2017 BEST OF THE FOX READERS’ CHOICE AWARDS
CHOOSE YOUR FAVORITE KENDALL COUNTY BUSINESSES Vote online at KendallCountyNow.com
PLANO RECORD TH U RS D A Y, A PR IL 1 3, 2017 • $1.00 • Ke n dallCoun tyN ow.co m
FUNDRAISER A SMASH HIT Emily G. Johns School raises $10K for Leukemia and Lymphoma Society Ottawa, IL www.BullockAuctioneers.com UPCOMING AUCTIONS Spring Discovery Auction Estate Fresh Antiques • Sat., April 22 • 9:00am
More than 500 lots of estate fresh antiques, primitives, art, and collectibles. Special preview April 21st.
Fantastic 19th Century Glassware Auction • Sun., April 23 • 10:00am Over 500 lots of 19th century glass. Some fantastic pieces!
Spring Firearms, Military & Hunting Auction • Sat., April 29 • 9:00am
Our Spring Firearms Auction, 100-200 firearms, WW2 German Military Collection, US Military Uniform Collection, Ammo, Knives, and much more. SM-CL0404578
Call Matt at (815) 970-7077 or (815) 220-5005
We are a FFL auction firm
/ 15
Plano Record / KendallCountyNow.com • Thursday, April 13, 2017
2
PLANO RECORD KendallCountyNow.com OFFICE 109 W. Veterans Parkway (U.S. Route 34), second floor Yorkville, IL 60560 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday-Friday 630-553-7034 NEWSROOM 630-553-7034 Fax: 630-553-7085 News@KendallCountyNow.com SUBSCRIBER SERVICES 866-445-6258 Circulation@KendallCountyNow.com 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday-Friday 7 to 10 a.m. Saturday and Sunday SUBSCRIPTIONS 866-445-6258 CLASSIFIED SALES 877-264-2527 Fax: 815-477-8898 classified@shawsuburban.com LEGAL NOTICES 877-264-2527 PublicNotice@KendallCountyNow.com RETAIL ADVERTISING 630-553-7034 OBITUARIES 877-264-2527 Obits@KendallCountyNow.com
We’re improving our website We’ve heard the complaints about our website at KendallCountyNow. com and other news websites over the years, and in many cases we’ve shared them. Like you, we’re tired of ads that take over the entire screen until you can find the little box to tap or click so they’ll disappear. We’ve been aggravated by advertising video that plays automatically. We’re sick of websites so weighed down with add-ons that they seem to take forever to load. We, too, see the irony of being an organization committed to “real news” but including links to “click-bait” stories about fad diets and C-list celebrity gossip under stories. We know you come to our site to read the news, not answer survey questions. So starting now, we’re getting rid of that stuff. In the weeks ahead, visitors to KendallCountyNow.com
POSTMASTER: Please send change of address forms to Plano Record, c/o Shaw Media, P.O. Box 250, Crystal Lake, IL 60039-0250. Published every Thursday in Plano, Illinois, Kendall County, by Shaw Media. Periodicals postage paid at Plano, Illinois, 60545. Subscription rates: One year, $28 in Kendall County; $36 elsewhere in Illinois and $47 outside Illinois Plano Record and KendallCountyNow.com are a division of Shaw Media. All rights reserved. Copyright 2017
• Relevant information • Marketing Solutions • Community Advocates
ON THE COVER Emily G. Johns School fourth-grade teacher Abby Long loses to student Alexa Arias during egg roulette, one of many events held at the school to raise money for the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society. The school was able to raise over $10,000 over the three-week fundraising campaign. See story on page 15. Photo provided
John Etheredge are going to start to see continuous improvements to our website. It will be cleaner, faster, and provide a far better reading experience. Our print subscribers also can expect to see a better e-edition. In addition, there will be several new benefits that come with membership in Shaw Media’s subscription service that we hope you will enjoy. Starting next month, subscribers will receive The Neighborhood Tourist, a premium local glossy magazine featuring all the best things to see and do in and around our area. You will receive up to four Neighborhood Tourist magazines a year with your
membership. In conjunction with these improvements, we’re revising our subscription plan. Subscribers should receive a letter explaining these changes soon. If you haven’t received it within the next week or so, please call our customer service hotline at 800-397-9397. Our goal is to be the leading source of local news and information in Kendall County and Sandwich, and to provide readers with the information they want and need in print and online. It was your feedback that spurred us to make these changes, and we want to know how you think we are doing. Please share your thoughts about the new online experience, and any ideas you have about how we can continue to make our websites better, by sending us an email at comments@ shawmedia.com.
Plano School Board seeks applicants
General Manager Steve Vanisko 815-280-4103 svanisko@shawmedia.com Editor John Etheredge 630-553-7034 jetheredge@shawmedia.com
EDITOR’S NOTE
By LYLE R. ROLFE news@kendallcountynow.com The newest members of the Plano School District 88 Board have not yet been sworn in and officials already have another vacancy to fill. However, it may be filled by Mike Jernigan, a former board member who lost his bid for re-election to a two-year seat on April 4. There were three fouryear seats open and two two-year seats open on the board in last week’s election. Paul Heller and Shalley Wakeman were both up for re-election, Heller for four years and Wakeman for two years, but neither chose to run again, so their seats were open. Jim Ward and Estela Martinez, who were both up for re-election to four-year seats, were re-elected, and Dwayne Love, a newcomer, was elected
to fill Heller’s vacancy. Tim Waldrop was elected to fill Wakeman’s two-year vacancy, but Jernigan was defeated for re-election so no one was elected to fill his twoyear seat. According to Kathy Benoit, administrative secretary to the school superintendent, it is likely that Jernigan will be seated for the vacant two-year term. But the board is still accepting letters of interest from community members for the seat, she said. The position is expected to be filled at the board’s April 24 meeting, Benoit said. The new appointee will serve until April 2019, when the seat will be up for re-election as a four-year position. Letters of interest are now being accepted by the Board of Education from residents interested in filling the vacancy. They should be mailed or delivered by 3 p.m. Tuesday, April 18, to the
Plano School District Administration Office at 800 S. Hale St., Plano, IL 60545, next to the Plano Middle School. An applicant must be at least 18 years of age by the time of appointment, a U.S. citizen, an Illinois resident, a registered voter, and a resident of the Plano School District for at least one year prior to being appointed to the board. Applicants should show a familiarity with board policies regarding general duties and responsibilities of the board and being a board member. This information is available on the district website at plano88.org. The Illinois Association of School Boards also has published information for prospective school board members, which is available at iasb.com/pdf/ YourSchoolBoardandYou.pdf. For more information, call Benoit at 630-552-8978.
a.m. to 5 p.m. This program allows senior citizens to purchase meal tickets for $3 each and redeem them at restaurants in Plano for a meal valued at $6.50. There is a limit of four Dine-Out tickets per month per participant. Dine-Out meal tickets will be
accepted at all times, seven days a week. Participants must show a photo ID and a Plano Dine-Out Program ID card when paying for the meal with the ticket. For information, call Les Ries at 630552-9170.
BRIEF Senior meal tickets available
The Community Meals for Seniors program is available for all city of Plano seniors 60 years of age and older. Seniors must register and purchase “Dine-Out” tickets at Plano City Hall during normal business hours Monday through Friday, 8
WHEN YOU NEED TO KNOW NOW: Get local news sent right to you. Sign up for KendallCountyNow.com text alerts at shawurl.com/kcntexts. Message and data rates may apply.
– Plano Record
Wintery mix impact Ke Tuesday could ndall Cou http://sh awurl.com nty: /2ft1
By LYLE R. ROLFE news@kendallcountynow.com
By LYLE R. ROLFE news@kendallcountynow.com The Plano City Council approved requests for changes from two local businesses during a meeting March 27. The Harvest Restaurant in downtown Plano will now be allowed to served mixed drinks, rather than just wine and beer. At the request of Ari Lleshi, the restaurant owner, city council members approved issuing Lleshi a Class E license in place of his present Class B license. Plano Mayor Bob Hausler said Lleshi will have a small selection of mixed drinks that will be pre-
pared out of sight of the patrons. “I spoke with Ari and he does not want a bar atmosphere. He wants a restaurant atmosphere but with the ability to serve a mixed drink for those who want one with their meals,” he said. Lleshi said his business has tripled since he received the beer and wine license, adding that patrons are now asking for a mixed drink to go with their meal. He said he would have five to six different cocktails available because he wants to retain the family atmosphere. On recommendation of City
See LIQUOR LICENSE, page 5
3
Thursday, April 13, 2017
Plano City Council members continued their discussion Monday night of a proposal by Menards to drill a private well on the firm’s Eldamain Road site. About 20 residents were present but only one person, Sue Hansen, spoke. She said she heard that Menards could change its plans and move the well to a location in Missouri if this one was not approved. Scott Nuttelman, Menards real estate representative, said this was a possibility, but it is not being considered at this time. The water will be mixed with a non-hazardous chemical by Menards to treat lumber it uses and sells for building construction. Nuttelman said the process is expected to create 100 new jobs. He said the issue before the city is whether Menards can drill a well on its own property that would be used only by this plant and for this purpose. He said Menards officials could ask the city to sell them water for this use, but added that it would be treated for human consumption, something they do not need for their process. Nuttelman said there were questions about the amount of water the company would use. It would be less than the average farmer would use to irrigate a 100-acre field for one season. However, the usage would depend on how many shifts the plant would have going and for how long. This could vary depending on the time of year, he added. Nuttelman said Menards has detention ponds at its Wisconsin plant that supplement the water pumped from the well. This could also be done at Plano, he said. It would be an additional cost for the line and pumps to bring the water to the plant, but reduce the amount needed from the well by only 5 to 10 percent, he added. “We could consider it,” he said. Alderman Melody Herreid said the issue should have gone to a committee for more discussion before going to the Committee of the Whole and then the council for a decision. “I never seen anything pushed through as quickly as this in 12 years,” she added. However, Mayor Bob Hausler noted that this was the sixth Committee of the Whole discussion on the subject. He said every council member and concerned resident had an opportunity to hear all discussions, ask questions and make their own comments. Alderman Mike Rennels agreed with Hausler and said the issue was more open to the public at the Committee of the Whole meetings than if discussed in a small committee. He noted that the Menards representative was at every meeting so he could hear the residents’ concerns and respond to them.
Hausler said he would like to see Menards consider a retail expansion in the Plano area. Nuttelman said Plano would be welcome to suggest any potential sites in the city for a retail store. He noted that the present agreement is only for the well and wood treatment plant. But if this project is completed, it could have a bearing on any future decision for a retail facility, he added. A revised agreement for the well will be submitted to the council to be placed on the agenda for a vote at the April 24 council meeting. Rich Healy, director of the Plano Area Chamber of Commerce, speaking as a representative of the Plano Economic Development Corporation, told city council members that expanding the Menards facility could have a positive effect on the city. There are three points to consider, Healy said. First is the long-range plan for Kendall County to upgrade Eldamain Road. It has become a destination for more commercial and industrial growth, he said. He noted that Menards has been joined by Kendall Farms and the new solid waste transfer plant. And more development will follow, he added. Healy said he and the economic development director of Yorkville have been working with Nicor to extend natural gas lines along both sides of Eldamain Road to attract more commercial and industrial growth to the area. The second point is the strong need for more jobs in the area. “Job creation is extremely important to the area. The Menards expansion will help open up more opportunities to attract more jobs,” he said. He noted that General Mills in West Chicago has closed, which cost the area many jobs. And the recent announcement that Caterpillar in Montgomery will be closing in 2018 will mean the loss of 800 jobs, Healy said. “Whether it’s one or 800 jobs, it has a ripple effect. As more people are employed, they have more money, and as they have more money they buy more. And as they buy locally, it has an impact on the sales tax revenue, and helps support those business, which helps attract more new businesses,” Healy said. The third reason growth is important, he said, is that it affects what the city gets in property tax revenue. “Every taxing body in Little Rock Township will benefit from property tax revenue – the school district, township, library, fire district, county. They all benefit from increased tax assessments. These factors must be considered,” he said. Healy noted that the school districts receive the most benefit, but said every taxing body receives some benefit.
City OKs liquor license change, auto parts store
LOCAL NEWS | Plano Record / KendallCountyNow.com •
Menards well back on city council’s agenda
Photo provided by Jim Likeness
Plano Mayor Bob Haulser (right) recognized Plano residents Betty Cottingim and Barbara Yundt at the March 27 city council meeting.
Plano mayor honors local seniors for volunteer work PLANO RECORD Plano Mayor Bob Hausler recognized two local senior citizens at the March 27 City Council meeting as he proclaimed his endorsement for Mayor and County Day of Recognition for National Service. Plano residents Betty Cottingim and Barbara Yundt represented Senior Services Associates and accepted the proclamation that evening as representatives of the more than 200 active volunteers in Kendall County participating in the Retired and Senior Volunteer Program (RSVP).
Many of these volunteers serve the needy regularly through the food pantry and other local nonprofit agencies. RSVP volunteers are mature adults over 55 who network together to participate in various volunteer projects throughout the year, focusing primarily on promoting healthy futures for seniors in the area. Both ladies are longtime participants in activities and projects at Senior Services Associates Yorkville center. For more information on national days of service and the Senior Corps projects such as RSVP, call Barb Nadeau at 630-553-5777.
Plano Record / KendallCountyNow.com • Thursday, April 13, 2017
4
FORUM LETTERS TO THE EDITOR Support is appreciated
To the Editor: To the residents of Little Rock Township: I would like to thank everyone who took the time to vote in the April 4 election. A special “Thank You” to the ones who considered and voted for me. Your support is truly appreciated. Thank you.
Marie Bracken
Little Rock Township Assessor Plano
Submit letters Letters must be no longer than 400 words and must be accompanied by the writer’s full name, address and home phone number. Only the author’s name and city of residence will be printed. We reserve the right to edit all letters for brevity and fairness. Send letters to letters@kendallcountynow. com or Record Newspapers, 109 W. Veterans Parkway, Yorkville, IL 60560.
When riders carried mail at a gallop The Pony Express has become the stuff of American legend, thanks to William “Buffalo Bill” Cody and his world-famous Wild West shows. Businessman William Russell established the Pony Express in April 1860 as a publicity stunt he hoped would help him win a contract to carry the U.S. mail by stagecoach from Independence, Missouri, to California. Russell’s ploy lasted only 18 months, and never carried the U.S. mail, but rather acted as a private express service. As one of his riders later put it, it was “a put-up job from start to finish.” Despite the Pony Express’s short, ineffective run, thanks to Buffalo Bill (who was one of the young men who rode for the company) it has gone down in American history as a noble effort to provide speedy transcontinental communications. In fact, since 1907, it has been the subject of 15 movies, two made-for-TV movies and a 1959 television series. Although most of us seem to believe Russell’s effort was the first of its kind, people living at the time
Lawn Mowing By
REFLECTIONS Roger Matile knew it was not. In fact, the U.S. Post Office itself ran a much more effective and heavily used Express Mail service that connected much of the nation during the 1830s. And unlike Russell’s PR stunt, it actually carried the U.S. mail. Designed primarily to carry financial news linking important but far-distant cities in the west such as New Orleans and St. Louis, the Express Mail had a couple branches. One of those branches of the Express Mail passed through our state of Illinois, connecting Dayton, Ohio with St. Louis, passing through Vandalia, Illinois, on the National Road. Express Mail differed from regular mail in that it was carried by a single man on horseback who was required to make the best time possible. Unlike with regular mail contracts, Express Mail carriers could lose their con-
tracts if they were late or missed a delivery. Express Mail service was sporadically established at many times during the nation’s early history. Private express riders carried messages during the colonial period, then after the Revolution, most expresses were part of the military communications network. The need for fast, universally available long-distance communications service became apparent in the spring of 1825. When a fast sailing ship arrived from England, New York cotton merchants learned that cotton prices on the London market had skyrocketed. They then bribed the contractor carrying mail between New York and New Orleans to delay the news of the price jump. Meanwhile, the merchants rushed their buy orders to New Orleans ahead of the news so they could purchase cotton at low prices. And they made a hefty profit on the scam, too. Postmaster General John McLean,
See REFLECTIONS, page 5
Find A Kubota That Fits The Bill!
HARRIS LAWN CARE
630.669.9880
Z411KW-48
Z122RKW-42
• 22 Gross HP, Gasoline, Air-Cooled V-Twin Engine • Commercial Transmission • High Back Seat
• 21.5 Gross HP, Gasoline, Air-Cooled V-Twin Engine • 42” Pro Commercial Mower Deck
RTV-X900
BX2370
• 21.6 Gross HP, 3-Cylinder Kubota Diesel Engine • Variable Hydro Transmission (VHT-X) • 4-WD
• 23 Gross HP, 3-Cylinder Kubota Diesel Engine • Category I, 3-Point Hitch
Call now for your
FREE ESTIMATE! $0 DOWN, 0% A.P.R. FINANCING FOR UP TO 60 MONTHS ON NEW KUBOTAS!*
DeKANE EQUIPMENT
47 West 619 US Highway 30 • Big Rock, IL 630-556-3271
adno=0372406
* $0 down, 0% A.P.R. financing for up to 60 months on purchases of new Kubota ZP, BX, B (excluding B26), L (excluding L39/L45/ L47), M, MH (M7), MX, M-SU, M6060/ M7060, M4, M5 (excluding M5N/M5L), RB, DMC, DM, RA, TE Series equipment is available to qualified purchasers from participating dealers’ in-stock inventory through 5/31/2017. Example: A 60-month monthly installment repayment term at 0% A.P.R. requires 60 payments of $16.67 per $1,000 financed. 0% A.P.R. interest is available to customers if no dealer documentation preparation fee is charged. Dealer charge for document preparation fee shall be in accordance with state laws. Inclusion of ineligible equipment may result in a higher blended A.P.R. 0% A.P.R. and low-rate financing may not be available with customer instant rebate offers. Financing is available through Kubota Credit Corporation, U.S.A., 1000 Kubota Drive, Grapevine, TX 76051; subject to credit approval. Some exceptions apply. Offer expires 5/31/2017. See us for details on these and other low-rate options or go to www.kubota.com for more information. Power (HP/KW) and other specifications are based on various standards or recommended practices. For complete warranty, safety and product information, please refer to the operator’s manual or consult your Kubota dealer. K1068-01-136254-2
• REFLECTIONS
Continued from page 4
BRIEF Hultgren to take part in League of Women Voters’ Q&A session
a news release. League rules prohibit signs and other politically-oriented items within the League session. The League of Women Voters invites The event is being co-sponsored by community members to a 14th Congressional District question-and-answer the League of Women Voters of Central Kane County, the League of Women session from 7 to 8:30 p.m. Tuesday, Voters DeKalb Area MAL Unit, the April 18, at the Arcada Theatre, 105 E. Main St., St. Charles. Doors will open at League of Women Voters Elgin Area, the League of Women Voters McHen6:30 p.m. ry County and the League of Women U.S. Rep. Randy Hultgren, R-Plano, will answer questions during the event. Voters Naperville. The League of Women Voters is a Questions will come from the audience and must be written on question cards nonpartisan political organization that encourages informed and active particpassed out by League members. The questions will be reviewed by League is- ipation of citizens in government. Learn sues specialists for clarity, conciseness, more at lwvil.org. – Plano Record duplication and suitability, according to
Shaw Media file photo
The Stone Mill Museum, at the corner of Railroad and Lafayette streets in Sandwich, is open from 1 to 4 p.m. Sundays, April through September, hosted by members of the Sandwich Historical Society. Four floors of local area antiques, collectibles and photographs are open to the public for viewing. Items also focus on the Sandwich Fair, local industry, native American displays in the lower floor, and former businesses. No admission is charged, but donations are appreciated.
Sandwich Lions Club offering free vision screening for children PLANO RECORD The Sandwich Lions Club is once again offering a free children’s vision screening which is most helpful for young children (age 6 months to 6 years old) on Saturday, April 15, in conjunction with the Sandwich Park District Easter Egg Hunt. Screening will be from 8:30 to 10:30 a.m. This event is in conjunction with District 1-J Lions and supported by a grant by Lions Clubs International Foundation. Parental approval will be required. The events are held at Knights Park, 1001 N. Latham St. in
• LIQUOR LICENSE
Continued from page 3 Attorney Tom Grant, council members reduced the number of Class B liquor licenses from five to four. Grant said Lleshi will surrender his Class B license. “We should never have an open license out there,” Grant said. Council members also approved a resolution authorizing O’Reilly’s
Sandwich. The local Lions Club held a successful screening last fall and is once again offering this special service. The Lions will be using a plusoptiX Screener for the prescreening. The unit is a non-intrusive camera that quickly takes a picture of the child’s eyes from a distance of about 3 feet. If this sensitive piece of equipment shows a referral is needed, then the parent is recommended to see an eye doctor. Early detection can solve many problems. Children over 6 can be screened by the unit if the parent desires. For further information, call Lion Sue Carter at 630-330-1339. Auto Parts to construct a building at 923 Route 34 for their business. Grant said older building on the site is being razed. The Plan Commission recommended approval of the new site plan, according to Grant. “I think this will be an excellent project for that location. A brand new building and business will be taking the place of an eyesore and we’re excited about this. It’s been a long process, but it’s been worth the time and effort spent on it,” Hausler said.
5
Thursday, April 13, 2017
• Looking for more local history? Visit http://historyonthefox.wordpress.com.
Museum reopens for spring, summer seasons
FORUM & LOCAL NEWS | Plano Record / KendallCountyNow.com •
vowing such a thing would never happen again, prohibited mail contractors from carrying private messages “outside the mail,” and also established an Express Mail to travel what was called the Great Mail Line from New York to New Orleans. McLean’s expresses, however, only traveled a few times a year. It would be up to one of his successors to create a true Express Mail service. Amos Kendall took over the post of postmaster general for President Andrew Jackson following a scandal that erupted over Postmaster General William Barry, who was not only incompetent, but allowed politics to enter the mail carriage contract system, driving the previously financially healthy postal service into bankruptcy. Enter Kendall – our county’s namesake – who instituted a wide range of reforms. Those reforms, combined with a nationwide financial boom, created huge postal revenue surpluses. Kendall decided to spend his newfound surplus cash on a comprehensive Express Mail service carrying regular mail and newspaper “slips” along the New York to New Orleans route. Regular mail was carried at three times the normal postage, while newspaper slips (described as “small parts of newspapers, cut out, or strips specially printed ... to convey the latest news, foreign, and domestic”) were carried free of charge from town to town to spread the news. President Jackson signed the bill creating the Express Mail into law in July 1836, and service began that autumn. Within a few weeks, another express route was added from Philadelphia to Mobile, Alabama. In 1837, two Missouri legislators prevailed on Kendall to establish a branch of the Philadelphia to Mobile express from Dayton, Ohio to St. Louis. On that
line was the Illinois state capital at Vandalia. Starting on Oct. 1, 1837, express riders traveled from Dayton to Richmond, Indiana, and on to Indianapolis. From Indianapolis, the route ran 72 miles to Terre Haute, Indiana. Two months later, on Dec. 10, 1837, the route was extended across the 99 miles of prairie from Terre Haute to Vandalia, and from there, 65 miles to St. Louis. Each stage of the trip was made daily by express riders. The daily expresses made a considerable difference in the time it took for news to make its way west. In 1835, it took letters an average of 11 days and 15 hours to get from New York to Vandalia. Thanks to the Express Mail, that time was cut by almost two-thirds to just 4 days, 15 hours. But by late 1838, the days of the Express Mail were numbered. Thanks to the accelerating pace of railroad construction and major improvements to the nation’s road system, the regular mail had become nearly as fast as the express. As a Louisville, Kentucky, newspaper put it in 1838: “The rapidity with which the ordinary mail now travels from New York ... makes it practically an express without the charge of triple postage.” As a stopgap while the nation improved its transportation infrastructure, the Express Mail was a success, keeping the nation tied together via the most sophisticated information technology the era offered. And it might be interesting to note that sending a one-page letter by Express Mail from New York to Vandalia in 1837 cost 75 cents – a time when land in Illinois was selling for $1.25 per acre. That certainly puts any modern postal rate increases into some historical perspective.
Plano Record / KendallCountyNow.com • Thursday, April 13, 2017
| LOCAL NEWS
6
Hotel planned for former Countryside site Banquet, conference center also proposed By TONY SCOTT tscott@kendallcountynow.com A hotel may be locating in the Kendall Crossing development, in the area formerly known as Countryside Center, as soon as next year, a developer announced at a meeting March 29. Sonny Shah of Kendall Hospitality LLC told the Yorkville City Council’s Economic Development Committee that he is proposing a four-story national chain hotel with more than 90 rooms on an approximately 3-acre parcel northwest of the NCG Cinemas movie theater. The development also will feature an approximately 10,000-square-foot adjacent banquet and conference center, Shah confirmed. The center will seat about 385 people in a banquet setting and 575 people in a setting for a seminar or conference, according to Shah. The $10 million project is expected to create approximately 70 jobs, Shah said. Shah said he was unable at this time to reveal the brand of the hotel, as they are finalizing the franchise documents with the chain. “I will tell you one thing, it’s in the top five [hotel] names in the United States,” he said. Jason Pesola, partner in the Kendall Crossing development, said he and his partners conducted a feasibility study two years ago to determine if a hotel would work in that space. Following a positive result from the study, Pesola pursued a hotel for the development, he said. Shah said he was approached by Pesola about the development, and later was introduced to Lynn Dubajic, the city’s economic development consultant, and Kendall Crossing developer
Tony Scott – tscott@kendallcountynow.com
If approved, this parcel just north of the NCG Cinema movie theater in Yorkville’s Kendall Crossing development would be the site of a new national chain hotel as well as a banquet and conference center. Jim Ratos to discuss the development. “It’s a very nice community, very nice people,” Shah said of Yorkville. Shah said he expects to break ground this year, and his ultimate goal would be to open by Memorial Day weekend 2018. Shah is an experienced hotelier in the Chicago area, currently working on a multiple-hotel and restaurant project in Bensenville near O’Hare International Airport. The March 29 meeting was to discuss a TIF district inducement agreement, a document that is required by state law as part of the process for the developer to request reimbursement for TIF funds, according to a memo from City Administrator Bart Olson. “State law mandates that the [city] acknowledge that a development plan is being undertaken in order to permit these expenses to be ‘potentially’ reimbursable from future revenues received as a result of the approved plan and project,” Olson’s memo to the aldermen states. “As you are aware, this TIF inducement resolution makes no
Riemenschneider Electric, Inc.
• New Construction • Service Upgrades • Remodeling • Residential • Bucket Truck Service • Repairs
Licensed • Bonded • Insured Scott Riemenschneider
630-553-5576
1212 Badger St., Yorkville, IL 60560
guarantee as to the amount or type of assistance to the owner, as these items will get negotiated with the city at a later date. Finally, the resolution specifically states that all undertakings by the city are contingent upon the city’s approval of an agreement for the development of the property.” Also according to Olson, Shah has
also applied with the state for an enterprise zone designation via the Upper Illinois River Valley Development Authority, a regional economic development agency. According to the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity, which oversees the Enterprise Zone Program, developers receive certain incentives if they are approved as an enterprise zone project, including exemption on retailers’ occupation tax paid on building materials, an investment tax credit of 0.5 percent of qualified property, expanded state sales tax exemptions on purchases of personal property used or consumed in the manufacturing process or in the operation of a pollution control facility, an exemption on the state utility tax for electricity and natural gas, and an exemption on the Illinois Commerce Commission’s administrative charge and telecommunication excise tax. The IDCEO also states that exemptions are available for companies that “make minimum statutory investments that either create or retain a certain number of jobs.” Olson wrote that, “If the enterprise zone is successful, the owner has said that the ability to proceed with the project will require TIF assistance.”
SOMETHING TO THINK ABOUT SHOWING SYMPATHY There is no strict etiquette involving expressions of sympathy. There are a variety of acceptable ways in which people wish to share in your loss and express their love, respect and grief. Some will come to both the visitation and funeral service. Others will be at just one. Most who are at the funeral service will want to be with you at the committal. Some of
Jeff Beverage - Director
those whom you will see during the period of the funeral, and others who are able to attend, may wish to further show their affection with a tangible expression such as flowers or another form of remembrance. It is important for the survivors to be tolerant and generous in their own right. They must accept the fact that relatives, friends and associates may express their sympathy and offer comfort in a variety of ways. Such expressions and consolation — should be given and received in the proper spirit.
Beverage Family Funeral Home & Cremation Services 104 Terry Street, Sandwich, IL 815-786-6715 "Sandwich's Only Locally Owned Funeral Home”
7
Work continuing on project to widen Rt. 34 By TONY SCOTT tscott@kendallcountynow.com
More Than Just Tires!
Struts/Shocks Brakes Exhaust Work
815-786-7670 Sandwich, IL – Take Route 34 Go South on Gletty Road Mon - Fri 8-5, Sat 8-Noon SM-CL0405858
Faith. Love. Peace. May your heart bloom with the many blessing of this holy season at Easter and always.
BRIEF Plano Legion accepting scholarship applications
Scholarship applications are now available from Leon Burson American Legion Post 395 Plano. Two one-year, $1,000 scholarships will be awarded. Eligibility requirements are included in the application forms. One scholarship is available for a senior graduating from Plano High School and the other is available for a senior graduating from any U.S. high school, including Plano
High School. Applications can be obtained from the Plano High School guidance counselor, by calling the Leon Burson Post 395 scholarship chairman at 630-888-8128 or on the Legion website, planolegion.org – select scholarships. Completed applications must be turned in by May 1 to the Plano High School guidance counselor or the Plano American Legion.
– Plano Record
We wish you a joyous holiday. 420 E. Church St., Sandwich 815-786-2146
WatersDentalGroup.com
Thursday, April 13, 2017
Crews continue to work on the Route 34 widening project in Yorkville and Oswego. D Construction of Coal City is widening 3.65 miles of the highway to five lanes with new storm sewers, curbs and gutters, infiltration trenches and basins, traffic signals, a shared-use path and landscaping from just east of Route 47 in Yorkville to just west of Orchard Road in Oswego. The Illinois Department of Transportation awarded the contract to D Construction in November of 2015, hiring the firm to complete the $33.2 million project. Alan Harwood, IDOT area supervisor for Kendall, Grundy and Livingston counties, said the agency has yet to put in place a construction engineer on the project. Harwood said the contractor was performing what work they could while waiting for clearance from nearby utilities. “We’ve been delayed about a year for utilities, and there is still a couple of them out there,” he said. “That’s why they’re doing stuff here and there,
and kind of jumping around.” For now, the contractor is installing storm sewers where they can, he said. The original schedule called for the crews to install storm sewer lines throughout the summer and begin to shape lanes in the fall, building the two northernmost lanes first, Harwood said. He said they may lay concrete down this year, but he is not sure how much progress they will make on that front. “They planned on just getting dirt and stone down this year, but something tells me they’re going to get some concrete down, but I don’t know how much as of yet,” he said. Harwood said waiting for utilities has been “out of their hands,” but “they’re getting closer.” “A lot more utilities have cleared out,” he said. Harwood said the project is expected to take a little more than two construction seasons to complete. In the meantime, he said IDOT officials are looking for a venue to hold a public meeting to give residents an update on the project. He said the goal of the meeting is to “get everyone together who wants to come in to see what’s going on.”
• FIRESTONE • MASTERCRAFT • GOODYEAR • UNIROYAL • MICHELIN
LOCAL NEWS | Plano Record / KendallCountyNow.com •
Tony Scott - tscott@kendallcountynow.com
Crews with D Construction of Coal City work on Route 34 just east of Route 47 in Yorkville.
Plano Record / KendallCountyNow.com • Thursday, April 13, 2017
| PLANO RECORD 8
PLANO LIBRARY PROGRAMS
NOW PLAYING
RT. 34
e-In v i r D TER A E H T
Area schools selling plants PLANO RECORD The Plano Middle School Leadership Club is sponsoring its fifth annual native plant sale to raise funds for native landscape improvements at the school and to encourage homeowners to incorporate plants that support Illinois wildlife into their gardens. Orders will be taken through May 1. Pickup dates will be May 17 from 2:40 to 6:30 p.m. for 17 plant species with earlier growth habits and June 14 for five plant varieties with later growth habits. Pickup location is at the district maintenance building, 802 S. Hale St. in Plano.
ON CAMPUS Benedictine University recently announced its fall 2016 Dean’s List and Dean’s Recognized List. The Dean’s List recognizes full-time students who achieve a 3.500 grade point average or above. The Dean’s Recognized List recognizes part-time students who achieve a 3.500 grade point average or above. Plano students named to the Dean’s
$5 TUESDAYS SIGN UP FOR CLASSIC REWARDS
April 14-16
CINEMA 7
F8: The Fate of the Furious
101 DUVICK AVENUE - SANDWICH 815/786-1999
Rated PG-13
The Great Wall
THE FATE OF THE FURIOUS* C
Rated PG-13
Fri to Sun: 10:40 12:30 1:30 3:20 4:20 6:10 7:10 9:00 10:00; Mon: 10:40 12:30 1:30 3:20 4:20 6:10 7:10; Tue & Wed: 4:20
SM-CL0404582
6:10 7:10 CC
Silk Screening & Embroidery, Inc. 1256 1256 S. Bridge St. (Rt. 47) Yorkville
SMURFS: THE LOST VILLAGE* B Fri to Sun: 10:10 12:15 2:20 4:25 6:30
adno=LV23654
Jackets, Shirts, Caps, Caps, Team Uniforms & Bowling Shirts Shirts
630-553-7710 630-553-7710 630-553-7710
8:25; Mon: 10:10 12:15 2:20 4:25 6:30;
KENDALL COUNTY
Tue & Wed: 4:25 6:30 CC
RECORD SANDWICH RECORD
THE BOSS BABY B Fri to Sun: 10:10 12:25 2:30 4:40 6:50 9:00; Mon: 10:10 12:25 2:30 4:40 6:50; Tue & Wed: 4:40 6:50 CC SM-CL0405846
PLANO RECORD OSW EGO LEDGER
List include Blanca Rosa Padilla, Abigail L. Smith and Angelica Solorio. Amanda A. Nelson of Plano was named to the Dean’s Recognized List. ••• Olivet Nazarene University recently announced students named to the Dean’s List during the fall 2016 semester. Nicholas Hernandez of Plano earned this honor.
FREE REFILLS ALL SIZES: POPCORN, SOFT DRINKS & ICEES
Friday - Sunday
(815) 246-9700 | www.rt34drivein.com 15 MIN. WEST OF SANDWICH AT EARLVILLE Box Office Opens At 7:00 P.M. Shows Start At Dusk
Plants, sold in 2-inch plugs with good root systems, are easy to plant. Woodland plants such as Virginia Bluebell and Shooting Star sell for $4 per plant. Sun-loving prairie forbs and grasses like Meadow Blazing Star, Butterfly Weed, Little Bluestem and Prairie Dropseed sell for $2 per plant. Order forms are available at the main offices at Plano Middle School, Emily G. Johns School or the District Administration Building. If you would like an order form emailed to you, contact Amy Hamilton at 630-392-4394 or ahamilton@plano88.org, or Angie Carreno at 630-552-3608 or acarreno@plano88.org.
TIMES FOR FRIDAY-WEDNESDAY, APRIL 14-19, 2017
★ NO PASSES OR COUPONS
9
Thursday, April 13, 2017
movement activities, songs, and art experiences. Call 630-552-2025 to register. Independent Storytime for 4’s & 5’s: Tuesdays, April 18, 25, 1 to 1:40 p.m. or 6:30 to 7:10 p.m. For independent 4 and 5 year-olds only, ADULT without an adult. Features longer stories, activities, music, and a craft. Parents must remain in Writers’ Group: Thursday, April 13, 6:30 to 8 the Kids’ Library during the program. Call 630-552p.m. Come join other writers to discuss your work. 2025 to register. Meets on the second and fourth Thursdays of each Me & My Grown-Up Storytime: Tuesdays, month in the Library Board Room. No registration April 18, 25, 10:30 to 11:10 a.m. For 3 and 4 yearrequired. Open to adults and high school students. olds with their grown-up. This transitional storytime is perfect for the little one who’s not ready YOUTH for independent storytime. Grown-ups will stay in the room and actively participate in the program Pizza & Pages: Thursday, April 13, 4:30 to 5:15 with their child. Features simple stories, rhymes, p.m. For students in grades 6-8. We’ll all read the movement activities, songs, and art experiences. same book before the meeting, talk about it, and Call 630-552-2025 to register. have some pizza. Call 630-552-2025 to register. Rhyme Time: Wednesdays, April 19, 26, Independent Storytime for 3’s, 4’s, & 5’s: 10:30 to 11 a.m. or 11:15 to 11:45 a.m. or 6 to 6:30 Mondays, April 17, 24, 10:30 to 11:10 a.m. or 1 p.m. For babies to age 3 accompanied by an adult. to 1:40 p.m. For independent 3- to 5-year-olds, This lap sit storytime features action rhymes, without an adult. Features simple stories, music, finger plays, songs, movement activities, a simple movement activities, and a simple craft. Parents story, and parent-child reading time. Active adult must remain in the Kids’ Library during storytime. participation is an integral part of this program. Call 630-552-2025 to register. Call 630-552-2025 to register. Me & My Grown-Up Storytime: Mondays, Rhyme Time: Thursdays, April 13, 20, 27, 10:30 April 17, 24, 6 to 6:40 p.m. For 3- and 4-year-olds to 11 a.m. For babies to age 3 accompanied by with their grown-up. This transitional storytime an adult. This lap sit storytime features action is perfect for the little one who’s not ready for rhymes, finger plays, songs, movement activities, independent storytime. Grown-ups will stay in a simple story, and parent-child reading time. the room and actively participate in the program Active adult participation is an integral part of this with their child. Features simple stories, rhymes, program. Call 630-552-2025 to register.
LOCAL NEWS | Plano Record / KendallCountyNow.com •
Plano Community Library has announced upcoming programs. The library is located at 15 W. North St. in Plano. For more information, call 630-552-2030 or visit planolibrary.info.
Spring arrives in Kendall County area
Plano Record / KendallCountyNow.com • Thursday, April 13, 2017
| LOCAL NEWS
10
Nine-year-old Destiny and her sister Geralyn (background), 13, practice fielding the softball with their dad at Plano High School on April 1.
Six-year-old Freddie Hohnke leads the way on his battery-powered ATV, while his dad, Fred, and 3-year-old brother, Lucas, follow, as they take advantage of the mild spring weather and new sidewalk along Douglas Street near Route 71 in Oswego on April 2. PHOTOS BY STEVEN BUYANSKY FOR SHAW MEDIA
11
means the
WORLD
Karic Glover (right) and his 10-year-old son Kadon (left) of Plano ride the trails at Saw Wee Kee Park in Oswego on April 2.
Two of the stocked trout couldn’t avoid capture on the opening day of trout season on Loon Lake in Silver Springs State Park near Plano on April 1.
Thursday, April 13, 2017
Loon Lake is surrounded by hundreds of anglers hoping to catch a big fish on opening day of trout season at Silver Springs State Park near Plano on April 1.
to you.
Providing compassionate, quality care means the world to us. Shaily Macker, M.D. Family Medicine • Primary care for all ages • On-site blood draws
LOCAL NEWS | Plano Record / KendallCountyNow.com •
Your family
• Secure patient portal • Electronic prescriptions
For a free meet-and-greet appointment, call 630-553-4600.
105 Saravanos Drive Yorkville, IL 60560 morrishospital.org/yorkville (in south Yorkville off Route 47/Bridge Street)
Plano Record / KendallCountyNow.com • Thursday, April 13, 2017
| LOCAL NEWS
12
Special needs community services fair coming up Event on April 22 in Plano to cover PUNS, living options, SSI and more SHAW MEDIA The Plano Area Special Education Cooperative, in conjunction with VALEES, is hosting a free community services fair for persons of all ages with special needs and their families. The fair will be from 9 a.m. to noon April 22 at Emily G. Johns School, 430 Mitchell Drive in Plano. The fair will have representatives
from area agencies that provide services such as housing, independent living options, post-secondary education, recreation opportunities, guardianship declarations, and how to get government benefits such as SSI. Lisa Jacino, program manager for Day One PACT’s Community Access Services in Geneva, will be the guest speaker. She will be explaining Illinois’
PUNS (Prioritization for Urgency of Need for Services), which is a statewide database that records information about individuals with developmental disabilities who are potentially in need of services. The state uses the data to select individuals for services as funding becomes available. It is imperative that all persons with developmental disabilities in Illi-
nois get in the PUNS database as early as possible. This is an important event for families to attend. In the state of Illinois, people with disabilities are entitled to needed services through the school system. When a person with a disability ages out of the school system at age 22, families become totally responsible for finding needed services and signing up for them. Families need to start the planning process in elementary school.
BRIEFS PHS child development classes offering activity days for preschoolers
There is no charge for this program but advance registration is required. To sign up, email dchatman@ The Plano High School child development classes with plano88.org or call 630-552-3178. Ms. Deb Chatman will be setting up activity days for Pathways to Success parent night preschoolers in May. The high school students will be providing interactive, planned for April 19 at Plano High School Plano High School Student Services will conduct an age-appropriate interest centers for the children. Dates informational meeting for parents of students in eighth listed below are available on a first-come, first-serve through eleventh grades from 7 to 8:30 p.m. Wednesbasis. There are two one-hour spots each day – 8 to 9 day, April 19, in the high school auditorium. a.m. or 1:30 to 2:30 p.m. Learn about the success that Plano High School has Dates available include: preschoolers (4- and 5-yearhad this year and how we can help parents and stuolds that are potty trained) – May 2, 4, 8, 10 and 12. Parents are welcome to stay or leave but are asked to dents get ready for post-secondary education. Breakout sessions will be offered for each grade level. be prompt at pickup.
bulous Motor C a F 3 oa
ch Trips!
Admission counselors from Aurora University, Northern Illinois University and Lewis University will provide information on college applications, courses that students should take in high school, and how admissions staff make decisions. A financial aid adviser from Aurora University will provide information on financial aid, affording college, who qualifies, and applying for aid. Benefits of AP courses, AP curriculum at Plano High School and earning college credit while in high school will also be covered. Call Plano High School Student Services with any questions at 630-552-3178.
– Plano Record
Fred Wayne & Son, Inc.
TRUCKING • Driveways Graveled • Pulverized & Black Dirt • Grain Hauling
Wisconsin Dells – Back To The 50’s | June 14-16, 2017
Yorkville, IL
“Back to the 50’s” musical at the Fireside Theater, Tommy Bartlett water show, Upper Dells boat tour, Wisconsin Opry & more. 2 nights lodging, 5 meals, 1 lunch. $595 pp, $695 single. $100 pp deposit when making reservation. Balance due 5-15-17.
Washington, D.C. | July 19-25, 2017 White House Visitors Center, Vietnam Veterans Memorial, Korean War Veterans Memorial, Arlington National Cemetery, Washington National Cathedral, National World War II Memorial, Smithsonian Institute Museums, Pentagon 9/11 Memorial Park & more. 6 nights lodging, 10 meals. $1295 pp, $1539 single. $300 pp deposit when making reservation. Balance due 6-15-17.
IL CC3852MC-CR
630-553-7885
66 Years of Service
adno=LV23665
Branson Christmas Shows Nov. 6-10, 2017 Nine shows! Oak Ridge Boys, Daniel O’Donell, Christmas Wonderland, Best of Neil Sedaka & The Carpenters, Hughes Brothers Christmas & more. 4 nights lodging at Hotel Grand Victorian. All meals in Branson. $888 pp, $1088 single. $100 pp deposit when making reservation. Balance due 10-1-17.
Kenny Durland
P.O. Box D Yorkville, IL 60560 630-553-5353
D&S Tours 206 E. N. St., Walnut, IL 61376 • Call toll free 877-904-8687 • www.dsbustours.com
adno=LV23664
KendallCountyNOW.com is the official website of the Kendall County Record. SM-CL0405847
Gjovik Chevy-Buick-GMC
NEW 2017 GMC
NEW 2016 BUICK
NEW 2017 CHEVY
SAVANNA 2500 CARGO VAN
VERANO
SPARK
MSRP: $27,365
MSRP: $14,975
12,475
$
Stock# C70275
SALE PRICE
*
SAVE $2,500!
Stock# B60503
SALE PRICE
MSRP: $32,170
19,997
$
*
NEW 2017 GMC
TERRAIN
16,400
$
*
SAVE 4,000! $
Stock# T70154
SALE PRICE
MSRP: $40,635
19,997
$
REGAL
TRAX
MSRP: $35,280
MSRP: $21,895
SALE PRICE
18.397
$
* SALE PRICE
SAVE ALMOST $3,500!
Stock# B70076
Stock# T70003
SALE PRICE
NEW 2017 GMC
CANYON SLT CREW CAB
TURBO! AWD! DRAC
30,280
$
35,635*
$
SAVE $5,000!
16% OFF!
NEW 2017 BUICK
NEW 2017 CHEVY
Stock# T70587
*
MSRP: $41,990
*
Stock# T70393
SAVE $5,000!
SALE PRICE
37,791*
$
SAVE $4,199!
JUST ANNOUNCED!
1000
$
DOWN PAYMENT ASSISTANCE PLUS 0% FOR 72 MOS. AVAIL ON SELECT 2016 & 2017 MODELS*
* To qualified buyers. See dealer for details. Prices plus taxes, title, license and doc fees, All prices, subject to change due to changes in factory incentives. These offers not available on prior sales. All vehicles subject to prior sale. Dealer not responsible for unintentional inaccuracies, if any, in vehicle descriptions or prices. Actual sale vehicles may vary from above photos. Prices expire three days from publication. **If financed through GM Financial. *** To owners of any year Ford Mustang.
Sales Hours
Mon-Fri 9am-9pm Saturday 9am-6pm
Service Hours
Mon-Fri 8am-6pm Saturday 8am-12pm
GM CERTIFIED USED VEHICLES | CERTIFIED SERVICE 815.786.2177 630.552.3422 800.378.3325
WE’RE NOT HERE TO SELL YOU A CAR, WE’RE HERE TO HELP YOU BUY ONE!
GJOVIKAUTO.COM
Thursday, April 13, 2017
MSRP: $25,685
MSRP: $20,400
26,670*
$
SAVE $5,500!
SAVE $7,366!
ENCORE
CRUZE
SALE PRICE
SALE PRICE
NEW 2017 BUICK
NEW 2017 CHEVY
Stock# C70187
Stock# T70123
13
PLANO RECORD | Plano Record / KendallCountyNow.com •
APRIL SHOWERS SAVE YOU BIG DOLLARS
Norway Store
14
Plano Record / KendallCountyNow.com • Thursday, April 13, 2017
| LOCAL NEWS
Mon - Fri 5 am - 8 pm · Sat 6 am - 8 pm · Sun 8 am - 5 pm
3654 N. IL Rte 71, Sheridan, Illinois 815.496.2669 SALE DATES
Tuesday, 4/18 - Saturday, 4/22, 2017
Centrella Bath Tissue ................................ 4-Rolls $2.49 Keebler Chips Deluxe (Choc. Chunk, Coconut, Oatmeal n Raisins, Original) ...............11.6 oz $2.99 RC, Sunkist, Grape, Sunkist Strawberry, Fruit Punch, Big Red, Sun Drop ......... 2 liters 99¢ Kellogg’s Fruit Snacks Paw Patrol, Barbie, Mario Kart..................................................... 8 oz. 2/$5.00
Grocery
Cascade Complete........................................... 75 oz $7.19 El Sabroso Tortilla Chips, Strips, Rounds ................... 13 oz. 2/$5.00 Yoplait Yogurt Key Lime, Raspberry, Strawberry/Banana .............................. 6 oz. 79¢ each Centrella Shredded Cheese (Cheddar, Mozz, Mild Cheddar) .................................................. 8 oz. $1.99
Meat
Call Ahead for Special Orders! Cut to Order USDA Choice T-Bone Steak .............................lb $8.99 Bnls/Sknls Chicken Breast .............................lb $1.99 USDA Choice Porterhouse ...........................1lb. $9.39 Lamb Chops .............................................................lb $9.89 Sugardale Hot Dogs ..............................................lb. 99¢ Leg of Lamb Bone-in .........................................lb $6.39
Deli
Havarti .......................................................................lb $4.99 Pepper Jack ............................................................ lb $4.99 Wilson Rst. Beef.................................................... lb $5.99
Produce
Asparagus................................................................. lb $1.69 Cucumber .................................................................each 69¢ Photos by Tony Scott - tscott@kendallcountynow.com
TOP: More than 300 people attended the fundraiser at the Fox Valley Kickers Club in Oswego on March 31. ABOVE: Organizer Dave Krahn addresses the crowd at the fundraiser.
Almost $40,000 raised for Oswego Moving Wall Volunteers sought for event at end of June By TONY SCOTT tscott@kendallcountynow.com A fundraiser for the Vietnam Moving Wall event in Oswego raised nearly $40,000 over the weekend, organizers said this week. Organizers held the Operation Salute and Boogie fundraiser on March 31 at the Fox Valley Kickers Club in Oswego, which drew more than 300 people and raised nearly $40,000 from sponsorships, ticket sales, a silent auction and raffles. Dave Krahn, the project’s co-chair, said in a statement, “We are humbled by this community’s commitment to making this project happen. It’s going to be an incredible event.“ The Vietnam Moving Wall will be in Oswego from June 29 to July 3 at Prairie Point Park on Plainfield Road
in Oswego. The Moving Wall event is a collaboration between the village of Oswego, Oswegoland Park District, School District 308, Oswego Chamber of Commerce and the Fox Valley Veterans Breakfast Club. Operation Salute and Boogie organizers included Brad Banks, Scott Gryder, Angie Hibben, Cathy Katz, Jeannie LaMarre, Scott Savage, Steve Sikorski, Phil Smith and Joe West. Local band the Stingrays provided musical entertainment and the Oswego Junior Women’s Club and local design/ print shop Imagination Print & Design sold themed T-shirts in support of the project. Organizers are now selling the 2,017 flags that will be placed in a “Healing Field,” with each one honoring a veteran or active service member. Flags can be purchased for $40 at healingfield. org/oswego17. To sign up as a volunteer for the event, interested parties can visit the Facebook site Vietnam Wall Oswego 2017.
Liquor
Busch (Reg & Light) ...............................30 pak. $11.99 Gallo Family Tito’s ................................................................. 750 ml $21.99 Sweet Red, Apple, Pineapple, Peach .... 2/$8.19 ALLEGIANT COMPLIANCE SERVICES, INC FINGER PRINTING • DRUGS & ALCOHOL TESTING
630-768-5234
NORWEGIAN BUFFET 1ST WEDNESDAY OF THE MONTH! 11AM-2PM HOMEMADE Store Restaurant Harvey’s Barber Shop Weekly Buffet &
WILL BE CLOSED APRIL 21ST TO MAY 8TH
SM-CL0401476
Join Us!
Daily Specials! Thursday: Broasted Chicken, Baby Back Ribs & Wing Special!
BIRDHOUSES & CLOCKS
HOMEMADE FRESH DELI SALADS & DELI SANDWICHES!
Photos provided
15
LOCAL NEWS | Plano Record / KendallCountyNow.com •
Emily G. Johns student council members are pictured with their classroom collection boxes. The school ran a three-week fundraising campaign for the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society and ended the campaign with a grand total of $10,578.25.
Thursday, April 13, 2017
Students participate in a hockey tournament as part of the fundraiser.
Plano school raises over $10,000 for Leukemia and Lymphoma Society PLANO RECORD Students, families and staff at Emily G. Johns School in Plano recently raised $10,578.25 for the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society. The school ran a three-week campaign to raise money for the society. The students participated in events including a hockey
tournament, T-shirt raffle, egg roulette with teachers, class incentives, dress-up days, and ice cream treats at lunch. The three classes that raised the most money earned a trip to Olive Garden in Oswego for a free lunch. Winning classes were Mrs. Long’s fourth-grade class with $1,505.24, Mrs. Schutt’s fourth-grade class with $840.94, and and Mrs. Wykes’ fifth-grade class with $702.41.
Tony Baker, principal at Emily G. Johns school in Plano, is pictured with Roman, a 5-year-old ALL patient, during one of many fundraising activities held to raise money for the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society.
Police: Pair with guns rob Oswego business SHAW MEDIA Oswego police are investigating a report of an armed robbery that occurred Monday evening at a business in the 2900 block of Route 34. Police were dispatched to the business at 8:45 p.m. for a report of an armed robbery that had just occurred. Police said employees reported that two men, wearing ski masks and armed with handguns, entered the business and demanded money. The pair fled with an undisclosed amount of currency. It is unknown whether they fled on foot or in a vehicle.
29 N. EDDY ST., SANDWICH, IL
Both suspects are described as African-American males, wearing black hoodies with jeans and black ski masks. One was approximately 5 feet 11 inches to 6 feet tall, in his late 20s to 30s, and the other was approximately 5 feet 4 inches to 5 feet 5 inches tall, and 16 to 18 years of age. Anyone who may have information is asked to call the Oswego Police Department’s Investigations Section at 630-551-7300. Information may also be reported to Kendall Crime Stoppers at 630-553-5999. Callers remain anonymous, and tips leading to arrests are eligible for a cash reward of up to $1,000.
Food Market
The Kendall County Sheriff’s Office has received phone calls from concerned citizens inquiring about legitimacy of mailings from the Illinois Sheriff’s Association regarding memberships. The Illinois Sheriff’s Association recently sent membership appeals out through the mail. Individuals choosing to join the voluntary program can do so for as little as $25, while businesses can show their support for a $50 contribution. According to the sheriff’s office, the payments help provide critically important technical resources, training and legislative support on key criminal justice issues. Contributions are tax-deductible and unlike other organi-
HOT BUYS
Chiquita Bananas ............................................................... lb 39¢ Fresh Chicken Leg Quarters ........................................... lb 59¢ Centrella Apple Juice ...............................................64 oz $1.29 Centrella Ultra Bleach .......................................96 oz 5/$5.00
FRESH MEAT
Whole Boneless Pork Tenderloin ........................................lb $2.99 Beef Chuck Roast .................................................................lb $3.99 T-Bone Steak .........................................................................lb $8.99 Homemade Brats, Italian Or Polish Sausage .....................lb $2.99
PRODUCE
zations in our state, the program does not solicit membership by telephone. The program is committed to its “no telemarketing” policy and only sends invitations to citizens to become members by mail. Individuals who would like more information can contact the Illinois Sheriffs’ Association at 401 E. Washington St., Suite 1000, Springfield, IL 62701, or 217-753-2372. Information is also available online at ilsheriff.org. Residents can also become members of the program by contacting the sheriff’s office. The membership program was formed to provide citizens with an opportunity to lend their support to more effective law enforcement and to help local law enforcement officers protect the lives and property of citizens.
Large Hass Avocados ..............................................................each 99¢ Seedless Whole Watermelon ........................................... each $3.99 Large Roma Tomatoes .............................................................. lb 99¢ Bi-Color Sweet Corn .......................................................... 2/$1.00
LIQUOR
Sky Vodka ..................................................................... 1.75 ltr $17.99 Barton’s Vodka ............................................................ 1.75 ltr $11.99 Miller Lite, Mgd, 64 ...................................................... 24 pk $13.99 Busch Beer ......................................................................30 pk $12.99
FRESH FISH
Atlantic Salmon .................................................................lb $13.99 Icelandic Cod ......................................................................lb $12.99 Catfish ................................................................................ lb $10.99 Mid Neck Clams ......................................................................each 69¢
PLANO POLICE REPORTS Warrant arrest County sheriff’s deputies arrested Timmith D. Washington Jr., 20, of the 1500 block of Stoneridge Circle, Yorkville, after stopping his vehicle for a traffic violation in the 2600 block of Eldamain Road April 8 at 8:10 p.m. Police said Washington was wanted on a Kendall County warrant for failure to appear in court on prior traffic charges. Cannabis possession Plano police arrested Brenda Valdiviezo, 21, of the 1000 block of 6th Street, Sandwich, after stopping her vehicle at a gas station in the 200 block of East South Street April 7 at 7:05 p.m. Police said Valdiviezo was wanted on a DeKalb County warrant and also charged
DELI
Honey Mustard Chicken Salad ....................................... 1/2 lb $4.19 Old Fashioned Macaroni Salad ...................................... 1/2 lb $3.19 Baby Artichoke Salad ...................................................... 1/2 lb $3.59 Mini Meatloaves Or Twice Baked Potatoes .................... each $3.99
with possession of a controlled substance, cannabis. Warrant arrest Plano police arrested Taylor A. Steele, in the 0-20 block of West Main Street April 6 at 4 a.m.. Police said Steele was wanted on a Bureau County warrant for failure to appear in court on a prior charge of illegal consumption. Warrant arrest Plano police arrested Paxton S. Pearson, 24, of the 200 block of Suzy Street, April 7 at 10:06 a.m. at his residence. Police said Pearson was wanted on Kane County warrant for failure to appear in court on a prior charge.
815-786-6211
SALE DATES: April 17 - 23
Association mailing not scam, county sheriff’s office says SHAW MEDIA
See our full 8 page ad in this paper or online at artsfoodmarket.com
Art ’s Gift Cards Are The Perfect Gift!
BAKERY
Hamburger Or Hot Dog Buns ........................................... 8 pk $2.99 Pretzel Hamburger Buns .................................................. 4 pk $2.69 Triple Layer Strawberry Shortcake ................................... $10.99 3 Pk Chocolate Eclairs ............................................................ $4.99 SM-CL0401478
Plano Record / KendallCountyNow.com • Thursday, April 13, 2017
| LOCAL NEWS
16
OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK 6AM - 9PM
VISIT US ONLINE! WWW.ARTSFOODMARKET.COM
KENDALL COUNTY SHERIFF’S REPORTS
Wallet lost, credit card used A resident of Kevin Lane in Oswego Township told sheriff’s deputies that he lost his wallet when he left it on his vehicle and then drove off from his residence April 9 at 3:20 p.m. Police said an unknown person found the wallet and then attempted to purchase items at a local business with a credit card that had been in the wallet.
Winrock Park pool damage County sheriff’s deputies took a report of criminal damage to property April 7 at the Oswegoland Park District’s Winrock Park swimming pool in the 20th block of Winrock
Cited driving mini-motorcycle County sheriff’s deputies cited Michael J. Rexrode, 30, of the 200 block of East Clark Street, Plano, with driving on a suspended license after stopping him for driving a mini-motorcycle on the roadway on West Street at Lee Street in Little Rock Township April 9 at 12:15 p.m. Police said Rexrode was also cited for operation of an ATV or off-highway motorcycle. Trespass incident County sheriff’s deputies are investigating an incident in which an unknown person attempted to enter a residence in the 100-200 block of Circle Drive East in Boulder Hill April 9 at 2 a.m. Police said the homeowner chased the person from the residence and provided deputies with a description. Curfew violations issued County sheriff’s deputies issued curfew violations to four juveniles after they stopped the vehicle they were riding in for failing to yield on East Main Street and Bruell Street in Bristol Township April 8 at 1:21 a.m. Police said the juvenile driver of the vehicle was also issued a citation for not having a valid driver’s license
We provide the mortgage.
You make the memories.
Home Loans hbtbank.com
due to the graduated driver’s license restrictions and a citation for having more than one passenger in the vehicle. All of the juveniles were released to parents at the location of the traffic stop, police said.
block of Fernwood Road in Boulder Hill April 8 at 8 p.m. Police said the incident involved thee household members but no charges were filed.
Boulder Hill home burglarized A home in the 0-70th block of Eastfield Road Inmate arrested at jail in Boulder Hill was found burglarized April 6, County sheriff’s deputies arrested Latayuss according to the county sheriff’s office. Police Jamal Curry, 23, of the 6100 block of Rockwell said that sometime during the day numerous Avenue, Chicago, April 9 at 1:25 p.m. at County items of jewelry, two firearms, a flat-screen Jail in Yorkville. Police said Curry, an inmate at TV and currency were taken from the home. the jail, was charged with aggravated battery Police said they are investigating. to a peace officer and criminal damage to government-supported property after he tossed ID theft reported fecal matter at a corrections deputy and A resident of Rogers Road in Fox Township damaged a broom that is property of the jail. filed an identity theft report with county sheriff’s deputies April 4. Police said the incident is Juvenile arrested in Boulder Hill being investigated. County sheriff’s deputies arrested a 13-yearold while responding to a report of individuals Vehicle part stolen entering a vacant residence in the 0-100 block A Yorkville resident told county sheriff’s of Circle Drive East in Boulder Hill April 9 at deputies April 5 that someone stole a part 8:20 p.m. Deputies were assisted by Oswego from his vehicle while it was parked in the police officers in locating three juveniles at the 9900 block of Route 47 in Yorkville sometime residence. Police said one of the juveniles was between Jan. 20 and April 2. Police said the found to be in possession of alcohol and metal part is valued at $700. knuckles. He was arrested on a charge of unlawful use of a weapon, according to police. Traffic violations The police investigation into the incident is • Nickolas Neidetcher, 25, of the 900 block continuing. of Lois Place, Joliet, failure to report an accident and improper lane usage. Fernwood Road domestic • Christopher S. Bishop, 20, of the 200 County sheriff’s deputies responding to a do- block of Bertram Drive, Yorkville, driving on a mestic battery incident at a home in the 0-100 suspended license.
17
Thursday, April 13, 2017
Tires slashed Someone slashed two tires on a vehicle that was parked in a driveway in the 100 block of Tealwood Road in Boulder Hill April 8, according to the county sheriff’s office. Police said damage was estimated at $350.
Road. Police said it appeared that someone threw something at a ceiling light fixture in one of the pool pavilions, knocking it down and damaging the light fixture. Police said they are investigating.
LOCAL NEWS | Plano Record / KendallCountyNow.com •
Boulder Hill confrontation County sheriff’s deputies are investigating an incident that occurred April 8 at 3:45 p.m. in the 0-100 block of Long Beach Road in Boulder Hill in which three male juveniles were seen cutting ribbons and flags off of trees. A neighbor confronted the juveniles and told them to stop, but the juveniles became argumentative and all three pulled out knives and threatened to cut the neighbor and his family, police said.
Plano Record / KendallCountyNow.com • Thursday, April 13, 2017
| SPORTS
18
JACKIE MEIER SHELTER INSURANCE / RECORD ATHLETE OF THE WEEK: ANDREW BASDEN
LEARNING ON THE FLY
Aspiring pilot breaks Plano record in 2nd year of pole vault
Plano senior Andrew Basden recently broke a 46-year-old program record in the pole vault. Basden cleared 12 feet, 1 inch at a dual meet last week.
By JOSHUA WELGE jwelge@kendallcountynow.com When Andrew Basden puts his mind to a goal, he follows it through. The Plano senior leaves for basic training with the Army on Aug. 1, a military future he’s aspired to since he was 5 years old. He has the same determination in sports. Basden picked up the pole vault for the first time last year, and promptly declared his goal to break Plano’s program record. “I was so far away from it at the time,” Basden said. Basden can now check off one item on his to-do list. Clearing 12 feet, 1 inch in the pole vault at a home dual meet last week, Basden broke Plano’s 46-year-old record in the event. Pretty big stuff for Basden, who has improved on his best vault by almost two feet over the last two weeks. “It was outstanding, one of the greatest feelings I’ve ever had,” Basden said. “I finally made it to what I said I was going to do.” For his accomplishment, Andrew Basden is the Record Athlete of the Week. Basden took a somewhat circuitous route to his record. He did the sprints in track at Plank Junior High in Oswego, but chose to not participate in any sports his freshman year at Oswego East. He moved to Plano, where he had current Reapers football and track coach Brad Kunz as
Photo provided by Plano High School
an English teacher. Basden went out for football as a sophomore, and quickly seemed a logical fit for track as well. “At the combine testing running abilities, he ran one of the fastest 40 times,” Kunz said. “I thought that this kid has a lot of potential. It’s been fun to see him develop as an athlete and a young man.” Coincidentally, Basden had thentrack coach Kristy Zaininger as a substitute teacher the following year, and went out for track. His first time vaulting, Basden cleared 7 feet. His friend Caleb Moody helped teach him how to vault. Basden further learned the nuances by watching YouTube videos of Olympic ath-
letes. “The first thing most people have to get past is the fear of it. If you get high enough you are going completely upside down,” Basden said of the pole vault. “The second part was getting myself inverted. There are a lot of different mechanics.” Basden received a boost this spring with the addition of Wes Baker to the Plano coaching staff. Baker, a 2012 Plano graduate, did the decathlon in college. Baker will vault with Basden at practice. Some nights, they remain at the track past sunset. “It’s so nice to have the support,” Basden said. “Now, when I mess up or get in a bad habit he’ll tell me what I’m
doing or not doing. He can show me first-hand what to do.” Basden now has his sights set on the Class 2A state qualifying mark of 13 feet, and he hopes to not be done flying after that. The son of a mom who served in the Army and a dad who was in the Marine Corps, Basden has always wanted to serve in the military. In junior high, while on a flight to Alabama to visit his dad, Basden had the opportunity to sit in a cockpit. “That’s when I decided I wanted to be a pilot,” Basden said. “I want to be a pilot in the military. I’ve always had respect for what my parents did. That understanding made me want to be a part of it.”
Is there a Shelter agent working for you? Jackie Meier
651 Prairie Pointe, Ste 104 Yorkville, IL 630-553-8909 JMeier@ShelterInsurance.com
We’re your Shield. We’re your Shelter. ®
PREP BASEBALL: PLANO 14, LISLE 4 (5 INN.)
Reapers’ leadoff man reaches base 5 times in their rout of Lions By JOSHUA WELGE jwelge@kendallcountynow.com Levi Campbell broke from Plano’s postgame huddle, his batting helmet still securely on over his long, flowing dark hair. These days, he can’t get hitting off the brain. Campbell, the Reapers’ senior leadoff man, continued a torrid start to his season Tuesday. He went 3-for-3 and reached base five times, catalyst to host Plano’s 14-4 Interstate Eight Conference win over Lisle in five innings. Tyler Ward went 4-for-4 with four runs batted in, Will Benson was 2-for2 with four RBIs and Carlos Martinez was 2-for-3 with an RBI in support of Martinez’s first win of the year for the Reapers (5-8, 2-0). “We were doing a lot of tee work, and you can obviously see that coming to the batting box. It’s a lot of fun,” Campbell said. “Maybe I’m on a lucky streak. Who knows? Everybody gets hot.” He’s hot for sure, and it hardly looks like luck. Campbell entered this week hitting .500 with a 1.135 OPB (on base percentage plus slugging percentage) and seven stolen bases. He hit .583 last week, and didn’t miss a beat Tuesday. Campbell hit a scorching grounder to lead off Plano’s first inning that the Lisle third baseman couldn’t handle. Next time up, Campbell turned on an offering and hit a frozen rope to left field. Lisle’s defenders backed up, and his fourth at bat Campbell dropped down a bunt for an infield hit. “Levi Campbell is the real deal,” Plano coach John Parpet said. “He has great speed, tracks the ball down in
Mark Busch - mbusch@ shawmedia.com
center field. He’s as good a player as I’ve been around, and I’ve been around some good ones.” Crazy thing is, Campbell is a relative newcomer to the Plano diamond. He’s played baseball his whole life, but didn’t play high school baseball his first two years. “At football practice one time, he had the football and he did a jump throw like Derek Jeter,” Parpet said, “and I said ‘If I can ever get you out for baseball, you can be something.’ His wrist and hand strength is just outstanding. And he craves learning about the game.” Campbell noted a big adjustment in his swing from last year to this. “I’m getting a lot more weight on my back foot. That seems to be the key,” Campbell said. “I’m kicking myself a little bit for not going out before but it’s been a fun two years.” Martinez (1-2) had plenty of fun with
all the run support he received. A two-out Plano error in the first inning led to two Lisle runs, but Martinez settled in after that. He struck out the side in the second, and finished with four strikeouts. Not even a torn fingernail and a brief tumble in the dugout could spoil his day. “Errors happen, I’m not too worried about it,” Martinez said. “I know my team has my back, and I need to have those guys having my back. I’m not a strikeout pitcher, everybody knows it. I just throw strikes and put it in play. This win felt good. We haven’t beat Lisle in I don’t know how long.” The errors are a concern to Parpet, though. Plano has made 48 errors in 13 games and made four Tuesday. The Reapers can make the spectacular play, like shortstop Danny Nunez’s diving stop to end the third inning Tuesday. “We’ve been struggling with our infield defense, there’s no hiding it,”
Parpet said. “When we make the routine plays, we know we’ll hit and our pitchers are solid.” The Reapers can definitely hit. They’ve scored 32 runs over the last three games. “Coach [Nathan] Hill, our hitting coach, has given them a philosophy on some things, now they see the result and they love it,” Parpet said. “They’ve taken that calm demeanor and his personality to the plate.” Plano notes: Benson and Campbell each had three hits and Alec Tisberger and Martinez chipped in two RBIs apiece for the Reapers in a 13-8 loss to Ottawa Marquette on April 8. Campbell had three hits and three runs scored, Andy Velazquez three hits and three RBIs and Tisberger three hits and an RBI for the Reapers in a 10-7 win over Streator on April 7. Bryson Schmidt allowed one earned run over 4.2 innings, striking out six.
PREP ROUNDUP
Reapers’ Nathan Shead leads I-8 All-Stars past Little Ten Shootout at Somonauk. Shead hit six 3-pointers for the I-8, BOYS BASKETBALL which won the event for the fourth All-Star Shootout: Plano’s Nathan straight year. Shead led all scorers with 28 points, Shead’s Plano teammates Elileading the Interstate Eight All-Stars jah Maisonet and Anthony Martinez past the Little Ten 114-108 in the 35th scored 12 and eight points, respectiveannual Leland Lions Club All-Star ly, for the I-8 and Sandwich’s Jackson
PLANO RECORD
Smith scored 13 points. 0-2) on April 11. The Little Ten team was led by NewOttawa Marquette 9, Plano 1: Juark’s Cameron Myre, who scored 25 lia Gonzalez had two hits and Kayte points. Thwaites and Decora Jones each doubled for the Reapers on April 8. SOFTBALL Streator 8, Plano 0: Read had two hits Lisle 5, Plano 1: Kaylee Read doubled and Thwaites a double for Plano on and scored the only run for Plano (3-9, April 7.
Thursday, April 13, 2017
Plano senior Levi Campbell takes a cut during the home game against Lisle April 11. Campbell entered this week hitting .500 with a 1.135 OPB (on base percentage plus slugging percentage) and seven stolen bases. “We were doing a lot of tee work, and you can obviously see that coming to the batting box. It’s a lot of fun,” Campbell said. “Maybe I’m on a lucky streak. Who knows? Everybody gets hot.”
SPORTS | Plano Record / KendallCountyNow.com •
Campbell’s simmering season continues
19
Plano Record / KendallCountyNow.com • Thursday, April 13, 2017
20
SPORTS PREP BASEBALL
MINDING THEIR P’S AND Q’S
Area teams adjusting to new pitch count rules, but questions persist By the numbers
By JOSHUA WELGE jwelge@kendallcountynow.com John Parpet can count one time in his three years as assistant coach at Downers Grove South that he had a pitcher throw over 100 pitches. It was current Minnesota Twins prospect Nick Burdi, in front of a flock of major-league scouts. Parpet, now Plano’s head coach, prefers to cap his starters at 90 pitches. Limits like those are now the law in Illinois. For the first time this spring, the IHSA governing body introduced a 105-pitch limit for high school pitchers. That rule, along with guidelines on required rest between outings and the number of allowable pitches for the next appearance, were put in to help prevent young players from getting throwing-related injuries. It followed a rule passed in 2016 by the National Federation of High School Associations mandating that all member associations adopt a pitch count limit by the 2017 season. Oswego coach Joe Giarrante, who pitched collegiately at Kentucky and Eastern Illinois, gets the intent. “If you’re a good coach you can recognize that a kid is struggling; their arm is getting tired, and their body is getting tired,” Giarrante said. “The pitch count is important. It’s a number you can watch and monitor. I get it. Everything is arm maintenance.” There is reason for the concern. A 2015 study done by the American Orthopedic Society of Sports Medicine found that athletes ages 15-19 accounted for 56.9 percent of ulnar collateral ligament reconstruction surgeries, commonly known as Tommy John surgery, between 2007 and 2011. Vermont was the first state to adopt a pitch count, in 2008.
Pitches thrown Days of rest 0-30 0 31-45 1 46-60 2 61-75 3 76-105 4
Steven Buyansky for Shaw Media
Plano pitcher Tyler Ward stretches to make a throw to a Aurora Central batter during a varsity baseball game at Plano High School on March 28. This spring, the IHSA governing body introduced a 105-pitch limit for high school pitchers to help protect young players from throwing-related injuries. Until this year, Illinois had no policy, leaving discretion with coaches and pitchers. It hasn’t always worked out well. Last season, Genoa-Kingston coach Roger Butler came under fire when he let pitcher Brady Huffman throw 167 pitches during a 10-inning game. “There have been a handful of teams we’ve come across where kids’ arms have been abused,” Parpet said, “but I don’t think it’s too bad. It’s been talked up a lot in the media.” To a man, area baseball coaches say the new guidelines have had limited effect on how they manage their staffs. When Parpet was at Downers South, a rule of thumb was for every pitch thrown, a pitcher needed an hour of rest. At Plano he now has a Monday starter, Tuesday starter and Friday starter. Beyond that they “figure it out.” Likewise, Oswego has starters for Monday, Wednesday and Friday
conference games with two to three relievers. Parpet’s offseason pitching program develops the top arms, but also guys like Ricky Bruns. Bruns had never thrown a pitch in his life before this year; he’s thrown 12 innings with two saves this spring. “People are making mountains out of a molehill with this,” Parpet said. “Anybody that is griping about it hasn’t had a plan.” One adjustment that more than one coach noted is the decision-making process and usage of their relief pitchers, factoring in the required rest time depending on pitches thrown. There is also the added administrative work of logging pitch counts on the IHSA website after games. “I don’t think it’s a big deal, but it adds to the tasks,” Yorkville coach Scott Luken said. “The biggest adjustment is with guys that may pitch relief, that we’re getting them
in and out at certain times of the ballgames and make sure we don’t extend their pitch counts.” Sandwich coach Jason VanPelt hasn’t noticed a big effect, but wonders how things will play out when postponed games back up schedules. “I imagine it will hurt smaller schools the most that struggle to get pitchers,” VanPelt said. “We typically stayed around 100 pitches anyway; it’s just now we have to automatically yank them at 105. It kind of handcuffs you a bit. If you throw a guy on Monday and he pitches the whole 105 he can’t even throw a couple innings Friday to close things out.” Parpet is glad the IHSA based its limits on pitches, not innings as Little League does. All pitches, though, are not created equal. When any of Parpet’s pitchers deliver “pressure pitches” (pitches with a full count, pitches with runners in scoring position, etc.) he counts
them as two pitches. He’d like to see the IHSA consider such situations in its pitch count math. “Because that adds stress,” Parpet said. “Even in the big leagues, a guy gets in that position, they muscle up. A kid throwing 100 pitches, it could be the equivalent of 120.” Even if every high school coach follows the rules, it only protects kids’ arms for three months. Over the years the game has seen an explosion of showcases, velocity programs, travel teams and the like. “It’s not like basketball where you can play four games in two days and not blow out your knee. If you have a kid showcasing, throwing to a gun, then throwing four innings for travel, that’s not too good,” Giarrante said. “But I can only control what I can control. These travel programs, there is no governing body.” The consensus, though, seems to be that more attention to the matter is a good step forward. Oswego East coach Matt Engelhardt and his assistant, John Paul Shore, both pitched in high school and remember games where starters went past 150 pitches. Those kinds of war stories, ideally, are left in the past. “As a coach we’ve always had some limits, especially in the preseason,” Engelhardt said. “The rules are designed to protect the kids. We’re all in the same boat. We’re going in the right direction.”