Parade steps off at noon on Saturday, March 8, at Spring Road and Wilson Street
For the 13 th time, the Elmhurst Armpit Orchestra (EAO) men will entertain those attending the Elmhurst St. Patrick’s Day Parade. This year’s parade—the 28 th Annual Elmhurst St. Patrick’s Day Parade—is scheduled to step off at noon on Saturday, March 8, at Spring Road and Wilson Street.
The EAO plays familiar tunes, including “When the Saints Go Marching In”, on kazoos, bucket drums, vuvuzelas, cowbells, handzoo, stumpf fiddle, and other unconventional instruments.
Last year at the parade, the EAO crowned long time Elmhurst resident Barb Mulliner its 2024 Queen. The members of the EAO also recognized Chris Thomson with the Darrell Whistler EAO Spirit Award in honor of their late colleague.
The EAO honored former Elmhurst Chamber of Commerce President and CEO John Quigley with the 2024 Colleen Cecile Sutherland Distinguished Service Award.
The EAO will announce its award winners this year at its pre-parade celebration at the Elmhurst American Legion T.H.B Post 187. All are welcome to attend.
Throughout its 13 years of existence, The EAO has raised nearly $26,000 for various charities, including Elmhurst Children’s Assistance Foundation (ECAF), Access Sports, Cystic Fibrosis, Elmhurst American Legion T.H.B Post 187, the Elmhurst Hospital Cancer Center, and college scholarships for York High School music students.
The EAO also honored the No Frills Fun Run this year as that event celebrates its 14 th year of benefiting the local Elmhurst community. The No Frills Fun Run is
an annual charitable run started in 2012 by two Elmhurst moms. Each year, one local family in need is selected to receive 100 percent of the proceeds from all the funds raised across various fundraising events
and since it’s inception, the No Frills Fun Run has raised over $1 million for Elmhurst families. This year, the No Frills Fun Run hosted its event on Sunday, Feb. 23, and raised money for three wonderful
Elmhurst families.
Unlike many other entertaining parade acts, some of which also raise funds for charity, the Elmhurst Armpit Orchestra does not charge an appearance fee for the
Elmhurst St. Patrick’s Day Parade. For more information about attending, sponsoring, or entering the parade, visit https://www.elmhurststpatsparade.com or call 630834-0300.
For the 13th time, the Elmhurst Armpit Orchestra (EAO) men will provide entertainment at the Elmhurst St. Patrick’s Day Parade. This year’s parade will begin at noon on Saturday, March 8. The parade will step off at Spring Road and Wilson Avenue. The EAO uses a variety of instruments to play familiar tunes.
submitted photo Elmhurst Independent
Time is running out to make orders for First Congregational UCC’s Organic Seedlings Sale
Orders
being taken through Feb. 28
The last chance to order organic seedlings from the 11th annual Organic Seedlings Sale at the First Congregational United Church of Christ in Elmhurst is this Friday, Feb. 28.
Orders will be accepted on the church’s website: https://elmhurstucc.org/store/ through Feb. 28.
Pay by credit card on the site or find a hardcopy order form there. Print out the form and deliver it to the church office with cash or check, if you prefer, but forms will not be accepted after midnight, Feb. 28. If you are placing your order using the hardcopy form, you should drop it off at the church at 235 S. Kenilworth Ave., rather than mailing it to make sure it gets to the office by Feb. 28.
The church mailbox is on the Church Street side of the building. See the website for more details. Orders will be available for pick up at the church’s Green Garden Fair on Saturday, May 10, from 9 a.m. to noon. The fair will be on the church grounds at 235 S. Kenilworth Ave. in
Elmhurst.
With 60 different varieties of vegetable, herb and flower plants to choose from, gardeners can select their old favorites and try some new things too. Organic vegetable and herb seedlings will be provided by Baas Greenhouses, Inc. Their seedlings are grown in Mokena, which is just 30 miles south of Elmhurst, so the church is offering a very local product. Baas has been USDA Certified Organic since 2005.
Baas doesn’t provide flowers, but to be sure that our pollinator friends are taken care of, the sale will offer flower seedlings from We Grow Dreams (WGD) Greenhouse in West Chicago. The floral seedlings will not be organically grown. But We Grow Dreams provides job training and employment for the developmentally disabled, so it’s well worth it to support their mission. New this year, WGD will be providing us with Confetti Lantana loved by hummingbirds, plus they are easy to grow and beautiful.
All plants will be provided in 3½-
Elmhurst Choral Union presents medley of melodies this Saturday, March 1
Come for an evening featuring the musical selections of Broadway, opera, classical, and folk songs performed by Elmhurst Choral Union members in solo and group performances. A reception will follow.
This casual, family-friendly event takes place Saturday, March, 1, beginning at 7 p.m. at First United Methodist Church, 232 S. York St., Elmhurst.
No tickets are required, but free-will donations will be accepted to support the continuation of high-quality live performances.
The group is led by Artistic Director Scott Uddenberg, and will be ac-
companied by a full professional orchestra and professional soloists. The 60+ member chorus has rehearsed and performed since its founding in 1952 at Elmhurst University, with a mission to create outstanding choral performances for the community to appreciate and enjoy.
Elmhurst Choral Union is a non-profit organization that receives support from the Explore Elmhurst Grant Program, DuPage Foundation, Wurlitzer Grant, and the Illinois Arts Council Agency. For more information, visit elmhurstchoralunion.org or email info@ elmhurstchoralunion.org.
to 4-inch containers. For more information about the Seedlings Sale or the Green Gar-
den Fair, contact the church at elmhurstucc@sbcglobal.net or by calling 630-832-2580. You can also follow
the church on its Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/FirstCongregationalUCCofElmhurst/
Elmhurst residents enjoy Ice Fishing in Villa Park
Villa Park Sportsmen’s Club sponsored Saturday morning’s free ice fishing event
at Villa Park’s North Terrace Park. About 40 people attended the event, which offered tips
fishing safety, how to drill holes in the ice, and how to catch fish. The recent cold spell allowed participants to safely walk on the frozen pond, which was covered by about six inches of ice. One photo from Saturday shows John Darguzas of Elmhurst with his sons, (left to right) 8-year-old twins Dylan and Daniel, and 10-year-old Derrick.
Community Bank
CHRIS FOX PHOTO Elmhurst Independent
The
at the pond
on ice
It’s National Children’s Dental Health Month.
Did you know that dental-related ailments are responsible for the loss of more than 50 million school hours each year? That’s right. Thousands of children miss school every year because of some dental-related ailment. Fortunately, many of these ailments can be prevented through good oral care.
This National Children’s Dental Health Month, make your child’s smile a priority. Take them to the dentist regularly and teach them to care for their teeth properly.
The elmhursT IndependenT
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Elmhurst, IL. 60126
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The Elmhurst Independent USPS#022-607 is published every Thursday by Rock Valley Publishing, LLC, 240 N. West Avenue, Elmhurst, IL. 60126. Periodical Postage Paid at Elmhurst, IL.
The Elmhurst Independent print version is mailed to residents in the 60126 zip code with a paid donation. See inside this issue for an order form. Out-of-area mail subscriptions are $45.00 yearly. Single copies are also available at more than 80 newsstand locations in Elmhurst. For home delivery information call 630.834-8244.
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Madison Early Childhood Educator Michele Oberlin named Far West Suburbs Regional Teacher of the Year by the ISBE
Madison Early Childhood Education Center’s own Michele Oberlin has been named the Far West Suburbs Regional Teacher of the Year by the Illinois State Board of Education (ISBE), an honor recognizing her dedication, innovation, and impact on Elmhurst’s youngest learners.
Oberlin, who teaches pre-kindergarten and early childhood education at Madison, is one of 13 educators across the state selected as a finalist for 2025 Illinois Teacher of the Year, the state’s highest honor for classroom teachers.
“We are incredibly proud to celebrate Michele and this well-de-
served recognition,” said Dr. Keisha Campbell, Superintendent of Elmhurst Community Unit School District 205. “Her passion for early childhood education and commitment to student success are evident in everything she does. She creates a learning environment where our youngest learners feel valued, encouraged,
and excited to grow. Michele’s work is a true reflection of how we prepare students for their Journey of Excellence, setting a strong foundation that will benefit them for years to come.”
As a teacher at Madison Early Childhood Education Center, Oberlin has played a pivotal role in fostering an inclusive and supportive classroom where students thrive both academically and socially. Her focus on early childhood development, hands-on learning, and relationship-building has made a lasting impact on countless students and families in Elmhurst.
“Michele’s passion for early childhood education shines through in everything she does,” said Dr. Susan Kondrat, Principal of Madison Early Childhood Education Center. “She meets each child where they are, helping them develop confidence, curiosity, and a love for learning. We are incredibly proud of her and grateful for her dedication to the Madison community.”
Oberlin is now in the running for the statewide 2025 Illinois Teacher of the Year award, which will be announced later this spring. All Those Who Excel awardees will be honored at a banquet on May 17.
Music at Bethel March 16 concert features The Galway Gals
Elmhurst’s Bethel United Church of Christ, 315, E. St. Charles Road, will celebrate St. Patrick’s Day on Sunday, March 16, at 5 p.m. as part of the church’s Music at Bethel concert series. Chicagoland’s best-loved Irish duo, The Galway Gals, will take to the stage to perform traditional Irish folk music, jigs and reels, songs by modern Irish pop artists, and Irish sentimental classics. Artists include classically trained violinist Anna Gillan (left) and classically trained guitarist Liz Berg McNichols (right), who have been performing together since March 2020. Both artists participate in other musical groups, including an 80s band—The Jolly Ringwalds—and the delightful Saddle Shoe Sisters, a 40s, 50s and 60s song and dance group. But guitarist Berg McNichols has often said she has been surprised with how deeply audiences connect to Irish music. “Even [during] up-tempo, fast songs, people are crying and telling us that their grandfather used to play it, or, ‘That song was sung at my grandmother’s funeral.’ People have deep emotional connections to some of these sentimental Irish tunes,” McNichols said. “We just thought, ‘We’re putting on a good show. We’re going to sing in tune, we’re going to have some good harmonies, we’re going to have great dynamics.’ But we did not expect the emotional connection with the crowd,” she said. This will be a family-friendly event suitable for concertgoers of all ages. A reception will follow. Tickets are available on Eventbrite or at the door. Ticket prices are $25, with preferred seating $35. Admission is free for students. Parking is free and the church is accessible. Enter through Sandburg Middle School from St. Charles Road, or from Huntington off Poplar Street. For more information, visit www.musicatbethel.com or call 630-279-4040.
submitted photo Elmhurst Independent
Michele Oberlin
Sunday Worship at 10:15 am Sunday School & Bible Study 9 am Ladies Bible Fellowship Mondays at 6:30 pm
Lent and Easter Services at 7 p.m. “The Crucial Hours”
Second Lenten Service March 9, 2022
Rev. David Ernest “Satan Has Asked to Sift All of You” Jerusalem Lutheran, Morton Grove Matthew 27:15-26
Third Lenten Service March 16, 2022
Rev. Paul Spaude “What to Remember When Your are St. Matthews, Niles Seized with Remorse” Matthew 27:3-4
Ash Wednesday Service on March 5 at 7 pm Saturday, March 22, Game Night at 4 pm Everyone is Welcome! 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”
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
Feb. 17
Walter Judnic, 63, of Elmhurst, was issued a citation for battery in the 200 block of S. West at 7:13 a.m. Police said a victim reported that Judnic bumped into him and was verbally argumentative.
Criminal trespassing
Feb. 17
Phillip Breckler, 37, of Elmhurst, was issued a citation for trespassing in the 900 block of S. York at 7:20 p.m. Police said it was determined that Breckler was in violation of a no-trespass notice.
DUI, consumption of alcohol by a minor, illegal possession of alcohol
Feb. 18
Nicholas W. Lemke, 26, of Lombard, was charged with DUI, transportation of open alcohol by a driver, improper lane usage and no insurance near Grand and Church at 2:31 a.m.
Feb. 16
Nicholas Z. Sieka, 23, of Harwood Heights, was charged with DUI, possession of cannabis by a driver and disobeying a traffic control signal near Lake and West at 2:43 a.m.
Fleeing, eluding
According to information provided last week by the Elmhurst Police Department, police reported one incident 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. 14
A victim at a business in the 100 block of W. Industrial reported a former employee has been harassing the business via text messages to the company phone and made fraudulent Craigslist posts.
Identity theft, fraud
According to information provided by the Elmhurst Police Department, police reported four incidents of identity theft or fraud.
Possession of cannabis in a vehicle
According to information provided by the
Elmhurst Police Department, police reported one incident of possession of cannabis by either the driver of a vehicle or a passenger: Ishmael K. Holmes, 24, of Matteson, near Lake and Route 83 at 9:32 p.m. Feb. 13.
A victim in the 300 block of N. Route 83 reported that an unknown suspect(s) entered her unlocked vehicle, removed $10 and a small wallet containing Jewel-Osco and Mariano’s customer cards.
Feb. 18
A complainant in the 900 block of N. York reported that the furniture they placed outside went missing. Upon further investigation, it was determined that the items were mistaken to be trash by the suspect. The suspect agreed to return the furniture.
Feb. 17
A complainant at a gas station in the 1000 block of N. York reported at 10:59 p.m. that five unknown subjects came into the gas station, stole several items, and pepper-sprayed an employee.
Feb. 15
Genesis D. Salazar Buelvas, 34, and Marcos Bonilla Sanabria, 25, both of Chicago, were charged with retail theft at a store in the 300 block of S. Route 83 at 3:41 p.m. Police said both suspects were arrested on the above date for an incident that allegedly occurred on Oct. 8, 2024.
Feb. 13
A complainant at a business in the 500 block of W. Lamont reported an unknown suspect(s) had fraudulently applied for a loan with the business in an attempt to obtain a large quantity of tools. The loan was approved, and several tools were shipped to a business in Georgia. A reporting officer responded to a car dealership in the 500 block of W. Lake for a delayed theft report. The complainant reported an unknown suspect is seen on video entering the business and removing four hubcaps from a vehicle. The suspect left the area in a red sedan.
Feb. 12
Police said a reporting officer responded to a delayed retail theft report at a store in the 300 block of S. Route 83. The complainant reported three unknown suspects entered the store and took merchandise without paying.
Feb. 8
A victim in the 100 block of N. York reported a suspect sold them a counterfeit Rolex.
Feb. 2-Feb. 11
A victim reported her grandson’s and parents’ bronze urns were stolen from their burial site sometime between the above dates.
Warrant arrest
Feb. 15
Police said that subsequent to a neighbor dispute in the 400 block of N. Van Auken at 8:57 a.m., Gerald L Pellegrini, 67, of Elmhurst, was found to have a failure to appear warrant for criminal damage to property. Pellegrini was placed under arrest, transported to the police station, processed on the warrant, issued a citation for no valid driver’s license and transported to the DuPage County Jail.
Three Cook County individuals charged in theft of high-end SUV; fourth subject faces weapons charges
All four defendants taken into custody after a 130-mph chase
DuPage County State’s Attorney
Robert Berlin and Villa Park Chief of Police Michael Rivas announced on Saturday, Feb. 22, that Judge Kentin Skarin had granted the state’s motion to detain three Cook County residents accused of stealing a high-end SUV earlier this month and leading police on a high-speed chase. A fourth individual allegedly involved, Jocelyn Gonzalez, 22, of Chicago, was not detained.
Xavier Carrasco, 19, of Lynwood, Matthew Perez, 24, of Chicago, and Mariano Martinez, 18, of Chicago, each appeared in court on Saturday. Carrasco and Martinez are both charged with one count of aggravated possession of a stolen motor vehicle (a Class 1 felony), one count of theft –over $10,000 (a Class 1 felony), one count of burglary (a Class 2 felony), one count of possession of a stolen motor vehicle (a Class 2 felony) and one count of aggravated fleeing and eluding (a Class 4 felony).
Perez is charged with two counts of aggravated possession of a stolen motor vehicle, two counts of aggravated unlawful use of a weapon (a Class 4 felony) and one count of aggravated fleeing and eluding (a Class 4 felony).
Gonzalez is charged with one count of aggravated unlawful use of a weapon and one count of aggravated fleeing and eluding.
On Feb. 11, the Elmhurst Police Department began an investigation into the theft of a 2020 Jeep Grand Cherokee SRT, valued at approximately $54,000, which was stolen from the Al Piemonte Buick GMC dealership at 364 W. Grand Ave., Elmhurst. Following that investigation, it is alleged that at approximately 4:40 a.m. on Feb. 11, a black Cadillac SUV drove in through the overhead service doors at the dealership. It is alleged that a Chevrolet SS arrived on scene and a male, later identified as Carrasco, exited the Chevrolet, entered the dealership, retrieved keys for the Jeep and fled the scene in the Jeep.
The investigation also found that the Cadillac had allegedly been stolen by Martinez from My Choice Motors, located approximately half a mile away from the dealership, at 530 W. Grand Ave., just a few minutes before. It is alleged that a short time later, the vehicles went to a gas station in Berkeley and fled the gas station at a high rate of speed when a Berkeley police officer pulled into the gas station.
On Feb. 20, at approximately 1:15 a.m., while conducting a routine patrol near a car dealership, a Lisle police officer observed headlights in the parking lot. It is alleged that when the officer began to investigate, a Jeep Grand Cherokee that matched the description of the stolen Jeep fled the scene on Ogden Avenue and entered eastbound I-88.
A short time later, a Villa Park police officer observed the Jeep, with no lights on, traveling at a high rate of speed eastbound on I-88. The officer activated his emergency lights and siren and began pursuit. It is alleged that the Jeep did not pull over and continued eastbound on I-88, at times reaching speeds of approximately 130 mph.
It is further alleged that the pursuit continued, with multiple agencies assisting including a Chicago Police Department helicopter, onto I-290 eastbound. It is further alleged that in an attempt to avoid spike strips, the Jeep swerved around an Oak Brook police officer, almost striking him, and continued to drive eastbound on I-290, swerving in and out of traffic and reaching speed of approximately 126 mph.
It is further alleged that near the 17th Street exit, after apparently losing control of the Jeep due to losing the front passenger side tire, four individuals, later identified as the defendants, exited the Jeep, jumped over the concrete median and fled on foot across I-290. With assistance from a Chicago Police Department helicopter, all four defendants were taken into custody following a foot chase.
It is further alleged that during the foot chase, Perez threw a Glock 20 handgun over a fence and that Martinez was found to be in possession of a magazine that matched the Glock 20 handgun. When searching the Jeep, authorities found a loaded AR rifle with 28 rounds in the magazine and a
Springfield Armory 9mm Hellcat that was reported stolen out of Cicero.
“The blatant disregard for the rule of law allegedly exhibited by these defendants is astonishing,” Berlin said.
“The successful apprehension of these four defendants sends a loud and clear message that in DuPage County, we will not tolerate the type of lawless, dangerous behavior as alleged in this case. We will use every tool available to us, including a helicopter and our partners in law enforcement to go after those who break the law and put the public at risk. We are all very thankful that no innocent bystanders or motorists were injured as a result of the defendants’ alleged behavior.
I thank the Villa Park Police Department for their outstanding police work that led to the apprehension of these four defendants. The apprehension of the defendants in this case was indeed a team effort and I want to recognize the Elmhurst, Oak Brook, Berkeley, Maywood, Forest Park, Broadview and Lisle Police Departments as well as the Illinois State Police for their cooperation and assistance in bringing this matter to a successful conclusion.
I especially thank the Chicago Police Department for air support that was instrumental in apprehending the defendants once the defendants allegedly fled their vehicle. I also thank Assistant State’s Attorneys Kevin Kosman and Nicholas Covert for their efforts in securing strong charges against the defendants.”
“The alleged actions of those sub-
jects charged are truly disturbing,” Chief Rivas stated. “All four subjects showed a blatant disregard for public safety and for the properties of others. The public should be reminded to pull over for emergency lights and sirens.
The public should also be reminded that all who commit violent crimes in our area will be met with all lawful resources available to put a stop to these criminal acts. I want to thank the brave men and women of the Villa Park Police Department for their tireless commitment to arresting all violent criminals who come through our area. Once the subjects were taken into custody it was truly a team effort for patrol, investigations, and our records department to process, investigate and care for the subjects while in our custody. The Villa Park Police Department is very successful at taking alleged violent offenders into custody. We do not act alone, and we are thankful to the police departments of Elmhurst, Oak Brook, Chicago and several Cook County Departments for the excellent coordination of tactics, communication, and investigations in this case. We would also like to thank DuPage County State’s Attorney Bob Berlin and his thorough team of Assistant State’s Attorneys who worked so hard to charge the alleged offenders with the 19 felonies.”
The next court appearance for Carrasco, Perez and Martinez is scheduled for March 7. Gonzalez’s next court appearance is scheduled for March 17.
This year’s Bags for Wags event raises about $9,500
submitted photo Elmhurst Independent
The Brian E. Wagner Scholarship Fund (BEWSF) held its 14th annual Bags for Wags bean bag tournament at Visitation Parish earlier this month. The Feb. 8 event raised approximately $9,500. Pictured at the event are 2021 scholarship recipient Mickey Vreeland (second from right) with his parents and BEWSF Director Mike Wagner (far right). The BEWSF was established in memory of Brian Edward Wagner, an Elmhurst native who died at the age of 16 in auto accident in 1993.
DOUGLAS A. PETERSON, 66
Douglas A. Peterson, age 66 of Elmhurst, IL, passed away on Friday, February 14, 2025.
Beloved husband of Cindy Peterson; loving father of Julie (Thomas Latrofa) Peterson, Brian (Rayna) Peterson and the late Danielle Peterson; cherished son of Richard Ivor and Barbara (née Davis) Peterson; dear brother of William (Carol Ann) Peterson, Richard Peterson, Michael (Leslie) Peterson, Kristen Need and John (Aishling) Peterson; fond uncle of many.
Douglas and Cindy co-owned and operated Chicago Records Management, Inc. and he was on the management team for Tail Gate for Dogs. He was also involved in many clubs and organizations throughout his life.
Per the family’s request, please omit flowers and instead consider donating to The Ghostlight Theatre Benton Harbor (PO Box 244 Benton Harbor, MI 49022 https://www. ghostlightbh.com/support) or Elmhurst Centre for Performing Arts (PO Box 653 Elmhurst, IL 60126 or ecpa-elmhurst.org).
The Brian E. Wagner Scholarship Fund (BEWSF) held its 14th annual Bags for Wags bean bag tournament earlier this month at Visitation Parish. The Feb. 8 event raised approximately $9,500. All proceeds will benefit the scholarship award, which recognizes college-bound seniors who will graduate this year.
The BEWSF’s mission is to encourage high school students to serve as leaders in their community by exercising sound judgment and committing themselves to volunteer programs that make a positive impact. The cause was established in memory of Brian Edwin Wagner, an Elmhurst native whose life was cut short at the age of 16 in a 1993 auto accident.
Since that time, his legacy of resilience shines forth through the scholarship program that bears his name.
The first-place finishers of this year’s Bags for Wags tournament were Kevin and Stephanie Vance.
The long-standing tradition of uniting members of the Elmhurst community and surrounding suburbs celebrates Brian Wagner’s memory. In addition to the bags tournament, thousands of dollars in silent auction items and raffle prizes were donated by organizations from the Chicagoland area.
The Chicago Blackhawks skybox experience was the grand prize in the live auction. Thanks to the generosity of Republic Bank, $2,700 was raised for the winning bid, placed by Sal Stangarone.
The BEWSF graciously acknowledges their sponsors: Linda Roberts at Visitation School, John Noldan
at Guaranteed Rate, Nancy Brook from Community Bank of Elmhurst, Mickey Weiss from Giuliano’s Restaurant in Hinsdale and Phil Limonciello from Mama Maria’s Restaurant in Elmhurst.
Students who wish to apply for the scholarship will have the oppor-
tunity to share their personal stories and leadership experiences to illustrate how they have impacted their own lives and the lives of others in a positive way. The deadline to submit an application is this Friday, Feb. 28. More information can be found at https://BrianEWagnerFund.org.
The curse of the avocados
I have bad luck with avocados.
I just can’t seem to keep track of them. I shop for them. I put them in my cart. I pay for them. And then, something goes decidedly—or perhaps magically – wrong.
I leave the store with an avocado in my bag and when I come home, it is gone.
I lose avocados like they are socks on laundry day.
And that isn’t exactly the easiest thing to do. Avocados aren’t small— as fruits go.
I mean, a person could quite easily lose a grape or a blueberry or even a cherry tomato. But an avocado? One wouldn’t think so.
I wouldn’t have, had it not happened to me personally - on numerous occasions.
It started years ago. Back then, I blamed it on my husband. He and I used to go to the grocery store to acquire provisions for supper. On at least two occasions, our list included an avocado (for guacamole).
In the aftermath of the avocado escape, both he and I remembered (clearly) choosing the avocadobecause choosing an avocado of the correct firmness is tantamount to its inclusion in dinner (and guacamole) on any given night. We remembered removing the avocado from the cart to the conveyor belt of the check out lane. We even remembered seeing the avocado in our bag as we walked to the car.
And then, everything gets blurry.
Because we arrived at home and unpacked the groceries and didn’t notice the errant avocado(s) immediately because who itemizes their grocery acquisitions on such a specific level so soon after returning from the store?
Certainly not us. We didn’t notice the avocado’s absence until right before dinner - when it was time to prepare the guacamole.
It was at this point it became obvious that the avocado had gone AWOL.
This happened more than once— maybe more than twice, but enough to make me know we were avocado cursed.
By JILL PERTLER Slices of Life
And then, unexpectedly, the curse was lifted and my life was filled with avocados anew.
Until this week.
When I purchased an avocado for dinner.
And when dinner time came near and it was time to make the guacamole there was no avocado in my kitchen.
It was like history was repeating itself.
I looked in all the usual places, and came up avocado empty. We ate supper sans guacamole and everyone forgot about the lack thereof - except me.
I just couldn’t let it go.
But I had to. What recourse does a person have when she can’t find her avocado? Not much.
Life went on.
The next day, I followed my normal routine, which included an exercise class in the morning. When I returned to my house around noon, I noticed a weird lumpy shape my driveway. I thought it might be a dead bird. After driving the car into the garage, I walked out to the driveway to examine the clumpy lump.
You’re already two steps ahead of me, aren’t you?
And with that, you’d be correct. The lump was a squished avocado. Apparently it rolled out of my hatchback (or shopping bag) when I unloaded groceries the day before. And then, that morning, I’ve driven over it with the car.
Mystery solved! Give me a Scooby snack.
Or better yet, an avocado.
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.
Letters to the Editor
Elmhurst Centre for Performing Arts mourns the loss of Doug Peterson
It is with heavy hearts that we share the loss of Doug Peterson, a Founding Member of the Elmhurst Centre for Performing Arts and member of our Board of Directors. Doug’s vision, passion, and continued dedication to the performing arts shaped the ECPA mission and were a driving force behind the idea of a performing arts center.
Doug leaves behind a legacy that will continue to inspire our community to explore, create, and reach new heights to discover beautiful things in the world of performing arts.
We had the privilege of working alongside Doug since our dream began in 2016. As we mourn this tremendous loss to our community, we are committed to carrying forward the work and values he possessed and instilled in us and our work. Our thoughts are with Doug’s wife Cindy, his children Brian and Julie, and the entire Peterson Family.
Thank you, Doug. You will be forever remembered.
Elmhurst Centre for Performing Arts Board of Directors and Staff
The obituary can be found at dupagecremations.com
Resident expresses support for Mayor Scott Levin’s re-election
Election season is upon us and once again we will be choosing our elected leaders, this time for our local elected officials. First and foremost, I feel so blessed to be living in a town
that has such a rich tradition of good, honest government that serves the people of Elmhurst. Around the Chicagoland area we see stories about municipalities like Dolton that serve as a strong reminder of how important having open and transparent government is for a community to prosper.
In Elmhurst we are presented with two choices for Mayor. I know both candidates well, and both bring with them a breadth of experience, one having served previously as Alderman, and one having served as an Alderman and Mayor in our great city for many years. I commend both of these candidates for stepping up and offering to do a job that requires a great deal of personal time and commitment with little to no compensation.
Elections are about choosing and ultimately only one can be elected Mayor of our City. In the last four years I have seen Elmhurst prosper under the leadership of Mayor Scott Levin, with his collaborative approach and effective leadership qualities. I also know that just about every day of the week he is out making appearances, whether it be civic events, business openings, or other various events, to make everyone in Elmhurst feel connected to their city government and foster a sense of camaraderie amongst our residents. Mayor Levin has been a friend to the Veterans in our community in a variety of ways.
I have known Scott Levin for many years, since he was first appointed to fill an aldermanic vacancy in 2010. Over these many years I have known him to be a hard worker, someone who does things for the right reason,
someone who volunteers to serve our community, and someone I trust with Elmhurst’s $214 million dollar operating budget.
Oftentimes people overlook local races and rather focus on state and national elections, but your local government has the largest impact on your daily life. Local government requires people who don’t do it for selfish reasons or personal gain, but rather people who do it for the love of their community. We should respect their service to our community. That is why I am asking you to support public servant Scott Levin for re-election to Elmhurst Mayor in 2025.
Eric Pulia
Elmhurst
Residents support Mayor Scott Levin in the April 1 election
Under the excellent leadership of Mayor Scott Levin and our City Council members, Elmhurst is in a sound financial position. Nowadays this is an important achievement since it makes possible all the countless services and activities we have come to expect in our community. Elmhurst, under Mayor Levin, is an excellent example of local government responding to the voices of its citizens. Scott Levin is outgoing, accessible, and supportive of Elmhurst residents and organizations.
Mayor Scott Levin deserves our vote in April for a second term as mayor.
Ray and Genie Urick Elmhurst
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
Friday, Feb. 28
Hearts for the Arts. Back by popular demand is the Elmhurst Centre for the Performing Arts Hearts for the Arts campaign. This campaign supports the ECPA mission to build a state-of-the-art performing arts center while also highlighting a local artist and engaging small businesses throughout Elmhurst. The Hearts for the Arts campaign was created to drive traffic into local small businesses during the typically slower months of January and February, while supporting the overall ECPA mission of offering performances in live theater, music, dance, and comedy, where artists and patrons share their love of the performing arts. For more information, call 224-283-7889 or visit: www.ecpa-elmhurst.org/ event/hearts-for-the-arts-2025
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.
Saturday, March 1
Medley of Melodies . Starting at 7 p.m. and presented by the Elmhurst Choral Union at the First United Methodist Church, 232 S. York St., join singers from Elmhurst Choral union for a friendly evening in a casual setting. Enjoy selections in from musical theater, classical and folk styles. Free reception following the concert. Freewill donations will support ECU. For more information, visit: https://elmhurstchoralunion.org/ Hearts for the Arts.
Wednesday, March 12
Closet Change: The Enduring Politics of Fashion . Starting at 4 p.m. and presented by Elmhurst University, Sekile Nzinga is an interdisciplinary scholar, educator and practitioner who prioritizes mental health, healing and reproductive justice within black and other underserved communities. Nzinga will give this year’s Genevieve Staudt Intercultural Lecture at Elmhurst University for Wom-
en’s History Month. Admission is free but reservations are encouraged, at elmhurst.edu/Cultural. For other questions, email marketing@ elmhurst.edu or call 630-617-5186
Friday, March 14
“Acre by Acre: Our Farming Heritage.” From 1-5 p.m. presented free by Elmhurst History Museum, from 1850 to 1950, the area of DuPage County was home to farming families and small towns. The Elmhurst History Museum’s Acre by Acre: Our Farming Heritage exhibit will explore how settlers transformed the land into a thriving farming community and delve into the rich history of farming in the western suburbs. Despite facing challenges, these pioneering families supported themselves through subsistence farming before transitioning to commercial farming, contributing to Illinois’ agricultural legacy. The farmers of DuPage experienced the impact of mechanized farming equipment, which revolutionized the agriculture industry in Elmhurst and throughout Illinois. For more information, visit: www.elmhursthistory.org or call 630-833-1457.
Saturday, March 15
Adult Egg Hunt . Starting at 10 a.m. at Berens Park, 493 N. Oaklawn, Ave., and presented by the Elmhurst Park District, this event gives new meaning to BYOB (bring your own basket). Adults will hunt for eggs filled with goodies and
have a chance to win amazing prizes. There will be $500 in cash prizes courtesy of sponsor, Kelly Stetler Real Estate. Raffle winners will be called after the event, so be sure to stay until the end for raffle winner announcements. The event is free to attend, but registration is required. Ages 18 and up, dren under 18 allowed. Register at epd.org.
Sunday, March 16 presents “A Grand Tour.” Starting ploration
Illinois Newspapers
Keeping you informed
To know more, read public notices in today’s newspaper or go to
Can’t-miss events in and around the area
Editor’s note: If you have information on an event in Addison, Bensenville, Elmhurst, Lombard and Villa Park taking place that you would like us to consider listing here, please email that information to: news1@rvpublishing.com
Ongoing
North Suburban Carvers meetings
The North Suburban Carvers meet on the first and third Mondays of each month at the Wood Dale Public Library from 6:30-8:30 p.m. Anyone interested in carving, power carving, wood burning or special finishing techniques is welcome. North Suburban Carvers is a non-profit organization that promotes carving in the Chicago area. For more information, visit: northsurburbancarvers.com .org/calendar.aspx
Saturday, March 1
Law Enforcement Hockey Classic
Bensenville
The Law Enforcement Hockey Classic to benefit Honor Flight Chicago returns for its 12th edition at The Edge Ice Arena. Doors open early at 4:30 p.m. for this exciting, family-friendly evening highlighted by a spirited clash between teams from the Chicago Police Department and the Chicago branch of the FBI. The event includes fun side games like “Chuck-A-Puck,” silent auction and raffle items, and a dedicated family fun area with more games and activities to enjoy before the puck drops at 6 p.m. Adult tickets are $30 in advance and children aged 12 and under are $10 in advance. All tickets are
$40 at the door. Group tickets are available for $20 each for 10 or more by calling the office at 773.227.8387. For more information, visit: www. bensenville.il.us
Medley of Melodies
Elmhurst
Starting at 7 p.m. and presented by the Elmhurst Choral Union at the First United Methodist Church, 232 S. York St., join singers from Elmhurst Choral union for a friendly evening in a casual setting. Enjoy selections in from musical theater, classical and folk styles. Free reception following the concert. Freewill donations will support ECU. For more information, visit: https:// elmhurstchoralunion.org/ Hearts for the Arts.
Sunday, March 2
Spaghetti dinner fundraiser
Villa Park
Villa Park Scout Troop 199 invites all community members to attend its annual spaghetti dinner fundraiser. The event will take place from 11:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. at St. Alexander Parish Hall, 300 S. Cornell Ave., Villa Park. There is a dine-in option and a carry-out option. Tickets are $13 for adults and $7 for children age 5 to 12. Admission is free for children under 5. Proceeds from the spaghetti dinner contribute to the troop’s growth, leadership development and various scouting activities. Tickets will be available at the door. Tickets can also be purchased through any Troop 199 Scout, or by contacting the troop at bsa199VP@gmail. com. The troop will collect non-perishable items at the spaghetti dinner. Those items will be donat-
ed to the Outreach House in Lombard.
Paul Revere, Son of Liberty Lombard
Starting at 3 p.m. at Maple Street Chapel, 200 S. Main St., Terry Lynch of Histories for Kids will perform as Paul Revere, one of the founding fathers, who played a critical role in the fight for American independence. He is known for much more than his famous horse ride to Lexington. Learn how he became a Son of Liberty. Tickets are $20. For more information, visit: www.maplestreetconcerts.org or email: maplestreetconcerts@gmail.com
Saturday, March 8
Fish & Fetish: Victorian Explorer Mary Kingsley Lombard
From 3-4 p.m. presented by the Lombard Historical Society, 23 W. Maple St., join the Historical Society for a theatrical experience step-
ping back into the Victorian Era. WomanLore’s one-woman performances are adapted directly from journals, autobiographies, and personal writings. WomanLore offers a complete theatrical experience, authentically costumed and designed, accurately evoking the era being portrayed. For more information, visit: www.lombardhistory. org/new-events-1
Saturday, March 15
Adult Egg Hunt Elmhurst
Starting at 10 a.m. at Berens Park, 493 N. Oaklawn, Ave., and presented by the Elmhurst Park District, this event gives new meaning to BYOB (bring your own basket). Adults will hunt for eggs filled with goodies and have a chance to win amazing prizes. There will be $500 in cash prizes courtesy of sponsor, Kelly Stetler Real Estate. Raffle winners will be called after the event, so be
See eventS, Page 13
DuPage County Health Department announces free swim lessons initiative for Illinois children
The DuPage County Health Department’s (DCHD) Protect Swimmers 10 Million (PS10M) Initiative is excited to share a funding opportunity designed to offer free swim lessons for Illinois children aged 3-5 years old through the Pool Safely Grant Program.
This proactive effort aims to prevent fatal childhood drownings. This initiative is focused on public swimming facilities in regions with higher incidences of fatal child drowning.
Up to 10 Illinois public swimming facilities will receive awards ranging from $2,000 to $4,000 each to provide free swimming lessons to Illinois children in need. Public swimming facilities include pools operated by civic and community organizations, schools, municipal-
ities, park and recreation organizations, swim schools, residential communities, and health centers.
Applications are due by Friday, Feb. 28, at 11:59 p.m. Please note that applications received after this deadline will not be considered. Awards will be announced in March.
To apply, those interested are encouraged to review the 2025 Protect Swimmers 10M Funding Opportunity Overview and complete the online application form: https://forms. gle/1egyEkYdRiTR7j4S9
DCHD invites all public swimming facilities in Illinois to take part in this opportunity. DCHD has been a proud recipient of the Pool Safely Grant Program since 2018.
For more information on the PS10M initiative, visit: https://www. dupagehealth.org/231/Pool-Safely
• Events
(Continued from page 11)
sure to stay until the end for raffle winner announcements. The event is free to attend, but registration is required. Ages 18 and up, no children under 18 allowed. Register at epd.org.
Sunday, March 23
Village Vocal Chords
Lombard
Starting at 3 p.m. at Maple Street Chapel, 200 S. Main St., Village Vocal Chords is a women’s chorus, chartered with the international organization of Harmony, Inc. They will present a program of four-part a cappella harmony in the barbershop style. Tickets are $20. For more information, visit: www.maplestreetconcerts.org or email: maplestreetconcerts@gmail.com
Saturday, April 12
Spring community recycling event
Addison
The Village of Addison’s Spring Community Recycling Event will be held from 8 a.m.-noon at the Addison Public Works Department, 1491 Jeffrey Drive. It is open to Addison residents only; Must show proof of residency. For a complete list of items that will, and will not, be accepted, visit: www.addisonadvantage.org. For more information, call 630-620-2020 or 630-279-2140.
game with our Extreme PaczkiSpecialty Flavors: Cannoli, Fresh Strawberry, Banana, White Chocolate Mousse, Nutella and Chocolate Raspberry! Stay tuned another specialty flavor is being created.
Specializing in general maintenance and repair both inside and out.
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at Roselawn Memory Gardens 3045 WI-67, Lake Geneva, WI 53147. This is a private sale. Contact Randy, the seller at randy@slpublishers.com.
Sport S
IC Catholic Prep girls basketball team wins regional title
Knights give up combined 26 points in first two postseason games
By Mike Miazga Correspondent
Defense was the name of the game for the IC Catholic Prep girls basketball team in its two recent postseason wins. The Knights gave up a combined 26 points in two wins over Chicago Lady of Tepeyac and Timothy Christian on their way to the Class 2A IC Catholic Prep regional championship. ICCP has won 13 regional titles now in program history and three since 2022 (six since 2014).
The host Knights opened regional play with a 73-5 victory over Our Lady of Tepeyac (located in the Little Village neighborhood of Chicago), holding their guests to no points in the second half. All rostered ICCP players scored in the game. Lexi Hoffman and Mary Kate Hilgart each scored nine points to lead ICCP. Libby Phillips and Ellie Tardiff each had eight points. Tardiff also pulled in six rebounds, while Hoffman had six rebounds and three steals. ICCP led 24-3 after the first quarter, 46-5 at halftime and 59-5 after three quarters of play.
The Knights then downed crosstown foe Timothy Christian 45-21 in the regional title game. It was ICCP’s third victory over Timothy Christian this season. ICCP led 8-4 after the first quarter and 17-6 at halftime. The Knights brought a 28-10 lead into the fourth quarter. Sofia Bucaro led the Knights with 11 points, while Phillips had 10 points and 13 rebounds and two steals. Bucaro also added a steal.
“Our practices on Wednesday and Thursday before the game were all about defense,” Knights coach Todd Fisher said. “It was arguably and probably the best defensive performance we have had all year from start to finish. ICCP held Timothy to four field goals in the first three quarters. “And knowing some of their kids’ 3-point shooting is their strength, we held them to one 3 for the game,” Fisher explained. “We have been asking for complete games in January and February, and it was a complete game for us in an exciting atmosphere. I am very proud and happy with their performance. Only 32 of these things are given out in 2A and now we are one of the 32 regional champions.”
Fisher lauded the efforts of Bucaro in the Timothy title win. “Sofia had a real nice game,” he said. “She had three 3s and made a couple of free throws in the fourth quarter. Top to bottom with all our kids, it came
The IC Catholic Prep girls basketball team recently defeated Timothy Christian to win its own Class 2A
pionship. The Knights are playing in the Class 2A Lisle sectional this week, seeking the program’s first sectional crown
down to defense. We game-planned well and, again, give our kids credit for executing the game plan defensively.”
Fisher also was pleased with how the Knights performed on the offensive side of the ball. “Offensively, we had very good ball movement,” he said. “We were able to get the ball inside and out and knocked down some shots against their zone.”
The Knights played Westmont earlier this week in the Class 2A Lisle sectional semifinals. If ICCP defeated Westmont, it will play for the sectional title tonight at Lisle against either Chicago Phillips or host Lisle. The Knights are searching for their fourth sectional title in program history and first since 2015.
“We saw Westmont play earlier this year at the same Christmas tournament we were in,” Fisher said late last week. “They have a nice 21-11 record. I’m so impressed with our kids. They understand the time of year and they understand what is at stake. I have to give them credit going back to Friday’s game against Timothy with where they are mentally and physically. We are in a good spot.”
Cumbee, Casey and Kelly win Class 2A state championships for IC Catholic Prep wrestling Knights qualified 12 for state meet; Won team regional title
By Mike Miazga Correspondent
The IC Catholic Prep wrestling team was well represented at the recent Class 2A state finals wrestling meet held at State Farm Center on the campus of the University of Illinois in Champaign-Urbana. The Knights had an impressive 12 wrestlers compete in the individual state meet with three wrestlers: sophomore Max Cumbee, senior Deven Casey and junior Brody Kelly winning state titles.
For Casey, it’s his second state title in a row at ICCP. He won the 120-pound crown a year ago. He finishes his high school career with
four state medals to his credit. He took third in 2022 in Class 2A at 106 pounds and third in 2A at 113 pounds in 2023 as a member of the Aurora Christian wrestling team. Cumbee, Casey and Kelly join the likes of Joey Bianchini (2017 and 2018), Michael Calcagno (2022 and 2024), Isaiah Gonzalez (2023), Jadon Mims (2022), Nick Renteria (2022) and Saul Trejo Jr. (2020) as ICCP state-championship wrestlers. Casey is the third wrestler at ICCP to win multiple state crowns.
At the University of Illinois starting with the lightest weight class, ICCP sophomore Dominic Pasquale
(21-9) took fourth in the state at 106 pounds. He lost via technical fall in 5:50 in the third-place match to Montini’s Erik Klichurov. Junior Sam Murante (10-1) finished third at 113 pounds. He won the thirdplace match via fall in 2:00 over Oak Forest’s Jacob Sebek. Sophomore Kannon Judycki (29-20) finished sixth at 120 pounds. He lost 6-3 to Yorkville Christian’s Aiden Larsen in the fifth-place match. Cumbee (20-5) won the 126-pound state title. Cumbee downed Rochelle senior Xavier Villalobos 1-0 in the championship match. Casey (47-6) won the 132-pound state title. He downed Be-
thalto Civic Memorial senior Bradley Ruckman 10-1 (major decision) in the championship match. Freshman Aiden Arnett (37-11) took second at 144 pounds. Arnett lost to Washington senior Peyton Cox 1-0 in the title match. Kelly (46-5) won the 175-pound state title. Kelly was a 21-6 technical-fall winner over Geneseo’s Kye Weinzierl. Freshman Isaac Barrientos (34-17) took fifth at 190 pounds. Barrientos defeated Montini senior Jaxon Lane 13-4 (major decision) in the fifthplace match. Junior Foley Calcagno See wreStling, Page 18
sUBMItted pHoto Elmhurst Independent
IC Catholic Prep regional cham-
in a decade.
York sophomore Veselovsky competes at girls gymnastics state meet
By Mike Miazga Correspondent
York sophomore gymnast Melania Veselovsky finished her season on the biggest stage of them all. Veselovsky competed in the recent IHSA girls state gymnastics meet held at Palatine High School. Veselovsky took 18 th in the preliminary round of the uneven parallel bars and did not advance to the
finals. Veselovsky finished with a score of 9.00 (judge scores of 9.10 and 8.90). Veselovsky qualified for state as well on vault and floor exercise, but did not compete in either event at Palatine. She also qualified for state in the all-around competition.
Earlier, the Dukes finished fourth at the Glenbard West sectional. York finished with a
York girls bowlers finish 24th at state meet
Gamble scores 26 points for Timothy Christian boys basketball team team score of 139.1750. Wheaton-Warrenville South won the sectional with a 142.525 score. Veselovsky automatically qualified for state in three of the four events as well as the all-around competition. Veselovsky won the vault sectional title with a score of 9.30. She tied for third on uneven parallel bars with a score of 9.10. Veselovsky tied for third on floor exercise with a 9.15 and took second in the sectional in the all-arounds coring with a 36.150 score. Willowbrook senior Naomi Campbell won the all-around title with a 36.275 score.
Ziola ties for 88th individually
By Mike Miazga Correspondent
The York girls bowling team capped off its 2024-2025 season by finishing 24th at the recent state bowling finals held at Cherry Bowl Lanes near Rockford. The Dukes finished with a total pinfall of 4,807 for their six games on the first day of action. The Dukes, who averaged 160.2 per game as a team, did not qualify for the final round.
Junior Cailyn Ziola led the way for the Dukes with a 1,047 series, which included high games of 209 and 188. She rolled a strong 586 series after the lunch break. Senior Ava Lewandowski finished with a 1,013 series, which included high games of 204 and 210, which occurred right before and after the lunch break in games 3 and 4. Junior Ella Shea rolled a 926 series, which included high games of 167 and 164. Junior Lindsay Valdivia finished with a 920 series, which included a high game
of 160. Senior Anna Copher rolled a 901 series, which included a pair of 180 high games in the morning session. Ziola tied for 88th individually at state, while Lewandowski tied for 106th place.
York boys basketball
gerald led York with nine points, while Hunter Stepanich added eight points.
York opened postseason play earlier this week against Wheaton North in the Class 4A Proviso West regional in Hillside. If York won that game, it will face either No. 3 sectional seed Wheaton-Warrenville South or No. 13 seed Proviso West for the regional title Friday at 7 p.m. at Proviso West. York is the No. 6 St. Charles East sectional seed, while Wheaton North is the No. 11 seed.
Timothy Christian boys basketball
U12 baseball action
Anthony Bucolo fires a pitch during a recent U12 baseball game.
York advanced to the state finals for the 10th time in program history and ninth under the direction of coach Katie Turnbull after finishing third as a team at the Chicago De La Salle sectional held at Bowlero Lyons. The top four teams at the sectional advanced to the state meet. The Dukes finished with a 5,029 total pinfall. Shea finished 12th individually at the sectional with a 1,086. She had high games of 220, 202 (in Game 1) and 181. She averaged 181 pins per game. Lewandowski finished with a 1,048 series with high games of 200, 191 and 178. She ended up 17th individually in the 105-bowler sectional field. Valdivia finished 23rd individually with a 1,022 series, which included high games of 190, 179 and 175. Copher bowled the last three games and had a high game of 170, while junior Skylar Johnson bowled the first three games and had a high game of 162.
The York boys basketball team dropped a 50-38 decision to Downers Grove North to close out both the West Suburban Conference Silver Division schedule and the regular season. Connor Fitz -
The Timothy Christian boys basketball team recorded a recent 58-44 Chicagoland Christian Conference win against Chicago Christian. Timothy led 13-12 after the first quarter and trailed 25-23 at halftime. The Trojans turned
the tables in the second half, outscoring Chicago Christian 19-13 in the third quarter and 16-6 in the fourth. In a 59-42 loss to Wheaton Academy in CCC action, junior Marc Gamble hit for 26 points and made three 3-pointers. Dylan Drye, Braden Barr and Adam Roland each had five points. Gamble also sank 7 of 8 free-throw attempts and had seven rebounds. Roland had eight rebounds. The Trojans opened Class 2A postseason play earlier this week against crosstown neighbor IC Catholic Prep in the Class 2A Montini regional in Lombard. If Timothy won that game, it will face either No. 1 sub-sectional seed Montini, No. 11 Chicago Noble/Rowe-Clark or No. 10 Chicago Academy for the Montini regional title Friday at 7 p.m. in Lombard.
Mondo
Martinelli, Frank Nitti
and Mikey Grazzini
York Wrestling
Martinelli, Nitti and Grazzini all competed at the recent Class 3A boys wrestling state finals meet in Champaign-Urbana at State Farm Center on the campus of the University of Illinois. Martinelli won his first match, lost his second in the main bracket at 126 pounds and then split a pair of matches in the consolation bracket to finish 2-2 Nitti went 2-2 at 144 pounds, while Grazzini went 1-2 at 215 pounds.
State championship win
Immaculate Conception Catholic Prep’s Brody Kelly (above and right) wins the state championship at 175 pounds. The ICCP junior finished the year with a record of 50-5 and won the title match via technical fall.
ICCP’s Deven Casey entered the Illinois High School Association Class 2A State Finals as the top ranked wrestler at 132 pounds and he left State Farm Arena at University of Illinois as the state champion. He won the state title by major decision, beating Civic Memorial’s Bradley Ruckman 10-1.
• Wrestling
(Continued from page 16)
(41-14) was third at 215 pounds. He won the third-place match via fall in 5:08 over Evergreen Park senior Genesis Ward. Sophomore Anthony Sebastian (31-16) took fourth at 285 pounds. He lost 4-0 in the third-place match to DePaul College Prep sophomore Hunter Wahtola.
At the Class 2A Crystal Lake Central sectional where berths in the state finals were on the line, Pasquale took second. He lost via fall in 5:11 in the 106-pound championship match to Niles Notre Dame. Murante won the 113-pound sectional title with a 3-1 decision over Chicago St. Patrick. Judycki won the 120-pound sectional title with a pinfall win in 2:27 over Crystal Lake Prairie Ridge.
Cumbee won the 126-pound sectional title with a 7-2 win over Antioch. Casey won the 132-pound sectional title with a 9-6 win over Deerfield. Alvarez took third at 138 pounds. He won the third-place match 11-6 over Chicago St. Ignatius. Arnett won the 144-pound sectional title with a 7-5 win over Antioch. Joey Pontrelli finished fourth at 150 pounds after losing
via technical fall in 3:30 in the thirdplace match against Antioch.
Kelly won the 175-pound sectional title with a 22-6 technical-fall decision against Fenwick. Barrientos finished third at 190 pounds. He won the thirdplace match against Fenwick 4-1. Calcagno took second at 215 pounds. He lost 7-5 in the 215-pound title match. Sebastian took fourth at 285 pounds. He lost via fall in 4:14 to DePaul College Prep.
Earlier, the Knights won the Class 2A DePaul College Prep regional held at Walther Christian Academy in Melrose Park. ICCP finished with 294 team points, well ahead of Oak Park Fenwick’s 205.5 total.
Individually, Pasquale won the 106-pound regional title via fall in 2:30 over DePaul Prep. Murante won the 113-pound title with a 17-2 technical-fall win in 3:28 over DePaul Prep. Judycki won the 120-pound title with a pinfall win in 49 seconds over DePaul Prep. Cumbee was a 21-6 technical-fall winner in 1:56 over St. Ignatius in the 126-pound title match. Casey won the 132-pound title with a pinfall victory in
the
1:17 against DePaul Prep. Alvarez won the 138-pound regional title via major decision against St. Ignatius. Amett was an 18-3 technical-fall winner over DePaul Prep in the 144-pound title match. Pontrelli took second at 150 pounds. He lost 13-3 to DePaul Prep in the title match. Ben Czarnowski was fourth at 157 pounds. He lost via fall in 3:33 in the third-place match to DePaul Prep. Nate Brown won the 165-pound title via fall in 40 seconds against DePaul Prep. Kelly won the 175-pound title via fall in 1:29 over Fenwick, while Barrientos won the 190-pound title with a 7-2 decision over Fenwick. Calcagno won the 215-pound title via technical fall in 2:25 (18-2 score). Sebastian took second at 285 pounds He lost 14-4 in the title match to DePaul Prep.
By winning the DePaul Prep regional title, the Knights advanced to the Class 2A Wheeling dual-team sectional that takes place this week with berths in the dual-team state finals on the line. The Class 2A dual-team state finals take place Friday and Saturday at Grossinger Motors Arena in Bloomington.
a
Moto Johnson Photo Rock Valley Publishing
Moto Johnson Photo Rock Valley Publishing ICCP Knight freshman Aiden Arnett and Washignton senior Peyton Cox prepare to get back to action in their 144-pound championship match. Cox scored only one point in the match, but it held up as
older wrestler won
1-0 decision in their Illinois High School Association Class 2A State Title Match. Arnett finished second in the state.
Daniel l. ChaMness Photo Rock Valley Publishing
Daniel l. ChaMness Photo Rock Valley Publishing
Immaculate Conception Catholic Prep sophomore Max Cumbee locks up with Rochelle senior Xavier Villalobos in the championship match at 126 pounds Cumbee won the match by the slimmest of scores besting him 1-0. The match featured the top ranked wrestler in the weight class, Villalobos, against the second ranked wrestler in the weight class, Cumbee. Cumbee was one of three Knight athletes to win an individual state title on Saturday.
Elmhurst Public Library programs
Feb. 28-March 7
Friday, Feb. 28
2-4 p.m.
Friday Features: “Fly Me to the Moon”
Enjoy an afternoon at the movies. Find each week’s featured film at elmlib.org/Friday.
No registration required.
Saturday, March 1
10 a.m.-noon
Canasta: Open Play
Join us for a friendly game of Canasta every week. Prior experience is required.
Live in-person. No registration required.
Sunday, March 2
2:30-3:30 p.m.
Lyric Opera Lecture: La Boheme
Hear the story, learn about the composer, and listen to the music.
No registration required.
Monday, March 3
10 a.m.-noon
Scrabble
Play a friendly game of Scrabble. All skill levels welcome.
Live in-person. No registration required.
Tuesday, March 4
1-3 p.m.
Bridge and Pinochle
Enjoy and afternoon of card games every week. Prior experience is required.
No registration required.
Athletes of the Month for IC Catholic Prep
Wednesday, March 5 2-3 p.m.
Meet AIM-CIL
Meet a representative from AIMCIL (Achieving Independence and Mobility-Center for Independent Living) who discusses their services, five core principles, philosophy, and programming.
Live in-person and virtually on Zoom. Registration required.
Wednesday, March 5
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.
Wednesday, March 5
7-8:30 p.m.
The Supremes: Women of SCOTUS
Join Tauya Forst, Professor of Justice Studies at the College of DuPage, and Richard J. Forst, attorney, as they discuss the only six women who have been appointed to the United States Supreme Court. Presented with AAUW.
Live in-person and virtually on Zoom. Registration required.
Thursday, March 6
7-8:30 p.m.
Medicare 101
Learn what Medicare covers, what it doesn’t, and your potential out-ofpocket expenses, including Supple-
ment and Advantage Plans, Part D Prescription Coverage, and cost-saving strategies. Live in-person and virtually on Zoom. Registration required.
Friday, March 7 2-4 p.m.
Friday Features: “Conclave”
Enjoy an afternoon at the movies. Find each week’s featured film at el-
LEGAL NOTICES
mlib.org/Friday. No registration required.
NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING ZONING AND PLANNING COMMISSION/ZONING BOARD OF APPEALS
CASE NUMBER 25 ZBA 03
Request for Variation
Notice is hereby given that the Elmhurst Zoning and Planning Commission/Zoning Board of Appeals will hold a public hearing on Tuesday, March 18, 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 Michael M. Roth, for a Side Yard Setback Variation at the property commonly known as 256 E. Adelia Street, Elmhurst, Illinois for the purpose of constructing an addition.
Following is a legal description of the subject property:
ALL OF LOT 90 AND LOT 91 (EXCEPT THE EAST EIGHTY FIVE FEET THEREOF) IN WILLIAM H. BRITIGAN’S ELMHURST TERRACE, BEING A SUBDIVISION IN THE SOUTHWEST QUARTER OF SECTION 1, TOWNSHIP 39 NORTH, RANGE 11, EAST OF THE THIRD PRINCIPAL MERIDIAN, ACCORDING TO THE PLAT THEREOF RECORDED MARCH 12, 1925 AS DOCUMENT 189547, IN DUPAGE COUNTY, ILLINOIS.
PIN: 06-01-322-010
The common street address is 256 E. Adelia
Street, Elmhurst, Illinois. The subject property is located within the R1 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 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. 27, 2025) 468412
UNITED STATES OF AMERICA STATE OF ILLINOIS IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE EIGHTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT COUNTY OF DU PAGE
IN RE THE ESTATE OF MARK KAPUSCINSKI
DECEASED
2024 PR 000973 CASE NUMBER
PUBLICATION NOTICE AND/OR CLAIMS NOTICE
Notice is given of the death of MARK
KAPUSCINSKI whose address was 276 E. IRVING PARK RD., WOOD DALE, IL 60191. Letters of Office were issued on FEBRUARY 19, 2025 to BRIAN LEE KAPUSCINSKI, 546 BABCOCK AVE., ELMHURST, IL 60126 as: INDEPENDENT EXECUTOR whose attorney is RICHARD L. INSKEEP.
NOTICE TO HEIRS AND LEGATEES The estate Will be administered without Court Supervision, unless under section 28-4 of the Probate Act of 1975 (755 ILCS 5/28-4) any interested person may terminate independent administration at any time by mailing or delivering a petition to terminate to the Circuit Court Clerk.
Claims against the estate may be filed in the Office of CANDICE ADAMS, Circuit Court Clerk, 505 N. County Farm Road, Wheaton, Illinois, or with the representative or both on or before August 27, 2025 any claim not filed within that period is barred. Copies of a claim filed with the Circuit Court Clerk must be mailed or delivered to the representative and to the attorney, if any, within 10 days after it has been filed with the Circuit Court Clerk.
RICHARD L. INSKEEP
DuPage Attorney No.: 15110
Attorney For: BRIAN KAPUSCINSKI
100 South York, Suite 200 Elmhurst, IL 60126
630-530-5252
Email: inskeep.law@gmail.com (Published in The Elmhurst Independent Feb. 27, March 6, 13, 2025) 468420
Wrestling Team
We would like to recognize the IC Catholic Prep Wrestling Team as our athletes of the month. The wrestling team recently won the CCL Championship for the first time, and we are so proud of our athletes for achieving a glorious championship. The wrestling team also had 11 champions at the IHSA Regional this month. Congratulations to the wrestlers for an extraordinary job on the mats!
