Labor Day weekend is a time to reflect on memorable summer events — the family reunion, the stay-cation, the Beijing Olympics.

Three summers ago, I visited the ancient city of Beijing. What I discovered was a modern city busy constructing sports venues, hotels and highways. In addition, painters were applying fresh color onto centuries-old buildings.

As a tourist, I visited the emperor’s Forbidden City, the Summer Palace, Tiananmen Square and the Great Wall of China. It’s a visit I’ll always remember.

Roselle residents Jeremy and Jermaine Kline visited an Olympic city this summer but they weren’t tourists. The teenage twins visited Omaha, Neb., and competed in the July 22 to 28 USA Track and Field Junior National Olympics.

“It was their first time competing in the Junior Olympics,” said their mom, Susie Kline. “Their freshman coach at Lake Park, Robert Nihells, really encouraged them.”

The Lake Park (now) sophomores competed in the 12-pound shot put and the discus. To qualify, the twins had competed in regional meets in Kankakee and North Chicago. Both brothers easily earned their place at the Junior Olympics.

“I thought it wasn’t going to be hard,” Jermaine said.

He soon learned otherwise.

“I tensed up and didn’t throw the way I expected. But overall, I had a really great time.”

His brother echoed the sentiment.

“It was really exciting,” Jeremy said. “It was a great experience. I hope I get to do it again.”

Tense or not, both boys returned home with shiny medals. Jeremy placed third in the discus. Jermaine placed sixth in the shot put. In the Junior Olympics, athletes receive honors up to eight places.

No matter what place, anyone from our area who competes in the Junior Olympics is a Noteworthy Neighbor. Congratulations, Kline brothers. Your community is proud of you.

Carol Stream  history

Closer to home, the Historical Society of Carol Stream is planning its Fifth Annual Market Place from 10 a.m. until 3 p.m., Saturday, Sept. 13, at the Historic Farmhouse on Lies Road, west of Hampe Park.

Barbara O’Rahilly invites everyone to attend. The farmhouse will brim with antiques, craft items, flea market items and a used book sale. A limited edition Christmas ornament featuring the Historic Farmhouse will be available for purchase.

From 11 a.m. until 1 p.m., there will be children’s activities including (for a nominal fee) photos beside the 1934 tractor. For information, call (630) 665-0686.