Oakhurst ORACLE - Oakhurst Community Association

Oakhurst
ORACLE
The Newsletter of the Oakhurst Community Association
Back to School Issue
August 2013
Kerry Clemm & Kathy Lengiewicz
Steck Elementary PTA Co-Presidents
Hello Fellow Residents!
t is hard to believe that summer is already coming to an
end and the 2013-2014 school year is imminently upon us!
As many of us are gearing up for "Back to School" by
establishing routines, collecting supplies, and meeting new
teachers, we hope you will take a moment to join the PTA at our
local schools.
We all know PTA helps fund and organize fun programs at
school, such as assemblies and celebrations, but did you know
that a much larger portion of PTA funds go towards school
educational and support programs? Among other things, the PTA
funds teacher supplies for classrooms, educational extras, STEM
programming, as well as new and updated technology. Every
PTA is constantly evaluating the needs of the school it supports
to provide financial support where it's most needed.
When it comes to PTA support make no mistake that the
number one component is YOU. Your membership makes all this
possible and helps students take their school experience to a
higher level, but it also provides you with exclusive benefits and
discounts. We strongly urge you to become a member and offer
your support. Your membership is good for one school year so
you do need to update your membership, even if you have
belonged to PTA in the past.
Joining PTA does not obligate you to volunteer, but your
involvement would be greatly appreciated! We are a friendly
bunch and are starving for more help and fresh ideas! We have
volunteer opportunities that cover a wide range of interests and
time commitments! There are opportunities that appeal to singles,
working and stay-at-home parents, grandparents, retirees and
more. We welcome any help you are able to give!
It takes a strong community to support our schools and a
strong community is definitely what we are blessed to have here
in Oakhurst. Thank you for supporting your PTA through your
membership and involvement and have a wonderful school year!
I
INSIDE THIS ISSUE
Community Calendar ......................3
Classified Ads ..................................4
Neighborhood Safety Seminar ........4
WVHS 5K Run................................6
Steck Family Fun Run ....................6
Lovely Lines ....................................7
Five More Years to Fit In ................8
WVHS Pig Roast ............................9
New Playground at Eola CC ........11
Kindergarten Playgroup ................11
President’s Message ......................12
Nomination Form ..........................13
McCoy & Eola Proposal ................14
Working Youth Listing..................16
Fischer PTSA ................................17
Alderman’s Corner Ward 8 ..........18
WVHS Pancake Breakfast ............20
A Little Help for Our Trees ..........22
Steck PTA ......................................23
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Oakhurst Oracle
2013 Oakhurst Community
Association Meeting Schedule
Oakhurst homeowners and residents are
always welcome to attend. Association
meetings begin promptly at 7:00 p.m. in the
Oaks Clubhouse.
COMMUNITY CALENDAR
August - October 2013
8/15
Steck Kindergarten Meet-Up!
10 – 11 a, Oakhurst Park
8/16
McCarty “Back to School” Resale!
7 – 9 p, McCarty Elementary
8/17
McCarty “Back to School” Resale!
8 a – 1 p, McCarty Elementary
8/22
School Begins
8/23
WVHS 2013 Pig Roast!
4 – 8 p, Waubonsie Valley High School
8/24
WVHS Pancake Breakfast!
7:30 – 10:30 a, Waubonsie Valley High School
8/29
Final Thurs. – Aurora Farmers Market East
1 – 6 p, Our Lady of Mercy Church • 701 S. Eola
9/02
Labor Day – No School/Library Closed
9/03
No School – Building Articulation
9/08
Library re-opens on Sundays, 1:00 – 5:00 p
Until Memorial Day
9/11
Final Wed. – Aurora Farmers Market West
1 – 5 p, West Aurora Plaza, 1901 W. Galena Blvd.
9/21
Oakhurst Community Association
Board Nominations Due
9/22
Warriors on the Run 5K!
9 a, Waubonsie Valley High School
9/24
Oakhurst Community Association Meeting
7 p, Oaks Clubhouse
DEADLINE IS THE 26TH OF EACH MONTH
9/28
Steck Family Fun Run 5K & Mile!
9 a, Steck Elementary
COMMERCIAL ADVERTISERS CONTACT
10/01
Preferred Business Services, Inc.
971 Waterside Court • Aurora, IL 60502
630-585-9340 • Fax 630-585-8232
E-mail: fosterpbs@msn.com • pbspublications.com
Community Warm-Up Drive Begins
Eola Public Library thru 10/25
Get $1 off late fines or a free book for new or
gently used winter clothing donations.
10/14
Columbus Day – No School
10/16
No School (PM)
10/19
Final Sat. - Aurora Farmers Market
8 a – 12 p, Transportation Center • 233 N. Broadway
10/22
Oakhurst Community Association Meeting
Followed by the Annual Meeting
7 p, Oaks Clubhouse
September 24 • October 22
Fly Girl Fitness
by Vanessa
Classes Monday,
Tuesday Thursday
evenings!
$20 OFF first
session!
Join my high energy and fun Zumba
classes! Jump, shake, twist and burn
up to 800 calories per class!
Local dance studio Dance Dynamics
1709 Town Center Street #106
Aurora 60504
Contact Vanessa at 630-881-9003
Ditch the workout join the party!
Send articles for submission, non-profit club &
group notices, working youth listings and
classified ads such as
For Sale and Lost & Found to:
newsletter@oakhurstcommunity.org
or
The Oakhurst Oracle
c/o The Oakhurst Community Association
2218 Ogden Avenue, P.O. Box 113
Aurora, IL 60504
DEADLINE FOR AD COPY IS THE 15TH OF EACH MONTH
Publication of paid advertisements in this newsletter are
not an endorsement or recommendation of any advertised
product or service. The Oakhurst Community Association
is neither responsible nor liable for the content of any
advertisement published, herein.
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Oakhurst Oracle
CLASSIFIED ADS
WANTED - Interested in purchasing a Digital or DMD pinball
machine (1985-1997). Please call or text 630-362-3090. FOR
SALE - Pool bond with all 2013 dues paid in full. Enjoy the
rest of the swim season for just $900. 630-851-2323.
FOR SALE - Pool bond for sale $375 or best offer. All dues
are current and paid. Please call 630-567-2370 if interested.
FOR SALE - Three-piece furniture set, including a full-size
bookcase headboard, night stand, and four-drawer dresser.
Pottery Barn honey pine finish. Good condition $1000 or best
offer. Full-size, black, double pedestal bed with ample storage
underneath. 6 drawers on each side. Perfect for small rooms,
kids rooms, and dorm rooms $270 or best offer. Contact
Alexis Handel at 630-244-5535.
FOR SALE - Chicago Cubs seat cushion. Brand new with
official MLB-merchandise tags and handle. One side is royal
blue vinyl with "CHICAGO CUBS" lettering. Other side
resembles a baseball: soft, white with curved red stitching.
Round, 14" wide and 3 1/2" deep. $20. Ann at 630-820-9896.
FOR SALE - Men's clothes sizes range from 46 to 54, XL,
XXL, XXXL. Suits, jackets, pants, shirts. Some brand new
and some slightly used. All in very good condition. If interested
please call 630-978-6505.
FOR SALE - Looking for a unique and special piece of jewelry
for yourself or gift? Call Mishelle Williams at 630-851-6526 or
check out www.Mishelle.OrigamiOwl.com.
AVAILABLE - Local Oakhurst resident available for help
around the home. Light yardwork, dog walking, pet waste
removal, furniture moving, many services available. If
interested, please call Rob at 331-999-4957.
August 2013
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Oakhurst Oracle
J & J Painting
of Naperville, Inc.
“A house is an
investment that no
one wants ruined by a
bad paint job.”
• Exterior painting and staining
• Interior painting
• Only top of the line products used
• Fully insured
• Reference available - “Past jobs speak for
themselves!”
• Group rates
Start scheduling your exterior painting now!
“NO ONE will beat our job quality!”
CALL FOR A FREE ESTIMATE
630-551-7302
Kingston
Builders, Inc.
We specialize in all aspects
of new construction and
remodeling.
•
•
•
•
Room Additions
Kitchens
Decks
Basements
•
•
•
•
Bathrooms
Interior Trim
Exterior Trim
Guaranteed Work
Call JAY SCHMIDT
for a FREE Estimate
630-327-9735
Email: jay@kingstonbuildersinc.com
www.kingstonbuildersinc.com
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Lovely Lines
Swimming has to be one of life’s
greatest summer pleasures.
I recall going to the Peoria Park
swimming pool at the foot of Galena
hill. My brother Ray and I rode our
bikes to the top of the hill and then
walked through the wooded area to
the pool. I put baby oil on my skin
which proceeded to burn terribly each
and every summer. I remember
jumping off the high dive and being
scared to death. But I kept doing it
because I wanted to overcome my
fear. Once a lifeguard dove into the
deep water and lost his swim
trunks. All the other life guards
seemed to think that was quite
funny since it had happened to him
and not to them. Some summer
days I would take tennis lessons
and some days I would spend at
the Prospect Branch Library. I
wanted to read the 10 required
books so I could go to the party at
the end of the summer held at the
main branch and receive my gold star
certificate. Those childhood summers
were indolent and innocent.
Now I enjoy summer swimming
at the local swim center. This morning
I was in the fifth lane. The center
opens at 7 a.m. so I can swim the halfmile of 32 laps and be home by 7:50
a.m. I can swim a lap in about 55
seconds. The retired assistant
superintendent of the Batavia Schools
was in lane 4. He told me that he had
decided to learn to swim now that he
has the time. I replied that he seemed
to be learning very quickly and was
doing a fine job. The little Chinese
lady was in lane three. She always
uses a yellow swim board and never
gets her hair wet or takes off her
glasses. Her English is so poor I cannot
understand a word she says. She goes
at a very slow pace almost treading
water. A dad with his three year-old
son was in lane two and the mom was
in lane one. I watched the little boy
swim the length of the pool and
marveled at his endurance. I told his
dad that he was one lucky little boy to
learn to swim so young at the hands of
his father. Dad smiled. The lifeguard
David watched us all, ready to
intervene if trouble presented itself.
Back and forth we went.
Sometimes doing the back stroke,
sometimes the butterfly. The butterfly
is my favorite. By about lap 8, I am
breathing hard and I know that the
heart muscle is being strengthened.
Some days I do not feel like swimming
at all, but I get started and keep going
because it is such good exercise. I love
to float on my back, eyes closed,
feeling the beauty of the weightless
world. It is perfect peace. I enjoy
watching the babies and small
children taking their swimming
lessons. And I think what a great gift
they are being given to learn to swim
and enjoy the water as such tender
ages.
In 1943 due to wartime shortages,
the U.S. government decreed that
material for swimsuits had to be
restricted, so that brought about the
invention of the skimpy two-piece
swimsuit. “She Wore an Itsy-Bitsy
Jo Fredell Higgins
Teeny-Wenny Yellow Pot Dot Bikini”
was on top of the charts during the
1960s. I wore a bikini in my 20s, but
the memory is pretty vague. That’s
good.
Most swimmers today at the
center wear a one-piece suit. Some
wear swim hats and some don’t. Even
when I wear my Speedo swim hat, my
hair is completely wet, so I wash it
with Ultra Swim shampoo to
eliminate the chlorine. I went to put
my blue swim hat on the other day
and it tore apart. So I bought a new
white one for the remainder of this
season. I own several swimsuits,
but prefer the navy blue one with
small white polka dots.
Swimming was first recorded
in paintings during the Stone Age
about 7,000 years ago. Swimming
as an organized activity is recorded
in ancient Egypt around 2,500 BC.
The first heated swimming pool
was built by Gaius Maecenas of
Rome in the first century BC.
The first written reference was
around
2,000
BC.
Nicholaus
Wynmann wrote the first book on
swimming titled “The Swimmer” in
1538. Competitive swimming began in
Europe in 1800s. By 1862 the first
indoor pool was built in England. In
1875 Matthew Webb was the first
swimmer to cross the English
Channel. In 1912 women were
allowed to swim in the Olympics held
in Stockholm.
Swimming is the greatest of
pastimes. It is the best exercise
imaginable. I think in a previous life, I
actually was a dolphin. It feels like
home to me when I am in the water.
Or on the water. Or fishing. Or
boating. Or sailing. Or, of course,
swimming.
Jo Fredell Higgins is an internationally published and award-winning writer, photographer, historian and essayist. Jo was named a
"Community Champion" in 2012 by the Compassion Foundation for her volunteer work with 20 local organizations.
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August 2013
Oakhurst Oracle
five more years to fit in
By Ann E. Funck
ot another high school
reunion, I can hear you say.
Yep; it's been five years
since the 40th one, and my apricot
culottes and white crocheted short
sweater are still my favorite outfit. But I
couldn't wear it again because it's
memorialized in the front row of that
class reunion photo.
What to wear to the reunion and
finally fit in? Again, the site of carousal
was the yacht club on the lake. This
summer, evening temperatures were
often in the low 50s. We had the heat
and the air conditioning on in the same
week.
"I'll be there in undershirt and
shawl," I told a former classmate.
Shapeless ponchos are suddenly
popular. Maybe I could fool my
classmates with my old macramé
shawl.
I ended up wearing a flamboyant
dress with burgeoning red, white and
purple begonias all tussling for
prominence. Even though it's a decade
old, I thought it was a fun thing.
My friend Marian would be driving
us to the yacht club. She wore a navy
silk three-piece, with the sleeveless top
striped with white, and capri pants. She
looked classy enough to conduct a
Capital
Appreciation
Seminar
compared to me in my wild and kicky
dress which threatened to cartwheel
onto a stage.
"We look like man and wife,"
Marian said with a smirk.
The first event at the yacht club
would be Mass at 5:30 p.m.
“Let’s skip it,” Marian said.
“But what will we say when we
stroll in late?” I asked, actually
thinking: How rude!
“We’ll say we got lost.”
I convinced her to start out at 5:20
p.m. for the half hour trip, instead of
later, and we did get lost. The boys’
high school, who planned the reunion
with our school, was to post “helpful
signs along the way.”
I had to run into a fire station that
looked deserted to ask directions. The
fireman was pacing in the hall talking
N
on a cell phone.
“Where is the yacht club?”
“I don’t know. I’ve been here only a
year,” he said.
“What if we had a fire there
tonight?” I inquired.
“Well, that’s why we have this map
on the wall.”
When we finally hurried into the
club, I was disheveled. I demanded to
know where the signs were. I was
informed that Jay was in charge of
them. He was the hunkiest boy I’d gone
to grade school with. He was wearing
khakis, like guys do who admired Steve
McQueen, and I saw, above his belt
buckle, he still had Steve’s tight abs.
“The signs are on that table,” Jay
pointed. “They were too small to make
any difference, so I didn’t put them up.”
The black lettering was pretty
discreet on the 8½ by 11” sheets, but we
would have pulled over and read it.
He obviously hadn’t matured since
his grade school days. I didn’t know
him in high school because I never say
the boys’ high school, supposedly only
three blocks away, or even heard the
boys. After school, I had to ride the bus
straight home in the opposite direction.
I was on the loser list that required
blind dates for the school dances.
“We missed Mass,” I told Jay.
Marian and I tried to look downcast.
“There wasn’t any,” he replied.
“The two priests we called were out of
town.”
“Oh, that’s too bad,” Marian said,
with another smirk.
“You’ll have to do some powerdrinking to catch up,” someone said
behind me.
Well, as usual, I didn’t fit in. I was
the only soul wearing a dress. The
chunky nun who came fit in, though.
Especially in our class photo taken that
evening. She wore a sedate gray and
white ensemble that blended with her
white hair and plastic lawn chair and
faded into the standing rows behind
her.
The reunion gave me a chance to
distribute my business card to everyone
who would speak to me. I've awarded
over 400 cards so far — usually to
strangers. I explain that, though I have
no business, I have a name to be
reckoned with: Ann Funck. No “e” and
no middle name. What can they say?
I say: at least neither name is a four
letter word.
My best friend from grade school
came. Her business card told me that
her brilliant career of renting out
clowns is still vigorous.
Marian, who claims to have legs in
terrible shape, used the latest spray-on
pantyhose which, if you overlook the
orange smears that had rubbed off onto
one leg of her capris, looked fab. I
needed old-fashioned pantyhose to
disguise my foot wrinkles and attract
oglers.
Marian also is confident enough to
wear sleeveless tops, which I haven't
imposed on my associates for the last 20
years. I did compliment her on her
upper arms. She said she lifts weights. I
have weights; I use them as doorstops.
Well, there's another five years till
our 50th reunion to figure out how to
finally fit in. Just five to find the dress
that will make a statement, yet a subtle
one. It's funny how, of all the old
classmates I've talked to in the years
after graduation, not one thought she
was popular or smart enough. The two
or three who might have been don't
show up. The flotsams are still trying to
fit in — but now just for fun.
By our 50th, I'll bet no one will be
comparing. Just happy to be shuffling
in, flaws and all.
By then, we'll need those rented
clowns around. I'll wear another blingbling thing. And like the laughs. Ringa-ding-ding!
Fifteen years of Ann’s monthly true tales are now in a book titled, A CHEAP SEXY CAR & More Serious Humor. Entertainment for everyone, it
is 450 pages and $20 -- or $25 if mailed. For a copy, please email her at rfunck222@msn.com or call 630-820-9896.
August 2013
Oakhurst Oracle
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August 2013
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SUTFIN MECHANICAL
• Furnaces
• Air Conditioning
• Water Heaters
• Humidifiers
• Air Cleaners
• Boilers
• Heat Pumps
• UV Lights
• Thermostats
• Maintenance Plans
Family owned and operated by a
Naperville resident.
630-778-6100
Scan or Visit
Sutfin Mechanical.com
for cost-saving
coupons!
August 2013
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Oakhurst Oracle
New Playground for
Eola Community Center
Do you have a child entering
Kindergarten at Steck Elementary
School next year?
A new, modern-style playground with age-specific
features will soon be built adjacent to the Eola
Community Center following approval by the Fox Valley
Park District Board of Trustees.
Would you like them to meet their
classmates and make new friends
before school starts in August?
Highlights include a small-scale water spray/splash pad,
a brick entry patio and a four-square play area. The
playground will feature a rubberized, multi-colored
surface instead of traditional mulch. Other features
include a single-bobble rider, seesaw, spinner bowl and
separate areas targeting children in age range of 2 to 5
and 5 to 12.
PLEASE JOIN US FOR THE
STECK SUMMER
KINDERGARTEN
MEET UP GROUP!
“This exciting project will offer expanded playground
opportunities for the many young participants who are
involved in programs at Eola,” said facility manager Ivan
Chambers. “It’s also a great stopping-off point for families
that utilize the popular Waubonsie Lake trails nearby.”
The total play area will be expanded to accommodate
separate, additional play structures and assorted freestanding pieces. Completion is expected by early fall.
WVHS Marching Band
Pancake Breakfast Fundraiser
Come out and enjoy breakfast with your family!
Saturday, August 24, 2013
7:30-10:30 a.m. WVHS Cafeteria
Cost at door $5.00/person or $15.00/family
Kids 4 and under are free!
See page 20 for more details on this event!
Proceeds will support the Marching Warriors’ participation in four
major band competitions this fall. Thank you for your support!
We will meet at the playground at
Oakhurst Park
in front of the clubhouse on
August 15th, 2013
10:00 - 11:00 a.m.
We will have a small snack, do some ice
breaker activities and play at the park together!
This is a volunteer, parent run group. A parent
is required to stay and siblings are welcome.
Additional dates and activities will be scheduled
based on interest. If you would like to be on the
email list, please email
steckkindergarten@gmail.com.
Any questions, comments or suggestions can be
directed to
Carrie Bessey (630-251-6324) or
Kerry Clemm (630-957-8439), or send to
steckkindergarten@gmail.com.
Hope to see you there!
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August 2013
Oakhurst Oracle
President’s Message
By Bill Bernard
T
he key to Oakhurst's image is its 10
monument walls and the
landscaping at the intersection of
Eola Road and McCoy Drive. These are
some of the board's highest priority items
along with overall landscaping for keeping
Oakhurst's appeal and value visible to
everyone who passes through our
neighborhoods.
We were informed late last year that our
monument walls are in need of significant
repair in order to keep them both safe and
beautiful. Based on that concern, the
board commissioned an engineering study
of the monuments and those results were
presented to the board at last month's
meeting. Armed with this information, the
board will be budgeting for the repairs and
maintenance, as well as working with our
engineering firm to identify a vendor to
perform the work. This will be an
expensive project and will take a
significant portion of our reserves
to complete. However, the alternative –
the continued decay of these monuments
– is unacceptable.
So, too, is the decay of the landscaping at
McCoy and Eola. This intersection is the
most visible in all of Oakhurst, and the
health of the plantings, as well as the
general lack of visual interest is a
significant concern. The board has chosen
to work with our landscaper on concepts
for improving the pop and flair of the
landscaping here. One concept that we
are working with is included on page 14 in
this newsletter.
We are striving to choose materials that
will be hardy and survive the salt spray
from these major roads, provide interest
and color year round, and promote
Oakhurst to all who pass by.
Unfortunately, we have identified that the
first order of business is to remove the
spruce trees from the existing
landscaping. These trees are dying,
having been planted too close together,
too close to the maple trees behind them,
and too close to the bushes in front of
them. Failure to remove them swiftly will
cause additional issues with the other
existing plantings that we are not yet
ready to remove or replace.
This will have to be a multi-year project,
based on both the expense of the
monument repairs, and the board's desire
to be financially responsible to
homeowners whose annual dues are the
association’s only funds for these projects.
We ask your patience as we make the
necessary changes to ensure this first look
many have of Oakhurst can become a real
showpiece.
HOMEOWNER UPDATES
Residents are responsible for informing
the association of a change of address or
name. If you belong to a condo or
townhome association, you must make
sure to report your change of address
with both the Oakhurst Community
Association and the condo or
townhome association. If you are
making a name change, legal
documentation, such as a marriage
certificate, must be supplied. Please call
630-897-0500 or fax 630-897-2440.
WATER
Please water any young trees and shrubs
planted by the city or association to
enhance the beauty of our community.
Proper watering is vital to their survival.
During periods of low rainfall, please water
generously every 7 to 10 days. Thank
you!
PRUNING
Please trim any parkway trees that
overhang our neighborhood streets and
sidewalks, impair driver visibility or block
signage. Also, please prune any bushes
that protrude over sidewalks and impede
walkers or bicyclists in our community.
Thank you!
REMOVAL & REPLACEMENT OF
PARKWAY TREES
If the city has removed your parkway Ash
tree due to Emerald Ash Borer infestation,
call Customer Service at 630-256-4636 to
request planting of a replacement tree.
See www.aurora-il.org for more
information and the “City of Aurora
Approved Street Tree Species List.”
NEW CITY IRRIGATION RULES
Lawn watering is permitted between 6 to 9
a.m. and 6 to 9 p.m. on odd or even
calendar days based on the last digit of a
resident’s street address number.
Permanently installed in-ground watering
systems now fall under the same oddeven system and times. Watering with a
hand-held hose is permitted at all times.
See www.aurora-IL.org for more
information!
LAWN / PROPERTY VIOLATIONS
Please keep Oakhurst beautiful! Report
lawn and trash violations to the City of
Aurora at (630) 256-4636. Please mow
your property regularly and keep it free of
weeds and dead plant material. Dispose
of junk and trash properly.
VAUGHN STREET PROPERTIES
Unkempt properties along Vaughn Road
have prompted a number of phone calls to
the Baum Property management office.
These properties are not part of the
Oakhurst Community Association, but are
located in Naperville Township.
Complaints regarding these properties
should be directed to the Naperville
Township office at 630-355-2786.
RECREATIONAL VEHICLE VIOLATIONS
Recreational vehicles may be parked in a
driveway for no more than 24 hours for
loading. Violations regarding recreational
vehicles parking for longer should be
submitted, in writing, on a signed, witness
violation complaint form. Download the
form from the Oakhurst Website.
Violations of this type may also be
reported to the City of Aurora at 630-2564636. Recreational vehicles parked on
streets should be reported to the City of
Aurora.
BLOCKED SIDEWALK VIOLATIONS
Any vehicle parking on the sidewalk
should be reported to the City of Aurora at
(630) 256-4636. It is unlawful to park on
any sidewalk, except within 24 hours after
a snowfall and then only upon the
driveway of a residential premise.
BOARD NOMINATIONS DUE
SEPTEMBER 21, 2013
Nominations are being taken for the
upcoming Board of Directors’ election at
our Annual Meeting on September 24.
Four board positions will be filled. Please
consider nominating yourself or a fellow
Oakhurst owner. Completed forms should
be returned to Baum Property Services no
later than Friday, September 21, 2013.
See page 13 for Nomination Form.
Keep Oakhurst
Beautiful!
August 2013
Oakhurst Oracle
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August 2013
Oakhurst Oracle
WORKING YOUTH DIRECTORY
NAME
ABINGTON WOODS
Kevin Lubinski
ASHBROOK
Friday Gervais
Tori Hall
Achint Nagasamudra
Alex Tabb
Sonja Tabb
Juliana Yaacoub
AUTUMN MEADOWS
Kelly Ellam
Mike Ellam
Drew Ellam
Nikki Ellam
Alexia Lyons
Natalie Lyons
Zachary Lyons
BRECKENRIDGE
Tara Dillinger
Carla Dillinger
Christian Freitag
Ryan Kallas
Andrew Kallas
Jason Paximadas
Richard Poterack
Ally Reilly
CARRIAGE ESTATES
Madeline Butler
Adam Krusic
Jessica Groves
Kim Groves
HUNTERS GLEN
Chelsea Dean
INVERNESS
Caroline Church
Natalie Church
Kristen Dodson
Caitlin Fernandez
Alexis Gottschalk
Madison Herman
Shelby Herr
Calvin Houghton
Lincoln Houghton
Morgan Kemerling
Casey Kemerling
Aleksandra Masiak
Jordan Masiak
Remington Rook
Katie Rumrey
PHONE
SERVICE
630-770-2254
B,MH,P,Y,O,V
630-820-3329
630-898-9295
630-978-1781
630-978-1571
630-978-1571
815-341-1784
B,MH,P,V
B,P,MH,V
B,P,Y,O,V
Y,O
B-RC,MH
B,P,V
630-851-9029
630-851-9029
630-851-9029
630-851-9029
630-898-6160
630-898-6160
630-898-6160
B-RC,P,MH,V
B,Y,P,O,V
B,Y,P,O,V
B,P,MH,O,V
B-RC,P,V
B-RC,P,V
B,Y,P,O
630-236-6320
630-236-6320
630-499-1839
630-820-8790
630-820-8790
630-499-5846
630-585-0384
630-585-5111
B-RC,P,V
B,P,MH,V
P,Y,O,V
P,V,O,Y
P,V
P
B,P,MH,O,V
B,MH,P,O,V
630-373-5232
630-499-5431
630-851-8326
630-851-8326
B-RC,MH,P,V
Y,P
MH,V
B,MH
630-962-9708
B,Y,MH,V
630-499-9899
630-499-9899
630-820-4065
630-898-7214
630-851-5169
630-585-6855
630-978-1060
630-820-1971
630-820-1971
630-499-0437
630-499-0437
630-236-6434
630-236-6434
630-585-6788
630-898-1236
B-RC,P,Y,O,V
P
B,P
B-RC,MH,P,Y,O,V
P,MH,O,V
B,P,MH,O,V
B,P
B,P,Y,O,V
Y,P,MH,O,V
B,Y,P,MH,O,V
Y,P,O,V
B-RC,MH,Y,O,V
B,Y,P,MH,O,V
B,P,MH,O
B,MH
NAME
INVERNESS
Jennifer Vickers
Allison Vickers
Emily Vickers
Lauren Vivian
Amy Walsh
Abe Weisler
Sam Weisler
Jonah Weisler
MAYFAIR
Sarah Anas
Katie Caputo
Kayla Cordes
Kendra Diehl
Audra Diehl
Emily Flori
Lucas Flori
Scott Hoglund
Amy Lenenfeld
Kaitlyn Manion
Hanna McIntosh
Allison Readnour
Paige Readnour
Connor Readnour
Schuyler Staub
Ginna White
Anne Wesley
STANFIELD
Julia Beer
Nicholas Brunelle
Natale Brunelle
Loretta Elder
Brooke Kottkamp
SUMMERFIELD
Hannah Buckner
Alesia Degand
Marianna Guerrieri
Gina Guerrieri
Ashley Murray
Tara Perillo
Audria Wagenknecht
Ellen Wagenknecht
Taylor Westwood
THE WOODS
Taylor Kolb
Megan Lachat
Michael Lachat
Thomas Lachat
Haley Valente
PHONE
SERVICE
630-820-5443
630-820-5443
630-820-5443
630-851-9179
630-820-1255
630-236-7522
630-236-7522
630-236-7522
B,MH
MH,V,P
P,O,V
B,P
B,MH
B,RC,P,Y,O,V
B,RC,P,Y
B,RC,P,Y,V
630-692-0538
630-675-0452
630-978-4641
630-229-0165
630-229-0165
630-898-4505
630-898-4505
630-236-6242
630-236-9070
630-499-7428
630-820-2959
630-499-0137
630-499-0137
630-499-0137
630-820-3661
630-692-1862
630-898-5985
B,P,MH
B,P,MH,V
B,MH,P,O,V
B,P,MH,V
B,P,MH,V
B,P
Y,P,O
P,Y,O,V
MH,P,V
B-RC,MH,P,V
B,MH
B,P,V
B,P, V
P,Y,V
B,P,O
B-RC,MH,P,YO,V
B-RC,P
630-585-2206
630-499-0581
630-499-0581
630-375-6803
630-978-1515
B,P,Y,O,V
MH,O,P,Y,V
B,MH,O,P,Y,V
B,V,O
B,P,MH,V
630-585-6312
630-236-8767
630-375-9467
630-375-9467
630-375-9101
630-615-0045
630-499-5837
630-499-5837
630-851-5067
B,MH,P
B,P,MH,V
B,MH,V
B,P,MH,V
B,P,V
B,Y,P,MH,V
B,Y,P,MH,O,V
B,Y,P,MH,O,V
B-RC,MH,V
630-585-5164
630-236-7920
630-236-7920
630-236-7920
630-375-9473
B,MH,O,V
B,P,MH,V
B,Y,P,O,V
B,Y,P,O,V
P,Y,MH
Notify newsletter@oakhurstcommunity.org to ADD, CHANGE, or DELETE a Working Youth Listing.
The Working Youth Directory is a service for youth, ages 12 and above, living in the Oakhurst community.
Parents: If you wish your child to be listed in this directory, please email newsletter@oakhurstcommunity.org. Include your child's
name, address, neighborhood within Oakhurst, home phone number of a parent who will be responsible for fielding requests, and
the service(s) you permit your child to provide. Be sure to talk with your child about personal safety before listing in this directory.
Each monthly issue of the Oracle is posted online to the community association's website, www.oakhurstcommunity.org.
B-RC: Red-Cross Certified Babysitter, B: Babysitter, MH: Mother's Helper, P: Pet Sitter, Y: Yard Help,
O: Odd Jobs, V: Vacation Watch
August 2013
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Alderman’s
Rick Mervine
Alderman 8th Ward • www.MyWard8.com • AldermanMervine@aol.com 331-452-5136
RiverEdge Park
City Of Aurora
Downtown Aurora on the Fox River
New Watering Regulations
August 16th – Peter Frampton, B.B King, more
August 17th – The Pink Floyd Experience
August 18th – Brigit Mendler & R5
August 23rd – Full Moon Fever, Tom Petty trib.
August 24th - Bruce Hornsby, Two Brothers
August 30th – Get the LED Out, Amer. LED Zep
For more info: www.RiverEdgeAurora.com
Odd/Even watering system in effect:
• Based on the last number in your address and the date
• May water between 6 - 9 AM and then again from 6 to
9PM
• Both regular and in-ground systems
• Areas without address considered even
• No watering August 31st
Q & A with the 8th Ward Alderman
A
t least once a year, I like to use this format to touch
on a number of topics at once. Most of these
questions are taken from those I’ve been asked by
residents in recent weeks. Please note the special events and
information in the boxes. There’s a lot going on!
Q: Do our streets get swept?
A: Yes, usually about 4 or 5 times a year. This happens more in
the spring and fall in an attempt to keep the street drains cleared
of debris to keep storm water flowing into the drains.
Q: Are all Ash trees destined to die off?
A: Not necessarily. There are some species of Ash trees that
appear to be more resistant to the EAB than others but they are
not the predominate numbers that were planted.
Q: Is the city planning for traffic redirection as road construction
looms in the next few years?
A: Yes. The current traffic synchronization project improving
traffic signals and synchronizing them will be complete by the end
of the year for all major city roads. Aurora traffic engineers are
working with IDOT and project engineers to determine the
detours with the least amount of impact and protect the
neighborhoods at the same time. More on this as we approach
each project.
Q: How is the city doing financially?
A: The city operates with a balanced budget and keeps required
reserves to pay our bills on time. Its bond ratings are superior
and we are able to replace equipment, resurface streets and
maintain services. The EAB problem adds expense as does every
major storm but the City Council and the city staff have a
controlled spending approach in an attempt to maintain our way
of life and protect our property. Key focus in the coming years
will be the expansion of the city’s already successful economic
development efforts to bring more jobs and non-residential
property tax.
Q: Why does it seem that construction projects all seem to
happen at once, particularly those coming in the next few years?
A: Many of these projects have their origin 5 to 10 years earlier
and are all competing for the same thing – money. Aurora uses a
variety of sources to fund road construction projects including
motor fuel tax funds, state and federal sources. When the
funding becomes available and you are ready for the project you
say ‘YES!’ The alternative is to delay or get at the end of the
funding line again. Grants are a very good source of funding but
may not always be available. We jump on them when they are.
Q: The city cut down my parkway tree and I would like it
replaced? What are the plans?
A: Since the city will cut down 4,000 trees this year and usually
cuts and replaces 300, replacement will not come as fast. The
number of replacements for 2013 hasn’t been determined yet but
I don’t expect them to be more than 1200 – 1300. There is also a
plan in the works to allow residents to replace the tree from an
approved tree species list or participate in the cost of
replacement so it happens sooner. That information isn’t ready
for release yet but I’ll let you know when I know. For now, if you
lost a parkway tree, call Customer Service (630-256-INFO) and tell
them you would like a replacement. At least make certain you are
on that list when it does happen. One more thing – yes, there are
a lot of dead trees to remove and they know about them. They’re
working 2 shifts, 6 days a week to get them.
Q: What are the plans for Waubonsie Lake?
A: This is another tough year for the look of the lake. Very clear
water and shallow conditions make it perfect for algae and weed
growth. Fertilizer use on our lawns doesn’t help. The most
recent estimate to solve the problem is upwards of $2.4 million,
not money the city has laying around. We are looking at
alternatives to some of the methodology and other funding
sources to solve the situation but that will take some additional
time. It doesn’t look nice but the lake is healthier than it’s been
in years.
Continued on next page...
August 2013
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Alderman’s Corner, continued...
With the end of summer approaching, kids are headed back to school soon. Many of our neighborhood
kids walk to school. Drive your neighborhood streets as though lives depended on it – they do!
NO TEXTING, stay focused and SLOW DOWN!
Annual Shred Event
Our Very Own Farmer’s Market
Saturday, September 7th, 8:00 a.m. to Noon
Fire Station 8, McCoy at Gregory, west of mall
Every Thursday, 1:00 to 6:00 p.m.
Our Lady of Mercy, Eola Rd. next to library
• Bring your personal papers and records for shredding
• Up to 5 bankers boxes allowed
• Paper and files only
• When the trucks are full, it’s over!
• Fresh farm to table products
• Daily picked sweet corn
• Pet supplies, breads, crafts & more
• Through August 29th
Look up, focus on the road and Keep Them
Alive, DRIVE 25! Remember, 20 MPH in the
SCHOOL ZONE when children are present!
It is my pleasure to serve our 8th Ward,
Rick Mervine, 8th Ward Alderman
AldermanMervine@aol.com (331) 452-5136
Customer Service Line: (630) 256-INFO (4636)
(M – F, 7 a.m. to 7 p.m.)
unique educational experience that
will prepare them for 21st century
careers.”
Quinn Announces $3.5
Million for STEM
School
Governor Pat Quinn announced a
$3.5 million capital investment to
help build the John C. Dunham
STEM (Science, Technology,
Engineering and Math) Academy at
Aurora University. The investment
will allow construction of the school
to begin immediately and open for
the 2014-2015 school year.
“We must be sure that all of today’s
children are prepared and ready for
the opportunities of tomorrow,”
Governor Quinn said. “STEM
education is hands-on approach to
learning that makes the classroom to
come to life and allows minds to
grow. I commend the entire Aurora
community for collaborating on this
effort to ensure our students get a
"It is clear that STEM education is
essential in preparing our students
for thriving careers in the global
workforce,” Aurora Mayor Tom
Weisner said. “The John C. Dunham
STEM Partnership School at Aurora
University will be the educational
epicenter for Aurora’s third through
eighth grade students and their
teachers who are leading the way in
Science, Technology, Engineering
and Math.”
When fully operational, the John C.
Dunham STEM Partnership School
on the Aurora University campus will
serve approximately 200 students in
third through eighth grades from four
area public school districts: Aurora
East, Aurora West, Indian Prairie
District 204 and Oswego. The
school’s curriculum will be aligned to
new educational standards and is
being developed cooperatively by
the four participating districts, the
university, the corporate sector, and
governmental and not-for-profit
partners.
2013 Aurora’s Farmers
Market Dates &
Locations
Aurora’s Farmers Market - East
Every Thursday through - August 29
New Hours: 1:00 – 6:00 p.m.
New Location: Our Lady of Mercy
Church - 701 E. Eola Road, Aurora
Open every Thursday afternoon for
your convenience on your way home
from work. Shop Aurora's Farmers
Market for seasonal favorites! Join
neighbors and come enjoy the
familiar flavors. Each week with our
Healthy Growing Initiative, your
shopping experience includes a
variety of fresh fruits and vegetables.
Aurora’s Farmers Market Downtown
Every Saturday through October 19
New Hours: 8:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.
New Location: Aurora Transportation
Center - 233 N. Broadway, Aurora
Aurora’s Farmers Market - West
Every Wednesday through September 11
New Hours: 1:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m.
Location: West Aurora Plaza 1901 W. Galena Blvd.
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Come join us for a free
trial day from 9am - 12pm!
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August 2013
A Little Help Goes a Long Way
Trees beautify and lend value to our homes, neighborhoods, parks
and business areas. At the same time, trees conserve energy, help
clean the air, protect rivers and streams, and provide a habitat for
wildlife. For these reasons, the City of Aurora encourages parkway
tree planting in the community.
“The City owns and maintains all of Aurora parkway trees. Trees are
pruned when necessary throughout the year. We ask residents
help out by watering trees during drought conditions. Newly
planted trees need special attention to ensure they become
established. It would be helpful if residents water new parkway
trees every 10-14 days, for two years after transplanting. If
there is a problem with a parkway tree, please call Customer
Service at (630) 256-INFO (4636).
The City plants a limited quantity of 2-inch caliper trees each year along city-owned parkways. A majority of
the trees are planted in fall; however some tree species are planted in the spring because they respond better
to transplanting at this time. Fall planting is usually finished by mid-November while spring planting is
completed by mid-May.
The City tries to follow a tree-planting program that insures a wide diversity of tree species is planted
throughout the community. Species diversity is an important step to help prevent against substantial tree
canopy loss due to devastating diseases like the Dutch Elm disease of the 1950s and 60s, and more recently
the Emerald Ash Borer.
The City recently updated its Approved Street Tree Species List to include more than 70 different species.
Many of the selections are trees native to Northern Illinois or improved cultivars bred to handle the tough site
conditions and compacted soils found along our urban parkways.”
The Oakhurst Board of Directors strongly encourages residents to help the City of Aurora by watering
parkway trees, and even pruning trees overhanging streets and sidewalks. The City is overwhelmed by the
side effects of the EAB infestation and past droughts. City crews are working around the clock, Monday
through Saturday, just to keep up with the removal of dead Ash trees.
The Oakhurst BoD appeals to your generosity and understanding, that water sustains life, to water newly
planted material on berms and neighborhood sign beds, if in reachable distance.
We greatly appreciate every help in this matter.
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Comprehensive Pain Management
for Patients
Pain is very personal. No patient has exactly the same
experience. Your pain may be the result of an injury, stress,
disease, age or another medical condition. As such, no single
treatment will adequately resolve every need. That’s why Valley
Pain Care Centers offers a broad range of pain management
services. Whether you need help targeting specific symptoms
or you want a more holistic and functional medicine approach,
our experienced team of practitioners can help.
Conditions & Treatments
Gregory Arnold, M.D.
Director of Valley Pain Care Centers
With our comprehensive services, we
provide care for a variety of
conditions, including:
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
Herniated or ruptured discs
Pain in the arms and legs
Back pain
Muscle pain
Lingering post-operative pain
Nerve or neuropathic pain
Cancer pain
Shingles
Reflex sympathetic dystrophy or
complex regional pain syndrome
• Failed back syndrome
• Vertebral compression fractures
• Osteoporosis
To treat pain, we create plans that
combine conventional techniques
with:
• Interventional pain management
with precision injections
• Functional medicine
• Pain injections with the option of
having sedation with an anesthesia
provider
Turner Pain & Wellness
1222 North Eola Rd.
Aurora, IL 60502
630-499-8804
Jeremiah Loch, CRNA, PhD
Vincent Tello, M.D.
Through our holistic and functional
medicine approach, we want to help
patients:
• Improve overall health and well-being
• Understand how manual medicine,
homeopathy, and botanicals can be
used alongside conventional medical
techniques and practices
• Prevent future pain by targeting the
causes of their pain
• Create a personalized therapeutic
approach to care
Kiswaukee Community
Hospital
One Kish Hospital Dr.
DeKalb, IL 60115
www.kishhospital.org
815-748-2987
St. Margaret’s Hospital
600 E. First Street
Spring Valley, IL 61362
815-664-PAIN (7246)
Valley West
Community Hospital
11 East Pleasant Ave.
Sandwich, IL 60548
www.valleywest.org
815-786-8484
www.valleypaincarecenters.com
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SICK & TIRED OF BEING SICK & TIRED?
Begin to Change with Access Bars Session for
emotional and body pains such as Stress, Disease,
Food and/or People Difficulties, Depression, Addictions,
Fertility, “Negative” Thinking, Money Issues,
Victimization Patterns and more.
Erika James - Change Coach
(630)387-9228
iamerikajames@gmail.com
Oakhurst Community Association
P.O. Box 46
Aurora, IL 60507-0046
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