19, Sara, 16 ‘n Katie 15. A Benefit Party for the children’s educational needs, will be held 9/11 at BOURBON STREET, 3339 W. 115th St., 3-8 p.m. Great food, drinks, raffles and music will brighten your time. Please come out, on this day of national remembrance, and help a great American family. www.GulinoFamilyBenefit.com

Cookies ‘n Chaos, is sponsored by:
Kuenster Funeral Home, 5570 W. 95th Street, Oak Lawn, IL. 60453
Family owned and operated since 1917
"Where respect and reverence enfold our families and friends."