Elmhurst Panhellenic Foundation grants scholarships
The Elmhurst Panhellenic Foundation recently granted college scholarships totaling $10,000 to six Elmhurst women. Funds for the scholarships were raised at the “An Eerie-sistable Evening” fundraiser. The foundation’s 2025 scholarships were granted at an April 10 reception. Three of this year’s scholarship recipients—Libby Barron, Maddy Brooks and Olivia Glod—attend York High School. Three other recipients—Sami Drye, Melanie Garcia and Saniya Hobson—attend Timothy Christian High School. One photo shows (above left, left to right) Glod, Barron and Hobson. Brooks (bottom right), Garcia (top right) and Drye (above middle) are pictured individually. The Elmhurst Panhellenic Foundation grants higher education scholarships to local Elmhurst women based upon financial need, academic excellence, extracurricular participation, merit and service. Since it was organized in 1931, the foundation has awarded more than $460,000 in scholarships. For more information about the foundation, visit its website at elmhurstpanhellenic.com.
New performance space a welcome addition to historical society
By Jane Charmelo FOR THE ELMHURST
In a little over a month, the Elmhurst Historical Society (EHS) will celebrate the opening of its new “band shell,” but talk to EHS Executive Director Dave Oberg, and he states it will really be more than a place to attend music concerts.
“I call this a ‘public performance space,’ ” he emphasized, saying that the site will become available for not only music concerts, but for family-friendly events like storytelling, dramatic presentations and “Museum Maker Mondays,” among other events.
Oberg further envisions that it will be “a significant staging point for summer camp … a nice activity station.”
Located on the east lawn of the 1.37-acre campus, the EHS broke ground last October on the new performance center. The EHS, in 2021, had applied for an Illinois Department of Natural Resources Public Museum Capital Grant, “to help make this happen,” in part because the society was ramping up larger programs, the director outlined.
For example, he said, the Elmhurst Heritage Foundation—the fundraising arm of
the EHS—would hold its annual beer fest on the campus, “and that has grown significantly over the years.”
“We recognized we needed a better staging ground,” Oberg added. “We knew this would be a ‘capacity builder.’”
With the COVID-19 pandemic driving up costs, after the $695,500 grant was awarded in 2022, the Elmhurst Heritage Foundation “helped us raise $60,000,” he related, praising that “These guys are the wind beneath my wings.”
Oberg also credited the City of Elmhurst for their involvement, saying, “These guys have been really terrific,” and combined with the Elmhurst
Heritage Foundation, EHS staff and the architects, “Everybody worked to make this happen.”
Oberg said that during events, he can convert a portion of the east parking lot into “flex space.” He added that there is an easily accessible parking garage nearby at 120 W. Adelaide.
He believes the new public performance space will benefit the whole community, and it will give the EHS “a better idea of what people enjoy … It’s going to be a great amenity overall.”
Calling it a “mini-Ravinia,” Oberg said it “really creates a sense of place.”
“You really feel like you’re on this campus,” he added.
Schedule of events
⦁ Friday, June 6, 6:30 p.m.: Inaugural Elmhurst History Museum Concert Celebrate the opening of the public performance space and the 50th anniversary of the museum of the Glos Mansion home. Guests are invited to enjoy a ribbon-cutting ceremony and remarks from the Elmhurst History Museum team, followed by a performance by musicians from the Elmhurst Symphony Orchestra.
⦁ Sunday, June 22, 2 p.m.: Jim Gill Kids Concert
Presented by musician and child development specialist
Jim Gill, the concert will offer more than a performance; Jim provides an opportunity for children, parents, grandparents and caregivers to experience the joy of music play together.
⦁ Sunday, July 13, 1-4 p.m.: Family Farm Fest featuring Bourbon Aristocracy
Everyone is invited to attend this family-friendly visit back in time to the early days of Elmhurst this summer. Attendees can enjoy live music from Bluegrass band Bourbon
Aristocracy; meet chickens, goats and llamas at the petting zoo; touch a historic tractor; learn about harvesting honey from a beekeeper; try out old fashioned farm chores; and more.
⦁ Fourth Fridays Summer Concert Series
Enjoy the first summer concert series. From June to September, guests can experience an eclectic lineup of concerts on the fourth Friday of each month. Free to attend. Chairs, blankets, coolers welcome.
See SPACE, Page 7
Last October, the
performance
raising from the
guests on June 6, to
that includes a
the
and thanks to a
the
and also
will be
PHOTOS COURTESY OF DAVE OBERG Elmhurst Independent
Elmhurst Historical Society broke ground on a new outdoor public
space
band shell,
state grant and fund-
Elmhurst Heritage Foundation,
museum
ready to welcome
celebrate
grand opening
the 50th anniversary of the Glos Mansion house. Pictured above at the groundbreaking are (left to right) George Szczepaniak, Elmhurst Heritage Foundation president; Scott Levin, mayor of Elmhurst; Dave Oberg, Elmhurst History Museum executive director; and Jess Wandersee, Elmhurst History Museum curator of Education and Public Programs.
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UCCA to host Taste of the Town: Dining for a Cause event on May 15
United Community Concerns Association (UCCA) will host the eighth annual Taste of the Town: Dining for a Cause, an Elmhurst food and drink experience, on Thursday, May 15, from 6-10 p.m. at Wilder Mansion, 211 S. Prospect Ave.
“This year, our efforts continue to grow as the demand for support continues to grow with unprecedented numbers. We have seen a sustained need from District 205 families, underscoring the importance
of our community’s support in addressing hunger and providing essential services,” said Shari Haug, UCCA president.
The evening will showcase food, wine, and beer tastings from 15 Elmhurst businesses. Proceeds from the Taste of the Town: Dining for a Cause will benefit UCCA, an all-volunteer, not-for-profit organization that fights hunger by providing food, referrals, and services to Elmhurst District 205’s most financially disad-
Elmhurst Independent Taste of the Town Committee member Geri Sorrentino (left) meets with Gia Imran (right) of GIA MIA and Ella’s Italian Pub to discuss plans for its upcoming benefit, Taste of the Town: Dining for a Cause, which will take place on Thursday, May 15, at Wilder Mansion.
vantaged children and their families. Last year UCCA provided food and grocery store gift cards to 375 families and 81 senior citizens.
Tickets are $75 per person in advance, and $80 after Thursday, May 8, or at the door. Visit ucca-elmhurst.org to purchase tickets online or send payment to UCCA, P.O. Box 324, Elmhurst, IL 60126.
Participating restaurants include: Bottle Theory, Café Liberty, Ella’s Italian Pub, Firewater BBQ, Fitz’s Pub, Francesca’s Amici, GIA MIA, Kilwins Elmhurst, Lezza Spumoni & Desserts, Modern Plate, Pilot Pete’s Coffee & Treats, Primos Locos, Roberto’s Ristorante & Pizzeria, Rough Edges Confectionery, and Tannins Wine Bar & Boutique.
Sponsors include: 7-11, BMO Harris-Rob Hallberg, Bonheur White Glove Serving, Inc., Bottle Theory, Café Liberty, Carousel Flowers by Shamrock Gardens Florist, Community Bank of Elmhurst, Edward Jones–Michael Hirsch, Elmhurst Bank, the Elmhurst Independent, the Elmhurst Park District, the Elmhurst Public Library, Euclid Beverage, Fitz’s Pub, Great American Exteriors, Guaranteed Rate–John Noldan, Kelly Stetler–Compass, LW Reedy, Lakeside Bank, Mehta Motors Inc./My Car Wash, Roberto’s Ristorante & Pizzeria, Stolper State Farm, Tail Gate, Tannins, W3Body Elmhurst, and Wilkins Hyundai Mazda Genesis.
Elmhurst American Legion Post members hold election
Pulia wins another
Incumbent Elmhurst American Legion Post Commander Eric Pulia was re-elected to a second term on Tuesday, April 22.
In a very close election, Pulia won re-election by a threevote margin, with the final tally being 40-37.
“It was a packed house, I have never seen that many members come out to a meeting; it would be great if we could always get that many people out to every meeting” Pulia said. His opponent was long-time past Post Commander John Scudder, who served prior to Pulia taking the post commander position last September. In the previous year’s election, a total of 57 members voted. This year, 77 members voted.
“For nothing else, it is nice to see people getting engaged with the organization again based on the increased turn-
term as post commander
out” Pulia said. “I pledge to work with anyone who wants to better this organization, including those who didn’t support me in this election.”
The post’s members also re-elected longtime Finance Officer Al Bertolani and Junior Vice Commander Matt Aldinger to their respective positions, and welcomed longtime
volunteer Tom Augustyn to the Senior Vice Commander position. At the conclusion of last week’s vote, Zachery DeRose was appointed to serve as the new Sergeant at Arms, and retired Navy Commander Mike Kerley of Elmhurst was appointed to be the new Post Adjutant. The new terms begin in September of this year.
named Montini’s 2025
prom queen
Montini Catholic High School held its 2025 prom on Friday, April 25, at Bolingbrook Country Club. The theme of this year’s event was “The Roaring 2020s.” Montini’s prom court included 10 seniors— five boys and five girls. The prom king and queen were announced during Friday’s celebration. The school’s 2025 prom king and queen, are Collins Whitfield (left) and Autumn Schumerth (right). Schumerth is an Elmhurst resident.
Elmhurst American Legion Post Commander Eric Pulia was re-elected to a second term last week. Pulia edged past Post Commander John Scudder 40-37 in the election of April 22. One photo (above) shows Pulia (right) with his maternal grandfather—United States Navy Korean War veteran Gerald Murrin (left). Another photo (left) shows Pulia (right) with Post Junior Vice Commander Matthew Aldinger (left).
District 205 Board meeting summary
By Chris Fox ELMHURST INDEPENDENT
The Elmhurst Community Unit School District 205 Board held a regular meeting on April 24 at the District 205 Center, 162 S. York St.
All seven board members attended the meeting. Board recognizes York teacher
The meeting’s spotlight and recognition segment noted York teacher Kristen Bartholomew, who was chosen by District 205 as its 2024 Career and Technical Education (CTE) Teacher of the Year. Bartholomew is a fulltime teacher in York’s business department. The complimentary comments about Bartholomew related that she works to make sure York’s teachers and students have their devices ready for the school year.
Obituary
TRAVIS CLIFTON CALVERT, JR., 78
Travis Clifton Calvert, Jr., 78, passed away peacefully at home surrounded by his family on Monday, April 21, 2025.
Born on February 9, 1947, in Chicago, Illinois, Travis was a devoted husband, proud father, and a friend to everyone he met. He is survived by his beloved wife, Claudia; his daughter, Lauren, and her husband, Jeremy; and his son, Cliff, with whom he shared an
York student journalist wins state award
The spotlight and recognition segment also honored York senior Kate Brody, who was recently named the Illinois Journalist of the Year by the Illinois Journalism Education Association (IJEA). That distinction is the highest honor awarded to a high school journalist in the state. Brody, the editor-in-chief of the school’s student newsletter, “This is York,” is the 36th student in Illinois history, and the first from York, to receive the award.
The board’s proclamation honoring Brody referred to her exceptional reporting, writing and leadership, “setting a high standard for student journalism through her compelling storytelling and powerful blend of writing and photography.”
Brody will represent Illinois in the National High School Journalist of the Year competition hosted by the Journalism Education Association (JEA).
York art students chosen to take part in exhibition
The students honored during the April 22 meeting’s spotlight and recognition segment included the 12 York students who were selected to participate in the 12th Annual Illinois High School Art Exhibition (IHSAE), the state’s premier recognition program for high school visual artists. The exhibition showcases the creations of student artists from more than 125 Illinois high schools.
The York students artists who were selected to participate in the exhibition included: Bradley Crisanto,
Deaghan Connell, Evie Exiner, Madeline Hsieh, Avery Jacobsthal, Delilah Kamins, Allison Kocinski, Louis Krzak, Devin Makinney, Jack McComb, Alena Ongkiko and Connor Thibos.
Principal of Fischer Elementary School highlights progress
Dr. Efraín Martinez, the principal of Conrad Fischer Elementary School, gave a brief presentation during the spotlight and recognition segment.
Martinez spoke about progress at the school since he became its principal nearly two years ago.
District parent calls for smaller class sizes for Edison second-graders
There was one speaker during the meeting’s pub-
lic-participation segment. The speaker, who is a District 205 parent and an elementary school teacher in another district, said she was advocating for smaller class sizes for second-graders at Edison Elementary School. She said Edison has two sections of second grade; one section has 26 students, while the other has 27. The speaker said children at that grade level deserve smaller class sizes.
Board approves agreement with district’s PSRP employees
Board members voted unanimously during the meeting to approve the district’s new three-year collective bargaining agreement with its paraprofessional and school related personnel (PSRP) employees. The previous deal was set to expire this summer.
The new three-year deal runs from July 1, 2025, to June 30, 2028. The district’s PSRP employees include educational assistants, office staff, paraprofessionals, and all non-certified employees. The union for the district’s PSRP employees ratified the new agreement the week prior to the April 22 board meeting.
District 205 Board President Athena Arvanitis noted that the district’s PSRP employees are an integral part of the daily functioning in all of the district’s school buildings.
After voting to approve the new collective bargaining agreement, board members voted unanimously to approve a memorandum of understanding with the union representing the district’s PSRP employees.
especially close bond. Nothing brought him more pride than the accomplishments of his children and the strength, compassion, and dedication of his wife. He is also survived by siblings David, Kathy, and Dawn, sisters-in-law Mary and Chris, and many loving nieces and nephews.
Travis never met a stranger—he had a gift for conversation and a warm, friendly nature that made everyone feel welcome, whether they were family, friends, or just someone standing next to him in line. He was also a lifelong jokester, always armed with a joke or pun to make his family laugh. He loved spend-
ing time with Cliff, and their many spontaneous adventures—fishing trips, car rides, or simple errands—became treasured memories. They were truly best friends.
Travis was especially proud of earning his college degree later in life—an achievement he worked hard for and never gave up on. He had a lifelong love of vintage cars, and many happy family outings were spent at car shows and museums admiring classic designs.
At home, he found joy in working on projects—always eager to learn new skills, take on new challenges, and make things better with his own
hands. From tiling bathrooms and laying wood floors to working on the family’s old Mustang, he poured care and craftsmanship into everything he did.
Travis’s legacy is one of love, humor, curiosity, and the deep connections he formed with everyone around him. He will be dearly missed.
A visitation will be held on Friday, May 2, at 9:00 a.m. at Visitation Catholic Church (Fireside Room), 779 S. York Street, Elmhurst, followed by a funeral Mass at 10:00 a.m. Donations in Travis’ name can be made to the American Liver Foundation, https://liverfoundation.org/.
Dr. Kelly talks straight about sciatica
Are you suffering from back pain or sciatica? Then it’s likely your biggest problem is pain. But there’s another major problem: bad information. To end sciatica misery you must have the right information. Pay close attention because local doctor Kelly Synowiec-Moroney DC is going to destroy sciatica myths and give you the facts.
MYTH: Sciatica will just “go away” with some rest.
FACT: If you are dealing with back pain, buttock pain or leg pain, then you must seek help from a doctor who is knowledgeable in sciatica immediately. Left untreated, sciatica can lead to permanent nerve damage - and lifelong pain.
MYTH: Pain is the only problem associated with sciatica.
FACT: In severe cases, sciatica can lead to the inability to control your bowels or bladder - leading to embarrassing situations.
MYTH: You must take pain medications to deal with sciatica.
FACT: Drugs like muscle relaxants, pain killers, narcotics, antidepressants, and anti-seizure medications have serious potential side-effects and do not cure the root cause of sciatica.
MYTH: “I must have done something wrong to get sciatica.”
FACT: Physical work or simply sitting at a desk for long periods can lead to sciatica. Accidents and trauma can also be the culprits. Pregnancy can cause
sciatica. Sciatica can affect anyone - including superfit celebrities like Tiger Woods, Sylvester Stallone, and British Olympic medallist Ian Wynne.
MYTH: Stop exercising and get several weeks of bed rest to overcome sciatica.
FACT: Staying active can help to relieve sciatic pain and prevent the pain getting worse. Staying inactive in bed could be the worst advice - based on a recent study in the Netherlands.
MYTH: Sciatica requires surgery.
FACT: NO! There’s been a huge breakthrough in the treatment of sciatica and lower back pain. It’s a new procedure called Non-Surgical ReConstructive Spinal Care. The excellent results from this treatment have been published in major medical journals. Success rates are up to 88%.
MYTH: “There’s nothing anyone can really do. I’m just stuck with this for the rest of my life.”
FACT: With the correct treatment from a healthcare professional who specialises in sciatica, you can find relief from the core cause - and the symptoms.
MYTH: Getting Sciatica properly diagnosed is expensive.
FACT: Not true. We are currently offering an initial consultation right here in Elmhurst for Just $79.
We have helped over 2,637 patients find relief from agonising back pain and sciatica. We are one of the first places to use Non-Surgical Re-
Constructive Spinal Care.
This procedure does not require a hospital stay. The focus is on finding - and correcting - the original cause of the back pain and sciatica.
According to Dr. Kelly, “We use a combination of ultra-advanced technology, not found elsewhere in the region, for precisely diagnosing the cause of your low back pain and sciatica. This means superior long-term results for most people.”
Because the treatment is non-surgical, safe, and easy, most patients report an almost immediate relief from their back pain.
Patient Jeff P. from Berwyn wrote, “My back pain was unbearable but the worst thing was the searing burning pain I felt in my buttock and leg... my wife insisted I see doctor Dr. Kelly. I’m 95% better in just a couple of weeks.”
Take the Next Step - END the Suffering... Initial Consultation Just $79
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Call her office now and get a full initial consultation to pinpoint the cause of your problem for just $79.
You can even call on the weekend as there is always a staff member ready to assist you. During the week they are very busy, so if they don’t pick up straight away do leave a message.
Police beat
The Elmhurst Police Department recently reported the following arrests and citations. Persons charged with domestic battery are not named in order to protect the privacy of victims. Readers are reminded that an arrest does not constitute a conviction, and that subjects are considered innocent unless proven guilty in a court of law. Juveniles age 17 or younger are not named.
Battery
April 24
Francis J. Pedote, 57, of Elmhurst, was issued a citation for battery in the 1000 block of S. York. Police said that during a verbal argument, the suspect hit the victim’s phone out of his hand.
April 23
Eric Devito, 77, of Elmhurst, was charged with battery in the 100 block of S. Euclid at 11:20 a.m. Police said the suspect was agitated and loud, prompting complaints from other residents. When a nurse tried to intervene, police said he became enraged and struck her in the arm.
Criminal trespassing, criminal damage
April 21
Police said a complainant in the 100 block of Fellows reported parking her car on March 8, and upon her return to the parking lot, found that three of the vehicle’s tires had been slashed. According to police, a warrant for criminal damage to property was obtained for the suspect, Rasheed Shabazz, 29, of Lombard, who turned himself in on the warrant on the above date.
April 18
A complainant in the 100 block of N. Evergreen told police that his tenant damaged a door frame after being locked out.
A 20-year-old Bolingbrook man was charged with two counts of domestic battery in the 500 block of W. St. Charles at 12:32 a.m. The victim had scratches to his neck, shoulder and chest.
April 22
A 29-year-old Elmhurst woman was charged with domestic battery in the 500 block of W. Grand at 1:21 p.m. Police said subsequent to a report of a female striking a male with a shoe, officers located and arrested the suspect for domestic battery.
April 21
A victim in the 800 block of Hillside reported his son had banged on the window and threatened to throw a brick through it. The suspect denied threatening his parents and stated that he only wanted to pick up some of his belongings that were still at the residence.
April 19
A 23-year-old Elgin man was charged with two counts of domestic battery in the 300 block of N. Route 83 at 1:20 a.m. Police said an off-duty officer observed the suspect batter the victim.
April 17
Margaret C. Hurley, 25, of Webster, New York, was issued a citation for disorderly conduct/false report in the 100 block of E. North.
Police said that subsequent to the report of a hit-and-run involving a pedestrian, officers reviewed surveillance footage and observed Hurley exit her vehicle and lunge toward the other vehicle.
DUI, consumption of alcohol by a minor, illegal possession of alcohol
April 21
Jose L. Hernandez, 70, of Chicago, was charged with DUI, driving while license suspended and no seat belt subsequent to a traffic stop near Lake and Grand at 2:14 a.m.
Alfredo Perez, 25, of Chicago, was charged with DUI and possession of alcohol in a vehicle in the 100 block of N. York at 8:38 a.m.
John A. Youngquist, 45, of Elmhurst, was charged with DUI-drugs and no insurance in the 400 block of N. York.
April 19
Steve W. Shepherd, 60, of Elmhurst, was charged with DUI, disobeying stop signs and improper lighting subsequent to a traffic stop near West and Armitage at 1:47 a.m.
Harassment, threats
March 27
A victim in the 100 block of S. Prospect reported she received a harassing text message from an unknown suspect.
Identity theft, fraud
According to information provided by the Elmhurst Police Department, police reported three incidents of identity theft or fraud.
Leaving the scene of an accident
April 18
Jonathan M. Carachi, 18, of Chicago, was issued citations for leaving the scene of an accident, improper lane usage and no insurance in the 600 block of W. Grand.
Possession of cannabis in a vehicle
Michael R. Fritz, 19, of Elmwood Park, was charged with possession of cannabis by either the driver or passenger of a vehicle in the 100 block of S. Route 83 at 12:11 a.m.
Possession of a controlled substance
April 19
Jose E. Godniez, 51, of Villa Park, was charged with possession of a controlled substance, parking on a roadway and transportation of open alcohol by a driver in the 100
block of N. York at 7:35 a.m. Police said that subsequent to the report of a vehicle stopped in traffic, the suspect was found to be asleep at the wheel and in possession of open alcohol. The suspect was taken into custody and transported to the police station, where it was reportedly determined he was in possession of a controlled substance.
Warrant arrest
April 23
Police said while on patrol in the 100 block of E. North, an officer observed a vehicle reported stolen out of Homewood and conducted an investigative stop. According to police, the vehicle was confirmed stolen, and the suspect, Brian H. Meyer, 53, of Elmhurst, was found to be driving with a suspended, and to have a failure to appear warrant out of DuPage County. Meyer also was charged with conspiracy/theft of rented vehicle and driving with a suspended license.
Suspicious incident
April 21
Police said a complainant in the 400 block of N. Van Auken reported her neighbor threw steaks into her yard toward her dogs and was worried that the steaks may have been poisoned. According to police, the neighbor admitted to throwing the steaks but denied poisoning them.
April 17
An employee at a coffee shop in the 100 block of N. York reported an unknown subject caused a disturbance at the business and would like him served with a no-trespass notice. The subject was served with a no-trespass notice.
April 7-April 12
A victim in the 700 block of S. Fairview reported the suspect violated a stalking no contact order by sending emails to the victim through third parties between the above dates.
Police said that subsequent to a report of a retail theft in progress, the suspects were located with stolen liquor. Chester A. Harp, 63, of Chicago, was charged with retail theft and unlawful Possession of drug paraphernalia. Sheila Manuel, 56, of Chicago, was charged with retail theft and obstructing identification.
April 19-April 20
A complainant in the 200 block of N. Elm reported an unknown suspect(s) entered his unlocked vehicle and stole several bottles of wine, multiple pairs of sunglasses and his wallet.
April 17
A victim in the 100 block of N. Addison reported that an unknown suspect(s) had damaged the driver-side window on his vehicle. He advised nothing was taken from inside his vehicle.
April 3
A complainant in the 600 block of W. Lake reported that a suspect picked up an order that was never delivered.
Not in our state: Illinois urgently calls on residents to help stop hate
Illinois has faced an alarming surge in hate and extremism, following national trends. Hate crimes have skyrocketed 125 percent statewide since 2021, with bias based on race, religion, sexual orientation, and gender identity driving over 95 percent of incidents.
Now, the Illinois Department of Human Rights (IDHR) and Illinois Commission on Discrimination and Hate Crimes (CDHC) urgently call on all residents to report acts of hate through the Help Stop Hate initiative—a safe, confidential service that provides support and resources.
“At this moment in time, when some are influencing or condoning hateful violence and rhetoric, we are encouraging Illinoisans to take action by reporting all acts of hate,” said Gov. JB Pritzker. “Help Stop Hate not only empowers impacted individuals to break the cycle of silence and seek specialized support, but it also helps us foster a safer, more inclusive Illinois.”
“The surge in vitriol, violence and hate-fueled acts in Illinois is truly distressing. It’s incumbent upon every Illinoisan to make it clear: hate has no home in Illinois,” said Lieu-
tenant Gov. Juliana Stratton.
“Help Stop Hate is a vital tool to empower our communities by encouraging people to speak up, report what they see, and stand together against intolerance in all its forms.”
Since its launch, Help Stop Hate has emerged as a vital lifeline for survivors, offering immediate relief through anonymous reporting, trauma-informed care, and connections to services—such as legal aid—to fill gaps where traditional systems fall short. The service is a statewide priority that supports targeted individuals while informing new policies for confronting hate. Still, the state faces significant challenges with underreported acts of hate, which limits the ability to prevent and respond to hate effectively. Progress hinges on support from every Illinoisan.
To further drive awareness and action, IDHR and CDHC have launched a statewide, multilingual advertising campaign. IDHR and CDHC are also partnering with local organizations and municipalities across Illinois to help stop hate. These partners include the City of Moline, the City of Urbana, the City of Champaign, and Not in Our Town Blooming-
ton-Normal.
Acts of hate are defined as those that target people based on their actual or perceived race, creed, color, religion, ancestry, gender, sexual orientation, physical or mental disability, citizenship, immigration status, or national origin. Hate incidents are categorized into hate crimes, bias-motivated civil rights violations, and hateful, but legal expressions. Help Stop Hate allows Illinoisans to report acts of hate safely and anonymously, with no affiliation to law enforcement or immigration authorities. Personal information will only be shared with law enforcement if legally required and will never be shared with immigration agencies. Illinoisans can report online to Help Stop Hate anytime in seven languages: English, Spanish, Polish, Mandarin, Tagalog, Arabic or Hindi. The phone line is open between noon and 9 p.m. CT, Monday to Friday, to English and Spanish speakers.
Victims or witnesses can report acts of hate online anytime at ILStopHate.org or over the phone at 877-458-HATE (4283) between noon-9 p.m. CT weekdays.
Court grants state’s motion to detain pre-trial a Lombard man accused of fleeing from police/crashing into another vehicle
DuPage County State’s Attorney Robert Berlin and Villa Park Deputy Chief of Police
Daniel McCann announced earlier this week that Judge Louis Aranda granted the state’s motion to deny pre-trial release for a Lombard man accused of crashing into another vehicle after fleeing from police at a high rate of speed.
Andres Galvez, 37, appeared in court on Sunday, April 27, and was charged with two counts of aggravated fleeing and eluding a police officer (one Class 3 felony and one Class 4 felony) and more than a dozen misdemeanor and petty traffic offenses, including reckless driving and driving with a re-
• Meeting
voked license.
Galvez is currently out on $150,000 bond for possession with intent to deliver cocaine (Class X felony) and aggravated fleeing and eluding, which was set three days prior to the state’s adoption of the Pre-Trial Fairness Act.
On Friday, April 25, at about 11:49 p.m., Villa Park Police Department officers attempted to conduct a traffic stop near Route 83 and Riverside Drive on a vehicle for allegedly speeding. It is alleged that when the officer activated his emergency lights and siren, the vehicle, later determined to be driven by Galvez, accelerated at a high rate of speed away from the officer and disobeyed the red light at
(Continued from page 5)
Board approves hiring of district’s new assistant superintendent of finance Board members voted to approve the hiring of Joseph Blomquist as District 205’s new assistant superintendent of finance/chief school business official. Blomquist will begin in the position on July 1, 2025, with an annual salary of $173,500.
District 205 Superintendent Keisha Campbell said Blomquist was chosen after a thorough search that included reference and background checks. The search was eventually narrowed down to two finalists, including Blomquist.
Blomquist is currently the director of business services in Lake Zurich Unit District 95. He previously held the same position in Yorkville Community Unit School District 115.
He also worked as an instrumental music teacher for 15 years, and served as a union president for the St. Charles Education Association for seven years, according to District 205.
Six District 205 Board members voted in favor of hiring Blomquist. One board member, Jim Collins, voted
• Space
Riverside Drive and Route 83. It is further alleged that as Galvez drove southbound on Route 83 near Butterfield Road, he was paced in excess of 104 mph as he fled from the officer. It is alleged that Galvez drove around a parked Oak Brook squad car, disobeyed the red light at Route 83 and 31st Street, and crashed into a vehicle occupied by three teenage girls, causing the airbags to deploy.
Paramedics treated the victims on scene with no serious injuries reported. Galvez was taken into custody at that time.
Galvez’s next court appearance is scheduled for May 27, in front of Judge Brian Telander.
Sculpture exhibition at Elmhurst Art Museum
Beginning today—May 1—a sculpture exhibition called “CROSSINGS” will be on display inside and outside of the Elmhurst Art Museum. The exhibition showcases works by artist Bernard Williams. In these works, Williams addresses the concept of mobility as both the physical movement forward and the human aspiration to rise to better circumstances. One of the sculptures by Williams in the “CROSSINGS” exhibition is Route 27, 2013-2025 (pictured). The piece of painted plywood and aluminum is 6 x 6 x 20 feet. The exhibition will run until Aug. 17 at the museum, which is located in Wilder Park.
present. Moments before the vote, Collins said he hadn’t spoken with or met Blomquist. Collins made a reference to the district’s annual expenditures of about $177 million last year.
“Judging by the résumé, it’s not the résumé I expected to see,” stated Collins. He added that he’s hoping the appointment works out, and that he wouldn’t vote against hiring Blomquist. Collins said that he could not vote for Blomquist based on his résumé.
Board approves superintendent’s new four-year contract
Board members voted unanimously, 7-0, during the meeting to approve a new contract for Campbell, who has been the district’s superintendent since the summer of 2021.
Before the April 22 meeting, Campbell’s contract was due to expire June 30, 2025. Board members voted during the meeting to terminate the current contract and enter into a new agreement with Campbell that will run from July 1, 2025, until June 30, 2029. The board did not provide financial terms of Campbell’s new contract during the meeting.
Arvanitis made a statement
(Continued from page 2)
The 2025 concert series is made possible in part by the Dr. Virginia R. Stewart Memorial Fund.
• Irving Sisters, Friday, June 27, 7 p.m. (Popular songs from the 1920s through the 1950s)
• Morry Sochat and The Special 20’s, Friday, July 25, 7 p.m. (Blues)
• Coffee Jazz Collective, Friday, Aug. 22, 7 p.m. (Jazz)
• Carpacho y Su Super
Combo, Friday, Sept. 26, 6 p.m. (Salsa and Cumbia Music)
All concerts and events are free and no registration is required. Guests can bring their own chairs/blankets for seating. The Elmhurst History Museum is located at 120 Park Ave., Elmhurst. For more information, call 630-530-6874 or visit www.elmhursthistory. org
praising Campbell as a tremendous asset to the district and the community. Arvanitis lauded Campbell for high standards, integrity and professionalism, and stated that the board is thrilled with its partnership with Campbell for the next four years.
Collins and Caforio exit leave the board
The April 22 meeting marked the final meeting as board members for both Collins and Kara Caforio. Collins exited the board after 16 years of service, while Caforio concluded eight years on the board.
Neither Collins nor Caforio sought re-election in the recent April 1 election. Arvanitis ran for and won a second term in that election. Two newcomers, Brian Bresnahan and Nicole Slowinski, also won seats on the board in the April 1 election. Arvanitis, Bresnahan and Slowinski were sworn in to new four-year terms on the board during the April 22 meeting.
Before Collins and Caforio exited the board during last week’s meeting, Campbell thanked them for their dedication and commitment in their years of unpaid service on the board. Other board members also addressed the two departing board members and thanked them for their contributions to the board and the district.
In his final remarks as a board member, Collins referred to significant financial challenges the district faced when he joined the board 16 years ago. He said that when he was first elected to the board in 2009, the district didn’t have enough money to pay all of its bills for that fiscal year. Collins said the board briefly discussed issuing tax anticipation warrants, which he described
as short-term borrowings to bridge the gap before new tax revenues come in.
Collins said that in 2010, the district had to lay off 56 staff members, and District 205 teachers had to take a base pay freeze for two years. Collins said he has focused on fiscal policies because he did not want to go through that process again.
“I think every board inherits a new set of challenges,” said Collins, who said that since 2011, the district has run a surplus in every year, except for one.
Collins said he has seen a lot of change in the last 16 years. He said he’s learned that the district should always set high expectations and admit its shortcomings. He also said that people move to Elmhurst because of the quality of its schools. Additionally, Collins said the board should always be fiscally responsible to its taxpayers, because those taxpayers have very long memories.
“I’m optimistic about the future of education in Elmhurst,” said Collins as he closed out his time on the board.
As they prepared to exit the board, Collins and Caforio both referred to the November 2018 referendum, in which district voters approved the borrowing of $168.5 million to improve the district’s facilities. Before she was first elected to the board in 2017, Caforio was an active PTA member who helped to gather input and feedback from the community to create the plan for the referendum that was approved in 2018.
“It’s been a ride,” said Caforio of her eight years on the board. She also noted the generosity, creativity and commitment of many organizations that support the district.
“We are so, so blessed to
have such an amazing place for our students to grow, explore, and learn,” said Caforio in her closing comments as a board member. “I have laughed in this seat. I have learned in this seat, and I have cried in this seat,” added Caforio, who was the board president during the COVID-19 pandemic. “As current board members know, and future board members will learn, you can never predict what will come your way while you serve.”
Caforio went on to thank the community members who have shown her extraordinary kindness during the last eight years.
“I am forever grateful that I had the opportunity to serve for the past eight years,” Caforio said. “It has truly been the honor of a lifetime. Thank you.”
Two new board members join Arvanitis in beginning four-year terms
After Collins and Caforio stepped away from their seats at the board table, Arvanitis joined Bresnahan and Slowinski to be sworn in to their fouryear terms on the board. They joined Kelly Asseff, Kelly Henry, Beth Hosler and Courtenae Trautmann on the board.
The new board proceeded to hold its re-organization. Arvanitis was nominated to remain as board president. There were no other nominations for that post, and the her nomination was approved unanimously. Henry is the board’s new vice president. She succeeds Hosler in that role. Asseff is the board’s new secretary. She succeeds Trautmann in that position.
Board approves Thiems Grant awards
The newly constituted board voted unanimously to
approve Foundation 205’s 2025 Thiems Grant awards. Those grants, in an amount not to exceed $90,000, advance educational opportunities for the district’s students.
Middle school promotions; York’s Class of 2025 commencement take place in May
The announcements near the end of the meeting noted that the district’s middle school promotion services will take place at York High School on Thursday, May 22. The service for Sandburg Middle School students will start at 4 p.m. The service for Bryan Middle School students will begin at 6 p.m., while the ceremony for Churchville Middle School students will start at 8 p.m.
York High School’s Class of 2025 will celebrate its commencement on Sunday, May 18. The commencement ceremony will begin at 1 p.m. The district’s last day of student attendance for the current 2024-25 school year is Friday, May 23. The first day of student attendance for the 2025-26 school year is Wednesday, Aug. 13.
Documentary about York’s marching band will premier on District 205’s YouTube channel on May 12
Another announcement related that a 60-minute documentary about York High School’s marching band, filmed in September 2024, will premier on the district’s YouTube channel on Monday, May 12. The documentary, “This Is How We March,” was produced by District 205.
The board’s next regular meeting will take place on May 20.
MICHELE ANDERSEN PHOTO Elmhurst Independent
Viewpoint
Slices of life
Something, a feeling, in the air
Picture this:
You are with a friend and they get a phone call. You do your best to ignore the conversation – even the one side you can hear. Your friend ends the phone call and without them saying a word, you know something is wrong. Or this:
You are with a group of friends. The air is happy and jovial. But then another couple joins the group and the atmosphere changes because something about their energy or their posture lets everyone know they are fighting—even though no harsh words have been said. No one is supposed to feel their angst.
Yet everyone does.
There is something in the air—intangible, yet palpable—that has changed in accordance with the couple’s discord, as it did with your friend after their phone conversation. It can’t be seen or even heard, but it is there. The air has changed and everyone in the room feels it. Knows it, without knowing it.
We sense things we don’t quite understand, but know to be true.
Negativity creates a palpable change in the air—as though the negative emotions are being thrown outward, pelting us with their power.
Except we all know that isn’t possible. Unless it is.
There are so many things we don’t see.
There are so many things we don’t see and don’t understand.
There are so many things we don’t see and don’t understand that impact us all the time.
And for the most part, this defies definition.
How can there be something that is invisible, without sound or anything perceptible to the senses that nonetheless is palpable to everyone in the room?
We’ve all felt it, in one way or another, at one time or another.
The air changes in response to negativity. We can’t feel it in a way that we can physically describe, but
By JILL PERTLER Columnist
we can feel it in ways that are nonetheless real. And if everyone in the room feels the same change in atmosphere, doesn’t that prove the legitimacy of its existence?
Negative energy emitted when there is a conflict is somehow perceptible. I don’t know how to explain it, but I know that it is. And in that, I’d like to take this conversation in another direction.
If negative emotions emit something that we can sense, logic leads us to the conclusion that positive emotions could have the same effect.
If we can sense negativity in the air, it’s only logical that we can also sense positivity. And here’s where things get really exciting: not only can we sense it, we can create it.
There’s some power right there. Power of the superhuman variety, in my humble opinion.
You can create positivity by being positive yourself. In return, you can feed off the positivity of others. It’s a hypothesis that’s both simple and profound.
Imagine if it could be true. Wouldn’t that be awesome? Wouldn’t it solve some of life’s problems—or at least make them easier to bear?
I figure there’s no harm in trying. We’ve got everything to gain and nothing to lose. (Well, except the negativity, and I don’t think any of us would mind losing that.)
If you could make someone’s day just a little bit better just by being positive, wouldn’t that be a habit worth cultivating?
I know I’m going to try Jill Pertler is an awardwinning syndicated columnist, published playwright and author. Don’t miss a slice; follow the Slices of Life page on Facebook.
Illinois is not safe from superbugs; here’s how we fight back
By John Conrad Researchers at the
University of Illinois Chicago are testing a new antibiotic that could revolutionize our fight against drugresistant bacteria. The breakthrough could make it 100 million times more difficult for infectious microbes to transform into killer superbugs. Yet this laboratory research may never translate into new medicines that save lives. Antimicrobial resistance gets little media attention, but the statistics around the issue are startling. Between now and 2050, antibiotic resistance is forecast to contribute to nearly 170 million global deaths. That’s almost 14 times the population of Illinois. Here in Illinois, drugresistant pathogens aren’t just on the doorstep; they’re in the house. Our state accounts for 15% of all U.S.
cases of a deadly fungal superbug that’s increasingly difficult to treat. In 2017, Illinois had just 11 cases of a deadly microbe known as C. auris. In 2022 alone, we had 276 cases.
Absent novel medicines, the crisis will only deepen.
According to the CDC, infections spiked for six of seven high-priority superbugs over the last several years. New data projects that superbugs could cost the global economy $1 trillion by 2030 if we don’t course-correct.
But a blockage in antibiotic development is keeping new treatments from reaching patients.
The cost to develop a new antibiotic routinely exceeds $1 billion, but annual sales often struggle to reach $100 million. Why? Because over the years, medical professionals have recognized that overuse of antibiotics contributes to resistance, so effective treatments should be used only when absolutely necessary.
This gap between development costs and limited revenues has created a graveyard of small biotech companies. Since 2013, the FDA has approved 10 antibiotics from small companies. Nearly all of those developers have faced financial ruin.
Unless we find a way to reverse these trends, we could enter an era of medicine without protection against deadly infections. Common medical conditions, like minor cuts or urinary tract infections, could become untreatable and life-threatening.
Routine surgeries, from C-sections to joint replacements, could become too risky to perform.
Preventing this outcome requires rethinking how we incentivize antibiotic development. One proposed solution, the PASTEUR Act, would establish a subscription-like model for antimicrobial medicines.
Under PASTEUR, the federal government would enter into financial contracts
with developers in exchange for access to newly developed antimicrobials. This would provide developers the chance to earn a predictable return on their investment. This policy change could ignite a wave of research and investment in a critical yet struggling sector.
For a state like Illinois, with its strong research institutions and growing biotech sector, an antibiotic development renaissance could translate into hundreds of jobs, increased investment, and a stronger economy.
Every moment we delay, more companies could abandon antibiotic development, and more lives will be lost to drugresistant infections.
The choice is stark: fix the market for antimicrobials, or face a future where common infections become deadly threats.
John Conrad is president and CEO of the Illinois Biotechnology Innovation Organization (iBIO).
Cast rehearsals and ticket sales are in full swing for GreenMan Theatre Troupe’s reading of “Miss Holmes Returns”—a murder mystery based on characters created by Sir Arthur Conan Doyle and written by Christopher M. Walsh. The staged reading will be performed on weekends from between May 9-18 at Elmhurst History Museum’s Education Center, 120 E. Park Ave. Friday and Saturday performances will begin at 7:30 p.m. Sunday shows will start at 2 p.m. Tickets are $15 and can be purchased at https://ticketpeak.co/GMTT, or at the door prior to each performance providing the show is not sold out. Pictured left to right are cast members Lauren Anders, Katie Soria and Kevin Hathaway.
FUN RUN FUN RUN FUN RUN
Our Story Our Story
The inaugural Dan Gibbons Twilight Trot, a 5K fun run, will take place May 31, 2025 at 6:30 pm. This event, a sister run to our beloved Turkey Trot, aims to address hunger and basic needs year-round, with a focus on the summer months.
“We recognize that hunger and basic needs don’t disappear after the holiday season,” says Dan Gibbons.
“We want to give a mid-year boost to these four vital Elmhurst nonprofit organizations”. (See below)
“We’re calling on the entire community to join us,” Gibbons said.
“Every step taken and every dollar raised will make a real difference in the lives of our neighbors in need.”
Race Day: Saturday, May 31, 2025
Start Time: 6:30 pm
Start Line: Arlington Avenue & South Street
Chicago House AC, a community soccer club, counts down to the season opening weekend May 17 & 18
The Chicago House Athletic Club men’s and women’s soccer teams kick off their home soccer season with the men’s team on May 17 at 7:30 p.m. and the women’s team the following day, May 18 at 3:00 p.m. at Langhorst Field on the campus of Elmhurst University.
“The Chicago House AC men’s team has enjoyed a strong pre-season in the lead up to the upcoming season home opener on May 17,” said Shannon Seymour, head coach of the Chicago House men’s team. The Chicago House men’s team competes in the Midwest Premier League Heartland Conference Division 1 against the likes of some very talented teams from Wisconsin and, Northern Illinois. When asked for a glimpse of what House fans can expect when they come to a House game, Seymour, the returning House Head Coach continued, “The guys continue to compete for roster spots and are committed to bringing a brand of soccer that will be anchored in sportsmanship, talented teamwork, and a highly competitive attitude. We will provide and create memorable and inclusive game day experiences for all our fans both on and off the field.”
The Chicago House soccer opening weekend continues on Sunday, May 18 at 3:00 p.m. when Chicago House AC Women take the field at Langhorst Field. Led by recently announced Head Coach JJ Ruane, the Chicago House Women will return to Elmhurst for the 2025 season. “It is an exciting time to be a fan of the Chicago House Women’ Soccer team,” said Ruane. “Our pre-season will continue for another week before we have to make some difficult decisions and name our season roster,” Ruane continued. “It is already a goal within the group that we build on the accomplishments of last season here at Langhorst.” The Chicago House Women’s team competes in the Women’s Premier Soccer League North Lakes Conference Lake Michigan Division. Throughout the season Chicago House Women’s soccer team will host visiting teams from Milwaukee and the Chicagoland area.
Season tickets packages, individual game tickets, and Chicago House merchandise are all now available via the Chicago House AC website at www.chicagohouseac.com. Chicago House home games at Langhorst Field offer affordable family entertainment that features fun pre-game and post-game activities for all ages.
Check back next week and every week through the season for Chicago House AC news, game recaps, and important Chicago House AC community events.
Worship
Directory
St. Timothy Evangelical Lutheran Church
547 N. Main St., Lombard, IL 60148 630-627-2435
Sunday Worship at 10:15 am
Lent and Easter Services at 7 p.m.
Sunday School & Bible Study 9 am
“The Crucial Hours”
Ladies Bible Fellowship Mondays at 6:30 pm
Second Lenten Service March 9, 2022
Wednesday Service at 7pm
Rev. David Ernest “Satan Has Asked to Sift All of You” Jerusalem Lutheran, Morton Grove Matthew 27:15-26
Adult Bible Study Wednesdays after Service Saturday, May 24, Game Night at 4 pm
Third Lenten Service March 16, 2022
Everyone is Welcome!
Rev. Paul Spaude “What to Remember When Your are St. Matthews, Niles Seized with Remorse” Matthew 27:3-4
All services are live streamed. Watch on our website or on Facebook. sainttimothy.org
Fourth Lenten Service March 23, 2022
Rev. Jonathan Bergemann “I Will Keep the Passover” Good Shepherd, Downers Grove Matthew 26:18
Fifth Lenten Service
Rev. Tom Nicholson Resurrection, Aurora
Sixth Lenten Service
Rev. Phil Schupmann “The Semblance of Legality” Resurrection, Aurora
Maundy Thursday Communion 7 p.m., April 14
Good Friday Tenebrae Easter Sunrise
Easter Breakfast 8 a.m., April 17 Easter Festival 10:15 a.m., April 17
Join us at the corner of Spring and Vallette 314 W. Vallette Street, Elmhurst, IL www.epiphanyelmhurst.org 630-832-8457
Worship with Us!
Saturdays 5:30pm Sundays 9:30am
All are Welcome!
Sunday services are live streamed on our website. Children’s Sunday School, Childcare and Adult Opportunities Available 470618
Weekend Masses: Saturday: 4 PM (Vigil) Sunday: 7:30, 9:30 & 11:30 AM and 6 PM
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
Daily Masses: Monday—Friday: 6:15 and 8:15 AM Saturday: 8:15 AM
Confessions: Saturday: 3-3:45PM
Confessions: Saturday: 3-3:45PM
Adoration: Parish Center Eucharist Chapel 24/7 779
-6700 www.visitationparish.org
Adoration: Parish Center Eucharist Chapel 24/7
Sport S
Knights earn their first win of the season
IC Catholic Prep’s girls soccer team earned its first victory of the season last week. The Knights claimed their first win when they beat Montini Catholic 3-0 in Lombard on April 24. IC Catholic Prep moved its season record to 1-8-1 with its win over the Broncos. Seniors Maura Grogan (No. 21 - above left) and Graziella Narcisi (No. 6 - above right) scored first-half goals for the Knights. Freshman Mia Leischner (No. 11 - below left) added a second-half goal. IC Catholic Prep junior goalkeeper Lillianna Costa is pictured (below right) while making a save in the second half. Costa also saved a Montini penalty kick during the second half. The Knights’ record fell to 1-9-1 with Saturday’s loss at Hinsdale South.
IC Catholic Prep track teams compete at Montini Wednesday Night Lights event
Timothy Christian boys track team second at Westmont
By Mike Miazga CORRESPONDENT
The IC Catholic Prep girls track team took fourth at the recent Wednesday Night Lights invitational hosted by Montini in Lombard. The Knights finished with 46.5 points. Freshman Katie Knable was 12th in the 100 with a time of 15.52. Freshman Hayden Calcagno was 10th in the 200 with a time of 31.51 and took second in the 800 with a time of 2:43.51. Grace Gildea was fourth in the 1,600 with a time of 5:35.23, while Gabby Graham was 10th in the 1,600 with a time of 6:42.81. Freshman Brooke Schmidt was third in the 100 hurdles with a time of 19.89. ICCP’s 400 relay was third with Lizzie Cook, Chloe Brandt, Kathryn Anderson and Kiely Kemph running 56.01. The Knights’ 800 relay took seventh with a time of 2:12.46 with Molly Lucas, Dori Manchester, Agata Kudlacz and Janny Techamontreekul running in that event. ICCP’s 1,600 realy team was second in 4:29.51 with Cook, Brandt, Anderson and Kemph running.
Junior Gabby Velecela took seventh in the shot put with a throw of 24-8 1/4. She was 11th in the discus with a mark of 58-8. Anderson was second in the high jump at 4-6, while Techamontreekul and Schmidt tied for third at
4-2. Schmidt was 10th in the long jump at 11-11 and Lucas was eighth in the triple jump with a mark of 23-2 1/2.
IC Catholic Prep boys track
The IC Catholic Prep boys track team took sixth at the recent Montini-hosted Wednesday Night Lights invitational. The Knights finished with 33 team points. Senior Evan Smith won both the 200 and 400 titles. Smith ran 22.47 in the 200 and 50.23 in the 400 to bring home first-place medals.
Senior Tony Dewald was sixth in the 200 at 24.17 and took fifth in the 400 at 54.21. Freshman Gavin Sullivan was eighth in the 800 with a time of 2:27.37. Senior Noah Rivenburg was second in the shot put at 39-3 1/4, while freshman Gabe Lisowiec was 10th in the shot at 33-6 3/4. Lisowiec was fifth in the discus at 109-7, while Rivenburg was seventh at 99-3.
ICCP’s 400 relay team was sixth at 50.60 with Alex Mitchell, Frankie Gonzalez, Ricky Ponce and Jacob Riera. The Knights won the 800 mixed relay with a time of 1:43.44 with Cook, Dewald, Kemph and Smith running 1:43.44.
Timothy Christian boys track
The Timothy Christian boys track team took second at the recent Westmont invitation-
al. The Trojans finished with 118 points. Wheaton Academy won the meet with 129 points, while Ridgewood was three points behind Timothy in third place. “We did very well at Westmont,” Timothy coach John Vander Kamp said. Sophomore Nate Bemister has run 11:02.33 in the 3,200, while junior Grant Scott hit 5-8 in the high jump. Sophomore Joe Tameling has a mark of 127-4 in the discus, while senior Ryan McKenzie has run 2:06.57 in the 800 and 4:57.15 in the 1,600. Senior Jonathan Kelsey has run 11.71 in the 100, 23.54 in the 200 and 52.69 in the 400. Chandler Brady has a mark of 21-7 1/2 in the long jump and 40-11 in the triple jump. He has also run 15.78 in the 110 high hurdles and 42.15 in the 300 intermediate hurdles.
Vander Kamp also has been pleased with the progress senior Jacob Lanenga has made in the discus (now throwing over 120 feet), as well as Vivek Alex, a junior, in the triple jump (39-plus feet). Sophomore Peyton Scholma also has been making strides, Vander Kamp noted, in the long jump (21-plus feet). “Our team is improving overall in their conditioning and skill development,” Vander Kamp said. “I really enjoy seeing them learn how to concentrate and focus in their events.”
Timothy Christian boys tennis team making strides
Freshman Tseng off to solid start at No. 1 singles
By Mike Miazga CORRESPONDENT
The Timothy Christian boys tennis team has logged plenty of success stories through the first part of the season. The Trojans were 5-5-1 overall and 1-0 in Chicagoland Christian Conference action through late last week. Timothy also recently competed in the Hinsdale South quad where it had several close matches against Lemont, Hinsdale South and Glenbard South, coach Rick McLean noted.
Individually, freshman Hudson Tseng was 4-2 at No. 1 singles through late last week. McLean pointed out Tseng has played six singles players who qualified for last year’s
IHSA state singles tournament.
“Hudson has played excellent,” McLean said. “He competes against the opponents’ best singles players.”
The doubles team of Elliot Tandy and Timo Kacian has a 4-2 mark at No. 1 doubles.
“Elliot and Timo have a couple nice wins over last year’s state-qualifying teams,” McLean noted. “Elliot and Timo usually play doubles, but with injuries they have also played singles for the team.” Tandy and Kacian each are 5-0 in singles action thus far. Tong Yang, Phillip Wojciuk, Luke Tuchscherer, freshman Merritt Stolzenbach and freshman Evan Styczen also have contributed key wins in the doubles divi-
sion, McLean added.
“With three weeks of tennis before our conference tournament, we are looking to continue our growth and competitiveness against strong competition,” McLean said. “Our firstyear player and sophomores that are new to the team have made improvements and will be key to the team’s success along with our top singles and doubles team staying healthy.” McLean noted the Trojans had matches with Morton, Fenwick and Nazareth Academy postponed due to the weather. “The recent rain and weather has caused matches to be rescheduled,” he said. “The upcoming three weeks will see a busy weekly tennis schedule.”
CHRIS FOX PHOTOS Elmhurst Independent
York boys water polo team turning up the heat
No. 2-ranked Dukes 15-4 and sitting on top of West Suburban Conference
By Mike Miazga CORRESPONDENT
The superlatives are piling up for the York boys water polo team. Through late last week, coach Brian Drumm’s squad was 15-4 overall and perfect in the West Suburban Conference at 4-0.
York recently took second at the Best of the West tournament hosted by Naperville Central and Naperville North. Of note, York downed Naperville North 8-7 in the semifinals, avenging two earlier losses to the Huskies. “It was
a huge boost for our team confidence because we’ve beaten all the top teams in Illinois at least once,” Drumm said.
York lost to New Trier 8-4 in the Best of the West championship game, “but it was a competitive contest,” Drumm noted. The Dukes also won the Lyons Township tournament for the second time in three years, defeating Neuqua Valley, Oak Park-River Forest, Palatine and Lyons Township there. Through late last week, the Dukes were ranked second in the state behind
Will play volleyball for Division II school
By Mike Miazga
CORRESPONDENT
Recent IC Catholic Prep graduate Bella Leslie wanted to head east for college.
York girls water polo
By Mike Miazga
CORRESPONDENT
When York girls water polo coach Mark Giuliani recently mentioned he felt his team was “legit,” he wasn’t kidding. The Dukes proved their coach correct as evidenced by a 5-4 win over a Naperville North team that came into the game ranked No. 1 in the state
only New Trier. Drumm noted Ethan Allen and Tim Jensen are able to take over games offensively, “which they have both done recently,” he said. Jensen is the team’s leader in steals and assists. “Tim has turned into one of the top all-around players in the state, if not the top player,” Drumm said.
working on it in almost every practice. Naperville North has some outstanding shooters, and in the home stretch of that game, sophomore Ian Morgan and senior CJ Prodoehl each came up with huge blocks.”
IC Catholic Prep graduate Leslie headed to Le Moyne
Drumm likes the progress the team has made when it comes to blocking shots. “We have gotten better at it,” he said. “We’ve put an emphasis on shot-blocking this year,
I feel like I would be so bored without it because it has been such a big part of my life.”
Leslie said she has plenty of memories from IC Catholic Prep’s coach Nancy Kerrigan’s program.
Drumm added senior goalie Aaron Rivera also had some great blocks during the entirety of the Best of the West tournament, including a 12-block performance in the Naperville North win. Drumm explained sophomore Matthew Glod was slotted into the center defender role against Naperville
North, “against probably the top center in Illinois,” he said. “Matthew was outstanding. He is incredibly strong, so he was able to match up and not get overpowered as most defenders do against this player.”
Her landing spot ended up being at NCAA Division II Le Moyne College where the former Knights volleyball and soccer standout will continue her volleyball career at the Syracuse, New York school as a libero.
according to one online statistical service.
In the title win against Lyons Township at the LT tournament, Jensen had seven goals. “Tim Jensen had an incredible tournament,” Drumm said. Also helping out offensively throughout the season have been Teddy Kamenica and Henry Nelson.
team defeats state No.
1
“Teddy and Henry have been steady offensive presences for us, connecting on big shots all season,” Drumm said. Drumm said his squad is looking forward to finishing the season strong in May. “We know we are a top-tier team in this state, and although we respect our competition, we know we can beat everyone because we’ve now done that,” he said. “As we finish up April, it’s about focusing in on May for sectionals and hopefully state where we will be looking to peak as a team.”
Naperville
North Dukes off to red-hot 16-3 start; Sophomore Jensen leading the way with 71 goals
York, ranked third in the state last week, was 16-3 overall and 4-1 in West Suburban Conference play through late last week. York also has key wins against Naperville Central, Fenwick and New Trier. York lost to New Trier 4-3 in the first week of the season and then returned the favor with a 15-5 win the following weekend.
“All of the schools I was looking at were on the East Coast,” Leslie told the Independent last week. “I visited Le Moyne and really liked it. It reminded me of high school because it was a small school, and in a smaller school you will know a lot more faces than if I would have gone to a bigger school. The campus there is really pretty. It sits on a big hill and the scenery around it is great. Everything is pretty close together. They have very nice facilities. The volleyball program has good workout facilities and a nice locker room. I liked how modern it was.”
“I loved playing there,” she said. “I probably enjoyed school volleyball more than club because I love my team and the coaching staff was very supportive on and off the court. It made it a really good environment to be in. Coach (Kerrigan) was great. I have known her for a while. When I was little, I did all the little kids camps, and her daughter was in my brother’s grade at IC.”
York also downed Libertyville and recorded a pair of closely contested wins against Chicago Jones College Prep, one coming in the championship game of the York Invite. Other teams in the York tournament included Fenwick,
Leslie said she will miss plenty about IC Catholic Prep. “I will miss how close knit of a community it was,” she said. “I knew everybody at the school. It will be weird going on campus and not knowing all the faces. I’ll miss those close connections with the coaches and teachers. It will be weird for the first year or so.”
Sandburg, New Trier and Mother McAuley.
“ I’m really excited to be able to play volleyball in college. It gives me something to do. I feel like I would be so bored without it because it has been such a big part of my life.”
– Bella Leslie
Sophomore Emily Jensen is York’s leading goal-scorer with 71 goals and 18 assists while classmate Kate McCarthy has 47 goals and 21 assists. Giuliani also said senior leadership from captains Haylie Morgan, Natalie Tuerk and Kira Caputo has been key.
Morgan has 37 goals and 32 assists, while Tuerk has 21 goals and 28 assists and Caputo has made 117 saves and has 18 assists in goal.
it,” he said. “My girls were the ‘Founding Fathers’ and let’s just say they committed to the bit.”
York boys tennis team off to 9-2 start
By Mike Miazga CORRESPONDENT
Things are looking up for the York boys tennis team.
New coach Brad Sullivan’s squad was 9-2 overall in duals and 2-1 in West Suburban Conference Silver Division action through late last week.
Of note, the Dukes took third at the recent Hersey invitational. York holds key wins over Hersey (4-3), Lyons Township (5-2 in a conference match) and Glenbrook
Leslie plans on studying nursing at Le Moyne. “They have a good nursing program,” she said. “As far as what kind of a nurse I want to be, I’m not quite sure yet.”
South (4-3). York’s only two dual losses thus far came to WSC Silver entrant Hinsdale Central (7-0, but two of the matches against the perennial state power went to third-set tiebreaks) and Edwardsville (6-1).
Leslie played volleyball and girls soccer at IC Catholic Prep all four years. She was a center-midfielder on the Knights soccer team.
Leslie’s volleyball journey started in the fifth grade, the first year she could play the sport at IC Grade School. She’s been playing club volleyball since seventh grade, most recently with the Chicago Elite group that practices out of Scores in Willow Springs and Montini High School in Lombard.
Liam Ponton was off to a 6-1 start at No. 3 singles for York, while the No. 3 doubles pairing of Drew Greene and Brendan Carroll had a 5-1 mark through late last week. Nate Yu was 4-2 at No. 1 sin-
“I’m really excited to be able to play volleyball in college,” she said. “It gives me something to do.
• Stopka
gles, while Brennan Maxeiner was 5-2 at No. 2 singles. Yu and Maxeiner were 2-0 at No. 1 doubles. “The team is playing great tennis,” Sullivan said.
Sullivan noted of the 15 matches thus far that have gone to a third-set tiebreaker, York is 11-4 in the deciding tiebreakers.
Leslie said pandemic life hasn’t been overly exciting, though her club volleyball team has started practicing again. “We have been practicing two or three times a week,” she said. “We are going to be starting tournaments again. Before that I haven’t been doing anything because senior soccer season and the club volleyball season were cancelled. We were supposed to go to a few club volleyball qualifiers in Grand Rapids and Louisville. This summer, we have some tournaments planned over the next few weekends. They are little tournaments with all of the local clubs. Nothing large and really local. Other than that, I have been trying to work out a lot and stay in shape. I’ve been running a lot, so I got into that. I try and run every day.”
Dukes third at Hersey invitational
been cancelled due to the pandemic. “I will probably leave Aug. 10-11 because it’s a far drive,” she said. “We had Zoom call with the team recently and they said they should have an answer about our season in the next 7-10 days. They talked about three scenarios and what could happen like if we start the season and someone gets sick and we have to stop and go. That’s one of the reasons why they are looking at moving the season to the spring. Right now the plan is to have a season, but we won’t know until the next 7-10 days.”
logged the same outcome against Glenbrook South. “It is a strong testament to the players and their ability to play well at the biggest moments in each match,” Sullivan said.
Leslie said she is scheduled to report to Le Moyne in the Aug. 1215 timeframe, but noted preseason volleyball activities already have
In fact, York won three of four tiebreakers against a Hersey team that took second in the state last year and
(Continued from page 18)
But if all systems are a go, Leslie can’t wait to take her skills as a libero to the next level with the Dolphins. “I feel like being a libero you have to be really quick and that is typically what I am good at. I have really good reaction time,” she said. “I like diving on the floor and saving balls. It’s a really good feeling when you make a save. The position fits my personality, too. You have to be the loudest one on the court. I have a loud personality. You have to be pretty loud if you want to be a libero. I think I match that description.”
York has invitationals scheduled at Prospect and HD Jacobs School in Algonquin, plus a big upcoming West Suburban Silver matchup against Oak Park-River Forest also is on the horizon, Sullivan noted.
“My team is vibing,” Giuliani said. “They are working together well, and their water polo IQ gets higher every day. Defensively, we communicate and switch seamlessly. Offensively, each player knows their role and we are really getting into a good rhythm. Also, this is one of the best groups of kids I’ve had in my 13 years as head coach. They are responsible, mature and have great personalities.”
Giuliani was impressed with his group during the York Invite tournament. He noted his players wanted to hold a costume contest with opposing teams. “The other teams seemed to really enjoy
York has key matches this week against Hersey and Stevenson. “Stevenson is one of the top teams in the state and who we lost to in the state semifinal game two years ago (York beat Hersey that year in the third-place game at state),” Giuliani said. “We are poised to make a similar run this year.”
York hosts a sectional this year (May 14-17). The winner of the York sectional heads to the eight-team state finals at Stevenson High School in Lincolnshire. The York sectional includes Morton, Chicago Northside, Chicago Taft, Elk Grove, Leyden, Fenwick, Oak Park-River Forest and the St. Charles co-op team.
They lost to West Chicago on I think an own goal in the last five minutes. That was against the state champs in the sectional finals. That’s a hell of a season if you ask me.”
huge rah-rah person. I’m a little bit more of an individual players’ coach. I will pull kids to the side at practice and games and teach them.”
York Drama presents its spring musical this week
Stopka will teach Spanish at York. He taught Spanish and one math class at St. Pat’s. “My philosophy is I am more of a players’ coach,” he said.
“I have been a big Liverpool soccer
Stopka noted York has been doing conditioning drills and said the plan as of earlier last week was to start summer camp pending District 205 approval. “I have probably been able to meet 60 to 70 percent of the players so far,” he said. “If it does get approved that would be the start of our contact days with four days a week for three weeks straight. And even though the IHSA waived the blackout dates before the school year, we won’t take advantage of that. I’m pretty sure families have plans to do things before school starts. I’m the new guy and I’m not going to say you can’t go with your family. Go do it and enjoy it. This is a crazy and goofy time. You have to be accessi-
ble and transparent and communicate with everybody.”
York High School’s drama department will present its spring musical—“Pippin”—this week in the school’s newly renovated Baker Auditorium. The performances of tonight, Thursday, May 1, Friday, May 2, and Saturday, May 3, will begin at 7:30 p.m. The performance of Sunday, May 4, will start at 2 p.m. “For many years, York Drama has waited for the perfect occasion and reason to produce this musical, and we are so glad the time has finally come to bring ‘Pippin’ to Elmhurst,” said director Rebecca Marianetti. “This show is one of the most popular musicals in the musical theatre canon; it is truly one of Stephen Schwartz’s greatest pieces of work, including soaring melodies and phenomenal dance. Pippin asks us all to look within ourselves and find what fulfills us. We often overlook the simplest of joys.” Tickets are $15 and available at www.yorkdrama.org. “Everyone should come see ‘Pippin’ because everyone in the cast, crew, and amazing directors have put so much time and effort into perfecting every detail in the show while still ensuring the cast had our voices heard throughout the process,” said Dayne Crowe (pictured), dance corps and ensemble member. “I know I have grown tremendously in the process, and we are all so excited to share our story with the community.”
As far as the future, Stopka wants York competing at a high level on a consistent basis. “The short-term goal is to restock and build up the team,” he said. “A large portion of last year’s team was seniors, especially the starting 11. We have to make sure the now juniors are up to the speed of the varsity level and are ready to contribute. We want to keep that pipeline going with the younger groups of players. We want to make sure we are not only competitive, but that we are competing for regionals, sectionals and supersectionals. It starts for me with this junior class that is coming in. We want them ready to go and setting the standard for these other classes that come in so they can also contribute right off the bat.”
York Girls Water Polo Team
The York girls water polo team recently defeated Naperville North 5-4 and sported a 16-3 overall mark through late last week. Naperville North came into the game ranked No. 1 in the state. Sophomore Emily Jensen leads the Dukes with 71 goals, while classmate Kate McCarthy has 47 goals.
Community calendar
Recurring on Sundays
Elmhurst Model Railroad
Club Sunday open house
From 1-4 p.m. every Sunday at the Elmhurst Model Railroad Club, 111 E. First St., and visit the club’s three operating model railroad layouts. For more information, call 630-530-9584 or email: emrrc@comcast.net.
Saturday, May 3
An evening of Gershwin, Perkinson and Mussorgsky with the Elmhurst Symphony Orchestra. From 7-9 p.m. presented by the Elmhurst Symphony Orchestra, the orchestra will cap off its 2024/2025 season with a performance at Elmhurst Christian Reformed Church. This not-to-be-missed concert, conducted by Music Director Stephen Alltop, will feature a diverse program of vibrant, dynamic works that highlight a blend of American, African American, and Russian influences. The evening will begin with a pre-concert talk at 5:45 p.m. to offer insight into the music and enhance
the concert experience for attendees. Tickets are $35-$45 for general admission, $12 for students, senior discounts. For tickets, first-time visitor guides, FAQs and further concert details, visit www.ElmhurstSymphony.org.
Saturday, May 3 and Sunday, May 4
Art in Wilder Park. Free and open to the public from 10 a.m.-5 p.m., this highly anticipated event kicks off the Spring festival season in the western suburbs each year. The free two-day event draws thousands of visitors with over 130 booths of artists selling one-of-a-kind jewelry, paintings, sculptures, ceramics, prints, fiber arts, and delicious treats from local food vendors. Booths by over 80 Midwest artists, 10 nonprofits, 10 food vendors, 10 Kids Court participants, and 20 other local business partners will be featured. For more information, visit: https://elmhurstartmuseum.org/events/ art%20in%20wilder%20 park%202025.
Thursday, May 8
An intimate evening with Radius featuring Michael St. Peter. From 7-8:30 p.m. presented by the Elmhurst Centre for the Performing Arts, 100 Haven Road, Radius, dubbed the #1 a cappella group in the U.S. in 2023, will be performing in Elmhurst for one night only. Michael St. Peter, an Elmhurst native began his career with the Chicago Opera Theatre and Lyric Opera of Chicago, He went on to perform with the Hawai’i Symphony Orchestra and Haymarket Opera Company. Parking is available at the Schiller Street parking deck, the police station surface lot, and at 105 S. York St. For more information, visit: www. ecpa-elmhurst.org
Saturday, May 10
71st annual Pancake Breakfast and Mother’s Day plant sale. From 7-11 a.m. at the Elmhurst American Legion THB Post 187, 310 W. Butterfield, join the Kiwanis Club of Elmhurst at its free pancake breakfast and Mother’s Day
Plant Sale. Characters such as Mickey Mouse, Super Hero’s and more will be onsite from 9-10:30 a.m. for complimentary photos. Characters generously provided by Costumers with a Cause. Mother’s Day plants will also be sold at this event, along with raffles. While the pancake breakfast is free, donations are always welcomed. Proceeds benefit Special Olympics Volleyball Tournament, Elmhurst Music Boosters, York High School Key Club Scholarships, YMCA Scholarships and more. For more information, visit: https://exploreelmhurst. com.
“Rising Stars of Stanger” Stanger Young Artist Competition Concert. Presented by the Elmhurst Symphony Orchestra from 2-4 p.m., the orchestra proudly announces its Stanger Young Artist Competition Concert, titled “Rising Stars of Stanger,” at Elmhurst Christian Reformed Church. This family-friendly event, suitable for ages 8 and up, promises an afternoon of
extraordinary musical talent and excitement. Three groups of young artists will take the stage, each vying for the top prize in this prestigious competition. Judges, seated among the audience, will evaluate the performances and announce the winner live from the stage, adding a thrilling conclusion to the event. Tickets are $12 for adults and $10 for children. For more information, visit: https://elmhurstsymphony.org/ rising-stars-of-stanger-2025.
GreenMan Theatre presents Miss Holmes Returns by Christopher M. Walsh. Presented by GreenMan Theatre Troupe on May 10, May 11, May 16, May 17 and May 18 at First United Methodist Church, 232 S. York, revisit the world of Miss Sherlock Holmes the Troupe presents Miss Holmes Returns as a staged reading. It will look a little different from our normal productions but will still delight you with some characters you met last fall and introduce you to new ones as we tell you this story. All tickets are $15.
For more information, visit: www.greenmantheatre.org.
Thursday, May 15
UCCA Taste of the Town. From 6-10 p.m. United Community Concerns Association (UCCA) will hold the eighth annual Taste of the Town: Dining for a Cause, an Elmhurst food and drink experience, on May 15 at Wilder Mansion. The evening will showcase food, wine, and beer tastings from 15 Elmhurst businesses. Proceeds from the event will benefit UCCA, an all-volunteer, not-for-profit organization that fights hunger by providing food, referrals, and services to Elmhurst District 205’s most financially disadvantaged children and their families. Tickets are $75 in advance and $80 after May 8 or at the door and can be purchased online at ucca-elmhurst.org or by mail at UCCA, Box 324, Elmhurst, IL 60126. Visit ucca-elmhurst.org for more details.
Elmhurst Art Museum
Info: 630-834-0202 or visit elmhurstartmuseum.org.
Boater safety class offered May 3 at St. James Farm
Complete course and earn boating safety certificate
Area residents can learn about boating safety and earn a state boating safety certificate at a one-day “Boater Education Course” on Saturday, May 3, from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Track referendum project progress at Elmhurst Park District website
Since the passage of the Elmhurst Park District referendum in November 2024, staff has focused on design development and planning for the approved referendum projects.
These projects include a new Wagner Community Center, a community bandshell with permanent heated restroom in Wilder Park, permanent heated restrooms in Eldridge and Crestview Park and along the Prairie Path and the converting of a grass field to artificial turf at Berens Park.
Community engagement and education has been a foundational piece of the
park district’s referendum process. Continuing this approach, Elmhurst residents are invited to keep up-to-date on referendum project process by visiting epd.org/referendum.
The webpage will serve as a single reliable destination for visitors to track progress and view timelines for each of the projects. The webpage also includes a map, project landing pages, and links to referendum FAQS and news items.
The park district encourages the community to check out the page and stay informed on the future of Elmhurst parks; www.epd.org.
FENCINGFENCING
tration and titling, and Illinois boating laws. It is open to participants ages 11 and up. Registration is required and can be completed online or by calling 630-933-7248.
Under Illinois law, anyone born on or after Jan. 1, 1998, must have a valid boating safety certificate to operate a motorized vessel with more than 10 horsepower on Illinois waters. Children under
age 10 are not permitted to operate motorized vessels, including personal watercraft. Ages 10 to 11 may operate such vessels only if they are accompanied by and under the direct control of a parent, guardian, or an adult designated by the parent or guardian. Boaters ages 12 to 17 may operate a motorized vessel over 10 horsepower if they have completed a boating safety
course and carry a valid boating safety certificate or if they are accompanied by a qualified adult.
Any adult born on or after Jan. 1, 1998, supervising youth must also have a valid boating safety certificate.
“Whether you’re a firsttime boat owner or just need a refresher, I encourage everyone to take a boater safety class, regardless of age,” said
Forest Preserve District of DuPage County Police Sergeant Rick Splittgerber, who will teach the course. “The class is a great way to stay safe on the water and help prevent injuries and property damage.”
For more information about Illinois’ boating safety requirements, visit dnr.illinois. gov/safety/boatingsafety. html.
Groundbreaking at Salt Creek Primary School
Third Annual Festival of Lights
to be held May 6 at Elmhurst
University
In the tradition of Elmhurst University’s popular Festival of Lessons and Carols, the Festival of Lights welcomes the campus and community for an interfaith candlelight gathering that will feature music, song and text from different faith traditions.
“We are the Light of the World: The Third Annual Festival of Lights” will begin at 4:30 p.m. on Tuesday, May 6, in Hammerschmidt Memorial Chapel, 190 S. Prospect Ave. Public lectures and other diverse cultural programming at Elmhurst University support community engagement and lifelong learning, and prepare students to thrive as adaptive leaders. Admission is free and all are welcome. For more information, email the Office of the Chaplain at hscottm@elmhurst.edu.
Glowiak Hilton announces funding to support school libraries
State Sen. Suzy Glowiak Hilton announced seven local school districts will receive state grants to purchase books, technology and other materials.
“Libraries unlock a world of creativity and new ideas,” said Glowiak Hilton (D-Western Springs). “This funding will help schools expand their collections with the latest books and technology, giving students the resources they need to learn and thrive.”
More than $1.3 million was awarded to 2,484 Illinois public school libraries through the Secretary of State’s School District Library Grant Program. Resources and services supported through the grants include library books, e-books, audiobooks, periodicals, multilingual materials, technology and programs.
The following school districts serving students in Glowiak Hilton’s district received a total of $17,400:
• Hinsdale Community Consolidated School District 181: $2,631
• Elmhurst Community Unit School District 205: $7,063
• Marquardt School District
15: $1,988
• Salt Creek School District
48: $850
• School District 45, DuPage County: $2,607
• Maercker School District
60: $1,166
• Westmont Community Unit School District 201: $1,094
The grants, awarded once each fiscal year, will support school library services for over 1 million K-12 students across the state.
NOTICE
OF PUBLIC MEETING
On Tuesday, May 13, 2025 at 1:00 pm, a meeting conducted by Elmhurst Community Unit School District 205 will take place via Zoom. The purpose of the meeting will be to discuss the District’s plans for identifying and providing special education services to students with disabilities who attend private schools and home schools within the district for the 2025-2026 school year. If you are a parent of a home-schooled student who has been or may be identified with a disability and you reside within the boundaries of Elmhurst Community Unit School District 205, you are encouraged to attend.
If you have further questions pertaining to this meeting, please contact Dr. Kevin Rubenstein, Assistant Superintendent of Student Services at 630-834-4530 or via email at krubenstein@elmhurst205. org.
(Published in The Elmhurst Independent May 1, 2025) 470859
NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING ZONING AND PLANNING COMMISSION/ZONING BOARD OF APPEALS CASE NUMBER 25 ZBA 06
Request for Variations
Notice is hereby given that the Elmhurst Zoning and Planning Commission/Zoning Board of Appeals will hold a public hearing on Tuesday, May 20, 2025 at 7:00 p.m., in the Elmhurst City Hall, 209 N. York Street, Elmhurst, Illinois. The purpose of this hearing is to consider a request by David Mason and Victoria Hansen, owners, for Setback Variations at the property commonly known as 364 S. Hawthorne Avenue, Elmhurst, Illinois for the purpose of constructing additions to the existing home.
Following is a legal description of the subject property:
PARCEL 1: LOT 5 IN BLOCK 1 IN ELMHURST HIGH SCHOOL SUBDIVISION BEING A SUBDIVISION IN THE NORTHEAST QUARTER OF THE NORTHWEST QUARTER OF SECTION 11, TOWNSHIP 39 NORTH, RANGE 11, EAST OF THIRD PRINCIPAL MERIDIAN, LYING SOUTHWESTERLY OF THE RIGHT OF WAY OF THE ILLINOIS CENTRAL RAILROAD, EXCEPT THAT PART LYING NORTH OF THE CENTER OF ST. CHARLES ROAD, ACCORDING TO THE PLAT THEREOF RECORDED JANUARY 7, 1927 AS DOCUMENT 227603, IN DUPAGE COUNTY, ILLINOIS.
PARCEL 2: THE NORTH HALF OF THAT CERTAIN PUBLIC ALLEY LOCATED SOUTH OF ST. CHARLES ROAD AND BETWEEN BERKLEY AVENUE AND HAWTHORNE AVENUE, SOUTH OF AND ABUTTING LOT 5 IN BLOCK 1 OF ELMHURST HIGH SCHOOL SUBDIVISION, A SUBDIVISION IN THE NORTHWEST QUARTER OF SECTION 11, TOWNSHIP 39 NORTH, RANGE 11, EAST OF THE THIRD PRINCIPAL MERIDIAN, LYING SOUTHWESTERLY OF THE RIGHT OF WAY OF THE ILLINOIS CENTRAL RAILROAD, EXCEPT THAT PART LY-
LEGAL NOTICES
ING NORTH TO THE CENTER OF ST. CHARLES ROAD, HAVING DIMENSIONS OF 8 FEET X 70.30 FEET, ACCORDING TO THE PLAT THEREOF RECORDED JANUARY 7, 1927 AS DOCUMENT 227603, IN DUPAGE COUNTY, ILLINOIS.
PIN: 06-11-108-034
The common street address is 364 S. Hawthorne Avenue, Elmhurst, Illinois. The subject property is located within the R2 Single-Family Residence District.
If you have any questions regarding this case, please contact the Community Development Department at 630-530-3121.
Any person who has a disability requiring a reasonable accommodation to participate in this meeting, should contact Emily Palm, ADA Compliance Officer, Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., City of Elmhurst, 209 N. York Street, Elmhurst, IL 60126, call 630-530-3770 or email HR@elmhurst.org within a reasonable time before the meeting. Please provide as much notice as possible for sign language interpreting requests.
Eileen Franz, City Planner (Published in The Elmhurst Independent May 1, 2025) 471185
NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING ZONING AND PLANNING COMMISSION/ZONING BOARD OF APPEALS CASE NUMBER 25 ZBA 07
Request for Variations
Notice is hereby given that the Elmhurst Zoning and Planning Commission/Zoning Board of Appeals will hold a public hearing on Tuesday, May 20, 2025 at 7:00 p.m., in the Elmhurst City Hall, 209 N. York Street, Elmhurst, Illinois. The purpose of this hearing is to consider a request by Jack Dempsey, Real Estate Analyst, on behalf of North & York, LLC., property owner, for Parking Variations at the property commonly known as 295-305 N. York Street, Elmhurst, Illinois for the purpose of adding a new restaurant tenant to the existing commercial center.
Following is a legal description of the subject property: PARCEL 1: LOT 1 (EXCEPT THAT PORTION OF SAID LOT 1 CONVEYED TO THE CITY OF ELMHURST BY DOCUMENT R66-35348), LOT 2 (EXCEPT THE WEST 7 FEET THEREOF), AND LOT 3 (EXCEPT THAT PART OF SAID LOTS 1, 2 AND 3 CONVEYED BY DEED R96041951), AND THAT PART OF LOT 8 DESCRIBED AS COMMENCING AT THE SOUTHWEST CORNER OF SAID LOT 8, THENCE NORTHERLY ALONG THE WEST LINE OF SAID LOT 8, 2.00 FEET FOR A POINT OF BEGINNING, THENCE CONTINUING NORTHERLY ALONG SAID WEST LINE 32.00 FEET, THENCE SOUTHEASTERLY 38.09 FEET TO A POINT WHICH IS 2.00 FEET NORTH OF SAID SOUTH LINE AND 22.00 FEET EASTERLY OF THE AFORESAID POINT OF BEGINNING, AS MEASURED ALONG A LINE 2.00 FEET NORTH OF SAID SOUTH LINE, THENCE WESTERLY ALONG A LINE 2.00 FEET NORTHERLY OF SAID SOUTH LINE, 22.00 FEET TO THE POINT
OF BEGINNING, TOGETHER WITH THE PUBLIC ALLEY LOCATED EASTERLY OF LOTS 1, 2 AND 3 AND WESTERLY OF SAID LOT 8, IN THE RESUBDIVISION OF LOTS 1, 2, 23, 24, AND THE SOUTH 115 FEET OF LOTS 25 AND 26 OF ROBERTSON’S SECOND ADDITION TO ELMHURST, BEING A SUBDIVISION OF SECTION 35 AND 36, TOWNSHIP 40 NORTH, RANGE 11 EAST OF THE THIRD PRINCIPAL MERIDIAN, ACCORDING TO THE PLAT OF SAID RESUBDIVISION RECORDED APRIL 23, 1913 AS DOCUMENT 111786, IN DUPAGE COUNTY, ILLINOIS.
PARCEL 2:
LOT 4 (EXCEPT THE WEST 2.0 FEET AS MEASURED PERPENDICULAR TO THE WEST LINE THEREOF), IN THE RESUBDIVISION OF LOTS 1, 2, 23, 24, AND THE SOUTH 115 FEET OF LOTS 25 AND 26 OF ROBERTSON’S SECOND ADDITION TO ELMHURST, BEING A SUBDIVISION OF SECTION 35 AND 36, TOWNSHIP 40 NORTH, RANGE 11 EAST OF THE THIRD PRINCIPAL MERIDIAN, ACCORDING TO THE PLAT OF SAID
RESUBDIVISION RECORDED APRIL 23, 1913 AS DOCUMENT 111786, IN DUPAGE COUNTY, ILLINOIS.
PARCEL 3: LOT 5 (EXCEPT THE WEST 2.00 FEET AS MEASURED PERPENDICULAR TO THE WEST LINE THEREOF OF SAID LOT 5 TAKEN FOR ROAD PURPOSES IN CASE 96ED-08) OF THE RESUBDIVISION OF LOTS 1, 2, 23, 24, AND THE SOUTH 115 FEET OF LOTS 25 AND 26 OF ROBERTON’S SECOND ADDITION TO ELMHURST, A SUBDIVISION OF PART SECTION OF SECTIONS 35 AND 36, TOWNSHIP 40 NORTH, RANGE 11 EAST OF THE THIRD PRINCIPAL MERIDIAN, IN DUPAGE COUNTY, ILLINOIS.
PARCEL 4: THE 10 FOOT VACATED PUBLIC ALLEY LYING EASTERLY OF SAID LOTS 1 THROUGH 3 INCLUSIVE, OF A RESUBDIVISION OF LOTS 1, 2, 23, 24, AND THE SOUTH 115 FEET OF LOTS 25 AND 26 OF ROBERTSON’S SECOND ADDITION TO ELMHURST, A SUBDIVISION OF PART SECTIONS 35 AND 36,
TOWNSHIP 40 NORTH, RANGE 11 EAST OF THE THIRD PRINCIPAL MERIDIAN, IN DUPAGE COUNTY, ILLINOIS.
PIN: 03-36-312-040
The common street address is 295305 N. York Street, Elmhurst, Illinois. The subject property is located within the C2 Community Shopping and Service District.
If you have any questions regarding this case, please contact the Community Development Department at 630-530-3121.
Any person who has a disability requiring a reasonable accommodation to participate in this meeting, should contact Emily Palm, ADA Compliance Officer, Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., City of Elmhurst, 209 N. York Street, Elmhurst, IL 60126, call 630-530-3770 or email HR@elmhurst.org within a reasonable time before the meeting. Please provide as much notice as possible for sign language interpreting requests. Eileen Franz, City Planner (Published in The Elmhurst Independent May 1, 2025) 471186
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Business & Service DIRECTORY
Well over sixty years, Pedersen Ryberg has provided meaningful and proven options with total respect in keeping with traditional values - whether a traditional funeral, traditional cremation, flameless cremation, or memorial service. We strive to maintain family wishes with uncompromised quality and value, and guide families in creating a way to remember loved ones.
Funeral Etiquette...
Accepted customs of dress and behavior in a funeral have changed over time, but courtesy never goes out of style. Here’s what we’d like you to know about funeral etiquette.
