INSIDE

SPORTS The Bugle looks back at the year in sports

www.buglenewspapers.com

PAGE 11

NEWS Businesses participate in Holly Days

PAGE 18

Our Community, Our News

JANUARY 1, 2014

Vol. 6 No. 5

2

THE BUGLE JANUARY 1, 2014

the impact of local news stories in 2013 resonated both here at home and throughout the state. torrential april rains set in motion a disaster relief effort that linked more than 30 counties throughout illinois. legislative battles in the state’s house of Representatives put one local politician at the center of the same-sex marriage debate.

an issue that has typically been viewed as a chicago problem, made clear in 2013 that drugs can affect any person in any neighborhood. we also bid farewell to several local leaders, and welcomed others in their place. yes, 2013 was a big year for news. here is the downers grove, westmont and woodridge year in review.

THE BUGLE JANUARY 1, 2014

FEBRUARY

downers grove

SANDACK SUPPORTS marriage eQualitY

State Rep. Ron Sandack became the first Illinois House Republican to come out in support of marriage-equality In February, State Rep. Ron Sandack, R-Downers Grove, became the first Illinois House Republican to come out in support of marriage-equality. On Nov. 20 Gov. Pat Quinn signed Senate Bill 10, making Illinois the 16th state to allow same-sex marriage. In between these two dates, Sandack received criticism from some of his constituents. The most striking event occurred on May 4, when activists both for and against gay marriage demonstrated outside of Sandack’s Downers Grove office. “To be completely fourth right with you all, I am going to vote for the bill,” Sandack said to a group of demonstrators opposed to same-sex marriage. The Illinois Family Institute, a Carol Stream-based anti-gay Christian group, arranged to

“i didn’t go to spRingfield to play defense, and take votes that weRe safe and easy. i went down theRe with a conscience; i went down theRe with a puRpose and diRective. if it ends up being not what [my constituents] want, i lose with my head peRfectly held high and my conscience cleaRed.” - REP. RON SANDACK, R-DOWNERS GROVE

hold their “Defend Marriage” rally to assert their opposition to legislation that would legally permit same-sex marriage. Leading a counter rally on the same day were LGBT civil rights groups the Civil Rights Agenda and the Gay Liberation Network.

BUGLe fILe PhoToS

State Rep. Ron Sandack, R-Downers Grove, tells opponents of same-sex marriage ‘I am going to vote for the bill’ during a May 4 rally in front of his Downers Grove office. Supporters and opponents of same-sex marriage clash during a May 4 rally.

After speaking to the IFI, Sandack walked around police barricades to repeat his message of marriage equality to CRA and GLN demonstrators. Afterward, he said he feels his

constituents want marriage equality. “I didn’t go to Springfield to play defense,and take votes that were safe and easy,” Sandack said.“I went down there with a

conscience; I went down there with a purpose and directive. If it ends up being not what [my constituents] want, I lose with my head perfectly held high and my conscience cleared.”

westmont

RESIDENTS MOURN ‘MAYOR BILL,’ WELCOME MAYOR RON NOVEMBER Rahn’s neighbor and good friend Ron Gunter ran unopposed in the April 9 mayoral election Westmont mourns ‘Mayor Bill,’ welcomes Mayor Ron Less than a year after former Mayor Bill Rahn retired from office, Westmont’s longest serving mayor passed away from complications that arose after falling at his home in November. Affectionately known as“Mayor

Bill,” Rahn, 71, was remembered by friends and colleagues as a good friend and a true public servant. “Bill was family, he was our brother and just such a wonderful, wonderful kind man,” trustee Sue Senicka said while holding back tears. “I’m so proud to call him

my friend and to call his family my family.” Rahn was a life-long resident of Westmont. He served in village government for more than 30 years, starting out as a Westmont trustee in 1983. He was in that position for 17 years before he was elected mayor in 1999. Rahn’s neighbor and good friend Ron Gunter ran unopposed in the April 9 mayoral election. “Bill truly was someone who

gave back to this community a tremendous amount of his time and effort,” Gunter said. “We lost a leader, I lost a friend and the community lost a very good resident.” Gunter became the director of the Westmont Park District in 1979, a position he still holds, and has been involved in everything from the Lions Club to the Knights of Columbus. As Westmont’s newest mayor,

Gunter carried that spirit of community service to the next level. “I wanted something that would allow me to continue to give back to the community after I retire [from the Park District],” Gunter said. “I could think of no better way to serve in that capacity. With everything I’ve done in the past and everybody I know, mayor was a natural kind of progression.”

3

4

THE BUGLE JANUARY 1, 2014

APRIL

BUGLe fILe PhoToS

The 1900 block of Curtis Street in Downers Grove experienced substantial flooding during April’s torrential. April’s storms caused the east branch of the DuPage River to over flow onto Naperville Road west of the DuPage River Park.

woodridge

MAY

WILLIAM MURPHY RETIRES, CUNNINGHAM NAMED NEW WOODRIDGE MAYOR

Murphy endorsed his successor, saying Cunningham has the “qualities, traits, skills, intelligence, and common sense” necessary to serve as mayor

ApRiL FLooding

April rains cause state of emergency in Chicagoland area Severe rainstorms in mid April inundated much of the Chicago area, causing power outages, flooding homes and forcing road closures. Gov. Pat Quinn declared 38 counties in Illinois state disaster areas, including DuPage and Will counties. During a 24-hour period, 6.7 inches of rain fell in Downers Grove.The torrential downpour oversaturated the ground and caused significant runoff, which quickly exceeded the stormwater system’s capacity.

The storm and flood affected approximately 1,500 homes and businesses just in Downers Grove. “This [event] resulted in significant hardship for many of our residents,” said Doug

Kozlowski, Downers Grove communications director. DuPage County was one of the initial 11 Illinois counties included in President Obama’s disaster declaration, which made federal funds available to assist homeowners and municipalities severely affected by the floods. Ultimately, over threedozen counties in Illinois were added to the disaster declaration and made eligible for FEMA’s public assistance program.As of Aug. 9, more than $151 million in federal disaster aid was distributed in Illinois.

William Murphy to defeat Greg Abbott, served eight years Mike Krucek and as a trustee on the Ferenc Vandor during Woodridge Village the April 9 election. Board before he “This is honestly the was elected mayor greatest honor and in 1981. In May, he privilege to earn the officially stepped trust of the residents,” down from the Cunningham said. “I position. am excited, honored Woodridge Mayor “In my time Gina Cunningham and humbled all at as mayor and on the same time.” the village board, Woodridge Murphy endorsed his has grown from a bedroom successor, saying Cunningham community to a vibrant regional has the “qualities, traits, skills, player,” Murphy said during his intelligence, and common March 14 State of the Village sense” necessary to serve as address.“I have been witness to mayor. the tremendous achievements “Gina’s proven commitment of all facets of our community.” to the community has been Murphy moved to Woodridge demonstrated not only with in 1968, just nine years after dedicated service in government the community was officially but also in the community,” he incorporated as a village. said in a letter to the residents Village Board trustee Gina of Woodridge. Cunningham replaced Murphy Cunningham is the market as Woodridge’s first new president for Bridgeview mayor in over three decades. Bank, current president of the Cunningham, a 45-year resident Woodridge Rotary and past of Woodridge, received over 40 president of the Woodridge percent of the vote on her way Chamber of Commerce.

JANUARY

THE BUGLE JANUARY 1, 2014

downers grove

stoRmWAteR

UTILITY

Stormwater utility is a monthly fee based on the total amount of impervious area on all parcels throughout the village Downers Grove was one of the first Chicago suburbs in the area to institute a stormwater utility fee in 2013, and neighboring Westmont also set in motion its own plans for a stormwater fee last year. Downers Grove’s stormwater utility, which went into effect in January 2013, is a monthly fee based on the total amount of impervious area on all parcels throughout the village. These areas include parking lots, roofs, driveways or decks; basically any surface that does not absorb water. The fee is based on Equivalent Runoff Units,which are equal to 3,300 square feet of impervious area, and that equates to a monthly fee between $6.30 and $12.60 for all single-family residential parcels. The fee was not without critics, however. The issue has been an ongoing source of

tension between Downers Grove nonprofits and village government since it went into effect. Church leaders have argued that the fee unfairly challenges the tax-exempt status of nonprofits, poses an insurmountable financial obligation and sets a“dangerous precedent” for future taxes that may be levied against faithbased organizations. “You’re trying to tax religion,” said the Rev. Bill Cullen, of St. Mary of Gostyn Parish. “What’s more disconcerting is that this tax is on the backs of the poorest people in this village.” In December the village voted to increase the fee by 6.4 percent in 2014, which will most certainly keep this issue alive in Village Council meetings throughout the new year. Westmont’s proposed utility fee is similar to Downers

Grove’s and could be instituted as early as June 2014. Westmont’s Community Stormwater Management Committee researched the topic and presented its recommendations to remedy flooding issues within the village that were brought to light during April’s torrential rains. “In a bizarre way, I’m happy for the 100-year storm,” said Westmont resident Jim Gangnard, who felt the floods helped highlight issues with the village’s stormwater infrastructure. “I’m extremely encouraged by what this study has said. I did not expect this.” Westmont Finance Director Spencer Parker said the stormwater utility fee would allow the village to fairly assess how much a resident would pay, include incentives to lower a resident’s monthly fee, and provide an ongoing revenue stream for future stormwater projects and continued maintenance to the system.

NOVEMEBER viLLAge Finds WAY to cope WitH Loss oF Home-RULe

westmont

2012’s home-ruling set the stage for number of budgetary problems in 2013, including the repeal of 2.5 cent-per gallon gas tax, a 0.5 % sales tax Westmont residents voted A 1.5 percent tax on to rescind the village’s home- establishments that prepare rule status in November of and serve food is expected 2012 and that set the stage to bring in $750,000 in for a number of budgetary additional revenue. problems The board in 2013, also made i n cl u d i n g several cuts Breaking down the repeal to the general the numBers of a 2.5 fund.The most mchs 5-yeaR deficit cent-per significant pRediction gallon gas savings will tax, a 0.5 come from percent maintaining searl estimated the loss of the sales tax staff vacancies gas and sales taxes would and the in a number of amount to a nearly $2.4 million v i l l a ge ’s departments. reduction in annual revenues. M u l t i This attrition Fa m i l y will save Licensing the village a 1.5 percent tax on Program. $344,669. establishments that prepare and serve food is expected to S e a r l B y bring in $750,000 in additional estimated extending revenue. the loss the life of the gas expectancy and sales of police, fire taxes would amount to a and public works vehicles, nearly $2.4 million reduction the village also expects to in annual revenues. save $122,633 in the 2013The loss of home-rule 14 budget. revenues meant that Village Furthermore, the Board trustees had to get village will reduce police creative in the 2013 budget department hours from 9 process. a.m. to 8 p.m. to 9 a.m. to 5 A tax on places of eating p.m. and cut Committee of will have the most significant the Whole meetings form the impact in helping to swing Village Board schedule in the Westmont’s bottom line back upcoming year. These two into the positive. moves will save $76,470.

$2.4 million

$750,000

5

6

THE BUGLE JANUARY 1, 2014

NOVEMEBER

downers grove

countY news

HEROIN EPIDEMIC BUGLe fILe PhoToS

From left to right: Joan Olson, executive director of the Robert Crown Center; Robert Berlin, DuPage County state’s attorney; and Richard Jorgenson, DuPage County coroner, sat on a panel during a Nov. 18 discussion addressing DuPage County’s heroin problem.

DuPage County faces suburban heroin epidemic DuPage County faces suburban heroin epidemicThe spread of heroin from Chicago to its surrounding suburbs was one of the most significant community health issues in DuPage County in 2013. In 2012, the county saw 38 heroin overdoses, ranging from people age 19 to 56. Through September 2013, DuPage County had already seen 42 heroin related deaths and was on pace to shatter last year’s figures. “The heroin problem has moved from the city out to the suburbs and is a huge problem among our teens in DuPage County, especially the western suburbs,” State Rep. Patti Bellock said during a Nov. 18 heroin forum. In addition to the increased number of deaths in 2013, DuPage County Coroner Robert Jorgenson said the victims are getting younger. A 15-year old and

QUICK FACTS ABOUT DUPAGE COUNTY HEROIN EPIDEMIC in 2012, the county saw 38 heRoin oveRdoses, Ranging fRom people age 19 to 56. thRough septembeR 2013, dupage county had alReady seen 42 heRoin Related deaths and was on pace to shatteR last yeaR’s figuRes. 16-year-old were among four teenaged victims who have died of heroin overdoses this year. Additionally, the number of overdose victims usually decreases as they get older because, according to Jorgenson “they’re either in jail, they’re dead or in recovery.” “Those are your choices, because you don’t live a long time in this lifestyle,” he said. DuPage County State’s Attorney Robert Berlin admitted the uphill battle law enforcement will continue to face, but said law enforcement has

several new tools to help save lives and tackle the heroin problem at it source, including an overdose immunity law and the new Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations Act. Despite all these efforts, the spread of heroin into DuPage County has continued to increase. November’s forum was part of an ongoing effort to educate the community and begin working towards a solution to the suburban heroin problem. It will continue to make headlines in 2014.

MAY

VILLAGE COUNCIL LOSES 2 LONG-TIME COMMISSIONERS Marilyn Schnell, William Waldack had served combined total of 33 years on council “the last 25 Marilyn Schnell and yeaRs has had William Waldack had served its ups and a combined total of 33 years downs, but on the Downers Grove i would not change Village Council prior to the oppoRtunity that their May 7 departure from you the Residents office. Schnell lost her most recent have given me. i love run for village commissioner, this town and have while Waldack decided in spent countless houRs November not to seek re- tRying to make it betteR than when i election. Schnell was first appointed fiRst took office.” - MARILYN SCHNELL to the Downers Grove Village Council in 1988, and she had been re-elected six consecutive times until her and has lived in Downers loss in the April 9 election. Grove since 1985. “The last 25 years has “I truly mean that it’s been had its ups an honor serving and downs, the residents of but I would the village of not change the Downers Grove,” opportunity that Waldack said. “I you the residents tried to be fair, have given me,” consistent and Schnell said avoid expediency, during the May which is what I 6 Village Council think all people meeting. “I love should want and this town and expect from their have spent Marilyn Schnell leadership.” countless hours Waldack’s trying to make activity in the it better than community also when I first took extends beyond office.” his service on the Schnell and Village Council. her husband He has served as Phillip moved to vice president Downers Grove of Senior 33 years ago, and Home Sharing, they proceeded chair of the to raise two William Waldack DuPage County c h i l d r e n . Inter-Agency In addition Paratransit to village Coordinating government, Schnell has Council and as vice been active in a number of president for the Chicago community organizations, Affiliate for the Foundation including Helping Girls Fighting Blindness. Navigate Adolescence, the Bill Barnett, who held on Character Counts Coalition, to his seat, and newcomers District 58 Strategic David Olsen and Greg Hosé, Planning Committee and were each sworn in as the Education Foundation of commissioners in 2013. Downers Grove District 58. Waldack began his service as commissioner in 2005

ForuM Post your thoughts! You’re invited to use the Forum page of The Bugle to express your opinions about matters that affect our community. E-mail your letter to our newsroom at sweditor@buglenewspapers.com. For more information, call (815) 436-2431. Letters to the editor must include the writer’s name, address and daytime phone number for verification purposes. Please try to limit your comments to 500 words or less. The editors

reserve the right to publish, condense, revise or reject any submissions.

Send us your news It’s easy! Just follow the 5 W’s: What is happening: Describe the event or the purpose of the news release. Who: The subject of the event. Also, include a name and phone number or e-mail address that can be published so readers can call for more information. When: Give date and time. Why, or for what purpose: Explain the nature of the event. Where is it happening: Give the exact street address. E-mail community news releases to sweditor@buglenewspapers.com The Bugle reserves the right to subsequent publication of all submissions, in full or in part, through the newspaper’s archives or any other electronic library.

Send us your photos Did your club host a bake sale? Did your church group volunteer to paint a senior’s home? If you have photos from your group’s fundraisers or events we would be glad to publish them. Please submit them to sweditor@buglenewspapers.com. Be sure to include information about the event, such as when, why and where it occurred. Opinions printed on this page, whether in Letters to the Editor or in columns or cartoons, are the opinions of the writer and not necessarily of this newspaper, its publishers, editor or employees. Only editorials reflect the views of the newspaper.

General Manager V.P. Advertising and Marketing Michael James mjames@voyagermediaonline.com Managing Editor Nick Reiher nreiher@buglenewspapers.com Assistant Managing Editor Jonathan Samples jsamples@buglenewspapers.com Reporters Jonathan Samples Alex Hernandez Laura Katauskas Sue Baker Sports Editor Scott Taylor staylor@buglenewspapers.com Advertising Manager Pat Ryan pryan@enterprisepublications.com

facebook.com/thebuglenewspapers twitter.com/buglenewspapers instagram.com/buglenewspapers

Production Director Andrew Samaan andrew@buglenewspapers.com Enterprise Newspapers, Inc. 23856 Andrew Road #104 Plainfield, IL 60585 (815) 436-2431 • Fax (815) 436-2592 Mon. - Fri. 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Editorial Deadlines Calendar & News: 3 p.m. Monday, three weeks before date of publication sweditor@buglenewspapers.com www.buglenewspapers.com Ad Deadlines Space and Copy deadlines for Display and Classified Ads is 12 p.m. Friday before date of insertion. classifieds@buglenewspapers.com Legals, Obituaries and Happy Ads are due at 12 p.m. Friday. announcements@buglenewspapers.com

THE BUGLE JANUARY 1, 2014

illustrated opinions

7

8

THE BUGLE JANUARY 1, 2014

SEPTEMBER

woodridge

gradY Becomes first female police chief In what has typically been viewed as a maledominated profession, Grady recognized the significance of her appointment for female law enforcement personnel everywhere Since it was incorporated as a village in 1959, Woodridge has never had a woman at the head of its police department. That changed Sept. 26 when the Woodridge Village Board unanimously approved the appointment of Gina Grady to become the village’s first female chief of police. “Today is another step in her career, where she has demonstrated her leadership capacity, her loyalty and dedication to the police department,” Woodridge Village Administrator Kathleen Rush said when Grady was sworn in. “She will be a great

asset to the community, and we welcome her as the chief of police.” When Grady spoke, she made it clear that the appointment was not just about her. In what has typically been viewed as a maledominated profession, Grady recognized the significance of her appointment for female law enforcement personnel everywhere. “My daughters know that there are not many females in this position,” Grady said. “They probably have the only mom in school who’s a police officer, and I can’t tell you how

“i Just wanted to be a good Role model to not only my kids but the otheR kids in the community that i get an oppoRtunity to inteRact with. they can see that a female can succeed no matteR what pRofession it is they go in to.” - WOODRIDGE POLICE CHIEF GINA GRADY

many days that they are proud to introduce me to somebody or have me accompany them to school.” The Bureau of Justice Statistics placed the percentage of female officers in local police departments at 12 percent in 2007. Of the 800,000 full-time law enforcement officers in the country, women represent

BUGLe fILe PhoToS

Family, friends and village officials applaud Gina Grady, who was sworn in Sept. 26 as Woodridge’s first female police chief.

approximately 100,000 of those positions. The percentage of women at the head of the nearly 18,00 law enforcement agencies in the United States is much lower, slightly more than 1 percent. “I just wanted to be a good role model to not only my kids but the other kids in the community that I get an opportunity to interact with,” Grady said. “They can see that a female can succeed no

matter what profession it is they go in to.” Grady has been serving as acting police chief since her predecessor Ken Boehm retired from the position in August. Before Thursday’s appointment, Grady served as the deputy chief of the Woodridge Police Department since 2005. Grady began her career in law enforcement as a patrol officer in Woodridge in 1986.

police Blotter | WEEK OF DEC. 22 The following items were compiled from the official reports of the Downers Grove, Westmont and Woodridge police departments. Appearing in the police blotter does not constitute a finding of guilt, only a court of law can make that determination.

Downers Grove

No reports submitted at press time.

Westmont Monday, December 16, 2013 Sometime between 7 a.m. and 6 p.m. Dec. 16, an unknown offender(s) damaged a car in the

200 block of East Ogden Avenue. The estimated loss is $200. At approximately 9:21 p.m. Dec. 18, officers conducted a traffic stop in the 5900 block of South Cass Avenue. Officers arrested James F. Dalu, male, age 25, of 211 E. Naperville Road #1E, for driving with a revoked driver’s license. Dalu was cited for no proof of registration and operating an uninsured vehicle. Dalu was released after posting bond. At approximately 9:05 a.m. Dec. 19, officers conducted a traffic stop in the 300 block of East Ogden Avenue. Officers arrested Juan Cardenas, male, age 27, of 9900 58th St.,#C1,Countryside,for driving with a suspended driver’s license. Cardenas was cited for

improper display of registration. Cardenas was released on his own recognizance. Sometime between 1 and 4:20 p.m. Dec. 20, an unknown offender(s) stole $400 from a residence in the 900 block of Noel Court. At approximately 6 a.m. Dec. 21, officers responded to the 500 block of West 61st Street for a complaint of animal cruelty. Officers cited dog owner, Fady RF Aziz, male, age 35, of 531 Brookside Drive #D, for animal cruelty. Aziz was released on his own recognizance. Sometime between 11 p.m. Dec. 20 and 4:15 p.m. Dec. 21, an unknown offender(s) stole a Christmas lawn decoration off of a lawn in the 300 block of North

Grant Street. The estimated loss is $90. At approximately 9:23 p.m. Dec. 22, officers conducted a traffic stop in the 0-100 block of East Richmond Street. Officers arrested Sara Dunn, female, age 19, of 4850 Francisco Ave., Downers Grove, for possession of cannabis and possession of drug paraphernalia. She was cited for improper display of registration and operating an uninsured vehicle. Dunn was released on her own recognizance.

Woodridge At approximately 12:31a.m. Dec. 13, Dalton Reed, 20, 7972 Burr Ridge Court, Woodridge, was charged with driving too fast for

conditions and leaving the scene of a property damage accident, following a traffic accident on 83rd Street at Route 53. At approximately 8:48 p.m. Dec. 17, a male juvenile, age 16, was charged with possession of cannabis, following a traffic stop in the 8100 block of Lemont Road. A criminal damage to property occurred sometime between 8 p.m. Dec. 17 and 9 a.m. Dec. 18 in the 2000 block of 75th Street. Unknown person cut the phone wires located behind a business. A theft occurred at approximately 3:18 p.m. Dec. 18, from JCPenney, 7400 Woodward. Unknown persons removed an iPad from the store.

Take 5 Crossword Puzzle

Across 1 Sign of trouble 4 Sword holder 10 San Joaquin Valley concern 14 PC core 15 Yes or no follower 16 Dance that tells a story 17 Farm girl 18 Physicist got all wound up? 20 Prefix with European 22 “Enough!” 23 Race line 25 Fireworks reaction 26 “The Stepford Wives” author Levin 29 Mathematician got ready for a shower? 34 Swing around on an axis 35 Sigh of sorrow 36 Seismologist rose to new heights? 42 California’s __ Valley 43 Unrefined type 44 Physicist made

Down an opposing move? 52 Explosive letters 53 “I’ll meet thee on the __-rig”: Burns 54 Fur piece 55 Socrates, for one 60 Selma or Patty, to Bart Simpson 61 Microbiologist spread some gossip? 64 Even up 65 On the lower side, in a heeling vessel 66 Twitterpated 67 Half of nine? 68 Insurance deals with it 69 Conical shelter 70 Web address component

1 Religious split 2 Not against entertaining 3 Cherry-topped treat 4 Former flier 5 Makes haste 6 In the past, in the past 7 He sang between Melanie and Joan at Woodstock 8 Where to get a brew 9 Victim of Achilles 10 LaBeouf of “Transformers” films 11 Six, nine or twelve, for three 12 Cry for a matador 13 Wander 19 Greeting to an unexpected visitor 21 Saturn, for one 24 Mrs. Addams, to Gomez 27 Interpret, as X-rays 28 They may be classified 30 Final: Abbr. 31 Mystery writer

Grafton 32 __-Croatian 33 Amigo 36 Nothing, in Nice 37 Knocks off 38 One might be bummed, briefly 39 Almost worthless amount 40 Put one over on 41 Fine things 42 Pepper or Snorkel: Abbr. 45 K thru 12 46 Make more changes to 47 Fang 48 Greek vowel 49 Much more than edged 50 Periodic weather disruption 51 Not fancy at all 56 Long migration, say 57 “Lost” setting 58 One bounce, on the diamond 59 Campbell of “Scream” 61 Birdie plus one 62 “Hostel” director Roth 63 Low grade

THE BUGLE JANUARY 1, 2014

Horoscopes Don’t jump to conclusions during the week to come. Give everyone the benefit of the doubt and continue to approach others with the holiday spirit, even if you feel challenged to defend your work or reputation.

Some things simply must be done before the end of the year. This week might present you with more than one challenge as you try to fit everything into a hectic schedule. Cooperate with others.

Time marches on. Accept the changes you can’t control with good grace. Each year ends only to be replaced by a new one. In the same way, other areas of your life are altered irrevocably.

Know when to hold them and know when to fold them. There may be numerous demands on your time and patience throughout the week ahead, but you have the wisdom to meet challenges with aplomb.

Remember the carpenter’s wise old saying: “Measure twice and cut once.” In the week ahead, carefully consider every step before you take action. A careless mistake could cause enormous extra effort later.

Don’t let diction cause friction. Misunderstandings are possible in the week ahead, so make it a priority to communicate as clearly and calmly as possible. It’s better to say too much than too little.

Time is on your side. If a major project is nearly complete this week, don’t rush or force it. There may be some nagging details you’ve overlooked. Don’t feel you must compete with someone for attention.

You don’t need to be in charge of a classroom or stand at a podium to be respected for your knowledge. Jot down creative ideas as they might become useful during the coming week.

As you travel along your way this week, accept the speed limits. Aggravations and arguments over personal value systems, money and possessions can be avoided.

Be thrilled to the gills. You might feel you’re in over your head during a few tense moments in the week ahead, but exciting holiday plans offer an incentive to get back in the swim quickly.

You may find a way to get your way, but it won’t necessarily make your day. In the upcoming week, there may be a tendency for people in general to be focused on one-ups-manship rather than fair play.

Take a breather. To get through the first half of the week unscathed you might be wise to adopt an attitude of healthy respect for authority. Don’t initiate anything of importance or make impulsive changes.

Sudoku

Jumble

Tribune Content Agency 2013

Previous puzzle’s answers

Previous puzzle’s answers

Previous puzzle’s answers

Jumbles: • DANDY • FENCE • PREACH • FRIGID

Answer:

When the doctor’s assistant conducted the sound test, she was -- A HEARING “AID”

9

10

THE BUGLE JANUARY 1, 2014

Bugle Kids

INSIDE: Locals enjoying D-I success, page 12; Mustangs girls hoops inconsistent at Oswego East Tournament, page 13

www.buglenewspapers.com

THE BUGLE JANUARY 1, 2014

11

A look back at 2013, the year in sports There were a lot of success stories throughout the area this past year, led by multiple state champions. Here are the top stories of 2013.

Mustangs gallop to crown How dominant was Downers South in its march to the 2013 boys state volleyball championship? Only three of the eight matches played Friday and Saturday went two games. The Mustangs took part in two of those, and won both decisively—a 25-18, 25-21 win over St. Charles North in Saturday’s semifinal match, and 25-18, 25-20 for the state crown against Lincoln-Way North. Other noteworthy accomplishments for DGS— which won its first state title since the boys soccer team’s 2005 Class AA championship—include handing the 37-4 Phoenix only their second two-games loss of the year, and becoming the first boys volleyball team in state history to win it all despite losing 10-or-more games (the Mustangs finished 31-10). And the Mustangs finished off the Phoenix in surprisingly easy fashion, using a combination of timely kills by senior Nick Timreck (11) and junior Mike Schmitt (10), with great defense and crisp passing—specifically from seniors DeMarco and Steve Kryk, along with junior Tyler Zowaski. DGS also became the first West Suburban Conference squad to win a boys state volleyball title.

Lions roar to title It has been said throughout the years all you need to win a state title in the IHSA baseball tournament is two good pitchers and some timely hitting. Lisle proved that is true when it claimed the Class 2A state title

with a 10-1 win over Pleasant Plains at Peoria’s Dozer Park. The Lions did it behind the left arm of Alex Ventrella, who went five innings, giving up four hits and one unearned run. Leading the way offensively for Lisle was Brian Czyl, who was 2-for-2 with a pair of runs scored. Kevin Coppin, Jake Oard and Bailey Welch had two RBI, while Adam Grego and Jordan Herman each drove in one. The trip to state was the first one ever for the Lions’ baseball team, but it was no surprise the Lions won it.As a school, Lisle has advanced to state four times in three sports and has come away with the title three times.

Benet one short of three-peat As soon as the dust cleared last season after Benet Academy’s second-straight Class 4A title and the graduation of seven seniors, people doubted the Redwings’ chances to return to the state finals. When Boston College-bound senior Brittany Pavich was lost to an injury this year, the doubt grew even more. So, when Benet stepped on the floor of Redbird Arena in the Class 4A title game against Mother McAuley, it proved the doubters wrong. The match itself didn’t go the way Benet (36-6) had hoped, as the Mighty Macs won the match 25-22, 25-19, snapping the Redwings’ title run, but it was the third-straight season they played in the final game of the season. The Redwings were paced by six kills each from Rachael Fara and Dana Griffin. Wolf tallied 13 digs, while Kelly O’Malley added 11 digs. Setter Stephanie Sinnappan posted 20 assists. See 2013, page 15

Mark Gregory/Bugle Staff

Lisle celebrates after winning the 2013 Class 2A state title.

12

Sports

THE BUGLE JANUARY 1, 2014

Locals enjoy successful seasons at D-I level By Scott Taylor Sports Editor

The 2013 Division-I fall season is in the books except for a few bowl games. Here is how the local products fared.

BENET •Eileen Carmignani was a junior on the Valparaiso cross country team. •Jack Crain was a freshman linebacker for the University of Dayton football team. •Sheila Doyle appeared in eight matches for the University of North Carolina volleyball team, finishing with eight digs in her freshman season. •Jack Euritt was a freshman wide receiver for Dayton. •Pat Flavin was a sophomore offensive lineman for the University of Illinois football team. •Meghan Haggerty appeared

in 31 matches with 28 starts for the University of Nebraska volleyball team. The sophomore had 178 kills and 108 blocks from her middle position, with a .279 hitting percentage. The Huskers advanced to the Elite Eight before falling to the defending champion Texas Longhorns. •Dayton sophomore Jenna Jendryk had 88 kills and 978 assists for the Flyers. She contributed 28 aces, 186 digs and 106 blocks in her first year as a setter in college. •Jessica Jendryk transferred from the University of Illinois to St. Louis University where she played her senior year. In 30 matches and 25 starts she had 137 kills and 65 blocks. •Hannah Kaminsky was named the Freshman of the Year for the Missouri Valley Conference. The Southern Illinois University setter had 1,196 assists on the See D-I, page 15

SIU Athletic Communications

Benet’s Hannah Kaminsky was the MVC freshman of the year while at Southern Illinois.

Sports

THE BUGLE JANUARY 1, 2014

13

Mustangs inconsistent at Oswego East By Scott Taylor Sports Editor

The theme from many teams at the Oswego East Holiday Tournament was consistency. Downers South is included among those teams. The Mustangs went 1-2 through the first three games of the tournament, but were in position to win all three heading into Saturday’s finale. They opened play with a 59-50 loss to Aurora Central Catholic as Vashae Easley scored 15 points, Claire Hardy added 11 and Nicole Landrosh had 10. The Mustangs then beat Plainfield Central 38-26 behind 19 from Hardy. They then fell to Harlem 4644 with Hardy putting up 17 points. “We’re trying to overcome injuries and find ways to win games,” Downers South coach Lynsie Long said.“We’re hustling. The first game we could have won, it was another game we were up and let them back in it and they ended up winning. Yesterday was our best game and we won by 12 and today was another game where we came up short again.” Downers South showed its potential in the first half against Harlem, racing out to a 25-16 halftime lead. The Huskies fought back though and trailed 29-28 after three. Harlem took the lead and extended it to 10 at 39-29 before Downers South made a late run. Harlem’s Mckaela Schmelzer, after being limited to two points in the first half, went off for 25 in the second half. “They have a couple good players on their team,” Long said. “No. 23 (Schmelzer) she was someone I told my team to faceguard her. We did a good job of that in the first half, but in the second half we let down on our defense a little bit. She got four or five threes off and dominated us in the second half.” Some of the inconsistency for the Mustangs has come from injuries and a new coaching staff. “We’ve been battling all season with injuries and different things,” Long said.“There’s been a lot of adversity this year. But they always battle and fight through it

Scott Taylor/Bugle Staff

Vashae Easley scored 15 points for Downers South in a 59-50 loss to Aurora Central Catholic in the Oswego East Tournament.

all. We just need people to step up more and more improvement every game.” Downers South faced off with Larkin Saturday in the third place consolation game. However, winning wasn’t everything for Long. “I’m just worried about playing well and consistent,” Long stated. “We’re struggling with our consistency right now. It just isn’t there. I’d like to see us play well for the entire game and not let up for a quarter.” With two players out for the year with ACL injuries, Long has moved up two freshmen to the varsity level. “I brought up a couple of freshmen who could be very good players in the future,” Long said. “We’re working on getting them meshed with the team and used to the plays and getting varsity experience. Long hopes the tournament experience will help them for the second half of the season. “I’m glad we’re not playing conference games right now so we can get the new girls in the mix of things,” Long said. “When we go back after break and this tournament, they will have a better sense of what they are doing.” Follow Scott @Taylor_Sports staylor@buglenewspapers.com

14

THE BUGLE JANUARY 1, 2014

er b m u N

BOYS BBALL Points Per Game Trevor Stumpe, Plainfield North Aaron Jordan, Plainfield East Prentiss Nixon, Bolingbrook George Sargeant, Maine South Jonah Coble, Joliet Central Miles Snowden, Plainfield South Andrew Palucki, Maine South Corey Evers, Plainfield South Romeo Magliore, Niles West Gage Davis, Bolingbrook Jake Nowak, Plainfield North Jacob Buchner, Plainfield South Jojo Rios, Niles West Jake Smith, Minooka Ahmad Gibson, Niles West Nick Novak, Plainfield East Logan Velasquez, Plainfield Central Calvin Brooks, Plainfield South Caleb deMarigny, Maine South Evan Hines, Niles West Shane Murray, Lisle Antonio Dyson, Joliet Central Allias Roberts-Burnett, Joliet West D’Anthony Wright, Joliet West

sporTs

7

rs e h c n Cru

12

25.1 20.7 18.4 16.7 15.6 15.2 15.0 13.9 13.7 13.6 12.4 12.4 12.4 11.6 11.6 11.4 11.2 11.1 10.9 10.7 10.5 10.5 10.2 9.8

Mike Ruwoldt, Joliet West Jeremy Glavanovits, Lisle Elliot Fizer, Joliet West Kevin Krieger, Plainfield North Adam Alexander, Minooka Joe Butler, Minooka Devon Sams, Bolingbrook Justin Windt, Plainfield Central Jon Arenas, Maine South Shakur Triplett, Bolingbrook Rebounds Per Game Jeremy Glavanovits, Lisle Miles Snowden, Plainfield South Logan Velasquez, Plainfield Central Josh Smith, Plainfield East Joe Butler, Minooka Shakur Triplett, Bolingbrook Zach Trussell, Lisle Shane Murray, Lisle George Sargeant, Maine South Jonah Coble, Joliet Central Romeo Magliore, Niles West Hund, Plainfield Central Calvin Brooks, Plainfield South Jake Pedrelli, Maine South Aaron Jordan, Plainfield East

Stats based on coach submissions. Don’t see yours? Send to staylor@buglenewspapers.com 9.4 9.4 9.4 8.9 8.5 8.5 8.4 8.4 8.3 8.0 9.0 8.6 8.4 8.0 7.6 7.3 7.2 6.8 6.7 5.7 5.6 5.6 5.5 5.4 5.1

Elliot Fizer, Joliet West Tristin Esker, Plainfield East Andrew Palucki, Maine South Joshua Dillingham, Bolingbrook Assists Caleb deMarigny, Maine South Myles Ward, Plainfield East CJ Redmond, Bolingbrook Jonah Coble, Joliet Central Jonny Butler, Minooka Nick Novak, Plainfield East Jake Pedrelli, Maine South Jon Arenas, Maine South Ahmad Gibson, Niles West Prentiss Nixon, Bolingbrook Joe Butler, Minooka Denzel Leslie, Joliet West Neal Tyrell, Minooka D’Vonta Jones, Joliet West Gage Davis, Bolingbrook D’Anthony Wright, Joliet West Mike Ruwoldt, Joliet West Sean Maloney, Maine South Logan Velasquez, Plainfield Central Brodric Thomas, Bolingbrook Steals Prentiss Nixon, Bolingbrook Caleb deMarigny, Maine South D’Vonta Jones, Joliet West Neal Tyrell, Minooka Gage Davis, Bolingbrook Mike Ruwoldt, Joliet West Aaron Jordan, Plainfield East CJ Redmond, Bolingbrook D’Anthony Wright, Joliet West Jake Smith, Minooka Romeo Magliore, Niles West Denzel Leslie, Joliet West Brodric Thomas, Bolingbrook Jon Arenas, Maine South Jeff Washington, Joliet West Allias Roberts-Burnett, Joliet West Kyle Hendzel, Lisle Myles Ward, Plainfield East Elliot Fizer, Joliet West Ryan, Plainfield Central Field Goal % Shane Murray, Lisle Jake Pedrelli, Maine South Shakur Triplett, Bolingbrook Jeff Washington, Joliet West George Sargeant, Maine South Julian Torres, Bolingbrook Andrew Palucki, Maine South Tristin Esker, Plainfield East Prentiss Nixon, Bolingbrook Romeo Magliore, Niles West Mike Ruwoldt, Joliet West Free Throw % Caleb deMarigny, Maine South George Sargeant, Maine South Gage Davis, Bolingbrook Aaron Jordan, Plainfield East Neal Tyrell, Minooka Odi Audisho, Niles West Jake Pedrelli, Maine South Davis, Plainfield Central Mike Ruwoldt, Joliet West Prentiss Nixon, Bolingbrook Romeo Magliore, Niles West Allias Roberts-Burnett, Joliet West

5.1 5.0 5.0 4.9 40 30 22 21 20 19 19 19 16 16 15 15 14 14 14 14 13 13 12 12 16 14 13 13 13 13 12 11 10 10 10 8 8 8 7 7 7 7 7 7 .667 .650 .649 .640 .630 .618 .580 .577 .545 .542 .500 .950 .850 .824 .816 .810 .810 .810 .800 .800 .800 .788 .770

Connor Bielat, Lisle Elliot Fizer, Joliet West Emin Ademi, Niles West Brodric Thomas, Bolingbrook D’Anthony Wright, Joliet West 3-pointers Nick Novak, Plainfield East Aaron Jordan, Plainfield East Prentiss Nixon, Bolingbrook Jake Smith, Minooka Gage Davis, Bolingbrook Mike Ruwoldt, Joliet West Caleb deMarigny, Maine South Kostelz, Plainfield Central Jojo Rios, Niles West Evan Hines, Niles West D’Anthony Wright, Joliet West Joe Butler, Minooka GIRLS BBALL Points Per Game Jasmine Lumpkin, JCA Jaida Green, Downers North Nicole Ekhomu, JCA Erin Heide, Minooka Chavon Banks, Joliet Central Kelly Carnagio, Minooka Brooklyn Bachmann, Minooka Peyton Winters, Downers North Chantell Mack, Joliet Central Monica Barefield, Joliet West Tyler Everett, Plainfield South Sarah Costello, Downers North Lexi Marin, Romeoville Destiny Hollins, Lockport Juatece McNear, Joliet Central Kate Moriarty, Resurrection Valencia Chandler, Joliet West Taylor Farrell, Resurrection Jamie Hopper, Romeoville Naomi Mayes, Lockport Hailey Schoenman, Maine South Nina Anderson, Maine South Jacqui Eubanks, Plainfield South Rebounds Per Game Chavon Banks, Joliet Central Peyton Winters, Downers North Jasmine Lumpkin, JCA Sarah Costello, Downers North Kelly Carnagio, Minooka Chantell Mack, Joliet Central Kate Moriarty, Resurrection Hailey Schoenman, Maine South Jacqui Eubanks, Plainfield South Jenae Rowe, Joliet West Valencia Chandler, Joliet West Sydney Arlis, Minooka Laurel Kucharski, Lockport Kyla Creal, Lockport Rachel Sutphin, Plainfield South Ally Fink, Plainfield South Kailey Foster, Joliet West Ty Battle, JCA Jamie Hopper, Romeoville Cherish Smith, Romeoville Jaida Green, Downers North Faith Heitman, Romeoville Assists Sarah Costello, Downers North Kelly Kons, Maine South Bre Sobotka, Resurrection Jaida Green, Downers North

.760 .760 .750 .727 .720 18 17 17 14 11 11 10 9 9 9 8 8

20.4 18.6 14.9 14.8 14.6 12.5 12.5 12.4 12.3 12.3 12.0 11.7 11.3 10.3 10.0 10.0 9.8 9.7 9.5 9.1 9.0 8.6 8.6 11.0 9.1 8.7 8.6 8.0 8.0 7.2 6.7 6.5 6.5 6.3 5.9 5.9 5.4 5.4 5.0 5.0 5.0 4.9 4.8 4.7 4.6 56 37 31 28

Taylor Farrell, Resurrection Brooklyn Bachmann, Minooka Sam Fagenholz, Maine South Lexi Marin, Romeoville Sydney Arlis, Minooka Chavon Banks, Joliet Central Bethany Bachmann, Minooka Lauren Porcelli, Downers North Nina Anderson, Maine South Christina Ekhomu, JCA Hailey Schoenman, Maine South Gabriella Galassini, Resurrection Giahanna Martorano, Resurrection Jasmine Lumpkin, JCA Jamie Hopper, Romeoville Megan Roberts, Maine South Monica Barefield, Joliet West Ty Battle, JCA Skye Osborne, Romeoville Jnaya Walker, JCA Nicole Ekhomu, JCA Steals Sarah Costello, Downers North Jasmine Lumpkin, JCA Tyler Everett, Plainfield South Jaida Green, Downers North Naomi Mayes, Lockport Chavon Banks, Joliet Central Nicole Ekhomu, JCA Nina Anderson, Maine South Taylor Farrell, Resurrection Destiny Hollins, Lockport Lauren Porcelli, Downers North Bre Sobotka, Resurrection Jamari McAfee, Lockport Kelly Kons, Maine South Kianna Campbell, Lockport Jamie Hopper, Romeoville Christina Ekhomu, JCA Jnaya Walker, JCA Field Goal % Ty Battle, JCA Kyla Creal, Lockport Adriana Acosta, JCA Taylor Farrell, Resurrection Peyton Winters, Downers North Nicole Ekhomu, JCA Jasmine Lumpkin, JCA Emilie McGuire, Maine South Kennedy Weigt, JCA Jaida Green, Downers North Free Throw % Faith Heitman, Romeoville Nicole Ekhomu, JCA Brooklyn Bachmann, Minooka Destiny Hollins, Lockport Naomi Mayes, Lockport Sam Fagenholz, Maine South Jacqui Eubanks, Plainfield South Jasmine Lumpkin, JCA Kelly Kons, Maine South 3-pointers Jaida Green, Downers North Sam Fagenholz, Maine South Erin Heide, Minooka Kennedy Weigt, JCA Nina Anderson, Maine South Sarah Costello, Downers North Taylor Farrell, Resurrection Nicole Ekhomu, JCA Destiny Hollins, Lockport

27 27 25 24 20 20 19 17 17 16 15 15 14 14 14 13 13 12 12 12 12 36 25 24 23 21 20 20 20 19 18 17 17 17 17 16 15 15 15 .609 .580 .540 .540 .530 .513 .502 .500 .460 .460 .821 .792 .770 .730 .720 .720 .719 .718 .710 19 16 16 15 15 13 12 11 10

Sports D-I Continued from page 12 season. She also tallied 261 digs and 31 aces in 113 sets played. She contributed 50 kills and 54 block assists. •Cara Mattaliano played in 23 matches and finished with 261 kills for Princeton. She had a .190 hitting percentage and had 28 aces, 211 digs and 15 blocks as a freshman. •Senior Connor Miller appeared in five matches with one start for the national champion Notre Dame Fighting Irish soccer team. Miller was a defenseman for the squad. •Michael Odom was a redshirt freshman linebacker for the Northwestern University football team. •Gabby Pethokoukis, a sophomore at Villanova, was injured in the first volleyball match of the year. She returned

2013 Continued from page 11

Trojans run to second After a successful sectional tournament a week ago, the Downers Grove North boys cross country team set its sights on placing in the top three in the state in Class 3A and bringing home a state trophy. That is exactly what the Trojans did, as they placed second in the state with 144 points. Hinsdale Central took top honors with 99 points, while O’Fallon was third with 157. Lyons (190) and York (196) rounded out the top five. North was paced by Zack Smith, who placed third overall in the state, finishing the race in 14:23. Like the sectional meet, Smith was followed in the chute by Ryan Clevenger, who also finished in the top 10, placing seventh in 14:38.

DGN swims to second Downers North capped off what’s been a record-shattering 2013 season at the state meet by capturing the prize that’s been on the program’s radar for years: A state team trophy. Led by senior Gabby Sims—who added to her collection of state championship hardware with titles in 100-yard butterfly and 100 freestyle, along with being part of two first-place relay teams—the Trojans secured second place, finishing just 3 ½ points behind

midway through the year and played in 17 matches. She was second in the BIG EAST with a .351 attack percentage. She had 163 kills and 47 blocks from her middle position. •Brianne Riley finished her career with the University of Kanas volleyball team. In 33 matches at libero, she had 55 digs and 20 aces for the Jayhawks, who finished in the Sweet 16 level at the NCAA Tournament. She leaves Lawrence as the career and single-season digs leader. •Kathleen Severyn was a junior defensive specialist for the University of Notre Dame. She played in 30 matches, recording 161 digs and 14 aces.

DOWNERS NORTH •Paul Hogan appeared in 20 matches with four starts for the Northern Illinois soccer team. He had six shots on goal in 539 minutes. New Trier (160.5 to 157), which won its fourth straight title. Superlatives such as “amazing” and “incredible” were used liberally by Trojans team members afterward to describe not only nabbing their team trophy, but racking up a collection of firsttime achievements throughout the year, such as winning the West Suburban Silver Division crown and defeating Hinsdale Central and Naperville Central in dual meets. Sims, one of three double winners in individual events, secured firsts in the 100-meter freestyle (50.12 seconds) and the 100 backstroke (53.93).

Trojans back to final eight Mt. Carmel came into its game against Downers Grove North having averaged 36 points per game on offense. The Trojans defense though was up to the challenge, allowing just one touchdown in the game, with that score coming on fourth down. However, it would not be enough as the Caravan (13-1) were victorious 7-0 in Downers Grove in a Class 7A quarterfinal. Mt. Carmel went on to win the state title. Mt. Carmel ran 55 times for 232 yards and had 65 total plays for 256 yards. Meanwhile, Downers North had just 30 plays for the game for 26 yards.

•Northwestern University junior Niki Sebo appeared in 18 games for the Wildcats women’s soccer team. She had five goals on the year, three of them game winners. She had 33 total shots with 13 coming on goal.

DOWNERS SOUTH •JoJo Ciancio, a junior defensive back for Butler University, played in 13 games with three starts. He had eight tackles against Campbell. He was seventh on the team overall with 41 tackles and had two tackles for loss. He had a fumble recovery and an interception. •Shane Companey was an offensive lineman for the University of Dayton football team in his redshirt freshman year. •Anthony Farinella, a sophomore kicker for Bowling Green, had 87 kickoffs on the year, averaging 60.7 yards with 27 touchbacks.

THE BUGLE JANUARY 1, 2014 •Danny Leach had 24 tackles, one for loss on the season for the Dayton Flyers football team. •Sarrah Ludwig played in 15 games with nine starts for the Valparaiso women’s soccer team. She scored one goal, which was a game-winner, and had five shots on goal. •Joe McLean, a sophomore, appeared in one game for the Wisconsin soccer team. •Ryan Oruche was a sophomore for the Central Michigan University football team. Oruche appeared in three games. He was the 2012 Defensive Scout team Player of the Year. •Senior Jimmy Schwabe had 11 appearances and started seven games for Butler. He had two interceptions in a win over Jacksonville. He finished the season with 36 tackles, two for loss, and two interceptions. •Valparaiso junior Nick Suker tied for the team lead in goals scored this year with four. Had

15

two game-winning goals and had 11 shots on goal. He played in 18 games with 16 starts. •Chandler Whitmer quarterbacked in four games for the Connecticut Huskies. He was 71-of-129 for 896 yards and five touchdowns, with a long of 75 yards. His 224 yards passing per game was the top on the team.

LISLE •Anthony Ventrella was a sophomore defensive back for the Western Illinois football team.

WESTMONT •Westmont resident and Hinsdale Central graduate Jamie Netsingha was a junior defensive specialist for the Cincinnati Bearcats. In 16 starts and 32 matches she had 291 digs. Follow Scott @Taylor_Sports staylor@buglenewspapers.com

Battle of Downers During the regular season, cross-town rivals Downers Grove South and Downers Grove North each won their halves of the West Suburban Conference, with South winning the Gold and North claiming the Silver. So, it was a fitting battle between the two teams June 1 in the Neuqua Valley Sectional final. South used back-to-back sixth inning home runs to score all of its runs, winning the game 3-2 to advance to the Rosemont Supersectional, one game away from state. The Mustangs lost in the supersectional.

Birdie Busters The Downers North badminton team netted its best finish since 2010 at the state tournamen, tying Reavis for fourth place with 11.5 points. Singles players Jessica Gomez , a member of this year’s state champion, Thornton Fractional South, suffered a knee injury and had to forfeit her match against a Naperville Central opponent for third place. Had Gomez won that match, Downers North would have received the extra half point and tied Fremd for second in the team standings with 12 points. Instead, Naperville Central and Fremd tied for second. Seniors Emily Planek and Emily Buhle closed out their standout careers by advancing to the thirdplace match, which they won, 21-

Mike Sandrolini/Bugle Staff

Downers South’s Nick Timreck and Chris Widdel hold up the state volleyball championship trophy.

17, 11-21, 21-13 over a team from Stevenson. The duo’s only loss of the tournament took place in the semifinals—21-18, 21-12 to eventual state doubles champions Denna Zayed and Marissa Mangala

of Reavis. In singles, seniors Amanda Schneeweis and Karissa Brazdys both made it to the fifth round consolation matches.

16

THE BUGLE JANUARY 1, 2014

buglenewspapers.com/basketball

Angels open with fast start By Mark Gregory Sports Reporter

Mark Gregory/Bugle Staff

Jordan Weigt led all reserves with nine points on a trio of three pointers against Thornton.

Everyone who knows anything about Will County girls basketball knows of Joliet Catholic Academy and its top Division-I prospects. Maybe less known but equally as important are the non-starters on the Angels’ bench. Those players were on display in the opening game of the Hillcrest Holiday Tournament Thursday in Country Club Hills in a 71-32 win over Thornton. “We are excited.We are trying to increase the depth on our bench and that showed today,” said Joliet Catholic coach Ed Schodrof. “They shared the basketball really well today. Hopefully that depth will pay off for us during the season. (The media) likes to focus on the starters, but I like to focus on the whole team and today I was most impressed with how they shared the ball. They had two or three touches back and forth to each other and then the shot and that means a lot.” The JCA bench tallied 29 points in the game, paced by freshman Kennedy Weight, who had nine points. “We want to get kids meaningful minutes in the game and not just when we are up 30 or down 30,” Schodrof said. “We are really trying to get them meaningful minutes so that we can trust everyone on the team when they are in the game. We have 11 kids on the roster and we want 11 kids who can play.” The reserves know they have to always be ready to contribute. “We have to be ready when we go on the court and we know that we can all play,” said

sophomore reserve Mia Farell. “We know how to set each other up for the best shot. No one tries to take over the game. Everyone works as a team and we know what we can do and we all go in and do what we can do.” Schodrof likes how the Angels all play within their abilities. “We all have limitations in life and if we can live by that creed, we will all be OK,” he said. “I think they did a really nice job of that today, knowing what their roles were.” “We are all really strong and we don’t really have a weak player on this team. Every person contributes,” said sophomore reserve Kaitlyn Williams. “We just do what we need to do and the team will be good.” Nicole Ekhomu led the team with 15 points, while Christina Ekhomu and Jasmine Lumpkin had nine each. Nicole Ekhomu and Weigt each drained a trio of three pointers for JCA, something they are better at this season. “Most teams played us in a zone so far this year and they did last year too,” Schodrof said. “So now that adds another element to the game that we can stretch them out.” In the second game of the first day, Joliet Catholic (9-0) defeated Stagg 57-33 Lumpkin paced the team 12 points, while Farrell added eight. Despite the fast start,Schodrof said the team is still looking to play its best basketball. “We have a long way to go,” he said. “We aren’t happy or satisfied with anything. We are just trying to get better every game and every practice.” mark@buglenewspapers.com

Calendar ONGOING Illumination - Tree Lights at the Morton Arboretum. The Morton Arboretum is hosting Illumination this holiday season, which is an opportunity to see trees in a different light. The program will take place through January 4, 2014 and will engage your senses with dazzling projections, trees that respond to touch and sound,and vivid electric colors throughout. Reservations are encouraged and tickets can be purchased online at mortonarb. org/illumination, at the Visitor Center Information Desk, or by phone at (630) 725-2066. Visit mortonarb.org/illumination for more information. Recycle Holiday Lights. Now through February 21, 2014. The village ofWoodridge has partnered with Elgin Recycling to offer this free service to residents. Recycle your holiday lights including mini-lights, C7 or C9 lights, rope or LED lights, extension, phone, or computer cords; all are eligible for recycling. Please - no CFLs. Recycling receptacles can be found in the Village Hall lobby, 5 Plaza Drive, or the Public Works/ Police Department lobby located at 1 Plaza Drive. Downers Grove Coat Drive. Beginning Nov. 25 through January 13, the village will be collecting gently used coats and winter accessories for all ages. Drop boxes are located in the lobbies of Village Hall, 801 Burlington Ave., the Police Station, 825 Burlington Ave., and Public Works, 5101 Walnut Ave. All items collected will be donated to Sharing Connections to benefit those in need in the community. Westmont Band Parent Association Craft Show. It is time for the 24th annual Band Parent Association Craft Show at Westmont Senior High School.This year’s show will take place on Saturday, Dec. 7 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. and there is no admission charge. Come spend a festive day shopping among vendors who exhibit an array of handcrafted items. Offerings include traditional craft items such as handmade jewelry, ornaments, knitwear, handmade cards, and fresh wreaths. Be serenaded by ensembles from our band throughout the event and enjoy the jazz band perform holiday classics. Lunch will be served beginning at 11 a.m. and concessions will be available throughout the day. Prizes

donated by our crafters are raffled off continuously during the craft show with almost 100 chances to win. Remember to bring home a tasty treat made by our flag drill team to satisfy your sweet tooth. Vendors interested in participating in the 2013 craft show, are encouraged to contact Westmont High School at 630468-8100. A Season of Giving. Join the West Suburban Community Pantry as we celebrate this Season of Giving.Your generous donation will help feed your neighbors in need throughout the holidays and beyond. Your gift of sustenance can mean the difference between someone enjoying a nutritious meal or going to bed hungry - again. There are many ways you can lend support to those who are facing “food insecurity” during these difficult economic times. Thanksgiving Celebration Program: Throughout the month of November, the Pantry will provide each client with a holiday meal.Donate frozen hams/turkeys or non-perishable food items such as instant potatoes, stuffing mix, canned yarns, pumpkinpie filling, canned fruits and vegetables, gravy and cranberry sauce. Christmas Celebration Program: Throughout the month of December, every client with a child 12 and under visiting the pantry, will receive an age appropriate gift. Gift donations should be delivered to the pantry unwrapped. You may also make a monetary donation by check or credit card. With every $1 we receive, we have the purchasing power of $6 and that is a lot of bang for the buck. Holiday food or gift donations will be accepted at the Pantry from now through the Christmas holiday. The pantry is open for donations Monday - Saturday from 8:00am - 4:00pm. Monetary donations can be mailed to West Suburban Community Pantry located at 6809 Hobson Valley Drive, Unit 118, Woodridge, IL 60517. Call 630-512-9921 ext. 202 if you wish to make your donation via credit card. Coffee Break Bible Study. 9:30 to 11 a.m. Wednesdays, Downers Grove Community Church 6600 Fairview, Downers Grove. A new Bible study series will begin October 23 on “Discover Prayer”. Child care is available. “Coffee Break” is a nondenominational Bible study held each Wednesday morning for women of all ages. The general

schedule is gathering, prayer requests, a discussion of the topic through a question and answer format. Three leaders are available to keep the discussion groups small. New study booklets are available for the seven-week study. Drop in on any Wednesday. Technology Tuesdays. 1 to 3 p.m. at the Westmont Public Library. Drop in for help with your basic technology questions. A team of librarians will be on hand to talk about everything from email to Facebook to smart devices and apps. We’ll have tablets and computers on hand for you to use, but you are welcome to bring your own device. Third Thursday. 5–7 p.m. every third Thursday at the DuPage Children’s Museum.Third Thursdays are a special time once a month for families of children with autism spectrum disorder, visual, and mobility impairments to come play at the Museum. All activities are free with admission or membership. B & B Ladies Golf League. Join us for golf and fun every Friday morning. Season runs May 4-Sept.28.9 holes at Village Greens of Woodridge. For information call 630-985-3610. Great Decisions Foreign Policy Discussion Group. 9:30-11:30 a.m. every Monday at the Downers Grove Library. Topics for 2012 include: Middle East realignment, promoting democracy,Mexico,cybersecurity, exit for Afghanistan and Iraq, state of the oceans, Indonesia, and energy geopolitics. Registration is not required. Call Nancy Peraino at 630-968-8706 for more information. Families Anonymous meeting. 7:30 to 9 p.m. at Gloria Dei Lutheran Church, 4501 Main St., Downers Grove. Families Anonymous is a 12Step fellowship for families and friends of persons with destructive behavior, whether caused by drugs, alcohol, or related behavioral problems. Meetings are held weekly. Contact DownersFA@gmail.com if you have questions or call 630-6099971. Alcoholics Anonymous. Meetings daily at the West SuburbanAlano Club,17W.Quincy St., Westmont. Open speaker meetings at 7 p.m. Saturdays and 10 a.m. Sundays, other meetings

THE BUGLE JANUARY 1, 2014 listed by day and hour on www. wsacaa.org. Memberships available: inquire at the Club. Baby and Toddler Storytime. 10:15-10:45 a.m. Wednesdays and Thursdays at the Westmont Library. Get ready for stories, songs, and interactive play. Young children and a caregiver can enjoy this weekly time together while nurturing a love of reading. For ages 0-3. Toddler & Me Playgroup. 10:45-11:30 a.m. Thursdays at the Westmont Library. Bring your young children to a special morning playtime in the library’s meeting room. Interact with other moms and caregivers while the kids play and eat snacks. Saturday Morning Storytime. 9:30-10 a.m. at the Downers Grove Library. Join in every Saturday morning for storytime filled with stories, songs, and fingerplays. This program is for children of all ages and their caregivers. Adult participation is an important part of this storytime. Job Club. Mondays from 10 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. at the Woodridge Library, 3 Plaza Drive, Woodridge. Job Club members learn to write

17

résumés and cover letters,develop interviewing skills and find job leads. No sign-up, no fee, just drop in. For further information call 630-964-7899, email askus@ woodridgelibrary.org, or visit www.woodridgelibrary.org.

JANUARY 1 Sinfonietta Bel Canto— Benefit dinner and Concert. 3 to 5 p.m. at Immanuel Lutheran Church, 5211 Carpenter St., Downers Grove.The concert and dinner includes ballroom dancers from Celebrity Dance Studio, catered dinner (menu includes beef bourguignon, herb chicken, pasta, sides, salad, dessert, etc...) and Viennese “pops” style music. Tickets: $40 adult, $35 Senior (60+) and Student (12 & under); More info at: www. SinfoniettaBelCanto.org or call 630-384-5007.

JANUARY 2 Active Shooter Community Meeting. 7 to 9 p.m. at the Westmont Police Department, 500 N. Cass Ave.With the number of violent aggression tragedies that have occurred across our country, the Westmont Police Department will be hosting a community meeting to address See CALENDAR, page 18

18

THE BUGLE JANUARY 1, 2014

News

westmont

Businesses participate in Holly Days decorating contest With 26 participating Westmont businesses, decoration judging took place on Wednesday, Dec. 11 when 27 businesses were viewed and three prizes were awarded Westmont businesses participated in the annual Holly Days Business Decorating Contest to help Westmont area businesses shine. This contest was open to all Westmont area businesses who could nominate their business or one they felt should win. Judging was based upon criteria for originality for unique design and creative use of lights and decorations; detail and consistency of arrangement; presence and continuity of theme listed on entry form; and overall presentation and impact of display. This is a cooperative event sponsored by the Village of Westmont, Westmont Chamber of Commerce and Tourism Bureau, the Westmont Park District, the Westmont Historical Society and Westmont Special Events Corporation. With 26 participatingWestmont businesses, decoration judging took place on Wednesday, Dec.

CALENDAR Continued from page 17 the topic: Protecting Yourself Against An Active Shooter.Citizens will have the opportunity to learn and discuss strategies to protect themselves in these types of dangerous situations.

JANUARY 3 Holiday Open Gym. 1 to 2:30 p.m.and 2:30 to 4 p.m.at Jefferson Jr. High School Gym in Woodridge. Grades 3-5 and Grades 6-8. Fee: $3 (residents)/$4(nonresidents)/ parents FREE. Bring your friends to shoot some hoops or kick a ball around. No pre-registration; pay cash at the door.

JANUARY 4 Welcome to Downton—An Afternoon with Lady Cora. 1 to 2:30 p.m. at the Downers Grove Public Library, 1050 Curtiss St. The fourth season of Downton Abbey premieres on PBS on Sunday, January 5. We’re

WEB LINKS For additional event information, visit or contact the Westmont Chamber staff at 630-9605553 or via e-mail at wcctb@ westmontchamber.com.

11 when 27 businesses were viewed and three prizes were awarded to area businesses. Three recognition awards were selected to be presented to area businesses. First place recognition award was Audi Westmont for their “Santa’s Workshop” display, second place recognition award was Alkaye Media Group for their “Nutcrackers on Parade” display, and third place recognition award was La Petite Sweet for their “Old Fashioned Christmas” display. “I’m so proud of my team for doing a wonderful job,”said Ozzie Haleem, General Manager of

teaming up with the Downers Grove Park District and Downers Grove Historical Society to bring you fun programs in celebration of the new television season. Mistress of Downton Abbey Lady Cora is portrayed with short presentations that provide insight into what life was like in England during the 1920s. Stop by the lobby to visit with our Lady Cora. Registration is not required - just stop by! Electronics Recycling. 9 a.m. to noon at Village Hall, 801 Burlington Ave., Downers Grove. Electronics ONLY are collected at this event, held monthly on the first Saturday. More info at www. downers.us.

JANUARY 5 Suenos Latin-Jazz Quartet. 2 to 3:30 p.m. at the Lincoln Center, 935 Maple Ave., Downers Grove. Music encompassing the sounds ofAfro-Cuban,Brazilian,Flamenco, and more. Please register as they always draw a large crowd!

Submitted Photo

The first place recognition award went to Audi Westmont. Pictured in the photo are: Kneeling (l-r): Karen Meagher and Tanya Benham. Standing (l-r): Denise Pieczynski, Ozzie Haleem and Mike Kaczmarski.

Audi Westmont. “They are really in the holiday spirit, and so many customers have complimented the delightful display they have created.” Al Kohout, Executive Producer of Alkaye Media Group, his wife, Bonnie, was the creator of the display at Alkaye Media.

“Bonnie has collected Nutcrackers for over 40 years and never had the chance to show them all in one place,” Kohout said.“The fact that we were able to, not only show them to the world, but be acknowledged for her collection is really a tribute to her.”

England’s Greatest Gardens. 2 to 3:30 p.m. at the Westmont Public Library, 428 N Cass Ave. Join Carolyn Ulrich, editor of Chicagoland Gardening Magazine, as she takes us on a tour of famous English gardens that are open to the public. For more information, visit westmontlibrary.org.

elements of the tax code effective for 2013,as well as the increasingly complex rules for sales of stock and mutual funds, Form 8949, and the revised Schedule D. Bring your questions!

JANUARY 7 Affordable Care Act. 7 to 8:30 p.m. at the Woodridge Public Library,3 Plaza Drive.Independent insurance agent David Wylly will review the Affordable Care Act and bring you up to speed from the basics to the most current details. He will discuss how coverage is structured, how potential subsidies are calculated, and strategies for the years ahead. For more information, visit www. woodridgelibrary.org.

JANUARY 9 Taxes are Everyone’s Business. 7 to 8:45 p.m. at the Park District Recreation Center at 4500 Belmont Road, Downers Grove. Judi Strauss reviews key

JANUARY 11 Chili Open Golf Outing. 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. at Twin Lakes Golf Club 400 W. 59th St., Westmont. Ages: 16+ This event is especially for die hard golfers. Dress warm and prepare to challenge yourself to a unique round of golf. Specific rules have been developed for this golf open in the snow. Sign up as an individual, or register in a foursome. Tee times may be requested but are not guaranteed. Fee includes greens fees, prizes, snow golf balls, hot dogs, chili, and beverage. Call (630) 8527167 for reservations. Entry fee: $35/Golfer.All day!

JANUARY 12 Grown-Up and Me Tea. 2 to 3:30 p.m. at the Westmont Public Library, 428 N Cass Ave. 3 to 6 years old. Dress up and

Diane Eenigenburg, founder of La Petite Sweet, enjoys pretty and sparkly which she incorporated in her display. “It was fun,” Eenigenburg said. “Turned out pretty and at night is full of lots of colors.” A special, honorable mention to all businesses participating in the 2013 Westmont Holiday Business Decorating Contest: 30 North Antiques, A Novel Experience, Alkaye Media Group, Audi Westmont, Burgess Square Healthcare and Rehab Centre, Center for Dance, Cordia Senior Residence, Cuts on Cass, Expression Dance Studio, The Framemakers, Golden Basket, J. Fleming’s Absolutely Delicious, K.H. Renovations, Knights of Columbus, La La Li Patisserie, La Petite Sweet, Manor Care Health Services, McGrath Acura, Mercedes Benz, NEAT Kitchen + Bar, Oak Brook Racquet and Fitness Club, Phillip’s Flowers and Gifts, Safeway Insurance, Uncle Bub’s BBQ, Uncle Jon’s Music, West Suburban Insurance and Westmont Floral, Inc. All the time and effort helped these businesses stand out, and bring the holiday spirit. Recognition awards will be presented at the Village of Westmont Board Meeting on Thursday, Jan. 9.

bring a favorite grown-up to the library for an afternoon of tea. There will be stories and songs. There will even be the opportunity to take an elegant photo and make a frame to show it off. For more information, visit westmontlibrary.org.

JANUARY 14 Village of Woodridge Blood Drive. 2 to 6 p.m. in the foyer of Village Hall, 5 Plaza Drive. The village of Woodridge will be hosting a blood drive to provide vital support to those that need it. Donations will be taken in the foyer of Village Hall. Donors will receive an awesome t-shirt plus a 10 percent discount coupon for Cheeseburger in Paradise! To make your appointment,contact Tina Nakutis at tnakutis@vil. woodridge.il.us or 630-7194717. If you are able to, please donate blood and share the gift of life! Donations help support Veteran’s hospitals that serve those in our community. Photo I.D. is required to donate.

Business & Real Estate interpersonal edge

THE BUGLE JANUARY 1, 2014

19

How to fix work problems through time travel Q. I often find myself with problems I can’t predict at work that make my workday rotten. I notice you offer ideas on how to see problems coming. Is there any technique I can use to spot problems before they ruin my day? A.Yes, write a list of the last four problems that stressed you out at work and a detailed description. Now write down everything the four problems had in common. Now consider this question: If you could time-travel, is there one proactive behavior you could have done to minimize all these problems or keep them from happening? Most of us, unfortunately, tend to make the same mistakes over and over again that result in different problems. Behaviors we may use include: not speaking up, being sarcastic or pouting. We usually can only see our contribution to our problems in the rearview mirror as we review our history and decision making. Fortunately, the future is yet unwritten, so we can apply our newfound wisdom to changing our bad interpersonal habits before

we create more problems. That is, if we can just see and stop our habitual behavior. One of the enormous powers we all have is to see we have more than one choice when facing a problem. There was a famous psychiatrist, Milton Erickson, who was shockingly effective in changing human behavior. All his students kept pestering him to write down his theories, but he was reluctant to reduce his thinking about people into narrow categories. The most Erickson would say about what drove his problem solving is that he thought most people were just a little too rigid in their problem solving. The point he was making was this: We all tend to get stuck in behavioral loops where we don’t see that in any given situation,there are perhaps 40 possible choices. We immediately rule out choices that may make us feel uncomfortable, foolish, embarrassed, wrong and other difficult emotions. However, the truth is some of our most powerful options will work, but first they will make us uncomfortable.

www.interpersonaledge.com

Quick TIP to help in the office: In any interpersonal situation, if you admit you may be wrong you’ll immediately take any arguments about the other person’s self-esteem off the table.

Consider being wrong, for instance. In any interpersonal situation, if you admit you may be wrong you’ll immediately take any arguments about the other person’s self-esteem off the table. Once the other party isn’t trying to defend their core value, most people are pretty happy to fix problems with you. However, you might righteously want to stick to your guns about how you are right and they are, well, wrong! Review your list again and ask yourself what options you aren’t seeing because you have been

Review your list again and ask yourself what options you aren’t seeing because you have been limited in the emotional discomfort you are willing to tolerate. limited in the emotional discomfort you are willing to tolerate. Ask yourself what options you might be able to include if you weren’t worried about feeling bad but were very concerned about getting results. Even famous adventurers get stuck in behavioral loops.Take that pioneer called Dorothy exploring that land called Oz for instance. She thought she was young, inexperienced and had no talents or skills to speak of. Consider her surprise when she discovered that the only thing keeping her from getting what she wanted is that she didn’t see the power she had all along.

The last word(s) Q. I often find myself in meetings where I am not understood. I end up explaining and explaining but it just seems to make my coworkers frustrated. Is there a better way to get my point across?

Dave Says: Dealing with model behavior Dear Dave, I live in Los Angeles, and my daughter makes $3,000 to $5,000 a month modeling. I don’t want her to become spoiled by this job and the income, and I need advice on what to do with the money. Should it be put aside for a car, and do you think she should have to pay for something like that herself? Lisa Dear Lisa, So how do we keep a highincome, high-profile job from ruining this little girl? I think a lot of it has to do with her interaction with you, and how you gently mold her work ethic and attitude. Don’t let her

become a diva. She’s not there to be fawned over or placed on a pedestal. She’s there to serve. That means working hard and doing the best she can. That’s her job whether she’s flipping burgers or making $5,000 a month modeling. The money’s nice, but what we’re really doing is making sure she learns some important life lessons. And you’re still being a parent, not a friend or peer, through every moment. When it comes to the money, you guys should sit down and discuss some goals for the future. I think it’s important that any car purchase be reasonable, because the best thing a kid this age could do with that kind of money is save up for college. Even if she goes to school on a full scholarship, she should

Don’t let her become a diva. She’s not there to be fawned over or placed on a pedestal. She’s there to serve. That means working hard and doing the best she can. be driving something low-key. Just because she gets a free ride in college doesn’t mean she gets to cruise the streets in a Lamborghini. Set the rest of it aside for when life really begins—after college. As her mom,it’s very important that you teach her these lessons now. It’s essential, too, that you don’t surrender the position of parent, teacher and leader. Chances are when this young lady is 34, no one will give a flip that she modeled for a while as a teenager.

The most important things here are the lessons taught and learned, not the money.

*Dave Ramsey is America’s trusted voice on money and business. He’s authored four New York Times bestselling books: Financial Peace, More Than Enough, The Total Money Makeover and EntreLeadership. The Dave Ramsey Show is heard by more than 6 million listeners each week on more than 500 radio stations. Follow Ramsey on Twitter at @DaveRamsey and on the web at daveramsey.com.

A. Yes, stop talking, ask more questions, and repeat in your own words what you are hearing until you are certain you know what others want. As the musician Jimi Hendrix once said, “Knowledge speaks, but wisdom listens.” (Daneen Skube, Ph.D., executive coach, trainer, therapist and speaker, also appears as the FOX Channel’s “Workplace Guru” each Monday morning. She’s the author of “Interpersonal Edge: Breakthrough Tools for Talking to Anyone, Anywhere, About Anything” (Hay House, 2006).You can contact Dr. Skube at www.interpersonaledge.com or 1420 NW Gilman Blvd., #2845, Issaquah, WA 98027. Sorry, no personal replies.)

(c) 2013 INTERPERSONAL EDGE DISTRIBUTED BY TRIBUNE CONTENT AGENCY, LLC.

20

THE BUGLE JANUARY 1, 2014

THE BUGLE JANUARY 1, 2014

21

22

THE BUGLE JANUARY 1, 2014

Travel RICK STEVES’ EUROPE

THE BUGLE JANUARY 1, 2014

23

Avoiding scams & pickpockets Europe creative place when it comes to petty thievery, travel scams By Rick Steves Tribune Content Agency

The Louvre is Europe’s oldest, biggest, greatest and second-mostc r o w d e d museum (after theVatican).It is home to Mona Lisa, Venus de Milo, Michelangelo statues and paintings by the greatest artists from the Renaissance to the Romantics. Lately it is also home to groups of pickpockets. It got so bad that last April the museum staff walked out in protest. The Louvre had to close for a day, and the management finally beefed up police patrols. Europe is a surprisingly creative place when it comes to petty thievery and travel scams.Tourists, especially Americans, are an easy target. Be on guard - even at church. St. Mark’s Basilica in Venice

photo courtesy of rick steves

In a shell game on a Berlin street, who wins? Not you.

Slow Count

Rotator Bluff You’re going through a London subway turnstile and someone is pressing right behind you. You feel something in your pocket, but by the time you turn around, it’s already too late - the thief throws your wallet to his accomplice on the other side of the machines. You’re stuck on the wrong side of the turnstile, and both thieves have disappeared into the crowd.

Cashiers who deal with lots of tourists thrive on the “slow count.” Even in banks, they’ll count your change back with odd pauses in hopes that you’ll gather up the money early and say “Grazie.” Waiters seem to be arithmetically challenged. If you have to use a large bill to make a small payment, clearly state the value of the bill as you hand it over. Some waiters or cabbies will pretend to drop a large bill and pick up a hidden small one in order to shortchange a tourist. Get familiar with the currency and

The Attractive Flirt or New “Friend”

attracts tourists and pickpockets alike. Loaded down with valuables, jetlagged and bumbling around in a strange new environment, we stick out like jeweled thumbs. If I were a European thief, I’d specialize in Americans - my card would say “Yanks R Us.” But scams can be avoided. Smart travelers are less likely to be victims, so be aware of these travel scams, which I’ve been tracking thanks to my readers and my European travel guides.

You’re a single male traveler who is suddenly approached by a gorgeous woman on the street. After chatting for a while, she seductively invites you for a drink at a nearby nightclub. But when the bill arrives, it is several hundred dollars more than you expected. Only then do you notice the burly bouncers guarding the exits - so you have to pay up. There are several variations on this scam. Sometimes the scam artist is disguised as a lost tourist or a gregarious local who (seemingly) just wants to show you his city. Regardless, be suspicious when invited for a drink by someone you just met; if you want to go out together, suggest a bar (or cafe) of your choosing instead.

The Excuse Me Spill

generally with something officiallooking in their hand. Some pose as tourists with daypacks, cameras and even guidebooks. Don’t be fooled by looks, impressive uniforms, femme fatales or hardluck stories. Don’t hand your wallet to anyone, especially not to fake police who want to “check it for counterfeit money.” The Shell Game: Avoid any gambling on the street.The classic shell game comes with a shill who wins money easily. Then it’s your turn. Believe it or not, there are enough idiots on the street to keep these con men in business.

A popular con is when someone squirts your shirt with gunk and then tells you it is bird poop.While she helps clean it up,an accomplice lifts your purse or backpack. And the list goes on and on. Scams can be easy to avoid if you recognize them and stay aware. Assume any commotion is created by thief teams to create a cover for their work. Wear a money belt to protect yourself against pickpockets, and leave your fancy bling at home. Above all, enjoy your trip. Don’t travel fearfully - travel smartly. Scam artists come in all shapes and sizes, but if you’re cautious and not overly trusting, you’ll marvel at how easy it is to have

Good Luck & Good Love check the change you’re given.

The Well-Dressed Thief The sneakiest pickpockets look like well-dressed businesspeople,

In many countries, colorfully dressed women are notorious for aggressively approaching the unknowing tourist with friendship bracelets or sprigs of rosemary. They’ll tell you your fortune and promise you a wonderful love life. Then they’ll demand money and refuse coins (bad luck), so the confused tourist gives paper money. This can also lead to a commotion where their children will gather around and suddenly everyone’s gone and all your zippers are down. It’s best to just stay away from any seemingly spontaneous interaction like this on the streets.

a fun and hassle-free vacation. (Rick Steves (www.ricksteves.com) writes European travel guidebooks and hosts travel shows on public television and public radio. Email him at rick@ ricksteves.com and follow his blog on Facebook.)

(c)2013 RICK STEVES DISTRIBUTED BY TRIBUNE CONTENT AGENCY, LLC.

24

THE BUGLE JANUARY 1, 2014