Enterprise 7-5-12

Fire sweeps through Rolf Road homes. See page 3.

SPORTS Duchene tabbed Player of the Year

Celebrating America’s Independence

SCHOOLS Five new admins named to District 202 PAGE 13

PAGE 7

T HE ENTERPRISE Your Complete Source For Plainfield News Since 1887

Volume 124 No. 48

www.enterprisepublications.com

Serving Will and Kendall counties

28 pages

A Different

Route

Village to seek public input on Route 59 corridor

By Sherri Dauskurdas Staff Reporter

W

hether or not the village of Plainfield will transform a key downtown sector for business development remains to be seen, and village officials are hoping to get a viewpoint from residents on the topic.

A BusinessTransition District,being considered for a stretch of Route 59 from Union to Main, has been the topic of discussion at recent meetings of the Village Board, Plan Commission and Hhistorical Preservation Commission.

Proponents are seeking a defined area of homes and buildings to be designated as able to house small businesses. Currently, all business use must go before village officials for approval. Residents say that, without a guarantee that those looking to open offices or storefronts in the Route 59

INSIDE

Thursday, July 5, 2012

75 cents

structures, they are hampered in their ability to sell their properties.

But officials can’t seem to come to an agreement on the issue. While some are in favor of freeing up sales, others hold onto concern over the approval process of potential businesses. They worry about being able to control what types of businesses come in to the area.

Now, the village is turning to residents to see what they have to offer on the topic. As part of a Division Street (Route 59) Visioning project, planning staff are seeking input from residents on the long-term vision for the Route 59 corridor.

Still in its own planning stages, the program is expected to include a variety of sourcing, from surveying and social media to public meetings, to garner the opinions and wishes of homeowners.

The official plan will be up for discussion at the village’s July committee of the whole meeting.

Opinions............................................6 Community Events...........................8 Police Report..................................10 Sports.............................................13 Puzzles............................................20 SUBSCRIBE TODAY — Call (815) 436-2431

Page 2

News

The Enterprise, Thursday, July 5, 2012

Good News, Bad News District 202 officials breathe easier this year, while 2013 budget looms

By Sherri Dauskurdas Staff Reporter

Plainfield School officials are looking at next year’s financial picture with waned enthusiasm.

That’s because the board approved a budget that will better the current year’s operating fund, but leave the district strapped for cash come 2013.

Officials expect the district operating fund to end this fiscal year about $5.1 million better than predicted thanks to tight cost control measures and cost savings.

But that same fund deficit will likely be about $10 million at the end of 2013.which is twice as much as was predicted earlier this year. This deficit is thanks to contract requirements, enrollment costs and a disintegrating state allowance.

Spending is set to drop by about $5.1 million, thanks in part to a $2.6 million reduction in salaries and benefits. New contracts for teachers and support staff froze pay this year, accounting for most of the reduction.

But those same contracts guarantee a 2.55 percent raise for teachers in 2013 and a 2.5 percent raise for support staff.The preliminary budget also proposes a 2.5 percent raise for administrators and non-union support staff. The Board has not yet approved raises for administrators and non-union support staff.

“Kicking the can” down the road has become an all too familiar plan of action, not only for District 202 but for a host of other Illinois districts struggling to meet the demands of their enrollment amid the uncertainty of funding from

the state.

But even the best efforts to control costs are proving unsuccessful, as an anticipated cutback in general state aid will eliminate yet another $4.7 million from the district coffers. And that’s not all. Along with the lower general state aid, District 202 expects to lose $5.1 million in federal grants, about $1.7 million in categorical revenue, and $1.9 million in textbook and tuition fees and other local revenues.

In all, operating fund revenues are expected to be down by about $9.6 million next year, from $242.8 million in 2012 to about $233.2 million in 2013. Operating fund expenses next year are projected at $243.6 million, up from $242.2 million this year.

Where the balance will come from is unclear. Officials say staffing for next year already has been tightly

aligned to projected enrollments, and budgets allow for just an $800,000 staffing contingency in case enrollment does grow and for special education needs.

Additionally, the board has cut school budgets across the district.

Elementary school budgets are down 5 percent, middle school 10 percent and high schools 15 percent.

Leading the efforts to improve

the bottom line will be Angela Smith, who replaced a retiring John Prince as assistant superintendent for business and operations this month. Smith most recently served as director of business services for Oswego District 308, and brings with her a mixture of public and private-sector experience, including five years as a member of the West Aurora School District Board of Education.

The Enterprise, Thursday, July 5, 2012

Page 3

Fire sweeps through Rolf Road homes

By Sherri Dauskurdas Staff Reporter

Drought-like conditions and high winds contributed to a fire which destroyed two homes in the 23600 block of Rolf Road, leaving behind the skeletal remains of what two families once called home.

The blaze began, fire officials report, on the front porch of 23648 Rolf Road, quickly spreading east to a neighboring residence. Calling the first home “a total loss,” fire officials said the flames spread so quickly that firefighters had to focus their efforts on just one home, and prevent further spread of the blaze.

Complicating the firefight was a lack of access to

sufficient water. The homes were in an unincorporated area, where hydrants are not as prevalent, and firefighters were forced to draw water from a nearby pond, and truckin nearly 300,000 gallons, to fight the flames.

Additionally, the entire effort was delayed while Nicor was contacted to shut off a ruptured gas meter on the property, when despite efforts, firefighters couldn’t halt the flames.

No residents were injured in the blaze, and two firefighters sustained minor injuries. Fire officials estimate $700-800,000 damage to both homes.

The Plainfield community has come together to help the families of the Rolf Road fire;

Robin Ambrosia/Enterprise Staff

After the Storm According to ComEd, more than 1,000 residents in Plainfield lost power during Friday night’s powerful storm. Many residents spent weekend cleaning up fallen trees such as this on Round Barn Rd.

Laurie Rickmon, son John and sister Rieta Neu; as well as Don and Kathy Kazak and daughter Samantha.

A fundraising site for the Kazaks has been posted at

http://www.gofundme.com/ sz1k0 with the hopes of raising $10,000 for the family.

A similar site has been set set up at http://www.gofundme. com/plainfieldfire to help

raise money for the Rickmon/ Neu family.

St. Mary Immaculate, 15629 S. Route 59, is also serving as a drop-off site for donated items.

Page 4

The Enterprise, Thursday, July 5, 2012

Affordable Care Act upheld Will County legislators react to Supreme Court decision

By Jonathan Samples Staff Reporter

The U.S. Supreme Court voted 5-4 Thursday to uphold the majority of the Affordable Care Act, including an individual mandate that would require Americans to purchase health insurance or face penalty.

In what is probably the most important Supreme Court decision since Bush v. Gore, the Affordable Care Act, which was passed in 2012, has raised many arguments from both sides of the aisle concerning its constitutionality.

Voyager Media reached out to U.S. and state legislators throughout Will County to hear their reactions to the Supreme Court ruling.

U.S. Representative Judy Biggert (R-13th) “With or without the unpopular health mandate,

the cost of care continues to rise, and it’s up to Republicans and Democrats alike to work across the aisle on solutions. I’m disappointed that the court did not put a stop to the government overreach. But Washington still has a responsibility to fix polices that are raising costs, hurting job creation, siphoning millions from Medicare, and placing an added layer of bureaucracy between patients and their doctors.”

voted 40 times to fully repeal the government takeover of health care, block the individual provisions, or defund certain programs. The question we must ask ourselves now is whether President Obama’s newly designed health care system is feasible.”

U.S. Representative Adam Kinzinger (R-11th)

“Access to quality health care is important for all Illinoisans. I’m particularly interested in how the affirmation of the Affordable Care Act affects changes in Illinois’ Medicaid program and roposed changes in Illinois public pensions systems.”

“Since its passage, the Affordable Care Act has caused deep divisions over its constitutionality. While I respect the ruling of the U.S. Supreme Court, I am extremely disappointed that the court has given unrestricted authority to the federal government to interfere in the personal lives of American families… I have

State Sen. Pat McGuire (D-43rd)

State Sen. Christine Radogno (R-41st) “While the U.S. Supreme Court has settled the legal argument, the debate over whether it is

good policy or not will continue for months. We will be very carefully reviewing the decision for opportunities to reduce any negative impact of the Affordable Care Act and its tax on Illinois citizens. The Senate Republican Caucus has worked to cut costs in the state’s Medicaid program – targeting the waste, fraud and abuse that costs taxpayers hundreds of millions each year.”

Illinois House Minority Leader Tom Cross (R-84th) “We have made tremendous efforts this year in Illinois to reduce our state-run healthcare program, because we could no longer afford to provide the services that were once promised. Today’s Supreme Court decision affirms a federal law that has the potential to pile billions of dollars of additional expenses into our state budget that we cannot afford. We are

Teens visit ranch to gain skills as leaders

By Sherri Dauskurdas Staff Reporter

Last week, four Plainfield East teenagers took part in an intense week of leadership training, thanks to a Colorado initiative.

Plainfield East students Nick Novak, Tyler Graham, Alex Ochenkowski and Brittany Ramos all took a trip to the J. Kyle Braid Leadership Ranch in Villa Grove, Colorado.

The ranch seeks to help high school students between their sophomore and junior years develop the leadership skills necessary to impact the lives of their peers when they return to school in the fall.

The program seeks out already influential teens: those who are involved, engaged and in a position to make a difference. Ochenkowski and Ramos, for example, both are members of a group at PEHS called Teens Touching Lives. The group began the service organization in 2010 as freshmen, volunteering at the Creekside Cares Chili Supper, stocking shelves at a grocery store to sell tickets for Children’s Memorial Hospital, and hosting fundraisers for local families in need.

It’s the first year a Plainfield school has participated in the Braid leadership program, with the

support of PEHS English teacher and school spirit coordinator Meredith Petri.

“I was familiar with the program and its benefits from working with students in Dist. 203, where the students have been attending the ranch for more than a decade,” Petri said. “It was my hope to take advantage of any possible openings with the foundation. Most schools keep their spot once they have it.”

So Petri met with the foundation director, Colleen Braid, last fall about securing a spot for Plainfield East.

Braid is one of the founders of the program, which is named for her son, Kyle, who died in 1994.

Kyle Braid was a sophomore, and a young varsity football player.

During practice, Braid explains, a well-meaning coach told the 16year old to get bigger, stronger, and faster “no matter what it takes.” To do so, Kyle secretly began using anabolic steroids-which can cause uncharacteristic aggressiveness, depression, and manic mood swings. Kyle took his own life later that year.

Convinced that positive impact from peers and a foundation of strong leadership values and good judgment would have influenced their son, Braid and her husband Ken wanted to do something to

make a difference and started the Leadership ranch in 1994. Since then, thousands of teens have gone through the program. Both of the Braids were raised in the Chicago area.

“There is an extensive selection processthatthefoundationstipulates each school should follow in order to pick the four students who will attend the ranch,” Petri said. A six person selection committee made up of teachers and administrators review the entire list of possible candidates. Teachers and coaches nominate sophomore studentathletes prior to winter break, then the selection committee narrows

the pool to 16 students. These students compile their application, which consists of a resume, detailed plans for a community service project, and answers to questions about how they plan to implement their leadership skills over their remaining two years of high school.

Upon returning from winter break, students are pulled for an interview with the selection committee.Based on the results of the interview, four finalists and four alternates are selected and their information is forwarded to the foundation.

After being chosen, the work See RANCH, page 11

encouraging Congress to repeal Obamacare at the federal level as soon as possible, and provide Illinois the ability to administer an efficient Medicaid program.”

State Rep. Larry Walsh Jr. (D-86th) “For the most part I’m pleased with it. I think that the affordable care act is a step in the right direction. I commend the court, especially Chief Justice John Roberts for making that deciding vote to uphold the mandate because it wouldn’t have worked without it. Going forward, there do need to be adjustments, but that’s something that can be worked on going forward.”

The Enterprise, Thursday, July 5, 2012

Annual pro-life movement this week

By Sherri Dauskurdas Staff Reporter

As this year’s presidential candidates argue economics and healthcare, activists in WillCounty and surrounding areas are getting ready for a march of their own, as the antiabortion movement hits the streets.

The 13th annual Face the Truth Tour, organized by the Pro-Life Action League, will be taking to the streets on July 6, in an effort to pass on the pro-life message.

The tour takes van loads of pro-life advocates to busy roadways, where they display four-foot images of pre-born fetuses juxtaposed with fourfoot posters of aborted fetuses.

Without doubt,the controversial protest gets the attention, sometimes to support, and often times, to the dismay of passersby.

This year, protesters will be at the corners of W. Jefferson St. and Larkin Ave in Joliet from 9-10:30 a.m.; the corner of Brook Forest Ave. and Black Road in Shorewood from 11:301 p.m. and at Rt. 59 and Caton Farm Road in Plainfield from 3-4:30 p.m.

Organizers say the large graphic images are an honest and necessary portrayal of

“We respect the responsibility of parents to

educate their children on such issues. That’s why we always place Warning signs several blocks in advance of our display, to allow parents and others to choose an alternate route if they would rather not see the pictures.”

Pro-Life Action League website abortion.

“When people actually see it, when they behold it with their own eyes, then support for abortion really begins to corrode,” Eric Scheidler, executive director of the ProLife Action League, said.

But the organization also said they are sympathetic to those who would rather avoid the protest. Warning signs will be placed in the distance before the intersections, to allow drivers an opportunity to steer clear of the protests if they desire to do so.

“We respect the responsibility of parents to educate their children on such issues,” the league website states. “That’s why we always place Warning signs several blocks in advance of our display, to allow parents and others to choose an alternate route if they would

rather not see the pictures.”

The League credits itself with having closed eight abortion clinics in Chicago and nearly 100 across the country.

“We are teaching,” founder Joe Scheidler said. “We are teaching what abortion is-it’s destroying a nation and destroying our spirit.

It’s anti-American. It’s anti-life.”

The Pro-Life League will be on the streets throughout July.

Other area locations include: 9 to 10:30 a.m. on July 14 at New York Street and Eola Road in Aurora; 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. on July 14 at Washington Street and Ogden Avenue in Naperville; and 3 to 4:30 p.m. on July 14 at Route 59 and New York Street in Aurora.

For more information, visit the Pro-Life Action League website at http://www.prolifeaction. org

Page 5

Page 6

Opinions

The Enterprise, Thursday, July 5, 2012

Opinions printed on this page, whether in Letters to the Editor or in columns, are the opinions of the writer and not necessarily of this newspaper, its publishers, editor or employees.

Only editorials reflect the views of the newspaper.

Letter to the Editor

Property tax penalties unfair June and September are financially stressful months for property owners, who are facing the due dates of property taxes to pay the county treasurer. This is probably the biggest bill the owners pay before anything else, due to a huge penalty on the amount due. There is no escape to avoid the penalty, as it is the law that our legislators passed to punish the property owners for delay. The payment cannot be delayed, by a single day of the due date, even for any unforeseen emergency that is not under one’s control. The penalty is a straight monthly rate of 1.5% which comes to about an 18% yearly rate, which to me, personally, appears totally unfair. We elect the lawmakers to make fair rules with public consideration, not public torture.

This year I learned the hard truth of the above penalty by delaying payment by a couple of days due to some personal emergencies. When I made

the plea for removal or just a reduction of the penalty in the county office, it was flatly rejected, pointing to the law.

Even though, in previous years, I have always paid the taxes on or before time, it did not matter.

My question is why isn’t the penalty interest prorated to give a little relief to the property owners, especially in hard economic times or during some emergencies? If the public is severely punished for a delay in paying property tax bills without any consideration, is there a way we can punish the legislators or the government workers if they delay finishing their jobs on time? Can we make a penalty that comes out of their pockets at the same rate of monthly interest that we are charged for being delayed? I hope the legislators will find fairness to pass that kind of law to caution themselves of their delays.

Prakriti Chakrabarti Plainfield

Letter to the Editor

Quick action after storm Thank you to the Township Highway Commissioner for the immediate action after the Friday, June 29 storm.

Bruce Grueben Weller Subdivision

What’s on your mind?

You are invited to use the Opinions page of The Enterprise to express your opinions about matters that affect our community.

E-mail your letter to the Editorial Department at sweditor@ enterprisepublications.com; send your letter to The Enterprise, P.O. Box 1613, Plainfield, IL 60544; or drop off your letter at our office at 23856 S. Route 59. For more information, call (815) 4362431.

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Illustrated Opinions

The Enterprise, Thursday, July 5, 2012

From Years Past Five years ago…2007 • The District 202 Board of Education moved forward with plans for a transportation facility in the district — this time, in a new location.

The board approved issuing up to $25 million in bonds to purchase and/or alter and equip a facility to house buses.

The board did not specify how the bonds would be paid for.

Originally, the district planned to build a new facility on a 40-acre site at 143rd Street and Route 30.

Ten years ago… 2002 • As Plainfield School District 202 began eminent domain proceedings to obtain property at 709 N. Division St. for a Central Elementary School parking lot, district representatives claimed they had received “bad press.”

School board vice president Mike Kelly said he thought the press had wrongly portrayed the district as a “big bully.”

“We are in a way, that’s true,” Kelly said.“But we’ve tried very hard not to be.”

Fifteen years ago… 1997 • If area planners’ dreams came true, bicyclists would one day be able to pedal their way from Lake Michigan to the Mississippi River and back.

A portion of the proposed gigantic loop, known as the Grand Illinois Trail, would wind along the DuPage River right through Plainfield Township.

“We were very excited when this concept came up,” said John Vann, Plainfield Park District superintendent of parks and planning. “We are pretty confident we can run this within the next 10 years, at least in Plainfield Township.”

Twenty-five years ago… 1987 • The Enterprise editorialized, “The state legislature has gone home for a few weeks, having concluded its mind-boggling 85th session.

Gov. James Thompson didn’t get his income tax increase. In fact, he got very little for his plate.

What transpired were many solid bits of legislation, but no chance to loosen a very tight state budget.

Many are waiting to see just where the governor will make his moves to “save the state.”

Maybe, instead of just making cuts, the governor should call in all of the top players from both parties and, while the spotlights are dimmed, begin to develop a positive plan of action so that when the 86th General Assembly meets we will get a fair and equitable budget. The fat will really be removed from state government, leaving a budget that all can live with and be proud of.”

Thirty years ago… 1982 •The District 202 Board of Education approved a change in the penalty for possession of drugs from a five-day to a 10-day external suspension on a first offense. School officials noted that alcoholic beverages would be considered the same as a drug. The rule would apply to students attending Indian Trail Junior High School and Plainfield High School.

A second offense for drug possession would result in an immediate recommendation for expulsion, and a first offense at Indian Trail would carry over and count on the student’s record in high school.

D. 202 Board of Education approves five new admins Five new administrators will join District 202 following approval of their appointment by the Board of Education at its June 25, 2012 regular meeting.

Angela Smith, who is currently the Director of Business Services for Oswego District 308 will be District 202’s new Assistant Superintendent for Business and Operations, starting July 1, 2012.

Smith replaces John Prince, who is retiring after 38 years in education. Smith brings a unique mixture of public and privatesector experience – including five years as a member of the West Aurora School District Board of Education.

Smith started her professional career in 1990 as a trust administrator at Castle Bank, and four years later became a trust officer. She held that position for two years and then was vice president and trust officer from 1996-2000.

She took time off until 2009 when she joined District 308 as its Finance Manager until 2011.

Since 2011, Smith has served as Oswego’s Director of Business Services. She has had wide-ranging responsibility in the latter role for numerous functions,including food services, attendance boundaries and transportation.

That breadth of experience was very appealing,said Superintendent of Schools Dr. John Harper.

“Our Business and Operations departmentalsoincludesnumerous services so having someone who has and can continue to juggle multiple responsibilities will help us better serve the community,” Harper said.

Smith said her ongoing service as an elected official gives her a special perspective in her role as an administrator because she gets to see most issues from all sides.

“Being a sitting Board member makes me a better administrator, and being an administrator makes me a better Board member,” Smith said.

The Board of Education also approved appointing three new assistant directors to the Student Services department, which oversees all special Angela Smith education.

The new directors are part of a restructuring of the Student S e r v i c e s department, w h i c h eliminated two yearlong advisors; a 100-day Cheril Phillips private facility administrator; and five special education administrators (one at Plainfield Academy and fourdistrict-wide positions.) The Student Services departmentnow Dee Graves has six fewer administrators.

• Joe Schimmel will serve as Assistant Director for Emotional Disabilities.

Schimmel started his e d u c a t i o n Joe Schimmel career in 1999 as a special education teacher at Bloom High School in Chicago Heights, and as a technical assistant supervisor with the Leyden Area Special Tyler Broders Education Co-

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Page 7

1887-1934 (USPS 177-160) Published By Voyager Enterprise, Inc. P.O. Box 1613 23856 W. Andrew Rd., Plainfield, IL 60585

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op.

From 2008-2009, he was Special Education Department Chair for Leyden District 212.Schimmel then served as Principal for the Bloom Township Alternative School for a year, and as principal of Bloom Trail High School the last two years.

• Cheril Phillips will be the new Assistant Director for Elementary Programs. Phillips began her education career in education in 1984 as a special education teacher in the Peoria School District.

From 1985-1995, Phillips taught special education in Joliet District 86 before being named the Special Education Coordinator there in 1995. Phillips served for four years in that role, and joined District 202 in 1999 as a special education administrator. She has worked in numerous District 202 schools at all levels.

• Deborah (Dee) Graves will be the new Assistant Director for Transition and Private Placement.

Graves came to education from the private sector about seven years ago when she joined District 202 as a vocational coordinator for Plainfield North High School.

Before working at PNHS, Graves was an administrator of human resources from 2000-2004 for Blistex, Inc. • Finally, the Board approved the appointment of Lakewood Falls Elementary School fifth grade teacher Tyler Broders as the Interim Assistant Principal at Grand Prairie Elementary School. Broders temporarily replaces current Assistant Principal Julianne Palmer.

Broders started his education career teaching sixth grade in Rialto, California from 2003-2005, then came to District 202 and Lakewood Falls in 2006.He has also served as both the sophomore girls basketball coach from 2007 to now, and assistant varsity baseball coach from 2008 to now, at Plainfield High School – Central Campus.

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Page 8

Community Events

The Enterprise, Thursday, July 5, 2012

ONGOING Plainfield Art League Juried Member Exhibit. Starting July 2nd and running until July 30 at the District 202 Administration building at 15732 Howard Street in Plainfield. Watercolors, oils, mixed media, acrylics, and drawings by PAL members will all be featured in the second floor gallery. The theme for this exhibit is “Independence.”Award winners will receive ribbons at the monthly art league member meetings held on the second Wednesday of every month, from 7 p.m. to 8:45 p.m. at the Plainfield Public Library – 15025 S Illinois Street, Plainfield.

ESL writing and grammar practice. Mondays at 10 a.m. at the Plainfield Library. If you want to practice writing English and English grammar, come to this relaxed group to meet other multi-lingual adults and an English-speaking tutor. The group meets in the lower-level bay area of the library. During the summer, a teen will be available to read to the young children of any participants.

ESL conversation club.

Thursdays at 6:30 p.m. and Fridays at 10 a.m. at the Plainfield Public Library. This club is for any adult whose first language is not English. Come practice your speaking skills while learning about American culture.

ESL reading club. Tuesdays at 10 a.m. at the Plainfield Public Library. If you want to learn new words, practice your pronunciation, and become more fluent in English, come to this relaxed weekly group Meet other multi-lingual adults and an English-speaking coordinator to read aloud. Choose your own level and use newspapers, magazines, or books to start reading with more confidence.

Main Street Museum. Open 1 to 4 p.m. Saturdays at the Plainfield Historical Society, 23836 W. Main St. in Plainfield.

Free admission. Group tours available by appointment.

Call 815-436-4073 for more information.

Overeaters Anonymous.

Sundays from 7:30 to 8:30 p.m. at Plainfield Congregational United Church of Christ, at the corner of Rte. 59 and Fraser Rd. Meeting is held in the lounge room. No dues, fees or weigh-ins. Everyone welcome! www.oa.org.

Tai Chi and Westfield Walkers.

Senior Services Center of Will County wants to keep seniors healthy and living independently as long as possible.

Tai Chi is offered here at the center on Tuesday’s and other locations throughout the county.

This is a 12-week program. Join us on Mondays and Wednesdays as we walk the mall. Not only do you get the benefit of walking twice a week, once a month we offer a free breakfast at Panera and an opportunity to hear a speaker provided by Provena Health. You can take a 12-week

Tai Chi class for a $20 suggested donation, and you can join our Westfield Walkers Club for $25 per year. For more information please give us a call at 815-7239713.

Anything Grows Garden Club of Plainfield. 7 p.m. at Plainfield Congregational Church, 24020 W. Fraser Road. Join us for “Garden Talk.” We meet every fourth Wednesday of the month.

Guest speakers, garden projects or day trips are scheduled for every meeting. Dues are $15 for a single membership or $20 for a family membership. For more information contact Anita at awgerardy@sbcglobal.net.

Plainfield Art League Demos. Plainfield Art League holds their monthly art demo every second Wednesday of each month from 7 to 8:45 p.m. in the large meeting room, downstairs at the Plainfield Public Library unless otherwise noted - please check website for details/topics.

The Plainfield Library is located on Illinois Street in downtown Plainfield. Art League demos are free and open to the public so come join us and bring a friend! For more info or to become a member, visit www. plainfieldartleague.org, email info@plainfieldartleague.org or call 815-556-9278.

Birth after cesarean. 12-2 p.m. and 7-9 p.m. meetings the first Monday of the month in Romeoville. Come for encouragement, supports, and information on planning for your next birth. Babes-in-arms are always welcome. Call Melanie in Romeoville at 253-861-5897 for more information, or e-mail VBACesarean@aol.com.

Silent Prayer hour. The members of the St. Mary Immaculate Military Ministry invite everyone to devote an hour together to pray for the dedicated individuals who wear the uniforms of our country.

Please join us on the 3rd Friday of each month from 6 to 7 p.m. in the St. Mary Immaculate Parish Adoration Chapel for an hour of silent prayer for a soldier (or the soldier’s family). Use the North Wing entrance to the church at 15629 South Rt. 59 in Plainfield. We also invite you to submit a name (s) to be added to our prayer intention list. Please contact Maria Prekop at 312-2596851 or Ann Eckhorn at 815-2549656.

Young Widows Support Group.

Meets once per month at varying locations in the Plainfield/Joliet area. Open to those who have lost a partner and are ready to begin healing and moving forward in life by sharing their experiences with others. Children are welcome.

For more information please contact Amanda at widowswear stilettoschicagosw@yahoo.com “Going Green” Electronics Recycling Project.

In cooperation with Vintage Tech Recyclers, Wheatland Township

will continue its recycling of electronic equipment for township residents. If you have any items of question, please call to see if they will be accepted.

All items can be dropped off at the Township office, 31 W 236 91st St. in Naperville, Monday thru Friday between 9 a.m. and 4 p.m. For more information, contact Jay Madalon at (630) 851-3952 or e-mail to: JayM@ WheatlandTownship.com.

Circle of Hope Al-Anon Family Group. Sundays at 1:302:30 p.m. at Joliet Alano Club (back entrance), 265 Republic Ave. in Joliet. This on-going support group with no fees or dues is for all families and friends of problem drinkers, especially those who are affected today by growing up in an alcoholic home. For more information contact Al--Anon/Alateen 815773-9623 or visit www.niafg.org for more information.

Food Pantry. To better serve your needs, Power Connection’s Large Food Pantry will now be open on the second and fourth Mondays of the month from 1 to 6:45 p.m. For a $20 donation you can shop the aisles of canned/boxed goods, drinks, desserts, snacks, breads, fruits & vegetables. There is no income verification and all residents of Illinois are welcome. The Clothing Pantry is open from 9 a.m. to 6:45 p.m. on those Mondays. Donations accepted Monday-Thursday, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Call (630) 679-6899 or visit www.thepowerconnection. org for more information/ services available.

JULY 6 New catalog help session.

10 a.m. at the Plainfield Library.

Drop in to the computer lab for a brief demo of the new library catalog. Learn how to find materials, place holds, and check your account information.

JULY 8 St. Joseph Academy Benefit Picnic. 1 to 9 p.m. at St. Joe’s.

Come check out ALTUS. Four longtime friends from Plainfield brought their love of different music styles (alternative, metal, and classic rock) together with their musical talents to create their unique sound ALTUS! They will be playing from 2 to 4 p.m.

Then from 5 to 9 p.m. join us for JUNKYARD DAWGS. Come enjoy some delicious food from :Louisiana Barbeque, Big Wheel, Raffles and more – for additional information please contact St. Joseph Academy at 815-7234567.

JULY 9 Parachute play. 10:30 a.m. at the Plainfield Library. Children aged 3-5 with a caregiver will have fun playing with a large parachute. Sign up for this program at http://plainfield.lib. il.us.

Stories and more. 1:30 p.m. at the Plainfield Library.

This program is for kids going into first through third grades

who like storytelling, puppets, singing, movement, and drawing.

Bring an oversized t-shirt to protect your clothes while doing art. Sign up for this program at http://plainfield.lib.il.us Green Village Series: Backyard Beekeeping. 7 p.m. at the Plainfield Library.

From protective gear and tools to harvesting honey, learn what you can do to help bees flourish this summer. The Green Village Series is in partnership with the Village of Plainfield. Sign up for this program at http://plainfield. lib.il.us

JULY 10 What you never knew about fingers, forks, and chopsticks. 10:30-11:30 a.m. at the Plainfield Library. Get a passport and take a tour of eating history to see when wiping your hands on the tablecloth was considered good manners, then have a Stone Age sandwich.

Smores will be served. For ages 8-12. Sign up for this program at http://plainfield.lib.il.us

JULY 11 Plainfield Art League’s July Demo and Member Meeting.

7 to 9 p.m. informal Plein Air outing at Settler’s Park, behind the Plainfield Village Hall. Be sure to bring your sketchbooks, canvases, cameras etc. Plainfield Art League’s demos are free and open to the public, so come and bring a friend. PAL’s demos are held on the second Wednesday of every month so be sure to check our website for details and updates. For more information, or to become a member of Plainfield Art League, visit www. plainfieldartleague.org, email info@plainfieldartleague.org, or call us at 815-556-9278.

Mobile Workforce Center.

9:30 a.m. and 1 p.m. at the Plainfield Public Library. The Mobile Workforce Center will be in the Route 59 parking lot behind the library from 9:30 a.m. to noon, and 1-3:30 p.m. to provide support people looking for a job. These services are free and open to all adults.

Hungry, Hungry, Hunger Games book discussion.

1 p.m. at the Plainfield Library.

Don’t go hungry at this book discussion for the Hunger Games trilogy. Enjoy a Hunger Gamesthemed treat at each meeting.

This discussion will be on the second book in the series. Sign up for this program at http:// plainfield.lib.il.us.

Art in the park. 2 p.m. at the Plainfield Public Library. Put on

your old clothes and come to the library’s “park” to do art projects with various media. For ages 3-6.

Family Movies. 6 p.m. at the Plainfield Public Library. Enjoy freshly-popped popcorn and the movie Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory (G).

JULY 12 Traveling World of Reptiles.

11 a.m. at the Plainfield Public Library. Come see Dave DiNaso as he brings an entertaining, upclose, live, and educational look at reptiles. Register each child and adult attending. Sign up for this program at http://plainfield. lib.il.us.

Tea Time. 11 a.m. at Gourmet Junction, 24030 W. Lockport Street, Plainfield. Come to Gourmet Junction for an iced tea tasting. Try a variety of iced teas, and learn about the origins and history of tea.

Traveling World of Reptiles.

1 p.m. at the Plainfield Public Library. Come see Dave DiNaso as he brings an entertaining, upclose, live, and educational look at reptiles. Register each child and adult attending. Sign up for this program at http://plainfield. lib.il.us.

LinkedIn. 7 p.m. at the Plainfield Public Library. Learn how to use LinkedIn as a resource for professional networking.

In this hands-on class, create a free account, set up your profile, and learn how to connect with your colleagues. We will also discuss how to search for jobs, join groups that match your interests, and follow your target companies. Participants must have a current email account prior to attending this class and should bring a copy of their resume. Sign up for this program at http://plainfield.lib.il.us.

Family Recess. 7-8 p.m. at Streams Park. Take a break from chores, duties, and stress to enjoy organized backyard games and activities with the Plainfield Park District. Event will be canceled in the event of inclement weather.

A novel idea book discussion. 7 p.m. at the Plainfield Public Library. A monthly book discussion for adults, featuring thoughtprovoking fiction as well as nonfiction. Pick up the next title at the Reference Desk.

JULY 13 Computer help for seniors.

10 a.m. at the Plainfield Public See CALENDAR, page 9

The Enterprise, Thursday, July 5, 2012

CALENDAR Continued from page 8 Library. Receive extra help with your computer questions. Learn how to search the internet, create an email account, create a word document, or improve other skills on the computer. Sign up for this program at http:// plainfield.lib.il.us Sizzling Summer Movie.

1 p.m. at the Plainfield Public Library. The romantic story of a young mother who arrives at a French village and opens a small chocolaterie. The chocolate quickly begins to change the lives of the townspeople. Sign up for this program at http:// plainfield.lib.il.us Movies in the park. 8 p.m. at the Richard A. Rock Amphitheater in Settlers’ Park.

Bring some popcorn and grab your lawn chairs to watch “Rio” (2011, G, 96 min.) under the stars. For up-to-date inclement weather information, check www.plainfield-il.org the day of the movie.

JULY 16 Brown Bag Teen Writer’s Group. 1-2 p.m. at the Plainfield Public Library. Bring stories, poems, and a sack lunch to this writing group. Drinks and dessert provided. For grades 6-12. Sign up for this program at http://plainfield.lib.il.us.

Soup Opera. 1:30 p.m. at the Plainfield Public Library.

Kids aged 4-10 are invited to hear Jim Gill’s hilarious spiel read aloud. Then, don a hat, reenact the opera, and do the Silly Dance Contest to Jim Gill’s accompaniment. Sign up for this program at http://plainfield.lib. il.us.

JULY 17 Teen Crafts. 10-11:30 a.m. at the Plainfield Public Library.

Amy Alessio and Katie LaMantia will show teens how to knit an I-Cord and finish by making a pompom cupcake to take home.

For grades 6-12. Sign up for this program at http://plainfield.lib. il.us.

JULY 19 Get to know your Nook. 6 p.m. at Barnes & Noble, 12700 S. Illinois Route 59, Plainfield. If you own a Nook or are thinking of getting one, attend this informational session to learn how to shop for eBooks, lend them to a friend, and get free samples. Plainfield Library staff will explain how to download library eBooks and answer questions.

Tricounty Writer’s Guild.

7 p.m. at the Plainfield Public Library. A writer’s group, partnered with the Plainfield Library. This group meets the third Tuesday of every month to discuss writing and share ideas.

Interested adults are welcome.

JULY 18 Baking basics for teens.

10-11 a.m. at the Plainfield Public Library. Amy Alessio and her son Joshua will teach baking techniques including tips on sanitation, substitution, developing recipes, and more.

Audience members will practice cutting patry and other kitchen basics, and make a mini dessert from storebought components.

For grades 6-12. Sign up for this program at http://plainfield.lib. il.us.

Job Club. Noon at the Plainfield Public Library. Job seekers and career changers are welcome to come network, share, and learn form guest speakers in a friendly and helpful atmosphere. The topic for this session is “Using Social Media to Advance Your Career,” presented by Vonn Helwig, OfficeTeam. Bring your lunch, dessert is provided. Sign up for this program at http:// plainfield.lib.il.us.

Concerts in the park. 7:30 p.m. at the Richard A. Rock Amphitheater in Settlers’ Park. Grab your lawn chairs or blankets and come to Downtown Plainfield to see Mr. Myers play Caribbean music for all ages. For more information about the concert, visit www. mrmyers.com. For up-to-date inclement weather information, check www.plainfield-il.org the day of the concert.

Family Bingo. 11 a.m. to noon at the Plainfield Public Library.

Bingo games for the whole family to play. Register each child and each adult attending. Sign up for this program at http://plainfield. lib.il.us.

Family Recess. 7-8 p.m. at Mather Woods.Take a break from chores, duties, and stress to enjoy organized backyard games and activities with the Plainfield Park District. Event will be canceled in the event of inclement weather.

JULY 20 Teddy Bear Picnic. 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Plainfield Public Library. Bring a teddy bear and your lunch to the library for a picnic.Weather permitting, this event will be held outside. Sign up for this program at http:// plainfield.lib.il.us.

JULY 21 MACon. 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Plainfield Public Library.The first ever anime convention at the library boasts karaoke, a cosplay fashion show, a screening of the anime “Summer Wars,” and a presentation about Japan from author James Kennedy. For grades 6-12. Sign up for this program at http://plainfield.lib.il.us.

party that only a mad hatter could throw. Come to the party dressed as your favorite Alice in Wonderland character. For children in grades 2-5. Sign up for this program at http://plainfield. lib.il.us.

JULY 24 Music is so delicious. 11:15 a.m. at the Plainfield Public Library. Make music and listen to songs about your favorite foods.

For ages 6-8. Sign up for this program at http://plainfield.lib. il.us.

Family Bingo. 6 p.m. at the Plainfield Public Library. Bring the whole family to come play a few rounds of bingo. Sign up for this program at http://plainfield. lib.il.us.

JULY 25 Family movie. 2 p.m. at the Plainfield Public Library. Enjoy freshly popped popcorn and watch the movie Ratatouille (G).

Friends of the Library Meeting. 7 p.m. at the Plainfield Public Library. The Friends of the Library meet to plan events and programs in support of the Library. Join other community minded citizens in this volunteer group.

JULY 23

JULY 26

Mad Hatter Tea Party. 10:30 a.m. to noon at the Plainfield Public Library. Come to a tea

Parachute Play. 10:30-11 a.m. at the Plainfield Public Library.

Children aged 3-5 will enjoy

Page 9

fun playing games with a large parachute. Adult caregiver must attend with the child. Sign up for this program at http://plainfield. lib.il.us.

Family Recess. 7-8 p.m. at Northwest Community Park.

Take a break from chores, duties, and stress to enjoy organized backyard games and activities with the Plainfield Park District.

Event will be canceled in the event of inclement weather.

JULY 27 Annual Murder Mystery.

3-4 p.m. performances at the Plainfield Public Library.Plainfield teens will perform a murder mystery play appropriate for the whole family. Register each family member attending. Sign up for this program at http:// plainfield.lib.il.us.

Movies in the park. 8 p.m. at the Richard A.Rock Amphitheater in Settlers’ Park. Bring some popcorn and grab your lawn chairs to watch “Mr. Popper’s Penguins” (2011, PG, 94 min.) under the stars. For up-to-date inclement weather information, check www.plainfield-il.org the day of the movie.

JULY 28 Annual Murder Mystery.

10-11 a.m. and 1:30-2:30 p.m. performances at the Plainfield See CALENDAR, page 12

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Police and Fire

The Enterprise, Thursday, July 5, 2012

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The following items were compiled from the official reports of the Plainfield Police Department.

Appearing in the police blotter does not constitute a finding of guilt, only a court of law can make that determination.

Nora Graham, 34, 13416 S. Naperville Road, Plainfield, was arrested on June 16 at 2 p.m. at 13521 S. Route 59 for retail theft and criminal trespass to real property.

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Samina Kiani, 43, 11822 S. Heritage Meadows Drive,

Plainfield, was arrested on June 19 at 12:56 p.m. W. Lockport and S. Van Dyke Road for no seatbelt/ child seat.

Mariana Matamoros, 27, 24205 W. Hazelcrest Drive, Plainfield, was arrested on June 25 at 9:41 p.m. on W. Hazelcrest Drive and S. Route 59 for suspended/revoked driver’s license.

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Brian Daker, 30, 26752 Lindengate Circle, Plainfield, was arrested on June 14 at 7:48 p.m. on Main and Mill

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for no valid driver’s license and hit and run.

John Sullivan, 49, 15512 Lakeview Drive, Manhattan, was arrested on June 20 at 1:04 p.m. on W. Fraser Road and S. Route 59 for improper use of registration.

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Sabrina Johnson, 30, 1720 Arbor Lane, Crest Hill, was arrested on June 22 at 8:09 p.m. on S. Lily Cache Road and S. Lincoln Highway for operating a vehicle with suspended registration/no insurance.

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Shannon Parenti, 39, 16138 S. Dan O’Connell Drive, Plainfield, was arrested on June 23 at 11:10 p.m. on S. Fox River and W. Lockport for no seatbelt/child set.

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Christian Glazener,41,24152 W. Walnut Circle, Plainfield, was arrested on June 25 at 12:52 p.m. in the 13000 block of S. Route 59 for robbery, all other disorderly conduct, flee or attempting to elude a peace officer, possession of controlled substance and resisting/ obstructing a peace officer.

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William Vargas, 46, 1903 Brier Glen Drive, Plainfield, was arrested on June 15 at 8:33 p.m. on S. Lily Cache Road and S. Lincoln Highway for DUI/ drugs, illegal transportation/ possession of alcohol by a driver, possession of less than 30 grams of cannabis and possession of drug equipment.

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Jason Racz, 24, 7419 Rosewind Drive, Plainfield, was arrested on June 16 at 1:57 a.m. on W. Fort Beggs Drive and S. Route 59 for DUI/alcohol.

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Schools

The Enterprise, Thursday, July 5, 2012

Page 11

Plainfield Central High School bookkeeper wins Niehus Award Plainfield High School – Central Campus bookkeeper Audrey Stein is the winner of the 2012 Walter G. and Juanita F. Niehus Award.

The Niehus Award was established in 1986 to honor the legacies of former District 202 Superintendent of Schools Walter Niehus and his wife, respected former teacher Juanita Niehus.

It is given each year to either certified personnel or noncertified staff and support staff members, nominated by their peers, who show extraordinary commitment to district students, parents and employees. The Plainfield Foundation for Excellence administers the Niehus award.

Stein is the 27th recipient of the Niehus Award, which has been presented annually since the award’s inception. She received the award at the June 25, 2012 District 202 Board of Education meeting.

Foundation Chair Carla Erdey presented Stein with the award, and praised her notable

volunteer efforts for the schools that her children attended, and the community.

The first of Stein’s five sons enrolled at Grand Prairie Elementary School in 1973, and the last of her sons graduated from PHSCC in 2003. All five also attended Indian Trail Middle School.

During that 30 years, Stein supported the three schools’ parent groups, serving on all manner of committees and programs and projects, most especially the student plays and musicals – but almost always behind the scenes.

“I am not the kind of person who can get people’s attention, but I can help keep everything organized,” Stein said. And, she continues supporting the school’s student theater program even though her own kids are long gone.

“Someone early on helped me with my kids, and I said I wish I could do something to thank that person,” Stein recalled. “She told me, ‘Do something to help someone else down the road,’

and I have lived my life by that,” she said.

“Like many true leaders, Audrey kept her light hidden under a basket so that the students and others could shine more brightly,” Erdey said.

Stein started working for PHSCC in 1996 as a substitute secretary, and then in 1998 as a bookkeeper.

She also operated a day care facility in her home for 21 years before coming to District 202, worked part-time as a tax preparer for about six years, and even took pictures of kids with Santa Claus and the Easter Bunny at an area mall for about five years.

“It’s funny that all of my professional experience revolves around kids and money,” Stein said. “(Stein) is a tremendous advocate for students,” wrote Pauline Herbst, one of Stein’s coworkers and one of her nominators for the Niehus Award.

Stein said she enjoys helping young people, especially those

RANCH

complex, team-based ropes course, group whitewater rafting, and paintball.

“This isn’t normal paintball,” Graham explained. “You have to work together as a team, because one person has the shield and the other had the paintballs.”

The entire experience was designed to teach students the importance they each play in the lives of others around them. Each week, a group of about 20 teens, segregated by gender, participate in the experience, which Graham called transforming.

“You use everything you learn in the classroom, and you begin to realize the effect you have on tons of other people,” he said.

“Everything they do there is really

cool,” he added. “You are in the middle of nowhere.You wake up to a mountain. It’s amazing.”

Graham is a wrestler and varsity football player for East, as well as a math team member and a member of a leadership group at the school.

He said the week at the Braid ranch has inspired him to start a

Continued from page 4 continued for the four students, Petri explained.

“As part of preparing for their time at the ranch the students met on Wednesday mornings and worked through a leadership training book together with 2012 grad, Tom Vachon, and myself,” she said.

A week at the ranch includes about 30 hours of classroom time, where students learn and discuss leadership, life skills, health and well-being. The importance of partnerships, support, and camaraderie prepare them for the week’s activities, which include a

Community Coffees slated for 2012-13 District 202 residents are invited and encouraged to attend three “Community Coffees with the Superintendent” scheduled for the 2012-2013 school year.

The Coffees will be held from 8:30 to 10 a.m. Saturday, September 15 and December 8, 2012; and February 9, 2013 at the district administrative center, 15732 Howard Street, Plainfield.

The Coffees are a popular way to meet and get information from District 202 Superintendent of Schools

Dr. John Harper, key district administrators and Board of Education members. The Coffees are free and registration is not required.

Attendees “set” each Coffee’s agenda through their questions.

Community members may ask about and discuss any appropriate subject, as time allows.

The Community Coffees are a unique opportunity to talk directly with the “Chief Executive Officer” of District 202, which is the fourth-largest school district in Illinois.

Submitted Photo

Audrey Stein (left), bookkeeper at Plainfield High School -- Central Campus accepts the Walter G. and Juanita F. Niehus Award from Carla Erdey, Chairperson of the Plainfield Foundation for Excellence. The Niehus Award honors District 202 staff members who show extraordinary commitment to students, parents and staff.

The Foundation administers the award for the Niehus family.

new to high school, so that they can enjoy what is naturally a very exciting – if sometimes confusing – time in their lives.

“I take from people and learn from people who are positive, and I want to help others. I enjoy that,” Stein said.

group for student athletes against steroid and substance abuse.

Additionally, all the PEHS students are considering a group that promotes clean, fun parties for teens, and takes the message of a drug-free, healthy environment to neighboring middle schools. Other school groups have gone back to their home schools to coordinate

drug awareness campaigns, antibullying initiatives,and support local non-profits through fundraisers and community service.

“We need to show who we are, and be an example to them,” Graham said. “These messages are taken a lot different when they are coming from kids rather than from adults.”

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The Enterprise, Thursday, July 5, 2012

CALENDAR Continued from page 9 Public Library. Plainfield teens will perform a murder mystery play appropriate for the whole family. Register each family member attending. Sign up for this program at http://plainfield. lib.il.us.

JULY 30 Senior Trip to Starved Rock.

The bus will leave from the east parking lot of Wheatland Salem Church at 10 a.m. Arrival time will be around 11:15 a.m. The buffet runs from 12 to 1 p.m., and a “Tribute to the Stars” matinee show runs from 1 to 2:45 p.m. with an intermission. If we leave at 3:!5 p.m., we’ll arrive back at the church about 4:30 p.m. The “tribute” show will be Patsy Cline.

The cost for the trip is $32 per person. Please feel free to invite friends, neighbors, and family.

All ages are welcome. If you are interested in going on the trip, please pay $32 at the June luncheon or drop it off at the Wheatland Township office, 31 W 236 91st St. in Naperville. If you have questions please call the Township office at 630-851-3952.

Brown Bag Teen Writers’ Group. 1-2 p.m. at the Plainfield Public Library. Bring you stories and poems to share while eating your sack lunch. Drinks and dessert provided. For grades 6-12.

Sign up for this program at http:// plainfield.lib.il.us.

Stories and more. 1:30-2:30 p.m.at the Plainfield Public Library.

This program is for kids going into first through third grade who like storytelling, puppets, singing, movement, and drawing. Bring an oversized t-shirt to protect clothes while doing art. Sign up for this program at http://plainfield.lib. il.us.

Literacy DuPage Tutor Classes. 6-9 p.m. at the Naperville Public Library, 95th Street, Naperville. Help a neighbor read, write, speak, and understand English better by training as a tutor. Tutors need not be experienced in teaching or be bilingual but must be over

18 years old, have graduated from high school, and be fluent in English. Receive comprehensive training in a series of workshops, then meet with a learner for two hours a week. There is a $25 fee to cover a portion of the cost of the training materials. Contact Literacy DuPage at 630-416-6699 if you’d like to become an adult literacy volunteer.

Courthouse Finds: using court documents in your family tree. 7-8:30 p.m. at the Plainfield Public Library.

Courthouses are great resources for personal family histories.

Probate files, chancery cases, land sales,and lawsuits are just a handful of the types of records one can find at their local courthouse. Tina Beaird will offer tips and tricks for identifying and securing these records. Sign up for this program at http://plainfield.lib.il.us.

JULY 31 Kids Olympics: Riddles, Rhymes, Recipes, and Races.

10:30 a.m. to noon at the Plainfield Public Library. Three to six year olds and their adult caregivers will ring in the London Summer Olympic Games with riddles, rhymes, and races, such as the Hey Diddle Diddle Relay and Humpty Dumpty Wall Fall. Receive healthy recipes for healthy bodies. Each child will get a color-coded sticker to determine their relay team.

Sign up for this program at http:// plainfield.lib.il.us.

AUGUST 1 Hungry, Hungry, Hunger Games book discussion. 1 p.m. at the Plainfield Library. Don’t go hungry at this book discussion for the Hunger Games trilogy.Enjoy a Hunger Games-themed treat at each meeting.This discussion will be on the third book in the series.

Sign up for this program at http:// plainfield.lib.il.us.

Literacy DuPage Tutor Classes. 6-9 p.m. at the Naperville Public Library, 95th Street, Naperville. Help a neighbor read, write, speak, and understand English better by training as a tutor. Tutors need not be experienced in teaching or be bilingual but must be over 18 years old, have graduated from high school, and be fluent in English. Receive comprehensive training in a series of workshops, then meet with a learner for two hours a week. There is a $25 fee to cover a portion of the cost of the training materials. Contact Literacy DuPage at 630-416-6699 if you’d like to become an adult literacy volunteer.

AUGUST 2 Family bingo. 2 p.m. at the Plainfield Public Library. Bingo games for the whole family to play. Register each child and each adult attending. Sign up for this program at http://plainfield.lib. il.us.

AUGUST 6 Butterflies, wildflowers, and Becky. 2 p.m. at the Plainfield Public Library. Outreach staff members will booktalk the Monarchs (K-2), Bluestems (grades 3-5), and the Rebecca Caudills (grades 4-8), all lists of Illinois award nominees. Parents and children are welcome to attend.

AUGUST 8 Annual Volunteer ThankYou Event. 6:30 p.m. at the Plainfield Public Library. Library volunteers are invited to attend a coffee and cake reception in their honor.There will be fun, food, and giveaways.

The Roads that Lead to Lincoln. 11 a.m. at the Plainfield Public Library. Author Dave Clark

guides you through Abraham Lincoln’s political and legal careers in Illinois and the historic sites related to Abe and his family

located along Route 66, the Great River Road, and the Lincoln Highway. Sign up for this program at http://plainfield.lib.il.us.

The Enterprise

By Mark Gregory Sports Reporter

Over the years, Joliet Catholic has had its share of big time pitchers, namely Mark Grant, Bill Gullickson and Kevin Cameron who all pitched successfully in the Major Leagues.

None of them, however, posted the high school season that Kevin Duchene had this year for the Hillmen.

The lefty was 8-0 on the season with a 0.13 ERA in 52 innings pitched. He allowed only 22 hits, struck out 96 batters and waled only 10.

He was named as East Suburban Catholic Conference MVP and is also the 2012 Voyager Media Player of the Year.

“If we did it 100 times over, it would never happen again,” Duchene said of his season. “It was a fun season even though it didn’t end how we wanted (JCA lost in the sectional final to Lincoln-Way West), anytime you can get 29 wins it is a great season. I didn’t feel pressure, because at the time, I just didn’t. It is really cool that it happened, but I wasn’t focusing on that.The thing I am upset I didn’t get to was the 100 strikeouts before 10 walks.

That was something I wanted to do.”

Duchene allowed only one earned run the entire season, placing him tied for fourth all time in IHSA history for lowest ERA in a season with Tom Evans of Brother Rice in 1968.

In fact, of all the pitchers above Duchene, only one pitcher (Wheaton Warrenville South’s Dan Brauer in 2001) accomplished the feat in the last 25 years.

“It is kind of cool to know if the IHSA record books are accurate online, I am (tied for the fourth) lowest ERA ever,” Duchene said. “It is cool because guys like Kai Freeman and a lot of other JCA pitchers are in those record books, so it is cool to have my name in

Thursday, July 5, 2012 there with them.”

Freeman posted a 0.34 ERA in 1995 and was the lowest ERA in the Joliet area, along with Lockport’s Anthony Shelby (1992, 0.37).

Both were 12th round draft picks on major league teams out of college, Freeman coming from the University of Minnesota, where he won the Big 10 Tournament in 1998.

Duchene looks to follow Freeman,as he will also compete in the Big 10, committing to the University of Illinois.

He said he visited Purdue and Illinois and had four more schools he cancelled on after coming back from Champaign.

“I had four trips after Illinois and I had to call coaches and tell them Illinois was the place for me,” Duchene said. “They have just brought in a new pitching coach, Drew Dickinson. He is a guy I would like to surround myself with for the next four years.”

Dickinson was Big Ten Conference pitcher of the year in 2001 with the Illini.

Duchene feels he can learn a lot at Illinois and while he wants to work on his velocity, he knows he is a pitcher that is successful with a good defense behind him, something he had at JCA. “I really only do 50 percent of the work,” he said. “Once the ball leaves my hand there is not much I can do about it. With the infield I had, some of those guys, I never saw them miss a ball that was hit to them.”

Duchene also knows he benefitted from the new bat rule the IHSA had this season, taking some of the fluke hits out of play.

“With the old bats, you could make good pitches and the bats had enough pop to get the ball out between the second baseman and right fielder or something,” he said. “The BBCOR bats and more true, like a wooden bat, and the only real way to get beat is to See ALL-AREA, page 14

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The Enterprise, Thursday, July 5, 2012

ALL-AREA Continued from page 13 leave something over the plate that they could get the good part of the bat on.”

No matter what played to his favor, it was Duchene’s had work that kept him getting better each season.

“In my opinion Kevin was the No. 1 pitcher in the state,” JCA coach Jared Voss said. “Only one earned run all season is pretty amazing. Kevin will continue his baseball career at U of I next season. Kevin improved every season in the program and a lot of that is because the work he put in the offseason and on his own. His baseball future is very bright at the next level.”

While he is waiting to compete for the Illini, Duchene is playing for the Illinois Sparks, where two weeks ago, he faced beat Louisville’s Kyle Funkouser 3-2. The match-up is what many fans anticipated in the sectional finals, but like JCA, Funkhouser’s Oak Park team was also upset in the opener.

“He is unbelievable,” Duchene said. “I know a lot of people were talking about how that match-up would have been and it would have been fun, but it would have been cooler if we didn’t like each other and it was a rivalry, but he is like one of my best friends.”

While Duchene didn’t have a chance to face his friend in the IHSA playoffs, he did throw an inning of scoreless relief in his final game, but he said he wasn’t too emotional about that inning.”

“I know I have a lot of baseball left and that wasn’t my final inning,” he said. “When I throw my last game, I wont be able to do an interview because I am going to be so upset. I love this game so much and as a long as I can play it, I am going to.”

The rest of the Voyager Media All Area team are:

PATRICK ALOISIO Aloisio, whom Maine South coach Bill Milano refers to as a “Greg Maddux at the high school level,” wasn’t overpowering, but he could

throw five pitches for strikes and consistently got ahead of opposing hitters in the count.

Aloisio posted a 10-1 record, a 1.58 ERA and a 0.97 WHIP. He’ll be pitching at nearby Oakton Community College next spring.

“He’ll do fine,” Milano said.

“He throws strikes and he mixes it up.”

DEREK BANGERT J u n i o r catcher batted .491 with 14 doubles, for Lockport.

He added five homers and 25 RBI and was one of the top hitters in the area.

TIM BLAKE Senior from Plainfield Central went 5-2 with a 1.99 ERA on the year.

“Tim Blake had not started a game until this year and became the Wildcats best pitcher,” Central coach John Rosner said. “He had an ERA of under two in 11 starts. He will be pitching for Kankakee Community College next year.”

JULIAN CLOUSE Senior righty from Plainfield South went 7-3 with a 1.41 ERA. C l o u s e finished the season with 64.2 innings pitched.

KYLE COLLETTA Colletta, on the varsity since his freshman year, committed only four errors in 93 total chances at second base during the season (.959 fielding percentage) while hitting .290 for Niles West. But he was even more effective on the mound, going 9-2 with a 1.48 ERA and 59 strikeouts in 66 innings.

“I feel like Kyle’s name will be at top of list of all players that have come through here,” said Wolves coach Garry Gustafson.

“He’s the best middle infielder in the entire area and has so much more to show as a senior.”

JOE CRESTA Cresta, a Notre Dame recruit, went 9-1 on the bump with a 1.12 ERA. He had 77 strikeouts for Plainfield North. At the plate he had 34 hits, eight doubles and 22 RBI in his senior season.

CHARLIE DONOVAN The sky seems to be the limit for the Westmont freshman, whom firstyear coach D.J. Cocks says is already a Division I prospect. Donovan, the team’s MVP, hit .440 with a .527 on-base percentage and 14 stolen bases. He also was listed among the top five players in the state for the Class of 2015 by prepbaseballreport.com/ Illinois.

“He’s legit,” Cocks said.

“Everyone that sees him just drools over him. I’ve been coaching for nine seasons now, and I haven’t seen a freshman that good.”

CORY EVANS Maine East went 1225 during the 2012 campaign, but it’s safe to say Evans, a fouryear varsity player, played a role in each of those triumphs, whether at shortstop or on the bump. Evans recorded six wins, had a 3.55 ERA and pitched nine complete games. Hittingwise, he batted .396 with a .479 OBP and 14 stolen bases.

“He’s really ignited us offensively,” said Maine East coach Ron Clark. “Anytime he See ALL-AREA, page 16

The Enterprise, Thursday, July 5, 2012

Submitted Photo

Plainfield romps to title

The Plainfield Varsity hockey club took home the 2012 Division 2 title at the Darien Sportsplex 2012 Spring League. Plainfield rolled through its competition throughout the year, going undefeated at 9-0 for the year. Its closest win was 4-1 in the playoff semifinals against Lincoln-Way. In the championship they defeated the AWFG Renegades on June 25 5-0.

For the season Plainfield outscored its opponents in the six-team division an impressive 63-11, good for a plus 52 goal differential, by far the best in either division of the league (Hinsdale Central plus 22 in Division 1). Plainfield scored 18 more goals than the second most in its division (JCA) and allowed 16 fewer than the second least in goals allowed (Lincoln-Way). JCA had the second best goal differential of plus 10 in the division. Team members for Plainfield are Peter Antos, Jason Beilke, Luke Borth, Matt Bukovsky, Matt Cuda, Mike Czapla, Kieffer Degen, Shawn Eacott, Chris Fiordirosa, Ian Hosmer, Andy Kazak, Nick Kulisek, Tony Kulisek, Joe LaGioia, Evan Lachowicz, TJ Lestina, Vince Lettiere, Jonathan Lovorn, Vince Manno, Whitney Marasco, Randy Mikutis, Jonathan Moskaluk, Ken Russell, Jeremy Schanck and Ryan Trombley.

Page 15

Page 16

The Enterprise, Thursday, July 5, 2012

ALL-AREA Continued from page 14 was on the mound he gave us a chance. He pitched through a lot of stuff. He’s a very mentally tough kid, and always focused on the task at hand.”

BRIAN GLOWICKI Downers South junior went 8-1 with two saves on the year.

He had 72 strikeouts and just seven walks with a 1.20 ERA in 57 innings.

He was voted as team MVP. “I still don’t think he is a dominant pitcher,” Downers South coach Darren Orel said.

“But he dominates by being a pitcher. His fastball is only in the upper 80s, low 90s, so he is not going to just blow it by you. He tries to pitch to contact and he has more sink on his fastball this year and gets ground balls.”

JAKE HERRON The Joliet West junior posted a 6-4 overall record with three saves, but was 5-0 in the S o u t h We s t Suburban Conference Blue Division. He posted a 0.79 ERA, striking out 99 batters and walking 13.

JOSH JIMENEZ Ace of the Minooka staff, the senior lefty was 11-3 with a 1.71 ERA, in 86 innings. He posted 115 strikeouts and only 23 walks.

champs. He added 41 hits and nine doubles to go along with a team-best 22 runs scored.

CONNOR KOPACH

A spot starter his junior year, Kelly worked hard during the off-season and earned the starting nod at third base as a senior for Maine South. He was one of the Hawks’ top clutch hitters and RBI men.

“He just makes all the plays,” said Milano.“Routine plays and tough plays, and he has a good arm. He’s extremely focused between the lines.” Kelly is looking to continue playing at either Illinois Wesleyan or Webster University in St. Louis.

Batted .377 with 43 hits, 26 runs and 22 RBI for Downers North.

“Connor Kopach had a great junior year,” Isaacson said.

“Connor hit in the two hole all year for us and was our most consistent hitter the entire season. Connor was a major run producer for us by either getting on base, moving runners over or getting them in. Conner found a way to get the job done. That is a credit to him for all the work he has put in at the plate. Defensively Connor was outstanding. He has great hands, range, and a strong arm.

All variables you look for in a shortstop. There were games that defensively Connor took hits away to help us win ballgames and that is what you look for in your shortstop.”

CALEB KISSEL

AUSTIN MASTELA

KEENAN KELLY

Plainfield North senior s e c o n d b a s e m a n batted .380 for the 33-5 conference

Lockport senior outfielder had a strong second half of the year.

He finished the season with a .363 average, 13 doubles, three homers and 34 RBI. See ALL-AREA, page 17

The Enterprise, Thursday, July 5, 2012

ALL-AREA

the senior was 5-1 with a 2.33 ERA and 40 strikeouts.

“Nate was a bulldog on the mound and at the plate for us the last two years,” Voss said. “Plays every game full tilt and his tenacity will be missed next season. Nate was enjoyable to watch play the game because he played it with his heart on his sleeve.”

seven triples and three homers.

Scored 37 runs and drove home 33 runs.

“It was his second year as varsity starter,” Voss stated. “In a year where the bats affected a lot of hitters,they didn’t faze Chris. Next season he will be a top hitter and player in the area going into the spring season. Great leader on the field and continues to develop an excellent knowledge of the game.”

BRENDAN MILLER

JOE SPARACIO

Junior went 11-0 on the mound with a .85 ERA for Plainfield North.

He earned the win in every one of his starts and finished with 74 strikeouts to just 11 walks.

Plainfield Central senior totaled 48 hits, batted .436 with 43 RBI, 31 runs and 19 doubles.

“Joe Sparacio hit .436 and leaves Plainfield Central as one of it its greatest hitters,” Central coach John Rosner said. “All season long he has hit in the three spot and produced with both average and power.

He will continue his career at Lewis University next year.”

Batted .417 with 46 hits, 28 runs, 14 doubles and 26 RBI for Plainfield East.

“Tom has been a three year starter on the varsity for us,” East coach Adam O’Reel said. “He finished strong having his best hitting season of his career. He led our team in batting average, RBI, hits and on base percentage. Tom also was a mid-week conference pitcher for us during that time.

Tom had a great career for us and will be missed.”

CHRIS TSCHIDA

STEVE WALDROP

Continued from page 16 D u r i n g an 18-game stretch late in the season he batted nearly .600 with 32 hits, 11 doubles, two triples, three homers and 29 RBI.

CARSON NEUSCHWANDER S e n i o r outfielder led Minooka with a .360 batting a v e r a g e .

He had five doubles, four triples, three home runs and 25 RBI while scoring 21 runs and helping the Indians to a fourth-place finish in state.

KYLE RICHARDSON The Notre Dame-bound Richardson was one of Maine South’s leaders in batting average, home runs and RBIs. He also was one of the top students in his graduating class this spring (4.47 GPA and a 33 on his ACT).

“He’s a good fit for them (Notre Dame),” said Milano. “He plays a great center field, runs the bases well and he’s everything you look for in a high school player.

He has all the tools.”

KEVIN ROSS R o s s ’ exceptional abilities had majorleague scouts showing up in droves at Niles West games throughout the season. Ross, drafted in the eighth round by the Pittsburgh Pirates, hit .427 with 20 RBIs despite playing the last five games of his prep career with his left thumb broken in two places. If he doesn’t sign with the Pirates, he’ll be at Michigan next spring.

“He played at high level all year and turned a lot of heads,” said Gustafson.

NATE SEARING Batted .342 with 38 RBI and 42 hits for JCA. On the mound

The junior shortstop led Joliet Catholic with a .495 batting average, 52 hits, 10 doubles,

TOM VACHON

The Bolingbrook junior was 7-3 with a 1.83 ERA. He struck out 73 batters and walked 24 on the season. Waldrop held Naperville North at bay in the regional opener.

Scott Taylor and Mike Sandrolini contributed

Page 17

The Enterprise, Thursday, July 5, 2012

Page 18

Lots of excitement during 11-12 season BASEBALL 1. Minooka 2. Maine South 3. Plainfield North 4. Joliet Catholic 5. Niles West 6. Downers South 7. Lockport

SOFTBALL 1. Plainfield Central 2. Benet 3. Lockport 4. Downers North 5. Plainfield East 6. Joliet West 7. Minooka

GIRLS SOCCER 1. Downers South 2. Benet 3. Lockport 4. Plainfield North 5. Maine South 6. Plainfield Central 7. Niles West

BOYS VOLLEYBALL 1. Minooka 2. Downers North 3. Benet 4. Maine South 5. Plainfield North 6. Downers South 7. Bolingbrook

BOYS TRACK 1. Minooka 2. Joliet West 3. Lockport 4. Maine South 5. Niles West 3. Plainfield Central 4. Downers South

GIRLS TRACK 1. Bolingbrook 2. Plainfield North 3. Downers South 4. Downers North 5. Lockport 6. Minooka 7. Benet

This year was perhaps the greatest year in District 202 history.

There were numerous r e g i o n a l championships and even m u l t i p l e sectional championships, making it hard to pick the top 10 events of the year.

The top 10 events were those that I was at and is my personal opinion, ranging from importance to excitement level/ intrigue. Heartbreaking setbacks are included on the list because they were exciting and in key events.

GIRLS BASKETBALL 10. East 50, Romeoville 42 After rallying from a 14-point deficit the previous week to down Romeoville, the Bengals were at it again, this time in a regional semifinal.

They trailed 21-9 early in the game, but Faith Suggs hit four three-pointers, leading East back to the victory.

BOYS GOLF 9. Heartbreak Hotel It was heartbreak hotel for a pair of locals at the Joliet Sectional.

Seniors Matt Ward (Plainfield South) and Caleb Kissel (North) each came up one shot short of qualifying for state after carding 77s. It was a tense last two hours as the scores were coming in.

GIRLS TRACK 8. North brings home medals The Tigers grabbed a top 10 finish in state after Cessily Jones picked up third and fourth-place finishes.

Jaclyn Aremka added a thirdplace finish and was a part of the 4x2 relay team that took eighth.

FOOTBALL 7. North 35, Central 28 The Wildcats

scored

two

touchdowns on their first four plays of the game and had scored a third on a punt return to take a 20-0 lead, but it was called back.

That play turned the tide as the Tigers rallied to win 35-28 in the most entertaining football game of the year. The best game was likely Central’s 26-21 win over St. Charles North on a late touchdown, but I wasn’t at the game, so it didn’t qualify.

BOYS BOWLING 6. Central repeats as sectional champs It is hard to win one sectional championship in the hardest sectional in the state, but the Wildcats made it back-to-back.

The Wildcats this time were dangerously close to not advancing to state at all after rallying in the afternoon. They won by 22 pins and were clear of third place by just 41 in an exciting afternoon in Minooka.

BOYS BASKETBALL 5. Plainfield East 47, Neuqua Valley 45 The Bengals took home their first regional championship despite hitting just 6-of-16 free throws.

It was the defense that won them the championship and a last second halfcourt heave was off the mark for the host Wildcats after East missed the front end of a 1-and-1 with six seconds left.

GIRLS VOLLEYBALL 4. Central 25, 15, 27, Lockport 22, 25, 25 In a thrilling sectional semifinal, the Wildcats won the first set before falling in the second set. In the third set they trailed 20-15 before making their run.

They took a 24-23 lead and had match point before the Porters scored the next two points and held a 25-24 lead.

However, Central scored the

game’s final three points as senior Erin Hyland finished the match off with a kill.

BOYS BASKETBALL 3. West Aurora 58, Plainfield East 53 The East Aurora Sectional semifinal game was an intense battle.The Bengals held the lead throughout much of the game, but the Blackhawks were able to come back and tie the game.

East had three chances in the closing seconds to win, but a three-pointer and a pair of tips were just off the mark, sending the game into overtime, where West Aurora pulled off the upset.

BOYS SOCCER 2. East Aurora 5, Plainfield Central 4 It was one of the two most exciting soccer games I have ever witnessed at the high school level between East Aurora and Central.

The two teams went back and forth the whole game but the Wildcats were left trailing late in the game when Josh Rosenbaum headed in a throw-

in with 13.7 seconds left to tie the game.

In overtime the Tomcats had a chance to win on a penalty kick, but missed. Less than two minutes later though they found the back of the net for the win.

SOFTBALL 1. Moline 5, Central 4 Perfectly defining an instant classic, this supersectional game featured lead changes, a pair of comebacks and controversy in a battle for the right to go to state.

The Wildcats led 1-0 early but trailed 3-1 heading into the top of the seventh.A two-run double

by Morgan Vogt tied the game and that was soon following by an RBI single by Cailey Baker to take the lead.

Moline loaded the bases in the bottom half of the inning with no outs. It appeared the Wildcats got a force out at the plate, but the runner was called safe to tie the game.The next batter won it for Moline, sending it to state.

It was a heartbreaking finish for the Wildcats, who had advanced farther than any team in program history after winning the East Aurora Sectional. staylor@enterprisepublications.com

The Enterprise, Thursday, July 5, 2012

www.buglenewspapers.com/outdoors

Page 19

Mercer, Wisconsin is a Northwoods Treasure

By Dan Stefanich

There’s something special about Northwoods. The heavy scent of pine in the air. Bald eagles everywhere. The wailing call of the loons. It’s been a while since I had the opportunity to fish up North. But a recent trip to Mercer, Wisconsin brought back a flood of memories, and a chance to create new ones.

Located at the northernmost part of Wisconsin, Mercer is just miles from the Michigan border, or about 5 hours from Chicago.

I was filming an episode of Illinois Outdoors TV with my buddy Don Dziedzina, so we had to squeeze a lot into 3 short days. As we pulled into town, we were greeted by a giant loon sculpture, fitting for the Loon Capital of the World.

Over three days we fished several lakes. But the largest body of water was the famed Turtle-Flambeau Flowage. There was plenty of rock structure typical of the northern lakes, but this body of water was loaded with lots of downed timber, which provides great hiding places for the fish. Our method of fishing was working small jigs tipped with a half a night crawler through the logs and timber. Using this technique, we caught a variety of fish including smallmouth bass, walleye, rock bass and bluegills. Of course there’s a price to pay when fishing underwater timber- as I donated plenty of jigs to the Flowage. “If you’re not getting snags, you’re not where the fish are,” explained Jerry Hartigan of Jerkbait Guides Services. We boated some giant smallmouth

in the 4-plus pound range. I was intrigued by how dark their colors were, almost black, due to the tannin in the water from the trees. Our timing was not ideal as we arrived just after the mayfly hatch, so the fish had been gorging themselves on the mayfly larvae hatching from the lake bottoms. The temperature was in the upper 80’s, which also slowed the bite. Despite the challenging conditions we still caught fish thanks to the help of some of the best guides in Northern Wisconsin including Hartigan, Mike “Doc” Sabec, John Andrew, Jeff Robl, and Erv Keller. The walleye had lockjaw as well, but we still caught our limit and brought some home for the frying pan.

Now I have never fished for muskies before, but know it requires a LOT of casting with giant lures, and that catching a musky is kind of like winning the lottery. Well, our guide Bobby Orr made it looks easy.

In just 3 hours, we had one musky in the boat, 2 hooked up and about 5 more that followed our lures to the boat. I had a 40-incher hooked up…for about ten seconds. After grabbing my spinnerbait, he exploded out of the water about 15 feet from the boat, shaking his tooth-filled head, then in a giant “woosh” he cut the line and waved goodbye.

Now I know why musky fishing can be so addicting— what a rush!

Catching fish in the Northwoods makes you hungry, and the locals went above and beyond to make sure we had our fill. We enjoyed a lakeside campfire breakfast at the Pine

Photo Courtesy of Dan Stefanich

Mercer, WI is truly the Loon Capital of the World offering plenty of exciting opportunities for wildlife photographers, outdoor enthusiasts and or course, fishermen.

Forest Lodge, a BBQ cookout with salmon and ribs courtesy of the McNutt Group, and a scrumptious walleye shore lunch at The Gateway Lodge.

Mercer is also a great place for the entire family. Every facility we visited was family-friendly.

And the Wampum Shop is a must-visit for the kids, or if you need to bring gifts back for the rest of the family.The locals were some of the friendliest folks I’ve met, and they treated us like family. Mercer is also a winter hotspot with some outstanding

snowmobiles trails and ice fishing. If you are interested in setting up a trip, contact the Mercer Chamber of Commerce at www.mercercc.com. For more photos and resources for this fantastic destination, visit DanStefOutdoors.com.

Take 5

The Enterprise, Thursday, July 5, 2012

Page 20

H o ro s c o p e s

Across 1 The NFL’s Montana and Favre, e.g.

4 __-wip: “real cream” brand 9 Rap’s __ Rhymes 14 Suffix with script 15 Apply, as pressure 16 Not cool, man 17 Marksman’s skill 18 *Duplicator in an office 20 Former boxer Ali 22 Musician’s gift 23 Makes a decision 24 *Great Chicago Fire scapegoat 28 Apt. complex unit 29 Ohio rubber city 32 Canonized Fr. women 35 Grand Coulee, for one 37 Thief-turnedsleuth Lupin 38 Nonpro sports org.

39 *Classic chocolate treat

Follow your dream.

You are friendly toward everybody; you might find that tweeting suits your style.

In the week to come, however, you could be too aggressive about taking the lead in groups.

Bad judgment jams up your jolliest times. When you’re afraid to do something in the week ahead, chances are it’s exactly the thing you should be doing.

Impulsive purchases and passions are possible.

You can talk the talk and walk the walk. In the week ahead, your cup seems to runneth over with romance and passion. Problems arise, however, when you feel you can’t get enough and try too hard.

This week’s full moon might fool you. In the upcoming week, when you think you have licked your wounds and gotten over it, something reminds you of conflict.

Let your heart rule over emotions.

Things will get better.

You shine in group activities during the week ahead, but might find that one-onone situations are challenging on an emotional level.

It might be stormy now, but it can’t rain forever

Brilliant is as brilliant does. In the first half of the week, you seem to want things more - and easily use your resourceful mind to get them. In the second half of the week, however, you yield to impulse buying.

Grab the rabbit’s foot and hold on tight. There are days that you must say to yourself, “If there weren’t bad luck, you wouldn’t have any luck at all.” In the week ahead, remember to accept sound advice.

It isn’t always about business as usual. Just because your peer group does things one way doesn’t mean that it is always the only right way. In the week ahead, be sure to use inspired logic as your guide.

Those who laugh last probably didn’t get the joke. Dealing with people from a sedate or conservative background could present challenges in the week ahead. Keep in mind that not everyone is sincere.

An ounce of forgiveness is worth more than a pound of revenge.

Being sincere is perfectly acceptable, even in business situations. During the week to come, you attract romantic partners.

Contrasts are contrary.

You may walk a balance beam between honoring the old and embracing the new in the week ahead. You could want champagne on a beer budget, so restrain your impulses.

Sex appeal is 50 percent what you’ve got and 50 percent what people think you’ve got. In the week ahead, you begin attracting the right people - but by the end of the week the reverse could be true.

Down 41 “Proud Mary” pop gp.

42 Throbs 44 Watchdog’s warning 45 Prog. listing 46 Spot on TV 47 Aptly named fruit 49 *Take a path of least resistance 56 Narrow cut 58 Filmdom’s Farrow 59 Short vodka order 60 Seller’s assurance of payment, and a hint to what the last words of the answers to starred clues can have in common 64 Sewing kit item 65 Starts the pot 66 Army base near Petersburg, Va. 67 12/24 or 12/31 68 Iraq’s main port 69 Ritual celebrating the Jews’ liberation from Egyptian slavery 70 __ Moines

1 Uneasy feeling 2 Prickly bush 3 18-wheelers 4 Automaker’s bane 5 Lead-in for skeleton 6 Bank statement abbr.

7 Laundry appliance 8 “Be that as __ ...”

9 Tampa Bay athlete, briefly 10 Opens, as a gate 11 Marine salvage crew’s job 12 Glass darkener 13 Big galoots 19 Latin art 21 Throws softly 25 Old Norse works 26 Biochemist’s gel 27 Singer Vikki 30 “... __ and for all!”

31 Bookish type 32 ‘90s-’00s NFL Pro Bowler Warren 33 Bull: Pref.

34 Speakers at memorial services

36 Chow mein additive 37 “I can’t believe this!”

39 “Feed me,” in Siamese?

40 Champagne word 43 Cover completely 45 Prepare, as flour 48 Red Sox pitcher Jon 50 Brat 51 Little fights 52 Bret who wrote gold rush stories 53 Ran with ease 54 Fruit yielding oil 55 Some cellar contents 56 Union underminer 57 Head-turning Turner 61 Mex. neighbor 62 Trite 63 Originally called

SUDOKU

©2012 TRIBUNE MEDIA SERVICES, INC.

Previous puzzle ’s answers

Previous puzzle ’s answers

Previous puzzle ’s answers

Jumbles: • MUSTY • RAVEN • SOCKET • DEVICE

Answer:

What the flies passed on the movie set - THE “SCREEN” TEST

TOP POP ALBUMS June 17 through June 23 TITLE

Looking 4 Myself Clockwork Angels 21 Punching Bag Plus Up All Night Americana Thirty Miles West Rock of Ages Triple F Life: Fans

TOP DVD RENTALS June 17 through June 23

TOP COUNTRY ALBUMS June 17 through June 23 ARTIST

Usher Rush Adele Josh Turner Ed Sheeran One Direction Neil Young with Crazy Alan Jackson Soundtrack Waka Flocka Flame

TITLE

Punching Bag Thirty Miles West Tailgates & Tanlines Now That’s What I Call Country

Blown Away Tuskegee Chief My Kinda Party Edens Edge Changed

ARTIST

Josh Turner Alan Jackson Luke Bryan Various Artists Carrie Underwood Lionel Richie Eric Church Jason Aldean Edens Edge Rascal Flatts

TITLE

21 Jump Street Mirror Mirror Wrath of the Titans Sherlock Holmes: A Game of Shadows

The Vow Safe House Ghost Rider: Spirit of Vengeance Underworld Awakening Journey 2: The Mysterious Island Chronicle

LABEL

MGM Relativity Media Warner Bros.

Warner Bros.

Screen Gems Universal Pictures Sony Pictures Screen Gems Warner Bros.

20th Century Fox

Kids

The Enterprise, Thursday, July 5, 2012

Page 21

Page 22

Travel

The Enterprise, Thursday, July 5, 2012

Going local: It’s easier than you think I’m not naturally a wild-and-crazy kind of guy.

But when I’m shy and quiet, things don’t happen, and that’s a bad rut to travel in.

The meek may inherit the earth, but they won’t enjoy it.

When you’re traveling in Europe, make yourself an extrovert, even if you’re not. Be a catalyst for adventure and excitement - and don’t be intimidated. Generally speaking,Europeans enjoy getting to know Americans - all it takes to connect is a friendly smile and genuine curiosity. Here are a few tricks I use to connect with the locals: Be open to encounters as you visit a city. At most major sights, you’ll meet more people in an hour than you would at home in a day.Cameras are good icebreakers; offer to take someone’s picture or ask a local to take a picture of you. If you are lonely and in need of human contact, take out a map and look lost.You’ll get help.

Perceive friendliness and you’ll find it.

Take a class at a cooking school. These give you not just a taste of the culinary traditions of the area you’re visiting, but also a hands-on feel for what happens in European kitchens - along with a skill you can take home. Many include a trip to local markets. You can find oneday European cooking classes at the International Kitchen (www. theinternationalkitchen.com).

Across Europe, some large cities and even small towns (such as Germany’s Rothenburg) have informal English-language conversation clubs, usually meeting weekly or monthly in a public space (search online or ask at the tourist information office). You may well be the only native speaker there - if so, expect an especially warm welcome.

Several European cities have English-speaking volunteer greeters who belong to the

Global Greeter Network (www. globalgreeternetwork.com).

Greeters are screened extensively, but aren’t trained as historical experts. Instead, they introduce visitors to their city by spending a few hours sharing their insider knowledge - their favorite hidden spots, how to navigate public transit, where to find the best bargains, etc.

A few bigger cities have more formal programs that put travelers in direct touch with locals. In Dublin, the City of a Thousand Welcomes brings volunteers and first-time visitors together for a cup of tea or a pint (free, www.cityofathousandwelcomes. com). In Paris, the group Meeting the French organizes dinners in private homes and workplace tours to match your interests or career (fee, www. meetingthefrench.com). Visitors to Copenhagen can enjoy a home-cooked meal with a family through Dine with the Danes (fee, www.dinewiththedanes. dk). With Helsinki’s Meet the Finns program, you can match your hobbies with a local - and suddenly, you’re searching for Marimekko tea towels with your new Finnish friend (fee, www. cosyfinland.com).

If you’re a techie,try meeting up with locals through social media.

Like-minded individuals can find one another on www.meetup. com, whose worldwide members welcome visitors to wide-ranging events such as photography walks, happy hours, and weekend skiing.

Twigmore, a Facebook travel app (www.twigmore.com), connects vacationers and residents through mutual “friends” - just type in your destination, and Twigmore will tell you if a friend of one of your Facebook buddies lives in the city.

CouchSurfing is known for its sleep-for-free network, but it also lists “day hosts” who are happy to just meet up with like-minded visitors and swap travel stories (www.couchsurfing.com). Also consider joining a hospitalityexchange network, such as Servas (www.servas.org).

And there’s the old-fashioned, face-to-face option of meeting

Submitted Photo

Asking someone to take your picture could be the beginning of a transatlantic friendship.

people during their everyday routines. Take your laundry and a deck of cards to a launderette and turn solitaire into gin rummy.

You’ll end up with a stack of clean clothes and interesting conversations.

You’re always welcome at a church service; stay for the coffee hour.Or get caught up in a sporting event. Whether enjoying soccer in small-town Italy or hurling in Ireland, you’ll be surrounded by a stadium crammed with devout fans. Buying something to wear or wave with the hometown colors helps me remember whose side I’m on.

Play with kids. Thumb wrestle.

Learn how to say “pretty baby” in the native language. If you play peek-a-boo with a baby or fold an origami bird for a kid, you’ll make

friends with the parents as well as the child. If you are shy about connecting with families, pal up to a pooch - you will often find they are happy to introduce you to their owners.

Connecting with people carbonates your travels. When I read over my past trip journals, I’m always impressed by how often the best experiences were meeting people; these are the kind of souvenirs you’ll enjoy for a lifetime.

(Rick Steves (www.ricksteves.com) writes European travel guidebooks and hosts travel shows on public television and public radio. Email him at rick@ ricksteves.com and follow his blog on Facebook.)

(c)2012 RICK STEVES DISTRIBUTED BY TRIBUNE MEDIA SERVICES, INC.

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Should he stay or should he go?

Dear Dave, My son has worked and saved all through school and will be graduating this year with a degree in electrical engineering. He has a job waiting for him when he finishes, and he wants to move out on his own then. I think he should continue to live at home and save up more money.

What do you think?

Sue

Dear Sue, H o n e s t l y, I think he should move out.

This situation isn’t about money as much as it’s about your son becoming a man. At this point in his life it’s going to be really

good for him, emotionally and spiritually, to stand on his own two feet.

It sounds like you’ve got some good ideas about saving and financial responsibility, and he needs to take some of Mom’s advice in those areas. But it’s time he had his own place and started paying his own bills. It’s time for this one to leave the nest, spread his wings, and fly.

Here’s something else to

think about. He’s going to look a whole lot better to the world if he’s out there standing on his own. I think lots of young ladies, not to mention their parents, will be much more impressed by a guy who’s making his own way rather than living at home with mom.

He’s at a point where he’s reaching for dignity and trying to make his way in the world.

Let him do it. I’ve got a feeling

he’ll make you proud!

—Dave * Dave Ramsey is America’s trusted voice on money and business. He’s authored four New York Times bestselling books: Financial Peace, More Than Enough, The Total Money Makeover and EntreLeadership. The Dave Ramsey Show is heard by more than 5 million listeners each week on more than 500 radio stations. Follow Dave on Twitter at @DaveRamsey and on the web at daveramsey.com.

Body language can make or break career Q. How do I understand nonverbal communication at work? I’ve read books on body language, but I am still pretty confused. Are there any easy guidelines to help interpret what body language means?

A. Western culture mostly associates the physical body with sex. When I teach nonverbal communication, people often squirm and giggle because bringing up the fact they have bodies makes them embarrassed.

However,the body is a powerful communication channel that is mostly ignored or barely noticed at work. Even though studies find body language carries 55 percent of the meaning during communication.

Being able to understand body language is more complicated than getting a guide that says if your boss scratches his nose, he’s lying. Most body language is unique to the person using it.

Pay attention to what your body and others’ bodies do

when you’re in boring situations (e.g., meetings).

Experiment with imitating different postures or gestures you see people use.

How do you feel when you pound your fist, drape your arms over the chair, or sit with legs and arms crossed.

Notice your feelings when you use assume positions and you’ll have better information about what’s going on for others.

Make sure you’re breathing deeply when you’re trying to notice nonverbal behavior. If you’re having an out-of-body experience rather than being in your body, it will be tough to observe anyone else’s.

If you see a coworker make a gesture repeatedly, try asking them what it means when they look at their watch, tap their foot or lean away. After a while,

you will get a working physical vocabulary of the people around you.

One critical aspect of body language is that it often reveals much more than people want to about their real agendas.

Moreover, people will even tell you information they themselves don’t fully grasp or want to admit. For instance, I had a client who pounded his fists whenever he talked about his boss. I asked him why he was so mad at his boss, and he looked surprised. He hadn’t thought about his fury until I pointed out his fists.

If you ever find a person’s nonverbal and verbal communication to be in conflict, always believe the body. Very few people can control their body language. What you hear when the body talks may even save your career one day!

The last word(s) Q. I just got a new job

and now have another offer double my current salary.

Would it be wrong to take the job?

A. No. Ask yourself if your company would consider it wrong to let you go if it were in their best interests? Then take the job.

(Daneen Skube, Ph.D., executive coach, trainer, therapist and speaker, also appears as the FOX

Channel’s “Workplace Guru” each Monday morning. She’s the author of “Interpersonal Edge: Breakthrough Tools for Talking to Anyone, Anywhere, About Anything” (Hay House, 2006). You can contact Dr. Skube at www. interpersonaledge.com or 1420 NW Gilman Blvd., #2845, Issaquah, WA 98027. Sorry, no personal replies.)

(c) 2012 INTERPERSONAL EDGE DISTRIBUTED BY TRIBUNE MEDIA SERVICES, INC.

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