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Independent

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Court agrees to detain Wood Dale man accused in fatal aggravated DUI crash

DuPage County State’s Attorney Robert Berlin announced that Judge Joshua Juan Moxthe Dieden granted the state’s motion to deny pre-trial release for a Wood Dale man accused of crashing his vehicle while intoxicated killing his stepdaughter Jaylene Escamilla.

Juan Moxthe, 45, appeared at First Appearance Court, and was charged with one count of aggravated DUI causing death, a Class 2 felony.

On Dec. 17 at approximately 2:15 a.m., Chicago police officers responded to a call of a single-vehicle crash in the 12000 block of Irving Park Road near O’Hare Airport.

Upon their arrival at the scene, officers found ambulances and fire trucks already at the scene.

Escamilla was pronounced deceased at the scene while Moxthe was immediately transported to a local hospital for medical attention.

Following an investigation into the crash, it is alleged that Moxthe, his wife, Escamilla and her husband were traveling on Irving Park Road when Moxthe lost control of the

See CRASH, Page 3

Inside:

Chris Bazant among honorees

SUBMITTED PHOTO Addison Independent

Opinion....................4 Classifieds..............12 Speak Out.................5 Sports ��������������� 14-17

Even Santa got into the spirit of things when the Addison Trail boys basketball team held its Staff Appreciation Night. Coming down the line is high school social studies teacher Chris Bazant who was nominated by junior Dominic Renc to be among those recognized at the annual event. Story and more photos on page 3.

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Pre-trial release denied for Naperville woman accused of stabbing two young girls while babysitting DuPage County State’s Attorney Bob Berlin and Lisle Chief of Police Kevin Licko have announced that Judge Joshua Dieden granted the state’s motion to deny pre-trial release for a Naperville woman accused Jennifer of stabbing two young Kouchoukos girls, ages four and one, while babysitting at their Lisle home.

Jennifer Kouchoukos, 51, appeared in First Appearance Court and was charged with two counts of attempted first-degree murder (Class X felony), two counts of aggravated battery to a child under 13 (Class X felony)

and two counts of aggravated battery with a deadly weapon (Class 3 felony). In court, the state filed a motion for a psychiatric evaluation of the defendant.

On Nov. 17, at approximately 5:15 p.m., Lisle police officers responded to a residence on Matson Lane for a report of a suicide attempt. Upon their arrival, officers observed one of the children sitting in a bathroom covered in blood and the other child sitting nearby on the kitchen floor, also covered in blood.

Officers also observed the defendant wearing blood-soaked clothing near the vanity in the same bathroom as the first child.

The children were immediately taken

to a local hospital for medical attention and subsequently transferred to Comer Children’s Hospital in Chicago.

Kouchoukos, who was unresponsive to any questions or commands, was taken to a local hospital for medical attention.

Following an investigation into the incident, it is alleged that while Kouchoukos was babysitting the children, she stabbed both children multiple times in their back and chest areas.

When processing the scene, authorities located multiple knives stained with what appeared to be blood, an empty bottle of wine and a nearly empty bottle of rum. On Dec. 26, Kouchoukos was released from the hospital and transported to the DuPage

County Jail.

“This is an extremely disturbing case for all those involved,” Berlin said. “We are all very grateful that the injuries sustained by the young girls in this case were not life threatening and that they both appear to be on the road to recovery.”

“What a horrific incident our officers were faced with. I cannot praise them enough,” Licko said. “Once they knew there were injured children inside, the officers rushed into the house without hesitation. I commend them for executing their job skillfully and professionally.”

Kouchoukos’ next court appearance is scheduled for Jan. 12, for arraignment in front of Judge Brian Telander.

Prohibition on book bans, right to sue for ‘deepfake porn’ among new laws in 2024 More than 300 statutes become law in the new year

By Peter Hancock, Andrew Adams and Jerry Nowicki CAPITOL NEWS ILLINOIS

More than 300 new laws took effect Monday, ranging from a ban on book bans to the regulation of “deepfake porn” and prohibitions on videoconferencing while driving.

Thanks to a law signed in 2019, workers at the lowest end of the pay scale will see a pay raise with the new year as the state minimum wage increases by one dollar, to $14 per hour.

Gov. JB Pritzker championed and signed that law after it was approved by lawmakers within his first two months of office. The law gradually phases in a $15 per-hour minimum wage starting in 2025.

The minimum wage applies to most workers 18 years of age and older.

Teens who work less than 650 hours in a calendar year will go up to $13 an hour while the minimum wage for tipped workers will increase to $9 an hour.

Also going into effect on Monday, Illinoisans who own guns, ammunition and accessories prohibited under the state’s “assault weapons” ban will be in violation of the law if they don’t register them with the state. A federal judge recently chose not to temporarily halt the law’s enforcement while a broader legal challenge plays out. The U.S. Supreme Court also recently declined to stay the law.

While permanent administrative rules regulating which guns and ammunition must be registered with the Illinois State Police remain in flux, temporary rules governing registration remain in effect.

Other laws hitting the books include a measure granting paid leave to all workers, indoor vaping restrictions and a ban on youth solitary confinement in state correctional facilities, among others.

to 40 hours of paid leave during a 12-month period, time they can take off work for any reason, regardless of whether they are full-time, part-time, or seasonal employees.

The Paid Leave for All Workers Act passed during the lame duck session in January, 2023—a session that was called primarily to pass the assault weapons ban. Pritzker signed it into law March 13.

“That is a game changer for many employers, particularly those who have not previously offered any type of paid leave to their employees,” Scott Cruz, a labor attorney, said during an interview with Capitol News Illinois in November.

In particular, he said, the law will be a major change for waiters, waitresses and other workers in the hospitality industry who have never received paid leave benefits in the past.

The Illinois Department of Labor has published a list of frequently asked questions to help guide employers and employees through the new law.

contradicts the very essence of what our country stands for,” he said in a statement. “It also defies what education is all about: teaching our children to think for themselves. This landmark law is a triumph for our democracy, a win for First Amendment Rights, and a great victory for future generations.”

Digital forgeries Lawmakers this spring approved a new protection for victims of “deepfake porn.” Starting in 2024, people who are falsely depicted in sexually explicit images or videos will be able to sue the creator of that material.

The law is an amendment to the state’s existing protections for victims of “revenge porn,” which went into effect in 2015.

In recent years, deepfakes—images and videos that falsely depict someone—have become more sophisticated with the advent of more readily available artificial intelligence tools. Women are disproportionately the subject of deepfake porn.

Some sponsors of the legislation, Banning book bans notably chief sponsor Rep. Jennifer Libraries in Illinois will lose access Gong-Gershowitz, D-Glenview, have to grants administered by the secretary indicated interest in further regulating of state’s office after Jan. 1 if they ban the use of artificial intelligence. books or other material “because of partisan or doctrinal disapproval.”

Zooming while driving The so-called ban on book bans, It is now illegal for Illinois drivers House Bill 2789, was an initiative of to participate in videoconferencing or Secretary of State Alexi Giannoulias. check their social media pages while The secretary of state in Illinois also behind the wheel. serves as the state librarian, which The law adds the use of any mobile awards millions of dollars a year in videoconferencing software, explicitly grants to public and school libraries referencing Zoom, Microsoft Teams around the state. and Webex, to banned actions under Under the new law, libraries must existed distracted driving laws. either adopt the American Library The law also specifically names soAssociation’s Library Bill of Rights cial media sites Facebook, Snapchat, or develop a written statement prohib- Instagram and “Twitter,” which was iting the practice of banning specific rebranded to X a few months after the books or resources. law’s passage.

Giannoulias said he proposed the Illinois law currently bans cell phone legislation after extremist groups tar- use generally while driving, although Paid leave for all geted Illinois libraries with efforts to it does allow drivers to use phones Starting Jan. 1, anyone who works ban certain materials from circulation. through hands-free or voice-activated in Illinois will be entitled to earn up “The concept of banning books means.

In 2022, more than 24,000 drivers were cited for distracted driving in Illinois, according to the secretary of state’s office.

Illinois drivers continue to be able to use cell phones in handheld mode if they are reporting an emergency, are parked on a road’s shoulder or if they are stopped due to a traffic obstruction and the vehicle is in neutral or park.

Vaping indoors People who use electronic cigarettes or vaping devices will now face the same restrictions as cigarette smokers.

It’s an update to the state’s SmokeFree Illinois Act, which banned smoking in most indoor public spaces and within 15 feet of building entrances in 2008. “Public places” include restaurants, theaters, offices, stores, libraries, schools, polling places, all government-owned buildings and banks among others.

Tobacco stores and vape shops are exempt from the law, as well as some other facilities, such as smoking rooms at nursing homes, some hotel rooms and tobacco conventions.

The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reported this summer that in 2021, nearly 5 percent of adults were e-cigarette users, although that figure was 11 percent among people 18 to 24.

Other new laws Youth solitary confinement: House Bill 3140 prohibits solitary confinement in youth detention facilities for any purpose other than temporarily preventing serious and immediate risk of physical harm.

Grocery initiative: Senate Bill 850 created a Grocery Initiative program which will receive $20 million to fund grants and financial aid to grocery stores opening or operating in “food deserts.” It also requires the Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity to study food deserts.

Underground Railroad task force: Senate Bill 1623 creates the Under-

ground Railroad Task Force to develop a statewide plan for creating a “cohesive statewide history” of the Underground Railroad and developing new educational and tourism opportunities.

Utility shutoffs: House Bill 1541 prohibits utilities from shutting off gas or electric services due to nonpayment of bills when the temperature exceeds 90 degrees or there is a heat advisory in effect.

Rearview mirrors: It’s long been illegal in Illinois to hang an object that obstructs a driver’s view from a rearview mirror. House Bill 2389 maintains that driving with such an obstruction is prohibited, but it also prevents law enforcement from stopping and searching a vehicle solely because the driver is violating that law.

Civil rights violation: Under Senate Bill 1817, anyone who considers immigration status during a real estate transaction, including purchase and rental transactions, could be guilty of a civil rights violation.

Dangers of fentanyl: House Bill 3924 requires high schools to teach students about the dangers of fentanyl in state-required health courses. The coursework would include differentiating legal and illegal uses of the drug, details about “the process of lacing fentanyl in other drugs and why drugs get laced with fentanyl,” as well as information on how to detect fentanyl in drugs and how to save someone from an overdose.

Fentanyl test strips: House Bill 3203 allows pharmacists and retailers to sell fentanyl test strips over the counter.

Bears and primates: Senate Bill 1883 prohibits keepers of bears and nonhuman primates from allowing members of the general public to come into contact with them. Violators of the law would be subject to a Class B misdemeanor.

“General public” does not include employees at the facility where the animal is kept, veterinarians or professional film crews.

Thursday, Jan. 4, 2024

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The IndependenT Your Hometown Newspaper 240 N. West Avenue Elmhurst, IL. 60126 Main Phone 630.834-8244 Fax 630.834-0900 The Independent is published every Thursday by Rock Valley Publishing, LLC, 240 N. West Avenue, Elmhurst, IL. 60126.

The Addison Trail boys basketball team recently held its annual Staff Appreciation Night, when each athlete honored a certain person.

Pictured are the honorees and the players who nominated them. Each honoree was presented with a certificate that included a message from the player who nominated him or her.

AT boys basketball team hosts Staff Appreciation Night Junior recognized for 1,000-point scoring milestone

On Wednesday, Dec. 6, the Addison Trail boys basketball team hosted its annual Staff Appreciation Night.

During the event, each varsity student-athlete recognized and thanked a staff member who has made a positive difference in their life and played a role in shaping them into who they are today. Each honoree was presented with a certificate that included a message from the player who nominated him or her.

Following are the student athletes with their honoree’s name and department: junior Alexander Manriquez honored LeVonne Cescolini-Boyer of the social studies department; junior Aryan Patel, Aaron Jackson, science; junior Luke Smith, James Ziebka, reading; senior Arturo Quiroga Jr., Colleen Kane, math; junior Isaiah Cortes, Dan Styler, social studies; junior Casey Carlson, Michael Kennedy, special education; senior James Cahill Jr., Nicholas Pingel, science; junior Dominic Renc, Chris Bazant, social studies; junior Matt Garcia, Jeff Laschinski, CTE; senior Michael Morales, Cory Little, girls head basketball Annette Severino, a member of Addison Trail’s special education staff, was among the many honored coach; junior Roberto Rizo Mut, Jessi- recipients at Staff Appreciation Night held recently. She was recognized by junior Malik Barry. ca Clark, English; junior Maximillian Sobus, Ryan Peronto, social studies; senior Cesar Alvarez Herrera, Mike Rosengrant, physical education; junior (Continued from front page) Mario Rodriguez Jr., Bianca Neff, sovehicle striking a guard rail causing cial studies; junior Malik Barry, Anthe vehicle to flip. nette Severino, special education.

It is further alleged that Moxthe’s Junior Luke Smith honored BAC was 0.12 approximately two for scoring milestone hours after the crash.

The team also recognized juOn Dec. 22, Moxthe was released nior Luke Smith for reaching the from the hospital and immediately 1,000-point scoring milestone. Smith transported to the DuPage County accomplished this feat on Nov. 29 Jail. with a 3-point basket during Addison “Like all alleged DUI cases, the Trail’s game against St. Charles East. case against Mr. Moxthe was 100 He has been on the varsity team since percent avoidable,” Berlin said. “As I his freshman year and completed this have said many times before, if you accomplishment in 59 varsity games. have been drinking, do not get beTo honor Smith’s success, boys baskethind the wheel of a car. Call a friend, ball team head coach Brendan Lyons a cab or use a ride sharing service to presented him with a commemorative make sure you and your passengers basketball. get home safely. I offer my sincerest “Smith excels at all aspects of the condolences to Jaylene’s family and game,” Lyons said. “He distributes the friends and wish them strength as they basketball, rebounds the basketball and adjust to their new reality of life withis a tenacious defender. His passion for out Jaylene.” the game is evident, but he also is as Moxthe’s next court appearance is humble of a player as any you’ll come Addison Trail junior Luke Smith was recognized on Dec. 6 for reach- scheduled Jan. 8 for arraignment in across. He has definitely earned the reing the 1,000-point scoring milestone. He is pictured with his family. front of Judge Ann Celine O’Hallaren. spect of his coaches and teammates.”

• Crash

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Opinion

Banning Congressional stock trading through the ETHICS Act

By U.S. Rep. Raja Krishnamoorthi Early last month, with public trust in Congress falling to the lowest levels ever recorded, I joined my colleagues in voting to expel former Rep. George Santos for his litany of lies and alleged crimes.

While that is a step toward addressing the loss of public trust in Congress, far more action is needed.

One of the most immediate and significant steps we can take is to ban members of Congress from trading stocks while in office to ensure legislators put their constituents ahead of their portfolios. That is why in May I introduced my bipartisan and bicameral Ending Trading and Holdings in Congressional Stocks (ETHICS) Act which would ban Members of Congress and their spouses and dependents from owning, selling, and trading individual stocks.

Despite opposition from some members of Congress, three-quarters of voters support prohibiting members of Congress from trading stocks while serving in office, and that support crosses party lines as 70 percent of Democrats, 78 percent of Republicans, and 80 percent of independents favor a stock trading ban.

I discussed the urgent need to strengthen congressional ethics through the ETHICS Act earlier this month in an op-ed I wrote with Senator Jeff Merkley of Oregon and Noah Bookbinder, President of the government ethics watchdog Citizens for Responsibility and Ethics in Washington (CREW).

Event Jan. 8 to focus on bill to end degree-based hiring discrimination On Monday, Jan. 8, I will be hosting a panel discussion at Harper College at 1 p.m. on fighting hiring discrimination against people without four-year degrees who are still otherwise qualified for the job.

We need to ensure that workers skilled through training and experience, rather than a bachelor’s degree,

receive fair consideration in hiring.

While automation and other technical advances in hiring have made application screening easier for employers, they have also significantly contributed to the trend of unfairly discriminating against those without four-year degrees by requiring degrees for jobs that previously did not demand them.

To address this problem, I partnered with Republican Congressman John James in October to introduce the Opportunity to Compete Act, bipartisan legislation that would open the door for qualified workers without a bachelor’s degree, who have acquired relevant skills through other means such as apprenticeships and previous job experience.

Working to avoid a fiscal cliff for great Chicago’s transit system Last week, I joined with State Sen. Ram Villivalam to write in the Chicago Sun Times about avoiding the fiscal cliff that awaits the Chicago transit system in the absence of effective government action. When the remaining federal pandemic relief funding for public transit runs out in 2025, Chicago’s regional mass transit agencies—CTA, Metra, and Pace—will face a combined annual budget shortfall of $730 million. This fiscal cliff comes as a consequence of the COVID-19 pandemic as well as remote work trends it has expedited, which have radically reduced ridership and thus revenue to the agencies.

For example, while CTA ridership has recently increased, ridership is only 53 percent of pre-pandemic levels as overall transit use in our region has similarly been cut in half since 2019. In the absence of major action, services could be dramatically cut, harming commuters and other residents of our region. To prevent major service reductions, regional authorities, the state of Illinois and federal agencies must work together to close the budget shortfall and ensure the continued operation of our region’s mass transit.

Raja Krishnamoorthi represents the 8th Congressional District of Illinois, which includes part of Addison, Wood Dale and Bensenville.

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Slices of life

A new pair of shoes

I love my wardrobe. Heck, I love clothes.

A lot.

But for years (for decades, people) I put that all on the back burner.

It was due to the kids. It’s always due to the kids, isn’t it?

They always bear the brunt of our angst. We sacrifice for them. Gladly.

Because that is what you do. It is what you want to do as a parent. You wouldn’t have it any other way.

I sacrificed for Nike tennis shoes.

I sacrificed for American Eagle, Abercrombe, and Lulu Lemon, depending on the kids and the decade.

And I sacrificed for my husband’s clothes as well. He needed suits and ties, and they don’t come cheap.

It was what it was. I wouldn’t change it for anything.

But suffice to say, my kids had tennis shoes with the correct logo and my husband had iron-free shirts because my family was my pride and joy (and we all had a distain for ironing).

I didn’t care much where my clothes came from (still don’t) but while making sure my kids and husband had the correct attire, I still attended to mine, albeit in the minimalist regard. I didn’t care what I had and I didn’t care if I had much.

Just the basics, if you will.

Mind you, I never wanted for anything. I could have bought

By

JILL PERTLER Columnist

expensive jeans or shoes and my husband would have applauded me. It was my decision, completely.

I guess I just felt the people around me, the people I cared about, needed clothing and brand name shoes more than I did. And for the most part, I’d created these human beings with needs, so I felt the obligation make sure they had enough—or even a smidge more than enough.

And that goes for love as well as clothes.

But (drum roll …) now it’s my turn.

The kids are grown with feet that are no longer growing and in need a new pair of tennis shoes every September. My husband is gone— quite literally—and I donated many of his suits, shirts and shoes to charity.

He no longer wears his clothes out.

Heck, he no longer wears them.

That leaves … just me.

My goodness, have I been having a good time with this.

I still don’t wear many name brands, but I’ve developed my own style. It’s flashy, it’s unique and it’s

Letter to the editor Dignity for the unborn

I write in regard to the Texas case of Kate Cox suing to abort her unborn child who was diagnosed with trisomy 18.

In the 12/21/23 edition of the paper (Page 5), State Rep. Terra Costa Howard referred to this case as a “doomed pregnancy.” I take extreme objection to this misleading language. Children born with trisomy 18 can and do survive. It is mostly a fatal diagnosis but 5-10 percent of these children will see their first birthday. Texas abortion law allows

exceptions in the case of risk to the mother’s life or the function of a major bodily system. This case did not meet the requirements for these exceptions. The risks the mother faced were the same general risks involved in a potential induction or c-section when a woman has had prior c-sections.

Her “health and fertility” were not at risk (as Rep. Costa Howard suggested). What was sacrificed completely was the dignity of the child whose life was cut short because it had a rare genetic abnormality (Mrs. Cox went out of state for an abortion

fun. And I’m having a grandiose time with it.

I think this probably happens to a lot of us—men and women. For many years, we put our own needs on the back burner because there are others, often needy and helpless others who call us mom and dad, who are relying on us to make sure their needs get met in a healthy and timely fashion.

So we go without sleep. We go without new clothes and a new car.

We make do with what we have so our littles can have what they need - and sometimes beyond what they need because it is what we do—as adults, as parents, as caring human beings.

And then that ends, because kids grow up don’t they? What follows is the me years.

I’m at the cusp of them and they feel quite nice, thank you. I still look after my kids and grandkids, but I have more time to think about what I might want to do or experience, and after giving for so long it feels okay.

Maybe even better than okay.

I give thanks for better than okay every day. To be in this place and in this space is truly worth my gratitude.

Well, that and a new pair of shoes.

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.

after Texas courts denied her petition).

There has been so much poor reporting on this case. First, this woman had options—the doctors would monitor the health of mother and child and deliver at term by induction or cesarean if it survived to full term. If the child tragically died before reaching full term, the doctors would have delivered the child whole and the parents could have held her, mourned her passing and preserved her dignity. But these options were

See LETTER, Page 5

Thursday, Jan. 4, 2024

Lombard calling. Is there some wisdom and logic to the thinking of village leaders where every little piece of land has to be occupied and DuPage County with development, which is usually strip malls increasingly, and just these chain stores all boxed in and divided up among each other? With the lack of affordable housing, I can’t understand in any sense of reality why the village leaders continue to allow such expensive condo complexes and why would anyone even want to live in these overpriced housing complexes? Is there some problem they have with traditional housing tracts in DuPage County?

And this is the ultimate goal of village leaders and planners?

Editor’s note: Your inquiry was forwarded to Village of Lombard officials, who provided the following information: “The village has adopted a Comprehensive Plan (see chart) designating recommended land uses and is available on the Village website: https://www.villageoflombard.org/DocumentCenter/View/849/2014-Comprehensive-Plan-PDF?bidId=.

“While the village does not set market price points for private housing, the policy document offers policy housing recommendations, including fostering a diverse housing stock with a sustainable land use pattern and a variety of housing types. The plan designates the following cumulative land use types by percentage, based upon the existing built environment and planned land uses for undeveloped or redeveloped areas: “There are several projects in the pipeline which are or will be under construction in 2024 jointly meet the diverse housing type goal. These projects include: New Directions Housing (30 affordable senior housing units), the Sonesta 144 unit hotel to apartment conversion, market rate in-fill apartments on West Willow and South Westmore-Meyers Road, the Summit at Yorktown townhomes, the first Phase of the Yorktown Reserve apartments, and the Norbury Crossing single family home subdivision, to name a few.

“More information regarding development projects can be found on our website: https:// www.villageoflombard.org/358/ Development-News.” *** It’s been obvious for a long time. Biden wants to get as many grateful illegal immigrants into the country as he can before the 2024 election. He doesn’t have the capacity to make important decisions

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himself without a teleprompter.

If his Democrat supporters don’t wake up soon, this country is in big trouble. Poor President Biden needs his handlers to let him spend his golden years in total retirement.

Biden’s position has to be stressful if he even knows what’s going on around him. *** Lombard calling. Is there an ordinance or rule that a village has to have a certain percentage of affordable housing, whether it be low income or for seniors? And what is considered affordable? Thank you.

Editor’s note: Your question was forwarded to the Village of Lombard for a response, which is as follows: “To meet federal Fair Housing Act requirements, DuPage County and its consortium communities including Lombard regularly complete a Consolidated Plan to identify barriers to housing choice and to take actions to eliminate impediments. Illinois Public Act 93-678, administered by the Illinois Housing Development Authority, encourages municipalities to incorporate affordable housing.

“If a community does not have at least 10% of the existing housing meeting affordability criteria, an affordable housing plan must be developed. Currently, 24.5% of Lombard’s housing (4,183 of 17,211 units) is deemed to be considered affordable.

“IHDA has a series of formulas to define affordability. The median Lombard household income is $95,509. Affordable rental units would be those with monthly rents below $1,433. Affordable owner-occupied units would be those units with monthly below $2,257, not accounting for mortgage costs and downpayment variables.” *** People think the AR-15 stands

Obituaries

MARY BETH BOEH, 68 Mary Beth Boeh, age 68, of Naperville, formerly of Lombard and the Lakeview area of Chicago, died Dec. 25, 2023.

Visitation will be held on Thursday, Jan. 4, 2024, from 4-9 p.m. at Brust Funeral Home, 135 S. Main St., Lombard, with a eulogy being shared about 6 p.m. There will also be a Prayer Service on Friday, Jan. 5, 2024, at 9:15 a.m. followed by a Mass at 10:30 a.m. at St. Thomas the Apostle Catholic Church, 1500 Brookdale Rd., Naperville. Private Interment.

Info: www.brustfuneralhome.com or 888-629-0094.

PATRICIA M. DELL’AQUILA, 78 Patricia M. Dell’Aquila, age 78, of The Villages, Fla., passed away peacefully on Saturday, Dec. 23, 2023.

Funeral prayers will be held Thursday, Jan. 4, at 9 a.m. going from Brust Funeral Home, 135 S. Main St., Lombard, to St. Catherine of Sienna-St. Lucy Catholic Church, 38 N. Austin Boulevard, Oak Park, IL 60302 for a 10 a.m. Mass. Interment to be held at Mt. Carmel Cemetery, Hillside. Info: www.brustfuneralhome.com or 888-629-0094.

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for “assault rifle,” but as the owner of another model of a “less-threatening” AR, AR actually stands for ArmaLite Rifle, after the manufacturer. This has been verified by Snopes.com and other sources. I have no problem with registering weapons, but I know a few gun collectors who worry about their privacy, with information leaking out somehow, that they have these guns, and having them stolen. The bottom line is, the criminals are not going to follow the law and will still be armed with illegal guns; the very people the government should be most worried about. Not counting the murderers who mow down crowds of innocent people, I would still like some sociology or social science expert to explain how these criminals have developed the mentality that if someone ticks you off, you just shoot them dead; it is not just gang wars anymore, but also road rage, bar fights, etc., that escalate into murder. *** Hello, Lombard and Villa Park.

What are the plans for the migrant buses that are sure to be arriving soon? The buses are making it into DuPage County. We might be next.

How are you going to handle this?

Where are we going to put all these folks? Lombard and Villa Park churches, Lombard and Villa Park officials, gee, maybe we shouldn’t have torn down the library so quickly. It would have been a nice place to house people. *** So this year’s COLA for Social Security is 3.2 percent. The website states the purpose of the COLA is to “ensure that purchasing power ... is not eroded by inflation” and that the COLA is determined by the COLA during the third quarter of this year. Not eroded by inflation?

My increase was about $40 and $10 of that went to an increase in Medi-

Page 5

care. What will that $30 buy me with the real cost of goods and services now? It would be laughable if it weren’t such a pathetic increase.

I should be grateful there was an increase to begin with. That will buy me one tank of gas a month. *** With all of the technology and skills we have at our disposal today, it seems like we are becoming brain dead or plain stupid. Driving home in Lombard the Saturday before Christmas, it was foggy. People park their cars on the street. The cars are close to invisible because of hardly any reflectors on the tail lights, and then you almost run into an idiot in black with no reflectors or lights on a bicycle. In the long run the driver of the moving car will be blamed for any kind of accidents. What happened to IDOT regulations years ago about lighting and reflectors, especially on bikes?

Thank you. *** As Clara Peller used to say, where’s the beef? Thank you and good night, America. *** As I’ve been hearing about how the U.S. military has been falling short of recruitment goals, I’m reminded of how the military discharged over 8,000 service members after Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin mandated the COVID-19 vaccine for all service members in 2021. Now the Army is telling soldiers who were kicked out for not taking the vaccine that they can come back! How many of those 8,000 have come back? Only 43!

That is from a story I saw on CNN, not Fox News. Interesting. *** I’ve noticed the number of socalled migrants or asylum seekers who have been charged with retail theft at stores around this area has increased the last few weeks. We can all thank Joe Biden and the Democrats who support sanctuary cities here in Illinois for that. Make sure you reward them by voting a straight AL HOTWAGNER, 89 Al Hotwagner, 89, a Lombard res- Democratic ballot in November. ident for 57 years, passed away surrounded by his family on Dec. 23,

2023, at Elmhurst Hospital.

(Continued from page 4) A Memorial Gathering was held on Thursday, Dec. 28, at Brust Fu- rejected. neral Home, 135 S. Main St., LomThe family chose to have an aborbard. Info: www.brustfuneralhome. tion. This involves a “D & E” or dilacom or 888-629-0094. tion and evacuation. This procedure dilates the cervix and the medical RAYMOND P. URBONAS, 70 provider goes into the uterus and disRaymond Peter Urbonas, age 70, of members the unborn child. An aborLombard. Beloved husband of the late tion does not make a baby disappear.

Margaret “Marge” Urbonas, nee Blair; It simply terminates its life in a cruel loving father of Catherine (Kevin) Wol- and undignified manner. ford, Diane (Michael) Humann, and I have great sympathy for a family Megan Urbonas (Trevor Hollowed); receiving a heartbreaking diagnosis. dear son of the late Ursula, nee Janav- But the solution is not to end the life icius, and the late Peter Urbonas; de- of the baby. voted grandfather of Winter Wolford, Just as we provide hospice for born Charlie Humann, and Emily Humann; humans with a terminal diagnosis, so fond brother-in-law of Gerald (Sharon) too exists the option of perinatal hosBlair, Lucy Blair, Charles J. Blair III, pice for unborn humans. the late Eloise Blair Judy, and the late Providing life-affirming medical Miriam (the late Frank) Krause; uncle support for the child and the family of many nieces and nephews. preserves our human dignity. EducatFuneral services were held Wednes- ing women that abortion is not their day, January 3rd, meeting at Christ the only option is crucial. I pray we reKing Catholic Church, 1501 S. Main main a country with a culture of life St., Lombard. Interment St. Casimir as the Declaration of Independence Catholic Cemetery. promises.

Funeral info: knollcrest.net or (630) Jessica Keating 932-1500.

Lombard

• Letter

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Thursday, Jan. 4, 2024

DuPage County Clerk announces no primary candidate petition challenges filed for 2024 local races

Second major election cycle in a row with no ballot objections in DuPage County

submitted photo Rock Valley Publishing

Montini Catholic’s 40th annual Fashion Show benefits San Miguel Scholarship Fund

Montini Catholic High School alumni and parents celebrated the “magic of giving” last month at the school’s 40th annual Fashion Show, held at the Doubletree by Hilton in Oak Brook. Student models, parents, friends and fashionistas kicked off the Christmas season in style. The Christmas-themed fashion extravaganza is a much-anticipated Montini tradition, featuring trendy and casual apparel, formal wear, furs and sparkling evening gowns, all modeled by Montini juniors, seniors and alumni, and all for a good cause—to benefit Montini’s San Miguel Fund. The scholarship fund helps provide financial assistance to Montini Catholic families finding themselves experiencing hardships, such as serious illness, death or severe financial difficulties. It provides students with an opportunity for a Catholic education that they may not otherwise be able to afford. The festive day featured a luncheon, pre-show vendor boutique and raffle opportunities before the student and alumni models danced their way down the runway. Above: Seniors Dominic Catalano of Lombard and MaryKate Lewan were among the Montini students who served as models during the fashion show.

DuPage County Clerk Jean Kaczmarek has announced there are no primary candidate petition challenges filed for 2024 local races— the second major election cycle in a row with no ballot objections in the county.

“It was unprecedented in 2022 when no candidate petition challenges were filed here,” Kaczmarek said.

“We just surpassed our own record.”

Starting in 2019, Kaczmarek initiated DuPage’s first petition workshop to help potential candidates understand the process of obtaining a place on the ballot and staying there.

During COVID, the County Clerk’s office continued detailed training workshops online with Illinois Election Attorney Patrick Bond.

2022 was notorious for ballot objections filed all over Illinois, even in small counties with low populations which had never experienced such challenges. Yet DuPage, the second

most-populated county, had no ballot objections that year.

The clerk’s office also simplified and clarified candidate forms and instructions.

Together with the educational workshops, objections that are costly to both candidates and the county have been avoided for two major election cycles.

“I had observed candidate petition objection hearings in DuPage for years as a private citizen,” Kaczmarek said. “It really bothered me to watch well-meaning potential candidates being tossed off the ballot because of minor flaws or the inability to afford an attorney.”

Kaczmarek added, “I firmly believe that ballot access is a fundamental right within a democracy.

Instead of removing candidates from the ballot over technicalities, voters should have the opportunity to decide.”

Coming events

STEM Camp starts Jan. 16 Trinity Lutheran Church is offering STEM Camp for children ages 3-5.

Register now for classes starting Jan. 16. Call 630-833-1080 or tcnschair@ gmail.com for more information.

Installation luncheon Jan. 17 The Lombard Chamber of Commerce is holding its installation luncheon for new members Jan. 17 at Embassy Suites Chicago- Lombard/Oak Brook, 707 E. Butterfield Road, Lombard. Registration begins at 11:30 a.m. 630969-7500. Members $40 per person; non-members $50 per person. Visit lombardchamber.com for more information.

Dr. Kelly talks straight about sciatica Are you suffering from back pain or sciatica? Then it’s likely your biggest problem is pain. But there’s another major problem: bad information.

To end sciatica misery you must have the right information. Pay close attention because local doctor Kelly Synowiec-Moroney DC is going to destroy sciatica myths and give you the facts.

MYTH: Sciatica will just “go away” with some rest.

FACT: If you are dealing with back pain, buttock pain or leg pain, then you must seek help from a doctor who is knowledgeable in sciatica immediately.

Left untreated, sciatica can lead to permanent nerve damage - and lifelong pain.

MYTH: Pain is the only problem associated with sciatica.

FACT: In severe cases, sciatica can lead to the inability to control your bowels or bladder - leading to embarrassing situations.

MYTH: You must take pain medications to deal with sciatica.

FACT: Drugs like muscle relaxants, pain killers, narcotics, antidepressants, and anti-seizure medications have serious potential side-effects and do not cure the root cause of sciatica.

MYTH: “I must have done something wrong to get sciatica.”

FACT: Physical work or simply sitting at a desk for long periods can lead to sciatica. Accidents and trauma can also be the culprits. Pregnancy can cause sciatica.

Sciatica can affect anyone - including super-fit celebrities like Tiger Woods, Sylvester Stallone, and British Olympic medallist Ian Wynne.

MYTH: Stop exercising and get several weeks of bed rest to overcome sciatica.

FACT: Staying active can help to relieve sciatic pain and prevent the pain getting worse. Staying inactive in bed could be the worst advice - based on a recent study in the Netherlands.

MYTH: Sciatica requires surgery.

FACT: NO! There’s been a huge breakthrough in the treatment of sciatica and lower back pain. It’s a new procedure called Non-Surgical ReConstructive Spinal Care. The excellent results from this treatment have been published in major medical journals.

Success rates are up to 88%.

MYTH: “There’s nothing anyone can really do. I’m just stuck with this for the rest of my life.”

FACT: With the correct treatment from a healthcare professional who specialises in sciatica, you can find relief from the core cause - and the symptoms.

MYTH: Getting Sciatica properly diagnosed is expensive.

FACT: Not true. We are currently offering an initial consultation right here in Elmhurst for Just $43.

We have helped over 1,483 patients find relief from agonising back pain and sciatica. We are one of the first places to use Non-Surgical Re-

Constructive Spinal Care.

This procedure does not require a hospital stay. The focus is on finding - and correcting - the original cause of the back pain and sciatica.

According to Dr. Kelly, “We use a combination of ultra-advanced technology, not found elsewhere in the region, for precisely diagnosing the cause of your low back pain and sciatica. This means superior long-term results for most people.”

Because the treatment is non-surgical, safe, and easy, most patients report an almost immediately relief from their back pain.

Patient Jeff P. from Berwyn wrote, “My back pain was unbearable but the worst thing was the searing burning pain I felt in my buttock and leg... my wife insisted I see doctor Dr. Kelly. I’m 95% better in just a couple of weeks.”

Take the Next Step - END the Suffering... Initial Consultation Just $43 Call 630-941-8733 to schedule your appointment. Mention this article (CODE: IND43SCS12) Only 100 reader consultations are available at this exclusively discounted rate.

Call her office now and get a full and thorough examination to pinpoint the cause of your problem for just $43.

You can even call on the weekend as there is always a staff member ready to assist you. During the week they are very busy, so if they don’t pick up straight away do leave a message.

Call me at 630-941-8733 and let me take care of your sciatica!

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Thursday, Jan. 4, 2024

Employees from Total Quality Logistics of Lombard recently delivered several carloads of nonperishable food items to the York Township Food Pantry. The donation came in time to be distributed to families in need during the holidays. Supervisor John W. Valle said, “I would like to thank everyone at Total Quality Logistics for thinking about our residents during the holiday season. November and December are two of the toughest months for our food pantry clients. Families struggle to afford all the expenses of the holidays while making ends meet everywhere else—higher

Coming events

Program on AI at Villa Park Library Join the Villa Park Public Library on Thursday, Jan. 11 at 7 p.m. for a panel discussion on AI (artificial intelligence) and our future. The panel features three bestselling science fiction writers: Cory Doctorow, Ken Liu and Martha Wells. The promise, perils and potential impact that AI will have on our future, as well as AI in contemporary and future science fiction writing will be discussed.

This event is made possible by Illinois Libraries Present (ILP), a statewide collaboration among public libraries offering premier events. ILP is funded in part by a grant awarded by the Illinois State Library, a department of the Office of Secretary of State, using funds provided by the U.S. Institute of Museum and Library Services, under the provisions of the Library Services and Technology Act (LSTA). For more information, visit the library’s website at www.vppl.info or call 630834-1164.

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Village of Lombard Blood Drive Jan. 16 The Village of Lombard is holding a blood drive Tuesday, Jan. 16, from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. in the Versiti mobile bus parked on the lower level mall entrance by Von Maur, and from 1:30-7 p.m. at First Church of Lombard, 220 S. Maple St., Lombard.

Appointments are encouraged but walk-ins are welcome. Bring a photo ID. Donate blood and enter for a chance to win an SUV. Email Carol Bauer at bauerc@villageoflombard. org or visit www.versiti.org/IL to register.

heating bills, new winter clothes for growing kids and basic food and personal care items. We are extremely grateful for the continuous support from the employees at Total Quality Logistics year after year. Our community depends upon the kindness and generosity of local companies and agencies to support those in need.” Pictured (left to right) are TQL Broker Pat Doherty, Group Sales Managers Don McCarver and Alberto Estrada, York Township Food Pantry Director Angela Tanner, Valle, Broker Doug Albert and Group Sales Manager Alex Beres.

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Submitted PHOTO Rock Valley Publishing

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Helping stock pantry shelves

Rock Valley Publishing

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Rock Valley Publishing

Thursday, Jan. 4, 2024

EAM presents Gary Schirmer in solo artist show

Opening at the Elmhurst Art Museum (EAM) on Saturday, Jan. 20 will be a solo exhibition by artist Gary Schirmer entitled Antedated Foresights 2024: Forty Years of Aesthetic, and Social Observation. This retrospective of artwork by Gary Schirmer will remain on display through Friday, March 1. There will be an artist’s reception on Saturday, Feb. 3 from 6 – 8 p.m.

Gary Schirmer, a seasoned artist for four decades, brings three decades of expertise as a college-level studio art educator at the College of DuPage and Joliet Junior College. He is proficient in drawing, life drawing, painting, photography, and printmaking, also lectures in Art Appreciation. Schirmer’s professional journey spans commercial artistry,

illustration, scenic painting, and fabrication for film, TV and commercial photography. Notably, Schirmer has been a freelance scenic artist with Chicago’s local PBS station WTTW for 20 years.

As a fine artist, Schirmer initially focused on a representational/narrative style, exploring social and psychological themes within human relations, history and the post-modern context through painting, drawing, printmaking and photography. Recently, he has ventured into diverse mediums and mixed media, embracing a more formal and non-representational aesthetic.

The Elmhurst Art Museum is located inside Elmhurst’s Wilder Park.

For more information, visit ElmhurstArtMuseum.org.

Police Reports

The Addison and Bensenville police departments recently reported the following arrests and citations.

Persons who are charged with domestic battery are not named in order to protect the victim’s privacy.

Readers are reminded that an arrest does not constitute a conviction, and that suspects are considered innocent unless proven guilty in a court of law.

Juveniles age 17-or-younger are not named.

Addison Dec. 25 Nancy B. Villareal, 36, of Addison, was charged with resisting a police officer in the 200 block of Micheal Lane at 10:40 p.m.

A 27-year-old Addison man was charged with three counts of domestic battery and reckless conduct at 4 a.m.

A 33-year-old Bensenville man was charged with two counts of domestic battery in Addison.

Dec. 23 Sergio Nicholas Garcia Aguilar, 32, of Houston, Tex., was charged with methamphetamine in the 100 block of E. Oak at 9:16 p.m.

Dec. 22 Isidro M. Mendieta Armenta, 40, of Schiller Park, was charged with failure to reduce speed, improper left turn and two counts of DUI near Lake and Addison at 9:37 p.m.

Bensenville Dec. 21, 11:55 a.m. in the 1-100 block of S. York Road, a complainant reported an unknown suspect withdrew all the money from their bank account the same day her purse was stolen in a different town.

This incident is under investigation.

BEPC2301027 Dec. 25, 7:18 a.m. in the 800 block of W. Jefferson St., a 36-year-old Bensenville woman was arrested for domestic battery. BEPC2301034 Dec. 23, 2:49 p.m. in the 400 block of W. Irving Park Road, a complainant reported unknown suspects stole items from their company.

This incident is under investigation.

BEPC2301033 Dec. 22, 5:03 p.m. in the 800 block of County Line Road, Karla Elias-Gonzalez, 22, of Riverside, was arrested for driving while under the influence of alcohol and other traffic violations. She was given a court date and released. BEPC2301029

Railroad Museum to expand hours in 2024 Offers open house events every weekend through spring The Bensenville Park District announced an expansion of its Bensenville Railroad Museum open house events, inviting the public to step back in time and experience the allure of a bygone era from 12 to 4 p.m. each Saturday and Sunday through the spring.

“The open houses offer a captivating opportunity for attendees of all ages to immerse themselves in the world of locomotives,” said Fischer Farm manager Christine Shiel, who oversees the museum.

“Amidst the backdrop of Veterans Park, just south of the railroad tracks, visitors can explore a restored 1920s-era locomotive, a true testament to the rich history of our community’s railroads.”

Each open house event allows children to participate in new crafts and activities, offering an enjoyable and educational experience for everyone.

‘Train Tuesday’ Story Time added Additionally, the park district is offering Train Tuesday Story Time from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. each Tuesday.

Young children and home-school children are welcome to drop by for story time activities in this railroad-themed event. Groups of six or more should contact Shiel in advance at CShiel@ bvilleparks.org.

Admission to the Bensenville Train Museum free, aligning with the park district’s commitment to making history and cultural exploration accessible to all. Families, individuals and groups may join in taking in the experiences.

The Bensenville Railroad Museum is located at Veterans Park, at the crossroads of Church Road and Main Street in Bensenville. For more information, visit BvilleParks.org.

SUBMITTED PHOTO Rock Valley Publishing

This is a sample of the works of artist Gary Schirmer whose solo exhibition will be on display at the Elmhurst Art Museum from Saturday, Feb. 3 through Friday, March 1.

Migrants bus into DuPage; take train to Chicago shelters DuPage steps up, assures safe passage to asylum seekers

By Dee Longfellow FOR ROCK VALLEY PUBLISHING

According to the facebook page of the Elmhurst Police Department, a bus of 58 migrants from Texas stopped at the train station last week. Someone on board acting as a “leader” purchased Metra tickets for all passengers and they boarded the 9:13 p.m. train to Chicago.

Everyone remained on the bus until the train arrived Elmhurst police and fire personnel were on hand at the station to help coordinate the group and answer questions.

Later, there was an update indicating that an unscheduled bus with 33 migrants from Texas, reportedly stopped at the Elmhurst train station.

That group boarded the 11:15 p.m.

Metra train to Chicago.

In addition, the Village of Clarendon Hills released a statement that it

had received reports of migrant buses dropping people off at both the Hinsdale and Westmont Metra stations for transportation to shelters in downtown Chicago. Clarendon Hills said there had been “no known issues” and that people had boarded the trains, however, the Village temporarily closed the train station and shelters and increased police patrols.

County assures safe passage for asylum seekers The DuPage County Office of Homeland Security and Emergency Management (OHSEM) is working closely with local and regional partners to ensure asylum seekers who have been arriving on out-of-state buses are transported to the city of Chicago.

“Our primary goal is to help these new arrivals get to their destination in the city as safely, and with as few de-

lays, as possible,” said County Board Chair Deb Conroy. “We are grateful for the collaboration with state, regional, and local officials, who have been enormously helpful in ensuring the safety and security of those arriving in DuPage County, as well as our residents.”

Since Dec. 14, 49 buses have arrived at train stations in DuPage County containing 2,081 passengers, according to DuPage OHSEM. They boarded trains to Chicago, where city teams guided them to Chicago’s “landing zone,” which is the only designated location in the state of Illinois for asylum seekers.

Residents who would like to assist asylum seekers by donating food, clothing, or small household items or to learn more about the requirements for sheltering, visit chicago.gov/support.

Addison Center for the Arts presents ‘There and Back (and Back Again)’

Solo exhibition by Joseph Hladik opens Jan. 10

The Addison Center for the Arts has announced the upcoming opening of “There and Back (and Back Again),” a solo exhibition featuring the mixed media works of Joseph Hladik. Opening Wednesday, Jan. 10 and remaining through Saturday, Feb. 17, the exhibition includes an artist’s reception on Saturday, Jan. 13 from 6 to 8 p.m. The reception is open to the public.

Joseph Hladik is known for blending various mediums and styles into evocative art. Trained at the School of the Art Institute of Chicago, he has showcased his work in numerous solo and group exhibitions, merging traditional techniques with modern concepts.

“We are thrilled to host Joseph

Hladik’s solo exhibition at the Addison Center for the Arts,” said communications director Julie Mars.

“His work exudes a young, tactile, and lighthearted charisma, drawing viewers into a nostalgic reverie.”

Hladik’s show, “There and Back (and Back Again),” invites art enthusiasts on an evocative trip down Memory Lane, weaving mementos and emotionally charged ephemera into his sculptures.

“As an artist and storyteller, I explore connections between identity, memories, and shared experiences,” he said. “Nostalgia anchors my work, encouraging nuanced perceptions of the past. I aim to create art that is both familiar and unexpected, challenging our understanding of self.”

The exhibition explores the intricate relationship between time, memory and physical objects. Using familiar materials and playful compositions, Hladik invites viewers to reflect on their own experiences and consider nostalgia’s role in shaping identity.

Joseph Hladik, an artist and educator based in the Chicagoland area, graduated from the University of Missouri and holds an MA in Art Education from the School of the Art Institute of Chicago.

The Addison Center for the Arts, located at 213 N. Lombard Rd., Door #4, in Addison, IL (annexed to Addison Trail High School), offers free admission to the exhibition and the artist reception.

Thursday, Jan. 4, 2024

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Giannoulias announces grants to support public school libraries Grant funds will support student learning by providing valuable resources and services

Secretary of State and State Librarian Alexi Giannoulias is awarding more than $1.4 million to qualifying public school districts to the benefit of 2,713 school libraries throughout Illinois.

The grants, awarded once every fiscal year, will support school library services for 1.2 million students en-

rolled in kindergarten through 12th grade.

Resources and services provided through the grant include library books, e-books, audiobooks, periodicals, multilingual materials, technology and programs.

“It’s imperative that all Illinois students have access to necessary re-

Coming events GPS program Jan. 11 The Glenbard Parent Series: (GPS) Navigating Healthy Families will present “Changeable: The Collaborative Problem-Solving Method to Reduce Anxiety or Challenging Behavior” with best-selling author and clinical psychologist J. Stuart Ablon in two 90-minute Zoom webinars at noon and 7 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 11. Go to glenbardgps.org for further information and the links to these webinars.

sources including reading materials and learning services at our public school libraries,” Giannoulias said.

“School libraries serve as places of learning and discovery. These funds will ensure that our libraries are wellequipped to educate and inspire our future generations.”

Based on a statutory formula,

school districts receive $0.885 per student for their enrollment at each school having a qualified library.

Funding for the program originates from the General Reserve Fund and is appropriated for this purpose by the Illinois General Assembly.

Among the schools to receive grants are: Addison School District

4, $2,893.21; DuPage High School District 88, $3,320.72; Bensenville Elementary School District 2, $1,672.65; Fenton Community High School District 100, $1,202.32; Glenbard Township District 87, $6.683.52; Lombard Elementary School District 44, $2,471.81; and Lombard/Villa Park School District 45, $2,638.36.

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Plum Library programs Aging in Place Wednesday, Jan. 10, at 7 p.m. Carrie Chavez of Senior Helpers will provide information on an assessment that helps individuals identify safety risks that would impede their goal of aging in their current residence. Topics include physical safety, managing medical conditions, and the importance of continued social interaction. Register at helenplum. org or by calling 630-627-0316.

Speculating our AI Future with Cory Doctorow, Ken Liu, and Martha Wells. Thursday, Jan. 11 at 7 p.m.

Illinois Libraries Present brings you a live virtual discussion featuring three bestselling science fiction writers: Cory Doctorow, Ken Liu, and Martha Wells. Learn about the promise, perils, and possible impacts that AI will have on our future, as well as in science fiction writing. Register to receive the Zoom link at helenplum. org.

Single mothers group to meet Jan. 14 SHE Single Mothers Support Group Monthly Event on Sunday, Jan. 14, 12:15 p.m. at Elmhurst Christian Reformed Church, 149 W. Brush Hill Road. We offer a complimentary lunch for all who attend, free child care (ages infants-12 years) and support from other single mothers.

All are invited to attend the “Taxes Workshop” being offered this month.

RSVP to elmhurstcrc.org/she.

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Unions look to state for solutions after year of higher ed labor action

By Andrew Adams CAPITOL NEWS ILLINOIS

At public universities across the state, staff and faculty unions have faced a contentious year of negotiations and, in some cases, strikes.

Pay has been a major issue on several campuses and the unions are now looking to Springfield for potential reforms to the state’s higher education funding.

At Southern Illinois University Edwardsville, negotiations are ongoing between campus leadership and the union that represents clerical workers.

Amy Bodenstab, who works as an office manager in the Department of Teaching and Learning, also picks up weekend shifts at a local domestic violence shelter and contract work in data analytics to make ends meet.

She is on the bargaining team of AFSCME Local 2887, which has been without a contract since June 2022. She said the low pay and perceived lack of respect has resulted in high turnover rates, hampering university staff’s ability to do their jobs. She said it’s especially troubling because of the complexity of the positions her union represents, which can involve financial management, purchasing, scheduling and more.

“If you’re staff, you’re treated as ‘less than,’ ” Bodenstab told Capitol News Illinois.

Nicole Franklin, a spokesperson for the university, declined to comment specifically on the ongoing negotiations but said the university “continues to bargain in good faith” with the union.

But Bodenstab’s experience is echoed on other campuses around Illinois.

In mid-November, dozens of building services, clerical and culinary staff at Eastern Illi-

nois University held an “informational picket” as negotiations continued between the local union and administrators at the Charleston campus.

“The number one issue is pay,” Kim Pope, an office manager and the head of the local union, said.

Negotiations between the building services workers at Northern Illinois University are also ongoing. The head of the union there, Patrick Sheridan, also said pay is the focus of negotiations.

Research published this fall by the Illinois Economic policy Institute, a think tank with strong ties to organized labor, found that pay for staff at state universities is 21 percent less than the rate paid to employees at state agencies who are performing the same or similar work.

When controlling for hours worked, occupation and several demographic factors, the research found the average staff pay at state universities is 14 percent less than at state agencies.

Robert Bruno, a University of Illinois professor in the School of Labor and Employment Relations and lead author of that report, said these trends made him consider the impact on staff morale.

“You worry about turnover, about positions not being filled, about if people don’t feel regarded or respected,” Bruno said.

He also noted these trends could be explained by an ongoing trend in higher education.

“It starts to look like a more for-profit model,” he said. “Part of that is a lack of support at the state level.”

That research and recent university staff negotiations have led union organizations to begin

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planning a bigger request to the state in next year’s budget talks – an ask that could prove challenging as early estimates from Gov. JB Pritzker’s budgeting office project a revenue shortfall for the upcoming fiscal year.

“We’ll be pushing for an appropriation that can be earmarked for wages,” Anders Lindall, a spokesperson for the statewide AFSCME organization, said.

He specifically pointed to Bruno’s research as part of the reasoning for this push.

“We’re going to be talking to legislators about these systemic pay gaps,” he said.

AFSCME is one of the most powerful lobbying organizations in Illinois. In the 2022 election cycle, AFSCME, through its state council and national organization, spent $2.6 million on campaign contributions and expenditures around the state. That includes over $300,000 each in contributions to House Speaker Emanuel “Chris” Welch, D-Hillside, and Senate President Don Harmon, D-Oak Park.

In addition to staff negotiations, the past 12 months have seen a wave of strikes led by faculty unions. In January, faculty at the University of Illinois Chicago struck for five days.

In April, faculty at Chicago State University, Governors State University and Eastern Illinois University all went on overlapping strikes, lasting between five and 13 days. Northeastern Illinois University authorized a strike, although the faculty union there never formally struck.

In private higher ed, Columbia College Chicago faculty also went on an unusually long strike which lasted all of November and ended in mid-December.

Dan Montgomery, head of the Illinois Federation of Teachers, said after the Columbia strike ended that he had “never seen anything like it in any other year.”

“We’re a strong labor state. I think those trends

you’re seeing play out in Illinois are playing out around the country,” Montgomery told Capitol News Illinois. “We’re just better organized.”

Montgomery said he is “cautiously optimistic” that a new funding model being developed by the Commission on Equitable Public University Funding could help alleviate some of the problems that led to the strikes.

The commission, which was created by the General Assembly in 2021, is tasked with developing a new model for funding higher education. The legislature charged the commission with “remediating inequities” in the higher education system that have led to disparities in access for underrepresented students such as Black and Hispanic students and those who come from low-income families.

The commission’s work is ongoing but was delayed by this summer’s U.S. Supreme Court decision about affirmative action and race in higher education. While the commission’s work is likely not going to impact next year’s budget, it could create a drastic shift in the long term.

The model being developed will be similar to the funding formula used for K-12 schools in Illinois, which was rolled out in 2017. The K-12 model calls for an added $350 million in funding each year and sets a funding adequacy target for each district. It then directs greater portions of the new funding to the schools furthest from their adequacy target.

While the commission has not finalized a formula, some draft meeting materials presented at the board’s November meeting suggest it would require as much as an overall $14,000 per-student increase in state appropriations to fully fund higher education. With 130,000 undergraduates and 56,000 graduate students enrolled at state universities this year, these numbers suggest the needed funding increase could reach into the billions.

Rock Valley Publishing

Page 11

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Rock Valley Publishing

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Page 14

Rock Valley Publishing

Thursday, Jan. 4, 2024

Sports

Broncos win title at Christmas tournament Kerstein, who scored 21 points in the championship game, named the event’s MVP The Montini Catholic girls basketball team won four games in four days and claimed the championship at its own 12-team Christmas tournament, which ended on Friday. The Broncos defeated St. Charles East 54-46 in Friday’s championship contest. Montini moved its overall season record to 12-4 with that victory.

The Broncos opened their holiday tournament with a 55-45 win over St. Charles East in a shootout game on Dec. 26. Montini then beat Naperville North 53-41 in a tournament quarterfinal on Dec. 27. The Broncos earned a 59-52 win over Benet Academy in a semifinal battle on Dec. 28.

Montini junior Nikki Kerstein was named the tournament’s most valuable player. Kerstein delivered a standout performance in the championship game, when she scored a team-leading 21 points. She also provided five rebounds, four assists and two steals in Friday’s contest.

Kerstein made four free throws during the game’s final minute to help the Broncos secure their victory.

“It feels amazing to win our own tournament, and have these competitive teams come here,” said Kerstein after her spectacular effort in the championship battle. “It means a lot to us.”

Montini’s Dec. 26 shootout contest against St. Charles East didn’t figure into the tournament outcome.

It was one of the games that was scheduled to allow all 12 tournament teams to play four games each in the event. Four teams—Montini, St. Charles East, Benet Academy and St. Francis—received firstround byes in the tournament.

The Saints led the Broncos 10-8 after one quarter of the Dec. 26 meeting. St. Charles East held a 2520 lead at halftime. Montini rallied to take a 37-33 lead by the end of the third quarter.

Kerstein made three shots from 3-point range in the third quarter of the Dec. 26 battle against the Saints. She scored 13 of Montini’s 17 third-quarter points. Kerstein, who did not score in the first half of the game, added three more points in the fourth quarter to provide a team-leading 16 points. She also contributed five steals and three assists.

Montini senior Alyssa Epps scored 14 points in her team’s Dec. 26 win over St. Charles East. Epps netted six points in the fourth quarter. Senior Victoria Matulevicius added 12 points and 10 rebounds for the Broncos. Matulevicius scored eight points in the fourth quarter.

Junior Shea Carver contributed eight points for Montini in its first game of the holiday tournament.

Junior Peyton Farrell added five points.

The Broncos led Naperville North 14-13 after one quarter of last week’s quarterfinal contest. Montini raised its lead to 26-17 by halftime.

The Broncos’ lead swelled to 45-24 by the end of the third quarter.

Carver sank two 3-point attempts and scored a team-high 14 points in Montini’s Dec. 27 win over Naperville North. Three Broncos— Epps, Matulevicius and junior Lily Spanos—scored nine points each.

Kerstein added eight points. Senior Riley White and junior Lauren Mellish supplied two points each.

Montini jumped out to a 19-8 lead after one quarter of its semifinal matchup against Benet Academy on Dec. 28. The Redwings, who connected on five 3-point shots in the second quarter, trailed the Broncos 31-23 at halftime. Montini led Benet 45-38 with eight minutes to play.

Matulevicius piled up nine baskets, including one shot from 3-point range, and scored a team-leading 19 points in the Broncos’ semifinal win over Benet. Kerstein, who made a pair of 3-point shots in the first quarter, provided 18 points and eight assists. Carver, who sank two 3-point attempts, scored 12 points.

Epps added eight points, while Farrell tallied two points with a pair of first-quarter free throws.

St. Charles East led Montini 11-6 after one quarter of Friday’s championship battle. The Saints held a 23-22 halftime lead. The back-andforth third quarter featured multiple lead changes. A basket from Kerstein gave the Broncos a 35-34 lead with less than two minutes left in the quarter. The Saints scored to take a 36-35 lead with about 1:30 remaining in the quarter.

Spanos closed the third quarter by sinking two critical 3-point shots to give Montini a 41-36 lead with eight minutes to play. Spanos drained a 3-point attempt to give the Broncos a 38-36 advantage with a little more than one minute left in the third quarter. Her next longrange shot pushed Montini’s lead to 41-36 in the closing seconds of the quarter.

“I come off the bench, and I know my role is to play good defense and shoot when I’m open,” said Spanos, who is the daughter of Montini head coach Shannon Spanos, after the game. “Tonight I went in there for a couple of minutes and did my job.”

“All these girls work so hard, and they all deserve opportunities,” stated Shannon Spanos after Friday’s victory. “Lily had her opportunity tonight, and she rose to the occasion. She’s a very good shooter. She has confidence in herself, and we have confidence in her.”

Montini held a 45-37 lead with 4:30 left in the game. The Saints then went on a 9-2 run that ended with a 3-point basket that trimmed the Broncos’ lead to 47-46 with 2:10

“

She’s the ultimate point guard. She makes everyone on the floor better. She handles our offense. She rebounds. She gets steals. She’s an allaround great player.”

– Shannon Spanos, Montini Catholic coach

to play.

Montini finished the game with a 7-0 run that featured seven free throws. Matulevicius made one free throw with 1:03 remaining. Kerstein drained four free throws during the final minute. She made a pair of free throws with 37 seconds on the clock.

She made two more shots from the foul line with 15.7 seconds to play.

“I think I do fine in pressure situations,” said Kerstein. “I’ve been doing it for awhile. I’m able to keep my composure and kind of control the tempo of the game.”

“She’s the ultimate point guard,” said Shannon Spanos of Kerstein.

“She makes everyone on the floor better. She handles our offense. She rebounds. She gets steals. She’s an all-around great player.”

Carver closed out the scoring when she sank two free throws with 1.9 seconds remaining.

Matulevicius, who was named to the event’s All-Tournament First Team, scored 14 points in the championship game. Carver provided nine points. Spanos contributed six points with her pair of 3-point baskets in the third quarter. Epps supplied four points.

Montini will face Evanston in this Saturday’s Grow the Game Showcase contest at Hinsdale Central High School.

Chris Fox photos Rock Valley Publishing

The Montini Catholic girls basketball team won the title at its own Christmas tournament last week. The Broncos defeated St. Charles East 54-46 in Friday’s championship game of the 12-team event. Montini won four straight games in the tournament to improve its overall season record to 12-4. Junior Nikki Kerstein (No. 3 - above left) of the Broncos was named the tournament’s most valuable player. Kerstein scored a team-high 21 points in the championship contest. Montini senior Victoria Matulevicius (No. 5 - above right) was named to the event’s All-Tournament First Team. Matulevicius scored 14 points in Friday’s win over St. Charles East. Junior Lily Spanos of the Broncos made a pair of 3-point shots late in third quarter. Spanos (No. 20 - below) is pictured while being congratulated by her teammates at the end of that quarter. Montini trailed the Saints 36-35 before Spanos drained the two long-range shots to give her team a 41-36 lead with eight minutes to play. Spanos is the daughter of Montini head coach Shannon Spanos. “We’re playing really well as a team,” said the coach after Friday’s win. “We’re playing for each other, and the girls are stepping up.”

Thursday, Jan. 4, 2024

Rock Valley Publishing

Page 15

Broncos win three straight games, finish fifth at holiday tournament Montini completes the event with Saturday’s double-overtime victory over IC Catholic Prep

The Montini Catholic boys basketball team won three of four games and placed fifth in the 12-team IC Catholic Prep/Westmont Christmas Classic, which ended on Saturday.

The Broncos held an overall season record of 5-10 at the end of the holiday tournament.

Montini, which played all four of its tournament games at Westmont High School, started the event with a 70-59 loss to Christ the King Jesuit College Preparatory School of Chicago on Dec. 26.

Christ the King went on to win the tournament title. The Gladiators beat Glenbard South 58-40 in Saturday’s championship game.

One day after losing to Christ the King, Montini defeated Reavis 42-33.

The Broncos finished pool play with that contest. Montini finished second in its three-team pool and joined the tournament’s three other second-place teams (Westmont, Willowbrook and IC Catholic Prep) in the following round.

Montini earned a 44-40 win over Westmont on Friday. The Broncos completed the tournament with Saturday’s 55-53 double-overtime victory over IC Catholic Prep.

Montini led Christ the King 9-6 through one quarter of the Dec. 26 matchup in Westmont. Christ the King owned a 31-27 lead at halftime. The Broncos led the Gladiators 43-42 at the end of the third quarter.

Montini senior Danny Petersen sank a 3-point shot to cut Christ the King’s lead to 53-52 in the middle of the fourth quarter. The Gladiators, who held a slim 58-54 lead with less than three minutes to play, made several free throws late in the game to earn their double-digit victory.

Petersen made five shots from 3-point range and scored a team-leading 17 points for the Broncos in their loss to Christ the King. Senior Tyler Pavlik provided 10 points for Montini.

Senior Maddox Shepherd added nine points, while senior Nick Lombardi

contributed six points. Juniors Dillon Bagley and Max Bell scored five points each for the Broncos.

Montini led Reavis 20-15 after one quarter of the teams’ Dec. 27 contest.

Montini held a 28-19 halftime lead.

Reavis went on a 9-0 run to even the score at 30-30 during the third quarter. Montini then scored two baskets to take a 34-30 lead by the end of the third quarter.

Reavis made a 3-point shot to cut the Broncos’ lead to 36-33 with about 7:10 to play. Reavis did not score for the rest of the game.

Shepherd, who made four free throws in the fourth quarter, scored a team-high 11 points for the Broncos in their win over Reavis. Pavlik provided nine points. He scored all nine of those points in the first quarter. Bell added six points.

Westmont led Montini 6-5 after one quarter of Friday evening’s contest.

The Sentinels led the Broncos 19-16 at halftime and 31-28 at the end of the third quarter.

Montini unleashed a quick 7-0 burst in the fourth quarter of Friday’s game to take the lead. Petersen drove for a basket to cut Westmont’s lead to 32-31 with 6:10 to play. Moments later, after a Westmont turnover, Bagley sank a 3-point shot to give the Broncos a 34-32 lead with about 5:55 remaining. Seconds after making the longrange shot, Bagley delivered a steal and breakaway basket to push Montini’s lead to 36-32.

Westmont scored the next four points to tie the score at 36-36 with less than four minutes to play. Pavlik then scored two baskets in the closing minutes. Junior Drew Church and Bagley added one field goal each to help Montini to its four-point win.

Bagley scored 10 points in the Broncos’ win over Westmont. Petersen made two 3-point shots and contributed eight points. Junior Jack Barrett scored seven points, while Shepherd netted six points. Pavlik scored all five of his points in the fourth quarter.

Chris Fox photos Rock Valley Publishing

Montini Catholic’s boys basketball team won three of four games and finished fifth in the 12-team IC Catholic Prep/Westmont Christmas Classic. The Broncos lost their first game of the event before picking up three straight victories. Montini finished the tournament with Saturday’s 55-53 double-overtime win over IC Catholic Prep in Westmont. Senior Danny Petersen (No. 43) of the Broncos made five 3-point shots and scored 26 points in Saturday’s fifth-place battle. Senior Maddox Shepherd (No. 1) scored 11 points in Montini’s win over the Knights. Shepherd made what turned out to be the game-winning shot when he sank an outside attempt to break a 53-53 tie in the closing seconds of the second overtime period. Montini improved its overall season record to 5-10 with Saturday’s victory.

Petersen drained three shots from 3-point range during the first half of Saturday’s fifth-place contest against IC Catholic Prep. Petersen scored 12 points during the first quarter, helping Montini to an 18-12 lead after eight minutes of action. The Broncos led the Knights 29-26 at halftime and 40-35 at the end of the third quarter.

Montini held a 45-37 lead with less than six minutes to play in the fourth quarter. The Knights closed the quarter with a 9-1 run to tie the score at

46-46 and send the game to overtime.

Lombardi and Petersen made two free throws each during the first four-minute overtime period. The Broncos and Knights were deadlocked at 50-50 at the end of that period.

Petersen’s three-point play gave Montini a 53-50 lead in the second overtime. The Knights tied the battle with a three-point play of their own.

Shepherd delivered the game-winning basket by connecting on a long-range shot with a few seconds to play.

After taking a timeout, the Knights missed a desperation shot from near the half-court line at the buzzer.

Petersen made five shots from 3-point range and scored 26 points in Saturday’s win. Shepherd supplied 11 points. Barrett and Church contributed seven and five points, respectively.

Montini’s schedule this week includes a contest against Dunbar in Chicago, along with a battle at St. Edward and this Saturday’s home game against Lisle.

Rams win two of four games at Sandburg’s holiday tournament The Glenbard East girls basketball team played four games at last week’s holiday tournament at Sandburg High School in Orland Park.

The Rams won two of their four games at the event and earned an 11th-place finish in the 16-team tournament. Glenbard East’s overall season record stood at 12-5 at the end of the competition.

The Rams began the 2023 Sand-

Carney named to all-tournament team

burg Holiday Classic with a 46-38 loss to Minooka on Dec. 27. Later that day, Glenbard East defeated Richards 67-39.

The Rams lost 50-43 to Andrew on Dec. 28. Glenbard East completed the tournament at Sandburg with a 53-46 victory over Plainfield East on Friday, Dec. 29.

The Rams trailed Minooka 16-11 through one quarter of the first-round

game at the tournament. Minooka led the Rams 22-13 at halftime and 2823 at the end of the third quarter.

Senior Catey Carney scored 17 points for the Rams in last week’s loss to Minooka. Junior Veronica Witt provided 11 points for Glenbard East.

The Rams held a 14-13 lead over Richards in the teams’ Dec. 27 meeting at Sandburg. Glenbard East ex-

panded its lead to 33-22 by halftime.

The Rams’ lead grew to 55-35 by the end of the third quarter.

Senior Ciara Johnson made four 3-point shots and scored a teamhigh 18 points for Glenbard East in its victory over Richards. Carney, who drained three shots from 3-point range, added 17 points. Senior Livia Robbins contributed 10 points for the Rams.

Glenbard East owned a 16-12 lead through one quarter of its Dec. 28 game against Andrew. The Rams scored only two points in the second quarter and trailed Andrew 23-18 at halftime. Andrew held a 36-28 lead at the end of the third quarter.

Carney scored a team-high 16 points for the Rams in their loss to

See TOURNAMENT, Page 16

Rams suffer four straight losses at York’s holiday event The Glenbard East boys basketball team played four games in four days at last week’s Jack Tosh Holiday Classic at York High School in Elmhurst. The Rams lost all four of their games at the 16-team tournament. Glenbard East’s overall season record stood at 4-12 at the end of the event.

The Rams opened the holiday tournament with a 72-44 loss to Glenbrook South on Dec. 26. One

day later, Glenbard East suffered a 75-57 loss to Downers Grove South.

Hansberry College Prep of Chicago edged the Rams 71-70 on Dec. 28.

In its final game at the tournament, Glenbard East lost 58-46 to Highland Park on Friday, Dec. 29.

Sophomore Michael Nee scored 10 points for the Rams in last week’s loss to Glenbrook South. Senior Aleks Jajic and sophomore Danny Snyder added eight points each for

Glenbard East, which trailed Glenbrook South 20-11 after one quarter and 36-18 at halftime. Senior Ari Pierson supplied seven points and six rebounds for the Rams. Sophomore Norman Loechel contributed six points for Glenbard East.

Downers Grove South led the Rams 19-13 after one quarter and 31-27 at halftime of last week’s contest in Elmhurst. The Mustangs held a 51-44 lead at the end of the third

quarter.

Nee made three of 12 attempts from 3-point range and scored a team-high 18 points in Glenbard East’s loss to Downers Grove South.

Snyder, who sank two of 12 shots from 3-point territory, provided 14 points. Junior Devin Kraft scored 10 points for the Rams. Pierson added five points.

Hansberry College Prep led the Rams 21-17 after one quarter and 39-

36 at halftime. Hansberry held a 5554 lead at the end of the third quarter.

A layup by junior Mateo Villalvazo gave the Rams a 65-60 lead over Hansberry with about five minutes left in the game. Hansberry then scored eight straight points to take a 68-65 lead. Nee sank a 3-point shot to tie the game at 68-68 with a little less than two minutes to play.

See LOSSES, Page 16

Page 16

Rock Valley Publishing

Thursday, Jan. 4, 2024

Warriors split four games at ICCP/Westmont Christmas Classic Willowbrook concludes the tournament with a win over Westmont

The Willowbrook boys basketball team won two of four games and finished seventh in the 12-team IC Catholic Prep/Westmont Christmas Classic, which ended on Saturday. The Warriors’ overall season record stood at 6-7 at the conclusion of the tournament.

Willowbrook began the holiday event with a 54-51 victory over Chicago’s Leo High School in Elmhurst on Dec. 26. Two days later, the Warriors lost 76-49 to Chicago’s Taft High School in another game played at IC Catholic Prep. Willowbrook lost 6754 to IC Catholic Prep in Friday’s contest on the Knights’ home court in Elmhurst. The Warriors completed the tournament with Saturday’s 62-46 win over Westmont on the Sentinels’ home court in Westmont.

Willowbrook built a 14-11 lead over Leo through one quarter of last week’s first-round contest in Elmhurst.

The Warriors held a 31-21 halftime lead, but Leo rallied to tie the score at 40-40 by the end of the third quarter.

Sophomore Otis Powell scored 13 points and snared four rebounds for the Warriors in last week’s win over Leo. Senior Andrew Ciesinski provided 11 points, eight rebounds and five blocked shots in Willowbrook’s narrow victory. Sophomore Jaylen Griffin scored seven points and handed out three assists for the Warriors. Junior Filip Palutkiewicz supplied six points, six rebounds and three steals. Junior Jaden Royal contributed six points, four rebounds and three assists. Senior Kenyon Rhodes and junior Feim Alka supplied six and three points, respec-

tively.

Willowbrook trailed Taft 21-8 through one quarter of last week’s contest in Elmhurst. Taft led the Warriors 42-24 at halftime and 67-42 at the end of the third quarter.

Ciesinski scored a team-leading 15 points in the loss to Taft, which left Willowbrook with a 1-1 record in its three-team pool in the event. The Warriors finished second in their pool and joined the tournament’s three other second-place teams (IC Catholic Prep, Westmont and Montini Catholic) in the next round of action.

Ciesinski also compiled eight rebounds, three blocked shots and two assists against Taft. Powell provided nine points, 10 rebounds, two assists and two steals. Rhodes and Griffin scored six and five points, respectively.

Palutkiewicz and senior Justin Wade contributed four points each.

IC Catholic Prep led the Warriors 16-15 after one quarter and 32-28 at halftime of Friday’s contest in Elmhurst. The Knights led the Warriors 4940 at the end of the third quarter.

Palutkiewicz scored 15 points and grabbed four rebounds for Willowbrook in Friday’s loss to IC Catholic Prep. Royal provided 13 points, five rebounds and three steals. Ciesinski contributed 11 points and 13 rebounds.

Palutkiewicz made a pair of 3-point shots in the opening quarter of Saturday’s game against Westmont. He also made two free throws during the first quarter to help the Warriors to a 1510 lead after eight minutes of action.

Willowbrook led the Sentinels 30-20 at halftime and 52-35 at the end of the third quarter.

Palutkiewicz scored a team-leading 16 points in Saturday’s win over Westmont. He also supplied five rebounds, four assists and three steals. Royal contributed 11 points and four steals.

Rhodes provided nine points, four rebounds, three assists and three steals.

Senior Noah Boyd tallied eight points, four assists and three steals. Ciesinski delivered seven points, 12 rebounds and two blocked shots.

The Warriors will resume their West

Suburban Gold Conference season with this Friday’s home game against Leyden. The contest will begin at 5 p.m. Willowbrook will enter the battle against the Eagles with a conference record of 1-2.

The Warriors will represent their conference in this Saturday’s one-day WSC/MSL (Mid-Suburban League) Challenge at Addison Trail. Willowbrook will face Hoffman Estates in a battle that will start at 2 p.m. Saturday’s event in Addison will feature three other games (Leyden vs. Elk Grove, Morton vs. Buffalo Grove and Addison Trail vs. Wheeling).

Chris Fox photos Rock Valley Publishing submitted photo Rock Valley Publishing

Successful road trip for Broncos

The Montini Catholic wrestling team competed in last week’s Marge and Tate Invite, a dual-meet tournament at Grandville High School, near Grand Rapids, Michigan. The Broncos opened the Dec. 28 event with a 54-21 victory over Michigan’s Cedar Springs High School. Montini then edged Grandville 34-33 and outscored Michigan’s Byron Center High School 37-36 before beating Michigan’s Bedford High School 38-36 in the championship contest. Bedford is one of the highest-ranked teams in Michigan’s largest class (Division 4). Montini raised its overall season dual-meet record to 12-1 with its wins in Michigan. “The tournament victory in Michigan was a total team effort,” said Montini coach Mike Bukovsky. “We were missing five starters from our regular lineup, and every guy sucked it up and did a great job to pull everything together and win the championship.” Montini’s standout wrestlers in last week’s meet in Michigan included freshman Bobby Ruscitti, freshman Isaac Mayora, junior Josh Vazquez, sophomore Kam Luif, senior David Mayora, sophomore Santino Tenuta, sophomore A.J. Tack, senior Alex Marre and junior Jaxon Lane.

• Losses

(Continued from page 15)

Moments later, Pierson made a steal and drove the length of the court for a basket that gave the Rams a 70-68 lead. Hansberry evened the score at 70-70 with 1:20 remaining.

After Nee missed a last-second shot from the baseline, Glenbard was called for a foul with seven-tenths of a second on the clock. Hansberry junior Al Brooks went to the freethrow line.

He missed his first attempt but made the second shot to give his team a 71-70 lead.

After a timeout, Glenbard East tossed a desperation pass down the court. Hansberry intercepted the pass to end the game.

Nee connected on five of eight 3-point attempts and scored a team-leading 24 points in the Rams’ one-point loss to Hansberry. Nee also grabbed eight rebounds during the

game. Jajic piled up 13 points and seven rebounds in the contest. Villalvazo scored 12 points for the Rams.

Snyder contributed nine points, while Pierson scored five points.

Highland Park led Glenbard East 9-6 after one quarter and 20-17 at halftime of Friday’s contest. Highland Park owned a 40-36 lead at the end of the third quarter.

Nee buried seven of 11 attempts from 3-point range and scored a team-high 22 points in the Rams’ final game at last week’s tournament in Elmhurst. Jajic and Snyder contributed eight points each. Villalvazo added four points, while Pierson and Kraft scored two points each.

Glenbard East’s season continues with today’s Upstate Eight Conference home game against Elgin. The Rams enter the contest with a 4-2 conference record.

• Tournament

(Continued from page 15)

Andrew. She sank a pair of 3-point shots during the fourth quarter, when she scored a total of 10 points.

Glenbard East trailed Plainfield East 18-7 through one quarter of the Dec. 29 contest at Sandburg.

The Rams erupted for 30 points in the second quarter and took a 37-30 halftime lead. Carney connected on three 3-point shots during the second quarter.

Johnson made a pair of 3-point baskets in the quarter. Glenbard East freshman Lilly Carver drained one 3-point attempt in the second quarter.

The Rams led Plainfield East 4237 at the end of the third quarter. Senior Gabby Walton scored three baskets during the fourth quarter to help Glenbard East finish the tournament with a victory.

Carney made four 3-point shots and scored 16 points in the Rams’

win over Plainfield East. Walton provided 14 points with seven field goals. Johnson contributed 12 points.

Carver supplied six points. Freshman Teagan Murphy added four points, while Robbins scored one point by making a free throw during the fourth quarter.

Carney was named to the event’s all-tournament team.

The Rams will resume their Upstate Eight Conference season with today’s home game against Elgin.

Glenbard East enters the game against the Maroons with a conference record of 7-0.

This Friday, Jan. 5, Glenbard East will host four games in the Grow the Game Showcase. The Rams will play in one of those four contests. They will face Providence Catholic in a battle that is scheduled to tip off at 2:30 p.m.

Willowbrook’s boys basketball team won two of four games and placed seventh in last week’s 12team IC Catholic Prep/Westmont Christmas Classic. The Warriors completed the event with Saturday’s 62-46 win over Westmont on the Sentinels’ home court in Westmont. Junior Filip Palutkiewicz (No. 23 - left) scored a team-high 16 points for Willowbrook in Saturday’s win. Junior Jaden Royal (No. 11 - above) added 11 points for the Warriors, who raised their overall season record to 6-7 with the victory. Willowbrook’s season continues with this Friday’s West Suburban Gold Conference home game against Leyden. The Warriors will enter the contest with a conference record of 1-2.

LEGAL NOTICES

NOTICE CERTIFICATE NO. 79296 was filed in the office of the County Clerk of DuPage County on DECEMBER 20, 2023 wherein the business firm of CARTER’S MUSIC AND PRODUCTION, 123 OLD PLANK ROAD, BENSENVILLE, IL 60106 was registered; that the true or real name or names of the person or persons owning the business, with their respective post office address(es), is/ are as follows: Clifford Carter, 123 Old Plank Road, Bensenville, IL 60106.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand and Official Seal at my office in Wheaton, Illinois, this 20TH day of DECEMBER, A.D. 2023.

Jean Kaczmarek DuPage County Clerk (Published in The Lombardian Jan. 4, 11 & 18, 2024) 449326

Thursday, Jan. 4, 2024

Rock Valley Publishing

Page 17

Warriors post 2-2 record at Wheaton North’s holiday event Willowbrook closes tournament with win over Elk Grove in the 11th-place game matchup at Wheaton North. The two teams were tied at 19-19 at halftime.

The Blackhawks outscored Willowbrook 11-4 in the third quarter to build a 30-23 lead with eight minutes to play.

Gusman scored 10 points for the

Warriors in their loss to West Aurora.

Medinger netted seven points in the game. Bruschuk added six points and seven rebounds.

Willowbrook led Elk Grove 1311 after one quarter of Friday afternoon’s 11th-place contest at Wheaton

North. The Grenadiers, who connected on three 3-point shots in the second quarter, led Willowbrook 26-19 at halftime.

Elk Grove scored two baskets early in the third quarter to take a 3019 lead. The Warriors outscored the Grenadiers 11-2 over the rest of the quarter to cut Elk Grove’s lead to 32-30 with eight minutes left in the game.

Gusman connected on a long 3-point shot to give the Warriors a 33-32 lead with seven minutes to play. An inside basket by Vish pushed Willowbrook’s lead to 35-32. A rebound and basket by junior Kristin Woods extended the Warriors’ lead to 37-32. Gusman’s second 3-point shot of the quarter raised the lead to 4032 with about five minutes to play. A layup by Kelly completed a 12-0 run and gave Willowbrook a 42-32 lead with about 4:20 to play.

Gusman, who made three of six attempts from 3-point range during the game, scored a team-high 18 points for the Warriors in their win over Elk Grove. Junior Loralai McIntyre, who made two 3-points shots, provided 10 points and six rebounds for Willowbrook. Kelly and Vish scored eight and six points, respectively. Woods supplied four points, while senior Seyna Fall contributed three points for the Warriors. Bruschuk, who was named to the event’s all-tournament team, made a team-leading seven rebounds.

The Warriors’ season continues with this Friday’s West Suburban Gold Conference game at Leyden.

Willowbrook will enter that contest with a conference mark of 3-2.

Willowbrook will begin the second half of its conference season when it faces Proviso East this Saturday in Villa Park.

Chris Fox photos Rock Valley Publishing

Willowbrook’s girls basketball team won two of four games and finished 11th in Wheaton North’s 16-team Bill Neibch Holiday Classic.

The Warriors completed the event with Friday’s 49-41 victory over Elk Grove. Willowbrook opened the fourth quarter with a 12-0 run that flipped a 2-point deficit into a 10-point lead. Junior Ayaani Gusman (No. 10 - above left) scored a team-high 18 points for the Warriors in Friday’s win. Gusman made a pair of 3-point shots in the fourth quarter. Willowbrook junior Loralai McIntyre (No. 15 - above right) provided 10 points and six rebounds in her team’s victory over the Grenadiers.

Senior Tia Kelly (No. 21 - right) supplied eight points for the Warriors in Friday’s win, which pushed the team’s overall season record to 7-11.

Senior Lillian Vish (No. 22 - bottom left) added six points.

Celebrating years

65

1959-2023

Thursday, July 13, 2023 Page 1 LOMBARDIAN

20, 2021 Thursday, May 6, 27,2021

A Celebrating L O M B A RA DL ONMEBWA RS DP AN EP WE SRP AFPOE RR FLOORMLBO AM RB ADR DP EP OE OPPLLEE

62years

Vol. 651959-2021 No. 29 Vol. 63 No. 19 13, 2023 21 Thursday, May 2021 Thursday, May20, 6, 2021 22Thursday, July 27,

Sebastian’s Ale FREE and Whiskey House helps raise over $13,000 for Adopt A Solider Woman at annual charged with aggravated DUI VeteransScholarships presented in deadly crash at Glenbard East Suicide/PTSD Graduation day Awareness Local Scholarship Awards Night at Glenbard East fundraiser

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DuPage County State’s Attorney CHRIS FOX PHOTO Lombardian Robert Berlin CHRIS FOX PHOTO Lombardian Glenbard East High its Local 2021 Scholarship Awards Night last week. after the ceremony.

Pictured (left to right) are: (front row)SUBMITTED Emily DinaLombardian Jovaand DuPage PHOTO Emmie Sathy was School namedheld Lombard’s Lilac Queen during Saturday coronation continued a tradition that began 91 years ago. Ryan, Lombard’s first CHRIS FOX PHOTO More than 40coronation members of the school’s Class of 2021 scholarships Rocco Marcello, TinainDjordjevic andEmmie Sophia Heatley; row) Maddie Sebastian’s Ale and Whiskey House, 801 E. Roosevelt, Lombard—with support theQueen welfare of active members and isveterans theLombardian United afternoon’s ceremony in Lilacia Park.

She received wasCounty oneand of five Lilac novic, Lilac was crowned 1930.

Queen a senior(back at of Glenbard East Sheriff James during the May 13 celebration Biester Auditorium.

Scholarship donors Weltin, Lauren Huber andattend Kendall Crackel.

Glenbard East’s Classabout of 2021 willstucel- of Glenbard East High Class ofstaff/crew, 2021 of celebrated its commenceThis year’s graduating classVanderbilt at Glenbard East includes 560 the help of many generous individuals, businesses, event and States armed forces, their immediate families and the families Princesses to take the School’s stagein at the beginning the ceremony.

Sheusually soon High School.

She will University inimmediate Nashville, Tennessee.

Mendrick attend the $13,848 annual event, but safety mitigations limited attendance atThis this year’sveterans. ebrate its commencement with two are ceremonies this Saturday in Saturday’s the school’s stament with Saturday’s two separate ceremonies the Queen. school’s stadium. dents.

Several ofbe thefound graduates pictured at the end of first the incredible community—raised atsash its and recently held thirdinLilac annual deceased Presenting the check Sue Wackerlin (middle), founder accepted the crown, cape as this year’s year’s More photos can inside thisto issue.

Christine service. of the scholarship winners pictured outsideannounced of the dium.

Theare firstTammy ceremonyHendrickson will begin at 10 a.m.

Theand second service starts at 1(right), p.m.

The firstEight service began at The 10 a.m.

The are second started at 1 p.m. service.

Veterans Suicide/PTSD Awareness fundraiser. funds go toceremony support ofauditorium Adopt A Soldier, (left) Johanna Marks Brocious that bond has Adopt A Soldier—a 501(c)3 organization whose mission is to lift morale organized the event. beenwho set for Christine Brocious, 36, of Chicago Ridge.

Brocious is charged with one count of aggravated DUI causing death (Class 2 felony) and two counts of aggravated DUI causing great bodily harm 4 felony) stemming from Opinion ........................... 4 Police reports ................. 7 a(Class June 29 crash that claimed 2020 SCHILLER TEAM SALES: life of another motorist, About...................

6 Sports .......................11-12 .........................9-10 the Opinion ...........................Out 4 &Police reports ..............2-3 $140,000,000 & 276 CLOSED UNITS 25-year-old Jorgo Cukali and severely injured Jorgo’s Out & About................... 6 Sports ............................ 10 30-year-old sister, Nastika Cukali, who was a passenger in his vehicle. #1 REALTOR ® • #1 TEAM • #1 OFFICE Brocious appeared at a bond hearing where Judge Daniel Tim Schiller | 630.992.0582 | tim@theschillerteam.com Guerin set bond at $1.5 million *MRED, LLC, includes all closed sales in Lombard for all property types, all agents, and all offices, 1/1/2020-12/31/2020. with 10 percent to apply.

On June 29 at approximately 11:30 p.m., DuPage County Sheriff deputies responded to unincorporated Winfield at Mack and Winfield Roads for

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THE NEWSPAPER! And they’re off INSIDE:

Graduation Play at theday plate at Willowbrook

Freshman Lindsey Rugg of the Willowbrook softball team is pictured while attempting to score a run during Friday’s game at Downers Grove South. Rugg tried to score from second base on a single by sophomore Katelyn Cox in the top of the second inning, the game tiedcelebrated at 2-2. Downers Grove South’swith catcher Willowbrook Highwhen School’s Class was of 2021 its commencement two tagged Rugg out at home for the third out of theon inning.

Themorning.

Mustangs separate ceremonies in theplate school’s main gymnasium Sunday Thewent enon to defeat the Warriors 7-3students. in the West Suburban Conference contest. Wiltire class includes over 470 About half ofGold those students attended the

THURSDAY, MAY 13, 2021 THURSDAY, MAY 6,2023 2021 THURSDAY, JULY 13, THURSDAY, MAY 27, 2021 THURSDAY, JUNE 3, 2021

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IndependenceBensenville Day in Villa Park ndependent TAKE ONE

CHRIS FOX PHOTOS Villa Park Review

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Villa Park Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) Post 2801 held its analso serving Wood dale nual Fourth of July Parade last week. TheCHRIS parade, which began at FOX PHOTO Villa Park Review VOL. conditions.

19 • NO. 30 WWW.THEINDEPENDENTNEWSPAPERS.COM 10 a.m., took place loss in warm andan sunny The honor guard lowbrook rebounded from Friday’s to post 11-2 win in Saturday’s game at Naval Station Great Lakes off in the parade.

The honor Hinsdale Central.from The Warriors bashed three homeled runs the second inning of guard Satis shown (top left) while proceeding west on Central Boulevard near CHRIS FOX PHOTO Villa ParkSilver Review Woman urday’s non-conference battle against the Red Devils of the West Suburban Harvard Other parade participants included Willowbrook Conference.

Senior Annemarie Knudtson, freshman Isabella Dugo and that sophomore ceremony that began at 9 Avenue. a.m. The others participated in the ceremony started charged with

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High School’s band (left), along with Villa Park inVillage Kayleigh provided themarching home Dennison (No. 5) is pictured the at 11 a.m. Dennison The photo shows members of runs. the Willowbrook Senior Choir performing aggravated President Nick (above), who, like other14. parade parbackground of the above photo.

For more aboutsee the Warriors, seeDUI page during the day’s first service.

ForCuzzone more photos, Page 4. many ticipants, distributed candy to young in spectators. deadly crash

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Crash killed one, CHRIS FOX PHOTO Villa Park Review PHOTO Villa Park 390271 Review severelySUBMITTED injured

Memorial Day in Villa Park KATE KATE DRURY DRURY

The Village of Villa Park observed Arbor Day with a tree planting on Friday, anotherApril who 30. Pictured (left to subsequently died right) at the tree planting at the village’s Franklin Park, located at 218 N. Third Ave., are: Villa Park Village your local agent DuPage Trustee Christine Murphy, Justin Shlensky—chair of the Villa Park Environmental Concerns CommisCounty sion, Margaret Schiefer—a member of the Villa Park Environmental Concerns Commission, Villa Park State’s AttorneyVilla Park Village Trustee (and Village Trustee Cheryl Tucker, Contact me forVilla a Park Village President Albert Bulthuis, Robert Berlin Village President-Elect) Nick Cuzzone and Leslie Allison-Seei—chair and of DuPage the Villa Park Community Pride 630-514-9961 County Villa complementary Park Veterans of Foreign Warson (VFW) Post 2801 of held itsApril.

Memorial Day service onDay Monday mornCommission.

Arbor Day is observed the last Friday each The National Arbor Foundation Sheriff James 630-514-9961 ing Cortesi Veterans Memorial Park.

Post Commander Jim is pictured bowingthat his recognihead as Mendrick kdrury@atproperties.com hasatrecognized Villaanalysis Park with Tree City USA designation forBlankshain 36 straight years.

To receive market Christine announced Willowbrook High School students Hendrickson and a Anna Seelbach at the end ofcomthe kdrury@atproperties.com tion, a community must have a tree Lily board or department, tree-care ordinance, ataps comprehensive Brocious that bondsound has ofThe your home!!

Kate Drury for Christine Brocious, pandemic. This ceremony. post’s 2020 Memorial Day event was canceled becausebeenofsetthe COVID-19 munity forestry program and an Arbor Day observance.

36, of Chicago Ridge.

630.514.9961 LOCALof AGENT. LOCAL year’s observance included a reading of the names the Post 2801RESULTS. members who Brocious is charged withhave recently died. kdrury@atproperties.com one count DUI That list included World War II veteran Charles “Sid” Bergh, who served asof aggravated the master of ceremonies I would to help! causing death (Class 2 felony) LoveVillaPark.com of the post’s annual Memorial Day service for several years. A veteran of counts the ofU.S. Navy, Bergh died in and two aggravated DUI causing great bodily harm 438517 October 2020. He was 94 years old. Bergh was the post’s last surviving World War II veteran.

(Class 4 felony) stemming from

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a June 29 crash that claimed the life of another motorist, 25-year-old Jorgo Cukali and severely injured Jorgo’s 30-year-old sister, Nastika Cukali, who was a passenger in his vehicle.

Brocious appeared at a bond hearing where Judge Daniel Guerin set bond at $1.5 million with 10 percent to apply.

On June 29 at approximately 11:30 p.m., DuPage County Sheriff deputies responded to unincorporated Winfield at Mack and Winfield Roads for

See CRASH, Page 4

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Village joins LibertyFest Parade

These parade-goers are ready to step off with this Bensenville Park District float, which ap the Wood Dale LibertyFest Parade. More photos inside.

These youngsters took part in the Kids Race portion of the 4 on the 4th race that takes place every year on 4th of July near Elmhurst University.

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The Willowbrook girls basketball team won two of four games and earned an 11th-place finish in Wheaton North’s 16-team Bill Neibch Holiday Classic, which took place Dec. 26-29.

The Warriors’ overall season record stood at 7-11 at the end of the tournament.

Willowbrook opened Wheaton North’s event with a 67-49 loss to Waubonsie Valley on Dec. 26. One day later, the Warriors beat De La Salle Institute 44-31.

Willowbrook lost its third game of the tournament, dropping a 45-28 decision to West Aurora on Dec. 28.

The Warriors completed the event by rallying for a 49-41 victory over Elk Grove in the 11th-place game on Friday, Dec. 29.

Waubonsie Valley, which went on to win the tournament championship, led Willowbrook 15-10 after one quarter and 35-22 at halftime. Waubonsie Valley held a 53-37 lead at the end of the third quarter.

Senior Elle Bruschuk scored 11 points and pulled down 13 rebounds for Willowbrook in last week’s loss to Waubonsie Valley. Junior Kendall Medinger, who made three 3-point shots, also scored 11 points for the Warriors. Senior Lillian Vish contributed eight points, while junior Ayaani Gusman supplied six points.

The Warriors led De La Salle 11-8 after one quarter and 24-20 at halftime. Willowbrook led the Meteors 32-26 at the end of the third quarter.

Vish scored a team-high 14 points for the Warriors in their Dec. 27 victory over De La Salle. Gusman, who made a pair of 3-point shots, contributed 12 points. Bruschuk scored eight points and pulled down a team-leading 15 rebounds. Willowbrook senior Tia Kelly added four points and 11 rebounds.

The Warriors led West Aurora 1211 after one quarter of the Dec. 28

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Thursday, Jan. 4, 2024

LEGAL NOTICES IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE EIGHTEENTH JUDICIAL DISTRICT DUPAGE COUNTY, WHEATON, ILLINOIS BRYNN E. RUBACKY, Petitioner, vs LUIS ROCHA, Respondent

North County Farm Road, Wheaton, Illinois on or before 1/21/2024, a default may be entered against you at any time after that date and an ORDER OF PROTECTION be entered against you in accordance with the prayer of said petition.

Dated: 12/13/2023

Case Number: 2023OP001633 DOMESTIC RELATIONS PUBLICATION The requisite affidavit of publication having been filed: NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN TO YOU LUIS ROCHA, Respondent, that a petition has been filed in the Eighteenth Judicial Circuit Court of DuPage County of DuPage County, Illinois, by the Petitioner, against you for an ORDER OF PROTECTION and for other relief; that summons was duly issued against you as provided by law, and such petition is still pending.

NOW THEREFORE, unless you LUIS ROCHA, the Respondent, file your answer to the Petition or otherwise make your appearance therein, in the office of the Clerk of the Eighteenth Judicial Circuit Court, at the Judicial Center, 505

Candice Adams Clerk of the Circuit Court 8085-938223 (Published in The Lombardian Dec. 21, 28, 2023 & Jan. 4, 2024) 448652 LEGAL NOTICE Invitation to Bid York Township State of Illinois, County of DuPage The York Township Highway Department is seeking bids for its York Township 2024 Street Improvement Project.

Specifications, plans and contract documents shall be obtained at the York Township Highway Department Office, 19W475 Roosevelt Rd., Lombard, IL., between the hours of 8:00 am. and 3:30 pm, Monday through Friday. Documents will not be mailed out or emailed. A $50.00 (check or cash) charge will be made for the bid documents.

Proposals are to be mailed or hand-delivered in a sealed envelope

clearly marked “YORK TOWNSHIP 2024 STREET IMPROVEMENT PROJECT PROPOSAL – DO NOT OPEN,” and received by the York Township Highway Department office on or before 10:00 am, local time on January 25, 2024 addressed to: Dick Schroeder, Highway Commissioner York Township Highway Department 19W475 Roosevelt Road Lombard, IL 60148 All proposals received will be publicly opened and read at 10:00 am on Thursday, January 25, 2024, at the York Township Highway Department, 19W475 Roosevelt Rd., Lombard, IL. The York Township Highway Department reserves the right to reject any or all bids, to waive irregularities in the bidding procedure or accept the bid that, in its opinion, will serve its best interest.

Any proposals received after the time specified will not be considered. For more information call (630) 627-2200 or email yorkhwy@comcast.net.

Dick Schroeder, Highway Commissioner Anthony Cuzzone, Town Clerk York Township (Published in The Lombardian Jan. 4, 2024) 449274

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when the officer located the vehicle, later determined to be driven by Castro, Castro put his car in reverse and proceeded southbound on Route 83. It is alleged that as the officer pursued, Castro reached speeds of approximately 107 mph in a 45-mph zone and disobeyed three traffic lights.

It is alleged that near 16th Street, Castro completed a U-turn and continued driving northbound on Route 83 reaching speeds of approximately 100 mph in a 35-mph construction zone, at which time the pursuing officer lost sight of the vehicle.

A short time later, the vehicle was located abandoned in a school parking lot. Officers responded to the school parking and at approximately 8:42 p.m., located Castro approximately one block away from the school. He was then taken into custody after a brief struggle with the officers.

Castro’s next court appearance is scheduled July 27 for arraignment in front of Judge Telander.

Register in advance by calling 630-766-7015.

VOL. 19 • NO. 28

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Celebrating all things Warhol

Noon-5 p.m. | July 4 Bensenville Water Park

Register in advance by calling 630-766-7015.

438525

THURSDAY, JUNE 29, 2023

DEE LONGFELLOW PHOTO Bensenville Independent

As many museums are celebrating Andy Warhol and his legacy of pop art, July 28. Pictured are (from left): Daley Wangler, Reilly Costello, Katy Costello, the Elmhurst Artists’ Guild hosted reception for its Inspired By Warhol exhibit, a whose works were on display in the exhibit, Allison Haas and Katie Fox. Info: juried exhibition based on the works of Andy Warhol on display through Friday, elmhurstartmuseum.org.

County sheriff investigating Juneteenth shooting incident 60 60

Open!

Police Reports..........4 information to call 630-407-2343.

The Juneteenth celebration started Viewpoint ................8 Classifieds..............10 JULY 4 at around 6 p.m. Saturday, June 17.

T T T

According to the Daily Herald, DuP-

age in County Sheriff’s deputies had Register WhitePinesG advance byolf.com been630-766-7015. monitoring the celebration, but calling

394390 responded to a 911 call of396445 a fight that 438525 396917 had broken out nearby.

THURSDAY, MAY 13, 2021 THURSDAY, MAY 6,2023 2021 THURSDAY, 29, THURSDAY, MAY 27, 2021 While JUNE deputies were investigating THURSDAY, JUNE 3, 2021 that call, they heard gunshots and

returned immediately to the celebration.

“Out of nowhere, there was a major gunfight for like 30 seconds,” eyewitness Bartosz Majerczyk told ABC 7 Eyewitness News. “I’d say, 60 plus rounds. You could tell it was two different groups of people shooting at each other.”

Another witness, who said she was at the celebration, told ABC 7 Eyewitness News “everybody started running” when the gunfire erupted.

“There was a man,” she said. “He fell on top of me. He had a gunshot wound to his leg. It was like something you can’t imagine.”

In a statement, Governor JB Pritzker said he is closely monitoring the shooting.

“Gathering for a holiday celebration should be a joyful occasion, not a time when gunfire erupts and families are forced to run for safety,” Gov. Pritzker said. “As I’ve said time and

time again, gun violence is a public health emergency in this country and I remain committed to banning these dangerous weapons and making our state safer for everyone.”

Meadows was described as a “devoted father whose life was tragically taken from us amidst a Juneteenth celebration” on a GoFundMe page set up to provide support to his two young children, RJ and Gabby.

Meadows was “a beacon of love and strength, who fell victim to a devastating crossfire incident that shattered the peace and joy of what should have been a day of celebration.

“Amidst the chaos, Reggie tragically lost his life, leaving an indelible mark of grief on his family and community. Our thoughts and prayers go out to the other victims who were injured, as we mourn the loss of Reggie, a remarkable individual who touched the lives of many.”

CHRIS FOX PHOTO Villa Park Review

lowbrook rebounded from Friday’s loss to post an 11-2 win in Saturday’s game at Hinsdale Central. The Warriors bashed three home runs in the second inning of SatCHRIS FOX PHOTO Villa ParkSilver Review urday’s non-conference battle against the Red Devils of the West Suburban Conference.

Senior Knudtson, freshman Isabella Dugo and that sophomore ceremony that beganAnnemarie at 9 a.m. The others participated in the ceremony started Kayleigh the home Dennison (No. 5) is pictured in the at 11 a.m. Dennison The photoprovided shows members of runs. the Willowbrook Senior Choir performing background of the above photo. more aboutsee thePage Warriors, during the day’s first service.

ForFor more photos, 4. see page 14.

Departing Mariners LOW INVENTORY!

CHRISFOX FOXPHOTO PHOTOVilla VillaPark ParkReview Review CHRIS SUBMITTED PHOTO Villa Park 390271 Review 377325

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Graduation Play at theday plate at Willowbrook

Freshman Lindsey Rugg of the Willowbrook softball team is pictured while attempting to score a run during Friday’s game at Downers Grove South. Rugg tried to score from second base on a single by sophomore Katelyn Cox in the top of the second inning, the game tiedcelebrated at 2-2. Downers Grove South’swith catcher Willowbrook Highwhen School’s Class was of 2021 its commencement two tagged Rugg out at home for the third out of theon inning.

Themorning.

Mustangs separate ceremonies in theplate school’s main gymnasium Sunday Thewent enon to defeat the Warriors 7-3students. in the West Suburban Conference contest. Wiltire class includes over 470 About half ofGold those students attended the

Noon-5 p.m. | July 4 Bensenville Water Park

395484

SWIM

alsoserving servingOO O also also serving

Joe Benedetti, known as “Joe the Barber,” recently retired after 50 years of serving the Addison akbROOk eRRace akbROOk errace eRRace akbrOOk akbROOk eRRace akbROOk eRRace community. The owner of Joe’s Hair Styling Unisex at 611 W. Lake Street was honored by the Village of Addison at a Board meeting on Monday, June 5, where he received a Proclamation in honor of his VOL. 17 ••NO. NO. 21 WWW.THEINDEPENDENTNEWSPAPERS.COM VOL. 17••attended NO.23 20 WWW.THEINDEPENDENTNEWSPAPERS.COM 19 28 WWW.THEINDEPENDENTNEWSPAPERS.COM 17 WWW.THEINDEPENDENTNEWSPAPERS.COM 50 years in business. Nearly 100 communityVOL. members the meeting to congratulate him.

VOL. 17 NO. 24 WWW.THEINDEPENDENTNEWSPAPERS.COM

InsIde nsIde:

tified as 31-year-old father of two Reggie Meadows, died after suffering a gunshot wound to the abdomen.

Deputy Chief Eric Swanson of the DuPage County Sheriff’s Office said in a news conference Sunday, June 18 that at least two other victims were in critical condition.

“The motive behind this incident is unclear,” Swanson said. “This is

Driving

Range

Officially

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‘Joe the Barber’ honored by Village

Golf Lessons

still an active investigation.”

Call theINDEPENDEN Pro Shop CE DAY PARADE “We are working around the clock to Register Today March with to bring to justice,” the those parkresponsible district! the sheriff’s office said in a recent Sign up at BvilleParks.org (630) /Libertyfest 766-0304 post on Twitter, urging anyone with Puzzles ....................9

InsIde:

SUBMITTED PHOTO Addison Independent

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One killed, 23 wounded; deceased victim was father of two

multiple weapons into a large crowd No arrests have been made as of at around 12:30 a.m. during a gather1 press time in connection with a mass ing to commemorate Juneteenth held shooting at a strip mall in unincorpo- ¢¢ ¢in the parking lot at the mall, located rated DuPage County near Willow- ¢near Honeysuckle Lane and Route brook early Sunday morning, June 83.

18, the day designated as Juneteenth.

Approximately 23 people were The DuPage County Sheriff’s wounded by gunfire. Victims were Office said an unknown number of taken to hospitals in DuPage, Cook suspects fired multiple rounds from and Will counties. One man, idenSTAFF REPORT

1 • Thursday, June 29, 2023 - Rock Valley Publishing

InsIde:

Police Reports..........4 Puzzles ....................9 Viewpoint ................8 Classifieds..............10

also serving Wood dale

438525

THURSDAY, JUNE 29, 2023

Florida man charged with leading police on high-speed chase

DuPage County State’s Attorney Robert Berlin and Villa Park Chief of Police Michael Rivas announced that bond has been set for a Florida man accused of leading Omar Castro police on a high-speed chase.

Omar Castro, 22, appeared at a bond hearing where Judge Michael Reidy set bond at $100,000.

Castro is charged with two counts of aggravated fleeing and eluding a police officer (Class 4 felony) and multiple misdemeanor and petty traffic offenses including two counts of aggravated speeding in a construction zone, reckless driving and driving while license suspended, all Class A misdemeanors.

On Thursday, June 22 at approximately 8:28 p.m., an Elmhurst police officer responded to a call of a stolen motor vehicle near Route 83 and North Avenue. It is alleged that

Memorial Day in Villa Park

The Village of Villa Park observed Arbor Day with a tree planting on Friday, April 30. Pictured (left to right) at the tree planting at the village’s Franklin Park, located at 218 N. Third Ave., are: Villa Park Village your local agent

Trustee Christine Murphy, Justin Shlensky—chair of the Villa Park Environmental Concerns Commis..........6 14 PoliceReports Reports............4 ..........8 Classifieds................10 Sports.................... ....................17 16 sion, The Margaret Villa Park Mariners recognized six Villa departing swimmers during Saturday’s meet against Police Reports ..........8 Sports Police Schiefer—a membertheir of the Park “senior” Environmental Concerns Commission, Villa Park KATE DRURY Hanover Park at Jefferson Pool.Villa Pictured to right at the end of the meet—Villa final home meet of Village Trustee Cheryl Tucker, Parkleft Village President Albert Bulthuis, VillaPark’s Park Village Trustee (and Contact me for aRoscoe, DRURY Legal Notices ......... 15 Speak Classifieds..............13 Viewpoint ................6 Classifieds..........17-18 season—are: (front row) Grace Harper KATE Conboy Knudtson; (back Viewpoint ................6 Classifieds..............16 Puzzles ......................9 Out................8 the Village President-Elect) Nick Cuzzone andCaitlin LeslieO’Connor, Allison-Seei—chair of theand VillaGabby Park Community Pride 630-514-9961

complementary row) Alexander Dean and Simon Luedtke.

All ofFriday the pictured Mariners areNational members of Willowbrook High Villa Park Veterans of Foreign Warson (VFW) Post 2801 held its Memorial Day service onDay Monday mornCommission.

Arbor Day is observed thesix last of each April.

The Arbor Foundation 630-514-9961 School’s ClassVeterans of Villa 2023.

Roscoe, has been with the Mariners for years, willTo attend the University ing Cortesi Memorial Park.

Post Commander Jim is pictured bowing his recognihead of as kdrury@atproperties.com hasatrecognized Park withwho Tree City USA designation forBlankshain 36seven straight years. receive that market analysis Wisconsin-Madison.

O’Connor, 11or years with and the Mariners, and Knudtson, who’s a Mariner Willowbrook High School students Lily Hendrickson Anna Seelbach soundataps at been the end ofcomthe kdrury@atproperties.com tion, a community must have awho treespent board department, a tree-care ordinance, comprehensive of your home!! for sevenforestry years, will both attend Illinois State University.

Conboy,because who hasofbeen member of the Mariners ceremony.

The post’s 2020 Memorial Day event was canceled the a COVID-19 pandemic.

This munity program and an Arbor Day observance. for 10 years, and Luedtke, who’s been with forof six years, both attend College of DuPage. year’s observance included a reading of the team names the Postwill 2801 members who have recentlyDean, died. who’s been with theWorld Mariners 11 years,Charles will attend theBergh, Milwaukee Villa Park beat That list included War II veteran “Sid” who School served of asEngineering. the master of ceremonies I would to for help!

Hanover Park annual 372-205Memorial in Saturday’s to improve its season record to 2-4.

TheU.S. Mariners finish their of the post’s Daymeet service for several years. A veteran of the Navy,will Bergh died in eight-meet regular season with this Dale a meet in Roselle July 8.

October 2020.

He was 94 years old.week’s Berghmeet was in theWood post’s lastand surviving World Waron II veteran.

Federal judge sets trial date for State Sen. Tom Cullerton--Page 4

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The Lombardian, Addison Independent, Bensenville Independent and VillaPublished Park Review by Rock Valley Publishing 240 N. West Ave., Suite B Elmhurst, IL 60126 Phone: 630.834.8244

NOTICE CERTIFICATE NO. 79302 was filed in the office of the County Clerk of DuPage County on December 27, 2023 wherein the business firm of Chicor Apparel & Specialty Products, 2021 MIDWEST ROAD #200, OAK BROOK, IL 60523 was registered; that the true or real name or names of the person or persons owning the business, with their respective post office address(es), is/are as follows: JEFFREY J CHIMIENTI, 163 BOURNE LANE, BLOOMINGDALE, IL 60108

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1 • Thursday, June 29, 2023 - Rock Valley Publishing

Bensenville Receive a digital copy of your hometown Addison Independent Independent newspaper every week with an eSubscription. The eSubscription is a PDF copy of the printed newspaper emailed to you every week for only $35 a year.

Villa Park eview R eview R There’s no waiting for your home delivery.

Your link to the weekly newspaper will be emailed to you every Thursday. The digital version of the newspaper can be read on a computer, laptop or Arbor Day in Villa Park tablet.

VOL. 20 • NO. 28

NOTICE CERTIFICATE NO. 79287 was filed in the office of the County Clerk of DuPage County on DECEMBER 8, 2023, wherein the business firm of “SING IT” KARAOKE SHOWS, 1533 BROOKDALE ROAD, NAPERVILLE, IL 60563 was registered; that the true or real name or names of the person or persons owning the business, with their respective post office address(es), is/are as follows: Todd H. Rominsky, 1533 Brookdale Road, Naperville, IL 60563.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand and Official Seal at my office in Wheaton, Illinois, this 8TH day of DECEMBER, A.D. 2023.

Jean Kaczmarek DuPage County Clerk (Published in The Lombardian Dec. 21, 28, 2023 & Jan. 4, 2024) 448555

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand and Official Seal at my office in Wheaton, Illinois, this 27TH day of December, A.D. 2023.

Jean Kaczmarek DuPage County Clerk (Published in The Lombardian Jan 4, 11, & 18, 2024) 449273 NOTICE CERTIFICATE NO. 79306 was filed in the office of the County Clerk of DuPage County on DECEMBER 28, 2023, wherein the business firm of HisLuvIsUnconditional, PO BOX 1509, ADDISON, IL 60101 was registered; that the true or real name or names of the person or persons owning the business, with their respective post office address(es), is/are as follows: Wanda J. Cook, 1135 W. Trinity Drive, Addison, IL 60101.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand and Official Seal at my office in Wheaton, Illinois, this 28TH day of DECEMBER, A.D. 2023.

Jean Kaczmarek DuPage County Clerk (Published in the Addison Independent, Bensenville Independent & Villa Park Review Jan. 4, 11 & 18, 2024) 449290

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE EIGHTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT DU PAGE COUNTY, ILLINOIS PUBLICATION NOTICE OF COURT DATE FOR REQUEST FOR NAME CHANGE (ADULT) Request of: SAMANTHA ALEXANDRIA HEDGLEY Case Number: 2023MR000733 There will be a court date on my Request to change my name from SAMANTHA ALEXANDRIA HEDGLEY to the new name of SAMANTHA ALEXANDRIA. The court date will be held February 14, 2024 at 9:00 a.m. at 505 N. County Farm Road, Wheaton, IL, DuPage County, in Courtroom #2005. /s/ Samantha Hedgley Dated: 12/15/2023 Candice Adams Clerk of the Circuit Court 8088-938321 (Published in the Addison Independent, Bensenville Independent & Villa Park Review Jan. 4, 11 & 18, 2024) 449162

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Thursday, Jan. 4, 2024

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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

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

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$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

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$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

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HAPPY HOUR ~ Tuesday-Friday 3pm-6pm 99¢ Chicken Tenders ~ SLIDERS ~ $2 Grilled Chicken - Meatball - Pulled Pork $3 Burger - Fish - Pork Belly $4 Vegan Chicken or Impossible Slider $5 Italian Beef ‘Wich $8 Medium Cheese Pizza - $3 Full Toppings

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