AI041824

invited to apply for water bottle-filling station grant

Applications due April 30 for ‘H2O On the Go’ grant program

Delta Dental of Illinois Foundation and Illinois Children’s Healthcare Foundation are accepting 2024 applications for the annual H2O On the Go grant program.

The program replaces existing water fountains with new water bottle-filling stations at elementary, middle, and high schools throughout Illinois.

All Illinois elementary, middle, and high schools can apply for the H2O On the Go grant at deltadentalil.com/h2o-on-the-go. Schools without water-bottle filling stations will receive priority. The application deadline is April 30 at 5 p.m.

Enhancing health and sustainability with new water bottle-filling stations

Tooth decay, although mostly preventable, is the leading chronic disease among children. Choosing water instead of sugary beverages like soda, juice, and sports drinks can help reduce cavities by nearly 25 percent.

Plus, water can help keep teeth strong, boost energy levels, and increase students’ focus. In addition to helping students drink more water, H2O On the Go reduces waste and promotes conservation efforts.

The water bottle-filling stations are also touch-free, reducing germ exposure.

The H2O On the Go grant proIllinois schools

See GRANT, Page 3

InsIde:

Bartlett man found guilty but mentally ill in the stabbing death of his 93-year-old mother

DuPage County State’s Attorney Robert Berlin has announced Judge Daniel Guerin has found a former Bartlett man guilty but mentally ill in the stabbing death of his mother in 2019.

Judge Guerin rendered his verdict Friday, April 12, against Edward Mitzelfeld, 69, following a seven-day-long bench trial that concluded on March 22.

On May 31, 2019, facing five counts of first-degree murder, Mitzelfeld appeared in bond court, where bond was set at $5 million

with 10 percent to apply. He has remained in custody at the DuPage County Jail since that time.

On May 29, 2019, at approximately 5:23 p.m., officers with the Bartlett Police Department responded to a call at the home Mitzelfeld shared with his 93-year-old mother, Frances Kelly.

Upon their arrival, officers encountered Mitzelfeld in the front yard of the house with his hands raised. After entering the home, officers found Kelly lying face down on the

kitchen floor in a pool of blood. Following an investigation into the murder, it was determined that Mitzelfeld and Kelly were in the kitchen together when Mitzelfeld stabbed Kelly numerous times in the back with a kitchen knife leaving stab wounds that severed her aorta and entered her lungs.

After the murder, Mitzelfeld called 911.

“This is a tragic case that has surely taken a tremendous toll on Frances’ and Edward’s entire family,” Berlin said. “It is my sincerest hope that with the trial now behind them,

Frances’ surviving family and friends will somehow be able to gain some measure of closure on this horrible chapter in their lives and remember Frances for how she lived and not how she died.”

Mitzelfeld’s next court appearance is scheduled for May 10, for post-trial motions.

Mitzelfeld

DuPage Crisis Recover Center scheduled to open in summer of 2025

Will provide individuals experiencing a mental health or substance use crisis with somewhere to go for support 24/7

The DuPage County Board and DuPage County Health Department (DCHD), along with state and county officials, health and community partners, and local first responders, were in attendance to break ground on the DuPage Crisis Recovery Center (CRC).

Centrally located on the DCHD campus in Wheaton, the CRC is designed to be a single point of entry for individuals experiencing a mental health or substance use crisis. Individuals, family members, or first responders will be able to bring those experiencing a crisis to the center 24/7, where they will be screened and cared for by trained mental health and substance use professionals and connected with a warm hand off to community resources for continued support.

“I have long believed that we could provide a new gold standard of diagnosis, treatment, and help for all of our residents, including children.,” said Deborah Conroy, DuPage County Board chair. “We will provide mental health and addiction services for those who are insured, on public aid, and for those who are uninsured. This Crisis Recovery Center will be the missing piece in our system, keeping people out of emergency rooms and jail. We know it will change lives.”

The investment for the CRC totaled $25.8 million with $15.3 million provided by the DuPage Coun-

ty Board from the federal American Rescue Plan Act, $5.5 million from the state’s Rebuild Illinois Capital Plan and $5 million will be provided by the Health Department, which includes a $1 million grant from U.S. Rep. Sean Casten through the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.

“I am thrilled to see the DuPage County Health Department break ground on their Crisis Recovery Center,” said Casten. “I was proud to secure $1 million in federal funding for this project because I know how crucial it is that we address the mental health needs of our community. Individuals in crisis will greatly benefit from the services this center will provide, and by using the DuPage County Health Department’s hotline, folks can access services and care in a secure and serene environment.”

“The groundbreaking of the Crisis Recovery Center is a significant milestone in DuPage County Health Department and DuPage County’s ongoing and unwavering commitment to create the ideal behavioral health crisis system to effectively support DuPage County,” said Sam Tornatore, president, DuPage County Board of Health. “The CRC’s physical design and trauma-informed, recovery-focused approach to care will be a welcoming and supportive environment for individuals to start their journey to wellness and recovery.”

The CRC will reduce unnecessary

hospital emergency room visits, unnecessary 911 calls, and interactions with law enforcement that put a strain on public resources and are often not well-suited to address behavioral health crises. It will be staffed with crisis services counselors, psychiatrists/psychiatric nurse practitioners, case managers, and people with lived experience.

“The CRC will help individuals stabilize and connect to community resources to support their personal mental health and substance use treatment needs,” said Adam Forker, executive director, DuPage County Health Department. “The CRC can be an alternative to the emergency room or interactions with the criminal justice system for those having a mental health or substance use crises.”

The DCHD’s journey to build a behavioral health crisis system first began in the 1960s, when the agency launched its first mental health clinic and a 24/7 crisis hotline. Since then, it has expanded to include mobile crisis response teams for children, adolescents, and adults, outpatient substance use treatment programs, and a 12-bed crisis residential unit for short-term stabilization for residents over 18 years old.

The Crisis Recovery Center is scheduled to open in the summer of 2025. This center is designed by architect Wight & Company to be an intentional space that promotes healing and well-being for all who enter.

Several state and DuPage County officials attended the recent ground-breaking ceremony of the DuPage Crisis Recovery Center, scheduled to open in the summer of 2025. Breaking ground on the center were, from left to right: Michael Cabonargi, Department of Health and Human Services Region 5 regional director; David T. Jones, Illinois Chief Behavioral Health Officer; U.S. Rep. Sean Casten, Illinois 6th

the LTM Foundation and an addiction recovery coach at Serenity House; Dr. Dana Weiner, director of the Children’s Behavioral Health Transformation Initiative; Sam Tornatore, DuPage County Board of Health President and a DuPage County Board member; and Adam Forker, executive director of the DuPage County Health Department. The other photo (top right) shows an artist’s rendition of the building.

Local quilter a semi-finalist in international quilt show

Sandra Cord of Lombard is a semifinalist for 2024 AQS QuiltWeek® to be held April 2427, at the Schroeder Expo Center in Paducah, Kentucky. Cord has been chosen to display the quilt, FUN WITH X’S AND O’S (above), along with 387 others in this contest.

First, second and third place, along with honorable mention prizes in 16 categories, will be awarded, along with nine overall awards. Winners will be announced at the AQS Awards presentation. More than $127,000 will be granted, including $20,000 for the Janome America Best of Show Award and $12,000 for AQS Best Hand Workmanship Award, BERNINA of America Best Stationary Machine Workmanship Award, and the Handi Quilter Best Movable Machine Workmanship Award. Regardless of how FUN WITH X’S AND O’S places in the final judging, all semi-finalist quilts will be displayed at the show, which is expected to draw more than 30,000 people. The American Quilter’s Society hosts several shows annually, each with its own contest. Besides the Paducah show, AQS hosts other shows in Daytona Beach, Florida; Branson, Missouri; Grand Rapids, Michigan; and Lancaster County, Pennsylvania. For more information, visit americanquilter.com. Quilts were entered into this international contest from 42 states and 11 countries.

Edward

CouNtY heALth depARtmeNt Rock Valley Publishing

Congressional District; Deborah Conroy, DuPage County Board chair; Felicia Miceli, founder and president of

Police arrest man in possession of altered fully-automatic machine gun

Was also driving allegedly stolen vehicle; pre-trial release denied

DuPage County State’s Attorney

Robert Berlin and Westmont Chief of Police James Gunther have announced that Judge Michael Reidy granted the state’s motion to deny pre-trial release for a Westmont man allegedly found in possession of a loaded gun that had been altered to allow it to fire in fully automatic mode.

Canutie Collins, 20, appeared in First Appearance Court and is charged with one count of unlawful use of a weapon—machine gun (Class X felony) and one count of unlawful possession of a stolen motor vehicle (Class 2 felony).

Collins’ co-defendant, Mathias Henyard, 18 of Chicago, also appeared in First Appearance court and is charged with one count of unlawful possession of a stolen motor ve-

hicle, a non-detainable offense under the dangerousness standard.

On Thursday, April 11 at approximately 2:26 p.m., Westmont police officers observed a blue 2016 Nissan Rogue reportedly stolen out of Rockford earlier that day backed into a parking stall on Oakley Drive South with two occupants, later identified as Collins and Henyard, inside the vehicle.

It is alleged that a short time later the Nissan pulled out of the parking lot eastbound on Oakley Drive South. The officers followed the vehicle to a parking lot on Oakley Drive North where, after parking the car, the men allegedly took the rear license plate off the vehicle before exiting the parking lot. It is alleged that a short time later as Collins returned to the Nissan, officers ordered

him to stop walking and told him he was under arrest.

It is alleged that Collins attempted to run from the officers but was taken into custody after a brief struggle. At this time, officers allegedly observed Henyard in the driver’s seat of the Nissan. It is alleged that Henyard originally drove toward the officers but then exited the vehicle and attempted to flee on foot. He was taken into custody at this time. After handcuffing Collins, officers allegedly observed the barrel of a handgun sticking outside of a backpack that Collins was wearing.

The gun was later identified as a loaded Glock 19, 9mm with one round in the chamber and an extended magazine. The weapon was altered to allow it to fire as a fully automatic weapon.

“Public safety remains the top priority of my office and the allegation that Mr. Collins unlawfully possessed an extremely dangerous, fully-loaded gun capable of firing as a machine gun, is outrageous,” Berlin said. “To further aggravate the matter, it is further alleged that both these men were in possession of a vehicle stolen out of Rockford earlier the same day. Allegations such as those against these defendants will not be tolerated in DuPage County and will be fully prosecuted. I commend the Westmont Police Department for their efforts in this case that removed a dangerous weapon from our streets as well as for their ongoing commitment to public safety.”

The next court appearance for both men is scheduled Monday, May 6 for arraignment in courtroom 4014.

In unrelated incidents, two men found in possession of loaded guns at recreation facility

Both denied pre-trial release

DuPage County State’s Attorney Robert Berlin and Naperville

Chief of Police Jason Arres have announced that Judge Demetrios Panoushis granted the state’s motion to deny pre-trial release for two men, in unrelated incidents, who were both allegedly found to be in possession of a loaded gun at a Naperville recreation facility.

Dijon Lane, 34, of Blue Island, appeared in First Appearance Court and is charged with one count of armed habitual criminal (Class X felony), one count of unlawful use of a weapon by a felon (class 3 felony) and one count of misdemeanor unlawful possession of cannabis by a driver.

Tavell Jackson, 44, of Maywood, appeared in First Appearance Court and is charged with one count of armed habitual criminal (Class X felony), one count of unlawful use of a weapon by a felon (Class 3 felony) and one count of unlawful possession of a controlled substance (Class 4 felony).

• Grant

(Continued from front page)

gram was launched in 2020 as part of Delta Dental of Illinois Foundation and Illinois Children’s Healthcare Foundation’s shared initiatives to improve the overall health and well-being of Illinois children. In the first four years of the H2O On the Go program, 277 Illinois schools have received a water bottle-filling station. To review past recipients or to apply for the H2O On the Go program, visit deltadentalil.com/h2o-on-thego.

On Friday, March 29 at approximately 6:30 p.m., Naperville police officers on patrol at Topgolf on Odyssey Court, observed an odor of cannabis coming from a vehicle. As officers surveilled the vehicle, they observed a man, later identified as Lane, enter the driver’s seat of the vehicle.

Officers approached the vehicle, spoke with Lane and asked him to exit the vehicle. It is alleged that as Lane exited the vehicle, officers observed in plain view a gun, later determined to be a loaded Taurus .40 caliber PT740 with eight rounds in the magazine, tucked inside an opening near the gas pedal.

Lane was taken into custody at this time. On Saturday, March 30 at approximately 10:05 p.m., officers

again on routine patrol at Topgolf allegedly observed a handgun, later determined to be a loaded Taurus 9mm Millenium G2 with 12 rounds in the magazine, in plain view in the netting pocket on the back of the front passenger seat of a vehicle. As officers surveilled the vehicle, they observed a man, later identified as Jackson, enter the rear passenger seat of the vehicle.

Officers pinned in the vehicle with their cars and ordered Jackson out of the vehicle. Jackson was taken into custody at this time. It is further alleged that when police took Jackson into custody, officers found 12.4 grams of crack cocaine in his jacket.

“Public safety remains the top priority of my office,” Berlin said. “As convicted felons, both of these men

have forfeited their right to legally possess a firearm. What I find particularly troubling are the allegations that both men brought a loaded firearm to a family friendly recreation facility. This type of behavior is inexcusable and will be fully prosecuted. I commend the Naperville Police Department for their continued commitment to public safety and for their proactive efforts in these two cases that resulted in the removal of dangerous weapons from our streets.”

Lane’s next court appearance is scheduled Monday, April 22 for arraignment in front of Judge Margaret O’Connell. Jackson’s next court appearance is scheduled Monday, April 29 for arraignment in front of Judge O’Connell.

Blair-Sherlock to host upcoming seminars

ABLE presentation takes place April 24

State Rep. Diane Blair-Sherlock (D-Villa Park) will be offering the opportunity for her district to attend a presentation on Illinois ABLE “Achieving a Better Life Experience” from 7-8 p.m. on Wednesday, April 24 at her district office, 28 S. Villa Ave., Villa Park.

ABLE accounts give people with disabilities and their families greater financial independence while preserving benefits.

There also will be an ICash representative from the State Treasurer’s office who can look up if you have any unclaimed money. If you would like to attend remotely, email JaxWest.D46@gmail.com

Parents, educators invited to PUNS seminar

Blair-Sherlock invites parents and

educators to a PUNS seminar to be held from 6-7:30 p.m. April 23 at the District 88 administration office, 2 Friendship Plaza, Addison. PUNS is a database that registers individuals who want or need developmental disability waiver services (i.e. community integrated living arrangements, home based supports, child group homes) funded by the Illinois Department of Human Services/Division of Developmental Disabilities.

RSVP for this event by calling 630-415-3520 or email JaxWest. D46@gmail.com

Blair-Sherlock-sponsored property tax appeals seminars upcoming

Attorneys Jack Kozar and Jay Kostecki will hold a brief presenta-

tion that will include how property taxes are calculated and what assistance may be available to help lower your property taxes with a Q & A session to follow.

The locations and dates are as follows:

• Monday, April 29 from 6-7 p.m.at the Addison Public Library in the Large Meeting Room (4 Friendship Plaza, Addison).

• Wednesday, May 1 from 6-7 p.m. at the Glenside Library in the Community Room 1 (25 E Fullerton, Glendale Heights)

• Thursday, May 2 from 6-7 p.m. at the Villa Park Library in the Meeting Room (305 S Ardmore, Villa Park).

If you have any questions, call 630-415-3520 or email at JaxWest. D46@gmail.com.

Opinion

Slices of life

It is what it is

“It is what it is.”

I’ve said this phrase quite a few times - many even. So much so that now, when I hear someone else fall back on these five words, I understand their secret, sorrowful, message. It is what it is.

What it means:

I can’t change my current circumstances, but I desperately wish I could.

Life isn’t fair, and right now it feels very unfair.

I feel defeated. Empty. Up against all odds.

I want to cry, but don’t want to right now because I’m all cried out. I feel very, very alone. I need a hug. And so on. (You get the gist.) It is what it is. Sigh.

It is a sadness we never anticipated. It is an aloneness we never thought we’d know. It is a life we thought we’d never live. It is a grief that is infinite and we don’t know how to tell you this in a simple sentence or two so we sum it up in the only way we know how:

It is what it is. Deep sigh.

The phrase says so much while divulging so little. If you hear it, read between the lines, because there is much more there than just five words. Often, so much pain. So much regret. So much worry. So much anxiety. So much stress. So much despair.

So much wishing someone else understood. So much wishing someone would reach out and really, truly attempt to understand.

It is what it is. Catch your breath and try not to cry.

Most of us have been there at one time or another. If you haven’t, consider yourself lucky. But when you are at one of your “it is what it is” moments in life, know this and know this for certain: you aren’t alone, even though it certainly feels that way and seems that way and looks that way. You are never alone. Life does not want you to be alone.

So even in those weary moments deep, deep into the late night when

By Jill Pertler Columnist

sleep is elusive and the shadows creep into the corners and your whisper echoes against the windows and the walls, you may feel alone, but you are not.

It is what it is. But you are never alone.

The human psyche fears isolation and vulnerability. So we put our defense mechanisms in place. We put on a brave face. We hesitate to ask for help. We pretend everything is normal and that we are all right.

When just the opposite might be true - is true.

But that’s okay because it is what it is. And there may be some hope in that.

What it is doesn’t have to stay “what it is” forever. What it is can change - it will change. That is a guarantee.

Until it does, breathe. Just breathe. Even in the loneliest of moments, try to remember you are not alone. You are aligned with all the others who are articulating the exact sentiment as you: It is what it is.

You may not know them or see them, but you are with them in ways you do not perceive, yet you do.

And together you’ll get through this. You will.

Because it is what it is. And that doesn’t always have to be all bad. Quite the opposite.

But we have to be patient. I’m trying.

Because it is what it is. And we are in this together. Waiting. Sending love.

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.

Guidelines for writing, submitting a letter to the editor

Rock Valley Publishing encourages our readers to reach out to the community by writing a letter to the editor.

Letters are limited to 400 words. If a letter exceeds 400 words, it will be sent back to the author to reduce the length of the letter. Authors must include their first and last name, the city or village in which they reside, and a phone number and email address where they can be reached in case there are questions.

Send letters to: news1@rvpublishing.com

Letter-writers will be limited to one letter per month except for locally elected officials, or individuals specifically associated with local village governments or entities such as school districts, park districts or library districts.

No letters directed to a third party will be accepted for publication.

We reserve the right to edit a letter for reasons of clarity, space restrictions and libel

Confronting the FDA on toxic heavy metals and illegal Chinese vaping products

By U.S. Rep. Raja Krishnamoorthi

During an April 11 hearing of the Committee on Oversight and Accountability, I confronted Food and Drug Administration (FDA) Commissioner Dr. Robert Califf about the administration’s ongoing efforts to limit the amount of toxic heavy metals in baby food.

In 2021, I released an investigatory report that revealed that leading baby foods have lead levels up to 177 times the amounts allowable in drinking water. One month later, the FDA announced it would regulate toxic heavy metals in baby food for the first time under a program called Closer to Zero.

However, the FDA has repeatedly missed its own deadlines for updated guidance and regulations despite years of multiple inquiries by myself and colleagues and the real-life consequences of inaction, including the recent recall of popular brands of cinnamon applesauce pouches due to reports of lead poisoning.

The lack of urgency and continual lack of updates are endangering the lives and wellbeing of our children. It’s critical that the FDA provide updates to the Closer to Zero program as soon as possible to impose regulations on dangerous and toxic heavy metals like lead, arsenic, cadmium, and mercury found in our baby food.

I also questioned Dr. Califf about

stemming the flow of illicit and illegal vape products coming to the U.S. from the People’s Republic of China (PRC). Even though the FDA has not authorized flavored vaping products in America, the market has been flooded with flavored vapes, with most of them imported from the PRC.

As Ranking Member of the Select Committee on the Strategic Competition Between the United States and the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) and as the leader of the Bipartisan Congressional Caucus to End the Youth Vaping Epidemic, I’m committed to preventing the importation and sale of these illegal vapes. I am incredibly disappointed by the FDA’s refusal to use its power to clear these illicit products from store shelves to prevent the youth vaping epidemic from growing worse.

legislation to end arbitrary education requirements for federal contractors

On April 10, the bipartisan Allowing Contractors to Choose Employees for Select Skills (ACCESS) Act which I introduced with Congresswoman Nancy Mace (R-SC) unanimously passed the Committee on Oversight and Accountability.

This legislation, which eliminates arbitrary education and experience requirements for those applying for government contracting positions, builds on my longstanding stance on improving Career and Technical Education (CTE) funding and ending the “paper ceiling” of unnecessary edu-

cation requirements for all qualified employees.

This bipartisan bill would help ensure hard-working Americans who have qualified for the job through other means such as skills and experience have a fair opportunity during the interview process.

Bipartisan advocacy for solar energy

Also on April 10, I hosted a briefing on the importance of solar energy with my co-chair of the Congressional Solar Caucus, Congressman Ralph Norman (R-SC). More than 225,000 Americans work in the solar industry, and there are over 10,000 solar companies in every state, including in Illinois. As someone who used to work in the solar industry, I know how critical it is that governments at all levels are on the same page to ensure the future of green energy is made in America.

Thanks to investments made by President Joe Biden and passed by Congress in the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA), more families have the opportunity to transition to solar energy affordably and conveniently.

Democrats and Republicans agree that the American solar industry must be second to none, and I look forward to continuing to work with Congressman Norman and the rest of the Congressional Solar Caucus to achieve this reality.

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

I live in an area in Lombard where we have many duplexes. I would like to know how many people can live in each unit? The landlord indicates that parents and children live in each unit, who are under the age of driving. If that is the case, why are there so many cars; more than four for each unit? They park the cars in the back of the units and on the streets all night. Don’t see anything on the village site for regulations. Why can the landlord get away with so many people in these units? Of course, they collect the rent. So does the village get money from the landlord for these units to allow all these people living in them? The landlord also collects rent from other apartment buildings. I wonder how many people live in those apartments. So there are no rules for people who rent?

Editor’s note: Your inquiry was forwarded to Lombard officials for a response, which is as follows:

“The Village has established occupancy requirements based on the square footage of the occupiable space within the given dwelling units based on the International Property Maintenance Code.

“Additionally, provisions in the Village’s Zoning Ordinance define ‘family’ to distinguish it from other housing arrangements. Fair Housing Act provisions also apply.

“For any code enforcement concerns, please contact the Village’s Code Enforcement staff at (630) 620-5757 or email codeenforcement@villageoflombard.org for assistance.”

Now that the District 87 referendum has passed, and by only about 400 votes (what does that tell you about how taxpayers feel, District 87 officials?), we as taxpayers must be vigilant in overseeing, being watch-

dogs, on how the money is spent. What can be pared back or eliminated, where more money can be saved in the operating budget (think top-heavy administrator salaries) to help pay more for the projects instead of having to borrow the whole $183 million. It is obvious the school board members—whom we elected to represent us, don’t forget—are just as eager to spend our money as any other governing body. They certainly don’t speak for me.

* * *

I take issue with the caller who stated that the Village of Lombard should propose and pass a cease-fire resolution (April 11 Speak Out). This caller, and those who have spoken at the last two Lombard Village Board meetings, conveniently say nothing about who started the war in Gaza. It was started by Hamas on Oct. 7, when Hamas terrorists in Gaza crossed the Israeli border, killed over 1,200 people and took over 240 hostages. Some of those killed were either beheaded or burned alive. The caller states that Israel is committing genocide. Oh really? If Israel is committing genocide, then why has Israel been facilitating massive amounts of humanitarian assistance to Gaza, including food, water, medicine, fuel and shelter supplies, and giving civilians plenty of advance notice to get out of areas where they are conducting military operations?

* * *

Yes, I’m just wondering what gives people who live along the Prairie Path in Lombard the right to cut down all their trees and then throw them onto the side of the Prairie Path so that it looks terrible; and who’s going to clean all that up? Thanks.

Editor’s note: The following is a response from Village of Lombard officials: “The Illinois Prairie Path

How Speak Out works

• Speak Out is a forum in which readers can express their opinion anonymously concerning local, state, national and international topics. Each call is limited to 200 words whether the caller calls 630-629TALK or emails their opinion to speakout@rvpublishing.com.

• The views expressed by callers are their own.

• All calls are checked by four editors. If a consensus of editors believes a particular call is deemed to be in poor taste, erroneous, inaccurate, libelous, doesn’t make sense, or if claims stated in a call cannot be verified, the call will not be published.

• With regard to calls of a political nature, it is not possible to have an equal balance of calls with liberal and conservative viewpoints during any given week. The editors of Speak Out don’t have control of who calls in, what their political leanings happen to be, and the topic(s) they want to discuss.

• If you have further questions about Speak Out, email: news1@ rvpublishing.com.

and Great Western Trail are under the jurisdiction of DuPage County Department of Transportation. Questions regarding the removal of vegetation should be directed to the DuPage DOT at DOT@dupagecounty.gov or 630-407-6900.”

* * *

I’m surprised the schools didn’t take Monday (April 8) off for the solar eclipse. With all the days off and vacation days kids in school seem to get nowadays, what’s one more day off?

* * *

More back and forth between the school districts, Arlington Heights and Bears officials, and throw in tax assessors to boot. I understand the school districts in the area wanting to get the most they can in revenues— if Arlington Heights offers a TIF or other tax breaks—but as it stands, what kind of revenue are these districts getting now, as development is on hold? Squabbling over property assessments, etc., is costing time and taxpayer money (think school districts paying for attorneys), and in the long run, I wouldn’t blame the Bears management if they did decide to stay in Chicago or find another location that would welcome them. I know (painfully so here in Lombard) that property taxes are the economic engine that drives the school districts, but it smells like greed, when they could likely be getting more revenue than they did when the property was the site of a horse-race track. Because of appearances, district officials have denied being greedy, but if it walks like a duck and quacks like a duck, well, you know the rest.

* * *

When will the Tidal Wave Car wash on Roosevelt Road be open for business? Looks like it’s been ready to open for months?

Editor’s note: A check on their website says it is “coming soon,” and you can find out more at www. tidalwaveautospa.com/location/ lombard-il or call 706-938-0991.

* * *

The Democrats have better think tanks to manipulate a large part of Americans who don’t pay attention to politics or what is going on in Washington. The next time you hear someone complain about inflation and the condition of the country, ask

Coming events

ABLE, ICash presentations

April 24

April 24, from 7-8 p.m., District Office, 28 S. Villa Ave., Villa Park. State Rep. Diane Blair-Sherlock will offer the opportunity for her district’s residents to attend a presentation on Illinois ABLE “Achieving a Better Life Experience” accounts that give people with disabilities and their families greater financial independence while preserving benefits. An ICash representative from the Treasurer’s office will attend and can check if you have any unclaimed money. To attend remotely, email JaxWest.D46@gmail.com.

‘Girls Who Code’ program at Villa Park Library

Calling all girls to come to the Villa Park Public Library every Wednesday at 3 p.m. beginning on May 1, at 3 p.m. In this coding club,

them who they voted for and why.

* * *

So once again Trump says he has billions of dollars of cash, but can’t post, or even get a loan for, a fraction of the cash bond he is ordered to pay. Just another of the tons of lies from this person who is obviously in debt to the Russians and Chinese. So, now he is selling Bibles; Bibles with a copy of the Constitution that he says he will ignore if he is, God forbid, reelected. He also says he will be a dictator for a day. That’s pretty impossible considering he thinks he has the answer to every problem on Earth. A dictator takes away everyone’s rights to everything; your very livelihood, including cash and homes. Please think about who you support.

* * *

Sandro, Re: your “Man Card.” (column April 4 issue). I suppose kudos are pending since you actually admitted watching “The Bachelor.” Yikes. By the way, there isn’t a bad Van Morrison song, although “Brown Eyed Girl” has some personal relevance. How about “Send in the Clowns.” Just keep in mind that “The Bachelor” is just a short step away from “The View” and permanent revocation of your Man Card.

* * *

The liberals running Washington are experts in manipulating the English language. The word fair can be spelled two ways, but sounds the same. Is it fair to pay the fare of college students, who ran up debt for their education, to buy their votes? Before you know it, they’ll be paying my car payments off to get my votes if I buy an electric car.

I read a commentary in Speak Out (April 11) regarding a reader’s views of Patrice James’ article of March 28, regarding the “success” of the Pretrial Fairness Act. When I read this article I was taken aback about the original author’s views and obvious evasion of the truth of this horrible law. I wanted to comment my disgust on this article, but didn’t know where to begin. The above-mentioned reader’s views summed up the article content nicely: ”Propaganda.” The title of the act alone should send off warning bells; “Fairness” Act? Is it fair to release pre-trial, dangerous criminals just because a blanket statement in

girls will explore basic computer science skills, develop coding skills and learn computational thinking through discussion, team building, and hands-on activities. Computers and materials will be provided for class usage. Registration is required. For more information, visit the library’s website at www.vppl.info or call 630-834-1164.

Drop-In Sewing Craft at Plum Library

April 27

Saturday, April 27, from 10:30a a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Stop by our Studio 411 makerspace to check out the sewing machines and make a beginner-level project. A staff member will be available to answer questions about the library’s sewing machines. Sewing machines are available for ages 18 and up, but library kids are welcome with their library grownups.

the law prohibits pre-trial detention for certain parameters of offenses, and removes the power of detention/ release from the judges, regardless of the crime committed or the criminal history of the accused? This law is another erosion of justice in a continuous downslide of Illinois politics, using “racial injustice” as a justification. My hat’s off to the courageous judges who do all they can to defy the nonsensical rules of detention, and my hat’s off to the reader who inspired me to write on this topic. If you can’t do the time, don’t do the crime.

* * *

Entitlement is a common word that the Democrats use to buy votes. Is also becoming popular with illegal immigrants who come to America and are given all the amenities that Americans have to pay for: free health care, free housing, free transportation, pre-schooling, and coming soon is voting. We are personally paying for it with rising taxes and our increasing cost of living. Thank you.

*

* *

Dear grocery stores. I do not want to buy two and get two free of anything. Please just sell me one at a decent price.

* * *

I keep hearing politicians on the left and Biden say how the rich need to pay their fair share in taxes. The top 10 percent of income earners pay more than 60 percent of all federal taxes and 76 percent of income taxes. Here’s something to think about this tax season: When was the last time the government stopped spending more than their fair share of taxpayer money? When you add up federal and state taxes, property taxes and local taxes such as for gasoline and sales taxes, do you ever wonder how much of a percentage of your total income goes to taxes of every kind? Yet the government continues to have their hands out, and want more and more. Enough! How about either freezing government spending at their current rates, or cut the budgets of every federal department 2 or 3 percent. That’s not asking much. If someone like me has to reduce or cut spending in order to live within their means, then the government needs to live with their means, too. They shouldn’t get a blank check.

GPS program

April 23

The Glenbard Parent Series: (GPS) Navigating Healthy Families will present “How to Talk to Kids and Make the Tough Talks Easier: Relationships, Teen Health and More” with teen development specialist Robyn Silverman at noon and 7 p.m. Tuesday, April 23, via Zoom. Silverman will present five things caregivers need to know (and what to avoid) in order to listen, talk and connect with tweens and teens. Silverman will provide takeaways so participants leave feeling confident and ready to talk with their kids about any topic. Go to glenbardgps.org for further information and the links to these two webinars. To be placed on a reminder list for GPS events or submit a question in advance, contact Gilda Ross, Glenbard District 87 student and community projects coordinator, at gilda_ ross@glenbard.org or 630-942-7668.

out& about Jane Charmelo

Girl Scout troop members working toward Silver Award

Feminine products collected, donated to DuPage Pads

Realizing that many of the clients assisted by DuPagePads are girls and women—and working toward earning a Silver Award—four members of Girl Scout Cadette Troop 55355 took on a project to make sure these clients have access to feminine hygiene products.

Starting about two years ago, “At the beginning of their Silver Award process, we all sat down to brainstorm ideas,” said troop leader Ellen Gaynor, who said the four Glenn Westlake Middle School eighth-grade participants, (one is 13 and the other three are 14) were looking to “work toward something that will make a difference,” adding that the need for feminine hygiene products is “one of the things they researched during their brainstorming.”

She also mentioned that a representative from DuPagePads came and talked to the troop, which had an impact on their decision to collect feminine hygiene products they could donate to the DuPage County nonprofit organization.

Over the course of that two years, Gaynor continued, the girls spent some 200 hours working on the project, “setting up the drives at Lombard Jewel and Lombard Pharmacy, creating flyers and posters for the drive, creating and maintaining the Amazon Wishlist, inventorying the items, shopping for more items as needed … planning how they will be putting the packs together [how many items per bag, what kind of items they wanted to put in the bags] and putting the packs together, and delivering them to DuPagePads.”

According to Gaynor, the girls collected over 2,500 feminine hygiene products, 1,500 hand sanitizing wipes and over 1,500 feminine wipes, along with other feminine hygiene products, all adding up to over 400 packs.

The girls also collected $400, she added.

However, organizing the project, seeing it through and delivering the supplies were not enough to earn a Silver Award, Gaynor said, citing that the award is “the highest award a Girl Scout Cadette can earn.”

(The troop had already earned a Bronze Award a few years ago when they created bee “hotels” for pollinators.)

She explained that for a project to be eligible for the Silver Award, “It has to be sustainable. It can’t just be a ‘one and done’ … making a bigger impact than [a] one and

Coming events

Elmhurst Symphony Concert May 4

The Elmhurst Symphony Association (ESA) announces its upcoming concert, La Mer, set to enchant audiences on Saturday, May 4, at 7 p.m. The performance will take place at the Elmhurst Christian Reformed Church (ECRC) in Elmhurst. Audiences are invited to attend a pre-concert lecture by Assistant Conductor Eli Chen beginning at 5:45 p.m. in the Upper Gathering Area of ECRC. Tickets may be ordered online, by phone, or at the box office the day of the event. Senior and student ticket prices are available. To purchase tickets visit ElmhurstSymphony.

done.”

So, besides providing reusable underwear— “since it can be used for a numerous amount of times”—the girls made a video, “a how-to tutorial to bring to their local food pantry or women’s shelters,” the leader described.

In the video, the girls thanked the Lombard Jewel, the Lombard Pharmacy and the community for their support, and proceeded to outline the steps they took to complete the project, so that other groups could set up their own project.

org or call the ESA office (Monday through Friday, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.) at 630-941-0202. To hear the concert pieces ahead of time visit ElmhurstSymphony.org. Elmhurst Christian Reformed Church is located at 149 W. Brush Hill Road, Elmhurst, IL 60126.

Radio-Controlled

Model Aircraft at Villa Park Library Interested in model aircrafts?

Come to the Villa Park Public Library on Wednesday, May 1, at 7 p.m., to explore the radio-controlled model airplane hobby. Learn about legal requirements of this hobby, including new FAA regulations. Get

The packs are scheduled to be delivered to the DuPagePads site on Butterfield Road in Downers Grove on Monday, April 22, the leader related, and when asked why the supplies were being delivered to that location specifically, she responded: “They did a community service day there. That’s where they decided to donate the supplies.”

Hannah, one of the four girls involved in the project, commented, “’Period Poverty’ is something that needs to be focused on more. We helped a lot more people than I thought

suggestions on the best models to start with and the steps to learn to fly it successfully. See examples of radio-controlled models and equipment. Registration for this program is required. For more information, visit the library’s website at www. vppl.info or call 630-834-1164.

PUNS Seminar April 23

Rep. Diane Blair-Sherlock invites parents and educators to a PUNS Seminar on April 23rd from 6-7:30 p.m. at the District 88 Administration Office, 2 Friendship Plaza in Addison. PUNS is a database that registers individuals who want or need Developmental

we would.”

Gaynor summed up the Girl Scout Cadettes’ project simply by saying that it was “something they felt was a need.”

Girl Scout Cadette Troop 55355 is part of the Girl Scouts of Greater Chicago and Northwest Indiana Council.

To view the video or to find out how to make a donation, visit facebook. com/GirlScoutTroop5535, and for more information on joining Girl Scouts, visit GirtlScountsGCNWI.org/join.

Disability Waiver services (i.e. Community Integrated Living Arrangements, Home Based Supports, Child Group Homes) funded by the Illinois Department of Human Services/Division of Developmental Disabilities.

Please RSVP for this event by contacting our office at 630-415-3520 or email JaxWest.D46@gmail.com.

Teachers as agents of change

“Teachers as Agents of Change: Creating an Action Research Network,” School of Education faculty members Beverly Troiano, Ph.D., and Simeon Stumme, Ph.D., will

introduce the Virtual Teacher Researcher Network and moderate a discussion by alumni teachers, instructional coaches and administrators who study their own teaching and/ or support teachers through action research. A Q&A with the audience will follow the panel discussion. The Graduate Studies panel discussion begins at 7 p.m. on Thursday, April 18, in the Frick Center, Blume Board Room (190 Prospect Ave., Elmhurst, elmhurst.edu/campusmap). The lecture will also be livestreamed. Admission is free but reservations are encouraged, at elmhurst.edu/cultural. For more information, email marketing@elmhurst.edu.

Four Girl Scout Cadettes from Troop 55355 created a project, to earn a Silver Award, in which they solicited donations and purchased feminine hygiene products, wipes and other items to be given to girls and women who are clients of DuPagePads. Pictured packaging the products are (left to right) Elena, Allie, Lilly and Hannah. The supplies are scheduled to be delivered on April 22 to the DuPage Pads site on Butterfield Road in Downers Grove.

St. John’s Artist Series 16th season finale on Sunday

The St. John’s Artist Series will bring its 16th season to a close Sunday, April 21, at 3 p.m. when they present the Heritage Chorale under Artistic Director Wen Chin Liu-Young.This concert will continue the Chorale’s 40th anniversary celebration. Heritage Chorale was founded in 1984 with a clear mission: to provide an opportunity for experienced singers in the Oak Park-River Forest area to share choral masterworks with their community. Their repertoire embraces works from many periods and cultures, and in many styles. A consideration of past concerts (www. heritagechorale.com) will affirm a deserved reputation for artistic performance and variety, sure to be upheld at this Artist Series event. Baritone Douglas Anderson and Organist David Jonies will join the chorale as guest artists for this concert. For nearly two decades, the Artist Series has strived to bring a broad selection of arts experiences to the community by limiting traditional barriers of attendance such as cost and accessibility. If you haven’t been, Artist Series events are wonderful opportunities to engage in new arts experiences! This program will be held at St. John’s Lutheran Church, 215 S. Lincoln in Lombard. No tickets are required. Admission is free, though a free-will offering will be taken. For information, visit www. stjohnslombard.org or email artistseries@stjohnslombard. org.

Glenbard East Theatre Department to present ‘A Monster Calls’ this weekend

The Glenbard East High School Theatre Department will present “A Monster Calls,” based on the novel by Patrick Ness and inspired by an original idea by Siobhan Down, devised by Sally Cookson, Adam Peck, and the Company.

Glenbard East Theatre’s “A Monster Calls” production will first be performed for students from Westlake Middle School who have studied the novel in class. Then, the production is in Rider Hall at Glenbard East on April 18, 19, and 20 at 7 p.m. Tickets are $12 for adults and $10 for students and senior citizens. To purchase tickets, visit https://www. gefinearts.org/home/theatre

Under the direction of Josh Rubin, “A Monster Calls” invites you to witness a profoundly moving journey of courage, loss, and healing. Starring Jacob Velasco as Conor, a young boy grappling with his mother’s battle with cancer and the complexities of his world, this production weaves a compelling narrative where reality meets fantasy.

Conor’s nightly visits from a mysterious monster, brought to terrifying life by Jason Cisneros, Jaden Tybor, and Beatriz Zacatzi, tell stories that challenge and guide him toward truth.

In a tale that intertwines the struggles of adolescence, perseverance, and healing, “A Monster Calls” promises an unforgettable theatrical experience that will tug at your heartstrings and kindle a hopeful light within. This year’s production is also supporting Glenbard East’s Relay for Life on April 20, contact tessa.pratt@cancer.org for details

The cast includes Alyssa Cantón Ahlgrim, Jero Valencia Castrillon, Cheyanne Christian, Jason Cisnero,

Jillian Gorvett, Meridith Hoske, Annalee Kalbfleisch, Giuliana Lorenzi, Charlotte Martin, Pawel Paczesniak, Allie Pina, Lilliana Rosales, Olive Turner, Jaden Tybor, Jake Velasco, Maxx Weinsheim and Beatriz Zacatzi.

The crew includes Drew Abel, MJ Acuna, Kiera Alcantara, Emma Allen, Ari Bennett, Peyton Berrier, Victoria Bustos, Stephanie Cao, Jordan Carino, Avery Corral, Kate Eckhart, Ace Escamilla, Caleb Freaney, Gray Gannon, Ethan Hamilton, Alexis Hoey, Avery Holtz, Eli Howser, Jake Johnson, Carli Johnson, Madison Johnwick, Anya Khan, Leo Luchtman, Aeryn MacShane, Evelyn Mendez, Atlas Mika, Gianna Mitchell, Kasim Muhammad, Hassan Nugud, Jayne Ong, Estrella Pedroza, Ethan Reinholtz, Alexander Ricardo, Paulina Schwarz, Raymond Siuta, Maria Tolkin and Ivonne Vazquez.

The production staff includes:

Director: Josh Rubin

Technical director: Andy Bero

Sound design: Josh Rubin

Costume and make-up design: Micki Mari-Bunting and Kimberly Anderson

The student-production staff crew heads include:

Assistant director: Salvatore Manfre

Stage manager: Corinne Petiprin

Costumes: Sofia Pebenito and McKenna Schanks

Lighting: Lee Tessler, Leo McIntosh

Projections: Madison Johnwick

Props: Kat Theusch

Set: Christina Chiero and Tess Welninski

Publicity: Owen Voke

Sound: Elias Rose

Makeup: Rowan Chavez

Obituary

2023, at his place of residence in Diamond Springs, CA. He was a native of Villa Park, and always considered Villa Park and the surrounding suburbs as “home.” Although his didn’t live in lL in his adult life, he visited every chance he could. He attended local elementary schools, and almost graduated from Willowbrook High School.

The US Army called his name, and he enlisted in August 1962, with his good friend Art Valenzuela, another local boy. He served in Korea, then Vietnam, and made the Army a career for 23 years. During that time, he was stationed in various locations, including San Antonio TX, Fort lndian Town Gap PA, Fort Lewis WA, Colorado Springs CO and Sacramento CA. He also served 3 tours in West Germany.

In 1983 he married Peggy Ward of Diamond Springs CA and became stepfather to her children Tracy and Cathleen. He considered the girls his daughters from day one and was the best dad they could have asked for.

He taught them to drive, watched them marry and have children, and then felt old when they had grandchildren of their own. He considered the kids his grandchildren, even if there was no blood relationship.

Bob is survived by his wife, Peggy Riha, his brothers Ronald (Deborah), Donald (Debbie), his sister-in-law Karen, his nieces Marie, Corbie Jo, Kathy, and Samantha, and nephews Tim, Jim, Brian, Matthew and Mackenzie. There were also many grand nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by parents, George and Ethel Riha, and older brother George.

“Grampy” is survived by children Tracy Walker, Cathleen Walker, grandchildren Courtney Schwartz-Fossi and Mark Fossi, Bailey and Michael Durand, Darren Finegan and Ashlynn Loggins, and great grandchildren Abigail Durand, Hunter Fossi, and Waylen Durand.

Bob will always be remembered by his family.

He was a fun and funny guy, and a good man.

A graveside service and interment will be held at Chapel Hill Gardens in Oakbrook Terrace, IL, on Saturday April 27, 2024, at 11:00 a.m.

Submitted Photo Rock Valley Publishing

Organ and tissue donor registration campaign under way

Marking the beginning of National Donate Life Month, Illinois Secretary of State Alexi Giannoulias unveiled the state’s annual organ and tissue donor ad campaign, which encourages Illinoisans to sign up for the donor registry.

“More than 4,000 Illinois residents are currently waiting for a transplant, including many whose lives depend on the availability of a suitable organ,” Giannoulias said. “The month of April presents an opportunity to highlight how someone’s decision to take a moment to sign up will tangibly save lives and why it’s so important to encourage more people to register as donors.”

The campaign features a public service announcement (PSA) that urges Illinoisans to enroll in the Secretary of State’s Organ and Tissue Donor Registry by showcasing Tonisha Daniel of south suburban Dolton, who received a lifesaving liver transplant after waiting over a year.

Television and social media ads will run statewide throughout the month. The PSA features the song “The Scientist” by Coldplay.

Currently, 6.5 million Illinoisans are registered with the state’s donor registry.

Approximately 4,000 people are on the transplant waiting list. Of those individuals, about 300 die waiting for a transplant every year. A single donor can save or improve the lives of up to 25 people.

To become a donor, Illinoisans can register with the Secretary of State’s Organ and Tissue Donor Registry by visiting www.LifeGoesOn.com, calling 800-210-2106 or signing up at a DMV facility. The entire process takes less than five minutes.

Donate Life Illinois partners include Gift of Hope Organ & Tissue Donor Network, Eversight, Mid-America Transplant Services and the National Kidney Foundation of Illinois.

Giannoulias pushes to enhance protections for libraries, librarians

Bill would grant same protections as other public servants

Furthering his commitment to the Right to Read, Illinois Secretary of State Alexi Giannoulias is spearheading legislation that underscores the vital role of librarians in providing essential educational resources and ensures those individuals can go to work without fear and intimidation.

HB 4567, sponsored by State Representative Anne Stava-Murray (81st District—Downers Grove) and State Senator Laura Murphy (28th District—Des Plaines), would increase protections for libraries, librarians and library employees from threats and violence. The measure passed out of committee today and now heads to the House floor.

“Our librarians and libraries have faced an onslaught of threats of violence and ideological intimidation for simply serving their communities,” said Giannoulias, who also serves as state librarian. “We have seen an escalation of violence seeking to censor and restrict information. This is harmful, not only to these public servants, but to our democracy as a whole. In the face of these threats, this bill highlights the commitment of our state to protecting library workers, access to information and the free exchange of ideas.”

The bill would give law enforcement and State’s Attorneys the tools needed to charge a threat made against a library or a public employee in the same manner that currently exists for schools and elected officials.

The legislation comes after several libraries across the state, including the Illinois State Library Building, experienced bomb and other violent threats.

Between July and September of 2023, at least 22 known bomb threats were received that required local and state police response. Several libraries endured repeat threats.

“Throughout the state and the na-

Love ya to pieces

This happy quilter beams a big smile over a big red and white star patterned quilt at the Fischer Farm “All Around the House” Quilt Show that took place over the weekend of April 6-7. Several hundred people came out to explore the world of quilting, have quilts appraised and purchase quilts and materials.

tion, library professionals continue to face threats to their personal safety and welfare,” said Cynthia Robinson, executive director for the Illinois Library Association (ILA). “The ILA strongly condemns all forms of violence, threats of violence, and other acts of intimidation in Illinois libraries.”

Other states including Colorado, California, Iowa, Tennessee, Utah, Texas and Hawaii have faced similar threats to their libraries and staff.

“This legislation will ensure our library workers have the same protections against threats and harassment as other public officials and human service providers,” Stava-Murray said. “Protecting the Right to Read in Illinois also means protecting the people who make it possible.”

Each threat requires local law enforcement to spend time and resources investigating and ensuring the public’s safety. The proposed measure would require the offender to reimburse first responders for the cost associated with the threat response.

“Our librarians and libraries provide for the most fundamental exchange of ideas and knowledge, and we will not let them be intimidated from doing so,” said Murphy. “This measure protects them and the treasure of our libraries while also ensuring our law enforcement’s time and taxpayer money are not being wasted.”

The measure would also allow law enforcement to take action against threats made by electronic communications and social media.

The proposal does not create new penalties but guarantees libraries and librarians are protected by law in the same manner as schools and other facilities serving vulnerable populations, such as children and older adults.

Pritzker names new head of state insurance oversight agency

By Peter Hancock CAPITOL NEWS ILLINOIS

Gov. JB Pritzker recently announced a change in leadership at the agency in charge of regulating the state’s insurance industry.

State Sen. Ann Gillespie, D-Arlington Heights, will take over as acting director of the Illinois Department of Insurance starting April 15, replacing Dana Popish Severinghaus, who has held the job since 2021.

“Dana has served the state of Illinois admirably, helping protect consumers against predatory insurance practices and reforming the system to work for the people of Illinois,” Pritzker said in a statement.

“She was a champion for Illinoisans who otherwise would have struggled to navigate vast, complex insurance systems, and I’m grateful to her for service.”

The announcement came in the middle of a legislative session in which Pritzker is proposing sweeping changes in state regulation of the health insurance industry. His proposed Health Care Protection Act calls for giving the department authority to approve or reject rate increases in the large-group insurance market.

It also calls for banning “step therapy” in prescription drug coverage as well as banning prior authorization requirements for in-patient mental health treatment.

Speaking at an unrelated news conference, Pritzker said there was no connection between his legislative proposal and the department’s upcoming change in leadership. But he offered no additional details about what

prompted the change.

“It was just that as you move along in an administration, people have spent a number of years in the positions that I’ve appointed them to, and it can be time for a change,” he said. “And a good time, by the way, is leaving people an opportunity to have a few years at least until the end of this term, not knowing what the next term would look like or who’s running for governor, who the next governor might be, whether it’s me or somebody else.”

Gillespie has served in the General Assembly since 2019, representing a portion of Chicago’ northwest suburbs. She serves on the Senate Insurance Committee and last year sponsored legislation to establish a state-based health insurance marketplace. Outside the legislature, she has worked as a health care attorney and consultant in the health care industry.

“It’s an honor to be asked to serve the state of Illinois in this new capacity, and I am eager to begin working with the Department of Insurance to make sure the system works for Illinois consumers,” she said in a statement. “My experience in the healthcare field underlies decades of advocacy and public service, and I’m thankful for the opportunity to continue that work.”

The announcement of a new director also came just as lawmakers received a new report showing the state facing a 16.5 percent increase, or $533 million, in state employee health insurance costs – the largest single-year increase in several years and one that analysts said is due in part to new cov-

erage mandates that lawmakers have enacted in recent years.

The report did not provide details of the specific coverage mandates driving the cost increases, but it mentioned “medications not otherwise guaranteed to be covered, such as certain weight-loss medications” as being among the factors.

The report was delivered to a meeting of the Commission on Government Forecasting and Accountability, a legislative body that, among other things, monitors the state’s financial condition throughout the year and conducts oversight over its insurance programs for state employees.

Sen. Dave Syverson, R-Cherry Valley, argued that the report shows Illinois has gone too far in mandating various kinds of coverage, and he warned against adopting any new mandates like those Pritzker has called for in his Health Care Protection Act proposal.

“We’re making health insurance so good in Illinois that no one can afford it,” he said in an interview after the meeting.

But Sen. David Koehler, D-Peoria, who chairs COGFA, said in a separate interview that he supports the mandates Illinois has imposed.

“State mandates are usually done for a reason,” he said. “Those issues come before the legislature because … we’re hearing a lot of issues in our communities about why those things need to change.”

Both Syverson and Koehler said they were surprised by the change in leadership at the Department of Insurance, but both said they support Gillespie’s appointment to the job.

SUBMITTED PHOTO Rock Valley Publishing

Illinois Senate advances changes to state’s biometric privacy law after business groups split Biometric Information Privacy Act subject of hundreds of lawsuits, several high-profile settlements

By Hannah Meisel CAPITOL NEWS ILLINOIS

It’s been more than a year since the Illinois Supreme Court “respectfully suggest(ed)” state lawmakers clarify a law that’s led to several multi-million-dollar settlements with tech companies over the collection of Illinoisans’ biometric data.

Last week, a bipartisan majority in the Illinois Senate did just that, approving the first major change to Illinois’ Biometric Information Privacy Act since it was originally passed in 2008.

“(The state Supreme Court) invited the General Assembly to address this,” state Sen. Bill Cunningham, D-Chicago, said April 11 of a high court decision last February that found fast food chain White Castle violated BIPA each time its employees used their fingerprints in the course of performing their jobs.

In that case, White Castle estimated it would be on the hook for up to $17 billion in penalties as the law provides for $1,000 in damages for “negligent” violations or $5,000 for “reckless” or “intentional” violations.

Though the court made clear it wasn’t ruling on the question of how damages stack up, it did “respectfully suggest” the General Assembly review BIPA “and make clear its intent regarding the assessment of damages under the Act.”

“This bill is a response to that invitation,” Cunningham said before passage of Senate Bill 2979.

The legislation, which passed 46-13, would change BIPA’s violation accrual so that each initial collection of a fingerprint or other biometric data would amount to one violation, rather than a violation occurring for each individual scan. Employees might scan their fingerprints dozens of times per shift if they’re unlocking doors or cabinets with those scans.

Illinois is the only state that grants residents the right to sue over businesses’ improper collection and mishandling of biometric data—whether they are an employee or a customer.

A business can violate BIPA by not getting written consent from customers or employees for the data being collected, not having a storage policy in place or not properly protecting the data.

Business groups have been clamoring for changes to BIPA in recent years as upwards of 2,000 lawsuits have been filed under the law since roughly 2018, resulting in a few high-profile settlements—including a $650 million class-action payout from Facebook in 2020.

The social media giant paid more than 1 million Illinoisans roughly

$400 each.

But it was a pair of decisions from the state Supreme Court last year that galvanized business groups’ efforts to push for changes to the law.

First, the court unanimously ruled that BIPA had a five-year statute of limitations—not the one-year limit sought by business groups. A few weeks later in the White Castle case, the court ruled 4-3 that each time a company improperly collected biometric data markers amounts to a separate violation of the law.

When BIPA became law more than 15 years ago, it was a novel concept meant to guard against technologies that, at the time, were still mostly the stuff of science fiction.

But as more and more companies began using technology like fingerprint and facial scans to identify customers and workers, it’s also led to what opponents of the law have called a cottage industry for ambitious attorneys.

Business groups have been divided on Cunningham’s proposal, with some offering full-throated support after the bill’s passage on Thursday and others pointing to continued opposition.

Senate Minority Leader John Curran, R-Downers Grove, noted the split before he ultimately voted for the bill, but said he sided with the industry groups that support it.

“I think they see it the way I see it,” Curran said.

“While I wish there was more in this...to do nothing leaves Illinois businesses subject to really annihilistic judgments.”

After SB 2979 passed through a Senate committee last month, a coalition of influential industry groups said it didn’t go far enough, especially because it wasn’t retroactive and wouldn’t help companies that have already been sued under BIPA.

Additionally, in recent weeks, advocates for Illinois’ burgeoning data center industry have registered concern that Cunningham’s bill doesn’t specifically shield data centers from liability for storing biometric information on behalf of companies who may have violated BIPA.

After the bill’s passage April 11, Cunningham, a high-ranking member of the Senate, didn’t close the door on a future amendment to address concerns from the data center industry.

“It’s a bicameral legislature, so we’ll see what happens in the House” he said.

“But I think what we see here – the guts of this bill are going to stay in place and will, I think, be signed by the governor sometime this spring or summer.”

St. Timothy Evangelical Lutheran Church

547 N. Main St., Lombard, IL 60148 630-627-2435

Lent and Easter Services at 7 p.m.

Sunday Worship at 10:15 am

“The Crucial Hours”

Sunday School & Bible Study 9 am

Second Lenten Service

Wednesday Service at 7pm

March 9, 2022

Ladies Bible Fellowship Mondays at 6:30 pm

Rev. David Ernest “Satan Has Asked to Sift All of You” Jerusalem Lutheran, Morton Grove Matthew 27:15-26

Saturday, April 27 Game Night at 4 pm

Third Lenten Service

Everyone is Welcome!

March 16, 2022

Rev. Paul Spaude “What to Remember When Your are St. Matthews, Niles Seized with Remorse” Matthew 27:3-4

All services are live streamed. Watch on our website or on Facebook. sainttimothy.org 453344

Fourth Lenten Service

March 23, 2022

Rev. Jonathan Bergemann “I Will Keep the Passover”

Good Shepherd, Downers Grove Matthew 26:18

Fifth Lenten Service

March 30, 2022

Rev. Tom Nicholson “They Bound Him”

Resurrection, Aurora John 18:12

Sixth Lenten Service

April 6, 2022

Rev. Phil Schupmann “The Semblance of Legality”

Resurrection, Aurora Luke 22:66

Maundy Thursday Communion 7 p.m., April 14

Good Friday Tenebrae 7 p.m., April 15

Easter Sunrise 6:30 a.m., April 17

Sunday Worship at 9:45 AM

Easter Breakfast

Come worship with us!

8 a.m., April 17

Easter Festival 10:15 a.m., April 17

300 East Belden Avenue, Elmhurst, IL 60126 www.ODMFellowship.Org 452638

Weekend Masses:

Saturday: 4 PM (Vigil)

Sunday: 7:30, 9:30 & 11:30 AM and 6 PM

Daily Masses:

Monday—Friday: 6:15 and 8:15 AM

Saturday: 8:15 AM

Visitation Catholic Church

779 S. York Street

Elmhurst, IL

630 834 6700

www.visitationparish.org

Confessions:

Saturday: 3�3:45PM

Sunday: 5�5:45 PM

Adoration:

Available in Our Lady Mother of the Eucharist Chapel 24/7

Stations of the Cross: Fridays during Lent at 7 PM

Regulators weigh future of gas industry in Illinois, while clamping down on Chicago utility

Illinois Commerce Commission sparked controversy among unions

By Andrew Adams

NEWS ILLINOIS

Natural gas is fueling a fight between consumer advocates, a powerful utility company and the state. Amid competing advertising cam-

paigns, accusations of mismanagement and state decarbonization efforts, the Illinois Commerce Commission is starting a process that will shape how the state regulates the increasingly controversial industry.

While Chicago considers passing an ordinance to ban natural gas in some new building construction— following the lead of places like New York City and Seattle—state officials are moving more slowly in an at-

tempt to ensure Illinois meets its goal of having 100 percent renewable energy by 2050.

The ICC launched a process dubbed the “Future of Gas” last week that will inform the governor, legislature and other policymakers on potential policy changes. The process was initiated by the ICC after they tamped down requests for rate increases from all of the state’s major gas utilities.

“We need to get this right,” ICC Chair Doug Scott said at a virtual workshop with over 350 advocates and industry officials held recently. “We get one really good shot at this.”

He added the process “is not designed to meet a pre-ordained conclusion.”

Rob Kelter, senior attorney at the Environmental Law and Policy Center, praised the new approach to regulation and Scott’s personal attention to the proceeding while welcoming the fact that these discussions are happening outside of a traditional rate case, where utilities have more say in setting the agenda.

“Everybody pays gas and electric bills and also everyone is affected by the current gas and electric systems,” Kelter said.

Both electric and gas companies are involved with the “Future of Gas” proceeding, which is expected to last until summer 2025, although the precise timeline and the scope of what will be discussed are still tentative.

“What I hope will result from this is a lot of good, productive discus-

sion that objectively analyzes the state’s options for reducing carbon emissions,” Kelter said.

A spokesperson for Peoples Gas, Chicago’s natural gas utility, echoed that sentiment and added the state’s gas distribution system will play a major part in reaching the state’s climate goals.

“Natural gas, along with emerging technologies such as Renewable Natural Gas and Hydrogen, will be critical to meeting Chicagoans’ need for reliable, affordable, decarbonized energy,” Peoples Gas’ David Schwartz told Capitol News Illinois in a statement.

Schwartz pointed to technological developments in capturing natural gas from waste products like food, using new gas-powered appliances for heating buildings and the ongoing replacement of pipes as steps that would reduce or even eliminate the gas system’s carbon footprint.

But Kelter said he is skeptical of the claims made by boosters of the new technology—a position shared by other environmental and consumer advocates.

“The state has climate goals that require us to change how we heat and cool our homes,” he said. “We’ve got to move toward a system that’s reliant on renewable energy.”

Peoples Gas faces scrutiny

While the ICC weighs the future of the gas system generally, it’s also investigating the current state of See REGULATORS, Page 11

State allocates additional $14 million for grocery startups

can now apply for funding allocated in last year’s $20 million Illinois Grocery Initiative aimed at preventing and eliminating food deserts in Illinois.

The Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity, which is administering the grants, is currently accepting applications in the second round of funding, which will provide a combined $14 million to grocery stores looking to open in Illinois food deserts.

The agency is also reviewing applications for the first round of programming rolled out earlier this year that could partially fund a total of $3.5 million of equipment upgrades at select stores across the state.

Using data from the U.S. Department of Agriculture, the Illinois Department of Public Health estimates that more than 3 million Illinoisans are unable to access good food because they might not have enough money, time or reliable transportation to go shopping. Research published by the National Academy of Sciences found that living in food deserts can lead to poor health outcomes.

At the launch, which was hosted in the aisles of a soon-to-be community co-op grocery store in Chicago’s Uptown neighborhood, local Ald. Angela Clay (46) said that as a mom, she understands how important it is to have “healthy food on the dinner table, and at breakfast time or at snack time.”

“And there are a lot of families where their reality is they are eating

• Regulators

out of a liquor store, they are eating out of a gas station,” said Clay. “And we understand that the long-term effects that that has on a family or as a child can be detrimental.”

Gov. JB Pritzker proposed an additional $10 million in funding for the initiative in next year’s budget. A bill sponsored by Sen. Doris Turner, D-Springfield, could expand the initiative to include farmer-owned grocery stores as well.

For more information about the grants and application process, interested parties can visit the Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity website.

Cancer screening

Illinoisans could have increased access to genetic cancer screening if the General Assembly approves a measure that would require insurance coverage for the tests.

Currently, state law requires insurance to cover genetic testing for breast and ovarian cancers, along with annual screenings for prostate, pancreatic, colon, and skin cancers for those who have a family history of cancer or have a recommendation from their doctor.

Under Senate Bill 2697, insurance would cover prevention and susceptibility screening—including genetic testing—for all types of cancer for those with a family history, the bill’s sponsor, Sen. Julie Morrison, D-Deerfield, said at a news conference. She said Illinoisans with private insurance would pay $50 or less for genetic screening, and it would

(Continued from page 10)

Peoples Gas. The company’s controversial “safety modernization program,” designed to replace Chicago’s aging pipe infrastructure, was put on notice in November, when the ICC paused any spending related to the program and began an investigation into it.

That investigation began in earnest last week, with Peoples Gas filing its first testimony in the case. The company was also granted a rehearing on the decision to pause spending after it claimed some work was still necessary.

The investigation is expected to last until January 2025, while the rehearing will last until late May or early June 2024.

Consumer advocates have praised the decision to shorten the leash on Peoples Gas’ pipe replacement program, while also recognizing the need to replace Chicago’s natural gas pipes—some of which are more than 100 years old.

But Abe Scarr, the head of the consumer advocacy group Illinois PIRG, said the program’s costs have grown, in part, due to Peoples Gas conducting other work under the guise of replacing old pipes or “emergency” repairs.

“I think it’s pretty clear Peoples Gas hasn’t really kept to the scope of that work,” Scarr said.

Schwartz, of Peoples Gas, said the company provided options to the ICC for reducing the scope of the work or more narrowly targeting the program when the company can begin work again.

“We will continue to seek authorization to move forward with the needed work,” Schwartz said. “Modernization of Chicago’s underground energy delivery system is crucial for the safety, reliability, affordability and environmental sustainability of Chicago’s heating system.”

“ one of the things that i tell my patients is that we already know the cure for cancer, and that cure is to not get cancer in the first place. and cost should not be the reason why people can’t access the lifesaving care that they need.”

– Vivan Pan, senior genetic counselor at the University of Illinois Cancer Center

be free for those on Medicaid.

“One of the things that I tell my patients is that we already know the cure for cancer, and that cure is to not get cancer in the first place,” Vivan Pan, senior genetic counselor at the University of Illinois Cancer Center said. “And cost should not be the reason why people can’t access the lifesaving care that they need.”

Pan said in her experience, roughly 10-15 percent of blood and saliva samples find mutations, which “may indicate an increased risk for disease like cancer.” With those results, Pan said, patients can work with their medical provider to develop person-

Fallout from ICC decisions

Since the ICC’s bombshell rulings in November limiting several utilities’ rate requests and investigating Peoples Gas, one labor union launched a pressure campaign on the commission and the governor urging them to walk back some of the decisions.

The International Union of Operating Engineers Local 150, which represents about 23,000 members in Illinois and neighboring states, launched a series of advertisements claiming that the decisions were a “natural gas ban” and urged prioritizing pipeline safety in the transition to a cleaner energy system.

“I don’t think any of us have seen enough facts in front of us to say that the natural gas system will be obsolete,” Local 150 spokesperson Kristine Kavanagh told Capitol News Illinois.

Because of the decision to pause Peoples Gas’ infrastructure spending, Kavanagh said about 200 members of her organization lost their jobs in addition to hundreds more in other unions.

While the union endorsed Pritzker in his most recent general election in 2022, his campaign organization launched a series of response ads pushing back on the union’s claims.

“At a time when too many working families are struggling to pay their heating bills, the governor knows that putting their bottom line ahead of that of a record-profit-earning utility is the right thing to do,” Pritzker campaign spokesperson Christina Amestoy said in a written statement.

The back-and-forth ads between the union and the Pritzker campaign illustrate a potentially growing fight between the governor and one of the Democratic Party’s core bases of support.

alized plans for screening, prevention, and management.

The proposal unanimously passed committee in last month but Morrison has filed a technical amendment before the bill gets a final vote in the Senate.

Komatsu mining truck named 2024 ‘coolest thing made in Illinois’

A mining truck manufactured by Komatsu was crowned the winner of the 2024 “Makers Madness” contest, earning the title of “the coolest thing made in Illinois” at the Governor’s Mansion last week.

The truck was one of more than 200 entries in the fifth annual contest hosted by the Illinois Manufacturers’ Association and sponsored by Comcast Business. The bracket-style contest lasted eight weeks and collected almost 315,000 votes for the products entered, narrowing them down to the top 16, then to the final four, which were recognized Wednesday.

The truck, made by Komatsu in Peoria, has a hauling capacity of up to 400 tons and has “new innovations in suspension transmission, electric drive technology and autonomous operation,” according to Komatsu. The 980E-5 truck weighs more than 1.3 million pounds.

Dan Funcannon, a vice president at Komatsu, said the trucks are the “coolest machines on the planet.”

“These machines are manufactured in Peoria and shipped around the world to support mining the minerals and materials that are required

to do this manufacturing around the globe,” he said at the ceremony. “We feel it’s a big honor and also responsibility to sell these products throughout the world.”

Gov. J.B. Pritzker congratulated the finalists and said manufacturing is key to the state’s economy.

“This room is full of talented and driven people who continue to propel our state toward a brighter future,” he said. “Our economic growth is due in large part to the thriving manufacturing sector that you all help to build every day.”

Three other finalists were also recognized at the ceremony, covering a wide range of products. Mullen’s Imitation French Dressing, made by J.D. Mullen Company in Palestine, was founded by World War I veteran and Illinois restaurateur John Mullen. The MQ-25 Stingray Drone Refueler, built by Boeing in Mascoutah, is the first unmanned aircraft to refuel another aircraft midflight. Enviro Buildings’ Mod Box, made by Craig Industries in Quincy, is a modular insulated outdoor building used for construction and security offices.

According to the Illinois Manufacturers’ Association, the industry is responsible for almost a third of the state’s jobs and contributes more than $580 billion to the economy annually.

The Rosenberg moon habitat, made by Ingersoll Machine Tools in Rockford, was the 2023 winner. Another mining vehicle, the 797F mining truck by Caterpillar, was named the winner in 2020.

Rams edge Glenbard South in a nine-inning battle

Carver goes 3-for-3 with a homer and scores the winning run on Amrhein’s infield hit; Bolda records 15 strikeouts against the Raiders

The Glenbard East softball team earned an exciting 6-5 nine-inning win over Glenbard South in last week’s Upstate Eight Conference game in Lombard.

The Rams and Raiders were tied at 5-5 through four innings of the April 11 contest. The two teams then played four tense scoreless innings. As the light faded, the game continued to the ninth inning. Glenbard East held the Raiders scoreless in the top of the ninth inning. The Rams claimed the victory by scoring a run with two outs in the bottom of the ninth inning. If Glenbard East hadn’t scored in that inning, darkness would have forced the two teams to continue the game at a later date.

Glenbard East freshman Lilly Carver went 3-for-3 with three runs scored and two runs batted in during last week’s win over the Raiders. Carver singled to lead off the bottom of the first inning. She stole second base and eventually scored on a single by junior Melissa Saldana.

Carver, who singled in the bottom of the second inning, launched a tworun home run over the left field fence in the bottom of the fourth inning to tie the score at 5-5.

The Raiders intentionally walked Carver in the sixth inning. Carver walked to lead off the bottom of the ninth inning. She advanced to second base on a wild pitch. With two outs, freshman Ally Amrhein delivered an infield hit. Carver rounded third and headed home on Amrhein’s hit. She slid into home plate and was called safe on a close play. The Rams then surrounded Carver to celebrate their thrilling win.

Freshman Claire Bolda pitched a complete game for the Rams in their extra-inning victory over the Raiders.

She allowed eight hits, two earned runs and two walks. Bolda piled up 15 strikeouts in the game.

Senior Sophia Opila went 2-for-5

Chris

Glenbard East’s softball team defeated Glenbard South 6-5 in last week’s nine-inning Upstate Eight Conference game in Lombard. Freshman Claire Bolda (No. 14 - bottom left) pitched all nine innings for the Rams in their April 11 win over the Raiders. She recorded 15 strikeouts in nine innings in the circle. Freshman shortstop Lilly Carver, who’s pictured (top left) while making a throw to first base, went 3-for3 with a home run in the contest. Carver scored the winning run in the bottom of the ninth inning after freshman Ally Amrhein of the Rams reached base on a two-out infield hit. Carver scored from second base on Amrhein’s hit. The Rams are pictured (above) while celebrating after Carver slid safely into home plate to score the winning run. Glenbard East improved its conference record to 2-1 with its win over the Raiders. The Rams moved their overall season record to 6-3 following Saturday’s 6-1 non-conference win at Batavia. Bolda struck out 13 batters during Saturday’s victory.

and scored one run for the Rams in last week’s win over the Raiders. Saldana went 1-for-4 with two runs batted in.

Amrhein went 2-for-4 with two RBIs. Freshman Althea Fitzgerald went 2-for-3 and scored one run.

Glenbard East began last week’s schedule by losing its Upstate Eight Conference opener at South Elgin on April 9. The Storm defeated the Rams

Rams post three straight conference victories

After earning a pair of wins over Fenton, Glenbard East ends its week with a lop-sided win at Glenbard South

The Glenbard East baseball team completed a busy week of Upstate Eight Conference play with Saturday’s 15-0 victory over Glenbard South in a conference game in Glen Ellyn.

The Rams improved their overall season record to 7-7-1 with Saturday’s four-inning win over the Raiders. Glenbard East raised its conference record to 3-2 with its dominant victory. After opening their conference season with two straight losses last week, the Rams reeled off three straight wins.

Glenbard East began last week’s action with a 5-4 conference loss at Bartlett on April 8. One day later, the Rams suffered an 8-7 conference loss to Glenbard South in Lombard.

Glenbard East swept both games of its conference series against Fenton last week. The Rams beat the

Bison 11-4 on April 10 in Lombard. Glenbard East defeated Fenton 13-3 on Friday in Bensenville. The Rams scored nine runs in the top of the first inning of Saturday’s contest at Glenbard South. Glenbard East tacked on six more runs in the top of the fourth inning.

Junior Connor Peckham went 2-for-2 and scored two runs for the Rams in Saturday’s win. Junior Horacio Solis went 1-for-3 with three runs batted in. Senior Grant Bruen went 2-for-3 with one run batted in. Senior Chris Ludwig also went 2-for3 with an RBI. Junior Aiden Towey went 1-for-2 with two RBIs.

Glenbard East senior Brett Vercruysse went 1-for-3 with an RBI on Saturday. Junior Ryan Frano also went 1-for-3 with an RBI. Junior Devin Kraft went 1-for-2 with an RBI. Junior Paulie Steiskal went

1-for-1 with one run batted in.

Ludwig pitched a four-inning complete game to earn the win on Saturday. The left-handed throwing Ludwig allowed four hits and two walks in his shutout performance. He struck out four batters.

Solis went 3-for-3 with two RBIs in Friday’s 13-3 win over Fenton. Vercruysse went 2-for-2 with an RBI and scored three runs. Steiskal went 1-for-2 with three RBIs.

Glenbard East senior Patrick Olson recorded 12 strikeouts in Friday’s win over the Bison. Olson gave up three runs, three hits and three walks over six innings in his winning performance on the mound.

The Rams’ schedule this week includes a two-game conference series against Elgin, along with conference games against Bartlett and Streamwood.

8-0. One day later, Glenbard East crushed Streamwood 17-0 in a conference contest in Streamwood. The Rams improved to 2-1 in conference play with their nine-inning triumph over Glenbard South.

The Rams raised their overall season record to 6-3 with Saturday’s 6-1 non-conference win at Batavia. Carver, Opila, Amrhein and Bolda connected

for two hits each in Saturday’s victory. Bolda pitched a complete game in the circle and recorded 13 strikeouts over seven innings. She allowed four hits and one walk and didn’t give up any earned runs.

Glenbard East’s schedule this week includes conference games against Fenton, West Chicago, Bartlett and East Aurora.

Fox photos Rock Valley Publishing

Chris Fox photos Rock Valley Publishing

Senior Chris Ludwig (pictured above left) delivered a shutout performance on the mound for the Rams. Ludwig allowed four hits and two walks. He recorded four strikeouts. Another photo (above right) from Saturday’s game shows senior Brett Vercruysse, who went 1-for-3 with two runs scored and one run batted in.

Broncos vs. Vikings

Under the lights…

Willowbrook’s softball team faced Glenbard South in Friday evening’s game in the Warriors’ stadium in Villa Park. Willowbrook defeated the visiting Raiders 9-5 in the contest, which was played under the lights on the north side of the stadium field. The pitcher’s mound was located near the field’s 10-yard line, while home plate was along the northeast goal line. The setup featured a temporary outfield fence. Spectators watched the game from the stadium bleachers.

The Montini Catholic softball team faced Saint Laurence in last week’s game in Lombard. The visiting Vikings beat the Broncos 3-0 in the April 9 battle. Saint Laurence scored all three of its runs in the top of the third inning. Freshman Cedona Barrett (pictured above) pitched a complete game for the Broncos. Barrett allowed nine hits and two earned runs over seven innings. She issued two walks and recorded four strikeouts. At the plate, Barrett went 2-for-3 to account for two of her team’s three hits. Another photo (below) shows Montini freshman catcher Aubry Raffen. One day after losing to Saint Laurence, the Broncos suffered a 6-5 loss at Resurrection. Montini played three games in Saturday’s event at Woodstock North High School. The Broncos won one of those games. Their overall season record stood at 6-11 following Saturday’s play.

An up and down week for Montini

Montini Catholic’s baseball team won two of four games last week. The Broncos began the week with a 15-0 victory at Saint Ignatius on April 8. One day later, Montini dropped a 2-1 decision to Saint Rita in Lombard. The Broncos broke a scoreless tie when they scored a run in the bottom of the sixth inning. Saint Rita then took the lead with a two-run home run in the top of the seventh inning. Montini senior Dominic Catalano (pictured) went 2-for-4 and scored his team’s only run of the game. He scored on a bunt by senior Anthony Manganello. Senior Anthony Dinkel pitched the first four innings of the game for the Broncos. He didn’t allow any hits. Dinkel recorded four strikeouts and walked two batters. Senior Cash Campbell pitched two scoreless innings and struck out five batters while giving up two hits and not issuing any walks. Montini’s week continued with a 13-0 loss at Saint Laurence on April 11, followed by an 8-0 home win over Aurora Central Catholic on Saturday. The Broncos’ overall season record stood at 8-5-1 following Saturday’s victory.

Senior Owen Riesen (No. 23) fires a pitch for the Warriors. Riesen pitched three and twothird scoreless innings in relief in the game. He allowed two hits and one walk while recording four strikeouts.

One photo from Friday’s action shows Willowbrook senior Karman Rowe (No. 21 - top left) firing a pitch. Another photo shows senior Lindsey Rugg (No. 40 - left), who blasted a two-run home run in the bottom of the second inning. Rugg’s homer to left-center field broke a 2-2 tie and gave the Warriors a 4-2 lead. One more photo (above) shows Willowbrook junior Isabel Bates sliding safely into home plate on a sacrifice fly by Rugg in the bottom of the fifth inning. Bates, who hit a two-run double earlier in the fifth inning, went 1-for-2 and drove in two runs in Friday’s game. She also scored two runs. Rugg went 1-for-1 with three runs batted in during Friday’s victory. Freshman Aleena McNamara went 1-for-2 with two runs batted in. Rowe allowed four hits, five walks and two earned runs in seven innings in the circle. She recorded eight strikeouts in her winning performance against Glenbard South. Willowbrook returned to its home field for Saturday morning’s battle against Argo. The Warriors beat Argo 7-5 to raise their overall season record to 7-4. Willowbrook began its West Suburban Gold Conference season with this week’s games against Morton, Leyden and Addison Trail. The Warriors will play a non-conference doubleheader at Naperville Central this Saturday.

Warriors in action

Willowbrook’s baseball team faced Hinsdale South in last week’s West Suburban Gold Conference game in Villa Park. The visiting Hornets edged the Warriors 5-4 in the April 10 contest. One photo shows Willowbrook senior Aiden Baerenklau (No. 22 - above right) preparing to slide safely into home plate to give his team a 2-1 lead in the bottom of the third inning. Baerenklau advanced to third base on a fly ball by junior Vincent Ippolito. When the throw went past Hinsdale South’s third baseman, Baerenklau raced down the third-base line and scored. Another photo (above left) from the game shows Willowbrook sophomore Alek Ramey preparing to touch home plate after bashing a two-run home run in the bottom of the sixth inning to cut Hinsdale South’s lead to 5-4. Willowbrook’s conference record dropped to 1-3 with the April 10 loss to the Hornets. Willowbrook’s conference record fell to 1-4 after its 4-2 loss to Downers Grove South on April 11. The Mustangs completed a three-game series sweep of Willowbrook with that victory. The Warriors raised their overall season record to 7-5-2 with an 8-1 non-conference win at Hinsdale Central on Friday. Willowbrook’s schedule this week includes a three-game conference series against Addison Trail.

Chris Fox photos Rock Valley Publishing

Chris Fox photo Rock Valley Publishing

Chris Fox photos Rock Valley Publishing

Chris Fox photos Rock Valley Publishing

FAX # 630-691-8831

1180 E. Roosevelt Rd. 1/2 mile east of I-355

Glen Ellyn

Enjoy Cantonese & Mandarin Cuisine at Reasonable Prices

Cocktails - Tropical Drinks

• Major Credit Cards Accepted

• Gift Certificates Available

GOLDEN WOK FAMILY STYLE DINNER FOR 2 ONLY $15.95 with this ad

Includes: Egg Drop Soup, Egg Rolls, Chicken Almond Ding, Egg Foo Young, Fried Rice, Cookies

Annual Many Faces of Lombard & Villa Park

Pritzker appoints first-ever Prisoner Review Board director; Chicago advances migrant funding

Weeks after two high-profile resignations at the Illinois Prisoner Review Board, Gov. JB Pritzker on Monday appointed the first-ever executive director to help lead the beleaguered agency.

To fill the newly created position, the governor tapped Jim Montgomery, who most recently served as director of administrative services with the Suffolk County Sheriff’s Department in Massachusetts. His prior experience includes several stints as an assistant to Illinois lawmakers in the 1990s, and eight years as mayor of Taylorville from 1997 until 2005.

Montgomery will be responsible for overseeing administrative board operations, including bolstering domestic violence prevention training and “other important equity-based trainings for board members,” ac-

cording to the governor’s office. In a news release, the governor said the creation of the director position “reduces the workload placed on the PRB chair and allows for the chair to focus more closely on leading casework.”

The board currently has no chair, as the office’s previous holder, Donald Shelton, resigned on March 25 along with board member LeAnn Miller.

In February, Miller led a hearing to determine whether an inmate, Crosetti Brand, should be released from Stateville Correctional Center amid allegations that he’d violated an order of protection against his ex-girlfriend, Laterria Smith, by threatening her. The board found insufficient evidence and he was released on March 12.

on Monday.

The motion could go to a full city council vote as soon as this week, and it has the potential to close a gap in migrant aid funding and fulfill the city’s commitment to an agreement with the state and Cook County.

The proposal comes two months after Cook County officials and the governor’s office committed about $250 million toward aid for recently arrived migrants. The leaders at the time said another $70 million was still needed.

Last week, U.S. Sen. Dick Durbin, D-Illinois, announced the state would receive about $19.3 million in migrant response funding from a new $300 million federal spending plan

For more than three decades, local businesses have used this popular photo section to acquaint thousands of readers in Lombard and Villa Park with their businesses. To be included in this popular business promotion or for more information, call or email. We will then contact you to set up a photo appointment and pick up the copy for your cutline

Don’t miss out on this great advertising special because you waited too long to call! Space is limited and each year we turn away businesses due to space limitations. Call 630-834-8244 or e-mail bjesensky@rvpublishing.com. The reservation deadline is May 2 “Faces” will be published on Thursday, May 30.

NOTE: Remember, it is very important to have your cutline information available when your photo is taken. Also, remember this is a photo section, so please keep your cutline information brief to allow adequate space for your photo. Cutlines may be faxed to 630-834-0900 or e-mailed to: bjesensky@rvpublishing.com

One day later, Brand attacked Smith, stabbing her and killing her 11-year-old son Jayden Perkins when he tried to intervene.

Pritzker appointed Miller to the Prisoner Review Board in September 2021 and her term wasn’t due to expire until January 2027

Migrant response funding

The Chicago’s City Council’s budget committee advanced Mayor Brandon Johnson’s request for $70 million from city reserves to care for new migrant arrivals in a 20-8 vote

Council members who voted for and against the city’s motion called the nearly $20 million in federal aid “wholly inadequate.”

Alderman Daniel La Spata, of Chicago’s 1 st Ward, pointed to how federal officials were quick to start programs for Ukrainian and Afghan asylum seekers but not to the same degree for those arriving to the U.S. from Latin American countries.

“We’ve seen still harsh contrast to how we treated the 30,000 plus Ukrainians who arrived similarly with asylum seeker status, who were able to incorporate themselves into Chicago and Illinois,” La Spata said.

PUZZLE Page

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!

CERTIFICATE NO. 79394 was filed in the office of the County Clerk of DuPage County on MARCH 29, 2024 wherein the business firm of LINDSEY’S LOVIES, 535 N. IOWA AVENUE, VILLA PARK, IL 60181was 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: Lindsey Graham, 535 N. Iowa Avenue, Villa Park, IL 60181.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand and Official Seal at my office in Wheaton, Illinois, this 29TH day of MARCH, A.D. 2024.

Jean Kaczmarek DuPage County Clerk (Published in the Addison Independent, Bensenville Independent & Villa Park Review April 11, 18 & 25, 2024) 453714

NOTICE

CERTIFICATE NO. 79401 was filed in the office of the County Clerk of DuPage County on APRIL 3, 2024 wherein the business firm of BRIDGE2FINANCE, 1130 N FISCHER DRIVE, 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:

Elijah Aquino, 1130 N. Fischer Drive, Addison, IL 60101.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand and Official Seal at my office in Wheaton, Illinois, this 3RD day of APRIL, A.D. 2024.

Jean Kaczmarek DuPage County Clerk (Published in the Addison Independent, Bensenville Independent & Villa Park Review April 11, 18 & 25, 2024) 453775

NOTICE TO BIDDERS

The Village will receive sealed proposals for the following improvements at the Bensenville Village Hall, 12 S. Center Street, Bensenville, IL 60106 until 11:00 A.M. on May 7, 2024.

VILLAGE OF BENSENVILLE, IL SESAME STREET RECONSTRUCTION

Proposals will be publicly read aloud at 11:00 A.M. on May 7, 2024. No bid shall be withdrawn after the opening of the proposals without the consent of the Village for a period of sixty days after the scheduled time of closing bids.

This project generally consists of the reconstruction of Sesame Street from County Line Road to the east end with new Port-

land cement concrete pavement and the installation of a new 12-inch water main. The project also includes sidewalk installation, driveway removal and replacement, storm sewer improvements, cured-in-place pipe (CIPP) lining, landscape restoration and all related appurtenances and accessories necessary to complete the work.

All proposals shall be sealed in an envelope, addressed to the Village of Bensenville, attention Village Clerk. Name, address and phone number of the bidder and the name of the project shall also appear on the outside of the envelope. Proposals must be submitted on the forms provided by the Engineer.

The Bidding Documents can be obtained through QuestCDN via the CBBEL website at www.cbbel.com/bidding-info or at www. questcdn.com under Login using QuestCDN #8946700 for a $30 nonrefundable fee. A QuestCDN login will be required for each planholder. Contact QuestCDN at 952-233-1632 or info@questcdn.com for assistance in membership registration and downloading digital product information.

Contractors must purchase bid documents and be shown on the Bidder’s Planholder List in order to bid. Bids received from contractors who are not in the Bidder’s Planholder List may be rejected.

A certified check/bank draft drawn on a solvent bank, payable without condition to the Village of Bensenville, or a bid bond in an amount not less than ten percent (10%) of the bid shall be submitted with each proposal as a guarantee that, if the proposal is accepted, a contract will be entered into and the performance of the contract is properly secured.

A Contract Bond, each in a sum equal to one hundred percent (100%) of the amount of the bid with sureties to be approved by the Village, must be furnished by the successful bidder. All bids or proposals shall contain an offer to furnish bonds upon acceptance of such bid or proposal.

Contractors shall be required to pay not less than the prevailing wage rates on the Project as established by the United States Department of Labor and the State of Illinois Department of Labor for Cook County. Copies of these wage rates are incorporated in the Contract Documents.

Contractors and subcontractors shall be IDOT pre-qualified in the respective discipline(s) they will be responsible for constructing. The right is reserved to reject any or all proposals, to waive technicalities, to postpone the bid opening, or to advertise

for new proposals, if in the judgment of the Village their best interests will be promoted thereby.

Nancy Quinn, Village Clerk, Village of Bensenville

(Published in the Addison Independent, Bensenville Independent & Villa Park Review April 18, 2024) 454222

NOTICE

CERTIFICATE NO. 79386 was filed in the office of the County Clerk of DuPage County on MARCH 25, 2024 wherein the business firm of QUALTIY HOME REMODELING, 77 W ALTGELD AVENUE, GLENDALE HEIGHTS, IL 60139 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:

Oscar Navarrete, 77 W Altegeld Avenue, Glendale Heights, IL 60139.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand and Official Seal at my office in Wheaton, Illinois, this 25TH day of MARCH, A.D. 2024.

Jean Kaczmarek

DuPage County Clerk

(Published in The Lombardian April 4, 11 & 18, 2024) 453362

NOTICE

CERTIFICATE NO. 79388 was filed in the office of the County Clerk of DuPage County on MARCH 26, 2024 wherein the business firm of LITIGATION PARTNERS GROUP, 606 GLENWOOD LANE, LOMBARD, IL 60148 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:

Edmund B. Kavanaugh, 606 Glenwood Lane, Lombard, IL 60148.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand and Official Seal at my office in Wheaton, Illinois, this 26TH day of MARCH, A.D. 2024.

Jean Kaczmarek

DuPage County Clerk

(Published in The Lombardian April 4, 11 & 18, 2024) 453373

LEGAL NOTICE

NOTICE OF SERVICE OF PROCESS BY PUBLICATION. NORTH CAROLINA, GUILFORD COUNTY. IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE, DISTRICT COURT DIVISION. 24 CVD 448 LEON L. KNOWLES V. ANDREA LANAE KNOWLES. TO: ANDREA LANAE KNOWLES.

Take notice that a pleading seeking relief against you has been filed in the above-entitled action. The nature of the relief being sought is as follows: Absolute Divorce. You are required to make a defense to such pleading no later than May 4th, 2024, and upon your failure to do so the party seeking service against you will apply to the Court for the relief sought.

Lisa A. Stewart, Attorney for the Plaintiff, LAW OFFICE OF STEPHEN E. ROBERTSON, PLLC 437 West Friendly Avenue, Suite 134, Greensboro, NC 27401

Posted Dates: 4/4/2024 4/11/2024 4/18/2024

(Published in The Lombardian April 4, 11 & 18, 2024) 453533

NOTICE

CERTIFICATE NO. 79393 was filed in the office of the County Clerk of DuPage County on MARCH 28, 2024, wherein the business firm of GMH COURIER SERVICE, 323 N. ELIZABETH STREET, LOMBARD, IL 60148 was registered; that the true or real name or names of the person or persons owning the business, with

this 8TH day of APRIL, A.D. 2024.

Jean Kaczmarek DuPage County Clerk (Published in The Lombardian April 18, 25 & May 2, 2024) 454078 NOTICE

CERTIFICATE NO. 79392 was filed in the office of the County Clerk of DuPage County on MARCH 28, 2024, wherein the business firm of ROXY’S COURIER SERVICE, 323 N. ELIZABETH STREET, LOMBARD, IL 60148 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: Roxanne Heath, 323 N. Elizabeth Street, Lombard, IL 60148.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand and Official Seal at my office in Wheaton, Illinois, this 28TH day of MARCH, A.D. 2024.

Jean Kaczmarek DuPage County Clerk (Published in The Lombardian April 11, 18 & 25, 2024) 453895

REAL ESTATE

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

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

Mount Carmel Prayer to the Blessed Virgin Mary Oh, most beautiful flower of Mt. Carmel, fruitful vine, splendor of Heaven. Blessed Mother of the Son of God, Immaculate Virgin, assist me in my necessity, Oh Star of the Sea, help me and show me here you are my Mother. Oh Holy Mary, Mother of God queen of Heaven and Earth, I humbly beseech you from the bottom of my heart to succor me in my necessity (make request). There are none that can withstand your power. Oh Mary, conceived without sin, pray for us who have recourse to thee (say three times). Holy Mary, I place this prayer in your hands (say three times). Amen. Say this prayer for three consecutive days and then you must publish and it will be granted to you. I am confident my prayers will be answered. Thank

When a Death Occurs...

When a death occurs, the order in which things need to be done often depends on where the death occurred That’s why we suggest that you ask a friend for help - someone who is more able to think clearly, and give you the support you need.

Well over sixty years, Pedersen Ryberg has provided

total respect in keeping with traditional values - whether a traditional

cremation, or memorial service. We strive to maintain family wishes

quality and value, and guide families in creating a