‘Violence has no place in politics’ flags and show support, led by former 7th Ward Alderman Mark Mulliner, who spearheaded the effort.
By Dee Longfellow FOR THE ELMHURST INDEPENDENT
Following the attempt on former President Donald Trump’s life on Saturday at his rally in Butler, Pennsylvania, plans were quickly put together to hold a prayer vigil for Trump and for our nation’s healing at City Hall on Sunday, July 14 at 2 p.m.
Around 75 people gathered on the north side of the building to wave
“This is the third time [a president has been shot] in my lifetime,” he told the audience. “First it was John F. Kennedy, then Ronald Reagan, now Donald Trump. This is a terrible incident. Violence of any kind has no place in politics, regardless of your beliefs.”
Guests wore patriotic garb, and many brought flags, which stood out well in the wind on Sunday. The demonstration was peaceful and took place with no incidents reported.
Above: These two men held up this banner on York Street in front of City Hall to encourage those driving by to join in the prayer vigil held Sunday.
Left: These two ladies wore patriotic outfits while attending a prayer vigil held Sunday, July 14 at City Hall for former President Donald Trump and for the nation. It was held in the wake of Saturday’s incident, during which the suspected shooter, identified as 20-year-old Thomas Matthew Crooks, allegedly opened fire on Trump at his rally in Pennsylvania. More photos on page 2.
DEE LONGFELLOW PHOTOS Elmhurst Independent
Crowd turns out for Trump
Pictured above is a sampling of the crowd that attended prayer rally for former President Donald Trump on Sunday at City Hall. Around 75 attended, many wearing patriotic clothing and many waving flags.
Right: One person at the prayer vigil brought along this rather interesting flag—it is entirely black and white, with the exception of three colored stripes towards the bottom. It is not an official American flag. The blue stripe is in support of police. The green stripe is in support of medical responders, and the red stripe at the bottom is in support of firefighters.
Top left: Former 7th Ward Alderman Mark Mulliner spoke to the crowd of around 75 people Sunday with regard to the Saturday incident, stressing that violence has no place in politics.
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AAUW keeps everybody reading
By Dee Longfellow FOR THE ELMHURST INDEPENDENT
Last weekend, the Elmhurst chapter of the American Association of University Women (AAUW) held its annual used book sale at Sandburg Middle School. It remained busy all four days,
indicating that many people still enjoy reading good ol’ books they can hold in their hands rather than read from a screen on a device. Proceeds from the sale of books are used to benefit local scholarships and programs for women and girls.
Everyone working at the AAUW Used Book Sale had big smiles as they checked out visitors who purchased piles of books as well as CDs and DVDs at low prices. On the last day of the sale, people were invited to fill a grocery bag with books for just $10.
Music at the Gazebo concerts will take place on July 18 and 25
The Spring Road Business Association invites the public to Wild Meadows Trace on Spring Road for Music at the Gazebo concerts on July 18 and July 25.
The concerts, which will take place from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m., will feature Karla & The Phat Cats on July 18 and Live Stream, a cover band performing hits from the 1980s and 1990s on July 25.
Bring your lawn chair or blanket and enjoy an evening of musical entertainment as the sun sets for the day. Please note that consuming alcoholic beverages in the park is not permitted, per Elmhurst Park District policy. For more information about the concert, visit SpringRoad.com/ourevents.
DEE LONGFELLOW PHOTOS Elmhurst Independent AAUW Club members call Maria Patt “The money lady” because she handles all the financial transactions that take place before, after and during the annual Used Book Sale. It’s too early to get the total amount raised for the AAUW’s scholarship program, but the busy days of the sale look good for a successful result.
Sandburg Middle School was the perfect backdrop for this year’s AAUW Used Book Sale that took place July 11-14. Club members kept busy helping avid readers with their purchases. All proceeds benefit the AAUW scholarships for women.
Poll reveals Americans’ ultimate deceased celebrity landmarks to visit
Elvis Presley’s Graceland, the iconic Dakota where John Lennon spent his final days, or even the Henry Ford Museum with its vast collection celebrating American innovation, are just a few of the many landmarks that Americans visit to pay homage to their favorite deceased celebrities.
Each year, countless fans embark on trips to these hallowed sites, driven by a desire to connect with the legacies of those who have left an indelible mark on our culture.
Tarotoo quizzed 3,000 Americans to determine the ultimate (deceased) celebrity landmarks to visit. They were therefore able to establish a definitive ranking of these revered landmarks, highlighting the places that resonate most deeply with the public and capturing the spirit of these timeless icons.
The top 10 were as follows:
1 - Elvis Presley’s Graceland; Memphis, Tenn.
Graceland in Memphis, Tennessee, is the iconic home of Elvis Presley, the King of rock ‘n’ roll, and it’s no surprise it made top spot in the rankings. This sprawling estate offers fans an intimate look at Presley’s life and career. Visitors can tour the mansion’s opulent rooms, view his extensive collection of costumes and awards, and explore exhibits detailing his musical legacy. Graceland is a landmark for music lovers and a testament to Elvis’s enduring influence on popular culture.
2 - Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum, Springfield, Ill.
The Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum is a must-visit for history enthusiasts and admirers of one of America’s most iconic presidents. This stateof-the-art facility offers an immer-
sive experience into the life and legacy of Abraham Lincoln through its engaging exhibits, interactive displays, and vast collections of artifacts. Visitors can explore detailed recreations of Lincoln’s childhood home, the White House during his presidency, and pivotal moments like the Civil War and the Emancipation Proclamation.
3 - Kurt Cobain Memorial, Aberdeen, Wash.
The Kurt Cobain Memorial honors the influential Nirvana frontman who helped shape the grunge music scene. The memorial park features a granite guitar sculpture, plaques with Cobain’s lyrics, and tributes from fans around the world. Visitors can reflect on Cobain’s impact on music and his legacy as a voice of a generation.
4 - Judy Garland Museum; Grand Rapids, Minn.
The Judy Garland Museum celebrates the life and career of the legendary actress and singer. Located in her birthplace, the museum features a collection of memorabilia, including costumes, photographs, and personal items. Visitors can explore exhibits detailing Garland’s early years, her rise to stardom, and her enduring legacy, particularly her iconic role in “The Wizard of Oz.”
5 - Patsy Cline Museum; Nashville, Tenn.
The Patsy Cline Museum celebrates the life and career of the iconic country music singer. The museum features a collection of Cline’s personal artifacts, costumes, photographs, and memorabilia. Visitors can explore exhibits detailing her rise to fame, her im -
Obituary
ANJALI MARUTI BHORADE, 51
Anjali Maruti Bhorade, 51, a loving mother, beloved wife, and esteemed ophthalmologist, passed away peacefully on June 12, 2024, surrounded by family and friends in Saint Louis, MO.
Anjali is survived by her beloved husband, Wesley Green; her cherished sons, Kiren Nicholas Greuloch (16) and Alexander Bhorade Greuloch (14); stepdaughters Harper Green (11) and Mila Green (8); devoted parents Maruti Bhorade and Suman Bhorade; loving siblings Sangeeta (Siddharth) Bhorade and Rajeev Bhorade; fond nephews Arjun Prodhan and Rohan Prodhan; and countless numbers of dedicated and loving friends, relatives, and colleagues.
Anjali's boundless generosity and warmth supported and uplifted everyone who crossed her path. She had an energetic combination of intelligence, beauty, kindness, and humor. Her indomitable spirit shone brightest when faced with challenges, often surpassing expectations through sheer determination and perseverance. She was an eternal optimist who took nothing for granted and put family above all. She loved deeply and was deeply loved. In Anjali's final days, she was a personification of grace and shared her pride for her children and her love for her family and friends.
Anjali adored music, poetry, and plays and instilled this love for the arts in her children. She would organize a play with her children every holiday, followed by a musical performance. Her greatest joy came
from creating memories with her loved ones. Her incredible sense of humor was often reflected in creative Halloween costumes, clever puns, and playfulness, which helped to lighten life's daily stresses for everyone around her. Her unconditional love for her sons, Kiren and Alex, was a cornerstone of her life, while embracing her blended family. Anjali created a home full of joy and laughter; her selflessness and unwavering support for others defined her character.
From an early age, Anjali displayed a passion for learning, a compassion for others, and an affinity for writing. These attributes were evident throughout her high school years at York Community High School in Elmhurst, IL where she achieved the position of valedictorian of her senior class and were further exemplified in her commencement speech for her graduating class. Anjali's talent for creative writing was recognized when received the District 205 Young Writer's Award, leading her to the statewide competition. She also excelled in gymnastics, playing a key role in the varsity team, and in music, where she was a member of the 1st violin section in the York High School orchestra and received a standing ovation during her piano recital performances. Throughout her achievements, she remained a supportive presence for her friends and classmates in their times of need. These experiences, combined with her academic dedication and passion for writing and the arts, laid the foundation for her lifelong journey.
After receiving her bachelor's degree in biology, magna cum laude, from Cornell University, she earned her medical degree from the Uni-
versity of Illinois College of Medicine at Chicago, where she also completed her residency in ophthalmology. Anjali further specialized with a glaucoma fellowship at the renowned Bascom Palmer Eye Institute in Miami, FL. She then joined the Washington University School of Medicine in Saint Louis, where she practiced medicine for 20 years. Throughout her career, she was recognized for her dedication, excellence, and relentless pursuit of knowledge as a clinician, surgeon, educator, and researcher. Anjali published extensively on the impact of glaucoma on daily functioning. She held multiple leadership positions, including serving on the board of directors of the American Glaucoma Society. She inspired and mentored numerous medical students, ophthalmology residents, and fellows. Aside from her professional accolades, Anjali was well known for her compassion, warmth, and empathy. Her patients often commented that she treated them with the utmost dignity and respect while providing them with the highest level of care.
Anjali will be remembered for her incredible heart, her fierce energy, and the joy she brought into the lives of all who knew her. Her light will continue to shine through the lives she enriched and the legacy she leaves behind. Her absence leaves a void that can never be filled, but her spirit will continue to inspire and guide us.
A Celebration of Life memorial service to commemorate Anjali's life will be held in the fall in St. Louis, MO. See LANDMARKS, Page 19
Elmhurst-Yorkfield Food Pantry to hold Music Trivia Challenge on Sept. 6
The Elmhurst-Yorkfield Food Pantry (EYFP) will host a Music Trivia Challenge on Friday, Sept. 6, at the Elmhurst American Legion, 310 W. Butterfield Road. Doors open at 7 p.m. Trivia rounds will begin at 7:30 p.m.
Tickets are on sale now for $320 per team of eight, or $40 per person, at www.eyfp.org.
Teams of eight will test their knowledge of music, artists, genres, lyrics and more. The brain-teasing questions will cover a wide range of eras and genres, making it a fun activity for all. The evening will include food, raffles and a cash bar.
Proceeds from the evening will benefit the EYFP.
The EYFP is committed to providing food, compassion, and hope to its neighbors in need, serving residents of Addison, Bensenville, Berkeley, Elmhurst, Hillside, Lombard, Oak Brook, Oakbrook Terrace and Villa Park.
The EYFP began in 1983 in a walk-in closet at the Yorkfield Presbyterian Church in Elmhurst, and today has expanded into a 2,500 square-foot facility, as well as a 6,000 square-foot warehouse space, offering clients a welcoming and dignified shopping experience.
In 2023, EYFP registered over 300 new families, a 26 percent increase. With donor support, EYFP was able to manage increased costs due to inflation along with increased demand.
Today, EYFP serves approximately 700 families per month, offering four different weekly pick-up times. EYFP provides items including milk and eggs, fresh vegetables and fruits, frozen meats and fish, canned and dry goods, as well as personal-care items.
In addition, EYFP provides a monthly grocery delivery program to Elmhurst low-income seniors, and expanded holiday meal programs.
home & auto.
DOES WEARING GLASSES HELP PREVENT PINKEYE?
Since contact lens wearers are at higher risk of contracting conjunctivitis (commonly called pinkeye), choosing to wear glasses instead lowers that risk, especially for contact lens wearers who have chronic or recurring pinkeye. Anyone experiencing vision problems is also at higher risk for conditions like dry eye that can invite bacteria and make pinkeye infections more likely. Correcting minor vision problems with glasses lowers that risk and can help prevent recurring pinkeye too. If you wear contact lenses and get pinkeye, use backup glasses instead until the infection has healed. To prevent reinfection, dispose of any disposable contacts worn while you were contagious, disinfect all contacts before use, and wear contacts for shorter time periods. Practicing good hygiene is the best way to prevent conjunctivitis from spreading. Although conjunctivitis is typically a minor condition, sometimes it can develop into a more severe issue. If you have signs of conjunctivitis, schedule an exam with your optometrist. When you need to schedule an eye exam, please contact SKOWRON EYE CARE. Our showroom is stocked with the latest and greatest trends in budget
Police beat
The Elmhurst Police Department recently reported the following arrests and citations. Persons charged with domestic battery are not named in order to protect the privacy of victims. Readers are reminded that an arrest does not constitute a conviction, and that subjects are considered innocent unless proven guilty in a court of law. Juveniles age 17-or-younger are not named.
Criminal damage, trespass to property
July 6
Police said officers responded to a store in the 100 block of E. First for a report of a male suspect who was refusing to leave and was harassing employees. The suspect was located by officers and issued a trespass notice.
July 5
A suspect was served with a trespass notice at a business in the 100 block of W. Grand at 4:24 p.m.
Police said that subsequent to a panic alarm in the 300 block of W. Lake, a complainant related that a suspect came in with multiple children but only paid for one. When the suspect was advised to leave due to non-payment for other children, she began to threaten the staff. There was no physical altercation and the suspect left the scene. The complainant requested that one of the involved minors be issued a trespass notice from the business.
DUI, DUI-drugs, transportation
of
open alcohol, possession of open alcohol,
consumption of alcohol by
a minor
July 10
John Divito, 64, of Lisle, was charged with DUI and driving the wrong way on a one-way street subsequent to a traffic stop near First and York at 8:15 p.m.
July 8
Melody Molina, 25, of Melrose Park, was charged on the above date with DUI, leaving the scene of a property damage accident, improper lane usage, damage to a highway structure, no seat belt and no insurance subsequent to a crash that occurred June 29. Police said the suspect was found to have fled on foot, and was located by police after she had fallen down a ditch.
Amyah Ortega, 21, of Chicago, was issued a citation possession of open alcohol in a motor vehicle near Route 83 and Armitage at 6:03 p.m.
Uriel Smith, 18, of Maywood, was issued a citation for open liquor in a vehicle near Oaklawn and Crockett at 1:40 p.m.
July 7
Luis Magallanes, 24, of Mt. Prospect, was charged with DUI, driving on the wrong side of the road and failure to reduce speed to avoid an accident near North and I-290 at 5:47 a.m.
July 5
Police said that subsequent to an attempted traffic stop near North and Route 83 at 1:21 a.m., Dilio Colina-Pereira, 40, of Des Plaines, ignored lights and sirens, prompting the responding officer to terminate their pursuit. According to police, the suspect was located and detained by Villa Park police. The suspect was charged with DUI, no valid license, improper lane usage, vehicle, illegal transportation of alcoholic liquor, failure to yield to an emergency vehicle and no insurance.
Fleeing, eluding
According to information provided last week by the Elmhurst Police Department, police reported one incident of fleeing and eluding during which the driver of a vehicle fled the scene after being stopped for a traffic stop by police.
Harassment, threats
June 30-July 3
A complainant told police that a suspect was harassing them by phone between the above dates. An investigation is pending.
Identity theft, fraud
According to information provided by the Elmhurst Police Department, police reported three incidents of identity theft or fraud.
Liquor law violation
Sandra A. Caratachea, 45 of Bensenville, was issued a citation for serving alcohol without a liquor license at a restaurant in the 400 block of N. York. Police said the restaurant was found to be serving alcohol without a liquor license.
Possession of cannabis in a vehicle
According to information provided last week by the Elmhurst Police Department, police reported two incidents of possession of cannabis by either the driver of a vehicle or a passenger: Thomas Brit, 20, of Chicago, near Route 83 and Armitage at 6:03 p.m. July 8; and Zion Barksdale-Middleton, 18, of Maywood, near Oaklawn and Crockett at 1:40 p.m. July 8.
Suspicious incident
July 8
A complainant at a restaurant in the 100 block of N. York told police that a group of unknown juveniles opened the back door of the restaurant and threw several milk crates inside the kitchen. An investigation is pending.
Warrant arrest
July 9
Police said Cortez Wraggs, 50, of Chicago, turned himself in on a warrant out of DuPage County at 7:30 p.m.
July 8
Police said Manuel A. Musso, 45, of Chicago, turned himself in on two warrants out of DuPage County at 11:41 a.m.
July 7
Police said that subsequent to a well-being check in the 400 block of E. St. Charles at 6:07 p.m., April Sanchez, 27, of Elmhurst, was found to have an active warrant out of Will County. The suspect was placed under arrest and transported to the police station where she was processed on the warrant.
July 5
Police said Amber Jerome, 21, of Lombard, turned herself in on two warrants out of the DuPage County Sheriff’s Office in the 100 block of E. First at 9:40 p.m.
Dawand Lovett, 36, of Phoenix, Ill., was charged with burglary and two counts of retail theft, while Kieta Brown, 33, of East Hazel Crest, was charged with retail theft at a pharmacy in the 100 block of N. Robert Palmer at 3:59 p.m.
July 8
Logan Cruz, 26, of Chicago, was charged
with retail theft at a pharmacy in the 100 block of W. North. Police said Cruz was found to be in possession of stolen merchandise.
July 7
Gustavo Adolf Escobar Forero, 34, of Glen Ellyn, was charged with two counts of Theft and one count of Attempt Unlawful Possession of Identification Cards in the 100 block of Joanne at 10:10 a.m. Police said the suspect removed a package from the victim’s porch, placed it in a Grub Hub bag, and fled the scene. The total loss was approximately $70. Willie Ranson, 39, of Chicago, was charged with robbery near York and Schiller at 8:06 p.m. According to police, a victim told police she was walking on the sidewalk when suspect snatched her purse and fled on foot. Officers responded and established a perimeter in the immediate area. An open door was observed at a health care building and the victim’s purse was located inside. The suspect was also located inside and placed under arrest.
Police said that subsequent to a delayed theft report, a victim related that two packages were delivered to her front porch in the 500 block of S. Mitchell and one of them was missing. Upon checking security footage, a suspect described as a white male carrying an open Door Dash bag was seen taking the package. An investigation is pending.
July 5-July 6
A victim in the 100 block of N. Addison told police as 3:07 am. That an unknown suspect(s) took her electric scooter while it was parked at the above location. An investigation is pending.
Court grant’s state’s motion to detain man charged with leading police on multiple high-speed chases Elmhurst, Lombard, Villa Park police provide assistance pursuing, apprehending suspect
DuPage County State’s Attorney Robert Berlin and Carol Stream Chief of Police Don Cummings have announced that Judge Joshua Dieden granted the state’s motion to deny pre-trial release for a Woodridge man accused of fleeing from police at a high rate of speed on multiple occasions.
Jason Wesley, 32, appeared in First Appearance Court and was charged with one count of aggravated fleeing and eluding a police officer, a Class 4 felony. The court also ordered Wesley to be detained in two prior violation of an order of protection cases.
On July 6 at approximately 11:41 p.m., Carol Stream police attempted to conduct a traffic stop near North Avenue and Schmale Road of a Toyota Corolla allegedly driven by Wesley. Officers were familiar with Wesley and the vehicle as they knew that the defendant had numerous outstanding arrest warrants for offenses including retail theft, criminal damage to property and violation of an order of protection.
It is alleged that when the officer positioned his squad car behind Wesley and activated his emergency lights and siren, instead of pulling over, Wesley fled at a high rate of speed, reaching 109 mph in a 45 mph zone eastbound on North Avenue. It is alleged that Wesley drove erratically, narrowly missing other vehicles and passing vehicles on the shoulder.
After approximately 1.8 miles, the officer terminated the pursuit for safety reasons.
Later that evening, at approximately 1 a.m. on July 7, Wheaton police located the vehicle
and attempted to conduct a traffic stop.
It is alleged that when officers activated their emergency lights and siren, Wesley again fled. Officers immediately terminated the pursuit for safety reasons.
Several hours later, at approximately 4:57 a.m., Elmhurst and Villa Park police located the vehicle and activated their emergency lights and sirens to conduct a traffic stop. It is alleged, however, that Wesley once again fled. Officers pursued Wesley for approximately 12 miles but terminated pursuit near Busse Road and Central Road when Wesley’s vehicle allegedly reached speeds of approximately 114 mph.
Several hours later, officers received information that Wesley was staying at the Comfort Suites at 530 W. North Ave. in Lombard. Lombard police officers located Wesley hiding in a vacant room and he was taken into custody without incident.
At the time of his arrest, Wesley was out on pre-trial release on multiple violation of an order of protection cases.
“The allegations that a man with multiple active arrest warrants led police on three separate high-speed chases in one night are outrageous,” Berlin said. “Mr. Wesley’s alleged actions demonstrate a continued disregard for public safety and the rule of law, which will not be tolerated in DuPage County. Thankfully, no innocent motorists or bystanders were injured or worse, as a result of Mr. Wesley’s alleged actions.
“I thank the Carol Stream, Wheaton, Elmhurst and Villa Park police departments for not only their work and good judgement on this
Jason Wesley
Court grants state’s motion to detain pre-trial two women charged with stealing nearly $6,000 worth of merchandise from two Oak Brook stores
Driver allegedly rammed two police vehicles as she attempted to flee
DuPage County State’s Attorney Robert Berlin and Oak Brook Chief of Police Brian Strockis have announced that the Court granted the state’s motion to detain pre-trial two women accused of stealing nearly $6,000 worth of merchandise from two Oak Brook stores.
Martasia Barney, 26, of Chicago, and Psy’che Hayes, 35, of Dubuque, Iowa, appeared in First Appearance Court on July 9. Each was charged with two counts of burglary (Class 2 Felony), two counts of retail theft (Class 3 felony) two counts of criminal damage to government supported property (Class 3 felony), two counts of criminal damage to property (Class 4 felony) and one count of aggravated assault (Class 4 felony).
Through the course of an ongoing investigation, officers with the Oak Brook Police Department identified two suspects and a Volvo allegedly involved in the theft of a woman’s wallet on June 25. On July 8 at approximately 6:27 p.m., officers observed two women matching the description from the previous theft walking into the Oakbrook Center Mall from True Food Kitchen. It is alleged that the two women, later identified as Barney and Hayes, were carrying empty Forever 21 shopping bags with them.
Officers began surveillance on the Volvo, which was parked with the engine running, lights on, and backed into a parking stall spot. As officers surveilled the Volvo, they observed both suspects return to and enter the Volvo.
Officers then observed the women exit the Volvo and return to the mall, again carrying their empty Forever 21 shopping bags. When Barney and Hayes again returned to the Volvo, an officer approached them while in his squad car, at which time both wom-
• Chases
(Continued from page 6) case, but also for their ongoing efforts in keeping our roadways safe. I thank the Lombard Police Department as well for the successful apprehension of the defendant.”
“Over the past few months, this individual has tormented an innocent victim by allegedly violating a court issued order of protection,” Cummings said. “To magnify his criminal acts, it is alleged that Mr. Wesley would repeatedly flee from law enforcement in such a reckless manner that he regularly jeopardized the safety of our community. Through a coordinated law enforcement effort, this individual was taken into custody before he could cause grave injury to himself or someone else. In addition to my appreciation for the work displayed by the men and women of the Carol Stream Police Department, I would also like to thank the Lombard Police Department. Their diligent effort was instrumental in taking Mr. Wesley into custody.”
Wesley’s next court appearance is scheduled for Aug. 5, for arraignment in front of Judge Michael Reidy.
Martasia Barney Psy’che Hayes
en ran toward their vehicle and got inside.
The officer activated his emergency lights and sirens and parked his vehicle with the front bumper up to the Volvo’s front bumper in an attempt to prevent the suspects from fleeing.
It is alleged that Barney drove the Volvo into the squad car in an attempt to flee. It is alleged that when an officer approached the Volvo, Barney backed up, causing the officer to make an evasive move to avoid being driven over by the vehicle.
It is further alleged that Barney continued to reverse and crashed into an unoccupied Pontiac G6, pushing it out of the parking stall. It is alleged that Barney also struck an unoccupied 2013 Honda Civic parked beside the Pontiac.
It is further alleged that Barney crashed into another squad car, which had its emergency lights and sirens activated, in her attempt to flee.
Officers were able to break out the windows of the Volvo and take Barney and Hayes into custody. When officers arrested Hayes, she allegedly stated that this was “no big thing” and that she “would be out tomorrow.”
Following further investigation, it is alleged that Barney and Hayes entered the Aritzia women’s clothing store located at 75 Oakbrook Center, stole approximately $2,714 worth of clothing and then returned to their vehicle.
It is alleged that the pair then exited their vehicle, and went to Alo Yoga, located at 68 Oakbrook Center, where they stole approximately $3,282 worth of clothing before returning to their vehicle.
“The allegations that these two defendants stole nearly $6,000 worth
of merchandise from two Oakbrook Center stores and then, in an effort to escape, crashed their vehicle into four other vehicles, two of which were police squad cars, nearly striking a police officer, are extremely alarming,” Berlin said.
“The denial of pre-trial release for both Ms. Hayes and Ms. Barney sends the strong message that in DuPage County we will not tolerate the complete and utter disregard for public safety and the rule of law allegedly exhibited by Ms. Barney and Ms. Hayes. We are all thankful that
no one was seriously injured during this incident.”
“The reckless criminal actions of these two offenders are appalling,” Strockis said. “The Oakbrook Center Mall is the premier shopping and dining destination in Illinois, and we are steadfast in our efforts to keep it safe. This was a dangerous incident due to the reckless actions of the offenders and I’m grateful that no one was seriously hurt.”
The next court appearance for both women is scheduled for Aug. 5 for arraignment.
Chicago man arrested in Elmhurst purse snatching incident
Elmhurst Chief of Police Michael McLean announced last week the arrest and pre-trial detention of a Chicago man accused of robbing a woman of her purse on an Elmhurst sidewalk.
Willie L. Ranson, 39, appeared in DuPage County First Appearance Court on July 8, and was charged with one count of robbery, a Class 2 felony offense.
On July 7, at approximately 8:06 p.m., Elmhurst Police responded to the area of York Road and Schiller Street in downtown Elmhurst for a theft that just occurred. The dispatcher advised that a male suspect had “snatched” the victim’s purse while she was walking on the sidewalk. The suspect then ran from the scene.
Officers arrived and learned the victim was walking on the west sidewalk when an unknown male subject came up from behind her and
grabbed her purse. A struggle ensued, but the suspect gained control of her purse and ran away through an alley. Responding officers were able to gather nearby security video and a photo of the suspect at the scene.
A perimeter was established while officers and a police K9 searched the area for the suspect. While searching the area on foot, officers located an unlocked door to a closed business on the 100 block of North Addison Avenue one street west of the crime scene. Upon opening the door, officers observed the stolen purse just inside the door. Officers then gave commands to anyone inside the building to surrender. The suspect complied and was taken into custody.
According to the Elmhurst Police Department, the arrested offender— Ranson—was the same subject seen in the photo and security camera recording from the robbery scene.
“It is alleged that Mr. Ranson robbed an innocent woman of her purse while simply walking down a public sidewalk,” McLean said. “After Mr. Ranson committed this crime, he continued his criminal activity by attempting to conceal himself inside a closed private business. Once again, a criminal thought he could come to our community to commit a serious crime but was proven wrong by Elmhurst Police officers. Do not come to Elmhurst to commit a crime; we will use every method available to pursue and arrest those responsible. This incident is not representative of the safe environment present in the Elmhurst City Centre each day and the Elmhurst Police Department will not tolerate criminal activity that threatens our community safety.” Ranson’s next court appearance is scheduled for Aug. 5, for arraignment in DuPage County Circuit Court.
Viewpoint
Slices of life
Let it go
My granddaughter likes to watch a certain movie—over and over again. In it, the protagonist belts out a message in song: Let it go.
There’s lots to be learned from Elsa.
We should all be better at simply letting it go.
Letting things go.
Letting the past go.
Forgive. Forget. Like it never even happened. (Easier said than done.)
Letting the future go.
Be open to possibilities—even the ones you’ve never considered or imagined. Control is over-rated anyway. (Easier said than done.)
I learned the lesson of letting go awhile back, but I realized it (again) just this morning. I guess it’s an idea worth repeating. Or maybe we just have to remind ourselves over and over.
In the midst of the storm. In the midst of the calm. In the midst of whatever life throws your way.
Let it go.
The plans for today that go thwarted by a flat tire. The relationship that didn’t work out. The beach day ruined by rain. The marriage that ended in a bad way. When you planned on chicken for dinner and the grocery store is out of chicken.
When you utter harsh words you wish you could take back. When someone utters harsh words toward you. When you break a window. When you break your word. When the air conditioner breaks down on the hottest day of the year. When an unexpected expense threatens your monthly budget. When someone disappoints you and your heart feels like it is breaking. When any number of things crop into your day or your week or your life and you sigh because you didn’t want or expect that thing or person or event to crop up just then—or ever. But it did.
Just let it go.
Realize fully that you can’t change your circumstances. You most often have no control of your circumstances.
But you are in control of something even more powerful than circumstances: how you choose to perceive and react to them. And in that vein, I suggest (sing it with me):
Let it go.
I understand this isn’t easy. I know I am asking a lot. I realize sometimes letting go may be unattainable. It is for me some days. But I keep trying. As they say, tomorrow is another day.
By JILL PERTLER Columnist
In the song from Frozen, Elsa sings, “It’s funny how some distance makes everything seem small, and the fears that once controlled me can’t get to me at all.”
This pretty much sums up the rationale and benefit behind letting things go.
Time often brings with it the gift of perspective. When we truly understand this, the mundane of the everyday— however devastating or joyous—is fleeting. And there’s no reason to perseverate on the fleeting. Best to experience it and then move on.
Let it go.
Letting go is emancipating. It is breathing when breath was a daily struggle.
It is trusting in the future. It is forgiving the past.
It is making meatloaf for dinner when chicken isn’t available.
Letting go is liberating. It is growth.
And there are so many things we can let go.
Let go regrets. Let go drama. Let go trauma.
Let go of the big stuff. Let go of the small stuff.
Let go of the inconsequential. Let go of the life-changing.
Let go of the benign. Let go of the malignant.
Let go yesterday. Let go today. Let go tomorrow, and the day after that.
Let go thoughts of the way things should be. Let go ideas that don’t fit anymore. Let go of anything you can’t control (and let’s be honest, that is just about everything).
Let go and simply breathe. Life is beautiful. The world is beautiful, if we allow it to be.
And allowing it, most often starts with relinquishing control. With letting go.
It’s as simple, and as complicated, as that.
Give it a try. Give it a go.
Thanks, Elsa.
Jill Pertler is an award-winning syndicated columnist, published playwright and author. Don’t miss a slice; follow the Slices of Life page on Facebook.
Pritzker ‘all in’ for Biden following visit to White House
By Jerry Nowicki CAPITOL NEWS ILLINOIS
Gov. JB Pritzker said last week he is “all in” for President Joe Biden after visiting the White House with other Democratic governors.
He headed to Washington, D.C., to meet with the president and members of the Democratic Governors Association July 3 on the heels of Biden’s performance during the first of two scheduled debates with former President Donald Trump, which raised concerns about the president’s mental acuity.
The governors were seeking reassurances of Biden’s viability as a candidate following the June 27 debate performance.
On July 9, Pritzker said the exchange between Biden and the Democratic governors was “a robust discussion”—and he’s “all in” for Biden.
“Listen: Joe Biden is our nominee. I am for Joe Biden. I’ve been campaigning for Joe Biden. I think you’ve seen I’ve got dates scheduled to go to Indiana, to Ohio for Joe Biden,” he said at an unrelated event July 9.
Pritzker, who is frequently named as a potential Biden replacement should the campaign reach that point, was scheduled to speak at the Indiana Democratic Party’s Hoosier Hospitality Dinner in Indianapolis on July 12 before heading at the
Ohio Democratic Party’s Family Reunion in Columbus on July 13.
And he said he wouldn’t engage in “hypotheticals” when asked if he’d be interested in replacing Biden should he drop out of the race.
“What we’re doing is talking about why it’s important to reelect Joe Biden and Kamala Harris, and why it’s important to defeat Donald Trump, who’s trying to take away your freedoms, who’s trying to send jobs overseas, and frankly, would be bad for the economy and bad for working families,” Pritzker said. Pritzker said “it’s not unreasonable” for opinions to differ
Letter to the editor: A thank you to Elmhurst
Ten weeks ago, a zoning change sign appeared on the front lawn of 292 S. Arlington—a beautiful, century-old, impeccably maintained home. The imminent demolition of this home reflects a troubling trend that threatens Elmhurst’s character and charm. History, old-growth trees, green space, and an irreplaceable part of our town have been forever lost. Elmhurst’s vision for the future, as outlined in its Historic Preservation Ordinance and Comprehensive Plan, underscores the public interest in preserving our city’s heritage and unique character. However, we have strayed from this vision to our detriment. The continued demolition of historically and architecturally significant homes undermines Elmhurst’s appeal and long-term sustainability. Although we were unable to save 292 Arlington, its loss has rallied residents to work together to preserve our beautiful city. We deeply appreciate your support! Thank you for displaying a Preserve Elmhurst sign in your yard, and for joining our Facebook and email groups. Thank you for speaking out at city meetings and for advocating with our elected officials—expressing concerns over losing irreplaceable homes, green spaces, old-growth trees, affordable housing, and neighborhood diversity and charm.
We remain optimistic and believe that collaboration with our elected officials and city staff will lead to meaningful change. We’re pleased that our mayor and aldermen are taking steps to revive Elmhurst’s Historical Preservation Commission—an essential first step in addressing a very troubling trend. Thank you once again for your support!
Sincerely, Jim Schuetz, on behalf of Citizens for Elmhurst Preservation ElmhurstPreservation@gmail. com
Pre-trial release denied for man accused of attempted murder
Community calendar
Pick of the week:
Jarvell Rainey
DuPage County State’s Attorney Bob Berlin and Naperville Chief of Police Jason Arres have announced that Judge Joshua Dieden granted the state’s motion to deny pre-trial release for an Aurora man accused of shooting a woman in a car late last month.
Jarvell Rainey, 21, appeared in First Appearance Court and was charged with one count of attempted first-degree murder (Class X felony), one count of aggravated battery—discharge of a firearm (Class X felony) and one count of armed robbery with a firearm (Class X felony).
On June 23 at approximately 2:46 p.m., officers with the Naperville Police Department responded to a call of a gunshot victim in the 1000 block of Iroquois Avenue.
Upon their arrival, officers located the female victim suffering from a gunshot wound on the right side of her chest.
Officers immediately rendered aid and transported her to a local hospital for medical attention.
Following an investigation into the shooting, it is alleged Rainey and an unidentified individual drove to the Motel 6 located in the 1500 block of Naperville-Wheaton Road and picked up the victim, who got in the back seat of the car.
It is alleged that at some point in time, Rainey, who was in the vehicle, punched the victim in her right eye and shot her as he robbed her of her wallet, cell phone, backpack and an unspecified amount of cash. It is further alleged that after the shooting, Rainey forced the victim out of the car and fled.
Officers were able to identify Rainey as a suspect in the case, and on June 28, Judge Susan Alvarado issued an arrest warrant for Rainey.
On July 8, authorities located Rainey and another individual leaving the Comfort Inn and Suites located in the 300 block of S. Lincolnway St., North Aurora, and enter a vehicle.
Authorities pinned in the vehicle and took Rainey into custody without incident at that time.
“It is alleged that Mr. Rainey not only robbed an innocent, unarmed woman, but also shot her in the chest before forcing her out of the vehicle and fleeing the scene,” Berlin said. “This type of senseless violence and complete disregard for human life will not be tolerated in DuPage County. Thankfully, the victim in this case did not sustain life-threatening injuries. I commend the Naperville Police Department for their outstanding work in identifying Mr. Rainey as a suspect in this case and for their ongoing efforts in support of public safety. I thank the Aurora and North Aurora Police Departments, the U.S. Secret Service, the Chicago Crime Prevention and Information Center and the Memphis, Tennessee Police Department
for their assistance in this case.”
“Acts of violence that put our residents in danger cannot and will not be tolerated in our city. The men and women of the Naperville Police Department did an outstanding job of quickly identifying a suspect and setting a plan in motion to apprehend Mr. Rainey and hold him accountable for his actions,” said Chief Arres. “I would like to thank all of the jurisdictions that assisted in Mr. Rainey’s apprehension.”
Rainey’s next court appearance is scheduled Aug. 5 for arraignment in front of Judge Mia McPherson.
Illinois State Police issues alert about phone/text scam
The Illinois State Police is warning the public of a telephone/text scam currently circulating in Illinois.
The scammer reportedly sends a text message to victims stating that their vehicle has an unpaid toll invoice. The message directs victims to a link to supposedly settle the charges.
“This is not from the Illinois Department of Transportation,” stated the Illinois State Police. “If you receive this message, do not respond!”
The state police’s warning about the scam also included the following tips for residents:
• Do not respond to a text message or send money to a number you do not know. Scammers can be very aggressive in their techniques. One of their most commonly used techniques is to create a sense of urgency and fear in their potential victims in order to gain their personal information.
• The area code in the scammer’s text message is 263—the area code for Montreal, Canada—not Illinois.
• The spelling used in the scammer’s text is incorrect. Illinois Tollway is not spelled “Illinois Toll way.”
• The link in the scammer’s text message for the Illinois Tollway is also incorrect. To be sure of this, you can do a quick Google search for the Illinois Tollway and see the correct URL to the website is https://illinoistollway.com.
Saturday, July 20
Donkey Hodie puppet demo and workshop
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 18
From 6:30-8:30 p.m., all are invited to Music at the Gazebo on Spring Road by the Prairie Path, where the Spring Road Business Assn. welcomes Karla & The Phat Cats. Enjoy their soulful renditions of pop and rock music, along with original songs. Bring a picnic, lawn chair or blanket and sing along and dance. NOTE: This event is held on Park District property – NO alcoholic beverages allowed Info: SpringRoad. com/our-events.
Monday, July 22
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.
Thursday, July 25
• At 6:30 p.m., the SRBA presents the rescheduled Music at the Gazebo Concert at Wild Meadows Trace on Spring Rd. till 8:30 p.m. Performing will be the band Live Stream, with hits from the ‘80s and ‘90s. Be ready to dance and sing along to the music. Bring your lawn chair or blanket and enjoy musical entertainment as the sun sets. NOTE: This event is held on Park District property – NO alcoholic beverages. Info: SpringRoad.com/ our-events.
• At 7 p.m., GreenMan Theatre, the Elmhurst History Museum and the Elmhurst Public Library present “Stories from the Home Front 194145.” Delve into the untold history and stories of those who supported the war effort from Elmhurst and beyond. 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.
Thursday, Aug. 1
From 6:30-8:30 p.m., all are invited to Music at the Gazebo on Spring Road by the Prairie Path, where the Spring Road Business Assn. presents two acts. The students from Elmhurst School of Rock start the evening with their band, followed by The Sting Rays, who will close out the evening with music from the 50’s, 60’s, 70’s Rock ‘N Roll and some of today’s hits. Bring a picnic, lawn chair or blanket and sing along and dance.
NOTE: This event is held on Park District property – NO alcoholic beverages.
Info: SpringRoad.com/our-events.
Sunday, Aug. 11
From 2-3 p.m., the Elmhurst History Museum presents “Little Orphan Annie: Politics in the Funny Pages” in the museum’s Education Center. Amidst the backdrop of World War II, comic strip creator and Lombardian Harold Gray utilized his “Little Orphan Annie” comic strips to depict
Annie’s unwavering support for the home front. Annie was one of America’s darlings, gracing the comics and airwaves, and reminding us all to ‘drink our Ovaltine.’ Commemorate a century of “Little Orphan Annie” and exploring how this timeless creation played a role in shaping the cultural landscape during wartime. Presented by the Lombard Historical Museum. Free to members, $5 for non-members. Info: elmhursthistory. org.
Sunday, Sept. 1
From 6 a.m. to 10 p.m., the Elmhurst Walk-In Assistance Network (EWAN) will hold its annual “Cue for the Cause” fundraiser. Hold the date for this event which wraps up the end of summer. Grillers can register now to participate.
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 carry a fee. Info: elmhursthistory.org.
Elmhurst Art Museum
Final Weeks: Monsters in Wilder Park A Kid-Powered Art Show is currently on display through Wednesday, July 31.
Learn how to help others during an emergency U of I Extension offers Mental
One in five Americans has a mental illness, and depression and anxiety increased following the pandemic. Still, many are reluctant to seek help due to stigma or don’t know where to turn for care.
Unlike physical conditions, symp-
toms of mental health and substance use problems can be challenging to detect. Friends and family members may struggle to know when and how to step in. As a result, those in need of mental health services, especially youth and those in agricultural com-
Health First Aid training
munities, often do not receive care until it is a crisis.
The Mental Health First Aid training course equips individuals to recognize, comprehend, and respond to mental health or substance use challenges. Like CPR for heart attacks,
Worship Services Directory
St. Timothy Evangelical Lutheran Church
547 N. Main St., Lombard, IL 60148 630-627-2435
Sunday Worship at 10:15 am
Lent and Easter Services at 7 p.m.
Sunday School & Bible Study 9 am
“The Crucial Hours”
Wednesday Service at 7 pm
Second Lenten Service March 9, 2022
Mental Health First Aid empowers non-clinical participants to support those in crisis with a five-step action plan. This course offered by the University of Illinois Extension integrated health disparities team is available in English and Spanish and both in-person and online hybrid formats.
The program is designed for individuals interested in becoming mental health first aiders for youth. It is open to Extension staff and community members. Other community members can participate for a fee of $60. This fee covers training, course materials, and certification. The class can be delivered in one full-day session or split into two half-day sessions.
“Never has it been more important for our communities to talk about mental health and substance use,” said Chuck Ingoglia, president and CEO of the National Council for Mental Wellbeing, which helped bring the program to the U.S. in 2008.
“This program is breaking down barriers and stigma so we can learn how to support one another better. Without mental health, there is no health.”
For more information about taking the training, contact Andrea Fanta, mental health specialist, at andreaf3@illinois.edu.
To learn more about Mental Health First Aid, visit MHFA.org.
Elmhurst Public Library programs
Friday, July 19 2-4 p.m.
Friday Features: “The Odd Couple”
Enjoy an afternoon at the movies. Find each week’s featured film at elmlib.org/Friday.
No registration required.
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, July 27 Game Night at 4 pm
Everyone is Welcome!
Third Lenten Service March 16, 2022
Rev. Paul Spaude “What to Remember When Your are St. Matthews, Niles Seized with Remorse” Matthew 27:3-4
All services are live streamed. Watch on our website or on Facebook. sainttimothy.org
Fourth Lenten Service March 23, 2022
Friday, July 19 7-8 p.m.
Outdoor Concert: Elvis at EPL
Monday, July 22 7-8 p.m.
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
Gather with us for weekend worship! Saturdays 5 p.m. Sundays 8:30 and 11 a.m. Education Hour between services at 9:45 a.m.
Maundy Thursday Communion 7 p.m., April 14 Good Friday Tenebrae 7 p.m., April 15 Easter Sunrise 6:30 a.m., April 17 Easter Breakfast 8 a.m., April 17 Easter Festival 10:15 a.m., April 17
630-834 -6700 www.visitationparish.org
Weekend Masses: Saturday: 4 PM (Vigil) Sunday: 7:30, 9:30 & 11:30 AM and 6 PM
Daily Masses: Monday—Friday: 6:15 and 8:15 AM Saturday: 8:15 AM
Confessions: Saturday: 3-3:45PM
Adoration:
Celebrating over 50 years in show business, Rick Saucedo’s Elvis tribute show covers all areas of Presley’s career. Bring a blanket or chairs and join us outside for a summer evening of classic hits and songs.
No registration required.
Saturday, July 20 1-3 p.m.
Artist Drop-in: Donna Castellanos
Local artist Donna Castellanos creates the engaging and whimsical art found in the library’s first-floor lobby (across from the elevator). Learn about her creative process and make some art with her.
Live in-person. No registration required.
Sunday, July 21 1:30-3 p.m.
Plant Swap
Plant lovers of all ages are invited to meet at the Library to trade gardening supplies and pest-free plants, including houseplants, potted plants, cuttings, succulents, and more.
No registration required.
Monday, July 22 2:30-3:45 p.m.
Memory Café
Powerful Moments in Sports Author Marty Gitlin brings to life the most impactful moments in American sports history. Gitlin highlights events and athletes such as the Black Sox Scandal, Jesse Owens at the 1936 Berlin Olympics, the 1958 NFL Championship, the King-Riggs Battle of the Sexes, the 1980 Miracle on Ice, and much more.
Live in-person and on Zoom. Registration required.
Wednesday, July 24 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.
Thursday, July 25 7-8 p.m.
GreenMan Theatre Presents: Stories from the Home Front Journey back in time. Delving into the untold stories of those who supported the war effort from home during World War II. This presentation ties in with Victory at Home: 1941-1945, an exhibit at Elmhurst History Museum that runs until Aug. 18.
Live in-person and virtually on Zoom. Registration required.
Friday, July 26 2-4 p.m.
Friday Features: “Race” Enjoy an afternoon at the movies. Find each week’s featured film at elmlib.org/Friday.
This program is intended for those with mild cognitive impairment, Alzheimer’s, or a related dementia and their care partners for a shared experience to socialize and participate in an activity. Live in-person. Registration required.
No registration required.
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Elmhurst Garden Club declares successful Garden Walk & Faire
By Dee Longfellow FOR THE ELMHURST INDEPENDENT
Another successful Garden Walk & Faire has come and gone for the Elmhurst Garden Club, and it appears to be a rousing success.
It was perfect “garden” weather, albeit a little warm, temperatures creeping toward the 90s by mid-afternoon.
Members were stationed at the various homes to assist with the garden tours. The annual walk always features a public garden; this year, it was the Wilder Park Conservatory, which is currently celebrating its 100th anniversary.
Proceeds fund scholarships for college or university students studying horticulture, environmental studies or other related sciences.
Since 1996, the club has distributed in excess of $210,000 in scholarships.
Above: Among the vendors that attended the Elmhurst Garden Walk and Faire was the Illinois Bee Rescue project,
varieties and flavors of natural honey.
Left: A guest at the Elmhurst Garden Club’s annual Walk and Faire checks
purchase.
Elmhurst Garden Club president Diane Roubitchek chats with a guest who attended the annual Garden Walk and Faire on Sunday, July 14. The Garden Club was well-represented at its booth; plus, members were stationed at the various homes that opened their gardens to the public.
Real estate/Business
Pritzker signs health insurance reform measures
By Peter Hancock
CAPITOL NEWS ILLINOIS
New law bans practices aimed at lowering insurance payouts
Gov. JB Pritzker signed legislation July 10 that puts new controls on the state’s health insurance industry, including bans on certain practices companies have used to reduce costs by controlling the amount of health care services a patient receives.
The Health Care Protection Act, House Bill 5395, was among Pritzker’s top legislative priorities during the just-completed legislative session.
Pritzker also signed House Bill 2499, which bans the sale of shortterm, limited-duration insurance plans in Illinois – policies Pritzker and other critics refer to as “junk insurance” because they are not required to meet the minimum standards under the federal Affordable Care Act.
“For too long, insurance compa-
nies have used predatory tactics to make an extra dime at the expense of Illinois consumers,” Pritzker said at a bill signing ceremony in Chicago.
“For too long, patients have delayed or been denied medically necessary treatments because of profit-driver utilization management practices. For too long, shoddy networks, price gouging and overly complicated bureaucracies have stood in the way of our families getting the care that they deserve. Today, with my signature, Illinois is addressing and rectifying that problem.”
Among other things, the Health Care Protection Act bars the use of a restriction known as “step therapy,” also known as a “fail first” provision, that requires a patient to try and fail on one or more treatments preferred by the insurance company before they can access a treatment recommended by their doctor.
It also prohibits insurers from requiring prior authorization before a patient can receive emergency inpatient treatment at a psychiatric facility.
“Illinois, by the way, is once again a pioneer, the first state in the nation to do this for adults and children,” Pritzker said.
The new law also requires insurers to maintain accurate, up-to-date lists of providers in their networks. And it gives the Illinois Department of Insurance authority to approve or reject proposed premium rate changes in large-group health insurance plans, similar to the authority it already has over small-group plans.
Pritzker first announced the plan in his State of the State address in February, saying he expected stiff resistance from the insurance industry but vowing “to spend serious political capital” if necessary to pass the legislation.
The bill was, in fact, the subject of intense behind-the-scenes negotiations between the administration, insurance industry representatives, health care providers and other stakeholder groups. In the end, the final version of the act had little opposition and drew some Republican support. It passed 45-14 in the Senate and 83-23 in the House.
Part of the reason for the bipartisan support was that the more controversial provision banning the sale of short-term, limited-duration insurance plans was taken out and put into a separate bill.
Those policies are marketed as temporary plans intended mainly for people who find themselves in between coverage plans, often because of changes in employment. Supporters of the bill argued those plans provide substandard coverage and often
leave individuals liable for huge medical bills. But many Republicans argued that those policies provide a lower-cost option that suits the needs of some individuals.
That measure passed largely along party lines: 40-19 in the Senate, and 72-35 in the House.
Pritzker signed the two bills at a ceremony at Rush University Medical Center in Chicago where he was joined by lawmakers who supported the bill, as well as health care providers.
“The health insurance reforms passed by the Illinois lawmakers, many of them are right here, will ensure that administrative delays caused by the insurance companies as well as their inadequate provider networks, so called ghost networks, should be a thing of the past,” said Piyush Vyas, president of the Illinois State Medical Society.
Illinois Theatre Association’s 2024 Awards of Excellence presentation Aug. 3
On Aug. 3, eight theater professionals and educators will be honored as the recipients of the Illinois Theatre Association’s 2024 Award of Excellence.
The awards presentation will be during the Awards Brunch as part
of the Illinois Theatre Association’s Annual Members Celebration-A United Front, A Celebration of Theatre in Illinois, which will take place at Two Brothers’ Roundhouse, 205 N. Broadway, Aurora.
Each year the Illinois Theatre As-
sociation recognizes both individuals and organizations for their significant contributions of promoting quality theatre throughout the state of Illinois. The honorees were nominated by the Illinois theatre community and accepted by ITA’s Board of
Directors.
Among the recipients is Richard Arnold Jr., College of DuPage production coordinator, in the category of 2024 Awards of Honor, ITA member.
About the Illinois Theatre Mission Statement: The Illinois Theatre Association is a nonprofit organization whose purpose is to advocate for the important values that theatre at all levels in the state of Illi-
nois bring to individuals as we strive to expand hearts and minds through work both on the stage and off. Our work includes the important mission to inspire, engage, challenge, nurture, educate and empower artists and audiences in order to enhance the cultural landscape of Illinois, making our state a more conscious and compassionate community. Ultimately, we look to celebrate the essential power of the theatre to illuminate our common humanity.
State ends fiscal year with nearly $5 billion cash on hand
By Jerry Nowicki CAPITOL NEWS ILLINOIS
Illinois entered a new fiscal year July 1 with a bit of a financial cushion as the prior year’s revenues exceeded final projections by about $123 million.
The state ended fiscal year 2024 with about $4.7 billion cash on hand, or about 9 percent of the allocated spending for fiscal year 2025, which began July 1. That included a record high $2.1 billion in the state’s budget stabilization, or “rainy day” fund, which has seen its balance grow steadily over the past five years.
Comptroller Susana Mendoza noted the high cash balance helped Illinois generate over $558 million in interest income in FY24, a 53 percent increase from the previous year. She said in a news release she plans to exercise new authority granted to her office in the budgeting process this year to pre-pay required month-
ly pension payments while funds are available.
“This will enable the (pension) systems to plan accordingly and keep more of the pension funds in their investment portfolios,” Mendoza said in a statement.
Gov. JB Pritzker’s office said the year-end balance represents “part of a pattern of fiscally responsible policies.” He mentioned the nine credit upgrades Illinois has received from the nation’s three major credit rating agencies since he took office.
“Nine credit rating upgrades, bill backlogs eliminated, six balanced budgets, and now the state’s highest ever General Funds balance—this is the result of disciplined, responsible fiscal management that prioritizes serving taxpayers and helping working families,” Pritzker said in a statement.
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EMH Foundation’s 20th annual Autumn Affair set for Sept. 7
The Elmhurst Memorial Hospital (EMH) Foundation’s 20th annual Autumn Affair gala will be held Saturday, Sept. 7 at the Four Seasons Hotel Chicago, 120 E. Delaware Place in Chicago.
The event will begin at 6 p.m. with cocktails and a silent auction, followed by dinner, a live auction with auctioneer Chris Hensley and dancing with music provided by The DJ Firm.
The Autumn Affair is the Foundation’s largest fundraiser of the year and supports Endeavor Health Elmhurst Hospital programs and services that directly impact patients.
A variety of sponsorship opportunities are available, tables of ten or individual tickets can be purchased and individuals and businesses can donate items for the silent and live auctions, which will include an array of unique experiences, including travel, sports and dining.
For more information about purchasing tickets, becoming a sponsor or donating items for the auctions, visit www.EMHFoundation.org/ autumnaffair or contact the Foundation at (331) 221-0388.
Founded in 1980, the EMH Foundation offers many giving opportunities and annual special events designed to support the hospital’s programs and facilities, including the Autumn Affair, Chef Fest, Reindeer Route Housewalk and the Love Lights program. For more information, visit www.EMHFoundation.org or call (331) 221-0388.
Environmental award
The Villa Park Environmental Concerns Commission recently presented its Green Champion award to Sugar Creek Golf Course Superintendent Kevin Goss for his work on the Sugar Creek Restoration Project. The Sugar Creek Golf Course, which is located in Villa Park and receives thousands of visitors annually, is owned and operated by the Village of Villa Park and the Elmhurst Park District. The Sugar Creek Restoration Project was a collaborative effort by those two bodies to improve water quality in the Salt Creek watershed and benefit the local ecosystem. The project involved converting a degraded impoundment into a constructed wetland, restoring a stream channel, and removing a dam to facilitate the free flow of water between Sugar Creek and Salt Creek. The outcomes include protecting the water quality of Salt Creek, reducing pollutants, enhancing habitat for various species, and providing community outreach and education on water quality and native plants. Major construction was completed more than one year ago, on May 1, 2023. Planting and restoration continues.
THURSDAY,
Music at the Gazebo on Spring Road in Elmhurst is held at Wild Meadows Trace on Spring Road by the Prairie Path. All concerts go from 6:30pm - 8:30pm
We have music by Karla & The Phat Cats. Enjoy their soulful renditions of pop and rock music, along with original songs. Bring your lawn chair or blanket and enjoy an evening of musical entertainment as the sun sets for the day!
NEXT CONCERT IS JULY 25TH
We are honored to have Live Stream, a cover band performing hits from the 80s and 90s.
JULY 18, 2024 alcoholic beverages in the park is not permitted per Elmhurst Park District policy. * For more information go to: SpringRoad.com/
Author David Maraniss to speak at First Division Museum
The First Division Museum at Cantigny resumes its acclaimed Date with History series on Thursday, August 1, at 6 p.m. with a program inside the Cantigny Visitors Center. Two-time Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist and New York Times best-selling author David Maraniss will discuss “They Marched Into Sunlight: War and Peace, Vietnam and America, October 1967.”
After the program, which is free with paid parking ($5), guests are invited to McCormick House for a VIP cocktail reception with Maraniss. Reception tickets are $60 and must be ordered in advance at Cantigny.org.
Tickets include parking plus drinks and hors d’oeuvres in Freedom Hall, the historic home’s library.
Published in 2003, “They Marched Into Sunlight” tells the epic story of Vietnam through the events of a few gripping days of war and peace in October 1967. Maraniss skillfully brings
a tumultuous time in America back to life while exploring questions about the meaning of dissent and the official manipulation of truth.
The book—winner of the J. Anthony Lukas Book Prize and a finalist for the Pulitzer Prize in History--weaves together the stories of three different
NOTICE TO OUR READERS
worlds: the death and heroism of 1st Infantry Division soldiers in Vietnam; the anger and anxiety of antiwar students back home; and the obfuscating behavior of officials in Washington.
The Elmhurst Independent delivery will be changing in July
Receiving the weekly Elmhurst Independent is as easy as 1-2-3.
1. To receive the Elmhurst Independent mailed print version for one year, make a donation in any amount. IF YOU THINK THE INDEPENDENT IS WORTH 50¢ an issue, it would be $26.00; 75¢ an issue - $39.00 or $1 an issue - $52.00. You won’t get a tote bag, T-shirt, coffee mug or CD of Lawrence Welk’s Greatest Hits. But you will get the satisfaction of knowing that you have helped to support your favorite newspaper.
2. Pick up a free copy of the Elmhurst Independent print version at any one of more than 80 newsstand locations in Elmhurst every Thursday
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Please sign me up for weekly mail home delivery of the Elmhurst Independent print version for one year. Enclosed is my donation. Readers that have made a donation in the last year will continue to receive the Elmhurst Independent by mail at no charge for up to 12 months.
David Maraniss is an associate editor at The Washington Post, fellow of the Society of American Historians, and a visiting distinguished professor at Vanderbilt University. His affiliation with the Post spans for more than 40 years as an editor and writer, and he twice won Pulitzer Prizes at the newspaper. Among his 13 books are biographies on Barack Obama, Bill Clinton, Vince Lombardi, Roberto Clemente, and Jim Thorpe.
Copies of “They Marched Into Sunlight” will be available for purchase and signing at Cantigny. Doors open at 5:30 pm. Coffee, iced tea and water are complimentary.
The First Division Museum is open daily, except Tuesdays, from 10 am to 5 pm. Admission is free with Cantigny’s regular entrance fee. Visit FDMuseum.org for more details.
Bensenville Park District to show ‘Charlotte’s Web’
The Bensenville Park District invites families and community members to a special free movie night at Fischer Farm, located at 16W680 Old Grand Avenue in Bensenville, at 8 p.m. Saturday, July 20. Join for a delightful outdoor screening of the beloved classic, “Charlotte’s Web,” which will start at dusk.
“Bring your blankets, lawn chairs, friends and loved ones to Fischer Farm and enjoy a magical evening under the stars,” says Fischer Farm Manager Christine Shiel. “We are thrilled to host this free movie night at Fischer Farm, providing a wonderful opportunity for families to come together and enjoy a cherished story in such a beautiful, historic setting. It’s the perfect way to celebrate summer and community.”
“Charlotte’s Web,” based on E.B. White’s timeless children’s novel, tells the heartwarming story of a pig named Wilbur and his friendship with a clever spider named Charlotte, who devises a plan to save him from becoming dinner.
The event is free and open to the public, and food and beverages will be available for purchase. Fischer Farm is located at 16W680 Old Grand Avenue in Bensenville. Park patrons may arrive at 8 p.m., and the movie starts at dusk.
Fischer Farm is one of several historical gems of the Bensenville Park District, offering a glimpse into 19th- and 20th-century farm life with its preserved buildings, artifacts and educational programs. It serves as a unique venue for events and activities that connect the community with its rich heritage through agricultural education.
Movie at the Farm is a part of the Bensenville Park District’s Movie in the Park series, which provides free movies to park patrons throughout the summer as part of the district’s Park N Play initiative. Upcoming movies include the Dive in Movie presentation of “Elemental” at the Bensenville Water Park & Splash Pad at 7:30 p.m. Saturday, August 3, presented by Armando Perez State Farm.
PUZZLE Page
POSTCARD
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. Letter of the Greek alphabet
4. Cause to become entangled
10. Swiss river
11. Conversation
12. “Magnum” was one
14. Small integer
15. Christmas
16. Of a specific mountain region
18. Burrowing bugs
22. Of a symbol worthy of veneration
23. A type of syndrome
24. Cephalopod mollusks
26. Metric ton
27. Ornamental box
28. As quickly as can be done
30. “Hoop Dreams” subject
Arthur
31. Old TV part
34. Extinct flightless birds
36. Former CIA
37. Successor
39. Archaic form of you
40. Within
41. Danny Hurley’s alma mater
42. Not sacred or biblical
48. Written law
50. Popular hairstyle
51. Congressman
52. Type of font
53. A predetermined period in office
54. Pouch
55. Hormone that stimulates ovulation (abbr.)
56. One from a particular Asian region
58. One’s sense of self-esteem
59. Headgear used to control a horse
60. The habitat of wild animals
CLUES DOWN
1. A right conferred through legal means
2. American island state
3. Inflexibly entrenched 4. “Pollock” actor Harris
Foolish person
6. Follows a particular Chairman
Choose
Sunrooms
9. One hundred grams (abbr.)
12. A symptom of some physical hurt or disorder
13. South American hummingbird
17. “Girl Chopping Onions” painter
19. Wild dog
20. Units of land
21. Footwear
25. Possessing a constant temperature
29. Hormone that promotes water retention (abbr.)
31. Popular game
32. Pension (German)
33. Giant of industry
35. Inferred
38. One who revolves
41. Kept possession of
43. Loss of electricity
44. Stoppered bottle
45. Everything
46. First to walk on the moon
47. Engrave
49. Female organs
56. Equal to 1,024 bytes (abbr.)
57. Northeast
Elmhurst softball team wins district title
The Elmhurst Little League U-10 girls softball team won the Illinois District 10 championship last week. Elmhurst won the title after beating River Forest 8-4 in a July 10 battle at River Forest’s Keystone Park. The U-10 team’s victory gave the Elmhurst Little League program its first district championship in softball.
Timothy Christian track teams enjoy successful seasons
Girls qualified athletes in seven events; Boys qualified four events
By Mike Miazga CORRESPONDENT
Both the Timothy Christian boys and girls track teams had solid ends to their 2024 seasons. On the girls front, coach Kevin Hackert’s squad had representation at the Class 1A state meet in Charleston in seven events.
At state, sophomore Bella Potempa competed in the high jump, while Georgie Romano participated in the long jump. Elizabeth Alex ran the 800 at state, while Jenny Lumkes competed in the 300 low hurdles and Ella Potoshnick ran the 3,200 race. Alex, a sophomore, finished 11th in the state in the 800 with a time of 2:26.62 (after running 2:24.09 in prelims and finishing 12th to advance).
Potempa finished 16th in preliminar-
ies with a mark of 4-11, just missing a finals qualifications by one spot. Romano, a sophomore, finished 23rd with a mark of 15-6. Lumkes finished 10th in prelims with a time of 48.78 and missed qualifying for the finals in the 300 low hurdles by one spot. Potoshnick finished 28th in the 3,200 race with a time of 12:40.30.
The Timothy 800 relay team of Maike Dionela, Ashley Sikkenga, Romano and Laila Barefield competed, as did the 1,600 relay team of Sikkenga, Lumkes, Nora Bos and Alex. The 800 relay team took 21st with a time of 1:51.32, while the 1,600 relay team was 19th with a time of 4:16.93.
Alex was the sectional champion in the 800 with a time of 2:25.19 (second place was 2:29.38). Potempa was the sectional runner-up in the
high jump (4-9 3/4), while Romano was second in the long jump (160 1/2). Lumkes was second in the 300 hurdles (49.64) and Potoshnick ran below state-qualifying time at 12:24.62 and qualified for state. Timothy’s 800 relay team was second at the sectional (1:51.51), while the 1,600 relay team also was second (4:20.15).
“It was another great year for Timothy girls track and field,” Hackert said. “We had the largest team in school history, which added new challenges but brought a lot of young energy.” Other highlights during the 2024 season included the Trojans winning the 16-team Walther invitational. This event was held on Timothy’s home track — the first major invitational ever at the school. Timothy
Three York softball players earn all-state accolades
Burda, Kanouse and Steinecker honored for strong seasons; Dukes win 15 games, third in conference
By Mike Miazga CORRESPONDENT
The York softball team is well-represented on the 2024 Illinois Coaches Association (softball) all-state teams. York junior captain and pitcher Avery Kanouse and sophomore shortstop Lilly Burda were named to the ICA allstate second team, while freshman catcher-third baseman Sara Steinecker was named to the ICA all-state third team. Kanouse, Burda and Steinecker also were named to the all-West Suburban Conference Silver Division team. Seniors Katelyn Hood, Anna Kapotas, Isabella Lanciloti and Caroline LaSpisa earned all-WSC Silver academic honors.
York finished the 2024 season with a 15-16 overall mark and took third in the West Suburban Silver with a 6-6 record. York lost to Lyons Township 6-5 in a Class 4A regional semifinal game. York trailed 6-2 in the game heading into the bottom of the seventh and mounted a three-run rally. Burda had two doubles in the game, while Kanouse, Morgen Balfanz and Nubia Toledo each had a double. Toledo drove in two runs. Kanouse struck out five in five innings.
for state
also took second in the brand-new Chicagoland Christian Conference and took third at the competitive Class 1A sectional in Seneca.
“We graduated a couple great seniors but are very excited to keep the momentum with this very young and talented team,” Hackert said.
Timothy Christian boys track
The news was equally impressive for the Timothy Christian boys track and field team, which had athletes compete in four events at the Class 1A state meet in Charleston. Junior Jonathan Kelsey won the Class 1A Seneca sectional 400-meter dash title in 50.63. Coach John Vander Kamp noted Kelsey was ill the week of the
See TRACK, Page 19
Burda led the team in hitting at .457 and was named the team’s MVP. She had 43 hits, nine doubles, three triples, six homers and 20 RBI. She also led the team in runs scored with 26. Burda had an .808 slugging percentage and a .509 on-base percentage. Burda also had a .953 fielding percentage at shortstop with only four errors made in 85 total chances.
Kanouse hit .344 with 33 hits, five doubles, two triples, four home runs and 12 RBI and was hit by a pitch six times. In the circle, Kanouse posted a 2.12 ERA in 115 2/3 innings of work. She allowed only 87 hits and struck out 165 while walking only 32 batters. Opponents hit just .200 against her this season. Kanouse had five games where she struck out 10 or more batters, including a 15-strikeout performance against Glenbard See SOFTBALL , Page 19
SUBMITTED PHOTO Elmhurst Independent
IC Catholic Prep graduate
• Landmarks
(Continued from page 5)
Will play volleyball for Division II school
The $52.6 billion in revenue collected in FY24 was about 4 percent more than the $50.6 billion anticipated when lawmakers approved the budget last May. But lawmakers largely allocated those unforeseen revenues in a supplemental spending plan approved this May, so the cash on hand represents more of a cushion for the upcoming fiscal year than a license to approve more spending.
By Mike Miazga CORRESPONDENT
The cash on hand is also not the same as a surplus, as it includes dollars that may have been appropriated but not yet spent.
Recent IC Catholic Prep graduate Bella Leslie wanted to head east for college.
Leslie headed to Le Moyne
I feel like I would be so bored without it because it has been such a big part of my life.”
Leslie said she has plenty of memories from IC Catholic Prep’s coach Nancy Kerrigan’s program.
“ I’m committed to giving our state providers and vendors the stability and predictability that they should expect from state government.”
That’s partially due to the state eliminating the bill backlog, building its fund reserves and allocating money to tax incentive programs that have lured businesses to move or expand here, he wrote.
“Although the Census Bureau still estimates that Illinois is losing population, the rate of annual declines has slowed,” Varner wrote.
pact on country music, and her enduring legacy.
6 - Henry Ford Museum; Dearborn, Mich.
memorials celebrating his legacy.
9 - Andy Warhol Museum; Pittsburgh, Penn.
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.
The year-end revenues were published July 2 by the legislature’s fiscal forecasting agency, the Commission on Government Forecasting and Accountability. Eric Noggle, COGFA’s revenue manager, noted revenues matched the agency’s March forecast almost exactly—a rarity in a fiscal landscape that has been difficult to project since COVID-19 first upended state finances.
Both Pritzker and Mendoza celebrated the fact that Illinois no longer has a backlog of unpaid bills.
In the wake of a two-year state budget impasse between Republican Gov. Bruce Rauner and Democrats in the General Assembly in 2016 and 2017, the backlog had risen to about $16 billion. Now, all bills are paid within 30 days of reaching the comptroller’s desk, Mendoza said.
“All of the schools I was looking at were on the East Coast,” Leslie told the Independent last week. “I visited Le Moyne and really liked it. It reminded me of high school because it was a small school, and in a smaller school you will know a lot more faces than if I would have gone to a bigger school. The campus there is really pretty. It sits on a big hill and the scenery around it is great. Everything is pretty close together. They have very nice facilities. The volleyball program has good workout facilities and a nice locker room. I liked how modern it was.”
“I’m committed to giving our state providers and vendors the stability and predictability that they should expect from state government,” Mendoza said in a statement. “Having received countless hardship calls from these providers and vendors
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.”
• Pritzker
Leslie played volleyball and girls soccer at IC Catholic Prep all four years. She was a center-midfielder on the Knights soccer team.
on the president’s performance and political chances following the debate.
“There were questions of the president. He answered those questions. You know, some people came away with different impressions, maybe,” Pritzker said of Biden’s meeting with the governors.
Leslie’s volleyball journey started in the fifth grade, the first year she could play the sport at IC Grade School. She’s been playing club volleyball since seventh grade, most recently with the Chicago Elite group that practices out of Scores in Willow Springs and Montini High School in Lombard. “I’m really excited to be able to play volleyball in college,” she said. “It gives me something to do.
But despite some members of Congress calling for Biden to step aside—including U.S. Rep. Mike Quigley of Chicago—Pritzker said he believes Democrats are united in their efforts to defeat Trump.
• Track
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.”
–Susana Mendoza, Comptroller
during the state’s budget impasse, I believe it is the responsible approach we must continue to take.”
Still, COGFA’s June report noted that while state finances have improved in recent years, Illinois’ economy continues to lag the U.S. as a whole.
“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.”
“Illinois’ poor economic performance has many contributing factors. The State has earned a reputation for poor fiscal health over decades,” COGFA chief economist Benjamin Varner wrote in the monthly briefing.
He mentioned the budget impasse, Illinois’ “relatively high business taxes,” and stagnant or declining population growth as contributing factors.
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.”
“Despite these challenges, the situation has been improving in recent years,” Varner added. “The state’s budget has been more balanced over the past five years, thanks to federal government aid, a strengthening economy, and improved budgetary discipline. This has led to a much more stable financial situation.”
(Continued from page 8)
He added that his advice to Biden was to “go out there and answer all the questions,” and to “show people that he is the leader of the free world.”
Leslie said pandemic life hasn’t been overly exciting, though her club volleyball team has started practicing again. “We have been practicing two or three times a week,” she said. “We are going to be starting tournaments again. Before that I haven’t been doing anything because senior soccer season and the club volleyball season were cancelled. We were supposed to go to a few club volleyball qualifiers in Grand Rapids and Louisville. This summer, we have some tournaments planned over the next few weekends. They are little tournaments with all of the local clubs. Nothing large and really local. Other than that, I have been trying to work out a lot and stay in shape. I’ve been running a lot, so I got into that. I try and run every day.”
Leslie said she is scheduled to report to Le Moyne in the Aug. 1215 timeframe, but noted preseason volleyball activities already have
“I think that, obviously, the president had a bad performance at a debate—that doesn’t help anybody. He knows that,” Pritzker said. “And what you have to do is stand up, say ‘I didn’t do it well,’ which I think he’s said, and prove people wrong about what they want to say about him. And he’s doing that.”
It was a similar comment to one he made in a recent CNN interview
(Continued from page 18)
state meet and missed two practices, but managed to qualify for the state finals, being ranked ninth. In the finals, Kelsey earned a fifthplace medal with a time of 51.33. He ran 51.11 in the preliminaries.
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.”
place finish at state with a career-best time of 8:24.99, missing a finals appearance by one place (8:24.80 was the 12 th-place time).
“ 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
Pritzker has also frequently noted that the state has lowered the corporate franchise tax paid by businesses in Illinois, exempting the first $10,000 in liability under the tax beginning in 2025. In 2019, the governor signed a plan to fully phase out that tax, but he ultimately reversed that decision amid the COVID-19 pandemic.
He and lawmakers have since increased the exemption from $30 in 2020 to $10,000 in 2025—a doubling from the previous year.
such a big part of my life.”
– Bella Leslie
As for the fiscal year 2024 revenues, Illinois’ main funding source remains the personal income tax. Noggle noted the state collected $30.1 billion in personal income tax revenue in FY24 along with $6.5 billion in corporate income tax revenue, which collectively performed better than the previous year.
The Henry Ford Museum is part of The Henry Ford complex, offering a vast collection of artifacts that celebrate American innovation and ingenuity. The museum showcases historic cars, including the Model T, artifacts from American history, and exhibits on technological advancements. Visitors can explore the museum’s extensive collections, interactive displays, and special exhibitions. The site also includes Greenfield Village, an open-air museum with historic buildings and reenactments.
7 - Prince’s Paisley Park; Chanhassen, Minn.
The Andy Warhol Museum is the largest museum in North America dedicated to a single artist. It offers an extensive collection of Warhol’s works, including paintings, drawings, prints, sculptures, and film. The museum provides a comprehensive look at Warhol’s artistic evolution and his influence on contemporary art and popular culture.
10 - Emily Dickinson Museum; Amherst, Mass.
The Emily Dickinson Museum preserves the home and legacy of one of America’s greatest poets. The site includes the Homestead, where Dickinson was born and wrote most of her poetry, and the Evergreens, her brother’s home. Visitors can explore the beautifully restored rooms, view Dickinson’s personal belongings, and learn about her life and work through interactive exhibits.
For the new fiscal year that began July 1, lawmakers approved $53.1 billion in spending, or roughly 1 percent more than FY24’s final revenues.
But Noggle also noted the last fiscal year included about $881 million in one-time revenues from sources that won’t repeat in FY25—so base revenues will have to grow by over 2 percent to meet spending demand.
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.”
Paisley Park is the legendary estate and recording studio of the musician Prince. The complex has been transformed into a museum that offers tours of Prince’s living quarters, studios, and performance spaces. Visitors can view personal artifacts, costumes, awards, and instruments, gaining insight into Prince’s creative process and his contributions to music.
8 - Elvis Presley birthplace; Tupelo, Miss.
45 - Frank Lloyd Wright home and studio, Oak Park
in which he suggested Biden do more public appearances to turn the tide following the debate.
The Democratic National Convention is scheduled for Aug. 19-22 in Chicago, but Democrats plan to nominate Biden prior to that date virtually—a move that is needed to ensure he can appear on the Ohio ballot.
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.”
When asked about the possibility of the DNC convention being “brokered” for another candidate, Pritzker said: “I don’t expect that to happen. We’re going to have an orderly convention.”
• Softball
The second feature for the king of rock ’n’ roll, is Elvis Presley’s birthplace—a humble two-room house where Elvis was born. The site includes the house, a museum, and a chapel, offering visitors a glimpse into Elvis’s early life. Exhibits detail his childhood, family, and the beginnings of his musical career. The surrounding park features statues and
The Frank Lloyd Wright home and studio is a preserved architectural treasure where the legendary architect lived and worked. The site includes Wright’s residence and his design studio, showcasing his early architectural innovations. Visitors can explore the beautifully restored rooms and learn about Wright’s revolutionary ideas through exhibits and guided tours. The home and studio offer a unique insight into Wright’s creative process and his contributions to modern architecture, making it a must-visit for architecture enthusiasts.
U12 baseball action
Bucolo fires a pitch during a recent
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ble and transparent and communicate with everybody.”
(Continued from page 18)
Sophomore Chandler Brady hit a career-best 21-4 3/4 at the Seneca sectional and earned a state berth. Brady was ranked 15 th heading into the state meet and finished 10 th there in Charleston with a mark of 20-11 1/4.
The Timothy 3,200 relay team of Plaisier, Gio Molina, Isaac Plaisier and Ryan McKenzie qualified for the state meet as well (second-place time of 8:57.29) and was ranked 31 st coming out of sectionals.
The quartet improved to a 13 th -
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
Also at Seneca, the Timothy 1,600 relay team of Andrew Martinez, Tyce Plaisier, Caleb Hoekstra and Kelsey qualified for state with a career-best time of 3:34.83 (fourth-place finish).
That group entered the state meet ranked 30 th and in Charleston it improved to 26 th place with a time of 3:37.89.
“We had a very good season,” Vander Kamp said.
“We placed fifth as a team at sectionals and we are already looking forward to what we can accomplish in 2025.”
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
West. She struck out 13 two times against Lane Tech and Bolingbrook and had a pair of 11-strikeout efforts against Glenbard North and Maine South. She had 14 games where she walked zero or one batters.
Steinecker hit .354 as a freshman on the varsity with 29 hits, seven doubles, two triples, 3 home runs and 16 RBI. Sophomore Maggie Demopoulos hit .271 with 26 hits, 19 runs scored, three doubles, four triples, two home runs and 11 RBI. Balfanz, also a sophomore, had 20 hits, four doubles and 11 RBI.
“Our team is young,” York coach Lisa Fraticola said. “They started learning to play together toward the end of the season.”
As far as the future, Stopka wants York competing at a high level on a consistent basis. “The short-term goal is to restock and build up the team,” he said. “A large portion of last year’s team was seniors, especially the starting 11. We have to make sure the now juniors are up to the speed of the varsity level and are ready to contribute. We want to keep that pipeline going with the younger groups of players. We want to make sure we are not only competitive, but that we are competing for regionals, sectionals and supersectionals. It starts for me with this junior class that is coming in. We want them ready to go and setting the standard for these other classes that come in so they can also contribute right off • Stopka (Continued from page 18)
proudly presents
YORK HIGH SCHOOL PLAYERS OF THE WEEK
LILLY BURDA, AVERY KANOUSE, SARA STEINECKER - YORK SOFTBALL
Steinecker were named to the all-state third team. Junior captain Kanouse hit .344 at the plate and struck out 165 batters in 115 2/3 innings of work in the circle. Steinecker hit .354 as a freshman with three home runs and 16 RBI. All three were also named to the all-West Suburban Conference Silver Division team.
Former GOP state lawmaker, candidate for governor sentenced to 42 months in prison
Sam McCann abruptly ended February trial in guilty plea for stealing campaign funds
By Hannah Meisel
CAPITOL NEWS ILLINOIS
Former Republican State Sen. Sam McCann was sentenced to 42 months in federal prison July 9 for stealing nearly $700,000 in campaign funds and attempting to conceal his theft with false reports to state election authorities.
In February, McCann pleaded guilty to seven counts of wire fraud and one count each of money laundering and tax evasion – but only after prosecutors had spent nearly three days presenting evidence against him at trial.
U.S. District Judge Colleen Lawless hearkened back to that moment as she was handing down her sentence, saying McCann’s refusal to “accept responsibility” until the last possible moment factored into her calculation for prison time. She also told McCann she was bothered that he “continued to steal” all while “holding yourself out (to be) a God-fearing public servant.”
“That may have been part of your stump speech and your public persona,” Lawless said. “But just because you said it over and over does not make it true.”
McCann appeared in Lawless’ courtroom clad in the gray-and-black striped uniform of the Macon County Jail, where he’s been held since shortly before his trial began in February. The
judge had ordered him detained when he disobeyed her directives after his sudden unexplained hospitalization on the eve of trial further delayed court proceedings, and she declined to release him on home confinement after his guilty plea to await sentencing.
But in addressing Lawless on July 9, McCann said he was “thankful” for his time in jail because of the relationships he was developing with other detainees and correctional officers. He also said he was coming to understand how some of the votes he took during his eight years in the General Assembly translated to real-world policy that contributed to his fellow detainees’ involvement with the criminal justice system.
“I’d trust these men more than some of my colleagues in Illinois government,” McCann said of his fellow detainees.
A ‘brazen...fraud’
McCann was elected to the Illinois Senate in 2010, and then twice more in 2012 and 2016. During his eight years in office, McCann represented a rural district spanning from Springfield westward to the Missouri border, sometimes breaking from his own party to vote in the interest of organized labor—a key constituency for Democrats.
McCann’s disagreements with GOP leadership ultimately led to him leaving the Republican Party and forming his own “Conservative Party.” In 2018, McCann ran on his new third-party ticket for governor, garnering $3 million from the International Union of Operating Engineers—a funding move seen as a strategic way to draw votes away from then GOP Gov. Bruce Rauner, who was deeply unpopular with organized labor.
Though prosecutors alleged McCann’s illegal campaign spending dated back to 2015, it ramped up in 2018, coinciding with McCann’s run for governor and accompanying infusion of cash.
The government’s evidence included checks and bank statements showing McCann used campaign money to pay two mortgages and delinquent loans in addition to helping finance multiple vehicles and vacations. McCann also fraudulently cut himself checks for work not performed and double-dipped on reimbursement for miles driven.
During the summer of 2018, federal agents approached McCann about his campaign spending, but he denied any wrongdoing. In several hours of FBI recordings of the meetings played during trial, McCann stumbled over
his explanations about why his campaign was paying to lease RVs and properties McCann personally owned, while the agents warned him that lying to them could land him in hot water.
Even so, Assistant U.S. Attorney Tim Bass reminded Judge Lawless on Tuesday, McCann kept spending the campaign money all the way up through mid-2020, including buying another RV and cutting himself regular checks from the basically defunct Conservative Party of Illinois long after losing his bid for governor.
Bass said the continuation of illegal campaign fund spending even after multiple interviews with federal agents was McCann’s “most brazen” act of “fraud.”
“This wasn’t a one-off. This wasn’t an anomaly,” Bass said. “He continued to use campaign funds for his personal expenses up to the point where there was nothing left.”
McCann was indicted in early 2021, two years after he left public office after his failed third-party run for governor.
On July 9, attorney Jason Vincent asked Lawless for 12 months in prison—way below the sentencing guidelines that suggested an imprisonment of between 37 and 46 months. Bass had asked Lawless to give McCann the maximum 46 months.
Vincent argued that McCann had already “been disgraced through his own actions” and pointed to the number of pre-sentencing letters of support he’d received from McCann’s family, friends and even former constituents.
While Lawless said the show of support from McCann’s family was encouraging, the judge said she ultimately viewed his actions in the larger context of other public corruption cases.
“Greed coupled with the abuse of power has become expected of public servants,” she said.
In addition to his prison sentence, McCann was also ordered to pay $683,816.61 in restitution, which will be split between Local 150 and the Illinois Education Association, which gave to McCann for his campaigns prior to 2018.
He spent the next three years after charges were filed against him maintaining his innocence, refusing multiple plea agreements and eventually electing to represent himself at trial after burning through multiple court-appointed attorneys. Ultimately, however, McCann accepted legal representation after his sudden hospitalization on the eve of his already-delayed trial in February.
GreenMan Theatre to hold auditions
for
‘Miss Holmes’ production on July 21, 22
Those interested in acting in GreenMan Theatre Troupe’s production of “Miss Holmes” by Christopher M. Walsh are invited to audition for its September 20 – October 6, 2024, performance of the play, based on characters by Sir Arthur Conan Doyle. Auditions will be held at 2 p.m. Sunday, July 21, and 7 p.m. Monday, July 22, 2024, in GreenMan’s performance space at First United Methodist Church of Elmhurst, 232 S. York St.
Turning the famed Sherlock Holmes narrative on its original Victorian ear, “Miss Holmes” centers on Miss Sherlock Holmes and Dr. Joyce Watson, who work together to uncover the secrets surrounding a corrupt police inspector whose wives have a habit of turning up dead.
But these Holmes and Watson characters face far greater trials than bringing the cunning criminal to justice. “This story challenges the expectations of the typical Sherlock Holmes story from the Victorian Era because of its changed gender roles,” said Becca Easley, director. These clever role switches appealed to Easley. “I really like well written shows that put female characters forward.”
GreenMan Theatre’s “Miss Holmes” cast will feature nine roles, with most roles doubled except Sherlock and Holmes. For a complete list of roles and character descriptions, log on to www.greenmantheatre.org/ miss-holmes.
Auditions will consist of cold readings from the script. Because “Miss Holmes” is set in 1881 Lon-
Police invite senior citizens to July 26 breakfast presentation about frauds and scams
RSVP by July 19
The Elmhurst Police Department invites senior citizens to attend next week’s breakfast presentation on “Protecting Yourself from Frauds and Scams,” which will take place from 10 a.m. to noon on Thursday, July 26, at The Roosevelt at Salt Creek, 400 W. Butterfield Road, Elmhurst.
Breakfast will be provided at the event.
Fraud experts from the Elmhurst Police Department and Community Bank of Elmhurst will discuss how to recognize financial scams. Those experts will also talk about strategies to keep seniors and their money safe.
Attendance is limited. RSVP by July 19. To reserve a place at the breakfast, call 630-473-3482, or email info@liveattheroosevelt.com.
don, auditionees should be prepared to audition with British accents. Callbacks will be held Tuesday, July 23, 2024, in the evening as needed. Auditionees are asked to specify on their audition form if there is a callback conflict.
To sign up for an audition slot, email gmttauditions@gmail.com.
Those unable to make the July 21 and July 22 audition dates should email the aforementioned address by Saturday, July 20, 2024, to make other arrangements. If unable to keep an audition slot, auditionees are asked to cancel so others may attend. Rehearsals will begin at the end of July and will typically be held four days each week.
In its 21st season, GreenMan Theatre Troupe is a non-profit 501[c]3 organization whose mission is to provide a source of cultural enrichment and pride for the community by presenting diverse, quality productions and providing opportunities for personal growth in the theatrical arts. GreenMan has been presenting plays in Elmhurst since being founded in 2003. Past productions include “The Odd Couple,” “Dracula,” and “Pride and Prejudice.” GreenMan also offers classes and workshops for members and the community and welcomes new members and participants in all aspects of theatre production. GreenMan programs are partially supported by Explore Elmhurst, as well as other individual and corporate donations.
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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.
