EI101024 by Southern Lakes Newspapers / Rock Valley Publishing

Annual CROP Hunger Walk a success

Several teams of walkers from various churches and community organizations throughout the area took part in the annual Great Prairie Trail CROP Hunger Walk on Sunday afternoon. The 3-mile walk stepped off from First Church of Lombard and followed a route along the Prairie Path and Great Western Trail to raise awareness about the need for food assistance around the world and right here in our own communities. Funds raised by each team will benefit Disciples Food Pantry, Villa Park; The Outreach House, Lombard; Community Table, Lombard; United Community Concerns Association, Elmhurst; and Food for the Soul Food Pantry, Addison. A group from St. Peters UCC in Elmhurst (shown here) participated in the walk for the third straight year. Last year, walkers raised $27,000.

MIKE SANDROLINI PHOTOS Elmhurst Independent

American Legion presents ‘Stories Behind the Songs’ Oct. 19

5 th annual country music event raises funds for Legion

By Dee Longfellow FOR THE ELMHURST INDEPENDENT

On Saturday, Oct. 19 from 6-10 p.m., the Elmhurst American Legion Post THB #187 will host a popular country music event that has been taking place at the Legion the past few years.

The fifth annual “Stories Behind the Songs” event features hit songs

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performed by their original songwriters who will then share the background involved with each selection.

This year’s lineup includes Frank Myers, Brett Jones and Billy Montana, as well as Sarah Darling and Jeff Dayton.

Tickets are $125 per person, which includes an open bar and food provided by Golden Boy BBQ and Ro-

berto’s. Tickets can be purchased at facebook.com/ElmhurstAmericanLegion.

Frank Myers has written songs such as “I Swear,” “Front Porch Looking In,” and “Just You and I,” among others.

Brett Jones has composed songs including, “You Won’t Ever Be Lonely,” Better Man Better Off,” and

“Little Past Little Rock.”

Billy Montana is best known for “Suds In the Bucket,” “Hard to Love,” and “More Than a Memory.”

They will be joined on stage singer-songwriter and performer Sarah Darling. Also on the list is Jeff Dayton, a songwriter for George Strait and lead guitar player for Glen Campbell, Kenny Chesney and Lee

Greenwood. There will also be raffles and prize drawings along with a lot more fun. This is an event that should not be missed and all proceeds benefit the American Legion, located at 310 Butterfield Road. For more information, call 630833-7800 or visit americanlegionthb187.org.

Arts DuPage and JCS Arts, Health and Education Fund announce grant opportunity for communities and not-for-profits to support public art

Arts DuPage, a DuPage Foundation initiative, and the JCS Arts, Health and Education Fund (JCS Fund) of DuPage Foundation, invite DuPage County communities and not-for-profit organizations to apply for a grant to support public art.

The JCS Fund is offering matching grants of up to $25,000 for public art projects in DuPage County. Public art projects may include permanent or limited-time projects in any art medium. Examples include murals, sculptures, and temporary summer art installations.

“We are thrilled to partner with the JCS Arts, Health and Education Fund of DuPage Foundation with this grant opportunity,” said Debbie Venezia, director of Arts DuPage. Art programs like this have so many benefits—they create aesthet-

ic, cultural, and economic vitality in a community, and they are free and accessible to everyone. Public art brings people together, starts conversations, and identifies the cultural heritage of a town and its residents.”

DuPage County communities and not-for-profit organizations are eligible to apply. Projects should be installed or completed by Sept. 30, 2025, and recipients of the grants for permanent projects must commit to repair, maintain, and replace artwork to ensure its long-term sustainability.

To learn more about this grant opportunity, visit https://dupagefoundation.org/grants/jcs-fund. html. Application deadline is Friday, Nov. 22, at 5 p.m. Contact Debbie Venezia, director of Arts DuPage, at debbie@dupagefoundation.org or 630.598.5299 with any questions re-

Elmhurst Park District holds open houses to provide information about the Nov. 5 referendum

The Elmhurst Park District is holding two upcoming open houses to provide residents with information regarding the park district’s referendum in the Nov. 5 election.

The open houses will take place at the park district’s Wagner Community Center, 615 West Avenue, on Tuesday, Oct. 15 (10 a.m. to noon) and Tuesday, Oct. 22 (6 to 8 p.m.).

Tours at the open houses will be -

gin on the half hour.

In the referendum on the Nov. 5 ballot, the Elmhurst Park District is giving residents the choice to fund high-priority projects identified by the community.

The open houses will allow residents to view the proposed projects and renderings, ask questions and take a tour of Wagner Community Center, which will be replaced if the referendum is approved.

lated to creating a public art project.

About Arts DuPage

Arts DuPage, a DuPage Foundation initiative, is a countywide arts council that supports, promotes, advocates for, and distributes grants to the arts in DuPage County. Best known for artsdupage.org, its comprehensive event website for arts and entertainment, Arts DuPage showcases the vibrant local arts community, which generates cultural, economic, and social benefits for DuPage County and its resident

Dee Longfellow to retire

According to Elmhurst Independent publisher Pete Cruger, Dee Longfellow has announced her plans to take her father’s fedora and retire from her position as editorial coordinator, effective Oct. 31, 2024. She has worked for the Elmhurst Independent since its inception in 2002, as well as other newspapers printed by Rock Valley Publishing, including the Addison Independent, the Bensenville Independent and others. She began her career in the hotel business, worked for a large Chamber of Commerce in the northwest suburbs and operated her own public relations and freelance writing business, which led her to producing editorial and advertising content for the DuPage Business Ledger (now the Daily Herald - Business Ledger) and for Press Publications, when it was owned by Cruger.

SUBMITTED

PHOTO Rock Valley Publishing

Dee Longfellow

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

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Office Hours: Monday-Friday 11am-3pm

DuPage County Stormwater Management accepting applications for water quality grant

The DuPage County Stormwater Management Planning Committee is accepting grant proposals for projects aimed at improving the quality of the County’s waterways.

In its 26th year, the Water Quality Improvement Program (WQIP) grant provides funding to projects exhibiting a regional water quality benefit, including restoration and green infrastructure projects.

“We are proud to be able to work with partners in DuPage County to continue to share costs for great projects that improve water quality,” said Jim Zay, chairman of the DuPage County Stormwater Management Committee. “Many of these projects have offset the impacts of flooding, helping to make the county more resilient.”

Under the program, organizations and individuals may apply for reimbursement of up to 25 percent of

County sheriff’s office warns residents about appeals for money

The DuPage County Sheriff’s Office recently issued a message to citizens about scam artists who claim to represent the sheriff’s office.

“We have received many citizen complaints,” noted the sheriff’s office statement issued on Saturday, Oct. 5.

“Please be aware that a great deal of scamming entities are posing as affiliates of the DuPage County Sheriff’s Office. If you are being contacted for solicitation of money or political endorsements, please know that these are not authorized representatives of the DuPage County Sheriff’s Office and have nothing to do with public safety here in DuPage County. These are entities with their own political or financial goals.”

The sheriff’s office added that it never asks residents for financial contributions.

“The DuPage County Sheriff’s Office will never reach out to our citizens asking for money or any kind of political commitment. That’s not who we are. We are a professional organization that would never be involved in this type of behavior. Don’t be fooled by these police impersonators, and as always, report anything that you think might be a crime.”

Police department to hold open house to recruit Police Explorers on Oct. 22

The Elmhurst Police Department’s Police Explorers will hold an open house on Tuesday, Oct. 22, at 7 p.m. in the training room at the police department, 125 E. First St. Prospective explorers must be between 14-21 years old, and can reside anywhere to become a part of the Police Explorers program.

Visit the open house to learn more about the Police Explorers program and enjoy pizza, raffle prizes, K9 and drone presentations, and more.

costs for projects that improve water quality. Since the grant program began in 2000, DuPage County has awarded approximately $6.6 million to 112 projects, such as permeable paver parking lots, green roofs, and

native vegetation, with $300,000 awarded annually.

Applicants may apply virtually through a WQIP Grant Application portal. The application deadline is Jan. 3, 2025. To access the portal

and download the WQIP Grant Application Packet, visit: https://www. dupagecounty.gov/government/departments/stormwater_management/ grants/water_quality_improvement_ program.php.

Elmhurst Hospital fundraiser

The Elmhurst Memorial Hospital Foundation raised a record $530,000 at its 20th annual Autumn Affair on Sept. 7 at the Four Seasons Hotel Chicago. More than 300 tickets were sold for the gala, which is the Foundation’s largest fundraiser of the year. Proceeds from this year’s event will support cancer care and other programs and services that directly impact Elmhurst Hospital patients. The Autumn Affair featured live and silent auctions, a Wine Toss, 360 Photo Booth and raffles for a golden ticket and pearl necklace. Founded in 1980, the EMH Foundation offers many giving opportunities and annual special events designed to support the hospital’s programs and facilities, including the Autumn Affair, Chef Fest, Reindeer Route Housewalk, Hope. Lives. Here Cancer Campaign and Love Lights. For more information, visit www.EMHFoundation.org or call 331-2210388. One photo from the Autumn Affair shows Mark and Liz Hoffman of Elmhurst. Another photo (below) shows (left to right) Estella Sanders, Elmhurst Hospital President Dr. Kimberley Darey and Brian Dawe—the hospital’s director of patient care.

Obituaries

CONSTANCE SZEWCZYK

Constance Szewczyk, affectionately known by many names—Tia Sue, Connie to her friends, and Sue to her family—passed away peacefully on October 2, 2024.

Constance was a gentle and kind soul who touched the lives of everyone she met. She loved playing sports, especially racquetball and volleyball, and was an avid reader who enjoyed the challenge of puzzles—often completing 1,000-piece puzzles in a single day. She cherished riding her bike, traveling to Mexico, and, most importantly, her game and card nights, where her infectious laughter made the game of PIT unforgettable.

She is survived by her brother Marty Szewczyk and his wife Debbie and her brother David DeTomaso and his wife Connie, along with their children Joseph, James, Debbie, and Rebecca.

Constance will also be deeply missed by her lifelong friend and caretaker, Nancy Stan, as well as lifelong friends Tina Sharp and Patty Netti. She leaves behind many cousins, other family members, and great friends who cherished her presence.

Welcoming Constance into heaven are her parents and her beloved dogs, Chico, Mandy, and Charlie. She will be remembered for her love, laughter, and the warmth she brought to all.

A visitation was held at Pedersen Ryberg Funeral Home on Tuesday, Oct. 8, from 9:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m., followed by a mass at 10:30 a.m. at

Queen of Heaven Catholic Church. Interment to follow at Mt. Carmel Cemetery, Hillside, IL.

LEMYLE PAAPE, 82

Lemyle Paape, passed away in her 82nd year, Native of Vietnam, longtime resident of Elmhurst, retired employee of Elmhurst Memorial Hospital; beloved wife of Charles; loving mother of Anson, Cristina (Richard) Henderson and Dorothy Kotscha; cherished grandmother of Anthony, Jonathan, Natasha, Genesis, Amanda, Sarah, Samantha, Ashley, Mary, Charlie, Everett, Sierra and the late Joshua and great-grandmother of Annabelle, Elijah, Michael, Cora, Lily, Isabella, Nelly, Ava, Jaxson, Remington and Payton; dear sister of Ngoc Anh Le, Nghi Le, Thang (Thong) Le and Van Le; aunt of many nieces and nephews.

Visitation was Sunday, October 6, 2024 and Monday, October 7, 2024, at Gibbons Funeral Home, 134 South York Road, (1/2 mile North of Saint Charles Road), Elmhurst. Mass of Christian Burial was at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church. Interment Saint Mary Catholic Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Elmhurst Memorial Hospital Foundation, 155 East Brush Hill Road, Elmhurst IL 60126. For funeral information please call 630-832-0018 or www. gibbonsfuneralhome.com.

Special funeral procession

The Elmhurst Police Department issued a statement about a traffic procession that took place in the city on the afternoon of Friday, Oct. 4. “Today, at 12:45 p.m. you may have noticed EPD providing traffic control near York and Butterfield for a funeral procession honoring a fallen U.S. soldier,” noted the police department’s statement. “U.S. Army PFC Harry Jerele of Berkeley, Illinois, died as a prisoner of war during World War II. PFC Jerele was a member of the 192nd Tank Battalion when Japanese forces invaded the Philippines in December 1941. Intense fighting continued until the surrender of Corregidor Island on May 6, 1942. Thousands of U.S. and Filipino soldiers were captured and interned in POW camps. PFC Jerele was one of many subjected to the Bataan Death March, then held at Cabanatuan POW Camp. According to records, PFC Jerele died on Dec. 28, 1942, and was buried with others in the camp cemetery. In December 2023, U.S. Army scientists were able to identify the remains of PFC Jerele and he was returned home, with a funeral service today [Friday, Oct. 4]. Members of the Elmhurst Police and Fire Departments along with many other area agencies rendered honors to this fallen soldier as his procession made its way along Butterfield and York Roads. Many years may pass but the sacrifices of our service members will never be forgotten.”

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.

Battery

Sept. 29

A reporting officer responded to the 700 block of N. Indiana for a report of battery. Surveillance video reportedly showed that the suspect approached the victim aggressively and pushed him. The victim then got back into his vehicle and drove off.

Criminal damage to property

Sept. 28

Police said that subsequent to a disturbance at Elmhurst Hospital at 9:52 a.m., a suspect damaged several items in one of the emergency rooms, causing significant damage.

Sept. 27

Police said a victim reported that a suspect knocked on and broke his window, causing his TV to fall and break when the window gave out. A reporting officer made contact with the suspect, Aristotle Bolt, 18, of Elmhurst, whom police said admitted that he was responsible. Bolt was issued a citation for vandalism.

Domestic battery, disorderly conduct, domestic incident, dispute, disturbance

Oct. 2

Anthony Hood, 24, of Chicago Heights, was charged with disorderly conduct, possession of cannabis by a driver and improper window tinting subsequent to a traffic stop at a gas station near North and Addison at 4:03 p.m. Police said the suspect admitted to urinating in a bottle at the gas pumps and exposing himself to a female who was pumping gas near his vehicle. Additionally, Hood was found to have cannabis that was not in a properly sealed, odor-proof, child-resistant container, according to police.

DUI, consumption of alcohol by a minor

Sept. 29

Daniel Gonzalez Castrejon, 58, of Countryside, was issued a citation for unlawful possession of alcohol in public near York at the Illinois Prairie Path at 4:19 p.m. Police said the suspect was located at the location holding an open can of beer.

Sept. 28

Blanca Acevedo, 41, of Roselle, was charged with DUI and possession of open alcohol by a driver in the 200 block of N. York at 4:51 a.m.

Angel Bustamante, 33, of Chicago, was charged with aggravated fleeing and eluding, DUI, driving while license revoked, improper lane usage, speeding, illegal transportation of cannabis by a driver and disobeying a traffic control device subsequent to a traffic stop near North and Highview at 3:14 a.m.

Sept. 27

Cheniece Mosley, 45, of Chicago, was

charged with driving while license suspended, illegal transportation of alcohol by a driver and possession of cannabis in motor vehicle subsequent to a traffic stop in the 100 block of E. North at 10:11 p.m.

Fleeing, eluding

According to information provided last week by the Elmhurst Police Department, police reported one incident of fleeing and eluding during which the driver of a vehicle fled the scene after being stopped for a traffic stop by police.

Harassment, threats

Sept. 29

A victim a Elmhurst Hospital told police at 7:36 a.m. that a suspect became frustrated with hospital security staff and made threats of harm toward staff and security. The suspect was escorted off the property.

Sept. 27

Yair U. Carrillo Ibarra, 28, of Cicero, was charged with six counts of electronic harassment on the above date for an alleged incident that occurred Feb. 28.

Identity theft, fraud

According to information provided by the Elmhurst Police Department, police reported three 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: Marvis Hiner, 37, of Hillside, near Butterfield and Poplar at 7:38 p.m. Sept. 28.

Possession of a controlled substance

Oct. 2

Malachi Castner, 24, of Chicago, was charged with unlawful possession of controlled substance near Myrtle and North at 7:37 a.m. Police said a reporting officer discovered drug paraphernalia in Castner’s possession and confirmed the suspect had three active warrants from DuPage County.

Suspicious incident

Oct. 1

A complainant reported a suspect entered her driveway in the 300 block of S. Hill and took pictures of her home. The suspect left when the complainant advised she was calling the police.

of N. York

at 2:59 a.m., a reporting officer observed two suspicious vehicles. According to police, upon making contact, two suspects were found to be displaying fictitious Florida license plates and had no valid driver’s licenses. Darivaldo Ramierz Velazquez, 46, and Bernardo Garcia Perez, 345, both of Plant City, Florida, were charged with unlawful display of registration, no valid driver’s license and no insurance.

Sept. 27

While on patrol in the 100 block of W. Third at 3:35 a.m., a reporting officer observed a suspect in a ski mask running into a running vehicle. A responding officer attempted a traffic stop for driving the wrong way, but the offending vehicle failed to stop and fled at a high rate of speed. The vehicle was last seen eastbound on North Avenue. An ISPERN message was broadcast. Upon further investigation, it was found that a car had been burglarized.

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

Sept. 30

A suspect in the 400 block of S. Mitchell was observed taking several packages before fleeing in a Toyota Avalon with no plates.

Sept. 27-Sept. 30

Police said an auto dealership in the 700 block of N. York reported an unknown suspect removed the tires and rims from two dealer-owned Mazda CX70s in the dealership’s rear lot sometime between the above dates.

Sept. 29

Victor Rodriguez, 33, of Chicago, was charged with retail theft at a store in the 900 block of S. York at 10:43 a.m.

Sept. 26

Eric Treida, 61, of Elmhurst, was charged with retail theft at a store in the 100 block of E. Schiller at 6:50 p.m. According to police, the suspect was seen taking merchandise. Police said officers located Treida as he was leaving

the scene.

A suspect was observed taking merchandise without paying at a pharmacy in the 100 block of N. Palmer at 11:22 a.m.

A suspect was seen taking merchandise from a store in the 100 block of E. Schiller at 6:27 p.m. before leaving the scene.

A suspect was observed taking merchandise without paying at a pharmacy in the 100 block of W. North at 11:55 a.m. The incident was recorded on security video.

Aug. 28-Sept. 24

A victim in the 200 block of E. Butterfield reports an unknown suspect removed three envelopes containing cash from his apartment sometime between the above dates.

Sept. 23

A complainant at a store in the 100 block of E. Schiller reported that three unknown suspects entered the store, filled two carts with miscellaneous groceries, paid for only a few items, and bagged the rest without paying.

Sept. 20

Following a retail theft investigation, it was learned that an unnamed suspect was at a local store on Sept. 20 at around 8:20 p.m. at which time he committed another retail theft.

Warrant arrest

Sept. 30

Police said an officer responded to the 300 block of W. Butterfield at 2 p.m. to take Javier Hurtado, 46, of Naperville, into custody on a no bond warrant out of Naperville.

Sept. 27

Police said a victim in the 300 block of W. Commonwealth reported at 10:08 a.m. that a suspect was in Eldridge Park and masturbating underneath his clothing. A name check on the suspect, Dajon Hamlin, 38, of Glen Ellyn, revealed he was wanted on warrant by the DuPage County Sheriff’s office. Hamlin was charged with disorderly conduct and resisting/ obstructing a police officer, and transported to the DuPage County Jail on the warrant. Hamlin was also issued a no trespass notice for all Elmhurst Park District property.

Sex trafficker sentenced to 27 years in federal prison

A Joliet man has been sentenced to 27 years in federal prison for sex trafficking and facilitating the sex trafficking of multiple women.

Kendall Guyton admitted in a plea agreement that he recruited three women to engage in commercial sex acts from 2017 to 2020.

Guyton admitted that he advertised commercial sex acts online and arranged for the victims to meet individuals in various locations in the Chicago area. He provided the victims with illicit drugs, including heroin or cocaine, and often beat his victims to force them to comply with his demands.

At sentencing, the government presented evidence that Guyton facilitated the trafficking of at least five other victims, including a minor, by beating and sexually assaulting them.

Guyton, 29, pleaded guilty last year to one count of sex trafficking by force, fraud, and coercion. U.S. District Judge Sara L. Ellis imposed the 27-year sentence on Thursday during a hearing in federal court in Chicago.

A co-defendant, Gregory Ingram, 45, of Richton Park, also pleaded guilty to his role in the trafficking of multiple victims, including a minor whom he invited to live in his home while he trafficked her. Ingram controlled the

14-year-old victim using drugs and threats of harm. Judge Ellis in May sentenced Ingram to 20 years in federal prison.

The sentences were announced by Morris Pasqual, Acting United States Attorney for the Northern District of Illinois, and Douglas S. DePodesta, Special Agent-in-Charge of the Chicago Field Office of the FBI.

Valuable assistance was provided by the Carol Stream Police Department, the Lisle Police Department, the Will County Sheriff’s Office, the Joliet Police Department, the Richton Park Police Department, and the Downers Grove Police Department.

“[The] defendant’s crimes were incredibly serious and had long-lasting impacts on his victims,” Assistant U.S. Attorneys Christine M. O’Neill and Prashant Kolluri argued in the government’s sentencing memorandum in Guyton’s case. “[The] defendant knew these women were vulnerable and he preyed upon these vulnerabilities.”

If you believe you are a victim of sexual exploitation, you are encouraged to contact the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children by calling 1-800-843-5678 or logging on to http://www.missingkids.com

Court grants state’s motion to detain pre-trial man charged with supplying fatal dose of fentanyl

DuPage County DuPage County

State’s Attorney

Robert Berlin and West Chicago Chief of Police

Habile Jacob

Colin Fleury announced last week that Judge Joshua Dieden granted the State’s motion to detain pre-trial a West Chicago man charged with supplying fentanyl to a West Chicago woman resulting in her fatal overdose.

Habile Jacob, 26, appeared at First Appearance Court and is charged with one count of drug induced homicide (Class X felony) and one count of delivery of a controlled substance—fentanyl (Class 2 felony).

On June 25 at approximately 8:24

p.m., West Chicago police officers responded to a call in the 400 block of W. Washington St. for a call of a female who was unresponsive. Upon entering the residence, officers observed a female lying unresponsive in a bed. The woman was pronounced dead at 8:35 p.m. When processing the residence, officers located a blue powdery substance, later identified as fentanyl, on a coffee table near the kitchen area.

Following an investigation into the death, it is alleged that on June 24 at approximately 10:30 p.m., a male, later identified as Jacob, went to the victim’s residence and supplied her with a fatal dose of fentanyl. It is further alleged that the victim ingested the fatal dose of fentanyl Jacob supplied to her. On Oct. 1, West Chicago police officers arrested Jacob.

According to the pathology report, the victim died of a combination of fentanyl and 7-aminoclonazepam toxicity. The victim had been prescribed 7-aminoclonazepam.

“The tragic death of the victim in this case is yet another terrible reminder of the extreme danger illegal narcotics, particularly fentanyl, continue to be in our communities,” Berlin said. “According to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention, fentanyl is up to fifty times stronger than heroin and one hundred times stronger than morphine. Last year, more than 81 thousand overdose deaths were reported nationwide, with Illinois contributing 3,272 to that total.

“This senseless loss of life must stop and one way to stop it is to hold those who supply fatal doses of nar-

cotics responsible. A dealer, a friend or even a family member may think twice about supplying this poison knowing that they will be looking at a significant amount of time behind bars if they are the proven source of a fatal overdose. I offer my sincerest condolences to the victim’s family and friends as they continue their lives without the love and friendship she once provided them. I thank the West Chicago Police Department and the DuPage County Metropolitan Enforcement Group for their outstanding work in the identification and apprehension of the defendant in this case.”

“This is a tragic and senseless loss of human life,” Fleury said. “It cannot be said enough how dangerous fentanyl is. Health departments, law enforcement agencies, and the me-

dia have issued numerous warnings to the public, and they have frustratingly appeared to go unheard. So, it is worth repeating, Fentanyl is being added to street drugs to include fake prescription drugs consistently, and those who use drugs or who purchase or use what they believe to be prescription drugs that they were not prescribed or received directly from their doctor or pharmacist are taking their lives into their own hands. The work done by the investigators in this case was outstanding, and the City of West Chicago will continue to investigate overdose cases as more than just a tragedy but also as a criminal act by those involved.” Jacob’s next court appearance is scheduled for Oct. 28 for arraignment in front of Judge Brian Telander.

Giannoulias releases results of auto theft units

Grant money helped combat carjackings, vehicle and catalytic converter thefts

Statewide auto theft and carjacking prevention task force funding has led to thousands of investigations, hundreds of arrests and millions of dollars in recovered vehicles, announced Secretary of State Alexi Giannoulias who oversees the grant program.

In fiscal year 2024, the Illinois Statewide Auto Theft Task Force (ISATT) conducted 1,854 investigations and recovered 1,346 vehicles worth approximately $30 million.

ISATT assisted area agencies with another 414 vehicle recoveries at an estimated worth of nearly $9 million and produced 545 auto theft-related criminal charges, 385 of which were felonies. ISATT also conducted 240 audits of businesses in the auto industry, including scrap processors and body shops, resulting in 2,247 violations and 106 referrals to Secretary of State Police for further investigation.

Meanwhile, the Chicago Major Auto Thefts Investigations Unit (CMATI) conducted 1,130 investigations, resulting in 440 arrests and the recovery of 1,391 vehicles worth approximately $28 million during the past fiscal year. The Expressway Safety Enforcement Group (ESEG) used air operations 127 times and assisted other agencies in their efforts 110 times.

“For many of us, our vehicle serves as a lifeline. We depend on it for work, running errands, shuttling our kids to activities and visiting loved ones,” said Giannoulias, whose office administers the grants. “To have it stolen can have serious consequences for families and upend their lives. These task forces play a critical role by ensuring local, state and federal law enforcement officers work together to address these crimes.”

“The Illinois State Police Expressway Safety Enforcement Group utilizes patrol, investigations, license plate readers, air operations, and other assets to increase stolen vehicle

recoveries and apprehend suspects committing hijackings,” said Illinois State Police Director Brendan F. Kelly. “This funding allows ISP to continue committing resources necessary to pursue violent offenders and reduce violence.”

“This funding will strengthen our community by equipping the city’s auto theft task force with the tools and resources they need to investigate and address the rising number of carjackings in Chicago,” said state Sen. Lakesia Collins (5th District—

Chicago). “Car theft can seriously impact the livelihood of residents and their travel needs, costing thousands in damages to not only the victim but also to our communities. With this funding we will continue to invest in proactive measures to address carjackings in the Chicago area and ensure our task forces involved are equipped with what they need to help.”

“These grants will help us continue our efforts to prevent these terrible crimes from occurring and provide

our law enforcement the funding they need,” said state Rep. Yolonda Morris (9th District—Chicago). “As someone who has recently experienced the heartbreak of auto theft, I understand all too well the fear and frustration that comes with it. No one should have to live in fear that their vehicle will be stolen or that they will face such a violation of their personal space. We must work together to create a safer community for all.”

The Illinois Vehicle Hijacking and Motor Vehicle Theft Prevention

and Insurance Verification Council, which Giannoulias’ office oversees, distributed the grants. ISATT received $3.4 million, CMATI received $1.4 million and ESEG received $675,000.

Law enforcement agencies can use the funding for salaries and benefits for personnel assigned to vehicle theft prevention units, vehicles, computers, vehicle tracking devices, GPS data, evidence kits, body cameras and drones for aerial vehicle searches.

ViewpOint

Slices of life

Truth be told

“The truth will set you free.”

We’ve all heard this iconic sentence, but what does it mean, really? More importantly, what exactly is the truth?

That depends on whom you are asking.

Because I’ve come to believe that each of us has our own truth. What is my truth, with a capital T, may not be yours, in fact it probably isn’t. I know it isn’t.

To complicate matters, your truth today may differ from your truth tomorrow, as will mine because we are ever-changing, ever-evolving beings. It’s a wonder we ever come to a consensus on anything—even within our own minds.

Truth, as I see it, is often fluid, flowing like a river through our lifetime. And that river changes in direction. The current slows to a trickle and then roars to a rapids. And we, my friends, are firmly planted on an inner tube, just along for the ride.

But we don’t always see it this way. We see the truth as THE TRUTH—unchanging and unwavering.

Sometimes it is. Hurting children is wrong. That is the truth. Hurting yourself is wrong. That is the truth. Destroying the dreams or aspirations of another person Is wrong. That is the truth. Hating someone simply because they check a box that you yourself do not check is wrong. That is the truth.

When stated this way, the truth seems so simple. But it’s far from that. The truth is one of the most complex concepts up for our consideration. It’s right up there with evil, heaven, God and Bigfoot. Truth—does it really exist?

I think on some level, yes. In each moment, yes.

But much of truth ends up being fluid. What was true for me in kindergarten is no longer so by middle school. Circumstances change. Perspectives change. We change. Life changes. And with it, so does “truth.”

Is it warm outside? It depends upon whom you ask. 70 degrees Fahrenheit might be warm for me, but you could very well require at

By JILL PERTLER Columnist

least 80. Someone else might be squarely in the middle at 75, but for each of us, it’s our truth.

Parenthood is a great conundrum of truths, but I think we all (or mostly all) could agree that you are a different parent with child number four as compared to child number one. Each child knows his or her own truths about your parenting, and you also have your own set of truths about parenting at each stage - or each child.

Every day changes us, and in that changes our truth, or the way we navigate the world. This can create ramifications - both small and huge. Think about divorce. Two people who want nothing more than to be divided at one point in time wanted nothing more than to be united as one at another. Which one is the truth?

They both are. Therein lies the conundrum of the concept. Truth can be two completely different things, depending on time, circumstance and the people observing it—living it.

Talk about chaos. Makes you wonder how we make sense of anything. Or better put, how we ascertain the truth in anything, not just from our own perspective, but the truth as viewed by the person sitting next to us.

It’s one of the great mysteries of life. And it can be beautiful, if you let it be. Not knowing the truth about the absence or the lack of any real truth causes you to simply trust. And trust, as it turns out, is pretty beautiful and life-changing. Because, unlike the truth, trust is unwavering and steadfast.

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.

Under my father’s fedora

Yes, it’s time …

When my good friend Tom Marcucci decided not to seek reelection to his mayoral seat after 16 years, he made the announcement saying, “It’s time.”

I’ve done some soul-searching lately and, my friends and my valued readers—it’s time.

It’s time to bid farewell to my beloved newspaper and the wonderful City I have had the sincere privilege of covering for the last 22 years. It’s time to retire. My last day will be Oct. 31 which is also the date of my last issue. I have offered to cover the Veterans Day ceremony. I have a soft spot in my heart for the veterans.

I may also take photos at the Turkey Trot, but that will be my last event.

It’s hard to believe that 22 years ago, my long-time friend and business associate I knew through the Chamber of Commerce and the ECAF Board, Pete Cruger and I met at a coffee shop in Glen Ellyn where he told me he was starting a new publication in Elmhurst called the Independent. In the early days when people weren’t quite sure of us yet, we were often desperately trying to find news and photos. John Quigley at the Chamber was a big help at that time because he almost always had a photo or story from some recent event or meeting or something that would give us news to publish.

Publishing photo spreads of major community events was my idea.

By DEE LONGFELLOW Editor

The very first event I attended as a photographer was the opening of the first phase of the newly renovated York High School. District 205 School Board then-president Cathy Jordan was wearing a beautiful full-length silvery-blue evening gown. Then-superintendent Dr. Joel Morris was in attendance and the York students provided musical entertainment and acted as guides for tours of the school. The page one photo of our first issue featured three young ladies who were at that time juniors or seniors, each smiling with a mouthful of braces (wonder where they are now).

Since then, my life has been Christmas tree-lightings—at Spring Road, Wilder Park, downtown, and at the hospital—events at the University, dinner dances, golf outings, art openings, Chamber events, Egg Hunts, Relay for Life, parades and ceremonies of Memorial Day, Veterans Day and 4th of July; Art in Wilder Park, the Heritage Foundation’s Craft Beer Fest, the now-defunct Hospital Board of Governors dinner, at which I always got to interview someone “famous”—Dick Portillo, Mike

Ditka, Bill Kurtis, Ron Santo, many others. Ever since that fateful day in 2001, we haven’t missed a 9/11 ceremony, usually at the south firehouse. In December, the camera led to the Elmhurst public works building where scads of volunteers came out to distribute food to District 205 needy families led by the Elmhurst Community Concerns Association.

Our photo captions almost always include the event and the date, so you can figure out when and what the event was. That’s because we just knew people would cut those stories and photos out and put them in a scrapbook to be brought out years later when the kids were in their 40s or 50s.

We’ve been blessed to have outstanding sports writers and photographers. It’s fun to hear that student athletes rush home from school on Thursdays to see if their picture is in the paper.

And perhaps the biggest photo op of the year is the St. Patrick’s Day parade, featuring our own Elmhurst Armpit Orchestra.

A message to my EAO friends, if it matters …

Props must indeed be given to my friends in the Elmhurst Armpit Orchestra. For it was my deepest honor to serve as Parade Queen in 2023. I’d never been Queen of anything before. See TIME, Page 9

State’s Attorney’s Office welcomes newest member

DuPage County State’s Attorney Robert Berlin and his entire office warmly welcomed its newest team member, Duo Dog “Crew”, to the office.

DuPage County Clerk of the Circuit Court Candice Adams administered Crew’s oath of office at his official swearing in ceremony in the State’s Attorney’s Office attended by dozens of Crew’s newest co-workers.

Following the ceremony, Crew, a 20-month-old Labrador Retriever, took some time before getting to work to introduce himself to his fellow employees and even posed for several photographs.

“We are all very excited and grateful to welcome Crew to our team,” Belin said. “While I’m sure Crew will be eager to assist wherever necessary, his main objective will be to provide comfort, compassion and companionship to children as they turn to the Children’s Advocacy Center for protection

and justice. Additionally, Crew’s daily presence in our office will undoubtedly improve morale and support our staff in coping with the daily stresses and pressures associated with promoting public safety and achieving our mission of seeking justice for the people of DuPage County.”

Crew came to the State’s Attorney’s Office courtesy of Duo Dogs, Inc., a national nonprofit organization based in St. Louis that trains and connects dogs with people to cultivate positive change in individuals, families and communities.

Specifically, Crew is a facility dog specially trained and placed according to his natural abilities, interests and temperament, to work with trained handlers within the Office for the benefit of vulnerable populations served by the State’s Attorney’s Office.

“I am 100 percent committed to lessening the trauma experienced by child victims and witnesses to violent crime

• Time (Continued from page 8)

As a publicity stunt, I led a campaign to be crowned Parade Queen two years in a row—but alas, 2023 was to be my one and only year. I never did find out who was crowned Queen of the 2024 parade—we never received a press release or a photo of that person and, to this day, we don’t know who she was. A couple of times, I meant to ask but never got around to it.

Then suddenly one day, it hit me. It doesn’t matter. Whomever is the Queen doesn’t matter. It’s a silly goofy thing the EAO does, kind of funny but inconsequential. They don’t bother to let the newspaper know because it doesn’t matter. It doesn’t matter who was crowned in 2024. I wanted to do it two years in a row because—well, you can

no doubt guess by now—I knew it would be my last parade, since I’m retiring. But I couldn’t do it because it didn’t matter. A new Queen needed to be chosen to whom it wouldn’t matter.

So to the guys in the EAO, I apologize for trying to make it matter. It shouldn’t have mattered. I shouldn’t have tried to make it matter. But you should all know … It mattered to me.

And to everyone in the City of Elmhurst, you have all mattered to me very very much and I thank you for the honor of publishing your news. It’s been said that when you love your job, you never really go to worked—and I haven’t worked in 22 years.

Farewell, dear readers … I (and Dad’s fedora) will miss you all.

as they find themselves, through no fault of their own, thrust into the scary and intimidating world of the criminal justice system,” Berlin continued. “I

am confident that Crew will prove to be an extraordinary ambassador of our office and provide the love, comfort and support necessary to help ease the

stress and provide a calming presence to children and their families under extremely traumatic and emotionally draining circumstances.”

County State’s Attorney Robert Berlin and staff

torney’s Office welcome Crew, a 20-month-old Labrador Retriever specially

ing to his natural abilities, interests and temperament, to work with trained handlers within the office for the benefit of vulnerable populations served by the State’s Attorney’s Office.

NOTICE TO OUR READERS

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.

SUBMITTED PHOTO Elmhurst Indepewndent

DuPage

members at the DuPage County State’s At-

trained and placed accord-

Elmhurst Calendar

Saturday, Oct. 12

Artist talk with Rafael Blanco

Starting at 1 p.m. at the Elmhurst Art Museum, hear Blanco reflect on the murals he has reimagined for this exhibition, and his experiences as an artist creating public murals across the United States. Blanco sees rejection as integral to life’s experiences, especially the life of an artist. He will share insights into how he transforms rejection into success that empowers him as an artist to imagine new visions for his work. For more information, call 630-834-0202 or visit elmhurstartmuseum.org.

Tuesday, Oct. 15

GreenMan Theatre presents Spooky Stories. From 7-8:30 p.m. at the Elmhurst Public Library, hear

a collection of spine-chilling stories in a reader’s theater performance from GreenMan Theatre. The event is free—live in-person and on Zoom. Registration is required. For more information, call 630-279-8696 or email: reference@elmlib.org

Thursday, Oct. 17

St. Olaf College Orchestra at York High School. The St. Olaf Orchestra will perform at Merle E. Baker Auditorium starting at 7:30 p.m. during its 2024 Fall Tour. The St. Olaf Orchestra is a full symphony orchestra rich in international artistry and tradition and known for its enthusiastic and passionate performances. This year’s program includes Dvořák’s Symphony No. 8, along with Anna Clyne’s Restless Oceans, “Morning Music”

from Peer Gynt by Edvard Grieg, and student soloists. Tickets are $10 and free for students, and are available at stolaf.edu/tickets/orchestra or by calling 800-363-5487.

Friday, Oct. 18

“Young Frankenstein” film screening. Starting at 2 p.m. at the Elmhurst Public Library and presented by the Elmhurst History Museum, view this 1974 classic spoof comedy about Dr. Frederick Frankenstein and his quest to reanimate the dead. Starring Gene Wilder, Madeline Kahn, Peter Boyle, and Cloris Leachman, the film is rated PG and runs 1 hour and 46 minutes. Admission: Free. For more information, call 630-8331457 or email: ehmprograms@elmhurst.org

Worship Services Directory

779 S. York Street

Elmhurst, IL

630-834 -6700 www.visitationparish.org

Saturday, Oct. 19

“Stories Behind the Song”: A night with Nashville songwriters From 6-10 p.m. at the Elmhurst American Legion THB Post 187, 310 W. Butterfield Road, the American Legion Post is hosting the fifth annual Nashville Songwriters “Stories Behind the Songs” event. The vvent will feature five Nashville songwriting legends. Frank Myers, Brett Jones, Billy Montana, Jeff Dayton and Sarah Darling. There will be an open bar, and food provided by Roberto’s and Golden Boy BBQ. Prices: $125 in advance; $150 at the door. For more information, call 630-833-7800 or visit: https:// elmhurst-american-legion.ticketleap. com

BOO-tiful Saturday. From 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. in downtown Elmhurst, Get ready for an exciting BOO-tiful Saturday for an amazing trick-or-treating experience. Enjoy fantastic music and engaging activi-

ties at the City Centre Plaza at York/ Schiller and the North York Plaza at 254 N. York. Take advantage of free parking in all five parking decks. Don’t miss out on this spooktacular event—remember to bring your treat bags! For more information, visit: https://elmhurstcitycentre. com/events/boo-tiful.

Elmhurst Farmers Market Recurring weekly on Wednesdays through Oct. 30 from 7 a.m.-1 p.m. on Vallette, just east of York, an Elmhurst community jewel offering a wide variety of farmers, vendors, and more with free parking. For more information, email: info@elmhurstfarmersmarket.com

Elmhurst History Museum Info: elmhursthistory.org.

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

We want to print your news! Is your church hosting a special event? Community Calendar listings are free! Send details to

St. Timothy Evangelical

Lutheran Church

547 N. Main St., Lombard, IL 60148

630-627-2435

Sunday Worship at 10:15 am

Lent and Easter Services at 7 p.m.

Sunday School & Bible Study 9 am

Fall for History at the DuPage County Historical Museum

“The Crucial Hours”

Ladies Bible Fellowship Mondays at 6:30 pm

Second Lenten Service March 9, 2022

Wednesday Service at 7pm

Rev. David Ernest “Satan Has Asked to Sift All of You” Jerusalem Lutheran, Morton Grove Matthew 27:15-26

Adult Bible Study Wednesdays after Service Saturday, October 26, Game Night at 4 pm

Third Lenten Service March 16, 2022

Everyone is Welcome!

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

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

Fourth Lenten Service March 23, 2022

Rev. Jonathan Bergemann “I Will Keep the Passover” Good Shepherd, Downers Grove Matthew 26:18

Weekend Masses:

The DuPage County Historical Museum, located in historic downtown Wheaton, will host a bounty of special events in October and November, ranging from a look at eyebrow-raising presidential campaigns throughout U.S. history to a nostalgia-rich night focused on iconic DuPage diners.

All events take place at the DuPage County Historical Museum, located at 102 E. Wesley St. in Wheaton. Admission is free, but advance registration is requested. Sign up at dupagemuseum.org/calendar/.

Check out the lineup:

hart as she attempts a flight around the world in 1937. Plus, join the DuPage County Historical Society’s celebration of historical organizations marking 100 years in operation.

Fifth Lenten Service March 30, 2022

Rev. Tom Nicholson “They Bound Him” Resurrection, Aurora John 18:12

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

Sixth Lenten Service April 6, 2022

Rev. Phil Schupmann “The Semblance of Legality” Resurrection, Aurora Luke 22:66

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

Confessions: Saturday: 3-3:45PM

Maundy Thursday Communion 7 p.m., April 14

Good Friday Tenebrae 7 p.m., April 15

Saturday, Oct. 12, 1-2:30 p.m.— Mudslinging, Muckraking, and Apple Pie: Presidential Campaigns, the Great American Pastime. Think campaigns are cutthroat now? Learn about the mudslinging and muckraking of past presidential contests, including Jefferson vs. Adams in 1800, Jackson vs. Adams in 1828 and Lincoln vs. Douglas in 1860.

Easter Sunrise 6:30 a.m., April 17

Adoration:

Easter Breakfast 8 a.m., April 17

Easter Festival 10:15 a.m., April 17

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

Be a part of the Worship Services Directory for as low as $20 per week

Call Brenda at 630-834-4450 or Betty at 630-627-7010

Saturday, Oct. 19, 1-3 p.m.— Craft Workshop: High School Memories. Complementing the Museum’s “Extracurricular: High School Tradition and Culture in DuPage” special exhibit, this workshop offers the chance to decorate a homemade graduation cap and create a tassel or cords.

Saturday, Oct. 26, 1-2:30 p.m.—

Leslie Goddard’s Amelia Earhart and DuPage County Historical Society Centennial Awards. Hear from historian and author Leslie Goddard performing as Amelia Ear-

Monday, Nov. 11, 7-8 p.m.— Hometown Heroes of the 745th Celebrate Veterans Day with U.S. Army Armor Officer (retired) Steve Fixler, a volunteer at the First Division Museum at Cantigny Park, as he shares the history of the 745th independent tank battalion that supported the First Infantry Division during World War II. Thursday, Nov. 14, 7-8 p.m.— Iconic DuPage Diners and Hangouts. Before there was Five Guys, there were these guys: Hear from the families behind legendary local hangouts Cock Robin, Scooby’s and Al’s Pizza. Plus, chew on some DuPage dining trivia with culinary historian Bruce Kraig. Saturday, Nov. 16, 1:30-3:30 p.m.—Walking the Tracks with DPSME. Train and rail buffs, walk the (model) tracks with the DuPage Society of Model Engineers! Get an up-close look at the Museum’s HO Model Train exhibit and learn more about the history of model railroading in this unique National Model Railroad Month event. The museum is free and open to the public Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. and on weekends from noon to 4 p.m. Details about these special events and more can be found at dupagemuseum.org

Elmhurst ranked among the top 50 greenest public fleets in North America

The City of Elmhurst is proud to announce that it has been ranked 43rd in the 2024 Green Fleet Awards by the National Association of Fleet Administrators (NAFA). This recognition honors Elmhurst’s ongoing commitment to sustainability and innovation in fleet management, placing the city among the top 50 greenest public fleets in North America.

Now in its 17th year, the Green Fleet Awards program recognizes municipalities and organizations that implement groundbreaking and inventive programs aimed at enhancing fleet sustainability and reducing environmental impact.

The 2024 competition evaluated a variety of factors, including alternative fuel usage, fleet composition, and the implementation of green technologies, along with other sustainability-focused initiatives.

“Elmhurst’s position as a leader in this space reflects its dedication to a greener future,” noted a recent statement from the city. “By incorporating cleaner vehicles and adopting energy-efficient technologies, the city’s fleet is helping to reduce emissions and conserve resources.”

Stan Balicki, Director of Public Works for the City of Elmhurst, commented on the award, stating, “This recognition is a testament to the hard work and innovation that our team has put into reducing the environmental impact of our fleet. We are committed to finding new ways to improve efficiency while contributing to the city’s overall sustainability goals.”

The Green Fleet Award winners were announced during the Sustainable Fleet Technology Conference & Expo in Durham, North Carolina. Elmhurst’s fleet was recognized for its proactive approach to alternative fuel use, energy-saving technologies, and emissions reduction efforts.

“As the city continues to enhance its sustainability efforts, recognition from organizations like NAFA further motivates Elmhurst to pursue innovative and environmentally-friendly practices,” the city’s statement related.

“I want to congratulate our Public Works team for this remarkable achievement,” added Elmhurst Mayor Scott Levin. “Being named

one of the top 50 greenest public fleets in North America highlights Elmhurst’s commitment to sustainability and innovation. Well done to everyone involved in making our city a leader in green practices.”

To learn more about the Green Fleet Awards and view the full list of winners, visit https:// www.nafa.org/awards/green-fleet-awards/.

The Green Fleet Awards, presented by the NAFA Fleet Management Association, recognize fleets that perform at the highest levels of sustainability. The program honors both government and commercial fleets that have developed strategies to reduce their environmental impact while maintaining peak operational performance.

Tent lands on top of roof

The Elmhurst fire and police departments responded to the 800 block of Hillside Avenue on Friday afternoon, Sept. 27, for what was reported to be a hazardous condition. They found a collapsed gazebo tent, which had been secured in the ground in the back yard of a homeowner, on the roof of the house. Apparently, winds that day caused the tent to dislodge and blow onto the top of the roof. (Wind gusts reached 31 mph that day.) Crews from Fire Station #2 removed the tent and checked the roof for any damage. No damage to the roof was found.

SUBMITTED PHOTOS BY L. LANTZ Elmhurst Independent

Disney leadership expert to present ‘You Can Create Disney Magic Too’ at Elmhurst University

Earlier this fall, Elmhurst University’s School of Business launched the Institute for Professional and Community Engagement (IPCE), a resource hub that offers opportunities for students to develop professionally and give back to society.

For its inaugural event, IPCE will host Lee Cockerell, former executive vice president of operations for Walt Disney World Resort, on Thursday, Oct. 17. Cockerell will participate in a full day of events for students, small-business owners and members

of the business and broader communities.

That evening, Cockerell will give his keynote lecture, “You Can Create Disney Magic Too,” where he will share the secret sauce behind building Disney World into an iconic brand.

Cockerell is one of the most admired leaders in the hospitality and entertainment business, and renowned for his distinguished customer service training. As the senior operating executive for 10 years at

one of the most successful, storied brands in the world, Cockerell led a team of 40,000 Disney cast members and was responsible for the operations of 20 resort hotels, four theme parks, two water parks, a shopping and entertainment village, and a sports and recreation complex. He has a lot to say about what it means to be a great leader, how culture affects the customer experience, and the importance of building the right management team.

During his visit to Elmhurst Uni-

versity, Cockerell will conduct a Small Business Accelerator Workshop before giving his keynote address. Tickets are available to both of these events and more: Small Business Accelerator Workshop

Thursday, Oct. 17, 2:30-4 p.m.

Wilder Mansion, 211 S. Prospect Ave., Elmhurst

Admission is $200(Includes admission to the workshop, a VIP reception and the keynote.)

-Keynote: “You Can Create Disney Magic Too”

Thursday, Oct. 17, 7-8:30 p.m.

Frick Center, Founders Lounge, 190 S. Prospect Ave., Elmhurst

Admission is $125

Tickets to one or both events are available at bit.ly/4ebwLnP and el-

mhurst.edu/cultural. Educators and students should email kim.schmelzer@elmhurst.edu for information about discounted tickets. Proceeds benefit the Institute for Professional and Community Engagement and Elmhurst University students.

About

IPCE

The Institute for Professional and Community Engagement brings students to the intersection of opportunity and service. IPCE is dedicated to fostering a culture of lifelong learning, community outreach and professional growth among students by offering a range of opportunities for students to develop new skills, gain hands-on experience and collaborate with industry and non-profit professionals.

Staying safe

Officer Carillo of the Elmhurst Police Department recently met with children and their parents at the Elmhurst Park District’s Safety Town, 511 S. York St., to teach them about traffic rules and how to cross the street safely.

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

SUBMITTED PHOTO Elmhurst Independent

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE EIGHTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT

DU PAGE COUNTY, ILLINOIS

PUBLICATION NOTICE OF COURT

DATE FOR REQUEST FOR NAME CHANGE

Request of:

Alexandra Marie Wojciechowski Case Number 2024MR000583

There will be a court date on my Request to change my name from Alexandra Marie Wojciechowski to the new name of Alexandra Marie Sundstrom. The court date will be held: 11/15/2024 at 9:00 a.m at 505 N. County Farm Road, Wheaton, IL in Courtroom 2007.

/s/ Alexandra Marie Wojciechowski

Dated SEPTEMBER 18, 2024

Candice Adams Clerk of the Circuit Court 10587-946746

(Published in The Elmhurst Independent Oct. 3, 10 & 17, 2024 461893

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE EIGHTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT

DU PAGE COUNTY, ILLINOIS

PUBLICATION NOTICE OF COURT

DATE FOR REQUEST FOR NAME CHANGE

Request of: Theresa Carmella Ragano Case Number 2024MR000605

There will be a court date on my Request to change my name from Theresa Carmella Ragano to the new name of Carmella Theresa Ragano. The court date will be held: NOVEMBER 25, 2024 at 9:00 at 505 N. County Farm Road, Wheaton, IL in Courtroom 2005.

/s/ Theresa Carmella Ragano

Dated SEPTEMBER 30, 2024

Candice Adams

Clerk of the Circuit Court 10587-947001

(Published in The Elmhurst Independent Oct, 10, 17 & 24, 2024) 462564

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING ZONING AND PLANNING COMMISSION/ZONING BOARD OF APPEALS CASE NUMBER 24 P 14

Request for Amended Conditional Use Permit for a Pylon Sign and Variations

Notice is hereby given that the Elmhurst Zoning and Planning Commission/Zoning Board of Appeals will hold a public hearing on Tuesday, October 29, 2024, at 7:00 p.m., in the Elmhurst City Hall, 209 N. York Street, Elmhurst, Illinois. The purpose of this hearing is to consider a request by Neema Bayran (Pain Center of Illinois), for an amended Conditional Use Permit for an Off-site Directional Pylon Sign and Sign Variations at the property commonly known as 310 W. Butterfield Road in Elmhurst, Illinois (American Legion, Robert Blewett, President of Corporation) for the purpose of constructing an off-site directional pylon sign on property owned by the American Legion for the benefit of adjacent property located at 300 W. Butterfield Road.

Following is a legal description of the subject property:

LOT 1 IN THE RENAISSANCE DEVELOPMENT GROUP RESUBDIVISION OF PART OF THE SOUTHEAST QUARTER OF SECTION 14, TOWNSHIP 39 NORTH,

LEGAL NOTICES

RANGE 11, EAST OF THE THIRD PRINCIPAL MERIDIAN, ACCORDING TO THE PLAT THEREOF RECORDED AUGUST 21, 1987 AS DOCUMENT R87125324 AND CERTIFICATE OF CORRECTION FILED NOVEMBER 30, 1987 AS DOCUMENT NO. R87-168750 IN DUPAGE COUNTY, ILLINOIS.

PIN: 06-14-409-058 (COMMONLY KNOWN AS 310 W. BUTTERFIELD ROAD)

PARCEL 1

LOT 3 IN THE RENAISSANCE DEVELOPMENT GROUP RESUBDIVISION OF PART OF THE SOUTH HALF OF SECTION 14, TOWNSHIP 39 NORTH, RANGE 11, EAST OF THE THIRD PRINCIPAL MERIDIAN, ACCORDING TO THE PLAT THEREOF RECORDED AUGUST 21, 1987 AS DOCUMENT R87-125324 AND CERTIFICATE OF CORRECTION RECORDED NOVEMBER 30, 1987 AS DOCUMENT R87-168750, IN DUPAGE COUNTY, ILLINOIS. EXCEPT THAT PART OF SAID LOT 3 MORE PARTICULARLY DESCRIBED AS FOLLOWS: COMMENCING AT THE NORTHEAST CORNER OF LOT 3 OF THE AFORESAID RESUBDIVISION AND RUNNING ALONG THE EASTERLY LINE OF SAID LOT 3, HAVING A BEARING OF SOUTH 14 DEGREES 25 MINUTES 53 SECONDS EAST A DISTANCE OF 614.99 FEET TO THE POINT OF BEGINNING; THENCE CONTINUING ALONG SAID THE EASTERLY LINE OF LOT 3 HAVING A BEARING OF SOUTH 14 DEGREES 25 MINUTES 53 SECONDS EAST A DISTANCE OF 217.26 FEET TO THE SOUTHEAST CORNER OF SAID LOT 3; THENCE ALONG THE SOUTH LINE OF LOT 3 HAVING A BEARING OF NORTH 89 DEGREES 16 MINUTES 27 SECONDS WEST A DISTANCE OF 220.68 FEET BEING THE SOUTHWEST CORNER OF SAID LOT 3; THENCE ALONG THE WESTERLY LINE OF SAID LOT 3 AND THE EASTERLY LINE OF LOT 2 IN THE AFOREMENTIONED RENAISSANCE DEVELOPMENT GROUP RESUDBIVISION HAVING A BEARING OF NORTH 21 DEGREES 41 MINUTES 00 SECONDS WEST A DISTANCE OF 76.02 FEET TO A POINT ON A MEANDER LINE; THENCE ALONG SAID MEANDER LINE BEARING SOUTH 55 DEGREES 23 MINUTES 51 SECONDS EAST A DISTANCE OF 12.69 FEET TO A POINT ON THE AFORESAID WESTERLY LINE OF SAID LOT 3; THENCE CONTINUING ALONG THE WESTERLY LINE OF LOT 3 AND THE EASTERLY LINE OF LOT 2 AFORESAID HAVING A BEARING OF NORTH 14 DEGREES 25 MINUTES 53 SECONDS WEST, SAID BEARING LINE BEING PARALLEL WITH THE EASTERLY LINE OF SAID LOT 3 A DISTANCE OF 93.73 FEET TO A POINT; THENCE ALONG A DIVISION LINE BEARING NORTH 75 DEGREES 34 MINUTES 07 SECONDS EAST A DISTANCE OF 214.28 FEET TO THE PLACE OF BEGINNING.

PIN: 06-14-409-062 (COMMONLY KNOWN AS 300 W. BUTTERFIELD ROAD)

The common street addresses are 300 and 310 W. Butterfield Road, Elmhurst, IL. The subject properties are located within the C3 General Commercial District.

If you have any questions regarding this

case, please contact the Community Development Department at 630-530-3121.

Any person who has a disability requiring a reasonable accommodation to participate in this meeting, should contact Emily Palm, ADA Compliance Officer, Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., City of Elmhurst, 209 N. York Street, Elmhurst, IL 60126, call 630-530-3770 or email HR@elmhurst.org within a reasonable time before the meeting. Please provide as much notice as possible for sign language interpreting requests.

Eileen Franz, City Planner

(Published in The Elmhurst Independent Oct. 10, 2024) 462568

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING

ZONING AND PLANNING COMMISSION/ZONING BOARD OF APPEALS

CASE NUMBER 24 P 16

Request for Conditional Use Permit for Planned Unit Development with Site Development Allowances and Plat of Subdivision

Notice is hereby given that the Elmhurst Zoning and Planning Commission/Zoning Board of Appeals will hold a public hearing on Tuesday, October 29, 2024, at 7:00 p.m., in the Elmhurst City Hall, 209 N. York Street, Elmhurst, Illinois. The purpose of this hearing is to consider a request by Matthew Toepper, FGM Architects, on behalf of Amy Zaher, Salt Creek District 48 Superintendent, for a Conditional Use Permit for a Final Planned Unit Development with Site Development Allowances pursuant to Sections 22.26 and 22.31 of the Elmhurst Zoning Ordinance and plat of subdivision to consolidate 3 parcels into 1 at the properties commonly known as 980 & 994 S. Riverside Drive, Elmhurst, Illinois for the purpose of constructing an addition to the existing Salt Creek School and adding a parking lot on newly acquired property.

Following is a legal description of the subject property:

PARCEL1: THE WEST 325 FEET OF THE NORTH 218.7 FEET OF LOT 6 IN PARK FARMS, BEING A SUBDIVISION OF PART OF SECTIONS 14 AND 15, TOWNSHIP 39 NORTH, RANGE 11, EAST OF THE THIRD PRINCIPAL MERIDIAN, IN DUPAGE COUTY, ILLINOIS.

PARCEL 2: THE SOUTH 157 FEET OF LOT 10 IN PARK FARMS, A SUBDIVISION IN SECTIONS 14 AND 15, TOWNSHIP 39 NORTH, RANGE 11, EAST OF THE THIRD PRINCIPAL MERIDIAN, IN DUPAGE COUNTY, ILLINOIS.

PARCEL 3: THE SOUTH 157 FEET OF LOT 11 (EXCEPT THAT PART DEDICATED FOR TRI-STATE HIGHWAY AS PER DOCUMENT NO. 324037) IN PARK FARMS, A SUBDIVISION IN SECTIONS 14 AND 15, TOWNSHIP 39 NORTH, RANGE 11, EAST OF THE THIRD PRINCIPAL MERIDIAN, ACCORDING TO THE PLAT THEREOF RECORDE JULY 3, 1909 IN BOOK 7 OF PLATS, PAGE 33, AS DOCUMENT NO. 97528, IN DUPAGE COUNTY, ILLINOIS.

PARCEL 4: THE NORTH HALF OF VACATED HARRISON STREET LYING

SOUTH OF AND ADJACENT TO PARCELS 2 AND 3 AND THE SOUTH HALF OF VACATED HARRISON STREET LYING NORTH OF AND ADJACENT TO PARCEL 1, AS VACATED BY ORDINANCE RECORDED JANUARY 20, 1969 AS DOCUMENT NO. R69-2340, IN DUPAGE COUNTY ILLINOIS.

THAT PART OF LOT 6 IN PARK FARMS, BEING A SUBDIVISION OF PARTS OF SECTIONS 14 AND 15, TOWNSHIP 39 NORTH, RANGE 11, EAST OF THE THIRD PRINCIPAL MERIDIAN, DESCRIBED BY BEGINNING AT THE NORTHEAST CORNER OF SAID LOT, SAID NORTHEAST CORNER ALSO BEING THE INTERSECTION OF THE CENTER LINES OF HARRISON STREET AND RIVERSIDE DRIVE; AND RUNNING THENCE SOUTH IN THE CENTER OF RIVERSIDE DRIVE, 218.7 FEET, THENCE WEST PARALLEL WITH THE CENTER LINE OF HARRISON STREET, 192.36 FEET; THENCE NORTH 218.7 FEET TO A POINT IN THE CENTER LINE OF HARRISON STREET, 192.2 FEET WEST OF THE PLACE OF BEGINNING; THENCE EAST 192.2 FEET TO THE PLACE OF BEGINNING, IN DUPAGE COUNTY, ILLINOIS.

PIN: 06-15-413-001, 06-15-206-009, 0615-413-005

The common street addresses are 980 & 994 S. Riverside Drive, Elmhurst, IL. The subject properties are located within the R2 Single-Family Residence District.

If you have any questions regarding this case, please contact the Community Development Department at 630-530-3121.

Eileen Franz, City Planner

(Published in The Elmhurst Independent Oct. 10, 2024) 462566

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING ZONING AND PLANNING COMMISSION/ZONING BOARD OF APPEALS CASE NUMBER 24 P 15

Request for Conditional Use Permit

Notice is hereby given that the Elmhurst Zoning and Planning Commission/Zoning Board of Appeals will hold a public hearing on Tuesday, October 29, 2024 at 7:00 p.m., in the Elmhurst City Hall, 209 N. York Street, Elmhurst, Illinois. The purpose of this hearing is to consider a request by Walter Salek, President of Elmhurst Yorkfield Food Pantry, (tenant) for a Conditional Use Permit for client distribution from the Elmhurst Yorkfield Food Pantry Warehouse at the property commonly known as 501 W. Lake Street in Elmhurst, Illinois for the purpose of distributing food to clients from the warehouse facility.

Following is a legal description of the sub-

ject property:

LOTS 1, 2 AND THE SOUTH 115.48 FEET(AS MEASURED ALONG THE WESTERLY LINE) OF LOT 3 IN MOUREKSON INDUSTRIAL CENTER UNIT ONE, BEING A SUBDIVISION OF PARTS OF SECTIONS 26 AND 35, TOWNSHIP 40 NORTH, RANGE 11, EAST OF THE THIRD PRNCIPAL MERIDIAN, ACCORDING TO THE PLAT THEREOF RECORDED FEBRUARY 19, 1968 AS DOCUMENT R68-6176 AND CERTIFICATE OF CORRECTION RECORDED MARCH 20, 1968 AS DOCUMENT R68-10422, IN DUPAGE COUNTY ILLINOIS, EXCEPTING THEREFROM THAT PART TAKEN BY CONDEMNATION CASE 1ED00033, AS FOLLOWS:

THAT PART OF LOTS 1 AND 2 IN MOURKESON INDUSTRIAL CENTER UNIT ONE, BEING A SUBDIVISION OF PARTS OF SECTIONS 26 AND 35, TOWNSHIP 40 NORTH, RANGE 11, EAST OF THE THIRD PRNCIPAL MERIDIAN, ACCORDING TO THE PLAT THEREOF RECORDED FEBRUARY 19, 1968 AS DOCUMENT R68-6176 AND CERTIFICATE OF CORRECTION RECORDED MARCH 20, 1968 AS DOCUMENT R68-10422, IN DUPAGE COUNTY, ILLINOIS, MORE PARTICULARLY DESCRIBED AS FOLLOWS:

BEGINNING AT THE SOUTHEAST CORNER OF LOT 2; THENCE ON AN ASSUMED BEARING OF NORTH 67º 42’ 35” WEST ALONG THE SOUTH LINE OF LOTS 2 AND 1, 696.38 FEET; THENCE NORTHWESTERLY 33.86 FEET ON A CURVE TO THE RIGHT HAVING A RADIUS OF 80.00 FEET, THE CHORD OF SAID CURVE BEARS NORTH 55º 41’ 11” WEST 33.60 FEET; THENCE SOUTH 67º 42’ 35” EAST 668.59 FEET; THENCE NORTH 78º 00’ 55” EAST 53.37 FEET; THENCE NORTH 35º 26’ 27” EAST 30.02 FEET TO A POINT IN THE EAST LINE OF LOT 2; THENCE SOUTH 13º 56’ 44” WEST ALONG THE EAST LINE OF LOT 2, 67.00 FEET TO THE POINT OF BEGINNING.

PIN: 03-35-101-006, 03-35-101-004, 0335-101-005

The common street address is 501 W. Lake Street, Elmhurst, IL. The subject properties are located within the I1 Restricted Industrial District.

If you have any questions regarding this case, please contact the Community Development Department at 630-530-3121.

Eileen Franz, City Planner

(Published in The Elmhurst Independent Oct. 10, 2024) 462567

SpOrt S

York sophomore Huber shoots 1-under

69 to win Elk Grove boys golf regional

Dukes second as a team; Win 24-team Lake Park invite crown

By Mike Miazga CORRESPONDENT

The York boys golf team has the jets turned on at the perfect time of the season. The Dukes recently took second at the Class 3A Elk Grove regional held at Fox Run in Elk Grove Village to earn a spot in this week’s Class 3A Glenbrook North sectional at Heritage Oaks in Northbrook where berths in this weekend’s state finals meet were on the line.

The news was even better on the individual front where York sophomore Will Huber won the individual regional title with a 1-under-par 69. Sal Purpora added an 80, while Brendan Carroll shot 81 and Hans Bjorlin had an 83. Collin Adelsbach finished with an 84. York shot 313 as a team.

Earlier, York won the 24-team Lake Park regional at Village Links in Bloomingdale. The Dukes shot 312. Carroll was the tournament medalist with a 1-over 73 in rainy conditions from the blue tees. Huber shot 78, while Adelsbach shot 80, Gage Jacobs shot 81 and Bjorlin shot 83. “We had a great week on the golf course,” York coach Jim Borel said. “We won the Lake Park invite against 24 very good teams. Brendan was the medalist. It was a great accomplishment for him and the entire team.”

Earlier, in a 148-157 West Suburban Conference crossover win against Downers Grove South, Carroll shot a 1-under 35 at Village Greens, while Huber shot even-par 36. Jacobs shot 38, while Blake Flessner had a 39. Bjorlin, Anthony Giovannelli and Purpora each shot 40. At the Dundee-Crown invitational, York was third out of 21 teams with a 304. Carroll and Jacobs each shot 74 with Carroll finishing 10th overall. Huber shot 77, while Bjorlin shot 79 and Adelsbach shot 80. “Our kids are playing great and battling hard against some great teams in the area,” Borel said. “We

The York boys golf team recently won the 24-team Lake Park invitational title at Village Links with a team score

was the tournament medalist with a 1-over-73 in rainy conditions from the blue tees. York then finished second at the Class 3A

regional to earn a spot in this week’s Class 3A sectional round where berths in the state finals meet were on the line.

have six players and anyone of them can score and contribute on any given day, which takes pressure off the entire team. We are looking forward

to competing in the sectional.”

Through late last week, York was averaging 153 for nine holes as a team. Carroll was leading the team in

nine-hole average with a 38.1, while Huber was at 38.4 and Jacobs was at 38.8. Adelsbach was averaging 39.4, while Andrew Gumbach was at 39.6,

Flessner was at 39.75 and Bjorlin checked in at 39.76, giving York seven players with sub-40 averages for nine holes.

Trojans beat Dukes in a battle of previously unbeaten teams

The York football team suffered its first loss of the season on Friday night. Downers Grove North defeated the Dukes 35-14 in a battle between unbeaten West Suburban Silver Conference teams in Elmhurst.

The Dukes fell to 5-1 overall and 2-1 in conference play following Friday’s loss. Downers Grove North

improved to 6-0 overall and 4-0 in conference play. York took an early lead in its battle with the visiting Trojans. On a fourth-and-5 play from Downers Grove North’s 28-yard line, York senior quarterback Bruno Massel ran to about the 20-yard line before fumbling the football. York senior

Quinlan Hughes gathered the loose ball near the 18-yard line and ran into the end zone for a touchdown.

Senior Brennan Kennedy made the extra-point kick to give the Dukes a 7-0 lead with about eight minutes left in the first quarter.

The Trojans tied the score at 7-7 before the end of the first quarter.

Downers Grove North scored a pair of touchdowns in the second quarter to build a 21-7 lead by halftime.

The Trojans added to their lead when they completed a 65-yard touchdown pass on the final play of the third quarter. The extra-point kick raised Downers Grove North’s lead to 28-7 with 12 minutes to play.

York senior Adam Yue threw an 8-yard touchdown pass to senior Jack Birnbaum with 8:35 remaining in the fourth quarter. Kennedy made the extra-point kick to reduce the Trojans’ lead to 28-14. Downers Grove North scored the game’s final touchdown on a 55-yard run with about five minutes to play.

SUBMITTED PHOTO Elmhurst Independent

of 312. Brendan Carroll

Elk Grove

IC Catholic Prep graduate

York boys cross country team shows big improvements at Palatine Freshman Hill wins sophomore race; McGrail strong in JV race

By Mike Miazga CORRESPONDENT

Leslie headed to Le Moyne

Will play volleyball for Division II school

By Mike Miazga CORRESPONDENT

Recent IC Catholic Prep graduate Bella Leslie wanted to head east for college.

The York boys cross country team generated plenty of positive headlines recently at the tough Palatine invitational. At the varsity level, York’s top-five runners ran 147 places better than last year at the same race. York coach Charlie Kern pointed out York’s total team time was 3 minutes, 10 seconds faster than last year as well. “The varsity race did not yield the team results we wanted but was another race with massive improvements from last year,” he said.

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.

Junior Carter Olsen led York with a 32 nd-place finish. Olsen ran 70 seconds faster than last year. Emmett Bradford took 46 th place and shaved 100 seconds from his 2023 Palatine time. Max Zangan took 80 th and Jack Sebastian was 85 th in the race. Sebastian was 36 seconds faster than last year. Zach Saltiel finished one second behind Sebastian in his first race of the season. “Having Zach back in our

lineup greatly strengthens our team and increases the competition to be in the top seven,” Kern noted.

Kern said the most amazing performances on the varsity level at Palatine were turned in by Everett Sinson and Eli Lucier. “Both have spent large portions of their running career injured,” Kern pointed out.

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

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

“Their performances at Palatine were nothing short of miraculous.”

Fellow freshman Michael Gurgone and sophomore Harrison Manternach worked together throughout the race, Kern noted, and finished less than a second apart in seventh and ninth place, respectively. Sophomore Anders Dochoff finished in 15 th place.

Sinson ran 1:55 faster than last year. “While that is amazing, Eli ran 2:20 faster than last year,” Kern said. “We are so proud of these boys who have endured such hardships, kept persevering and are now reaping the rewards.”

“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.”

“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.”

In the sophomore race, York ran its best seven freshmen and sophomores. Freshman Patrick Hill won the race in 15:45 and York won the team title. “Patrick ran a very smart race by staying with the leaders, matching each move along the way, and then powered away over the last 500 meters,” Kern explained.

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.”

“Anders continues to be better than everyone else’s fourth runner and helped to ensure our team victory,” Kern said. Thomas Gonzalez rounded out York’s top five with a 27 th-place finish. In the freshman race, York, without its two top freshman runners, took eighth out of 21 teams.

George Knott finished in 14 th place to lead York. “George has continued to improve every day and has become a very good freshman runner,” Kern said. Knott’s time of 13:58 was faster than current varsity runners Olsen, Zangan, Bradford and Sebastian when they were ninth-graders, Kern noted. “George has a very bright future,” Kern said.

– Bella Leslie

“ Their performances at Palatine were nothing short of miraculous. While that is amazing, Eli ran 2:20 faster than last year. We are so proud of these boys who have endured such hardships, kept persevering and are now reaping the rewards.”

– Coach Charlie Kern

six-tenths-of-a-second apart. “John and Jamie have been very good at staying together throughout the race,” Kern said. John Jaworek, who recently made it into the freshmen top seven, finished in 77th place.

“John has strengthened our lineup and has great potential as he continues to gain experience,” Kern said.

Emmett Carroll rounded out York’s scorecard, finishing in 98th place out of 270 runners. “Emmett has been a regular on our morning runs and his dedication is paying off,” Kern said.

In the JV race, senior Patrick McGrail finished third, but he would have been York’s No. 5 finisher in the varsity group.

“The JV race was once again a fantastic showing for Patrick,” Kern said. “He was on a mission, and nothing was going to stop him from a successful race. He earned a varsity spot.”

John Siok finished in 43rd place followed by Jamie Lower in 44th place. Their two times were just

Ryker Harges finished ninth for the Dukes, while Ben Popilek was 13th in the JV race.

Timothy Christian girls tennis team wins Elk Grove invitational

Trojans’ girls volleyball team continues to roll

By Mike Miazga CORRESPONDENT

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.

The Timothy Christian girls tennis team is heading into the home stretch of the season with momentum on its side. The Trojans were 7-5 overall and 1-2 in Chicagoland Christian Conference play through late last week.

Timothy scored recent wins over Glenbard East (5-0) and Fenton (70). Also, the Trojans won the Elk Grove invitational title and took second place the District 88 invitational. Senior Jane Carter was 13-3 at No. 1

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.

Leslie said pandemic life hasn’t been overly exciting, though her club volleyball team has started practicing again. “We have been practicing two or three times a week,” she said. “We are going to be starting tournaments again. Before that I haven’t been doing anything because senior soccer season and the club volleyball season were cancelled. We were supposed to go to a few club volleyball qualifiers in Grand Rapids and Louisville. This summer, we have some tournaments planned over the next few weekends. They are little tournaments with all of the local clubs. Nothing large and really local.

singles through late last week. Carter is a three-time all-state player and took second in the state in the Class 1A doubles division. Madie Byrd is 12-7 at No. 2 doubles, while the No. 1 doubles team of Sami Drye and freshman Laura LaBardi are 13-7 overall. “We are doing a much better job of competing and closing out matches,” Timothy coach Keith Mills said.

Mills has been thrilled with the progress of Fenna Tameling, in particular this season. “Fenna is most improved this year and getting better each week,” he said. “We’re hoping for a strong last two weeks from her.” Mills pointed out Madie Byrd has moved from the singles division early in the season to No. 2 doubles and is “impacting that position with some wins,”

Other than that, I have been trying to work out a lot and stay in shape. I’ve been running a lot, so I got into that. I try and run every day.”

Leslie said she is scheduled to report to Le Moyne in the Aug. 1215 timeframe, but noted preseason volleyball activities already have

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.”

he said. And Carter is inching closer to starting her march toward another state finals appearance. “Jane holds down the top spot and is looking forward to her fourth state tournament run,” Mills said. Timothy has 17 seniors on the roster this season. “We have 17 seniors who are having fun in their last year,” Mills said. “For a school our size, having 17 seniors is impressive. Almost have the senior class.”

Timothy Christian girls volleyball

The Timothy Christian girls volleyball team continued its dominance inside the Chicagoland Christian Conference with a pair of wins. In a 25-7, 25-4 victory over Chicago

York football week 7 preview York (5-1, 2-1) at Glenbard West (2-4, 1-2)

When: Saturday, 1:30 p.m., Glenbard West, Glen Ellyn

(Continued from page 18)

Last year: Glenbard West 28, York 7

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.”

Outlook: York is coming off a 35-14 loss to Downers Grove North, the state’s third-ranked team in Class 7A. York now sits a game behind both Downers North and Lyons Township in the loss column in the West Suburban Conference Silver Division race. The Dukes have had some

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.”

intense battles in recent years with Glenbard West, which started the season an uncharacteristic 0-4 and has since won two in a row by a combined count of 98-14.

Hope Academy, Abby Vander Wal had nine kills, seven aces, one block and one dig. Bella Potempa finished with three kills, two aces and two digs. Ella Rickert had two kills and one block. Jenna Wasco had four kill, one ace and one dig. Audrey Williams had one kill and one block. Kate Vogelzang finished with one ace. Miriam Pozdol-Niego had one ace, four digs and two assists. Elizabeth Alex finished with eight assists and one kill. Maria Pozdol-Niego had three assists and one kill. Anna Stoll had four assists, two aces and one dig. Carolina St. Charles had one dig, while Etta Slinkman had one ace

and one dig and Norah Rudman finished with one kill.

Timothy also dispatched Aurora Christian 25-13, 25-9 to up its mark to 19-2 overall and 5-0 in CCC play. Vander Wal had 10 kills, four digs, two blocks and one ace. Potempa finished with seven kills, three digs and one ace. Rickert had three kills, three blocks and three assists. Wasco had six digs, one kill and one ace. Williams finished with two kills and three blocks. Miriam Pozdol-Niego had seven digs, four aces and two assists. Alex had 16 assists and two aces, while Rudman had two blocks.

ble and transparent and communicate with everybody.”

The Hilltoppers must win out to become playoff eligible. York already is playoff eligible and can stamp an automatic playoff bid with a win in this Saturday matinee matchup at Duchon Field in Glen Ellyn.

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 • Stopka

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

IC Catholic Prep football week 7 preview

IC Catholic Prep (2-4) at Marmion Academy (4-2)

When: Friday, 7:30 p.m., Marmion Academy, Aurora

Last year: Did not play

Outlook: Once again, IC Catholic Prep went toe to toe with another elite team, losing 21-13 to Wheaton St. Francis, which came into the game ranked No. 8 in the state in Class 5A. This result coming a week after a 34-26 loss to Class 8A Chicago Marist. The Knights head to Aurora

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

to face old Suburban Catholic Conference foe Marmion. The Cadets defeated Chicago Heights Marian Catholic last week to get to within a win of becoming playoff eligible. Marmion’s first six opponents had a combined 12-18 mark though five weeks. IC Catholic Prep must win out to become playoff eligible. The Knights face St. Viator at home in Week 8 and then head to Chicago St. Rita in Week 9.

proudly presents

YORK HIGH SCHOOL PLAYER OF THE WEEK WILL HUBER YORK BOYS GOLF

Huber shot a 1-under-par 69 to win the individual title at the recent Class 3A Elk Grove boys golf regional title. Huber’s effort helped York finish second as a team and earn a spot in this week’s Class 3A Glenbrook North sectional in Northbrook, where state finals berths were on the line.

CHRIS FOX PHOTO Elmhurst Independent

District 2 County Board members host donations drive

during October, which is Domestic Violence Awareness Month

In honor of Domestic Violence Awareness Month (October), District 2 County Board Members Paula Deacon Garcia, Liz Chaplin, and Yeena Yoo are hosting their second annual Shelter Needs Donations Drive during the month of October.

“We are grateful for these donations that support our efforts to provide a warm, welcoming, and clean environment for families and individuals facing difficult and life-threatening circumstances,” said Janet Ortega, Domestic Violence Program Director. “It not only provides imme-

Pritzker touts

By Andrew Adams CAPITOL NEWS ILLINOIS

diate relief but also fosters a sense of hope and belonging. This support is a testament to the strength and compassion of our community.”

“We absolutely wanted to support Family Shelter Service in their mission to empower survivors and prevent domestic violence,” added Yeena Yoo, County Board Member (Elmhurst). “Member Garcia and Member Chaplin and I are proud to work with an organization that provides so many necessary services to DuPage residents.”

The Donations Drive benefits

Family Shelter Service of Metropolitan Family Services DuPage (FSS of Metropolitan DuPage). The drive began on Oct. 1, and continues through Oct. 31.

FSS of Metropolitan DuPage is seeking household cleaning supplies (toilet cleaner, dish soap, Windex, laundry pods, multi-surface cleaners) and items from their Amazon Wish List to stock its 41-bed domestic violence shelter.

To deliver items directly to FSS of Metropolitan DuPage, donors can visit https://bit.ly/FSSDVAM, or

shop online through the shelter wish list. Donations may also be dropped off at drop boxes placed throughout the county at each of the DuPage County Health Department’s Public Health Centers:

• 1111 W. Lake Street, Addison;

• 422 N. Cass Avenue, Westmont;

• 1111 E. Jackson Street, Lombard; and

• 115 N. County Farm Road, Wheaton.

Additional drop boxes will be available at Elmhurst Public Library, located at 125 S. Prospect Ave., Elm-

hurst, and the Lisle Library, located at 777 Front Street, in Lisle.

Family Shelter Service of Metropolitan Family Services DuPage works to create a community free of abuse, and serves DuPage residents by providing valuable resources, including emergency shelter, 24hour hotline, court advocacy, counseling, and prevention education. In DuPage, approximately 230,000 residents are impacted by domestic violence.

For additional information, visit www.metrofamily.org/FSSofMFSD.

Illinois’ economic development at data center groundbreaking

A Texas-based company broke ground on a new data center in Aurora last week, the latest in a boom of data storage facility developments in northern Illinois.

Gov. JB Pritzker at the groundbreaking hailed the project as another victory for his administration’s economic development strategy and noted the project will bring with it hundreds of union construction jobs.

Data centers are large facilities used for housing computers that digitally store, process and distribute information.

the one being developed in Aurora. Those rent out space and equipment to a variety of clients.

They can either be developed for a single client—like Microsoft or Facebook’s parent company Meta—or function as “colocation” centers like

The development by CyrusOne— the company’s second in Aurora—is expected to be complete in two years, according to the governor’s office. It is set to receive a tax incentive package as part of the state’s “Data Centers Investment Program.”

That program provided more than $650 million of incentives to other data center projects between 2020 and 2023 – including $25 million for a different CyrusOne development in 2022.

Those tax breaks, according to the Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity, have resulted in $6.5 billion in required investments, $11 billion in total investments and 469 new permanent jobs.

“We have chased down every potential dollar of private investment we could find and leveraged every incentive and grant at our disposal to attract and build up existing and new industries,” Pritzker said.

Eric Schwartz, the CEO of CyrusOne, credited the tax incentive program and Pritzker’s support of it as a key factor in why his company is setting up another data center in Illinois.

“It really does drive the decision making, both for the investments we make, as well as our customers,” Schwartz said.

The move plays into the Pritzker administration’s broader economic

development strategy. Business incentives, like those offered to CyrusOne, featured prominently in the Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity’s five-year plan released in August.

The Data Centers Investment Program, which has provided tax incentives to CyrusOne, is one of several programs developed in recent years to attract business to Illinois.

Other programs include the Reimagining Energy and Vehicles program, which has granted around $1 billion of incentives since 2021, and programs focused on startups, quantum computing and film production.

But data centers in particular pose a unique challenge to the state due to the amount of electricity necessary to keep them running 24 hours a day.

Pritzker positioned Illinois’ grid as an asset to attract data center investment by saying electricity in Illinois is “readily available and reliable.”

But CMRE, the world’s largest real estate services and investment firm, noted in a June report on data center markets that procuring electricity in the Chicago region “poses a significant challenge” to data center development.

Data centers, as well as other energy-intensive developments like electric vehicle battery manufacturing, often require months to years of work with utility companies to ensure that enough electricity can be delivered to new facilities.

ORIGINS

Naches - /näks/: bursting pride or gratification in seeing the ones you’ve taught succeed

“There is only one road to human greatness: through the School of Hard Knocks.” Albert Einstein

The Beaver: known as the hardest working creature in the animal kingdom. Serving as both engineers and laborers, the beaver possesses the smarts and the strength Knocks Players will emulate.

• Boys & Girls 3rd-8th Grade

• Season runs early November – early February

• 6-8 Tournaments

• 2 practices /week (excl. holidays)

• Fee: $775

• Player Package $150 (first-time players only) includes full uniform, practice jersey, tech tee, and player handbook

• First week of practice 1/11

Business & Service

Classifieds

Burial Needs

7 CEMETERY PLOTS Willing to sell as a group or individually. Located at Roselawn Memory Gardens 3045 WI-67, Lake Geneva, WI 53147. This is a private sale. Contact Randy, the seller at randy@slpublishers.com.

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

Never Known to Fail Oh, most beautiful flower of Mt. Carmel, fruitful vine, splendor of heaven, blessed mother of the Son of God.

Immaculate Virgin, assist me in my necessity. Oh Star of the Sea, help me and show me, herein you are my mother.

Oh, Holy Mary, Mother of God, Queen of Heaven and Earth! I humbly beseech you from the bottom of my heart to answer me in this necessity. There are none that can withstand your power. Oh, show me herein you are my mother. Oh, Mary conceived without sin, pray for us who have recourse to thee (3x). Holy Mother, I place this cause in your hands (3xs). Sweet Mother, I place this cause in your hands (3x). Holy Spirit, you who solve all problems, light all roads so that I can attain my goal, you who gave me divine gift to forgive and forget all evil against me, and that in all instances in my life you are with me. I want in this short prayer to thank you for all things as you confirm once again that I never want to be separated from you in eternal glory.

Thank you for your mercy towards me and mine.

The person must say this prayer 3 consecutive days, after 3 days the request will be granted.

This prayer must be published after the favor is granted. A.S.

IC Catholic Prep students honored

IC Catholic Prep (ICCP) is a participant in the Illinois Seal of Biliteracy Program, which recognizes students’ exceptional achievements in English and World Languages. The school established the program through the Illinois State Board of Education to recognize seniors who demonstrate a high degree of proficiency in English and Spanish. The students who earn the Seal of Biliteracy will have the official State of Illinois Seal placed on both their diploma and transcript, and will be eligible to earn guaranteed college credit at all Illinois public universities and community colleges. To earn the Seal of Biliteracy, an ICCP student must demonstrate proficiency in reading, writing, listening, and speaking in Spanish by earning a score of 4 or higher on the College Board Advancement Placement Spanish Language and Culture Exam and show a high proficiency in the English language by

scoring an 18 on the ACT English College Readiness Benchmark or Composite ACT Score of 21; or a 480 on the SAT English/Language section of the test; or a 5 on the College Board AP English Language and Composition Exam. Additionally, students may earn a commendation by earning a score or 3 or higher on the College Board Advancement Placement Spanish Language and Culture Exam while showing the same high proficiency in the English language. Two ICCP students—Matthew Perez and Alexa Castellano—recently earned the Seal of Biliteracy, while four other students—Margaret Berigan, Sofia Herrera, Audrey Mulay and Peyton Schmidt, earned a commendation. Pictured left to right are: ICCP World Languages Chair Madison McMahon, Herrera, Mulay, Schmidt, Berigan, Perez, Castellano and ICCP English teacher Michael Dronzek.

You

Better

Ka( Butler

Suds in the Bucket, Hard to Love, BringOn the Rain, More Than a Memory and more.

Suds in the Bucket, Hard to Love, the Rain, and more.

Singer-Songwriter and Performer

Songwriter (George Strait) and lead guitar player for Glen Cambell, Kenny Chesney, Lee Greenwood.

Songwriter Strait) player Lee and

Fine Furniture Refinishing, Reupholstery, and Restoration

We may not beat everyone’s price, but will certainly meet & exceed your expectations!

NEW LOCATION ~ 101 ANNIVERSARY

October 14th to October 30th

Hours: 7 a.m. to 1 p.m. Monday to Friday or by appointment

Dear Esteemed Clients

We are still in business after 101 years, We welcome you all to our grand re-opening as we moved into my nephew and Godson’s “State of the Art” furniture manufacturing factory at 2150 Madison Street, Bellwood. It’s good to be back in Bellwood! If you want thousands of items made they can certainly do it for you with extreme precision. If you need refinishing, repairs, or reupholstering we are still here to serve you! We also continue our amazing and highly recommended restoration of church pews in any of your places of worship. We have sold all of our carved wood upholstered living room sets and bedroom sets. However we still have our original complete dining room sets as well as living room coffee and end table sets at liquidation pricing along with our Capdimonte centerpieces and giftware. The dining and table sets are all carved wood furniture made in our factory. Our main goal is to liquidate the balance of our inventory and focus on refinishing, repairs, reupholstery and complete furniture restoration.

We truly hope to see you soon and say hello! All our best from the new expanded Montalbano family!

Best,

THE MONTALBANO FAMILY

P.S. We are located 3 blocks east of 25th Avenue and 2 blocks south of Washington Blvd.

The entrance to the parking lot is by the l0 foot tall rock sign.

“Welcome to Bellwood”

MONTALBANO, INC.

2150 Madison Street

Bellwood, IL 60104 USA

Phone: (708) 409-5100

website: www.montalbanofurniture.com

e-mail: info@montalbanofurniture.com

• Furniture

• Refinishing

• Reupholstering

• Repairs

• Restored Antiques