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10th annual ‘Cue for a Cause deemed a success

Perfect weather brings out a plethora of grillers and hungry patrons

By Dee Longfellow

FOR THE ELMHURST INDEPENDENT

Sunday, Sept. 1 couldn’t have been better in terms of the weather for a giant, glorious outdoor barbecue—and that’s exactly what took place at York and Vallette when competitors rolled out their grills for the 10th annual ‘Cue for a Cause to benefit the Elmhurst Walk-in Assistance Network (EWAN).

While teams work to prove they are the masters of the backyard grill, attendees at this family friendly event cheer them on, enjoy live music, raffles, entertainment, kids activities, good food and drink.

There was a silent auction, a root beer float stand, a giant slide for the kids along with face-painting and craft projects, live music all day long and Jim Lawshe’s Barbecue available for purchase. Judges from the community sat inside the Knights of Columbus, where they were presented with rib portions that they judged on appearance, flavor, sauce and overall deliciousness.

Part of this year’s festivities included a contest to “out-grill” the man considered the best in town—Jim Lawshe of Jim’s Barbecue. Competitors were invited to participate, and those who did were judged by four outstanding citizens who knew their way around a rib! Judges of the event were Dan Gibbons of the Dan Gibbons Turkey Trot; Jack Island, former owner of Silverado Grill; Elmhurst Alderman Brian Cahill and Elmhurst resident Jim Capannari, owner of Capannari’s ice cream and catering.

Winners

The top winner of the Beat Barbeque Jim’s Contest was the Smokin’ Tailgators team led by Steve Deboer. Also beating Jim was Haber ‘Cue led by Joel Haberkorn; tying with Jim was Big Ten BBQ led by Joey Calcagno. Grand champion:

The grand champion winner of the 2024 ‘Cue for a Cause was Hall Hog BBQ, led by Mike Hall. Grand Champion runner-up was 2 K’s and a Q, led by Moira Kinsella.

Other winners were: Best ribs:

First place: Hall Hog BBQ led by Mike Hall

Second place: Champion Oaks led by John Malysiak

Third place: Smoke. Eat. Repeat led by Jonathon Rowe

Best sauce (chosen by judges):

First place: Hall Hog BBQ led by Mike Hall

Second place: 2 K’s and a Q led by Moira Kinsella

Third place: Smokin’ Tailgators led by Steve Deboer

See CAUSE, Page 19

This year’s ‘Cue for a Cause, the annual fundraiser for the Elmhurst Walk-in Assistance Network (EWAN), included a contest to “outgrill” the man considered the best in town—Jim Lawshe of Barbecue Jim’s. Special celebrity judges of the event were (above right - from left): Dan Gibbons of the Dan Gibbons Turkey Trot and Foundation; Jack Island, former owner of Silverado Grill; Elmhurst Alderman Brian Cahill and Elmhurst resident Jim Capannari, owner of Capannari’s ice cream and catering. Standing is EWAN executive director Jackie Crnkovich, who not only directed the judging, but oversaw the entire event from start to finish. In another photo (above left), this youngster plays Jenga, which was just one of the many games and activities for kids at ‘Cue for a Cause. It was a bright sunny day with reasonable summer temperatures, which brought out the crowds who love barbecue. More photos inside this issue.

Elmhurst Craft Beer Fest takes place Sept. 14

The Fest will feature top area brews, live music, and more

Featuring craft beer, cider, mead, and seltzers from nearly 50 brewers, the 9th Annual Elmhurst Craft Beer Fest will make its return Saturday, Sept. 14 from 2 – 6 p.m. on the stunning grounds of the Elmhurst History Museum, 120 East Park Ave. The fest is hosted by the Elmhurst Heritage Foundation, the nonprofit fundraising arm for the Elmhurst History

Museum and proceeds benefit the educational programs and exhibits for the museum and the Churchville School House. Beer novices and aficionados alike will be able to enjoy a variety of brews from renowned brewers, many of which are from Elmhurst, including Elmhurst Brewing, Phase Three Brewing and Bottle Theory, and others, such as Pipeworks Brewing Co.,

Goldfinger, Tighthead and One Lake Brewing. Brewer 93 Octane will bring its “93 Draft Truck” sharing thirst quenching brews from a restored 1941 pickup truck. There are 11 new breweries participating, each bringing two or three of their finest products to share with the thirsty crowd. Fest attendees get a chance to relax while sampling their favorite beverage while Lake Effect and new-

comer Live Stream will perform on the music stage throughout the afternoon. Golden Boy Barbeque a new business in Elmhurst, is the exclusive Fest food vendor. They provide mouthwatering Texas barbeque for fest attendees to purchase.

Elmhurst Craft Beer Fest tickets may be purchased at www.elmhurstcraftbeerfest.com. Admission tickets are $55 and $70 for VIP entry. Tick-

ets include a 3 oz. commemorative tasting glass, 18 drink tickets, live music, and light snacks. Designated driver tickets are $20. The first 200 attendees to arrive will also receive a $5 City Centre gift card that may be used after the fest in Elmhurst City Center restaurants.

For additional information on the Elmhurst Craft Beer Fest, please visit elmhurstcraftbeerfest.com.

The Elmhurst Craft Beer Fest will take place on

E. Park Ave. in Elmhurst. This year’s fest will

vendors. Admission tickets are $55, while VIP

purchased online at www.elmhurstcraftbeerfest.com.

SUBMITTED

PHOTO Elmhurst Independent

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Spring Road Business Association holds food drive on Sept. 14

As part of its “We Care” initiative of coming together as a community to help, the Spring Road Business Association (SRBA) will be holding a Food Drive during our Fall Fest event to help local community members in need.

You can pick up a brown bag at any of the following businesses: Alan Energy Services, Berkshire Hathaway Prairie Path Realtors, Community Bank of Elmhurst (Butterfield Location Only), DeVries Animal Hospital, Great American Exteriors, Lezza Bakery, My Car Wash, Phillip’s Flowers, Roberto’s Ristorante and Total Window Treatments.

To drop off your donation, you can bring your brown bag filled with food to the Spring Road Fall Fest event on Saturday, Sept. 14, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. The SRBA will have a truck from the Elmhurst-Yorkfield Food Pantry on site to take the donations to the pantry. For more information go to: SpringRoad.Com/we-care/.

Here is a list of the most needed items to donate: canned chicken, canned salmon, mixed vegetables, canned peas, refried beans, dry black beans, dry kidney beans, cream of chicken soup, instant oatmeal, Frosted Flakes, Honey Nut Cheerios, and strawberry jelly. The SRBA thanks Jewel and Trader Joe’s for donating the shopping bags for its community food drive.

Extra protection for a member of the Elmhurst Police Department

Tommy is the Elmhurst Police Department’s newest police K9, and until last week, he did not have his own ballistic protective vest. Thanks to a gracious donation from the membership of the Elmhurst Citizens Police Academy Alumni Association, Tommy received a brand new fitted vest to protect him when he goes into danger. Tommy and Officer Jason Giesel showed off the new vest at the alumni association’s Sept. 5 meeting. The Elmhurst Police Department thanks the alumni association for its donation and its partnership in serving the community.

ARRA rocks the block

ARRA,

beer and wine tent, arts and crafts, a face-painter, a photo booth and games for kids. Shown here is Kevin Conner, ARRA lead guitarist and one of the band’s founding members.

SUBMITTED PHOTOS Elmhurst Independent

MIKE SANDROLINI PHOTO Elmhurst Independent

one of the most popular bands in the area which has been together for 35 years, belted out classic rock favorites Saturday evening as part of the two-day Rock the Block party held Friday and Saturday at the Elmhurst City Centre. The event not only featured live entertainment, but also local food vendors, a

Rebuilding DuPage County: Road and bridge projects highlight historic construction season

Highlighting one of its busiest construction seasons ever, the Illinois Department of Transportation has announced that major projects in DuPage County are planned or underway, fueled by Gov. JB Pritzker’s bipartisan Rebuild Illinois capital program. Seven projects combined represent a total investment of $74 million, im-

proving safety and mobility while sustaining and creating good-paying jobs throughout the region.

“Rebuild Illinois is revitalizing communities and neighborhoods by investing in projects and people in DuPage County and throughout the state,” said Pritzker. “Through the largest capital program in state

history, IDOT will be delivering improvements to build a more resilient, accessible and equitable system of transportation for generations to come, while creating jobs and enhancing local quality of life.”

Of the seven major projects in DuPage County, one is scheduled to be completed in 2024 and the re-

maining six are anticipated to be completed from 2025 through 2026.

• Illinois 53 (Columbine Avenue) over Great Western Trail south of North Avenue (Illinois 64) includes new bridge deck construction, bridge beam replacement and repair. One lane will be maintained in each direction. The project began in spring 2023 and is anticipated to be complete this fall.

• Irving Park Road (Illinois 19) from west of Mitchell Boulevard to Roselle Road resurfacing also includes new shoulders and ADA-compliant sidewalk ramps. Daytime lane closures are needed to complete con-

struction. The project is anticipated to begin summer 2025 and estimated to be complete fall 2025.

• Irving Park Road from Roselle Road to Baker Drive resurfacing with new shoulders and ADA-compliant sidewalk ramps. Daytime lane closures are needed to complete construction. The project is anticipated to begin summer 2025 and estimated to be complete fall 2025.

• Illinois 56 (Butterfield Road) from just west of Illinois 53 to southbound Interstate 355 (Veterans Memorial Tollway) includes intersecSee PROJECTS, Page 13

Fr. McDonald Council #1911 Knights of Columbus “..serving the Elmhurst community since 1918..”

Elmhurst Knights of Columbus Giving Month Concludes with Oktoberfest on September 21st.

If you missed the Tootsie Roll Drive, you can still help us reach our goal of $40,000. The money benefits local individuals with intellectual disabilities. Scan to see how YOUR family can help us reach our goal!!

Raising Money to help individuals with intellectual disabilities by supporting these Organizations:

Join Us on September 21 st to Celebrate

Party starts at 5pm with food served at 6pm (1 Brat, 2 Sides, Beer and Dessert $25) Featuring Strudel from Kuppie’s Bakery (Villa Park)

Come dance with the Chicago Big Band from 6pm to 9pm! Location: 537 S. York St., Elmhurst

For additional information on any of these events as well as donations toward Charities with Intellectual Disabilities, please visit: WWW.ELMHURST1911KOFC.ORG

Police beat

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

Assault, battery

Sept. 3

Henry Ponder, 48, of Chicago, was charged with attempted aggravated assault of an officer and disorderly conduct in the 200 block of E. Butterfield at 9:46 p.m. Police said the suspect made threatening statements towards the cashier and threatened the responding officer before being taken into custody.

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

Sept. 4

Joseph Hussar, 46, of Elmhurst, was issued citations for assault and disorderly conduct in the 100 block of N. Addison at 6:08 p.m. According to police, a victim related he was in the locker room at the above location when the suspect confronted him, yelling and deliberately bumping into him.

A complainant in the 400 block of E. Huntington reported at 2 a.m. that her partner had been in a heated argument with a co-worker. Both subjects were separated, and one agreed to leave the scene.

A victim in the 900 block of S. Riverside reported at 11:12 p.m. that a suspect attempted to check into their hotel but became upset when told he needed to pay a deposit. The suspect then started screaming and threw items from his bag in the hotel lobby, causing a disturbance. He was subsequently served with a no trespass notice.

Aug. 31

A complainant in the 200 block of N. Third reported at 2:12 a.m. that her husband grabbed her and threw her phone. The complainant’s husband related he spit at the complainant as she was hitting him. No arrests were made.

DUI, consumption of alcohol by a minor

Sept. 1

Kevin Barradas, Periane, 19, of McHenry, was charged with DUI while under the age of 21, improper lane usage and consumption of alcohol by a minor subsequent to a traffic stop near Route 83 and Roosevelt at 4 a.m.

Remy Boudreaux, 28, of Downers Grove, was charged with DUI, improper lane usage, failure to signal when required and no insurance after a traffic stop near North and Michigan at 12:09 a.m.

Miguel Villalobos, 54, of Bensenville, was charged with DUI, possession of a controlled substance, improper lane usage and no insurance near Route 83 and North at 11:03 p.m.

Aug. 31

Robert Balthazar, 49, of Chicago, was charged with DUI, failure to signal, driving on the wrong side of a two-lane road and an improper turn subsequent to a traffic stop near Armitage and West at 3:02 a.m.

Jesse Barrera, 25, of Stone Park, was charged with DUI and no insurance in the 500 block of W. North at 2:40 a.m.

Carolyn Millan, 56, of Elmhurst, was

charged with DUI-drugs, resisting a police officer, illegal transportation of open alcohol and failure to dim headlights subsequent to a traffic stop near York and Palmer at 12:10 a.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 two incidents of identity theft or fraud.

Possession of cannabis in a vehicle

According to information provided by the Elmhurst Police Department, police reported two incidents of possession of cannabis by either the driver of a vehicle or a passenger: Luis Sanchez, 20, of Chicago, near York and Fullerton at 3 p.m. Aug. 30; and Edward Gobber, 21, of Elmhurst, at a park in the 300 block of W. Commonwealth at 12:04 a.m. Aug. 31.

Suspicious incident

Sept. 3

A victim in the 900 block of S. Riverside reported at 5:43 a.m. that she woke to find a suspect described as a black male kissing her. The victim first encountered the suspect at a Villa Park store. The incident was referred to the Villa Park Police Department.

Sept. 1

A complainant in the 600 block of W. Alexander reported a suspect was attempting to break in to his residence. Officers located the suspect outside of the residence., who stated he was attempting to check on his ex-girlfriend. The complainant did not wish to pursue the matter any further and wanted the suspect trespassed from the property. The suspect was served with a no-trespass notice and released from the scene.

Warrant arrest

Aug. 31

Police said that subsequent to a traffic stop for suspended registration near North and West at 7:32 p.m., Denny Diaz Chirino, 20, of Arlington Heights, was found to have an active warrant out of Cook County. Diaz Chirino was charged with suspended registration. Police said that subsequent to a traffic stop near Industrial and York at 8:28 a.m., Carlos Morales, 24, of Des Plaines, was found to be driving while license suspended and was found to have two valid warrants out of DuPage County. He was charged with driving while license suspended and no seat belt.

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

Aug. 31-Sept. 1

A victim in the 500 block of S. York reported his motorcycle was stolen while it was parked at the above location sometime between the above dates.

Aug. 30

Joseph Payne, 68, of Villa Park, was issued citations for obstructing a police officer and no seat beat subsequent to a traffic stop in the 600 block

of N. York at 2:18 p.m. Police said Payne repeatedly refused to comply with officer’s commands.

Aug. 29

Antiwone Rudd, 41, of Sauk Village, was charged with burglary and retail theft after he allegedly took two cartons of cigarettes from a gas station in the 200 block of E. Butterfield at about 4 p.m. on Aug. 21. A complainant related that an unknown male suspect took two cartons of cigarettes, ran from the store and entered a vehicle that headed eastbound on Butterfield. After conducting an investigation, police arrested Rudd on Aug. 29. Rudd was transported to the DuPage County Jail.

Court grants state’s motion to deny pre-trial release for Lombard man charged with hate crime

DuPage County State’s Attorney Robert Berlin and Lombard Chief of Police Tom Wirsing have announced that Judge Demetrios Panoushis granted the state’s motion to deny pre-trial release for a Lombard man charged with yelling racial slurs and displaying a BB gun at a Lombard Park District facility.

Carl Walsh, 35, appeared at First Appearance Court and was charged with one count of hate crime—public park or community center, a Class 3 felony, and one count of misdemeanor disorderly conduct.

On Sept. 1, the victim and four other individuals were gathered at the park near the Lombard Lagoon. It is alleged that while the group was at the park, an individual, later identified as Walsh, blew a whistle, screamed racial slurs and “white power” and gave a Nazi salute, all directed at the victim.

It is further alleged that Walsh then lifted up his shirt and began waving around a gun, at which time the group left and called the Lom-

bard Police Department. Officers with the Lombard Police Department responded to the park and eventually made contact with Walsh at his home near the park.

When officers ordered Walsh out of his home, he was allegedly found with a BB gun on his person. He was taken into custody at that time.

“While DuPage County is a welcoming community, we do not tolerate or welcome the type of behavior alleged against Mr. Walsh,” Berlin said.

“Hate crimes have no place in a civilized society and together we must reject this type of behavior whenever we see it. I commend the Lombard Police Department for their quick identification and apprehension of the defendant in this case.”

“I would like to commend the quick actions and hard work of our officers,” Wirsing said. “This behavior will not be tolerated in our community. I also would like to thank DuPage County State’s Attorney Bob Berlin and his staff for their assistance on this case.”

Walsh’s next court appearance is scheduled for Sept. 30, for arraignment in front of Judge Margaret O’Connell.

Court grants state’s motion to deny pre-trial release for Streamwood man charged with sexually assaulting 1-year-old girl

DuPage County State’s Attorney Robert Berlin, Hanover Park Chief of Police Andrew Johnson and Homeland Security Investigations Chicago Special Agent in Charge Sean Fitzgerald have announced that Judge Joshua Dieden granted the state’s motion to deny pretrial release for a Streamwood man accused of sexually assaulting a 1-year-old girl.

Cruz Estanislao, 24, appeared at First Appearance Court and was charged with four counts of predatory criminal sexual assault—victim under 13 (Class X felony), one count of Class X child pornography and one count of Class 1 child pornography.

On Aug. 19, a Special Agent with the Department of Homeland Security Cyber Crimes Center Child Exploitation Investigations Unit (Unit) received information regarding suspected manufacture of child pornography on the “Wickr” application under the name “allfun2023.”

Through the course of an investigation conducted by the unit and the Hanover Park Police Department, Estanislao was identified as a suspect.

It is alleged that when Estanislao manufactured the child pornography, he sexually assaulted a female family member who was approximately one year old at the time. It is further alleged that between February and April 2023, Estanislao

shared those videos on the “Wickr” application.

On Aug. 29, special agents with the Department of Homeland Security took Estanislao into custody after a vehicle he was traveling in was stopped by local police.

“In my 37 years as a prosecutor, I can honestly say that I have never seen anything as unconscionable as the allegations against Mr. Estanislao,” Berlin said. “I am at a loss for words to describe how disturbing I find the videos allegedly produced by the defendant. Child pornography is not a victimless crime, and this case further cements that belief.

“I commend the Department of Homeland Security Cyber Crimes Center Child Exploitation Investigations Unit for their tremendous efforts in this case and their continued dedication to protecting these young, innocent victims and their families. I sincerely thank the Hanover Park Police Department for their work as well on this extremely disturbing case.”

“The Hanover Park Police Department was pleased to assist Homeland Security with this case, in which they did tremendous work in bringing this individual to justice,” Johnson said. “We remain committed to collaborating with all of our law enforcement partners, state, local, and national, to protect victims and hold those who would victimize the innocent accountable.”

Estanislao’s next court date is scheduled for Sept. 23 for arraignment in front of Judge Margaret O’Connell.

Carl Walsh

Cruz Estanislao

Court grants state’s motion to detain pre-trial Chicago man accused of road rage shooting

DuPage County State’s Attorney

Robert Berlin and Director of the Illinois State Police

Brendan Kelly have announced that Judge Demetrios Panoushis has granted the state’s motion to deny pre-trial release for a Chicago man accused of opening fire on another automobile.

Nicholas Ortiz, 24, appeared in First Appearance Court and was charged with one count of aggravated discharge of a firearm at a person or vehicle (Class 1 felony).

On Aug. 31 at approximately 7:23 p.m., the victim was driving his 2022

Kia Sorento northbound on I-55 in the center lane. It is alleged that as the victim merged into the left lane, Ortiz, who was driving in the left lane, approached the victim at a high rate of speed.

It is alleged that Ortiz, who was driving a 2023 Kia Telluride, took an evasive maneuver to avoid a crash and drove on the shoulder. It is further alleged that Ortiz reentered the left lane, positioned himself behind the victim and near mile post 374 near Cass Avenue, fired three rounds from a Glock 43 through his own windshield at the victim’s car, striking the vehicle twice.

It is alleged that after the shooting, the victim exited I-55 in Burr Ridge and Ortiz continued to follow him. It is further alleged that as Ortiz followed the

victim, he called 911 and reported that the victim had tried to run him off the road.

After receiving the 911 call, Burr Ridge Police stopped both Ortiz and the victim at County Line Road and the entrance to I-55. It is further alleged that officers recovered a loaded Glock 43 on the passenger seat of Ortiz’s vehicle under a backpack.

“The outrageous conduct alleged against Mr. Ortiz is extremely serious and will not be tolerated in DuPage County,” Berlin said. “In addition to allegedly shooting at another motorist, Mr. Ortiz’s alleged actions not only endangered the life of the victim as well as his own life, but also the lives of the motoring public.

“Thankfully, no one was injured or

Court grants state’s motion to deny pre-trial release for two Cook County men charged with weapons/drug offenses

DuPage County State’s Attorney Robert Berlin, Elmhurst Chief of Police Michael McLean and Wood Dale Chief of Police Chris Zito have announced that the court has granted the state’s motion to detain two Cook County men charged with weapons and drug offenses in separate incidents.

Larry Adams, 34, of Streamwood, appeared in First Appearance Court before Judge Joshua Dieden and was charged with one count of armed habitual criminal (Class X felony), one count of aggravated unlawful use of a weapon (Class 4 felony), one count of possession of cannabis—more than 100 grams less than 500 grams (Class 4 felony) and one count of misdemeanor DUI.

On Sept. 1, David Salinas, 31, of Chicago, appeared in First Appearance Court in front of Judge Demetrios Panoushis and was charged with two counts of aggravated unlawful use of a weapon (one Class 2 felony and one Class 4 felony) and one count of possession of a controlled substance (Class 4 felony).

On Sept. 2, Elmhurst police officers on patrol received information regarding a 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee driving erratically. At approximately 9:01 p.m., an officer observed the Jeep, allegedly driven by Adams, near North Avenue and York Street where it allegedly made an illegal left turn out of a parking lot onto eastbound North Avenue.

The officer conducted a traffic stop and allegedly observed Adams with bloodshot eyes and a strong odor of alcohol on his breath. It is alleged that the officer also observed a loaded “ghost gun” Polymer 80/PF-9400 handgun with one bullet in the chamber and a thirty-round magazine in plain view on the front passenger seat. It is further alleged that 133 grams of cannabis was found in two baggies on the rear passenger seat of the Jeep. Adams was taken into custody at this time.

On Aug. 31 at approximately 4:20 p.m., a Wood Dale police officer on patrol observed a Ford F-150 parked at a liquor store. It is alleged that a male, later identified as Salinas, was standing on the passenger side of the truck in the parking lot snorting a line of cocaine off of his hand. A short time later, the

officer conducted a traffic stop on the Ford, in which Salinas was a passenger, for allegedly disobeying a stop sign.

It is alleged that as the officer spoke to Salinas outside the Ford, the officer observed a loaded Taurus 9mm handgun with seven rounds in the magazine

in Salinas’ right pant pocket. Salinas, who is a convicted felon, was taken into custody at this time. It is further alleged that officers found approximately .7 grams of cocaine in a plastic baggy in Salinas’ wallet at the time of his arrest.

“As evidenced by these two arrests, law enforcement throughout DuPage County remains vigilant and pro-active in their efforts and commitment to public safety,” Berlin said. “Due to their criminal history, neither of these defendants is legally allowed to possess a gun and thanks to the efforts of the Elmhurst and Wood Dale police departments, there are two less illegal

See OFFENSES, Page 21

worse, as a result of Mr. Ortiz’s alleged actions. I would like to remind the public that if you find yourself involved in a traffic altercation, stay calm and don’t let your emotions get the better of you and if necessary, call 9-1-1. I thank the Illinois State Police as well as the Burr Ridge Police Department for their efforts on this case.”

“Dangerous and potentially deadly

acts of firearm violence on our interstates will not go unanswered by the Illinois State Police or our local law enforcement partners,” said Kelly. “The ISP appreciates the swift and decisive action by State’s Attorney Berlin and his team charging this case.” Ortiz’s next court appearance is scheduled for Sept. 23 in front of Judge Joseph Bugos.

Nicholas Oritz

Larry Adams David Salinas

Slices of life

Back to the babies

We all started out in the same way. As babies. But what would it be like to go back?

Imagine being a baby.

I’ve thought about this a few times, while watching my grands navigate their way through this world. I imagine myself in their tiny tottering shoes - or bodies, so to speak.

And I realize, with what I know now, it wouldn’t be easy to be a baby again. The dust bunnies themselves could prove formidable.

But beyond that, living a toddler-sized life on an adult-sized planet might be frustrating. And intimidating. Overwhelming. And scary.

Babies are helpless, powerless, weak and vulnerable. The routine of their days revolves around being hungry, sleepy and wet.

It could be a poopy time of life, and it is, but it isn’t. Because babies are born optimists. For them, it comes naturally—both pooping and optimism. The glass and the diaper are both half full, so to speak.

They allow us to pick them up, trusting that we won’t drop them on the floor.

They cry, hoping we will answer their call.

They smile, knowing their charm, while young and new, is one of their best assets.

They coo and laugh and when we coo and laugh back at them, they coo and laugh some more.

They wrap their tiny hands around our finger, understanding that human connections are something to hang onto.

We introduce new foods and they open their mouths to accept the green beans because they trust us.

We dress them each day, and they don’t give a thought the the idea they might be too cold or too hot.

They naturally give eye contact because it’s the best way to connect with others.

They imitate our vocalizations because it seems important, and they want to be like us.

They imitate us in general, because they realize it is what they need to do to fit in and learn the ways of the world.

They reach their arms out to us, because they trust we will pick them

up.

By JILL PERTLER Columnist

We strap them into a carseat. It’s uncomfortable, but they trust that we know what we are doing and where we are going (even though this often isn’t the case).

When they are learning to talk their first words are often “dada” and “mama” because they need those people the most.

When they learn to walk, they take their first steps toward us.

Reaching out for our protective hug. For our clapping hands and for our approval.

In some ways, for me, the whole walking analogy correlates to the rest of life. Babies learn to walk, reaching their arms toward you, and then soon, they learn they can balance on their own and they turn away to walk and run, and skip and hop all on their own.

In some ways, as soon as they learn to walk, they begin walking away.

And that is exactly how it is meant to be.

We are gifted with babies. They are born helpless and hapless. In the best of circumstances, they learn they can count on others.

They learn to trust in us.

And then they learn to walk and run and to trust in themselves.

They grow up and grow away and is is what you wanted and what you dreaded all in the same sentence.

It doesn’t end there. Because babies go from being helpless and hapless to being self-sufficient and secure and then they have babies of their own. And when your babies have babies?

That, my friends, is what it is all about.

Insider fact: it’s pretty amazing. 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.

Program’s aim: Make LGBTQ+ seniors safe in Illinois when seeking help

By Carolyn Austin

A new statefunded program will help older Illinoisans feel more comfortable and more confident they can openly and safely be who they are, at a time when violence and abuse are growing.

OUTSafe: The LGBTQ+ Older Adult Violence Prevention Training Program is a partnership between the state and agencies serving seniors across Illinois to extend a warmer welcome to LGBTQ+ seniors by helping service providers better understand and meet their needs as they age.

They point to examples like one central Illinois man, who struggled as he moved into a long-term care facility.

“When he moved into that community, he had to go back in the closet for fear of retaliation or discrimination,” said my colleague, Scott Linde, one of the OUTSafe training program’s developers. “And he lived there for six years as a straight man. And thank goodness his daughter bought a duplex and she let him move in on the other side. So he escaped that.”

He’s far from alone.

The U.S. Department of Justice reports hate crimes based on sexual orientation in Illinois increased by almost seven times from 2020 to 2022, and hate crimes based on gender identity increased by more than four times during that period. Nearly 5 percent of Illinois’ population is LGBTQ+, but exact numbers on the senior population is unclear because many fear they will be treated differently as they leave their homes for assisted care. Emotional abuse, financial exploitation, and physical abuse are among the most common concerns.

OUTSafe aims to take the issue head on. The program was developed by our organization, AgeLinc, the Area Agency on Aging for Lincolnland serving central Illinois, and a number of partners who serve LGBTQ+ seniors. A state grant through the Illinois Criminal Justice Information Authority was championed by state Sen. Doris Turner, D-Springfield.

OUTSafe offers free competency and sensitivity training to law enforcement, health care, social service, and other providers who engage with LGBTQ+ seniors. They learn about the most appropriate way to address terms and language unique

Letter to the editor

to the community, and how to provide assurances these older adults will be safe, supported and respected when they are seeking help.

The training is intended to be an introductory course on violence prevention and cultural competency, and we are reaching out statewide now to agencies that might be interested in helping us train hundreds of workers in the coming months. Our goal is simple, because we know embracing and supporting LGBTQ+ seniors is easier today than in the past. But we must be clear: It might be easier, yet it is not easy. They have very understandable fear and anxiety about what comes next when they are out.

We hope the training helps raise public awareness of the unique needs of LGBTQ+ seniors, so they no longer have to feel victimized or invisible like the central Illinois man who was part of our local PrideLinc group before he felt pressured to be someone he is not. We cannot sit silently any longer.

We encourage anyone interested in our training to learn more at: https:// agelinc.org/lgbt-support/

Carolyn Austin is CEO of AgeLinc (Area Agency on Aging for Lincolnland) in Springfield.

Thanks for a great season at East End Pool

Dear Editor, Maybe working four winters freezing ice rinks and three summers in maintenance for the Elmhurst Park District and naming Pioneer Park back in 1974 makes me biased, but we have an awesome park organization here. It was another stellar summer at East End Pool. The four guest passes given to season pass holders was appreciated and used often. I know of several guests whose eyes were opened to what a great facility East End is. I hope the guest passes will be part of next year’s program.

The staff continued to prove themselves to be attentive, safety oriented and helpful in all pool matters.

Swim lessons for even the youngest of swimmers were well run and throughout the days I saw more parents than ever introducing their young tots to the East End waters. Pool neighbors told me how popular the Middle School Teen Nights were. Perhaps next year, there could be a couple of Adult Swim Nights for those over the age of twenty-one. Also, Smalley Pool rented cabanas for patron parties this year, maybe some of those can be brought too

East End Pool.

The number of my summer family members of daily swimmers increased as our socializing and exercising made the days fly by. The environment is so relaxed, anyone can become friends with strangers in a matter of minutes. Now that the swim season is over, we have eight and a half months until next season. I’ve emailed the EPD a few minor suggestions for 2025 and know they’ll consider that input. Thanks again for a fine season. Mick Kahler

Elmhurst

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. Engine additive

4. A type of test

8. Curtail

10. Irish surname

11. The opposite of good

12. Got rid of

13. Central parts of a church building

15. Stylistically

16. Intestinal

17. Negative potential outcomes

18. Lived up to a standard

21. Snag

22. Time units (abbr.)

23. Ad __

24. “Partridge” actress Susan

25. For each

26. __ Paulo, city

27. League titles

34. More intensely black

35. Slang for lovely

36. Petrarch is known for them

37. Old Eurasian wheat

38. Body part

39. Swedish rock group

40. They’re worth avoiding

41. Rising and falling of the voice

42. Wings

43. Enzyme import for respiration

CLUES DOWN

1. Idyllic

2. South Pacific island nations

3. Shrub of the olive family

4. Boundaries

5. Encircle

6. Weights

7. Samberg is one

9. Sheep sound

10. European country

12. Respected group of people

14. Trigraph

15. Prosecutors

17. Assign a nickname

19. Huge size

20. Partner to cheese

23. Fastballs

24. Principle underlying the universe

25. Distinct units of sound

26. Title of respect

27. Against

28. Foot (Latin)

29. One point east of due south

30. Concerning the blood

31. Type of pentameter

32. North American peoples

33. Layers of rock

34. Georges __, French philosopher

36. Lengthy tale

Real eS tate/BuSineSS

IC Catholic Prep announces 2029 Strategic Plan, and The Capital Campaign: Legacy of Excellence: Learning, Leading, and Serving

IC Catholic Prep (ICCP) is excited to announce its completion of the 2029 Strategic Plan. This document, created with the support of our parish leadership, Board of Directors, faculty, staff, and community, outlines our goals for the next five years.

We’ve created pillars that are aligned with our mission, vision, and values, to ensure our academic programming, student experiences,

• Projects

campus, climate, enrollment, financial wellness, campus infrastructure, and alumni engagement all drive the future success of our students and school.

At ICCP, we recognize that our campus infrastructure plays a vital role in providing an exceptional student experience. We are committed to improving our campus facilities, enhancing our technological capa-

bilities, ensuring our physical environment aligns with the needs and aspirations of our students, faculty, and staff.

The Capital Campaign: Legacy of Excellence: Learning, Leading, and Serving invites participants to make pledges over a 5-year period, allowing us to enhance our facilities, expand our programs, and ensure a vibrant future for generations to come.

The Capital Campaign has provided our school with a new, state-

of-the-art Physics Lab. According to Sarah Palandri, ICCP Science Department Chair, “The new physics lab will have a positive impact on student learning by enhancing their opportunities for academic success. With new flexible seating that allows for hands-on learning, students will have the opportunity to deepen their understanding of physics and engineering principles.

The lab also fosters collaboration, critical thinking, and problem-solv-

ing skills, as students work together on experiments and projects”.

This incredible addition to our school would not have been possible without the generous support of our donors through the Capital Campaign.

Your contributions have truly made an impact on our students’ education. Thank you for your unwavering support!

To view the complete strategic plan, visit www.iccatholicprep.org.

(Continued from page 5)

tion reconstruction at Lloyd Avenue, Illinois 53 and Arboretum/Woodcreek Drive, bridge repair, noise barrier installation, new retaining wall and ADA-compliant sidewalk ramps. Daytime lane closures will be needed. The project is anticipated to begin fall 2024 and completed fall 2026.

• Butterfield Road from Illinois 59 to York Road traffic signal modernization will require daytime lane closures. The project is anticipated to begin spring 2025 and estimated to be complete fall 2026.

• Illinois 38 (Roosevelt Road) from east of Technology Boulevard to west of Winfield Road resurfacing also includes ADA-compliant sidewalk ramps. Daytime lane closures are needed during construction. The project is anticipated to begin spring 2025 and is anticipated to be complete fall 2025.

• Butterfield Road from west of Illinois 59 to Naperville Road resurfacing also includes ADA-compliant sidewalk ramps. Daytime lane closures are needed during construction. The project is anticipated to begin spring 2025 and is anticipated to be complete fall 2025.

“By investing in thoughtfully chosen infrastructure projects, the state of Illinois is improving the quality of life for people throughout DuPage,” said state Rep. Terra Costa Howard (D-Glen Ellyn). “I’m especially pleased that many of these projects will make our communities more accessible for people with disabilities. Together, we are making DuPage County an even greater place to live, work and raise a family.”

“These investments in safe, efficient and well-maintained roads are about helping families get where they’re going, ensuring businesses can move their products at a lower cost, and of course creating and sustaining good-paying jobs,” said House Speaker Emanuel “Chris” Welch.

“A strong transportation system is vital for economic development and plays a key role in ensuring social well-being and prosperity of our

communities,” said Senate Majority Leader Kimberly A. Lightford (D-Maywood). “Our residents depend on these roads and bridges and improving them will enhance their quality of life and environmental sustainability.”

“Improving the quality of our local roads and bridges is an investment into road safety, job opportunities, and overall environmental sustainability,” said state Sen. Laura Ellman (D-Naperville). “Through this investment, we will keep our communities connected and facilitate reliable transportation for every resident.”

“By upgrading infrastructure in DuPage County, our state is committed to improving safety, fulfilling transportation needs and creating economic opportunities,” said state Sen. Suzy Glowiak Hilton (D-Western Springs). “Residents, motorists and visitors will benefit from these investments for many years to come.”

“Investing in our transportation infrastructure is essential to improve driver and pedestrian safety,” said state Sen. Karina Villa (D-West Chicago). “These road improvements will provide our community with security and better access to essential services and other resources.”

Passed in 2019, Rebuild Illinois is investing a total of $33.2 billion over six years into the state’s aging transportation system, creating jobs and promoting economic growth. Rebuild Illinois is not only the largest capital program in state history, but also the first that touches all modes of transportation: roads and bridges, transit, waterways, freight and passenger rail, aviation, and bicycle and pedestrian accommodations.

Accomplishments through Year Five of Rebuild Illinois include approximately $16 billion of improvements statewide on 6,541 miles of highway, 686 bridges and 986 additional safety improvements. Visit https://idot.click/Rebuild-Illinois for information and highlights of other Rebuild Illinois projects happening throughout the state.

Auditions for GreenMan Theatre’s production of ‘The Cover of Life’ will be held Sept.

Interested in a role in an upcoming production of GreenMan Theatre Troupe’s “The Cover of Life” by playwright R.T. Robinson? If so, head to GreenMan’s performance space at First United Methodist Church of Elmhurst, 232 S. York St., for auditions from 7-9 p.m. on Monday, Sept. 23, and Wednesday, Sept. 25. Based on true events in the life

of Robinson’s mother, “The Cover of Life” features Tood, Weetsie and Sybill, three brides in rural Louisiana, each married to a Cliffert brother and living under their mother-in-law’s roof as their men are off fighting in World War II. A local news article about these young wives attracts the attention of American magazine magnate Henry Luce. He decides the trio belongs on

the cover of Life Magazine and assigns Kate Miller, a war correspondent, to the story. Though she views doing a “women’s piece” as a career setback, Miller accepts her first cover story and embarks on a greater journey than she anticipates. With charm, heartache and hope, “The Cover of Life” is a deeply affecting story about the characters’ struggles for self-worth.

Worship Services Directory

Gather with us for weekend worship!

Saturdays 5 p.m.

Sundays 8:30 and 11 a.m.

Education Hour between services at 9:45 a.m.

142 E. Third St. Elmhurst, IL ImmanuelElmhurst.org 630-832-1649

Call Brenda at 630-834-4450 or Betty at 630-627-7010

St. Timothy Evangelical

Lutheran Church

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

Sunday Worship at 10:15 am

Lent and Easter Services at 7 p.m.

Sunday School & Bible Study 9 am

“The Crucial Hours”

Second Lenten Service March 9, 2022

“This is a very character-driven story,” said Jayne Furlong, the play’s director. “Each character is dynamic and multi-faceted, so there’s a lot for actors to sink their teeth into and work with when it comes to these roles.”

When it comes to casting “The Cover of Life,” Furlong said she is “looking for actors excited to have deep, probing conversations around characters, the situations within the play and the overall story that the cast will be telling together.”

GreenMan Theatre’s “The Cover of Life” cast will feature seven roles. For a complete list of roles and character descriptions, log on to www.greenmantheatre.org/coveroflife or https:// www.facebook.com/share/VHEj4deQEiQYLza9/?mibextid=9VsGKo.

Auditions will consist of cold readings from the script. Callbacks will be held as needed. Auditionees are asked to specify on their audition form if there is a callback conflict. Walkups are also welcome. Resumes are encouraged but not required. Audition sides will be available for review beginning Sept. 15 by contacting cover-

23 and Sept. 25

oflifegmt@gmail.com.

Furlong encourages performers of all races and ethnicities, gender identities, sexualities, abilities and ages to audition. However, auditionees should note that this script contains sensitive subjects and themes including infertility, domestic violence, suicide and gun violence. Each actor should consider his/her/their comfort level with discussing and portraying these issues before moving forward with auditioning.

Actors must be prepared to list all conflicts from October—November.

GreenMan Theatre’s “The Cover of Life” has a short rehearsal period and is an ensemble piece, so most actors will be called at most rehearsals. Rehearsals will be on Sundays, Mondays, Wednesdays and Thursdays. This is a community theater production. All positions are unpaid, and all participants are expected to assist with at least one work call (set build, poster distribution, prop organization, costume assistance, etc.)

Contact the director with any additional questions at coveroflifegmt@ gmail.com.

Wednesday Service at 7pm Adult Bible Study Wednesdays after Service Saturday, September 28, Game Night at 4 pm

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

Third Lenten Service March 16, 2022

Everyone is Welcome!

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

All services are live streamed. Watch on our website or on Facebook. sainttimothy.org 460153

Fourth Lenten Service March 23, 2022

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

Rehearsals are in full swing for GreenMan Theatre’s production of the opening mainstage show of its 21st season—“Miss Holmes”—to be performed on weekends from Sept. 20—Oct. 6. Written by Christopher M. Walsh, the play is based on characters created by Sir Arthur Conan Doyle and unfolds amidst the stodgy Victorian Era in 1881. Performances of “Miss Holmes” will be held at 232 S. York St., Elmhurst, in the First United Methodist Church building. Tickets are available for the Sept. 20—Oct. 6 performances, scheduled for Fridays and Saturdays at 7:30 p.m. and Sundays at 2 p.m. The ticket cost is $20 for adults and $15 for children/seniors (65+). Talk backs with the cast members will be held after the first and second Sunday productions. Tickets can be purchased at https://ticketpeak.co/GMTT, or at the door prior to each performance, providing the show is not sold out.

Obituary

NANCY ANN O’TOOLE

Fifth Lenten Service March 30, 2022

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

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

Sept. 6, 1961- Aug. 29, 2024

Sixth Lenten Service April 6, 2022

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

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

Maundy Thursday Communion 7 p.m., April 14

Good Friday Tenebrae 7 p.m., April 15

Confessions: Saturday: 3-3:45PM

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

Adoration:

Easter Breakfast 8 a.m., April 17

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

It is with heavy hearts we announce the passing of our beloved Sister, Aunt, Great Aunt, Niece and friend, who passed away suddenly on August 29, 2024. Nancy was a very caring, compassionate giving person and wanted to help others. She became an R.N. and also received her Master’s Degree at Illinois Benedictine University. Nancy was a member of Immaculate Conception Church her entire life. She participated in Bible Study, volunteered in the Adoration Chapel, Food bank and the I.C. picnic, which was a favorite of hers.

Internment at St. Mary Cemetery, Evergreen Park, IL.

One of Nancy’s accomplishments was participating and completing in the Chicago Marathon, but her happiest moments were spent with her family. She is preceded in death by her parents, James F. O’Toole and Eleanor R. O’Toole. Her Uncle Richard F. O’Toole. She will be greatly missed by her brothers, James G. O’Toole (Tammy), Timothy G. O’Toole, Terrence G. O’Toole (Barb), Thomas G. O’Toole (Shelly), Aunt Bette O’Toole and lifelong friend Claire (Porter) Severson and her many nieces and nephews and great nieces and nephews whom she loved as her own.

SUBMITTED PHOTO Elmhurst Independent

IMMACULATE CONCEPTION GRADE SCHOOL

132 Arthur St Elmhurst, Illinois 630-530-3490

Immaculate Conception Grade School celebrates 125 years of Catholic Education and growing in the Light of Christ during the 2024-2025 school year!

3 year old Preschool-8th Grade 125 years of Tradition. This investment pays dividends for life.

Even Dad gets into the act

The little boy (seated) and his Dad behind him both work on one of the craft projects that could be made in the children’s activity center at EWAN’s ‘Cue for a Cause held Sunday, Sept. 1 in the municipal lot near York and Vallette, behind the Knights of Columbus.

• Cause

(Continued from page 1)

Best sauce People’s Choice:

First place: Sweet William led by Bill Steber

Second place: 2 K’s and a Q led by Moira Kinsella

Third place: Champion Oaks led by John Malysiak

Best chicken

First place: Smokin’ Tailgators led by Steve Deboer

Second place: 2 K’s and a Q led by Moira Kinsella

Third place: Armstrong BBQ led by Dan Armstrong

Sponsors

Top sponsors of EWAN’s ‘Cue for a Cause included Full Boar: C&C Power; Bos Hog: Explore Elmhurst, Elmhurst Bank, Endeavor Health, Jeanne & John Kett, Kelly Stetler/ Compass; Whole Hog: Lakeside Bank, Golf Group & Friends, Larry Roesch Volkswagen, Mehta Motors, Star Pro Shop, Elmhurst Living magazine, Duly Health and Care, Mike & Desi Gawne, Darley, Hauert Law Office, The Dan Gibbons Foundation; Full Slab: ICI, Tony & Mary Pierotti, AMS Industries, Inc., Bob & Mary Mallon, Don & Joan Hoff, Rob & Cheryl Kopecky, Community Bank of Elmhurst, Rich & Jan Edgley, Marilyn Arado, Mary Hallman, JDog Junk Removal & Hauling, and SignArtistUSA. A full list of sponsors is available at elmhurstwalkin.org.

Ribs on parade

Volunteers parade in with ribs held over their heads to present to the celebrity judges of the “Beat Barbecue Jim” competition. Grillers got to go head-to-head against Barbecue Jim Lawshe to try to defeat the master! Judges included Dan Gibbons, Jack Island, Alderman Brian Cahill and Jim Capannari. The winner was the Smokin’ Tailgators team led by Steve DeBoer.

Makin’ the music

There’s always live music on the stage at the EWAN ‘Cue for a Cause and this year was no different as bands continued all day long. Grillers could set up as early as 6 p.m. in the parking lot near York and Vallette, behind the Knights of Columbus.

A face in the crowd

This little girl smiles as she displays her new face-painting, as the young man in the chair waits his turn to have his tiger face completed. Face-painting was just one of the many children’s activities at EWAN’s ‘Cue for a Cause on Sunday, Sept. 1.

DEE LONGFELLOW PHOTOS Elmhurst Independent

Sport S

Trojans beat Montini

Timothy Christian’s girls volleyball team faced Montini Catholic in last week’s match in Lombard. The visiting Trojans defeated the Broncos 25-18, 25-22 in the Sept. 5 contest. Timothy Christian improved its overall season record to 6-2 with the victory. One photo from the match shows senior Abby Vander Wal (No. 12)

of the Trojans. Another photo shows sophomore Audrey Williams (No. 14). Also pictured is junior Ella Rickert (No. 11). One day after beating Montini, Timothy Christian raised its record to 7-2 with Friday’s 25-14, 25-14 home win over Illiana Christian.

York girls volleyball team off to strong 6-2 start

Defense a bright spot in early going for Dukes

By Mike Miazga CORRESPONDENT

There is the old sports adage that defense wins games. And for the York girls volleyball team, that has proven entirely true in the early part of the 2024 season.

Strong defense has helped the

Dukes charge out to a 6-2 overall mark through their first eight matches. York went 4-1 at the Wheaton North tournament and also scored an opening-night, non-conference win over Timothy Christian in front of a huge crowd at York. “Right now, our team has been doing a really good job with our block and our defense,” York coach Danny Piwowarczyk said. “Teams have been struggling to

score against us.”

Ava Nawrocki leads York in digs with 43, while Audrey Faley is the team leader in blocks with 11. Offensively, Katie Day is tops in kills with 61, while Amalia Tolioupoulos leads in service aces with 12. She’s also tops in setting assists with 95. Tolioupoulos was named to the all-tournament team at Wheaton North.

After Day, freshman Eileen Car-

Dukes score key conference win against Glenbard West

By Mike Miazga CORRESPONDENT

The York boys golf team has enjoyed some recent success in dual matches. The Dukes piled up four dual wins, including a key West Suburban Conference Silver Division victory over Glenbard West.

York was a 148-160 non-conference winner against Maine South. Gage Jacobs shot even-par 35 at Maple Meadows in Wood Dale. Brendan Carroll shot a 37, while Henry Cabage and Sal Purpora each shot 38s and Hans Bjorlin shot 39. Collin Adelsbach shot 41.

The Dukes also were 148-153 WSC Silver winners against Oak Park-River Forest. Jacobs again shot even-par 35 at Maple Meadows, while Carroll finished with a 37. Pur-

pora shot 38, as did Will Huber. Andrew Gumbach shot 39. Bjorlin and Adelsbach each carded 40s.

In a 152-170 win over Glenbard West in WSC action, Carroll shot 1-under par 34 at Maple Meadows. Jacobs and Huber each shot 39s. Gumbach finished with a 40, while Bjorlin shot 41. Adelsbach and Cabage each shot 42.

York then moved to 4-0 in dual action after a 152-167 non-conference win against Lake Park. Adelsbach and Blake Flessner each shot 2-over 37 at Maple Meadows, while Bjorlin and Purpora finished with 39s. Carroll shot 40 and Cabage finished with a 41.

“The season is going great so far,”

York coach Jim Borel said. “We have quite a few kids who can shoot mid

to low 70s and we have great senior leadership in Brendan Carroll and Hans Bjorlin. Brendan shot 1-under at Maple Meadows in a big win over conference rival Glenbard West. I am proud of how all our kids are working hard to get better. We are looking forward to some big matches this week.”

York (4-0, 2-0 WSC Silver) has road matches this week against Hinsdale Central at Hinsdale Country Club and Downers Grove North at Belmont Golf Club in Downers Grove. Through four dual matches, a quad and a tournament so far, Jacobs is leading in nine-hole scoring average at 37.8, followed closely by Carroll at 38. Gumbach is averaging 39 strokes for nine, while Adelsbach is at 39.25 and Bjorlin is at 39.63. Huber checks in at 39.67.

roll and Toliopoulos round out the top-three kill leaders on the team. Piwowarczyk also pointed out senior Lilly Roach has made the shift from middle blocker to right-side hitter for York, “and has been doing a really good job learning a new position and succeeding in it,” he said. “We have started running a 6-2 (offense with two setters on the court at the same time) with Amalia and Elyse Smith (junior setter), which has allowed us to get our offense going a bit more being able to let Amalia hit. We are trying to get some connections down to limit the errors we are making on our side and that has really been the big focus recently.”

In addition to Faley, a junior, classmate Reese Timmerwilke has been a key factor on the block. “Our middles Reece and Audrey have been doing an excellent job shutting down some of the opponents’ best hitters,” Piwowarczyk said. Nawrocki, a senior, is joined in the back row by defensive specialists Lila Bennis (freshman), Allison Fehlberg (junior) and Ellie Kehoe (junior). “Our libero Ava and defensive specialists Lila, Allison and Ellie have really good defensive effort that helps keep rallies alive,” Piwowarczyk said. Piwowarczyk is thrilled a pair of

freshmen in Carroll and Bennis have been able to step in and immediately contribute to the lineup. “It’s really exciting that we have two freshmen in the starting lineup,” he said. “Eileen and Lila both have been working really hard to continue to improve at practice while getting used to being in a brand-new school. I am really proud of them because coming in in those spots is difficult.” Roach, Nawrocki and Day are the team captains. “Lilly, Ava and Katie all do a really good job of setting the tone for work ethic,” Piwowarczyk said. “All three constantly stay after practice and get extra reps. They lead by example. This group is really fun and positive. Everyone is supportive of each other and the girls genuinely are rooting for each other’s success, which is really fun to be around. I have to remind myself how young this team is with seven juniors and two freshmen seeing a lot of court time. They are a wonderful group of athletes and are willing to put in the work.”

York opened West Suburban Conference Silver Division play earlier this week against Oak Park-River Forest and will then head to the Niles West invitational Friday and Saturday.

CHRIS FOX PHOTOS Elmhurst Independent

Timothy Christian girls volleyball team wins TC-Westmont tournament

IC Catholic Prep graduate

Trojans off to 7-2 start

By Mike Miazga

CORRESPONDENT

Will play volleyball for Division II school

By Mike Miazga CORRESPONDENT

Leslie headed to Le Moyne

The returns have been quite positive thus far for the Timothy Christian girls volleyball team. After two more non-conference wins against Montini and Illiana Christian, the Trojans moved to 7-2 overall. Timothy also won its own co-hosted TC/ Westmont tournament with a 5-0 mark, defeating IC Catholic Prep in the title match.

kills, two digs and one ace. Audrey Williams had three kills, while Miriam Pozdol-Niego had three digs and three assists. Jenna Wasco had one kill, one ace, one block and three digs, while Elizabeth Alex had 17 assists and two digs.

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

al was leading the team with 94 kills, 12 aces and 47 digs. Rickert had 36 kills, nine aces and 12 blocks. Potempa had 55 kills, six aces and 30 digs. Williams finished with 25 kills and 11 blocks, while Alex had 150 assists, six aces and four blocks.

hitters,” he explained. “Our middles are averaging eight kills per match, which gives the pin hitters extra space since the opposing middles need to worry about and track our middles.”

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

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

In a 25-18, 25-22 win over Montini, Abby VanderWal had nine kills, eight digs, two blocks and one ace. Ella Rickert had six kills and two blocks. Bella Potempa had four

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

Timothy also recorded a 25-15, 25-14 win over Illiana Christian where Rickert had seven kills, two blocks and two digs. VanderWal finished with six kills, seven digs and one block. Potempa had five kills, six digs, one block and one ace. Williams had three kills and one block. Wasco had one kill, two aces and six digs. Kate Vogelzang had five digs and one ace. Alex had 18 assists, four digs, one ace, one kill and one block.

Through nine matches, VanderW-

“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.”

“We struggled to finish out close matches in the first week because we had to get a group of girls who haven’t played together a lot used to each other in game play,” Timothy coach Scott Piersma said. “This past week, we have played our best team volleyball by jumping out to early leads on teams and maintaining them to close out the match.”

Piersma said the Trojans’ offense has been the best part of their arsenal so far. “We have incredible balance between our middles and pin

That strong play in the middle also has translated into part of the team’s defensive improvement.

“Our block is big up at the net, allowing our defense to set up in the right spots,” Piersma said.

“While we haven’t had a lot of blocks, the girls are affecting the hitters but getting hands on attacks to slow things down and forcing the hitters to try and move the ball around them.”

Piersma lauded the recent efforts of Rickert, VanderWal and Alex.

“Ella has been phenomenal this

year,” he said. “There hasn’t been an opposing middle that has been able to keep up with her. Abby, of course, is a huge player for us because we know we can go to her whenever we need a big point, and she will come through for us. Elizabeth has been confident and focused in taking over a 5-1 offense as setter.”

And through those first nine matches, Piersma likes how things have developed. “Right now, I am impressed with how the girls are coming together as a team,” he said.

“As I said before, we are melding together two groups of girls that haven’t seen a lot of court time together, including a senior transfer new to everyone. We can play a match with as few as seven girls or as many as 10 without missing much of a beat.”

IC Catholic Prep girls volleyball team defeats Nazareth and Rosary

By Mike Miazga

After a 4-1 showing at the recent Timothy Christian-Westmont tournament, the IC Catholic Prep girls volleyball team continued its winning ways with a pair of 2-0 sweeps against Nazareth Academy and Rosary. The two wins pushed ICCP to 6-1 on the season.

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

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

– Bella Leslie

Knights move to 6-1 on young season; Carling averaging nearly 5 kills per set

Emily Carling is leading the of-

• Offenses

(Continued from page 9)

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.”

guns on the streets and both men are now facing serious weapons charges. Public safety remains the top priority of my administration, and my office will continue to fully prosecute those who illegally possess a firearm, as alleged against Mr. Adams and Mr. Salinas. I thank the Elmhurst and Wood Dale Police Departments for their heads-up work on these two cases and for their ongoing efforts in keeping DuPage County safe.”

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

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

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

• Stopka

“I credit the police officers who bravely and safely took this intoxicated driver into custody while within his reach was a ghost gun loaded with an extended capacity magazine,” McLean said. “Their service and the support of DuPage County State’s Attorney Bob Berlin and his office holds dangerous offenders accountable in our community.”

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

“I commend our dedicated officers who acted on their training and observations to remove a dangerous, habitual offender and gang member from our streets,” Zito said. “This case underscores our relentless pursuit of justice and our determination to keep our community safe from those who pose a threat. The Wood Dale Police Department will continue to work diligently to ensure that those who break the law are held accountable.”

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.”

fense at 4.9 kills per set and is hitting at a .290 clip. Maura Grogan is leading the team in blocks with 10, while Natalie Lawton is tops on the defensive end, averaging 6.6 digs per set.

“Our team has been focusing a lot on serve and serve-receive,” ICCP coach Lauren LaVigne said. “We’ve done a good job keeping other teams out of system by serving aggressively.”

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.

Progress is being made on the offensive end, LaVigne said, while the Knights’ signature defensive excellence remains front and center. “Our offense continues to improve,” she said. “We have a lot of consistent, smart hitters and we are starting to move the ball around more and work on new plays. Our defense is some of the best I have ever seen since I started coaching. Our back row does

“ We’ve started sets down 7-0 and have come back to win. They never let their opponents or circumstances change their demeanors. They find a way to come together and make big plays and always are each other’s biggest supporters.”

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

a phenomenal job reacting and keeping balls alive. They do a great job supporting their hitters and setter.”

LaVigne calls Carling one of the smartest and most versatile hitters.

“Emily reads blocks and our opponents’ defense efficiently and is able to find spots to put the ball down. She is always a great server for us and passer. All around, she’s a solid and consistent volleyball player who makes a huge difference for us on the court.”

Lawton continues to play a huge role for the Knights in the back row.

more opportunities.”

LaVigne also has been pleased with Grogan’s play at the net. “Maura does a great job being active at the net,” she said. “She’s constantly moving our opponents’ blockers around and running big plays in the middle. She is doing a great job slowing down the ball for our defense. She gets up fast and makes it hard for our opponents to find an opening around her.”

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.”

York football week 3 preview

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

– Lauren LaVigne, ICCP coach

Downers Grove South (1-1) at York (2-0)

When: Friday, 7:30 p.m., York High School

Last week: York 35, Plainfield North 13; Downers North 42, Downers South 0

Last year: York 47, Downers South 7

(Continued from page 18)

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.”

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.”

Outlook: A West Suburban Conference crossover contest featuring the Dukes against perennial WSC Gold Division contender Downers Grove South. York won this meeting last year by 40 points in Downers Grove. Bruno Massel threw for two touchdowns and ran for another touchdown while Henry Duda ran for two more touchdowns in York’s Week 2 win over Plainfield North. Downers South lost to town neighbor Downers Grove North 42-0 in their annual meeting last week. North and York meet in Week 6 in Elmhurst. South opened the season with a 33-15 win over Metea Valley.

ble and transparent and communicate with everybody.”

“Natalie is already averaging more than 6 digs per set, which is incredible,” LaVigne said. “Her ability to track balls and adjust her defense around our blockers and our opponents’ hitters is a big game-changer for us. She is our leader in the back court and keeps it running smoothly and efficiently to give our hitters

Looking at the team’s early season results, LaVigne noted ICCP has kept its composure when facing scoreboard deficits. “What impressed me the most about our team is its ability to fight together,” she said. “We’ve started sets down 7-0 and have come back to win. They never let their opponents or circumstances change their demeanors. They find a way to come together and make big plays and always are each other’s biggest supporters.”

Adams’ next court appearance is scheduled for Sept. 30 for arraignment in front of Judge Brian Telander.

Salinas’ next court appearance is scheduled for Sept. 30 for arraignment in front of Judge Ann Celine O’Hallaren Walsh.

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

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

ICCP football week 3 preview

IC Catholic Prep (1-0) at Chicago St. Ignatius (1-1)

When: Friday, 7:30 p.m., St. Ignatius High School, Chicago

Last week: Fenwick 34, St. Ignatius 24

Last year: Did not play

Outlook: ICCP did not have a Week 2 game. The Knights opened the season in St. Louis with a victory. They will turn their attention now to this Chicago Catholic League/East Suburban Catholic Conference crossover game on the road against St. Ignatius College Prep. St. Ignatius lost by 10 points to Fenwick last week. The Wolfpack does share a commonality with ICCP. Both teams opened the season against opponents from St. Louis. St. Ignatius defeated St. Louis University High at home 56-21.

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 BRENDAN CARROLL YORK BOYS GOLF

Glenbard West at Maple Meadows in Wood Dale.

CHRIS FOX PHOTO Elmhurst Independent

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

baseball action

Carroll shot a 1-under par 34 to help the York boys golf team record a 152-170 West Suburban Conference Silver Division win over

The Elmhurst Memorial Hospital Foundation recently awarded the 2024 Myers Endowed Scholarships to two students—AJ Sinnung of Elmwood Park and Juliana Urgello of Woodridge. The Myers Scholarships are awarded every year to children of Elmhurst Hospital team members who are pursuing healthcare careers. Pictured left to right are: Susan Tyburski, Executive Director, EMH Foundation; Valerie Cahill, Scholarship Committee Chair; Eileen Urgello; Dr. Kim Darey, President, Endeavor Health Elmhurst Hospital; Juliana Urgello; Paul Myers; Shirley Myers; AJ Sinnung; Arcelie Quirona and Paul Simoun Sinnung.

NOTICE TO OUR READERS Receiving the weekly Elmhurst Independent

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EMH Foundation Myers Scholarships awarded to two students

The Elmhurst Memorial Hospital (EMH) Foundation has awarded $5,000 Thomas O. Myers, Jr. and Shirley L. Myers Endowed Scholarships to AJ Sinnung of Elmwood Park and Juliana Urgello of Woodridge. The scholarships are awarded every year to children of Elmhurst Hospital team members who are pursuing careers in healthcare.

Sinnung, a 2021 graduate of Fenwick High School, is entering his senior year at Loyola University Chicago, where he is pursuing a nursing degree with the goal of becoming an emergency department or intensive care unit nurse. His father, Paul Simoun Sinnung, works in the Recovery Room at Endeavor Health Elmhurst Hospital and his mother is Arcelie Quirona.

Urgello, a 2024 graduate of Downers Grove South High School, is entering her freshman year at Loyola University Chicago, where she is majoring in nursing. Her moth-

er, Eileen Urgello, works in the PreOp/Pre-Admission Testing Unit at Endeavor Health Elmhurst Hospital. The Myers Endowed Scholarships were first awarded in 2004 in appreciation for the high quality and compassionate care provided by the staff of Endeavor Health Elmhurst Hospital to those living and working in the communities it serves. A scholarship committee chooses the winners each year based on academic achievement, evidence of leadership and community service, and a written essay describing their decision to pursue a career in healthcare.

Founded in 1980, the EMH Foundation offers many giving opportunities and annual special events designed to support the hospital’s programs and facilities, including the Autumn Affair Gala, Chef Fest, Reindeer Route Housewalk and the Love Lights program. For more information, visit www.EMHFoundation.org or call 331-221-0388.

Tatum Langley to perform on Sept. 28

Mail to: The Elmhurst Independent, 240 N. West Ave., Elmhurst, IL. 60126. Or call 630.834-8244

On Saturday, Sept. 28, Bethel United Church of Christ opens its 26th Music@Bethel concert series with a performance by vocalist Tatum Langley (pictured) of Elmhurst. The concert, which will begin at 7 p.m., is to be presented in Bethel’s acoustically pleasing sanctuary and will showcase the music of Broadway, from The Golden Age to the present. Langley, who is a York High School graduate, regularly records and tours nationwide with the acclaimed Postmodern Jukebox, a Scott Bradlee group specializing in big band jazz and musical theatre styles. During the upcoming concert, Langley will perform classic songs from Broadway’s most beloved composers, including Rodgers and Hammerstein, Cole Porter and Stephen Sondheim. She also will shed some well-deserved light on a hidden gem by Elton John. Langley promises a night full of delightful tunes and a bit of Broadway history. In her own words, “Music is a celebration, a protest, a constantly breathing thing with the true power to heal and connect us, always.” Collaborating with Langley on the piano will be Music@Bethel’s artistic director—Jeffrey Panko. A wine reception will follow the concert. Bethel United Church of Christ is located at 315 East St. Charles Road in Elmhurst. Tickets are $25–$35 and can be purchased on Eventbrite or at the door. Admission is free for students. Parking is free. For more information, call 630-279-4040.

SUBMITTED PHOTO Elmhurst Independent

SUBMITTED PHOTO Elmhurst Independent

Elmhurst Knights of Columbus concludes ‘Giving Month’ with Oktoberfest celebration on Sept. 21

The Elmhurst Knights of Columbus has been busy during the month of September, hosting three events to raise $40,000 for individuals with intellectual disabilities.

Grand Knight Deacon Mike O’Ryan shared, “There are a lot of great local programs like Access Sports, SPRED, Misericordia, Ray Graham, and Special Olympics, that help people with special learning and life needs. We are excited to be a part of their success and dedicated the entire month of September to them”.

The Knights of Columbus started off the month with their famous Tootsie Roll Drive, with 75 to 100 volunteers on every major corner in Elmhurst. The Knights followed that up with a Classic Car Show fundraiser.

On Saturday, Sept. 21, the Knights of Columbus will host their Oktoberfest fundraiser.

According to Chris Cheffer of the Knights of Columbus, “We have been very busy helping raise awareness and money for these great local programs supporting intellectual disabilities, but now it’s time to break out your Lederhosen and dancing shoes as we kick off our last fundraiser with Oktoberfest.”

This year’s Knights of Columbus Oktoberfest is hosted at the Renaissance Room, 537 S. York St. The event will start at 5 p.m., with dinner being served at 6 p.m.

The ceremonial keg at will be tapped at 5:30 p.m., and the Chicago Big Band, featuring a true Alphorn will play from 6-9 p.m.

The upcoming Oktoberfest celebration will feature the finest fresh bratwurst and Bavarian holiday kraut from Usinger’s in Milwaukee. To complement the bratwurst, German potato salad will be served. Dessert will include authentic Strudel from Kuppie’s Bakery in Villa Park.

Tickets are $25 and can be purchased at the door. All are welcome.

For more information about Oktoberfest, visit www. elmhurst1911kofc.org.

Elmhurst Public Library programs

Friday, Sept. 13 - 2-4 p.m.

Friday Features:

“Ghostbusters: Frozen Empire”

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

No registration required.

Saturday, Sept. 14

2:30-4:30 p.m.

Caregiver’s Corner Drop-in

Visit the lobby to learn about our Caregiver’s Corner collection and additional resources available to caregivers in the community and beyond.

No registration required.

Monday, Sept. 16

10 a.m.-noon - Scrabble

Play a friendly game of Scrabble.

All skill levels welcome. Live in-person. No registration required.

Monday, Sept. 16

7-8:30 p.m.

Ciao Italia

Improve your Italian language skills while exploring a different aspect of Italian culture each month. All skill levels are welcome.

Live in-person and virtually on Zoom. Registration required.

Tuesday, Sept. 17

2-3 p.m.

Coloring for Mindfulness

Choose from beautiful designs and become absorbed in the joy of coloring.

No registration required.

New students welcomed to EU campus

More than 630 new students, along with family and friends, headed to the Elmhurst University campus recently for new student orientation and the start of the 2024-25 academic year.

The first-year and transfer students, all undergraduates, took part in a variety of orientation activities before joining returning students and graduate students for the first day of classes on Monday, Aug. 26.

For many first-year students, college life began a few days earlier, as they settled into their residence halls. The new students brought along their parents and siblings for emotional and box-unpacking support as a steady stream of student-athletes helped to carry duffle bags, lamps, overflowing laundry baskets and mini-fridges to their rooms.

In Schick Hall, Veronica Cosio and her parents were putting the finishing touches on her side of her room. Even though the Cosios live close by in Addison, they want Veronica to have “the full college experience,” including living on campus.

“She’ll be able to get more in-

volved in things, really become part of the Elmhurst community,” says Veronica’s mom, Elmhurst alumna Karla Cosio.

Veronica Cosio, a psychology major, says she’s “really excited to be more independent.” She’s also excited to become one of the first members of Elmhurst’s new women’s wrestling team.

Over the next few days of New Student Orientation, students learned more about each other and about life at Elmhurst U. They met their classmates, the faculty and staff who would be leading their First Year Seminar course, and the other students in their major. And they took some time to explore their values and learn about making the transition to college life. Supportive experiences like New Student Orientation build students’ confidence so that they can excel not only academically but also later, in careers and whatever comes next.

During New Student Convocation, President Troy VanAken urged the students to learn from each other, look out for each other and contrib-

ute to a welcoming, inclusive campus environment.

“We believe that a strong sense of belonging is key to helping you successfully complete your academic journey,” he said. “Please do your part to make sure your classmates and friends feel welcome and respected and that they belong here, because they do!”

About Elmhurst University

Elmhurst University is a leading four-year institution of higher education that seamlessly blends a liberal arts education and professional preparation to help students acquire knowledge and skills for enduring success.

Founded in 1871, Elmhurst now offers more than 70 undergraduate programs of study, more than 20 graduate and certificate programs in flexible formats, and the Elmhurst Learning and Success Academy for young adults with differing abilities. Elmhurst University ranks among the top 10 best regional colleges and universities in the Midwest, according to U.S. News & World Report

Call for submissions: Short and Scary Writing Contest for kids in grades K-8 Submissions

The Elmhurst Public Library is now accepting submissions to its Short and Scary Writing Contest for kids grades K-8.

Submit an original super-short story or poem that’s 15 sentences or less. Submissions close Monday, Oct. 7. Submissions can be made online at elmlib.org/scary.

close on Oct. 7

Winners get a Barnes & Noble gift certificate, a spot in the Library’s Kids’ Ink magazine, and an opportunity to read their entry live in the Library on Saturday, Oct. 26.

The contest is sponsored by the Friends of the Elmhurst Public Library.

Winners will be notified the week of October 14.

Business & Service

CUSTOM CONCRETE

Residential driveways, patios, walkways. Stamped and colored concrete. Call Greg 630-469-6898 388922

Residential driveways, patios, walkways. Stamped and colored concrete. Call Greg 630-469-6898 453462

Classifieds

Announcements

CLASSIFIED IN-COLUMN ADS cannot be credited or refunded after the ad has been placed. Ads canceled before deadline will be removed from the paper as a service to our customers, but no credit or refund will be issued to your account.

DISCLAIMER NOTICE This publication does not knowingly accept fraudulent or deceptive advertising. Readers are cautioned to thoroughly investigate all ads, especially those asking for money in advance.

Burial Needs

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

Misc. For Sale

FOR SALE: WALK BEHIND VIBRATING PLATE SLED COMPACTOR, 18 inches wide, $250 obo. 630-947-9953

LOST OR FOUND

LOST WALLET

I, Haseeb Polani S/O Kashif Polani, have “LOST” my wallet at the Mobil gas station located at 435 W. Roosevelt Rd, Lombard, IL 60148. The wallet contains my Pakistani passport Number AR3700322 & AR3700323 attached together and National ID card of Pakistan, Drivers License Local and International credit cards, and debit cards. If found, please contact me at 1-678-800-1010 via WhatsApp at +1-678-800-1010 or by email haseebpolani2002@gmail.com. Your help would be highly appreciated. I am ready to give $1000 reward also if someone can just return my passport. 461112

Business & Service DIRECTORY

of heaven, blessed mother of the Son of God.

Immaculate Virgin, assist me in my necessity. Oh Star of the Sea, help me and show me, herein you are my mother.

Oh, Holy Mary, Mother of God, Queen of Heaven and Earth! I humbly beseech you from the bottom of my heart to answer me in this necessity. There are none that can withstand your power. Oh, show me herein you are my mother. Oh, Mary conceived without sin, pray for us who have recourse to thee (3x). Holy Mother, I place this cause in your hands (3xs). Sweet Mother, I place this cause in your hands (3x). Holy Spirit, you who solve all problems, light all roads so that I can attain my goal, you who gave me divine gift to forgive and forget all evil against me, and that in all instances in my life you are with me. I want in this short prayer to thank you for all things as you confirm once again that I never want to be separated from you in eternal glory.

Thank you for your mercy towards me and mine.

The person must say this prayer 3 consecutive days, after 3 days the request will be granted.

This prayer must be published after the favor is granted. A.S.

FALL FEST on Spring Road

Saturday, September 14th

11:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m.

Celebrate the beginning of fall with a petting zoo, pony rides, carnival games, pumpkin painting, and photo cutouts among other attractions.

Concessions are available (Cash only)

Start your day with a hot or cold Lavazza coffee drink and our breakfast offerings — donuts, coffee cakes, muffins, scones, croissants, turnovers and more!

We make Specialty Cakes and Desserts for any occasion and for all your celebrations

Enjoy our freshly popped gourmet popcorn. We have different flavors for everyone!

For a list of the Most Needed Items go to: SpringRoad.Com/we-care/

Sponsored By: With Support From:

The Spring Road Business Association is holding a Food Drive during our Fall Fest event to help our local community members in need. You can pick up a brown bag at any of the following businesses: Alan Energy Services, Berkshire Hathaway Prairie Path Realtors, Community Bank of Elmhurst (Butterfield Location Only), DeVries Animal Hospital, Great American Exteriors, Lezza Bakery, My Car Wash, Phillip’s Flowers, Roberto’s Ristorante and Total Window Treatments.

To drop off your donation, you can bring your brown bag filled with food to the Spring Road Fall Fest event. We will have a truck from the Elmhurst-Yorkfield Food Pantry on site to take the donations to the pantry.

FALL FEST on Spring Road