Elmhurst Independent
A solemn ceremony
Taking the ALS Ice Bucket Challenge
On Friday, Aug. 30, York Township Clerk Anthony Cuzzone, along with Trustees Rae Rupp Srch, Jeffrey Mussatto, Anthony Pacilli and Erica Whipple completed the ALS (amyotrophic lateral sclerosis) Ice Bucket Challenge before lunch at the Senior Nutrition Center to help bring awareness and encourage people to donate. York Township Supervisor John W. Valle completed the challenge earlier in August, and was happy to help while staying dry this time around. The ALS Association aims to discover treatments and cures for the disease while providing free support to those living with the condition. Valle said, “I am proud my fellow board members joined me in the fight against ALS, and again I encourage those who are able to donate and join the cause as well.” Pictured (left to right, front row) are Whipple, Pacilli, Cuzzone, Rupp Srch and Mussatto; (back row, left to right) George Benes, Kevin O’Reilly, Valle, Diane Oravecz and Mike Oravecz.
The Elmhurst Police and Fire Color Guard process in to place the flag at half-staff during the dedication ceremony for the First Responders Memorial sculpture on Wednesday, Sept. 11. The sculpture was created by Elmhurst resident artist Jason Peot and includes a piece of one of the twin tower buildings that fell in New York City on Sept. 11,
Elmhurst Park District holds open houses to provide information about the Nov. 5 referendum
Center, 615 West Avenue, on Saturday, Sept. 28 (10 a.m. to noon), Tuesday, Oct. 15 (10 a.m. to noon) and Tuesday, Oct. 22 (6 to 8 p.m.). Tours at the open houses will begin on the half hour.
In the referendum on the Nov. 5 ballot, the Elmhurst Park District is giving residents the choice to fund high-priority projects identified by the community.
The open houses will allow residents to view the proposed projects and renderings, ask questions and take a tour of Wagner Community Center, which will be replaced if the referendum is approved.
Elmhurst Independent
Council Capsules
Here’s what’s going on at Elmhurst City Hall
By Dee Longfellow FOR THE ELMHURST INDEPENDENT
The following is a list of recent actions taken by the Elmhurst City Council presided by Mayor Scott Levin: Cahill, Brennan, Hill.
• During public forum, Dr. John Jevitz gave a brief presentation about Elmhurst’s Character Counts program and stressed what a fine community
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Elmhurst is because it is filled with people who “do the right thing when nobody’s looking,” which included the members of the City Council as well as several residents in the room.
• Elmhurst police officer Colleen Bruketta was sworn in and promoted to police sergeant.
• Ann Quinn Kelly was appointed to the Public Arts Commission.
• Based on a recommendation by the Development, Planning & Zoning (DPZ) Committee, a front yard variation was granted for the property at 630 S. Washington St.
• A recommendation from the Public Works & Buildings (PWB) Committee was approved to enter an engineering agreement with Clark Dietz, Inc. for watermain improvement in 2025 in an amount not to exceed $273,000.
• A permanent easement agreement with the Elmhurst Park District was accepted for the purpose of water main operation and maintenance at the Canine Corner Dog Park, located at 0S761 Old York Road in unincorporated DuPage County.
• Based on a recommendation of the PWB Committee, the City Attorney was authorized to prepare a reimbursement agreement with Arlington Cemetery for ditch maintenance construction services in an amount not to exceed $62,500.
• An ordinance was approved granting a conditional use permit for a Planned Unit Development (PUD) with a site development allowance for the property at 126-134 N. York St.
• An amended conditional use permit was granted for a PUD at Elmhurst University.
• A non-exclusive license agreement was entered between the City and the Elmhurst Park District for the purpose of utilizing the property on South Street between York Street and Arlington Avenue for the annual Fall Fest event in 2024.
• An ordinance was approved to authorize the Elmhurst History Museum to dispose of certain artifacts deemed surplus property.
• An ordinance was approved to authorize the execution of a license agreement with Zayo Group LLC to
use certain City rights-of-way to install fiber optic cable for high-speed internet access, which was advisable, necessary and in the public interest, in the opinion of a majority of the corporate authorities of the City.
• Based on a recommendation of the DPZ Committee, a resolution was approved for a grant through the City’s Façade Improvement Incentive Program for Clear Heights Properties located at 730 N. York St. The Committee determined that the project exemplifies the spirit of the program which is to advance economic development within the City’s TIF 4 District, TIF 5 District, and a Downtown TIF District. Therefore, it is the City’s best interest to provide the applicant with an amount not to exceed $72,389.
• A resolution was approved for a professional construction entering services agreement between the City
and Baxter & Woodman Inc. for the 2024 sanitary sewer and manhole rehabilitation project. It will provide the rehabilitation of approximately 11,000 linear feet of sanitary sewer and the review and rehabilitation of approximately 375 manholes. For the performance of these services, the City agrees to pay a lump sum payment in an amount not to exceed $90,000, plus reimbursable expenses and engineer’s fees.
• A second resolution was approved for Baxter & Woodman, Inc. for the 2025 Sanitary Sewer and manhole rehabilitation project.
• During his report to the Council, Levin praised the successful dedication of the new First Responders Memorial sculpture now in position at the south fire station. Residents are invited to purchase paver bricks imprinted with personal messages or memorials.
• Levin said close to 100 people
attended the recent open house to provide feedback on the Downtown Plan. He said he appreciates public feedback and assures more public events will be held in the future.
• The NAFA Fleet Management Association has named Elmhurst the 43rd greenest fleet in north American competition. There are 38,000 in the competition, and this represents the City’s first time appearing in the top 50. Started in 2008, the program honors cities which have ground-breaking and inventive programs in their green initiatives and peak performing fleet sustainability efforts.
• City Manager Jim Grabowski announced the Fire Department will kick off National Fire Prevention Week on Sunday, Oct. 6 from noon to 4 p.m. This is a free event which will include kids’ activities, giveaways, tours, demonstrations, refreshments and much more.
Grand opening
Elmhurst Chamber of Commerce members joined Dr. Roshini Neduvelil and Dr. Priya Patel, co-owners of Skyline Smiles of Elmhurst, at a ribbon cutting in celebration of the Sept. 14 grand opening of the dental office, which is located at 568 Spring Road, Suite A. Pictured left to right are chamber ambassador Ralph Pechanio, Dr. Neduvelil, Dr. Patel and Jennifer Veremis—the chamber’s director of member services.
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Bruketta promoted; becomes Elmhurst’s first female police sergeant
Officer Colleen Bruketta of the Elmhurst Police Department was promoted to the rank of sergeant during a special ceremony at the Elmhurst City Council meeting on Sept. 17. Bruketta is the first female to hold the rank of sergeant in the history of the Elmhurst Police Department. Elmhurst Mayor Scott Levin administered the oath of office to Bruketta during last week’s meeting. One photo (above left) shows Bruketta during the oath of office. Another photo (above right) shows Bruketta with Elmhurst Chief of Police Michael McLean. Bruketta, whose husband is also in law enforcement, pinned on her new badge. Sergeant Bruketta has completed 11 years of service with the Elmhurst Police Department. She has been a patrol officer, a mission team officer and a detective. Bruketta has also held a number of specialty assignments within the department—juvenile officer, DARE officer, bike officer and recruiting team officer. She completed a two-year assignment as a detective in the Investigations Division and is certified as a lead homicide and sex assault investigator. Additionally, Bruketta was the 2024 Elmhurst Citizens Police Academy class coordinator. She is a graduate of Western Illinois University with a bachelor’s degree in law enforcement and justice administration.
Susana Mendoza to address AAUW and LWV at the Elmhurst Public Library on Oct. 2
Illinois Comptroller Susana A. Mendoza will be the featured speaker before members of the American Association of University Women (AAUW) Elmhurst Branch and the Elmhurst League of Women Voters (LWV) at an event jointly sponsored by the Elmhurst Public Library at 7 p.m. on Wednesday, Oct. 2, at the library, 125 S. Prospect Ave., Elmhurst.
Mendoza will speak about the status of Fair Pay and Economic Equity for Women in the State of Illinois. All are welcome. This program will be live at and virtual, but registration is required. To register for the event, visit the library’s website at www.elmhurstpubliclibrary.org.
Starting as the youngest member of the 92nd Illinois General Assembly, Mendoza was routinely recognized for her leadership in the areas of social services, education, job creation, law enforcement, and animal welfare. She became the first Hispanic independently elected to statewide office in Illinois in 2016. She was re-elected in 2022 as the highest overall vote getter in Illinois. Mendoza’s work to successfully manage the State’s finances through historic crises earned her the distinction of becoming the first state-wide Democrat ever to be endorsed by the Illinois Chamber of Commerce.
Annual CROP Walk Oct. 6
The Great Prairie Trail CROP Hunger Walk, a tradition for 40 years, will be held Sunday, Oct. 6, at 1 p.m., beginning at First Church of Lombard, UCC, 220 S. Main St. Teams of walkers from local churches and community organizations will follow a route along the Prairie Path and Great Western Trail to raise awareness about the need for food assistance around the world and right here in our own communities. Funds raised will benefit Church World Service for their work in developing countries where people can walk up to six miles a day to get food and water. Here is DuPage County one in 10 people faces food insecurity and funds will benefit Disciples Food Pantry, Villa Park; The Outreach House, Lombard; Community Table, Lombard; United Community Concerns Association, Elmhurst; and Food for the Soul Food Pantry, Addison. Pictured are (left to right) Susie Sands (St. Peter’s United Church of Christ), Torri Lopez (Holy Trinity Lutheran Church), Walk Coordinator Hester Bury (The Outreach House) and Taryn Mueller (The Outreach House). To create or join a team or make a donation, visit: www.crophungerwalk. org/lombardil. Contact Bury at hesterbury@gmail.com for more information.
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Community calendar
Monday, Sept. 30
An American Version of Swedish Death Cleaning Presented by the Elmhurst Public Library from 7-8 p.m., loved ones wish to inherit nice things, but not all things. Give your family the gift of a clean, organized, and simple life. Learn to downsize in a memorable and joyful way with fun projects that can be started at any age. Live in-person and on Zoom. Free, but registration is required. For more information, call 630-279-8696 or email: reference@elmlib.org
Wednesday, Oct. 2
• Consuming and Discussing Political News. From 2-3:30 p.m. at the Elmhurst Public Library, Professor Gary Midkiff provides suggestions and shares examples for how to consume political news from a variety of trusted sources as the 2024 elections approach. Participants will learn to discuss political news in a way that promotes communication and understanding. Live in-person. Registration is required. For more information, call 630-279-8696 or email: reference@elmlib.org
• Economic Equity for Women in Illinois. Presented by the American Association of University Women from 7-8:30 p.m. at the Elmhurst Public Library, Illinois comptroller Susana Mendoza will speak about the status of Fair Pay and Economic Equity for Women in Illinois. Live in-person and virtually on Zoom. Registration is required. For more information, call 630-279-8696 or email: reference@elmlib.org
Thursday, Oct. 2
ECPA presents “An Intimate Evening with Visceral Dance Company.” From 6:30-9 p.m. at Stage 119, 119 Commerce Ave., join us as we continue our newest fundraising series, ECPA presents “An Intimate Evening with Visceral Dance
Elmhurst Fire Department holds its annual open house on Oct. 6
The Elmhurst Fire Department invites the community to its annual open house on Sunday, Oct. 6, from noon to 4 p.m. at Fire Station #2, located at 601 S. York St. This free event is part of the National Fire Prevention Week, which focuses on this year’s theme: “Smoke alarms: Make them work for you!™”. The theme aims to educate residents about the life-saving importance of having working smoke alarms in their homes.
The open house will feature a variety of activities for all ages, including fire safety demonstrations, station tours, and educational booths to help families and individuals learn about fire prevention and safety practices. This is a great opportunity to meet the fire department’s dedicated firefighters and first responders, while enjoying fun activities and refreshments.
The open house will include fire
Company”. Its compelling name, its powerful athleticism and the driving force of its founder, Nick Pupillo, ensure Visceral Dance as one of Chicago’s most exciting contemporary dance companies. This company exemplifies his daring vision to explore the infinite possibilities of contemporary movement and present the best of emerging, established, and innovative choreographers. The company is recognized for its exceptional technicality, diversity, versatility, and daring athleticism. Tickets: $20 for children ages 6-12; $50 for adults. For more information, call 224-283-7889 or email: ecpa.jenn@ gmail.com
Saturday, Oct. 5
• Family Fall Fest. From 9 a.m.noon presented by the Elmhurst Park District at Wild Meadows Trace, 511 S. York St., get your costumes ready and bring the family to The Depot at Wild Meadows Trace for Elmhurst Park District’s Family Fall Fest. Activities include Safety Town trick-ortreating, food trucks, plus fall festivities! Sponsored by Alpine Creek Dental, Kelly Stetler Real Estate and OHi Our Home Improvement.
• Journey Through the Cosmos with the Elmhurst Symphony Orchestra’s “The Planets & Star Wars.” Presented by the Elmhurst Symphony Orchestra from 7-9 p.m. at the Elmhurst Christian Reformed Church, 149 W. Brush Hill Road, Gustav Holst’s The Planets is celebrated as one of the most iconic works in the classical music repertoire. Completed in 1917 and inspired by astrological themes, this masterpiece has influenced countless composers, including John Williams,
whose Star Wars Suite will also be performed. Tickets are $35-$45 for general admission; $12 for students. For more information, call 630-9410202 or email: contact@elmhurstsymphony.org
• Star Wars Reads Celebration. Presented by the Elmhurst Public Library from 11 a.m.-3 p.m., journey to a galaxy far, far away to celebrate Star Wars Reads Month. Test your knowledge of the Force, design a droid, and celebrate your love of reading through other crafts, games, and activities. Costumes are encouraged! Free. No registration required. For more information, call 630-2798696 or email: reference@elmlib.org
Sunday, Oct. 6
Lecture: “Lights, Camera, Action: The History of Chicago Film.” From 2-3 p.m. presented by the Elmhurst History Museum and being held at Elmhurst City Hall (209 N. York St.), Chicago played a key role in the early days of film, from production studios to equipment to marketing. Recently retired University of Chicago Cinema and Media Studies Professor, Judy Hoffman, explores Chicago’s film history and considers whether there is a “Chicago Style” of cinema. The lecture is free for members, $5 for nonmembers. For more information, call 630833-1457.
Tuesday, Oct. 15
GreenMan Theatre presents Spooky Stories. From 7-8:30 p.m. at the Elmhurst Public Library, hear a collection of spine-chilling stories in a reader’s theater performance from GreenMan Theatre. The event is free—live in-person and on Zoom.
Registration is required. For more information, call 630-279-8696 or email: reference@elmlib.org
Elmhurst Farmers Market
Recurring weekly on Wednesdays through Oct. 30 from 7 a.m.-1 p.m. on Vallette, just east of York, an Elmhurst community jewel offering a wide variety of farmers, vendors, and
more with free parking. For more information, email: info@elmhurstfarmersmarket.com
Elmhurst History Museum Info: elmhursthistory.org.
Elmhurst Art Museum Info: 630-834-0202 or visit elmhurstartmuseum.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.
Criminal damage to property
Sept. 13
A victim in the 200 block of E. Second reported at 8:54 p.m. that an unknown suspect(s) broke a glass window pane on her front door.
Domestic battery, disorderly conduct, domestic incident, dispute, disturbance
Sept. 18
Police said that subsequent to a report of a disturbance in the 200 block of E. First at 6:55 p.m., a victim stated that the suspect, who is from Elmhurst, had previously pointed a rifle at her and prevented her from using the telephone to call the police for help. The suspect was charged with aggravated unlawful restraint, intimidation-physical harm, aggravated assault-use deadly weapon and interfering with the reporting of domestic violence.
Sept. 8
A complainant in the 200 block of S. Route 83 reported being battered by her husband on the above date, but due to conflicting statements and lack of evidence, no arrests were made. However, after further investigation, a warrant was obtained for the suspect for domestic battery. On Sept. 15, a traffic stop was conducted on the suspect’s vehicle. The suspect was taken into custody, transported to the police department, processed on a warrant for domestic battery and transported to the DuPage County Jail.
DUI, consumption of alcohol by a minor
Sept. 17
Police said that subsequent to a traffic stop near York and Grantley at 1:30 a.m., it was found there was open alcohol inside the vehicle. Ian Rennert, 22, of Chicago, was charged with illegal transportation of alcohol by a passenger. Evan Haynes, 26, of Chicago, was charged with illegal transportation of alcohol by a passenger. Christopher Jackson, 18, of Elmhurst, was charged with illegal consumption of liquor by a person under 21.
Sept. 16
Omar Villegas, 36, of Des Plaines, was charged with aggravated DUI, aggravated driving while license revoked, two counts of endangering the life of a child, failure to secure a child under the age of 8, improper turn, improper lane usage and no insurance subsequent to a traffic stop near York and Diversey at 3:28 a.m.
Sept. 15
Victor Lopez Uribe, 22, of Joliet, was charged with DUI, improper lane usage, possession of open alcohol and no insurance subsequent to a traffic stop near Lake and I-290 at 4:27 a.m.
Sept. 13
Johnathan Brown, 33, of Chicago, was charged with DUI, unlawful possession of cannabis by a driver, speeding no insurance and no seat belt subsequent to a traffic stop near York and Grand at 12:16 p.m.
Police said that subsequent to a report of a reckless driver near Lake and West at 9:35 p.m., a reporting officer located the suspect’s vehicle in a nearby driveway, with the driver slumped behind the wheel. According to police, Calvin Hill, 88, of Elmhurst, was found to be driving under the influence of alcohol. Hill was charged with DUI, no valid driver’s license, no insurance and improper lane usage.
Fleeing, eluding
According to information provided last week by the Elmhurst Police Department, police reported one incident of fleeing and eluding during which the driver of a vehicle fled the scene after being stopped for a traffic stop by police.
Harassment, threats
Sept. 17
A complainant in the 100 block of N. Caroline reported at 1:40 p.m. that the suspect is an ex-coworker who was still contacting her after she asked him not to. An officer spoke with the suspect and advised him to no longer have any contact with the complainant.
Sept. 15
A complainant in the 600 block of W. North reported at 3:03 a.m. that a suspect threatened to harm her following a verbal argument. No complaints were signed.
Sept. 14
A victim in the 800 block of S. Bryan reported he received numerous threatening text messages from an unknown suspect. The victim later received a phone call from an unknown suspect, demanding money and threatening his family.
Sept. 12
A victim at Elmhurst Hospital reported she received a threatening video call from her soon to be ex-husband.
Identity theft, fraud
According to information provided by the Elmhurst Police Department, police reported four incidents of identity theft or fraud.
Suspicious incident
Sept. 14
Police said that subsequent to a call of a man trespassing on railroad property, officers located Albert Burrus, 21, of Elmhurst, who fled on foot. The suspect was taken into protective custody and was charged with trespass to railroad property and resisting arrest.
Sept. 13
A reporting officer met with a complainant near Butterfield and Kent at 9:03 p.m. who reported she was driving with her ex-boyfriend seated in the passenger seat. The complainant related they were arguing when her ex-boyfriend reached for the steering wheel, causing her to stop abruptly. The ex-boyfriend exited the vehicle and walked away. No complaints were signed due to conflicting statements and no signs of injuries. Both parties agreed to separate.
Sept. 12
A complainant at a rental company in the 600 block of N. Larch told police that while out for a road test of a truck with a suspect, the suspect asked her if she wanted to go in the back of the truck and have sex with him. The suspect denied requesting sex from the complainant.
Theft, burglary, attempted theft or burglary, forgery, deceptive practice, obstruction, robbery
Sept. 18
Nicholas Lykins, 28, of Berwyn, was charged with burglary and two counts of retail theft at a pharmacy in the 100 block of N. Robert Palmer at 2:37 p.m. Police said a complainant related the suspect walked out of the pharmacy with a basket containing unpaid merchandise. Xavier Miller, 38, of Chicago, was charged with retail theft at 2:38 p.m. Police said Miller took merchandise and exited the pharmacy without paying.
A complainant told police that an unknown suspect(s) took his personal belongings out of his work truck while it was parked in the 600 block of N. Larch.
Sept. 16
A complainant at a restaurant in the 100 block of N. York reported that an unknown suspect described as a Hispanic male stole online food orders that were waiting to be picked up. The unknown male left the area in a blue GMC Arcadia.
A victim in the 800 block of S. Route 83 reported that her bag was stolen from her storage unit.
Sept. 14
Cesar Ochoa Lopez, 39, of Addison, was issued citations for unlawful use of registration and operating an unregistered motor vehicle subsequent to a traffic stop near Grand and York at 3:26 a.m.
Sept. 13
Police said that subsequent to a report of a suspicious person at Elmhurst Hospital at 1:44 p.m., the complainant reported an unknown suspect used a jack to lift a vehicle and look underneath. The suspect dropped the vehicle and left the scene in gray Kia SUV. Upon further investigation, it was discovered two catalytic converters were stolen from two vehicles.
A front license plate was also stolen.
A victim reported a package that had been delivered was taken from the hallway in a condominium building in the 100 block of Fellows at 2:15 p.m.
A victim reported at 7:09 p.m. he misplaced his wallet while visiting an entertainment center in the 300 block of W. Lake. The victim’s wallet was later located by a staff member, but cash was missing. Staff members reviewed video footage that reportedly shows an unknown female picking up an item from the
area where the wallet was found and exiting the building.
Sept. 4
Police said an unknown suspect at a store in the 500 block of S. York stole several lottery tickets from the store at 1:02 p.m.
Aug. 20
A complainant in the 300 block of W. Lake told police they were missing both the front and rear license plates on a medical van that they had taken to an auto shop for service. The auto shop in Elgin stated the vehicle came to them without plates. The license plates were entered into LEADS.
Warrant arrest
Sept. 19
Police said Nicholas Diaz, 29, of Elmhurst, was found to have an active warrant out of DuPage County subsequent to a traffic stop near Quincy and Kent at 2:40 a.m. Diaz also was charged with unlawful possession of controlled substance, possession of drug paraphernalia, improper display of registration and no insurance.
Sept. 13
Police said Curtis Riverside, 33, of Melrose Park, turned himself in on a warrant out of the DuPage County Sheriff’s Office and pending charges from an Elmhurst obstructing identification case. Riverside was charged with obstructing identification and driving while license suspended.
U.S. Bank robbery suspect in custody
Suspect reportedly committed two robberies at the same Elmhurst location on York Street
On Tuesday, Sept. 17, members of the Elmhurst, Park Ridge and Franklin Park Police Departments assisted special agents of the FBI with the execution of a search warrant at a home in Franklin Park in relation to recent suburban bank robberies—including two in Elmhurst—and took a subject into custody.
According to the Elmhurst Police Department, the execution of last week’s search warrant in Franklin Park was related to incidents that occurred at the U.S. Bank, 536 S. York Street, Elmhurst, on Dec. 16, 2023 and June 13 of this year.
During the December robbery, a weapon was implied but not displayed. During the June robbery, the suspect displayed a handgun.
A similar suspect reportedly committed additional bank robberies in Park Ridge and Niles in August 2024. An investigation was conducted by the FBI and local agencies, resulting in the identification of the suspect, who is alleged to have committed several bank robberies in the Chicago suburbs over a one-year period.
The 24-year-old suspect, German Campos Jr., was taken into custody without incident and was transported to the Elmhurst Police Department for further investigation.
On Sept. 20, the Elmhurst Police Department related that the FBI charged Campos with two federal counts of bank robbery, and that Campos was in custody at the Metropolitan Correctional Center in Chicago.
In its statement about the arrest, the Elmhurst Police Department thanked the FBI for its “strong investigation of these cases and partnership in bringing these events to closure.”
Secretary of State warns Illinoisans of high-tech financial scams
Illinois Secretary of State Alexi Giannoulias is issuing a warning to Illinois residents that scammers are leveraging new sophisticated technology to gain access to personal information and financial accounts.
“Artificial intelligence (AI) has made it more difficult for people to determine if requests coming from an email, text, phone call or even a video message are legitimate,” Giannoulias said. “Voice cloning and deepfake videos, used to fraudulently gain access and trust, are becoming more prevalent. Our Securities Department has been tasked with educating and protecting investors against these advanced scam attempts.”
The Illinois Secretary of State regulates the securities and investment advisory industries in Illinois and pursues an enforcement program designed to protect Illinois investors from those engaged in unlawful investment-related activities. The office is planning to conduct a series of public meetings later this fall to provide more details on how to detect deceptive scams and how to avoid them.
The advanced technology avail-
able allows scammers to broaden the threat posed beyond those who are unaware or vulnerable. Even the most cautious consumers are at risk of financial losses from enhanced AI-powered fraud attempts aimed at luring victims by promising quick profits with no risk.
“Financial scams can be as damaging emotionally as they are economically because of the betrayal of trust and feelings of embarrassment,” said Securities Department Director Chet Taylor. “Not only have I witnessed people falling victim to these types of scams, but I hear stories everyday of people who have had their lives completely altered because they trusted the wrong person.”
Giannoulias is raising awareness about these scams and encouraging the public to approach these requests with a healthy amount of skepticism so they can avoid giving out their personal identifiable information (PII), losing money or inadvertently squandering their life savings. The most prolific scams include:
• Deepfakes. Criminals have used AI to send dupe emails for several years, but recently have begun cre-
Court grants state’s motion to deny pre-trial release for man accused of sexually abusing Uber driver
ating audio and video messages that impersonate real people to commit fraud. The visual and/or auditory likeness of senior bank officials, investment firm employees, government officials and even family members have been generated to deceive people into sending money to fraudulent accounts.
• Romance scams. Perpetrators connect with the victim through social media or a dating app to slowly build a relationship through repeated virtual interactions before making emotional appeals for money.
• Ponzi schemes. Criminals create fake investments involving large numbers of investors—commonly with digital currency. The perpetrator typically creates fake account statements showing investments but when new funding dries up, the scheme collapses.
• Affinity scams. Scammers seek to gain the trust of a group of people they claim to be part of, such as a religious group or an ethnic group, and then exploit that trust by selling fraudulent investments. Investing it-
self comes with risks, but there are a few simple steps prospective investors can take:
• Validate identities. E-mails, texts, phone calls and video messages can be used to manufacture identities to more easily gain access to personal or financial information. Prospective investors should always validate the sender’s identity and their claims of representing an organization or company. They should also ask questions that have answers that are not publicly available.
• Check their record. Prospective investors can make sure the person offering an investment opportunity is licensed by visiting BrokerCheck or Investment Adviser Public Disclosure to check their license status and disciplinary record.
• Avoid untrusted sources. Clicking on links or opening attachments from suspicious or untrusted sources should always be avoided. Before clicking on a link, it is recommended that the user hovers over the URL or website address to determine if it is a legitimate link. If a person receives
a call requesting money or personal information, they should ask to call back and take time to confirm the caller’s legitimacy. It is recommended that individuals call the claimed source’s trusted number, especially if it differs from the number that called them to request information.
• Protect digital/social media accounts. All individuals should strengthen their control over their accounts by boosting security settings, creating strong login credentials and protecting devices with anti-virus software.
• Trust your gut. If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is. All individuals should be wary of unsolicited sources that promise easy money.
• Report scams. Individuals can report scams to the Illinois Secretary of State’s Securities Division by calling (800) 628-7937 or visiting www.ilsos.gov/departments/securities. The office will investigate the report and bring cases against those responsible for frauds, scams and other bad business practices.
Chenna Borra
DuPage County State’s Attorney Robert Berlin and ISP Division of Criminal Investigation Zone 1 Commander Andrew Anselm have announced that Judge Joshua Dieden granted the state’s motion to deny pre-trial release for a Schaumburg man accused of sexually abusing an Uber driver Sept. 18.
Chenna Borra, 30, appeared at First Appearance Court and was charged with one count of aggravated battery in a public place (Class 3 felony) and one count of criminal sexual abuse (Class 4 felony).
On Sept. 18 at approximately 9:20 a.m., the victim, a female Uber driver, allegedly picked up the defendant from an address in Aurora. It is alleged that after loading luggage into the trunk of the vehicle, Borra entered the front passenger seat of the vehicle.
It is further alleged that within a few minutes of entering I-88 westbound from Route 59, Borra grabbed the woman’s chin and squeezed her cheek. It is alleged that after the victim told Borra to stop, he pointed to the woman’s chest and squeezed the victim’s right breast. It is further alleged once they reached their destination in Schaumburg, Borra exited the vehicle, retrieved his luggage from the trunk and left.
The victim then called 911 to report the alleged encounter. Borra was taken into custody following an investigation conducted by the Illinois State Police.
“ They (ridesharing drivers) do not need the added stress of having to worry about their personal safety and my office will do whatever we can to protect these hardworking individuals from harm.”
– Robert Berlin, DuPage County State’s Attorney
“Within a matter of hours of beginning its investigation, ISP special agents were able to present the case against Borra to the DuPage County State’s Attorney’s Office,” said ISP Division of Criminal Investigation Zone 1 Commander Andrew Anselm. “Quick work by ISP, the Schaumburg Police Department, and the State’s Attorney’s Office can help bring justice for this victim.”
Borra’s next court appearance is scheduled for Oct. 15 for arraignment in front of Judge Joseph Bugos.
“The allegations against Mr. Borra are extremely disturbing,” Berlin said. “Ridesharing drivers have a difficult enough job with odd hours and at times driving in areas unfamiliar to them. They do not need the added stress of having to worry about their personal safety and my office will do whatever we can to protect these hard-working individuals from harm. I commend the victim in this case for bringing this matter to the attention of law enforcement. I thank the Illinois State Police as well as the Schaumburg Police Department for their quick response and efforts in identifying and apprehending the defendant in this case.”
Viewpoint
Slices of life
Guard your thoughts
“A quiet mind makes way for the soul to speak.”--Me
The mind is an abundant entity - spewing, spawning, spilling, speaking, squeaking, splaying, spraying, saying, replaying, spouting, sprouting, shouting, rerouting, doubting and outing our thoughts, often in ways that seem beyond our control.
Just today, I was about to run to the store, but thought about something I wanted to do beforehand. Then I rinsed out my coffee cup and my mind had already moved onto a whole new topic and I’d forgotten what task, exactly, I needed to do before leaving.
Perplexing.
You might say my thoughts got away from me.
It happens quite often. All the time. Especially at night and in the wee hours of the morning. I fight against it but it is a constant battle.
It’s almost as if my mind has a mind of its own. It’s working against me - or maybe for me. Or with me.
Or maybe a little of all three. I’m guessing none of you reading this can relate to this phenomenon - written with a wry sense of sarcasm.
All of you, surely, are always and totally in control of every one of your thoughts. They are orderly and they make sense. You never think of pink cotton candy when you are supposed to be considering whether to put orange or yellow cheese sauce atop the green broccoli. Your thoughts are always on point. I wish I could say the same.
The mind is a curious thing. It is part of you, but it seems to operate on its own.
The rest of your physical body doesn’t operate under these terms. Your arms carry the grocery bags home from the store. When you have an itch on the tip of your nose, your fingers scratch that exact spot. Your legs walk, one foot in front of the other to get you from point A to point B.
But your mind? It wanders wherever it wants to go.
That’s why awareness is so important. Your mind will tell you things that, in all honesty, it shouldn’t. It will tell you people don’t like you. Or that you aren’t good enough, or nice enough or whatever enough. It will tell you to judge others for their ugly T-shirt or ugly hair or ugly car. It will lead in you places that are scary, threatening and dire. Your mind accentuates your faults. It dwells
By JILL PERTLER Columnist
upon your weaknesses. It forces you into dark corners. Your mind will tell you things that are not true.
This doesn’t always happen. But it can, and it often does when you least expect it. When you aren’t aware.
Your thoughts are valuable. They are precious. They are priceless. They can sway off course and go off track without your ever noticing. And they can affect you in the most significant of ways. That is why it is important to guard them. To guard your thoughts. To protect them like they are a treasured possession, because they are.
You are your thoughts. It seems so simple, but negative thoughts breed negative actions and negative feelings. Positive thoughts have the opposite effect.
It may sound easy to choose positive thoughts. But remember, the mind has a mind of its own.
Choosing our thoughts is a minute by minute, moment by moment endeavor. It is neverending. 24/7. Even in your sleep.
But you know what? Thoughts can become habits. And habits become easier with time.
Recognizing a negative thought is the first step into turning away from it and finding a positive one. The more you turn negative into positive, the more natural it will become. Say the positive out loud (even a whisper will do) if that makes it easier at first. Soon it won’t take any thought at all.
Practice guarding your thoughts, and soon that guard duty won’t seem so intensive. Soon it will come naturally.
Negativity is all around us, waiting to pounce and it may seem overwhelming at times. One of the most valuable possessions we have to fight against any negativity is our own thoughts. Guard yours like the treasure they are and you will find the peace within that has been waiting patiently..
Then your mind will only wonder one thing:
What took me so long?
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.
The end of money bond is facilitating a public health approach to substance use
By Jen Nagel-Fischer
As we mark the anniversary of Illinois’ landmark Pretrial Fairness Act, it’s essential to recognize how this transformative legislation advances racial equity, especially for black and brown communities disproportionately impacted by money bond, incarceration, and the criminalization of drugs.
For years, the legal system has targeted these communities, trapping individuals in pretrial detention simply because they couldn’t afford bail. Money bond has been a key driver of racial disparities, with black and brown individuals disproportionately incarcerated at staggering rates for minor offenses compared to white individuals. The Pretrial Fairness Act disrupts this pattern, providing much-needed reform.
By eliminating money bonds, the Pretrial Fairness Act removes a barrier that kept thousands— most of whom had not yet been convicted of a crime—detained for months or years simply due to lacking financial resources to pay a money bond. This reform isn’t just about economic justice; it’s a victory for racial justice, keeping families together and preserving livelihoods in communities long devastated by over-policing and mass incarceration.
Pretrial reform is especially crucial for people who use drugs, many of whom are black and brown. Jails have served as makeshift
treatment centers, though they are anything but therapeutic. People in jail are eight times more likely to use drugs than the general population, yet less likely to receive proper care. Forced withdrawal and lack of access to medications for opioid use disorder (MOUD) make incarceration deadly, particularly for people who use opioids. These individuals are at a much higher risk of fatal overdose upon release, a cycle that disproportionately harms black and brown people.
In fact, drug overdose is the leading cause of death among those recently released from prison. A study found that people recently released from state prison are 129 times more likely to die from an overdose than those in the general public. For those incarcerated who use opioids, the risk is even higher. These tragic outcomes reveal how jails exacerbate, rather than alleviate, the dangers of drug use. And in Illinois, where sheriffs state there are staffing shortages in facilities like Lake County’s correctional division are already severe, providing even minimal care is a challenge, let alone comprehensive treatment.
Critics argue that pretrial release prevents people from getting the help they need, suggesting that incarceration is the best way to force mandatory abstinence or treatment. However, research shows that compulsory treatment fails to produce lasting results. A 2016
meta-analysis found that mandating abstinence-based treatment does not significantly reduce drug use or crime. In fact, it often leads to worse outcomes, including increased rates of fatal overdose following release.
Jails are dehumanizing environments, isolating individuals from the support they need to heal. Forcing mandatory abstinence in such settings doesn’t address the underlying trauma and social conditions that drive drug use. Instead, people need voluntary access to community-based care, which is why the Pretrial Fairness Act—and its companion, the Pretrial Success Act—is so vital.
The Pretrial Success Act represents a crucial investment in voluntary, community-based services for people who use drugs and those with mental health conditions. Rather than subjecting individuals to the dehumanization of incarceration, the Success Act allows for comprehensive care in a community setting by providing wraparound services such as transportation, housing, and childcare. These life-stabilizing resources are key to promoting long-term recovery and stability, particularly for those already marginalized by systemic racism and economic inequality.
This holistic approach acknowledges that true equity cannot be achieved through
You must bring your colored�in pumpkin to the Elmhurst Lions Club Pumpkin Patch, at Wild Meadows Trace Park, 511 S York St, Elmhurst, between South ST and Vallette, Deliver it into designated, secured mailbox located by the Lion ’s paybox.
14th and the 20th
DuPAGE DESTINATIONS
Dining & Entertainment Guide to the Western Suburbs
Haunted houses in and around DuPage County; visit them … if you dare
13th Floor Haunted House—5050 River Road, Schiller Park. Open on selected nights through Nov. 9. Premium valet parking is offered by One Spot O’Hare Airport Parking, located at 9500 River St, Schiller Park, right next to the haunted house. For more information, visit: https://13thfloorchicago.com.
Basement of the Dead and Shattered 3D Haunted House Aurora Takes place in a 121-year-old building that will give you the chills. Open now through Nov. 6. Purchasing tickets online will guarantee you entry and will be cheaper than buying at the door. For more information, call 630-896-2466 or visit: https://basementofthedead.com/.
Disturbia Haunted House Chicago—1213 Butterfield Road, Downers Grove. Open now through Nov. 3. Free parking, restrooms/porta potties onsite, food/concessions, gift shop/souvenirs, special events
and a “hi-tech” attraction. You will not be touched. You are encouraged to purchase tickets online. For more information, times and ticket prices, visit; https://hauntedhousedisturbia. com/.
Evil Intentions 45W050 Beith Road, Maple Park—Open from Oct. 4 through Nov. 2 at 7 p.m. Evil Intentions Haunted House has moved from Elgin and has snagged its insidious roots in the grounds of Forsaken Hollow in Maple Park near Routes 47 and 64. For more information and ticket prices, visit: https://eihaunt. com
HellsGate Haunted House—3101 Canal Street, Lockport. Open now through Nov. 2. Parking located at 301 W. 2nd St., Lockport. Buses shuttle to/from there. You must park here! HellsGate is a multi-level mansion deep in the woods. General ad-
See HAUNTED HOUSES, Page 13
DuPage County to offer energy assistance beginning Oct. 1
DuPage County will provide energy assistance funds to help income-eligible households with their natural gas, propane, electric bills, and furnace repairs beginning next month.
The Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) offers one-time help to income-eligible homeowners and renters. This can help pay energy bills or restore shut off energy services.
LIHEAP customers of Nicor Gas will also get a monthly discount on their natural gas bills through the new Low-Income Discount Rates.
DuPage County Community Services will start taking applications Oct. 1 for adults aged 60 or older, individuals with disabilities, families with children under the age of 5, and households that have had their utilities disconnected or have received a disconnection notice.
Residents can make an in-person appointment starting Sept. 17 by calling Community Services at (630) 407-6500 or (800) 942-9412. Appointments will begin on Oct. 1. All other income-eligible households can apply starting Nov. 1.
To qualify, household income must be at or below 200 percent of the federal poverty level. Income limits can be
found online at www.dupagecounty. gov/liheap. To apply, you will need to provide:
• Proof of household income from the past 30 days.
• Social Security Numbers (SSN) or Individual Taxpayer Identification Numbers (ITIN) for all household members (you can still apply if you don’t have an SSN or ITIN).
• A copy of your current heat and electric bills within the last 30 days.
• If you rent, a copy of your rental agreement that shows utilities are included, the rent amount, and your landlord’s contact info.
• Other documents may be needed based on your situation. Applications will be accepted on a first-come, first-serve basis through Aug. 15, 2025, or until the funding runs out. Applications will be accepted at DuPage County Community Services, 421 N. County Farm Road, Wheaton, and at the following offices:
• Access DuPage/DuPage Health Coalition—511 Thornhill Drive, Unit C, Carol Stream; (630) 510-8720
• Addison Township—401 Addison Road, Addison; (630) 530-8161
• Bloomingdale Township—123 Rosedale Ave, Bloomingdale; (630) 529-7715
DuPage Desitnations
Your Dining & Entertainment Guide to the Western Suburbs
• Haunted houses
mission: $40 plus fees online; $45 plus fees on site. For times, ticket prices and more information, visit: www.hellsgate.com.
Hayride of Horror/Curse of the Bayou—199 E. Woods Drive (Dellwood Park), Lockport. Open from 7-10 p.m. Oct. 4-5, 11-12, 18-20 and 25-27 Admission: From $15. For more information visit: www.lockportpark. org/HayrideOfHorror/curseofthebayou.
Massacre Haunted House—299 Montgomery Road, Montgomery. Open now through Nov. 2. Newly renovated every year and ready to deliver the scares, The Massacre offers over 30,000 square feet of sheer nightmares for your enjoyment. General admission: $34.99. Fast pass: $49.99. For tickets and more information, visit: https://fearthemassacre.com/.
Midnight Terror Haunted House—5520 W. 111th St., Oak Lawn, located on the north side of 111th across the street from Chapel Hill Garden South Cemetery in Oak Lawn. Midnight Terror’s expansive playground progresses throughout 26,000 square feet. Open now through Nov. 3 and Nov. 8-9 (clown takeover) starting at 7 p.m. For tickets and more information, visit: https://midnightterrorhauntedhouse.com/.
Nightmare on Chicago Street, Elgin—From 6-11 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 19, The City of Elgin is gearing up for another unforgettable Nightmare on Chicago Street. Presented by the Zombie Defense Initiative, this year’s event promises an experience like no other. Special guest: MeTV’s Svengoolie. This event is for adults 17-and-older. Those under 17 are admitted with, and must remain with, a parent or guard-
• Downers Grove Township—4340 Prince St., Downers Grove; (630) 7196610
• Lisle Township—4711 Indiana Ave., Lisle; (630) 968-2087
• Loaves & Fishes—1871 High Grove Lane, Naperville; (630) 3553663
• Naperville Township—139 Water St., Naperville; (630) 355-2444
• People’s Resource Center—201 S. Naperville Road, Wheaton; (630) 6825402
• Winfield Township—130 Arbor Ave., West Chicago; (630) 231-3573
• Milton Township—1492 N. Main St., Wheaton; (630) 653-5220
(Continued from page 12)
ian at all times. For more information, visit: www.nightmareonchicagostreet. com.
Silverwood Screams—461 Silverwood Court, Winfield. Open at dusk until 10 p.m. now through Oct. 31. Do you have the courage to enter Silverwood Court and confront the horrors that await you? For tickets and more information, visit: www.illinoishauntedhouses.com/halloween/ silverwood-screams-il.html.
Terror Roulete—The Arboretum of South Barrington at the corners of Route 59 and 72, just north of I-90. Open now through Oct. 31 at 6:45 p.m. This is a terrifying encounter where thrill-seekers willingly surrender themselves to the sadistic whims of fate. A twisted game of fear, where boundaries are shattered, and nightmares become an unsettling reality. For more information and tickets, visit: https://terrorroulette.com.
The Old Joliet Haunted Prison—401 Woodruff Road, Joliet. Open now on selected nights through Nov. 2 at 7 p.m. The Old Joliet Haunted Prison is Chicago’s only haunt inside a real abandoned prison. Ticket prices start at $29.99. For more information, visit: https://hauntedprison.com
Undead Acres—3450 W. Crete Monee Road, Monee (Santa Fe Landscaping & Nursery): Open every Friday, Saturday and Sunday through Nov. 2. Join us on a zombie hunting safari, wielding your trusty paintball gun against the legions of undead. Will you survive? Admission: $30 per person credit; $25 per person cash includes 80 paintballs, gun rental and unlimited compressed air. For more information, visit: www.undeadacres.com.
• Wayne Township—27W031 North Ave., West Chicago; (630) 231-7140
• West Suburban Community Pantry—6809 Hobson Valley Drive, #118, Woodridge; (630) 512-9921
• York Township—1052 S. Meyers Road, Lombard; (630) 627-3354
For more information, visit www. dupagecounty.gov/liheap or liheapillinois.com
Shift in DMV facility hours announced
Illinois Secretary of State Alexi Giannoulias announced a change in DMV facility operating hours across the state next week to align with higher customer demand in the morning.
Beginning Monday, Sept. 23, Illinois DMV locations will be open to customers Monday through Friday from 7:30 a.m. to 5 p.m., a half an hour earlier than the previous hours of 8 a.m.-5:30 p.m. Facilities that offer services on Saturday will also change hours from 8 a.m.-12:30 p.m. to 7:30 a.m. to noon on Saturdays.
Senior facilities located in Addison, Bridgeview, Calumet Park,
Evanston and Westchester will remain the same 7:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday-Friday. The Roscoe Express DMV will stay open 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Wednesday-Friday and the Orland Township DMV hours will remain 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday-Friday.
“Since Day One, our priority has been to provide the best possible DMV experience and service to our customers,” Giannoulias said. “We listened to feedback and analyzed the data to determine when our customers need us most. As a result, we’re adjusting our hours to align our operations with their busy schedules so they can conveniently access
services without disrupting their routine.”
A data-driven analysis revealed customer demand is generally higher in the morning than in the early evening. By opening facilities earlier, the office aims to enhance service accessibility while reducing wait times.
The new facility hours will be implemented at most, but not all, Illinois DMV facilities. To check facility hours, make an appointment or apply for online services, customers are encouraged to visit www.ilsos.gov. Lombard hours:
Monday-Friday, 7:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Saturday, 7:30 a.m. to noon.
Worship Services Directory
779 S. York Street Elmhurst, IL 630-834 -6700 www.visitationparish.org
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 Wednesday Service at 7pm
“The Crucial Hours”
Second Lenten Service March 9, 2022
Rev. David Ernest “Satan Has Asked to Sift All of You” Jerusalem Lutheran, Morton Grove Matthew 27:15-26
Adult Bible Study Wednesdays after Service Saturday, September 28, Game Night at 4 pm
Third Lenten Service March 16, 2022
Rev. Paul Spaude “What to Remember When Your are St. Matthews, Niles Seized with Remorse” Matthew 27:3-4
Everyone is Welcome! All services are live streamed. Watch on our website or on Facebook. sainttimothy.org
Fourth Lenten Service March 23, 2022
Rev. Jonathan Bergemann “I Will Keep the Passover” Good Shepherd, Downers Grove Matthew 26:18
Weekend Masses: Saturday: 4 PM (Vigil) Sunday: 7:30, 9:30 & 11:30 AM and 6 PM
Fifth Lenten Service March 30, 2022
Rev. Tom Nicholson “They Bound Him” Resurrection, Aurora John 18:12
Sixth Lenten Service April 6, 2022
Rev. Phil Schupmann “The Semblance of Legality” Resurrection, Aurora Luke 22:66
Daily Masses: Monday—Friday: 6:15 and 8:15 AM Saturday: 8:15 AM
Confessions: Saturday: 3-3:45PM
Maundy Thursday Communion 7 p.m., April 14
Good Friday Tenebrae 7 p.m., April 15
Easter Sunrise 6:30 a.m., April 17
Easter Breakfast 8 a.m., April 17
Adoration: Available in Our Lady Mother of the Eucharist Chapel 24/7
Easter Festival 10:15 a.m., April 17
Sport S
York girls tennis team wins Bison invitational for fourth year in a row
Isaynov commits to Division I
University of Illinois
By Mike Miazga CORRESPONDENT
The news has been good on and off the courts recently for the York girls tennis team.
Coach Kara Dollaske’s team sported a 10-6 overall mark and recently won the Bison invitational team title for the fourth year in a row. York also was 1-1 in its first two West Suburban Conference Silver Division dual meets.
“Working together in the recent Buffalo Grove Bison invite was classic Dukes tennis,” Dollaske said. “All 14 players contributed in the tournament even though only six players are needed for this invite style. Our team has always been about the full team contributing to the overall success.”
Off the court, York No. 1 singles standout Lizzie Isyanov recently committed to the University of Illinois to play NCAA Division I tennis.
“The whole program gathered to celebrate her news and the varsity had some extra fun celebrating her announcement by decking out in all Illini gear,” Dollaske explained.
Back on the court, Isaynov recorded a key No. 1 singles win against New Trier recently. Through mid-September Isaynov was undefeated, as was Sophia Filip. Sisters Josie and CJ Coan had lost only two doubles matches through mid-September, both coming to potentially top state-finisher teams, Dollaske noted.
Dollaske lauded the recent efforts of Lizzy Boychuck, Claudia Clark, Rosie DeCristofaro and Olivia Allen.
“Lizzy, Claudia, Rosie and Olivia
have all stepped up into some first and second positions of late and have made big contributions to the team,” Dollaske said. “There is a lot of experience in this group and we also have a lot of new players to varsity. The captains have really made an effort to incorporate team building and bonding into the overall team vibes. The group is really starting to gel and it’s very exciting.”
York football week 5 preview
Hinsdale Central (2-2, 0-1) at York (4-0, 1-0)
When: Friday, 7:30 p.m.
Last year: York 38, Hinsdale Central 10
Outlook: Both teams are coming off Week 4 wins. Hinsdale Central, after losing 21-16 at home to Lyons Township, pounded Morton 56-0 in a West Suburban Conference crossover last week. For York, the beat goes on. The Dukes, ranked fourth in the state in Class 8A in the most recent Associated Press state poll, opened WSC Silver play with a 42-21 win over Oak Park-River Forest. York has scored 35 or more points in its last three games. Central is coming off a 3-6 season in 2023.
IC Catholic Prep football week 5 preview
Chicago Marist (3-1) at IC Catholic Prep (2-2)
When: Friday, 7:30 p.m.
Last year: ICCP 28, Marist 21 Outlook: We alluded to ICCP’s insane schedule last week. The Knights lost 33-0 in Week 4 against Class 5A No. 2 Nazareth Academy. Up next Friday, the No. 2-ranked team in Class 8A (as in the state’s largest classification) in Chicago Marist in this Chicago Catholic League/East Suburban Catholic Conference crossover. Marist lost by a point last week to Class 5A No. 3 Joliet Catholic. Marist went 4-5 last season.
York girls tennis No. 1 singles standout Lizzie Isyanov recently committed to the University of Illinois to continue her academic and tennis careers. The entire York program gathered to celebrate the news and the varsity team had some extra fun celebrating her announcement
SUBMITTED PHOTOS Elmhurst Independent
The York girls tennis team recently won the Bison invitational tournament title at Buffalo Grove High School for the fourth year in a row.
Timothy Christian boys soccer team tackles tough schedule
IC Catholic Prep graduate Leslie headed to Le Moyne
Wise scores hat trick against Hope Academy
By Mike Miazga
CORRESPONDENT
Will play volleyball for Division II school
By Mike Miazga CORRESPONDENT
had an assist. Goalie Peter Buikema made four saves. In another 2-1 loss to WSC member Oak Park-River Forest, senior Timothy Nulty had a goal, while senior Maximus Timm had an assist.
to a 2-0 start in Chicagoland Christian Conference action.
created a ton of opportunities and other stretches where we really struggle to score.”
shutouts in the first nine games to go with a 0.60 goals against average.
Recent IC Catholic Prep gradu -
ate Bella Leslie wanted to head east for college.
The Timothy Christian boys soccer team went through a recent stretch of its schedule against larger, Class 3A schools. In a 2-1 loss to West Suburban Conference entrant Leyden, senior Owen Wise had a goal, while senior Tung Yang
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.
By Mike Miazga
CORRESPONDENT
I feel like I would be so bored without it because it has been such a big part of my life.”
Leslie said she has plenty of memories from IC Catholic Prep’s coach Nancy Kerrigan’s program.
Buikema made five saves. In a 2-0 loss to York, Buikema made five saves. Timothy also went to a 4-4 non-conference draw with Lake Park, yet another Class 3A foe and tied 3A Lincolnshire Stevenson 0-0. The Trojans were 5-4-3 overall through their first 12 games and off
In one of those conference wins against Chicago Hope Academy, Wise had a hat trick with three goals to go with one assist. Through the first nine games of the season, Wise was leading the team with seven goals and three assists, while junior Ben Schroeder had three goals and two assists. Senior Trevor Munk had three goals as well. “Our offense is a work in progress,” Timothy coach Joel Zielke said. “There have been moments where we have
On the other side of the field, Zielke said Timothy’s defense has been a highlight at the start of the season. He pointed out prior to a game against Class 3A York, the Trojans had a stretch of only conceding one goal (to Chicago Whitney Young) over seven games, including five consecutive shutouts. And one of the key contributors to that defensive prowess has been senior goalie Buikema, who had six
Zielke likes what he has seen so far and sees even bigger progress on the horizon. “We have had a tough stretch of 3A opponents,” Zielke said. “We have at times played some stretches of high-level soccer but are looking to be more consistent over the full 80 minutes, especially on the offensive end.” Timothy heads to Iowa at the end of the month to play in the Great River Classic.
York boys golf team moves to 8-2 in dual meets
Dukes defeat Downers North on fifth score tiebreaker
The York boys golf team’s strong play shows no signs of slowing down.
The Dukes upped their dual-meet record to 8-2 overall with three recent wins during a four-match stretch.
York scored a 152-152 fifth scorecard tiebreaker win over host Downers Grove North in West Suburban Conference Silver Division action. Collin Adelsbach led the Dukes with an even-par 36 after doubling his first hole, while Brendan Carroll shot
“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 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.”
1-over 37 after tripling his first hole. Blake Flessner and Anthony Giovannelli each shot 39. Will Huber and Hans Bjorlin each shot 40 to count for the fifth card. Downers North’s fifth scorecard was a 44.
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.”
The Dukes then dropped a 147-162 WSC Silver match to Lyons Township at Oakbrook Golf Club. Lyons shot 3-over par from the back tees as a team, “which is a great score for them,” York coach Jim Borel pointed out. In the LT match, Andrew Gumbach shot 40, as did Bjorlin. Carroll,
“ 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
Adelsbach, Gage Jacobs and Flessner each shot 41 and Sal Purpora shot 42. York then recorded a 154-157 non-conference win over Wheaton North at Arrowhead Golf Club in Wheaton. The match saw Wheaton North’s fourth player record a hole in one on the fourth hole. “We had a win over a very good Wheaton North team,” Borel said. “Their No. 4 player had a hole in one, so it was nice to overcome that accomplishment for the win.” Against Wheaton North, Jacobs and Bjorlin each shot 1-over
37s. Huber finished with a 39, while Carroll and Adelsbach each shot 41.
The Dukes then recorded a 158168 non-conference win over IC Catholic Prep at Maple Meadows in Wood Dale. Adelsbach shot 38 to lead the way, while Flessner shot 39 and Purpora shot 40. Gumbach finished with a 41 and Giovannelli shot 42. “It was a good crosstown rival win over a very good IC team,” Borel said.
Salgado records hat trick in
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.”
By Mike Miazga CORRESPONDENT
Leslie played volleyball and girls soccer at IC Catholic Prep all four years. She was a center-midfielder on the Knights soccer team.
The IC Catholic Prep boys soccer team recorded its first Chicago Catholic League White Division win of the season recently. In a 5-1 victory over St. Rita, Alan Salgado scored a hat trick (3 goals), while Filip Ciepiela had a goal and an assist in the win.
of our conference games.”
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.”
ICCP boys soccer win over St. Rita
Timothy Christian girls volleyball team defeats St. Francis
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.
Leslie said pandemic life hasn’t been overly exciting, though her club volleyball team has started practicing again. “We have been practicing two or three times a week,” she said. “We are going to be starting tournaments again. Before that I haven’t been doing anything because senior soccer season and the club volleyball season were cancelled. We were supposed to go to a few club volleyball qualifiers in Grand Rapids and Louisville. This summer, we have some tournaments planned over the next few weekends. They are little tournaments with all of the local clubs. Nothing large and really local. Other than that, I have been trying to work out a lot and stay in shape. I’ve been running a lot, so I got into that. I try and run every day.”
Madonia pointed out on the defensive end, with the exception of Tristan Salgado, the Knights’ entire back line is new. “With that being said, they are all starting to become more confident, organized and experienced each game,” she said. Madonia noted goalie Ben Erickson also continues to make progress. “Ben is starting to step up into the role of our starting varsity goalkeeper,” she said.
Timothy Christian girls volleyball
The Knights were 3-4 overall through their first seven games of the season. “We are starting to become more consistent with our performance,” ICCP assistant coach Bianca Madonia said. “It was great to see us create and score a lot of goals during the St. Rita game. It gave the boys confidence going into the rest
Leslie said she is scheduled to report to Le Moyne in the Aug. 1215 timeframe, but noted preseason volleyball activities already have
• Stopka (Continued from page 18)
Madonia added the Knights have their eyes on more CCL White wins. “We hope to win our side of the conference,” she said. “We believe we have a chance if we continue to improve and be consistent over the next few games.”
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.”
The Timothy Christian girls volleyball team notched four more recent wins to improve to 11-2 overall on the season. In a 25-11 25-15 Chicagoland Christian Conference win over Chicago Christian, Abby Vander Wal had five kills, five aces and four digs. Bella Potempa added three aces and seven digs. Ella Rickert had three kills. Audrey Williams finished with three kills and one block, while Jenna Wasco had three kills and two aces. Miriam PozdolNiego had one ace and two assists. Elizabeth Alex had 12 assists, two
See VOLLEYBALL , Page 18
In earlier action, the Dukes recorded a 144-203 WSC Silver win over Proviso West. Adelsbach shot a 1-under-par 34 at Maple Meadows, while Flessner shot 36. Giovannelli and Gumbach each had 37s, while Purpora shot 38, as did Henry Cabage. York also took fifth out of 19 teams at the Batavia invitational with a score of 306, its lowest 18-round effort of the season. Huber shot 74 and took 14th, while Carroll and Bjorlin each shot 77. Adelsbach and Flessner finished with 78s. “We’ve had some big wins these past few weeks,” Borel said.
In a 146-150 WSC Silver loss to Hinsdale Central at Hinsdale Country Club, Jacobs shot a 1-under-par 34,
while Carroll had a 38, followed by a bevy of teammates shooting 39 in the form of Bjorlin, Adelsbach, Purpora and Huber. “We lost at Hinsdale Country Club by only four strokes,” Borel noted. “Our kids played great, and it was a great high school golf match. I’m proud of how our kids are competing on the golf course against some of the best teams in the state. We currently have an 8-2 dual-meet record, which is quite an accomplishment.”
York plays in the WSC Silver meet this week. The Dukes went 4-2 in WSC Silver duals during the regular season. “We have a chance to win that and we’re looking forward to the IHSA regional and sectional meets in the next few weeks,” Borel said. Through late last week, Jacobs was leading the team in nine-hole average at 38.2, while Carroll was at 38.4 and Adelsbach was averaging 38.8. Bjorlin was averaging 39.3, while Huber and Gumbach were at 39.4. Purpora was at 39.7 and Flessner was averaging 39.8 for nine. York was averaging 153 as a team over nine holes.
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.”
By Mike Miazga CORRESPONDENT
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.”
ble and transparent and communicate with everybody.”
York boys cross country team off to strong start
The York boys cross country team got off to a fast start by winning the Joliet Steelman invitational title. York won it with 29 points. Lincoln-Way West was a distant second with 112 points. Emmett Bradford won the race, followed by a fifth place showing from Sam Kehoe. Carter Olsen finished sixth, Max Zangan eighth and Jack Sebastian ninth in an impressive performance.
York coach Charlie Kern noted Bradford’s time was the fourth-fastest for a York athlete since the Dukes started competing at this particular
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
Dukes win Joliet Steelman invite title; Bradford finishes first See CROSS COUNTRY, Page 18
meet in 2017. The news was equally positive at the sophomore level where Patrick Hill won the race by a whopping 35 seconds in 15:59, York’s first-ever freshman to bust the 16-minute mark on the Joliet course.
Fellow freshman Michael Gurgone took second, followed by sophomore Harrison Mantemach in third.
Sophomores Andrers Dochoff and Thomas Gonzalez finished fifth and sixth, respectively, to secure the team win for York in dominating fashion. In the open race, junior Ben Popilek won it, followed by senior Elias Lucier, junior Joseph Zbiegiel and senior Michael McEvoy to give York the
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
first four runners through the chute in Joliet.
Kern’s varsity squad returns all seven top runners form a year ago, but he cautioned there is fierce competition for a seat at that top seven table. Kehoe, Zangan, senior Zach Saltiel, senior Evan Zapata, Bradford and Olsen return from last year’s state team. Key newcomers to the team include senior Patrick McGrail, junior Ryker Harges, Lucier, senior Everett Sinson, Hill and Mantemach. “We have become much better at running together,” Kern said. “We do
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 EMMETT BRADFORD YORK BOYS CROSS COUNTRY
Bradford won the individual title at the recent Joliet Steelman invitational, helping the Dukes also secure the team title. York coach Charlie Kern noted Bradford’s time was the fourth-fastest for a York athlete since the Dukes started competing in this particular meet in 2017.
CHRIS FOX PHOTO Elmhurst Independent
Anthony Bucolo fires a pitch during a recent U12 baseball game.
baseball
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Attending a special Mass
Several members of the IC Catholic Prep community are pictured at the Diocese of Joliet’s 75th Anniversary Mass at Montini Catholic High School in Lombard on Saturday, Sept. 14. Bishop Ronald Hicks, Bishop Emeritus R. Daniel Conlon, local priests and deacons from several local parishes and over 750 guests from surrounding parishes attended the Mass. The diocese has held two special liturgies so far this year to celebrate its 75th anniversary. The first special liturgy was held at Bishop McNamara High School in Kankakee in June. Another special Mass to celebrate the anniversary will be held this Saturday, Sept. 28, at Lewis University in Romeoville.
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• Open house
(Continued from page 5)
safety demonstrations, blood pressure screenings, child passenger safety information, a bounce house for children, light refreshments, and more.
In addition to the event activities, attendees will have the chance to visit the new First Responders Memorial Plaza located at Fire Station #2. The centerpiece of the Elmhurst First Responders Memorial is the striking sculpture titled “Vestige” by artist Jason Peot. This abstract piece serves as a powerful tribute to the bravery and sacrifice of first responders. Composed of interwoven metal forms, including a beam from the World Trade Center gifted to the Elmhurst Fire Department by the New York Port Authority, “Ves-
• Volleyball
tige” symbolizes resilience and the enduring legacy of those who have dedicated their lives to protecting the community. Its intricate design allows light to pass through, creating dynamic shadows that change throughout the day, representing the timeless impact of first responders’ service. The sculpture stands as a solemn reminder of their courage, particularly in the wake of the September 11 attacks. Memorial bricks are still available for purchase to honor or remember loved ones, and more information will be available at the event. Parking will be available at the York Commons Pool parking lot, with handicapped parking and a shuttle service provided.
(Continued from page 15)
digs and one block, while Kate Vogelzang had one ace and three digs.
In a 25-17, 25-13 CCC win over Bishop McNamara, Vander Wal had nine kills, four aces and four digs. Potempa had seven kills, four digs and one ace, while Rickert had six kills. Williams finished with three kills. Wasco had three kills and three digs, while Pozdol-Niego had seven digs and Alex had 19 assists and two digs.
In a 25-17, 23-25, 25-16 win over Wheaton St. Francis, Vander Wal had 21 kills, nine digs and two aces. Rickert had nine kills, two aces and one block. Potempa had six kills, 10 digs
• Cross country
not have individuals who are all-state athletes, but if they run together, they could be among the top 10 teams in the state.”
and one ace. Williams had three kills. Wasco had one ace, one block and 11 digs. Pozdol-Niego finished with one ace, 14 digs and three assists, while Alex had 30 assists, four digs and one ace.
In a 25-18, 25-23 win over Rosary, Vander Wal had 13 kills, four digs and two aces. Potempa had four kills, five digs and two aces. Williams finished with four kills and one block. Rickert had three kills. Wasco added one ace, one block and seven digs. PozdolNiego had one ace and 12 digs and Alex had 19 assists, one dig and one ace.
(Continued from page 15)
In the early going, Kern has liked the progress Hill, Sinson and Bradford have made, in particular. “Patrick continues to get better each week,” Kern said. “Everett has spent a large portion of his career injured or returning from an injury. Currently, he is in our top seven. Emmett has established himself as our No. 1 runner and is a threat to be all-state this year.”
• Substance
(Continued from page 8)
punishment and incarceration. For too long, black and brown individuals have borne the brunt of prohibitionist drug policies, facing harsher penalties and less access to care than their white counterparts.
The Pretrial Fairness Act, combined with investments in community health, offers a new path forward— one that centers harm reduction and public health over criminalization.
Yet, the work is far from over. While Illinois has taken a crucial step, we must continue expanding behavioral health services, overdose prevention programs, and harm reduction initiatives that prioritize those most impacted by the criminal legal system. The state’s investment in these services is a model for other states to follow.
As we move into the second year of the Pretrial Fairness Act, our focus must remain on saving lives and addressing the systemic inequities that continue to harm black and brown communities. The elimination of money bond is just the beginning. To achieve real
justice, we must continue advocating for lifesaving reforms that invest in people, not punishment. Justice demands we dismantle systems that criminalize poverty and perpetuate racial disparities. The Pretrial Fairness Act is a critical first step toward creating a more equitable legal system—one that values human dignity and prioritizes health and safety over incarceration.
Jen Nagel-Fischer, R-CPRS, IL-CRSS, is a person with lived and living experience and is the founder and executive director of The Porchlight Collective SAP, which serves hundreds of program participants monthly in the greater St. Louis Metro East area. They are an experienced independent consultant, grassroots advocate, and subject matter expert in integrating culturally responsive and trauma informed harm reduction models. Jen has served as an expert reviewer for UNAIDS, the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime, and the US Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration.
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SUBMITTED PHOTO Elmhurst Independent
