SJS CLASS OF 2008

Sorry - I posted to the wrong blog year...

2012-01-21T06:26:00.000-08:00

Sorry for the mess up. I clicked on the 2011 instead of 2008 button and sent the post regarding Anne Ryan's father to the wrong class blog. I'm sure many of you may still know Mr. Caccippio, the Ryan's and their family so hopefully it will be helpful to those who do.

Enjoy the snow!

Anne Ryan's father passed

2012-01-21T06:22:00.000-08:00

I'm giving the old "SJS Class of 2008" blog a try to let families know the unfortunate news that Anne Ryan's father, George Caccippio, passed away Friday, Jan 20th. The TENTATIVE arrangements are - wake at Adams Winterfield on Tuesday evening with funeral mass at St. Joseph's Wednesday, 10am.

The Caccippio's have been life-long Downers Grove residents and cornerstones of the St. Joseph Church & School communities.

Dear Lord, please bless Mr. Caccippio, welcome him home and cradle his family in your peace. Amen

This Fall

2008-08-21T06:59:00.000-07:00

Hi everyone, I hope all our graduates are excited about the move to high school!

By now most of you have received a mailing from Marta Spiezio about the upcoming youth program for this school year and I wanted to encourage you to have your student take part . . . especially when considering the Theology of the Body series. This program gives meaning to the "rules" we as parents give our children about relationships and self respect.

I went to World Youth Day in Sydney this summer with 14 St. Joseph teens and saw this program in action there and in the kids own words, "It's amazing!". The teens were able to choose what they wanted to see with music, dancing, and many other speakers available and three nights in a row they wanted to go to the Theology of the Body talks. It truly touched them and they wanted more.

Our St. Joseph pilgrims weren't alone. Each night thousands upon thousands of other teens from around the world packed the venues and cheered on this attitude of respect, hope and love.

From an adults perspective, every one of the chaperones said they wish this "message" had been available when we were growing up. It is a beautiful understanding of why God made us as men and women and that He wants us to know great desire and endless love. But most importantly, the best way to get it is by giving others and most importantly ourselves, the highest level of respect first.

I found a website that gives you a brief video overview of the content www.tobforteens.com/video .

Marta is starting the Theology of the Body program with a girls night in October and a boys night in November and then a joint presentation in January with parents. If you're interested just send back your form and sign up for the youth programs, it's one fee for everything. Theology of the Body is just a part of what she has in store, but your child is not committed to anything more than they can handle. It's no different than signing them up for volleyball, golf, band or any other extra curricular activity. Only Marta won't suspend them if they can't make it :).

If you didn't get a form then call Marta at 630-964-0216 and she'll answer any questions you have and get you the form you need.

Have a great school year!

Kelly Aguayo

P.S. - I'm sorry for using this forum for a personal plug. I just witnessed such power and such hope in watching our youth receive this message that I wanted to share it with you and your children.

Helping the Biederman Family

2008-08-10T11:42:00.000-07:00

The following is an email from Cathie Dunn who is organizing help for the Biederman Family:

I hope this finds you well and enjoying the summer.

As you may know, Melanie Biederman has been diagnosed with ALS.

I spoke with Melanie and her family about providing meals for her family. At first they declined the offer, but now they would welcome & appreciate meals delivered for the family. Right now 3 children are living at home Dan Jr. 20?, Drew 17 & Clare 14.

I am sending this note to as many people that I think may know the family, but if you would also pass on the word I would appreciate it. Just give anyone interested my contact information.

We would like to deliver meals to the Biederman's on Tuesdays and Thursdays. They have stated no particular dislikes or food allergies. Anything at all is greatly appreciated. We can deliver anytime after 4pm and see how it goes if we need to change any procedures.

It is very beautiful and moving to see how everyone at St. Joe's puts their faith in to practice. We've seen it so many times in our close knit community.

I will simply put names on a calendar of Tuesdays and Thursday as I receive responses from volunteers.

I will be away beginning on the 9th and I will respond to people once school starts.

THANK YOU - God Bless You - Please keep Melanie in your prayers.

Cathie Dunn
515-9528
dunnfamilydg@comcast.net

More Prayers

2008-06-23T13:22:00.001-07:00

Praying the Rosary for Johnny, Janet, Melanie and all others that need it, will be at 8pm in the St. Joseph Church Chapel during Eucharist Adoration. As well the Rosary will be prayed Wednesday night at 8:45pm in the lower level of the Parish Center.

All are encouraged to come!

Miracles are happening all the time through prayer!

Johnny and Janet Update from Marilyn Kasal

2008-06-23T10:18:00.000-07:00

Hi All,
Just some quick updates that I was asked to share with everyone . . . Johnny Anderson was transferred from Loyola's Pediatric ICU to the Intermediate Monitored Pediatric Unit yesterday. The family wanted me to let everyone know that he is doing much better and is now able to communicate to the family. They thank you for your prayers.
I spoke with Janet Crosswhite as well who is recovering from a head injury and a fractured shoulder after a cycle collision which occurred a few days ago. She is in the 2 ICU at Loyola. She is feeling much better as well. She wanted me to thank everyone for their prayers.
Our prayers are being answered!

Marilyn Kasal

More prayers for Johnny Anderson

2008-06-20T18:48:00.000-07:00

For those who had not heard the details . . . Johnny Anderson, son of Joe and Margie Anderson, was hit by a car on Main Street Thursday afternoon. After being taken to Good Sam he was air lifted to Loyola's Pediatric Trauma Unit.

He is currently in a drug-induced coma and has sustained multiple injuries including a broken collar bone, severely bruised kidneys and liver, a punctured spleen and the most concerning at this time, two severely bruised lungs.

In the first 24 hours after injury the lungs won't show the trauma, but the next 48 hours after that are the most critical. With that in mind there will be two more opportunities for us to pray as a St. Joseph Church Community. After 5pm mass on Saturday 6/21 and after 5pm mass on Sunday 6/22 of this weekend.

We will also be praying for Janet Crosswhite, a mother of two children that both went to St. Joseph's and are now at DGN. She was in a bicycle accident, colliding with another cyclist in a forest preserve in Brookfield and is now at Loyola as well. Janet is in a coma but last night began turning her head in response to peoples voices.

There is so much to pray for. Please feel free to share this email with anyone you know that might want to attend or could simply pray for Johnny, Janet and their families.

Let's Storm Heaven!!!

Johnny Anderson prayer service tonight

2008-06-20T16:04:00.000-07:00

St. Joseph's is holding a prayer service tonight at 7pm for 5th grader Johnny Anderson who was hit by a car on Main Street yesterday. He is in critical condition at Loyola. For those of us that want to flood him with prayers as a Community please join us.

As a relative of the Anderson's put it:

"He will be monitored very closely in critical condition at Loyola, but the opinion at this time is that it's a miracle that he is in the position he is in. Keep him and all the Anderson's in your prayers."

Last Chance for YLC!!!

2008-06-03T14:47:00.000-07:00

There are several students who have told our Youth Minister Marta Spiezio that they wanted to go to YLC, but have not yet turned in their forms.

And for anyone else who's considering this awesome experience Marta says, "If you sign up, you will look back and be like, "Ya know, I'm glad I chose to go to YLC during the summer of '08" ~ so don't let the pressure to hang around DG get to you! If money is an issue for you please let me know. I don't want you to miss the FAB weekend because you can't get the $$'s together."

The forms and money need to be to Marta by 10am Thursday (6/5) morning in order to get the count in to the Diocese. You can even bring it late Wednesday night to the Parish Center or to Rosary.

Questions, call Marta at the Parish Center at 964-0216.

Extra White Sox tickets

2008-06-03T10:56:00.001-07:00

Are any parents and siblings interested in going to the Whtie Sox game? Siblings must be accompanied by a parent.

It is this Thursday, June 5th leaving St. Joseph Church parking lot at 4:30pm. The cost is $30 per person and includes transportation, tailgating, dinner and your ticket to the game. We have a block of 75 tickets and still have 20+ tickets available.

Contact Bill Jarecki:
- at his business in downtown Downers Grove, Gallery's Choice - 630-969-5660 - 1014 Curtiss
- via email at bjarecki@hotmail.com
- or call his home at 630-553-5304

It looks like a beautifull evening for a ball game!

The last week

2008-05-19T10:14:00.000-07:00

Let's get right down to business . . .

- We need two volunteers, one Tuesday and one Wednesday to watch the classrooms during lunch from 12:10 - 12:40. Please reply to this email if you are available!

- For VIP the 8th grade will no longer be wearing their Confirmation robes and mortar boards, but instead will be wearing jeans and a t-shirt from the high school they will be attending. They will need this for the Wednesday and Thursday performances.

- Tuesday, May 27th at 8:30am is the Cap and Gown Mass with the school. This is a beautiful service incorporating our graduates, their teachers and their schoolmates.

- We are in need of volunteers on Thursday, May 29th to decorate for the dinner dance. You can come any time between 1pm - 5pm to help. This is a small window of time to get the decorating done so the more volunteers we have the sooner we can all get home and prepare for the big night!

- White Sox game ticket order forms went home last week and are due back to Bill Jarecki tomorrow Tuesday, May 20th.

- A big thank you to Beth Harbauer and Marta Spiezio and all those who contributed their time or made food donations for the hot dog and taco lunches that the kids had over the past several weeks. And thanks to Mrs. Stasi who purchased graduation plates and napkins and the Class of 2008 wristbands you may have seen your student wearing since Thursday's lunch.

Best of all the kids had a great time and have been so polite and appreciative for everything they've recieved.

- One last note, in case you didn't notice it in the eMessenger. St. Joe' s is looking for volunteers to make dinners for Father Jerome and our new associate. Father gave up his cook shortly after arriving last year in order to save the parish money, so they are looking to help him out.

If you would be willing to share your family's meal by preparing a little extra and dropping it off a few times per year, Father Jerome and his new associate would be most grateful. If you are interested please contact Therese Lucas 630-493-0832 or pblucas3649@msn.com .

Someone also suggested sending over a menu from a local restaurant and letting Father Jerome, and soon Father Dennis actual choose what their meal is going to be.

- Thanks for all your help and support!!!

The Fab Four

White Sox Game

2008-05-13T17:37:00.000-07:00

Wednesday, May 14th the kids will be coming home with the permission slip/ticket request forms for the White Sox game on Thursday, June 5th.

There are nearly 40 students who have said they wish to go with another ten that we have not heard from. So please return the permission slips immediately so Bill Jarecki and Mark Grogan can get the tickets straightened away.

For parents who are interested in attending, one parent from each family may join now - simply add your name to the bottom of the permission form. If space remains available, we will send a separate email with additional ticket availability.

Take me out to the ball game!

PS - There will be no Pizza Lunch this Friday!!!

Graduation Mass, etc.

2008-05-12T13:20:00.000-07:00

- One quick request to start - the teachers need a parent to watch the students during the lunch hour this Friday, May 16th from 12:10 - 12:40. Please relpy to this email if you are able to help.

- The seating chart for the Saturday, May 31st Graduation Mass can be found at the bottom of the email.

The Liturgists are wondering if any families have Deacons or Priests that would like to participate in this mass. Please reply to this email ASAP if you have a family member that is interested.

WEST SIDE OF THE CHURCH

Cailin Aguayo
Bridget Bicek
Michael Binder
Kelly Bowe
Emily Brandenstein
Christie Chelman
Ian Correll

Kyle Crawford
Erinn Davis
Andrew Drennan
Peter Errichiello
Jessica Fields
Patrick Grogan
Katherine Harris

Joseph Hughes
Taylor Kasal
Ryan Drouse
Ansley McLeod
Brian Meier
Ray Miran
Greg Musil

Megan Provenzale
Austin Ruf
Jack Scanlon
Sean Spratt
Matthew Theisen
Worakamol Urramporn

EAST SIDE OF THE CHURCH

Alexander Baggio
Clare Biederman
Matthew Blanchard
Megan Bradley
Alexandra Cassata
Nicole Claus
Mary Cortesio

Peter Danchisin
Megan Donofrio
Brian Durkin
Martha Farrell
Brendon Gesior
Mark Harbauer
John Holecek

Katherine Jarecki
Timothy Kritzler
James McGinnis
Sean McMenamin
Maeve Meier
Brigid Morrison
Amy Perino

Victoria Przybyl
Erica Ryan
Charlotte Skala
Jeffrey Sweeney
Lindsey Tucker
Yolanda Wojdyla

- The Memory Boards keep coming in, please continue to drop them off at either the Morrison, Harris, Harbuaer or Aguayo homes. Thanks!

Sweatshirt Day

2008-05-10T08:46:00.000-07:00

We just found out that this Friday is "8th grade Sweatshirt Day". Each student can wear a sweatshirt from the high school they will be attending this fall. If you can find, buy or borrow the sweatshirt they need we will be taking group pictures as well.

10 Days and Counting!

Hot Dog Lunch volunteers

2008-05-09T08:15:00.000-07:00

Anybody want to join in the fun this Thursday, May 15th and help grill out with the kids?!

We are in need of two more volunteers from 11:15am to 1pm to help set up, grill and serve the hot dog lunch.

If you're able to break away and come hang out, just reply to this email.

First come, first (get to) serve!

Oh, and everybody please pray for a sunny day,

THANKS

Memory Boards

2008-05-06T19:44:00.000-07:00

The Memory Boards that have been turned in to date are fantastic! From very simple to very stylish. Hope you are all enjoying a chance to look back at the years your student has spent at St. Joseph's School. And hope you look forward to seeing and sharing these memories at the May 29th Graduation Dinner Dance.

For those that still need to drop off your boards there are a couple reminders.

- Please do your poster "Portrait" style or the tall way.

- You can drop your finished Memory Boards at any of the following hom es:

Kelly Aguayo
4811 Stonewall Avenue
630-964-2583
aguayodg@sbcglobal.net

Beth Harbauer
4730 Highland
630-241-0642
bharbauer@stjosephdg.org

Anne Harris
442 57th
630-852-7369
steveharris70@comcast.net

Colleen Morrison
6002 Middaugh
630-969-8957
colleentmorrison@msn.com

Please drop them off as soon as possible so we can add some finishing touches before the dance.

Thanks,

The Decoration Committee

For all 8th grade Mom's

2008-05-05T16:24:00.000-07:00

St. Joseph CCW invites you to a

Living Rosary

and

Wine & Cheese Evening

Wednesday, May 21st

7:30pm

Church and Fitzgerald Hall

Come share in the Rosary and then enjoy a relaxing evening with your friends

Please RSVP to Melanie Biederman biedfamily@yahoo.com

by May 10th

(Melanie will be departing for Rome on May 11th and won't be back till the day

of the event. So she would love to hear from you before she leaves)

RSVP's after May 11th can go to the Parish Center

Three Weeks to go!

2008-05-05T14:43:00.000-07:00

You'd never guess that all the events below could be squeezed in to three weeks, but here goes!

- This Wednesday, May 7th at 8:30am is the May Crowning ceremony. Students will need to be dressed in their dresses and suits for the event and will remain in these clothes throughout the remainder of the school day.

- Baby pictures were due today, Monday, May 5th. If you still need to send it in, please send to Melanie Biederman right away c/o Clare Biederman Rm. 102. These are being placed on a bulletin board for the final weeks of school so they need to be in for the board to be assembled.

- Great America permission slips are due this Friday, May 9th and can be sent back to Linda Provenzale c/o Megan Provenzale Rm. 102.

- The Hot Dog lunch for May 13th has been changed. The hot dog lunch will now be on Thursday May, 15th. If you have volunteered to donate food and this date is a problem please reply to this email so we can find an alternate volunteer.

We are also looking for additional volunteers to donate the following items. Please reply to this email if you are able to help:
(160) hot dogs - split between 4 parents - Oscar Mayer are BOGO at Jewel
(160) hot dog buns - split between 4 parents - these are $1 each at Jewel

Thanks to Beth and Marta who have put all of this together! The kids have really enjoyed the awesome food and the break from their regular routine.

- Tivoli with Mrs. Simpson on Wednesday, May 13th means you only have to make one lunch next week if you do special lunch and pizza lunch!!!

- Saturday May 17th - Sunday May 18th is the Discovery Retreat with St. Joseph's Youth Ministry. If you still wish to sign up contact Marta Spiezio at the Parish Center Office 630-964-0216.

- Mrs. Wick is still in need of pictures of the kids over the past nine years. You could send them in on a CD, email to eaw401@comcast.net or send in pictures to be scanned. Please put your name on every picture if you choose to send them in to be scanned. We don't want to lose anything!

ADDITIONAL DATES

Tuesday, May 27th @ 8:30am - Cap and Gown Mass with the school and the final day of 8th grade!

Wednesday, May 28th @ 8am - Great America

Thursday, May 29th @ 6:30pm to 10:30pm - Graduation Dinner Dance in the school hall

Saturday, May 31st @ 7pm - Graduation Mass

Thursday, June 5th - White Sox vs the KC Royals

SUMMARY of To Do's

- Need addtional food donations for Hot Dog lunch, please reply to this email if you can help.

- Send your baby pictures to Melanie Biederman

- Send general pictures to Mrs. Wick

Enjoy the beautiful weather!!!

The Fab Four

Events and Reminders

2008-04-22T12:43:00.000-07:00

- Wednesday, April 23rd @ 7:15pm in the School Hall is the Confirmation follow up meeting and general information meeting to discuss the remainder of the school year. This meeting is for parents and students.

- Tuesday, April 29th will be Taco Tuesday! This lunch will be followed two weeks later on Tuesday, May 13th with another Hot Dog Lunch. Just like last week, Marta and Beth Harbauer (with some help from Fr. Jerome and Mrs. Stasi) will handle the manpower for these two special lunches.

What we would still need assistance with are the extras. Could we get volunteers to supply the following items to the Parish Center by 11:30am the special lunch day or you can make arrangements to drop off at another time:

Taco Tuesday - April 29th:
(12) Capri Sun 10 packs - split between (3) parents
(70) Ice Cream Sandwiches - split between (3) parents
(3) large bags of Tortilla Chips
(3) jars of mild to medium salsa

Hot Dog Lunch - May 13th:
(12) Capri Sun 10 packs - split between (3) parents
(70) ice cream bars - split between (3) parents
(70) Individual bags of chips

Please reply to this email with the date and item you are able to help with.

- Great America permission slips will be going home with your child on Thursday, May 1st. You will need to return the form no later than Friday, May 9th to allow time to purchase tickets for the May 28th outing and plan the remainder of the trip.

- Baby pictures for the traditional baby picture board need to be to Melanie Biederman by Monday, May 5th. Please label your picture and send it via school mail c/o Clare Biederman Rm. 102.

- Wednesday, May 14th Mrs. Simpson will be taking the kids to the Tivoli Bowl for gym class. This will be an out of uniform day when the kids will be allowed to wear appropriate jeans, t-shirts and socks . . . maybe they could all wear their class t-shirts?

The cost of the trip includes pizza and drinks, but we are looking for (3) parents to bring three dozen treats each to the Tivoli at 11am that morning or to send it with your child to school. This could be brownies, cookies, etc. Please reply to this email if you are able to help.

- Saturday, May 17th - Sunday, May 18th St. Joseph Discovery Retreat 2008. Details to follow

- Finally Mrs. Wick is looking for pictures of the kids over the years. You could send them in a CD, email to eaw401@comcast.net, or send in pictures to the scanned. Please put your name on every picture ifyou choose to send them in to be scanned. We don't want to lose anything!

- Volunteer summary - we need help with:

Food for Taco Tuesday, April 29th

Food for Hot Dog Lunch Tuesday, May 13th

Food for Tivoli Wednesday, May 14th

THANKS FOR ALL YOUR HELP AND SUPPORT!!!

The Fab Four

Reminder

2008-04-15T05:15:00.000-07:00

Thanks to all who have responded regarding the White Sox vs Royals game on Thursday, June 5th leaving at 4pm from St. Joe's!

We are still looking for about 40 more student RSVP's. Please replay to this email with a Yes, No or Maybe and your students name. This will be a big help for those who are organizing this event.

Enjoy our spring weather!

The Fab Four

Confirmation, Great America, White Sox, etc.

2008-04-10T12:22:00.000-07:00

- Friday, April 11th our 8th graders will be dismissed at Noon.

Confirmadi and Sponsor are to be at St. Joseph's Church by 7pm. The service will begin at 7:30pm.

The Confirmation service will be followed by a reception in the Church Hall where you will have the opportunity to take photos with the Bishop and Fr. Jerome.

- Tuesday, April 15th our Youth Minister Marta Spiezio will be treating the 8th grade kids to a hot dog lunch with the help of Beth Harbauer. So don't pack a lunch for your 8th grader this Tax Day!

- The next Graduation Dinner Dance meeting will be at 7:30pm the night of Tuesday, April 15th. Mary Durkin will once again host the meeting at her home:
7213 Webster Street
Downers Grove, IL 60516
Any questions contact Mary at 630-971-9214 or dkn61@comcast.net

- A Meeting for Parents AND Students will be held on Wednesday, April 23rd @ 7:15pm in the School Hall. This is both a post Confirmation wrap up, as well as an opportunity to discuss the end of the year activities. This takes the place of the meeting originallyplanned for April 20th.

- Wednesday, May 7th @ 8:30am is the May Crowning Ceremony. Your students will need to be dressed in their dresses and suits for this event and will remain in these clothes throughout the remainder of the school day. This celebration is done with the 1st Communicants and is a beautiful tribute to our Blessed Mother.

- Tuesday, May 27th @ 8:30am will the students first of two graduation masses. This mass which is referred to as the Cap & Gown mass is held with the student body and has many special elements that will not be a part of the Saturday night mass. We encourage all parents and family to attend this very special mass.

- Wednesday, May 28th will be the Great America trip. We don't have the full details yet but the cost will be about $40 and they will be gone from early morning until late evening. Permission slips will be going home in the next week or so and will need to be returned right away. We cannot buy the tickets until we know how many will be attending. If finances are tight, please do not let this stop you from sending your child on this trip, we can make it work AND WE DON'T WANT ANYONE TO BE LEFT OUT :)

- Thursday, May 29th will be the Graduation Dinner Dance for parents and their 8th grader. Invitations will be in the mail soon.

- Saturday, May 31st will be the Graduation Mass @ 7pm . . . but thankfuly the fun won't be over just yet!

- Thursday, June 5th will be the White Sox game. Please RSVP to this email if your 8th grader wants to go to the game. We will be leaving about 4pm in hopes to get in 1 1/2 hours of tailgating, dinner, bean bag toss, etc. before the game. The cost will be around $30 which includes your transportation, ticket and dinner. We need to know how many students want to go so we know how many tickets we have left for parents. So PLEASE REPLY TO THIS EMAIL EITHER WAY SO WE KNOW THAT EVERYONE HAS GIVEN US THEIR ANSWER.

- Lastly could you please send a baby picture of your graduate to Melanie Biederman c/o Clare Biederman Rm. 102 for the traditional baby picture board.

God Bless all our Confirmandi

***

"You will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you;

and you will be my witnesses."

Acts 1:8

Co-Ed Volleyball, Confirmation, etc.

2008-04-02T08:45:00.000-07:00

OK PEOPLE! If you think there were a lot of emails last fall, just wait till these last 8 weeks. Yes EIGHT WEEKS! That is all that is left before your child spends their last school day at St. Joe's. We will try to keep the correspondence down to only the most important details, but that means it is even more important that you check your emails so you can be in the know.

- Co-Ed Volleyball starts this Friday. The 7th and 8th grade boys and girls will be playing volleyball the nights of April 4th, 18th and 25th. The exact times of the games should be ready Thursday and games will be played at 7pm and 8pm each night in the school gym. There is no fee for this, but they will have to turn in their permission slip in order to play. Hopefully all who are interested in participating have turned in their slips by today (Wednesday). If not please email Kelly Aguayo at aguayodg@sbcglobal.net and we will figure something out.

- Confirmation practice is Monday, April 7th at 7pm in the church. If possible the sponsor should attend with the Confirmandi.

- Half Day for your Confirmandi! Mrs. Stasi has offered to dismiss the 8th grade students at Noon on April 11th to give them time to prepare for the big night and visit with family and friends who may be joining you for this Blessed event.

- Confirmation is Friday, April 11th at 7:30pm. Confirmandi and sponsors should be at the church by 7pm.

- Wednesday, April 23rd meeting with parents and 8th grade students at 7:15pm in the School Hall. This meeting will serve multiple purposes.
1. If you have finished your Memory Boards by this night, please feel free to bring them along. This will save you a drop off at a later date.
2. Post Confirmation Meeting with Marta Spiezio
3. Informational meeting about the remainder of events to round out your childs final month at St. Joe's.

If you have any questions about anything in this email or any future correspondence, simply respond to this email and we'll get back to you ASAP.

Happy Spring!

The Fab Four

??? about the Memory Boards

2008-03-17T12:23:00.001-07:00

Just want to clarify some details about the Memory Boards. We would like them to be done in the "portrait" position or the tall way.

And don't worry about placing good photos or memorabilia on the boards. You will be able to take them home with you the evening of the Dinner Dance.

Using a tip from Mrs. DeBruler and the kids science projects. If you want to easily remove anything you have placed on the board use rubber cement when adhereing your items.

If there are any more questions please feel free to reply to this email or call Kelly Aguayo @ 630-964-2583.

Thanks and Happy Easter!

Memory Boards

2008-03-14T18:14:00.000-07:00

At tonights Confirmation Retreat your child will be receiving a poster board with instructions attached. Just in case the instructions don't make it home you can find them below. And please be sure you place your students name somewhere on the poster :

The poster board you've received is a project of memories for your family. Your Memory Board can be done by the parents, the 8th grader or the entire family . . . whatever you think will be best.

What we ask is that you fill this poster with whatever reminds you of your child's elementary school life, whether they grew up at St. Joe's or joined some time in the past nine years. Simply fill it with memories from their K-8 years.

This could be pictures, words, phrases, artwork, favorite things . . . whatever brings you and your child joy!

Our final request is that you do not place anything on the piece(s) of Kelly Green construction paper already placed on the board.

When you have finished you can drop your poster off at any of the homes listed below. Just email or call to set up a time for delivery:

Kelly Aguayo
4811 Stonewall Avenue
630-964-2583
aguayodg@sbcglobal.net

Beth Harbauer
4730 Highland
630-241-0642
bharbauer@stjosephdg.org

Anne Harris
442 57th
630-852-7369
steveharris70@comcast.net

Colleen Morrison
6002 Middaugh
630-969-8957
colleenmorrison@msn.com

PLEASE DELIVER BY MAY 1ST

This will allow us time to finish the Memory Boards.

Thanks and have fun!

The Dinner Dance Decoration Committee

Service Opportunities

2008-02-15T07:37:00.000-08:00

- 8th Graders can earn one hour of community service by volunteering at PADS. Every Monday evening in March the PADS shelter (in the lower level of the church directly accross from DG Library) needs help prepping 90 lunches for the following day. It's simple, it is a great service to the homeless in our community and can be done with their friends if they sign up together. Contact our Youth Minister Marta Spiezio speez222@yahoo.com with the dates your student would be available to help.

Service hours can also be earned by baking three dozen cookies, brownies or treats that can be dropped off at the PADS shelter between 4:45pm and 6:30pm on any of the nights. Contact the cooridnators of the night your student would be available to bake.

March 3rd - Julie Correll @ 630-963-6922
March 10th - Chick Briner @ 630-960-5072
March 17th - Julie Correll @ 630-963-6922
March 24th - Pat Lord @ 630-321-1002
March 31st - Joanne Norgle @ 630-971-3789

- 8th Graders can also earn 30 minutes of service to St. Joseph's by helping after Masses the weekend of Feb. 23rd - 24th. Carson's is offering their Spring Community Day this coming March 1st. The students will be selling coupon books after masses for $5 each. These books offer deep discounts if you shop at Carson's on March 1st and the entire $5 charge goes to St. Joseph School!

This is a great way to shop for spring and summer clothes, Easter outfits, Graduation clothes for the whole family, 1st Communion suits and dresses, etc. Some discounts are even good on sale merchandise.

We will need 2-5 students and 1-2 parents at each Mass.

There will be sign-up sheets in the classrooms next week for the students. If you decide to help out as well, be sure and have your child place their name, and your name, on the classroom sign-up sheet.

Thanks for all your help!!!

The Fab Four

P.S. - The kids had a great time on Valnetine's Day . . . and boy have we got some great dancers in this class! The students all looked so wonderful and handled themselves beautifully through a very busy but fun-filled day. You should be very proud of all of them!

Thank You!

2008-02-07T11:18:00.000-08:00

- A big thank you to Scott and Roseanne Musil for an amazing day at Alpine Valley! After patiently waiting out the rain (thanks Roman Gesior for the radar reports from your Blackbarry) the group was blessed with a mountain virtually reserved for St. Joe's. Only a handful of other skiers were on the slopes so there was plenty of room to ski . . . and wipe out! Thanks for a great day of great memories.

- Another big thanks goes to Katy McLeod for a successful Cake Walk at this years Fun Fair. And thank you to everyone that brought in baked goods. We went through every last donation and even had to run out for some additional items to keep the fundraiser going. But Katy pulled it off and we had a very successful event!

- We are looking for a guestimate on the number of people attending the final outing of the year:

Thursday, June 5th @7:11pm

White Sox vs Kansas City Royals

The cost will be approximately $30/person and includes ticket, transportation and dinner at a pre-game tailgate. We should be leaving from St. Joe's parking lot around 4:30pm to have time to tailgate.

This game is open to 8th grade students and any parents who would like to chaperone. Please email Bill Jarecki bjarecki1@hotmail.com and let him know the number of tickets you will need. We need to buy the tickets ASAP to assure seating as a group.

- Finally, don't forget Graduation Pictures are February 14th with the Valentine's Day Dance to follow. They'll need to wear their dress clothes and bring their cap & gown.

Thanks!

The Fab Four

Saturday, February 9th

2008-02-05T08:50:00.000-08:00

St. Joseph Parish invites all Married Couples to a presentation by Dr. James Healy on "Conflict Resolution & The Art of Forgiveness".

There are four communication traps that couples get into that can take their relationship into a downward spiral. Dr. Healy will discuss the ways we get into these traps, and thankfully the ways we can get out.

Come enjoy this light-hearted and humorous approach that has helped so many couples across the country reinvigorate their relationships.

"Conflict Resolution & The Art of Forgiveness"

Saturday, February 9th

7-9pm in the Church Hall

social to follow presentation

For questions or to register, contact Deacon Frank Kozar @ 630-964-0216.

THE SKI TRIP IS ON!!!

2008-02-03T12:26:00.000-08:00

The 8th Grade Ski Trip to Alpine Valley is on for Monday, February 4th. All students need to be in the church parking lot by 7:45am Monday morning.

Don't forget the following:
- If the students know their height/weight it would help to fit equipment
- Bring quarters for the lockers
- Dry clothing to change in to after skiing

Get ready for a great time!

The Fab Four

On a personal note, I would like to apologize to anyone who was confused, frustrated or upset by the rumors circulating in the past 24 hours. In an attempt to do something good I created a mess by polling parents and students on Saturday about what to do if the weather is bad for the ski trip. I guess the bottom line is no matter the weather, as long as their together, the kids will have fun.

Most of all I want to apologize to Scott and Roseanne Musil who have put so much time and energy in to making this event special for our kids. I should have spoken to them first.

With Sincere Regrets

Kelly Aguayo

Fun Fair, Final Basketball games, etc.

2008-01-28T06:07:00.000-08:00

Yes, as you can tell by the number of emails, this is a busy time of year for the school and especially the 8th grade! So let's get right to it . . .

- This Saturday, February 2nd please do not forget to drop off baked goods for the Cake Walk. You can drop your items at the school hall Friday after school until 8pm and any time after 8:30am Saturday morning. We prefer all items be dropped off before the Fun Fair starts at 11am but if you bring it during the event we can still use it. Any questions please contact Katy McLeod katymcleod@comcast.net.
Best of all, it's our final fundraiser of the year!

- We have not received any responses yet regarding decorating for the final home basketball games this year. The first game is this weekend and they'll continue each weekend for the following three weeks.
The Fab Four has decided to start the decorating off by making basketballs with the name and number of all the 8th grade boys and girls basketball players. We will place these on the walls of the gym and they will stay up for the entire home game stretch.
We will still need two parents from each team to arrive early bringing streamers and a couple dozen green and white balloons to decorate the gym (you can submit your receipts for these items to our class treasurer Maribeth Ruf for reimbursement). Please do not make these helium balloons! If the balloons get loose and float to the ceiling they may end up setting off the motion detectors at some later date causing an unnecessary late night trip to school.
These decoations mean so much to the kids and it's a great way to commemorate their final basketball game at St. Joseph's School.

Please reply to this email with the team and date that you would be willing to help with:
Boys B1 - Feb. 3rd, 3:30pm
Girls B - Feb. 9th, 9am
Boys A - Feb. 16th, 11am
Boys B2 - Feb. 16th 12pm
Girls A - Feb. 23rd, 10am

- We are in need of Market Day lunch volunteers. Just a reminder that this is a 30 minute job from 12:10 - 12:40 monitoring the students from the hallway outside the classrooms. The following dates need to be covered:

Tuesday, February 12th
Tuesday, April 15th
Tuesday, May 13th

- Thursday, February 14th is Graduation Picture Day and the Valentine's Dance that Mrs. Schmitt and the kids have been working so hard on.
The morning will be the class Cap and Gown picture as well as individual pictures in Cap and Gown and in their dress clothes. The afternoon will be their Valentine's Day party and if they haven't told you already, ask your student who they've been paired with and what dances they've been learning for this big event.
Boys tend to be in suits and girls in dresses or dress clothes. Please remember that school appropriate guidelines are to be considered when shopping for their outfits.

- In an upcoming email we will be asking who has interest in attending the White Sox game outing this spring. Group tickets go on sale in a week or two and the sooner we purchase tickets, the better our seats will be.
The event will be open to students and as many parent chaperone's as are interested. So if you know you want to go you can reply to this email with a count from your family, or if you'd like to think about it we'll be sending another email out soon.

- One last reminder in case you forgot to mark this earlier:

Graduation Dinner Dance

Thursday, May 29th

6:30pm

St. Joseph School Hall

Graduation Mass

Saturday, May 31st

7:00pm

St. Joseph Church

Have a great week!

The Fab Four

Desperate for 2 Volunteers this Friday

2008-01-28T05:11:00.000-08:00

I apologize for the late notice! The 8th grade classes will be doing a service project in the classrooms with their buddies this Friday, Feb. 1st, from 12-2pm. We are desperate for 2 adults to supervise the activity for Mr. Murphy's room. All materials will be provided - only supervision is required. The kids will be making baby blankets for unwed mothers.

Please feel free to respond to my email address lspratt@ameritech.net or call me at 630-322-9844.

Thank You!

Lisa Spratt

Class Gift to St. Joseph School

2008-01-25T06:33:00.000-08:00

We have exciting news! Instead of waiting until the end of the school year to present the Class Gift to St. Joe's we will be giving it to the school this weekend for use during Catholic Schools week! An official acknowledgement of the gift will happen on Monday during school but thankfully the benefits of the gift will be enjoyed right away!

The Class of 2008 Gift to St. Joseph's School is

a new portable PA System!

This system comes as a 28 lb. one piece hard-case unit with a handle on top, that separates in to two speakers and the base unit. It comes with a wired microphone and we also purchased a wireless microphone so the speaker can walk throughout the gym with the mic if needed.

We have now received the OK to play music during warm ups and between periods at the basketball games and this system does that too. With the help of an MP3 player loaded with approved music it can project any mix of music needed.

This unit is small but powerful and will see it's first use during the many 8th grade home basketball games this weekend! And by giving the gift early it will allow our 8th graders to see their gift in action and benefit from it themselves as well!

This PA System will also be able to be used on Sunday during the Shoot Out and during any other school events needing a sound system . . . homecoming pep rally, Field Day (because it's portable), class parties in the gym, the Parish Block Party, etc.

Any questions, concerns or comments, please let us know,

The Fab Four

Ski Trip Forms, Dinner Dance, etc.

2008-01-18T13:14:00.000-08:00

- The 8th Grade Ski Trip reservation forms and waivers should be coming home in your students backpack today. Included is a trip overview as well as several reservation forms, permission slips and liability waivers. All forms and money need to be returned to Roseanne Musil c/o Greg Musil Rm. 102 by Monday, January 28th.

Please be sure, if your child needs a snowboarding lesson, that you mark that on the reservation and get it in as soon as possible. The snowboard lessons (not the ski lessons) are by advanced reservation only.

You will be happy to see that the final price is considerably less than our worst case estimate, due in part to the great success we've had in fundraising this year. Thanks to all your hard work we were able to pay for most of the transportation cost through the class earnings!

- Tuesday, January 22nd will be the first meeting for the 8th Grade Dinner Dance. The meeting will be at Mary Durkin's home, 7213 Webster Street @ 7:30pm. Anyone interested in helping out is welcome. Those who already signed up in August are Melanie Biederman, Julie Correll, Clare Cortesio, Michelle Drennan, Anne Harris, Lea Krouse, Melanie McGinnis, Katy McLeod, Pat Meier, Colleen Morrison and Saitong Urramporn. We will be setting up committees and discussing initial plans.

- Saturday, Feb. 2nd is Fun Fair and the 8th Grade Cake Walk. We need 6 parents to volunteer one hour each between 10am - 3pm to supervise the students as they run the cake walk for the attendees. Pat Meier and Jeanne Holecek have already volunteered so we only need 4 more volunteers. Please email Katy McLeod at katymcleod@comcast.net or call her at 630-435-9005 if you can help.

We also need everyone to bring a bakery item to school Saturday morning to be used in the cake walk. Please drop off by 11am in the school hall.

- We are looking for parents who can decorate for the final home basketball games next month. If you can believe it they start as early as February 3rd! If we could get two parents from each team to arrive early bringing a couple dozen green and white balloons, some streamers and maybe paper basketballs with each players name and number on it to place on the walls that would be great! And it would mean so much to the athletes!

Please reply to this email with the team and date that you would be willing to help with. Here are the dates:
Boys B1 - Feb. 3rd, 3:30pm
Girls B - Feb. 9th, 9am
Boys A - Feb. 16th, 11am
Boys B2 - Feb. 16th 12pm
Girls A - Feb. 23rd, 10am

We'd also appreciate it if you would all note ALL these dates in your calendars and encourage your students to come and support their classmates at every game . . . and parents are certainly welcome too!

- This is the first of two extensive emails detailing the upcoming events for the start of this second, and very fun-filled, semester. We know this is alot to take in, but we have many wonderful traditions here at St. Joe's and we look forward to sharing these memorable events with your children. And given the scope of field trips, dances, picture days, and more it has been decided to pass on a trip to Springfield this year. Please know this is not a reflection on your students but simply an issue of how to orchestrate an already event-filled year end.

You can look forward to email #2 coming to your inbox next week!

The Fab Four

Date for 8th Grade Ski Trip

2008-01-15T09:47:00.001-08:00

Just a quick note to let you know that this year's 8th Grade Ski Trip will be Monday, February 4th. We will be in touch by the end of the week with the final details.

Pray for snow!

The Fab Four

RSVP

2008-01-05T08:10:00.000-08:00

We've heard from just over half the class regarding this year's ski trip . . . thanks so much! And many are probably still away on vacation, but please know that whether or not your child intends to go on the ski trip we need to hear from everyone so we can work out the costs, etc. for those attending. This will also save us from bugging you with a phone call.

Please email back with the following:
STUDENTS NAME
WILL OR WILL NOT BE ATTENDING
HAVE THEIR OWN EQUIPMENT OR NEED TO RENT EQUIPMENT

Thanks and Happy New Year!

The Fab Four

8th Grade Class Ski Trip

2008-01-01T14:31:00.000-08:00

Happy New Year!

Just a quick request regarding this year's 8th Grade Ski Trip. If you could please respond to this email with your child's name and whether or not they will be attending it will be a big help in ironing out the details of this event.

The trip will take place on a school day and all students are invited whether they intend to ski or not. The non-skiers hang out in the lodge while the rest are on the slopes. And while we are sure that cost may be a factor in your decision, we unfortunately cannot give you a clear cut answer until we know how many students will be attending. Worst case scenario shouldn't exceed $42 for skiers who have their own equipment or $62 for skiers who need equipment rentals and $20 for bus only.

This does not include money for food but we hope to provide snacks and drinks on the bus and you may be able to send food with your child depending upon the location.

So if you could please reply to this emial ASAP with the following:
CHILD'S NAME
WILL or WILL NOT ATTEND
DOES or DOES NOT HAVE THEIR OWN EQUIPMENT

Thanks so much and have a Blessed New Year!

The Fab Four

Christmas Party

2007-12-15T12:29:00.000-08:00

- This years Christmas Party will be Friday, December 21st from 10am - 11:00am. Short but hopefully sweet.

Just as we did last year the kids will be exchanging White Elephant gifts. This means each 8th grader needs to bring a unisex gift that you did not buy. Use something that you have laying around your home (a tshirt you never used, a bag of Oreos, an old radio). Have your student wrap it up and bring it to school on Friday. Reply to this email with any questions you may have.

- 1st Semester Service Forms are due this Wednesday, December 19th.

- A reminder for the Christmas program. All 8th grade boys are to wear black pants and white shirts and the girls need black pants and black tops . . . with sparkle if you'd like.

See everyone Thursday night.

Have a Blessed Christmas!

The Fab Four

We need 54!

2007-12-13T09:03:00.000-08:00

No guys, this isn't an email about Brian Urlacher . . . we just forgot to clarify that we would need 54 of whatever giveaway item you might have to offer. This is something we wanted to do for each student.

Thanks!

Have any giveaways for the kids?

2007-12-13T08:30:00.001-08:00

Merry Christmas everybody! We are wondering if anyone might have something we could give to the students as a Christmas treat/gift at their party on Friday December 21st.

If you have something laying around at your home/workplace / promotional items / freebies / discounts / etc. we would love to make up something fun to surprise the kids with.

Any ideas please reply to this email.

Thanks and Merry Christmas!

The Fab Four

Prayers for Michael Rensch

2007-12-07T07:23:00.000-08:00

Most of you may already know, but Mrs. Rensch's son Michael is having health issues and doctors can't seem to pin point the problem. So at a time when it seems there is nothing that can be done, we would like to offer a way for our students and all of us to lift up Michael, his Mom and Dad and his brother/sister to be.

This Wednesday, December 12th at 8:30pm, we would like to invite all students, parents, Mr. Murphy, Mrs. Stasi and Sr. Dorothy to pray the Rosary for Michael in the lower level of the Parish Center.

This prayer group began over six years ago to ask the Blessed Mother's intervention for Jana Bendik a then DGN HS student. And now many years after her cancer has gone in to remission, the prayers continue for all who need them.

Please join us this Wednesday to lift up Michael, his family and his doctors to Our Lord through His Mother's merciful love.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

- Thanks to Roseanne Musil and Peggy Perino for putting together last Saturday's movie night. Your hard work and preparation made it a really fun night for all who attended. They enjoyed Tivoli popcorn while watching Unaccompanied Minors. And congratulations to Greg Musil "the Christmas Stocking" and Jessica Fields "Mrs. Christmas Tree" for winning DVD/Tivoli GC prize packages for showing their Christmas spirit!

- A Big Thank You to Therese Brandenstein, Marian Kritzler, Pat Meier and Mary Crawford for organizing this years Coat & Book Drive to benefit Corkery School! After weeks of collection, cleaning, sorting, bagging and boxing with the help of parents and students; they were able to deliver 110 coats and 20 boxes of books to the school yesterday morning the 6th. The group even had a chance to tour the school and visit Mrs. Kussman in her classroom. Way to go Class of 2008!

We'd also like to thank Maple Cleaners at 2265 Maple for donating the plastic bags to cover each coat. It really makes the presentation to the recipients extra special.

- A reminder to all parents whose students are attending the Gloria Dei Adult Day Care Center service project on Monday. The kids will be leaving school early to walk to Gloria Dei and will need to be picked up at 3pm. If you volunteered to help that day can you please email Kelly Aguayo at aguayodg@sbcglobal.net to verify your ability to help.

Have a Merry weekend!

The Fab Four

Scholarships for Catholic HS

2007-12-06T09:51:00.000-08:00

A new scholarship opportunity is available to students who will be attending a Catholic high school in the Diocese of Joliet.

The Kazma Family Foundation will again be offering a (4) year renewable scholarship to incoming freshman.

This needs based scholarship will be granted to 25 students.

Each Kazma scholar will receive $3000 a year in tuition assistance for four years. In addition, there will be incentive opportunities based on grades during the sophomore and junior years.

All 8th grade students can apply for this wonderful opportunity.

The application deadline is February 22, 2008.

Jane Lagger
Director of Education Foundation
Diocese of Joliet
402 South Independence Blvd.
Romeoville, IL 60446
815-834-4033

Just for the Women!

2007-12-03T15:13:00.000-08:00

WOMEN'S HOLIDAY DINNER

~CELEBRATING SISTER ROSEMARY RAFTER~

On Monday, December 10th @ 6:30pm a very special event will take place at St. Joseph Parish. Women of the parish will gather to honor our beloved Sr. Rosemary as she prepares to retire after giving twenty-five years of her life in service to our parish.

All women of the parish are invited and welcome ~ whether you have had the pleasure of knowing Sr. Rosemary for twenty-five years or you have recently joined our parish! Take advantage of this evening during the busy holiday season to relax and enjoy the company of other women. Call friends and send in your reservation today.

The evening will include: prayer, a reflection by Sr. Rosemary and a lovely holiday dinner. $20 per person will reserve your place. They must have reservations no later than December 5th for our caterer. If you would like to help with decorations, set-up or clean-up please contact Beth Harbauer, Marta Spiezio or Helen McAlpine at the Parish Center. We welcome any assistance!

Please RSVP by December 5th

Return through school mail or the the parish center

Checks made payable to St. Joseph Church

Name(s): _________________________

Phone #: _________________________

Amount Enclosed: $_________________

Upcoming dates and Fun Fair

2007-11-29T09:49:00.000-08:00

- DATE CHANGE*** The service project with the Gloria Dei Adult Day Care Center has been changed to Monday, December 10th. We will need 17 students to do a Christmas Craft with the participants. The group will leave St. Joseph's at 1:40pm and walk to Gloria Dei. Students can be picked up in front of Gloria Dei on Grant at 3pm. This will qualify as (1) community service hour.

- Katy McLeod has offered to Chair this year's Fun Fair Cake Walk fundraiser on Saturday, February 2nd from 12pm to 3pm. We are in need of 10 volunteer parents to help setup, work the event and clean up. Please email Katy at katymcleod@comcast.net if you are able to help out.

- The Corkery School Coat & Book Drive will be wrapping up this week. We have a great group for the delivery of the donations on Thursday, December 6th. This has already been a great experience for all those involved.

- Graduation Picture Day will be Thursday, February 14th! By that time your student will need to have his suit or her dress for graduation and their Cap & Gowns will be in hand. Pictures will be taken both in dress clothes and the Cap & Gown. As well they will be doing a class photo in the church on the altar wearing their Cap & Gown. It's a fun day for the students and this year they have the added bonus of their Valentine's Day Party/Dance in the afternoon.

REMINDERS:
- Saturday, Dec. 1st - Christmas Movie Night in the Church Basement
- Wednesday, Dec. 5th - Information Form for permanent church reconds is due.
- Saturday, Dec. 8th - Youth Mass
- Wednesday, Dec. 19th - First Semester Service Form due

Happy 1st Sunday of Advent!

The Fab Four

CONFIRMATION Reminders

2007-11-20T10:44:00.000-08:00

- Wednesday December 5th - Information Form for permanent church records is due. The form was included in your child's Confirmation Folder. They will need to have chosen their Confirmation name and Sponsor.

- Saturday, December 8th - Youth Mass whose Liturgy is done by St. Joseph's Youth Ministry. They have a great HS Youth Choir, along with Lectors and Eucharistic Ministers from St. Joe's high school students.

- Wednesday, December 19th - First semester Service Form due

- Friday, April 11th @ 7:30pm - The Scarament of Confirmation

Marta also wanted to invite any students interested in Rosary this Wednesday night. It should be a large group with many youth returning from college for the holiday break. This runs from 8:30pm to about 10pm.

Have a Happy, Healthy and Safe Thanksgiving,

The Fab Four

Coat/Book Drive, Movie Night and Gloria Dei

2007-11-17T16:45:00.000-08:00

- The Coat/Book Drive is up and running with donations rolling in. The students are collecting and sorting books along with parent volunteers. And the coat donations are coming in as well. Just a reminder that we are only looking for coat sizes 4-20 and please be sure they are in good wearable condition.

We are also looking for volunteers to drive the coats, books and kids down to Corkery School on St. Nicholas Day, Thursday, December 6th. Parents need to be to school by 8am and we will return by Noon. Please contact Therese Brandenstein theresepb@aol.com or Marian Kriztler m.kritzler@sbcglobal.net to volunteer, or if you have any questions.

- Don't forget to mark your kids calendars for Christmas Movie Night - Saturday, December 1st in Fitzgerald Hall. A flyer will be going home this week with more details.

- This Tuesday November 20th we are in need of a volunteer to watch the kids in their classrooms over lunch, from 12:10 to 12:40pm due to a play going on in the school hall that day. Please contact Kelly Aguayo aguayodg@sbcglobal.net if you're available.

- We are still in need of lunch volunteers for Market Day. Your help would be greatly appreciated:
Tuesday, December 4th
Tuesday, February 12th
Tuesday, April 15th
Tuesday, May 13th

- For over 15 years St. Joseph 8th grade students have volunteered their time each December at the Gloria Dei Adult Day Care Center on Main Street across from Downers Grove North HS. The students are asked to spend an hour or two with the seniors and do a craft. Chic, the coordinator from Gloria Dei says it is amazing what joy this brings the residents. 17 Students will have the opportunity to serve the seniors on the morning of Thursday, December 6th concurrently with the Corkery School delivery. Please encourage your student to take part in this meaningful Christmas Gift.

Confirmation will be Friday, April 11th at 7:30pm

May the Holy Spirit's Sacramental Grace

strengthen and perfect their souls

Service Opportunity and reminders

2007-11-05T10:35:00.000-08:00

- After school on Wednesday, November 14th the Friends in Faith Ministry of St. Joseph's Parish will be sending out a Thanksgiving bookmark to parishioners. Coordinator Rosemary Echevarria is looking for 12 students to help stuff envelopes for the mailing. This would take place in the parish center immediately after school and last approx. 1 1/2 hours and does qualify for service hours. There will be a sign up sheet sent around the classrooms this week so encourage your student to help out.

- We are in need of Market Day lunch volunteers. On the days when Market Day is being set up in the School Hall the students have to eat in their classrooms. One parent per day is needed to stand outside the classrooms from 12:10 - 12:40 and monitor the students. This coverage allows the teachers to still get their lunch break. If you sign up and cannot make your commitment, please find another parent to take your place.

Tuesday, December 4th
Tuesday, January 15th
Tuesday, February 12th
Tuesday, April 15th
Tuesday, May 13th

- A reminder that this Wednesday, November 7th all 8th grade students are invited to attend Rosary with the Youth Ministry in the lower level of the Parish Center from 8:30 - 9:45pm. We know there might be a conflict with the football banquet, but if things wrap up by 8:45pm it still wouldn't be too late to swing by and catch most of the evening!

- Does anyone have a portable DVD projector and screen that we could use for the Christmas movie night in Fitzgerald Hall on Saturday, December 1st? The Parish Office can't find the one that belongs in the hall.

Coat & Book Drive, Rosary and Movie Night

2007-10-25T19:43:00.000-07:00

The 8th Grade Annual Coat & Book Drive to benefit Corkery School, former school of Mrs. Staci, is ready to begin. These are families who greatly appreciate this every year. Accepting donations 11/1 - 12/1. The coats and books will be delivered by 8th grade students and parents on 12/6.

All 8th Grade students are invited to Pray the Rosary with St. Joseph's Youth Ministry Wednesday, Nov. 6th from 8:30pm to 9:45pm in the basement of the Parish Center. SJYM is a group of high school students, many SJS alums, who continue to share their faith after leaving our school. Our Youth Minister Marta Spiezio is looking forward to seeing everyone on 11/6! Questions contact Kelly Aguayo aguayodg@sbcglobal.net .

Scary Movie Night has now become Christmas Movie Night set for Saturday, Dec. 1st in Fitzgerald Hall in the lower level of the church. Details to follow.

A big thank you to Katy McLeod for the wonderful job she did running this years Annual 8th Grade Pumpkin Sale. Everything went off without a hitch . . . accept for the 45 pumpkins she had to hall back to her home because families forgot to pick them up. But she handled it beautifully and with Meg Davis' help contacted all the families to remind them to come get their goodies. And thanks as well to Mary Przybyl for providing donuts for the busy volunteers. Another great team effort and successful fundraiser for the Class of 2008!

Till Next Week

The Fab Four

Apology

2007-10-20T15:43:00.000-07:00

Hi everyone,

This email does not come to you from the Fab Four, but from Kelly Aguayo . . . the author of yesterdays email regarding last minute help for decorating the gym. I just wanted to say that I am truly sorry if I upset anyone with that email! I read through and edited the text several times hoping to word it in a way that was quick and yet concise.

I should know better than to use capital letters but I just wasn't thinking. The only reason I capitalized the word "tonight" was because I know how I am when I read emails and I inherently mess up my dates. So that wasn't done because I was upset, but because I can personally be an airhead. And nothing was directed toward any specific families, it was just a general plea for assistance.

Please know this was nothing more than an innocent attempt to make the 8th grade girl's volleyball players feel special for their last game as Crusaders on their home floor. We have a wonderful class, great parents and had an awesome turnout of fan support at both games. The last thing I wanted to do was seem ungrateful for any of that.

My Sincere Apologies, Kelly Aguayo

Please read immediately

2007-10-19T10:47:00.000-07:00

The current count is (1) student and (1) parent to decorate the gym for the 8th Grade Girls final volleyball game TONIGHT. The game isn't until 8pm, but the gym needs to be decorated before the earlier games begin. If anyone gets this email and could run over to school between 4:30pm and 5:30pm, even if it's just for part of the time, maybe on your way home from the train or work, I'm sure the volleyball teams would really appreciate it!

If you and/or your student can make it just reply to this email tell us who'll be there.

Thank you, thank you, thank you!!!

The Fab Four

Final Volleyball games, Pumpkin Sale & Thanks

2007-10-16T12:51:00.000-07:00

This weekend marks the final home Volleyball Games for our 8th grade girls!
Girls "A" Team - Friday, Oct. 19th @ 8pm
Girls "B" Team - Saturday, Oct. 20th @ 4pm
We'd love to see a great turnout at both games to support our girls one last time on their home floor.

With that in mind we have a last minute request looking for Parent and Student volunteers to help decoate the gym for both games. The girls did a great job making a hoop, etc. for the boys football team at Homecoming, so here's the chance for the boys to return the favor.
The hope is to make a sign or volleyball with each girls name and number to hang in the gym, then add some streamsers and balloons. The bulk of the decorating will take place on Friday night with a refreshing of balloons, etc. on Saturday afternoon.
So we are looking for volunteers to:
- Make signs
- Purchase streamers
- Purchase balloons
(receipts can be submitted to Maribeth Ruf c/o Jacqueline Rm. 7)
- Decorate Friday from 4:30 - 5:30pm
- Decorate Saturday from 2:30 - 3:30pm

Please email Kelly Aguayo aguayodg@sbcglobal.net if you are able to help in any way. If you have any additional ideas for decorating we'd love the help!

One last Pumpkin Sale Pick Up reminder for all those who volunteered to help this Saturday, October 20th.
Katy McLeod is still looking (1) parent to help her for each of the following shifts:
10:00am - 11:00am
11:00am - Noon
Please email Katy katymcleod@comcast.net if you are able to help at either time.

The remaining volunteers are as follows:
Parents
Doug Blanchard
Meg Davis
Cheryl Gesior
Julie Hughes
Mary Przybyl
Coleen Theisen

8:30am - 10:00am
Matt Blanchard
Emily Branderstein
Nicki Claus
Ansley McLeod
Brian Meier
Maeve Meier
Ray Miran
Greg Musil
Amy Perino
Megan Provenzale

10:00am - 11:00am
Ian Correll
Brian Durkin
John Holecek
Riley McGinnis
Matt Theisen

11:00am - Noon
Brendan Gesior
Pat Grogan
Martha Farrell
Kay Harris
Brigid Morrison

A BIG THANK YOU FOR ALL WHO HELPED MAKE THE SPIRIT WEAR FUNDRAISER SUCH A GREAT SUCCESS!!!
From the 20+ students and parents who helped model and sell the Spirit Wear at Meet and Greet, as well as Homecoming weekend. And for the die hard students and parents that stayed as late as 11:30pm last Wednesday sorting nearly 200 orders so they could be delivered to the families in record time!
We also need to thank the Pinelli family at P&S Signs & Apparel for helping to create the designs and deliver such an awesome selection of products that were top quality too.
But the biggest thank you goes out to our Class of 2008 Treasurer Maribeth Ruf for working since June on choosing product, selling the items and the biggest job . . . inputting, inventorying and reconciling the nearly 200 orders while handling the money too! It was a huge job and she did it to perfection!

Way to go Class of 2008!

The Fab Four

Pumpkin Sale and Spiritwear Order Sort

2007-10-09T07:48:00.000-07:00

Nearly half the class signed up to work the Pumpkin Sale pick up next Saturday October 20th from 9:00am - 12:00pm in the Church parking lot!!! What awesome participation! And if your student didn't sign up but would like to help, let us know. We have almost 150 pumpkins to unload and spread out.
Volunteers will arrive as early as 8:30am to unload pumpkins. We don't know yet whether we will be to the back of the Main lot or in the West lot so check both places. Any questions please email Katy McLeod at katymcleod@comcast.net .

We have the following volunteers signed up to help:
Parents 8:30am - whatever is convenient for you
Doug Blanchard
Meg Davis
Cheryl Gesior
Julie Hughes
Mary Przybyl
Coleen Theisen

8:30am - 10:00am
Matt Blanchard
Emily Brandenstein
Nicki Claus
Ansley McLeod
Brian Meier
Maeve Meier
Ray Miran
Greg Musil
Amy Perino
Megan Provenzale

10:00am - 11:00am
Ian Correll
Brian Durkin
John Holecek
Riley McGinnis
Matt Theisen

11:00am - 12:00pm
Brendan Gesior
Pat Grogan
Martha Farrell
Kay Harris
Brigid Morrison

Please contact Katy McLeod if you or your child cannot cover your shift.

Just a reminder to all who volunteered to sort Spiritwear orders in the school hall tomorrow night, Wednesday October 10th from 8:00pm - 9:30pm. See you there!

No word yet on the new date for the Movie Night but we'll let you know ASAP.

Have a great week!

The Fab Four

Reminders - Volunteers, Movie Night, Blog

2007-10-03T16:00:00.000-07:00

Students & Parents who volunteered for Wednesday, October 10th @ 8pm we will be sorting Spirit Wear orders in the School Hall for delivery the following day. Here is a list of the participants:
Clare Biederman
Michael Binder
Matt Blanchard
Nicki Claus
Peter Danchisin
Martha Farrell
Taylor Kasal
Brian Meier
Brigid Morrison
Lindsey Tucker
Yolanda Wojdyla

Colleen Morrison, Maribeth Ruf and Kelly Aguayo are the current parent volunteers but we are in need of two more adults to check orders. If you are available to help please email Kelly at aguayodg@sbcglobal.net , we would really appreciate it!

Volunteer sign up sheets for the Pumpkin Sale on Saturday morning October 20th from 8:30am - 12pm will be posted in the classrooms so please encourage your student to help out for whatever hours they can that morning. It's alot of fun and the last chance to help with fundraising until after the holiday's.

Movie Night that was scheduled for Saturday, October 27th has been postponed due to the Benet Junior High Rally that runs that day until 8pm. We are working on a new time and we'll update you as soon as possible.

For those who may not realize it, the BLOG is still up and running. Each email you receive is also posted to the BLOG and then archived in the right margin in case you need to look back at information. At the bottom of this and all emails you will find a link to the blog that looks like this

"Posted by St. Joseph Class of 2008 to SJS CLASS OF 2008 at . . ."

When you click on the underlined SJS CLASS OF 2008 at the bottom of this email it will take you directly to the BLOG. Bookmarking the page might be a good idea.

If you have any ??? just reply to this email . . . and don't worry, your reply's will no longer be a mass email to the entire group.

That's all for now,

The Fab Four

Class T-Shirts

2007-09-26T20:34:00.000-07:00

The Class T-Shirts were handed out today and they look great! Thanks to Anne Ryan for getting on this project from the very first day of school, working with the students, teachers and Sister Dorothy to come up with an awesome shirt, designed by the kids.

Thanks as well to Erica Ryan who made up the survey and order sheets and did a great job of playing courier for Anne.

These t-shirts can be worn by the students every Friday with their regular uniform skirts and pants. It's a special perk for our 8th graders.

Thanks again Ryan girls for all your hard work!

The Fab Four

District 99 Enrollment and Testing

2007-09-25T17:42:00.000-07:00

This is just a friendly reminder regarding the forms that were sent home last Thursday from Community HS District 99. This was a registration form for North/South High School as well as notification of the pre-entrance test on Saturday, October 13th at 7:45am. This test takes place at Downers Grove South only, but is for students looking to attend either school.
The forms came late to St. Joseph's but the high schools have said to simply mail back the registration ASAP.

Peace,

The Fab Four

Graduation Dates AND Times

2007-09-24T10:39:00.001-07:00

Thought you might like to know the times as well as the dates for our Graduation festivities

Graduation Dinner Dance

Thursday, May 29th

6:30 pm

School Hall

Graduation Mass

Saturday, May 31st

7:00pm

St. Joseph Church

Picture Parent, Student Volunteers & Graduation Dates

2007-09-21T15:39:00.000-07:00

- Calling all photography buffs, or at least one from Mr. Murphy's class that could be the other picture parent for the 8th grade. You'll be working with Doris Chelman to help capture great memories of our kids final year. And even though Doris is a SuperMom, she just can't handle this alone! If your ready to join the ranks of the paparazzi contact Kelly Aguayo at aguayodg@sbcglobal.net to sign up.

- Check your calendar and encourage your student to volunteer to sort and fill orders for Spirit Wear on Wedneday, October 10th @ 8pm in the school hall. We will need at least ten students to pull the orders and 2-3 additional adults to check the orders and organize them. A student sign up sheet will be posted at school. Parents wishing to help can reply to this email with their availability. There is also a change for the October 27th Movie Night. After learning last night that Benet has a conflicting event we are working to change the movie to a new date. Updates to folow.

- Saved the best for last. The dates for graduation have finally been decided after many conflicts with the public and private high school graduations.

Graduation Dinner Dance

(for Parents and their Graduate)

Thursday, May 29th

* * *

Graduation Mass

Saturday, May 31st

We'll be wearin' our dancin' shoes on May 29th. See you there!

The Fab Four

P.S. - Don't forget to sign up for Picture SuperParent and Spirit Wear sorting.

Thanks for a wonderful Homecoming weekend!

2007-09-17T11:26:00.000-07:00

Wow! The Lord certainly Blessed us with a beautiful weekend to celebrate the Class of 2008's final Homecoming at St. Joe's. And what made it even better was the participation of the students, parents and families. Looking at the overflow crowd at church on Saturday night, starting off the festivities to take time in prayer, just reinforced how special this time in their life is and what a gift St. Joe's is to our families.

Thank you to Fr. Jerome for taking so much time out of his very busy schedule to spend with our students. You are a loving presence in our school and we're so happy to have you back.

Thank you to Sr. Dorothy for putting up with all our requests over the past month or more. You patience is greatly sppreciated.

Thank you to all the graduates who took time away from their fun to help sell spiritwear and do face painting this weekend. You were so kind to the kids, especially the little ones and the spiritwear sales for the weekend were just over $1,000!!!

Thank you to the parents who helped organize the weekend, decorate the gym, drive Saturday night for decorating as well as over see spiritwear sales and face painting. Everything went off without a hitch.

Thank you to our 8th grade coaches who give so much of their time and talent to our kids, not only teaching them sports skills but life skills as well. As Dan Biederman mentioned last year, he doesn't remember many adults from his years in school, but he does remember one really special coach who cared for him and respected him. Our coaches will be remembered.

Thanks again for another great memory!

The Fab Four

Invitation to all 8th Graders for Sept. 15th

2007-09-15T10:08:00.001-07:00

The Harris family has generously offered to have the ENTIRE 8th grade class to their home tonight Sept. 15th, once those going out to TP have finished. We are estimating to be done by 9pm.

The Harris' address is 442 57th Street (take Fairview 2 blocks south of 55th Street and turn west on 57th)

You can pick up your child by 11pm.

Thanks so much to the Harris family for their generosity and COURAGE!

Homecoming Weekend Reminders

2007-09-14T14:09:00.000-07:00

If you have agreed to have your house toilet papered, please send your son/daughter to the Pep Rally with (8) rolls of toilet paper - (4) to decorate & (4) to donate
All Girls are welcome to meet at the Provenzale's - 4085 Douglas Road - 963-4188, Friday, Sept. 14th from 6-8pm to make signs for the boy's houses. Otherwise we hope to see you at 5pm mass and then the Pep Rally in the school gym!
All Boys are welcome to meet Mrs. Durkin at 3pm Saturday afternoon, Sept. 15th before mass to make signs for the girl's houses . . . location TBD, call Mary Durkin on Sat. # 971-9214 (home) or 630-640-2750 (cell) for the final site. Otherwise we hope to see you at 5pm mass and then the Pep Rally in the school gym.
All Students participating in the toilet papering should meet at the entrance to church immediately following the Pep Rally - approx 7pm.
Many Students volunteered their time on Saturday and Sunday to help raise funds for their class. Please check the list below to make sure your student is available to help at their assigned time(s). If not please ask them to find a replacement:

Saturday, Sept. 15th immediately following Mass selling Spirit Wear at the Pep Rally: Cailin Aguayo, Bridget Bicek, Kelly Bowe, Jessica Fields and Megan Provenzale

Sunday, Sept. 16th 10:30 am - 1:00pm selling Spirit Wear: Amy Perino and Victoria Przybyl

Sunday, Sept. 16th 10:30am - 1:00pm for Face Painting: Victoria Przybyl, Amy Perino, Megan Provenzale, Austin Ruf, Ian Correll

Sunday, Sept. 16th 1:00pm - 3:00pm selling Spirit Wear: Greg Musil, Cailin Aguayo, Bridget Bicek, Kelly Bowe, Jessica Fields, Erica Ryan

Sunday, Sept. 16th 1:00pm - 3:00pm for Face Painting: Brigid Morrison, Kay Harris, Taylor Kasal, Austin Ruf

Questions please call Mary Durkin at 971-9214 (home) or 630-640-2750 / Kelly Aguayo 964-2583 (home) or 630-212-3331 (cell)

Class T-Shirts & Far too many emails!

2007-09-11T12:08:00.001-07:00

GREAT NEWS! If you have not yet seen the t-shrit order form come home, the Class Motoo has been chosen, "It's not the end . . . It's only the beginning". This will be placed on t-shirts that the kids will be able to wear every Friday along with their normal uniform bottoms. The cost is $9.25/each and we'd like to get the orders in ASAP so the kids can begin wearing them to school. So remind your child to deliver the order form so they can start sporting their new T's!

If we figure out how to add an attachment to these posts we'll send you a copy of the order form too. But for now it's still a work in progress.

More good news! We figured out how to stop all the mass emails! Now, even if you do reply to the post emails, it will no longer go to everyone! So you can give your inboxes a well deserved rest.

IT'S NOT THE END . . . IT'S ONLY THE BEGINNING

The Fab Four

TEST POST & Homecoming

2007-09-09T15:19:00.000-07:00

TEST POST - Wee Who! I think we finally have all the emails added to the blog. But just to be sure could you please email Kelly Aguayo at aguayodg@sbcglobal.net to let us know if you received this post. If we don't hear from you by Tuesday we will have to begin calling to make sure that everyone is properly listed.

HOMECOMING - This is a crazy week so here’s what’s going on:
1. Mercedes Cassata and Coleen Theisen have both signed up to help out. Mary Durkin will contact you with details.
2. There will be sign up sheets in the classrooms this week for the students to 1) help volunteer at the pep rally to sell spirit wear and 2) sell spirt wear again at the football game and do face-painting. We've already had many kids volunteer at the Meet & Greets, we'd love to see some new faces, so please encourage your child to get involved!
3. The pep rally is after 5pm mass this Saturday Sept. 15th. This is for the entire class, not just those in sports. We encourage all the kids to come share the Crusader Spirit!
4. We have received the OK to toilet paper the home’s of the football and volleyball players. Again your child does not have to be in a sport to participate. Just let us know if your student would like to get involved so we know how many cars we need.
5. With that in mind we are looking for parent volunteers to drive for toilet papering after the pep rally. Please contact Mary Durkin at dkn51@comcast.net or 971-9214 if you are available to help. It really is a ton of fun!
6. All families that do have children in sports, we need your OK in order to “decorate” your child’s home. So please email back with a YES or NO so we don’t forget anyone or TP a house that can’t have it or doesn’t want it.
7. Anyone wanting to have their house done, we ask you bring (2) four or six packs of 1-ply toilet paper to the pep rally. One will be used to decorate and one will be a donation to the food pantry.

Again, PLEASE EMAIL aguayodg@sbcglobal.net to let us know if you've received this post, even though you may not need to answer any of the questions above we still need to know this communication is working.

Thanks for all your support,

The "Fab Four" Room Mom's

Class T-Shirts

2007-08-17T09:58:00.000-07:00

Just a reminder for those new as well as veteran 8th grade parents. Each year the graduating class is allowed to create a t-shirt that can be worn to school every Friday. We hope to get this done quickly so the students can begin wearing the shirts ASAP. The first step is to choose a saying for the shirts. So tell your 8th grader to get their creative juices flowing and come to school this week with their favorite saying in mind.
Any questions please contact Anne Ryan at 810-1188 or sryan2000us@yahoo.com .
Don't forget to scroll down for information about our parent meeting on August 29th!

Meet & Greet 8th Grade Parent Meeting Wed., August 29th

2007-08-06T18:34:00.000-07:00

On August 29th at the close of the regular Meet & Greet night for the middle school, the 8th Grade Room Parents are holding a meeting for all 8th grade Dads AND Moms. We're guessing this should be about 8:30pm in the School Hall. We didn't want to pull you out on another evening for a meeting, so we thought we'd get it all done in one night.
This is a big year for our 8th graders and we are so excited about what the next nine months will bring. There are so many opportunities for our kids to grow closer to one another, grow as individuals and hopefully leave St. Joe's with amazing memories that will last for many years to come.
We look forward to seeing all of you at this fun informational meeting for our Class of 2008!