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Downers Grove 6-1-16

Page 1

June 1, 2016 vol. 8 issue 27

Lisle’s Harris wins titles in 200, 400 #buglenewspapers

buglenewspapers.com

see page 7

Featured Sports

State champ

Community ‘No Dumping’

Storm drain project educates residents on water supply see page 3

Police Woodridge Chief

Applications now being accepted for next chief of police see page 4

Forum Special Voices

Cheering the ability of those with Williams syndrome

see page 5

Schools New Principal

District 68 appoints principal of Willow Creek

see page 10

Business Perma-Seal Move

Perma-Seal Basement Systems to move operations to Naperville see page 12

Photo by Jonathan Samples | Bugle Staff

Korean War veterans place wreath during the Downers Grove South Memorial Peace Garden dedication May 26.


W ednesday, June 1, 2016 | bug lenewspapers.com

Memorial Peace Gardens honor fallen soldiers Downers Grove North, South high schools dedicate memorials for former students who died in U.S. Armed Forces By jonathan samples managing editor

nweditor@buglenewspapers.com @DownersGrvBugle

Light rain mixed with heavy hearts during a May 26 dedication ceremony for the Downers Grove South High School Memorial Peace Garden. Students, school officials and the families of former District 99 students who died while serving in the U.S. Armed Forces gathered outside of South High’s west entrance for the first of two dedication ceremonies scheduled on the Thursday before Memorial Day. “We are here to remember the lives of the men we lost, we are here to honor their service, and we are here to pledge our commitment to teach future generations the cost of freedom and the necessity to work

toward peaceful solutions,” said Jenne Dehmlow, social studies department chair at Downers Grove North High School. Christopher Esposito, social studies department chair at South High, said the work to create permanent Memorial Peace Gardens at both schools began about two years ago. “We must teach our young people the cost of war, and that cost is lives,” Esposito told the crowd. In total, more than 80 former District 99 students have died in the line of service. Among those who did not return home were U.S. Army Staff Sgt. Jeremy Bessa, who graduated from South High in 2000; U.S. Marine Sgt. Thomas Gilbert, a 2000 graduate from North High; and Marine Cpl. Joseph E. Stevenson III, who graduated from North High in 2005.

The families of all three men attended the dedication ceremonies. “Thank you all for being here to honor the sacrifice that these beloved young people have given in the name of honor, commitment and freedom,” Gilbert’s father, Michael, said to those in attendance. “We honor their deaths and all these devoted Americans because we should and it’s right. We honor their commitment to our well being and to their fellow servicemen. Please remember these brave and beloved Americans for the sacrifice they gave us. May God bless the fallen.” A dedication ceremony for the North High Memorial Peace Garden was held later in that afternoon.

Photo by Jonathan Samples | Bugle Staff

Jeremy Bessa’s son, Carson, 7, and family participate in May 26 dedication ceremony for the Downers Grove South High School Memorial Peace Garden.


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community

Storm drain project educates DuPage County residents on water supply Westmont, Downers Grove and Woodridge participated More than 30 volunteers teamed up with village of Westmont Public Works staff last month to label storm drains throughout the community, as part of a communitywide environmental education project. Staff and volunteers identified and labeled 264 storm drains with educational information that alerts citizens that they are prohibited from putting harmful materials into storm sewers, which ultimately affects the local water supply. “We want to thank all of the volunteers who came out and

news brief

Street dedication posthumously honors former Westmont officer

Dedication was in honor of former Westmont police detective Sgt. Jim Farley At its May 12 meeting, the Westmont Village Board unanimously approved the honorary street dedication of Jim Farley Way on Park Street, south of 55th. The dedication was in honor of former Westmont police detective Sgt. Jim Farley, who served the department for 26 years. Farley was also a veteran who served three tours of duty in Vietnam. Farley passed away Dec. 13, 2015, after a long battle with cancer. “This means a lot,” said Joanne Farley, wife of the late officer. “It’s an honor. I didn’t think anything like this would happen. I want to thank my neighbors and Trustee Harold Barry for making this happen.” More than 40 neighbors and family members attended the village board meeting in support of the dedication.

Photo Courtesy of the village of Westmont

Volunteer labels storm drain with educational information that alerts citizens that they are prohibited from putting harmful materials into storm sewers. participated in this event,” said Westmont First volunteer Jim Wright, who was the driving force behind the May 7 project. “This is exactly the type of thing that

Westmont First likes to get involved with.” Among the groups that participated in the cooperative project were the Westmont First

Committee, Environmental Improvement Commission, Westmont Public Works Department, DuPage Conservation Foundation, SCARCE and the DuPage Foundation. SCARCE assisted with the project by providing more than 300 storm drain medallions and adhesive. The medallions are about 3 inches in diameter and educate citizens to not pour any liquids into storm drains. “Only water should go down storm drains,” said Kay McKean, director of SCARCE. “We need to do our best to make sure residents know that liquids such as gasoline, paint, and oils are harmful to our water supply. Many people don’t

know that pouring anything but water into a stormwater drain violates federal law.” The educational medallions were part of a $15,000 grant that SCARCE received from the DuPage Foundation to provide funding for initiatives that improve water, soil and air quality in DuPage County. Funds have supported a variety of initiatives, including composting projects, pumpkin composting, no idling educational information, storm drain education and reducing mercury. Downers Grove, Warrenville, Woodridge and Westmont all participated in the storm drain education initiative, receiving a total of 1450 medallions.


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fire department >> Darien-Woodridge

Fire district recognizes personnel Two city of Darien police officers were recognized for their life-saving actions The Darien-Woodridge Fire District recognized the outstanding performance of several personnel during its annual awards program and family gathering May 21. Additionally, two city of Darien police officers were recognized for their life-saving actions prior to the arrival of fire district responders. Sgt. Jason Norton and officer John Jump were awarded the fire district’s Life Saving Award for their actions prior to the arrival of Darien-Woodridge personnel during an incident where a person was in cardiac arrest. Using their automatic external defibrillator and their subsequent performance of cardiopulmonary resuscitation, they provided an integral part of the patient care that resulted in a complete recovery of the person in distress. In addition to the two Darien

officers, Lt. Keith Kaschub and firefighter-paramedics Nick Anastos, Robert Bebar and Edward Vrba received the district’s Life Saving Award related to this incident. Lt. Darren Lino and firefighterparamedics Jay Breitsameter, Darrel Parrish, Jeffrey Taylor and Jamie Tunk were recognized for their actions on another incident with a pulseless, non-breathing person with a successful outcome. They also received the district’s Life Saving Award. Additionally, Lt. Eric Baran and firefighter-paramedics David Ciarrocchi, Anthony LaFemina and William Landeros were also recognized with the district’s Life Saving Award for their actions during another cardiac arrest call where they delivered the patient to the emergency department with a strong pulse and blood pressure

and a successful outcome for the patient. “Years of Service” awards were given to Lt. Darren Lino (10 years), firefighter-paramedic Mike Moran (5 years), firefighter-paramedic Mike Schleich (5 years) and firefighterparamedic Thomas Trapp (5 years). Finally, Battalion Chief James Skrabel was recognized as the district’s “Firefighter of the Year.” Skrabel is known for making an indelible impression on those he works with. According to the department, Skrabel’s knowledge of fire service is not just limited to firefighting tactics and strategies. It extends to every facet of the daunting challenge of being a great firefighter and leader, and ensuring that the knowledge base is passed along to all. In addition to his primary role as battalion chief, Skrabel has also met the challenge of heading up other divisions at DWFPD with equal passion and dedication, essentially improving and enhancing all.

police >> woodridge

Applications now being accepted for Chief of Police The village of Woodridge announced that it is accepting applications for its next chief of police. Earlier this year, Police Chief Gina Grady informed the village that she would be retiring from the Woodridge Police Department in the fall. Grady, the first woman to hold the title of top cop in Woodridge, was appointed to the position in October 2013. Ideal candidates should have experience with community

partnerships and be able to demonstrate a proven record of visibility and participation in the community, according to a position description posted on the village’s website. Candidates must also be committed to innovation, training, customer service and teamwork. Resumes and accompanying documents must be submitted to the Human Resources Department no later than June 20. Candidates must submit a resume, completed employment application, salary history and five references.

For those interested in applying, download and complete the Employment Application on the village website and email the completed application and accompanying documents to hr@ vil.woodridge.il.us. Applicants can also fax the completed application and accompanying documents to 630719-0021 or mail the completed application and accompanying documents to Village of Woodridge; Attn. Human Resources; 5 Plaza Drive, Woodridge, IL 60517.

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 Tiffany J. Larosa, 22, 2331 Ogden Ave. Apt. 3, Downers Grove, was arrested at 7:56 a.m. May 18 at Highland and Ogden for possession of controlled substance, possession of drug paraphernalia, obstructing identification, and no driver’s license or permit. Evan M. Hock, 19, 616 Rockspring Road, Naperville, was arrested at 9:05 p.m. May 19 in the 3300 block of Finley for retail theft. Saige Gonzalez, 23, 304 Burlington Ave., Downers Grove, was arrested at 3:47 a.m. May 19 at 75th and Fairview Avenue for DUI. Shawn M. Harvey, 25, 7835 S. Stickney Ave., Bridgeview, was arrested at 2:11 p.m. May 20 in the 7300 block of Lemont Road for retail theft. John R. Molenda, 29, 26W303 Peterson Ave., Carol Stream, was arrested at 1:41 a.m. May 20 at Fairview and Ogden for DUI and criminal damage to property. Bryan A. Hudson, 21, 100 Woodview Court, Glen Ellyn, was arrested at 5:04 p.m. May 22 in the 3300 block of Finley Road for retail theft. Tyler J. Lavery, 22, 232 Ahrens Court, Lombard, was arrested at 5:04 p.m. May 22 in the 3300 block of Finley for retail theft. Jose M. Lara-Cardona, 27, 1408 N. Martin Ave., Waukegan, was arrested at 2:47 a.m. May 21 at Interstate 88 and Highland for no driver’s license or permit. Stephanie T. Freiberg, 36, 10639 Parkside Ave. Apt. 3B, Chicago Ridge, was arrested at 4:34 p.m. May 23 in the 400 block of West Ogden for no driver’s license or permit. Ashley D. Wilfong, 21, 420 N. Park St., Westmont, was arrested at 10:28 p.m. May 24 in the 2900 block of Highland for DUI.

Westmont Zachary Boyle, 31, 1228 Fletcher St. Apt. 2, Chicago, was arrested at 11:20 a.m. May 16 in the 3500 block of Midwest Road for driving while license revoked. Connor McCarthy, 19, 631 Champlain Court, Westmont, was arrested at 1:15 a.m. May 17 in the 0-100 block of Plaza Drive for driving while license suspended. Christena Dycus, 28, 115 Cades Atwood Road, Milan, Tennessee, was arrested at 6:45 a.m. May 17 in the 300 block of East Ogden Avenue for DUI. Jonathan Book, 37, 5534 E. Lake Drive, Lisle, was arrested at 7:10 p.m. May 17 in the 100 block of West Ogden for possession of cannabis and possession of drug paraphernalia. Karolina Cepukaite, 20, 1921 Stratford Ave., Westchester, was arrested at 7 p.m. May 18 in the 600 block of North Cass for sale of tobacco products to a person under 18 years old. Jeremiah Ryan, 36, 520 S. Lindley Road, Westmont, was arrested at 10:30 p.m. May 18 in the 500 block of South Lindley for domestic battery. Joshua Roberts, 29, 2985 Springfield Road, Springtown, Texas, was arrested at 5:33 a.m. May 21 in the 0-100 block of East 58th Street for DUI and driving while license suspended. Jacob I. Rosado, 21, 2621 Cuyler Ave., Berwyn, was arrested at 6:29 a.m. May 21 in the 200 block of West Ogden for driving while license suspended. Rosario G. Latsonas, 20, 515 N. Cass Ave. Apt. 2F, Westmont, was arrested at 3:14 p.m. May 21 in the 900 block of North Cass for driving while license suspended.

Woodridge No police reports were filed by press time.


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column >> special voices

Cheering the ability of those with Williams syndrome editorial

By Daniel Smrokowski | Bugle Columnist

assistant editor

aNdREa EaRNESt aearnest@buglenewspapers.com

815.436.2431 ext.118

advertising

production

LauRa KatauSKaS • MaRK GREGORy • IGOR StudENKOv

In May, we celebrated Williams Syndrome Awareness Month – a time for us to see Williams syndrome and other intellectual disabilities as a gift. It was also a time to educate our communities about how to accept and include those of us with special needs. Take, for example, my friend Joelle Packard, 15, of Chevy Chase, Maryland, who was diagnosed with Williams syndrome. According to the Williams Syndrome Association, Williams syndrome is a genetic condition that is present at birth. Despite having medical problems, cardiovascular disease, certain distinguishing facial characteristics, developmental delays and learning disabilities, many with Williams syndrome are very social and friendly. There are 20,000 to 30,000 people in the U.S. who are diagnosed with Williams syndrome, according to the WSA. “I struggle with writing, but I’m really social and I love people,” said Joelle. “Having Williams syndrome makes me very, very social.” Similar to Joelle, I also have a difficult

June 1

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ADULT COLORING MEETUP. 7 p.m. at ballydoyle Irish pub, 5157 main st., downers grove. Join for a drink and a relaxing night of coloring. drop in - no registration required. For ages 21+. coloring books and pencils provided.

June 2

CRUISE NIGHTS. summer’s Here clean’em up & bring’em out. band: gemini dream. downtown westmont. the event featureslivemusic,radiostationpromotions, business and restaurant specials, and more. all cars are invited to come out each week, but there will be weekly car theme awards and raffles.

June 3

SUMMER NIGHTS CLASSIC CAR SHOW. 6-9 p.m. in downtown downers grove. all classic cars are welcome on main street from maple to Franklin; Featured cars park on curtiss street. Featured Vehicle (must be pre-1985): chevrolets (no corvettes). live entertainment: Zazz. For a full schedule of the classic car show, visit www. downtowndg.org.

specIal VoIces By Daniel Smrokowski

time writing by hand. To help with this, Joelle uses guided notes in class to help with her lessons. Joelle and her family believe that, with the right support and accommodations, anything is possible. In February, I had the chance to visit Joelle and her family in conjunction with producing three podcasts on Special Chronicles from the Washington, D.C., area. The first stop was the Special Olympics International office. Then, I had an opportunity to visit Joelle’s school to see how inclusive her private all-girls Catholic school is for people with special needs. The final day, I had an opportunity to join the Packard’s at a Special Olympics unified basketball exhibition game at Blessed Sacrament School in Washington, D.C. A “unified” game means that players come from both the special needs community and

June 4

SUMMER READING PROGRAM KICK-OFF CELEBRATION. all day. at woodridge public library, 3 plaza drive. Join for fun and games to kick-off summer reading programs for children, teens and adults. stop by to register and get all the summer reading program, activity and prize information.

June 5

GARDEN PARTY & ICE CREAM SOCIAL. 1 to 3 p.m. at gregg House museum, 117 s. linden ave., westmont. get into the spirit of summer with flowers, fun, music and tasty ice cream at the gregg House garden. Inspire your inner passion for gardening as you stroll through the historic garden. this is a free family event that will be held rain or shine.

June 7

SUMMER CONCERT SERIES–SPOKEN FOUR (POP/ROCK). 7 p.m. at Fishel park in downers grove. Food, wine and beer will be on sale. For weather updates, call 630963-0575 after 5:30 p.m. day of the concert.

the community at large. Joelle loves to participate in Special Olympics basketball and on the Washington, D.C.-based JOY cheer team. As Joelle is cheering, she brings pure joy to the crowd. One such joyous moment occurred during the Feb. 27 Special Olympics unified game at Blessed Sacrament. Joelle and her teammates clearly bring joy and encouragement to not only the athletes but the crowd as well. “People with special attributes are angels and they let us know the way we are to see the world and how we are to respond to the world and to see its beauty and not imperfections,” said Darian, mother of Joelle. Join me and let’s open our minds to the love and joy that those with Williams syndrome bring to our communities. daniel smrokowski was born three-and-athird months premature and was diagnosed with learning disabilities and a severe language disorder. He is an athlete and global messenger with special olympics Illinois on the southeast association for special parks and recreation team. daniel is the founder of special chronicles nonprofit new media company, a pioneering network that gives respect and voice to people with special needs. come join us at www.specialchronicles.com.

For more information on the 2016 summer concert series, visit www.dgparks.org.

June 8

WEDNESDAY MORNING MOVIE SERIES: “SHAUN THE SHEEP MOVIE.” doors open at 9 a.m. at the tivoli theatre, 5021 Highland ave., downers grove. all films are rated g or pg, ensuring a familyfriendly experience for every child. general admission is $1 per person. games and costumed characters will be on hand to entertain the children before show time. For further information, visit http://www. classiccinemas.com. WOODRIDGE LIBRARY CHESS CLUB. 10 a.m. to noon at woodridge public library, 3 plaza drive. adult and teen chess players—of all skill levels—are welcome. no registration. GIRLS WHO CODE GRADUATION. 6:30 p.m. at downers grove public library, 1050 curtiss st. Join to celebrate the completion of our 2016 girls who code club! club members will present their final projects and share their experiences.


Wednesday, June 1, 2016 | bug leneW spapers.com

Aries

MARCh 21 tO ApRiL 20

People fuel your passions. In the upcoming week you may prefer to work with someone close by your side. Your aggressiveness in social situations could ruffle a few feathers or a flirtatious attitude could be out of place.

gemini

M AY 2 2 t O j u n E 2 1

Opposites attract. You may be restless when working at any job unless you have a congenial other by your side. As this week unfolds you might find that a promising relationship is enhanced by some playful flirtations.

leo

j u LY 2 3 t O A u G u S t 2 1

Why you are mixed up isn’t much of a mystery. People may hide their feelings or pretend to be happy when they aren’t. Hold off on starting any major enterprises or making a crucial commitment in the week to come.

Across 1 it’S OFtEn SWipED At OFFiCES 11 CEnSOR’S tARGEt 15 DEER, E.G. 16 LEvEREt’S DAD 17 REMinDER, OFtEn 18 LARGESt iSLAnD in thE tuSCAn ARChipELAGO 19 SLip in A StORE: ABBR. 20 QuARtERS 21 OLYMpiCS COACh KAROLYi Et AL. 22 “FOOLED YA” 24 CORn LEAD-in 25 CARBOn COMpOunD FOunD in CRuDE OiL 26 CLOSED up 28 AttiRE FOR FiLMDOM’S thE MASK 30 MOnth in EL inviERnO 31 tERMinAL 32 MEMBER OF thE FAM 33 tinY tiME Div. 35 GOvt. COLLECtORS 37 “SWEEt!” 40 nORWEGiAn FLAG FEAtuRE 42 inDiAn BiGWiG 46 intiMAtE 48 WORDS tO A SAviOR 49 BREAKS OFF 50 nAvAL nCO 52 BiG nAME in ShAvinG 53 “thE GiRL nExt DOOR” CO-StAR hiRSCh 54 WORK unit 56 MuCh 57 WESt viRGiniA RESOuRCE 58 LinGERED 60 BiBLiCAL pREpOSitiOn 61 SuRROunDED

62 hiGh SChOOL SuBjECt? 63 COMMERCiAL SuCCESS

Down 1 inFORM 2 StARt WORK 3 MEDiEvAL iBERiAn KinGDOM 4 FiCtiOnAL GiAnt 5 ACtivitY 6 vEntuRE FORth 7 pOWERShOt MAKER 8 REDuCE tO MinutE pARtiCLES 9 SOAKS, AS hEMp 10 BEAtS ELECtROniCS COFOunDER 11 RAin MAY FALL in thEM 12 hAMMER-ShApED BOnE 13 pOpE WhO initiAtED thE FiRSt CRuSADE 14 DOLLhOuSE ACCESSORiES 21 LiKE ShORtBREAD 23 “BLuE vELvEt” ACtRESS 25 hORizOntAL SpAR 27 REASOn FOR

OvERtiME 29 GOES (FOR) 31 MAKER OF thE uLtRA SEt tRAp 34 MYthiCAL ARChER 36 OKinAWA’S CApitAL 37 DiAMOnD BuYER’S ChOiCE 38 RED FLOWER CREAtED FROM thE BLOOD OF ADOniS 39 DiGRESS 41 MOtiOn BACKinG 43 AviAtiOn SuppLY 44 put in ORDER 45 COMpuLSivE SuBjECt OF A FORMER A&E SERiES 47 RAt Out 48 GRinDERS 51 __ SOunD, pARt OF thE SALiSh SEA 54 ALExAnDRitE iS OnE OF itS BiRthStOnES 55 GAELiC LAnGuAGE 58 CEntER 59 WhALE __

librA

SEptEMBER 24 tO OCtOBER 23

Your restless need for contact with other human beings can put you in a predicament. You can be overly sociable in the workplace and too aggressive in a social setting. Think before you act in the week to come.

sAgittArius

nOvEMBER 23 tO DECEMBER 22

In the week ahead those with smaller minds may try to convince you that your dreams are too big. Work hard, live up to your responsibilities and you will prove that the naysayers don’t have a handle on the big picture.

AquArius

jAnuARY 21 tO FEBRuARY 19

Put a pause on parting with your pennies. As this week unfolds you may be tempted to make a large purchase or to enter into a binding commitment that affects your net worth. Hold off on making major monetary decisions.

Sudoku

tAurus

A p R i L 2 1 t O M AY 2 1

Build up mental muscle. In the week to come you may stumble upon priceless information or become intrigued by a new interest. The first half of the week is the best time to make key decisions and presentations.

cAncer

j u n E 2 2 t O j u LY 2 2

You are aware that quick fixes aren’t always an option. Perform repairs around the house, or with family members, to the best of your ability. As this week unfolds you can rely on a partner to point out flaws and fallacies.

virgo

AuGuSt 22 tO SEptEMBER 23

In the week to come perform a reality check before making major purchases or considering a career, business, or job related change. Concentrate on finding common ground with others, so that you can share in the benefits.

scorpio

OCtOBER 24 tO nOvEMBER 22

In one pocket, out the other. Money might go out as fast as it comes in. In the week to come you should make an effort apply thrift to your spending habits. Overcome a lack of purpose by sticking to past routines.

cApricorn

DECEMBER 23 tO jAnuARY 20

Cruise the headlines with curiosity to cure boredom. If you hone in on subjects that interest you and give them devoted attention, you will break free from tedium in the week ahead. A busy schedule requires a planner.

pisces

FEBRuARY 20 tO MARCh 20

The tenor of your life could be determined by the tone of your questions. A questioning attitude might be your secret weapon in the week ahead. Ask for advice to protect you from fantasies with no basis in reality.

Jumble

Tribune Content Agency, LLC. 2016

PreviouS Puzzle’S anSwerS

PreviouS Puzzle’S anSwerS

PreviouS Puzzle’S anSwerS

Jumbles:

• SCARF • EAGLE • MELODY • EMBALM

Answer:

WhAt thE ADviCE COLuMniSt DiD WhEn ShE WEnt tO thE FOOt DOCtOR -- BARED hER SOLE


WEDNESDAY, JUNE 1, 2016

page 7

>> InsIde: doWners souTH Tops doWners norTH In secTIonal semIFInal page 8

tracK and field

Lisle’s Harris wins two state titles; Prescott 2nd for DGN By marK GreGory sports reporter

mark@buglenewspapers.com @Hear_the_Beard

A season ago, as then-junior Aaron Harris watched Plainfield Central’s Kahmari Montgomery win state titles in the 100, 200 and 400-meter dashes, he knew that was a feat he wanted to try and pull off during his senior season. While he came up just short of the trifecta, the Lisle sprinter did earn a pair of state championships and a second-place finish. Harris won both the Class 2A 200 (22.17) and 400 (48.97), while placing second in the 100 (10.80). After suffering a hamstring injury in the beginning of the season, Harris wasn’t even sure he would have the chance to compete at the state meet. In fact, the state finals was only the sixth meet Harris had competed in all tear “I have to thank God right now,” Harris said. “I had a lot of adversity at the beginning of the season and I kind of hung my head low, but I worked hard and now I am here getting two gold medals and a silver. I fell short of the triple crown, but I made it and there are a lot of people out there that didn’t even make finals, so I am thankful. This feels good, words cannot even describe this.” Harris said the work he put into the comeback is something he has never done. “I worked so hard for this,” he said. “Those two months of rehab were the hardest I have ever worked.

Then I did conditioning and speed work. I was up at 4 a.m. doing pool workouts.” The two individual titles equals the school standard set by Chris Jones when he won the 400 and 800 in 1994. Harris leaves Lisle with seven total medals, one behind Jones’ total. However, Harris both Harris and Jones recorded seven individual medals. The University of Illinois recruit is the first Lisle sprinter to ever win the state title in the 200 dash and his second in the 100 is also a new benchmark for the program. Harris alone also recorded the most team points ever scored by a Lisle team at the state meet, as he placed fifth with 28 total points. The previous mark was 26 points scored in 1993 when the Lions placed fifth. The 1982 team earned a third-place finish with only 25 points. “We are putting Lisle back on the map,” Harris said. “We have a lot of young kids and don’t be surprised if you see them down here in the next couple of years.” In the 400, another representative from the city of Lisle placed eighth, as Benet Academy senior Konrad Bayer posted a time of 50.49. “This is my first year at state and I got a medal,” he said. “I ran a PR (in the prelims), but the final time would have beat my old PR, so it has been a fun week.” In Class 3A, Downers Grove North’s Robby Prescott led the way,

see roar | page 9

pHoTo BY marK gregorY

lisle senior aaron Harris earned three state medals, including two state titles at the state track and field meet.


TWITTER: For up -to-the-minute coverage of upcoming local sport events going on in your area, follow @VoyagerSport

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Wednesday, June 1, 2016 | bug lenewspapers.com

volleyball

Mustangs top Trojans in sectional semifinals By Scott Taylor sports editor

staylor@enterprisepublications.com @Taylor_Sports

Both Downers Grove volleyball teams made surprising runs as underdogs to win regional titles last week. That put the two teams paired together in a Glenbard West Sectional Semifinal Friday, a match Downers South went on to win, 25-16, 25-21. “It feels great,” DGS junior outside Shawn Tischler said. “I’ve personally never advanced this far in any kind of playoff. There is something special about this team. It definitely meant more to beat Downers North.” “North is always a huge rivalry all the time and winning in the sectional semis is always exciting,” DGS junior middle Parker Connolly said. “We had such a huge cheering section on both sides. It was a great game overall.”

After cruising to the win in the opening set, the Mustangs trailed by as many as four points midway through the second set, but battled back to win the match. “We kept our composure,” Tischler said. “We started getting tense early in the second set and that is what brought us down but we play best when we are loose and we got a big boost from our student section and we pulled through.” “It was definitely our senior leadership,” Connolly said. “They bring us together after every single point and keep calming us down.” Dan Kalmar had nine kills and eight digs for the Trojans in the loss. The key to the match came down to passing, and Downers South was on point in that regard throughout the match. “Our passing was the difference,” DGS coach Kurt Steuer said. “Downers South passed very

well,” DGN coach Mark Wasik said. “They have bigger hitters than we do and you have the combination of a great pass and the setters don’t have much work to do and the hitters pretty much did what the wanted. That put a lot of stress on our defense.” The Mustangs have gotten on a run the past month of the season and the depth of the team is a big reason why they are hard to stop. “We have a great team overall,” Connolly said. “We don’t have a bench, we have more inventory. The guys on the bench are always ready if needed and the guys on the floor are always ready to go. We have a balanced attack and so many options for the defense.” “We don’t really have a go-to guy,” Steuer said. “Our offense is really spread out. We don’t rely on one or two guys and our setters to a great job of distributing the ball.” Downers South now has the

see mustangs | page 9

PHOTO BY scott taylor

Shawn Tischler and Downers South beat Downers North for the third time this season.


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Wedn esday, June 1, 2016 | bug lenewspapers.com mustangs | from page 8 difficult task of taking on the defending state champs in their own gym Tuesday night in the Glenbard West Sectional final. “It doesn’t matter who is on the other side of the court,” Tischler

roar | from page 7 placing second in the 1600-run with a time of 4:16.52. “With 300 to go, I was feeling good and I just went for it,” Prescott said. “I knew no matter what I was all state and I came into this wanting all state. The pressure was off, it was my last race and I just left it all out there. I am speechless. I came in thinking top nine would be good, but I never expected second.” In the prelims, Prescott teamed with Brendan Lockerby, Robert Falconer and Ryan Birkmeier in the 3200-meter relay and posted a time of 8:19.21, but did not advance.

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said. “We just have to worry about doing our job and see what happens.” While South continued its season, it was the end of the road for the Trojans, who finished the season on fire, going 25-14 overall

after being 6-6 early in the year. “We’ve gone on a huge run,” Wasik said. “The last third of the season has been big for us. That is what made this so exciting. As a coach you are trying to get better for the end of the season and it

was nice to see them reach their potential.” Looking back, the win over Wheaton Warrenville South will always be remembered as one of the biggest wins in program history.

“That win over Wheaton South is in my top three and I’ve been coaching for 16 years,” Wasik said. “It was special to play and beat them, who was the No. 2 seed. It was fun to play the underdog card and come out on top.”

North’s Alec Danner just missed a medal in the 3200 run, taking 11th in 9:31.79, while South’s Jack LaLonde was 20th in the race in 9:55.33. The Trojan quartet of Anthony Giordano, Andrew Marszewski, Zharion Jackson and Tariun Triplett ran a time of 42.46 and did not qualify for finals. Triplett also competed in the 100 dash, but missed the cut with a time of 10.84. South had the foursome of Ben Jung, Prince Boadi, Ian Wisniewski and Juankeem Finley compete in the 400 relay and post a time of

42.83. Individually, Jung missed the finals with a long jump of 21-04. North’s Dan Ferenc cleared 13-0 in the pole vault, but did not advance, while in the discus, Nick Mitchell had a throw of 141-0 but missed advancing.

of St. Charles North (6-1, 6-0), George Brennan and Cuyler Dul of Oak Park-River Forest (6-1, 6-2), Martin Matov and Ammaar Saeed of Naperville Central (6-2, 6-0) and Kiran Patel-O’Connor and Zach Settelmyer of Richwoods (6-2, 6-4) before losing to Zach Trimpe and Alex Gray of Edwardsville (6-4, 2-6, 7-6 (2)). The Mustangs again defeated Matov and Saeed (6-1, 7-6 (6)) before falling to O’Connor and Settelmyer in a rematch (4-6, 6-2, (10-6)). The Benet Academy duo of Patrick McGuigan and Jack Carroll

also went 5-2 for the tournament. They opened with wins over Carson Giardini and Adam Pycior of Boylan (6-0, 6-0), Grant Rodenberg and Ryan Stites of Waterloo (6-2, 6-0), Matt Ernst and Matt Kramer of St. Charles North (6-1, 6-1) and Jeffrey Chen and Michal Kusznerko of New Trier (1-6, 6-2, 7-6 (1)). After a loss to David Aizenberg and Brandon Lew of Highland Park (6-1, 1-6, 7-5), the Redwings beat Brian Weisberg and Matthew Harvey of Stevenson (6-4, 6-3) before losing in a rematch to Chen and Michal Kusznerko (6-1, 6-7 (5), (10-7)).

TENNIS The Downers Grove South team of Christian San Andres and Zach Wood went 5-2 at the state meet, winning four matches in a row to open the tournament. The duo defeated Luke Dunteman and Trevor Kurtzhals


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School Briefs

D.68 appoints principal of Willow Creek The Woodridge School District 68 Board of Education unanimously appointed Kurt Kramer as the new principal of Willow Creek Elementary School during the board’s May 16 regular meeting. Effective July 1, Kramer will take over for current principal Katie Matthews, who is leaving the district for other career opportunities. “I am excited to bring my passion for education and learning to Woodridge School District,” Kramer said. “I am beyond thrilled to have this opportunity to work in a wonderful school district with dedicated students and staff.” Kramer is currently the assistant principal of Geneva Middle School South, located in Geneva Community Unit School District 304. He also currently serves District 304 on the Leadership Council, Student Growth Committee, and Middle School Student Services

Committee. “We are delighted and excited that Mr. Kramer has accepted our offer to join the Woodridge 68 team,” said Cathy Skinner, superintendent of schools at District 68. “His experience with both elementary and middle school levels will serve Willow Creek School well. He is ready to jump right in and start meeting the students, staff, parents

and community members.” Prior to his current position, Kramer was a seventh grade social studies teacher in Downers Grove Grade School District 58. As an administrative intern at both the elementary and middle school levels, he gained additional administrative-level experience while at District 58. Kramer began his 10-year career with Plano Community Unit School District 88 as a history and geography teacher at Plano High School. Kramer has a Master of Science in Educational Leadership from University of St. Francis and a Bachelor of Arts in History from Northern Illinois University. He also holds National Board for Professional Teaching Standards certification. Kramer lives in Plainfield with his wife and two children.


Wedn esday, June 1, 2016 | bug lenewspapers.com | Pag e 11


News about local businesses in your community Wednesday, June 1, 2016 | bug lenewspapers.com

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news brief

Perma-Seal Basement Systems to move operations to Naperville Perma-Seal is moving its headquarters to Naperville. The company placed a bid on a 5-acre plot of land in an industrial area on Quincy Avenue, owned by the city of Naperville. On May 17, the Naperville City Council approved the bid and authorized staff to sell the land to Perma-Seal. The company’s expansion in recent years has found them outgrowing their Downers

Grove facility, where nearly 190 of its approximately 250 employees currently work. The purchase of a vacant lot lends Perma-Seal the opportunity to build a brand-new, state-of-the-art facility that will meet the company’s existing and future needs. Roy Spencer, President and Owner of Perma-Seal, said he would like his employees under one roof, instead of dispersed in separate buildings, as is the case at their present location. “For the past two years, we’ve looked at dozens and dozens of facilities and while there are a lot of vacant facilities out there, very few had the parking considerations we needed,” Spencer said. Naperville Mayor Steve Chirico

is excited for the company to join the Naperville community. “PermaSeal is a brand name throughout Chicagoland,” Mayor Chirico said. “To have it affiliated with our brand in Naperville I think is a win-win situation.” Perma-Seal plans to continue expanding its operations and product offerings and now has the opportunity to build a facility specifically designed to accommodate that future growth. Perma-Seal has additional warehouse facilities in Elk Grove Village and Hammond, Indiana to serve the entire Chicagoland and Northwest Indiana areas. For more information about Perma-Seal, visit www.permaseal. net or call 800-421-7325.


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Woodridge Rotary Mini Triathlon announces 2016 sponsors Woodridge Rotary said sponsorships are still being sought for mini triathlon For the second year in a row, Timbers Edge developer Pulte Homes is a $2,500 gold sponsor for the annual Woodridge Rotary Club mini triathlon. Rotary Club sponsorship cochairs John Perry and Magin Martinez recently announced the sponsors of the 17th annual event, which is scheduled for Aug.14. Additionally, this year’s silver sponsors include longtime sponsors andWoodridge businesses

Bridgeview Bank, Dr. Rob Girgis, Home Run Inn Pizza and Wilton Brands. Silver sponsors contribute $1,500 to the event. Another returning sponsor at the $1,000 level includes Illinois American Water. “Sponsorships reflect the commitment that these firms have to Woodridge,” Martinez said. “They increase the proceeds from the mini triathlon, all of which are donated back to the community. It is a winwin for all in terms of being able to help meet needs. Not to mention, the mini tri has become a popular and fun community event.” The Woodridge Rotary said sponsorships are still being sought. More information on the 17th annual Woodridge Rotary Club mini triathlon can be found at www. woodridgerotary.org.

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