AI 6.26.25

Addison Independent

Newly renovated DuPage County Animal Services opens

On June 14, DuPage County officials celebrated the grand opening of the renovated DuPage County Animal Services’ facility in Wheaton with a ribbon-cutting ceremony.

The DuPage County Animal Services building was originally built in 1977 and has had no expansions in over 45 years of the facility’s existence.

While there have been some interior and mechanical system facility improvements, the program and community’s current needs justify an expansion and renovation project that doubles the amount of space.

The improvements include moving the main entrance to Manchester Road, towards the public view, which will give

this once hidden function a primary position on the county campus that emphasizes its role within the community.

The project consists of 4,340 square feet of renovations, 11,486 square feet of enclosed addition areas, plus a 2,217-square-foot covered patio for outdoor training and events, along with other contained outdoor exercise and play areas. The total project cost was $13.45 million.

Key facts

• Renovation includes improvements within 47 percent of the existing spaces, including expanded medical and surgical suites, renovated dog kennels, and outdoor play area improvements.

Advocates await action on bill protecting rights of immigrant students in Illinois

By Peter Hancock CAPITOL NEWS ILLINOIS

Bill would ensure right to free public K-12 education regardless of immigration status feel safe in our schools by passing HB 3247. We are going to unite and we are going to get that done.”

Immigration rights advocates in Illinois are anxiously awaiting the governor’s signature on legislation aimed at protecting K-12 students who may be in the country without legal authorization from being denied access to a free public education.

House Bill 3247, known as the “Safe Schools for All Act,” passed both chambers of the General Assembly in the final days of the spring session. It would prohibit schools from denying any child access to a free public education based on their actual or perceived

immigration status, or that of their parents.

It would also prohibit schools from disclosing, or threatening to disclose, information about a student’s immigration status or the status of a person associated with the child. And it would require schools to develop procedures for reviewing and authorizing requests from law enforcement agents attempting to enter a school or school facility.

The bill is intended to buffer K-12 students in Illinois from efforts by the Trump administration to launch mass deportations of noncitizens

living in the United States without legal authorization.

Speaking at a May 7 rally outside the Statehouse, where Democratic lawmakers and immigration rights advocates protested an appearance in Springfield that day of Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem, state Sen. Karina Villa, D-West Chicago, the chief Senate sponsor of the bill, vowed that Illinois would remain defiant of Trump’s political agenda.

“We are also going to protect our children,” she told the crowd gathered around a statue of Abraham Lincoln.

“We’re going to make them

On Jan. 20, the first day of the new administration, the

District 88 names

American Family Insurance as May Business Partner

During its May 19 meeting, the District 88 Board of Education, along with the administration, named American Family Insurance as a Business Partner.

The Business Partner program acknowledges companies, organizations and individuals for their support in building futures for District 88 students and helping to accomplish the district’s mission and vision.

Leticia Herrera, agent and owner with American Family Insurance, is a prime example of an individual and company working with us to achieve our goals. Herrera and her assistant, Julisa Guillen, en-

Department of Homeland Security rescinded a Biden-era policy that prevented federal agents from conducting immigration enforcement actions in certain “sensitive” areas, including schools, churches and hospitals.

thusiastically participate in District 88’s Heritage Spanish Career Fluency program, which helps students develop their skills in professional settings and introduces them to various career paths, while enhancing their biliteracy. The Heritage Spanish Career Fluency program wouldn’t be possible without the support of individuals like Herrera and Guillen. They have been incredibly generous and flexible and never say “no” when asked whether they can take on more students.

They have welcomed more than 30 District 88 pupils into their company.

Fred Tsao, an attorney for the Illinois Coalition for Im-

DuPage County officials held a ribbon-cutting ceremony June 14 to celebrate the grand opening of the renovated DuPage County Animal Services’ facility in Wheaton. The total cost of the project was $13.45 million.

Leticia Herrera, agent and owner with American Family Insurance, was named as a District 88 Business Partner during the District 88 Board of Education meeting on May 19.

‘Miles for the military’

Lombard Lilac Post 5815 conducted its #VFWDayOfService by sponsoring, participating, and collaborating with two elementary schools (Madison and Hammerschmidt) and holding a 5K and 1K race titled “Stars and Spikes: Miles for the Military” to raise funds for the Midwest Shelter for Homeless Veterans “Heroes Homes Project.” There were 1,030 entrants in the two races, and after expenses, the event raised $20,000 to go toward the project. The motto for the event was “No Hero Left Behind.” The highlight of the event was a tribute to all the veterans that were present, a live performance of the National Anthem and a presentation of a check to a representative of the project from VFW Post 5036 in St. Charles. Also, thanks to Cliff Hall from VFW Post 7539 in Bloomingdale for the use of his refurbished Jeep and trailer, they made for some memorable photos by those in attendance.

DuPage County State’s Attorney Robert Berlin and Naperville Chief of Police Jason Arres announced last week that a 14-year-old male Naperville juvenile has been charged with possessing a loaded semiautomatic pistol.

The juvenile appeared at his detention hearing where Judge Chantelle Porter ordered he be released on home detention with electronic monitoring.

The juvenile is charged with one count of unlawful possession of a weapon, a Class 4 felony.

On June 14 at approximately 7:33 p.m., while conducting additional patrols in the area of Washington Street and Jefferson Avenue during a “teen takeover” event in downtown Naperville, an officer with the Naperville Police Department allegedly observed the juvenile

displaying suspicious behavior.

After making contact with the juvenile, the officer conducted a safety pat down during which he allegedly recovered a loaded 9mm semi-automatic handgun in the juvenile’s waistband. The juvenile was taken into custody at this time.

“The allegation that a 14-year-old boy was in possession of a loaded, semi-automatic handgun during an extremely crowded event in downtown Naperville is extremely disturbing,” Berlin said.

“Once again, the Naperville Police Department’s vigilant policing and heads up work led to the removal of an allegedly illegally possessed handgun from our streets and possibly prevented a future tragedy.”

The juvenile’s next court appearance is scheduled for June 27 in front of Judge Porter.

Chiropractor indicted on 13 additional charges alleging aggravated criminal sexual abuse/criminal sexual assault

DuPage County State’s Attorney Robert Berlin and Aurora Police Chief Matt Thomas recently announced that an Aurora chiropractor charged last month with sexually abusing two boys in his care is facing additional charges concerning the sexual abuse and assault of three additional alleged victims.

Murtaza Hameed, 46, appeared at his arraignment June 10 on one count of criminal sexual assault (Class 1 felony), three counts of aggravated criminal sexual abuse (Class 1 felony), eight counts of aggravated criminal sexual abuse (Class 2 felony), one count of attempt criminal sexual assault (Class 2 felony) and six counts of misdemeanor battery.

On May 29, the Grand Jury returned a 13-count indictment against Hameed alleging three counts of aggravated criminal sexual abuse (Class 1 felony), eight counts of aggravated criminal sexual abuse (Class 2 felony), one count of criminal sexual assault (Class 2 felony) and one count of attempt criminal sexual assault (Class 2 felony) concerning three victims.

On May 12, Hameed appeared in First Appearance Court where the court granted the state’s motion to deny pre-trial release. He has remained in custody since that time.

At an appearance June 10, Judge Telander granted the defense’s petition for pre-trail release over the state’s objection. Hameed was released June 10 on electronic monitoring with home confinement and the

condition that he not have any contact with any minors other than his children.

In January 2025, the DuPage County Children’s Center received information from the Aurora Police Department regarding an alleged sexual assault of a minor that occurred at a chiropractic office in Aurora. Following an investigation into the matter, it is alleged that on Jan. 11, the victim, a 17-year-old boy, was receiving treatment from Hameed at his office located in the 3800 block of McCoy Drive, when Hameed sexually abused him.

Through the course of their investigation, authorities also learned that a similar incident had allegedly occurred in 2016 involving a 16-year-old boy.

Following Hameed’s arrest, three more victims have come forward alleging Hameed inappropriately touched them. It is alleged that the incidents occurred between July 2016 through January 2025 and that the age of the victims spans an age range from pre-adolescent to adult males.

Anyone who believes they may have been a victim or has additional information is urged to contact DuPage County Investigator Dirk Ollech at Dirk. Ollech@dupagecounty.gov or 630-407-2750 or Aurora Police Investigator Jennifer Hillgoth at cosentij@aurora.il.us or 630-256-5554.

Hameed’s next court appearance is scheduled for July 8 in front of Judge Brian Telander.

Submitted photoS Rock Valley Publishing

SUBMITTED PHOTO Rock Valley Publishing

Bensenville’s Music in the Park summer concert series returned on June 11 with a performance by Heart to Heartbreaker (Women of Rock). Arra took the stage on Wednesday, June 25. The next Music in the Park will be held July 9, featuring American English. Each band starts at 7:30 p.m. and plays until 9:30 p.m. A classic car show cruise night begins at 6 p.m. each Wednesday along Green and Center streets.

Downers

Music in the Park 2025 season begins

The 2025 season of Bensenville’s Music in the Park kicked-off on Wednesday, June 11 with a rockin’ performance by Heart to Heartbreaker!

Residents and visitors alike came out to downtown Bensenville to enjoy a warm summer evening of everyone’s favorite free, family-friendly outdoor concert series.

The remaining 2025 Music in the Park dates are as follows:

• June 25: Arra

• July 9: American English

• July 16: Fuze Band

• July 23: Disco Circus

• July 30: The Country Night

• Aug. 6: EZFM

• Aug. 13: Kashmir

• Aug. 20: Rocks Off

Each band starts at 7:30 p.m., and a Classic Car Show starts at 6 p.m. each Wednesday excluding the week of Independence Day.

On July 4, join the village instead for LibertyFest at Redmond Recreation Complex with live music, food, drinks, and a fireworks show. The evening begins with DJ M.B. Entertainment at 6 p.m., followed by the upbeat country sounds of Wild Daisy at 7:30 p.m. Fireworks blast off around 9:30 p.m.

For more information about Bensenville’s Music in the Park, LibertyFest, and other summer events, visit Bensenville.il.us.

Grove South High School teacher/soccer coach indicted on 52 additional charges alleging aggravated criminal sexual abuse/criminal sexual assault

DuPage County State’s Attorney Robert Berlin announced last week that Christina Formella, a former Downers Grove South High School teacher previously charged with having an inappropriate sexual relationship with a student, has been indicted on 52 additional counts involving previously unknown sexual abuse and assault of the student.

Christina Formella

Formella, 30, appeared at a status hearing during which the state filed a second petition to deny her pre-trial release, which was denied by Judge Mia McPherson.

On May 20, a DuPage County

Grand Jury returned a true bill against Formella alleging 20 counts of criminal sexual assault (Class 1 felony), 20 counts of aggravated criminal sexual abuse (Class 1 felony), six counts of indecent solicitation of a child (Class 3 felony) and six counts of grooming (Class 4 felony). On March 17, Formella appeared in First Appearance Court and was charged with one count of aggravated criminal sexual abuse, one count of criminal sexual assault and one count of aggravated criminal sexual abuse.

Following her appearance on March 17, the court denied the state’s motion to detain her pre-trial and she was released.

Conditions of Formella’s release include no entry into Downers Grove South High School and no

contact with the victim or anyone under the age of 18.

On March 15, the victim, who was 15 years old at the time of the alleged assault, and his parents went to the Downers Grove Police Department to report inappropriate sexual contact allegedly committed by the boy’s soccer coach/tutor, later identified as Formella.

An investigation by the Downers Grove Police Department and the DuPage County Children’s Advocacy Center led to the previous charges against Formella.

On April 17, the victim and his parents went to the DuPage County Children’s Advocacy Center for interviews during which the victim disclosed additional sexual abuse, allegedly committed by Formella.

Following further investigation, it is alleged that the sexual

abuse began in January 2023 and continued through August/ September, 2024. It is alleged that during this time, Formella sent the victim multiple text messages that were grooming in nature and that she and the victim had engaged in sexual acts approximately 50 times, both at the school and at Formella’s home, including at least 45 times at the school.

“The new allegations against Ms. Formella, including the allegations of grooming and that the abuse lasted nearly two years, are beyond disturbing,” Berlin said.

“I thank the victim in this case for having the courage to come forward during what I image is an extremely difficult time for him.”

Formella’s next court appearance is scheduled for Aug. 4 in front of Judge Mia McPherson.

West Nile virus specimens confirmed in 17 Illinois counties

The Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) is reminding the public that along with the start of summer, mosquito season is under way in Illinois.

With this comes the risk of West Nile virus (WNV), which has been confirmed from environmental samples in 17 counties around the state so far this year.

The reminder comes as public health officials around the country highlighted the importance of taking action to “Fight the Bite” during National Mosquito Control Awareness Week, which was held June 15-21. No human cases of WNV have been reported in Illinois so far this year, but in 2024,

there were 69 confirmed human cases of WNV including 13 deaths, the highest number since 17 WNV-related human deaths were recorded in 2018.

“With mosquito season under way in Illinois, it is now time for Illinoisans, especially seniors and those with weakened immune systems, to start taking precautions to prevent

Extreme heat postpones Sunrise Park grand opening and Live at White Pines events

Due to the forecasted excessive heat, the Bensenville Park District has postponed the Sunrise Park grand opening and the Live at White Pines Cars, Cornhole and Cocktails event featuring Gallery—The Classic Rock Experience, both originally scheduled for Saturday, June 21. The decision was made out

of an abundance of caution to ensure the safety and well-being of community members, participants and staff. The Sunrise Park grand opening was scheduled to take place from 10 a.m. to noon, and the Live at White Pines event from 4 to 7:30 p.m.

“Community safety is our top priority,” said Executive Director Joseph Vallez. “With

the extreme temperatures expected, it would not be responsible to ask patrons to attend outdoor events that may put their health at risk.”

Rescheduled dates for both events will be announced in the near future. Updates will be provided on the Bensenville Park District’s website, BvilleParks.org, and social media channels.

mosquito bites,” said IDPH Director Dr. Sameer Vohra. “A bite from a mosquito infected with WNV can cause serious illness. The best way to ‘Fight the Bite’ is to practice the ‘Three R’s’: reduce the opportunity for mosquitos to enter your home, repel mosquitos by wearing insect repellent outdoors and report standing water in your community where mosquitoes can breed.”

A county is considered positive for West Nile virus if a mosquito, horse or human from that county tests positive for the virus. The counties to report WNV so far this year included Bureau, Christian, Cook, DeKalb, DuPage, Fulton, Grundy, Hancock, Henry, Marshall, McDonough, McHenry, Peoria, Scott, Stark, Tazewell and Winnebago. Last year, WNV was confirmed in 72 counties in Illinois.

The first WNV-positive mos-

quito batch of this year was found May 9 in Rockford.

Updated data on WNV can be found on the IDPH West Nile Virus Surveillance page.

IDPH supports mosquito control efforts throughout the state by providing $2.8 million in funding to Illinois’ 97 local health departments for vector surveillance and control activities.

This includes purchasing and applying larvicide, working with municipal governments and local news media for WNV prevention and education, and investigating mosquito production sites and nuisance mosquito complaints. Local health departments collect mosquitoes for West Nile virus testing.

Monitoring for WNV in Illinois includes tests for mosquito batches, as well as testing sick horses and humans with West

See WEST NILE, Page 8

Opinion

Slices of life

Pearl of great price

As a kid, I loved collecting shells on the beach - still do.

There is something calming about walking on the sand, listening to the waves and looking for small treasures the tide washes up.

I never found a pearl—not many of us do on the beach. You usually have to take a deep dive to find a pearl, but I was always enamored of them.

Pearls come from humble beginnings—from a errant grain of sand or some other irritant that finds its way inside the shell of a clam (or mollusk or other shelled ocean creature.) The clam detects the pearl, which at this point can probably be described as a thorn in its side. It hurts, probably intensely so, but the clam has no way expelling the irritant. It has to learn to live with it.

So the clam produces a product to soften the hard edges of the sand grain.

Gradually the clam surrounds the irritant sand with a substance that rounds out the edges and lessens the pain caused by the unwanted and uninvited guest.

Over time, the unwelcome irritant becomes almost a part of the clam. Still felt, still present, but no longer painful.

For the clam, it is a presence that is infinite and neverending.

In many ways, grief is like a pearl.

It enters, unwanted and uninvited but once inside the shell, there is no going back. There is no expelling grief once it has entered your life.

At first, grief is excruciating, akin to being poked with a thousand sharp needles. But you have no choice but to endure its wrath—no way to expel its presence. So you find work-arounds. You learn new habits that lessen the intensity of the sorrow and regrets and goodbyes you never got the chance to say.

You find means to soften the edges of grief and create a sort of buffer around it to shield you from its intensity. You learn to live with grief. It becomes a part of you - infinite and never-ending, yet defining

The path to responsible hemp regulation in Illinois

By Justin Ward

Imagine if a single law could wipe out years of progress in a federally legal industry.

That’s the threat facing Illinois’ hemp producers and retailers today.

By Jill Pertler Columnist

in ways you never could have imagined.

And over time, over days and weeks and years, you begin to create your pearl.

Another reference to pearls I’ve always loved was from the book “The Scarlet Letter.”

In it, the protagonist, Hester Prynn, who is emblazoned with the scarlet “A” for her transgressions as an “adulteress” (and refusing to name the father) names her only child Pearl.

“Pearl of great price— purchased with all she hadher mother’s only treasure!”

Here, pearl provides another analogy to grief. Pearl of great price—purchased with all that she had: I love thinking about grief that way.

We pay a great price for a grief that seems uninvited, unlivable and devastating, but when we make it through, when we pay our own great price and create our own pearl, we do truly come upon a treasure.

It’s a treasure of understanding and perspective—all built on love.

Always, always infinite love. Purchased with all that we had—quite literally.

In that, I claim pride in my grief. Much like a clam, and much like Hester Prynn can claim pride for their own pearls.

All started out completely unwanted. All caused unforeseen growth and the overcoming of the insurmountable by the creation of our own pearls.

Which for me have become the ultimate definition of beauty—not to mention survival.

Jill Pertler is an awardwinning syndicated columnist, published playwright and author. Don’t miss a slice; follow the Slices of Life page on Facebook.

Hemp isn’t a loophole—it’s a lifeline for small businesses and communities. Policies must support innovation and safety, not criminalization. The people turning to hemp are people looking for a healthy alternative to pain management and a life free of the fear of addiction. We must protect kids, but we also must protect the people who have come to depend on these healthy alternatives.

There certainly are bad actors in this industry, which is why the Illinois Healthy Alternatives Association (ILHAA) is stepping up to propose a balanced and responsible approach to regulation that prioritizes consumer safety, especially for our children.

We remain committed to working hand-inhand with lawmakers to create a framework that safeguards children without stifling the growing hemp industry. Our proposed policy recommendations are designed to ensure responsible practices while promoting consumer confidence in these products.

One of the cornerstones of our proposals is the establishment of a minimum age requirement of 21 for the purchase of hemp-derived products, except for nonactive-duty veterans ages 18 and older. This measure is crucial in preventing underage access to these products, ensuring they are available to only responsible adults who understand their use.

In addition to age restrictions, we are advocating comprehensive product testing through independent, credentialed laboratories. This full-panel testing will confirm the purity and potency of hemp products, assuring consumers that what they are purchasing

meets rigorous safety standards. In an industry that has seen rapid growth and innovation, it is essential for consumers to trust the products they are using, particularly when it comes to their health and well-being.

Standardized and accurate labeling is another critical recommendation. By requiring all hemp products to include clear, consistent labels that align with testing results, we can prevent confusion and ensure that consumers are fully informed about what they are consuming. Furthermore, prohibiting look-alike packaging that mimics popular snacks and candy brands will help to shield children from inadvertently accessing these products. ILHAA stands out as a distinct voice for balanced hemp reform in Illinois.

Our broad representation across the state—from urban retailers in Chicago to familyrun farms in rural areas— allows us to understand the diverse impacts of hemp policy on various communities and businesses.

While we acknowledge the importance of safety and regulation, we also believe in preserving consumer access to beneficial hemp products, such as CBD and full-spectrum extracts. Adults should have access to safe, well-labeled alternatives for health support without the threat of prohibition.

ILHAA is dedicated to fostering a hemp industry that thrives alongside the marijuana sector under fair regulations. We stand ready to collaborate with lawmakers to create a regulatory environment that is both sensible and equitable. Ideally, we would like to get an agreement this spring, but if it cannot happen now, we will continue to work with legislators to create a regulatory framework to protect kids and make Illinois a leader in this emerging industry. Together, we can achieve a future where hemp products are safe, accessible, and beneficial for all Illinoisans.

Justin Ward is president of Illinois Healthy Alternatives Association

Congressional lawmakers react to U.S. bombing Iranian nuclear sites

U.S. Rep. Sean Casten Illinois 6th Congressional District

“This is not about the merits of Iran’s nuclear program. No president has the authority to bomb another country that does not pose an imminent threat to the U.S. without the approval of Congress. This is an unambiguous impeachable offense.”

“I’m not saying we have the votes to impeach. I’m saying that you do not do this without Congressional approval and if [Speaker Mike] Johnson [(RLa.)] doesn’t grow a spine and learn to be a real boy tomorrow we have a (big) problem that puts our very republic at risk.”

U.S. Rep. Raja Krishnamoorthi

Illinois 8th Congressional District

“I’ve said it before, and I’ll say it again: Iran cannot have a nuclear weapon. Cannot. Which is why President Trump’s decision to pull out of the Iran nuclear deal is proving to be a grave misstep.

“However, the President also cannot take unilateral military action in Iran without Congressional approval. We must pursue a diplomatic resolution to protect American troops,

our interests in the region, and global peace. As I return to Washington this week, and as a senior member of the House Intelligence Committee, I will seek detailed information regarding this developing situation.”

U.S. Sen. Tammy Duckworth

“Trump bombing Iran was illegal and unjustified. I ran for Congress to make sure our

leaders consider the true costs of war. And I will be in the Senate, standing on my titanium legs, demanding answers from Trump.

“I ran for Congress so that when the drums of war started beating in Washington again, I’d be in a position to make sure that our leaders fully consider the true costs of war—not just in dollars and cents, but in the sacrifices and blood of our troops.

“The Trump Administration illegally bombed Iran, putting American troops and citizens at risk of retaliation and threatening to draw us into yet another Middle East war without Constitutionally-required Congressional approval. I have long said Iran cannot obtain a nuclear weapon. But this goal could and should have been pursued through diplomatic means first. See BOMBING, Page 5

Good afternoon, Lombard calling. Yesterday, garbage pickup day, I heard the truck approaching. I was walking with the help of my third leg—my cane—to retrieve the can after pick up. The truck driver drove slightly past my driveway, stopped and got out of the truck grabbed my trash can and asked. “Where does this go?” I said behind my house. He ran pulling the can and put it behind my house. There are, I repeat, are, wonderful helpful people. However, they do not make the breaking news on TV or the headlines of newspapers. I do not know his name. If he’s reading this I want him to know I appreciate his kindness and I will try to pay it forward. Take care.

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Hey, I must have missed it. What are they doing at Glenbard East?

Editor’s note: Your inquiry was forwarded to Glenbard High School District 87 for a response, which is as follows: “Construction projects are currently under way at Glenbard East High School as part of Glenbard District 87’s 10-year Facility Master Plan. This long-term plan identifies and addresses capital improvement needs across all four Glenbard high schools. For more information, visit: glenbard87.org/facility-master-plan. Current summer construction at

Glenbard East includes:

• Full replacement of the outer curtain wall on all three levels of the east side of the building, as well as classroom renovations along the curtain wall

• Renovation of the library AV center, 3 science labs and 2 restrooms -Roof replacement

• HVAC modifications to band/choir area and Rider Hall

• Replacement of classroom unit ventilators at curtain wall

• Replacement of the stadium turf field and track

In addition, plans are moving forward for a cafeteria expansion and construction of a new, secure visitor entrance starting in fall 2025. The creation of a new student commons is expected to commence in summer/fall 2026. These renovations are part of a larger, multi-year effort to enhance the school’s facilities.” * * *

An innocent bystander was killed at a “No Kings” rally in Utah. There has been destructive behavior during these and other protests. Apparently radical leftists can’t seem to protest peacefully. Committing acts of violence is not the way to show your frustration with the government and get your voice heard; it only serves to show how unhinged some people have become. You want to take the MAGAs to task—of

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 630-629-TALK 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.

which I am not one but an independent yet conservative-leaning voice—that’s fine. I have no problem with free speech and the right to protest. And when asked about acts of violence during protests, before a committee in Washington, D.C., even our own Gov. Pritzker would not definitively denounce them. In fact, news reports quote him back in April as saying, “Never before in my life have I called for mass protests, for mobilization, for disruption—but I am now.” Wow, just wow.

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There was a ridiculous claim in the June 12 issue of Speak Out. Someone claimed that “Musk’s destruction of the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) is killing about 103 people per hour, most of them children. The total so far is about 300,000 people.” What a ludicrous claim. Where are these 300,000 deaths, all because of “cuts” in one agency that many people had never heard of? By the way, here’s a fact. A government contractor for the USAID just pleaded guilty to bribery of a public official in a decade-long bribery scheme involving at least 14 prime contracts worth over $550 million in U.S. taxpayer dollars. Who would be surprised if that case of corruption is just the tip of the iceberg at the USAID?

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I heard some commentators point out that leftists frequently use euphemisms. Riots are described as “mostly peaceful protests.” Illegal aliens are referred to as “undocumented citizens.”

The list goes on, with terms like “reproductive rights” and “gender affirming care.” As one of these commentators pointed out, if you have to put some extreme spin on a bunch of terms, you’re trying to commandeer reality. Another added, “If you have to spray everything with perfume, then maybe it’s rotting.”

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Just reading the latest Speak Out, seeing the “I voted for Trump but...” input.

I think I know you people. Aren’t you the ones complaining about government never doing anything, never getting anything done. Well,

• Bombing

Trump has his foot firmly on the gas. He knows the time is short. Maybe you need to sit back and enjoy the ride. Is he gonna make a few mistakes? Of course. By the way, the whole immigration kerfuffle: FYI 1.5 million have had their day in court and been told to leave. On a more local note: the e-scooter dilemma is unfortunately not going to end well. I just hope I’m not the one driving.

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Villa Park here. We’ve always been cognizant of the rule that holiday decorations should be taken down in a reasonable timeframe. The same goes for political signage once an election is over. Just wondering why Trump supporters are allowed to keep all their MAGA signage up year round. Personally, there’s never been a politician or even a reality show host I’ve liked to the degree I’d pledge my undying, year-round loyalty to them and want the world to know it. Frankly, my family would question my grip on reality if I were to do that, but I get that we’re in new, uncharted territory here. Still, why is it allowed? Here is a leader who foments hate and violence and we have to look at our neighbors celebrating that because no one wants to regulate it, I guess. It’s cult-like and does not make for a friendly neighborhood atmosphere. If the village is afraid to approach them, then I guess we know their propaganda was effective.

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Responding to the criticizer of my “rant” of June 12 addressing my disdain for “self-entitled snowflakes” who have to possibly bag their own groceries and would like a discount for doing so in the June 19 Speak Out. I’ve been around enough to see how many people think they are owed something, and their often disgusting and obnoxious behavior when they don’t get that something. I do not demand/request a perk that I didn’t earn, unless it is an advertised benefit. I guess I do not know a joke when I see one. If the original author’s intention was a joke, I sure didn’t laugh. And, in my opinion, sarcasm used in this forum to prove a point is at best ineffective and solves nothing, though I doubt that

(Continued from page 4

“In this dangerous moment, my top priority is—and the Trump Administration’s top priority should be—ensuring the safety and security of American troops, personnel, diplomats and citizens in the region, as well as those of our partners and allies. But the Trump Administration must immediate-

was the caller’s intention. I do suspect that you may have been the original contributor of this, again, ridiculous concept of self-entitlement. If so, I hope I ticked you off enough that maybe you’ll look in the mirror and see yourself for what you are: a self-entitled cancer on our society, no matter how minor the infraction. There are enough good people in this world to override your petty greed.

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I think it’s great that we’re supporting Israel and helping Israel. It’s a shame that we can’t do the same for the Ukraine, and it’s a shame that our president can’t do anything; that he’s just a puppet. He’s a Putin puppet.

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Our Democratic Party has to change our agenda to win future elections. After covering up his leadership problems, we are finally letting President Biden live out his golden years. Now we need to take control of our radical left who defy common sense on issues that are detrimental to the future of our country. Positive action instead of name-calling is a start. Loyalty sometimes wears blinders. Thank you.

* * *

This is in response to the caller from northwest Lombard. Please give some slack to your neighbor; a plastic bag of dog doo is not going to stink up your garbage can. Your can was probably at the curb to be emptied by Waste Management. I can understand a complaint if the doo was not enclosed in a bag. Be kind; there are so many bigger things in life to worry about.

* * *

It’s OK to say you’re a Democrat, but you don’t need to undermine our president to prove it. Our country loses credibility when we demonstrate by riots and burning the American flag. Many of our fathers and their fathers gave their lives to give us the freedom and lifestyle we have today. The Communists and fascists are always at our back door trying to get in.

* * *

Hi, Villa Park calling and I’m calling about the opinion page of the Villa Park Review from June 12. It’s shameful that your paper has

become a propaganda outlet for the Democrat Party; as your editorial said Trump’s cuts will make our communities less safe and Illinois legislators must act. And you highlight two extreme partisan Democrat radicals: Violet Johnicker and Pastor G Joseph Mitchell. I don’t care what these people say. Trump is actually closing the border and making our communities safer, and this propaganda of your paper complaining about the Trump administration’s cut of waste that do not help make our streets and communities safer. So please stop with your Democrat Party propaganda in your opinion pages.

* * *

During their silly No Kings Day spectacle, regressive leftists kept repeating that they want to protect immigrants’ rights. I’m for protecting immigrants’ rights, too, as long as immigrants are here legally. If they’re here illegally, as millions and millions are, sorry. As for their other worn-out rant, Trump is an authoritarian, let me know when Trump shuts down CNN and MSNBC, shuts down leftist papers like the New York Times and the Washington Post, and arrests those of you who were at these No Kings Day protests. Then I’ll be convinced he’s an authoritarian.

* * * These shills on “The View” never cease to amaze me how out of touch they are. Whoopi Goldberg made an absurd comment that black people have it as bad as women living in Iran. So says a highly successful black woman who makes $8 million a year spouting her nonsense on “The View” and has an estimated worth of $30 million.

* * *

Ready to pay more for gasoline here in the leftist utopia of Illinois when the gas tax goes up July 1? Ready to pay more for energy this summer? You’re probably already doing that. At least our billionaire governor can afford it, along with the state senators and representatives who have received substantial pay raises since 2023. They’ll all smile, pretend nothing’s wrong and probably find some way to blame Trump for all the price increases.

ly come before Congress not only to provide our troops with the confidence that their Commander in Chief is upholding the Constitution that they swore to support and defend, but also because it is my Constitutional responsibility to make sure he’s not getting us into yet another quagmire in the Middle East.”

U.S. Sen. Dick Durbin

“During his first term, President Trump killed the Iran nuclear deal, which required mandatory inspections, and invited this dangerous situation. Iran without inspectors appears to have been developing dangerous weapons grade materials.

“And now, President Trump’s actions in bombing Iran puts the U.S. on the brink of a wider war in the Middle East, all without Constitutionally required Congressional approval. Our recent experiences in Iraq should be a stark reminder of becoming embroiled in wars in the Middle East.”

out& about Jane Charmelo

ABA Revolution offers experiential therapy, comprehensive treatment

Daniel Blank believes that center-based ABA (applied behavior analysis) therapy at the new ABA Revolution facility, 200 Roosevelt Road, Villa Park, will provide children diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder, or ASD, with experiences that can help them function in everyday life—all with the help of trained professionals and the latest technology and educational tools available.

What is ABA?

According to Blank, applied behavior analysis is based on psychologist B.F. Skinner’s (1904-90) theory of operant conditioning; specifically, the use of positive reinforcement as a way to increase desired behaviors.

(Actually, psychologist Edward Thorndike [18741949] predates Skinner. His theory called “Law of Effect” was introduced in the early 20th century; he found that positive reinforcement strengthens associations and increases the frequency of specific behaviors.)

Essentially, when a behavior is followed by something that is “valued” (a reward), an individual is more likely to repeat it, thus encouraging

positive behavior change.

ABA therapy is considered an “evidence-based best practice treatment” by the U.S. surgeon general and the American Psychological Association.

HowABA works

According to Autism Speaks, the foundation of ABA therapy programs combines communication and language, social skills, selfcare, play and leisure, motor skills, and learning and academic skills.

The therapist identifies goal behaviors and/or skills, which will subsequently be met with identified positive rewards, such as a book, praise, a toy or play time, for instance—so the therapy is unique to each child with autism.

ABA Revolution registered behavior technicians, or RBTs, work one-on-one with the children—and keep data that is then reported to a board certified behavior analyst, or BCBA. There will be “more than one-on-one interaction” with the children, Blank highlighted, adding that there will be a flow of information back and forth between the RBTs and

BCBAs.

“We only hire experienced, licensed therapists,” he emphasized.

The facility

Surrounding the central play area, ABA Revolution consists of separate play rooms, each of which serves a purpose.

“Each room has a theme,” Blank said.

The block room offers large and small blocks from which to build things, and offers the children a chance to work with other children, while not only using their imagination but developing large and fine motor skills.

The art room offers children a chance to express themselves through a variety of media. Other rooms offer a simulated library, simulated classroom, music and movement, an interactive projection system, and a simulated grocery store and restaurant.

They are “play-based in a way to get them ready” to transition to real-life situations, Blank said, adding that the center will also have a robot programmed to interact with children with autism.

Another feature of the facility is a mock dental chair

Lombard Police Department plans increased traffic enforcement for Fourth of July

As Independence Day approaches, the Lombard Police Department is preparing for increased traffic enforcement to help ensure the safety of residents and motorists.

The enforcement campaign will run from June 20 to July 7, covering the three summer weekends before and after the holiday.

“We’re asking all residents and visitors to celebrate Independence Day responsibly,” said Sgt. Tom Balsitis. “If you’re celebrating this Independence Day, make a plan before you head out. Don’t drive impaired and always wear your seat belt.”

The Lombard Police Department will join the Illinois State Police and over 200 local police and sheriffs’ departments in this statewide effort.

Driving under the influence poses a serious risk not only to the driver but also to passengers and everyone else on the road. The financial and personal consequences of a DUI can be severe. Choosing not to drive while impaired is a simple decision that can prevent tragedy and save lives.

and hair salon chair, which Blank said will help children with autism “get used to the idea” of going to the dentist and getting a haircut. There will be actual hairdressers who will come in to give haircuts—free of charge.

In fact, Blank noted with excitement, “We’ve already had two people say they’d like to do this [cut children’s hair].”

With the variety of rooms and opportunities, “We just want them [the children] to be engaged in as many different activities as possible,” Blank summed up.

Active parent involvement

Blank described that the RBTs and BCBAs will be in

constant communication with parents, who will also be getting training of their own.

“We are absolutely going to have parent training every week,” he said, adding that parents will spend an hourand-a-half weekly “to reinforce the skills we’re working on.”

Additionally, the training will “help the parents segue” with their children into real-life situations.

Getting help, and hope

The ABA Revolution website states that “The ABA Revolution brings together the science of ABA with the creativity and exploration of experiential learning. This approach fosters not only skill-building but also genu-

ine excitement for learning.”

Blank was emphatic when he commented that “Early intervention is critical,” adding, “You need an early diagnosis. You need early treatment.”

“I spent a great deal of time designing [the facility],” he said modestly, with the idea being, “How can we take things from the outside world and bring them inside?”

“These are things these kids are going to encounter in real life,” Blank added.

“Our goal here is to make this the premier ABA center in the country,” he concluded.

For more information on ABA Revolution, such as applications, hours and insurance, call 224-490-2232 or visit www.abarevolutionillinois.com.

To celebrate safely, designate a sober driver and don’t let friends or family members drive impaired. Other important tips include:

• Give your designated driver your keys before you go out. If you are impaired by alcohol, cannabis or any other drug, call a taxi, take public transit use a ride-sharing service, or call a sober friend or family member to get you home safely.

• Report suspected drunk drivers promptly to law enforcement by pulling over and dialing 911.

• Ensure that all passengers in your vehicle wear their seat belt. It’s not only the law, but also an important defense against impaired drivers.

The “Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over,” “Drive High Get a DUI” and “Click It or Ticket” campaigns are made possible by federal traffic safety funds administered by the Illinois Department of Transportation. The enforcement efforts are complemented by IDOT’s “It’s Not a Game” media campaign, which emphasizes the serious consequences of impaired driving and other unsafe driving behaviors.

ABA Revolution, 220 Roosevelt Road, Villa Park, is now accepting children ages 2-8 who have been diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder, or ASD. The center-based facility features themed rooms for play and learning, the latter of which includes opportunities to help children with autism segue into real-life situations, such as getting a haircut or going to the dentist, as shown here with CEO and co-founder Daniel Blank. The central play area includes a variety of items that help develop large-motor skills and youth-size lunch tables.

Jane Charmelo photos Rock Valley Publishing

Fourth of July fireworks display at Madison Meadow Park

The Village of Lombard will be hosting its annual fireworks display on Friday, July 4, at Madison Meadow Park, beginning at approximately 9:30 p.m. or once the sky is completely dark.

Temporary parking re -

strictions will be in effect in the neighborhoods surrounding Madison Meadow Park to facilitate a smooth traffic flow and minimize congestion. Standard parking regulations, including no parking in front of fire hydrants and

within 25 feet of all intersections, will continue to be enforced.

Event-goers driving to the area are strongly encouraged to plan ahead and allow extra time for parking.

As a reminder, the con -

sumption of alcohol on park property during the event is strictly prohibited, in adherence to Lombard Park District ordinances. In the event of inclement weather, the event time may be changed or rescheduled.

Stay connected and receive the latest updates by following the official Village of Lombard Facebook, Twitter and Instagram pages, or by visiting the village website.

To ensure the safety of all attendees, the Lombard Po -

lice Department may operate drones in the park area for real-time monitoring both before and during the event. For additional event information, including maps and details, visit www.villageoflombard.org/fourthofjuly

Coming events

GERALD ROY PANFIL, 67

Gerald Roy Panfil II, age 67, of Monticello, Indiana, formerly of Lombard, passed away June 17, 2025.

Gerald was the dear son of Lois and the late Gerald Roy Panfil; dear brother of Charmaine (Mark) Gunter of Monticello, Grace (Kenneth) Hillyard of Lombard, Glenn (Cindy) Panfil of Glen Ellyn, Lois (William) Koch of Monticello, Darrel (Sheryn) Panfil of Lombard, David (April) Panfil of Lombard, Sharon (Daniel) Petrowski of Monticello and Beverly (Jose) Benitz of Monticello; uncle of 20 and great-uncle of many.

Gerald had worked as a union carpenter for 45 years. He loved working on his hot rods and always had a car he was working on.

Gerald bought Panfil Acres in Indiana where the family likes to camp. He also enjoyed boating.

Gerald loved his family dearly.

A Visitation will be held on Monday, June 30th, from 3:00 PM until 9:00 PM at Brust Funeral Home, 135 S. Main Street, Lombard. On Tuesday, July 1st, he will be Lying-In-State from 9:30 AM until the time of the Funeral Service at 10:00 AM at St.

John’s Ev. Lutheran Church, 215 S. Lincoln St., Lombard. Interment will follow at Chapel Hill Gardens West, Oakbrook Terrace.

Donations in Gerald’s name to the American Cancer Society, P.O. Box 10393, Chicago, IL 60610 would be appreciated. Info: www. brustfuneralhome.com or 888-629-0094.

PAUL A. REINKING, 81

Paul A. Reinking August 1943 – April 2025

Paul A. Reinking, 81, of Sun City West, AZ, formerly of Lombard, IL, passed away in April peacefully after a courageous battle with Alzheimer’s.

Born in Oak Park, IL, Paul was a lifelong golf enthusiast whose career spanned decades as a teacher, coach, PGA Professional, and leader in the golf community. He played collegiate golf at the University of Illinois, later teaching and coaching at Glenbard East H.S. before serving as a PGA Professional at several Illinois clubs, including Kankakee C.C. His 35-year career included serving twice as President of the Illinois PGA and as a member of the National PGA Board of Directors.

Paul cherished his family

above all. He is survived by his beloved wife of 57 years, Judy Long Reinking; daughter Kristin ReinkingJackson of Peoria, AZ; grandchildren Amanda Woodard, Trey Woodard (Arleth Woodard) and Zach Woodard; greatgrandchildren Damian Baucum and Arely Woodard; brother Keith Reinking; Brother-in-law Jeff Long (Jodi Long) and nephews Kevin and Ryan Long. He was preceded in death by his father, Lawrence Reinking, mother, Erna Lichtenberger and his son, Jeffrey Paul Reinking.

Paul will be remembered for his passion for golf, his dedication to others, and his generous heart. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Hospice of the Valley Arizona or the Alzheimer’s Association in his honor.

ROSEMARY N. WAKELY, 99

Rosemary N. Wakely, nee Bosi, of Downers Grove, formerly of Lombard, passed away peacefully on Wednesday June 18, 2025, at the age of 99.

Rosemary was the loving wife of the late Richard; loving mother of David (Diane) of Wisc., Mark

(Pam) of Lombard, Jonathan (Victoria) of North Carolina, Matthew (Vicki) of Batavia, Peter (Julie) of Downers Grove; fond grandmother of 8; great grandmother of 4; She was proceeded in death by her brothers Peter and Henry Bosi.

Rosemary grew up in Chicago and lived in Lombard for many years before moving to Downers Grove in 2019.

Rosemary was a graduate of Mitchell High School in Chicago. She went on to become a DePaul University graduate.

Rosemary was a member of Christ the King Catholic Church in Lombard for 47 years, often serving as a eucharistic minister. She was an active member in the Widows and Widowers (WOW) support group.

Rosemary started working as a realtor for JW Reedy Lombard in 1983 and worked there for 20 years.

Rosemary was also an avid reader.

A Funeral Mass was held on Monday, June 23rd at Christ the King Catholic Church, 1501 S. Main Street, Lombard. Interment followed at Mount Carmel Cemetery, Hillside.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Christ the King Catholic Church, 1501 Main St., Lombard, Il 60148 or plant a tree in her name.

Info: www. brustfuneralhome.com or 888629-0094.

‘Concerts in the Park’ Lexington Square Memorial Park, 555 Foxworth Blvd., Lombard, 6 p.m. Thursday, June 26. Babette Dean; Thursday, July 24, Edizon Dayao; Thursday, Aug. 14, The Saddle Shoe Sisters. Call (630) 629-2900 to reserve your space.

Rep. Costa Howard collecting business clothing

The office of state Rep. Terra Costa Howard is collecting women’s business clothes now through June 30 to support Poised for Success, a Lombard-based nonprofit that provides businesswear at no charge to women who are transitioning back to work; new and like-new dresses,

suits, jackets, shoes, coats, and jewelry. Petite and plus sizes are especially welcome. To schedule a drop-off time or porch pick-up, you can email reptch42@gmail.com or call 630-812-9292. For more information on Poised For Success, visit poisedforsuccess. org.

School Supply Drive

State Rep. Diane Blair-Sherlock is collecting school supplies for local schools. Suggested supplies include, loose leaf paper, notebooks, pencils, clipboards, markers, erasers, glue sticks, folders, crayons, however all donations are welcome. Donations can be dropped off at her district office at 28 S. Villa Ave., Villa Park, through June 31.

Bensenville Park District targets July 4 opening for Water Park & Splash Pad

The Bensenville Park District is working diligently to open the Water Park & Splash Pad in time for the July 4 weekend, Executive Director Joseph C. Vallez announced in a letter to patrons last week.

After experiencing unforeseen and complex construction challenges with the pool basin, the district—following consultation with its Board of Park Commissioners, staff and contractors—is taking all necessary steps to open the facility as soon as possible.

“We know how meaningful this amenity is for families, especially during the height of summer, and we are fully committed to seeing it open,” Vallez said.

Until the Water Park is fully operational, the splash pad will remain open daily from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., weather permitting. Admission to the splash pad is free for in-district patrons, while the gen-

• West Nile

Nile virus-like symptoms.

West Nile virus is transmitted through the bite of a Culex mosquito, commonly called a house mosquito, that has picked up the virus by feeding on an infected bird. Common symptoms include fever, nausea, headache and muscle aches.

Symptoms may last from a few days to a few weeks.

Most people infected with West Nile virus will not show

• Services

eral public may enter for a nominal fee of $5.

Once open, the Water Park will operate seven days a week—an expansion from the originally planned Tuesday through Sunday schedule.

Additionally, the district plans to extend the Water Park season beyond its previously scheduled Aug. 10 closing date to provide more opportunities for the community to enjoy the facility.

Passholders continue to have the option of receiving a full refund or a prorated refund based on the number of days the park has been closed. Those seeking refunds are encouraged to contact the front desk.

The park district remains committed to completing all necessary repairs with the highest standards of quality and safety. Future updates regarding the opening timeline will be shared via the district’s official channels.

(Continued from page 3)

any symptoms; however, in rare cases it can lead to severe illness including paralysis, meningitis or encephalitis (i.e. brain and nerve infections), or even death. People older than 60 and those with weakened immune systems are at highest risk for severe illness. IDPH urges the public to Fight the Bite by practicing the three “R’s”—reduce, repel, and report:

• Reduce—make sure doors

(Continued from front page)

• New additions will increase the current building area by 148 percent, incorporating flexible spaces, expanded cat housing, a small animal room and a “Real-Life Room” that simulates the comforts and familiarity of home.

• Project substantially reduces stress on the animals by creating spaces to separate species and to allow for more indoor and outdoor exercise. Improvements will convert the current utilitarian appearance of the building (back side) to a more inviting community building, and im-

• Students

(Continued from front page)

migrant and Refugee Rights, said during an interview that the policy change has had a chilling effect on the immigrant community, making many afraid to even show up in school.

“We have seen a decline in student participation, particularly among heavily Latino schools after this inauguration,” he said. “So we want to make sure that schools are prepared in the events that federal agents, or for that matter other law enforcement, come to their door in a nonemergency situation.”

Tsao said advocates have also been concerned about possible changes in other legal protections for immigrant stu-

Fireball ‘dog days’ coming to White Pines

Who let the dogs out? Fireball did—straight onto the fairway to take the pressure off perfect swings and strict rules in a bid to help pros and hackers alike keep their eye on the [golf]ball—literally.

Say goodbye to country club snobbery and meet the Fireball Retrievers, four-legged “caddies” trained to sniff out and recover golfers’ cinnamon-scented Fireball golf balls when a tee shot or fairway swing sends them deep into the ruff.

Slice a shot? Who cares. Shake off the shame, sneak in a shot of Fireball in the trees, and maybe even earn a tail wag for your “effort.”

On June 27, leading U.S. shot brand Fireball is crashing the course at White Pines Golf Club in Bensenville, turning a casual day on the course into a rule-breaking adventure. Enter the Fireball Retrievers: a pack of elite canines trained to sniff out cinnamon-scented golf balls should a shot—or two—go rouge.

“Let’s admit it: golf can take itself a little too seriously at times. Imagine, you show up to the course thinking it’s going to be a chill day with friends—then one shanked shot later, you’re red-faced, and digging through the woods for your dignity (and your golf ball),” said Danny Suich, Global Brand Director for Fireball. “At Fireball, we don’t do boring. We don’t care about your scorecard. We’re here to help you toss the golf rule book in the trash and hand you the best caddy you’ve ever had—one who fetches your golf balls so you can focus on the shot that really matters—a shot of Fireball.”

Golfers can now book a round where your slice meets spice at the Fireball Hole—only at White Pines. Visit their standard reservation site at whitepinesgolf.com/teetimes to lock in your tee time.

dents that so far have only been expressed in judicial opinions.

In 1982, the U.S. Supreme Court struck down a Texas statute that authorized local school districts to either deny enrollment to children who had not been “legally admitted” to the United States, or to charge them tuition, holding the law violated the Equal Protection Clause of the 14th amendment. Tsao, however, said there have been attempts in other state legislatures, including earlier this year in Tennessee, to pass legislation that would challenge that 43-year-old ruling. And while the effort in the Tennessee legislature fell short this year, he said advocates in Illinois wanted to act now to

and windows have tight-fitting screens. Repair or replace screens that have tears or other openings. Try to keep doors and windows shut. Eliminate, or refresh each week, all sources of standing water where mosquitoes can breed, including water in bird baths, ponds, flowerpots, wading pools, old tires, and any other containers.

• Repel—when outdoors, wear shoes and socks, long

proved integration within the residential neighborhood.

Both the new adoption and relinquish areas are more accessible and inviting to visitors.

• Improves the conditions for health and safety of animals, staff, and visitors.

make sure the rights of immigrant students are protected in state law, should the Supreme Court precedent ever be overturned.

“Fortunately, our counterparts in Tennessee, the immigrant advocacy organizations and community leaders, bombarded the General Assembly with advocacy work and were able to persuade a number of legislators to vote against this legislation when it came down to it,” he said.

“But you know, that’s not to say that folks in Tennessee or folks in other states won’t try again.”

As of Wednesday, June 18, HB 3247 had not yet been sent to Gov. JB Pritzker.

pants and a light-colored, longsleeved shirt, and apply an EPA-registered insect repellent that contains DEET, picaridin, oil of lemon eucalyptus, IR 3535, para-menthane-diol (PMD), or 2-undecanone according to label instructions. Consult a physician before using repellents on infants.

• Report—report locations where you see water sitting stagnant for more than a week such as roadside ditches, flooded yards, and similar locations that may produce mosquitoes. The local health department or city government may be able to add larvicide to the water, which will kill any mosquito larvae.

On game day, participants will get a Fireball cinnamonscented golf ball to use at the designated hole. If the shot goes sideways, the FireBall Retrievers will hunt it down. Once they find the ball, they’ll sit and bark until the duffer arrives. No judgement. Just barks.

Already professionally trained in scent detection, these Golden Retrievers from Dog Training Elite pivoted their professional skills to take on the cinnamon fueled side hustle. Using scent drills and cinnamon-scented training aids, they’ve prepared for their latest mission: patrolling the course from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., while winning over unsuspecting golfers one sniff at a time.

Can’t swing by? No worries—you can still light up the golf course with your fore-legged friend! Starting June 27, limited-edition Fireball cinnamon-scented golf balls will be available at FireballWhisky.com/Retrievers for $1, the same suggested retail price as a Fireball shooter. Dog not included. Training tips from the pros at Dog Training Elite can also be found at FireballWhisky.com/Retrievers

Police Reports

The Addison and Bensenville police departments recently reported the following arrests and citations. Persons who are charged with domestic battery are not named in order to protect the victim’s privacy.

Readers are reminded that an arrest does not constitute a conviction, and that suspects are considered innocent unless proven guilty in a court of law. Juveniles age 17-or-younger are not named.

Addison

June 16

Mario F. Pitan Coc, 29, of Chicago, was charged with DUI, unlawful damage to a highway, unsafe equipment and transportation/carrying alcohol liquor by a driver near Wood Dale and Lake at 1:42 a.m.

June 15

Jose Olivos Morales, 22, of Lombard, was charged with DUI, improper lane usage, driving too fast for conditions and parking where prohibited.

Adelmiro C. Perez Lopez, 41, of Wood Dale, was charged with no valid driver’s license, leaving the scene of an accident and two counts of DUI near Army Trail and Route 53.

June 14

Marcos A. Villalobos, 51, of Addison, was charged with identity theft and a fictitious/ unlawful/altered ID in the 500 block of W. Fullerton at 8:39 p.m.

June 12

Jeremy D. Bartel, 41, of Chiago, was charged with two counts of burglary at 3:07

p.m.

Dylan J. Frosheiser, 25, of Pingree Grove, was charged with possession of a controlled substance and no child seatbelt at 10:30 a.m.

Bensenville

June 17, 2:11 a.m. near W Jefferson St. and S. Church Road, Sahil Shaikh, 27, was arrested for two counts of aggravated fleeing and eluding. BEPC2500439. June 14, 5:41 p.m. near W. Irving Park Road, police said Mikhaila Harrison, 26, of Bensenville, was arrested for an outstanding failure to appear warrant. BEPC2500432. June 14, 10:01 p.m. near N. Route 83 and Devon Avenue, Joaquin Hernandez, 44, of Bensenville, was arrested for two counts of DUI. BEPC2500434.

SUBMITTED PHOTO Rock Valley Publishing

The Bensenville Park District is aiming to reopen the Water Park & Splash Pad on Friday, July 4.

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!

CLUES ACROSS

1. Computer manufacturer

5. Noted space station

8. Kurt Russell film “Captain”

11. Automaton

13. Everyone has one

14. Incline from the vertical

15. Fights

16. Dunn & Bradstreet (abbr.)

17. Finishes off

18. Places to store things

20. Dutch painter Gerard __ 21. Smaller quantity

22. There’s a North, South and Central of these

25. In an early way

30. More spacious

31. Short-term memory

32. One who possesses

33. Sesame

38. Forbid

41. A way to explain

43. Not around

45. Evoke or suggest

47. Ancient kingdom near Dead Sea

49. Dekameter

50. Fencing sword

55. “Luther” actor Idris

56. Affirmative (slang)

57. Afflicted

59. One point north of northeast

60. Born of

61. Arabic name

62. Hong Kong food stall: __ pai dong

63. Not the start

64. Post

CLUES DOWN

1. Creative expression

2. Fiber from the outer husk of a coconut

3. City in ancient Syria

4. College army

5. More disturbed

6. Pays no attention to

7. Restored

8. Competitions

9. Lyric poems

10. Famed American lawman

12. Expression of disappointment 14. Scars 19. Satisfy

23. Central European river 24. Brass instrument

25. One who gets paid to perform 26. Propel with oars 27. Long period of time 28. Woman (French) 29. Type of plane 34. Pitching stat 35. Pointed end of a pen

36. Pro sports league

37. Body part

39. Inoffensive

40. Yellowish cotton cloth

41. Feline

42. Does not tell the truth

44. Set out to attract

45. Spiritual leader of a Jewish congregation

46. Abba __, Israeli politician

47. Repair

48. Genus of flowering plants

51. Tributary of the High Rhine

52. Prejudice

53. C. European river

54. Restrain

58. Father

DuPAGE DESTINATIONS

Can’t-miss events in and around the area

Editor’s note: If you have information on an event in Addison, Bensenville, Elmhurst, Lombard and Villa Park taking place that you would like us to consider listing here, please email that information to: news1@ rvpublishing.com.

Ongoing

North Suburban Carvers meetings

The North Suburban Carvers meet on the first and third Mondays of each month at the Wood Dale Public Library from 6:30-8:30 p.m. Anyone interested in carving, power carving, wood burning or special finishing techniques is welcome. North Suburban Carvers is a non-profit organization that promotes carving in the Chicago area. For more information, visit: northsurburbancarvers.com .org/calendar.aspx.

Thursday, June 26

Concerts in the Park

Lombard

Get ready for a night filled with rhythm, relaxation, and pure summer joy, starting June 26 and continuing July 24 and Aug. 14. Join us at Lexington Square Memorial Park for an unforgettable evening of music, community, and summer vibes under the open sky, starting at 6 p.m.! Bring a lawn chair or blanket and settle in for a night of rhythm, relaxation, and summer magic. Thursday, June 26, Babette; Thursday, July 24, Edizon Dayao; Thursday, Aug. 14, The Saddle Shoe Sisters. For more information, call 630-6292900.

Friday, June 27

Fourth Fridays concert series

Elmhurst

Presented free by the Elmhurst History Museum, 120 E. Park, at 7 p.m., at the museum’s new outdoor performance space, experience an eclectic lineup of concerts, from jazz and blues to bluegrass and salsa and cumbia music, on the

fourth Friday of each month. Chairs, blankets, coolers welcome.

Thursday, July 3

Rock ‘N Wheels

Addison Rock ‘N Wheels features food from local restaurants, free concerts, and children’s attractions. 6:30 p.m.— Lounge Puppets (Hair Band tribute); 8 p.m.—Big City Nights (Scorpions tribute). Fireworks finale approximately 9:45 p.m.

Addison Historical Museum open house 5:30-8 p.m., features craft and vintage fair. New memberships to the Historical Society receive a special gift. Special presentation: Eleanor Roosevelt, by Jessica Michna. The car show is located at Green Meadow Shopping Center in spots along Lake Street only. For more information, visit: www.ithappensinaddison. com.

The Taste of Oak Brook

Oak Brook

The Taste of Oak Brook will be held at the Village Sports Core Fields, 700 Oak Brook Road, starting at 4 p.m. Thursday, July 3. The annual celebration will

feature an impressive lineup of live music, exceptional cuisine, an exciting drone show, and a fireworks display following the drone show at around 9:30 p.m. For more information, visit: https:// www.oak-brook.org/813/ Taste-of-Oak-Brook-2025

Friday, July 4

Parades, fireworks and other events

Bensenville—Bensenville kicks off its Fourth of July celebration with its parade from downtown Bensenville to Redmond Park starting at 10 a.m. From downtown Bensenville, the parade travels east on Green Street, continues south on to York Road, turns east on Jefferson Street and finishes at the Redmond Recreational Complex. The parade features some of the best bands, floats, and entertainment from around the region. The celebration continues with the Bensenville Libertyfest at the Redmond Recreational Complex, 545 John St. from 6-9 p.m. Fireworks get under way at 9:30 p.m. Redmond Park just west of County Line Road between Jefferson Street and George Street, opens at 6 p.m., with a DJ

music, pony rides and petting zoo for the kids, and tasty options from incredible local food vendors. Additionally, Bella Vista Banquets will host a beer tent, selling various drinks.

Elmhurst 4 on the 4th. The Elmhurst Running Club’s 20th anniversary ‘4 on the 4th’ is a volunteerrun event. 80 percent of proceeds after-race expenses will be presented to local charities, which last year included the Elmhurst WalkIn Assistance Network, the Elmhurst Yorkfield Food Pantry and the Elmhurst Police Benevolent Athletic Association. The 4-mile run, which begins at 7:15 a.m., will be followed by a kids 1K race for ages 5-12

that will start at 8:20 a.m.

The races start and finish is at Elmhurst University on Prospect Avenue. For more information and to register, visit: https://www.4on4th.run

Glen Ellyn—The Fourth of July Parade will be in Downtown Glen Ellyn, starting at noon. The staging area will be surrounding Glenbard West High School. The parade will march westbound on Crescent Blvd. from the high school and continue northbound on Main Street, and continue east on Linden Street to Lake Ellyn Park. The annual fireworks display at Lake Ellyn, 645 Lenox Road, Glen Ellyn, starts at dusk. No sparklers or candles are to be lit at the park. No

blankets are allowed on Lake Ellyn Park until the park opens on July 4th at 6 a.m. Do not use rocks or stakes to hold blankets down and they should not be laid on landscape plants.

Lombard—The Village of Lombard will be hosting a fireworks display on Friday, July 4th at Madison Meadow Park. The fireworks show will begin at dusk (approximately 9:30 p.m.), or when the sky is completely dark. In the event of inclement weather, the event time may be adjusted or rescheduled. Be sure to check the village website and social media pages for any updates.

Worship Services Directory

Berean Bible Students Church 535 East Maple Street Lombard, IL 60148 (630) 889-1090 www.bbschurch.org

Worship God and learn more about Him with us.

535 East Maple Street Lombard, IL 60148

Sunday Worship starts at 10:00 am and is followed by a Message. Sunday Bible Study starts at 11:30 am

(630) 889-1090

www.bbschurch.org

For more information you can reach us at 630-889-1090 or visit our website at www.bbschurch.org.

630-832-8457

Worship with Us!

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

“The Crucial Hours”

Second Lenten Service March 9, 2022

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

Third Lenten Service

Adult Bible Study Wednesdays after Service Saturday, June 28, Game Night at 4 pm 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

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

Welcome to ST. PIUS X CATHOLIC COMMUNITY Diocese of Joliet

Rev. Tom Nicholson “They Bound Him” Resurrection, Aurora John 18:12

SUNDAY MASS SCHEDULE

SATURDAY: 5:00 PM (VIGIL MASS) 7:00 PM (ESPAÑOL)

Sixth Lenten Service April 6, 2022

Rev. Phil Schupmann “The Semblance of Legality” Resurrection, Aurora Luke 22:66

SUNDAY: 8:00 AM & 10:00 AM

WEEKDAY MASS SCHEDULE

MONDAY - FRIDAY & FIRST SATURDAY: 8:30 AM

Maundy Thursday Communion 7 p.m., April 14

ADORATION OF THE BLESSED SACRAMENT - PRAYER CHAPEL

MONDAY - THURSDAY 7:00 PM - 9:00 PM

Good Friday Tenebrae 7 p.m., April 15

SACRAMENT OF RECONCILIATION ( ENGLISH & ESPAÑOL)

SATURDAY: 3:30 PM - 4:30 PM OR BY APPOINTMENT

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

Parish Office: 1025 E. Madison Street • (630) 627-4526 • www.stpiuslombard.org

Easter Breakfast 8 a.m., April 17

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

Weekend Masses: Saturday: 4 PM (Vigil) Sunday: 7:30, 9:30 & 11:30 AM and 6 PM

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

Daily Masses: Monday—Friday: 6:15 and 8:15 AM Saturday: 8:15 AM

Confessions: Saturday: 3-3:45PM

Confessions: Saturday: 3-3:45PM

Sports

The Waves pile up victories during their meet against Hanover Park

Two Lombard swimmers are four-time individual champions in the meet; seven other Waves are three-time winners

The Lombard Waves dominated Saturday’s meet against the Hanover Park Sailfish at Paradise Bay Water Park. The Waves defeated the Sailfish 460-110 in the meet, which took place in sunny and extremely hot conditions.

Lombard’s Daniel Petrine won four individual events in the 9-10 boys division on Saturday. He earned his first win of the day in the 50-yard freestyle, which he completed in 41.01 seconds, and added victories in the 100-yard freestyle (which he finished in 1 minute, 36.19 seconds), the 50-yard backstroke (50.63) and the 50-yard breaststroke (1:04.65).

Ruby Wilson-Dierich also won four individual titles for the Waves during Saturday’s meet against Hanover Park. Competing in the 11-12 girls level, she won the 100-yard individual medley (1:24.46), the 100-yard freestyle (1:15.90), the 50-yard butterfly (38.87) and the 50-yard breaststroke (43.50).

The Waves’ three-time individual champions in the meet included Samson Norman, who delivered his firstplace swims in the 25-yard freestyle (24.45), the 25-yard butterfly (43.56) and the 25yard breaststroke (43.34) in the 8-and-under boys division.

Tahlia Santarromana of Lombard won three races in the 9-10 girls level on Saturday. She won the 50-yard freestyle (38.78), the 50-yard backstroke (49.81) and the 50-yard breaststroke (52.85).

Emily Olsen delivered three individual victories for the Waves in the 13-14 girls level. She won the 100-yard individual medley (1:16.36), the 50-yard butterfly (34.50) and the 50-yard breaststroke (38.65).

Marco Garavito won three individual titles for Lombard on Saturday. Swimming in the 13-14 boys division, he won the 50-yard freestyle (27.41),

the 100-yard individual medley (1:10.16) and the 100-yard freestyle (1:03.21).

Kaylee Brown of the Waves provided three victories in the 15-18 girls level. She won the 50-yard freestyle (31.22), the 100-yard individual medley (1:21.22) and the 50-yard backstroke (36.72).

Alyssa Wiemerslage of Lombard also won three races in the 15-18 girls division on Saturday. After winning the 100-yard freestyle (1:06.23), she added victories in the 50yard butterfly (34.34) and the 50-yard breaststroke (42.13).

Mason McKenna of the Waves swam to three individual wins against Hanover Park. He won the 100-yard individual medley (1:05.08), the 50-yard butterfly (26.91) and the 50-yard backstroke (29.69) in the 15-18 boys division.

Lombard’s two-time individual champions in Saturday’s meet included Amelia Ali of the 8-and-under girls level. She won the 25-yard freestyle (23.67) and the 25yard breaststroke (29.19).

Avery Norman of the Waves also won two individual titles in the 8-and-under girls level. She earned her victories in the 25-yard butterfly (18.36) and the 25-yard backstroke (19.81).

Hannah Rogers of the Waves won two races in the 11-12 girls division on Saturday. She won the 50-yard freestyle (38.00) and the 50yard backstroke (42.85).

Lombard’s other individual champions on Saturday included:

8-and-under girls: Claire Wedel (50-yard freestyle; 44.86)

8-and-under boys: Jack Allen (50-yard freestyle; 1:33.80) and Uthman Siddiqui (25-yard backstroke; 44.66) 9-10 girls: Molly Thompson (100-yard individual medley; 2:03.30) and Josephine Zeithammel (50-yard butterfly; 56.87)

The Lombard Waves defeated the Hanover Park Sailfish 460-110 in Saturday’s meet at Paradise Bay Water Park. Lombard’s standout swimmers in the meet included Daniel Petrine, who won four individual events in the 9-10 boys level. He is pictured (above left) during his victory in the 50-yard backstroke. Alyssa Wiemerslage of the Waves won three individual events in the 15-18 girls division on Saturday. She is pictured (bottom right) during her first-place swim in the 50-yard butterfly. Lombard’s Samson Norman, who won three races in the meet’s 8-and-under boys level, is shown (above right) during his victory in the 25-yard butterfly. Hannah Rogers, who won two individual events for the Waves on Saturday, is pictured (below) during her triumph in the 11-12 girls level’s 50-yard backstroke.

11-12 boys: Miles Wilson-Dierich (50-yard freestyle; 32.89), Evan McNulty (100-yard individual medley; 1:44.94), Cooper Wedel (100yard freestyle; 1:22.00), Joshua Massengale (50-yard butterfly; 45.25), Luke Bolotin (50-yard backstroke; 44.34) and Javier Garavito (50-yard breaststroke; 49.91)

13-14 girls: Emily Reichert (50-yard freestyle; 30.78), Kelsey Plis (100-yard freestyle; 1:14.36) and Cate Ford (50-yard backstroke; 40.47)

13-14 boys: Connor Wedel (50-yard butterfly; 34.12) and Nathaniel Petkus (50-yard breaststroke; 43.28)

Lombard’s 15-18 girls foursome of Kaylee Brown, Jade De Anda, Alyssa Wiemerslage and Emmy Gzamouranis won two relay races on Saturday. The four Waves won the 200-yard medley relay (2:26.97) and the 200-yard freestyle relay

Mariners earn a home victory over Butterfield

The Villa Park Mariners defeated the Butterfield Bullfrogs 393-185 in Saturday’s meet at Jefferson Pool.

Ian Mueller of Villa Park won four individual events during the meet, which took place in hot and breezy conditions. Swimming in the 15-18 boys level, he won the 50-meter freestyle in a first-place time of 30.58 seconds. After winning the 100-meter indi-

vidual medley (in 1 minute, 23.37 seconds), he raced to victories in the 50-meter butterfly (37.26) and the 50-meter breaststroke (38.37).

(2:06.78).

Lombard won a total of 15 relay events during Saturday’s meet.

Three days before facing Hanover Park, the Waves traveled to Bartlett to compete against the Barracudas. Bartlett edged the Waves 323-284 in the June 18 meet.

Lombard’s season continues with this week’s meets against Glendale Heights and Itasca. The Waves will compete against the Dolphins of Itasca this Saturday, June 28, at Paradise Bay Water Park.

Lombard will finish its regular season in the DuPage Swim and Dive Conference with a home meet against the Villa Park Mariners on Wednesday, July 2.

The Mariners’ three-time individual champions in Saturday’s meet against Butterfield included Ethan Aldana, who won three races in the 8-and-under boys level. He delivered first-place swims in the 50-meter freestyle (53.47), the 25-meter butterfly (35.37) and the 25-meter backstroke (35.51).

Villa Park’s Penelope Kuhl provided three individual wins in the 9-10 girls level. She earned those wins in the 100-meter individual medley (1:40.14), the 100-meter freestyle (1:29.36) and the 50-meter butterfly (47.01).

See MARINERS, Page 14

Chris Fox photos Rock Valley Publishing

The Villa Park Mariners beat the Butterfield Bullfrogs 393-185 in Saturday morning’s meet at Jefferson Pool. Ian Mueller of the Mariners won four individual events in the meet’s 15-18 boys level. He is pictured (above) during his victory in the 50-meter breaststroke. Villa Park’s Penelope Kuhl, who won three individual events in the meet’s 9-10 girls level, also moved up an age group to swim on two winning relay teams in the 11-12 girls division. She is pictured (top left) while swimming on the Mariners’ victorious foursome in the 200-meter freestyle relay. Ruth Aldana also swam on both of Villa Park’s winning 11-12 girls relay teams on Saturday, and she earned an individual win in that level’s 100-meter freestyle race. She is pictured (left) during the 200-meter freestyle relay.

• Mariners

(Continued from page 13)

Lydia Aldana of the Mariners won three races in the 11-12 girls division on Saturday. She placed first in the 100-meter individual medley (1:29.26), the 50-meter butterfly (41.12) and the 50-meter breaststroke (44.16).

Naomi Aldana contributed three individual victories in Villa Park’s win over the Bullfrogs. After winning the 100-meter individual medley (1:17.28) on Saturday, she turned in first-place efforts in the 100-meter freestyle (1:08.68) and the 50-meter butterfly (33.32).

The Mariners’ two-time individual champions in Saturday’s meet included Madeline Dahm, who won the 25-meter freestyle (25.04) and the 25-meter butterfly (34.75) in the 8-and-under girls level. Villa Park’s Tre Tarsitano won the 50-meter butterfly (1:24.94) and the 50-meter backstroke (1:11.40) in the 9-10 boys division. Caleb Vaughan delivered wins in the 50-meter freestyle (35.30) and the 100-meter individual medley (1:34.97) in the 11-12 boys level.

Three of the Mariners’ twotime individual champions in Saturday’s meet competed in the 13-14 boys division. Those Villa Park swimmers included Chris Spears, who won the 50-meter freestyle (41.59) and the 100-meter freestyle (1:42.31); Alex Carson, who claimed victories in the 100-meter individual medley (1:52.35) and the

50-meter butterfly (49.96); and Ryan Mueller, who posted first-place finishes in the 50-meter backstroke (54.60) and the 50-meter breaststroke (54.36).

Villa Park’s individual winners in Saturday’s meet also included:

8-and-under boys: Kingston Kuhl (25-meter freestyle; 28.62) and Matthew Kelley-Tellez (25-meter breaststroke; 39.48)

9-10 girls: Mattie MacDonald (50-meter backstroke; 1:08.10)

9-10 boys: Logan Turner (100-meter individual medley; 2:09.37)

11-12 girls: Ariana Knudtson (50-meter freestyle; 42.17) and Ruth Aldana (100-meter freestyle; 1:29.62)

11-12 boys: Cillian Connolly (50-meter butterfly; 51.14)

13-14 girls: Maddie Bousum (50-meter freestyle; 43.93), Belle Knudtson (50-meter backstroke; 48.61) and Phoebe Aldana (50-meter breaststroke; 41.88)

15-18 boys: Ryan King (100-meter freestyle; 1:14.84) and Thomas Tyler (50-meter backstroke; 1:00.99)

Villa Park’s 8-and-under boys foursome of Kingston Kuhl, Brycen Newell, Ethan Aldana and Matthew Kelley-Tellez won two relay events against Butterfield.

The four Mariners won the 100-meter medley relay (2:32.09) and 100-meter freestyle relay (2:06.60) in their

level.

In addition to winning three individual events for the Mariners in the 9-10 girls level of Saturday’s meet, Penelope Kuhl moved up an age level to join Ariana Knudtson, Lydia Aldana and Ruth Aldana on a pair of winning relay teams in the 11-12 girls division. The quartet won the 200-meter medley relay (3:05.04) early in the meet.

Near the end of the meet, the same four Mariners won the 200-meter freestyle relay (2:42.36).

Villa Park’s 13-14 girls foursome of Belle Knudtson, Phoebe Aldana, Brooke Turner and Maddie Bousum won the 200-meter medley relay (2:57.69) and the 200-meter freestyle relay (2:30.57) on Saturday.

The Mariners’ 13-14 boys quartet of Gabriel Clark, Ryan Mueller, Alex Carson and Chris Spears earned two relay wins against Butterfield. The four Villa Park swimmers won the 200-meter medley relay (3:25.64) and the 200-meter freestyle relay (3:04.40). The Mariners were scheduled to face the Wood Dale/ Addison team in Wood Dale on June 18, but that meet was rained out.

Villa Park’s 2025 season continues with this week’s meets against Woodridge and Roselle. The Mariners will conclude their DuPage Swim and Dive Conference regular season with a July 2 meet at Lombard.

Chris Fox photos Rock Valley Publishing

Pritzker signs $55.1 billion state budget reliant on $700 million of new taxes

Largest budget in state history despite cuts and freezes

By Ben Szalinski CaPitOl news illinOis

Gov. JB Pritzker signed Illinois’ fiscal year 2026 budget into law last week, taking shots at President Donald Trump’s budget management to defend hard choices state lawmakers were forced to make this year.

The $55.1 billion spending plan set to take effect July 1 is the largest in state history and is supported by $55.3 billion in anticipated revenue, including more than $700 million in new taxes and more than $500 million in one-time revenues.

Democrats approved the budget shortly before midnight on May 31 with only a handful of Democrats opposing it and all Republicans unanimously voting against it.

The budget’s passage came after months of discussion about closing an initially projected $3 billion deficit and growing concerns about Trump’s treatment of state funding in Washington. Pritzker, a possible 2028 presidential candidate, used Monday’s budget signing ceremony in Chicago as an opportunity to draw a contrast between his and Trump’s budgets.

“While the Trump administration goes on Fox News lying about being fiscally responsible, Illinois is showing a better way: Balancing the budget while maintaining the programs that most people rely on,” Pritzker said.

“Congress is about to pass a federal budget that has one of the largest budget deficits ever in a year without a war or a pandemic. By contrast, Illinois is balancing its budget and prudently improving its fiscal condition,” he said.

Pritzker and other Democratic leaders acknowledged that crafting the FY26 budget was challenging but continues to make investments Democrats believe are priorities. Discretionary spending will increase by less than 1 percent in FY26, Pritzker said. Despite the minimal increase, the FY26 budget still spends about $2 billion more than FY25.

Democrats “ace the challenges and uncertainty head on, and the result is a budget that is truly balanced with no gimmicks,” House Speaker Chris Welch, D-Hillside, said.

But that’s not how Republicans view the budget’s fund sweeps and delayed transfers that free up hundreds of millions of dollars that can be used in FY26.

“This approach sets Illinois up for failure by FY27 and continues a pattern of short-term thinking,” House Minority Leader Tony McCombie, R-Savanna, said in a statement.

Senate Minority Leader John Curran, R-Downers Grove, condemned lawmakers for failing to deliver significant tax cuts since Pritzker took office in 2019 when Illinois’ budget totaled about $40 billion.

“You know it’s a bad budget when it’s based on nearly $1 billion in tax increases and enhancements,” he said in a statement.

The governor also used his broad authority to reduce a pair of technical errors in the budget. The changes lower spending by $161.2 million from what lawmakers passed.

Tax increases on tobacco and vape products, businesses

The tax plan will raise $709 million in new revenue through what House Ma-

Coming events

Cantigny events

Thursday, July 3: Sensory Cocktail Experiences: Elevate your evening with a Sensory Cocktail-Making Experience that combines creativity, flavor, and indulgence. Immerse yourself in a multisensory journey where all 5 senses come together to create unforgettable cocktails, led by Cantigny’s own Mixologist and Executive Chef. (21+ event).

Saturday, July 12: Rockin’ for our Vets Charity Concert with Gary Sinise and the Lt. Dan Band, supporting local veterans and their families. Visit Cantigny.org for more information.

Plum Library programs

Sunday Music Series: Katie Kostner Sunday, June 29, at 2 p.m. Enjoy an afternoon of music with Chicagoland musician Katie Kostner. Known for her blend of pop, rock, and country music, Ka-

jority Leader Robyn Gabel, D-Evanston, characterized as “smart new sources of revenue.” They include new taxes on businesses, sports betting and tobacco and vape products, according to a list provided by the Senate Democratic caucus.

The budget will not raise personal income, corporate income or sales taxes after Pritzker told reporters that he will veto any budget containing “broad-based” tax increases just days before the bill passed.

The largest sum of new taxes, $336 million, are on businesses outside of Illinois that lawmakers call “leveling the playing field” and will require businesses to pay more income tax to the state on their profits.

Consumers will face new taxes on specific items, including taxes on tobacco, vaping and other nicotine products, which are increasing to 45 percent to raise $50 million. An existing telecommunications tax will also rise from 7 percent to 8.65 percent and raise $49 million to fund the statewide 988 hotline.

A new tax on sports bets will charge betting sites 25 cents for the first 20 million wagers and 50 cents for each bet following that. It’s projected to raise $36 million. Sports betting sites FanDuel and DraftKings have both announced they will implement 50-cent transaction fees on Illinois customers in response to the tax.

Short-term rentals will have to begin paying the state’s hotel operator’s tax. The charge is already applied to hotels in the state, and Airbnb already pays it voluntarily, but more companies like Vrbo will now

be required to pay the tax expected to raise an additional $10 million.

A pair of tax amnesty programs are expected to raise $228 million. Those programs are meant to incentivize taxpayers to pay overdue taxes. The budget deploys a series of tactics designed to free up more money for spending in the general fund in FY26 without repeating as a revenue source for the following

year’s budget. It suspends the monthly transfer to the “rainy day” fund for one year, freeing up $45 million for general fund use. Pritzker has taken pride in the fund’s increase in recent years as it’s grown to a balance of $2.3 billion, up from less than $60,000 when he took office. The fund is still estimated to grow by $161 million from interest and contributions from other funds in FY26.

The state will also pause the final transfer of motor fuel sales tax revenue to the road fund in order to free up $171 million. That scheduled transfer was set in motion by the state’s 2019 infrastructure plan, with the sales tax supporting bond debt taken out to complete road and bridge projects. This year was to be the final year of incremental transfers that took place over the past five years.

Montini Catholic announces Class of 2025 Academic All-Stars

Montini Catholic High School rolled out the red carpet last month to honor its Class of 2025 Academic All-Stars. Each year, Montini seniors who have excelled academically throughout their high school years are invited to a celebratory banquet in their honor. A total of 50 students in the school’s Class of 2025 achieved the honor of being named a Montini Academic All-Star, which involves attaining a 3.95+ GPA and/or earning Illinois State Scholar status. Pictured left to right are: (front row) Liliana Cruz, Annalee DeFeo (Lombard), Naomy Gonzalez, Annika Bartell, Valentina Serna, Gianna Parrilli, Isabella Greco, Jamie Loftus (Lombard), Roberto Soto and Chris Reyes. Second row: Chris Zayed (Lombard), Audrey Kinney, Lauren Jaskier (Lombard), Liliana Aumann, Hannah Bushati, Lily Spanos, Julia Gergen (Lombard), Sierra Urban, Josh Brunke (Lombard), Isabella Jaojoco, Matthew Silveyra and Ruikun Li. Third row: Collins Whitfield, Jaxon Lane, Santino Florio, Payton Atkins, Maria Bednarczyk (Lombard), Margaret Nielsen (Lombard), Jackson Simek and Sean Hubeny.

Back row: Peyton Farrell, Isabel Evenson (Villa Park), Sienna Skarda, Jack Barrett (Villa Park), Hayden Surrette, Wyatt Prater, Jimmy Fitzpatrick (Lombard), Conor Kaefer (Lombard), Daniel Sherman, Adrian Polaszewski (Lombard) and Nicholas Sheeran.

The Academic All-Stars who aren’t pictured include Seoyeon Park (Lombard).

tie has been featured on WGN news and has performed the National Anthem for the Chicago White Sox. Register at helenplum.org or by calling 630-627-0316. Alzheimer’s Disease and Dementia Resource Drop-in

Wednesday, July 2 from 4-6 p.m. Drop in and learn about the signs and symptoms of dementia vs. normal aging, tips for having a conversation with your doctor, caregiver resources, and more. Rush Alzheimer’s Disease Community Engagement Coordinator, Leann Donovan, will be here to answer your questions. No registration required.

Summer food drive

Members of the St. Vincent de Paul Conference at Sacred Heart will be holding a Summer Food Drive. The food drive will be completely hands free for those coming to donate food or money. There

will be drive thru lanes where volunteers will pick up contributions from your vehicle. When: Saturday, July 12, 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. in the church parking lot, 114 S. Elizabeth St., Lombard. Business donations are also welcome. Contact Dennis Jensen at 630-346-0062 for more information.

Art at the Peck

Looking for a fun and creative way to spend your summer afternoons? Come get crafty at Art @ the Peck, happening every Tuesday now to Aug. 5, noon to 3 p.m. Each week, we’ll dive into handson art projects inspired by the historic Peck Homestead, the beauty of nature, and the adventures of pioneer life. Whether you’re a curious kid, a creative teen or a crafty adult, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Visit lombardhistory. org for more information.

DuPage County, SCARCE Award Sustainable Design Challenge top prizes

During its meeting in May, the DuPage County Stormwater Management Committee presented awards to winning student groups chosen from this year’s 19th annual Sustainable Design Challenge. Awards went to one team from Lake Park High School and two teams from Glenbard East High School.

“Year after year, the Challenge showcases the ingenuity of our youth, and this year was no different,” said DuPage County Stormwater Management Committee Chair Jim Zay. “The students keep raising the bar, and I am proud to recognize the achievement of these top teams.”

Sponsored by DuPage County Stormwater Management, SCARCE coordinates the annual event, which encourages students to construct

building and landscape models using environmental and water-friendly design practices.

Local professionals working in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) fields served as judges, evaluating the students’ designs, presentations, and innovation.

The winning groups were:

• Best Overall LEED Design: Rylan Bauerfreund, Lily Farsalas, Ashley Mallqui, George Moore—Lake Park High School.

• Best Stormwater Design: Kallen Reinheimer, Norman Loechel, Charlie Cooper, David Salgado—Glenbard East High School.

Students featured energy sources such as solar panels and wind turbines, and water conservation elements such as native plant landscaping, rain barrels and other green infrastructure for stormwater management.

To learn more about the Sustainable Design Challenge, visit https://www. scarce.org/sustainable-design/.

• Best Energy Design: Emma Carneiro, Jade Dhamers, Leila Fase, Ryan Kropidlowski—Glenbard East High School. Student groups participated in the annual Sustainable Design Challenge on April 15 at DuPage County’s JTK Administration Building. Competitors presented models of their landscape and building designs and explained the various elements that saved energy, preserved the environment and contributed to sustainability goals.

submitted PHOtO Rock Valley Publishing

Section B – Vendor Payments of $2,500 or more 120WaterAudit LLC, 18532; 3M Company, 13310; 701E22 Investors LLC, 6200; 7th Heaven Band, LLC, 6300; A&W Trailer LLC, 59630; ABB Inc, 13022; Absolute Software, Inc, 6000; Acme Truck Brake & Supply Co, 6644; Action Fence Contractors Inc, 4955; Advanced Cleaning Systems Inc, 32874; AEP Energy, 62259; Affiliated Customer Service Inc, 5054; AFSCME Council 31, 15535; AI Warren Oil Co, 400829; Air One Equipment Inc, 53335; Alden Pool & Municipal Supply Co, 3617; Alert All Corp, 5444; Alexander Equipment Co Inc, 6380; All Plumbing & Sewer Service, 52259; Allied Garage Door Inc, 5810; Altorfer Industries Inc, 4424; Amalgamated Bank Of Chicago, 1066000; Amazon Capital Services Inc, 43578; Amazon PD Account, 16452; Andres Medical Billing Ltd, 11828; Andy Frain Services, 117236; Anomaly Video, 15450; Aqua Backflow Inc, 21432; Aquafix Inc, 20458; Armor D2 LLC, 147940; Arthur J Gallagher Risk Management Services, 464265; Ascensus, 16200; AT&T, 6275; Atlas Bobcat LLC, 5155; Axon Enterprise Inc, 61477; B & F Construction Code Services Inc, 110329; Baker Tilly US, LLP, 4000; Barnacle Parking Enforcement, 5350; Barricade Lites Inc, 27987; Baxter & Woodman Inc, 233912; Beary Landscape Management Inc, 138790; Bedrock Earthscapes LLC, 21940; Best Technology Systems Inc, 3275; BESTCO HARTFORD, 138816; Blas, Mark, 5000; Blasi, Mark, 5000; Blooming Color, Inc, 4003; BOS, 14796; Bound Tree Medical, 9267; Bradford Lombard 1 LLC, 291304; Braniff Communications, 11214; Brothers Asphalt Paving, Inc., 1609925; Burke LLC, 85616; CCMSI, 944345; CDW Government, 37737; Cedar Path Nurseries LLC, 2750; Cellebrite Inc, 6100; Chicago Communications LLC, 16418; Chicago Parts & Sound Enterprises LLC, 5658; Chicago Testing Laboratory Inc, 13901; Chicago Title Ins Co, 169035; Chivilo, James & Kate, 5117; Choose DuPage, 5000; Christopher B Burke Eng LTD, 492780; Cintas First Aid & Safety, 7675; Cintas Uniform #769, 6387; Citadel Information Management, 8853; Citizenserve, 50700; City of Naperville, 17747; CivicPlus, 37164; Civiltech Engineering Inc, 237731; Clark Baird Smith LLP, 39339; Clarke Envir Mosquito Mgmt Inc, 68280; CMFP Chicago Metro Fire Prevention Co, 3191; College of DuPage #502, 71119; Comcast Cable, 45031; ComEd, 141937; Commission on Accreditation Law Enforcement CALEA, 4695; Concentric Integration LLC, 3735; Conrad Polygraph, 4209; Constellation New Energy Inc, 159839; Continental Courier Solutions Inc, 6208; Core & Main LP, 109664; Cummins Sales & Service, 154842; Currie Motors, 126937; Cybor Fire Protection Company, 21530; D Ryan Tree & Landscape Service LLC, 77724; Dacra Tech LLC, 25046; Daily Herald, 4442; DataProse LLC, 93886; Decker Supply Company Inc, 3759; Dell Marketing LP, 112061; Denler Inc, 158360; Dept of In-

VILLAGE OF LOMBARD - TREASURER’S REPORT - SECTION A SUMMARY OF REVENUES BY SOURCE - ALL FUNDS For the Fiscal Year Ended December 31, 2024

novation & Technology, 11309; District 44 Lombard School, 843983; DLT Solutions LLC, 6835; Don Wilk & Karen Worthington, 6208; Downtown Lombard Business Alliance, 6369; DreamSeats LLC, 4365; DroneSense Inc, 4600; Dukes Root Control Inc, 181827; DuPage Airport Authority, 2813; DuPage Co Childrens Center, 4000; DuPage Co Div of Transportation, 243000; DuPage Co Government Center, 3750; DuPage Co Recorder, 3850; DuPage Co Treasurer, 32085; DuPage Conv & Visitors Bureau, 164297; DuPage Materials Co, 194912; DuPage Mayors & Managers, 39406; DuPage MERIT, 6500; DuPage Public Safety Communications DuComm, 1218594; DuPage River Salt Creek Workgroup, 5417; DuPage Senior Citizens Council, 25000; DuPage Water Commission, 7262347; Dynegy Energy Services, 183614; Eaton Corporation, 8037; Elmhurst Occupational Health, 46971; Emergency Telephone System Board , 92595; Emery Law, Ltd., 4000; EMS Management & Consultants Inc, 67725; Energenecs Inc, 19773; Engblom, Gloria & Marty, 5000; Engineering Resource Association Inc, 42790; Environmental Aquatic Mgmt LLC, 23880; Enz USA Inc, 9320; ESO Solutions Inc, 13385; ESRI, 38500; Everbridge Inc, 14686; Fiduciary Trust Company of New Hampshire, 28908; Finkbiner Equipment Company, 6120; Fire House Innovations LI Inc, 9080; Fireground Supply, 5714; First Bankcard/FNBO, 451276; First Out Rescue Equipment LLC, 2737; Fleet Safety Supply, 34455; Flock Safety Group Inc, 70649; FlowMSP, Inc, 5400; FOP #270, 40512; FOP #270_1, 5029; Forbel Alarms Inc, 3566; Forest Preserve District of DuPage Cty Treasurer, 23523; Frontline Public Safety Solutions, 6088; Frost Solutions LLC, 6000; G & M Cement Const Inc, 949134; Galls LLC, 41056; Gasaway Distributors Inc, 3150; Getty, James & Mary, 3642; Gewalt Hamilton Associates Inc, 52653; Glenbard Auto Body, 8806; Glenbard Township HS Dist #87, 507740; Glenbard Wastewater Authority, 5172378; Globe Construction Inc, 394634; Godoy Snow Removal Inc, 20857; GovTempsUSA LLC, 5642; Grainger, 14561; Granicus Inc, 54115; Graybar Electric Company Inc, 15110; Great Lakes Concrete LLC, 8140; Grimco, 2964; Groot Industries Inc, 6228; GS PlantOptics LLC, 8310; H&H Electric Co, 14699; Haggerty Ford, 204940; Handtevy, 5905; Hard Rock Concrete Cutters, Inc, 26242; Hayes, Andrew, 5000; Hays, Joshua A, 4314; Heather Ryan Law Ltd, 6646; Helen M Plum Memorial Library, 197396; Henry Schein Inc, 8856; Heritage Cadillac Inc, 178000; Hervas, Condon & Bersani, PC, 8543; HFS Bureau of Fiscal Operations , 1407636; Hobbs, Matthew, 4350; Holstein’s Garage, 4199; Homer Industries, 12750; Homer Tree Care Inc, 82938; Honda on Grand, 36836; HP Lilac Station LLC, 421766; I/O Solutions Inc, 4739; Icon Group, 10107; IL Dept Of Employment Security, 15803; IL Dept Of Revenue, 1084833; IL Dept Of Transportation IDOT, 198287; IL Munic-

ipal League, 2500; IL Municipal Retirement Fund, 2077839; IL Section American Water Works Association, 3358; IL State Disbursement Unit, 98349; IL Tactical Officers Assoc, 4635; IL Workers’ Compensation Commission, 6078; Illinois Environmental Protection Agency (IEPA), 912383; Illinois Phlebotomy Services LLC, 24550; Illinois Public Risk Fund (IPRF), 677353; Illinois State Police Asset Forfeiture Section, 29100; Imperial Surveillance Inc, 54605; Industrial Systems Ltd, 6057; Infinite, 3500; Infosense, Inc, 81843; Infrared Roofing Technologies LLC, 10060; Inlad Truck And Van Equipment, 3582; Integrated Building Automation, 82580; Intergovernmental Personnel Benefit Cooperative, 5098604; Internal Revenue Service, 4744766; Interstate Batteries of Southwest Chicago, 13869; Interstate Power Systems Inc, 6327; Intl Payment Solutions LLC, 9239; J G Uniforms Inc, 3648; Jefferson Fire & Safety Inc, 11694; John Neri Const. Co Inc, 629657; Johnson, Paul & Diana, 5000; JSN Contractors Supply, 7659; Julie Corp, 6726; JX Peterbilt, 454859; Kenig Lindgren Ohara Aboona, 12549; Kentwood Office Furniture Inc, 2899; Khan, Mishaal, 5200; Kimco USA Inc, 75161; Klein Thorpe & Jenkins Ltd, 222004; Konica Minolta Business Solutions USA Inc, 11792; Konica Minolta Premier Finance, 39640; Krese, Michael, 4856; Krueger International Inc, 49682; Kyo Ramen & Poke Bowl, 102037; LA Exteriors Inc, 102752; Land’s End Business Outfitters, 3354; Lauman, Kristin, 8250; Lauterbach & Amen LLP, 74225; Law Enforcement Training LLC, 3250; Law Office of Michelle L Moore , 115558; LeadsOnline LLC, 11967; Leahy Wolf Company, 16310; Lexipol LLC, 33249; LexisNexis, 4746; Lilac Parade Committee, 20505; Lima Contractors Inc, 1400991; LiveView Technologies Inc, 29491; LMK Enterprises Inc, 6944; Lombard Ace Hardware, 11449; Lombard Firefighters Local Union 3009, 216774; Lombard Firemens Pension Fund, 2687819; Lombard Historical Society, 179700; Lombard Juniors Philanthropic Fund, 11561; Lombard Park District, 102671; Lombard Police Pension Fund, 2743457; Lombard Public Facilities Corp, 1201985; Lombard Veterinary Hospital, 50735; Ludy, Nick, 3737; MABAS , 6785; MacQueen Emergency Group, 1678548; Mad Bomber Fireworks, 47500; Magnuski, Mitchell, 5323; Martam Construction Inc, 20300; McCann Industries Inc, 70079; McGovern, Valeria, 5000; McIntire Management Group, 3800; Meade Electric Co Inc, 162797; MECO Consulting Group LLC, 12800; Medcor Inc, 7063; Melaniphy & Associates , Inc., 8000; Merchants’ Credit Guide Co., 4223; Mercury Medical, 11553; Meridian Rapid Defense Group LLC, 69730; MGT of America Consulting LLC, 113944; MI State Disbursement Unit (MiSDU), 4744; Microsystems Inc, 38024; Mid American Water Inc, 60201; Midwest Paving Equipment Inc, 38292; MissionSquare, 992140; MitoGrow LLC, 7114; Morbark LLC, 85501; Morrison Associates Ltd, 4575; Morton Salt

Inc, 185694; Municipal Claims and Safety Agreement (MCSA), 3780; Municipal Emergency Services, 62980; Muratalla, Santiago, 2883; Nagel Trucking & Material Inc, 19054; Napa Auto Parts, 26845; Nationwide Retirement Solution, 496809; Natl Power Rodding Corp, 3200; NCPERS Group Life Ins, 4832; NewGen Strategies and Solutions LLC, 25400; Nicor Gas, 34184; NMS Labs, 11408; North East Multi Regional Training, 17965; Northern Contracting Inc, 4898; Northwestern Univ Center For Public Safety, 15085; Nova Pole Industries Inc, 50561; Nugent Consulting Group LLC, 24600; NuToys Leisure Products Inc, 17002; Omega Electric Co. Inc, 109700; On Time Embroidery Inc, 52701; OpenGov Inc, 68891; P.A. Crimson Fire Risk Services Inc, 3189; Panda Restaurant Group Inc, 57299; Papendorf, John, 5000; Parent, Karen, 4684; Passport Labs Inc, 14594; Paymentus Corp, 96732; Peerless Midwest Inc, 4900; Peerless Network Inc, 26195; Performance Pipelining Inc, 108603; Performance Real Estate Advisors, 26017; Peters, Art & Joan, 4961; Pitney Bowes Inc, 13253; Pitney Bowes Reserve Acct, 25245; Polach Appraisal Group Inc, 4750; Pomp’s Tire Service, 19286; Positive Promotions, 4349; Prescient Solutions Inc, 403888; Progressive Communications Inc, 37595; Quezada, Jonathan, 4982; R W Dunteman Co, 2285206; Ramsey, Michael, 2975; Ray O’Herron Co Inc, 76772; Ready Rebound, Inc, 21326; Red Wing Business Advantage Acct, 14317; Regional Truck Equipment, 40527; Ribbens, Benjamin, 5000; RingCentral, Inc, 49020; RJN Group Inc, 21110; RoadSafe Traffic Systems Inc, 34600; Robbins Schwartz, 4566; Robinson Engineering Ltd, 242634; Roesch Ford, 20663; RoMAAS, Inc, 2784193; Rose Pest Solutions, 4980; Rubber Inc, 2830; Rubino Engineering Inc, 54547; Rush Truck Centers of Illinois Inc, 4212; Ryan LLC, 8413; S Schroeder Trucking Inc, 23963; SafetyLane Automotive Equipment, 395093; Samsara Inc, 11903; Schaaf Equipment Co, 3432; Season Comfort Corp, 58546; Seeco Consultants Inc, 17931; Service Spring Co Inc, 3515; Sewertech LLC, 100141; Sieracki, Ed, 5000; SKC Construction Inc, 99225; SLUCare Physician Group, 9638; Stanard & Associates Inc, 4950; Standard Equipment Company, 16323; Stars & Stripes Silk Screening Inc, 5820; State Graphics, 6476; Steinhafels, Inc., 11142; Stern, Andrew, 4962; Strand Associates, Inc, 294817; Structured Solutions LLC, 70311; Suburban Laboratories Inc, 23595; Sunbelt Rentals, Inc, 4000; Superior Road Striping, Inc., 43449; Sutton Ford Inc, 239863; Swanson, Rosemary, 5000; Synergy Construction Group LLC, 2161958; T Mobile USA Inc, 2570; TAPCO, 5109; Target Solutions Learning, 29201; Teamsters Local 700, 4935; Testing for Public Safety, LLC, 11650; The Flolo Corporation , 7755; The Home Depot Pro Supply Works, 16832; The Ink Well, 7041; The Police Law Institute, 6175; The St Francis Group, 4310; Thomas Engineering Group LLC,

271679; Thompson Elevator Inspection Service Inc, 6480; Thorntons Inc. , 28929; TKB Associates Inc, 8677; Tom Carey Music Inc, 2650; Total Parking Solutions Inc, 10188; TownePlace Suites Chicago Lombard, 3820; Tria Architecture, 7934; Triad Technologies, LLC, 5406; Tyco Security/Johnson Controls, 16896; Tyler Technologies, 148802; Uline Inc, 8367; UMJK Holdings LLC, 68100; Unifirst Corporation, 3630; Union Pacific Railroad, 32141; Unique Products & Service Corp, 7125; Uno Mas Landscaping, 40777; US Gas, 4026; USA Blue Book, 2564; USA Fence Rental and Silt Fencing Inc, 19303; Utility Service Co Inc, 362715; Utility Transport Service, Inc., 135841; Vanco Payment Solutions LLC, 3051; VC3 Inc, 139324; Veritext, 2975; Verizon Wireless Services LLC, 106710; Vermeer Midwest , 159331; Veterans Vac Services LLC, 127500; Villa Park Electrical Supply Inc, 3056; Villa Park Office Equipment, 12670; Village of Addison, 2783; Village of Glen Ellyn, 183440; Village of Lombard, 130862; Village of Lombard Petty Cash, 7708; Village of Romeoville Fire Academy, 16020; Vortex Lining Systems LLC, 5589161; Vulcan Materials Co, 18973; W S Darley & Company, 15092; Warehouse Direct, 7783; Water Products Company of Aurora, Inc., 3125; Water Resources, 172623; Waterly LLC, 7292; West & Sons Towing Inc, 6952; West Central Municipal Conference, 126785; West Side Tractor Sales Co, 130921; Westmore Supply Co Inc, 2631; Wex Health, Inc, 109747; Wheaton Bank & Trust Company, 24190; Whiting Systems Inc, 25964; Windy City Lights Inc., 2977; Wright National Flood Insurance Company, 2777; Xylem Water Solutions USA Inc, 56576; York Township, 67761; YTC Butterfield Owner LLC, 624066; Ziebell Water Service Products Inc, 41862; Zoho Corporation, 10460; Zoll Medical Corp, 6925

Section C – Personnel Service Payments $0-$24,999 C.Rogde; B.Woods; J.Walsh; S.Casimiro; N.Rasmussen; R.Aiello; D.Vasallo; S.Kotlewski; E.Lechuga; J.Downer; J.Degnan; A.Honig; C.Reilly; A.Puccio; D.Militello; B.LaVaque; B.Dudek; R.Bachner; F.Segura; A.Goodman; F.MacShane; T.Solomon; E.Brezinski; J.Nguyen; P.Padilla-Bozyk; C.Sundberg; N.Mcdonough; D.Murphy; M.Goy; K.Burke; G.Klunk; L.Gonzalez; D.Miller; K.Giagnorio; M.Neville; M.Smurawski; M.Millett; M.Coppock; V.Adame; A.Ziemer; $25,000-$49,999 C.Petty; B.Logsdon; T.Capua; M.Hovee; G.Romagnano; A.DiSimone; J.Wetzel; A.Beckham; J.Barba; J.Hays; A.Diaz; R.Leitherer; M.Janicke; M.Kohn; N.Tamos; T.Weatherhead; J.Bartunek; T.Vargas; L.Crackel; J.Montana; J.Kirincich; J.Horn; T.Urish; $50,000-$74,999 M.Devine; M.Smalec; M.South; T.Moran; B.Reyes; J.Gaik; D.Thiede; B.Bjerga; V.Suarez; J.Menolascino; P.Uhlir; R.Haas; R.Arguilles; A.Rodriguez; A.Breytspraak; K.Tuttle; Y.Ortiz; I.Cortes; J.Gross; J.Jakubik; D.Duda; K.Barrie; M.Reszka; L.Tomlinson; P.Alstott; A.Ferrero; J.Whiteman; T.Ford; C.Golz; J.Rumsey; T.Gallagher; P.Ramirez; B.Blankenship; A.Johnston; S.York; J.Schrepferman; $75,000-$99,999 J.Dacic; M.Schmidt; J.Schwinn; A.Smith; M.Stevens; G.Sanders; B.Huizinga; A.Williams; M.Klimczak; A.Pierandozzi; T.Vokac; S.Calvillo; J.Thielenhouse; T.Dixon; J.Baker; S.Cox; N.Tuttle; N.Plunge; S.Lafiandra; W.Harvey; C.Bauer; T.Opolony; A.Martinez; H.Viramontes; R.Tirjer; J.Zumpano; J.Quezada; J. Johns; D.Jimenez; M.Hopman; N.Diaz; D.Wojs; B.Osazuwa; K.Schweigert; D. Jimenez; T.Brodzik; D.Spevak; T.Flynn; C.Castellanos; P.Schlueter; A.Martino; A.McGown; I.Olesiak; J.Karol; J.Nawracaj; S.Neetz; A.Papke; C.Henderson; $100,000-$124,999 B.Jelinek; N.Gac; N.Nichols; S.Thornburg; D.Bily; R.Carlson; R.Briones; A.Rozborski; B.Gatto; E.Lindgren; J.Gottfried; S.Gar-

Continued on next page

• Events

Lombard’s fireworks display is a family-friendly event. Please adhere to all safety guidelines and regulations, be mindful of your surroundings, dispose of trash properly and keep an eye on children at all times.

To ensure the safety of all attendees, the Lombard Police Department may operate drones in the park area for real-time monitoring both before and during the event.

Oakbrook Terrace— The City of Oakbrook Terrace will be hosting a July 4 th concert and fireworks display, which has been a tradition in Oakbrook Terrace for over 50 years. The fireworks begin at 9:30

p.m. at Terrace View Park. Villa Park —Join the Village of Villa Park for its annual Independence Day Parade hosted by the Villa Park VFW Post 2801. The theme this year is “Forever United” and the parade route is roughly 2 miles. The parade steps off at 10 a.m., and will begin at Park Blvd. and Summit Avenue before heading west on Park Blvd. to Harvard Avenue, then it’s south on Harvard Avenue to Madison Street, then east on Madison to Summit, and finally north on Summit Avenue to Park Blvd. for dispersal.

Saturday, July 5

Coffee with the Village Board

Coming event

Outdoor Vintage Day June 29

Sunday, June 29, South Park Street, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., 20+ vintage vendors, vintage-inspired artists, live bands, vintage vinyl DJ. To apply as a vendor, please register using the online application promptly to assure that you are considered for participation. Market space is limited. Applying to the market does not guarantee a space. 10’ x 10’ Vendor Space - $ 175. The event does not supply any tables, chairs and tents. If a tent is brought, it must be secured with weights to hold down. Set up will start at 9 a.m., and all spaces need to be set up by 10:30. All vendors must provide a website address showcasing the products they will be selling. If no website is available, photos will be accepted. Visit lombardchamber.com for more information.

Villa Park From 9-10 a.m. on the second floor of Village Hall, meet and have coffee with members of the Villa Park Village Board. For more information, visit: https:// www.invillapark.com.

Saturday, July 20

NOTICE

CERTIFICATE NO. 79733 was filed in the office of the County Clerk of DuPage County on JUNE 12, 2025 wherein the business firm of XIMENA’S FAMILY CHILD CARE, 568 S. PARK RD., LOMBARD, IL 60148, 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:

Jose M Escobar, 568 S. Park Rd., Lombard, IL 60148; Faviola X. Escobar, 568 S. Park Rd., Lombard, IL 60148.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand and Official Seal at my office in Wheaton, Illinois, this 12TH day of JUNE, A.D. 2025

Jean Kaczmarek DuPage County Clerk (Published in The Lombardian June 19 & 26, July 3, 2025) 473432

NOTICE

CERTIFICATE NO. 79717 was filed in the office of the County Clerk of DuPage County on MAY 29, 2025 wherein the business firm of GLOSS’EM NAILS, 4126 CHESAPEAKE DR APT 2C, AURORA, IL 60504 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: Marina Kurttay, 4126 Chesapeake Dr Apt 2C, Aurora, IL 60504.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand and Official Seal at my office in Wheaton, Illinois, this 29TH day of MAY, A.D. 2026. Jean Kaczmarek DuPage County Clerk (Published in The Lombardian June 12, 19 & 26, 2025) 473028

NOTICE

CERTIFICATE NO. 79723 was filed in the office of the Coun-

Lucha Libre

Bensenville

The Village of Bensenville presents Lucha Libre at The Edge on John Street—an electrifying night of highflying action, family fun, and unforgettable entertainment. Doors open at 4:30 p.m.; the show starts at 5:30 p.m. For

more information and tickets, visit: https://gallilucha. ticketspice.com/lucha-librethe-edge.

Now through Oct. 7 2025 Farmers Market Lombard From 3-7 p.m. every

LEGAL NOTICES

ty Clerk of DuPage County on JUNE 2, 2025, wherein the business firm of HIJABUNISA BY AKH, 117 HARDING COURT, 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:

Aisha Asrar, 117 Harding Court, Glendale Heights, IL 60139.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand and Official Seal at my office in Wheaton, Illinois, this 2ND day of JUNE, A.D. 2025.

Jean Kaczmarek

DuPage County Clerk (Published in The Lombardian June 12, 19 & 26, 2025) 473045

NOTICE

CERTIFICATE NO. 79731 was filed in the office of the County Clerk of DuPage County on JUNE 11, 2025 wherein the business firm of CROWN BAKING CO., 6680 POWELL ST., DOWNERS GROVE, IL 60516 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:

Deborah McClelland, 6680 Powell St., Downers Grove, IL 60516.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand and Official Seal at my office in Wheaton, Illinois, this 11TH day of JUNE, A.D. 2025.

Jean Kaczmarek DuPage County Clerk (Published in The Lombardian June 19 & 26, July 3, 2025) 473318

IN THE MARION SUPERIOR COURT CAUSE NO. 49D11-2410-CT-046278 STATE OF INDIANA ) ) SS:

COUNTY OF MARION ) KRISTIE LOFLAND VS. DIEUSON LERON, SOLOMON BROS LLC, and FORWARD A2B INC.

SUMMONS - SERVICE BY PUBLICATION

NOTICE OF SUIT

The State of Indiana to the Defendant(s) above named, and any other person who may be concerned:

You are hereby notified that Solomon Bros LLC is being sued by Kristie Lofland, in Marion Superior Court, State of Indiana. The title of the case as shown by the complaint is Kristie Lofland vs. Dieuson Leron, Solomon Bros LLC, and Forward A2B Inc., Cause No. 49D112410-CT-046278.

The nature of the suit is a civil action wherein Plaintiff has filed a Complaint for Damages demanding judgment for personal injuries and damages as a result of an incident which occurred on July 25, 2024.

This summons by publication and notice is specifically directed to the defendant, Solomon Bros LLC, whose whereabouts are unknown.

You must answer or otherwise respond to the complaint in writing, by you or your attorney, on or before the day of July 24, 2025 (the same being within thirty (30) days after the publication of the third Notice of Suit, the last such notice of this action), and in case you fail to do so, judgment by default may be entered against you for the relief demanded by the Plaintiffs in the complaint.

If you have a claim for relief against the Plaintiff arising out of this occurrence that is the subject matter of the Plaintiff’s claims, you must assert it in your written answer.

The name and address of the attorneys representing Plaintiff: Ken Nunn Law Office, 104 Franklin Road, Bloomington, Indiana 47404. KEN NUNN LAW OFFICE BY: /s/ Bradford J. Smith Bradford J. Smith, #22783-47

Tuesday in downtown Lombard at Park Avenue and St. Charles Road, get your farm fresh goods, enjoy local vendors and live entertainment, and gather with your community at Farmers Market!

For more information, visit: www.lombardchamber.com.

KEN NUNN LAW OFFICE

104 South Franklin Road

Bloomington, IN 47404

Phone: (812) 332-9451

Fax: (812) 331-5321

E-mail: brads@kennunn.com

ATTEST:

Clerk of the Marion Superior Court /s/ Katherine E. Sweeney Bell (SEAL)

Bradford J. Smith, #22783-47

Ken Nunn Law Office

104 South Franklin Road Bloomington, IN 47404

Telephone: 812-332-9451

Fax Number: 812-331-5321

Attorney for Plaintiff

(Published in the Addison Independent, Bensenville Independent & Villa Park Review June 12, 19 & 26, 2025) 473127

PUBLIC NOTICE: DESTRUCTION OF DISTRICT RECORDS

The Addison School District 4 hereby gives notice of its intent to destroy administrative, financial, and other non-student records dated 1977-2024, in accordance with state and federal records retention policies. Records scheduled for destruction are no longer deemed necessary for district operations or compliance purposes.

Destruction will begin after July 30, 2025. Individuals or agencies who believe they may have a reason to access these records before disposal must submit a written request to the Human Resources Department at nkazanecki@asd4.org by July 18, 2025.

For further information, contact Nicole Kazanecki at nkazanecki@ asd4.org

(Published in the Addison Independent, Bensenville Independent & Villa Park Review June 26, July 3, 10, & 17, 2025) 473764

gano; T.Fukar; K.McNamara; E.Loh; M.Thompson; T.Gunn; D.Anger; H.Mussar; S.Oliver; P.Johnson; S.Muratalla; A.Ruiz; J.Thinnes; P.Hernandez; A.Lauer; P.Rooney; J.Wuorenma; M.Beckley; K.Kasher; R.Hopper; G.Maranto; R.Nastasowski; M.Barbier; C.Stevens; A.Boccassini; D.Herndobler; M.Flores; J.Tomasek; J.Gouty; A.Markas; D.Huftel; J.Brown; E.Gouty; J.Malatia; J.Fairbairn; J.Virene; T.Franken; A.Bruce; E.Hendrickson; $125,000-$149,999 R.Heabel; M.Lurquin; S.Jean; C.Wilmot; K.Straughn; J.Trapani; C.Kennedy; P.Coy; M.Kazy-Garey; A.Barylowicz; B.Speck; P.Rojas; B.Kurth; R.Schwab; B.Bastian; B.Legan; J.Cunningham-Johnson; T.Davis; N.Eriksen; N.Barron; L.Shemsiu; J.Placencia; K.Matthews; S.Stillwell; B.Bichel; R.Postal; S.Kemnetz; J.Markschat; C.Brack; A.Siegler; J.White; J.Shafer; N.Soprano; J.Kaforski; K.Rome; B.Jack; B.Talip; K.Steiskal; N.Noon; R.LaMontagna; M.Orseske; D.Farris; T.Balsitis; A.Bonnan; G.Suto; A.Putz; A.Johnson; R.Blockinger; M.Batiz; G.Sohr; T.Gorvett; D.Campbell; L.Carbajal; A.Kruckenberg; M.Vazquez; J.Kohl; J.Shark; D.Volz; J.Studnicka; S.Eakins; M.Camuy; $150,000-$199,999 J.Statkus; A.Johnson; G.Hyland; M. Weibler; W.Klein; T.Hillesheim; K.Wnek; B.Ranallo; K.Goethals; D.Gorman; K.Dunne-Balsamo; D.Ekhart; T.Ellis; M.Laffrey; D.Cail; J.Grage; J.Chudzinski; V.Roman; D.Herrera; M.Heimbecker; A.Stern; A.Sally; M.Chudzinski; N.Aranas; W.Heniff; T.Wirsing; M.Ringa; R.Sander; T.Sexton; C.Goldsmith; $200,000-$250,000 S.Niehaus

Classifieds

NOTICE All real estate advertising in this newspaper is subject to the Fair Housing Act which makes it illegal to advertise any preference, limitation or discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, disability, familiar/ status or national origin, or an intention to make any such preference, limitation or discrimination. Familial status includes children under the age of 18 living with parents or legal custodians, pregnant women and people securing custody of children under 18. This newspaper will not knowingly accept any advertising for real estate which is in violation of the law. Our readers are hereby informed that all dwellings advertised in this newspaper are available on an equal opportunity basis. To complain of discrimination call HUD toll-free at 1-900-669-9777. The toll-free tele phone number for the hearing impaired is 1-800-927-9275. EQUAL HOUSING OPPORTUNITY

CLASSIFIED IN-COLUMN ADS cannot be credited or refunded after the ad has been placed. Ads canceled before deadline will be removed from the paper as a service to our customers, but no credit or refund will be issued to your account.

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

To Give Away

Never Known to Fail 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, herein 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 answer me in this necessity. There are none that can withstand your power. Oh, show me herein you are my mother. Oh, Mary conceived without sin, pray for us who have recourse to thee (3x). Holy Mother, I place this cause in your hands (3xs). Sweet Mother, I place this cause in your hands (3x). Holy Spirit, you who solve all problems, light all roads so that I can attain my goal, you who gave me divine gift to forgive and forget all evil against me, and that in all instances in my life you are with me. I want in this short prayer to thank you for all things as you confirm once again that I never want to be separated from you in eternal glory. Thank you for your mercy towards me and mine.

The person must say this prayer 3 consecutive days, after 3 days the request will be granted.

This prayer must be published after the favor is granted. A.S.K. 472268

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Special scholarship

Several members of Glenbard East High School’s Class of 2025 received scholarships during the school’s Local Scholarship Night event in Biester Auditorium. The honored students at the May 7 celebration included Veronica Witt, who received the Rachel Bach Memorial Scholarship. Witt (center) is pictured with Rachel Bach’s parents—Jan (left) and Rick (right). Rachel Bach, who graduated from Glenbard East in 1996, was an accomplished student and a talented multi-sport athlete. She died in the summer of 1996, shortly before she was going to attend college. Witt, who played volleyball and basketball for the Rams, will attend Illinois State University and major in family and consumer science education.

Chris Fox photo Rock Valley Publishing