AI021623

Willowbrook student accused of making threats at outplacement school

DuPage County State’s Attorney Robert Berlin and Villa Park Chief of Police Michael Rivas announced that a male Willowbrook High School student who is outplaced for a portion of the school day to Menta Academy Midway in Chicago, has been charged with two counts of disorderly conduct (Class 4 felony) for allegedly making threatening statements directed at the school.

The juvenile, who lives in Villa Park, appeared at a detention hearing where Judge Demetrios Panoushis ordered that he be placed on home detention with electronic monitoring.

It is alleged that on Wednesday, Feb. 1 while at Willowbrook High School, the juvenile, who is 13 years old, told a teacher “I’m going to shoot them b*****s up.”

The teacher reported the incident to the Dean of Willowbrook High School. It is further alleged that when speaking to the Dean, the juvenile said, “I’m going to f*****g shoot them; not this school, everyone at my other school.”

Authorities at the school contacted the Villa Park Police Department who, following an investigation, contacted the office of the DuPage County State’s Attorney.

“Any threat of violence aimed at a school will immediately be investigated and if found credible, will be charged accordingly,” Berlin said.

“Teachers can’t teach, and students can’t learn if they are in fear for their safety while at school.

“I thank authorities at Willowbrook High School for alerting law enforcement to this incident as well as the Villa Park Police Department for their efforts.”

“As soon as our Villa Park school resource officer was alerted to the threat, he gathered law enforcement resources to bring about a safe resolution to the alleged threat,” Police Chief Rivas said. “The law enforcement community in DuPage County is committed to assisting schools in creating safe spaces for teachers to teach and students to learn and thrive. We want to thank the swift action of our Villa Park school resource officer, Villa Park detectives and Villa Park officers.”

The juvenile’s next court appearance is scheduled for Monday, Feb. 27 in front of Judge Panoushis.

Members of the public are reminded that those accused are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

SUBMITTED PHOTO Addison Independent

ISAC member Areli García presented the Addison Trail Counseling Department with a banner to recognize staff for excellence in supporting the class of 2022 through the financial aid process by completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). FAFSA allows students to access federal grants, work-study programs and school loans.

D88 recognizes National School Counseling Week

During the week of Feb. 6-10, District 88 celebrated and recognized National School Counseling Week 2023 at Addison Trail and Willowbrook high schools, sponsored by the American School Counselor Association (ASCA). This year’s theme was “School Counselors: Helping Students Dream Big.” The week was an opportunity to highlight the impact school counselors have on students, helping them achieve school success and plan for a career. The event also serves to recognize comprehensive school counseling programs. For more information, go to schoolcounselor.org.

• As part of the week, the Addison Trail Counseling Department was recognized on Thursday, Feb. 9 by the Illinois Student Assistance Commission (ISAC) for excellence in supporting the class of 2022 through the financial aid process by completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).

ISAC member Areli García presented the department with a banner in honor of this accomplishment. The FAFSA is a way for students to access federal grants, work-study programs and school loans. Completing the FAFSA is a graduation requirement for Illinois

students (seniors who choose not to complete the FAFSA must file a waiver). For more information, go to studentaid.gov/h/apply-for-aid/fafsa.

• Willowbrook hosted a School Counselor Appreciation Week with a different theme each day. On Monday, Feb. 6, students were invited to wear green to promote mental health awareness. Tuesday was Dream Jobs Day, when students were urged to dress for their dream job. Wednesday was a day to “Celebrate Our Differences.” Individuals could wear what best represents them. On Thursday, students were allowed to wear clothing that indicated their plans after high school graduation, such as college, work, the military, etc. On Friday, the school celebrated “Willowbrook is a dream school because… “ by wearing something that describes what the student likes best about Willowbrook. For more information about the Addison Trail Counseling Department, visit dupage88.libguides. com/Guidance.

For more information about the Willowbrook Counseling Department, visit dupage88.libguides.com/GuidanceandCounseling.

D88 students urged to consider college prep, apprenticeship programs

As District 88 students in the classes of 2024, 2025, 2026 and 2027 continue to plan and select courses for the 2023-24 school year, District 88 officials are reminding families that its highest priority is to ensure there are rigorous – yet flexible and individualized – programming to meet the needs of the student population. It is the focus to have each student working toward a viable college and career integrated pathway, including access to college coursework, while at District 88, along with real-life career opportunities in the field of that student’s choice.

To that end, in addition to District

88’s college-preparatory course offerings within its core departments (including expanded Advanced Placement, dual-credit and college credit courses through Elmhurst University), District 88 offers externally credentialed and dual-credit career pathways, including automotive technology, culinary arts, business careers, engineering, medical careers, teacher preparation, building trades as well as internship and paid apprenticeship programs in the manufacturing and technology fields. For more information, visit dupage88. net/site/page/15309

Members of the class of 2023 are

reminded about College of DuPage’s Project Hire-Ed Apprenticeship Program, which teaches skills in specific occupations, helping students con-

nect to a career pathway. The program provides on-the-job training so participants can get paid while learning. An online information session is

scheduled at 5:30 p.m. on Wednesday, March 22 and again on Thursday, April 13. For more information, visit dupage88.net/site/page/15374.

Smith’s season ends at an individual sectional Warrior earns one win at Hinsdale Central before losing two matches

STAFF REPORT

Senior Isaiah Smith of the Willowbrook wrestling team competed in the IHSA Class 3A individual sectional at Hinsdale Central High School, which took place on Friday and Saturday. The top four finishers in each weight class at the sectional qualified for the IHSA Class 3A individual state meet, which begins today in Champaign.

Smith, who competed in the 132-pound weight class at the sectional, did not earn a state-meet

berth. He opened the sectional with an 11-4 victory. Smith was pinned in the second period of his quarterfinal match. Smith’s season ended after his next contest—a 12-11 loss in a consolation-round match.

Smith completed the season with an overall record of 25-14.

Addison Trail

Four Addison Trail wrestlers competed in the IHSA Class 3A individual sectional at Conant High School, which took place Friday and

Saturday in Hoffman Estates. None of those Blazers advanced to the individual state meet.

Addison Trail freshman Josh Amorn-Vichet, who competed in the sectional’s 120-pound weight bracket, lost his first match at the sectional. He then lost in the consolation round. Amorn-Vichet finished the season with a record of 21-13.

Junior Arjay Valdez of the Blazers lost his first match in the 132-pound level of the sectional. Valdez won his next two matches in the consolation

round before losing in one of that round’s semifinal contests. Valdez completed the season with a 27-12 record.

Junior Martin Duarte of Addison Trail competed in the sectional’s 160-pound weight class. Duarte suffered an overtime loss in the quarterfinal round. He then earned one win in the consolation round before his season ended with a loss in that round. Duarte ended the season with a 25-7 record.

Junior Elmer Olascoaga of the

Blazers lost his quarterfinal match in the sectional’s 195-pound division. Olascoaga then delivered a first-period pin in a consolation-round match. His season ended when he lost his next match in the consolation round. Olascoaga finished the season with a record of 17-8.

Duarte and Olascoaga both won individual titles at the Feb. 4 individual regional at Oak Park/River Forest High School. The top three finishers in each weight class at the regional advanced to the sectional.

Three Warriors contend at the Lake Park Sectional

Addison Trail’s Maddie Muccianti secures a statemeet berth in floor exercises

STAFF REPORT

Three members of Willowbrook High School’s girls gymnastics team competed in last week’s IHSA Lake Park Sectional. None of the those three Warriors advanced to the IHSA state meet, which takes place this Friday and Saturday at Palatine High School.

Senior Sarah Ball, junior Mia McBride and sophomore Naomi Campbell represented Willowbrook at the Lake Park Sectional in Roselle on Feb. 6.

The three Warriors earned their sectional berths with solid performances at the Glenbard West Regional on Jan. 31.

All gymnasts who earned topfive finishes in the regional automatically qualified for the sectional. Some gymnasts also secured at-large sectional berths. Similarly, the gymnasts who turned in top-five finishes in the sectional automatically advanced to the state meet.

Some sectional competitors who finished outside of the top five in the meet’s events earned at-large berths in the state meet.

Ball competed in three events at the sectional. She finished 13th in floor exercises; her routine in that event received a score of 8.85. Ball tied for 13 th on the vault (9.15) and tied for 29 th on the balance beam (7.6).

Ball’s sectional score of 8.85 in floor exercises fell a bit short of what she needed to secure a berth in the state meet. Four gymnasts, including Addison Trail senior Maddie Muccianti, posted sectional scores of 8.925 in floor exercises to earn the last available at-large berths in the state meet in that event.

Muccianti finished in a threeway tie for 10 th in floor exercises at the Lake Park Sectional. The other state qualifier who turned in a sectional score of 8.925 competed at the Conant Sectional.

McBride competed on the balance beam and the uneven bars at the sectional. She also battled in the

sectional’s all-around competition.

McBride placed 28 th on the balance beam (7.65) at the sectional. She added another 28 th-place finish on the uneven bars (7.75). McBride finished 26 th in the sectional’s allaround standings with her total

score of 32.55. In addition to her scores on the balance beam and uneven bars, McBride’s all-around total included scores of 8.6 on the vault and 8.525 in floor exercises.

Campbell, who also qualified for the Lake Park Sectional’s all-

around competition, delivered a 22 nd-place total of 32.975. Her allaround score included an 8.95 on the vault, a 6.875 on the uneven bars, an 8.525 on the balance beam and an 8.625 in floor exercises.

Campbell also contended in the

sectional’s individual competitions in floor exercises and on the balance beam. She finished 15 th on the balance beam with her score of 8.525. Her 8.625 in floor exercises yielded a 19 th-place finish in that event.

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

Sunday Worship at 10:15 am

Sunday School & Bible Study 9am Wednesday Service at 7pm

Adult Bible Study Wednesdays after Service

Ladies Bible Fellowship Thursdays 6:30pm

February 25 Game Night at 4pm

Everyone is Welcome!

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

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.

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Publisher

Advertising: Brenda Garcia

Subscriptions:

The Independent is mailed to the 60101, 60106 and 60181 zip code areas for $15.95 yearly. Out-of-area mail subscriptions are $29.95 yearly. For home delivery information call 630.834-8244.

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

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Office Hours: Monday-Friday 11am-3pm

Lettia Hoda receives 88’s Best honors for January

Lettia Hoda was selected for her stellar involvement in extracurricular activities. She was recognized at the District 88 Board of Education meeting.

Throughout her four years at Addison Trail, Hoda has proven to be a great role model for her peers and has spent her high school career balancing all of it with a positive attitude and a contagious Blazer spirit that has had a lasting effect on her teachers and classmates.

Hoda said her grandparents have contributed greatly to her success.

“Ever since I was a kid, they taught me to prioritize school and always encouraged me to do my best,” she said. “They always asked me about my grades and loved hearing about my accomplishments. My grandpa passed away (recently), and I wish he could have been around to hear about this award, because he would have been extremely happy. I just told my grandma about it and she was very excited.”

Her involvement at Addison Trail includes as a member of the girls cross-country team, the girls track and field team and as a performer in the Addison Trail Orchestra.

Plans for the future

Hoda’s plans following graduation include attending Lake Forest College to major in neuroscience. She also hopes to continue participating in cross-country and track as well.

She said her favorite class at Addison Trail has been Medical Careers, because, Hoda said, “it provides an opportunity to shadow doctors and other health care professionals at a local hospital.”

“I really value this [experience], because I want to work in medicine one day,” she said. “Being exposed to the hospital environment as a senior [in high school] is really rare and I really love it.”

Staff members weigh in

“Hoda was a great student in AP Physics 1, and I am so grateful I was able to be her teacher. She is mature, respectful and focused – those qualities and more will take her far in life.”

—Kira Bonk, ATHS science teacher

“I have had the pleasure of having Hoda in my orchestra for four years. During her time in the Music Depart-

ment, Hoda has shown hard work and dedication to being a fantastic musician. She has taken on leadership roles in the orchestra, demonstrating her ability to work well with others and help foster a warm and welcoming classroom environment. I can always count on her to give her best effort every day. The Addison Trail Music Department is very lucky to have Hoda as a musician.”

- Alex Stombres, ATHS Orchestra Director

“Hoda embodies what District 88’s Best is all about. She has a long list of impressive accomplishments, both in the classroom and during extracurriculars. As one of her coaches for cross-country and track & field, I would like to share some of what she has achieved while running. In the past year, Hoda has done all of the following: broke 6 minutes in the mile, finished 11th at Regionals (which qualified her for Sectionals) and ran the fourth-fastest 3-mile time in Addison Trail history.

“These are all tremendous achievements, but it is Hoda’s attitude, work ethic, humility and sense of humor that truly set her apart and make her so deserving of this award.”

—Michael Barnd, ATHS girls cross-country and track and field assistant coach

“I have been privileged to see Hoda in both the classroom as her Precalculus Honors teacher, as well as watching her grow during her junior and senior years as an exceptional cross-country athlete.

“As a student, she was disciplined, organized and extremely dedicated to learning the material. All of these traits were evident in cross-country as well. Hoda began running as a cross-country athlete her junior year. She started the season with a time of 26:57 for 3 miles and, by the end of the season, had improved by 4 minutes and 30 seconds with a season-best time of 22:27, placing her 24th on the all-time fastest Blazers list. During her senior year, she kicked it up another notch. She trained and prepared consistently during the summer and racked up many accolades throughout the season. She placed 1st in the Conference dual meets against Proviso East, Willowbrook and Downers Grove South. At the Conference Championship, she placed 6th overall. The next

week, she placed 11thoverall at Regionals and qualified as an individual for Sectionals. She closed the season with yet another personal record and finished her cross-country career as the fourth-fastest Blazer in school history.”

—Kirsten Olson, ATHS girls cross-country head coach

The District 88 Board of Education created the 88’s Best award to highlight the success of outstanding student individuals. Recipients are honored in one or more of the following areas: academics, improved performance, extracurricular activities, service work or performing arts/ electives.

Addison resident honored by PGA for work at Oak Meadows Fire

survivor Nieto receives ‘Deacon Palmer’

Addison resident Jamie Nieto, PGA head golf pro at The Preserve at Oak Meadows, has been selected to receive the 2023 Deacon Palmer Award, which honors a PGA professional who displays outstanding integrity, character and leadership in the effort to overcome a major obstacle in their life.

On his 20th birthday, Nieto was

lighting a fire pit in his backyard when the can of accelerant exploded, engulfing his body in flames. He sustained third degree burns over 65 percent of his body.

Nieto spent six weeks in the ICU at Loyola University Medical Center—three weeks in an induced coma— as surgeons performed skin-graft operations to save his life.

Four years after working with doctors to rebuild his injured right hand so he could play golf again, Nieto registered as a PGA of America Associate (then known as an “Apprentice”) and earned his PGA

Membership in 2012.

Nieto has a simple, three-word motto that he lives by – “Never give up.” He challenges those around him to live by it as well. He spreads this message when volunteering his time and counseling other burn patients, sharing his story and relating it back to the game of golf.

In the Illinois PGA Section, Nieto won the Distinguished Service Award in 2016, and the Deacon Palmer Award in 2020.

Prior to arriving at Oak Meadows, he spent seven years as the PGA head pro at Pheasant Run Resort. In

award

addition to his golf career, Nieto has dedicated 17 years as a volunteer with the Survivors Offering Assistance in Recovery (SOAR) as a patient counselor through the Phoenix Society for Burn Survivors.

Besides Nieto, there were 12 other recipients of PGA national awards such as PGA Golf Pro of the Year, Teacher and Coach of the Year, Player Development Award and others.

All honorees were recognized at the 2023 PGA Conference and Show held at the Orange County Convention Center in Orlando.

Lettia Hoda has been named as Addison Trail’s January recipient of 88’s Best recognition. The ATHS senior was honored during the District 88 Board of Education meeting held on Monday, Jan 30.

Jamie Nieto

SUBMITTED PHOTO Rock Valley Publishing

Coming events

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

Friday, Feb. 17

Free time Fridays

From 11 a.m.-noon at the Adult Program Room of the Addison Public Library, join us for crafts, games, light refreshments, conversation, and fun with friends old and new. We’ll do something different each time we meet and it will always be a fun treat.

Saturday, Feb. 18

Care Con

From 1-4 p.m. at the Addison Public Library, join community partners and friends for an afternoon of music, movement, and play to support mental health. Practice self-care with activities and crafts and learn about community resources for when you need extra support. We’ll have chances to win raffle prizes throughout the afternoon; all ages welcome.

Monday, Feb. 20

16 steps to starting a business while working fulltime

From 6:30-8 p.m. on Zoom via the Addison Public Library, do you want to create your own business, but need the security of your full-time job?

Developing a company while still employed is not only possible but actually offers several benefits. At this highly interactive discussion, we will share how you can develop your own business while working full time. Part one of a two-part series; Part two will be held Monday, March 27 at the same time.

Tuesday, Feb. 21

Is this the right job for me?

From 10-11 a.m. on Zoom via the Addison Public Library, neither

companies nor employees want to be part of a bad hiring decision; it costs time, money and effort. So, what can you do to make the best possible decision for you? By asking a few targeted questions during the interview process, you can determine whether a job will be a good fit and increase your chances of being happy there.

Wednesday, Feb. 22

Hot topics round table

From 7-8:30 p.m. at the Large Meeting Room of the Addison Public Library, we’ll be discussing three hot topics that can range from legal issues, politics, foreign policy, business, education, and more. Let your voice be heard during this discussion.

Saturday, Feb. 25

Bilingual stories and crafts

From 2-2:30 p.m. at the Addison Public Library, enjoy stories and crafts and learn some new words in Spanish. No registration required.

Monday, Feb. 27

Artemis: Returning to the moon

From 7-8 p.m. at the Large Meeting Room of the Addison Public Library, in the next few years, NASA will land the first woman and first person of color on the moon, exploring more of the lunar surface than ever before. Astro educator Michelle Nichols will discuss the future plans and technologies that will get us back to the moon for the first time since 1972.

Ongoing events

Open enrollment is ongoing for the Addison Park District Preschool

The Addison Park District preschool program curriculum reflects the Illinois Early Learning and Development Standards. Visit www. illinoisearlylearning.org for more de-

tails. The Park District helps children develop prekindergarten skills, including letter/name recognition, listening skills, healthy habits, cooperative play, fine motor, and socialization skills. The experiences are both educational and recreational, which aid in social, physical, intellectual, and emotional growth. Registration is taken in-person at the Centennial Rec Center. Call (630) 233-7275 option 3 for registration availability. Visit addisonparks.org for required paperwork due prior to first day of program.

English reading circle

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

English conversation groups

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

English reading circle

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

Heroes story time

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

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

ESO to present ‘To A New World’ concert

Alltop highlights famous compositions inspired by early America

The Elmhurst Symphony Orchestra (ESO) will present To A New World on Saturday, March 11, at 7 p.m. at ESO’s home venue, Elmhurst Christian Reformed Church. The program features classic works by Coleridge-Taylor, Dvoák, and Tchaikovsky and includes guest musicians, cellist Jean Hatmaker and violinist Isabel Chen, the 2021 Stanger Young Artist Competition award recipient. The popular pre-concert lecture with Ted Hatmaker is back for this concert and will begin at 5:45 p.m.

What’s interesting about this concert

• Samuel Coleridge-Taylor, a British descendant of freed African-American slaves, was greatly inspired by American poet Henry Wadsworth Longfellow’s epic The Song of Hiawatha and chose to set the poem to music in what became one of the composer’s most wellknown pieces.

Coleridge-Taylor’s The Song of Hiawatha became so popular in Britain in the early 20th Century that it rivaled Handel’s Messiah and Men-

Women’s Club of Addison 2023-24 scholarships available

Now through Friday, March 24, the Women’s Club of Addison is accepting applications for two $1,500 scholarships for the 2023-24 academic school year, which will be awarded to two female graduating seniors who have been accepted to an accredited two or four-year college or university. Candidates may attend any high school but must be a current resident of the Village of Addison. Scholarships will be awarded

based on scholastic achievement, school involvement, community service and financial need.

Applications are currently available through the Addison Trail High School guidance department and at the Addison Village Hall information desk.

Decisions will be made in early April and the scholarships recipients will be announced no later than Friday, April 14.

Elmhurst University preps for 56th annual Jazz Festival

Performers include Gordon Goodwin’s Big Phat Band, John Pizzarelli Trio

Gordon Goodwin’s Big Phat Band and the John Pizzarelli Trio will be among the featured performers at this year’s Elmhurst University Jazz Festival, one of the oldest and bestknown collegiate festivals in the country.

The lineup of guest artists also includes award-winning jazz pianist Tamir Hendelman, noted jazz drummer and composer/arranger Dennis Mackrel, and acclaimed trumpet player Terell Stafford. They all will also serve as adjudicators at the Festival, which will be held from Thursday, Feb. 23, through Sunday, Feb. 26.

Most of this year’s sessions and featured performances will be offered both in person, in Hammerschmidt Memorial Chapel on the campus of Elmhurst University and via livestream.

Theatre in 1891.

• Dvoák’s Symphony No. 9 From The New World was written while the composer worked and toured the United States in 1893 — it was completed in fact in Spillville, Iowa. Inspired by African-American spirituals like Swing Low, Sweet Chariot and Native American music, Dvoák commented: “The future music of [the United States] must be founded on what are called [Black] melodies… They are the folk songs of America and your composers must turn to them.”

What’s playing

The program includes: The Song of Hiawatha Overture, by Coleridge-Taylor; Violin Concerto

Each year, the Elmhurst University Jazz Festival welcomes top college and university jazz bands from across the country to take part in four days of performances and education. The bands take turns performing for some of the greatest names in professional jazz today, who offer critiques and honors, and then give a performance of their own.

In addition to Elmhurst University, colleges and universities to be represented at the Jazz Festival include Calvin University, College of DuPage, Columbia College, Drake University, Harper College, Hillsdale College, Joliet Junior College, Purdue University, Roosevelt University, University of Illinois at Chicago, University of Kentucky, University of Wisconsin-Whitewater and Wayne State University.

More about the 56th annual Elmhurst University Jazz Festival

and master class with Hendelman, Mackrel and Stafford begins another day of college performances, followed that evening with performances by the Elmhurst University Jazz Band and Gordon Goodwin’s Big Phat Band. The Big Phat Band takes the big band tradition into the new millennium with a highly original sound featuring Goodwin’s compositions in a range of styles, including swing, Latin, blues, classical, rock and more.

• This concert features Isabel Chen, winner of the 2021 Stanger Competition, in a performance of Czech composer Antonín Dvoák’s (pronounced de-VOR-zhahk) Violin Concerto. The Dvořák Violin Concerto received its first U.S. performance in Chicago, just down the road at the Auditorium

I: Allegro ma non troppo by Dvoák; Pezzo capriccioso, by Tchaikovsky; and Symphony No. 9, From the New World, also by Dvoák.

Tickets and information

General admission tickets are $35 per person and reduced fare tickets for students and seniors are available online at ElmhurstSymphony.org/ event/to-a-new-world.

• The Festival kicks off at 12:30 p.m. on Thursday, Feb. 23, with the High School Invitational, made possible with the generous support of the Sylvia and William W. Gretsch Memorial Foundation.

• College and university band performances begin on Friday, Feb. 24. That evening’s feature performance will be given by Hendelman, Mackrel and Stafford with the renowned Elmhurst University Jazz Band, beginning at 7:30 p.m.

• On Saturday, Feb. 25, a clinic

• The Sunday, Feb. 26 program begins at 11:30 a.m. and concludes with a performance by the John Pizzarelli Trio at approximately 4:30 p.m. CST. Pizzarelli’s jazz guitar interpretations of the Great American Songbook have been credited with renewing the popularity of jazz. He has recorded more than 20 albums and toured North America, South America, Asia and Europe. This performance will be in-person only.

For tickets and information, visit elmhurst.edu/jazzfestival

SUBMITTED PHOTOS Rock Valley Publishing Gordon Goodwin

John Pizzarelli

delssohn’s Elijah!

SUBMITTED PHOTO Rock Valley Publishing Jean Hatmaker

Police Reports

Area police departments recently reported the following arrests and citations.

Readers are reminded that an arrest does not constitute a conviction, and that suspects are considered innocent unless proven guilty in a court of law. Persons charged with domestic battery are not named in order to protect the privacy of victims.

Juveniles age 17 or younger are not named.

Addison

Feb. 7

Luis E. Medina Aguilera, 29, of Hanover Park, was child endangerment in the 1400 block of W. Lake at 1:44 p.m.

Feb. 6

Rachel M. Wenker, 34, of Chicago, was charged with cocaine posses-

sion at 7:30 p.m.

Feb. 5

Rubysela Sanchez, 31, of Franklin Park, was charged with two counts of DUI and child endangerment near Lake and State at 12:26 a.m.

A 30-year-old Addison man was charged with two counts of domestic battery in the 500 block of Green Oaks at 12:25 p.m.

Feb. 4

Christine G. Hughes, 48, of Glen Ellyn, was charged with DUI in the 100 block of S. Lincoln at 9:08 p.m.

Feb. 3

Police said Jose A. Cendejas, 22, of Hanover Park, had a failure to appear warrant for obstructing identification and driving while license suspended near 8th and Jamey at 12:35 a.m.

Villa Park

Feb. 4

Andre L. Cosey, 29, of Calumet City, was charged with being a fugitive from justice at a store in the 1-100 block of E. St. Charles at 8:57 p.m.

A complainant at a store in the 200 block of W. North reported that a subject was causing a disturbance at 5:06 p.m. Officers spoke with the subject, who was then served with a no-trespass notice.

Feb. 3

Police said Cristian E. Ramirez Torres, 33, of Villa Park, was processed on an in-jurisdiction warrant in the 200 block of N. Princeton at 4:59 p.m.

A 16-year-old male juvenile was charged with two counts of disorderly conduct at Willowbrook High School and transported to a juvenile detention home.

A complainant at a store in the 300 block of E. St. Charles reported that a subject was causing a disturbance at 10:13 p.m.

Feb. 2

A complainant in the 700 block of N. Addison reported that suspects battered them.

Feb. 1

Retail theft was reported at a store in the 900 block of S. Route 83 at 6:09 p.m. A complainant reported a suspect removed multiple items from display shelves and left the store without paying. Later, items were recovered and the suspect was issued a no-trespass.

Theft was reported at a coffee shop in the 100 block of W. Roosevelt at 6:41 p.m. A complainant reported unknown suspect removed items that were left behind on a bench.

Jan. 31

Burglary was reported at a fitness center in the 300 block of W. North at 2:07 p.m. A complainant reported unknown suspect broke into their secured locker and removed their wallet. The complainant also reported the suspect used their credit cards at multiple stores.

Jan. 25

A complainant in the 400 block of W. Division reported that subjects were causing a disturbance at 4:14 a.m.

A complainant at a store in the 100 block of W. North reported that a subject was causing a disturbance at 4:29 p.m.

Fraud, identity theft

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

Unwanted person on property

According to information provided last week by the Villa Park Police Department, police reported two incidents of complainants having an unwanted person on their property.

Bensenville

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

Feb. 8, 1:36 p.m. in the 1000 block of N. Route 83, a complainant reported a retail theft at their place of busi-

ness by a known suspect. This case is under investigation. BEPC2300131

Feb. 8, 4:38 a.m. in the 500 block of Meyer Road, a complainant reported their work semi-truck was stolen. This case is under investigation.

Feb. 2, 3:41 p.m. in the 1000 block of Entry Drive, a victim reports someone stole catalytic converter from vehicle. The incident is under investigation. BEPC2300116

Feb. 1, 10:09 a.m. in the 700 block of Larsen Lane, a victim reports someone stole the catalytic converter from their vehicle. The incident is under investigation. BEPC2300113

Feb. 1, 1:17 p.m. in the 900 block of Glendale Street, a victim reports unauthorized transactions on a debit card. The incident is under investigation. BEPC2300114

Feb. 6, 10:23 a.m. in the 300 block of Green Street, Julius E. Fisher, 33, of Chicago, was arrested for an in-jurisdiction warrant. BEPC2300124

Feb. 6, 2:07 a.m. in the 1300 block of W. Irving Park Road., a 28-yearold Bensenville man was arrested for domestic battery. BEPC2300123

Feb. 5, 12:49 a.m. in the 100 block of S. York Road., JT JR. Harkey, 43, of Roselle, was arrested for driving under the influence and other traffic violations. Additional charges pending. BEPC2300121

Feb. 4, 3:59 p.m. in the 300 block of Green Street, police said Kyle J. Manning, 33, of Bensenville was arrested on a failure to appear in-jurisdiction warrant. BEPC2300120

Feb. 3, 10:31 p.m., on the 400 block of Supreme Drive, Ladarrance Davis, 30, of Cicero, was arrested for battery. BEPC2300119

DuPage County State’s Attorney Robert Berlin announced last week that two of six Chicago residents currently stand accused of stealing nearly $15,000 worth of merchandise from an Ulta retail store in Oak Brook last November. The two suspects have each been sentenced to three years in the Illinois Department of Corrections.

Peaches P. Johnson, 30, and Roy Crane, 22, each entered a plea of guilty to one count of burglary (Class 2 felony) in front of Judge Daniel Guerin, who handed down the sentences.

The cases against Johnson’s and Crane’s co-defendants, Kamal J. Hoskins, 26, and Darnell Profit, 21, are currently pending in front of Judge Guerin. Hoskins’ next court appearance is scheduled for Monday, April 24, and Profit’s next court appearance is scheduled for Wednesday, March 8. They are each facing one count of burglary (Class 2 felony) and one count of retail theft (Class 3 felony). The two juveniles involved have each entered a plea of guilty.

On Nov. 12, 2021, at approximately 5:44 p.m., the Oak Brook Police Department received infor-

Two Chicago residents get three years for burglary, retail theft at Oak Brook Ulta store

February is National Children’s Dental Health Month.

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

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

Teacher shortages: Everything old is new again, or is it?

By Shereen Oca Beilstein and Meg Bates

Headlines about teacher shortages abound as schools recover from the pandemic. The challenges teachers faced during the pandemic significantly increased, and many experienced burn-out so intense they considered resigning.

However, conversations about teacher shortages are nothing new—they predate the pandemic by decades. Although there is debate over the magnitude and severity of the issue, stakeholders generally agree on the importance of recruiting and retaining highly qualified teachers.

Addressing these shortages begs the question: Are the forces behind today’s teacher shortages the same as always? Or is something new happening in the wake of the pandemic?

To understand this issue, we recently surveyed 3,478 current and former educators in Illinois. Findings reveal a complex picture.

1. A majority of educators feel their salary is low.

Less than half of current and former educators agreed that their salary was appropriate, suggesting the importance of increasing educators’ salaries in general. But given that both current and former educators found their compensation to be lacking, pay might not be the main factor driving teacher shortages.

2. The biggest factor that motivates educators to leave—and to stay—is school leadership.

Only one-third of former educators felt supported by school leadership, compared to twothirds of current educators. School leadership clearly plays a critical role in promoting working conditions that retain educators, which ultimately supports student development.

3. COVID-19 safety was a concern for for-

mer educators.

More current educators reported feeling safe from COVID-19 in their schools than former educators, the majority of whom left during or after the pandemic. Given that safety was a concern of educators who left, checking in on the sense of safety for remaining educators might be a valuable practice for leadership going forward.

4. School policies must be transformed to align with the beliefs of educators of color. For educators of color, only one-fifth of those who were considering leaving their positions agreed that school policies aligned with their personal beliefs, compared to more than half of those who were considering staying. Supporting educators of color is important for many reasons, given the benefits for all students, especially students of color. But, as other scholars have asserted, this goal can be realized only if accompanied by structural changes to working conditions that have historically excluded these educators.

5. School leaders must cultivate supportive environments for early-career educators. For early-career educators, less than half of those who were considering leaving felt accepted in their workplaces, compared to 85 percent of those who were considering staying. With nearly half of teachers leaving the profession within 5 years, creating supportive environments—through programs such as mentoring— could be one mechanism to decrease attrition.

Shereen Oca Beilstein, PhD, is a research specialist at the Illinois Workforce and Education Research Collaborative (IWERC). Meg Bates, PhD, is the director of IWERC.

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$4 Mimosa - $6 Tito’s Bloody Mary

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

$17 Bottles of Woodbridge House Wine

$10 BACON Wrapped Mushrooms

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

$10 Bacon Stuffed Avocado

$8 Vegan Burrito (with side purchase)

$5 Stella Draft

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TUESDAYS

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$3 Chicken - Fish - Pork Belly - Steak

$4 Vegan Tacos - Impossible Meat - Chicken - Pork

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H VEGAN MENU @ Sebastian’s Vegan Chili Bowl - $7 Vegan Chicken Nuggets - $12 Vegan Meatballs - $15 Vegan Sausage and Peppers - $15 Vegan Chicken Sliders - $15 Impossible Sliders - $16 Vegan Kabobs - $18

H Vegan Southwest Quesadilla - $15 Impossible Burger - $17 Vegan Buffalo Chicken ‘Wich - $16 Vegan Chicken Parmesan ‘Wich - $18 Vegan Pasta - $14

THURSDAYS

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

$4 Drafts $8 and Under

Half Price Bottles of Wine $25 or More

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H Vegan Chicken Burrito - $18 Vegan Stuffed Peppers - $25 Vegan Sides - $5 10” Vegan Cheese Pizza - $13 Vegan Chocolate Peanut Butter Ice Cream - $5 3 Layer Vegan/Gluten Free Cake - $7

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H H in Lombard Sunday, Feb. 19 $10 Entry Fee • $5 Tasting Fee 1st Place $250 2nd Place $150 3rd Place $100 Samplings and Giveaways from Goose Island & Miller 36 Drafts HHH 350 Bourbons, Scotches & Whiskeys

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SUDOKU

Fun by the Numbers

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

CLUES ACROSS

1. River in Tuscany

5. A way to represent

8. Rocker’s guitar

12. Civil Rights group

14. Brew

15. Scratch

16. W. Asian country

18. The Eye Network

19. Clarified butter

20. Part of the Cascade Range

21. Downwind

22. A way to steer

23. Loop

26. Not ingested

30. Swampy coniferous forest

31. Musician

32. Signing

33. Containing iron

34. Part of a theorem or proof

39. Veterans battleground (slang)

42. Of enormous proportions

44. Italian city

46. Come before

47. Balm

49. Undergarments

50. Male parent

51. Ropes

56. Ear part

57. Investment vehicle

58. Dictator

59. Cain and __

60. A type of code

61. Border river along India and Nepal

62. It’s what’s for dinner

63. Consume

64. Christian __, designer

CLUES DOWN

1. Cuckoos

2. Skin issue

3. City in central Japan

4. Sorrels

5. Twinned diamond

6. Canadian province

7. Monetary units

8. Head honcho

9. Goddess of wisdom

10. Part of a play

11. Get rid of

13. Applicant

17. Bowling alleys have many

24. Explosive

25. “The Say Hey Kid”

26. Ultrahigh frequency

27. No (Scottish)

28. Make a mistake

29. Credit card term

35. Keyboard key

36. Woman (French)

37. In the middle of

38. Score perfectly

40. Coat a metal with an oxide coat

41. Deadly disease

42. A place to dock a boat (abbr.)

43. Belch

44. Member of U.S. Navy

45. “In __”: separate from others

47. Examine extensively

48. Adjust

49. Tattle

52. Actor Pitt

53. Gulls

54. Within

55. Exceptionally talented performer Answers

Advocacy groups push for expansive paid family, medical leave in Illinois

26-week leave policy would make Illinois the 12th state with paid leave laws

By Hannah Meisel CAPITOL NEWS ILLINOIS

A coalition of advocacy and labor groups is pushing for a state law to give Illinois workers 26 weeks of paid leave if they need to recover from an illness, domestic or sexual violence, or take care of a sick family member or new child.

The same groups just celebrated a legislative victory last month with the passage of five days of paid leave—negotiations that took four years but were ultimately agreed to by the state’s most influential business groups and even garnered some Republican votes.

After a quick rebrand to the Illinois Time To Care Coalition, advocates are pushing for a more ambitious leave policy, which would make Illinois the 12th state with mandatory paid family and medical leave. The United States is the only industrialized nation without a national paid parental leave law, while dozens of developing countries also have such policies.

“No one should have to choose a paycheck over their health and the health of their family,” said Wendy Pollack, Women’s Law and Policy Initiative director at the Chica-

go-based Shriver Center on Poverty Law.

The coalition’s initial proposal— encapsulated in Senate Bill 1234 and House Bill 1530—would cover all employers in Illinois and all employees who earn at least $1,600 annually. Paid leave would also apply to contract workers.

The benefits to workers would be paid out of a newly created special state fund. The law would require employers to pay 0.73 percent of the wages for their employees and contractors into the Family and Medical Leave Insurance Fund, similar to the state’s Unemployment Insurance Trust Fund.

An additional fee of up to 0.05 percent could be imposed through administrative rules for administering the program.

Those who need paid leave would need to provide documentation of pregnancy, adoption or guardianship of a new child, their own injury or illness, or that of a sick family member. The leave policy would also cover military-related time off and time needed to recover from sexual assault or domestic violence.

Those workers, if approved for leave, would receive 90 percent of

their average weekly wages for their leave period, up to a maximum of $1,200 per week. Eventually that maximum would be adjusted to 90 percent of the average weekly wage in Illinois.

Those potential payouts are in line with the policies of the 11 other states with paid leave laws, although no other state’s law is quite as permissive as the proposal being pushed in Illinois. For example, although Massachusetts allows for up to 26 weeks of total paid leave in one year, it provides for only 12 weeks of paid leave for new parents and those caring for a sick family member, and 20 weeks for those who can’t work due to a long-term illness. But advocates pushing for paid leave in Illinois are aiming for loftier goals than the programs in other states.

Christina Green, who now works for Chicago-based advocacy organization Women Employed, was only eligible for two weeks of leave when she gave birth to her son in 2020. She would only have had access to 12 weeks of paid maternity leave at the private school she worked at if she had been employed for seven or more years.

Instead of returning to work after those two weeks, Green said she drained her savings in order to take the 12 weeks she anticipated needing. And even then, Green said it wasn’t enough.

“It actually took me around 20 weeks to fully heal,” Green said.

“Unfortunately, I had no other options but to return to work … I literally budgeted down to the last dollar.”

Angelica Arreguin, a single mom and temp agency worker who organizes with the Chicago Workers Collaborative, shared through an interpreter that she was fired by her former employer when she couldn’t return to her job because her “injury did not heal on their schedule.”

“And if there comes a day that my children become ill and I need to leave work for a month, I expect to be fired instead of being allowed to return,” Arreguin said.

Advocates say paid parental leave would help ease the racial inequities suffered by women like Arreguin and Green, who is Black. The advocacy groups behind the proposal point to a permanent decrease in earnings for women who take time off to care for children or aging parents – an is-

sue set to become more prominent as Baby Boomers age into needing more medical care over the next decade or so.

The coalition is also selling paid leave as a boon for businesses, especially in a labor market where many employers have found it difficult to find or re-hire workers in the wake of COVID-19.

House sponsor state Rep. Sonya Harper, D-Chicago, said lack of a safety net is preventing many women from re-entering the workforce.

“If women in Illinois participated in the labor force at the same rate as women in countries with paid leave, there would be an estimated 124,000 additional workers in the state and 4.4 billion more wages,” she said. But business groups aren’t engaging with the proposal yet. Rob Karr, President and CEO of the influential Illinois Retail Merchants Association, turned the focus back to last month’s legislative agreement on five days of paid leave.

“Our focus is on the proper implementation of the historic paid leave bill that just passed the General Assembly and has yet to even be signed into law by the governor,” Karr said in a statement.

Proposed spending plan kicks off monthslong budgeting process each year

By Jerry Nowicki

CAPITOL NEWS ILLINOIS

Gov. JB Pritzker’s second-term legislative agenda kicks off in earnest this week as he proposes his fifth annual state budget to lawmakers in the General Assembly.

But while a governor’s proposal usually provides the framework for the state’s annual spending plan, it rarely makes it through the General Assembly untouched by lawmakers who have their own spending priorities.

The monthslong negotiating process involves dozens of budget hearings and behind-closed-doors meetings, eventually culminating in the budget’s passage—in normal years—sometime before the end of the legislative session. This year, lawmakers are scheduled to adjourn on May 19.

Pritzker’s address to the State Legislature took place Wednesday. Here are some issues Pritzker likely addressed on Wednesday:

Budget basics

While there are hundreds of funds in the state treasury with statutory requirements for how the money is spent, the most scrutinized is the General Revenue Fund, or GRF. That pool of money—which last year topped $50 billion for the first time—is the state’s main discretionary spending account, meaning lawmakers have the greatest authority to move it around.

Generally, about 80 percent of GRF spending is allocated between pension payments (roughly 21 percent in the current fiscal year), K-12 education (21 percent), human services (19 percent) and health care (17 percent). The fund’s main revenue sources are personal and corpo-

rate income tax and sales tax, along with some federal revenues and other state sources.

Since each budget allocates money collected over a future 12-month period, lawmakers generally base their spending proposals on economic estimates provided by the state’s two main forecasting agencies.

Those are the legislative Commission on Government Forecasting and Accountability, also known as COGFA, and the Governor’s Office of Management and Budget, also known as GOMB. Each provides sophisticated economic projections laying out pessimistic, optimistic and middle-of-the-road looks at how state revenues may perform.

Revenue projections

Illinois is coming off a record-high $50.3 billion in base revenue for the fiscal year that ended June 30—about $8 billion more than had been anticipated when the Fiscal Year 2022 budget was initially approved in the spring of 2021.

Following that strong performance, lawmakers budgeted for an 8 percent decrease in the current fiscal year that began July 1. But in the seven months that have already passed in FY 2023, revenues are outpacing even last year’s strong performance by $2.3 billion, according to COGFA’s January report

The strong revenue performance led COGFA to up its projections by $4.9 billion in a November forecast revision. The agency now anticipates revenue receipts will top last year’s totals by $259 million.

GOMB, meanwhile, was more conservative, projecting revenues to spike by about $3.6 billion over

initial estimates. That was the basis for a supplemental spending plan that included $2.7 billion in debt repayment and savings measures approved in the January lame duck session.

As the economic forecasting agencies mull the likelihood of a recession, we’ll be watching to see if Pritzker plans for a downturn in revenue or if the current-year projections for a surplus are updated in either direction.

Spending growth

In his second inaugural address last month, Pritzker telegraphed a few areas where he’d like to see increased state investment: child care, preschool and higher education.

“I propose we go all in for our children and make preschool available to every family throughout the state,” he said in his speech. “And let’s not stop there. Let’s provide more economic security for families by eliminating child care deserts and expanding child care options.”

On higher education, Pritzker said he’d like to make college tuition “free for every working-class family.”

Details on those plans are lacking, so one thing to watch will be whether the governor proposes spending amounts or any specifics as to how such plans would be implemented.

The governor’s K-12 education funding proposal is worth watching as well. The state’s school funding formula, revamped in 2017, calls for an added $350 million each year until all districts reach a point of funding adequacy.

The budget met that mark in three of four years during Pritzker’s first

term, keeping funding flat in only the fiscal year that coincided with the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic. It bears watching to see if another $350 million will be added to that in accordance with statute.

Spending growth is important to watch because GOMB’s five-year budget analysis projected Illinois could be in for a deficit of about $384 million and growing beginning in Fiscal Year 2025. Generally, that means the state must increase base revenues, cut expenditures or pass some combination of both.

While Illinois’ base sales and income tax rates have not changed in Pritzker’s time in office, the governor has taken credit for increasing revenues by eliminating some corporate tax exemptions and streamlining the way the state levies an online sales tax.

It remains to be seen what, if any, new revenue sources or structural spending reforms the governor might offer.

Pensions

At about $9.9 billion, the state’s GRF pension payment was its single biggest expenditure for the current year, topping the $9.8 billion spent on K-12 education.

And yet unfunded pension liability grew to $139 billion last year, despite the state having upped its pension contribution by $500 million beyond required levels over two years, including $200 million in the current year.

Due to that added funding, COGFA predicted in a special November pension briefing that the required pension payment for the upcoming fiscal year will decrease by about $38 million from the current year.

While that number reflects the payment required by law, the COGFA report outlined another annually repeated criticism of the state pension funding formula: accountants say it comes up short. The report estimated the state would have to increase its contribution by $4.4 billion this year to stave off continued increases in unfunded liabilities.

Lawmaker response

How easy a path the governor’s budget will have can often be gleaned from the initial response to it. And with Democrats dominating both chambers of the General Assembly, the response from the governor’s own party will likely be a stronger indicator.

Democratic comptroller Susana Mendoza, for example, said in a recent interview with Capitol News Illinois she’d be opposed to new ongoing spending initiatives. While she has no formal vote on the matter, her voice has proven an influential one at the Capitol.

But Republicans will also make their voices heard. The House GOP laid out its asks for the budget year last month, including greater GOP involvement, an earlier adoption of a revenue estimate and more time to review the budget. In recent years, state spending plans have frequently passed in the dead of night, leaving lawmakers mere hours to review their language.

The GOP’s specific policy asks include eliminating the corporate franchise tax—a plan Pritzker approved in 2019 before he and Democratic lawmakers backtracked on it in future budget years. They also called for property tax relief and “reducing the harmful impacts of the estate tax on family farms.”

Gutters

floor, 2 bedroom, 1 bath, locked storage on lower level, private laundry for each, private parking, available 2-15-23. $1,200 month each.

All real estate advertising in this newspaper is subject to the Fair Housing Act which makes it illegal to advertise any preference, limitation or discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, disability, familiar/ status or national origin, or an intention to make any such preference, limitation or discrimination. Familial status includes children under the age of 18 living with parents or legal custodians, pregnant women and people securing custody of children under 18. This newspaper will not knowingly accept any advertising for real estate which is in violation of the law. Our readers are hereby informed that all dwellings advertised in this newspaper are available on an equal opportunity basis. To complain of discrimination call HUD toll-free at 1-900669-9777. The toll-free tele phone number for the hearing impaired is 1-800-927-9275.

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Slices of life

Viewpoint Strong like …

A friend recently encouraged me to be “strong like bull.” I was a bit confused (not uncommon.) Somehow, I thought the phrase was “strong like bear.” Which, of course, lead me to the Google.

Turns out the phrase “strong like bull” is a pop culture reference from a handful of movies, TV shows and song lyrics. Bears may not have the media accessibility in reference to their strength that bulls do, but they’re not letting that stop them.

While bulls are indeed strong, an individual male grizzly has the strength of five humans. It’s unsure who’d win out in a headto-head match-up between these two formidable mammals, but their strength is of the brute force variety. Neither bears nor bulls are gentile or precise in their movements.

The phrase, “Like a bull in a china shop” exists for a reason. Bulls (and bears) are likely to destroy anything in their path. (And I’m not referencing the stock market.) I’m not sure I want that type of strength.

Sheer force is just one type of

Burglary

By JILL PERTLER Columnist

strength. There are other ways to be strong. Strong like…

A blade of grass. Grass starts out as a seed, underground in the dark. A little spark of hope alights inside it, causing it to break out of its seed casing and reach for the light. Grass is the strength of hope and faith.

I’d like that kind of strength. A drop of water. When added together, single drops of water become ounces and cups and gallons and lakes and rivers and oceans. They nourish the planet— from blades of grass, to trees, to insects, to sparrows, to bulls, to bears, to humans. A drop of water is necessary for life. It illustrates the importance of coming together. One drop alone—while wholly water in its own right—can’t do

(Continued from page 6)

mation from the Chicago Police Department that a vehicle suspected of being involved in illegal activity in Norridge was in front of the Ulta beauty store. Officers immediately responded but by the time officers arrived, the vehicle had fled the scene.

It is alleged that five male subjects, all wearing hoodies and ski masks, ran into the store. It is alleged that at least three of the individuals pulled out garbage bags and that all five subjects worked in unison, clearing out the shelves of fragrances into the garbage bags. It is further alleged that the subjects then fled the scene. Through the course of their investigation into the burglary, the vehicle was located driving southbound on I-294 at which time the Hinsdale Police De-

Answers

partment shut down the highway and took the suspects into custody. In all, it is alleged that the individuals stole 153 bottles of fragrance worth nearly $15,000.

“According to the National Retail Foundation, the epidemic of retail theft costs businesses $34.9 billion a year,” Berlin said. “The quick apprehension of the defendants in this case and the significant consequences for their criminal conduct sends the message that in DuPage County we will do everything we can to protect our businesses and shoppers by holding violent offenders accountable and law enforcement will use all resources, including shutting down a highway, in order to catch anyone suspected of committing a violent crime.”

much. But many drops united can accomplish what an individual drop can’t. It’s a nourishing, coming-together for the betterment of all strength. Water is the strength of unity. We can learn much from water.

The strength of water is cleansing and good.

A tree. Trees grow—long, solid, and steadfast. They are patient, looking down over the same landscape for decades and sometimes even centuries. They communicate in ways we are only starting to understand—through their roots to ward off insect parasites. They share water and nutrients. They breathe in carbon dioxide and create oxygen for animals and humans. They provide shelter from the sun and homes

to birds and other critters. They provide lumber for our homes. Trees tower over us, observing it all. They are the past, the present, and the future. They are the strength of perseverance, fortitude, and steadfastness.

It’s a strength worthy of wanting and waiting for. The sun. Our sun provides light and warmth to the planet, its people and all other animals and organisms that call Mother Nature “home.” The sun defines our days and our years. We mark time by her revolutions. We plant crops according to her seasons. She helps feed us and nurture us. She impacts the ocean’s tides. The sun’s strength is an allencompassing one—surrounding us all in her light from the day we

are born.

I aspire to a strength like the warmth of the sun. There are plenty of ways to be strong. I’m glad for that. To be strong like bull or bear might be formidable, but perhaps one-dimensional. Real strength involves more than muscles and a killer instinct.

It is hope. It is faith. It is unity. It is perseverance, fortitude and steadfastness. It is allencompassing. And more. So much more.

Be strong—whatever that means for you.

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.