Niles Bugle 3-8-12

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SPORTS Maine South wins regional title

NEWS Library Board votes 5-2 in favor of $6 million upgrade Page 3

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Sales Tax

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MARCH 8, 2012

Vol. 56 No. 22

“I need to put a new roof on my house but I can’t put a toll booth outside my house and expect other people to help me pay for it.”

Pat Argyrakis, Niles resident

Public hearing sees strong debate over Golf Mill tax increase

By Rick Kambic Staff Reporter

D

espite packing the boardroom with dozens of tenants, the representatives from Golf Mill Shopping Center faced tough opposition during the Feb. 28 public hearing on a proposed business district that would implement a .25 percent sales tax increase on mall purchases.

Mall ownership and consultants argued that public help would maintain,and even boost the village’s sales tax revenue by helping the shopping center stay competitive with rising shopping centers in Mt. Prospect and Rosemont.

“A business district is an economic tool that can be used without subjecting the residents to a fee directly,” said Dan Gardner, an economic consultant from Houseal Lavigne. “It’s ‘pay as you go,’ and a mall attracts people from a much larger (geographic) area, so the impact is spread all across the board instead of solely on your residents.”

The increase would equal 25 cents per every $100 purchase,

deemed “unnoticeable” by several presenters.

Gardner said helping the mall remain successful helps maintain property taxes in surrounding residential and commercial areas.He referred to Golf Mill as Niles’“crown jewel,” and said the proposal could have included a 1 percent sales tax increase but ownership decided against asking for that much.

The various presenters outlined how the proposal would align with Village of Niles 2030 Plan, storm water plan, Milwaukee corridor transit plan and Milwaukee Avenue landscape beautification plan.

Improving roadway and interior signage, repairing street surfaces on and around entrances, increasing underground storm water storage by 50 percent, replacing landscape displays and selective roof repairs were among the proposed projects.

Gardner reiterated several times that the village would control sales tax-generated funds, and that mall ownership must make the initial investment and justify the work to get reimbursed from the village’s business district account.

Public comment Niles resident Pat Argyrakis said she researched the State of Illinois’ definition of a business district and came across the term “blighted area.” While she supports publicprivate partnerships, Argyrakis said the village’s “crown jewel” should not have become a “blighted area.”

“What I see here tonight is great, and I like it, but it’s something an owner should be doing as upkeep,” Argyrakis said.“I need to put a new roof on my house but I can’t put a toll booth outside my house and expect other people to help me pay for it.”

Giving sympathy for Golf Mill’s need to raise rent just to keep par, Argyrakis still accused management of neglecting its duties.

“There were good times before there were bad times, and if you managed the mall in the good times and decided not to take care of this stuff, then shame on you,”Argyrakis said.“The tax payers shouldn’t have to pay for it.”

Another Niles resident, Joe Makula, referred to the proposal as a “handout.”

Rick Kambic/Bugle Staff

Golf Mill Improvement Framework

“This is taking from the 99 percent of the population and giving it to the 1 percent,”Makula said.“If they can’t afford to do it themselves then they shouldn’t be in the business. They should be able to take on another partner or sell some equity.”

Two of the mall’s anchor stores sent representatives to the hearing – one in favor of the proposal and one opposed.

Jeffrey Poole, manager of real estate development for Kohls, said the proposal had good and bad parts but he opposed the funding option.

He said customers now more than ever monitor costs through cell phone applications and routine review of credit card statements.

“Just like a mall can acquire a See GOLF MILL, page 2

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THE BUGLE MARCH 8, 2012

GOLF MILL Continued from page 1 reputation for having poor security, a mall can also get a reputation for having higher costs,” Poole said.

Sherry Devoe,real estate strategist with Sears Holdings Corp., said getting bank financing for declining malls is virtually impossible and public-private partnerships are often the last resort.

Countering the “blighted area” comment, Katie Schneider of the Niles Chamber of Commerce and Industry said the mall is not a blighted area in actuality,only partial terminology, and the business district would prevent the mall from further decline.

Schneider supported claims from Golf Mill management that a strong mall will maintain a thriving Milwaukee Avenue corridor.

Trustees’ cross examination Trustee Joe LoVerde adamantly expressed his concern over calling Golf Mill a “blighted area” “When did the Village Board designate Golf Mill a ‘blighted

area?’” LoVerde said. “Should we be holding a meeting to review findings on whether or not Golf Mill is blighted or losing money?”

Wendell Holland, of CB Richard Ellis, is the leasing agent for Golf Mill. He told LoVerde the meeting includes just a proposal, but if the board adopts the business district then trustees would agree to certain findings at a later meeting.

“The State of Illinois lists five criteria for a ‘blighted area’ and requires just one be met in order to erect a business district,” Holland said. “We’ve identified three.”

Trustee Andrew Przybylo asked Holland if he believes Golf Mill is a blighted area.

“We meet the legal standards that allow us to proceed with this proposal,” Holland said.

Trustee Louella Preston said the village has done extensive work with tax incremental finance (TIF) districts but always with outside help.

“It might be prudent to find a consultant who can provide objective data and results on business districts before we vote to erect the first ever in Niles,” Preston said.

The most aggressive trustee was

News Rosemary Riordan Palicki, who quizzed the Golf Mill contingent on the mall’s ownership history.

When told that Golf Mill has been under the same ownership for 50 years, Palicki pulled details from the proposed projects and expressed her displeasure.

“It bothers me that you’ve had some of these problems for 30 years and are now coming to us asking for public help,” Palicki said.“This is not a redevelopment like Randhurst. This seems like a bunch of cosmetics at high cost on the taxpayer back. Why not just actually renovate?”

Palicki then asked why the proposal mentions a .50 percent sales tax increase when their presentation only touched on a .25 percent increase.

Holland said ownership asked for the higher number in case the revenue is needed at a later date, and that the second .25 percent increase could only be activated by the Village Board through an ordinance. He said removing the option and having to amend an approved plan at a later date would be complicated.

At previous meetings, Golf Mill representatives said ownership cannot get bank financing.

Palicki touched on that subject

by asking if ownership has even tried, and was told that a current outstanding loan prohibits refinancing or acceptance of additional loans.

“We’re not talking about a sales tax increase with nothing else happening,” said John Houseal, an economic consultant from Houseal Lavigne. “We’re talking about a significant investment of up to $15 million by mall management and an additional tax that will only generate $600,000 to $800,000 per year in relation to that $15 million investment.The sales tax increase helps facilitate much of what you saw here.”

Trustee Chris Hanusiak reiterated that the business district would last up to 20 years and a low-balled $600,000 over

20 years equals $12 million. He then asked how Golf Mill plans to pay its $15 million since it cannot acquire a loan.

“Out of pocket,” Houseal said.

“Portions of that will cover the construction of two freestanding buildings.”

If the business district is to be erected, the village must submit the paperwork to the Illinois Department of Revenue by April 1 to get the tax implemented on July 1. The Village Board plans on having a voting item on the March agenda.

Village officials are unclear as to whether any special board meetings or hearings will be needed before the regular March 27 meeting. rkambic@buglenewspapers.com

THE BUGLE MARCH 8, 2012

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Niles Library commits to $6 million renovation

By Rick Kambic Staff Reporter

The Niles Library is now committed to a multi-million dollar renovation.

Though politically unstable in recent months, the Board of Trustees voted 5-2 on Feb. 29 to accept $376,000 worth of architectural and management services – a figure based on a percentage of the total project.

The expected scope of work includes $4,066,930 worth of construction, the use of $525,196 in new furniture, installing $523,000 worth of RFID and audiovisual equipment, $16,000 for “casework,” $25,000 for installing a new skylight and $40,000 for interior signage.

Before the vote, trustees did agree to remove a portion of the proposed $193,125 roof garden.

The approved contract still calls for strengthening of support beams so the outdoor lounge

can be built at a later time.

In total, the plan moving forward costs $5.6 million in renovation, supplies and services.

Confusion filled the board as Trustee Morgan Dubiel didn’t realize the meeting was advertised as a “special board meeting,” and Trustees Dennis O’Donovan and Sam Puleo didn’t realize approving the contracted services also meant approving their plan.

Dubiel thought the board was meeting as a committee and was taken aback by a call for the vote.

O’Donovan and Puleo asked after the vote if the scope can be changed later, and were told “yes” but the fees would remain the same.

After Board President Barbara Nakanishi called for a vote, Trustees Dubiel and Chris Ball did most of the talking as they tried to sway three swing votes.

“We started off talking about a

new entrance all those months ago, and now we’re talking about a nearly $6 million project,” Ball said.“I find myself asking ‘Are we really getting $6 million worth of added features?’ I, personally, think not. A lot of this work seems like shifting things around.

Is that what we have, a $6 million reorganization?”

Echoing Dubiel, Ball asked for a list of priorities so the trustees can see if the project can be trimmed into a price closer to the $4.2 million held in reserve.

“None of this has been prioritized or drawn out,” Dubiel agreed. “What we’re looking at here is ‘you accept it 100 percent as it is or you don’t.’”

Library staff answered those concerns by saying many of the projects are interconnected.They said relocating one department means moving another, and another.

“Morgan, we started this process about a year ago with

a wish list of many more items and a lot of stuff got eliminated, like a parking structure and a drive-by book return,” Nakanishi said. “These, right here, are the priorities.”

Just before the vote, Ball tried to use what he felt was the backbone of the renovation.

“Going back to our strategic plan, we have things in there like ‘provide a welcoming and safe place to learn.’ I’d say we already have that,” Ball said. “Can we expand upon it? Sure. Just like we already have and can improve ‘comfortable seating’ and ‘create adult and young readers.’ But not at a price tag of $6 million.”

Dubiel’s last stand before the vote referenced the most recent renovation of the library.

“Back in 1995, a board just like us sat here and tried to figure this out,” Dubiel said. “I don’t know the particulars of that, maybe they too were given an all or nothing scenario, but they

missed a 32-year-old boiler. They, just like us, could have spent $10 million but it would have meant nothing if they didn’t do a good job. I just want to know I’m doing a good job.”

The other trustees said little before voting in support of the full project scope, minus the rooftop garden.

Dubiel had previously asked for a review of the library’s strategic plan, and a second meeting was scheduled for after the special board meeting on Feb. 29. Dubiel was disappointed and said he wanted the strategic plan reviewed prior to voting on the consultants’ scope of work, so trustees knew what was driving the project.

The first meeting lasted until 9:30 p.m. and trustees agreed to cancel the second meeting.

A review of the strategic plan will take place at the beginning of the board’s March 21 regular meeting.

Residents voice their concerns over library renovation

By Rick Kambic Staff Reporter

While some library trustees didn’t realize their Feb. 29 vote accepted $5.2 million in work and $376,000 in services, trustees also overlooked two Niles residents who wanted to weigh in on the project before it was voted on.

Trustee Morgan Dubiel, among others, thought he was attending a committee meeting, but the posted agenda said “special board meeting” and the ensuing vote finalized a contract with Product Architecture and Design – the company chosen to design the library renovation.

After the vote, trustees took a ten-minute break. During that time, residents Billy and Krys Van Cannon asked when they could speak.

“We see so many people losing their jobs and having their houses foreclosed on, and here we find out the library is spending beyond its means to

renovate a building we think is just fine,” Krys Van Cannon told trustees during the break. “We just want you to know we think it’s great and should stay as is for a little while longer.”

When the board reconvened, Billy Van Cannon was given time to speak, but frequently found himself at odds with trustees and administrators.

“We use the library, we like the library, we think it’s great,” Billy Van Cannon said. “It seems like you have a decent building that needs some new equipment, and you apparently want some walls moved around. How can that possibly cost $6 million?”

Board President Barbara Nakanishi and Library Director Linda Weiss told Van Cannon that focus groups and public surveys led to the creation of a strategic plan, which was used when the architects designed their proposals.

After further explanation of how the $4.2 million was put in reserve over past years for

this renovation, Van Cannon disagreed with the library’s policy of saving large sums of money from year-to-year.

“Why is there $900,000 in surplus every year?”Van Cannon said. “That’s a lot of money.

Shouldn’t you be going to the assessor and telling him you want $900,000 less in property taxes from now on? You shouldn’t be coming up with expenses because you have the money.”

While on the subject of saving money, Van Cannon asked about the proposed $290,000 automated book sorter and

accompanying circulation upgrades that total approximately $500,000.

“How many people are getting laid off?” Van Cannon said. “In the private sector, if you make a capital investment like that you expect some return. If you aren’t going to release the people paid to do those jobs, then where’s the savings? What’s the point?”

Trustee Dennis O’Donovan said the library would consider eliminating positions after employees quit or retire.

Until then, personnel will be relocated.

Van Cannon concluded by asking the board to reconsider what they approved and drastically reduce the project to bare necessities, such as the new boiler.

But the discussion continued after the board moved on. Library staff approached Van Cannon at his seat in the audience and the group progressively talked so loud that trustees asked for the discussion to be taken outside.

In the hallway, Van Cannon said he didn’t see any of the $6 million going toward services, for See LIBRARY, page 4

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THE BUGLE MARCH 8, 2012

Callero plans to continue promoting Bloomberg award

By Rick Kambic Staff Reporter

Scolded for hiring an economic development and marketing officer during last year’s budget process, Niles Mayor Robert Callero plans on doing the same this year.

Budget hearings have been set for 6 p.m. on March 13 and March 20 in Village Hall.

Different than calendar years, the village operates on fiscal years that begin on May 1. The upcoming hearings will review and revise the proposed fiscal year 2013 budget.

After the budget passed last year, Callero delayed signing the approved ordinance until June because he decided to veto a $232,914 beautification line item that created a $217,000 deficit in the budget.

Callero justified his veto of the item by referencing the four jobs eliminated to balance the budget, saying flowers should

not supersede jobs and services to residents.

Trustee Chris Hanusiak said the mayor was sending a false message because he talked of needing to reduce a $1.6 million deficit but still hired an economic development officer.

Callero’s veto was later overridden by the trustees, but his economic development officer remained untouched.

Already on the payroll parttime as a business coordinator, Denise McCreery was made fulltime at a salary of $60,000 to also be responsible for promoting the Bloomberg News “Best Place

to Raise Kids” Award.

Recently released executive session minutes show that Trustees Hanusiak and Louella Preston opposed McCreery’s hiring.

After helping develop a logo for the award, McCreery was placed on numerous committees and worked to have bus benches and street light banners branded with the logo.

She also had a t-shirt created for sale and to give away at village functions.

Among others village employees, McCreery worked with other municipalities in Niles to collaborate on events and promotional programs relating to the Bloomberg Award.

However, McCreery announced her resignation from the position on Jan. 12.

“She did a good job,” Callero said.“It was for personal reasons that she left. It had nothing to do with her job or village politics.”

Three charged with concealing death of an acquaintance in Park Ridge On Sunday, March 4, at approximately 1:33 a.m., Park Ridge Police responded to the 700 block of Busse Highway to assist the Fire Department with an unresponsive subject.

Upon arrival, officers learned from three individuals on scene that an acquaintance had knocked on the door of their residence and when one of the individuals answered, he observed that acquaintance lying on the ground in the courtyard.

The acquaintance has been identified as Michael A. Kelly, 43, of Des Plaines. The individuals have been identified as: Gerald M. Pembor, 78, 725 Busse Highway, Park Ridge; John D. Pembor, 51, 725 Busse Highway, Park Ridge; and Daniel R. Chernesky, 35,

LIBRARY Continued from page 3 which a staff member told him “a more efficient and effectively organized library functions better.”

When he referenced specific

8429 N. Milwaukee, Niles.

Gerald Pembor further provided information that he immediately called 911 to secure help and that the three of them attempted to provide lifesaving measures to Kelly.

The Park Ridge Fire Department arrived on scene and transported Kelly to Lutheran General Hospital where he was later pronounced dead.

Detectives from the Park Ridge Police Department continued investigating the incident and subsequently learned that the initial circumstances provided

by Gerald Pembor, John Pembor and Daniel Chernesky were fabricated.

Detectives, working with the Cook County State’s Attorney’s

Office, were able to elicit information which indicated that Kelly had, in fact, arrived at the residence at approximately 9 p.m. and had gone into the bathroom. Soon after his arrival, he collapsed and became unconscious.

After several hours had elapsed, the three suspects moved Kelly outside and left him in the courtyard. Gerald Pembor then called 911 to summon assistance.

Based on the aforementioned facts, Gerald Pembor, John Pembor and Daniel Chernesky have been charged with Concealment of a Death and were taken to the Cook County Court in Skokie for a bond hearing on Monday, March 5.

items mentioned in the meeting and newspaper articles, library staff told him the media is misleading and the reporters are vultures looking for controversy.

He was then told the presented information “is complicated and not all suited for the general public to understand.”

“I left feeling like they didn’t

listen to me or address my concerns,”Van Cannon later said.

“They seemed more defensive over what they want. I still refuse to contribute to a $6 million project full of question marks.

I saw no evidence supporting their initiatives.” rkambic@buglenewspapers.com

When asked why the position remains vacant, Callero said he wanted to wait until the budget process began.

With budget hearings starting next week, Callero is confident that he won’t run into the same opposition as last year.

“Once that position is in the budget, I’m sure it will stay,”

Callero said. “I can’t speak definitively because who knows what will happen during those meetings, but what I’m reading from other trustees’ and administrators’ reactions are that we want to retain that position.” rkambic@buglenewspapers.com

THE BUGLE MARCH 8, 2012

Obituaries ADLER Linda Kathleen Adler, nee Kobos, loving mother of Scott (Janet) and Michael Adler. Dear sister of Frederick (Suzanne) Kobos. Beloved grandmother of Richard, Jacqueline, Christine, and Johnathon Adler. Great grandmother of David and Emily. Visitation was at the Skaja

DUGAS Annette Dugas, nee Tragarz, age 92, beloved wife of the late Frank. Loving mother of Madeleine (Terry Langer) Dugas, and Daniel (Linda) Dugas. Dear grandmother of Tom (Pam) Rubeo, and Gina (Erik) Tenglin.

Great grandmother of Elise,Mena, and Liliana. Cherished sister of the late Stephanie, Sophie, John, Marie, and Rosalie. Loving aunt of Annette (Gary) Smith. Great

KOWALSKI Helen A. Kowalski passed away on Friday, March 2, 2012. She was preceded in death by her mother, Mary Bochenek, (nee Slopek), her father Stanley, Bochenek, her husband, Walter Kowalski, her brother Walter Bochenek, and her sister, Sophie Kastner. She is survived by 2 sons, Leonard (Joyce) Kowalski, Arlington Heights, IL, and Kenneth (T/L Christine) Kowalski, her

LARNER James M. Larner retired Sgt CPD and Korean Marine Veteran and survivor of the Chosin Resevoir Battle; beloved husband of the late Lois; loving father of the late Sandra, Patricia and Theresa.

He was lying in State at St. Mary of the Woods Church 7033 N. Moselle Avenue Chicago on

Terrace Funeral Home 7812 N. Milwaukee Ave. Niles on Tuesday Feb. 28 from 4-9 pm. Funeral was Wednesday Feb. 29th Lying in State at St. Luke’s Lutheran Church 205 N. Prospect Ave. Park Ridge from 10 a.m. until time of service 11 a.m. Interment was at Town of Maine Cemetery.

Funeral info: 847-966-7302 or www.skajafuneralhomes.com

aunt. of DeAnna and Jason.Visitation was at the Skaja Terrace Funeral Home 7812 N. Milwaukee Ave. Niles on Thursday March 1st from 3-9 pm. Funeral was Friday March 2ns at 9:15 am to St. Juliana Church Mass 10 am.

Interment Maryhill Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, donations to the Macular Degeneration Foundation appreciated. Funeral info: 847-966-7302 or www. skajafuneralhomes.com

grandchildren, Kathleen, Linda, Michael, Anne, T/L Daniel and great-grandchildren, Bryan, Matthew, Kelly, Jennifer, Caitlin, Cassandra, Carly, Miranda, Kylie and one sister Florence (T/L Rozel) Frazer.

Visitation was at Skaja Terrace Funeral Home on Monday, March 5, 2012 and the services were at St. Andrew Life Center, on Tuesday, March 6, 2012.

Interment was at St. Delbert Cemetery, Niles, IL.

Saturday March 3rd from 1 p.m. until time of Mass 2 p.m. Interment was at All Saints Cemetery.

Memorials to the Wounded Warriors Project 4899 Belfort Road Suite 300 Jacksonville, FL 32256 appreciated. Information 847966-7302 or skajafuneralhomes. com

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verbalizing your ideas in a way that resonates with others, you can impress others with your knowledge and expertise. Gain trust in the week ahead by speaking to other people’s needs.

Clean up or make up.

Prove your mettle and

Calendar

THE BUGLE MARCH 8, 2012

ONGOING

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Snowman fashion show. into the world of dinosaurs with 7 p.m. at the Morton Grove encounter propels her into the Through February 29, drop a activities and games. For ages K-3. Public Library. Your child can martini-filled social world of Spring Fling Fashion Show. picture of your stylish snowman To sign up, call 847-825-3123 or practice reading to a certified 1930s Manhattan. To sign up, 11:30 a.m. at The Summit of therapy dog from Morton call 847-825-3123 or visit www. Uptown, 10 N. Summit, Park in the box on the youth services visit www.parkridgelibrary.org.

Grove’s Rainbow Animal Assisted parkridgelibrary.org.

Ridge. Get a head start on spring or reference desk of the Morton Previous puzzle ’s answers as you see how people of any Grove Public Library, or e-mail Reading with Rover. 7-8:30 Therapy Foundation. Bring a Bullies and those they bully. age can perk up their wardrobes it to snowman@webrary.org. p.m. at the Niles Public Library. book to read, or choose from 7-9 p.m. at Maine Township for the season ahead with Include the names, ages/grades, Want to practice reading out the library’s selection. Register Town Hall, 1700 Ballard Road, fashions from Chico’s of Park and phone numbers of all the loud with a friendly, patient by calling 847-929-5122 or go to Park Ridge.

Michael P. Maniacci, Ridge and Kustum Kribs Baby builders. In the event of no pup? For beginning or struggling calendar.webrary.org.

Psy.D., clinical psychologist and Boutique. Tickets are $20, which snowfall, use your creativity. readers in grades K and up.

Previous puzzle ’s answers MARCH 13 published author, will discuss includes a luncheon with wine, Winners will be notified March 9 Call Debbie at 847-663-6619 or get what and will benefit the Park Ridge for the silliest, fanciest, and most visit the library to sign up for a Senior Coffee Hour. 10:30- helping individuals Jumbles: 11:30 a.m. at the Niles Public they want without • becoming Community There will 20-minute slot. originally dressed snowmen.

BROOK • TUNED • LADINGFund.

• OSSIFY Library.A live “Swing into Spring” the bully or bullied. Visit www. also be door prizes and raffles.

Answer: arethisrequired by and fill out Teddy Bear Time. 9:30-10:05 Concert: Dyed in the Wool. musical concert with vocalist mainetownship.com A successful dress Reservations designer is good with call Oksana March 12, and can be made by a.m. at the Park Ridge Library. 7-8 p.m. at the Park Ridge Public Robbie Malkowski, accompanied a registration form, or -“FIGURES” calling 847-825-5311.

Drop in for stories, songs, and Library. Start your St. Patrick’s by DaveTurner,Jazz classic pianist. at 847-297-2510 ext. 271.

fingerplays for infants through 23 months with an adult. Siblings are welcome.

SUDOKU

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THE BUGLE MARCH 8, 2012

7

Letter to the Editor

Vote for kids’ and community’s future On March 20, Golf School District 67 voters have a major decision to make that will impact our community long term: Will we invest in our schools so that they can continue to provide our kids a strong educational foundation, or do we allow them to decline?

The schools are cracking at the seams with costly facility problems that disrupt learning.

For example, students and staff at both schools are often stuck in classrooms where the heat and AC just don’t work, due to old systems that need to be replaced. Yellow water runs out the schools’ faucets, due to plumbing issues. The bills for repairs are costly, and will only grow.

Your vote for the referenda will also prevent cuts that impact

our kids’ ability to successfully prepare for high school, college and careers. Fifteen teaching positions will be eliminated or reduced in hours.These teaching positions are critical to keeping our class sizes small and are key to our district’s success.

Those personnel cuts also link to the elimination of vital programs: Full-day kindergarten – a major attraction to families considering moving into the district – will be cut to 2.5 hours a day. Project Lead the Way, a middle school STEM program, and library programs will end.

After-school music and sports are targeted for elimination.

Some say the district needs to learn to live within its budget.

It has done so for many years.

The last time Golf 67 asked for increased funding was in

What’s on your mind?

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

E-mail your letter to the Editorial Department at sweditor@ buglenewspapers.com; send your letter to The Bugle, P.O. Box 1613, Plainfield, IL 60544; or drop off your letter at our office at 23856 S. Route 59; or fax to 815-436-2592. For more information, call (815) 436-2431.

Letters to the editor must be signed and include the writer’s name and address for verification purposes. Please try to limit your comments to 500 words or less. The editors reserve the right to publish, condense, revise or reject any submissions.

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

Publisher Rich Masterson publisher@buglenewspapers.com Managing Editor Matt Honold mhonold@buglenewspapers.com Reporters Sherri Dauskurdas Rick Kambic Laura Katauskas Debbie Lively Sports Reporters Mark Gregory mgregory@buglenewspapers.com Scott Taylor staylor@buglenewspapers.com Editorial Deadlines Calendar & News: 3 p.m. Monday, three weeks before date of publication Letters to Editor: 9 a.m. Friday www.buglenewspapers.com

nweditor@buglenewspapers.com Vice President of Advertising and Marketing Michael James mjames@voyagermediaonline.com Production Director Andrew Samaan andrew@buglenewspapers.com Advertising Sales sales@buglenewspapers.com Voyager Media Group, Inc. P.O. Box 1613 Plainfield, IL 60585 (815) 436-2431 Fax (815) 436-2592 Ad Deadlines Space and Copy deadlines for Display and Classified Ads is 3 p.m. Friday before date of insertion. classifieds@buglenewspapers.com Legals, Obituaries and Happy Ads are due at 3 p.m. Friday. announcements@buglenewspapers.com

1969. Times have changed. Tax revenue from village businesses has dropped. Federal and state funding have decreased. Our facilities have aged.

Our administrative staff is as small, or smaller than any district around. Dr. Jamie Reilly is among the lowest paid superintendents in northern Cook County. In 2010, Golf district teachers approved pay and benefit concessions to avoid layoffs, and other measures have been taken to cut costs.

We lack programs that neighboring districts take for granted: Hynes students only have science, social studies, music and art for half the year.

Spanish classes don’t begin until 7th grade. We have no gifted program.

The district has considered

alternatives. Nearby districts are not interested in consolidation.

Golf 67 doesn’t have a large enough percentage of lowincome students to qualify for most federal funding, and private grants and PTA fundraising can’t begin to cover the district’s current needs. While no one enjoys paying more taxes, Golf 67’s portion of tax bills for residents would remain lower than in neighboring districts.

With 92% of students meeting or exceeding reading and math standards in state assessment tests, Golf schools are rated among the best in the north suburbs. High scores bring new families to the community, keep property values strong, help to keep families here and were a major factor that got Morton

Grove named “Best Place in the U.S. to Raise Kids.”

Golf 67’s success is due in part to wise commitments that its leaders have made over the years in response to the changes in our community and our world.

When it became clear that most students had two parents who worked outside the home, fullday kindergarten made good sense. Initiatives like Project Lead the Way were introduced to better prepare our children for prosperous futures.

Now is not the time to diminish our investment in Golf 67 schools. Show your support for our community by supporting both referenda on March 20. If you need more information, visit http://www.golf67.net.

Kids 67 Committee

Letter to the Editor

Whose right is it to choose benefits?

It is frustrating for me to watch those of a different political persuasion take a valid issue and twist it into an argument that encourages hostility against anyone opposing their own views. I don’t believe in this type of tactic and I hope you don’t either. I am Tim Wolfe and I am running to unseat Janice Schakowsky as Congresswoman for the IL 9th District.

The issues: Does the Federal government have the constitutional authority to: 1) Require a religious organization to provide a specific employee benefit?

2) Provide a benefit that is an infringement of their 1st Amendment rights, which specifically state that the Federal government shall not abridge the right to the free exercise of religion?

3) Does the President have constitutional authority to mandate that a private company must include certain features in its product (in this case contraceptives)?

I believe the Federal government would infringe on the employer’s right to provide whatever benefit they chose and upon religious organizations 1st Amendment rights if the

coverage was in opposition to an organization’s dogma regardless of whom and how the policies are paid for. I also believe that the President is clearly overstepping his constitutional authority to mandate the features required of any product or service of a private company.

The problem: Jan Schakowsky, in her recent Chicago SunTimes article titled “Republicans: Beware of Angry Women” knowingly misleads the reader and her constituents when she stated, “Republicans, if you are feeling a little nagging doubt about your crusade against birth control, you would be right. And if you aren’t, you would be blind and deaf.” There is no crusade against birth control. But there is a crusade against governmentallymandated health insurance, commonly known as Obama Care. Can Jan Schakowsky name one Republican politician who is attempting to block access to birth control pills? (Note that Schakowsky is clearly disguising the features of sterilization and abortifacients with the idea that we are simply talking about birth control pills). And if your patent answer is radio talk show host Rush Limbaugh, his argument (although poorly

and distastefully worded) is not against contraceptives but against a mandate that the Federal government requiring what must be included in a health insurance policy must be free of charge, although we all know that nothing is free.

Someone, namely the taxpayers, will pay for it.

To the voters of the 9th District, I ask you to carefully analyze the issues that are discussed over the next eight months. Don’t let distorted information inflame your passions unnecessarily. I would also ask you to remember that most issues, like this one, will have an impact on jobs, the #1 issue of the campaign. If you were an employer, would you consider hiring additional employees when the Federal government is requiring you to provide those employees with contraception as part of their compensation? This is America where we are granted the freedom to build a business however we choose as long as we do not infringe upon the rights of others. And choosing whether or not to pay for a benefit is the right of the employer, not the Federal government.

Timothy C. Wolfe Republican Candidate

8

THE BUGLE MARCH 8, 2012

Health & Fitness

Whatever happened to peptic ulcer surgery?

Those of us who are old enough to know who LBJ was or remember when Richard Nixon was president are old enough to remember the epidemic of ulcers in the 1950’s and 1960’s.We all knew someone who had to eat a “bland diet” and swallow liquid antacids by the handful. Many required surgery for control. In fact, during my medical training days, peptic ulcer surgery (known as Bill Roth I, Bill Roth II, and vagotomy) was the most commonly performed surgery. What happened? Are our lives now so perfect that people no longer have ulcers?

Hardly. Peptic ulcers, ulcers of the stomach or duodenum, are still very common but our better understanding of their causes and more effective treatments have greatly decreased their impact on public health. Ulcer diets have gone the way of eight track tapes, and ulcer surgeries are now seldom needed. Two major advances are responsible

for this significant change. First, our medicines are much better.

The first advance was the development of H2 blockers, such as Zantac and Tagamet, in the late 1970’s and early 1980’s.

These products block hormonerelated release of acid in the stomach and are reasonably effective. No acid resulted in no ulcers.Thus, the need for surgery declined. In the following decade proton pump inhibitors such as Prilosec, Protonix and Nexium became available. These medicines actually block the pumping of hydrochloric acid (yes, your stomach produces hydrochloric acid) into the stomach. These agents have proven to be highly effective and decrease acid production by over 90%.The need for ulcer surgeries became almost non-existent.

The second major advancement came from our better understanding of the causes of ulcers. Certain medications such as aspirin and arthritis pain medications are a major cause, but the other major cause is not “stress,” as many believed.

Almost all duodenal ulcers and the majority of stomach ulcers are cause by an infection. The

bacterium, Helicobacter Pylori, has found a way to survive in the very acid environment of the stomach.It is the irritation caused by this bacterium that is thought to provoke the inflammation that eventually leads to an ulcer. Our ability to identify this infection and treat it simply with antibiotics and the proton pump inhibitors (PPI’s) mentioned above has significantly decreased the incidence of ulcers.

As always, there must be some downside to this advance.

Fortunately, there has been relatively few. PPI’s are suspected to decrease the efficacy of Plavix, a medication important to those with coronary artery disease.

Stopping PPI’s quickly may result in a surge of acid production. Also, at the same time ulcers have been decreasing, there has been a corresponding increase in the relatively uncommon cancer occurring at the junction of the stomach and esophagus. There is no proven link, but coincidence has raised suspicions.

Doctor’s RX: If you are experiencing stomach problems, there is no good reason not to pursue medical care. The

Babies build antibodies when sick

By Sue Hubbard, M.D. www.kidsdr.com

I find myself in the office each day amid a host of babies succumbing to their first colds.

I walk into the room and see their little runny noses, their red rimmed eyes and hear their frequent coughs while they sit their mom’s or dad’s laps. The parents, of course, are “worried sick,” but I’m immediately reassured as I watch each brighteyed, stuffed-up infant interact with me.

So it goes in the winter. No one is immune to those nasty cold viruses. Many of these babies have managed to ward off illness for months, but are finally battling their first cold. The babies actually are fairing pretty well, although their parents are both worried and sleep deprived

because young children with colds just don’t sleep well.

Colds are an unfortunate fact of life, but each cold your baby suffers through actually makes him/her a little stronger. The child’s body is making antibodies that combat the virus and help shore up their immune system.

These are small victories amid the myriad of viral infections a child can contract between the ages of 6 and 24 month.

There’s still no real treatment or cure for the common cold.

The recommendations for babies are fairly similar to those for the rest of us: hydration (milk is OK), fever control if they need it, TLC and tincture of time. The first cold is the hardest, at least for the parent.

You can try putting a humidifier in your baby’s room and irrigating the child’s nose

with saline to help clear the mucus and make it easier to breathe. Tylenol for fever, which is common in the first several days of a cold, may also make your baby more comfortable.

After several days, the worst of the cold will be over and your child should feel a little better.

Watch for fever that recurs, or worsening of your baby’s sleep habits or mood, which may signal an ear infection. Most ear infections don’t occur on the first day of a cold, so wait a bit and if the child is not improving, this may warrant a trip to the pediatrician.

Dr. Sue Hubbard is a nationally known pediatrician and co-host of “The Kid’s Doctor” radio show. Submit questions at www.kidsdr.com.

(C) 2012, KIDSDR.COM

treatments are pills, not surgery. consequences.

Please seek medical advice before you take the non-prescription Dr. Christopher Rose, M.D. is a varieties as it may adversely physician and author based in Niles, Illinois. The advice contained in this effect your other medications. column is for informational purposes To avoid any possible long-term only. Readers should consult with their ill effects take only the strength own physician to evaluate any illness you need for as long as you need or medical condition. Contact Dr. Rose it, not longer. This way you can at (847) 965-3200 or visit his web site at: www.cancercenterschicago.com avoid unforeseen long-term

Take 5

THE BUGLE MARCH 8, 2012

H o ro s c o p e s

Across

1 Birthday secret 5 “Back in Black” band 9 Visibly amazed 14 __ Domini 15 Bodybuilder’s supplement 16 Hand-dyeing craft 17 Very narrow fissure?

19 Vintage violin 20 Michael Moore health-care film 21 Melody 23 Rock ‘n’ roll middle name 24 Didn’t sell 26 Landfill in a toy city?

28 CIA part: Abbr.

30 Arthur Fiedler et al.

32 Hamm of soccer 33 Ryder rentals 34 Where eaglets hatch 38 Minuscule tattoo?

40 Dollhouse dress adornment?

42 Opposite of perfect pitch

43 Composer __ Carlo Menotti 44 Transp. group in the Loop 45 Pago Pago people 48 Did a farrier’s job 49 Where to wear a training bra?

52 Lacking spice 54 Chain selling stacks 55 Clue in a case 57 Dip for a chip 60 Mila of “Black Swan” 62 Very young hobo?

64 “Fear of Flying” author Jong 65 Sneaky trick 66 Luke’s sci-fi sister 67 Waterfowl whose young inspired this puzzle’s theme 68 Black stone 69 Enjoys a smorgasbord

Initiative isn’t something for the uninitiated. Luckily, you can overlook a lack of experience and charge forward fearlessly in the week ahead.

Your industry on the job should enrich your bank account.

You can benefit by giving others the benefit of the doubt.

Do not waste time trying to see through people but focus on ways to see people through. This is a week to take advantage of every opportunity.

Line your pockets with gold by being bold. You can make proposals in the week to come that will fall on eager ears. When you speak, people listen - so take advantage of any opportunity to air your ideas.

Learn the lingo. By verbalizing your ideas in a way that resonates with others, you can impress others with your knowledge and expertise. Gain trust in the week ahead by speaking to other people’s needs.

Clean up or make up.

Whatever has fallen by the wayside can be picked up in the week ahead. An apology will be accepted if you take the time to offer it. Revise your goals and plans for the future.

Prove your mettle and earn a medal. Nothing looks better at the end of a game than having more points than an opponent. Your take-charge attitude will win appreciation in the upcoming week.

The past is but prologue.

When one door closes, another opens but in the week to come, be sure that you don’t look so long and regretfully upon the closed door that you do not see the one that has opened.

The simplest solution is often the best. Whatever comes to you effortlessly is beneficial, but you can’t exert your will and force some things into being in the week ahead.

You will want everyone to jump on the bandwagon when you are part of the band. Don’t exclude anyone from your circle, but offer encouragement and educate others in the week ahead.

To move on to the next chapter, you need a blank page.

During the upcoming week, you will be filled with useful and creative ideas to create a prosperous future. Gather support to put ideas into motion.

Your life is lived on a stage. You are the star of your own production, but most key events happen without a rehearsal. During the coming week, go ahead and act on impulse; those who hesitate are lost.

Even a reluctant warrior picks up a weapon when necessary. You must learn to accept the necessity of fighting your way to the top of the food chain. Be aggressive in the week ahead.

Down 1 WWII auxiliaries 2 Calvary inscription 3 Twinkie or Ding Dong 4 Game with sticks 5 Pointy tool 6 Slip in a pot 7 Strips of leaves 8 Swan constellation 9 The N.Y. Nets were its last champion 10 Warren Harding’s middle name 11 Asteroids maker 12 Spike for a mountaineer 13 Squeezing (out) 18 Keystone character 22 Ambulance VIP 25 Bur. of Prohibition employee 27 Shrimp relative 28 Key with no sharps or flats: Abbr.

29 NFL Hall of Famer Marchetti 31 Zambia neighbor: Abbr.

33 Like

megapopular web videos 35 Cardinal who was a foe of the Musketeers 36 Wild about 37 “Zounds!”

39 Unwanted playground game teammate 40 Recycling vessel 41 Brewer’s kiln 43 Yuri who was the first to orbit Earth 46 Wire measure 47 Punch sequence 48 Some tees 49 Pedaled 50 Freedom, in Swahili 51 Part of SST 53 “Antony and Cleopatra” killer 56 Tyne with a Tony and Emmys 58 Salon sound 59 “What __!”: “How fun!”

61 Palindromic airline 63 Tex-__ cuisine©2012

SUDOKU

TRIBUNE MEDIA SERVICES, INC.

Previous puzzle ’s answers

Previous puzzle ’s answers

Previous puzzle ’s answers Jumbles: • BROOK • TUNED • LADING • OSSIFY

Answer:

A successful dress designer is good with this -- “FIGURES”

9

10

THE BUGLE MARCH 8, 2012

Bugle Kids

INSIDE: Notre Dame falls to Evanston, page 13; Jewell Loyd a ‘once in a lifetime’ player for Niles West, page 14

www.nilesbugle.com

THE BUGLE MARCH 8, 2012

11

Hawks down Shamrocks for title

By Mike Sandrolini Sports Reporter

St. Patrick may have had home court advantage and a higher seed going into its regional title matchup against Maine South last Friday. But after all was said and done, it was the Hawks—not the Shamrocks—who hoisted a regional trophy.

BOYS BASKETBALL The sixth-seeded Hawks used a combination of timely scoring and shut-down defense to defeat the No. 3-seeded Shamrocks, 4330, and move on to sectional play for the second time in three years.The Hawks (19-12) squared off with Niles North (20-8) in the Glenbrook South sectional semifinals Wednesday night.

“It’ll be an exciting game,” coach Tony Lavorato said. “The two teams are totally different, and we look forward to the challenge ahead of us.”

If it wins, Maine South would face the winner of the other sectional semifinal, New Trier vs. Evanston (which was played Tuesday) on Friday night.

The Hawks defeated Niles North in late January, 55-53, but Lavorato said past results and seedings don’t mean a thing at this stage of the game— particularly with the expansion to a four-class system in recent years.

“When they doubled the classes, it’s one less game at the front end,” he explained. “Every regional final is essentially a sectional semifinal. All these teams are quality, quality teams.

To win a regional now in this new structure is quite an accomplishment.”

The Hawks, who led 20-12 at halftime, took a 27-21 lead into the fourth quarter. St. Patrick cut Maine South’s lead to five

points twice during the fourth, but the Hawks finished off the Shamrocks with a 9-0 run.

Maine South held the Shamrocks without a field goal for the final five-plus minutes of the game.

“We kept attacking, hit free throws when it mattered and limited them to one shot per possession,” said Lavorato, whose team was 12 of 15 from the stripe during the fourth quarter.

John Solari scored 15 points to lead Maine South, while Frank Dounis added 10.

“We have a great unit,” Lavorato said. “We have a bunch of guys who understand their roles and do their jobs. (For us) it seems to be a puzzle that’s coming together correctly at the right time.”

•It was a balancing act that the Hawks have wanted to see all season.

The Hawks displayed good offensive balance in their regional opener as four players scored in double figures for the first time this year. That opened the gates to a 59-38 victory over Von Steuben of the Chicago Public League.

Junior 6-5 forward Danny Quinn led the way with 15 points, while 6-6 senior center Louis Tsichlis contributed 13.

Solari and Dounis, both juniors, tallied 10 apiece.

Quinn’s three-point play capped a 12-2 Hawks run to open the game. Later, Tsichlis’ short shot off the glass beat the first-quarter buzzer, and the Hawks went on top, 16-3.

In the second quarter, Tsichlis’ three-point play opened up a 26-8 Hawks advantage. The duo combined for 19 points during the first half which lifted the Hawks to a 30-15 lead at intermission.

The Panthers, trying to utilize their athleticism, went man-to-

Photo courtesy of Josie Fioretto

Frank Dounis scored 10 points in each regional game for Maine South.

man and pressed Maine South throughout the first half, but the Hawks had little difficulty breaking their press and converting transition baskets.

“We knew they were going to come out (and pressure us), so we knew the driving lanes would be open and the back-door was going to be open,” Quinn said.

The Hawks also were able to post up on Von Steuben when they ran their offensive sets and frustrated the Panthers with their size.

“We took advantage of mismatches down low and we really spread the floor,” said Tsichlis, who had 11 of his 13 in the first half. “The guards

kept looking in so we just kept finishing.”

The Hawks, who led 20-12 at halftime, took a 27-21 lead into the fourth quarter. St. Patrick cut Maine South’s lead to five twice during the fourth, but the Hawks finished off the Shamrocks with a 9-0 run. mikes@buglenewspapers.com

12

THE BUGLE MARCH 8, 2012

Sports

Evanston holds off Dons ATHLETE OFTHE MONTH Vote for the...

By Mike Sandrolini Sports Reporter

Notre Dame rode the hot hand of Matt Mooney down the stretch of its regional championship showdown against Evanston last Friday.

Mooney drilled a clutch threepointer that pulled the Dons to within two of the Wildkits, 48-46, with 40 seconds to go. Twentyfour seconds later, the Dons’ junior guard made it a one-point game (49-48) after driving in for a layup.

BOYS BASKETBALL Shortly thereafter, Leonard Garron sank one of two free throws with 14.8 seconds for a 50-48 Evanston lead. Notre Dame regained possession and had one final opportunity to either tie the game or win it with a three.

Mooney had a good look from around 12 feet as the clock wound down, but unfortunately couldn’t get a potential game-tying shot to fall. The Wildkits ended up winning, 51-48, and advanced to face top-seeded New Trier in a Glenbrook South sectional semifinal game that was held Tuesday night.

“Yes, it was a good look,” said Notre Dame coachTom Les.“I have to look at the tape. I don’t know if Justin (Halloran) was open on the pick-and-role. The way Matt was scoring, I knew they’d be jumping to him.

“But it was a good game. They came into our place and played awfully hard. I thought early they had momentum; they were playing harder than us (in the first half). I thought the second half we picked it up, but to their credit, we took a lead and they came right back and scored a couple quick buckets.To their credit, they made big plays coming right back at us.”

Following a low-scoring first half in which the Dons trailed 2015 at the break, Notre Dame crept back into the matchup.

The Dons shook off two potential momentum-changing put-back dunks by Evanston’s 6-9 center, Randy Ollie, and Matt Munro during the quarter to take their first lead of the game near the end of the period.

Treys from Halloran and senior Joe Ferrici capped a 12-4 Notre Dame run that put the Dons in front, 33-32, with under a minute remaining in the quarter. But the Wildkits regained a 34-33 third-

quarter lead after Josh Irving drove the lane for a deuce.

“That’s one of their seniors; he refused to lose,” said Evanston coach Mike Ellis, referring to Ferrici. “He battled all night long until he fouled out (in the fourth quarter).”

Evanston appeared to be pulling away during the fourth quarter after the Dons went scoreless for the first 4:51 of the period. Notre Dame didn’t hit its first field goal of the quarter until a Mooney basket with 2:50 left broke the ice.

But Mooney’s bucket and Eddie Serrano’s two free throws helped start a stretch where the Dons outscored the Wildkits, 8-2, and came within two of Evanston, 4543, on Ferrici’s layup off a feed from Mooney.

Serrano’s free throws marked one of the few times during the game that Notre Dame hit consecutive foul shots. The Dons went 12 of 24 at the line.

“We shoot 12 of 24 … I think we were 10 of 22 on Tuesday (in Notre Dame’s regional semifinal win over Glenbrook South),” Les noted. “You’re not going to win a lot of close games when you’re missing free throws like that.”

Ferrici and Mooney each netted 17 points to lead the Dons. Ferrici is one of four seniors on the squad, along with Joey Solita, Jimmy Cravens and Greg Leifel.

“We only had four seniors,” Ferrici said. “We were a younger team, but we worked really hard and we had great chemistry. I love all the guys in the locker room.

I’m going to miss them.”

•Glenbrook South, seeded 13th, was bidding for an upset in the regional semifinals as it led the fourth-seeded Dons, 35-33, at the end of the third quarter. But Notre Dame went on an 11-0 run to begin the final period and went on to win, 52-45.

Mooney set the pace for Notre Dame offensively with 16 points, while Ferrici added 13 and sophomore Duante Stephens 12.

NILES WEST

Niles West hosted its own regional last week, and extended its season by beating Admunsen, 54-40, in a play-in contest.

The 15th-seeded Wolves overcame cold shooting through the first three quarters and went on to build a 10-point lead (45-35) in the fourth after leading by two (35-33) at the end of the third.

Alex Darville, a junior, and sophomore Ahmad Gibson each scored 11 for the Wolves, while junior David McCoy had nine.

The Wolves’ play-in triumph got them a date with No. 1-seed New Trier in the regional semifinals. Niles West gave the Trevians, who came into the game with a 21-5 record, everything they could handle before falling, 39-35.

The Wolves, who finished 7-19, pulled to within three points of the Trevians, 35-32, late in the fourth quarter, but turned the ball over on their next possession, which led to two New Trier free throws. New Trier ended up winning the regional crown and played in this week’s Glenbrook South sectional.

Senior Alek Biser and junior Joe Younan scored 12 and nine points, respectively, for the Wolves, who also say goodbye to seniors Cory Dolins, Muhibb Sadiq, DJ Harris, Dawei Chen, Jonathan Perrenas and Nathan Sagett.

MAINE EAST The Blue Demons finished the year 4-20 following a 58-41 loss to Lane during a play-in game at the St. Patrick regional.

The Demons are losing Aaron Shannon (game-high 16 points) to graduation, but they should be better in 2012-13 with freshman Ezeka Omeke (10 rebounds), junior Evan Nazzal and sophomore Justin Brooks all seeing major minutes throughout the justconcluded season. mikes@buglenewspapers.com

VOTE ONLINE!

Jewell Loyd, Niles West -Scored 3,000th career point

Robby Bain, Bolingbrook -Second in state at 285-pounds

Cullen Cummings, Downers South -Second in state at 132-pounds

Brad Johnson, Lockport -Back-to-back state champ

Abby Smith, Romeoville -10 points, 5 assists, 3 steals per.

Nathan Davis, Plainfield Central -Second place in state at 126-pounds

Vote

for your winner for the Athlete of the Month for February online at www.buglenewspapers.com up until March 12. The winner will be announced in the March 14/15 issue.

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THE BUGLE MARCH 8, 2012

sports

Loyd a ‘once in a lifetime’ player BOYS BOWLING 1. Romeoville 2. Plainfield Central 3. Minooka 4. Lockport 5. Bolingbrook 6. Joliet West 7. Plainfield South

GIRLS BOWLING 1. Minooka 2. Lockport 3. Joliet West 4. Plainfield North 5. Plainfield South 6. Plainfield Central 7. Downers South

BOYS BASKETBALL 1. Plainfield East 2. Downers South 3. Benet 4. Maine South 5. Notre Dame 6. Bolingbrook 7. Joliet West

GIRLS BASKETBALL 1. Bolingbrook 2. Benet 3. Maine South 4. Niles West 5. Plainfield East 6. Romeoville 7. Downers South

WRESTLING 1. Lockport 2. Plainfield Central 3. Minooka 4. Joliet West 5. Downers South 6. Downers North 7. Notre Dame Rankings are compiled by Mark Gregory and Scott Taylor.

I couldn’t help but notice Jewell Loyd as she sat alone at the end of the first row of bleachers behind what was Niles West’s bench following the Wolves’ twopoint sectional semifinal loss to Glenbrook South.

Head bowed, eyes downcast, understandably upset. I felt bad for her. Loyd’s fabulous high school basketball career—one chockfull of All-State and AllAmerican honors, and a litany of dazzling performances—had reached the end of the line.

I’ve witnessed many dominant athletes in over 25 years covering prep sports.

Rarely have I seen one take over a game almost at will like Jewell Loyd.

Is it a stretch for me to say she’s the type of player that comes along once in a generation at a school? I posed that question to Niles West athletic director David Rosengard.

He concurs.

“I think that’s accurate,” Rosengard said. “Once every generation you get someone like this.”

Rosengard was the vice president of marketing and broadcasting for the Chicago Bulls from 1984-1987. His first year with the Bulls just so happened to be one Michael Jeffrey Jordan’s rookie season.

He sees several Jordan-esque traits in Jewell Loyd.

“They’re both obviously unique athletes,” said Rosengard, who started as the school’s AD in July, 2008—a month before Loyd began her freshman year. “(They’re both) high achievers on the basketball court. But what makes them similar is their infectious smile and engaging personalities, and they’re competitive in everything they do.

“When she gets on the court with her teammates, there’s just that passion and fire in her eyes; that killer instinct that she has. She thrives in the spotlight and he (Jordan) thrived in the spotlight. They just rose to the level of competition and that just made them play better.”

This season, Loyd averaged 27.5 points per game—or 63 percent of the Wolves’ 50.3-point average—along with 12.2 rebounds and four steals.

On Feb. 10, Loyd became the seventh player in IHSA girls basketball history to surpass 3,000 points—a feat she achieved with a 42-point, 18-rebound effort while leading Niles West to an overtime victory against, ironically, Glenbrook South, which clinched the CSL South championship. (All told, Loyd scored 3,077 career points.)

Later this month, Loyd will compete in the McDonald’s AllAmerican Game at Chicago’s United Center, as well as the Women’s Basketball Coaches Association all-American Game

in Denver.

Although she won’t be playing, fans might also get a chance to see Loyd at the Voyager Media Prep Shootout 2012 Senior All-Star Game Sunday, March 18 at the Plainfield Central High School.

The games (girls start at 5:30 p.m.; boys at 7:00) feature some of the best boys and girls senior players from the Voyager Media coverage area.

Gold-medal gymnast Bart Conner; Pittsburgh Steelers’ star running back Rashard Mendenhall; Walter Mendenhall, Rashard’s older brother who’s been a member of three NFL teams; Jewell’s older brother, Jarryd, who played for Valparaiso University and professionally in Europe; and New York Yankees’ righthanded pitcher George Kontos, a September call-up last year, are all Niles West products.

Jewell Loyd can now take her place in this short list of elite Wolves’ athletes.

“Jewell’s excelled from day she walked into the door,” Rosengard said. “You take a look at her final stats and

things that she achieved and how she raised the level of play of our kids. She’s had an impact immediately from Day One. That’s unusual and that’s special.”

Although Loyd’s high school career is in the books, she’ll not be far away from her alma mater.

Later this year, Niles West’s crown Jewell takes her talents to South Bend, Ind. and joins a Notre Dame squad that’s currently ranked third in the country in the USA Today/ESPN Top 25 Coaches Poll.

Could we one day see Jewell Loyd helping to lead the Fighting Irish to an NCAA championship? Or perhaps playing for the U.S. Olympic team or a WNBA club?

“I think she’s got a shot to make Olympic team and (the) WNBA,” Rosengard replied, “But obviously it’s a long road to those. There’s an adjustment for any freshman no matter who they are.”

Thanks for the memories, Jewell. I’m sure there will be plenty more. mikes@buglenewspapers.com

ame G OF THE WEEK presents

Bringing you the top game of the week in the Voyager Media coverage area.

www.buglenewspapers.com/basketball

THE BUGLE MARCH 8, 2012

15

Three schools claim regionals

By Scott Taylor Sports Reporter

The sign of a great team is winning when you aren’t at your best and facing adversity.

Plainfield East (27-1) proved that it was a great team Friday night after overcoming a rough night offensively to beat Neuqua Valley at Neuqua Valley 4745 in the Neuqua Regional Championship.

The Bengals, the No. 1 seed in the East Aurora Sectional, face No. 4 seed West Aurora Tuesday.

The winner advances to Friday’s sectional title. No Plainfield boys hoops team has ever won a sectional game.

The win marked the first regional title for East in any sport, and once the buzzer sounded, was more of a relief than jubilation.

East held on to narrow leads at the end of each quarter (13-11, 22-20, 37-33). Its biggest lead was 34-27 late in the third quarter.The Bengals held a 42-36 lead in the fourth, but missed free throws (6-of-16 for the game) kept the Wildcats alive.

The lead was sliced to one at 46-45 when Dee Brown made one of two free throws with 37.8 seconds left. Neuqua took a lot of time off the clock before a miss and Jawan Straughter was fouled with 6.6 seconds left. He missed the front end of a 1-and-1 and Neuqua grabbed the rebound, but a halfcourt heave was long.

Brown led the way with 17 points. Brian Bennett added 13 points and 11 rebounds and Myles Walters contributed 10 points.

•As one of four senior starters

playing their final home game for Downers Grove South, Jamall Millison was determined to make sure it wasn’t the last game of their high school careers.

Millison scored nine of his 17 points, all on three-pointers, in the decisive third quarter as the Mustangs rallied to beat upsetminded Hinsdale Central 64-51 Friday night to win their second consecutive Class 4A regional championship.

Second-seeded Downers South (23-5) advances to the East Aurora Sectional semifinals, where it will face No. 3 seed Metea Valley (24-4), which edged Benet 45-44, tonight at 7:30 p.m.

“It means a lot to me as a senior and I know [also for] the rest of them because this is our last time ever playing here,” Millison said.

“So we wanted to go out with a win for everybody and give the fans a good show.”

The fans got a good show, albeit one a little more nervewracking than it would have liked. The Mustangs had beaten No. 10 seed Hinsdale Central 7156 on this same floor nine days before, but the Red Devils (17-10) came out hustling and stymied Downers South’s offense, forcing the Mustangs into taking tough shots.

The Red Devils led 19-11 with 5:17 left in the second quarter before senior Kevin Honn got the rally started by sinking a three-pointer from the right corner. The visitors were still up by seven before the Mustangs tallied the last seven points of the half to forge a 24-24 halftime tie.

•Maine South’s boys basketball team advances to sectional play

for the first time in two years this week after handing No. 3-seeded St. Patrick a 43-30 loss on its home court in the regional championship Friday night.

The Hawks, who led 20-12 at halftime, took a 27-21 lead into the fourth quarter. St. Patrick cut Maine South’s lead to five twice during the fourth, but the Hawks finished off the Shamrocks with a 9-0 run.

John Solari scored 15 points to lead Maine South, while Frank Dounis added 10.

Maine South (19-12), seeded sixth, will square off with Niles North (20-8) in the Glenbrook South sectional semifinals at 7:30 p.m. Wednesday. The Hawks defeated Niles North in late January, 55-53.

•Evanston put an end to the Dons’ 2011-12 basketball season at Friday night’s Notre Dame regional title game, holding off a late charge by the host team to win, 51-48.

The Dons (20-9) took their only lead of the contest, 33-32, late in the third quarter on threepointers from Justin Halloran and Joe Ferrici. Evanston regained the lead at the end of the quarter and kept it despite Notre Dame coming within two points (4543) and one point (49-48) late in

the game.

Notre Dame had a chance to tie it, but Matt Mooney couldn’t get a jumper to fall just before the horn sounded. Mooney and Ferrici each finished with 17 points for the Dons. The Wildkits advance to face top-seeded New Trier in a Glenbrook South sectional semifinal game Tuesday night.

•For the second time this season, free throws played a big part in a loss for Joliet West.

Unfortunately for the Tigers, the 45-41 loss to Thornton came in the regional final and ended their season.

West (17-10) finished the game 16-for-30 from the free throw line.

“Free throws came back to haunt us,” said West coach Luke Yaklich. “Free thrown hurt us in two games this year, West Aurora and then this one. It came down to free throw shooting. I tip my hat to Thornton, they played hard all game and in a four-point game, it is going to come down to free throws.

“We had our opportunities to win, I thought we executed very well down the stretch. We got great looks, but we did not make free throws and we did not make shots in the lane. We missed a lot

PLAYER OF THE WEEK

Dee Brown, Plainfield East 17 points in regional final win

Kevin Honn, Downers S. 20 points in regional final win

John Solari, Maine South 15 points in regional final win

Pat McInerney, Benet 17 second half pts in semi win

Go to buglenewspapers.com to vote for your winner!

Results here next week!

SPONSORED BY

of bunnies tonight.”

One of those bunnies, was a Marlon Johnson dunk with 27 seconds left to play that would have tied the game.

Joliet West was down 17-16 at the intermission and after Johnson picked up his third personal foul less than a minute into the second half. That forced him to the bench for nearly six minutes in which the Wildcats opened the game to a 10-point lead and held a 31-26 lead after three.

“As a coach, we wanted to get him a couple minutes,” Yaklich said about Johnson.

“We got him a couple minutes and unfortunately those couple minutes let them stretch the lead to a point where we had to work to get back the whole rest of the game.”

After the Tigers cut the lead to 40-34 with 2 minutes, 55 seconds left to play, Thornton didn’t connect on another field goal, but unlike West, the Wildcats were 5-for-6 from the free-throw line in the closing minutes.

Junior Morris Dunnigan led Joliet West with 16 points, while Johnson tallied 13 points and Brandon McCullum added seven.

Matt Le Cren, Mike Sandrolini and Mark Gregory also contributed.

LAST WEEK’S RESULTS

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THE BUGLE MARCH 8, 2012

Business & Real Estate

If you want more money, redefine your scope Q. I’m in a field that is not highly paid.

I’m tired of working long hours and doing hard work for a small paycheck.

Is there any way to take my current skills and make more money?

A.Yes, stop thinking of yourself as your job title. Instead, redefine yourself as a professional with a toolkit full of skills.

Start by making a list of everything you know how to do and have done. Now make a list of every job you can imagine that would benefit from these types of skills. If you have trouble

brainstorming, do an Internet search or look at occupational handbooks that list skills for different jobs.

When you get done with your research, you should have a list of many new job titles other than the one you currently possess to explore jobs with a higher salary.

Now consider your life circumstances and your flexibility about where you live and work.

The wider the geographic net you can cast, the more job opportunities you will have.

Make sure you note jobs that use your special skills that are more plentiful and often have openings. You’ll increase your chances of getting a better paid job if you know there are more of these types of

opportunities.

Now do research on the companies that hire people for these jobs. Find out if they have online applications, and start getting your resume out to as many companies as you can identify. Also consider whether there are professional associations for people within these departments and go to some meetings.Personal contacts are always your best entry into a new job.

Some people think making money is simply luck or an Ivy League education. The truth is that neither luck nor a prestigious degree guarantees a higher salary. In today’s economy, every employee needs to see himself or herself as an entrepreneur. Your company

may be bought out, and the needs of your industry may change, but your skill set can stay relevant if you don’t rigidly identify with your job title.

Even when you are happy with your salary and job, keep your eyes open to changes in your industry. Look for new ways to apply the old tools you already have. Be keenly aware that the rapid pace of change has created two classes of employees: those who get run over by the wave of change and those who ride the wave of change to the career of their dreams. Be the latter.

The last word(s) Q. I work with a guy that constantly whines about his problems and expects our team

to pity him and do his work. Is there a downside to pointing out that his complaining makes him look like a 2-year-old?

A. Yes, you’ll end up looking like the scolding parent. Ignore his pleas for pity and trust that the rest of the team will get fed up with feeling sorry for him.

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

Get rid of $7,000 debt, but don’t lose relationship war Dear Dave, I got divorced recently, and have custody of our children who are 12 and 17. I’m lucky enough to be debt-free, and I own the house we’re living in, which is worth about $350,000. I also have $160,000 in savings, and we receive $1,200 in child support every month. People are all telling me I should be investing, but each one tells me to do a different kind of investing. What do you suggest?

Mary Dear Mary, I know going through a divorce has got to be hard on you and your kids. Make sure you spend lots of time hugging on them and letting them know they’re loved. Fortunately, things are still pretty good in your world in a financial sense. Your net worth is a half-million dollars, plus you have no debt. Most ladies don’t find themselves as lucky moneywise after a divorce.

Don’t do too much with the $160,000 right now. Just park $100,000 of it in a CD for a year until you get over the shock of

everything that has happened.

You won’t make much money, but you won’t lose anything, either. Then, take the remaining $60,000, and invest it in good growth stock mutual funds – ones that are very conservative and have at least a 10-year track record of success.

You’ve also got to take a look down the road and decide what you want to do with the rest of your life. You’re going to be an empty-nester is a few years. Do you want to go back to school or maybe start your own business?

You’ve got a little learning to do about investing, too.Taking a year or so will allow for education and thinking about what you want out of life. Knowledge has a way of erasing fear. Plus, you’ve got a responsibility to your kids

to invest this money wisely.

When everything settles down a bit, just take your time, find a good investment professional with the heart of a teacher,

and make sure you don’t put money into anything you don’t understand. Spend lots of time loving on your kids, too. That’ll help with the healing process as

much as anything.

—Dave For more financial help please visit daveramsey.com.

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Legal Notices

Legal Notices

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Legal Notices

Legal Notices

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THE BUGLE MARCH 8, 2012

Senior Lifestyle

Tips on “quirky” taxes for retirement accounts

By Jill Schlesinger Tribune Media Services

The Super Bowl is over and baseball season hasn’t yet begun, so you know what that means - it’s tax time! Hold the groans, please. Maybe you thought your tax prep would get less complicated once you stopped working, but preparing taxes in retirement can be quirky.

First the good news: Uncle Sam is giving everyone two extra days to file. Taxpayers will have until Tuesday, April 17, to file their returns because April 15 falls on a Sunday, and Monday, April 16, is Emancipation Day, a Washington DC holiday.

I field many questions about the taxation of retirement accounts, so let’s start there.When you turn 70 1/2, you must take Required Minimum Distributions (RMDs) from retirement accounts (other than Roth IRAs). The rules for this are very IRS-esque, which

Niles Senior Center Advanced registration is generally required for programs.

ITAC Amplified Phones, Tuesday, March 13 10AM-Noon, Appointment required If you have hearing difficulty, you can try out an amplified phone. These phones are FREE to those who qualify for this State of Illinois program. To schedule an appointment or find out more information, contact the Senior Center 847 588-8420.

2nd Annual Hearing Fair, Friday, April 13, 9:00AM-12Noon, FREE Admission/Open to all The Niles Senior Center, in conjunction with the Schaumburg Township Disability Services will be present with multiple vendors demonstrating low hearing products and services. Speakers and demonstrations include Canine Companions instructing how dogs can help persons with hearing loss live independently; types of hearing loss; and the latest technological advances in hearing loss equipment.

Guild for the Blind presents NEW VISION Workshops FREE Presented by Polly Abbot, Low Vision, Mobility, & Orientation

means they are confusing. You must begin withdrawing funds from your retirement accounts

by April 1 of the year following the year in which you turn age 70 1/2. For all subsequent years, including the first RMD year, you have to take your distribution by December 31.

RMDs exist for a very simple reason: Uncle Sam wants his money. Your retirement contributions haven’t been taxed, so the government is anxious to take its share. So anxious, in fact, that failure to take your RMD can result in a serious penalty - a 50 percent tax levied on the amount not withdrawn - ouch!

How do you calculate your RMD? For many, the answer is “who cares?” because brokerage firms, IRA custodians and retirement plan administrators usually calculate the RMD for you.

Still, the IRS reminds us that “the IRA or retirement plan account owner is ultimately responsible

for calculating the amount of the RMD.”To double-check the math, take the December 31 balance of your IRA or retirement plan account and divide it by your life expectancy factor, found in the ever-fascinating IRS Publication 590.

If you have multiple IRA accounts, you can calculate the RMD separately for each one, but you can withdraw the total amount from just one. Note that if you never rolled over your 401(k) or 457(b) plans, you will have to take your RMD separately from each of those plan accounts.

Next it’s time to consider potential taxation of Social Security benefits if you have other income from part-time work, or taxable interest and dividend income. Here’s how it works: If you are single and your “combined income” (your adjusted gross income + nontaxable interest + 1/2 of your

Social Security benefits) is more than $34,000, up to 85 percent of your benefits may be taxable. If you are married filing jointly, and your combined income is more than $44,000, up to 85 percent of your benefits may be taxable.

No one pays federal income tax on more than 85 percent of Social Security benefits. If you do have to pay taxes on your Social Security benefits, you can make quarterly estimated tax payments to the IRS or have federal taxes withheld.

Some other things to keep on your tax prep list: - The Credit for the Elderly or the Disabled is a credit for people age 65 and older, or people under 65 who are retired on total disability or receving taxable disability income. Check IRS Publication 524 to see if you qualify.

- If you itemize your deductions, you may be able to claim a deduction for medical expenses.

You can only deduct the portion of your 2011 medical expenses that exceed 7.5 percent of your adjusted gross income (IRS Publication 502). You can also include amounts paid for qualified long-term care services and premiums paid for qualified long-term care insurance contracts.

Although it’s easy to beat up on the IRS, let me plug the government’s searchable and easy-to-navigate website, www. irs.gov. For both the layman and the tax pro, it’s the definitive source. Finally, remember that while tax time is onerous, at least it only happens once a year!

Specialist. There are still two workshops available. Join us for one or both. Your family member or friend is welcome to attend also. Advanced registration is required.

Workshop Two: Magnifier Madness, Wednesday, March 14, 11:30-12:30 Topics: Maximizing remaining vision; Learning about magnifiers; Experimenting with electronic magnification.

Workshop Three: Maintaining Your Lifestyle, Wed., March 21, 11:30-12:30 Topics: Dining with confidence; Communicating with friends and family; Finding local resources.

Yoga is all about flexibility, and we can be flexible whether we sit in a chair, hold on to a chair to do standing poses, or even if we use the chair to do supine poses April 5-26 $24M/$29NM May 3-31 $30M/$35NM June 7-28 $24M/$29NM July 5-26 $24/$29NM

WEEKLY EMAIL CONTEST!!!

Make sure you’re on our email list! Every week, there will be a drawing for a $5.00 gift certificate toward any program, class, or trip. All you need to do is make sure you’re on our email list. You will receive info on our newest trips, fantastic programs and variety of classes! Please call (847)588-8420 to get into the weekly drawing!

Last call for tickets!!St. Joe’s/ St. Pat’s Party, Friday, March 16, 11:30-2:30PM $15M/$20NM Niles Senior Men’s Club invites you to join in the fun of this annual celebration. This year’s menu will feature corned beef, cabbage, & potatoes. Our afternoon’s entertainment will feature Enzo Incandela. The afternoon will also include door prizes. Seating is reserved so be sure to pick up your Table Reservation Form at the Front Desk.

Senior Freeze Applications Walk-in assistance in filing the Senior Freeze Application is available Tuesday and Thursday afternoons from 2:00PM-4:00PM. No appointment is necessary.

through an array of programs, activities, trips and services.

Members receive a discount on all programs, activities, and trips, Program Calendar & Newsletter six times per year, information on local, state, and federal issues affecting seniors, and invitations to special events and presentations. Membership dues are $20 for an individual and $35 for a couple/household for a full year. Call North Shore Senior Center in Morton Grove at 847.470.5223 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. or stop by the Senior Center, 6140 Dempster Street in Morton Grove, to become a member.

Lunch & Bingo! Wednesdays 10:30 – Noon Enjoy an exciting game of

Yoga in Chairs, Instructor Andrea Lubershane, Thursdays, 10:45-11:45AM You provide the body, and we’ll provide a way to increase your flexibility, strength and balance.

Beginning Conversational Spanish,Wednesdays,April 4-May 9 10-11AM Registration deadline is March 26. $30M/$35NM Instructor: Lisa Basset of Oakton Community College. For more information, contact Jaymi.

Annual Rummage Sale The Rummage Sale date is Saturday, April 21 from 9 AM-1 PM – so mark your calendars!

There are over 40 vendors who will be selling a wide variety of items.

There will be a $2 Hot Dog Lunch available (while supplies last) and a raffle with 50% going to the winner and 50% split between the American Cancer Society and the Niles Food Pantry. For more information, contact Jaymi.

North Shore Senior Center Senior Center Membership Become a member of North Shore Senior Center in Morton Grove and enjoy opportunities to live longer,happier,healthier lives

Jill Schlesinger, CFP, is the Editor-atLarge for www.CBSMoneyWatch.com.

She covers the economy, markets, investing or anything else with a dollar sign on her podcast and blog, Jill on Money, as well as on television and radio. She welcomes comments and questions at askjill@moneywatch. com.

See CENTERS, page 23

THE BUGLE MARCH 8, 2012

CENTERS Continued from page 22 Bingo, a tasty lunch and great company! Lunch and Bingo takes place every Wednesday.

Lunch is catered by a different local restaurant each week.

Bingo begins at 10am, and lunch is served at 11:30. Fee is $6 for members and $8 for non-members each week and includes one Bingo card per person, plus lunch from a local restaurant or caterer. To register, call North Shore Senior Center in Morton Grove at 847.470.5223 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. or stop by the Senior Center, 6140 Dempster Street in Morton Grove Date Restaurant Menu February 29 Jasper’s Café Chicken BLT, Chicken or Tuna salad Sandwich & soup Flashpoints: Hot Topics & Discussion – February 28,March 27 Explore issues, perspectives and insights into the pressing issues of the moment with other informed people from your community! To register, call North Shore Senior Center in Morton Grove at 847.470.5223 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. or stop by the Senior Center, 6140 Dempster Street in Morton Grove Lunch & A Movie – March 1 Enjoy a croissant sandwich lunch and Midnight in Paris! This Academy Award© Nominated romantic comedy starring Owen Wilson is about a family traveling to the French capital for business. The party includes a young engaged couple forced to confront the illusion that a life different from their own is better. Rated PG-13. $6 members, $8 non-members.

Advance registration required.

To register, call North Shore Senior Center in Morton Grove at 847.470.5223 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. or stop by the Senior Center, 6140 Dempster Street in Morton Grove.

To Bead or Knot & BeadMarch 5 Craft a necklace in this two hour session from 1 – 3 p.m. on March 5! No prior experience, skill or materials or required!

Expert beader Carole Grove will inspire you to unleash your creative side and have fun while learning a new craft. Participants are welcome to bring broken strands of beads to integrate into a new creation. Fees are $10 member; $12 nonmember.

To register, call North Shore

Senior Center in Morton Grove at 847.470.5223 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. or stop by the Senior Center, 6140 Dempster Street in Morton Grove.

Mindful Movements – March 6 “Mindful Movements” is a class designed to teach the benefits of stretching and deep breathing. Regular stretching has benefits that range from increasing flexibility to helping relieve arthritis pain, while deep breathing helps to relax the body and lower stress levels.

This gentle movement class is guaranteed to make you feel refreshed and relaxed. Class is held from 11:30 – 12 p.m.

March 6 – April 24. Fees are $39 member; $45 nonmember.

To register, call North Shore Senior Center in Morton Grove at 847.470.5223 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. or stop by the Senior Center, 6140 Dempster Street in Morton Grove.

Facebook, Twitter & More – March 7 What are Facebook, Twitter and Google +? Join us on March 7 at 1 p.m. to learn more! Social media has exploded in recent years. This demonstration will acquaint you with some of the most popular social media to help you understand what it is and how you use it. Learn the risks and benefits and for participants.

This session is free but registration is required.

To register, call North Shore Senior Center in Morton Grove at 847.470.5223 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. or stop by the Senior Center, 6140 Dempster Street in Morton Grove.

Famous First Ladies: Mary Todd Lincoln, Eleanor Roosevelt, Jackie Kennedy – March 12 Celebrate Women’s History Month with some extraordinary women on March 12 from 1-3 p.m. We Americans have always been fascinated by the White House--a symbol of power and prestige of our country.We know so much about the Presidents and the families who lived there from our history books, and more recently movies and television. But most of what we read or see is about the public personas of those people. Join Jenny Riddle as she dramatizes, in character, the personal lives of three remarkable First Ladies.

Hillary Clinton might even stop in for a chat. Afterwards enjoy a lovely tea. Fees are $9 member; $11 nonmember. To register, call North Shore Senior Center in

Morton Grove at 847.470.5223 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. or stop by the Senior Center,6140 Dempster Street in Morton Grove.

Benefits Eligibility Check-up – March 31 Are you receiving all of the benefits you have earned?

Enhance your knowledge of programs available to help seniors- some might be able to help you! Spend some time with North Shore Senior Center social service experts and find out what you might be missing. This session is free but registration is required. To register, call North Shore Senior Center in Morton Grove at 847.470.5223 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. or stop by the Senior Center, 6140 Dempster Street in Morton Grove.

Health Screenings Morton Grove Family and Senior Services Department offers health screenings available at the American Legion Memorial Civic Center, 6140 Dempster Street.

Diabetes screenings and blood pressure screening will be held every Tuesday from 9 -11am. Both are free of charge. Cholesterol Screening will be held the first Wednesday of each month. Cost: $10 for residents over age 65.

There is a $12 fee for residents under 65 and for non-residents.

Swedish Covenant Hospital will be providing cholesterol screenings. Appointments are necessary. Call 847.470.5223 for an appointment.

Podiatry Screening/Nail Care Dr. Jeffrey Garrard will provide basic foot care and nail clipping on the first Tuesday of each month between 10 am and noon.

Cost: Medicare will be billed.

Non-Medicare clients will be charged $35.00. Appointments are required. Call 847.470.5223 for more information or to make an appointment.

2012 AARP Income Tax Preparation Income tax assistance is available free of charge for residents who are age 60 or older and who have low or moderate incomes. Volunteers trained by the IRS will assist you in completing Federal and State of Illinois returns. This service is by appointment only beginning February 6, 2012. Contact the Senior Hotline at 847.470.5223 to make an appointment.

Park Ridge Senior Center Some of the March events at the Park Ridge Senior Center includes the Irish Sweepstakes, a “Day at the Races” starting at 12:30pm and runs to 3:30pm on Thursday March 29 for only $15.00.

Participants watch actual filmed horse races and place bets to win great prizes, A box lunch is included

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Chicago and Indianapolis. The tour, lunch and motor coach transportation are included in the ticket price.

There may still be space for the Debbie and Doyle Show which leaves at 10:30am on Wednesday, March 28. This country and western comedy is playing at the Royal George Theatre which includes all original music and has received rave reviews. Lunch at Maggiano’s is included in the price of $88.00.

The April Just Lunch is scheduled for !2:30 on Monday, April 2. April’s lunch will be hearty Sloppy Joes and Coleslaw for only $6.00. After lunch stay to play cards or visit with friends.

The lunch is limited to 60 people so sign up soon.

Money Matters with Chris Valentine meets again at 10 am on Monday, March 19. He is from Edward Jones and presents a program of financial tips and answers our questions. There is no charge.

The next monthly Park Ridge Police breakfast club meets again at 9 am on Tuesday, March 20. A free breakfast is provided courtesy of Panera and the Jewel.

This program covers topics of current interest to seniors. There is no charge but let the center know if you plan to attend by calling 847-692-3597,

Opera Arts will see Giuseppe Verdi’s “La Traviata” beginning at noon on Thursday, March 22. This is a new production from Paris, with each of the acts at easily identifiable memorable locations.

The program is subtitled in English. Refreshments will be served following the program.

A trip to Fair Oaks Farm leaves the center at 8 am on Wednesday, March 21, returning at 6 pm at a cost of $75.00. Visit and find out about real sustainable dairy farming at the farm located in Indiana halfway between

The computer club will meet from 1:30-2:30, on Wednesday, March 7. Need a computer refresher…or just help learning the computer???

Join the computer club and come with your questions.

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THE BUGLE MARCH 8, 2012