ComEd crews work to restore power to homes on Poplar Ave. near South Street in Elmhurst after severe storms hit the area on the night of July 15. Some homes were without power for more than 44 hours. The severe weather system slammed northern Illinois and the Chicago area, producing severe thunderstorms, wind gusts of up to 75 mph in some areas, and tornadoes. Warning sirens were heard throughout DuPage County after 9 p.m. As many as 24 tornadoes were reported in the Chicago area, including one outside of O’Hare Airport. At one point, ComEd reported that more than 400,000 customers were without power on the evening of July 15.
CLARK MAXWELL PHOTOS Elmhurst Independent
State law requires dental exams on all Illinois children in or entering Kindergarten, 2nd grade, 6th grade and 9th grade. Call today and schedule your child’s appointment.
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The Elmhurst Independent is mailed at no charge by request to residents in the 60126 zip code area. Out-of-area mail subscriptions are $29.95 yearly. Single copies are also available at more than 80 newsstand locations in Elmhurst. For home delivery information call 630.834-8244.
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‘Duck Duck’ comes to visit
At the puppet demo and workshop at the Elmhurst Art Museum on Saturday, July 20, Donkey Hodie’s friend Duck Duck came out to say hello as part of Family Day. After the program, families were invited to create their own puppets.
Patience is a virtue
This little girl in the front row waits patiently for the puppet demo to begin at the Elmhurst Art Museum on Saturday, July 20. The demo featured Donkey Hodie as well as Duck Duck.
Donkey Hodie makes the scene
Above: At the Elmhurst Art Museum’s puppet demo and workshop, Donkey Hodie himself showed up to greet guests and delight the crowd. The current exhibition, Designing Donkey Hodie—From Make-Believe to Someplace Else, will remain through Aug. 11.
Above middle: You can just see the delight in this little girl’s eyes as she watches the Donkey Hodie puppet demo at the Elmhurst Art Museum. After the demo, families were invited to create their own puppets using mixed media provided by the museum.
Left: The Elmhurst Art Mu-
staff was on hand with multi-media items to offer to the puppet-makers following the puppet demo. This is just one of the designs made by a guest.
DEE LONGFELLOW PHOTOS Elmhurst Independent
seum
THURSDAY, JULY
We are honored to have Live Stream, a cover band performing hits from the 80s and 90s. Bring your lawn chair or blanket and enjoy an evening of musical entertainment as the sun sets for the day!
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
NEXT CONCERT IS AUGUST 1ST
The students from Elmhurst School of Rock, start the evening with their band, followed by The Sting Rays who will close out the evening.
Lezza’s is Open till 6pm so stop in for all your concert treats! Gelato • Italian Ice • Cookies • Cake Pops Candy • Popcorn • Grab & Go Treats
We’re scooping Italian Ice and Gelatos on the patio!
Tuesday-Saturday 5-9pm and Sundays 5-8pm
25, 2024 alcoholic beverages in the park is not permitted per Elmhurst Park District policy. * For more information go to:
Police beat
The Elmhurst Police Department recently reported the following arrests and citations. Persons charged with domestic battery are not named in order to protect the privacy of victims. Readers are reminded that an arrest does not constitute a conviction, and that subjects are considered innocent unless proven guilty in a court of law. Juveniles age 17 or younger are not named.
Assault, battery
July 16
Jose Velasquez, 21, of Elmhurst, was charged with battery, violating pre-trial release and disorderly Conduct near North and Willow at 1:52 p.m. Police said a victim reported the suspect was jumping on a City of Elmhurst forestry vehicle before battering a public works employee.
Fatima Ontiveros, 34, of Villa Park, was issued a citation for disorderly conduct in the 600 block of W. North at 10: 45 a.m.
DUI, DUI-drugs,
transportation of open alcohol, possession of open alcohol, consumption of alcohol by a minor
July 16
Andriy Lavrynovych, 21, of Hanover Park, was charged with DUI-drugs, speeding and attempted unlawful use of a weapon subsequent to a traffic stop near Route 83 and I-290 at 8:45 p.m. Police said the suspect was driving under the influence of cannabis and in possession of a loaded firearm.
Juan Jimenez-Moreno, 20, of Addison, was charged with zero tolerance, consumption of alcohol by a minor, open alcohol by driver, improper lane usage and failure to signal subsequent to a traffic stop near I-290 and Route 83 at 3:26 a.m.
July 14
Jennifer Wayzer, 52, of Northlake, was charged with DUI and no insurance near North and Clinton at 1:50 a.m.
July 11
Hiram Weyman Vasquez Martinez, 33, of Bensenville, was charged with DUI and leaving the scene of an accident near York and North at 3:02 a.m.
Fleeing, eluding
According to information provided last week by the Elmhurst Police Department, police reported one incident of fleeing and eluding during which the driver of a vehicle fled the scene after being stopped for a traffic stop by police.
Suspicious incident
July 14
Joseph Fioti, 36, of Lombard, was issued a citation for disobeying a police officer near North and Berteau at 10:35 a.m. Police said Fioti exited his vehicle and started removing barricades that were blocking off eastbound
North Avenue due to the roadway being flooded. The suspect was told by the officer several times to stop removing the barricades, according to police.
Identity theft, fraud
According to information provided by the Elmhurst Police Department, police reported four incidents of identity theft or fraud.
Possession of cannabis in a vehicle
According to information provided last week by the Elmhurst Police Department, police reported seven incidents of possession of cannabis by either the driver of a vehicle or a passenger: Darrien Doss, 33, of Maywood, in the 100 block of W. First at 8:02 p.m. July 12; John Pickle, 24, of Elmhurst, near Butterfield and Cambridge at 8:42 p.m. July 12; Romunda Johnson, 29, of Aurora, near Crestview and York at 9:09 p.m. July 12; Marcus Gordon, 24, of Chicago, near North and Michigan at 11:33 p.m. July 12; Simone Bedarik, 20, of Elmhurst, in the 100 block of N. Addison at 7:35 p.m. July 13; Jalon Chiles, 25, of Broadview, near North and Myrtle at 9:04 p.m. July 14; and Frances Mendez, 25, of Bensenville, near York and Grand at 3:10 p.m. July 15.
A victim at a store in the 600 block of N. York reported her wallet was stolen while shopping at the store. The victim discovered several unauthorized transactions were made on her credit cards. A reporting officer reviewed video footage, which shows an unknown suspect reached into the victim’s purse before leaving the store in a gray Dodge Durango with no plates.
July 14
A victim at a business in the 500 block of W. Lamont told police that an unknown person(s) stole a trailer that was left unsecured backed into the docks.
July 13
Desean L. Nickelson, 30, of Chicago, was charged with retail theft and driving with a suspended license at a store in the 900 block of S. York at 10:47 a.m. Police said a complainant related the suspect exited the store with bottles of liquor and did not pay for the merchandise.
Police said that subsequent to a retail theft in progress at a store in the 300 block of S. Route 83, the suspects were located and found to be
in possession of stolen merchandise. Denisa Miclescu, 22, of Schaumburg, was charged with burglary and retail theft. Francesoa Tranca, 23, of Schaumburg, also was charged with burglary and retail theft.
July 12
Police said unknown suspects entered the locker room at a fitness center in the 100 block of N. York, forced entry to three lockers, and stole a wallet containing credit cards from one victim. The suspects removed keys from the locker of another victim, entered that victim’s vehicle, and stole his wallet from the vehicle’s center console. The suspects attempted to use the stolen credit cards at a grocery store. The attempted charges were declined.
July 10
Police said officers responded to a business in the 700 block of Industrial at 7:26 a.m. for a reported commercial burglary. Officers were advised the lock to the gate for the business had been cut. A Ford F-250 was also taken, but later located at 188 Industrial. A freightliner truck used for electrical repairs and the office trailer were also found burglarized. Various tools and equipment were discovered missing.
A victim in the 100 block of S. Grace told police unknown male suspects stole a package from his porch at 11:35 a.m.
A victim in the 400 block of N. Emroy told police that she believes suspects from a cleaning service she uses stole cash from her residence. The victim contacted the owner of the cleaning company, who related that the suspect denied taking the money.
July 7
A complainant at a store in the 200 block of S. Route 83 told police at 5:49 p.m. that unknown suspects took several bottles of liquor and a slice of pizza and exited the store without paying.
Warrant arrest
July 15
Police said that subsequent to a traffic stop near Gladys and Michigan at 7:32 p.m., Manuel Tapia, 55, of Elgin, was found to have an active warrant out of Cook County. He also was charged with driving while license suspended and disobeying a stop sign.
July 12
Police said Michael A. Guzman Andrade, 23, of Addison, came to the police department lobby at 8:23 a.m. to turn himself in on a warrant. The suspect was found to have one warrant out of Cook County, and three warrants out of DuPage County, according to police.
Man gets 27 years in stabbing death of his 93-year-old mother
DuPage County State’s Attorney Robert Berlin has announced that a former Bartlett man found guilty but mentally ill in the stabbing death of his mother in 2019 has been sentenced to 27 years in the Illinois Department of Corrections.
Edward Mitzelfeld
On April 12, Judge Daniel Guerin rendered his guilty but mentally ill verdict against Edward Mitzelfeld, 69, following a seven-day-long bench trial that concluded on March 22.
On May 31, 2019, facing five counts of first-degree murder, Mitzelfeld appeared in bond court where bond was set at $5 million with 10 percent to apply. He has remained in custody at the DuPage County Jail since that time.
On May 29, 2019, at approximately 5:23 p.m., officers with the Bartlett Police Department responded to a call at the home Mitzelfeld shared with his 93-year-old mother, Frances Kelly.
Upon their arrival, officers encountered Mitzelfeld in the front yard of the house with his hands raised. After entering the home, officers found Kelly lying face down on the kitchen floor in a pool of blood.
Following an investigation into the murder, it was determined that Mitzelfeld and Kelly were in the kitchen together when Mitzelfeld stabbed Kelly numerous times in the back with a kitchen knife leaving stab wounds that severed her aorta and entered her lungs. After the murder, Mitzelfeld called 911.
“Judge Guerin sentenced Edward Mitzelfeld to 27 years behind bars, essentially a life sentence, for the stabbing death of his 93-year-old mother,” Berlin said. “This heartbreaking case has haunted the Mitzelfeld and Kelly families for the past five years and with the final chapter now written, I wish them strength as they continue their lives without the love, support and friendship Frances provided. It is my sincerest hope that perhaps with today’s sentencing, Frances’ surviving family and friends will find some measure of closure and keep her memory alive in their hearts for a long time to come.”
Elmhurst Police Department is again a top 10 department in DUI arrests
The Alliance Against Intoxicated Motorists (AAIM) recently conducted its annual police survey and published the 2023 top departments for DUI enforcement. The Elmhurst Police Department was ranked No. 9 in the State of Illinois for DUI enforcement.
In 2023, the Elmhurst Police Department made 215 DUI arrests. According to the AAIM survey, Aurora was ranked No. 1 in 2023 DUI arrests with 366.
Chicago is reportedly in its own category due to its population size and is not included in the survey.
Elgin ranked second in the AAIM 2023 survey with 282 DUI arrests. Bloomington (276) ranked third, while Rockford and Decatur tied for fourth with 271 DUI arrests each.
The Lombard Police Department made 224
DUI arrests in 2023 to rank sixth on the AAIM survey, Waukegan (218) placed seventh, followed by Edwardsville (217), Elmhurst (215) and West Chicago (205).
In 2022, the Elmhurst Police Department placed seventh in the AAIM survey for DUI arrests in the state. The department made 224 DUI arrests in 2022. The Aurora Police Department claimed the top spot in the AAIM’s 2022 survey with 339 DUI arrests.
“Impaired drivers are a major cause of serious injury and fatal traffic crashes,” noted a statement from the Elmhurst Police Department. “Traffic safety, including the enforcement of DUI offenses, is a priority for our officers to prevent tragic collisions. Remember to always designate a sober driver or choose not to drive!”
Man gets 26 years for robbing two phone stores at gunpoint
DuPage County State’s Attorney Robert Berlin has announced that a former Schaumburg man has been sentenced to 26 years in the Illinois Department of Corrections (IDOC) for robbing at gunpoint a Wheaton Sprint store in 2019 and a Hinsdale Verizon Wireless store in 2022.
The state had asked for a sentence of 60 years in the IDOC.
Stephon Little, 31, who has since changed his name to Isa Al Ahad, appeared at his sentencing hearing in front of Judge Joseph Bugos, who handed down a 21-year sentence on the Wheaton robbery
Two men charged with hate crime for allegedly spray painting
‘Free Gaza’ over Israeli flag at Bloomingdale grocery store
DuPage County State’s Attorney Robert Berlin and Director of Public Safety Frank Giammarese have announced that two men have been charged with hate crimes for allegedly spray painting “Free Gaza” on an Israeli flag at the Bloomingdale Woodman’s grocery store last month.
Tabshir Rizvi, 23, of Bloomingdale, and Mohammed Faroun, 22, of Hoffman Estates, have each been charged with two counts of hate crime, a Class 4 felony as well as misdemeanor charges of criminal damage to property and disorderly conduct.
It is alleged that on June 24 at approximately 11:25 p.m., two men, later identified as the defendants, entered the Woodman’s Food Market located at 1 Stratford Drive. It is alleged that the men selected a can of red spray paint and then walked to the international food aisle, climbed the shelving unit under the Israeli flag and spray painted “FREE GAZA” on the Israeli flag.
It is alleged that the men then left the store. Following an investigation into the matter, Bloomindale police identified Rizvi and Faroun as suspects in the case. Faroun turned himself in to authorities on July 16, while Rizvi turned himself in July 7. Both men were released on personal recognizance.
“I find the charges against these two men extremely disturbing,” Berlin said. “Hate crimes, such as alleged in this case, not only affect the intended target, but can also have a devastating effect on entire communities. As I have said before, DuPage County prides itself on be-
and a 26-year sentence on the Hinsdale robbery.
The sentences will be served concurrently.
On Nov. 27, 2019, Little appeared in bond court charged with robbing a Wheaton Sprint store of $40,000 worth of merchandise in late 2019. Bond was set in this case at $375,000 with 10 percent to apply. On Dec. 16, 2019, Little posted $37,500, the necessary 10 percent and was released from custody.
On June 22, 2022, Little again appeared in bond court where he was ordered to be held without bond following allegations that on June 16, 2022, while out on bond and on electronic monitoring, he robbed at gunpoint a Hinsdale Verizon store. He has remained in custody since that time at the DuPage County Jail.
On Feb. 28, Little entered a plea of guilty to two counts of armed
robbery with a firearm, a Class X Felony. Because the crimes were committed with a gun, Little faced an automatic 15-year enhancement resulting in a sentencing range of between 21 to 90 years in the IDOC. The state had requested a sentence of 60 years. On Feb. 13, Little’s co-defendant in the Wheaton case, Denzel Furance, 25, formerly of Calumet City, was sentenced to 23 years in the IDOT after previously entering a plea of guilty to one count of armed robbery with a firearm.
At approximately 8:08 p.m., Nov. 8, 2019, Wheaton Police officers responded to a call of an armed robbery at the Sprint store located at 212 Danada Square West. Officers began an investigation and learned that at approximately 7:45 p.m. that evening, Little and his co-defendant arrived at the store in a car driven by Little.
Furance then entered the store armed with a semi-automatic gun supplied to him by Little and wearing a ski mask, medical gloves and a hooded sweatshirt. Once inside
the store, Furance ordered two employees at gunpoint to a back storage room where a third employee was located along with products and the store safe.
Furance ordered one of the victims at gunpoint to bind the wrists and ankles of the other two employees with duct tape.
Furance then bound the wrists and ankles of the third victim with duct tape. He then ordered the employees to open the safe containing electronic devices.
Once the safe was open, Furance placed more than 100 items from the store worth approximately $120,000 into garbage bags he had brought with him. He then covered the mouths and eyes of the three employees with duct tape and exited the store, inadvertently dropping some items on his way out.
Furance returned to the store several minutes later to retrieve the items he had previously dropped and then fled the scene in a vehicle driven by Little. Little was taken into custody on Nov. 24, 2019. After bonding out, on June 16, 2022,
Little, armed with a pistol, entered the Verizon Wireless store located at 34 E. First St. in Hinsdale wearing a black ski mask, gloves and a hooded sweatshirt. Once inside the store, Little ordered the clerk at gunpoint to fill a bag with approximately 60 products including iPhones, iPads and watches.
Little then fled the store with the merchandise. He was taken into custody the same day in Ford Heights without incident. Little is currently serving a 15-year sentence for three armed robberies of cell phone stores in Cook County that he committed after posting bond in his DuPage County case.
“The fact that Mr. Little committed four additional armed robberies while out on bond is outrageous,” Berlin said. “His complete and utter disregard for the rule of law and terrorizing those who were just trying to make a living has finally caught up with him. Violent gun crimes have no place in society and my office will continue to prosecute anyone who commits this type of brazen criminal conduct.”
Stephon Little
Tabshir Rizvi Mohammed Faroun
Viewpoint
Slices of life
Picture perfect
When my kids were babies, I took lots of photos—always hoping to get the one perfect shot. This was during the prehistoric, pre-digital age, when cameras required film and film required developing. You couldn’t take a million pictures and preview them on your screen. You had to send them away and pay to have them printed. One by one by one.
Back then, I couldn’t tell a megapixel from a winning lottery ticket, but I knew I’d be able to recognize the perfect shot when I saw it. Trouble was, after hundreds of developed photos, I still hadn’t seen it.
I burned through scores of 35 mm rolls, peering through the lens and giving thanks for the auto-flash feature. I paid attention to lighting and background. I even went through a black and white phase in the late 1990s and considered myself artistic for a month or two.
My babies had trouble cooperating with my photolistic tendencies. They squirmed and blinked and drooled and did the things normal kids do when their mom wants them to sit still and smile. My photos wound up offcenter. We were haunted by red eye. I brought the kids to professional photographers and the results were the same. They looked in the wrong direction. They fussed when we tried to get them to lie on their tummies with their chubby fists tucked under their equally chubby chins. Despite my acrobatic contortions to amuse, they refused to smile. After half an hour I was sweating and exhausted. Having your baby’s photo taken is a workout.
We always left the studio with a few okay pictures, but not the perfect one. I gave thanks when nap time arrived. I was tired.
I continued to try (and try and try) hoping to get the perfect picture to include with our annual Christmas card. Just once. I didn’t think it was too much to ask.
Instead, I got photos of my kids scowling and picking their noses. There’s one of the three boys on Halloween where one son insisted on doing his silly face. There’s the two oldest, on the front porch, where big sister is practically smothering her little brother so all but the top of his head is covered.
One son, who was the happiest of babies, cried wholeheartedly every time we tried to take a group shot with the cousins. We’ve got a whole series of him bawling.
Another son used to smile so big
By JILL PERTLER Columnist
that his eyes shut. That went on for a couple of years. My daughter was a somber baby who hardly ever cracked a grin in front of the camera. At least she wasn’t crying. Somewhere right around baby number four I graduated to a digital camera with the ability to view thousands of pictures without ever having to print any. I figured my shot at the perfect shot increased to even odds.
In the dozen years since, I’ve taken many photos and have gotten better with practice. I don’t have problems with red eye anymore and I learned tricks to increase the odds that everyone is looking toward the camera. I’ve even taken some pretty good pictures using my phone. Over time, I became less zealous, but I still pursued the one perfect shot—which I never got. Yesterday, I came upon a pile of old, forgotten photos in the basement and leafed through them. My son, now 19, sat as a baby in his older cousin’s lap. He was wailing. Another shot in black and white showed a baby girl, lying in serious contemplation on her daddy’s chest.
There was one of the kids splashing in a mud puddle, all dirty and wet. Another of the boys carrying dandelions they’d picked for me; the oldest is giving the youngest a piggyback. Their faces are obscured, but their skin is tan with a warm summer glow and the dandelions are held carefully in tight little fists.
At the time the photos were taken, I saw my daughter and sons doing what they normally did, looking simply like themselves. I was oblivious to their depth and meaning. Now, all these years later, it’s right there in front of me.
During the last two decades, I took thousands of photos, always hoping for the perfect shot I never quite managed to get. Now I look back at the photos and realize it’s true. I never got the one perfect picture. To the contrary, I got them all.
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.
Put the brakes on vehicle theft
July is National Vehicle Theft Prevention Month
By David J. Glawe PRESIDENT AND CEO, NATIONAL INSURANCE CRIME BUREAU
Now that we’ve entered the summer months, temperatures are not the only thing on the rise.
Vehicle thefts historically surge during summer months and peak during the month of July. Last year, more than one million vehicles were reported stolen, which accounted for an increase of about one percent nationwide compared to 2022, with theft rates rising steadily since 2019. Illinois was fifth in the nation for vehicle thefts with 41,528 vehicles stolen in 2023.
Vehicle theft is a persistent threat to public safety and economic wellbeing, with thousands of vehicles stolen each day across the United States. While it is often considered a standalone crime, vehicle theft has far-reaching implications that extend beyond just property loss. The ripple effects of this crime directly contribute to other illegal activities in addition to the financial burdens placed on individuals and insurance companies. Stolen vehicles are often used for drug trafficking, robbery or even acts of terrorism. Thieves may employ stolen cars as getaway vehicles for burglaries, robberies, or other heists, allowing them to quickly evade law enforcement and escape the scene of the crime. The speed and mobility offered by stolen vehicles make them valuable assets for criminals seeking to maximize their efficiency and minimize the risk of apprehension. Stolen vehicles frequently play a role in more organized criminal operations such as drug trafficking and human smuggling.
Criminal organizations rely on stolen cars to transport contraband and illicit goods across borders or between distribution points, taking advantage of their inconspicuous appearance and ability to blend in with legitimate traffic. In addition to their utility in property crimes and organized criminal activities, stolen vehicles are often used to facilitate violent offenses.
Carjackings, for example, involve the theft of a vehicle through force or intimidation and can result in serious injury or even death to the vehicle’s occupants. Stolen cars may also be used as weapons in ramming attacks or as tools for transporting weapons and explosives in the planning and execution of terrorist acts.
Addressing this issue requires a multifaceted approach that encompasses prevention, enforcement, and community engagement. To combat this nationwide epidemic, the National Insurance Crime Bureau (NICB), the nation’s leading notfor-profit organization dedicated to identifying, investigating, preventing, and deterring insurance fraud and crime, and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration have joined forces as part of National Vehicle Theft Prevention Month to raise awareness, promote education, and encourage collaboration between law enforcement and vehicle owners.
A combination of common sense, technology, and proactive measures can help deter would-be thieves.
• Lock your vehicle: Always lock your car, even if you’re just leaving it for a short period. This includes closing all windows and sunroofs.
• Park in safe areas: Choose well-
lit, populated areas to park your vehicle, especially at night. Parking in a garage or a secure parking lot with surveillance cameras can deter thieves.
• Install an alarm system: An audible alarm can scare off potential thieves and alert nearby people if someone tries to break into your vehicle.
• Use anti-theft devices: Consider installing additional security measures, such as steering wheel locks, wheel clamps, or a kill switch that disables the ignition system.
• Hide valuables: Don’t leave
See THEFT, Page 13
I am writing to voice my (and others’) disappointment in your “funny” regarding this year’s disaster stories on the Viewpoint page of July 11. The real and not funny story that you need to be explaining to your readers is Project 2025. This disaster looming will affect most of your readers and our entire country for generations. As most of your readers are ignorant of Project 2025, educating the public with real facts should be at the top of your agenda. As the heading of your paper states, you are the Independent. Why be one-sided with your agenda? Case in point, Elmhurst has over 45,700 residents. Your July 18 front page blasts that “Around 75 people turn out for Trump prayer vigil.” That’s less than most kids’ soccer games and the fact is over 45,625 stayed home.
Respectfully, George Berger
Vegan Chili ........................ Cup $4 Bowl $7
3 Layer Vegan/Guten Free Cake ...........$7 (Lime and Mango flavored cake with Date and Almond Crust)
Real estate/Business
Elmhurst Veterans Memorial Honor Roll to add
Teresi entered the
July 25, 2024
the name of late World War II veteran
1942, attaining the rank of Private First Class, and was discharged on
Dec. 31, 1945. He served as a Rifleman with the 88th Division and received the Combat Infantry Badge, American Campaign Medal, European-African-Middle Eastern Ribbon with two
Bronze Battle Stars, World War II Victory Medal, one Service Stripe, three Overseas Bars, and the Good Conduct Medal. To honor a deceased veteran call 630-530-3010.
Elmhurst Edward Jones branch office supports local school supply drive
Donations of supplies will be accepted at the office at 112A S. York Street between July 29 and Aug. 9
Matthew Miceli, an Edward Jones financial advisor in Elmhurst, is supporting Elmhurst school districts by serving as a drop-off location for a school supplies drive.
Items needed for the school supply drive include: writing utensils, folders, art supplies, cleaning supplies/Kleenex, and backpacks.
Local residents and businesses may help others in the community by bringing in items to the Edward Jones branch office at 112A S. York Street during regular business hours from July 29 to Aug. 9.
“We are committed to supporting not only our clients but the entire community,” Miceli said. “This school supply drive is one way we can help make a difference. If people would like to donate school supplies, and our office is convenient for them, we’re happy to serve as a drop-off location. These donations can add value as one more student will be provided with the appropriate tools to begin or continue learning and developing.”
Please note that monetary donations cannot be accepted.
Edward Jones is a leading financial services firm in the U.S. and through its affiliate in Canada. The firm’s more than 19,000 financial advisors serve more than 8 million clients with a total of $2 trillion in client assets under care at the end of December 2023. Edward Jones’ purpose is to partner for positive impact to improve the lives of its clients and colleagues, and together, better our communities and society. Through the dedication of the firm’s approximately 54,000 associates and our branch presence in 68 percent of U.S. counties and most Canadian provinces and territories, the firm is committed to helping more people achieve financially what is most important to them. The Edward Jones website is at edwardjones.com, and its recruiting website is careers. edwardjones.com. Member SIPC. Contributing to a cause and participating in or volunteering for a charity or charitable event is a personal decision and completely voluntary. Edward Jones and its associates cannot accept monetary donations, including gift cards.
Elmhurst Public Library programs
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.
No registration required.
Saturday, July 27
10 a.m.-noon
Canasta: Open play
Join us for a friendly game of Canasta every week. Prior experience is required.
Live in-person. No registration required.
Monday, July 29
9:30-11 a.m.
iPhone iOS
Learn the latest features of iOS and get helpful information about your iPhone.
Live in-person. Registration with an Elmhurst Public Library card required.
Tuesday, July 30 7-8 p.m.
Bullet Journaling for Mindfulness
Learn the basics to get organized, increase mindfulness, and focus on creating good habits.
Live in-person. Registration with an Elmhurst Public Library card required.
Thursday, Aug. 1 2:30-3:30 p.m.
Senior Living Options
Explore what assisted living and memory care communities offer and why it might be the best idea for your future safety.
Live in-person and virtually on Zoom. Registration required.
Thursday, Aug. 1 7-8 p.m.
Ukulele Circle
It takes less than a minute to learn a few chords on the ukulele. Jam along or listen to music ranging from folk to rock. A limited number of ukuleles are available to borrow.
Live in-person. Registration required.
Friday, Aug. 2
2-4 p.m.
Friday Features:
“The Boys in the Boat” Enjoy an afternoon at the movies. Find each week’s featured film at elmlib.org/Friday. No registration required.
Samuel S. Teresi, deceased, a World War II U.S. Army veteran, will be honored by having his name placed in the
Roll of Remembrance at the Veterans Memorial in Elmhurst’s Wilder Park, 175 S. Prospect Ave.
service on Dec. 26,
DuPAGE DESTINATIONS
& Entertainment Guide to the Western Suburbs
Can’t-miss
events in and around DuPage County
Editor’s note: If you have information on an event in DuPage County taking place that you would like us to consider listing here, please email that information to: news1@rvpublishing.com
Ongoing
Train Saturdays
DuPage County Historical Museum
Wheaton
The DuPage Society of Model Engineers operates the model railroad at the museum, 102 E. Wesley St., on the third and fifth Saturday of the month. The layout covers more than 2,000 feet of track and highlights some of DuPage County’s landmarks in a landscape full of surprises. Your family will love watching the trains run. See if you can spot Superman and the Batmobile. For more information, visit: https://dupagemuseum.org/calendar/category/ train-saturdays.
North Suburban Carvers meetings
The North Suburban Carvers meet on the first and third Mondays of each month at the Wood Dale Public Library from 6:30-8:30 p.m. Anyone interested in carving, power carving, wood burning or special finishing techniques is welcome. North Suburban Carvers is a non-profit organization that promotes carving in the Chicago area. For more information, visit: northsurburbancarvers.com.org/calendar.aspx.
Now through Aug. 13
Summer Concert Series
Downers Grove
Recurring weekly, the free concerts are held Tuesday evenings at Fishel Park, 1036 Curtiss St., and will feature rock, country, blues, and oldies. Doors open and food and beverage sales begin at 6 p.m. The music takes place between 7 and 8:30 p.m. Bring your lawn chairs or blankets.
Now through Aug. 14
Music in the Park
Bensenville
From 7:30 to 9:30 p.m. Wednesdays in downtown Bensenville, Bensenville restaurants will sell dinner and dessert items so families can enjoy a meal prior to each concert. The classic car cruise nights will start at 6:00 each night. Here are the remainder of the bands that will be performing: July 31—Anthem’s Grand Illusion (The Styx Concert); Aug. 7—Fuze Band (pop hits with a Latin groove); Aug. 14—Dancing Queen (a salute to Abba).
For more information, visit: www.bensenville. il.us/176/Music-in-thePark.
Now through Aug. 28
Movies on the Lawn Oak Brook
Starting at 7 p.m. every Wednesday at Oakbrook Center, 100 Oakbrook Center, join us for a summer of outdoor cinema from timeless classics to family favorites to modern blockbusters. The movies are free. For more information, visit: www.oakbrookcenter.com/en/ events/movies-on-the-lawn.
Now through Aug. 29
Rock ‘N Wheels
Addison
From 6 to 10 p.m. Thursdays at Village Green, 1 Friendship Plaza, presented by the Village of Addison, two popular bands are featured. The Addison Historical Museum an Open House (6 to 8 p.m.) features a Craft & Vintage Fair. Classic car cruise night parking across Lake Street, at Green Meadow Shopping Center. For more information, visit: www. ithappensinaddison.com/events.
Summer Concert Series
Bolingbrook
From 7 to 9 p.m. Thursdays at The Promenade, 631 E. Boughton Road, Bring your chair and appetite! Each week, a Promenade restaurant will offer delicious food and drinks at the concert, which is free. The concert location within The Promenade will vary based on which restaurant is serving that day. For more information, visit: www.shoppingpromenade. com/event/Sunset-concert-series/2145583530.
Now through Aug. 31
Cicadas on Parade
Glen Ellyn
Recurring daily throughout downtown Glen Ellyn through Aug.31, embrace the summer of the cicadas and visit downtown Glen Ellyn to see 25 hand-painted cicada art sculptures. These 18-inch cicada sculptures are painted via local artist and storefront owners which will be placed in flowerpots, trees and windows throughout the downtown. For more information, visit: https://downtownglenellyn.com/cicadas-on-parade.
Now through Sept. 17
Farmer’s Market
Naperville
From 3 to 7 p.m. Tuesdays at Naper Settlement Outdoor History Museum, 523 S. Webster St., The Naper Settlement Farmers Market offers an assortment of goods from mission-based, fair-trade, or local vendors, from coffee to candles, plus fresh produce, pottery, honey, and more on the picturesque grounds of Naper Settlement. For more information, visit: https://napersettlement.org/FarmersMarke.t
Now through Oct. 1
Farmer’s Market
Lombard
From 3 to 7 p.m. Tuesdays in downtown Lombard, 20 E. St. Charles Road, join us
Villa Park man charged with murdering his girlfriend
DuPage County State’s Attorney Robert Berlin and Villa Park Chief of Police Michael Rivas announced on Friday that Judge Joshua Dieden had granted the state’s motion to deny pre-trial release for a Villa Park man charged with the murder of his girlfriend, 24-year-old Jessica Reyes of Villa Park, following a domestic altercation at his apartment.
Anthony Jimenez, 26, of the 1600 block of South Michigan Avenue, appeared in First Appearance Court on Friday, July 19, and was charged with two counts of first-degree murder.
Reyes graduated from Willowbrook High School in 2018. According to a GoFundMe fundraiser organized to pay for her funeral expenses, Reyes served in the military for six years. As of Sunday, July 21, that fundraiser had raised more than $23,000.
On Wednesday, July 17, at approximately 10:50 a.m., Villa Park
• Events
police officers responded to a call of a domestic disturbance at an apartment located in the 1600 block of South Michigan Avenue, just south of Roosevelt Road. During the call, a male, later identified as Jimenez, allegedly informed authorities that he had stabbed his girlfriend.
Upon their arrival, officers were met at the door by Jimenez, who appeared to have blood on his hands and chest. Jimenez was handcuffed and taken into custody at that time.
While searching the apartment, officers located Jessica Reyes in a back bedroom, bleeding on the floor.
Officers immediately administered aid to Reyes until paramedics arrived and transported her to a local hospital. She was pronounced deceased at the hospital at approximately 11:26 a.m.
Following an investigation into the murder, it is alleged that Jimenez and Reyes were at the apartment together and got into a verbal alter-
(Continued from page 12)
during the summer for Lombard Farmers Market. Get your farm fresh products. For more information, look up Lombard Farmers Market on Facebook.
Now through Oct. 30 Farmer’s Market
Elmhurst
Recurring weekly on Wednesday from 7 a.m. to 1 p.m., the Elmhurst Farmers Market is one of Elmhurst’s great local markets and a family friendly must do event, popular with locals and visitors alike. Enjoy boutique style shopping every week in the York & Vallette Business District. For more information, visit: https:// elmhurstfarmersmarket.com.
Thursday, July 24Sunday, July 28
2024 DuPage County Fair
Wheaton
The DuPage County Fair, held at the DuPage Events Center and Fairgrounds located at 2015 Manchester Road, is one of Wheaton’s highlight-
• Hate crime
(Continued from page 7)
ing an extremely welcoming community to all and we will not tolerate any type of behavior based on hatred or prejudice. I thank management at Woodman’s Food Market for bringing this matter to the attention of law enforcement and I commend the Bloomingdale Police Department for their quick identification of the defendants.”
“There is no place for hatred in our community,” Giammarese said. “The alleged offenders took it upon themselves to interject their personal beliefs and impact the citizens of our great community. I agree that we have a welcoming community and want all people to live in a peaceful society, without alleged offenders spewing hatred and degrading an Israeli flag.”
The next court appearance for both men is scheduled for Aug. 13, for arraignment in front of Judge Daniel Guerin.
cation at approximately 8 a.m. It is alleged that after a short time, Reyes left the apartment, climbing down the third floor balcony to the parking lot as Jimenez would not let her leave the apartment and was blocking the door. It is alleged that Jimenez went to the parking lot and spoke with Reyes and after the argument had calmed down, Reyes and Jimenez went back to the apartment together. It is further alleged that the argument ensued and that as Reyes began collecting her belongings, Jimenez pulled a knife from his pocket and stabbed Reyes in the side of her head. It is further alleged that as Reyes fought back, Jimenez continued to stab her a total of 12 times about her neck, face, arms, chest and hands. It is alleged that Jimenez only stopped stabbing Reyes when his mother entered the room.
“First and foremost, I offer my sincerest condolences to Jessica’s surviving family and friends on their
loss and wish them strength as they continue their lives without the love and support she once provided,” Berlin said. “The senseless and extremely violent end to a promising young woman’s life, as alleged in this case, will not be tolerated in DuPage County and will be met with the full force of the law. While the tragic reality is Jessica’s young life has been reduced to a statistic of domestic violence due to Mr. Jimenez’s alleged actions, my office intends to seek a full measure of justice in Jessica’s name. I commend the Villa Park Police Department for their professionalism on this very disturbing case. I thank the DuPage County Sheriff’s Office and DuPage County MERIT [Metropolitan Emergency Response and Investigations Team] for their assistance. I also thank Assistant State’s Attorneys Helen Kapas and Grace Barsanti for their efforts in securing charges against Mr. Jimenez.
ed community events. We love seeing all community members come together to enjoy quality time with their neighbors, friends, and family.
Admission: Adults ages 13 and up: $12; Seniors ages 62 and up: $8; Children ages 6-12: $8; Children 5 and under: Free; Active military personnel with ID: Free. For more information, visit: https://dupagecountyfair.org/dupage-county-fair.
Thursday, July 24Tuesday, July 30
Christmas in July
Wheaton
The countdown to Christmas is on … get into the holiday spirit early with Downtown Wheaton’s Christmas in July. Visit downtown Wheaton businesses for Christmas-themed sidewalk sales, limited-time discounts, holiday-inspired food and drink, holiday music and décor, and more. For more information, visit: www.downtownwheaton.com/christmas-in-july.
Friday, Aug. 2-Sunday, Aug. 4
Festa Italiana
Naperville
From 5 to 9 p.m. at Naper Settlement, Festa Italiana is back this
• Theft
summer. Channel your inner Italian and celebrate the music, food, culture, and spirit of Italy. This year, we will be offering pasta-making classes, grape stomping, and wine-making opportunities all weekend long. Partake in our meatball eating contest, play some bocce ball, or sip on your favorite vino and check out our art show. Enjoy live music each night of Festa Italiana 2024 under the stars, browse our premium vendors and make memories with the whole family in our carnival kid’s area! Benefits the Amici Club. Admission: $10. For more information, visit: www.facebook.com/ events/2768763089958547.
Friday, Aug. 2Saturday, Aug. 3
Summer Daze
Warrenville
From 5 to 11 p.m. each day at the Warrenville City Hall Complex, 28W701 Stafford Place, enjoy live music, beer and wine, delicious food, business booths, and fun for the entire family. Presented by the Warrenville Park District. Admission: free. For more information, visit: www. warrenvilleparks.org/event/summer-daze-2.
(Continued from page 8)
valuable items visible in your car, as they can attract thieves. If you must leave items in your vehicle, store them in the trunk or out of sight.
• Don’t leave spare keys inside: Avoid leaving spare keys inside your car, as thieves can easily find them and steal your vehicle.
• Use a GPS tracker: Consider installing a GPS tracking device to help locate your vehicle if it’s stolen, increasing the chances of recovery.
• Be vigilant: Pay attention to your surroundings and report any suspicious activity to the authorities. Thieves often scout potential targets, so being vigilant can deter them.
• Secure your license plates: Use security screws or bolts to secure your license plates, as thieves may steal them to avoid detection.
• Use common sense: Finally, trust your instincts. If something feels off or unsafe, it’s better to be cautious and find another parking spot or location. Prevention starts with awareness. By taking proactive measures and following these tips, vehicle owners can fight back and avoid becoming just another statistic.
David J. Glawe is the president and CEO of the National Insurance Crime Bureau (NICB), the nation’s leading not-for-profit organization exclusively dedicated to combating and preventing insurance crime. NICB membership includes more than 1,200 property-casualty insurance companies, vehicle rental companies, auto auctions, vehicle finance companies and self-insured organizations.
“Domestic violence has no place in our society,” Rivas said. “The alleged actions of the accused are horrific. When the facts of the case are revealed, there is no doubt the ac-
cused should face the full force of our justice system. The victim, Jessica Reyes, was only 24 years old and had her life senselessly taken from her. Jessica deserves to have her name mentioned. We pray for her and her family. This crime should serve for all as a reminder to seek help if you are a victim of domestic violence. If you find yourself to be the aggressor in a domestic violence situation, we plead with you to please seek help as well. I commend the Villa Park police officers and investigators for their sensitivity, professionalism and thoroughness in handling a very tough call to duty. We would also like to thank the tremendous support we received from MERIT as well as the DuPage County Sheriff’s Office. Just as important, we would also like to thank DuPage County State’s Attorney Robert Berlin and Assistant State’s Attorneys Helen Kapas and Grace Barsanti for their invaluable assistance with this case.”
Jimenez’s next court appearance is scheduled for Aug. 12, for arraignment in front of Judge Mia McPherson.
Northern Illinois Food Bank’s Executive Leadership team attends 12th annual “A Taste That Matters” fundraiser for hunger relief. Pictured from left are: Julie Yurko, president and CEO; Maeven Sipes, chief philanthropy officer; LaDora Robinson-Locke, chief people officer; Chris White, chief operations officer; Melissa Kochan, executive administrative assistant; Jennifer Lamplough, chief impact officer; and Ron Hausner, chief financial officer. Courtesy of Northern Illinois Food Bank.
Northern Illinois Food Bank raises
$446,500
Northern Illinois Food Bank is thrilled to announce the 12th annual
“A Taste That Matters” event, presented by Jewel-Osco, raised more than $446,500 which translates into over $3.5 million in essential resources for neighbors facing hunger.
“A Taste That Matters” is one of the food bank’s flagship fundraisers, held this year at Drury Lane Theatre and Events in Oakbrook Terrace. More than 600 attendees enjoyed an extensive silent auction, open bar, and food tastings from dozens of local chefs and vendors.
The evening featured remarks from Julie Yurko, president and CEO of Northern Illinois Food Bank; Mike Withers, president of Jewel-Osco; and Tom Hong, retail relations specialist at Northern Illinois Food Bank.
for hunger relief
“Due to inflation and the rising cost of food, we are seeing more neighbors reaching out for help. We are doing everything possible to meet the demand but cannot do it alone. We are grateful for the generous support of our event sponsors, tasting partners, and guests. Together we can make a difference in the lives of our neighbors so they can thrive,” said Maeven Sipes, chief philanthropy officer at Northern Illinois Food Bank. Event sponsorships included Presenting Sponsor Jewel-Osco, Hunger Champion Sponsors Chilay Corp., PepsiCo, and Scooter Bay Sales, and Hunger Leader Sponsor Mondelez International.
View event photos at https://flic. kr/s/aHBqjBsLRx. For more information about how to get involved, visit SolveHungerToday.org.
SUBMITTED PHOTO Elmhurst Independent
Elmhurst heroes: Teamwork saves stranded raccoon
By Tessa Martyn ELMHURST INDEPENDENT
A young raccoon’s harrowing ordeal turned into a heartwarming story of teamwork in Elmhurst last week.
After severe storms slammed the Chicagoland area on the night of Monday, July 15, a displaced juve-
nile raccoon found itself stranded 12 to 15 feet atop a telephone pole at the corner of York and Vallette streets.
On the morning of Tuesday, July 16, Jill Borkovec, a hairstylist at Head Designer Salon, arrived at work to discover the scared animal clinging to a ComEd box.
“I knew immediately it needed to be rescued,” Borkovec said.
Without hesitation, Borkovec sprang into action, calling for assistance. Her call resonated throughout the community, summoning not only concerted bystanders and dedicated wildlife rehabilitators, but also the
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
heroes of the Elmhurst Fire Department.
“I could see the raccoon move his little foot, which was hanging on tightly to the box,” Borkovec said, describing the frightened animal.
The firefighters’ swift response was nothing short of remarkable. Arriving with a ladder, they displayed exceptional skill and unwavering courage in safely retrieving the terrified raccoon. Every step they took exuded a clear commitment to the safety of the vulnerable animal.
The raccoon, shaken but unharmed, was transported to Oaken Acres Wildlife Center in Sycamore for further evaluation and care.
This successful rescue would not have been possible without the combined efforts of everyone involved.
“I felt a huge sense of relief when help arrived,” Borkovec said. “I’m so thankful he was saved.”
According to a volunteer at Oaken Acres, “the raccoon is recovering well but remains scared.”
The wildlife center staff is working to get the animal to eat on its own. The center’s dedication to rehabilitation ensures this lucky raccoon gets a second chance at a healthy life.
was stranded 12 to 15 feet above the ground after the severe storms of Monday night, July 15. The raccoon was transported to the Oaken Acres Wildlife Center in Sycamore.
Adult Bible Study after Wednesday Service
Rev. David Ernest “Satan Has Asked to Sift All of You” Jerusalem Lutheran, Morton Grove Matthew 27:15-26
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
This story serves as a beacon of hope, highlighting the immense compassion and lightning-fast action displayed by Elmhurst residents and emergency personnel. They are a testament to the true meaning of kindness to everyone, even the smallest of creatures. Thanks to remarkable teamwork, a little critter in need received a second chance.
Rev. Jonathan Bergemann “I Will Keep the Passover” Good Shepherd, Downers Grove Matthew 26:18
Fifth Lenten Service March 30, 2022
Rev. Tom Nicholson “They Bound Him” Resurrection, Aurora John 18:12
Sixth Lenten Service April 6, 2022
Rev. Phil Schupmann “The Semblance of Legality” Resurrection, Aurora Luke 22:66
Maundy Thursday Communion 7 p.m., April 14 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
5 p.m.
8:30 and 11 a.m.
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:
Villa Park Fire Department responds to fire at local business
On Tuesday, July 16, at approximately 7:15 a.m., the Villa Park Fire Department responded to a smoke investigation at A.K. Mulch & Firewood, located at 631 E. Wildwood Ave.
Villa Park Engine 81 was the first unit on the scene and encountered a two-story commercial building with heavy smoke conditions. The officer of Engine 81 upgraded the alarm to a structure fire response, bringing in two additional engine companies, two aerial trucks, three medic units, one squad, and three additional fire chiefs.
Villa Park fire companies deployed a hose line to a second-floor office area and initiated an aggressive interior fire attack, while mutual-aid crews assisted in searching and
ventilating the building. The fire was brought under control and contained to the second-floor office area in the northeast corner of the building. Occupants in the building at the time of the fire were able to self-evacuate before firefighters arrived.
Villa Park was assisted by the Lombard, Elmhurst and Oak Brook fire departments, as well as the Oakbrook Terrace and York Center fire protection districts and the Villa Park Police Department.
The Villa Park Fire Department’s Fire Investigation Unit (FIU), accompanied by the DuPage County Fire Investigation Task Force, conducted the origin and cause investigation.
The cause of the fire is undetermined pending further investigation.
Police and fire departments to hold
Public Safety Night Out on Aug. 8
Free family event runs from 6 to 8 p.m. at Berens Park
The Elmhurst Police Department and the Elmhurst Fire Department invite the community to attend the Public Safety Night Out event on Thursday, Aug. 8. The free event will take place from 6 to 8 p.m. at Berens Park, 493 N. Oaklawn Ave.
Public Safety Night Out is a free summer family event that gives residents an opportunity to meet police officers and firefighters, play games
and take part in activities, enjoy music and giveaways, and see police and fire vehicles and equipment.
The event will feature demonstrations of squad cars, police K9s, drones, and evidence processing. Attendees will also be able to see fire hoses, ladders and rescue equipment.
There will also be a fire station bounce house for kids.
The Elmhurst Fire Department retrieved a raccoon from a telephone pole near York and Vallette streets last week. The raccoon
CHRISTINE KENNISON PHOTOS Elmhurst Independent
IC Catholic Prep graduate
Sport S
Leslie headed to Le Moyne
Will play volleyball for Division II school
I feel like I would be so bored without it because it has been such a big part of my life.”
York graduate Sloan selected in second round by Seattle Mariners
By Mike Miazga CORRESPONDENT
Leslie said she has plenty of memories from IC Catholic Prep’s coach Nancy Kerrigan’s program.
Standout fireballer helped Dukes to back-to-back fourth-place state finishes
Recent IC Catholic Prep graduate Bella Leslie wanted to head east for college.
By Mike Miazga CORRESPONDENT
Recent York High School graduate Ryan Sloan’s continued ascension as a baseball player has been rewarded in the highest regard. Sloan, a right-handed pitcher who helped lead York to back-to-back Class 4A state fourthplace finishes, recently was selected in the second round by the Seattle Mariners in the 2024 Major League Baseball Draft. Sloan was selected No. 55 overall by the Mariners and last week signed for $3 million, which is well over the allotted slotted dollar amount for the 55th pick. That $3 million deal equals the value of the No. 29 overall pick, one news outlet reported.
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.
“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.”
The 55th pick in this year’s draft has a $1,641,800 bonus slot value. The current rule for signing bonuses assigns a dollar amount to every pick in the first 10 rounds. This year, the first overall pick is worth 10.57 million and the final pick in the 10th round, 315th overall, is valued at $178,800, still far from poverty wages. The Mariners obviously went well over that slot with Sloan’s $3 million signing.
Leslie plans on studying nursing at Le Moyne. “They have a good nursing program,” she said. “As far as what kind of a nurse I want to be, I’m not quite sure yet.”
Leslie played volleyball and girls soccer at IC Catholic Prep all four years. She was a center-midfielder on the Knights soccer team.
Veteran baseball writer Jim Callis, of MLB Pipeline, had this to say about the Mariners drafting Sloan. “6-5, 220, I’m not saying he’s going to be this guy, but you get some physical comparisons to Gerrit Cole,” he wrote. “He’s put together really well for a high school kid, and he could have three plus-pitches. He’s got feel
Leslie’s volleyball journey started in the fifth grade, the first year she could play the sport at IC Grade School. She’s been play ing club volleyball since seventh grade, most recently with the Chi cago Elite group that practices out of Scores in Willow Springs and Montini High School in Lombard.
to play volleyball in college,” she said. “It gives me something to do.
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.”
“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.”
too. He’s got a 93-96 MPH fastball and hits 99, he can ride it and run it, he can cut it, he can sink it. I think Seattle had to be elated to get this guy in the second round. They got him at pick 55 and honestly, he probably should have gone 30-35 picks higher.”
Major League Baseball website’s Prospect Rankings had Sloan at No. 19 among draft-eligible players and noted that Illinois high school pitchers Owen Murphy (Riverside-Brookfield, 20th overall by the Atlanta Braves) and Noah Schultz (Oswego East, 26th overall by the White Sox) were drafted in the first round in 2022 and Blake Wolters (Mahomet-Seymour) received firstround money in 2023.
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.”
“Sloan has a better combination of stuff and polish than any of them,” the website’s Prospect Rankings noted in its report on the fireballer. “He dominated throughout the summer showcase circuit while getting swings and misses with three different pitches that could grade as plus once he’s fully developed.”
Sloan was named the Illinois Gatorade high school player of the year earlier this year. “Sloan shows the ability to manipulate a 93-96 mile-per-hour fastball that tops out at 99, as he can ride and run it at the top of the zone, cut it in on left-handers or sink it for ground balls,” his Prospects rankings writeup on the MLB website continued. “He has a more advanced changeup than most prepsters, throwing hit-
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.
“ I’m really excited to be able to play volleyball in college. It gives me something to do. I feel like I would be so bored without it because it has been such a big part of my life.”
ters off-balance with a mid-80s cambio (Spanish for changeup) that fades and sinks. His low-80s slider is nearly as good, featuring two-plane depth and some horizontal action as well.”
The website gave Sloan scouting grades of 60 for his fastball, 55 for his slider, 60 for this changeup and 50 for control, for an overall grade of 55. Scouting grades, MLB’s website noted, “have been a staple of of MLB. com’s prospect coverage for years, and they generally match how clubs grade players as well.”
– Bella Leslie
The site noted players are graded on a 20-80 scale: 20-30 is well-below average, 40 is below average, 50 is average, 60 is above average and 7080 is well-above average. When discussing prospects, the most important number is the future overall grade, an all-encompassing number on the 20-80 scale that signifies what each player is projected to ultimately be in the big leagues.
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.”
A future overall grade of 65 or better is for a player who could develop into a future impact Major Leaguer, perhaps an All-Star-caliber standout. As a comparison, Travis Bazzana (Oregon State), this year’s No. 1 overall pick by the Cleveland Guardians, graded out at 65 (hitting), 60 (power), 60 (running), 50 (arm) and a 50 (fielding) for a 65 overall grade. Hagen Smith, a left-handed pitcher out of the University of Arkansas, was picked fifth overall by the White Sox and grades out at 65
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
(fastball), 65 (slider), 50 (splitter) and 50 (control) for an overall grade of 60.
“Sloan has a strong lower half and is built to eat innings,” the Prospect Rankings report concluded. “He uses his size to create extension and a flat approach angle to add deception. He repeats his delivery well and throws his entire arsenal for quality strikes.”
The 6-foot-4, 220-pound Sloan previously was committed to NCAA Division I Wake Forest University. “We are extremely excited for Ryan and what the future will bring him as he enters the next stage of his baseball career,” York baseball coach Dave Kalal said in a press release issued by Elmhurst Community Unit School District 205. “He has worked hard to get himself in the position he is in now. Over the last four high school baseball seasons, Ryan has provided York and the Elmhurst community many memorable moments on the baseball diamond. Ryan had a major impact on our entire baseball program.”
Sloan is the fourth York student-athlete to be selected in the MLB Draft out of high school, joining Kevin Sullivan (catcher, 2006), his father, David Sloan (catcher, 1994), and Paul Suchow (right-handed pitcher, 1965). David Sloan was selected in the 49th round of the 1994 MLB Draft, played baseball at Austin Peay and was on the 1993 York baseball team that won the Class AA state title. Sloan’s mother, Aman-
See SLOAN, Page 16
Recent York High School graduate Ryan Sloan was selected in the second round by the Seattle Mariners in the 2024 Major League Baseball Draft. Sloan, named the 2024 Illinois Gatorade baseball player of the year, was drafted 55th overall. The Mariners signed Sloan for $3 million, well above the slotted dollar amount for the 55th pick in the draft. Sloan helped lead York to back-to-back fourth place finishes in Class 4A. This past season, Sloan went 2-3 with a 0.30 ERA and struck out 90 in only 46 innings.
proudly presents
Elmhurst team wins district 10 title
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
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
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
YORK HIGH SCHOOL PLAYER OF THE WEEK RYAN SLOAN YORK BASEBALL
Elmhurst Youth Baseball’s 12-U Little League baseball team won the District 10 title last week. Elmhurst defeated River Forest 4-3 in the championship game at Keystone Park in River Forest on July 17. The Elmhurst team opened the District 10 event with a loss to Melrose Park. Elmhurst then won its next three games, beating Melrose Park and earning two straight wins over River Forest. Winning the District 10 title propelled Elmhurst to the state tournament, which features 14 district winners from around Illinois. Members of the Elmhurst 12-U team, pictured (left to right) with their championship banner, are: (front row) Liam Northern, AJ Fleming, Tyler Welch, Tyler Langenstrass, Chase Gerald and Roshan Vitha; (back row) Mario Iveljic, Max Padgett, Jake Setlak, Carter Spiering, Tiago Rangel, Xander Escarpita and James Kowalski. Not pictured are Manager Rob Fleming, Coach Chris Spiering and Coach Mario Iveljic.
Sloan, named the 2024 Illinois Gatorade baseball player of the year, was drafted 55th overall by the Seattle Mariners in the recent MLB Draft. The Mariners signed Sloan for $3 million, well above the slotted dollar amount for the 55th pick in the draft. Sloan helped lead York to back-to-back fourth-place finishes in Class 4A. This past season, Sloan went 2-3 with a 0.30 ERA and struck out 90 in only 46 innings.
CHRIS FOX PHOTO Elmhurst Independent
Bucolo fires
baseball game.
ELMHURST DISTRICT 205 PHOTO Elmhurst Independent
IC Catholic Prep girls basketball team takes second in Lisle summer league
By Mike Miazga CORRESPONDENT
The month of June was a productive one for the IC Catholic Prep girls basketball team. Coach Todd Fisher’s squad took second in the Lisle summer league, finishing behind champion Glenbard South, while also making
plenty of progress during the team’s additional contact days in June. “June was good,” Fisher said. “June this year was like June last year. We wanted to get the kids together with our contact days and playing at Lisle. Summer league for us was very good.” Fisher pointed out ICCP graduated
nine seniors from last year’s team that reached a Class 2A sectional title game and tied for the second-most wins in school history with 25, but still returns plenty of veteran firepower in seniors Maura Grogan, Graziella Narcisi, Lizzie Cook and junior Mary Kate Hilgart.
“We have four returners and the big priority this summer was getting the freshmen, sophomore and juniors in the gym and to focus on a few important things, a main one, just like last season, was focusing on defense,” he said. “We got a lot of good out of our time together in June. From Day 1 of
NOTICE TO OUR READERS
basketball to the last day, I really liked the progress. I know it’s coach talk, but each day the kids got better. From the first game at Lisle to the last game there, from the defensive end I liked what I saw. And offensively, I liked what I saw as well. All our levels run the same offense for the most part, so that helped us kind of click from the first day. We wanted to get those four returning girls used to the new faces and it was the same with the younger kids. They needed to get used to playing with returning varsity kids. They gelled and played well together.”
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Fisher noted Narcisi, Grogan and Hilgart had “nice summers offensively,” he said. “They did some good things from a production standpoint. And some of the kids coming up contributed big minutes, which is important. They got better as well.”
ICCP was able to schedule numerous JV summer games, Fisher explained, further enhancing the summer offerings. “The younger kids played great in the JV games,” he said. “And the kids coming up to play on the varsity team, some of them had a quick learning curve. I was proud of what they did.”
Fisher said the number of graduated contributors is not looked at as a detriment internally. “Going into this upcoming season, everybody is saying look at what IC lost,” he said.
“They are not wrong, but when I look at MK (Hilgart), she was honorable-mention all-state and all-conference last year. Maura Grogan played a ton of minutes and Grazi is a two-year varsity player. Maura and Grazi, this will be their third year on the varsity. We have production coming back, and now you look at what we did in the summer and we did very well. We will be young. MK is only a junior. Lizzie, Grazi and Maura are seniors, and the rest of the roster will be younger kids. We bring back kids who played heavy varsity minutes over the last two years. The key is going to be getting the underclass kids, the freshmen, sophomores and juniors, ready to play at the varsity level, but we saw a lot of good this summer. We’re looking forward to the basketball season this year.”
• Sloan
(Continued from page 15)
da, is enshrined in the Austin Peay Athletes Hall of Fame after a notable women’s basketball career.
Sloan posted a sub-1.00 ERA over the last two seasons, while striking out 178 batters during his junior and senior seasons combined. As a junior, Sloan went 5-1 with 97 strikeouts in 53 innings and threw a no-hitter in York’s supersectional win that propelled it to the Class 4A state semifinals.
This past spring, Sloan went 2-3 with a 0.30 ERA and fanned 90 in 46 innings. Last summer, Sloan pitched in the Prep Baseball Inaugural All-American Game at American Family Field in Milwaukee (home of the MLB Brewers), striking out Ethan Holliday during his one inning of work. Holliday was the top overall prospect at the event. Going into the draft, Sloan was ranked as the No. 6 overall high school recruit by PrepBaseballReport.
Community calendar
Pick of the week: Thursday, July 25
Stories from the Home Front 1941-45
At 7 p.m., GreenMan Theatre, the Elmhurst History Museum and the Elmhurst Public Library present “Stories from the Home Front 1941-45.” Delve into the untold history and stories of those who supported the war effort from Elmhurst and beyond. 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, 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.
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
DuPage County wins
Distinguished Budget Award
DuPage County has received a Distinguished Budget Award from the Government Finance Officers Association, the highest form of recognition in government budgeting.
The county’s budget is reviewed annually by the Government Finance Officers Association to assess how well it meets nationally recognized guidelines as a policy document, financial plan, an operations guide, and a communications device. The award covers the Fiscal Year 2024 budget, which started Dec. 1, 2023.
“We are proud to receive this award from the Government Finance Officers Association for the 20th year in a row. I’m pleased this national body recognizes our county for its dedication to fiscal responsibility and budget transparency,” said County Board Chair Deborah Conroy. “I’m grateful to our staff, our Board, and elected officials who keep a sharp eye on the bottom line, balancing our budget while maintaining our commitment to outstanding services for DuPage residents. We are careful stewards of the public’s funds, and it is wonderful to receive this recognition.”
There are more than 1,800 participants in the Budget Awards Program. The most recent budget award recipients, along with their corresponding budget documents, are posted quarterly on GFOA’s website. Award recipients have pioneered efforts to improve the quality of budgeting and provide an excellent example for other governments throughout North
Government Finance Officers Association is a major professional association servicing the needs of more than 20,000 appointed and elected local, state, and provincial-level government officials and other finance practitioners. It provides top quality publications, training programs, services and products designed to enhance the skills and performance of those responsible for government finance policy and management.
LEGAL NOTICE
CERTIFICATE NO. 79446 was filed in the office of the County Clerk of DuPage County on MAY 31, 2024, wherein the business firm of SKYLINE SHINE LOCATED AT 100 N ADDISON AVE UNIT 210, ELMHURST, IL 60126 was registered; that the true or real name or names of the person or persons owning the business, with their respective post office address(es), is/are as follows: NAME OF PERSON(S) LANCE LERMAN, HOME ADDRESS 100 N ADDISON AVE UNIT 210, ELMHURST, IL 60126. IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand and Official Seal at my office in Wheaton, Illinois, this 31ST day of MAY, A.D. 2024.
JEAN KACZMAREK Jean Kaczmarek DuPage County Clerk (OFFICIAL SEAL)
(Published in The Elmhurst Independent July 25, Aug. 1 & 8, 2024) 458687
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. Now through Sunday, Aug. 11, Designing Donkey Hodie – From Make-Believe to Someplace Else is showing. Info: 630-834-0202 or visit elmhurstartmuseum.org.
Residential driveways, patios, walkways. Stamped and colored concrete. Call Greg
Specializing in general maintenance and repair both inside and out.
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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.
Music/ Instrumental
FOR SALE: USED JACKSON GUITAR For more information call 630-822-4534. Lombard area.
Campers and RVs
1994 WINNEBAGO WARRIOR 22’ V8 454 engine, 97,200 miles. Newer tires, new battery, new sub floor and flooring. Rooftop A/C works great. Rust free, runs good and ready for travel! Some updates have been done to the interior, but still needs some minor finishing. Asking $10,500. Located near Rockford. Call 815520-0997.
details on placing an ad in our
NOTICE All real estate advertising in this newspaper is subject to the Fair Housing Act which makes it illegal to advertise any preference, limitation or discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, disability, familiar/ status or national origin, or an intention to make any such preference, limitation or discrimination. Familial status includes children under the age of 18 living with parents or legal custodians, pregnant women and people securing custody of children under 18. This newspaper will not knowingly accept any advertising for real estate which is in violation of the law. Our readers are hereby informed that all dwellings advertised in this newspaper are available on an equal opportunity basis. To complain of discrimination call HUD tollfree at 1-900-669-9777. The toll-free tele phone number for the hearing impaired is 1-800-927-9275. EQUAL HOUSING OPPORTUNITY
Sea, help me and show me, herein you are my mother.
Oh, Holy Mary, Mother of God, Queen of Heaven and Earth! I humbly beseech you from the bottom of my heart to answer me in this necessity. There are none that can withstand your power. Oh, show me herein you are my mother. Oh, Mary conceived without sin, pray for us who have recourse to thee (3x). Holy Mother, I place this cause in your hands (3xs). Sweet Mother, I place this cause in your hands (3x). Holy Spirit, you who solve all problems, light all roads so that I can attain my goal, you who gave me divine gift to forgive and forget all evil against me, and that in all instances in my life you are with me. I want in this short prayer to thank you for all things as you confirm once again that I never want to be separated from you in eternal glory.
Thank you for your mercy towards me and mine.
The person must say this prayer 3 consecutive days, after 3 days the request will be granted.
This prayer must be published after the favor is granted. A.S.
