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Kids join Petty Cash performers; make-up concert this Thursday

Petty Cash Band with singer Andrea Pokrefke played on Thursday, July 20 as part of the Music at the Gazebo concert summer series. Petty Cash Band brought some great beats to Wild Meadows Trace and recruited some new band members from the crowd. Andrea did an amazing job giving instruments to the kids to get them involved. The kids loved it and the parents did too, as many got out of their chairs

to get some photos and capture the moment. The next concert for Music at the Gazebo is Thursday, July 27, featuring Lake Effect. This is a makeup concert from the Thursday, July 13 concert that was cancelled due to tornado warnings. Lake Effect will be playing from 6:30-8:30 p.m. by the Gazebo. Come out and join the summer fun on Spring Road! For more information go to springroad.com.

UP railroad tracks at Poplar closed through Aug. 4

Last week, the City of Elmhurst announced that Union Pacific Railroad had issued a notification that they would be closing the Poplar Avenue crossing for about 10

days. The tracks were closed on Wednesday, July 26 and expect to reopen on or about Friday, Aug. 4.

The City explained that the closure is

needed for a full crossing renewal affecting all three existing railroad tracks.

A detour has been set up, using the Arlington Avenue/Haven Road crossing to the

west. Advanced warning signage has been placed at the Poplar Avenue crossing alerting the public of the closure.

Winner, winner

Pictured is Jay Patel, manager of Williams Liquors on south York St. in Elmhurst, where a $1 million Powerball Jackpot ticket was sold last week. Patel was delighted to have sold the prize-winning ticket, especially because the store

stands to receive a portion of the money. He said the following day, there were people lined up out front to purchase lottery tickets – maybe the good luck of the location will rub off.

elmhursT IndependenT

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City honors ‘Boys State’ participants

At the Elmhurst City Council meeting held Monday, July 17, Mayor Scott Levin recognized three local young men for their participation at this year’s American Legion “Boys State” Youth Camp. Each participant was presented with a mayoral proclamation by Mayor Levin.

The Boys State program is among the most respected and selective educational programs of government instruction for U.S. high school students. This camp is held the summer prior to a student’s senior year of high school. The effort to honor these boys was brought to the mayor’s attention by newly elected 7th Ward Alderman Rex Irby, whose ward includes the Elmhurst American Legion Post THB 187.

Each student currently attends York High School and will be seniors this fall. Elmhurst American Legion Post THB 187 sponsored the associated costs for the boys to attend, which occurred on the campus of Eastern Illinois University. This effort was coordinated by Elmhurst American Legion member Eric Pulia, who is an Army and Air Force veteran.

“Kids need a positive outlet in today’s world, especially having just lived through the social isolation of the COVID-19 Pandemic,” he said.

First mosquitoes test positive for West Nile virus in DuPage County

The DuPage County Health Department (DCHD) has confirmed the first mosquito batches to test positive for West Nile virus this year in DuPage County. The first WNV-positive pools of mosquitoes were collected on July 5 in Medinah, Wheaton and Wood Dale.

County health officials encourage residents to take steps to protect themselves from mosquito bites and the risk of contracting WNV. Last year, the first mosquitoes to test positive for West Nile virus were collected on May 24 in Roselle.

“This summer, take action to protect yourself and your family from West Nile virus by preventing mosquito bites,” said Adam Forker, DuPage County Health Department executive director. “Fight the Bite when spending time outdoors by using insect repellent, draining standing water, and limiting outdoor exposure from dusk to dawn.”

This year, there have been no reported human cases of WNV in DuPage County to date. However, the identification of positive mosquito pools is associated with an increased risk of WNV in people. Additionally, the recent hot, dry weather is an ideal environment for mosquitoes (primarily Culex mosquitoes) that spread WNV.

To Fight the Bite this summer, practice the “4 Ds of Defense”:

See VIRUS, Page 5

SUBMITTED PHOTO Elmhurst Independent

At a recent City Council meeting, Mayor Scott Levin (far right) presented York High School students Joshua Wilson, Billy Kenny and Eddie Ferguson with mayoral proclamations to honor their participation in the American Legion’s Boys State Youth Camp. The Elmhurst American Legion Post THB 187 sponsored the associated costs for the boys to attend. The Boys State program is considered among the most respected and selective educational programs of government instruction for U.S. high school students.

“This camp allows the participants to meet other high school juniors from around the state, compete for scholarships, and improve their social skills as they prepare for college.”

This is an all-expenses paid experience and activities include legislative sessions, court proceedings, law-enforcement presentations, assemblies, bands, choruses and recreational programs. These programs teach participants to become knowledgeable of the democratic process and how the U.S. republic form of government works at the state and national levels. They also complete a

mock student government with campus wide elections for governor.

Graduating from either camp is the equivalent of attaining Eagle Scout for college applications.

Boys State programs vary from state to state but each adheres to the same basic concept: teaching government from the city to the state level. Two participants from each Boys State program are selected to go on and participate as Senators at Boys Nation in Washington DC.

Former President Bill Clinton is an alumnus of Boys State (Arkansas) and was elected senator as a youth

and had the opportunity to meet President John F. Kennedy.

All participants are also eligible to compete for a many number of scholarships including the Samsung Scholarship, the Essay Scholarship and the Oration Scholarship.

The sister program entitled “Girls State” is organized by the American Legion Auxiliary. It is also held at Eastern Illinois University each year. Unfortunately, the Elmhurst American Legion Auxiliary were unable to find an interested participant this year but are hopeful for subsequent years.

Family Superhero Day at EAM

Families were invited to the Elmhurst Art Museum on Saturday, June 22 to design a superhero inspired by the works found in the museum’s current exhibition, Marvelocity: The Art of Alex Ross. Attendees made their own illustrations and decided what superpowers their creation should have. Pictured here with their parents are (clockwise from left): Jacob, 5, Henry, 10 and Eleanor, 8. Jacob’s superhero could shoot rainbows out of his hands, while Eleanor’s “Animal Adventurer” has the super-ability to talk to animals.

DEE LONGFELLOW PHOTO Elmhurst Independent

Final weekend for ‘Superheroes in Wilder Park’

In tandem with its Marvelocity: The Art of Alex Ross exhibition, the Elmhurst Art Museum commissioned the outdoor public art installation Superheroes in Wilder Park that opened Saturday, May 6 in Wilder Park. If you haven’t seen it, make plans now because the exhibition will only remain on display through Monday, July 31. The Superheroes public exhibit features eight life-sized sculptures made by eight individuals and four community groups led by practiced teaching artists.

Robert Apolinar and four Elmhurst University students worked on one of the pieces, which proved interesting since Apolinar is a toy designer and in fact, has designed several “Joyful Dinner” toys for that hamburger restaurant with the clown mascot.

Elmhurst artist and instructor John Nester helped a group of Glenbard North students to create the superheroes “Nike the Defender” and “Guardian, the winged Goddess.”

The students wanted to share the fact that the winged Goddess appears on all medals awarded to high school students by the state of Illinois.

Vanessa Garza of Studio Nez constructed “Fruit and Stars, Superhero Cereals,” while Dave Pryor presented “The Canine Crusader.” Esmeralda Bolivar and the Elmhurst Pride Collective created the superhero, “Iridescent.”

Rafael Blanco, a native of Spain who worked on the Elmhurst public mural on the north side of the University’s athletic building where it is visible from the train, displayed “Captain Elmhurst,” which he calls “a humorous response to his own American assimilation.”

Although the outdoor exhibit ends after the weekend, the Marvelocity: The Art of Alex Ross exhibition will remain at the Elmhurst Art Museum through Sunday, Aug. 20. For more information, visit elmhurstartmuseum.org.

This is the Canine Crusader, a superhero created by artist Dave Pryor, one of eight that are on display in Wilder Park through Monday, July 31. If you haven’t seen it, this weekend will be the last chance, although the Elmhurst Art Museum’s current exhibition Marvelocity: The Art of Alex Ross, will remain through Sunday, Aug. 20.

(Continued from page 4)

• Drain: Drain those items that collect standing water around your home, yard, or business. Scrub and refill pet water dishes and birdbaths regularly.

• Defend: Use an insect repellent containing DEET when outdoors and reapply according to directions.

• Dress: Wear long pants, long sleeves, and closed-toe shoes when outside to cover the skin.

• Dusk to dawn: Wear repellent

outdoors during these prime times for mosquito activity.

Residents may also report dead birds on the health department’s website. Dead birds can often be an early sign of the presence of WNV in the environment. DCHD’s Personal Protection Index (PPI) widget provides residents with a real-time snapshot of WNV activity in the county, which ranges from zero to three, zero meaning there is no risk, and three

announcing a high level of risk with multiple confirmed human cases of WNV.

The widget is based on guidance from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the Association of State and Territorial Health Officials.

Residents will be able to see the PPI widget by visiting https://www.dupagehealth.org/243/Personal-Protection-Index

Many community partners, includ-

Robert Apolinar made this Superhero which has been part of the outdoor public art installation in Wilder Park that coincides with the Elmhurst Art Museum’s current exhibition Marvelocity: The Art of Alex Ross. While the Wilder Park exhibit will end Monday July 31, the exhibition at the museum remains through Sunday, Aug.

ing townships, municipalities, and park districts, have the PPI widget posted to their homepages. Residents who click on the widget will be linked to the Health Department’s “Fight the Bite” page for prevention tips.

The health department monitors WNV activity by collecting and testing mosquitoes in traps located throughout the county. The PPI widget is updated by 3 p.m. each Wednesday throughout the WNV season. These

weekly updates will be determined by the health department’s vector-borne disease surveillance experts. WNV activity generally decreases in the fall when cooler temperatures arrive and especially after the first frost of the season. Additional statewide information and data can be found at the Illinois Department of Public Health’s West Nile virus website and the West Nile virus dashboard.

ARCHIVE PHOTOS Elmhurst Independent

20.

Police beat

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

Criminal damage, criminal trespassing

July 17

A victim in the 200 block of E. Crescent reported a lawn statue located near the front door of his residence was damaged. The victim reviewed video footage which shows an unknown male suspect attempting to take control of his dog and then reach towards the statue before walking away.

DUI, DUI-drugs, transportation of open alcohol, possession of open alcohol, consumption of alcohol by a minor

July 16

Shruthi Ram, 26, of San Jose, Calif., was charged with DUI, possession of open alcohol, improper lane usage and speeding subsequent to a traffic stop near Berteau and North at 12:53 a.m.

Alberto Choc Sotz, 36, of Lewisville, Texas, was charged with improper lane usage, DUI, no valid license and no insurance subsequent to a traffic stop near I-290 and York at 4:15 a.m.

July 14

Michael Harris McKean, 67, of Elmhurst, was issued a citation for possession of liquor in public near York and Vallette at 9:13 p.m. Police said officers responded to the above location for the report of an intoxicated subject. Upon arrival, police said McKean was located standing in the parking lot of a liquor store, swaying back and forth.

Domestic battery, domestic incident, disorderly conduct, disturbance

July 19

A 45-year-old Elmhurst woman was charged with domestic battery which causes bodily harm and domestic battery by making physical contact in the 300 block of E. St. Charles at 12:02 a.m. Police said the suspect was intoxicated and struck the victim.

July 13

Darren J. Pasnik, 50, of Elmhurst, was charged with disorderly conduct, obstructing identification and served with a no-trespass notice in the 500 block of Spring at 9:21 p.m. According to police, a victim related he was alarmed as Pasnik yelled at and threatened him by screaming “Gun, gun, gun!” and then ran out of the store. Police said officers located Pasnik, who attempted to walk away before he could be identified.

A 28-year-old Elmhurst man was charged with domestic battery in the 800 block of N. York at 8:41 a.m. According to police, a vic-

CALL 800-222-TIPS

tim related that during a verbal argument, the suspect struck the victim.

A complainant in the 900 block of Kirk told police he was involved in a verbal argument with his girlfriend when she threw her phone and a vase. No injuries were observed. The suspect left the residence for the day.

Aggravated fleeing and eluding

July 16

Hulton Harold Ware, 29, of Bensenville, was charged with aggravated fleeing and eluding, obstructing identification, operating a vehicle with revoked suspended/revoked registration, driving with license revoked, speeding, disregarding a traffic control device and no insurance subsequent to a traffic stop near Grand and Lake at 9:55 a.m.

Harassment, threats

May 29-July 14

A complainant in the 100 block of Fellows reported he received numerous unwanted phone calls and text messages from an ex-girlfriend between the above dates. The reporting officer made contact with the suspect, who was advised to cease all communication with the complainant.

July 2

A complainant in the 200 block of E. Wrightwood told police at 9:45 p.m. she has received numerous unwanted friend requests on Snapchat from a former friend. The complainant advised she filed a police report a few years prior regarding the same suspect harassing her. The reporting officer will contact the suspect and advise her not to have any further contact with the complainant.

Identity theft, fraud

According to information provided by the Elmhurst Police Department, police reported three incidents of identity theft or fraud.

Leaving the scene

July 18

Anthony Amerio, 44, of Plainfield, was charged with leaving the scene of a property damage accident, improper lane usage and no registration displayed near Lake and Walnut at 10:50 p.m. Police said that subsequent to a single vehicle crash, officers located a heavily damaged vehicle near the above location. According to police, the driver fled the scene on foot but was located at his residence.

Possession of cannabis in a vehicle

According to information provided last week by the Elmhurst Police Department, police reported two incidents of possession of

cannabis by either the driver of a vehicle or a passenger: Laurence Walker, 34, of Chicago, near York and Lexington at 1:46 a.m. July 19; and Jaysen Morales Jr., 25, of Chicago, near Arlington and St. Charles at 9:16 p.m. July 19 (possession of cannabis in excess of 30 grams).

Prowling

July 14

Police said a resident in the 300 block of N. Howard called at around 12:42 a.m. and reported observing people walking around his property via Ring cameras. The suspects— identified as Mohammed Z. Khan, 31, of Bloomingdale, and Abdullah M. Khaja, 22, of Skokie—were located and issued citations for prowling.

Suspicious incident

July 14

While on patrol near Lake and I-290 at 8:19 p.m., an unknown vehicle threw a firework at a reporting officer’s marked squad car. The vehicle was last seen westbound on Lake. An investigation is pending.

Theft or burglary /retail theft/forgery/deceptive practice/obstruction/ robbery

July 13

A victim told police an unknown suspect removed a package from his apartment’s lobby in the 300 block of S. West at 6:50 p.m.

Retail theft

July 15

A complainant at a food store in the 200

block of S. Route 83 told police that an unknown suspect described as an Hispanic male in his late teens or 20s posing as an Amazon delivery driver stole three Amazon Fresh orders from the store. An investigation is pending

July 14

Police said subsequent to a retail theft at a store in the 900 block of S. York, the offending vehicle was located in the store parking lot. The reporting officer observed four suspects—three black females and one black male—walking to the vehicle, concealing what looked like a bottle of alcohol. Upon making contact with the suspects, they entered the vehicle in an attempt to flee and struck the front of the officer’s squad car. The suspects fled the scene eastbound Butterfield Road. The vehicle was recovered on July 17. An investigation is pending.

July 12

Saba Giunashvili, 31, and Imeda Usanetashvili, 42, both of Brooklyn, N.Y., were charged with felony retail theft at a store in the 300 block of S. Route 83 at 4:40 p.m. A complainant told police that the suspects allegedly concealed cologne and cosmetics and left the store without paying for the merchandise.

Violation of an order of protection

Warrant arrest

July 15

Police said a complainant in the 700 block of N. Howard related he currently has an order of protection against the suspect. He believes the suspect has driven past his house several times which violates the order of protection. The suspect denied driving past the house. The complainant was instructed to contact police if there is another occurrence.

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,” AFSUSA 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

Elmhurst University fundraising campaign closes with record success

Response to 150th anniversary drive ‘historic,’ brings in $55.3 million

Elmhurst University recently completed its most successful fundraising campaign in institutional history, raising more than $55.3 million to create and enhance opportunities for current and future University students.

After exceeding its $50 million goal this past fall, Elmhurst 150: The Campaign for Elmhurst University continued to gain philanthropic support from alumni, faculty and staff; parents and students; and governmental, corporate and other entities, until its conclusion on June 30.

The campaign funds will create scholarships and academic opportunities; facilitate construction of a new health sciences building and renovations to campus athletic and recreational facilities; and bolster the University’s long-term financial security by strengthening the endowment.

A stronger Elmhurst University endowment provides an increased level of perpetual financial support in strategic and critical areas of the institution, a necessity for the growth of current and future generations of Bluejay students, faculty and staff.

“Elmhurst 150 was a resounding success,” said Elmhurst University president Troy D. VanAken. “After reaching our goal nine months early, we sustained that momentum all the way to the end of this comprehensive campaign. We are gratified to see such a strong commitment to our students and the quality of their educational experience.”

President VanAken announced the public phase of the campaign on Dec. 6, 2021, during the University’s 150th anniversary Founders Day celebrations.

The response was historic. In all, the University received more than 20,000 individual gifts from across the country and around the world. More than 3,400 donors made their first gift during the campaign. The University also saw a notable increase in the number of alumni donors.

Several major gifts were received through planned-giving commitments as well as direct contributions, noted Andrew Knap, vice president for institutional advancement.

“These gifts will enhance the student experience immediately and over the long term by relieving financial burdens, expanding career and academic services, and enabling more students to participate in meaningful enrichment activities such as studying abroad, conducting research and traveling to national conferences and seminars,” he said.

June 30 marked not only the close of the Elmhurst 150 campaign but also the University’s third consecutive year of record fundraising.

During the 2023 fiscal year (July 1, 2022, through June 30, 2023), Elmhurst raised more than $10.4 million, the most ever raised in one year by

the institution and $300,000 more than the previous fiscal year.

Plans already in motion

Funds from the campaign already are making a significant impact:

• Gifts to the Annual Fund, which provides direct support to Elmhurst students and their education, will create scholarships and help to offset operational and programming costs.

• The Health Sciences Initiative Fund will facilitate the construction

of a new building that will bring Elmhurst’s nursing, public health, occupational therapy and communication sciences and disorders programs under one roof, creating greater opportunities for collaboration and innovation. Groundbreaking on the new building is expected to take place in the fall.

• Thousands of students, coaches, spectators and community members will enjoy an enhanced experience as the University completes improve-

ments to Langhorst Field and other athletic and recreational facilities on campus. Renovations to R.A. Faganel Hall are finished, and replacement of the turf field and track at Langhorst Field will be completed later this summer.

• Contributions to the University’s endowment and restricted funds represent an investment in the University’s long-term financial stability and are the foundations upon which student success is built. Growth in these

funds supports endowed student scholarships, programs, faculty and staff positions, and other purposes.

“The extraordinary outcome of the Elmhurst 150 campaign reflects the active and growing engagement of the entire Elmhurst University community,” VanAken said. “The campaign was a pivotal moment for our University, but the momentum continues and will drive us to achieve even more for our students in the years to come.”

ELMHURST UNIVERSITY PHOTO Elmhurst Independent

facing

Troy D. VanAken

Viewpoint

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.

Letter to the editor

thanks community for book sale success

Once again the community of Elmhurst has helped out tremendously with their book donations for the AAUW Used Book Sale! The community has made a difference by donating their books and purchasing others.

Our Elmhurst AAUW (American Association of University Women) branch is grateful for your donations. By giving your books you have provided community members with reasonably priced books, funded scholarships to assist with educational expenses, kept books out of landfills, and provided funds that work toward achieving

Slices of life

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.

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.

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.

equity for all.

There are so many to thank. The Elmhurst Public Library once again shared their alcove space for our donation bin, as did Courts Plus. This year we are most grateful to Christ United Methodist Church for allowing us to rent space when District 205 had no space available. Pastor Fu and their trustees made us feel welcome as we moved to a new venue. First United Methodist Church loaned us extra tables which enabled us to display more books. Members of the York football

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

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

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.

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:

Elmhurst

The art of Alex Ross

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 encour-

age 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

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

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

Elmhurst Tang Soo Do competes in world championship

Masters Michael and Holly Inoshita of Elmhurst Tang Soo

Do have had a long-standing relationship with Latin America, teaching clinics and supporting events for the past 20 years.

Due to that enduring relationship Elmhurst Tang Soo Do was invited to compete in the World Tang Soo Do Caribbean Championships in Costa Rica on Saturday, July 15.

The team consisted of four black belt members and one brown belt, all of whom competed with 400+ participants from throughout the Caribbean and Latin America. Elmhurst Tang Soo Do competed against participants from Aruba, Puerto Rico, Panama, Costa Rica, Mexico, and Argentina.

The results of the competition are as follows:

Luc Pesenti, adult male, 3rd degree Black Belt Division, took 1st in forms, 1st in weapons and 2nd in sparring;

Connor Campbell, adult male, 3rd degree Black Belt Division, placed 3rd in forms, and Co-3rd in sparring;

Kyle Shafer, adult male, 3rd degree Black Belt Division, attained 3rd in weapons, Co-3rd in sparring;

Jade Inoshita, adult female, 3rd degree Black Belt Division, achieved 2nd in forms, 2nd in weapons, 2nd in sparring; and, Emma Davey, adult female, Brown Belt Division, earned 1st in weapons, 2nd in forms and 3rd in sparring.

SUBMITTED PHOTOS Elmhurst Independent Jade Inoshita and Conor Campbell, both 3rd degree Black Belts, are all smiles after their competitions in the World Tang Soo Do Caribbean Championships in Costa Rica. Inoshita took 2nd in forms, in weapons and in sparring. Campbell placed 3rd in forms, and Co-3rd in sparring.

Emma Davey, a Brown Belt, talks with Grand Master William Strong after her competition. Davey earned 1st in weapons, 2nd in forms and 3rd in sparring.

Real estate/Business

Inaugural Lifelong Learning Institute deemed successful

The Rocky Mountains have long been a source of inspiration for artists, some using a brush, others a guitar. Those same mountains provide a backdrop for an annual Conference on World Affairs at the University of Colorado, Boulder. And that, in turn, provided some inspiration for an innovative pilot program held in mid-July right here in Elmhurst.

Several years ago, longtime community members Paul and Laura Koch attended this worldwide Conference while their son Kyle attended CU-Boulder. Attendees from around the world, both young and old, are treated to educational and thought-provoking lectures on various relevant topics, from some of the most credentialed and recognized experts on the Globe. The Kochs enjoyed the Conference so much, they attended the next year.

The Kochs shared their enjoyment of the Conference with their friends the Keltys and the Reicherts over dinner one evening and it sparked an interesting idea - Why couldn’t the Elmhurst community host a multi-evening summer program - educating adult members of the greater community on a variety of interesting topics, while providing a chance to discuss what they’d learned with fellow attendees?

Local institutions could expose community members to their facilities. Attendees in turn could learn some inside information about these institutions which help make the greater Elmhurst community vibrant.

The seed was planted and these friends were excited to try to put such a local program together. Then,

See INSTITUTE, Page 13

program presentation on the second evening of the Elmhurst Lifelong Learning Summer Institute on Tuesday, July 18. The program included Chatauqua: The History of Lifelong Learning, and From Prairie to Tree Town: Tales of Old Elmhurst. “I thought I knew my Elmhurst history pretty well,” said former four-term Elmhurst Mayor Tom Marcucci who served as the Program’s host each evening. “I did not know the full history of the Chatauquas, which I found very interesting.”

SUBMITTED PHOTO Elmhurst Independent Elmhurst History Museum executive director Dave Oberg gave a

Community calendar

Monday, July 31

This is the last day to view the outdoor exhibition of life-sized Superheroes in Wilder Park, appearing in conjunction with the Marvelocity; The Art of Alex Ross exhibit currently on display at the Elmhurst Art Museum. The Park closes at dusk.

Friday, Aug. 4

Summer Music at Bethel presents 18-year-old oboist Zachary Allen performing in concert at 7 p.m. at Bethel United Church of Christ, 315 E. St. Charles Rd. He will be accompanied by artistic director Jeffrey Panko. No tickets necessary, free will offering. The church is accessible and parking is free. Enter through Sandburg Middle School from St. Chas. Rd. or from Huntington off Poplar.

Monday, Aug. 7

From 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., the Elmhurst History Museum invites families to Museum Maker Monday for a free event. Drop in on select Mondays throughout the summer for free, family-friendly activities. Kids and caregivers can explore exhibits on a day reserved just for families, plus play games, and make a travel-themed craft (while supplies last). Bring a picnic to enjoy outdoors on the museum grounds (weather permitting). Appropriate for elementary age children accompanied by an adult, no registration required. Craft project changes each month. Info: elmhursthistory.org.

Saturday, Aug. 12

From 1-4 p.m., the Elmhurst Art Museum is presenting Family Day:

Marvel-ous Comic Creations. Kids are invited to discover the power of storytelling at the museum through storyboard character design and illustration. Draw and write a story like Alex Ross to discover your own voice through comic book creations. EAM members are free. Advance admission ticket required for non-members, timed tickets will be issued for entry. Info: elmhurstartmuseum.org or 630-834-0202.

Sunday, Aug. 13

At 2 p.m., the Elmhurst History Museum presents The World’s Most Traveled Man: Elmhurst’s Own J. Hart Rosdail. Join EHM Curator of Collections Dan Lund for a lecture about long-time Elmhurst resident and educator J. Hart Rosdail and his quest to become the “World’s Most Traveled Man.” Over the span of four decades, Rosdail’s frequent travels spanned the globe as he collected souvenirs and passport stamps on the way to a Guinness Book of World Records title for the most countries ever visited, many via his trusted bicycle named Jacqueline. FREE to Members, $5 non-Members. Reservations required. Info: elmhursthistory.org.

Sunday, Aug. 20

Beginning at 11 a.m., the Elmhurst History Museum presents the History o Wheels Bike Tour. Bicyclists are invited to join a two-wheeled tour of Elmhurst led by members of the Elmhurst Bicycle Club. Visit local historical spots of interest while pedaling Elmhurst’s streets and learn about local history from the Elmhurst History Museum staff. Approximate-

ly 1.5 hours duration. Appropriate for ages 10+ accompanied by an adult. Helmets and reservations are required. Fee: $5 per person. Info: elmhursthistory.org.

Elmhurst Farmers Market

Every Wednesday from now through October, the Elmhurst Farmers Market will be open from 7 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the municipal lot on Vallette St., one half block east of York St. Fresh fruits, vegetables, flowers, honey, cheese, bread, hummus, much more. Info: elmhurstfarmersmarket. com.

Elmhurst History Museum

A new exhibit, The Bicycle: Two Wheels to Adventure, is currently on display through Sept. 17. Learn about the many ways this 19th-century invention significantly impacted Chicagoland manufacturing, transportation, and infrastructure, and how the bicycle redefined an era of newfound leisure and independence. Info: elmhursthistory.org or call 630833-1457.

Elmhurst Art Museum

Open now and remaining through Sunday, Aug. 20, Marvelocity; The Art of Alex Ross is on display at the Elmhurst Art Museum.

LAST WEEKEND: Don’t miss the related exhibit in Wilder Park, which has life-sized Superheroes created by various artists. They will remain through July 31. The Elmhurst Art Guild’s Inspired by Warhol opened Sunday, June 11 and will remain through Friday, July 28. Info: elmhurstartmuseum.org or 630-834-0202.

• Institute

(Continued from page 12)

the infamous Coronavirus reared its ugly head.

Fast forward to early 2023, and the three couples decided to give it a go again. They got together and created a rough program outline. They brainstormed about relevant topics, locations, and program dates. The Program needed a name -- the Elmhurst Lifelong Learning Summer Institute was born.

With help from Dr. Larry Carroll, a well-known, long-time business professor at Elmhurst University, Dave Oberg, executive director of the Elmhurst History Museum, and Susan Tyburski, executive director of the Elmhurst Hospital Foundation, the planning began.

On Monday, July 17, the Inaugural Elmhurst Lifelong Learning Summer Institute kicked off with approximately 60 participants at the Elmhurst History Museum. Each evening’s program featured a different subject and was held at a different venue, with former four-term Elmhurst Mayor Tom Marcucci serving as the Program’s host.

Each night, Institute participants began the evening with some refresh-

ments and social interaction, and then were treated to interactive educational presentations. From the genesis of the lifelong learning movement, to medical research and artificial intelligence, attendees learned valuable information on these very interesting subjects.

In addition to opportunities to ask these expert presenters questions in the group setting, presenters mingled with participants in a social setting after each presentation and the discussions deepened from there. Opportunities for tours of the Elmhurst History Museum and Elmhurst Hospital were also provided. The Hospital tour was “interrupted” by a visit from Moxi the robot, a working robot used to deliver supplies and medications throughout Elmhurst Hospital.

Presentations were as follows:

On Monday, July 17, at the Elmhurst History Museum, executive director David Oberg addressed Chatauqua: The History of Lifelong Learning, and From Prairie to Tree Town: Tales of Old Elmhurst

On Tuesday, July 18, at Elmhurst Memorial Hospital, Dr. Alexander

Jones System Director, Neurosurgery, presented How to Interpret Healthcare News in the Media

On Wednesday, July 19, at Community Bank of Elmhurst, Dr. John Jeffrey, professor of Computer Science and Dept. Chair at Elmhurst University, shared Artificial Intelligence and Our Future: Its Impact on Education, Jobs and Society

“We were extremely happy with the turnout and the Program,” said Institute co-founder Paul Koch. “We treated the Program as a prototype this first year, so the only marketing was by word of mouth. All involved in planning, presenting and attending the Institute believe this should be the first of many. More widespread marketing efforts will be used in the future, as all agreed this ‘test’ was a huge success.”

Underwritten by Community Bank of Elmhurst, the Institute was co-sponsored by the Elmhurst History Museum and Elmhurst Hospital. Those interested in attending next year’s Institute should look for more information early next year on the “Elmhurst Lifelong Learning” Facebook page.

Puzzle page

ANGLER BACKCAST

BAIT

BARB

BOBBER

BOTTOM FEEDER

BRAID

BUCKTAIL

BUNKER

CHUMMING

CREEL LIMIT

CRIMP

DRAG

FISHING

FLY

GAFF

HOOK

JIGGED LINE

LURE

REEL ROD

SINKER

SPOOL

SUDOKU

Fun by the Numbers

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

CLUES ACROSS

1. Russian painter

6. Very fast jet

9. Phillipine municipality

13. Intestinal

14. Small freshwater fish

15. Algerian coastal city

16. Vomit

17. Famed astronomer

18. Ghanaian currency

19. Improved the condition of

21. Int’l association of interpreters

22. Infections

23. Dish made with lentils

24. Thou

25. Former CIA

28. Unit used to compare power levels

29. Members of Pueblo people

31. Myanmar monetary units

33. Polished

36. Signed a contract

38. Nothing

39. Once-ubiquitous department

store

41. Neural structures

44. Thick piece of something

45. Slang for trucks with trailers

46. Longing

48. Senior officer

49. Levels of frequency

51. Bird’s beak

52. Move rapidly downwards

54. Koran chapters

56. Streteches out

60. Top of the human body

61. A Chinese temple and Indian town are two

62. Fertility god

63. Sea eagle

64. Dry

65. Zodiac sign

66. “Horizon Call of the Mountain” character

67. Have the ability to 68. Take somewhere

CLUES DOWN

1. “Iron Man” actress Leslie

2. Wings

3. Adjust the spacing

4. They’re usually locked

5. Atomic #43

6. Wise individuals

7. Horse mackerel

8. Pearl Jam’s debut album

9. Confines

10. Colorless crystalline compound

11. Unsatisfactorily

12. Plant of the parsley family

14. Determines time

17. Causes the birth of

20. Small ornament on a watch chain

21. Richly decorated cloth tapestry

23. Vito Corleone was one

25. Igbo musical instrument

26. Put in harmony

27. Japanese alcoholic drinks

29. Tinseltown

30. Closes tightly

32. Songs sung to one’s lover

34. One thousandth of an inch

35. Small drink of whiskey

37. Political divisions in ancient Greece

40. Helps little firms

42. Baby’s eating accessory

43. Very long periods of time

47. Small block of wood

49. Town in Surrey, England

50. Enquiry

52. Murdered

53. Bura-__: Chadic language

55. Crater on Mars

56. Mammal genus

57. Sock

58. Make

59. Stony waste matter

61. Partner to cheese

65. Pound

Cash bail will end in Illinois as justices rule SAFE-T Act provisions constitutional

Illinois becomes first state to fully eliminate cash bail

By Jerry Nowicki CAPITOL NEWS ILLINOIS

A landmark criminal justice reform that eliminates cash bail in Illinois is constitutional, the state’s Supreme Court ruled July 18, paving the way for the change to take effect Sept. 18.

The 5-2 decision—handed down on partisan lines—means that an individual’s wealth will no longer play a role in whether they are incarcerated while awaiting trial. Judges can still order someone to be detained as they await trial, but the new system will instead be based on an offender’s level of risk of reoffending or fleeing prosecution.

With the new law’s implementation, Illinois will become the first state in the U.S. to fully eliminate cash bail—and all provisions of the SAFE-T Act criminal justice reform will have taken full effect.

Short for Safety, Accountability, Fairness and Equity-Today, the wide-ranging measure was an initiative of the Illinois Legislative Black Caucus that passed in the wake of a nationwide reckoning with racism in the criminal justice system following the murder of George Floyd by a Minneapolis police officer.

The act reformed police training, certification and use-of-force standards, expanded detainee rights, and gave the attorney general’s office authority to investigate alleged civil rights violations by law enforcement. It also requires body cameras at all police departments by 2025. Some larger departments are already required to use body cameras under the law.

The state Supreme Court had postponed the scheduled Jan. 1 implementation of pretrial detention provisions pending its ruling, which was issued July 18.

State Rep. Justin Slaughter, a Chicago Democrat who sponsored the 2021 measure in the House, said in a virtual news conference after the court decision that the pretrial detention overhaul will addresses an “overly punitive criminal justice system” for impoverished Illinoisans – especially those in Black and brown communities.

It’s a system, Slaughter said, that often forces innocent individuals to take plea deals—and to accept a criminal record—to obtain their freedom when they don’t have money to post bail.

“So this is not about being tough or soft on crime,” he said. “This is about being smart on crime, reworking our system, streamlining our system to address those higher-level, more violent, dangerous alleged offenses. It’s not about having someone unnecessarily sit in jail.”

Legal arguments

While opponents of the new law have argued it will strain smaller court systems and hinder judicial discretion to detain individuals, the lawsuit centered on the meaning of two mentions of “bail” in the Illinois Constitution and the interplay between branches of government.

The Supreme Court ruled on a set of consolidated cases filed against Illinois Attorney General Kwame Raoul, Gov. JB Pritzker and the state’s Democratic legislative leaders by state’s attorneys and sheriffs from over 60 counties.

The lawsuit specifically cited Article VIII of the state constitution, which states, “all persons” accused of crimes “shall be bailable by sufficient sureties.” Any changes to the language, the lawsuit argued, would require a constitutional amendment to be approved by voters.

While a Kankakee County judge ruled with the state’s attorneys and sheriffs late last year, Chief Justice Mary Jane Theis, writing for the majority, said the lower court misinterpreted the state constitution.

“The Illinois Constitution of 1970 does not mandate that monetary bail is the only means to ensure criminal defendants appear for trials or the only means to protect the public,” she wrote.

She added that the “bailable by sufficient sureties” language in the current 1970 constitution mirrors the state’s original 1818 constitution. Theis noted that when the 1818 version was written, the concept of monetary bail was “all but unknown.”

Theis also noted the General Assembly first published “a comprehensive system concerning pretrial release” in 1963 and has since amended bail regulations “more than 20 times.”

“If the legislature could reconsider bail over the course of so many years, it could do so again in 2021 without offending separation of powers principles,” Theis wrote.

The high court’s two Republican justices dissented.

Justice David Overstreet, of the 5th District in southern Illinois, wrote that he believed the General Assembly’s elimination of cash bail was “in direct violation” of the constitution.

He said that was particularly true in reference to Section 8.1 of the Crime Victims’ Bill of Rights, which notes that a crime victim and their family has a right for their safety to be considered “in denying or fixing the amount of bail, determining whether to release the defendant, and setting conditions of release after arrest and conviction.”

Overstreet argued that eliminating cash bail would “nullify” that right, claiming that in bypassing a constitutional amendment, lawmakers “impermissibly usurped the ultimate sovereign power in this state, i.e., the citizens.”

“Therefore, this court has an absolute obligation to declare the pretrial release provisions of the Act to be invalid and unenforceable no matter how beneficial the abolishment of monetary bail may be,” Overstreet wrote, joined by Justice Lisa Holder White.

Theis’ majority opinion, however, said that the pretrial release provisions “expressly take crime victims into account.”

“As we have already mentioned, those provisions require a court to consider the ‘nature and seriousness of the real and present threat to the safety of any person or persons that would be posed by the defendant’s release,’ including crime victims and their family members,” she wrote.

‘Presumption’ of pretrial

tion” in favor of pretrial release, meaning “the state bears the burden of establishing a defendant’s eligibility for pretrial detention,” Theis wrote.

Advocates say the intent of that provision is to divert lower-level nonviolent offenders from pretrial incarceration while giving judges authority to detain individuals accused of more serious crimes if they are deemed dangerous or at risk of fleeing prosecution.

Another facet of the reform entitles defendants to a more intensive first appearance in court. During that appearance, defendants will now have a right to legal representation and prosecutors can detail their reasons for continued detention.

The new hearings replace standard bail hearings, which often last less than five minutes and end with a judge deciding the conditions of release, including how much money the defendant must post to be released.

The list of offenses for which a judge can impose pretrial detention drew controversy following the law’s 2021 passage, culminating in intensely hyperbolic and often misleading rhetoric amid the 2022 general election campaign.

In December 2022, lawmakers passed an amended version of the pretrial detention overhaul that expanded the list of crimes for which judges can order pretrial detention, adding hate crimes, felony animal torture, aggravated DUI causing bodily harm and other offenses if the defendant is deemed dangerous. More serious charges were eligible for detention in all versions of the bill.

Advocates for the bail reform have also noted that it gives judges greater authority to detain individuals accused of crimes such as domestic battery and violations of orders of protection prior to trial than does prior law.

Kaethe Morris Hoffer, the executive director of the Chicago Alliance Against Sexual Exploitation, spoke in favor of the reform at a virtual news conference.

“I want to be clear: safety and interests and voices of people who have endured rape and violence in the sex trade have never been prioritized when the criminal legal system is asked to make decisions about the liberty of people who are accused of serious crimes of violence. The PFA changes that,” Hoffer said, referring to the pretrial detention overhaul.

While the new law directs law enforcement officers to cite and release anyone accused of a crime below a Class A misdemeanor, they would maintain discretion to make an arrest if the person is a threat or if making the arrest is necessary to prevent further lawbreaking.

Contentions continue

After the court’s decision, Senate Republican Leader John Curran, of Downers Grove, issued a news release calling for a special session to clarify more parts of the bill in the 60 days before it takes effect. The proposed special session would need approval from Democratic legislative leaders or the governor, none of whom have publicly indicated support for the idea.

Curran said he’d support widening

judicial authority to detain individuals accused of all felonies, including the crime of burglary.

December’s amendment allows a judge to order detention for residential burglary or burglary “where there is use of force against another person.” But simple burglary—such as someone stealing change from a car or stealing from a business—is still not detainable based on an offender’s risk of danger to the community.

“There’s no magic to the actual cash bail,” Curran said in a phone interview. “But to handcuff judges in the system we replace cash bail with is equally going to lead to bad outcomes.”

Lake County State’s Attorney Eric Rinehart was one of two state’s attorneys in Illinois who backed the SAFE-T Act alongside Cook County State’s Attorney Kim Foxx. He said in a virtual news conference that the new law will give judges authority to incarcerate even non-violent offenders if they violate the conditions of pretrial release.

“I think something that got lost in the lies and misinformation from last

fall was that people couldn’t be held at all, no matter what they did, after having been arrested for nonviolent offense,” he said. “And that’s simply not true.”

While Foxx and Rinehart both noted they were preparing for months to implement the pretrial detention changes and have the resources to do so, Curran said he was worried about smaller counties being overburdened in implementing the law.

He noted that many smaller jurisdictions will lose revenue from cash bail payments when the system is eliminated – a point that reform advocates have repeatedly noted shows a flaw in the system.

“We have to look at how we’re going to fund our court system,” Curran said. “All the movements have been pulling money out of the courthouse, and we’re going to have to look for ways to actually make sure it is funded to implement this law.”

State Sen. Robert Peters, D-Chicago, said at the virtual news conference that any calls for a special session were “more about politics than policy.”

who have sent a donation to help underwrite The Elmhurst Independent. For those of you who haven’t done so in the past year, but enjoy this newspaper and would like to help us pay for its operation, please send a donation in any amount to:

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Windows

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.

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 Germany 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

(Continued from page 8)

team worked tirelessly cleaning up and loading unsold books onto the recycling truck after the sale ended. The Elmhurst Independent graciously provided us with publicity. The Hillside Library culled their collections and donated wonderful children and young adult books. Doti Liquors supplied us with boxes for the books. The Community Bank of Elmhurst advertised the sale on their digital sign. What a wonderful community effort!

Often, we ask ourselves, “Is it worth the work?” At least 40 women lifting, moving, and sorting books six days a week for three weeks. We get sweaty and dirty and achy and tired; yet, it’s all worth it when we hear a child’s squeal of delight as she fills a bag of books. It’s worth it when we find that one last book a York student needs for the fall

semester, or when we throw a few free books into a box of books that a new teacher is purchasing for her first classroom. We send cartons of unsold books to SCARCE which provides books to teachers, and to Bernie’s Book Bank which provides free quality books to children throughout Chicagoland. We give scholarships to women who cry as they tell us how meaningful our gift is to them.

Is there any doubt? It’s worth it! Thank you, Elmhurst, for supporting the Elmhurst Area AAUW Branch Used Book Sale. Your previously read books have made a difference. Dragging those books to a collection bin was much appreciated!

Carolyn Heiney and Jennifer Jordan Elmhurst Area AAUW Used Book Sale Co-Chairs

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-AFSINFO 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 AFS-USA Volunteer. Visit www.afsusa.org/ volunteer to get started or learn more about opportunities to make a difference.

Sport S

York boys basketball team enjoys productive summer Strong showings at two live-period shootouts

By Mike Miazga CORRESPONDENT

The York boys basketball team built up some strong momentum during the recently completed summer season. “The summer went really well,” York coach Mike Dunn said. “We played very well this summer. We had camp all of June and played in three shootouts.”

York went 3-2 at the Loyola Academy shootout, winning its first three games there. The Dukes played at various points of the event without AJ Levine and Kyle Waltz. The Dukes then posted perfect 4-0 marks at a pair of live-period shootouts that can be attended by college coaches. York went 4-0 at the Riverside-Brookfield shootout and also at the Romeoville shootout.

“We return a bunch of kids from last year who played a lot,” Dunn said. “Our kids are hungry to get better to take the next step in becoming not only a good team but a great team. We have great leadership. Our camp and practices were very competitive. That’s stuff you hope you would see when you are returning a lot of seniors. It was really good.”

Dunn said there is a cautionary tale of a small sample size, but the progress, he noted, was impressive. “Obviously it’s only the summer, but

it’s definitely something we wanted to see. This summer was something we hoped for,” he said. “The kids have taken the next step up and hopefully that will improve us as a program.”

Dunn said the individual advancements were many. “Each kid got better. We have a bunch of guys who also play AAU ball and have really improved,” he said. “AJ Levine is an all-conference kid who we know can score. He has really improved defensively and with dishing the ball off to make the team better passing-wise. Kyle Waltz has huge upside. We’ve had a lot of coaches asking about him. He’s really improved and had a great summer. Braden Richardson is coming up on his third year on varsity and he is starting to take the next step as well. Ryan Pechous is a senior who played a lot last year and has also improved and Brendan Molis played a lot last year but was banged up. He had a good summer.”

U12 baseball action

Dunn is also excited about the improvement seen in juniors Noah Moskal, Eddie Seeka and James DeCicco, along with sophomore Hunter Stepanich. “Those guys are promising,” Dunn said. “Hunter played as a freshman on the sophomore team last year and will be up this year.”

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

Bank

York also squeezed in time in a summer league in Downers Grove with 24 teams. The Dukes went 12-2 there, Dunn added. “No doubt, we’re happy, especially with playing some quality teams,” he said. “Overall, it was a good summer and we’ll keep building.”

Dunn knows his team must be in top form while playing in the West Suburban Conference Silver Di-

vision. “Yes, absolutely we know that every night will be a fight in the league and we will continue to try and keep getting better, compete and do the little things well,” he said. Dunn said York’s Jack Tosh Holiday Classic Christmas tournament will have an even tougher field this year with the additions of teams such as Downers Grove North, Metamora, Fenwick and Glenbard East.

“Downers North is a top-give team, Metamora won 3A and will come out and stay in Elmhurst for the week,” he said. “All of these teams are great additions. We feel this is the best tournament around. We have three or four top-10 teams and 12-15 top 2530 teams in the state. Bolingbrook is right up there for sure; they are really good. We want to make it the best and we think it’s the best.”

Pride in achievement

The York football team, coming off a historic 2022 season, recently won the Illinois High School Football Coaches Association Class 8A 7 v 7 state tournament title. York opens the 2023 season Aug. 25 at Glenbrook South.

Barr was the recipient of the 2019-2020 York Val Cothern junior female athlete of the year award. Barr went over the 1,000-career kill threshold last fall for the Dukes girls volleyball team and still has a season to add to that total.

CHRIS FOX PHOTO Elmhurst Independent

Above: Kyle Shafer displays the medals he received at the World Tang Soo Do Caribbean Championships. Shafer attained 3rd in weapons and Co-3rd in sparring.

Left: Luc Pesenti shares a few moments with Master Jovel Zuniga of Costa Rica, where the World Tang Soo Do Caribbean Championships took place. Pesenti placed 1st in forms, 1st in weapons and 2nd in sparring in his Division.

SUBMITTED PHOTOS Elmhurst Independent

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.

Library programs

Friday, July 28 from 2-4 p.m.

Friday Features: Twelve Angry Men

Enjoy an afternoon at the movies. Find each week’s featured film at elmlib.org/Friday. No registration required.

Saturday, July 29 from 10 a.m.-12 p.m.

Canasta

Join us for a friendly game of Canasta every week. Prior experience is required. Live in-person. No registration.

Monday, July 31 from 7-8 p.m.

Discover Music Production

Learn about the music industry and how you can create your own music with a variety of different software. Live in-person and on Zoom. Registration required.

Tuesday, Aug. 1 from 1-3 p.m.

Bridge and Pinochle

Enjoy an afternoon of card games every week. Prior experience is required. No registration required.

Tuesday, Aug. 1 from 1:30-2:30 p.m.

Staying Mentally Fit

Join us for fun mental enrichment including games, puzzles, and activities that boost memory, reasoning, and cognitive abilities. Live in-person. Registration required.

Wednesday, Aug. 2 from 10 a.m.-1 p.m.

American Mah Jongg: Open Play

Gather every Wednesday for American Mah Jongg, a game of skill, strategy, calculation, and a certain amount of chance. Live in-person. No registration required.

For more information about any of the above programs, call (630) 2798696 or visit elmlib.org/events.

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Special awards and recognition, Dean’s list, graduations, scholarships, further education at graduate or professional schools... send your college news to independent@ rvpublishing.com or FAX to (630)834-0900.

FALL BASEBALL - and - SOFTBALL REGISTRATIONS

Elmhurst Youth Baseball & EYB Cougars Softball House League registration is NOW OPEN! Register NOW to be a part of the fastest growing baseball & softball program in the Western Suburbs!

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

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

Elmhurst Youth Baseball is open to boys and girls ages 4 to 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 at eybaseball.org

SUBMITTED PHOTO Elmhurst Independent Zachary Allen