In June, the Enquirer featured three groups of “Best Friends” who have nurtured long-term friendships in spite of distance and circumstance.

        One duo, Julie Levis and David Aldinger, received many comments after the story. Their friendship has weathered several trials during the past 12 years. The biggest occurred during their five-year marriage. What causes most divorced couples to never speak in calm terms actually became the start of a beautiful friendship for them. They grew up.

CUTLINE OF PHOTO GOES RIGHT HERE, U/L CASE ([name of photographer] photo) | ZOOM |

        “We had a great marriage in 1990,” Ms. Levis said in the story. “But we recognized that we had grown apart and went hand-in-hand through our divorce in 1995. I think we became even better friends after that.”

        “If we don't speak every day, it's odd,” Mr. Aldinger said.

        Today, Mr. Aldinger remains an important part of Ms. Levis and her daughter Kristin's life. Ms. Levis' boyfriend, Matt, is also a part of this unusual circle of friends.

        Ms. Levis says none of them expected the “amazing reaction from family and friends” after the story ran June 11.

        “It was fun,” she says.

        They're all preparing for Kristin's first day of kindergarten next month.

        “Our friendship is exactly the same, if not better,” Ms. Levis says.

        Kristin begins her career as a student Sept. 5 and “she's all ready to go,” reports mom. Although Kristin and Mr. Aldinger haven't made their school shopping rounds yet, he looks forward to being an involved surrogate parent during Kristin's school years.

        “He's so proud of her,” says Ms. Levis. “And he's very consistent with how I raise Kristin,” so the new student can look forward to having three homework helpers.

        The story also drew inquiries concerning the board game pictured with the Levises and Mr. Aldinger. Golf Check ($125) is Mr. Aldinger's creation. Although he's looking for a new manufacturer, he has a few limited-edition games for sale. Leave him a message at 984-2103.

Original story

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