The Naperville Park District will put a $120 million bond sale question on the March 2026 election ballot, scaled back from the initial $135 million referendum that had been discussed.

Naperville Park Board members voted unanimously Thursday night to pursue the modified referendum after evaluating resident feedback, including the responses to a survey mailed to more than 53,000 households and texted to more than 60,000 people in the fall that received more than 8,000 responses.

“To have over 8,000 responses to the survey, a 15% response rate for a community of our size, that’s a tremendous response,” Executive Director Brad Wilson said.

Results showed that 53% of respondents were likely to vote “yes” on the measure, 42% were likely to vote “no” and 5% were undecided. The strongest reason for opposition was concern over property taxes, survey results showed.

Specifically, 44% of respondents indicated they were either somewhat or much more likely to support the original estimated annual tax increase of $139 for a home with a fair market value of $500,000 and 34% were much or somewhat less likely to support it.

About 56% of respondents said they believed property taxes were too high, which was the strongest reason cited in opposition to the proposal.

A majority of residents said purchasing more outdoor land and construction of a Frontier Sports Complex in south Naperville were their highest priority for bond-related projects, both receiving a net support rating of 19%.

Other projects, including upgrades to the Nike Sports Complex, Wolf’s Crossing Community Park and County Lakes Park and refrigerated outdoor ice rinks, received significantly less support.

In response to the feedback, the district trimmed the referendum proposal to cover just the two projects with the greatest support, decreasing the referendum request from $135 million to $120 million.

As a result of the new amount, the tax impact for residents has also dropped. If approved, the new estimated annual tax impact of the bond sale is $117 — less than $10 per month — for a home with a fair market value of $500,000.

Officials say that even with the addition of the bonds, Naperville will still have one of the lowest park district tax rates in the area, according to the district’s website.

As currently envisioned, a new Frontier Sports Complex activity center would have indoor swimming pools, gym space and group exercise rooms, among other features. The price tag is estimated at $119 million.

The district also is eyeing the purchase of 6.5 acres of land adjacent to Heritage Woods in north Naperville and 5.7 acres of wooded property near Walnut Ridge Park at a total of about $5 million, money for which would come from district budget reserves.

“It’s really not our choice whether or not this referendum goes through. It’s the people’s choice. It’s the people’s voices that we want to hear from,” park board member Alison Thompson said, who called the referendum a “win-win” regardless of the outcome.

“Either we get a great new project, an exciting new project we get to work on or we’ve heard from you guys and you said ‘no’ and we can point to that and say, ‘Naperville doesn’t want or need this right now,’” Thompson said.

The referendum comes in response to growing community demands for more services and facilities. Prior research conducted by the district indicated that residents want to see more outdoor trails and indoor recreation spaces, particularly more aquatic facilities.

Beyond that, membership and use continue to climb at the district’s Fort Hill Activity Center. Compared to last year, fitness center use is up by 19%, park district officials said at a Nov. 13 board meeting. Personal training at Fort Hill is up by 28%, group exercise is up by 13% and track use is up by 23%.

While the most recent survey results show the referendum is likely to pass, there has been opposition to the measure. Notably, the Fry Family YMCA and the YMCA of Metropolitan Chicago have urged the park district to halt the referendum, citing concerns over duplicative services and an unnecessary financial burden on residents.

YMCA officials said the proposed Frontier Sports Complex is too similar and too close in proximity to other facilities in south Naperville, including the Fry Family YMCA. District officials disagree, saying they don’t see it competing with other facilities, the district website said.

“We know this referendum is not going to fulfill what everyone wants,” board member Aishwarya Balakrishna said. “At the end of the day, our job is to find balance and find the best possible solution that will address the park district’s gaps and the needs of the entire community.”

Fry Family YMCA Executive Director Erika Wood said Friday that she understands why the board approved the referendum.

“We respect the park board’s decision to move forward, and now the community will have the opportunity to evaluate whether they believe the proposal is the most efficient and best way to meet the needs of Naperville,” Wood said.

cstein@chicagotribune.com

https://www.chicagotribune.com/2025/12/12/naperville-frontier-park-center-referendum-election/ 

Seven players from Class 8A state runner-up Oswego highlight the first and second teams.

First Team Offense

Alfonso Aguilar, West Aurora, senior, offensive line: Considered one of program’s best ever on offense. Also played on defense. Conference’s lineman of the year.

Brett Berggren, Batavia, senior, wide receiver: Caught 61 passes for 996 yards and 13 touchdowns. Ran for 243 yards, three TDs. Holds program receiving record with 2,113 yards. All-conference.

Jake Buckley, Kaneland, senior, offensive line: Two-way starter led attack that netted 2,514 yards rushing. Had 40 tackles, 10 for loss. All-state. Conference’s lineman of the year. Committed to North Central College.

Caden DuMelle, Jacobs, senior, running back: Had 152 carries for 1,342 yards, 15 TDs. School career rushing leader with 3,622 yards, 39 TDs. All-state. All-conference.

Zach Hultgren, Burlington Central, senior, offensive line: Key blocker for offense that ran for more than 2,000 yards, with no sacks allowed, no penalties. Honorable mention all-state. All-conference. Committed to Miami of Ohio.

Asa Johnson, Aurora Christian, senior, quarterback: Completed 65% of passes (191 of 294) for 2,597 yards and 32 touchdowns. Ran for 717 yards, 14 TDs. All-state. Conference’s player of the year. Committed to Northern Illinois.

Cooper Kowalczyk, St. Charles North, senior, offensive line: Third-year starter for offense that had 4,778 total yards. All-conference. Committed to Western Illinois.

Gavin Mueller, South Elgin, senior, tight end: Caught 32 passes for 515 yards, 20 TDs. Had 59 carries, 546 yards, three TDs. All-state. All-conference. Committed to Miami.

Ryan Myers, Batavia, senior, offensive line: Powered offense that ran for 2,457 of its 5,180 total yards. All-state. Conference’s offensive lineman of year. Committed to Princeton.

Keaton Reinke, St. Charles North, senior, wide receiver: Caught 51 passes for 819 yards, six TDs. All-state. All-conference. Committed to Northwestern.

Michael Vander Luitgaren, Batavia, junior, quarterback: Completed 65% of passes (193 of 297) for 2,708 yards and 31 TDs with four interceptions. Ran for 204 yards, three TDs. Conference’s offensive player of the year.

Jasiah Watson, Oswego East, senior, running back: Ran for 1,271 yards, 13 TDs. All-conference. Honorable mention all-state.

South Elgin’s Gavin Mueller (1) breaks free on a run against West Aurora during a Upstate Eight West game in Aurora on Friday, Sept. 19, 2025. (Sean King / The Beacon-News)

First Team Defense

Wyatt Brandt, St. Charles North, senior, linebacker: Had 90 tackles, seven for loss, three sacks. All-conference.

Andrew Culotta, Batavia, senior, defensive back: Had 56 tackles, 22 passes defended, three interceptions. All-conference.

Noah Hedlund, Burlington Central, senior, linebacker: Had 74 tackles, four for loss, three pass breakups. Honorable mention all-state. Conference’s defensive player of the year.

Tyler Meziere, Bartlett, senior, cornerback: Had 24 tackles, five interceptions, two returned for TDs, four pass breakups. Filled in at quarterback, passing for 517 yards and six TDs, running for 614 yards and 10 TDs. As receiver, caught 14 passes for 226 yards, three TDs. All-conference.

Tony Minnec, Batavia, senior, linebacker: Had 98 tackles, 26 for loss, four sacks, 21 hurries, two interceptions. Conference’s defensive player of the year.

Aidan Nuno, Burlington Central, senior, defensive line: Two-way starter had 39 tackles, eight for loss, seven sacks, 29 pressures. Also had 37 pancake blocks, no sacks allowed. All-state. Conference’s lineman of the year.

Gavin Pecor, Batavia, senior, defensive line: Had 48 tackles, 19 for loss, seven sacks, 40 pressures. Honorable mention all-state. Conference’s defensive lineman of the year.

Lucas Retzler, Jacobs, senior, defensive line: Two-way starter had 60 tackles, seven for loss, five sacks, two forced fumbles on defense. Honorable mention all-state. All-conference.

Dylan Reyes, Geneva, senior, defensive back: Four-year varsity standout had 49 tackles, two for loss, two interceptions. All-conference.

Kaleb Stumpenhorst, Oswego, senior, kicker/punter: Made 26 of 26 extra-point kicks and 13 of 16 field-goal attempts, with career long of 50 yards and 42-yarder in final minute to win playoff semifinal. Had 31 touchbacks on 43 kickoffs.

Conor Tully, Oswego, senior, linebacker: Had 116 tackles, 9 1/2 for loss, four passes defended, two forced fumbles after missing previous season due to injury.

Mariano Velasco, Oswego, senior, cornerback: Two-way starter had 51 1/2 tackles, 11 for loss, nine pass breakups, six interceptions, returning four for TDs. Caught 30 passes for 753 yards, 10 TDs. All-state. All-conference.

Oswego’s Conor Tully (40) reacts after a sack against Lane Tech during a Class 8A second-round playoff game at Lane Stadium in Chicago on Saturday, Nov. 8, 2025. (Talia Sprague / The Beacon-News)

Second Team Offense

Darin Ashiru, Batavia, junior, wide receiver: Caught 55 passes for 819 yards, six TDs. All-conference.

Mason Atkins, West Aurora, senior, quarterback: Completed 62% of passes (95 of 154) for 1,512 yards, 21 TDs, five interceptions. Holds school career records for passing yards with 4,467 and TDs with 62. Ran for 602 yards, eight TDs. Honorable mention all-state. All-conference. Signed with Ball State.

Henry Crumlett, Burlington Central, senior, offensive line: Three-year starter allowed no sacks or pressures in one of Rockets’ strongest position groups. All-conference.

Gavin Delaney, Yorkville, senior, offensive line: Two-year starter at right tackle powered Foxes’ run back to playoffs. All-conference.

Jake Eissens, Aurora Christian, senior, offensive line: Two-way starter was big for offense that topped 4,000 yards, averaging 41 points. Had 45 tackles, six for loss. Honorable mention all-state. All-conference.

Carter Grabowski, Kaneland, senior, running back: Had 174 carries for 1,232 yards, 18 TDs. Caught 16 passes for 240 yards, two TDs. Honorable mention all-state. All-conference.

Connor Griffin, Oswego East, senior, offensive line: Two-year starter had 28 pancake blocks to lead attack that averaged 300 yards a game. All-conference.

Michael Harris, Marmion, senior, offensive line: A force on Cadets’ line, allowing no sacks. All-conference.

Dominic Klimpke, Aurora Christian, senior, wide receiver: Caught 48 passes for 766 yards, 11 TDs. All-conference.

Teddy Manikas, Oswego, senior, wide receiver: Caught 52 passes for 778 yards, five TDs. Had 1,079 all-purpose yards, including 98-yard punt return for TD. All-conference.

JT Padron, St. Charles North, senior, quarterback: Completed 59% of passes (163 of 276) for 2,313 yards, 25 TDs, five interceptions. All-conference.

Darrion Thurman, South Elgin, senior, running back: Had 141 carries for 1,279 yards, nine TDs. Caught 11 passes for 192 yards, two TDs. All-conference.

West Aurora’s Mason Atkins (2) throws a pass against Belleville East during a Class 8A first-round playoff game in Aurora on Saturday, Nov. 1, 2025. (Sean King / The Beacon-News)

Second Team Defense

Brady Alstott, Kaneland, senior, defensive back: Had 83 tackles, five for loss, one sack, seven pass breakups, two interceptions. All-conference.

Jack Coates, Jacobs, sophomore, linebacker: Had 122 tackles, seven for loss, five sacks, one interception. All-conference.

Luke Gardner, Batavia, sophomore, defensive back: Had 92 tackles, seven for loss, two interceptions, seven passes defended, two forced fumbles. All conference.

Quinten Jackson Jr., Oswego, junior, defensive back: Had 51 tackles, two for loss, four interceptions, four passes defended.

Nick Michalek, Sandwich, senior, defensive back: Two-way starter had 68 tackles. At running back, had 169 carries for 1,348 yards, 12 TDs, his third straight season topping 1,000 yards. All-conference.

Rogan O’Neil, Kaneland, junior, linebacker: Had 70 tackles, 12 for loss, two sacks. All-conference.

Ethan Pilip, Oswego, junior, defensive end: Had 63 tackles, 20 1/2 for loss, 5 /12 sacks and one interception, making impact after being promoted due to injury.

Andrew Shaw, Oswego, senior, defensive line: Had 45 tackles, five for loss, 1 1/2 sacks anchoring defensive front.

Declan Smith, St. Charles North, senior, defensive line: Had 54 tackles, 15 for loss, one interception, one forced fumble, one fumble recovery. All-conference.

Lucas Tenbrock, St. Charles North, senior, punter/kicker: Averaged 43 yards a punt, made 42 of 42 extra-point kicks, 5 of 6 field-goal attempts, converted six onside kicks. Honorable mention all-state. All-conference. Committed to Iowa State.

Dillon Viscogliosi, Yorkville, junior, linebacker: Had team-high 88 tackles, five for loss, one sack, one interception.

Kellen Younie, West Aurora, senior, linebacker: Had 63 tackles. Conference’s defensive player of the year.

Batavia’s Luke Gardner (24) looks to wrap up Glenbard North’s Donato Gatses (22) in the first quarter of a Class 7A state quarterfinal game in Batavia on Saturday, Nov. 15, 2025. (H. Rick Bamman / The Beacon-News)

Honorable Mention

Landon Arnold, Burlington Central, senior, quarterback.
Bryce Baxa, Yorkville, sophomore, defensive line.
Cooper Beaty, Plano, sophomore, linebacker.
Jack Beetham, Yorkville, senior, quarterback.
Jalen Carter, Kaneland, senior, athlete.
Jalen Callaway, Aurora Christian, sophomore, running back.
Brodie Curry, Aurora Central Catholic, senior, linebacker.
Colin Ford, Waubonsie Valley, senior, tight end.
Jayden Garcia, West Aurora, senior, defensive back.
Braden Harms, St. Charles North, senior, wide receiver.
Drew Kleinhans, Oswego, junior, quarterback.
Bennett Konkey, Geneva, junior, wide receiver.
Charlie Larson, Metea Valley, junior, quarterback.
Cam Loghmani, Oswego, junior, linebacker.
Colin McEniry, Marmion, junior, wide receiver.
Stilian Pavlov, Waubonsie Valley, senior, offensive line.
Bryce Riley, West Aurora, junior, athlete.
Trey Seifrid, Aurora Central Catholic, senior, running back.
Vinnie Testa, Marmion, senior, linebacker.
Lesroy Tittle, West Aurora, senior, wide receiver.
William Tracy, Waubonsie Valley, senior, linebacker.
Dane Turner, Geneva, senior, defensive back.

https://www.chicagotribune.com/2025/12/12/introducing-2025-beacon-news-courier-news-football-all-area-team/ 

Wall Street Eyes Lithium As Battery Storage Demand Poised To Spark New Upcycle

Tyler Durden
Fri, 12/12/2025 – 14:45

https://www.zerohedge.com/commodities/wall-street-eyes-lithium-battery-storage-demand-poised-spark-new-upcycle 

Food packaging company Teinnovations has donated $360,000 in personal protective equipment to the city of Aurora.

The large supply of equipment like medical masks and gloves will be used by the city of Aurora for its winter warming shelter and emergency response efforts, with some also being distributed to area nonprofits.

At a short ceremony on Thursday at Teinnovations’ global headquarters at 700 N. Commerce St. in Aurora, Mayor John Laesch said he was grateful for the company’s support.

Not only is the donation going to “go a long way,” Laesch said, but it also comes at a “critical time” since it is flu season. People will effectively be living together at the city’s new warming center, and this equipment will help people protect themselves, he said.

The city’s temporary overnight warming center opens at 712 S. River St. when overnight temperatures dip below 32 degrees or during wind chill advisories, city officials said.

Aurora’s Emergency Management Agency will keep much of the donated stock, which will help the agency respond quicker in case another pandemic like COVID-19 were to hit, according to Laesch. A city press release said some of the donated equipment will also be distributed through local nonprofits like Hesed House, the homeless shelter in Aurora.

Teinnovations doesn’t make personal protective equipment, but it had the stock to donate because the company helped hospitals get that equipment during the COVID-19 pandemic, company founder and Executive Vice President Daniel Tein said at Thursday’s ceremony.

Food packaging company Teinnovations has donated $360,000 in personal protective equipment, seen here, to the city of Aurora. (R. Christian Smith/The Beacon-News)

Hospitals were having a difficult time getting the equipment they needed, but Teinnovations had the ability to source, acquire and supply it, so the company did, he said.

But, then the pandemic ended, and the company still had some of that stock, according to Tein. He said the company is now happy it has some of that left over so it could make the donation to the city.

Teinnovations was founded in 2001 and specializes in food science and packaging. What Tein’s company does is help others keep their food tasting good and being good for people while keeping it all natural by removing things like chemicals, he said on Thursday.

Teinnovations founder and Executive Vice President Daniel Tein opens a box to take out some medical masks for Aurora officials to bring to the city’s warming center on Dec. 11, 2025. The company has donated $360,000 in personal protective equipment to the city of Aurora. (R. Christian Smith/The Beacon-News)

The company’s website says it works with businesses of all sizes, from start-ups to Fortune 500 companies.

Aurora has been Teinnovations’ home for the past two and a half years, and it has been a business-friendly city, Tein said at Thursday’s ceremony.

“It’s a great place to have our company continue to grow,” he said.

rsmith@chicagotribune.com

https://www.chicagotribune.com/2025/12/12/local-food-packaging-company-teinnovations-donates-360000-in-personal-protective-equipment-to-aurora/ 

Por SALVATORE LAPORTA

NÁPOLES, Italia (AP) — Por fin, la reivindicación está al alcance de un compositor ganador del Oscar que buscaba demostrar que era tan capaz de dar vida a los grandes teatros de Italia como a las películas crudas de Hollywood.

El viernes por la noche, el Teatro San Carlo de Nápoles presentará la única ópera de Ennio Morricone, “Partenope”, tres décadas después de su composición. Está inspirada en la sirena mítica que se ahogó tras no lograr encantar a Ulises, su cuerpo llegó a la orilla y se convirtió en un asentamiento que creció durante milenios hasta convertirse en la ciudad costera de Nápoles.

Cuando Morricone escribió “Partenope” en 1995, ya era el creador mundialmente famoso del tema del Spaghetti Western “The Good, the Bad and the Ugly” (“El bueno, el malo y el feo”) y de bandas sonoras cautivadoras para películas épicas como “The Untouchables” y “Once Upon a Time in America”.

Ganó un Oscar por su trayectoria en 2007, pero sus composiciones nunca resonaron en los sagrados salones de las casas de ópera, vistas en su país natal como el escalón musical más elitista. Para su gran pesar, “Partenope” acumuló polvo durante décadas; Morricone murió sin verla representada.

“Al final, interpretó como una señal del destino el hecho de que no debutaría en el mundo de la ópera”, dijo Alessandro De Rosa, un colaborador cercano que coescribió la autobiografía de Morricone, en una entrevista. “Estoy seguro de que si estuviera vivo ahora, habría aceptado el desafío y habría dialogado con la orquesta y el director, incansablemente, como un niño”.

Sonidos napolitanos

La directora Vanessa Beecroft y el director de orquesta Riccardo Frizza tuvieron que encontrar su camino a través de la obra visionaria sin el beneficio de esas notas.

“Habría sido maravilloso poder hablar con Morricone sobre sus elecciones musicales… pero tuvimos que entenderlas a partir de lo que nos dejó e intentamos interpretarlas de la mejor manera”, dijo Frizza.

Por ejemplo, eligió no usar violines en esta orquesta, prefiriendo en su lugar flautas, arpas y trompas, que aparecen en la mitología griega, explicó Frizza.

“Entonces tienes los instrumentos modernos, muchos de percusión, con los sonidos napolitanos proporcionados por panderetas y putipu’”, añadió, refiriéndose a un tambor de fricción utilizado en la música folclórica local.

El Teatro San Carlo estaba lleno de expectación el jueves por la noche, mientras los napolitanos asistían a un ensayo abierto. Las entradas gratuitas se agotaron en pocas horas.

“Fue una espera tan larga, por eso estamos aquí hoy”, dijo Alfonso Ieneroso al entrar al teatro.

Leyenda local

La mítica Partenope es parte de la cultura de Nápoles, la tradición sugiere que su voz representa el espíritu perdurable de la ciudad. El asentamiento griego original fue nombrado en su honor. Se la representa en monumentos como la Fontana della Sirena, una fuente que se ha convertido en uno de los símbolos de la ciudad. Los niños pequeños a lo largo del Golfo de Nápoles, viviendo bajo la sombra del Monte Vesubio, aprenden la leyenda de Partenope de sus padres.

Y al igual que la ópera de Morricone, Nápoles misma pasó décadas deprimida y pasada por alto, pero está disfrutando de un resurgimiento: la ONU reconoció a sus pizzeros como un patrimonio cultural inmaterial de la humanidad; apareció en listas de medios extranjeros de destinos imprescindibles; las novelas napolitanas de Elena Ferrante fueron aclamadas como bestsellers que se convirtieron en una serie de HBO; y su equipo de fútbol se llevó el trofeo de la liga nacional en 2023, por primera vez desde que Maradona jugó en los años 1980, y luego ganó nuevamente en mayo.

Nápoles también ha celebrado su 2.500 aniversario este año, y la ópera de Morricone marca la culminación de las festividades. La protagonista en su adaptación es una mujer que, después de que su esposo muere y se separa de su mejor amiga, rechaza el consuelo de ser transformada en una constelación distante. En cambio, pide a los dioses que le permitan extender sus alas a lo largo del golfo sobre el cual surgirá una ciudad inmortal.

La producción explora el vínculo entre la antigua leyenda y la identidad moderna de la ciudad, ya que dos sopranos encarnan a Partenope simultáneamente, reflejando su doble naturaleza como cuerpo y mito.

El tormento

Morricone originalmente compuso la ópera de un acto, sin cobrar, para acompañar un libreto de los autores Guido Barbieri y Sandro Cappelletto para un pequeño festival en Positano, justo al sur de Nápoles en la costa de Amalfi. Pero no llegó a realizarse, el festival quebró y Partenope fue archivada.

Hubo varios intentos de revivir su obra, incluido uno entre 1998 y 2000 con el Teatro Massimo de Palermo. Pero ese proyecto finalmente naufragó cuando no se pudo asegurar un director.

“En esos años, Morricone tenía el tormento de no ser aceptado como compositor de lo que él llamaba ‘música absoluta’, ya que se le identificaba con sus populares bandas sonoras de películas”, dijo Barbieri, uno de los autores del libreto, en una entrevista. Cappelletto dijo que, en una conversación con los dos autores en 2017, tres años antes de su muerte, Morricone parecía “en paz” con su carrera musical.

Partenope ha inspirado varias producciones a lo largo de los siglos, incluidas óperas de renombrados compositores como George Frideric Handel y Antonio Vivaldi en el siglo XVIII, y una película de 2024 del director ganador del Oscar Paolo Sorrentino. La obra de Morricone finalmente cobra vida para unirse a sus filas.

“Fue un gran placer escuchar la música de Morricone, la verdadera protagonista de esta ópera”, dijo Giovanni Capuano, un estudiante de cine de 26 años, después del ensayo del jueves. “Su espíritu ha regresado y nos ha encantado”.

___

Zampano reportó desde Roma.

___

Esta historia fue traducida del inglés por un editor de AP con la ayuda de una herramienta de inteligencia artificial generativa.

https://www.chicagotribune.com/2025/12/12/pera-perdida-de-ennio-morricone-debuta-en-npoles-tras-30-aos/ 

Chesterton

Liberty Bible Church: 824 North Calumet Ave. — Liberty Bible Church has Faithful Fitness for women on Mondays and Fridays. Faithful Fitness is an exercise class for women with two different classes offered — basic and modified. The cost is $2 per class. For more information, call 219-878-8700.

Truth North Training Stables: 927 N. County Road 150 West — True North Training Stables will have a “Deck the Stalls & Cookie Walk” from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Dec. 13. The event is $10 per family to decorate, cookies will be sold for $10 and $15 per box, and those in attendance can get a photo with Santa for $10. All proceeds go to the ministry, which seeks to bring hope, affirm, mentor, and bring purpose to others through their love of the Lord and use of horses. For more information, visit https://shorturl.at/qsLKj.

Crown Point

St. Matthias Roman Catholic Church: 101 W. Burrell Dr. — St. Matthias Roman Catholic Church will have Blessings of the Bambinelli at 4 p.m. Dec. 13, and 8 a.m. and 10:30 a.m. Dec. 14. The Blessing of the Bambinelli references the small figures of baby Jesus in Nativity scenes. Those with bambinellis are invited to bring them to Mass to receive a blessing.

Gary

Marquette Park United Methodist Church: 215 N. Grand Blvd. — All are welcome to worship at 11:15 a.m. Sundays at Marquette Park United Methodist Church. There will be refreshments afterward in the Fellowship Hall.

Griffith

Griffith First Christian Church: 202 W. Pine St. — Griffith First Christian Church will have a Christmas Eve celebration Dec. 24 at 5 p.m. and 6:30 p.m. The service will end with a candle lighting. To RSVP, visit https://shorturl.at/SSsmO.

Hammond

Faith United Church of Christ: 3030 175th St. — Faith United Church of Christ holds its worship service at 10 a.m. on Sundays, followed by fellowship and coffee.

Regeneration Church: 6851 New Hampshire Ave. — “Glory Live: A Night of Worship with Michael E. Gould” will take place at Regeneration Church from 5-7 p.m. Dec. 13. The event will feature live performances from the “Glory Live” album, community workshop, prayer and praise, special guest worship leaders and musicians and more. Tickets are on sale at Eventbrite: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/glory-live-a-night-of-worship-with-michael-e-gould-tickets-1963812514094.

Saint Joseph Catholic Church: 5304 Hohman Ave. — Saint Joseph Catholic Church will have “Donut Sunday” on the last Sunday of every month after the 9 a.m. Mass. Free coffee and donuts are provided at the church hall.

Merrillville

Diocese of Gary Office: 9292 Broadway — The Diocese will be accepting donations hats, scarves and gloves for the Caps for Kids campaign at its Merrillville office through January. The Diocese is assisting the Society of St. Vincent de Paul, District Council of Gary, to collect new or handmade hats, scarves and gloves. Checks can also be mailed to “Caps for Kids,” c/o St. Vincent de Paul, 2714 169th St., Hammond, IN 46323. For more information, call (219) 769-9292, ext. 88251.

Our Lady of Queen of Martyrs – South Campus: 8303 Taft St. — Join Bishop Robert J. McClory in celebrating Simbang Gabi at 4 p.m. on December 20. Simbang Gabi is a Filipino Christmas tradition of nine days of Masses during the Christmas season. A reception will follow the Mass.

Munster

Carmelite Banquet Hall: 1628 Ridge Road — St. Mary Catholic Church and St. Matthias Roman Catholic Church will have a Pause & Prepare advent retreat from 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. on Dec. 13. The cost of the retreat is $50 per person and includes lunch. For more information, call 219-663-2201.

Family Christian Center: 340 45th St — Family Christian Center will host an adaptation of the book “A Christmas Carol,” “Scrooge! A Bah-Humbug Musical” at 6 p.m. Dec. 13. To get tickets, visit https://shorturl.at/G8oAk.

St. Thomas More Church: 8501 Calumet Ave. — Monsignor Weis Council 10596 Knights of Columbus will hold its annual Christmas Tree and Wreath Sale beginning Nov. 28. Hours are 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. on Saturdays, and 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Sundays. Those who are interested can walk the tree lot to find their perfect tree, and treats are available for kids. Proceeds support local charities, and orders are cash or check only.

St. John

St. John the Evangelist: 10701 Olcott Ave. — St. John the Evangelist Parish will have its December Family Rosary for Life Prayer Service from 10 a.m. to 11 a.m. Dec. 13. After the prayer service, attendees are welcome to stay for coffee, juice, fellowship, and food.

To submit worship news, email cnance@post-trib.com.

https://www.chicagotribune.com/2025/12/12/worship-news-advent-retreat-and-blessings-of-the-bambinelli/ 

Por WILL GRAVES

PITTSBURGH (AP) — El linebacker T.J. Watt, se sometió a una cirugía para reparar un pulmón parcialmente colapsado y su condición para la visita de los Steelers de Pittsburgh el lunes a los Dolphins de Miami es incierto.

J.J. Watt, el hermano mayor de T.J. Watt, publicó en X que T.J. se sometió a la cirugía el jueves y se esperaba que fuera dado de alta del hospital en algún momento del viernes.

El menor de los Watt fue hospitalizado el miércoles después de reportar lo que el club describió como “molestias” mientras era atendido por el personal médico de los Steelers en las instalaciones del equipo. J.J. Watt dijo que T.J. recibió un tratamiento de de punción seca en ese momento.

Watt, de 30 años, ha sido seleccionado siete veces para el Pro Bowl y fue el Jugador Defensivo del Año de la NFL en 2021. Esta temporada tiene siete capturas para los Steelers (7-6), quienes tienen una ventaja de un juego sobre Baltimore por el liderato de la División Norte de la Conferencia Norte con cuatro jornadas por disputar.

Históricamente, Pittsburgh ha tenido dificultades sin Watt en la alineación, especialmente en 2022 cuando los Steelers tuvieron un récord de 1-6 mientras se recuperaba de una lesión en el pectoral.

___

Deportes AP: https://apnews.com/hub/deportes

https://www.chicagotribune.com/2025/12/12/steelers-tj-watt-se-somete-a-ciruga-por-pulmn-parcialmente-colapsado-dice-su-hermano-j-j-watt/ 

Emmett Dowling watched older brother Blainey quarterback Mount Carmel to a state championship in 2022. He heard plenty of stories about their father, Jim, winning back-to-back state titles with the Caravan in 1989 and 1990.

Emmett always imagined himself in those shoes, continuing the family legacy and becoming a state champion. In the end, the reality was even better than he could have ever envisioned.

“It’s special,” Emmett said. “It’s amazing going undefeated with these guys. I’ve been dreaming about this since I was a little kid. It’s definitely going to be unforgettable.”

In his first season as the starting quarterback, Dowling — a senior — helped Mount Carmel win its fourth straight state title, this time in Class 8A after winning 7A the last three seasons.

Dowling dealt with the expectations that surround his last name, the weight of leading a team considered by many to be one of the most talented in school history and taking over the position from Jack Elliott, who put up huge numbers last season before heading off to Vanderbilt.

None of that rattled Dowling, the 2025 Daily Southtown Football Player of the Year.

Mount Carmel’s Emmett Dowling (7) scrambles past Oswego’s Conor Tully (40) during the Class 8A state championship game at Huskie Stadium in DeKalb on Wednesday, Dec. 3, 2025. (Vincent D. Johnson / Daily Southtown)

“There was a lot of pressure,” he said. “Going for four in a row and making history. But I was never overwhelmed by it. I knew I was built for it and this team was built for it.”

Before Mount Carmel’s 20-3 victory over Oswego in the Class 8A state championship game, Emmett talked to Blainey, who gave him some good advice.

“He just said, ‘Play your game. It’s not going to take a superhuman effort. Just your best,’” Dowling said. “So, I listened to that.”

Dowling’s best was certainly enough all season long. And while Mount Carmel coach Jordan Lynch spoke often in the preseason and the early going about how Dowling didn’t have to be Jack Elliott or put up huge stats, Dowling did anyway.

Mount Carmel’s Emmett Dowling (7) tries to elude Lincoln-Way East’s Justin Titus (0) and Chance Turner (93) during a Class 8A state quarterfinal game in Chicago on Saturday, Nov. 15, 2025. (Vincent D. Johnson / Daily Southtown)

The 6-foot, 190-pound Dowling completed 260 of 430 passes for 3,697 yards and 45 touchdowns. He ran 107 times for 491 yards and 11 more TDs.

His passing numbers ended up surpassing Elliott’s gaudy stats.

“Prove everyone wrong, that was my goal,” Dowling said. “At the end of the day, that means nothing. If you win, you win and if you lose, you’re a loser.

“We got the ring and that’s all that matters. People can’t really say anything now.”

Mount Carmel quarterback Emmett Dowling (7) throws the ball downfield against Loyola during a CCL/ESCC Blue game in Wilmette on Friday, Oct. 24, 2025. (Talia Sprague / Daily Southtown)

Dowling is certainly grateful to have played for coach Lynch, a former star quarterback at Mount Carmel and Northern Illinois who has consistently coached prolific offenses and successful quarterbacks.

“He’s the best coach in the country,” Dowling said of Lynch. “Me and him have been watching a lot of film. Morning lifts at 4:30 a.m., throwing it around on the field. It’s all because of him.”

That respect is certainly mutual. Lynch beams with pride when talking about his latest quarterback protege.

“Emmett has been unbelievable,” Lynch said. “He’s never rattled. He’s always composed. He had all this pressure on him and he’s handled it so smoothly.

Mount Carmel quarterback Emmett Dowling (7) hands the ball off to Nathan Samuels (8) during a CCL/ESCC Blue game in Wilmette on Friday, Oct. 24, 2025. (Talia Sprague / Daily Southtown)

“He’s come so far and he’s ended up putting up some numbers that are really mind-blowing.”

Dowling is certainly blessed with a wealth of talent around him. But he still had to make the throws. Junior receiver Quentin Burrell saw him be ready to make every play the Caravan needed.

“He’s a great player,” Burrell said of Dowling. “He’s gritty. Coming in after a three-peat, all the pressure’s on you. That’s hard. I think he stepped into the role and filled those shoes.

“Honestly, we played better this year than last year, so I’d say he definitely stepped up.”

Mount Carmel’s Emmett Dowling (7) scrambles out of the pocket and away from pressure against Brother Rice during a CCL/ESCC Blue game in Chicago on Friday, Oct. 3, 2025. (Vincent D. Johnson / Daily Southtown)

Dowling plans to play college football but does not know where yet. He has an offer from NCAA Division III Wisconsin-Whitewater.

As for his legacy at Mount Carmel, Dowling hopes people will think of him as “a tough kid.”

But that’s not the most important thing.

“I want to be remembered for how good our team was — 14-0,” he said. “We’re definitely in that conversation for the best team in Mount Carmel history.”

https://www.chicagotribune.com/2025/12/12/emmett-dowling-mount-carmel-2025-daily-southtown-football-player-of-the-year/ 

Nine players from state champs Mount Carmel and Brother Rice highlight first and second teams.

First Team Offense

Lucas Andresen, Lincoln-Way Central, senior, receiver/running back/tight end: Multidimensional star ran for 591 yards and 11 touchdowns, adding 36 catches for 577 yards and eight TDs. All-state.

Ahmad Buchanan, Richards, senior, running back: Ran for 1,418 yards and 28 TDs, adding two TD catches. Also contributed 63 tackles. All-state. Conference player of the year.

Quentin Burrell, Mount Carmel, junior, receiver: Hauled in 67 catches for 1,124 yards and 14 TDs for Class 8A champs. All-state. Conference offensive player of the year.

Emmett Dowling, Mount Carmel, senior, quarterback: Passed for 3,697 yards and 45 TDs. Ran for 491 yards and 11 TDs. Honorable mention all-state. Conference MVP.

Corey Laga, Lemont, junior, lineman: Division I recruit allowed just one sack. Honorable mention all-state.

Broden Mackert, Providence, junior, running back: Ran for 1,736 yards and 23 TDs for Class 5A runner-up. Honorable mention all-state. Conference offensive player of the year.

Jacob Palucki, Andrew, senior, lineman: Didn’t allow a sack. Paved way for prolific option attack. Committed to Toledo.

Dorian Patterson, Crete-Monee, senior, receiver: Finished with 55 catches for 853 yards and 12 TDs. Added three interceptions. Committed to New Mexico.

Rico Schrieber, Marist, senior, lineman: A consistent force up front for the RedHawks. All-state. Conference co-lineman of the year. Committed to Purdue.

Bryce Tencza, Providence, senior, lineman: Led the way for dynamic rushing attack. All-state. Conference co-lineman of the year. Committed to Lafayette.

Jonas Williams, Lincoln-Way East, senior, quarterback: Threw for 2,488 yards and 35 TDs. Broke state records for career passing yards and TDs. All-state. Conference offensive player of the year. Committed to USC.

Mount Carmel’s Quentin Burrell (4) gets past Loyola’s Rob Simmons (25) for a big gain against Loyola during a CCL/ESCC Blue game in Wilmette on Friday, Oct. 24, 2025. (Talia Sprague / Daily Southtown)

First Team Defense

Colton Benaitis, Lockport, senior, defensive back: Piled up 89 tackles, six for loss, eight pass breakups, two interceptions. All-state. Committed to Central Michigan.

Maximilian Carmicle, Hillcrest, senior, lineman: Contributed 61 tackles, 22 for loss, 10 sacks. Added three TD catches. Honorable mention all-state. Committed to Purdue.

Andrew Dawson, Oak Forest, senior, defensive back: Finished with 39 tackles, four for loss. Had five interceptions, returning three for TDs. Added seven TD catches on offense.

Roman Igwebuike, Mount Carmel, junior, linebacker: Contributed 111 tackles, nine for loss, 3 1/2 sacks. Also forced two fumbles.

Andre Labuda, Lockport, senior, linebacker: Piled up 119 tackles, eight for loss. Added three sacks, two interceptions, two forced fumbles. Honorable mention all-state.

Gage LaDere, Lincoln-Way East, senior, lineman: Finished with 53 tackles, five for loss, four sacks. Honorable mention all-state. Committed to Northwestern.

Owen Lynch, St. Rita, senior, linebacker: Piled up 87 tackles, 7 1/2 for loss, 1 1/2 sacks and two interceptions.

Darrell Mattison, Morgan Park, junior, defensive back: Finished with 47 tackles and five interceptions. Also a playmaking kick returner. All-state.

Kameron McGee, Brother Rice, sophomore, linebacker/lineman: Contributed 48 tackles, 17 for loss and 9 1/2 sacks for Class 7A champs. Recovered two fumbles.

Brayden Parks, Brother Rice, junior, lineman: Finished with 60 tackles, 12 1/2 for loss and 7 1/2 sacks. Forced two fumbles. Conference co-defensive player of the year.

Jaden Weaver, Sandburg, senior, lineman: Contributed 61 tackles, 18 for loss, six sacks. Honorable mention all-state.

Homewood-Flossmoor’s Myles Ellis (3) runs after making a catch against Lockport during a Southwest Valley Blue game in Lockport on Friday, Sept. 12, 2025. (Sean King / Daily Southtown)

First Team Specialists

Myles Ellis, Homewood-Flossmoor, senior, athlete/specialist: Had 66 catches for 783 yards and 12 TDs. Also served as defensive back, kick returner, punter and holder. Honorable mention all-state. Committed to North Dakota State.

Zach Hermanson, Lincoln-Way West, senior, kicker/punter: Made 11 field goals, including six from beyond 40 yards, with long of 52. Averaged 45 yards a punt. All-state.

Cory Les, St. Laurence, senior, athlete: Ran for 1,414 yards and 13 TDs, adding three TD passes and three TD catches. Contributed 60 tackles and three forced fumbles.

Providence’s Xavier Coleman (2) pulls in a catch and secures the ball for a TD against Oak Forest during a Class 5A state semifinal game in New Lenox on Saturday, Nov. 22, 2025. (Jeremy Toney / Daily Southtown)

Second Team Offense

Jayden Armstrong, Joliet Catholic, senior, receiver: Hauled in 39 catches for 623 yards and six TDs, adding four TD runs. All-state. Conference MVP.

Xavier Coleman, Providence, senior, receiver: Finished with 52 catches for 786 yards and six TDs. All-state. Committed to Western Illinois.

Derrin Couch, Crete-Monee, senior, quarterback: Threw for 2,044 yards and 32 TDs. All-state. Conference offensive player of the year.

Quinn Durkin, Sandburg, junior, receiver: Finished with 32 catches for 636 yards and 10 TDs, adding two TD runs.

Joe Farrell, Oak Forest, senior, lineman: Key blocker for multidimensional offense that averaged 36 points.

Kellen Gamble, Homewood-Flossmoor, senior, lineman: Anchor up front as offense averaged 29 points. Committed to Northern Illinois.

CJ Gray, Brother Rice, senior, quarterback: Passed for 1,710 yards and 23 TDs while running for 526 yards and 13 TDs. Committed to Army.

Tim Harkins, Mount Carmel, senior, lineman: Key blocker for offense that averaged 37 points.

Brandon Johnson Jr., St. Rita, junior, running back: Ran for 1,184 yards and 20 TDs for Class 7A runner-up.

Ethan Posey, Brother Rice, junior, lineman: Division I recruit helped Crusaders average 38 points.

Jayden Schlosser, Oak Lawn, junior, running back: Rushed for 758 yards and 14 TDs. Key blocker for dynamic option attack.

Oak Lawn’s Jayden Schlosser (44) breaks free for a long run against St. Laurence during a Class 6A first-round playoff game in Oak Lawn on Friday, Oct. 31, 2025. (Gary Middendorf / Daily Southtown)

Second Team Defense

Zion Carter, Shepard, senior, lineman: Finished with 49 tackles, 19 for loss, two sacks, four forced fumbles. Honorable mention all-state.

Nate Cole, Richards, senior, linebacker: Contributed 85 tackles, three for loss, three forced fumbles, two fumble recoveries.

Gavin Conjar, Mount Carmel, senior, defensive back: Finished with 65 tackles, nine for loss, three sacks, two interceptions.

Jackson Dybcio, Lemont, senior, linebacker: Piled up 101 tackles, 14 for loss, two forced fumbles. Added four TD runs. Honorable mention all-state.

Chase Markowicz, Lincoln-Way West, senior, defensive back: Finished with 30 tackles and 10 pass breakups. Added 250 yards receiving and three TDs. Committed to Illinois State.

Nolan Morrill, Lincoln-Way Central, senior, defensive back: Chalked up 60 tackles, three for loss, three interceptions, nine pass breakups. Conference defensive player of the year.

Gavin Neil, Marian Catholic, senior, lineman: Contributed 44 tackles, 14 for loss, six sacks, two forced fumbles. Honorable mention all-state. Committed to Boston College.

Charlie Palmer, Lincoln-Way East, junior, defensive back/linebacker: Finished with 95 tackles and two forced fumbles.

Sean Rice, St. Laurence, junior, linebacker: Piled up 138 tackles and five interceptions. Added four offensive TDs.

Derrick Sparkman, T.F. North, senior, linebacker: Contributed 103 tackles, 6 1/2 for loss, four sacks. Had four interceptions, returning two for TDs.

Parker Zasada, Reavis, senior, lineman: Finished with 52 tackles, 21 for loss, 4 1/2 sacks. Added 10 TD runs. Honorable mention all-state.

St. Laurence’s Sean Rice (3) returns an interception against Leo during a nonconference game at St. Xavier in Chicago on Saturday, Sept. 27, 2025. (Gary Middendorf / Daily Southtown)

Honorable Mention

Jacob Alexander, Lincoln-Way East, senior, defensive lineman.
Charlie Barkmeier, Brother Rice, senior, linebacker.
Antonio Benson Jr., Thornwood, senior, receiver.
Ryan Boston, Rich Township, senior, linebacker.
Daniel Chopp, Oak Forest, senior, quarterback.
Justin Cobbs, Lincoln-Way Central, senior, running back.
Israel Easley, St. Rita, senior, defensive lineman.
Noah Escobedo, Richards, senior, quarterback.
Omarrion Evans, Evergreen Park, senior, athlete.
Blake Garrigan, Providence, senior, defensive back.
Jaylin Green, Brother Rice, senior, running back.
Brayden Guzak, Andrew, senior, linebacker.
Demarion Hampton, Eisenhower, senior, quarterback.
Aiden Hennings, Lincoln-Way Central, senior, defensive lineman.
Dominic Infelise, Providence, senior, defensive lineman.
Reilly Kliros, Lincoln-Way West, senior, offensive lineman.
Blaise LaVista, Lincoln-Way East, senior, receiver.
Jonathan Lewis, Bremen, senior, linebacker.
Jayden Lucas, Hillcrest, senior, defensive back.
Camden Maniatis, Andrew, senior, quarterback.
William McMaster, Oak Forest, senior, running back.
Brendan Mecher, Lockport, senior, quarterback.
Chris Miller, Lockport, senior, running back.
Derrick Pomatto, Joliet Catholic, junior, linebacker.
Nasir Rankin, Morgan Park, senior, receiver.
Pierre Ray, Richards, sophomore, defensive back.
Aiden Rudman, Lemont, senior, running back.
Saul Ruiz, St. Rita, senior, kicker/punter.
Patrick Sammon, Lincoln-Way Central, senior, offensive lineman.
Vincent Smith, Sandburg, senior, defensive back.
Alex Soto, Oak Lawn, senior, running back.
Marshaun Thornton, Mount Carmel, sophomore, receiver.
Grant Tustin, Lincoln-Way West, senior, quarterback.
Matt Williams, St. Laurence, senior, defensive back/receiver.
Stephen Winkler, Mount Carmel, senior, linebacker/tight end.

https://www.chicagotribune.com/2025/12/12/introducing-2025-daily-southtown-football-all-area-team/ 

Tech Companies Should Curb ‘Sycophantic And Delusional’ AI Outputs, Attorneys General Say

Tyler Durden
Fri, 12/12/2025 – 14:05

https://www.zerohedge.com/ai/tech-companies-should-curb-sycophantic-and-delusional-ai-outputs-attorneys-general-say