In many parks, children spend summer days laughing and playing with friends. However, for some kids who struggle with verbal expression, engaging in these simple joys can be difficult. Oak Island Park in Wausau has introduced a new resource designed to support children who face such communication barriers, making playtime more inclusive and enjoyable.
The newly installed communication board is intended to assist children who may not easily express their thoughts or feelings through speech. It provides visual symbols that allow kids to convey what they want to do or how they are feeling. For families like that of Makenna Simkowski, this innovation brings a meaningful opportunity for connection. Her mother, Katrina, explained how the board could help her daughter interact more confidently with other children during play.
Funded in part by the Channing’s Joy Foundation and approved by the Marathon County Parks and Rec Department, the project faced only minor delays due to production errors, which were quickly resolved. The department's director, Jamie Polley, expressed openness to expanding the initiative if it proves effective across the community. This step reflects a growing awareness of the diverse ways people communicate and how public spaces can evolve to meet different needs.
As communities become more aware of varying abilities, efforts like these show how small changes can lead to big improvements in quality of life. Encouraging understanding beyond spoken language promotes inclusivity and empathy. When parks and recreational areas embrace accessibility, they become places where every child can feel seen, heard, and valued—regardless of how they choose to express themselves.
The Pennsylvania Treasury Department has issued its second round of Money Match payments, delivering over 39,000 checks totaling $9.2 million to residents who were unaware they were owed money. This initiative, backed by state legislation and designed to streamline the return of forgotten assets, automatically identifies eligible individuals and sends them direct payments without requiring any action on their part.
Unclaimed property can take many forms, from inactive bank accounts and uncollected dividends to expired insurance benefits and abandoned safety deposit items. Under current regulations, companies are required to report such dormant assets after a period of inactivity, typically three years. The Treasury then takes responsibility for locating the rightful owners and returning the funds. With more than 10% of the state’s population likely to have unclaimed assets, the program offers a valuable service by reconnecting families with lost financial resources.
This latest disbursement follows an initial successful round earlier this year and marks a step toward the department’s goal of returning $30 million by 2025. Scheduled to continue quarterly, the program is expected to expand access to rightful claimants while reducing bureaucratic hurdles. Officials emphasize that recipients should treat these checks as legitimate and encourage prompt deposit or cashing to ensure smooth processing.
Returning forgotten funds to citizens not only strengthens individual financial well-being but also reinforces trust between government and the public. By simplifying the process of reclaiming lost assets, Pennsylvania sets a precedent for transparency and efficiency. Every dollar returned is a tangible benefit to families, helping them meet daily needs and build a more secure future. As the program progresses, it serves as a reminder that proactive governance can make a real difference in people's lives.
In a vibrant display of community spirit and charitable giving, the Keene Trace Golf Club in Jessamine County hosted PGA Tour icon John Daly—famously known as the “Wild Thing”—for a special golf tournament aimed at raising funds for local causes. The event, held in the heart of Kentucky, centered around supporting organizations like Justin’s Place, which provides equine-assisted therapy to children with disabilities. Spearheaded by Travis McLaughlin of Good Boy Vodka, the initiative reflected a deep personal connection to the late Justin King, after whom the organization is named. With a focus on keeping contributions local, the tournament brought together sponsors, athletes, and community members to celebrate service, nature, and the joy of giving back.
A Star-Studded Tournament with a Heartfelt Mission
On a sun-drenched day at Keene Trace Golf Club in Central Kentucky, golf enthusiasts gathered for the inaugural John Daly Charity Golf Classic. The event, hosted by the two-time major champion himself, was more than just a sporting occasion—it was a heartfelt tribute to community values and philanthropy. Among the beneficiaries was Justin’s Place, a nonprofit offering therapeutic horseback riding programs for children facing physical and developmental challenges. The organization holds particular significance for Travis McLaughlin, whose company, Good Boy Vodka, served as the event's sponsor. Remembering his childhood friend Justin King, who was passionate about animals and helping others, McLaughlin expressed pride in channeling those ideals into a meaningful cause. Allie Barnett, executive director of Justin’s Place, emphasized how the event mirrored their mission of finding healing through nature and animal interaction. Held during the summer heat, the tournament not only raised vital funds but also reinforced the importance of community engagement and support.
Reflections on Community, Legacy, and Giving Back
As a journalist covering this event, what stood out most wasn’t just the presence of a golf legend, but the genuine sense of unity and purpose that permeated the atmosphere. This wasn't a typical celebrity charity appearance—it was a deeply personal endeavor rooted in friendship, memory, and a shared vision for a better community. McLaughlin’s words about balancing work and life while making a difference resonated strongly. Events like these remind us that charity doesn’t always have to be grand or far-reaching; sometimes, the greatest impact comes from staying local, honoring loved ones, and investing in the well-being of our own neighborhoods. In a world often driven by self-interest, seeing a community come together under the banner of compassion and remembrance is both refreshing and inspiring.