EI012325

Elmhurst Independent

IC Catholic Prep alumni cheer on the Fighting Irish

IC Catholic Prep graduate Carl Knable (Class of 2021), who is now a member of the University of Notre Dame Marching Band, is pictured with IC Catholic Prep President Bob Cronin (Class of 1978) at the Sugar Bowl game in New Orleans on Jan. 2. Notre Dame defeated the University of Georgia 23-10 in the Sugar Bowl contest at the Caesars Superdome. The game was one of four quarterfinal matchups in the NCAA Division I College Football Playoff. Notre Dame advanced to the semifinal round and faced Penn State in the Orange Bowl game in Miami Gardens, Florida, on Jan. 9. Notre Dame edged Penn State 27-24 in the Orange Bowl to earn a spot in the College Football Playoff National Championship. Notre Dame faced Ohio State earlier this week in the championship game at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta.

A special honor for Abby Vander Wal

Gatorade recently named Timothy Christian senior Abby Vander Wal as the 2024-25 Gatorade Illinois Volleyball Player of the Year. Vander Wal is the first student-athlete from Timothy Christian to receive the honor. In addition to celebrating athletic excellence, the Gatorade Player of the Year program celebrates academic achievement and exemplary character demonstrated on and off the court. Vander Wal, a four-year varsity player, led the Trojans to a 39-3 record during the 2024 season. Timothy Christian won the third-place trophy in the 2024 IHSA Class 2A state tournament, which concluded on Nov. 16. Vander Wal (No. 12) is pictured during Timothy Christian’s super-sectional victory over Latin School of Chicago on Nov. 11. The Trojans earned their trip to the Class 2A state semifinals with that supersectional victory on their home court. After losing a semifinal match in Normal on Nov. 15, the Trojans finished their season with a victory in the Class 2A third-place match on Nov. 16. Vander Wal, a 6-3 outside hitter, recorded 455 kills and 220 digs for the Trojans during the 2024 season. She concluded her four-year high school volleyball career with 1,398 kills. Vander Wal has signed a letter of intent to attend the University of Texas, where she will continue her academic and volleyball careers. Gatorade’s Player of the Year program annually recognizes one winner from each of the 50 states and the District of Columbia across 12 different sports, as well as one national winner in each sport. As part of Gatorade’s commitment to breaking down barriers in sports, every Player of the Year winner also receives a grant to donate to a social impact partner. To date, the program has provided over $5.6 million in grants to more than 2,000 organizations.

SUBMITTED PHOTO Elmhurst Independent

CHRIS FOX FILE PHOTO Elmhurst Independent

Longtime resident was a ‘First Lady’ of Elmhurst

Virginia ‘Ginny’ Harmon was a ‘trailblazer,’ says her daughter

By Jane Charmelo FOR THE ELMHURST INDEPENDENT

Longtime resident and community volunteer Virginia “Ginny” (nee Justus) Harmon, passed away on Dec. 17, 2024, at the age of 98.

According to her daughter, Cindy Lucking, Ginny established roots in Elmhurst when the Harmons moved here after her dad, Earle, was transferred in 1958 for his work; but not before first creating other roots in Oklahoma City, Okla., where they both grew up.

The couple met in high school, Lucking noted, and married when Ginny was 17 and Earle was 21 (with her parents’ permission).

They had actually met on a blind date, she continued, but, she said with a laugh, “They were not each other’s date!”

“My dad took one look at her and that was it,” Lucking added. “They were married for 70 years.”

While Earle served during World War II, Ginny went to live with her sister in Texas. When Earle returned from the service, they moved back home to Oklahoma City where they worked and continued their education until moving to Elmhurst.

The seeds they planted for those new roots in Elmhurst would grow into Ginny volunteering for many organizations, serving on boards, opening a business and making a difference in the lives of the Elmhurst community.

One of the first things she did, Lucking recounted, was get involved with the Elmhurst Evening Woman’s Club, where she served as president in 1965 and also directed the club’s choral group called The Harmonettes for 25 years.

The Harmonettes performed on many occasions, even getting their

families and friends involved in participating in programs that Lucking said helped to raise funds for purchasing a new bandshell for Elmhurst.

Ginny and Earle joined the Elmhurst Presbyterian Church where she served as an elder and was a member of the choir and a soloist.

Earle’s job required him to travel a great deal and fortunately, she was able to join him many times to a lot of interesting destinations. She got the “travel bug” prompting them to open Unique Travel Service which

remained in business for 50 years, Lucking said.

That move led her to become involved in the Elmhurst Chamber of Commerce; she was a board member of the Elmhurst Economic Development Corp. for two terms, and was the first woman on the chamber’s board of directors, and also became the first woman president of the chamber.

“She was most proud of helping establish the Elmhurst Chamber Ambassadors, who to this day are still present at chamber events wearing

their bright green coats,” Lucking pointed out.

Ginny received recognition from various organizations, including Illinois Business Woman of the Year (1985) from the Illinois Federation of Women’s Clubs, and was honored with a “Salute to Women in Business” (1997) from the Elmhurst chamber. In 1998 Ginny was honored with the Civic Hall of Fame

Award at the opening of “Elmfest.” Unique Travel won an award in 2000 as a woman-owned company, and Ginny was selected as one of the “Prominent Women of the Twentieth Century” in a 2001 book called “First Ladies of Elmhurst,” written by Eugenie Urick and Ruth Strand. Ginny also served on the YMCA

RESIDENT, Page 4

PHOTOS COURTESY OF CINDY LUCKING Elmhurst Independent Longtime Elmhurst resident Virginia “Ginny” Harmon passed away on Dec. 17 at the age of 98. Very active in the local community, she is pictured above (front row, center) with the Elmhurst Evening Woman’s Club ensemble, The Harmonettes, which she directed for 25 years. She is also pictured at left (center) at the 25th anniversary ribbon cutting of her business, Unique Travel Service.

Virginia (Ginny” (nee Justus) Harmon

February is National Children’s Dental Health Month.

Did you know that dental-related ailments are responsible for the loss of more than 50 million school hours each year? That’s right. Thousands of children miss school every year because of some dental-related ailment. Fortunately, many of these ailments can be prevented through good oral care.

This National Children’s Dental Health Month, make your child’s smile a priority. Take them to the dentist regularly and teach them to care for their teeth properly.

The elmhursT IndependenT

Your Hometown Newspaper

Locally owned and operated

240 N. West Avenue Elmhurst, IL. 60126

Main Phone 630.834-8244

Fax 630.834-0900

Visit us at: TheElmhurstIndependent.com

The Elmhurst Independent USPS#022-607 is published every Thursday by Rock Valley Publishing, LLC, 240 N. West Avenue, Elmhurst, IL. 60126. Periodical Postage Paid at Elmhurst, IL.

Display Advertising:

630.834-8355

Classified Advertising: 630.834-8244

News:

630.834-8244

General Information:

630.834-8244

E-mail:

Advertising Department: ads1@rvpublishing.com

News Department: Independent@rvpublishing.com

Classified Department: Classifieds@rvpublishing.com

Administration: Chris Fox News Coordinator

Debra Hamilton Advertising Director

Pete Cruger Publisher

Advertising: Brenda Garcia

Office Manager: Betty Jesensky

Subscriptions:

The Elmhurst Independent print version is mailed to residents in the 60126 zip code with a paid donation. See inside this issue for an order form. Out-of-area mail subscriptions are $45.00 yearly. Single copies are also available at more than 80 newsstand locations in Elmhurst. For home delivery information call 630.834-8244.

Reprints:

Content appearing in the Elmhurst Independent may not be reprinted without permission of the publisher or editor. Requests should be directed to Independent@rvpublishing.com or 630.834-8244.

Postmaster: Please send address changes to: THE ELMHURST INDEPENDENT

240 N. West Avenue, Elmhurst, IL. 60126

Office Hours: Monday-Friday 11am-3pm

DuPage County, DuPage Foundation work with DuPagePads to shelter homeless

DuPage County and DuPage Foundation have provided nearly $400,000 to DuPagePads to provide housing for residents throughout the cold, winter months.

In December, DuPagePads President and CEO April Redzic approached the county for assistance after DuPagePads’ Interim Housing Center had reached capacity, with the waiting list growing to three times its typical size.

DuPagePads sought funding to provide shelter through the winter.

The DuPage County Board allocated $200,000 from the county’s affordable housing fund to assist DuPagePads. Chair Deb Conroy asked for assistance from DuPage Foundation, which contributed $190,000 in combined support from its Emergency Fund, donors, fund holders, and network of area funding partners.

The DuPagePads Board also provided $150,000 to the cause. “The problem of housing insecurity is pervasive, impacting our communities more each day,” said Conroy. “I’m proud to work with DuPage Foundation to support DuPagePads and make an impact to help our residents achieve stability and selfsufficiency. I hope we can build upon this partnership to find new, long-term strategies to get ahead of the need and make a lasting impact.”

“DuPage Foundation is proud to lead with Chair Conroy and the DuPage County Board to engage our community in addressing pressing challenges,” said Mike Sitrick, president and CEO of DuPage Foundation. “With an allocation from our Emergency Fund and support from a number of our donors, fund holders, and partners from our DuPage Funders’ Collaborative, we were able to quickly rally nearly $200,000 and join the county in swiftly addressing Pads’ crisis. This is the power of collective impact at work. Through public-private partnerships between donors, businesses, foundations, local government, and not-for-profits, there is tremendous opportunity to help our community thrive today and

• Resident

(Continued

board for 16 years.

Elmhurst College also played a big role in Ginny’s involvement in the community.

“Both my mother and father felt it was a privilege to be a part of the growth and development of the college,” Lucking outlined, citing how in 1992 her parents were invited by the Fricks, along with three other couples, “to help form a new organization of citizens in the community, tasked with linking the college and community together for the mutual benefit of both. They happily accepted.”

Ginny once spoke, in 1999, at Elmhurst College Celebrates Women “Putting Our Stamp on America.” Women in Leadership: Past, Present and Future, and she emphasized the importance of having initiative, the right attitude, good self manage-

assist DuPagePads.

for the long term.”

“The County Board and DuPage Foundation’s support for our work to save lives through emergency shelter is incredible. We’re so grateful for their help. People who had been on our waitlist going into this cold weather can have a safe bed when temperatures are below freezing,” said DuPagePads President and CEO April Redzic. “Our county has played a huge role in DuPagePads’ efforts to meet the growing need in our community.”

Redzic thanked the county for demonstrating its commitment to helping unhoused residents during

from page 2)

“ I always considered my mom [to be] a true trailblazer … a multitalented woman. She was one of a kind. Everything she did, she did it to the fullest.”

– Cindy Lucking

ment; being able to set goals; and developing the ability to get along with coworkers.

Ginny served on the board of trustees and in 2005 the Harmons

the pandemic by dedicating $5 million in county funds to acquire the building that became the Interim Housing Center. The county has also assisted Pads with its rapid rehousing initiative for domestic violence survivors.

Through their DuPage Community Transformation Partnership, DuPage County and DuPage Foundation provided nearly $400,000 funding improvements to the Interim Housing Center and for services for unhoused families.

“The County Board is truly setting the standard for how counties can step up to change lives for the bet-

were awarded the Founders Medal, at which time she stated that serving on the board was “a very rewarding and educational experience.”

Serving on several committees, she observed how the college was “attracting very outstanding and talented young people,” while at the same time praising the “exemplary faculty.”

“It’s heartwarming knowing they’ll still be making a difference in the lives of students, enabling them to reach their potential and follow their dreams through the Earle Darby Harmon III Endowed Scholarship Fund and the Virginia Harmon Endowed Scholarship Fund for International Studies,” Lucking commented.

Additionally, Ginny served as a trustee of the Elmhurst Memorial Hospital Foundation for 23 years

ter,” Redzic said.

About DuPage Foundation

DuPage Foundation, a 501(c)(3) community foundation, is DuPage County’s champion for philanthropy. DuPage Foundation manages more than $145 million in assets and has awarded more than $100 million in grants since its founding in 1986. Individuals and organizations seeking to provide impactful support to address critical issues in DuPage County and beyond can create powerful customizable gift solutions and partnerships through DuPage Foundation. Learn more at dupagefoundation.org.

and along with her husband Earle, actively served on annual giving and capital fundraising campaigns which included a substantial leadership gift they gave to the Elmhurst Memorial Center for Health campaign, according to Lucking.

Lucking proudly reflected on Ginny’s life, saying that for as long as she can remember, “I always considered my mom [to be] a true trailblazer … a multi-talented woman. She was one of a kind.”

“Everything she did, she did it to the fullest,” Lucking summed up.

Ginny was preceded in death by her husband (2014) and son Darby (1990), and was the grandmother of three grandsons and two great-granddaughters.

A private family service will be held in Oklahoma City at a later time.

DuPage Foundation and the DuPage County Board recently presented a check of nearly $400,000 to

SUBMITTED PHOTO Elmhurst Independent

Presentation to the Elmhurst Lions Club

Crime analyst Diane Schmidt and officers of the Elmhurst Police Department’s Strategic Mission Team gave a presentation to members of the Elmhurst Lions Club last week. The presentation, which focused on area crime trends, also demonstrated some of the technology that officers currently use to apprehend suspects.

Giannoulias announces IDs in Apple Wallet will be coming to Illinois

The Illinois Secretary of State‘s office is working to bring IDs in Apple Wallet to Illinois residents in the future with the goal of launching by the end of the year, Secretary Alexi Giannoulias has announced.

This capability will enable residents to seamlessly and securely add and present their driver’s licenses and state IDs in person and in apps using their iPhone or Apple Watch. The news follows legislation that took effect at the beginning of the year, which enabled the Secretary of State’s office to begin this work. The plan includes robust testing requirements to ensure the office delivers the most secure and private product for Illinois residents, Giannoulias said.

“We’re excited to have kickstarted our work with Apple—a company that shares our commitment to data security—to provide IDs in Apple Wallet that will offer convenience and privacy for Illinoisans,” said Giannoulias, whose office pushed for the legislation enabling the development of mobile driver’s licenses and state IDs in Illinois. “This is the first component of a multi-faceted approach to deliver a state-of-the-art mobile driver’s license and state ID program that leverages best-in-class technology for residents.”

Once the program launches, driver’s licenses and state IDs in Wallet will provide an easy and more secure way for Illinoisans to present their identification. Users will have the ability to add their driver’s license or state ID to Wallet and simply tap their

iPhone or Apple Watch to present it in person, without taking out their physical card or handing over their device.

The office has set up a sign-up page for Illinoisans to receive updates about the mobile driver’s license and state ID program and when IDs in Apple Wallet will become available for users.

Anyone interested can visit www. ilsos.gov/mDL to sign up.

Mobile driver’s licenses and state IDs will not be mandatory and will serve as a companion, rather than a replacement, to a physical card.

Presenting an ID in Apple Wallet will allow for more security and privacy than presenting a physical card. Using Apple Wallet, only the information needed for the transaction is presented, and the user has the opportunity to review and authorize the information being requested with Face ID or Touch ID before it is shared. This means that a mobile driver’s license or ID holder can provide proof of their age when legally purchasing alcohol or renting a car, without sharing other personal information—like their address.

Illinois joins 10 states and territories that have adopted IDs in Apple Wallet, including Arizona, Colorado, California, Georgia, Hawaii, Iowa, Maryland, New Mexico, Ohio and Puerto Rico.

Giannoulias also expects to bring mobile driver’s licenses and IDs to additional digital wallets, such as Google Wallet for Android users, in the future.

For more information on IDs in Apple Wallet, visit https://learn.wallet. apple/id.

SUBMITTED

Police beat

The Elmhurst Police Department recently reported the following arrests and citations. Persons charged with domestic battery are not named in order to protect the privacy of victims. Readers are reminded that an arrest does not constitute a conviction, and that subjects are considered innocent unless proven guilty in a court of law. Juveniles age 17 or younger are not named.

Assault, battery

Jan. 10-Jan. 11

A reporting officer responded to Edward-Elmhurst Hospital for the report of an outside jurisdiction sexual assault. The Chicago Police Department was notified of the incident.

Jan. 10

Patrick Lockman, 39, of Elmhurst, was issued a citation for battery and served with a no-trespass notice at business in the 100 block of N. York. Police said the suspect was involved in an altercation with two victims.

Criminal damage

Jan. 12

Victims in the 100 block of N. Willow told police that the tires on their vehicles were slashed.

A complainant at Edward-Elmhurst Hospital told police the suspect was asked to leave and was observed on camera throwing several objects and shattering a window.

Domestic incident, disorderly conduct, disturbance,

domestic battery

Jan. 15

Brandon D. Barber, 18, of Hanover Park, was issued a citation for disorderly conduct at York High School. Police said an officer was notified that a student was in possession of a hatchet on school grounds. According to police, the student, Barber, was located and the hatchet was retrieved and secured.

Jan. 13

A complainant in the 400 block of W. St. Charles told police that an unknown female ran towards him stating someone had beaten her up. The unknown female ran away after an unknown male was seen observing the pair. Officers were unable to locate the female or the unknown male.

Jan. 10

Police said officers assisted the Illinois State Police with a traffic stop on a vehicle that was reported to be involved in a road rage incident. The officers cleared the scene without incident.

DUI, consumption of alcohol by a minor, illegal possession of alcohol

Jan. 15

Yuri Postolaki, 40, of Hoffman Estates, was charged with DUI in the 200 block of E. Butterfield at 1:45 a.m.

Jan. 12

Sarah A. Brant, 47, of Villa Park, was issued a citation for possession of liquor in public at a store in the 900 block of S. York at 11:27 p.m. Police said a complainant reported the suspect entered the business with open alcohol and was causing a disturbance.

Antonio Contreras, 23, of Addison, was charged with DUI, improper lane usage, driving on the wrong side of the road, and illegal transportation of alcohol after a traffic stop near Grand and York at 3:42 a.m.

Obadiahn Leon, 41, of Chicago, was charged with DUI and improper lane usage subsequent to a traffic stop near North and Berteau at 3 a.m.

Jan. 10

Petrona Aviles Ovalle, 26, of Crystal Lake, was charged with DUI, leaving the scene of an accident, driving while license suspended and no insurance in the 100 block of S. Route 83 at 4:27 p.m.

Harassment, threats

Jan. 11

A complainant in the 700 block of N. Geneva reported at 11:16 p.m. receiving multiple threatening messages from the suspect and wanted the incident documented as a matter of record.

Home invasion

Jan. 12

Hekmat Nekzad, 39, of Elmhurst, was charged with felony home invasion in the 1-100 block of Elm Creek at 10:17 p.m. Police said Nekzad was determined to be intoxicated and armed with a butcher knife. According to police, the suspect had forced entry to the victim’s apartment and the victim was able to disarm him of the knife.

Identity theft, fraud

According to information provided by the Elmhurst Police Department, police reported four incidents of identity theft or fraud.

Possession of cannabis in a vehicle

According to information provided by the Elmhurst Police Department, police reported one incident of possession of cannabis by either the driver of a vehicle or a passenger: Yadhira Gutierrez, 23, of Addison, near North and West at 9:31 p.m. Jan. 13;

Possession of a controlled substance

Jan. 11

Billy Valentin, 67, of Joliet, was charged with possession of a weapon by a felon, aggravated unlawful possession of a weapon without a FOID card, aggravated possession of a weapon without a CCL, aggravated use of a weapon combination of no FOID/No CCL (non-probational), unlawful possession of a controlled substance, DUI-drugs and improper lane usage subsequent to a traffic stop near

North and I-290 at 12:58 a.m. Police said that after further investigation, it was determined the suspect unlawfully possessed a pistol with a defaced serial number, and was in possession of a controlled substance.

Suspicious incident

Jan. 14

A complainant in the 100 block of N. Addison reported an unknown male entered a vehicle, took a bag, and left in his own vehicle. A reporting officer contacted the registered owner of the victim’s vehicle. Nothing appeared to be missing from the vehicle.

Nov. 1, 2024-Jan. 10

A complainant in the 400 block of S. Cottage Hill reported receiving multiple packages at her address under different aliases. The complainant wanted the incident documented as a matter of record.

Dec. 24

A complainant at a bank in the 300 block of W. Butterfield found multiple emptied shipping boxes at the above address. The victim advised the reporting officer he is not missing any packages.

Theft, burglary, attempted theft or burglary, forgery, deceptive practice, obstruction, robbery

Jan. 15

A complainant told police he left his backpack in a Lyft car after being dropped off at an auto dealership in the 400 block of W. Lake. The complainant contacted the Lyft driver who related his next customer had taken the backpack.

Dec. 17, 2024-Jan. 15

A complainant at Elmhurst University told police that a campus safety trainee left during his shift and never returned to work. The trainee is currently in possession of equipment that belongs to Elmhurst University and has not returned phone calls.

Jan. 14

Quantez L. Jennings, 20, of Willowbrook; Cory D. Mondy, 21, of Chicago; and Brandon M. Sounhein, 24, of Sugar Grove, were charged with felony retail theft at a store in the 900 block of S. York at 10:24 p.m. Police said the suspects were found to have stolen 25 bottles of alcohol from the store.

Jan. 13

A complainant at a school in the 900 block of S. Riverside reported a co-worker had taken money out of his backpack while he was at work.

Jan. 12

A complainant at a store in the 300 block of S. Route 83 told police while reviewing video footage, an unknown suspect was observed concealing merchandise and leaving the store.

Sept. 30, 2024-Jan. 11

A complainant at a car center in the 200 block of W. Grand told police that the business is missing a dealer license plate and have received several automated speeding tickets from the city of Chicago. The license plate was entered into LEADS.

Jan. 10

A victim at a car outlet in the 100 block of N. Route 83 told police his envelope with cash was stolen at the above location.

Jan. 9

Mary C. Srabian, 31, of Naperville, was charged with retail theft and disorderly conduct at a hardware store in the 1000 block of S. York.

Nov. 11, 2024

A victim at a store in the 300 block of Route 83 provided two credit cards to two unknown suspects collecting donations. She later discovered multiple fraudulent charges.

Violation of pre-trial release

Jan. 11

Julio C. Bravo, 50, of Willowbrook, was charged with violation of pre-trial release in the 100 block of W. Diversey at 11:06 p.m. According to police, a victim related the suspect was trying to contact her and in violation of his pre-trial release.

Warrant arrest

Jan. 13

Police said Christopher Dwyer, 38, of Elmhurst, was found to have a valid failure to appear warrant out of the DuPage County Sheriff’s Office for assault.

Police said Sidiyaya Kebe, 21, of Maywood, turned himself in on a valid failure to appear warrant out of the Douglas County Sheriff’s Office in the 100 block of E. First at 3:24 p.m.

Jan. 12

Police said that subsequent to a traffic stop in the 700 block of W. Lake at 2:48 a.m., the driver, Romicia L. Jackson, 30, of Addison was found to have a valid failure to appear warrant out of DuPage County. Jackson also was issued citations for operating a motor vehicle with suspended registration.

Jury finds Glendale Heights man guilty of murder

DuPage County State’s Attorney Robert Berlin announced last week that a jury found Richard Goodwin, 59, formerly of Glendale Heights, guilty of the 2021 murder of Hanover Park resident Marek Krywko. The jury returned its verdict on Friday, Jan. 17, after deliberating for approximately 16 hours following a four-day-long trial. In all, the jury found Goodwin guilty of one count of first-degree murder and one count of aggravated battery.

On Aug. 31, 2021, Goodwin appeared in bond court, where his bond was set at $500,000 full cash, in accordance with a previously issued arrest warrant. He has remained in custody at the DuPage County Jail since that time.

On Aug. 2, 2021, at approximately 7:47 p.m., Hanover Park police officers responded to a residence on Pebblebeach Drive after receiving a report of a gunshot victim. As officers responded to the scene, a second call came for another gunshot victim, later identified as Marek Krywko, at the same location.

Upon their arrival, officers located the initial victim outside the residence with a gunshot wound to her left thigh. Inside the residence, officers found Marek Krywko with a gunshot wound to his left thigh striking his femoral artery. First aid was administered to both victims, but Krywko remained unresponsive and was transported to a local hospital for medical attention. He was pronounced deceased a short time later.

Following an investigation, authorities learned that Goodwin and two females were

Convicted felon sentenced to 18 years for unlawful possession of a weapon/unlawful restraint

DuPage County State’s Attorney

Timothy Jackson

Robert Berlin announced last week that a Villa Park convicted felon has been sentenced to 18 years in the Illinois Department of Corrections following convictions for aggravated unlawful restraint and weapons charges in two unrelated cases.

Timothy Jackson, 32, appeared at his sentencing hearing in front of Judge Margaret O’Connell, who

handed down the sentence.

On Jan. 8, 2020, Jackson, a convicted felon, was charged with possessing a loaded Smith & Wesson M&P9 Shield 9mm semi-automatic pistol while at a 7-Eleven convenience store in Wheaton. Jackson’s bond was set at $75,000 with 10 percent to apply.

On Feb. 24, 2020, Jackson posted the necessary 10 percent, or $7,500, and was released from custody. On Oct. 22, 2021, Wheaton police officers responded to the 700 block of W. Childs St. for a reported home invasion.

Through the course of their investigation, it was learned that at ap-

proximately 9:15 a.m., Jackson, who was out on bond at the time, entered the residence of the victim, his former girlfriend, and held her against her will by pointing a gun at her and threatening to kill her.

Jackson fled before police arrived. Police further learned that at the time, Jackson was staying at a residence in Wheeling. On Dec. 17, 2021, Jackson was observed leaving the residence in a vehicle. As the vehicle was parked in a gas station parking lot, Wheaton detectives made contact with Jackson, who attempted to flee but was taken into custody after a brief foot chase.

On Dec. 11, 2024, following a day-

long bench trial, Judge O’Connell found Jackson guilty of two counts of unlawful possession of a weapon by a felon, a Class 3 felony in the 2020 case at the Wheaton 7-Eleven.

On July 26, 2024, following a threeday-long trial, a jury found Jackson guilty of one count of aggravated unlawful restraint (Class 3 felony) and two counts of unlawful possession of a weapon by a felon (Class 2 felony) on the Childs Street case.

“Mr. Jackson is a convicted felon and as such has forfeited his right to ever legally possess a firearm,” Berlin said. “The fact that Mr. Jackson continued to illegally possess a weapon,

even while out on bond for unlawful possession of a weapon, demonstrates his complete lack of respect for the rule of law.

“To make matters worse, Mr. Jackson used his illegally possessed gun to hold his former girlfriend against her will. Judge O’Connell’s sentence today sends a strong message that in DuPage County we respect the rule of law and will not tolerate those who choose to ignore it.”

Judge O’Connell sentenced Jackson to eight years on the 7-Eleven case and to 10 years on the Childs Street case. The sentences will run consecutively.

Court grants state’s motion to detain pre-trial Lombard man charged with murdering his wife

DuPage County State’s Attorney

Robert Berlin and Lombard Chief of Police Tom Wirsing announced on Saturday, Jan. 18, that Judge Kishori Tank granted the state’s motion to detain pre-trial a Lombard man charged with first-degree murder in the shooting death of his wife, 80-year-old Helen Witter.

Charles Witter, 81, of the 500 block of North Clarendon Avenue, appeared in court on Saturday morning and was charged with two counts of first-degree murder.

On Friday, Jan. 17, at approximately 12:38 a.m., emergency 911 received a phone call from a male, later identified as Witter, requesting police assistance as he had allegedly shot his wife.

When officers arrived, Witter met them at the front door and was immediately taken into custody.

When searching the house, officers found Helen Witter, unconscious, lying on her back with her head on a pillow and her mouth open.

There was a significant injury to the right side of Helen’s head, and blood was coming from her head onto the pillow and bedding. She was immediately transported to a local hospital where, at approximately 1:17 a.m., she was pronounced deceased.

Following an investigation into the murder, it is alleged that Witter and his wife were in bed when an argument ensued.

It is further alleged that during the argument, Charles retrieved a gun from a drawer in his nightstand and shot Helen once.

It is alleged that after the shoot -

• Murder

(Continued from page 6)

at the residence to purchase marijuana from Krywko. The investigation further found that when the female victim gave Goodwin a bottle of water, he shot her. Goodwin then shot Krywko before fleeing the scene with the two females. He was taken into custody on Aug. 25, 2021, from his home without incident.

Goodwin’s next court appearance is scheduled for March 4, for post-trial motions and return of the pre-sentence report.

ing, Witter called 911.

“The alleged shooting death of Helen Witter is indeed a tragedy,” Berlin said.

“I extend my sincere condolences to the entire Witter family and their friends as they cope with this heartbreaking loss. I thank the

Lombard Police Department for their work on this very sad case as well as Assistant State’s Attorneys Matthew Dambach and Grace Bar-

santi for their efforts.” Witter’s next court appearance is scheduled for Feb. 10, in front of Judge Mia McPherson.

First of two cousins charged with armed robbery of Lisle Verizon store sentenced to 22 years

DuPage County State’s Attorney Robert Berlin announced last week that an Aurora man facing a sentence of between 21 to 45 years in the Illinois Department of Corrections (IDOC) for robbing a Lisle Verizon store at gunpoint of duffel bags of cell phones and other electronics, has been sentenced to 22 years in the IDOC.

At a Jan. 16 sentencing hearing in front of Judge Brian Telander, the state had asked for the maximum penalty of 45 years for Aaron Thompson, 29. Thompson and his cousin, co-defendant, Ezekiel

Thompson, 29, formerly of Aurora, both appeared in court on Feb. 3, 2020, where the court ordered they both be held without bond.

On Sept. 30, 2024, Aaron Thompson entered a blind plea of guilty to one count of armed robbery with a firearm, a Class X felony punishable by a sentence of between 21 to 45 years. As of last week, the case against Ezekiel Thompson was pending. It is alleged that at approximately 6:48 p.m. on Feb. 1, 2020, Aaron Thompson and Ezekiel Thompson, armed and wearing hoods and masks

over their faces, entered the Verizon store located at 1104 Ogden Avenue in Lisle. It is alleged that once inside the store, Ezekiel Thompson pointed a gun at the lone store employee and ordered him to the back of the store, where he was ordered to open a vault containing cellular telephones. It is further alleged that at gunpoint, the two men ordered the store employee, who at one time begged the defendants not to kill him, to fill a duffel bag with cellular telephones and other electronics. It is alleged that after the employee complied, the men bound the

employee’s arms and legs with zip ties, stole his wallet and car keys and took the duffel bag with them as they fled the scene in the employee’s car, which they stole from the parking lot.

An investigation into the matter led by the Lisle Police Department, with assistance from the Woodridge, Downers Grove and Darien police departments, led to the men, who were allegedly located in the parking lot of an apartment complex in Woodridge. It is alleged that at that time the men abandoned their vehicle and fled on foot. They were both taken into custody after a brief foot chase.

Viewpoint

Slices

of life

Losing, and finding, yourself

I read something on grief the other day that struck a chord. The person writing lamented the fact that losing your spouse causes you to lose not only the person dearest to you, but in the aftermath you also lose most of your friends as well. I can personally attest to this. And that is not pointing any fingers in any direction. It is simply a statement of truth, without any anger or ill will. But it is puzzling.

I’ve thought about this a lot. I don’t blame people for leaving me— or me leaving them. I don’t blame myself. I blame grief.

But still, why? How?

At first—which is a long time actually—I think the pain of a person in deep, deep grief is palpable to others. It isn’t something you can touch or see, but it is there. And I believe it may be repelling.

People want to reach out to you— to be there for you. And they are and they do. But it is hard. The pain you feel is somehow thrown out into the universe, like a bad perfume and anyone around you smells it and try as they might they only want to escape its wrath.

For you, the person in the center of the vortex of the wrath, there is no escaping. You also aren’t aware of the aura of pain you are emanating, because you are in the very eye of the storm.

But it continues, this grief vortex.

People you used to know, those who you used to be close to, try— some of them try very hard. But it isn’t to be. One by one, reason by reason, they exit your life. And that is truly okay. It is regrettable. But there is no blame in grief. Only sadness.

As friends leave, you attempt to meet others. New friends. But that is difficult. Many start strong, but they leave, too, just as the old friends did, and you realize, with remorse, that grief continues to surround you in a cloud of anguish that is overwhelming to those who haven’t experienced it firsthand.

This is okay. Because grief isn’t

By JILL PERTLER Columnist

ready for you to begin life anew. The cloak of sorrow is a deterrent, but it is a protection as well. Because through this all, grief is transforming you. This transformation is both terrifying and wonderful at the same time.

Because grief—deep, deep grief that cuts you to the core—causes you to lose your very self.

The person you thought you were, the person you’d planned to be all along is gone and in her place there is someone new. You have to learn to be this new person.

She isn’t bad. In fact, lots of things about her are quite good. But she is different in ways you never thought you’d be, because she has gone through a pain you thought you’d never have to endure.

And that pain changes you fundamentally—to the core.

And, as you learn to smile—from the heart, with joy—again, you realize that the initial and longlasting pain of grief probably caused some people to leave, and others to not get to know you at all, because the hurt was just too rough and sharp and painful, not just for you but for anyone near to you.

But as you heal, slowly, gradually, you find people gravitating toward you again. And you realize you have changed fundamentally—for a second time, and this time the change is invited. It is welcomed.

It’s a new you. And she is smiling, from the inside out.

Jill Pertler is an award-winning syndicated columnist, published playwright and author. Don’t miss a slice; follow the Slices of Life page on Facebook.

We want to print your news!

What’s new with you and your grad?

Special awards and recognition, Dean’s list, graduations, scholarships, further education at graduate or professional schools... send your college news to independent@rvpublishing.com or FAX to (630)834-0900

Taking the oath of office and the beginning of the 119th Congress

By U.S. Rep. Raja Krishnamoorthi

The 119th Congress has officially began, and I was sworn in to start my fifth term as your representative in Washington, D.C.

It is the honor of my life to serve in Congress, and I’m excited about the new opportunities ahead.

The American people elected this Congress to get things done, and that is what we will do. I am committed to working with colleagues from both parties to, among other things, lower prescription drug costs, increase funding for career and technical education (CTE), and protect access to reproductive health care.

Representing you in Washington and Congress is the responsibility of a lifetime, and I strive to continue to tackle the issues that matter most to our communities.

Certifying

the Electoral College votes and remembering Jan. 6, 2021

On Monday, Jan. 6, the House and Senate voted to certify the 2024 Electoral College, paving the way for a peaceful transfer of power from President Joe Biden to President-elect Donald Trump.

As I joined my colleagues in the House chamber, I could not help but think of the events of Jan. 6, 2021, when the U.S. Capitol was ransacked

in an attempt to disrupt our country’s peaceful transfer of power.

That dark day in American history will live on in infamy. I am grateful that this time there was no violence, and the longstanding tradition of a peaceful transition from one party to the other resumed.

Remembering President Jimmy Carter

I attended the ceremony in the U.S. Capitol honoring former President Jimmy Carter. As much as for his service as a U.S. Naval Officer, governor, and president, Jimmy Carter will be remembered as one of our most successful former presidents, volunteering and working with organizations such as Habitat for Humanity while co-founding the Carter Center and advancing public health and combating poverty in the United States and around the world.

President Carter’s legacy of public service was an inspiration during his own lifetime and will continue to be long after.

An inquiry into illicit vapes and addressing the youth vaping crisis

I recently joined Cook County Sheriff Tom Dart and other elected officials at Lurie Children’s Hospital in Chicago to speak on combating youth vaping and to announce a new inquiry into illicit vaping products imported from the People’s Republic of China (PRC). These illegally smuggled products,

often marketed to young people through targeted advertising and kidfriendly flavors, threaten our children with nicotine addiction.

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has only authorized 34 flavored e-cigarettes, but the vast majority have not been approved through a safety review and are still illegal. During my press conference with Sheriff Dart, I made it clear that our kids are not for sale.

I am deeply concerned about the large number of illegal vaping products entering the U.S., often disguised as USB drives or other items. With the PRC producing approximately 95 percent of global vaping products, including the popular Elf Bar, it is crucial to address both the smuggling of these products and their presence on store shelves.

The FDA must act to remove these illegal, highly addictive products, which are being deliberately marketed to children, from stores across Illinois and the country. Since initiating the first Congressional investigation into the youth vaping epidemic in 2019 and co-founding the Bipartisan Congressional Caucus to End the Youth Vaping Epidemic, I have remained committed to stopping the illegal practices and predatory tactics of Big Tobacco and their partners overseas.The fight must go on.

Raja Krishnamoorthi represents the 8th Congressional District of Illinois, which includes part of Addison, Wood Dale and Bensenville.

GreenMan Theatre selects topic, deadlines for this year’s ‘8 to the Bar’ play festival

GreenMan Theatre Troupe has announced “Moving On” as the topic for its fifth annual play festival of eight 10-minute plays–“8 to the Bar”–to be performed July 18-20, at Mystic Vines in Villa Park.

“Each play submitted needs to focus on ‘Moving On,’ for the character or characters to be moving on to a different future–in relationships, in employment, in life in general,” said Craig Gustafson, the play festival’s project coordinator and member of GreenMan Theatre’s play reading committee.

The 10-minute play format can be a challenging one, Gustafson said. “A 10-minute play teaches playwrights how to get their point across in eight pages and develops discipline,” he stated. “But if your play is selected as one of our eight finalists, it can get your foot in the door and be a steppingstone for more ambitious projects.”

For 2025’s “8 to the Bar,” a maximum of 120 submissions will be accepted from playwrights worldwide. Playwrights may submit one play at forms.gle/hAL5nG7sqQgXqTjA7 from Feb. 1 through March 1 (or until the quota of 120 plays is received). Selected plays will be announced on June 1. Director submissions will be open on April 1. Playwrights may submit to direct.

Each play submitted to GreenMan Theatre must be in English, written in proper stage play format, limited to eight pages, feature no more than six actors and have a simple set and props. For a complete list of “Play Submission Guidelines,” go to www. greenmantheatre.org, select Productions, then 8 to the Bar 2025. There is no reading fee for submissions.

Audience voting during the show’s run will determine first-, second- and third-place cash prizes for selected plays.

Registration is open for Citizens Police Academy

Registration is now open for the Elmhurst Police Department’s spring Citizens Police Academy.

The Citizens Police Academy will meet from 6:30 to 9:30 p.m. on Wednesday evenings from March 5 to May 21.

The program is offered free of charge and is limited to 25 students per session.

Participants will learn the ins and outs of the police department. The 12 evening sessions will cover several topics, including crime scene analysis, traffic stops, the K9 unit, interviewing and interrogation, and more.

The Citizens Police Academy provides an opportunity for citizens who live or work in Elmhurst to become acquainted with how the police department operates on a day-to-day basis. At the end of the program, participants will have a better understanding of police procedures, equipment, responsibilities, demands, and the laws governing the actions of police officers.

Registration closes on March 3. To register, or for more information, visit www.elmhurst.org/citizenspoliceacademy.

Worship Services Directory

St. Timothy Evangelical Lutheran Church 547

Every Week in print and online in our 5 Hometown Newspapers

For your church to take advantage of this special offer, please contact: Brenda Garcia at ads2@rvpublishing.com or 630-834-4450

For Lombard contact Betty Jesensky at bjesensky@rvpublishing.com or 630-834-8244

Lent and Easter Services at 7 p.m.

Sunday Worship at 10:15 am Sunday School & Bible Study 9 am

“The Crucial Hours”

Ladies Bible Fellowship Mondays at 6:30 pm

Second Lenten Service March 9, 2022

Wednesday Service at 7pm

Adult Bible Study Wednesdays after Service

Saturday, January 25, Game Night at 4 pm

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 March 16, 2022

Rev. Paul Spaude “What to Remember When Your are St. Matthews, Niles Seized with Remorse” Matthew 27:3-4

All services are live streamed. Watch on our website or on Facebook. sainttimothy.org

Fourth Lenten Service March 23, 2022

Rev. Jonathan Bergemann “I Will Keep the Passover”

779 S. York Street Elmhurst, IL 630-834 -6700 www.visitationparish.org

Weekend Masses: Saturday: 4 PM (Vigil) Sunday: 7:30, 9:30 & 11:30 AM and 6 PM

Daily Masses: Monday—Friday: 6:15 and 8:15 AM Saturday: 8:15 AM

Confessions: Saturday: 3-3:45PM

Adoration:

Available in Our Lady Mother of the Eucharist Chapel 24/7

Business

Jan. 23, 2025 •10

District 205 Board meeting summary

By Chris Fox ELMHURST INDEPENDENT

The Elmhurst Community Unit School District 205 Board held its first regular meeting of 2025 on Jan. 14 at the District 205 Center, 162 S. York St.

One board member—Courtenae Trautmann—was absent from the meeting.

There were no public comments during the meeting.

Board honors middle-school musicians who were selected to take part in ILMEA District 1 Junior Festivals

The meeting’s spotlight and recognition segment noted the achievements of the district’s middle-school students who were recently selected to participate in the Illinois Music Education Association (ILMEA) District 1 Junior Festivals.

Patrick Baker, the district’s director of arts, physical education and health, stated that the honored students prepared for and completed an audition to be accepted into one of the highly selective junior festival ensembles.

Presentation about Lincoln Elementary School’s maker space

The spotlight and recognition segment of the Jan. 14 board meeting included a brief presentation about the maker space at Lincoln Elementary School. Principal Kalissa Smith and assistant principal Maureen Schroeder gave the presentation, which described the school’s maker space as a hub for fostering creativity, critical thinking and design skills. The maker space, which includes 3D printing technology, engages students during the school day. It also gives students a place to pursue projects during after-school hours.

Abatement options presented

The Jan. 14 meeting included a presentation from Elizabeth Hennessy, a managing director at Raymond James, about abatement options for the board to consider regarding a 2024 tax abatement resolution. The abatement for the 2024 tax levy would be a one-time reduction in the amount of property taxes billed to taxpayers for only this tax levy. The decision to approve a resolution can be done each year by March. Hennessy, who advises the district, said the board has a deadline of Feb. 28, 2025, to approve a debt service abatement resolution for the 2024 tax levy.

Hennessy presented a few options for the board as it considers a debt service abatement resolution for the 2024 tax levy. If the board does not approve any abatement, a district homeowner of a home with a mar-

Christopher Whelton is resigning from his position as District 205’s assistant superintendent for finance and operations. At the end of a special District 205 Board meeting on Jan. 16, board president Athena Arvanitis announced that the board would vote to approve a resignation agreement with Whelton, who has been with the district since 2011. Arvanitis said that Whelton’s resignation is effective March 1. Arvanitis added that Whelton will continue to receive salary-based compensation through April 30, and his health insurance with the district will continue through June 30. Arvanitis stated during the Jan. 16 special board meeting that Whelton had already signed the agreement.

ket value of $500,000 could expect their District 205 related portion of property taxes to be about $200 more than the previous year. If the board approves an abatement of about $525,000, that same homeowner’s district-related portion of property taxes would be about $175 more than the previous year.

Board members did not ask Hennessy any questions after she completed her presentation.

District plans its 2025 summer offerings

The meeting included an overview of the district’s programs for the summer of 2025. Patrick Baker, who spoke earlier in the meeting, addressed the board again during the presentation about upcoming summer programs. Baker stated that the district offers robust summer programming that includes instruction in academics, athletics and fine arts. Baker said there were more than 3,800 enrollments in the district’s 2024 summer programs.

Baker noted that the district’s summer programs have an updated fee structure, which will be in place through the summer of 2027. He said summer school courses for York High School students will have a base cost of $255, plus any appli-

cable lab fees. Courses for students in grades 6-8 will have a base cost between $180 and $380. All acceleration and exploratory courses for K-5 students will have a fee of $300.

The district will set aside some funds to provide scholarships to pay for summer school courses for certain families with a financial hardship.

Baker said that the district is currently working to finalize its course offerings, and will soon provide more information to the public about schedules and registration. The first day of this year’s summer programs in District 205 will be June 2.

Board approves five-year contracts with its two busing providers

Board members voted unanimously (6-0) during the Jan. 14 meeting to approve separate five-year contracts with the district’s two busing providers—First Student and Cottage Hill. First Student provides the district’s busing for general education. Cottage Hill provides the district’s busing services for special education.

The board approved a contract with First Student that begins in the 2025-26 school year and runs through the 2029-30 school year. The contract features an increase of 6.15 percent (over the current 202425 school year) in the first year of the new contract (2025-26), followed by 5-percent increases in each of the following four years.

The board approved a similar five-year agreement with Cottage Hill that covers the same time period. That agreement also includes a 6.15-percent increase (over 2024-25) in the first year, followed by 5-percent increases in each of the following four years.

The new contracts with the two busing providers will reportedly help First Student and Cottage Hill upgrade their bus fleets over the next five years while continuing to provide high-quality service.

A presentation during the board’s meeting on Dec. 17, 2024, noted that the district is projecting payments of over $4.6 million to First Student for the current 2024-25 school year. That same presentation related that the district is projecting payments of more than $1.58 million to Cottage Hill for the current school year.

District to hold its Kindergarten

Family Information Night event on Jan. 28

District 205 Superintendent Keisha Campbell mentioned near the end of the Jan. 14 meeting that the district will hold its Kindergarten Family Information Night on Tuesday, Jan. 28. The event, which will provide information about the district’s

kindergarten enrollment process, will take place from 6-7:30 p.m. in the auditorium at York High School. There will be presentations from district administrators, as well as from parent organizations.

District searches for a new principal for Edison Elementary School; James Pluskota is retiring at the end of the current school year

The district also noted during the meeting that the search for the next principal at Edison Elementary School is in progress. The district is reviewing applications and screening candidates, and will conduct more in-depth rounds of interviews in the coming weeks. The district hopes to recommend a candidate to the board at the board’s next regular meeting. Edison’s next principal will succeed the school’s current principal— James Pluskota—who is retiring at the end of the current 2024-25 school year.

The board will hold its next regular meeting on Tuesday, Feb. 25.

Board announces Whelton’s resignation at its special meeting on Jan. 16

Two days after its regular meeting, the board held a special meeting on Thursday, Jan. 16. Six board members attended that meeting. One board member—Jim Collins—was absent. There were no public comments during the meeting.

After board members emerged from closed session, board president Athena Arvanitis stated that the board would vote for approval of a resignation agreement with Christopher Whelton—the district’s assistant superintendent for finance and operations.

Board members voted unanimously (6-0) to approve the resignation agreement.

Arvanitis read a statement relating that the agreement with Whelton provides for his resignation, effective March 1. He will continue to receive salary-based compensation through April 30, and his health insurance with the district will continue through June 30.

Arvanitis said during the Jan. 16 special meeting that Whelton had already signed the agreement.

Arvanitis noted that Whelton began his employment with the district in 2011.

“We are thankful for his many contributions to the district’s ability to consistently meet its educational and operational objectives, and we wish him well in his future endeavors,” Arvanitis said.

Before voting to approve the district’s resignation agreement with Whelton, Trautmann read a prepared statement. In that statement, she de-

scribed Whelton as the district’s most senior cabinet member.

In the video of the Jan. 16 special meeting, available on the district’s YouTube channel, there were edits in the statements from both Arvanitis and Trautmann. Neither edit could have been lengthy, as the board only spent about five minutes in open session, from 4:31 to 4:36 p.m.

“I didn’t want this day to pass without me taking a second to show my appreciation for everything Mr. Whelton has done at his time at District 205,” said Trautmann during her statement. “When Mr. Whelton was hired in 2011, as a district, our finances were in a very challenging position. We were making budget cuts, including laying off staff, and our facilities were falling apart. In the time that he has been here, we have done a complete 180.”

Trautmann added that she has worked with Whelton for “the better part of a decade.” That period has included the last six years in which Trautmann has served on the board.

“Mr. Whelton’s decision making has always kept in mind what’s best for our students, and what’s best for our taxpayer dollars,” Trautmann said.

“So as we move on to vote, I just wanted to take a second to thank Mr. Whelton for his service to 205, and for being an incredibly instrumental part of getting us to where we are now.” Board members did not speak during the special meeting about why Whelton was resigning. His resignation could be related to his supervision, or lack of supervision, of Todd Schmidt, who had been the district’s director of facilities. On Dec. 9, 2024, Schmidt submitted his resignation to the district.

Schmidt, who worked with the district for more than six years, resigned shortly after he was arrested in Rockford and accused of defrauding his own mother of more than $100,000. Schmidt and his wife allegedly used his mother’s name to obtain loans and set up credit card accounts. Schmidt reportedly also used his mother’s credit card account for his own personal expenses, without her permission.

At a special board meeting on Dec. 10, 2024, Arvanitis stated that the district immediately engaged in an internal investigation after charges were filed against Schmidt in Rockford. Arvanitis added that the board would “review any necessary avenues of legal recourse related to Mr. Schmidt once we have completed a thorough investigation.”

At the board’s regular meeting on Nov. 19, Whelton delivered a presentation about the district’s estimated 2024 tax levy. During that presentation, Whelton stated that district staff had already started to focus on the district’s 2025-26 budget. The district’s 2024-25 fiscal year ends on June 30, 2025.

SUBMITTED PHOTO Elmhurst Independent

Pritzker, Illinois Department of Revenue (IDOR) announce participation in IRS Direct File Service

Direct File provides free tax filing option for eligible Illinois residents

Gov. JB Pritzker and the Illinois Department of Revenue (IDOR) have announced that Illinois will participate in the IRS Direct File service, which begins on Monday, Jan. 27.

Nearly two million eligible Illinois taxpayers will now be able to use Direct File to electronically prepare and file their 2024 federal tax returns for free.

After filing federal taxes, the program also connects taxpayers to Illinois’ free state income tax filing system, MyTax Illinois, where they can file and complete their Illinois state returns. Direct File enables working families to prepare and file taxes elec-

Obituary

KIM K. EBELING, 69

Kim K. Ebeling, a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, sister, and friend, passed away peacefully on January 3, 2025, at the age of 69, surrounded by her loving family.

Born in Villa Park, Illinois, to Frank and Thora Rogers, Kim was the third of four siblings and grew up in a close-knit household. She attended St. Alexander’s Catholic School and Willowbrook High School before continuing her education at Elmhurst College. Following her studies, Kim became a teacher before ultimately devoting herself to raising her family. She remained a proud Villa Park resident throughout her life, deeply rooted in the community she loved. Kim’s family was the center of her world. She is survived by her husband of 43 years, Henry “Hank” Ebeling III; her three children, Henry (Pamela) Ebeling IV, Hayley Ebeling, and Ryan (Natalie) Ebeling; and her grandchildren, Conrad, Alexander, and Odette-all who lovingly called her Grandma or Mimi. She is also survived by her father, Frank Rogers Jr.; her siblings, Debra Green (Michael Spilotro), Lynn Rogers, and Frank “Skip” Rogers; as well as a large circle of nieces, nephews, great-nieces, and great-nephews. She is predeceased by her mother, Thora Rogers, and her grandson, Henry Ebeling V.

Kim will be remembered for her radiant beauty, keen intellect, and unwavering optimism. Her positive spirit uplifted everyone around her, while her contagious laugh and uniquely joyful voice filled every room she entered. She had a remarkable gift for turning ordinary gatherings into treasured moments, always keeping her door open to loved ones.

Kim’s love for family activities was evident in everything she did. She and her husband built a cherished routine at their son Hank’s gym, H4 Training, fostering a closeknit community focused on fitness, friendship, and plenty of laughter. She adored the holidays, especially Christmas, delighting in every detail-from meticulously hand-wrapping each present (even a single stick of gum in the stockings) to indulging in her favorite holiday movie, Holiday in Handcuffs.

Though deeply rooted in Villa Park, Kim’s adventurous spirit

tronically on their own for free using one streamlined platform and avoid paying costly fees to tax preparation companies.

“As we approach tax season, it is crucial that Illinoisans and their families have the resources needed to file their 2024 federal tax returns,” said Pritzker. “With our state’s participation in the new Direct File program, approximately two million people will be eligible for free, electronic tax filing in 2025. This critical resource will no doubt put money typically spent on tax preparation services back into the pockets of hardworking families across Illinois.”

Direct File was initially launched as a test program in 2024. Following a successful pilot, the service has become a permanent option with participation from 25 states. The IRS estimates that over 30 million taxpayers will be eligible for Direct File during the 2025 tax filing season.

“Connecting MyTax Illinois with the IRS Direct File option will simplify the filing process and offer eligible

taxpayers an efficient way to electronically file both their federal and state income tax returns at no cost,” said IDOR Director David Harris. “We understand that a significant amount of time and money is spent every year to ensure personal income tax returns are filed accurately and on time. This integration will help relieve stress and financial burden for taxpayers.”

shone through in her love of travel. She shared her love of Disney with her family through many trips, frequently visited her son Ryan in San Francisco, enjoyed beachside getaways with her daughter Hayley, and savored poolside service at her most beloved resorts.

A lover of life’s simpler moments, Kim savored her black coffee each morning at Dunkin’ Donuts. In the summer, she looked forward to local coffee shop runs with Hank and friends, sitting outdoors to bask in the sunshine. Her sense of humor was a defining part of her character-she laughed wholeheartedly at slapstick comedies such as Schitt’s Creek, and never missed a chance to tune into her favorite HGTV shows.

An avid shopper, Kim delighted in exploring Oak Brook Mall-browsing Nordstrom or enjoying a meal at Antico Posto-and could often be found at Target.

She passed her passion for fashion on to her daughter, Hayley, and reveled in accessories-especially handbags, sunglasses, and shoes. Self-care was equally important to Kim; she indulged in manicures and spa days at Mario Tricoci and always savored a perfectly prepared iced teawith extra ice.

Kim’s caring nature extended to her kitchen, where she frequently baked pineapple upside-down cakes for her father while always preparing warm chocolate chip cookies, fresh Rice Krispie treats, and brownies with powdered sugar. These sweet creations were emblematic of the generous love she so freely shared with others.

In her passing, Kim is in the good company of her mother, Thora; her grandfather, Louis; her mother-inlaw, Ceil; her grandson, Henry V; and her beloved Maltese, Lacey-together in everlasting peace.

Services were held at St. Alexander’s Church, 300 S. Cornell Ave, Villa Park, IL.

The family entrusted Steuerle Chapel in Villa Park with the care of arrangements.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made to the Jackson Chance Foundation, a cause close to the Ebeling family’s hearts, or to a breast cancer organization of your choosing. For info: 630-832-4161.

Direct File is an online service that is accessible on mobile phones, laptops, tablets, or desktop computers. Users will have access to a chatbot for guidance in both English and Spanish. It simplifies tax filing by providing a checklist and a guide to help navigate the process.

To check eligibility and to use the service, Illinoisans can visit https:// www.irs.gov/filing/irs-direct-file-forfree

Excellent location, overlooking scenic Redmond Park Retention Pond & Recreational Complex, steps away from The Edge Ice Arena & Aquatic Center; within one mile of White Pines Golf Club, downtown Bensenville, commuter train station, and more! Vacant Residential Land - Four Lots28,800' square feet, more than half an acre with the following dimensions: wide 200 feet by 144 feet deep, four distinct PINs 03-24-202-006, 007, 008 & 009. The seller would consider selling individual lots. Immediate access to O'Hare Airport, 290, 294, and 88 expressways. Metra train to Downtown Chicago in 20 minutes.

2024 SUCCESS STORIES

Giannoulias and AARP Illinois push to reform driving laws

Secretary of State Alexi Giannoulias has drafted bipartisan legislation in collaboration with AARP Illinois to increase the age at which Illinois drivers must take a behind-the-wheel driving test from 79 to 87 while implementing new procedures to allow immediate relatives to report unsafe drivers.

Illinois is currently the only state in the nation that requires a behind-the-wheel driving test for seniors based on age. In addition, Illinois is one of only five states that do not allow

DuPage

immediate family members to report concerns about a relative’s driving ability.

Latest statistics from the Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) reveal that in 2023, the crash rate for drivers 75 and older is 24.61 per 1,000 drivers, which is lower than every age range of drivers between 16 and 74 years old.

“As Secretary of State, my top priority is ensuring that Illinois roads are safe,” Giannoulias said. “Seniors are among the safest drivers of

County Recorder of Deeds eliminates fee for removing racist restrictive covenants from deeds

Will have legislation filed to remove the optional fee from state law

DuPage County Recorder of Deeds Elizabeth Chaplin responded to recent resident feedback by eliminating another fee in the, this time removing an unnecessary and demeaning fee for redacting restrictive racial covenant language from the public record.

“I went to visit the Recorder’s Office to find out about the process to remove racist language from an earlier deed to my own home, and was taken aback that the office had been charging a fee for this,” said Eddie Bedford, of Naperville. “To my surprise, Recorder Chaplin called me back the next day to tell me that she was personally eliminating the fee. I am so grateful for her action on this.”

Restrictive racial covenants were used in the 20th century to prevent white homeowners from selling their homes to racial, ethnic and religious minority groups. Though unenforceable and illegal, the racist language is still present on documents from many decades ago.

In recent years, the State Legislature had created a process for residents to request redaction of offensive covenants.

Chaplin has requested state legislation to be drafted and filed to remove the optional $10 fee entirely from the law.

“Removing this offensive language is a public service that I am honored to provide, and I will no longer be asking residents to pay this office] to do the right thing,” Chaplin added.

Residents who would like to learn more or find out if their neighborhood used restrictive covenants in the past are encouraged to contact the Recorder’s Office. For more information, contact Chaplin at 331-703-2992.

any age category. This measure will align Illinois senior driving standards with the rest of the nation while increasing safeguards so that Illinois maintains its status as one of the strictest states when it comes to driver safety and license renewals.”

“AARP Illinois has heard for years from our members about how the driving test requirement disproportionately affects older drivers and perpetuates false narratives about their driving abilities,” said AARP Illinois State Director Philippe Largent. “The research clearly shows that older drivers are the safest drivers on our roadways, and we believe that singling them out to take an extra test is a type of age discrimination and has to end.”

HB 1226, or the Road Safety & Fairness Act, drafted for consideration by the Illinois General Assembly during the upcoming spring session, would make Illinois consistent with other states.

Under the proposed legislation

Drivers ages 79 and 80 would still be required to visit a DMV facility if they need to renew their driver’s license and take a vision test (and a written test if a driving violation exists) but would not have to take a driving test.

Drivers between the ages of 81 and 86 would still be required to visit a DMV facility to renew their license every two years, which

is a shorter renewal period than most drivers, which is every four years. They would still be required to take a vision test (and a written test if a driving violation exists) but would not have to take a driving test.

Drivers aged 87 and older would continue to be required to renew their license annually. These renewals would include a vision test and a driving test. A written exam may be required depending on the individual’s driving record. The law governing this age group would not change under the new law.

The legislation also calls for establishing new procedures aimed at preventing unsafe motorists—regardless of age—from driving. If a motorist’s driving skills begin to significantly decline or cognitive or medical issues get in the way of safe driving, the measure enables immediate relatives to request that the Secretary of State’s office review a submitted written report.

If the report review finds that the claims are credible, the driver would be required to submit a medical reevaluation report and/or undergo retesting (written, vision and behindthe-wheel tests) to retain their license.

“Considering that seniors are among the safest drivers on our roads, the current driving test requirements are burdensome and unnec-

See AARP, Page 17

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

Recurring weekly on Monday nights

Trivia night. From 7-9 p.m. at Bottle Theory, 542 S. Spring, Monday is trivia night and you’re invited. There are seven rounds of audio, visual and live hosted trivia. You’ll get everything from Hungary to The Hunger Games, from science to sports, from the Billboard Hot 100 to Better Call Saul. It’s free to play; prizes will be awarded for answering bonus questions, and gift cards for the top teams at the end of the night. Gather up to six of your brainiest pals. Tables are first come, first serve. For more information, visit: https://bottletheorytaproom. com/

Recurring monthly

Memory care support group. Held on the first Wednesday of every month at the Adult Christian Day Center, Epiphany Church, 314 W. Vallette, Elmhurst and at St. Paul Church, 545 S. Ardmore, Villa Park, from 10:30-11:30 a.m., this is a free support group for those caring for someone with Alzheimer’s or dementia. The group alternates months between Epiphany Church and St. Paul Church. Call or text Jamie to RSVP at 312-543-5158 or email: AdultChristianCenterElmhurst@gmail.com for more information.

Friday, Jan. 24

Exhibition opening reception: Sustenance & Land: Five Artists Consider our Relationship with the Earth. From 6-9 p.m. presented by the Elmhurst Art Museum, 150 S. Cottage Hill Ave., be the first to see this group exhibition exploring human connection to the land and the many ways the earth sustains us. Early access for members is at 6 p.m.; 7 p.m. for non-member ticketed entry. RSVP is required. Price: $18 for adults, $15 for seniors, $10 for students 18-and-over with a school ID, $5 for children ages 5-17 and free for museum members and children under 5. For more information, call 630-834-0202 or email: info@elm-

hurstartmuseum.org

Sunday, Jan. 26

Lecture: “From Prairie to Tree Town: Tales of Old Elmhurst”. Starting at 2 p.m. and presented by the Elmhurst History Museum, 120 E. Park Ave., join Elmhurst History Museum Executive Director, Dave Oberg, for a fascinating discussion of Elmhurst’s early years, its growth into a modern city and the individuals who helped shape the community along the way. From early settlers to important movers and shakers, this lecture breaks down the evolution of the Elmhurst community. Price: free for members, $8 for non-members. For more information, visit: www.elmhursthistory.org

Saturday, Feb. 8

Galentine’s Market. Presented by Brewpoint Craft, 617 N. York, from 5-9 p.m. Get ready for a night of shopping and sipping at Galentine’s Market. Whether you’re out for a fun night with friends or looking to snag the perfect Valentine’s Day gift, this event has it all. Enjoy signature Valentine’s-inspired drinks while discovering unique, handmade goodies from local vendors. Free. For more information, call 630-302-3636.

Now through Feb. 28

Organic seedlings sale at First Congregational UCC. It’s never too early to start thinking about your spring garden. The First Congregational United Church of Christ’s 11th annual Organic Seedlings Sale is under way. Preorders for certified organic vegetable, herb and annual flower seedlings will be taken through Feb. 28. (NOTE THE EARLY DEADLINE.) Seedlings can be ordered by going to the church’s website: https://elmhurstucc.org/store. Seedlings will be available for pick up at the church’s Green Garden Fair from 9 a.m. to noon on Saturday, May 10. The church is located at 235 S. Kenilworth Ave. in Elmhurst.

Elmhurst History Museum Info: elmhursthistory.org.

Elmhurst Art Museum Info: 630-834-0202 or visit elmhurstartmuseum.org.

PUZZLE Page

SUDOKU

Fun by the Numbers

Like puzzles? Then you’ll love sudoku. This mind-bending puzzle will have you hooked from the moment you square off, so sharpen your pencil and put your sudoku savvy to the test! Here’s How

It Works: Sudoku puzzles are formatted as a 9x9 grid, broken down into nine 3x3 boxes. To solve a sudoku, the numbers 1 through 9 must fill each row, column and box. Each number can appear only once in each row, column and box. You can figure out the order in which the numbers will appear by using the numeric clues already provided in the boxes. The more numbers you name, the easier it gets to solve the puzzle!

CLUES ACROSS

1. “Loser” rocker

5. Partner to relaxation

9. Mixing

11. Winged nut

13. Expression of blame

15. Vast ocean

16. Comedienne Gasteyer

17. Multiply

19. Meat from a pig (French)

21. Related

22. Rocker Stewart

23. Surprise completely

25. Loon

26. Canister

27. Large, deep-bodied fish

29. Takes forcefully

31. Oil cartel

33. Palmer and Hepburn are two

34. More than one

36. Places down purposefully

38. Pitching statistic

39. Type of sword

41. Witnesses

43. Body part

44. Mixes slowly

46. Satisfy

48. Strong belief

52. One’s physique (slang)

53. More frightening

54. Soup cracker

56. Teaches

57. One who carries something

58. Actor Sean

59. Changes

CLUES DOWN

1. __ Aires, city

2. Coarse grass

3. Type of gene

4. Door handle

5. Competition

6. Muslim ruler title

7. Hunting expeditions

8. Large mollusk

9. Bind securely

10. Former U.S. presidential candidate

11. 2-point plays in football

12. Breezed through 14. Type setting

15. Felt for

18. Codified rules

20. Small dome

24. Chevrotain

26. Male reproductive gland

28. Controversial beliefs

30. Z Z Z

32. One who confines another

34. Bishop

35. Garlands

37. Bird that flies by the coast

38. Optical device

40. Greek goddess of discord

42. Some are “Rolling”

43. Formerly (archaic)

45. Thrust a knife into

47. German river

49. Atomic #26

50. Make a grotesque face

51. Primordial matter of the universe

55. Chinese philosophical principle

Answers

Sport S

York boys basketball team competes in two conference games Dukes face off against West Suburban Silver’s top squads

By Mike Miazga CORRESPONDENT

As has been the case since likely forever, the West Suburban Conference Silver Division for boys basketball once again this season is serious business. “It’s always a tough league,” York coach Mike Dunn said. “There is never an easy game. You have your work cut out for you.”

The Dukes recently squared off against two of the circuit’s top three teams in Hinsdale Central and Glenbard West. York dropped a 6651 WSC Silver game to Hinsdale Central. Ethan Iacob led the Dukes with 13 points and Connor Fitzgerald added 12 points. York made 85 defensive plays in Dunn’s defensive scoring system with Eddie Sica leading the way with 16.

“Hinsdale Central has won 14 games in a row and is playing really good basketball,” Dunn said. “They are senior dominated and probably one of the better teams we have played all season. They shot the ball extremely well. They are very difficult. We played a decent first quarter and then they started hitting shots and we got behind. Hinsdale Central is at a different level than we are.”

Dunn liked how Iacob and Fitzgerald performed against the WSC Silver-leading Red Devils. “I thought Ethan played very well,” the coach said. “He’s our sixth man and subs in for our posts. He did some really good things. Connor had a decent game as well and did some good things.”

York then dropped a 59-25 Silver

IC Catholic Prep boys basketball team moves to 18-2 on season

Knights with multiple critical games at home this week

By Mike Miazga CORRESPONDENT

The IC Catholic Prep boys basketball team piled up three more wins recently, including a key league victory against Wheaton St. Francis. The Knights started the stretch with a 64-56 Chicago Catholic League crossover win against Chicago St. Rita. St. Rita made 14 three-pointers in the game. “We were able to overcome a gritty and hot-shooting St. Rita team,” IC Catholic Prep coach TJ Tyrrell said. Andrew Hill led the Knights with 23 points, eight rebounds and three assists. Matthew Sloan added 14 points, while Jordan Hall had seven points, five steals and three assists. Makai Mandley had eight points, three steals and three assists. Danny Fromelt had eight points and three assists.

ICCP then hit the road and recorded a key 60-43 CCL White Division win against St. Francis. “It was important for the conference race,” Tyrrell pointed out. Luke Wojcik shot 3-for-3 from two and 2-for-2 from three early and finished with 12 points and shot 100 percent from the field.

Hill added 12 points and 11 rebounds for a double-double (doubledigit statistics in two categories). Sloan had 10 points, while Fromelt had nine points and five assists. Senior Joe McDonough also played well. “Joe did a nice job giving us a spark off the bench,” Tyrrell said. In the annual Coaches vs. Cancer event at IC Catholic Prep, the Knights defeated Chicago Francis Parker 63-49 in non-conference action to move to 18-2 overall on the season. The event featured a full slate of high school boys and girls basketball games throughout the day with Mass in between. The boys program won at all three levels against Parker. Sloan had 15 points to lead the way, while Hill had another double-double with 14 points, 16 rebounds and four blocked shots. Mandley had 11 points. Hall finished with nine points and Fromelt had eight rebounds and four assists.

Earlier this week, the Knights played the top team in Illinois in Class 3A in Chicago DePaul Prep, which sits atop the CCL Blue Division. ICCP welcomes White Division leader Burbank St. Laurence to town Friday. St. Laurence is 4-0 in division play and ranked in the state in Class 3A. ICCP is 3-0 in division play.

“Friday, we have an even bigger game for the division race,” Tyrrell said. Timothy also faces Walther Christian in a non-conference game Saturday. “It has been an amazing season so far,” Tyrrell said. “The boys are playing at a high level. We still have many challenges ahead, but we are up for the task and look forward to the journey ahead.”

Division game to Glenbard West. “Glenbard West is very good,” Dunn said. “They turned us over a lot — 17 turnovers. They were really good in their 1-3-1. We really struggled handling the ball. When you score 25 points you are not going to beat many teams.”

Through late last week, Hinsdale Central was 17-3 overall and leading the league at 5-1. Glenbard West was 13-4 and tied with Downers Grove North for second in the Silver at 4-1. Downers Grove North was 15-4 overall. York has yet to play Downers North but will do so twice in February (Feb. 11 and Feb. 18). “We had a tough week against the top two teams in the league,” Dunn said. York also dropped a 72-62 WSC Silver game to Proviso West. Iacob

led the Dukes with 25 points, while Stepanich finished with 11. York made 92 defensive plays, led by Iacob with 22. The three losses put York at 8-11 overall and 1-5 in Silver Division action. Proviso West moved to 2-4 in Silver play.

“This is a stretch within the season where we have to keep improving and getting better,” Dunn said. “We are moving forward and trying to continue to be a work in progress and improve so we can play our best basketball at the end of the season. This is a challenging year. We came into it inexperienced, but we have seen some good things. Connor Fitzgerald has taken big steps forward and our big guys like Hunter Stepanich, Costa Kampas and Ethan have gotten better.”

Dunn said a key point of emphasis going forward is ball handling. “We have to take care of the basketball better. Our Achilles heel is turnovers,” he said. “We’re averaging around 13 a game. We want to try and get that into single digits. That’s the difference between beating good teams or not. We rebound well because we are big, but we don’t take care of the basketball well right now.”

York played Yorkville earlier this week in a Martin Luther King shootout event at Geneva. The Dukes face St. Charles East at Batavia in another shootout Saturday at 1:30 p.m. York has this week off from WSC Silver Division action, returning to loop play Friday, Jan. 31 at Oak Park-River Forest.

Timothy Christian girls basketball team has memorable Florida visit

By Mike Miazga CORRESPONDENT

The Timothy Christian girls basketball team had an impactful trip to Florida recently. As part of the high school’s Renew initiative, the squad spent time in the Sunshine State volunteering on a variety of service projects.

The team visited a local grief center where it helped the facility prepare for a new season by taking down Christmas decorations and setting up rooms for counseling sessions, coach Jill Groenewold noted.

The Trojans also helped man a senior citizen car drive-through setup where seniors drove through a garage and players placed food for the week in those cars. “It was very nice interacting with them,” Groenewold said. Timothy also did important work at a food storage center. “They have food there that is not sellable like fruit that doesn’t look the right way or boxes that are sealed but crushed a little bit,” Groenewold explained. Groenewold noted Timothy packed 4,000 pounds of food and made 4,000 meals “for people who don’t know where their meal is coming from,” she said.

Timothy did these service projects around the Orlando/Maitland/Osceola County area. The Trojans’ girls basketball program did its Renew trip to Arizona two years ago. “Florida was great for team building time,” Groenewold said. “The kids got to know each other at another level. We did different team building activities such as an escape room. They enjoyed their time together immensely. The other intent of Renew is the kids are doing a lot of different things and

exposing themselves to situations they can be part of, help the world be a better place and be the hands and feet of Jesus.”

And there was basketball played in central Florida. Timothy downed Foundation Academy from Winter Garden, Florida by a 45-37 count. The game was tied 12-12 after the first quarter and the Trojans led 2322 at halftime. Foundation outscored Timothy 13-6 in the third quarter to go up 35-29, but the Trojans roared back and outscored Foundation 16-2 in the fourth to earn the win. “The kids played really solid,” Groenewold said. “We were losing by 10 and came from behind and pulled it together.”

Timothy then dropped a 36-26 game to The First Academy from Orlando. “It was a defensive battle,” Groenewold said. “They are one of the better private Christian schools from the Orlando area.” Groenewold noted Elisabeth Van Den Berg and Maria Pozdol-Niego both played well in Florida. “Els played really well, and Maria played really well,” she said. “As a team right now, we are playing really tough defense. That’s a collective team effort. We are anticipating more. They have learned to play together and are communicating more and talking up where the ball is going to people. They are moving when the ball is in the air instead of getting there when it’s in somebody’s hands. There has been more emphasis on boxing out and they have picked up on that.”

The Trojans then returned to Illinois and split a pair of games with Yorkville Christian (win) and Illiana Christian (loss). “We won against

a really good Yorkville Christian team,” Groenewold said. “We played a little different defense on them and worked hard to keep their two good scorers from not touching the ball. It worked really well for us.” Sami Drye had five 3s against Yorkville Christian and Van Den Berg scored 15 points “and had a great day on the boards,” Groenewold said.

Timothy dropped a six-point game in Indiana to longtime rival Illiana Christian, dating back to their time together in the defunct Private School League. “We were down by six at halftime and got within two points but couldn’t get over the hump,” Greoenwold said.

Groenewold noted Timothy shot 3-for-30 from the 3-point line. “When you shoot 10 percent from 3-point land on 30 attempts, it’s tough,” Groenewold said. “We couldn’t put the ball in the hole. It was a great defensive battle again, but when you don’t score, it makes the game a lot harder.”

Timothy stood at 8-8 overall and 0-2 in Chicagoland Christian Conference play. The Trojans face Aurora Christian and Woodstock Marian Central Catholic on the road this week in conference action. “I can’t fault the kids,” Groenewold said. “They don’t give up and they work hard. The games we are losing we are in and are in it in the fourth quarter. Sometimes we are six points away from winning and sometimes one point away. We are in these games, we just have to find a way to finish. That’s a youth movement thing, too. We have a lot of sophomores and juniors who are learning how to win the close ones.”

Budget constraints, caucus tensions face House Speaker Welch in his third term

IC Catholic Prep graduate

By Peter Hancock CAPITOL NEWS ILLINOIS

Recent caucus erupted into shouting, drawing criticism from governor

When state Rep. Emanuel “Chris” Welch was sworn in for another term as speaker of the Illinois House this month, he called on his colleagues to “rise to the occasion” and confront the moment that faced them.

Will play volleyball for Division II school

By Mike Miazga CORRESPONDENT

increases in the state’s credit rating; increased funding for K-12 and higher education; promotion of renewable energy; and criminal justice reform measures, to name a few.

Leslie headed to Le Moyne

I feel like I would be so bored without it because it has been such a big part of my life.”

“We are all defined by the moments in our lives and by our responses to them,” Welch said in his inaugural address. “There are young people here today witnessing a very special moment. How we lead in that moment is so important. What we say in that moment is so important.”

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.

In many ways, Welch’s political career has been defined by his handling of critical moments. That was especially true in January 2021, when then-Speaker Michael J. Madigan, struggling under the weight of a burgeoning corruption scandal, began losing the grip on the power he had held for most of the previous 40 years.

It was Welch, a Democrat from the western suburb of Hillside then in his fifth term, who rose from a crowded field of potential contenders to take over one of the most powerful positions in Illinois government.

In a recent statement from his office, Welch pointed to several legislative achievements that occurred during his first four years as speaker—a series of balanced budgets and

“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.”

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.”

Leslie played volleyball and girls soccer at IC Catholic Prep all four years. She was a center-midfielder on the Knights soccer team.

Leslie said she has plenty of memories from IC Catholic Prep’s coach Nancy Kerrigan’s program.

But now, as he enters his third term as speaker, Welch and the Democratic caucus he leads face several new challenges, including significant budget constraints and divisions within the caucus itself. Those divisions erupted in a closed-door caucus meeting during the recent lame duck session and spilled over into public view during contentious negotiations over a bill to regulate the hemp industry.

“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.”

That caucus meeting reportedly included shouting, name-calling and accusations leveled against state agency staff members, leading to open criticisms from Gov. JB Pritzker over Welch’s handling of the situation.

“ And I do believe that we’re going to continue to pass balanced budgets that are compassionate and responsible, like we’ve done the last four years that I’ve been speaker.”

Democratic caucus together on budget and revenue issues during a time when the state faces significant fiscal pressures.

For most of Welch’s time in the speaker’s office, Illinois has enjoyed a period of sustained revenue growth. That has enabled lawmakers to fund such popular things as increased school spending, financial aid for college and university students, and expansion of health care coverage under Medicaid.

– State Rep. Emanuel “Chris” Welch

them to apologize. And it’s my understanding, at least one member has reached out to a staffer and tried to apologize.”

But revenue growth has been slowing in recent months. During the 2024 regular session, lawmakers struggled to pass a revenue package needed to close a roughly $1 billion budget gap. Even with Democrats’ supermajority in the House, it took three votes on the final night of the session in May to pass a bill that included tax hikes on sportsbooks and businesses.

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.”

During a recent interview with Capitol News Illinois, however, Welch downplayed the significance of those tensions and insisted his relationship with the governor’s office remains in good shape.

“Let me say that we had a caucus on a very divisive issue,” Welch said. “We’ve had three caucuses in three different years now on that particular issue, and it gets very emotional. And I have talked to members who, I think, crossed the line and asked

– Bella Leslie

As for the governor, Welch said, “our relationship is great.”

“I love and respect the governor. In my four years as speaker, we’ve accomplished some great policy victories,” he said. “I’ve got two more years here as speaker again, thank God, and we’re going to land more big policy victories. You know, the governor has a job to do, but I have a job to do too.”

This year could prove even more challenging as lawmakers face a projected $3.2 billion budget shortfall. But Welch said he is confident lawmakers will work through the budget challenge.

“And I do believe that we’re going to continue to pass balanced budgets that are compassionate and responsible, like we’ve done the last four years that I’ve been speaker,” he added. “You know, I’m looking forward to the next credit upgrade we receive after we do it again.”

To help meet the challenge, Welch announced the formation of a new leadership team shortly after being reelected speaker, including the appointment of a new team of lead budget negotiators.

For the past four years, Rep. Jehan Gordon-Booth, D-Peoria, served as the House Democrats’ lead negotiator—what lawmakers refer to as the “budgeteer.” But starting this year, Welch will rely on a team of three “co-budgeteers,” all Chicagoans: Reps. Kam Buckner, Eva-Dina Delgado, and Will Guzzardi.

Gordon-Booth will remain a part of the leadership team as an assistant majority leader. She previously held the title of speaker pro-tempore, a position that will now go to Buckner. Rep. Robyn Gabel, of Evanston, will continue to serve as majority leader.

“I’ve been speaker four years now. We balanced the budget every year I’ve been speaker, and some of those years we had very grim forecasts and we still managed to produce budgets with surpluses, make additional payments to our pension obligations and receive credit upgrades,” Welch said.

IC Catholic Prep girls basketball team defeats De La Salle and Ida Crown

By Mike Miazga CORRESPONDENT

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

The IC Catholic Prep girls basketball team had a successful recent stretch, notching a pair of wins against Chicago De La Salle and Skokie Ida Crown. In a 35-28 win over De La Salle in Girls Catholic Athletic Conference White Division play, Mary Kate Hilgart had 17 points, eight rebounds and one steal. Maura Grogan added eight points, 14 rebounds, two assists and one steal. “It was low scoring,” ICCP coach Todd Fisher said. “The one thing on our side, I was happy with our defense. Holding them to 28 points, we did a pretty good job on the defensive end contesting shots. It was a very good conference win.”

They lost to West Chicago on think an own goal in the last five minutes. That was against the state champs in the sectional finals. That’s a hell of a season if you ask me.”

The Knights also recorded a 59-44 non-conference win against Skokie Ida Crown. Grogan had 19 points, 14 rebounds, seven assists and two steals. Hilgart had 17 points, 11 rebounds, three assists and two steals, notching a double-double in the process (double digits in two statistical categories). Lexi Hoffman added 14 points. “Ida Crown is a 1A school that made it to the super-sectional last year,” Fisher explained. “It was a competitive game.”

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.

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.”

One of the most challenging tasks ahead for Welch could be holding the

• AARP

(Continued from page 14)

Knights playing this week with conference title at stake

shots and executed their offense very well.”

ICCP wrapped up the week with a 50-40 non-conference loss to former Metro Suburban Conference comrade Kankakee Bishop McNamara. Grogan had 17 points, eight rebounds, two assists and one steal, while Hilgart had 14 points and blocked a shot.

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.”

ICCP led 13-9 after the first quarter but trailed 18-16 at halftime and 35-31 heading into the fourth quarter.

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)

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.”

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.”

essary,” said Villivalam, who serves as chair of the Illinois Senate Transportation Committee. “Aligning standards with other states by lowering barriers for seniors while establishing new reporting procedures will keep Illinois roads safe and accessible.”

the floor very well as a post player and plays very good defense. She had a very good week and is having a very good year. Maura had a very good inside-out week. She knocked down some 3s and mid-range jump shots and finished in the paint. Mary Kate also has been very consistent this year and is playing very good defense. Both kids had very good weeks.”

“Current road test requirements are antiquated, creating superfluous barriers to some of our safest drivers retaining their driving privileges.” said Hoffman.

“Allowing immediate relatives— who have the most intimate and consistent interactions with their loved ones—to report medical or cognitive concerns about a licensed driver is a more logical and effective approach to maintaining road safety.”

For more than a dozen years, Illinois has been the only state in the nation that requires senior drivers to have their behind-the-wheel skills tested on a regular basis. The last two states that mandated driving tests for seniors did away with them in 2011 (New Hampshire) and 2005 (Indiana).

“It was a competitive game and close throughout,” Fisher said. “Bishop Mac went on a run in the fourth. We hit some big shots and cut it to under 10 at one point. Bishop Mac is a very good 2A team. It was a very good 2A non-conference game. Bishop Mac has big forwards and some nice players. Let me say this, we played them well. I was very happy with how we played. Looking back on the week, on offense we had a good week moving the ball and hitting shots like we have done all year and getting to the free-throw line and hitting free throws. We went 2-1 for the week and played a good game against a good Bishop Mac team.”

ble and transparent and communicate with everybody.”

Stopka will teach Spanish at York. He taught Spanish and one math class at St. Pat’s. “My philosophy is I am more of a players’ coach,” he said. “I have been a big Liverpool soccer supporter ever since 2015 when Jurgen Klopp came over and he’s known as a players’ coach. He’s kind of my coaching idol. I want to related to the players and form bonds with them. am more light-hearted and smiling. I like to have fun and joke with the kids. The goal is understanding where each player can be successful and the provide the best way possible to convey the knowledge they need at the position they play. I am not big

The Knights trailed 13-12 after the first quarter and came back to take a 29-22 lead into halftime. “Ida Crown has some 3-point shooters who are nice players,” Fisher said. “They hit

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

Fisher also lauded the play of Hoffman in the Ida Crown contest. “Lexi stepped up and had a very good game against Ida Crown,” he said. “She hit a couple of 3s and had a very good game against them.” The 2-1 mark put the Knights at 12-6 overall and the De La Salle victory moved them to 4-0 in GCAC White action.

Fisher was pleased with how Grogan and Hilgart performed during the 2-1 week. “Maura and Mary Kate had very good weeks,” he said. “They have consistently been in our top three scorers throughout the season. Maura has consistently all year done a great job rebounding. She sees

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

Earlier this week, the Knights played league unbeaten Aurora Central Catholic (18-2, 5-0) in a game that likely determined the conference title. ICCP finishes conference play this week against Burbank St. Laurence and wraps up the week against Burbank Reavis. Wheaton St. Francis and Chicago Resurrection each had two losses (2-2) in the league through late last week. “The conference championship is on the line this week,” Fisher said. ICCP also will take part in the overall GCAC tournament that brings together all schools from the Red and White divisions.

proudly presents

YORK HIGH SCHOOL PLAYER OF THE WEEK ETHAN IACOB YORK BOYS BASKETBALL

Iacob hit for 25 points in York’s recent West Suburban Conference Silver Division game at Proviso West. Iacob also led the Dukes with 13 points in a WSC Silver game against division-leader Hinsdale Central.

CHRIS FOX PHOTO Elmhurst Independent

IDPH approves new conditions for treatment with medical cannabis

Four conditions were approved following advisory board review; first new conditions added to state list since 2019

The Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) has approved four conditions to be added to the list of medical issues that may be treated with medical cannabis. The four newly approved conditions are endometriosis, ovarian cysts, uterine fibroids, and female orgasmic disorder.

The approval by IDPH Director, Dr. Sameer Vohra, comes following a thorough review by the Medical Cannabis Advisory Board (MCAB) and IDPH staff.

Under Illinois law, the director reviews petition requests to add condi-

tions to the approved list. The director considers available scientific analysis and medical literature to determine whether medical cannabis would be an appropriate treatment for each condition.

“Medical cannabis has been shown to offer an effective means of relief from a variety of debilitating medical conditions and symptoms,” said Vohra. “IDPH reviews petitions carefully using expert opinion and the most up to date evidence to make decisions that best serve Illinois residents. IDPH looks forward to working

with our medical providers to ensure appropriate access for individuals struggling with these newly approved conditions.”

The latest conditions approved for treatment with medical cannabis are:

• Endometriosis. This is a condition in which tissue similar to the uterine lining grows outside the uterus, which can result in severe pain, scarring, and infertility. Studies show that cannabis is an effective means of treating pain from endometriosis.

• Ovarian cysts. This is a broad category covering several different types

of cysts (a solid or fluid-filled pocket) which grows on or within the ovary. Medical cannabis would be used to treat the pain associated with these cysts.

• Uterine fibroids. These common, benign growths can lead to chronic pelvic pain, which can be treated with medical cannabis.

• Female orgasmic disorder. This is a condition where a female has difficulty reaching orgasm. There may be a wide variety of causes for this syndrome. Data suggests that cannabis can be helpful for women with

difficulties or dysfunction attaining orgasm.

The order adding the four new conditions is effective immediately, and providers are now able to begin certifying patients with those conditions for treatment with medical cannabis.

The four approvals mark the first expansion since 2019 of the list of conditions that can be treated with medical cannabis.

Those four newly added conditions bring the total to 56. You can find the current list of eligible conditions at Debilitating Conditions (illinois.gov)

Illinoisans may be able to file federal taxes for free; state announces Apple ID licenses

Pritzker announces state’s participation in federal Direct File program

CAPITOL NEWS ILLINOIS

Many Illinois residents will be able to use the IRS Direct File service to electronically prepare and file their 2024 federal tax returns for free.

Almost 2 million eligible Illinois taxpayers will be able to use Direct File starting Jan. 27. Gov. J.B. Pritzker said this service will “put money typically spent on tax preparation services back into the pockets of hardworking families across Illinois.”

After users file their federal taxes, Direct File will connect user to MyTax Illinois, Illinois’ free state income tax filing system where they can file their Illinois state returns. The program is accessible on mobile phones, laptops, tablets or desktop

Elmhurst Independent

Elmhurst’s Locally Owned and Operated Hometown Newspaper

Every Story, Every Photo, Every Advertisement In Print and Online

Receive a free eSubscription of your hometown newspaper

For a free eSubscription with a weekly link emailed to any Elmhurst resident or business, sign up at: rockvalleyenews.com

Your FREE eSubscription can be read on a computer, laptop, or tablet.

computers and users will have access to help through a chatbot in both English and Spanish.

“We understand that a significant amount of time and money is spent every year to ensure personal income tax returns are filed accurately and on time,” said Illinois Department of Revenue Director David Harris.

“This integration will help relieve stress and financial burden for taxpayers.”

The IRS created Direct File as a result of the Inflation Reduction Act, which was signed in 2022 by President Joe Biden. It began as a test program in 2024 and will become permanent in 25 states this year. The IRS estimates that over 30 million taxpayers will be eligible for Direct File in 2025.

To check eligibility and to use the service, visit https://www.irs.gov/ filing/irs-direct-file-for-free. Individuals may not qualify if they:

• Have unreported cash income, such as tips or alimony.

• Have income from sources such as gig work that’s reported on other tax forms.

• Have added or used money from a Medical Savings Account.

• Have taken distributions from employer-sponsored retirement plans, like a 401(k), pension, annuity, 403(b), or governmental 457(b).

• Have made contributions to or taken distributions from an IRA.

• Exceed $200,000 in wages (or $168,600 if they had more than one employer).

• File as Married Filing Jointly, and their spouse’s wages exceed $200,000 (or $168,600 if the spouse had more than one employer).

• File as Married Filing Jointly, and have combined wages exceeding $250,000.

• File as Married Filing Separately, and wages exceed $125,000.

• Claim additional tax credits for college tuition or other higher education expenses, energy efficient home updates or adoption expenses.

• Take itemized deductions.

Mobile driver’s licenses and state ID’s Illinois Secretary of State Alexi Giannoulias says he hopes to bring mobile driver’s licenses and state IDs to iPhones by the end of the year.

Giannoulias has announced that his office has officially started working with Apple to allow users to access their driver’s licenses and state

IDs digitally on their iPhone or Apple Watch. He said in a news release he expects to expand these features in the future for additional digital wallets, such as Google Wallet for Android users.

Lawmakers passed House Bill 4592 last spring, allowing the secretary of state to issue mobile IDs and driver’s licenses. When it rolls out, Illinois will be the 11th state to adopt mobile IDs.

But a mobile driver’s license and ID would not replace physical cards. The cards would be issued “in addition to, and not instead of” a physical ID, under the law. The law allows agencies and private entities to choose if they want to accept electronic IDs in place of physical ones, but “upon request by law enforcement, a credential holder must provide the credential holder’s physical credential.”

The secretary of state’s office has a sign-up page for Illinois residents to receive updates about the program, including when mobile IDs become available for iPhone users.

The move toward digital IDs is part of Giannoulias’ “commitment to modernizing the office,” according to his office.

Nursing home protections

State lawmakers have approved a bill aimed at protecting nursing home residents from retaliation if they report violations at the facility.

House Bill 2474 aims to prohibit nursing home staff from taking “retaliatory actions” against residents who engage in protected activities, such as speaking out about rule or law violations in their facilities.

The bill specifically protects residents who: talk to a supervisor of the facility, the public, or to an outside authority about a rule or law being broken by the facility staff; give information or testimony during an investigation of a facility; or seek help to leave the facility. It gives residents a private right to sue if they believe the facility broke the law.

The bill would also require nursing home facilities to file any resident complaints that they’ve been improperly retaliated against with the Illinois Department of Public Health and to give a brief description of any complaints filed to the resident’s next of kin once a year.

The measure passed 48-2 in the Senate and 89-16 in the House.

Can’t-miss events in and around the area

Editor’s note: If you have information on an event in Addison, Bensenville, Elmhurst, Lombard and Villa Park taking place that you would like us to consider listing here, please email that information to: news1@ rvpublishing.com.

Ongoing

North Suburban Carvers meetings

The North Suburban Carvers meet on the first and third Mondays of each month at the Wood Dale Public Library from 6:308:30 p.m. Anyone interested in carving, power carving, wood burning or special finishing techniques is welcome. North Suburban Carvers is a non-profit organization that promotes carving in the Chicago area. For more information, visit: northsurburbancarvers.com org/calendar.aspx

Friday, Jan. 24

Exhibition opening reception: Sustenance & Land: Five Artists Consider our Relationship with the Earth. Elmhurst

From 6-9 p.m. presented by the Elmhurst Art Museum, 150 S. Cottage Hill Ave., be the first to see this group exhibition exploring human connection to the land and the many ways the earth sustains us. Early access for members is at 6 p.m.; 7 p.m. for non-member ticketed entry. RSVP is required. Price: $18 for adults, $15 for seniors, $10 for students 18-and-over with a school ID, $5 for children ages 5-17 and free for museum members and children under 5. For more information, call 630-834-0202 or email: info@elmhurstartmuseum.org.

Saturday, Jan. 25

Repair Fair at SCARCE Lombard

From 9 a.m.to noon, this month’s Repair Fair includes experts in lamp repair; kitchen knife, handheld and garden tool sharpening; and jewelry repairs, as well as a seamstress doing simple fixes. Stop in and visit with all the experts sharing their knowledge in our classroom. Visit www.scarce.org/repair-fair for details.

Sunday, Jan. 26

Lecture: “From Prairie to Tree Town: Tales of Old Elmhurst” Elmhurst

Starting at 2 p.m. and presented by the Elmhurst History Museum, 120 E. Park Ave., join Elmhurst History Museum Executive Director, Dave Oberg, for a fascinating discussion of Elmhurst’s early years, its growth into a modern city and the individuals who helped shape the community along the way. From early settlers to important movers and shakers, this lecture breaks down the evolution of the Elmhurst community. Price: free for members, $8 for

non-members. For more information, visit: www.elmhursthistory.org.

Monday, Jan. 27

Geneology Club meeting Lombard

Starting at 7 p.m., join the Helen Plum Library Genealogy Club for a roundtable discussion to share your research findings, hear success stories from other members and seek solutions to brick walls. This program will be in-person and held in the Conference Room (2nd floor). Registration required. Call 630-627-0316 or visit helenplum.org.

Friday, Jan. 31

Family Bingo Pizza Night Villa Park

From 6-7:30 p.m. the Villa Park Recreation Center, 320 E. Wildwood, bring the family out for this exciting new way to experience the new Villa Park Recreation Center. You’ll enjoy pizza, soft drinks, and desserts while playing Bingo for prizes. This event is for all ages and is $13 per person. Registration is required. For more information, visit: https://www.invillapark. com/161/Community-Events.

Saturday, Feb. 1

Take Your Child to the Library Day Villa Park

From 9:30 a.m.-5 p.m. at the Villa Park Public Library, 305 S. Ardmore, for babies, toddlers, preschool, kindergarten, elementary school, middle school and high school age youths and their families. There are seats remaining, but registration is required. For more information, call 630-834-1164 or visit: https://villapark.librarycalendar.com/ event/take-your-child-library-day-41629.

Friday, Jan. 21 through Sunday, Feb 2

Ice Festival Downers Grove

The annual Ice Festival in downtown Downers Grove will be a weekend of outdoor fun. Don’t miss the return of the Friday Night ice carving demonstration from 5:30-7:30 p.m. at the corner of Main and Curtiss. Enjoy live ice carving demonstrations on Saturday and Sunday from 11a.m.-3 p.m. at the Main Street Train Station. Additional events will be going on at many downtown Downers Grove businesses. For more information, visit: www.downtowndg.org.

Sunday, Feb. 2

Community music program: Downtown

Charlie Brown

Oak Brook

From 2-3 p.m. at the Lizzadro Museum of Lapidary Art, 1220 Kensington Road, get ready for an unforgettable dive into the heart of American music. The blues, born in the Mississippi Delta with deep African

roots, tells powerful stories of love, loss, joy, and faith. Join Downtown Charlie Brown (keyboard and vocals) and Harry Binford (acoustic guitar) as they return for the third year running. They will explore the migration of the blues from the Delta to Chicago, bringing to life legends like Robert Johnson, Muddy Waters, Howlin’ Wolf, Son House, and more. All ages welcome and registration is required. Tickets are $20 per person. For more information and to register, visit: Register at www.lizzadromuseum.org https://book.peek.com/s/28901719-60a54489-85ca-7db20beb738c/JkV71.

Thursday, Feb. 6

2025 Go Technology Group ribbon cutting event Lombard

From 4-5 p.m. at Go Technology Group, 10 E. 22nd St., Lombard, join the Lombard Chamber of Commerce as it celebrates its new member, Go Technology Group, with a ribbon

cutting ceremony. For more information, call the chamber at 630-627-5040 or visit: https://business.lombardchamber.com/ events/details/2025-go-technology-groupribbon-cutting-event-128483?calendarMon th=2025-02-01.

Friday, Feb. 7

Senior monthly luncheon

Bensenville

Senior luncheons for Bensenville residents and non-residents take place every month at the Heritage Center. Doors open at 10 a.m., lunch is served at 11 a.m. Bingo and raffles follow lunch. Registration and payment is required. If you would like to join, simply register for the lunch by calling 630-350-3426 or stop by the Heritage Center front desk from 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Monday through Friday. .If you have any questions, please call the Senior Hotline at 630-350-3426 or visit: https:// www.bensenville.il.us/838/Senior-MonthlyLuncheons.

NOTICE TO OUR READERS

DuPage Destinations

Saturday, Feb. 8

Winter Fest

Lombard

From 1:30-4 p.m. presented by the Lombard Park District at Sunset Knoll park, 820 Finley Road, enjoy a free afternoon of frozen winter fun. Be sure to bundle up because this indoor/outdoor event is full of hot chocolate, games, crafts, winter demonstrations like dog sledding and ice carving, visits from special guests and more. For more information, visit: https:// lombardparks.com/winter-fest.

Galentine’s Market

Elmhurst

Presented by Brewpoint Craft, 617 N. York, from 5-9 p.m. Get ready for a night of shopping and sipping at Galentine’s Market. Whether you’re out for a fun night with friends or looking to snag the perfect Valentine’s Day gift, this event has it all. Enjoy signature Valentine’s-inspired drinks while discovering unique, handmade goodies from local vendors. Free. For more information, call 630-302-

Third annual Cocoa Crawl Villa Park

From 11 a.m.-3 p.m. The Cocoa Crawl offers a fun day of sampling various cocoa beverages, including some hot, cold, and adult options. Participating businesses may also serve hot cider, coffee, and water. Participants will pick up their map at the Villa Park Public Library at the event, then visit businesses in any order. Drop off your map at the last stop or return it to the library for a chance to win raffle prizes. Cocoa Crawl mugs and treats are available on a first-come, first-served basis, one per paid reservation. Tickets are $10 for participants aged 16 and older, which includes a free mug or hot cocoa treat (while supplies last), and a map to participating businesses. Children 15 and under can join for free with a participating adult, but each child must have a ticket to receive a map. Tickets are now on sale. For more information, call 630-834-1164 or visit: www. vppl.info.

1. To receive the Elmhurst Independent mailed print version for one year, make a donation in any amount. IF YOU THINK THE INDEPENDENT IS WORTH 50¢ an issue, it would be $26.00; 75¢ an issue - $39.00 or $1 an issue - $52.00. You won’t get a tote bag, T-shirt, coffee mug or CD of Lawrence Welk’s Greatest Hits. But you will get the satisfaction of knowing that you have helped to support your favorite newspaper.

2. Pick up a free copy of the Elmhurst Independent print version at any one of more than 80 newsstand locations in Elmhurst every Thursday

3. Sign up for a free weekly eSubscription that can be read on a computer, laptop or tablet. Your link will be emailed to you every week. Sign up at today at: RockValleyEnews.com

 Please sign me up for weekly mail home delivery of the Elmhurst Independent print version for one year. Enclosed is my donation. Readers that have made a donation in the last year will continue to receive the Elmhurst Independent by mail at no charge for up to 12 months.

Business & Service

HANDYMAN BILL

CUSTOM CONCRETE

Residential

Residential driveways, patios, walkways. Stamped and colored concrete. Call Greg

Stamped and colored

Call Greg

Classifieds

Burial Needs

as a

or

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.

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 tollfree at 1-900-669-9777. The toll-free tele phone number for the hearing impaired is 1-800-927-9275. EQUAL HOUSING OPPORTUNITY