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ECPA Winter Carolers provide Christmas cheer

The Elmhurst Centre for Performing Arts (ECPA) Winter Carolers spread festive cheer across the city earlier this month when they sang well-known Christmas carols at several locations in one night. The carolers began their evening at Kilwins. They next made stops at both The Fynn and Vyne on Haven apartment buildings, and continued winding through Elmhurst, making nearly 20 stops to sing at events including house parties and neighborhood gatherings. The perfor-

mances by the ECPA Winter Carolers are designed to lift spirits, foster community connection, and bring festive joy. The Elmhurst Centre for Performing Arts is a non-profit 501(c)3 organization dedicated to building a state-of-the-art venue for live music, theatre, dance, comedy, and events in the western suburbs. For more information about sponsorship, volunteering, or upcoming events, email ECPAElmhurst@gmail.com.

Elmhurst Park District constructing dog park

By Jane Charmelo FOR THE ELMHURST INDEPENDENT

The Elmhurst Park District listened to residents when they said they would like a dog park, so the new “Canine Corner” is on its way to becoming a reality, according to park district Executive Director Jim Rogers.

The idea for providing residents with a dog park goes back at least as far as 2017, he said, when the park district purchased land on Old York Road from a developer, who had purchased property that used to be a mobile home park.

Even back then, he continued, “We thought it would be a potential spot for a dog park … it had potential back then.”

In 2018, as part of the park district’s “master plan,” the board of commissioners gave its approval for a dog park. It subsequently became a high priority in what was then called the Vision 2020 Plan—which Rogers said was a “comprehensive and strategic plan”—that morphed into what is now called Elevate Elmhurst Parks.

In 2018, “We [asked for] a lot of resident feedback,” Rogers mentioned, conducting public meetings and having a landscape architect firm draw up a master plan—which he said is roughly the same plan as the one pictured in this article.

The COVID-19 pandemic essentially put the project on hold, Rogers recounted, but then, “We were able to come back to it in the last couple of years.”

He said the project is slated to cost $2.2 million, and emphasized is not part of the nearly $90 million referendum approved Nov. 5 by voters to construct a new Joanne B. Wagner Community Center and make improvements and upgrades to other park district facilities.

It was “in the budget prior to the referendum,” Rogers continued, adding that the park district received a $250,000 grant from the State of Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity—which

“ This addition will enable the park district to offer a secure place for dogs to be offleash in a park.”

– The Park District Website

was secured by state Rep. Jenn Ladisch-Douglass from the 45th District.

The grant, he said appreciatively, “has been very helpful” in offsetting some of the cost of the project.

Rogers said the park district began clearing the property earlier this year, and in August, the Elmhurst Board of Park Commissioners, in honor of National Dog Day, held an event for the Canine Corner’s groundbreaking.

While the park district’s website indicated the park would likely be completed by the end of this year, Rogers said “delays in getting permits” for construction have pushed back the opening to what he expects to be spring of 2025.

Canine Corner—the only dog park in Elmhurst—will feature many amenities for both dogs and their humans, such as a dog splash pad, human and canine drinking fountains, waste bag dispensers, pathways with seating, play areas for both large and small dogs, a water feature, an agility course, a natural hill and tunnel, a shelter, a pergola with bench seating, a restroom and storage facility, and a parking lot.

“The park will expand offerings and level of services provided to the community, as well as provide a safe place for dogs to be off-leash while reducing the number of offleash dogs in parks,” the park district website explains. “This addition will enable the park district to offer a secure place for dogs to be off-leash in a park.”

With the membership-based dog park slated to open next spring, Rogers said he expects residents to make

The Elmhurst Park District is in the process of constructing a dog park after receiving residents’ feedback, and it is expected that the park, on 3.4 acres, will open in the spring. One photo (right) shows a new restroom that was just installed on Dec. 16, as one of the amenities for members.

full use of the facility and its amenities.

“Dog ownership is very high in Elmhurst,” he commented, and the park district listened to the requests for a local dog park, “[so] they didn’t have to travel outside of Elmhurst to enjoy that.”

“We’re excited to be expanding our offering, meeting this need,” Rogers concluded, adding that he expects memberships to go on sale in 2025.

For more information on Elevate Elmhurst Parks and the Canine Corner, visit www.epd.org and follow the links.

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Mack’s Golden Pheasant closes after 76 years in business

Mack’s Golden Pheasant Restaurant at 668 W. North Ave., one of Elmhurst’s most popular restaurants, closed its doors on Sunday, Dec. 15. Billed as “The oldest continuously owned restaurant in DuPage County,” Mack’s Golden Pheasant—which opened in 1948—featured such dishes as Roast Duckling, the Bohemian Platter, the Vienna Platter (one-quarter roast duck and a piece of wiener schnitzel) and Austrian Wiener Schnitzel. According to its website, Czech immigrants Frank and Mae Mack turned a one room tavern into a full-service lounge and restaurant in 1948. The couple converted the small building on the corner of North Avenue and Route 83 into a Czech-Austrian inspired chalet. A fire in 1962 destroyed much of the building, except for the north balcony. Frank and his son, Donald, rebuilt the restaurant into its present form. The restaurant also survived a massive flood in Elmhurst in 1987. The building will eventually be leveled by a developer in order to expand the Shell gas station just east of the restaurant.

District 205 Board meeting summary

By Chris Fox ELMHURST INDEPENDENT

The Elmhurst Community Unit School District 205 Board held its final regular meeting of 2024 on Dec. 17 at the District 205 Center, 162 S. York St.

All seven board members attended the meeting.

Board honors York’s girls cross-country team, which placed second at the IHSA Class 3A state meet

The meeting’s spotlight and recognitions segment noted the achievements of York High School’s girls cross-country team, which recently won the second-place trophy at the IHSA Class 3A state meet in Peoria. The Dukes finished second to Barrington at the state meet, which took place on Nov. 9. Barrington edged York by one point in the team standings. Downers Grove North finished third, one point behind York. Barrington posted a team score of 130. The Dukes earned a score of 131, while Downers Grove North turned in a score of 132.

York’s girls cross-country coach—Lauren DeAngelis—noted during the board meeting that the team enjoyed another impressive season. York’s girls program won IHSA Class 3A state titles in 2021 and 2023. The Dukes posted second-place finishes in the IHSA Class 3A state meet in 2022 and 2024. The members of the 2024 team joined DeAngelis at the meeting.

In addition to honoring the entire York team, the board honored freshman Karlin Janowski, who ran to a second-place finish in the individual standings of this year’s Class 3A state meet. In the weeks leading up to the state meet, Janowski won individual titles in the Dukes’ conference, regional and sectional meets. At the state meet, she completed the 3-mile race in a second-place time of

16 minutes, 30.6 seconds.

Board recognizes York’s football team for its secondplace showing in the IHSA Class 8A playoffs

The board also saluted York’s football team during the Dec. 17 meeting. The Dukes’ football team recently finished second in the IHSA Class 8A playoffs. After posting a 7-2 record during the regular season, York won four straight playoff games to advance to the IHSA Class 8A state-championship game. Loyola Academy defeated the Dukes 35-14 in the title contest, which took place in Normal on Nov. 30. This year’s second-place finish marked the best post-season performance in the history of York’s football program.

Don Gelsomino—York’s head football coach—and several of the team’s players attended the board meeting.

Presentations about instructional coaches and instructional leaders

The meeting’s spotlight and recognition segment also included presentations from Emerson Elementary School Sheleen DeLockery and Bryan Middle School Principal Jacquelyn Discipio. DeLockery spoke about the instructional coaching process for teachers at Emerson. Discipio mentioned Bryan’s new schedule during the current school year. That schedule features daily instruction in science and social studies. Discipio also talked about the instructional leaders at Bryan and how they support the school’s teachers.

Meeting features public hearing about 2024 tax levy; board later votes to approve resolution for the levy

The Dec. 17 meeting included a public hearing about the district’s adoption of the 2024 tax levy. Chris Whelton, the district’s assistant su-

perintendent for finance and operations, gave a presentation during the public hearing. Whelton gave a similar presentation at the board’s regular meeting on Nov. 19.

During the public hearing, Whelton noted that the levy is a request, and that the extension is what the county ends up putting on tax bills. Because the amount of recent new construction in the district is unknown, the district levies more than it anticipates it will receive. The 2024 property taxes are collected in June and September of 2025.

According to the district, its total property taxes extended for 2023 were about $151 million. The total property taxes to be levied by the district for 2024 are estimated at about $158.5 million, which represents an increase of nearly 5 percent over the previous year.

According to the district, a district homeowner of a residence valued at $500,000 could expect the District 205 portion of their 2024 property taxes to rise about $245 over the previous year.

In his presentation during the public hearing, Whelton stated that the district’s 2024-25 student enrollment is 8,208, down 59 students from the previous school year. He said that York High School’s current student enrollment is 2,555, a decrease of 82 students from the 2023-24 school year. Whelton said that York’s enrollment is expected to rise slightly in the 2025-26 year to about 2,600 students.

Later in the regular meeting of Dec. 17, the board’s seven members voted unanimously to approve a resolution for the district’s 2024 tax levy.

Presentation

about the district’s audit review

The meeting included a brief presentation about the district’s annual audit review. Scott Duenser, a part-

ner at Wipfli, gave the presentation, which noted that the objective of an audit is to verify that all financial statements are fairly and accurately presented.

District 205’s two busing providers prefer to enter into long-term contracts

The board meeting featured a presentation about the district’s two busing contracts. No action was taken on those two contracts during the meeting.

First Student provides the district’s busing services for general education. Cottage Hill provides the district’s busing for special education.

The district is projecting payments of over $4.6 million to First Student for the current 2024-25 school year. The district is projecting payments of more than $1.58 million to Cottage Hill for the current school year.

Whelton said that the district has been entering into one-year extensions with the two busing companies in recent years. He stated that First Student prefers a five-year extension, which would reportedly help the company update its fleet of buses, spreading the cost over those five years. Cottage Hill is also interested in a long-term busing contract.

In the past few years, the district’s one-year contract extensions with both First Student and Cottage Hill have risen 17 percent (in 202223), 12 percent (in 2023-24) and 9.9 percent in the current school year.

Board to hold a special meeting on Jan. 7; next regular meeting will take place on Jan. 14

The District 205 Board will hold its next regular meeting on Jan. 14. The board will hold a special meeting on Jan. 7.

MIKE SANDROLINI PHOTOS Elmhurst Independent

Forest Preserve District Board approves $126.7 million budget

Key projects earmarked for 2025

The Forest Preserve District of DuPage County Board of Commissioners has unanimously approved a $126.7 million budget, excluding transfers, for 2025. The budget, funded primarily by less than 2% of a DuPage County homeowner’s property taxes, will support daily operations, capital improvements,

Obituary

THOMASINE HOFFMAN, 91

Thomasine Hoffman, 91, passed away in peace at her Elmhurst home on Dec. 19, 2024.

Born March 12, 1933 in Chicago to Emil and Jessie Garippo, through her gentle smiling spirit and sweet startling humor, Tommye radiated her happy warmth to family, friends and all.

Raised in a poor but tightly bonded Italian neighborhood, Tommye graduated DePaul University to pursue her passion to teach.

She taught grade school full time before devoting herself to her growing family, while continuing to substitute teach. And every day she offered lessons in selfless kindness to all around her out of the caring and sympathetic way she lived.

Tommye rarely talked about herself except in fun. She focused on others. She wanted to know how you were doing -- whether one of her children, a neighbor, or someone behind her at the Jewel.

She loved playing piano and volunteered at Elmhurst Memorial Hospital for many years. Tommye looked forward to Bingo and blackjack with her neighbors and visits and travel with family and friends, including winters in Florida and a road trip last summer to Graceland.

Tommye was married nearly 70 years to her beloved Wayne, who passed away last year. She was loving mother to Mary Jo (Mike) Mikottis, Joe (Julie), Andy (Jon Cole), and John; cherished grandmother of Alex (Sara) Williams-Hoffman, great-grandmother of Henry Hoffman, and fond aunt of many nieces and nephews.

A visitation was held on Sunday, Dec. 22, 2024 from 3 p.m.-8 p.m., with a wake service at 7 p.m. at Elmhurst Community Funeral Home –THE AHLGRIM CHAPEL, 567 S. Spring Road, Elmhurst, IL 60126. Funeral Services were held Monday, Dec. 23, 2024 at at the funeral home, followed by a procession to Visitation Catholic Church, 779 S. York St. Elmhurst, IL 60126, for a Mass of Christian Burial was held at Interment Mt. Carmel Catholic Cemetery in Hillside, IL.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations may be made to Trinity Missions, https://trinitymissions. org/.

Arrangements in care of Elmhurst Community Funeral Home - THE AHLGRIM CHAPEL. For info, (630) 834-3515 or www.ElmhurstFH.com.

and strategic initiatives to enhance the District’s facilities and services.

A homeowner whose property has a fair market value of $308,500 is estimated to pay approximately $145 annually to the District, which maintains 26,000 acres of land, 60 forest preserves, 600 acres of lakes, and 175 miles of trails.

Earlier this month the board also approved the annual tax levy, which historically accounts for over twothirds of the District’s annual revenue. The total estimated levy to be extended, $68.4 million, will cover a portion of the District’s operational and capital expenses. Additionally, the Forest Preserve District restructured existing debt and approved the issuance of $85 million in bonds to fund long-term capital expenditures.

“The 2025 budget focuses on supporting daily operations and investing in much-needed capital improvements,” said District executive director Karie Friling. “Our team has once again crafted a fiscally responsible budget within the board of commissioners’ guidelines, supporting key master plan initiatives while ensuring the continued delivery of outstanding recreational and nature-education programs,” Friling said.

The 2025 budget will support a variety of projects aimed at enhancing recreation, improving infrastructure, restoring habitats, and advancing sustainability efforts across DuPage County’s forest preserves.

• Construction of a new Natural Resources and Grounds campus in West Chicago

• Land acquisition

• Completion of the new state-ofthe-art, net-zero-designed DuPage

Wildlife Conservation Center in Glen Ellyn

• Recreational accessibility improvements across the District

• Infrastructure upgrades, including trails, roads, and parking lots at Greene Valley Forest Preserve (Naperville), Blackwell Forest Preserve (Warrenville), Pratt’s Wayne Woods Forest Preserve (Wayne), and Salt Creek Marsh Forest Preserve (Itasca)

• Interior restoration work at Mayslake Peabody Estate in Oak Brook

• Course updates and ecological restoration at Maple Meadows Golf Preserve in Wood Dale

• Habitat-restoration projects at Egermann Woods (Lisle), Fischer Woods (Bensenville), Herrick Lake (Wheaton), West DuPage Woods (West Chicago), and Hickory Grove (Lisle),

• Preserve master planning

• Expansion of green-energy and sustainability initiatives

“This budget represents an exciting opportunity to deliver on the promises we’ve made to our community,” said Daniel Hebreard, the Forest Preserve District president.

“Thanks to the taxpayers’ overwhelming support of the referendum, we can advance key projects that enhance our preserves, improve recreational access, and protect vital natural areas for generations to come. I’m thrilled about the work ahead and grateful for the trust our residents have placed in us to make these investments a reality.”

For more information about the Forest Preserve District’s annual budgets and financial reports, visit dupageforest.org and click on “About Us” and “Transparency Portal.”

Strat’s Drive-Thru, located at 231 E. North Ave., Villa Park, has closed after 25 years in business. Business owner Strat Matsas announced last week that his restaurant would close for good on Sunday, Dec. 22. Strat’s was filled with customers in its final days in business, as long-time patrons and well-wishers stopped in for a final visit. “I’m just overwhelmed with the love,” said Matsas, who is pictured on Friday afternoon. “We’re known for not only the food, but we’re a fun place. Baseball, apple pie and Strat’s. It’s Americana. This is true Americana.” Matsas noted on Friday that past customers from Chicagoland, Wisconsin and Indiana had stopped by in recent days. Local media outlets, including multiple TV and radio stations, also visited Strat’s in its final days in business. Matsas opened his first restaurant in Franklin Park in 1987. The Franklin Park restaurant remained open until 2009. Matsas opened the Villa Park location—on the south side of North Avenue, west of Villa Avenue—in 1999. The business became a magnet for auto and motorcycle enthusiasts. “That wasn’t the main idea,” Matsas said. “I like motorcycles. I like cars. I would hang out with all my friends with motorcycles and cars. It just grew and it snowballed. It wasn’t a plan.” Matsas stated he sold his business after receiving an “irresistible” offer from a national tire company—Belle Tire—which will build a new shop at the current Strat’s location. Matsas expects the Strat’s building to come down in the spring of 2025. “I’m 61. I’m in good health,” said Matsas, who noted that he’s worked long hours at his restaurant, which was open seven days a week. On weekends, Strat’s was open until 2 a.m. It was open until 11 p.m. on weeknights. “Let’s get out when I’m healthy and strong.” Matsas added that he wasn’t certain about his future plans. “I don’t know what I’m going to do, but I’m not done yet,” he said.

CHRIS FOX PHOTOS Elmhurst Independent

Police beat

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

Criminal damage, criminal trespassing

Dec. 16

A complainant in the 400 block of W. Alexander reported that a group of unknown juveniles kicked the front door of her house and cut the mat of a trampoline located in her backyard.

Dec. 14

Donald Bigham, 68, of Las Vegas, Nevada, was issued a citation for trespassing at a store in the 600 block of W. North at 11:38 a.m. At 2 p.m. on the above date, Bigham also was issued a citation for trespassing at the same store.

Dec. 12

A victim at a fitness center in the 600 block of N. York reported that an unknown suspect(s) broke the back window of his vehicle. Nothing appears to be missing from the vehicle, according to the victim.

Domestic incident, disorderly conduct

Dec. 18

A 64-year-old Elmhurst man was charged with aggravated assault and two counts of domestic battery at a hotel in the 500 block of W. Grand at 11:58 a.m.

Dec. 15

A 28-year-old Des Plaines woman was charged with two counts of domestic battery in the 400 block of E. Vallette at 9:13 p.m. Police said officers responded to the 1200 block of S. Prospect at 9:58 p.m. for an intoxicated person. While on the scene, the victim reported her parents were abusive toward her. The victim’s parents reported they were trying to keep additional alcohol out of the victim’s hands. The victim refused treatment and both parties agreed to separate for the night.

Dec. 13

A complainant in the 900 block of S. Spring told police her ex-husband had spit on her car during a custody transfer and wanted the incident documented. The reporting officer spoke with the other party who denied the incident. Both parties were advised to avoid contact with each other outside of custody transfers.

Dec. 12

A victim in the 100 block of N. Haven told police that a verbal argument turned physical when a suspect struck the victim in the face. The reporting officer made contact with the suspect who denied hitting the victim. Due to conflicting statements and no visible injuries, no arrests were made.

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

Dec. 17

Patrick Dorgan, 43, of Ashland, Oregon, was charged with DUI in the 400 block of W. Armitage at 136 p.m.

Jason A. Pascavage, 46, of Elmhurst, was charged with DUI, improper lane usage, failure to yield to an emergency vehicle and driving with expired license plates subsequent to a traffic stop near York and Harvard at 1:46 a.m.

Dec. 14

Filip Ondra, 29, of Bensenville, was issued citations for DUI, no insurance and no valid license near St. Charles at York at 8:41 p.m.

Jose Mauricio Valencia Rangel, 29, of Palatine, was charged with DUI and following too closely near Grand and York at 4:55 p.m.

Fleeing, eluding

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

Identity theft, fraud

According to information provided by the Elmhurst Police Department, police reported five 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: Erick Gonzalez Mandujano, 28, of Addison, near Route 83 and Lake at 9:34 p.m. Dec. 13.

Possession of a controlled substance

Dec. 18

Antonio Escalante-Lopez, 38, of Addison, was charged with possession of a controlled substance, obstructing identification, operating a motor vehicle with no valid license, operating an uninsured motor vehicle and improper display of registration plate subsequent to a traffic stop near Lake and Grand at 9:43 p.m.

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

Dec. 17

Police said that subsequent to a retail theft in progress at a store in the 300 block of S. Route 83, a complainant related the suspects filled bags with unpaid merchandise and fled the scene. The suspects were apprehended and transported to the police station. Julian Guerrero, 19, of Chicago, was charged with aggravated fleeing and eluding, burglary, re-

tail theft, resisting arrest, child endangerment, no valid driver’s license, disobeying a traffic control device, improper lane usage and no insurance. Daniel Bargas III, of Berwyn; and Maria Vega, 20, and Jonathan Abner Moran Rivera, 18, both Chicago, were all charged with burglary, retail theft and obstructing a police officer.

Dec. 16

Police said a complainant reported an unknown suspect exited the store on Aug. 15 with a suitcase full of unpaid liquor. According to police, a warrant was obtained, and Aurinye T. Wells, 23, of Chicago, turned herself in to the police station on the above date. Wells was process on the warrant, charged with burglary and retail theft.

A reporting officer in the 100 block of S. Fairview responded to a report of a construction tractor that had been taken and left in the middle of the roadway. The tractor’s owner was contacted and moved the tractor off the roadway.

Dec. 15-Dec. 16

A victim in the 600 block of S. Spring told police that an unknown suspect(s) entered his vehicle while it was parked overnight and stole several tools.

Dec. 14

A complainant at a gas station in the 1000 block of N York reported a suspect took two

lottery tickets while the employee was in the backroom.

Dec. 12

Police said a victim’s laptop bag containing numerous items was found in the 100 block of E. Lake at 12:25 p.m. The victim was contacted and stated the laptop bag was in his vehicle, which was stolen in Hoffman Estates. The Hoffman Estates Police Department was notified, and the bag was submitted into evidence for safekeeping.

Dec. 11

A complainant at a store in the 300 block of S. Route 83 told police that an unknown suspect concealed merchandise and exited the store without paying.

A victim in the 100 block of Robert T. Palmer observed several fraudulent charges on her bank account and realized that her wallet was missing after going to Walgreens.

Dec. 9

A victim in the 100 block of N. Myrtle told police that an unknown suspect took a yard sign that he placed outside of his house.

Feb. 6-June 18

A victim in the 400 block of S. Argyle told police that an unknown person(s) stole money through her CashApp account linked to her Chase bank account sometime between the above dates.

Man sentenced to 12 years for fatal DUI crash

Crashed into a disabled vehicle on the shoulder occupied by victim

DuPage County State’s Attorney Robert Berlin announced that a former Homer Glen man charged with causing a crash that took the life of 51-year-old John Exner was sentenced to 12 years in the Illinois Department of Corrections.

Robert Ebel, 55, appeared in Court in front of Judge Margaret O’Connell, who handed down the sentence. On April 30, 2024, Ebel entered a blind plea of guilty to one count of aggravated DUI—accident causing death (Class 2 felony).

On Aug. 22, 2020, at approximately 2:00 p.m., Ebel was driving a 2015 Tesla at a high rate of speed on I-55 south of Cass Avenue in Darien. As Ebel approached a semi-truck, he attempted to pass the truck on the right-hand

shoulder of the road and crashed into a disabled Toyota on the shoulder occupied by Exner.

Upon their arrival at the crash, authorities immediately transported Exner to a local hospital where he was treated for life-threatening injuries including a collapsed lung, internal bleeding and injury to his spleen.

Exner died from his injuries approximately 13 hours later at the hospital. An investigation into the matter found that Ebel had amphetamine, cocaine metabolite, cocaine and THC in his system at the time of the crash.

Ebel will be required to serve 85 percent of his sentence before being eligible for parole. He will receive credit for 958 days he has already spent in custody.

Court grants state’s motion to detain pre-trial man accused of human trafficking/promoting prostitution

DuPage County State’s Attorney Robert Berlin and Aurora Chief of Police Keith Cross have announced that Judge Alex McGimpsey has granted the state’s motion to deny pre-trial release for an Aurora man accused of trafficking an 18-year-old woman from West Virginia into prostitution.

Christopher Munger, 43, appeared in First Appearance Court and was charged with one count of trafficking in persons (Class 1 felony) two counts of involuntary servitude (one Class 3 felony and one Class 4 felony) and one count of promoting prostitution (Class 4 felony).

On Nov. 22, the Aurora Police Department Special Operations Group received information regarding online advertisements for prostitution in Aurora.

Through the course of their investigation, officers were led to Munger’s address as the location where the alleged prostitution occurred.

On Dec. 11, undercover officers with the Aurora Police Department conducted an undercover operation at the Gregory Street address and ar-

ranged to meet for sex acts.

It is further alleged that at the time of the scheduled appointment, the officer gave the woman $400 which she then slid under another door in the residence.

It is alleged that after a brief conversation, the officer told the woman he was going to leave and that when he exited the room he saw a male, later identified as Munger, picking up the $400 the woman had previously slid under the door.

Munger was taken into custody at this time.

Following further investigation, it is alleged that after Munger met the woman online, he drove to West Virginia, picked her up and brought her to Aurora.

The investigation also found that the woman has no family in West Virginia and was reported missing when she did not return to a group home where she was living.

Munger’s next court appearance is scheduled for Jan. 6 for arraignment in of Judge Ann Celine O’Hallaren Walsh.

Court grants state’s motion to detain man charged with possessing stolen vehicle allegedly carjacked out of Cook County/fleeing

from police

Co-defendants charged but not detained pre-trial

DuPage County State’s Attorney Robert Berlin and Naperville Chief of Police Jason Arres have announced that Judge Joshua Dieden has granted the state’s motion to detain pre-trial a Palatine man accused of possessing a stolen motor vehicle and fleeing from officers while armed.

Ezequiel Lopez-Bey, 22, appeared at First Appearance Court and was charged with one count of possession of a stolen motor vehicle (Class 2 felony), one count of aggravated unlawful use of a weapon (Class 4 felony), one count of aggravated fleeing and eluding a police officer (Class 4 felony) and one count of misdemeanor resisting a police officer. Lopez-Bey’s adult co-defendant, Andrew De Lance, 19, of Arlington Heights, is charged with one count of possession of a stolen motor vehicle (Class 2 felony) and one count of misdemeanor resisting a police officer. De Lance was not detained pre-trial.

Another individual allegedly involved, a 17-year-old male juvenile, was released pending direct file with the Court.

On Dec. 15 at approximately 7:11 p.m., Naperville police officers received information that a vehicle allegedly carjacked out of Schaumburg at approximately 6:30 p.m., was in the area of S. Washington St. Naperville officers responded to the area and observed the vehicle running with its brake lights on. It is alleged that the vehicle, later determined to be driven by Lopez-Bey with De Lance and the juvenile also inside, pulled out of its parking space at which time officers activated their emergency lights.

It is alleged that instead of stopping, Lopez-Bey drove away at a high rate of speed, struck a marked squad car and then reversed and struck another marked squad car, causing damage to both vehicles. It is further alleged that when another

IDOT, ISP: Don’t let a DUI wreck your holidays

This holiday season, the Illinois Department of Transportation, Illinois State Police and more than 200 police and sheriff’s departments are joining forces for the national “Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over” campaign, reminding the public that law enforcement will focus not only on impaired drivers, but also seat belt violations, speeding, distracted driving and other traffic offenses.

“The holidays should be a time for celebration and creating memories— not for grief and loss caused by preventable crashes,” said Stephane B. Seck-Birhame, IDOT’s bureau chief of Safety Programs and Engineering. “Whether you’re using alcohol, cannabis or any other impairing substance, the message is the same: If you drive impaired, you risk lives, including your own.”

As holiday festivities fill calendars, it’s critical to plan for a sober ride home before celebrations begin. Law enforcement statewide reminds drivers to stay sober and buckle up to help ensure the holidays remain a time of joy rather than tragedy.

According to provisional IDOT data, in 2023 there were 1,241 traffic fatalities. Twelve lives were lost in nine fatal crashes during the holiday period from Dec. 22 to 25. Of those, four deaths involved at least one driver who tested positive for alcohol. As of Dec. 9 this year, there have been 1,192 deaths on Illinois roads, according to preliminary statistics.

“ISP troopers see crashes every day caused by someone who was driving under the influence,” said ISP Division of Patrol Lt. Col. Jason Bradley.

“Don’t become a statistic, especially a fatal statistic, this holiday season. If you’re headed to a holiday party or celebration, plan for a sober driver and get home safe.”

IDOT and law enforcement recom-

officer pulled up, all three occupants of the vehicle exited from the rear driver’s side door. It is alleged that Lopez-Bey was in possession of a weapon, later determined to be an EAA Girsan MC9 9mm semi-automatic pistol with a laser attachment, as he fled. It is further alleged that Lopez-Bey climbed over

an eight-foot-tall fence, at which time officers lost sight of him. Using a drone and with assistance from an Aurora Police Department K-9 officer, Naperville officers were able to locate Lopez-Bey in a backyard shed on W. Redstart Road in Naperville where they placed him under arrest. Officers located the weapon ap-

proximately 10 feet from where Lopez-Bey had climbed over the fence. De Lance and the juvenile were both apprehended following a brief foot pursuit after exiting the vehicle. Lopez-Bey’s and De Lance’s next court appearance is scheduled for Jan. 13 in front of Judge Ann Celine O’Hallaren Walsh.

DuPage County Sheriff’s Office warns of brushing scam

The DuPage County Sheriff’s Office warns the community about a dangerous new scam that’s taking place across the country that could leave your personal information exposed.

In a brushing scam, you may receive an unsolicited gift or package at your home—something you didn’t order. It seems innocent enough, but here’s where it gets tricky: the pack-

age includes a QR code that you’re encouraged to scan.

Don’t scan the code! By scanning this code, you could unknowingly provide scammers with access to your personal information, such as banking, putting you at risk for identity theft or other malicious activities.

Here’s what to do if you receive an unexpected package:

• Do not scan any QR codes or

open any suspicious links.

• Contact the sender if they appear to be a legitimate company.

• Report it to your local police department. If you’re in unincorporated DuPage County, call the DuPage County Sheriff’s Office at 630-4072400.

Remember: if something seems too good to be true, it probably is! Stay vigilant.

“ Don’t become a statistic, especially a fatal statistic, this holiday season. If you’re headed to a holiday party or celebration, plan for a sober driver and get home safe.”

– Lt. Col. Jason Bradley

mend designating a sober driver and not letting friends and family members drive impaired. These are just two of many steps you can take to avoid a tragic crash or an arrest. Other important tips include:

Plan ahead. If you’ll be attending a party or going out, plan for a sober ride to take you home. If it’s your turn to be the designated driver, take that role seriously – your friends are relying on you.

Use your community’s sober ride program if available, call a cab or use your favorite ride-sharing app.

See a friend or family member who is about to drive impaired? Take the keys away and plan to get them home safely.

The increased traffic enforcement is made possible through federal funds administered by IDOT and supported by ISP and local law enforcement. The effort coincides with IDOT’s “It’s Not a Game” radio, digital and TV campaign, which reminds the public of the consequences of impaired driving as well as distracted driving, work zone safety, pedestrian safety, motorcycle awareness and occupant safety. Visit www.itsnotagameillinois.com for more information.

Viewpoint

Slices of life The season of believing

I believe in Santa Claus.

When you critically examine the whole narrative, what’s not to believe? Logic is logic and should dictate our beliefs, or lack thereof.

Let’s start with the big guy’s attire. We’re asked to accept the legitimacy of an elderly gentleman in a furry red size triple XL jacket and pants—complete with matching hat. It may be a bit flashy, but it makes sense. The fur, the boots, the cap—they keep Santa warm. Same goes for the snowy-white beard. Flashy, but practical. That’s our Santa in a nutshell.

Some folks reportedly have a difficult time with the whole flying reindeer thing. And Rudolph. Let’s not forget the flying reindeer with the glowing red nose. I find the concept completely acceptable. How else would Santa’s sleigh get airborne if it weren’t for the reindeer? They are a necessary part of the logic if this Christmas thing of ours is ever going to get off the ground.

As long as you believe in elves (and who doesn’t?) it’s a plausible leap to embrace the idea of them being the North Pole toy makers. Someone’s got to help Santa make all the toys. Why not elves? (The flying reindeer clearly aren’t capable—no opposable thumbs.)

The bag of presents—all wrapped—one for every child (the nice ones, at least). Now there’s a plot line that’s just too feel-good to be false. Fitting all those presents into one sleigh? Priceless.

Santa’s method for delivering the gifts may make a rational person ponder. Going down the chimney is conceivable. But shooting back up takes a bit of faith and willingness to abandon concepts like gravity. On the other hand, if you refuse to accept Santa going up and down the chimney, how do you explain the M & M’s commercials?

If we acknowledge life-size M & M’s can be real, then it’s only fair to show our jolly old elf the same courtesy. It’s all in the name of Santa – and for a good Claus. Up the chimney he goes. I believe. Yes I do.

By JILL PERTLER Columnist

If we are being honest here (and Santa embodies the epitome of honesty) there are some realities to Santa’s situation the TV specials and shopping malls don’t reveal. Take his fur coat, especially the white cuffs. They certainly must be a little sooty by the end of the big night. Then again, we can only surmise that the elves or Mrs. Claus—or Santa himself—must be excellent at stain removal. Or maybe the penguins do the laundry. Wait, that’s the other North Pole.

As for Santa’s trademark jolly laughter, here’s a little known fact: Ho, ho, ho, originated nearly a century ago when Santa delivered presents to a gigantic green boy. Legend has it the extra large, extra jolly boy was so delighted with the gifts, he let out a belly laugh that sounded like “Ho, ho, ho.” (Either that or, “Eat your peas.”)

Santa, being jolly himself, got caught up in the moment and laughed along with the giant.

Someone caught six seconds of it on video, put it on Tik Tok and the iconic moment has been one of Santa’s trademarks ever since. Two million followers and counting.

It’s the season to believe. And I do. Santa, elves and flying reindeer—I embrace their story. It’s beyond the human imagination to make up such a tall tale. The whole thing is simply too outrageous not to be true. Almost as outrageous as the concept of an innocent baby who came to earth more than 2,000 years ago to deliver his own gift to us all.

That’s another story I choose to believe.

Jill Pertler is an award-winning syndicated columnist, published playwright and author. She delights in having readers follow her column on the Slices of Life page on Facebook.

We want to print your news! What’s going on at your club or organization? Seeking new members? Hosting a fundraiser? Send details to independent@rvpublishing.com

Fighting to pass new legislation to bring down the price of prescription drugs

By U.S. Rep. Raja Krishnamoorthi

On Dec. 4, I joined with a bipartisan coalition of members from the House and Senate calling for Congress to take up Pharmacy Benefit Manager (PBM) reform legislation before the end of the year.

PBMs, which have positioned themselves as hugely profitable middlemen between drug companies and patients, are driving up prices of prescription drugs for consumers and killing competition by pushing independent and local pharmacies out of business.

The Federal Trade Commission (FTC), 39 state attorneys general, and members from both parties in Washington agree: the way PBMs operate is unsustainable and unacceptable.

The bipartisan consensus is evident, the need for reform is evident, and the desire for Congress to act is evident.

Now is the time for Congress to end the stranglehold PBMs have on our health care system by moving to protect pharmacy competition and lower prescription drug costs for everyone. It is my hope that this week’s demonstration of strong bipartisan support for reform pushes Congress to act on this issue before the year ends, aiding our local pharmacies and saving Americans money on prescription drugs.

An inquiry into illicit vapes and addressing the youth vaping crisis

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

These illegally smuggled products, often marketed to young people through targeted advertising and kidfriendly flavors, threaten our children with nicotine addiction. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has only authorized 34 flavored e-cigarettes, but the vast majority have not been approved through a safety review and are still illegal. During my press conference with Sheriff Dart, I made it clear that our kids are not for sale.

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

The FDA must act to remove these illegal, highly addictive products, which are being deliberately marketed to children, from stores across Illinois and the country. Since initiating the first Congressional investigation into the youth vaping epidemic in 2019 and co-founding the Bipartisan Congressional Caucus to End the Youth Vaping Epidemic, I have

remained committed to stopping the illegal practices and predatory tactics of Big Tobacco and their partners overseas. The fight must go on.

Unanimous House passage of my bipartisan legislation to protect Americans from trade crimes

The U.S. House has unanimously passed my bipartisan Protecting American Industry and Labor from International Trade Crimes Act.

As the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) continues to pursue trade policies that violate American trade laws, this bipartisan legislation will crack down on these crimes by establishing a new unit at the Department of Justice dedicated to strengthening enforcement and holding perpetrators criminally liable.

Through countering the CCP’s illegal trade practices, such as violating the Uyghur Forced Labor Prevention Act, dumping belowmarket iron and steel, and flooding the American market with illegal vapes, our bipartisan bill will protect American workers, consumers, and companies.

In the wake of the House passage of the bipartisan bill, I hope the Senate will swiftly take up and approve the legislation to protect Americans, our economy, and our values.

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

The promenade of the Elmhurst Hospital Main Campus is a vision of hope and love this holiday season as the trees that line the central garden are lit up brightly for all to enjoy. These special lights, Love Lights, represent donations made in honor or memory of a special individual.

4th Floor Orthopedic StaffElmhurst Hospital

Dr. Moni Abraham

All Starbucks Employees

Heather Bland, PA

James Boblick, MD

Dr. Christopher Boutin

Cancer Center

Dr. Ronald Cheff (2)

Alison Chrabot, RN

James Chrabot

Dr. Michael Cohan (2)

Dr. Fadi Dahdaleh

John & Kathy Dalicandro

Odila Davila

Dr. Arthur DeKruyter

The Doctors and Nurses at Elmhurst Hospital

The Staff at Elmhurst Hospital

Jennifer C. Evrard

Marilyn Evrard, MD

Maggie Grady-Hooper (Nurse)

Ryon Hennessy, MD

Michelle Jackowski

In Honor of:

Brittany Klco

Dr. David Kraman

Abigail A. Loyd

Caitlin H. Loyd

Oliver R. Loyd

Doris Adams

Don Alexander

Jody Alexander

Tom Alexander

James Baker

Thomas Bamford (2)

Jeffrey Bannon

Jean Ryndak Barganski

Claire Bartels

Violet & Harvey Bartels

Mr. & Mrs. Edward Becht

Lorraine Beczak

Gertrude T. Bednarek

Kay Benzin

Tom & Dorothy Boe

Leon & Susan Boghossian

Licia Boghossian

Harriet Bolling

Daniel Bolton

Matthew Bongat

Nancy Borngraber (6)

Neil F. Bowser

Robert J. Boylan

Richard Bruce

Laura Bresnahan Bush

Edward John Butkevich Sr.

Carol Carlson

Lee Etta Carter

Ginger Cassai

Dr. George Chipain

Kenneth Chmiel

Richard Cichy

Jeff Cole

Cecelia Connolly

Cooper

Anthony Cossa

Thomas Coughlan

Bernard E. Crandall

Julia & Bernard Crandall

Jack Daly (Grandfather)

Bert Daniels

Evelyn Daniels

Rollo C. Davis

Dr. Arthur DeKruyter

Michael F. DeLaurentis

Joseph & Barbara Demanuele

Harry A. Dennis, Jr.

Richard Dernulc (2)

Kay Diggle

Jovanka Dragosavljevic

Stojsa Dragosavljevic

Diane DuBois

Mary Dunne (Mom)

William Dunne (Dad)

Deborah Pilny Dunnick

Kristen Elkins (2)

Rolando A. Esmao

Jeffrey K. Ferranco

Emil Ferrarini

Patricia Ferrarini

Lawrence Field

Raymond Filas

M. Ward Fleming

Jordan Thomas Fulton

Jim Geils

William Green & Alan Hoffman

Dr. Roger MacDuff

The Madryzycki Family

Myrna Malon, RN

Sandy Maxwell, RN

Carol Nolan

Dr. Michael Nosek - Elmhurst Hospital

In Memory of:

Patricia Grosbier (2)

Jeff Gwin

Lloyd J Harman Jr.

Lloyd J Harman III

Guido Hausner

Karl Hausner

Stefanie Hausner

Niki Helmer

Casey Hoey

James F. Hoey

Walter K. Hoffman Jr.

Diane Hughes

Gerald Hughes

Dieter Jaenicke

Ursula Jaenicke

Margaret Jenkins

The Kapp Family

Joseph Kasperski

Kathleen Kasperski

Alex Kaval

Mary Kaval

Jerry King

Millie Klco (2)

Steve Klco

AnneLore Koebler

Walter Koebler

Mr & Mrs. Robert

Lechowski, MD

Frederick R. Luscombe

Anna S. Lutter

Edward H. Lutter

Julie M. MacKellar (Former EMH Volunteer)

Nurse Beverly

Dr. Patrick O’Meara

Dr. Jennifer Owens

Mohammed Abdul Quadeer

Corinne Fortney Sanabria

Estella Sanders

Marc St Onge

George Stathopoulos, MD

Rita Steiskal (2)

Shirley Stiemann

Amy Stock

Carl Stock

The deceased members of the Madrzycki Family

Michelle Maiers

Shelly Maiers

Joe Marshman

Raymond Maxson

Wanda Maxson

Demetrios Mazomenos

Efrosini Mazomenos

Robert McCarthy

The McClintock Family

MSGT John A. McClintock

“Mac” US Air Force

Kathryn I. McCrea

Ken & Mary McIntosh

Marvin Menconi (2)

Bonnie Mesha

Sam Mesha

Joseph I. Meyer

James J. Migala, MD

Juliana Marie Migala

Andrew James Mogni

James Andrew Mogni

Ralph Moore

Janet Mueller (2)

Raymond Mueller (2)

Maureen L. Mullen

Bill Neville

Carol Nielsen

Dr. & Mrs. David E. Norbeck

Bill O’Connor

Colin O’Connor (our grandson)

Charles Odegard

Gerald O’Keefe

Ramona Osgood

Lemyle Paape

Susan Roe-Pearson

Dr. Gerard Putz

Kevin Putz

Theodore Quednau (4)

Florence Quigley

Ann Redmond

Criss Redmond

Kenneth L. Reger

Juan B. Reyes

Julie D. Reyes

Jerry Richards

Donald F. Robinson

Sera & Konnie Rogalski

Henry Russo

Josephine Russo

Jim Ryan

Sharon Samuels

Louis Santerior

Laura Schaub RN

Karen Renee Schweihs

Gene Semmelhack

Camille A. Shanklin

Dorine Stefani

Dr. Ronald H.

Stefani, Sr. (2)

Deborah Steik

Doug Steiner

Jane Stiemann

Robert Stiemann

Ted Stiemann

Ahmedi Sultana

Dale Sutor

Susan Tyburski

Emela Vukomanovic, MD

Dr. Hollis Walker

Blair Williams

Annie Woods

John Woods

Dr. Matthew Zuckerman

William Stiemann

Wayne Stolzenbach

Donna Fleming Sweeney

Jacob D. Swilley

Nadia Templeton

Ellsworth Thomson

Wanda Tralewski

Mark Vessini

Don Wajda

Frank Wajda

Virginia Wajda

Jerry W. Walker

Joyce Wangelin

Dr. Thomas Welsh

Darrell Whistler

David Whistler

Dorothy Whistler

Matthew Whistler

John F. Whiteside

Lois Wiersum

Ronald E. Willems

Florence Gail Williams

Gloria Wilson

Gary Winstead (2)

Margarete B. Wirth

William F. Wirth Sr.

Gus Peter Zakos

Trudy Zakowski

Mr. N. J. Zapinski

Fred Zaplatosch

Col. Thomas L. Zimmerman

TranzAct Technologies donates Christmas toys

Earlier this month, Linda Richardson, Chris Labuda and Laura Koenig, representing TranzAct Technologies of Elmhurst, paid their annual December visit to York Township Hall. This year, the trio brought boxes loaded with hundreds of toys, games and books for York Township residents in need this holiday season. The items will be distributed to the children of York Township Food Pantry clients through the food pantry’s “Adopt a Family for Christmas” program.

Pictured (left) left to right are: Koenig (TranzAct Technologies Distribution Clerk), Richardson (TranzAct Technologies Human Resources Manager), York Township Supervisor John W. Valle, York Township Food Pantry Director Angela Tanner and Labuda (TranzAct Technologies EDI Manager). “On behalf of the families who benefit from our food pantry’s ‘Adopt a Family for Christmas’ gift program, I would like to thank the management and employees at TranzAct Technologies again for their generous donations and ongoing support year after year,” said Valle.

Police issue warning about unsafe driving near North and Villa avenues

Authorities advised people to avoid the area on the evening of Sunday, Dec. 22

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On Sunday, Dec. 22, the Villa Park Police Department issued a statement about unsafe driving that had taken place near North and Villa avenues during the previous two evenings.

“The past two evenings on North Avenue, between Villa and Addison [avenues], there have been several unsafe acts committed by drivers of cars,” noted the police department’s statement. “On Dec. 20, there was a high speed collision and serious accident in that corridor. On Dec. 21, there was a takeover of North and Villa, as well as private business lots, with vehicles operating in an unsafe manner. There was an arrest attempted, and a crowd formed to block that arrest. There was also an unsubstantiated claim that a few subjects were displaying weapons.”

The police department’s statement urged motorists to consider avoiding the area of North and Villa avenues on Sunday evening, Dec. 22.

“As a police department, we will do all we can to keep the public safe, but with such large crowds and a few bad actors it will be a challenge,” noted the police department’s statement.

“We do not feel it is a safe environment for passersby, pedestrians, and youths being dropped off in the area. We would ask you to proceed with caution in the area, or even avoid the area as much as possible this evening [Dec. 22].”

The police department’s statement included a warning to those who might flee from a traffic stop.

“The police departments in the area will not be allowing any vehicles to park in other business lots or on residential streets,” noted the Villa Park Police Department’s statement. “If you should choose to commit a parking violation, we will issue citations and tow your vehicle. If you should choose to flee from a lawful traffic stop, please know we have an ordinance where we will issue $900 fee to the owner of that vehicle. We are prepared to spike the tires of any vehicle that attempts to flee and take all appropriate action against drivers who endanger the public. There have been deaths and serious injuries that have occurred in that corridor. We would ask that all people stay away from that corridor tonight [Sunday, Dec. 22].”

Police department urges motorists to drive sober this holiday season

The Elmhurst Police Department has joined forces with the Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) for the “Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over” and “Drive High, Get a DUI” enforcement campaign to ensure that festive gatherings don’t end in tragedy. From Dec. 20 through Jan. 2, law enforcement agencies across Illinois will adopt a zero-tolerance policy for impaired driving to keep our roads safe.

driving:

• Plan ahead: Designate a sober driver, use public transportation or arrange for a ride-sharing service.

• Report dangers: If you spot an impaired driver, pull over safely and contact police.

• Be a hero: Stop a friend from driving impaired by taking their keys and helping them get home safely.

This season, let’s make safety our shared priority. If you plan to drink or use impairing substances, plan ahead for a sober ride home. Driving impaired isn’t just dangerous—it’s illegal and potentially deadly.

The Elmhurst Police Department urges everyone to take the following simple steps to prevent impaired

• Buckle up: It’s your best defense against impaired drivers. Make this holiday season memorable for all the right reasons. Celebrate responsibly and help ensure everyone gets home safely. This campaign is made possible through federal highway safety funds from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration administered by IDOT.

SUBMITTED PHOTO Elmhurst Independent

Happy New Year from Lezza Bakery & Gelateria! It was a pleasure serving you in 2024 and we’re really excited for 2025! The weather outside may be frightful but it’s sure delightful at Lezza’s! And if you have no place to go... stop in and we’ll warm you with our fresh baked treats and hot coffee and cocoa.

We have a whole calendar planned for the New Year, so be sure to stop by often. EXCITING

WE NOW HAVE AN ONLINE STORE!

Just shop and ship when you can’t stop by to see us. ***We are closed for New Year’s Day!***

•

DuPAGE DESTINATIONS

Your Dining & Entertainment Guide to the Western Suburbs

Can’t-miss events in and around DuPage County

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

Ongoing

North Suburban Carvers meetings

The North Suburban Carvers meet on the first and third Mondays of each month at the Wood Dale Public Library from 6:30-8:30 p.m. Anyone interested in carving, power carving, wood burning or special finishing techniques is welcome. North Suburban Carvers is a non-profit organization that promotes carving in the Chicago area. For more information, visit: northsurburbancarvers.com .org/calendar.aspx.

Now through Dec. 31

Naper Lights

Naperville

From 4-10 p.m. every evening in downtown Naperville, put on a pair of 3D glasses and enjoy a magical holiday lights celebration. Marvel at this free dazzling display of holiday lights and sound as you stroll down Water Street, Foyo Plaza, Jaycees Park and the Riverwalk in Downtown Naperville. Free. For more information, visit: www.napervillesunrise. com/events/naperlights.

Now through Jan. 1 Holiday Lights at Lilacia Park

Lombard

Every evening from 4:30-10 p.m. at the park, 150 S. Park Ave., enjoy the Lombard Park District’s annual holiday lights display. Charming holiday displays illuminate the park with magical light shows, tree decorations, a gingerbread house, and so much more! Youngsters can visit with Santa Claus, enjoy a spectacular show with complimentary hot cocoa and cookies, and visit with their favorite holiday characters. Free. For more information, visit: https://lombardparks.com/ holiday-lights.

Now through Jan. 3 Penguin Scavenger

Hunt

Elmhurst

Recurring daily, over 100 plush penguins are hidden in the windows of your favorite Elmhurst City Centre merchant windows. Come explore downtown Elmhurst, search for the penguins and enter to win over 100 prizes. Player cards are available online or in any of the participating retailers. It’s free family fun—come en-

joy the holiday lights while you discover Elmhurst City Centre. For more information, visit: https://www.elmhurstcitycentre.com.

Now through Jan. 5

Illumination: Tree Lights

Morton Arboretum Lisle

From 4:30-9:30 p.m. every evening at the Morton Arboretum, Celebrate the holidays and marvel at how light transforms a magnificent landscape. Exciting features and immersive installations in this festive experience will delight all ages along a one-mile path that is fully ADA compliant.

Warm up by a crackling fire and roast marshmallows for s’mores, stop in at the concession tent on Frost Hill for snacks and beverages, or sit down to a delicious meal at the Ginkgo Restaurant to view a laser light finale on Meadow Lake. A temperature-activated, color-changing ceramic mug will be available for purchase on all Illumination dates. The 2024 exhibition features 17 displays of lights and music that highlight the beauty of trees in winter. For more information and questions about purchasing tickets, call 630-725-2066, email: tickets@mortonarb.org or visit: https:// mortonarb.org/explore/activities/exhibitions/ illumination.

Now through Jan. 5

Christmas at Cantigny Wheaton

Recurring weekly on Sunday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday Friday and Saturday at Cantigny, 1S151 Winfield Road, this holiday season, Christmas at Cantigny invites you to cherish the moments together. Explore a dazzling array of experiences as you stroll through a ½-mile, fully ADA- and stroller-accessible path. Along the way, music-orchestrated light shows, festive decorations, larger-than-life flower sculptures, and a towering 28-foot Christmas tree will enchant you. You can also step inside the beautifully adorned McCormick House, a unique opportunity to explore this historically preserved home, blending history with holiday charm for a special addition to your visit. After taking in the sights, enjoy ice skating and cozy cabanas—perfect for creating cherished holiday moments. Stay a while to relax and indulge in holiday favorites: cozy up by the fire pits, roast s’mores, sip on specialty drinks and immerse yourself in the festive atmosphere. For more information, visit: https:// cantigny.org/things-to-do/christmas-at-cantigny.

Friday, Dec. 27 and Saturday, Dec. 28

Breakfast with Carolers

Oakbrook Terrace

Starting at 10 a.m. each day at Drury Lane Theatre and Events, 100 Drury Lane, extend the holiday enchantment at Breakfast with Carolers! Indulge in a lavish breakfast buffet against the stunning backdrop of Drury Lane’s dazzling chandeliers. Immerse yourself in the festive atmosphere with live carolers performing beloved holiday tunes.

Community calendar

Recurring on Sundays

Elmhurst Model Railroad Club

Sunday open house. From 1-4 p.m. every Sunday at the Elmhurst Model Railroad Club, 111 E. First St., and visit the club’s three operating model railroad layouts. For more information, call 630-530-9584 or email: emrrc@comcast.net

Recurring weekly on Monday nights

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

Recurring monthly

Memory care support group

Held on the first Wednesday of every month at the Adult Christian Day Center, Epiphany Church, 314 W. Vallette, Elmhurst and at St. Paul Church, 545 S. Ardmore, Villa Park, from 10:30-11:30 a.m., this is a free support group for those caring for

someone with Alzheimer’s or dementia. The group alternates months between Epiphany Church and St. Paul Church. Call or text Jamie to RSVP at 312-543-5158 or email: AdultChristianCenterElmhurst@ gmail.com for more information.

Now through Jan. 3

Penguin scavenger hunt. Presented by the Elmhurst City Centre and recurring daily, there are 100 plush penguins hidden in City Centre Merchant Windows this holiday season. Come explore the heart of downtown Elmhurst, find the penguins and see what City Centre is all about—great shopping, delicious dining and top notch, hometown service. Player cards available at all participating merchants and online at elmhurstcitycentre.com. For more information, call 630-993-1600 or email: info@ elmhurstcitycentre.com

Thursday, Jan. 16

Artist talk with Clayton Beck III. From 7-9 p.m. at Elmhurst Art Museum, 150 Cottage Hill Ave., The Elmhurst Artists’ Guild will host an artist’s talk with award winning artist Clayton Beck III. The talk is free and open to the public. For more information, call 630-738-9102 or visit: www.elmhurstartistsguild.org

Friday, Jan. 17

“Snapshots: Elmhurst Now &

We want to print your news! Is your church hosting a special event?

Community Calendar listings are free! Send details to independent@rvpublishing.com

Elmhurst Public Library programs

Friday, Dec. 27

2-4 p.m.

Friday Features: “Togo”

Enjoy an afternoon at the movies. Find each week’s featured film at elmlib.org/Friday.

No registration required.

Saturday, Dec. 28

10 a.m.-2 p.m.

Canasta

Join us for a friendly game of Canasta every week. Prior experience is required.

Live in-person. No registration required.

Monday, Dec. 30

7-8 p.m.

Start the New Year with Meditation

The New Year is a time to start with a clean slate. Through meditation one can benefit in all aspects of life — mentally, emotionally, physically, and spiritually. Join Bruce Faithwick for this lively and enjoyable workshop.

Then” exhibit opens. Experience the museum’s latest exhibit through Sunday, Feb. 23 from 1-5 p.m. This original exhibit will showcase digitally enhanced photographs of iconic Elmhurst buildings, street views, parks, and transportation routes using images from the museum’s permanent archives. These historical images will be paired with their

contemporary counterparts, allowing guests to observe the evolution of Elmhurst’s history through changing architecture, transportation, green spaces, and business developments. The exhibit will feature 25 framed photographs and video footage from the museum’s archives, including the earliest filmed footage of Elmhurst from a “drive around town” in 1929,

recreated in 1990. Admission is free. For more information, visit: elmhursthistory.org

Elmhurst History Museum Info: elmhursthistory.org.

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

Worship Services Directory

St. Timothy Evangelical Lutheran Church

547 N. Main St., Lombard, IL 60148 630-627-2435

Virtually on Zoom. Register to receive the information to join.

Tuesday, Dec. 31 1-3 p.m.

Bridge and Pinochle

Enjoy an afternoon of card cages every week. Prior experience is required.

No registration required.

Thursday, Jan. 2 7-8 p.m.

Ukulele Circle

Play popular tunes with others in a group setting. Bring your ukulele or borrow one of ours. Some ukulele experience required.

Live in-person. Registration required.

Friday, Jan. 3 2-4 p.m.

Friday Features: To be announced

Enjoy an afternoon at the movies. Find each week’s featured film at elmlib.org/Friday. No registration required.

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

Lent and Easter Services at 7 p.m.

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

“The Crucial Hours”

Ladies Bible Fellowship Mondays at 6:30 pm

Wednesday Service at 7pm

Second Lenten Service March 9, 2022

Immaculate Conception Church

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, January 25, Game Night at 4 pm

Third Lenten Service

134 Arthur St., Elmhurst, IL

630 530-8515

www.icelmhurst.org

March 16, 2022

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

Everyone is Welcome! All services are live streamed. Watch on our website or on Facebook. sainttimothy.org

Fourth Lenten Service

March 23, 2022

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

Fifth Lenten Service

Feast of the Holy Family

Saturday, December 28 8:00am Church

4:30pm Sacred Heart Chapel

Sunday, December 29

7:30am & 7:00pm Church 9:00am & 11:30am Sacred Heart Chapel

March 30, 2022

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

Sixth Lenten Service April 6, 2022

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

Maundy Thursday Communion 7 p.m., April 14

Good Friday Tenebrae 7 p.m., April 15

Solemnity of Mary, Mother of God Tuesday, December 31 4:30pm Church Wednesday, January 1 7:30am & 11:30am Church (No 9:00am or 7:00pm Masses)

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

Easter Breakfast 8 a.m., April 17

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

for as low as $20 per week Call Brenda at 630-834-4450 or Betty at 630-627-7010

S. York

Elmhurst, IL 630-834 -6700 www.visitationparish.org

The Epiphany of the Lord Saturday, January 4 4:30pm Sacred Heart Chapel Sunday, January 5 7:30am & 7:00pm Church 9:00am & 11:30am Sacred Heart Chapel

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

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

Confessions: Saturday: 3-3:45PM

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

Business

Jennifer Veremis named Elmhurst Chamber of Commerce and Industry’s new president and CEO

The Elmhurst Chamber of Commerce and Industry (ECCI) Board of Directors at its Dec. 10 meeting at Community Bank of Elmhurst approved the hiring of Elmhurst resident Jennifer Veremis as President and CEO, effective Jan. 1, 2025.

Veremis is the ECCI’s current Director of Member Services, an elected Elmhurst City Council First Ward Alderman, a small business owner and small business coach.

Veremis will succeed retiring 25-year President and CEO John Quigley, who in 2025 will serve in the new position of the ECCI’s Director of Marketing and Communication.

“I first envisioned this succession on the night that I met with Jennifer nearly two years ago to discuss her passion for helping small businesses and working for a not-for-profit organization,” Quigley stated, “and I am thrilled to pass our Chamber’s torch on to the next generation.”

“Her knowledge of the Elmhurst business community as both an entrepreneur and coach, and experience working with governmental bodies and elected officials at local,

state and federal levels are invaluable assets,” added Quigley.

While other women have served as the ECCI’s Executive Director, Veremis is the first female President and CEO in the Chamber’s 106-year history.

“I am honored to take on this role,” Veremis said. “As a dedicated long-time Chamber member, small business owner and Elmhurst resident, I am excited to work with our Board of Directors and members to achieve even greater things for our Chamber and the business community.”

Her hiring completed a year’s succession planning by both the ECCI’s Board and Executive Committee, led by 2024 Chair Colin Dalough of Endeavor Health, in vetting an in-house candidate rather than undertake a Board-directed search or contract with a search firm.

“Jennifer will hit the ground running with a vital knowledge of our Chamber’s culture and history,” said Dalough. “She is the perfect person to lead our organization to new heights.”

In her role as Chamber Presi -

dent and CEO, Veremis will represent the business interests of ECCI members with the United States Chamber of Commerce, Illinois Chamber of Commerce and Chicagoland Chamber of Commerce.

Veremis will network with chamber peers through her activities in the Association of Chamber of Commerce (ACCE) Executives, Illinois Association of Chamber of Commerce (IACCE) Executives and West Suburban Chamber of Commerce Executives.

Veremis will also represent the ECCI on both the City of Elmhurst’s Economic Development Commission and the Elmhurst City Centre Board of Directors as an Ex-Officio member, on the Elmhurst Business Alliance, with the Spring Road Business Association and more.

Veremis has served as the ECCI’s Director of Member Services since March 2024 after spending six months as a contracted membership recruiter.

Veremis has represented Elmhurst’s Ward 1 on the City Council since July 2020, with her current four-year term expiring in 2027.

She currently serves as Vice Chair of the Development Planning & Zoning Committee (DP&Z), pending a new Mayoral assignment for 2025.

As a Ward 1 Alderman, Veremis also serves as an Ex-Officio member of the Elmhurst City Centre Board of Directors. She served as an elected City Centre Board member from September of 2019 to July of 2020 as a business owner in downtown Elmhurst.

Veremis as been the President of ECCI member Go.Get.Her., Inc., since she founded the small business coaching and consulting firm in May of 2019 and was the President of former Chamber member The Beauty Lounge in downtown Elmhurst from May 2004 to January 2021.

Her volunteer activities include the United Service Organization (USO) O’Hare Center, As Good As Gold Golden Retriever Rescue of Illinois and Safe Haven Dog Rescue.

Established in 1918, the Chamber’s mission is to promote an environment that creates success for local businesses and the community.

The Elmhurst Chamber of Commerce and Industry (ECCI) recently approved the hiring of Jennifer Veremis as its President and CEO, effective Jan. 1, 2025. Veremis is an Elmhurst resident and a member of the Elmhurst City Council. She will succeed the ECCI’s retiring President and CEO—John Quigley, who will serve in the chamber’s new position of Director of Marketing and Communication. Veremis is the first female President and CEO in the ECCI’s 106-year history.

Giannoulias unveils relocated and reimagined Lombard DMV

New facility leverages drive-through kiosk to offer improved services around the clock

One of the state’s busiest DMVs has relocated and is now offering 24-hours-a-day, seven-days-a-week renewal services through the state’s first drive-through DMV kiosk.

The new facility uses a data-driven design to cut wait times and improve the overall customer experience, Illinois Secretary of State Alexi Giannoulias announced.

The state’s west-suburban Lombard DMV re-opened last week at its new location, 837 Westmore-Meyers Road, Unit A2, conveniently located in Eastgate Center—the same shopping center as the former location.

For years, the Lombard facility has been one of the state’s busiest facilities. In 2023, the Lombard location completed more than 134,000 vehicle transactions—the most of any of the 143 facilities in the state—and nearly 125,000 driver-related services—the fifth most in the state and the most of any DMV outside of Chicago.

“The Lombard DMV wasn’t keeping up with the growing population in DuPage County. Its small size and the technical limitations often created nightmares for customers with long lines and long wait times.” Giannoulias said. “The new facility will pair the efficiency of our ‘One-Stop-Shop’

model with the convenience of our ‘Fast-Lane’ kiosk initiative to create new synergies to the benefit of our customers and employees.”

“It’s great to see the expansion of vital services to Lombard,” said State Sen. Laura Ellman (21st District-Naperville). “I commend everyone involved with the project and look forward to hearing from my constituents about their experiences in this new DMV.”

“As elected officials, we need to do everything we can to make it pleasant and convenient for people to access the state services they need, whether they’re renewing a driver’s license, replacing the sticker on a car’s license plate, or getting a state ID,” said State Rep. Terra Costa Howard (42nd District-Lombard). “This new DMV facility in Lombard will provide a much-improved experience for people in our communities.”

The new location will include the following amenities:

• 24/7 DMV services. The facility will offer a drive-through kiosk, the first of its kind in the state. This provides motorists 24-hours-a-day, sevendays-a-week access to renew vehicle registrations, obtain license plate stickers and renew their driver’s licenses –

even outside of normal business hours.

• Cross-trained employees. The Lombard DMV is among the first facilities in the Chicago area constructed as a “One-Stop-Shop.” Driver services and vehicle services employees at “One-Stop-Shop” DMVs are crosstrained to provide both sets of services at all 30 customer stations.

• Fewer steps. Each of the 30 customer service stations is equipped with a payment station, compared to just five at the old location, so customers no longer need to visit multiple stations and encounter waits.

• Bigger space. At 13,600 square feet, the new facility is 1,600 square feet larger than the former DMV. More space coupled with the fact that all employees can service drivers and vehicle transactions will reduce lines and waits.

• Administrative hearings. The DMV will conduct reinstatement hearings to decide cases involving driver’s licenses suspended for driving-related offenses, including driving without insurance, driving under the influence, or having too many traffic violations.

• Charging stations. The Secretary of State’s office will offer 18 EV charging stations for customers beginning in 2025.

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PHOTO Elmhurst Independent

SUBMITTED PHOTO Emhurst Independent The new Lombard DMV facility at 837 Westmore-Mayers Road features 24-hours-a-day,

Sport S

York girls gymnastics team second at Rolling Meadows and Hersey invites

Veselovsky, Carone star in the early going for Dukes

By Mike Miazga CORRESPONDENT

The York girls gymnastics team has fared well in a trio of recent invitationals. The Dukes were second at the Rolling Meadows Al Gallate Holiday Invite, narrowly missing winning the team title. York was second with a score of 64.775. Prospect won the event with a score of 64.90.

York won the vault competition as a team with a combined 18.100 score and also won the bars team scoring at 16.875. On vault, York’s Melania Veselovsky won the event with a score of 9.40, while Mia Carone was fourth at 8.70. Maggie Munoz was fourth on uneven parallel bars at 8.45, while Hayley Schiltz was fifth at 8.425. Maeve Gibbs was fourth on beam with a score of 8.50, while Ava Nawrocki was 15th at 7.55. Nora Heflin tied for 17th on floor exercise with a score of 7.00, while Samantha King was 20th at 6.90.

York was also the runner-up at the annual Hersey High School Candy Cane invitational. York had a team score of 135.64. Vernon Hills won the event at 139.24. Veselovsky took seventh on vault with a score of 8.82, while Carone was ninth at 8.78. Schiltz took fourth on bars at 9.20, while Carone was eighth at 9.00. Munoz took 15th at 8.55.

On beam, Schiltz was eighth with a score of 8.65. Munoz tied for 12th at 8.50, while Veselovsky tied for 14th at 8.45 and Carone tied for 18th at 8.30. On floor, Veselovsky tied for fourth with a score of 9.40 and Schiltz was 11th at 8.92. Veselovsky was sixth in the all-around scoring at 35.57. Schiltz was eighth at 34.99 and Carone was 12th at 33.38. Earlier, the Dukes took third at the Hinsdale South Hornet Thanksgiving Invite. York finished with a team score of 134.37. Veselovsky tied for first on vault with a score of 9.45, while Schiltz tied for 10th at 8.50. Schiltz was eighth on beam at 8.85, while Veselovsky was 10th at

8.60. Veselovsky won the bars event at 9.30, while Schiltz was third at 8.80. Schiltz was sixth at 8.85, while Carone was ninth at 8.45. Veselovsky took fourth in the all-around competition at 35.45, while Schiltz was fifth at 35.00.

The Dukes were 129.30-124.40 West Suburban Conference Silver Division winners against Hinsdale Central. Veselovsky won the vault competition with a score of 9.35, while Carone was second at 8.90. Veselovsky won bars with a score of 9.15, while Schiltz was second at 8.25 and Carone was third at 8.05. Veselovsky won the beam at 8.75, while Schiltz was third at 8.40. Veselovsky won floor with a score of 8.80, while Carone was fourth at 8.00.

In the all-around scoring, Veselovsky was first at 36.05. Carone was second at 33.15 and Schiltz was third at 32.20. “The team has been doing a great job encouraging and motivating each other and making sure everyone stays on track,” York coach Ashley Samata said.

Samata noted York has been excelling on bars and vault. “Bars and vault are probably our strongest events so far,” she said. “All varsity team members have a full routine this year and by making a few minor adjustments, it has increased our event score by more than two points.”

Samata has been thrilled with the progress returning sophomore Veselovsky has made. “Melania has been working so hard to improve her pike Yurchenko vault,” she explained.

“That hard work has paid off and she has taken top finishes for the event at almost every competition thus far.”

Carone, a returning senior, also has been a key cog for the Dukes.

“Mia has come back with a vengeance this season after being out for a good portion of last season,” Samata said. “She has really stepped it up and strengthened her skills and routines all around. She has been working so hard to improve her routine.

Evers, sophomore

nia Veselovsky and junior

For the first time in her gymnastics career, she successfully completed a varsity bar routine, and I couldn’t be more proud of her.”

Samata explained York currently has two injured freshmen out at the varsity level. “I want everyone to stay healthy and hopefully injury free,” she said. “Due to having two injured freshmen, we have not had a full varsity lineup. We are only able to put four girls up on each event instead of five. Our options for some

invitationals and duals are limited. It puts more pressure on the girls competing to hit their routines because there isn’t that fifth score for cushion. I’m looking forward to when they return, then each varsity team member will have the opportunity to showcase the event they are strongest and most consistent at. We have a chance to make it pretty far this season and these girls are proving to me that they are capable of doing so. Right now, we’re not at our best so

I can only imagine what we will accomplish when everyone hits.”

At the freshman level, York took third at the Hinsdale Central freshman invite with a score of 111.70. Emilia Zachwieja tied for seventh on vault with a score of 8.20. Nooriya Suratwala was 19th on bars with a score of 6.50, while Ava Dicosola was 14th on beam with a score of 7.55. Dicosola also was 15th on floor at 7.70 and was 18th in the all-around scoring at 29.05.

York boys basketball team squares off against Hinsdale Central and Lake Zurich

Dukes open play in 50th Jack Tosh Holiday Classic today; Tournament runs through New Year’s Eve

By Mike Miazga

CORRESPONDENT

The York boys basketball team dropped a pair of recent games to Hinsdale Central and Lake Zurich ahead of the start of its 50th annual Jack Tosh Holiday Classic tournament.

York lost 65-44 in West Suburban Conference Silver Division play to Hinsdale Central. “Hinsdale Central is a good team,” York coach Mike

Dunn noted. “They beat Downers North and just beat Lemont and have won five or six in a row. We played very well and did some decent things but ran out of gas in the second half.”

Senior Connor Fitzgerald led the Dukes with 15 points, while junior Hunter Stepanich added 13 points.

The Dukes then dropped a 46-44 non-conference game in overtime to North Suburban Conference entrant Lake Zurich. Fitzgerald led the

Dukes with 14 points, while Stepanich had 10 points. “We had an eightpoint lead in the fourth quarter and had a couple bad turnovers and Lake Zurich got it into overtime,” Dunn said. “It was a tough loss. We’re trying to find ourselves. We didn’t take care of the basketball and that’s kind of why we ended up the way we ended up.”

The two losses put York at 4-5 overall and 0-2 in West Suburban

Silver play after the Hinsdale Central setback. The Dukes had a conference game against Proviso West postponed recently. “I thought we had some good practices recently and the football kids are working themselves into basketball shape,” Dunn said. “We can see that. We put ourselves in a position to win the basketball game against Lake Zurich and they put the pressure on us, and we didn’t take

care of the ball. We are better than that. If we are going to be a good team we have to be better at taking care of the basketball and we didn’t do that against Lake Zurich.” Dunn said Stepanich and Fitzgerald, in particular, have been strong for York, as has junior Costa Kampas, who recently announced on “X” that he received an offer from NCAA

SUBMITTED PHOTO Elmhurst Independent

The York girls gymnastics team recently took second at the Rolling Meadows and Hersey invitationals and took third at the Hinsdale South invite. Pictured from left: senior Hayley Schiltz, freshman Kate

Maggie Munoz, senior captain Mia Carone, freshman Lily Zmrhal, sophomore Mela-

Samantha King.

Elmhurst Bears’ Mitey Mites finish second in national competition

Ava Falduto of Elmhurst is a member of the Penn State University women’s volleyball team that won the NCAA Division I national championship on Sunday, Dec. 22. Falduto, who graduated from IC Catholic Prep, is pictured with her parents (Jen and John) after the Nittany Lions defeated Louisville 25-23, 32-34, 25-20, 25-17 in Sunday’s championship match at the KFC Yum! Center in Louisville. Falduto provided two assists and 14 digs in her team’s victory over the Cardinals on Sunday. Penn State’s women’s volleyball program, which has now won eight national titles, finished its 2024 championship season with a record of 35-2.

The Elmhurst Bears’ Mitey Mites, a cheerleading team of 34 fourth-graders, won a second-place trophy at the 2024 Pop Warner Super Bowl and National Cheer & Dance Championships, which took place Dec. 7-14 in Orlando, Florida. The Mitey Mites, who are pictured at this month’s event in Florida, hit zero (performed their routine without deductions) and placed second out of 15 teams in their division at the national event. Two other Elmhurst Bears’ cheer teams participated in the competition. The Bears’ JV team placed fourth out of 13 teams in its level. The Bears’ Junior Pee Wee team placed 12th out of 17 teams in its level. Both of those teams also hit zero during their performances in Florida.

Budget pressures could impact K-12 funding

By Peter Hancock CAPITOL NEWS ILLINOIS

U12 baseball action

Anthony Bucolo fires a pitch during a recent U12 baseball game.

Public schools in Illinois have enjoyed several consecutive years of substantial increases in state funding, thanks largely to steady growth in state revenues and a new funding formula that lawmakers approved in 2018.

But whether that can continue into the upcoming fiscal year is an open question that state lawmakers will have to face when they return to the Statehouse in January.

With budget forecasters predicting flat revenue growth over the next year and continued demands for increased spending in other areas of the budget such as pension costs and health care, members of the Illinois State Board of Education were told recently that they are now in a differ-

• Basketball

ent fiscal environment.

“I do not envy anybody involved in that process because it won’t be a fun time,” Eric Noggle, revenue manager of the legislature’s Commission on Government Forecasting and Accountability, or COGFA, told the board.

COGFA is a nonpartisan agency that provides economic and budgetary analysis to the General Assembly. It operates independently of the Governor’s Office of Management and Budget, or GOMB, although the two agencies are often in agreement in their general findings and analysis.

district based on factors such as total student enrollment, poverty rates, and the number of English language learners in the district. The adequacy target includes both state aid and money the district is able to raise on its own through local property taxes.

The law then directs that the new money each year be sent to districts that are furthest away from their adequacy target. The annual funding increases are supposed to continue until all districts reach at least 90 percent of their adequacy target.

Veselovsky, a sophomore, has been a key driver in the success of the York girls gymnastics team, which has logged a pair of runner-up finishes and a third-place finish at invitational events in recent weeks. Veselovsky won the vault title at Rolling Meadows, won bars at Hinsdale South, tied for first on vault at Hinsdale South and won the all-around scoring in a West Suburban Silver dual-meet win against Hinsdale Central after winning all four individual events.

(Continued from page 15)

Division I Cornell University for football. “Hunter has been outstanding for us,” Dunn said. “He’s averaging close to a double-double since he has come back from football (13 points, 7 rebounds). He’s been really good. Costa is getting better and has played very well lately. Connor Fitzgerald scored in double figures the last two games and has been big for us. The key for us is cutting down turnovers and rebounding. We didn’t do that well against Lake Zurich.” York opens play at the Tosh against Minooka tonight at 8 p.m. in the Campbell gym in a first-round game of the 32-team annual boys basketball holiday extravaganza. “As usual, it’s a loaded field,” Dunn said. “It’s the 50th and we’re excited about that. We think it’s the best tournament from top to bottom 1-32 in terms of depth of quality teams. It’s awesome. We’re looking forward to playing in it.”

In November, GOMB issued a report projecting a $3.2 billion deficit in the fiscal year that begins July 1, 2025.

That was based on projections of essentially flat revenue growth of about $53.4 billion, and a 6 percent increase in spending due to statutorily required increases in things like pension contributions, Medicaid and state employee health care costs, and PreK-12 education.

In the current fiscal year, state spending on public schools totals just under $11 billion, or about 20 percent of the state’s $53 billion General Revenue Fund Budget.

Two factors are primarily responsible for the demand for increased state spending on schools. One is the 2018 funding formula, known as the Evidence-Based Funding model, that calls for annual increases of at least $350 million.

That law sets out a formula for determining what would be an “adequate” level of funding for each

But some advocates argue the state needs to increase its evidence-based funding by more than the minimum $350 million each year.

“One thing that we know is that three out of four children in Illinois are still in underfunded districts. That’s more than 1 million students,” Jelani Saadiq, director of government relations for the advocacy group Advance Illinois, told the board during the public comment portion of its meeting. “The latest school report card shows continued challenges with chronic absenteeism and lagging recovery in math. We need to set our schools up for success in addressing these challenges in the absence of federal stimulus funds by doubling down on our EBF investment moving forward.”

The other factor driving increases in public school spending is known as “mandatory categorical” spending, or MCAT, which includes such things as transportation costs, the state’s free breakfast and lunch program and the cost of educating children in foster care.

CHRIS FOX PHOTO Elmhurst Independent

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SUBMITTED PHOTO Elmhurst Independent

Business & Service

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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.

limitation or discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, disability, familiar/ status or national origin, or an intention to make any such preference, limitation or discrimination. Familial status includes children under the age of 18 living with parents or legal custodians, pregnant women and people securing custody of children under 18. This newspaper will not knowingly accept any advertising for real estate which is in violation of the law. Our readers are hereby informed that all dwellings advertised in this newspaper are available on an equal opportunity basis. To complain of discrimination call HUD tollfree at 1-900-669-9777. The toll-free tele phone number for the hearing impaired is 1-800-927-9275. EQUAL HOUSING OPPORTUNITY

Montini Catholic students deliver gifts, food to ‘adopted’ families for Christmas

After completing a successful Golden Gobbler Food Drive in November, Montini Catholic students began the second phase of their “Season of Giving” with their Adopt-A-Family gift drive, which began in early December. Each year, Montini Catholic students, under the guidance of Montini’s Campus Ministry, “adopt” several local families with the goal of giving them a very Merry Christmas by providing much needed items (clothing, hats, gloves) as well as toys and gifts. In late November, students (via homerooms) received wish lists informing them of the number of family members, their genders, ages and sizes. In December, Montini’s Peer Ministry Team hosted a “candy gram” drive and raffles, with money going to supplement the Adopt-A-Family donations. Montini alumni were also invited to participate with gift card donations. On Friday, Dec. 13, students enjoyed an extra-long homeroom period to wrap their gifts. On Saturday, Dec. 14, several students from Montini’s Peer Ministry team were honored to have the experience of personally delivering the gifts to their families. “Being able to deliver these gifts to the families has been such a joy,” said Peer Ministry leader Sienna Skarda, a senior from Elmhurst. “This was the second year that I was able to do this and both years have been so heartwarming. Knowing that our Montini community came together to raise the amount of money that we did in order to give these kids an amazing Christmas is so special. The best part about delivering these gifts would have to be the smiles on the kids’ faces and knowing that on Christmas morning they have so many gifts to open.” Shown here from left to right, are Montini Peer Ministers Hannah Bushati, senior; Skarda; Liliana Cruz, senior of Elmhurst; and Collins Whitfield, senior, delivering candy grams.

Athlete of the Month Athlete of the Month

Marc Gamble

We nominate Marc Gamble as our athlete of the month for Timothy Christian High School. He is a junior, 6’ 7” wing player on the Varsity Basketball team. Marc is off to a fantastic start for the 2024-25 basketball season and was named to the All-Tournament Team at the Coal City/ Manteno Thanksgiving Tournament, where he averaged 23 points per game! Marc continued his strong play by posting 30-points in a win against cross-town rival Westmont! He is also leading the Trojans in rebounding, averaging 7 per game, and in steals, with 2 per game. We look forward to seeing Marc continue to excel on the basketball court as the season progresses.

Recognized by