Construction
Judges grant state’s motion to detain two men in unrelated child pornography cases
DuPage County State’s Attorney Robert Berlin, Lombard Chief of Police Tom Wirsing and Warrenville Chief of Police Sam Bonilla announced that the court granted the state’s motion to deny pre-trial release for two DuPage County resi-
dents each accused of possession and distribution of child pornography in unrelated cases.
Joseph Gregoire, 38, of Oakbrook Terrace, appeared in front of Judge Leah Bendik at First Appearance Court on Aug. 1, and was charged with two counts of child pornography—reproduce or distribute (Class X felony) and four counts of possession of child pornography (Class 2 felony).
The second individual, Jordan Erdakos, 26, of Warrenville, appeared
in front of Judge Angelo Kappas at First Appearance Court Aug. 3, and was charged with one count of child pornography—reproduce or distribute (Class X felony) and five counts of possession of child pornography (Class 1 felony).
As part of its ongoing investigations into child pornography, the Lombard Police Department received information that an individual going by the name of “Kinkypigbottom,” later identified as Gregoire, was allegedly sharing and disseminating child pornography. After receiving the information, officers obtained a search warrant for Gregoire’s home.
On July 31, officers executed the search warrant on the home, where they allegedly found videos and images of child pornography on two computers and a cell phone, some of which Gregoire had allegedly shared See caSeS, Page 7 Jorden Erdakos Joseph Gregoire
Court grants state’s motion to deny pre-trial release for Berkeley man charged with providing fatal dose of narcotics to Darien man
DuPage County State’s Attorney Robert Berlin and Darien Chief of Police Greg Thomas have announced that Judge Leah Bendik has granted the state’s motion to deny pre-trial release for a Berkeley man charged with supplying a fatal dose of illegal narcotics to Michael Rice of Darien.
Willie Woodgett, 37, appeared in First Appearance Court and was charged with one count of drug induced homicide, a Class X felony.
On July 24, DuPage County Judge Bendik issued an arrest warrant for Woodgett. He was taken into custody on July 30.
It is alleged that on March 30, 2023, the victim arranged to receive illegal narcotics from Woodgett. It is
alleged that at approximately 11:00 p.m., the same day, Woodgett went to Rice’s home and delivered the narcotics to him.
It is further alleged that at some point in time between March 30, 2023 and April 1, 2023, Rice ingested the narcotics provided to him by Woodgett and subsequently passed away from a drug overdose.
On April 1, 2023, at approximately 12:38 p.m., officers with the Darien Police Department responded to a call made by the victim’s mother regarding an unconscious male in the family home.
Rice was pronounced deceased on April 2, 2023. An autopsy determined the cause of death to be combined drug toxicity of fentanyl, ethanol, diphenhydramine, alprazolam, xylazine and buprenorphine. Rice was prescribed alprazolam.
An investigation into the matter conducted by the Darien Police De-
Teenager arrested for possession of a stolen vehicle
Villa Park police stopped the subject after he reportedly attempted to flee
The Villa Park Police Department reported last week an arrest of a subject for felony possession of a stolen vehicle.
According to police, on July 27, at approximately 9:25 p.m., Villa Park officers located a stolen vehicle traveling eastbound on Division Street from Addison Road. The driver of the vehicle reportedly attempted to flee and turned north on Harvard Avenue, then east into a parking lot.
As the vehicle stopped, a passenger reportedly threw a handgun from the vehicle. Police recovered the handgun and found it to be stolen.
The vehicle, a red Kia, reportedly had been stolen in Wheeling. The driver, Andy Cervantes, 18, of West Chicago, was charged with felony possession of a stolen vehicle. Cervantes was transported to the DuPage County Jail.
Police reported last week that charges related to the handgun were pending.
Village issues notice about paving companies and permits
The Village of Villa Park announced last week that it is experiencing an increase in calls from residents regarding two paving companies—Pave Pro and Paveright Asphalt and Masonry.
“These companies have been approaching residents, sometimes making them uncomfortable, and claiming that they do not need permits for their services,” noted the village’s statement. “Please be aware that all driveway repairs or replacements require permits.”
The village’s statement related that residents can call Villa Park’s permitting department directly at 630-433-4300 during the business hours of 7:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. on weekdays. The department’s email address is permits@invillapark.com.
The village concluded its statement by advising residents to call the Villa Park Police Department if they observe any suspicious activity or behavior.
Residents invited to celebrate grand opening of the renovated Lufkin Park on Aug. 15
Villa Park residents are invited to the grand opening ceremony at the newly renovated Lufkin Park.
The celebration will take place on Thursday, Aug. 15, from 4 to 6 p.m. at Lufkin Park, located at 1000 S. Ardmore Ave. A DJ and activities will start at 4 p.m. A ribbon cutting will take place at 5 p.m. The redevelopment at Lufkin
Park includes a new playground with a sensory garden, as well as a walking trail, a floating fishing pier, a band shell performance area for outdoor performances and community events, a splash pad for kids, a ninja challenge style playground with an obstacle course, and bathroom facilities with a picnic shelter overhang.
partment identified Woodgett as the individual who allegedly supplied the fatal dose of narcotics to the victim.
“The tragic death of another promising life serves as a terrifying reminder of the extreme danger illegal narcotics, particularly fentanyl, continue to be in our communities,” Berlin said. “Abruptly losing a family member can have a paralyzing effect on not just the immediate family, but also on surviving friends and relatives. I wish the entire Rice family and all those who knew and loved Michael strength as they continue their lives without the love and support they once enjoyed from Michael.
“The charges filed against Mr. Woodgett sent a crystal-clear message that if you supply narcotics that cause the death of another, you will be identified, charged, prosecuted and if found guilty, face up to thirty
years in the penitentiary. I thank the Darien Police Department as well as the Drug Enforcement Administration for their outstanding efforts on this very sad case.”
“Unfortunately, drug usage and overdoses continue to be a scourge on society,” Thomas said. “While efforts such as drug collection points, changes in how doctors can prescribe medicines, rehabilitation centers and the use of Narcan have been successful, there are still too many times that this type of tragedy occurs. I appreciate our officers’ ongoing efforts in combating drugs and their efforts during this investigation, as well as State’s Attorney Bob Berlin and his team to bring criminal charges. I’m sad for the Rice family and all families who endure this type of tragedy.”
Woodgett’s next court appearance is scheduled Aug. 26 for arraignment in front of Judge Daniel Guerin.
A ‘comforting’ visitor
On Tuesday, July 30, Corp. Terri Albright with the DuPage County Sheriff’s Office brought a special guest, Julia, to visit with seniors before lunch at the York Township Senior Nutrition Center, located at 1502 S. Meyers Road in Lombard. Julia, a beautiful and sweet 8-yearold golden retriever, put huge smiles across many faces during her visit. Supervisor John Valle said, “It was great seeing so many people filled with pure happiness and love from the presence of Julia. I am grateful to Corp. Terri Albright and Township Deputy Sean Siddiqui for facilitating the visit with our lunch crowd and look forward to future visits as well.”
Big Rigs and Kids to be held Aug. 17
Event runs from 10 a.m. until noon near Cortesi Veterans Memorial Park
The Villa Park Parks and Recreation Department will conduct its annual Big Rigs and Kids event on Saturday, Aug. 17, from 10 a.m. until noon, in the lot just north of Cortesi Veterans Memorial Park. The park is located at 318 E. Kenilworth Ave. The free event gives kids an op-
portunity to climb in, on and around a variety of vehicles, including some large vehicles used by the village’s police, fire and public works departments. The event will also include entertainment from magician and balloon artist Gary Kantor.
Movies in the Park takes place this Friday, Aug. 9
Villa Park residents are invited to this week’s free Movies in the Park presentation of “Over the Hedge” at Cortesi Veterans Memorial Park, located at 318 E. Kenilworth Ave.
The movie, which lasts 90 minutes, will begin at dusk at the park this Friday, Aug. 9. If there is inclement weather, the
movie will be shown at the Villa Park Public Library, 305 S. Ardmore Ave. Children under the age of 12 must be accompanied by an adult.
The Villa Park Public Library, the Friends of the Villa Park Library and the Villa Park Parks and Recreation Department are sponsoring Friday’s presentation.
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Willie Woodgett
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Opinion
Slices of life
Fixing a broken wheel
We are all broken. Some have just a dent in the fender; others need a whole new transmission.
We are dinged, bent, damaged, hurt, cracked, confused, crushed and cut to the quick.
Because life will sometimes do that to you—to me—to all of us.
It changes us. It challenges us. It tosses us into the deep dark waters during a violent tempest because we were meant to whirl with the waves and experience the storm. And the storm changes us in ways we never would have imagined. It leaves us broken—in tiny or all-encompassing ways.
We often try to hide this. The broken pieces that reside within us. But people are smart. They see through our forced smile, our transparent armor, and they want to help.
They want to fix it.
I’ve thought about this and I think it’s simply a part of human nature - to want to heal the hurts in others - to make everything okay. To fix them.
Thing is, there is no undoing what’s been done. There is no changing the dings and the scrapes and the collisions we’d had in life. They exist as sure as the sunrise and sunset, and they can’t be erased.
And they needn’t be. They shouldn’t be.
Because our experiences, our past—good and bad—aren’t supposed to be overlooked, ignored or erased. They happened for a reason. And that reason—however cliché—made us the person we are today, scars and all.
But here’s something I’ve observed about scars and human nature and the troubles we all encounter in life:
Sometimes I just want to talk about mine. Sometimes I want to unload. Sometimes it feels like a relief to talk about these things out loud. Maybe it lessens them. Maybe it makes them more real— or less real.
Maybe it just helps to share. But here’s the crux: sometimes sharing is all I want to do. I’m not necessarily looking for a fix, because there often is no fix, and I’m guessing when you share like this, you aren’t looking to be fixed, either.
We tend to listen with the intent of responding and that involves solving or fixing. There’s nothing inherently wrong with this, it’s just not what most people want or need. We don’t necessarily want, much less need, a response. We need to be heard. We want someone to listen without judgement, but even as importantly, without providing solutions that we’ve most likely already thought of ourselves.
I guess I’m just thinking out loud here, because I’ve got as much to learn here as anyone else. I’m
By Jill Pertler Columnist
venting, if you will. And in that, I’m not looking for a quick fix from anyone. I am realizing I need to/ want to be more mindful (not to mention silent) when others confide in me. I’m going to try to remember my own advice and not give unwarranted advice. (Or at least ask if my advice is wanted.)
Times of trouble can be very large and very lonely. It is during those times we aren’t necessarily looking for solutions or problemsolving. People confiding in us don’t always need ideas about new hobby suggestions, church locations or places to meet new people. Maybe they aren’t looking for any of that
Maybe, instead they are looking (we all are looking) simply for an ear. Maybe they are looking for the opposite of a quick fix. Maybe what they need most is a silent, supportive friend who has no need to fix because they love us just as we are, cracks and all.
Wouldn’t that be awesome?
Jill Pertler is an award-winning syndicated columnist, published playwright and author. Don’t miss a slice; follow the Slices of Life page on Facebook.
In the wake of Sonya Massey’s death, advocates want the state to act
Massey family members, activists call for Sangamon County Sheriff to step down
By Andrew Adams Capitol News illiNois
Calls of “Justice for Sonya” rang through the sanctuary of a church on Chicago’s West Side July 30 at a rally hosted in response to the death of Sonya Massey on July 6. Massey, a Black woman, was killed in her home by Sangamon County Sheriff’s deputy Sean Grayson. Grayson, who is white, pleaded not guilty to charges of first-degree murder, aggravated battery with a firearm and official misconduct stemming from the incident. But for activists organizing around
Letter to the editor
Reader: America ‘seems to have embraced identity politics’
America seems to have embraced identity politics, which is a misguided belief that people ought to be hired or voted into public office based only on gender and race.
This ill-contrived concept worships mediocrity and repels merit and excellence! It does not support our Constitution or our American belief system which encourages everyone to try harder and strive to do their very best.
The current Democratic Party refers to this as DEI (diversity, equity and inclusion), which means that they believe in hiring people because of their race and gender, not merit!
This I feel is absolute idiocy!
President Biden said he would appoint a black female to the United States Supreme Court, and he did. He said he wanted to hire a black female as his vice president, and he did.
This not only is anti-American but also insulting to those he appointed. Who wants to be appointed or hired for anything when it’s known merit isn’t important?
Kamala Harris has proven to be a DEI vice president; however Biden has also proven to be a DEI president. Neither has made our country better during the past 3+ years!
Former President Obama calls himself the first black president; however, he is bi-racial and has a white mother and a black father. Therefore, he is the first black bi-racial president.
Harris is not the first black vice-president as she also is bi-racial with a mother who is Indian and a father from Jamaica; therefore, she is the first black bi-racial vice president. Seems as though both of these individuals simply understand that pandering to black voters pays off.
America will never survive or excel in the world as a beacon of hope as long as identity politics and mediocrity which disregards merit, remains the criteria for voting and hiring practices.
Marilyn Fawell Lombard
Massey’s death, Grayson’s charges are not enough to satisfy their calls for justice.
“There is something wrong with policing in the state of Illinois,” the Rev. Al Sharpton, whose National Action Network helped organize the July 30 rally, said.
Sharpton, who spent July 29 with President Joe Biden discussing the 60th anniversary of the Civil Rights Act, renewed his calls on Congress to pass a version of the George Floyd Justice in Policing Act, which was introduced in 2021.
But the longtime civil rights activist said while that bill is stalled in Congress, Illinois should act on similar legislation.
“We’ve got Black faces in high places in Illinois. Well, stand up and do something,” Sharpton said. “We didn’t elect you to give us a press release. We want justice, we want fairness, we want equality. And if you can’t do the job, then step back and let some people with some backbone step up and do what needs to be done.”
Sharpton called on Illinois officials to enact more police reforms through a “Sonya Massey Law,” a name echoed in chants from the crowd throughout the rally.
“In this law we need to make it illegal for police to be switching districts,” Sharpton said.
This proposal comes, in part, from Grayson’s work history. The 30-year-old worked in six law enforcement agencies over four years before Massey’s death.
Prior to joining the Sangamon County Sheriff’s Office, he worked in Logan County, where he disregarded orders during a high-speed chase and faced at least one misconduct complaint.
Some measures outlined in the George Floyd Act are mirrored in Illinois’ Safety, Accountability, Fairness and Equity-Today, or SAFE-T, Act,
such as body camera requirements, a ban on chokeholds and expansions to police misconduct databases.
While that law, which sparked significant opposition from Republicans in the years since its passage, has been amended several times, some want further reform.
Chicago-based civil rights lawyer Antonio Romanucci, who worked on the George Floyd case, said last week that the Democratic National Convention in Chicago will provide activists an opportunity to lobby Gov. JB Pritzker and legislative leaders at the state Capitol to amend the SAFE-T Act.
Specifically, he advocated for instituting a waiting period for officers transferring between departments to allow for “proper vetting.”
“We want to fix this hole,” Romanucci said. “The SAFE-T Act is flawed.”
Senate President Don Harmon, D-Oak Park, defended the SAFE-T Act in a statement last week, but said he would consider new ideas in response to Massey’s death.
“We took steps to address this in the SAFE-T Act by requiring law enforcement to report misconduct violations when an officer is terminated or when an officer resigns under investigation of criminal offenses,” he said. “However, our work is not done, and I am open to any ideas for legislative action to prevent a tragedy like this from ever happening again.”
Jaclyn Driscoll, a spokesperson for House Speaker Emanuel “Chris” Welch, D-Hillside, said Grayson “should not have been an officer of the law given his track record.”
“It is the responsibility of our police and sheriff’s departments to utilize the tools this law provides,” Driscoll said. “With that said, Speaker Welch remains committed to responsible reform and refinements of
Good morning. It is time to see something good and positive in Speak Out. I’m in my 80s, old fashioned and ignorant, and there’s nothing wrong with being ignorant because ignorance is bliss. Here’s my story: Saturday. July 13. The strong winds took a large piece of fascia off my house. I made three calls for help, not even a call back. Then, I called another place and an actual live voice answered. He’d be here on Wednesday the 24th, and I had a funeral until 10. He said he’d be here Thursday the 25th between one and two he was here at 1:30 p.m. He was not satisfied with the results because the fascia had been dented. He said he’d be back by Monday. He was here Friday, July 26, 1:30 p.m. with a new piece; the cost was amazingly low. I was speechless, which is rare. I often have my mouth open and usually with a foot in it. His company is local and he said, “We try to help people.” Way to go Joe at Chicagoland Exteriors.
To the person who said I was smoking something (Aug. 1 Speak Out) because I called out the county clerk for what even the county board described as essentially negligence: you must not have thoroughly read my remarks. Of course, Jean Kaczmarek was not responsible for the “dope deal,” as you call it, and I still think County Board Chair Deb Conroy was justified in chastising the clerk because her office was responsible for getting the document to the state so the county could get its share of cannabis-sales tax dollars—but she claimed no responsibility for its delivery or receipt, and passed the buck. And no, I am not profiting off the “sad state of Democratic leadership,” as you wrongly surmised, but rather, I am a card-carrying conservative Republican. I just don’t like when people in government (or
anywhere, for that matter) do not take responsibility for their actions, especially when it costs us taxpayers lost revenue that I am sure the county will try to find a way to make us pay for.
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Trump has said this so many times and places, we must believe that he intends to be a dictator. He is asking all “Christians’ to vote “just this one time and never have to vote again.” I wrote in this paper years ago when Trump said he wanted to be king; now it’s dictator. We have so much to lose from the evil in this man and his followers. (Project 2025) Please encourage everyone to not vote for Trump. Thanks.
So Vice President Harris is for DEI; diversity, equity and inclusion. Some say she was a DEI pick for vice president. In reading a quote of hers, her definition of equity is not about equal “opportunity” for all, which I can get behind, but equal “outcome,” which sounds more like communism to me. I am all for giving a hand up, but giving handouts instead does nothing to help someone gain the momentum to achieve anything. And the elephant in the room? Merit. The bottom line, or maybe the No. 1 factor is, we need to choose people of merit, not based on gender, skin color or ethnicity. That holds true in any profession.
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I saw a couple of Speak Outs (Aug. 1 issue) that made reference to Project 2025. It’s the same song and dance with these paranoid Trump haters. There’s always some new bogeyman that involves him. What will be the next Trump bogeyman to appear after Project 2025 runs its course?
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Trump had a brush with death and now the Never Trumpers are making
How Speak Out works
• Speak Out is a forum in which readers can express their opinion anonymously concerning local, state, national and international topics. Each call is limited to 200 words whether the caller calls 630-629TALK or emails their opinion to speakout@rvpublishing.com.
• The views expressed by callers are their own.
• All calls are checked by four editors. If a consensus of editors believes a particular call is deemed to be in poor taste, erroneous, inaccurate, libelous, doesn’t make sense, or if claims stated in a call cannot be verified, the call will not be published.
• With regard to calls of a political nature, it is not possible to have an equal balance of calls with liberal and conservative viewpoints during any given week. The editors of Speak Out don’t have control of who calls in, what their political leanings happen to be, and the topic(s) they want to discuss.
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an issue that the wound was only superficial. The people making those statements should get a job in the circus and have a sharpshooter use them for target practice to get the feeling of being shot at.
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Hello. We live in a time where intelligent people are being silenced so that stupid people won’t be offended.
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JD Vance should know that I have cats and children, but if he met me I would be no lady. Does he know that single couples pay three times as much in taxes as a couple with two children and two times as much tax as a couple with one child; go ahead and check the numbers! Single couples also travel and eat out much more than couples with children, thereby supporting the travel industry and restaurants. If he says things this untrue, he is perfect for Trump.
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The Democrats have lost any sign of patriotism for America they may have had. They are throwing America under the bus for the sake of power by giving us such ineffective leadership to select from. Face reality. Joe Biden has big problems and Kamala Harris only filled her spot by being a woman and of color. Kamala is not qualified to hold office by any other attributes. The only solution is to vote for change on Nov. 5.
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Lombard calling. This is to the person telling us the correct way to say the current year. Can you provide the legal site that I can look up that defines the right way to say this year? Thank you.
• Advocates
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How revolting it is to drive down our local highways and at many intersections you see are disabled and homeless veterans in the hot sun begging for money. In the meantime, you have a vice president running for the Democratic Party to be our next president. And all the while she is trying to buy votes from the illegal immigrants. The Democrats are promising illegals free health care and are already giving them housing. Our veterans deserve the best quality of life after they sacrifice so much for us and our freedom. The Republicans and conservatives are much more realistic. Wake up, Democrats. Your party is selling our country out.
I agree with the caller who mentioned the top administrative officials and salaries for District 87. It is enough to make you gasp. I never get anywhere when I quote the state constitution, Article X: “The State shall provide for an efficient system of high quality public educational institutions and services. Education in public schools through the secondary level shall be free. There may be such other free education as the General Assembly provides by law. The State has the primary responsibility for financing the system of public education.” The state, in a pie chart sent with my income tax refund, indicated that roughly 70-plus percent of the tax dollars goes toward education. However, my property taxes to the school districts make me gasp. It’s like I’m being double-taxed. And as a senior, it is a significant burden. The school districts say they need to
(Continued from page 4)
the SAFE-T Act to ensure no family has to endure the same pain and suffering that Sonya Massey’s is right now.”
Romanucci also pointed blame for Massey’s death at Sangamon County Sheriff Jack Campbell and called on him to resign. Massey’s father, James Wilburn also called on Campbell to step down.
Campbell attended a listening session facilitated by the U.S. Department of Justice on July 29, where he apologized and said his department “failed” Massey, her family and the community. He also said he did not plan to resign.
“He wanted to ask our forgiveness,” Wilburn said. “Anyone else in my family can forgive him, but I’m not. Because he has my baby’s blood on his hands. He’s got to go.”
Wilburn indicated that if Campbell didn’t resign and if no one else ran against him, he would take matters into his own hands and try to unseat Campbell, who was first
pay well to attract good candidates, but teaching and education, unless in a private school, are essentially civil service jobs. And the enormous salary for the superintendent—what are we paying him to do, when he has assistants for his assistant superintendents? Not to mention the administration at four high schools. Way too top heavy.
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I find it laughable that Raja, Casten, Pritzker, Durbin and so many other Democrat clapping seals in this state are applauding Biden for somehow being courageous and putting his country first by dropping out the presidential race. What nonsense! If Kamala was currently the president, and she was trailing in all the polls by five points and had a bad debate, I guarantee no one would have put pressure on her to drop out.
I noticed the headline on a story in the Chicago Sun-Times a few days ago. It said: “Pritzker signs measure to expand abortion coverage.” The headline underneath it said: “The bill-signing in Chicago came hours after Iowa enacted a six-week abortion ban, further enshrining Illinois as a safe haven for those seeking reproductive care services.” I guess we can never have enough babies being aborted in Illinois, so it’s a good thing we have a pro-abortion extremist in the governor’s mansion who is one step ahead of these evil states surrounding Illinois that have abortion restrictions. It’s too bad Pritzker isn’t as proactive addressing other issues that affect this state, like crime, property taxes and the pension crisis, as he is with abortion.
elected to his position in 2018, and reelected in 2022.
“I’m not announcing my candidacy yet,” Wilburn said. “But I will. But I will.”
Massey’s family is being represented by Ben Crump, dubbed by Sharpton as the “attorney general for Black America.” Crump has risen to national prominence in recent years after he began representing families of Black people killed by law enforcement officers, including George Floyd, Breonna Taylor, Jacob Blake, Daunte Wright and others.
The rally July 30 was the latest in a growing list of marches, rallies and protests held in response to Massey’s death.
Activist groups declared Sunday, July 28, a “day of mourning” for Massey and groups held events in New York, Los Angeles and St. Louis among other locations. In Springfield, around 300 people gathered at Comer Cox Park with the Massey
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family as part of the nationwide demonstrations.
On July 27, Chicago saw a rally calling for police reform and a downtown march attended by hundreds. That march was organized in response to Massey’s death as well as the deaths of two Black men— Samuel Sharpe Jr. and D’Vontaye Mitchell—in Milwaukee earlier this month. That group also wants Congress to pass reforms initially introduced in 2021.
“The murder of Sonya Massey is one of the most horrific police killings I’ve ever seen,” Frank Chapman, one of the organizers of Saturday’s protest and longtime leftwing activist, said in a statement last week. “And just like Congress refused to pass an anti-lynching bill for a hundred years, they are refusing to pass the George Floyd bill now.”
Andrew Campbell contributed reporting to this story.
Coming event
Pet adoption fundraiser Aug. 24
Come out and make a special connection with a four-legged friend from Starfish Animal Rescue. Enjoy a hot dog, chips and a drink, and take advantage of our specialized vendors for all your pet’s needs. All proceeds will be donated to Starfish Animal Rescue. 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Lexington Square of Lombard, 555 Foxworth Blvd., Lombard. Call 630629-2900 for more information.
Citizens invited to participate in Lombard’s fourth annual Citizens Fire Academy
The Lombard Fire Department invites citizens living or working in Lombard to participate in its fourth annual Citizens Fire Academy, beginning Sept. 11.
The academy is led by Lombard firefighters and designed to provide participants a unique opportunity to learn about the work and training our Lombard firefighters perform on a daily basis.
The Citizens Fire Academy is a free, five-week program held on Wednesday evenings from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. at Lombard Fire Station #45, 50 E. St. Charles Road.
In addition to the weekday sessions, engaging hands-on practical exercises will be held on Saturday, Oct. 5, from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. at Fire Station 44, 2020 S. Highland Ave.
The academy will consist of classroom instruction, interactive discussions, and hands-on practical exercises focusing on various aspects of being a firefighter, including wearing personal protective equipment, extinguishing
a fire, climbing a ladder, vehicle extrication, and much more. After completing the program, participants will have a better understanding of how the Lombard Fire Department responds to fire and medical emergencies.
To be eligible, individuals must be at least 18 years old and live or work in Lombard. The class size will be limited to 10 participants. The program will begin on Sept. 11 and run through Oct. 9.
Applications are due by Friday, Aug. 16, and are available for printing on the village’s website at www. villageoflombard.org/citizensacademy, or may be picked up at Lombard Village Hall, 255 E. Wilson Ave. The Lombard Fire Department will inform citizens if they have been accepted to the academy by Aug. 20.
For more information, visit www. villageoflombard.org/citizensacademy, or contact Lombard Fire Marshal Perry Johnson by phone at 630-8734576 or email at JohnsonP@villageoflombard.org.
The Outreach House reaches a milestone: two years under one roof
The Outreach House’s reason for being is simple—to provide compassionate and effective assistance to individuals and families with dignity and without judgment.
The Outreach House guests, donors, volunteers and staff are coming together to celebrate the twoyear anniversary of bringing their four programs under one roof and offering community support to our neighbors in need at their new location in Lombard. Serving many local DuPage communities—York Township, Glendale Heights and Addison—in just two years services have increased to meet the growing
Coming events
Honey Farm Sunday, Aug. 11 at 2 p.m. Join local beekeeper Konni Vukelic of Three Bees for an interactive presentation on bees. Learn how bees impact us and the world at large, and gain an understanding of how we can all do small things that make a big impact to help bees survive and thrive. Register at helenplum.org or by calling 630-627-0316.
Glowforge Drop-In Monday, Aug. 12, from 6-8 p.m. Stop by the Studio 411 makerspace to check out the Glowforge laser cutter. Library staff will demonstrate using the Glowforge and show examples of projects you can make with it.
Lombard Chamber Pop Up
Lunch Aug. 9
Pop Up Lunch Aug. 9, 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m., at Vasco’s Periperi Chicken, 440 E. Roosevelt Road, Lombard. Come join us for our monthly Pop Up Lunch at Vasco’s PeriPeri, a unique fusion of Portuguese and Indian cuisine. Marinated chicken and lamb dishes are cooked fresh with
Lombard Junior Women’s Club holds school supply drive
need more than doubling the number of households being served.
The Outreach House is now:
• Serving more than 500 households each week in its Food Pantry;
• Distributing an average of 22,000 diapers each month through its First Things First program;
• Providing clothing to over 500 families each month through its Clothes Closet program.
The organization invites its guests, donors, volunteers and communities to come celebrate with them at 805 S. Main St., Suite A, Lombard, on Thursday, Aug. 22, from 4-7 p.m. Light refreshments will be served.
spicy and non-spicy options. Visit lombardchamber.com to register.
Online ordering for tree and shrub sale
Shop a wide selection of native trees and shrubs at the Forest Preserve District of DuPage County’s annual fall native tree and shrub sale.
The online-only sale will feature 44 different species of native trees and shrubs, including three species new to the sale. All were grown locally from seed within 100 miles of DuPage County. Orders can be picked up Friday, Sept. 20, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., and Saturday, Sept. 21, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at St. James Farm in Warrenville. Gardeners must order trees and shrubs in advance; there is no shopping during the pickup times. Orders will be filled on a first-come, first-served basis while supplies last and are subject to nursery availability. All proceeds from the sale will go to support educational programming at the Forest Preserve District of DuPage County. Visit www.dupageforest.org/things-to-do/calendar-of-events/fall-tree-shrub-sale.
On Saturday, Aug. 3, the Lombard Junior Women’s Club hosted a school supply drive at St. John Lutheran Church and School. The event was the culmination of a two-month unity project to engage local clubs, businesses and individuals for one project and one goal; helping students and families start the new school year feeling confident and prepared. The School Supplies & Allies project collected over 4,000 items, which were delivered to Outreach York (1420 S. Meyers Road, Lombard), a community resource center offering daycare programs and case management services for families. The supplies will also be distributed to other sites offering after-school care, teen youth development and transitional housing programs. Outreach York Director Rosie Rodriguez (far left) was overwhelmed with joy to see what was collected. State Rep. Terra Costa Howard (second from right), stopped by the event to drop off the donations she received at her office.
Overture
Yorktown residents hold diaper drive to benefit Outreach House
Over ture Yorktown residents recently held a diaper drive to benefit First Things First, the Outreach House program which meets the needs of infants. Last month, residents participated in a give-back campaign that collected school supplies for Lombard Elementary District 44.
Chris Fox photo Rock Valley Publishing
submitted photos Rock Valley Publishing
Plum Library programs
Hive Talkin’ with Three Bees
First 2024 human case of West Nile virus reported in DuPage County
Individual is from Villa Park people who are infected with WNV will develop symptoms such as fever, headache, body aches, joint pains, vomiting, diarrhea, or rash.
The DuPage County Health Department (DCHD) is reporting the first human case of West Nile virus (WNV) in DuPage County in 2024.
The individual is a Villa Park resident in their 20s. The onset of WNV symptoms was in early July.
WNV is most commonly spread to people through the bite of an infected mosquito. Fortunately, most people infected with WNV do not feel sick. However, approximately one in five
Less than one percent will develop a serious neurologic illness such as encephalitis or meningitis (inflammation of the brain or surrounding tissues). With a continued rise in recent weeks in mosquito batches testing positive for the presence of WNV, the DCHD is encouraging residents to stay safe outdoors by protecting themselves from mosquito bites and the risk of contracting WNV.
There are no vaccines to prevent or medicines to treat WNV in people, so the best way to prevent WNV is to avoid mosquito bites and follow the four Ds of defense:
• Drain: Drain those items that collect standing water around your home, yard, or business. Scrub and refill pet water dishes and bird baths regularly.
• Defend: Use an insect repellant containing DEET when outdoors and reapply according to directions.
• Dress: Wear long pants, long sleeves, and closed-toe shoes when
outside to cover the skin.
• Dusk and dawn: Mosquitoes bite during the day and night. Wear repellant when outdoors, especially during these prime times for mosquito activity.
Residents are encouraged to check the Personal Protection Index (PPI) on the Health Department’s website for the most up-to-date information on WNV activity. The current PPI level will be increased from 1 to 2, which indicates high numbers of infected mosquitoes in most areas and at least one human WNV case.
The PPI widget will be updated by 3 p.m. every Wednesday throughout the WNV season. These weekly updates will be determined by the Health Department’s vectorborne disease surveillance experts. WNV activity generally decreases in the fall when cooler temperatures arrive, especially after the first frost of the season.
Find additional information at www.cdc.gov/westnile/index.html and https://dph.illinois.gov/topics-services/diseasesand-conditions/ west-nile-virus.html.
Pritzker signs birth equity initiative into law, celebrates Medicaid expansion
By Dilpreet Raju and Jennifer Fuller
Capitol News illiNois
Gov. JB Pritzker signed a law last week that expands insurance coverage during and after pregnancy with the goal of lowering infant and maternal mortality rates, especially for black Illinoisans.
State-regulated insurance plans will be required to cover midwife services next year of services the state can cover under Medicaid. The 1115 waiver allows such things as housing, food and nutrition services, and violence intervention services to be reimbursed by the health care program that serves low-income individuals and is jointly funded by the state and federal governments.
The law requires insurers that provide state-regulated health care plans to cover pregnancy and postpartum services for covered individuals, including midwife services, doula visits, and lactation consultants for up to 12 months after the end of a pregnancy.
Licensed or certified midwives will need to be covered by insurance providers starting 2025, while all other outlined services must be covered by January 2026.
Pritzker, who was joined by advocates and sponsors of the bill, Rep. Robyn Gabel, D-Evanston, and Sen. Lakesia Collins, D-Chicago, said the state still has more work to do.
“The broad issue of maternal health, it’s not been done adequately even in some of the best hospitals, when we talk about women of color, in particular,” Pritzker said.
“We’ve got to change the way this system operates.”
Collins said this is not a localized problem but a pervasive one.
“We understand that lives are on the line,” she said, “from Chicago to rural southern Illinois, women across every community, every zip code: they face unexpected complications during pregnancy and without the coverage of insurance, are faced with life-threatening complications that are preventable.”
Lt. Gov. Juliana Stratton said the birth equity initiative is an extension of reproductive care.
“It bolsters our administration’s belief that no government should decide when or if a family grows and ensures that when families do expand, both mom and baby have access to the care they need,” Stratton said.
Stratton noted the bill signing happened the same day Iowa’s sixweek abortion ban took effect.
“I have to acknowledge how darkly ironic it is that we celebrate Illinois’ work to empower women, as our neighbors to the west woke up this morning with even fewer rights than they had last night,” Stratton said.
Gabel, who introduced the legis -
“ i t bolsters our administration’s belief that no government should decide when or if a family grows and ensures that when families do expand, both mom and baby have access to the care they need.”
– Lt. Gov. Juliana Stratton
lation in February, said the United States as a whole needs to try to make pregnancy safer.
“It is shocking that the wealthiest nation that has ever existed in this world has this problem,” she said of the country’s drastically high maternal mortality rate. “It must and will be addressed.”
The preterm birth rate in Illinois, one of the leading causes of infant death, has increased over the past decade, according to March of Dimes, a nonprofit aimed at improving the health of babies and mothers in the U.S.
The latest March of Dimes report card for Illinois gave the state a ‘D+’ preterm birth grade for a preterm birth rate of 10.6 percent, which, based on preliminary numbers, equates to about 13,000 preterm births in 2022. The country also received a ‘D+’ grade.
Jeanine Valrie Logan, a midwife and leader at Chicago Beyond, the philanthropic organization hosting the signing ceremony, expressed her vision of a society where Black women are continually cared for and kept safe, well beyond pregnancy and childbirth.
“I also envision them not only being safe in their pregnancy and postpartum but also their whole lives,” Logan said. “It saddens me to think about Sonya Massey and all the other families that are grieving now for senseless killing and preventable childbirth trauma.”
Medicaid to cover more services
Pritzker and many of the same lawmakers at the birth equity signing later celebrated a federal waiver that expands the number and scope
“We are using it to direct Medicaid resources toward initiatives that address the root causes of health inequalities such as housing, food insecurity, unemployment, violence prevention, reentry from prison settings, substance use treatment, and more,” Pritzker said.
The waiver took effect in early July. Federal approval means there are more matching funds from Washington that will now be avail -
• Cases
able for programs in Illinois.
The five-year waiver is part of federal rules that allow states to stretch their Medicaid programs, and test new programs and delivery models.
One of the focus areas in the waiver is prerelease services for incarcerated people. State leaders said those who are Medicaid-eligible will be able to get help from case managers, including medication-assisted treatment, prescription medicines and medical supplies.
State lawmakers cheered the expansion as well, pointing to ongoing work to bring equity to housing, healthcare and more.
“I fully understand that we cannot advocate for people to live
(Continued from page 2)
with others online. Gregoire was taken into custody at that time.
On July 28, the Warrenville Police Department received information that Erdakos was allegedly in possession of a cell phone that contained images of child pornography. After obtaining a search warrant for the phone, authorities allegedly observed hundreds of videos and images of child pornography, some of which had allegedly been shared, on Erdakos’ phone.
On July 30, officers with the Warrenville Police Department took Erdakos into custody from his home without incident. Erdakos is currently on sex offender probation after entering a plea of guilty to one count of possessing child pornography in May 2024. A condition of his probation includes no possession of any electronic devices capable of connecting to the Internet.
“The allegations that both of these men were not only in possession of child pornography but were actively sharing it with others are revolting,” Berlin said. “Each of these disgusting images and videos allegedly found on Mr. Gregoire’s and Mr. Erdakos’ devices, some of which depict infants and toddlers, represent yet another innocent victim of child pornography. The charges filed against these two men in as many days sends the message that in DuPage County, we will not hesitate in charging anyone suspected of possessing or distributing child pornography. I commend the Lombard and Warrenville police departments for their work not only
on this case, but for their ongoing efforts to protect our children from child pornographers. I thank Illinois Attorney General Kwame Raoul and his office for their assistance in this case.”
“I would like to thank our law enforcement partners at the Attorney General’s Office and their Digital Forensics Investigative Division for their assistance on this case as well as State’s Attorney Bob Berlin and his team for their efforts in filing charges against Mr. Erdakos,” Wirsing said.
“The Warrenville Police Department would like to thank the West Chicago Police Department and the
strong, healthy lives without addressing social determinants of health and the inequitable outcomes they result in,” Sen. Omar Aquino, D-Chicago, said. “With a focus on quality, innovation and equity, I’m excited this waiver will allow our state to tackle interconnected issues like housing, health and food security, fostering a more holistic care system where everyone can get the treatment they need.”
Department of Healthcare and Family Services Director Elizabeth Whitehorn said she hopes to improve overall health in vulnerable populations. The agency expects it will take several months before all eligible programs are fully included in the expansion and available to residents.
DuPage County Sheriff’s Office for their assistance in obtaining the digital forensic evidence needed to bring charges against Erdakos,” Bonilla said. “These types of cases are always very difficult and disturbing to investigate and I thank State’s Attorney Bob Berlin for filing the appropriate charges. I commend my officers and investigation team for their ability to set their own emotions and beliefs aside and maintain professionalism in protecting our community from this evil.”
The next court appearance for both men is scheduled for Aug. 26, for arraignment in front of Judge Daniel Guerin.
Court grants state’s motion to detain man charged with leading police on a 123-mph high-speed chase
Defendant allegedly crashed into Naperville squad car as he fled
DuPage County State’s Attorney Robert Berlin and Naperville Chief of Police Jason Arres have announced that Judge Leah Bendik granted the state’s motion to deny pre-trial release for an Aurora man accused of fleeing from police at a high rate of speed and crashing his vehicle into a Naperville squad car as he fled.
Mitchell Simmons, 31, appeared in First Appearance Court and was charged with one count of aggravated fleeing and eluding a police officer (Class 4 felony), one count of aggravated assault on an officer (Class 4 felony) and multiple misdemeanor and petty traffic offenses including reckless driving, driving while license suspended and unauthorized use of handicapped parking.
On July 25, at approximately 12:48 a.m., officers with the Naperville Police Department were in the area of the Naperville Extended Stay hotel when they observed a vehicle allegedly illegally parked in a handicapped parking space.
As officers approached the vehicle, which was idling at the time, they observed an individual, later identified as Simmons, with his eyes closed and his pants around his ankles in the driver’s seat.
After officers made contact with the defendant, he opened his eyes but was non-compliant when asked for his driver’s license and insurance.
It is alleged that when officers ordered Simmons out of the vehicle, he put the vehicle in reverse and accel-
Police Reports
The Villa Park Police Department recently reported the following arrests and citations. Readers are reminded that an arrest does not constitute a conviction, and that suspects are considered innocent unless proven guilty in a court of law. Persons charged with domestic battery are not named in order to protect the privacy of victims. Juveniles age 17 or younger are not named.
July 30
A complainant in the 300 block of N. Harvard reported at 6:22 a.m. their vehicle was stolen.
A complainant in the 300 block of N. Ardmore reported at 9:16 p.m. that a suspect stole their cell phone. The cell phone was recovered, and the complainant did not want to press charges.
July 29
A complainant in the 600 block of W. Ridge reported that a suspect battered them.
A complainant at a liquor store in the 500 block of W. St. Charles reported that a suspect battered them, but did not want to sign complaints.
July 28
Abodurin K. Adaba, 78, of Chicago, was arrested on the above date and charged with aggravated DUI, possession of a controlled substance, disobeying a stop sign, no driver’s li-
Forest Preserve
Prevent
rabies:
Be safe, never touch a bat
Mitchell Simmons
erated, striking a marked Naperville Police Department squad car and causing an officer to jump out of the way to avoid being struck by the vehicle. It is alleged that Simmons then turned onto Diehl Road at which time officers initiated a pursuit which ultimately included six police vehicles in marked squad cars with their emergency lights and sirens activated.
It is alleged that Simmons continued to flee across a raised median on Diehl Road to Route 59, to I-88, where he reached speeds of approximately 123 mph, onto I-290, where he reached speeds in excess of 100 mph in a construction zone. Officers with the Hinsdale Police Department successfully deployed spike strips on I-290 and disabled a tire, but Simmons allegedly continued driving his vehicle at a high rate of speed and continued to do so after officers with the Oak Brook Police Department were able to disable a second tire on his vehicle.
It is further alleged that Simmons exited the expressway on 25th Street and ultimately turned on to a dead end street and crashed into a chain link fence where he exited his vehicle and fled on foot. He was taken into custody after a brief foot pursuit.
“The allegation that Mr. Simmons crashed his vehicle into a squad car,
cense and no insurance for an alleged incident that occurred April 9.
A complainant in the 300 block of N. Illinois reported that a suspect threatened them with a weapon.
A complainant in the 1-100 block of W. Plymouth reported at 9:35 p.m. that a suspect removed items from their car without permission.
July 27
Andy Cervantes, 18, of West Chicago, was charged with receiving, possessing or selling a stolen motor vehicle or essential part, and attempted fleeing or attempting to elude a police officer in a vehicle near N. Addison and W. North at 9:43 p.m.
July 26
Daniel E. Carr, 28, of Chicago, was charged with burglary/retail theft/possessing displayed merchandise exceeding $300 at a music store in the 200 block of W. Roosevelt at 9:19 p.m.
A complainant at a store in the 400 block of W. North reported at 10:32 p.m. that a suspect approached them with a weapon and demanded their money. The complainant did not wish to sign complaints at this time.
A complainant in the 1-100 block of N. Addison reported at 1:25 a.m. that a suspect battered them. The complainant did not want to sign complaints at this time.
A complainant in the 300 block of
nearly striking an officer, and then led police on a high-speed chase in excess of 100 mph, at one point through a construction zone, are outrageous,” Berlin said. “Mr. Simmons’ alleged actions demonstrate a complete disregard for public safety and the rule of law, which will not be tolerated in DuPage County. Thankfully, no innocent motorists were injured or worse as a result of Mr. Simmons’ alleged actions. As I have said numerous times in the past, fleeing from the police will only make matters worse for you. I thank the Naperville Police Department for their efforts in this case as well as the Oak Brook and Hinsdale police departments for their assistance. Their coordinated efforts led to the successful apprehension of the defendant before he could cause serious injury to himself or someone else.”
“The arrest of this suspect who fled from our officers at a high rate of speed underscores the extreme danger posed by such reckless behavior. In addition to fleeing, it is alleged that he almost struck an officer with his vehicle and also hit an unoccupied police car,” said Arres. “High-speed pursuits not only put the lives of our dedicated law enforcement personnel at risk, but also innocent drivers in the community. We remain committed to ensuring the safety of our citizens and will continue to take decisive action against those who threaten it.”
Simmons’ next court appearance is scheduled for Aug. 19, for arraignment in front of Judge Margaret O’Connell.
N. Mission reported that a package was stolen from their front porch.
July 25
Retail theft was reported at a store in the 900 block of S. Route 83 at 8:46 a.m. A complainant reported that a suspect removed items from display shelves and switched the price tags. The suspect was issued a trespass warning.
Retail theft was reported at a pharmacy in the 1-100 block of E. St. Charles at 2:47 p.m. A complainant reported that a suspect removed items from display shelves and left without paying.
July 24
A 43-year-old Villa Park man was charged with two counts of domestic battery in the 1000 block of N. Harvard at 9:05 p.m.
July 21
A complainant near S. Michigan and W. School reported that unknown suspects attempted to steal packages from front porches, but dropped them. All of the items were returned to the residents.
Identity theft,
fraud
According to information provided by the Villa Park Police Department, police reported four incidents of identity theft or fraud.
District board to ask voters for funding to protect open space
The Forest Preserve District of DuPage County’s board of commissioners voted to place a referendum on the Nov. 5 ballot.
If approved by voters, it would increase the property tax rate for the Forest Preserve District by an additional 0.0350% above the limiting rate.
Since 2006 when DuPage voters last approved a Forest Preserve District referendum, the annual visitor count, which remained steady at 3 million until 2020, grew to its presentday 5.5 million (an 83% increase). During that time, for every dollar a property owner pays in real estate tax, the portion going to the Forest Preserve District has dropped from 2.3 cents per dollar to 1.5 cents per dollar. If passed, the portion of each tax dollar received by the Forest Preserve District would still be less than 2 cents for every dollar.
In addition to more visitors, the Forest Preserve District now has more holdings to protect than ever before. Since 2006, the Forest Preserve District grew by more than 600 acres of open space, added 30 miles of trails, restored 8,500 acres of land, and restored 30 miles of rivers and streams.
For a DuPage County property owner, this change would translate to an estimated additional tax of $11.67 per $100,000 of home value for the 2024 levy year.
The increase would provide the Forest Preserve District with essential funding to:
• Preserve, restore, and maintain forests, open spaces, and water quality.
• Acquire lands to protect rivers, watersheds, and wildlife habitats.
• Plant trees and enhance flood control and drainage systems.
• Maintain and improve woodlands, wetlands, and prairies.
• Provide nature education and outdoor opportunities for all ages.
• Increase access and safety in forest preserves.
• Improve recreational amenities like multiuse trails and campgrounds.
Per state law, the Forest Preserve District cannot increase the tax levy over the limiting rate without voter approval. For further information on the referendum, visit dupageforest.org/ referendum2024.
Bats are most active this time of year. The DuPage County Health Department (DCHD) reminds residents to never touch or try to catch a bat or wild animal, especially in their homes, since they may carry diseases such as rabies.
Two bats have tested positive for rabies in DuPage County to date in 2024. Preventive treatment has been recommended by a healthcare provider and/or public health officials for 55 DuPage County residents for potential rabies exposures already this year.
Rabies is a deadly virus that affects the brain and nervous system. Humans and other mammals can get rabies after being bitten by an infected animal or when saliva from a rabid animal gets directly into the eyes, nose, mouth, or a wound. Bats are the main source of rabies in Illinois.
You may not be able to tell by looking at a bat if it is rabid. Other wild mammals such as raccoons and skunks can carry and transmit rabies. Preventive treatment with rabies immune globulin and a vaccine series must begin immediately after exposure. Without it, rabies is usually fatal.
The last human case in Illinois was reported in 2021, which was the first human case of rabies in Illinois since 1954. If you have been bitten or exposed to a bat, seek immediate medical attention.
Finding a bat in your home, especially if you were asleep, or around unattended children, individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities, or intoxicated persons, even without visible bite marks, may be considered an exposure.
The presence of a bat in a home, or any contact with a bat, represents a possible hazard for rabies and should be reported to your healthcare provider and the local health department so that the circumstances can be evaluated.
All potential human rabies exposures must be reported to the DuPage County Health Department at (630) 221-7553 or after hours at (630) 6827400.
All animal bites to humans in DuPage County must be reported to DuPage County Animal Services at (630) 407-2800 or officer@dupagecounty. gov. Fax reports to (630) 407-2801.
Rabies in humans is 100 percent preventable. Understanding the risk and knowing what to do after exposure can keep you, your loved ones, and your pets safe.
Tips to prevent rabies:
• Be a responsible pet owner. Keep vaccinations up to date for all pets.
• Seek immediate veterinary help if your pet is bitten by a wild animal or exposed to a bat.
• If a bat is in your home, do not kill or release the bat outdoors until after speaking with animal control and public health officials to determine if anyone may have been exposed to rabies and needs preventive treatment.
If you are able to do so without putting yourself at risk for physical contact or being bitten, try to cover the bat with a large can or bucket, and close the door to the room.
If the bat or other animal is available for testing and test results are negative, preventive treatment is not needed.
Obituaries
SHARON R. BONO, 70
Sharon R. Bono, nee Tarr, age 70, of Wheaton, Illinois, passed away on July 30, 2024, surrounded by her loved ones.
Beloved wife of 40 years to Gregory Bono. They were married in Portland, Oregon before relocating back to Illinois to start their family. Sharon was a devoted mother to Matthew (Samia) Bono of Wheaton, Illinois and Daniel (fiancé Tucker) Bono of Portland, Oregon; treasured Nana of Alexander Bono and Natalie Bono; dear sister of Barbara (Forrest) Borre, William Tarr, and Gus Jr. (Jayne) Tarr; and dear aunt, cousin, relative, and friend to many.
Sharon was known for her compassionate heart and deep love for people and animals, especially her dog, Gracie. She had an outgoing personality, and she built many long-lasting friendships throughout her life. True to her kind-hearted and loving spirit, she found fulfillment in her career as a nurse.
Sharon enjoyed gardening, reading, family vacations, and going on walks. She delighted in her role as a Nana. She found great enjoyment spending time with her grandchildren, and she developed a special bond with them from the moment they were born.
Funeral Services were held Tuesday, Aug. 6, at Brust Funeral Home.
Donations in Sharon’s memory can be sent to Ascension Alexian Brothers Hospice Residence, 901 Martha St., Elk Grove Village, IL 60007 or to the Alzheimer’s Association, Great Illinois Chapter, 8430 West Bryn Mawr, Suite 800, Chicago, IL 60631. Info: www.brustfuneralhome.com or 888-629-0094.
MARY GEORGE, 92
Mary (Carter) George died peacefully in her home on July 21, 2024, after a 6-year journey with Alzheimer’s disease. She was 92 years old.
Mary was born on November 24, 1931, on a farm in Elm Springs, Arkansas, to Gay and Charles Carter. She was the youngest of 7 siblings and 3 half-siblings. At the age of 3, after her father’s death, the family moved to Crete, IL. The family also spent time living in Chicago. Mary attended college but dropped out after her mother’s death in 1951.
As a young adult she attended the Central YMCA Outing Club in Chicago. It was there that she met her future husband, Lou. Together they were part of a square dance group that performed on the WLS National Barn Dance program in 1957. They were also very active in the Chicago Methodist Temple young adults’ group and were married there in 1959.
Mary worked in administrative support roles throughout her professional life, but her most meaningful work was working for the Lombard YMCA. There she ran the senior lunch program at the York Township Senior Center, she started the YMCA’s Senior Outreach program, and she taught several senior exercise classes.
Her hobbies and passions included raising monarch and black swallow tail butterflies, and teaching others how to do the same, curating beautiful
flower gardens, crafting of all kinds, participating in home builds with Habitat for Humanity, and countless hours of volunteering. Mary was a former member of the Lombard Garden Club, Homemakers, and was passionately involved in the First Church of Lombard for nearly 63 years.
Mary had a quick wit, was fun-loving, feisty, and loved playful verbal sparring. She was a loyal friend, wonderful wife, mother and grandma, and loved giving hugs. She was a champion of social justice, and she wasn’t afraid to stand up for what she believed in. Her grandchildren were the joy of her life.
Mary was preceded in death by her husband of 62 years, Louis George, her 9 siblings, and her parents. She is survived by her children, Michelle, Stephen (Aini), Linette (Andy), grandchildren, Dylan (Jov), Ella (Bill), Carter and Jake, and great-granddaughter, Zoey.
A celebration of life service will be held on Sept. 7, at 11 a.m. at the First Church of Lombard. All are welcome. In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to one of Mary’s favorite non-profits, SCARCE (scarce.org).
MARIE YOUNIS
Marie Younis, of Lombard, passed away June 12, 2024. Adored, gentle mother of Sherie
(Torr) Landrud, Sereen (Garth) Benson, and Rick (Kelsey) Younis. Loving and inspiring Nonna of Brianna Landrud, Owen Landrud, Hadley Benson, and Autumn Younis. Cherished sister of Caroline Good and Josephine (the late Carl) DeFranco. Caring aunt, friend and relative of so many who she showered her kindness upon over and over throughout life.
Sicilian cook who prepared plentiful feasts for those she loved.
The Helen Plum Library and Lilacia Park were also incredibly special places for Marie. She spent wonderful days strolling the park during all the beautiful seasons, particularly Lilac Time and Christmas where Lilacia Park comes alive with magical wonder. And, it would be remiss not to mention that Marie is also the very endearing mother to not one, but, two Lombard Lilac Princesses, Sherie (1986) and Sereen (1988)!
Marie was born in Caltavuturo, Sicily, Italy and, at the age of 13, came to the United States with her family where they initially made New York their home. A few short years later, Marie found opportunities in Chicago and started a new life. Marie’s family soon followed her to IL, further strengthening the unbreakable bond and support between Marie and her sisters. Eventually, Marie settled in the beautiful, historic town of Lombard, IL where she lived and enjoyed the vibrant community for 46 years. As a successful esthetician, Marie was blessed to have many clients and colleagues become lifelong friends. Marie enjoyed a full life of family, friends, career, travel, cooking, and hobbies including bowling where she was lovingly known as the “Italian Fury.” Marie was the quintessential
Let us not forget Marie’s passion for soap operas and game shows! General Hospital, Jeopardy, and Wheel of Fortune were her absolute favorites. She might possibly be the longest running
Coming event
Spay Illinois offering vaccines
Spay Illinois is offering free pet vaccines, in collaboration with Petco Love, through Dec. 31, 2024. If you receive LINK/EBT benefits, SSDI, or are a veteran or senior 62+, you can receive free rabies, DHPP, FVRCP and a microchip for your pet. Thanks in part to a grant from Petco Love, Spay Illinois is able to offer life-saving vaccines for cats and dogs. This offer is only for owned pets that are spayed or neutered, and only for up to three pets per household. If your pet needs spay-
viewer of General Hospital! So many wonderful memories and cherished laughs Marie’s family holds in their hearts, forever. Marie’s heart belongs to her family. Her greatest love is her children, their spouses, and her beautiful grandchildren, all of whom are who they are today in great part because of Marie. Marie was a Parishioner at St. Pius X Church in Lombard for many years. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to St. Pius X Catholic Church, 1025 E Madison St, Lombard, IL 60148 and The Outreach House, 805 S. Main St., Lombard, IL 60148. Arrangements by Brust Funeral Home. Info: www.brustfuneralhome.com or 888-629-0094.
ing or neutering, please call us to make an appointment and they can receive their vaccines and microchip on the day of their surgery. 630-961-8000. All visits are by appointment only. Please call 630-961-8000 to schedule an appointment. Other vaccines are available and vaccine pricing can be found on the Spay Illinois websitehttps:// www.spayillinois.org/wellnessprices.
Please bring proof of qualification by downloading the EBT app, bringing proof of active SSDI, veteran status, or senior age.
AgeGuide Northeastern Illinois named recipient of Aging Achievement Award from USAging
Northeastern Illinois, the Area Aging on Aging, has announced that its podcast, “The Age Guide: Perspectives on the Aging Journey,” received a 2024 Aging Achievement Award from USAging, one of the highest honors presented by the association to its members.
The Age Guide, which is a monthly podcast hosted by AgeGuide Northeastern Illinois, was among 22 local aging initiatives to receive Achievement honors during USAging’s 49th Annual Conference and Tradeshow, July 8-11 in Tampa, Fla. An additional 16 agencies receive Innovations Awards.
The 2024 Aging Innovations & Achievement Awards, supported by Caregiving.com and Cumulus.care, recognize USAging’s members who
Coming events
have found new and innovative ways to support older adults, people with disabilities, and caregivers in their homes and communities.
“At USAging, we are thrilled to recognize the outstanding achievements of this year’s Aging Innovations & Achievement Awards recipients. Their innovative programs and unwavering commitment to improving the lives of older adults set a high standard of excellence in our field. These initiatives not only enhance the well-being of our aging population but also inspire others to strive for impactful and lasting change in their communities,” said USAging CEO Sandy Markwood.
The “Age Guide: Perspectives on the Aging Journey” spotlights the realities, joys, and challenges of aging, dispelling myths, and combating
‘Coffee and Conversation’ with legislators Aug. 10
Local residents are invited to join state Sen. Suzy Glowiak Hilton and state Rep. Diane Blair-Sherlock for a cup of coffee and conversations on Aug. 10. The free event will be held Saturday, Aug. 10, from 9:30 to 10:30 a.m. at Funky Java Coffee, located at 40 S. Villa Ave. #6 in Villa Park. The Coffee and Conversation serves as an open forum for community members to share their concerns and talk with the senator and representative about state issues. Coffee will be provided for attendees. People with questions or concerns can contact Glowiak Hilton’s office at 630-785-3177 or visit her website at www.SenatorSuzyGlowiak.com.
Resource fair for veterans Aug. 21
Veterans and their families are invited to join the DuPage County Recorder and the Veterans Assistance Commission of DuPage County for the sixth annual Veterans Resource Fair from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Aug. 21 in the first floor Auditorium of the JTK Administration Building, 421. N County Farm Road, Wheaton. More than 80 service agencies and community organizations will be in attendance to offer information and assistance to veterans. Attendees are invited to enjoy refreshments and win door prizes as they receive information about programs designed to serve veterans and their families. For more information, please contact Steve Fixler of the Veterans Assistance Commission at 630-407-5655 or steven.fixler@dupagecounty.gov or visit www.dupagecounty.gov/vac or www.dupagecounty.gov/recorder.
ageism. Each episode features personal stories of older adults and caregivers who have benefited from AgeGuide’s Older Americans Act services. The podcast also includes unique segments like a monthly “Medicare Minute” highlighting Medicare updates and changes.
You can listen to The Age Guide at www.ageguide.org/the-age-guide-podcast/ or wherever you get your podcasts.
“We started The Age Guide podcast to tell the stories of older adults who were locked up in long-term care during the COVID-19 pandemic,” said Marla Fronczak, CEO of AgeGuide.
“We have received over 2,000 listens, making this an invaluable advocacy tool to tell the stories of how our services positively impact older adults in our region.”
The 2024 USAging Aging Innovations & Achievement Awards honor traditional and new strategies in a range of categories, including advocacy; agency operations; caregiving; community planning and livable communities; diversity, equity and inclusion; economic security; elder abuse prevention; healthsocial care integration; healthy aging; home and community-based ser-
vices; housing and homelessness; kinship and grandfamily support; nutrition; technology; social engagement; transportation and mobility; and workforce development and volunteerism. All winners are highlighted in the USAing Aging Innovations & Achievement Awards Showcase at usaging.org and follow the links.
About AgeGuide
Lombard-based AgeGuide Northeastern Illinois, an Area Agency on Aging, is a nonprofit organization responsible for developing and coordinating a network of services for older persons throughout an eight-county area in northeastern Illinois.
AgeGuide informs and advises public and private agencies and the general public of the needs of older people living in its region, and acts as an advocate on their behalf. The agency serves DuPage, Grundy, Kane, Kankakee, Kendall, Lake, McHenry and Will counties.
Other information about AgeGuide, other topics of interest to older adults, and links to additional resources are available at the Agency’s website: www.ageguide.org.
Secretary of state’s Teen Summer DMV Program ending Aug. 24
Teen drivers have just three more Saturdays to take advantage of the Secretary of State’s Teen Summer DMV program, Secretary of State Alexi Giannoulias announced recently. Giannoulias announced in June that for the first time ever, his office would dedicate DMV services exclusively for teen drivers every Saturday at select facilities throughout the state. More than 50,000 Illinois teens received their first driver’s license during the months of June and July.
Now, with just four Saturdays left to access exclusive teen hours, Giannoulias is encouraging any eligible teens to make an appointment
before they go back to school.
“We have seen this summer the success of these teen-only DMVs that provide a convenient DMV option for working parents who can’t take time off work during the week or for teens who have summer sports and activities,” Giannoulias said. “As we near the end of our program this summer, I want to make sure that our eligible teens can get their license before school starts and their schedules and their parent’s schedules get even busier.”
The Teen Summer DMV initiative, which in-
See DMV, Page 15
Glenbard assistant superintendent earns national recognition
Glenbard District 87 Assistant Superintendent for Human Resources Josh Chambers has been recognized as the American Association of School Personnel Administrators (AASPA) Herb Salinger Personnel Administrator of the Year 2024. This award is given to an active AASPA member who has distinguished themself in personnel administration; is involved and a contributing participant in personnel functions and/or programs; whose contributions have had a significant impact on public education; is a skilled manager of change and is creative in their approach to personnel administration; and approaches personnel administrative work with a sense of humor and sense of respect for others. Chambers said, “I am deeply honored to receive AASPA’s Herb Salinger Personnel Administrator of the Year Award. I want to extend my heartfelt gratitude for this incredible recognition. First and foremost, I want to thank my dedicated HR team Tori, Diana, Val, Shelley, Viraj, and Lisa. Your unwavering support and collaboration have been instrumental in our success. This award is a testament to our collective effort and commitment to creating a positive and inclusive environment for our educators and staff. I am also profoundly grateful to my colleagues in Glenbard, NWPA, and most importantly IASPA for their support and encouragement. Your friendship and community have been a constant source of motivation. And last, thank you to my family, thank you Tyler, Sean, Kelsey, Emma, and most importantly my wife, Kim, for your boundless love and understanding.”
WATCH ALL GAMES HERE!
Indulge in our New Vegan and Dessert food items
H DAILY DINE IN ONLY SPECIALS H
SUNDAYS
50¢ Boneless Wings LIMIT 12 (with side purchase)
$5 Sausage & Peppers ‘Wich (with side purchase)
$9 Pasta Marinara (add $2 for Vodka, Meat, Carbonara or Alfredo)
$10 Bacon Wrapped Pickle Spears
$10 Vegan Pasta Marinara
$4 Mimosa - $6 Tito’s Bloody Mary
$4.50 Miller Lite or $6 Import 22 oz. Drafts
$17 Bottles of Woodbridge House Wine
H H H
TUESDAYS
$2 Beef/Pulled Pork Taco
$3 Chicken - Fish - Pork Belly - Steak
$4 Vegan Tacos - Impossible Meat - Chicken - Pork
$4 Cilantro Lime Rice or Seasoned Black Beans
$10 BACON Nachos
$4 Modelo Draft
$6 Don Julio Margaritas
$7 Don Julio Frozen Margaritas
$20 Any Mexican Beer Buckets
H H H
WEDNESDAYS
Half Price Bottles of Wine $25 or More FREE Bar Bingo/Kids eat free 10 and Under - Ask server for more details
$5 Gourmet Cheeseburger (with side purchase)
$10 BACON Wrapped Mushrooms
$8 Impossible Burger (with side purchase)
$5 U Call Its $8 and Under Wine/Liquor ONLY
THURSDAYS
We’re Now Pouring 394 Bourbons, Scotches and Whiskeys. 1/2 Off $20 or more pours. 90 to Choose from.
$5 Pulled Pork ‘Wich (with side purchase)
$10 BACON Wrapped Mozzarella Sticks
$8 Vegan Chicken Parmesan ‘Wich (with side purchase)
$4 Drafts $8 and Under
H H H
FRIDAYS
$5 Pepper & Egg ‘Wich (with side purchase)
$15 Fish & Chips (1/2 Pound Alaskan White Fish)
$10 Bacon Stuffed Avocado
$8 Vegan Burrito (with side purchase)
$5 Stella Draft
$5 Crown or Titos
$25 High Noon Buckets
H H H
SATURDAYS/UFC
$5 1/2 Lb BLT ‘Wich (with side purchase)
$10 BACON Croquettes
$8 Vegan Buffalo Chicken ‘Wich (with side purchase)
$5 Sam Seasonal Draft
$5 Proper Twelve Shot
$5 Absolut or Jameson
$22 Modelo Buckets
H H H
CLOSED - MONDAYS
FRIDAY
Come, Sing and get a chance to go to our finals. Cash and prizes for top 3 winners on the first Fridays of the month.
Watch the Paris Olympic Games Here!
Try Our New Non-Alcoholic Cocktails!
36 Drafts & 394 Bourbons, Scotches & Whiskeys
HAPPY HOUR
Tuesday-Friday 3pm-6pm
99¢ Chicken Tenders ~ SLIDERS ~
$2 Grilled Chicken - Meatball - Pulled Pork
$3 Burger - Fish - Pork Belly
$4 Vegan Chicken or Impossible Slider
$5 Italian Beef ‘Wich
$8 Medium Cheese Pizza - $3 Full Toppings
$12 XL Cheese Pizza - $4 Full Toppings
$4 Well Gin, Rum, Tequila, Vodka & Whiskey
$4 House Wine (Woodbridge)
$5 Blue Moon Drafts
$15 Domestic Buckets - $20 Import Buckets
$8 Jefferson Old Fashioned
$5 Jefferson 1.25 oz. Pour
FALL BASEBALL
Elmhurst Youth Baseball & EYB Cougars Softball House League registration is NOW OPEN! Register NOW to be a part of the fastest growing baseball & softball program in the Western Suburbs!
The Fall Baseball and Softball Leagues are a non-competitive league focused on training and player development. It is a 5 or 6 week program scheduled to start in September and conclude in October with all practices and games taking place on the weekends.
Games are scheduled for each Saturday with practice prior to each game. If there is a rain-out then the game/practice may be rescheduled for Sunday.
Elmhurst Youth Baseball is open to boys and girls ages 4 to 20. The EYB Cougars softball program is open to girls ages 4 to 18.
Fall ball allows for players to begin practicing and playing in divisions that they may qualify for in the following Spring season or to continue their development in the divisions they currently compete.
REGISTRATION FOR THE FALL BALL SEASON IS OPEN! Register at eybaseball.org or Scan Here
FRIDAYS & SATURDAYS THROUGH SEPTEMBER 14TH NOON - MIDNIGHT
Joe’s Dojo is now Saga Martial Arts
Joe’s Dojo opened its doors in Villa Park in 2013. Over the last 11 years, Joe’s Dojo has given people a place to learn the martial art of karate. In the summer of 2023, Sensei Joe Garvey had to step down due to injury, leaving the dojo to two of his longtime assistants— Sensei Carter and Sensei Devin. “The dojo has always been like a second home for us,” said Sensei Devin (pictured), who has joined Sensei Carter to continue operating the dojo. Joe’s Dojo, located at 341 S. Ardmore Ave., is now Saga Martial Arts. For more information, stop in for a visit or call 312-927-0184.
• DMV
(Continued from page 10)
cluded opening 12 additional DMVs on Saturdays from 8 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. ends Aug. 24.
The hours cater exclusively to helping teens get their driver’s licenses or permits quickly and conveniently. The effort is part of Giannoulias’ modernization plan to create efficiencies and reduce wait times.
During teen service hours, the office has a selfie station for newly licensed drivers and provides important information on data protection, such as making sure the driver’s license number and address are covered when posting to social media.
State law requires teen drivers and a parent or guardian to visit a DMV in person to complete testing and identity verification prior to receiving their first driver’s license. Illinois DMVs experience an influx of cus-
tomers during the summer months, especially among teen drivers who make the switch from an instruction permit to a driver’s license.
Parents and teens can call (800) 252-8980 to schedule an appointment at any of the 12 DMV locations.
The designated teen service hours created an estimated 1,000 appointments per week to accommodate the nearly 9,000 current permit holders who become eligible for a license this summer.
The Teen DMVs will also free up appointments during the week for those needing in-person DMV visits.
Teen service hours are offered at the following locations: Addison, Aurora, Bethalto, Belvidere, Bridgeview, Chicago West, Des Plaines; Elgin, Joliet, Lake Zurich, Plano and St. Charles.
St. Timothy Evangelical Lutheran Church 547 N. Main St., Lombard, IL 60148 630-627-2435
Lent and Easter Services at 7 p.m.
Sunday Worship at 10:15 am
“The Crucial Hours”
Sunday School & Bible Study 9 am
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
Saturday, August 24 Game Night at 4 pm
Everyone is Welcome!
Third Lenten Service March 16, 2022
All services are live streamed. Watch on our website or on Facebook. sainttimothy.org
Rev. Paul Spaude “What to Remember When Your are St. Matthews, Niles Seized with Remorse” Matthew 27:3-4
Fourth Lenten Service March 23, 2022
Rev. Jonathan Bergemann “I Will Keep the Passover”
779 S. York Street Elmhurst, IL 630-834 -6700 www.visitationparish.org
Weekend Masses: Saturday: 4 PM (Vigil) Sunday: 7:30, 9:30 & 11:30 AM and 6 PM
Daily Masses: Monday—Friday: 6:15 and 8:15 AM Saturday: 8:15 AM
Confessions: Saturday: 3-3:45PM
Adoration:
Available in Our Lady Mother of the Eucharist Chapel 24/7
PUZZLE Page
SUDOKU
Fun by the Numbers
Like puzzles? Then you’ll love sudoku. This mind-bending puzzle will have you hooked from the moment you square off, so sharpen your pencil and put your sudoku savvy to the test! Here’s How
It Works: Sudoku puzzles are formatted as a 9x9 grid, broken down into nine 3x3 boxes. To solve a sudoku, the numbers 1 through 9 must fill each row, column and box. Each number can appear only once in each row, column and box. You can figure out the order in which the numbers will appear by using the numeric clues already provided in the boxes. The more numbers you name, the easier it gets to solve the puzzle!
CLUES ACROSS
1. Major American automaker (abbr.)
4. Pressure measurement
7. Two-year-old sheep
10. Indigenous person from Laos or Thailand
11. Up in the air (abbr.)
12. Actress de Armas
13. Not moving
15. Cool!
16. Bog arum genus
19. Perceptible by touch
21. Type of test
23. Monetary units
24. Collection of various things
25. Sum of five and one
26. Type of sword
27. Hates
30. Immobile
34. Pie _ _ mode
35. Moved quickly
36. Passenger’s place on a motorbike
41. A way through
45. Former US Secretary of Education Duncan
46. Leader
47. Flowing
50. Greetings
54. Remedy
55. Soft lightweight fabric
56. Building material
57. Sea bream
59. A way to cause to be swollen
60. One and only
61. People get one in summer
62. Wreath
63. Thus far
64. They __
65. Sea eagle
CLUES DOWN
1. Policemen (French)
2. Toy dog
3. Inflamed colon disease
4. Can’t move
5. Helps little firms
6. Lists of names, subjects, etc.
7. Takes down
8. Makes possible
9. Wife of Julius Constantius
13. Engine additive
14. Arctic explorers (abbr.)
17. Written account
18. Consumed
20. Something the first shall be
22. No (slang)
27. Gov’t lawyers
28. Peyton’s little brother
29. Small amount
31. Investment vehicle
32. Fall behind
33. Midway between northeast and east
37. Head pain
38. Popular sport in England and India
39. King Charles’s sister
40. Boat race
41. About fish
42. Maidservant
43. Able to be marketed
44. Tinier
47. Parts per billion (abbr.)
48. Paddle
4.9 Oneness
51. Bitter chemical
52. Not around
53. Very fast airplane
58. Swiss river ACHIEVEMENT
THRILLING TRAIL BLAZE
Sports
Firebirds win a title in Minnesota
The Firebirds Soccer Club’s U-12 Black team competed in the recent Target USA CUP in Blaine, Minnesota. The USA CUP is the largest youth soccer tournament in the country. The Firebirds’ U-12 boys team went undefeated at the tournament, winning six straight matches over three days (July 12-14) to claim the championship in the event’s 12B Blue level. The Firebirds beat the Minnesota Thunder Academy (MTA) Swoosh team 2-0 in the final on July 14. The Firebirds piled up 32 goals while allowing five goals during their six matches at the tournament.
SUBMITTED PHOTOS Rock Valley Publishing
SUBMITTED PHOTO Rock Valley Publishing
Thirteen student-athletes from Montini Catholic High School achieved Chicago Catholic League (CCL) All-Conference status during the 2024 spring season. Junior Santino Florio earned All-Conference recognition in two sports—lacrosse and track and field. The Broncos who received All-Conference honors during the spring season (pictured left to right) are: (bottom row) Track and Field—senior George Asay, Florio, junior Nich-
olas Irion (Lombard), junior Vincent Irion (Lombard), sophomore Joseph Gabreleski (Lombard) and sophomore Nico Castaldo; Volleyball—junior Hunter Ross; (top row) Baseball—senior Quinn Boyer, senior Jack Calcagno, senior Cassius Campbell and senior Anthony Manganello; Lacrosse—junior Ryan Andres, Florio and sophomore Santino Tenuta. Boyer was named the CCL White Division’s Player of the Year in baseball.
Dance camp at Montini
Montini Catholic High School’s dance team held its annual Dance Upon a Star Summer Camp at the school last week. The 68 girls who attended the three-day event concluded the camp with a showcase of performances for their families in the school’s main gymnasium on Aug. 1. Members of Montini’s dance team—the Broncettes—guided the campers during the showcase. All of the campers have been invited to perform with the Broncettes during halftime of an upcoming 2024 varsity football game at Montini.
CHRIS FOX PHOTOS Rock Valley Publishing
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7 CEMETERY PLOTS Willing to sell as a group or individually. Located at Roselawn Memory Gardens 3045 WI-67, Lake Geneva, WI 53147. This is a private sale. Contact Randy, the seller at randy@slpublishers.com.
Furniture
AUTOMOBILES
Motorcycles
RVs 1994 WINNEBAGO WARRIOR 22’ V8 454 engine, 97,200 miles. Newer tires, new battery, new sub floor and flooring. Rooftop A/C works great. Rust free, runs good and ready for travel! Some updates have been done to the interior, but still needs some minor finishing. Asking $10,500. Located near Rockford. Call 815520-0997.
FOR SALE: 2007 HARLEY DAVIDSON FLHTCU, full dress bagger, 96 cu.in., 6 speed, excellent condition, 13,000 miles on the clock. All stock with bag liners, tour pack rack & Garmin GPS. Includes motorcycle lift for winter storage. Buy it now in time for Sturgis. $8,500 OBO. 630-6241323; leave a voicemail.
PUBLISHER’S NOTICE All real estate advertising in this newspaper is subject to the Fair Housing Act which makes it illegal to advertise any preference, limitation or discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, disability, familiar/ status or national origin, or an intention to make any such preference, limitation or discrimination. Familial status includes children under the age of 18 living with parents or legal custodians, pregnant women and people securing custody of children under 18. This newspaper will not knowingly accept any advertising for real estate which is in violation of the law. Our readers are hereby informed that all dwellings advertised in this newspaper are available on an equal opportunity basis. To complain of discrimination call HUD tollfree at 1-900-669-9777. The toll-free tele phone number for the hearing impaired is 1-800-927-9275. EQUAL HOUSING OPPORTUNITY
Elmhurst (630) 834-8244 or Lombard (630) 627-7010 TO PLACE YOUR CLASSIFIED AD!
Sonya Massey, mother called 911 multiple times in days before her death to report mental health crises
Woman shot by deputy had been in contact with mental health crisis teams hours earlier
By Beth Hundsdorfer CAPITOL NEWS ILLINOIS
The day before she was shot by a Sangamon County Sheriff’s deputy, Sonya Massey’s mother called 911 and said her daughter was in the front yard of her mother’s house, talking loudly, acting erratically with her car keys in her hand.
Afraid that she would drive recklessly and cause a crash, Donna Massey did what the counselors had told her to do. She called the police, even though she said she was afraid.
“I don’t want you guys to hurt her. Please,” Donna Massey said during a two-minute 911 call made the morning of July 5.
During that call, Donna Massey said her daughter was not a danger to herself or others but was having a mental breakdown and thought people were out to get her, like a “paranoid schizophrenic.”
Donna Massey made a request of the dispatcher.
“Please don’t send no combative policemen that are prejudiced. Please,” Donna Massey said. “They are scary. I’m scared of the police.”
The dispatcher reassured her that the officers would do their jobs.
“Help is on the way,” he said before ending the call.
Records show when law enforcement and medical personnel arrived, Sonya Massey refused medical care. She denied she was suicidal or homicidal. Records showed
“ I don’t want you guys to hurt her. Please.”
– Donna Massey
they left about an hour after getting Donna Massey’s call.
About 16 hours later, ambulance personnel would return to Massey’s residence, this time, summoned by deputies. Massey was lying on her kitchen floor bleeding from a fatal gunshot wound to her face.
Sean Grayson, was one of the Sangamon County Sheriff’s deputies that responded to Massey’s 911 call to report noises she had heard outside her residence near Springfield. Body camera video showed Grayson shoot Massey, who appeared confused during her exchange with the officers, shuffling through paperwork and looking at her cell phone. At one point, Grayson gives her permission to remove a pot with hot liquid from the stove. As she does, his partner moves back when Massey takes the pot.
“I rebuke you in the name of Jesus,” she said.
Grayson then threatens to shoot her in the face and puts his hand on his weapon. Massey ducks behind a counter, puts her hands up, apologizes then comes up and has the
upended pot in her hand.
Seconds later, Grayson fires three times, striking Massey once just below her left eye.
After the shooting, Grayson radioed dispatch and asked whether Massey was 10-96—police code for the mental health case.
Later, when a fellow deputy asked if he was all right, he responded, “Yeah, I’m OK. This f--ing b---h is crazy.”
At the scene, another unidentified deputy checked around the house prior to Massey being shot. Body camera footage showed broken windows on a car parked in Massey’s driveway.
In that body camera video, the deputies asked Massey who owned the car. Massey said it wasn’t hers and she said she needed help.
“Please, God. Please, God,” she said at one point during the exchange. “I don’t know what to do.”
Grayson asked if Massey was doing all right mentally.
“Yes,” she responds, telling officers she took her medicine. “I love y’all. Thank you, all.”
Grayson persists in his questioning regarding the damaged car.
Deputies enter the home and Grayson asks her name. Massey falters.
Massey tells the deputies she has paperwork to show them, but she can’t find it as she sifts through a bag on her couch. Sangamon County Emergency Telephone Systems
Department/911 records show Massey had been in contact with mental health crisis teams after her mother’s 911 call the morning of July 5.
Massey had also called 911 the afternoon before she died to report that a neighbor threw a brick at her and broke the car windows.
Massey sounds agitated during the call, not speaking directly to the dispatcher. On the recording, she can be heard saying that she is looking for the neighbor.
“You come anywhere near this car I’m going to kill you, ho,” Massey is heard saying while on the 911 call.
Massey would offer police differing accounts, then agreed to go to St. John’s Hospital in Springfield around 2 p.m. on July 5, according to dispatch notes. She had abrasions to her arms and wanted treatment for her mental condition.
Dispatch notes show Massey would tell police at the hospital that she broke the windows herself so she could get inside her car. She said that she had been in contact with mobile crisis response teams earlier that week, and she believed the mobile crisis team and Springfield Police tried to run her off the road. She also said she had recently been discharged from a mental hospital in Granite City.
Gateway Regional Medical Center in Granite City operates a 20bed, in-patient behavioral health
unit. They did not return calls for comment.
A Sangamon County grand jury indicted Grayson with first-degree murder in Massey’s shooting. He was fired from the sheriff’s department after the charges were filed.
The Illinois Fraternal Order of Police Labor Council filed a grievance last week related to Grayson’s dismissal, saying he was fired without just cause. The union was seeking Grayson’s reinstatement, backpay and lost benefits, but it dropped the grievance earlier this week. Grayson, 30, remains detained until trial on the murder charges. Grayson worked for six law enforcement entities in central Illinois in four years. Records showed that he was hired by multiple departments despite two driving under the influence convictions. The Logan County Sheriff’s Department also found that Grayson wasn’t accurate in his report writing and failed to halt a high-speed chase when his supervisor ordered him to terminate it.
Some of the concerns were documented in a two-hour meeting with Logan County Chief Deputy Nathan Miller. At the time of the meeting, Grayson was battling colon cancer and was working light duty.
Grayson resigned from Logan County in 2023 after he accepted a job at the Sangamon County Sheriff’s Office.
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