Jazz festival to feature WDR Big Band from Germany
High school, college bands, professionals to also perform
By Jane Charmelo FOR THE ELMHURST INDEPENDENT
For fans of jazz, the Elmhurst University Jazz Festival will be featuring talented musicians from high schoolage to professional musicians starting Thursday, Feb. 20, and ending Sunday, Feb. 23.
Headlining the festival this year is Germany’s WDR (West Deutscher Rundfunk) Big Band, which festival Director Christopher Parsons said is one of Germany’s “radio” bands— that one would hear on the radio.
“Over time it’s evolved to be a state big band,” he continued, adding that the band members are employed by Cologne and noting that “This is their full-time job.”
The WDR Big Band, he said, performs with guest musicians and singers, such as Kurt Elling; as well as “featuring their own musicians and bringing in guest composers and arrangers.”
The WDR Big Band director will be Chief Conductor Bob Mintzer—a well-known saxophonist, arranger and educator—who lives in Los Angeles and travels to Germany. He is a member of the Yellowjackets, who will also be performing during the event.
Among the lineup are guitarist Dave Stryker, who will perform with the WDR Big Band, drummer Danny Gottlieb, trombonist Ryan Keberle and saxophonist Sharel Cassity.
When asked how the particular performers are chosen to participate, Parsons said that the idea is consider “what would fit with the [featured] band. You try to take that into consideration.”
On Thursday, Feb. 20, starting at 9:30 a.m. the festival will kick off with the High School Invitational, with support from the Sylvia and Wil-
The WDR Big Band from Cologne, Germany, will headline the 58th annual Elmhurst University Jazz
which begins Thursday, Feb. 20, starting with performances by eight area high school bands.
liam W. Gretsch Memorial Foundation. Parsons said eight high schools will be participating, and “The guest artists will watch the bands perform.”
The day’s event will conclude with Gottlieb, Keberle and Cassity performing with the Elmhurst University Jazz Band at around noon.
On Friday, Feb. 21, starting at 11:30 a.m., seven college and university bands will perform, as well as the U-W Whitewater Jazz Enemble I and WDR Big Band at 7:30 p.m. Performing with WDR will be the Grammy-winning Yellowjackets, which has been described in an Elmhurst University release as a “fusion band that has been performing and recording for more than 40 years.”
Parsons said the guest musicians
will also go up on stage and talk with the bands after their performances.
On Saturday, Feb. 22, Gottlieb, Keberle and Cassity will hold a clinic and master class at 9:30 a.m., which is open to the public, Parsons noted.
There will also be six college/university performances starting at 11:30 a.m., and starting at 7:30 p.m. there will be a concert featuring Cassity, Gottlieb and Keberle with the university’s jazz band, as well as the WDR Big Band and Stryker.
On Sunday, Feb. 23, the festival will conclude at 11:30 a.m. with six college and university performances, along with a performance at around 4:15 p.m. by the WDR Big Band, conducted by Mintzer.
“The main point of our festival is
education first,” Parsons emphasized, saying that the professional musicians will not only be performing but will be offering critiques to their younger counterparts.
And, he added, the jazz festival “is entirely a student-run festival,” with students handling tickets and merchandise, serving as guest artist hosts, assisting with security and helping with sound and stage set-up.
“This is impossible without them,” Parsons pointed out.
“There are many layers of experience levels among the students,” Parsons said, and he is speaking from experience.
While this is his third year as festival director, Parsons, a guitarist, said he has been involved with the jazz
festival for 20 years—also on the other side of the music stand.
In fact, Parsons commented, “This festival changed my life.”
As for what music students get out of the experience, he added, “I’m honored to be able to promote that kind of environment for them.”
The Elmhurst University Jazz Festival is now in its 58th year and according to the university, is “one of the oldest and best-known collegiate festivals in the country.”
The festival will be held in Hammerschmidt Memorial Chapel, at 190 Prospect Ave., Elmhurst (Elmhurst. edu/campusmap) and via livestream, and is open to the public.
For more information, and for tickets, visit Elmhurst.edu/JazzFestival.
Festival,
SUBMITTED PHOTO Elmhurst Independent
Childhood obesity trends in DuPage County: New data released
The DuPage County Health Department has released the latest data for DuPage County in a publication titled “Childhood Obesity in DuPage County, 2023-2024 Annual Report.”
What the data say:
• In 2023-2024, 16.2 percent (more than one in seven) of DuPage County public school students from participating kindergarten, sixth, and ninth-grade classes (67.1 percent of classes) had obesity.
• The percent of students with obesity increased by 1.2 percentage points, from 15.0 percent in 20182019 to 16.2 percent in 2023-2024.
This represents an 8 percent increase in the proportion of students with
obesity.
• Additionally, 45.1 percent of DuPage County school-aged children with obesity had an elevated blood pressure reading.
Why is this important? Having obesity during childhood increases immediate and future health risks.
Compared to children with healthy weight, kids who are overweight in kindergarten are four times more likely to have obesity by eighth grade.
Obesity affects some groups more than others, including adolescents, Hispanic and nonHispanic Black children, and children in families with lower incomes. These differ-
ences are rooted, in part, in persistent inequities. These include poverty and access to quality health care, healthy affordable foods and beverages, and safe and convenient places for physical activity.
From 2017 to March 2020 among U.S. 2 to 19 year-olds, obesity prevalence was highest in Hispanic children (26.2 percent) and non-Hispanic Black children (24.8 percent) followed by non-Hispanic white (16.6 percent) and non-Hispanic Asian (9.0 percent) children.
What can parents do? Here are ways families can help prevent obesity:
• Model a healthy eating pattern
ICCP announces its Students of the Month for January
IC Catholic Prep recently announced its Students of the Month for January. The honored students, pictured left to right, included: (front row) sophomore Jasmine Villegas, senior James DeRose, freshman Gavin Rivera, freshman Grace Lugiai and junior Sofia Bucaro; (back row) sophomore Michael Orvino, junior Charlie Hansen and senior Will Bryk.
• Move more as a family
• Set consistent sleep routines • Replace screen time with family time
• Support obesity prevention in early care and education
• Find a family healthy weight program.
To read the full report and learn how everyone, including schools, parents, and healthcare providers can take action, go to www.dupagehealth.org/239/Childhood-Obesity.
For additional health indicators in DuPage County, visit www.impactdupage.org.
Elmhurst Artists’ Guild to host artist Jeanine Hill-Soldner on Feb. 20
The Elmhurst Artists’ Guild (EAG) is proud to welcome nationally recognized artist Jeanine Hill-Soldner as the featured presenter at its upcoming Member Meeting on Thursday, Feb. 20, from 7 to 9 p.m. at the Elmhurst Art Museum, 150 Cottage Hill Ave. This event is open to all EAG members and art enthusiasts eager to gain insight into Hill-Soldner’s illustrious career and creative journey.
Jeanine Hill-Soldner, a nationally recognized artist, has spent over 35 years creating dynamic, representational oil paintings. With a BA in art from the University of Florida and an MA in art from the University of Illinois, her work has been exhibited in numerous galleries and museums across the U.S. She is best known
for her “Portraits of American Veterans Project” and “Memories of an Era,” honoring veterans through art. Her work has been featured in major exhibitions, PBS segments, and various publications. In addition to her veteran-focused art, she continues to create compelling works and is an active member of several prominent Chicago art organizations.
The Elmhurst Artists’ Guild invites all members and guests to attend this special evening of artistic inspiration and discussion. Don’t miss this opportunity to hear from an accomplished artist whose work has left a lasting impact on the art world.
For more information, visit the EAG’s website at elmhurstartistsguild.org or contact the EAG at info@elmhurstartistsguild.org.
Registration is open for Elmhurst’s Citizens Police Academy
The free 12-week program begins on March 5; space is limited
Registration is now open for the Elmhurst Police Department’s spring Citizens Police Academy.
The Citizens Police Academy will meet from 6:30 to 9:30 p.m. on Wednesday evenings from March 5 to May 21.
The program is offered free of charge and is limited to 25 students per session.
Participants will learn the ins and outs of the police department. The 12 evening sessions will cover several topics, including crime scene analysis, traffic stops, the K9 unit, interviewing and interrogation, and more.
The Citizens Police Academy provides an opportunity for citizens who live or work in Elmhurst to become acquainted with how the police department operates on a day-to-day basis.
At the end of the program, participants will have a better understanding of police procedures, equipment, responsibilities, demands, and the laws governing the actions of police officers.
Registration closes on March 3. To register, or for more information, visit www.elmhurst.org/citizenspoliceacademy.
SUBMITTED PHOTO Elmhurst Independent
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.
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Meeting an officer
Three young Elmhurst students received a
morning, Feb. 7. Officer
Elmhurst City Council meeting summary Monarch butterflies proposed as threatened species
By Chris Fox ELMHURST INDEPENDENT
The Elmhurst City Council held a regular meeting on Monday, Feb. 3. All of the city’s aldermen attended the brief meeting.
Belanger joins the city council after Levin’s appointment and members’ approval
During the city council’s first regular meeting of 2025, held on Jan. 6, Elmhurst Mayor Scott Levin noted that the resignation of former Alderman Marti Deuter created a vacancy on the city council. Deuter, who was nearing the end of her third four-year term on the city council, resigned from her position as an alderman at the end of 2024. Deuter left the city council to represent District 45 in the Illinois House of Representatives in Springfield. She was elected to serve in the Illinois legislature in November 2024.
At the Feb. 3 city council meeting, Levin stated that Brian Belanger was the only candidate remaining in the upcoming race to represent the First Ward on the city council. Belanger will run unopposed for a four-year on the city council in the election of April 1.
Levin said during last week’s meeting that he had talked to Belanger to learn if he was ready to serve, and that having Belanger join the council will bring the council
back up to full capacity, with 14 aldermen. Levin proceeded to appoint Belanger to the city council, and stated that his appointment required the council’s approval. No one on the council opposed the motion to approve Belanger’s appointment. Levin then administered the oath of office to Belanger, who was accompanied by his wife and their three children during his swearing-in. After taking the oath of office, Belanger shook hands with his fellow aldermen before taking a seat on the dais and joining the city council.
City Clerk Jackie Haddad-Tamer mentioned during the meeting that early voting in the April 1 election starts on March 17. She said additional information about the election would be provided on the city’s website—www.elmhurst.org.
At the end of the meeting, Levin congratulated Elmhurst Park District Executive Director Jim Rogers for being named the Illinois Park and Recreation Association (IPRA) Professional of the Year Award. Rogers received the award at the recent Illinois Association of Park Districts (IAPD)/IPRA Soaring to New Heights Conference, which was held Jan. 23-25 in Chicago.
Levin noted that he and representatives of Elmhurst Community Unit School District 205 wrote letters of support for Rogers to receive the award.
By Tammie Sloup FarmWeek
U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) is proposing federal protections for the monarch butterfly.
The service Thursday, Dec. 12, proposed to list the monarch butterfly as a threatened species and designate critical habitat under the Endangered Species Act (ESA).
According to a notice in the Federal Register, USFWS determined the monarch butterfly meets the definition of a threatened species due to the ongoing impacts from loss and degradation of habitat, exposure to insecticides and the effects of climate change.
“To improve future conditions so that the monarch migratory populations stabilize and grow, we need to (1) achieve a significant increase in the availability of milkweed and nectar plants in monarch breeding and migratory areas; (2) protect and enhance overwintering habitat; (3) avoid and minimize impacts to monarchs and their habitat from insecticides and herbicides; and (4) maintain public support for the conservation of monarch butterflies,” it is written in the notice.
“Because of the monarch butterfly’s general habitat use and wide distribution, all sectors of society, including the general public, have an opportunity to participate in a broad range of conservation efforts throughout the species’ range.”
The listing proposal is accompanied by a proposed 4(d) rule that offers species-specific protections and flexibilities to encourage conservation and a proposed “critical habitat” designation for the species at its overwintering grounds in 4,395 acres in coastal California. Federal agencies are prohibited from destroying or modifying areas with that designation.
Two informational meetings and public hearings also have been scheduled. Comments can be submitted to the Federal Register through March 12.
For more information, visit bit.ly/3OQ4ZlT.
This story was distributed through a cooperative project between Illinois Farm Bureau and the Illinois Press Association. For more food and farming news, visit FarmWeekNow.com.
SUBMITTED PHOTO Elmhurst Independent
tour of Elmhurst Police Officer Viktoria Baldacci’s squad car before school on Friday
Baldacci spoke to the students about careers as a police officer and showed them the special equipment inside the vehicle.
JAMES F. MAY, 73
James F. May, 73, of Elmhurst, passed away peacefully on February 5, 2025, surrounded by his loved ones. Born on March 20, 1951, James was the beloved husband of the late Marcia L. May nee Rosko. Loving father of Megan May, Lauren (Frank) DeAngelis, and Kelly May (Kyle Mayer); cherished grandfather of Hayden DeAngelis.
James had a deep and abiding love for his daughters, and his years spent with them in the Indian Princesses program were among his most treasured memories.
He reveled in the time spent together, building lasting bonds and creating special moments that they would carry with them for the rest of their lives.
An avid golfer, James enjoyed countless rounds of golf, particularly with his in-laws, where the love of the game and camaraderie were always at the forefront. James was also a passionate fan of Chicago sports, with a particular affection for the White Sox and the Bears. His love for the teams was matched only by his appreciation for watching his daughter, Lauren, coach cross country and his granddaughter Hayden, in soccer, and now gymnastics. When he wasn’t cheering for his teams, James could often be found enjoying oldies mu-
sic, tapping his foot to the tunes of an era he loved.
Additionally, Kelly, a dedicated nurse, and Megan, who works in Higher Ed IT, have followed their father’s example of hard work and determination, making him proud of the women they’ve become. James took immense pride in all his daughters’ achievements and the way they had built careers filled with purpose and service to others.
A strong believer in civic duty, James was never shy about engaging in lively debates, especially when it came to politics.
Regardless of his personal stance, he always felt that being an active participant in the democratic process was one of the most important roles he could fulfill as an American. His passion for his country, combined with his willingness to listen and engage, made for lively debates.
The funeral will be held on April 4th, 2025 at 9:30 am at Immaculate Conception Church, 134 Arthur Street, Elmhurst, 60126.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the American Cancer Society, https://www.cancer.org/.
Arrangements in care of Elmhurst Community Funeral Home – THE AHLGRIM CHAPEL. For info, (630) 834-3515 or www.ElmhurstFH.com.
Elmhurst University hosts pianist Tian Tian for solo recital this Sunday, Feb. 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”
The Elmhurst University Music Department is pleased to host worldrenown pianist Tian Tian for a solo performance recital on Sunday, Feb. 16, beginning at 7:30 pm. The concert will take place in Buik Recital Hall in Irion Hall on the Elmhurst University campus. Dr. Tian will play pieces from Mozart, Liszt, Chopin, and Rachmaninoff. The concert is free and open to the concert-going public. Dr. Tian has presented solo concerts across the United States, Canada and China, and maintains a busy performance schedule in the U.S. and abroad. She has been a guest artist at music festivals such as the 2024 Sicily Orbifold Music Festival, Brancaleoni International Music Festival and Garth Newel Music Center. As an avid chamber musician, Dr. Tian has performed with the Juilliard Quartet and toured in the U.S., China, and Korea as a member of the Studzinsky Trio. Dr. Tian began her piano training at the age of four in her native China. Upon arriving in the United States, she studied with Logan Skelton and quickly began amassing top prizes at national and international competitions. She continued her training at the Juilliard School, where she received B.M. and M.M. degrees under the tutelage of Robert McDonald. In 2011, Dr. Tian completed a D.M.A. in Piano Performance and Literature with a minor in Chamber Music and Accompanying at the Eastman School of Music. Dr. Tian is currently an Associate Professor of Piano at Oakland University. Visit www.tiantianpiano. com to learn more. The public is welcome to attend and admission to the concert is free. For more about this concert, future performances, a map of the campus or more information, visit www.elmhurst.edu/music.
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
SUBMITTED PHOTO Elmhurst Independent
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.
Assault, battery
Jan. 31
Dominic A. Silvestri, 54, of Elmhurst, was issued a citation for battery in the 300 block of W. Grand at 11:48 a.m. Police said that subsequent to a verbal dispute, the suspect hit the victim knocking a cellphone out of his hand.
Domestic incident, disorderly conduct, disturbance, domestic battery
Feb. 5
Frank J. Cortese, 52, of Elmhurst, was charged with obstructing a police officer, resisting a police officer and disorderly conduct in the 100 block of N. York. Police said that subsequent to the report of a disturbance and threats to employees, officers made contact with the suspect, who refused to comply with lawful orders and resisted arrest. Police said the suspect also was processed on a failure to appear warrant.
A 21-year-old Elmhurst woman was charged with domestic battery in the 300 block of S. West. Police said a complainant said the suspect pushed and bit him. The suspect also was found to have a failure to appear warrant out of Shelby County.
Feb. 2
A 46-year-old Elmhurst man was charged with two counts of domestic battery in the 1000 block of S. Riverside at 8:57 p.m.
Feb. 1
A 54-year-old Elmhurst man was charged with two counts of domestic battery in the 500 block of N. Walnut at 4:08 a.m. Police said that subsequent to the report of a domestic disturbance, it was learned the suspect gained entry into his parents’ bedroom and battered a victim.
DUI, consumption of alcohol by a minor, illegal possession of alcohol
Feb. 3
Carlos Hernandez-Gonzalez, 22, of Chicago, was charged with aggravated DUI causing great bodily harm, driving the wrong way on a divided highway, failure to reduce speed to avoid an accident, no valid driver’s license and no insurance subsequent to a traffic crash near North and I-290 at 5:07 a.m.
Feb. 1
Jesus Aguilar, 27, of Chicago, was charged with DUI, carrying a concealed firearm while under the influence, failure to signal when required, improper lane usage and no insurance subsequent to a traffic stop near I-290 and York at 3:01 a.m.
Fleeing, eluding
According to information provided last week by the Elmhurst Police Department, police reported two incidents of fleeing and eluding during which the driver of a vehicle fled
the scene after being stopped for a traffic stop by police.
Harassment, threats
Feb. 1
A complainant in the 100 block of N. Robert T. Palmer reported a customer had threatened him over the phone and wanted the incident documented as a matter of record.
Identity theft, fraud
According to information provided by the Elmhurst Police Department, police reported seven incidents of identity theft or fraud.
Possession of cannabis in a vehicle
According to information provided by the Elmhurst Police Department, police reported three incidents of possession of cannabis by either the driver of a vehicle or a passenger: Felix Carpena, 30, of Melrose Park, near Melrose and North at 5:11 p.m.; Ishmael L. Bahena, 39, of Waukegan, near North and West at 4:46 p.m. Feb. 1; and Efrain Marinez Jr., 29, of Bellwood, near Butterfield and Euclid at 12:16 p.m. Feb. 2.
Theft, burglary, attempted theft or burglary, forgery, deceptive practice, obstruction, robbery
Feb. 5
A complainant at a store in the 100 block of S. Route 83 reported two unknown suspects entered the store and attempted to remove merchandise without paying. When confronted by employees, the suspects dropped one of the two shoes and left the business in a vehicle.
Feb. 4
A complainant in the 200 block of N. Oak told police they had posted flyers for their lost cat and received messages from unknown suspect(s) demanding money in exchange for their cat. The complainant believed these to be fraudulent and wanted to report it as a matter of record.
Jan. 29-Feb. 4
A complainant in the 200 block of N. Indiana related an unknown suspect(s) entered his unlocked vehicle and stole money.
Jan. 8-Feb. 4
A complainant at a cemetery in the 500 block of E. Grand reported an unknown person(s) have removed approximately 60 bronze gravestone vases sometime between the above dates.
Feb. 3
A complainant at a store in the 600 block of
W. North reported an unknown suspect took a pair of boots without paying for them.
Feb. 2
A victim in the 600 block of N. Larch reported his GPS device was stolen from inside his vehicle by an unknown suspect(s).
Feb. 1
Juan. C. Pasillas, 38, of Addison, was charged with burglary, retail theft, possession of a theft-shielding device, driving while license suspended, driving with suspended registration, possession of drug paraphernalia and no insurance subsequent to a traffic stop near Roosevelt and Route 83 at 7:37 p.m.
Police said that subsequent to the sighting of a vehicle that was reported stolen out of Mount Prospect, officers located the vehicle traveling eastbound on I-290. Officers followed the vehicle but were unable to conduct a traffic stop. The vehicle was last seen traveling eastbound on I-290 passing Des Plaines Road.
Jan. 31
A complainant in the 100 block of N. Robert T. Palmer reported two unknown suspects left the business with two bags containing unpaid merchandise.
Jan. 30
Police said that subsequent to a suspicious person at the above location, Luis A. Gutierrez, 29, of Roselle, was found to have two failure to appear warrants out of DuPage County. The suspect was processed on both warrants and transported to the DuPage County Jail.
Jan. 17
Police said that subsequent to a call of a delayed burglary at an auto dealership in the 700 block of W. Lake, it was learned that the suspect, Yulianna Rodriguez-Gonzalez, 42, of Aurora, was seen on camera entering employee offices and removing a baseball hat before leaving the scene. Officers contacted the suspect, who agreed to turn herself in. Rodriguez-Gonzalez was charged with theft and criminal trespass to a building.
Warrant arrest
Feb. 2
Police said Naticia Bonilla, 38, of Elmhurst, had a failure to appear warrant out of DuPage County in the 100 block of S. Riverside at 8:57 p.m.
Woman sentenced to 40 years in 2018 West Chicago homicide
DuPage County State’s Attorney Robert Berlin announced last week that following a four-daylong sentencing hearing, Judge Brian Telander has sentenced Tia Brewer, 22, formerly of Wheaton, to 40 years in the Illinois Department of Corrections (IDOC) for her role in the 2018 murder of Luis Guerrero, 18, of West Chicago.
The state had asked for a sentence of natural life in the IDOC. On Nov. 1, 2023, Brewer entered a plea of guilty to one count of first-degree murder and one count of aggravated kidnapping (Class X felony).
Brewer, who was 16 years old at the time of the murder, is the third of four individuals charged in the murder to be sentenced.
She was prosecuted as an adult pursuant to Illinois law. Co-defendants Jesus Jurado-Correa, 25 and Saul Ruiz, 24, both formerly of West Chicago, each entered a plea of guilty to one count of conspiracy to commit first-degree murder, a Class 1 felony, and in exchange for their cooperation, were sentenced to 15 years in the IDOC and 10 years in the IDOC respectively.
On Nov. 9, 2022, co-defendant Francisco Alvarado, 25, formerly of West Chicago, in exchange for his cooperation, entered a plea of guilty to one count of first-degree murder and one count of aggravated kidnapping (Class X felony). His next court appearance is scheduled for Feb. 26.
On Aug. 14, 2018, at approximately 11:30 a.m., while conducting a nearby training exercise, personnel with the West Chicago Fire Department observed a smoldering object in a fire pit located at 1325 Joliet Street.
Upon inspection of the object, fire personnel discovered the object to be a human body, later identified as Guerrero.
Fire personnel immediately contacted the West Chicago Police Department who began an investigation into the matter with the assistance of the Major Crimes Task Force. The investigation quickly led authorities to Alvarado, Brewer, Correa, and Ruiz.
The investigation found that all four defendants had planned the murder of Guerrero for approximately one month and that in the early morning hours of Aug. 14, Brewer arranged to meet Guerrero at the West Chicago Public Library. At the library, Alvarado ambushed Guerrero from behind and strangled him with a belt around his neck. Alvarado and Brewer then began stabbing and punching Guerrero.
After stealing Guerrero’s backpack, Alvarado and Brewer loaded him into their Jeep Cherokee, traveled to the location on Joliet Street and removed Guerrero from the Jeep. They stabbed and beat Guerrero as he begged to be taken to a hospital.
The investigation further found that Correa arrived at the fire pit with a container of gasoline after Guerrero was unconscious. Correa gave the container of gasoline to Alvarado and Brewer who then poured the gasoline onto Guerrero and then lit him on fire.
While on fire, Guerrero got up and began to run away at which time Alvarado and Brewer stabbed and beat him. Alvarado and Brewer dragged Guerrero back to the fire pit, threw Guerrero into the pit and lit him on fire again.
Judge Telander sentenced Brewer to 34 years in the IDOC on the murder charge to be served at 100 percent and six years in the IDOC on the aggravated kidnapping charge to be served at 85 percent. The sentences will be served consecutively.
Three subjects arrested for allegedly stealing more than $13,000 in items from Ulta Beauty store in Naperville
Last week, Naperville police officers were dispatched to the Ulta Beauty store in the 2700 block of Aurora Avenue for a report of a retail theft in progress.
“The suspect was allegedly seen concealing merchandise in his clothing prior to fleeing from the store without paying,” noted a statement from the Naperville Police Department.
“The employee caller provided our dispatcher with a detailed description of the suspect.”
Officers responded to the store, searched the area and located a subject matching the description. Officers made contact with the subject, who was in a vehicle with two other
occupants.
“By the time their investigation concluded, officers had recovered over $13,000 of allegedly stolen Ulta Beauty merchandise,” added the Naperville Police Department’s statement. According to police, felony charges were approved for all three alleged offenders, who were later transported to the DuPage County Jail.
“This was a great example of how the police and community can work together to hold people responsible for their criminal behavior,” concluded the police department’s statement about the incident.
Illinois America 250 Commission invites all Illinoisans to celebrate nation’s 250th anniversary leading up to July 4, 2026
Preparations are under way for Illinois to join in the nation’s celebration of 250 years of independence in 2026, and the Illinois America 250 Commission is encouraging people across the Prairie State to get involved in planning festivities and educational opportunities to mark the historic moment.
Celebrations marking the nation’s independence are expected to take place across the country in 2026, culminating on July 4 of that year.
“Illinois is integral to telling our nation’s story, from our rich agricultural and manufacturing roots to our role in the fight for freedom and justice,” said Gov. JB Pritzker. “As we commemorate 250 years of independence, the Illinois America 250 Commission will help ensure every Illinoisan has a voice and a place in this historic moment.”
“The 250th anniversary is not just a celebration of our past. It’s an opportunity to examine how we ended up where we are today and an invitation to consider the future we want to build,” said Gabrielle Lyon, chair of the Illinois America 250 Commission and executive director of Illinois Humanities.
“It’s thrilling to see the range of plans taking shape. In every corner of the state, people are excited to lift up undertold stories, build civic
Chicago man sentenced to 22 years for robbing Glendale Heights business
DuPage County State’s Attorney Robert Berlin announced last week that a Chicago man on federal probation has been sentenced to 22 years in the Illinois Department of Corrections for robbing a Glendale Heights business in April 2023.
Odell Wright, 49, appeared in Court on Oct. 14, 2023, where the Court ordered he be detained pre-trial. On Dec. 5, 2024, following a three-day-long trial, a jury found Wright guilty of one count of aggravated robbery, a Class 1 felony. The sentence was handed down by Judge Daniel Guerin.
On April 26, 2023, at approximately 1:54 p.m., the Glendale Heights Police Department responded to a call of a robbery at Stella’s Place located at 2190 Bloomingdale Road. Following an investigation into the matter, authorities learned that Wright entered the establishment shortly after 12 noon and began playing a slot machine.
At approximately 1:40 p.m., Wright approached an employee at the front counter, indicated he had a firearm and ordered the employee to open the cash register and give him the money in the register. After the employee complied with Wright’s orders, Wright fled the establishment.
Through the course of the investigation, authorities developed Wright as a suspect. On Oct. 13, 2023, Wright was taken into custody without incident. Wright was on federal probation at the time of his arrest.
pride, and involve their communities in shaping the next chapter of America’s story.”
The Illinois America 250 Commission is encouraging communities, libraries, schools, historical societies, cultural institutions, and individuals of all ages to be part of efforts to develop an inclusive commemoration of the founding of the United States and Illinois’ vital role in the nation’s history and development.
“The Illinois America 250 Commission is made up of a bipartisan group of individuals who have come together to uplift the vital role our state has had within our nation’s history,” said State Senator Doris Turner (D-Springfield).
“History is living, breathing and ever-evolving. It’s important that we bring to light the untold stories of Illinois.”
The Commission is focused on four areas in anticipation of the July 4, 2026, anniversary:
Creating opportunities that engage diverse youth statewide and foster relationships between young people and elected officials.
• Encouraging and supporting counties, cities, towns, and municipalities to commemorate the 250th accessibly and inclusively.
• Identifying unique cultural assets and place-based visitor experiences for residents and visitors alike to showcase the Illinois’ role in our country’s complex legacy.
• Gathering educational resources that enable young people, students, and life-long learners of all ages to explore and engage with the meaning
of the anniversary.
Over the coming months, the Commission will host outreach and listening sessions to encourage residents from all corners of Illinois to explore the diversity, strength, and resilience that make Illinois central to America. Visit the Commission’s website and follow it on social media for updates and opportunities to get involved.
“The Illinois Department of Natural Resources, the Illinois State Museum, and state historic sites are proud to be part of plans to celebration the nation’s 250th birthday,” said Natalie Phelps Finnie, director of the Illinois Department of Natural Resources. “We look forward to welcoming visitors to Illinois state parks, museums, and historic sites as they contemplate our nation’s past and its future.”
“As we prepare to celebrate 250 years alongside the Illinois America 250 Commission, DCEO and the Office of Tourism will continue to highlight the unique stories and rich diversity that make Illinois an essential part of America’s past, present and future,” said Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO) Director Kristin Richards. “As Illinois’ world-class tourism industry achieves record-breaking successes, this monumental occasion provides an opportunity to invite people, from near and far, to discover what makes Illinois a cornerstone of our nation’s story.”
Civic involvement will be key to Illinois’ participation in the national 250th celebration, said Brad Cole,
chief executive officer of the Illinois Municipal League and a member of the Illinois America 250 Commission.
“Local elected officials and community organizations across the state will play a central role in commemorating our first 250 years through special events, ceremonies and other engaging opportunities for this oncein-a-lifetime anniversary,” Cole said.
Youth involvement also is critical because Generation Z—today’s young adults—will guide the nation into its next chapter, said Kayla Pilgrim, one of 100 members of the Made by Us Youth250 Bureau.
“Commemorating America’s 250th is not only about reflecting on our past. It’s also an opportunity to amplify young voices and ensure they have a role in shaping the future of our country,” Pilgrim, 19, of Berwyn said. “Illinois youth bring valuable ideas and energy that are essential to building a stronger and more inclusive America.”
The Illinois America 250 Commission is also focused on representing Tribal nations in the observance. Dorene Wiese, president of the American Indian Association of Illinois and a member of the Commission, said remembering and documenting history is crucial for the country and noted that the creation of the United States involved the colonization, dehumanization, and displacement of American Indian people, leading to oppression and significant loss of life, land, and cultural practices.
Today, Illinois has the 10th largest American Indian population of any
state, with representatives of more than 100 different tribes present.
“We call for a reflective approach to Independence Day celebrations, urging Americans to acknowledge the resilience and contributions of American Indian people. It encourages honoring those referred to as ‘merciless Indian Savages’ in the Declaration, recognizing their enduring presence and influence in the nation’s history,” Wiese said.
The Illinois America 250 Commission comprises appointees from Native and tribal organizations, arts and humanities organizations including museums and libraries, and the civic and business sectors. It was created by the Illinois America Commission Act with the task of fostering an inclusive statewide celebration that highlights Illinois’ unique contributions to the nation’s history and explores the many perspectives that shape its legacy.
The Commission aims to create spaces for dialogue, learning, and celebration across all communities in Illinois, emphasizing the state’s vibrant cultural heritage and its continuing role in America’s story and amplifying community-driven initiatives that highlight the contributions of Illinoisans from all walks of life.
About Illinois America 250
For more information on the Illinois America 250 Commission and to learn how communities can participate in planning and events, visit the Illinois America 250 website. Social media users can connect on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn.
Viewpoint
Slices of life
Victim or victor
This life provides challenges for all of us. They can be beyond difficult. And unexpected. And unfair.
Your marriage ends unexpectedly. Your spouse dies. You lose your job. You lose a parent or a sibling. Your best friend finds a new best friend. An accident upends your life. You struggle with infertility. You have chronic pain. You struggle with your health. Your doctor diagnoses you with the ‘C’ word. And so on and so on and on and on.
It can be disheartening. Especially if you see it that way. Life often sets us up to be the victim.
Circumstances go against what we’d hoped. Luck isn’t on our side. We lose more than we win. The rules seem to change. People who should be loyal are not. Others who should be kind are cruel.
The world is cruel.
At face value, it is disheartening. Oh heck, at any level it is disheartening.
Life can be a bully sometimes— often times. Life will beat you up and spit you out, without remorse. Without caring about how you feel or how crushed your spirit might be.
To heck with you.
What does any of it matter, anyway?
When you are the most downtrodden, when people and the world have cut you to your quick, when it seems everyone who should be supporting you has turned their back against you, when you want to stay in bed, under the covers all day long because facing the world seems like facing razor blades, remember one thing:
The world may see you as a victim. You may feel like the victim. But:
You do not have to be the victim. You are not the victim.
Although the role of victim feels like it should be the default for much of life’s foibles, it is not. And perhaps the most telling word in that last sentence is “role.”
You do not have to play the role of victim - despite what your circumstances might imply.
You do not have to accept the role of victim, and if you can sort of grasp this, you can change the whole mentality.
By JILL PERTLER Columnist
From victim to victor. It is yours for the taking.
Make lemonade out of lemons— we’ve all heard the phrase, and sometimes it’s a benefit to incorporate such colloquialisms into real life.
Much like making lemonade, this process is pretty simple. I’ve already alluded to the fact the the default is that of victim. But you are not the default! You are unique and one in a million. One in a billion!
What makes you think you are the default? Don’t sell yourself short.
You can take a loss and make it a win. You take a liability and make it an asset. You take lemons and make limonchello (bypassing lemonade, because you are way beyond that!)
Life is hard. I understand that. I know it firsthand.
But I also know that hard can be overcome and the only way to overcome it is through your own mindset.
Other people can define you as the victim, they will see you as the victim. But it is up to you—and only you—as to how you decide to see yourself.
What is a victor? A conqueror. A winner. Someone who ends up on top. Someone who deserves a word of congratulations.
Someone who does not let the world define them, but chooses to define themselves.
I also believe any victor has overcome adversaries and difficulties—battles even, because you can’t be a victor without conflict and struggles. It is those very struggles—and overcoming them, one breath at a time—that allow you to redefine yourself: from victim to victor.
It isn’t easy. But I will tell you one thing for certain. It is most definitely worth it.
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.
Speaking out against high prescription drug costs and unfair local pharmacy competition
By U.S. Rep. Raja Krishnamoorthi
I recently held a press conference at Del-Kar Drugs, a local pharmacy in the North Lawndale neighborhood of Chicago, calling out pharmacy benefit managers (PBMs) for marking up the cost of prescription drugs by as much as 1000 percent while working to drive small and independent pharmacies off the market.
More than 2,000 local and independent pharmacies closed in 2024 alone, robbing communities of trusted institutions like DelKar Drugs for their medication. As a result of these closures, 73 percent of Illinois counties are now classified as pharmacy deserts, meaning there are no pharmacies within 10 miles.
In theory, PBMs are supposed to navigate the relationship between drug makers, insurance companies and pharmacies to help keep prices down. In reality, PBMs use their leverage to force drug companies to pay them rebates on medications,
padding their own profits while increasing the likelihood that unaffiliated pharmacies can’t afford to supply patients with the medications they need.
Since rebate amounts are proportional to the costs of prescription drugs, PBMs have created a system that incentivizes drug companies and themselves to drive up the prices of undiscounted prescriptions.
The new Federal Trade Commission (FTC) interim staff report I discussed during my press conference clearly shows that PBMs are raking in enormous profits at the expense of patients and small businesses.
The time for PBM reform is long overdue, and Congress should use this report to finally enact change that puts patients first.
My tour of the Chicago
Quantum Exchange
Last month, I toured the Chicago Quantum Exchange (CQE) at the University of Chicago and participated in a roundtable discussion with local, state, and business leaders on how best to build on the future of quantum
technology in Illinois.
With strategic competitors like the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) racing to catch up with American innovation, federal investments in cutting edge technology like quantum computing is more critical than ever to maintaining our strategic and security edge. But there are also enormous opportunities for economic growth as of right now, only 1 out of every 3 quantum computing jobs is filled, and the industry expects to create 200,000 more.
With our educational and research institutions, Illinois is positioned to lead the country, as well as the world, in groundbreaking research and innovation.
Illinois has the opportunity to secure a disproportionate share of the job which may be created, and it’s crucial that we continue fostering partnerships to strengthen our quantum workforce and build a future-focused economy that sets the global standard.
Raja Krishnamoorthi represents the 8th Congressional District of Illinois, which includes part of Addison, Wood Dale and Bensenville.
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 630-530-9584 or email: emrrc@comcast. net.
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 630-834-7750 or visit: https://elmhurstchurch.org.
Monday, Feb. 17
Memory Café: Golden Age of Hollywood. From 1:30-3:30 p.m. presented free by the Elmhurst Public Library, individuals with Alzheimer’s Disease, dementia, or other cognitive or memory impairment disorders, as well as their caregivers, are welcome to join us each month for themed activities that encourage reminiscing and spark memories. On Feb. 17. we take the way back machine to the Golden Age of Hollywood! Live in-person. Registration is required. For more information, call 630-279-8696 or email: reference@elmlib. org.
Tuesday, Feb. 18
Diana: The Reluctant Princess. From 7-8 p.m. presented by the Elmhurst Public Library, Princess Diana of Wales was an un-
IDPH advises public to be vigilant as flu cases and respiratory virus levels tick up
The Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) recently announced that after a oneweek dip, the state’s overall respiratory illness level has ticked up again from Moderate to High, driven by a notable increase in emergency department (ED) visits and hospital admissions for flu.
While data for ED visits and hospital admissions for the week ending Jan. 25 show that COVID-19 and RSV are declining, it indicates the flu is circulating more widely. There are three times as many hospital admissions for flu as there are for COVID-19, with 4.6 percent of admissions attributed to flu, with 1.6 percent to COVID-19 and 0.7 percent for RSV.
Almost 20 percent of ED visits were for acute respiratory illness, a catchall category that includes flu, COVID-19 and RSV plus other respiratory conditions. Of those, 7.8 percent were attributed to flu, 1.6 percent to COVID-19 and 0.7 percent to RSV.
“IDPH continues to closely monitor data on seasonal viruses during this respiratory season,” said IDPH Director Dr. Sameer Vohra. “Flu continues to circulate widely across Illinois. I recommend that all those over 65, very young children, individuals with chronic disease, and those who are immunocompromised, use all the tools at their disposal to prevent exposure. If you do develop flu-like symptoms, contact your health care provider and seek treatment right away. Antiviral medication is most effective if initiated less than 48 hours after your symptoms begin.”
The state’s overall respiratory activity level as calculated by the CDC moved up to High in late December but dipped to Moderate in January for one week before ticking up to High again in the most recent week, driven by increasing rates of flu.
The five CDC respiratory activity levels are designed to help people understand the extent of respiratory illness activity in their area. They are divided into Minimal, Low, Moderate, High, and Very High and are based on data that captures a broad range of diagnoses from emergency department visits for respiratory illnesses, from the common cold to severe infections like influenza, RSV and COVID-19.
For those who are unvaccinated, public health officials note that it’s not too late to get vaccinated. It takes about two weeks for vaccinations to provide their full level of protection. Getting shots now will offer protection through the cold and flu season that lasts into the spring.
Director Vohra recommends that anyone feeling symptoms of respiratory illness—such as a fever, runny nose, sore throat or cough—consider getting tested and treated early in the course of their illness, especially if they are at risk for serious illness or spreading it to someone who is at risk of serious illness. Those who are ill should
avoid spreading germs to others by self-isolating (i.e. staying away from others when they are ill) or wearing a mask if unable to isolate.
Sadly, the IDPH Respiratory Illness Dashboard has recorded five pediatric deaths this season from flu, with three from RSV and one from COVID-19 and RSV. These deaths are a stark reminder of the importance of vaccinations for children and of the risk of serious illness from these largely preventable seasonal illnesses.
IDPH has posted two helpful new FAQ documents on its website providing the latest guidance on vaccinations and how to get tested and treated for seasonal illnesses. In addition, the CDC has created a new Respiratory Illness Data Channel that provides nationwide county specific information that would be valuable for anyone planning to travel out of state.
The FDA and CDC have approved new vaccines for COVID-19 and flu and they have updated who can receive the RSV vaccines. The new COVID-19 vaccines and flu shots are recommended for everyone over the age of 6 months. The RSV vaccine is recommended for everyone 75 years and older and those between 60-74 years who are at risk for serious illness.
Those who received an RSV shot last winter, do not need another one at this time, according to the CDC. Those in the late stages of pregnancy are advised to get the RSV vaccine designed to protect newborns. Eligible newborns whose mothers have not received the RSV vaccine should receive nirsevimab between October and March.
For COVID-19, treatment must be prescribed by a healthcare provider and started within 5-7 days after symptoms appear. Treatment is strongly recommended for those who are over 65 or at higher risk for severe illness. Some Illinoisans should be eligible to access free oral antivirals through the Paxcess and Merck Helps programs.
Antiviral treatments for flu are most effective when given within 48 hours of starting to feel ill and are only available by prescription. Older adults, young children and those who are pregnant or have certain underlying conditions are at risk for complications and should contact a healthcare provider to be assessed for the need for treatment as soon as possible.
You can find locations that perform COVID-19 tests in person at no cost near you by using the testing locator for the federal ICATT (Increasing Community Access to Testing) program. The new vaccines are widely available at pharmacies and through hospitals, and community health clinics. The major pharmacy chains allow you to make an appointment online to get a shot.
For help finding a provider of vaccines near you, go to www.vaccines.gov
forgettable personality. Join storyteller Megan Wells as she brings “the people’s princess” to life. This warm, honest portrayal is a trip to Buckingham Palace you will not soon forget. Live in-person and virtually on Zoom. Registration is required. For more information, call 630-279-8696 or email: reference@elmlib.org.
Thursday, Feb. 20
Artist talk with Jeanine Hill- Soldner. From 7-9 p.m. presented free by the 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. 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.
Saturday, Feb. 22
Winter reading retreat. From 10 a.m.-4 p.m. presented free by the Elmhurst Public Library, join the library for a getaway to celebrate all things reading. Stay for a while and read a few chapters while enjoying comfy seating and hot beverages. Then, share with others what you’ve been reading. The retreat will be held at the Gathering Room. Retreat: 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Book-themed crafts will be held from 10 a.m.4 p.m. in the lobby. Trading titles sessions will be held from 11:30 a.m.-noon and 2:30-3 p.m., both at the Gathering Room. No registration
required. For more information, call 630-2798696 or email: reference@elmlib.org.
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 History Museum Info: elmhursthistory.org.
Elmhurst Art Museum Info: 630-834-0202 or visit elmhurstartmuseum.org.
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DCSS announces funding opportunity for mental health and substance use initiatives
The DuPage Council on Strengthening the System for Mental Health & Substance Use Care (DCSS) has announced the availability of $200,000 in grant funds to support mental health and substance use treatment, recovery, harm reduction, prevention, and education. The DCSS particularly seeks innovative, community-based proposals that are sustainable.
“Our goal is to reach into the community and support strategies
that provide vital help for families who are struggling with mental illness and to find programs that reduce the impact of substance use on our communities. Making investments in local, grassroots efforts today will change outcomes and help us reduce pain, addiction, and stigma,” said DuPage County Board Chair Deborah Conroy, co-chair of the DCSS.
The grant funding is made possible by the DuPage County Board to
support the work of DCSS. Grants are available for local government, charitable community organizations, and behavioral health & substance use disorder treatment providers and organizations. Grant awards are expected to be between $25,000 and $100,000. The submission of an application does not guarantee funds will be made available.
Proposed projects will focus on enhancing the full continuum of
care and should address at least one of the following areas:
• Mental health prevention, education, treatment, and recovery
• Substance use prevention, education, treatment, and recovery
• Substance use harm reduction
• Behavioral health workforce development
• The proposed project must serve primarily DuPage County residents.
• Projects focused on treatment and recovery must accept Medicaid and/or individuals who are uninsured.
• Treatment organizations must be licensed by the state of Illinois (e.g. Illinois Department of Health Services (DMH, SUPR). Treatment providers will be licensed by the Illinois Department of Professional and Financial Regulation.
• Applications proposing innovative strategies are desired. However, projects involving clinical care must use evidence-based treatment practices.
• The proposal must be for a new
project or expansion of an existing project.
• Any organization funded by the DCSS will be required to submit a progress report and a final report at dates to be determined.
• Project period will be 12 months.
“This funding opportunity reflects our commitment to supporting programs that address mental health and substance use in DuPage County,” said Adam Forker, executive director, DuPage County Health Department. “We look forward to partnering with local organizations to expand access to prevention, treatment, recovery, and harm reduction services for our residents.”
Grant submissions must be submitted in PDF format by emailing Grants@dupagehealth.org no later than noon on Friday, March 7.
For a complete list of requirements and to apply, visit https:// www.dupagehealth.org/DCSS2025fundingopportunity
Seed swap, pruning workshop in DuPage County
Celebrate National Seed Swap Day with certified Master Gardener volunteers at local Extension offices in the tri-county area.
In Naperville, bring seeds to share and swap with other gardeners and network with Master Gardener volunteers. This option is free, and registration is encouraged.
Find links to local Seed Swap Day events at go.illinois.edu/ HorticultureDKK.
Pruning workshop in Naperville
Led by the DuPage County Master Gardeners, workshop attendees will learn when to prune different types of trees and shrubs, what types of pruners to use, and how and where to make the right cut. The group also will cover spring pruning tasks and provide pruning practice after the presentation.
This free, hands-on workshop will be 10-11:30 a.m. Thursday, Feb. 27, at the DuPage County Extension office in Naperville. Registration is required for each person, and space is limited.
Find all of these upcoming events with links to register at go.illinois. edu/HorticultureDKK.
For questions about these events or if you need reasonable accommodation to participate, contact the program coordinator listed on the website, call 630-584-6166, or email uie-dkk@illinois.edu. Early requests are strongly encouraged to allow sufficient time for meeting access needs.
Northern Illinois Food Bank announces its 2025 signature events
Proceeds will benefit hunger relief efforts in 13 counties
Northern Illinois Food Bank is excited to unveil details for its four signature events in 2025.
These annual events play a vital role in raising funds and awareness for the organization’s mission to provide nutritious food and resources to neighbors in need. Each event offers a unique opportunity to engage with the community, enjoy special experiences, and make a difference in the fight against hunger.
A Cup of Hope
Sunday, March 2, at Abbington Banquets, Glen Ellyn; Presenting Sponsor: Cultivate Power; Website: www.solvehungertoday.org/
cup. This year’s A Cup of Hope, an afternoon tea event hosted by the Food Bank’s Executive Women’s Council and emceed by news anchor Judy Hsu, will feature music from the Lake Forest Civic Orchestra’s string quartet.
Fight Hunger 10K, 5K & Kids Mile
Saturday, May 3, at Cantigny Park, Wheaton; Presenting Sponsor: ALDI; Website: www.solvehungertoday.org/ fighthunger.
This fun-filled event offers three race routes and a vibrant festival atmosphere. ALDI will provide post-race food. Other
highlights include a $25,000 fundraising match by US. Foods, a VIP pavilion for top fundraisers, the Windy City Gaming Truck in the Kids Zone, and food trucks from across the area. Revolution Brewing will once again sponsor the finish line beer.
A Taste That Matters
Wednesday, May 21, at Drury Lane, Oakbrook Terrace; Presenting Sponsor: Jewel-Osco; Website: www. solvehungertoday.org/taste.
This premier culinary event brings together local restaurants and chefs for an evening of delicious dining. Sponsorships and restaurant participation are still open.
Hunger Scramble
Monday, Aug. 18, at White Eagle Golf Club, Naperville; Presenting Sponsor: Old Second National Bank.
Northern Illinois Food Bank’s annual golf outing promises a day of fun on the greens, complete with contests, prizes, and a casual reception. Stay tuned for more information.
“These events are essential to helping us meet the growing needs of our community,” said Julie Yurko, president and CEO of Northern Illinois Food Bank. “We invite our neighbors, donors, and local businesses to join us in these efforts. Together, we can solve hunger.” To get involved, visit http://www. solvehungertoday.org/events.
Giannoulias to FDA: Action on Red Dye No. 3 and BVO too little, too late Secretary of State
Following the U.S. Food and Drug Administration’s (FDA) order banning the use of Red Dye No. 3 in food products, Illinois Secretary of State Alexi Giannoulias renewed his call for an overhaul of the rules governing food additives to eliminate toxic chemicals from the food supply, including candy, snacks and soda.
Last year, Giannoulias pushed for the Illinois Food Safety Act to ensure a healthier food marketplace for Illinois families. The bill called for prohibiting the use of brominated vegetable oil, potassium bromate, propylparaben, Red Dye No. 3 and titanium dioxide—all of which have been
TUESDAY CLOSED
Mon., Wed., Fri. 11:00am-9:00pm Saturday
will continue to push FDA to take meaningful action on food additives
linked to serious health problems, including hyperactivity, nervous system damage, reproductive issues, hormonal damage and increased risk of cancer.
Prior to its action on Red Dye No. 3, the FDA banned the use of Brominated Vegetable Oil (BVO) last July, citing links to thyroid issues. The FDA had authorized the use of Red Dye No. 3 and BVO since the 1960s, equating to decades of consumer exposure to the dangerous additives and their associated health risks. The banning of Red Dye No. 3 in food came 35 years after it was barred from cosmetics because of cancer risks.
“Allowing the company that produces the food to decide if a chemical is safe—without having to inform the FDA—makes no sense and results in a dangerous game for American families to play,” Giannoulias said.
“While the recent bans on Red Dye No. 3 and brominated vegetable oil are a step in the right direction, these actions are long overdue and a drop in the bucket considering all the additives linked to negative health outcomes that remain on shelves today.
In the absence of decisive action on the part of federal authorities, Illinois must step in to keep dangerous additives out of the marketplace.”
For decades, the “generally recognized as safe” (GRAS) designation has allowed food manufacturers— not the FDA—to decide if chemical additives are safe for consumption. This legal loophole has allowed food dyes, preservatives and other chemicals to be placed on store shelves with little to no oversight from the FDA, the federal agency tasked with ensuring food is safe. Many of these GRAS ingredients have been linked to serious health problems and chronic diseases.
The Secretary of State oversees Illinois’ organ donation registry, which is one of the largest in the na-
tion. Studies have shown that organ damage and failure is a consequence of the health risks associated with chemical additives, particularly in children. Keeping donors’ organs healthy for individuals suffering from life-threatening diseases or injuries who need transplants is critical.
European and other nations have outlawed many GRAS chemicals and mandate that corporations formulate their products with safer alternatives.
In the U.S., California recently passed a law that outlaws several harmful chemicals in the food supply that goes into effect in 2027.
Groups demand release of after-school program funding Programs close, staff laid
By Peter Hancock CAPITOL NEWS ILLINOIS
Organizations that provide tutoring, recreation and other after-school programs are calling on Gov. JB Pritzker and the Illinois State Board of Education to release $50 million that was included in this year’s budget to fund those programs.
The organizations say tens of thousands of students are being denied access to services because the money is not being spent.
“The General Assembly knew the importance of these programs and heard our caution that funds were
off while $50 million in funding remains unspent
ending, so they saw fit to include $50 million for these programs in the FY 25 budget,” Susan Stanton, executive director of the advocacy group ACT Now, said at a recent news conference.
The programs in question normally receive federal funding through the Nita M. Lowey 21 st Century Community Learning Centers program. They include programs such as local YMCA chapters, Boys & Girls Club and other organizations.
That money flows through ISBE, which awards competitive grants. Those grants are made in three-year
or five-year cycles, and at the end of each cycle, the grants can either be renewed or the organization can reapply through a new competitive grant process. In 2023, however, ISBE miscalculated how much federal funding would be available and made commitments to award more grants than the state could afford to fund.
As a result, many organizations whose grant cycles came due in 2024 could not get them renewed because there was no federal funding available.
As a result, ACT Now and many of the after-school programs it
Police department’s remote tire deflation units provide increased safety for officers and innocent drivers
The Elmhurst Police Department noted last week that it has deployed remote tire deflation units to its patrol officers to bring dangerous pursuits to safer endings.
“Fleeing police is dangerous business, especially for innocent motorists on the roadway,” related last week’s statement from the police department. The statement added that the remote tire deflation units are much safer for police officers than the nonremote units.
“Unlike devices that require officers to stand on the side of the road and endanger themselves by throwing devices by hand, these [remote] units allow the officers to deploy tire deflation spikes remotely from a safe distance to stop fleeing criminals
and bring them to justice,” mentioned the police department’s statement.
“We had a great example of our technology in the early morning hours of Jan. 24,” added the statement from the Elmhurst Police Department. “A fleeing driver was pursued through south Elmhurst by neighboring police officers. Elmhurst’s Beat 4 patrol officer set up his tire deflation unit ahead and deflated all four of the offender’s tires as he got on I-290. The fleeing car came to a stop and the driver was arrested for DUI and aggravated fleeing and eluding,” the statement noted.
“This investment in technology stops dangerous pursuits, keeps officers safer and apprehends criminals in Elmhurst.”
“ There’s no amount of private philanthropy that exists to fill the hole that we’re looking at right now.”
– Susan Stanton, executive director
represents sought, and received, $50 million in state funding in this year’s budget to make up for the loss of federal funding.
But now, seven months into the fiscal year, none of that money has been released by ISBE. Stanton said that while some organizations have been able to continue operating, many have been forced to close their doors and lay off staff, cutting off access to after-school programs to as many as 27,000 youths in Illinois, mainly in high-minority and lower-income communities.
“There’s no amount of private philanthropy that exists to fill the hole that we’re looking at right now,” she said. “We’re looking at about a $50 million hole statewide … and I encourage you to contact any private family foundation or community foundation or philanthropic group in Illinois, and they will tell you that they don’t have $50 million sitting around for this.”
In an email, a spokesperson for
Athlete of the Month Athlete of the Month
Reagan Mowry
Senior Captain Reagan Mowry is a fourth-year athlete on the Timothy Christian cheer team, recently named an All-Conference athlete for the second year in a row. Reagan has led the Timothy cheer team to multiple conference championships and state appearances over the past three years. She has also been named NCA All-American at NCA summer camps. As she closes out her senior year, Reagan is heading into the sectional competition with multiple first-place wins. Congratulations to our athlete of the month Reagan Mowry for an amazing job!!
Recognized by
ISBE said the agency would like to see the organizations receive their funding as well, but they need more direction from the legislative leaders about how they want the money distributed.
The spokesperson noted that while the money was included in the omnibus appropriations bill that lawmakers passed in May last year, it was not tied to any existing statutory program that outlines a method for distributing the funds.
“We understand the urgency surrounding after-school programming and remain committed to ensuring that these resources are allocated in a way that best serves students and families across Illinois,” the spokesperson said. “At the request of the General Assembly, ISBE is awaiting their direction before proceeding. “
But state Rep. Will Guzzardi, D-Chicago, one of the lead budget negotiators for the House Democratic caucus, said in an interview that lawmakers are equally frustrated that the money hasn’t been released.
“We feel as though we gave the agency the appropriations authority that it needs to disperse these funds and make sure these programs can continue to operate,” he said. “But certainly, if ISBE needs further guidance from the General Assembly, we’re happy to provide it to make sure that they perform their statutory responsibility.”
Sport S
IC Catholic Prep girls basketball team
defeats De La Salle in GCAC tournament
Knights play St. Edward and Chicago Latin School this week
By Mike Miazga CORRESPONDENT
The IC Catholic Prep girls basketball team went 1-3 in the recent Girls Catholic Athletic Conference tournament. All teams from the GCAC Red and White divisions were combined into the one tournament.
The Knights (14-12), who compete in the GCAC White, opened play with a 57-25 loss to No. 6 tournament seed and host New Lenox Providence Catholic, which is a member of the GCAC Red. Mary Kate Hilgart led the Knights, the No. 11 seed in the tournament, with eight points. Libby Phillips had five points and three rebounds, while Maura Grogan had four points and six rebounds.
“Providence is a very good upper-division team,” ICCP coach Todd Fisher said. “They shot very well from the floor. We shot very well from the floor, but we did not take care of the ball very well. We turned the ball over too much.” ICCP shot 40 percent from the field against the Celtics, but turned the ball over 29 times. “When we had the opportunity to score we did, but we did not take care of the ball,” Fisher said. Providence led 15-10 after the first quarter, but outscored ICCP 23-2 in the second quarter and 17-8 in the third.
The Knights then defeated No. 14 seed and
fellow White Division entrant Chicago De La Salle 34-32 in a tournament game held at Loyola Academy in Wilmette. Hilgart had 13 points and three rebounds. Freshman Demi Dimitrakos had 11 points and five rebounds.
“We played very good defense,” Fisher said.
“To hold a team to 32 points is very good for us. It came down to free throws at the end and we knocked down free throws and had some good stops. It was a good tournament victory for us.”
ICCP then lost 44-29 to Burbank St. Laurence, also a White Division member, at Chicago Resurrection. St. Laurence was the No. 10 seed. “We did not shoot very well against St. Laurence,” Fisher said. Hilgart had eight points and three rebounds, while Phillips had five points, three rebounds and two steals and Grogan had four points, six rebounds and two assists. ICCP shot 21 percent from the floor. “I know if we shot better, the outcome may have been a little different,” Fisher said.
The Knights wrapped up the tournament with a 48-44 loss to Chicago Resurrection (White Division) at Fenwick in Oak Park. Resurrection was the No. 12 seed. ICCP faces Elgin St. Edward and Chicago Latin School this week in a pair of non-conference games.
“We have two very good opponents in St.
Edward and Latin that will get us ready for the postseason,” Fisher said. “If St. Edward can take care of business, they can go far in Class 1A. Latin is the same thing. They are a very good Class 2A opponent going into the postseason. These games are getting us ready for the postseason.” Hilgart and Grogan were named to the all-GCAC White Division team.
“We are kind of in that mode right now where we are one week away from the postseason,” Fisher said. “We have to get ready for that. We have kids who have been injured who are getting healthy. We need to get back to how we were playing in December when we went on a good winning streak. With injuries, we have played around with different starting lineups and different personnel. We are working to find matchups that could work for us moving forward in the postseason.”
ICCP opens Class 2A postseason play Tuesday, Feb. 18 at home against the winner of Saturday’s Chicago Our Lady Of Tepeyec and Chicago Cristo Rey Jesuit regional play-in game. If ICCP wins, it would play the winner of Timothy Christian-Chicago Acero-Soto for the regional title Friday, Feb. 21 at 7 p.m. at IC Catholic Prep. IC Catholic Prep is the No. 2 seed in one sub-sectional of the Class 2A Lisle sectional. Timothy is the No. 3 seed.
the all-
Catholic Athletic Conference
Division team. Grogan and Hilgart helped the Knights go 4-2 in GCAC White action. They were two of 13 players from the seven White Division schools (Aurora Central, Resurrection, ICCP, De La Salle, St. Laurence, Rosary and St. Francis) to earn the honor.
York girls bowling team takes regional crown by six pins
Lewandowski finishes third, rolls third-highest
game in
tournament
By Mike Miazga CORRESPONDENT
The York girls bowling team won some postseason hardware in exciting fashion recently. The Dukes won the Glenbard East regional title at Bowlero in Glendale Heights by six pins thanks to a final-game push that saw them erase a more-than 60-pin deficit. York finished with a total pinfall of 5,193, edging second-place Berwyn-Cicero Morton (5,187). Glenbard East out of Lombard was third at 4,925. It was York’s fifth regional title (all under current coach Katie Turnbull), third since 2020 and first since 2022.
On the team scoring front, York led after the first game 902-832 over Morton (Glenbard East was at 799). After two games, Morton led 1,695-1,677 (Glenbard East moved to 1,660).
Heading into the lunch break, Morton extended its lead to 2,626-2,589 with East falling behind to 2,425.
After the lunch break, Morton further added to its lead, moving up to a 3,492-3,435 advantage over the Dukes through four games (Glenbard East fell 292 pins behind at this point). Morton led by 61 pins — 4,385-4,324 — heading into the final game.
In the sixth and final game, York’s five scoring bowlers went 212-200188, 158 and 111 for an 869 game, while Morton’s scoring bowlers had scores of 194, 160, 160, 149 and 139. The 67-pin difference in the finale was enough for York to secure first place and win the regional title. York was powered in that final game by the efforts of senior Ava Lewandowski, who rolled a 212, junior Cailyn Ziola, who bowled a 200 and junior Ella Shea, who recorded a 188.
Lewandowski led York with a 1,156 series at Bowlero. She had high games of 246, 212, 195 and 189.
Shea finished with a 1,111 series with high games of 203, 190, 188, 185 and 184 in a consistent performance. Ziola bowled a 1,044 series with high games of 200, 179, 175 and 173. Junior Lindsay Valdivia finished with a 980 series with high games of 184 and 178, while junior Skylar Johnson finished with a 902 series with high games of 193 and 180.
Lewandowski finished third individually and her 246 was the third-highest game in the tournament.
Shea took ninth, Ziola 16th, Valdivia 18th and Johnson 19th — meaning all five York bowlers finished in the top
20 in the regional tournament. York competes in the Chicago De La Salle sectional Saturday at Bowlero in Lyons where berths in next weekend’s state finals meet outside Rockford will be on the line. York is looking for its 10th trip to state as a team (and 9th under Turnbull’s direction).
Also at Glenbard East, Timothy Christian finished 12th as a team. Freshman Parker Mowry led the way for the Trojans with a 743 series. Senior Avery Van Prooyen had Timothy’s high game for the tournament with a 142.
York girls gymnastics team wins Addison Trail regional title
Sophomore Veselovky first in four events, including all-around competition
By Mike Miazga
The York girls gymnastics team had a dominant showing at the recent Addison Trail regional. The Dukes won the regional team title with a score of 140.450, ahead of second-place Geneva at 136.375. It was York’s first girls gymnastics regional
title since 2001 and only the fourth since 1987 (the 1986-1987 and 19871988 teams qualified for state).
York’s regional score of 140.450 was the 12th highest in the state among all the regional competitions, trailing Downers Grove South (148.235), St. Charles North (145.3), Lincoln-Way East (144.35), Crystal
Lake Prairie Ridge (143.675), Oswego (143.3), New Trier (143.15), Lake Forest (142.6), Vernon Hills (142.3), Gurnee Warren (141.425), Hinsdale South (141.3) and Mundelein Carmel (140.750).
The Dukes competed in the Glenbard West sectional earlier this week where team and individual berths in
the state finals meet Feb. 21-22 at Palatine High School were on the line. The top five finishers in individual events and the all-around competition automatically made the state meet (at-large berths also were available), while the sectional team champion also automatically qualified. On the vault at Addison Trail, York
sophomore Melania Veselovsky won the event with a score of 9.3.
Mia
also advanced
ing third with an 8.9. On uneven parallel bars, Veselovsky was first with a 9.275, while senior
was third at 8.825. Carone also ad-
SUBMITTED PHOTO Elmhurst Independent IC Catholic Prep girls basketball players Maura Grogan (left) and Mary Kate Hilgart were recently named to
Girls
White
Senior
Carone
after tak-
Hayley Schiltz
Elmhurst Public Library programs
Friday, Feb. 14 • 2-4 p.m.
Friday Features:
“Million Dollar Baby”
Registration required.
Monday, Feb. 17
10 a.m.-noon Scrabble
Catholic Prep graduate headed to Le Moyne
York boys basketball team defeats
Enjoy an afternoon at the movies. Find each week’s featured film at elmlib.org/Friday.
No registration required.
Saturday, Feb. 15
feel like I would be so bored without it because it has been such a big part of my life.”
10 a.m.-2 p.m.
Canasta: Open Play
Leslie said she has plenty of memories from IC Catholic Prep’s coach Nancy Kerrigan’s program.
Join us for a friendly game of Canasta every week. Prior experience is required.
Play a friendly game of Scrabble. All skill levels welcome.
Live in-person. No registration required.
Monday, Feb. 17
1:30-3 p.m.
Tuesday, Feb. 18
1-3 p.m.
Bridge and Pinochle
Enjoy and afternoon of card games every week. Prior experience is required.
No registration required.
Tuesday, Feb. 18 2-3 p.m.
Coloring for Mindfulness
Lyons Township in 2 overtimes
Dukes honor seniors in win over Proviso West
By Mike Miazga CORRESPONDENT
Live in-person. No registration required.
Sunday, Feb. 16 • Noon-1 p.m.
Family Sensory Hour
An opportunity for children with special needs to use the Kids’ Library in a safe and welcoming environment before the library opens.
“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.”
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.”
Leslie said she is scheduled to report to Le Moyne in the Aug. 1215 timeframe, but noted preseason volleyball activities already have
huge rah-rah person. I’m a little bit more of an individual players’ coach. will pull kids to the side at practice and games and teach them.”
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
Memory Café: Golden Age of Hollywood Individuals with Alzheimer’s Disease, dementia, or other cognitive or memory impairment disorders, as well as their caregivers, are welcome to join us each month for themed activities that encourage reminiscing and spark memories.
Choose from beautiful designs and become absorbed in the joy of coloring.
Live in-person. Registration required.
Tuesday, Feb. 18 • 7-8 p.m.
Fans of the York and Lyons Township boys basketball teams saw the equivalent of three-plus games this season, even though the teams have played twice. After a three-overtime saga in Elmhurst on Jan. 10 (a 59-57 York win), the teams followed it up with a recent double-overtime West Suburban Conference Silver Division tussle at the LT North campus in La Grange — won by York, 5249, when Connor Fitzgerald sank a 3-pointer with four seconds left in the second extra session.
“ These are guys who have been around who have been great mentors and leaders in the program. They do the right things on and off the court.”
– York coach Mike Dunn
Live in-person. Registration required.
bored without it because it has been such a big part of my life.”
– Bella Leslie
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.”
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.”
ble and transparent and communicate with everybody.”
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, espe cially 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
Diana: The Reluctant Princess
Iconic and charismatic, Princess Diana of Wales was an unforgettable personality. Join storyteller Megan Wells as she brings “the people’s princess” to life. This warm, honest portrayal is a trip to Buckingham Palace you will not soon forget.
Live in-person and on Zoom. Registration required.
Wednesday, Feb. 19
10 a.m.-1 p.m.
American mahjong: open play
Gather every Wednesday for American mahjong, a game of skill, strategy, calculation, and a certain amount of chance.
Live in-person. No registration required.
Thursday, Feb. 20
10:30 a.m.-noon
Genealogy: Germans to America’s Midwest (1848-1900)
Over 46 million Americans have some German ancestry. The largest German immigration wave to American occurred during 1848-1900, and the majority of those immigrants settled in the Midwest.
“Obviously, it was a great win,” York coach Mike Dunn said. “We’ve played five overtimes with them in the two games. Lyons is good. They are a solid team like we are. It shows how competitive the conference is. It was a very competitive game, back and forth. It was a typical West Suburban game. We were lucky to get a chance and have Connor hit a shot like that.” Fitzgerald led the Dukes with 23 points. Hunter Stepanich added 11 points. York made 76 defensive plays in Dunn’s scoring system, led by Brendan Carroll with 20. York then downed Proviso West 61-51 in a WSC Silver game on senior night in Elmhurst. Fitzgerald led the Dukes with 16 points, while Carroll added 15 points and Stepanich had 14 points. Carroll was tops on the defensive plays chart again with 16. “Brendan Carroll was very good,” Dunn said. “He’s a senior and has been our point guard all year.”
U12 baseball action
In addition to Carroll and Fitzgerald, other York seniors who were honored included Eddy Sica, James DeCicco, John Kellam, Danny Libert and Bennie Nikoleit. “All eight seniors played,” Dunn said of the Proviso West game. “These are guys who have been around who have
been great mentors and leaders in the program. They do the right things on and off the court.”
York then succumbed to Libertyville 45-38 in a non-conference game. Stepanich led York with 16 points, while Fitzgerald added 15 points. “It was a tough game,” Dunn said. “Libertyville is solid. We had our chances, and we were not able to pull it out. Overall, it was a good week. We will take two out of three, but you would always like to get all three.”
York returns to the WSC Silver trail this week with games against Downers Grove North (20-7, 5-3 through late last week) and Glenbard West (20-5, 7-2) through late last week), teams that occupy two of the three top spots in the league, both trailing Silver leader Hinsdale Central (26-2, 9-1).
York faces Glenbard West Friday at home.
Heading into this week, York was 13-14 overall and 3-6 in WSC Silver play. “We’ve had a good last two weeks,” Dunn said. “Libertyville was a tough loss, but the kids are playing hard. We have done some good things, and we will continue to improve.”
• Gymnastics
(Continued from page 13)
vanced with a fourth-place 8.475 score. The top five individuals in each event automatically advanced.
The balance beam saw Veselovsky win the event with a 9.025 score.
Freshman Lily Zmrhal was second at 8.725, while Schiltz took fourth and qualified for sectionals with an 8.65 score.
York had four gymnasts advance to sectionals on the floor exercise.
Veselovsky was second at 9.225, while Carone was third at 9.15 and Schiltz was fourth at 9.125. Zmrhal tied for fifth and moved on with an 8.75 effort.
In the all-around scoring, Veselovsky was the regional champion at 36.825.
Melania Veselovsky York Girls Gymnastics
Veselovsky,
She tallied a 36.825 in the all-around scoring
Carone took third at 35.025, while Schiltz was fourth at 34.7.
Zmrhal was fifth at 33.75
York also had two individual atlarge qualifiers.
Sophomore Magdalen Munoz qualified for sectionals as an atlarge on the balance beam, while freshman Kate Evers made it on floor exercise.
SUDOKU
Fun by the Numbers
Like puzzles? Then you’ll love sudoku. This mind-bending puzzle will have you hooked from the moment you square off, so sharpen your pencil and put your sudoku savvy to the test! Here’s How It Works: Sudoku puzzles are formatted as a 9x9 grid, broken down into nine 3x3 boxes. To solve a sudoku, the numbers 1 through 9 must fill each row, column and box. Each number can appear only once in each row, column and box. You can figure out the order in which the numbers will appear by using the numeric clues already provided in the boxes. The more numbers you name, the easier it gets to solve the puzzle!
CLUES ACROSS
1. Racquet sport group (abbr.)
4. Norse god of thunder
8. Russian industrial city
10. What’s good for the __
11. Round-ish shape
12. Baltimore MLBer
13. French modernist painter
15. Burned with water
16. Intestinal issue
17. Take the lead
18. Prove oneself worthy
21. None
22. Tax collector
23. Swiss river
24. Gymnast Raisman
25. Baby’s dining accessory
26. Canadian beer distributor
27. Iconic American tourist
destination
34. More expansive
35. Alert
36. Popular boots Doc __
37. Showings
38. Conclusion
39. Share a common boundary
40. Shooting sport
41. Popular side dish
42. Global energy firm
43. Chronicles (abbr.)
CLUES DOWN
1. Type of bomb
2. Polynesian island country
3. Heavenly body
4. Hard workers
5. Covered
6. Johns Hopkins Hospital
founder
7. Plant of the grass family
9. Island person of the Bering Sea 10. Storehouse
12. Scarlet-flowered desert shrub
14. A pituitary hormone
15. Female sibling
17. Monetary unit of Afghanistan
19. Empowering
20. Space station
23. Disorder
24. State of fuss
25. Footwear for babies
26. Nuclear reactor (abbr.)
27. Droves
28. Affirmative
29. Male parent
30. Utter obscenities
31. Type of verse
32. Unpleasant person
33. One who settles down
34. Founder of source-based history
36. A way to snarl
Lawmakers introduce bills to punish sexual assault in schools, end fossil fuel investments
Bills are among more than 2,000 filed last month
By Ben Szalinski, Jade Aubrey and UIS Public Affairs Reporting
Republican lawmakers put forward a proposal to expel students who sexually assault another student at school.
Current Illinois law has no provisions requiring schools to expel a student who commits sexual violence or assault against another student at school. However, the law says that if a student brings firearms, knives, brass knuckles, or any other weapon that can be used to cause bodily harm into a school, they must be expelled for at least a year.
Sen. Steve McClure, R-Springfield, said the goal of Senate Bill 98 is to force schools to confront and deal with issues of sexual assault at a school or any activity or event related to a school.
He said this issue was brought to his attention when he caught wind of an incident that involved a 10-year-old girl in Taylorville.
The girl’s mother, Ashley Peden, spoke alongside McClure at a Capitol news conference on Wednesday in support of the bill. Peden, who is a teacher in Springfield, said the way that the Taylorville school district handled the assault against her daughter caused her to rethink her decision to be a teacher.
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ed that,” she said.
Peden said after several meetings with the school board and multiple court orders, the student was removed from her daughter’s school and sent to an alternative school for the rest of the spring semester. However, in August, she received a phone call about the student’s reentry into her daughter’s school and again asked the school to remove the student.
“We have laws where a student gets expelled for bringing a weapon on school grounds, but what about cases like this, when the student’s body is the weapon?” Peden said. “This boy continuously brought his weapon to school on the bus and to the bus stop. This is not acceptable. This is not ensuring safety for all students.”
McClure said the bill is aimed at stopping schools from sweeping issues of sexual assault under the rug.
“What’s happening right now is silence in these schools,” McClure said. “Because they’re not telling the parents in some cases, and other students aren’t even aware of what’s happening. That’s a danger to them as well.”
“The lack for safety of all students has been a concern of mine from the very beginning, so much that at one point I was asked, ‘are you worried about your daughter or the other students,’” she said. “To which I quickly replied, ‘I’m worried about every single one of them, aren’t you?’”
Peden said that between late January and early February 2024, her 10-year-old daughter was sexually assaulted by an older student who was 14 years old on their school bus and at their bus stop. The assaults increased in severity every day until the final assault, where her daughter was chased from her bus stop and raped.
After reporting the incident, Peden said she obtained an emergency order of protection for her daughter and brought it to the principal of Taylorville Junior High School, who made a “safety plan” for her daughter. Peden said the plan prohibited the accused student from coming into contact with her daughter at school, which the order of protection already called for.
“This safety plan was shared with the bus company, my daughter’s fifth grade teacher and office staff,” Peden said. “No one else knew of the assaults. No one else knew of the safety plan.”
“As an educator myself, I have been a part of a situation where all staff needed to know about something about a student. It was as simple as an email saying, ‘Student A should not be in the presence of Student B, we need to keep them apart.’ I asked for it to be just as generic as that, and I was not grant -
Rep. C.D. Davidsmeyer, R-Murrayville, filed an identical bill in the House. He said this issue needs to be addressed in schools across the state.
“It’s not punishment for the individual who committed the crime,” he said. “It’s to protect all of our kids and to ensure that the people who committed the crimes get the help that they need.”
Divesting pensions from fossil fuels
Some Illinois Democrats are pushing the General Assembly to pass legislation that would require the state’s five pension systems to divest from fossil fuel companies. Under Senate Bill 130, the pension systems for legislators, state employees, university employees, teachers and judges would be prohibited from investing in any fossil fuel companies or their affiliates.
Pension systems would be required to complete divestment in fossil fuel companies by 2030 but would be prohibited from making any new investments in them once the bill is signed by the governor.
Fossil fuel companies covered under the legislation include subsidiaries, affiliates and parent com
panies of 200 publicly traded com
panies with the largest fuel reserves in the world, the 30 largest public companies owning coal-fired power plants and any company with fossil fuel operations at the core of its business.
Supporters of the bill said it is important Illinois not financially support fossil fuel companies as the state moves toward clean energy goals. Those goals include requiring coal and gas power plants close by 2045.
NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING
ZONING AND PLANNING
COMMISSION/ZONING BOARD OF APPEALS
CASE NUMBER 25 P 01
Requests for Conditional Use Permit for a Planned Unit Development with Site Development Allowances, Map Amendment and Plat of Subdivision (Consolidation)
Notice is hereby given that the Elmhurst Zoning and Planning Commission/Zoning Board of Appeals will hold a public hearing on Tuesday, March 4, 2025 at 7:00 p.m., in the Elmhurst City Hall, 209 N. York Street, Elmhurst, Illinois. The purpose of this hearing is to consider a request by Kevin Schoolcraft (Ryan Companies) on behalf of Edward-Elmhurst Health (Dr. Kim Darey, President), for a map amendment (rezoning upon annexation) from R1 Single Family Residence District to C2 Community Shopping and Service District for the following properties:
0S551 Kendall Ave., Elmhurst, IL 601265205 (06-13-305-015);
0S561 Kendall Ave., Elmhurst, IL 601265205 (06-13-305-006);
0S571 Kendall Ave., Elmhurst, IL 601265205 (06-13-305-007); and
A request for Conditional Use Permit to Amend the Preliminary PUD approved by Ordinance ZO-12-2023 and process a combined Preliminary and Final Planned Unit Development for the relocated medical office building and parking lot with Site Development Allowances pursuant to Sections 22.26 and 22.31 of the Elmhurst Zoning Ordinance; and a Plat of Subdivision (consolidation of four (4) lots into one (1) lot) at the properties commonly known as 1100 S. York Street, 0S551 Kendall Avenue, 0S561 Kendall Avenue, 0S571 Kendall Avenue, Elmhurst, IL 60126 for the purpose of constructing a medical office building and parking lot to serve both the hospital and medical office building. The proposal includes the annexation and incorporation of three (3) additional lots into a previously approved Planned Unit Development with a modified site plan.
Following are legal descriptions of the subject properties:
LOT 2 IN THE FINAL MODIFIED PLAT OF SUBDIVISION OF ELMHURST MEMORIAL HEALTHCARE YORK STREET CAMPUS, ELMHURST, DUPAGE COUNTY, ILLINOIS, BEING PART OF THE SOUTHWEST QUARTER OF SECTION 13, TOWNSHIP 39 NORTH, RANGE 11 EAST OF THE THIRD PRINCIPAL MERIDIAN, ACCORDING TO THE PLAT THEREOF RECORDED SEPTEMBER 1, 2010, AS DOCUMENT NUMBER R2010-114887.
1100 S. York Street, Elmhurst, IL 60126
PIN: 06-13-305-018
THAT PART OF LOTS 112 AND 113
LYING SOUTH OF A LINE DRAWN BETWEEN A POINT ON THE WESTERLY LINE OF SAID LOT 112 THAT IS 95.6 FEET NORTHWESTERLY OF THE
SOUTHWESTERLY CORNER OF SAID LOT 112 AND A POINT ON THE EASTERLY LINE OF SAID LOT 113 THAT IS 101.69 FEET NORTHWESTERLY OF THE SOUTHWESTERLY CORNER OF SAID LOT 113, IN FRED’K H. BARTLETTS’S COUNTRY FARM ESTATES FIRST ADDITION, BEING A SUBDIVISION OF PART OF THE WEST ½ OF SECTION 13, TOWNSHIP 39 NORTH, RANGE 11, EAST OF THE THIRD PRINCIPAL MERIDIAN, ACCORDING TO THE PLAT THEREOF RECORDED DECEMBER 17, 1938, AS DOCUMENT 395760, IN DUPAGE COUNTY, ILLINOIS.
0S551 Kendall Ave., Elmhurst, IL 601265205
Parcel 06-13-305-015
LOT 1 OF HARVARD STREET RESUBDIVISION OF LOTS 121, 122 AND 123 IN FREDERICK H. BARTLETT’S COUNTRY FARM ESTATES FIRST ADDITION, A SUBDIVISION OF PART OF THE WEST HALF OF SECTION 13, TOWNSHIP 39 NORTH, RANGE 11, EAST OF THE THIRD PRINCIPAL MERIDIAN, ACCORDING TO THE PLAT THEREOF RECORDED AUGUST 17, 1964 AS DOCUMENT R64-29887, IN DUPAGE COUNTY, ILLINOIS.
0S561 Kendall Ave., Elmhurst, IL 601265205
Parcel 06-13-305-006
LOT 2 IN HARVARD STREET RESUBDIVISION OF LOTS 121, 122 AND 123 IN FREDERICK H. BARTLETT’S COUNTRY FARM ESTATES FIRST ADDITION, A SUBDIVISION OF PART OF THE WEST HALF OF SECTION 13, TOWNSHIP 39 NORTH, RANGE 11, EAST OF THE THIRD PRINCIPAL MERIDIAN, ACCORDING TO THE PLAT THEREOF RECORDED AUGUST 17, 1964 AS DOCUMENT R64-29887, IN DUPAGE COUNTY, ILLINOIS
0S571 Kendall Ave., Elmhurst, IL 601265205
Parcel 06-13-305-007
The common street addresses are as follows:
1100 S. York Street, Elmhurst, IL. The subject property is located within the C2 Community Shopping and Service District.
0S551 Kendall Ave., Elmhurst, IL. The subject property is located within the R4 Single Family (DuPage County).
0S561 Kendall Ave., Elmhurst, IL The subject property is located within the R4 Single Family (DuPage County).
0S571 Kendall Ave., Elmhurst, IL. The subject property is located within the R4 Single Family (DuPage County).
If you have any questions regarding this case, please contact the Community Development Department at 630-530-3121.
Any person who has a disability requiring a reasonable accommodation to participate in this meeting, should contact Emily Palm, ADA Compliance Officer, Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., City of Elmhurst, 209 N. York Street, Elmhurst, IL 60126, call 630-530-3770 or email HR@
LEGAL NOTICES
elmhurst.org within a reasonable time before the meeting. Please provide as much notice as possible for sign language interpreting requests.
Eileen Franz, City Planner (Published in The Elmhurst Independent Feb. 13, 2025)
467888
NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING ZONING AND PLANNING COMMISSION/ZONING BOARD OF APPEALS
CASE NUMBER 25 P 02 Request for Conditional Use Permit for Planned Unit Development with Site Development Allowances Notice is hereby given that the Elmhurst Zoning and Planning Commission/Zoning Board of Appeals will hold a public hearing on Tuesday, March 4, 2025 at 7:00 p.m., in the Elmhurst City Hall, 209 N. York Street, Elmhurst, Illinois. The purpose of this hearing is to consider a request by Elizabeth Cerny, FGM Architects, on behalf of Visitation Catholic Church and Schools/Diocese of Joliet for a Conditional Use Permit for a Planned Unit Development with Site Development Allowances pursuant to Sections 22.26 and 22.31 of the Elmhurst Zoning Ordinance at the properties commonly known as 779 and 851 S. York Street, Elmhurst, Illinois for the purpose of constructing a new administration office addition in the same
footprint of an existing convent and adding a wall sign.
Following is a legal description of the subject property:
THAT PART OF THE NORTH HALF OF THE NORTHWEST QUARTER OF SECTION 13, TOWNSHIP 39 NORTH, RANGE 11 EAST OF THE THIRD PRINCIPAL MERIDIAN, LYING EAST OF THE CENTER OF YORK ROAD, WEST OF THE SUBDIVISION ENTITLED ARTHUR DUNAS’ SECOND ADDITION TO TUXEDO PARK, AS RECORDED DECEMBER 6, 1924 AS DOCUMENT NUMBER 185795, AND NORTH OF A LINE DESCRIBED IN DOCUMENT NUMBER 501821, IN DUPAGE COUNTY, ILLINOIS.
PIN’S: 06-13-106-005 & 006
The common street addresses are 779 and 851 S. York Street, Elmhurst, IL. The subject property is located wholly within the R2 Single Family Residence District.
If you have any questions regarding this case, please contact the Community Development Department at 630-530-3121.
Any person who has a disability requiring a reasonable accommodation to participate in this meeting, should contact Emily Palm, ADA Compliance Officer, Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., City of Elmhurst, 209 N. York Street, Elmhurst, IL 60126, call 630-530-3770 or email HR@ elmhurst.org within a reasonable time be-
fore the meeting. Please provide as much notice as possible for sign language interpreting requests.
Eileen Franz, City Planner (Published in The Elmhurst Independent Feb. 13, 2025)
467889
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
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Business & Service
HANDYMAN BILL
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Residential
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Classifieds
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.
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)
