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“PRSRT.STD.” US POSTAGE PAID NO. 486 PRINCETON, IL 61356 SHAW MEDIA
Thursday, November 3, 2016
Vol. 11 No. 15
Daylight Saving Time ends on Sunday It’s almost that time ... time to change the time. At 2 a.m. Sunday, Nov. 6, most Americans will “fall back,” and they’ll turn back their clocks one hour — marking the end of Daylight Saving Time for 2016. Daylight Saving Time began this year at 2 a.m. Sunday, March 13, where clocks were set one hour ahead. Daylight Saving Time was the brainchild of Benjamin Franklin in 1784. The Standard Time Act was established in March 1918, which created time zones and daylight saving. It was repealed in 1919. From 1945 to 1966, there was no federal law regarding Daylight Saving Time. In 1966, the Uniform Trade Act established the uniform Daylight Saving Time through the United States. States were able to exempt themselves from participating. In 1974-75, Congress extended Daylight Saving Time to help conserve energy during the energy crisis. From 1986 to 2006, Daylight Saving Time began on the first Sunday in April and ended the last Sunday in October. In 2005, however, President George W. Bush signed the Energy Policy Act of 2005 into law, which officially extended Daylight Saving Time from the second Sunday in March to the first Sunday in November. IVS file photo
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2 • Thursday, November 3, 2016
Illinois Valley Scene
Remember when ... Buda native honors life’s final chapter with handcrafted, American-made barn wood caskets By BCR Staff news@bcrnews.com
BUDA — Ron Skaggs had close friends, as well as two brothers, who passed away far too early in life. During the funerals of his companions, he said he felt like something was lacking, so he took it upon himself to give families a personal heirloom they could truly appreciate. Skaggs woke one night with an idea he couldn’t ignore, and he went out into his workshop and took his first attempt at bringing this fresh idea to life. He wanted to build caskets like no one before him had. “I was always into building things, including our house,” Skaggs said, adding a lack of money has a way of making you learn how to do things on your own. “I had built things out of barn wood previous to the caskets, but they weren’t real challenging or rewarding. I wanted to make something people would enjoy — a little closer to their heart.” Skaggs got to it, and Coal Creek Creations was born. Skaggs has a calm wisdom about him and knew he needed to offer something a little different to be noticed, so he integrated a gambrel roof design into his caskets ... but he certainly didn’t stop there. Nothing is pre-cut, so Skaggs begins by selecting barn wood or western cedar boards that will match and look nice together. He puts two antique brass locks on the caskets with brass skeleton keys for family members to keep as a memento. He uses a Computer Numeric Control machine to carve out images on wooden plaques — picking corn, combining beans, fishing or deer and duck hunting scenes — and hangs it on the open lid before offer-
ing it like an American flag is given to the spouse of a military member. He places hooks on the interior of the open lid to hang an old farmer cap or a lady’s apron, and he also puts two adjustable hooks on the front of the casket … used to display a cherished firearm, a favorite fishing pole, or something of sentimental value. Iron handles handmade by a respected local blacksmith add a perfect touch to the authentic beauty of the caskets. His wife, Brenda, designs the interior cloth and pillows that go inside the casket with love. “I’m not about mass production just to make money. The funeral home directors said no one in 30 years ever stopped and complimented the casket until I came along, so that hits the nail on the head of what I’m trying to accomplish,” Skaggs said, noting he relies on word of mouth for advertisement. The caskets take about 50 hours each to assemble, which makes production more challenging because they are built one at a time. Yet the barn wood casket copycats that spring up seem to worship the assembly line, and their products look that way. While driving a truck through his younger years — rolling down 4,200,000 miles of accident-free roadway — Skaggs felt like he was always in a hurry. The last five years his body and his perspective have asked him to slow down. His sons, Riley and Ryan, help Skaggs offer the best aspects of a family business … an environment of love, and a mindset of productivity. “My dad was a very handy man, and I was able to take all he taught me and pass it on to my children,” Skaggs said, noting Brenda came up with the phrase, “Thank God for the life I was given” that is carved into
Above, Buda native Ron Skaggs custom builds caskets that help to personalize the person’s life being laid to rest. His wife, Brenda, crafts all the interior fabrics. At right, Skaggs uses rustic materials on the caskets he builds, allowing families to personalize each piece to represent the type of life their loved one lived. In the smaller photo below,Skaggs uses his woodworking talents to customize a loved one’s final resting place. IVS photos
the plaques around the scene if the family so desires. Another phrase — “Remember When” — is a trademark of Coal Creek Creations, which is carved into the lower center of every casket if desired. A somber scene is suddenly broken with light when someone says … remember when he fell into the pond, or backed his car into the tree … and the morbid tension in the funeral parlor melts away, leaving only a celebration of life. When his brothers died, the flowers soon wilted and the family split the bill; but Skaggs had nothing tangible to
hold on to, simply the affection for family members he will never forget. The barn wood caskets are Skaggs’ way of giving families something more … while accepting nothing less. “One day is all you have to show people what this person did with his or her life, so that’s what we’re trying to help these folks do,” he concluded. “It’s a perfect way to send them home.”
Stage 212 announces 2017 season LASALLE — Stage 212 2017 season tickets are now on sale. The LaSalle theater group says “Wilkommen” to winter with the Tony Award-winning musical “Cabaret,” by Christopher Isherwood, John Kander and Fred Ebb, directed by Phil Grant. Spring focuses on the testimony of “The Hallelujah Girls,” the rollicking Southern comedy by Jessie Jones, Nicholas Hope and Jamie Wooten, directed by Zoe Peshel. Summer dances in with “A Chorus Line,” the Tony Award- and Pulitzer Prize-winning musical by Marvin
Hamlisch, Edward Kleban, James Kirkwood, Jr. and Nicholas Dante, directed by Neal Phelps. Fall has plenty of room for laughs with “6 Rms Riv Vu,” Bob Randall’s classic romantic comedy, directed by Ken Schroeder. Season tickets are $55, a nearly 20 percent savings over buying individual tickets. Season ticket holders are able to reserve individual seats before tickets go on sale to the general public. Angels start at $150. For their extra donation an Angel receives two season subscriptions, has top priority when ordering tickets for
any of the season’s shows and is acknowledged in each show program as a supporter of Stage 212. Tickets may be purchased by calling the Stage 212 box office at 815-224-3025, by emailing stage212@att.net or by visiting Stage 212 online at www.stage212.org. Stage 212 is the Starved Rock area’s community theater and has presented nearly 200 productions since 1968. Persons with an interest in theatre, with or without previous experience, are encouraged to become involved in its projects. Volunteers are always welcome for stage, set and house crews.
Follow your hometown newspaper online at www.bcrnews.com.
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Thursday, November 3, 2016 • 3
Illinois Valley Scene
The keys of expression First Presbyterian’s Piano and Organ Festival will showcase talent of young organist By Dave Cook dcook@bcrnews.com
PRINCETON — Sheffield’s Dylan Benavidez, 14, is a freshman at Bureau Valley High School, and he’s been studying music since the fifth grade. He plays the oboe, saxophone, piano, and for the past year and one-half he’s been playing the organ. He’s also the new organist for Princeton’s First Presbyterian Church. When the church found themselves in need of an organist, they were approached by Benavidez. Having previously had a positive experience with a young organist, the worship committee decided to give him a chance — they weren’t disappointed. “I like that there’s so many facets and an unlimited array of options to give expression; every piece is what you want it to be,” Benavidez said regarding why he enjoys placing his fingers on the organ keys and delivering the songs for the congregation. He said it’s a dying art, and he gets “an overwhelming sense of accomplishment in being able to lead people in worship,” while making use of his talents. His goal is to earn a doctorate in music and hopes to attend a school where he said “the focus isn’t to be the absolute best, but rather where my talents can be expressed freely.” Benavidez thanked Kendra Ross, the organist from Tiskilwa Bible Church, for providing him guidance, saying “She gave me the confidence and courage to pursue my dreams of playing the organ.” He’ll be joined at the first Piano and Organ Festival hosted at the First Presbyterian Church on Saturday, Nov. 5, by musicians from the following churches: Bureau Township, First Lutheran, Evangelical Covenant, First Presbyterian, Hampshire Colony United, St. Matthews Lutheran and Methodist of LeRoy, Illinois. The First Presbyterian Church is located at 320 Park Avenue East in Princeton. Admission to the festival is free and open to the public. It will begin at 4 p.m., and following the performances, light refreshments will be served in the fellowship hall. For more information call Pam Cochran at 815-9150400.
Sheffield’s Dylan Benavidez, 14, is the newest organist for Princeton’s First Presbyterian Church and will be featured during the church’s Piano and Organ Festival on Saturday, Nov. 5. The event is free and open to the public and will also include musicians from seven other area churches. Check out www.bcrnews. com for a video of his musical talent on the organ. IVS photos/Dave Cook
All in the family ...
Optimist Friend of Youth winners are brother and sister By Goldie Rapp grapp@bcrnews.com
PRINCETON — Last year, the Princeton Optimist Club began recognizing local volunteers who have served as exceptional role models to the area’s youth. They called the honor the Friend of Youth Award and planned to choose a new recipient each year who has devoted time and energy to guiding young children and teens. The honoree would be recognized during the annual Pumpkin Races. The club’s first recipient was Rob Jensen, an officer at Princeton Police Department. Princeton Optimist Club President Kenny Lampley said Jensen was chosen because of his dedication to various sports teams ranging from youth to high school; also for his work with the D.A.R.E. program throughout the years and willingness to teach youngsters about
the importance of safety during Princeton Junior Women’s Club’s annual Safety Town event. Lampley said Jensen is really a positive role model to all members of the community. “You go around talking to the kids, and every kid is like ‘Oh yeah, we know Officer Jensen,’” he said. This year, when the Optimist Club sat down to choose its second recipient, their discussions kept coming back to Jeff and Dana Van Autreve, owners of Second Story. Lampley said the two have poured their hearts out for local kids who flock to the teen center each week. Second Story offers teens, from grades 6 through 12, a safe place to go to hang out, meet friends, talk with other teens and just be a kid. Aside from the volunteer work both Jensen and the Van Autreves do, the neat thing about this story is that Rob and Dana are brother
and sister. Unbeknownst to the Princeton Optimist Club, of all the community members who dedicate time and effort to area youth, the club members happened to recognize two winners from the same family. “That’s really cool. It speaks volumes for that family,” Lampley said. “They have based their lives around IVS photo/Goldie Rapp volunteering and helping the community. Words can’t Dana Van Autreve is presented the 2016 Friend of Youth Award by Princeton Optimist explain how much they’ve Club President Kenny Lampley. done for our youth.” Van Autreve said it was almost more exciting knowing she was getting the honor next to her brother, rather than receiving the award itself. “All I could think of is how thankful I am for my parents to be able to see both JUMP-START THE ECONOMY of their kids, and what we try to do for the community,” she said. “It’s a trickRESTORE FISCAL ACCOUNTABILITY le-down effect for what we were taught from when we REVITALIZE MANUFACTURING grew up.” FOR AMERICA & ILLINOIS
In 2015, Princeton Police officer Rob Jensen (left) received the Princeton Optimist Club’s Friend of Youth Award. Twelve months later, Jensen’s sister won the same award. Both recipients say their parents set a good example.
STRENGTHEN OUR NATIONAL SECURITY W W W . E L E C T A D A M . C O M
Paid for by ACTIVATOR Authorized by Kinzinger for Congress
IVS file photo
SM-PR8128562-1103
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4 • Thursday, November 3, 2016
Illinois Valley Scene
This and that
Photo contributed
Fun fair funds donated IVS photo/Goldie Rapp
Missy Jesse (from left), Lou Brown, Susan Lucas and Donna Braida hold up just a few of the Christmas items that will be for sale during Perry Memorial Hospital Auxiliary’s annual Candy Cane event this week.
Heartland Bank Fun Fair volunteers Karen Hanson (from left), Sara Hudson, Carolyn Taylor and Val Johnson present Lauren Widmer, director at Zearing Child Enrichment Center, a check for $1,000 raised at the bank’s annual fun fair held as part of the Homestead Festival celebration. They are joined by children and staff members Nicole Sampson and Lisa Vincent at the Zearing Child Enrichment Center.
PMH Auxiliary to host annual Candy Cane event PRINCETON — The Perry Memorial Hospital Auxiliary will sponsor its annual Candy Cane event in the north lobby of the hospital from 4 to 7 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 3, and from 7 a.m. to 4 p.m. and in the north and south lobbies of the hospital on Friday, Nov. 4. Thursday evening will be for shopping only, and on Friday, there will be complimentary refreshments and a cookie sale in the north lobby.
The event will include gifts, pecans, black walnuts, cookbooks, Mary Kay products, advent calendars and much more in the north lobby. Employees’ handmade items and the gift shop will be in the south lobby. The hospital cafeteria will also be serving a special lunch for $5.50 on Friday from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Funds raised from the Candy Cane event will be used to purchase equipment for the hospital.
College Recruitment Day for Agriculture is Nov. 16 HENRY — There are approximately 22 million people who work in agriculture-related fields. Unlike agriculture of our grandparents’ day, today’s agriculture offers more than 200 rewarding and challenging careers. The Marshall-Putnam Farm Bureau, in cooperation with Stark County Farm Bureau and Bureau County Farm Bureau, will host a College Recruitment Day for Agriculture on Wednesday, Nov. 16, at Birkey’s Farm Store in Henry. This college open house is a great opportunity for high school students to visit with representatives of the agriculture departments from a variety of colleges all in one day. The following colleges will have repre-
sentatives at the open house: Black Hawk College, Illinois Central College, Illinois State University, Illinois Valley Community College, Joliet Junior College, Lake Land College, Parkland College, Southern Illinois University, University of Illinois and Western Illinois University. High school students from Bureau, Marshall, Putnam and Stark counties who are interested in pursuing a career in an agricultural field are invited to attend. Students interested in attending the open house should contact their guidance counselor or their local Farm Bureau office in Bureau, 815-875-6486, Marshall-Putnam, 309-364-2501, or Stark, 309-286-7481 counties. Parents are welcome to attend.
Photo contributed
Wyanet Historical Society receives donation Dr. Ron Richmond donated his Wyanet Grade School 1959-1960 seventh/eighth grade boys basketball/cheerleaders picture to the Wyanet Historical Society. Accepting his donation was Bob Oloffson, president of the society. Dr. Richmond was a seventh grader on this team coached by Robert Kohlenberger.
JERRY
LONG For STATE REP.
IVS photo/Dave Cook
Spooky Spring Valley JFK Elementary students and staff joined in a long and winding parade through school grounds and the surrounding neighborhood on Halloween morning. From scary to sweet, the children enjoyed their costumes as family and friends lined the route taking pictures and greeting the wide variety of characters represented in the parade.
DEFEAT THE MADIGANMACHINE Paid for by Elect Je Jerry Long
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Thursday, November 3, 2016 • 5
Illinois Valley Scene
BBB: Let falling leaves signal a rise in seasonal scams PRINCETON — Thursday, Nov. 3, 10 a.m. to 8 p.m., Friends of the Library book sale. Thursday, Nov. 3, 10:45 a.m., PHS Book Club, Tigers Reads, book selection. Thursday, Nov. 3, 2 p.m., Health Happens: Perry Memorial Hospital will talk about strokes. Thursday, Nov. 3, 6:30 p.m., Health Happens: Managing the stress of the family caregiver with Home Instead Senior Care. Friday, Nov. 4, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., Friends of the Library Book Sale. Friday, Nov. 4, 4 p.m., Health Happens: Vitas Hospice program. Saturday, Nov. 5, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., Friends of the Library Book Sale —Bag Day. Monday, Nov. 7, 6:30 p.m., Monday Movie: A spoiled heiress running away from her family is helped by a man who is actually a reporter in need of a story. Tuesday, Nov. 8, 10:30 a.m., Youth Services Story time and Craft: Harvest/Indian corn. Wednesday, Nov. 9, 6:30 p.m., Widmark Wednesday: A body is found on the docks of New Orleans. Thursday, Nov. 10, 4 p.m. Friends of the Library Book Club will meet. SPRING VALLEY — Saturday, Nov. 5, 10 a.m., the children’s department will have a movie day featuring, Garfield Holiday Celebrations. Saturday, Nov. 12, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., the children’s department will have crafts during the Christmas in the Valley event. The library is selling gift cards again this year. There will be two orders this year before Christmas. The first order will be due by noon on Wednesday, Nov. 9, with delivery by Wednesday, Nov. 23, which will be before Thanksgiving. The second order will be due by noon on Friday, Dec. 9, with delivery by Wednesday, Dec. 21. Order forms may be picked-up at the library during regular hours. The gift cards must be paid for at the time when the order is placed by the individual. The children’s library has story time on Tuesdays at 5:30 p.m. There will be stories, crafts and refreshments. October themes for crafts include pumpkin seeds tree picture, candy corn paper people and a hanging bat. LAMOILLE — Therapy Thursdays is an ongoing program. Come and go between 1 and 4 p.m. Materials will be furnished or people may bring their own. The library will be participating in the Rebecca Caudill Book Choice Award for 2017. This program is open to children in fourth through eighth grades. The Rebecca Caudill group will meet at the library for fun talks, games and snacks, ending with a pizza party and voting in February 2017. The library is also taking part in choosing the Abraham Lincoln High School Book Award. The program will be conducted in the same manner as the Rebecca Caudill program. If interested in joining either of
ROCKFORD — It’s fall, and many homeowners will begin preparing their homes for cooler weather by hiring specialists to clean and make repairs. But, the Better Business Bureau warns to stay alert; scammers see this time as an opportunity to rip-off homeowners, and in some cases, steal thousands of dollars for unnecessary work. “These scammers are specific as to who they are looking for,” says Dennis Horton, director of the Rockford Regional Office of the Better Business Bureau. “They often target middle-class homeowners, and in particular senior citizens. They often look professional — sometimes wearing safety vests, are polite, all to fool the homeowner into thinking that they are trustworthy. “They are deliberate in the way they carry them out,” notes Horton. “Typically, the scammer provides a verbal estimate to do the work for a very low price, but they later charge a much higher price, and the quality of the work is often shoddy.” When the con artists get to the door they often
these groups, contact the library for a list of the nominated books. DEPUE — On the second Tuesday of every month, the library hosts blood pressure and blood sugar screenings for free. The screenings are administered by St. Margaret’s Health. The library board meetings are held on Mondays, except where noted, at 6 p.m. at the library. Meeting dates are: Nov. 14, December – no meeting, Jan. 9, 2017; Feb. 13, 2017; March 13, 2017; April 10, 2017; May 8, 2017; and June 12, 2017. All board meetings are open to the public. TISKILWA — On the first Wednesday of each month at 4:30 p.m., the library’s book club for adults meets. Every Thursday at 10:45 a.m., the library hosts a senior fitness class. Participants focus on balance, endurance, muscular strength, mental clarity and socialization. There is no cost to attend. Every Tuesday at 5:30 p.m., the library hosts a yoga class, where participants enjoy camaraderie with others and are challenged mentally and physically. Cost is $5. BUREAU — The Leepertown Township Public Library is open from 2 to 6 p.m. Monday, Wednesday and Friday; from 5 to 7 p.m. Thursday; and from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday. The library has computers for patron usage, as well as copier, scanning and fax services. Call 815-659-3283 for information. (The fax number is the same as the phone number). LADD — The library sponsors an adult coloring club on Saturdays from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. and Wednesdays from 5 to 7 p.m. Adult card club is on Fridays from 1 to 3 p.m. PERU — Eight area libraries including LaSalle, Peru, Richard A. Mautino in Spring Valley, Putnam County, Jacobs Library at IVCC, Graves-Hume in Mendota, Princeton and Oglesby are sponsoring the seventh annual Food for Fines amnesty program benefiting area food pantries. From Nov. 7-19, these libraries will accept canned or boxed non-perishable food donations for payment of overdue fines. Each donated food item pays $1 in library overdue fines. The libraries will take up to 25 items to pay $25 per overdue library/patron card. Food items must be presented at the circulation desks. All donated food will be given to area food pantries. Don’t have any overdue fines? Feel free to bring donations to a participating library. They will take it to area food pantries. Donated food is not accepted for lost or damaged books, replacement of cards or interlibrary loan fees. Because of food safety concerns, the pantries request items be in their original packaging— damaged packages, outdated food or glass containers are not acceptable. Suggested food items include canned fruits and vegetables, soups, cereals, pasta mixes and canned meats. For more information, please call a sponsoring library.
offer these kind of jobs: Chimney/roof repairs - Scammers disguised as chimney sweeps will tell you your chimney needs to be inspected, and then use hard sales tactics to get you to make expensive, unfounded repairs. Don’t fall for it. Gutter cleaning Fraudulent gutter cleaners tend to prey on the elderly or those who cannot clean their gutters easily. They will claim they have worked in the neighborhood before, and quote you a very low estimate in return for shoddy, incomplete work. Energy audits - Door to door furnace repairs - Many scammers offer a “free” energy audit to reduce heating costs, claiming to be a representative from your local utility company. They insist on costly upgrades for your attic, such as solar blankets or insulation, and may or may not burglarize your home while conducting the audit. Ductwork cleaning - Ductwork cleaning is rarely a necessity, so take caution. Scammers are known to damage your heating system while cleaning it
in order to leech more money out of you for repairs. They also may create indoor air hazards. What are the clues you are dealing with a scammer? They come to your door unexpectedly. Never let anyone you have not called inside. Without much inspection, quickly point out the problem they say needs repair. They say they have leftover materials from a project they just finished nearby. Offer unbelievably low prices. Accept cash or check only. Promise an unconditional guarantee on the work. Start work immediately Report all scams to the police and to the BBB Scam Tracker to help stop scammers. Before having work done by someone you don’t know, research the individual or company. There are also tips available on the BBB website that can guide you in making your decision. To find trustworthy businesses at no cost and for more important consumer information, visit ask.bbb.org,
1221 North Main Street, Princeton, IL
815-875-1221
www.illinoisvalleyhomeshow.com
“Libraries will get you through times of no money better than money will get you through times of no libraries.”
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Anne Herbert
Auction Calendar antiques, and collectibles, 9:30 a.m., “The Shed,” 401 W. Main St., Wyanet, Rediger Auction Service, auctioneers. Nov. 25 — Eugene VanWassenhove estate, farm land, 10 a.m., American Legion Post 31, 1509 Railroad Ave., Kewanee, Rediger Auction Service, auctioneers. Dec. 3 — Donald R. Springer estate, farm land and recreational land, 10 a.m., Wise Guys banquet room, 2205 N. Main St., Princeton, Dahl Real Estate, auctioneers.
Investment Opportunity!$52,500 - Princeton! 2 Unit 5 Unit Apartment Building For Sale! $215,000 - Each apartment building. Currently 2 - two BR units. Up unit with covered parking, some w/ newer kitchen. $425.00 - down $475.00. Call for info.#09234803 Lots of updated flooring. #08803429
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Nov. 11 and 12 — Simpkins estate, furniture Coca-Cola collectibles, primitives, radios, coins, antiques, glassware, artwork, ladies items, kitchen appliances and household items, 10 a.m., 1635 N. Main St., Princeton, Tumbleson Auction Co., auctioneers. Nov. 16 — Barb Stamerjohn, furniture and electronics, antiques, collectibles and household, 10 a.m., 631 Eastmor Drive, Princeton, Tumbleson Auction Co., auctioneers. Nov. 19 — Harold Steele, primitives,
12:30 PM - 1:30 PM
2 PM - 3 PM
1019 S. 5TH - PRINCETON 303 N. HOMER - PRINCETON 2 PM - 3 PM 810 BRUCE LANE - PRINCETON
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Editor’s Note: Sports Editor Kevin Hieronymus of the Bureau County Republican blogged from the press box for Games 3 and 4 of the 2016 World Series live from Wrigley Field.
Illinois Valley Scene
Live from the World Series Oct. 28, 2016 • Wrigley Field, Chicago
By Kevin Hieronymus khieronymus@bcrnews.com
CHICAGO — In all the years I’ve blogged live from the World Series, I have never gone live from Wrigley Field. Yes, the same Wrigley Field where the ivy turns brown in October and no one is around to notice. I’ve reported from Minneapolis in 1987, Philadelphia in 2009 covering Illinois Valley natives J.A. Happ and Chad Durbin with the Phillies, and from St. Louis in 1985, 2004, 2006, 2011 and 2013. The Fall Classic has returned to the North Side for the first time in 71 years. Not since 1945 has the World Series been played out at beautiful Wrigley Field. And the Cubs fans and city of Chicago can’t wait. The buzz in the crowd for Game 3 was beginning to erupt when we were still a half hour to first pitch. We didn’t have the planes, but we had the trains and automobile to get there. On Lake Shore Drive, we passed a construction crew erecting a Go Cubs Go sign. Then we passed a car with an Indians flag hanging out and of course it proved to be an envious White Sox fan from the South Side. We parked in downtown and caught the Red Line with hundreds of our closest friends, all nearly decked in blue. I would say the crowd outside Wrigley Field was larger than that around the ball park underneath the Arch in St. Louis during a typical World Series day. Cubs fans don’t know how to react. This is new and certainly exciting. A fan of any team, the White Sox, the Yankees, the Cardinals — yes, even the Cardinals — can appreciate this moment of the upcoming first pitch. I know John Mason, the biggest Cubs fan in Hinckley, is here again. He is the new assistant boys’ coach at LaMoille. No one gets more excited about the Cubbies than Coach. The Cubbies took the field to Arrowsmith’s tune Sweet Emotion. It is a sweet emotion that legions of Cubs fans never thought they’d experience in their lifetime. Ever. I think of our dearly departed Cubs fans from home like Ezby Collins, Danny Gelsomino and Larry Wilcoxen, just to name a few. I know Cubs fans everywhere want to
IVS photo/Kevin Hieronymus
The pregame pageantry is on display before the start of Game 3 of the 2016 World Series at Wrigley Field. It is the first World Series game held on the North Side in 71 years when the Cubs played the Tigers. win the Series for their lost loved ones. Larry told me just last summer he doubted he’d live long enough to see the Cubs in the World Series. Sadly, he was right. This is a once-in-a-lifetime experience for sure this evening. I walked up the ramp behind what must have been a father and son holding hands. The father was likely in his 70s, walking with a limp and using his son’s hand for support to make the long walk. The son, in his mid-30s, gladly walked slowly with his father, full of patience with the slow pace. I can imagine they played games of catch in their backyard, talking about going to see the Cubbies in the World Series one day. Their “Next Year” is this year. • The Tribe knocked out Kyle Hendricks in the fifth inning. Hendricks’, aka the Professor, 85th and final pitch hit Kipnis to load the bases with one out. Justin Grimm, the friend of Luke and Emily Smith of Princeton, went in to pitch for the Cubbies. He got out of trouble with the pitcher’s best friend, the ol’ 4-6-3 double play. The Cubbies are taking a page out of their famous 1908 brethren Tinkers to Evers to Chance with their modern day infield of Bryant, Russell, Baez and Rizzo. • The Indians broke through with a pinch hit by Coco Crisp to go up 1-0 in the top of the seventh. I love that name. Trade off
for the Cubbies is they got Andrew Miller out of the game. • The Cubs P.R. staff just passed out in-game notes, with a list of “Faces in the Crowd,” including actors Bill Murray, Jim Belushi, Taylor Kinney, Bonnie Hunt, Jesse Spencer, comedian Tom Dressen, Chicago pros Doug McDermott, Dwyane Wade, Jay Cutler and Chris Chelios, and Cubs greats Ryne Sandberg, Billy Williams, Bobby Doenier and Randy Hundley. Bill Murray sang “Take Me Out to the Ball Game” in the seventh inning stretch. And now he just walked past our section with his entourage of Cubs staff leading interference, Murray says he’s not afraid of no goats. • The night does not end as scripted as Indians closer Cody Allen blew a fastball by Javier Baez, sending the crowd of 41,000 home awaiting for another day.
Game 4
I’m back at the old ball yard for Game 4 of the World Series between the Cubs and Indians. Juliana Zobrist, wife of Cubs star Ben Zobrist of Eureka, sang God Bless America. She’s a nationally renowned Christian artist. Cubs greats Greg Maddux and Fergie Jenkins threw out the first pitch. Ex-Cub Mark Prior also took part in the pre-game festivities. John Lackey threw out the first pitch. He’s said this year he’s not here to
get a hair cut. We’ll see if he’s here at this game to keep the Cubbies in the series, with them down 2-1, as he takes the mound. Game time temp is 69 degrees. The wind was blowing in as I glanced at the No. 14 Ernie Banks. No. 31 Fergie and No. 10 Santo flags draped atop the left field foul pole. That was a complete opposite from the night before when it was blowing out strongly. And yet Josh Tomlin and the Indians staff silenced the Cubs bats. Those bats have warmed up as the Cubbies have broken through with one run in the bottom of the first. Cubs fans are already trying to get into the head
of Indians ace Corey Kluber with chants of “Kluuuuuuber, Kluuuuuu-ber” ringing throughout the park. End of 1: Cubs 1, Indians 0. The Indians put 2 on the board in the second and 1 in the third. Lackey may not last long. Indians 3, Cubs 1. • I texted Happ this week for his take on the World Series coming to Chicago. He pitches for the Toronto Blue Jays now, but he was a Chicago Cubs fan growing up in Peru. He knows what it means to the city of Chicago to see the Cubs reaching the World Series for the first time in 71 years. “I have such a different
perspective now as a player. Yet, I know how much it means to the city of Chicago and so many Cubs fans, especially from our area, so I can appreciate that. It’s an exciting time, no doubt,” he said. The Blue Jays made the playoffs as a wild card in the American League, sweeping the Rangers in the NLDS only to fall to the Indians in the ALCS. Happ was hoping to make it to the World Series and play the Cubs. “That certainly would have been a surreal experience playing in the World Series at Wrigley Field after being such a fan growing
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Thursday, November 3, 2016 • 7
Illinois Valley Scene
Senior Spotlight Lexie Behrens • Bureau Valley Date/place of birth: June 5, 1999 in Ottawa. Hometown: Wyanet. Family: Mom, Jeanine Zemke; Step dad; Chris Zemke; Dad, Derek Behrens; and two sisters Taylor and Alivia Zemke. Sports: Volleyball/ Favorite sport and why: Volleyball; I love the intensity of it and it’s brought so many great things and friendships into my life. Favorite food and where to get it: Breakfast food from the Coffee Cup. Likes: Dogs, breakfast food, and Christmas. Dislikes: Conditioning and cold weather Person with the greatest Influence on my athletic career (and why): Probably my mom. She has taught me to push through everything and not to give up even when things are tough. Person with the greatest influence in my life (and why): My grandma. She is the most caring person in my life and has been there for me through everything. I could never thank her enough. Who would be your dream celebrity prom date: Kris Bryant. Name three historic figures you’d like to meet (and why): John and Jackie Kennedy, because JFK was probably my favorite president and Jackie Kennedy was all around a great person and also a style icon. Also Jonathan Toews even though he isn’t really a historical figure he’s always been my favorite hockey player If stranded on a deserted island, I would have my: Phone, so i could listen to my music. The last song I listened to: Too many years. People would be surprised to know: When I was younger I was extremely shy. I stay home to watch: Grey’s Anatomy When I need luck for a big game, I: Wear the same ribbon and headband every game The funniest person I’ve ever met (and why): Probably Cassidy Olds. She is absolutely crazy and says the weirdest things ever. What they’ll say about me at school after high school: “I wonder if she’s still as outgoing as she was in high school.” Most embarrassing moment: Tripping and falling while running in PE class a couple weeks ago. Most unforgettable moment: Being on a volleyball team with such great players and coaches this year and improving so much and growing so close to each other. Win or lose. I’ll always love my team. Ultimate sports fantasy: Going to state in volleyball this year. What I would like to do in life: Become a vet tech and start a family once all of my schooling is done.
Series From Page 6 up,” he said. Spoken like an old Cubs fan, he said, “Maybe next year.” • Here’s a heads-up. Vince Vaughn, a Cubs fan and actor (“Wedding Crashers,” “Dodgeball: A True Underdog Story,” and “Old School”), sang “Take Me Out to the Ball Game” in the 7th-inning stretch. • Cubs fans with World Series history are hard to come by since the last Fall Classic was 71 Octobers ago. The Cubs have a special guest tonight, retired Supreme Court Justice Paul Stevens, 96, who attended the 1929 World Series here. • Joe Maddon’s decision to start slumping right fielder Jason Heyward is paying off since he’s gone 2-2, ripping a sinking liner off the glove of Indians shortstop Francisco Lindor. Unfortunately, he’s had little company in the hit column with only Dexter Fowler and Anthony Rizzo solving Kluber so far. Lackey retired Tribe 1-2-3 in the top of 5. He was due up to lead off the Cubs’ half of fifth and I’m guessing he will be lifted for a pinch-hitter. He was. • MLB conducted its annual Stand up to Cancer moment. This should and has touched all of us. It hit home with me. Tonight, I stand up for my mom, Redbird Ruth, a 3X survivor, my dad, who we sadly lost 27 years ago and miss dearly, and my good friend Ken Musselman, who has just been diagnosed. The Indians have scored again. They lead 4-1 after 5 1/2. • Did you know?: Bureau County has a tie to the Cleveland Indians. Sheffield native Woodward “Red” Gunkel, who was born in Sheffield April 15, 1894, pitched in one inning for the Indians in 1916. He made his one and only appearance in the big leagues on June 18, 1916, throwing a scoreless inning against the New York Yankees. He struck out one. Gunkel later went into the military. He was a star on the University of Illinois
baseball teams which won three straight Big Ten championships. He toiled a no-hitter against Ohio State. • Faces in the crowd tonight include Billy Corgan (Smashing Pumpkins), actors and Chicago natives John Cusack, Bill Murray, Bonnie Hunt, Jordana Brewster, Gary Sinise and Chris O’Donnell, Eddie Vedder (Pearl Jam) and Chicago pros Jonathon Toews, Peanut Tillman, Alshon Jeffery, Eddie Royal, Andre “Hawk” Dawson, Gary “Sarge” Matthews, Ryne Sandberg and Sweet Swinging Billy Williams. • Jason Kipnis, who grew up a Cubs fan in Northbrook, just silenced Wrigley Field with one swing of the bat. His 3-run laser to right field made it 7-1 Tribe in top of 7th. The offending baseball is quickly returned to the field. Did I mention he went to the same high school and hometown (Northbrook/Glenbrook North) as infamous Cubs fan Steve Bartman? Kipnis says he wished Cubs fans would give Bartman a break and welcome him back to Wrigley Field with open arms. He remembers police cars parked outside Bartman’s house in the midst of death threats. Bartman was related to the Chuck Hanson family, which formerly lived in Princeton. • Dexter Fowler finally created a little excitement with a solo shot into the left field basket. Cubs pulled within 7-2, but only had three outs left to get more. • The Wrigley Field sound system blasted “Looking for a Hero” as the Cubbies went to bat in the bottom of the 9th. They need a lot of heroes. That’s your final: Indians 7, Cubs 2. Cubbies have now scored two runs in the last 22 innings, The Indians will go for the clincher Sunday night. I remember Indians fan Aaron Murray of Princeton predicted in the BCR the Indians would win in 5. I told him that was pretty bold. Good Night. See you back in Bureau County. Editor’s Note: The Cubs won Sunday’s Game 5 to send the Series back to Cleveland.
IVS photo/Mike Vaughn
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