Aurora Times September Issue

2 Aurora Times

Aurora Times 3 fountain. he garden was originally built in the 1930's and underwent a massive renovation in 2002. he park also features a beautiful waterfall, WWI can‐ nons and related memorabilia, tennis courts, children's playgrounds and picnic pavilions. More information on Phillips Park is available by click‐ ing here or by calling (630) 256-INFO (4636) Location: Phillips Park, 1000 Ray Moses Dr., Aurora Business BeatPhillips Park Summer hancements and the highly popular BMX/skate Park. Seize the FutureAmenities Have Something Five acres of underutilized park land were used as part Development Foundation -For Everyone of the construction. economic development in Aurora, Illinois.he \"crown jewel\" of Aurora's parks - Phillips Park-of‐ Your four-legged friends have nearly three acres tofers a variety of fun, family amenities for all ages and in‐ roam off-leash in the gated dog park. he Mastodon Seize the Future is a progressive, dynamic economic de‐terests. Trail was extended to provide a walking path to the dog velopment partnership dedicated to expanding eco‐ park. nomic opportunities in Aurora and developing a sus‐he 325 acre park, located at 1000 Ray Moses Drive, is tainable community for its residents. Embracinghome to a zoo, golf course, aquatic center, and several he Mastodon Trail/Boat dock features a one-mile Aurora's rich history and cultural boom, Seize the Fu‐newer features that make it a regional tourist destina‐ walking, running and biking path that encircles ture Development Foundation leverages partnershipstion. Mastodon Lake. It features ive itness stations for pa‐ between public and private sectors to attract and ex‐ trons - including an elliptical cross trainer, a two-per‐ pand commercial, industrial, retail and mixed-use ven‐At the Phillips Park Zoo, visitors can come up close son leg press and rowing machine. A loating dock sys‐ tures that stimulate the economy, create job opportuni‐with approximately 100 different animals representing tem was installed to help launch boats, canoes and ties and strengthen the community.41 different species including bald eagles, a red tailed kayaks into Mastodon Lake, a 28 acre ishing lake.hawk, great horned owls, gray wolves, cougars, and Many invasive weeds were removed from the shoreline A river community located 40 miles west of Chicago,more. Admission to the zoo is free and tours are and replanted with native plants as part of restoration Aurora is the second largest city in Illinois with a popu‐offered. effort. lation of over 200,000. Aurora has long been a trans‐ portation hub with easy access to Interstate 88, two Me‐he championship caliber Phillips Park Golf Course is a Sand volleyball enthusiasts now have a third court to tra stations, and a regional airport. In addition to a richfun and exciting 18-hole course that provides a wide test their skills and concrete beanbag platforms have manufacturing history and strong industrial roots, Au‐range of challenge for golfers of varying abilities. With been installed. Patrons just need to bring their own rora has become a commercial and entertainment desti‐three sets of tees, the course can range from 4760 yards beanbags. Sotball ield enhancements include outield nation. Emerging from the industrial recession of theto 6200 yards and depending upon wind conditions, pin fencing, two new scoreboards, lights and an ADA-ac‐ 1980's, Aurora is experiencing an amazing revitalizationplacement, and selected tees, the course can change cessible concrete concourse that were built at the park's with expanding commercial and industrial develop‐identities from day to day. two existing sotball ields. ment, riverfront and downtown redevelopment and an eclectic cultural scene.he Phillips Park Family Aquatic Center is jointly- he 8,000-square-foot BMX/skate Park is one of theowned by the City of Aurora and the Fox Valley Park premiere facilities of its type in the entire Chicago areaDistrict. It offers a variety of pools, slides, and kid- and features various obstacles that test both beginnerfriendly swimming areas along with sand volleyball and experienced BMX'ers and skateboarders.courts and a full service concession area. In conjunctionwith the aquatic center, children under the age of 13 can At the David and Karen Stover Visitor's Center, patronsplay in jets of water at the Phillips Park splash pad lo‐ can check out the mastodon bones that were unearthedcated outside the David and Karen Stover Visitor's Cen‐ in the park during a 1934 Civil Works Administrationter. project. he largest of the artifacts, a mastodon skull, weighs 188 pounds. Also on display are mastodon bones estimated to be between 10,000 and 20,000 years old.he park's West End Development project includes a Outside the visitor's center is the breathtaking Sunkendog park, boat docks, shoreline restoration, Mastodon Garden featuring annuals, ornamental grasses, shrubs,Trail spur addition, volleyball court, sotball ield en‐ topiaries, a multi-level walkway, and a 3-tiered lighted

4 Aurora TimesFree Bug Fest returns Aug.22 to Lippold Park and RedOak Nature CenterBATAVIA - Insects and the fascinating world of bugswill take center stage from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Saturday,Aug. 22, when the sixth annual Bug Fest is held at Lip‐pold Park and Red Oak Nature Center.he free, family-friendly event will feature fun and edu‐cational experiences with a swarm of bug-related activi‐ties, demonstrations and crats. In addition to LippoldPark and Red Oak, the event will utilize the one-halfmile stretch of the Fox River Trail that connects the twofacilities.Visitors can begin their explorations at either Red Oakor Lippold; both sites will have free guide books andmaps available. Additionally, T-shirts, books, snacksand other novelty items will be for sale at Lippold.Children and adults alike will learn about the beneitsof bugs and the important roles they play such as polli‐nating plants and lowers, aerating the soil and servinga major role in facilitating the food chain for humans.\"Bugs hold a bit of intrigue for everybody, and they'reoten misunderstood,\" said Red Oak naturalist and fa‐cility supervisor Margaret Gazdacka. \"hey're actuallypretty amazing creatures that play a huge role innature.\"Red Oak will feature free presentations (9, 10, 11 andnoon) by entertainer and educator David Stokes and his\"Arthropods for Fun\" show. Also on hand at Red Oakwill be a team of artists known as \"Waxed Hands\" tocreate wax molds of hands and babies' feet for $5.Local beekeeper Harry Patterson will be at the PredatorPavilion to discuss how bees make honey and explaintheir important role in nature. Various varieties of hon‐ey will be available for sale.At Lippold, Terminix will have an extensive bug exhibitin \"he Hive,\" which also will have face painting from11 a.m. to 1 p.m. and the Mealworm 500 (think bugsand racing). Displays and insect collections - includinghands-on experiences with real, live bugs - will beamong the highlights.Subway will be at Lippold selling small sandwiches,chips and drinks. TCBY will have yogurt available aswell. Transactions are cash only.Parking is available at either Lippold or Schneider Ele‐mentary School (304 Banbury Road, North Aurora),with free shuttle buses running regularly between thosesites and Red Oak. he Red Oak parking lot will offerhandicap parking only.For more information on Bug Fest, visit www.foxvalley‐parkdistrict.org or call Red Oak at 630-897-1808.Guidebooks and coloring sheets can be downloadedfrom the website as well.

Aurora Times 5State health and rubella, haemophilus inluenza type b, hepatitis b, and respiratory, gastrointestinal, genito-urinary, neurologi‐education agencies issue varicella, as well as pneumococcal and now meningo‐ cal, and musculoskeletal evaluations; spinal examina‐reminder for coccal (depending on age) vaccinations. For more in‐ tion; evaluation of nutritional status; lead screening;immunizations formation about immunizations, including vaccination and other evaluations deemed necessary by the health schedules, visit http://www.dph.illinois.gov/topics-ser‐ care provider. Illinois' health exam requirements areAs students are preparing to head back to school, the vices/prevention-wellness/immunization. aligned with recommendations by the Advisory Com‐Illinois State Board of Education (ISBE) and the Illinois mittee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) on adoles‐Department of Public Health (IDPH) encourage par‐ \"Although we are seeing fewer cases of many vaccine- cent vaccinations.ents and guardians to ensure their children's immuniza‐ preventable diseases, if we don't continue to vaccinatetions are up to date. here is a new school-entrance im‐ our children, we will see an uptick and more people be‐ hese student health requirements for entry apply to allmunization requirement for the upcoming school year. come infected. We could experience another outbreak schools in Illinois - public, charter, or private. Parents Beginning this fall, a meningococcal conjugate vacci‐ similar to the measles outbreak which occurred in Illi‐ and guardians should contact their health care provider,nation (MCV4) requirement becomes effective for stu‐ nois earlier this year,\" said IDPH Director Nirav D. local health department, or pharmacy to schedule andents entering grades six or 12. Sixth-graders must Shah, M.D., J.D. \"Vaccines have been proven to be a safe appointment to receive the recommended and requiredshow proof of one dose of MCV4; 12th-graders must and effective way to keep children protected against a vaccinations. It is important to keep an immunizationshow proof of having received two doses. Twelth- number of diseases.\" record card for your child's entry into school.graders who received the irst dose ater 16 years of ageneed only one dose. August marks National Immunization Awareness IDPH offers additional immunization information on Month, which aims to educate people of all ages about its website. here is also the Illinois Help Me GrowIn addition, any child entering kindergarten, sixth the importance of protecting their health by being im‐ helpline at 1-800-323-GROW (voice and TTY) for ad‐grade or ninth grade for the irst time shall show proof munized against infectious diseases. ditional immunization information. For parents whoof having received two doses of varicella (chickenpox) may not be able to afford immunizations, the Vaccinesvaccine. IDPH's Immunization Quick Reference Guide In addition to immunizations, all students enrolling in for Children program provides vaccines at no cost toprovides additional details about the 2015-16 require‐ kindergarten -- in a public or private school -- and any children from low-income families. For information,ments. student enrolling for the irst time in Illinois (with the call (312) 746-6050 in Chicago or (217) 785-1455 for exception of preschoolers) must also have an eye exami‐ the rest of the state.\"Immunizations are in place to protect students and nation. he eye exam needs to be performed by a li‐their families,\" said State Superintendent of Education censed optometrist or medical doctor who performs For additional information about immunizations in Illi‐Tony Smith, Ph.D. \"It's important that our students stay eye exams and is licensed by the Illinois Department of nois, visit:healthy so they can remain in the classroom, continuing Financial and Professional Regulation. All eye examsto learn and grow throughout the year.\" must be completed within one year prior to Oct. 15. • ISBE's School Health Issues: http://www.isbe.net/ school_health.htm#immu • Administrative Rules forhe State of Illinois requires vaccinations to protect Furthermore, all students enrolled in kindergarten, the Basic Immunizations:http://www.ilga.gov/commission/children from a variety of diseases before they can enter second, and the sixth grades are required to have a den‐ jcar/admincode/077/077006650B02400R.htmlschool. For school entrance, students must show proof tal examination.of diphtheria, pertussis, tetanus, polio, measles, mumps, Also, all children must complete a physical examination prior to entering Illinois schools for the irst time, prior to the date of entering kindergarten or irst grade, prior to entering sixth grade, and prior to entering ninth grade. he exam includes gender and date of birth; an evaluation of height, weight, BMI, blood pressure, skin, eyes, ears, nose, throat, mouth/dental; cardiovascular,

6 Aurora TimesAurora To Recieve $20M move in. building to the requirements of the National Register,For Vacant St. Charles create 60 construction jobs for local companies andHospital Turnaround If the River Edge Redevelopment Zone program is not help stabilize an economically distressed neighborhood. extended, not only would $4 million be lost for the St.In its efforts to revive older neighborhoods and repur‐ Joseph Charles Hospital building rehabilitation, the re‐ \"Buildings here in Rockford vacant for 30, 40, 50 years,pose historic but blighted institutional buildings, the maining $16 million in private investments would also to see them all illed, that's all due to the state tax creditsCity of Aurora is pleased to announce that a plan to re‐ likely be lost, and this historic property would continue being in place,\" said Gary Anderson, president of thehabilitate the former St. Charles Hospital has received to stand vacant, at risk of a fate similar to the blighted River District Alliance, Rockford's downtown businessmillions of dollars in state tax credits and private invest‐ former Copley Hospital on Lincoln Avenue a mile organization. \"What's happened in Rockford is pro‐ments that will allow the project to become a reality. south. found and the same thing can happen in Aurora. Devel‐ opers have all been able to take advantage of emptyhe complicated layers of inancing and tax credits - to‐ \"It's a fantastic project,\" said Verigreen Director of De‐ storefronts that are now full and full for the right rea‐taling $20 million - were assembled in a collaborative velopments David Block. \"Everybody wants it to hap‐ sons, contributing to the street and to the atmosphereeffort involving Seize the Future Development Founda‐ pen, to have a building we'll all be very proud of. he and character that as a community we've been trying totion, the Northern Lights Development Corporation, extension of the (RERZ) program would be enormously build.\"Verigreen Development and Mayor Tom Weisner's of‐ helpful in making this project come to fruition.\"ice. To save this and other worthy redevelopment projects he rehabilitation project would transform the long- around the state, the City of Aurora is encouraging localvacant St. Charles Hospital and former Fox River Pavil‐ lawmakers, including State Rep. Linda Chapa La Via,ion Nursing Home at 400 E. New York Street into a se‐ State Rep. Stephanie Kifowit and State Senator Lindanior independent living community. Holmes - all of whom are already co-sponsors of a bill to extend the RERZ - to prioritize the passage of SenateBut the $20 million project by Verigreen Development Bill 1642 before the General Assembly adjourns. hisis in jeopardy without a legislative ix in Springield. bill would extend the life of the River Edge Redevelop‐ ment Zone program beyond 2016, giving developers Funds provided by the State Historic Tax Credit across the state the time to build projects that generatethrough the River Edge Redevelopment Zone program business and revenue that would not otherwise exist inwould contribute roughly $4 million to this $20 million Illinois.project that would drive economic growth and beautifythe eastern gateway to downtown Aurora. However, the In addition, the City of Aurora is asking residents toRiver Edge Redevelopment Zone (RERZ) is set to ex‐ contact their state lawmakers to express their supportpire at the end of 2016, likely before renovations to St. for SB 1642 to ensure that projects like the redevelop‐Joseph Hospital could be complete and residents could ment of the former St. Charles Hospital move forward. he St. Charles Hospital rehabilitation project would beautify a major corridor in the city, restore an historic

Aurora Times 7 Civic NewsFarmers Market he City of Aurora Farmers Markets are more than a Movies In he Park - We place to get your vegetables. An excellent way to kick off Bought A ZooWe invite you to shop for locally grown just-picked pro‐ your Saturday morning with a mini-festival of socializ‐duce, fresh from the farm preserves, artisan cheeses, old ing, food, music and much more. Click to check us out! See your favorite ilms on the really big screen atworld breads and a very diverse selection of handcrat‐ Movies in the Park on the Phillips Park sled hill. Anded products at Illinois' Oldest Farmers Market. Come Not sure what's in season? Want to know about don't forget to stop by the concession stand for popcorntaste the difference and get to know your farmer and canning? Help is just a click away! and more!producer personally. Discover new treats, sample deli‐cious fresh produce, and connect with friends and If you would like more information, please contact the We Bought a Zoo (2011). PG. A widowed father buys aneighbors. LINK is accepted and offers a Double Value City's Special Event's Division at (630) 256-3370 or dilapidated zoo in hopes of making a fresh start. WhileBonus to patrons at all of our 3 markets. email [email protected]. facing enormous odds to keep the zoo open, he must ind the courage to recommit to his children and theirAurora's Farmers Market Downtown new life together. Based on a true story.Aurora Transportation Center, 233 N. Broadway, Auro‐ra, IL 60505 Location: Phillips Park, 1150 Howell Place, Aurora Saturdays, June 6 through October 17 from 8:00 a.m.until 12 Noon*. (*No market July 4)Aurora's Farmers Market West West Aurora Plaza, 1901 W. Galena Blvd, Aurora, IL60506Wednesdays, July 8 through September 30* from 12:00p.m.* to 5:00 p.m. (*New hours & extended season)Aurora's Farmers Market EastOur Lady of Mercy Catholic Church, 701 S. Eola Road,Aurora, IL 60504hursdays, July 9 through August 27 from 2:30p.m. to6:30 p.m.

8 Aurora Times locations that provide safe access to the bus or to the school building. Car • All passengers should wear a seat belt and/or an age- and size-appropriate car seat orbooster seat. • Your child should ride in a car seat with a harness as long as possible and then ride in a belt-posi‐ tioning booster seat. Your child is ready for a booster seat when she has reached the top weight or height allowed for her seat, her shoulders are above the top harness slots, or her ears have reached the top of the seat. • Your child should ride in a belt-positioning booster seat until the vehicle's seat belt its prop‐ erly (usually when the child reaches about 4' 9\" in height and is between 8 to 12 years of age). his means that the child is tall enough to sit against the vehicle seat back with her legs bent at the knees and feet hanging down and the shoulder belt lies across the middle of the chest and shoul‐ der, not the neck or throat; the lap belt is low and snug across the thighs, and not the stomach. • All children younger than 13 years of age should ride in the rear seat of vehicles. If you must drive more children than can it in the rear seat (when carpooling, for example), move the front-seat Back To SchoolBack-to-School Tips compartments. Pack heavier items closest to the passenger's seat as far back as possible and have center of the back. he backpack should never the child ride in a booster seat if the seat belts dohe following health and safety tips are from the Amer‐ weigh more than 10 to 20 percent of your child's not it properly without it.ican Academy of Pediatrics (AAP). body weight. • Remember that many crashes occur while novice • Always use both shoulder straps. Slinging a back‐ teen drivers are going to and from school. YouMaking the First Day pack over one shoulder can strain muscles. should require seat belt use, limit the number ofEasier • If your school allows, consider a rolling backpack. teen passengers, and do not allow eating, drink‐ his type of backpack may be a good choice for ing, cell phone conversations, texting or other • Remind your child that there are probably a lot of students who must tote a heavy load. Remember mobile device use to prevent driver distraction. students who are uneasy about the irst day of that rolling backpacks still must be carried up Limit nighttime driving and driving in inclement school. his may be at any age. Teachers know stairs, they may be difficult to roll in snow, and weather. Familiarize yourself with your state's that students are nervous and will make an extra they may not it in some lockers. graduated driver's license law and consider the effort to make sure everyone feels as comfortable use of a parent-teen driver agreement to facilitate as possible. Traveling To and From the early driving learning process. For a sample School parent-teen driver agreement, click here. • Point out the positive aspects of starting school. She'll see old friends and meet new ones. Refresh Review the basic rules with your student:: Bike her positive memories about previous years, when she may have returned home ater the irst School Bus • Always wear a bicycle helmet, no matter how day with high spirits because she had a good short or long the ride. time. • If your child's school bus has lap/shoulder seat belts, make sure your child uses one at all times • Ride on the right, in the same direction as auto • Find another child in the neighborhood with when in the bus. (If your child's school bus does traffic. whom your student can walk to school or ride on not have lap/shoulder belts, encourage the school the bus. system to buy or lease buses with lap/shoulder • Use appropriate hand signals. belts). • Respect traffic lights and stop signs. • If it is a new school for your child, attend any • Wear bright-colored clothing to increase available orientations and take an opportunity to • Remind your child to wait for the bus to stop be‐ tour the school before the irst day. fore approaching it from the curb. visibility. White or light-colored clothing and re‐ lective gear is especially important ater dark. • If you feel it is needed, drive your child (or walk • Your child should not move around on the bus. • Know the \"rules of the road.\" with her) to school and pick her up on the irst • remind your student to look both ways to see that day. Walking to School no other traffic is coming before crossing theBackpack Safety street, just in case traffic does not stop as • Make sure your child's walk to school is a safe required. route with well-trained adult crossing guards at • Choose a backpack with wide, padded shoulder • Make sure your child walks where she can see the every intersection. straps and a padded back. bus driver (which means the driver will be able to see her, too). • Identify other children in the neighborhood with • Pack light. Organize the backpack to use all of its • Children should always board and exit the bus at whom your child can walk to school. In neigh‐ borhoods with higher levels of traffic, consider organizing a \"walking school bus,\" in which an adult accompanies a group of neighborhood chil‐

Aurora Times 9 • Teach your child when and how to ask a trusted adult for help. • Encourage your child to make friends with other children. • Support activities that interest your child. • Alert school officials to the problems and work with them on solutions. • Make sure an adult who knows about the bullying can watch out for your child's safety and well-be‐ ing when you cannot be there. • Monitor your child's social media or texting in‐ teractions so you can identify problems before they get out of hand. When Your Child Is the Bully • Be sure your child knows that bullying is never OK. • Set irm and consistent limits on your child's ag‐ gressive behavior. • Be a positive role mode. Show children they can get what they want without teasing, threatening or hurting someone. • Use effective, non-physical discipline, such as loss of privileges. • Develop practical solutions with the school prin‐ cipal, teachers, counselors, and parents of the children your child has bullied. When Your Child Is a Bystander • Tell your child not to cheer on or even quietly watch bullying. • Encourage your child to tell a trusted adult about the bullying. • Help your child support other children who may be bullied. Encourage your child to include these children in activities. • Encourage your child to join with others in telling bullies to stop. dren walking to school. water and 100 percent fruit juice. Learn about Before and Ater School • Be realistic about your child's pedestrian skills. your child's school wellness policy and get in‐ Child Care volved in school groups to put it into effect. Because small children are impulsive and less • Each 12-ounce sot drink contains approximately • During early and middle childhood, children cautious around traffic, carefully consider 10 teaspoons of sugar and 150 calories. Drinking need supervision. A responsible adult should be whether or not your child is ready to walk to just one can of soda a day increases a child's risk available to get them ready and off to school in school without adult supervision. of obesity by 60%. Choose healthier options to the morning and supervise them ater school un‐ • If your children are young or are walking to a send in your child's lunch. til you return home from work. new school, walk with them the irst week or un‐ til you are sure they know the route and can do it Bullying • If a family member will care for your child, com‐ safely. municate the need to follow consistent rules set • Bright-colored clothing will make your child Bullying or cyberbullying is when one child picks on an‐ by the parent regarding discipline and more visible to drivers. other child repeatedly. Bullying can be physical, verbal, or homework. social. It can happen at school, on the playground, on theEating During the School school bus, in the neighborhood, over the Internet, or • Children approaching adolescence (11- and 12-Day through mobile devices like cell phones. year-olds) should not come home to an empty house in the aternoon unless they show unusual • Studies show that children who eat a nutritious When Your Child Is Bullied maturity for their age. breakfast function better. hey do better in school, and have better concentration and more • Help your child learn how to respond by teaching • If alternate adult supervision is not available, par‐ energy. your child how to: ents should make special efforts to supervise their children from a distance. Children should have a • Most schools regularly send schedules of cafeteria • Look the bully in the eye. set time when they are expected to arrive at home menus home and/or have them posted on the • Stand tall and stay calm in a difficult situation. and should check in with a neighbor or with a school's website. With this advance information, • Walk away. parent by telephone. you can plan on packing lunch on the days when the main course is one your child prefers not to • Teach your child how to say in a irm voice. • If you choose a commercial ater-school program, eat. • \"I don't like what you are doing.\" inquire about the training of the staff. here • \"Please do NOT talk to me like that.\" should be a high staff-to-child ratio, and the • Look into what is offered in school vending ma‐ • \"Why would you say that?\" rooms and the playground should be safe. chines. Vending machines should stock healthy choices such as fresh fruit, low-fat dairy products, Developing Good

10 Aurora TimesHomework & Study Habits Top Attractions to City of Aurora from Trip • Create an environment that is conducive to doing Advisory homework. Children need a consistent work space in their bedroom or another part of the home that is quiet, without distractions, and pro‐ motes study. • Schedule ample time for homework. • Establish a household rule that the TV and other electronic distractions stay off during homework time. • Supervise computer and Internet use. • Be available to answer questions and offer assis‐ tance, but never do a child's homework for her. • Take steps to help alleviate eye fatigue, neck fa‐ tigue and brain fatigue while studying. It may be helpful to close the books for a few minutes, stretch, and take a break periodically when it will not be too disruptive. • If your child is struggling with a particular subject, and you aren't able to help her yourself, a tutor can be a good solution. Talk it over with your child's teacher irst. • Some children need help organizing their home‐ work. Checklists, timers, and parental supervi‐ sion can help overcome homework problems. • If your child is having difficulty focusing on or completing homework, discuss this with your child's teacher, school counselor, or health care provider. • Establish a good sleep routine. Insufficient sleep is associated with lower academic achievement in middle school, high school and college, as well as higher rates of absenteeism and tardiness. he optimal amount of sleep for most adolescents is in the range of 8.5 to 9.5 hours per night. () Certiicate of ExcellenceParamount heatre#1 of 30 • \"Great way to spend an aternoon\" 08/16/2015 things to do in Aurora140 reviews • \"Awesome\" 08/12/2015 • \"We have never had a bad seat or ex...\" Specialty Museums()Vaughan Aquatic Center#8 of 30 08/17/2015 things to do in Aurora12 reviews • \"A gem of a theater\" 08/16/2015 • \"Nice place to hold a birthday part...\" 06/04/2015 • \"Fox Valley fun\" 02/18/2015 heaters() Certiicate of ExcellenceBlackberry Farm#2 of 30 things to do in Aurora71 reviews Sports ComplexesTanner House Museum#9 of 30 things to do in Aurora5 reviews • \"First rate fun....\" 08/16/2015 • \"Perfect Day\" 08/14/2015 • \"Local focus on Illinois Fox River...\" 04/21/2015 • \"Great piece of History!\" 03/12/2015 Farms() Certiicate of ExcellencePhillips Park Zoo#3 of 30 things to do in Aurora68 reviews Specialty Museums()Aurora Skate Center#10 of 30 things to do in Aurora11 reviews • \"Phillips Park Zoo's 100th Birthday\" 08/12/2015 • \"Fun for everyone\" 07/29/2015 • \"Great fun for the kids\" 03/17/2015 • \"Awesome\" 10/14/2014 Zoos() Certiicate of ExcellenceChicago Premium Outlets#4 of 30 things to do in Aurora161 reviews Sports Complexesheater & Performances (2)#11 of 30 things to do in AuroraSee all 2 heater & Performances, • \"Construction still underway!\" 08/18/2015 includingRiverEdge ParkRiverfront Playhouse • \"A worthwhile stop if you're visiti...\" 08/18/2015 Factory Outlets()Aurora Regional Fire Museum#5 of 30 things to do in Aurora14 reviews • \"Great place for the ireman or buf...\" 06/27/2015 • \"A historical gem\" 02/18/2015 Specialty MuseumsGolf Courses (2)#6 of 30 things to do in AuroraSee all 2 Golf Courses, includingOrchard Valley Golf CoursePhillips Park Golf Course()SciTech Hands On Museum#7 of 30 things to do in Aurora27 reviews

Aurora Times 11

12 Aurora TimesCommon Sense by Herman Johnson look at the 2016 electionAnother long and hot summer has come to an end, and Care Act, the housing bubble, and the complete collapsethe election 2016 season is off to a running start. On the of the American banking system to name a few. heDemocratic side, you have the old guard of Hillary year 2008 was one of change when we elected not onlyClinton and then there is the liberal arm of the party in our irst African American but also a President fromBernie Sanders. he progressive arm of the party want‐ Generation X. he generation that saw Watergate, Okla‐ed Senator Linda Warren to jump into the race but, she homa City, 9-11, and the impeachment of a President.said no and would be supporting Senator Sanders. his Some historians would argue that this is not as turbu‐still has the progressive arm looking to Vice President lent a time as what the Greatest Generation dealt withJoe Biden to enter the race to represent the record of in terms of the great depression and World War 2, orPresident Obama. my generation, the baby boomers, who dealt with Viet‐ nam, civil rights, and women's equality.On the republican side, you have an even more confus‐ing equation going on with 10 candidates, and of all Fast forward 8 years and the economy is back to creat‐people, leading their ield is billionaire Donald Trump ing jobs, with the lowest unemployment rate since 2002.whose shooting from the hip style is helping to garner Millions of Americans are covered with medical care,some national exposure like his feud with Megan Kelly, the housing market is rebounding, and there is a deal incrossing swords at the debate and actually trying to af‐ place with Iran to keep the nuclear option from enter‐fect the outcome of the primary because of his antics. ing the Middle East. To me, it would make sense to fo‐Mike Huckabee continues to spread his message of God cus on the gains of this administration and make theand country. Senator Rand Paul continues his antics of debate on how we can continue to improve domesticallybeing a one-man party of no and not really offering up and continue to regain our place as the world's leader.any ideas that might help shape the debate instead to at‐ he enemy is not each other, but rather our division. Astack the the great President Abraham Lincoln once said, \"A House divided cannot stand.\" hat is real common Obama administration for not being American sense. Maybe our would-be leaders should rememberenough. I cannot even bring myself to mention yet an‐ those words of common sense.other Bush running for office. We already know fromthe irst two what this brand represents, it's like the ter‐minator ilms with Arnold Schwarzenegger getting old‐er and same plot. We got it - you are there, but it's notreally fun to watch.Even though it's early in the election season, we are notyet seeing any clear-cut ideas from any of the candidatesto help address what is currently plaguing America. Solet's go back eight years to a time before the Affordable

Aurora Times 13 News from the CapitalFoster Announces Lottery their allocation will be redistributed to lottery entrants Hultgren Supports Votingfor Pope Francis Address on the waitlist on a rolling basis. Rights Act UpdateTickets he lottery is only open to residents of Illinois' Eleventh Washington, DC - U.S. Representative Randy HultgrenAurora, IL - Today, Congressman Bill Foster an‐ District. (IL-14) has cosponsored H.R. 885, the Voting Rightsnounced a lottery drawing for Eleventh District resi‐ Amendment Act of 2015, as introduced by Rep. Jimdents for a limited number of tickets to see Pope Fran‐ To ind out if you are a resident of the Eleventh District, Sensenbrenner (WI-05). his bipartisan civil rights leg‐cis' address to Congress on hursday, September 24, visit http://www.house.gov/representatives/ind/. islation updates the federal preclearance provisions2015. from the original Voting Rights Act, signed into law 50 For more details and to enter the lottery, visit years ago on August 6, 1965, which were deemed un‐he tickets will allow access to the West Lawn of the foster.house.gov/pope. constitutional by the Supreme Court in Shelby County vU.S. Capitol during Pope Francis' address, which will be Holder. Original federal preclearance provisions re‐simulcast outdoors to the public. Pope Francis is also quired review by a federal court before an offendingscheduled to make an appearance on the steps of the state or local municipality could change election laws.U.S. Capitol ater the speech. \"As a proud member of the Party of Lincoln from thehe deadline for submissions is Monday, September 7, Land of Lincoln,\" said Rep. Hultgren, \"I take great2015, and lottery winners will be notiied on Tuesday, pride-and responsibility-in promoting a strong republicSeptember 8, 2015. All winners will be responsible for where all women and men are equal and a part of thetheir own transportation to Washington, D.C., as well as system that chooses our leaders and promotes a morelodging and other trip expenses during their stay. In the just society. Federal preclearance provisions are vital forevent that a lottery winner is unable to use their tickets, protecting against potential infringements on our soci‐ ety's foundational right to vote through local laws tar‐

14 Aurora Timesgeting minority communities.\"I believe the Supreme Court was right in calling for anupdate to a law that has largely been on autopilot. Fed‐eralism works, and our Constitution made clear thatelection laws are set at the state and local level. hat be‐ing acknowledged, the federal government should haveextraordinary measures in place to delay changes inelection law from being made by recent lawbreakers un‐til a review by a federal court.\"Hearing the stories from icons like my colleague Rep.John Lewis (GA-05) and Alveda King invigorates mydesire to stand with them and the many who struggledto claim the civil rights that had been wrongly deniedthem. his bill is a step toward protecting that legacyfor all generations.\"he bill replaces the sections in the Voting Rights Actwhich were largely unchanged since the original billwas introduced in 1965. Congress has continually reau‐thorized the act, with few changes, meaning some stateswere still being punished for past actions and not cur‐rent trends. he updated formula would require reviewby a federal court before recent violators could changeelection laws.Laurie Hoffman moving Park and Recreation Management. A key factor in win‐ are lucky beneiciaries of each other - and working to‐on ater 13 years at ning the award as cited by judges was the trust and gether has made our communities even better.\"FVPD community support Fox Valley enjoyed among its resi‐ dents, as relected by passage of two major referendums Hoffman also served six years on the West AuroraSuccessful referendums, growth and expansion of pro‐ in a six-year span. School Board. She is currently a commissioner with thegrams and facilities top list of highlights City of Aurora Planning Commission and President of As Director of Recreation and Communications, Hoff‐ the Fox Valley Special Recreation Board.AURORA - Ater 13 years as Director of Recreation and man led the District's programming and eventCommunications for the Fox Valley Park District, life‐ planning. Fox Valley, the second largest Park District in Born and raised in Aurora, Hoffman is a graduate oflong Auroran Laurie Hoffman is taking on a new career the state, offers more than 3,000 classes, programs and East Aurora High School and Aurora University. Sheendeavor. events on an annual basis. and her husband Dan have three grown children.Hoffman informed Park District staff this week she has Her responsibilities also included oversight of Fox Val‐ \"My experiences at the Fox Valley Park District haveaccepted an offer to become Director of Community ley's community centers and water parks - eight facili‐ been invaluable and will always be with me,\" addedServices with the City of Irvine, CA, and will transition ties total - while also leading the District's award-win‐ Hoffman. \"I can't think of a more quality organizationinto that role by the end of September. ning marketing department. to have spent the past 13 years. Aurora will always be my home and the Fox Valley Park District will foreverHoffman joined the FVPD in 2002 ater her successful Among many notable accomplishments, Hoffman is es‐ be No. 1 in my book.\"leadership with the advocacy group Residents for Park pecially proud of the success of the Vaughan Center -and Recreation, which built a coalition of community which celebrates its 10thanniversary in October - alongsupport for a $33 million referendum. hat referendum with renovation projects that revitalized Red Oak Na‐passed with a 71 percent approval rating and funded ture Center, Blackberry Farm, Copley II Boxing andconstruction of the Vaughan Athletic Center - now the Training Center.Park District's signature facility - along with expansionand improvements of the Eola and Prisco community he expansion of Stuart Sports Complex was a notablecenters. achievement on multiple fronts in that it allowed Fox Valley to meet local demand for more athletic ieldsSix years later, Hoffman was a driving force in voter while also creating a regional destination and host sitepassage (65 percent approval) of a $44 million referen‐ for major tournaments involving teams from across thedum that created the 2008 Open Space, Park and Recre‐ Midwest.ation Investment plan. Known as the \"OSPRI\" referen‐dum, it funded land acquisition, regional trails, in‐ Hoffman also cited the expansion of programs andcreased public access along the Fox River, dozens of events - along with new events - among her many high‐park, playground and athletic ield renovations, expan‐ lights at FVPD. New events in recent years that have en‐sion of Stuart Sports Complex and a modern makeover joyed great participation and success include Bug Fest,of Blackberry Farm, now one of Aurora's top ive visitor Amazing Race, Spring Gallop and various outdoor anddestinations. itness programs designed to get area youth involved and engaged in healthy, active pursuits.In 2009, Fox Valley was awarded the most prestigioushonor in the parks and recreation industry when it \"I have thoroughly enjoyed my time at the Fox Valleyearned a national Gold Medal Award for Excellence in Park District, working in communities that I truly love,\" said Hoffman. \"I am sincerely inspired by the relation‐ ship between the Park District and our residents. We

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16 Aurora TimesLetters from the CommunityLocal Food Pantry Needs Madigan: Governor Failed McCormick Place's bankers get paid. I take great excep‐Help Women, Children and tion to those disparaging comments, as do the women, Elderly While Helping children and elderly who would have beneitted fromA recent study found that between the ages of 25-60, Chicago's McCormick the state dollars House Democrats supported.\"nearly two-thirds of Americans will live in poverty for a Placeyear. Additionally, about 42 percent of Americans will hank you ,live in extreme poverty for a year - that is in the 10th SPRINGFIELD, Ill. - House Speaker Michael J. Madi‐percentile of the income distribution. gan issued the following statement hursday ater the Speaker Michael J. Madigan governor signed legislation authorizing the use of stateIf you are interested in covering this new research, I en‐ funds for McCormick Place while opposing funding forcourage you to speak with the local experts at Loaves & women, children and the elderly:Fishes Community Services, an anti-poverty andhunger assistance organization based in the western \"Governor Rauner's piecemeal approach to federallysuburbs. Nationally recognized for its best-in-class food funded programs creates more hardship and confusingrecovery and client empowerment programs, Loaves & disruptions. A few weeks ago, he vetoed all federallyFishes - together with a team of more than 1,500 local funded program spending. Now he cherry picks andvolunteers - provides groceries and essential supportive says 'no' to state funding for critically needed servicesservices to more than 2,800 suburban Chicago families like breast and cervical cancer screenings, assistance foreach month. children with development disabilities and meals for the elderly. He also reversed course with the decision toI would be happy to arrange an interview for you with support spending state money to pay Chicago's Mc‐Megan Selck, president and CEO of Loaves & Fishes, or Cormick Place bankers.provide you with more information on poverty in ourcommunity and how Loaves & Fishes is making a dif‐ \"he governor's office called the inclusion of fundingference. for these programs a 'poison pill,' and more than one House Republican made similar comments on theBest, House loor, even going so far as to say these programs were 'extra nonsense' that 'got in the way' while they in‐Rebecca sisted on spending additional state money to ensureFor Loaves & Fishes Community Services

Aurora Times 17Coffee Shop by Brian BasiclioAre You Making he Most Instagram? much all the interaction that you get within Insta‐Of Instagram? gram. Instagram is not Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn or anyhere is an ongoing joke about social media, \"Kids are other thing that you have known. It's a site unto itself engagement that is off the charts … 58 times more thanleaving Facebook in droves, because their mothers are with some very limiting factors. Let me tell you what Facebook and 120 times more than Twitterlogging in.\" here is a lot of truth to that, but where are you can do on Instagram irst… Click To Tweetthey going? hey are jumping onto Twitter and Insta‐gram. hey love that short attention span theater and 1. Take Pictures And Share - Instagram is primari‐ What You Can't Do Withquick messaging platform. Twitter and Instagram are ly used as a cell phone app. You can look at it Instagrammore one-to-one. hey don't want to have to deal with from your desktop, but you can't really interactall the comments and interaction of Facebook, and have from there. You need to download the app for 1. Share Links - Unlike other social media, there isno desire to engage on LinkedIn (unless they are look‐ your iPhone or Android device and interact from no easy way to share links to things that you wanting for a job). there. he whole purpose of Instagram is to take to communicate inside Instagram. he only link pictures and share them with your audience. that is active is the one in your proile. You canWhat Is Instagram? share links, but people have to copy and paste 2. Share Videos - Just like with Vine, you can share them in order to view them since they will not beInstagram is much more than just the Kardashians' self‐ 3 to 15 second videos on Instagram as well. If clickable inside the comments.ies. In fact, it's even being embraced by law you're not familiar with Vine, they are short loop‐enforcement. Cops are turning to Instagram and have ing videos that will allow you to interact with 2. Share Other Peoples' Photos - You can post pho‐started busting people who have posted pictures of people. tos to your heart's content, but there's no way tothemselves smoking pot. People - please take my advice share other peoples' photos inside of Instagram.… if you're doing business and also on Instagram, 3. Add Hashtags - When you post a picture on In‐ he only thing you can do is comment or likeplease don't post pictures of yourself smoking pot. In‐ stagram, you have the ability to add a comment what other people post.stagram is basically Twitter for pictures. You get to post to it, however you have to be aware that you can‐a picture and a short comment that allows you to com‐ not add links into those comments. You can add 3. Have A Business or Brand Page - Unlike Face‐municate with your audience. It has over 300 million an HTTP link, but it's not clickable or linkable. book or Google+ where you can create as manyusers and is steadily growing with engagement that is Hashtags are the primary form of communicating business brand pages as you want, Instagramoff the charts … 58 times more than Facebook and 120 beyond your messages and they enable people to does not let you do that. What you can do is havetimes more than Twitter. People love pictures, which is ind your content just like in Twitter. up to ive accounts for you and your business, butwhy Facebook bought Instagram. you have to log in to each, then post and com‐ 4. Send Direct Messages - he cool thing about In‐ ment as each one of those brands. here is noWhat Can You Do On stagram is that you can share direct messages easy way to manage all of those accounts from with people who you're not already connected to. one location. his feature may change in the fu‐ If you want to engage with someone you're not ture, but for the time being you have no choice. connected to, you simply post a picture, search them and send a direct message from that point. To-Do List Will you get a response? Who knows, but if you're trying to reach out to somebody in your No matter what type of business you have, I encourage industry or to a client it may be worth a try. you to at least create an Instagram and take a look 5. Like And Comment - You can like a picture (this is done by clicking on the heart), or you can com‐ ment on somebody else's photo. hat's pretty

18 Aurora Timesaround. Here are some steps to get you started… However, there is a tool that you can use to mea‐ As with most social media, you never know when you sure the effectiveness of your posts. his is a web‐ can catch lightning in a bottle. Login and continue to 1. Create An Account - It is really simple to create site callediconosquare.com. All you have to do is poke around and see what you think. an account. Go to Instagram.com or simply give them access to your Instagram account and download the app on your phone and then all you can start tracking the engagement of your Maybe you're already on there and you're just absolutely you need is an email account and a password to posts. loving it. I would love to know your comments and get started. feedback about Instagram, and how it's helping you to Final houghts promote your business … Comment away! 2. Fill In Your Proile - Next, you will need to ill in your proile. here are three main components. I know what you're saying to yourself, \"Great! I need First you will need your picture. I recommend another social media platform like I need a hole in my you make it a personal proile picture, as opposed head!!\" he good thing is this is an untapped market to your brand. If you create multiple proiles ater place for you and your business. Nothing says you have this, then you can add pictures of your book, to spend 15 hours a day there, but at least take a look your products or services or whatever you like. around and see what other people are doing. Next you will need to add your biography. here is a 150 word limit so make it count. Finally, you get one opportunity to create a clickable link. Make this link the website that you would like to drive people back to. 3. Connect To Other Social Media - You want to connect with all your social media in any way, shape or form that you can. If you have a website, make sure that you download any plug-ins that allow you either to post Instagram to your web‐ site or to connect back to your Instagram account. 4. Follow And Be Followed - You have to ind friends to connect with, so follow the friends that you know and search out friends that you'd like to be connected to. Like with any social media, it's very lonely out there without friends. As I said before, you do not have to be connected with somebody to send them a direct message, but I do suggest that you follow and friend people in common and like their posts before you ask them for a favor. 5. Get Analytics - Finally, if you know me, I'm a huge proponent of measurement. Unfortunately, Instagram does not have any built-in analytics.

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20 Aurora Times Summer of Cubs in Aurora by Dick KolfFor the irst time in many years, we have an opportunity Recently I stopped in at Bally Doyle's in downtown Au‐ Ater the ith inning and ater several sodas and wings,to see some baseball excitement here in the rora to catch a Cub's game. here I met a group of this old man needed to step out and get some fresh air.Chicagoland, and you will ind no more of passionate thirty-somethings, with whom I struck up a conversa‐ Outside, on this beautiful deck that gives a great view ofsupporters than in Aurora. his young team has cap‐ tion while watching the Cross Town Classic. I told them downtown Aurora and the Fox River, some of the guys Itured the hearts and minds and have re instilled a belief that I was a newspaper sports writer for some local pub‐ was sitting with came out as well. heir names wherein the Cubs that has not been felt since that season of lications and wanted to ind out the Culture of the Cubs Steve from Oswego and John from Sugar Grove. Steve2003 when the Cubbies were 6 outs from the World Se‐ here in Aurora and no better time than when they were was a Sox Fan and John was a Cubs fan. We began talk‐ries. But for those unfortunate events, the Cubs would playing the cross town rival, the White Sox. So here it as ing about the series and how the teams were getting onlose game six and end the season to the Marlins who the irst game of the classic and the Cubs come in riding with their perspective seasons. Steve, of course, was de‐would go on to win the Series that year. a 4-game winning streak with Cubs fans arguing that fending the Sox and claiming injuries have caused their this is it - they are going all the way. Sox fans are hoping subpar season and underperformance. John was excitedhe Cubbies have not won a World Series since 1908, that their team will ind some respectability and defeat about the youth movement paying off and the fact thisover 100 years a Guinness Book of Records for a losing the Cubs to take the season's series and hold court for club was ahead of schedule. he excitement of both fansstreak. So why all the hype for a team that is holding the another season as the victor of the crosstown classic to and the passion for their teams gives me and under‐third wild card slot and are in third place in a very ind some meaning for a tough season that started with standing of what a great sports town Aurora is. Atertough Central Division? he answer can be found in the promise. some friendly teasing, I was shocked to hear what camelocal watering holes and coffee shops throughout the out of Steve's mouth he said \"I am a Chicago fan and ifcity and surrounding towns. the Cubs do get to the post season then of course I, will root for them.\" Shocking, but not surprising, even in competition there is still honor. In other cities or re‐ gions do you ind the commitment and loyalty to the town than here in Chicago and in the 2nd city of Auro‐ ra? Ater another Cubs' victory, I took a walk to go over my notes in preparation for this article. Walking around, seeing this beautiful view of downtown, and enjoying a few hours here in this city helped me to understand what a unique small but yet diverse this city is. In local sports, you have East Aurora vs. West Aurora - the longest rival in Illinois Football, and hearing some of the locals debating about their teams helped me to gain an appreciation for the commitment of these residents for their city. So here in the end as the Summer of the Cubs continues their git to Chicago is reminding what a great sports town we are and reminding locals why its great to have support for their local completion and in the end they are all one city and one region.

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22 Aurora Times Another to join Mayor's Race by Sheryl KraseKurt Becker the head coach of the East Aurora Tomcatsis thinking about making a bid for the highest office inAurora which is mayor. Kurt Becker has been ap‐proached by several high ranking elected officials andbusiness leaders of his possible candidacy for this office.Among the elected officials Is Kane County Boardchairman Chris Lauzen who recently held his pig roastin which Mr. Becker was in attendance.What makes Kurt Becker candidacy interesting is hisstory and the fact that he has never run for public officebefore. Born in Aurora and Star at East Aurora highschool for the tomcats . He would earn a scholarship tothe University of Michigan where he would earn All BigTen Honors and would be selected by the ChicagoBears in the 1982 Drat in the 6th round. He would goon to play in the NFL for the Bears and Rams retiring in1990. He then came back to Aurora and started his ownbusiness Twin Oaks Vending and would begin coachingat local schools like Marmion and would become headfootball coach at East Aurora.With a community record that is very respectful Mr.Becker has not seeked election before so so he does nothave a record to stand on in terms of making policy de‐cisions. His commitment to the community and sup‐port of man local organizations is well documented. Itis important to note that this is an exploratory commit‐tee that is being formed and that beyond exploring Mr.Becker has not made any formal announcement ofseeking Mayor . he election will be held in Spring 2017and a few candidates have announced their intention toseek the office of Mayor.

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24 Aurora Times Aurora's Hidden Gems by Jennifer FlowersRecently my friend Kristine and I , embarked on one ofour to do lists this summer and that was to visit arealandmarks that are being forgotten. hings that we seeeveryday but take them for granted . Each piece of his‐tory is walking through the annals of time and remem‐bering how the City once looked and how it has helpedshape the future and the roles in which they have inlu‐enced the City evolution into Illinois 2nd City. his willbe a series of articles over the next few months that wehope you will enjoy and ind educational and will helpyou t start your journey on inding out more of Aurora's Hidden Gems.Leland Tower is a twenty-two story tall building lo‐cated on Stolp Island in Aurora, Illinois. Stolp Islandis recognized as a Historical District by the NationalRegister of Historical Places.Leland Tower was at one time the tallest building in Illi‐nois outside of Chicago and dominates the downtownof Aurora, dwaring all the other buildings locatedthere. he tower was built initially as a hotel. he Le‐land Hotel project was conceived in 1926 and was oneof the most ambitious projects in the city's history. heproject was announced by an organization known asthe Aurora Building Corporation through Herbert P.Heiss of the First Illinois Company. Mr. Heiss had locat‐ed and purchased the site for the proposed hotel. hebuilding contract was awarded to the H.G. ChtistmanCompany, general contractors of South Bend, Indianaand Detroit, Michigan. Anker Sveere Graven andArthur Guy Mayger were chosen to design the hotelwhich was planned to be one of the grandest buildingsoutside of Chicago.Goddess of Victory statue on Memorial Bridge, builtc. 1931. In background is entrance to HollywoodCasino, c. 1993.In mythology, victory is oten deiied, as in Greek Nikeor Roman Victoria. he victorious agent is a hero, otenportrayed as engaging in hand-to-hand combat with amonster (as Saint George slaying the dragon, Indra slay‐ing Ahi, hor slaying the Midgard Serpent etc.). Sol In‐victus (\"Sun invincible\") of Roman mythology becamean epithet of Christ in Christian mythology. he resur‐rection of Christ is presented as a victory over Deathand Sin by Paul of TarsusDetail of unusual Mayanrevival motif on the old Elk'sBuilding, currently housing the Aurora ElectionCommission.A unique and intricate style, the tradition of Maya ar‐chitecture spans several thousands of years. Oten, thebuildings most dramatic and easily recognizable asMaya are the stepped pyramids from the Terminal Pre-classic period and beyond. Being based on the gen‐eralMesoamerican architectural traditions, these pyra‐

Aurora Times 25 From the Countymids relied on intricate carved stone in order to create a Successful Start for Kane County Electric Aggregation tion program, please visitstairstep design. Each pyramid was dedicated to a deity Program housands of residents and small businesses w w w. dy n e g ye n e rg y s e r v i c e s . c om / c om mu n it y / k an e -whose shrine sat at its peak. During this \"height\" of in unincorporated Kane County will save money on county.php, call the DES Customer Care line atMaya culture, the centers of their religious, commercial their electric bills starting in August, due to the new 866-694-1262 from 8:00 am-7:00 pm on Monday-and bureaucratic power grew into large cities, including rate negotiated under the County's electric aggregation Friday, or email [email protected], and Uxmal. hrough observation of the numer‐ program kicking in this month. Back in June, Kaneous consistent elements and stylistic distinctions, rem‐ County signed a two-year contract with Dynegy Energynants of Maya architecture have become an important Services for a ixed electric rate of 6.533 cents per kilo‐key to understanding the evolution of their ancient watt-hour for the irst 12 months and 6.065 cents pertemples. kilowatt-hour for the last 12 months of the contract. he ComEd price to compare for August is 7.18 centshese are just a start of the Tour if you have a story or a per kilowatt-hour, thus the customers in Kane County'sunique hidden gem then we want to hear from you program will experience a 9 percent savings over whatdrop us aline at [email protected] they would've paid without aggregation. \"Kane County's rate of 6.533 cents per kWh is one of the lowest rates currently available in the ComEd territory-both for in‐ dividual offerings and compared to other municipal ag‐ gregation programs,\" stated Sharon Durling from the Northern Illinois Municipal Electric Collaborative (NIMEC), Kane County's consultant for the program. Approximately 15,350 households and small businesses in unincorporated Kane County were eligible for auto‐ matic enrollment into the electric aggregation program. Of those accounts, 2,750 took action over the past two months to opt out. \"hat is a participation rate of over 82 percent, which we are very pleased with,\" stated Ken Anderson, Director of the Kane County Division of Environmental & Water Resources. \"It's 12,600 households and small businesses that will see real cost savings because of this program.\" Kane County does not have information yet on how many customers were already enrolled in con‐ tracts with other electric suppliers and made a choice to opt in to the County's aggregation program. he num‐ ber of those participants is also likely to rise over time as customers' contracts with other suppliers expire and they take action to switch to Dynegy instead. Even if residents already chose to opt out of Kane County's electric aggregation program, they are still able to opt back in by calling Dynegy Energy. It would take one to two billing cycles to be enrolled, but residents could still choose to receive the lower electric supply rates and save money through Kane County's program. For more information about the Kane County's electric aggrega‐

26 Aurora Times News From the ParamountJay Leno to perform at Hall of Fame. Leno will perform one-show-only Friday, BRING THE ENTIRE FAMILY TOA CHRISTMASParamount October 30 at 8 p.m. at the Paramount heatre, 23 E. STORY - THE MUSICAL, PARAMOUNT THEATRE'S Galena Blvd in downtown Aurora. Tickets are $89, $99 HOLIDAY BLOCKBUSTER, BRIMMING WITHAURORA, IL, August 26, 2015 - Comedy and talk show and $109. For tickets and information, go to Paramoun‐legend Jay Leno is headed to Aurora's Paramount he‐ tAurora.com, call the box office at (630) 896-6666, or LAUGHS, DREAMS, WARMTH AND FAMILY,atre for one-show-only, and he's bringing audiences stop by the Paramount heatre, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., Mon‐ NOVEMBER 25-JANUARY 3along for one of the funniest nights of the fall comedy day through Saturday. his performance is rated (top, from let) A Christmas Story - he Musical marksseason. From performing 300 nights a year in comedy PG-13.Jay Leno at the Paramount heatre is sponsored the Paramount debut of director Nick Bowling.Tomclubs to dominating the late night circuit as NBC-TV's by Nicor Gas and CBK Global Enterprises. Vendafreddo is music director and conductor. he castTonight Show host for over 17 years, Leno's Emmy-win‐ includes Michael Harp as Ralphie,(bottom row, fromning humor has had audiences around the world laugh‐ let) Danni Smith as his mother, Michael Accardo asing for decades and earned him a spot in the Television the Old Man, Philip Earl Johnson as the narrator, Eric‐ ka Mac as Miss Shields and heo Moss as Randy. Click here to download hi-res. AURORA, August 18, 2015 - Families, set your holiday entertainment dials for excitement, because Chicago musical theater powerhouse, the Paramount heatre in Aurora, is turning one of the most iconic holiday movies ever made into a larger-than-life musical block‐ buster, November 25-January 3. Director Nick Bowling will make his Paramount debut with A Christmas Story - he Musical, everyone's fa‐ vorite holiday comedy about little Ralphie and his quest for a Red Ryder BB gun. Bowling has bubbled to the top of Chicago's musical theater scene with his recent string of hits including Porchlight's Sondheim on Sondheim (\"4 stars\" - Chicago Tribune), City of Angels and he King and I at Marriott and he History Boys at Time‐ Lineheatre, where he is Associate Artistic Director. To‐ day, Paramount Artistic Director Jim Corti announced the cast and production team for A Christmas Story on his blog, Tuesday's with Corti. \"Paramount's production stars Michael Harp as little Ralphie with his parents played by Danni Smith as his Mother, Michael Accardo as he Old Man and Philip Earl Johnson as the narrator, Jean. Of this cast of 31, 21 actors are making their Paramount debut directed by Nick Bowling, choreographed by Rhett Guter with mu‐ sical director Tom Vendafreddo conducting the 17- member Paramount Orchestra playing the full, original Broadway orchestrations. his is an exceptional team of artists, designers and technicians. I am stoked!\" hir‐ teen-year-old Michael Harp recently played Billy's pal Michael in Billy Elliot at Drury Lane Oakbrook and Kurt in Lyric Opera of Chicago's he Sound of Music.Danni Smith is a four-time Jeff Award winner, with recent credits including City of Angels at Marriott and Jesus Christ Superstar and Always Patsy Cline at heo Ubique. Michael Accardo most recently played Nathan Bloom in Drury Lane's Beaches and performed in he Full Monty at Drury Lane Water Tower. Philip Earl Johnson was recently seen in Writers heatre's Dance of Death and Old Glory and played Joe Pitt in the national tour of Angels in America, Parts I and II. Brimming with dynamite performances and overlow‐ ing with comedy and heart, A Christmas Story - he Musical is the adaptation of the 1983 indie cult ilm which became a Broadway mu‐ sical spectacular in 2012. Who doesn't love nine-year-old Ralphie Parker, a typi‐ cal boy growing up in 1940s Indiana? With Christmas right around the corner, Ralphie has his bespectacled sights set on one thing - a Red Ryder BB Gun. But at ev‐ ery turn, the young daydreamer hears those ive words that are the bane of his existence: \"You'll shoot your eye out.\" he music is energetic, unforgettable and ranges from

Aurora Times 27gentle ballads to full-on, show-stopping numbers. he son Grimm, Jillian Jocson, Mark David Kaplan, ever Plaid(Chestnut Fine Arts) and It's a Wonderfulimagery takes audiences back to an easier time we oten Matthew Keffer, Alanna Lovely, Erin McGrath, Jason Life: A Radio Play (Cygnet heatre). As a cabaretlong for, but the message remains the same: family, Richards, Summer Smart, Holly Stauder and Dana artist, Tom has performed in Chicago, New York, Sanfriendship, love - the holidays are nothing without Tretta. Diego and Melbourne, Australia. In 2014, he becamethem. Bring your family and celebrate the holidays with Per usual, Paramount has tapped only the highest the Founding Artistic Director of the Chicago Artiststhis beloved story of a department store Santa, a Leg caliber talent in every aspect of production. In keep‐ Chorale, a choral ensemble comprised of workingLamp, a snow suit and friends that will never leave your ing with Paramount tradition, the 17-member professionals in the Chicago theatre community.side - even if your tongue is stuck to a lag pole. A Paramount Orchestra will play the full, original Vendafreddo received a Bachelor of Music in VocalChristmas Story begins previews November 25. Press Broadway orchestrations for A Christmas Story, led Performance and Music Education from Eastmanopening is Sunday, November 29 at 5:30 p.m. by Music Director and Conductor Tom Vendafreddo, School of Music and a Master of Fine Arts in Musical helming the orchestra for his fourth consecutive heatre from San Diego State University. Regular performances continue through January 3. Paramount musical. Paramount's production team tomvendafreddo.comParamount's 2015-16 BroadwayShow times are Wednesday at 1:30 p.m. and 7 p.m.; also includes Rhett Guter, choreographer; Jeff Kmiec, Series is sponsored by the Dunham Fund,hursday at 7 p.m.; Friday at 8 p.m.; Saturday at 3 p.m. sets; Sally Dolembo, costumes; Jesse Klug, lights; BMO Harris Bank and Paramount Arts Centre En‐and 8 p.m.; and Sunday at 1 p.m. and 5:30 p.m. Michael Stanill, media;Adam Rosenthal, sound; dowment (PACE). Broadway Series Orchestra Spon‐ Katie Cordts, wigs and make-up; Sarah Ross, proper‐ sor is Rush-Copley. Broadway Series Lighting Spon‐ Note: here will be two certiied sign interpreters ties; and Matt Hawkins, ight choreography. Trent sor isComEd. Broadway Series Costume Sponsor istranslating all dialogue and lyrics into American Sign Stork is assistant director. Sara Gammage is Stage Gerald Subaru. A Christmas Story - he Musical isLanguage on hursday, December 17 at 7 p.m. Tickets Manager. Amber Johnson is Assistant Stage Manager. also sponsored by Comfort Suites Aurora.are $41 to $56. he Paramount heatre is located at 23E. Galena Blvd., in the heart of downtown Aurora. For Nick Bowling (director) was the founding Artistic More about Paramount's 2015-16 Seasontickets and information, go toParamountAurora.com Director and is now Associate Artistic Director at In addition to A Christmas Story, Paramount's 2015-16call (630) 896-6666 or visit the Paramount box office TimeLine heatre. He is the recipient of ive Jeff Broadway series boasts three more blockbuster produc‐Monday through Saturday, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., and two Awards for Outstanding Direction (he History Boys, tions: Oklahoma, directed by Jim Corti (Sept. 16-Oct.hours prior to evening performances. A Christmas Sto‐ Fiorello!, his Happy Breed and he Crucible at Time‐ 18), Hairspray - he Broadway Musical, directed byry - he Musical is rated PG. More about A Christmas Line, Another Part Of he Forest at Eclipse heatre) Amber Mak (Jan. 20-Feb. 21, 2016) and West Side Sto‐Story - he MusicalA Christmas Story - he Musical, and six nominations for he Normal Heart, Blood And ry, directed by Jim Corti (Mar. 16-Apr. 24, 2016). Just asbased on the movie A Christmas Story and Jean Shep‐ Gits, he Farnsworth Invention,Hauptmann and he it has from the start, Paramount is still offering theherd's novel In God We Trust: All Others Pay Cash, Lion In Winter (TimeLine) and Closer han Ever same great \"Buy Two Shows, Get Two Shows Free\" sub‐features a book by Joseph Robinette, with music and (Porchlight Music heatre). Other recent credits in‐ scription offer, with four-play packages starting as lowlyrics by Benj Pasek and Justin Paul. Ater engage‐ clude TimeLine's Juno, 33 Variations andMy Kind Of as just $82. he rewards are ample - four amazing,ments at Seattle's 5th Avenue heatre and the Chica‐ Town, Northwestern University's Cabaret, Porchlight Broadway-quality, classic American musicals at one ofgo heatre, A Christmas Story arrived on Broadway at Music heatre's A Catered Affair, Writers heatre's the most majestic theaters in the Midwest, all for thethe Lunt-Fontanne heatre in the fall of 2012. It Bach At Leipzig, Shattered Globe's Time Of he Cuck‐ price of one show downtown.opened to overwhelming critical acclaim, broke box oo, and City of Angels and he King and I at Marriott To purchase subscriptions or single tickets, visitoffice records and went on to receive three 2013 Tony heatre. ParamountAurora.com, call630.896.6666 or visit theAward® nominations including Best Musical, Best Tom Vendafreddo (music director/conductor) is a Paramount heatre box office, 23 E. Galena Blvd. in theBook of a Musical and Best Original Score, along music director, conductor and actor with an eclectic heart of downtown Aurora.with six Drama Desk nominations and two Outer career nationally and internationally. At the In addition to its Broadway series, Paramount'sCritics Circle nominations. Paramount, he has music directed and conducted 2015-16 season also boastsDonny & Marie (Aug. Paramount's production of A Christmas Story - he productions of In the Heights, Mary Poppins,he 12-16), the Season Kick Off-Party and heHappy To‐Musical also stars Ericka Macas Miss Shields and 12 Who's Tommy, LesMisérables and Oklahoma. Other gether Tour (Aug. 21), Chicago frontman and solo vo‐more of Chicago's top youth actors as Ralphie's recent credits includeOn the Town and Godspell calist Peter Cetera (Sept. 4), he Duke Ellington Or‐friends, enemies and schoolmates: Blake Barnickel (Marriott Lincolnshire); Road Show and Shrek: he chestra (Sept. 5), Chicago's own Jersey BoysUnder he(Flick), Cody Bolithon (Sammy), Grier Burke (Suzy), Musical (Chicago Shakespeare heater); Sweet Chari‐ Streetlamp (Oct. 25), Jay Leno with special musicalNick Dantes (Schwartz), Michael Di Leo (Roy), ty (Writers heatre); The Spitire Grill (BoHo heatre guest Emily West (Oct. 30),Ballet Folklorico Quetzal‐Samantha Marie Erne(Esther Jane), Ricky Falbo - Jeff Nomination for Music Direction); and Pump coatl (Oct. 31), Jack Hanna's Into the Wild Live! (Nov.(Grover Dill), Eloise Lushina (Mary Beth), Tyler Boys and Dinettes (Metropolis Performing Arts Cen‐ 1), star of A&E's hit Paranormal Statehe HappyMartin(Scooter), heo Moss (Randy), Peyton Shaffer ter). Select regional credits includeRENT (San Diego Medium - Kim Russo (Nov. 6), comedian and imper‐(Nancy) and Reid Patrick Tomasson(Scut Farkus). Musical heatre), Odyssey (Old Globe heatre), For‐ sonator Frank Caliendo (Nov. 7), Peter & Paul of the legendary folk trio Peter, Paul & Mary (Nov. 8), coun‐ Ensemble members are Aubrey Adams, Audrey try music hunk Josh Turner(Nov. 12), comedian andBillings, Jonathan Butler-Duplessis, Aaron Choi, Ja‐ ventriloquist Terry Fator (Nov. 13), Mannheim Steam‐ roller Christmas by Chip Davis (Nov. 14), he Second City's Holidazed and Confused Revue (Dec. 4-20, in Paramount's Copley heatre), STOMP (Feb. 26 & 27), I Gotta Right to Sing the Blues(A Salute to Ella Fitzger‐ ald, Judy Garland and Patsy Cline (Feb 28), Queen cov‐ er geniuses God Save the Queen (Mar. 5) andSandy Hackett's Rat Pack Show (May 21). Classic Movie Mondays are back too, with $1 screenings of everyone's favorite licks most Monday nights. For tickets and information, go to ParamountAurora.com or call (630) 896-6666.

28 Aurora Times