Homeowners along Spring Road not only have a grandstand view, so to speak, for the Elmhurst St. Patrick’s Day Parade every year, many of them throw parties at their homes throughout the day. Dave and Kelly (right), shown here with their daughters Marie and Mackenzie, hosted a large gathering for friends on Saturday.
It’s the fourth year Dave and Kelly have hosted a party at their home. Dave said he estimates the party draws around 100 people. See pages 2, 4, 20 and 21 for more photos from Saturday’s parade.
MIKE SANDROLINI PHOTO Elmhurst Independent
Elmhurst Police arrest two men for stealing a senior citizen’s two wallets and attempting to purchase Apple products with her credit card
The Elmhurst Police Department reported last week the arrest of two men who allegedly distracted a senior citizen in a grocery store parking lot, stole her two wallets from her car, then attempted to use one of her credit cards to purchase more than $6,000 worth of Apple products.
On Monday, March 3, at approximately 1:30 p.m., Elmhurst Police officers responded to the parking lot of Whole Foods, 215 S. Route 83, for a 911 call reporting a burglary to a motor vehicle that just occurred. Officers arrived at the scene and spoke to a 76-year-old Elmhurst woman, who explained her two wallets were stolen from her purse in her car.
The victim said a male
suspect approached her and asked her to check the back of her car, as it was damaged. The victim exited her car and spoke to the man near her rear bumper. Two witnesses reported seeing a second male suspect open the front passenger door of the victim’s car and take something from the vehicle while the victim was being distracted.
The witnesses reported
seeing the two men leave onto Route 83 in a gray Honda Odyssey displaying a temporary New Jersey registration plate. The victim reported two wallets were stolen from her purse in the car. Those wallets contained cash and the victim’s credit cards.
Elmhurst Police detectives then received automated license-plate reader camera alerts that the suspects’ vehicle was detected traveling south on Route 83, eventually pulling into the Oakbrook Center mall. Detectives from Elmhurst, Oak Brook, and Villa Park located the Honda, which was occupied by only the driver, in the mall parking lot.
During surveillance, the driver was observed discard-
ing the victim’s wallets in a mall dumpster. The driver then picked up the passenger, who had exited the mall on foot.
At 2:22 p.m. the Honda pulled into another mall parking space, and detectives approached the suspects as they walked away from the car. One of the suspects complied and was arrested, but the second suspect ran and was apprehended by an Elmhurst detective after a short foot chase. The Honda minivan was found to be displaying a fictitious New Jersey temporary registration plate. Both suspects were taken to the Elmhurst Police Department.
Further investigation determined the passenger used one of the victim’s stolen credit cards at the Apple Store
in Oakbrook Center and attempted to purchase two iPhone 16 Pro Max phones and a MacBook M4 Pro computer, having a total value in excess of $6,000. The transaction was declined at the register, as the credit card had been canceled by the victim.
In consultation with the DuPage County State’s Attorney’s Office, Petrica Valerian Balan, 24, of Bowie, Maryland, was charged with burglary to a motor vehicle, aggravated identity theft of a senior citizen, obstructing a peace officer, and improper use of registration.
Marcus Bebino, 22, of Downers Grove, was charged with burglary to a motor vehicle, aggravated identity theft of a senior citizen, and ob-
Elmhurst celebrates St. Patrick’s Day in style
Jim O’Connor, Chairman of the Elmhurst St. Patrick’s Day Parade, once again brought beautiful weather to the parade held on Saturday, March 8 on Spring Road in Elmhurst. Jim has been the person behind the parade for an estimated 20 years. Thanks go out to Jim and all those involved for another great parade. The sun seems to shine every year at the parade, one of the most popular events held in Elmhurst. Irish dancers are shown here at this year’s parade.
structing identification. Both men were transported to the DuPage County Jail for first appearance court.
“The allegations that these two men conspired to distract a senior citizen and steal her wallet from inside her car are appalling,” said Elmhurst Chief of Police Michael McLean. “Seniors should feel safe when out shopping and I wish to thank the two witnesses that saw this suspicious activity and recorded the suspect’s description and license plate. I am also thankful for the excellent teamwork demonstrated by detectives from the Elmhurst, Oak Brook and the Villa Park Police Departments that led to the swift arrest of the suspects in this case.”
Rock Valley Publishing now has front page advertising available in the Elmhurst Independent, Addison Independent, Bensenville Independent, Lombardian, Villa Park Review and more than 30 other newspapers serving northern Illinois and southern Wisconsin. Front page advertising is available in combination with a full page advertisement. For further details, call an advertising representative at 630.834-8244.
PETER CRUGER PHOTO Elmhurst Independent
Marcus Bebino Petrica Valerian Balan
The elmhursT IndependenT
Your Hometown Newspaper Locally owned and operated
240 N. West Avenue Elmhurst, IL 60126
Main Phone 630.834-8244
Fax 630.834-0900
Visit us at: TheElmhurstIndependent. com
The Elmhurst Independent USPS#022-607 is published every Thursday by Rock Valley Publishing, LLC, 240 N. West Avenue, Elmhurst, IL 60126. Periodical Postage Paid at Elmhurst, IL
The Elmhurst Independent print version is mailed to residents in the 60126 zip code with a paid donation. See inside this issue for an order form. Out-of-area mail subscriptions are $45.00 yearly. Single copies are also available at more than 80 newsstand locations in Elmhurst. For home delivery information call 630-834-8244.
Reprints:
Content appearing in the Elmhurst Independent may not be reprinted without permission of the publisher or editor. Requests should be directed to Independent@rvpublishing.com or 630-834-8244.
Postmaster: Please send address changes to:
THE
INDEPENDENT 240 N. West Avenue, Elmhurst, IL 60126
Office
Saluting social workers
March is National Social Worker Month. The Elmhurst Police Department with Hahn and Associates to offer short-term counseling services to the community and connect residents to valuable resources, such as mental health services and substance abuse treatment. The police department’s licensed clinical social worker, Stephen Buhr (pictured), responds to assist at incident scenes and provides crisis, youth and domestic counseling services at the police station’s office. Send an email to policeinfo@elmhurst.org if you or someone you know needs support. Emergency crisis services should be requested through 988 or 911.
Elmhurst resident honored
Illinois State Treasurer Michael Frerichs hosted a Women’s History Month event in Chicago last week. The event, held in the Illinois Room at 555 W. Monroe St., honored eight women for their ongoing contributions in Illinois. The honorees included Jennie Oh Brown of Elmhurst—the executive director of the Chicago Youth Symphony Orchestra (CYSO)— who received the award for Outstanding Achievement in Arts and Humanities. She is pictured (right) with Frerichs (left) at the March 4 celebration. “We gather today to celebrate individuals who are dedicating their lives to helping others through education, mentorship, and leadership,” Frerichs said. “Illinois boasts a rich legacy of women activists, from those who fought for the right to vote to those who continue to advocate for equality and progress today. Women of all backgrounds have long recognized that true justice and equity cannot be achieved on an uneven playing field. We are grateful to these honorees for making our communities better places to live, work, and raise a family.” In addition to her role at the CYSO, Brown is Artist in Residence at the Epiphany Center for the Arts in Chicago and serves as flutist, executive and artistic director of ensemble collective Picosa. Brown is an active performer throughout Chicago in many contexts, including performances with the Milwaukee Symphony Orchestra and the Lyric Opera Orchestra. In 1911, the U.S. first participated in International Women’s History Day. In 1980, President Jimmy Carter issued the first presidential proclamation declaring National Women’s History Week. In 1987, Congress declared March as National Women’s History Month.
Party time
Irish soda bread sold here
Irish-themed souvenirs, attire, food and beverages were in ample supply throughout the day Saturday at restaurants, establishments and sidewalks along Spring Road. One unique food item available outside of Spring Inn that passers-by could either sample or purchase was Colleen Gallagher’s Irish Soda Bread—named after Colleen Gallagher of Rolling Meadows. Her soda bread recipe has won awards and is sold at various Chicago area St. Patrick’s Day parades. Holding up loaves of the renowned soda bread that were available for purchase on Saturday are (from left to right) Lucero Mateos, Devin Gallagher and Chris Perna.
SUBMITTED PHOTO Elmhurst Independent
SUBMITTED PHOTO Elmhurst Independent
MIKE SANDROLINI PHOTOS Elmhurst Independent
Julie (right), Vegan (left) and friends raise their glasses in a toast prior to watching the annual Elmhurst St. Patrick’s Day Parade Saturday in front of Julie’s house on Spring Road. Julie said she moved into the neighborhood last October, so this was the first St. Patrick’s Day parade she was able to experience in her new home.
Elmhurst City Council meeting summary
By Chris Fox ELMHURST INDEPENDENT
The Elmhurst City Council held a regular meeting on Monday. One of the council’s 14 aldermen—Brian Cahill— was absent from the brief meeting.
Alderman Jacob Hill announced during the meeting that Elmhurst’s vehicle sticker renewal forms were recently mailed to residents. Hill noted that the program that gives veterans and active-duty military members a discounted vehicle sticker—at the cost of $1—is still in place.
The regular vehicle sticker fee for a passenger car is $36 on or before April 30, and $45 on or after May 1. For senior citizens (age 65 and older), that fee for a passenger car is $18 on or before April 30, and $22.50 on or after May 1.
City manager gives information to provide resources for people in need Hill asked Elmhurst City Manager Jim Grabowski to provide some information about services available to people in need. Grabowski stated that homeless individuals are referred to DuPage PADS (Public Action to Deliver Shelter). He said that residents who need to spend time with a social worker for
a non-emergency situation should send an email to policeinfo@elmhurst.org.
Grabowski said that someone with an emergency need for mental health services should call the number 988, which is operated by DuPage County.
Early voting in the upcoming April 1 election will begin on March 17
Elmhurst City Clerk Jackie Haddad-Tamer stated that early voting for the upcoming April 1 election will begin on March 17 in City Council chambers, and will run through March 31. Election Day voting will also take place in City Council chambers on April 1. Election hours are available on the city’s website at elmhurst.org.
According to Haddad-Tamer, mail-in ballots will be mailed out from DuPage County around March 17.
Elmhurst Mayor Scott Levin mentioned that residents should be mindful that District 205’s spring break vacation will cover Election Day—April 1.
Aldermen discuss the 2025 Explore Elmhurst Community Grant program
The city council’s alder-
men voted unanimously to approve the meeting’s consent agenda. Hill pulled one item from the agenda and announced that he would vote present on that matter—the 2025 Explore Elmhurst Community Grant awardees. He said he would vote present because his employer, Elmhurst University, is one of the grant recipients.
According to information provided by the city, The purpose of the Explore Elmhurst Community Grant program is to “support community organizations that enhance Elmhurst as an engaging and fulfilling place to live, visit, and conduct business.”
The grant program has a 2025 budget of $150,000. Both community parades— Memorial Day ($15,000) and St. Patrick’s Day ($17,000)— were removed from the application process this year, but are still being funded by the Community Grant budget line. That left a remainder of about $120,000 for 12 applicants.
Funding for the Explore Elmhurst Community Grant program comes from the city’s 4-percent hotel/motel tax.
The 2025 grant recipients include the Elmhurst Art Museum, the Elmhurst Centre for the Performing Arts, the El-
mhurst Symphony, Elmhurst University and the Elmhurst Art Museum.
Alderman Mike Brennan chairs the Public Affairs and Safety Committee, which oversees the Explore Elmhurst Community Grant program. Brennan said the program has evolved in the last couple of years. He said applicants now need to submit expenses and request re-imbursement.
Alderman Michael Bram said that while he supports the grant program, the city council should evaluate it to
determine if at least two organizations that are receiving funding this year meet the program’s current criteria for receiving grants.
Spring Cleanup days to take place in April and May
Grabowski noted near the end of the meeting that the city’s Spring Cleanup days had recently been announced. Those Spring Cleanup days allow residents to discard of numerous items, with some restric-
tions. There is information about those restrictions on the city’s website—elmhurst.org.
Grabowski said that the upcoming Spring Cleanup day will take place on Saturday, April 12, for residents with a Wednesday collection day. The Spring Cleanup day for residents with a Thursday collection day is Saturday, April 26. For residents with a Friday collection, the Spring Cleanup will take place on May 3.
Apply now for AAUW Scholarships
The Elmhurst Area Branch of the American Association of University Women (AAUW) is now accepting applications for three $4,500 scholarships for women in need of financial assistance to continue their education at the undergraduate or graduate level. The deadline to apply is April 15. AAUW’s mission is to advance gender equity through research, education and advocacy.
To be eligible, women must be 23 or older and residents of Elmhurst, Addison, Bensenville, Berkeley, Northlake, Oak Brook, Oakbrook Terrace or Villa Park.
Applicants must have already completed 12 credit hours at an accredited community or undergraduate college or university. Applicants may be full-time or part-time students.
For an application and/or more information, visit www.aauwelmhurst.org. Call 630-207-4851 after your application is submitted to confirm receipt.
The AAUW Elmhurst Area Branch is a not-for-profit 501(c)3 organization. Funds from the Elmhurst Branch’s annual used book sale are used to support the local scholarships, national AAUW research and programs for women and girls.
VOTE FOR AN EXPERIENCED TEAM WITH A PROVEN RECORD YOU CAN TRUST
ELLEN PICKER GREER TRUSTEE
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.
Criminal trespassing, criminal damage
March 4
A complainant in the 1100 block of S. Euclid reported that a suspect damaged the washing machine door after a verbal altercation.
March 3-March 4
A complainant at an office building in the 100 block of W. Park reported the door to a vacant office was forced open.
Feb. 13-March 2
A victim in the 300 block of E. Cayuga reported a window to his garage had been broken sometime between the above dates. The victim believes an unknown suspect attempted to gain entry to the garage. Nothing was missing from the garage.
Domestic battery, disorderly conduct
March 3
Phillip Breckler, 37, of Elmhurst, was issued a citation for disorderly conduct/befouling public property in the 900 block of S. Kent at 8:10 a.m. Police said a complainant observed Breckler urinating on bushes at the above location.
March 1
A victim in the 700 block of N. Van Auken reported the suspect battered her after the two got into a verbal argument. The suspect denied hitting the victim but admitted to arguing with her. There was no visible evidence of a battery. The suspect agreed to leave for the night.
DUI, consumption of alcohol by a minor, illegal possession of alcohol
March 5
Jeronimo Barragan, 25, of Glen Ellyn, was charged with DUI, improper lane usage and driving with one headlight subsequent to a traffic stop near Roosevelt and Salt Creek at 1:06 a.m.
March 2
Joshua D. Brandt, 20, of Bloomington, Minnesota, was charged with DUI, disobeying a traffic control device, illegal possession of open alcohol by a driver and no insurance subsequent to a traffic stop near Vallette and York at 12:20 a.m.
Karl W. Lewis, 31, of Bellwood, was charged with DUI and improper lane usage subsequent to a traffic stop near Fair and St. Charles at 11:34 p.m.
March 1
Juan Ayala, 23, of Melrose Park, was charged with DUI and speeding subsequent to a traffic stop near North and Clinton at 3:17 a.m.
Feb. 28
Refugio Guerrero Gonzalez, 30, of Glen Ellyn, was charged with DUI and no insurance
Harassment, threats
March 4
A victim at a business in the 800 block of S. Riverside told police that an unknown suspect called the business and harassed her.
March 1-March 2
A victim in the 200 block of N. Michigan reported at 4:05 a.m. sending explicit videos of himself to a suspect. The suspect told the victim she wanted $300 or she would send the videos to his friends. The victim refused to pay and came to the police station to file a report.
Identity theft, fraud
According to information provided by the Elmhurst Police Department, police reported one incident of identity theft or fraud.
Possession of cannabis in a vehicle
According to information provided by the Elmhurst Police Department, police reported two incidents of possession of cannabis by either the driver of a vehicle or a passenger: Shannon L. Hester, 24, of Hillside, near Butterfield and York at 8:19 p.m. March 2; and Eris J. Alfaro Marchene, 26, of Elmhurst, near York and Lake at 8:12 p.m. March 3.
Possession of a controlled substance
Feb. 27
Nicholas E. Roberts, 41, of Alsip, was charged with possession of a controlled substance, possession of drug paraphernalia and improper lane usage subsequent to a traffic stop in the 300 block of S. Route 83 at 9:03 p.m.
Suspicious incident
March 5
A victim in the 300 block of W. McKinley told police that they heard someone walk around in the kitchen area of the residence and later discovered an opened exterior door while home alone. Officers checked the residence with no results. While on-scene, the same door was forced open by a strong wind. It was determined this may have been the cause of the original disturbance.
Warrant arrest
March 5
Police said that subsequent to a check on well-being in the 100 block of E. Butterfield, Robert L. Jenkins, 47, of Chiago, provided a false name and was in possession of drug paraphernalia containing drug residue. Jenkins
also was wanted out of DuPage County for a failure to appear warrant for driving under the influence, according to police.
March 1
Police said officers responded to the Elmhurst Hospital for a patient who had provided different names in an attempt to get narcotics. According to police, Ashley R. Sykes, 27, of Naperville, provided multiple names to officers and was eventually found to be wanted out of DuPage County. She was placed under arrest, transported to the station, processed on the warrants and charged with obstructing identification.
Feb. 28
Police said that subsequent to a well-being check near York and Arthur at 8:17 a.m., Jesus Aguayo Ornelas, 43, of Bensenville, was found to be intoxicated and to have a valid failure to appear warrant out of DuPage County.
Police said a victim reported an unknown suspect(s) stole a 2023 white Dodge Durango SRT 392, which was parked and locked at the above location. Broken glass was located onscene. The vehicle was entered into LEADS as stolen.
March 3
Police said officers responded to a store in the 200 block of S. Route 83 for the report of a theft. A victim reported having her wallet stolen out of her purse while she was distracted, according to police. The suspects were later located, placed under arrest, and transported to the police station. Petrica Valerian Balan, 24, of Bowie, Maryland, was charged with burglary without causing damage, aggravated ID theft, obstructing identification and improper use of registration. Marcus Bebino, 22, of Downers Grove, was charged with burglary without causing damage, aggravated ID theft and obstructing identification.
March 2
A complainant at a store in the 300 block of S. Route 83 reported that unknown suspects took merchandise without paying at
the above location.
March 1
Police said a complainant at a business in the 100 block of N. York related that a suspect deceived the clerk into giving him change after taking back his original payment.
Feb. 28-March 3
A complainant at a business in the 400 block of E. Emroy told police that their radon testing device went missing.
Feb. 26
A victim in the 400 block of E. Atwater told police that he contacted Hewlett-Packard support after having problems with his computer, and an unknown person(s) gained remote access. The victim sent the subject a wire transfer. The victim stated he has since frozen his accounts and was advised to contact the fraud department regarding the theft.
Dec. 15-Dec. 16, 2024
A victim in the 600 block of S. Spring told police that an unknown person(s) entered his vehicle while it was parked overnight. Several tools were reported missing. On March 3, police said Silvester C. Almaguer, 25, of Chicago, was charged with burglary without causing damage.
Unlawful possession of a weapon
March 1
A complainant in the 600 block of W. North told police a suspect had a handgun with an extended magazine tucked in his waistband. An officer made contact with the suspect, Jovon Aaron Woods, 30, of Bellwood, who was found to have a Glock 22 handgun and no valid CCL. Woods was placed under arrest and charged with aggravated unlawful possession of a weapon, disorderly conduct-and breach of peace.
Violation of an order of protection
March 2
George H. Hronopoulos, 65, of Elmhurst, was charged with violation of an order of protection, phone harassment and attempted disorderly conduct in the 100 block of N. Addison at 3:10 p.m. Police said the suspect left a harassing voicemail for the victim, violating the order of protection in place against him. Police said the suspect admitted to leaving the voicemail.
Firefighters respond to residential fire in Elmhurst
On Tuesday, March 4, at 5:21 p.m., the Elmhurst Fire Department responded to the scene of a residential structure fire in the 300 block of North Addison Avenue.
Firefighters were informed that a car was still in the garage.
Upon arrival, firefighters found heavy smoke and flames coming from a detached garage with several exposures. Mutual aid companies from Villa Park, Addison, York Center, Oakbrook Terrace, Hillside, and Northlake were called to assist.
A statement issued by the City of Elmhurst last week noted that the cause of the fire remained under investigation.
Firefighters extinguished the fire in approximately 20 minutes. The fire was confined to the garage and the car inside. There was also minor damage to the home. There were no injuries.
Vehicle crashes into Elmhurst business
No injuries reported; incident appeared to be an accident
On Thursday, March 6, at approximately 9:54 a.m. the Elmhurst Police and Fire Departments responded to European Wax Center, 357 S. Route 83, for a report of a vehicle that crashed into the front of the business.
Upon arrival, officers found a 2024 Mercedes sedan had collided into the glass storefront of the business in the Elmhurst Crossing Shopping Center. The business was occupied by two employees and a customer, none of whom were injured.
The 57-year-old woman driving the Mercedes reported attempting to park her car in the parking space directly in front of the business when the collision occurred. The driver was not injured, and the incident appeared to be accidental.
Court grants state’s motion to deny pre-trial release for a Chicago
teenager accused of attempted armed robbery in Oak Brook
DuPage County State’s Attorney Robert Berlin and Oak Brook Deputy Chief of Police Robert Christopherson announced on Sunday, March 9, that Judge Anthony Coco has granted the state’s motion to deny pre-trial release for a Chicago teenager accused of attempting to rob a man whom he had arranged with to sell two pairs of shoes.
Tajuan Brassel, 18, appeared in court on Sunday, March 9, and was charged with one count of attempted armed robbery (a Class 1 felony).
It is alleged that the victim approached Brassel, who was in the driver’s seat of a 2016 Nissan Altima, and once at the car, Brassel showed him both sets of shoes, which were sitting on the passenger seat.
It is further alleged that Brassel told the victim he would give him the shoes once he received the money, and that when the victim had the cash in his hand, Brassel reached inside his jacket with his right hand and pulled out a black handgun with an extended magazine, later determined to be a BB gun, and pointed the gun at the victim. It is alleged that the victim
On Thursday, March 6, at approximately 6:34 p.m., Oak Brook police officers responded to a call of an armed robbery in a parking lot in the 2100 block of W. 22nd Street. Following an investigation into the matter, it is alleged that the victim and Brassel arranged to meet in the parking lot for the victim to buy a pair of Balenciaga shoes and a pair of Lanvin shoes from Brassel for $350.
Giannoulias announces launch of Electronic Lien and Titling ELT Program in Illinois will reduce customer wait times
For the first time in Illinois, the Secretary of State’s office is making Electronic Lien and Titling (ELT) available when purchasing a vehicle from a participating dealer, Secretary Alexi Giannoulias announced.
Illinois joins 25 other states that have active ELT programs. This new program allows vehicle titles to be processed, stored and released digitally, eliminating the need for arduous paperwork, physical document mailing or in-person visits to a DMV facility.
“An electronic lien and titling program will make the process of buying a car significantly faster, more convenient and more secure than the paper system. What used to take months can be done with a few clicks, dramatically reducing the ‘Time Tax’ customers were forced to pay when titling a vehicle,” said Giannoulias. “Implementing new technology strategically enables our office to create efficiencies and benefit consumers. These investments are crucial to providing convenience, but more importantly security, for our customers and their data.”
The Illinois General Assembly first approved ELT in 2000 but outdated technology delayed full implementation. Upon taking office in 2023, Giannoulias made modernization a top priority and created the infrastructure to allow for ELT to launch.
ran away and called 911 from a nearby store.
At approximately 9:16 p.m., Brassel was located traveling southbound on I-90/94 near 52nd Street in Chicago. He was taken into custody by the Illinois State Police and Chicago Police Department near I-90/94 and 63rd Street.
“While buying and selling items with someone you met online is increasingly commonplace, there are still risks involved,” Berlin said. “There are simple steps you can take to protect your-
self when conducting such transactions such as always meet in a public place during daylight hours, tell someone where you are going and when you expect to return, and keep your cellphone charged and nearby, just to name a few. We are all thankful that the victim in this case was not physically harmed. I thank the Oak Brook Police Department for their outstanding work in identifying the defendant in this case as well as the Illinois State Police and the Chicago Police Department for their work in
apprehending Mr. Brassel. I also thank Assistant State’s Attorneys Kevin Kosman and Anna Derkacz for their efforts in preparing charges against Mr. Brassel.”
“This was a very serious incident that will not be tolerated in here in Oak Brook,” Christopherson said. “Our message is clear, if you come to Oak Brook to commit a crime you will be arrested and charged to the fullest extent of the law. We have a motivated team of highly-trained officers working toward keeping Oak Brook
safe. I want to commend the responding officers, and detectives for their dedication and hard work in quickly identifying the offender and getting him into custody. I’d also like to thank the agencies that assisted us with this incident, especially the Chicago Police Department. Finally, I’d like to thank State’s Attorney Bob Berlin and his team for their assistance and guidance on this case.”
Brassel’s next court appearance is scheduled for March 24, in front of Judge Margaret O’Connell.
Current state flag is decisive winner in flag redesign contest
Flag Commission to report findings to General Assembly for final decision
The public overwhelmingly favors retaining the current state flag, Illinois Secretary of State Alexi Giannoulias announced following the fiveweek voting period to consider a redesign of the flag.
a major redesign in the past century.
state flag,” Giannoulias said.
ELT allows an individual purchasing a vehicle at a dealership to complete an online title application that determines whether the lender has opted in for ELT. If they have, an electronic copy of the paperwork is sent to the Secretary of State for review, and a third-party vendor stores the electronic record until it is time to release the title.
Instead of customers waiting for lienholders to search through physical title records that may be stored for years, lienholders can now mark the title as paid, and the Secretary of State will send the released title to the owner.
The ELT system also reduces the potential for fraud by preventing “title-washing” and fraudulent lien releases when applying for a new title. These practices can prove devastating to customers who unknowingly purchase a stolen vehicle and to lienholders that are unaware of titles being fraudulently released.
The Secretary of State’s office does not charge for this service, but some ELT service providers may charge fees to participating lienholders.
The first phase of the Illinois ELT program is focused on transitioning new titles to the electronic format. Future phases of the program may allow lienholders to convert existing paper titles to electronic format and enable vehicle owners to hold their titles electronically on their phones.
Voters had the option to choose their favorite design from one of the Illinois Flag Commission’s Top 10 new designs, or one of three former flag designs, including the current one, which has not had
Of the nearly 385,000 votes that were received, over 165,000, or 43 percent, were cast for the current Illinois State flag, which received more votes than the next five top designs combined.
“Some may call it an SOB—a seal on a bedsheet— and the vexillogical community may hate it, but people overwhelmingly prefer our current
“Thank you to everyone who made their voice heard on the future of this important symbol of state pride.”
The Illinois Flag Commission will prepare a report detailing its findings and recommendations to the General Assembly by April 1. Lawmakers will then vote on whether to adopt a new flag, return to a previous iteration or keep the current one.
Senate Bill 1818, sponsored by State Sen. Doris Turner (48th District—Springfield) and State Rep. Kam Buckner (26th District—Chicago), was signed into law by Gov. JB Pritzker in 2023, creating the commission to gauge public desire for a new flag. The commission selected its Top 10 finalists in December from the 4,844 entries it received during the six-week submission period that closed in October.
Viewpoint
Slices of life
Signs and the things we can’t see
One of the most bittersweet moments in life is when you have good news and no one to call.
I have lots of people to call about lots of things. But certain pieces of good news, require certain people.
And, for me, those people are no longer here.
I can talk to them. I can tell them my news, but I can’t call them on the phone because they no longer require physical entities like phones, or bodies.
Today was one of those days.
I had some good news. But it was a certain sort of good news. Not the kind you share with just anyone. It was the kind you share with your mom, or your husband.
Neither was available for conversation, unfortunately.
So I contemplated my favorable situation and wished they were here to share my excitement.
And then I smelled cigarette smoke. (My mom was a smoker.) I whispered, “Hi, mom.”
All day long birds kept flying in weird patterns above my head and in front of me—uncannily close. I smiled and acknowledged my husband, “I see what you’re doing.”
And I took both for what they were: signs.
Some of you reading this may not believe in signs. I lived much of my life not knowing for sure, but certainly not being on the receiving end of them.
And then, here I am.
Watching birds do weird things. Smelling cigarette smoke when no one’s been smoking around me.
If you don’t believe, if you haven’t cause to believe, consider yourself fortunate.
I only know what I know. Believe what I believe (unapologetically).
I also, consider myself fortunate. Maybe even more so than many others. Here’s why:
By JILL PERTLER Columnist
I have been put into a place in this life where I have to believe—to have faith—in things I can’t necessarily see. And faith is a wondrous thing.
It provides peace amongst discord. It provides love amongst hate. It provides light amongst darkness. It provides joy amongst sadness. It provides healing amongst hurt. It provides trust amongst uncertainty. It provides hope amongst despair.
It provides a platform bigger than oneself. It provides a knowledge that none of us is in this alone.
Because we aren’t. And that is a beautiful thought. We all feel alone sometimes. I know I do and I have great faith that I am not alone. Still, despite that faith, sometimes aloneness creeps in and I feel separated from the world. Most often this occurs when I am struggling or when I have something especially good to share (and no one to share it with).
Like today. And then the birds put on a show for me. And I smell cigarette smoke.
And I know—I believe— without a doubt that there are things we don’t see with our eyes that nonetheless are as real as everything we do see.
For me, that is faith. And I am very, very glad and grateful for it – and for the love that’s helped me know it.
Jill Pertler is an awardwinning syndicated columnist, published playwright and author. Don’t miss a slice; follow the Slices of Life page on Facebook.
Letters to the editor
Former alderman supports Mayor Levin’s re-election
My name is Chris Healy. My family and I have lived in Elmhurst for more than 26 years. I have previously served as a Commissioner on the Elmhurst Park District Board (2005-2009) and as Fifth Ward Alderman on the Elmhurst City Council for two terms (2009-2017). Four years ago, when Mayor Levin ran for Mayor, I wrote a letter in support of his candidacy. I do so again for his re-election in April.
I know, and have served with, both Mayor Levin and his opponent (who ran unsuccessfully for Mayor four years ago and was beaten in his last Aldermanic race). The choice is very clear in my mind. Mayor Levin has my full support and vote for Mayor. Elmhurst is a thriving town with excellent schools, parks and booming downtown and commercial districts. Home values, which for most of us represent our single largest investments, are rising. These facts are not by chance. They require good government, excellent tax dollar stewardship and a lot of hard work and effort by those in City government and the professionals
within our City staff. The one area that can negatively impact our city, and quickly, is public safety. If our residents, and future residents, don’t view Elmhurst as safe, Elmhurst will stop growing and thriving. Elmhurst has one of the finest police forces in the state of Illinois. Elmhurst has always supported our police force with the resources necessary to keep Elmhurst safe. This is one area of significant difference between the two candidates. Mayor Levin supports keeping our Police force equipped by providing the necessary resources to keep the City safe. His opponent does not. This, to me, is THE single largest issue in this election and if you believe as I do, then you will vote for Mayor Levin’s re-election in April.
Chris Healy Alderman, Fifth Ward, City of Elmhurst (retired) Commissioner, Elmhurst Park Board (retired)
Mother of 3 supports Mayor Levin
As a mother to three young children, the choice during this year’s mayoral election is especially important. My husband and I chose to
raise our family in Elmhurst because it offers a unique intersection between smalltown community and city living. A moment that highlights this was at the firehouse’s Noon Year’s Eve bash last year where our son was awed to meet Mayor Scott Levin.
When we saw him again at the 4 on the Fourth race, our son proudly reminded us that he’d shaken Scott’s hand. And when we had an emergency sewer issue this winter, Scott was there to point us in the right direction to have it permitted.
Through his actions, presence, and availability, Scott has repeatedly demonstrated that forward progress, safety and measured growth are all cornerstones of Elmhurst’s inclusive and vibrant community.
I invite you to join me in voting for Mayor Scott Levin on April 1, 2025.
Nora Baxtrom Elmhurst
Fourth Ward resident supports Mike Baker’s campaign to serve on the Elmhurst City Council
I am writing to express my strong support for Mike
Baker in his campaign for Fourth Ward Alderman. Having known Mike for over 20 years and having served alongside him on several committees, I have seen firsthand his exceptional financial sense and his ability to collaborate effectively to get things done.
Mike has a deep understanding of fiscal responsibility, always approaching financial matters with careful analysis and sound decision-making. His ability to work with others demonstrates his dedication to building consensus and finding solutions that serve the greater good. On every committee we have served on together, Mike has brought thoughtful leadership, a willingness to listen, and a commitment to making decisions that benefit everyone.
The Fourth Ward needs an alderman who understands the complexities of city government, values teamwork, and makes decisions with integrity. Mike Baker is that candidate. I encourage my fellow residents to support him in the upcoming election.
Sincerely,
Shari Haug Elmhurs
Affordable health screenings coming to Elmhurst March 19
Residents living in and around Elmhurst can learn about their risk for cardiovascular disease, osteoporosis, diabetes, and other chronic, serious conditions with affordable screenings by Life Line Screening.
Clarion Inn Hotel will host this community event on Wednesday, March 19. The site is located at 933 S Riverside Drive in Elmhurst.
Screenings can check for:
• The level of plaque buildup in your arteries, related to risk for cardiovascular disease, stroke and overall vascular health.
• HDL and LDL cholesterol levels
Diabetes risk
• Kidney and thyroid function, and more Screenings are affordable and convenient. Free parking is also available.
Special package pricing starts at $159, but consultants will work with you to create a package that is right for you based on your age and risk factors. Call 1-877-2371287 or visit our website at www.lifelinescreening.com Pre-registration is required.
Obituaries
EDWARD HEFFERIN
Edward was born in Chicago, IL on September 23,1929 and remained in the area his entire life.
He graduated from Austin High School and was active in the Builders, a Masonic organization for boys. It was during this time he met Barbara, who was an active Job’s Daughter, a Masonic organization for girls. Romance developed and resulted in a sixty three year marriage.
Ed served in the Army, during the Korean Conflict, and was stationed in Germany. Upon returning to the States, he worked as a printer for the AMA and later the Elmhurst Press Publications. His work ethic was only exceeded by his sense of adventure and fun. Ed was a very active member of Medinah Shrine, specifically the Arab Patrol, Company D. He was a member of Elmhurst Masonic Lodge 941, the Scottish Rite, Jester Court #48 and the Benevolent Order of Crabs, Claw #1. After Barbara passed, Edward was lucky to meet Betty at their senior living community. They married, enjoyed travel and other activities offered there and had eight years of laughs and fun.
Edward is survived by his beloved wife, Elizabeth, “Betty” and preceded in death by his first wife of 63 years, Barbara, who passed away in 2014.
He was the loving father of the late Deborah (survived by Richard) Quianthy, the late Thomas (survived by Linda) Hefferin, the late Steven Hefferin and Cheryl (Michael)
Highland Park shooter pleads guilty
CAPITOL NEWS ILLINOIS
Robert Crimo III, the man accused of carrying out a mass shooting in Highland Park in 2022 that left seven people dead and prompted the passage of a ban on assault-style weapons and high-capacity magazines in Illinois, pleaded guilty March 3 to all charges stemming from that shooting.
Crimo’s trial on 69 counts of murder and attempted murder, was set to begin March 3 in a Lake County courtroom. But before the start of opening arguments in what was scheduled to be a three-week trial, his attorneys informed Judge Victoria Rossetti that he wanted to change his plea.
His mother, Denise Pesina, told Capitol News Illinois she was not expecting her son to plead guilty.
“Well, my son is innocent,”
she said. “My son will be coming home. I’m not quite sure why this happened.”
Ashbey Beasley, who attended the July 4 parade with her son where the shooting took place, said she was relieved at the outcome.
“We are not the first community to go through this, and we are not the last,” she told reporters outside the courtroom.
Crimo was accused of firing into a crowd of people from a rooftop in Highland Park during the city’s annual Independence Day parade using a semiautomatic rifle equipped with three 30-round magazines. He reportedly fired approximately 80 shots in about two minutes, killing seven people while injuring dozens more.
Lake County State’s Attor-
ney Eric Rinehart said afterward that Crimo’s guilty plea was not part of any plea bargaining or negotiation for a lighter sentence.
“He made a free decision to plead guilty to every count that was about to be presented to a jury,” Rinehart said in a state-
ment. “He received nothing in exchange. We were one thousand percent ready for trial and to prove him guilty.”
His sentencing hearing will be April 23. He faces seven consecutive life sentences without the possibility of parole.
Deadline to email letters to editor pertaining to election due by 5 p.m. this Friday, March 14
The deadline for letters to the editor pertaining to the April 1 elections must be sent to us by 5 p.m. this Friday, March 14 to be considered for publication.
Letters must be no longer than 400 words, and be sent by email only to this address: news1@rvpublishing.com
If letters are over 400 words, the Elmhurst Independent reserves to right to edit the letter to fit the word count.
Next week’s issue (March 20) will be the last issue that letters related to the April 1 elections will be published. The Elmhurst Independent will not publish any letters related to elections in the last issue before the election, which is the March 27 issue. Letters that are submitted by a candidate’s campaign will not be considered for publication.
Ericksen; Fond “Bompa” to Melissa (Brian) Berquist, Christina (Tobey) Wilson, Denise (Cavin) McKinley and Ryan (Victoria) Ericksen; Great Grandpa to Allison & Evan Wilson; Marguerite, Annabelle & Lillian Berquist; Olivia & Patrick Ericksen and T.R. & Ferin McKinley.
Visitation was held at Pedersen Ryberg Funeral Home, 435 N. York St., Elmhurst, on Saturday, March 8, 2025 followed by Masonic Funeral Services under the auspices of Elmhurst Lodge # 941 A.F. & A.M.
Memorials may be made to Shriners Hospital for Children, 2211 N. Oak Park Ave., Chicago, IL 60635.
MYRNA K. KENT, 85
Myrna K. Kent (nee Harris), age 85, passed away Saturday, March 1st, 2025.
Myrna was born in Burlington, Iowa, and lived there for eighteen years.
Myrna was the devoted daughter of the late Gerald R. and the late Alice E. (nee Schlagel) Harris. Dearest sister of Robert (Betty) and the late Gerald “Jerry” Harris. Dear aunt of Michael and Barbara. Great aunt of Jacob Graham. She was the devoted companion of the late Bernard J. Callahan. Former wife of the late John P. Kent.
Myrna was a special friend of the Callahan family and a dear friend to many.
Myrna was a resident of the Elmhurst area since 1957. She retired after thirty two years with Paine Webber which later became UBS.
In lieu of flowers memorials to the American Cancer Society or the American Heart Association appreciated. Inurnment in Aspen Grove Cemetery in Burlington, Iowa, will take place at a later date.
DCHD promotes measles prevention, vaccination for a healthy community
In response to the recent measles outbreaks across multiple states, the DuPage County Health Department (DCHD) is reminding residents of the importance of measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccination, particularly if families are traveling for spring break.
Measles is highly contagious and can spread quickly, especially in areas with lower vaccination rates.
The best defense is vaccination, which has been proven safe and highly effective.
At this time, there are no known cases of measles in DuPage County. However, measles is highly contagious, and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) confirms that two doses of the MMR vaccine provide 97 percent immunity (one dose is about 93 percent effective), reducing the risk of infection, illness, and helping to prevent outbreaks.
According to the Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH), 96 percent of DuPage-area school children were vaccinated against measles as of the 2023-24 school year, providing strong community protection.
However, there has been a slight decrease over the past 10 years, from a county-wide protection level of 97.5 percent during the 2014-15 school year.
Of concern, measles cases can still emerge due to travel-related exposures and varying levels of vaccination coverage across DuPage County.
“It is essential to check your vaccination status to ensure you are protected,”
said Adam Forker, executive director, DuPage County Health Department.
“The MMR vaccine is the best way to safeguard yourself, your loved ones, and the community from measles.”
Your doctor’s office or your child’s doctor’s office is usually the best place to receive recommended vaccines. Vaccines may also be available at pharmacies and community health clinics.
Use Vaccines.gov to find a location near you, then call or visit their website to make an appointment.
In addition, DCHD provides the MMR vaccine to eligible children through the Vaccines for Children (VFC) program. This program serves children who are uninsured, underinsured, or Medicaid-eligible.
To find additional providers offering vaccines through the VFC program, visit: Find VFC Providers in Illinois
Most individuals do not require an additional booster. Those born before 1957 are generally considered naturally immune, and individuals vaccinated between 1957 and 1968 are also protected by the original live vaccine. However, residents unsure of their immunity should consult with a healthcare provider and may also check this CDC information on protection against measles
Anyone experiencing symptoms of measles, such as fever, rash, cough, or runny nose, should contact a healthcare provider before visiting a medical facility to prevent potential exposure
to others. For more information, visit the CDC website at www.cdc.gov/measles/
index.html or the DCHD website at https://www.dupagehealth.org/776/Measles
LAND AUCTION
Go with a good neighbor
Go with a good neighbor
THANK YOU TO THE ELMHURST CHAMBER OF COMMERCE FOR NAMING OUR AGENCY THE 2025 ELMHURST BUSINESS OF THE YEAR! Being a good neighbor means being there for my community. As your local State Farm® agent, I'm ready to help whenever you need me. Give me a call.
THANK YOU TO THE ELMHURST CHAMBER OF COMMERCE FOR NAMING OUR AGENCY THE 2025 ELMHURST BUSINESS OF THE YEAR! Being a good neighbor means being there for my community. As your local State Farm® agent, I'm ready to help whenever you need me. Give me a call.
THANK YOU TO THE ELMHURST CHAMBER OF COMMERCE FOR NAMING OUR AGENCY THE 2025 ELMHURST BUSINESS OF THE YEAR! Being a good neighbor means being there for my community. As your local State Farm® agent, I'm ready to help whenever you need me. Give me a call.
Stolper Insurance Agency Inc
Stolper Insurance Agency Inc
Bus:
Worship Services Directory
St. Timothy Evangelical Lutheran Church
547 N. Main St., Lombard, IL 60148 630-627-2435
Sunday Worship at 10:15 am
Lent and Easter Services at 7 p.m.
Sunday School & Bible Study 9 am
Ladies Bible Fellowship Mondays at 6:30 pm
“The Crucial Hours”
Second Lenten Service
Midweek Lenten Services Wednesdays at 7 pm Saturday, March 22, Game Night at 4 pm
March 9, 2022
Rev. David Ernest “Satan Has Asked to Sift All of You” Jerusalem Lutheran, Morton Grove Matthew 27:15-26
Everyone is Welcome!
Third Lenten Service
All services are live streamed. Watch on our website or on Facebook. sainttimothy.org
March 16, 2022
Rev. Paul Spaude “What to Remember When Your are St. Matthews, Niles Seized with Remorse” Matthew 27:3-4
Fourth Lenten Service
March 23, 2022
779 S. York Street Elmhurst, IL 630-834 -6700 www.visitationparish.org
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
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
Daily Masses: Monday—Friday: 6:15 and 8:15 AM Saturday: 8:15 AM
Confessions: Saturday: 3-3:45PM
Confessions: Saturday: 3-3:45PM
Adoration: Available in Our Lady Mother of the Eucharist Chapel 24/7
Adoration: Available in Our Lady Mother of the Eucharist Chapel 24/7
Rev. Jonathan Bergemann “I Will Keep the Passover” Good Shepherd, Downers Grove Matthew 26:18
Welcome to ST. PIUS X CATHOLIC COMMUNITY Diocese of Joliet
Fifth Lenten Service
SUNDAY MASS SCHEDULE
March 30, 2022
SATURDAY: 5:00 PM (VIGIL MASS) 7:00 PM (ESPAÑOL)
Rev. Tom Nicholson “They Bound Him” Resurrection, Aurora John 18:12
SUNDAY: 8:00 AM & 10:00 AM
WEEKDAY MASS SCHEDULE
Sixth Lenten Service April 6, 2022
MONDAY - FRIDAY & FIRST SATURDAY: 8:30 AM FRIDAYS OF LENT: RECONCILIATION 5:30 PM STATIONS OF THE CROSS 6:00 PM SIMPLE SUPPER 6:30 PM VIA CRUCIS 7:00 PM SACRAMENT OF RECONCILIATION ( ENGLISH & ESPAÑOL)
Rev. Phil Schupmann “The Semblance of Legality” Resurrection, Aurora Luke 22:66
SATURDAY: 3:30 PM - 4:30 PM OR BY APPOINTMENT Parish Office: 1025 E. Madison Street - (630) 627-4526 - www.stpiuslombard.org
Maundy Thursday Communion 7 p.m., April 14
Good Friday Tenebrae 7 p.m., April 15
Easter Sunrise 6:30 a.m., April 17
Easter Breakfast 8 a.m., April 17
Easter Festival 10:15 a.m., April 17
Call
or Betty at
at
Join us at the corner of Spring and Vallette 314 W. Vallette Street Elmhurst, IL 630-832-8457 www.epiphanyelmhurst.org
All are Welcome! Worship with us Saturdays 5:30 pm Sundays 9:30 am Sunday services are live streamed on
York Performance in the Round team wins second state title in three years
After winning back-to-back regional and sectional championships, the York Community High School speech and drama team’s Performance in the Round (PIR) piece, “Unless,” earned a state title at the Illinois High School Association (IHSA) Speech State Final in Peoria on Feb. 22. The victory at the state event marked York’s second state championship in the PIR category in three years. York also won the state title in the PIR competition in 2023.
The team of nine students brought its 15-minute adaptation of Dr. Seuss’s “The Lorax” to compete against teams from across the state.
“Unless” tells the story of a father and daughter navigating the complex world of environmental justice and moral dilemmas, through the lens of the beloved children’s story. In the end, the family is reminded that, “Unless someone like you cares a whole awful lot, nothing is going to get better, it’s not.” The York PIR team features Aidan Espinosa (senior), Moon Felten (sophomore), Ava Glavinskas (sophomore), Alexa Klein (senior), John Poulson (sophomore), Liam Rees (junior), Quinn Tolman (senior), and Eva Vitellaro (junior), with Sophia Braafhart (sopho-
more) as stage manager.
“We could not be more proud of this exceptional team of students,” Matt Bourke, PIR director, said. “From the beginning, we set an intention to focus on telling a story we felt mattered and that others needed to hear, and I firmly believe they have accomplished that goal. Beyond anything else, our students shined in their commitment to honest storytelling and a deep appreciation for one another.”
While York’s team changes from year-to-year, it has begun to develop a distinct style of storytelling, with a focus on works that further the program’s message of “Be the good,” while creating exciting and inviting stage pictures for an audience.
“As we were considering the best possible piece to adapt this year, we kept coming back to ‘The Lorax’ for its timely message and the wild Seussian world we hoped to create,” Rebecca Marianetti, PIR director, said. “This larger-than-life tale, combined with the earnestness of a father reading his daughter a story before bed, helps frame this 50-year-old book within our contemporary context. We ask our audiences to laugh and smile at this sweet tale, but also to dig a little deep-
State Rep. Deuter seeks interns
State Rep. Marti Deuter, D-Elmhurst, is hosting a summer internship program.
Students looking to learn more about state government, the legislative process and constituent engagement should apply by emailing a cover letter and resume to office@repmartideuter.com
Internship responsibilities cover the areas of policy research, constituent engagement including canvassing, event planning, production and attendance. Pay is $15/ hour for an anticipated 20-25 hours per week. Must be at least 18 years of age. A detailed job description is available.
Deuter’s district office is located in Westmont.
er into what they could do to help the greater good.”
Relevance and timeliness is always a goal for the directors, stating they find the power of theatre to be transformative when paired with a message an audience is willing to experience. Immediately when the piece was announced, students were ready to get to work.
“‘The Lorax’ is extremely relevant today,” Ava Glavinskas, a sophomore, said. “Now more than ever, the current generation must act, and must help the environment. If we don’t, we will lose our earth. Our PIR touches on these issues in a funny,
sincere way, and is a story that needs to be heard.”
As this is the only team event in the IHSA State Speech Series, it is imperative that a team learns to work together and function as a cohesive unit. An emphasis is placed on ensemble-building above all else, a process that leads to actors trusting one another to make new choices, knowing they have each other’s backs.
“PIR is such an engaging and unique rehearsal process because it relies so heavily on ensemble connection and storytelling,” said senior Alexa Klein. “Our process was a lot of fun, especially creating
a ‘Seussian’ world by leaning into wacky physicality and exaggerated facials and vocal inflections. I think our whole ensemble has learned to trust one another and work as one unit to tell a story and pull the audience into the colorful world we have created together.”
One major tenet of PIR is the reliance on inventive storytelling as a group, not just individual performers. Contest rules place limitations on set pieces, props, lighting, and sound, so much of the work must be done by the actors themselves.
“I learned to work so closely with my friends and how
to create a meaningful story through an almost blank canvas,” said senior Aidan Espinosa. “It was a lovely experience that I wouldn’t trade for the world.”
The IHSA has run the Performance in the Round competition in conjunction with the Individual Events/Speech State Final since 1997. York had previously won the state championship in 2023 with their adaptation of “The Boy, the Mole, the Fox, and the Horse.” This is the second sectional and state championship for the team, though the team is much more proud of what they were able to do with their platform.
A Thank You to the Elmhurst St. Patrick’s Day Parade Committee Members and Sponsors!
The Elmhurst St. Patrick’s Day Parade Committee would like to thank the parade sponsors. This family-friendly event has been made possible for 28 years due to the support of our sponsors. Please let them know you enjoyed the parade. See you next year on March 7, 2026!
EMERALD SPONSORS
CITY OF ELMHURST
COMMUNITY BANK OF ELMHURST
ELMHURST BEARS FOOTBALL AND CHEER
ELMHURST UNIVERSITY ATHLETIC DEPARTMENT
INTERNATIONAL CONTRACTORS, INC
O’CONNOR GARAGE DOOR
ROESCH FAMILY AUTO GROUP
SBC WASTE SOLUTIONS INC. THE ROSASCO FAMILY
PLATINUM SPONSORS
• ENDEAVOR HEALTH ELMHURST HOSPITAL
• SKYLINE SMILES
• KELLY STETLER TEAMCOMPASS
GOLD SPONSORS
• BOTTLE THEORY
• CULTURE CONSTRUCTION
• DISTINCT OUTDOOR LIVING
• DOC’S VICTORY PUB
• ELMHURST EAGLES FOOTBALL AND CHEER
• EUCLID BEVERAGE
• FITZ’S IRISH BULLDOG
• FITZ’S PUB
• LARRY ROESCH VOLKSWAGEN
• LIVE HYDRATION SPA
• MANNY’S ALE HOUSE
• O’HARE TOWING SERVICE
• PHASE THREE BREWING COMPANY
• PREMIER OUTDOOR ENVIRONMENTS INC
• PUNKY’S IRISH PUB
• RILEY’S GATHERING PLACE
• ROBERTO’S, RISTORANTE & PIZZERIA
• SELVIN’S OUTDOOR LIVING
• SPRING INN
• STEVE SMITH WINTRUST MORTGAGE
• SUPERIOR AIR GROUND AMBULANCE SERVICE, INC.
• TEAM ELMHURST SOCCER CLUB
• THE CONCRETE DOCTORS GROUP INC.
• THRIVE PET HEALTHCARE IN ELMHURST
• UPS STORE, CITY CENTRE
SILVER SPONSORS
• @ THE SCHILLER TEAM
• CHICAGO BLUES HOCKEY CLUB
• CINDY CRONIN CAHILL DUPAGE COUNTY BOARD
• CITIZENS FOR SCOTT LEVIN
• D&P CONSTRUCTION
• DUPAGE COUNTY BOARD CHAIRWOMAN DEB CONROY
• ELM SALES
• ELMHURST BANK, WINTRUST COMMUNITY BANK
• ELMHURST BASEBALL AND SOFTBALL LEAGUE
• G2 ROOFING + EXTERIORS LLC
• GREAT AMERICAN EXTERIORS
• JOHN NOLDAN (RATE MORTGAGE)
• KEVIN KIRBY FOR WARD 2 ALDERMAN
• KIMMER’S ICE CREAM
• L.W. REEDY REAL ESTATE
• PAZZI DI PIZZA
• PRESTIGE DECORATING, INC.
• STATE REPRESENTATIVE MARTI DEUTER
• THE AHLGRIM CHAPEL
• THE DAVEY TREE EXPERT COMPANY
• THE ELMHURST INDEPENDENCE
• W3BODY, A WOMEN’S TRAINING GYM
Illinois overdose deaths declined 8% in 2023
The Administration of Gov. JB Pritzker announced that Illinois recorded an 8.3 percent drop in overall drug overdose deaths in 2023, exceeding a nationwide decline of 4 percent.
Specifically, opioid overdose deaths declined 9.7 percent in the state, compared to 3 percent nationally. The new data shows 3,502 overdose deaths in Illinois from all causes in 2023, 317 fewer than in 2022.
The new data comes as the Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) unveiled an expanded Overdose Data Dashboard that shares more
data and makes the tool easier to use for both researchers and the general public.
Pritzker also announced in his Budget Address that, subject to review by the General Assembly, the Illinois Department of Human Services (IDHS) will consolidate its mental health and substance use divisions into an integrated Division of Behavioral Health and Recovery in order to improve access to care and positive outcomes for consumers.
“My administration has worked closely with community providers, experts in the field, and people in recovery
to produce a comprehensive statewide overdose response plan anchored in equity— and today’s announcement reflects those efforts,” said Pritzker.
“From expanding overdose education and Naloxone distribution services to increasing access to recovery homes, we are seeing how our targeted investments are making a difference and saving lives.”
“I am encouraged by the reduction in overdose deaths here in Illinois,” said IDPH Director, Dr. Sameer Vohra.
“This decrease is a testament to the leadership of Gover-
nor Pritzker and the joint and sustained effort from our communities, advocates, and family members to address this public health crisis. However, much more work needs to be done. Mental health and substance use disorder is a priority of our Healthy Illinois 2028 State Health Improvement Plan, and IDPH is proud to display our new upgraded overdose data dashboard as an effort to bring more information to the public and engage in deeper partnerships for impact. Our goal remains implementing evidence-based solutions to further decrease
I Taking You to Your Next !
overdose deaths here in Illinois.”
“Providing life-saving resources for communities is effective, and we are heartened to see this downward trend in overdose deaths. Harm reduction saves lives,” said IDHS Secretary Dulce M. Quintero. “I want to thank Governor Pritzker for his support and leadership in addressing the opioid epidemic from many angles, and we look forward to continuing these efforts with our partners at IDPH.”
According to the new Semiannual Overdose Data Report compiled by IDPH, there was an 8.3 percent decrease in overdose deaths from any drug in Illinois, the first annual reduction in drug overdose deaths in the state since 2018.
Looking just at opioids, there were 2,855 fatalities attributed to opioid overdoses in Illinois in 2023, 305 fewer than 2022, a decrease of 9.7 percent. In 2022, total overdose deaths in Illinois increased 5.1 percent from 2021, and deaths involving opioids were up 8.2 percent.
Deaths involving synthetic opioids (i.e., fentanyl and fentanyl analogs) decreased by 9.5 percent in Illinois in 2023. Deaths involving heroin and natural and semisynthetic opioids decreased by 21.2 percent and 17.4 percent, respectively in 2023. One drug category that saw a notable increase in deaths in 2023 was xylazine, a non-opioid sedative that is used as an adulterant. The report indicates deaths involving xylazine were up 6.4 percent to 249.
State officials note several factors likely contributed to this decline, including sustained efforts to increase naloxone distribution throughout the state; community outreach through harm reduction organizations and drug overdose prevention programs; the availability of fentanyl test strips and other drug checking technologies; updates to the statewide standing order for opioid reversal agents; and improved access to treatment and medication-assisted recovery.
Funded programs remain a high priority.
IDHS has distributed 1 million 2-dose boxes of Narcan (generically called naloxone) to community-based organizations, substance use disorder treatment centers, harm reduction organizations, hospitals, and clinics across Illinois in the last four years. IDHS has also partnered with The Naloxone Project to reduce stigma over naloxone use and increase hospital participation in take-home naloxone distribution efforts. In addition, the IDHS Medication Assisted Recovery (MAR) in Jails program has worked in county jails in 32 participating counties to focus on a population at highest risk of overdose to provide treatment for opioid use disorder.
The downward trend in overdose deaths followed the release of the Pritzker administration’s 2022 State of Illinois Overdose Action Plan. The plan was based on three pillars: prevention (preventing the further spread of the opioid epidemic), treatment and recovery (providing evidence-based treatment and recovery services), and response (averting overdose deaths).
The newly revised Overdose Data Dashboard was developed by IDPH staff in various divisions of the agency in cooperation with partners at IDHS and other stakeholders. It provides additional data in a format that is easier to use than the old dashboard. The expanded dashboard includes data on additional substances, such as cocaine, benzodiazepines, psychostimulants, and alcohol, and allows users to download data.
IDHS and IDPH acknowledge that racial disparities in overdose morbidity remains a significant issue, as Black individuals are still more likely to experience an overdose death than other racial groups. As such, implementing effective interventions to address these disparities, such as the West Side and South Side Heroin/Opioid Task Forces, the Community Outreach and Recovery Services program, and a variety of other Illinois Remediation
If you or someone you know has an opioid use disorder, there is help, including treatment, available immediately, 24 hours a day, seven days a week. With the Medication Assisted Recovery Now (MAR NOW) service, a care manager can help callers determine the best treatment options and connect them to a provider for an immediate phone appointment and medication prescription. Care managers can also facilitate a same- or next-day, in-person appointment. Callers are connected to ongoing treatment with a community provider that best meets their needs. To connect with a MAR NOW care manager, visit the Illinois Helpline online at https://helplineil.org, call 833-234-6343, or text “HELP” to 833234. For more information on opioids, visit https://dph. illinois.gov/topics-services/ opioids.html
Dear Residents,
I am strongly committed to serving with energy and integrity to build upon the experience I bring to the Mayor’s office. I am proud that we have had balanced budgets and have maintained a AAA bond rating in the 14 years I have served on the City Council. For 2023 taxes (paid in 2024), only two of 35 DuPage County municipalities had a total tax rate less than Elmhurst. Throughout my tenure, I have made safety a top priority as Elmhurst was recently recognized as the 8th safest suburb in the United States. I have worked to create vibrant successful business districts, including a downtown that is the envy of many municipalities. I want to continue to lead the City Council to keep Elmhurst moving forward.
Sincerely,
Mayor Scott Levin
EARLY VOTING BEGINS
March 17, 2025
ELECTION DAY
APRIL 1, 2025
(For many, April 1st is spring break. Vote early!)
WITH MAYOR LEVIN WE HAVE:
• Achieved and maintained AAA bond rating
• Balanced budgets with no deficit spending
• One of the lowest retail/commercial vacancy rates in DuPage
• Excellent City Services
• One of the safest cities in the USA
• Maintained the high quality of the Police and Fire Departments
• Enhanced senior programs and outreach
• Expanded community outreach through a redesigned website, Elmhurst Connect and Elmhurst Alerts
• Increased economic development and planning efforts to increase sales tax revenues, to keep our downtown thriving and preserve the character of our neighborhoods
• Updated the City and Downtown Master Plan
• Collaborated among taxing bodies to reduce costs and eliminate duplication
Illinois bill aims to add more oversight of homeschooling
Costa-Howard sponsors legislation that would require families to tell their public school districts if they are homeschooling
By Molly Parker and Beth Hundsdorfer
CAPITOL NEWS ILLINOIS
A new Illinois bill aims to add some oversight of families who homeschool their children, a response to concerns that the state does little to ensure these students receive an education and are protected from harm.
The measure, known as the Homeschool Act, comes after an investigation by Capitol News Illinois and ProPublica last year found that Illinois is among a small number of states that place virtually no rules on parents who homeschool their children. Parents don’t have to register with any state agency or school district, and authorities cannot compel them to track attendance, demonstrate their teaching methods or show student progress.
Under the new bill, families would be required to tell their school districts when they decide to homeschool their children, and the parents or guardians would need to have a high school diploma or equivalent. If education authorities have concerns that children are receiving inadequate schooling, they could require parents to share evidence of teaching materials and student work.
State Rep. Terra Costa Howard, D Glen Ellyn, who is sponsoring the legislation, said she began meeting with education and child welfare officials in response to the news organizations’ investigation, which detailed how some parents claimed to be removing their children from school to homeschool but then failed to educate them.
The investigation documented the case of L.J., a 9-year-old whose parents decided to homeschool him after he missed so much school that he faced the prospect of repeating third grade. He told child welfare authorities that he was beaten and denied food for several years while out of public school and that he received almost no education. In December 2022, on L.J.’s 11th birthday, the state took custody of him and his younger siblings; soon after, he was enrolled in public school.
“We need to know that children exist,” said Costa Howard, vice chair of the Illinois House’s child welfare committee. The legislation is more urgent because the number of homeschooled children has grown since the pandemic began, she said. “Illinois has zero regulations regarding homeschooling—
we are not the norm at all.”
The most recent numbers available at the time of the news organizations’ investigation showed nearly 4,500 children were recorded as withdrawn from public school for homeschooling in 2022—a number that had doubled over a decade. But there is no way to determine the precise number of students who are homeschooled in Illinois, because the state doesn’t require parents to register.
The bill would require the state to collect data on homeschooling families. Regional Offices of Education would gather the information, and the state board would compile an annual report with details on the number, grade level and gender of homeschooled students within each region.
Homeschool families and advocates said they will fight
the measure, which they argue would infringe on parental rights. Past proposals to increase oversight also have met swift resistance. The sponsor of a 2011 bill that would have required homeschool registration withdrew it after hundreds of people protested at the Illinois State Capitol. In 2019, a different lawmaker abandoned her bill after similar opposition to rules that would have required curriculum reviews and inspections by child welfare officials.
The Home School Legal Defense Association, which describes itself as a Christian organization that advocates for homeschool freedom, said it plans to host virtual meetings to educate families on the bill and ways they can lobby against it.
Kathy Wentz of the Illinois Homeschool Association, which is against ho-
LEGAL NOTICE
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
meschool regulations, said she is concerned about the provision that would allow the state to review education materials, called a “portfolio review” in the legislation. She said visits from education officials could be disruptive to teaching.
“There is nothing in this bill to protect a family’s time so they can actually homeschool without interruptions,” Wentz said. She pointed to a 1950 Illinois Supreme Court ruling establishing that homeschooling qualified as a form of private education and that the schools were not required to register students with the state.
The bill would require all private schools to register with the state.
The Capitol News Illinois and ProPublica investigation found that it’s all but impos-
sible for education officials to intervene when parents claim they are homeschooling. The state’s child welfare agency, the Department of Children and Family Services, doesn’t investigate schooling matters.
Under the proposed law, if the department has concerns about a family that says it is homeschooling, the agency could request that education officials conduct a more thorough investigation of the child’s schooling.
The new law would then allow education officials to check whether the family notified its district about its decision to homeschool and compel parents to turn over homeschool materials for review.
Jonah Stewart, research director for the Coalition for Responsible Home Education, a national organization of homeschool alumni that advocates for homeschooling regulation, said the lack of oversight in Illinois puts children at risk.
“This bill is a commonsense measure and is critical not only to address educational neglect but also child safety,” Stewart said.
The increased oversight also aims to help reduce truancy and protect homeschooled students who lose daily contact with teachers and others who are mandated to report abuse and neglect, said Costa Howard, whose district includes Lombard. Some truancy officials said that under existing law they have no recourse to compel attendance or review what students are learning at home when a family says they are homeschooling.
Front Page Advertising
Business & Service
Classifieds
Announcements
CLASSIFIED IN-COLUMN ADS cannot be credited or refunded after the ad has been placed. Ads canceled before deadline will be removed from the paper as a service to our customers, but no credit or refund will be issued to your account.
DISCLAIMER NOTICE This publication does not knowingly accept fraudulent or deceptive advertising. Readers are cautioned to thoroughly investigate all ads, especially those asking for money in advance.
Burial Needs
7 CEMETERY PLOTS Willing to sell as a group or individually. Located at Roselawn Memory Gardens 3045 WI-67, Lake Geneva, WI 53147. This is a private sale. Contact Randy, the seller at randy@slpublishers.com.
Household Items
EASTER LAMB MOLDS, antique cast aluminum, 2 sizes, large & small available. Call Jim for details. 630-832-3432
PUBLISHER’S NOTICE All real estate advertising in this newspaper is subject to the Fair Housing Act which makes it illegal to advertise any preference, limitation or discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, disability, familiar/ status or national origin, or an intention to make any such preference, limitation or discrimination. Familial status includes children under the age of 18 living with parents or legal custodians, pregnant women and people securing custody of children under 18. This newspaper will not knowingly accept any advertising for real estate which is in violation of the law. Our readers are hereby informed that all dwellings advertised in this newspaper are available on an equal opportunity basis. To complain of discrimination call HUD toll-free at 1-900-669-9777. The toll-free tele phone number for the hearing impaired is 1-800-927-9275. EQUAL HOUSING OPPORTUNITY
Business & Service DIRECTORY
Sport S
Timothy Christian girls basketball team wins 17 games
Drye, Van Den Berg earn all-Chicagoland Christian honors; Van Den Berg averages double-double
By Mike Miazga CORRESPONDENT
The Timothy Christian girls basketball team placed a pair of players on the recently released all-Chicagoland Christian Conference team.
Senior Sami Drye and sophomore Elisabeth Van Den Berg both earned all-conference accolades. The duo helped the Trojans go 17-14 overall and reach a Class 2A regional championship game.
“I think we finished about where we thought we would,”
Timothy coach Jill Groenewold said. “Our goal was
20 wins. We didn’t quite get there, but we were pretty close. We were highly competitive in most of our games, which you like to see. I will say this for the kids, and I have said it all season, they never give up and work hard. That’s a nice thing to see out of them.”
The Trojans graduate seniors Drye and Allison Dishman. “Both were captains, great kids and good leaders,”
Groenewold said. “The team was really close. I think that comes from those guys. To their credit, they work real-
ly hard at relationships and pushing to be better the next day than they were before. I appreciated that about them.” Timothy is scheduled to return eight players from this year’s team, which finished sixth in Chicagoland Christian action.
“We’re still relatively young,” Groenewold said. “We started sophomores and juniors predominantly. Hopefully, we’ll have a good off-season and continue to build off the rebuild of this last year.”
Groenewold said the team will continue to focus on offensive improvement. “Offen-
sively, we are going to have to figure out how to score more points. That’s a goal for next year. That was probably the thing that was hardest for us — finding ways to score if we didn’t get something off the fast break or our press.”
Groenewold was impressed with the progress of Van Den Berg, Maria PozdolNiego and Sienna Azzinaro, among others. “Els had a really, really steady year,” she said. “She’s going to have to work on extending her game a little bit from a post presence to shooting a little bit
more outside. She had a very steady year. Maria also had a pretty steady year and did some good things with running offenses and defense and speaking up. They continue to improve steadily. Sienna will continue to get better and better. This was her first year in the system. She was starting to figure out what her role was as the season progressed.”
Van Den Berg led the Trojans both in scoring at 13.8 points and rebounds at 10 per game — she averaged a double-double (double-digits in 2 statistical categories). She
also shot 58 percent from the field on 301 shot attempts. Drye averaged 8.7 points, while Pozdol-Niego averaged 7.7 points and Azzinaro averaged 6.6 points. Pozdol-Niego averaged 3.4 rebounds and led the team in assists (3.9 per game). Drye averaged a teambest 1.9 steals, while Van Den Berg was tops in blocked shots at 1.1 per game.
Drye led the team with 55 three-pointers made, while Azzinaro had 39 three-pointers. Pozdol-Niego shot 67 percent from the free-throw line (54-for-81).
IC Catholic Prep boys basketball breaks school wins record
Hill named to prestigious all-Chicago Catholic League team
By Mike Miazga CORRESPONDENT
It was a record-breaking season for the IC Catholic Prep boys basketball team. The Knights established a new program record for most wins in a season with 25. ICCP went 25-8 overall and finished 6-2 in the Chicago Catholic League White Division. The 1966-1967 and 2011-2012 teams each won 24 games.
ICCP won both the Coal City and ICCP/Westmont Christmas Classic tournament titles. Coach TJ Tyrrell also pointed out the team’s eight losses all were to ranked opponents that had a combined 103-38 mark through late last week. Tyrrell added all but two teams the Knights lost to made it to the sectional.
On the individual front, Danny Fromelt broke the single-season assists record with 135 (4.1 per game), eclipsing Chauncey Lee’s old mark of 90 (3.8 per game) established during the 2018-2019 season. Andrew Hill rounded out his career as the program’s second all-time leading scorer. He established a new single-season mark for points in a season and field goals made in a season, ranked third in 3-pointers made in a season and leaves ICCP with the fourth-highest marks for
most rebounds in a career and in a season.
Hill’s 1,212 career points are second only behind Jay Popp, who scored 1,404 points during the 1963-1966 seasons. Hill’s 649 points in a season broke the old record that had stood since the 1966-1967 season (Jim Morgan with 607). Hill’s 247 field goals made erased a mark that had stood since the 1975-1976 seasons (Kevin Strasser with 231). Hill’s 56.1 career field-goal percentage is fourth all-time (200 shots minimum per season). His 75 three-pointers in a season rank third, while he was six rebounds shy this season of becoming only the fourth Knight in program history to pull in 300. His 673 career rebounds are fourth. Hill also established a new benchmark when he made eight 3s in a game this season.
The 6-6, 210-pound Hill averaged 20.3 points, 9.2 rebounds, 1.6 assists, 1.2 steals, 1.1 blocks and 1.6 deflections this season, while shooting a robust 75.5 percent from the free-throw line (106 attempts), 64.7 percent from the field and 43.9 percent from 3 on 171 attempts. The ICCP team captain earned a spot on the prestigious all-Chicago Catholic League second team. The all-CCL honors encompass both divisions of the league and are divided into five teams plus an honorable mention. Hill was all-tournament at Coal City and hit the 1,000 career-point pla-
teau earlier this month.
Hill also sports a 4.0 grade-point average in the classroom, Tyrrell added “Andrew set a bunch of records or ended up in the top four or five in categories in school history,” Tyrrell noted. “Andrew Hill, obviously, was a beast for us. His statistics were amazing. He played on all ends of the floor. He averaged 20.3 points and almost a double-double (double digits in 2 statistical categories; Hill averaged 9.2 rebounds). He shot 44 percent from the 3-point line. He was outstanding, especially with his size. He can score around the rim and stretch out and knock down a 3. He had so many highlight dunks this season. It was a lot of fun watching him. He’s a great leader and a great student-athlete. He will definitely be missed. He left his mark on the program. He was the only Class 2A player in the conference on the first or second team. He was with the best of the best.”
Tyrrell said this season was, indeed, one for the books. “We did a lot of notable things,” he said. “We had an amazing season. The boys bought in, had amazing chemistry and we all had a lot of fun. We set the tone at the beginning of the season at Thanksgiving with the high level of play. That set the pace for an outstanding and highly competitive season.”
Tyrrell was even more impressed given the Knights’
schedule, which featured the constant CCL buzz saw. “We play a very challenging schedule,” he said. “If you would have told me we would set the school wins record this season, I might have doubted it a little bit. The kids worked so hard, and the coaching staff was dialed in all year.”
ICCP graduates eight seniors in Hill, Fromelt, Makai Mandley, Jordan Hall, Matthew Sloan, Joe McDonough, Luke Wojcik and Will Bryk. “They were all outstanding leaders,” Tyrrell said. “It was interesting because we had a rough summer and the coaching staff and the leaders on the team made it a point to meet in the preseason weekly. That really set the tone for the buyin. We were all on the same page and it showed as soon as the season started.”
Tyrrell noted the cupboard will be far from bare next season. “It will be challenging losing all the leadership in what was a remarkable year,” he said. “The seniors set the example and we already see the younger guys getting in the gym as the season ended. They are hungry for next year. Will Schmidt is a freshman who got very good minutes in the rotation, and we had a strong sophomore team that went 19-11. We still have depth in the program, but we will have some big shoes to fill.”
The Knights lost to Montini in the Class 2A Montini regional championship game in Lombard. To put ICCP’s schedule
into perspective, Chicago DePaul College Prep, Chicago Brother Rice and Chicago Mt. Carmel all won sectional titles recently, while Montini, Burbank St. Laurence, Chica-
go Leo and Wilmette Loyola Academy made it to sectional championship games. ICCP scored wins during the regular season against Leo and Loyola Academy.
York High School announces River Pitlock
as new baseball coach
York High School announced last week that River Pitlock has been named the school’s new varsity baseball coach.
A release issued by District 205 stated that Pitlock “brings a unique blend of competitive experience and proven expertise to a new era of York baseball.”
A proud alumnus of York High School, Pitlock distinguished himself as a three-year varsity shortstop, third baseman, and pitcher. His talent and dedication earned him a four-year pitching scholarship at Butler University, where he further developed his skills.
Pitlock has been an assistant baseball coach at York over the past three seasons, playing an instrumental role in the program’s success. He helped guide the team to multiple postseason appearances, earning three consecutive regional and sectional titles. York won the fourth-place trophy in the 2023 and 2024 IHSA Class 4A state tournaments.
“River’s exceptional background as a proven coach and his deep understanding of the game will undoubtedly elevate our baseball program,” said Rob Wagner, York’s assistant principal for athletics. “His commitment to developing young athletes, combined with his strong community ties and rich baseball legacy, makes him the ideal leader for our team.”
Adding to his distinguished profile, Pitlock is the son of former Major League pitcher Skip Pitlock.
“York High School is excited about the bright future ahead under Pitlock’s leadership and anticipates a season marked by growth, competitiveness, and success,” noted last week’s release from District 205. “The community joins in welcoming him as the head baseball coach and looks forward to witnessing the positive impact of his vision and leadership on the baseball program.”
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, 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.
tration is required. Ages 18 and up, no children under 18 allowed. Register at epd.org.
Sunday, March 16
office at 630-941-0202.
Wednesday, March 19
website: https://elmhurstcitycentre.com/
Monday, March 24
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 regis-
Will play volleyball for Division II school
By Mike Miazga CORRESPONDENT
Recent IC Catholic Prep graduate Bella Leslie wanted to head east for college.
Her landing spot ended up being at NCAA Division II Le Moyne College where the former Knights volleyball and soccer standout will continue her volleyball career at the Syracuse, New York school as a libero.
Elmhurst Symphony Orchestra presents “A Grand Tour.” Starting at 3 p.m. at the Elmhurst Christian Reformed Church, 149 W. Brush Hill Road, the Elmhurst Symphony Orchestra presents an afternoon of musical masterpieces featuring music from around the world. This concert promises a captivating exploration of American, French, Spanish, and Italian music, conducted by Music Director Stephen Alltop. A pre-concert talk will begin at 1:45 p.m. for those interested in learning more about the featured pieces and composers before the performance. Ticket prices are $35$45 for general admission, $32-$42 for seniors and $12 for students. For more details and to purchase tickets, visit ElmhurstSymphony.org or call the Elmhurst Symphony
I feel like I would be so bored without it because it has been such a big part of my life.”
Leslie said she has plenty of memories from IC Catholic Prep’s coach Nancy Kerrigan’s program.
Teen job and volunteer fair. Sponsored by the City of Elmhurst Commission on Youth, the teen job and volunteer fair will be held from 3:05 to 6 p.m. at York High School. Learn about volunteer and paid work opportunities with local organizations. Free. Information on obtaining work permits for those under age 16 will be available.
IC Catholic Prep graduate Leslie headed to Le Moyne
“
Saturday, March 22
“I loved playing there,” she said. “I probably enjoyed school volleyball more than club because I love my team and the coaching staff was very supportive on and off the court. It made it a really good environment to be in. Coach (Kerrigan) was great. I have known her for a while. When I was little, I did all the little kids camps, and her daughter was in my brother’s grade at IC.”
Leslie said she will miss plenty about IC Catholic Prep. “I will miss how close knit of a community it was,” she said. “I knew everybody at the school. It will be weird going on campus and not knowing all the faces. I’ll miss those close connections with the coaches and teachers. It will be weird for the first year or so.”
I’m really excited to be able to play volleyball in college. It gives me something to do. I feel like I would be so bored without it because it has been such a big part of my life.”
– Bella Leslie
Spring scavenger hunt Presented free by the Elmhurst City Centre and recurring daily, more than 100 adorable barnyard animals have arrived in Downtown Elmhurst, and they are eager to be found. Take a stroll through downtown businesses and search for at least 20 of them for a chance to win prizes. Player cards are available at all participating merchants or on the ECC
IC Catholic Prep track teams busy on indoor circuit
By Mike Miazga
CORRESPONDENT
The IC Catholic Prep boys and girls track teams had some recent notable individual accomplishments on the indoor circuit. At the recent Proviso West indoor boys invitational, senior Evan Smith
took second in the 200 with a time of 23.28. On the frosh-soph level at Proviso West, sophomore KJ Reese took first in the 60-meter dash with a time of 7.27.
“All of the schools I was looking at were on the East Coast,” Leslie told the Independent last week. “I visited Le Moyne and really liked it. It reminded me of high school because it was a small school, and in a smaller school you will know a lot more faces than if I would have gone to a bigger school. The campus there is really pretty. It sits on a big hill and the scenery around it is great. Everything is pretty close together. They have very nice facilities. The volleyball program has good workout facilities and a nice locker room. I liked how modern it was.”
First Pets: American presidents and their furry family members. Presented free by the Elmhurst Public Library from 7-8 p.m., most U.S. presidents have had companion animals live with them at the White House. These pets have served to both unite—and sometimes divide—the nation. Pets have even played a role in international diplomacy. Revisit some of the First Pets over the last 70 years with heartwarming and sometimes surprising stories. Live in-person and virtually on Zoom. Registration required. For more information, call 630279-8696 or visit: https:// elmhurstpubliclibrary.libcal. com/calendar
Thursday, March 27
The Women who Mea-
sured the Stars. Presented free by the Elmhurst Public Library from 7-8 p.m., In the late 19th and 20th centuries, women astronomers of the Harvard College Observatory calculated the distances, temperatures, and composition of the stars. However, their legacy and place in history was largely eclipsed by their male counterparts. Learn about the scientific contributions made by astronomers Henrietta Swan Leavitt, Annie Jump Cannon, and Cecilia Payne. Live in-person and virtually on Zoom. Registration required. For more information, call 630-279-8696 or visit: https://elmhurstpubliclibrary.libcal.com/calendar
Elmhurst History Museum
Info: elmhursthistory.org.
Elmhurst Art Museum Info: 630-834-0202 or visit elmhurstartmuseum.org.
York alum Grace playing at Nebraska; Filosa, Silkaitis all-conference for York girls hoops
Leslie plans on studying nursing at Le Moyne. “They have a good nursing program,” she said. “As far as what kind of a nurse I want to be, I’m not quite sure yet.”
The ICCP girls team recently competed at the Rockton Hononegah Girls Classic
Leslie played volleyball and girls soccer at IC Catholic Prep all four years. She was a center-midfielder on the Knights soccer team.
York High School announces Brad Sullivan as the Dukes’ new boys’ tennis coach
York High School announced last week that Brad Sullivan has been named the new coach for the school’s boys’ tennis program.
Leslie’s volleyball journey started in the fifth grade, the first year she could play the sport at IC Grade School. She’s been playing club volleyball since seventh grade, most recently with the Chicago Elite group that practices out of Scores in Willow Springs and Montini High School in Lombard. “I’m really excited to be able to play volleyball in college,” she said. “It gives me something to do.
• Stopka
A statement from District 205 related that Sullivan brings decades of tennis expertise, a deep-rooted passion for the game, and a proven track record in competitive tennis.
and the Rockford Auburn invitational. At Hononegah, sophomore Kathryn Anderson won the JV 400 with a time of 1:07.91. At Rockford Auburn, senior Kiely Kemph took fifth in the varsity 400 with a time of 1:04.69, while Grace Gildea was fifth in the 3,200 run with a time of 13:25.08.
York alum Grace earns academic honors
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
(Continued from page 18)
They lost to West Chicago on I think an own goal in the last five minutes. That was against the state champs in the sectional finals. That’s a hell of a season if you ask me.”
“Brad’s rich competitive background and commitment to developing young athletes will undoubtedly elevate our boys’ tennis program,” said Rob Wagner, York’s assistant principal for athletics. “His approach not only builds athletic prowess but also instills values that help shape well-rounded individuals.”
Stopka will teach Spanish at York. He taught Spanish and one math class at St. Pat’s. “My philosophy is I am more of a players’ coach,” he said.
Sullivan’s tennis journey began in the 1980s at the Aurora Tennis Club, where he trained under United States Tennis Association (USTA) Hall of Fame Coach Jack Sharpe. His impressive career saw him excel in local, regional, and national tournaments before exploring various athletic ventures.
“For over 25 years in Elmhurst, he has remained closely connected to tennis, nurturing his love for the sport through his children’s participation,” added last week’s release announcing Sullivan as the school’s new boys’ tennis coach. “His dedication to tennis and belief in its capacity to build character and life skills make him a great fit to lead the boys’ program. York High School is enthusiastic about the future of the boys’ tennis team under Coach Sullivan’s leadership and looks forward to a season of growth, competitiveness, and success both on and off the court.”
Former York boys basketball standout Jeff Grace is now a 6-3 junior guard on the University of Nebraska men’s basketball team where he has earned a variety of academic honors. Grace was named a Big Ten Distinguished Scholar in 2024, while also earning academic all-Big Ten honors in 2024. Grace was named to the school’s scholar-athlete honor roll in the falls of 2022, 2023 and the springs of 2023 and 2024.
“I have been a big Liverpool soccer supporter ever since 2015 when Jurgen Klopp came over and he’s known as a players’ coach. He’s kind of my coaching idol. I want to related to the players and form bonds with them. I am more light-hearted and smiling. I like to have fun and joke with the kids. The goal is understanding where each player can be successful and the provide the best way possible to convey the knowledge they need at the position they play. I am not big at yelling at the group, and I’m not a
huge rah-rah person. I’m a little bit more of an individual players’ coach. I will pull kids to the side at practice and games and teach them.”
He also earned the UNL Gold Academic Medallion in 2024.
Grace has played in 11 games this season for the Huskers (17-14). He was a walk-on at Nebraska after spending the 2021-2022 season at Arizona State University where he red-shirted. Grace was a two-time all-West Suburban Silver selection at York. He helped the Dukes to a school-record 29 wins in 2019 and 28 wins during the 2019-2020 season. Grace is a member of the Nebraska Student-Athlete Advisory Committee this year. Nebraska failed to make the Big Ten Conference tournament
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 goofy time. You have to be accessi-
and is awaiting word of a potential postseason appearance.
Two York girls hoops players named allconference
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.”
The York girls basketball team placed a pair of players on the all-West Suburban Conference Silver Division team. Senior Anna Filosa, who eclipsed the 1,000-career-point mark this season, and junior Olivia Silkaitis both earned all-conference honors.
Timothy
Christian boys basketball
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.”
The Timothy Christian boys basketball team finished the 2024-2025 season with a 9-21 overall mark and took sixth in the Chicagoland Christian Conference with a 3-5 record. Wheaton Academy won the conference with an 8-0 mark.
ble and transparent and communicate with everybody.”
Junior Marc Gamble led the team in scoring at 18 points per game, while sophomore Dylan Drye averaged 7.0 points. Gamble also led the team in rebounding at 6.8 per game. Drye led the team in assists at 2.6, while junior Wes Hueber averaged 2.4 assists. Gamble also was tops in steals at 1.9 per game.
Gamble hit 66 three-pointers while shooting 36 percent from behind the 3-point line. Drye nailed 52 three-pointers and shot 30 percent from 3. Also of note, Gamble sank 119 of 144 foul shots (83 percent). Adam Roland shot 77 percent from the free-throw line (36-for-47).
As far as the future, Stopka wants York competing at a high level on a consistent basis. “The short-term goal is to restock and build up the team,” he said. “A large portion of last year’s team was seniors, especially the starting 11. We have to make sure the now juniors are up to the speed of the varsity level and are ready to contribute. We want to keep that pipeline going with the younger groups of players. We want to make sure we are not only competitive, but that we are competing for regionals, sectionals and supersectionals. It starts for me with this junior class that is coming in. We want them ready to go and setting the standard for these other classes that come in so they can also contribute right off the bat.”
York Girls Track and Field Galiano-Sanchez, Moriarty, Navarre and Stoddard won the 3,200 relay title at the recent York indoor invitational with a time of 9:52.20, which was well ahead of the second-place team (10:19.30). The meet featured four of the top 25 teams from the 2024 Class 3A state track and field meet and five of the top 20 teams from the 2024 Class 3A cross country state finals meet.
CHRIS FOX PHOTO Elmhurst Independent
Bucolo fires
Sophia Galiano-Sanchez, Scarlett Moriarty, Morgan Navarre, Sofia Stoddard
Fun in the sun at annual St. Patrick’s Day parade
Mother Nature couldn’t have been more accommodating for the 28th annual Elmhurst St. Patrick’s Day parade on Saturday, with sunny skies and temperatures in the mid-to-upper 40s. Now ranked as the second largest St. Patrick’s Day parade in the Chicago area, the Elmhurst St. Patrick’s Day featured colorful floats, local, county and state politicians, bands such as the York High School marching band (above) and the always popular Elmhurst Armpit Orchestra, Irish dancers … and children and adults donned in colorful Irish attire. Of course, kids lined the parade route along Spring Road with bags in hand, seeking to stock up on candy and assorted goodies passed out by parade participants.
MIKE SANDROLINI PHOTOS Elmhurst Independent
Athlete of the Month Athlete of the Month
Trevor Munk
Timothy Christian Schools would like to recognize Trevor Munk as our Athlete of the Month. Trevor is a Senior member of the Boys Volleyball team. In his third year as a starter, Trevor brings his strength and consistency as a standout Outside Hitter. As the returning Chicagoland Christian Conference Player of the Year, he is set to lead the Trojans this season with skill and experience. With high expectations and a determination to excel, Munk looks forward to making a significant impact in his final season. We anticipate a fantastic season for the Trojans with Munk’s leadership and athleticism. Go Trojans!
Recognized by
MIKE SANDROLINI PHOTOS Elmhurst Independent
New agriculture exhibit opens at the Elmhurst History Museum this Friday, March 14
The Elmhurst History Museum, 120 E Park Ave., will debut its next original exhibit, Acre by Acre: Our Farming Heritage, beginning this Friday, March 14, and continuing through Aug. 10.
The new exhibition will explore how early settlers transformed the land in which Elmhurst sits today into a thriving farming community and delves into the rich history of farming throughout the western suburbs.
Through historic artifacts, photos, and a variety of interactive elements, from allow-
ing visitors to try out historic farm tools and chores to a play Farmers Market, this vibrant, family-friendly exhibit will showcase the evolution of the agricultural industry in DuPage County. The exhibit will also be supported by numerous public events, including: “Babe” Film Screening: Friday, April 4; 2 p.m.
Enjoy a free viewing of the 1995 classic, “Babe,” a heartwarming and fun story about finding your place in the world, at the Elmhurst Public Library. All ages. No registra-
tion required.
Acre by Acre: Our Farming Heritage Gallery Talk: Sunday, April 13; 12 p.m.
Join Elmhurst History Museum Curator of Exhibits, Sarah Cox, for an exclusive guided tour of the museum’s latest exhibit and discover how early settlers transformed the Elmhurst area into a thriving farming community. She will dive into notable local farming families, the evolution of the Chicagoland farming industry, and reveal how this once-farming town developed into the bustling suburb
we know today. Mother’s Day Bouquets Workshop: Saturday, May 10, 1-2:30 p.m.
Create a unique floral arrangement for Mother’s Day as we partner with the University of Illinois Extension Master Gardeners. Workshop attendees will create beautiful spring arrangements through the instruction of Illinois Master Gardener Marlene Ashby. All materials, including flowers and vases, will be provided. Attendees are welcome to bring their own flowers if they wish. Light bites and beverag-
es will be available. Space is limited to 15. The cost is $30/ person.
Community Roots Lecture: Sunday, May 18; 12 p.m.
Visit the Churchville OneRoom Schoolhouse for an immersive look into the early days of DuPage County with local historian Jonathan Sebastian.
At this National Register of Historic Places, together with Fischer Farm and nearby Zion Lutheran Church, learn how early settlers lived, worked, worshipped, and how
they were educated. Peek into incredible local history and learn how this community started. Space is limited to 30.
Family Farm Fest: Sunday, July 13; 1–4 p.m.
Join the Elmhurst History Museum for a family-friendly visit back in time to the early days of Elmhurst. Enjoy live music from Bluegrass band Bourbon Aristocracy, meet chickens, goats, and llamas at the petting zoo, touch a historic tractor, learn about harvesting honey from a beekeeper, try your hand at old fashioned farm chores, and more.
Pritzker wants Illinois to be latest state to ban cellphones in classroom
By Ben Szalinski CAPITOL NEWS ILLINOIS
Are cellphones a useful tool or a distraction in the classroom? According to Gov. JB Pritzker, they’re a distraction, and he has proposed banning them during classroom instruction.
Pritzker proposed legislation during his State of the State speech in February that would call for banning cellphones during classroom learning time. However, his proposal would not ban cellphones in school entirely, meaning students may still be allowed to use their devices between classes. Private schools would not be included in the ban.
“In conversations with
educators from around the state, there is one thing most commonly cited as an impediment to classroom learning: cellphones,” Pritzker said at a news conference last week in Champaign.
Some of Illinois’ largest school districts already have adopted their own limits on cellphones in their classrooms, including Springfield, Peoria and Champaign.
“We want our students’ phones turned off so their minds can be fully engaged in learning,” Champaign Unit 4 School District Superintendent Sheila Boozer said.
The Champaign district implemented cellphone limits beginning last fall and said the response from parents and
teachers has been positive.
“Since every student is provided with a Chromebook for schoolwork, a cellphone is not really necessary for their learning,” Boozer said.
Schools would be required to come up with their own guidelines for securely storing the phones during instructional time.
Pritzker’s plan would also prohibit students from being fined or punished by a law enforcement officer for violating a no-cellphone policy.
“Study after study has demonstrated the benefits of a ban in classroom use of cellphones, not just on student performance but on overall health and well-being,” Pritzker said.
“Bullying goes down while grade point averages and Advanced Placement test scores goes up.”
Pritzker’s proposal would include several exemptions to such a ban, including in the event of an emergency, when a teacher allows students to use wireless devices for educational purposes or when a doctor requires a student to have or use their phone for medical reasons.
At some recent school shootings, such as in Uvalde, Texas, students made critical 911 calls. Rep. Patrick Sheehan, R-Lockport, who is a Plainfield police officer, told Capitol News Illinois its important students can access a cellphone in emergencies.
“The kids having these devices to be able to call 911 dispatch so that they can get to the police officers, it cuts down on the response time and completely saves lives,”
Sheehan said.
Sheehan said it’s important students have a distraction-free environment, but he cautioned against schools enacting a policy that could lock phones away from students.
“Taking away the cellphones and putting them in some sort of lock or away from the student, as a parent I don’t like it,” Sheehan said.
“And as a police officer, I definitely don’t like it.”
Eight states enacted some type of limit on cellphones in schools last year, Stateline re-
ported last month. This year, Illinois is one of 13 states where legislation has been proposed to limit cellphones in schools.
A 2023 Pew Research poll of public school teachers found 72 percent of high school educators believe cellphone distractions are a “major problem” in their classroom. But 60 percent of high schools teachers said it is also difficult to enforce cellphone policies. Bans on cellphones during class time are generally popular among U.S. adults. While 53 percent do not support banning phones in schools for the entire day, 68 percent support banning them during class, according to a 2024 Pew poll
