Sentinel 1-4-17

JA N UA R Y 4 , 2 0 1 7 V O L . 2 2 I S S U E 4 SHOREWOODSENTINEL.COM

BOUNCIN’ BACK West, Lockport bounce back at Pontiac

SEE PAGE 9

FORUM Come to Order Tips for organizing your holiday decor SEE PAGE 4

SPORTS

City of Champions JCA wins the East Aurora tournament SEE PAGE 7

BUSINESS Dave Says Credit cards are not an emergency fund SEE PAGE 11

CALENDAR Upcoming Events Check out events in your area SEE PAGE 14

SPORTS SPOTLIGHT

#shorewoodsentinel

PAGE 2 | W EDNESDAY , JANUARY 4 , 20 17 | SHO REWO O DSEN TI NEL .COM

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NEWS

WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 4, 2017 | BUGLENEWSPAPERS.COM

3

YEAR IN REVIEW >> WILL COUNTY

County looks back on productive year Long-awaited multi-modal regional transportation center has been approved

BY MEGANN HORSTEAD For the Bugle @BugleNewspapers sweditor@buglenewspapers.com

The past year has seen many changes in Will County. What hasn’t changed is the overall character of the residents and their interest in seeing the community come together to succeed.

With respect for lives lost, many residents honored the 15th anniver-

sary of the infamous 9/11 tragedy at community events and ceremonies held throughout the county.

The long-awaited multi-modal transportation regional transportation center has been approved and ground broken. The city of Joliet obtained project funding, and construction is scheduled to reach completion by the end of 2017.

Several new businesses have opened in 2016, with several more

to come in 2017.

Amazon brought jobs to both Romeoville and Joliet when looking to set up new locations for fulfillment centers within the county.

Cadence Premier Logistics did the same when it started construction for its new site, which is expected to move hundreds of jobs from Alsip to Joliet.

The development of the Weber Road/I-55 interchange project is an example of the county’s commitment to showing responsiveness to the community’s needs for safe and adequate access to roads.

There are two areas of concern for the county in the coming months.

The heroin epidemic has plagued not only communities in Will County but also many others across the nation. More than 70 heroinrelated overdoses were reported in 2016. County officials have continued efforts to encourage partnerships between area schools and nonprofit organizations to educate community youth of heroin’s consequences.

Secondly, the state of Illinois continues to struggle financially, and talk of cuts to the local municipal

distributive funding has county officials eyeing spending cuts to balance the books. A number of nonprofit organizations are dealing with hardship brought on by reduced allotments in general state aid.

On another note, thousands kicked off the holiday season at the annual Light Up the Holidays Parade and Festival in downtown Joliet.

The season of giving continues to inspire residents to look out for one another in the communities they live.

YEAR IN REVIEW >> LOCAL

Year of progress, preparing for challenges Officials worked to amend and clarify city ordinances in 2016

BY MEGANN HORSTEAD For the Bugle @BugleNewspapers sweditor@buglenewspapers.com

The city of Joliet and the village of Shorewood have accomplished many feats in 2016.

This year, Joliet officials took steps to finalize plans for the county courthouse.

The project’s development is set to supersede the construction of a new sheriff’s office building, which is scheduled to see completion by the second half of 2017.

Both projects intend to assist in the workflow of county operations.

Some of the village of Shorewood’s capital improvement projects this year included the installation of new water meters, Seil Road sewage lift station upgrades and roadway improvements.

In Joliet, many came out to support the Rialto Square Theatre at its 90th anniversary celebration earlier this year.

From silent film and backstage tours to a ceremonial cake cutting and a champagne toast, the day-long event offered a plethora activities to indulge in.

The Shorewood Area Chamber of Commerce’s Crossroads Festival turned 40 in 2016.

The festivities got underway in August as many looked to celebrate the season at the annual event.

On another note, both Joliet and Shorewood officials worked to amend and clarify city ordinances that govern what’s allowed and not allowed within the limits of each respective municipality.

Rules were amended to allow pigs as pets in Joliet. The matter came before the council in December after officials received an anonymous complaint. City rules denote that one pig is allowed per household, provided that fencing is used for enclosure.

After much debate earlier this year, Shorewood officials amended an ordinance outlining rules for massage establishments.

The measure looks to align village codes with state licensure requirements.

Issues had arisen a number of times over the years at massage establishments. Prior to being amended, the language of the ordinance appeared to undermine the authority of state licensures.

There are also challenges for the Joliet-Shorewood area in the months to come.

Long before 2016 got underway, Joliet officials were met by a need to revive the downtown area.

Council action in recent months look to change that story by reexamining the city’s relationship to the Rialto Square Theatre.

The powers of Joliet’s inspector general were expanded this month.

BUGLE FILE PHOTO

Long before 2016 got underway, Joliet officials were met by a need to revive the downtown area.

Council action in recent months look to change that story by reexamining the city’s relationship to the Rialto Square Theatre.

In November, the city manager proposed a budget without funding for the Rialto.

Shorewood officials are looking to establish a Route 59 and Jefferson Street tax increment finance district.

A TIF is a measure that freezes a property tax base to allow new dollars generated to fund redevelopment.

The proposed project is eligible for some attention in part to the village qualifying as a conservation area, or a region hindered by age and in need of improvement.

The Shorewood Village Board of Trustees is slated to vote on the TIF district in early 2017.

Some of the ways these neighboring communities work together to serve residents include water and sewer operations, schooling

and public transportation.

Part of the Joliet-Shorewood area success this year can be attributed to continued partnerships through intergovernmental agreements with school districts and other governmental agencies.

FORUM

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COLUMN >> COME TO ORDER

Organize your holiday decor You can minimize tediousness by putting away just a few decorations each day over a period of time Welcome to the New Year. As the holiday season winds down and you pack away your decorations, consider organizing them in a way that will make it a joy to decorate for the next holiday season. You can make “undecorating” fun by involving family members and making it one of your holiday traditions.

You can also minimize the tediousness by putting away just a few decorations each day over a period of time rather than trying to do it all at once.

Just be sure to take some time to organize and properly store your decorations to ensure that you will continue to enjoy them for years to come.

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Weed out decorations you don’t use or don’t like. If they have sentimental value but you don’t use them, put them in a keepsake box and include a note that indicates their significance. If they’re in good shape but you no longer want them, donate them – schools, community theater groups, senior homes and homeless shelters are all potential recipients. Otherwise, recycle what you can and toss the rest.

Organize your decora-

•

COME TO ORDER

By Sue Becker

•

tions in a meaningful way.

Think about your decorating technique, and organize your decorations accordingly. If you decorate room-by-room, store the decorations for each room together. If you like to put out similar decorations at the same time (e.g., all the candles, all the window decorations, all the garlands, etc.), pack your decorations according to type. Take pictures of each area of your decorated home to remind you of where things go.

Use special containers for special decorations. Artificial Christmas trees and wreaths are two large items that may not fit easily into a typical box or bin. You can purchase special bags or boxes for these items at general merchandise and home improvement stores.

You might consider putting these and other large decorations into clear plastic bags (recycling bags or dry cleaner bags work well). If you don’t

•

have shelf or floor space to store them, consider hanging them from the rafters in your attic, garage, or basement.

Label containers. Make it easy to identify what’s in each container by labeling at least 2 of the sides as well as the top – you never know which side will be facing you. You can use a general description (e.g., “Christmas - Living Room”) or instead, you can assign a number to each container and then create a separate inventory of each container’s contents by number (e.g., “Box 1 – New Year’s decorations,” “Box 2 – Eid decorations,” etc.).

Stow containers with retrieval in mind. Make sure one of the labels is facing forward so it can be seen easily. If you have decorations from several holidays, rotate containers so the most current holiday is always the most accessible: put decorations for the most recent holiday in the back or at the bottom and move containers for the next holiday to the front or top of the group.

Sue Becker is a Certified Professional Organizer in Chronic Disorganization who helps individuals and businesses discover the simplicity, harmony, and freedom of being organized and productive. She also speaks to companies and organizations about how to get organized and make the most of their time. Sue can be reached at www.

PilesToSmiles.com or 630.373.7400.

LETTER TO THE EDITOR

Turn on the lights on Collins DEAR EDITOR The streetlights on Collins Street between Columbia and Bruce have been off for an extended period of time...two months!

During the long nights of winter it is very important to keep Collins and our busy commercial streets lit to deter crime.

Last week during the day there was a shooting on Collins Street. I would hate for someone with bad intentions to feel emboldened by the darkness and hurt the innocent due to

lack of light on Collins Street at night.

The businesses along that stretch of Collins would appreciate the lights turned on too and the residents that live in the area. Collins Street was recently added to the Downtown Special Service Area and if we are to be looked at and taxed as downtown we must always have working lights and lit like downtown.

Turn on Collins Street!

ANGEL GUZMAN JOLIET

METRO Information in Police Blotter is obtained from Joliet, Shorewood and Lockport police departments and the Will County Sheriff’s Office. Individuals listed in Police Reports who have been charged with a crime have not been proven guilty in court. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty.

December 13 Sarah M. Willis, 32, of Braidwood was cited for driving while license suspended near S. Briggs Street and 3rd Avenue.

Pedro L. Zerrmano, 38, of Lockport was cited near Walnut and Sterling for driving while license revoked.

An unknown male (40-50 years old) and a female (40-50 years old) came into the J Town Eatery, 2501 E. Cass St., around closing time and placed an order and then began wsndering around.

The male subject then stole the tip jar from the counter, brought it to his vehicle, and returned inside to pay for his carry-out order. The owner realized after the couple left that the jar was gone.

James Leach, 50, of Worth, was

NEWS FROM THE SURROUNDING COMMUNITIES WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 4, 2017 | BUGLENEWSPAPERS.COM cited for near E. Washington and Logan operating an uninsured motor vehicle, improper lane usage and no valid driver’s license.

Andras Shaw, 40, of Joliet, was cited near Cass and Collins for failure to signal, improper lane usage and no valid driver’s license.

Jennifer Kraft, 32, of Plainfield, was cited near Black and Essington for driving while license suspended and expired registration.

December 14 Elsie Angeles, 25, of Joliet was cited near Richards and 2nd Avenue for improper display plate attachment, driving while license suspended and no rear registration light.

Angel F. Mancera, 27, of Joliet, was cited near Henderson and Columbia for no valid driver’s license and improper lane usage.

Autumn Gray, 39, of Rantoul, Ill. was cited near Richards and Doris for operating an uninsured motor vehicle.

Rosa N. Lara, 29, of Joliet was cited near N. Eastern and E. Cass for driving while license suspended, failure to signal, and operating an uninsured motor vehicle. She was held on an active failure to appear warrant.

December 15 Armella L. Frankowski, 79, of Mokena, was arrested for battery on the 300 block of N. Chicago St. December 16 Manuel Vega-Rodriguez, 40, Joliet was cited near Scott and E. Cass for failure to signal, improper lane usage and no valid driver’s license.

December 16 Joseph R Slussar, 25, of Joliet, was arrested on the 1500 block of N. Larkin for theft.

Jessica L. Croarkin, 22 of Macomb, was arrested on the 2500 block of S. Rt. 59 for retail theft.

Christopher J. Boyd, 44 was taken in to custody on a Clark County Sheriff’s Warrant.

Brent W. White, 41 of Chicago, was arrested on the 1500 block of N. Larkin for retail theft.

Vianey Acosta, 36, of Joliet, was arrested on the 800 block of Plainfield Rd. on two counts of forgery, two count of deceptive practice and two counts of unauthorized possession of a prescription form (2cnts) December 17 Sherman Hall, 40, of Joliet, was arrested near Jackso and Joliet for

possession of cannabis.

Cody Smith, 54, of St. Louis, Mo., was arrested near 4th and Eastern for blocking the street with a truck.

Yesenia Dominguez-Rodriguez, 30, of Joliet, was arrested near E. Jackson and Parks on a Cook County warrant.

Darnell Robert Smith, 35, of Joliet, was arrested on the 1800 block of McDonough for possession of controlled substance, criminal trespass to real property.

Channeka Gatson, 22, of Joliet was arrested on the 900 block of W. Jefferson for theft.

Selene Baca, 21 of Aurora, was arrested on the 2400 block of W. Jefferson for retail theft.

Heather E.Rios, 33, of Dekalb, was arrested on the 2400 block of W. Jefferson for retail theft.

Carly R Tinoco, 33, of Dekalb, was arrested on the 2400 block of W. Jefferson for felony retail theft.

Adrian L. Palacios, age 22, of Joliet was arrested on the 1700 block of E. Washington for battery.

Person/s unknown stole a 2006 Freightliner Century Semi Tractor on the 500 block of Sehring.

Jose Pecina-Reyes, age 31, of Joliet was cited for failure to reduce

5

speed to avoid an accident on the 800 block of Richards St. December 18 Desiree Gibson, 22, of Crestwood, was charged with two counts of identity theft on the 18000 block of S. Lagrange Rd. Avery Williams, 24, of Crest Hill, was charged with criminal trespass to vehicle on the 1800 block of McDonough Dorien Anthony Smith, 22, of Joliet, was arrested for retail theft on the 1500 block of N. Larkin Ave. Luis Eduardo Prado, 21 of Joliet, was was arrested for domestic battery on the 1200 block of Ada. Victor Zavala Jr., 26 of Joliet, was arrested for criminal damage to property on the 600 block of Abe. Christopher Guzman-Gonzalez, 21, of Joliet, was arrested for an in-state warrant.

Adrian Williams, 46, of Joliet was arrested on Pheasant Run Road for resisting a peace officer

FOR MORE POLICE BLOTTERS, GO TO BUGLENEWSPAPERS .COM

6

TAKE 5

FOR WHEN YOU NEED 5 MINUTES FOR YOURSELF! WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 4, 2017 | BUGLENEWSPAPERS.COM

ARIES

MARCH 21 TO APRIL 20

Think outside yourself. Resolve to make your partner’s life just a bit better. As this week unfolds you might find that the support of someone else is necessary to sustain your own happiness.

GEMINI

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

If you are receptive and perceptive you can sidestep the deceptive. In the week ahead a close companion might be less than forthcoming. Resolve not to overreact to what seems like a betrayal.

LEO

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

Sing a sentimental duet with your special someone.

Perfect harmony is possible if you follow your intuitions.

Don’t expect special favors or generosity from the boss in the week ahead.

ACROSS 1 SOFTWARE VERSIONS THAT PROBABLY HAVE BUGS 6 DEER SIR? 10 LONG-RUNNING TV FORENSIC SERIES 13 REASON FOR SOME FOOD RECALLS 14 TRACTOR BRAND 15 GAVEL SOUND 16 KING OF RAGTIME 18 CALIFORNIA’S SANTA __ MOUNTAINS 19 2,000 POUNDS 20 LEE IN THE FROZEN FOODS SECTION 21 GIVES OFF 23 PRESLEY FILM SET IN SIN CITY 26 NOISY INSECT 29 SEUSS’ “HORTON __ A WHO!” 30 IN ANY WAY 31 ARTIST FRANCISCO 33 RIGHT-ANGLED PIPES 36 PENALTY FLAG THROWER 37 SINCERE 40 PROMISE TO REPAY, FOR SHORT 41 THE “E” IN FEMA: ABBR. 43 FEZ AND FEDORA 44 SPEAKS SCRATCHILY 46 “SOUR GRAPES” STORYTELLER 48 MULTI-ROOM ACCOMMODATIONS 49 ONE CHASING OUTLAWS FOR MONEY 53 DOMED HOME 54 ZIP, AS A ZIPLOC 55 STATIC JOLT 58 BIKINI TOP 59 COUNTER WIPERS, OR WHAT THE STARTS OF 16-, 23AND 49-ACROSS ARE 63 LANAI WREATH 64 PREFACE, BRIEFLY

65 YEAS AND NAYS 66 MASS. CLOCK SETTING 67 MIX, AS A SALAD 68 MAKE INTO A STATUTE

DOWN 1 UNSURPASSED, OR SURPASS 2 DANISH SHOE COMPANY 3 ANIMATED CHARACTER 4 MOUNTAIN HGT. 5 ISN’T USED, AS MACHINERY 6 LEAF UNDER A PETAL 7 PHONE BOOK NO. 8 TYCOON ONASSIS 9 SWISS CONVENTION CITY 10 SITE FOR ONLINE BARGAIN HUNTERS 11 LEGENDARY SLEIGH RIDER 12 “NOT INTERESTED” 14 ANIMATED KID EXPLORER 17 MORNING CUP 22 FOR A __ PITTANCE 23 ACTOR KILMER 24 “NOW I REMEMBER” 25 CASPIAN AND BLACK 26 HANDLE WITH __

27 GOSSIP COLUMN COUPLE 28 17-DOWN WITH HOT MILK 31 BOARDROOM DIAGRAM 32 TORONTO’S PROV. 34 MORE THAN TROT 35 FIGURE (OUT), SLANGILY 38 SHOUT BETWEEN SHIPS 39 SOUL MATE 42 NEVADA CITY 45 WORD BEFORE BASE OR BALL 47 “CUT THAT OUT!” 48 FANTASY BASEBALL DATUM 49 HOLY SCRIPTURES 50 FAIRY TALE BADDIES 51 PASSWORD CREATORS 52 FICTIONAL SLEUTH WOLFE 55 SECOND OF FOUR RHYMING GREEK LETTERS 56 ACTOR BALDWIN 57 HISSED “HEY!” 60 “IS THAT __?”: “ARE YOU DECLINING?” 61 PAIR IN A QT. 62 TOOK FIRST PLACE

LIBRA

SEPTEMBER 24 TO OCTOBER 23

Build a cocoon of contentment. Relax within the warmth of a trustworthy relationship and find hidden benefits in your job. Frustrating situations might prevent you from attaining your goals.

SAGITTARIUS

NOVEMBER 23 TO DECEMBER 22

The only thing to fear is fear itself. Lucky breaks can improve your career outlook in the week ahead, but you must be able and willing to experiment with something new.

AQUARIUS

JANUARY 21 TO FEBRUARY 19

Fool around and fall in love without being foolish. Enjoy relationships that have a definite chance of lasting.

Choose purchases with an eye on durability in the first part of the week.

SUDOKU

TAURUS

A P R I L 2 1 T O M AY 2 1

Your cheerfulness attracts compliments. Remain faithful if you hope to enjoy a rapturous romp with a romantic companion. In the week to come your business sense might be out of kilter.

CANCER

J U N E 2 2 T O J U LY 2 2

It is tempting to remain tethered to togetherness. Make the most of your vacation engaged in quality time with family. Later in the week your loved ones might not have time for you.

VIRGO

AUGUST 22 TO SEPTEMBER 23

Display a tranquil air to lure a lover into your lair. Your mate could be especially sensitive to your needs and wants. This is a good week to make lasting contentment and harmony a reality.

SCORPIO

OCTOBER 24 TO NOVEMBER 22

A spirit of blissful agreement can make significant relationships the centerpiece of tranquility. Implement key plans and long term partnership agreements in the early part of the week.

CAPRICORN

DECEMBER 23 TO JANUARY 20

Keep your comments to yourself. In the week ahead there could be some crossed wires in your communications.

Resolve to be more understanding and open minded on the job.

PISCES

FEBRUARY 20 TO MARCH 20

Listen to the words of the bard. “To sleep, perchance to dream” may offer necessary rest. Find peace and harmony in the week to come if you are willing to set your imagination loose.

JUMBLE

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PAGE 7

WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 4, 2017 | BUGLENEWSPAPERS.COM

>> INSIDE: JOLIET WEST AND LOCKPORT COMPETE IN PONTIAC PAGE 9

BASKETBALL

HILLMEN

PREVAIL

Joliet Catholic Academy defeats Aurora Central Catholic to win the East Aurora Holiday Tournament

BY DRAKE SKLEBA For the Bugle www.buglenewspapers.com

AURORA – For Joliet Catholic Academy head basketball coach Joe Gura and his Hilltoppers, Monday’s 51st Annual East Aurora Holiday Tournament opener, versus Neuqua Valley, was a game of contrasts. After playing their best half of the season, the Hilltoppers, behind 15 Donovan Finch points, led the Wildcats 35-16, as the teams went to halftime.

“We couldn’t have played any better in the first half,“ Gura said.

“We ran our offense to perfection.

Hit our shots and played great defense against a very good Neuqua Valley team.”

Gura will have to work on his halftime speeches. In the third quarter, Neuqua Valley outscored JCA 19-2 and erased all but two points of the Hilltoppers 19-point halftime lead. The two clubs went to the final quarter, with the Hilltoppers up 37-35.

All’s well that end’s well, as the

24

POINTS FROM RAGEN IN TITLE GAME

Hillltoppers bounced back and had a solid fourth quarter. Led by Chicago Hope Academy-transfer, Dexter Spencer, JCA (4-6) and senior Jack Surin, the Hilltoppers held off Neuqua Valley (5-5), for a 59-48 win. Spencer scored six of his nine points in the crucial fourth quarter. Spencer’s jumper with 1:55 left gave the Hilltoppers a 52-45 lead. Spencer struck again with 1:01 left, to open up a 56-46 lead. With under a minute left he calmly sank a pair of free throws to ice the contest.

“We had a great start and then had a poor third quarter,” Spencer said. “We battled back in the fourth quarter to pick up a big win.

My boy Donovan had a great game and we all came together in this big win. We are looking forward to facing a good Oswego East club tomorrow.”

Finch, who would finish with a game-high 19 points and 11 boards, dominated the first SEE HILLMEN PAGE 8

23

POINTS FROM FINCH IN TITLE GAME

PHOTO BY MARK GREGORY

Pete Ragen led all scorers with 24 points in JCA’ tournament-title win over Aurora Central Catholic.

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

8 SPORTS

WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 4, 2017 | BUGLENEWSPAPERS.COM

ST. FRANCIS

Ballestero scored 1,000th point for USF Senior Jo Jo Ballestero (Anaheim, Calif./ Canyon) scored 18 points – including the 1,000th of his career – as the No. 19-ranked University of St. Francis men’s basketball team defeated Madonna University 85-79 on the first night of the Roosevelt University New Year’s Classic Thursday evening.

With its third straight win and fourth in five games, USF improved to 9-5 overall. Madonna (6-9) lost for the first time in its last four outings as it took on the Saints

HILLMEN FROM PAGE 7 half, for the Hilltoppers. The Hilltoppers hit 11 of their first-half 16 shots and held the Wildcats to 6 of 21 first-half shooting.

“Having almost blown the 19-point lead and rebounding in the fourth quarter, to get this win was huge,” Finch said. “Our coaches warned us that Neuqua Valley would make a run at us. It

for the first time.

Ballestero was 3-of-9 from 3-point range and 9-of-10 from the free throw line en route to his 18-point performance. His final two points on a pair of foul shots with seven seconds left in the game gave him 1,001 for his career.

USF led 42-37 at halftime and remained ahead by single digits until Madonna recaptured the advantage 52-51 with under 12 minutes to go. The next nine minutes featured eight lead changes until

senior Logan Timmons’ (Clermont, Fla./ East Ridge) layup put the Saints on top for good 71-70.

Junior Iain Morison (Canberra, Australia/ St. Edmund’s) and senior Jean Pietrzak (Westmont, Ill./ Westmont) scored 16 and 14 points, respectively, while senior Jake Raspopovich (Merrillville, Ind./ Merrillville) added 10 points.

The Saints blocked 11 shots, five by senior Landus Anderson (Quincy, Fla./ Florida State University School).

was great to hold them off and get the win.”

Surin, was himself a man of contrast. After playing an outstanding first half, scoring nine points, he came out and played poorly in the disastrous, third quarter. Surin returned to his first-half form in the fourth quarter. Surin’s oldfashioned three-point play, gave the Hillltoppers a 40-35 lead, with 6:54 left in the contest. With 4:53

left, Surin drove to the hoop and scored for a 44-38 lead.

“I really had an up and down game and I give all of the credit to our bench. They really picked me up.” Surin said. “This was huge for our confidence going forward.”

Aidan Tyrell and Pete Ragen chipped in with seven points each, for JCA. ‘We just couldn’t get any shots in the third quarter,“Gura added. “We knew Neuqua Valley was going to make a run but we didn’t expect it to be that bad. I am so proud of the fact that we bounced back and had a fine fourth quarter, to get out of here with the win. After the two heart-breaking defeats to Marian Central Catholic and Lockport, before Christmas, I was hoping the kids would come out and play well. The fact that we almost blew the big lead but still came out of here with the win, is a credit to the kids. We will be tougher to beat because of this win.”

Gura knew what he was talking about as the Hilltoppers went on to claim the title defeating Aurora Central Catholic in the final game.

Ragen tallied a game-high 24 in the win, while Finch added 23.

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SPORTS

WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 4, 2017 | BUGLENEWSPAPERS.COM

9

BASKETBALL

West, Lockport bounce back at Pontiac

BY MARK GREGORY Sports Editor @Hear_The_Beard mark@buglenewspapers.com

PONTIAC — There were four teams that entered the 86th Annual Pontiac Holiday Tournament undefeated and only one of those teams survived the second day with an unblemished slate.

One of those to lose its perfect mark was Joliet West, who fell on day two 68-64 to Bloom Township after opening the tournament with a 77-53 win over Niles West.

The story was to be how the Tigers would respond following the loss and the fact that their goal of winning the tourney was gone.

What they did was come out at he 9:30 a.m. game on Dec. 30 and defeat Oak Park-River Forest 69-57.

“The inital goal was to come win the whole thing, but things didn’t go our way,” said senior guard Teyvion Kirk. “Usually teams will be defeated and come out here and not care about the next few games, but our coach made it a big deal to come out here and continue to fight and battle and get the job done today.

“Losing is part of the game, it is about how you learn from it and mature from it. We want to lose what we learn here as a stepping stone for the rest of the season.”

West coach Nick DiForti was happy with the way the Tigers responded to the loss — especially when the bounce back game happens before 10 a.m.

“It is always hard to play at 9:30 in the morning. We had the kids in bed early, but did they go to bed early? We never know,” he said. “It was good that we had such a long time off yesterday even though we lost, we had a long time to relax and rest and then practice in the evening to get them loose again.”

DiForti knows that although West did not play in the prime time game and compete for a title, this will only make the team better.

“It is about match-ups,” he said. “You get to see a lot of different styles. It is like a mini state because of the build up and the noteriety of the tournament itself. Everyone here plays like it

is regionals, sectionals, supersectionals here so that is pretty cool.”

In the final game of the tournament, West handed Chicago Curie its second loss of the tournament as the season 55-49 to place fifth. West was paced by 21 points from Bell and 14 from Kirk.

LOCKPORT After dropping the first game of the tournament 69-41 to Benet Academy, Lockport did not want to go home from the tournament on day two.

The Porters came out with a will to win and defeated Warren 55-35 to stay alive.

“That is what the kids wanted,” Lockport coach Brett Hespell said. “They wanted to stay away from mom and dad another night and that is some incentive.”

With the win, the Porters earned the chance to wake up and play the session opener at 8 a.m.

They did that and knocked off West Aurora 56-52 in the process earning a fourth-game, which is the tournament maximum.

“Four games is always one of the goals when you come to Pontiac and to start the way we did against Benet and then to be able to bounce back and beat a tough Warren team and then a West Aurora team that has had a good start to the season - so that was a big win for us,” Hespell said.

Overall, Hespell is happy with how the Porters opened the season.

“We are 8-5 and we have lost to Thornton, Bolingbrook, Joliet West and Benet who are all ranked in the top 25 in the state and we are 8-1 against everyone else we have played and that one is a season-opening game against a tough Minooka team,” he said. “I think the toughness of our schedule is going to show up when we get to the end of the season. Getting better matters, being the best at the end of the year matters and I think that is the path we are on.”

In the final game of the tournament, Lockport fell to St. Charles North 51-49 ending the tournament 2-2 and 8-6 overall.

PHOTO BY MARK GREGORY

Trevian Bell and the Tigers placed fifth at the 86th Pontiac Holiday Tournament.

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SPORTS

WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 4, 2017 | BUGLENEWSPAPERS.COM

BASKETBALL

Central girls finish strong at Oswego E.

BY SCOTT TAYLOR For the Bugle www.buglenewspapers.com

PHOTO BY MARK GREGORY

Shawn Brown and Joliet Central won its final two games of the Oswego East Holiday Classic.

Joliet Central concluded the Oswego East Holiday Classic strong, winning its final two games of the tournament to go 2-2 overall.

In the finale the Steelmen beat East Aurora 55-47.

“This gives us a little bit of confidence,” Joliet Central coach Laura Brumfiel said. “I think we really focused on our energy and effort and I think that will help us the rest of the season.”

“We did really good,” Annette Hymon said. “Our team hustled and worked hard. We never gave up.”

The score was tied at 21-21 late in the second quarter before eight straight points from the Steelmen to finish the half.

“It was huge,” Brumfiel said.

“It lifted our confidence going into halftime. We played with more effort and energy in the second quarter and it carried into the third quarter.”

“The end of the first half gave us a big boost,” Hymon said.

“We played more as a team than as individuals. We worked together and it came together and we got the outcome we wanted.”

Central scored the first basket of the third quarter to lead by 10 and was able to maintain a twoscore lead the rest of the game to hold on for the victory.

Hymon led the way with 20 points for the Steelmen. Tyler Hood added 13 points and Shawnton Brown added 11.

“I did it because of my teammates,” Hymon said. “They gave me the ball where I could score and I just worked hard. It helps to have everyone be able to score.”

“Annette always plays hard.

She is tough and is a leader and fights for every possession,” Brumfiel said.

Joliet Central opened the

tournament with an 84-27 loss to Edwardsville. Tylena Hood scored 12 points and H’Acneise Loopwood added 10 points.

The Steelmen then fell to Harlem 43-31 despite eight points from Alexis Gustafson.

They picked up a win over Thornwood before the final game, 40-33. Shawn Brown scored 16 points and Harmony Burrell added 11.

“We have scorers on our team, but everyone knows their role,” Brumfiel said. “They step up when they are needed.”

Overall, the tournament showed Joliet Central what its keys to success are and what it needs to do going forward to have success in the second half of the season.

“It is a great tournament,” Brumfiel said. “I think it is great to come out with two wins and we got better in every game we played, which was our goal. We have to execute our offense and take care of the basketball. I am happy with the energy and effort we played with.”

“It showed us our strengths and weaknesses,” Hymon said.

“It showed us what we need to work on and when we play tougher teams we know what to do and where to go. It was really big to win the last two games and it helps make us closer together as we still learn each other.”

BOYS The Joliet Central boys defeated previously unbeaten Wheaton Warrenville South to claim the title at the State Farm Holiday Classic at the Shirk Center on the campus of Illinois Wesleyan University.

Jason Bingham had a teambest 14 points, while JoJo McNair added 11 and Jose Grupps chipped in 10.

In the semifinal, Central defeated Mahomet-Seymor behind 19 from Grubbs.

BUSINESS + REAL ESTATE

NEWS ABOUT LOCAL BUSINESSES IN YOUR COMMUNITY WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 4, 2017 | BUGLENEWSPAPERS.COM

COLUMN >> DAVE SAYS

Credit cards are not an emergency fund DEAR DAVE, My husband and I are trying to follow your plan. We’ve paid off all of our credit cards, but he still doesn’t want to close the accounts and cut up the cards. Instead, he wants to keep them in a drawer and use them as an emergency fund. He grew up really poor, and I think he’s afraid of being poor again. We both know that’s not what you recommend, so what can I do to convince him to follow your advice?

LYNN DEAR LYNN, I think rather than trying to convince him, it might be a better idea to gently ask questions and talk things through. You said he grew up in poverty. What I’m hearing is that the cards represent a kind of security blanket for him. I can understand that. But if you had $10,000 set aside for emergencies, you’d have the security of knowing that a transmission repair on the car or a new water heater for the house would only be a minor inconvenience — and you wouldn’t have to go back into debt to make things right again.

Explain to him that what you’d like to do is replace the credit cards with your own money. You’d also be replacing what they do with a debit card. Ask him if there’s a reasonable amount you two could have in the bank that would take away his worry and stress. Talk it out, agree on the amount, and then agree that when you’ve saved up and hit that number, the cards get cut up and the accounts are closed.

Just be patient and understanding. Above all, make sure you work together. If he’s recognized the wisdom of getting out of debt and taking control of your finances, he’s moving in the right direction!

— DAVE DEAR DAVE, How do you feel about using layaway programs?

JAY DEAR JAY, I’m not a huge fan of layaway plans, because they’re not really the solution to a problem. What’s wrong with just saving up and buying stuff when you have the cash?

I mean, Christmas comes at the same time every year, you know?

It’s not like it snuck up on you.

I know there are rare instances when particular items are on sale, and you can take advantage of it through layaway if you don’t have the cash at the moment. I don’t really have a problem with that kind of thing in rare instances. But I would not, under any circumstances, use a layaway plan that has fees attached. You might as well borrow the money if you’re going that route.

Here’s a good rule of thumb: if you don’t have the money, you can’t afford it. And make sure you don’t get into the habit of lusting after things you don’t own, because that lack of contentment is always tied to people being broke. Just don’t make plans like this a way of life, Jay. If you do, you’re liable to stay chained to layaway programs just like you’d be chained to debt!

— DAVE DEAR DAVE, My wife and I have been married for 12 years. Last month we found out she has terminal cancer and only six months to live. We’ve been fortunate enough to become fairly wealthy during our lives together, and she wants to buy me a boat.

We always went fishing together, and her last wish is for me to have the boat I’ve always wanted. Even with this prognosis, I’ll be okay financially when she’s gone. Still, I can’t stand the thought of this. It’s just too painful. Do you have any advice?

ANDREW DEAR ANDREW, Buddy, I am so very sorry. I hope you realize that you have the sweetest woman on earth for your wife.

Even with all she’s going through, her thoughts are of you and your happiness. That is one amazing lady.

The first thing I’d tell you both is to make sure your faith is intact.

Hug her a lot, and keep talking to,

praying with, and loving on each other. Be there for her all you can, and keep in mind that doctors can be wrong. It happens a lot, believe it or not, so don’t give up hope.

If she brings up the boat again, just smile and let her know it’s all about her right now. Remind her that she did the nicest thing possible many years ago when she agreed to spend the rest of her life with you. If she’s really stubborn about this idea — something tells me she is, and in the very best way possible — promise her that whether you win or lose this fight you’ll buy that boat someday and name it after her.

In other words, just tell her the truth and be real. If she goes home to be with the Lord, there might come a day down the road when the pain you’ll feel has dulled just a little, and you find yourself sitting on that fishing boat that’s named after her. That would be okay. I’m sure she would be smiling at you while you reeled in a big one. But you’ve got more important things to take care of right now — namely her.

GOD BLESS YOU BOTH, ANDREW. — DAVE DEAR DAVE, My husband has two trucks, one of which is a work truck at his construction site. It’s in really bad shape, and he wants to take $16,000 out of savings to buy another one. We only have $17,000 in the account. What should we do?

CAROLINE DEAR CAROLINE, Your husband wants to drain your savings to buy a $16,000 vehicle and roll it up to a construction site? I think this guy has been watching too many macho-man truck commercials.

In the real world, some hard hat will run into it with a piece of heavy equipment or drop a load of bricks off center and put some big time damage on this truck before he puts 1,000 miles on it.

— DAVE * Dave Ramsey is CEO of Ramsey Solutions. He has authored seven bestselling books, including The Total Money Makeover. The Dave Ramsey Show is heard by more than 12 million listeners each week on 575 radio stations and multiple digital platforms. Follow Dave on the web at daveramsey.com and on Twitter at @DaveRamsey.

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CALENDAR

ONGOING Birthing Center Tours. Tuesdays.

7 p.m. Silver Cross Hospital will offer free Birthing Center Tours for expectant families at 1900 Silver Cross Blvd., New Lenox. The hour-long tour will be offered Saturday and Sunday afternoons and on Tuesdays at 7 p.m. in December to help parents prepare and expect the best from their birthing experience in the hospital’s luxurious birthing suites.

JANUARY 7 “O Come, Let Us Adore Him,” Cathedral of Saint Raymond Nonnatus’ second installment of its 2016-2017 Cathedral Music Series is at 7 p.m. at 604

N. Raynor Avenue, Joliet. A free-will offering benefits the Cathedral Music Program. Ample free parking is available. For additional details, contact the Music Office, (815) 722-6653.

“Bonne Annee.” 2-3:30 p.m. at Isle a la Cache Museum, 501 E. Romeo Road. French-Canadian fur traders celebrated many holidays back in the 1700s including “Bonne Annee” or “Good (New) Year.” Enjoy stories, games, tasty treats and crafts.

Registration is required for the free,

all-ages program by Jan. 5; call 815886-1467.

JANUARY 8 Living History Demonstration. Noon to 3 p.m. at Isle a la

Cache Museum, 501 E. Rome Road.

Volunteer Isle a la Cache Brigade reenactors portray cooks, seamstresses, voyageurs, soldiers and craftsmen from the 18th century fur trade era.

Registration is not required for this free, all-ages program. For more information on these programs and other Forest Preserve District offerings, visit ReconnectWithNature.org.

JANUARY 14 Musher Mania. Noon-4 p.m., at

Monee Reservoir. Held in partnership with the Siberian Husky Club, the day includes watching sled dog teams in action, playing on snowshoes, roasting s’mores by the fire, ice-sculpting demonstrations and more. For more information visit ReconnectWithNature.org.

JANUARY 28MARCH 11 Water|Ways. Saturdays through Saturday, March 11 at Four Rivers Environmental Education Center,

UPCOMING EVENTS IN YOUR AREA WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 4, 2017 | BUGLENEWSPAPERS.COM Channahon. This traveling exhibit from the Smithsonian Institution examines the significance of water on the human experience ReconnectWithNature.org.

FEBRUARY 12 Living History Demonstration. Noon to 3 p.m. at Isle a la

Cache Museum, 501 E. Rome Road.

Volunteer Isle a la Cache Brigade reenactors portray cooks, seamstresses, voyageurs, soldiers and craftsmen from the 18th century fur trade era.

Registration is not required for this free, all-ages program. For more information on these programs and other Forest Preserve District offerings, visit ReconnectWithNature.org.

MARCH 12 Living History Demonstration. Noon to 3 p.m. at Isle a la

Cache Museum, 501 E. Rome Road.

Volunteer Isle a la Cache Brigade reenactors portray cooks, seamstresses, voyageurs, soldiers and craftsmen from the 18th century fur trade era.

Registration is not required for this free, all-ages program. For more information on these programs and other Forest Preserve District offerings, visit

ReconnectWithNature.org.

MARCH 18 Pioneer Festival and Pancake Breakfast. 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. at

Pilcher Park Nature Center, 2501 Highland Park Drive in Joliet. w Enjoy pancakes, sausage and pure maple syrup for breakfast. There will be maple syrup making demonstrations , pioneer re-enactors, archery, wool spinning, hoop rolling, Native American demonstrations, a buckskin maker and more. Tickets are $9 for adults and $7 for children 12-andunder. For more information, or to purchase tickets, call 815-741-7277 or email pilcherpark@jolietpark.org

APRIL 29 Jammin’ Family Kite Fly. 10 a.m.-

2 p.m., at Plum Creek Nature Center, Crete Township. Illinois Kite Enthusiasts will display synchronized kite dancing and 90-foot flying kites, with intermittent candy drops. Bring your own kite to join in the fun or make one in the nature center.

JUNE 3 Adult Fishing Derby. 7 a.m.-1 p.m., at Monee Reservoir. Sponsored by

WILLIAMS Marilyn J (Curless) Williams, 84, of Plainfield, and formally of Carthage, went to be with the Lord on December 15, 2016. She was born in Quincy on Aug 10, 1932 to Chester and Beauna (Sigafoose) Curless.

She was a retired school teacher with Plainfield School Dist 202, member of the Joliet Chamber Choir, and member of the Plainfield United Methodist Church for over 50 years and sang in the church choir.

She is survived by her children Thomas (Dawn) Williams, Timothy Williams and Jennifer (John) Cook, sister Barbara Hagestrom, her beloved

Cabela’s, the event is $10 per person and will have prizes for the most pan fish, biggest bass and biggest catfish.

One container of bait is provided.

JUNE 10 Island Rendezvous. 11 a.m.-3

p.m., at Isle a la Cache Museum, Romeoville. Experience 18th-century Illinois and connect the past with the present with interactive crafts, games, activities, live music and gifted storytellers. Food will also be available for purchase.

JUNE 17 Arts & Nature on the River. Noon4 p.m., at Four Rivers Environmental Education Center, Channahon. Stroll trails as you watch, listen and participate in a sampling of creative arts inspired by the natural world. See performances and demonstrations, and explore activities and exhibits.

AUGUST 5 Kids’ Fishing Derby. 7 a.m.-1 p.m.

at Monee Reservoir. Prizes will be awarded in three age categories for the largest fish, smallest fish and most fish caught. Open to ages 5-15, the derby is $5 per person.

grandchildren Renee (Brandon) Countryman, Katie,Christopher, Michael and Michelle Williams and great granddaughters Madison and Averi Countryman. She is also survived by her niece Vallie Wellman and nephew Craig Curless and many cousins.

She is preceded in death by her Brother Bruce and sister in law Dorothy Curless as well as her parents.

A Memorial Service will be held January 7 at 10 a.m. at the Plainfield United Methodist Church, 15114 Illinois Street, Plainfield.

Private burial will be held at a later date at Curless family Cemetery in Lorraine, IL. wwwdieterlememorialhome. com Dieterle Memorial Home 630-897-1196

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