VPR072723

Renovation work at Lufkin Park

Play at the plate Graduation day at Willowbrook

Willowbrook High School’s Class of 2021 celebrated its commencement with two separate ceremonies in the school’s main gymnasium on Sunday morning. The en tire class includes over 470 students. About half of those students attended the

Freshman Lindsey Rugg of the Willowbrook softball team is pictured while at tempting to score a run during Friday’s game at Downers Grove South. Rugg tried to score from second base on a single by sophomore Katelyn Cox in the top of the second inning, when the game was tied at 2-2. Downers Grove South’s catcher tagged Rugg out at home plate for the third out of the inning. The Mustangs went on to defeat the Warriors 7-3 in the West Suburban Gold Conference contest. Wil

The Village of Villa Park is partnering with DuPage County Stormwater Management to enlarge the detention pond at Lufkin Park, 1000 S. Ardmore Ave. The work to enlarge the pond began in early July. According to information provided by the village, the enlarged pond will help mitigate localized flooding. Several trees around the pond were removed earlier this year. The tree clearing could not take place between April 1 and September 30, due to legislation protecting the endangered Northern Long-Eared Bat. One year ago, the village was awarded a $400,000 Open

InsIde:

Space Lands Acquisition and Development (OSLAD) grant to redevelop Lufkin Park. The construction projects related to redevelopment at the park will begin this summer. The new amenities at the redeveloped park will include a community sized playground, an obstacle course, an interactive water spray pad, a community performance shelter, a bathroom/picnic shelter, sensory gardens and a walking trail. The redevelopment at the park will also include an observation pier overlooking the pond.

Experience the world without leaving your home

Hosts needed for international high school students throughout Chicago area

In an age when international relations are often tenuous, AFS-USA, a leader in international high school student exchange for 75 years, is focused on providing opportunities for intercultural exchange that can help lead to a more just and peaceful world.

AFS-USA invites families and individuals from the Chicago area and surrounding communities to become hosts for international students for 12 weeks, a semester, or an academic year.

Hosting provides individuals, families, high schools, and communities with opportunities to learn about the unfamiliar by exploring a diversity of cultures, all while sharing their own culture with a young person from a different country.

“AFS-USA nurtures active global citizens who make the world a better place,” AFS-USA president and CEO Tara Hofmann said. “Every new AFS student is another global citizen in progress—an individual primed to help build a more just

world that reflects peace and fellowship. The impact doesn’t stop with the students. Host families’ lives are transformed by students from across the globe and host communities gain greater cultural diversity.”

Exchange students represent nearly 80 countries and cultures, including Kenya, Ukraine, Egypt, Turkey (officially, the Republic of Türkiye), Italy, Germany, Chile, Thailand and more. They are among the more than 1,000 international AFS students hosted in the U.S. each year.

AFS-USA host families represent a broad range of U.S. cultures, including individuals and families of multi-national/ethnic backgrounds, those with and without children, those who are members of the LGBTQ+ community, and more.

In addition, AFS-USA has a more than 50-year partnership with the U.S. Department of State’s Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs (ECA), which offers numerous sponsored scholarships for international students to study abroad in the U.S.

including the following programs:

• Kennedy-Lugar Youth Exchange and Study (KL-YES): Through the U.S. Department of State’s YES program, high school students from countries with significant Muslim populations live and study for an academic year in the United States. Participants live with a host family, attend an American high school, acquire leadership skills, and engage in activities to learn about U.S. society and values; they also help educate Americans about their home country and culture.

• Congress-Bundestag Youth Exchange (CBYX): Jointly funded and managed by the U.S. Department of State and German government, CBYX provides full scholarships for German students to live and study abroad in the U.S. for an academic year. Participants live with a host family, attend an American high school, acquire leadership skills, and engage in activities to learn about U.S. society and values; they also help educate Americans about Ger-

Cooling centers are available in high heat

Heat and humidity can be a deadly combination, for those looking to stay out of the heat, there are a variety of cooling sites located throughout DuPage County at local libraries, park districts and community centers.

Some include: Addison Public Library, 4 Friendship Plaza; Addison Township, 401 No. Addison Rd.; Bensenville Village Hall, Public Library and Park District facilities; Elmhurst Public Library, 125 So. Prospect; Oakbrook Terrace police department, 17W261 Butterfield Rd.; Villa Park Public Library, 305 So. Ardmore; Villa Park police department, 40 So. Ardmore; Wood Dale Public

Music in the Park, classic cruise nights continue

Bensenville’s favorite summer concert series, Music in the Park, is already in full swing and continues every Wednesday through Aug. 30 from 7:30-9:30 p.m. in the traditional location in downtown Bensenville, on Center St. just south of Village Hall. This family-friendly event has something to offer for all musical tastes.

Bensenville restaurants will sell dinner and dessert items so families can enjoy a meal prior to each concert.

The classic car cruise nights will start at 6 p.m. each Wednesday night prior to the music.

The Music in the Park schedule for August will feature:

• Aug. 2: EZFM – 70’s Yacht Rock

• Aug. 9: The Blooze Brothers –The Midwest’s #1 Blues Brothers Tribute

• Aug. 16: Generation – Rock and Soul

• Aug. 23: Kashmir– The Led Zeppelin Concert

• Aug. 30: The Moods – Motown, R&B

Library, 520 No. Wood Dale Rd.; and York Township, 1502 So. Meyers Rd., Lombard. For more locations, visit DuPage County Health Department’s web site at dupagehealth.org.

The County offers the following hot weather tips:

• Stay hydrated by drinking at least one-and-one-half to two quarts of fluids daily, whether you are indoors or out, even if you don’t feel thirsty.

• Avoid alcoholic beverages and drinks containing caffeine.

• Avoid overexertion and strenuous outdoor activities if at all possible.

• Take advantage of cooling cen-

ters, public pools and air-conditioned stores and malls during periods of extreme heat. Even a few hours a day in air conditioning can help prevent heat-related illnesses.

• Don’t forget your pets. Offer pets extra water and place the water bowl in a shaded area if outdoors. Make sure pets have a shady refuge where they can escape direct sun exposure.

• If you or someone around you begins to experience dizziness, nausea, headache, confusion and a rapid pulse, seek medical attention immediately, as these could be the symptoms of heatstroke.

many and German culture.

• Future Leaders Exchange (FLEX): Through the U.S. Department of State’s FLEX program, high school students from Europe and Eurasia live and study for an academic year in the United States. Participants live with a host family, attend an American high school, acquire leadership skills, and engage in activities to learn about U.S. society and values; they also help educate Americans about their home country and culture.

Once students and host families are matched, they receive ongoing support from trained staff and are welcomed into their local chapter of dedicated volunteers, alumni, and fellow host families.

One thing that sets AFS-USA apart is the network of almost 3,000 volunteers throughout the U.S. Many volunteers have hosted international exchange students or studied abroad with AFS and will support families, students, and schools in gaining the most from their hosting experience.

Hosts are expected to provide their student(s) with a bed, meals and support and encouragement throughout their program. Students arrive with

their own spending money and medical coverage.

“These students attend local high schools, participate in local community life, and are encouraged to share aspects of their culture,” Hofmann said. “They also discover first-hand what it’s like to live in America and form lasting friendships that create enduring links between the U.S. and other countries. In many cases, the bonds that form between AFS students and their host families last a lifetime.”

AFS-USA is the largest organization within the international AFS network that includes 54 partners around the globe.

For more information

Those interested in hosting an AFS Exchange Student are encouraged to contact 1-800-AFS-INFO or visit www.afsusa.org for more information. For those interested in studying abroad please browse our programs and apply now to start your journey. You can also get involved as an AFSUSA Volunteer. Visit www.afsusa. org/volunteer to get started or learn more about opportunities to make a difference.

Villa Park reView

Your Hometown Newspaper

240 N. West Avenue Elmhurst, IL. 60126

Main Phone 630.834-8244 Fax 630.834-0900

The Villa Park Review is published every Thursday by Rock Valley Publishing, LLC, 240 N. West Avenue, Elmhurst, IL. 60126.

Display Advertising: 630.834-8355

Classified Advertising: 630.834-8244

News: 630.834-8244

General Information: 630.834-8244

E-mail:

Advertising Department: ads1@rvpublishing.com

News Department: CFox@rvpublishing.com

Classified Department: Classifieds@rvpublishing.com

Administration:

Chris Fox

News Coordinator

Debra Hamilton

Advertising Director

Pete Cruger

Publisher

Advertising:

Brenda Garcia

Kate McCarty

Subscriptions:

The Villa Park Review is mailed to the 60181 zip code areas for $45.00 yearly. Out-of-area mail subscriptions are $50.00 yearly. For home delivery information call 630.834-8244.

Reprints:

Content appearing in the Villa Park Review may not be reprinted without permission of the publisher or editor. Requests should be directed to Independent@rvpublishing.com or 630.834-8244.

Postmaster: Please send address changes to:

THE VILLA PARK REVIEW

240 N. West Avenue, Elmhurst, IL. 60126

Office Hours: Monday-Friday 11am-3pm

Firefighters respond to fire at a residence on South

Riverside Drive

No injuries reported; firefighters rescue homeowner’s cat

STAFF REPORT

The Villa Park Fire Department responded to a fire at a single-family home last week. No injuries were reported.

On Thursday, July 20, at approximately 8:50 p.m., Villa Park firefighters responded to a reported structure fire at 205 S. Riverside Drive. The first firefighters to arrive at the one-story home observed heavy fire conditions on the east side of the attached garage and in the attic.

The residence is located near the corner of Riverside and East Park Boulevard, just west of Route 83.

“Villa Park companies deployed multiple hose lines and initiated an aggressive interior fire attack while mutual-aid truck crews ventilated the roof,” noted Villa Park Fire Chief Steve Stapleton in a statement. “The fire was brought under control and was contained to the attached garage and attic space above.”

According to Stapleton, the homeowner, her young son and their two dogs were home at the time of the fire. They were able to evacuate the home before firefighters arrived, but the homeowner was unable to retrieve her cat.

“I’m happy to report that Villa Park Engine 81’s crew were able to rescue the cat and reunite her with the homeowner,” Stapleton said.

The home was determined to be uninhabitable. The homeowner said she and her family would be able to stay with relatives in the area.

“The cause of the fire is undetermined pending further investigation,” the fire chief added.

Firefighters from neighboring communities, including Lombard, Addison, Elmhurst, Oakbrook Terrace, Wheaton and York Center, provided assistance to the Villa Park Fire Department during the fire. The Villa Park Police Department also responded to the fire.

The Villa Park Fire Department’s Fire Investigation Unit (FIU) conducted an origin and cause investigation. The Villa Park Police Department’s evidence technician assisted in photographing the scene.

The Queen of Hearts remains hidden

in VFW Post 2801’s contest

Winner’s share is about $19,000, before taxes; next drawing takes place this Friday

STAFF REPORT

The winner’s share of Villa Park Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) Post 2801’s current Queen of Hearts contest stands at approximately $19,000—before taxes.

The contest’s next ticket drawing will be held at 8 p.m. this Friday, July 28. The drawing will take place at the post, which is located at 39 E. St. Charles Road.

The post is open to the public.

A five-pack of tickets in the Queen of Hearts drawing costs $5. Contestants do not need to be present at the Friday-night drawing. Tickets are on sale at the post throughout the week, up until a few minutes before the ticket drawing.

The contest features a board of 54 spaces that represent a full deck of cards, including two jokers. Each card on the board is numbered and concealed. The ticket drum is cleared after each week’s drawing.

Each Friday, the contest tickets that were sold during the week are spun in the rotating drum, and one ticket is selected. That ticket includes a number representing one of the spaces in which the card has not yet been revealed. If the card on that space contains the Queen of Hearts, the owner of the selected ticket claims the winner’s share.

The Queen of Hearts is still hiding behind one of 10 covered spaces remaining on the contest board. She cannot hide much longer.

The anticipation and the jackpot continue to rise in Villa Park Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) Post 2801’s current Queen of Hearts contest. The winner’s share in the contest now stands at about $19,000, before taxes. The Queen of Hearts remained hiding on the contest board after the drawing of Friday, July 21. Michael Huston of the post’s command staff spun the ticket drum before one ticket was selected. That ticket belonged to Mary Agrusa—the post’s bartender. She had filled out No. 36 on that ticket. If that space on the contest board revealed the Queen of Hearts, she would have won the jackpot. Space No. 36, however, revealed the Nine of Spades. Huston and Agrusa are pictured moments after Friday’s drawing. The next drawing takes place at 8 p.m. this Friday, July 28. There are 10 hidden spaces left on the contest board (14, 25, 26, 34, 39, 43, 46, 47, 48 and 53). The Queen of Hearts is hiding behind one of those spaces. A five-pack of tickets in this Friday’s contest costs $5. Tickets are on sale at the post throughout the week, up until a few minutes before the drawing. The post, which is open to the public, is located at 39 E. St. Charles Road. Contestants do not need to be present at the Friday-night drawing.

Village to resume electric municipal aggregation program

The Village of Villa Park will be resuming an electric municipal aggregation program.

Chicago-based MC Squared Energy Services, LLC (“mc2”) has been selected to serve eligible Villa Park residents and small business customers at the fixed rate of 7.89 cents per kilowatt-hour (kWh).

This locked-in rate will not change during the 25-month term of the agreement, beginning with the September ComEd meter read cycle through October 2025.

Villa Park’s National Night Out event takes place Aug. 1

The Village of Villa Park and the Villa Park Police Department will join thousands of communities across the country to mark National Night Out on Tuesday, Aug. 1.

Villa Park’s National Night Out event will take place at the Prairie Path Pavilion (at Villa Avenue and Central Boulevard) from 5:30 to 8 p.m. on Aug. 1.

Residents are invited to attend the free event, which will include food, music, games, face painting, give-

aways and a display of emergency vehicles and equipment.

National Night Out is an annual community-building campaign that promotes partnerships between police and the communities they serve. Those partnerships can help make neighborhoods safer and more caring places to live.

National Night Out events also provide an opportunity to bring police and residents together under positive circumstances.

The village’s green electric aggregation program with mc2 includes Midwest-generated wind, solar, and hydroelectric Renewable Energy Certificates (RECs) equal to 100 percent of the electricity consumed by the participating accounts during the program term.

The RECs will be retired in the village’s name, and the village will be designated as an EPA Green Power Community.

There is nothing you need to do in order to participate as mc2 will automatically process your enrollment, unless you opt out of the program. For additional information, see the enclosed “Terms and Conditions” and “Uniform Disclosure Statement”.

Opt-out option?

You may opt out by calling (833) 939-0452, Monday through Friday 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. or returning the post card by Aug. 7. In addition, you can cancel your agreement at any time with no termination fees. If you do not Opt-Out of the village’s electric aggregation program, you will be deemed to have authorized and agreed

to your enrollment in the program, and to have your electricity supply service with mc2 under the “Terms and Conditions” and “Uniform Disclosure Statement” enclosed.

If you are currently participating in a community solar savings program, or will be in the future, this municipal electricity aggregation supply program will not impact your community solar program. The community solar generation credits provided by ComEd are independent of this aggregation program.

What is electric aggregation?

On Aug. 10, 2009, Gov. Pat Quinn signed into law Public Act 096-0176, which allows municipalities to arrange for the provision of electric to residential and small commercial retail customers by alternative electric suppliers (i.e., suppliers other than ComEd). Under this law, the municipality may seek bids for the provision of aggregate electric supply services to their residents and small businesses.

See PROGRAM, Page 5

CHRIS FOX PHOTO Rock Valley Publishing

Mariners achieve multiple personal-best times at the ‘B’ Meet

STAFF REPORT

Several members of the Villa Park Mariners swim team finished the 2023 season by competing in the DuPage Swim and Dive Conference’s Red and Blue Division ‘B’ Meet in Carol Stream on July 15. The main goal of swimmers at the ‘B’ Meet was to achieve personal-best times for the season. There were no relay events at the ‘B’ Meet.

The Mariners, who swam in the conference’s Red Division this season, made a total of 111 “splashes” at the ‘B’ Meet in Carol Stream. Of those 111 appearances in the pool, the Mariners earned personal-best times for the season in 81 events. Villa Park swimmers earned personal-best times for the season in 73 percent of their races at the ‘B’ Meet.

The Mariners who achieved personal-best times for the season at the July 15 meet in Carol Stream included:

8-and-under girls: Brooke Borkowski (25-yard freestyle, 25-yard backstroke); Elyse Gutman (25-yard freestyle, 50-yard freestyle); Nora Steverson (25-yard freestyle, 50-yard freestyle, 25-yard backstroke); Margot Tarsitano (25-yard freestyle) and Abigail Wilson (25-yard freestyle, 50-yard freestyle);

8-and-under boys: Brycen Newell (25-yard freestyle) and Tre Tarsitano (25-yard freestyle);

9-10 girls: Annie Gutman (50-yard freestyle, 100-yard freestyle); Bella Gutman (50-yard freestyle, 100-yard freestyle); Ariana Knudtson (50-yard freestyle, 100-yard individual medley, 50-yard butterfly); Caitlin McQuillan (50-yard breaststroke) and Zoe Watley (50-yard freestyle);

9-10 boys: Jackson Alfano (100yard freestyle, 50-yard backstroke); Anders Dalberg (50-yard freestyle); Owen Mohr (50-yard freestyle, 100yard freestyle); Frankie Romano (50-

• Program

yard freestyle, 100-yard individual medley, 50-yard breaststroke); Matt Urton (50-yard freestyle, 50-yard backstroke); Kyle VanKoughnet (50yard freestyle, 50-yard backstroke) and Joel Wilson (50-yard freestyle);

11-12 girls: Victoria Andrews (50yard freestyle, 100-yard freestyle, 50-yard backstroke); Teia Fragoso (100-yard individual medley); Vivian Little (100-yard freestyle, 50-yard backstroke) and Scout Wadford-Smole (50-yard butterfly);

11-12 boys: Alex Carson (50-yard freestyle, 100-yard freestyle) and Andrew Urton (100-yard individual medley, 50-yard breaststroke);

13-14 girls: Penelope Dean (100yard freestyle, 50-yard backstroke); Azana Jackson (50-yard freestyle, 50yard backstroke, 50-yard breaststroke) and Aubrey Reznik (50-yard freestyle, 100-yard freestyle);

13-14 boys: Spencer Kaina (100yard freestyle) and Zeke Little (50yard freestyle, 100-yard individual medley, 50-yard breaststroke);

15-18 girls: Harper Conboy (50yard butterfly); Lily Vaughan Conboy (50-yard breaststroke); Megan Hasler (100-yard freestyle); Gabby Knudtson (50-yard freestyle, 50-yard butterfly, 50-yard backstroke); Norah Luedtke (50-yard freestyle, 100-yard freestyle); Caitlin O’Connor (50-yard freestyle, 50-yard butterfly); Tabitha Smaczny (100-yard individual medley, 50yard butterfly, 50-yard breaststroke); Maisie Thompson (100-yard individual medley, 50-yard backstroke) and Bree Waca (50-yard freestyle, 50-yard backstroke);

15-18 boys: Joshua Jackson (50yard freestyle, 100-yard freestyle, 50yard breaststroke); Kyle Kolp (100yard individual medley, 50-yard butterfly, 50-yard breaststroke) and Tyler Thomas (50-yard freestyle, 50-yard backstroke).

(Continued from page 4)

Who is eligible to participate?

Eligible residential requirements:

All residents located in the village as indicated by ComEd, are eligible to participate.

Eligible business requirements: All small businesses located in the village as indicated by ComEd, with a ComEd designated annual usage of 15,000 kWh or less, are eligible to participate.

What will change on my electric bill if I’m enrolled?

You will continue to receive a single bill from ComEd each month. “MC Squared Energy Services” will be designated as your supplier in the “Supply” section of your ComEd bill. ComEd will continue to bill you for distribution services and taxes. Payments should still be sent to ComEd at the address provided. There is no impact to ComEd services such as budget billing, peak time savings and/or financial assistance.

Will I receive notification of the supplier change?

ComEd will always mail a confirmation letter indicating a service change.

Is there an early termination fee?

There is no termination fee; you

While some Mariners finished the season by swimming at the ‘B’ Meet in Carol Stream, other Mariners

closed out the season by competing in Saturday’s Red Division ‘A’ Meet in Bartlett. The Mariners battled swim-

mers from the Red Division’s three other teams—Bartlett, Butterfield and Roselle—at Saturday’s meet.

are only obligated to pay for services rendered under the contract until your service is terminated.

Will my electric service be disrupted when I switch?

No, there will be no disruption in service. You will continue to receive the same electric service through the same transmission and distribution system currently operated by ComEd. The switch to mc2 is seamless.

What happens at the end of the program term?

At the end of the term, if the village decides to end the program, all accounts served by mc2 will be returned to ComEd service.

Summary of benefits

• Electric supply price is fixed for the duration of the term.

• Midwest-generated wind Renewable Energy Certificates (RECs) equal to 100 percent of the electricity consumed by the participating accounts.

• Residents and small businesses may opt out at any time with no termination fees.

Questions?

Contact MC Squared Energy Services, LLC by phone at (833) 9390452 or by email at VillaPark@ mc2energyservices.com

Willowbrook Booster Club presents scholarships

Willowbrook High School’s Athletic Booster Club held its senior athletic banquet near the end of the 2022-23 school year. The banquet, which was held at the school, featured the presentation of scholarships and awards to several members of Willowbrook’s Class of 2023. Six seniors received Booster Club Scholarships of $1,000 each. The six scholarships were awarded to student-athletes for their athletic ability and achievements. A committee that included booster club members selected 12 finalists for the scholarships before naming the six recipients. The six winners of the 2023 Booster Club Scholarships are: Sarah Ball, Amelia Barrington, James Degnan, Grace Roscoe, Isaac Sobieszczyk and Joey Tumilty. Pictured left to right at the banquet are: Booster Club President Ed Dowling, Sobieszczyk, Roscoe, Ball, Degnan and Barrington. Tumilty, who competed at an IHSA track and field sectional on the night of the banquet, is not pictured. The six finalists who were recognized as alternates for the scholarships are: Madison Aderholt, Brianna Alandy, Elijah Smith, Isaiah Smith, Sara Stout and Brett Vandergrift.

CHRIS FOX PHOTO Rock Valley Publishing

The Villa Park Mariners’ foursome of (left to right) Elin Stempel, Ruth Aldana, Lydia Aldana and Ary Carrola swam to a convincing victory in the 200-yard freestyle relay in the 9-10 girls level of Saturday’s DuPage Swim and Dive Conference Red Division ‘A’ Meet in Bartlett. Ary swam the opening leg of the relay. Lydia swam the second leg, while Ruth swam the third leg before Elin swam the anchor leg. The victorious Mariners are pictured moments after their first-place performance. Villa Park competed against swimmers from the Red Division’s three other teams—Bartlett, Butterfield and Roselle—during Saturday’s meet. More information about the meet will be published in an upcoming issue.

JOE PEARSON PHOTO Rock Valley Publishing

Police Reports

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

Addison

July 18

Eric K. Hudson, 56, was charged with aggravated IVC felonies and identity theft of less than $300 at 5:28 p.m.

Eric Pascual-Funes, 22, of Elmhurst, was charged with DUI, leaving the scene of an accident and transportation/carrying liquor by a driver near Lake and McNair at 2:55 p.m.

July 15

Juan Pablo Garcia Serrano, 39, of Addison, was charged with DUI, driving while license expired, improper turn and not driving on the right side

of the road near Oak and Addison at 2:31 a.m.

July 4

Alfredo Andrade, 33, of Chicago, was charged with two counts of DUI, improper lane usage and improper stop or turn signal near Lake and Addison at 9:45 p.m.

Matthew A. Pioch, 26, of Campton Hills, was charged with possession of cannabis in a vehicle by a driver speeding and a failure to appear warrant for driving while license suspended at 12:22 a.m.

July 3

Gustavo J. Sosa, 24, of Addison, was charged with DUI, transportation/ carrying alcohol by a driver, speeding and possession of cannabis in a vehicle near Army Trail and Stonehedge at 8:21 p.m.

Raul Soto-Pelaez, 30, of Glendale Heights, was charged with DUI, driving while license expired and no insurance near Army Trail and Swift at 4:08 a.m.

Receive a digital copy of your hometown newspaper every week with an eSubscription. The eSubscription is a PDF copy of the printed newspaper emailed to you every week for only $35 a year. There’s no waiting for your home delivery. Your link to the weekly newspaper will be emailed to you every Thursday. The digital version of the newspaper can be read on a computer, laptop or tablet.

For an eSubscription, visit rockvalleyenews.com or call 627-7010.

A 26-year-old Addison man was charged with two counts of domestic battery in the 100 block of S. Lalonde at 9:50 p.m.

July 2

Jose Angel Marcos, 32, of Aurora, was charged with two counts of DUI and endangering the life/health of a child near Lake and Rohlwing at 12:17 a.m.

Carlos Pacheco, 35, of Elmwood Park, was charged with DUI and speeding 30-39 mph over the limit near Lake and Ellsworth at 9:47 p.m.

A 67-year-old Schaumburg man and a 57-year-old Schaumburg man were charged with domestic battery at 9:08 p.m.

July 1

Darwin J. Galvez-Torres, 28, of Addison, was charged with retail theft of displayed merchandise under $300 in the 1-100 block of W. Lake at 11:38 p.m.

Gisela Oliver Martinez, 49, of Addison, was charged with DUI, battery

and resisting a police officer in the 500 block of W. Lake at 10:11 p.m.

June 30

Samuel A. Velasquez Garcia, 21, of Addison, was charged with aggravated criminal sexual assault Felipe Neri Serrano, 42, of Addison, was charged with DUI, possession of a controlled substance, endangering the life/health of a child and speeding 30-39 mph over the limit near Church and Fullerton at 5:21 p.m.

Villa Park

July 15

Police said Marianna Alvarez, 49, of Elmwood Park, was arrested on an original complaint and warrant in the 300 block of N. Lincoln for theft/ unauthorized control with intent not exceeding $500.

A complainant in the 1000 block of N. Ardmore reported unknown suspects battered them. The complainant was transported to an area hospital.

July 14

A 61-year-old woman from Lagrange Park was charged with two counts of domestic battery in the 400 block of N. Villa at 7:34 p.m.

A complainant in the 100 block of E. Vermont reported at 2:01 a.m. that a suspect removed money and credit cards from their wallet.

A complainant in the 300 block of N. Princeton reported at 1:36 p.m. that suspects battered each other but do not want to press charges.

A complainant at a store in the 1-100 block of E. North reported at 2:02 p.m. that a suspect removed several items from display shelves and left the store without paying.

July 13

Police said Adam Dehne, 37, of Villa Park, was arrested a Cook County warrant in the 100 block of N. Summit at 1:15 a.m.

A complainant in the 200 block of W. Division reported at 5:24 a.m. that an unknown suspect removed their vehicle from parking lot.

A complainant in the 400 block of S. Princeton reported at 8:44 a.m. that a suspect is threatening them.

A complainant in the 500 block of No. 3rd reported that an unknown suspect removed a wallet from a vehicle parked in the driveway and also used the complainant’s credit cards.

July 12

A complainant at a bar in the 100 block of E. North reported at 10:17 p.m. that subjects were physically fighting.

July 11

A complainant at a store in the 900 block of S. Route 83 reported that a suspect removed multiple items from display shelves and left the store without paying. The suspect was located and trespassed.

A complainant in the 400 block of S. Princeton reported that an unknown suspect entered their backyard and damaged decorations.

July 10

Police said Angelo James Lamantia, 62, of St. Charles, was arrested on arrested on an original complaint

and warrant for battery causing bodily harm, battery making physical contact of an insulting or provoking nature at Willowbrook High School at 7:10 a.m. The alleged incident occurred June 10.

Mary E. Royal, 60, of Villa Park, was charged with DUI, improper lane usage, failure to yield to an authorized emergency vehicle and no insurance in the 700 block of N. Addison at 10:03 a.m.

A complainant at a store in the 900 block of S. Route 83 reported at 12:46 p.m. that an unknown suspect removed multiple items from display shelves and left the store without paying.

A 13-year-old male juvenile from Lombard was charged with residential burglary and possession of a stolen firearm in the 300 block of N. Bierman at 4:41 p.m.

A complainant at a restaurant in the 200 block of W. Roosevelt reported at 6:31 p.m. that an unknown suspect removed their purse during a rideshare trip.

July 9

A complainant at a business in the 300 block of E Roosevelt reported that subjects were physically fighting in the parking lot.

July 8

A complainant at a business in the 400 block of W. Division reported at 10:47 p.m. that a suspect was refusing to leave and the complainant wanted the suspect trespassed. The suspect was issued a no-trespass notice.

July 6

A complainant at a business in the 300 block of W. North reported at 2:51 p.m. that an unknown suspect removed money from a purse that was on a table.

Fraud, identity theft

According to information provided last week by the Villa Park Police Department, police reported two incidents of residents being a victim of fraud or identity theft.

Bensenville

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

July 19, 6:07 a.m. in the 600 block of N. Route 83, a complainant reported an unknown suspect threw an unknown clear liquid on them due to a parking altercation. This incident is under investigation. BEPC23008329

July 19, 5:22 p.m. in the 400 block of Supreme Drive, a complainant reported money missing from their vehicle. This incident is under investigation. BEPC2300594

July 19, 9:25 p.m. in the 200 block of Beeline Drive, Jan Fiedoruk, 65, of Round Lake, was arrested for criminal trespass. BEPC2300596 See POLICE, Page 11

DuPage County Animal Services breaks ground on expansion

DuPage County officials broke ground last week on the first expansion of the DuPage County Animal Services facility in its 45-year history.

The county will construct the expansion on the southern side of the existing building to help alleviate overcrowding in the shelter, create more animal treatment space and better serve the staff, volunteers and visitors to the facility.

The expansion will include more than 4,300 square feet of renovations, nearly 11,500 square feet of added enclosed spaces, and a 2,200 square-foot covered patio for outdoor training or events.

“This state-of-the-art shelter will provide a modern, stress-reducing, and healthy home. We will provide the best possible care for all animals, while providing space for our staff to do more for pets and the communi-

Welcoming is an u nderstatement.

ty,” said County Board Chair Deborah Conroy.

The project will cost nearly $11 million and will not utilize any General Fund tax dollars for its completion.

The project was made possible by private donors, including one anonymous benefactor who contributed $4.5 million and $1.5 million raised by Animal Services’ nonprofit partner, DuPage Animal Friends.

The friendly and vibrant lifestyle at Beacon Hill is undeniable. From beautiful campus, to focused wellness and fitness programs, to di stinctive din ing e xperiences, t o a plethora o f s ocial, cu ltura l, and educational o pportunities, t h ere’s no s hortage o f ne w adventures to be had.

Call 630-757-8997 or visi t GoBHLombard.com for m ore i nformation .

Beacon Hill 2400 South Finley Road Lombard, IL 60148

“This facility will become a reality thanks to impressive fundraising efforts. The community played a vital role in making this happen, and we are so grateful to everyone who helped get this project underway,” said Brian Krajewski, Chairman of the County’s Animal Services Committee.

The DuPage County Animal Services building was built in 1977 and has not been expanded in that time-

frame.

DuPage Animal Friends is undergoing a capital campaign to raise funds to offset the amount of reserve funds DuPage County Animal Services will need to spend to complete the expansion. To learn more about the expansion or the capital campaign, please visit https://www.dupagecounty.gov/government/departments/animal_services/capital_campaign.php.

DuPage County officials are shown here breaking ground last week on the first expansion of the DuPage County Animal Services facility in its 45-year history.

SUBMITTED PHOTO Rock Valley Publishing

DuPAGE DESTINATIONS

Your Dining & Entertainment Guide to the Western Suburbs

Can’t-miss events throughout DuPage County

Editor’s note: If you have information on an event in DuPage County taking place that you would like us to consider listing here, please email that information to: news1@rvpublishing. com.

Ongoing

North Suburban Carvers meetings

The North Suburban Carvers meet on the first and third Mondays of each month at the Wood Dale Public Library from 6:30-8:30 p.m. Anyone interested in carving, power carving, wood burning or special finishing techniques is welcome. North Suburban Carvers is a non-profit organization that promotes carving in the Chicago area. For more information, visit: northsurburbancarvers.com. org/calendar.aspx.

Now through Aug. 9

Wednesday Nights Live

Elmhurst

Recurring Wednesdays from 6:30-8:30 p.m. at the Elmhurst City Centre, 256 N. York St., enjoy the region’s top cover bands under the Umbrella

Sky Installation. Free. For more information, visit: https://elmhurstcitycentre.com.

Now through Aug. 15

Summer Concert Series

Downers Grove

Recurring Tuesdays from 6-8:30 p.m. at Fishel Park, 1036 Curtiss St., these free concerts feature rock, country, blues, and oldies bands. Watch the concerts in person at the park. Doors open and food and beverage sales begin at 6 p.m. Music will play between 7 and 8:30 p.m. Don’t forget to bring your lawn chairs or blankets. For more information, visit: www.dgparks.org/summer-concert-series.

Now through Aug. 20

Marvelocity: The art of Alex Ross

Elmhurst

Recurring daily at the Elmhurst Art Museum, 150 Cottage Hill Ave., this exhibit celebrates one of the greatest artists in the field of comic books. From his home in the Chicago area, Ross has revitalized classic superheroes into works of

fine art by illustrating characters such as Spider-Man, Captain America, Iron Man, Storm from the X-Men, the Avengers, Black Panther and many more for nearly 30 years. For more information, visit: www.elmhurstartmuseum. org/exhibitions/marvelocity/.

Now through Aug. 22

Vintage Rides

Wheaton

Recurring on select dates in downtown Wheaton on Liberty Drive—June 20, June 27, July 11, July 25, Aug. 8 and Aug. 22—from 5-9 p.m., admire cars from Model Ts to Teslas, and everything in between, as a DJ spins tunes. There are no fees to exhibit and no advanced registration necessary. Vintage Rides vehicle parking will only be allowed in designated parking spaces. All types of classic vehicles are welcome on any night. Free. For more information, visit: www. downtownwheaton.com/vintagerides.

Now through Aug. 23

Music in the Park

Bensenville

Recurring weekly on Wednesdays from 7:309:30 p.m. in downtown Bensenville, one of the area’s favorite summer concert series features great music, a classic car cruise night and a 50/50 split the pot raffle that benefits not for profit organizations in the community. Free. For more information on bands that will be performing, visit: https://www.bensenville.il.us/.

Now through Aug. 30 Arbor Evenings Lisle

Recurring weekly on Wednesday from 6-8 p.m. at the Morton Arboretum, 4100 Route 53, Unwind with family and friends on Wednesday evenings at The Morton Arboretum this summer. Mingle as you enjoy live music surrounded by beautiful trees on the picturesque Frost Hill. Admission: $8 for members, $13 for nonmenbers. For more information and a performance schedule, visit: https://mortonarb.org/explore/ activities/events/arbor-evenings.

Now through Aug. 31 Rock ‘N Wheels

Addison

Recurring Thursdays from 6-10 p.m. presented by the Village of Addison, Rock ‘N Wheels features vintage vehicles, great bands from the area and food tents. Admission: free. For more information and a schedule of bands, visit: www.ithappensinaddison.com/events.

Crusin’ Nights and Street Fair

Westmont

Recurring Thursdays from 5-9 p.m. at Cass Avenue and Norfolk Street, live music, cool cars, festival environment—walk with your beverage throughout the event, food and beverage specials, kids activities, and three blocks of streets closed off and dedicated to classic car parking. Admission: free. For more information, visit: https://westmontevents.com/cruisin-nights.

Now through Sept. 1

Moose Cruise Nights and Friday Night Live Downers Grove

From 5:30-8 p.m. every Friday, it’s time for Downtown Downers Grove’s live concert series. The Moose Cruise Night, sponsored by the Moose Lodge is located on Warren Avenue between Forest and Main as well as Lot A, from 4-8 p.m. Warren Avenue will be closed from Forest to Main. Space is limited and registration not available. For a full schedule of concerts, visit: www.downtowndg.org/whats-happening/ moose-cruise-night-and-friday-night-live.

Now through Sept. 23

Fifteen Minutes of Fame exhibit

Lombard

Recurring daily at the Lombard Historical Society, 23 W. Maple St., AndyWarhol was simultaneously an artist, magazine illustrator and magazine owner, filmmaker and gossip columnist. His life and work have endured, and he continues to influence product design, media and fashion. However, it is especially his influence as a fashionista that is at the core of these events. Admission: free. For more information, visit: www.lombardhistory.org/newevents-1/2023/6/1/fifteen-minutes-of-fame-exhibit-opening.

Now through Sept. 30

Muddy Warhol Art Exhibit Westmont

Recurring daily t the Westmont Centre, 1 S. Cass Ave., the Westmont Special Events Corporation (WSEC) NFP has created the Muddy Warhol Art Contest & Exhibit to cross promote a new Andy Warhol Exhibit at the College of DuPage, which will debut this spring, as well as highlight the Muddy Waters Blues Exhibit in Westmont. The contest and exhibit will encourage artists to create and submit Warhol-inspired art featuring the image of blues music legend Muddy Waters. Waters lived in Westmont from 1973 until he passed in 1983. Westmont Special Events has created a blues exhibit and annual Muddy Waters Blues Tribute music event to honor the American music icon.

For more information, visit: https://westmont. illinois.gov/CivicAlerts.aspx?AID=1748&fbclid=IwAR3MoCxv0KpmIu64FAtmYhMwTjagx47XRwCWzQ9NuKvRHcRTcJqjJHMpmsM.

Now through Nov. 25 French Market Wheaton

Recurring weekly from 8 a.m.-2 p.m. on Saturdays in downtown Wheaton (Main Street and Liberty Drive), Saturdays are Market Days in Wheaton. Come and explore ... you will find a great assortment of goods. Flowers, locally grown produce, jewelry, crafts and more are sold. Free.

For more information, visit: https://bensidounusa.com/wheaton/.

SUNDAYS

Come Play Games on the

PRIVATE GAMING ROOM

HDAILY DINE IN ONLY SPECIALS H

50¢ Boneless Wings LIMIT 12 (with side purchase)

$5 Sausage & Peppers ‘Wich (with side purchase)

$9 Pasta Marinara (add $2 for Vodka, Meat, Carbonara or Alfredo)

$10 Bacon Wrapped Pickle Spears

$10 Vegan Pasta Marinara

$4 Mimosa - $6 Tito’s Bloody Mary

$4.50 Miller Lite or $6 Import 22 oz. Drafts

$17 Bottles of Woodbridge House Wine

TUESDAYS

$2 Beef/Pulled Pork Taco

$3 Chicken - Fish - Pork Belly - Steak

$4 Vegan Tacos - Impossible Meat - Chicken - Pork

$4 Cilantro Lime Rice or Seasoned Black Beans

$10 BACON Nachos

$4 Modelo Draft

$6 Don Julio Margaritas

$7 Don Julio Frozen Margaritas

$20 Any Mexican Beer Buckets

WEDNESDAYS

FREE Bar Bingo/Kids eat free

10 and Under - Ask server for more details

$5 Gourmet Cheeseburger (with side purchase)

$10 BACON Wrapped Mushrooms

$8 Impossible Burger (with side purchase)

$5 U Call Its $8 and Under Wine/Liquor ONLY

THURSDAYS

$5 Pulled Pork ‘Wich (with side purchase)

$10 BACON Wrapped Mozzarella Sticks

$8 Vegan Chicken Parmesan ‘Wich (with side purchase)

$4 Drafts $8 and Under

Half Price Bottles of Wine $25 or More

1/2 Off any $20 or More Bourbon, Scotch or Whiskey

FRIDAYS

$5 Pepper & Egg ‘Wich (with side purchase)

$15 Fish & Chips (1/2 Pound Alaskan White Fish)

$10 Bacon Stuffed Avocado

$8 Vegan Burrito (with side purchase)

$5 Stella Draft

$5 Crown or Titos

$25 High Noon Buckets

H H H

SATURDAYS/UFC

$5 1/2 Lb BLT ‘Wich (with side purchase)

$10 BACON Croquettes

$8 Vegan Buffalo Chicken ‘Wich (with side purchase)

$5 Sam Seasonal Draft

$5 Proper Twelve Shot

$5 Absolut or Jameson

$22 Modelo Buckets

CLOSED - MONDAYS

99¢ Chicken Tenders ~ SLIDERS ~

$2 Grilled Chicken - Meatball - Pulled Pork

$3 Burger - Fish - Pork Belly

$4 Vegan Chicken or Impossible Slider

$5 Italian Beef ‘Wich

$8 Medium Cheese Pizza - $3 Full Toppings

$12 XL Cheese Pizza - $4 Full Toppings

$4 Well Gin, Rum, Tequila, Vodka & Whiskey

$4 House Wine (Woodbridge)

$5 Blue Moon Drafts

$15 Domestic Buckets - $20 Import Buckets

$8 Jefferson Old Fashioned

$5 Jefferson 1.25 oz. Pour

Other people’s mouths

In a book I’m reading, the author relates a lesson taught by one of his teachers, who told him, “You can’t shut other people’s mouths.”

I found this thought to be genius.

It’s a simple, but profound statement.

You can’t control what other people say. You physically can’t shut someone’s mouth. Sometimes you can’t even find the gumption to shut your own. How can you be expected to be in control of one completely outside yourself?

Good question.

Still, it’s a truth: you can’t shut other people’s mouths. (No matter how much you wish you could.)

You aren’t in control of the words someone else chooses to speak.

And some people choose doozies. Especially in our current culture of speaking them from behind a keyboard or screen. It makes our words feel anonymous or maybe even invisible, but they’re not.

The ensuing situation is wrought with possibilities for misinterpretation and hurt feelings— too often leading to lost relationships and division—or at the very least an unfriending.

Words matter. But as cognizant of this that you may be, you still aren’t in control of the words of others. Not even one of them.

And that can be tough. Hard to listen to. Hard to hear. Hard to read. Quite limiting, actually. Unless you

By JILL PERTLER Columnist

take the road less traveled, so to speak.

You can’t control what other people say—or write—but you can take charge of what you listen to and—even more importantly—what you choose to hear.

Therein lies the power.

The cable news channels, the radio, the Internet, your friends, neighbors, in-laws, kids—all of them, whomever they may be—are free to say whatever they want (or nearly so) and sometimes that might cause discord, anger and even anguish.

But you have freedom as well.

Freedom to choose not to listen. To close them out and to tune into your own truths.

It’s like the old childhood trick of plugging your ears with your fingers and singing “la la la la la” into your adversary’s face. Or, like watching a horror movie and putting a pillow over your ears so you can’t listen to the scary music or sound effects.

Be forewarned, however, it isn’t easy.

Controlling what you input into your brain takes more than putting

your fingers in your ears or a pillow over your face. More likely it involves changing the TV channel or the social media sites you choose to frequent. It may even impact who you spend time with or engage in conversation.

Now we’re getting complicated and real, aren’t we?

You can’t shut other people’s mouths. You can’t keep them from spouting out loud or posting in all caps. But you can choose not to listen or tune in. Or to allow them into your network. To allow them into your brain time.

It’s about controlling your own mind and your own thoughts—either by avoiding the negative messaging or by learning to tune it out. And that starts—and ends—with what information you allow in. Or, better put, what information you seek to allow in.

This can be achieved by not listening in the first place, or by simply refusing to pay attention to negativity that could be detrimental to your state of well-being. As hard as that may be.

And it will be hard—at first. But the rewards are significant and include peace of mind. And you can’t put a price on that.

Jill Pertler is an award-winning syndicated columnist, published playwright and author. Don’t miss a slice; follow the Slices of Life page on Facebook.

State’s Attorney Berlin issues statement regarding the Illinois Supreme Court’s decision to eliminate cash bail

The Illinois Supreme Court has found the Pre-Trial Fairness provision of the amended Safe-TAct constitutional. The law as originally written and passed by the General Assembly, included many glaring deficiencies, including the elimination of cash bail, which would have almost completely eliminated judicial discretion when considering a defendant’s likelihood to appear at future court hearings or if the defendant posed a danger to society.

“On Oct. 3, 2022, myself, Kane County State’s Attorney Jamie Mosser and Champaign County State’s Attorney Julia Rietz, accepted an invitation from Illinois Senate President Don Harmon’s deputy chief of staff to serve on a group of stakeholders that included only three state’s attorneys to remedy these deficiencies. Many of the improvements recommended by this group were passed by the General Assembly and signed into law on Dec. 6, 2022. I am very proud of the improvements advanced by this group and, as the only Republican on the panel, I am grateful to Senate President Harmon for allowing me the opportunity to work in a bipartisan fashion to ensure the continued protection of the public.

These amendments go a long way in rectifying many, but not all, of the anticipated problems and restore some measure of judicial discretion at bond hearings.

Public safety remains my top priority, and I will continue to advocate, as I have from the beginning, for a pretrial system similar to that in New Jersey which allows judges to detain a person for any crime where prosecutors prove by clear and convincing evidence that the defendant will not appear in court, the defendant poses a danger to any other person or the community, or the defendant will obstruct or attempt to obstruct justice, or threaten, injure, intimidate or attempt to threaten, injure or intimidate a prospective witness or juror. Such a system will improve public safety by ensuring that violent people are detained pretrial while those who are not a threat to the community are released.

I thank the trial team as well as all of my colleagues and the state’s attorneys who participated in the legal challenge to this new law for their outstanding efforts in representing the citizens of Illinois in this very important matter.

Our engagement in this matter was conducted with no personal or political agenda regarding the SafeT-Act and we remain committed to serving the residents of our counties under legislation passed by the General Assembly and signed into law by the governor.”

4-H’ers to lead service opportunities and showcase projects at county fair

For scores of DuPage County youth, 4-H project exhibits and animal shows are an important and fun part of the DuPage County Fair.

This year, local 4-H clubs and members also will be spearheading service opportunities at the annual summertime event, July 28 to 30 in Wheaton.

“We are excited to be part of the 2023 DuPage County Fair, and we hope you will join us fair weekend to learn a little more about 4-H here in the western suburbs,” said Nancy Reppe, 4-H Youth Development Program coordinator. “Throughout

the year, our 4-H members learn new things, develop skills, and give back to their communities, and they will be sharing all of those through fun opportunities at this year’s county fair.”

Many 4-H projects will be judged on Thursday and displayed for viewing during the three-day fair in Building No. 1. These include photography, woodworking, aerospace, natural resources, robotics, cooking, a wide variety of creative arts, and more. Through the 4-H confer-

July 19, 9:49 p.m. in the 300 block of E. Green St., Maria I. Aguado, 42, of Elmhurst, was arrested for an original warrant out of Bensenville.

BEPC2300597

July 18, 2:19 p.m. in the 100 block of Henderson Street, a complainant reported paying money to a Facebook craft event which turned out to be a scam. This case in under investigation.

BEP23008302

July 18, 3:21 p.m. in the 500 block of W. Jefferson St., a complainant reported a fraudulent post on “What’s happening in Wood Dale” on Facebook stating a craft event was supposedly scheduled at White Pines, but in fact, there was no event planned.

BEP23008305

July 18, 7:13 p.m. in the 500 block of N. York Road, a complainant reported four tires missing from the

• Projects

back of their truck. This incident is under investigation. BEPC2300590

July 18, 10:06 p.m. near I-290 and E. St. Charles Road, Bryan Fogell, 32, of Bensenville, was arrested for fleeing/attempting to elude a police officer and a no-bond Cook County warrant. BEPC2300591

July 17, 8:12 p.m. near Route 83 83 and Mark Street, Darryl A Williams, 23, of University Park, was arrested for an outstanding warrant for robbery out of Cook County. He was transported to the station for processing, then transported to the Du Page County Jail.

BEPC2300588

July 16, 7 p.m. in the 200 block of Roosevelt Avenue, a complainant reported a known suspect has been harassing them by telephone and at their house. This incident is under investi-

(Continued from page 10

ence judging process, youth gain valuable presentation experience and feedback from local adult volunteers to help them continue growing and learning in a project area.

On Friday from 5 to 8 p.m., fairgoers can enjoy the 4-H Family Fun Fair, which will feature Fur-H Dog Club demonstrations, a small animal petting

Puzzles

zoo, and traditional farm games, all on the West Lawn at Building No. 1. At the same time, Trinity Trailblazers 4-H Club will be hosting “Pack a Snack” event to benefit youth experiencing homelessness in DuPage County.

On Saturday, 4-H will host animal shows, including poultry at noon, goats and sheep starting at 4 p.m., and rabbits

gation. BEPC2300586

July 16, 9:40 p.m. in the 1000 block of S. York Road, a complainant reported an unknown suspect took alcohol without paying. This case is under investigation. BEPC2300587

July 15, 7:51 p.m. in the 200 block of W. Grand Ave., Bryan A. Alvarado, 18, of Bensenville, was arrested disorderly conduct and other violations.

BEPC2300583

July 13, 5:38 p.m. in the 200 block of George Street, a complainant reported battery by a known suspect. This incident is under investigation.

BEPC2300578

July 13, 11:23 p.m. in the 100 block of Dolores Drive, a complainant reported someone shattered her front door window to her apartment. This incident is under investigation.

BEPC2300580

at 6:30 p.m. Earlier this summer, DuPage 4-H youth also participated in dog and horse shows. Throughout the DuPage County Fair, 4-H invites the public to bring a can of food to donate to the 4-H CAN Make a Difference Drive, to benefit people experiencing food insecurity throughout the state.

Gather

SUDOKU

Fun by the Numbers

Like puzzles? Then you’ll love sudoku. This mind-bending puzzle will have you hooked from the moment you square off, so sharpen your pencil and put your sudoku savvy to the test! Here’s How It Works: Sudoku puzzles are formatted as a 9x9 grid, broken down into nine 3x3 boxes. To solve a sudoku, the numbers 1 through 9 must fill each row, column and box. Each number can appear only once in each row, column and box. You can figure out the order in which the numbers will appear by using the numeric clues already provided in the boxes. The more numbers you name, the easier it gets to solve the

Plant of the parsley

Villa Park police used “stop sticks” to stop a fleeing suspect, yet the guy was able to keep driving (Villa Park Review, July 20 issue). He made it to I-290, and another stop stick was deployed. He then exited at North Avenue and made it into Northlake, turned around and got back on I-290, and finally stopped at York Street. Supposedly the first attempt deflated the rear passenger tire, and the second attempt popped the front passenger tire. While it is urgent to stop a fleeing driver, especially one who is traveling at such a high rate of speed (89 in a 25-mph zone), in my mind the erratic, unstable behavior of a vehicle with one or more flat tires could wreak havoc when the driver loses control and possibly weaves all over the road, putting other motorists in danger. I read where some police department fires a trajectory to attach a GPS-type device to an escaping vehicle, so that law enforcement can track the person down. That way, no high-speed chases are involved. I wonder if that would be a better investment than more stop sticks.

* * *

So now there are most likely more documents at two of Trump’s other Florida clubs. Great; another nail(s) in his coffin.

* * *

Al Gore was right about climate change 20 years ago, and conservatives laughed at him. Parts of Texas and Arizona are on the verge of being so hot as to be uninhabitable. Condos on the Florida coast are in severe danger, and once seawater gets into the fresh water tables, it’s game over down there. Stop fighting the Trumped-up woke wars and get serious about this.

Taking guns away from law-abiding citizens doesn’t stop criminals from having firearms. It just makes law-abiding citizens defenseless.

We should be thankful that our tornado warning system works! Many of us are watching cable or recordings and don’t even know the weather is bad because our programs are not interrupted. Thanks village officials. * * *

Over the past several years when energy producing plants, food processing plants, auto makers, etc. were laying off employees, closing down or moving to Mexico or China, where were the actors, writers and Hollywood people? I didn’t see them protesting or doing news conferences supporting Midwest workers. Now that they are on strike, we are

all supposed to cry for them. I hope Hollywood shuts down forever and all the pretty people have to get real jobs and live in the real world.

* * *

How annoying are those Liberty Mutual commercials? Especially the one with Doug’s son dressed in yellow with a fake mustache and that goofy emu. Certainly not on par with the Geico gecko ads.

* * *

The Joe Biden we Americans voted into the White House isn’t the same Joe Biden who is president. It looks like we all fell for the bait and switch trick. The big question is, where do we go from here to promote a more positive outcome until 2024?

* * *

Sadly, a contributor to Speak Out is incorrect indicating that the Supreme Court allows discrimination against LGBTQ. As I remember, the court ruled that a man’s religious freedom was in jeopardy. That was the ruling. The court is under intense continuous pressure to rule a certain way by politicians, their supporters and ideologues. The court interprets the Constitution, laws, and disputes, and is not a legislative body. But people being people must tag something, anything, with a title, label or category. Do you really want Democrats, Republicans and ideologues of various shades to submit judgments? Watch those who want to control the Supreme Court and their rulings. Our freedom will truly be in jeopardy. * * *

When they find cocaine in the White House, that’s one thing. When they can’t figure out how the cocaine got there is another. If this administration can’t control what goes on in the White House, it shows they can’t, or won’t, control what happens in the country, or internationally, that doesn’t fit their narrative. We need politicians who know right from wrong and good from bad for us patriotic Americans and loyal Democrats. Thank you. * * *

I can’t wait to vote Pritzker out, and if the people are smart, they’ll vote him out, too.

I see the town of Oak Brook is putting a police officer in each of their schools full time. Now I also know they only have two schools, but this is a great idea. This is something that our districts 44, 45, 88 and 87 should take a look at: putting one officer in every school every day with a squad car. Look at Israel. Israel has been doing this for years and maybe they

know a thing or two about security. Well, what do you say, school districts? What do you say? It’s one way to institute school safety; the safety of our children. We have a nurse in every school, don’t we? Why not have a police officer in every school? Let’s do it. Let’s protect our children. Thank you. * * *

I’m a senior citizen. If the grocery store chains would get rid of digital coupons it would be helpful. Please just advertise sale prices and be done with it. No one wants to use coupons anymore, and we don’t need

any more confusion at checkout.

Mariano’s in Lombard needs new workable carts and have small carts available as the Wheaton store does. Thank you.

I have to say something about a tweet I saw on the news from Ilhan Omar. Here’s her tweet: “The earth just broke the record for the hottest day in 120,000 years. In fact, we broke it on three separate days. National climate emergency now.” So temperature records have been kept over the last 120,000 years? That’s a new one on me. How did they record

temperatures 120,000 years ago if the first thermometer wasn’t invented until 1593 by Galileo and the first modern thermometer wasn’t invented until 1714 by Gabriel Fahrenheit? Did some Neanderthals keep temperature records? I’m sure the fact checkers from the Washington Post let her get away with this nonsense because it fits the narrative of the climate change alarmists. The most troubling thing to me is how many low-IQ voters put someone like Ilhan Omar into office three times. (Editor’s note: Omar is a U.S. Representative from Minnesota).

Trinity Christian Nursery School has open enrollment for upcoming term

Trinity Christian Nursery School, located within Trinity Lutheran Church of Villa Park (300 Ardmore Ave.), has open enrollment going on now for the upcoming term.

Each day includes playtime, group time, Bible stories, snacks and learning centers. The school also has a new director, who will be starting in a few weeks.

Contact the school’s director for registration at: registrartcns@gmail.com or call 630-833-1080 to learn more about the school.

New nursery school director

Trinity Lutheran Church welcomes its new nursery school director, Latasha Greene. She can be contacted for a tour and registration to the nursery

school at 630-833-1080.

Greene is a mother of two adult children. She received her bachelor’s degree in early childhood education and care from Kendall College in Chicago, and received her master’s in education from Concordia University Portland Ore. She has worked in the field of education since 2006.

Greene has taken her creativity from being an educator and began an event decorating business which is her second passion (education being her first). She is a member of the But God Ministries church in Wheaton. She enjoys spending time with her family, serving at church and home do-it-yourself projects. Greene lives by the fact that she can do all things through Christ who strengthens her.

Bond set at $750,000 for young man charged with armed robbery

DuPage County State’s Attorney Robert Berlin and Downers Grove Chief of Police Michael DeVries have announced that bond has been set for a Downers Grove man accused of robbing at gunpoint a man of three Summer Smash concert wristband tickets.

Jordan Daurham, 20, appeared at a bond hearing, where Judge Mia McPherson set bond at $750,000, with 10 percent to apply.

Daurham is charged with one count of armed robbery (Class X felony), one count of possession of a stolen motor vehicle (Class 2 felony) and one count of aggravated unlawful use of a weapon (Class 4 felony).

It is alleged that on June 24, Daurham arranged with his victim over Snapchat to meet for the purpose

of Daurham selling the victim three wristband tickets to the upcoming Summer Smash concert for $100 each. It is alleged that the victim met Daurham near the intersection of Powell Street and Norfolk Avenue later that day to complete the transaction.

It is further alleged that Daurham arrived at the location at approximately 2 p.m. in a black Hyundai Sonata that was reported stolen out of Chicago on June 20. It is alleged that the victim gave Daurham $300 for the three wristband tickets and Daurham handed the wristband tickets to the victim. It is alleged that after Daurham handed the wristband tickets to the victim, Daurham pulled out a black Glock handgun with an extended magazine and pointed it at the victim.

It is alleged that Daurham demanded the wristband tickets back from the victim and then fled the scene in the Sonata. Through the course of their investigation into the

How Speak Out works

matter, Downers Grove police identified Daurham as a suspect. On July 19, officers with the Downers Grove Police Department located Daurham outside his apartment. It is alleged that when officers commanded Daurham to stop walking, he instead began running from officers. After a brief foot pursuit, officers took Daurham into custody. When Daurham was arrested he was found to be in possession of a Black P80 9mm handgun with an extended magazine that contained thirteen rounds of ammunition.

“The allegation that in a residential neighborhood, just a block away from a high school, Mr. Daurham pulled out a loaded weapon and robbed a man at gunpoint is shocking,” Berlin said. “This type of violent gun crime will not be tolerated in DuPage County and will be met with the full force and effect of the law.”

Daurham’s next court appearance is scheduled Aug. 18 for arraignment in front of Judge McPherson.

Windows

APARTMENT FOR RENT

Faith United Methodist Church (FUMC) Lombard is Renting Tables for Community Outdoor Garage Sale, Saturday, August 5, 2023

Cost per table is $30. Hours of operation will be 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Location of sale will be at 815 South Finley Rd., Lombard 60148. First come, first serve table location on the very spacious lawn. All items must be removed at the end of the sale. Refreshments will be available for purchase. Interested sellers contact Jean at 630-877-6011 for further details. 439930

Announcements

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

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

Burial Needs

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

PUBLISHER’S NOTICE All real estate advertising in this newspaper is subject to the Fair Housing Act which makes it illegal to advertise any preference, limitation or discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, disability, familiar/ status or national origin, or an intention to make any such preference, limitation or discrimination. Familial status includes children under the age of 18 living with parents or legal custodians, pregnant women and people securing custody of children under 18. This newspaper will not knowingly accept any advertising for real estate which is in violation of the law. Our readers are hereby informed that all dwellings advertised in this newspaper are available on an equal opportunity basis. To complain of discrimination call HUD toll-free at 1-900-669-9777.

Wood Dale man accused of intentionally striking off-duty Cook County Sheriff’s Deputy with his car

DuPage County State’s Attorney

ed battery (Class 3 felony).

Eliaz Lopez

Robert Berlin and Itasca Director of Police Robert O’Connor have announced that bond has been set for a Wood Dale man accused of intentionally striking an off-duty Cook County Sheriff’s Deputy with his car.

Eliaz Lopez, 18, appeared at a bond hearing where Judge Mia McPherson set bond at $2 million with 10 percent to apply. Lopez is charged with one count of attempted murder of a police officer (Class X felony), two counts of aggravated battery to a police officer (Class 2 felony), one count of leaving the scene of an accident involving personal injury (Class 2 felony) and two counts of aggravat-

On July 12 at approximately 12:41 a.m., an Itasca police officer responded to a call of a person being struck by a vehicle in the 300 block of N. Elm St. Following an investigation into the matter, it is alleged that the victim, an off duty, Cook County deputy sheriff in full uniform, had just parked his patrol vehicle on Elm Street when he heard a loud Dodge Challenger approximately 60 yards away.

It is alleged that the deputy shined his flashlight in the vehicle’s direction at which time the Challenger revved its engine and drove directly at the deputy, striking him and causing him to go on the hood of the car.

It is further alleged that while the deputy was on the hood of the Challenger, the Challenger accelerated.

It is alleged that after approximately three seconds, the deputy jumped

off the Challenger at which time the vehicle fled the scene. The victim was transported to a local hospital where he received medical treatment and was released later that day. Through the course of their investigation, authorities identified Lopez as a suspect in the case. He was taken into custody on July 12 from his residence in Wood Dale.

“The allegations that Mr. Lopez intentionally drove his vehicle directly at a uniformed deputy, striking him with his vehicle, and continued to accelerate with the deputy on the hood of the vehicle are outrageous,” Berlin said. “The type of blatant attack on law enforcement alleged in this case will be vigorously prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law. We are all thankful that the deputy involved in this incident was not seriously injured.”

“The perseverance and attention

In Print and Online Every Thursday

The Lombardian, Villa Park Review, Addison Independent & Bensenville Independent

Your hometown newspaper is now available in both print and online versions. The printed newspaper is delivered by the post office every Thursday for only $45 for a full year. A digital eSubscription will also be available for only $35 per year and can be read on a computer, laptop, or tablet. The eSubscription is a PDF copy of the print version that will be available online every Thursday. A link to the online newspaper will be emailed to you every week.

To order an online eSubscription or print home delivery by mail, please call 630.834-8244 or mail the coupon below.

___ Yes. Please send the print version of the newspaper by mail at the special rate of $45 for a full year. ___ Yes. Please send me an eSubscription with a weekly email link for only $35 per year. Enclosed is my check for $35.

to details by Itasca Detectives Serio and Langlo were paramount in securing the charges brought forth by the DuPage County State’s Attorney’s

Office,” O’Connor said. Lopez’s next court appearance is scheduled Aug. 11 for arraignment in front of Judge McPherson.

Oboist Zachary Allen in concert

Summer Music at Bethel series continues

Summer Music at Bethel concert series has announced that 18-year-old oboe player Zachary Allen will perform in concert on Friday, Aug. 4 at 7 p.m. at Bethel United Church of Christ in Elmhurst. Artistic director of the concert series Jeffrey Panko will accompany him on the piano.

The concert program will include Deep River Sonata, Samuel Coleridge-Taylor; Legende Pastorale, Benjamin Godard; Four Personalities, Alyssa Morris; and Incantation and Dance, William Grant Still.

In June, Zachary was a featured in a solo recital for 98.7 WFMT’s Saturday morning Introductions program, where he has previously been featured as principal oboist of the Chicago Youth Symphony Orchestra and a member of the Jubilee Wind Quintet.

Zachary is an active volunteer and gives his time generously to several arts related nonprofit organizations. He gives private online oboe instruction to school aged children through the Do Re Mi Project. Zachary also serves on the Teen Advisory Council for Urban Gateways’ Teen Arts Pass Program. He performs private online ZOOM concerts for seniors through the Music Institute of Chicago’s Music Pen Pal program, and more. In addition to music, Zachary enjoys cycling, volleyball and traveling.

This fall, Zachary will be attending Oberlin College & Conservatory to study oboe performance with Robert Walters.

The concert will last approximately one hour with one short intermission. Bethel summer concerts are non-ticketed events. A freewill donation will be taken at the door.

Bethel United Church of Christ is located at 315 East St. Charles Road in Elmhurst.

The church is accessible and parking is free. Enter through Sandburg Middle School from St. Charles Road, or from Huntington off Poplar Street.

Answers

2 CROSSWORD

Check

Zachary Allen

FALL BASEBALL - and - SOFTBALL REGISTRATIONS

Elmhurst Youth Baseball & EYB Cougars Softball House League registration is NOW OPEN!

The Fall Baseball and Softball Leagues are a non-competitive league focused on training and player development. It is a 5 or 6 week program scheduled to start in September and conclude in October with all practices and games taking place on the weekends.

Games are scheduled for each Saturday with practice prior to each game. If there is a rain-out then the game/practice may be rescheduled for Sunday.

Elmhurst Youth Baseball is open to boys and girls ages 4 to 19.

The EYB Cougars softball program is open to girls ages 4 to 14. Fall ball allows for players to begin practicing and playing in divisions that they may qualify for in the following Spring season or to continue their development in the divisions they currently compete.

REGISTRATION FOR THE FALL BALL SEASON IS OPEN!

Register NOW to be a part of the fastest growing baseball & softball program in the Western Suburbs! 440622

Register at eybaseball.org