Illini Club of Will County

BACK TO SCHOOL PICNIC

2008-07-19T14:44:00.007-05:00

A summer picnic has been scheduled for August 9th from 11 to 3pm at the Will County Forest Preserve Canal Access Park On Houbolt south of Joliet Junior College.

The area is believed to be alligator free. Kidding.

There should be some grills, and we will play some bags. BYOB (Bring your own bags) if there is enough interest.

This is a FREE POT LUCK STYLE EVENT. However, Club donations will not be turned away. --WE SIMPLY ASK THAT YOU CONTRIBUTE EITHER A FOOD ITEM, BEVERAGE ITEM, OR OTHER NECESSARY PICNIC MATERIAL (please coordinate with Mark)

AS ALWAYS PASS THE NEWS ALONG TO YOUR FELLOW ALUMS and...

GO Illini!!!

2008 Scholarship Dinner

2008-06-29T11:33:00.018-05:00

Illini Club of Will County President Mark Lichtenwalter is pleased to announce the Illini Club of Will County Scholarship Recipient for 2008.

ANNA MALINOWSKI
JOLIET CATHOLIC ACADEMY

Congratulations to Anna!

We are proud to be able to help Anna in her dream of attending the University of Illinois.

The Illini Club of Will County Scholarship is a $4,000 ($1,000 per year) award to a new student at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign campus. The student is selected based on an application process including a review of academic achievement, spirit essays, and interviews with the Board of Directors of the Club. Funds for the Scholarship are provided through the Club's fundraising efforts, as well as a 1/3 match by the University of Illinois Alumni Association.

Also Congratulations to William A. Francis (pictured with Anna), the recipient of our 2008 Alumni Achievement Award.

Bill, who works at the Law Firm of Joe Tryner, is on the School Foundation for Wilmington public schools and has served on the board for 9 of its 10 years. During that time, the Foundation has grown from the initial project of a $1000 scholarship, to assets of $250,000. Bill also writes a nonconventional column about local high school sports.

Along with his wife Rita, Bill is a member of the University's President's Council and the Chancellor's Circle. Bill has been on the Board of Directors of the College of ACES Alumni Association for two years. He is also a member of the Honor the Chief Society.

Bill, thank you for your service to the Community and to the University of Illinois.

Also thank you Ms. Jean Driscoll, our 2008 Keynote Speaker. Ms. Driscoll is an Olympian, Paralympian, author and advocate for persons with disabilities around the world.

Jean earned a B.A. in Speech Communication with honors from the University of Illinois in 1991. She went on to receive a M.S. in Rehabilitation Administration in 1993 from the same institution. In 1997, Jean was awarded an Honorary Doctorate Degree from the University of Rhode Island and in 2002, she received an Honorary Law Degree from the Massachusetts School of Law.

It was a great pleasure having Ms. Driscoll as our Keynote Speaker.

2007 Scholarship Winner

2007-06-07T23:05:00.000-05:00

Illini Club of Will County President Mark Lichtenwalter is pleased to announce the Illini Club of Will County Scholarship Recipient for 2007

KRISTA TUREY
CRETE MONEE HIGH SCHOOL

The Illini Club of Will County Scholarship is a $4,000 ($1,000 per year) award to a new student at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign campus. The student is selected based on an application process including a review of academic achievement, spirit essays, and interviews with the Board of Directors of the Club. Funds for the Scholarship are provided through the Club's fundraising efforts, as well as a 1/3 match by the University of Illinois Alumni Association.

Krista will be presented with the award during the Illini Club Scholarship Banquet, June 14, 2007, at the Patrick Haley Mansion. Illini Football Coach Ron Zook is this year's keynote speaker.

Also, Mr. Ed Dollinger of Edwards Jones Investments will receive the first annual Alumni Achievement Award.

The Alumni Achievement Award is presented to a University of Illinois alum with ties to Will County who has honored the University of Illinois through outstanding leadership in their professional career and in service to their community.

For reservations to the event, or more information, contact Club Treasurer Kathleen Kinsella at 815-846-2442.

Scholarship Dinner

2007-05-01T22:38:00.000-05:00

Tickets to the Illini Club of Will County's Scholarship Dinner are still available. The event is set for June 14, 2007 at the Patrick C Haley Mansion located at 17 S. Center Street, Joliet, IL. Contact the Club with an email or Ms. Kathleen Kinsella at (815) 846-2442 for more information.

Other news:
Congratulations to the following 13 freshman from Will County who received straight A's in their first semester at the University and who were recently honored at the Mothers Association Annual Banquet.

David Bradshaw, Cheryl Cwik, Zachary Futterer, Heather Hanks, Kaitlin Hooper, Christine Lange, Allyssa Perri, Ana Ristich, Jennifer Roemer, Ryan Rogowski, Amanda Shively, Denise Studer, and Casey White

Will County Alumni Achievement Award

2007-04-14T07:54:00.000-05:00

Illini Club of Will County President Mark Lichtenwalter is pleased to announce the recipient of the First Annual Will County Alumni Achievement Award:

MR. EDWARD DOLLINGER,
EDWARD JONES INVESTMENTS

The Alumni Achievement Award is presented to a University of Illinois alum with ties to Will County who has honored the University of Illinois through outstanding leadership in their professional career and in service to their community.

Mr. Dollinger will be presented with the award during the Illini Club Scholarship Banquet, June 14, 2007 at the Patrick Haley Mansion. Illini Football Coach Ron Zook is this year’s keynote speaker. The Scholarship Recipient is still being determined and will be announced shortly.

For reservations to the event, or more information, contact Club Treasurer Kathleen Kinsella or email the Club. To email Click HERE.

Illini Day at Wrigley Field

2007-04-03T17:58:00.000-05:00

Wrigley Field and the Chicago Cubs are hosting Illini Day, June 2nd, 2007. Doors open at 10 am. The Chicago Cubs take on the Atlanta Braves for a 12:05 p.m. game, and as a special treat, Head Football Coach Ron Zook will sing "Take Me Out to the Ballgame" during the seventh inning stretch.

Prior to the first pitch Illinois will host a pre-game celebration at John Barleycorn and Moe's Cantina in Wrigleyville.

Scholarship News.

2007-03-16T10:58:00.000-05:00

Where to begin?

Scholarship Applications: For those in coming Freshmen who have not received a Scholarship Application and are accepted to Illinois, please email us for more information. The Application Deadline is March 30, 2007.

Scholarship Dinner: Requests for Tickets are coming in. Get your tickets early!! Contact us if you have not received a flyer via email.

Ticket Contest: Whoever can sell the most tickets will receive some Champaign/Urbana gifts. Right now the gifts include only a Pizza from Papa Del's, but other Champaign/Urbana oriented gifts will be added soon.

2007 Scholarship Application Update

2007-02-08T22:19:00.000-06:00

Has it already been a year? Tempus fugit.

Due to interest by more than a few proactive applicants and to let anyone interested know, the distribution of the 2007 Illini Club of Will County’s Scholarship Applications will begin after February 16, 2007.

Expect future postings to keep everyone updated on the application mailing, contact info, and the all important deadline.

Fun Facts:
1) Will County had approx 500 students accepted to the U of I last March.
2) The Scholarship Committee reviewed approx 150 applications last year.
3) All four 2006 Scholarship Finalists were exceptional candidates.
4) Only one application utilized the colors Orange and Blue.
5) Contrary to an early post, the president of this club is not an elf.

2007-02-04T22:51:00.000-06:00

And we do!!

After much effort by the board, we have booked our speaker for this year's Scholarship Dinner...

Illinois Head Football Coach Ron Zook!!

This took a lot of effort on the part of everyone involved, so we hope you all come out and see the coach at this year's dinner---the date is scheduled for June 14, 2007, and the setting/ticket information will be announced later.

A definitive bio of Coach Zook can be found HERE.

Interesting to note that on Wednesday, Feb 7th at 7 am, viewers can log onto coachronzook.com to catch a rare glimpse of the Illini football offices in action on the NCAA Football National Letter of Intent Signing Day.

2007 SIGNING DAY SCHEDULE
7 a.m. -- "War Room" Blog (all day, leading up to press conference)
10 a.m. -- Live online chat with Illini Recruiting Coordinator Reggie Mitchell
11 a.m. -- Live video interviews with assistant coaches
Noon -- Live online chat with Illinois Head Coach Ron Zook
1 p.m. -- Live video interviews with assistant coaches
2 p.m. -- Live online chat with quarterback Juice Williams
3:00 p.m. -- Live radio show with assistant coaches and current players
3:30 p.m. -- Press Conference with Ron Zook (live audio and video available)

Questions can be submitted to each coach in advance beginning on Monday, Feb. 5.

2nd Annual General Meeting

2007-01-24T22:27:00.000-06:00

Join us on JANUARY 31, 2007 at 6:30 p.m.

GUEST SPEAKER: Lynn Chaney, Associate Director of Strategic Initiatives and Special Projects (a Will County Native), will be attending and providing a campus update, along with a Student Alumni Ambassador.

The goal of the Illini Club of Will County is to bring Illinois alumni and friends together and help maintain ties to our great University. The Club offers Illinois alumni and friends a variety of social, cultural, educational, service and business networking opportunities.

In 2006, we had a very successful Scholarship Program, awarding a four year, $1,000 per year scholarship to Kimberly Mason of Shorewood, and former Gov. Jim Edgar was kind enough to be our guest speaker. If you didn't make last year's program, plan to attend this year's in the Spring!

We were named NEW CLUB OF THE YEAR for 2006 by the Alumni Association!!! THIS YEAR WE WANT "CLUB OF THE YEAR!"

There are currently 16 Alumni Clubs in the State of Illinois and over 50 Alumni Clubs throughout the United States. Last year, Clubs provided over $60,000 in Scholarship Funds to Worthy Students.

The site of our meeting is The Joliet Columbian Club of Council #382. Please come out and join the fun. We don't have dues, but are happy to accept any donation you may wish to make! (You do not have to be a member of the Alumni Association to Attend)

Please join us for the Second Illini Club of Will County General Meeting:
When: WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 31, 2007 @ 6:30 p.m.
Where: Knights of Columbus Hall 100 S. 129th Infantry Dr., Joliet, IL 60435, (815) 725-0746

Chicago Area Engineering Alumni Reception

2007-01-06T14:20:00.000-06:00

Chicago Area Engineering Alumni Reception
Date: Mar 29, 2007
Time: 6:00-8:00 p.m.
Location: Chicago Marriott Oak Brook, 1401 W. 22nd Street, Oak Brook, IL 60523

Join fellow ENGINEERING AT ILLINOIS alumni for complimentary hors d'oeuvres and beverages at this casual, informal gathering in Oak Brook. Come and catch up with representatives and students from throughout the college. On-line Registration will be available February 1st through March 23rd at www.engr.uiuc.edu/alumni/chicago.

For more information about this event contact Angie Dimit, Associate Director of Development-Alumni Relations at adimit@uiuc.edu or 217/244-1610.

"The Life"

2006-12-21T19:51:00.000-06:00

"The Life"--Campus Life from UIAA's Student Alumni Ambassadors
Hello Alumni Club members! My name is Nicole Alexander, and I am the Vice President of Homecoming for the Student Alumni Ambassadors. SAA, in their mission to develop programs that promote a positive campus experience for current students and promote alumni-student relations, plans many aspects of the Illinois Homecoming experience from picking the theme to planning every aspect of programs that reach thousands of students and community members. I am incredibly proud to say that this year’s Homecoming was a great success with new programs, record attendance and great weather!

In Champaign-Urbana right now, finals week and cold weather have descended dramatically upon campus. Suddenly, the libraries are the most social locations on campus and open for twenty-four hours a day, the coffee houses have lines out the door and students are decked out in multiple layers to combat the below-freezing temperatures. I fear for my sanity as I try to learn a semester’s worth of material in a matter of days. When walking across the Quad, it’s easy for me to get caught up in a good song on my iPod or just daydream instead of paying attention to the icy conditions of the sidewalks. I’ve already fallen twice and keep myself from bursting out in laughter when I see other students do the same thing.

As first semester ends, I have to face something incredibly unnerving. I am going to graduate college in a matter of months and need to figure out what I am going to do when I enter the adult world. Soon, my friends and I will actually be trusted with real-world responsibility, be working or attending graduate schools across the country and somehow be deemed “adults.”

I can still remember my very first day as a wide-eyed freshman moving into Allen Hall. I was excited to be granted freedom from my parents and high school life and felt energized by all of the new people to meet. We identified each other by our high school, hometown and dorm room address. I made friends in classes, in my dorm and through different activities. Little did I know that in those first few weeks, I would meet some of my best friends who would go on to shape my college experience. Today, I see them applying for all sorts of fascinating opportunities in business, law, science and medicine, going off to interviews and trying to decide where the next phase of their life will begin. Although I remember the times we spent together, I have no idea how the last four years moved so quickly!

Despite the fast-approaching future, my roommates and I have decided to take the time to relish our senior years despite our crazy schedules. We made a pact to be collegiate as possible, meaning we go to every basketball game and football game decked out in an obscene amount of orange and face paint. We try to attend different concerts and plays and take every opportunity to eat free food. We take random trips after midnight, spend lots of time together and ignore our homework until absolutely necessary. Tomorrow we’ll be the responsible graduates armed with a great Illinois education at your work place. For now, we’re just going to be seniors.

My Illinois experience has given me absolutely amazing extracurricular, research and personal opportunities, and I am having a hard time imagining life without everyone I’ve met here. I just spent this past week traveling across the country for medical school interviews. Despite my interest in these schools, I couldn’t wait to come back “home” to Champaign-Urbana where I could spend all day talking about everything and nothing at all with the best people in the world.

With finals week and winter weather descending upon campus, I have one goal for the remainder of the semester: I want to be part of massive snowball fight on the Quad and build an awesome snow man. Despite all the pressures of the future coming at me, I’m still in college and have the right to be a little kid again.

ANNUAL MEETING

2006-12-15T11:30:00.000-06:00

Greetings! Are you interested in meeting and socializing with University of Illinois alumni who live in Will County!

TIME FOR OUR SECOND EVER ANNUAL MEETING

JANUARY 31, 2007
6:30 p.m.
To Review the Year and Plan for the Future

GUEST SPEAKER: Lynn Chaney, Associate Director of Strategic Initiatives and Special Projects (a Will County Native), will be attending and providing a campus update, along with a Student Alumni Ambassador.

The goal of the Illini Club of Will County is to bring Illinois alumni and friends together and help maintain ties to our great University. The Club offers Illinois alumni and friends a variety of social, cultural, educational, service and business networking opportunities.

In 2006, we had a very successful Scholarship Program, awarding a four year, $1,000 per year scholarship to Kimberly Mason of Shorewood, and former Gov. Jim Edgar was kind enough to be our guest speaker. If you didn’t make last year’s program, make sure to make plans to attend this year’s in the Spring!

There are currently 16 Alumni Clubs in the State of Illinois and over 50 Alumni Clubs throughout the United States. Last year, Clubs provided over $60,000 in Scholarship Funds to Worthy Students.

The site of our meeting is The Joliet Columbian Club of Council #382. Please come out and join the fun. We don’t have dues, but are happy to accept any donation you may wish to make! (You do not have to be a member of the Alumni Association to Attend)

Please join us for the Second Illini Club of Will County General Meeting:

WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 31, 2007
6:30
Knights of Columbus Hall
100 S. 129th Infantry Dr., Joliet, IL 60435,
(815) 725-0746

Warmest Illini regards,

Mark A. Lichtenwalter
BS ’92

Braggin' Rights Game

2006-12-13T21:50:00.000-06:00

TUESDAY DECEMBER 19th
Buffalo Wild Wings, Weber and Highpoint Rd.,

the Braggin' Rights Game...The Good Guys v. Missouri

7:30 we are going to start eaten' wings.

Tip off at 8, I believe.

No COVER Cost to Attend (BYOW "Buy your own wings) But donations towards the scholarship fund are always accepted, and we probably, maybe, possibly will have some giveaways!!!!

Come on out and join us for a wing-tastic good time.

Interesting Links posted for a limited time:
Person of the Year (I suspect that something is amiss.)
Elf Yourself (The elf looks vaguely familiar.)

Illini Basketball

2006-10-22T08:41:00.000-05:00

On Friday 10/27/2006 at 6:30 pm, the Fighting Illini Men's Basketball Orange & Blue Scrimmage Game will be held. The Illinois Athletics website mentions that tickets are still available for this annual intrasquad scrimmage. For general ticket questions or assistance with online ticket ordering, call: 217-333-3470 or 1-866-ILLINI-1.

To download the Fighting Illini Men's and Women's Basketball Schedules:
Men's 2006-07 Schedule: Click Here
Women's 2006-07 Schedule: Click Here

Additional Men's Basketball News:
Some single-game tickets will be available to the general public beginning Oct. 31. Those games include Nov. 19 vs. Georgia Southern, Nov. 21 vs. Savannah State, Dec. 17 vs. Belmont and Dec. 21 vs. Idaho State.

Tickets for the Dec. 9 United Center matchup between Illinois - Illinois-Chicago will be available beginning at Noon, Tuesday, Oct. 24, through Ticketmaster (312-559-1212). Tickets are $25/$35/$45 each.

Tickets for the Chicago Invitational Challenge at the Sears Centre in Hoffman Estates, Ill., are on sale through the Illinois ticket office until 3 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 25. After that, Illini fans can purchase tickets for the event through the Sears Centre Box Office, select AMCORE Bank outlets, by phone at 1-888-SEARS TIX, and online at the Sears Centre website. Ticket prices are $100 for floor seats, $90 for club level, $80 for lower bowl and $60 for upper bowl.

For ticket information, contact the UI Athletics Ticket Office in person at the Assembly Hall North Box Office, by phone at 217/333-3470, or online at fightingillini.com.

West Suburban Illini Club's Golf Outing

2006-10-05T21:34:00.000-05:00

Wolf Run Golf Course presents: Octoberfest Glow Golf

Join the West Suburban Illini Club at Wolf Run Golf Course for a fabulous fall evening of food, fun and Glow Golf

When: Saturday, October 21, 2006

Where: Wolf Run Golf Course
1700 Jericho Road in Aurora
http://www.wolfrungolf.net/

Time: 6:00 PM Food & Beverages featuring hearty Octoberfest fare.

Followed at dark by Glow Golf - 9 hole scramble, all holes are Par 3’s, tees, greens & hazards outlined with glowing markers and use glow-in-the-dark golf balls (provided).

Space is limited to 10 foursomes (40 golfers) first come, first serve - so send in your paid reservations early. Do not need a foursome to sign up, singles and couples are welcome.

Cost: $ 30.00 per person or $100.00 for a foursome (includes food, beverages & golf)

Contact Mike Waldbusser (waldbusser@comcast.net) or Roger Wolf at Wolf Run Golf Course (630-906-1402) for additional details.

New Club of the Year

2006-10-05T21:31:00.000-05:00

The Illini Club of Will County has been named the "New Club of the Year" by the University of Illinois Alumni Association.

The award will be given at this weekend's Annual Alumni Leadership Conference. Inaugural Illini Club Scholarship Winner Kimberly Mason will also be recognized by the Association at the Conference.

Thanks to all of you who have made this possible.

Here's to continued success.

Illini Club Member Candidate For Appellate Judge

2006-09-30T20:59:00.000-05:00

Judge Michael J. Powers, 1984 graduate of the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign and a member of the Illini Club of Will County, is the Republican nominee for an open seat on the Third District Appellate Court

A former litigator and prosecutor, Judge Michael J. Powers has served as Associate Judge in Will County since 2004.

Judge Powers is running for the seat currently held by retiring Justice Kent Slater (R). The Third Appellate Court consists of 21 counties, stretching from Will, Kankakee and Iroquois counties on the eastern border of Illinois, along the I-80 corridor to the counties of Rock Island, Mercer, Henderson and Hancock on the western border. The Court currently consists of four Democrats and three Republicans. The seat of the Third Appellate District is in Ottawa, located in LaSalle County.

Visit www.electjudgepowers.com for more information.

Although not a political organization (and therefore not officially endorsing any candidates) The Illini Club of Will County supports and wishes to further the great accomplishments of all fellow Illini and wishes Judge Powers good luck in the General Election this Fall. For the politically inclined, Judge Powers would no doubt appreciate the support of his fellow Illini this Fall. The Third District, made up of 21 counties, is a lot of ground to cover.

Monopoly Night

2006-09-30T20:56:00.000-05:00

THE ILLINOIS REAL ESTATE ALUMNI FORUM WOULD LIKE TO ANNOUNCE

ITS INAUGURAL MONOPOLY NIGHT

OFFICIAL"BANKER OF THE EVENING":

STEVE STRATTON

OF STAUBACH COMPANY

Monopoly Night will be held on Thursday October 5 th at the Mid Day Club from 6-9 PM

Limited seats and table sponsorship opportunities still available!

Check availability by signing up online at:

www.uire.org

(or call Mike Hoadley at 773 294 5868 for sponsorship information

Three in One

2006-08-27T16:01:00.000-05:00

Football season is upon us. For those not familiar with the three trophies series traditions, I included them below:

“Illibuck”(Ohio State—Since 1925) OSU Leads 52-20-2 “Illibuck” is—or was—a turtle, destined for long life, it was hoped. But the wear and tear of traveling between Champaign-Urbana and Columbus was too much, even for a hardy marine reptile. “Illibuck” died in the spring of 1927 and his successor is now a wooden replica. Members of two junior honorary societies, Bucket and Dipper of Ohio State and Sachem of Illinois, annually meet at halftime of the Fighting Illini-Buckeye game to smoke the peace pipe and present the “Illibuck” trophy to last year’s winning school. Ohio State has won the last four meetings, including a 41-0 win last season in Champaign.
“Cannon” (Purdue—Since 1943) Purdue Leads 25-23-2 The “Cannon,” more accurately known as the Purdue Cannon, made its first trip to Champaign-Urbana in 1905 when a group of Purdue students brought it to fire after a Boilermaker victory. Purdue won the game, 29-0, but the Cannon was never fired. Illinois student Quincy Hall found the Cannon hidden near the old Illinois Field. Hall and a group of Delta Upsilon brothers confiscated the Cannon and held it until 1943 when they donated it as a symbol of the Illinois-Purdue rivalry. The Cannon was last fired October 22, 1983, at halftime in Champaign. Tomahawk Service and Leadership honorary at Purdue and Illini Pride of Illinois maintain the trophy when the respective school has won it. Purdue has won the last three meetings, including a 42-9 win last season in West Lafayette.
“Tomahawk” (Northwestern—Since 1945) UI Leads 28-22-2 The story of the Illinois-Northwestern trophy dates back to 1945 when the staff members of the two student newspapers conceived the idea of a wooden Indian trophy, “Sweet Sioux.”In September, 1946, “Sweet Sioux” was stolen from a showcase at Northwestern. A Tomahawk Trophy was inaugurated in 1947 to replace the wooden Indian and has been used since. “Sweet Sioux” was found in 1948, but was discarded because of its bulk. Illinois reclaimed the Tomahawk Trophy with a 13-10 win in Evanston last fall.

2006 Football Schedule
09/02/06 - EASTERN ILLINOIS
09/09/06 - at Rutgers
09/16/06 - SYRACUSE
09/23/06 - IOWA
09/30/06 - at Michigan State
10/07/06 - INDIANA (Homecoming/Varsity 'I' Day)
10/14/06 - OHIO
10/21/06 - at Penn State
10/28/06 - at Wisconsin
11/04/06 - OHIO STATE
11/11/06 - PURDUE (Dad's Day/Senior Day)
11/18/06 - at Northwestern

Football Saturdays

2006-08-25T17:45:00.000-05:00

Enjoy Football Saturdays at the Alice Campbell Alumni Center

This fall, discover a new kind of Orange & Blue fun when we transform the Alice Campbell Alumni Center into ALUMNI CENTRAL for Fighting Illini Football Saturdays (for all home and away games).
Bring your family and meet up with Illinois friends in the festive and comfortable surroundings of your new home on campus.
We kick off the home opener on Saturday, Sept. 2, from 11 a.m. until game time at 6 p.m.
Watch Big Ten football action on wide-screen TVs in the Bresee Alumni Lounge
Enjoy free popcorn and other food & beverages available for purchase
Free parking in nearby campus lots
Stock up on Illini and Homecoming 2006 merchandise

ALUMNI CENTRAL is the place to be this fall!
Alice Campbell Alumni Center
601 S. Lincoln Ave. Urbana

Questions? Watch http://www.uiaa.org/urbana for game schedule and hours of operation for ALUMNI CENTRAL. Or call our Alumni Service Center at 800/355-2586.

Illini Day at Six Flags Great America

2006-08-21T11:46:00.000-05:00

Join us for a fun-filled family day on Sunday, Sept. 3, at Six Flags Great America and Hurricane Harbor from 10 a.m.-8 p.m. Enjoy the amenities of two parks for one very low price!

Admission tickets are $28 per person. (Children 3 and under are FREE.)

To receive this exclusive discount, tickets must be ordered online using the following instructions:
1. Go to http://www.sixflags.com

2. In the upper right-hand corner of the Web site, it reads "Enter Promo Code." Click there and type "Illini" and click the "Go" button.

3. Next, you are prompted to "PICK A PARK" from a drop-down menu box just below the map. Select the only park listed in Illinois. You will then see a new window that reads, "Illini Day Admission Ticket."

4. Continue following the on-screen instructions to place your order.

For more information, please contact UIAA Assistant Director Lori Frost at 217/333-9228 or lfrost2@uiuc.edu

Note: This discount only applies to online ticket purchases. Walk-ins are welcome, but will need to pay full price.

Logos, Shirts and Mugs

2006-07-26T23:23:00.000-05:00

We are trying out a couple of new logos, but we need your feedback. The image to the left is just one example. Please visit
www.cafepress.com/illiniclub to see the other examples and maybe purchase a t-shirt or mug.

All proceeds will go to the general fund/scholarship fund.

New Online Library Access for Alumni.

2006-07-14T07:53:00.000-05:00

Beginning July 1, 2006, Alumni Association members will have online access to more than 4,000 magazines, newspapers, periodicals, scientific and professional journals and trade publications. The database, ProQuest/ABN-INFORM Complete, includes current and archived issues in full text and/or abstract versions. In addition, users can perform basic and advanced queries such as subject and key word searches.

Although license restrictions prohibit alumni access to all of the data bases that the three UI libraries make available to the campus communities, the University Librarians and the Alumni Association staff are glad to provide this new benefit that will extend the reach of the University’s world-class libraries to UI alumni living in all 50 states and more than 125 countries of the world. Until now, these services have been available only to UI faculty, staff and students with a University net-id.

For more information on this service, please go to www.uiaa.org/proquest or for information about membership in the Alumni Association, contact Alumni Services at 800/355-2586 or alumni@uillinois.edu

LAS Alumni

2006-07-11T23:10:00.000-05:00

Join the LAS Alumni Association on Saturday, July 29th, for an thrilling evening of theater at the Krannert Center for the Performing Arts.

The night will begin with dinner on the stage of Foellinger Great Hall, and a discussion with James Berton Harris, producing director of Summer Studio Theatre Company. Following dinner, there will an exclusive behind-the-scenes tour including scenery, costume, and property construction shops. Closing the event will be Summer Studio Theatre Company's performance of Dead Guilty, a psychological thriller showing how love and loyalty square up.

To participate, please register on the LAS web site at your earliest convenience. If you have any questions, please contact Ginny Veeder at (217)333-3387 or (888)333-9644

FIRST ANNUAL GOLF OUTING

2006-07-08T07:53:00.000-05:00

On SEPTEMBER 15, 2006 at GREEN GARDEN COUNTRY CLUB

9511 West Manhattan-Monee Road
Frankfort, IL 60423
815/469-3350

Check in time is between 11:00-Noon
Modified Shotgun Start at Noon

$100 per golfer includes a light lunch and nice Dinner after the event, and we are working on door prizes.

Hole sponsorships are available at reasonable rates! Get the name of your business out to fellow Illini!

Any profit, as always, will go to the Club Expenses, primarily the Illini Club of Will County Scholarship Fund.

Sign up sheets will be out soon.

For more information, or to sponsor a hole, donate a door prize, or to just volunteer...

Contact the golf committee chairman Eric Hansen

Illini Day at Brookfield Zoo

2006-06-09T15:20:00.000-05:00

Bring yourself and the family to Brookfield Zoo for Illini Day.

June 24
9:30 a.m. – 5:30 p.m.
Enjoy all-day admission to the main zoo and the children's zoo, a private tour of the animal hospital (NOTE: Must be 8 or older, limited to the first 120 participants), free entry to the Hamill Family Play Zoo, picnic buffet from noon - 2 p.m. and complimentary parking. This is a rain-or-shine event.

Adults – $29
Children age 3-11 – $19
Children age 1-2 – $5
(For those with a Brookfield Zoo season pass – Adults: $19; Children age 3-11: $14)

Reservation deadline is June 14; no refunds after this date. Please indicate ages of children.

To register for the Zoo Event click HERE

Other Illini related events happening this month

Second Tuesdays Urbana College and Dept. Associations Tue, Jun 13, 2006 Elephant & Castle, 111 W. Adams St., Chicago, IL

Chicago Happy Hour HAAANg-Out by the Asian American Alumni Network UIC Events Thu, Jun 15, 2006 JOE'S SPORTS BAR , Chicago, IL

UIS Alumni SAGE Society Summer Party UIS Events Fri, Jun 16, 2006 Island Bay Yacht Club, Springfield, IL

Politics and Religion Policy Summit UIS Events Tue, Jun 20, 2006 UIS Public Affairs Center, Springfield, IL

A Tele-workshop: Taking Care of Business: Legal Issues In and Around Your Employment Agreement Alumni Career Center Events Wed, Jun 21, 2006 IL

Human Development Counseling Founding Faculty Emeriti Celebration UIS Events Wed, Jun 21, 2006 UIS Sangamon Auditorium Lobby in the Public Affairs Center, Springfield, IL

Annual Dinner Illinois Alumni Club Events Thu, Jun 22, 2006 Parthenon Restaurant, Greektown , Chicago, IL

The Total Interview Process Alumni Career Center Events Wed, Jun 28, 2006 UIAA Career Center, 200 S. Wacker Drive, Chicago, IL

Bruce Webber Bobblehead

2006-06-02T09:14:00.000-05:00

On August 8, 2006 the Schaumburg Flyers are having a Bruce Webber bobblehead giveaway as one of the promotions, also known as, Illini night.

They are trying to get the word out to the alumni in the area about the Illini night.

For every alumni club member who comes that night we will offer one of two options for the game. 1. Get a reserved seat ticket and a voucher for a hot dog, chips, and a drink for $12.50 or 2. A reserved seat ticket and a pre-game all-you-can-eat buffet in our picnic area for $21.50. Other things we have talk about for that night include trying to bring in an athletic department member whether its a staff member, coach, and/or player. We already tried to get Bruce Webber, but schedules conflicted. We are also trying to get some autographed memorabilia whether it be a jersey or a basketball. If you know somebody who might be willing to donate an item for auction please let me know. So, we want this to be a great Illini night and any suggestions about that night would be very welcomed.

Thanks for your help and if you have any questions you can contact me by email.

Get the word out and Go Illini!!!!!

Eric Wallor
wallor14@aol.com

Please contact Eric or the Illini Club of Will County for more information.

Music and Football

2006-05-27T07:42:00.000-05:00

The Orchestra Hall weekend is scheduled for November 18-19 with the concert at 8 pm on Sunday the 19th. The School of Music will he handling concert tickets and a pre-concert reception in Symphony Center is also in the planning stages. The Illinois / Northwestern football game will be on Saturday the 18th. A tent party prior to the game is being planned by the Chicago Illini Club with more details to come.

Interested in sending your child or the neighbor's kid(s) to Illinois Summer Youth Music (Grades 7 to 12). Click HERE for PDF or HERE for Link.

ILLINI NOW

2006-05-15T20:33:00.000-05:00

Email from the University

NOW you can buy Illinois football season tickets, watch Illini TELEVISION ADS, listen to Illini RADIO ADS and view informational football ticket BROCHURES on our Illini NOW page at www.fightingillini.com/illininow

On this page you will find an orange link that allows you to immediately buy SEASON TICKETS. Coach Zook's recruiting, the Memorial Stadium renovation project (the Illinois Renaissance) and an exciting schedule with seven great home games have provided momentum to our program. This is a great time to join the fun at Memorial Stadium! Our season ticket brochure has all the details.

In the group ticket brochure, you'll find information on how your company or community group can TAILGATE with the Illini and save money by purchasing single-game tickets in blocks. You will also learn about the new FAN EXPERIENCES that have been added for the 2006 season, many which are geared toward giving kids unforgettable Illini memories. Other FAN EXPERIENCES are geared toward businesses and present high-end opportunities for adults.

YOUNG ALUMNI (5 years or fewer past their UI graduate date) can receive $91 tickets in the east balcony.

Get your season and group tickets today!

The Illini NOW page is at www.fightingillini.com/illininow

University of Illinois Alumni Association
Building Relationships for Life
www.uiaa.org

Bill in U.S. House challenges NCAA rule

2006-05-09T13:02:00.000-05:00

From the News-Gazette
Monday, May 8, 2006
Bill in U.S. House challenges NCAA rule
Published Online May 5, 2006
By Christine Des Garennes

WASHINGTON: A House bill introduced Thursday would allow the University of Illinois to sue the NCAA and seek damages for lost revenue if barred from hosting a championship game.

The legislation proposes to limit the NCAA's ability to apply sanctions on colleges or universities because of team name, symbol, emblem or mascot, according to a news release issued by one of the bill's sponsors, U.S. Rep. Tim Johnson, R-Urbana.

Johnson introduced the bill with House Speaker Dennis Hastert, R-Yorkville.

The move comes six days after the NCAA Executive Committee announced the UI could not host postseason events unless it gets rid of Chief Illiniwek, an 80-year-old university symbol.

The NCAA last August issued the policy prohibiting postseason competition at colleges or universities with "hostile or abusive" racial, ethnic or national origin mascots or symbols. The UI was one of 18 schools included on the list of institutions with "hostile or abusive" mascots or symbols.

Throughout the appeals process, the UI has stated that it should resolve the issue itself, that the NCAA Executive Committee exceeded its authority when it decided American Indian imagery was a "core issue" and that the NCAA set policy without following its bylaws.

The federal legislation has been in the works for months. Hastert approached Johnson about it in December, said Phil Bloomer, Johnson's spokesperson.

In response to the NCAA announcement last Friday, Johnson's office has been fielding numerous calls from constituents, most of whom have said, "Do something. Please do something," Bloomer said.

Thus the "Protection of University Governance Act of 2006."

"We're not doing this for political mileage but because it's the right thing to do," Bloomer said. Johnson is seeking re-election in November.

In a statement issued Thursday, Johnson said the NCAA was established as a sports management association but has since "assumed the mantle of social arbiters. They need to go back to scheduling ballgames and leave the social engineering to others."?

UI administrators have not looked at the legislation yet, but university spokesman Tom Hardy said he expects the UI "will follow it with some interest, but we are not going to make any assumptions about what will happen or what could happen," he said.

"We've been served well by taking a deliberative approach since it (the policy) came up last August. There is no timetable. No decisions have been made on how to proceed at this point," Hardy said.

The pro-Chief camp was elated.

"We'll be reaching out to as many alumni as we practically can. The calls have already started," said Roger Huddleston with the Honor the Chief Society. He expects many UI alumni around the country will be willing to throw their support behind the issue because "it's a 50-state issue, not a Champaign County issue," he said.

"The Chief is not the issue, as much as I love the Chief. This is about right of self-determination," Huddleston added.

"I feel that's a red herring," said Bryan Alkemeyer of the institutional autonomy argument. "The real issue there is a racially offensive mascot/symbol on campus," said Alkemeyer, co-coordinator of the Progressive Resource/Action Cooperative.

Alkemeyer expects to begin a campaign to stop the legislation.

David Gill, the Clinton Democrat running against Johnson in November, issued a statement about the legislation through his press secretary Brian Amoah.

"I am unaware of the legislation proposed by Mr. Johnson; however, I do believe the citizens of the 15th District would appreciate it if Tim would put the same effort into drafting legislation to help deal with $3 a gallon gas, uninsured health care, bringing troops home from Iraq and other problems that plague the 15th," he said.

Original cosponsors of HR 5289, besides Hastert and Johnson, are Rep. Jerry Costello, D-Ill; Rep. Allen Boyd, D-Fla.; and Rep. Dan Boren, D-Okla.

The bill has not been assigned to a committee yet.

Successful Scholarship Dinner

2006-05-05T22:29:00.000-05:00

The 2006 Scholarship Dinner has come and gone, and I must add with great success. The Patrick Haley Mansion was the perfect setting for this inaugural event.

Pictured above is the Honorable Jim Edgar and Ms. Kimberly Mason with your Club Officers (from left to right: Jay North, Mark Grzeskowiak, Paul Kalafut, Kimberly Mason, Honorable Jim Edgar, Mark Lichtenwalter, Kathleen Kinsella, and Eric Hanson).

Thank you everyone in making this dinner special.

On Campus

2006-05-01T23:03:00.000-05:00

Baseball/Softball Promotions

2006 ILLINI BASEBALL PROMOTIONS AT ILLINOIS FIELD

Tuesday, May 2nd vs. Robert Morris • Two Dollar Tuesday
All tickets will be $2.

Friday, May 5th vs. Michigan • Hawaiian Friday Night
Everyone who wears Hawaiian gear will receive FREE admission to the ballpark. The night will include a hula hoop contest, Hawaiian music, and much more! The ceremonial first pitch will be thrown out by Coach Bruce Weber.

Saturday, May 6th vs. Michigan • Dog Day Afternoon
Bring your dog to the ball park and receive FREE admission for you and your four legged friend. Everyone who brings their dog to the ballpark will receive free dog treats! WPGU will be tailgating in the parking lot, handing out giveaways, and playing games.

Sunday, May 7th vs. Michigan • Senior Day
Festivities to honor the seniors who left their mark on the program.

2006 SOFTBALL PROMOTIONS AT EICHELBERGER FIELD

Saturday, May 6 • Northwestern • World's Largest Softball Tailgate/Girl Scout Day
Stock the coolers, get the grills ready, and come out to Eichelberger Field to create the World's Largest Softball Tailgate. Join us for a day of tailgating, games, music, and softball. There will be inflatable games and face painting at the Busey Kid's Zone, live music, and give-aways. Parking and admission are free!

Girl Scout Day - To register your troop contact Allison Berg at 217-244-0062.

Sunday, May 7 • Northwestern • Senior Day
Come recognize an outstanding senior class of Rachel Coriddi, Jenna Hall, and Laura Zobrist at their last game at Eichelberger Field.

Stadium Renovation

2006-04-30T22:21:00.000-05:00

For those of you who have not received this email from the University please read.

University of Illinois’ Memorial Stadium is about to undergo a major renovation, which will enable this football team to reach greater heights. This renovation will maintain the integrity of the stadium's history, while also providing new premium seating and an improved game atmosphere. The success of this project is vital to the growth of the Illini Football program.

I urge you to log on to the following link to learn more about the Illinois Renaissance
http://www.athletics.uiuc.edu/renaissance/flash/

Thanks and GO ILLINI!
Ron Zook
Head Football Coach

I am interest to hear your comments.

Our Four Scholarship Finalist

2006-04-30T21:45:00.000-05:00

Congratulations again to our scholarship finalists. The Illini Club of Will County is once again proud to announce that Kimberly Mason from Shorewood, a Senior at Minooka High School, is the 2006 Illini Club Scholarship Award Recipient.

Kimberly Mason

Matthew Ciciora

Victoria Coraglio

Kaitlin Hooper

Scholarship Awarded

2006-04-25T12:21:00.000-05:00

The Illini Club of Will County is proud to announce that Kimberly Mason from Shorewood, and a Senior at Minooka High School is the 2006 Illini Club Scholarship Award Recipient.

We would also like to acknowledge the other finalists: Matthew Ciciora from Mokena and Lincoln Way East High School; Victoria Coraglio from Naperville and Neuqua Valley High School and Kaitlin Hooper from Joliet and Joliet Catholic Academy.

Kimberly will be recognized, along with the other three finalists, at an Awards Banquet on May 4th at the Patrick C. Haley Mansion, 17 S. Center Street in Joliet, IL. Cocktail Reception starting at 6:00pm, followed by Dinner at 7:00pm. The Honorable Jim Edgar, former Governor of Illinois, is the guest speaker.

Tickets are still available – with a deadline for RSVP by Friday April 28.

If you would like to attend, please contact: Ms. Kathleen Kinsella via email or at 815-846-2442

Kimberly was selected from 165 applicants for the 2006 Scholarship Award, which is a four year scholarship of $1,000 per year that is awarded to an incoming University of Illinois Freshman from Will County. Applicants are measured in the areas of Academics and Honors, Activities and Community Service, Illini Spirit and Pride, and Initiative and Professionalism.

Your attendance would be appreciated and would help support the Will County Illini Club’s ability to continue to fund scholarships to Will County students in the years to come.

UPDATE: First Annual Scholarship Dinner

2006-03-29T21:07:00.000-06:00

Club Members, make your reservations soon. Check your email for the Event Flyer.

As previously announced, former Gov. Jim Edgar has graciously agreed to be the keynote speaker.

With approximately 150 applications submitted to the Scholarship Committee for review, turnout for our first year has exceeded expectations. From the applications, the Scholarship Committee will pick four finalists, who then will be interviewed by the club officers before the scholarship award recipient is chosen. The finalists and their guests will be invited to the awards dinner with the scholarship winner announced during the evening.

We would like to thank everyone involve this year, especially the Members of the Scholarship Committee and the Members of the Award Dinner Committee who have been and are continuing to work so hard to make this event a success.

ILLINI CLUB MEMBER HOSTS FUNDRAISER FOR LYMPHOMA SOCIETY

2006-03-27T22:14:00.000-06:00

Alissa Calomino, a member of the Illni Club of Will County, is hosting a fundraiser for the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society Friday, March 31st at 6:30 p.m. at Morgan's, 18700 Old LaGrange Road, Mokena, Il

All you can drink beer and wine for $20 for two hours.
Pool tournament ($10 buy in) and a few fun Auction items

Phone 217 898 1428

Scholarship Applications Due Today

2006-03-24T08:04:00.000-06:00

For anyone still considering applying for the Illini Club of Will County's Scholarship, today is the deadline. Please have your application emailed today or postmark with today's date.

Currently, response to the Scholarship has been great.

Scholarship Speaker Confirmed.

2006-03-17T14:00:00.000-06:00

The Office of Former Governor Jim Edgar has confirmed that he will be the featured speaker at the Illini Club of Will County's First Annual Scholarship Dinner, May 4th at the Patrick Haley Mansion in Joliet.

Thanks to all the officers who worked to make this happen, particularly Treasurer Kathleen Kinsella.

An announcement, regarding tickets for this event, will be posted in the next few weeks.

Illini Number 4 Seed

2006-03-13T22:59:00.000-06:00

Heading to San Diego, the Fighting Illini play a 13th Seeded Air Force. This First Round game starts at 6:25 pm (CST) on March 16th. For our bracket, second round action is on March 18th at 4:30 pm (CST) playing against the winner of the Washington-Utah St. game.

NCAA brackets can be downloaded HERE.
Also, at www.fightingillini.com, 2006 NCAA tournament notes can be found HERE.

Scholarship

2006-03-13T22:54:00.000-06:00

This week the Illini Club of Will County's Scholarship Applications were mailed out. With approx. 500 Will County high school students accepted to the U of I, we look forward to a good response.

Welcome Illini !!

2006-03-04T14:55:00.000-06:00

The Illini Club of Will County would like to welcome new, old, and future Illinois Alumni to this website.

Shortly, additional information will be available concerning our Scholarship Program, Club Events, and Illini News.

For anyone visiting the campus, please visit the University of Illinois website.

http://www.uiuc.edu/