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Villa Park juvenile accused of threatening school violence

DuPage County State’s Attorney Robert Berlin and Villa Park Chief of Police Michael Rivas announced last week that a 13-year-old male Villa Park resident has been accused of threatening another juvenile and his family.

The juvenile appeared at a detention hearing where Judge Demetrios Panoushis ordered that he be detained until at least his next court appearance. He has been charged with two counts of disorderly conduct, a Class 4 felony.

On Tuesday, Jan. 17, the Villa Park Police Department became aware of an alleged threat made by a juvenile directed at the victim and the victim’s family. It is alleged that during a Snapchat group video, a verbal argument between the juvenile and the victim escalated at which time the juvenile made threatening statements such as he is going to “bring a gun

AT Special Olympics Basketball takes

Says he’ll ‘bring gun to school, finish what he started,’ police say

SUBMITTED PHOTO Addison Independent

(from left): Francesco Conforti, Brianna Duncan, Dwen Morris, Alexis Juarez, Geronimo Galan Jr. and Nathan Jacinto. Not pictured: Berenice Melendez-Rios.

February is National Children’s Dental Health Month

Did you know that dental-related ailments are responsible for the loss of more than 50 million school hours each year? That’s right. Thousands of children miss school every year because of some dental-related ailment. Fortunately, many of these ailments can be prevented through good oral care.

This National Children’s Dental Health Month, make your child’s smile a priority. Take them to the dentist regularly and teach them to care for their teeth properly.

Conroy delivers first State of the County address

Not surprisingly, business climate has improved since COVID-19

By Dee Longfellow FOR THE INDEPENDENT

On Wednesday, Jan. 18, about 140150 people filled a banquet room at the Doubletree Hotel in Downers Grove

hear the State of the County

first time

by

Deb Conroy, DuPage County Board Chair. The event also included a mini-business expo of several companies from throughout the area.

One of the first points Conroy made was how unemployment in

April of 2020 was at 13.6% in the County.

“A total of 4.5 million people left their jobs in 2021,” she said. “A study indicated that 20 per cent of workers intended to leave their jobs in 2021.”

Gratefully, the current rate of unemployment is just 3.2%, showing the County is back on track, Conroy said.

Following her address, Conroy in-

troduced representatives from WorkNet DuPage, a local organization that provides training grants for people in the DuPage business region.

WorkNet DuPage provided $313,000 in training grants for 130 employees and awarded $1.9 million in training scholarships.

Conroy announced that in the County, 36% of careers are in transportation, 25% in technology and

16% in healthcare. There was a 30% increase in the average salary here in DuPage, slightly more than the national average, which increased by 28%.

Reducing supply chain interruptions is a priority for Conroy. Conroy noted that Choose DuPage is another organization in the County operating

DEE LONGFELLOW PHOTOS The Independent Several County officials and business leaders attended the State of the County address, delivered for the first time by newly-elected DuPage County Board Chair Deb Conroy, including (standing, from left): Luke Oosterhouse, vice president of commercial services, Providence Bank & Trust; Cindy Cronin Cahill, County Board member, District 1; (seated from left): Sheila Rutledge, County Board, District 6; Paula Deacon Garcia, County Board, District 2; and, Liz Chaplin, County Board, District 2. (Note: Oosterhouse is not a member of the DuPage County Board.)

Scott LaMorte (left), vice president of Business Development at Itasca Bank & Trust, chats with David Hill III, CEO of Superior Ambulance at the annual State of the County address, delivered by County Board Chair Deb Conroy.

Kim Godden (right), vice president of Legal, Government Relations and Corporate Compliance for Superior Ambulance, introduced Deb Conroy, prior to her first address as the newly-elected DuPage County Board Chair. The address was held on Wednesday, Jan. 18.

to

address, delivered for the

newly-elected

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

Jan. 17

Jerry John, 41, of Addison, was charged with obstructing identification in the 1700 block of W. Army Trail at 1:44 a.m.

Jan. 16

Julio C. Cruz-Sanchez, 48, of Addison, was charged with DUI, illegal possession and transportation of liquor by a driver, improper lane usage and speeding near Mill and Lake at 2:25 a.m.

Jan. 15

Alexis Cruz-Martinez, 27, of Addison, was charged with two counts of DUI and speeding near Army Trail and Mill at 1:45 a.m.

Moises Ramos Chable, 34, of Mount Prospect, was charged with

DUI and improper lane usage near Lake and Grand at 1:54 a.m.

Elvis J. Salas-Bastardo, 32, of Addison, was charged with two counts of DUI and speeding 30-39 mph over the limit near Army Trail and Heritage at 9:37 p.m.

Jan. 14

Shanna B. Arnett, 44, of Lombard, was charged with DUI and speeding near Army Trail and Swift at 10:31 p.m.

Sipriano A. Tomas Garcia, 31, of Addison, was charged with DUI and improper parking near School and Byron at 3:40 a.m.

Jan. 13

Justin Alexander Cosby, 22, of Chicago, was charged with aggravated unlawful use of a weapon on person and speeding 40-plus mph over the limit near Swift and Army Trail at 9:59 p.m.

Pierre Alei Carll Moton, 20, of Chicago, was charged with aggravated unlawful use of a weapon on person near Swift and Army Trail at 10:01 p.m.

Jan. 12

Jesus Macias, 42, of Addi-son, was charged with DUI, illegal possession

and transportation of liquor by a driver and driving while license suspended in the 800 block of College.

Jan. 11

Juan R. Gutierrez-Rivas, 57, of Addison, was charged with three counts of violation of an order of protection at 12:45 p.m.

Jan. 10

A 60-year-old Addison man was charged with two counts of domestic battery in the 300 block of W. Park

at 8:54 p.m.

Jan. 9

Ronald J. Cruise, 68, of Warrenville, was charged with two counts of DUI, illegal possession/transportation of liquor by a driver and improper lane usage near Route 53 and Fullerton at 9:02 p.m. Margarito Ramos, 36, of Addison, was charged with DUI and illegal possession/transportation of liquor by a driver in the 100 block of S. Lincoln at 1:06 a.m.

A 31-year-old Addison woman was charged with two counts of domestic battery in the 500 block of N. Macie at 1:55 a.m.

Jan. 8

Chassity A. Calvin, 24, of Chicago, was charged with two counts of DUI near Lake and I-355 at 12:37 a.m.

Villa Park Jan. 14

Adam Marcelo, 19, of Lombard, was charged with theft less than $500, possession and consumption of liquor by a minor, displaying a fraudulent identification card and contributing to the delinquency of a minor at a restaurant in the 300 block of E. St. Charles at 1:10 a.m.

A male juvenile, 17, of Lombard, was charged with theft, unlawful consumption of alcohol by a minor, possession of a fraudulent identification card and possession of tobacco products at a restaurant in the 300 block of E. St. Charles at 1:10 a.m.

Jan. 13

A complainant at a store in the 100 block of W. Roosevelt reported at 3:20 p.m. that a subject was causing a disturbance and yelling at the complainant. The subject was gone upon officers’ arrival.

A complainant at a hotel in the 1-100 block of W. Roosevelt reported at 4:19 p.m. that an unknown suspect damaged the inside of the hotel room with a permanent marker.

Jan. 12

Police said Andrew O. Cowsky, 22, of Hodgkins, was arrested on an original complaint and warrant for phone harassment/abuse, threatening or harassing in the 1-100 block of N. Michigan at 7:12 p.m. for an alleged incident that was reported Nov. 18, 2022.

Emily E. O’Brien, 34, of Arlington Heights, was charged with DUI near S. Villa and E. Blackstone at 11:25 p.m.

Jan. 10

Police said Daryll D. Foster, 42, of Arlington Heights, was arrested on a failure to appear warrant out of DuPage County in the 300 block of W. North at 7:56 p.m.

Jan. 9

A complainant in the 500 block of S. Riverside report-ed at 5:40 p.m. they received a suspicious package in the mail.

Jan. 8

Christopher M. Becerra, 26, of Addison, was charged with violation of an order of protection in the 400 block of N. Ardmore at 7:38 p.m.

Police said Christopher Galvez, 25, of Addison, was arrested on three failure to appear warrants out of DuPage County in the 100 block of E. North at 12:59 a.m.

Fraud, identity theft

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

ATHS holds Information Night, activities fair

Many families turn out for AT’s Course Information, Activities Fair

On Jan. 19, Addison Trail hosted its annual Course Information Night and Athletic/Activity Fair to provide incoming and current students and parents/guardians with information about the academics, clubs, activities and sports at the school. About 300 families were represented during the event.

Participants were able to meet with school counselors, representatives from each academic area, athletic coaches/activity advisers, District 88 Board of Education members and Addison Trail and District 88 administrators. They also had the opportunity to learn about academic and social-emotional supports/services available to students, as well as parent organizations.

As Addison Trail and District 88 begin to prepare for the 2023-24 school year, District 88 Superintendent Dr. Jean Barbanente shares the following important information, updates and reminders:

• District 88 continues to provide rigorous – yet flexible and individualized – programming to help all students succeed

• District 88 continues to connect students to college and career integrated pathways and expand/enhance those opportunities

• 2023-24 course registration dates

• Courses offered at District 88, including:

o Advanced Placement (AP)/college-level and dual-credit classes.

o Externally credentialed and dual-credit career pathways in automotive technology, culinary arts, business careers, engineering, medical careers, teacher preparation, building trades and robust internship and paid apprenticeship programs in the manufacturing and

technology fields.

o Classes at Technology Center of DuPage (TCD), including cosmetology, criminal justice, fire science, medical or nursing assistant programs and more.

o A comprehensive curriculum with electives such as extensive music programs and an array of art classes.

o A variety of world language classes, with the opportunity to earn the State Seal of Biliteracy credential, as well as participate in international student exchanges.

• Details about SchooLinks, which provides comprehensive career-development and college-planning tools and resources.

• Mental health and social-emotional supports/resources available for District 88 students and families.

• Opportunities for businesses/ organizations to partner with District 88 and support District 88 students.

Dr. Barbanente’s address can be found in its entirety at the District 88 web site.

• VP Juvenile

to school … and going to finish what he started,” knowing that the victim’s mother stays at the house he’s “going to spray the house” and knowing that the victim’s younger brother goes to the YMCA after school he would “get him there.” An investigation into the matter led authorities to the juvenile who was taken into custody later that day.

“My office takes any threat of violence directed at a school extremely seriously and anyone suspected of

such behavior will be investigated and charged accordingly, regardless of the accused’s age,” Berlin said. “Threats are not harmless jokes or an excuse to blow off steam during an argument, they have a chilling effect on the victims, particularly young victims. I thank the Villa Park Police Department for their quick response and thorough investigation in this case.”

“We have seen an alarming increase in the number of threats made

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that end up being school related,” Rivas said. “We take all school threats seriously and we will investigate all such incidents vigorously and completely. Schools should be safe spaces where students are free to learn and grow without the fear of violence. The policing community in DuPage County is well trained in Restorative Justice.”

The juvenile’s next court appearance is scheduled for Feb. 9 in front of Judge Panoushis.

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(Continued from front page)

SUBMITTED PHOTOS Addison Independent

Addison Trail Principal Jack Andrews, who is an alumnus of the school, welcomes students and parents/guardians during Addison Trail’s annual Course Information Night and Athletic/Activity Fair. The event took place on Thursday, Jan. 19 to provide incoming and current students and parents/guardians with information about the academics, as well as clubs, activities and sports.

Junior Brittany Ramos (right) speaks with incoming Addison Trail freshman Victoria Wiecek about the school’s Blazettes team during Course Information Night and Athletic/Activity Fair.

Viewpoint

Slices of life

The birthday party without an invite

I went to many birthday parties when I was a kid. I don’t remember most of them. One I do remember, vividly, however, is the party to which I didn’t receive an invitation.

It was in celebration of one of my good friend’s 10th birthdays. I was unaware of the occurrence of such a mega event, which happened on a Sunday afternoon, until Monday morning, when it was the talk of the entire fifth grade.

Chicago area U.S. Representatives call on Sheriff Mendrick to rescind statement on H.B. 5471

Editor’s note: Last week, six Chicago area U. S. Representatives, including Sean Casten (Sixth Congressional District) and Raja Krishnamoorthi (Eighth Congressional District), sent a letter to DuPage County Sheriff James Mendrick expressing concern over his Jan. 13 statement that he will not enforce the Protect Illinois Communities Act (H.B. 5471). The legislation bans the sale and distribution of assault-style weapons, high-capacity magazines, and switches in Illinois. Here is the letter:

Dear Sheriff Mendrick:

We write to express significant concern with your statement on Jan. 13, indicating that you will not enforce the recently passed H.B. 5471, the Protect Illinois Communities Act. This legislation bans the sale and distribution of assault weapons, high-capacity magazines, and switches that allow handguns to fire rounds automatically, it also requires owners of banned weapons to register them with the Illinois State Police.

As sheriff, you do not have the authority to set enforcement priorities based on your personal views of a law’s constitutionality. Moreover, by choosing not to enforce the law, you will put the safety of DuPage residents and law enforcement officers at risk.

To that end, we request that you immediately rescind your Jan. 13 statement and clarify that you will uphold your office’s mission statement, including your duty to “enforce the laws of

the State of Illinois and the county of DuPage in a fair and impartial manner.”

It is clear that your statement was misguided and erroneous due to the widespread condemnation from DuPage County residents, several county board members, and state legislators.

We survive as a nation of laws and maintain the consent of the governed only to the degree that the public trusts that those laws will be equally and consistently enforced. Your assertion that the law enforcement officers under your command will not enforce laws passed by the State of Illinois at your sole discretion will lead to public distrust of the police, putting the safety of police officers and the general public at risk.

The United States has more guns per capita and more gun-related deaths per capita than any other developed nation. We also have the highest rate of mass shootings, commonly committed with the type of assault weapons that were recently banned under Illinois state law. This phenomenon also exists at the state level. The states with the highest rates of gun ownership also have the highest rate of gun-related deaths, including homicides and suicide.

A decision to maintain access to high-capacity weapons, like the one used in the July 4, 2022, Highland Park massacre, is a decision to put police and civilian lives at needless, avoidable risk.

Considering these concerns, we re-

quest your responses to the following questions by Friday, Feb. 3:

• Do you assert that you have the authority as the sheriff of DuPage County to selectively disregard state laws that you, in your judgment, believe to be unconstitutional? If so, please clarify where that authority resides.

• Have you, in your capacity as sheriff, ever previously opined that a state law was unconstitutional and directed your department not to enforce that law? If so, please provide details.

• Your department is funded and directed by the DuPage County Board. On Oct. 25, 2022, that board voted unanimously in support of a statewide ban on assault weapons and high-capacity magazines. Did you consult with any member of the board before issuing your Jan. 13 statement? Please provide details of any pertinent communications.

Public trust in our institutions depends, in part, on the principle that laws, once passed, will apply equally to all. The Protect Illinois Communities Act was passed with a focus of protecting Illinoisans across the state, regardless of geographical location. We look forward to your timely response to this letter.

Sincerely, U.S. Rep. Sean Casten U.S. Rep. Delia Ramirez U.S. Rep. Jesús “Chuy” García U.S. Rep. Mike Quigley U.S. Rep. Raja Krishnamoorthi U.S. Rep. Bill Foster

My friend Elizabeth had been to my house many times, and I to hers. I thought we were very close. Turns out there were at least a dozen or so girls she deemed closer.

I was devastated.

This was mid-January. Elizabeth was now 11. I was still 10 because my birthday was in the upcoming month of February.

Yep. Are you thinking what I’m thinking?

The tables had turned. It was my turn to plan the party and invite the guests.

I’d discussed my angst at the non-invitation with my mom and she acknowledged my right to feel slighted. And then she made a suggestion about my upcoming party.

“I think you should invite Elizabeth,” she said. “She may not have invited you, but leaving her out won’t change that. If you see her as a friend, show her and maybe she will come to understand how true friends treat each other.”

I, of course, counter-argued, “But she didn’t invite me!”

To that, my mom explained that meeting a perceived wrong with a similar action doesn’t help anyone.

“You felt bad when you found out about her party,” my mom said. “How will she feel if you do the same to her for your party? And, just as importantly, how will that make you feel?”

My 10-year-old brain contemplated that thought and I realized, rather quickly (to my surprise) that inviting Elizabeth was right in a number of ways, while not inviting her was wrong.

Offering the proverbial olive branch made my heart happy, while thoughts of excluding my

By JILL PERTLER Slices of Life

friend were only coming from a dark place. Even at 10 years old I understood that.

When I brought my party invitations to school a few days later I handed one to Elizabeth. Her eye widened and I could see she was surprised.

“You’re inviting me to your party?” She asked. “I didn’t invite you to mine.”

“I know,” I said. “I want you to come. I didn’t want to leave you out.”

She smiled and I smiled, and with that one exchange the discomfort of her party was put behind us. She did come to my party and we remained friends through age 11 and maybe even through age 12.

We were kids. Learning and growing from our mistakes. Sometimes the hard way, sometimes through the grace and insight of a wise mother.

But, here’s the real lesson in all of this. It’s one I just realized, decades later:

I never would have thought twice about inviting Elizabeth had she not invited me. I never would have confided in my mom and she, in turn, never would have had the chance to teach me this truth had I not been excluded in the first place.

Sometimes valuable insight and knowledge comes from the least likely of places—from darkness or at least the shadows.

Without shadows, we might not appreciate the light.

Elizabeth, in leaving me out, gave me a chance to embrace the light. Find your lessons from the most unlikely of places and darkest corners. That where they most often can be found.

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.

ATHS hosts Young Alumni Day

On Jan. 13, Addison Trail hosted its annual Young Alumni Day, where alumni from about the last seven years were invited back to the

school. More than 50 alumni attended the event, which included touring the school and visiting with friends and former teachers, coaches and

staff members.

“Young Alumni Day is a wonderful opportunity for us to stay in touch with our recent graduates and

keep them connected with their alma mater,” said Jack Andrews, Addison Trail Principal, who is also an alumnus. “It’s amazing to see them

as young adults and hear about their successes. This event truly embodies our motto of Blazer Pride and ‘Once a Blazer, Always a Blazer.’”

Among the Addison Trail alumnae who came out for Young Alumni Day on Friday, Jan. 13 were (from left) Amy Reyes (‘20), Diana Villegas-Hernandez (‘22) and Kaitlinn (Katie) Meisinger (‘22).

SUBMITTED PHOTOS ADDISON INDEPENDENT

Several alumni from Addison Trail High School turned out for Young Alumni Day. Pictured are (from left): Pauline Wirbicki (class of 2020), Gerardo Alvidrez (‘21), Elizabeth Bernar (‘21), John Stathopoulos (‘20), Jenna Wislek ( ‘20) and Valentina Pentrelli (‘20). The day offered an opportunity to tour the school and visit former teachers, coaches and staff members.

Addison Trail alumna Tiffany Cuevas (left, class of ‘21) visits with AT English teacher Jessica Clark during the school’s annual Young Alumni Day, which took place on Friday, Jan. 13.

Alumni Amie Lear (left) and Nadia James, both of the class of 2021, attended Addison Trail’s annual Young Alumni Day. They enjoyed the opportunity to visit with friends and former teachers, coaches and staff.

PROGRAM DETAILS

Serving children ages 2-6 years old

4’s Classroom 8:15-11:45am MWF or M-F

3’s Classroom 8:15-11:45am MWF or M-F

2’s Classroom 8:15-11:45am T/Th Full Day Enrichment available for 3’s and 4’s from 8:15am-2:45pm

OUR PROGRAM

Mary Queen of Heaven Preschool, in partnership with families and the loving support of our parish community, offers an early childhood program for children ages 2-6 years of age. We provide an educational experience that honors differences and focuses on the strengths and goodness of each child. Kids are encouraged to make choices, develop their talents, and understand the role God plays in the world around them. Children are free to play, explore, and imagine in our child-focused, and family sensitive environment that develops caring relationships with all those around us with love, justice, peace, and service. All are welcome!

Children do not need to be potty-trained to attend our 2’s classroom.

MQH works with families, to ensure children utilizing Madison school, eat lunch and are picked up safely. Call or email

Addison-Villa Park-Bensenville happenings

Celebrate Valentine’s Day Feb. 7

Addison

Winter wonderland dance party Jan. 27

On Friday, Jan. 27 from 10-10:30 a.m. at the Addison Public Library, little ones are invited to join Innovation Arts Connection to discover the magic of imaginative play with singing, exploration, and learning new dance skills. We’ll explore multiple styles of dance and read a winter story together. Wear comfortable clothing and dance shoes if you have them.

Movement stations Feb. 3

On Friday, Feb. 3 from 10 a.m.-12 noon, the Addison Public Library will host a program for little ones in the Children’s Department. Practice yoga moves, walk the balance beam, or move across some steppingstones. There will also be new toys to try. No registration required.

On Tuesday, Feb. 7 from 6-7 p.m. at the Addison Public Library, join Ellie Presents and learn all about Valentine’s Day in this interactive program for children. Ellie will tell us all about the history of Valentine’s Day, who St. Valentine really was, and much more. All participants will also make their very own valentine. Open to all ages with caregivers. Co-presented with the Addison Historical Society. Info: addisonlibrary.org/ events or call 630-543-3617.

Valentine’s Dance Feb. 10

On Friday, Feb. 10 from 6:30-8:30 p.m., parents and guardians of those ages 3 and older are invited to dress up and come to a sweetheart dance at the Community Recreation Center, 120 E. Oak St. Dinner and refreshments will be provided as well as a commemorative photo. Fee: $15R/$20NR per person. To register, go to addisonparks. org and use Code 602811.

Bensenville Park District presents ‘Sweetheart Ball’ for dads and daughters Feb. 4

On Saturday, Feb. 4 from 6-8 p.m., dads and their daughters are invited to attend the Sweetheart. Ball at White Pines Golf Club, 500 W. Jefferson St. Have a sweet time at this annual candy-themed event, which features an evening including dinner (choice of chicken fingers, chicken breast or vegetarian pasta), dancing, entertainment, and a sweets table. Register at the Deer Grove Leisure Center by Monday, Jan. 30. Tickets are $25R/$30NR per person. Ages 2 and under free. Info: bvilleparks.org.

Park District hosts

“Senior” prom Feb. 5

The 50+ Young-at-Heart crowd is invited to relive their high school glory days at White Pines Golf Club’s senior prom dance on Sunday, Feb. 5 from 3-6 p.m. The resident registration fee is $15 per person or $25 per couple (add $5 for non-residents) an includes a chicken dinner, dancing and assorted sweets. A cash bar will be available. Register at the Deer Grove Leisure Center. Info: bvilleparks.org.

Hand & Foot Game Fridays

On Fridays from 12:30-4 p.m., the Bensenville Park District offers a game called Hand & Foot at the Deer Grove Leisure Center, 1000 W. Wood Ave. Hand & Foot is a card game for 4-8 players at a table. The object of the game is to get rid of cards from your hand pile and then from your foot pile. The group will help newcomers learn the game. This event is free and registration is not necessary. It is important to arrive on time as partners and tables are determined at the beginning. Info: bvilleparks.org.

Library seeks donations to local history

On Tuesday, Jan. 31, the Bensenville Public Library is hosting ‘Scanning Day’ for you to share your Bensenville history for the Illinois digital archives. Make an appointment with the digital librarian and archivist Elizabeth Morris to scan and add your photos and documents about Bensenville history to the Bensenville Historical collection in the Illinois Digital Archives. Up to 25 items can

be donated for scanning and must be about Bensenville history. Stories, people, places, events, and dates will be gathered for the archives to bring your donation to life. Registration is required. Please make an appointment on the library’s online calendar at benlib.evanced.info or contact Elizabeth at (630) 766-4642 or emorris@benlib.org for other available appointment times. This event is free.

After-School gaming Jan. 31

Tuesday, Jan. 31 from 2:30-4 p.m., ages 10-and-older are invited to the Bensenville Community Public Library for some gaming fun on the library’s Nintendo Switch . Play Mario Kart, Mario Party, and more. Registration is not required to attend, but space is limited and available on a first-come, firstserved basis. Info: benlib.evanced.info.

Villa Park

Library hosts virtual program with Kwame Alexander Feb. 8

Villa Park Public Library is joining libraries across the state of Illinois to host best-selling and award-winning children’s and young adult author and poet Kwame Alexander. Presented by Illinois Libraries Present, the event will be held virtually via Zoom on Wednesday, Feb. 8 from 7-8 p.m. Alexander is a poet, educator, publisher, and New York Times bestselling author of 36 books, including the Newbery Award winning book The Crossover , the Newbery Honor/Caldecott Medal winning book The Undefeated , and most recently An American Story . At this Illinois Libraries Info: www. vppl.info or call 630-834-1164. Note that this program will not be recorded for future viewing.

Valentine’s Day Craft Open House Feb. 11 and Feb. 12

The Villa Park Public Library will hold a Valentine’s Day Craft Open House on Friday, Feb. 10 and Saturday, Feb. 11 from 2-4 p.m. Children of all ages are invited celebrate sweethearts with a fun craft project. Young children will need some adult help. Registration is not required but supplies are limited. Info: www.vppl.info or call 630-834-1164.

WEDNESDAYS

FRIDAYS

THURSDAYS

Can’t-miss events throughout DuPage County

Editor’s note: Our next DuPage Destinations section will be published Thursday, Feb. 9. If you have information on an event in DuPage County taking place after Feb. 9 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

Now through Jan. 29 Downtown Wheaton Restaurant Week

Recurring daily in downtown Wheaton, order up and join in for this week-long celebration of the vibrant downtown Wheaton culinary scene. From special menu offerings to discounts and even charitable givebacks, this is the perfect opportunity to try a new restaurant or visit one of your local favorites. For more information, visit: www.downtownwheaton.com/restaurantweek

7th annual Westmont Restaurant Week

Presented by the Westmont Chamber of Commerce and Tourism Bureau, this experience will truly show how you can dine around the world in Westmont. This popular event features a mix of fixed priced menu options (excluding beverages, tax and gratuity), specials and discounts. So loosen your belts, order for pick-up, curbside, or delivery and enjoy the many tasty experiences awaiting you in Westmont. For more information, visit: www.westmontchamber.com/ wrw_pre.html

Now through Feb. 5

Chinese Lunar New Year, Rosemont

Recurring daily at the Fashion Outlets of Chicago, 5220 Fashion Outlets Way, Suite 230, Rosemont, The 16-day celebration will feature robust programming and exclusive offers at participating retailers for shoppers to enjoy. Visit Concierge Services on Level One, near Saks Fifth 5TH, and receive a special red envelope featuring a free saving pass and special Lunar New Year offers and services from participating retailers. For more information, visit: www.fashionoutletsofchicago.com/ Events/Details/556642

Now through Feb. 21

Brews and Painting, Itasca Jan. 31, and Feb. 14 and 21, at

Church Street Brewing Company, 1480 Industrial Drive C, save the dates and plan a fun evening in the taproom with your friends. This isn’t an art class but experience some tricks on making your painting a work of art. Visit the website for more details about each individual date. https://www.paintnite.com/ venue-owners/church-street-brewing-company

Now through Feb. 25

Polar Plaza Ice Skating Rink, Glen Ellyn

From noon-9 p.m. daily in the Crescent Parking Lot, 551 Crescent Blvd., the Polar Plaza synthetic ice-skating rink and curling lanes in downtown Glen Ellyn is now available during the winter season. The Polar Plaza occupies a portion of the Village of Glen Ellyn Crescent parking lot, just west of Main Street. For more information, visit: https:// gepark.org/polar-plaza/

Now through Feb. 26

Tubing at Mount Hoy, Warrenville From 10 a.m.-4 p.m. at Blackwell Forest Preserve, Butterfield Road, weather permitting, take a thrilling 800-foot ride down the Mount Hoy tubing hill. It’s open on weekends and school holidays when there’s plenty of snow (usually more than 3 inches). Rentals end at 3:30 p.m., although the hill may close early due to

extreme cold or severe weather. Inner tube rentals are at the base of the hill. Price: $10 per day per person. Pay with cash or credit card. Only district inner tubes are allowed. For more information, visit: www.dupageforest.org/things-to-do/get-outdoors/winter-in-preserves

Now through March 25

Stories of DuPage: Reading

Between the Lines Exhibit, Wheaton Tuesdays through Fridays, 10:30 a.m.-4 p.m., and Saturdays, noon-4 p.m. at the DuPage County Historical Museum, 102 E. Wesley St., several DuPage County residents have penned nationally regarded novels and other fictional works, such as “Anna and the King of Siam” and the “Little Orphan Annie” comic strip. Stories of DuPage explores the lives and careers of these authors, examining how their DuPage roots shaped the stories they told. Admission is free, but donations are appreciated. For more information, visit: https:// dupagemuseum.org/collections-exhibits/

Saturday, Jan. 28 8-year anniversary party, Noon Whistle Brewing, Lombard and Naperville

Starting at 11 a.m. at Noon Whistle Brewing, 1748 W. Jefferson Ave., Naperville and 800 E. Roosevelt Road, Lombard, join us at either the Lombard Brewpub or the Naperville tasting room and celebrate 8 years of beer. For more information, visit: www.noonwhistlebrewing. com/8-year-anniversary-party

Saturday, Jan. 28 and Sunday, Jan. 29

Elmhurst Symphony Orchestra’s Concertofest, Hinsdale and Elmhurst

Starting at 2:30 p.m. Saturday at Union Church of Hinsdale, 137 S. Garfield St., and at 3 p.m. Sunday at Elmhurst Christian Reformed Church, 149 W. Brush Hill Road, Elmhurst, if you’re looking to be dazzled at every turn, this is the concert for you. A concerto (pronounced con-CHAIR-toe) is a piece of music written for soloist(s) accompanied by an orchestra or other ensemble. Basically, it’s a chance for a virtuoso musician to show off what they can do while the rest of the orchestra backs them up, and thus ConcertoFest.is packed with virtuoso soloists. General admission: $35, $32 for seniors. For more information, visit: https://

elmhurstsymphony.org/event/concertofest

Wednesday,

Feb. 1

Valentine’s Day Painting Night, Downers Grove

From 3-10 p.m. at Alter Brewing Company, 2300 Wisconsin Ave., Suite 213, we’re switching things up with paint nights in 2023. Our amazing Amy is bringing awesome new kits for you to paint and build. Our first one of the year features cute little snowmen with hearts. Each guest will receive all the pieces and supplies needed to assemble and paint two snow people. Tickets are $16 for children, $22 for adults. For more information, visit: https:// www.eventbrite.com/e/valentines-painting-night-at-alter-brewing-company-tickets-511136943357

Thursday,

Feb. 2 through Sunday, Feb. 5

Frosty Faustings, Lombard

At the Westin, 70 Yorktown, Frosty Faustings is one of the largest celebrations of fighting games and open bracket tournaments in the country. They strive to give competitors the best tournament experience possible. The event focuses on Guilty Gear and other anime titles but also features all the latest major titles, fan favorites, classic legacy titles, and Chicago’s famous mystery tournament. It’s two days of tournaments, but a four-day event. For more information, visit: https:// frostyfaustings.com

Friday, Feb. 3 through Sunday, Feb. 5

Ice Festival, Downers Grove

Join in the fun at the annual Ice Festival in downtown Downers Grove. Enjoy live ice carving demonstrations at the Main Street Train Station. The Ice Festival is free to attend. Make sure to stop in and support your favorite boutiques, cafes, and restaurants. For more information, visit: https://www.downtowndg.org/

Saturday, Feb. 4

Winter Fair, Lombard

From 1:30-4 p.m. at Sunset Knoll Recreation Center, 820 S. Finley Road, enjoy an afternoon of frozen winter fun. Be sure to bundle up because this indoor/outdoor event is full of hot chocolate, games, crafts and more. For more information, visit: https://lombardparks.com/

Editor’s note: Unless otherwise specified, learn more about these events and programs at: addisonlibrary.org/events or call 630-5433617.

Friday, Jan. 27

• Winter wonderland dance party

From 10-10:30 a.m. at the Addison Public Library, join Innovation Arts Connection to discover the magic of imaginative play with singing, exploration, and learning new dance skills. We’ll explore multiple styles of dance and read a winter story together. Please wear comfortable clothing and dance shoes if you have them.

• Digital converting: 35mm film, slides and photos

From 1-2 p.m. at the Adult Program Room of the Addison Public Library, earn how to digitize your 35mm film and slides and your print photos using equipment from the library’s Sound Studio.

Tuesday, Jan. 31

Retirement tax planning

From 7-8 p.m. at the Large Meeting Room of the Addison Public Library, get the most up-to-date information on retirement taxation, including way to efficiently harvest your income sources like Social Security, 401(k)/IRA, other sources, or a combination of them all.

Wednesday, Feb. 1

Talking politics

From 7-8:30 p.m. at the Large Meeting Room of the Addison Public Library, get out of your echo chamber. Discuss and debate political issues with your neighbors in this safe space.

Friday, Feb. 3

Movement stations

From 10 a.m.-noon at the Addison Public Library, at this program for little ones, we’ll have out some special toys in the Children’s Department for you to try. Practice yoga moves, walk the balance beam, or move across some steppingstones. No registration required.

Sunday, Feb. 5

Resume basics

From 1:30-2:30 p.m. at the Adult Program Room of the Addison Public Library, your resume is an essential part of the job search process. This workshop will teach you how to create and format a resume to best sell your skills and experience to potential employers. Part of our technology made simple series; learn more and sign up at https://www.addisonlibrary.org/Tech-Simple

Monday, Feb. 6

Genealogy at your library

From 7-8 p.m. on Zoom via the Addison Public Library, local genealogist Suz Bates will present step-by-step directions to guide you through using the library’s genealo-

gy databases to improve your family history research.

Tuesday, Feb. 7

• Celebrate Valentine’s Day

From 6-7 p.m. at the Addison Public Library, join Ellie Presents and learn all about Valentine’s Day in this interactive program. Ellie will tell us all about the history of Valentine’s Day, who St. Valentine really was, and much more. All participants will also make their very own valentine. Open to all ages with caregivers. Co-presented with the Addison Historical Society.

• Computer basics (Windows)

From 6-7 p.m. at the Adult Program Room of the Addison Public Library, if you want to learn how to use your Windows computer, this is the program for you. We will discuss navigating the computer, managing files and folders, deleting and saving files, and more. Part of our Technology Made Simple series; learn more and sign up at https://www.addisonlibrary.org/Tech-Simple

Wednesday, Feb. 8

Google Calendar basics

From 2-3 p.m. at the Adult Program Room of the Addison Public Library, discover how Google Calendar can keep you on time and organized. In this introductory workshop, add events and reminders to your calendar, and share them with others. Part of our Technology Made

Simple series; learn more and sign up at https://www.addisonlibrary.org/ Tech-Simple

Thursday, Feb. 9

HEAL: Health for English learners

From 10-11:30 a.m. starting Feb. 9 and each Thursday until March 23 at the Adult Program Room of the Addison Public Library, learn about healthy food, medicine, making doctor’s appointments, talking to doctors, emergencies, and more with People’s Resource Center. To participate, you will need to complete a short phone assessment with PRC. Open to students living in DuPage County.

Ongoing events

Open enrollment is ongoing for the Addison Park District Preschool

The Addison Park District preschool program curriculum reflects the Illinois Early Learning and Development Standards. Visit www. illinoisearlylearning.org for more details. The Park District helps children develop prekindergarten skills, including letter/name recognition, listening skills, healthy habits, cooperative play, fine motor, and socialization skills. The experiences are both educational and recreational, which aid in social, physical, intellectual, and emotional growth. Registration is taken in-person at the Centenni-

al Rec Center. Call (630) 233-7275 option 3 for registration availability. Visit addisonparks.org for required paperwork due prior to first day of program.

English reading circle

Starting at 11 a.m. Tuesdays at the Adult Program Room of the Addison Public Library, build your vocabulary and reading skills in a small group setting.

English conversation groups

At 2 p.m. Mondays on Zoom, and at 7 p.m. Wednesdays at the Adult Program Room of the Addison Public Library, practice listening and speaking skills in a small group setting. Learn more at: addisonlibrary. org/events

English reading circle

At 11 a.m. Tuesdays at the Adult Program Room of the Addison Public Library. Learn more at: addisonlibrary.org/events

Heroes story time

From 10-10:30 a.m. at the Addison Public Library, join us for stories and activities about everyday heroes, superheroes, and more.

Clubs and organizations are welcome to send entries for this column to: news1@rvpublishing.com. Please include a phone number or e-mail address to contact for information.

Rifle Association files federal suit against assault weapons ban

Case to center on Second Amendment in Southern

District

By Peter Hancock Capitol News illiNois

The Illinois State Rifle Association has joined forces with other gun rights advocates in filing a federal lawsuit challenging the state’s new ban on the sale and manufacture of semiautomatic weapons and high-capacity magazines.

It’s the latest legal challenge to the law, which went into effect upon Gov. JB Pritzker’s signature on Jan. 10, and the first filed in federal court.

The case, which will be heard in the Southern District of Illinois, was filed within a week of a similar case being filed in state court in Crawford County.

Additionally, Thomas DeVore, a private attorney and unsuccessful candidate for attorney general in 2022, has filed suit in Effingham County and is seeking an emergency injunction to block the new law’s enforcement.

“Gov. Pritzker and the legislators who voted for this law did this for

self-serving political purposes and are not upholding the United States Constitution,” Richard Pearson, executive director of the ISRA, said in a statement. “The Second Amendment is fundamentally about self-defense, and the 14th Amendment is about not having our rights infringed. This new law makes criminals out of law-abiding citizens.”

The law bans the sale and manufacture of a long list of firearms—including certain rifles, shotguns and handguns—that it categorizes as “assault weapons.” It also requires people who currently own such weapons to register them with the Illinois State Police by Jan. 1, 2024.

It also bans the sale and manufacture of magazines capable of holding more than 10 rounds of ammunition for a long gun or 15 rounds for a handgun. Those who already possess such devices would be able to keep and possess them on private property, on a gun range, at a licensed gun shop to undergo a repair, or while traveling to one of those locations, provided the magazine is unloaded and kept in a case.

The assault weapons ban also prohibits the use, sale and possession of devices—including items known as “switches” and “bump stocks”—that increase the rate at which a gun fires

by either converting it into a fully automatic weapon or making it fire like one. A fully automatic weapon continues firing as long as the user squeezes the trigger, while a semiautomatic weapon fires only one round for each trigger pull.

But plaintiffs in the federal lawsuit argue that the weapons banned under the law are commonly used in the United States, that they have been traditionally accepted as lawful firearms, and that they are, in fact, among the most popular weapons among gun owners, accounting for approximately 20 percent of all firearms sold in recent years.

They also challenge the use of the term “assault weapon,” arguing that it was coined by “anti-gun publicists” and that the weapons covered by the law are vastly different from those used in the military.

The suit alleges that the law violates the plaintiffs’ constitutional rights under the Second and 14th Amendments to the U.S. Constitution.

The law was prompted in large part by the July 4 mass shooting at an Independence Day parade in Highland Park that left seven people dead and dozens more injured or traumatized.

The alleged shooter in that case

used a Smith & Wesson M&P 15 rifle with three magazines of 30 rounds each, items that are included within the scope of the new law.

That weapon is similar to AR-style rifles that have been used in numerous mass shootings in the U.S. But the plaintiffs in the lawsuit argue that those weapons actually account for only a small percentage of overall gun crimes in the country.

When Pritzker signed the legislation, Illinois became the ninth state in the nation to enact some form of assault weapons ban. But those laws are now under scrutiny amid shifting legal and political opinions about the meaning of the Second Amendment, which reads: “A well regulated Militia, being necessary to the security of a free State, the right of the people to keep and bear Arms, shall not be infringed.”

As far back as 1938, the U.S. Supreme Court upheld indictments against a pair of Oklahoma bank robbers charged with transporting a sawed-off double-barrel shotgun across state lines, holding that such weapons had no reasonable relationship to a well-regulated militia and thus were not protected by the Second Amendment.

Seventy years later, however, the court struck down a Washington,

D.C., ordinance banning the possession of handguns in the district, holding that the Second Amendment does guarantee an individual’s right to keep and bear arms. That ruling held that the clause referring to well-regulated militias was only “prefatory” in nature and does not limit or expand the “operational” clause that guarantees a right to keep and bear arms.

Even in that case, however, former Justice Antonin Scalia wrote that the Second Amendment is not absolute and that it does not guarantee a right to keep and carry any type of weapon for any purpose.

“We think that limitation is fairly supported by the historical tradition of prohibiting the carrying of ‘dangerous and unusual weapons,’” he wrote.

But then last year, in a case striking down the state of New York’s requirement that people had to demonstrate “proper cause” for a concealed carry permit, the court said the Second Amendment protects the right to keep and bear arms that are “in common use,” and that restrictions violate the amendment if they are not “consistent with the Nation’s historical tradition of firearm regulation.”

As of Jan. 18, the federal court in the Southern District had not yet set a schedule for hearing the case.

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

Sea grape

European public health group (abbr.)

A way to delight

Ancient heralds’ wands

Make a booking

‘__ death do us part

Pearl Jam frontman

Spider genus

Fill with high spirits

A major division of geological time

Catch

An independent ruler or chieftain

Electronic music style (abbr.)

Influential Spanish cubist painter

Illegally persuades

A way to derive

British School

Appear alongside

Surely (archaic)

Harsh cry of a crow

A day in the middle

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Collectible glassware, crocks, bowls, jugs. Christmas decorations, linens, handmade quilts, rolling pin collection, bedroom set, lamps, kerosene lamps, collectible vases, small tables, craft items, antique books, kitchen items, small kitchen appliances, antique chest, irobot vacuum, massage chair pad, walker, library table, quilting supplies, thimble collection, small kitchen table, craft items, sewing machine and so much more. No pre-sales. Accepting cash or venmo only.

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. The toll-free tele phone number for the hearing impaired is 1-800-927-9275.

EQUAL HOUSING OPPORTUNITY

in order to connect small businesses with local suppliers who need them, as well as educational opportunities.

Like a role she played in her time as a State Representative, Conroy pledged to make mental illness and substance addiction to be among her top priorities. In Springfield, the Vil-

la

“There is no blanket solution for this issue,” she said. “Every community faces a different set of circumstances and it will require the collaboration of experts from many fields to find the right plan of attack.”

16 state representatives, senators: DuPage County sheriff ‘has no authority to determine the constitutionality of a law’

Editor’s note: The following open letter, signed by 16 area state representatives and senators, opposes DuPage County Sheriff James Mendrick’s Jan. 13 statement that neither he, nor his office, will check to ensure that lawful gun owners register their weapons with the state—nor will his office arrest or house law-abiding individuals that have been arrested solely with non-compliance of H.B. 5471.

To the people of DuPage County:

We are the 16 Illinois State Senators and Representatives that represent the overwhelming majority of you and your families in DuPage County.

Like so many concerned individuals who have contacted us in recent days, we are dismayed and angered by the recent pronouncement by the DuPage County Sheriff to unilaterally direct his office to flout and disregard the duly passed and signed Protect Illinois Communities Act.

The sheriff has no authority to determine the constitutionality of a law; that is up to the courts. Nor can he pick and choose which laws to enforce; he must enforce them all.

This bipartisan law was the product of hundreds of hours of negotiations and advocacy from across our shared community and constituents. It will fight the senseless barrage of gun violence that has plagued our state for

far too long.

By banning the sale and distribution of assault weapons, high-capacity ammunition magazines, and switches in Illinois, the Act makes our schools, neighborhoods, parades, grocery stores, and workplaces safer from the gun violence that is a threat to our wellbeing everywhere.

The DuPage County Sheriff’s intention to violate his sworn duty to uphold our state’s laws is a dereliction of duty and puts our safety at risk. The sheriff’s words send a clear message that lawbreakers are welcome here. Should any related tragedy occur within our borders, not only will he bear responsibility for the resulting and everlasting scars upon our community, but he also will put our livelihoods and property tax dollars at risk, as his declaration now opens us up to financial liability.

Please know that even if the DuPage County sheriff will not do his job to protect you, we as your Illinois Senators and Representatives are already doing so with the full weight of our offices. We are working closely with the Illinois State Police, the Governor’s Office, the Attorney General, and additional levels of state and local government and law enforcement to ensure that we will fill the void left when the sheriff abandoned his duty to protect our community.

We will never abandon the constituents that we have sworn to serve, not only in DuPage County, but for the whole state.

Sincerely, Sen. Laura Ellman, 21st District Sen. Laura Murphy, 28th District

Sen. Suzy Glowiak Hilton, 23rd District

Sen. Rachel Ventura, 43rd District

Sen. Karina Villa, 25th District Rep. Dagmara Avelar, 85th District

Rep. Diane Blair-Sherlock, 46th District

Rep. Terra Costa Howard, 42nd District

Rep. Barbara Hernandez, 50th District

Rep. Norma Hernandez, 77th District

Rep. Maura Hirschauer, 49th District

Rep. Stephanie Kifowit, 84th District

Rep. Jenn Ladisch Douglass, 45th District Rep. Michelle Mussman, 56th District

Rep. Anne Stava-Murray, 81st District

Rep. Janet Yang Rohr, 41st District

St. Timothy Evangelical Lutheran Church 547 N. Main St. Lombard, IL 60148 (630) 627-2435

Sunday Worship at 10:15 am Sunday School & Bible Study 9am Wednesday Service at 7pm

Adult Bible Study Wednesdays after Service January 28 Game Night at 4pm

Everyone is Welcome!

All services are live streamed. You can watch them on our website or on Facebook. sainttimothy.org

Park Democrat served as Chair of the House Mental Health committee.

The Elmhurst Symphony is a nonprofit organization funded in part by the Illinois Arts Council, DuPage Community Foundation, Explore Elmhurst, and patrons like you Learn more: ElmhurstSymphony.org/Giving.

Monday–Friday 8:00 a.m.–6:00 p.m. Weekends and Holidays 8:00 a.m.–2:00 p.m.