Niles 12-3-15

DECEMBER 3, 2015 VOL. 60 ISSUE 9

niles West has talent on the outside see page 7

NEWS Capital Ideas

Park Ridge narrows list of proposed capital projects

see page 3

NEWS raise the levy

Park Ridge plans to increase tax levy 1.08 percent

see page 3

OPINION

T

Special voices

Visible or invisible - Inclusion matters see page 5

SCHOOLS Winter Warnings

Area school districts announce shared winter guidelines see page 9

BUSINESS tIf totals

Niles designates $3.5 million for Milwaukee TIF projects

see page 10

Photo by Igor Studenkov | bugle Staff

niles residents roast marshmallows at a fire pit set up for the market.

he village of niles holly Jolly Market returned for a second year to offer more activities and entertainment, and attracting bigger crowds. the festival, which took place nov. 28, is part of Mayor andrew Przybylo’s effort to organize more community events throughout the village. Some of this year’s new features included a petting zoo, a marshmallow roasting fire pit and a storytime with Mrs. Claus for little kids. Similar to last year, the Christmas tree lighting was a major part of the event. but this time around, the tree lighting was accompanied by fireworks. hayley garard, the village’s communications and multimedia coordinator, said the number of people who attended increased dramatically from last year. the residents who spoke with the bugle said they enjoyed the festival, adding that this year’s event was an improvement.

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Thursday, Decem ber 3, 2015 | ni lesbug le.com

Photo by Igor Studenkov | Bugle Staff

Gemini Junior high school’s Gemini Idols Show Choir performs at this year’s Holly Jolly Market.

Niles festival kicks off holiday season continued from page 1 The Holly Jolly Market was organized by the village of Niles and the Niles Park District. As with last year, it took place at the Oasis Water Park grounds.

Most of the children’s activities took place inside the field house.

The nearby Home Depot location donated crafts supplies, allowing children and their families to hammer together wooden sleighs and do other crafts. Kids could get their faces painted and get their pictures taken with Santa Claus. Professional storyteller Debi Gajewski, of Niles, played Mrs.

Claus, entertaining children with stories.

Several activities also took place outside. Similar to last year, families got a chance to look inside the Niles Holly Trolley – a special holidaythemed bus that will run along Niles Free Bus routes throughout December. Attendees could also take a ride on a horse-pulled “sleigh” if they donated at least one nonperishable food item. The donations went to the Niles Department of Family Services food pantry.

The rest of the festival took place inside a tent that was set up south of the fieldhouse. Several local restaurants, including Dear Franks,

CiCi’s Pizza and Uni-Mart, provided food, while businesses from Niles and other northwest Cook County suburbs sold their wares.

Laura Moldovan, of Niles, makes scarves, hats and fashion accessories for kids and adults and sells them online through her Julia’s Design Web store. She said the Holly Jolly Market seemed like a good fit for her products.

“We just came because there are a lot of activities for kids [at the festival], and we have lots of items for kids,” Moldovan said.

Irene Culaping, of Chicago, was selling her photographs and paintings by artist Grace Lai.

Gulaping explained that she learned about the Holly Jolly Market while doing public relations work for the Uni-Mart.

“They invited Uni-Mart to be there, and I asked about being a vendor,” she said. “It sounded like so much fun, you know.”

Both Moldovan and Culaping said they enjoyed the festival.

The tent also served as a performance space. Gemini Junior High School’s Gemini Idols Show Choir was the first to perform. The Tempos band performed later that day, while Chicago-based band Zydeco Voodoo performed in the evening.

Janet Bishop, who is the director of communications for District 63, served on the committee that organized the festival. When the committee members were discussing possible entertainment options, Bishop suggested the choir.

At 5:30 p.m., village and park district officials gathered in front of the Christmas Tree. Przybylo invited librarian Neil O’Shea, who won the Citizen of the Year award at the 2015 Niles Night of Roses, to help light the tree. He also invited 10 students from Pisa, Italy, who were visiting Niles to come up to the podium.

Their visit was part of the Niles Sister Cities program. Pisa and Niles have been sister cities since 1991.

“I’m so lucky,” Przybylo told the crowd. “I’m so lucky to have the

best village, for the best employees ever. And I think you all are, too.”

Garard said the village was pleased with how many people attended Holly Jolly Market. And while she did not immediately know the total number of attendees, she said the fact that the activity table ran out of materials for sleighs suggested that number was significantly higher than last year.

“We had 250 sleigh kits and we’re already out,” said Garard. “[Home Depot employees] said they usually go through them in five hours. We went through them in [one] hour.”

Garard credited the rising attendance to word of month, as well as the fact that Holly Jolly Market offered more activities this time around.

“I think it’s only going to get bigger from here,” she said. “We’re incredibly excited.”

Margaret Markadas, who came to Holly Jolly Market with her daughter, Alexis, for a second year in a row said it was bigger and better than last year.

“It’s absolutely delightful,” Markadas said.

For Kim Jung and her family, this was a first time at the Holly Jolly Market. She said they lived near Oasis Park, and they decided to see what all the fuss was about.

“The sleigh ride was fun and got us into the spirit,” Jung said. “And storytime with Mrs. Claus was great.

Now, we’ll be coming every year.”

T h ur s day, decem ber 3, 2015 | ni lesbug le.com

3

city newS > park ridge

park ridge narrows list of future capital projects City council expected to give list final approval at April 2016 budget hearing By igor sTudeNkov bugle staff

nweditor@buglenewspapers.com @nilesilnews

The Park Ridge Finance Committee of the Whole approved staff recommendations for 2017 capital projects – but not before taking out four proposals.

The committee approved a total of $5,031,075 for future capital projects but removed a $100,000 police station renovation project, as well as three proposals that were added to the list last month.

While the police station project was canceled due to uncertainty over funding, the more recently introduced projects were removed because the costs were approximate.

Aldermen ultimately agreed that they needed additional research before being added to the list.

The Nov. 23 discussion was designed to give staff an idea as to what sort of projects the city would pursue prior to crafting its 2017 budget. The city council isn’t expected to give the list a final approval until an upcoming capital projects request budget hearing, which is expected to take place in April 2016.

The list of requested capital projects contained a number of proposals that deal with sidewalks, city-owned buildings, city computers and networks, and city vehicles.

The list included two projects that were requested by Ald. Roger Shubert, FourthWard, including the

installation of a new sound system at Hodges Park and streetscaping improvements for Northwest Highway, Devon Avenue, Prospect Avenue and Main Street. Acting Mayor Marty Maloney introduced a flood mitigation project for Northwest Park and Mayfield Estates areas.

FifthWardAld.DanielKnight,who chairs the committee, asked how the costs for the newly introduced projects were calculated. Wayne Zingsheim, director of the Park Ridge Department of Public Works, explained that the numbers were essentially placeholders.

Knight said he wouldn’t be inclined to support the projects until they were more developed.

“Without being specifically scoped out and priced as placeholders, I’m not sure why they’re in the capital budget,” Knight said.

While the committee agreed to remove the sound system and

council briefS > park ridge

City plans to raise tax levy By igor sTudeNkov bugle staff

nweditor@buglenewspapers.com @nilesilnews

The Park Ridge City Council approved setting the city’s tax levy at $21,930,994 - a 1.08 percent increase over last year.

The levy would include $4.9 million for the Park Ridge Public Library, $1.8 million for firefighter

pensions and $2.25 million for police department pensions. The pension numbers were set to include potential back pay that could kick in once all the union contracts are finalized. It was also calculated to ensure that Park Ridge would fully cover all of its pension obligations by 2040.

The Nov. 23 vote is just the first

see tax levy | page 4

the city would still have to pay the remaining 10 percent eventually, and by 2040, the sum would grow due to accumulated interest.

City Manager Shawn hamilton encouraged the aldermen to vote for the levy.

streetscaping projects from the list without much debate, the fate of the flood mitigation project proved to be more contentious. Maloney argued that even if the details haven’t been finalized, the city should have something in the 2017 budget to reflect that the proposal is in the works.

“My concern is by not having any mention in the budget... it’s easy not to take action,” he said. “I just feel like the residents in the area deserve the benefit of a decision.”

City Manager Shawn Hamilton argued against it.

“In my opinion, you’re fighting a perception problem, that, if it’s not listed it’s not on the radar,” he said.

“Nothing could be further from the truth. Just because you don’t see

it doesn’t mean it’s not on staff’s radar.”

First Ward Ald. John Moran argued that the city council shouldn’t put anything in the budget until they’re absolutely sure it would get done. He noted that First and Third Ward residents were under the impression they would be next in line for floodmitigation projects in their areas because they were on the list.

Third Ward Ald. Richard Van Roeyen said the city should have some amount budgeted.

“If we don’t budget ourselves appropriately and put money aside for such things, it won’t be there,” he said.

With the committee split, alderman removed the project.

www.cookcountycrimestoppers.org • 800.535.stop Thursday, Decem ber 3, 2015 | 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.

Niles Juan E. Pinedo, 47, 8700 block of South Street, Hickory Hills, was arrested at 2:28 p.m. Nov. 20 in the 6100 block of Touhy for retail theft.

1

Gregory S. Cashler, 59, 8000 block of Foster Lane, Niles, was arrested at 9:15 p.m. Nov. 20 in the 8000 block of Foster Lane for battery.

2

Sarah E. Gamboa, 26, 290 Forest View Ave., Wood Dale, was arrested at 12:29 p.m. Nov. 21 in the 8500 block of Golf Road for retail theft.

3

Gustavo E. Cortes, 22, and Marco A. Cortez-Barreto, 22, both of the 3200 block of West Lane, Glenview, were arrested at 4:50 a.m. Nov. 22 in the 9000 block of Milwaukee for two counts of battery and mob action.

4

Cheryll A. Wyller, 57, 1300 block of Rand Road, Des Plaines, was arrested at 7:20 p.m.

Nov. 23 in the 8500 block of Golf for retail theft.

5

Park Ridge Marcin P. Prokop, 39, 9656 Golf Terrace Apt. 2S, Des Plaines, was arrested at 1:04 p.m. Nov. 16 at Dee and Higgins for driving while using electronic device, no proof of insurance and no valid driver’s license.

6

Roy A. Clausen, 66, 1812 S. Linden, Park Ridge, was arrested at 10:55 p.m. Nov. 18 in the 2000 block of South Newton for DUI

7

and failure to reduce speed.

William P. Murphy, 30, 1150 Kylemore Court, Des Plaines, was arrested at 10:50 a.m. Nov. 18 in the 200 block of South Vine for retail theft.

8

3 5 2

Joshua M. Comparini, 25, 608 Center St., Carterville, was arrested at 5:16 p.m. Nov. 18 at Oakton and Greenwood for possession of drug paraphernalia, possession of cannabis, disobeying a no passing zone and driving in the wrong lane.

9

David G. Neris, 61, 3624 N. Oak Park Ave., Chicago, was arrested at 2 p.m. Nov. 18 at the residence for battery.

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4 14 15

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12 11

8

David W. Bailey, 41, 2010 Irwin, Park Ridge, was arrested at 6:03 a.m. Nov. 19 at the residence for domestic battery.

11

Robert M. Valdez, 33, 1900 W. Oakton, Park Ridge, was arrested at 9:52 p.m. Nov. 19 at the residence for domestic battery.

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16

1

12

6

7

Morton Grove Rebecca A. Broschat, 51, Chicago, was arrested Nov. 20 at Dempster and Menard for revoked driver’s license.

13

Evangelos K. Giannos, 22, Des

14 Plaines, was arrested Nov. 20 at Dempster and Elmore for DUI. Darryl Clark, 35, Arlington Heights, was arrested Nov. 21 in the 6700 block of Dempster for possession of controlled substance, possession of cannabis and possession of drug paraphernalia.

15

Susan G. Stephenson, 36, was arrested Nov. 23 at Dempster and Lehigh for suspended driver’s license.

16 Gurnee,

tax levy | from page 3 of several steps that would need to take place before the levy is finalized.

The proposed levy increase will now go to the full city council, which will hold a first reading Dec. 7. On Dec. 21, the city council is expected to hold a public hearing and will cast a final vote on whether to approve it.

Jessica Fain, an actuary with Lautenback & Amen LLP, explained to the committee that while the state law only requires Park Ridge to fund 90 percent of its pension obligations by 2040, she would strongly advise the city to stay the course and try to fund it fully.

The city would still have to pay the remaining 10 percent eventually, and by 2040, the sum would grow due to accumulated interest. City Manager Shawn Hamilton encouraged the aldermen to vote for the levy.

“With all things being equal, and the lowest property tax increase in a decade, I don’t see a reason not to leave it as is,” he said.

The only objection to the levy came from Mazzuca, who made

a motion to lower the levy by $100,000, reducing the increase by less than a third. But because nobody seconded the motion, it never even made it to vote.

Mazzuca said he could live with the levy as it was originally proposed. “I’m fine with this,” he said. “I think what we’re doing with pensions is good and responsible.”

City develops nepotism policy The committee of the whole voted 5-1 to approve a new nepotism policy, with Third Ward Ald. Richard Van Roeyen opposed.

The policy prohibits the city from hiring immediate family members of aldermen, the mayor and city manager. This includes spouses, siblings, parents, grandparents and anyone else with similarly close ties.

More distant relatives could be denied employment under one of the policy’s three conditions – if the supervisor/ subordinate relationship is created between the family

members, if there is a potential for creating an adverse impact on work performance, or if the employment could create either an actual conflict of interest or the appearance of a conflict of interest.

It would be up to “disinterested” members of the city council to decide whether the applicant meets any of the conditions.

The immediate family members of staff may be hired if they don’t fall under one of these conditions.

The city manager would decide whether the applicant falls under one of the conditions. Von Roeyen said he was worried the language created the appearance of a conflict of interest, saying that it creates unnecessary ambiguity.

“The way I see it, if there’s nepotism, it either exists or it doesn’t,” he said.

City attorney Adam Simon explained that the language gives the city more tools and allows more flexibility to account for individual circumstances. The nepotism policy will now go to the full city council for final approval.

Send us your feedback at nweditor@buglenewspapers.com

T h ur sday, Decem ber 3, 2015 | ni lesbug le.com

5

Special Voices > Opinion

Visible or invisible.. inclusion matters EDITORIAL

UN’s International Day of Persons with Disabilities promotes action, empowerment

By Daniel Smrokowski Bugle Columnist ASSISTANT EDITOR

ANDREA EARNEST aearnest@buglenewspapers.com

815.436.2431 ext.118

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This week, we celebrate the United Nations’ International Day of Persons with Disabilities -- a day where the world special voices joins together to raise By Daniel Smrokowski awareness about disability issues, promote action, and draw attention to the benefits of an inclusive and accessible community for everyone.

This is a time where we focus on an individual’s abilities and a time to educate our communities about how to include those of us with special needs.

This year’s theme is “Inclusion matters: access and empowerment of people of all abilities.” Inclusion applies to people who are diagnosed with all types of disabilities -- both visible and invisible disabilities.

Take, for example, this year’s subtheme: Including people with invisible

disabilities. It was back in my time in college that I first began to better understand both the invisible disability that I was diagnosed with, as well as the difference between disabilities that are seen and unseen.

Visible disabilities are often referred to as ones that people may visually perceive and therefore usually see something we are unable to do. Down syndrome, cerebral palsy or a speech disorder are a few common visible disabilities.

An invisible disability is one that may take a little while for others to perceive.

Learning disabilities and autism are a couple common invisible disabilities.

A good community is one that is built on inclusion, and the way we grow to have better inclusion of those of us with special needs is through acceptance. It is when we come to accept the different abilities that we show that acceptance, and inclusion can then become a regular part of our society. And, the way we come to have acceptance is through awareness.

Our communities need to first become aware of the various special needs that some individuals have. Awareness leading to acceptance and then inclusion can truly change the world.

A powerful example of acceptance and inclusion is that of my friend and previous “Special Voices” athlete Bree Bogucki. Bree, diagnosed with autism, is a fellow athlete and Global Messenger in Special Olympics Illinois.

She has always had a difficult time being accepted and included in a mainstream setting within her school.

That is, until her sophomore year of high school when the game began to change.

It was the beginning of Bree’s sophomore year of high school when her older sister, Kailey, began attending college about four hours away from their home. Since Kailey had been Bree’s best friend, Bree had slipped into a depression.

For those who know Bree, she moves at a slow pace, as recalled by her mom, Mary Ellen, in a recent blog post.

In helping to combat her daughter’s depression, Mary Ellen took Bree to therapy. A few weeks after starting therapy, Bree came home and announced she had joined the high school track team. Mary Ellen reached out to the head coach who then suggested that Bree could be his manager.

But Bree didn’t want to be a manager, she wanted to participate. She wanted to run!”

Even though Bree came in last place during her first meet, her teammates, those without special needs, were proud of her. Her peers had accepted and included her as part of their community.

Fast forward to today, Bree is in her senior year of high school and added cross country to the list of mainstream sports she has participated in. She has

see special voices | page 15

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Concerns over Morton Grove’s proposed budget Information and communication needs to reach out more to residents I have some concerns about the budget, as reported in the Bugle.

Reductions are always welcome but only if they do not affect the future running of the village in a negative way.

Should we be reducing community and economic development when our village has so many empty lots and few new businesses coming in?

The latest venture on Waukegan Road and Dempster appears to have fallen through. Prairie View is also stagnant.

Hiring consultants is not the answer, and current staff should be doing a better job.

Information and communication needs to reach out more to keep residents aware of current planning. Again, hiring new staff members or contracting for outside professionals should not be necessary if the current staff is doing their job.

Hopefully, whomever the village hires as the new financial director will have the expertise to pull the village out of the current doldrums.

As for a new social worker, the emphasis appears to be on response and crisis intervention. I think it should be on supporting the seniors before they ever get into a crisis situation. The village has taken away much of the financial assistance to seniors forcing many of them to move away. Some of that should be restored, which should not be a big burden to the village finances.

No mention was made about reaching

out to Maine Township, as well as Niles Township. Is this another case of neglecting the “West Sider” residents?

Not keeping up the maintenance of buildings like the village hall is almost forcing us to consider building a new one.

The current village hall is serviceable, although it is not as fancy as some of our more affluent neighboring suburbs.

One topic not fully understood is what kind of financial burden would be put on residents if a new water provider in Evanston is selected. If bonds will pay for it, will residents have to pay out for them? The various trade-offs on water bill savings vs. paying out bonds should be made clear to residents and perhaps put this kind of large expenditure on a referendum ballot.

Sherwin Dubren Morton Grove Resident

For wHeN you waNt to taKe 5 minutes For yourSelF Thursday, decem ber 3, 2015 | ni lesbug le.com

Aries

mARCh 21 TO ApRIL 20

Recharge your batteries. Take advantage of the opportunity to put your feet up as the week ahead could be fraught with deadlines and added responsibilities. Maintain a pleasant demeanor and avoid getting involved with arguments like the plague.

gemini

m AY 2 2 T O J U n E 2 1

Let your mind wander. Use your creative side; explore your imagination to get the most satisfaction. Don’t allow discussions to become too deep or heated and save making important decisions for later in the week.

leo

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

You may be your own worst critic. Self-doubt may cause your self-assessment of your abilities to be off the mark. In fact, you are more than able to get the job done. Give yourself a little bit of credit and meet challenges head on this week.

Across 1 phARmACY pURChASE 5 FIgURE (OUT), SLAngILY 9 EARLY YUCATán SETTLERS 14 gERmAn “A” 15 IRISh nEW AgE SIngER 16 BITE-ThE-BULLET TYpE 17 400 AThLETES? 19 “STAR TREK” LIEUTEnAnT 20 TROphY pRIzEd BY ACTORS 21 WATERmELOn EATER’S dISCARd 23 AUSTIn-TO-BATOn ROUgE dIRECTIOn 24 FLAT hAT WITh A pOmpOm 26 40 pOLOS? 28 FOOTBALL CLUB BASEd In LOmBARdY 32 mAnY A CASInO vISITOR 33 BAnK OFFERIng 34 KELLY OF mORnIng Tv 37 mORAL COdE 39 TExTER’S “hORRORS!” 40 4 TIRE InSERTS? 42 SQUEEzE (OUT) 43 LOCAL nEWS hR. 45 mIx 46 ESpn AnALYST hERShISER 47 WIFE OF ABRAhAm 49 ChATTY gAThERIng 51 600 STAnd-UpS? 54 pLEA AT SEA, BRIEFLY 55 “SAdLY ...”

56 pOUTY ExpRESSIOn 58 REpETITIvE mUSICAL pIECE 62 BIg TEn TEAm WITh A TURTLE mASCOT 64 1,500 ThERmOmETER UnITS? 66 gOBBLEd Up 67 LETTER CARRIER’S

SACKFUL 68 STARBUCKS ORdER 69 SOUnd FROm An AngRY dOg 70 SUgAR BOWL InvAdERS 71 BATTLE OF nORmAndY TOWn

Down

1 gEOmETRIC ART STYLE 2 FREES (OF) 3 LIKE ThE WORd “WAITRESS,” BRIEFLY 4 gUmmY BEAR IngREdIEnT 5 SUSAn OF “L.A. LAW” 6 SmALL BILLS 7 OvEn-SAFE BRAnd 8 STAnd In A pAInTIng CLASS 9 EAST LAnSIng SCh. 10 nOnRELIgIOUS SORT 11 mALL dIRECTORY WORdS 12 BOmBIng mISSIOnS 13 SIngS LIKE ELLA 18 ShRUnKEn ASIAn SEA 22 BROAdBAnd InITIALS 25 hARRY And __,

“hOmE ALOnE” BAd gUYS 27 gROUnd BREAKERS 28 pLEnTY 29 FESSES Up 30 dOCUmEnT SEALEd BY KIng JOhn In 1215 31 pETTY pEEvES 35 SALT (AWAY) 36 “nOT __ dEAL” 38 BOSTOn nBAER 40 ISLAmIC pRAYER LEAdER 41 nOTABLE pERIOdS 44 ThRIvE 46 In SOmE RESpECTS 48 ThAT gUY 50 FIvE-TImE WImBLEdOn ChAmp BJORn 51 gOES OUT WITh 52 pAUSE pUnCTUATIOn 53 KhARTOUm’S LAnd 57 CUT A LInE FROm, SAY 59 WELL-KEpT 60 COmpUTER gIAnT 61 nORWAY’S mOST pOpULOUS CITY 63 nBC COmEdY STApLE 65 SOmE BROnx TRAInS

librA

SEpTEmBER 24 TO OCTOBER 23

Carpe diem. Seize the day by doing the things you want to do and being around those whose company you enjoy most. Be careful not to let frivolous spending habits get out of hand or overlook a debt in the week ahead.

sAgittArius

nOvEmBER 23 TO dECEmBER 22

Stick to routines. Simply go through the motions. As this week begins, do what is expected and don’t start new initiatives or take on added responsibilities. Conversations with the wrong person could just be a waste of time.

AquArius

JAnUARY 21 TO FEBRUARY 19

There may be more than two sides to the coin. If a decision that needs to be made has several different options that seem appealing, then you are not yet ready to make a choice. Take time to evaluate every angle carefully this week.

Sudoku

tAurus

A p R I L 2 1 T O m AY 2 1

Apples don’t fall too far from the tree. Upon reflection, you may realize that the same things that irk you when dealing with family members are traits that you possess yourself. Be flexible this week and bend the rules as needed.

cAncer

J U n E 2 2 T O J U LY 2 2

Take an objective approach. There may be a tendency to become too emotional and to take criticism too personally this week. Put all business and serious issues on the back burner today and focus on rest and relaxation.

virgo

AUgUST 22 TO SEpTEmBER 23

Facts may look better on paper. You may have all the answers in your head, but conveying them to other people could be problematic. Don’t try to push your agenda on someone else, bide your time to find the perfect opportunity.

scorpio

OCTOBER 24 TO nOvEmBER 22

When the going gets tough, the tough get going. A lack of data or resources may bog down the progress of your latest endeavor. Focus on solutions instead of the problem as this week unfolds and all will turn out for the best.

cApricorn

dECEmBER 23 TO JAnUARY 20

There’s no need to show off. Trying to prove that you are the best may leave you feeling silly when you find that you are the only one in the competition. Don’t assume that everyone else shares your work ethic in the week ahead.

pisces

FEBRUARY 20 TO mARCh 20

The future is uncertain. There is no real way of telling how events may unfold right now. It is not a good time for starting a new project or setting plans into motion. Be careful not to let a casual conversation turn into an added responsibility.

Jumble

Tribune Content Agency, LLC. 2015

PreviouS Puzzle’S anSwerS

PreviouS Puzzle’S anSwerS

PreviouS Puzzle’S anSwerS

Jumbles:

• TRACT • FLUKE • LIQUOR • SURELY

Answer:

WhAT ThE SEEdY hOTEL gAvE hIm WhEn hE pAId In dOLLARS -- QUARTERS

Thursday, December 3, 2015

page 7

girls hoops

guard loaded Niles West has talent on the outside

By Scott Taylor sports editor

staylor@enterprisepublications.com @Taylor_Sports

A young Niles West team came away with a strong showing at the York Thanksgiving Tournament, going 3-2.

The Wolves opened play with a win over Conant, then fell to Downers South 59-52. They came back to take down host York 37-33, but fell to Prospect 57-51. They finished play on a strong note, topping Oswego 58-51 to finish over .500, despite having a small and young squad.

“We don’t have a lot of size,” Niles West coach Tony Konsewicz said. “We’re a young team and we’re going to have some growing pains. We have to take away cuts to the basket and we give up too many second opportunities.”

Leading the team this year is senior point guard Jalynn Estrada, who had 17 points against Downers South.

“She is a heck of a player,” Konsewicz said of Estrada. “She is still trying to get into a rhythm, but it is early in the season. She has deep three-point range. She finishes good at the basket. She plays hard and goes to the basket

3

Wins for Niles west at York Tournament

hard. She has a motor that goes and is disruptive on defense. She is a talented player.”

Sophomore Tricia Pabst and freshman Sam Galanopoulos provide a strong three-guard lineup. Galanopoulos had 12 against DGS, while Pabst scored 11.

“Trish came in halfway through the season last year and is a capable shooter and very smart defensively,” Konsewicz said.

“She knows where to be on the floor. Then Sam doesn’t play as a freshman. She takes and hits big shots. She has a high basketball IQ. We have to get used to playing with one another. We’re young, but energetic.”

“Niles West came out to play and we knew that their guards are very good,” Downers South coach Lyndsie Long said.” Coming into the game we knew they were going to pressure us and take the ball to the rim.They flat out outplayed us, but we came out on top.”

Konsewicz is happy with the start of the season.

“It’s a long season,” Konsewicz said. “It’s a marathon, not a sprint.

It was nice to win the first one off

see loaded | page 8

3

Seniors on Wolves’ roster

photo by Scott Taylor

Niles West senior Jalynn Estrada scored 17 points against Downers Grove South.

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

8

Thursday, decem ber 3, 2015 | ni lesbug le.com loaded | from page 7 the bat and we competed tonight against a bigger team.”

Not only did the tournament provide a solid slate of games and opponents, by playing it early in the season, the Wolves were able to get a week of practices to fix mistakes before playing more games. The main things they were expected to work on were on the defensive side.

“The keys are going to be defensively,” Konsewicz said.

“We’re slow to rotate and we’re struggling with defensive concepts. We’re a young team

FeaTuriNg

Jon Arenas

MaIne South football and baSketball What do you use twitter for? I use it for Bleacher Report notifications and for recruiting. It helps the coaches and myself get my name out there. how important is it to keep a positive profile? It is extremely important. I always hear stories about guys who post bad stuff and that is why schools don’t recruit them. I keep it clean

and say positive stuff and have direct messages with coaches. It is all positive, I don’t use it as a negative.

Who do you like to follow?

Definitely Bleacher Report.

They have quick updates.

They have some great stories. how often are you on twitter? About every day.

Not too much.

Steve MILLSAPS @tJoLIetWeStAD “Joliet West varsity basketball defeated CreteMonee for the JWhS thanksgiving tournament Championship 79-77 in ot! #tigerpride” BHS AtHLetICS @BHSRAIDeRS “big win for aaron bailey (‘13) & the unI Panthers over eastern Illinois 53-17 in the 1st round of the fCS playoffs!”

MAINe SoUtH AtHLetICS @ MAINeSoUtHAtH “CongratulatIonS to Junior kevin Jarvis for making the 2015 IhSa ClaSS 7a all-State football team! What a huge honor! ” SteeLMeN BASKetBALL @CoACHCoRC “Steelmen basketball WJol Champs 3rd year in a row! Junior Jose grubbs MvP!! #SteelmenPride ”

and we’ve only had a few weeks.

It’s going to take time to adjust to the speed of the varsity game.

We have some things to work on, but a tournament like this is good because we have a week off and can work on some things. It is good competition for us and will get us ready for conference.”

In a loaded CSL South conference, Niles West hopes to compete with the top teams and pick up some wins in the process.

“I feel our conference is one of the top in the state,” Konsewicz said. “All are big, talented teams.

New Trier was third in the state last year. We want to compete and pick up a conference win here and there. We want to prepare to get better for the tournament and build towards the end of the season.”

Boys HooPs Maine South went 4-0 and took home the title at the Maine West Thanksgiving Tournament.

Brad Perry had 17 points and 21 rebounds in the finale against Maine West. Jon Arenas added 26 points and seven rebounds, while Milos Ljiljak had 14 points.

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9

school briefs

School districts share winter guidelines Districts say school closure decisions will typically be made by 5:30 a.m.

Superintendents from five area school districts announced guidelines they will utilize in deciding whether or not to close schools during inclement winter weather.

Maine Township High School District 207, East Maine School District 63, Park Ridge-Niles School District 64, Des Plaines Community Consolidated School District 62 and Pennoyer School District 79 will share the new guidelines.

In a press release issued last month, District 207 said the shared procedures prioritize the safety of students and staff but take into consideration the childcare and work schedule problems caused by school closings.

“The districts prefer to keep schools open and to provide instructional time whenever conditions permit,” District 207 spokesman Dave Beery said in a

release. “In reaching any potential closing decision, superintendents will confer with each other and consult local public safety and public works officials.”

The school districts will use National Weather Service data.

Superintendents will consider factors such as the severity and timing of a severe weather event, as well as the ability of maintenance crews to heat buildings and maintain safe conditions on sidewalks and in parking lots. The ability of vehicles to travel safely and the ability of students to walk to and from school safely will also be taken into account.

The guidelines also include a dividing line in terms of wind chill. Schools will be closed in the event of a windchill warning that indicates life-threatening conditions and safety risk.

The National Weather Service

typically issues a warning when the windchill is 30 degrees or colder or when the actual air temperature is 15 degrees or colder. Assuming that no other factors necessitate closing the schools, classes will be held in the event of a windchill advisory, which the National Weather Service issues when the wind chill is 20 degrees or colder.

District 207 said school closure decisions will typically be made by 5:30 a.m. This deadline allows superintendents to monitor weather conditions overnight and avoid unnecessary closures.

A decision will be made the night before only if it is certain that conditions the next morning will warrant closure.

When districts deem it necessary to close schools, they will notify parents and students by way of automated phone calls and emails.

Closing information will also be available through district and school websites, major radio and TV sources, and districts’ social media accounts.

Maine South orchestra presents annual show Annual show to take place Dec. 4 and Dec. 5 at 7:30 p.m.

Maine South High School Orchesis Dance Company will hold its annual show Dec. 4 and Dec. 5 at 7:30 p.m. in the Maine South Auditorium.

Come enjoy “A Magical Night of Dance,” as the company takes a trip down the memory lane of Walt Disney and performs different pieces to music from classic Disney movies.

The all-ages show will include contemporary, jazz, tap, lyrical and musical theatre performances. Orchesis shows are student choreographed.

This year’s company consists of 33 dancers. The Orchesis Dance Company, under the direction of Amelia Faulstick, has been rehearsing since the beginning

Attend the Event

What: Maine South High School Orchesis Dance Company Annual Show: “A Magical Night of Dance” when: Dec. 4 and Dec. 5 at 7:30 p.m. where: Maine South High School Auditorium more info: High School is located at 1111 S. Dee Road in Park Ridge

of the school year. Maine South Orchesis will embark on a Disney adventure of its own, performing at Disneyworld in Orlando in January and taking a dance workshop with a Disney professional.

Tickets are $7 and will be sold at the door. Maine South High School is located at 1111 S. Dee Road in Park Ridge.

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Thursday, Decem ber 3, 2015 | ni lesbug le.com

village news > niles

Village designates $3.5 million for Milwaukee TIF projects Milwaukee TIF collected $1.77 million between April 2014 to May 2015

By Igor Studenkov bugle staff

nweditor@buglenewspapers.com @NilesILNews

Niles residents and representatives of local taxing bodies got a chance to see how the village spent money collected in its tax increment financing district during the Nov. 20 TIF Joint Review Board meeting.

During the meeting, Niles Finance Director Scot Neukirch discussed TIF spending between May 1, 2014, and April 30, 2015, as well as how funds were allocated for the current reporting period.

Between May 1 of this year and April 30, 2016, the village designated $3.5 million for development projects that are eligible for TIF assistance.

The Milwaukee TIF district, which was the village’s only TIF during the completed reporting period, collected almost $1.77 million. When interest payments and proceeds from bond sales were factored in, the fund had a total of $6.14 million. But all of those funds had been allocated for projects, debt payments and other obligations, so the village isn’t able to simply draw on that money.

When a TIF is created, the amount of money taxing bodies collect is frozen. Property owners in the district still have to pay the same taxes as the rest of the municipality, but the difference

between the money they pay and the money the taxing bodies actually collect goes into a TIF fund. Unless extended, each TIF lasts 23 years.

As Neukirch explained, the TIF Joint Review Board reviews all the financial transactions involving whatever TIF exists at the time.

Every taxing body that levies taxes within the district has the power to send representatives and those representatives get voting power. This includes the Niles Public Library, Niles Park District, Oakton Community College and local school districts, among other entities.

However, Neukirch said few taxing bodies actually take advantage of that power.

The Nov. 20 meeting had only one representative – Niles Public Library director Susan Lempke.

According to the meeting packet, the previous year’s meeting was attended by two representatives – Amy Kruppe, the thensuperintendent of Culver Elementary School District 71, and Eric Trimberger, assistant superintendent at Niles Township District 219.

At the time the reports were complied, Niles only had one TIF district – the Milwaukee TIF, which covers the area around the intersection of Touhy and Milwaukee avenues. The district is scheduled to expire in 2019.

During the reporting period, the village spent $25,632 on

legal, consulting and engineering services; $464,963 on a new building entrance and gun range for the Niles Police Department; $1,200 on job training and retraining, and $970,941 on debt payments.

For the current reporting period, which started May 1, 2015, and ends April 30, 2016, the village allocated about $3.66 million to cover bond interest and principal payments.

Approximately $3.4 million was

designated to go to taxing bodies, but the report didn’t elaborate on how much each taxing body would receive. An additional $381,000 would go toward the village’s old maintenance garage improvements, while $70,000 would go toward the village car wash and $70,000 would go toward rehabilitation of the police headquarters digital sign.

Approximately $3.5 million was designated for any development projects that are eligible for TIF assistance.

Former village of Niles Trustee Louella Preston attended the meeting and asked for more details on the last allocation.

Niles Economic Development Coordinator Ross Klicker said the village didn’t have any particular projects in mind, adding that the funds would be available if the new project came along.

Because the Gross Point-Touhy TIF, which encompasses the Touhy Triangle area and a few lots to the north and west, was established after April 30, the information on it wasn’t included in the report.

However, Neukirch said that because its western edge is near the east end of the Milwaukee TIF, the money from the Milwaukee TIF could be transferred over to the new TIF district. He added that, initially, some money may have to be transferred until the Gross Point-Touhy TIF starts generating its own funding.

“In time, it will be able to stand on its own,” he said.

Neukirch added that next year, the village board would decide how the money from the new TIF will be spent.

community > park ridge

Liberty Bank celebrates anniversary with scholarships Bank will give away 10 scholarships worth $1,000 each In 2005, Liberty Bank for Savings opened the doors of its Park Ridge branch.

To celebrate 10 years in town, the bank will give away 10 education scholarships worth $1,000 each in the month of December.

To enter, visit the Park Ridge office, 1018 W. Touhy Ave., and complete an entry slip agreeing that the funds will be used for education expenses, such as books, tuition or housing.

The scholarships are open to pre-school, K-8, high school,

college or adult education students. Winners will be chosen at random in January. Parents and grandparents can enter the drawing to benefit their children or grandchildren.

The contest is limited to one entry per person who must be 18

years of age or older and a legal resident of the United States.

“We see education as the key to personal and economic growth, and a healthy and peaceful world,” said Jaime Roman, assistant vice president and branch manager at the Park Ridge location.

Liberty Bank bank said its scholarship program is just one example of its community service efforts.

“For many years, we’ve enrolled children in our financial literacy program that gives $5 to each child receiving an A on their report card,” Roman added.

The bank also hosts free money management seminars and offers an automatic savings tool, called Pay Yourself First.

The program is available for free at www.libertybank.com/ pay-yourself-first.

News about local businesses in your community T h ur s day, Decem ber 3, 2015 | ni lesbug le.com

business

11

Chamber survey indicates fewer paid holidays in 2016 The results of the Illinois Chamber of Commerce’s annual holiday survey are in, and employers throughout the state appear to be offering slightly fewer official holidays but slightly more personal time.

According to the Illinois Chamber, results from the 2016 Annual Holiday Survey indicate how Illinois employers and their employees will be handling paid holidays in the upcoming year.

The annual survey compiles hundreds of responses from Illinois businesses of all size and industries.

“The results indicate a change in what kind of paid holiday time is being offered in 2016,” said Todd Maisch, president and CEO of the Illinois Chamber.

Maisch said the survey suggests

that the average number of paid holidays for Illinois workers is 8.8 days, compared with 8.9 in 2015. However, survey responses indicate that the average number of paid personal days is 2.9 days, slightly higher than 2015.

The chamber said its annual holiday survey is used by many Illinois businesses to decide on employees’ holiday benefits.

“It has been regarded as the standard to follow for many years,” Maisch added.

“The results provide a good indicator of what employers will be doing in 2016, and are provided by a good cross section of businesses from across Illinois.”

For more information on the Illinois Chamber, visit the website at www.ilchamber.org.

2016 Illinois Chamber Paid Holiday Survey Results (Holidays and percentage of firms observing as a paid holiday)

holiday

date

percent observing

New year’s day 2015

fri., jan. 1

98.2%

Martin Luther king jr. day

Mon., jan. 18

20.6%

lincoln’s birthday

Fri., feb. 12

2.6%

President’s Day

Mon., Feb. 15

18.5%

washington’s Birthday

Mon., Feb. 22

Casimir pulaski’s birthday

Mon. March 7

veterans day

fri., nov. 11

16.3%

thanksgiving

wed., Nov. 23

2.3%

thurs., nov. 24

98%

Fri., Nov. 25

72.7%

sun. dec. 25

98%

<1%

christmas (most give either friday before or monday after)

<1%

new year’s eve

sat., dec. 31

2%

27.2%

good friday

Fri., March 25

34.6%

employees birthday

memorial day

Mon., May 30

97.6%

5.2%

independence day

Mon., July 4

97.3%

floating holiday (1 or more days)

labor day

Mon., Sept. 5

98.2%

jewish holidays

About 1%

columbus day

Mon., Oct. 10

8.9%

election day

tues., nov. 8

1.3% full day, 1% half

average number of paid holidays: 8.8 average number of paid personal days: 2.9 number of firms responding: 483

Dave Says

Plan your wedding with the money you have Don’t turn one happy occasion to years of debt Dear Dave, How do you have a wedding without debt?

Lynn Dear Lynn, Wow, where do I start on this one? I guess the Says best way is to tell Dave money advice by the truth. Honey, dave ramsey that question kind of makes you sound like a little princess.

How do you have a wedding without debt? It’s really simple. You have a wedding with the money you have. There’s nothing wrong with small, inexpensive weddings.

And once you accept that and start thinking about things from a mature, adult point of view, you’ll start realizing you can scrimp and save and have a really nice, small wedding.

Lots of people have beautiful, memorable ceremonies and even small receptions for less than $1,000.

Sure, you can run out, go into debt and wear an $8,000 wedding dress for a few hours on one day of your life. Or, you can find one that’s much cheaper — even something that’s

been worn one time — for a couple hundred dollars. Think that’s tacky?

Well, let me tell you what’s even more tacky and dumb — going $15,000 to $20,000 in debt for one day!

To have a wedding without debt you have to be creative and think within your budget.

That means growing up and not throwing a temper tantrum just because you can’t have every little thing you want.

Most people don’t have lavish, expensive weddings, and guess what? Years down the road they’re still married, madly in love and laughing and hugging when they remember the best day of their lives.

Please, don’t turn what’s supposed to be a happy occasion into a financial mess that will take

years to clean up!

—Dave Dave Ramsey is America’s trusted

voice on money and business, and CEO of Ramsey Solutions. He has authored five New York Times best-selling books.

The Dave Ramsey Show is heard by more than 11 million listeners each week on

more than 550 radio stations and digital outlets. Dave’s latest project, EveryDollar, provides a free online budget tool. Follow Dave on Twitter at @DaveRamsey and on the web at daveramsey.com.

12

T h u r s d ay, D e ce mb e r 3, 2 0 1 5 | 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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13

Upcoming events in the community

14

Thursday, Decem ber 3, 2015 | ni lesbug le.com

DECEMBER 3 - 5

Candy Cane Lane Shoppe. 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. and 3 p.m. to 6 p.m.

Dec. 3 and Dec. 4.; 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Dec. 5. At the Maine Park Leisure Center, 2701 W. Sibley St., Park Ridge. Ages 12 and under. This kidsonly store is geared for the junior shopper. Inside, your child can buy that special gift for family members, pets, friends or neighbors. Elves are on hand to assist with the purchase and even help shoppers wrap their gifts. This is a great opportunity to learn how fun it is to give presents.

DECEMBER 5

Niles Garden Club: Winter Container Project. 10 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. at the Niles Public Library, 6960 W. Oakton St. Gardeners will create the annual winter arrangements for the library entrance containers and the underground window well. This is an “in the dirt” garden experience!

Dress for the weather. For more information, visit www.nileslibrary. org/events.

Silver Bell Express Trip 1. 7:15 p.m. at Morton Grove Train Station.

On Christmas Eve, many years ago, a young boy took a journey to a magical place. Travel with the park district as we venture on a memorable train ride. Santa awaits your arrival at the North Pole and will join us aboard the train for milk and cookies.

DECEMBER 6

Holiday Family Photos. 2 to 4 p.m. at the Niles Public Library, 6960 W. Oakton St. Bring your family and have your picture taken in the Creative Studio for a Holiday card.

You will receive one print and the digital file. For more information, visit www.nileslibrary.org/events.

Holiday Open House. 2-4 p.m. at the Niles Public Library, 6960 W. Oakton St. Join the staff of the Niles Public Library District as they welcome the holiday season.

From 2-3 p.m., Diva Montell will entertain with her voice and heart, performing holiday favorites and beautiful classics. Refreshments will be served. To register for the performance, go to nileslibrary.org or call 847-663-6606.

DECEMBER 8

Funniest, Heartwarming Moments in Christmas Movies. 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. at the Niles Public Library, 6960 W. Oakton St. Come revisit some of the greatest moments from modern and classic holiday movies at this holiday season celebration. Be prepared to laugh (and cry?) as

we view these nostalgic films.

Steven Frenzel from Marquee Movie Presentations will be our narrator.

For more information visit www. nileslibrary.org/events.

DECEMBER 9

Holiday and Winter Ornaments. 3 to 4 p.m. at the Niles Public Library, 6960 W. Oakton St. Make holiday and winter ornaments with the 3D Printer and Laser Cutter. For more information, visit www.nileslibrary.org/events.

EnglishasaSecond Language Conversation Group. 3 to 4 p.m. at Morton Grove Public Library, 6140 Lincoln Ave. This is a group that will facilitate conversations in English in an informal and friendly setting. The group will discuss a variety of subjects relating to practical, everyday, and general interest topics.

Finals Study Cafe. 5 to 8:30 p.m. at Morton Grove Public Library, 6140 Lincoln Ave. The library is setting aside a room to help high school students prep for finals. There will be food, drinks, and the correct atmosphere to dig into the books and prepare. The Teen Librarian will also be present to help with any questions.

DECEMBER 10

Financing a 4-Year College Degree. 6-7:30 p.m. at Niles Public Library, 6960 W. Oakton St. Find out how obtaining a four-year college degree can be financially possible for you and your family.

This presentation, sponsored by the Schuler Scholar Program in partnership with Maine East High School, will address high school academic planning, types of colleges and universities, financial aid options and community resources.

All are welcome! Habla espanol.

DECEMBER 11

Maine South Holiday Concert. 7 p.m. at Maine South Auditorium. For more information visit, http://south.maine207.org/ events.

Gingerbread House Decorating. 6:30 to 8 p.m. at Maine Park Leisure Center in Park Ridge. Ages 4-12. $27 for residents, $30 for non-residents. Decorate your very own gingerbread house.

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

Register online now at www. prparks.org.

DECEMBER 12

Breakfast With Santa. 8:30

a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at the Howard Leisure Center, 6676 Howard St., Niles. 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. All adults and children in attendance must register for this event. Res $10, Non-Res $12. For more information, visit www.nilesparks.org.

Santa’s Holiday Express.

10:50 a.m. to 2 p.m. Ages 2 and up.

R/NR: $21/$31. Join Santa and his holiday crew as they sing songs, talk with Santa, play games and enjoy face painting. Please bring a nut-free sack lunch to enjoy as Santa reads us a story. Ride 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 (Dee Rd.) station. Times are subject to change with Metra. Please arrive 10 minutes early to check in at the Dee Rd. Station. The Park Ridge Park District is not responsible for delayed, canceled or missed trains due to Metra’s scheduling.

Winter Card Making. 10 a.m. at Morton Grove Public Library, 6140 Lincoln Ave. Age 13 and up.

Using laying techniques, stamps, paper punches, and other fun embellishments to create fun and unique greeting cards! Material will be provided. Registration is required.

Meet Local Mystery Authors!: Mystery Author Panel and Book Signing. 1 p.m. at Morton Grove Public Library, 6140 Lincoln Ave. Join for a discussion with three award-winning writers from the Chicagoland area – Lori RaderDay (Little Pretty Things), Susanna Calkins (The Masque of a Murder), and Lynne Raimondo (Dante’s Dilemma) - and learn about their newest books and their writing process.

Teen Gingerbread Houses.

2 to 3:30 p.m. at the Niles Public Library, 6960 W. Oakton St. Teens design gingerbread houses using graham crackers for the holiday season. For more information visit www.nileslibrary.org/events.

Second Saturday Bingo Breakfast. 9:30-10:15 a.m. at Niles Public Library, 6960 W. Oakton St. Kids and families are welcome to enjoy some breakfast treats as we play Bingo. Enjoy a kick start to your weekend with a morning of family fun at the library.

DECEMBER 13

Trinity Lutheran Church Fine Arts Series 2015. 3 to 4 p.m. at Trinity Lutheran Church, 675 E. Algonquin Road, Des Plaines.

The New Tradition Chorus. Each of the many colors in a stained glass window represent a unique point of reference that together create composition that presents a complete image. So it is with the church. To everything there is a season; a distinct color in the great tapestry of the life of the church.

Come to experience and participate in the great song of the church.

BelSonore HolidayConcert.

2 p.m. at Morton Grove Public Library, 6140 Lincoln Ave. The Bel Sonore Chamber Ensemble of flute, oboe, and bassoon with soprano voice will perform a repertoire ranging from early Baroque to Jazz Standards.

Holiday Exhibition. 4:40 to 8 p.m. at the Oakton Ice Arena, 2800 Oakton St., Park Ridge. All ages.

Don’t miss this special exhibition featuring participants from Oakton Ice Arena’s Competitive Edge and Learn-to-Skate programs skating to Holiday themed music.

Grinch’s Candy Cane Hunt.

1:30 to 3 p.m. at Maine Park Leisure Center in Park Ridge. Ages: 3-10.

Cost: $7. The Grinch discovered that Santa’s elves have hidden candy canes at one of their favorite places – Maine Park! The Grinch is planning to find all of Santa’s candy canes and turn them green. Event begins with the story “How the Grinch Stole Christmas” inside the Maine Park gym. Then head outside to find all the candy canes hidden in the park.

The adventure concludes with a cup of hot chocolate and some yummy cookies, while the Grinch hands out prizes to those that found the special candy canes. Don’t forget to dress warm. Registration deadline: Dec. 1. Visit www.prparks.org.

Maine East Winter Concert.

2 p.m. at the Maine East High School Auditorium, 2601 Dempster St., Park Ridge. For more information, visit, http://east.maine207.org/ events.

Second Sunday Family Program: Dance Around the World! 2-2:45 p.m. at Niles Public LIbrary, 6960 W. Oakton St. Put on your dancing shoes and get ready to move with Chicago’s Dancing with Class, joining us for an interactive performance of dances from around the globe. Pick up free tickets in KidSpace 30 minutes ahead of time.

Seating is limited.

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15

community

Maine Township Swing into Spring senior expo set for April 29 1,800 people attended 2015 event at Golf Mill Shopping Center Maine Township’s 10th annual senior expo, scheduled for April 29, could prove to be another for the record books.

An estimated 1,800 people visited the event in 2015 during its five-hour run at the Golf Mill Shopping Center in Niles.

Designed to link seniors who need services with vendors who provide them, the Swing into Spring senior expo has grown in attendance for four straight years. Organizers are hoping to continue the trend in 2016.

“We are very pleased that our MaineStreamers senior expo continues to be so popular and grow steadily,” Maine Township Supervisor Carol Teschky said in a release. “About 10 years ago, we would see maybe 1000 visitors, and then more recently the crowd was in the 1600 range.”

Teschky said last year’s expo set a new record with almost 2,000 attendees.

Potential exhibitors and sponsors can get more information by calling the Expo Sales Office at 847-720-4495.

“Thanks to all the vendors from local, regional and state agencies

along with a range of commercial companies for being a part of this popular event,” Teschky said. “We expect to expand the variety of vendors next year to help better serve the interests of our residents who attend.”

Teschky will once again kick off the event by emceeing early bird bingo. Live musical entertainment will include a tribute to Roy Orbison.

Product demonstrations, raffles, giveaways, and contests make up the regular activities.

The township said the Illinois Secretary of State Mobile Driver Services Facility is expected to be on hand for renewal, replacement and corrections to driver’s licenses and state ID cards, vision screening with a driver’s license renewal, vehicle sticker sales, motor voter registration, and organ-tissue donor information and registration. Other state and regional agencies regularly exhibit, as well.

For more information about Maine Township and its MaineStreamers department, call 847-297-2510 or visit www. mainetownship.com.

special voices | from page 5

support, encouragement and friendship that one with invisible disabilities can be motivated to rise above any challenges that one may face along the way. Bree’s inclusive story shows us that we truly can live in a world accepting of those of us with invisible disabilities.

Join me on the United Nation’s Day of Persons with Disabilities and let’s change the world.

gone from last place to be an alternate on the girl’s varsity crosscountry team. Bree added crosscountry because for the first time in her mainstreamed life, she was accepted. Despite the invisible disabilities that she was diagnosed with, Bree was included.

It is with one’s own determination but also the right

Submitted Photo

The Denny Diamond Trio performs at the 2015 expo. Randy Walker will provide the musical entertainment at the 2016 senior expo with a tribute to Roy Orbison.

Submitted Photo

An estimated 1,800 people attended Maine Township’s 2015 Swing into Spring senior expo.

Daniel Smrokowski was born threeand-a-third months premature and was diagnosed with learning disabilities and a severe language disorder. He is an Athlete and Global Messenger with Special Olympics Illinois on the Southeast Association for Special Parks and Recreation team. Daniel is the founder of Special Chronicles nonprofit new media company, a pioneering network that gives respect and voice to people with special needs. Come join us at www.SpecialChronicles.com.

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