Congratulations to the girls tennis team for a successful 2022 season. Thank you to Coaches Jeff and Maureen Porto for your continued strong guidance. The Lady Bison were set to host this year’s Upstate Eight Conference tournament, but due
to poor court conditions at Fenton the coaching staff and athletic department had to organize the tournament at Bartlett High School. Several students advanced to Regionals.
an nounced that bond has been denied for an Addison man accused of killing his wife in their home earlier this week.
Brahim Bakayoko, 44, appeared at a bond hearing where Judge Paul Marchese granted the state’s motion
to deny bond. Bakayoko has been charged with one count of first-degree murder.
On Wednesday, Oct. 26 at approx imately 3:45 p.m., the Addison Police Department responded to a call in the 1100 block of Trinity Drive for a re port of an individual in full arrest.
Upon their arrival, officers found
the victim, Reyniko Bakayo ko, deceased on the floor of the firstfloor bathroom.
Officers per formed life-saving measures on the victim, but she ap peared to already be deceased. At 3:59 p.m. the victim was pronounced deceased.
While officers were speaking with the defendant at the home, he told of ficers he needed some air and without notice left the house with his daughter in a silver BMW. After the defendant left the house, Addison police officers contacted him by phone and the defen dant indicated he would return to the home in 45 minutes.
A short time later, the defendant and his daughter returned to the home
but left again several minutes later. Subsequently, officers spoke with the defendant regarding the death of his wife.
Following an autopsy performed on the victim, it is alleged that the vic tim died of strangulation. It is alleged that at some point in time in the early afternoon of Wednesday, Oct. 26, the defendant and the victim were en gaged in a verbal argument that turned physical. It is further alleged that the defendant strangled his wife following the verbal altercation.
On Thursday, Oct. 27 at approxi mately 12:55 p.m., the defendant was taken into custody at his home. He has been in custody since that time.
“It is alleged that a verbal alterca tion between the defendant and his wife escalated, ultimately turning physical resulting in the defendant strangling his wife, Reyniko Bakayo ko,” Berlin said. “Domestic violence
is unfortunately a significant societal issue, and my office remains commit ted to using every tool available to re duce its impact on our communities.
“I offer my sincere condolences to Reyniko’s surviving family and friends on their loss. I thank the Ad dison Police Department for their out standing work on this case.”
“The men and women from the Addison Police Department send their condolences to the victim’s daughters and her entire family during this tragic time,” Hayden said. “The investigators and officers worked diligently to bring justice for the victim. I commend their efforts as well as the efforts of DuPage County State’s Attorney Bob Berlin’s office for the pursuit of justice for the victim.”
Bakayoko’s next court appearance is scheduled for Monday, Nov. 28 for arraignment in front of Judge Ann Ce line O’Hallaren Walsh.
During the Illinois Association of School Boards (IASB) DuPage Di vision meeting on Wednesday, Nov. 2, the District 88 Board of Education was recognized with the following three honors: the School Board Gov ernance Recognition and two Board Leader recognitions.
The School Board Governance designation acknowledges school boards that have engaged in activities that lead to excellence in local school governance in support of quality
public education. Boards are honored for learning and practicing effective governance behaviors, through par ticipation in and support for board development programs and events.
District 88 Board of Education President Donna Craft Cain was named as a Distinguished Board Leader. This program recognizes school board members for individual time and effort devoted to learning and leadership activities provided by the IASB and for service to the public
education community. Craft Cain has served on the District 88 Board of Education since 2004 and has been Board President since 2011. She also is an alumna of Willowbrook (class of 1981), is the parent of three Dis trict 88 graduates and is a longtime resident and business owner in the
District 88 community. District 88 Board of Education Member Diana Stout was named as an Established Board Leader. This program recognizes school board members for individual time and ef fort devoted to learning and leader ship activities provided by the IASB
and for service to the public educa tion community. Stout has served on the District 88 Board of Education since 2021. She is the parent of two Willowbrook graduates and a current senior and also served as a member of the District 45 Board of Education for eight years.
Members of the School District 88 Board of Education were hon ored recently at the Illinois Association of School Boards (IASB) DuPage Division meeting on Wednesday, Nov. 2. Pictured are (from left) District 88 Board of Education member Diana Stout, Board sec retary Amy Finnegan, Board member Jean Taylor, Board president Donna Craft Cain and Board vice president Dan Olson. (Not pictured: Board members Lisa Knauf and Christine Poirier.)
Willowbrook High School’s theater department presented its fall musical last week. The cast and crew offered three performances of “Anything Goes” from Nov. 3-5. One photo from Saturday’s per formance shows senior Amelia Tortorici (foreground), who played the lead role of Reno Sweeney, leading the cast in “Blow, Gabriel, Blow.”
Bible Study 9 a.m. Worship Service at 10:15 a.m. Wednesday Service at 7 p.m.
Adult Bible Study Wednesdays after service Ladies Bible Fellowship Mondays at 7 p.m. No Game Night in November Everyone is Welcome! All services are live streamed.
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Congratulations to Angel Acosta Leon for being recognized by the Col lege Board for outstanding academic achievement.
As part of an equity initiative a few years ago, the College Board created National Recognition Programs for students from underrepresented pop
ulations. These are highly respected honors that carry a lot of weight on a student’s college and scholarship ap plications.
High school students across the country are invited to apply if their PSAT or AP scores are within a cer tain range. They must also have a GPA
of 3.5 or higher by the middle of their junior year.
Angel Acosta Leon was selected for the National Hispanic Recogni tion Award. He was recognized by the Fenton High School District 100 Board of Education on Wednesday, Oct. 26.
While at the podium, Angel thanked his parents for all the sacrifices they have made and continue to make in order for him to pursue his education.
“I’m very humble for it, and I’m very thankful for them,” Angel told the school board. “They play a very important role in my life today.”
The Bensenville Park District of fers several options for kindergarten through eighth grade boys and girls interested in playing basketball, in cluding co-ed in-house basketball for those in grades K-4 and intervillage play for boys and girls grades 3-8.
Intervillage League play is bro ken into three separate grade levels for both boys and girls teams: grades 3-4, grades 5-6, and grades 7-8. All players will be evaluated and placed on a team. Evaluations take place within a week of the Wednesday, Nov. 9, registration deadline. Practic es will begin in December and games
against other villages begin in Janu ary, running through March. Home games are played at the Deer Grove Leisure Center, and road games are played in nearby villages. The fee of $115 for residents ($138 non-resi dents) includes a team uniform.
The deadline to register for co-ed in-house (Bensenville Sports Con ference) play is Wednesday, Nov. 23. Teams are broken down in four grade levels. All games will be played at the Deer Grove Leisure Center.
Kindergarten co-ed basketball games take place from 2:30-5 p.m. on Saturdays beginning Jan. 7. Prac
tices take place before games. The fee is $45 for residents ($55 for non-residents) and includes a team t-shirt and awards.
First grade and second grade coed basketball teams are formed by coaches and the supervisor of athlet ics. Practices begin in December, and games are played from 12 noon to 2:30 p.m. Saturdays, beginning Jan. 7. The $85 fee ($110 for non-res idents) includes a team t-shirt and awards for top finishers.
Co-ed teams made up of third- and fourth-graders will be formed by the athletic supervisor and coaches after
the registration deadline, and prac tices will begin in December. The games will take place from 5:45 to 8 p.m. Thursday and Friday evenings beginning Thursday, Jan. 5. The fee is $85 ($110 for non-residents) and includes a team t-shirt and awards for top finishers. Fourth graders enrolled at this level may still register to play in Intervillage League games on Sat urdays.
Volunteer coaches are needed for all teams to make these leagues pos sible. Please contact Breana Aponte at (630) 766-7015 or email BApon te@BvilleParks.org.
The Bensenville Park District has joined forces with the Chicago Wolves to offer a ticket package for the 7 p.m. game on Saturday, Nov. 19 between the Wolves and Rock ford Ice Hogs that includes a game ticket, hot dog, soft drink and win ter cap, along with a contribution toward the Bensenville Youth Coa lition. Those purchasing tickets via BvilleParks.org/Wolves will receive the special benefits. The event is
open to all.
“We are excited to join with the defending Calder Cup champions for this special that offers a great value to our residents and gives back to the community,” said Bensenville Park District executive director Joe Vallez. “Because of the popularity of these events, we are pleased to announce a Bensenville Family Day with the Wolves at 3 p.m. on Sun day, March 19, when they face the
Manitoba Moose at Allstate Arena.”
Tickets for the March 19 game will go on sale at the start of win ter-spring registration on Tuesday, Nov. 29, at BvilleParks.org/Wolves. More information is available in the park district’s Winter-Spring Pro gram Guide.
heim Road in Rosemont. Parking is available on-site.
The Bensenville Youth Services Coalition is a non-profit organi zation of diverse partners, whose mission it is to recognize, promote and develop youth by strengthening their connections with the commu nity.
Arena, 6920 N. Mann
The Chicago Wolves are the AHL affiliate of the Carolina Hurricanes. All Wolves home games are played at
For more information, vis it Bensenville.il.us/686/Bensen ville-Youth-Services-Coalition.
Valley
Editor’s note: Unless otherwise specified, learn more about these events and programs at: addison library.org/events or call 630-5433617.
Starting at 7 p.m. at the Large Meeting Room of the Addison Public Library, the inventions of Thomas A. Edison didn’t happen overnight. The light bulb, phonograph, film projec tor and others took a great deal of trial and error.
We’ll explore Edison’s inventions and the perseverance he needed to become one of the great American inventors. Co-sponsored by Addison Historical Society.
Miabella DiGrazia, pictured here with Addison Trail Principal Jack Andrews, has been named as Addison Trail’s October re cipient of 88’s Best recognition for her outstanding academic accomplishments. A senior, DiGrazia was recognized during the District 88 Board of Education meeting on Monday, Oct. 31.
Starting at 11 a.m. at the Adult Program Room of the Addison Pub lic Library, join us for crafts, games, light refreshments, conversation, and fun with friends old and new. We’ll do something different each time we meet and it will always be a fun treat.
From 2-2:30 p.m. at the Addison Public Library, enjoy stories, songs, and a fun activity. Geared toward ages birth-3 but all ages are welcome.
From 2-3 p.m. at the Adult Pro gram Room of the Addison Public Library, having an email account and knowing how to use it is a must in today’s world. Attendees will create a Gmail account and learn all the important functions, from sending and receiving emails to dealing with spam and organizing an inbox. Part of our Technology Made Simple se ries; learn more at https://www.addi sonlibrary.org/Tech-Simple.
From 6:30-8 p.m. on Zoom via the Addison Public Library, an an nual budget is considered to be best practice for growing a business, yet many small business owners don’t engage in the budgeting process. This webinar will outline ways to or ganize your financial goals to grow your business.
Wednesday, Nov. 16
Turkey time story time
From 10-10:30 a.m. at the Addi son Public Library, join us for a story time featuring our feathered friends, the turkeys.
Essentrics: Dynamic stretching
Starting at 1 p.m. at the Large Meeting Room of the Addison Public Library, Essentrics® is a low-impact, full-body workout that is safe for all ages and fitness levels and helps you improve flexibility. Wear comfort able clothes. We workout in bare feet or non-slip socks.
From 10-11 a.m. on Zoom via the Addison Public Library, Soft skills are highly sought after by employers, yet underestimated by job seekers! These important character traits and interpersonal skills influence how well you can work or interact with others. In this workshop, you’ll dis cover the importance of soft skills, how to develop them, and how to in corporate them into your job search.
From 10-11 a.m. at the Creative Studio of the Addison Public Library, create a custom mug with your pho to on it! During this class, you will learn how to use the Creative Stu dio’s Sawgrass sublimation printer and Cricut Mug Press to make cus tom mugs. Supplies will be provided. Please bring a photo saved on a USB flash drive.
time
Holiday edition (drop in)
From 10-10:45 a.m. at the Ad dison Public Library, join us for crafts celebrating the upcoming hol idays. Geared towards ages 2-5, but all ages welcome.
Sara Weissgerber of Addison was one of more than 100 artists, crafters and vendors who participated in the annual Lombard Christmas Mart held Saturday. Attendees were able to shop for unique holiday gifts, which were on display in churches and schools on Maple Street from Main to Elizabeth streets in Lombard. Weissgerber owns LilyAnna’s Creations, which makes a variety of wood flower arrangements and decor. Weissgerber had these sola wood flowers available for purchase at the Christmas Mart.
Swap out your old jigsaw puzzles and family board games for some
thing “new to you.” For each puzzle or game you donate, you will get a ticket to receive a different puzzle during the exhange. Drop off at the Adult Services Desk on Nov. 17, 18 and 19. Pick up on Sunday, Nov. 20.
From 1:30-2:30 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 13 at the Adult Program Room of the Addison Public Library, and from 10-11 a.m. Tuesday, Nov. 15 at the Large Meeting Room of the Addison Public Library, your resume is an es sential part of the job search process. This workshop will teach you how to create and format a resume to best sell your skills and experience to po tential employers. Part of our Tech nology Made Simple series; learn more at https://www.addisonlibrary. org/Tech-Simple.
Starting at 6 p.m. Nov. 15, 16, 17, 28 and 29 at the Addison Public Li brary, join writers across the country for National Novel Writing Month.
Every writer gets a starter kit with a branded tote and some goodies to get you motivated. Make progress on your novel by coming to our writing circles. We’ll provide the snacks, but the writing is up to you. Get feedback from other writers or dive deep into your writing.
The Addison Park District pre school program curriculum reflects the Illinois Early Learning and De velopment Standards. Visit www. illinoisearlylearning.org for more de tails. The Park District helps children develop prekindergarten skills, in cluding letter/name recognition, lis tening skills, healthy habits, cooper ative play, fine motor, and socializa tion skills. The experiences are both educational and recreational, which aid in social, physical, intellectual, and emotional growth. Registration is taken in-person at the Centenni al Rec Center. Call (630) 233-7275 option 3 for registration availability. Visit addisonparks.org for required paperwork due prior to first day of program.
At 2 p.m. Mondays on Zoom, and at 7 p.m. Wednesdays at the Adult Program Room of the Addison Pub lic Library, practice listening and speaking skills in a small group set ting. Learn more at: addisonlibrary. org/events
At 11 a.m. Tuesdays at the Adult Program Room of the Addison Pub lic Library. Learn more at: addisonli brary.org/events
From 10-10:30 a.m. at the Addison Public Library, join us for stories and activities about everyday heroes, su perheroes, and more.
Clubs and organizations are wel come to send entries for this column to: news1@rvpublishing.com. Please include a phone number or e-mail ad dress to contact for information.
Area police departments recently reported the following arrests and citations.
Readers are reminded that an ar rest does not constitute a conviction, and that suspects are considered innocent unless proven guilty in a court of law.
Persons charged with domestic battery are not named in order to protect the privacy of victims. Ju veniles age 17 or younger are not named.
Dana C. Hatcher, 27, and Tyree J. Reese, 30, both of Chicago, were charged with two counts of aiding and abetting possessing and selling a stolen vehicle in the Westgate area at noon.
Richard A. Mayers, 64, of Bensenville, was charged with DUI and driving while license suspended or revoked near Lake and Addison at 12:09 a.m.
Oct. 30
Rehan R. Syed, 19, of Aurora, was charged with DUI-drugs near Lake Street off the I-355 ramp at 1:28 a.m.
Annet P. Pozo-Rodriguez, 42, of Wood Dale, was charged with DUI and failure to reduce speed near Ad dison and Factory at 6:54 a.m.
A 44-year-old Addison man was charged with two counts of domes tic battery in the 700 block of N. Lenore.
Oct. 24
Jesus Zermeno, 20, of Cicero, was charged with three counts of burglary and aggravated battery to a police officer.
Oct. 23
Maria Aguinaga-Silva, 50, of Ad dison, was charged with DUI and resisting a police officer in the 600 block of N. Briar at 7:13 p.m.
Police said Manuel E. Barrios, 25, of Streamwood, was issued a warrant for carrying and possessing a firearm and possession of canna bis in the 100 block of W. Byron at 10:46 p.m.
Kedrick S. Dennis, 43, of Lom bard, was charged with DUI and driving while license suspended near Wood Dale and Oak at 12:11 p.m.
Walter Arnoldo Pascual Garcia, 22, of Addison, was charged with two counts of DUI in the 700 block of E. Lake at 2:28 a.m.
A 20-year-old Addison man was charged with two counts of domes tic battery in the 600 block of S. Wisconsin at 3:52 a.m.
Oct. 21
Monika A. Misterka, 44, of Addi son, was charged with DUI and un lawful use of a blackjack/knife near Meadows and Reed at 10:41 p.m.
Oct. 19
Police said Luis Silverio Cruz-Lo pez, 33, of Bensenville, was issued a warrant near Villa and Myrick at 12:44 a.m.
Kadeesha C. Durr, 28, of Chica go, was charged with two counts of battery in the 600 block of W. Lake at 11:38 p.m.
Villa Park Oct. 29
A complainant at a restaurant/ bar in the 100 block of E. North re ported at 11:27 p.m. that a subject was causing a disturbance at the bar and wanted them to leave. Officers spoke with the subject, who agreed to leave.
Oct. 28
Police said Jessica L. Brown, 27, of Villa Park, was arrested on a fail ure to appear warrant out of DuPage County in the 700 block of Ovaltine Court at 3:05 p.m.
Multiple complainants in the 1-100 block of E. Van Buren, the 1100 block of S. Cornell and the 1400 block of S. Oakland reported at 3:35 a.m. that unknown suspects entered their vehicles overnight and removed items. Another com plainant reported that an unknown suspect attempted to steal a vehicle parked in the driveway. The vehicle was unsecured with the keys in the ignition.
Police said Stewart Hinton, 36, of Chicago, was arrested on the above date on an original complaint and warrant for aggravated fleeing and eluding a police officer for an in cident that allegedly occurred Dec. 19, 2021.
A suspect was issued a no-tres pass notice at a liquor store in the 1600 block of S. Ardmore at 4:41 p.m. after a complainant reported the suspect removed cigars from the counter and left without paying.
Oct. 26
A complainant in the 300 block of N. Princeton reported at 9:04 p.m. that an unknown suspect threatened them via telephone.
Oct. 25
Retail theft was reported at a store in the 900 block of S. Route 83 at 9:05 p.m. A complainant reported that an unknown suspect removed several items from display shelves and left the store without paying for the items.
A complainant in the 300 block of Iowa reported at 9:03 a.m. that an unknown suspect damaged two windows on the building with an unknown object.
A complainant in the 400 block of W. Terrace reported at 7:36 p.m. that a subject was causing a disturbance. The subject was issued a no-trespass notice.
Jonathan S. Cunningham, 36, of Villa Park, was charged with being a fugitive from justice near S. Route
83 and St. Charles at 6:42 p.m.
Two incidents of theft were re ported at a rental company in the 700 block of S. Route 83 at 10:52 a.m. In both instances, a complainant re ported that a suspect did not return items that were rented out.
A complainant in the 300 block of N. Cornell reported at 10:16 p.m. that a suspect threatened them.
Albert B. DeSanto, 39, of Brook field; Anthony M. DeSanto, 28, of Westchester, Jordan C. DeSanto, 46, of Brookfield; Stephanie M. DeSanto, 36, of Westchester; David Medrano, 38, of Bloomingdale; Je sus R. Medrano, 45, of Wood Dale; and Agelina Torres, 40, of Chicago, were charged with disorderly con duct at a saloon in the 300 block of E. Kenilworth at 1:42 a.m.
A 28-year-old Villa Park man was charged with two counts of domes tic battery in the 100 block of W. Madison at 1:51 p.m.
Retail theft was reported at a phar macy in the 200 block of E. Roos evelt at 5:58 p.m. A complainant re ported that an unknown suspect re moved multiple items from display shelves and left the store without paying. The merchandise was later recovered.
A complainant at an entertain ment center in the 700 block of W. North reported at 8:51 p.m. that an unknown suspect had committed battery against them.
Retail theft was reporting at a store in the 600 block of N. Addison at 4:56 p.m. A complainant reported that an unknown suspect removed a can of beer and left without paying.
According to information provid ed last week by the Villa Park Police Department, police reported one in cident of residents being a victim of fraud or identity theft.
The Bensenville Police Depart ment recently reported the following arrests and citations.
Persons who are charged with domestic battery are not named in order to protect the victim’s priva cy.
Readers are reminded that an ar rest does not constitute a conviction, and that suspects are considered in nocent unless proven guilty in a court of law. Juveniles age 17-or-younger are not named.
Nov. 2, 1:07 a.m. in the 1100 block of Industrial Drive, a complainant reported an unknown suspect fraud ulently used a credit card to purchase an item. This case is under investiga tion. BEPC2200968
Nov. 2, 5:08 p.m. in the 1-100 block of E. Belmont Ave., a com plainant reported an act of domes tic violence by a known suspect. This case is under investigation. BEPC2200971
Nov. 2, 6:24 p.m. in the 100 block of S. York Road, a complainant re ported an act of domestic violence by a known suspect. This case is un der investigation. BEPC2200970
Nov. 2, 8:18 p.m. in the 700 block of W. Irving Park Road, a com plainant reported missing equipment from the exterior of their business. This case is under investigation. BEPC2200972
Nov. 2, 8:52 p.m. in the 900 block of Medinah Street, a complainant reported an act of domestic violence by a known suspect. This case is un der investigation. BEPC2200973
Nov. 2, 5:31 p.m. in the 400 block of W. Hillside Drive, a complainant reported criminal damage to property by an unknown suspect. This case is under investigation. BEPC2200965
Nov. 1, 1:56 p.m. in the 700 block of E. Green St., a complainant re ported a missing Lincoln electric welding machine from their jobsite. This case is under investigation. BEPC2200963
Oct. 30, 11:58 a.m. in the 200 block of W. Main St., a complainant reported an unknown suspect took their 8-month-old male shitzu dog. This incident is under investigation. BEPC2200959
Oct. 28, 4:13 p.m. in the 600 block of Supreme Drive, a com plainant reported a known suspect stole gas from their semi-truck. This incident is under investigation. BEPC2200958
Oct. 27, 10:48 a.m. in the 100 block of George St. the complainant states they are receiving letters ac cusing them of being inconsiderate to neighbors. The incident is under investigation. BEPC22
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County State’s Attorney Robert Berlin announced that an Auro ra man charged with repeatedly punching and kicking his pregnant girlfriend had been sentenced to five years in the Illinois Depart ment of Corrections – one year less than the maximum allowable under the law.
Alexander Authement, 29, of the 1200 block of Andover Court in Aurora, appeared at his sentencing hearing the day prior, when Judge Michael Reidy handed down the sentence. On Friday, Sept. 9, fol lowing a bench trial, Judge Reidy found Authement guilty of four counts of Aggravated Battery –Pregnant victim (Class 3 Felony)
and four counts of Domestic Bat tery (Class 4 Felony). At the time of the offense, Authement was on probation for Domestic Battery out of Kane County.
Authement has been held in cus tody at the DuPage County Jail since his arrest.
On Wednesday, March 23, at approximately 12:34 a.m., Authe ment and his girlfriend, who was six months pregnant at the time, were involved in a verbal alterca tion. The verbal altercation turned physical however, when Authement punched his girlfriend in the face, pushed her to the ground and be gan kicking her. To stop the beat ing, other members of the family had to physically pull Authement
away from his girlfriend. Officers with the Aurora Police Department responded to the home and Authe ment was taken into custody sev eral hours later as he had fled the scene. The victim was treated and assessed by medics at the scene. The unborn child was unharmed from the incident.
“Domestic abuse has no place in a civilized society,” Berlin said. “Unfortunately, we continue to see violent attacks such as this across the country. In DuPage County however, we have no tolerance for this type of violent behavior and will use every tool available to pro tect victims of domestic violence and hold their attackers responsi ble.”
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From 5-9 p.m. at 1 Friendship Plaza, Addi son will be hosting its annual Christmas tree lighting event. There will be musical perfor mances and caroling, train rides in the Village Green, and an opportunity for children to visit with Santa. The tree lighting takes place at 8 p.m. For more information, visit: http://www. ithappensinaddison.com/event_details/christ mas_tree_lighting_367
Starting at 4:30 p.m. at the Addison Police Department, wave to Santa as he winds his way through Addison streets and neighborhoods on a fire engine, and then returns to the police de partment. For more information, visit: http:// www.ithappensinaddison.com/event_details/ christmas_parade_372
Villa Park Holiday Train Ride Dec. 3
Registration deadline: Friday, Nov. 11
On Saturday, Dec. 3 from 10:15 a.m. to 1:15
p.m., join others in Villa Park who will ride the train in PJs (if you wish) to the North Pole (Elburn Train Station). There will be on-board activities highlighted by a visit from Santa, so don’t forget your camera. A story will be read at the train station before departure. Note that the train departs on the south side of the tracks from the Villa Park train station. Preregistra tion is required for all attendees. An adult must accompany all children. Fee: $30 per person (children younger than age 1 are free but must pre-register). For information, visit: www.in villapark.com/299/Family-Events
Villa Park Joyful Traditions Dec. 3
From 4-8 p.m. at the Ruggard Gazebo, there will be photos with Santa, pony rides, a pet ting zoo, a trolly, s’mores, food trucks, char acter photos and more. This event is free and made possible by the generosity of many local businesses. To help sponsor, adopt a tree and for more details, visit: www. villaparkchamber. org/events/calendar
The Village of Bensenville will be accepting donations for its annual toy drive throughout November. Donation boxes will be located at
President Frank DeSimone and the village trustees have announced the Bensenville Holi day Home Decorating Contest.
Gather all your holiday lights, reindeer, wreaths, and decorations, for the Bensenville Holiday Home Decorating Contest. Decorate the outside of your house and yard in the most festive and creative manner.
Nominate your home by emailing the prop erty address, name, email or phone, and picture to: holidaycontest@bensenville.il.us. Submit ted properties will be posted to the village’s Facebook page.
• The Holiday Decorating Contest Commit
tee will do the judging. Award will be given to the best-decorated single-family home.
• Nomination period--Now through Wednes day, Dec. 9. Email nominations to: holidaycon test@bensenville.il.us
• Winners will be announced at the village board meeting on Tuesday, Dec. 13 and posted to the village’s social media platforms.
• Entries must be received via email on Dec. 9 by 5 p.m.
• Must be an incorporated Bensenville property to participate. Contest is for exterior dec orations only, including windows decorations visible from the exterior.
Editor’s note: Our next DuPage Destina tions section will be published Thursday, Nov. 24. If you have information on an event in DuP age County taking place after Nov. 24 that you would like us to consider listing here, please email that information to: news1@rvpublishing.com
Friday, Nov. 11 through Sunday, Nov. 13
Wheaton Park District Children’s Playhouse presents Mary Poppins Jr. Presented by the Wheaton Park District (211 N. Main St.), this musical is based on the sto ries of P.L. Travers and the Walt Disney film. Show times are 7 p.m. Nov. 11, noon and 2
p.m. Nov. 12 and 2 p.m. Nov. 13. Admission: $8. For more information, call 630-690-4880 or visit: https://wheatonparkdistrict.com
Fall craft and vendor show, Hinsdale South High School, Darien From 9 a.m.-2 p.m. at the high school cafe teria, 7401 Clarendon Hills Road, find unique treats and gifts for the holidays. Enjoy some shopping with family and friends. Admis sion: $2; free for children 10-and-under. For more information, visit: www.facebook.com/ events/599065368541663
the Bensenville Library, Village Hall, the po lice department, Deer Grove Leisure Center, and local businesses throughout the village. The goal is to help ensure Bensenville families in need have an opportunity to provide their children with toys this holiday season.
Nonperishable food and new or lightly used coats will also be accepted in partnership with the Bensenville-Wood Dale Rotary Coat Drive and Bensenville-Wood Dale Food Pan try. Monetary donations for purchasing toys are also welcomed and can be made online at: www.bensenvillefoundation.org.
Volunteers are needed to help wrap gifts, su pervise children, and help parents pick out toys during toy distribution day on Saturday, Dec. 3 at W.A. Johnson Elementary School. To volun teer, call 630-594-1010.
Lighting Ceremony Nov. 20
From 4:45-7 p.m. in downtown Bensenville
(12 S. Center St.) presented by the Village of Bensenville, the village kicks off a joyous hol iday season. Festivities include a holiday car parade that includes the arrival of Santa and best decorated car contest, free commemora tive ornaments, sleigh rides, and refreshments while supplies last. You will also have the op portunity to take your own pictures with Santa Claus from 5-7 p.m.
The tree lighting ceremony will begin at 7 p.m. New this year: residents and businesses are invited to decorate their cars with holiday lights and participate in a holiday car decorat ing parade and contest.
The parade will begin at Tioga School and continue down Center Street ending at the Town Center.
Winners will be announced at 6:45 p.m. pri or to the tree lighting ceremony.
To be a part of this year’s parade, register online (www.bensenville.il.us) through the vil lage’s website by Thursday, Nov. 17.
(Continued from page 7) meet with Santa and Mrs. Claus. There will be face painting and other favor ite characters like Buddy the Elf and even a Toy Soldier on stilts. For more information, visit www.burr-ridge.gov/ community/holiday.php
Join your favorite princesses from Princess Fairytale Parties for meetand-greets, photo ops, live perfor mance sand more! Register each child. Parents do not need to register. Adults are free and a max of two adults per child. Section A1 and B1 are general admission and includes meet-and-greet time, photo ops, live performances, dance party, official princess twirl les sons and a few more surprises. Section A2 and B2 are VIP and includes 30 minutes of early access, extra meetand-greet time, VIP story-reading. VIP performance from the Frozen Sisters, VIP Coronation Ceremony with Tiara and VIP autograph book to have prin cess sign.
From 6-7:30 p.m., dads or other fa ther figures will love dancing the night away at the Daddy Daughter Dance at the Itasca Recreation Center, 350 E. Ir ving Park Road. Participants will enjoy dancing, desserts, crafts, and more on this magical night. Tickets are $20-$25 per person for ages 2 and older. To reg ister, visit: itascaparkdistrict.com and use Code 220723-01.
From 9 a.m.-4 p.m. at the Commu
nity Center, 75 E. Richmond St., all your Christmas gifts can be purchased under one roof. You will be able to purchase everything from beautiful handmade items and one-of-a-kind ornaments, to holiday decorations, homemade goodies and specialty gifts. Admission is free for shoppers; the fee for crafters and small business owners who would like to participate is $45 for residents, $50 for nonresidents. For more information, call 630-969-8080 or visit: www.hollydaysfestival.com/ event/annual-holiday-craft-bazaar
Thursday, Nov. 17
Mistletoe Market at Cantigny Park, Wheaton
From 11 a.m.-7 p.m. at Cantigny Park, 1S151 Winfield Road, shop the cheery displays of local crafters and small businesses offering one-of-akind items for holiday gift-giving. The marketplace coincides with Cantigny’s festive Shades of Crimson poinsettia sale and display at the park’s green house. Admission: free with parking ($5 per vehicle). For more information, call 630-260-8126 or visit: https://can tigny.org/event/mistletoe-market
Thursday, Nov. 17 through Sunday, Dec. 18
“Seasons Greetings” at College of DuPage, Glen Ellyn
Presented by the Buffalo Theatre Ensemble at the college’s McAninch Arts Center, friends and family gather at Neville and Belinda’s home to cele
brate the holidays. Hilarious mayhem is quickly unleashed due to a tryst under the Christmas tree, an unforget table puppet show and maybe even a murder. “Season’s Greetings” offers a seriously entertaining look at the anxi ety and high jinks of an average family during the holidays. Admission: $42 for adults; $40 for seniors. For more information and show times, call 630942-4000 or visit: www.atthemac.org/ events/seasons-greetings
Presented by the DuPage County Historical Museum, 102 E. Wesley, from 5:30-9 p.m., Republic Bank of Chicago is Presenting “4EVER4,” a photo exhibition celebrating the 60th anniversary of the Beatles. Happy hour includes one glass of wine, appe tizers and the exhibit. Trivia per team includes one glass of wine, appetizers and trivia. Admission: $30 per person or $200 for a team of 5 for trivia. For more information, call 630-510-4941 or visit: https://dupagemuseum.org/ events/11-18-beatles-exhibit-happyhour-and-trivia
From 5-7 p.m. outdoors outdoors on the Village Green at the Burr Ridge Village Center, 701 Village Center Drive, Burr Ridge, Deck the Green is an event to bring in the holiday sea son. Attendees will have a chance to
Friday, Nov. 18 through Sunday, Nov. 20
Ladies Professional Racquetball Tournament Turkey shootout at Glass Court Swim & Fitness Club, Lombard
Come and watch the best female rac quetball players in the world. The club is located at 830 E. Roosevelt Road. Admission: $20 each day or $30 for the entire weekend. For more informa tion, visit: www.r2sports.com/website/ event-website.asp?TID=39960
Friday, Nov. 18 through Tuesday, Nov. 22
Winnie the Pooh—A new musical at Tivoli Theatre, Downers Grove
The classic stories of A.A. Milne come to life in a brand-new musi cal adventure, playing at the historic Tivoli Theater, 5021 Highland Ave., Friday and Saturday, Nov. 18 and 19, and Monday and Tuesday, Nov. 21 and 22. For more information and tickets, visit: https://allevents.in/downers%20 grove/winnie-the-pooh-a-new-musi cal/200023463761031
From 10 a.m.-4 p.m. at Graue Mill & Museum, 3800 York Road, Christ mas at the Mill is a holiday boutique where one can shop for artisan ceram ics, fiber, glass, jewelry and more. For more information, call 630-920-9720 or visit: www.grauemill.org/specialev ents.htm
From 9 a.m.-3 p.m. The Darien Park District announces its annual holiday craft show and sale. If you love to craft, this is the perfect opportunity to show off your talent.
All work must be original and hand made by the vendor. This holiday craft show and sale will be the perfect place to find unique, one-of-a-kind, handcrafted holiday gifts and will of fer something for everyone. The craft show will be held at the Darien Park District Community Center, 7301 Fair view Ave. For more information, visit: https://www.darienparks.com/event/adickens-of-a-holiday-craft-show
Saturday, Nov.
Illumination: Tree Lights at the Morton Arboretum, Lisle
Join in celebrating the 10th annual Illumination: Tree Lights at The Mor ton Arboretum during the Arboretum’s 100th anniversary year. Explore 50 acres of the Arboretum’s majestic trees during this one-of-a-kind spectacle of color, light, and sound featuring six dazzling new displays as well as re turning favorites. Tickets are between $10-$22 for members and $16-$27 for nonmembers. For questions about purchasing tickets, email: tickets@ mortonarb.org For more information, visit: https://mortonarb.org/explore/ac tivities/exhibitions/illumination/
From 7-9 p.m. presented by the Downers Grove Park District at the Downers Grove Golf Club, 2420 Haddow Ave., for ages 21-and-over, bring the aroma and sights of winter indoors with this special holiday ev ergreens class. Choose between mak ing a wreath, door swag, or table cen terpiece with locally harvested fresh greens, while enjoying a wide selec tion of wines, beers and spirits from our cash bar, alongside free helpings of hot chocolate, apple cider and other treats. Price: $25. For more informa tion, call 630-960-7500 or visit: https:// www.dgparks.org/calendar/events/hol iday-spirits---evergreens
From 11 a.m.-2 p.m. at DoubleTree Suites by Hilton Hotel & Conference Center Chicago-Downers Grove, 2111 Butterfield Road, Downers Grove, en joy the crisp fall air while you brunch at the Doubletree Downers Grove. Live music sounds coming from the patio are sure to go well with fluffy pancakes, crispy chicken tenders and bottomless mimosas. Kids under 6 eat free. Pre-purchase your tickets on line. Go to: https://allevents.in/down ers%20grove/brunch-and-live-musicin-downers-grove/200023059216243#
From 9 a.m.-3 p.m. stop by Acker man SFC, 800 St. Charles Road, for a combination blood drive and drive-th ru drop-off food drive. Food drive: Fill the shelves at Glen Ellyn Food Pantry
(age 16 w/par ent permission slip). Appointments are encouraged for blood donors but walk ups are welcome.
Wednesday, Nov. 23
Wood Dale library hosting family photos of Santa’s Toy Shop
The Wood Dale Public Library will offer the opportunity for fami
your 2022 family photo for your hol iday card at the red storefront of San ta’s Toy Shop. CONNOR VANDERBRUG 630-359-0946 114 W VALLETTE ELMHURST cvanderbrug@allstate.com
at 426634
Christ the King Church 1501 S. Main St., Lombard Saturday, Nov. 19 9 a.m. - 3 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 20 9 a.m. - 1:30 p.m. See You There!
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!
Addison Trail alumnus Nich olas D’Ambrose (class of 2018) has been named as one of 15 finalists for the 2022 William V. Campbell Trophy®. D’Ambrose is a running back at the Univer sity of Chicago, where he is pur suing a major in neuroscience and a minor in chemistry. The 15 finalists were selected from 156 semifinalists nationwide, from among all NCAA divisions and the NAIA. Each finalist will re ceive an $18,000 postgraduate scholarship as a member of the 2022 NFF National Scholar-Ath lete Class Presented by Fidelity Investments®. The winner will be announced during the 64th NFF Annual Awards Dinner on Dec. 6 in Las Vegas.
Snowmen on display at Fischer Farm through Dec. 31
The Bensenville Park District is giving local residents and businesses a chance to adopt a four-foot snow man to be displayed through the month of December at Fischer Farm, 16W680 Grand Avenue.
“Who wants to decorate another Christmas Tree?” asked manager of facilities and special events Todd Linder. “Why not decorate a snow man that is guaranteed not to melt?”
After paying the $5 adoption fee at the Deer Grove Leisure Center, a snowman will be available to deco rate from Wednesday, Nov. 23 to Sat urday, Dec. 3. Each snowman will be displayed at the Farmside Christmas and tree lighting on Sunday, Dec. 4 from 2 to 5 p.m., and will remain at Fischer Farm through the month for all to enjoy.
Visit BvilleParks.org for more information about adopting a snow man or other park district holiday programs.
As I’m sure you know, Paul Pelosi, the husband of House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, was brutally assaulted at their home in San Francisco by an intruder whose intended goal was to kidnap the speaker.
My thoughts and prayers are with Mr. Pelosi and the entire Pelosi family as he recovers from severe injuries sustained from the attack that required surgery. I was heartened by news that Mr. Pelosi has been released from the hospital.
In the wake of this horrific attack, I’ve been struck by the disturbing broader surge in political violence and extremism we’ve witnessed over the last few years, with the Jan. 6 insurrection being the most highprofile example.
Recently, I joined Fredricka Whitfield on CNN Newsroom to discuss this rise in political extremism and violence and what we can do to prevent future attacks on our elected officials and their family members. Regardless of our party, ideology, or background, we must all come together to send a clear message that political violence is never acceptable against anyone at any time.
Safe Kids Worldwide and the need for increased booster seat safety
I was recently honored to receive the Child Passenger Safety Award from Safe Kids Worldwide, a nonprofit that specializes in working to prevent childhood injuries through increased safety measures, such as booster seat regulation.
As a parent myself, I know firsthand the importance of keeping our kids safe, especially because motor vehicle accidents are one of the leading causes of severe injury and death for American children.
In fact, 139,042 related injuries occurred in 2020 alone, according to the Department of Transportation. That’s why I’ve led the charge in Congress to address the widespread sale and use of unsafe child booster seats.
As Chairman of the Oversight Subcommittee on Economic and Consumer Policy, I led the investigation that revealed that booster seat manufacturers misled parents about the effectiveness of their products in collision testing while also failing to properly label what size children their products could protect, and flat-out skipping safety procedures recommended by the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP).
In response to the potentially deadly booster seat safety issues I identified, I introduced
State Senator Suzy Glowiak Hilton is reminding households to check and change their smoke detector batteries as needed. If you find an alarm that is not working or is expired, replace the alarm immediately with a new 10-year sealed battery alarm.
“Working smoke alarms are one of the best and least expensive means of providing an early warning of a po tentially deadly fire in your home,” said Senator Glowiak Hilton. “[It] is a simple way to help keep your family members and pets safe from harm.”
Between the years 2014-18, the National Fire Protection Association reported that almost three out of every five home fire deaths in the U.S. result ed from fires in homes with no smoke alarms or non-working smoke alarms. The chances of dying in a home fire were reduced by 55% in homes where working smoke alarms were present.
For more information, visit the Illi nois Fire Safety Alliance at IFSA.org.
Editor’s note: This was submitted by the office of State Senator Suzy Glowi ak Hilton.
the Booster Seat Safety Act to force manufacturers to follow pediatrician-approved guidelines by providing clear and consistent standards for booster seat labeling, testing, and use.
Additionally, my bill would require the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration to develop side impact testing
standards for all booster seats while addressing current safety failures and misleading advertising claims that put kids at risk.
Raja Krishnamoorthi represents Illinois’ 8th Congressional District, which includes parts of Addison, Wood Dale, Elmhurst, Bensenville, Villa Park and Lombard.
This morning I woke up late. I’d planned on an earlier day, but sleep had other plans. As I got up and got ready for the rest of my day, My cat lounged comfortably under the covers. She made a snoozy sound and curled into herself for some more and much-needed even-later morning sleep. It was at that moment I realized something important.
I want to be more like my cat.
I want to sleep in late, when I feel like it and take a nap later because that feels good too.
But that’s only the beginning.
I want to bask in the sunshine. My kitty can find a spot of sunshine in any room at any time any day When she does, she puts herself smack dab in the middle of it and sets out to do what she does best: relax and soak it all in.
I want to live in the moment. My kitty gets a special treat every day at 4 p.m., but she doesn’t worry about this at 11 a.m. or even 3 p.m.. At 11 she is most likely sleeping and at 3 most likely napping. She isn’t worried about the treats in her future. She just lives (or sleeps as the case may be) in the moment. When it is treat time, she enters the kitchen with tail held high and happy—a sign of confidence— because that is all that living in the moment requires.
I want to eat the good treats first—at least sometimes. These days my diet focuses on two things: Health and hydration. My kitty hardly ever ponders health. I do that for her. She has heathy cat food and then slightly less healthy treats. She always eats the treats first because they taste better. I get that. I also get health. It’s a balance. Between the two of us, we are working on it.
I want to strut my stuff. My kitty walks with her tail held high, clearly proud of her new collar, and especially its bell. It announces her presence in a room and she seems to revel in this power.
I want to purr from deep within, without even knowing why or how this occurs. I want others to know I’m happy because my joy resonates so loudly that it can’t be ignored.
I want to land on my feet. Cats have an uncanny ability to jump from high places and consistently and conveniently land on all fours. I want to conquer any adversity in my path and come out on the other end still standing.
By JILL PERTLER ColumnistI want to keep it neat, complete and inside the litter box.
Cats know and recognize some of the basic tenets of life—like pooping. They don’t get all messy with their urination or defection. We all have messiness in our lives. Cats understand this and keep it contained – in a box. I’d love to take all of the messy aspects of my life and box them up.
On the flip side, my cat thinks outside the litter box. She loves to look out the windows to the outside world. Her inside world is only enhanced by the world outside— even if it is safer for her to view it from behind a pane of glass.
This doesn’t deter her. Not in the least. She still quivers at the sight of a squirrel or bird. She hunts them without hunting, but at the same time with the wildness of a lioness. It’s a sight to see. Her imagination and resourcefulness are to be admired.
When given the chance, she embraces the chance to be outdoors, beyond the glass, in the truest sense. She’s been known to track mice, snakes, birds, squirrels and any critters worth crittering with near reckless abandon. I appreciate her passion and love of adventure.
I want to think outside the box and pursue adventure whenever the door is open—or whenever given the chance.
I want to be honest and unapologetic in all that I do. My cat doesn’t fake it. If she loves you, she lets you know—wholeheartedly. If she harbors distain for you, well, ditto. She is either all-in or all-out and there is no guessing about where she stands. She isn’t a people pleaser, yet she pleases me all the time. She walks the line without ever walking the line, and I love her for her honesty.
That, and her gorgeous collar.
Jill Pertler is an award-winning syndicated columnist, published playwright and author. She invites readers to follow the Slices of Life page on Facebook.
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DON MACIAS 630-641-4794 630-402-8332
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