Alumni of IC Catholic Prep/ Immaculate Conception High School gathered at a Distinguished Alumni Mass and Recognition last week at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church. The Very Rev. Thomas Paul (back row), Pastor of Immaculate Conception Parish, presided over the Jan. 29 Mass and Recognition, which honored Missy (Eberle) Idasek (Class of 1985) as this year’s Distinguished Alumni honoree. Idasek (front row, middle) began teaching at IC during the 198990 school year. Now in her 36th year of teaching, Idasek has taught more than 3,000 students at IC Catholic Prep/Immaculate Conception High School.
“Missy’s legacy reflects faith, passion and service,” noted an IC Catholic Prep social media post to celebrate Idasek’s special recognition. “Here’s to 36 years of making a difference, one student at a time!”
Elmhurst Centre for Performing Arts Hearts for the Arts returns
Campaign continues throughout February
The Elmhurst Centre for Performing Arts (ECPA) is bringing back its Hearts for the Arts campaign for the fifth consecutive year, with Chairperson Amy Kinsella leading the way. Reimagined and expanded for 2025, each Hearts for the Arts retail partner will select their own product for this year’s campaign. From apparel to chocolate to flowers to pizza, there is something for everyone.
This year’s campaign kicked off on Jan. 24 with a launch party at Tannins Wine Bar. Owner Mike Allas said, “I am proud to support the efforts of ECPA. As a retail partner, I love that this campaign not only promotes shopping local but also celebrates the arts in our community”.
Hearts for the Arts will run throughout the month of February.
The ECPA Hearts for the Arts campaign was created to drive traffic into local small businesses, while supporting the overall ECPA mission of offering performances in live theater, music, dance, and comedy, where artists and patrons share their love of the performing arts.
At the time of publication, the
following is a list of retail partners and offers:
• *151 Kitchen and Bar – 15 percent back to ECPA of all online orders every Wednesday
• *Armand’s Pizzeria – 10 percent back to ECPA of all heart shaped pizzas (3 sizes) all month
• *Aunt Tina’s Kitchen– Southern Comfort Food Sundays – 20 percent back to ECPA from all Sunday orders
• *Ella’s Italian Pub – 20 percent back to ECPA every Tuesday
• *Gia Mia – 20 percent back to ECPA every Thursday
• Judith B – Set of two tea towels, 100 percent back to ECPA
• Kie & Kate Couture – percent sales back to ECPA of Heart shaped necklace
• Kilwins – 15 percent back to ECPA, specially marked caramel apples and fudge
• Kneaded Bagels – percent sales back to ECPA of Triple Berry bagel and Berry Vanilla cream cheese all month
• La Jolie MLN – 10 percent back to ECPA of all Jovani and Mac Duggal dresses
• Maxine – 15 percent back to ECPA of all ‘Support Live Music’ sweatshirt sales
• Phillip’s Flowers & Gifts –percent back to ECPA of specially marked arrangements
• *Pints Elmhurst – 15 percent back to ECPA of all online orders every Monday
• Rise N’ Thrive – 10 percent back to ECPA of Strawberry Cheesecake
Shakes and Encore Tea
• *Stray Hen Café – percent back to ECPA
• Tannins Wine Bar & Boutique
– Set of two tea towels, 100 percent back to ECPA, and percent of specially tagged wine sales
• *Victory Meat & Seafood – Filets on Fridays! 10 percent back to ECPA of all Filet sales on Friday *Must mention ECPA when ordering. For updates, visit ECPA-Elmhurst.org. To partner with ECPA or become a Sponsor, send an email to ECPAElmhurst@gmail.com.
The Elmhurst Centre for Performing Arts (ECPA) is presenting its Hearts for the Arts campaign for the fifth consecutive year. This year’s campaign began on Jan. 24, and will continue throughout the month of February. One photo (above) shows (left to right) ECPA staff members Shawna Roubitchek and Jenn Guistolise with Hearts for the Arts Chairperson Amy Kinsella and ECPA Board Member Nicole Alvarez. Another photo (left) shows (left to
and
SUBMITTED PHOTOS Elmhurst Independent
right) Hearts for the Arts retail partners Mike Allas (Tannins), Megan Gavin (Kilwins), Amy Sutton (Kneaded Bagels), Kati Kemph (Kie & Kate Couture)
Nina Davalos (Rise N’ Thrive).
It’s National Children’s Dental Health Month.
Did you know that dental-related ailments are responsible for the loss of more than 50 million school hours each year? That’s right. Thousands of children miss school every year because of some dental-related ailment. Fortunately, many of these ailments can be prevented through good oral care.
This National Children’s Dental Health Month, make your child’s smile a priority. Take them to the dentist regularly and teach them to care for their teeth properly.
The elmhursT IndependenT
Your Hometown Newspaper
Locally owned and operated
240 N. West Avenue Elmhurst, IL. 60126
Main Phone 630.834-8244
Fax 630.834-0900
Visit us at: TheElmhurstIndependent.com
The Elmhurst Independent USPS#022-607 is published every Thursday by Rock Valley Publishing, LLC, 240 N. West Avenue, Elmhurst, IL. 60126. Periodical Postage Paid at Elmhurst, IL.
The Elmhurst Independent print version is mailed to residents in the 60126 zip code with a paid donation. See inside this issue for an order form. Out-of-area mail subscriptions are $45.00 yearly. Single copies are also available at more than 80 newsstand locations in Elmhurst. For home delivery information call 630.834-8244.
Reprints:
Content appearing in the Elmhurst Independent may not be reprinted without permission of the publisher or editor. Requests should be directed to Independent@rvpublishing.com or 630.834-8244.
Postmaster: Please send address changes to:
THE ELMHURST INDEPENDENT
240 N. West Avenue, Elmhurst, IL. 60126
Office Hours: Monday-Friday 11am-3pm
Elmhurst Park District earns multiple awards at state conference
By Jane Charmelo FOR THE ELMHURST INDEPENDENT
The Elmhurst Park District (EPD) recently announced that it was the recipient of multiple awards at the Illinois Association of Park Districts (IAPD)/Illinois Park and Recreation Association (IPRA) Soaring to New Heights Conference, held Jan. 23-25 at the Hyatt Regency Chicago.
According to the IPRA, the Soaring to New Heights Conference is “the largest state park and recreation conference in the nation.”
The event includes “quality educational programming, networking and professional development.”
Even Gov. JB Pritzker acknowledged the conference, stating, “This occasion offers an exciting opportunity for everyone in attendance to join fellow members of IAPD and IPRA and generate ideas that implement solutions. I commend the work you have done to help make Illinois a stronger and more enjoyable state.”
Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson praised the organizations, saying: “The Illinois Association of Park Districts (IAPD) and Illinois Park and Recreation Association (IPRA) have been a vital resource for park districts, forest preserves, conservation efforts, municipal parks and recreation, and special recreation agencies across the state, offering exceptional service, research and education.”
At the conference, EPD Executive Director Jim Rogers was given the IPRA Professional of the Year award which, the EPD explained, is “presented annually to a current Illinois park and recreational professional who has made a significant impact or achievement in the field of parks and recreation and/or the community in which they serve.”
Rogers has been with the EPD since 1994, and has served as director of Recreation and director of Parks and Recreation. He became the executive director in 2012.
The EPD noted how Rogers has “expanded recreational opportunities” over his 30 years of service, such as securing $1.8 million in 2012 for renovation of the historic Wilder Park Conservatory, connecting the Salt Creek Greenway Trail in 2018 and “expanding parks and facilities,” such as Centennial Park, the Mary E. Kies Recreation Center, Pick Park and the Canine Corner dog park.
He is also involved in the Elevate Elmhurst Parks initiative—after the passage of a referendum in 2024— which will include a new community center and a band shell in Wilder Park, permanent heated bathrooms in four locations and the conversion of a grass field at Berens Park to artificial turf.
When asked about receiving the award, Rogers said, “I’m truly honored to have received the award and know that it also represents the larger efforts made by everyone here at the district.”
In a press release, park district commissioner Meghan Scarsella commented of Rogers: “His legacy of innovation and dedication continues to shape a vibrant, accessible and inclusive future for Elmhurst.”
Julie Bruns, EPD director of Human Resources and Risk, received
In one photo (above), Jim Rogers, executive director of the Elmhurst Park District, is pictured with the IPRA Professional of the Year Award. In another photo (right - left to right) are Catalina Galvan (Human Resources & Risk supervisor), Julie Bruns (director of Human Resources & Risk) and Rogers. Bruns received the inaugural Liz Cox SIGnificance of Excellence Award.
the inaugural IPRA Liz Cox SIGnificance of Excellence Award.
According to the park district, the award was created “to recognize individuals in the administrative and financial section of IPRA who have exhibited excellence in collaborative leadership and/or mentoring within the organization.”
Bruns has been a fulltime human resources professional in the field of parks and recreation for 26 years.
Catalina Galvan, EPD Human Resources and Risk supervisor, said of Bruns, “Her outstanding contributions not only advance the HR profession but also enrich the experiences of all IPRA members involved in HR and risk management.”
Besides Rogers and Bruns receiving awards, three members of the EPD Board of Commissioners were recognized by the IAPD “for their participation in the Board Member Development Program. This program recognizes board members who go the extra mile in their commitment to achievements, committee involvement and attendance at continuing educational opportunities. The program has three levels of achievement,” according to the EPD.
“Commissioner Carolyn Ubriaco obtained the third and highest level of Master Board Member, and Commissioners Meghan Scarsella and Susan Smentek obtained the second level of Distinctive Board Member,” the EPD outlined.
Lastly, the EPD took home first place in the Agency Showcase-Marketing Campaign category “for their submission of referendum materials,” the EPD shared.
In response to the multiple recognitions at the conference, Kari Felkamp, CPRP, EPD director of Marketing and Communications, shared the following comment: “The Elmhurst Park District is honored to be recognized with these awards, which highlight the dedication and talent of our staff, as well as the com-
mitment of our Board of Park Commissioners. Our team consistently strives to provide exceptional parks, programs and services to our community and these achievements are a testament to their hard work and passion.
“We take great pride in the caliber of work we produce, and we remain committed to enhancing the quality of life for Elmhurst residents through innovation, collaboration and outstanding service.”
According to the park district, the event included over 4,000 parks and recreational professionals from across the state.
For more information about the Elmhurst Park District, visit www. epd.org.
“ We take great pride in the caliber of work we produce, and we remain committed to enhancing the quality of life for Elmhurst residents through innovation, collaboration and outstanding service.”
– Elmhurst Park District
AAUW Elmhurst area branch now accepting applications for three $4,500 scholarships
The Elmhurst Branch of the American Association of University Women (AAUW) is now accepting applications for three $4,500 scholarships for women in need of financial assistance to continue their education at the undergraduate or graduate level.
The deadline to apply is April 15. AAUW’s mission is to advance gender equity through research, education and advocacy.
To be eligible, women must be 23 or older and residents of Elmhurst, Addison, Bensenville, Berkeley, Northlake, Oak Brook, Oakbrook Terrace or Villa Park.
Applicants must have already completed 12 credit hours at an accredited community or undergraduate college or university. Applicants may be full or part time students.
For an application and/or more information, visit https:// elmhurstarea-il.aauw.net/ Call 630-207-4851 after your application is submitted to confirm receipt.
The AAUW Elmhurst Area Branch is a not-for-profit 501(c)3 organization. Funds from the Elmhurst Branch’s annual used Book Sale are used to support the local scholarships, national AAUW research and programs for women and girls.
EPD PHOTOS Elmhurst Independent
Court grants state’s motion to detain armed Cook
County
man
charged with
possession of a stolen vehicle
Suspect reportedly led police on a high-speed chase passing through Villa Park and Elmhurst
DuPage County State’s Attorney Robert Berlin and Villa Park Chief of Police Michael Rivas announced last week that Judge Joshua Dieden had granted the state’s motion to detain pre-trial an armed Cook County man charged with leading police on a high-speed chase in a stolen car.
Jujuan Barnes, 19, of Dolton, appeared in court on Jan. 28, and was charged with one count of aggravated unlawful possession of a stolen motor vehicle (a Class 1 felony), one count of attempted aggravated unlawful possession of a stolen motor vehicle (a Class 2 felony), two counts of aggravated unlawful use of a weapon (a Class 4 felony) and one count of aggravated fleeing and eluding a police officer (a Class 4 felony).
On Monday, Jan. 27, at approximately 3:01 a.m., Villa Park police officers received information regarding a black Dodge Charger, valued at $43,695, that had just been stolen from a Kane County automobile dealership and fled from St. Charles police.
Officers located the vehicle, allegedly driven by Barnes, traveling at a high rate of speed and attempted to conduct a traffic stop, which was unsuccessful. It is alleged that instead of pulling over for officers,
the Charger continued driving at a high rate of speed, reaching speeds of approximately 106 miles per hour near North Avenue and Ardmore Avenue in Villa Park.
It is further alleged that the Charger was being trailed by a white Infiniti. It is alleged that both vehicles continued to flee from police eastbound on North Avenue.
During the pursuit, Elmhurst officers successfully spike-stripped the Charger at I-290 and North Avenue, but the Infiniti evaded the strips.
It is alleged that both vehicles entered I-290 east, exited at St. Charles Road into an Elmhurst residential neighborhood, near Fair Avenue and Sherman Avenue, where the Charger slowed down and two occupants, including Barnes and an unidentified individual, exited the Charger and entered the Infiniti, which continued to flee back onto I-290 east, reaching speeds of more than 100 miles per hour.
It is further alleged that between St. Charles Road and Mannheim Road, the driver of the Infiniti lost control and crashed into a Volvo, injuring the occupant of the Volvo, who was transported to a local hospital with minor injuries.
Following the crash, it is alleged that four occupants of the Infiniti fled on foot. Barnes was taken into custody after officers tasered him. Another individual was also taken into custody at that time.
As officers placed Barnes under arrest, they allegedly found a load -
ed Glock 22 handgun in his backpack, along with burglary tools and two generic key fobs capable of being reprogrammed. When processing the Infiniti, officers located a loaded RDA handgun with an attached 50-round drum magazine and a loaded Glock 22 with a 50-round drum magazine.
“The apprehension of the defendant in this case sends the crystal-clear message that in DuPage County, you cannot outrun the law,” Berlin said. “The allegations that Mr. Barnes led police on a 100-mph high-speed chase in a stolen vehicle while armed with a loaded handgun are extremely serious and will be met with the full force of the law. This behavior is extremely dangerous and puts not only the accused, but the officers involved as well as the motoring public at tremendous risk, as we saw in this case. Thankfully, the innocent victim that the Infiniti allegedly crashed into did not sustain life-threatening injuries. Once again, I urge everyone, if you hear sirens and see flashing lights behind you, pull over. Leading police on a high-speed chase is not the answer and will lead to serious consequences. I thank the Villa Park Police Department for their outstanding work on this case. I also thank Assistant State’s Attorneys Sean Kinsella and Michael Pingaj for their efforts in preparing a strong case against Mr. Barnes.”
“The public is reminded, if you are engaged in criminal activity in
this area, expect the Villa Park police officers to do all in our power to arrest you and bring you to justice,” Rivas said. “The alleged actions of the accused put the public at risk. There is no telling what future serious crime was thwarted by this arrest. The heroic actions of our Villa Park officers were aided by the great officers from the Elmhurst Police Department, the Hillside Police Department and the Oak Brook Police Department. The
level of coordination and communication with all agencies involved helped take the accused off the streets. We are relieved that the injuries to the innocent passerby was not serious. We thank DuPage County State’s Attorney Robert Berlin and his incredible team in seeking serious charges against the alleged offender.”
Barnes’ next court appearance is scheduled for Feb. 24, in front of Judge Joseph Bugos.
Elmhurst Police Department reminds residents to lock their vehicles
A suspect reportedly removed items from unlocked vehicles parked in residential driveways last week
The Elmhurst Police Department reported last week that a subject was looking to enter unlocked vehicles in the city.
“Overnight, Tuesday evening [Jan. 28] into early Wednesday morning [Jan. 29] a thief was on foot checking for unlocked cars to enter in the neighborhoods along North Avenue,” noted a statement from the police department. The statement mentioned that the police received a few reports of items stolen from unlocked vehicles that were parked outside in residential driveways in the area.
According to police the suspected thief was a male wearing a hooded coat or sweatshirt. Anyone with
helpful information or security video from that night is asked to call the Elmhurst Police Department at 630-530-3050.
The Elmhurst Police Department reminds residents to not make it easy for thieves to steal items from your vehicle. The police department advises residents to follow a few simple tips:
• Always lock your vehicles
• Park inside your garage, if possible
• Remove valuables from parked vehicles
• Call 911 immediately if you observe suspicious activity in your neighborhood, especially overnight.
Dr. Kelly talks straight about sciatica
Are you suffering from back pain or sciatica? Then it’s likely your biggest problem is pain. But there’s another major problem: bad information.
To end sciatica misery you must have the right information. Pay close attention because local doctor Kelly Synowiec-Moroney DC is going to destroy sciatica myths and give you the facts.
MYTH: Sciatica will just “go away” with some rest.
FACT: If you are dealing with back pain, buttock pain or leg pain, then you must seek help from a doctor who is knowledgeable in sciatica immediately. Left untreated, sciatica can lead to permanent nerve damage - and lifelong pain.
MYTH: Pain is the only problem associated with sciatica.
FACT: In severe cases, sciatica can lead to the inability to control your bowels or bladder - leading to embarrassing situations.
MYTH: You must take pain medications to deal with sciatica.
FACT: Drugs like muscle relaxants, pain killers, narcotics, antidepressants, and anti-seizure medications have serious potential side-effects and do not cure the root cause of sciatica.
MYTH: “I must have done something wrong to get sciatica.”
FACT: Physical work or simply sitting at a desk for long periods can lead to sciatica. Accidents and trauma can also be the culprits. Pregnancy can cause sciatica.
Sciatica can affect anyone - including super-fit celebrities like Tiger Woods, Sylvester Stallone, and British Olympic medallist Ian Wynne.
MYTH: Stop exercising and get several weeks of bed rest to overcome sciatica.
FACT: Staying active can help to relieve sciatic pain and prevent the pain getting worse. Staying inactive in bed could be the worst advice - based on a recent study in the Netherlands.
MYTH: Sciatica requires surgery.
FACT: NO! There’s been a huge breakthrough in the treatment of sciatica and lower back pain. It’s a new procedure called Non-Surgical ReConstructive Spinal Care. The excellent results from this treatment have been published in major medical journals. Success rates are up to 88%.
MYTH: “There’s nothing anyone can really do. I’m just stuck with this for the rest of my life.”
FACT: With the correct treatment from a healthcare professional who specialises in sciatica, you can find relief from the core cause - and the symptoms.
MYTH: Getting Sciatica properly diagnosed is expensive.
FACT: Not true. We are currently offering an initial consultation right here in Elmhurst for Just $79.
We have helped over 2,637 patients find relief from agonising back pain and sciatica. We are one of the first places to use Non-Surgical Re-
Constructive Spinal Care.
This procedure does not require a hospital stay. The focus is on finding - and correcting - the original cause of the back pain and sciatica.
According to Dr. Kelly, “We use a combination of ultra-advanced technology, not found elsewhere in the region, for precisely diagnosing the cause of your low back pain and sciatica. This means superior long-term results for most people.”
Because the treatment is non-surgical, safe, and easy, most patients report an almost immediately relief from their back pain.
Patient Jeff P. from Berwyn wrote, “My back pain was unbearable but the worst thing was the searing burning pain I felt in my buttock and leg... my wife insisted I see doctor Dr. Kelly. I’m 95% better in just a couple of weeks.”
Take the Next Step - END the Suffering... Initial Consultation Just $79
Call 630-941-8733 to schedule your appointment. Mention this article (CODE: IND43SCS12)
Only 100 reader consultations are available at this exclusively discounted rate. Call her office now and get a full and thorough x-ray to pinpoint the cause of your problem for just $79. You can even call on the weekend as there is always a staff member ready to assist you. During the week they are very busy, so if they don’t pick up straight away do leave a message.
Jujuan Barnes
Police beat
The Elmhurst Police Department recently reported the following arrests and citations. Persons charged with domestic battery are not named in order to protect the privacy of victims. Readers are reminded that an arrest does not constitute a conviction, and that subjects are considered innocent unless proven guilty in a court of law. Juveniles age 17 or younger are not named.
Arson
Jan. 25
Wilson A. Giron Miguel, 22, of Elmhurst, was charged with aggravated arson, residential arson and arson in the 400 block of N. Highview at 2:24 a.m. Police said that subsequent to an argument, the suspect set clothing on fire. The fire then spread to the interior of the home.
Assault, battery
Jan. 26
Estevan Perez, 28, of Bensenville, was charged with battery, aggravated assault to a security guard, and criminal trespass to property at Elmhurst Hospital at 5:14 a.m. Police said Perez was asked to leave the hospital and refused. While being escorted out, police said he struck a hospital public safety officer in the mouth and attempted to strike another public safety officer.
Jan. 25
Ernestine S. Hawthorn, 31, of Maywood, was charged with battery at a hotel in the 300 block of N. Route 83 at 2:05 a.m. Police said that subsequent to a fight in progress, Hawthorn was found to have a valid warrant out of DuPage and Cook counties.
Police said that subsequent to a verbal domestic in the 200 block of S. Monterey Ave., the complainant related she wanted her boyfriend to leave the house. While officers were still on scene, the two subjects began arguing again. Both parties agreed to separate for the night.
Jan. 26
A complainant near Butterfield and Prospect told police while walking, a suspect drove up beside her and asked if she wanted a ride. After she told the driver she did not need a ride, he used foul language and drove northbound from the scene.
Jan. 25
A 28-year-old Addison man was charged with two counts of domestic battery and obstructing a police officer in the 900 block of S. Hillcrest at 3:40 a.m. Police said that Subsequent to a report of a domestic battery, the suspect also was found to have a valid warrant out of DuPage County.
Jan. 24
Miguel G. Vargas Santeliz, 48, of Villa Park, was charged with disorderly conduct/ filing a false police report in the 100 block of E. First at 5:36 p.m. Police said after reviewing video surveillance regarding a previously reported hit and run, the officer determined the suspect’s story was not correct. The suspect admitted to being involved in an accident in a different town, according to police.
Jan. 23
A 38-year-old Elmhurst man was charged
with domestic battery in the 600 block of W. Fay at 4:07 p.m. Police said that subsequent to a report of a domestic battery, it was learned the suspect pushed the victim.
DUI, consumption of alcohol by a minor, illegal possession of alcohol
Jan. 29
Edward P. Urgitis, 73, of Elmhurst, was charged with DUI, improper lighting and improper lane usage subsequent to a traffic stop in the 900 block of N. York at 9:18 p.m.
Jan. 26
Derek Banks, 34, of Gary, Indiana, was charged with DUI, improper lane usage and possession of open alcohol by a driver subsequent to a traffic stop near Kenilworth and North at 1:51 a.m.
Johnny G. Sevilla Jr., 19, of Chicago Heights, was charged with zero tolerance DUI and improper lane usage subsequent to a traffic stop near North and Melrose at 2:08 a.m.
Jan. 25
Catherine M. Jordan, 78, of Elmhurst, was charged with DUI and failure to reduce speed to avoid and accident near St. Charles and York at 11:23 p.m.
Jan. 24
Michael R. McSweeney, 32, of Villa Park, was charged with DUI, improper lane usage, speeding and no insurance subsequent to a traffic stop near Willow and North at 11:27 p.m.
Harassment, threats
Jan. 28
Police said that subsequent to a call for a subject being verbally aggressive toward an employee at a business in the 800 block of N. Industrial, the suspect was located and issued a no trespass notice.
Identity theft, fraud
According to information provided by the Elmhurst Police Department, police reported five incidents of identity theft or fraud.
Possession of cannabis in a vehicle
According to information provided by the Elmhurst Police Department, police reported one incident of possession of cannabis by either the driver of a vehicle or a passenger: Mekhi Westby, 21, of Oak Park, near North and Melrose at 4:53 p.m. Jan. 25.
Suspicious incident
Jan. 28-Jan. 29
An unknown suspect(s) entered several un-
locked vehicles in the 100 block of N. Clinton between the above dates and rifled through the consoles.
A complainant in the 200 block of N. Indiana reported an unknown suspect(s) entered his unlocked vehicle overnight, but nothing appeared to be missing.
Afia G. Khattak, 37, of Morton Grove, was charged with retail theft and contributing to the delinquency of a minor at a store in the 300 block of S. Route 83 at 6:33 p.m. Police said that subsequent to a retail theft, the suspect was seen entering a vehicle as a passenger. A traffic stop was conducted, and the suspect was reportedly found to be in possession of stolen merchandise.
Jan. 27-Jan. 28
Police officers responded to a delayed burglary and criminal damage to property report in which an unknown suspect(s) cut the lock to gain access to the secure parking lot at an auto dealership in the 300 block of W. Grand. Police entered the dealership and observed that a vehicle had been damaged.
Jan. 24
Jesus Bello, 27, and Alex I. Navarro Lopez, 42, both of Melrose Park and passengers in a vehicle, were charged with retail theft near Butterfield and Cadwell at 9:51 p.m. Police said that subsequent to a traffic stop, the suspects were found to be in possession of stolen liquor. Additionally, police said Navarro Lopez was processed on a warrant for theft out of DuPage County.
Malachi D. Castner, 25, of Chicago, was charged with obstructing identification, unlawful possession of drug paraphernalia, criminal trespass to building and three counts of aggravated unlawful possession of a weapon at the Elmhurst Public Library at 9:08 p.m. Police said that subsequent to a call for a subject sleeping in the men’s bathroom, Castner was located and found to be in possession of a loaded firearm and to have four valid failure to appear warrants out of DuPage County.
A reporting officer observed a vehicle that had been reported stolen entering into Bensenville. Bensenville police responded and took the suspects into custody.
Jan. 23
Alexander J. Begovich, 31, of Bensenville, was charged with three counts of burglary in the 200 block of N. Addison. Police said that subsequent to a report of a burglary, it was learned that the suspect forced his way into the parking garage and made entry into the mail room.
Court grants state’s motion to detain Hanover Park man charged with robbing Lombard 7-Eleven stores at gunpoint
DuPage County State’s Attorney Robert Berlin and Lombard Chief of Police Tom Wirsing announced last week that Judge Joshua Dieden had granted the state’s motion to detain pre-trial a Hanover Park man accused of robbing two Lombard 7-Eleven convenience stores at gunpoint.
Syed Osman, 19, appeared in court on Friday, Jan. 31, and was charged with two counts of armed robbery with a firearm, a Class X felony.
As a result of an ongoing investigation, Lombard detectives developed Osman as a suspect in a string of eight robberies that occurred at two 7-Eleven convenience stores— one located at 246 S. Westmore Road (near the Illinois Prairie Path) and the other located at 801 S. Westmore Road (near Jackson Street), that began in March 2021.
The 7-Eleven at 801 S. Westmore Road is now closed.
The charges filed last week stem from allegations that on April 25, 2024, at approximately 10:41 p.m., Osman entered the
7-Eleven store located at 801 S. Westmore Road, displayed a silver handgun and ordered the clerk at gunpoint to give him cash, cigarettes and vape pods. It is alleged that after the clerk complied, Osman fled the store on foot. It is further alleged that on Oct. 2, 2024, at approximately 10:10 p.m., Osman entered the 7-Eleven store located at 246 S. Westmore Road, displayed a silver hand gun and ordered the clerk to give him vape pods and cash. It is alleged, that after the clerk complied, Osman fled the scene on foot.
Through the course of their investigation, detectives identified Osman’s residence in Hanover Park.
On Jan. 30, while surveilling Osman’s residence, detectives observed Osman drive away from the home. Officers initiated a traffic stop on Osman for speeding and took him into custody.
Osman’s next court appearance is scheduled for Feb. 24 in front of Judge Ann Celine O’Hallaren Walsh.
Court grants state’s motion to detain Lisle man accused of possessing child pornography
DuPage County State’s Attorney Robert Berlin and Lisle Chief of Police James Kruger announced last week that Judge Joshua Dieden had granted the state’s motion to detain pre-trial a Lisle man charged with possessing thousands of images of child pornography.
Charles Eastes, 67, appeared in First Appearance Court and was charged with one count of possession of child pornography—victim under 13 (Class 2 felony) and two counts of child pornography (Class 3 felony).
On Dec. 24, 2024, the Lisle Police Department received information from the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children regarding possible child pornography in DuPage County.
Through the course of their investigation, detectives were led to Eastes. On Jan. 8, the Lisle Police Department executed a search warrant at Eastes’ residence, which allegedly uncovered images of child pornography on Eastes’ cell phone, desktop computer and iPad. Authorities allegedly also located numerous photos—taken by Eastes—of middle school aged girls waiting at a bus stop located directly outside Eastes’ home.
Following the search, Eastes was taken into custody.
Eastes’ next court appearance is scheduled for Feb. 24 in front of Judge Joseph Bugos.
Obituaries
DENNIS JOSEPH MIAZGA, 81
Born: February 25, 1943 (Chicago, Illinois)
Died: January 27, 2025 (Algonquin, Illinois)
While Dennis Miazga was a man of few words, his presence, advice, guidance and a never-wavering willingness to help others were significant. Dennis died early Monday morning, January 27, at the family’s longtime headquarters in Algonquin due to complications from chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. He was 81.
Dennis grew up in Chicago, Illinois, where he is believed to have attended Lane Tech High School. Dennis later enlisted in the United States Army, deployed to a detail in Germany at one point. Upon exit from the military, Dennis matriculated to the northwest suburb of Island Lake near Wauconda where his parents had moved from the city while he was serving his country.
Professionally, Dennis enjoyed a three-decade career at United Airlines at O’Hare airfield where he worked as a cargo supervisor. At one point, Dennis, a significant longtime Chicago Bears football fan, had the pleasure of driving Bear luminaries to the team plane before road trips (the Bears’ players used to park their cars at United Air Freight).
During part of his tenure with the Friendly Skies, Dennis also worked for the Teddy’s Liquors chain in the Northwest suburbs. After retiring from United, Dennis worked for Ryan Management, a local movie theatre company, and also at Wedevag, a toolmaker based in South Elgin. He also found time in retirement to transport less-fortunate area seniors, bereft of automobiles or no longer capable of operating them, to their medical appointments, sometimes waiting hours for patients to wrap up kidney dialysis treatments.
It was at United Airlines where Dennis, a one-time motorcycle aficionado with a penchant for original Volkswagen bugs, met his future wife, Barbara.
The couple, which moved into the current family compound in Algonquin in 1977 after a short residency in Hoffman Estates, was married for 56 years (Barbara passed away Feb. 1, 2024, at a local medical facility, weeks after the couple celebrated that year-56 wedding anniversary milestone on Jan. 21, 2024).
Dennis and Barbara were inseparable, even more so later in their lives, and provided a textbook case study on the true meaning of marriage. They are first-ballot shoe-ins for both the marital and parental halls of fame, both their sons noted.
Dennis was preceded in death by
his parents, Joseph and Jean Miazga (of Island Lake), and their dog, Snapper, sister, Darlene, in-laws Lester and Ida Ebel, sister-in-law Ruth-Ann Kramer (Rhody), brother-in-law, Frank Kramer, and cats, Oscar, Betty, Willie and Wally. Dennis, however, was but a passing acquaintance of west-suburban canine legend Fenway the Beagle, a close confidant of Barbara’s. Fenway expired January 2024 at the rare dog age of 18.
Dennis is survived by sons Michael J. Miazga and Grant L. Miazga, grandchildren, Kyleigh Miazga and Danny Miazga, daughter-in-law, Kristin Herigodt-Miazga, sister, Kathy Wiltberger, brother-in-law, Bob Wiltberger, nieces, Amy Kramer, Allison Kramer, Christine (nee Wiltberger) Brown (husband Peter Brown; children Emmett and Ida Rose), and nephews, Andy Wiltberger (wife Tracy, twin children Ashley and Nathan) and Jeff Wiltberger (wife Erica, children, Andrew Joseph and Alexander), as well as cats Murphy (46 pounds, not a typographical error) and Wrigley (a wiry, athletic feline, able to traverse to the top of a massive 8-foot-high hutch cabinet in the family dining room where a bronzed statute of what appears to be a nude woman has stood untouched for nearly 5 decades).
A celebration of Dennis’ life will be held Saturday, Feb. 8 at Wait-Ross-Allanson funeral parlor in downtown Algonquin (201 S. Main St.) with a small, family gathering to be held afterward at a local pizza pub. Dennis and Barbara will lay to rest together at Crystal Lake Memorial Park Cemetery … in the monument section.
In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation in Dennis’ honor to the COPD Foundation (www.copdfoundation.org). A special thanks to the hospice professionals at Journey Care for their great care and work with Dennis during his final month.
GREGORY (GREG) KRIZIC, 71
Plans are being made for a future private celebration of life and memorial service.
HERBERT R. MUELLER, 98
In Loving Memory of Herbert Richard Mueller (98) of Bensenville, IL, formerly of Bartlett and Elmhurst, IL.
It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Herbert (Herb), a beloved father, grandfather, and friend, who peacefully departed this life to be with our Lord on January 27, 2025. Herb was born October 8, 1926, to Edwin Richard Mueller and Emma Marie (Klose Schmidt) Mueller. Herb is predeceased by 5 brothers and 1 sister. He grew up and lived in Elmhurst, IL, and graduated from York High School. At 18 years of age, he joined the army and was with the Sixth Div., 20th Infantry in the Philippians and then served in Korea as a Corporal Squad Leader. He then joined the First M.P. Ryukyu in Okinawa Japan and served as a head of a road guard on the China and Pacific Seas. Herbert was a WWII veteran who served two terms.
Herbert will be dearly missed by his children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren and great-great-grandchildren as well as many friends, co-workers, and other loved ones who cherished his wisdom, humor, love, and warmth.
Rest easy, Herbert, under the shade of the trees you loved so well. Your songs and spirit will echo in our hearts forever.
Visitation was February 2, 2025 and funeral service was February 3, 2025.
Interment Elm Lawn Cemetery, Elmhurst.
There will be a live stream of the service. The Link is: youtube.com\@ immanuelelmhurst\streams
To send a memorial gift to the family of Herbert R. Mueller please visit our Sympathy Store.
ROBERT A. SYLVESTER, 87
Robert Achille Sylvester, 87 of Elmhurst, passed away peacefully December 3, 2024 surrounded by his loving family.
it education. He was intrigued by the theology classes, enjoyed his business courses but had his sights on Bobbe and wrote numerous love letters that she kept in a wicker traveling case and saved for 63 years.
After college, Bob and Bobbe happily wed and as a newlywed Bob enlisted in the Army. Bobbe began to teach first grade while setting up their home and excitedly awaiting their first child. Bob and Bobbe went on to have 4 daughters. Bob was most proud when any one of them were throwing a ball, swinging a golf club or baseball bat, casting a line or dancing to their favorite music.
Gregory (Greg) Krizic, aged 71, passed away on January 26, 2025. He was the beloved husband of Lynn Krizic, loving brother of Debbie (Ken) Rymut, Jeff (Sherrie) Krizic, and Kelly Medina, brother-in-law of Sharon (Craig) Schlenker, Steve (Carol) Soprych and David Soprych, nephew of Donna (Jim) Wielgolewski, a cherished uncle of many nieces and nephews and a soon to be great uncle. He is preceded in death by his parents John and Gloria Krizic.
Greg attended and played football at the University of Illinois, had a long successful career in the coatings and rail industries, was a marathoner and triathlete, enjoyed traveling to the national parks, was a sports enthusiast, was a loyal friend, created a lifetime of memories for family and friends, had a special relationship with his nephew Jack and niece Laura, was always the smartest, kindest person in the room, and was the most supportive, unselfish spouse. His passing will leave a void in the hearts and lives of all of those who loved him.
Herb raised his family in Elmhurst, IL where he lived for 46 years before living in Bartlett, IL for 17 years. Herb was the beloved husband of his late wife, Lois (Sherman) Mueller. Loving father of late daughters Sharon Mueller and Denise (Doug) Erzinger and of late granddaughter, Jordyn Mueller. He is survived by his sister, May Marie White, daughter Debra (David) Potts, and son David (Leanne) Mueller, and is a dear grandfather of 8, great-grandfather of 5 and great-great-grandfather of 4 as well as Uncle to many. In past times, Herb loved to dance and loved the old-time country music. Herb enjoyed fishing on Papakeeche Lake, IN and relaxing in his lake house. He loved to reel in the “big” bass. He was also very artistic, both in sketching and word working. He was the family’s go to handyman who was always there to lend a hand. He carried all the wisdom he developed while at work as a Sheet Metal Worker with Local Union 265. He was a proud union man of his trade for 70+ years, and was known as Herbie. Herb loved working outdoors and kept a pristine lawn, perfectly groomed bushes and hedges as well as helping to tend to the flowers his wife, Lois planted. He had a love of trees and birds. He could whistle the tune of most birds and actually had them circling around his house confused and looking for a mate.
Above all, Herbert was a man of family. He was a devoted father and grandfather whose love and guidance shaped generations. Whether sharing his skills, whistling a tune, drawing multiple sketches or simply telling stories of the past, he left an indelible mark on those who had the privilege of knowing him. Herb was a long-time member of Immanuel Lutheran Church in Elmhurst, IL. He was a man of faith and knew exactly where his eternal home would be.
Born in Chicago, February 9, 1937 Bob was the youngest child of the late John and Anna (Menotti) Sylvester. He was preceded in death by his devoted wife Barbara (Orth) Sylvester; survived by his loving daughters Maura (Butch) Navarro, Barbara Colella, Cadden Kapsalis and Kate Sylvester; cherished grandchildren Anthony (Rachel), Michael (Mindy), Taylor (Ryan), Catey (Sean), Madison Navarro, Gino (Danielle) and Giulia Colella, Marcos and Caleb Kapsalis; beautiful great-grandchildren and fond uncle to many nieces and nephews.
Bob was the youngest of 3 – Louis 14 years his elder, Antoinette 7, and Bob was the baby. He looked up to his big brother, like a second father and followed by example when he joined the Army. He loved singing with his sister Nan, who sang like a songbird; they shared the love of music.
The Sylvester family moved to Lombard, Illinois where Bob attended Sacred Heart Catholic School until 8th grade. Bob arrived as a fully developed young man with his 5’10” stature, a distinct deep voice and broad shoulders.
He attended Glenbard High School in Glen Ellyn, played 4 years of football and was voted MVP by his peers. It was in high school that he met many of his lifelong, loyal and best friends. And although his mother was proud of him, she never once went to a game to watch him play for fear of seeing him get hurt.
During high school, Bob met Bobbe and soon after they were affectionately called “the Bobbes”. His beloved wife of 63 years, Bobbe, lived in Wheaton and after a high school gathering they took a car ride with another couple and found their true love while driving down Route 64, North Avenue all the way to Chicago. Mom fondly remembered Dad putting his arm around her and for 63 years she welcomed that gesture.
Bob graduated from Marquette University with a Bachelor of Science in business and was proud of his Jesu-
In 1971 Kate was born profoundly brain damaged. Bob and his family knew Kate needed more care and felt blessed to find Misericordia, Kates’s home away from home. Bob discovered public institutions were at capacity and private homes were cost prohibitive for most Illinoisans. He successfully utilized resources, connected with local friends in political positions and eventually helped to enact a state law to subsidize private homes for the disabled. Bob advocated for not only his daughter, but for all citizens of Illinois. From then, and to this date, that law is in place. Bob proudly volunteered and served as president of the Misericordia Parents Association and together with Bobbe and their family and friends have worked steadfastly over decades to fund raise for Misericordia.
Bob achieved top salesman for Sears Roebuck in Highland Park and utilizing his training in the areas of heating and cooling, went on to partner with his brother Lou in home construction. When the opportunity arose to strike out on his own, R.A. Sylvester Builders, Inc. was founded and as General Contractor he successfully developed subdivisions, built apartment complexes, and conscientiously guided customers through custom home construction throughout DuPage County. He became known as “Bob the builder” and often was heard saying, “The bitterness of a poorly built home remains long after the sweetness of a low price”. Bob served as president of Northern Illinois Homebuilders Association and enjoyed trips to Hawaii, Switzerland and Mexico as thanks for his years of strong leadership.
Not only hard working and dedicated to a cause, he was a die hard Chicago Cubs and Bears fan, an avid and studied fisherman, golfer, animated storyteller and history buff. He loved family, music and preparing and sharing a tasty meal. He always had a good joke to tell, a prank to pull and a hearty laugh to share!
A Mass of Christian burial is planned for February 15, 2025, 10 am at Immaculate Conception Church, 134 Arthur Street, Elmhurst, IL followed by interment at St. Peters Cemetery, Elmhurst, IL.
For more information please visit gibbonsfuneralhome.com or call 630832-0018.
In memory of Bob Sylvester, donations welcome to Misericordia Home c/o Kate Sylvester (#2241A), 6300 N. Ridge Ave., Chicago, IL. 60660 or misericordia.org.
Dennis and Barbara Miazga
Viewpoint
Slices of life
Every marriage ends badly, one way or another
Every marriage ends badly
There’s a morbid thought to start your day, or week
But it is—unfortunately—true.
Let’s start with the obvious: divorce. A marriage ending in divorce is a bad ending. It is something none of the participants saw coming—at least not in the beginning.
Then, somewhere along the way, most likely on an ordinary day, someone mentions the “D” word, and well, there it all goes—down the marriage vortex of uncertainty and lost dreams.
Divorce sucks. I wouldn’t know firsthand, but I think it’s a pretty good guess. I don’t think divorce is anyone’s first choice (or second, third or fourth) for how to end a marriage. But it happens. According to Google, nearly half of all marriages end this way.
Those odds are rough. Who wants to think of their wedding day as a coin toss? But I guess, statistically, that’s what it is.
Sheesh.
And then, guess what? If you win the coin toss (and good for you!) and you live to see yourself truly, madly, deeply living in a good (maybe even great) marriage, it is still going to end badly.
Oh heck, I’m just going to come right out and say it.
One of you is going to die.
And in that, the marriage ends. And with a death to end it, I feel safe in saying the marriage has ended badly.
My marriage ended badly I never saw it coming. In that, it was brutal.
The whole situation has given me lots of cause for thought. Because giving your love to another human being—whether it’s in marriage, having a child or cultivating a friendship—is going to end with one of you on topsoil and the other underground (at least in theory.)
Logic then would tell us all to avoid love. It always ends in hurt, 100 percent of the time. Why even go there?
Good question.
I’ve thought about the answer a lot. A lot. And I’m not sure I have the answer, but I do have ideas. We love because we are wired to
By JILL PERTLER Columnist
love. It is in our DNA. Our psyche. Our soul.
To live life without love would be living without living at all. It would be living in a shell. It would be empty and hopeless.
Love gives us hope. Love gives us purpose. Love helps to define not only our days, but our entire life, our entire being.
We love because loving is worthwhile. It is meaningful. It is hopeful. It is sitting down to dinner together. It is sharing a car. It is sharing children and grandchildren. It is building memories. It is holding hands and a hug at the end of the day. It is waking up next to someone.
Love is a choice. It is knowing that, while love never ends, life here on earth does and if you are afraid of that, you might miss out on all of it.
All marriage ends badly. In that, love ends badly; but that only applies to the definitions we have here on this physical earth. Because as I know it now, love never dies.
And here’s the deal as I see it. We are here to experience this glorious, love-filled planet to its fullest. If that doesn’t include opening our hearts to love, then I’m not sure I understand the lesson.
But I’m still learning—and have long way to go before I sleep.
At least I hope so. In the meantime, I encourage you to embrace love in whatever form it comes to you.
I’m trying my best to do the same. Even with knowing the outcome. Because sometimes it’s not the final outcome that matters—but the journey along the way.
Enjoy your journey
Jill Pertler is an award-winning syndicated columnist, published playwright and author. Don’t miss a slice; follow the Slices of Life page on Facebook.
State lawmakers weigh TikTok’s value
Democrats, Republicans share insight into the app’s current state
By Bridgette Fox and UIS Public Affairs Reporting
When shortform video platform TikTok shut down service in early January, the move surprised some Illinois politicians who use the app to educate, reach constituents and follow trends.
Others had abandoned the app months before it was shut down for less than 24 hours.
TikTok, a social media app owned by China-based company ByteDance, has been the center of political controversy since 2019 when a federal probe into its ownership began. In 2022, a report from Buzzfeed News showed ByteDance employees based in China were able to access American users’ data.
In early 2024, former President Joe Biden signed the bill that would force TikTok to either sell to a U.S. company or be banned in the U.S. TikTok’s lawyers claimed the government was infringing on its users’ First Amendment right to freedom of speech. However, in January, the U.S. Supreme Court ruled unanimously in favor of upholding the law.
Of the 118 members of the Illinois House, 20 had verifiable, nonprivate TikTok accounts they used personally or as representatives as of Jan. 22. There were nine verifiable accounts found for state Senators.
Only 10 of the 20 accounts had any posts, and only seven of those accounts posted within the last three months.
Rep. Edgar Gonzalez Jr., D-Chi-
cago, is an active TikTok user. The 28-year-old said he uses the app to educate people and keep up with local news and businesses.
“I had other colleagues say ‘Oh, I saw this restaurant in your neighborhood, how is it?’ ” Gonzalez said. “I can just talk about it, and I ask them about other restaurants or businesses in their districts, so it (a potential ban) sucks because a lot of people use it for discovering new things.”
Gonzalez and other representatives also worried TikTok is a national security threat.
“Data has become its own currency and its own weapon,” Gonzalez said. “But I think that in the same way that we worry about foreign countries trying to harvest that data, we should also worry about the folks in the states.”
In 2022, Buzzfeed News reported Chinese-based employees at ByteDance had accessed American users’ data. That same year, company officials admitted in leaked emails to spying on the author of that story in an attempt to identify her sources, according to Forbes.
Rep. Patrick Sheehan, R-Lemont, posted his only two videos to TikTok in January. He said he likes comedy, recipe and workout videos, and he wants to reach out to his constituents.
“My kids are on the platform, and they kept saying ‘Hey, you know, RFK Jr. is on the platform, and we see his videos everywhere. Now President (Donald) Trump’s on the platform, he’s everywhere, Joe
Biden’s everywhere,” Sheehan said. “So, I got kind of interested in seeing how they were reaching out to a whole different type of audience, so I decided to get on.”
Sheehan said he wasn’t concerned about using TikTok right now, despite the national security concerns.
“I’m not too worried about it, I’m very hopeful that this whole situation is going to be resolved,” Sheehan said. “I really feel like a lot of, you know, stakeholders that are at the table want to make this work—I’m just really hopeful that it’s just a matter of time and negotiating a number.”
The app was initially required to be sold by Jan. 19 by an approved buyer or be banned in the U.S. Trump extended the deadline for this enforcement by 75 days.
Rep. Barbara Hernandez, D-Aurora, who last posted on Jan. 15, said she’s weighing the value of using TikTok if it gets bought by a company like Meta.
“Like every bill, I would like to learn more about the transaction. What is it going to entail, who’s actually involved and being able to figure that out first,” Hernandez said. “But I don’t know. I guess that’s my recent conflict—I don’t know what I’m going to be able to do and not do on a social media platform.”
Rep. Dave Vella, D-Rockford, who last posted to TikTok in 2022, said the app’s security risks and the low reach to constituents made his
Ice cream—yes, ice cream—for breakfast!
On Saturday, Feb. 1, franchise owners of Kimmer’s Ice Cream—Kimberly Yates (second from the right) and Isaac Yates (second from the left)—held their seventh consecutive “Ice Cream for Breakfast” event at the Elmhurst location at 110 W. Park Ave. The store manager, Margaret Belcher (far right), and staff member Grace Garvey (far left), worked during the shop’s special event, opening early at 9 a.m., three hours earlier than usual. This event was designed for Elmhurst residents to come together and create new memories, adding a twist to a typical Saturday morning by serving their homemade ice cream (including breakfast flavors) during the cheerful winter season.
Community calendar
Recurring on Sundays
Elmhurst Model Railroad Club Sunday open house. From 1-4 p.m. every Sunday at the Elmhurst Model Railroad Club, 111 E. First St., and visit the club’s three operating model railroad layouts. For more information, call 630530-9584 or email: emrrc@comcast.net.
Recurring monthly
Memory care support group. Held on the first Wednesday of every month at the Adult Christian Day Center, Epiphany Church, 314 W. Vallette, Elmhurst and at St. Paul Church, 545 S. Ardmore, Villa Park, from 10:30-11:30 a.m., this is a free support group for those caring for someone with Alzheimer’s or dementia. The group alternates months between Epiphany Church and St. Paul Church. Call or text Jamie to RSVP at 312-543-5158 or email: AdultChristianCenterElmhurst@gmail.com for more information.
Saturday, Feb. 8
Artist Talk and Exhibition walk-through: Sustenance and Land. From 1-2:30 p.m. presented by the Elmhurst Art Museum, 150 S. Cottage Hill Ave., listen to the current exhibition artists discuss their artworks addressing human relationships to the land, exploring a broad spectrum of themes including nutrition, cultural relationship to food, scientific investigation, spirit, history and the future. Price: $18 for adults, $15 for seniors, $10 for students 18-and-over with a school ID, $5 for children ages 5-17, and free for members and children under 5. For more information, call 630-8340202 or visit: https://elmhurstartmuseum.org/.
Sunday, Feb. 9
“Snapshots: Elmhurst Now and Then” gallery talk. Starting at noon and presented by the Elmhurst History Museum, 120 E. Park Ave., join Sarah Cox, museum curator of exhibits, for an exclusive guided tour of the museum’s new exhibit, Snapshots: Elmhurst Now and Then. The gallery talk includes an overview of how the urban landscape of Elmhurst has transformed since its establishment as a village in 1882. View digitally enhanced photographs of iconic Elmhurst buildings, street views, parks, and transportation routes while learning more. Free for members; $8 for nonmembers. For more information, call 630-8331457 or visit: www.elmhursthistory.org.
Sunday, Feb. 9
SHE Single Mothers Support Group. Starting at 12:15 p.m. at Elmhurst Christian Reformed Church, 149 W. Brush Hill Road. Join us as we welcome Pastor Jeff Klein with a “Good News” message. We offer a complimentary lunch for all attendees, free child care (for children up to age 12), and fellowship with other single mothers. RSVP at elmhurstcrc.org/she.
Sunday, Feb. 16
Community education series: Understanding religious of the world and why we don’t need the entire world to be Christian. From 1-2 p.m. presented by Elmhurst Presbyterian Church, 367 S. Spring Road, connect, learn, and take part in building a more inclusive community. Free. For more information, call 630-8347750 or visit: https://elmhurstchurch.org.
Thursday, Feb. 20
Artist talk with Jeanine Hill-Soldner. From 7-9 p.m. at Elmhurst Art Museum, 150 Cottage Hill Ave., representational artist, Jeanine Hill-Soldner will give an artist talk at the Elmhurst Artists’ Guild meeting in February. The event is free and open to the public. For more information, visit: www.elmhurstartistsguild.org.
Friday, Feb. 21 through March 2 Restaurant Week. Recurring daily at
the Elmhurst City Centre, don’t miss out on Restaurant Week. It’s your chance to discover exciting new dishes and savor exclusive specials at your favorite restaurants. Treat yourself to a culinary adventure. For more information, visit elmhurstcitycentre.com.
Now through Feb. 28
Organic seedlings sale at First Congregational UCC. It’s never too early to start thinking about your spring garden. The First Congregational United Church of Christ’s 11th annual Organic Seedlings Sale is under way. Preorders for certified organic vegetable, herb and annual flower seedlings will be taken through Feb. 28. (Note the early deadline.) Seedlings can be ordered by going to the church’s website: https://elmhurstucc.org/store. Seedlings will be available for pick up at the church’s Green Garden Fair from 9 a.m. to noon on Saturday, May 10. The church is located at 235 S. Kenilworth Ave. in Elmhurst.
Now through April 15
Apply for AAUW Scholarships. The Elmhurst Branch of the American Association of the University Women (AAUW) is now accepting applications for three $4,500 scholarships for women in need of financial assistance to continue their education at the undergraduate or graduate level. The deadline to apply is April 15. For a scholarship application and/ or more information, visit www.aauwelmhurst. org. Call 630-207-4851 after your application is submitted to confirm receipt.
Elmhurst Garden Club 2025 Scholarship applications are available online
The mission of the Elmhurst Garden Club (EGC) is to encourage the advancement of, and stimulate and interest in horticulture through education; to aid in the protection of the environment; to provide and outlet for creative expression; and to encourage civic beautification.
The EGC Scholarship program, established in 1999, has awarded over $230,000 to college students pursuing degrees in the fields of horticulture, botany, landscape design, conservation, agriculture, environmental studies and related fields of study. Additionally, since 2014, Exploratory/Experiential scholarships have been awarded to York High School students to explore areas of interest in agriculture, botany, climate change, conservation, park management, sustainability, the environment, and related fields of interest in a formalized setting: a summer workshop, camp, experiential program, internship or college course. This award is meant to give students a hands-on experience.
The 2025 scholarship applications are available online at the club’s website— elmhurstgardenclub.org. The filing deadline for high school students is May 1. The filing deadline for college/ university students is June 1.
The EGC Scholarship recipients of 2024 will be attending the club’s “Meet the Scholars” meeting on Monday, March 3. Each recipient will present a short program about their education, research, activities and career plans related to their major areas of study.
These scholarships are funded by proceeds from the Elmhurst Garden Club Garden Walk and Boutique Faire held annually on the second Sunday of July. EGC Scholarship recipients for 2025 will be announced shortly following the EGC Garden Walk & Boutique Faire on Sunday, July 13.
The EGC was founded in 1926. The club currently has 142 members. Meetings are held on the first Monday of each month at the Elmhurst Wilder Mansion, 211 S. Prospect, beginning at 10 a.m., followed by a formal program at 11:15 a.m., which is free and open to the public. For more information, visit the club’s website at elmhurstgardenclub.org.
IVAN FIGUEROA PHOTO Elmhurst Independent
Tickets available for GreenMan Theatre’s ‘The Ghost with the Most…Murders!’
The cast of talented thespians at Elmhurst’s GreenMan Theatre Troupe have come together to play their otherworldly roles in the theatre’s annual murder mystery dinner, “The Ghost with the Most… Murders!” The zany, humorous murder mystery comedy will run Feb. 14-15 and Feb. 21-23, at Angelo’s Ristorante in Elmhurst.
In “The Ghost with the Most… Murders!,” written and directed by Justin Vidovic, a murderer is
Presentations will take place Feb. 14-15 and Feb. 21-23
on the loose…but so is the juice! And that must mean that somebody has said his name three times. But who? Character Lillia’s friends are all ghosts, so when she finds out they may have been murdered, she’s on the case. But when the murderer strikes again, Lillia realizes that she’s in over her head and that maybe Buggle Shoes, the ghost with the most, is the only one who can save her.
Ten area actors will be show -
cased in “The Ghost with the Most…Murders!” including Cayley Gaffney (Mt. Zion, Illinois) and Henley Adrimar-Coppola (Elgin).
Gaffney plays Buggle Shoes, a vulgar and erratic ghost who attended Juilliard, is a graduate of Harvard Business School and lived through the Black Plague. Adrimar-Coppola has the role of Seelia, an avant-garde artist from New York City who is struggling with being bored in Connecticut.
And it gets better! Lakeside’s own Angela Villegas will proudly serve as the 2025 Chairman of the Board. Angela is an Elmhurst resident, making her mark in our community through participation with several local organizations and working on charitable events. Angela is Vice President, Retail Branch Liaison at Lakeside, and is based at our Elmhurst branch.
Congratulations to Jennifer and Angela and best wishes for a successful 2025!
In a role unlike any other she has played, Gaffney said “Buggle Shoes is high energy and has frequent and extreme mood swings. It takes a lot of energy both physically and mentally to play my character.”
“Seelia is a woman who has not been listened to, not seen,” said Adrimar-Coppola. “When she meets a man who is creepy and wacky and strange like her it’s the only time she feels seen. In the play, she takes on her feminine strengths and becomes her own person – realizing all her experiences have shaped her into who she is now.”
As rehearsals have progressed, “The cast’s chemistry is great,” Gaffney said. “It’s like each person was made for their parts.”
Adrimar-Coppola agreed: “It’s a communal space where everybody plays off each other, with a lot of improv and inside jokes already.”
“The Ghost with the Most…
Murders!” will be performed at Angelo’s Ristorante at 247 N. York Road in Elmhurst. The performances of Feb. 14, 15, 21 and 22 begin at 7 p.m. The Feb. 23 performance will begin at 6 p.m.
Tickets are $57 and include the show and an Italian dinner. There will be a cash bar and a chance to mingle with the cast begin an hour before curtain. There is ample free parking available, but seating is limited.
Tickets for the event MUST be purchased in advance—and at least three to four days prior to each performance. No tickets will be available for sale at the door. Please visit https://ticketpeak.co/GMTT/events to purchase tickets online. You may call 630-464-2646 to leave a voicemail, if you have questions.
The dinner production is a popular event, and performances sell out quickly. For more information, visit www.greenmantheatre.org.
Montini Catholic students celebrate Catholic Schools Week
Montini Catholic High School celebrated the beginning of Catholic Schools Week with a special Mass on Jan. 27. Celebrating the Mass with the students this year was Father Shaun Cieslik from St. Mary of Gostyn in Downers Grove. National Catholic Schools Week, which was established in 1974, is the annual celebration of Catholic education in the United States. It starts on the last Sunday in January and runs all week, which in 2025 was from Jan. 26 through Feb. 1. Every year, the theme encompasses the core products and values that can be found in Catholic schools across the country. Through various events, schools focus on the value Catholic education provides to young people and its contributions to our church, our communities and our nation. Pictured from left to right are Father Cieslik, senior Liliana Cruz of Elmhurst and junior Jonny Kosinski.
SUBMITTED PHOTO Elmhurst Independent
Obituary
THADDEUS (TED)
JOHN SOLTYS, SR., 95
Thaddeus (Ted)
John Soltys, Sr., 95, long-time resident of Elmhurst, Illinois, passed away peacefully on January 14, 2025, surrounded by his loving family, in Dunedin, Florida. He was predeceased by his parents, John and Mary, and his 5 sisters: Bernice Szydlowski, Stephanie Jarosz, Jean Thomas, Helen Norris, and Sophie Delster.
Ted was born in Chicago, Illinois on September 16, 1929 to Polish parents John and Mary Soltys (nee Staniszewski). He was the couple’s only son. Ted attended grammar school and served as an altar boy at St. Hyacinth Parish and, as he entered the world at the onset of the Great Depression, he fondly recalled stories of walking alone as a young boy through darkened alleys before sunrise to serve the 5 a.m. Mass, wherein a kind elderly lady befriended him and, thereafter, served him a warm breakfast every day en route back home from the church in Chicago’s Avondale neighborhood. St. Hyacinth, home to numerous Polish immigrants, was designated a minor basilica by Pope John Paul II in 2003 and, later the same year, designated a basilica of the Archdiocese of Chicago.
Ted wove a colorful tapestry of everyone he met along life’s path, including a racing pigeon enthusiast who lived next door to him as a child. This childhood neighbor’s pastime, thanks to his close proximity, fostered in Ted a love of racing pigeons at an early age, as the former gifted Ted with a pigeon of his very own to care for.
Unlike the pigeons one might feed from a park bench, racing pigeons enjoy both a noble heritage and historic pedigree, as they were enlisted to deliver life-saving messenger service in World Wars I and II. The avian sport, deeply revered in Poland and many other countries throughout the world, made its way to the United States circa 1875. Pigeon racing involves releasing meticulously trained homing pigeons a measured distance while clocking the travel time. Intricate clocks were employed to calibrate race time and compare the results to other racers. Ted cultivated a passion for the hobby/sport and, during his active pigeon racing years, he managed to care for, breed and train up to 200 of these competitive flyers at a time. He had a knack for selecting race-winning homing pigeons and procured a long line of winning birds over the many years during which he honed his craft.
Ted attended Carl Schurz High School and Wright Junior College, before proudly serving his country in the United States Air Force during the Korean War, which found him stationed at Manston Air Force Base. On June 6, 1958, Ted met Janet Miller, his future wife of 65 1/2 years, at a dance at the Holiday Ballroom in Chicago. He asked Jan if she wanted to dance the Cha-Cha and the two were married a year later on June
6, 1959. Ever the “romantic”, Ted proposed to Jan at a drive-in movie screening of Creature From the Black Lagoon, a cinematic choice that, years later, generated perplexed questions from his kids who inquired, “Of all choices…why, dad, did you pick THAT movie?!” Little did Ted and Jan know that their extended family and grandchildren would gather 50 years later at Elmhurst’s York Theatre for a special 50th Anniversary commemorative private screening of Creature From the Black Lagoon, with popcorn and nostalgia recreating the moment Jan said “Yes!”
Ted initially worked in printing as a lithographer, in Chicago, until moving to Elmhurst, whereupon he launched his budding career as a real estate broker. He joined L.W. Reedy Real Estate in 1975, before transitioning to Re/Max in 1979. Ted lived to serve his clients and derived great pleasure in finding them their respective homes. In 1982, Ted was designated the Top Producer in Northern Illinois, among many honors and recognitions he received over a decades-long career that found him happily working until the age of 85. Ted loved people from all walks of life and especially lived to serve others. He served as President of the Kiwanis Club of Elmhurst, of which he was a loyal member and enjoyed attending regular meetings from 1977 until July, 2024, when he moved out of the town he so loved. Carrying the iconic, oversized American flag each year as he marched with fellow Kiwanians, Ted delighted in recognizing familiar faces along the Elmhurst parade route, which always prompted him to stop for those friends and family he knew, dip the majestic flag, and proudly honor the Red, White & Blue and the country he served. He loved flipping pancakes each year and serving breakfast to the greater Elmhurst community who attended the annual Kiwanis Pancake Day, which he faithfully attended for decades. Whether energetically volunteering time to sell Kiwanis Peanuts on Peanut Day, volunteering to serve meals at DuPage P.A.D.S., or attending his children’s and grandchildren’s myriad of extracurricular activities and sporting events, Ted was a devoted husband, son and a most loving and present father/grandfather/great-grandfather, who loved to give back to his community.
In addition to loving his work and his pigeon flying, Ted treasured every opportunity to golf a foursome with his sons, hit a bucket of balls with his grandkids, birdwatch with Jan, and help to serve as the de facto neighborhood “triage” for any injured bird that neighbors would bring to his door. One could often find him catching a movie and popcorn at Elmhurst’s York Theatre, attending live theatrical performances with Jan, enjoying post-church Sunday breakfast with friends & family and, having grown up on Chicago’s South Side, the occasional White Sox game at Comiskey Park. He loved camping with his family, countless summers at Lake Summerset (his favorite “home-away-from-home”), accom-
Page 16
St. Timothy Evangelical Lutheran Church
547 N. Main St., Lombard, IL 60148 630-627-2435
Sunday Worship at 10:15 am Sunday School & Bible Study 9 am
Lent and Easter Services at 7 p.m.
“The Crucial Hours”
Second Lenten Service March 9, 2022
Ladies Bible Fellowship Mondays at 6:30 pm Wednesday Service at 7pm
Rev. David Ernest “Satan Has Asked to Sift All of You” Jerusalem Lutheran, Morton Grove Matthew 27:15-26
Adult Bible Study Wednesdays after Service Saturday, February 22, Game Night at 4 pm
Third Lenten Service March 16, 2022
Everyone is Welcome!
Rev. Paul Spaude “What to Remember When Your are St. Matthews, Niles Seized with Remorse” Matthew 27:3-4
All services are live streamed. Watch on our website or on Facebook. sainttimothy.org
Fourth Lenten Service March 23, 2022
Rev. Jonathan Bergemann “I Will Keep the Passover”
779 S. York Street Elmhurst, IL 630-834 -6700 www.visitationparish.org
Weekend Masses: Saturday: 4 PM (Vigil) Sunday: 7:30, 9:30 & 11:30 AM and 6 PM
Daily Masses: Monday—Friday: 6:15 and 8:15 AM Saturday: 8:15 AM
Confessions: Saturday: 3-3:45PM
Adoration:
Available in Our Lady Mother of the Eucharist Chapel 24/7
Sport S
York girls bowling team dominant in Hinsdale South tournament win
Lewandowski second, Dukes place six in top 9
By Mike Miazga CORRESPONDENT
The York girls bowling team enjoyed success in several recent tournaments. The Dukes won the Hinsdale South Ed Puck-Bob Lichter Hornet invitational in dominating fashion. York won with a total sixgame pinfall of 6,123. Morton was a distant second at 5,603 and host Hinsdale South was miles away in third at 4,840.
Ava Lewandowski finished second individually with an 1,193 series, which included high games of
236 (Game 1), 221 (Game 6), 200 (Game 2) and 199 (Game 5). Ella Shea was third with a 1,099 series, which included high games of 193, 192 and 186. Cailyn Ziola was fourth with a 1,031 series with high games of 192 and 181 (twice). Skylar Johnson was seventh with a series of 946, which included a high game of 211. Lindsay Valdivia was eighth with a 930 series, which included games high games of 172 and 171 (twice). Anna Copher was ninth with a 924 series, which included high games of 192 (Game 6) and 190 (Game 5).
At the Hinsdale Central invitational, the Dukes finished third as a team with a 5,017 series for six
York’s Allen rolls 1,059 series at boys bowling state finals
Timothy Christian, ICCP bowlers compete at Glenbard East regional
By Mike Miazga
CORRESPONDENT
York senior Nick Allen competed in the recent IHSA boys state bowling finals held at St. Clair Bowl in downstate O’Fallon. Allen finished 116th in the state after rolling a 1,059 series on the first day. Allen had games of 210, 179 and 188 before the lunch break for a 577 series and then rolled a 482 series to finish out the day with high games of 175 and 172. Allen did not qualify for the second day of competition. Allen advanced to the state finals by taking sixth overall at the Naperville Central, contested at Lisle Lanes.
Allen finished with a pinfall of 1,247, which included games of 214, 150, 198, 233, 204 and 248. Allen finished especially strong after the lunch break, logging a 685 three-game series. Allen’s senior teammate Marco Giorno finished 57th at Naperville Central and did not advance to the state finals. Giorno bowled a 1,057 series with high games of 200, 192, 191 and 180.
Earlier, the three Elmhurst high schools were in action at the Glenbard East regional held at Bowlero in Glendale Heights. York took fifth as a team with a 5,704 total pinfall, but did not advance as a team to the sectional round, missing that marker by one place.
Giorno finished 13th individually with a 1,245 series, while Allen was 17th with a 1,200 series. Both finished in the top 10 scoring of individuals not on sectional-qualifying teams and thus earned a berth at Naperville Central.
Giorno had games of 202, 208, 224, 188, 212 and 211 in a highly consistent performance, while Allen had high games of 223, 212, 206, 201 and 194.
York junior Tim Blass finished with a 1,090 series, which included high games of 195, 193, 191, 187 and 177. Senior Wade Klinger had a 1,086 series with high games of 222, 200, 190 and 180. Senior Trevor Procajlo rolled a 236 high game at the regional, while junior Jack Wahr had high games of 198 and 173.
Timothy Christian finished ninth at Glendale Heights with a total pinfall of 4,848. Senior Alex Miller led the way with a 1,041 series, which included high games of 204, 203, 189 and 172. Senior Jacob Lanenga had a 973 with high games of 197 and 196. Sophomore Mike Grandolfo had high games of 206 and 175. Senior Kendall O’Quinn rolled a high game of 182, while senior Ryan McKenzie had a high game of 172.
IC Catholic Prep was 12th in the regional field with a 4,260. Senior Luke Beckman finished with a 1,074 series with high games of 238 and 190. Senior Peter Dolan had a 955 series with high games of 246 and 176. Senior Ben Erickson had an 883 series with high games of 195 and 173. Sophomore Tommy Tyrell had high games of 212 and 163.
games. Morton won the team title at 5,241 and Oak Lawn Richards was second at 5,093. Lewandowski finished third individually with a 1,099 series, which included high games of 214, 202 and 183. Her 214 game tied for the third highest at the tournament. Shea took fourth with a 1,060 series, which included high games of 210, 196 and 190. Shea’s 210 tied for the seventh-highest score in the field. Ziola was seventh with a 1,019 series, which included high games of 191, 185 and 184. Valdivia was 22nd with a 912 series with a 181 high game. Copher finished 28th with an
873 series. Her 194 high game was the 15th-highest in the tournament.
The Dukes also took eighth at the 22-team Plainfield South Cougar invite with a 5,074 total pinfall. Vadivia was 28th in the 117-bowler field with a 1,074 series with high games of 201, 186 and 185. Valdivia had a 566 series after the lunch break. Lewandowski took 30th at 1,069 with high games of 226 and 182. She rolled a 582 series before the lunch break.
Shea was 33rd with a 1,064 series, which included high games of 221 and 195. Shea rolled a 561 series af-
ter the lunch break. Johnson finished at 972 with a 200 high game. Copher had a 176 high game and Ziola had a 161 high game. York’s JV took seventh at Plainfield South with a 4,002 pinfall. Lillie Samuelian was 21st with an 889 series (197 high game). Maddy Kleinberg was 22nd with an 885 series (171 high game).
Shalom Olatunde was 36th with a 768 series (155 high game). Zahra Master was 38th with a 758 series (158 high game) and Damielle Vitulio was 41st with a 702 series (146 high game).
York girls basketball team gaining momentum as postseason nears
Dukes defeat Oak Park-River Forest on senior night; Filosa nears 1,000 career points
By Mike Miazga CORRESPONDENT
The York girls basketball team, coach Brandon Collings noted, is doing what all teams strive for. Playing its best basketball at the right time of the season. The Dukes were 1114 overall and 4-6 in West Suburban Conference Silver Division play through late last week. “We tell the girls we want to play our best basketball the last six, seven, eight games of the season and I think we are doing it,” Colilngs said.
Collings points to an early January game against top-notch Lyons Township as a turning point in the season. “We had started turning a corner against LT, which now is still 24-1,” he said. “We watched film of what we had been doing and the struggles we had especially defensively. We went out against LT and started to prove ourselves against these top teams.”
York trailed by only four points heading into the fourth quarter. “We were playing well,” Collings said. “And then we had three straight possessions where we missed layups and a 3 rimmed out and we lose 63-47. It got away from us.”
York also downed Hinsdale Central 47-37 in another WSC Silver game. “That was a big win,” Collings said. “They had beaten us the first time. We played really well.”
The Dukes lost to Glenbard West 34-31 in WSC Silver play, dropped a 56-34 game to ranked Nazareth Academy at the Kipp Classic shootout and defeated Geneva 53-41 at the Batavia shootout. York also defeated Lake Forest Academy 5243 and lost 26-24 to Downers Grove North in WSC Silver play. York senior Anna Filosa missed the second half of the Nazareth game with an
injury.
Collings pointed out York shot 3-for-14 from the foul line against Downers North. “Downers North is an example of how we are very young,” Collings said. “If you look at the Max Preps (online statistical/scheduling service) strength of schedule algorithm, they have us with the fourth-toughest schedule in the state. It’s like we’re playing really well right now, but we have to find ways to finish out games and win games. Downers North, we came out and missed eight good looks attacking the basket and were 3-for-14 from the line. We are not doing the little things to win games.”
York ran into another state-ranked team in Maine South. The Dukes trailed by six at halftime despite missing starters Kayla Callahan and Olivia Silkaitis due to illness. “We were playing really well. We started three sophomores in that game,” Collings said. “Maine South pushed it to 11 in the third quarter and then it was like, ‘Oh well. We gave it our best shot. We were undermanned.’” But with four minutes left in the game, York took a one-point lead. “And then it goes back to finishing games,” Collings noted. “We have work on getting better at having better possessions at the end of the game. We lost 58-52. We didn’t get good looks at the end and had a couple turnovers.”
However, while some games didn’t result in wins in January, Collings is more than thrilled by what he is seeing. “Again, it’s one of those things where we have this tough schedule and we got beat badly at the beginning of the year—almost 30 points to Waubonsie Valley, a loss to Benet Academy a 30-point loss to Fremd,” Collings said. “We were
getting destroyed by top, elite teams. And now, LT is a close game in the fourth quarter. We can compete with these teams. Maine South, we had a chance to beat them in the fourth and didn’t close it out. We definitely have turned a corner. Now, we have to take this young team and finish games off at the end of the year.”
On senior night at York, the Dukes downed Oak Park-River Forest 5531 in a WSC Silver game where Filosa scored 28 points and fellow senior Gabby Sutter had 14 points. Filosa and Sutter are the two lone seniors on the York roster this season. “We had a great senior night,” Collings said. Through late last week Filosa was 12 points away from 1,000 for her career. The Dukes had their rematch with Lyons Township earlier this week where entrance to the 1,000-point club was on high alert for Filosa, who was averaging 23.8 points during a recent five-game run for the Dukes. She had 26 points against Geneva, 31 against Lake Forest Academy, nine points in the Downers Grove North low-scoring game, 23 against Maine South and the 28 points against Oak Park. Filosa is looking to become the third York player during Collings’ eightyear tenure to eclipse 1,000 career points, joining Mariann Blass and Danielle Dennis in that group.
“Anna is confident and she’s rolling,” Collings said.
Silkaitis is averaging 11.5 points and is York’s leading rebounder, while Briley O’Brien averages six points and three assists. “We are playing 10 girls a game,” Collings said. “We are deep and four of those girls are sophomores getting a lot of minutes. We are playing good bas-
Elmhurst University music
faculty recital on Feb. 7
IC Catholic Prep graduate Leslie headed to Le Moyne
Will play volleyball for Division II school
By Mike Miazga CORRESPONDENT
Recent IC Catholic Prep graduate Bella Leslie wanted to head east for college.
Her landing spot ended up being at NCAA Division II Le Moyne College where the former Knights volleyball and soccer standout will continue her volleyball career at the Syracuse, New York school as a libero.
“All of the schools I was looking at were on the East Coast,” Leslie told the Independent last week. “I visited Le Moyne and really liked it. It reminded me of high school because it was a small school, and in a smaller school you will know a lot more faces than if I would have gone to a bigger school. The campus there is really pretty. It sits on a big hill and the scenery around it is great. Everything is pretty close together. They have very nice facilities. The volleyball program has good workout facilities and a nice locker room. I liked how modern it was.”
State Rep. Deuter to host constituent events, including launch of speaker series
This Friday, Feb. 7, at 7:30 p.m., Elmhurst University’s Music Department will present acclaimed faculty member Andrea DiOrio in a clarinet recital. Ms. DiOrio will be accompanied by Jeffrey Panko on piano, Francois Henkins on violin, and Amali Premawardhana on cello, as she performs works by Brahms, Cage, Khachaturian, Messiaen, and Ran. This recital is open to the public at no charge. This faculty recital will be performed in the Buik Recital Hall inside the Irion Hall Music Building on the Elmhurst University campus. Professor DiOrio is one of Chicago’s most sought after clarinetists. She has performed in over 20 operas with the Lyric Opera Orchestra. She has also performed with the Grant Park Orchestra, Quad City Symphony, Chicago Sinfonietta, Chicago Opera Theater, Elgin Symphony Orchestra, Ravinia Festival Orchestra, Chicago Philharmonic, Lake Forest Symphony, Illinois Philharmonic Orchestra, South Bend Symphony Orchestra, Las Vegas Philharmonic, da Coneto Opera Orchestra, Elmhurst Symphony Orchestra, and the ChampaignUrbana Symphony. Ms. DiOrio earned a master’s degree in performance from Northwestern University and a bachelor’s in performance, with honors, from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign. The Elmhurst University Music Department is proud to have Ms. DiOrio on staff as a Professor of Clarinet and is pleased to present this concert to the public at no cost. For more information, a map of the campus or to learn more about future performances, visit www.elmhurst.edu/music. SUBMITTED
I feel like I would be so bored without it because it has been such a big
Leslie said she has plenty of memories from IC Catholic Prep’s coach Nancy Kerrigan’s program.
“I loved playing there,” she said. “I probably enjoyed school volleyball more than club because I love my team and the coaching staff was very supportive on and off the court. It made it a really good environment to be in. Coach (Kerrigan) was great. I have known her for a while. When I was little, I did all the little kids camps, and her daughter was in my brother’s grade at IC.”
Leslie said she will miss plenty about IC Catholic Prep. “I will miss how close knit of a community it was,” she said. “I knew everybody at the school. It will be weird going on campus and not knowing all the faces. I’ll miss those close connections with the coaches and teachers. It will be weird for the first year or so.”
“ I’m really excited to be
State Rep. Marti Deuter
Less than a month into her first term, state Rep. Marti Deuter, D-Elmhurst, has established the framework to facilitate ongoing communication with constituents and is inviting residents to a series of upcoming events.
from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Services include driver’s license and state ID updates, Real ID applications and vehicle stickers. Appointments are required. Call Glowiak’s office at 630-7853177 to schedule.
On Friday, Feb. 28, from 10 a.m. to noon, Deuter is hosting satellite office hours in the lobby of the Elmhurst Public Library. Walk-ins are welcome.
cal decisions, economic growth and quality of life within the state and district.
Look for future quarterly Speaker Series topics to include public transit, pensions and economic development.
Additionally, follow Deuter on Instagram at @repmartideuter and on Facebook at State Representative Marti Deuter.
“Residents should be able to count on their elected representatives to be accessible, to provide information and to fully hear the concerns of the people they represent,” Deuter said. “More information and engagement lead to better decisions.”
“Constituents want two-way communication they can count on. I am committed to being an active representative by engaging with constituents through satellite office hours at public libraries, hosting direct service events and bringing in experts to present on the issues crucial to our communities in District 45.”
– Bella Leslie
To supplement direct service events and constituent office hours, Deuter will also be hosting a Speaker Series with presentations by subject area experts to provide clear information on the issues affecting fis-
Deuter’s district includes portions of Elmhurst, Oak Brook, Oakbrook Terrace, Hinsdale, Downers Grove, Clarendon Hills, Westmont, Villa Park, Bensenville, Lombard and Darien.
Nearly 1,000 counterfeit driver’s licenses confiscated at O’Hare international mail facility between Jan.
21-26
nately, these students put themselves at great risk when purchasing these fake documents.
Leslie plans on studying nursing at Le Moyne. “They have a good nursing program,” she said. “As far as what kind of a nurse I want to be, I’m not quite sure yet.”
By Mike Miazga CORRESPONDENT
Leslie played volleyball and girls soccer at IC Catholic Prep all four years. She was a center-midfielder on the Knights soccer team.
Martinelli hits 40-win mark for
Leslie’s volleyball journey started in the fifth grade, the first year she could play the sport at IC Grade School. She’s been playing club volleyball since seventh grade, most recently with the Chicago Elite group that practices out of Scores in Willow Springs and Montini High School in Lombard.
York wrestling coach Nick Metcalf amped up the toughness in his team’s regular season schedule.
While the Dukes stood at 12-12 through their first 24 dual matches (2-3 in West Suburban Conference Silver Division action), Metcalf has seen plenty of positives. “This season has been the toughest schedule we have had in school history,” he explained.
“I’m really excited to be able to play volleyball in college,” she said. “It gives me something to do.
Leslie said pandemic life hasn’t been overly exciting, though her club volleyball team has started practicing again. “We have been practicing two or three times a week,” she said. “We are going to be starting tournaments again. Before that I haven’t been doing anything because senior soccer season and the club volleyball season were cancelled. We were supposed to go to a few club volleyball qualifiers in Grand Rapids and Louisville. This summer, we have some tournaments planned over the next few weekends. They are little tournaments with all of the local clubs. Nothing large and really local. Other than that, I have been trying to work out a lot and stay in shape. I’ve been running a lot, so I got into that. I try and run every day.”
Three events are planned in February. On Saturday, Feb. 22, Deuter is hosting a constituent open house from 10 a.m.-1 p.m. at the District 45 office located at 1 S. Cass Ave., Suite 104, in Westmont.
On Wednesday, Feb. 26, Deuter is teaming up with state Sen. Suzy Glowiak Hilton, D-Western Springs, to host a mobile Secretary of State Department of Motor Vehicles event,
York wrestlers navigating tough regular season schedule
at 146 pounds. Junior Frank Nitti is 34-4 at 144 pounds, while Jackson Hanselman is 37-7 at 150 pounds. Senior Mike Grazzini is 24-9 at 215 pounds.
been cancelled due to the pandemic. “I will probably leave Aug. 10-11 because it’s a far drive,” she said. “We had Zoom call with the team recently and they said they should have an answer about our season in the next 7-10 days. They talked about three scenarios and what could happen like if we start the season and someone gets sick and we have to stop and go. That’s one of the reasons why they are looking at moving the season to the spring. Right now the plan is to have a season, but we won’t know until the next 7-10 days.”
Dukes
U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officers at the International Mail Facility at O’Hare International Airport confiscated 984 counterfeit driver’s licenses from Jan. 21-Jan. 26.
As the spring semester starts at many colleges, CBP has seen an uptick in these counterfeit documents.
Officers inspecting packages found these IDs concealed within laptop chargers, inside plastic mirrors, and within necklace/jewelry boxes.
“Counterfeit driver’s licenses are used by young adults who have not yet reached the legal drinking age,” said LaFonda D. Sutton-Burke, director, field operations, Chicago Field Office. “CBP’s interception of these IDs significantly reduces the chances for alcohol to be purchased by underage individuals and hopefully reduces the consequences of their actions, including deadly accidents.”
tition out there. At this point in the season, I am very happy with all our athletes, from the freshman level to our varsity.”
Counterfeit documents are fake documents that have the appearance of legal documentation but are not issued by a legitimate organization or government agency and are not recognized in the United States as official travel or identification instruments. Counterfeit documents, such as these driver’s licenses, can be used as a means for college students who have not yet turned the age of 21, to enter a bar or business that sells and serves alcohol. Unfortu-
Only two companies have authorization by the U.S. Department of State to print international driver’s licenses in the United States: The American Automobile Association (AAA) or American Automobile Touring Alliance (AATA). The IDs were deemed counterfeit based upon the lack of fine line detail, and exhib-
See COUNTERFEIT, Page 16
“This year we went the tournament route instead of having more team duals. By doing this, we have allowed our top wrestlers the chance for quality matches, no wasted forfeit wins and the chance to wrestle exactly 45 matches before the IHSA state series.” York scheduled tournaments this year at Barrington Prospect, Granite City, Sycamore and Geneseo.
Leslie said she is scheduled to report to Le Moyne in the Aug. 1215 timeframe, but noted preseason volleyball activities already have
• Stopka (Continued from page 18)
They lost to West Chicago on think an own goal in the last five minutes. That was against the state champs in the sectional finals. That’s a hell of a season if you ask me.”
“Over the last few weeks, we have endured the cold weather, overcome the sickness season that happens usually in mid-January and have continued to stay the course,” Metcalf said earlier last week. “With about two weeks left until the IHSA regionals, our focus will be to stay healthy, make the adjustments needed and mentally prepare for the first match at our regional.”
Metcalf added the Dukes have no plans to slow down in the hard work department heading into the most important portion of the season.
huge rah-rah person. I’m a little bit more of an individual players’ coach. I will pull kids to the side at practice and games and teach them.”
• Basketball
ketball right now.”
But if all systems are a go, Leslie can’t wait to take her skills as a libero to the next level with the Dolphins. “I feel like being a libero you have to be really quick and that is typically what I am good at. I have really good reaction time,” she said. “I like diving on the floor and saving balls. It’s a really good feeling when you make a save. The position fits my personality, too. You have to be the loudest one on the court. I have a loud personality. You have to be pretty loud if you want to be a libero. I think I match that description.”
Metcalf also had high praise for his coaching staff. “I am even more grateful for my assistant coaches, Coach Helton, Coach Nudera, Coach Jones, Coach Enright and Coach Price for never skipping a beat and impacting York wrestling from the ground up.”
The Dukes open Class 3A postseason action Saturday at the Addison Trail regional. The field includes host Addison Trail, Chicago Crane Medical Prep, Elk Grove, Leyden, Proviso West, Proviso East and Oak Park-River Forest.
ble and transparent and communicate with everybody.”
Senior Mondo Martinelli leads the way for the Dukes with a 40-4 mark
“We will continue to put in the hard work when nobody is looking, we will continue to never cut any corners or look for the easy path,” he said. “This is what separates us from all the other wrestling compe-
(Continued from page 14)
In addition to the LT game earlier this week at home, the Dukes have road games against Stevenson in Lincolnshire tonight and Proviso West in Hillside Friday. York plays the corresponding place-finisher in the WSC Gold Division on the road Tuesday, Feb. 11 in the annual WSC crossover series.
York is part of the Class 4A
Stopka will teach Spanish at York. He taught Spanish and one math class at St. Pat’s. “My philosophy is I am more of a players’ coach,” he said. “I have been a big Liverpool soccer supporter ever since 2015 when Jurgen Klopp came over and he’s known as a players’ coach. He’s kind of my coaching idol. I want to related to the players and form bonds with them. am more light-hearted and smiling. I like to have fun and joke with the kids. The goal is understanding where each player can be successful and the provide the best way possible to convey the knowledge they need at the position they play. I am not big
Stopka noted York has been doing conditioning drills and said the plan as of earlier last week was to start summer camp pending District 205 approval. “I have probably been able to meet 60 to 70 percent of the players so far,” he said. “If it does get approved that would be the start of our contact days with four days a week for three weeks straight. And even though the IHSA waived the blackout dates before the school year, we won’t take advantage of that. I’m pretty sure families have plans to do things before school starts. I’m the new guy and I’m not going to say you can’t go with your family. Go do it and enjoy it. This is a crazy and
The winner of the regional advances a Class 3A dual-team sectional where a berth in the dual-team state finals will be on the line. Individual sectional qualifiers out of Addison head to the Class 3A Conant sectional on Valentine’s Day.
St. Charles East sectional. “It’s more wide open than it has been in years,” Collings said of the postseason field. “We’ll see how we do against LT and Stevenson (this week) and what we can do in regionals. It’s a great group of girls who work hard. I love being around them and love coaching them. We have taken some big steps this year and hopefully we can finish off
strong.”
In terms of York’s schedule, Collings pointed out six of the team’s 14 losses have come against top 10 teams in the state in Class 4A, according to the Max Preps ranking.
York will end up playing seven games against those top 10 teams in the Max Preps ranking, Collings added.
As far as the future, Stopka wants York competing at a high level on a consistent basis. “The short-term goal is to restock and build up the team,” he said. “A large portion of last year’s team was seniors, especially the starting 11. We have to make sure the now juniors are up to the speed of the varsity level and are ready to contribute. We want to keep that pipeline going with the younger groups of players. We want to make sure we are not only competitive, but that we are competing for regionals, sectionals and supersectionals. It starts for me with this junior class that is coming in. We want them ready to go and setting the standard for these other classes that come in so they can also contribute right off
proudly presents
YORK HIGH SCHOOL PLAYER OF THE WEEK
• Obituaries
(Continued from page 13)
panying his children on campouts for the Elmhurst
Indian Guides and Princesses organizations, spending quality time with dear neighbors and friends, frequenting neighborhood garage sales, and, though he demonstrated an unparalleled work ethic and tackled every work day with an unwavering vigor, he gravitated primarily toward life’s simple pleasures. Family ranked as Ted’s top priority and he lived every day immensely grateful that life allowed him to reside in close proximity to his kids, grandkids, and great-grandkids.
As empty-nesters, Ted and Jan enjoyed sharing time between Illinois and Florida, where they amassed a wonderful group of dear friends they would regularly join for line dancing, dinner theatre, shared meals, holiday gatherings, and flea market jaunts, at which they enjoyed meeting new friendly faces each week, while seeking out unique treasures to send to the family.
As their children grew older, Ted and Jan’s travels took them to varied destinations, including a particularly significant trip to Poland to explore his parents’ homeland and connect with distant relatives Ted never had had the opportunity to meet. On June 7, 2017, Ted was humbled to
LEGAL NOTICE
NOTICE
CERTIFICATE NO. 79616 was filed in the office of the County Clerk of DuPage County on January 24, 2025, wherein the business firm of Your Journey NRG, LOCATED AT 201 S. MONTEREY AVE., ELMHURST, IL 60126 was registered; that the true or real name or names of the person or persons owning the business, with their respective post office address(es), is/are as follows: NAME OF PERSON(S) MICHELE COUZENS, HOME ADDRESS 201 S. MONTEREY AVE., ELMHURST, IL 60126. IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand and Official Seal at my office in Wheaton, Illinois, this 24TH day of January, A.D. 2025.
JEAN KACZMAREK Jean Kaczmarek DuPage County Clerk (OFFICIAL SEAL) (Published in The Elmhurst Independent Feb. 6, 13, & 20, 2025) 467417
take part in the 78th Honor Flight Chicago, a special chartered flight, bringing Chicago veterans to Washington D.C. to pay tribute to their service, which marked an especially poignant and impactful experience in Ted’s life.
Ted was an amazing self-taught musician, who played the harmonica by ear and, at age 95, still captivated his neighbors with his musical prowess, as they alternated taking turns entertaining each other, sharing songs and performing their respective favorites to the delight of all those around them. He regularly played “The Helena Polka” and “You are My Sunshine” on his harmonica, all the while alighting the room with his equally befitting joy for life. He loved music and could listen for hours to his repertoire of favorites such as Andrew Lloyd Webber’s “Memory” and Debussy’s “Clair de Lune”.
Ted radiated a habitually jovial sense of humor and loved to make people smile and laugh. He leaves behind a legacy never to be duplicated, but ever to be cherished.
God blessed all who knew Ted with a gift of immeasurable value. How grateful those he crossed paths with are to have known him, enjoyed him, learned from him, laughed with him, and loved him throughout such a wonderfully prolific life. Ted will forever live in the hearts of his family and those he touched along the way.
Ted is survived by his loving wife, Janet; his four children: Ted Jr. (Kristin), Tim (Rose), John (Sally), Jane (Troy); his 14 grandchildren: Alexandria (Mark), Katie, Hannah, Taylor (Erin), Grace, Gabriela (Charlie), Desiré, Gabrielle (Moises), Brittany, Ethan, Alex (Elyse), Bailey, Flanagan, Moleigh; AND his 11 great-grandchildren: Gianna, Timmy, Greg, Andrew, Luke, Paul, Grace, Claire, Bruce, Lilly and Aaron.
A Celebration of Life is scheduled in June, 2025, which would have marked Ted and Jan’s 66th Anniversary.
In lieu of flowers, and in the spirit of Ted’s commitment to service, please consider joining a service or-
ganization and/or giving back to the community and helping others. In light of recent catastrophic damage sustained in North Carolina and Tennessee from historic Hurricane Helene, and to honor Ted’s life’s mission of procuring quality homes for those he served, please consider helping the vast communities of residents rendered homeless and caught completely off-guard by supporting Samaritan’s Purse, a non-profit organization working around the clock to ensure that individuals and families, whose homes and livelihoods were destroyed by unannounced flooding, have a warm, safe dwelling in which to shelter this winter and beyond.
Online donations can be made at samaritanspurse.org or via mail to: Samaritan’s Purse, P.O. Box 3000, Boone, NC 28607.
RUDOLPH E. YEH, 92
What to know about avian flu in wild birds, poultry, and pets in Illinois
The nationwide spread of highly pathogenetic avian influenza, HPAI, also known as avian or bird flu has many in Illinois concerned about livestock, pets, wildlife food safety, and public health.
HPAI is an extremely contagious and frequently deadly respiratory disease for domestic birds; it can kill entire flocks in a matter of days. One strain, H5N1, has spread from wild birds to commercial and backyard poultry flocks as well as mammals, including dairy cattle and pets, raising concerns about how the virus might be mutating.
University of Illinois scientists, experts and Extension specialists weigh in on avian flu’s impact and provide safety recommendations to help prevent further spread.
Bird flu safety precautions
USDA Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service. No cases have been reported in dairy cattle. Bird flu was detected in a wild goose in Tazewell County on Jan. 16 and in a captive hawk in DuPage County on Dec. 27, according to USDA APHIS. Chicago’s Lincoln Park Zoo reported a flamingo and seal both died from HPAI in early January.
How does bird flu infect so many species?
Dr. James Lowe, professor of veterinary clinical medicine, studies viral transmission in farm animals. He said scientists theorize the virus has transferred from birds to mammals from exposure to bird feces. The impact of the virus also varies by species.
Rudolph E. Yeh, age 92, of Elmhurst, born in Tainan, Taiwan; Rudolph emigrated alone at the age 18; he traveled a long journey by ship to succeed in the American dream. He was a leading expert in Finite Elements and paved the way for computer simulation at International Harvestor, JI Case, and finally his own international consulting firm.
He was an Engineering innovator with 8 patents.
Rudolph was the beloved husband of Blanche M., nee Lopez; loving father of Sylvia, Paul (Siobhan) and Lisa (Mark Mansueto) Yeh; cherished grandfather of Olivia Mansueto and Hannah and Emily Yeh; dear brother of Eng-Dong, Eng-Jay, Eng-Kung, Hsiang-Huá, Tsan-Huá, Hui-Huá.
Visitation was held on Tuesday, January 28, and Wednesday, January 29, with funeral service at Gibbons Funeral Home, 134 S. York Road, (½ mile North of Saint Charles Road), Elmhurst. Interment Private.
For funeral information please call 630-832-0018 or www.gibbonsfuneralhome.com.
• Counterfeit
When outdoors: Do not handle sick or dead wildlife. Report five or more sick or dead wild birds in an area to an Illinois Department of Natural Resources District Wildlife Biologist or USDA Wildlife Services at 1-866-487-3297.
Farm workers: Apply biosecurity measures to protect flocks and wear personal protective equipment. The Illinois Department of Public Health has specific guidelines for H5N1. Report suspected infections to the Illinois Department of Agriculture at (217) 782-4944.
Pet owners: Monitor pets and keep them on a leash when outside. Do not let them come into contact with dead wildlife. Avoid raw pet food products.
Waterfowl hunters: Cook game meat to an internal temperature of 165 degrees. Find more information on hunters and bird flu.
Questions? Connect with your local University of Illinois Extension office for more guidance.
Has avian flu been found in Illinois?
A northern Illinois farm lost 3,000 chickens to what is suspected to be avian flu, according to a Jan. 22 news report. Commercial poultry in Indiana and Missouri have tested positive in the past 30 days, according to
(Continued from page 15)
it features that are not consistent with the document type.
According to Sutton-Burke, the reasoning for buying fake IDs has evolved from teenagers trying to get into bars
• Lawmakers
campaign stop posting on it.
to more nefarious activity. “Producing these documents without proper authorization and oversight is illegal, and the story doesn’t stop there. Fake documents are associated with identity theft
(Continued from page 8)
“I know my daughter and her friends love it, so I’d prefer that it stay open but just not owned by China,” Vella said.
While Vella said any company that isn’t based in China would make him less nervous about posting, there are worries about other companies who might buy TikTok.
“The virus interacts with specific sialic acid receptors on the surfaces of cells, and those receptors may be more prevalent in different parts of the body in different groups of animals,” said Dr. Lowe in an interview with the U of I News Bureau.
In some carnivorous mammals, the virus affects the brain and causes neurological problems. In humans, the virus affects the lungs.
Joy O’Keefe, associate professor and Extension wildlife specialist in the department of natural resources and environmental sciences said stressors such as habitat loss create more of a risk of disease spillover and could place humans in closer contact with wild animals. “Healthy wildlife populations are less likely to succumb to pathogens and become sick, so they are less likely to transmit those pathogens to humans,” O’Keefe said.
What is the risk for people?
Should I change what I eat?
The CDC is currently advising that HPAI is a low risk for public health. The spread of avian flu from animals to humans is rare but not impossible. Since 2024, 67 cases of HPAI and one fatality have been reported in humans in the U.S.
Many are farm workers who contracted it from infected dairy cattle or poultry.
and human trafficking, and the revenue generated from their sales is known to fund organized crime. Our officers and specialists are trained to recognize a spectrum of fake identification, and their hard work protects innocent civilians around the world.”
CBP officers coordinate identification findings with CBP’s Fraudulent Document Analysis Unit, Homeland Security Investigations, and other federal partners to combat any illicit activity. Visit CBP’s YouTube channel to learn more about how CBP’s Office of Field Operations secures our nation’s borders.
“I think it makes a lot of sense for it to be sold,” Weaver said. “I have serious concerns about the CCP (Chinese Communist Party) having so much influence on what American citizens see, especially what the next generation sees.”
“I do worry about one conglomerate of four or five people having all that information, all that control, all that ability to decide what is or is not truth or what is and is not dispensable,” Vella said. Rep. Travis Weaver, R-Edwards, hasn’t posted to TikTok since March 2024 because of how little engagement he got there. However, he said his communications team isn’t done using the app. Like most representatives, Weaver is watching for what happens next.
CBP routinely conducts inspection operations on arriving and departing international flights and intercepts narcotics, weapons, currency, prohibited agriculture products, counterfeit goods, and other illicit items at our nation’s 328 international ports of entry.
Business & Service
HANDYMAN BILL
CUSTOM CONCRETE
Residential
Residential
Stamped
Stamped and colored
Classifieds
CLASSIFIED IN-COLUMN ADS cannot be credited or refunded after the ad has been placed. Ads canceled before deadline will be removed from the paper as a service to our customers, but no credit or refund will be issued to your account.
DISCLAIMER NOTICE This publication does not knowingly accept fraudulent or deceptive advertising. Readers are cautioned to thoroughly investigate all ads, especially those asking for money in advance.
Burial Needs
7 CEMETERY PLOTS Willing to sell as a group or individually. Located at Roselawn Memory Gardens 3045 WI-67, Lake Geneva, WI 53147. This is a private sale. Contact Randy, the seller at randy@slpublishers.com.
on race, color, religion, sex, disability, familiar/ status or national origin, or an intention to make any such preference, limitation or discrimination. Familial status includes children under the age of 18 living with parents or legal custodians, pregnant women and people securing
The toll-free tele phone number for the hearing impaired is 1-800-927-9275. EQUAL HOUSING OPPORTUNITY
details on placing your Help Wanted ad in our Classified Section call (Elmhurst) 630-834-8244
• Answering calls, providing customer service, and supporting daily office
• Handling data entry and processing into our internal systems
• Assisting with scanning, sorting and organizing documents
• Using Microsoft Word, Excel, and Outlook to keep things running smoothly
• Taking initiative to identify tasks that need attention and ensuring they’re completed efficiently
• Working independently while maintaining a collaborative, team-focused mindset What We’re Looking For:
• Strong communication and organizational skills
• Comfortable with multitasking and fast-paced environments
• A proactive attitude with the ability to take initiative and solve problems on your own
• Part- time hours with flexibility to fit your schedule Interested?
• 50¢
Sausage & Peppers
• $9 Pasta Marinara (add $2 for Vodka, Meat, Carbonara or Alfredo)
