‘Cue for a Cause takes place Sept. 1
The deadline to register is Aug. 19
Registration for competitors is open for the annual ‘Cue for a Cause barbecue competition. Barbecue enthusiasts of all levels are invited to see how their smoked rib and chicken techniques stack up against other backyard grill masters.
2024 marks the 10th anniversary of what has become a Labor Day weekend staple in Elmhurst. The ‘Cue for a Cause is the major fundraising event for the Elmhurst Walk-In Assistance Network (EWAN).
The date for this year’s event is Sunday, Sept. 1, and will take place in the city lot at York and Vallette streets. In addition to the grill action, there will be live music, food and drink, auctions and raffles, and a fun play place for kids to enjoy.
Typically, around 20 teams compete at the ‘Cue. While there’s an option to prepare just ribs or chicken for the panel of judges, most teams opt to gun for the Grand Championship, which is determined by the combined score for ribs, chicken, and sauce. A prize for “People’s Choice” for sauce is also awarded, as determined by votes from the public tasting the sauces.
This year the ‘Cue will feature an added throw down, a “Beat Jim Lawshe” competition. “Barbeque Jim” is well-known in Elmhurst for his delicious barbecue, and has sold his award winning dishes at the ‘Cue every year. Among his countless accolades, he has five first place wins in the Illinois State Championships and a Grand Championship in the Iowa State BBQ Championship. His brisket has taken second in the Memphis in May World Championship.
Competitors in the Beat Jim Lawshe competition will pay $100 to put
See ‘CUE FOR A CAUSE, Page 7
SUBMITTED
Registration is open for this year’s ‘Cue for a Cause barbecue competition, which will take place on Sunday, Sept. 1, in the Elmhurst city lot at York and Vallette streets. ‘Cue for the Cause is the major fundraising event for the Elmhurst Walk-In Assistance Network (EWAN). The deadline to register for the competition is Aug. 19. In addition to the competitive grilling, the event will feature live music, food and drink, auctions and raffles, and activities for kids. The Smokin’ Tailgators (pictured above with their trophy) were the 2023 ‘Cue champions. The winners of the competition take home the large trophy, along with a $250 cash prize.
PHOTOS Elmhurst Independent
Visitation Church celebrates 70 years
Bishop Ronald Hicks, of the Diocese of Joliet, celebrated Mass at Elmhurst’s Visitation Catholic Church (779 S. York Street) on Saturday, July 27, kicking off Visitation’s 70th anniversary celebration. Hundreds of parishioners attended the Mass, which was concelebrated by current Pastor John Lindsey, Vicar Father Ryan Adorjan, former Visitation Pastor Greg Skowron and Reverend Tom Paul, pastor at Elmhurst’s Immaculate Conception Parish. During the Mass, Bishop Hicks used the chalice that had belonged
to Visitation’s first pastor, Reverend John Podesta. During his homily, Bishop Hicks encouraged parishioners to remember the past, embrace the present and have great hope for the future. Following the Mass, parishioners were treated to a barbecue dinner catered by the new Golden Boy Barbecue. The Knights of Columbus ran the beer tent, while PJ the DJ (parishioner and Visitation School alumnus) was onsite providing music.
KIMBERLY FELTEN
PHOTOS Elmhurst Independent
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City Council revises neighborhood sidewalk policy
By Dee Longfellow FOR THE ELMHURST INDEPENDENT
“The benefits of public sidewalks are many. The most important benefit [is] the safety of our citizens. Sidewalks also improve aesthetics, curb appeal and walkability.”
This is a quote from a report by the Public Works and Buildings (PWB) Committee to the Elmhurst City Council covering its review of Elmhurst’s Sidewalk Installation Policy. The measure passed at a Council meeting on Monday, July 15.
PWB Committee Chair Emily Bastedo (6th Ward) explained the changes in a recent City Council meeting, giving an overview of the previous policy and the proposed recommendations. She thanked the members of her committee—Aldermen Karen Sienko (2nd), Michael Bram (3rd) and Brian Cahill (4th)— for working hard on the project over the course of 11 meetings. She also praised the City staff for its input.
The previous policy required a 50/50 cost share between property owners and the City for installation of sidewalks on full blocks where none currently exist. The policy further required 60 percent or more of the property owners on that block to
sign a petition for the City to consider a sidewalk project.
At that point, the City begins preliminary plans and gathers cost estimates in order to offer property owners an idea of their individualized share of the project. Then a survey is sent to all property owners and, again, at least 60 percent must reply “yes” to the survey. It is noteworthy to add that non-responses were considered “no” votes, and the previous policy has resulted in no successful projects.
Bastedo noted the last successful sidewalk petition passed in 2009.
“Since 2004, petitions have been initiated 41 times and yet, construction was approved only five times,” she said. “The last successful sidewalk petition was on Willow between Gladys and Crestview and it passed in 2009.”
The Committee’s first recommendation was to change the 50/50 cost split to a 75/25, with the City covering 75 percent. As an example, the sidewalk petition for Glade Avenue between 2nd and 3rd streets had a construction cost estimate of $285,000. Under the 50/50 cost split, the amount would be $142,000. Under the 75/25 split, the City would pay $213,750, a difference of
$71,250 to distribute among property owners.
After reviewing the voting procedure, it was determined that the actual “yes” and “no” votes should be counted, and unreturned surveys would not be counted. Further, the number of names on the petition and the number of “yes” votes should be at least 50 percent of the property owners, rather than 60 percent.
The Committee recommended considering alternative financing options on a case-by-case basis for property owners. The final change was to keep with the City’s “Complete Streets” policy, which covers sidewalks for short streets at the end of blocks that dead end, as well as sidewalk gaps.
Following Bastedo’s presentation, Alderman Marti Deuter (1st Ward) offered her comments, saying she was very pleased with the idea of more sidewalks to encourage more walking and biking. She mentioned a “Walk and Rollers” working group that she had been meeting with over the past several months.
“[The group has] updated our bike and pedestrian plan,” she said. “We have included community fun activities and safety improvements in our strategic plan and we’ve taken
a comprehensive approach to neighborhood traffic studies that incorporate walking and biking.”
Deuter said she agreed with, and supported, most of the changes presented in the policy, but she knows there is a set of priority sidewalks currently awaiting funding and she also knows the Public Affairs and Safety Committee is creating a comprehensive sidewalk Master Plan for the entire City. Deuter wanted to see more emphasis placed on priority sidewalks that needed the most improvements to enhance walking and biking.
She fears that the change in cost split would be a distraction from the City working on the highest priority sidewalks, which the City would fund completely.
“I’d prefer to have the City spend its energy and resources on those highest priority sidewalks,” she said.
Other aldermen made comments about the measure before the vote was called. The measure passed 11-0 with three absent.
Editor’s note: The Sidewalk Installation Policy can be viewed on the City’s web site. To view the entire meeting with all comments from the aldermen, visit ElmhurstTV.com.
SUBMITTED PHOTO Elmhurst Independent
New restaurant in Elmhurst
Ambassadors from the Elmhurst Chamber of Commerce and Elmhurst City Council Second Ward Alderman Karen Sienko joined co-owners Tony and Abbey Cannon for the July 21 grand opening of Aunt Tina’s Kitchen, 582 W. Lake Street, Elmhurst. The quick service restaurant specializes in homemade Southern Comfort Food.
Police beat
The Elmhurst Police Department recently reported the following arrests and citations. Persons charged with domestic battery are not named in order to protect the privacy of victims. Readers are reminded that an arrest does not constitute a conviction, and that subjects are considered innocent unless proven guilty in a court of law. Juveniles age 17 or younger are not named.
Criminal damage, criminal trespass
July 26
A victim in the 800 block of S. Cedar told police at 9:52 a.m. that an unknown suspect spray painted his garage door and threw a brick at his front window, breaking it.
July 23-July 24
A victim in the 100 block of S. Oakland Grove told police that an unknown suspect kicked in the service door to her garage. Nothing appeared to be missing.
Domestic battery, domestic incident,
disorderly
conduct, disturbance, dispute
July 30
A 49-year-old Elmhurst man was charged with two counts of domestic battery in the 200 block of E. Grantley at 6:30 p.m. Police said the suspect slapped a family member following a verbal argument.
July 28
A 52-year-old Elmhurst man was charged with two counts of domestic battery in the 300 block of N. Walnut at 9:31 p.m. According to police, a victim related that subsequent to a verbal argument, the suspect began pushing and punching her.
July 27
Eric A. Madsen, 47, of Cuba City, Wisconsin, was issued citations for disorderly conduct and assault in the 100 block of W. North at 1:49 p.m. Police said a complainant related that the suspect was acting aggressively and yelling at the victims.
DUI,
DUI-drugs, transportation of open alcohol, possession of open alcohol, consumption of alcohol by a minor
July 31
Carolina Albarran, 45, of Addison, was charged with DUI, improper lighting, improper lane usage and stopping in a roadway subsequent to a traffic stop near Lake and Grand at 10:40 p.m.
July 31
Joshua Parker, 31, of Palos Heights, was charged with DUI and illegal transportation of open alcohol in the 400 block of N. York at 4:23 a.m.
July 30
Everado Sanchez, 52, of Addison; Martin Tinoco Francisco, 49, of Chicago; and Alexis Saavedra Sanchez, 28, of Carol Stream, each received citations for possession of liquor in public in the 600 block of W. Lake. Police
said a complainant reported the suspects were drinking alcohol in the parking lot.
July 28
Adrian Zaragoza, 25, of Chicago, was charged with DUI, speeding and failure to signal when required subsequent to a traffic stop near North and Melrose at 2:39 a.m.
July 27
Khari Rogers, 20, of Arlington Heights, was issued a citation for possession of open alcohol by a minor in the 100 block of S. York at 11:04 p.m.
Entering unlocked vehicles
July 30-July 31
Elmhurst police said there were five incidents that occurred between the above dates of unknown suspects entering unlocked vehicles at the following locations: the 900 block of S. Parkside at 6:57 a.m.; the 800 block of S. Chatham at 8:23 a.m.; the 100 block of E. Wilson at 10:28 a.m.; the 300 block of E. Madison at 5:52 p.m.; and the 900 block of S. Parkside at 8:58 p.m.
Fleeing, eluding
According to information provided last week by the Elmhurst Police Department, police reported two incidents of fleeing and eluding during which the driver of a vehicle fled the scene after being stopped for a traffic stop by police.
Identity theft, fraud
According to information provided by the Elmhurst Police Department, police reported six recent incidents of identity theft or fraud.
Possession of cannabis
July 26
Justin Souchet, 18, of Bensenville and Tiffany A. Yamate, 18, of Wood Dale, were issued citations for possession of cannabis in the 100 block of N. Addison at 8:19 p.m.
Possession of cannabis in a vehicle
According to information provided last week by the Elmhurst Police Department, police reported one incident of possession of cannabis by either the driver of a vehicle or a passenger: Diamond Washington, 28, of Chicago Heights, near Route 83 and St. Charles at 6:59 p.m. July 26; Amir K. Saleh, 21, of Gurnee, near North and Indiana at 1:17 p.m. July 27; Maldonado Mendieta, 25, of Winnetka, near Route 83 and Armitage at 6:26 p.m. July 29.
Possession of a controlled substance
July 31
Police said an officer observed Michael P. Fulcher, 43, of Westmont, exit a store in the 900 block of S. York with a very heavy bag, and his jacket appeared to be bulkier than when he entered the store. The suspect was found to be in possession of merchandise from a store, He was charged with burglary, unlawful possession of a controlled substance, retail theft and possession of drug paraphernalia.
July 30
Benny Reyes Vega, 44 of Stone Park, was charged with driving while license suspended, possession of a controlled substance, possession of drug paraphernalia, unlawful display of registration, improper turn, no rear registration plate and no insurance subsequent to a traffic stop near Grand and Wilson at 12:17 a.m. Police said the suspect was found to be in possession of cocaine.
July 29
Adrian Korakiewicz, 30, of Melrose Park, was charged with two counts of unlawful possession of a controlled substance, driving while license suspended, possession of adultuse cannabis in a motor vehicle and speeding subsequent to a traffic stop near North and Willow at 4:17 p.m. Police said the suspect was found to be in possession of cannabis, amphetamines and cocaine.
Theft, retail theft, burglary, attempted theft or burglary, forgery, deceptive practice, obstruction, robbery
July 30
Jonathan Burkhart, 26, of Jeannette Pennsylvania, was charged with retail theft and burglary at a store in the 900 block of S. York at 6:21 a.m. Police said the suspect also was found to have a no bond warrant out of Cook County.
Keiner Sanchez Lopez, 21, and Ronald Alberto Jordan Mite, 31, both of Chicago, were charged with theft in the 100 block of E. Crestview at 10:21 a.m. According to police, a victim related a package delivered by FedEx was taken by a subject who was sitting in a silver Ford near the victim’s residence.
July 28
A reporting officer located a vehicle near North and Berteau at 6:14 p.m. The vehicle was reported stolen out of Chicago. Officers made contact with the driver, who was the registered owner. The Chicago Police Department was notified and the subject was released at the scene.
A complainant at a pharmacy in the 100 block of N. Robert T. Palmer told police that two unknown suspects—one described as a black male and the other described as a white male—took several bottles of alcohol and exited the store without paying.
July 26
Cavius Phipps, 30, of Bellwood, was charged with retail theft at a store in the 900 block of S. York at 11:11 p.m. Police said that subsequent to a retail theft in progress, Phipps was located and found to be in possession of stolen merchandise.
Jermill Washington, 32, and Carl Young, 31,
See POLICE, Page 7
Judges grant state’s motion to detain two men in unrelated child pornography cases
One of the suspects is an Oakbrook Terrace resident
DuPage County State’s Attorney Robert Berlin, Lombard Chief of Police Tom Wirsing and Warrenville Chief of Police Sam Bonilla announced that the court granted the state’s motion to deny pre-trial release for two DuPage County residents each accused of possession and distribution of child pornography in unrelated cases.
Joseph Gregoire, 38, of Oakbrook Terrace, appeared in front of Judge Leah Bendik at First Appearance Court on Aug. 1, and was charged with two counts of Child Pornography—Reproduce or Distribute (Class X Felony) and four counts of Possession of Child Pornography (Class 2 Felony).
The second individual, Jordan Erdakos, 26, of Warrenville, appeared in front of Judge Angelo Kappas at First Appearance Court Aug. 3, and was charged with one count of Child Pornography—Reproduce or Distribute (Class X Felony) and five counts of Possession of Child Pornography (Class 1 Felony).
As part of its ongoing investigations into child pornography, the Lombard Police Department received information that an individual going by the name of “Kinkypigbottom,” later identified as Gregoire, was allegedly sharing and disseminating child pornography. After receiving the information, officers obtained a search warrant for Gregoire’s home.
On July 31, officers executed the search warrant on the home, where they allegedly found videos and images of child pornography on two computers and a cell phone, some of which Gregoire had allegedly shared with others online. Gregoire was taken into custody at that time.
On July 28, the Warrenville Police Department received information that Erdakos was allegedly in possession of a cell phone that contained images of child pornography. After obtaining a search warrant for the phone, authorities allegedly observed hundreds of videos and images of child pornography, some of which had allegedly been shared, on Erdakos’ phone.
On July 30, officers with the Warrenville Police Department took Erdakos into custody from his home without incident. Erdakos is currently on sex offender probation after entering a plea of guilty to one count of possessing child pornography in May 2024. A condition of his probation includes no possession of any electronic devices capable of connecting to the Internet.
“The allegations that both of these men were not only in possession of child pornography but were actively sharing it with others are revolting,” Berlin said. “Each of these disgusting images and videos allegedly found on Mr. Gregoire’s and Mr. Erdakos’ devices, some of which depict infants and toddlers, represent yet another innocent victim of child pornography. The charges filed against these two men in as many days sends the message that in DuPage County, we will not hesitate in charging anyone suspected of possessing or distribut-
Jorden Erdakos
Joseph Gregoire
• Police
(Continued from page 6) both of Chicago, were charged with burglary and theft at a business in the 800 block of S. Hawthorne at 1:03 p.m. Police said the victim’s unlocked construction vehicle was burglarized.
A victim in the 400 block of W. Lake told police that an unknown suspect(s) stole his clothing from a hotel’s laundry room.
July 12-July 26
The service manager of an auto dealership in the 500 block of W. Lake reported he was contacted by the Chicago police regarding their dealer plate. The plate was found to be displayed on a black Nissan Altima during a robbery.
July 25
Colin Cushing, 18, of Elmhurst, was issued citations for possession of a fictitious driver’s license and expired registration subsequent to a traffic stop near York and South at 12:33 p.m.
July 13
Police said that subsequent to a report of bags that were left behind in the 100 block of N. York, an Elmhurst Public Library card was located in one of the bags and was found to be stolen. The owner of the card was contacted, and she stated that she lost her wallet in downtown Elmhurst. Upon checking security footage, a male subject was observed taking the bag that was left behind and quickly leaving the area.
Warrant arrest
July 31
Police said officers responded to the 900 block of S. Riverside at 11:02 p.m. for the report of a fight in progress. Upon their arrival, officers located John Dooley, 23, of Brooklyn, New York. Dooley was found to have a valid warrant out of Cook County, according to police. He was charged with battery and resisting a police officer.
July 29
Police said Pricilla Solis, 36, of Forest Park, came in to the police
• ‘Cue for a Cause
(Continued from front page)
their ribs in a blind judging pool that will also include Jim Lawshe’s ribs. If Jim’s ribs come out on top, all proceeds will go to EWAN. If another competitor wins, he or she will split the winnings with EWAN. Challengers do not have to participate in the general competition to go against Lawshe.
To learn more about both competitions and to register, interested parties should visit the EWAN website, elmhurstwalkin.org/cue.
The deadline to sign up is Aug. 19. The Elmhurst Walk-In Assistance Network is a non-profit that provides local families with financial assistance during a difficult time. It has given neighbors in need over two million dollars in help since its founding in 1997.
station to turn herself in on a warrant out of DuPage County.
July 26
Police said that subsequent to a retail theft investigation at a store in the 100 block of E. Schiller at 11:51 p.m., three suspects were apprehended and transported to the police station. Each suspect was found to have a valid warrant and transported to the DuPage County Jail. They are: Yvette Blackburn, 37; Joseph Anthony, 37; and Jameka Perry, 45, all of Chicago.
Violation of order of protection
July 31
Michael S. Stack, 78, of Arlington Heights, was charged with violation of an order of protection in the 500 block of N. York at 11:29 a.m. Police said a victim related the suspect had shown up at her place of work and was in violation of the order of protection.
• Cases
Foundation presents grant to Elmhurst Walk-In Assistance Network
The Elmhurst Walk-In Assistance Network (EWAN) recently received a $12,000 grant through DuPage Foundation’s Community Impact grant program to help meet the high demand for rental assistance for Elmhurst neighbors in need.
DuPage Foundation awarded nearly $940,000 to 52 DuPage County not-for-profit organizations in its spring 2024 grants. Thanks to additional donations from DuPage Foundation’s donors and donor-advisors, the Foundation was able to grant $480,000 above its regular Community Impact grant budget.
Since 1997, EWAN has provided compassionate assistance to members of the Elmhurst community experiencing a difficult time.
“The demand for our services has been very high this year. The current affordable housing crisis has made it harder than ever for lower-income families when unexpected circum-
(Continued from page 6)
ing child pornography. I commend the Lombard and Warrenville Police Departments for their work not only on this case, but for their ongoing efforts to protect our children from child pornographers. I thank Illinois Attorney General Kwame Raoul and his office for their assistance in this case. I also thank Assistant State’s Attorneys Alexandria Levan, Adam Frahm, Michael Pingaj, Philip Ungar and Anthony Raimondi for their work in preparing a strong case against these two defendants.”
“I would like to thank our law enforcement partners at the Attorney General’s Office and their Digital Forensics Investigative Division for their assistance on this case as well as State’s Attorney Bob Berlin and his team for their efforts in filing charges against Mr. Erdakos,” Wirsing said.
“The Warrenville Police Department would like to thank the West Chicago Police Department and the DuPage County Sheriff’s Office for their assistance in obtaining the digital forensic evidence needed to
stances arise. These funds from the DuPage Foundation will help us meet this demand and will help a number of families avoid the catastrophic effects of eviction,” said EWAN Executive Director Jackie Crnkovich.
“We are proud to share that 83 percent of eligible grant applications submitted this spring were funded,” said Barb Szczepaniak, DuPage Foundation vice president for programs. “These funds will amplify the impact of individual giving and strengthen the social fabric of our community.”
During DuPage Foundation’s Spring grant cycle each year, local not-for-profits like EWAN, serving DuPage County in the areas of health and human services, are awarded funding that supports programs and projects that improve and enrich the quality of life for DuPage County residents.
Grant applications in the areas of
bring charges against Erdakos,” Bonilla said. “These types of cases are always very difficult and disturbing to investigate and I thank State’s Attorney Bob Berlin for filing the appropriate charges. I commend my officers and investigation team for their ability to set their own emotions and beliefs aside and maintain professionalism in protecting our community from this evil.”
The next court appearance for both men is scheduled for Aug. 26, for arraignment in front of Judge Daniel Guerin.
“ We are proud
to share that 83 percent of eligible grant applications submitted this spring were funded. These funds will amplify the impact of individual giving and strengthen the social fabric of our community.”
– Barb Szczepaniak
education, environment, and animal welfare are due by Friday, Sept. 6, at 5 p.m. The 2024 grant guidelines are posted at dupagefoundation.org/ grants/community-impact.html. For more information about EWAN, visit its website, elmhurstwalkin.org.
DuPage Foundation, a 501(c)(3) community foundation, is DuPage County’s champion for philanthropy. DuPage Foundation manages more than $140 million in assets and has awarded more than $90 million in grants since its founding in 1986. Individuals and organizations seeking to provide impactful support to address critical issues in DuPage County and beyond can create powerful customizable gift solutions and partnerships through DuPage Foundation. For more information, visit dupagefoundation.org.
Viewpoint
Slices of life
Fixing a broken wheel
We are all broken. Some have just a dent in the fender; others need a whole new transmission.
We are dinged, bent, damaged, hurt, cracked, confused, crushed and cut to the quick.
Because life will sometimes do that to you—to me—to all of us. It changes us. It challenges us. It tosses us into the deep dark waters during a violent tempest because we were meant to whirl with the waves and experience the storm.
And the storm changes us in ways we never would have imagined. It leaves us broken—in tiny or allencompassing ways.
We often try to hide this. The broken pieces that reside within us. But people are smart. They see through our forced smile, our transparent armor, and they want to help.
They want to fix it.
I’ve thought about this and I think it’s simply a part of human nature - to want to heal the hurts in others - to make everything okay. To fix them.
Thing is, there is no undoing what’s been done. There is no changing the dings and the scrapes and the collisions we’d had in life. They exist as sure as the sunrise and sunset, and they can’t be erased.
And they needn’t be. They shouldn’t be.
Because our experiences, our past—good and bad—aren’t supposed to be overlooked, ignored or erased. They happened for a reason. And that reason—however cliché—made us the person we are today, scars and all.
But here’s something I’ve observed about scars and human nature and the troubles we all encounter in life:
Sometimes I just want to talk about mine. Sometimes I want to unload. Sometimes it feels like a relief to talk about these things out loud. Maybe it lessens them. Maybe it makes them more real—or less real.
Maybe it just helps to share. But here’s the crux: sometimes sharing is all I want to do. I’m not necessarily looking for a fix, because there often is no fix, and I’m guessing when you share like this, you aren’t looking to be fixed, either.
We tend to listen with the intent of responding and that involves solving or fixing. There’s nothing inherently wrong with this, it’s just not what most people want or need.
We don’t necessarily want, much less need, a response. We need to be heard. We want someone to listen without judgement, but even as importantly, without providing
By JILL PERTLER Columnist
solutions that we’ve most likely already thought of ourselves.
I guess I’m just thinking out loud here, because I’ve got as much to learn here as anyone else. I’m venting, if you will. And in that, I’m not looking for a quick fix from anyone. I am realizing I need to/ want to be more mindful (not to mention silent) when others confide in me. I’m going to try to remember my own advice and not give unwarranted advice. (Or at least ask if my advice is wanted.)
Times of trouble can be very large and very lonely. It is during those times we aren’t necessarily looking for solutions or problemsolving. People confiding in us don’t always need ideas about new hobby suggestions, church locations or places to meet new people. Maybe they aren’t looking for any of that Maybe, instead they are looking (we all are looking) simply for an ear. Maybe they are looking for the opposite of a quick fix. Maybe what they need most is a silent, supportive friend who has no need to fix because they love us just as we are, cracks and all.
Wouldn’t that be awesome?
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.
Letter
Thank you to the readers of the Elmhurst Independent that made a donation in order to receive the print version of the newspaper every week. Your donation helps us bring the Elmhurst community complete local news each and every week in print and online. By making a donation, readers don’t get a tote bag, T-shirt, coffee mug or CD of Lawrence Welk’s Greatest Hits. But they do get the satisfaction of knowing they have helped support the local hometown newspaper. See inside this issue for an order form to continue receiving the print version of the Elmhurst Independent.
In
the wake of Sonya Massey’s death, advocates want the state to act
Massey family members, activists call for Sangamon County Sheriff to step down
By Andrew Adams CAPITOL NEWS ILLINOIS
Calls of “Justice for Sonya” rang through the sanctuary of a church on Chicago’s West Side July 30 at a rally hosted in response to the death of Sonya Massey on July 6.
Massey, a Black woman, was killed in her home by Sangamon County Sheriff’s deputy Sean Grayson. Grayson, who is white, pleaded not guilty to charges of
first-degree murder, aggravated battery with a firearm and official misconduct stemming from the incident.
But for activists organizing around Massey’s death, Grayson’s charges are not enough to satisfy their calls for justice.
“There is something wrong with policing in the state of Illinois,” the Rev. Al Sharpton, whose National Action Network helped organize the July 30 rally, said.
Sharpton, who spent July 29 with President Joe Biden discussing the 60th anniversary of the Civil Rights Act, renewed his calls on Congress to pass a version of the George Floyd Justice in Policing Act, which was introduced in 2021.
crowd throughout the rally.
“In this law we need to make it illegal for police to be switching districts,” Sharpton said.
This proposal comes, in part, from Grayson’s work history. The 30-year old worked in six law enforcement agencies over four years before Massey’s death.
Prior to joining the Sangamon County Sheriff’s Office, he worked in Logan County, where he disregarded orders during a high-speed chase and faced at least one misconduct complaint.
The weekly Elmhurst Independent will still be available free at more than 80 newsstand locations in Elmhurst every Thursday. A weekly eSubscription is also available at no charge. With an eSubscription, a weekly link will be emailed for access to a PDF copy of the newspaper. The eSubscription can be read on a computer, laptop, or tablet. The eSubscription can be read before the paper is hot off the press. Visit rockvalleyenews.com to sign up for your free weekly digital copy of the newspaper.
Peter Cruger Publisher
But the longtime civil rights activist said while that bill is stalled in Congress, Illinois should act on similar legislation.
“We’ve got Black faces in high places in Illinois. Well, stand up and do something,” Sharpton said. “We didn’t elect you to give us a press release. We want justice, we want fairness, we want equality. And if you can’t do the job, then step back and let some people with some backbone step up and do what needs to be done.”
Sharpton called on Illinois officials to enact more police reforms through a “Sonya Massey Law,” a name echoed in chants from the
Some measures outlined in the George Floyd Act are mirrored in Illinois’ Safety, Accountability, Fairness and Equity-Today, or SAFE-T, Act, such as body camera requirements, a ban on chokeholds and expansions to police misconduct databases.
While that law, which sparked significant opposition from Republicans in the years since its passage, has been amended several times, some want further reform.
Chicago-based civil rights lawyer Antonio Romanucci, who worked on the George Floyd case, said last week that the Democratic National Convention in Chicago will provide activists an opportunity to lobby Gov. JB Pritzker and legislative leaders at the state Capitol to amend the
Page 9
Court grants state’s motion to detain man charged with leading police on a 123-mph high-speed chase
Defendant allegedly crashed into Naperville squad car as he fled
DuPage County State’s Attorney Robert Berlin and Naperville Chief of Police Jason Arres have announced that Judge Leah Bendik granted the state’s motion to deny pre-trial release for an Aurora man accused of fleeing from police at a high rate of speed and crashing his vehicle into a Naperville squad car as he fled.
Mitchell Simmons, 31, appeared in First Appearance Court and was charged with one count of aggravated fleeing and eluding a police officer (Class 4 felony), one count of aggravated assault on an officer (Class 4 felony) and multiple misdemeanor and petty traffic offenses including reckless driving, driving while license suspended and unauthorized
use of handicapped parking.
On July 25, at approximately 12:48 a.m., officers with the Naperville Police Department were in the area of the Naperville Extended Stay when they observed a vehicle allegedly illegally parked in a handicapped parking space.
As officers approached the vehicle, which was idling at the time, they observed an individual, later identified as Simmons, with his eyes closed and his pants around his ankles in the driver’s seat.
After officers made contact with the defendant, he opened his eyes but was non-compliant when asked for his driver’s license and insurance.
It is alleged that when officers ordered Simmons out of the vehicle, he put the vehicle in reverse and accelerated, striking a marked Naperville Police Department squad car and causing an officer to jump out of the way to avoid being struck
by the vehicle. It is alleged that Simmons then turned onto Diehl Road at which time officers initiated a pursuit which ultimately included six police vehicles in marked squad cars with their emergency lights and sirens activated.
It is alleged that Simmons continued to flee across a raised median on Diehl Road to Route 59, to I-88, where he reached speeds of approximately 123 mph., onto I-290 where he reached speeds in excess of 100 mph in a construction zone. Officers with the Hinsdale Police Department successfully deployed spike strips on I-290 and disabled a tire, but Simmons allegedly continued driving his vehicle at a high rate of speed and continued to do so after officers with the Oak Brook Police Department were able to disable a second tire on his vehicle.
It is further alleged that Simmons exited the expressway on 25th Street
and ultimately turned on to a dead end street and crashed into a chain link fence where he exited his vehicle and fled on foot. He was taken into custody after a brief foot pursuit.
“The allegation that Mr. Simmons crashed his vehicle into a squad car, nearly striking an officer, and then led police on a high-speed chase in excess of 100 mph, at one point through a construction zone, are outrageous,” Berlin said. “Mr. Simmons’ alleged actions demonstrate a complete disregard for public safety and the rule of law, which will not be tolerated in DuPage County. Thankfully, no innocent motorists were injured or worse as a result of Mr. Simmons’ alleged actions. As I have said numerous times in the past, fleeing from the police will only make matters worse for you. I thank the Naperville Police Department for their efforts in this case as well as the Oak Brook and Hinsdale police depart-
ments for their assistance. Their coordinated efforts led to the successful apprehension of the defendant before he could cause serious injury to himself or someone else.”
“The arrest of this suspect who fled from our officers at a high rate of speed underscores the extreme danger posed by such reckless behavior. In addition to fleeing, it is alleged that he almost struck an officer with his vehicle and also hit an unoccupied police car,” said Arres. “Highspeed pursuits not only put the lives of our dedicated law enforcement personnel at risk, but also innocent drivers in the community. We remain committed to ensuring the safety of our citizens and will continue to take decisive action against those who threaten it.”
Simmons’ next court appearance is scheduled for Aug. 19, for arraignment in front of Judge Margaret O’Connell.
Court grants state’s motion to deny pre-trial release for Berkeley man charged with providing fatal dose of narcotics to Darien man
DuPage County State’s Attorney Robert Berlin and Darien Chief of Police Greg Thomas have announced that Judge Leah Bendik has granted the state’s motion to deny pre-trial release for a Berkeley man charged with supplying a fatal dose of illegal narcotics to Michael Rice of Darien.
narcotics from Woodgett. It is alleged that at approximately 11:00 p.m., the same day, Woodgett went to Rice’s home and delivered the narcotics to him.
by the Darien Police Department identified Woodgett as the individual who allegedly supplied the fatal dose of narcotics to the victim.
thirty years in the penitentiary. I thank the Darien Police Department as well as the Drug Enforcement Administration for their outstanding efforts on this very sad case.”
Willie Woodgett, 37, appeared in First Appearance Court and was charged with one count of drug induced homicide, a Class X felony.
On July 24, DuPage County Judge Bendik issued an arrest warrant for Woodgett. He was taken into custody on July 30.
It is alleged that on March 30, 2023, the victim arranged to receive illegal
• Advocates
SAFE-T Act.
It is further alleged that at some point in time between March 30, 2023 and April 1, 2023, Rice ingested the narcotics provided to him by Woodgett and subsequently passed away from a drug overdose. On April 1, 2023, at approximately 12:38 p.m., officers with the Darien Police Department responded to a call made by the victim’s mother regarding an unconscious male in the family home.
Rice was pronounced deceased on April 2, 2023. An autopsy determined the cause of death to be combined drug toxicity of fentanyl, ethanol, diphenhydramine, alprazolam, xylazine and buprenorphine. Rice was prescribed alprazolam.
An investigation into the matter conducted
(Continued from page 8)
Specifically, he advocated for instituting a waiting period for officers transferring between departments to allow for “proper vetting.”
“We want to fix this hole,” Romanucci said. “The SAFE-T Act is flawed.”
Senate President Don Harmon, D-Oak Park, defended the SAFE-T Act in a statement last week, but said he would consider new ideas in response to Massey’s death.
“We took steps to address this in the SAFE-T Act by requiring law enforcement to report misconduct violations when an officer is terminated or when an officer resigns under investigation of criminal offenses,” he said. “However, our work is not done, and I am open to any ideas for legislative action to prevent a tragedy like this
from ever happening again.”
Jaclyn Driscoll, a spokesperson for House Speaker Emanuel “Chris” Welch, D-Hillside, said Grayson “should not have been an officer of the law given his track record.”
“It is the responsibility of our police and sheriff’s departments to utilize the tools this law provides,” Driscoll said. “With that said, Speaker Welch remains committed to responsible reform and refinements of the SAFE-T Act to ensure no family has to endure the same pain and suffering that Sonya Massey’s is right now.”
Romanucci also pointed blame for Massey’s death at Sangamon County Sheriff Jack Campbell and called on him to resign. Massey’s father, James Wilburn also called on Campbell to step down.
Campbell attended a listening ses-
“The tragic death of another promising life serves as a terrifying reminder of the extreme danger illegal narcotics, particularly fentanyl, continue to be in our communities,” Berlin said. “Abruptly losing a family member can have a paralyzing effect on not just the immediate family, but also on surviving friends and relatives. I wish the entire Rice family and all those who knew and loved Michael strength as they continue their lives without the love and support they once enjoyed from Michael.
“The charges filed against Mr. Woodgett sent a crystal-clear message that if you supply narcotics that cause the death of another, you will be identified, charged, prosecuted and if found guilty, face up to
sion facilitated by the U.S. Department of Justice on July 29, where he apologized and said his department “failed” Massey, her family and the community. He also said he did not plan to resign.
“He wanted to ask our forgiveness,” Wilburn said. “Anyone else in my family can forgive him, but I’m not. Because he has my baby’s blood on his hands. He’s got to go.”
Wilburn indicated that if Campbell didn’t resign and if no one else ran against him, he would take matters into his own hands and try to unseat Campbell, who was first elected to his position in 2018, and reelected in 2022.
“I’m not announcing my candidacy yet,” Wilburn said. “But I will. But I will.” Massey’s family is being represent-
“Unfortunately, drug usage and overdoses continue to be a scourge on society,” Thomas said. “While efforts such as drug collection points, changes in how doctors can prescribe medicines, rehabilitation centers and the use of Narcan have been successful, there are still too many times that this type of tragedy occurs. I appreciate our officers’ ongoing efforts in combating drugs and their efforts during this investigation, as well as State’s Attorney Bob Berlin and his team to bring criminal charges. I’m sad for the Rice family and all families who endure this type of tragedy.”
Woodgett’s next court appearance is scheduled Aug. 26 for arraignment in front of Judge Daniel Guerin.
ed by Ben Crump, dubbed by Sharpton as the “attorney general for Black America.” Crump has risen to national prominence in recent years after he began representing families of Black people killed by law enforcement officers, including George Floyd, Breonna Taylor, Jacob Blake, Daunte Wright and others.
The rally July 30 was the latest in a growing list of marches, rallies and protests held in response to Massey’s death.
Activist groups declared Sunday, July 28, a “day of mourning” for Massey and groups held events in New York, Los Angeles and St. Louis among other locations. In Springfield, around 300 people gathered at Comer Cox Park with the Massey family as part of the nationwide demonstrations.
On July 27, Chicago saw a rally calling for police reform and a downtown march attended by hundreds. That march was organized in response to Massey’s death as well as the deaths of two Black men—Samuel Sharpe Jr. and D’Vontaye Mitchell—in Milwaukee earlier this month. That group also wants Congress to pass reforms initially introduced in 2021.
“The murder of Sonya Massey is one of the most horrific police killings I’ve ever seen,” Frank Chapman, one of the organizers of Saturday’s protest and longtime left-wing activist, said in a statement last week. “And just like Congress refused to pass an anti-lynching bill for a hundred years, they are refusing to pass the George Floyd bill now.”
Andrew Campbell contributed reporting to this story.
Mitchell Simmons
Willie Woodgett
ReAl estAte/Business
Forest Preserve District board to ask voters for funding to protect open space
Proposed tax increase would fund preservation of woodlands, wetlands, and prairies
The Forest Preserve District of DuPage County’s board of commissioners voted to place a referendum on the Nov. 5 ballot.
If approved by voters, it would increase the property tax rate for the Forest Preserve District by an additional 0.0350% above the limiting rate.
Since 2006 when DuPage voters last approved a Forest Preserve District referendum, the annual visitor count, which remained steady at 3 million until 2020, grew to its present-day 5.5 million (an 83% increase). During that time, for every dollar a property owner pays in real estate tax, the portion going to the Forest Preserve District has dropped from 2.3 cents per dollar to 1.5 cents per dollar.
If passed, the portion of each tax dollar received by the Forest Preserve District would still be less
Police remind residents to lock their vehicles at night
Several overnight thefts to unlocked vehicles reported in south Elmhurst
The Elmhurst Police Department reported last week that there were several overnight thefts from unlocked cars parked in residential driveways in south Elmhurst.
According to a police department statement on Aug. 2, the department’s investigations division “learned there have been scores of property thefts from unlocked cars over the last week in numerous DuPage County suburbs.”
The Elmhurst Police Department issued the following tips to residents:
• Park vehicles inside, if possible
• Remove valuables and property from parked cars
• Remove key fobs and garage door openers from vehicles
• Always lock your car. Don’t make it easy for thieves.
If you spot suspicious people or cars in your neighborhood during the early morning hours, call 911.
than 2 cents for every dollar.
In addition to more visitors, the Forest Preserve District now has more holdings to protect than ever before. Since 2006, the Forest Preserve District grew by more than 600 acres of open space, added 30 miles of trails, restored 8,500 acres of land, and restored 30 miles of rivers and streams.
For a DuPage County property owner, this change would translate to an estimated additional tax of $11.67 per $100,000 of home value for the 2024 levy year.
The increase would provide the Forest Preserve District with essential funding to:
• Preserve, restore, and maintain forests, open spaces, and water quality.
• Acquire lands to protect rivers, watersheds, and wildlife habitats.
• Plant trees and enhance flood control and drainage systems.
• Maintain and improve woodlands, wetlands, and prairies.
• Provide nature education and outdoor opportunities for all ages.
• Increase access and safety in forest preserves.
• Improve recreational amenities like multiuse trails and campgrounds.
Per state law, the Forest Preserve District cannot increase the tax levy over the limiting rate without voter approval. For further information on the referendum, visit dupageforest.org/referendum2024.
NAMI DuPage Run for the Mind, Health Fair takes place Sept. 14
The Run for the Mind and Health Fair, a fundraiser for NAMI DuPage, and the Color Run—a fundraiser for NAMI DuPage, Serenity House and the DuPage Preseveration leadership team—will be held Saturday Sept. 14 at the DuPage County Fairgrounds, Wheaton.
One of the most important components in breaking the stigma associated with mental illness is ensuring that no person ever feels they are alone. For this reason, and many
more, NAMI DuPage has joined forces with Serenity House and the DuPage Prevention Leadership Team for this fundraiser.
The Color Run is broken down into three events: the 5K run starts at 8 a.m. Sept. 14, the Diaper Dash takes place at 9:30 a.m. and the 1-mile Color Run starts at 10 a.m.
Entry fees are $45 for the 5K run, $15 for the Diaper Dash and $25 for the Color Run. The combo rate is $60.
Elmhurst author to hold book launch party on Aug. 13
Elmhurst resident Patricia Motto recently released a book—“To the Men I’ve Loved (God Help Them)”—and will have a launch party at Stage 119/Modern Plate, 119 N. York St., from 7 to 9 p.m. on Tuesday, Aug. 13.
Motto will sign her books and give a short reading during the launch party.
There will be a cash bar at the event. There will be no food. No RSVP is needed.
Motto will also be participating in the Elmhurst Public Library’s local authors’ book fair on Saturday, Aug. 24.
More information on the book and an interview with Motto can be found at www.eckhartzpress.com.
Proceeds from the 5K will go to support the many free support groups, programs, and classes provided by NAMI DuPage.
In addition to the runs, NAMI DuPage will be hosting a Health Fair. Booths from area organizations will be filled with information and resources pertaining to mental health. To reserve a booth for your organization—or for more information or to buy tickets—go to: https://namidupage.org/run-for-the-mind to request a vendor space.
LEGAL NOTICES
Request for Variation
Notice is hereby given that the Elmhurst Zoning and Planning Commission/Zoning Board of Appeals will hold a public hearing on Tuesday, August 27, 2024 at 7:00 p.m., in the Elmhurst City Hall, 209 N. York Street, Elmhurst, Illinois. The purpose of this hearing is to consider a request by Marcus Lindemulder, property owner, for a front yard setback Variation at the property commonly known as 630 S. Washington Street, Elmhurst, Illinois for the purpose of constructing a front porch.
Following is a legal description of the subject property:
LOT 5 IN CURRY’S DIVISION OF THE SOUTH 1/2 OF LOT 22 AND LOTS 23, 24, 25 AND 26, (EXCEPT THE EAST 1/2 OF LOT 25 AND THE SOUTH 50 FEET OF THE EAST 1/2 OF LOT 24) OF WILCOX RESUBDIVISION OF BLOCKS 1, 2, 3 AND 4 (EXCEPT LOT 1 IN BLOCK 1) IN SOUTH ELMHURST, A SUBDIVISION OF OUTLOT 1 IN BRYAN’S SUBDIVISION IN ELMHURST, BEING IN THE EAST 1/2 OF THE SOUTHEAST 1/4 OF SECTION 11, TOWNSHIP 39 NORTH, RANGE 11, EAST OF THE THIRD PRINCIPAL MERIDIAN, ACCORDING TO THE PLAT OF SAID CURRY’S DIVISION AFORESAID, RECORDED NOVEMBER 27, 1926 AS DOCUMENT 225667, IN DUPAGE COUNTY, ILLINOIS.
PIN: 06-11-416-035
The common street address is 630 S. Washington Street, Elmhurst, Illinois. The subject property is located within the R2 – Single Family Residence District.
If you have any questions regarding this case, please contact the Community Development Department at 630-530-3121.
Any person who has a disability requiring a reasonable accommodation to participate in this meeting, should contact Emily Palm, ADA Compliance Officer, Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., City of Elmhurst, 209 N. York Street, Elmhurst, IL 60126, call 630-530-3770 or email HR@elmhurst.org within a reasonable time before the meeting. Please provide as much notice as possible for sign language interpreting requests.
Eileen Franz, City Planner
(Published in The Elmhurst Independent Aug. 8, 2024) 459535
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
Community calendar
Pick of the week:
Thursday, Aug. 8
Music at the Gazebo
FINAL concert of the season
Rescheduled due to last week’s weather threats, the last concert for Music at the Gazebo will be held from 6:30-8:30 p.m. at Wild Meadows Trace on Spring Road. The Elmhurst School of Rock to start the evening out, followed by The Sting Rays performing music from the ‘50s, ‘60s, ‘70s Rock ‘n Roll and some of today’s hits. All are invited to attend. Note: This event is held on Park District property so alcoholic beverages are not permitted. Info: SpringRoad.com.
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.
Saturday, Aug. 17
Attention seniors! At 10 a.m., there will be Senior Community Conversation held at City Hall, hosted by Mayor Scott Levin. The event will include valuable information about Elmhurst ALERTS, transportation updates, and essential safety tips from Elmhurst’s fire and police departments. Don’t miss out—reserve your spot by calling 309703-7748.
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 9 th 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
Final weeks! 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 week! Now through Sunday, Aug. 11, Designing Donkey Hodie – From Make-Believe to Someplace Else is showing. Info: 630-834-0202 or visit elmhurstartmuseum.org.
Obituary
SALLY RUDMAN
Sally was born to Leo Grayston Lewis, Sr (deceased) and Delphine Adelaide McNichols (deceased). Sally grew up in Elmhurst with her beloved brothers and sisters; Pete (Ettie) Lewis; Madeleine (Walter) Pederson; David (Rita) Lewis; Delphine “Janan” (Leonard “Bud”) Kroeger; Sharon (William “Bill”) Johnson. Sadly for us, they preceded Sally in death but we believe it makes for a glorious celebration in Heaven on her arrival there!
fortunate enough to travel….via the United States Army to some places where they made beautiful friendships that continued throughout the years. They had 4 children: Joseph (Barbara) Rudman; Edward (Sandra) Rudman, Luana Krott, and Jerald (Mary Kim) Rudman. They shared a blended family that included son Robert Flint who also preceded Sally in death. WAIT? Blended? Yes, Sally and Joe went their separate ways for a bit and had relationships with other people. Divorced for many years, no contact. Until the youngest son’s wedding brought them back together and they reconnected just like they were teenagers! (They did grow up).
Sally was a well-respected elected official as Assessor for York Township in Lombard, IL until her retirement in 2004.
Then Sally got to travel just for fun with Joe and they took epic road trips, explored along the way, cruised and enjoyed family. After Joe passed, Sally took to the water….moving to Naples, Fl to be near the ocean (Las Cruces is “kinda” dry and hot).
Sally met the love of her life while in high school and his name was Edward Joseph Rudman aka “Joe” to friends and family. They were
Sally spent another 12 years of wedded bliss with Joe and retired to Las Cruces, New Mexico where they enjoyed a small community of people that became good friends.
Sally was beloved “Nana” to SO many grandchildren and great grandchildren that I would be afraid to offend any I leave off. I’m not going to name everyone because there are too many for me to remember. You all know who you are and you felt “Nana”s love in some way or another.
Funeral mass Aug. 16 at Christ The King Lombard followed by internment at Queen of Heaven Hillside.
Secretary of state’s Teen Summer DMV Program ending Aug. 24
Teen drivers have just three more Saturdays to take advantage of the Secretary of State’s Teen Summer DMV program, Secretary of State Alexi Giannoulias announced on Aug. 2.
Giannoulias announced in June that for the first time ever, his office would dedicate DMV services exclusively for teen drivers every Saturday at select facilities throughout the state. More than 50,000 Illinois teens received their first driver’s license during the months of June and July.
Now, with just four Saturdays left to access exclusive teen hours, Giannoulias is encouraging any eligible teens to make an appointment before they go back to school.
“We have seen this summer the success of these teen-only DMVs that provide a convenient DMV option for working parents who can’t take time
off work during the week or for teens who have summer sports and activities,” Giannoulias said. “As we near the end of our program this summer, I want to make sure that our eligible teens can get their license before school starts and their schedules and their parent’s schedules get even busier.”
The Teen Summer DMV initiative, which included opening 12 additional DMVs on Saturdays from 8 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. ends Aug. 24.
The hours cater exclusively to helping teens get their driver’s licenses or permits quickly and conveniently. The effort is part of Giannoulias’ modernization plan to create efficiencies and reduce wait times.
During teen service hours, the office has a selfie station for newly licensed drivers and provides important
information on data protection, such as making sure the driver’s license number and address are covered when posting to social media.
State law requires teen drivers and a parent or guardian to visit a DMV in person to complete testing and identity verification prior to receiving their first driver’s license. Illinois DMVs experience an influx of customers during the summer months, especially among teen drivers who make the switch from an instruction permit to a driver’s license.
Parents and teens can call (800) 252-8980 to schedule an appointment at any of the 12 DMV locations.
Teen service hours are offered at the following locations: Addison, Aurora, Bethalto, Belvidere, Bridgeview, Chicago West, Des Plaines, Elgin, Joliet, Lake Zurich, Plano and St. Charles.
WATCH ALL GAMES HERE!
Sebastianshouse.com 801 E. Roosevelt Rd., Lombard (630) 376-6947 8900 Fairview Ave., Brookfield
H DAILY DINE IN ONLY SPECIALS H
SUNDAYS
50¢ Boneless Wings LIMIT 12 (with side purchase)
$5 Sausage & Peppers ‘Wich (with side purchase)
$9 Pasta Marinara (add $2 for Vodka, Meat, Carbonara or Alfredo)
$10 Bacon Wrapped Pickle Spears
$10 Vegan Pasta Marinara
$4 Mimosa - $6 Tito’s Bloody Mary
$4.50 Miller Lite or $6 Import 22 oz. Drafts
$17 Bottles of Woodbridge House Wine
H H H
TUESDAYS
$2 Beef/Pulled Pork Taco
$3 Chicken - Fish - Pork Belly - Steak
$4 Vegan Tacos - Impossible Meat - Chicken - Pork
$4 Cilantro Lime Rice or Seasoned Black Beans
$10 BACON Nachos
$4 Modelo Draft
$6 Don Julio Margaritas
$7 Don Julio Frozen Margaritas
$20 Any Mexican Beer Buckets
H H H
WEDNESDAYS
Half Price Bottles of Wine $25 or More
FREE Bar Bingo/Kids eat free 10 and Under - Ask server for more details
$5 Gourmet Cheeseburger (with side purchase)
$10 BACON Wrapped Mushrooms
$8 Impossible Burger (with side purchase)
$5 U Call Its $8 and Under Wine/Liquor ONLY
Indulge in our New Vegan and Dessert food items
THURSDAYS
We’re Now Pouring 394 Bourbons, Scotches and Whiskeys. 1/2 Off $20 or more pours. 90 to Choose from.
$5 Pulled Pork ‘Wich (with side purchase)
$10 BACON Wrapped Mozzarella Sticks
$8 Vegan Chicken Parmesan ‘Wich (with side purchase)
$4 Drafts $8 and Under
H H H
FRIDAYS
$5 Pepper & Egg ‘Wich (with side purchase)
$15 Fish & Chips (1/2 Pound Alaskan White Fish)
$10 Bacon Stuffed Avocado
$8 Vegan Burrito (with side purchase)
$5 Stella Draft
$5 Crown or Titos
$25 High Noon Buckets
H H H
SATURDAYS/UFC
$5 1/2 Lb BLT ‘Wich (with side purchase)
$10 BACON Croquettes
$8 Vegan Buffalo Chicken ‘Wich (with side purchase)
$5 Sam Seasonal Draft
$5 Proper Twelve Shot
$5 Absolut or Jameson
$22 Modelo Buckets
H H H
CLOSED - MONDAYS
FRIDAY
Come, Sing and get a chance to go to our finals. Cash and prizes for top 3 winners on the first Fridays of the month.
Watch the Paris Olympic Games Here!
Try Our New Non-Alcoholic Cocktails!
36 Drafts & 394 Bourbons, Scotches & Whiskeys
HAPPY HOUR
Tuesday-Friday 3pm-6pm
99¢ Chicken Tenders ~ SLIDERS ~
$2 Grilled Chicken - Meatball - Pulled Pork
$3 Burger - Fish - Pork Belly
$4 Vegan Chicken or Impossible Slider
$5 Italian Beef ‘Wich
$8 Medium Cheese Pizza - $3 Full Toppings
$12 XL Cheese Pizza - $4 Full Toppings
$4 Well Gin, Rum, Tequila, Vodka & Whiskey
$4 House Wine (Woodbridge)
$5 Blue Moon Drafts
$15 Domestic Buckets - $20 Import Buckets
$8 Jefferson Old Fashioned
$5 Jefferson 1.25 oz. Pour
College news
• Julianna Moran from Elmhurst has been named to the University of Delaware Dean’s List for the spring 2024 semester. To meet eligibility requirements for the Dean’s List, a student must be enrolled full-time and earn a grade-point average of 3.5 or above (on a 4.0 scale) for the semester.
• Domenico Martinello of Elmhurst has been named to the Dean’s List for the spring 2024 semester at John Carroll University in University Heights, Ohio. Students eligible for the Dean’s List must have completed a minimum of 12 semester hours within one semester and have a quality grade point average of at least 3.5 on a 4.0 scale.
• Declan Kenneally of Elmhurst was named to the spring 2024 dean’s list at the University of Dallas (Irving, Texas) for earning a semester GPA of 3.5 or higher. Kenneally is a junior politics major. Undergraduate students at the University of Dallas must complete two years of fundamental coursework in the humanities, sciences, politics, mathematics and fine arts. Students must also complete coursework in Ancient Greek, French, German, Italian, Latin or Spanish.
• Elizabeth A. Hartlage, of Elmhurst, was named to second honors on the Dean’s List at Clark University in Worcester, Massachusetts. This selection marks outstanding academic achievement during the spring 2024 semester.
• Students must have a GPA of 3.8 or above for first honors or a GPA between 3.50 and 3.79 for second honors.
• Miami University (Oxford, Ohio) awarded degrees to the following students from Elmhurst during the its spring commencement of 2024: Elizabeth Anwar, Maggie Jacobson, Thomas Kamienski, Sara Krissinger, Bridget Los, Kate Reagan, Ruby Schwan, Bella Walker, Brennan Wall and Ben Weirman.
• Miami University (Oxford, Ohio) awarded degrees to students during its fall commencement in December 2023. The graduates included Anthony Gusich and Andrea Redfearn, both of Elmhurst.
• Miami University (Oxford, Ohio) students from Elmhurst who were named to the Dean’s List for the spring 2024 semester included: Maggie Jacobson, Spano Civella, Alec Dorta, Nick Mattis, Dominic Ruiz, Nathan Olson, Ruby Schwan, Lily Jurasek and Sara Krissinger. Students who are ranked in the top 20 percent of undergraduate students within each division for the semester are named to the Dean’s List. Students ranked in the top 3 percent of undergraduate students within each division are named to the President’s List. The students from Elmhurst who were named to the President’s List included: Joseph Valeski, Bella Walker, Mia Hoyos and Allie McGreal.
• The University of Tampa named more than 2,200 students to the Dean’s List for the spring 2024 semester. To be eligible for the Dean’s List, students must maintain a gradepoint average of 3.75 or higher. The honored students included Elizabeth Kraus of Elmhurst—a sophomore
majoring in marketing, and Grace Doyle of Elmhurst—a junior majoring in Allied Health.
• Cate Chlystek of Elmhurst and Madelynn Kennedy of Elmhurst were both named to the 2023-24 Dean’s List at Lawrence University in Appleton, Wisconsin. The list is compiled at the end of the academic year once all grades have been recorded. For a student to be included on the Dean’s List, the student must have earned at least 36 units in Lawrence courses during the academic year and have earned a grade-point average of at least 3.5 in those courses, with no unsatisfactory grades.
• Edwin Espinosa of Elmhurst was named to the College of the Holy Cross (Worcester, Massachusetts) spring 2024 Dean’s List. A member of the Class of 2026, Espinosa was named to the Dean’s List for outstanding academic achievement during the spring semester of the 2023-24 academic year. To qualify, students must pass four or more letter-graded courses with no failing grades during the semester and earn a grade-point average of 3.5 or higher.
• Augustana College in Rock Island announced more than 1,100 students were named to the Dean’s List for the 2023-24 spring semester. Students who have earned this academic honor have maintained a gradepoint average of 3.5 or higher on a 4.0 scale for courses taken during the term. The honored students from Elmhurst include: Cristina Costa—a Psychology and Communication Studies major, Hannah Johnson—an Art and Psychology major, and Aiden Koehne—a Political Science and Communication Studies major.
• Carthage College (Kenosha, Wisconsin) congratulates its students who have been named to the spring 2024 Dean’s List for their academic achievement. Dean’s List honors are accorded to Carthage students who achieve a minimum 3.5 grade-point average while carrying at least 12 letter-graded credits in a given semester. The honored students from Elmhurst include: Shannon Campione, Alexis Greve, Megan Hewitt, Maura Walsh and Joseph Westphal.
• Carthage College (Kenosha, Wisconsin) celebrated more than 600 graduates on its campus on the shore of Lake Michigan May 17-19. Students from Elmhurst who completed their degree requirements in May included: Alexis Greve, who earned a Bachelor of Arts in finance and management, and Troy Siranovic, who earned a Master of Science in business and sports management.
• Kendall Dirks of Elmhurst was named to the Dean’s List at Rochester Institute of Technology (Rochester, New York) for the spring semester of the 2023-24 academic year. Dirks is in the 3D digital design program.
• Maya Iyer of Elmhurst has earned a Master of Science in Computer Science from the Georgia Institute of Technology, or Georgia Tech, in Atlanta. Iyer was among more than 5,700 undergraduate and graduate students to be presented Georgia Tech degrees during the Institute’s 266th commencement exercises, held May 2-4.
St. Timothy Evangelical Lutheran Church
547 N. Main St., Lombard, IL 60148 630-627-2435
Lent and Easter Services at 7 p.m.
Sunday Worship at 10:15 am
“The Crucial Hours”
Sunday School & Bible Study 9 am Saturday, August 24 Game Night at 4 pm
Second Lenten Service March 9, 2022
Rev. David Ernest “Satan Has Asked to Sift All of You” Jerusalem Lutheran, Morton Grove Matthew 27:15-26
Everyone is Welcome!
Third Lenten Service March 16, 2022
All services are live streamed. Watch on our website or on Facebook. sainttimothy.org
Rev. Paul Spaude “What to Remember When Your are St. Matthews, Niles Seized with Remorse” Matthew 27:3-4
Fourth Lenten Service March 23, 2022
Rev. Jonathan Bergemann “I Will Keep the Passover”
779 S. York Street Elmhurst, IL 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:
Available in Our Lady Mother of the Eucharist Chapel 24/7
• College news
• The following students from Elmhurst earned the distinction of Faculty Honors for Spring 2024 at the Georgia Institute of Technology, or Georgia Tech, in Atlanta: Jack Sanders and Aubrey Hall. This designation is awarded to undergraduate
(Continued from page 15)
students who have earned a 4.0 academic average for the semester.
• The University of Nebraska-Lincoln announced its Deans’ List for the 2023-24 academic year. Qualifications for the Deans’ List varies among the eight undergraduate col-
leges and the Explore Center. Students can be on the Deans’ List for more than one college. The honored students from Elmhurst include: Fio-
na Elizabeth Cunningham, junior, Dean’s List, College of Arts and Sciences, communication studies; Sarah Levy, senior, Dean’s List, College of Business, marketing; Ryan Pickell, junior, Dean’s List, College of Business, marketing.
• Ariana Fraser of Elmhurst has been named to Kennesaw State University’s Spring 2024 Dean’s List.
NOTICE TO OUR READERS
Fraser is majoring in Accounting-Interest at the university, located in Kennesaw, Georgia. To qualify for the Dean’s List, students must earn a semester grade-point average of 3.5 or higher and complete a minimum of nine credit hours.
• More than 6,500 University of Iowa undergraduate, graduate and professional students received their degrees in May. The 2024 spring semester graduates from Elmhurst included:
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Dominic Milazzo (Awarding College: College of Liberal Arts and Sciences; Major: Psychology; Degree: Bachelor of Arts);
Julia Mooradian (Awarding College: College of Liberal Arts and Sciences; Major: Psychology; Degree: Bachelor of Arts);
Evelyn Nudera (Awarding College: College of Liberal Arts and Sciences; Major: Interdepartmental Studies; Degree: Bachelor of Arts); Sophie Ward (Awarding College: College of Liberal Arts and Sciences; Major: Computer Science; Degree: Bachelor of Arts);
Ella Burr of (Awarding College: College of Liberal Arts and Sciences; Major: Enterprise Leadership; Degree: Bachelor of Arts);
Ava Cohen (Awarding College: College of Liberal Arts and Sciences; Major: Environmental Policy and Planning; Degree: Bachelor of Arts); Anthony Abbatecola (Awarding College: Tippie College of Business; Major: Marketing; Degree: Bachelor of Business Administration);
William Ciannella (Awarding College: Tippie College of Business; Major: Business Analytics and Information Systems; Degree: Bachelor of Business Administration); Roshan Hoffmann (Awarding College: Tippie College of Business; Major: Business Analytics and Information Systems; Degree: Bachelor of Business Administration); Luke Imburgia (Awarding College: Tippie College of Business; Major: Accounting; Degree: Bachelor of Business Administration); Caroline Marshall (Awarding College: Tippie College of Business; Major: Business Analytics and Information Systems; Degree: Bachelor of Business Administration); Colby Schreiter (Awarding College: Tippie College of Business; Major: Finance; Degree: Bachelor of Business Administration); Spencer Wheatland (Awarding College: Tippie College of Business; Major: Management; Degree: Bachelor of Business Administration); Jackson Timble (Awarding College: Tippie College of Business; Major: Finance; Degree: Bachelor of Business Administration); Theresa Conroy (Awarding College: College of Liberal Arts and Sciences; Major: Health Promotion; Degree: Bachelor of Science); Liam Warren (Awarding College: College of Engineering; Major: Mechanical Engineering; Degree: Bachelor of Science in Engineering);
Justin Zellinger (Awarding College: College of Engineering; Major: Chemical Engineering; Degree: Bachelor of Science in Engineering);
IC Catholic Prep graduate
Sport S
Leslie headed to Le Moyne
Will play volleyball for Division II school
By Mike Miazga
CORRESPONDENT
Recent IC Catholic Prep gradu -
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.
York boys basketball team has productive summer
ate Bella Leslie wanted to head east for college.
By Mike Miazga CORRESPONDENT
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 libero.
This summer was particularly important for the York boys basketball team. The Dukes used their time together in June to gain valuable experience after eight seniors graduated from a 2023-2024 team that went 26-8 and lost by a point to Glenbard North in a Class 4A sectional championship game. “We are trying to find our way,” York coach Mike Dunn said. “We graduated eight seniors, so we have a lot of inexperienced kids in terms of varsity minutes. We had a productive summer and improved a lot. Kids got those needed varsity minutes. We continue to be a work in progress, but they
“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 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.”
By Mike Miazga CORRESPONDENT
“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.”
found their way a little bit.”
York played in the Downers Grove South summer league, participated in the Loyola Academy shootout and played in two NCAA live-period events at Riverside-Brookfield and Ridgewood high schools. York went 3-1 at the R-B shootout. “We probably played 25-26 games total,” Dunn said. “We have a lot of multi-sport kids compared other years, so we worked with their schedules. We had our ups and downs this summer but saw some really good things. And some stuff that we need to improve on. Overall, it was a good summer. The biggest thing for us is we saw daily improvement. I thought that was great. The kids continued to play
Leslie said she will miss plenty about IC Catholic Prep. “I will miss how close knit of a community it was,” she said. “I knew everybody at the school. It will be weird going on campus and not knowing all the faces. I’ll miss those close connections with the coaches and teachers. It will be weird for the first year or so.”
“ I’m really excited to be able to play volleyball in college. It gives me something to do. I feel like I would be so bored without it because it has been such a big part of my life.”
Dukes gain key experience on heels of large senior graduation
hard and played the way we like to play in terms of what York represents. Some kids were playing in new roles and guys got accustomed to playing varsity minutes for the first time in their careers. We played some good teams and that helped with our improvement.”
– Bella Leslie
Junior Hunter Stepanich and senior Connor Fitzgerald, Dunn said, enjoyed strong summers. “Hunter is 6-8 and is a three-sport athlete,” Dunn noted. “He’s a fantastic football player and was all-state in volleyball. We’ve asked him to score more production wise, and he played very well this summer. Connor Fitzgerald played spot minutes off the bench last year and I thought
he had a good summer. Those two guys played very well for us.”
Junior Costa Kampas also was notable, Dunn said. “Costa is a 6-5 kid who plays football and basketball, He could be a Division I football player,” he said. “He did good things this summer.”
Dunn said the Dukes will continue to gain footing throughout the upcoming 2024-2025 season. “We have some guys who have never played varsity minutes before,” he reiterated. “We are getting a feel and figuring out where we are at and who we are, and we’ll go from there.”
York opens the 2024-2025 season Nov. 25 at the Palatine tournament.
York girls basketball team goes 19-3 during summer Coach Collings impressed with youthful Dukes’ progress
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.
What a summer it was for the York girls basketball team. The Dukes, who return only two seniors this season, went 19-3 between summer league action and shootouts. Two of York’s three losses were to defending Class 4A state-champion Loyola Academy.
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.
“We have some new players and we had a great summer,” York coach Brandon Collings said. “We wanted to see how we would do and how we would come together with the new players. We did well. We’re young. We’re returning Anna Filosa, our leading scorer from last year, and Gabby Sutter is the other senior coming back. After that, everybody else who is coming back was a sophomore from last year or a new sophomore this year.”
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
• Stopka (Continued from page 18)
“All four played minutes for us last year and will be huge pieces to the puzzle moving forward this year. The experience they gained last year will be huge for them this year. All of them made big strides forward and I’m excited to see what they will do this season.”
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.”
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.”
our defense will lead to offense. We know we lost some big seniors in Hannah Meyers and Stella Kohl, but we’re confident our defense will get us going this year. Besides games against one or two teams, our quickness really showed this summer. I’m excited to see that this season and see us put even more pressure on teams than we have in the past.”
teams this season,” Collings said.
“As a program, as we continue to have nice years, we’re going to try and get those better teams on the schedule. We had a top-15-ranked schedule last year and this year will be another tough one where we challenge our girls.”
U12 baseball action
Collings said the West Suburban Conference Silver Division appears to be shaping up to be competitive as always. “Glenbard West
is returning the most and will be tough,” he said. “Lyons Township still has a top 50 recruit returning. Downers North lost seniors but will be kind of the same and Hinsdale Central has a new coach and some talent and could surprise people. Our conference, more so than other years, is wide open.”
recent U12 baseball game.
York opens the 2024-2025 season Nov. 18 hosting its own York Thanksgiving tournament.
Collings noted York had four sophomores up last year all of whom, he said, will play big roles this season. That group includes Olivia Silkaitis, who started every game on the varsity as a 10 th grader last year, Ellie Kehoe, Kayla Callahan and Amelie van Heukelum.
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 hell of a season if you ask me.”
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.
“All four played minutes for us last year and will be huge pieces to the puzzle moving forward this year,” he said. “The experience they gained last year will be huge for them this year. All of them made big strides forward and I’m excited to see what they will do this season.”
–Brandon Collings, York girls basketball coach
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.”
Collings with their efforts. “Both had great summers,” he said. “Briley stepped in as our point guard, and as a sophomore, she has a chance to be the best point guard in our conference this year. She had that good of a summer. I’m impressed.”
ble and transparent and communicate with everybody.”
“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
York also had two freshmen on the varsity last year in Avery Larma and Cate Carter. “Avery and Cate will help us as well,” Collings said. Current sophomores Briley O’Brian and Maggie Mikucki played with York this summer, impressing
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
Filosa, who averaged 13 points last year, and Silkaitis, are York’s two returning starters. “Besides Anna and Olivia, it’s kind of wide open and there for the taking this year,” Collings said. “I joked around that if you ask anybody in the conference who York has this year, they might say Anna and then they don’t know. That’s a good thing. Teams won’t be exactly sure about what to do against us because we have so many athletic players that have a lot of potential. We’re molding this thing together and we came out of the summer 19-3. We’re very excited about that. We didn’t necessarily expect 19-3, but we expected to be competitive. Let’s see how this carries over this season. And then the next few years with these younger girls, we should be tough.”
Junior Paige Byrne also played well. “Paige also had a really good summer,” Collings said. “We’re going to be very young. We’re not big. Our biggest players are Avery and Olivia, and they are 5-10. But what we are is athletic and quick. We’re going to look to defensively pressure full court at all times and push the ball. Our athleticism is going to be the game-changer, and
York played in the Montini summer league, the Lewis University shootout where it beat Chicago Whitney Young and Rockton Hononegah from the Rockford area. York also played in the Oak Lawn shootout where it logged a fifthsixth-place finish out of 32 teams. The Dukes also won their pool at the Batavia NCAA live-period shootout with a 3-1 mark.
“We played some tough teams this summer and will play tough
As far as the future, Stopka wants York competing at a high level on a consistent basis. “The short-term goal is to restock and build up the team,” he said. “A large portion of last year’s team was seniors, especially the starting 11. We have to make sure the now juniors are up to the speed of the varsity level and are ready to contribute. We want to keep that pipeline going with the younger groups of players. We want to make sure we are not only competitive, but that we are competing for regionals, sectionals and supersectionals. It starts for me with this junior class that is coming in. We want them ready to go and setting the standard for these other classes that come in so they can also contribute right off
proudly presents
YORK HIGH SCHOOL PLAYER OF THE WEEK
KYLE WALTZ
YORK BOYS BASKETBALL
Waltz, a 2024 York graduate and a 6-7 forward who played key roles on the Dukes boys basketball team, recently announced he is headed to continue his academic and basketball careers at NCAA Division I Miami University in Oxford, Ohio. Miami is a member of the Mid-American Conference along with Northern Illinois University.
CHRIS FOX PHOTO Elmhurst Independent
PUZZLE Page
SUDOKU
Fun by the Numbers
Like puzzles? Then you’ll love sudoku. This mind-bending puzzle will have you hooked from the moment you square off, so sharpen your pencil and put your sudoku savvy to the test! Here’s How
It Works: Sudoku puzzles are formatted as a 9x9 grid, broken down into nine 3x3 boxes. To solve a sudoku, the numbers 1 through 9 must fill each row, column and box. Each number can appear only once in each row, column and box. You can figure out the order in which the numbers will appear by using the numeric clues already provided in the boxes. The more numbers you name, the easier it gets to solve the puzzle!
CLUES ACROSS
1. Major American automaker (abbr.)
4. Pressure measurement
7. Two-year-old sheep
10. Indigenous person from Laos or Thailand
11. Up in the air (abbr.)
12. Actress de Armas
13. Not moving
15. Cool!
16. Bog arum genus
19. Perceptible by touch
21. Type of test
23. Monetary units
24. Collection of various things
25. Sum of five and one
26. Type of sword
27. Hates
30. Immobile
34. Pie _ _ mode
35. Moved quickly
36. Passenger’s place on a motorbike
41. A way through
45. Former US Secretary of Education Duncan
46. Leader
47. Flowing
50. Greetings
54. Remedy
55. Soft lightweight fabric
56. Building material
57. Sea bream
59. A way to cause to be swollen
60. One and only
61. People get one in summer
62. Wreath
63. Thus far
64. They __
65. Sea eagle
CLUES DOWN
1. Policemen (French)
2. Toy dog
3. Inflamed colon disease
4. Can’t move
5. Helps little firms
6. Lists of names, subjects, etc.
7. Takes down
8. Makes possible
9. Wife of Julius Constantius
13. Engine additive
14. Arctic explorers (abbr.)
17. Written account
18. Consumed
20. Something the first shall be
22. No (slang)
27. Gov’t lawyers
28. Peyton’s little brother
29. Small amount
31. Investment vehicle
32. Fall behind
33. Midway between northeast and east
37. Head pain
38. Popular sport in England and India
39. King Charles’s sister
40. Boat race
41. About fish
42. Maidservant
43. Able to be marketed
44. Tinier
47. Parts per billion (abbr.)
48. Paddle
4.9 Oneness
51. Bitter chemical
52. Not around
53. Very fast airplane
58. Swiss river ACHIEVEMENT
THRILLING TRAIL BLAZE
Elmhurst Public Library programs
Saturday, Aug. 10
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, Aug. 12
1:30-3:30 p.m.
Learn to Play Canasta
Learn how to play the classic card game Canasta, then practice together.
Live in-person. Registration with an Elmhurst Public Library card required.
Monday, Aug. 12 - 7-8 p.m.
“War of the Worlds” and Fake News
Learn about Orson Welles’ 1938 radio broadcast, the truth about the public’s response, and how it plays an important role in the way we present information today.
Live in-person and on Zoom. Registration required.
Tuesday, Aug. 13
Noon-2 p.m.
In Stitches Needleworkers Knitters, crocheters, and needleworkers, bring a work in progress, share knowledge with others, and have fun!
Live in-person. No registration required.
Tuesday, Aug. 13
3:30-4:30 p.m.
Bingo
Live in-person. Registration required.
Tuesday, Aug. 13
7-8 p.m.
Chicago and the Golden Age of Radio
Explore Chicago’s many contributions to radio, including soap operas, early morning radio shows, and the local legends that became national sensations.
Live in-person and on Zoom. Registration required.
Wednesday, Aug. 14
10 a.m.-1 p.m.
American mahjong: open play
Gather every Wednesday for American mahjong, a game of skill, strategy, calculation, and a certain amount of chance.
Live in-person. No registration required.
Wednesday, Aug. 14 7-8 p.m.
The Marx Brothers: A Legacy of Laughter
Film historian Dr. Annette Bochenek discusses the lives and legacies of the legendary Marx Brothers comedy team through photos, video clips, and captivating stories.
Live in-person and virtually on Zoom. Registration required.
Friday, Aug. 16
Join us for a few rounds of Bingo and compete for prizes!
2-4 p.m.
Friday Features: “The Bucket List”
Enjoy an afternoon at the movies. Find each week’s featured film at elmlib.org/Friday.
Elmhurst
FALL BASEBALL - and
SOFTBALL REGISTRATIONS
Youth Baseball & EYB Cougars Softball House League registration is NOW OPEN!
Register NOW to be a part of the fastest growing baseball & softball program in the Western Suburbs!
The Fall Baseball and Softball Leagues are a non-competitive league focused on training and player development. It is a 5 or 6 week program scheduled to start in September and conclude in October with all practices and games taking place on the weekends.
Games are scheduled for each Saturday with practice prior to each game. If there is a rain-out then the game/practice may be rescheduled for Sunday.
Elmhurst Youth Baseball is open to boys and girls ages 4 to 20. The EYB Cougars softball program is open to girls ages 4 to 18.
Fall ball allows for players to begin practicing and playing in divisions that they may qualify for in the following Spring season or to continue their development in the divisions they currently compete.
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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.
Furniture
AUTOMOBILES
Automobiles
Motorcycles
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.
FOR SALE: 2007 HARLEY DAVIDSON FLHTCU, full dress bagger, 96 cu.in., 6 speed, excellent condition, 13,000 miles on the clock. All stock with bag liners, tour pack rack & Garmin GPS. Includes motorcycle lift for winter storage. Buy it now in time for Sturgis. $8,500 OBO. 630-6241323; leave a voicemail.
PUBLISHER’S 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
Elmhurst (630) 834-8244 or Lombard (630) 627-7010
Katherine Rand (Awarding College: College of Nursing; Major: Nursing; Degree: Bachelor of Science in Nursing).
The University of Iowa’s 2024 spring graduates included more than 550 students who earned two degrees. The school’s graduates from Elmhurst who earned two degrees included: Charles Cripe (Awarding College: College of Liberal Arts and Sciences; Majors: Cinema and Screenwriting Arts); Daniel Klysh (Awarding College: Tippie College of Business; Majors: Marketing and Finance) and Johanna Kramer (Awarding College: College of Education and the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences; Majors: Music Education and Music).
• More than 7,650 undergraduate students at the University of Iowa were named to the Dean’s List for the 2024 spring semester. The honored students from Elmhurst included: Anisa Dominguez, Malen -
na Dominguez, Ethan Gruener, Ashley Harmon, Isabelle Hughes, Daniel Klysh, Hannah Kruczynski, Christopher Markuson, Caroline Marshall, Madeline McCarty, Owen Pechous, Colby Schreiter, Katie Sosa, Lauren Wagner, Emily Wegmann, Charles Wollensak and Justin Zellinger.
• Students who were named to the University of Iowa’s 2024 spring semester President’s List met all of the requirements for inclusion on the Dean’s List. The students from Elmhurst who earned President’s List honors included Skylar Radz (College: College of Liberal Arts and Sciences; Major: Political Science) and Katherine Rand (College: College of Nursing; Major: Nursing).
• The following students from Elmhurst were named to the University of Alabama’s Dean’s List (academic record of 3.5 or above) or President’s List (academic record of 4.0—all A’s) for the 2024 spring
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semester. The Elmhurst students named to the Dean’s List include: James Gracey, Angelina Nesti, Raemer Seaton, Patrick St. Clair and Ryan Veach. The Elmhurst students named to the President’s List include: Morgan Burnham, Connor Hess, Matthew Moore and Gianna Pretzie. Located in Tuscaloosa, the University of Alabama is the state’s flagship university.
• The University of Alabama’s spring 2024 graduates from Elmhurst included: Bradley Lynch (Bachelor of Science in Commerce & Business Administration), Angelina Nesti (Bachelor of Science in Human Environmental Sciences) and Raemer Seaton (Bachelor of Arts in Communication & Information Services). About 6,000 degrees were awarded during the University of Alabama’s spring 2024 commencement.
• Bradley University in Peoria named more than 1,700 students to its Dean’s List for the spring 2024
semester. The honored students from Elmhurst include: Avie Magner, Emma Rogers, Andrew Nicholson, John DeCicco, Nicole Farrow, Jennifer Schiliro of Elmhurst and Jacob Stramel. To be eligible for the Dean’s List, a full-time student must achieve a minimum 3.5 grade-point average for the semester on a 4.0 scale.
• Emily Mitchell of Elmhurst and Lauren Moore of Elmhurst both qualified for the spring 2024 College of Arts and Sciences Dean’s List at the University of Kentucky in Lexington. Students on the Dean’s List earned 12 ore more credit hours as letter grades with a minimum grade-point average of 3.6 for the semester. Mitchell was one of more than 660 students recognized by the University of Kentucky College of Arts and Sciences during commencement ceremonies in May. Mitchell earned a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology.
• Sebastian Edenhofer of Elmhurst was named to the Dean’s List for the spring semester of the 2023-24 academic year at Illinois Wesleyan University in Bloomington. Edenhofer is a business major. To qualify for the Dean’s List, students must earn a grade-point average of 3.5 or better.
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Michelle Garner, Lucia Gaviria, Calvin Greene, Yusrah Haswarey, Samuel Hatungimana, Evelyn Hickman, Justin Kollamana, Gianna Konieczny, Izabella Krolicki, Tam Le, Jacob Little, Fernando Lozada, Jorge Luis Garcia, Maria Marsico, Adam Montesantos, Dan Ngo, Caitlin Pettineo, Emily Ptak, Sameen Qureshi, Olivia Reamer, Micaela Rendon, Leo Rodriguez, Michael Schraut, Bahome Seraphin, Daniella Serpe, William Sherman, Efthymia Sidiropoulou, Thomas Smyth, Catherine Clare Songco, Ngoc Tran, Michael Treida, Kayla Tutunji, Varsha Zachariah and Lucia Zdenahlik.
• Cayliann Gillie of Elmhurst has been named to the Dean’s List for the Spring 2024 semester at Edgewood College in Madison, Wisconsin. Fulltime undergraduate and post-baccalaureate students who earn a cumulative grade-point average of 3.75 or higher are eligible for the Dean’s List after completing 24 credit hours of study at Edgewood College.
• Nicholas Parisi of Elmhurst was named to the University of Mississippi’s spring 2024 Honor Roll. Parisi, who is majoring in exercise science, was named to the Chancellor’s Honor Roll, which is reserved for students who earn a semester grade-point average of 3.75 to 4.0. The University of Mississippi, known as Ole Miss, is the state’s flagship university.
• Maya Valdez of Elmhurst has been named to the spring 2024 Dean’s List with Highest Honors at McDaniel College in Westminster, Maryland. Highest honors are earned for a semester grade-point average of 3.9 or higher.
• Cecilia Lampa of Elmhurst earned Dean’s List honors for the spring 2024 semester at Emerson College in Boston. The requirement to make the Dean’s List is achieving a grade-point average of 3.7 or higher for that semester. Lampa, a member of the school’s Class of 2024, is majoring in Musical Theatre.
• Bridget Whiteside of Elmhurst was named to the Dean’s List for the spring 2024 semester at Washington College in Chestertown, Maryland. In order to earn the honor, a student must achieve a gradepoint average of at least 3.5 for the semester.
• Over 975 Elmhurst University students were named to the spring 2024 Dean’s List. The Dean’s List is composed of students who attained a grade-point average of 3.75 or higher (out of a possible 4.0) during the semester. The honored students from Elmhurst included: Piper Abbott-Phillips, Sandra Alfonso Quignon, Talia Alfonso Quignon, Cristopher Baez-Morales, Noah Balice, Marshall Bell, Kaseyleen Bernardo, Asad Butt, Dominick Carillo, Fiona Carruth, John Chirayil, Danil Denha, Riley Edenhofer, George Estephan,
• Three students from Elmhurst were named to the President’s List for the spring 2024 semester at Trine University in Angola, Indiana. To earn President’s List honors, students must complete a minimum of 12 hours and have a gradepoint average of 3.75 to 4.0. The honored students from Elmhurst included: Benita Alex (majoring in Exercise Science-Pre Physical Therapy), Charles Casey (majoring in Mechanical Engineering) and Nathan Sedlacek (majoring in Biology/Pre-Physician Assistant Program).
• Elisabeth Wendel of Elmhurst was named to the spring 2024 Dean’s List at Cedarville University in Cedarville, Ohio. This recognition requires a student to obtain a grade-point average of 3.5 or higher for the semester while carrying a minimum of 12 credit hours.
• The following students from Elmhurst were named to the Dean’s List at the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater for the 2024 spring semester: Alexis Burns, Grace Conley, Kyle Freeman, Luke LaMorte, Cassie Lee, Colin Lewandowski and Maya Rebic. These students earned Dean’s List recognition by having a grade-point average of 3.4 or higher during the semester.
• Will Siegenthaler of Elmhurst has been named to the 2024 spring semester Dean’s List at Ohio Wesleyan University in Delaware, Ohio. To earn Dean’s List recognition, Ohio Wesleyan students must achieve a grade-point average of 3.5 or better on a 4.0 scale in all applicable classes.
• Max Hansmann of Elmhurst was named to the Dean’s List for the spring 2024 semester at the University of Evansville in Evansville, Indiana. Students at the University of Evansville are named to the Dean’s List every fall and spring semester. To merit the honor of being placed on the Dean’s List, a student must have carried a full academic load of at least 12 hours and earned a grade-point average of 3.5 or above.
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