Niles 12-11-14

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2A

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 11, 2014 VOL. 59 ISSUE 10

NEWS

schooL district 64 students seLected as musicaL aLLstars The ILMEA District Festival was held on Saturday, Nov. 2

see Page 3

community neWs

NEWS roadmap for the future District 64 officials devise strategic plan

see Page 3

OPINION should the library tell you what to think?

Second annual Do-It-Yourself performance of Handel’s Messiah was a rousing success

No, the Library shouldn’t tell you what to think. Look to your own conscience see Page 7 for that

TRANSPORTATION

Lee st. interchange project slated Once traffic shift is complete, southbound side of bridge will be removed over winter

see Page 4

SPORTS dons win tournament title

Notre Dame wins tournament at Lane Tech

see Page 11

The Details. a large crowd enjoyed

the stirring sounds of a full choir of professional and local singers accompanied by an outstanding orchestra (submitted photo).

Sponsored by The Niles Bugle, the second annual do-it-yourself performance of Handel’s Messiah was a rousing success dec. 2 at St. John Brebeuf in Niles. A large crowd enjoyed the stirring sounds of a full choir of professional and local singers accompanied by an outstanding orchestra under the baton of Marek rachelski, SJB’s Music director. Among the featured soloists were Todd von Felker (bass), elise LaBarge (soprano), Scott Brunscheen (tenor), John eckhardt (violinist), Jennifer kosharsky (mezzo-soprano), and rachelski (conductor and keyboard artist).

The concert is the fifth in a series of eight performances which began in September and runs through March. The next is Feb. 15 at 3 p.m. with Classical Guitarist Jack Cimo performing. For more information on the concerts or to participate as a singer, contact rachelski at 847-966-8145.

P age 2 | Th u rsd ay, D e c e mb e r 1 1 , 2 0 1 4 | n ilesbugle. c om

T h ur s day, Decem ber 11, 2014 | ni lesbug le.com

park ridge

Roadmap for the future District 64 officials devise strategic plan

By Chris Zois For the bugle

nweditorl@buglenewspapers.com @BugleNewspapers

District 64 school officials have outlined plans for the school district to grow and prosper over the next few years.

This new strategic plan was devised by D64 board member Dan Collins, with the hope that it would give the community a clear idea of future goals for the district to accomplish.

Collins said some of these plans tend to be long, maybe even 100 pages, but his goal was to make it broad enough for people to read it in one sitting and detailed enough to explain the district’s goals.

“We have an obligation as the board to be able to present our overall vision and plan to the district and the community,” Collins said. “Someone can

district 64 road map

The district has completed some of its goals, including upgrading the Field facilities, launching the district website and approving the budget for security enhancements, but Collins hopes people will stay tuned and help out with causes.

take this document, get a full understanding of where the board sits, from a resident stand point, what is the overall goal, action plan and metrics of the district and what we [district] plan on doing moving forward.”

Collins divided the plan into four sections: student learning, facilities, finances and communications. He said student learning will deal with the monitoring and supporting growth of students, facilities concentrates on improving

buildings, the finance section will highlight how they spend money and communications will concern improving the district’s line of conversations with the community.

Collins, who has worked in the private sector and used similar outlines like this, said those who are not able to attend district meetings can look at this document and ask any questions they want.

“We have to make sure that we are transparent to the community on what we want to achieve,” Collins said. “I think that we are, but I think that also there’s a difference between being transparent and also making sure that we make things easy for people to understand.”

The district has completed some of its goals, including upgrading the Field facilities, launching the district website and approving the budget for security enhancements, but Collins hopes people will stay tuned and help out with causes.

Skokie

Low-income families to receive employment services Childcare Network of Evanston provides access to high quality child care services to families who are at 100% of Federal Poverty Level or below National Able Network, Inc. was recently awarded a $5,000 grant from the Skokie Community Fund to provide training and employment services to low income families living in Skokie and the surrounding areas.

National Able Network will be working collaboratively to provide a comprehensive suite of employment services to currently-active families of the Childcare Network of Evanston.

“We are honored to be among the first recipients of this award from the Skokie Community Fund,” said National Able Network President & CEO, Grace Powers. “With this grant and with the help of Childcare Network of Evanston, National Able Network will be better able to serve mostin-need families of Skokie.”

Childcare Network of Evanston provides access to high quality child care services to families who are at 100 percent of the Federal Poverty Level or below in Evanston, Skokie, Lincolnwood, Morton Grove and surrounding communities.

The agency will build a cohort of clients who will work directly with both National Able Network and Childcare Network of Evanston to obtain selfsufficiency in both childcare and employment.

“We are very pleased to be partnering with National Able Network to help our clients achieve a more stable future for themselves and their families,” said Andrea Densham, Executive Director of Childcare Network of Evanston.

With this grant and with the help of Childcare Network of Evanston, National Able Network will be better able to serve most-in-need families of Skokie.”

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schools

School District 64 Students Selected as Musical All-Stars The ILMEA District Festival was held on Saturday, Nov. 2 Park Ridge-Niles School District 64 middle school student musicians were selected to participate in two annual regional events sponsored by the Illinois Music Educators Association (ILMEA).

The ILMEA District Festival was held on Saturday, Nov. 2, at Maine West High School.

More than 700 of the finest band and orchestra students from over 50 junior high schools in the North Suburban area auditioned for a position in this all-star group.

“This is a tremendous opportunity for our top band and orchestra students to meet and perform with talented students from other schools. Students also have the opportunity to work with nationally known conductors,” according to Brian Jacobi, Curriculum Specialist for Instrumental Music.

District 64 students at the District festival included: Emerson – Olivia Davis,

clarinet; Tommy Doubleday, trumpet; Sophia Stefaniuk and Allison Paxhia, flute; Eva Nicholson, violin; Amna Sorbun, cello, and, Lincoln – Grace Dziedzic, flute; and Anna Szurzynski, violin.

David Thomas from MacArthur Middle School in Prospect Heights (retired) conducted the band and Dr. Louis Bergonzi from The University of Illinois conducted the orchestra.

The second event was the ILMEA Jazz Festival, held Saturday, Nov. 22, at Barrington High School. Robert Rzeszutko from Carleton Washburne School in Winnetka conducted the Middle School Jazz Band.

District 64 participants included: Emerson – Owen Kopka, trombone; and Lincoln – Natalie Eng, Connolly Ferraro and Mark Parages, saxophone.

Lincoln teacher Brian Jacobi directed one of the four high school bands at the festival. District 64 teachers who instruct these students include: Eric Bachmann, Max Hellermann, Brian Jacobi, Natalie Jacobsen, Mary Ciccotelli, Jamie Hestead, and Erica Charous.

- Grace Powers, National Able Network President & CEO

One out of every five Skokie families lives below the Federal Poverty Line, and one out of every four children in Skokie suffers from poverty. By collaborating with Childcare Network of Evanston, National Able Network can target job seeking services to most-in-need Skokie-area residents.

Twenty-five current clients of Childcare Network of Evanston will receive connections to employment opportunities as well as participate in nationallyrecognized Job Readiness Training offered by National Able Network.

Elizabeth Martin Elizabeth “Betty” Martin, nee Quick, age 80, passed away at home on Dec. 5, 2014, surrounded by her family. Beloved wife of Bernard Martin; loving mother of Joanne (Mike) Labny and William Martin; cherished grandmother of Ross (Hannah) Labny; devoted great grandmother of Emma and Troy Labny; dear sister of Joan Quick, George (Elizabeth) Quick and the late Douglas “Bill” Quick;

and fond aunt of nieces and nephews. Friends and family are asked to meet Saturday, Dec. 13 at St. John Brebeuf Church, 8301 N. Harlem Ave., Niles, for 10 a.m. Memorial Mass. Interment Private. In lieu of flowers, donations to the St. John Brebeuf Church - St. Vincent DePaul Society appreciated. Arrangements

by Skaja Terrace Funeral Home. For more information, call 847-966-7302 or visit www.skajafuneralhomes. com.

4

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transportation

Lee Street Interchange Project slated Once traffic shift is complete, southbound side of bridge will be removed over winter The Illinois Tollway is scheduled to shift traffic next week on the Lee Street Bridge over the Jane Addams Memorial Tollway (Interstate 90) as part of the Lee Street Interchange Project.

The shift will allow work to rebuild the interchange to continue through the winter. The project is scheduled to be complete in 2015.

The Lee Street Interchange Project is reconstructing the Lee Street Bridge carrying traffic over I-90 and rebuilding the two existing ramps providing access to and from the east.

Weather permitting, during the week of Dec. 8, one lane of traffic in each direction on Lee Street is scheduled to be shifted onto the reconstructed northbound side of the bridge carrying Lee Street traffic over I-90. The shift will take place during non-peak daytime hours and is scheduled to be completed before the evening rush hour.

Once the traffic shift is complete, the southbound side of the bridge will then be removed over the winter months. Reconstruction of the new southbound side of the bridge will begin in spring 2015.

Lee St. Interchange

The Lee Street Interchange Project is funded by the Illinois Tollway’s 15-year, $12 billion capital program, Move Illinois: The Illinois Tollway Driving the Future. The Lee Street Bridge and ramps were constructed as part of the original Tollway system in the 1950s.

Also scheduled the week of Dec. 8, traffic on the eastbound entrance ramp and westbound exit ramp will be shifted back to the standard configuration with full lanes at the intersection with Lee Street.

Traffic has been shifted to keep

the ramps open to traffic during reconstruction.

Up to 11,800 vehicles use the existing interchange daily. The Lee Street Interchange Project is reconstructing the Lee Street Bridge over the Jane Addams Memorial Tollway (I-90), as well as the two ramps that make up the partial interchange, and includes improvements to Lee Street between Touhy Avenue and Upper Express Drive.

The existing eastbound entrance and westbound exit ramps are being reconstructed with the same configuration. In addition, the project also provides room for a future multi-use bicycle and pedestrian path on the east side

of the bridge and a sidewalk on the west side. The project cost is estimated at $25-$35 million with work scheduled to be complete in 2015.

The Lee Street Interchange Project is funded by the Illinois Tollway’s 15-year, $12 billion capital program, Move Illinois: The Illinois Tollway Driving the Future. The Lee Street Bridge and ramps were constructed as part of the original Tollway system in the 1950s.

A 45 mph work zone speed limit is in effect 24/7 in the construction zone on Lee Street and the ramps, whether or not workers are present.

Drivers should continue to watch for changing traffic patterns and use caution at all times.

inStagRaM: readers, Send us a #selfie of you reading @Buglenewspapers & you could be featured in an upcoming issue!

T h ur s day, decem ber 11, 2014 | ni lesbug le.com

maine toWnship

5

niles

Maine Township holds the Holiday events at line on tax levy Niles park District The 2014 levy passed at last month’s meeting

The Maine Township Board of Trustees voted unanimously at its meeting Nov. 25 to hold the line again on the tax levy that will be collected in 2015.

There was essentially no increase over the prior year’s levy and only a slight increase over two years ago.

“We want to again give the taxpayers a break in their tax bills from Maine Township next year,” said Carol A. Teschky, Maine Township Supervisor, in a press release. “We have been consistently fiscally conservative

in our spending over the last couple of years and are happy to pass along the savings to the taxpayers.”

The 2014 levy passed at last month’s meeting is the amount of money that Maine Township asks Cook County officials to collect through property taxes to fund Maine Townships day to day operations.

Maine Township levies taxes for the Town Fund and for the General Assistance Fund.

The levy for the Town Fund is $4,349,812. The levy for the General Assistance Fund is $1,042,142.

Over the past two years, the Township has held down taxes. In 2013, the levy for the Town Fund and for the General Assistance

Breakfast with SantaSaturday, dec. 13

“We have been consistently fiscally conservative in our spending over the last couple of years and are happy to pass along the savings to the taxpayers ...”

CAroL A. TeSCHky,

MAINE TOWNSHIP SuPERVISOR

Fund were the same amounts.

In 2012, the levy for the Town Fund is $4,343,996. The levy for the General Assistance Fund was $1,043,026.

“As we see, the levy essentially remained the same and only went up $6,000 from 2012 to 2014,” says Teschky. “We have been only requesting roughly the same amount from the taxpayers the last three years.

“We run a fiscally conservative ship at Maine Township. We never boost our levy over and above what is actually needed to run the township and service the disadvantaged.”

Every year Santa makes a stop at the Howard Leisure Center to enjoy breakfast, visit & take pictures with the children. All must register.

Who: Children up to 3rd Grade & Adults Times: 8:30-9:30 a.m., 10-11 a.m., or 11:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.

Fee: Res $10; Non-Res $12 per person (No refunds) Santa Skate- Sunday, dec. 21 Come to IceLand and skate with Santa and his elves to Holiday songs!

Who: Kids & Adults, Families Where: IceLand, 8435 Ballard Time: 2:30-4 p.m.

Fee: $5.00, Skate Rental $3 Holiday Skating recitalSunday, dec. 21 Watch skaters from our Skate School perform to favorite holiday songs.

Who: All are welcome to attend & watch Where: IceLand, 8435 Ballard Time: 4:20-6:15 p.m.

Fee: FREE with a food, toy or monetary donation to Niles Family Services.

New year’s eve SkateWednesday, dec. 31

Celebrate New Year’s Eve at IceLand. Fun music, hats, noise makers, and games for the kids. Countdown and toast at “Midnight.”

Who: Kids & Adults, Families Where: IceLand, 8435 Ballard Time: Noon-2 p.m.

Fee: $5, Skate Rental $3 Registration is required for Breakfast with Santa. Register at the Howard Leisure Center, 6676 W. Howard.

847-9676633.

Questions on skating events, call Iceland at 847-297-8010.

CHriSTMAS diNNer FriSBie SeNior CeNTer As it has for the past 12 years, the Christmas Dinner Frisbie Senior Center will host a free dinner for seniors at 12:30 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 25, at 52 E. Northwest Highway, Des Plaines. Last year nearly 100 individuals who had nowhere to go for the holiday attended this event; this year, that number is likely to increase.

This event is open to the public and free, although a donation is appreciated. Reservations are required and needed by Dec. 18th. Call 847-768-5944. Seating is limited, so sign up early.

www.cookcountycrimestoppers.org • 800.535.stop Thursday, Decem ber 11, 2014 | ni lesbug le.com The following items were compiled from the official reports of the Niles, Park Ridge and Morton Grove police departments. Appearing in the police blotter does not constitute a finding of guilt, only a court of law can make that determination.

8 4 5 6 7

21

28

25

NILES

22

Kenneth Brown, 54, 10086 Holly Lane, Des Plaines, was arrested on Dec. 3 in the 900 block of Civic Center for a drug arrest.

1

16

26 20 27

Heidi Martin, 58, 1800 Robincrest Lane, Glenview, was arrested on Dec. 1 on Central and Elm for not having a valid driver’s license and obstruction of identification.

2

1

10

Kyu Hwang, 36, 1515 W. White Oak St., Arlington Heights, was arrested on Nov. 29 in the 7300 block of Milwaukee Avenue for driving under the influence alcohol.

3

Natisha Mason, 22; Carol Price, 43, 8815 Carleah St., Des Plaines, were arrested on Nov. 29 at the Golf Mill Center for a Class 4 felony.

4

24 23

11

Donnell Price, 18, 8815 Carleah St., Des Plaines, was arrested on Nov. 29 at the Golf Mill Center for a Class A misdemeanor.

5

17 19 18

12 9

15 14

Jaminiben Patel, 22, 5158 N. Lotus Ave., was arrested on Nov. 28 at the Golf Mill Center for retail theft.

6

Lauren Alexander, 4816 Mulford St., Skokie, was arrested on Nov. 30 at the Golf Mill Center for retail theft.

7

Barbara Swodersla, 62, 9340 Hamilton Court, Des Plaines, was arrested on Nov. 30 in the 8500 block of Golf Road for retail theft.

8

PARK RIDGE Matthew Miskelly, 43, of the 2900 block of North Clybourn Avenue, Chicago, was arrested on Nov. 22 on Devon and Dee for driving under the influence and speeding.

9

Nashwan Legrone, 30, of the block of Lake Street, Evanston, was arrested on Nov. 23 in the 800 block of East Avenue for retail theft.

10 1800

Maria Rodriguez-Blanco, 24, of the 4000 block of West Melrose Street, Chicago, was arrested on Nov. 24 on Northwest Highway and Washington for driving with a suspended license

11

and driving without insurance.

A 17-year-old was arrested on Nov. 24 on Western and Albion for driving without a driver’s license, having no insurance, failing to yield at an intersection, having an obstructed windshield and causing damage to city property.

12

Ashur Khoshaba, 31, of the 6100 block of Gale Street, Rosemont, was arrested on Nov. 25 on River and Devon for driving with a suspended registration and driving with a suspended license.

13

Minerva Flores, 36, of the 600

14 block of West Pickwick Court, Mount Prospect, was arrested in the 500 block of West Devon for delivering alcohol to an underage person.

Anne Emmerich, 55, of the 3300 block of North Panama Avenue, Chicago, was arrested in

15

the 700 block of West Devon for delivering alcohol to an underage person.

Matthew La Liberty, 42, of the 1400 block of South Canal, Chicago, was arrested on Nov. 25 in the 1700 block of West Dempster for trespassing.

16

Alexander Bonk, 19, of the 900 block of South Aldine, Park Ridge, was arrested in the 800 block of South Washington Avenue for possession of cannabis.

17

Michael Rooney, 19, of the 800 block of South Western Avenue, Park Ridge, was arrested on Nov. 25 in the 800 block of South Washington Avenue for paraphernalia possession.

18

South Washington Avenue for paraphernalia possession.

MORTON GROVE Salinas, 18, was arrested 20 Eric on Nov. 25 on Dempster and Waukegan for not having a valid driver’s license.

Alfred Jasser, 39, was arrested on Nov. 27 in the 6400 block of Beckwith Road for battery.

21

Daniel Weinstein, 21, was on Nov. 30 on Washington and Arcadia for possession of cannabis and drug paraphernalia.

25 arrested

George Somo, 21, was arrested

26 on Dec. 1 on Dempster and Sayre for driving with a suspended license.

Tilynn Tate, 27, was arrested

Klaudiusz Wiosna, 22, was arrested on Nov. 29 on Parkside and Lake after a warrant was issued for his arrest.

22

27 on Dec. 1 in the 6700 block of Dempster Street for misdemeanor speeding.

Ireneusz Sarnecki, 71, was

Kurtis Dobnja, 20, of the

Martin Radziszewski, 18, was arrested on Nov. 29 on Oakton and Lehigh for intentionally placing the wrong license plates on his car to avoid registering his vehicle.

Avenue, Park Ridge, was arrested on Nov. 25 in the 800 block of

24 arrested on Nov. 29 at 6301

19 700 block of South Prospect

Oakton St., for retail theft.

23

Levon Poladian, 68, was

28 arrested on Dec. 4 on Shermer and Church for driving under the influence of alcohol.

For more Niles, Park Ridge, Morton Grove police blotter, visit www.buglenewspapers.com/ policeblotter

Send us your feedback at nweditor@buglenewspapers.com

7

EDITORIAL

T h ur s day, Decem ber 11, 2014 | ni lesbug le.com

ALEX HERNANDEZ • LAURA KATAUSKAS STEWART WARREN • MARK GREGORY • MIKE SANDROLINI

PRODUCTION

guest column

Should the library tell you what to think?

ADVERTISING

No, the Library shouldn’t tell you what to think.

Look to your own conscience for that

SALES REPRESENTATIVES Phil Besler

pbesler@buglenewspapers.com 815.436.2431 ext. 107

Joliet, Crest Hill Lockport, Romeoville Nicole Austin

naustin@buglenewspapers.com 815.436.2431 ext. 105

Bolingbrook, Downers Grove, Westmont, Woodridge & Lisle

4

ENTERPRISE NEWSPAPERS, INC. 23856 Andrew Road #104 Plainfield, IL 60585 Phone: (815) 436-2431 Fax: (815) 436-2592 MON - FRI: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

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Plainfield, Shorewood

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Niles, Morton Grove, Des Plaines & Park Ridge

ADVERTISING DEADLINES. Space and copy deadlines for display and classified ads is 12 p.m. Friday before date of insertion.

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GIs who liberated and then When I first joined the Niles ministered to the survivors at Public Library Board, we the camps. faced a terrible dilemma. An The normally stoic and elderly Jewish couple asked to macho General George S. address the Board about a new Patton couldn’t even look at book in our Russian language the emaciated bodies himself, collection. Unbeknownst to us but forced the German’s living or anyone on our staff, we had another nearby to go through the camp purchased a book in Russian perspective with morgan that they might remember

by David Duke. dubiel their horrible crime. Ask the Mr. Duke is a known neoChildren of Jewish Holocaust Nazi, Grand Dragon of the Ku Klux Klan, anti-Semite and Holocaust Survivors if their parents are liars.

There is a whole publishing industry Denier. This book denied that the Nazi (Nationalsozialismus or National dedicated to Jewish conspiracy Socialism) Holocaust ever happened. theories. I was surprised to learn that in Yet, here standing before us were two Japan, there is a thriving book market where titles like “How to be Rich Like survivors of that very Holocaust.

Two living testaments to the horrors a Jew” or “The Jewish Road to Wealth” visited upon European Jewry, two are and were highly popular.

The way we got Duke’s book was people who had lost friends and family to government-sponsored mass peculiar as well. Our library didn’t have murder, two people quite rationally a Librarian Russian language speaker, and reasonably asking us why we would and so we relied on a service that would help us pick a collection of books have such a book on our shelves.

Holocaust denial has a long history popular with Russian audiences.

As it turns out, anti-Semitic tracts of revisionism by people who mainly are kooks pointing a finger at “World are very popular in Russia.

This couple, browsing our collection, Jewry” exercising some international was mortified to find such a book on conspiracy.

The Holocaust really happened. We our library’s shelves. This was modern America, not backwards Russia. have the documents in German.

We were blessed at that very time We have the evidence of American

to have Jack Sugar as Board President.

Jack’s a good thinker, good man and he also happens to be Jewish.

Once we all had digested how this book came to be on our shelves, he turned to the couple and explained that in America we have a Constitution.

It contains a Bill of Rights the first of which reads: Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof; or abridging the freedom of speech, or of the press; or the right of the people peaceably to assemble, and to petition the Government for a redress of grievances.

The same amendment that recognized their God-given right to petition government also protected Duke’s right to write a lie, and Russian readers living in America to read it.

Implicit in the Freedom of Religion is the right to Freedom of Thought as religion is a belief system which uses thought to express itself.

Not one of us on the Board found any merit in the book. Not one of us believes that the Holocaust didn’t take place. Yet we were all believers in our God-given Constitution.

Pres. Sugar explained all this. That dirty book sits on our shelves even today.

No, the Library shouldn’t tell you what to think. Look to your own conscience for that.

8

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schools Lorenz Gfesser Lorenz Gfesser, age 85, of Niles, beloved husband of Martha; loving father of James (Pam) and Bernard Gfesser; cherished grandfather of Kevin, Daniel (Emilie L’Abbee) and Nicole Gfesser; dear brother of the late George (Brigitte) Gfesser; and fond uncle of Gregory (Mary) and Erik (Amy) Gfesser. Lorenz is also survived by his caregiver

Evgeniya.

Visitation was Sunday, Nov. 30, from 3-8 p.m. at the Skaja Terrace Funeral Home, 7812 N. Milwaukee Ave., Niles. Funeral service was Monday, Dec. 1, at 9:15 a.m. to St John Brebeuf Church Mass 10 a.m. Entombment All Saints Mausoleum. For more information, call 847-9667302 or sign the guest book at www.skajafuneralhomes. com.

District 64 Parent University explores what it means for students to be ‘Good Digital Citizens’ Learn about the District’s Internet Safety curriculum about being safe on the Park Ridge-Niles Internet.

District 64 School District 64 invites Instructional Technology parents and community Coaches Beth Andert, members to explore what Field School, and Kara it means for students to Pottinger, Emerson be good “digital citizens,” Middle School, will at a Parent University Laurie Heinz “tour” some basic social program on Monday, school district 64 December 15, 6:30 - 7:30 Superintendent networking sites, and point out the safety/ p.m., at Jefferson School, privacy settings available 8200 Greendale, Niles.

This program is especially geared to users and parents. This session for parents of students in grades will also provide guidance in monitoring your child’s personal 3-8.

Learn about the District’s social media activities and setting Internet Safety curriculum up expectations for your child and how to talk to your child about his/her Web presence.

Good Digital Citizens Parent Program

dec.15 6:30pm Jefferson School 8200 Greendale, Niles More information can be found at: http://www.d64.org/

Bring your questions -- and share strategies and ideas to help your peers!

The session is time to allow participants to stay for the Board of Education meeting that follows, too.

police

Unlawful Discharge of a Firearm reported Officers on scene took 58-year-old Male into custody and recovered the handgun Niles, IL – At about 11:45 am on 12/6/2014 Niles Police Officers were dispatched to a construction site at 6450 Touhy Avenue. The Caller/Complainant stated a coworker had fired a gun at him.

Niles Police Officers responded to the scene and met the Caller/ Complainant a 60 yoa Male

who stated that he was having a physical altercation with his 34 yoa co-worker when another coworker operating a construction vehicle observed the altercation.

The Construction worker a 58 yoa Male who had a valid concealed carry permit pulled his Smith & Wesson 9 mm semi-automatic

handgun and fired a single round.

At this time it is not known if the offender discharged the weapon in the direction of the two people having the altercation or if he discharged a round into the air.

Officers on scene took the 58-year-old Male into custody and recovered the handgun. None of the involved parties were injured during the incident. The incident is currently being investigated and charges will be forthcoming.

John Kopp John Kopp, 89, beloved husband of Marianne; dear brother of the late Joseph (Emilie) Kopp; and fond uncle of Inga Feiter, Claudia Kopp and Helmut Kopp.

Visitation was Saturday, Nov. 29, at 9:30 a.m. until time of Mass 11 a.m. at St. Isaac Jogues Church, 8149 W. Golf Road, Niles.

For more information, call 847-966-7302 or sign the guest book at www. skajafuneralhomes.com.

Nintendo 3DS XL Red Console + Super Smash Bros Bundle Price: $199.99 target

Nintendo 3DS XL Red Console + Super Smash Bros Bundle $199.99 This console features: Touch Screen, Circle Pad, 3D Camera, Mii Maker, Wi-Fi Capability, Nintendo 3DS Sound, Front & Rear Camera, 3D Depth Slider and 4GB Hard Drive Capacity. So basically, this is an awesome gift for anyone.

Plus Super Smash Bros is an awesome way to channel holiday rage.

Gift Cards Price: varies

Yes, we know gift cards are a slight copout. However, you will get more points if you manage to really nail down the gift card for someone’s specific favorite place. Even better - Shop Local! Their favorite coffee shop, their favorite boutique, chances are, gift cards are available.

Game of Thrones or Hunger Games Book Bundle Price: $14.99-$20.99 target

Books?! People don’t only read these digitally? With the new Hungers Games film in theaters and Game of Thrones constantly drawing new viewers on HBO, give the gift of the source materials for these pop culture phenomenas. Even better, give the gift of allowing the loved ones of your life to angrily point out the differences between the books and the movies/ television series.

Philips Norelco Shaver 3500 (Model # PT730/41) Bonus Pack Price: $59.99

Perfect for husbands, boyfriends, dads and grandfathers (at least the ones that haven’t sworn off the notion of 21st century technology). This shaver provides you a fast and comfortable shave with less irritation.

DualPrecision heads are designed with slots and holes to quickly and comfortably shave both long and short hair.

Gwen Stefani Mini Holiday Stars Nail Polish Gift Set Price: $13.95

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FoR WHeN yoU WaNt to taKe 5 MiNUtes FoR yoURseLF Thursday, decem ber 11, 2014 | ni lesbug le.com

Aries

mARcH 21 To ApRIl 20

Heed your inspirations. You find it’s easy to get on the same wavelength with others this week and can trust your intuition. This might be an ideal time to re-evaluate plans or make crucial decisions for the future.

gemini

m AY 2 2 T o J u n E 2 1

Those you deal with in the beginning of the week may see you in the least flattering lightm so avoid making snap decisions. You’ll find that partners and close companions have some excellent, inspiring ideas.

leo

J u lY 2 3 T o A u G u S T 2 1

Dream a little dream in the week ahead. You may be inspired to take up a new business plan or to put your ideas and fantasies into a profitable format.

Across 1 In SHoRT SupplY 6 BASIcS foR DIck AnD JAnE 10 XT compuTERS 14 mAnDEl of “AmERIcA’S GoT TAlEnT” 15 AcTRESS lolloBRIGIDA 16 “lA mAJA DESnuDA” ARTIST 17 pRImARY ARTERY 18 fIRST nAmE In ADvIcE 19 BASEBAll’S HERSHISER 20 AmT. 21 plAYSkool’S RockTIvITY pRoDucTS, E.G. 24 muGS, E.G. 25 olD BRITISH coIn 26 clInIc HElpER 31 BIG concERT SETTInG 32 GAmBlER’S Iou 33 lAwYERS’ oRG. 36 pEER pRuRIEnTlY AT 37 kERmIT’S coloR 39 coffEE-BREwInG cHoIcE 40 BoozER 41 HIGH-fIBER fooD 42 lonGTImE “mASTERpIEcE THEATER” HoST AlISTAIR 43 DEcREE THAT SpEllS THInGS ouT 46 nIGHTTImE SHInDIG 49 Tv wARRIoR pRIncESS 50 onE’S TouGHEST cRITIcS, ofTEn, AnD, lITERAllY, THREE DIffEREnT woRDS HIDDEn In 21-, 26- AnD 43-AcRoSS 53 InTERnET lETTERS 56 uSES A STRAw 57 fAIRY TAlE START 58 D-DAY BEAcH 60 pRomoTE BIG-TImE 61 SlAnGY TuRnARounDS 62 poE’S “EBonY BIRD”

63 TInY HIll BuIlDERS 64 cRITERIA: ABBR. 65 TRAppED on A BRAncH

Down

1 cAGER-TuRnEDRAppER o’nEAl, fAmIlIARlY 2 olD GRump 3 HAYwIRE 4 “pIckED” complAInT 5 olYmpIAnS In RED, wHITE AnD BluE 6 AnDRE of TEnnIS 7 nETAnYAHu of ISRAEl, fAmIlIARlY 8 “SquAwk on THE STREET” AIRER 9 “HuH?” 10 ouTfIElDER’S cRY 11 B In cHEmISTRY 12 “poppYcock!”

13 DoRIToS Scoopful 22 “wHAT cAn BRown Do foR You?” SHIppInG co.

23 mAnHATTAn’S __-fonTAnnE THEATRE 24 mR. pEAnuT pRop 26 vIETnAm nEIGHBoR 27 GolDEn flEEcE vESSEl

28 SuSpEnDERS AlTERnATIvE 29 wHAT A HounD followS 30 wITH 53-Down, STADIum fAnS’ RHYTHmIc moTIon 33 YAnkEE InfIElDER, To fAnS 34 RIDE THE HARlEY 35 copYcAT 37 HEARTREnDInG 38 ScAvEnGInG pEST 39 cARToon EXploRER 41 unclE REmuS’S __ foX 42 monARcH’S SpouSE 43 TEARS (AwAY) fRom 44 SupERABunDAncE 45 mAIDEn nAmE InTRo 46 SlAnGY SIBlInG 47 BulB In A GARDEn 48 ADDITIon To THE convERSATIon 51 ATTEnDInG To A TASk 52 lIkE SomE coffEE oR TEA 53 SEE 30-Down 54 RollER coASTER cRY 55 HAnD-HElD ScAnnER 59 vAnDAlIzE

librA

SEpTEmBER 24 To ocToBER 23

Mysteries may intrigue you this week. Connect the dots and you can get a better idea of what’s going on in your home and family. Some people may surprise you with unexpected decisions and unusual opportunities.

sAgittArius

novEmBER 23 To DEcEmBER 22

Listen to your inner voice and follow your dreams. Link up with people who you deem to be honest and truthful.

Partnering with the right person this week could improve your financial situation.

AquArius

JAnuARY 21 To fEBRuARY 19

Listen with your heart instead of your head in the upcoming week. A tendency to get sidetracked by inconsequential matters may block intuitive knowledge that could help you succeed. Avoid impulsive purchases.

Sudoku

tAurus

A p R I l 2 1 T o m AY 2 1

Your social and business instincts are right on target this week. Because you appear eager to please others, they in turn are likely to deal fairly with you. You’ll be able to strike a favorable and satisfactory bargain.

cAncer

J u n E 2 2 T o J u lY 2 2

Keep your eye on the ball. Follow through with financial stratagems in the week ahead. Rely on your own intelligence and insights to stay ahead of the competition.

virgo

AuGuST 22 To SEpTEmBER 23

Keep your head held high and don’t duck responsibilities, even when fun beckons in the week ahead. Romance may be in the air, even if business or career matters hit a low point.

scorpio

ocToBER 24 To novEmBER 22

Keep in touch with that special someone in the week ahead and maintain a romantic mood. Tasks that require deep concentration will be easy to accomplish and satisfy a need for privacy.

cApricorn

DEcEmBER 23 To JAnuARY 20

Your enthusiasm is balanced by honorable intentions, and that can make a world of difference when skillful negotiations are needed this week. Take advantage of opportunities to successfully come to a compromise.

pisces

fEBRuARY 20 To mARcH 20

Chasing the fast buck could put you at a disadvantage.

Mixing business and pleasure might not be in your best interest in the early part of the week. Listen to a special someone who’s wiser than usual.

Jumble

Tribune Content Agency 2014

PreviouS Puzzle’S anSwerS

PreviouS Puzzle’S anSwerS

PreviouS Puzzle’S anSwerS

Jumbles:

• HABIT • STEED • JERSEY • GRASSY

Answer:

SHE followED THE DIET Book BEcAuSE IT wAS -EASY To “DIGEST”

Thursday, December 11, 2014

page 11

>> INSIDE: Maine south moves to 6-0 on season page 13

Boys hoops

Tourney title Notre Dame takes home Battle of the Bridge hardware

By mike sandrolini sports reporter

mike@nilesbugle.com @Voyager_Sport

Last March, a fledgling Notre Dame squad that started a junior and three sophomores faced Evanston for a regional title, and the Wildkits ended the Dons’ season.

Well, those starters have grown up, literally and figuratively. And they went up against Evanston Nov. 28 with another title on the line: the Battle of the Bridge Thanksgiving tourney at Lane Tech.

The Dons exacted revenge against the Wildkits (who beat them twice last season), in convincing fashion, storming out to a 20-2 first-quarter lead en route to a 65-50 victory. The win sealed a string of four straight triumphs to open the season for the Dons, who made it five in the Ridgewood Classic on Sunday and start their ESCC campaign Dec. 12, hosting Nazareth.

Guard Joe Mooney, the junior starter from last year’s group, has grown two inches (he’s 6-3) and added around 15 to 20 pounds of muscle since last season. He led the Dons with 18 points, including a drive and three-point play with 6.6 seconds left that capped Notre Dame’s dominant first quarter.

“I put a lot of work in the offseason and it’s paid dividends,” Mooney said. “As juniors and sophomores, we were the guys last year and now we’ve got a year under our belts and a year of experience.

We had five sophomores on the

varsity team last year and now they’re playing like seniors and they’re playing huge for us.”

Elvin Husejnovic, one of those sophs last winter, enabled the Dons to pull away with 2:56 left in the first quarter, 12-0, by sinking consecutive three-pointers.

A putback-tip-in by another sophomore-turned-junior, 6-7 Anthony D’Avanzo, made it 140, and sophomore Matt Stritzel canned another trey, lifting Notre Dame to a 17-0 advantage.

Evanston finally got its first points of the contest with 45.4 seconds to go in the period.

“We played awfully well in the first quarter,” said Notre Dame coach Tom Les. “I think Wednesday night kind of set the tone for today.

The last three minutes Wednesday night we played with a sense of urgency. We wanted to start this game with this same sense of urgency.

“Our starters for the first four minutes were awfully good defensively, and when you make good plays on defense, the basket seems to get a little bigger at the other end.”

The game to which Les is referring was the Dons’ 79-78 victory versus Harlan on Nov. 26.

The Dons trailed 70-61 at one point, but fought back and won it on rugged 6-5, 225-pound junior Ammar Becar’s layup with three seconds left.

Becar had 16 points and 10

see dons | page 15

photo by Mike Sandrolini

Ammar Becar scored 12 points in Notre Dame’s win over Evanston Nov. 28.

Thursday, D ecember 11, 2014

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

12

Thursday, Decem ber 11, 2014 | ni lesbug le.com

GIRLS hoops

Niles North hands upstart Wolves OT loss By mike sandrolini sports reporter

mike@buglenewspapers.com @Voyager_Sport

Off to its best start since allAmerican Jewell Loyd worked her magic at Niles West, the Wolves girls basketball team had District 219 rival Niles North on the ropes late in regulation last Saturday evening during the two schools’ annual Basketball Jamboree.

The Wolves, winners of six of their first seven games, were nursing a 48-47 lead with 12.1 seconds to go thanks to a driving layup from senior guard Katherine DeLara. Niles West, however, ended up missing three free throws in the closing seconds which opened the door for Niles North to tie the contest at 48 and send it into overtime.

In OT, the Vikings held Niles West without a field goal and went on to win, 57-52.

“It’s one of our mantras when we’re in practice,” said Niles West coach Tony Konsiewicz. “We want to finish a game off on the line. (In this game) we miss one; we get an offensive rebound and get fouled again (but miss the free throws).

You’ve got to figure out a way to get a victory.

“Give Niles North a lot of credit.

They were a fresher team and they wanted the game more than we did, there’s no doubt about it.”

The Vikings led 38-31 late in the third period, but the Wolves put together a 10-1 run and established their first lead since the second quarter, 41-39, following a putback and three-point play from senior forward Julia Easter, who finished with 12 points.

Prior to letting Niles North back into the game late, Niles West’s upped its advantage to 46-42 with 2:04 to play on a steal and basket by junior Nicole Lopatin.

The Wolves had some open looks in overtime, but couldn’t get any shots to fall.

“We were really looking to take our shots and I thought we really did lose our composure tonight,” Konsiewicz said. “For kids that have been around us on varsity for three years, I thought we lost composure.”

Niles West did a good job of containing Niles North star forward Kienya Jones in regulation. She had 10 points at intermission, and was held to two points in the second half. Jones, though, sparked the

PHOTO BY Mike sandrolini

Hilma Mededovic scored seven points for Niles West in a loss to Niles North Saturday.

Vikings with four points in OT and totaled 16 for the game.

“We did OK in the second half,” Konsiewicz said. “We tried to double down a little more and tried to collapse on her a little bit, but we just really didn’t finish off the ballgame when we had a chance to.”

The Wolves may have the smallest backcourt in the area with DeLara at 5-3, and 5-2 junior Jaylnn Estrada, but the duo provides Niles West with constant defensive pressure on the ball as well as timely scoring. They combined for 22 points Saturday night, with Estrada scoring a team-high 15.

DeLara laughed afterward that being listed at 5-3 in the program is a bit generous.

“I’m actually five feet,” she said.

DeLara and other Wolves veterans have endured some tough times the past two seasons, winning a combined 12 games over that span.

“This year has been really different,” DeLara said. “I think our team chemistry is really good.

There’s a lot of girls that have a lot of experience, and that’s shown to be a strength of ours.”

Complementing the Wolves’ lineup this season is 5-11 senior transfer student Hilma

Mededovic, who’s from Bosina and Herzegovina. Mededovic had seven points vs. Niles North, but she’s been one of the Wolves’ scoring leaders.

The biggest adjustment Mededovic said she’s had to make basketball-wise is the emphasis on more one-on-one play in America compared to European basketball.

“It’s a lot different,” she said, “and it’s more aggressive. In Europe we play two-on-two and three-on-three. I’m trying to be as good a team player as I can. I have more experience and I try to coach the other players and make them better.”

Last Friday, the Wolves also went to overtime and defeated Evanston, one of the better clubs in the CSL South, 45-40, in their conference opener. Mededovic continued her strong play, leading all scorers with 17 points. Easter contributed 13 points and DeLara seven.

Niles West battled back to win despite scoring just two field goals in the first half, yet the Wolves went 14 of 18 from the line.

On Dec. 2, the Wolves crushed Glenbrook North, 54-35, as Jalynn Estrada led a trio of double-figure scorers with 14 points. Easter added 13 and Mededovic finished with 12 points and six rebounds.

INSTAGRAM: Readers, attending a game in your area? Take a photo and tag @buglenewspapers for a chance to be featured!

T h ursday, Decem ber 11, 2014 | ni lesbug le.com

13

boys hoops

The system is the solution for Hawks Maine South moves to 6-0 By mike sandrolini sports reporter

mike@buglenewspapers.com @Voyager_Sport

Fresh off their Maine West Thanksgiving tourney championship, the Hawks took on a familiar foe in a CSL crossover game to begin last week: Niles North.

The two squads have faced each other six times over the past three seasons, with the Hawks defeating the Vikings for a regional title last year, and bowing to them two years ago in the sectional semifinals.

“We’ve had some epic games,” said Maine South coach Tony Lavorato. “It’s never really been more than a couple of points either way. Their system versus our system; two totally unique extremes yet they do it so well and we do our system pretty well, too.”

Last week’s contest was once again close, but at the final buzzer, it was Maine South’s system that prevailed. The Hawks (6-0) shook off some timely perimeter shooting by the Vikings (4-1), who made nine three-pointers, to win, 59-53.

How good is the system for Maine South? Only two Hawks’ baskets were the result of outside jumpers. The rest came via inside buckets from 6-7 George Sargeant and 6-4 Davis Neilands, or on back-door layups.

“When it comes down to it, our trust in the system is the key,” said Sargeant, one of four Hawks in double figures with 13 points.

“We were able to trust our system to win. We weren’t hitting our free throws and we weren’t necessarily playing completely under control like we will later in the season, but our belief in the system definitely pushed this.”

The Hawks were 50 percent from the free-throw line—a stat on which they obviously need to improve.

“I don’t think we were very good from the free-throw line,” Lavorato said. “We’ve got to be a little bit better. There’s no excuse for that.

We need to be above 70 percent.

And that opened the door a little bit. And also we had way too many turnovers. We had 17 and that’s given them extra possessions,

PHOTO BY mike sandrolini

Caleb deMarigny and Maine South are 6-0 on the season. too.”

The Hawks appeared to be on the verge of blowing out the Vikings after scoring nine straight to end the first quarter and taking an 11-4 lead. But the Vikings, thanks to five second-quarter three-pointers, closed the gap to 28-22 at intermission.

The Hawks’ matchup zone left Niles North with few options but to shoot from long range, but to the Vikings’ credit, they made enough treys to keep it close.

“They hit a nice shot percentage,” Lavorato said.

Vikings guard Diondre Williams’ three-pointer early in the second half made it 28-25, but the Hawks slowly increased their lead throughout the remainder of the

see hawks | page 15

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

14

Thursday, Decem ber 11, 2014 | ni lesbug le.com

roundup

Niles West boys hold off Niles North Maine South girls hoops top Deerfield By mike sandrolini sports reporter

mike@buglenewspapers.com @Voyager_Sport

In the nightcap of 2014 Niles West vs. Niles North Basketball Jamboree held last Saturday at Niles North, the visiting Wolves boys basketball squad held off the Vikings, 74-71, in front of a capacity crowd.

Junior guard Jojo Rios sank two free throws with 8 seconds left, giving the Wolves a 74-70 lead.

Just before Rios’ free throws, Craig Dawkins of Niles North made it a two-point contest after driving in for a bucket and converting a three-point play.

“It’s just like practice,” Rios said.

“I have to hit my free throws like I do in practice, so it was nothing.

Nothing went through my head; just me making them.”

The Wolves built up a 6149 advantage on sophomore Octavius Parker’s jumper two

minutes into the fourth quarter, but Niles North outscored West1810 from that juncture. Malik Dupree’s basket off of a Niles West turnover got the Vikings to within four (71-67) with 1:07 to go.

Rios was one of four Wolves in double figures with 17 points.

Parker, a transfer from Gordon Tech, and junior Evans Hines each scored 16, and Odi Audisho tallied 15.

“It’s great to have an atmosphere like this early in the season to say, ‘Hey, down the road, we can be in games like this and win games like this,’ ” said Niles West coach Bob Williams, whose team is 3-3.

•Maine East dropped to 1-4 on the year Dec. 2 after losing to Evanston, 47-39. The Demons, who held a 28-25 lead in the third quarter, were led in scoring by Ezeka Omeka with 17 points.

GIRLS BASKETBALL Maine South heads into this

week 4-4, 0-1 on the year after topping Deerfield, 54-28, on Dec. 2 and suffering a 48-38 loss to Glenbrook South in its CSL South opener last Saturday.

Sam Fagenholz was the leading scorer for Maine South against Deerfield with 14 points, including four three-pointers.

Nina Anderson added 12 points and Riley Eckhart pulled down nine rebounds.

Versus Glenbrook South, Fagenholz went five of seven from the arc and finished with 15 points. Julia Spuria had seven points and six rebounds; Anderson and Eckhart had six points apiece.

•Maine East fell victim to Evanston, 65-29, in a CSL crossover contest Dec. 2. Janelle Alba Garner netted 12 points for the Demons (2-4).

The Demons were within five points of Deerfield twice during their 47-35 loss in the CSL North opener last Friday, but couldn’t get over the hump. Alba-Garner again led Maine East with 18

points and five steals. Maddie McTague contributed eight points and eight rebounds.

“We just didn’t play fundamentally sound or smart basketball (vs. Deerfield),” said Maine East coach Karol Hanusiak.

“Evanston, they were athletic and faster than us; they’re just better than us. We’re young and have little varsity experience. I think we’re going to get better; it’s just going to be a process and we have to be patient with that.”

WRESTLING Notre Dame, coming off a 25-5 dual meet record a year ago, recently started its 2014-15 season with a triangular meet victory over Hinsdale South and Glenbard East.

The Dons flattened Hinsdale South 61-16 and edged Glenbard East 31-30, to start the year 2-0.

On Nov. 28 and 29, Notre Dame competed at the Antioch Tournament.

Despite being without standouts such as returning three-time state qualifier Jimmy Gallardo at 113 pounds, 138-pounder Jake Barzowski, Tom Reneir (152) and returning state qualifier Marco Orlandi (171), the Dons finished 4-1 in the dual portion of the tournament Nov. 28.

The Dons defeated Kenosha Indian Trails 45-21, Antioch 4519, Grayslake Central 46-27 and West Aurora 33-31. Their only loss was to Deerfield, 47-21.

The next day, Notre Dame wrestled in the individual tournament and placed all 13 wrestlers.

Among the top individual performers were Dino Gutierrez at 138 and heavyweight Frank Pavlik, each of whom placed second. Gutierrez went 8-2, losing twice to Deerfield’s state-ranked Andrew Mehrholz. Pavlik finished 8-1, losing in the finals to stateranked Tyler Cooke of Hersey, 2-1 in double overtime.

Andy Poniatowski (120) and Lucas Mueller (126) each placed third as both finished with 7-2 records. Brian Brand (195) also took third, and finished 8-1.

Last Saturday, the Dons (8-2 in duals) wrestled in a tripledual at Glenbrook North, routing the host school 62-12, defeating Addison Trail 39-27 and losing to Conant, the No. 7-ranked team in Illinois according to Illinois Matmen, 41-27.

Gallardo, Poniatowski, Orlandi, Brand and heavyweight Matt Bernal each went 3-0 on the day for the Dons.

INSTAGRAM: Readers, attending a game in your area? Take a photo and tag @buglenewspapers for a chance to be featured!

T h ursday, Decem ber 11, 2014 | ni lesbug le.com hawks | from page 13 period. Sargeant’s steal and twohanded dunk with 5.4 seconds to go in the third gave Maine South a 44-36 edge.

A 10-4 Niles North run to begin the final quarter enabled the Vikings to pull within six at 50-44.

Then, the Vikings went on a 7-2 run, capped by another Williams’

dons | from page 11 boards, and Mooney fired in 24 points—a total that included six three-pointers.

Becar, who scored 12 points in last Friday’s championship game, sank a short jumper that helped the Dons hold off a fourth-quarter run by the Wildkits and gave them a 49-35 lead. Evanston started the

15

trey, to slice the Hawks lead to one point, 52-51, with 3:06 to go.

However, Maine South went back door for layups on its next two possessions—the first from Caleb deMarigny to Sargent, and the next from Neilands to deMarigny—to lead 56-53. Free throws from Sargeant and Jon Arenas in the final 42 seconds shut

the door on Niles North.

Arenas and deMarigny each finished with 14 points, while Neilands had 11 points and six rebounds. deMarigny also dished out eight assists.

“We’ve got veteran kids and they’re able to play,” Lavorato said.

“Arenas has never been asked to step up and hit free throws before

so it was a good test for all of our kids, and Caleb and George are Caleb and George. I thought they were pretty solid.”

Sargeant also had a team-high eight rebounds, with Nick Ruben corralling seven and Neilands six.

“It (having experienced players) helps us in games like this,” Sargeant said. “We all have had

our fair share of time within the system so we’ve all been able to grow and learn the system.”

Maine South, behind Arenas’ 16 points and eight steals and Sargeant’s 13 points and eight boards, breezed past Waukegan, 64-42, in its CSL South opener last Saturday night. Neilands also had 13 points for the winners.

quarter outscoring the Dons, 9-3.

“Evanston was more experienced than us last year coming in,” said Becar, who recorded doubledoubles in three of the Dons’ first four games. “We were all sophomores and we just wanted to get better as time went on.

Experience is a big part of it and that’s what we understand as a

team and we’re going to keep moving on.”

Not only are the Dons more experienced, they can go at least 10 players deep. Les can install a larger or smaller lineup as he sees fit this season. In addition to the players already mentioned, there’s junior returning starter Lucas Simon; junior Donte Washington,

who saw significant playing time; and seniors Bobby Cesario and Dan Messina—both of whom started against Evanston.

“Guys are battling for playing time,” Les said. “Our bench has been very good. Our practices have been very competitive.

“We’re pretty unselfish. The guys play their roles and they’re not

worried about stats. In the first four games, I think those are the points that stick out to me.”

“Last year we struggled a little bit with depth, and we got in foul trouble sometimes and we struggled a little bit,” Mooney added. “This year, we’re subbing in fresh bodies left and right, and it’s huge for us.”

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

16

Thursday, decem ber 11, 2014 | ni lesbug le.com plainField east

q & a with local athletes

featurinG

gervon miles Bowling

What do you use twitter for?

Socialize with friends, try to stay up to date with everything. use it as something to do during free time.

andrew mccuTchen

how often do you tweet?

Like once every hour and a half. But I try to tweet something relevant.

Do you have a favorite account to follow?

I follow the Bulls organization so I can stay up to date and if I don’t watch the game I know what happens.

How many games will the Bears win the rest of the year (after Cowboys game)?

answers: 0 - 12.5% 1 - 37.5% 2 - 37.5% 3 - 37.5% Which basketball team will remain unbeaten the longest?

PLAINFIELD NORTH BOYS • JOLIET CENTRAL BOYS • MAINE SOUTH BOYS • BENET GIRLS

boiSe State MenS bb @bRonCoSPoRtSMbb

@Taylor_Sports: Romeoville’s Chuck Hunter throws a pass around a Plainfield Central defender.

“Final: Boise State 82 Saint Mary’s 71. Derrick Marks with 22 to lead the Broncos. Snaps SMC’s 33-game nonconf home win streak.”

PnhS athletiCS @PnhSaD “Boys Basketball outscores Minooka 32-11 in 4th quarter to win 62-61! Trevor Stumpe 31 with 16 in 4th quarter! Record now 6-0!”

Steve MillSaPS @JolietWeStaD “Congrats to Lauren Stefanksi & Elexis Coleman on being named to the Bugle Newspapers All-Area Volleyball Team.”

Upcoming events in your area T h ursday, Decem ber 11, 2014 | ni lesbug le.com

the week ahead thursday

saturday

friday

december 11

december 12

december 13

december 14

Festival Trees.

Nov. 22 to Dec. 14 at Golf Mill Mall, 239 Golf Mill Center, Niles. Vote for your favorite decorated holiday tree by bringing in a nonperishable food item to the Customer Service Center or by liking your favorite tree on Facebook.

All food donations go to benefit the Maine Township Food Pantry.

Gingerbread House Decorating.

6:30-8 p.m. at the Maine Park Leisure Center, 2701 W. Sibley St., Park Ridge. Come and decorate your very own gingerbread house.

All the cookies, candy, and frosting is provided. Just bring your imagination.

Registration required.Cost: Resident $27/ nonresident $30. For more information or to register, visit www. parkridgeparkdistrict.com or call 847-692-5127.

Breakfast with Santa.

8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at the HLC banquet room.

Join Santa for his annual breakfast buffet with Niles Park District. Every year, Santa makes a stop at the Howard Leisure Center, to enjoy breakfast, visit, and of course pictures with the children. It’s a jolly time.

Register early, spaces fill up fast! All adults and children in attendance must register for this event. Fee: Residents $10/nonresident $12. To register, visit www. niles-parks.org.

Skate with Santa.

1-2 p.m. at the Oakton Ice Arena, 2800 W. Oakton, Park Ridge. All Ages. Complimentary candy canes for all kids who attend. All skaters will be entered into a drawing to win two tickets to a Chicago Wolves hockey game. For more information, visit www. parkridgeparkdistrict.com or call 847-692-5127.

DECEMBER 12

Gingerbread House Decorating. 6:30-8 p.m. at the Maine Park Leisure Center, 2701 W. Sibley St., Park Ridge. Come and decorate your very own gingerbread house. All the cookies, candy, and frosting is provided. Just bring your imagination. Registration required.

Cost: Resident $27/ nonresident $30.

For more information or to register, visit www.parkridgeparkdistrict. com or call 847-692-5127.

Holiday Concert Extravaganza. 7 p.m. at Maine South High School, 1111 S. Dee Road, Park Ridge. For more information, visit south.maine207.org.

DECEMBER 13

Breakfast with Santa. 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at the HLC banquet room. Join Santa for his annual breakfast buffet with Niles Park District. Every year, Santa makes a stop at the Howard Leisure Center, to enjoy breakfast, visit, and of course pictures with the children.

It’s a jolly time. Register early, spaces fill up fast! All adults and

children in attendance must register for this event. Fee: Residents $10/ nonresident $12. To register, visit www.niles-parks.org.

Santa’s Holiday Express. 10:50 a.m. to 2 p.m. Join Santa and his holiday crew as they sing songs, talk with Santa, play games and enjoy face painting. Please bring a nutfree sack lunch to enjoy as Santa reads us a story. Attendees will stay on Santa’s Holiday Express train all the way to Santa’s barn (Harvard) where it turns around and heads back home to Park Ridge at the Dee Road station. Times are subject to change with Metra. Please arrive 10 minutes early to check in. Fee: Residents $21/nonresident $31. For more information or to register, visit www.parkridgeparkdistrict.com or call 847-692-5127.

DECEMBER 14

Skate with Santa. 1-2 p.m. at the Oakton Ice Arena, 2800 W. Oakton, Park Ridge. All Ages.

Complimentary candy canes for all kids who attend. All skaters will be entered into a drawing to win two tickets to a Chicago Wolves hockey

game. For more information, visit www.parkridgeparkdistrict.com or call 847-692-5127.

Winter Concert. 2-4 p.m. at Maine East High School, 2601 W. Dempster St., Park Ridge. For more information, visit east.maine207. org.

Holiday Exhibition. 4:40-8 p.m. at the Oakton Ice Arena, 2800 W. Oakton, Park Ridge. Don’t miss this special exhibition featuring participants from Oakton Ice Arena’s Competitive Edge and Learn-ToSkate programs skating to holiday themed music. Formore information, visit www.parkridgeparkdistrict. com or call 847-692-5127.

DECEMBER 19

Swim with Santa. 6-8 p.m. at the Park Ridge Park District’s Community Center, 1515 W. Touhy Ave. Santa is spending an evening at the Community Center Pool relaxing before his big day. Join Santa to swim, sing holiday songs, and play reindeer games. Don’t miss your last chance to tell Santa what good girls and boys you have been all year. Fee:

tuesday

monday

sunday

december 15

december 16

What it Means for Students to Be Good Digital Citizens. 6:307:30 p.m. at Jefferson School, 8200 Greendale, Niles. Park Ridge-Niles School District 64 invites parents and community members to explore what it means for students to be good “digital citizens” at this Parent University program. This program is especially geared for parents of students in grades 3-8. Learn about the District’s Internet Safety curriculum and how to talk to your child about being safe on the Internet.

Residents $6/nonresident $9. For more information or to register, visit www.parkridgeparkdistrict.com or call 847-692-5127.

DECEMBER 21

Santa Skate. 2:30-4 p.m. at IceLand, 8435 Ballard, Niles. Come to IceLand and skate with Santa and his elves to Holiday songs. Event is for children, adults and families.

Fee: $5, Skate Rental: $3. For more information, call 847-967-6633 or visit www.niles-parks.org.

DECEMBER 31

New Year’s Eve Skate. Noon-2 p.m. at IceLand, 8435 Ballard, Niles.

Celebrate New Year’s Eve at IceLand.

Fun music, hats, noise makers and games for the kids. Countdown and toast at “midnight.” Event is for children, adults and families.

Fee: $5, Skate Rental: $3. For more information, call 847-967-6633 or visit www.niles-parks.org.

New Year’s Eve 100th AnniversaryCelebration.5-8 p.m. at the Park Ridge Park District’s Community Center, 1515 W. Touhy Ave. Kick off the New Year family

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Advanced Excel 2010.

7:00 PM • Morton Grove Public Library • 6140 Lincoln Ave. • Morton Grove , IL 60053 • 847965-4220 • Hands-on workshop covers creating charts and using tables to sort and filter data.

Registration limited to six. Morton Grove residents have priority.

Prerequisite: Do More with Excel 2010 workshop, or a thorough understanding of Excel 2010 required.

Registration for all classes in this series opens: 9 a.m. Nov. 18. For more information or to register, go to calendar.mgpl.org or call 847-929-5101.

style! Bring out the whole family for a fabulous New Year’s Eve event.

Enjoy together a fantastic dinner & dessert buffet, DJ entertainment, inflatables, tot play area, miniature golf, and of course, a fabulously fun countdown to midnight (8pm). Grab your family and friends and sign up today to guarantee your spot in this wonderful New Year’s event. This is a family oriented event, alcohol is not permitted. Fee is per person and all children must be accompanied by an adult. No at-the-door registration.

Registration deadline: December 20.

Fee: Residents/nonresidents $17.

For more information or to register, visit www.parkridgeparkdistrict. com or call 847-692-5127.

ONGOING

Festival Trees. Nov. 22 to Dec. 14 at Golf Mill Mall, 239 Golf Mill Center, Niles. Vote for your favorite decorated holiday tree by bringing in a non-perishable food item to the Customer Service Center or by liking your favorite tree on Facebook. All food donations go to benefit the Maine Township Food Pantry.

News about local businesses in your community

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Thursday, Decem ber 11, 2014 | ni lesbug le.com

dave says

A properly budgeted Christmas is definitely possible You can have a wonderful, loving, quality Christmas without spending a lot of money Dear Dave, My wife and I are still paying off debt, so we didn’t budget anything for Christmas. How much do you think we should spend on close friends and family members?

Dan Dear Dan, Not having a budget for Christmas probably isn’t a great idea if you want to have a happy marriage! It’s really not that difficult. I don’t know if there’s a certain amount that works for everyone, because everybody’s circumstances are different. But you must have a plan when holidays or other special occasions come along — especially when you’re trying to get out of debt.

If you have kids, you certainly

need to budget for them. They may not get everything they want, but there’s no reason there can’t be something from Santa under the tree. You also need to budget a little something for your spouse.

The good thing is you can have a little fun with these gifts and make them more from the heart than the wallet.

What if you gave your wife a coupon that says you’ll cook a real dinner for her and the kids once a week for the next three months? Or perhaps it’s a voucher for a free back rub any time she’s feeling stressed and tired. Maybe you could find a nice but inexpensive frame and put a favorite picture of the two of you inside. Things that come from the

heart, or that include little Dear Dave, acts of kindness or serving My husband and I the other person, can go are looking at getting a a long way. Those kinds second vehicle. We found of things are especially one we like, and it’s in meaningful to most folks great shape, but they’re during the holiday season. asking more than we can Trust me, Dan. You can Dave Says afford to pay. How do you have a wonderful, loving, money advice by make a low offer without quality Christmas without dave ramsey making someone angry spending a lot of money. or insulting them?

You’ll have to spend a little here Angela and there, but just make sure it’s an Dear Angela, amount that’s appropriate for your It’s always a smart move to try and financial situation. If you’re making stay on the seller’s good side. You $200,000 and trying to get out of want to be classy and diplomatic, debt, that’s one thing. But if you’re and never point out the bad things making $20,000 a year and trying about an item someone’s selling just to get out of debt, you need to do to drive down the price. If you insult things that are creative and don’t their merchandise or insinuate the require a lot of cash! price is unfair, you’re likely to blow —Dave the whole deal right off the bat.

How about this? Tell them it’s a Bargaining with fine vehicle, and their price is fair, respect

but the amount they’re asking is outside your budget. Let them know how much you want to work out a deal, but, in order for it to fit into your lifestyle, you can only pay a certain amount. You might throw in that a lot of people are selling things right now because of the economy, and you’re just looking for the very best deal.

Maybe that, and letting them know you’re standing there with money in hand, will help swing this thing in your favor. Good luck, Angela!

—Dave

* Dave Ramsey is America’s trusted voice on money and business. He has authored five New York Times best-selling books: Financial Peace, More Than Enough, The Total Money Makeover, EntreLeadership and Smart Money Smart Kids. The Dave Ramsey Show is heard by more than 8 million listeners each week on more than 500 radio stations. Follow Dave on Twitter at @DaveRamsey and on the web at daveramsey.com.

T h u r s d ay, D e ce mb e r 1 1 , 2 0 1 4 | ni le s b ug le .co m Business & Private Party Classified Ads: $16 per week, 20 words or less. Weddings, Births & Engagements: Black & White - $25, Color - $35. Obituaries: $35.

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Upcoming events for Seniors in the community

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Thursday, Decem ber 11, 2014 | ni lesbug le.com LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF PROPOSED PROPERTY TAX LEVY FOR MORTON GROVE SCHOOL DISTRICT NO. 70 I. A public hearing to approve a proposed property tax levy for Morton Grove School District No. 70 for 2014 will be held on December 15, 2014 at 7:30p.m. at Park View School, 6200 Lake Street, Morton Grove, Illinois.

And person desiring to appear at the public hearing and present testimony to the taxing district may contact Dr. Phil Collins (847/965-6200).

II.The corporate and special purpose property taxes extended or abated for the year 2013 were $11,139,304.

The proposed corporate and special purpose property taxes to be levied for 2014 are $11,285,125. This represents a 3.43% increase over the previous year.

III. The property taxes extended for debt service and public building commission leases for 2013 were $556,055.

The estimated property taxes to be levied for debt service and public building commission leases for 2014 are $529,976.

This represents a -4.69% increase over the previous year.

IV. The total property taxes extended or abated for 2013 were $11,665,537.

The estimated total property taxes to be levied for 2014 are $11,815,101. This represents a 3.03% increase over the previous year.

Public notice shall be given in the Champion, being a newspaper of general circulation in said District, and a public hearing shall be held, all in the manner and time prescribed in said notice, which notice shall be published not more than 14 days nor less than 7 days prior to said hearing, and shall be not less than 1/8 page in size, with no smaller than twelve (12) point, enclosed in a black border not less than ¼ inch wide and in substantially the following form.

Published in the Bugle 12/11/14

Niles Senior Center For a detailed description of programs & activities or to ask about membership or registration requirements, please check the Naturally Active Program Guides or call the Niles Senior Center at 588-8420.

Information about the Niles Senior Center can be found on the Village of Niles Website at www.vniles.com. Click on “Departments” (upper left), and then Click on “Senior” You can now see what’s new at the Senior Center.

Advanced registration is required for programs.

For a detailed description of programs & activities or to ask about membership or registration requirements, call the Niles Senior Center at 847588-8420 Individuals must be a registered member of the Niles Senior Center to receive the member price. Non members are invited to participate in programs at the non-member price. For more information about membership and programs, contact the Senior Center.

Issues in the News • 9:30 to 11:30 a.m. Thursdays This dynamic, refreshing class is led by long time leader of this program, Arlene Golub. This group is filled with folks from all walks of life, retired or not, who want to keep abreast of a broad spectrum of what is occurring locally and worldwide. Issues for discussion are brought up by class participants, and everyone’s opinion is valued.

Please call the NSC at 847-5888420 for more information.

Got the dot?

It may save your life Assist first responders with the information they need.

Become part of the Illinois Dot Program.

The Illinois Dot Program is a statewide initiative designed to provide vital medical information on vehicle drivers and passengers.

Information contained on the medical card can assist first responders in the “Golden Hour” immediately following a serious crash. This can very well mean the difference between life and death. For more information, please contact the Niles Senior Center (847 588-8420).

Park Ridge

ONGOING

Volunteer help needed at the reception desk of the Center of Concern in Park Ridge

volunteers needed

Volunteer help needed at the reception desk of the Center of Concern in Park Ridge. This 35 year old social service agency helps maintain senior citizens in their homes and provides housing

Social Bridge players needed!

Every Tuesday, 12:30pm, contact Jaymi at the Niles Senior Center for more information.

Table Tennis is now at the NSC! Come on in, and play some Table Tennis, also known as Ping Pong! Stop in at the Front Desk for more information.

Niles Rhythm Band members needed!

Keep a beat or sing along!

Everyone is welcome to join this fun band. Call 847-588-8420 for more information.

Stop in and check out the NEW Media Center!

There are 10 new laptops, and an iPad. Volunteer Assistance!

Drop-in Hours: • Mondays, 1-3 p.m.

• Tuesdays, 2-3 p.m.

• •

assistance enabling them to live with dignity and independence. Call Jim at 847-823-0453. Very flexible hours and other volunteer opportunities are available.

Thursdays, 2-3 p.m.

Fridays, 1-3 p.m.

Tax Volunteers Needed!

Volunteers are needed for the AARP Tax Aide Program. If you are interested in being trained to be an electronic filer, please contact Kelly Mickle at (847)5888420. Training takes place in early January. Tax appointments are scheduled from early February through mid-April.

Camelot at the Drury Lane Theatre Thursday, Dec. 11,10:30 a.m.-5 p.m. $65Mw/$70NM Adapted from T.H. White’s novel, The Once and Future King.

Camelot is a valiant Broadway musical that will transport audiences to the magical and mythical days of medieval England.

The legendary characters King Arthur, Queen Guinevere, Sir Lancelot and Merlin come alive

in this exciting tale of love and chivalry. The classic production features a lush, romantic score including “If Ever I Would Leave You”, “Camelot”, “How To Handle a Woman”, “Follow Me”.

Park Ridge Senior Center Senior Center Memberships Senior Center membership begins at age 55. Our quarterly new and prospective member meetings will you give information on the many activities, programs, events and services offered. Membership dues are: Single: $46 Resident, $65 NonResident Couple: $70 Resident, $99 Non-Resident Over 90 Single: $23 Resident, $32.50 Non-Resident

see seniors | page 21

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T h ur s day, Decem ber 11, 2014 | ni lesbug le.com seniors | from page 20 Over 90 Couple: $35 Resident, $49.50 Non-Resident Enjoy these Senior Center Membership benefits: Priority registration and special rates for Active Adult programs, events & trips; A drop-in social center open 7 days a week; Free members-only unique monthly programming and activities; A variety of free clubs for many interests and hobbies; Monthly Newsletter delivered to your home; and Volunteer Opportunities.

Enjoy these facility amenities as a Senior Center Member: Large meeting hall; Classrooms; Full service kitchen; Stage with sound system; Ceramic room and kiln; 2 large screen TVs; Game tables; 4 ping pong tables; Variety of solitary and group activities for member use; Members art displays; Free Lending Library; and Free Medical Lending Closet (limited quantities) For more information, call 847-692-3597.

Bridge If bridge is of interest there are several opportunities to enjoy the game. Groups meet on Friday mornings, Sunday afternoons, and Couple’s Bridge meets the first Thursday of the month. Call the Center at 847692-3597 for more information or to be put in touch with one of the group moderators.

Senior Center Clubs Men’s Club: 1st & 2nd Tuesday of the month. Join us as we plan fun and exciting events, as well as make a difference in our community.

Book Worms: 1st Thursday of the month, 1 p.m. Love to read? Join us every month for a discussion pertaining to a variety of books . One per month .

Camera Club: 4th Tuesday of the month, 10 a.m. Join our camera club as they provide instruction and interesting slideshows on a variety of different topics .

Money Matters with Chris Valentine: 1st & 3rd Monday of the Month, 10 a.m. Chris Valentine from Edward Jones presents a program of financial tips and answers your questions Opera Arts Club with Leo Rizzetto. 2nd & 4th Thursday of the month, Noon. Do you have a love for opera and/or musicals? Leo Rizzetto, opera

aficionado, presents a variety of majestic operas and toe tapping musicals.

Computer Club: 1st Wednesday of the month, 1:30 p.m. Need a computer refresher course or just help learning the computer? Join Richard Brandt as he leads the group . Come with questions.

Handicrafters: 1st Thursday of the month, 10 a.m. Do you knit, crochet, sew, quilt, crossstitch, or embroider? We make items for the Annual Holiday Bazaar and the V .A . Hospitals . We provide the supplies for these events, or you can work on your own project . Beginners are welcome!

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niles senior center

Ongoing activities Following are number of ongoing activities at the Center: • Woodcarvers meet Thursdays at 9 a.m.…a free activity: • Gamers, 1 to 4:30 p.m.

Fridays play dominos, hand and foot, scrabble for rummikube … also free.

• Ceramics students meet 9:30 a.m. to noon Mondays and Tuesdays and work on projects of your choice. There is a charge of $7 per class.

• Pinochle players meet the second Monday, Third Thursday and every Saturday of the month at 1 p.m.

• Table tennis players start play at 1 p.m. Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday. All abilities are welcome for this free activity.

• Have you ever thought of tap dancing? This is a fun way of exercising. The class is at 12:30 p.m. Tuesdays. The fee is $10 for members and $15 for nonmembers.

The Nutcracker Tuesday, Dec. 23, noon-6 p.m.

The Joffrey Ballet proudly presents Chicago’s most beloved holiday tradition! By the time the first act’s Land of Snow scene draws to a close, the stage is a true winter wonderland, complete with reigning Snow King, Queen and Prince, an ensemble of female Snowflakes, male Snow Winds, a chorus of tiny Snow Tree Angels holding flickering candles, and a theatrical snowfall. Transportation and tickets included.

Minimal walking. Departs from the Senior Center. Contact the Senior Center at 847-692-3597 for more information. Fee is $90 M/$99 Guest.

9:30 to 11:30 a.m. Thursdays 999 Civic Center Drive Niles, IL 60714

Issues in the News

This dynamic, refreshing class is led by long time leader of this program, Arlene Golub. This group is filled with folks from all walks of life, retired or not, who want to keep abreast of a broad spectrum of what is occurring

Morton Grove North Shore Senior Center

North Shore Senior Center’s Morton Grove Social Services Office has space in the American Legion Memorial Civic Center at 6140 Dempster Street.

Information and assistance is provided to individuals of all ages including access to public benefits, referrals for a variety of community programs, onsite and off-site support groups, and applications for the Village financial assistance program.

A monthly Caregiver Support Group meets on the fourth Wednesday of the month from 10 to 11:30 a.m.

On-site appointments are available for the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program, with Senior Health Insurance Program volunteers, and to discuss individual

locally and worldwide.

Issues for discussion are brought up by class participants, and everyone’s opinion is valued. Please call the NSC at 847588-8420 for more information.

concerns of all kinds.

Volunteer opportunities Do you have great people skills? Do you enjoy reception work? North Shore Senior Center in Morton Grove has opening for people to help at our front desk, greeting guests, directing calls, and assisting with registrations.

Please contact Volunteer Services at 847.784.6052 for details.

Senior Center membership Become a member of North

Shore Senior Center’s Morton Grove Campus and enjoy opportunities to live longer, happier, healthier lives through an array of programs, activities, trips and services. Members receive a discount on all programs, activities, and trips, Lifelong Learning Program Catalog, information on local, state, and federal issues affecting seniors, and invitations to special events and presentations.

see seniors | page 22

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22 seniors | from page 21 Membership dues are $20 for an individual and $35 for a couple/household for a full year. Everyone welcome! Call North Shore Senior Center’s Morton Grove Campus at 847470-5223 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. or stop by the Senior Center, 6140 Dempster Street in Morton Grove, to become a member.

Beyond Schindler’s List: Secret Lives Thursday, Dec. 11, 1–3:30 p.m.

Before World War II there were more than 1.5 million Jewish children living in Europe. After the Holocaust less than one in ten of them had survived.

Secret Lives is an awardwinning film that documents

Thursday, Decem ber 11, 2014 | ni lesbug le.com an emotional journey through time and place, exploring the complicated history of hidden children during the Holocaust.

The effect that hiding had on the children, their families, and rescuers is highlighted, and a variety of surprising experiences and realities are revealed in this extraordinary film. $9 member; $12 non-member. Call 847.470.5223 to register.

A Laugh A Day Friday, Dec. 12, 1-2 p.m.

Laughter therapy is a wellrecognized tool for healing and maintaining good mental health. Laughter can increase cardiovascular endurance, relieve stress, and release endorphins, which provide natural pain relief. Join certified laughter leader and member of

the World Laughter Tour, Kathy Kanter, as she demonstrates how to prevent ‘hardening of the attitudes’ and gives you tools to incorporate techniques into your daily routines. No fee. Call 847.470.5223 to register.

The Center of Concern

The mission of The Center of Concern is to provide housing assistance, support services, and counseling for seniors, the disabled, and others in need, enabling them to live with dignity and independence.

The Center’s web site is www. centerofconcern.org.

Volunteers needed Volunteer help needed at the

reception desk of the Center of Concern in Park Ridge. This 35 year old social service agency helps maintain senior citizens in their homes and provides housing assistance enabling them to live with dignity and independence.

Call Tracey at 847-823-0453 or email Tholmes@centerofconcern.org.

Very flexible hours and other volunteer opportunities are available.

Calendar of Events Unless otherwise noted, all services are offered at The Center of Concern offices at 1580 N. Northwest Hwy., Suite 310, in Park Ridge. For services that require an appointment, call 847-823-0453 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday through Thursday, or 9 a.m. to noon Friday.

Wills and Powers of Attorney Preparation of simple wills and durable powers of attorney for health care and property also is available by appointment.

Homeowners desiring additional income, companionship, or the ability to remain in their homes may wish to consider The Center of Concern’s shared housing program. Residents are matched with screened applicants who possess a temperament suitable to shared accommodations.

The Center of Concern also offers friendly visitors for the homebound, programs designed to prevent homelessness, and volunteer opportunities in the office and in the field.

The Center’s web site is www. centerofconcern.org.

Upcoming events for Seniors in the community T h ur s day, Decem ber 11, 2014 | ni lesbug le.com

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JILL ON MONEY

Affordable Care Act open enrollment, part deux

By Jill Schlesinger

tribune content agency

www.jillonmoney.com askjill@moneywatch.com

On November 15 (and through February 15, 2015), the second open-enrollment period began for individual health care coverage under the Affordable Care Act. Despite a dreadful rollout, during the first Open Enrollment period, 8 million individuals signed up for non-group coverage through federal and state Marketplaces. If you didn’t sign up for coverage in the first goround, you will be able to enroll for 2015 at HealthCare.Gov, which has been revamped for the new season. Note: If you want coverage starting January 1, you must enroll

by December 15.

If you signed up last year, use this time to renew or change policies and to ensure your current plan is still the best choice for you, especially if you are one of the approximately 85 percent of Marketplace enrollees who is receiving premium tax credits to make coverage more affordable.

(Remember that you claim the credit by filing a federal income tax return.)

While it may seem easy to renew coverage without updating, unless you update your income data, you won’t have accurate information about how much you are eligible for in tax credits and what your out-ofpocket premium contribution for a plan actually is. Additionally, if your income has increased, you may no longer be entitled to the credit, a fact that you don’t want to discover when you file taxes and have the nasty surprise of owning the government money! Even if your personal circumstances have not changed, the cost of your plan may rise next year.

PriceWaterhouseCooper’s Healthcare Institute found that on average, premiums for individual insurance plans are expected to increase by 6 percent in 2015, though actual changes and premium prices vary significantly across states.

Your cost of healthcare is not just measured in premiums, but in out of pocket expenses like deductibles, co-pays and coinsurance. All Marketplace plans are required to set a cap on total out of pocket spending for in-network services in a year. The maximum out of pocket cap for 2015 will increase to $6,600 for an individual ($13,200 for a family policy), compared to $6,350/$12,700 in 2014.

Another change for 2015 is the penalty for not having health care coverage. The fee is the higher of:

two percent of your income or $325 per adult/$162.50 per child, with a maximum penalty per family of $975. You’ll pay the fee on the federal income tax return you file for the year you don’t have coverage. If you don’t pay the fee, the IRS will hold back the amount of the fee from any future tax refunds, but there are no liens, levies, or criminal penalties for failing to pay it. According to the Kaiser Family Foundation, you may be exempt from the requirement to maintain qualified healthcare coverage if you: Cannot afford coverage (defined as those who would pay more than 8 percent of their household income for the lowest cost bronze plan available through the Marketplace) Are not a U.S. citizen, a U.S. national, or a resident alien lawfully present in the U.S. Had a gap in coverage for less than 3 consecutive months during the year Will not file a tax return because your income is below the tax filing threshold (In 2014 the tax filing thresholds are $10,150 for individuals and $20,300 for married filing jointly) Are unable to qualify for Medicaid because your state has chosen not to expand Participate in a health care sharing ministry or are a member of a recognized religious sect with objections to health insurance Are a member of a federally recognized Indian tribe Are incarcerated Kaiser also notes some exemptions must be obtained by applying directly to the Marketplace and those who may be eligible for exemptions and who have not yet applied for one can still do so before the end of the year.

Some exemptions can be claimed on the income tax return with IRS

Form 8965, though the exemption for people who don’t earn enough to file taxes is automatic.

Finally, if you need help, you can call the health insurance marketplace for assistance, at 1-800-

318-2596, where one of 14,000 customer service representatives (an increase of 1,000 from last year) can answer questions.

(Jill Schlesinger, CFP, is the Emmynominated CBS News Business Analyst.

A former options trader and CIO of an

investment advisory firm, Jill covers

the economy, markets, investing and anything else with a dollar sign on TV, radio (including her nationally syndicated radio show), the web and her blog, “Jill on Money.” She welcomes comments and questions at askjill@moneywatch.com.

Check her website at www.jillonmoney. com) (c) 2014 TRIBUNE CONTENT AGENCY, LLC

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