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Rock Valley Publishing

TAKE ONE

Thursday, Dec. 26, 2024

Bensenville

Independent

WINTER-SPRING RE GISTRATION BEGINS JAN. 6 In-District | JAN. 7 General Publi c View program guide on line at BvilleParks.org

also serving Wood Dale

VOL. 22 • NO. 2

WWW.THEINDEPENDENTNEWSPAPERS.COM

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THURSDAY, DEC. 26, 2024

Bensenville celebrates spectacular 25th annual Holiday Ice Show The Edge Ice Arena was the center of holiday magic as the Village of Bensenville recently celebrated the 25th annual Holiday Ice Show.

The event drew an enthusiastic crowd of families, friends, and community members who came together to witness the dazzling performances of skaters from the village’s Learn to Skate and Competitive Skating programs.

The show highlighted the incredible talent and dedication of local skaters, who performed a variety of routines that showcased their skills, creativity and holiday spirit.

From graceful beginner skaters to seasoned competitors, every performance was met with cheers and applause from the packed arena.

“This year’s Holiday Ice Show was nothing short of spectacular,” said Village President Frank DeSimone. “It’s always wonderful to see our community come together to support our skaters and celebrate the holiday season in such a festive and memorable way. Events like these are what make Bensenville a special place to live.”

Special thanks are extended to the coaches, volunteers, and staff who worked tirelessly to make this event a success. Their efforts not only brought joy to attendees, but highlighted the strong sense of community in Bensenville. For more information about skating programs and upcoming events at the Edge Ice Arena, visit Bensenville.gov.

Bensenville shows strong support for Bensenville Wood Dale Food Pantry The Village of Bensenville, along with the Bensenville Community Foundation, has helped raise vital funds for the Bensenville Wood Dale Food Pantry during the final months of 2024.

Previous years saw the CPKC Holiday Train visit the community along with a donation to the Food Pantry.

Upon hearing that the CPKC Holiday Train would not be stopping in Bensenville this year, numerous individuals, elected officials, community organizations and local businesses of all sizes have shown enormous generosity by donating thousands of dollars—making a big difference for families in need.

“The support we’ve received for the Bensenville Food Pantry has been nothing short of extraordinary.

In times of need, the Bensenville community has consistently stepped up to ensure that no one goes hungry.

This outpouring of kindness demonstrates the true spirit Bensenville Strong, and I am incredibly proud to serve as Village President alongside such compassionate residents and businesspeople,” said Village President Frank DeSimone.

A check for $16,762.10 was presented to the Bensenville Wood Dale Food Pantry at the Holiday Magic Tree Lighting Ceremony on Nov. 24, and the raised funds after the weekend totaled $18,772.10.

Monetary donations can be made to the Bensenville Wood Dale Food Pantry year-round at: www.bensenvillefoundation.org/donate or www. bwdfp.org

Inside:

Speak out.................5 Sports ��������������� 11-12 Police.......................6 Classified...........14-15

SUBMITTED PHOTOS Bensenville Independent

The 25th annual Holiday Ice Show held at The Edge Ice Arena in Bensenville featured participants from the village’s Learn to Skate and Competitive Skating programs.

Village of Bensenville’s 2024 Holiday Toy Drive a success

The annual Village Holiday Toy Drive was a huge success and saw over 2,500 toys donated to Bensenville families in need this season.

Every year the village accepts donations through the end of November with donation drop boxes located throughout Bensenville.

The outpouring of support from the entire community will help bring joy to local children this holiday season.

A special thank you to all the local organizations, businesses, and individuals who made significant contributions to the 2024 Holiday Toy Drive.

“The Holiday Toy Drive is a wonderful example of the spirit of giving that defines our Bensenville community. As we come together to support families in need, we not only bring joy to children this holiday season, but also strengthen the bonds that make our village such a special place,” said Village President Frank DeSimone. “I am proud of the generosity shown by residents, local businesses, and toy drive volunteers who have made this year’s distribution a success.

Together we are making a real difference in the lives of our neighbors and ensuring that the holiday season is brighter for everyone in Bensenville.

We sincerely thank all who donated, volunteered, and continue to support one of SUBMITTED PHOTO Bensenville Independent Bensenville’s Over, 2,500 toys were donated to Bensenville families in need during Bensenoldest ville’s annual holiday toy drive. traditions.”

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Rock Valley Publishing

Thursday, Dec. 26, 2024

Giannoulias unveils relocated and reimagined Lombard DMV New facility leverages drive-through kiosk to offer improved services around the clock ing up with the growing population in DuPage County. Its small size and the technical limitations often created nightmares for customers with long lines and long wait times.” Giannoulias said. “The new facility will pair the efficiency of our ‘One-Stop-Shop’ model with the convenience of our ‘Fast-Lane’ kiosk initiative to create new synergies to the benefit of our customers and employees.”

“It’s great to see the expansion of vital services to Lombard,” said State Sen. Laura Ellman (21st District-Naperville). “I commend everyone involved with the project and look forward to hearing from my constituents about their experiences in this new DMV.” “As elected officials, we need to do everything we can to make it pleasant and convenient for people to access the state services they need, whether they’re renewing a driver’s license, replacing the sticker on a car’s li-

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One of the state’s busiest DMVs has relocated and is now offering 24-hours-a-day, seven-days-a-week renewal services through the state’s first drive-through DMV kiosk. The new facility uses a data-driven design to cut wait times and improve the overall customer experience, Illinois Secretary of State Alexi Giannoulias announced.

The state’s west-suburban Lombard DMV re-opened last week at its new location, 837 Westmore-Meyers Road, Unit A2, conveniently located in Eastgate Center—the same shopping center as the former location.

For years, the Lombard facility has been one of the state’s busiest facilities. In 2023, the Lombard location completed more than 134,000 vehicle transactions—the most of any of the 143 facilities in the state—and nearly 125,000 driver-related services—the fifth most in the state and the most of any DMV outside of Chicago.

“The Lombard DMV wasn’t keep-

cense plate, or getting a state ID,” said State Rep. Terra Costa Howard (42nd District-Lombard). “This new DMV facility in Lombard will provide a much-improved experience for people in our communities.”

The new location will include the following amenities: • 24/7 DMV services. The facility will offer a drive-through kiosk, the first of its kind in the state. This provides motorists 24-hours-a-day, sevendays-a-week access to renew vehicle registrations, obtain license plate stickers and renew their driver’s licenses – even outside of normal business hours.

• Cross-trained employees. The Lombard DMV is among the first facilities in the Chicago area constructed as a “One-Stop-Shop.” Driver services and vehicle services employees at “One-Stop-Shop” DMVs are crosstrained to provide both sets of services at all 30 customer stations.

• Fewer steps. Each of the 30 customer service stations is equipped with a payment station, compared to just five at the old location, so customers no longer need to visit multiple stations and encounter waits.

• Bigger space. At 13,600 square feet, the new facility is 1,600 square feet larger than the former DMV. More space coupled with the fact that all employees can service drivers and vehicle transactions will reduce lines and waits.

• Administrative hearings. The DMV will conduct reinstatement hearings to decide cases involving driver’s licenses suspended for driving-related offenses, including driving without insurance, driving under the influence, or having too many traffic violations.

• Charging stations. The Secretary of State’s office will offer 18 EV charging stations for customers beginning in 2025.

Independent Living, Assisted Living & Memory Care in Lombard, Illinois

SUBMITTED PHOTOS Rock Valley Publishing

The new Lombard DMV facility at 837 Westmore-Mayers Road features 24-hours-a-day, seven-days-a-week renewal services through the state’s first drive-through DMV kiosk.

Coming events

Lombard Historical Society holiday hours The Lombard Historical Society staff office, historic sites and gift shop will be closed through Jan. 6. Offices and the gift shop will reopen on Jan. 7, while historic sites will remain closed until further notice. Visit lombardhistory.org for more information.

Lombard blood drive Jan. 14 The Village of Lombard will hold a Versiti blood Drive Tuesday, Jan. 14, from 1:30-7 p.m. at First Church of Lombard - Fellowship Hall, 220 S. Main St., Lombard. Radon test kits will be handed out free while supplies last to all donors during the blood drive. The drive will also be held in the Versiti mobile coach at the lower level Von Maur - Mall Entrance Circle, 203 Yorktown Shopping Center, Lombard, from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. Appointments appreciated; walk-ins welcome. To schedule, go to www.versiti.org/IL, load the Versiti Donor app, call (800) 7TO-GIVE.

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Thursday, Dec. 26, 2024

Rock Valley Publishing

Page 3A

Bensenville celebrates seniors at annual Holiday Luncheon The The Village of Bensenville hosted The senior luncheon featured a of Bensenville’s ongoing efforts to community.

“This year’s event was a wonder- IndependenT its annual Senior Holiday Luncheon holiday meal, raffles, and opportu- engage and support its senior resDec. 13 at Monty’s Elegant Ban- nities for seniors to connect with idents, fostering a strong sense of ful opportunity to celebrate and exBensenville friends and elected officials. The event has become an annual tradition in the village, offering an occasion to honor the senior community and spread festive cheer during the holiday season. It is part

community.

“We are always happy to host this special event for our senior residents,” said Village President Frank DeSimone. “The Senior Holiday Luncheon is not just about sharing a meal together; it’s about recognizing the important role our seniors play in making Bensenville such a strong

press our gratitude to the generations that have shaped our village.”

The event was open to Bensenville residents age 60 and older, and reservations were required.

The luncheon was attended by a large group of seniors who enjoyed the festive atmosphere and camaraderie that the event provided.

Park district announces 2025 board meeting schedule The Bensenville Park District’s governed by five elected officials Board of Commissioners recently who set the policies for the operation approved its 2025 meeting schedule, of the district. with a single meeting each month.

Park commissioners are elected by The board will meet at 5:30 p.m. residents of the district to a six-year on the third Wednesday of each term without pay. month at the Deer Grove Leisure Current commissioners include Center, 1000 W. Wood St., Bensen- Christopher Hernandez, Nancy ville.

Gibbs (secretary), Jay Snyder (treaThe scheduled meeting dates are surer), Valerie Karg (vice president) as follows: and Rich Johnson (president).

• Jan. 15, 2025 It is only the Park Board, acting • Feb, 19 at a legally constituted meeting, • March 19 which has the authority to establish • April 16 or change policy, sign agreements or • May 21 award contracts. The Park Board ap• June 18 points an executive director to manSUBMITED PHOTO Rock Valley Publishing • July 16 age the day-to-day operations of the Those who attended the annual Senior Holiday Luncheon were • Aug. 20 district. treated to an afternoon of fun, food, music, and community spirit.

• Sept. 17 Board meeting agendas, staff • Oct. 15 reports, and meeting minutes are • Nov. 19 posted online through the Bensen• Dec. 17 ville Park District’s website at BvilWinter break family swim and facility capacity.

The Bensenville Park District is leParks.org.

The Water’s Edge Aquatic Center Level 2: The least common peis offering winter break family swim. riod of extreme cold weather with Children under 12 swim free with a high demand for general public and adult through through Jan. 5. warming facilities. Level 2 events Family swims will be held Tuesdays occur during extreme cold temperathrough Fridays from 9 a.m.-3 p.m., tures along with mass power outagand Saturdays and Sundays from es. During Level 2 events, we will noon-3 p.m. announce the opening of traditional The facility will be closed on New warming center facilities to the genYear’s Eve and New Year’s day. For eral public while maintaining federal more information, contact The Wa- and state COVID regulations. ter’s Edge Aquatic Center at 630Warming centers in Bensenville 766-8888. are located at the Bensenville Public Library, 200 S. Church Road, and Warming centers Bensenville Village Hall, 12 S. Cenavailable upon request ter St. Exposure to extreme cold can cause a variety of health problems, Holiday lights with hypothermia being the most recycling program serious. Warming Centers are heated Don’t throw away your tangled, facilities where any resident can go frayed or burned-out Christmas during periods of extreme cold tem- lights this year. The village offers reperatures to stay warm and safe. cycling of Christmas tree lights and However, the use of warming extension cords. centers can result in congregating Bensenville has partnered with Elof groups of at-risk people, such as gin Recycling (elginrecycling.com) older adults or those with respiratory to offer Holiday Light Recycling free diseases, and potentially provide a of charge. route for the transmission of disease Bring any type of holiday string among both visitors and staff. lights including LEDs, Italian miniWith this mind, the Bensenville lights, and rope lights—working or SUBMITTED PHOTO Rock Valley Publishing Emergency Management Agency not—to one of the following locahas implemented a two-level system tions for recycling. to assist in the allocation of resources Bins are indoors and only availduring an extreme cold event. able for drop-off during business Level 1: The most common peri- hours through the end of February. od of extreme cold weather with the Drop off your holiday lights at The Village of Addison held its annual Christmas parades lowest demand for general public Bensenville Village Hall, 12 S. CenDec. 6 and 13. The Village Board, the Addison Police Departwarming facilities. ter St., from 8 a.m.-5 p.m. Monday, ment and the Addison Fire Protection District brought holiday During these events, residents in Wednesday, Thursday and Friday; 8 cheer to Addison neighborhoods during two evening parades. need of temporary warming options a.m.-6:30 p.m. Tuesdays and 9 a.m.Santa Claus waved to residents as he traveled on board an Adare required to contact the Emer- noon Saturdays., and at Bensenville dison fire engine, while spectators along the routes tracked the gency Management Agency at (630) Public Works, 717 E. Jefferson, from parade with a special “Santa Tracker” app.

350-3461 for a warming center refer- 7 a.m.-3:30 p.m. Monday through ral based on determination of need Friday.

Bensenville news

Santa takes part in Addison Christmas parades

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

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Subscriptions: The Independent is mailed to the 60101, 60106 and 60181 zip code areas for $45 yearly. Out-of-area mail subscriptions are $50 yearly.

For home delivery information call 630.834-8244.

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quets.

Hosted by the Bensenville Heritage Center, the event brought together senior residents for an afternoon of fun, food, music, and community spirit.

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Rock Valley Publishing

Thursday, Dec. 26, 2024

Whispering Pines Reindeer Ranch & Tree Farm delivers holiday glee

By Celeste Huttes

ILLINOIS FARM BUREAU PARTNERS

“In hindsight, I wish I had listened better to Mark,” Randy says.

“He told me to take all the money I was going to spend on Christmas trees and buy another reindeer or two. Reindeer have turned into our major focus, and they are actually less work than the Christmas trees.”

Before buying any reindeer of their own, the Espes joined the Reindeer Owners and Breeders Association (ROBA) and the Reindeer Farmers Association (RFA) to learn how to responsibly breed and care for reindeer. By 2018, they felt ready to welcome their first four reindeer from Alaska. Today, their herd numbers more than a dozen.

Every morning, Randy and Beth Espe watch reindeer frolic outside their kitchen window as they sip their morning coffee—a delightful daily ritual they have fondly dubbed the “rodeo.”

Santa himself would envy their view.

“When they go out into the pasture, they get giddy because it’s cool, and that’s their playtime,” Randy says of the reindeer. “They run, they jump, they kick, they spin. It’s pretty amazing to see.”

And so, the day begins at Whispering Pines Reindeer Ranch & Tree Farm in Shabbona, where the Espe family’s labor of love grew Arctic adaptability into a beloved holiday tradition for A close but more laid-back couscountless families. in to the caribou, reindeer represent a distinct subspecies and longtime Reining in holiday cheer friends to humans.

What might seem an unlikely “The Laplanders domesticated retirement gig comes as a slight reindeer thousands of years ago,” surprise to those who know Randy says Randy, referring to the Sami well. people of the northern regions of “People would bring me aban- Scandinavia. “Reindeer are to the doned and orphaned animals when Laplanders what the buffalo was to I was young,” Randy says. “We the American Indian.” raised a lot of raccoons, a pet fox, Far from their native lands in the a little bit of everything. I always Arctic and mountainous regions of dreamed about raising white-tailed eastern Europe, Siberia and Scandeer at some point. But reindeer dinavia, reindeer living in Illinois turned out to be a better choice be- require special care. According to cause they are domesticated. You Randy, ticks and heat present the can snap a halter on them and walk biggest challenges. them around on a lead rope—and Reindeer delight in frigid winter you can just sit and love on them.” weather. During warmer months, His dream of deer became a re- the reindeer typically stay in the ality after Beth retired from North- barn throughout the day, emerging ern Illinois University and Randy at dawn and dusk to graze in cooler wrapped up a 40-year career in the temperatures. seed business. As they started a secThose amazing antlers—grown ond act in life, the couple set aside by both males and females—also 18 acres to grow the small Christ- present a serious safety hazard for mas tree operation they began years reindeer. Sprawling like a tree canearlier on the family farm. opy, the antlers can easily become As Randy researched ways to wedged in a fence or gate. promote Christmas trees, he dis“Reindeer antlers go in all differcovered Hardy’s Reindeer Ranch ent directions,” Randy says. “It’s in Rantoul. He visited owner Mark one of the bigger challenges of Hardy for some tips and promptly working with them. We’ve done evfell in love with reindeer. erything we can to make our fenc-

Food pantry donation

ing safer and try to eliminate places they can get caught.”

Randy notes the steep learning curve involved with raising a nonnative animal and the importance of joining organizations like RFA and ROBA to learn from others’ experiences.

“A lot of products you might typically use for farm animals are not labeled for reindeer,” Randy says.

“We medicate them like sheep, feed them like a cow because they’re ruminant, and treat their hair and skin like a horse because they’re sensitive.”

Magical moments The Espes have also learned reindeer have a magic all their own.

With their friendly natures and impressive appearance, the Espes’ reindeer often outshine Santa at the many holiday events they attend.

“The reindeer always create a lot of excitement,” Randy says. “Kids just get giddy, and their eyes light up. It’s heartwarming to see how much happiness they bring.”

Every Thanksgiving weekend, the Espes open their ranch to the public for a holiday experience, complete with Santa, reindeer and countless Christmas trees. Eight varieties of evergreen trees grow at Whispering Pines Reindeer Ranch & Tree Farm, and 2024 marks the first year you can cut your own.

You will also find the Espe family and their reindeer at holiday festivals, Christmas parades and tree-lighting ceremonies across northern and central Illinois throughout the holiday season. To further delight young visitors, Randy and Beth’s three daughters dress up as elves.

Beth recalls a young boy named Fritz who was only mildly excited to see Santa and his reindeer. He told Beth he was really there to see the elf, Ginger Bells, because he follows her on TikTok and thought she was “awesome.”

“Ginger Bells is my daughter,

SUBMITTED PHOTO Rock Valley Publishing

Whispering Pines Reindeer Ranch & Tree Farm owner Randy Espe brings holiday glee to seasonal events with his reindeer. The ranch and tree farm is located in Shabbona, and is owned and operated by Randy and his wife, Beth.

Allie, and she’s very into her role,” Beth says. “Seeing those smiles and hearing those laughs and giggles—it’s the best thing ever.”

From watching their reindeer prance in the pasture to seeing faces light up at the sight of them, the Espes are living their dream.

“Reindeer are such playful and magnificent animals. When they run and jump in the pasture, it looks like they’re learning to fly,”

Randy says. “We are blessed to get to see that every day. Reindeer have become part of who we are.

And the way they make people feel is magical.”

This story was distributed through a cooperative project between Illinois Farm Bureau and the Illinois Press Association. For more food and farming news, visit ILFBpartners.com.

SUBMITTED PHOTO Rock Valley Publishing

On Monday, Dec. 9, members of Lombard VFW Lilac Post #5815 returned to York Township Hall to present York Township Supervisor John W. Valle with another big-hearted donation to the York Township Food Pantry. The funds will be used to keep pantry shelves stocked for the holidays. Valle said, “On behalf of our pantry clients and staff I once again commend the members of Lilac Post #5815 for their public-spirited service and their ongoing commitment to partner with York Township to move the needle on hunger in our community.” Pictured (left to right) are Valle; Food Pantry Director Angela Tanner; Post Commander Tom Zilla; and members Michelangelo Di Cosola, Rich Carsley, Tony Massa, Tony Maroney, Gene Rymut, Barney Bucholz, Dennis Jensen and Chuck Grafton.

BOB BIDDLE PHOTO Rock Valley Publishing

Donations help local pantry

Altar’d State at Oakbrook Center offered photos with Mrs. Claus on Monday, Dec. 9, with donations going to The Outreach House in Lombard. They’re also hosting a coat and feminine care collection drive at the store through the end of the month. Pictured (left to right) are Catherine Lynott from The Outreach House, Mrs. Claus and elf helper Raffaella Maffiola.

Thursday, Dec. 26, 2024

I read with mixed feelings in the Dec. 19 issue of Speak Out the announcement of Villa Park Police Officer Kordell Kitching’s retirement. I do not know Officer Kitching personally, but in the seven years I have been in this town I have had several casual interactions with this man, mostly at charity events, all positive. I always came away with the impression that this is a person who sincerely loves his job. His imposing stature is diffused by his friendliness to our citizens, willingness to volunteer for worthy causes and always having that infectious smile on his face. I say mixed feelings because I am sorry to see him go after his 20 years with the village which he served so well; yet he is a relatively young man who probably has a very bright future in his retirement. Congratulations to Officer Kitching on his exemplary dedication to service and for the example of good will he passed on to our residents. I’m grateful for his service and wish him well. *** Hey, York Township. Is it me or did more people put Halloween decorations out then Christmas decorations?

Keep Christ in Christmas. Thank you. *** So, by the time you read this I hope the government is not shut down as Trump wants it to be (on Dec. 19). An incoming president should be able to have an opinion on events before he is inaugurated, but to shut the government down with a “tweet”? And he only tweeted because his co-president told him to? Musk has never had to negotiate with anyone because he has all the money and it’s always been his way or the highway. I sincerely hope that more Republicans stand up to Trump. We know there most likely will be nothing accomplished in the next four years as Trump does not have enough votes to do much, and his “executive orders” will not be followed by the military and turned down by the Supreme Court. We must hope and

pray to get through the next four years, although we have elections in less than two years which will probably change the balance in the House and Senate.

I can hardly wait to see the fight for a new Speaker as Johnson’s days are numbered. *** Regarding the school shooting in Madison, Wisconsin, I read that the police chief stated schools should not have metal detectors because schools are “a safe place.” Apparently not anymore. How naïve, in my opinion.

And as for the shooter, a teenage girl, he said the police department had no prior contact with her, and so far, the school has not said there were any issues. Sometimes these kids believe that students, teachers, etc., are the problem (that they are being bullied or don’t feel heard when they report it), so they don’t see a need to seek help.

Also, these students often hide their distress very well, so adults or other students don’t know there’s a problem, until it boils over. As if teachers don’t have enough on their plate these days besides teaching—and as someone with a degree in education from back in the 1980s, identifying a student in distress was not a high priority in the curriculum—I think teacher workshops, further training, etc., would be a good use of their time and our taxpayer dollars to help identify and work with students who may be at risk, just like many police officers are receiving training in crisis intervention. And I have no problem with metal detectors in schools if it prevents mass murder. *** I am disappointed in our local churches for not having a “blue Christmas” or “longest night” service for those of us who are grieving over the holidays. The closest one I could find was in Wheaton. I had finally decided I would attend such a service, and to my surprise, there was not one in the Lombard or Villa Park area, at least that was

How Speak Out works • Speak Out is a forum in which readers can express their opinion anonymously concerning local, state, national and international topics.

Each call is limited to 200 words whether the caller calls 630-629TALK or emails their opinion to speakout@rvpublishing.com.

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• 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.

listed in any newspapers I read. Here’s hoping for a happy new year. I predict we will have a tumultuous time ahead come Jan. 20. *** Ah-ha, another grand call-in regarding the holy grail of choice. I quote, “If the people are against abortion then don’t do it; give the right to those who want to choose.” (Dec. 12 issue.) Let’s go back to another disgraceful time in our history and say, “If the people are against slavery, then don’t do it; give the right to those who want to choose.”

How absurd! Right is right and wrong is wrong no matter how you word it.

May God open the eyes and hearts of people in this country and forgive us for the slaughter of these innocent lives. *** There was a time when someone who is charged with murder was universally scorned by society. That doesn’t seem to be the case with Luigi

Mangione. There are people out there who somehow see this scum as being a folk hero and a sex symbol. Then I saw a poll of 1,000 registered voters conducted by Emerson College. In that poll, 41 percent of voters between the ages of 18 and 29 said the UnitedHealthcare CEO killing was “acceptable” or “somewhat acceptable.” I find this to be appalling. *** The guardians of our cherished democracy are us, the American citizen with all of our faults. It is us. It is not the Democratic Party nor the Republican Party. It’s us the citizens. The last election, I voted for the person that I thought could move our country forward in the positive direction. Remember that we are the caretakers of our democracy and our freedom. *** Yes, just wondering what happened to the Lombardian and didn’t have any Lombardians at Jewel Dec. 19 or 20.

Coming event

Tree care series Illinois Extension’s Community Tree Care Series is back and ready to help everyone learn how to support tree health in their local landscapes. The hybrid series is a training opportunity for individuals performing tree care work and looking to build on their knowledge. Topics range from tree basics to identification, health assessment, and pruning techniques. The hybrid model provides two forms of training, which offer online webinars and in-person workshops.

First are six winter webinar sessions from 9 to 10:30 a.m., spanning two Wednesdays a month from January through March. Each webinar covers two main topics per date. The

Rock Valley Publishing

Page 5

What’s going on with the Lombardian and Merry Christmas. *** I see our dear lame duck walking statue currently in the White House has issued 8,027 pardons so far, including one to his son. All the presidents since Dwight Eisenhower have issued 8,096 pardons combined. Let that sink in for a minute. I wouldn’t be surprised if Biden pardons himself before January 20th. *** As I’m reading about the tragic shooting at the Abundant Life Christian School in Madison, Wisconsin and the shooting in New York City where the CEO of UnitedHealthcare was killed, this thought came to mind: I noticed the left once again was calling for gun control after the Madison, Wisconsin shooting, but there were no calls for gun control after the killing of the UnitedHealthcare CEO. Wondering why that is.

cost is $10 for general access to all sessions and $50 for those seeking Continued Education Units for access to all sessions. Registration is required, and individuals can attend one, some, or all sessions. One hour of CEUs is available per session to Illinois Arborist Association certified arborists who qualify. During registration, please specify attendance as a certified professional seeking CEUs. To register, visit go.illinois.edu/TreeCareSeries. If you need a reasonable accommodation to participate in this program, contact Emily Swihart at eswihart@illinois.edu, 217-3331677. Early requests are strongly encouraged to allow sufficient time to meet your access needs.

Glenbard District 87 board appoints next superintendent The Glenbard Township High School District 87 Board of Education is pleased to announce the appointment of Glenbard South High School Principal Jessica Santee as Glenbard District 87’s next superintendent, effective July 1, 2025. The board approved Santee’s appointment on Dec. 16.

Jessica Santee Santee will succeed Superintendent David Larson, who previously announced that he will retire at the end of the 2024-25 school year. Larson has been Glenbard’s superintendent since 2012.

Santee said, “Glenbard District 87 is a community deeply committed to fostering student learning and engagement. We hold a shared belief that all students and staff have the capacity to learn, grow, and excel.

This mindset of continuous improvement is at the heart of our strategic efforts and reflects who we are as educators.

“I am honored to lead this remarkable district as we work collectively to expand access and opportunities for every student. Together, we will empower our students to discover their identity, aspirations, and pathways as they prepare for success beyond high school.

“This is a transformative time for Glenbard, marked by the largest facility improvement projects in our district’s history and significant advancements in dual credit opportunities and career exploration programs.

I am excited to continue collaborating with our greater Glenbard community and am deeply grateful for the opportunity to serve as your superintendent.”

Santee has served as principal at Glenbard South since 2021. Prior to that, she was Glenbard South’s assistant principal of instruction from July 2019-June 2021. Before coming to Glenbard, Santee was Lisle Community High School’s assistant principal for curriculum and instruction from July 2016-June 2019.

Prior to that, she was York Community High School’s division chair for research and social sciences from July 2014-June 2016. Also at York, Santee was a social studies teacher from 2008-16 and department coordinator from 2012-14.

Santee is in the final steps of pursuing a doctorate in educational administration leadership from Aurora University. She has a master’s degree of educational leadership, principal preparation program from North Central College and a master’s degree of secondary education from University of Cincinnati. Santee earned a bachelor’s degree in political science and criminology from The Ohio State University.

Glenbard District 87 Board of Education President Margaret DeLaRosa said, “The board is delighted to offer the superintendent’s position to Ms. Jessica Santee. Glenbard was fortunate to have an extremely talented group of candidates for this position and the input from our community.

“Ms. Santee demonstrates a deep understanding of where we are today, and a focused vision for the work ahead. We are excited for her future and the leadership she will provide to our students, faculty, staff and community.”

As part of the superintendent search, Glenbard District 87 conducted an online survey and a series of focus group meetings with faculty, staff, students and community members to provide input and feedback.

Santee has earned the following recognitions: • DuPage County, IL Principal of the Year: Illinois Principals Association; 2023-24 • Asked to co-author an article for National Association of Secondary School Principals (NASSP) Principal Leadership Journal based on NASSP National Conference presentation, 2024. Article: Rethinking the School Day Schedule – A new way to emphasize deep learning and student support • North Central College Leader of the Month: Educational Leadership; 2023 • Illinois Econ IL 3M Outstanding Economic Educator of the Year; 2016 • Japan Fulbright Memorial Scholar; 2007 • Korea Society Scholarship for Summer Institute: NYC; 2005 • Outstanding Graduate Student Award: University of Cincinnati School of Education; 2002 Larson will collaborate with Santee for a smooth transition leading up to her official start date on July 1, 2025.

Page 6A

Rock Valley Publishing

Thursday, Dec. 26, 2024

SUBMITTED PHOTO Rock Valley Publishing

Addison District 4 hosts annual Elves Festival

Addison District 4 recently hosted its third annual Elves Festival, inspired by Each tag detailed a specific wish, giving participants the opportunity to help fulfill the spirit of the Giving Tree. Before Thanksgiving break, participants could pick the dreams of District 4 students in need. Thanks to the generosity of the Addison up tags that represented individual District 4 students and their holiday wish lists. community, District 4 was able to give 1,100 gifts to its families.

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.

SUBMITTED PHOTO Rock Valley Publishing

Addison Trail students take field trip to Illinois Teamsters Joint Council No. 25 in Joliet

Earlier this month, 17 Addison Trail students went to the Illinois Teamsters Joint Council No. 25 and Employers Apprenticeship & Training Fund in Joliet. They met with instructor Dan Sims, who discussed what it takes to obtain a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) and the requirements of each type (Class A CDL, Class B CDL and Class C CDL). According to https://illinoisteamsterstraining.org, “Construction Teamsters work in the construction building industry. This includes asphalt, concrete and dirt work for new roads and rebuilding of existing roads. (The) mission at the Illinois Teamsters/Employers Apprenticeship and Training Fund is to provide job-skills training for Teamsters in the construction industry. Students learn to work in a safe and productive manner.

Upon completion of classes, graduates will enter the workforce fully prepared to accomplish the tasks for which they are hired.”

For more information, go to https://illinoisteamsterstraining.org.

District 88 is committed to providing multiple and flexible pathways for students to ensure they are college and career ready and continues to partner with colleges/universities and local businesses to expand these opportunities. See details at dupage88. net/Pathways. District 88 invites companies to collaborate with the district and support students. In January, Addison Trail will host field trips to Abt Electronics (www.abt.com) and Porter Pipe & Supply (www.porterpipe.com).

Addison Dec. 9 A 37-year-old Addison man was charged with two counts of domestic battery at a hospital at 1:54 p.m.

Dec. 8 Ludymar Ramos, 50, of Addison, was charged with DUI, reckless driving, leaving the scene of an accident and speeding 40-plus mph over the limit in the 1-100 block of E. North, Villa Park, at 12:19 a.m.

Dec. 7 A 53-year-old Addison man was charged with two counts of domestic battery in the 2100 block of Adobe at 3:19 p.m.

Dec. 6 Fernando R. Asig Cuc, 31, of Cicero, was charged with transportation of alcoholic liquor by a driver and two counts of DUI in the 700 block of E. Lake at 9:04 p.m.

Anthony L. Stewart, 35, of Chicago, was charged with resisting a police officer in the 1500 block of Fullerton at 4:16 p.m.

Sohn A. Green, 51, and Carl D. Keyes, 47, both of Chicago, were charged with theft in the 100 block of N. Lombard at 7:18 a.m.

Jose J. Ortiz Hernandez, 38, of Glendale Heights, was charged with speeding, making an improper turn at an intersection and two counts of Dui near Lake and Addison at 3:35 a.m.

Dec. 5 Police said Aaron Duran Jr., 29 (no residence given), was issued a warrant

for possession of cannabis in a vehicle at 9:29 p.m.

Ivet Nunez, 27, of Carpentersville, was charged with obstructing a police officer near I-390 at 10:03 p.m.

Nov. 29 A 24-year-old Addison man was charged with two counts of DUI and interference with the report of domestic violence in the 500 block of N. Valerie at 1:06 a.m.

Nov. 28 Luis E. Miranda Rodriguez, 46, of Addison, was charged with failure to yield to an emergency vehicle, improper lane usage and two counts of DUI in the 400 block of W. Stevens at 1:01 a.m.

Nov. 27 Police said Roberto Garcia, 36, of Addison, was issued a warrant for possession of a controlled substance in the 400 block of W. Lake at 5:20 p.m.

A 54-year-old Addison man was charged with two counts of domestic battery near Stonemill and 6th at 3:07 p.m.

Bensenville Dec. 18, 11:27 a.m. near Pamela Drive, a victim reported that she had been in contact with an individual claiming to be a rental agent for 47 Pamela Drive. The victim paid $150 to the individual, but later discovered it was fraudulent agent. The incident is under investigation. BEPC2401007 Dec. 17, 12:12 p.m. in the 200 block of James, Gonzalo Gonzales Lopez, 21, of Rolling Meadows, allegedly altered his paycheck defrauding his employer of $1,000. Gonzalo was arrested for forgery, issued complaints a court date and a pre-trial release.

BEPC2401004 Dec. 17, 12:40 p.m. in the 300 block of S. York, a complainant reported that someone punctured a car tire.

The incident is under investigation.

BEPC2401005 Dec. 15, 12:43 p.m. in the 100 block

of Grand Avenue, the chief trustee coordinator of a church stated a parishioner discovered the exterior glass window on the southeast entrance to be shattered. The incident is under investigation. BEPC2400997 Dec. 12, 10:25 p.m. in the 1100 block of York, a loss prevention officer reported that a suspect described as a white female came into a store and stole $506 worth of groceries on Dec. 10 at approximately 3 p.m.

The incident is under investigation.

BEPC2400996 Dec. 13, 11:39 a.m. in the 600 block of Redmond, a victim stated an unknown suspect(s) made entry into her unlocked car and took her credit cards.

The incident is under investigation.

BEPC2400992

DuPage County Sheriff’s Office warns of brushing scam

The DuPage County Sheriff’s Office warns the community about a dangerous new scam that’s taking place across the country that could leave your personal information exposed.

In a brushing scam, you may receive an unsolicited gift or package at your home—something you didn’t order.

Don’t scan the code! By scanning this code, you could unknowingly provide scammers with access to your personal information, such as banking, putting you at risk for identity theft or other malicious activities.

Here’s what to do if you receive an unexpected package: 1. Do not scan any QR codes or open any suspicious links.

2. Contact the sender if they appear to be a legitimate company.

3. Report it to your local Police Department. If you’re in unincorporated DuPage County, call the DuPage County Sheriff’s Office (630)-4072400.

Thursday, Dec. 26, 2024

Rock Valley Publishing

Page 7

LEGAL NOTICES

Village of Bensenville Office of the Village Clerk 12 South Center Street Bensenville, IL 60106 The Village of Bensenville will accept Sealed Bids until January 14, 2025 at 11:00 AM. The Bid must be in a sealed opaque envelope plainly marked 2025 Addison Creek Tree and Vegetation Clearing Bid. The forms can be found at www.bensenville.il.us under “Business.” The packet can also be picked up at the Public Works Department, 717 E Jefferson Street, Bensenville, IL 60106. Detailed information may be obtained by contacting Brad Hargett at 630-350-3411 or via email at bhargett@ bensenville.il.us.

All bids require a Bid Bond, or Certified or Cashier’s Check made payable to the Village of Bensenville for not less than five percent (5%) of the base bid amount.

The Village Board reserves the right to reject any and all bids or portions thereof.

(Published in the Addison Independent, Bensenville Independent & Villa Park Review Dec. 26, 2024) 466157 Village of Bensenville Board of Trustees Meeting Schedule Calendar Year 2025 The Board meeting schedule for Calendar Year 2025 is hereby established to provide for regular Board of Trustee meetings on the dates listed below. Unless indicated otherwise, all regular Board of Trustee meetings shall be held in the Board Room at 12 South Center Street, Bensenville, IL and shall commence at 6:30 p.m. on a specific Tuesday of each month.

January 28, 2025 February 25, 2025 March 25, 2025 April 29, 2025 May 20, 2025 June 10, 2025 June 24, 2025 July 29, 2025 August 26, 2025 September 30, 2025 October 28, 2025 November 18, 2025 December 16, 2025 (Published in the Addison Independent, Bensenville Independent & Villa Park Review Dec. 26.2024) 465998 Village of Bensenville CDC Meeting Schedule Calendar Year 2025 The Community Development Commission meeting schedule for Calendar Year 2025 is hereby established to provide for regular CDC Meetings on the dates listed below. Unless indicated otherwise, all regular meetings shall be held in the Board Room at 12 South Center Street, Bensenville, IL and shall commence at 6:30 p.m. on the first Tuesday of each month.

01.07.25 02.04.25

Village of Bensenville Village Board Schedule for the Committee of the Whole Calendar Year 2025

Worship Services Directory

The following is the 2025 Committee of the Whole schedule. This schedule is hereby established to provide for the regular Committee of the Whole meetings on the dates listed below. Unless otherwise indicated, all regular meetings begin at 6:30 p.m. on specific Tuesdays of the month. All committee meetings will be held at 6:30p.m. unless indicated otherwise. All regular and special Committee of the Whole meetings shall be held in the upstairs Board Room at 12 South Center Street, Bensenville, IL. March 18, 2025 May 13, 2025 September 23, 2025 October 21, 2025 (Published in the Addison Independent, Bensenville Independent & Villa Park Review Dec. 26, 2024) 465999 NOTICE CERTIFICATE NO. 79575 was filed in the office of the County Clerk of DuPage County on DECEMBER 2, 2024 wherein the business firm of RIGHT IT SYSTEMS LIMITED, 1956 COBBLEBROOK LANE, NAPERVILLE, IL 60565 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: Lalitha Nadella, 1956 Cobblebrook Lane, Naperville, IL 60565.

Ramachandran Nadella, 1956 Cobblebrook Lane, Naperville, IL 60565.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand and Official Seal at my office in Wheaton, Illinois, this 2ND day of DECEMBER, A.D. 2024.

Jean Kaczmarek DuPage County Clerk (Published in The Lombardian Dec. 12, 19 & 26, 2024) 465408 NOTICE CERTIFICATE NO. 79584 was filed in the office of the County Clerk of DuPage County on DECEMBER 13, 2024 wherein the business firm of LUXE LOFT, 44 W. OGDEN AVENUE, DOWNERS GROVE, IL 60515 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: Lakeshia Jones, 717 S. Clark Unit 805, Chicago, IL 60605.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand and Official Seal at my office in Wheaton, Illinois, this 13TH day of DECEMBER, A.D. 2024.

Jean Kaczmarek DuPage County Clerk (Published in The Lombardian Dec. 26, 2024, Jan. 2 & 9 2025) 466031

St. Timothy Evangelical Lutheran Church 547 N. Main St., Lombard, IL 60148

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LentSunday andWorship Easter Services at 10:15 am

at 7&p.m.

Sunday School Bible Study 9 am “The CrucialMondays Hours”at 6:30 pm Ladies Bible Fellowship Second Lenten Service Service at 7pm March 9, 2022 Wednesday Rev. DavidBible Ernest Study Wednesdays “Satan Has Asked toafter Sift AllService of You” Adult Jerusalem Lutheran, Morton 25, GroveGame Night Matthewat27:15-26 Saturday, January 4 pm

is Welcome!

Third LentenEveryone Service March 16, 2022 Rev. Paul Spaude “What to Remember When Your are All services are live streamed.

St. Matthews, Niles Seized with Remorse” Watch on our website or on Facebook.

Matthew 27:3-4 sainttimothy.org Fourth Lenten Service Rev. Jonathan Bergemann Good Shepherd, Downers Grove

BeMarch a part 30, 2022 “They Bound Him” of the John 18:12 Sixth Lenten Service April 6, 2022 Worship Rev. Phil Schupmann “The Semblance of Legality” Resurrection, Aurora Luke 22:66 Services Maundy Thursday Communion Directory 7 p.m., April 14 Fifth Lenten Service Rev. Tom Nicholson Resurrection, Aurora

Good Friday Tenebrae

7 p.m., April 15

a.m., April 17 for as low as $206:30 per week 8 a.m., April 17

Easter Sunrise

Easter Breakfast

Call Brenda at 630-834-4450 10:15 a.m., April 17 or Betty at 630-627-7010

Easter Festival

My current name is: Geoff Edward Strauss.

I wish my name to be changed to: Jess Elwood Strauss.

Immaculate Conception Church 134 Arthur St., Elmhurst, IL 630 530-8515 www.icelmhurst.org

Feast of the Holy Family

March 23, 2022 “I Will Keep the Passover” Matthew 26:18

Saturday, December 28 8:00am Church 4:30pm Sacred Heart Chapel Sunday, December 29 7:30am & 7:00pm Church 9:00am & 11:30am Sacred Heart Chapel

Solemnity of Mary, Mother of God Tuesday, December 31 4:30pm Church Wednesday, January 1 7:30am & 11:30am Church (No 9:00am or 7:00pm Masses)

The Epiphany of the Lord

Saturday, January 4 4:30pm Sacred Heart Chapel Sunday, January 5 7:30am & 7:00pm Church 9:00am & 11:30am Sacred Heart Chapel

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

PUBLICATION NOTICE OF COURT DATE FOR REQUEST FOR NAME CHANGE iN THE STATE OF ILLINOIS CIRCUIT COURT COUNTY OF DU PAGE 2024MR000768 CASE NUMBER

466082

Notice is hereby given that the Village of Bensenville is seeking bids from qualified, licensed contractors for establishing a contractual agreement for the 2025 Addison Creek Tree and Vegetation Clearing. The bids shall be sent to:

(Published in the Addison Independent, Bensenville Independent & Villa Park Review Dec. 26, 2024) 466000

(Published in The Lombardian Dec. 26, 2024, Jan. 2 & 9, 2025) 465976

be held: February, 13, 2025 at 9:00 at 505 N. County Farm Road, Wheaton, IL in Courtroom 2007.

Dated 12/17/2024 Candice Adams Clerk of the Circuit Court 8085-949009 (Published in The Lombardian Dec. 26, 2024, Jan. 2 & 9, 2025) 466171

465781

December 26, 2024

/s/ Geoff Edward Strauss Geoff Edward Strauss

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE EIGHTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT DU PAGE COUNTY, ILLINOIS PUBLICATION NOTICE OF COURT DATE FOR REQUEST FOR NAME CHANGE Request of: Karl Alexander Hildner Case Number 2024MR000710 There will be a court date on my Request to change my name from Karl Alexander Hildner to the new name of Lyra Fyxe Fanchon. The court date will

Confessions: Saturday: 3-3:45PM 779 S. York Street Elmhurst, IL 630-834-6700 www.visitationparish.org

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

457554

BID DUE: By January 14, 2025 at 11:00 A.M. PROJECT NAME: 2025 Addison Creek Tree and Vegetation Clearing PROJECT LOCATION: Village of Bensenville, Illinois

The court date for the Request is scheduled on: March 3, 2025 at 9:00 a.m. in Courtroom 2007, 505 N. County Farm Rd., Wheaton, IL 60187..

465695

2025 ADDISON CREEK TREE AND VEGETATION CLEARING

03.04.25 04.01.25 05.06.25 06.03.25 07.01.25 08.05.25 09.02.25 10.07.25 11.04.25 12.02.25

440960

NOTICE TO BIDDERS:

Page 8

Rock Valley Publishing

Thursday, Dec. 26, 2024

Appellate court affirms subject’s conviction of sexual assault and 88-year sentence Man convicted of assaulting female employee of an Oak Brook hotel in 2019

DuPage County State’s Attorney Robert Berlin recently announced that the Third District Appellate Court of Illinois affirmed the conviction and 88-year sentence of Julius Ramsey for sexually assaulting, at gunpoint, a female employee of an Oak Brook hotel in 2019.

In his appeal of his conviction, Ramsey claimed that his attorney was ineffective for failing to explain to the jury why the defendant did not testify at trial after they had been told

that he would.

On Sept. 9, 2019, at approximately 11:48 a.m., Oak Brook police were called to the Hyatt House for a sexual assault that had occurred in a vacant room. Through the course of their investigation, officers learned that at approximately 11:20 a.m., Ramsey forced the woman at gunpoint into a vacant room at the hotel, where he sexually assaulted her on several occasions, put a gun to her head and threatened to kill her. The victim was

able to escape the room and report the assault.

On May 20, 2021, following a three-day-long trial presided over by Judge Jeffrey MacKay, a jury found Ramsey guilty of three counts of aggravated criminal sexual assault with a firearm (a Class X felony), one count of aggravated kidnapping with a firearm (a Class X felony) and one count of aggravated criminal sexual abuse (a Class 2 felony).

In its decision, the Appellate

I LOVE Taking You to Your Next Home

By Peter Hancock CAPITOL NEWS ILLINOIS

FO R

SA L

E

Public schools in Illinois have enjoyed several consecutive years of substantial increases in state funding, thanks largely to steady growth in state revenues and a new funding formula that lawmakers approved in 2018.

But whether that can continue into the upcoming fiscal year is an open question that state lawmakers will have to face when they return to the Statehouse in January.

With budget forecasters predicting flat revenue growth over the next year and continued demands for increased spending in other areas of the budget such as pension costs and health care, members of the Illinois State Board of Education were told recently that they are now in a different fiscal environment.

“I do not envy anybody involved in that process because it won’t be a fun time,” Eric Noggle, revenue manager of the legislature’s Commission on Government Forecasting and Accountability, or COGFA, told the board.

COGFA is a nonpartisan agency that provides economic and budgetary analysis to the General Assembly.

It operates independently of the Governor’s Office of Management and Budget, or GOMB, although the two agencies are often in agreement in their general findings and analysis.

In November, GOMB issued a report projecting a $3.2 billion deficit in the fiscal year that begins July 1, 2025.

That was based on projections of essentially flat revenue growth of about $53.4 billion, and a 6 percent increase in spending due to statutorily required increases in things like pension contri-

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their thorough analysis of this case and their finding that Mr. Ramsey received a fair trial,” Berlin said. “The Appellate Court’s decision ensures that Mr. Ramsey will not receive a new trial and his conviction and 88year sentence will stand.”

Justice Lance Peterson delivered the judgment of the court, with Justice William Holdridge and Justice Linda Davenport concurring.

Ramsey’s appeal was defended by Steven Biagi of the DuPage County State’s Attorney’s Criminal Appeals Division.

Budget pressures could impact K-12 funding

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Court rejected Ramsey’s claims and found that at trial, “counsel put forth a rigorous defense and appropriately addressed the absence of defendant’s testimony during his closing argument.” The Appellate Court further stated that “Counsel highlighted defendant’s constitutional right not to testify and emphasized the burden was on the State to prove the charged offenses” and noted “We fail to identify what more counsel could have said to remedy defendant’s own last-minute decision not to testify.”

“I thank the Appellate Court for

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butions, Medicaid and state employee health care costs, and PreK-12 education.

In the current fiscal year, state spending on public schools totals just under $11 billion, or about 20 percent of the state’s $53 billion General Revenue Fund Budget.

Two factors are primarily responsible for the demand for increased state spending on schools. One is the 2018 funding formula, known as the Evidence-Based Funding model, that calls for annual increases of at least $350 million.

That law sets out a formula for determining what would be an “adequate” level of funding for each district based on factors such as total student enrollment, poverty rates, and the number of English language learners in the district. The adequacy target includes both state aid and money the district is able to raise on its own through local property taxes.

The law then directs that the new money each year be sent to districts that are furthest away from their adequacy target. The annual funding increases are supposed to continue until all districts reach at least 90 percent of their adequacy target.

But some advocates argue the state needs to increase its evidence-based funding by more than the minimum $350 million each year.

State Superintendent of Education Tony Sanders is scheduled to submit his final budget proposal to the board for approval at the board’s Jan. 15 meeting.

Pritzker is scheduled to deliver his budget address to the General Assembly Feb. 19.

LEGAL NOTICE VILLAGE OF LOMBARD NOTICE TO BIDDERS FOR FY2025 Water/Sewer System Supplies The Village of Lombard is now accepting sealed bid proposals for FY2025 Water/Sewer System Supplies.

To buy or sell a house call Eva today Eva Sanchez, REALTOR® call or text: (630) 561-8742 email: SeeYourHouse@outlook.com

Bid proposals must be received prior to 11:00 a.m. on Friday, January 10, 2025 at the Department of Public Works, 1051 S. Hammerschmidt Ave., Lombard, Illinois, 60148, marked “Attention: Carl S. Goldsmith” and at that time publicly opened and read aloud. Each proposal should be placed in a sealed envelope and the envelope labeled with the bidder’s name, address, bid item name and bid opening location, room number, time, and date. Only sealed bids will be accepted.

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Bid specifications and specific instructions to bidders may be obtained from

the Director of Public Works at the Department of Public Works. All questions concerning the bid document or specifications must be submitted in writing to the Director of Public Works. A written response will then be provided to all known bidders and made available to the public. No interpretations, clarifications or addenda will be issued after three (3) working days prior to the scheduled bid opening.

The Village of Lombard reserves the right to reject any or all bids and to waive all technicalities or to accept the proposal deemed most advantageous to the Village.

Elizabeth Brezinski Village Clerk (Published in The Lombardian Dec. 26, 2024) 466032

Thursday, Dec. 26, 2024

Lezza Bakery & Gelateria!

It was a pleasure serving you in 2024 and we’re really excited for 2025!

The weather outside may be frightful but it’s sure delightful at Lezza’s! And if you have no place to go... stop in and we’ll warm you with our fresh baked treats and hot coffee and cocoa.

Where friendly faces and exceptional care create radiant smiles that light up every room!

We have a whole calendar planned for the New Year, so be sure to stop by often.

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EXCITING NEWS! WE NOW HAVE AN ONLINE STORE! Just shop and ship when you can’t stop by to see us.

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Page 9

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Rock Valley Publishing

Page 10

Rock Valley Publishing

Thursday, Dec. 26, 2024

Illinois’ presidential electors meet to cast votes for Harris Electoral College votes take place in state capitols around the country

CAPITOL NEWS ILLINOIS

Illinois’ presidential electors met at the Statehouse Dec. 17 to cast their votes for president and vice president of the United States.

The ceremony, which is held on the same day in all 50 states and Washington, D.C., is one of the final steps in certifying the winner of the presidential election. The process is spelled out in federal law and the U.S. Constitution.

“A successful election is defined by more than just what happens on Election Day,” Secretary

of State Alexi Giannoulias said during a Dec. 16 news conference in Chicago. “It depends on various voter registration efforts throughout the state, including at our DMVs, and collaboration with county clerks across Illinois to register voters and ensure clean voting rolls. Volunteers and other public servants work long, stressful days to make sure that the tenets of democracy are upheld at our polling places and that the votes are counted accurately.”

Article 2 of the Constitution provides that the number of electoral votes in each state is equal to

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this historical ballot for a person who has broken barriers for women, and particularly women of color,” said Elector Vera Davis, wife of U.S. Rep. Danny Davis. “And also, my sister in the sorority, Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Inc., I cast this vote for Kamala Harris.”

After the ballots were cast, Giannoulias, accompanied by electors Loretta Durbin and Bobby Rush, opened the ballot box, counted the ballots and announced the results.

“It is my pleasure to announce that Kamala D. Harris has received 19 electoral votes for president of the United States from the great state of Illinois, and Tim Walz has also received 19 votes for vice president of the United States,” Giannoulias said. “I did that on purpose. I’m proud to see the electors are paying attention.”

For Illinois, it was the 52nd meeting of the state’s presidential electors.

After the Dec. 17 ceremony at the Statehouse concluded, the electors’ ballots will be sent to the president of the U.S. Senate, where they will be opened and counted during a joint session of Congress on Jan. 6.

Since the vice president serves as president of the Senate, that means Harris will have the responsibility to open the ballots and declare her opponent, Trump, the winner.

A similar result occurred in 2021 when thenVice President Mike Pence was required to declare Democrat Joe Biden the winner over then-President Trump. That ceremony was interrupted when Trump supporters stormed the U.S. Capitol in a failed attempt to prevent the electoral votes from being certified.

In 2001, Democratic Vice President Al Gore was required to certify results in favor of his opponent, Republican George W. Bush. And in 1961, Republican Vice President Richard Nixon was required to certify results in favor of his opponent, Democrat John F. Kennedy.

Additional copies of the ballots are sent to the National Archives, the Illinois State Board of Elections, and the U.S. District Court for the Central District of Illinois.

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the number of senators and representatives that state has in Congress. And the 23rd amendment provides that Washington, D.C., receive the same number of electoral votes it would have if it were a state, which is three.

That brings the total number of electoral votes in the United States to 538, including 19 from Illinois.

In Illinois, electors are chosen by the political party whose presidential candidate wins the popular vote. Vice President Kamala Harris, the Democratic nominee, won Illinois’ popular vote 54 percent to 43 percent and thus will receive the state’s 19 electoral votes. But former President Donald Trump, the Republican nominee, won the popular vote in enough other states to win the majority of electoral votes nationally.

According to the Democratic Party of Illinois, the 19 electors will be former U.S. Rep. Bobby Rush; state Sens. Cristina Castro, Bill Cunningham and Omar Aquino; state Reps. Will Davis, Angelica Guerrero-Cuellar, Hoan Huynh and Maurice West; Illinois Board of Education member Christine Benson; Illinois Civil Service Commission member Vivian Robinson; Democratic State Central Committee members Kristina Zahorik, Melinda Bush, Kate Daniels and Elizabeth Lindquist; state employee Mariah McGuire; businesswoman and former national Democratic Party leader Smita Shah; lobbyist Loretta Durbin, wife of Sen. Dick Durbin; Vera Davis, wife of Congressman Danny Davis; and Paul Kendrick, executive director of the Democratic campaign group Rust Belt Rising.

During the ceremony at the Statehouse that lasted only about half an hour, the aforementioned electors chosen by the Democratic Party of Illinois stepped up, one-by-one, and dropped their paper ballots into a specially-made wooden box—one ballot for president, and a separate ballot for vice president.

For some, it was a chance to make a final statement about the 2024 election.

“It is my honor and my privilege to represent the people of the 7th Congressional District to cast

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holiday lights, extension cords and scrap wiring this holiday season. The Village of Lombard has partnered with Elgin Recycling to offer residents holiday light through Jan. 15, 2025. A collection bin will be located in front of the Public Works building and will be accessible at any time. Please remove any plastic ornamentals and bags from the lights and chords to prevent entangling in the processing machinery—similar to curbside recycling.

Free holiday tree pickup: Residents may place holiday trees, free of tinsel and decorations, at their curbsides, Jan. 6-17, for free disposal.

Thursday, Dec. 26, 2024

Sports

Rock Valley Publishing

Page 11

The Rams’ winning streak reaches five games Wins over Ridgewood and Glenbard South lift Glenbard East’s division record to 5-0

The Glenbard East boys basketball team recorded two Upstate Eight Conference East Division victories last week to improve to 6-3 overall and 5-0 in the division.

The Rams posted a 71-58 division win at Ridgewood on Dec. 17. Three days later, Glenbard East beat Glenbard South 56-41 in a division battle in Lombard.

The Rams kicked off their 202425 season by going 1-3 in four non-division contests. Glenbard East has since won five straight division games.

The Rams led Glenbard South 17-9 after one quarter of Friday’s matchup between area rivals. Glenbard East led the Raiders 34-28 at halftime of the contest, which featured a large and vocal crowd in the Rams’ student section.

Junior Michael Nee sank a 3-point shot in the opening seconds of the third quarter to raise the Rams’ advantage to 37-28. Baskets by junior Sam Walton and junior Jacob Marynowski hiked Glenbard East’s lead to 41-28. The Rams held a 4635 lead over Glenbard South at the end of the third quarter.

“The first half was back and forth,” said Glenbard East coach Eric Kelly after Friday’s win over the Raiders.

“We went on a little bit of a run to go up double digits in the second half.

We came out strong to start the third quarter, and I think our defense really played well.”

Nee made three shots from 3-point

range and scored a team-leading 13 points for the Rams in Friday’s victory. Junior Muhammad Musleh, who drained a pair of 3-point attempts, provided 10 points for Glenbard East. Senior Devin Kraft contributed nine points. Marynowski and junior Danny Snyder added six points each.

Walton and junior Norman Loechel supplied five points each. Senior Emmitt Perryman sank two free throws in the fourth quarter to score two points.

The Rams have now beaten Glenbard South twice this season. Glenbard East earned its first win of its 2024-25 campaign when it beat the Raiders 54-32 at the District 87 Tournament on Nov. 27. The Rams opened that four-team, round-robin event with losses to Glenbard North and Glenbard West.

Kraft provided 21 points, five rebounds and five assists in the Rams’ Dec. 17 victory at Ridgewood. Nee supplied 17 points and four assists.

Snyder contributed 12 points and seven rebounds.

Glenbard East is playing in the 50th annual Jack Tosh Holiday Classic at York High School in Elmhurst.

The Rams are opening play in the 32-team tournament with a Dec. 26 game against St. Patrick. Glenbard East will play at least four games in the event, which concludes on Tuesday, Dec. 31.

The Rams will resume their division season with a Jan. 7 home game against Elmwood Park.

CHRIS FOX PHOTOS Rock Valley Publishing

Glenbard East’s boys basketball team raised its Upstate Eight Conference East Division record to 5-0 with last week’s division wins over Ridgewood and Glenbard South. After earning a 71-58 victory at Ridgewood on Dec. 17, the Rams defeated Glenbard South 56-41 in Lombard on Friday night. Junior Michael Nee scored a team-high 13 points for the Rams in Friday’s win over the Raiders. Nee (No. 4 - top left) is pictured while launching and making a 3-point shot early in the third quarter. Junior Muhammad Musleh (No. 0 - above) made two 3-point baskets and scored 10 points for Glenbard East in Friday’s victory. Senior Devin Kraft (No. 10 - left) added nine points.

Kraft scored 21 points for the Rams in last week’s win at Ridgewood.

Glenbard East moved its overall season record to 6-3 with Friday’s triumph over Glenbard South. The Rams will play at least four games in the 32-team Jack Tosh Holiday Classic at York High School. That tournament begins this week and continues through Dec. 31.

Rams win two of three home games to raise their overall season record to 8-5 Glenbard East drops to 4-1 in division play after its loss to Glenbard South

CHRIS FOX PHOTOS Rock Valley Publishing

Glenbard East’s girls basketball team won two of three home games last week to improve its overall season record to 8-5. The Rams posted a 56-23 win over Ridgewood in an Upstate Eight Conference East Division contest on Dec. 17. Glenbard East suffered a 47-28 division loss to Glenbard South on Friday. One day later, the Rams beat Addison Trail 42-27 in a non-division game. One photo from Saturday’s game against Addison Trail shows Glenbard East senior Veronica Witt (No. 15 - above left), who scored six points in her team’s win over the Blazers. Sophomore Lilly Carver (No. 22 - above middle) scored four points for the Rams in Saturday’s victory. Junior Nora Opila (No. 5 - above right) added three points for Glenbard East.

The Glenbard East girls basketball team played three home games in a five-day span last week. The Rams won two of those three games and ended the week with an overall season record of 8-5 and an Upstate Eight Conference East Division mark of 4-1.

Glenbard East began the week with a dominant 56-23 division win over Ridgewood on Dec. 17. The Rams suffered their first division loss of the season on Friday, when they lost 47-28 to Glenbard South. Glenbard East completed its week with Saturday afternoon’s 42-27 victory over Addison Trail in a non-division contest.

The Rams led Ridgewood 17-11 after one quarter of last week’s division game in Lombard. Glenbard East made four 3-point shots in the second quarter, when it outscored the Rebels 20-5 to build a 37-16 lead by halftime. The lead grew to 48-22 by

the end of the third quarter.

Junior Haley Greenfield scored a team-leading 11 points for the Rams in last week’s win over Ridgewood.

Senior Erin Brown and freshman Olivia Nee added 10 points each.

Sophomore Teagan Murphy provided eight points, while senior Veronica Witt scored seven points. Sophomores Lilly Carver and Bridget Crocker supplied four points each.

Senior Taylour Hodges added two points.

Nee drained two 3-point shots during the second quarter of Glenbard East’s Dec. 17 win over the Rebels. Greenfield and Murphy made one 3-point field goal each during the second quarter. Murphy also sank a 3-point shot during the first quarter.

Glenbard South led Glenbard East 10-8 after one quarter of Friday’s contest, which was the opening

See RAMS, Page 12

Page 12

Rock Valley Publishing

Thursday, Dec. 26, 2024

Warriors win the team title at Addison Trail’s invite Capulong takes first in the all-around standings

CHRIS FOX FILE PHOTO Rock Valley Publishing

The Broncos defeat Mother McAuley

Montini Catholic’s girls basketball team beat Mother McAuley 59-42 in last week’s Girls Catholic Athletic Conference (GCAC) Red Division contest in Lombard. The Broncos moved to 8-3 overall and 3-0 in division play with their Dec. 17 victory over the Mighty Macs. Montini led Mother McAuley 15-5 after one quarter and 30-11 at halftime.

The Broncos owned a 46-25 lead at the end of the third quarter.

Seniors Peyton Farrell and Nikki Kerstein scored 22 points each for Montini in the game. Kerstein made four shots from 3-point territory during the contest. She also sank four free throws. Farrell (No. 24) supplied 10 field goals and made two free throws in the Broncos’ victory over Mother McAuley. Farrell scored five of her 10 baskets during the third quarter. Senior Audrey Kinney made one 3-point shot and contributed nine points for Montini. Seniors Natalie Gartlan, Lauren Mellish and Lily Spanos provided two points each. The Broncos are playing in their own 16-team tournament this week.

Montini opened its event with a game against Neuqua Valley on Monday, Dec. 23. The tournament ends this Saturday, Dec. 28.

• Rams

The Willowbrook girls gymnastics team won the title at Saturday’s Addison Trail Winter Tumbleland Invite. The Warriors posted a firstplace team score of 130.15 in the five-team event. Leyden (128.1) finished second, while Addison Trail (127.8) placed third. York (119.5) and Morton (113.7) finished fourth and fifth, respectively.

Willowbrook sophomore Lilli Macias won the invite’s title in the vault event with her score of 9.25. Addison Trail senior Olivia DeBeau claimed the championship on the uneven bars with her firstplace score of 8.2. Junior Mia Trombatore of Addison Trail won the first-place medal on the balance beam with her score of 8.4.

Willowbrook junior Kaia Capulong won the invite’s all-around title with her total score of 33.55. Capulong achieved her all-around score after placing second on the balance beam (8.3), third in floor exercises (8.7), tying for fourth on the vault (8.75) and finishing sixth on the uneven bars (7.8).

Trombatore (33.3) placed second in the all-around standings, while DeBeau (32.55) and Macias (32.25) landed in third and fourth, respectively.

Willowbrook freshman Ella Paulsen secured a second-place finish on the vault (8.95). Sophomore Mallory Yeazel of the Warriors finished third on the uneven bars (8.0). Senior Naomi Campbell of Willowbrook earned fourth-place finishes on the balance beam (8.15) and in floor exercises (8.5).

The Warriors competed in a dual meet at Leyden on Dec. 19.

Leyden earned a narrow 129.85-128.3 victory in the meet’s team standings. Capulong finished first on the balance beam (8.85) in that competition. Campbell delivered a first-place effort in floor exercises.

Her routine earned a score of 8.65.

The Warriors’ 2024-25 season continues with a home meet against Addison Trail on Jan. 8.

Broncos drop to 5-5 after losing to Brother Rice Warriors lose to the Sansone connects on four 3-point shots and scores 16 points for Montini Mustangs

CHRIS FOX PHOTO Rock Valley Publishing

The Montini Catholic boys basketball team’s overall season record fell to 5-5 following Friday’s 64-51 loss to Brother Rice in Lombard.

The visiting Crusaders jumped out to an 11-0 lead during the opening minutes of the game. Brother Rice led the Broncos 22-4 at the end of the first quarter. The Crusaders held a 37-19 lead at halftime. Their lead swelled to 58-33 by the end of the third quarter.

Brother Rice led Montini 64-44 with a little more than two minutes to play. The Broncos delivered a 7-0 run to end the game.

Junior Robert Sansone made four 3-point shots and scored a team-leading 16 points for the Broncos during Friday’s loss. Senior Dillon Bagley

supplied 11 points for Montini, while senior Jack Barrett made two 3-point shots and scored 10 points. Senior Jake Maquet and junior Colt Ashton contributed four points each for the Broncos.

Senior Drew Church, junior Kenny Hines and junior Charlie Morton added two points each.

The Broncos are playing in the 12team ICCP/Westmont 2024 Christmas Classic, which began earlier this week. Montini opened the event with a game against Taft High School on Dec. 23 in Westmont. The Broncos finished pool play in the tournament with a Dec. 26 game against Unity Christian in Westmont. The tournament continues through Monday, Dec. 30.

(Continued from page 11)

game of a doubleheader; the second game featured a battle between the two schools’ varsity boys teams.

The Raiders expanded their lead to 25-13 by halftime. Glenbard South led the Rams 35-21 at the end of the third quarter.

The Raiders improved their division record to 5-0 with Friday’s win over Glenbard East.

Nee connected on three shots from 3-point territory and scored a team-high 11 points in Friday’s loss to the Raiders. Murphy provided six points, while Carver contribut-

CHRIS FOX PHOTO Rock Valley Publishing

ed four points. Brown scored three points, while Witt and Greenfield tallied two points each.

The Rams had a slow start in Saturday afternoon’s game against Addison Trail. The visiting Blazers led Glenbard East 5-2 at the end of the first quarter. The Rams rallied to take a 16-9 lead by halftime. Glenbard East’s lead grew to 29-18 by the end of the third quarter.

Nee made two 3-point shots and scored 10 points in the Rams’ win over Addison Trail. Murphy supplied nine points with three 3-point

baskets. Witt and Hodges added six and five points, respectively. Carver scored four points, while junior Nora Opila contributed three points.

Bridget Crocker provided three points with a 3-point basket in the fourth quarter. Greenfield added two points.

The Rams will play four games in this week’s Sandburg Holiday Classic at Carl Sandburg High School in Orland Park. Glenbard East opened play in the 16-team event with a Dec. 26 matchup against Nazareth Academy.

Willowbrook’s girls basketball team lost 61-25 to Downers Grove South in last week’s West Suburban Gold Conference game in Villa Park. The visiting Mustangs led the Warriors 28-11 after one quarter and 36-18 at halftime. Downers Grove South held a 53-23 lead at the end of the third quarter. That lead of 30 points triggered a running clock for the entire fourth quarter of the Dec. 17 game. Sophomore Jada Langston scored a team-leading 10 points for the Warriors in the contest. Langston (No. 0) is pictured while launching and making a 3-point shot in the third quarter. Senior Ayaani Gusman and junior Joely Maciejewski added five and four points, respectively. The Warriors lost their next game, falling 51-44 at Leyden in Friday’s conference battle.

That loss dropped Willowbrook to 2-10 overall and 1-4 in conference action. Gusman scored a team-high 15 points in Friday’s loss to the Eagles. Langston and senior Loralai McIntyre provided eight points each. The Warriors are playing in this week’s 16team Bill Neibch Holiday Classic at Wheaton North High School.

Willowbrook began the event with a Dec. 23 game against West Aurora. The tournament ends this Saturday, Dec. 28.

Warriors fight back to win their conference opener

Willowbrook’s boys basketball team opened its West Suburban Gold Conference season with Friday’s 41-38 victory over Leyden in Villa Park. The Warriors, who improved their overall record to 3-4 with the win, trailed the visiting Eagles 11-9 after one quarter. The two teams were tied at 22-22 at halftime. Willowbrook struggled in the third quarter and trailed Leyden 36-27 with eight minutes to play. The Warriors outscored the Eagles 14-2 in the fourth quarter to earn a hard-fought victory. Junior Otis Powell (No. 2) scored a teamhigh 12 points for Willowbrook in the contest. Junior Jaylen Griffin provided nine points, while seniors Filip Palutkiewicz and Jaden Royal supplied eight points each. Powell sank a 3-point shot with about one minute left in the game. A layup from Royal and two late free throws

by Palutkiewicz helped the Warriors complete their comeback victory. The Eagles tried and missed a 3-point attempt at the buzzer. There was a scuffle near the end of the game, just before Palutkiewicz made his two freethrow attempts. Leyden finished the game with only three players on the court. The Warriors are playing in this week’s 2024 ICCP/ Westmont Christmas Classic.

Willowbrook opened the 12-team event with a game against Providence St. Mel on Dec. 23. The tournament continues through Dec. 30.

Thursday, Dec. 26, 2024

Rock Valley Publishing

Page 13

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Thursday, Dec. 26, 2024

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Call 630.834.8244 to Advertise In Print and Online

For details on placing your Help Wanted ad in our Classified Section call

Reaching Elmhurst •Addison •Bensenville Lombard • Villa Park and Beyond

(Lombard) 630-627-7010

453636

(Elmhurst) 630-834-8244

379666

Business & Service DIRECTORY Siding/Gutters

Tree Services

Wanted

JK MAINTENANCE GUTTERS CLEANED • FAST • CLEAN • INSURED Call 630-673-2182

T & M TREE SERVICE

I BUY OLD TOYS

tandmtreeserve@att.net

American Flyer, Lionel trains, Barbie and other dolls; G.I. Joe, Tonka, Matchbox, Hot Wheels cars, slot cars, Model Kits & more! Plus any other antiques and collectibles.

Call: 630-248-3222

464343

630-303-4641

459284

453474

• Tree Removal • Tree Trimming • Bush Removal • Stump Grinding • Free wood chips • Free Estimates • Insured Call Todd

Rock Valley Publishing

Thursday, Dec. 26, 2024

Pedersen Ryberg Funeral Home Since 1958

Well over sixty years, Pedersen Ryberg has provided meaningful and proven options with total respect in keeping with traditional values - whether a traditional funeral, traditional cremation, flameless cremation, or memorial service. We strive to maintain family wishes with uncompromised quality and value, and guide families in creating a way to remember loved ones.

Pre-Planning

We’re here for you

Peace of Mind Option to Pre-Pay Relieves Burden on Family to make Decisions

Respect Compassion Comfortability Affordable for any budget

435 North York Street • Elmhurst, Illinois 60126

(630) 834-1133

www.PedersenRyberg.com

•

info@PedersenRyberg.com

430165

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