Joliet 8-27-14

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community

AUGUST 27, 2014

Vol. 6 No. 51

city council

Board begins referendum process Joliet’s Electoral Board begins process of determining referendum that would change the city council

By Stewart warren staff reporter

stewartwarren509@yahoo.com @stewartwarren

By Stewart warren STAFF REPORTER It was man vs. Mother Nature Saturday at Hopstring Fest.

In the end, the boys won.

It began to rain not long after the 11 a.m. opening of the daylong celebration of guitar bands and craft beer at Silver Cross Field, 1 Mayor Art Schultz Drive, Joliet. But that didn’t dampen anyone’s enthusiasm. The fans headed for shelter. And Chris Flood of Lockport and Scott McNeil of Lisle, the men running the Red Betty IPA stage, started shifting gears.

“We had to move the stage three or four times,” Flood said.

Although it was set up on ballpark’s second-floor concourse, the raised platform wasn’t under the area’s awning. So they pushed the metal risers from one spot to the next until the stage was sheltered.

“Eight guys pitched in and moved it back there,” McNeil said.

DIY: that’s what rock ‘n’ roll is all about. And that’s what motivated Mike and Kathy Trizna, the owners of Chicago Street Pub, 75 N. Chicago St., Joliet, to begin Hopstring Fest three years ago.

See ‘hopStrinG’ paGe 3

the Details. Mike Trizna (center, holding microphone) prepares to make a toast Saturday on the main stage at Hopstring Fest. Addison Dotson, 7, of Joliet, and Chris Dotson, her father, also of Joliet, man a Hopstring Fest booth. They were selling bracelets and other jewelry made of ribbons and beer can pull tabs to benefit a boy who is fighting leukemia. Raymond Craig of Joliet and Ronnie Pluta of Crest Hill pause before joining the crowd Saturday at Hopstring Fest.

Joliet’s Electoral Board met for the first time on Monday with the people who want to change the city’s government and the objector who is fighting the move.

The different factions agreed on some things and decided to postpone decisions about other issues until a later date.

And in the end, the board members agreed to hold their next meeting at 9 a.m. on Aug. 27 at Joliet City Hall, 150 W. Jefferson St. That’s when they will consider the validity of signatures collected by the Concerned Citizens of Joliet and if there should be a November referendum proposing a new configuration of City Council districts.

Trying to Make a Change The Concerned Citizens is a grassroots-style political organization. It opposes the Council’s current structure.They think that it has caused a >> see referendum | page 3

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THE BUGLE/SENTINEL AUGUST 27, 2014

News

>> referendum, from page 1

community

City approves new regulations controlling charity collections Now all of the existing boxes must be removed in next 90 days

By Stewart warren staff reporter

stewartwarren509@yahoo.com @stewartwarren

The bin-vasion is over.

In the past few years, unattended clothes collection boxes have been popping up around town like weeds.

“They used to be called Goodwill boxes but now there are many more,” City Attorney Jeff Plyman said on Tuesday.

They show up in private parking lots, landscaped areas and in the public right-ofway, occasionally blocking sidewalks. They can be uninvited guests -- it’s not unusual for them to be installed without the property owners’ permission.

Well-meaning people often fill them with >> hopstring, from page 1 They wanted to create a Joliet showcase for homegrown talent and their favorite craft beers, something that was much like their restaurant and bar, only a lot bigger.

Now in its third year, Hopstring Fest benefits several local charities including Big Brothers Big Sisters of Will and Grundy Counties, Joliet Area Community Hospice, and the Miracle League of Joliet, among others.

Despite the damp weather and oppressive humidity Saturday, the fest was a success. Several thousand tickets were sold. By late afternoon, the place was packed.

There were young people, older people and lots of kids. Although some people wore muddy flipflops, the rain did not seem to

THE BUGLE/SENTINEL AUGUST 27, 2014

no more than two of cast-offs until the them can be installed containers overflow. on a single site. The And the boxes boxes themselves themselves aren’t must be made of the most attractive metal or resin and things in the world. cannot be rusty, Sometimes they’re riddled with holes nothing more than or marred by graffiti. sheets of plywood Mayor The boxes must be slapped together toM GiarrantE emptied at least once and splashed with a month. bright yellow paint.

“This gives the city manager The boxes can be a problem. So the members of the right to review a (permit) the Joliet City Council voted renewal and if they have been unanimously during their troublesome, he can deny,” Tuesday meeting to approve Mayor Tom Giarrante said.

Although the original new rules for their regulation.

Now all of the existing boxes ordinance included a yearly must be removed in the next permit fee of $100 for each box, Councilman Jim McFarland 90 days.

“Thereafter, no entity will suggested a $250 fee instead, be allowed to place, operate, and it was approved. Churches maintain or allow any and municipalities that have collection box on any property collection boxes on their own without first obtaining an property do not have to pay annual permit from the city,” the fee, however.

“Most are not operated by a the ordinance states.

A property owner now church or unit of government,” must grant permission for Plyman said. the installation of a box, and

have caused a problem.

“It’s great,” said Kevin Hegarty of Joliet, buying a beer from the Lagunitas stand. “What Mike and Kathy do for local live music is unbelievable.”

This year Cracker, a nationally known band is headlining the fest, Hegarty noted.

“That just shows you how much it has grown,” he said.

Not far away, Louie Tafoya of Joliet was enjoying his first sip of the day: a sample of a beer from a microbrewery. Unfortunately, Tafoya couldn’t remember what it was called. But he liked it.

“It’s good. It’s a berry-type beer,” he said.

Here and there in the crowd, girls were wearing bracelets and other jewelry made from satin

ribbon and the pull-tabs from beer cans. Addison Dotson, 7, of Joliet, was selling the trinkets to benefit family friend Zackry Eldridge, 12, of Bradley, who is fighting leukemia.

“He’s getting a bone marrow transplant next month,” said Chris Dotson,Addison’s father.

Sales had been brisk, Addison said. They were almost out of some items.

At the main stage, John Condron and the Old Gang Orchestra ended their set. Mike Trizna took the stage and urged the crowd to do something to help Zackry.

“We’d like to make an impact in someone’s life,” Mike Trizna said.

“The only thing we are asking for all day is if you could pull $1 out of your pocket.”

A group of people with buckets began circulating through the crowd. And the crowd responded – it seemed as if everyone was giving something.

Then Mike Trizna proposed a toast to music, good times, friends and fellowship. The crowd raised their glasses. And the next band started to play.

concentration of political power in the near West side, a situation that’s unfair to the residents who live in other parts of Joliet.

To solve that problem, they want the city to be divided into eight geographic areas.

Then a City Council member could be elected from each one, explained Richard Rodriguez, one of the founding members of the Concerned Citizens.

Under the current system, there are five City Council districts, and a representative is elected from each one. Three other Council members are chosen “at large,” meaning voters who live throughout Joliet elect them.The change would provide better representation for city residents, the group says.

For the past few months, the group’s members have been collecting signatures on petitions requesting a November referendum on the issue. They filed their petitions in Joliet City Clerk Christa Desiderio’s office on Aug. 4.

One week later, Sarah M. Andreano, of 1215 Glenwood Ave., Joliet, filed an objection with Desiderio’s office claiming that there weren’t enough valid signatures to place the measure on the ballot. She argued that they were forged, impossible to read or written by people who weren’t registered voters, among other things.

Now the Electoral Board’s members – Joliet Mayor Tom Giarrante,Councilman MikeTurk and Desiderio – must decide if the referendum is on the ballot or not.

Interestingly enough, someone who doesn’t typically work in Joliet is representing the Concerned Citizens. Ruth Greenwood is an attorney for the Chicago Lawyers’ Committee for Civil Rights Under Law Inc., an organization with offices on LaSalle Street.

Andreano is represented by Bryan Kopman who practices in Joliet with Kavanagh, Grumley and Gorbold.

Difficult Decisions During the Electoral Board meeting on Monday, Joliet City Attorney Jeff Plyman, who is serving as the Electoral Board’s attorney, gave a brief explanation of the process. State law established the members of the city’s Electoral Board, he said.

Greenwood then asked Giarrante and Turk to leave the committee, arguing that it was a conflict of interest for them to

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“I have always attempted to do the right thing and if it was a gray area, I shied away from it,” Turk said.

“If the petitions hold up, I will support that … if there are so many (signatures) that are not valid, I will support that too.” serve because both are part of the current Council.

Neither the mayor nor the councilman chose to step down.

Turk explained his position, saying he had been careful about his political choices over the years.

“I have always attempted to do the right thing and if it was a gray area, I shied away from it,” Turk said. “If the petitions hold up, I will support that … if there are so many (signatures) that are not valid, I will support that too.”

Questions About Number After much discussion, one issue remained unresolved: no one seems to know exactly how many valid signatures are required to place the measure on the ballot.Although state law puts the number at 8 percent of the Joliet votes cast in the last race for governor, it’s difficult to determine that number, Plyman said.

The problem? In Joliet, some precincts are “split,” meaning that people who live in Joliet – and people who do not live in Joliet – vote at the same polling place. In 2010, the year of the last gubernatorial election, there wasn’t a Joliet race on the ballot.

If there had been, it would have been easier to determine exactly how many Joliet residents had voted in that election.

Greenwood noted that the Illinois Municipal Code might allow a different number to be used: 10 percent of the voters in Joliet’s last mayoral election.That would be 1,547, she said.

“This is a matter of procedure.

This is something we need to decide,” she urged.

Although Greenwood wanted to establish an exact figure, Plyman disagreed.

“We don’t need to decide today the magic number. I think it might make more sense to leave that to the proofs of the final arguments of the parties,” he said. “It could be that the standard doesn’t matter either way to the outcome.”

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THE BUGLE/SENTINEL AUGUST 27, 2014

News

city council

Expert recommends repairs, decreased salaries Officials hire Rich and Associates to review policies, procedures of operating public parking areas

By Stewart Warren staff reporter

stewartwarren509@yahoo.com @stewartwarren

The city of Joliet has a parking problem.

It doesn’t involve one minivan jockeying with another for a choice spot. It’s not about a lack of parking, real or perceived.

It’s about the physical condition of the city’s downtown parking decks, the costs of running that area’s pay-to-park system and the need for upgrades to the whole shebang.

City officials had hired Rich and Associates of Southfield,

Mich., to review the policies and procedures of operating the public parking areas. David Burr, an associate with the firm, gave a report to the City Council members during their workshop meeting on Monday.

The most pressing issue is the condition of the parking decks.

They need work, Burr said. The structures have cracking walls, peeling paint and other things that need to be fixed.

“We think you need to have a structural consultant to do a detailed analysis of the parking structures,” he said. That would cost about $25,000. The city also

should begin setting aside money to pay for the maintenance of the decks, he said.

The parking system should do a better job of paying for itself, Burr said. The total revenue is about $1.4 million a year, and the operating costs are about the same. To pay for improvements, the city could raise the daily fee for commuters at Union Station from $1 to $1.25. That would bring in another $60,000 a year.

The city should also do a better job of collecting the fines from parking tickets. Currently, less than 40 percent of the fines are paid, he said.

Officials should also consider the salaries paid to the people who work within the parking system, Burr said. The labor is 60

percent of the operating costs, and the workers are among the highest paid in the state in their field. Top tier wages should be established for certain positions, Burr said.

“You have a high cost structure in terms of labor costs,” Burr said.

The entire parking system needs modernization, Burr said.

It’s difficult to determine where the public parking lots are, for example. The signage is small and sometimes almost hidden.

A series of new signs might cost $50,000 to $100,000, he said.

The meters also should be updated. As it stands, they only accept quarters, so anyone who wants to park in a metered spot must carry a pocketful of the

correct change, Burr said. For about $26 per meter, the city could upgrade the housing on each machine so that it would accept a “smart card,” a type of credit card for parking meters, he added.

Burr recommended attacking the problems by setting shortand long-term goals.

“You didn’t get into this situation overnight and we will not solve it overnight,” he said.

At the end of the presentation, City Manager Jim Hock mentioned that Will County might take over the Ottawa Street parking deck so that its employees would have a place to park.

“We need to bring a few other vested parties to the table,” Hock said.

News State of the County report

Walsh: Houbolt Rd. Bridge ‘needed now’ Increased truck traffic on Illinois 53 heading to the intermodals has been a major focus to the Abraham Lincoln National Cemetery in Elwood. managing editor nreiher@buglenewspapers.com “In financially constrained @JolietILNews times, we must use our resources creatively and wisely Although only on the highest priority mentioned primarily infrastructure needs,” in whispers so far, the Walsh said in his address. plan for a Houbolt “This project (the Road bridge to Houbolt Road bridge) is alleviate truck traffic needed now, and we are on Interstate 80 and committed to working Illinois 53 got a push with our state and local from Will County partners to make it a Executive Larry Walsh Larry Walsh reality.”

Will County Aug. 21.

Walsh has said in the Executive During his annual past there are private State of the County report, corporations interested in sharing Walsh said the proposed bridge the cost of the project as a publicwould connect I-80 from the private partnership. CenterPoint Houbolt Road interchange Vice President Eric Gilbert said south to the northern entrance recently any company interested of CenterPoint’s intermodal in particpating would want to properties in Joliet and Elwood. see buy in from the state, county Increased truck traffic on and local municipalties.

Illinois 53 heading to the Reportedly, one concern intermodals has been a major about the project is what entity focus during the past few years, would take over maintainance of especially as renovations on the bridge down the road. State the Des Plaines River Bridge on officials are looking for some Interstate 55 dissuaded truck entity to take it over after 40 drivers from using the Arsenal years of state oversight.

Road interchange off I-55. That One plan would include toll project was completed recently. lanes for trucks on a Houbolt Still, at least two semis have Road bridge, while cars would rolled over on the Chicago Street have a free lane. ramp leading to Illinois 53 since Public-private partnerships the Des Plaines River Bridge also have been set up for the reopened.

South Suburban Airport in Walsh in his speed during the Peotone and the proposed Illiana regular County Board meeting Tollway, planned as a nearly 50said the Houbolt Road bridge mile, east-west truck route from would offer trucks a shorter Interstate 65 in Indiana to I-55 in route to the intermodal yards off Wilmington.

I-80 and could help keep truck During his speech, Walsh said traffic from using the Chicago both of those plans also are on Street exit off I-80 toward Illinois target, with the state buying Bult 53 where increased commercial Field recently to use as the initial traffic has mixed during the runway for the airport, and a week with funeral processions record of decision expected on By nick reiher

talking points State of the County •

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Proposed bridge would connect I-80 from the Houbolt Road interchange south to the northern entrance of CenterPoint’s intermodal properties in Joliet and Elwood Houbolt Road bridge would offer trucks a shorter route to the intermodal yards off I-80 and could help keep truck traffic from using the Chicago Street exit off I-80 toward Illinois 53 One concern about the project is what entity would take over maintainance of the bridge down the road Walsh said both of those plans also are on target, with the state buying Bult Field recently to use as the initial runway for the airport.

the current phase of the Illiana by the end of the year.

With all of these projects and as the result of major growth during the past 20 years, Walsh said the county needs to focus on new and upgraded infrastructure, as well as new facilities such as an up-to-date courthouse that won’t have people standing outside in all weather, waiting to pass through a single security line.

He said he will present his annual budget proposal at the September meeting and that it will include a five-year capital and infrastructure plan.

THE BUGLE/SENTINEL AUGUST 27, 2014

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transportation

IDOT implementing safety measures on IL-53 Officials attempted to deal with increased traffic on Walter Strawn Drive By nick reiher managing editor

nreiher@buglenewspapers.com @JolietILNews

The acting director of the Illinois Department of Transportation said they will begin a two-year study of the traffic at Illinois 53 and Walter Strawn Drive.

That area is the entrance to the BNSF Intermodal yard in Elwood and has been the center of traffic issues for the past several years. Just west of the intersection is an Amtrak line, and trucks entering and leaving the area have struck the gates dozens of times in the past few years, including at least once in the last week.

Elwood officials attempted to deal with the increased traffic on Walter Strawn Drive, built specifically as an east entrance to the intermodal yard, by blocking northbound

traffic on Baseline Road, which leads to Joliet’s Union Pacific Intermodal Yard.

But CenterPoint, which owns the property for both intermodal yards, and other were successful in blocking that move until Elwood recently rescinded the ban.

Responding to a letter from Village President Bill Offerman concerning truck traffic affecting funeral processions at the nearby Abraham Lincoln National Cemetery, Acting IDOT Director Erica Borggren wrote that her department is “paying close attention to this issue.”

She said IDOT will begin a two-year engineering study to consider alternatives at Walter Strawn and Illinois 53, including the possibility of a bridge separating traffic from the rail crossing.

Meanwhile, Borggren added, the department has or will begin several other projects to alleviate traffic problems >> see IDOT | page 8

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THE BUGLE/SENTINEL AUGUST 27, 2014

Police Blotter

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13 30

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28

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10 11

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8 25 5 16 24 26 17

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The following items were compiled from the official reports of the Joliet Police Department. Appearing in the police blotter does not constitute a finding of guilt, only a court of law can make that determination.

Joliet 1

Terry L. Duncan, Sr., 58, 1011 Ann, was arrested at 10:09 p.m. Aug. 15 at Chicago and Liberty for possession of controlled substance, possession of controlled substance with intent to distribute, and possession of cannabis.

2

Linda Duncan, 52, 1011 Ann, was arrested at 10:18 p.m.

Aug. 15 at Chicago and Liberty for possession of cannabis.

3

Tyniah D. McCallum, 19, 2219 Rossiter Parkway, Plainfield, was arrested at 4:25 p.m. Aug. 15 at 334 S. Ottawa for disorderly conduct.

4

Artesia N. Titus, 19, 334 S. Ottawa, was arrested at 4:25 p.m. Aug. 15 for disorderly conduct.

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A juvenile, 15, was arrested at 1:30 p.m. Aug. 15 at 150 W. Washington for aggravated assault, possession of ammo

without FOID, and unlawful possession of firearm and firearm ammunition.

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Rafael A. Pabon, Jr., 28, 200 Sherman, was arrested at 8:13 p.m.Aug. 15 at 115 Richards for possession of controlled substance.

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Marvin J. Hogan, 37, 1015 Lois Place, was arrested at 10:20 p.m. Aug. 15 at Raynor and Jefferson for possession of drug equipment.

3340 Mall Loop for retail theft.

M. Hicks, 41, 316 N. 13 James Bluff, was arrested at 10 a.m. Aug. 16 at 316 N. Bluff for domestic battery and criminal damage to property.

M. Buckley, 53, 14 Denise 611 E. Cass, was arrested at 1:31 p.m. Aug.16 at 807 Vine for criminal trespass to real property.

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Jose R. Burton, 36, 611 E. Cass, was arrested at 1:31 p.m. Aug. 16 at 807 Vine for criminal trespass to property.

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L. Tanzy, 33, 240 16 Tambara Comstock, was arrested at 12:15 p.m. Aug. 16 at 150 W. Washington for aggravated assault.

Herbert J. Hugger, 18, 605 Pasadena Ave., Crest Hill, was arrested at 8:51 p.m. Aug. 15 at 300 N. Bluff for criminal trespass to real property.

Edgar Lopez-Contreras, 31, 415 N. Chicago, was arrested at 2:15 a.m. Aug. 15 at 337 Union for aggravated battery.

Erika Magana, 34, 815 Richmond, was arrested at 2:30 a.m. Aug. 15 at 816 E. Jackson for battery.

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Leopoldo Munoz-Morales, 31, 815 Richmond, was arrested at 2:30 a.m. Aug. 15 at 816 E. Jackson for battery.

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Rickia R. Dominguez, 30, 21 Pheasant Run Road, was arrested at 7:40 p.m. Aug. 16 at

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15

Jorge A. Hernandez-Tirado, 19, 801 Fisk Ave., was arrested at 11:45 p.m. Aug. 16 at 2424 W. Jefferson for retail theft and a warrant.

20

Martin Castillo, 22, 415 Garnsey Ave., was arrested at 12:22 a.m. Aug. 16 at 422 Garnsey for assault and disorderly conduct.

21

Rodrigo Arteaga, 27, 206 Clement, was arrested 11:01 p.m. at Aug. 16 at 206 Clement for DUI-alcohol and DUI-BAC over .08.

22

Erianna R. Baker, 20, 2703 Fairway Drive, was arrested at 8:30 p.m.Aug. 16 at Washington and Wilson for obstructing a peace officer.

23

G. Martinez, 46, 17 Antonio 306 N. Eastern Ave., was arrested at 12:05 p.m. Aug. 16 at 150 W. Washington for battery.

Robert C. Session, 29, 2127 Englewood, was arrested at 2:30 p.m. Aug. 17 at 14 W. Jefferson for liquor on public way.

Sjontre Q. Thompson, 21, 713 N. Hickory, was arrested at 7:44 p.m. Aug. 16 at 4th and Richards for domestic battery and obstructing justice.

Christian P. Cracco, 27, 1700 Hunter Drive, Shorewood, was arrested at 7:41 p.m. Aug. 17 at 201 W. Jefferson for liquor on public way.

Little, 26, 9 Hunter 19 Jeremy Ave., was arrested at midnight Aug. 16 at Cass and Collins for obstructing a peace officer.

Hairston, 32, 901 26 Juan Summit, and Jarvis T. Smith, 23, 400 N. Bluff, were arrested at 1:16 p.m.Aug. 17 at 14 W. Jefferson for liquor on public way.

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For more Joliet Police Blotter, visit ww.buglenewspapers.com/ policeblotter/

Shorewood Porschia L. Young, 24, of 1214 Pleasant Knoll Drive, Joliet, arrested on charges of driving under the influence and handicapped parking violation Aug. 9 at 800 Brookforest Ave.

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Michael J. Chesnul, 27, 717 Franklin, Shorewood, charged on three Will County warrants for driving while license suspended Aug. 11 at 903 W. Jefferson St.

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David Corona, 23, of 106 E. Jefferson St., Shorewood, charged with driving while license suspended at Brookforest Avenue and Center Court Aug. 13.

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Newell A. Broadway, 23, of 300 D Woodcreek Drive, Bolingbrook, charged with driving while license suspended and speeding at Route 59 and Ridge Road Aug. 15.

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Jonathan A. Luevano, 23, of 634 Michigan Drive, Romeoville, charged with possession of cannabis and drug equipment Aug. 17 at 1168 Cottage St.

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THE BUGLE/SENTINEL AUGUST 27, 2014

With rEP. nataLiE ManLEy (D-JOLIET) 98TH DISTRICT

Seniors that live on fixed incomes can’t afford unfair property tax increases

property taxes.

Seniors that live on fixed incomes can’t afford unfair property tax increases. Last year, I sponsored legislation to increase the Senior Citizen Property Tax Exemption to $5,000 for senior homeowners.

As a certified public That’s progress, but it isn’t accountant for almost 20 years, I enough. have specialized in government Government can’t continue auditing, accounting and to use taxpayer dollars as an budgeting. I’ve gone unlimited source of line-by-line through funding, especially budgets, down to the without a detailed penny, to make sure explanation for how that every dollar is the money is spent. accounted for. And, as Residents often ask a single mother, I’ve me where their tax made do with less dollars go ñ a valid because I had to. question.

Having worked Parents are baffled with large accounts, at why fees for their what I’ve found is rep. natalie manleY children’s education (D-JoLIeT) 98TH that planning ahead, DIsTrICT continue to rise and monitoring spending, their property taxes and understanding are also drastically your source of revenue is increasing simultaneously. essential in maintaining strong Often times, it seems that we financial standing. get fewer resources for such During my first term, I higher costs. This method of learned quickly that those budgeting just doesn’t work. steps weren’t being taken by Last year, I voted to cut past administrations. lawmakers’ pay, including my I was shocked to see that own, by passing a bill rejecting budgeting could go so wrong automatic pay raises. at such a high level. I signed When local communities up to become a member of a are struggling to maintain the House budgeting committee. services that they need, state I got started by backing government needs to pay legislation to improve our attention and tighten its belt, state’s policies, combing too. through expenses during It’s also our job to make the budgeting process to cut sure that the state’s policies to waste while prioritizing crucial distribute grants are transparent programs. and provide a check and It was also clear that balance system to make sure lawmakers were ignoring the funds are spent as they were needs of taxpayers. Residents intended. constantly tell me that Responsible budgeting also skyrocketing property taxes means paying the debt. For are unbearable. too long, lawmakers have been Many tell me that they are playing catch up to pay down looking to move out of state old bills, and local service because of the rising costs of providers suffer because of it. keeping the roofs over their Just like the people of Illinois, heads. our state can’t improve its To make matters worse, it financial status if we continue just doesn’t make sense to add to incur more and more debt. I unfair property tax increases voted for a bill to address delays in neighborhoods where the in payments last year. property value is stagnant or Budgeting always requires declining. making tough decisions. Cutting On a personal note, I can the fat doesn’t come easy, and relate - my home value has it won’t happen unless we decreased over the years, reevaluate our expenses. We but I continually pay more in can’t afford outdated policies

When it comes to property taxes, I recommend checking to make sure that you receive any exemptions you qualify for.

Some property tax exemptions include the general homestead exemption, the senior homestead exemption, disabled persons’ homestead exemption and the disabled veterans’ homestead exemption. and procedures, especially when they cost more.

The heart of this situation is that our community is a great place to live.

Many families want to live here, and they want to continue to be able to afford their homes and the good schools for their children.

We need to work together to ensure our area remains a good, strong area.

When it comes to property taxes, I recommend checking to make sure that you receive any exemptions you qualify for.

Some property tax exemptions include the general homestead exemption, the senior homestead exemption, disabled persons homestead exemption and the disabled veterans homestead exemption.

If you have questions about property taxes, you can call the Will County Supervisor of Assessments at 815-740-4648.

Families shouldn’t worry about losing their homes because they can’t afford to pay their property taxes.

Homeowners can’t take any more increases, especially during this difficult economic time. If you have any questions on state issues, please call my office at (815) 725-2741.

Natalie Manley State Representative, 98th District

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THE BUGLE/SENTINEL AUGUST 27, 2014

News community

Elwood: Safety changes near BNSF intermodal helping, but not enough Representatives met in Chicago for status hearing before a federal judge By nick reiher managing editor

nreiher@buglenewspapers.com @JolietILNews

While Union Pacific officials say there has been progress on the signal issue at the Walter Strawn Drive crossing, Elwood representatives said the crossing still remains unsafe, citing two crossing gate crashes in the past two days.

Representatives met in Chicago Aug. 20 for a status hearing before a federal judge for an update on safety measures discussed at the last hearing.

The hearing process has been the result of a request by interested parties to block Elwood’s ban on northbound traffic on Baseline Road in late May to cut down on truck traffic around the Walter Strawn Drive entrance to the BNSF intermodal in Elwood.A federal judge agreed to the restraining order, but Elwood since has rescinded the Baseline Road ban ordinance.

During the Aug. 20 hearing, Union Pacific counsel told the judge they and the Illinois Commerce Commission have been making progress on the signal issue, and that UP will be filing the next required form

by Friday. They are considering the possibility of adding more time, up to 10 seconds instead of three or four seconds, to the train warning to help alleviate problems with trucks coming and going into Elwood’s BNSF intermodal from hitting the crossing gates.

UP officials also noted off-duty Will County deputies now are being used to help traffic control on Illinois 53, which had become worse during construction the past two years on the Des Plaines >> idot, from page 5 on Illinois 53 south of Interstate 80. Those include increasing more visible signage for the cemetery, reviewing traffic signal timing at Walter Strawn and 53, and the addition of a stop sign with flashing signals at 53 and Mississippi, where an 8-year-old girl was killed in a

River Bridge on Interstate 55.

They said there are two marked squad cars stationed between 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., prime hours for funerals at the nearby Abraham Lincoln National Cemetery. One is positioned about a quarter mile north of the intersection.

When this deputy sees a funeral procession approaching, they said, he radios to the other deputy, positioned south of the intersection. This deputy turns on his lights and pulls across the path that trucks would take to drive through the crossing, positioning himself on the east side of the crossing. He stays there to block trucks from driving onto the crossing until the funeral procession passes.

UP officials requested that ICC staff analyze this to determine if they approve of how the plan is being implemented, and if they have any suggestions for improving it. From UP’s perspective, the process seems to work well. The parties also are looking into what would be needed to move the “Stop Here” railroad sign back 40 feet.

Officials from CenterPoint told the judge there had been no broken crossing gates since the county deputies had been stationed around there. But UP officials said there had been an incident Aug. 19, and Elwood officials said there had been

another the morning of Aug. 20, of which UP officials were unaware.

Although the presence of the deputies has helped cut down the number of trucks that have been disrupted the funeral processions, Elwood Police Chief Fred Hayes said after the hearing that trucks continue to cut off mourners despite the police presence. Most important, he added, the officers are not regulating traffic at the crossing, which was the reason why CenterPoint wanted them stationed there.

Another point of contention in the federal hearing process has been Elwood’s refusal thus far to give CenterPoint requested information by Sept.

15. CenterPoint officials hoped they could get the information without having to go through the formal discovery process, which would delay the situation.

UP officials also said they hoped Elwood would provide the information CenterPoint requested so that depositions would not have to be taken.

Elwood representatives at the hearing said If Elwood is compelled to comply with CenterPoint’s discovery request, then Elwood will need to submit its own request for discovery to CenterPoint, which would delay things further.

CenterPoint attorney Michael Scotti replied that what CenterPoint has asked for is very similar to what UP asked for from the Illinois Department of Transportation and the ICC. He also suggested that if Elwood can provide their reports in two weeks, rather than a month, then CenterPoint will review over the next two weeks and conclude the matter earlier than would otherwise be necessary.

The hearing will continue Oct. 7.

traffic accident in March, Borggren said the state also is considering traffic signals at Hoff Road, the entrance to the national cemetery, and the addition of crossing gates that would close off traffic to all four quadrants at the intersection.

She said a new right-turn only lane from southbound 53 to westbound Hoff will be added

to help separate the truck traffic from funeral processions.

She also hoped, as many locals do, that the recent completion of the reconstruction of the Des Plaines River Bridge on Interstate 55 will again allow truckers to safely use the Arsenal Road interchange opened specifically in 2012 to handle the intermodal traffic.

More Info

The hearing process has been the result of a request by interested parties to block Elwood’s ban on northbound traffic on Baseline Road in late May to cut down on truck traffic around the Walter Strawn Drive entrance to the BNSF intermodal in Elwood.

News

THE BUGLE/SENTINEL AUGUST 27, 2014

9

she’s

golden

JTHS’ McCarthy is 2014 Athena Award Recipient Editor’s note: the Joliet Bugle is working with the Joliet Region Chamber of Commerce & industry this year on promoting the chamber’s 100th anniversary.

JTHS Superintendent Cheryl McCarthy learned that she is the 2014 Joliet Region Chamber of Commerce and Industry’s Athena Award recipient during a recent surprise visit.

Joliet Chamber Executive Vice President Mary Jaworski presented the surprise announcement to McCarthy, who was joined by the Chamber’s Director of Member Events Kelly Baltas, JTHS Board of Education members, administrators and family.

TheAthenaAward is presented annually to an area leader who demonstrates professional excellence, community service and actively assists women in realizing their full leadership potential.

McCarthy has served Joliet Township High School throughout her entire career.

She started at Joliet West High School in 1986 as a math teacher and in 1996 she was promoted to Division Chair of the Math

“On behalf of the Chamber, the Board of Directors and the Council for Working we congratulate Dr. Cheryl McCarthy on being selected as the 2014 Athena Award Recipient,” said Jaworski. “Dr. McCarthy is an outstanding example of a mentor and works tirelessly to promote and encourage professional growth in both and women and men. Serving as the Co-Chair of the Chamber’s Education Committee, she has provided both wisdom and leadership to the committee with outstanding results.” and Sciences Department.

In 2001, she served as Assistant Principal for Support Operations before becoming principal in 2002 and Assistant Superintendent for Educational Services in 2010. She is the first female superintendent in the history of Joliet Township High School.

As superintendent, McCarthy has led the implementation of the 1:1 computing Initiative, which provides netbook

computers to all JTHS students.

She has been instrumental in the implementation of the district’s Strategic Plan since its inception and works tirelessly to move initiatives forward to continuously improve student performance and make JTHS a school of choice.

Community involvement and professional development are key tenants to McCarthy’s approach to leadership.

McCarthy holds leadership

roles within the Joliet Region Chamber of Commerce & Industry, Rotary Club of Joliet, United Way of Will County, Three Rivers Educational Partnership for Manufacturing, and Three Rivers Educational Employment System, amongst many others.

She is a member of the Zonta Club of Joliet, Joliet Region Interfaith Education Council; Leading Educational Alignment and Planning; Illinois Association of School Administrators; Learning Forward; National Association for Supervision and Curriculum Development; Three Rivers Education Partnership; Will County K-12 School Safety Advisory Task Force; and Chicagoland Speedway R.A.C.E. Committee, to name a few.

“On behalf of the Chamber, the Board of Directors and the Council for Working we

photo CouRteSY of Joliet toWNShip high SChoolS

Cheryl McCarthy, center, Joliet Township High Schools superintendent, receives news of her 2014 Athena Award from Joliet Chamber Executive Vice President Mary Jaworski, left, and Director of Member Events Kelly Baltas.

congratulate Dr. Cheryl McCarthy on being selected as the 2014 Athena Award Recipient,” said Jaworski. “Dr. McCarthy is an outstanding example of a mentor and works tirelessly to promote and encourage professional growth in both and women and men.

Serving as the Co-Chair of the Chamber’s Education Committee, she has provided both wisdom and leadership to the committee with outstanding results.”

McCarthy will be honored as the Athena Award recipient at the annual Athena Luncheon Wednesday, Sept. 17, at the Patrick Haley Mansion.

10

THE BUGLE/SENTINEL AUGUST 27, 2014

Schools

Governors State University

GSU welcomes 1st ever Freshmen class University makes history by becoming 4-year university

By Rex Robinson For the bugle

sweditor@buglenewspapers.com @JolietILNews

As graduation day at Plainfield East High School approached this past spring, Andreana Johnson had narrowed her choices down to two – attend Concordia University Chicago in River Forest, or be among the first freshmen to attend Governors State University in University Park.

In the end, the 18-year-old

Plainfield resident’s decision to attend GSU was a simple one, she said.

“I wanted to be a part of what they had to offer here because they are welcoming the first year of undergrads. They are making history, and I’m very glad to be a part of that,” Johnson said.

Johnson is among the more than 235 freshmen starting their college careers at GSU since the university first opened in 1969. Up until this year, GSU has been a transfer university, offering only junior and senior

under grad programs and graduate programs. Johnson also is among the more than 100 freshmen and some other transfer students who will be living in Prairie Place, the new on-campus residence at GSU. That too is a first for GSU as the university has never had oncampus housing for students until this year.

Johnson, her fellow freshmen, dual-degree students entering the university from one of the region’s many junior colleges, GSU administrators, faculty and staff as well as local dignitaries were all on hand Friday for a day of festivities to mark the historic event, referred to by GSU officials as “Trans4mation.”

“It’s a very exciting day,” GSU President Elaine P. Maimon said just before the special convocation ceremony got underway in the university’s Center for the Performing Arts.

“It’s like working on a play, and now it’s opening night. We are proud to be offering Illinois something special and different in higher education.”

Freshmen,she added,will have the “uncommon experience of being taught by full-time faculty members rather than teaching assistants. That’s not often the case in public universities.”

Three of those university professors will be living in the new on-campus residence which features two-bedroom apartments, with a mix of single and double occupancy bedrooms, suites as well as four-bedroom apartments, kitchens on each floor and other amenities.

Prairie Place is based on the Yale College House system model by which full-time faculty members living in the residence provide intellectual

leadership to residential areas focusing on three themes: civic engagement, global citizenship and sustainability, according to Maimon.

Johnson and some of the other freshmen have been on campus for the past two weeks going through a special program designed to get them accustomed to the university experience. “It’s like a fun boot camp,” Maimon explained.

Johnson said the extra time helped her to get to know faculty, staff and other students as well as get to know her way around campus.

Bruce Friefeld has been on the board of GSU since 1996 and said he has never seen such a huge change at the university.

“This is a really big deal,” said Friefeld, also chief of staff for the Will County Board. “It’s a game-changer for GSU.” Planning for both the move to become a four-year university and the new on-campus living facility has taken years. Maimon >> see FRESHMEN | page 21

tAKe 5

THE BUGLE/SENTINEL AUGUST 27, 2014

Aries

MArCh 21 TO APriL 20

Go for the gold. With plenty of energy in reserve, there’s no reason to delay any activities you want to begin this week. Giving into whims or flights of fancy could lead you to exciting new places and adventure.

gemini

M AY 2 2 T O J U N e 2 1

Do unto others as you would have them do unto you.

Showing a little kindness and courtesy to everyone you encounter, even complete strangers, will do wonders towards brightening your week. Don’t leave debts unpaid.

leo

J U LY 2 3 T O A U g U S T 2 1

Let your creative juices flow. Focus your energies on doing something constructive in the week ahead, whatever it may be. Where relationships are concerned, don’t dwell on shortcomings or you may start to ignore all the positive

Across

Down

1 CiTY Se OF MiLAN 5 STATiON OCCUPANT 8 exTeNDeD STAYS 14 DePT. WiTh A SUN ON iTS SeAL 15 DiSh MADe iN AN OveN CALLeD AN iMU 16 WiTh 66-ACrOSS, AUThOr OF ThiS PUzzLe’S qUOTe 17 SOMe MUSeUM WOrk 18 STArT OF A qUOTe 20 SUPer STArS? 22 SiTTiNg SeTTiNg 23 qUOTe, PArT 2 25 “heAr, heAr!” 26 SeLF-ObSeSSeD SOrT 29 grUb 31 LegAL APPUrTeNANCe? 32 bArbArY __ 33 MeDiUM 37 riCh DeSSerT 39 “hOLD iT!” 40 qUOTe, PArT 3 42 “... ‘TiS A PAgeANT / TO keeP __ FALSe gAze”: “OTheLLO” 43 __ COFFee 45 TheY CAN be WOUND UP 47 greeN ShADe 48 hOSP. reADOUT 50 iNCeNTiveS TO COOPerATe 51 Tee SizeS: Abbr.

52 “iT’S __!”: bALLgAMe CrY 54 qUOTe, PArT 4 58 gOeS righT, e.g.

60 iT SOMeTiMeS reSULTS iN A DOUbLe PLAY 61 eND OF The qUOTe 65 DOMiNiON 66 See 16-ACrOSS 67 NYC SUbWAY OverSeer 68 Three-POiNT b, SAY 69 ShAkeSPeAreAN TiTLe ChArACTer 70 hANDY SkiLL FOr A gAMbLer? 71 LeAve iN

1 briTiSh SiNger/ SONgWriTer LeWiS 2 SOUrCe OF SOMe riNgS 3 PrObe, WiTh “iNTO” 4 FeDS CONCerNeD WiTh reTUrNS 5 PrO CONCerNeD WiTh reTUrNS 6 exPreSSiONS OF WONDer 7 TWO-FigUre SCULPTUre 8 DrAMATiC reveLATiONS 9 MeDievAL heLMeT 10 NOveL ThAT begiNS iN The MArqUeSAS iSLANDS 11 bUg FOr PAYMeNT 12 MeMber OF The geNUS ANgUiLLA 13 NOT STrAighT 19 LegiON 21 riChArD OF “A SUMMer PLACe” 24 WOrrY 26 kUrDiSh reLATive 27 __ Nerve 28 hAMMer PArTS 30 MOre JArgONY 33 SALTY bAgFUL 34 “DON JUAN DeMArCO” SeTTiNg 35 biT OF CheCkPOiNT DeCePTiON

36 OrgAN ThAT MAY be CAUghT 38 rUrAL-UrbAN TrANSiTiON AreA 41 SeNT bY 44 MiSSiONArY’S TArgeT 46 geM MiNeD MOSTLY iN AUSTrALiA 49 ALL SMiLeS 53 hbO SerieS SeT iN NeW OrLeANS 55 greeNLAND NATive 56 “ALLY MCbeAL” LAWYer 57 WeLCOMe 58 D-DAY CiTY 59 YOrk eT AL.: Abbr.

61 LegAL Org. 62 ONe OF The POOr CLAreS 63 MeMOrAbLe giANT 64 OrThODONTiST’S CONCerN Tribune Content Agency 2014

librA

SePTeMber 24 TO OCTOber 23

Enthusiasm is the key. Even the most mundane tasks can be enjoyable if you approach them with a positive attitude. A special someone may find inventive and innovative ways to arouse your interest in the week ahead.

sAgittArius

NOveMber 23 TO DeCeMber 22

Prepare for scrutiny. Whether you decide to paint a masterpiece or vegetate on the couch, someone could be rating your performance this week. Make a good impression by attempting something great.

AquArius

JANUArY 21 TO FebrUArY 19

Indulge your imagination. With a bit of encouragement, your artistic side is likely to emerge in the week ahead and allow you to accomplish any task with a bit of flair. A loved one may provide all the inspiration you need to get motivated.

Sudoku

tAurus

A P r i L 2 1 T O M AY 2 1

he mind needs exercise just as much as the body. Find ways to sharpen your mental faculties and keep your brain in tip top shape for the approaching work week. Your compassion and understanding can help pull a loved one out of a rut.

cAncer

J U N e 2 2 T O J U LY 2 2

Enjoy tea for two. Spend quality time with a loved one this week by indulging in shared interests or embarking on a new project together. Business matters should be put on the back burner until tomorrow.

virgo

AUgUST 22 TO SePTeMber 23

Follow the leader. Pay attention to the ideas and whims of another and see where it takes you in the week ahead.

You’ll be far more satisfied by exploring the unknown rather than sticking to the same old dull routines.

scorpio

OCTOber 24 TO NOveMber 22

Heed the call of the great outdoors. You’ll be at the top of your game this week when basking under the summer sun. Enjoy a backyard barbeque, visit the pool, or go take a walk in the woods. Remember that the best things in life are free.

cApricorn

DeCeMber 23 TO JANUArY 20

Follow your heart, not your head this week. You may find someone else’s ideas silly or counterproductive, but if you just give it a chance you might find a good value. You don’t always have to adhere to logic to enjoy the best results.

pisces

FebrUArY 20 TO MArCh 20

Play to win. Whether in matters of business or on the tennis court your competitive nature will rise to the forefront this week. Try to keep all dealings on a friendly level, as tempers could flare quickly over trivial issues.

Jumble

PreviouS Puzzle’S anSwerS

PreviouS Puzzle’S anSwerS

PreviouS Puzzle’S anSwerS

Jumbles:

• JOUST • FANCY • PAYOFF • UNSOLD

Answer:

WhAT The rUNNer ATe beFOre The big rACe -“FAST” FOOD

11

12

THE BUGLE/SENTINEL AUGUST 27, 2014

Bugle Kids

AUGUST 27, 2014

14

Joliet Catholic ACADEMY OFFENSE The Hilltoppers lost a lot of yards with the graduation of running back Mike Ivlow and quarterback Nick Morrison, but as JCA does so often, the team is looking for the next man up.

Nick Borgra, who played wing opposite of Ivlow last year, returns to be the guy this season, while a pair of juniors – Harold Davis and Michael Johnson – are competing for the other wing back. Davis is no stranger to the varsity sports bright lights, as he was one of the leaders on the Hilltoppers’ basketball team

that won regionals last year. Drew Voss returns at fullback along with Jordan Green.

Quarterback Cade Earl started games in the middle of the season last year when Morrison was out with an injury and that has helped him get ready for this season as he takes the reigns this year.

On the line, Tyler Witt and Chase Krumviede were both starters and Ze’Veyon Furcron played in several games and got a lot of experience.

Between Earl and the line, JCA has several key players who were forced into action a year ago because of injury and while it was a scramble a

year ago, it is now a benefit.

DEFENSE Witt, Krumveide and Furcron will see time in the trenches on both sides of the ball, playing defensive line as well Ken Aguirre and Joe Frescura.

The Hilltoppers return linebackers Brad Krisch and Mike Gruben and add Peter Riccolo, who saw game action last year.

Brandon Bolek returns to anchor the defensive secondary. He will be joined by Brandon Holy and converted running back Marty Krizka.

OVERALL Joliet Catholic has a lot of talent again this season, just not very much depth this year.

“What we have coming back is a very strong nucleus of players,” JCA coach Dan Sharp said. “Our only negative here is numbers are much smaller than they ever have been. Our coaches have to be pretty creative to get what we need done and keep everyone healthy.”

With several players having to play both sides of the ball, Sharp said health will be the biggest factor this season to determine success or not.

“When you lose a two-way player, it is like you are losing two guys,” Sharp said. “So, we have to stay healthy.”

-compiled by Mark Gregory

2014 Schedule Aug. 29 – Providence., 7:30 p.m. (won 42-35) Sept. 5 – @ Wheaton N., 7:30 p.m. (dnp) Sept. 12 – @ Carmel, 7:30 p.m. (won 37-14) Sept. 19 – St. viator, 7:30 p.m. (won 35-20) Sept. 26 – @ marian, 7:30 p.m. (won 42-0) Oct. 3 – marian cath., 7:30 p.m. (lost 28-18) Oct. 11 – @ nazareth, 1:30 p.m. (dnp) Oct. 17 – benet, 7:30 p.m. (won 36-0) Oct. 24 – Marist, 7:30 p.m.

(Won 49-27)

Photo By Mark Gregory

Nick Borgra will be the feature back for JCA this season.

AUGUST 27, 2014

Joliet CENTRAL OFFENSE The Steelmen will be looking at several new players at the skill positions, and it won’t get any more new than freshman quarterback Zach Wisneski.

“He is going to be special,” said Joliet Central coach Brett Boyter. “He has a very good arm and is a very smart player and it is amazing how much he has picked up already.”

Offensively, Central returns running back/fullback Tommie Sherman and wide receiver Josh Morris, while center Ezequiel Castro anchors the line along with newcomers Jasyn Hurt, Sal Ruiz and Pablo Reyes.

Michael Robinson will be at running back, while Robert Davis will be at receiver at corner back.

DEFENSE On defense, Jake Klima , Alex Ruettiger and Matt Key will play linebacker, while Malek Harden moves to safety. Aarys Stallings will play corner along with Steven Brown-Washington and Deonta Brown, while James Budrick is at defensive end.

OVERALL Boyter believes this can be the “best team on the field since our program split from Joliet Township five years ago.”

“The big difference is that this year the guys really made a commitment to the weight room and the off season,” Boyter said.

“Our guys are so far ahead this year of where we have been in the past and that is because of that commitment. It has been exciting in how far we have come in a short time.”

Playing in the loaded SWSC, makes it hard for Central to show the growth it has had over the years.

“Maybe it would be easier

Photo By Mark Gregory

Aarys Stallings (12) is one of the talented young players for the Steelmen this season.

for the public to see the improvement, but the team looks at it as something exciting that we can play against the top teams week in and week out,” Boyter said.

What the Steelmen find exciting is the fact that they will play a home night game at Central this season for the first time in the 113 years of the school.

“We want this to be the norm, not the exception,” Boyter said.

“God made high school football to be played Friday night. It has been very motivating for the kids knowing this game is coming. It will be a great night, not only for our kids and our school, but for the community.”

-compiled by Mark Gregory

2014 Schedule Aug. 29 – thornridge, 6:30 p.m.

(DNP) Sept. 6 – @ rich south 12 p.m.

(DNP) Sept. 13 – bolingbrook, 1 p.m.

(Lost 50-0) Sept. 19 – @ homewood-f., 7:30 p.m. (lost 49-0) Sept. 27 – sandburg, 1 p.m. (lost 40-0) Oct. 3 – @ Stagg, 7 p.m.

(Lost 40-0) Oct. 10 – @ lockport, 7 p.m. (lost 44-22) Oct. 18 – joliet west, 1 p.m.

(Lost 50-0) Oct. 24 – @ lincoln-way e., 7:30 p.m. (lost 42-8)

15

16

AUGUST 27, 2014

AUGUST 27, 2014

17

joliet west OFFENSE Skill-wise, Joliet West lost a ton of fire power in quarterback Anthony DiNardo (1,898 yards, 20 TDs), wide receiver Niko Messino (53 catches, 879 yards, 9 TDs) and a host of runners.

Junior Alex Tibble is expected to take the QB reigns as DiNardo’s replacement.

Senior wide receiver Christian Griswold (5-10, 175) will return to catch passes from whoever wins the QB job.

Up front, the Tigers do return their entire offensive line in seniors Ethan Bohanek (6-1, 245), Rick Dove (6-1, 265), Ray Betancourt (6-1, 235), Jarrale Daniels (6-1, 265) and Scotty Blankenship (6-2, 275). The Tigers put up 277 points last year.

DEFENSE Defensively, West brings back

four seniors in Houston Thomas, a 5-10, 265-pound defensive lineman, Nolan Morrow, a 6-2, 220-pound defensive end, Zack Dulski, a 5-11, 185 pound linebacker and Collin Talkie, a 6-1, 80-pound free safety.

They will look to help improve the defense, which allowed 293 points last year.

OVERALL Joliet West was 3-6 last season and the SouthWest Suburban Conference has not gotten an easier.

Even with all the big boys left up front, the Tigers are in need of finding the skill position players to take advantage of all the work being done in the trenches.

Claiming their two nonconfernece games will be key, as it is hard to go from 3-6 to 6-3 in the SWSC Blue with the

2014 sChEduLE AUG. 29 – @ Tinley PArk, 7 P.m. (dnP) SePT. 6 – chicAGo kinG 12 P.m. (won 35-6) SePT. 13 – homewood-f., 12 P.m. (loST 48-14) SePT. 19 – @ SAndbUrG, 7:15 P.m. (loST 36-28) SePT. 27 – bolinGbrook, 12 P.m. (loST 30-6) ocT. 3 – @ lincoln-wAy e., 7 P.m. (loST 35-28) ocT. 10 – STAGG, 6:30 P.m. (loST 61-35) ocT. 18 – @ jolieT cenTrAl, 1 P.m. (won 50-0) ocT. 24 – @ lockPorT, 7 P.m. (loST 49-31) likes of Bolingbrook, HomewoodFlossmoor and Lincoln-Way East in the division.

-compiled by Mark Gregory

Photo By Mark Gregory

alex tibble is expected to be the new quarterback for Joliet West.

plainfielD eaSt

lockport OFFENSE A new coach brings new looks this season as Lockport will feature a spread offense that looks to run the football with new boss Dan Starkey.

Senior Jeremy Quade, who saw time at quarterback last year and junior Deiondre Taylor, a converted running back, are competing at quarterback. The plan is for both to have an impact on the field in some way.

Whoever is under center will be protected by a line led by 6-foot, 4-inch, 315-pound junior Matt Chmielewski and senior Chris Murino.

Cameron Credit, Zac Wright and Matt Skobel will see time in the backfield, while senior Sean Kelley returns at wide receiver.

Cory Savage returns at fullback.

Lockport will have to replace would-be three-year starter Tyler Johnson at both running back and linebacker after he tore an ACL during the summer.

DEFENSE Carl Strom, Jake Divita and

>> see loCKport | page 19

q & a with local athletes

featUring

Daniel Jackson Football

Who do you like to follow?

I like to follow Adidas to see all the things they come up with. My favorite person is probably Clifton Garrett. I’ve followed Clifton for a while. He still hasn’t given me a follow back. So, Clifton, if you see this, give me a follow back!

Why do you like to follow Clifton?

To me, Clifton came from the Plainfield area and I’m trying to get to where he was and be as recognized as he was. Coming from a small town and I want Plainfield to be known as a town that produces good football players. do you follow a lot of future Western Michigan teammates?

I follow a lot of guys from the class of 2015. It is good to start getting to know the family at Western Michigan.

Photo By Mark Gregory

dan starkey is in as new head coach at Lockport.

AUGUST 27, 2014

18

minooka OFFENSE Any time you return a running back like the Indians’ Nate Gunn, the team will always be in contention.

In a conference such as the Southwest Prairie Conference where teams can go from 3-6 to 6-3 in one season, Minooka is looking to ride its elite running back to playoff contention.

The Indians will also have a familiar last name at the quarterback position, as sophomore Johnny Carnagio will be under center this season.

Joining Carnagio and Gunn in the backfield will be returning running back Victor Turpin.

James Lang returns to anchor the Indians’ offensive line.

DEFENSE On defense, linebacker Jeff Klank returns after being the leading tackler for Minooka last season with 89 total tackles (43

solo).

Brad Daniel returns on the defensive line and Cameron Dirck will lead the secondary.

Blake Parzych, a 6-foot, 3-inch, 220 pound defensive lineman joins the team, as does junior linebacker Carson Oughton.

OVERALL With a young quarterback and newcomers being asked to step up, Minooka coach Paul Forsythe says overall experience will be a weakness of the Indians this season, but that team chemistry will be one of the strengths of the squad.

The goal for Minooka this season is to win the Southwest Prairie Conference and get back in the postseason mix.

The last time the Indians were in the playoffs was the 2011-12 season.

Like it has the last two

ESCC PREVIEW Another loaded season with several schools

Aug. 29 – Morris, 7 p.m. (won 21-14) Sept. 5 – @ providence, 7:30 p.m. (lost 38-17) Sept. 12 – @ romeoville, 7 p.m.

(Lost 34-21) Sept. 19 – oswego, 7 p.m.

(Lost 41-13) Sept. 26 – plainfield c., 7 p.m.

(Won 48-7) Oct. 3 – @ plainfield east, 7 p.m.

(Lost 37-27) Oct. 10 – @ plainfield s., 7 p.m. (lost 41-37) Oct. 17 – oswego east, 7 p.m.

(Lost 44-0) Oct. 24 – @ plainfield n., 7 p.m.

(Won 52-21) Photo By Mark Gregory

years, Minooka will get well prepared for the league season, as it opens with Morris and Providence Catholic.

-compiled by Mark Gregory

to replace a transferred star is Marist. The Redhawks were a state semifinalst last year and graduated a lot of players to graduation and saw Academy as the Road Runners bring D-I recruit Flynn Nagel transfer from Marist to Lemont. back 14 starters from St. Pat’s saw a lot of last season’s playoffplayers leave to graduation qualifying team. from last season’s team, The talent starts up but will return senior threefront with four returning year starting quarterback offensive linemen in Jack Zachary Fuller.

Shutack, senior Michael Carmelwill return a pair of Owens plus senior studs in offensive lineman twins Jon and Patrick Sean Foster and junior tight Kilcommons. end/defensive end Noah Ivory Kelly-Martin and Wide Right Turner, but lost a lot on both wide receiver Julian Mark Gregory sides of the ball.

Love will key the skill St. Viator will rely on 12 returning positions. Love will also play in the defensive secondary and defensive starters from last season’s team, lineman Devonte Dunn will key that hoping the experience can equate to wins. side of the ball.

Head coach Jerry Verde keeps A team that, like Benet, looks

in contention for conference title Historically one of the toughest leagues in the state of Illinois, the East Suburban Catholic Conference is the same this season – maybe even tougher than the past with the addition of Marian Central Catholic.

Locally, Joliet Catholic Academy will look to battle historically low numbers, but have the talent to compete in the ESCC. Benet will look to replace Iowa-bound quarterback Jack Beneventi, who transferred to Fenwick over the summer Niles Notre Dame needs to replace a star of its own in graduated running back Chris James. The Dons defense should keep them in games with a solid defensive line.

The early favorite is Nazareth

2014 Schedule

James Lang is back to anchor the Minooka offensive line this season.

2013 Standings Team

Joliet Catholic Marist Nazareth St. Patrick Notre Dame Benet St. Viator Carmel Marian

conference overall points won lost won lost for against 6 4 4 4 3 3 2 2 0

working on getting Marian Catholic back to a contender and this season will look promising with a young group of talent.

New to the ESCC this season is Marian CentralCatholic,who defected from the Suburban Christian Blue and will make a loaded conference even more loaded. The Hurricanes posted a 5-2 record a year ago, placing

1 2 2 2 3 3 4 5 6

10 9 8 7 7 6 5 2 2

2 4 3 4 4 4 4 7 7

484 486 346 287 290 252 265 169 171

181 345 205 280 193 214 208 213 276

second in the league to Class 5A state champion Montini Catholic. Marian Central scored nearly 40 points per game a year ago and return eight offensive starters, including senior quarterback Billy Bahl, a Miami (Ohio) recruit. Five defensive starters are back from a team that allowed 20

>> see ESCC | page 20

AUGUST 27, 2014

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SouthWest suburban blue preview Bolingbrook, H-F, Lincoln-Way East lead way Since its inception, the SouthWest Suburban Conference Blue Division has been a league that has featured a top and bottom and not much in the middle.

That may change this season as some of the teams try and climb back up the ladder.

Bolingbrook will again be the king of the conference, as the Raiders feature six Division-I caliber athletes on the defensive side of the ball, making the defense possibly as talented as the state-title group of 2011. Brothers Jacob and Julian Huff, Tuf Borland and Micah DewTreadway lead the pack.

Offensively, the biggest new addition to the team may be offensive coordinator Dan Darlington, who will look to shake up a Raider offense that has always been about ball control.

Quarterback Quincy Woods returns, but is listed on the roster solely as a wide receiver.

for the program’s first win.

Homewood-Floosmoor returns 11 starters from a season ago and should be the key rival to Bolingbrook this Locally, Lockport has season. The Vikings new faces and a new home have been a solid team this season. Dan Starkey the last few years comes over from New waiting for Bolingbrook Trier and will bring a runor Lincoln-Way East to oriented, spread offense give an inch at the top. to the new turf at Lockport.

Like the Huffs at The Porters will need to Bolingbrook, H-F replace Tyler Johnson, who features a pair of twins was to start and running Wide Right as juniors DeVonte back and linebacker, but Mark Gregory and Deante Harleytorn an ACL this summer.

Hampton will share Joliet West lost a ton on the offensive side of the ball when it carries in the backfield. They will comes to skill positions. The whole do it behind 6-foot, 4-inch, 285 offensive line is back, but the Tigers pound offensive lineman Desmond need to find some weapons on Bland.

Lincoln-Way East will again be offense and defense to make this a tough win in the SWSC as the season a success.

Like he has the last few years, Griffins look to keep its streak of Bret Boyter has a small but hungry making the playoffs every year of group at Joliet Central. The Steelmen existence alive.

Senior signal caller Mike Weller play hard every snap of every game, but the lack of depth makes it hard returns to pace the offense, while to retool in the SWSC. Central will senior linebacker Luke Epich will look to its non-conference season key the Griffin defense.

>> LOCKPORT, from page 17

2014 Schedule

Jordan Pollard will key the Lockport defensive line and Taylor O’Donnell is back at linebacker.

Starkey says the defensive backfield will be “raw and inexperienced.”

Aug. 29 – @ Downers n., 7:30 p.m.

(Lost 45-0) Sept. 5 – lake park 7 p.m. (lost 19-7) Sept. 12 – @ Sandburg, 7 p.m.

(Lost 28-14) Sept. 19 – lincoln-way e., 7:15 p.m. (lost 50-6) Sept. 26 – @ stagg, 7 p.m.

(Won 25-21) Oct. 3 – bolingbrook, 7 p.m.

(Lost 24-3) Oct. 10 – joliet central, 7 p.m.

(Won 42-22) Oct. 17 – @ homewood-f, 7 p.m.

(Lost 54-14) Oct. 24 – joliet west, 7 p.m.

(Won 49-31)

OVERALL The Porters bring in head coach Dan Starkey from New Trier, where he went 22-18 from 2010-13, guiding the Trevians to the playoffs each season.

The Porters were 3-6 a year ago and Starkey looks to return them to the glory days when they were back-to-back Class 8A state championships in 2002 and ’03.

“We will be a spread offense, but we want to pound the football,” Starkey said. “We want to run the ball, but we also want to be able to take what the defense gives us and play great defense and great special teams.”

Not only will Lockport fans

be abuzz over the new system and new coach, one look at the stadium and the new turf field will have Porter nation excited.

Lockport breaks in the new field in week two when it hosts Lake Park.

-compiled by Mark Gregory

2013 Standings Team

Bolingbrook Homewood-Flossmoor Lincoln-Way East Sandburg Lockport Stagg Joliet West Joliet Central

conference overall points won lost won lost for against 7 6 5 4 3 2 1 0

Sandburg returns only six starters from last season and only a pair on defense. One of those back is senior linebacker Graham Level (6-foot, 200 pounds).

Senior place kicker/punter Jon Milazzo has the leg to win a tight game late for the Eagles.

Mark’s Picks 1. Bolingbrook – Just too much on defense here.

2. Homewood-Flossmoor – This is their year to climb near the

0 1 2 3 4 5 6 7

10 9 9 5 3 4 3 0

1 2 3 5 6 5 6 9

336 414 359 224 160 200 277 37

88 176 171 266 294 226 293 409

top again.

3. Lincoln-Way East – Still an elite team.

4. Lockport – It’s hard to rebuild in the SWSC, but easier when opponents lose a lot.

5. Joliet West – Have to find skill players to work behind OL. 6. Sandburg – Just too much to replace in one year. Will be back next year.

7. Joliet Central – Great coach, great kids, just low numbers hurt the Steelmen.

AUGUST 27, 2014

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Here are Scott Taylor’s and Mark Gregory’s predictions for the 2014 high school football season.

toughest first two games in the state, so they should be prepared for the rest of the season.

improved. The question will be if they can get above .500, and I think they can.

Top Team

Surprise Team

Top Offensive Player

Mark: Bolingbrook The Raiders defense is absolutely stacked this season. With brothers Julian and Jacob Huff back with Tuf Borland and Micah Dew-Treadway, the Bolingbrook D may be better this season than it was during the Class 8A championship team in 2011.

The Bolingbrook offense will be reshuffled this season with starting QB Quincy Woods moving to WR and a host of new running backs, but the Raiders have the perfect person in place to help with that as IHSA legendary coach Dan Darlington joins the staff and will be calling offensive plays this season. scott: Maine South Mark always seems to go with the Raiders or JCA. I picked the Raiders last year, but am going back to Maine South this year. The Hawks have a lot of talent coming back this year, particularly on offense. They always seem to have a solid defense, so that shouldn’t be a problem. And, they play the

Mark: Minooka I picked the Indians as my surprise team last season and I am doubling down this year.

After some issues at the QB last season got worked out, Minooka scuffled to a 3-6 season. Nate Gunn has emerged as one of the top running backs in the area and has the opportunity to become one of the state’s best as well.

A new quarterback is in the fold this season in Johnny Carnagio and he could make Minooka a threat to win the SPC. scott: Westmont After a difficult year last year, I feel the Sentinels are set up to have a much better season this year. The schedule isn’t easy, but in coach Otto Zeman’s last year, and in another year in his system, they should have something to play for and be much improved.

Zeman has high praise for quarterback Kyle Domin and he thinks the defense is much

Mark: Nate Gunn, Minooka The aforementioned Gunn is as imposing of a runner as the area has seen, standing 6-foot-1 and weighing 210 pounds.

He tallied 867 yards and 14 touchdowns a year ago and could feast on SPC defenses this season and run well over 1,000 yards on the season. scott: Chuck Hunter, Romeoville Hunter might not be the top offensive recruit in our coverage area, but he poses a matchup problem for whatever corner goes up against him. He broke through last year with a 1,000-yard season and that could be even higher this year with his combination of speed and athleticism.

Top Defensive Player Mark: Tuf Borland, Bolingbrook Entering his junior season, Borland already has two years under his belt as a varsity starter. He was the team’s top tackler last season,

this season to the tune of 1,000 yards or better. scott: Brian Collis, Maine South Well, I guess Mark doesn’t know that football does take place north of I-88. But Brian Collis, a junior, is back for his second year as starting quarterback and I expect big improvements for him in year two.

It also helps that he has a plethora of skill players around him.

with 101 total tackles. He had 10 tackles for loss, one sack, five pass break-ups and two interceptions.

With a great cast around him, Borland will be free to wreak havoc again this season. scott: Micah Dew-Treadway, Bolingbrook Yes, Borland is going to be in the running for our Player of the Year award and will have tons of tackles, but part of that will be thanks to Dew-Treadway. The Notre Dame recruit will plug up the line of scrimmage and force to linemen to block him, which opens up the linebackers like Borland to make plays.

Surprise Player Mark: Deiondre Taylor, Lockport A talented player, Taylor is a converted running back to a possible quarterback spot this year.

Wherever he plays, Taylor is sure to have an impact in the new-look Lockport offense. scott: Danny Saracco, Plainfield South He might not surprise his opponents this year, but he will likely surprise plenty of other people across the area, and perhaps state.

With Louisiana State-bound Clifton Garrett getting all the hype last year, it was Saracco, a sophomore, who led the team in tackles. He is now the leader of the defense in his junior year.

Breakout Player Mark: Gil Whitaker, Romeoville Last season, Whitaker put up maybe the quietest 800-yard season in the area, if not the state. His yards last season came while sharing carries with the now graduated Miguel Ford. While Ford was able to juke defenders and the Spartan passing game could put up highlights, Whitaker earned his yards between the tackles and should do the same

southwest prairie PREVIEW Can Oswego be defeated?

Oswego made it three straight undefeated conference championships last year, sweeping through the SPC.

Taylor’s Take 1. Plainfield East - Someone is due to pass up Oswego, and the Bengals have the best chance to do so.

2. oswego - The Panthers will again be tough to beat. I don’t see any team coming into Panther Country to win, but they have to go

>> esCC, from page 18 points per game a year ago.

Mark’s Picks 1. nazareth academy – the Road

expected to bounce back this year and compete for a playoff spot.

6. Plainfield Central to Plainfield East this The Wildcats have a lot of year in what may be the ground to make up from SPC title game. last year, but there are a 3. romeoville - With lot of returners this year experienced skill players who likely feel they have back, the key for the something to prove.

Spartans may be at the 7. Plainfield south line of scrimmage.

- You can’t rule out the 4. Plainfield north - If Cougars, as the potential football is won at the line tayLor’s taKE to reload is there. of scrimmage, the Tigers SCott tayloR 8. oswego East - The may be in the middle of a Wolves have some key title race.

5. Minooka - The Indians are returners back, but they will need to

Runners have too much back not to make them a preseason favorite.

2. Joliet Catholic – If the Hilltoppers stay healthy, their starters can go toe-to-toe with

the league.

3. Marian Central – I wouldn’t be shocked if the newcomers win the ESCC, but I’ll give them a year to get used to it.

4. notre dame – The Dons will

2013 standinGs

TeAm

oSweGo PlAinfield SoUTh oSweGo eAST PlAinfield eAST romeoville minookA PlAinfield norTh PlAinfield cenTrAl

conference overAll PoinTS won loST won loST for against 7 5 4 4 4 2 2 0

show that last year is no fluke. be right in the thick of things this season.

5. Benet – The Redwings were not just a one-man team.

6. Carmel – Always a viable opponent.

0 2 3 3 3 5 5 7

9 6 7 6 6 3 3 0

3 4 4 4 4 6 6 9

395 306 286 207 230 236 245 81

194 276 229 208 225 277 223 402

-compiled by Scott taylor 7. st. Pat’s – Returning QB to lead the team 8. Marian Catholic – Youth movement starts now.

9. st. Viator – Tough to bounce back in a league this hard.

News

>> freshmen, from page 10

community

Shorewood Scoot to benefit Staehely fund Funds will benefit “Make Your Mark” Mark Staehely Pediatric Cancer Foundation

The 9th annual Shorewood Scoot 5K Run/Walk will be held Saturday, Sept. 6, at the corner of Sharp and Black roads, Shorewood.

Funds raised will benefit the “Make Your Mark” Mark Staehely Pediatric Cancer Foundation. The foundation each Christmas collects and delivers thousands of toys to children hospitalized over the holidays at several local and Chicago children’s hospitals.

Race day check-in will

THE BUGLE/SENTINEL AUGUST 27, 2014

and walkers will use the path in Hammel Woods Forest Preserve. Water stations will be available on the course.

There is a $35 entry fee, which if done ahead of the race online, will guarantee a T-shirt in the participant’s size.

Those entering on race day will receive a shirt, but size cannot be guaranteed.

Awards will be given for kids, women and men in bugle file photo many age groups, and also The “Make Your Mark” Mark for teams that enter. Mail Staehely Pediatric Cancer entries, until Sept. 2 only, to Foundation each Christmas Presence Physical Therapy, collects and delivers thousands Att: Matt Klebenow, 852 Sharp of toys to children hospitalized Drive, Shorewood, Illinois over the holidays at several 60404.For online entries, visit local and Chicago children’s provena.org/stjoes/scoot. For hospitals. more information, call Matt begin at 7 a.m., with the race Klebenow at 815-7417416. beginning at 8:30. Runners

and many others began the process back in 2007 when she first became president of the university. It was in that year, she said, that the first white paper study was done, taking a closer look at the feasibility of becoming a four-year, fullservice university.

After the convocation ceremony, everyone made their way over to Prairie Place where a large bow was tied across the outside entrance. After a few brief comments, Maimon and Brian Mitchell, chairman of GSU’s board untied the large bow. Just before that happened, Maimon explained why they decided on a bow as opposed to a ribbon and big pair of scissors.

“This is GSU’s gift to our students and our faculty,” she said.

Not only are the students and staff excited about GSU becoming a four-year university, area junior colleges also are welcoming the move. GSU has had support on the move from all the area community colleges – from Joliet Junior College

21

to Prairie State College, GSU officials said.

Terri Winfree, president of Prairie State, attended Friday afternoon’s “Trans4mation” festivities at GSU. Winfree was vice president of Prairie State when area community college officials were asked to support the move by GSU to become a four-year university.

“We all signed off on this,” Winfree said.

Breanna Stovall of New Lenox said she is very excited about starting her freshmen year at GSU. A Lincoln-Way West High School graduate, Stovall said she had planned to attend Carthage College, and then her father told her about some information he received in the mail about GSU becoming a four-year university.

“The more I visited, the more I fell in love with it, so I applied and got accepted,” she said.

Like Johnson, Stovall will be living on campus in the new Prairie Place. She said the faculty and staff have made her feel like family.

“They are always asking how I’m doing,” Stovall said. “I’m extremely happy.”

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THE BUGLE/SENTINEL AUGUST 27, 2014

fall cleaninG tipS

help rid your home of autumn allergens Moisture breeds mold, so make sure to scan the inside of dishwashers, under the fridge

(StatePoint) Many people think of allergies as a spring problem, but most sniffle sufferers know that fall can pose its own issues. Mold and ragweed are common fall allergy triggers, as well as dust mites, which are naturally more prevalent in the home during the drier months.

“You can turn your home into a safe haven from fall allergens with regular, strategic cleaning and a few preventive measures,” says Robin Wilson, an interior design expert and an ambassador with the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America.

To help make your home more comfortable this season, Wilson is offering some fall cleaning tips to eliminate allergens and maintain a clean and healthy space: • Wash your bedding.

Mattress and pillow protectors will help control dust mites.

As an added precaution, wash your bedding in warm or hot

water every month and replace pillows every three years.

• Check for mold. Moisture breeds mold, so make sure to scan the inside of dishwashers, under the fridge in the water pan and in sink and bath drains.

Change water dispensers and icemaker filters on a regular basis.

• Vacuum frequently.

Whether you have wallto-wall carpeting, tile or hardwood floors, it’s important to eliminate dust and dirt.

Vacuum, mop or steam clean flooring regularly.

“Use a vacuum with a high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filter, which captures small particles such as allergens, irritants and pollutants,” says Wilson.

For example, the Panasonic MC-UL429 Vacuum has a HEPA filter and accessories that allow you to be more thorough and get into tight corners. This vacuum also comes with an

StAtepoiNt photo

attachment that pulls pet hair -- another potential allergen -- out of upholstered surfaces.

More information can be found at www.shop.panasonic.com.

• Wash or freeze stuffed toys. If your child sleeps with their favorite stuffed animals, you should frequently wash or freeze them in a plastic bag for 48 hours. This will lower the level of dust mites which can

trigger asthma and allergies.

• Use Slipcovers. Slipcovers have come a long way in the last 10 years. Since they can be cleaned regularly and more easily than upholstery, consider using them on sofas and other furniture.

• Keep ragweed outside.

After spending time outside, have your child leave any clothing or sports equipment

close to the entrance of the home to avoid tracking irritants throughout rooms.

“Just because the pollen count isn’t through the roof doesn’t mean you can’t fall prey to allergies,” says Wilson.

“With regular cleaning, you can manage the irritants in your home and make it a more breathable place.”

lanDScapinG

Smart tips to make fall lawn care easier Weeding can be made less painful if you adhere to the old gardener’s trick of completing this task after it rains

(StatePoint) A beautiful lawn is important for a lovely home, but when those autumn leaves begin to fall, some extra effort is required to keep things picture perfect. This once meant firing up noisy machinery and piling up bag after bag of yard waste. Now that we live in more environmentally-conscientious times, this might not seem like such a responsible idea.

Doing things by hand doesn’t have to lead to a sore back. Learning some helpful hints can make your lawn really stand out this year and help you get the job done in a breeze.

Spring is when the lawn and garden really come into full bloom, but fall is when plants are storing energy and nutrients to have ready when the season turns. Like an athlete training in the offseason, get a step up on the competition by building a good

StAtepoiNt photo

foundation. Now’s the time to fertilize and aerate since roots keep growing and storing energy even when above-ground growth slows during the colder months.

Don’t forget to keep watering too!

Weeding can be made less painful if you adhere to the old gardener’s trick of completing this task after it rains. When the earth is dry, it’s harder to pull out the whole weed without breaking off the top.

After rainfall, the ground is soft, making it easier to pluck out entire weeds.They can easily be added to leaves and other debris that needs to be hauled away.

BuSineSS

BusiNess & reAl estAte

THE BUGLE/SENTINEL AUGUST 27, 2014

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tailgate party the Ultimate experience Hampton helps Bears fans get ready for a new season By mike SanDrolini for the bugle

mike@buglenewspapers.com @voyagersport

A week from Sunday, the Chicago Bears host the Buffalo Bills at Soldier Field in the season-opener of a muchanticipated 2014 campaign.

Area Bears fans who attended last Sunday’s Ultimate Tailgate Party, hosted by Famous Dave’s and The Bugle, clearly are ready for some football as they sampled mouth-watering barbecue, drank their favorite beverages, took part in Bears trivia contests, participated in a bags tournament … and collected autographs from featured guest Dan Hampton— the Pro Football Hall of Fame defensive lineman who was an integral part of Chicago’s 1985 Super Bowl championship club.

“It’s a beautiful day. It’s beautiful to be around barbecue, and have the wafting scent of barbecue. It’s like napalm in the morning,” said Hampton with a grin while paraphrasing an old line from the Francis Ford Coppola Vietnam War movie, “Apocalypse Now.” Hampton joins former Bears wide receiver Glen Koslowski and weeknight 11 p.m.-2 a.m. host Pete McMurray to provide analysis following every Bears game this season on WGN Radio AM-720’s “Two and a Half Bears” show. He was already in mid-season form during a live segment with Harry Teinowitz at the Tailgate Party that was broadcast on The Game 87.7 FM—a sports talk station started by WGN Radio earlier this year.

“They (WGN) do everything top shelf and everybody is excited about the Bears, no question about it,” Hampton said. “It’s going to be a consequential season one way or the other.”

Hampton told Teinowitz he believes the Bears have “a pretty darned good team from top to bottom.” He’s particularly excited about how the organization went about acquiring free agents and draft picks to bolster a defensive line that, although injury-prone, also was a main reason why the Bears’ defense surrendered the most yardage in the NFL last season. “(Lamarr) Houston, (Jeremiah) Ratliff and Willie Young are players,” he said.

“And watch (2014 third-round draft pick) Will Sutton. This kid, he can go.”

But like all Bears fans, Hampton was not happy with how the team performed during its 34-6 preseason loss to the defending Super Bowl champion Seattle Seahawks on Aug. 22. He said head coach Marc Trestman needs to make the Bears’ practice sessions tougher.

“It’s a beautiful day. It’s beautiful to be around barbecue, and have the wafting scent of barbecue.

It’s like napalm in the morning,” said Hampton with a grin while paraphrasing an old line from the Francis Ford Coppola Vietnam War movie, “Apocalypse Now.” “You cannot get ready for a game against the Seattle Seahawks at Seattle by standing around (in practice), holding (blocking) dummies and pushing each other,” he told Teinowitz. “Marc Trestman needs to understand: as good as he is with the Xs and the Os, unless you’re willing to man up and hit people, block, tackle and be physical at the point of attack, we’re going to have problems.”

As for the offense, Hampton said quarterback Jay Cutler “has fabulous upside” and “top-five ability,” but Cutler must produce this season, especially with two

photo bY bY MiKe SANDRoliNi | foR the bugle

Dan Hampton talking on The Game 87.7 FM.

Pro Bowl receivers (Brandon Marshall and Alshon Jeffery), a Pro Bowl running back (Matt Forte) and a potential Pro Bowl tight end (Martellus Bennett) at his disposal.

“No excuses,” he said. “He (Cutler) needs to beat some people.”

Bears fan Pablo Martinez, who’s from Crest Hill, is counting down the days to Week 1.

“They have great potential,” said Martinez, who took part in the bags tournament and attended the party to meet Hampton. “It’s exciting to see the new players and hold (them) to a new pressure that we have to win more.”

John Henning of Woodridge brought his son, 6-year-old Clayton, to the Tailgate Party, and together, they correctly answered a Bears trivia question posed to them by WGN-TV Channel 9 Morning News sports anchor Pat Tomasulo, which got them a prize.

John said Clayton is a big baseball fan who’s already been to 18 major league parks, but he wanted to bring his son to the Tailgate Party in the hope that he’ll become a football fan, too.

“We’re trying to introduce him to football,” John said of Clayton, who, as a 1-year-old, won Chicago’s “Most Huggable Baby” contest sponsored by 93.9 The Lite FM. Tomasulo said he enjoyed

spending the afternoon with Bears fans.

“Anytime you can come out and get some barbecue and talk some football, it’s fun,” he said.

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THE BUGLE/SENTINEL AUGUST 27, 2014

Food wolfGanG puck’S kitchen

grill late-summer fruit for an easy warm-weather dessert

Please try this simple recipe soon with whatever stone fruit you find

the fresh fruit salads, wonderful riots of color and flavor; or even spicy-sweet salsas spiked with onion, chilies, and fresh herbs to make exciting accompaniments for grilled seafood, poultry, or By wolfGanG puck meat. triBunE ContEnt sErViCE That mention of grilling www.wolfgangpuck.com/ @WolfgangBuzz brings me one of my favorite ways to prepare summer fruits: The fruit varieties that fill quickly cooking them over farmers’ market stalls right an open fire at the end of an now are some of late outdoor meal.The only summer’s greatest advance preparation pleasures.

Peaches, they require is cutting apricots, nectarines, them into halves along and plums-and their their natural seams, many hybrid cousins, removing the pits including apriums, (making freestone plumcots, and pluots varieties of peaches (plums crossed with the smartest choice for apricots), peacotums that particular fruit), (peach-apricot-plums) WoLfGanG PuCK’s and brushing them and nectaplums (that’s KitChEn with a little butter that WOLFGANG PUCK easy to figure out!) not only helps prevent - have refreshingly juicy flesh sticking but also adds an extra and some of the sweetest, most touch of richness. aromatic flavors of the fruit Be sure to brush the cooking world. grid clean before placing the I love to eat them just as they fruit on it, to remove any residue come, raw and still warm from of a savory main course you may the sun. My sons and I can’t have cooked. Then, just a few resist sampling slices that many minutes of grilling deliciously growers offer on their stalls. caramelizes some of the fruits’ But cooking juicy stone fruit, sugars and also softens them so named for the rock-hard pits at slightly, releasing their juices. their centers, extends the range The results are delectable-and of their pleasures. Just think of so easy to achieve. all the pies, cobblers, crumbles, In fact, that ease makes me shortcakes, ice creams, sorbets want to add another element and other desserts you can to grilled fruit desserts. In the make. And that’s not to mention recipe I share here, I prepare a

You might even be inspired to experiment with apriums, pluots, or nectaplums. Part of the joy of farmers’ markets and cooking, after all, can be found in the discoveries you make. sorbet ahead of time made with fresh raspberries and white grape juice, to serve alongside the fruit. If you want to save time, however, the grilled fruit would also be delicious with a scoop of good vanilla ice cream or another flavor you might prefer.

Please try this simple recipe soon with whatever stone fruit you find to be the best and most abundant. Stick with just one variety, if you like; or, if possible, use an assortment to delight your family and friends all the more with a kaleidoscope of colors and flavors.

You might even be inspired to experiment with apriums, pluots, or nectaplums. Part of the joy of farmers’ markets and cooking, after all, can be found in the discoveries you make. (c) 2014 WOLFGANG PUCK WORLDWIDE, INC. DISTRIBUTED BY TRIBUNE CONTENT AGENCY, LLC.

THE BUGLE/SENTINEL AUGUST 27, 2014

recipe

grilleD sUMMer frUit WitH fresH raspBerrY-grape sorBet SERVES 4

raspBerrYgrape sorBet: 2 cups white grape juice 1 cup water 1/2 cup sugar 4 cups raspberries, rinsed and dried on paper towels

grilleD sUMMer frUit: 2 ripe but firm sweet peaches, halved and pitted 2 ripe but firm sweet plums, halved and pitted 2 ripe but firm sweet nectarines, halved and pitted 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted Fresh mint sprigs, for garnish

At least several hours in advance, make the sorbet. Put the grape juice in a small saucepan and bring to a boil over medium-high heat.

Boil until it reduces to 1 cup, 7 to 10 minutes. Make a simple syrup by combining the water and sugar in another saucepan and boiling until the sugar has dissolved.

Stir together the syrup and grape juice and chill, either by refrigerating the mixture until cold or, more quickly, by setting the bowl inside a large bowl filled with ice cubes and water, stirring occasionally.

In a blender or a food processor fitted with the stainlesssteel blade, puree the raspberries. Set a fine-mesh strainer over a mixing bowl and pass the puree through to remove the seeds, pressing down with a rubber spatula to force all the puree through and scraping any puree from the underside of the sieve into the bowl. Stir in the chilled grape juice mixture.

If you have an ice cream or sorbet maker, transfer the sorbet mixture to the machine and freeze, following manufacturer’s instructions. Pack the sorbet into a freezer container with a lid and freeze until solid.

Alternatively, make a granita by transferring the mixture to a shallow baking dish or bowl, covering it with plastic wrap, and freezing until the mixture begins to set, about 25 minutes. Using a clean fork, scrape the granita to break up the ice crystals, mixing well. Cover, return to the freezer, and repeat every 20 minutes, pushing the ice crystals from the outside of the pan toward the center, until the mixture is completely frozen but not solid.

About 15 minutes before serving time, remove the container of sorbet or the granita from the freezer. Leave at room temperature to soften slightly for scooping.

Preheat an outdoor or indoor grill or the broiler. Brush the fruit halves all over with the melted butter and cook them on the grill or under the broiler until golden brown, 3 to 5 minutes per side.

Use an ice cream scoop or a large serving spoon to scoop the sorbet or granita onto the centers of individual serving plates or bowls. Arrange the fruit around the sorbet or granita, garnish with mint sprigs, and serve immediately.

cut here

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