Sentinel 8-20-14

Wednesday, August 20, 2014

Vol. 19 No. 36

Voyager Media Publications • shorewoodsentinel.com

local community

Overdose awareness event comes to village E.R.M. Overdose Awareness Foundation will hold an informational rally and memory walk on Aug. 31 By Kris Stadalsky for the bugle/sentinel

sweditor@buglenewspapers.com @buglenewspapers

By Jeanne Millsap for the sentinel Shorewood resident Brian Benak’s wife, family, neighbors, friends and military veterans and supporters threw him a surprise retirement party Saturday at the Joliet VFW post for his 31 years of service in two branches of the military – the U.S. Air Force and the U.S. Army. Benak retires September 1 from active duty and will be inducted into the U.S. Army Retired Reserves. The official celebration began early that afternoon, then a neighborhood party continued way into the night. “I thought we were just going to do some pictures down by the river,” Benak said, “then we’d be home and that’d be it. . . I was overwhelmed.” Operation Welcome You Home began the party with its usual fanfare of veteran motorcycle riders and horns, flags and sirens then escorted Benak and his family to the VFW. To his mother, Barb Benak, her son’s retirement is a relief. She said she couldn’t be more proud of his choice to serve his country, but she worried about him during his deployments in Bosnia, Iraq and Afghanistan. She said she was glued to the television.“I was panic-stricken,” she said. “When he was in Iraq, I have never been so scared in my life.”

See ‘soldier’ page 23

The Details. Shorewood resident Brian Benak’s wife, family, neighbors, friends and military veterans and supporters threw him a surprise retirement party Saturday at the Joliet VFW post for his 31 years of service in two branches of the military – the U.S. Air Force and the U.S. Army. “I’m amazed by his duty and the sacrifice he makes and how dedicated he is,” she said. “It was kind of scary for us, but I think it made (his children) appreciate the things what we have and to see what he’s doing for our country. You see their pride.”

When it comes to drug use and overdose, the days of saying “it doesn’t happen in my backyard” are long gone. In 2011, more than 41,000 people died in the United States from drug overdoses.That was up from 37,000 in 2009, according to International Overdose Awareness Day and the Drug Policy Alliance. Opiates, like heroin, are the largest overdose category. Drug overdose has become so rampant that a day each year is dedicated to raising awareness of the problem. August 31 is Overdose Awareness Day, and in addition to bringing the problem and possible solutions to light, it’s a day to help reduce the stigma of overdose deaths and publicly mourn lost loved ones. E.R.M. Overdose Awareness Foundation, a new organization spearheaded by Elaine Rivas, will hold an informational rally and memory walk on Aug. 31, at Shorewood Towne Center Park, beginning at 6 p.m. Rivas is lining up speakers to talk about what’s going on in our own community, what is being done in response to the problem, what services are available to help and how they can be contacted. “Heroin has been formally announced as an epidemic,” said Rivas, “and unfortunately it’s in our area.” Rivas is also working with several organizations that will set up informational tables, such as support centers, forums and recovery programs. >> see awareness | page 3

2

THE BUGLE/SENTINEL AUGUST 20, 2014

News

community

Rotary Ducks 4 Bucks chance to win cash Annual fundraiser takes place Saturday, August 23 at Seil Road Park

By KriS StadalSKy for the bugle/sentinel

sweditor@buglenewspapers.com @buglenewspapers

If you could use some extra cash - say $500 to $1,000 Shorewood Rotary Ducks 4 Bucks event may be the place to pick some up. Cash prizes for the club’s annual fundraiser is the highlight of the event on Saturday, August 23 at Seil Road Park, but families are welcome to come out for a great day of fun and entertainment as well. “It’s a family activity that’s free, just come and watch the ducks get dumped into the DuPage River if you want,” said Rotary President Jennie Mills. The day starts out at noon with musical entertainment,

“It’s a family activity that’s free, just come and watch the ducks get dumped into the DuPage River if you want,” said Rotary President Jennie Mills. SUBMITTED PHOTO

food vendors, a jumpy house and since it’s at the park, you can let the kids out to run and play, said Mills. At 2:15 p.m. a front end loader will dump 5,000 rubber ducks over the edge of the bridge and into the DuPage River, and the race is on. “The race is exciting,” said

At 2:15 p.m. a front end loader will dump 5,000 rubber ducks over the edge of the bridge and into the DuPage River, and the race is on.

Mills.“It’s like a cascade of yellow ducks dumping into the river.” People get pretty excited as they cheer on their ducks, she said. Their speed is, of course, determined by the flow of the

river. The “owner” of the first duck to cross the finish line will walk away with $1,000. Second place takes home $750 and third gets $500 - not bad for a day at the park.

There are also a variety of gift cards donated by local businesses given away. Tickets are still available through any Shorewood Rotarian, at Hartland Bank and through the Sentinel. They can also be purchased during the event. “We end up selling $1,000 worth of tickets the day of (the event),” Mills said. Tickets are $5 for one duck or $20 for a quack pack family of five. Proceeds from the event go to support Shorewood Rotary Club’s service projects, including scholarships for local high school students heading off to college and Rotary International’s quest to irradiate polio worldwide. And not to worry, said Mills, Rotary has volunteers who fish the ducks back out of the river with nets when the activities are done. “We do clean up the ducks,” she said.

News

local

Village hears plan for marijuana dispensary Midwest Compassion Center is a family-owned business that is competent to begin a medical cannabis business in town By Jeanne Millsap For the sentinel

sweditor@buglenewspapers.com @ShorewoodNews

If a healthcare diagnostic business has its way, a medical marijuana dispensary could be coming to Shorewood. The village board Tuesday night heard a presentation from representatives of Midwest Compassion Center on hopes the business has to sell marijuana in a pharmacy-type dispensary on Amendodge Road, near the Route 59/Interstate 55 interchange. “Medical marijuana has been in the headlines throughout the country,” Mayor Richard Chapman said as he introduced the representatives to the board, “and it has now moved into Illinois.” Company representative William Hollander said Midwest Compassion Center is a familyowned business that is competent to begin a medical cannabis business in town. They will apply for an Illinois dispensary license to operate in Will County in September, Hollander said, as well as licenses to open similar facilities in Kane and DuPage counties. “The state will grant up to 60 licenses,” Hollander told the board, “three in Will County. We would like the opportunity to apply within the village of Shorewood.… Without the community’s support, we don’t think this is viable.”Village trustees asked several questions of the representatives. Trustee >> awareness, from page 1 E.R.M. Overdose Awareness Foundation is just getting started, said Rivas. But it’s something that’s needed in the area. “It’s such a taboo topic,” she said. People envision drug users as having tracks on their arms or living on the streets in squalor, but that’s not an accurate picture of what a heroin user looks like. A neighbor, a friend or a loved one could be a user. Rivas’ own brother died of a drug overdose in 2011, and he

Ed Murphy asked how much inventory would be kept at the facility. “That will be determined by the patient population we serve,” Hollander said. When Trustee Dan Anderson asked if customers would have appointments or would be walkins,Hollander said at the beginning, he expects there will be several walk-ins, but the business will encourage appointments. At the front door, customers will be met by security personnel who will check to make sure the customers have valid users’licenses.Hollander added that they will most likely have a pharmacist on site, as well. “It’s medicine,” Trustee Dan Anderson said. “There are people out there who need it.” Anderson said the concern the village should have is whether there will be adequate security. Hollander said customers would not be able to use the marijuana on site, and the hours of the facility would be similar to other pharmacies in town. “Okay, we got the dialogue going,” said Chapman when the discussion was over. If the business is granted a license, Hollander said they would be back before the board.Trustees Tuesday also approved a $428,882 contract with P.T. Ferro for asphalt improvements on Saddlebrook Roadway. The formal bidding process was waived in favor of more informal quotes. Trustee Murphy had a concern about the

bidding process not being used. “This is a half million dollar program,” he said, “and we don’t go out to bid?” Brian Welch, an engineer with Christopher Burke Engineering, replied that the quotes process was faster than seeking bids, and that the only difference was that there was no formal advertisement when quotes were used. The board also approved a 1,000-ton salt contract from Central Salt, at $92.15/ton. The village needs another thousand tons, Public Works Director Chris Drey said, and he is working on contract negotiations for that additional amount. With around 500 tons leftover from last winter, that would give the village 2,500 tons. During last year’s extended winter season, the village used about 3,000 tons of salt. The board also approved purchasing an outdoor warning siren from Fulton Technologies for $19,500 for use in the Four Seasons Park area. This is the first siren that will be owned by the village, Shorewood Police Chief Aaron Klima said. The others in town are owned by Exelon. Klima said he wants to augment the footprint of the sirens to get better coverage for emergencies. “We want to start building this out,” he said. “We need two or three more.”Trustee Anderson also reminded the board that water main work will be performed throughout the rest of the month on the 500 blocks of Highland, Edgebrook, Shorewood, Cacrest and Parkshore Drives. Residents in the area will be notified of boil orders during those times. They may also call the 24-hour hotline, at (815) 207-4398.

wasn’t a regular heroin user, she said. “Often times, you hear it’s (using heroin) only a choice once,” said Rivas. “You are going to do it and die or it’s a battle you are going to fight the rest of your life.” In addition to community awareness, people can decorate a luminary bag in memory of a loved one lost to overdose and place it along the bank of the river. They can also make a video tribute to those they have lost. To get a luminary bag, contact Rivas at 630-401-5893 or email her

at emroverdoseawareness@gmail. com; or contact Denise Schmidt, Shorewood’s recreation, business and event planner, at 815-7417710. Schmidt said she is personally supporting the event and hopes the first is a successful one. “Our DARE program and police department are supporting the event wholeheartedly,” Schmidt said. “I really hope this is something we will do year after year, and people will be less afraid to come out and participate,” Rivas said.

THE BUGLE/SENTINEL AUGUST 20, 2014

3

4

THE BUGLE/SENTINEL AUGUST 20, 2014

News

will county

Forest officials trying to slow down cyclists Officials with Forest Preserve are considering additional safety measures following the death of a cyclist Aug. 9

By nick reiher managing editor

nreiher@buglenewspapers.com @JolietILNews

Officials with the Forest Preserve District of Will County are considering additional safety measures following the death of a cyclist Aug. 9. at their Hickory Creek Junction Trail in Frankfort Township. Bob Murphy, Forest Preserve District Police chief, said Vaidas Varpucanskis, 542, of Mokena,

died Aug. 9 due to injuries he sustained after he swerved to avoid a passing cyclist and a jogger on the paved Hickory Creek Trail. Murphy said Varpucanskis, who was not wearing a helmet, fell from the bike and struck his back and his head on the pavement. Just before the accident, Murphy said, Varpucanskis was riding downhill at a high rate of speed when he met the oncoming jogger and a cyclist

passing the jogger in an area where it is difficult to see due to a severe curve in the paved trail. Marcy DeMauro, executive director of the Forest Preserve District, gave a prepared report on the incident at the district board’s Aug. 14 meeting. As she did, forest preserve district attorney Bryan Kopman advised her to “stick to the facts” in open session, in case there should be any litigation from the incident. DeMauro noted during her report, as well as after the meeting, that other trails throughout the area as well are seeing more cyclists going at high rates of speed – up to 30 or 35 mph – to train for a race or

More Info DeMauro said they are looking at other safety measures, including increased signage, improved sight lines and wider shoulders on trails for safe passing. get their heartrates up. That combined with an increased number of people using the paved trails is a cause for concern, she said. The trails

are for multi-use – meaning walkers, joggers and cyclists – she said. The forest preserve district has signs posted on the trails – especially in more crowded areas – warning cyclists to be aware of others and slow down. Helmets also are advised, she said. DeMauro said they are looking at other safety measures, including increased signage, improved sight lines and wider shoulders on trails for safe passing. She said the forest preserve district still is in litigation over a cycling death that occurred at its Cruise the Creek event on the Hickory Creek trail last Oct. 5.

News

local

CenterPoint celebrates continued expansion Durbin said repurposing closed facilities can be an iffy prospect By nick reiher managing editor

nreiher@buglenewspapers.com @JolietILNews

To say Eric Gilbert has been involved in CenterPoint’s Will County project from the ground up isn’t an exaggeration. Gilbert, CenterPoint’s senior vice president of Infrastructure and Logistics, told a group gathered Aug. 12 at Joliet’s Union Pacific yard he started on the project in 1999 as an engineer. Now, he said, U.S. Sen. Dick Durbin, Will County Executive Larry Walsh and state Rep. Larry Walsh Jr. were on hand to see the soon-to-be-open 406,000-squarefoot facility for Neovia Logistics Services. Gilbert thanked Durbin and the others for their help in CenterPoint’s growth to some 15 million square feet of warehousing and goods-transfer operations. The Will County property – with the BNSF intermodal in Elwood and the Union Pacific intermodal in Joliet – is the largest inland port in North America and fourth among all ports in the nation. County Executive Walsh remembered throwing a spadeful of dirt “on a very warm summer day in August 2000” at the groundbreaking as a state senator. He said no one, except maybe CenterPoint officials, could have

bugle file photo

U.S. Sen. Dick Durbin, D-Ill., congratulates CenterPoint Properties officials on the progress of their intermodal yards in Joliet and Elwood Aug. 12.Also speaking at the ceremony were, from left, state Rep. Larry Walsh Jr., D-Elwood; Will County Executive Larry Walsh and Eric Gilbert, CenterPoint’s senior vice president of Infrastructure and Logistics.

imagined what the plan would grow to 14 years later. Durbin said repurposing closed facilities can be an iffy prospect. While officials still are trying to find the right project for the closed Chanute Air Force Base, he said new projects for Ft. Sheridan and Glenview Naval Air Station have been successful for their communities. And now, Durbin added, the former Joliet Arsenal has yielded several successful projects, including the intermodal yards. The others being the Abraham Lincoln National Cemetery, the Midewin Tallgrass Prairie and the Prairie View Landfill, operated on contract by Waste Management. Durbin said the project reminded him of the hard work put in by his late colleague,

U.S. Rep. George Sangmeister, a Mokena Democrat. He said what CenterPoint has done will make Illinois stronger now and for the future. Meanwhile, the new building will be ready by the end of the month, officials said. It is expected to handle 100 to 150 trucks a day with shipments of machine parts going in and out. Gilbert said the additional trucks – now and as CenterPoint is built out over the next 10 to 15 years – should be gradual enough to soften the impact on already congested traffic around the intermodals. Gilbert added they are committed to working the local officials on a plan to make traffic safer in the area. The company helped fund the initial study for the interchange.

THE BUGLE/SENTINEL AUGUST 20, 2014

Evelyn A. Olson Hollenberg Evelyn A. Olson Hollenberg, nee Dodge, of Adams, Wisconsin, passed away July 28, following a lingering illness. She was born Nov. 23, 1922 and grew up in Manhattan, Illinois. She graduated from Joliet Junior College. She was preceded in death by her parents and foster parents, siblings, and first husband, the Rev. Donald T. Olson of the Northern Illinois Conference of the United Methodist Church. She is survived by her second husband, Charles “Tod”

Hollenberg of Adams, three daughters and three stepsons, seven grandchildren, and nine great-grandchildren. Kelly was an amazing mother, grandmother and great-grandmother, a respiratory therapist, and a 56-year member of the P.E.O. Sisterhood. Following her wishes, no service is planned. Memorial may be made to Coggey College, 1000 W. Austin, Nevada, Missouri, 64772. A celebration reception will be held in Rockford, Illinois, at a later date.

5

6

THE BUGLE/SENTINEL AUGUST 20, 2014

15

Police Blotter

18

8

3 4 9 10

23 20

11

28

26 25

5

13

19

12

17

27 30 24 6 14

16

1

29 22

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

Joliet 1

Angel Castro-Linquist, 30, 20811 W. Ardmore Circle, Plainfield, was arrested at 3:57 p.m. Aug. 8 at Clinton and Scott for battery and resisting and obstructing a peace officer.

2

Rickie Holley, 41, 508 Bellarmine Drive East, was arrested at 6:51 p.m. Aug. 8 at 508 Bellarmine Drive East for battery.

3

Alejandro Valdez, 31, 21456 Carlton, Crest Hill, was arrested at 7:48 p.m. Aug. 8 at 710 Ingalls for unlawful use of a weapon and possession of cannabis.

4

Mychal A. Hill, 37, 114 Fairmount Ave., Lockport, was arrested at 9:30 p.m. Aug. 8 on the 1100 Block of Highland for possession of drug equipment and possession of cannabis.

5

Delvin Arrington, 18, 230 Fairbanks, was arrested

at 11:23 p.m. Aug. 8 at Marion and Hunter for possession of cannabis.

6

Randy D. Johnson, 32, 828 E. 44th St., Chicago, was arrested at 12:54 a.m. Aug. 8 at 316 N. Bluff for criminal damage to property.

7

Johnny H. Davis, 33, 2114 Luther Ave., Lockport, was arrested at 10:58 p.m. Aug. 8 at Joliet and Jasper for aggravated DUI, DUI- BAC over .08, and DUIalcohol.

8

Nathan E. Gaines, 41, 1103 Oakland Ave., was arrested at 3:04 a.m. Aug. 8 at Elizabeth and Ingalls for DUI-alcohol and possession of controlled substance.

9

Victor J. Ruiz, 25, 1701 Whispering Oaks Drive, Plainfield, was arrested at 12:19 a.m. Aug. 9 at 3333 Black for possession of cannabis. Albert J. Ikerd, 26, 2219 1/2 W. Jefferson, was arrested at 10:23 p.m. Aug. 9 at 3333 Black for possession of cannabis.

10

Clarence L. Walker, 41, 11 1116 Parkwood Drive, was arrested at 9:37 p.m. Aug. 9 at 3333 Black for possession of cannabis.

Terrance O. Smith, 44, 458 Douglas, was arrested at 6:45 p.m. Aug. 9 at 417 W. Jefferson for battery, aggravated assault, and possession of controlled substance. Amanda K. Stewart, 25, 618 N. Broadway, was arrested for battery and obstructing a peace officer.

12

Adjshamia Vidales, 23, 1409 Sterling, was arrested at 6:14 p.m. Aug. 9 at 2424 W. Jefferson for retail theft.

13

Cordell Wise, 40, homeless, was arrested at 4:59 a.m. Aug. 9 at 151 N. Joliet for resisting a peace officer and criminal trespass to real property.

14

Victor Zamudio, 38, 4009 Brenton Drive, was arrested at 6:45 a.m.Aug. 9 at 4009 Brenton for aggravated domestic battery, aggravated criminal sexual assault, and unlawful restraint.

15

Robert L. Grant, Jr., 39, 711 N. Reed, was arrested at 1:35 p.m.Aug. 9 at 118 E. Jackson for retail theft.

16

Michelle M. Jarrett, 32, 526 Abe, was arrested at 10:03 p.m. Aug. 9 at 526 Abe for disorderly conduct and obstructing a peace officer.

17

18

7

2

Dennis R. Pitts, 42, 512 Nassau Ave., Bolingbrook,

was arrested at 4:12 p.m.Aug. 9 at 3340 Mall Loop for endangering the life and health of a child and disorderly conduct. Lizeaux D. Davis, 24, 416 Madeline, was arrested at 7:19 p.m. Aug. 9 at Washington and Seeser for criminal damage to property and a warrant.

19

Egael S. Hernandez, 22, 668 N. Broadway, was arrested at 10:43 p.m. Aug. 9 at 668 N. Broadway for loud and unnecessary noise.

20

Robert L. Gilmore, 45, 1301 Justice Lake Drive, was arrested at 11:13 p.m. Aug. 9 at 1301 Justice Lake for domestic battery, possession of cannabis and interfering with reporting of domestic violence.

21

D. Andrew, 28, 504 22 Derrick Bellarmine Drive West, was arrested at 11:47 p.m. Aug. 9 at 504 Bellarmine for assault. Zachary A. Helland, 23, 2517 Inwood Drive, was arrested at 12:15 a.m. Aug. 9 on the 700 block of Summit for obstructing a peace officer.

23

Draysean D. Harper, 24, 18340 Anthony Ave., Country Club Hills,was arrested at 2:57 a.m. Aug. 9 at 363 Broadway for possession of cannabis.

Michael A. Kiesow, 40, 106 E. Jefferson, Shorewood, was arrested at 6:45 p.m. Aug. 9 at Route 52 and I-55 for manufacture and delivery of controlled substance.

25

Daniel N. Madlock, 28, 815 Gael Drive, was arrested at 6:57 a.m. Aug. 10 at 216 Madison for criminal damage to property.

26

Glenn M. Jessup, 26, 112 Twin Oaks Drive, was arrested at 7:53 p.m. Aug. 10 at 300 N. Bluff for criminal trespass to real property.

27

Tina M. Tighe, 47, 621 Oneida, was arrested at 10:42 p.m.Aug. 10 at 621 Oneida for assault and resisting and obstructing a peace officer.

28

Jim W. Byrd, 49, 311 Wheeler Ave., was arrested at 7:07 p.m. Aug. 10 at 311 Wheeler for aggravated domestic battery and criminal damage to property.

29

Patrick K. O. Beck, 24, 316 N. Bluff, was arrested at 8:32 p.m. Aug. 10 on the 300 block of Ottawa for violating an order of protection and obstructing a peace officer.

30

24

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

ForUM Post your thoughts!

reserve the right to publish, condense, revise or reject any submissions.

Send us your news It’s easy! Just follow the 5 W’s: What is happening: Describe the event or the purpose of the news release. Who: The subject of the event. Also, include a name and phone number or e-mail address that can be published so readers can call for more information. When: Give date and time. Why, or for what purpose: Explain the nature of the event. Where is it happening: Give the exact street address. E-mail community news releases to sweditor@buglenewspapers.com The Bugle reserves the right to subsequent publication of all submissions, in full or in part, through the newspaper’s archives or any other electronic library.

Send us your photos Did your club host a bake sale? Did your church group volunteer to paint a senior’s home? If you have photos from your group’s fundraisers or events we would be glad to publish them. Please submit them to sweditor@buglenewspapers.com. Be sure to include information about the event, such as when, why and where it occurred. Opinions printed on this page, whether in Letters to the Editor or in columns or cartoons, are the opinions of the writer and not necessarily of this newspaper, its publishers, editor or employees. Only editorials reflect the views of the newspaper.

General Manager V.P. Advertising and Marketing Michael James mjames@voyagermediaonline.com Managing Editor Nick Reiher nreiher@buglenewspapers.com 815-436-2431 ext. 117 Assistant Managing Editor Jonathan Samples jsamples@buglenewspapers.com Reporters Stewart Warren Jonathan Samples Alex Hernandez Laura Katauskas Sports Editor Scott Taylor staylor@buglenewspapers.com Advertising Director Pat Ryan pryan@enterprisepublications.com

facebook.com/thebuglenewspapers twitter.com/buglenewspapers instagram.com/buglenewspapers

Production Director Andrew Samaan andrew@buglenewspapers.com Enterprise Newspapers, Inc. 23856 Andrew Road #104 Plainfield, IL 60585 (815) 436-2431 • Fax (815) 436-2592 Mon. - Fri. 9 a.m. to 5 p.m Editorial Deadlines Calendar & News: 3 p.m. Monday, three weeks before date of publication sweditor@buglenewspapers.com www.buglenewspapers.com Ad Deadlines Space and Copy deadlines for Display and Classified Ads is 12 p.m. Friday before date of insertion. classifieds@buglenewspapers.com Legals, Obituaries and Happy Ads are due at 12 p.m. Friday. announcements@buglenewspapers.com

7

guest coluMn

You’re invited to use the Forum page of The Bugle to express your opinions about matters that affect our community. E-mail your letter to our newsroom at sweditor@buglenewspapers.com. For more information, call (815) 436-2431. Letters to the editor must include the writer’s name, address and daytime phone number for verification purposes. Please try to limit your comments to 500 words or less. The editors

THE BUGLE/SENTINEL AUGUST 20, 2014

WItH REp. NAtALIE MANLEy (D-JOLIET) 98TH DISTRICT

School for children today is so much different than it was for me when I was growing up I always love this time of year. I remember the parent-teacher meetings and helping my daughter hurry to finish summer assignments the last weekend of vacation. I enjoy seeing children and their parents join the rush of families at stores to gather school

supplies and new clothes to fit their children who seemingly grow overnight. Providing our students with a top-tier education is one of the best things we can do to give them the social, cognitive and communication skills that they need to succeed in today’s global economy. School for children today is so much different than it rep. nataLie manLeY was for me when I was growing up. (D-JoLIeT) 98TH Technology has DIsTrICT drastically changed

Understanding more about this issue led me to work with local law enforcement to pass a new law increasing penalties on heroin dealers while getting students the help and treatment they need. the way that our children learn. Computers are central to classroom education, and making >> see our house | page 8

coluMn

What if you have to stop while going through Hell? By nick reiher managing editor

nreiher@buglenewspapers.com @JolietILNews

A multi-year project from hell is done. State Rep. Larry Walsh Jr. announced at a project update ceremony for CenterPoint Properties the Des Plaines River Bridge on Interstate 55 will be open by Labor Day. Later, he announced they would be open by the end of the week. I felt a little sorry for Durbin. Already he had watched as Barack Obama turn “Barackstar” and whiz past him from state senator, to U.S. senator to the White House. And here he was nice enough to stop in Will County recently to congratulate CenterPoint Properties on opening a new warehouse on the Joliet portion of their intermodal yards. Before the event, he munched on a spread laid out by Autobahn Catering (Definitely not fast food, despite the name. They have a gourmet chef on staff.Very good stuff). Then they talked about the growth of CenterPoint and how Durbin has helped get funding to make the expansions possible there. They all talked about the challenges success has brought, including helping to turn the area into a truck autobahn.

Eric Gilbert, CenterPoint’s senior vice president of Infrastructure and Logistics, said the company has poured millions into helping alleviate traffic problems around the two intermodal yards. The big problem, he said, has been nearly constant construction on I-55 for the past several years. First, it was the construction of the Arsenal Road interchange that had things backed up. Soon after the interchange, which was to directly help traffic flow into and out of the intermodals, opened in 2012, the state began repairing the Des Plaines River Bridge just to the north. Since the Arsenal Road interchange is close enough to the bridge, truckers didn’t want to lose a lot of time and money waiting for their turn to cross the bridge. So they, like other drivers who felt the same way, found other routes. Even Durbin said he traveled enough on I-55 to know to take the North River Road exit to Illinois 53 and north.So do thousands of others who do the same every day. That has caused big problems for regular folks who want to travel Illinois 53 between Joliet and Wilmington, including those in processions heading to the Abraham Lincoln National Cemetery near Elwood’s intermodal. That section of Illinois 53 has

become an accident waiting to happen. A young girl was killed at Mississippi and Illinois 53 several months ago. The same is only a blown tire away from happening at the Chicago Street viaduct just south of Interstate 80. But the Des Plaines River Bridge project has been one of the most – if not the most – dangerous projects for drivers in my memory. Last year was pure hell. Dozens of accidents and two fatalities. This year? Maybe fewer accidents, but then there were two on July 21 when five people were killed in two separate accidents within an hour on each side of the construction zone. But it’s done. Now, there will be just the cross-country traffic from Louisiana to Chicago, I-55’s route, merging with the locals. Pardon me if I don’t join in the parade of people who want to see three lanes each way on the Des Plaines River Bridge.Thankfully, state officials say it’s not in their plans. But coming in the next few years could be the widening of Interstate 80,complete with the “straightening” of that Des Plaines River Bridge. And then the interchange reconstruction at I-55 and Weber Road.Being at the crossroads of two major interstates might be good for business, but it can be pretty tough if you get caught in the crosshairs.

8

THE BUGLE/SENTINEL AUGUST 20, 2014

News

will county

Objection filed to Joliet redistricting petitions About 15 members of the Concerned Citizens of Joliet filed a stack of petitions

By bugle staff sweditor@buglenewspapers.com @BugleNewspapers

Joliet officials will meet Aug. 18 in response to an objection filed to petitions for a referendum seeking to break Joliet into eight council districts. About 15 members of the Concerned Citizens of Joliet filed a stack of petitions at City Clerk Christa Desiderio’s office. The stack included the signatures of 2,456 Joliet residents who want to see Joliet divided into eight geographic areas so a City Council member could be elected from each one, eliminating the three atlarge council positions.

>> our house, from page 7 sure that teachers have up-to-date materials is difficult during these tough economic times. I have made it a priority to tour schools in the district, visit classrooms, meet with teachers, PTAs, principals, and superintendents, to make sure that I am aware of our local schools’ needs, and to collaborate on how we can be efficient and effective in our efforts to improve education. In Springfield, I sit on a House budget appropriation committee, so I understand there aren’t a ton of resources to go around. However, earlier this summer, I opposed a budget proposal that would have resulted in devastating cuts to schools – because I know that smart budgeting also means prioritizing spending for what is most important, and that underfunding schools would have devastating long-term consequences in our communities. I also know the success of our children is largely determined by the environment and circumstances that we provide for them. The first teacher a child has is right at home. Parental involvement is critical in a child’s class performance, and that includes sending them to school with all of the tools that they need to excel. Heading back to school might mean making sure doctors’ appointments and medical needs

Monday, Aug. 11, was the deadline to file objections to those petitions. And Sarah Andreano filed the objection just before the close of business that day, said City Attorney Jeff Plyman. He believes she is challenging the number and veracity of the signatures. So the city’s electoral board – composed of Mayor Tom Giarrante, Clerk Christa Desiderio and senior councilman Mike Turk – will meet at 3 p.m. Monday to establish rules, Plyman said. He also will ask the electoral board’s permission to view the official signatures at the Will County Clerk’s Office. Representatives of those who submitted the petitions and those objecting also will be on

hand, he said. The possibility of dividing the city into eight districts has been discussed off and on for about a decade, Rodriguez said. The Concerned Citizens of Joliet is a much younger group. It was formed in late 2012 when a detention center for illegal immigrants was proposed for the city. When that idea was shot down, the group continued meeting. They first proposed the eightdistrict concept late last year as the city was going through the redistricting process. At the time, the members realized that six members of the City Council live in the same general area on Joliet’s near West side.

are kept up to date. If you are a new parent, or new to this area, I encourage you to get involved with your child’s school and begin an open line of communication with his/her teachers. Unfortunately, even after we have reviewed our back-to-school checklist, there are some factors that are out of our control. ast school year, I partnered with a Parent Teacher Organization to provide information to students, parents and teachers on online bullying and harassment – which is a threat that we didn’t have back in my school days. However, bullying in any form can have a devastating impact on a child’s learning and their lives as a whole. Today, social media has taken it even further. Students should feel safe in their classrooms, and bullying can threaten a student’s physical as well as mental health. Talk to your kids about bullies and encourage them to talk to a trusted adult when they experience bullying or see others being bullied. Some schools have programs in place to specifically address bullying, so I encourage you to reach out to your child’s teacher or school principal for any specific protocols. Will County has seen an alarming increase in heroin use among youth, and it is destroying lives of students and even taking them. I was outraged after learning about drug use among children,

and the drug dealers who prey on children as young as eighth grade. Understanding more about this issue led me to work with local law enforcement to pass a new law increasing penalties on heroin dealers while getting students the help and treatment they need. There is still much more to do on this issue, but I always ask everyone to help increase awareness of the problem, learn the warning signs that someone may be using, and learn how to access support services in your school or community. Since taking the oath of office, I have offered internships to high school students from our area, offered college preparedness seminars,and visited with students of all ages in their classrooms, even sat down during lunch in their cafeteria! I have seen firsthand that we have some of the brightest in the state and nationwide. They have lots of potential, and with our support, the possibilities for them are limitless. Working with student volunteers in my district office has enhanced my experience as a state Rep, and I am looking forward to seeing their accomplishments this school year. If you have a high school student that wants to volunteer in my office or if you have any questions on state issues, please call my office at (815) 725-2741. Natalie Manley State Representative, 98th District

News

Photo by John patsch | for the bugle

Northbound lanes on the Interstate 55 Bridge over the Des Plaines River are open, with all lanes open by this weekend, state Rep. Larry Walsh Jr. announced.

transportation

I-55/Des Plaines River bridge open Truck drivers trying to avoid traffic on I-55 near the bridge have used alternative routes, including Illinois 47 through Morris, and Illinois 53 through Wilmington

around the bridge construction. Out of that came the addition nreiher@buglenewspapers.com of “smart signs,” designed @JolietILNews to provide extra warning to Northbound lanes on the drivers in both directions on Interstate 55 Bridge over the I-55 as far as 25 miles away. Des Plaines River are Officials said the open, with all lanes signs and other new open by this weekend, efforts seemed to state Rep. Larry Walsh be reducing serious Jr. announced. accidents, until five Speaking earlier people were killed in in the week at a two separate accidents construction update within an hour July 21 on the CenterPoint on I-55 near the Des Intermodal yard in state Rep. Larry Plaines River Bridge Joliet, Walsh said he Walsh Jr. construction zone. got the word earlier The semitrailer that day about the opening. driver accused in four of the He said at that point the deaths -- Francisco Espinalnorthbound lanes would be Quiroz, 51, of Leesburg, Indiana open soon, followed by the -- was charged with two class 4 southbound lanes by Labor Day. felonies that included falsifying Then he revised it. his log book and failing to He said he hoped truckers maintain log book records. who have used local roads The driver of the semi in the to get around the bridge other accident was found to reconstruction will now stay on have a medical condition, and I-55 or get off at the Arsenal Road he subsequently died. interchange, completed two Truck drivers trying to years ago to handle the truck avoid long and costly traffic traffic around CenterPoint’s congestion on I-55 near the park, which includes the BNSF bridge have used alternative intermodal in Elwood and the routes, including Illinois 47 Union Pacific yard in Joliet. through Morris, and Illinois 53 The Elwood Democrat through Wilmington, Elwood convened a blue ribbon and Joliet, jamming up traffic at committee of state and local the Chicago Street interchange officials last year following on Interstate 80. dozens of accidents, including The additional traffic on two fatal, that occurred in and Illinois 53 has compounded By nick reiher managing editor

problems already seen from trucks using Walter Strawn Drive off the state route to get to the BNSF intermodal yard in Elwood. The increase in trucks on Walter Strawn Drive, built specifically as an east entrance to the BNSF yard, has caused problems at the Amtrak crossing just west of the highway, to the point where Elwood tried to limit access to its BNSF yard only, blocking trucks going north from there to the UP yard. Elwood recently rescinded that order, following a federal judge blocking the village from restricting the traffic less than a week after the order was issued. Asked what can be done to help traffic problems at Walter Strawn Drive, Will County Executive Larry Walsh said the state, county and local stakeholders have been working on a public-private partnership that would build a new bridge extending Houbolt Road south from I-80 directly to the CenterPoint property. He said they hope that project could come to fruition within three to five years. Already the discussion has included the bridge feature tolls for trucks only, and a free lane for cars. State Rep. Walsh has said that when that bridge is open, he would support closing access on Walter Strawn Drive from Illinois 53, which should alleviate problems there and cut down drastically on all truck traffic on that highway.

THE BUGLE/SENTINEL AUGUST 20, 2014

9

10

THE BUGLE/SENTINEL AUGUST 20, 2014

tAKe 5 Aries

maRCh 21 TO aPRIL 20

Remain objective about achieving your objectives. A loved one or concerned companion might push a few of your buttons this week, or you may have the urge to be impulsive and become too emotionally involved.

gemini

m ay 2 2 T O J U N E 2 1

You may be pressured to part with your hard-earned pennies in the week ahead. Peer groups may expect you to make a donation or contribute to a gift fund. Making new investments won’t help you realize your dreams.

leo

J U Ly 2 3 T O a U G U s T 2 1

Inspiration is the key that can unlock your potential. The week ahead may offer many opportunities to find new stimuli by reading, meditating, or meeting people who have a lifestyle you can aspire to for yourself.

Across 1 LIkE mUCh OsCaRNIGhT aTTIRE 5 UNDER-ThE-sINk INsTaLLaTION 10 TakE a shINE TO? 14 Jazz sINGER hORNE 15 IsLaND NEaR CURaçaO 16 1930s mIGRaNT TO CaLIfORNIa 17 faR __ 18 RIvER WhERE ROmULUs aND REmUs WERE abaNDONED 19 hOT 20 *GaRDEN DIsPLay 23 OkLahOma TRIbE 24 sENDs REGRETs 28 CRazED mUPPET DRUmmER 31 bRIGhT LIGhT 33 bambOOzLED 34 *PaPER fasTENER 36 WhERE aNDy CaPP ‘aNGs ‘Is ‘aT 37 NOGGIN 38 GO IN hasTE 39 sTRETCh 40 mED. Lab LETTERs 41 *fEaTURE Of sOmE kILTs 45 aCTOR WaLLaCh 46 CREaTUREs Of habIT? 47 UNfaNCy TO ThE maX? 48 REaDy TO bE sERvED 50 ThREE fRENCh hORNs, IN a PROkOfIEv CLassIC 51 ELECTRICIaN’s COvERs, aND a hINT TO ThE ENDs Of ThE aNsWERs TO sTaRRED CLUEs 57 TakE a vERbaL shOT aT 60 smaLL PORCh 61 sITaRIsT shaNkaR 62 bUsy 63 mEL-TONEs fRONTmaN 64 PLaCE fOR ThE fIRsT 42-DOWN?

65 OPENs, as a CaR TRUNk 66 sPRINTER’s assET 67 sTINky

Down 1 PITCh INDICaTOR 2 GET baCk ON ONE’s fEET 3 “yOU aRE __ mUCh TROUbLE!” 4 sUPERvILLaIN WITh a WhIP 5 POUNDs a bEaT 6 shEER NONsENsE 7 hICk 8 DIsabLE ThE sECURITy sysTEm fOR, say 9 LIGhTWEIGhT UmbRELLa 10 DOmINEERING 11 maUI sTRINGs 12 TOUGh sPOT 13 TINa Of “DaTE NIGhT” 21 abbR. fOR ThE NamELEss? 22 shIPPING ROUTE 25 PaTRONIzE 26 JET LEGEND 27 DaNIsh sEaPORT 28 mOsEys 29 COmPass POINT? 30 vENEzIa’s LaND 31 INNOCENTs

32 fOIL kIN 35 DELI sLICING REqUEsT 39 OLD saLT 41 mORE ThaN sUsPECTED 42 COLONy REsIDENTs 43 saT (DOWN) UNGRaCEfULLy 44 haNG OUT IN ThE hammOCk 49 Usaf E-6’s 50 qUEsTION bEfORE “yEah, yOU!” 52 ‘vETTE ROOf OPTION 53 PEaR REmNaNT 54 “yay, mE!” 55 NECk aND NECk 56 hOLE ON ThE GREEN 57 sTaTIC JOLT 58 skaTER mIDORI 59 sWIG Tribune Content Agency 2014

librA

sEPTEmbER 24 TO OCTObER 23

Passions can pull you in conflicting directions. Friends may be generous toward you in the week ahead, but you might be challenged by a desire to return the favor in excessive ways. A flirtation could become intense.

sAgittArius

NOvEmbER 23 TO DECEmbER 22

You could be pressured to keep up with the Joneses or make purchases so you fit into a group. Membership dues and mandatory contributions during the upcoming week could put a temporary dent in your wallet.

AquArius

JaNUaRy 21 TO fEbRUaRy 19

True security involves more than having a few dollars in your pocket and the ability to spend extravagantly. In the week ahead, consider ways to make your future more comfortable and your present success lasting.

Sudoku

tAurus

a P R I L 2 1 T O m ay 2 1

If the choice is all or nothing, you might be better off choosing nothing. Your natural inclination is to go along with the crowd, but others may crowd you into a corner. Avoid being extravagant in the week to come.

cAncer

J U N E 2 2 T O J U Ly 2 2

No generous gesture goes unnoticed. You may have the urge to go to extremes in the week ahead. You might spend a little too much money to impress your friends, or become the target of someone’s obsessive amorous attentions.

virgo

aUGUsT 22 TO sEPTEmbER 23

An inspired idea of how you can achieve a more prosperous future may be planted this week. All the same, remember that money doesn’t grow on trees. Remain on your guard against wasteful spending.

scorpio

OCTObER 24 TO NOvEmbER 22

Other people might see the big picture even if you don’t. A romantic partner might feed your ambition in the week ahead, but you could be the one who must pick up the tab. Don’t be distracted by the social scene.

cApricorn

DECEmbER 23 TO JaNUaRy 20

An apple and a snake are not needed to make you fall prey to temptation. In the week ahead, you might be attracted to someone that you just can’t get out of your mind. Avoid extravagance in thought and deed.

pisces

fEbRUaRy 20 TO maRCh 20

Bonds strengthen over time. Perfect attunement might be developing with a new friend. You may gain acceptance in a group, but avoid rushing the process or forcing growth. Confidence grows all week long.

Jumble

PreviouS Puzzle’S anSwerS

PreviouS Puzzle’S anSwerS

PreviouS Puzzle’S anSwerS

Jumbles:

• ELDER • PURGE • EXOTIC • PENCIL

Answer:

WhEN ThEy askED fOR a ROOm, ThE hOTEL CLERk Was -- PREOCCUPIED

INSIDE: Athletes to watch around the area, page 12; NASCAR week brings action to Chicagoland, page 13

buglenewspapers.com

THE BUGLE/SENTINEL AUGUST 20, 2014

11

Area getting ready for football By Mark Gregory sports reporter

mark@buglenewspapers.com @Hear_The_Beard

Joliet Central will be trying for its first win since the programs split and will do so at home with a 6:30 p.m. kick off Friday, Aug. 29 against Thornridge. The Steelmen then travel to Rich South for a noon kickoff before returning home to host Bolingbrook at 1 p.m. Sept. 13. Central then heads to Homewood-Flossmoor for a 7:30 p.m. Sept. 19 and then hosts Sandburg at 1 p.m. Sept. 27 before a pair of road games. Central has two straight 7 p.m. kickoffs, at Stagg Oct. 3 and at Lockport Aug. 10. October 18 is the head-to-head match-up between Joliet West and Central and will be played at Central at 1 p.m. The Steelmen end the season at 7:30 p.m. Oct. 24 at LincolnWay East.

JOLIET CATHOLIC After posting a 10-2 record a year ago, Joliet Catholic Academy will look for another successful season and another run at a state

title. That run will open at home against Providence Catholic at 7:30 p.m.Aug. 29.The Hilltoppers then travel to Wheaton North this season on Sept. 5 at 7:30 p.m. To open the ESCC schedule, JCA travels to Carmel for a 7:30 p.m. game Sept. 12. The league schedule continues with a road game at Marian (Sept. 26, 7:30 p.m.), home with Marian Catholic (Oct. 3, 7:30 p.m.). The Hilltoppers travel to Nazareth for their only Saturday game of the year with a 1:30 kickoff Oct. 11. Joliet Catholic then closes the regular season with a pair of home games with Benet (Oct. 17, 7:30 p.m.) and Marist (Oct. 24, 7:30 p.m.).

JOLIET WEST Joliet West opens the season on the road at Tinley Park Aug. 29 at 7 p.m. The Tigers then have a pair of home games back-toback, ending the preseason at noon Sept. 6 against King and opening SWSC league play Sept. Mark Gregory/Bugle Staff

>> see READY | page 16

Minooka’s Nate Gunn is back to lead the Indians this season.

12

THE BUGLE/SENTINEL AUGUST 20, 2014

Sports

Several local athletes to keep an eye on in the fall By Mark Gregory sports reporter

mark@buglenewspapers.com @Hear_The_Beard

As fall sports season stats and football takes prep sports headlines, there are several high school athletes not on the gridiron for local sports fans to watch as the year goes by.

MADDIE BAUER AND McCOY HUTCHINSON A year ago, the pair of JCA freshmen teamed up to place second in doubles at the tennis sectional and advance to the state meet.

NINA BERTINO Junior is back for Joliet Catholic Academy after placing second in singles at sectional and advancing to the state tennis >> see EYE | page 16

Mark Gregory/Bugle Staff

Joliet’s Trent Wallace is one of the local athletes to watch this season.

Sports

Mark Gregory/Bugle Staff

Joliet’s Race Fan Rally, held downtown Thursday, Sept. 11, will again feature the sounds of 7th Heaven.

NASCAR week full of action While the Chase for the NASCAR Sprint Cup doesn’t get underway until Sunday, Sept. 14, with the MyAFibStory. com 400, race fans heading to Chicago will have plenty to do the week before as NASCAR rolls into the Windy City. NASCAR Night at Bub City hosted by Chicagoland Speedway takes place on Wednesday, Sept. 10, as one of Chicago’s premier barbeque and country music hotspots plays host to drivers and race fans for a night of dueling pianos, BBQ, drinks, and giveaways. Admission is free and the night begins at 7:00 p.m., with driver appearances and dueling pianos taking place at 9:00 p.m. Also on Wednesday, Chase Grid Live kicks off fromTribune Tower Plaza in downtown Chicago from 1 – 8 p.m. The free, two-day event begins with a fan festival featuring NASCAR personalities, show

cars, music, food and more. On Thursday, Sept. 11, the event continues all day long with all 16 Chase drivers making an appearance from 4:30 p.m. - 6:30 p.m. It will mark the first time the group will gather prior to competing in the new Chase for the Sprint Cup elimination format. Joliet’s 14th annual Race Fan Rally returns Thursday from 4 p.m. – 10 p.m. in downtown Joliet. Race Fan Rally is a free fan event that kicks off NASCAR’s Chase weekend at Chicagoland Speedway and is one of the largest single day race fan events in the country. Race Fan Rally includes the Sprint Cup Series hauler parade along with entertainment, driver appearances, race simulators, live music, hot food, cold drinks and a KidZone area for children. On Thursday evening, head to Joe’s Bar on Weed

Street to see Craig Campbell with Mockingbird Son for the NASCAR Weekend KickOff Party with US99.5 and Chicagoland Speedway. Doors open at 7:00 p.m. with Mockingbird Sun taking the stage at 7:45 p.m., while Craig Campbell is scheduled to go on at 9:30 p.m. Tickets are just $30, and include the concert along with NASCAR trivia with prizes and giveaways. Thursday evening is also home to a more formal option, as Kurt Busch and the Illinois State Crime Commission host the Windy City Salute to the Armed Forces Foundation. Tickets for this event can be purchased here to benefit the Armed Forces Foundation and their mission to protect and promote the physical, mental, and emotional wellness of military service members, veterans and their families. As >> see ACTION | page 16

THE BUGLE/SENTINEL AUGUST 20, 2014

13

14

THE BUGLE/SENTINEL AUGUST 20, 2014

Sports

mark + scott’s

review

Voyager Media recap

Year in Review Great courses, great fun By Scott Taylor & Mark Gregory

sports editor & sports reporter

staylor@enterprisepublications.com @Taylor_Sports mark@buglenewspapers.com @hearthebeard

With our 2014 golf review season over, it is time to reflect on the summer it was. Mark Gregory and Scott Taylor played a total of 10 courses, including 63 holes in a day in Michigan, playing four courses that day. Here are their top three courses each.

Scott’s picks: 3.While all 10 courses we played were fun, my third favorite course of the summer was Cantigny in Wheaton.We played the WoodsideLakeside combination and it impressed from the start. The par-5 second hole was one of my top five holes played all year long. There were several tight holes and several holes with water. It was probably one of the three most difficult courses of the year as well, but the challenge added to its fun. Each hole was unique and there was a nearly drivable par-4, which there should be on every course, in my opinion.The course was probably in the best shape of any course we played as there were few ball marks and divots on the course.

2. Our last course we played, Harborside International, was my second favorite. While I don’t think you can expect a 30+ mile an hour wind the way we had, we were told it is windy most of the time. While that makes it difficult, it also makes it more fun to see how you can play in those conditions. While there might not have been a hole as great as the second at Cantigny, all of the holes were very strong, in my opinion. Adding to the mystique of the course was the background of the Chicago Skyline on a few of the early holes. If that wasn’t good enough, there are the last few holes played along Lake Calumet. It isn’t often you get to play along a lake as large as that one is. The first course we played at Treetops Resort in Gaylord, Michigan, was my favorite. Unfortunately, we had to skim through the back nine due to time, but there were a lot of great holes. None was better than the large 80foot drop at the par-3 eighth hole. The rough and greens were the most difficult I have ever played. Several holes offered great challenges but there were also some strong scoring holes as well. There was a potential drivable hole on the course, as well. It ended up being a great way to start our 63 holes in a day. If I was ever up in that area again, I would be sure to play the Premier Course again.

Year in Review Location: Midwest best feature: 10 top-notch courses played in 10 weeks.

quick tip: Try to play as many different courses as possible

Mark Gregory (left) and Scott Taylor pose after completing the 63-hole “Man vs. Golf challenge at Treetops Resort in Gaylord, Michigan.

Mark’s Picks When Scott and I go out and play these rounds for reviews, I have one motto from the first tee box until the final hole – play for the shot. Sure, we keep scores, but when I have a chance at playing a smart shot that will all but assure me a good score or crazy shot that, if played right, will be a wow moment, well I go for the gusto. 3. The course that offered several of these was Tanna Farms in Geneva. We played more prestigious and more expensive courses this year, but this one gave me what I want – that chance to be Bubba Watsonesque for a day. There are at least three holes

on the course that offer that chance to play the big shot and not play safe and that made this course one that I had a lot of fun playing. 2. My second favorite course was Harborside International. I probably played the worst round of golf of the entire season on this course, but still enjoyed every second on the course. The course played extremely difficult with 30-plus mile per hour winds the whole round. That, coupled with being on one of the top 25 municipal courses in the United States gave Scott and I a glimpse of what the pros go through on a weekly basis. The views on the course from the Chicago Skyline to the

lakefront holes made this an amazing course to play. 1. Three Tops. While I enjoy getting into a good drive as much as the next guy, my favorite part of playing a round of golf is when your midirons are on and you are able to hit the ball at the hole like throwing darts at the green. That was the way I was able to play on the No. 1 par 3 course in America. After missing the first green terribly, I was able to make great club choices and get the perfect swings, landing the ball on the green hole after hole after hole. Now, if I could have putt better, it would have made the round perfect, but nonetheless, a memorable nine holes.

Sports

THE BUGLE/SENTINEL AUGUST 20, 2014

15

Slammers salvage final game with Freedom The Joliet Slammers defeated the Florence Freedom 3-2 in 10 innings on Sunday to save one of the three-game series, Joliet scored in the top of the 1st inning on a 2-out 2-run homer from Matt Weaver. The Slammers’ Andrew Busby got off to a nice start and went into the 5th inning allowing no runs on two hits. Both hits were singles from Sam Eberle. In the bottom of the fifth, Adam Taylor put the Freedom on the scoreboard with a RBI double. In the sixth Zak Blair led off with a triple and scored on a run-scoring single from Eberle. At that point he had three of their six hits.

Jordan Wellander came on in relief at that point and got out of the inning without any more damage with the game tied 2-2. The game stayed 2-2 into the bottom of the ninth. David Kubiak was on the mound for Joliet and gave up a leadoff single to Buddy Sosnoskie. The next hitter, Doug Joyce, bunted up in the air on an apparent bunt-and-run play. Grant DeBruin came in to catch the bunt and threw to first base for the big double play. Kubiak then retired the next hitter to force extra innings. In the top of the 10th, Adam Lewis walked with one out.

Grant DeBruin then singled to left field. Chris Epps flew out to right and then Russell Moldenhauer was walked intentionally to load the bases for Matt Weaver. While Weaver was at the plate, Florence reliever Chris Squires threw a wild pitch in the dirt and Lewis scored what would be the winning run in the 3-2 final. Kubiak closed out the game in the bottom of the 10th and earned the win. Joliet moves to 14-15 in one run games on the season and 5-7 in extra inning contests. • John Maloney became the Slammers 19th starting pitcher for 2014.

He gave up two runs in the first inning thanks to a Rob Kelly 2-run single. Maloney settled in and retired the next five batters is a row. In the third though, the first two men reached base and with two outs, Chance Ross and Adam Taylor came through with back-to-back RBI singles. In the meantime, Joliet scored in the top of the 3rd inning on a Grant DeBruin RBI grounder. They scored again in the 4th on a JD Dorgan RBI groundout to make the score 4-2. Maloney was taken out in the 4th inning with five strikeouts and two walks. Kody McFarland came on in relief for the Slammers.

He gave up a solo homer to Rolando Gomez in the 4th and sacrifice fly to Gomez in the 6th to make it 6-2. Florence starter Peter Gehle gave up several line drives but the defense was up to the challenge. At one point he retired seven in a row and went the first 7 1/3 innings before Ed Kohout came on to finish out the ballgame. McFarland pitched the final five innings for Joliet and struck out two while walking one. DeBruin finished with two hits and an RBI. Chris Epps had reached base in ten straight games coming in, but finished 0-4 on the day. • The Slammers scored in the >> see SLAMMERS | page 16

16

THE BUGLE/SENTINEL AUGUST 20, 2014

>> SLAMMERS, from page 15 top of the 1st inning on a RBI single from Grant DeBruin, his 48th RBI on the season. That also became a Frontier League-best 109th hit on the season. He entered the game with a .351 batting average, second best in the league. >> ACTION, from page 13 part of Chicagoland’s “Salute to America’s Heroes Pre-Race Show Presented by AARP and AARP Foundation Drive to End Hunger, Chicagoland Speedway will donate 100 tickets to the AFF so that service members and their families can attend and >> EYE, from page 12 tournament.

MORGAN BOLLINGER Sophomore was a top-10 placer in the state for Lockport’s girls cross country team last year as a freshman. She finished eighth at the state meet in 17:14.

Sports

In the bottom of the 1st Frontier picked up a 2-out 2-run homer from Jacob Tanis to take a 2-1 lead against Joliet’s Andrew Strenge. He lasted three innings in his surprise start and allowed just those two runs on two hits and struck out three. Ethan Carter then came on and continued to shut down

the Florence offense. On the other side however, Freedom starter Casey Henn was even more brilliant. He allowed two hits in that first inning when Joliet scored, but after that he went six more innings and did not allow a single hit. Henn left after seven innings with the one run allowed on

two hits with three strikeouts and scattered five walks. Carter pitched four shutout innings out of the bullpen but then ran into trouble in the bottom of the 8th. With the bases loaded and one out, Zak Blair lofted a single to left and it scored two runs to make the score 4-1. Pete Levitt came on in relief

of Henn and shut out Joliet over the final two innings but did give up a single to Max Casper in the 9th. It was Joliet’s 1st hit since the 1st inning. Chris Epps drew two more walks on the day and has reached base in every Slammers game since July 28th.

watch Busch compete in the MyAFibStory.com 400. Advance Tickets for MyAFibStory.com 400 start at just $55 with kids 12 and under receiving $25 OFF adult ticket prices in each section. Tickets can be purchased online at www.ChicagolandSpeedway. com, by calling 888-629-RACE, through the Chicagoland

Speedway mobile app, or by visiting the Chicagoland Speedway Administrative office Monday-Friday 8:30 a.m. – 5 p.m. The Chase for the NASCAR Sprint Cup weekend at Chicagoland Speedway, September 12-14, will begin with the NASCAR Camping World Truck Series, Lucas

Oil 225 race under the lights on Friday night. On Saturday, September 13, the NASCAR Nationwide Series, Jimmy John’s Freaky Fast 300 Powered by Coca-Cola will hit the track as the precursor to Sunday’s NASCAR Sprint Cup Series(tm), MyAFibStory.com 400 showdown, this year’s first Chase for the NASCAR

Sprint Cup race. The first race for the Chase for the NASCAR Sprint Cup from Chicagoland Speedway will air live on ESPN at 1 p.m. CT on Sunday, September 14. The race will also be broadcast on the WatchESPN app, MRN and SiriusXM NASCAR Radio, with additional coverage on NASCAR.com.

HAILEY BRUINING Joliet Catholic Academy junior advanced to the state tennis tournament last year while teamed up with Brittney Kupiec.

MACKENZIE CALLAHAN Minooka sophomore placed 56th in the state last season with

a time of 18:06.

GABE CEBELLOS Minooka senior is a returning state qualifier for the Indians’ boys cross country team. He posted a time of 16 minutes, 2 seconds.

EMMIE HAHN Lockport junior helped the Porters last season and is expected to be a top force again this year.As a sophomore, she was 59th at the state meet, running the course in 18 minutes, 10 seconds.

GEHRIG HOLLATZ Lockport senior tied for 56th in the state golf tournament last year with a 155.

HANA KHATIO Senior teamed with the now graduated Jennifer Lee a year ago to advance to the state tennis tournament a year ago for Joliet Catholic Academy.

TOMI JO MANSEL

TRENT WALLACE

Advanced to the state tennis meet last season for Lockport as a freshman after taking third at sectional.

Joliet Township senior tied for 27th at the IHSA state meet a year ago carding a 155 for the tournament.

JCA’s 5-foot, 10-inch senior posted 555 assists, 121 kills, 180 digs, 21 blocks last season while

>> READY, from page 11 13 at noon with HomewoodFlossmoor. West then hits the road for a 7:15 p.m. kickoff at Sandburg Sept. 19 before hosting Bolingbrook Sept. 27 at noon. The Tigers then travel to Lincoln-Way East for a 7 p.m. game before heading home for a rare home night game. West will host Stagg at 6:30 p.m. Oct. 10. After the cross-town rival game at Joliet Central at 1 p.m. Oct. 18, West ends the regular season at Lockport at 7 p.m. Oct. 24.

LOCKPORT There are a lot of new things going on for Lockport this season, but the Porters will open the season with a familiar foe as they travel to Downers Grove

MARY MURPHY

North for a 7 p.m. kick off Aug. 29. The Porters will face Lake Park at 7 p.m. Sept. 5 at home on its new turf field for the first time. Lockport then heads on the road Sept. 12 for a 7 p.m. game at Sandburg to open SWSC play. Lockport then faces LincolnWay East at home at 7 p.m. Sept. 19 and then hits the road again Sept. 26 for a 7 p.m. matchup with Stagg. The Porters spend two weeks in a row at home, as they host Bolingbrook Oct. 3 and Joliet Central Oct. 10. Both games are at 7 p.m. Lockport will end the regular season with a 7 p.m. game Oct. 17 at Homewood-Flossmoor and then end the season at home Oct. 24 at 7 p.m. against Joliet West.

being named to the Voyager Media All Area team a year ago. She also tallied 154 service points including 42 aces and is back to lead the Angels this season.

RAUL ROSENDO Joliet Central junior was the top runner last season for the Joliet Central boys cross country team. He finished 122nd at the state meet as a sophomore, posting a time of 15 minutes, 46 seconds.

LINDSEY VISVARDIS Lockport senior returns his season after posting 400 digs and a 2.05 passing average last season from her libero position.

MINOOKA Again this season, Minooka opens the season with a hard non-conference schedule, opening with Morris at home at 7 p.m. Aug. 29 and travel to Providence for a 7:30 p.m. kickoff Sept. 5. The Indians open the SPC schedule at Romeoville Sept. 12 at 7 p.m. and then return home for Oswego at 7 p.m. Oct. 19. The Indians then have three straight games with Plainfield teams, facing Central at home (Sept. 26, 7 p.m.), at East (Oct. 3, 7 p.m.) and at South for the Ridge Road Rivalry (Oct. 10, 7 p.m.).Minooka then hosts Oswego East at 7 p.m. Oct. 17 and ends the regular season at Plainfield North at 7 p.m. Oct. 24.

sPorts

THE BUGLE/SENTINEL AUGUST 20, 2014

TOP 10 of the WeeK

sCOtt’s tOp 10 FAVORItE GOLF COURsEs EVER pLAyED

TWEETS OF THE WEEK

Joliet central

aBC 7 ChiCago @aBC7CHICago

“Chicago’s Jackie Robinson West dominates in 12-2 mercy-rule win at Little League World Series”

ChiCago CuBs @CUBs

1

FAZiO PreMier Gaylord, Michigan

2

THe BrUTe Lake Geneva, wisconsin

3

GATLinBUrG GC Gatlinburg, Tennessee STArBOArD COUrSe Chicago -Harborside CAnTiGnY wheaton, illinois

4 5 6 7 8

HeriTAGe BLUFFS Channahon, illinois THe HiGHLAnDS Lake Geneva, wisconsin eAGLe KnOLL Hartsburg, Missouri

9

MiSTwOOD GC romeoville, illinois

10

THreeTOPS Gaylord, Michigan

disagree with scott? tweet your top 10 to @hear_the_Beard

#voyagertop10

“Congratulations to Chicago’s Jackie Robinson West All-Stars, who advance in the Little League World Series after today’s 12-2 win. #LLWS” norah o’donneLL @NoraHoDoNNeLL

“Did you see our response to the #IceBucketChallenge? #ALS Assoc says donations last month topped $13M vs. $1.7M last year” atLanta BraVes @BraVes

“Thanks to the #Braves wives and girlfriends for taking the #IceBucketChallenge and helping bring awareness to ALS.” Kurt angLe

@reaLKUrTaNgLe

“Last night i took the #icebucketchallenge for ALS. I did the challenge with milk instead.”

q & a with local athletes

feATUrInG

raytoria richardson Basketball

Favorite social media outlet that you use? Twitter How many followers do you have on twitter? Around 354 followers Who is your favorite pro athlete? Why? Allison Felix because she is very good at what she does and very inspirational. How often do you use social media? Who is your favorite person to follow? Every now and then during the day. I like to follow All Athletes Know. They have inspirational quotes and things all athletes understand. What is your most memorable sports moment? Participating in the All-Star Game.

17

18

THE BUGLE/SENTINEL AUGUST 20, 2014

News bolingbrook

Woman shot during Bolingbrook bank robbery, suspect still at large At press time, authorities were searching for a black male, 6 feet tall with a “thin build” of 190 pounds in his 20s By Alex Hernandez staff reporter

ahernandez@buglenewspapers.com @TheAVHernandez

Police responded to a report of an armed robbery Monday afternoon during which a 21-yearold female teller was shot in the arm. Around noon Bolingbrook police received reports of someone exiting First Midwest Bank at 450 N Bolingbrook Drive wearing a hood or some type of mask. Witness described hearing sounded like a “pop” around the bank as well. “Agents were en route after our office was notified around 12:15 p.m.,” said Joan Hyde, a special agent with the Chicago division of the FBI. At press time, authorities were searching for a black male, 6 feet

COURTESY FBI BANDIT TRACKER

Bolingbrook bank robbery suspect

tall with a “thin build” of 190 pounds in his 20s wearing black hoodie, jeans, a black bandana with white specs on it and a red baseball hat. Hyde said the suspect allegedly fled the scene with cash. Bolingbrook police said he was also seen wearing a mask as he fled. Additionally, a 21-year-old female bank teller was shot during the robbery. “Police were advised a gunshot was fired, and

there was one female victim with a gunshot wound to her arm,” said Bolingbrook police Lt. Mike Rompa in an email to The Bugle. “Bolingbrook officers made entry into the bank and located the victim. She was transported to Adventist Bolingbrook Hospital.” At press time, Hyde said the victim’s injury was not serious. Rompa later told The Bugle she was released from the hospital later that day. Immediately after the incident, diners at a nearby Portillo’s started Tweeting that the restaurant had been put on lockdown by police. A reward is being offered for information regarding the bank robbery suspect. he FBI’s Chicago field office can be reached at 312-421-6700. This is a developing story; check back for updates. Bugle Staff Reporter Laura Katauskas contributed to this story.

crime

Hickory Street Murders: Judge Kinney will decide Bethany McKee’s fate Aug. 29 By Pat Schager For the enterprise

news@enterprisepublications.com @PlainfieldNews

Closing arguments in the trial of Bethany McKee, one of the defendants in the Hickory Street Murders, were presented Tuesday. McKee was the first of four friends to be tried for the robbery and murders of Eric Glover and Terrence Rankins.Separate trials for suspects Joshua Miner and Adam Landerman have yet to be set. The fourth member, Alisa Massaro, will not go to trial. In accepting a plea deal, she pleaded guilty in May and agreed to testify against the other suspects in their trials. She was sentenced for two counts of robbery and two counts of concealing a homicide and was sentenced to 10 years in prison. Assistant Will County Assistant State’s Attorney Dan Walsh’s opening statement set out a list of reasons for finding McKee guilty in the robbery and murders of Glover and Rankins. “She is accountable for the robbery, and she is guilty of

first degree murder in their deaths,” he said. He argued that it was her“lust for money,” and Rankins was picked because he had money, and they needed cash for cigarettes and alcohol. “She knew they (the four friends) were going to rob them,” Walsh said. He further argued that she didn’t go to the police or use her cell phone to call the police with this information. He said she asked her father for help on how to get rid of the bodies of Glover and Rankins. Walsh argued that McKee said yes when her father asked if she was involved. Walsh argued that she is accountable and actions speak louder than words. “That makes her guilty,” he said.Defense Attorney Chuck Bretz asked for a not guilty verdict on the firstdegree murder charge because “Bethany didn’t need money.” He argued that without intent before or after a crime, no guilt exists.“She was not present during the robbery or murders.” He

further said there is no forensic evidence to indicate she did anything. Bretz said McKee did not take Joshua seriously in any plans to rob Rankins. Bretz said that it was clear Bethany thought it was only trash talk and wasn’t aware that something was going to happen. “She makes some very bad decisions,” he said. Bretz concluded saying her decision-making was horrible, but she “did not take any role in robbery or subsequent murder. There is no proof she is guilty.” Assistant State’s Attorney John Connor said McKee indicated her guilt. He said to consider the statement of Bethany McKee where she said to Joliet Police detectives, “Here we go,” and “We can beat them up and kill them” and “get the money.” “That is flat out murder,” he said. He said “here we go” indicated McKee knew they were planning to kill them before they even called them to come to the Hickory Street apartment. “Did she warn (Glover and Rankins)? No.”

dave says

BUsiNess & reAl estAte

THE BUGLE/SENTINEL AUGUST 20, 2014

Dealing with the tricky topic of asking for raise Sit down with your leader, make a logical, argument for why you deserve more money

I don’t pay people for how long they’ve been in the building, and I don’t want anyone on my team who doesn’t give 100 percent.

By dave raMsey daVe saYs DaVeramseY.Com

for them and not you. If you honestly feel like you deserve a raise because of your Dear Dave, effort and performance, that’s What’s your advice fine. Sit down with on asking for a raise at your leader and work when you have make a logical and more responsibility reasonable argument than a co-worker but for why you deserve the same title on paper? more money. But After being with my don’t bring up your company four years, I co-worker and what feel like I should make he or she makes in more money and I have the discussion.That’s the right to complain DAVE sAys just not relevant. MONEY ADVICE about this. What is relevant is BY DAVE RAMSEY Vanessa your worth and the Dear Vanessa, value you bring to Sorry, no. You don’t have a the organization. right to complain. You agreed But a comparative analysis on your pay, and you are with someone else on staff just doing your job the way your isn’t a good idea. I’d stay away character and integrity tell you from that, Vanessa. to do the job. If someone else is —Dave a slacker in the same position, Paying the insurance that doesn’t mean a whole penalty lot in terms of your personal compensation. Dear Dave, I’ve got several people at My wife and I live in New my company who hold similar York, and we’ve had whole positions and make similar life insurance for several years. money. Some of them have There’s a seven percent penalty been here for years, while if we cash out the policies now. others are relatively new. I If we wait a few years, we won’t don’t pay people for how long have to pay into the premiums they’ve been in the building, anymore. Should we cash out and I don’t want anyone on the policies anyway? Brian my team who doesn’t give 100 percent. Now, that may be Dear Brian, The reason you won’t have a different issue than pay, but at the same time I don’t want to pay into the premiums someone who gives 50 percent anymore is because you built and I pay them 50 percent. I up enough savings, and they are want everyone at 100 percent, not paying you enough on the but that kind of thing isn’t your savings to amount to anything. problem. It’s the company’s The amount they should have problem, because she works been paying you versus the

way they were ripping you off will buy the life insurance. It’s not like you can pay for it because you still have probability of death. As long as there’s a probability of death there’s a cost to life insurance. The only question is whether you’re paying out of your savings account or your checking account. In this case, you’re paying out of savings. The seven percent figure is just your surrender charge, so I’d get out of that policy soon. Here’s the problem, Brian. If you die today, do you know what they’ll pay? Face value. They won’t pay face value plus the savings you paid for. In other words, you’ll lose your savings. I’d get term life insurance in place by the end of the week. Compare prices on term, because you’ll be surprised at the difference some companies charge for term insurance. Make sure you get good 15- to 20-year level terms policies valued at 10 to 12 times your annual incomes. —Dave

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

19

20

THE BUGLE/SENTINEL AUGUST 20, 2014

THE BUGLE/SENTINEL AUGUST 20, 2014

21

22

THE BUGLE/SENTINEL AUGUST 20, 2014

seNIORs HealtH

THE BUGLE/SENTINEL AUGUST 20, 2014

23

Regular exercise may stem aging effects Research supports the notion that many of the physiological changes related to aging can be prevented or postponed with regular exercise (StatePoint) One out of every three adults over 65 years old falls each year, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. And for older adults with dementia, the risk of falling is three times higher than those with no cognitive impairment, according to the AARP Bulletin. However, research supports the notion that many of the physiological changes related to

aging -- such as loss of balance -can be prevented or postponed with regular exercise. With this in mind, it’s no surprise that many senior living communities are making comprehensive health and wellness programs available to their residents. “We’re seeing residents increase their mobility, endurance and balance, and improve their range of motion and fitness levels,” says Katie

Westberg, national director of Life Enrichment at The Goodman Group, a company that has developed a new fitness program for its senior living and health care communities. Additionally, Westberg cites that participants feel better and are having fun, showing quick results to their overall wellbeing, “Many of the residents involved in our FIT Functional Fitness program start seeing long-lasting and significant strength training benefits within an eight to 16 week period.” The experts behind the FIT Functional Fitness program,

>> solDier, from page 1

notice when the temperature in Kandahar, Afghanistan was 104 degrees after a streak of 110 degree days. Benak’s wife of 15 years, Amy, said she was glad to finally have him back home. “I’m amazed by his duty and the sacrifice he makes and how dedicated he is,” she said. “It was kind of scary for us, but I think it made (his children) appreciate the things what we have and to see what he’s doing for our country.You see their pride.” Amy said they are looking forward to relaxing together, camping and fishing and boating. “He was excellent in the field and a consummate soldier,” retired Army Captain Michelle Bornnick said of Benak Saturday. “His examples of leadership and integrity. . . challenged me to be

one of the best officers I could be.” Benak signed up for the Air Force in 1983 while he was still a senior in high school and was already in basic training less than three months after graduation. He scored high in electronics aptitude and served in Germany and Alabama, working on electronic systems. He transferred to the Army after learning about a warrant officer program in that branch of the service. A warrant officer, he explained, specialized in a particular field then was able to stay in that area throughout their military career. He became an electronics warrant officer, running repair and maintenance shops for the commanders. He would have anywhere from 8 to 15 soldiers under him. He specialized in psyops,

“It’s great to have him home,” his brother Wes said. “We don’t have to be worried about him anymore. His service is so inspirational. He was in for a long time. 31 years. That’s a long time to serve others.” Benak’s neighbor Dan Reimer said he’s known him since around 2000. “It’s a wonderful thing,” he said of Benak’s service and retirement. “He’s done more than his share.” Reimer said when his neighbor was deployed overseas, he would always breathe a sigh of relief when he got on the internet game, “Words with Friends,” and saw that Benak had logged on that day. He was glad to see his friend was keeping his sense of humor even while in a combat zone. He would report a cool weather

a new, national, personalized functional fitness program developed by The Goodman Group in partnership with a physical therapist and board certified geriatric specialist, are offering some tips for older adults looking to improve their well-being and restore their vigor. Engage in exercises that can improve your core strength, balance and cardiovascular health. If you live in a senior living community, inquire about on-site programs. Additionally, many community centers and health clubs conduct exercise

classes designed specifically for senior health. Invest in a stationary bike. It’s easy to incorporate this activity into your day while watching TV, listening to music or talking to your family, and pedaling lowers blood pressure, according to AARP. Consult your physician before getting started. Your exercise routine should take into account your current health level and functionality as well as your physical needs. Food and health are directly correlated, so pair your exercise with healthy eating.

overseeing equipment function in the psychological operations, or military information support operations, field. His service in Bosnia during Operation Joint Endeavor was not in an active combat zone, but there were significant hazards, he said.When he returned home from that difficult deployment,his daughter was seven, and Benak decided it was time to leave active service. However, in 2003, he received a call from an army major who asked Benak if he would help him with a psyop unit based in Joliet. Benak couldn’t turn it down. He had been missing the military. He had loved serving. In subsequent years, he was deployed to Iraq then Afghanistan, where he flew and rode to and from several area mission sites in combat zones. “Travel over there was very dangerous,” he said, “but I was

eager to go do what I’d been trained to do and to put all those skills to use.” Benak was injured during his service and finally decided to retire when he knew he wouldn’t be able to physically train in the same way as his soldiers. He said he has no regrets about the choices he made over the years. “It made me the person I am today,” he said. “It gave me discipline, it gave me vision. It’s not for everybody, but it was a great way of life for me.” Benak added he couldn’t have done it without the support he received from home. Retired Captain Bornnick ended her speech Saturday with a message to Benak. “Chief, I can honestly say the army suffered a great loss today. . . Job well done, mission accomplished.”

24

THE BUGLE AUGUST 20, 2014