EI062024

Elmhurst Independent

Making a monster

Nora Birman (right), 8, creates a monster while her sister Lia, 6, and brother Alex, 3, look on. Their mother brought them to Family Day at the Elmhurst Art Museum to

City holds Downtown Plan Workshop

More than 100 come out to share vision of the future

By Dee Longfellow FOR THE ELMHURST INDEPENDENT

On Wednesday, June 12, around 110 people came to Elmhurst University for a Downtown Plan Workshop to develop a vision of the future of the community and to obtain public input.

This workshop came on the heels of the public workshop held on Tues-

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day, Feb. 13, which offered residents and stakeholders a chance to express their thoughts before any plans or recommendations were drafted. Attendees were given the planning process and the project schedule.

Also on Feb. 13, there was a listening session targeted to Elmhurst’s corporate citizens, property and business owners, as well as developers, as an important downtown stakeholder group.

The session served to establish a dialogue with those members of the business community who can offer keen insight and a distinct perspective, which are crucial to the downtown plan’s ultimate success.

Downtown Plan Visioning Workshop

Nik Davis, AICP, principal with Houseal Lavigne, led the workshop by offering a short introduction to the method and how the exercises would unfold. Participants were invited to work together in groups to share their ideas, thoughts and concerns in various categories.

“Think about what you want Elmhurst to be in another 20 years,” Davis said. “We want to capture the community’s desires, needs and aspirations.

“Think about what you go to other towns for. A certain restaurant, a store, a drycleaner? And then think about what Elmhurst has that draws people from other communities.”

He pointed out that there is an Existing Condition Overview map available on the City’s web site. That became a starting point of the evening’s exercise, as a large map of the City was available at each discussion table with a set of colored markers to be used to mark areas where a suggestion was made.

For example, one table drew an orange rectangle down York Street and Addison from 3rd Street to the railroad tracks, requesting it either be a designated bike path or at least have

bike lanes added.

Categories people asked to reflect upon were:

• Vehicular and parking including roadway improvements, intersection improvements, poor congestion, heavy traffic circulation, traffic signals, public transit, parking lots, parking decks.

• Pedestrian and bicycle including sidewalk connections, ADA accessibility, pathways, bike routes, pedestrian walkways, and safety concerns.

• Streetscape is a broad term meaning everything that makes up the street, including sidewalks, landscaping, planters, outdoor dining, benches, trash receptables, public art installations and other site furnishings and amenities.

• Public gathering spaces, plazas, and green space used for community socializing.

• Signage includes gateway features, wayfinding, directional, archways, monuments, parking and downtown amenities.

• Opportunity sites and catalyst sites, which includes land-use types including residential, commercial, office, mixed use, etc. What development would you like to see, i.e. restaurants, apartments, places of entertainment? Are there existing buildings that need enhancement or should be considered for redevelopment?

Where do we go from here?

The event concluded with each group offering its ideas followed by a general agreement of a vision for downtown Elmhurst and what projects and improvements may be helpful to fulfill that vision.

The next step in the process is for Davis to take these findings along with those from the previous workshops back to Houseal Lavigne to develop a preliminary plan. That plan is expected to be unveiled before the entire community at an open house event in the future.

Nik Davis, AICP, principal with Houseal Lavigne, led the workshop by offering a short introduction to the method and how the exercises would unfold. Lavigne made the City’s previous downtown plan and will eventually present a new plan featuring feedback from the workshop.

This is an Existing Condition Overview map that became a starting point of the evening’s exercise. A large map of the city was available at each discussion table with a set of colored markers to be used to mark areas where a suggestion was made. More photos on page 5.

DEE LONGFELLOW PHOTOS Elmhurst Independent

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U.S. Bank in Elmhurst robbed on June 13

At approximately 3:25 p.m. on Thursday, June 13, Elmhurst Police responded to a bank robbery that occurred minutes earlier at U.S. Bank, 536 S. York Road in Elmhurst.

The armed suspect is still at large and is described as a male, in his 20s, 6 feet tall, average build, wearing a gray face mask, dark baseball cap, black hooded sweatshirt, blue jeans, and dark blue backpack.

The suspect was last seen exiting the north door into the parking lot. He was reportedly armed with a handgun.

Police conducted a search and determined the suspect was no longer in the immediate area.

The FBI said the suspect is believed to be responsible for three other bank robberies at U.S. Bank locations in the past year—two at a bank in Schaumburg and one at the same Elmhurst bank.

Robberies at U.S. Bank locations

• Robbery of the U.S. Bank located at 60 S. Meacham Road, Schaumburg, on Oct. 18, 2023

• Robbery of the U.S. Bank located at 536 S. York Road, Elmhurst, on Dec. 16, 2023

• Robbery of the U.S. Bank located at 60 S. Meacham Road, Schaumburg, on March 6, 2024

Anyone with information or video that may assist the investigation is asked to call Elmhurst Police at 630530-3050.

The FBI is also asking for the

An Elmhurst Police Department evidence technician exits the back entrance at U.S. Bank, 536 S. York Road, following a robbery at 3:25 p.m. Thursday, June 13. The FBI said the robbery suspect is believed to be responsible for three other bank robberies at U.S. Bank locations in the past year—two at a bank in at 60 S. Meacham Road in Schaumburg (in October 2023 and March 2024) and one at the same Elmhurst bank in December.

public’s help identifying the suspect from the June 13 robbery and three recent incidents believed to be relat-

ed. The public can report tips (even anonymously) at 312-421-6700 and at tips.fbi.gov.

Packet pickup set for

4 on the 4th

Packet pickup dates are set for the 19th edition of the Elmhurst Running Club 4 on the 4th, a celebratory Fourth of July tradition in Elmhurst. Registered participants in the 4-mile and Kids 1K can pick up numbers and shirts at Fleet Feet Elmhurst, 124 E. Schiller, on Saturday June 29, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Wednesday July 3, from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Packet pickup and registration also will be available at 5:45 race morning at the Elmhurst University race venue.

According to race director Bob Richards of the Elmhurst Running Club, registration has been going at a record pace for the 4-mile, which starts at 7:15 a m. and the Kids (ages 5-12) 1K, which goes off at 8:20.

“We really urge people who want to run but haven’t signed up to do so quickly,” Richards said. “And we hope many will take advantage of pre-race packet pickup.”

To register and for more race information, including volunteer opportunities, go to www.4on4th.run.

PETE CRUGER PHOTO/SUBMITTED PHOTOS Rock Valley Publishing

LONGFELLOW PHOTO Elmhurst Independent

Working together

On Wednesday, June 12, interested residents came to the lower level of the Frick Center on the campus of Elmhurst University to work together at the Downtown Plan Visioning Workshop.

A common goal

At the Downtown Plan Visioning Workshop, participants were invited to work together in groups to share their ideas, thoughts and concerns in various categories such as pedestrians and bicycles, public gathering places, streetscape and others. See story on page 2.

DuPage Foundation grants nearly $940,000 to 52 area health and human services organizations

DuPage Foundation has announced awarding $938,077 to 52 essential health and human services not-forprofit organizations across DuPage County through the spring cycle of its Community Impact grant program (formerly Community Needs grant program).

A Grant Open House took place June 5 at the foundation’s office in Downers Grove. Grant recipients received their checks, had their photos taken, enjoyed refreshments, and mingled with other not-for-profit organizations along with DuPage Foundation staff, volunteer leaders, and partners.

The following organizations received a Community Impact grant:

360 Youth Services: $25,000

AbilityLinks: $5,000

Assistance League Chicagoland West: $18,000

Bridge Communities, Inc.: $25,000

CASA of DuPage County, Inc.: $25,000

Chicago Dental Society Foundation: $25,000

DuPage Senior Citizens Council:

$12,000

DuPagePads: $25,000

Easterseals DuPage & Fox Valley: $25,000

Elmhurst Walk-In Assistance Network: $12,000

Elmhurst-Yorkfield Food Pantry:

$11,000

Evangelical Child & Family Agency: $10,000

Family Focus: $20,000

Glen House Food Pantry: $8,234

Hamdard Health Alliance: $25,000

HCS Family Services: $25,000

Healthcare Alternative Systems, Inc.: $25,000

Hope’s Front Door: $10,000

Little Friends, Inc.: $15,000

LOVE Christian Clearinghouse: $12,000

Marklund: $5,000

Mayslake Village: $3,000

Metropolitan Asian Family Services: $15,000

Metropolitan Family Services DuPage: $25,000

NAMI DuPage: $25,000

Naperville Elderly Homes: $15,000

Neighborhood Food Pantries: $25,000

Northeast DuPage Family and Youth Services: $25,000

Northern Illinois Food Bank: $25,000

OLI Gardens: $10,000

Outreach: $25,000

Path To Recovery Foundation: $10,000

Peoples Community Church: $5,000

Ray Graham Association: $25,000

Reclam13: $23,250

Repeat Boutique Center: $25,000

Ride Assist Naperville: $7,500

SamaraCare: $25,000

Sharing Connections: $25,000

Society of St. Vincent dePaul Conference: $4,500

Special Kids Day: $6,000

Teen Parent Connection: $25,000

The GardenWorks Project: $18,000

The Outreach House: $15,593

United Cerebral Palsy Seguin of Greater Chicago: $23,000

VNA Health Care: $25,000

Warm Coats for Cool Kids: $22,000

West Suburban Community Pantry: $25,000

Western DuPage Special Recreation Association: $10,000

World Relief Chicagoland: $25,000

Xilin Association: $12,000

YWCA Metropolitan Chicago: $25,000

“We’re thrilled to announce the awarding of these grants to essential health and human service organizations across our community,” said Roger McDougal, DuPage Foundation trustee and Grant Committee chair.

“This vital investment will directly empower these organizations to continue their critical work, making a real and lasting difference in the lives of countless residents. By supporting such a diverse range of services, we are fostering a healthier, stronger community for all.”

“We are proud to share that 83 percent of eligible grant applications submitted this spring were funded,” said Barb Szczepaniak, DuPage Foundation vice president for programs. “Our Community Impact grant program exists because of generous donors who have made unrestricted gifts or established endowed field-of-interest funds

at the Foundation in support of our community and their favorite causes.

“These ‘forever funds’ are invested wisely and generate income that annually fuels our Community Impact grantmaking. While the number of requests we receive always exceeds the amount of funding available in our budget, this year we received $480,000 in additional support for grants thanks to the generosity of several area donors and Foundation donor-advised fund representatives who supplemented our spring grant budget allowing us to set a new record from a single cycle. We are extremely grateful for their investment. That’s the power of coordinated impact at work.”

SMOKING, EYESIGHT, AND VISION LOSS

Cigarette smoking can affect your eyes’ retina, lens, macula, and optic nerve, all of which are essential for clear, healthy vision. Smoking increases your risk of two common, yet serious age-related eye diseases: macular degeneration and cataracts. Many people experience few to no symptoms during the earlier stages of these eye diseases, but over time they can affect vision and lead to blindness. Symptoms of smoking-related eye diseases include blurry vision, the inability to see details like facial expressions, light sensitivity, poor night vision, and an increased need for light to read or do close tasks. Although more research is needed, smoking is suspected of contributing to other eye diseases like glaucoma, thyroid eye disease, and diabetic retinopathy. If you experience a change in your vision, it is important to see your eye care professional immediately to prevent additional or unwarranted damage to your eyes and vision. Routine eye exams are an important aspect of maintaining one’s overall health. SKOWRON EYE CARE has been providing personal, cutting-edge eye care for patients in Elmhurst and surrounding areas since 1983.

THURSDAY, JUNE 20, 2024

NEXT CONCERT IS JULY 11TH

with Eastern European folk music and acapella singers, Yuriy’s Klezmer Band & Chorus of DuPage!!

in for all your concert treats!

We’re scooping Italian Ice and Gelatos on the patio! Tuesday-Saturday 5-9pm and Sundays 5-8pm

We are honored to have, Petty Cash, Chicago’s ultimate Tom Petty & Johnny Cash cover band play this evening. Be ready to dance and sing along. Bring your lawn chair or blanket and enjoy an evening of musical entertainment as the sun sets for the day! alcoholic beverages in the park is not permitted per Elmhurst Park District policy. * For more information go to:

Police beat

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

Battery

June 10

Allie B. Williams, 62, of Chicago, was issued a citation for battery in the 100 block of W. Diversey at 8:10 a.m. Police said that according to Williams, the victim was harassing her and she followed the victim into her office, where a physical altercation occurred.

Criminal damage, trespass to property

June 6

A victim in the 600 block of N. Michigan told police he observed his damaged mailbox, mounting post, and cement block laying in the middle of the street. It appears the mailbox, post, and cement were forcefully pulled from the ground.

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

June 12

A 24-year-old Elmhurst man was charged with four counts of domestic battery in the 900 block of N. Virginia at 8:04 a.m. Police said that subsequent to a report for a domestic, the victims related that they were attacked by the suspect. The reporting officer made contact with the suspect, who admitted to battering the victims during an argument.

DUI, DUI-drugs,

transportation of open alcohol, possession of open alcohol, consumption of alcohol by a minor

June 11

Craig Crawford, 36, of Chicago, was issued a citation for open alcohol, while Deshawn Adams, 30, of Chicago, was issued citations for driving while license suspended, speeding and possession of cannabis subsequent to a traffic stop near Butterfield and Cambridge at 1 a.m.

June 9

Robert Evans, 30, of Chicago, was charged with DUI, possession of a concealed carry weapon while under the influence, no insurance and improper lighting subsequent to a traffic stop near I-290 and North at 3:28 a.m.

June 8

Abel Lopez Garcia, 31, of Bensenville, was issued a citation for possession of open alcohol in a motor vehicle, while Eliseo Garcia Lopez, 45, of Bensenville, was charged with DUI, improper lane usage and improper lighting subsequent to a traffic stop near Lake and Route 83 and 8:31 p.m.

Chrysania Fleege, 27, of Elk Grove Village, was charged with DUI, improper lane usage,

transportation of open alcohol and unlawful possession of cannabis subsequent to a traffic stop near Route 83 and I-290 at 3:54 a.m.

Fleeing, eluding

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

Identity theft, fraud

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

Possession of cannabis in a vehicle

According to information provided last week by the Elmhurst Police Department, police reported three incidents of possession of cannabis by either the driver of a vehicle or a passenger: Brett Moncer, 29, of Holiday, Florida, near Myrtle and North at 8:30 p.m. June 6; Jesus Alba Martinez, 25, of Glendale Heights, near Berteau and North at 9:15 p.m. June 9; Rodrigo Dorando-Martinez, 28, of Denver, Colorado, and Pedro Garcia-Rivera, 30, of Fountain, Colorado, in the 300 block of S. Route 83 at 4:39 p.m. June 10.

Suspicious incident

June 12

A complainant in the 400 block of S. Mitchell told police she observed two unknown white male subjects standing in her garage who then left on foot. No items were removed from her garage and nothing appeared to have been damaged.

June 7

A complainant reported he observed a vehicle with an obstructed plate traveling northbound on Monterey. The complainant noticed the occupants of the vehicle had masks over their faces and coverings over their head. The vehicle was gone prior to officers arrival and there were no signs of criminal activity.

A victim reported at 11:45 p.m. that an unknown suspect driving a silver sedan shot her with an airsoft gun while she was walking near North and Maple. The silver sedan was last seen westbound on North Avenue.

June 3-June 4

A victim in the 400 block of N. Emery reported four of his wife’s rings were missing from their home. The victim had put them in their dress shirt pocket and did not know whether the rings were stolen or misplaced, as they had HVAC work done at their house. The victim requested the incident be documented for insurance purposes.

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

June 10

Jesus Acevedo, 25, of Denver, Colorado, was charged with retail theft at a store in the 300 block of S. Route 83 at 4:39 p.m.

A victim at a food store in the 200 block of S. Route 83 told police that while shopping, an unknown person(s) stole her wallet out of her purse and fraudulently used her credit card to purchase gift cards. The victim was able to freeze her credit cards before any other fraudulent purchases were made.

June 8

A complainant at a pharmacy in the 100 block of Robert. T. Palmer Drive reported that an unknown suspect described as a white male took merchandise and exited the pharmacy without paying. The suspect left the area on foot and was last seen running northbound across Robert T. Palmer Drive.

Sept. 1, 2023

A victim at a business reported she parked her semi-truck in the parking lot of the above location. The victim returned a few months later to discover the truck was no longer parked in the lot. The victim further related the truck is equipped with GPS tracking, which indicated the truck has made multiple border crossings between Texas as Mexico.

Unlawful use of a weapon

June 9

Yolistlaman Cervantes, 25, of Cicero, was charged with three counts of aggravated unlawful use of a weapon, unlawful possession of cannabis by driver, tinted windows and improper display of registration subsequent to a traffic stop near First and West at 5:15 p.m.

Warrant arrest

June 7

Police said that Phillip Breckler, 37, of Elmhurst, was found to have an active warrant out of the DuPage County Sheriff’s Office in the 200 block of S. Route 83 at 6:40 p.m. Breckler also was charged with resisting arrest and was transported to the DuPage County Jail on the warrant, according to police.

Court grants state’s motion to deny pre-trial release for two men accused of unrelated gun charges

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 deny two men pre-trial release in unrelated weapons charges out of Naperville.

Tony Thompson, 19, of Joliet, appeared at First Appearance Court and was charged with one count of possession of a machine gun (Class X felony), one count of possession of a firearm—no FOID (Class 3 felony) and two counts of aggravated unlawful use of a weapon (Class 4 felony).

In an unrelated case, Trensae Ware, 24, of Naperville, also appeared at First Appearance Court and was charged with one count of unlawful use of a weapon by a felon (Class 3 felony) and one count of reckless discharge of a firearm (Class 4 felony).

On June 6 at approximately 8:09 p.m., officers with the Naperville Police Department allegedly observed a vehicle turn out of a Wendy’s parking lot coming close to the officers’ vehicle. The vehicle appeared to jerk partially into the roadway, coming close to the officer’s vehicle.

The officer proceeded in front of the vehicle, allowed it to turn, and then made a U-turn to get behind it. Once behind the vehicle, the officer conducted a traffic stop for expired license plates.

While speaking to the driver, the officer heard what sounded like the slide of a handgun rack from inside the vehicle.

The officer approached the individual in the passenger seat, later identified as Thompson, while awaiting backup.

When backup arrived, the officer asked Thompson to exit the vehicle. When officers searched the vehicle, they found a Glock 17 9mm firearm with a switch capable of making the firearm fully automatic underneath Thompson’s seat. Thompson was taken into custody at that time.

• In an unrelated incident on June 6 at approximately 8:07 p.m., Naperville police officers on patrol were traveling behind a

vehicle allegedly driven by Ware, who was observed to not be wearing a seatbelt. Officers heard what sounded like a gunshot come from the vehicle and observed the vehicle to lightly swerve and shake. Officers conducted a traffic stop.

After approaching the vehicle, officers located a cannabis shake on the gearshift and an open bottle of tequila in the rear pocket of the passenger’s seat. All four occupants were asked out of the vehicle. It is alleged that as Ware exited, a spent shell casing was found on the driver’s seat. The vehicle was then searched, and a loaded .45 caliber firearm was located under the front passenger seat. The bullets contained in the firearm matched the spent shell casing found on the driver’s seat.

Near where the driver’s left foot would have been while seated, officers observed a bullet hole entrance leading outward from within the vehicle, and they observed no exit hole. After testing all occupants for gunshot residue, residue was found only on Ware’s hands.

A 9 mm handgun was also located in the rear passenger compartment of the vehicle, that does not match the discharged shell casing.

“I commend the Naperville Police Department for their efforts on these two cases,” Berlin said. “Their commitment to public safety is second to none. Once again, their efforts have led to the removal of dangerous weapons from those who are not legally allowed to possess them.”

“We will continue to proactively patrol our town and work to get those who are illegally in possession of firearms held accountable,” said Arres. “I continue to be thankful for the hard work our officers put in on a daily basis and the assistance we receive from State’s Attorney Berlin and his staff.”

The next court appearance for both men is scheduled for arraignment on July 1. Thompson’s case will be heard in front of Judge Brian Jacobs, while Ware’s case will be heard in Judge Daniel Guerin.

Viewpoint

United Community Concerns Association (UCCA) thanks Elmhurst

UCCA (United Community Concerns Association) would like to thank everyone who participated in and donated to this year’s Taste of the Town: Dining for a Cause held May 16, at Wilder Mansion. We sold out! More than 250 guests enjoyed delicious food and beverage tastings from 15 area businesses and raised more than $28,000 for UCCA. Money raised will be used toward the purchase of food and food gift cards for Elmhurst Community School District 205 children and their families who are experiencing difficult times.

Thank you to our Participating Restaurants: Bottle Theory, Café Liberty, Cuvée, Ella’s Italian Pub, Firewater BBQ, Francesca’s Amici, Golden Boy Barbecue, Hello Donut, Kilwins Elmhurst, Lezza Spumoni & Desserts, Pilot Pete’s Coffee & Treats, Primos Locos, Roberto’s Ristorante & Pizzeria, and Tannins Wine Bar & Boutique.

Thank you to our Sponsors: 7-11, BMO Harris / Rob Hallberg, Bonheur White Glove Serving, Inc., Bottle Theory, Café Liberty, Car-

Sandro Sez...

10 most overplayed songs (or annoying, or both) by bands in the ’burbs

ousel Flowers, Community Bank of Elmhurst, Edward Jones / Michael Hirsch, Elmhurst Bank, Elmhurst Independent, Elmhurst Park District, Elmhurst Public Library, Euclid Beverage, Great American Exteriors, Guaranteed Rate / John Noldan, Kelly Stetler / Compass, LW Reedy, Lakeside Bank, Mehta Motors / My Car Wash, Roberto’s Ristorante & Pizzeria, Stolper State Farm, Tail Gate, Tannins, W3Body, and Wilkins Hyundai Mazda.

UCCA has been providing food to local residents for 45 years. This past year UCCA provided food and paper products to almost 290 families at our Holiday Food Drive and provided them with food gift cards to be used towards the purchase of fresh meat and produce. These families also received food gift cards four times during the year. UCCA also offered families an opportunity to shop at Mobile Food Pantries nine times and provided food gift cards to senior citizens residing at Greencastle of Elmhurst three times throughout the year.

Editor’s note: Previously published columns by Mike Sandrolini are being re-published periodically on the Viewpoint page. This column was originally published in 2019.

There are plenty of talented cover bands in the suburbs, but many of them must be sharing the same set list.

How about playing a little Wang Chung, Chaka Khan or Kajagoogoo? (Bonus points if you remember Kajagoogoo from the 1980s.) Or even Mr. Mister or Sister Sledge? Anything, except for the following: Honorable mention: Summer of ‘69 (Bryan Adams 1985)—The best days of my life are whenever I don’t have to hear about how the band fell apart when Jimmy quit and Jody got married.

10. “Livin’ on a Prayer” (Bon Jovi 1986)—I like Bon Jovi, and the intro to their signature tune rocks. That said, the story of Tommy working on the docks and being down on his luck, while his sniveling significant other, Gina, dreams of running away, is getting old. Perhaps Gina could use a hug, but in this case, Tommy needs to

By MIKE SANDROLINI Columnist

exercise some tough love. “Yo, Gina, it’s time to work the diner all day and bring home your pay for love, so suck it up, buttercup.”

9. “Footloose” (Kenny Loggins 1984)—”Ooh-wee, Marie … whoa, Milo.” Admittedly, I get a kick out of watching all you lovely ladies trip over yourselves as you stampede to the dance floor once that familiar guitar riff to “Footloose” commences.

8. “Summer Nights” (John Travolta and Olivia Newton-John, Grease 1978)—Hard to believe the Grease album went eight times platinum despite having two of the most overplayed songs ever recorded as part of the album. (“You’re the One That I Want” being the other.)

7. “Uptown Funk” (Bruno Mars and Mark Ronson 2014)—Ahh, yes. The song that made Jackson,

Mississippi famous and introduced Michelle Pfeiffer to a new generation. Someone suggested in a tweet they were going to name their first son Bruno. Since I’ve heard one too many parents call their sons “buddy” at Walmart (“c’mon buddy”; “let’s go buddy”), hearing a parent say “c’mon Bruno” would be refreshing.

6. “Shut up and Dance” (Walk the Moon 2014)—This tune by a band called Walk the Moon makes me want to walk the plank. Shut up and play another song (puh-leese).

5. “Brown Eyed Girl” (Van Morrison 1967)—What if you’re a blue-eyed girl, a green-eyed girl, a hazel-eyed girl or a one-eyed girl? I see a discrimination lawsuit on the horizon, and the payout could equal the national debt.

4 Tennessee Whiskey (David Allen Coe 1981)—“Tennessee Whiskey” gained new popularity when Chris Stapleton and Justin Timberlake teamed up to sing it during the 2015 Country Music Association Awards. Unfortunately, they opened Pandora’s box. Now,

Left to right: Jason Leung, Avon Lok, Carrie Krol, and Jay and Val Eisenhardt are pictured at United Community Concerns Association’s Taste of the Town: Dining for a Cause on May 16.

SUBMITTED PHOTO Elmhurst Independent

Combating the fentanyl epidemic and supporting those in recovery

By U.S. Rep. Raja Krishnamoorthi

VERNELL MELKA

Vernell Melka, 102, passed away peacefully from natural causes at her home on June 8, 2024.

On May 28, I joined several Cook County officials, including Cook County Board of Commissioners President Toni Preckwinkle, at a press conference to address the ongoing fentanyl epidemic across our state.

Since taking office in 2017, I’ve been proud to support legislation expanding funding for front-line health care providers and increasing the availability of naloxone. I’ve also secured funding for treatment centers and diversion programs right here in Chicago.

But last year, when I was selected as Ranking Member of the Select Committee on the Strategic Competition Between the United States and the Chinese Communist Party (CCP), I also dedicated myself to tackling international aspects of this crisis.

It’s estimated that 97 percent of illegal fentanyl entering the U.S. comes from the People’s Republic of China

• Songs

(Continued from page 8)

just about every band in the Chicago area insists on playing it. I don’t drink, but I’ve been known to belly up to the bar and chug a Diet Coke before the end of the second verse.

3. “I Will Survive” (Gloria Gaynor 1978)—It’s been said that hell hath no fury like a woman scorned. I beg to differ. Fellas, you don’t want to get caught on any dance floor when the band cranks up the Women’s National Anthem (aka, “I Will Survive”). Just trust me on this one. Once I hear … “First I was afraid; I was petrified,” that’s my cue to take cover in my safe space (the men’s restroom) and curl up into the fetal position until I get the all-clear sign.

2. “Don’t Stop Believin’” (Journey 1981)—Journey has produced several monster hits, yet every band believes it’s their civic duty to cover this worn-out oldie. Sorry to spoil the ending for all you hopeless romantics, but “Don’t Stop Believin’ ” has been around 40 years. If just a small-town girl, living in a lonely world, hasn’t crossed paths by now with just a city boy, born and raised in south Detroit, on the midnight train going anywhere, they’re never going to meet, so Please Stop Believin’.

1. “Sweet Caroline” (Neil Diamond 1969)—Friends in a social group I regularly attend ask why I’m often late for events that involve listening to bands. It’s because I hold out hope that the house band will have already played arguably the most annoying/overplayed song of all time by the time I arrive. So many good Neil Diamond tunes; why has this one become a cult favorite? “Sweet Caroline … bop-bop-bop.” More like “Sweet Caroline … blah-blah-blah.”

(PRC). That means that if we stop the flow of fentanyl and its precursors—the chemicals specifically used to make fentanyl—from the PRC, it will save lives in Illinois and across the country.

That’s why my Committee spent months investigating the CCP’s role in this crisis, and a few weeks ago, I released a 64-page report summarizing our findings and identifying specific policy solutions to help victims

My investigation revealed that the CCP has not only turned a blind eye towards PRC companies that export fentanyl precursors for clearly illicit purposes, even when the U.S. has provided them with irrefutable evidence, but that it has actually been directly subsidizing the export of such chemicals. That means that CCP policy has been to provide tax breaks to encourage the production of the chemicals fueling the fentanyl epidemic.

In addition to supporting local efforts to address the impacts of the fentanyl epidemic, Congress has a critical role to play in cutting off the supply of these deadly drugs.

One of the top legislative recommendations from my investigation was enacting the FEND Off Fentanyl Act, which was signed into law just one week after my Committee released our report and called for the bill’s passage.

This is a sanctions and anti-money laundering law that will help combat the fentanyl crisis by targeting opioid traffickers and money launderers, making fentanyl less lucrative for traf-

fickers by making it harder to smuggle and profit from trafficking.

While an enormous amount of work remains to be done to end the fentanyl epidemic, the FEND Off Fentanyl Act is an important step forward.

Commemorating the 35th anniversary of the Tiananmen Square massacre

On June 4, I led a bipartisan commemoration for the victims of the Tiananmen Square Massacre with members of the House of Representatives as well as former Speakers Nancy Pelosi and Kevin McCarthy, as well as Chinese political dissidents.

The protests held in 1989 by Chinese students advocating for democracy, human rights, and freedom, were immortalized in the indelible image of a single, unidentified demonstrator facing down a line of 18 People’s Liberation Army tanks in defiance of the brutal oppression of the Chinese Communist Party (CCP).

People had a choice on that day: to stand with that man who stood up to power, or to stand with that tank, and the CCP’s brutal crackdown and repression.

Many dissidents, including some who joined me outside our Capitol, stood with that brave man. As a result, many Chinese people were exiled, or worse, while others chose, through action or inaction, to stand with the tanks and the CCP. Thirty-five years since have shown that the CCP’s advance against the freedom of the people of China has only continued.

When Chairman Xi Jinping says he will “crack down hard on subversion and separatist activities.” by those deemed as “enemy forces”, he is telling the world that the CCP will send those tanks again against anyone that stands up for freedom and democracy, declaring his own people enemies of the state.

We have seen this in Hong Kong through mess suppression, in Tibet through the mass relocation of Tibetans to “reeducation camps,” and in Xinjiang through the Uyghur Genocide.

As Ranking Member of the Select Committee on the Strategic Competition Between the United States and the CCP, I organized a June 4 press conference with members of both parties not only a commemoration, but also as a call to action.

We came together to send a unified message to the CCP that we would stand for freedom and democracy, joining with all those across the world ready to do the same.

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

Memorial service

KEITH OLSON

A memorial service to celebrate the life of Keith Olson will be held at Epiphany Lutheran Church in Elmhurst on Saturday, June 22, 2024 at 1:00 pm.

Vernell grew up in the suburb of Maywood, IL, where she lived next door to her cousins and belonged to a horseback riding club in high school. A devout Catholic, Vernell met the love of her life, Robert (Bob), while attending church and married him when he was on short military leave. Vernell and Bob had five children and were together for 61 years until his passing.

Vernell valued faith and family. She and Bob built a lake house where the family could connect; generations later, many formed lifetime bonds. When not at the lake, Vernell could often be found walking the beaches of Florida, playing golf, or admiring Peterbilt trucks. Vernell’s sharp memory transcended her age, which allowed her to maintain long-lasting and deep relationships until her last days. She will be remembered for her witty humor, love of chocolate, fast cars, purple, and hummingbirds, and distaste for cats, eating fish, and ice in her water.

Vernell was preceded in death by her husband, Robert (Bob), and her son, Robert (Pilar). She is survived by her four children: Danell (William), Donalyn (Paul), Thomas (Nancy), Debra (James), fourteen grandchildren, and twenty-four great-grandchildren.

A mass will be held at Immaculate Conception Church on June 28, 2024, at 9:30 a.m. The entombment will be at Queen of Heaven Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorials to the American Cancer Society, donate.cancer.org, are appreciated.

Court grants state’s motion to deny pre-trial release for convicted felon accused of possessing machine gun

Devon Redmond

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 deny pre-trial release for a Glendale Heights convicted felon accused of possessing a fully loaded gun that had been modified, making the weapon fully automatic.

Devon Redmond, 25, appeared at First Appearance Court and was charged with one count of possession of a loaded machine gun (Class X felony), one count of armed violence (Class X felony), one count of aggravated unlawful use of a weapon (Class 2 felony) and one count of possession of a controlled substance

(Class 4 felony).

On June 11 at approximately 8:05 p.m., officers set up surveillance on a vehicle that registers to Redmond, who is wanted on several outstanding no-bond arrest warrants out of DeKalb County.

It is alleged that officers observed Redmond, who was carrying a handbag, exit a residence and walk towards his vehicle, a white 2014 Nissan Altima. It is alleged that Redmond placed the handbag into the rear of the car directly behind and beneath the driver’s seat and then entered the car.

Officers immediately pinned Redmond’s vehicle at which time Redmond allegedly exited the vehicle and fled on foot. Following a brief foot chase, officers apprehended Redmond and placed him under arrest.

When searching the Altima, offi-

cers located a fully loaded Glock 23 with an extended magazine and one bullet in the chamber in Redmond’s handbag. The weapon had been modified with a switch capable of making the firearm fully automatic.

Officers also found numerous pills of suspected Xanax. Redmond is currently on parole for aggravated unlawful use of a weapon and aggravated fleeing and eluding a police officer.

“Within one week, the Naperville Police Department’s exceptional efforts have resulted in the removal of four dangerous firearms from those who are not legally allowed to possess them,” Berlin said. “What I find particularly disturbing in this case is the fact that the defendant, a convicted felon currently on parole with multiple active warrants out for his arrest, was allegedly in possession of a machine gun. I thank the Naperville

Police Department for their continued commitment to public safety.”

“Yesterday’s arrest is a testament to the diligent and proactive work of our police officers, who work tirelessly to protect our community,” Arres said. “The fact this individual was on parole makes this arrest even

more serious. We have an unwavering commitment to safeguard our neighborhoods from criminal activities and have zero tolerance for illegal activity.”

Redmond’s next court appearance is scheduled July 8 for arraignment in front of Judge Brian Telander.

Appellate court affirms 101-year sentence for 2019 armed abduction/ sexual assault/robbery of college student

DuPage County State’s Attorney Robert Berlin has announced that the Third District Appellate Court of Illinois has affirmed the 101year sentence of Justin Dalcollo for the abduction, sexual assault and armed robbery of a female college student in March 2019.

In his petition seeking a new sentencing hearing, Dalcollo claimed that the trial court abused its discretion in sentencing and improperly imposed consecutive sentences.

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On March 22, 2019, at approximately 3:30 p.m., the victim, who was home from college on spring break, was getting into her car in the parking lot at Bloomingdale Court Mall when Dalcollo approached her and forced his way into her car at gunpoint. Dalcollo then ordered the woman to drive to a bank in Glendale Heights and forced her to withdraw $300 from her debit card for him. He then forced her to drive to numerous locations in Hanover Park and Bartlett, ultimately parking the car in a parking garage at the Grand Victoria Casino in Elgin where Dalcollo sexually assaulted her.

Following the sexual assault, Dalcollo ordered the victim to drive to a convenience store in Elgin and accompany him as he went inside. He then ordered the woman to call a cab for him from her cell phone and drive him to the Elgin train station, where the cab picked him up. The victim then went to a hospital where she reported the sexual assault.

An investigation led to Dalcollo who was taken into custody the following day in Chicago.

On Dec. 13, 2021, following a five-day-long trial, a jury found Dalcollo guilty of six counts of aggravated criminal sexual assault (Class X felony), one count of armed robbery (Class X felony), one count of aggravated kidnapping (Class X felony) and two counts of unlawful use of a weapon by a felon (Class 2 felony).

On May 2, 2022, Judge Ann Celine O’Hallaren Walsh sentenced Dalcollo to two consecutive sentences of 40 years imprisonment for two counts of the aggravated criminal sexual assault charges and a consecutive 21-year sentence for aggravated kidnapping. The sentences on the remaining charges ran concurrently, for a total aggregate sentence of 101

years in the Illinois Department of Corrections.

At his sentencing hearing, the court noted Dalcollo’s lengthy criminal history with “back-to-back convictions for domestic battery” as well as the fact that Dalcollo was on parole for an unlawful sexual conduct with a minor conviction out of Ohio when he removed his ankle monitor, fled and committed this offense.

The court also found that a significant sentence was necessary to reassure the public that “the defendant cannot commit incomprehensible criminal acts on any other citizen.” concluding that Dalcollo’s actions have “forfeited him from ever reentering society.” In their analysis, the Appellate Court disagreed with Dalcollo’s assertions that the court abused its discretion at sentencing and failed to “take into account any potential for rehabilitation.”

The Appellate Court noted that the Trial Court considered and weighed mitigating including Dalcollo’s “difficult childhood as a victim of abuse and mental illness” but concluded that this evidence “did not significantly deprecate the seriousness of the offense or warrant the imposition of a lesser sentence.”

In determining Dalcollo’s lack of potential for rehabilitation, the Trial Court noted his violent criminal history as well as his refusal “to abide by any authority or the law,” “pattern of taking whatever he wants, whenever he wants,” and his continued “defiant behavior” and “inability to control himself” while in custody.

The Appellate Court concluded that “in light of the nature of defendant’s 10 convictions, and the court’s finding that his actions were ‘deplorable’ an ‘reprehensible’ and defendant was ‘incapable of rehabilitation’ the court did not abuse its discretion when sentencing defendant.”

“I thank the Appellate Court for their thorough analysis of this case and their finding that a 101-year sentence is not only appropriate, but warranted in this case,” Berlin said. “The violent kidnapping and sexual assault at gunpoint of a young woman at home from school for spring break severely damaged not just the victim, but her family as well, and shook an entire community to its core.

The Appellate Court’s decision guarantees that Mr. Dalcollo will spend the rest of his life behind bars, a sentence he has most certainly earned.”

Justice Peterson delivered the judgment of the court with Presiding Justice McDade and Justice Holdridge concurring.

Justin Dalcollo

EAM celebrates

‘Pride’

The windows of the Elmhurst Art Museum have been painted and decorated for Pride Month. It is likely to see more and more tributes to Pride throughout the month of June.

A massive collection

On the windows of the Elmhurst Art Museum, the monster pictures created by about 300 local school children to be chosen for Monsters in Wilder Park were on display for visitors to view.

AAUW collects donations for book sale

The Elmhurst Branch of the American Association of University Women (AAUW) will host its annual Used Book Sale from July 11 to 14 at Sandburg Middle School, 345 E. St. Charles Road, Elmhurst.

Collection barrels for donating books, CDs, LPs, and DVDs will be available beginning June 17 at Sandburg Middle School between 9 a.m. and noon; and during regular hours at the Elmhurst Public Library, 125 S. Prospect, and the Elmhurst Park

District’s Courts Plus, 186 S. West Avenue, Elmhurst. Donations will be accepted until July 9. Look for the collection barrels outside of Sandburg and the other locations.

The AAUW Elmhurst Area Branch is a not-for-profit 501(c)3 organization. Proceeds from the sale of books are used to benefit local scholarships and national AAUW research and programs for women and girls. For additional information, contact info@aauwelmhurst.org or call 630-832-4677.

DEE LONGFELLOW PHOTO Elmhurst Independent

DEE LONGFELLOW PHOTO Elmhurst Independent

TIME TO SPARKLE!

Start your Fourth of July celebration right at the 19th Elmhurst Running Club 4 on the 4th!

Thursday, July 4th

7:15 AM — 4-Mile Race 8:20 AM — 1-Kilometer Kids Race (Ages 5-12)

Light up your morning on the streets of Elmhurst! Both races start and finish on S. Prospect Ave. between Elmhurst University and Wilder Park.

Register now to reserve your spot at the starting line and to guarantee your T-shirt size.

Sign up today at 4ON4TH.RUN

Thank you to our many sponsors.

PLATINUM SPONSOR: Molex, Lisle

GOLD SPONSORS: McGrath Elmhurst Toyota; Fleet Feet, Elmhurst; Pilot Pete’s Coffee & Treats, Elmhurst; Calle Cantina, Hinsdale

SILVER SPONSORS - Alan Energy Services, Elmhurst; DuPage Animal Hospital, Elmhurst; Elmhurst Independent; Elmhurst Park District; Elmhurst University; FFC (Fitness Formula Clubs), Elmhurst; Grabill Wealth Management, Elmhurst; Kaczynski & Associates, Oakbrook Terrace; Kelly Stetler Real Estate (Compass), Elmhurst; Lakeside Bank, Elmhurst; Lone Wolf RE, Elmhurst; Pour Decisions Wine Co , Elmhurst; Roesch Autos, Elmhurst; Rebuilt PT and Performance, Elmhurst; RecoverRX Performance Therapy, Oakbrook Terrace; Red Wing Shoes, Evergreen Park, New Lenox, Geneva; Weil Foot and Ankle, Oak Brook; W3Body, Elmhurst

BRONZE SPONSORS - LeDonne True Value Hardware, Berkeley; Stretch Lab, Elmhurst

Giannoulias launches ‘DMV on wheels’

Continuing its commitment to modernize, the Illinois Secretary of State’s office is rolling out its first Mobile DMV that offers Illinois drivers and vehicle owners DMV services directly from a mobile unit, Secretary Alexi Giannoulias said.

“Since taking office, it’s been our mission to make it easier and more convenient for Illinois residents to access government services without having to wait or travel to a DMV facility,” Giannoulias said.

“Our DMV on Wheels program will build on the success of our digi-

tal programs, saving time by offering efficient ways to do things like renew your driver’s license or get a vehicle sticker without leaving their communities.”

Similar to a food truck, the first electric-powered Mobile DMV vehicle will launch this month serving Chicago and suburbs with three more coming later in the summer that will hold events across the entire state.

While the Secretary of State’s PopUp DMVs in brick-and-mortar locations require several physical space and internet connection requirements,

Elmhurst University Summer Band performs Sousa concert

Admission is free; concert begins at 7 p.m. on June 26 in Hammerschmidt Chapel

It won’t be the Sousa Band, but it will look and sound like the Sousa Band. The Elmhurst University Summer Band will present a costumed turn-of-the-20th-century park concert on Wednesday, June 26, at 7 p.m. in Hammerschmidt Chapel on the university campus. The concert will feature the fast-paced concert presentation in the same style that John Philip Sousa used to entertain large audiences, and which made

him a household name throughout the United States.

The concert will feature overtures such as Franz von Suppe’s “Light Cavalry” and “Poet and Peasant.” Elmhurst University’s Professor of Trumpet Dr. Chris O’Hara will be featured as Sousa’s famed cornet virtuoso Herbert L. Clarke. Elmhurst graduate Jeri-Ann Day will be the

See CONCERT, Page 17

the Mobile DMVs offer more flexibility because they are self-contained units and utilize an on-board internet connection.

The office will work closely to partner with municipalities, organizations, businesses and universities to promote and generate interest in Mobile DMV events, providing tools including social media kits to get the word out.

Customers visiting a Mobile DMV can obtain the following services within minutes:

• Renew their driver’s license, state ID or Temporary Visitor Driver’s License (TVDL).

• Renew their vehicle registration.

• Purchase a vehicle sticker.

• Apply for a REAL ID.

• Apply for a replacement or corrected driver’s license or state ID.

• Join the Illinois Organ and Tissue Donor Registry.

• Register to vote.

Mobile DMVs will increase the efficiency of off-site events by drasti-

cally reducing the setup time required compared to Pop-Up DMVs. Secretary of State employees can have a Mobile DMV set up and ready to serve customers quickly at the designated location.

Furthermore, in the event of an unforeseen temporary closure of a traditional DMV, the Secretary of State’s office can dispatch a Mobile DMV immediately to an area near the facility to avoid any disruption in service for customers.

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Family Day comes to EAM

Visitors create ‘monsters’ inspired by Wilder Park exhibit; ‘Donkey Hodie’ remains

By Dee Longfellow

INDEPENDENT

Over the past several months, more than 300 kids within the Elmhurst community dreamt

and

Art Museum to be part of the Monsters in Wilder Park public art exhibit. Inspired by these unique sketches, Elmhurst-based artist and illustrator Dave Pryor reimagined them as larger than life artworks which were placed on display in Wilder Park—unveiled on the weekend of Art in Wilder Park May 4-5.

Beyond those that were chosen for public viewing, guests of Family Day on Saturday, June 15, were able to view all of the monster drawings submitted by the children for the public art installation. In addition, they were invited to create their own unique monster through a hands-on art-making activity.

Pryor was on hand Saturday to explain how he helped explore the world of monster creation.

“It was a really tough task, choosing the top monsters from all 300 drawings,” Pryor told the Independent at the event. “It was tough enough narrowing the list down to just 100 drawings, then choosing 40 drawings from them, then so on until we got down to 10.”

Pryor, an Elmhurst resident, began his career in 1992 working in television animation on Warner Bros. cartoons. Since 2002, he has worked in gaming, developing art for several popular licenses including “The Wizard of Oz,” “Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory,” and “The Simpsons.”

Most recently, he worked with other artists designing puppets and props for Donkey Hodie, a new PBS program by Fred Rogers Productions, based on the characters from Mr. Rogers Neighborhood. On Saturday, July 20 from 1-4

p.m., there will be another Family Day held at the EAM featuring a Donkey Hodie cast appearance with a puppet demo and workshop. At 1 p.m., watch a live-action puppet demonstration then enjoy a behind-the-scenes look at how it all comes together. With the museum’s mixed media supplies, guests will work together as a family to design their own puppet.

Monsters in Wilder Park will remain on display through Wednesday, July 31. Donkey Hodie remains until Sunday, Aug. 11. (And in case you are curious, “Donkey Hodie” is a play on words with “Don Quixote,” the famous Spanish epic novel written by Miguel de Cervantes back in the early 1600s, often considered the greatest literary work every written.)

This exhibition is made possible in partnership with Elmhurst Park District and generously supported by the JCS Arts, Health and Education Fund of DuPage Foundation. Additional support by the City of Elmhurst Public Arts Commission, Elmhurst Bank/Wintrust, Makinney Group | Compass, Kelly Stetler | Compass, Total Window Treatments, and Chicago Event Graphics. Production support by DIT Workshops. For more information, visit elmhurstartmuseum.org.

DEE LONGFELLOW PHOTOS Elmhurst Independent

Pictured is local artist Dave Pryor, who had the arduous task of choosing the “monsters” that would be going on display in Wilder Park from among some 300 drawings submitted by school-aged children in Elmhurst. Pryor is also involved in the Donkey Hodie exhibit currently on display at the Elmhurst Art Museum, and will attend Family Day on Saturday, July 20, to take part in a puppet demonstration and workshop.

Museum, drawn by local school-aged children.

Community calendar

Pick of the week:

Sunday, June 23 - Old Tyme Base Ball

Led by Barrister Dave Oberg, the Old Tyme Base Ball Game returns to the Elmhurst University Mall in front of Hammerschmidt Chapel, with pregame events at 1 p.m. followed by the game at 2 p.m. Come see the University’s “Gown” team take on the “Town” team, led by Mayor Scott Levin. Bring a picnic, lawn chair, or blanket and enjoy an afternoon of old-school family fun. Huzzah! Free.

Friday, June 21

At 2 p.m. at the Elmhurst Public Library, the Elmhurst History Museum will offer the screening of the film A League of Their Own. View the popular 1992 film starring Tom Hanks and Geena Davis that chronicles the lives of women breaking ground as players in the All-American Professional Girls Baseball League. Rated PG. Run time: 2 hrs. 8 mins. Free. No reservation required.

Friday, June 21 and

Saturday, June 22

From 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., Bethel United Church of Christ will hold its annual indoor rummage sale at 315 E. St. Charles Rd. Find housewares, linens, books, toys, electronics, tools, jewelry, collectibles and more. Ample parking and church is fully accessible. Proceeds benefit the Shoe Fund for needy children in District 205 schools. Donations may be dropped off June 17-19 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. NO clothing, shoes or upholstered furniture. Info: bethel-ucc.org.

Sunday, June 23

From 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., the First United Methodist Church of Elmhurst at 232 So. York will host its annual Juneteenth Commemorative Celebration. Circuit Court Judge Chantelle Porter will be guest speaker, music by Evon Sams jazz and by vocalist Vince Wallace, accompanied by Richard Stultz. Family fun, food, free to attend but donations accepted to the Black College Fund of the UMC. Info: 630-834-2440.

Monday, June 24

From 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., in the Education Center of the Elmhurst History Museum, kids and their caregivers

are invited to drop in and play games, make a craft, and explore the exhibits. Appropriate for elementary school age children accompanied by an adult. No registration required. Info: elmhursthistory.org.

Sunday, July 14

From 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., the Elmhurst Garden Club presents “An Afternoon in The Garden,” the annual Walk & Faire featuring the Grand Gardens Boutique in Wilder Park. For tickets and info, visit elmhurstgardenclub.org.

Friday, July 12

Saturday, July 13

Sunday, July 14

Greenman Theatre Troup presents its annual 10-minute Play Festival “8 to the Bar 2024.” Performances begin at 7 p.m. each evening. Performances will take place at Chicago Dance Factory, 219 W. St. Charles Rd., Villa Park. Info: greenmantheatre.org.

Saturday, July 20

From 1-4 p.m., the Elmhurst Art Museum hosts Family Day featuring a Donkey Hodie cast appearance with a puppet demo and workshop. At 1 p.m., watch a live-action puppet demonstration then enjoy a behind-the-scenes look at how it all comes together. With the museum’s mixed media supplies, guests will work together as a family to design their own puppet. Info: elmhurstartmuseum.org.

Thursday, July 25

GreenMan Theatre, the Elmhurst History Museum and the Elmhurst Public Library present a presentation called “Stories from the Home Front 1941-45.” Delve into the untold history and stories of those who supported the war effort from Elmhurst and beyond.

Tickets for Elmhurst Garden Club’s

July 14 event are for sale online

Tickets are being sold—online only—for the 28th annual Elmhurst Garden Club (EGC) “An Afternoon in the Garden” Garden Walk and Boutique Faire, which will take place from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Sunday, July 14.

To purchase tickets, visit elmhurstgardenclub.org.

Tickets are priced at $20 per person until midnight July 13, when tickets will then be priced at $25 per person.

This year’s walk includes six glorious private gardens, five of which are located throughout Elmhurst, along with one garden in Oak Brook.

The Boutique Faire, located in Wilder Park, with more than 30 vendors featuring garden plants, accessories, horticultural experts, craft items and more, is free and open to the public.

It ties In with the EHM’s current exhibition, Victory at Home: 1941-45 on display through Aug. 18. Attend live or via Zoom. Registration required. Info: elmhurstpubliclibrary.libcal.com/ Home Front.

Saturday, Sept. 14

From 2-6 p.m., the Elmhurst Heritage Foundation (EHF) will host the 9th Annual Elmhurst Craft Beer Fest

on the grounds of the Elmhurst History Museum. Proceeds support the Museum as well as the Churchville One-Room Schoolhouse. Info: elmhurstcraftbeerfest.com

Elmhurst History Museum

Now through Aug. 18, the History Museum presents Victory at Home: 1941-1945. Admission to the Museum is always free, although some events

Worship

St. Timothy Evangelical Lutheran Church

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

Included in the vendor mix, Pilot Pete’s will have treats, food, and beverages for sale.

Proceeds from the EGC’s Garden Walk fund many community projects, but most specifically, scholarships to environmental, horticultural, and related fields of study by college students.

Beginning in 1999, well over $240,000 in EGC scholarships have been awarded to deserving students with proceeds from the EGC “Afternoon in the Garden” garden walk.

The Elmhurst Garden Club meets once a month on a Monday at the Wilder Mansion, 211 S. Prospect Ave. Meetings include social gathering, garden and environmental presentations by guest speakers, and a membership luncheon.

For more information, visit elmhurstgardenclub.org.

carry a fee. Info: elmhursthistory.org.

Elmhurst Art Museum

Monsters in Wilder Park A Kid-Powered Art Show is currently on display through Wednesday, July 31. Now through Sunday, Aug. 11, Designing Donkey Hodie – From Make-Believe to Someplace Else is showing. Info: 630-834-0202 or visit elmhurstartmuseum.org.

Lent and Easter Services at 7 p.m.

“The Crucial Hours”

Sunday Worship at 10:15 am Sunday School & Bible Study 9 am Wednesday Service at 7 pm

Second Lenten Service March 9, 2022

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

Adult Bible Study after Wednesday Service

Saturday, June 22 Game Night at 4 pm

Third Lenten Service March 16, 2022

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

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 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

Sunrise 6:30 a.m., April 17 Easter Breakfast 8 a.m., April 17

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

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

Saturday: 3�3:45PM

GAME PAGE

Sudoku

Fun by the Numbers

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

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

CLUES ACROSS

1. Breezed through

5. Supervises interstate

commerce

8. Unruly group

11. Backs away from

13. Expression of understanding

14. Have concern for

15. Monetary units

16. Congressman (abbr.)

17. Iranian city

18. Eating houses

20. 2,000 lbs.

21. Grandmother

22. They include North, South and Central

25. In an early way

30. Foes

31. Shuttered British entertainment magazine

32. One who unloads cages

33. Another term for sesame

38. Formally forbid

41. Make clear

43. Inaccessible

45. Get through

47. Ancient kingdom near Dead

Sea

49. Decameter

50. Type of sword

55. Actor Idris

56. Affirmative (slang)

57. Afflicted

59. One point north of northwest

60. Born of

61. Arabic name

62. Traditional Hong Kong street food: ____ pai dong

63. Termination point

64. Email function

CLUES DOWN

1. Sign language

2. In style

3. Helsinki neighborhood

4. Unable to hear

5. More rapid

6. An idea accepted as a demonstrable truth

7. In a cagey way

8. Kate and Rooney are two

9. Algerian port

10. Community in Ladakh

12. Midway between south and southeast

14. Town in Galilee

19. Satisfy

23. Italian impressionist painter

24. Brass instrument

25. Chest muscle (slang)

26. Transmits genetic information from DNA to the cytoplasm

27. Records electric currents generated by the brain

28. Woman (French)

29. Aircraft designed to carry lots of passengers

34. Baseball stat

FORK-TENDER

35. Pointed end of a pen

36. Popular sports league

37. Body part

39. Unlikely to provoke dissent

40. Yellowish cotton cloth

41. Domesticated house pet

42. Untruths

44. Set out to attract

45. Spiritual leader

46. Abba ____, Israeli politician

47. Repair

48. Genus of flowering plants

51. Swiss river

52. Prejudice

53. River in central Europe

54. Harness

58. Father

• Concert

featured soprano soloist as Marjorie Moody, “The Lady in White.” The concert also will feature novelty selections and additional music by the great composers, fulfilling Sousa’s dual function of entertaining the audience and bringing the best music available to the public.

(Continued from page 13) of good music than any symphony orchestra before the invention of the radio.

John Philip Sousa was honored by musicians and leaders throughout the world and was awarded numerous medals and honorary degrees. He was a very kind and generous man, a self-

made millionaire, and an enthusiastic patriot. When asked his occupation, his typical reply was “salesman of Americanism, globe-trotter, and musician.:

The concert will feature four conductors in the role of John Philip Sousa: Dr. Peter Griffin, former Chair of the Elmhurst University Music Depart-

ment, Judy Grimes, Director Emeritus of the EU Bands, John Heath, Assistant Director of the EU Bands, and Dr. James Hile, Director of Bands and Chair of the Music Department.

An audience sing-along of oldtime 1890’s favorites will bring back lots of childhood memories and Tchaikovsky’s “Marche Slav” will be the grand finale. Of course, there will be marches performed which will stir the patriotic blood and which Sousa said, “will make a man with a wooden leg want to get up and march.”

Sousa’s band always drew large audiences because of the music he performed and because the musicians were highly trained professionals who made their living by playing in the band. The Sousa Band was excellent—“on a par with the country’s leading symphony orchestras.” As a touring organization, the Sousa Band brought great classical music to cities and town across the United States where people had not yet heard a symphony orchestra. The Sousa Band contributed more to the advancement

Elmhurst Public Library programs

Friday, June 21

2-4 p.m.

Friday Features:

A League of Their Own

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

No registration required.

Saturday, June 22

10 a.m.-noon

Canasta: Open play

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

Live in-person. No registration required.

Tuesday, June 25

1:30-3 p.m.

Great Decisions

Learn about critical issues facing America with Professor Gary Midkiff and other community members.

Live in-person. Registration required.

Tuesday, June 25

3:30-4:30 p.m.

Google Photos

Learn about the Google Photos application and how to save photos from your device to the cloud.

Live in-person. Registration with an EPL card required.

Wednesday, June 26

10 a.m.-1 p.m.

American mahjong: open play

Gather every Wednesday for American mahjong, a game of skill, strategy, calculation, and a certain amount of chance.

Live in-person. No registration required.

Wednesday, June 26

7-8:30 p.m.

Medicare 101

Learn what Medicare covers, what it doesn’t, and your potential out-ofpocket expenses, including Supplement and Advantage Plans, Part D Prescription Coverage, and cost-saving strategies.

The Elmhurst Independent delivery will be changing in July

Receiving the weekly Elmhurst Independent is as easy as 1-2-3.

Admission is free and parking is available in the west lot or adjacent to the football stadium.

In our fast-paced technological world, we often yearn for a time that was slower and simpler, where song and great music could be heard on a summer evening on every street corner and in every park. You won’t want to miss this evening of special musical entertainment!

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Sport S

IC Catholic Prep’s Raffaelli a hitting machine

Earned two all-state honors during fabulous offensive run; Hit .654 this season

By Mike Miazga CORRESPONDENT

In her four years on the IC Catholic Prep softball team, Analisa Raffaelli put up offensive numbers like they were going out of style. This past season, she put things into overdrive.

The NCAA Division I Colgate University-bound Raffaelli hit an impressive .654 with 66 hits, which included 13 doubles, 8 triples, 13 home runs and 44 RBI. She scored 72 runs and—this is not a typo—stole 67 bases in helping the Knights advance to a Class 2A supersectional (final 8 teams in the state) and win the Girls Catholic Athletic Conference White Division title in the school’s first year in the league. Raffaelli was named the GCAC White Division player of the year.

To put her batting average in perspective, nearly seven of every 10 of Raffaelli’s at-bats this season resulted in either a single, double, triple or home run. If this was Major League Baseball, she’d be a wins above replacement (WAR) queen. She leaves ICCP a career .576 hitter with 216 hits (46 doubles, 23 triples, 37 homers, 149 RBI), 21 runs scored and 185 stolen bases.

Raffaelli, a four-time all-conference selection and a three-time conference player of the year, set the ICCP career records for most hits, most runs scored, home runs and steals. She set single-season marks for most hits (tied with teammate Lexi Russ), runs scored, best average in a season, most home runs in a season and most stolen bases. Wow.

But for Raffaelli, the numbers don’t mean too much. “Honestly, this year I wanted to have the most fun I could and be the best leader I could,” she said. “We had a lot of underclassmen who came in and did

an amazing job and I wanted to set a good example for them. Statistically, I had no idea how I was doing. I never check stats, and if my batting average gets in my head, I don’t want to be worried. My goal and biggest improvement was to have fun, be loose and enjoy the game and also be a good example for those girls who came in.”

Raffaelli said hitting-wise, it comes down to practice and approach. “It’s been the countless hours going to the Bo Jackson dome (in Bensenville) and calling anybody I could to come hit with me,” she said. “When I am at the plate, I look for my pitch. That gets overlooked. A lot of good hitters know when that pitch comes to them and then they get it. I search for what is mine. Jim Donovan is one of the best hitting coaches of all time and he prepares me for all those moments and keeps me grounded. He reminds me it’s just a game and the hitting is the cherry on top if I am doing well, but I’m not dreading it if I am not doing well.”

The home run, however, wasn’t always part of her repertoire. “Actually, no,” she said. “I was always the little one. I was always quicker, and I was always able to place the ball well. I started working out like crazy to get stronger and build my leg power. Sophomore, junior and senior year I started hitting it harder and for power.”

Raffaelli said the stolen base piece is something she continues to enjoy. “Freshman year, coach told me I would be able to set the stolen base record,” she said. “I beat that and then junior year I started hitting more home runs and then this year I was able to get to 67 steals. I have always been pretty quick. Stolen bases are something that gets overlooked. It’s one of my top assets with my game

and I have a lot of fun doing it. It’s all about timing the pitch and knowing the catcher behind the plate. I watch the throws down before game time and you look when the pitcher releases the ball. It’s mainly judging the pitcher and her release point.”

Raffaelli, a Melrose Park resident, took up the sport in middle school and said basketball and softball always ran neck and neck in terms of her favorite. “When I went to high school, that’s when I started to excel in softball,” said Raffaelli, who plays for the Chicago Cheetahs travel team. “Someone told me if you want your education paid for and you want to play at the next level, this is the sport you need to be involved in. I have a very good environment around me that helped me realize this is what I need to do to get to the next level and if I wanted to get my education paid for, this would be a great opportunity to do that.”

Speaking of college, Raffaelli would like to study political science at Colgate, located in Hamilton, New York, about 100 miles from Rochester and 170 miles from New York City. “And hopefully become a lawyer,” she said. “I am pretty good at arguing and I would like to help people who are struggling. I feel like I have the characteristics of being a lawyer and it’s something that has always interested me.”

Raffaelli, who was a high honor roll student at ICCP and played basketball there, said the choice to attend Colgate wasn’t tough. “Their environment is surreal,” she said. “I went there and I knew it was my home. I walked on campus and all the softball players welcomed me. It’s ranked as one of the four most-beautiful campuses. It’s insane there. The coaches are unbelievable. At the end of the day, you put softball aside. The

York boys track team finishes season strong

Langley, Golomb and York 400 relay team earn all-state honors

By Mike Miazga CORRESPONDENT

The York boys track team had plenty to celebrate during the recently completed boys track and field postseason. As a team, the Dukes finished tied for 23rd at the Class 3A state meet in Charleston with 12 points.

York’s 400 relay of junior Bruno Massel, junior Danny Karnatz, senior Cash Langley and junior Cole Hunter earned all-state honors after taking ninth in the finals with a time of 42.42. Earlier in the season, that quartet ran the fifth-fastest time in the event in school history.

Langley earned his second allstate honor after taking fifth in the

100 dash with a time of 10.70. It was his fourth career all-state accolade. He won his prelim heat and advanced to the finals. Langley leaves York as the second-fastest 100 dash runner in program history. Senior Bradley Golomb also earned all-state accolades after finishing fourth in the 1,600 run with a time of 4:15.11. He took second in his heat to advance to the finals. Massel ran 10.87 in the prelims of the 100 and did not qualify for the finals. In the pole vault competition, Gavin Schaer took 13th in prelims (4.30 meters) but did not advance to the finals. Earlier in the season, Schaer established himself as the second-best vaulter in school history

with a mark of 15-10.

York’s 3,200 relay team of Sam Kehoe, Max Zangan, Avi Shah and Emmett Bradford took 25th place with a time of 8:04.43 and did not advance to the finals. Junior Luke DeSimone finished 40th in the 300 hurdles with a time of 41.56 and did not advance. York’s 1,600 relay tied for 10th in prelims (3:22.12) and did not advance. That same group of Karnatz, sophomore Jack Ostendorf, Zangan and Golomb ran the 13th-fastest 1,600 time in school history.

At the Class 3A Glenbard North sectional, York took fourth as a team. Langley won the 100 (10.75) and

education at Colgate is unmatched and that was a deal-breaker for me, and to be able to set my future up while being able to play softball was another cherry on top. I always have taken academics very seriously, putting the student before the athlete in my household.”

Raffaelli said she would like to be remembered at ICCP as a good leader, “and someone who was able to reach out to people — an all-around good person,” she said. “Being an athlete is a cool thing, but I want to be remembered for my personality and being able to help others.”

SUBMITTED PHOTO Elmhurst Independent

ICCP softball star Analisa Raffaelli set the ICCP career records for most hits, most runs scored, home runs and steals. Raffaelli will continue her softball career at the collegiate level with plans to attend Colgate University in Hamilton, New York.

IC Catholic Prep graduate

State law dating back to 2020 sought to cut deep poverty in half by 2026, end it by 2036

Leslie headed to Le Moyne

Will play volleyball for Division II school

However, one particular Illinois county is experiencing the hardships of poverty, economic decline and the fastest depopulation in America

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

By Lylee Gibbs Jamilah Lewis

By Mike Miazga CORRESPONDENT

Molly Parker and Julia Rendleman

CAPITOL NEWS ILLINOIS

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

AND THE SALUKI LOCAL REPORTING LAB

Her landing spot ended up being at NCAA Division II Le Moyne College where the former Knights volleyball and soccer standout will continue her volleyball career at the Syracuse, New York school as a libero.

Editor’s note: This story, produced in partnership with Southern Illinois University journalism students, was supported by grant funding from the Pulitzer Center.

Pink and purple toys line the living room of this tiny public housing apartment in Cairo at Illinois’ southern border. A doorway leads to the only other room: a small bedroom that Kaneesha Mallory shares with her 4-year-old daughter Bre’Chelle.

It’s not an ideal living situation. The public housing authority built the high-rise for seniors, not families.

But on an annual income of about $15,000, it’s all the 34-year-old single mother can afford. She receives food stamps and disability benefits but those payments haven’t kept up with the rising cost of groceries and other essentials.

“All of the schools I was looking at were on the East Coast,” Leslie told the Independent last week. “I visited Le Moyne and really liked it. It reminded me of high school because it was a small school, and in a smaller school you will know a lot more faces than if I would have gone to a bigger school. The campus there is really pretty. It sits on a big hill and the scenery around it is great. Everything is pretty close together. They have very nice facilities. The volleyball program has good workout facilities and a nice locker room. I liked how modern it was.”

Leslie plans on studying nursing at Le Moyne. “They have a good nursing program,” she said. “As far as what kind of a nurse I want to be, I’m not quite sure yet.”

“It’s hard. I didn’t plan to live like this but such is life, you know?” Mallory said. “Because if I wanted to get another apartment somewhere out of housing, I would have a utility bill and the utility bill would be super freakin’ high.”

Her rural town of about 1,600 people has suffered one hit after another. It’s lost most of its public housing in recent years because of health and safety concerns. Cairo’s Head Start, where Mallory’s daughter attended, closed last year, leaving fewer options for child care and early education services.

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

Leslie’s volleyball journey started in the fifth grade, the first year she could play the sport at IC Grade School. She’s been playing club volleyball since seventh grade, most recently with the Chicago Elite group that practices out of Scores in Willow Springs and Montini High School in Lombard.

The lost its sole nursing home during the pandemic. And while Cai-

• Track

“I’m really excited to be able to play volleyball in college,” she said. “It gives me something to do.

• Stopka

Massel (10.98) took fourth. Both earned state berths. Golomb took second in the 1,600 (4:16.07) and Bradford was fourth (4:19.91) in the same event. DeSimone took sixth in the 300 hurdles (40.96) to advance as well. Schaer earned a state berth after a third place showing in the pole vault (4.32 meters).

ro celebrated the opening of a co-op grocery store last year, there’s still no place to fill up a car with gas.

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

In 2020, Gov. JB Pritzker and lawmakers pledged to help people like Mallory and the communities they call home.

Through passage of a law known as the Intergenerational Poverty Act , they decreed an ambitious plan: to cut deep and persistent poverty by 50 percent by 2026, lift all children from poverty by 2031 and eliminate poverty entirely in Illinois by 2036.

“I loved playing there,” she said. “I probably enjoyed school volleyball more than club because I love my team and the coaching staff was very supportive on and off the court. It made it a really good environment to be in. Coach (Kerrigan) was great. I have known her for a while. When I was little, I did all the little kids camps, and her daughter was in my brother’s grade at IC.”

This law created a 25-member commission made up of private and public sector officials to study the root causes of poverty and racial disparities that plague many of Illinois’ poorest communities, including their lack of safe, affordable housing, high unemployment rates and child care shortages.

Leslie said she will miss plenty about IC Catholic Prep. “I will miss how close knit of a community it was,” she said. “I knew everybody at the school. It will be weird going on campus and not knowing all the faces. I’ll miss those close connections with the coaches and teachers. It will be weird for the first year or so.”

But like most of the commissions and blue-ribbon panels that lawmakers create, it has no authority to fix the problems it finds. It can only make recommendations to lawmakers and the governor.

Pritzker’s agenda has aligned with much of what the group has proposed, such as increasing funding for early childhood education and creating for the first time in Illinois a $50 million state-level child tax credit similar to what the federal government offers families, which was included in the state budget that passed last month .

Collectively, those plans provide funding for 5,000 state-supported preschool seats next year and give qualifying families with children up to age 12 a tax credit that’s equal to 20 percent of the state’s Earned Income Tax Credit.

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

(Continued from page 18)

11th all-time in York history. DeSimone took third in the 110 hurdles.

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

(Continued from page 18)

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

Massel, Karnatz, Langley and Hunter took third in the 400 relay (42.27) to advance. Massel, Aaron Jobi, Karnatz and Hunter were sixth in the 800 relay (1:29.86 and qualified for state). Karnatz, Ostendorf, Zangan and Golomb won the 1,600 relay sectional title (3:21.06), while the 3,200 relay team of Zangan Bradford, Sam Kehoe and Golomb took second (7:58.33) to earn a state spot.

Sean Greetis won the 300 hurdles conference title, while DeSimone was second.

huge rah-rah person. I’m a little bit more of an individual players’ coach. I will pull kids to the side at practice and games and teach them.”

The state, under Pritzker’s leadership, has also increased funding for low-income college students, increased the cash assistance paid to eligible families under what’s known as Temporary Assistance for Needy Families and expanded the number of working parents eligible for child care subsidies, among other initiatives, according to a spokesperson for the Illinois Department of Human Services.

“ I’m really excited to be able to play volleyball in college. It gives me something to do. I feel like I would be so bored without it because it has been such a big part of my life.”

– Bella Leslie

But bolder and more controversial policy ideas supported by some on the commission, such as extending coverage to tipped workers under the state’s minimum wage laws and establishing a statewide guaranteed income for families who live in poverty—state aid they could spend with no strings attached—have not gained significant traction. Communities like Cairo that have suffered decades of economic decline have seen little relief.

to about 5,000 people, down from a high of over 25,000 in 1940.

Cairo Mayor Thomas Simpson said he’d never heard of the commission on poverty elimination, though it did hold a listening session in the town in March 2023.

“We need to know, OK, what’s your plan to get us out of poverty?” Simpson said. ‘What (are) you gonna do for us down here in Cairo? I’m working on rebuilding Cairo, so how can we work together to make things happen?”

Simpson said his community suffers from a lack of industry and small businesses. The state, he said, should take advantage of the region’s natural resources.

posed to be operational this year, has faced numerous delays . Local officials say planning work and environmental studies are under way, but no timeline has been given for construction to start.

‘They can’t find a place to stay’ Alongside an expansion of industry and jobs, Cairo officials say they need places for people to live at a variety of price points.

“We have a crisis in southern Illinois for affordable housing, especially in areas such as Alexander County,” said state Sen. Dale Fowler, R-Harrisburg, who sits on the commission.

And the commission, which has seven vacancies, is a long way from meeting its goals.

In fact, financial problems are worsening for many families as pandemic-era enhanced benefits sunset in the face of rising inflation.

‘What’s your plan …?’

been cancelled due to the pandemic. “I will probably leave Aug. 10-11 because it’s a far drive,” she said. “We had Zoom call with the team recently and they said they should have an answer about our season in the next 7-10 days. They talked about three scenarios and what could happen like if we start the season and someone gets sick and we have to stop and go. That’s one of the reasons why they are looking at moving the season to the spring. Right now the plan is to have a season, but we won’t know until the next 7-10 days.”

Few places are immune to poverty, but rural counties in southern and central Illinois struggle the most. And perhaps nowhere experiences these challenges as deeply as Cairo.

“I mean, you look at river, rail and of course we’ve got the waterways out here. … A lot of things can happen here and we’ve got space for it,” Simpson said.

There have been efforts to uplift Cairo, but they’ve fallen short.

One of the latest came in August 2020, when Pritzker joined local officials to announce $40 million in state support to jump-start construction of a port just west of Cairo on the Mississippi River, near the confluence. The governor billed the project as an economic lifeline for Cairo and the surrounding area.

That crisis was apparent on a Tuesday night in early April, when dozens of Cairo citizens, including Mallory, filled the blue lunch tables in the high school gymnasium for a meeting about the town’s housing needs.

The conversation sounded like one that might be heard after a hurricane or large-scale fire pushed people from their homes. “We’ve had a lot of folks displaced. And of course, a lot of folks want to come home,” Simpson said at the top of the meeting. But the housing crisis here is human-made.

But if all systems are a go, Leslie can’t wait to take her skills as a libero to the next level with the Dolphins. “I feel like being a libero you have to be really quick and that is typically what I am good at. I have really good reaction time,” she said. “I like diving on the floor and saving balls. It’s a really good feeling when you make a save. The position fits my personality, too. You have to be the loudest one on the court. I have a loud personality. You have to be pretty loud if you want to be a libero. I think I match that description.”

A majority Black town steeped in history at the confluence of the Ohio and Mississippi rivers, Cairo is the government seat of Alexander County. It’s the poorest county in Illinois and the fastest depopulating in America. Today, the county is home

“This is more than just a port,” Pritzker said that day. “It’s also fuel for new jobs and newfound economic prosperity all across this region, a region that’s been left out and left behind for far too long.”

But the project, which was sup-

Citing safety issues and no money for repairs after local officials misspent it, the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development has closed five large housing complexes in the county since 2019. That

See POVERTY, Page 22

third. York’s 3,200-relay of Thomas Gonzalez, Anders Dochoff, Ryker Harges and Kasen Kramer also took third.

The York 400 relay team of Massel, Karnatz, DeSimone and Hunter took second, while the 1,600-relay team of Shah, Zangan, Jobi and Ostendorf took second. Schaer was the conference runner-up in the pole vault.

ble and transparent and communicate with everybody.”

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

Earlier, York was fourth at the West Suburban Conference Silver Division meet, while the York sophomores finished third. At the varsity level, Golomb won the conference title in the 800, while Zangan was third. Golomb was third in the 1,600 with a time of 4:12.71 that ranks

At the sophomore level, Milo Oyasu won the pole vault conference title. Jack O’Connor was second in the high jump. Dominic Alfano took third in the 100, while Carter Olsen was second in the 800 and he also won the 1,600 run. Aidan Lynch took third in the 300 hurdles.

York won the 400-relay conference title with Noah Zmrhal, Henry Duda, Dom Alfano and John Lestina. The 800-relay team of Duda, Lestina, Zmrhal and Justin Canale won the conference title as well, while the 1,600 realy team of JR Barz, Owen Bunnell, Zmrhal and Lynch took

Stopka noted York has been doing conditioning drills and said the plan as of earlier last week was to start summer camp pending District 205 approval. “I have probably been able to meet 60 to 70 percent of the players so far,” he said. “If it does get approved that would be the start of our contact days with four days a week for three weeks straight. And even though the IHSA waived the blackout dates before the school year, we won’t take advantage of that. I’m pretty sure families have plans to do things before school starts. I’m the new guy and I’m not going to say you can’t go with your family. Go do it and enjoy it. This is a crazy and

“The sophomore team has much to look forward to with high-placing athletes in many events,” York coach Charlie Kern said. Kern pointed out sophomore Gabe Boutin competed at the varsity level in the discus and took fifth, but would have won the sophomore discus title by 10 feet at the conference meet.

Golomb was named the York varsity MVP, while Langley earned the captain award. Joseph Zbiegiel, Ostendorf and Massel were the winners of most improved awards. “It was a great year for our team,” Kern said. “We are so proud of the impact our seniors have made and are excited about the large number of juniors that competed at state as well as alternates who viewed the meet firsthand. These experiences will help fuel the determination to improve and return (next May) ready to compete against the best in Illinois”

As far as the future, Stopka wants York competing at a high level on a consistent basis. “The short-term goal is to restock and build up the team,” he said. “A large portion of last year’s team was seniors, especially the starting 11. We have to make sure the now juniors are up to the speed of the varsity level and are ready to contribute. We want to keep that pipeline going with the younger groups of players. We want to make sure we are not only competitive, but that we are competing for regionals, sectionals and supersectionals. It starts for me with this junior class that is coming in. We want them ready to go and setting the standard for these other classes that come in so they can also contribute right off

proudly presents

YORK HIGH SCHOOL PLAYER OF THE WEEK CASH LANGLEY YORK BOYS TRACK AND FIELD

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Burial Needs

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

LOOKING FOR A COMPANION 60+ year old woman looking for a male companion who is interested in going out to dinner, concerts, shows, movies, etc. If interested, please call 630-782-1006

Campers and RVs

1994 WINNEBAGO WARRIOR 22’ V8 454 engine, 97,200 miles. Newer tires, new battery, new sub floor and flooring. Rooftop A/C works great. Rust free, runs good and ready for travel! Some updates have been done to the interior, but still needs some minor finishing. Asking $11,500. Located near Rockford. Call 815520-0997.

LEGAL NOTICES

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE EIGHTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT DU PAGE COUNTY, ILLINOIS

PUBLICATION NOTICE OF COURT DATE FOR REQUEST FOR NAME CHANGE (ADULT NAME CHANGE)

CURRENT LEGAL NAME: MARK ANTHONY JOHNSON

Case Number: 2024MR000309

My current name is: MARK ANTHONY JOHNSON. I wish my name to be changed to: ANGELUS GLO. The court date for the Request I filed is scheduled on: JULY 18, 2024 at 9:00 a.m. at 505 N. County Farm Road, Wheaton, IL, DuPage County, in Courtroom #2005.

/s/ Mark Johnson

Dated: 5/23/2024

Candice Adams Clerk of the Circuit Court 10587-942996

(Published in The Elmhurst Independent June 6, 13 & 20, 2024) 456410

CERTIFICATE NO. 79448 was filed in the office of the County Clerk of DuPage County on JUNE 4, 2024, wherein the business firm of JMB ELMHURST CONSULTING LOCATED AT P.O. BOX 166, ELMHURST, IL 60126 was registered; that the true or real name or names of the person or persons owning the business, with their respective post office address(es), is/are as follows: NAME OF PERSON(S) JOHN M. BROGAN, HOME ADDRESS 874 S. PARKSIDE AVE., ELMHURST, IL 60126. IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand and Official Seal at my office in Wheaton, Illinois, this 4TH day of JUNE, A.D. 2024.

JEAN KACZMAREK Jean Kaczmarek DuPage County Clerk (OFFICIAL SEAL)

(Published in The Elmhurst Independent June 13, 20 & 27, 2024) 456866

Rotary Club of Elmhurst presents scholarship

Rotary Club of Elmhurst president Frank Troost recently announced that the winner of the group’s $16,000 scholarship is 2024 York High School graduate Daniella Chavez. She is pictured (fourth from left) with her family and with Rotary Club of Elmhurst member Garry Vaccaro (third from left). Chavez will attend Michigan State University, where she plans to study neuroscience. “We received many excellent applications for the scholarship and the one that stood out for us was Daniella’s,” said Rotary Club Scholarship Chairperson Dan Kunesh. “The leadership capabilities she exhibited while at York and her commitment to service and helping others were outstanding. She was able to maintain excellent grades while enduring unusual personal challenges. We are proud to award our scholarship to Daniella Chavez.” Each year, Rotary Club of Elmhurst awards a $16,000 scholarship (payable over four years) to an Elmhurst high school senior who best exemplifies the motto “Service Above Self.” Founded in 1955, Rotary Club of Elmhurst is an organization committed to doing good in the world through community and humanitarian service. For more information, visit www.elmhurstrotary.org.

• Poverty

(Continued from page 19)

eliminated most of the subsidized apartment units that had been available only five short years ago.

Residents forced to move from their apartments received vouchers to help subsidize their rents in privately owned homes and apartments. But due to the severe lack of housing in the county, most have moved 30 miles or more away to mid-size communities in Illinois and neighboring Kentucky and Missouri.

The town begged for help replacing some of its lost housing, but

the government is no longer in the business of building public housing. Instead, state and federal programs now rely on private and nonprofit developers who use complex tax-credit deals to build housing.

And though Fowler said the commission supports an expansion of affordable housing in Illinois, including for southern Illinois, these tax-credit housing models are challenging to make work in disadvantaged rural communities, as they struggle to operate at the scale need-

ed for financial sustainability.

The housing crisis in Cairo is widespread, affecting people across the income spectrum. Home prices are low compared to the statewide average, but they often need thousands of dollars in repairs.

“When I moved back home eight years ago, I had to stay with my sister in the projects until I found somewhere to live,” said Lisa Thomas, a fifth-grade teacher at a nearby elementary school. “When I finally found somewhere to live, it took a

lot of money to actually get my home into a livable condition. And so that’s some of the things that you’re finding, people stay with other people, because they can’t find a place to stay.”

Looking for solutions

Christopher Merrett, director of the Illinois Institute for Rural Affairs at Western Illinois University, said that while communities must shoulder much of their own recovery work, it’s unrealistic to think they can do it without help.

“It’s really hard to think beyond that day-to-day and week-to-week basis,” he said. “Hard to get that mindset that you should be thinking a year out, five years out, because you’re just so busy trying to keep a roof over your head and over your family’s head.”

Merrett is not on the poverty commission but his institute is helping Cairo officials with economic development planning. It starts, he said, with changing attitudes.

“There’s kind of a negative narrative about rural communities,” Merrett said. “We’re trying to help change the way people think about the community because many communities have been in population decline for decades.”

SUBMITTED PHOTO Elmhurst Independent

Elmhurst University Summer Band

Elmhurst University Summer Band

Elmhurst University Summer Band

Wednesday, June 26, 2024

7:00PM

Wednesday, June 26, 2024 7:00PM

Wednesday, June 26, 2024 7:00PM

Hammerschmidt Chapel

Hammerschmidt Chapel

Hammerschmidt Chapel

In September of this year, the York Theatre

will be 100 years old. The legendary theatre, a part of the sixteen theatre Classic Cinemas chain, has always been a vital attraction for downtown Elmhurst. The York, with its trademark marquee and distinctive interiors, has been described as “a beacon to the heart of Elmhurst.”

The late Willis and Shirley Johnson were the faces of Classic Cinemas for many years. Willis, an Elmhurst Chamber Civic Hall of Fame member, was an active volunteer and business leader in Elmhurst and they both left their mark on many facets of the community.

Chris Johnson now leads the family movie business, and he is leading it into the future with energy, anticipation and innovation. Chris started as an usher, then concessions manager, theatre manager and in 2014 became CEO. Chris shared that a “normal” day for him consists of checking on how we did yesterday, directing staff in targeting priorities, and thinking about the future. It’s the future, after all, that will create new opportunities for growth, guest services and enjoyment.

Classic Cinemas, small as movie chains go, has prospered and succeeded despite challenges that placed larger chains in jeopardy. Chris Johnson describes Classic Cinemas as “nimble, attentive and interested in feedback”. Every guest review is read and replied to because “it’s that feedback that keeps us alert and focused”, Johnson said. Classic Cinemas sold more than 3.25 million tickets in 2023 despite some disruption of movie production and delivery. Classic Cinemas rebounded from the Pandemic by careful attention to their guests and communities. When the theatres reopened, their guests came back, understanding that theatres are great for business in the downtown, and great for the local economy.

Improved technology, recliner seating, excellent sound and projection, affordable pricing and reimagining what movies and movie theatres mean to individuals are all keys to the years ahead. Johnson shared, “the move business will always be more art than science, but it’s finding the right blend of those characteristics that will allow Classic Cinemas and The York Theatre to continue to thrive”.

Community Bank of Elmhurst is proud to be a business partner with Classic Cinemas and Chris Johnson. CBE’s tagline of “We Know Elmhurst. We ARE Elmhurst.”, could easily be on the York’s marquee too, as an example of two distinctive, community-oriented businesses.

Community Bank of Elmhurst