BI022924

also serving Wood dale

Golf nights now named for Geils

The family of Jim Geils, former Bensenville Park District Commission before his death in 2023, gathered at Bensenville Village Hall for a proclamation (held by youngster in front), that now and into the future, White Pines golf events will be known as Jim Geils Family Golf Nights. The family-friendly evenings will beginning at 5 p.m. the third Sunday each month from May through September. Full story on page 3.

Man charged with leading police on 120 mph high-speed chase

Starting in Bensenville, suspect allegedly continued to speed through downtown Elmhurst

DuPage County State’s Attorney Robert Berlin and Bensenville Chief of Police Dan Schulze announced that Judge Joshua Dieden granted the state’s motion to detain pre-trial an Oak Park man accused of leading police on a

chase.

Rashaad Simpson, 21, appeared at First Appearance Court and was

charged with two counts of Aggravated fleeing and eluding a police officer (Class 4 felony) and multiple misdemeanor and petty traffic offenses.

On Feb. 21 at approximately 10:53 p.m., a Bensenville police officer on Rte. 83 allegedly observed a vehicle, later determined to be driven by

Simpson, passing him at a high rate of speed. The officer began following the vehicle, a Honda Civic, on northbound Rte. 83 when the Honda allegedly disobeyed a red light at Rte. 83 and Foster Ave., made a U-turn and sped away from the officer on southbound Rte. 83. The officer activated his emergency lights and sirens and pursued the Honda southbound, allegedly reaching speeds in excess of 100 mph.

entered I-290 eastbound to the York Road exit southbound into Elmhurst still traveling more than 100 mph. It is alleged that Simpson continued to drive at approximately 100 mph, entered downtown Elmhurst, disobeyed multiple stop signs and traveled the wrong way on one-way streets, at which time officers terminated the pursuit out of safety concerns.

It is alleged that as the officer pursued, Simpson weaved in and out of traffic and at one point, drove on the shoulder of the road all while reaching speeds of approximately 120 mph. It is further alleged Simpson

A short time later, Simpson was located on North Avenue and Rte. 83. At this point in time, a Department of Homeland Security helicopter began following Simpson. It is alleged that Simpson then drove on I-290 to I-355 to I-390 east where he exited at Thorndale Avenue to northbound Rte. 83. Simpson then parked his vehicle in front of a business in the 1000 block of No. Busse Rd. in Elk Grove Village at which time Bensenville police officers took him into custody.

“The allegations that Mr. Simpson sped through downtown Elmhurst at an extremely high rate of speed are outrageous,” Berlin said. “Thankfully, no innocent pedestrians were injured or worse as he allegedly raced through town. In 2023, DuPage County witnessed an increase of approximately 65 percent in aggravated fleeing and eluding cases. Our response to this dangerous epidemic has led to a 20 percent decrease in these cases so far this year and we will continue these efforts to ensure we don’t have a repeat of this type of dangerous behavior in 2024.

“Be warned, we will use every resource available to us, including the use of a helicopter as in this case, to ensure you are arrested, charged and prosecuted. I thank the Bensenville Police Department for their work and

SUBMITTED PHOTO Bensenville Independent

Rashaad Simpson

Pritzker proposes over $2 billion in spending growth, backed by tax increases for corporations, sportsbooks

changes to pay for the increase.

Pritzker ’s plan, laid out to lawmakers during his annual budget address, does not alter or increase state income tax rates. But it would more than double the tax rate paid by sportsbooks on gross revenues and extend an existing cap on operating losses businesses can claim on taxes.

Those two changes would raise about $726 million in revenue, erasing much of what had been projected as an $891 million deficit for the upcoming fiscal year.

created a $100,000 cap on such deductions in 2020, but it was set to expire in the 2025 tax year.

The proposal seeks to extend it while expanding the claimable losses to $500,000. The governor’s office estimated that over 90 percent of losses claimed by corporations will not be impacted.

All told, Pritzker’s budget anticipates $52.9 billion in general revenue and $52.7 billion in spending for the state’s main discretionary spending account in the fiscal year that begins July 1. The proposal now goes to lawmakers, beginning the annual negotiating process that generally concludes in May.

Another major change would increase the sports gambling tax to 35 percent from 15 percent. That tax is applied to the total profits collected by sportsbooks and will bring in about $200 million, according to the governor’s office.

Since sports gambling revenues were originally earmarked for infrastructure projects, the governor’s office proposes dedicating the first 15 percent for that purpose while allocating the rest to the general revenue fund.

“Now, I expect that some of you will want to spend more, and some of you will claim you want to spend less,” Pritzker said in his speech to lawmakers in the House chamber. “Know this: I am always open to good ideas that members of both parties have to more efficiently and effectively fulfill our obligations.”

The governor ’s budget office is also projecting current-year revenues will come in $199 million above previous estimates. The state expects the current fiscal year to end with $52.2 billion in total revenues, far outpacing the $50.4 billion in authorized spending in last year’s budget.

When including a proposed $1.2 billion supplemental spending plan for the current year, next year’s budget proposal would spend about $750 million more than the current year.

Revenue changes

Pritzker ’s spending plan calls for a total of about $1 billion in revenue he proposes generating in the upcoming fiscal year through changes in the tax code or state operations.

That includes $526 million by extending a cap on the amount of net operating losses that corporations can claim on taxes. Lawmakers

Other revenue changes include raising $101 million by capping a sales tax credit retailers are allowed to claim. Retailers receive a discount of 1.75 percent of the sales tax they collect as reimbursement for their efforts in collecting them. The governor’s change would allow retailers to claim a maximum of $1,000 per month. The change would generate another $85 million for local governments as well.

That proposal drew rebuke from groups such as the Illinois Chamber of Commerce and the Illinois Retail Merchants Association.

The governor’s office also proposed freeing up another $175 million in the general revenue fund by transferring some payments to public transit agencies to the road fund, which is separate from the state’s main discretionary spending account.

Since the road fund generally goes to infrastructure projects, that proposal was especially panned by the Transportation for Illinois Coalition, which is made up of several union, infrastructure and business groups.

The governor also proposed permanently eliminating the state’s 1 percent grocery tax.

See budget, Page 20

Lombard man acquitted of first-degree murder charges

Incident occurred outside the Spring Inn bar in Elmhurst in April, 2021

In April of 2021, a Lombard man, Ronald Dunbar, was charged with first-degree murder after stabbing a man from Yorkville in the chest during an incident outside the Spring Inn bar on Spring Road in Elmhurst.

Following a recent five-day trial, DuPage County Judge Ann Celine O’Hallaren Walsh acquitted Dunbar of five counts of first-degree murder and one count of unlawful use of a weapon.

In a Daily Herald report, O’Hallaren Walsh said events in and outside the bar on the evening of April 10, 2021, were factors as to why Dunbar was afraid he was going to be killed or injured by 28-year-old Karl Bomba, who died from a stab wound to the heart two days after the incident.

Dunbar stabbed Bomba with a folding buck knife that had a 3½-inch blade.

According to testimony reported in the Herald, a group that included Karl Bomba, Bomba’s girlfriend, and Bomba’s brother, Kurt, left Cuvee Cellars Bar and Wine Shop, and went over to

the Spring Inn bar, located across the street.

Kurt Bomba testified that Karl and his girlfriend were intoxicated after leaving Cuvee. Once inside Spring Inn, the couple eventually went into a restroom together.

A bartender noticed, told the group to leave, and along with Dunbar, shoved Karl and Kurt out the door along with a bar stool.

According to testimony reported in the Herald, one of the Bomba brothers threw the stool at the glass door, which the bartender had locked. Then, Karl punched a window on the door, which caused the window to shatter.

The bartender went outside. A video played in court showed Karl Bomba crossing Spring Road toward his brother’s car, but Karl came back when the bartender came outside. The video also showed the Bomba brothers tried to punch the bartender.

Dunbar was among several patrons

Park Board issues proclamation to late commissioner

Summer event named ‘Jim Geils Family Golf Nights’

At its board meeting on Wednesday, Feb. 21, Bensenville Park District Board president Rich Johnson signed a proclamation to adopt a resolution naming White Pines’ family golf nights in honor of former Park District commissioner Jim Geils. Jim Geils Family Golf Nights will feature a family-friendly environment for those of all skill levels.

Johnson, full of emotion, read the proclamation aloud.

“Jim Geils was an integral part of the park district and provided great leadership in his roles as commissioner, treasurer and secretary,” Johnson said. “Jim had the personality and the natural gift to deal with

the public on a day-to-day basis, as well as a true passion for the community.

“Jim Geils was loved and appreciated by an overwhelming number of residents of the community and was always there to assist in their time of need.”

Born in 1958, Geils passed away at the age of 65 in 2023. In addition to his service to the community and park district as a commissioner, he is remembered for following in the steps of his great grandfather, grandfather and father, providing funeral services dedicated to helping families.

Geils was appointed to the Park

District Board of Commissioners in May 2013 and was elected to the board in 2015. As a commissioner, he served as treasurer from May 2013 to May 2016 and then as secretary from June 2016 until May 2021.

“On behalf of myself, my mom, my sister and our family, we can’t thank [Executive Director Joe Vallez], President Johnson and the board enough for this great honor of my late father,” said Monica Geils Conroy.

“Anyone who knew my dad knew he loved golf and family, so putting these two together in the same sentence is just a great honor…I know he’s smiling down, knowing that

[Family Golf Nights] will live on in his name.”

Jim Geils Family Golf Nights will take place beginning at 5 p.m. the third Sunday each month from May through September. Fees are $5 for juniors 17 and under and $10 for adults. The cart fees are $10 per cart and $10 to ride along without playing. Tees will be moved up for each of the family nights, and players will be able to play at their own pace. An meal of a hot dog, chips and a drink will be available for purchase.

White Pines Golf Club is located at 500 W. Jefferson. For more information, visit WhitePinesGolf.com/ familygolf.

A statement from Village President Frank DeSimone Village Board has eyes set on improved infrastructure with 2024 annual budget

During my time as your Village President, my administration has worked on implementing policies with a focus on financial responsibility and reducing the tax burden for our residents. I’m pleased to share that at the end of 2023 the Bensenville Board of Trustees and I unanimously approved a new village tax levy, with a property tax freeze, in our 2024 Annual Budget that will result in a 0% increase in property taxes.

Not only do we believe we are accomplishing these goals through the property tax freeze, we’ve built this budget to use our tax dollars wisely to continue the work of improving our

infrastructure. Our 2024 budget includes $9 million in new streets, sidewalks and bike paths, a new state-of-the-art playground at Redmond Recreation Complex, the completion of the Senior and Community Center at Village Hall, and renovations to our historic Theatre and Ice Cream Shop. In addition to these financial goals, our budget also allows us to move Bensenville into the future with continued investment into our water and wastewater infrastructure.

I believe that this budget pushes us forward, improving our Village while lessening the financial burden our residents face. With

it we will keep building Bensenville into a community that creates opportunities for families and business alike. The 2024 Annual Budget is a continuation of the steps and goals we sought to achieve during my time as Village President.

Frank DeSimone, President

Village of Bensenville

Frank DeSimone has served as the Village President of Bensenville since 2017. He is currently serving in his second term after being reelected in 2021. He previously served on the Village Board as a Trustee from 2015-2017.

Five Venezuelan migrants charged with burglary at Oak Brook stores

DuPage County State’s Attorney Robert Berlin and Oak Brook Chief of Police Brian Strockis have announced that charges have been filed against five Venezuelan migrants for allegedly stealing more than $2,000 worth of merchandise from two Oak Brook stores.

Miguel Ortiz-Griman, 24; Felix Garcia-Diaz, 25; Daniel Fernandez-Rodriguez, 18; Samuel Alvarez-Garcia, 25; and Oswaldo Rivero-Herrera, 33, all of Venezuela with no known permanent address, appeared at First Appearance Court where Judge Joshua Dieden denied the state’s motion to detain the men pre-trial.

All five defendants are charged with one count of burglary (Class 2

felony) and one count of retail theft (Class 3 felony).

On Feb. 20 at approximately 7:57 p.m., a citizen reported to authorities he allegedly observed four men stealing merchandise from the Nike store located at 2100 block o W. 22nd St.

Officers with the Oak Brook Police Department located the vehicle allegedly involved parked outside the Ulta store located in the same mall.

Officers conducted surveillance on the vehicle, allegedly occupied by Ortiz-Griman and Garcia-Diaz, and a short time later allegedly observed Fernandez-Rodriguez, Alvarez-Garcia and Rivero-Herrera exit the Ulta store and enter the vehicle.

Officers attempted to initiate a traffic stop but the vehicle allegedly

drove around the officer’s squad car before being boxed in by other officers. All five men were taken into custody at this time.

It is alleged that the men stole nine fragrance items from the Ulta store with a value of approximately $1,331 as well as shoes and a hat from the Nike store valued at approximately $726.98.

“It is alleged that when the defendants were taken into custody, they were laughing at the officers and not taking this matter seriously,” Berlin said. “While the defendants in this case may not take the charges against them seriously, I can assure you, in DuPage County we take these allegations very seriously. Make no mistake, law enforcement in DuPage

District 88 offers numerous pathway opportunities for students

The district continues to work with colleges, universities and local businesses to enhance these options, and those collaborations are critical to assist with the labor shortage and to connect students to hands-on, immersive experiences, as well as certifications, credentials and scholarships. The focus is to connect them with viable shortterm and long-term career options and work-based learning that can provide a supported pathway through their college pursuits. We are always looking to develop more partnerships, and we invite those who are interested in supporting our students to visit dupage88. net/BusinessPartnerships.

As pupils register for courses for the 2024-25 school year, District 88 would

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County remains vigilant and if you steal from any of our retail establishments, you will be arrested, charged and prosecuted.”

“These five arrests add to the significant number of illegal migrant arrests we have had in the past four months,” Strockis said. “We will continue to be pro-active in our efforts in keeping our community safe. Much of society is tired of hearing about these types of crimes and I’d like to thank the witness for being alert and contacting the police in this incident.”

The next court date for all five defendants is scheduled March 18 for arraignment in front of Judge Mia McPherson.

• Chase

(Continued from front page)

like to remind students and parents/ guardians about the various pathway opportunities available. Course selection is a vital part of a student’s high school career, and parental involvement is essential to assist students in making successful academic choices. Families are encouraged to research the district’s Course Listing Guide via SchooLinks at dupage88.net/Pathways.

District 88 is proud to offer a comprehensive curriculum, including more than 30 Advanced Placement (AP) courses and more than 50 Dual-Credit/ Collegiate-Credit courses in 17 career pathway areas, along with award-winning fine arts programming.

District 88 students have access to

college-level and dual-credit classes, as well as externally credentialed and dual-credit career pathways, in areas such as automotive technology, culinary arts, business careers, engineering, medical careers, teacher preparation, building trades and more. These courses allow students to potentially earn college credit while in high school, saving them an average of $1 million annually.

Our students also earn more than 1,000 career certifications each year in the areas of Agriculture, Food and Natural Resources; Human and Public Services; Manufacturing, Engineering, Technology and Trades; Finance and Business Services; and Health Sciences and Technology.

good judgment on this case and for their continuing efforts in keeping our roadways safe.”

“Without a strong partnership with DuPage County State’s Attorney Bob Berlin’s office we wouldn’t be able to do what we do,” Schulze said. “Bob Berlin and his team are second to none. We were able to bring this alleged offender to justice and in the end, he endangered the lives of all involved because he chose to drive a motor vehicle recklessly instead of merely pulling over when he was signaled to do so.”

Simpson’s next court appearance is scheduled March 18 for arraignment in front of Judge Ann Celine O’Hallaren Walsh.

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Spider screams and other exercises in silliness

It all started with a quote on social media: “Imagine if spiders screamed when you found them.”

First off, wouldn’t that make finding a spider doubly scary? At least horror movie jump scary. I, for one, am glad spiders are incapable of screaming—at least at a vibrational level that is heard by mere human ears.

But, beyond that, this got me thinking.

What if snakes were afraid of us because our arms and legs made us look all gangly, dangly and threatening? What if they cringed at the thought of our skin—its soft and suppleness making it ugly, not at all beautifully scaly and sleek?

What if mosquitoes hated drinking our blood but they only did it because their culture told them we needed it to restore our souls, so in biting us they believed they were saving our very beings?

What if skunks loved their own scent so much they hoarded it and only shared it with humans because they wanted us enhance our trip into the forest with a whiff or two of the intoxicating aroma only they could provide?

What if dogs were secretly plotting against us with and were in cahoots with cats, both working in an attempt to first take over the household and next take over the world? What if this has already occurred but we aren’t aware of it because the dogs and cats are still incognito, acting like pets, in an ingenious application of supreme power.?

What if chickens could fly, but they don’t because they don’t want to have to go south for the winter because it’s easier to just stay in the coop? Not saying chickens are lazy or anything (just smart).

What if bees were key to onethird of the world’s food production due to their amazing pollination talents, making them essential to not only people, but the planet?

Oh wait, they are.

By JILL PERTLER Slices of Life

What if dolphins were talking about us behind our backs?

Oh wait, they probably are.

What if there was a creature that literally lived in, had sex in, gave birth in and ate poop? Been there, dung that.

What if most birds were born with acrophobia, and their fear kept them from flying? Would ground birds still be birds or just ostriches and penguins?

What if elephants had body-image issues? Would they eat less grass? Would a skinny elephant look more like a giraffe?

What if a zebra had an identity crisis, not knowing if it were black with white strips or white with black stripes so it scrubbed every inch of its body with sand and a squeegee but despite all its efforts it remained both black and white and the unknowing continued, like a thorn in its side, driving the poor zebra to the brink of insanity, simply wishing for the simple life of a horse?

What if sheep weren’t really following the crowd, but leading it, but in such an ingenious way as to hide their far superior intelligence over the human species?

What if all the species— animals—on the planet weren’t what they seemed, but were inherently worthy and capable of so much more?

What if the same could be said for humans? Wouldn’t that be grand?

Isn’t it?

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

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State Sen. Suzy Glowiak Hilton (D-Western Springs) issued the following statement after the governor outlined his Fiscal Year 2025 budget proposal:

“The governor’s budget proposal highlights Illinois’ continued commitment to K-12 education by including a $350 million increase to fund our school districts. By providing this additional funding, families can take comfort in knowing that their schools will have the proper resources for children to succeed. Funding our schools with state tax dollars helps alleviate the property tax burden on residents.

“Increased funding for needbased tuition assistance for students provides them with the financial stability to pursue their dreams. If we want to keep our students here, increased funding for higher education is a key step. Making college more affordable gives students in our community the opportunity to live, learn and work in Illinois for years to come.

“The proposed increased investment for the Meals on Wheels program improves accessibility to nutritious meals for our seniors. This community-based assistance offers our older adults the support they deserve when they need it. We need to ensure we are continuing our promise

to provide seniors with the respect and dignity they deserve.

“While I was pleased to see more funding for our students and seniors, I was disappointed that there was not an increase in investment toward the Local Government Distribution Fund, which puts money back into the hands of our local municipalities. People are counting on us to make common sense decisions in Springfield. As budget negotiations continue in the months ahead, I am going to fight to see us get to a place where the budget is fiscally sound, helps our local economy and represents our needs.”

State Rep. Terra Costa Howard

State Rep. Terra Costa Howard, D-Glen Ellyn, issued the following statement after Gov. J.B. Pritzker gave his annual budget address last week:

“As I listened to the governor’s budget address, I felt proud of the great progress that we have made together in putting our state on a solid fiscal foundation, as proven by our nine credit upgrades over the past five years.

“As we get to work on this new budget, I’m going to keep standing up for our public schools, advocating for increased mental health services and protecting our reproductive freedom.

“I know that the people of our

communities will demand a balanced budget that reflects our shared values, and I am committed to making sure their voices are heard in Springfield.”

State Rep. Diane Blair-Sherlock

State Rep. Diane Blair-Sherlock, D-Villa Park, issued the following statement after Gov. J.B. Pritzker gave his annual budget address last week:

“With this year’s budget, we have an opportunity to draft a plan that further invests in our classrooms, comprehensively reinforces public safety, expands health care access and creates opportunities for residents of all ages. We should continue to build on the progress made toward early childhood education with Smart Start, and must prioritize services that support people with disabilities and reproductive freedoms.

“Our approach needs to be people focused, and to continue our ongoing effort to strengthen the state’s fiscal standing. Responsible budgets in recent years have secured needed credit rating upgrades—saving critical tax dollars—and have better positioned us to meet challenges facing working families.

“It’s critical we continue to move forward in a smart way, and I look forward to reviewing the governor’s priorities in detail.”

York Township publishes a newsletter 10 times a year, called the “Senior Sun.” The supervisor is not supposed to publish his personal position in a publicly-paid-for newsletter. No matter what he thinks, this is wrong and needs to stop. None of us can have our local government publish our political views and have the government pay for it; why should he?

Editor’s Note: Your comments were forwarded to John Valle, York Township supervisor, who responded: “As duly elected Supervisor of York Township I believe it is important, in the interest of transparency, to let the citizens and residents of York Township know my personal opinions on matters of public interest.

“And while I do not think any lines were crossed in my February Senior Sun column by expressing my opinion, you can assure your reader that in the interest of avoiding even the appearance of impropriety, I will be more careful in my choice.” * * *

We all know grandkids are great and change our lives. So, my third granddaughter is in college and we miss spending time with her. So, last July, when the opportunity happened, we adopted two boys, 7 and 8 years old. At first we fostered them as it was exciting and challenging at the same time. But after a month, we knew we wanted to adopt them. They adapted easily to our home, running around the main floor and basement, eating well, asking for “treats,” loving playing in our fenced backyard. So everything is going great and I thought you might like a “feel good” story in this section of the newspaper. Oh, by the way—did I mention that they were cats? Have a great day! * * *

So the former, twice impeached president, with a 91-count indictment still pending, says he runs a “perfect” company. Really? He has filed for six business bankruptcies. Every time he endorses someone they lose, and sometimes they lose because they are Republicans. Too late now to try to get away from this person who has so many lies on record. * * *

Hi, this is Lombard calling in regard to District 87’s $183 million referendum question. I just have one thought. They want to cut holes into the buildings at Glenbard South to put windows in because they claim that the students have a lack of daylight. Are you serious? Come on folks. The kids are there to learn; they’re not there to watch gym class or count the leaves on the trees or work on their suntans. This is just a waste of money. It’s a school that has done well for the past few decades without this problem; why does it have to be addressed now? Thank you. * * *

So our illustrious governor is pledging another $182 million to the migrant response? What about asking the constituents, aka the taxpayers who are funding this, what we want? State programs and funding for programs to help residents of our state are being pared down, yet we can afford $182 million? I am not heartless but this has become a crisis, in my opinion, and one with dire financial consequences for Illinois residents. And to think, some of the people who are benefitting from all this return our generosity by shoplifting at the mall in Oak Brook, driving under the influence, committing other crimes and taking advantage of food stamps and health care. If for no other reason, I will not vote for Biden, because he has made a complete mess of the border situation, and the

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trickle-down effect has hit our state hard. Same with JB Pritzker. For him to take being a sanctuary state to this level shows he has no regard for taking care of his own residents first.

So, District 87 boasts great graduation rates, test scores, etc., but says it needs better infrastructure and other improvements to its campuses to make that happen. How, then, were these successful students able to accomplish so much without the best-of-the-best classrooms, labs, etc.? Based on my experience as a Glenbard East parent, and that was years ago before computers in the classroom, it was all about the classroom: great teachers, good textbooks, teaching kids how to think. No fancy labs, cafeteria and other “luxury” items. Not a wish list, the administration says? The district proposes to spend $129 million of its (our tax) money already, and cannot pare down even further needs versus wants? And the board is a good steward of our tax dollars? Not if they feel a need to pinch us for $183 million. Please send a strong message that we cannot keep getting squeezed, when these kids are already getting a quality education, by the district’s own words. Vote no.

* * *

U.S. Rep Raja Krishnamoorthi says he is finding room for bipartisan cooperation on national security. Back in the Kennedy-Eisenhower days of real Democrats and Republicans, the two had common goals, just different ways to accomplish them, and then, as now, with the Democrats, that meant spending our tax dollars, while Republicans leaned toward finding a fiscally conservative way to solve a problem. Fast forward to today, and the Democrats are still wanting to throw money at our problems, and when Republicans appear to be fiscally conservative, they are accused of not caring about whatever issue the Democrats want to spend big bucks on. Just look at Illinois, and the governor managing to find over $180 million to spend on helping the migrants.

* * *

I agree with the caller about the LED bulbs. Before that it was those CFLs, or compact fluorescent lights, that were supposed to last a really long time. Ha, that was a joke played on us. Those bulbs, of which I have a few left, do not last anywhere near as long as they were advertised to do. A warranty is only as good as the paper it’s written on. By the way, Goodwill has the newer bulbs at very cheap prices, so it is worth a look to save some money.

* * *

The U.S. Senate passed a $95 billion aid package for Ukraine, Israel, Gaza and Taiwan. The U.S. House of Representatives has yet to address this bill. Where are they getting the $95 billion? It is not in this year’s federal budget. It gets added to our unsustainable national debt. The current U.S. national debt is $34 trillion. The debt has increased $6 trillion in the last three years. The U.S. can’t take care of its own people but taxpayers are spending billions on illegal immigrants and foreign aid. Let’s take care of our own, have a balanced budget and quit the deficit spending.

I don’t care which political party you support, we are all on the hook for

the reckless spending.

* * *

Even though President Biden is living the life of luxury with many vacations included, he is the product of elder abuse. He should be placed in a senior living environment and take out the daily stresses of being pressed to address the public and try to run our country. He embarrasses himself and his past accomplishments, if there are any.

* * *

Hi Villa Park VFW calling, just inviting everybody to come join us for our Lenten special fish fry now through March 29. Come and join us for some delicious walleye or perch. You can also play the Queen of Hearts and our slot machines. Can’t wait to see everybody there.

* * *

President Biden claims he needs the power and finances to take control of the border and illegal immigrants pouring in beyond our control. He has a wall around his estate. All Biden had to do was finish the wall that Trump started. Biden has lost his use of reason and we Democrats deserve a better choice of candidates for 2024.

* * *

Hello Lombard. I am voting no on District 87’s referendum. Why? I think there is great bias in that district. They are busing kids 45 minutes or so to another high school where they could cut that time sending them to West instead of East. Also West seems to be more advantageous to the money that is being allocated.

We need to change this bias on the school board. Look at your election candidates and choose wisely.

* * *

I want to thank the Lombard Post Office for our carrier Iris. It was recently her last day and she left us a note thanking us. I’ve lived in this house 48 years and we have never had a more competent, kind and personable carrier in all that time. Good luck to her and her next route and thank you so much for all your hard work.

* * *

I heard about how Governor Pritzker took the governor of Texas to task in his budget speech about migrants being sent up here in freezing temperatures wearing flip-flops and T-shirts. His quote was, “Think about that the next time a politician from Texas wants to lecture you about being a good Christian.” Hey Mr. Pritzker, spare me the lecture about being good. Since you support Illinois being a sanctuary state, you knowingly thumb your nose at our immigration laws and invite people who are in this country illegally to live here. I see that you want to use another $182 million of taxpayer dollars for the migrants. Do us all a favor. Since you didn’t have any trouble spending $350 million on your own two campaigns for governor, and donated millions more to Democratic candidates, $182 million is a drop in the bucket for you. Take $182 million out of your own pocket, give it to the migrants and save taxpayers $182 million.

District 87 to hold information forums

Officials to outline March 19 referendum details

Glenbard High School District 87 invites community members to referendum information forums at each of its high schools to learn about the district’s facility needs and its March 19 facility improvements referendum.

The referendum information forums are scheduled on the following dates:

• 7 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 29, at Glenbard East High School

• 7 p.m. Wednesday, March 6, at Glenbard North High School

• 7 p.m. Thursday, March 7, at Glenbard West High School

During these special events, community members may:

• Take a tour of critical need areas

• View projected designs of updated learning spaces

• Hear an overview of the referendum funding model

• Participate in Q&A session

Individuals and groups with an interest in the referendum will have an opportunity to ask questions and make comments about the referendum.

The district’s four high schools, which range in age from 51 to 101 years old, have numerous capital improvement needs. The district’s March 19 referendum seeks to secure funding necessary to make crucial facility improvements.

District 87’s 10-year facility master plan and March 19 referendum are focused on:

• Addressing real needs

• Continuing responsible planning

• Protecting what matters most

District 87 is working to address the following needs:

• Safety and security

• Classroom and science lab improvements

• Infrastructure

• Overcrowding

• Access to student support services

Learn more about Glenbard High School District 87’s facility needs and referendum at glenbard87.org.

The search is on for Lombard’s 2024 Woman, Man of the Year

The Lombard Service League and the Lombard Rotary Club are seeking nominations for Lombard’s Woman of the Year and Man of the Year.

Once again, the Lombard Service League and Rotary Club are working together to honor a distinguished woman and man who give their time, talent and services to benefit others in the community.

• Residents, businesses and organizations are invited to submit nominees deserving of this honor.

• Nominees must reside at a Lombard mailing address.

• Letters of nomination must not exceed 500 words.

• The names, addresses, and telephone numbers of the nominee, as well as the person nominating, must be included in the letter.

Nominations for Woman of the Year can be mailed to:

Lombard Woman of the Year

Lombard Service League P.O. Box 482 Lombard, IL 60148; or emailed to: donnag@elmhurst. edu.

Nominations for Man of the Year can be mailed to:

Lombard Man of the Year Lombard Rotary Club P.O. Box 1003 Lombard, IL 60148; or emailed to dmcnicholas@huck. bouma.com.

The deadline for nominations is Friday, April 12. Confirmation of receipt of nomination will be provided.

The 2024 Woman of the Year and Man of the Year will be announced Monday, April 29, at 6 p.m. at the Helen Plum Library, 411 S. Main St., Lombard. Guests will include past honorees. This year’s honorees will be recognized during the Lilac Parade on Sunday, May 19.

Glenbard District 87 announces National Merit finalists

The following Glenbard District 87 students have been named National Merit Scholarship finalists: Glenbard East students Jason Cisnero and Kayla Hickman and Glenbard West students Annika Bhagwaker, Ishaan

Obituary

MADALENE R. CANNATA, 94

Madalene R. Cannata, nee Brown, age 94, a longtime Lombardian, passed away on Feb. 23, 2024.

Funeral Prayers will be held on Feb. 28 at Brust Funeral Home followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at Christ the King Catholic Church, Lombard. Interment was at Mt. Carmel Cemetery. Info: www.brustfuneralhome.com or 888-629-0094.

Gupta and James MacDonald. Finalists have met high academic standards, received a recommendation from their principal and earned SAT scores that confirm the earlier qualifying test performance.

Coming event

Single mothers group to meet March 10

SHE Single Mothers Support Group Monthly Event on Sunday, March 10, 12:15 p.m. at Elmhurst Christian Reformed Church, 149 W. Brush Hill Road. We offer a complimentary lunch for all who attend, free child care (ages infants -12 years), and support from other single mothers. Come hear our motivational speaker, Eve Senti, and participate in a craft. RSVP to elmhurstcrc.org/she.

Getting a head start on planting

The Helen Plum Library on Wednesday, Feb. 21, played host to the Lombard Garden Club, which held its first “seed swap,” where members and guests could bring in seeds to swap for others. The seeds were categorized, and laid out on tables for attendees to leave, and take—some of which were organic or heirloom, noted Barb Madigan, garden club president. In keeping with the theme of the evening, the garden club even provided seed-based snacks. Madigan also mentioned that the March 22 meeting will include a presentation on seed starting by Paul Stoffels, with the University of Illinois Extension. It will take place at 1 p.m. at First Church of Lombard, United Church of Christ, 220 S. Main St., Lombard. Visit lombardgardenclub.org for more information on the club and its events.

Pictured (left to right) are Ted Brust, Anna Weselak, Pam Lohman, Rick

JANE CHARMELO PHOTOS Rock Valley Publishing

SUBMITTED

Galfano, owner Khurram Shehzad, Kathy Volpe, Dee Taggett, Marybeth Moore, Leticia Serracin and Jeffrey Rohloff.

Coming events

GPS program March 6

The Glenbard Parent Series: (GPS) Navigating Healthy Families will present “Girls and Boys on the Brink: Helping Teens Thrive in an Era of Increased Anxiety, Depression and Social Media” with journalist Donna Jackson Nakazawa at noon and 7 p.m. on Wednesday, March 6, via Zoom. Nakazawa will explain why young people seem more anxious and prone to depression and self-harm than ever before. Based on cutting-edge research, Nakazawa will explain the modern pressures making it difficult for adolescents and shed light on ways to identify and prevent mental health concerns. She will share strategies for raising emotionally healthy youth and helping kids who are struggling. Participants will learn how to build a sense of safety and security and foster long-term resilience in adolescents. Go to glenbardgps.org for further information and the links to these webinars. To be placed on a reminder list for GPS events or submit a question in advance, contact Gilda Ross, Glenbard District 87 student and community projects coordinator, at gilda_ross@glenbard.org or at 630942-7668. Continuing professional development units are available for these events.

International Women’s Day Breakfast March 8

The Zonta Club of Oak Brook will be hosting an International Women’s Day Breakfast on Friday, March 8, at Maggiano’s in Oak Brook. Registration begins at 7:30 a.m. and the program begins at 8 a.m. Presenting at the breakfast will be Rachel Moody, program manager of the Magdalene House, who will speak about how they assist women who are recovering from trafficking. The cost of the breakfast is $30. For more information or for tickets, go to iwdboakbrook@gmail.com.

Helen Plum Library programs

Senior Health Insurance and Medicare Counseling Tuesday, March 5, from 9 a.m. to noon. Help with Medicare or Medicare supplements is available in person. Get free oneon-one Medicare counseling with a Senior Health Insurance Program (SHIP) counselor provided by the Illinois Department on Aging and the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation, Division of Insurance. To schedule your 30-minute appointment, please call Stephanie Howanietz at 331-758-0111. For more information, visit aim-cil.org. Women in the Blues Sunday, March 10, at 2 p.m. Join award-winning singer and songwriter Donna Herula to enjoy songs and learn about the history of women in blues music. Discover the impressive performers who paved the way, such as Bessie Smith and Bonnie Raitt. Register at helenplum.org or by calling 630-627-0316.

Glenbard South Floral Symphony March 12

Come to Glenbard South High School on Tuesday, March 12, at 7 p.m. for the Floral Symphony. This

Budget reaction: Retailers, municipalities

event is in its 31st year, and is a fundraiser benefiting the Glenbard South Music Program. Come watch local florists create beautiful floral arrangements right before your eyes. Those floral arrangements will be raffled off throughout the night to attendees, and there will be separate raffles of donated items from businesses in the community. On top of this, Glenbard South music students will perform beforehand and at intermission. Tickets are $20 in advance and $25 at the door. Tickets can be purchased at: https://www.gsboosters.org/floralsymphony24/p/tix.

Lombard Chamber AM

Connect March 1

AM Connect - Friday March 1, 7:30-9 a.m. at Fairfield Inn & Suites, 645 W. North Ave., Lombard. Visit with us Friday at our monthly get together to hear Steve Evans, the managing partner of Chicago IP Law. He is a patent and trial attorney with offices in Chicago and Naperville. Prior to becoming a patent attorney, he was a design engineer for NASA. Steve will discuss and answer questions regarding intellectual property law, which includes patents, copyrights, trademarks, and trade secrets. You don’t want to miss this interesting topic. Visit Lombardchamber.com for more information.

Casino Night

A night of nostalgia for the Roaring ’20s will be featured at the 2024 Casino Night, hosted by the DuPage County Historical Museum Foundation on Friday, March 8 at Arrowhead Golf Club. Try your luck at popular casino games, indulge in fancy hors d’oeuvres, enjoy a cocktail and compete for fabulous prizes via a silent auction and raffle. The evening’s theme will be reminiscent of the Jazz Age. The presenting sponsor is Fairhaven Wealth Management. The evening begins at 7 p.m. and goes until 10:30 p.m. Arrowhead Golf Club is located at 26W151 Butterfield Road, Wheaton. Individual tickets are $125. A group of 10 tickets is priced at $1,000. All tickets include $50 in charity chips. For more information and to buy tickets, please visit dupagemuseum.org. Casino Night proceeds help support the DuPage County Historical Museum’s programs, events and exhibits Website: dupagemuseum.org; Facebook: facebook/dupagemuseum.

American Heritage Concert March 3

American Heritage Concert Sunday, March 3, at 3 p.m. at the Maple Street Chapel, Main and Maple streets. Performed by the 21-piece orchestra in its 22nd annual concert. Highlights from “The Lion King,” “American Road Trip,” a medley of tunes celebrating the nation’s states and cities. “Ashokan Farewell,” (theme of PBS The Civil War). “Danzón No. 2” by Arturo Marquez. “Russian Sailors’ Dance.” Audience veterans will be recognized in The Armed Forces Salute. Tickets are $25. Visit www.maplestreetchapel. org/AmHrHome.HTM for more information.

critical of Pritzker’s proposed tax changes Comptroller praises ‘targeted approach’ as revenue proposals draw GOP, interest group ire

By Alex Abbeduto, Cole Longcor and Jerry Nowicki

Capitol News illiNois

The annual process of negotiating the state budget kicked off last week with Gov. JB Pritzker proposing a $52.7 billion spending plan that includes hundreds of millions of dollars in new spending and tax increases, particularly for businesses.

The governor’s proposal to generate more than $1 billion in revenue through tax code changes—which would affect the state’s road fund, tax rates for retailers and funding to local governments—drew criticisms from industry groups such as the Illinois Retail Merchants Association, the Illinois Municipal League, and a coalition of transportation and union groups.

Republicans generally criticized the budget for relying on the revenue proposals which are not yet contained in law, faulting the governor for raising taxes to cover new spending.

Pritzker’s fellow Democrats were generally supportive of the plan, although factions of the party laid out their own priorities.

Interest groups

Some of the starkest criticisms of Pritzker’s proposal came from the advocacy groups for the organizations that will be hardest hit by his proposed revenue changes.

That includes the Illinois Municipal League, which called Pritzker’s plan to repeal a 1 percent statewide tax on grocery items “insulting,” because it does not include a corresponding reimbursement plan for local governments.

Lawmakers paused the tax for fiscal year 2023, but that move reimbursed municipalities for the $400 million not collected due to the temporary hiatus.

The IML particularly criticized this year’s proposal in light of continued underfunding of the state’s local government distributive fund. Municipalities are currently getting less than 7 percent from the state’s income tax, although last year’s budget contained a small increase. That’s less than the 10 percent cut municipalities were getting prior to the passage of a state income tax hike in 2011.

“It’s yet another cut for local revenues at the same time municipalities are given more and more unfunded mandates and less and less cooperation from the state,” IML CEO Brad Cole said in a statement.

But Pritzker’s office said municipalities seeking to replace the tax money can issue grocery taxes at the local level instead.

Pritzker’s office also pointed to another proposed change—a $1,000 monthly cap on a tax credit claimed by Illinois retailers for administering the state’s sales tax, which will generate an estimated $85 million for local governments and $101 million for the state.

But that measure drew the ire of the influential Illinois Retail Merchants Association.

“The retail discount is a partial reimbursement to the hard-working retailers across Illinois who collect sales

taxes on behalf of state and local governments,” IRMA president and CEO Rob Karr said in a statement. “Contrary to claims, this proposal does not just target large retail stores but would impact retailers of all sizes, from independent grocers to the corner hardware store.”

The Transportation for Illinois Coalition, which advocates for transportation infrastructure investment, said it was “disappointed” with a separate proposal to move $175 million in public transit spending from the state’s general fund to its Road Fund – a source that’s required by law to fund transportation-related projects.

The coalition, which includes influential labor groups and trade associations among others, said the plan would “pit transportation needs against each other.” It estimated diverting the funds could cost the Road Fund $1 billion in possible improvements “over the next few years.”

Groups such as the Illinois Associ-

ation of Rehabilitation Facilities and the Community Behavioral Healthcare Association also noted that while they agreed with Pritzker’s plan in some areas, it lacked specific funding for their workforces.

IARF President and CEO Josh Evans said in a statement he was “deeply concerned” that Pritzker’s plan lacked pay increases for direct service providers for people with developmental disabilities, particularly as the state is moving to end a federal consent decree that provides court oversight of its system of care.

The Community Behavioral Healthcare Association and the Illinois Health and Hospital Association both praised Pritzker’s proposed changes to the state’s insurance code, a package of proposals aimed at controlling strategies that insurers use to reduce the amount of health care patients receive.

See reaction, Page 9

Three face charges following vehicle theft investigation Suspects were on pre-trial release from other incidents

After a three-week investigation, the Elmhurst Police Department has announced charges against three men in connection to alleged vehicle theft crimes affecting Elmhurst and several other suburban communities.

Kamil Spieczynski, Sebastian Nawrot, and Mateusz Wojtowicz face charges in DuPage County after being taken into custody by Elmhurst police detectives and assisting agencies.

On the morning of Feb. 1, a business reported the overnight theft of a flatbed trailer from a fenced parking lot on the 500 block of N. Michigan St. in Elmhurst.

Video surveillance at the scene and nearby license plate reader cameras assisted detectives in determining a

Police Reports

The Addison and Bensenville police departments recently reported the following arrests and citations.

Persons who are charged with domestic battery are not named in order to protect the victim’s privacy.

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

Addison

Feb. 20

Austin D. Panter, 27, of Glendale Heights, was charged with DUIdrugs, driving too fast for conditions, driving the wrong way and no insurance at 7:53 p.m.

Feb. 18

Christian E. Palominovillacres, 36, of Addison, was charged with DUI in the 900 block of E. Lake at 1:31 a.m.

Feb. 17

A 27-year-old Addison woman

Ford pickup truck, stolen just prior in Northlake, was used to remove the trailer from Elmhurst at approximately 12:30 a.m.

Detectives also learned that a black Toyota Prius registered to Kamil Spieczynski was parked near the scene during the reported Elmhurst theft. Spieczynski and Mateusz Wo-

was charged with two counts of domestic battery at 10:19 a.m.

Feb. 16

Juan Garcia Valencia, 27, of Addison, was charged with battery in the 600 block of N. Swift at 10:23 p.m.

A 20-year-old Addison man was charged with domestic battery in the 400 block of S. Cherry Hill at 11:18 p.m.

Feb. 15

Nichole A. Looze, 37, of Bensenville, was charged with theft under $300 in the 700 block of E. Lake at 5:49 a.m.

Bensenville

Feb. 21, 1 p.m. in the 1000 block of Foster Avenue, a complainant reported a known suspect refused to return company equipment after being let go. This incident is under investigation. BEPC2400134

Feb. 21, 2:29 p.m. in the 600 block of Rte. 83, a complainant reported a fraudulent company somehow ob-

Active Senior Expo coming to Addison March 13

Active Senior Expo, an event “dedicated to inform, educate and entertain senior citizens,” will be held on Wednesday, March 13 from 9:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Lorena’s Banquets, 543 W. Lake Street in Addison.

Active Senior Expo features hundreds of products and services designed specifically for seniors. Offerings include health care, retirement communities, assisted living, financial, insurance, legal, estate planning, home care, consumer products, government programs and more. Special attractions include free seminars on Medicare, energy efficiency and consumer fraud; free health screenings and door prize drawings. A Farmer’s Market featuring fresh produce will be presented by BlueCross BlueShield of Illinois. Live entertainment with Fran Marie will take place at 11:30 a.m.

No registration is required and regular admission to the event is $2. However, free admission coupons are widely available and attendees can obtain a free admission coupon by visiting activeseniorexpo.net. Parking is free.

The presenting sponsor of Active Senior Expo is Chicagoland’s Senior News, “The Premier News Source for Active Adults Age 50 and Better.” Major sponsors are BlueCross BlueShield of Illinois, Nicor Gas Energy Efficiency Program, Alternatives for Seniors and Rock Valley Publishing. For more information, contact Silver Star Expositions at (630) 6206347. E-Mail: activeseniorexpo@hotmail.com

jtowicz had been arrested by Illinois State Police and Algonquin Police in December 2023 for possession of stolen motor vehicles and were on pretrial release in those criminal cases.

Investigators also determined Sebastian Nawrot had been a prior employee of the Northlake business, reporting the related overnight pickup truck theft and had access to the truck keys.

Detectives from the Elmhurst and Bensenville police departments conducted a surveillance of the Toyota

tained their insurance information. This incident is under investigation.

BEPC2400135

Feb. 20, 9:20 a.m. in the 100 block of W. Grand Ave., a complainant reported a known suspect cashed a fraudulent check. This incident is under investigation. BEPC2400130

Feb. 20, 3:39 a.m. in the 200 block of S. Center St., a complainant reported an unknown suspect rummaged through their vehicle. the suspect fled westbound. Lottery tickets were taken but were dropped in the driveway. Itasca and Wood Dale police assisted with the perimeter. No results with the Elk Grove Police Department K9. This incident is under investigation.

BEPC2400129

Feb. 19, 2:17 p.m. in the 100 block of Eastview, a complainant reported an unknown suspect broke into his vehicle and peeled the steering wheel. This incident is under investigation. BEPC2400126

Feb. 19, 9:14 p.m. in the 800 block of E. Green St., a complainant

Prius during the early morning hours of Feb. 13, and observed Spieczynski, Nawrot and Wojtowicz allegedly stealing two Volvo semi-truck tractors from a lot on the 600 block of Rte. 83 in Bensenville.

One of the trucks became disabled in mud and was abandoned by the suspects. The suspects then reportedly left the scene in a stolen 2022 Volvo semi-truck tractor driven by Nawrot and the Toyota Prius occupied by Spieczynski and Wojtowicz.

Illinois State Police attempted to stop the truck; however, it fled and was found abandoned near Covered Bridge and Barrington Rds. in South Barrington.

Elmhurst detectives attempted to stop the Toyota but again, it fled. Of-

reported an unknown suspect broke into two semi-trailers. No products were taken. This incident is under investigation. BEPC2400127

Feb. 18, 7:53 a.m. in the 700 block of Fairway Drive, a complainant reported a trailer parked on the northeast corner of the property was entered and approximately 48 boxes of air fryers were unlawfully taken. This incident is under investigation. BEPC2400124

Feb. 17, 3:10 a.m. in the 200 block of W. Main St., a complainant reported a known suspect broke a window of the business. This incident is under investigation. BEP24001982

Feb. 17, 9:27 a.m. in the 1-100 block of S. Addison St., a complainant reported a known suspect opened a Discover credit card using her information before fleeing to Thailand. This incident is under investigation. BEPC2400121

Feb. 17, 10:54 a.m. in the 100 block of W. Main St., a complainant reported an unknown suspect entered their unlocked vehicle and

ficers found it abandoned on Liberty Drive in South Barrington.

A search was conducted and Spieczynski was located in a field nearby and arrested. Nawrot and Wojtowicz were not located at the time but were captured on home and business security video on the morning of the incident.

On Feb. 14, Elmhurst detectives investigated a truck parking lot in Woodstock, Ill., where Spieczynski had been renting space.

Detectives located two stolen vehicles, a 2020 Ford Transit van that was reported stolen in Bensenville on Jan. 27, and a 2017 Maserati Levante SUV that was reported stolen in Chicago on Aug. 13, 2023. Both vehicles were impounded by police.

stole their clutch style wallet. This incident is under investigation.

BEPC2400122

Feb. 17, 4:16 p.m. near W. Grand Ave. and S. York Road, Benjamin Gomez-Velasco, 18, of Bensenville, was arrested for driving while under the influence of alcohol and other traffic violations. BEPC2400123

Feb. 16, 10:21 a.m. near Beeline Drive and Meyer Road, a complainant reported illegal dumping of oil by an unknown suspect. This case is under investigation.

BEPC2400118

Feb. 16, 11:53 p.m. in the 200 block of Poppy Lane, David Guadalupe, 30, of Bensenville, was arrested for reckless discharge of a firearm, revoked FOID and criminal damage to government property for breaking a booking camera in cell.

BEPC2400120

Feb. 16, 1:01 a.m. in the 1000 block of S. York Road, a complainant reported a battery with a known suspect. This incident is under investigation. BEPC2400117

District 88 updates strategic plan

District 88 is committed to providing an environment that promotes excellence for all students and prepares each child for a successful future.

To help ensure that environment, the district is updating its strategic plan, which was last reviewed and adopted during the 2018-19 school year. This process establishes the district’s areas of focus and future direction. The strategic plan was developed with a culturally responsive lens to reflect the district’s diverse student population and learning community. “The strategic plan is the foundation on which

District 88 parents/guardians are invited to complete the Illinois 5Essentials Survey, which is now open! This research-based survey helps identify strengths and areas for improvement in a school’s learning environment and provides stakeholders with a voice in improving their schools.

we operate,” said Dr. Jean Barbanente, District 88 Superintendent. “The updated plan truly reflects the depth and breadth of our work, and it will be a living document that forms the basis of our efforts. We have a responsibility to be transparent with and accountable to our stakeholders, and this allows us to achieve that objective.”

The plan consists of three overarching areas of focus, or “pillars” (Teaching and Learning; Student Voice, Climate and Culture; and Family and Community as Agency).

Each pillar has three goals, and each

The survey provides a comprehensive picture of a school’s organizational culture in an individualized report measuring five “essentials” critical for school success.

Those are: Effective Leaders Collaborative Teachers Involved Families

goal is measured by corresponding metrics.

The district’s updated Mission is “to prepare students to be college and career ready in a diverse society.”

The district’s updated Vision is “to cultivate inclusive and rigorous learning opportunities for students to pursue individualized pathways to success.”

To display the content of the plan visually – and to ensure it’s tangible and meaningful – the district developed an online dashboard. This site shows the metrics in each area through data points, statistics, charts and graphs.

Supportive Environment

Ambitious Instruction

District 88 truly values receiving feedback, and no individual survey response will be shared.

The goal is to gather a variety of input to ensure the district continues to accomplish its Mission and Vision.

Kamil Spieczynski

Sebastian Nawrot Mateusz Wojtowicz

• Reaction

(Continued from page 7)

Republican response

The Republican response generally focused on the increase in proposed spending, particularly for programs serving noncitizens, and the tax increases needed to pay for it.

Pritzker’s plan seeks to raise $526 million by extending a cap on the amount of net operating losses that corporations can claim on taxes. Lawmakers created a $100,000 cap on such deductions in 2020, but it was set to expire in the 2025 tax year. The proposal would cap that number at $500,000 for FY 25.

Pritzker proposed generating another $93 million by capping a standard deduction claimed by millions of Illinoisans at $2,550, rather than allowing it to increase to $2,775 as it was slated to, due to inflation.

“After last year’s session we made something very clear as a caucus – the actions taken by Democrats as it relates to an inflated budget would require tax increases,” House Republican Leader Tony McCombie said.

She said the fact that the budget requires several tax increases to meet proposed spending is proof that they were right.

“We described how the state budget was built on one-time federal revenues and it would be the taxpayers that are on the hook to cover the shortfalls when those federal dollars run out,” she said. “Now we are dealing with that aftermath.”

Her concerns echoed those of Sen. John Curran, the Senate minority leader, who described Illinois’ policies as creating “a noncitizen welfare state.”

“Our priorities are simple this year: No tax increases, fund education, pay the pension bill, and fix agency dysfunction,” McCombie said.

(Continued from page 2)

who also went outside.

Dunbar testified that he had crossed the street to where the car was because he and another patron wanted to get the car’s license plate number.

He testified that while the patron was taking pictures behind the car, Karl Bomba approached him and the person taking the photos.

It was at that point, Dunbar testified, that he took out his knife and held it in front of himself with his left hand.

Dunbar testified that Bomba threw the patron who was taking the photos into the road.

“I thought he was going to try to kill us or beat us. I wish I wasn’t there at that point,” Dunbar said.

Then, Dunbar testified that Bomba raised his arm with a clenched fist, but Dunbar blocked a punch with his right hand. It was at that point Dunbar stabbed Bomba.

It was reported that an autopsy showed Karl Bomba had a blood alcohol content of .23, which is nearly three times the legal standard for intoxication.

“I respect Judge O’Hallaren Walsh’s decision in this case,” DuPage County State’s Attorney Robert Berlin said in a statement.

He said the first-degree murder charges were filed in good faith.

“This was a challenging case from the beginning,” Berlin said.

Members of the more conservative Freedom Caucus were also critical of the spending plan.

“We cannot support the expansion of new programs and new services when we have a massive budget hole,” Rep. Brad Halbrook, R-Shelbyville, said. “Further, we will absolutely stand against and condemn any proposed new fee or tax increase to fill this gap.”

Halbrook was particularly critical of the governor’s plan to dedicate another $182 million to services and housing programs for migrants bused or flown to the Chicago area from the nation’s southern border, particularly Texas. He did, however, say he supported the proposed elimination of the grocery tax.

Comptroller Mendoza

Comptroller Susana Mendoza called the governor’s plan “austere” and praised the governor’s “targeted approach” to the upcoming fiscal year 2025.

“I think this is one of the best budgets I have ever seen in my 23 years in public service,” Mendoza said. “I have been super, super critical about making sure that we don’t overspend our means but honestly this budget was pretty much flat.”

Last year’s budget allocated $50.4 billion in spending, or about 4.5 percent less than this year’s. But the governor’s proposal also included $1.2 billion in supplemental current-year spending, which would put FY25 about $750 million ahead of the previous year.

Mendoza said spending on programs including early childhood education – set for a $150 million increase – and the Department of Children and Family Services – set for a $76 million increase – are good investments. Mendoza added she supports the move to increase the pension funding goal from 90 percent to 100 percent and extend the state’s timeline for achieving that another three years, to fiscal year 2048.

“I’ve always said we should be at 100 percent funding. I think it’s a wonderful idea,” Mendoza said. “It’s why I believe that we need to pass my rainyday legislation.”

Black Caucus

Members of the Illinois Legislative Black Caucus held their annual response under the Capitol dome, calling the governor’s budget a starting point for negotiations.

Sen. Lakesia Collins, D-Chicago, said she thinks there is much in the proposal that could help Illinois move forward – but she indicated housing people will require a greater effort by the state.

Collins said there’s “a lot of work to do.”

“We need home ownership,” Collins said. “We hear people talking about affordable housing, but it is not affordable. The average family is making $38,000 but living in a community where there’s $500,000 houses down the street – which drives up the market. We know this.”

Senator Robert Peters, D-Chicago, said members of the Black Caucus will continue to “push” and make taking care of unhoused people “more than a conversation.”

The proposed $50 million increase to “Home Illinois” – the governor’s homelessness initiative – would support court-based rental assistance, an emergency and transitional housing program, rapid rehousing, shelter diversion techniques and the conversion of temporary shelters into permanent ones.

The Black Caucus is also interested in several other social issues that could need state appropriations, including health care, violence prevention and K-12 and vocational education. Caucus members said housing and other issues disproportionately affect Black communities, but ultimately impact all

Illinoisans.

Latino Caucus

Members of the Illinois Legislative Latino Caucus said they are in favor of several programs in the proposed budget, such as a new child tax credit. The credit would be available to families with children under the age of three, offering 20 percent of the taxpayer’s state portion of the earned income tax credit. The governor’s office estimated it would cost about $12 million—far below a $300 million credit sought by advocates.

But the caucus called for additional strides in funding health care.

“In order to achieve health equity in Illinois we should make additional investments in health,” Lilian Jiménez, D-Chicago, said. “I am confident that the governor is working to expand health care to all Illinoisians, and we want to make sure we’re working to ensure that Latinos including immi-

grants and refugees are included in that conversation.”

Pritzker’s proposed budget includes $440 million in general revenues for a program providing state-funded health care to low-income noncitizens who would qualify for Medicaid if not for their immigration status. While it’s a $110 million general revenue decrease from last year, advocates were placated by the fact that it included another $189 million in other funding, such as federal reimbursement for emergency services.

Sen. Celina Villanueva, D-Chicago, said the caucus will further advocate for violence prevention programs.

Pritzker’s budget materials highlighted $112 million in cannabis revenues that go partially toward violence prevention, as well as a $30 million state contribution to the Reimagining Public Safety Act, which was previously funded with federal investments.

Worship Services Directory

Lent

St. Timothy Evangelical Lutheran Church

Lent

and Easter Services at 7 p.m.

Services at 7pm

“The Crucial Hours”

Lombard residents among those celebrating annual Montini Father/ Daughter Brunch

Fathers and daughters at Montini Catholic High School recently celebrated their special bond at the school’s annual Father/Daughter Brunch, hosted by the Montini Parent Club. The memorable morning began with Mass, followed by a brunch (all at Drury Lane in Oakbrook Terrace). Shown here,

“The Passion of Jesus in the Gospel of John”

Second Lenten Service March 9, 2022

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

Fourth Lenten Service March 6, 2024

Third Lenten Service March 16, 2022

WHOM DO WE FOLLOW?

John 19:1-16a

Fifth Lenten Service March 13, 2024

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

THREE SCENES ON THE CROSS

Fourth Lenten Service March 23, 2022

John 19:16b-27

Rev. Jonathan Bergemann “I Will Keep the Passover” Good Shepherd, Downers Grove Matthew 26:18

Sixth Lenten Service March 20, 2024

THE CONQUEROR WINS THE VICTORY

Fifth Lenten Service March 30, 2022

John 19:28-42

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

✝ ✝ ✝ ✝ ✝ ✝ ✝ ✝ ✝ ✝

Sixth Lenten Service April 6, 2022

Sunday Worship at 10:15 am

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

Sunday School & Bible Study 9am

Wednesday Service at 7pm

Maundy Thursday Communion 7 p.m., April 14

Ladies Bible Fellowship Mondays at 6:30pm

Good Friday Tenebrae 7 p.m., April 15

Saturday, March 23 Game Night at 4pm

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

Easter Breakfast 8 a.m., April 17

Everyone is Welcome!

Easter Festival 10:15 a.m., April 17 450436

All services are live streamed. SaintTimothy.org

submitted

front row, left to right: Mia Egan (Lombard), Cecily Polanco and Stephanie Hoeflich. Second row: Lucy Pacelli, Skye Houston, Ella Herrmann (Lombard) and Claudia Sipchen.

Back row: Isabella Gatto, Angelica Gatling, Sofia Fisher (Lombard) and Betsy Beirne.

College of DuPage among state community

colleges to receive Rev Up Initiative Grant funding

Grant to support electric vehicle industry

The Illinois Community College Board (ICCB), through its Rev Up EV! Community College Initiative has awarded $9.4 Million to 25 Illinois community colleges to help support the state’s growing Electric Vehicle (EV) industry through job training and technology development programs.

Among the recipients was College of DuPage, which will receive $525,000.

Overall, the funding will promote the development and growth of training programs that prepare individuals for careers in EV technology and EV-specific advanced manufacturing fields, with a priority focus on programs and training in areas that are most in demand by

EV businesses and industry partners.

“Thanks to Governor Pritzker’s leadership, Illinois is at the forefront of change to vehicle electrification and continues to attract new EV industry companies. This funding will allow our community college system to increase the trained workforce and create new technology that will support the growing needs of the industry for years to come,” said ICCB Executive Director Brian Durham.

The competitive grant program is intended to support the Climate and Equitable Jobs Act which established Illinois policy to equitably transition to 100 percent clean energy by 2050.

To support the growth of electric vehicles and critical infrastructure for deployment, maintenance, and support, Illinois needs adequate training programs producing more talent in EV priority program areas.

Grantees are required to partic -

Happy birthday!

On Wednesday, Feb. 7, York Township Supervisor John W. Valle surprised Marielle Giguere with a birthday cake to celebrate her 93rd birthday. She is a Lombard resident and has been a regular at the York Township Senior Nutrition Center for many years. After a rousing chorus of “Happy Birthday to You” led by Valle the cake was cut and shared as dessert at Marielle’s request. Valle said, “We wish Marielle a happy and healthy birthday. She has been with us here at the township for many years and we wanted to show her how much we care.”

ipate in the Illinois Green Economy Network (IGEN) led IL EV Network, an industry collaborative of key stakeholders from industry, higher education (faculty, staff, two-year and four-year), and state agencies to guide the expansion of

light and heavy-duty Electric Vehicle training that satisfies industry demand for high-skill individuals.

“We are excited to work with these outstanding community colleges to discuss critical industry trends, talent needs in high-priority

roles, systemwide strategies, barriers, solutions, and opportunities for collaboration to expand the EV/ related advanced manufacturing workforce in Illinois,” said David Husemoller, executive director of IGEN.

Home

Your best health is our endeavor.

PUZZLE Page

SUDOKU

Fun by the Numbers

Like puzzles? Then you’ll love sudoku. This mind-bending puzzle will have you hooked from the moment you square off, so sharpen your pencil and put your sudoku savvy to the test! Here’s How

It Works: Sudoku puzzles are formatted as a 9x9 grid, broken down into nine 3x3 boxes. To solve a sudoku, the numbers 1 through 9 must fill each row, column and box. Each number can appear only once in each row, column and box. You can figure out the order in which the numbers will appear by using the numeric clues already provided in the boxes. The more numbers you name, the easier it gets to solve the puzzle!

CLUES ACROSS

1. Home of Iowa State University

5. __-fi (slang)

8. Mottled green and yellow fruit

12. Capable of thinking and expressing oneself clearly

14. Sports broadcaster Eagle

15. Midday

16. Kinsmen

18. Cable network

19. Simpleton

20. Brunch beverage

21. Fed

22. European capital

23. Native inhabitants

26. Mechanical device

30. Rare geese native to Hawaii

31. Bedroom furnishing

32. The products of human creativity

33. Mass transit option

34. Made a mistake

39. Sacred sound symbol

42. Large N. American reindeer

44. Dull and flat

46. Partner to huffing

47. Written works

49. Monetary unit of Serbia

50. Midway between east and southeast

51. Peninsula of southwestern Asia

56. Widely used multiuser OS

57. Aggressive dog

58. Varnished

59. Hindu queen

60. Time units, abbr.

61. Farm animals

62. Capital of Latvia

63. Where golfers begin

64. Takes to civil court

CLUES DOWN

1. One who graduated

2. An inspired holy person

3. Electronic countercountermeasures

4. A place to store things

5.

Interested in

Remove salt 17.

of sword 24. Naturally occurring solid material

25. Gets involved without being invited

champ

37. Long period of time

38. Moved earth

40. Central Netherlands city

41. Take stock of

42. Central processing unit

43. Distinctive qualities one generates

44. Getting stuck

45. Loss of bodily movements

47. Veranda

48. Abrupt

49. What cats do

52. Expresses pleasure

53. Type of cheese

54. Professional STEM organization

55. Automatic data processing systems

Sports

Broncos march to sectional championship

Montini advances to Class 3A super-sectional in River Forest

The Montini Catholic girls basketball team continued its post-season run by winning the title at last week’s IHSA Class 3A Glenbard South Sectional. The Broncos defeated St. Francis 52-38 in a sectional semifinal contest on Feb. 20. Two days later, Montini overpowered Trinity 69-40 in the sectional final.

The Broncos improved their overall season record to 28-7 with their win in the Feb. 22 sectional final.

Montini began its playoff run by posting two decisive regional victories on its home court. The Broncos then advanced to the Glenbard South Sectional in Glen Ellyn.

Montini was the No. 1 seed in the 16-team Glenbard South Sectional. Winning the sectional title propelled the Broncos to this week’s super-sectional at Concordia University in River Forest. Montini faced Grayslake Central in the super-sectional on Feb. 26. The winner earned a trip to Normal to play in the IHSA Class 3A state semifinals. The two Class 3A semifinals will be played this Friday. The Class 3A state-championship game will take place this Saturday.

Grayslake Central was the No. 1 seed in the 18-team Antioch Sectional. Montini and Grayslake Central did not face any common opponents during the regular season.

Montini was familiar with both of its opponents at the Glenbard South Sectional. The Broncos beat St. Francis 56-34 during a regular-season meeting on the Spartans’ home court in Wheaton on Dec. 15. Montini earned a pair of regular-season wins over Trinity in Girls Catholic Athletic Conference (GCAC) Red Division action. Montini beat the Blazers 6942 in River Forest on Dec. 13. The Broncos delivered another 27-point win over Trinity on Jan. 30, when they pounded the Blazers 72-45 in Lombard.

Montini held a 14-4 lead over St. Francis after one quarter of last week’s sectional semifinal in Glen Ellyn. The Broncos led the Spartans 24-11 at halftime and 38-25 at the end of the third quarter. St. Francis made a 3-point shot to cut Montini’s lead to 46-36 with about 2:45 to play. The Broncos then scored six straight points to raise their lead to 52-36 with a little more than one minute remaining.

Junior Nikki Kerstein scored a team-leading 16 points for the Broncos in their post-season win over the Spartans. Kerstein made two 3-point shots during the first quarter. She added another 3-point basket in the second quarter.

Kerstein made five of six free throws during the game. She sank all four of her attempts from the foul line in the second half.

Montini senior Victoria Matulevicius provided 11 points in last week’s win over St. Francis. She scored seven of those points during the third

quarter.

Junior Shea Carver scored 10 points for the Broncos in the sectional semifinal. Senior Alyssa Epps added seven points, while junior Peyton Farrell contributed six points. Junior Audrey Kinney supplied two points with a layup in the closing seconds of the first quarter.

Trinity, which was backed by a boisterous student section, put up a spirited fight in the first half of last week’s sectional final at Glenbard South. The Broncos built an 18-8 lead by the end of the first quarter.

Montini extended its lead to 37-21 by halftime. The Broncos reeled off 11 straight points at the start of the third quarter to boost their lead to 48-21. Montini owned a 54-27 lead at the end of the third quarter.

“They [the Blazers] play hard, so we knew they would be coming for us,” said Montini coach Shannon

Montini Catholic’s girls basketball team won the championship at last week’s IHSA Class 3A Glenbard South Sectional. The Broncos beat St. Francis 52-38 in a sectional semifinal on Feb. 20. Two days later, Montini defeated Trinity 69-40 in the sectional final in Glen Ellyn. The Broncos raised their overall season record to 28-7 with their Feb. 22 victory over Trinity. Montini advanced to this week’s super-sectional at Concordia University in River Forest. The Broncos faced Grayslake Central in the super-sectional on Monday, Feb. 26. The winner earned a berth in this week’s IHSA Class 3A state semifinals in Normal. One photo from the sectional final at Glenbard South shows Montini senior Victoria Matulevicius (No. 5 - top left), who scored 24 points in the game. She is pictured while firing and making a 3-point shot during the third quarter. Another photo from the sectional final shows junior Nikki Kerstein (No. 3 - left), who provided 23 points for the Broncos.

Spanos after the Broncos’ victory in the sectional final. “Playoff basketball is very different. We knew that tonight’s tone of the game was going to be competitive. It was a great win for our girls.”

Matulevicius and Kerstein formed a potent scoring duo in the sectional final. Matulevicius scored 24 points in the victory, while Kerstein supplied 23 points. Both Broncos made 10 field goals. Matulevicius made a pair of 3-point shots during the third quarter. She connected on two of three free-throw attempts. Kerstein,

who sank one shot from 3-point range in the third quarter, made both of her shots from the free-throw line.

“We were pretty prepared for anything they [the Blazers] threw out,” said Matulevicius after the Broncos collected their championship plaque at the sectional. “We came out confident, and that’s all that really mattered. No matter what they threw at us, we were ready to handle it.”

This is Kerstein’s first season as a Bronco. It didn’t take long for her to form a solid bond with Matulevicius, who has been a starter with Montini’s

varsity unit since her freshman year.

“I think we have pretty good chemistry,” said Kerstein of her connection with Matulevicius. “I feel like we’ve played together for years. Once we started up the season, we just immediately clicked. We knew we had something there.”

Epps provided nine points for Montini in the sectional final. Carver added seven points. Junior Lily Spanos contributed four points with a pair of third-quarter field goals. Junior Lauren Mellish tallied two points with a fourth-quarter basket.

Chris Fox photos Rock Valley Publishing

Rams close out season with loss to Wheaton North Falcons overpower Glenbard East in regional semifinal

The Glenbard East boys basketball team’s 2023-24 season ended with a 75-45 loss to Wheaton North in a semifinal game at the IHSA Class 4A Glenbard North Regional.

The Rams finished their season with an overall record of 14-18. They posted a 12-6 record in Upstate Eight Conference play.

Glenbard East trailed Wheaton North 14-8 after one quarter of the Feb. 21 matchup, which served as the post-season opener for both teams.

The Falcons extended their lead to 37-17 by halftime. Wheaton North owned a 52-29 lead at the end of the third quarter.

Glenbard East junior Mateo Villalvazo provided a highlight for his team by sinking a 3-point shot from behind the half-court line to close out the third quarter.

Villalvazo, who drained another 3-point attempt during the fourth quarter, scored 10 points in the Rams’ season-ending loss to Wheaton North. Sophomore Danny Snyder, who made a pair of 3-point shots in

the first quarter, also scored 10 points for Glenbard East. Senior Ari Pierson provided six points, while senior Aleks Jajic and sophomore Norman Loechel contributed five points each. Sophomore Michael Nee supplied four points. Junior Devin Kraft and junior Ryan Frano added three and two points, respectively.

Wheaton North faced Glenbard North in Friday’s regional final in Carol Stream. Glenbard North defeated the Falcons 51-46 to win the regional title on its home court. The Panthers advanced to this week’s Addison Trail Sectional. Glenbard North faced Lake Park in one sectional semifinal. York battled Batavia in the other sectional semifinal in Addison. The sectional final takes place this Friday, March 1.

Lake Park is the No. 1 seed in the Addison Trail Sectional. York is the No. 2 seed. Batavia is the No. 3 seed, while Glenbard North is the No. 4 seed. Wheaton North was the No. 5 seed in the sectional. Glenbard East was the No. 12 seed.

Broncos win regional title in dramatic fashion

Petersen’s late 3-point shot lifts Montini to thrilling victory in hostile territory

The Montini Catholic boys basketball team won an IHSA Class 2A regional championship on Friday evening. The Broncos defeated Northridge Prep of Niles 46-43 in Friday’s regional final on Northridge Prep’s home court.

Montini, which has now won regional titles in three consecutive seasons, raised its overall season record to 15-18 with Friday’s victory. The Broncos advanced to this week’s Class 2A Timothy Christian Sectional in Elmhurst. Earlier this week, Montini faced Chicago’s Christ the King in a sectional semifinal. The winner will meet Timothy Christian or Chicago’s Latin School in this Friday’s sectional final.

Montini faced Christ the King in a holiday tournament contest at Westmont High School on Dec. 26. Christ

the King defeated the Broncos 70-59 in that matchup.

Montini began post-season action with a dominant 77-30 win over Chicago Math and Science Academy on Feb. 21.

Senior Danny Petersen of the Broncos drained two critical 3-point shots in the last 90 seconds of Friday’s regional final in Niles.

Montini trailed the Knights 43-42 with 14.5 seconds to play. Montini inbounded the ball under Northridge Prep’s basket and drove down the court. Junior Maxwell Bell passed the ball to Petersen, who launched and made a corner 3-point shot to give the Broncos a 45-43 lead with 4.4 seconds to play.

Petersen scored 12 points in Friday’s victory. Junior Drew Church added 10 points for the Broncos.

Shymkiv battles to third-place finish at IHSA girls state meet

Glenbard East sophomore Nadiia

Shymkiv earned a third-place finish in the 105-pound weight class of the IHSA girls individual state wrestling meet, which took place on Friday and Saturday at Grossinger Motors Arena in Bloomington.

Shymkiv won four of five matches at the state meet. She opened the event with an 11-4 victory in her first-round match. Shymkiv then delivered a 9-0 win in the quarterfinal round. Shymkiv suffered her first loss of the season—a 9-3 decision— in a semifinal match. She bounced back from that loss to post an 8-1 win in the consolation round.

Shymkiv completed the state meet

Smith scores 28 points for Addison Trail in its playoff loss to Glenbard North

Addison Trail concluded its season with a 63-47 loss to Glenbard North in a regional semifinal contest in Carol Stream on Feb. 21. The game between the Blazers and Panthers took place just before the evening’s other regional semifinal between Wheaton North and Glenbard East.

Glenbard North led the Blazers 20-12 after one quarter and 40-23 at halftime. The Panthers led Addison Trail 52-34 at the end of the third quarter.

Junior Luke Smith scored 28 points for the Blazers in their season-ending loss to Glenbard North. Smith made 11 field goals, including three shots from 3-point range. He converted three of four attempts from the free-throw line.

Addison Trail was seeded No. 14 in its 18-team sectional.

by pinning her opponent in the second period of the third-place match.

Shymkiv ended the season with a 22-1 record.

Bell places sixth in the 100-pound level

Montini Catholic junior Kat Bell secured a sixth-place finish in the state meet’s 100-pound weight class.

Bell delivered a 20-9 victory in her first match in Bloomington. She pinned her opponent in the third period of a quarterfinal contest.

Bell lost in the semifinal round. She then completed the tournament with a loss in the fifth-place match.

Bell finished the season with a record of 25-9.

Chris Fox photos Rock Valley Publishing Glenbard East’s boys basketball team concluded its season with a 75-45 loss to Wheaton North in a semifinal game at the IHSA Class 4A Glenbard North Regional on Feb. 21. The Rams finished their season with an overall record of 14-18. Junior Mateo Villalvazo (No. 2 - above) scored 10 points for Glenbard East in last week’s loss to the Falcons. Senior Ari Pierson (No. 5 - top right) scored six points for the Rams, while senior Aleks Jajic (No. 12 - bottom right) provided five points. Glenbard North defeated Wheaton North 51-46 in Friday’s regional final.

Warriors’ season ends with loss to Lake Park

Willowbrook crushes West Chicago in regional quarterfinal before falling to Lancers

The Willowbrook boys basketball team finished its season with a 71-32 loss to Lake Park in an IHSA Class 4A regional semifinal in Villa Park on Feb. 21.

The Warriors completed their season with an overall record of 10-23.

Two days before facing Lake Park, Willowbrook kicked off post-season play at its own regional with a 75-44 victory over West Chicago in a quarterfinal game.

The Warriors led West Chicago 13-8 after one quarter of the Feb. 19 contest in Villa Park. Willowbrook led the Wildcats 32-22 at halftime. The Warriors’ lead grew to 56-34 by the end of the third quarter.

Sophomore Otis Powell scored 21 points and grabbed 12 rebounds for Willowbrook in last week’s win over West Chicago. Senior Noah Boyd added 17 points for the Warriors. Sophomore Jaylen Griffin, who made a 3-point shot from near the half-court line at the end of the first half, contributed 11 points. Senior Andrew Ciesinski supplied 10 points and 15 rebounds. Junior Filip Palutkiewicz provided seven points.

Willowbrook was the Addison Trail Sectional’s No. 15 seed. West Chicago was the sectional’s No. 17 seed. Lake Park is the 18-team sectional’s No. 1 seed.

Lake Park led the Warriors 18-8 after one quarter of the Feb. 21 regional semifinal. The Lancers extended their lead to 40-18 by halftime. Lake Park delivered a 10-0 run to start the third quarter and raise its lead to 50-18. The Lancers owned a 67-24 lead at the end of the third quarter.

Boyd scored 15 points for the Warriors in their season-ending loss. Griffin and Palutkiewicz contributed six and four points, respectively.

Wheaton Warrenville South, the Addison Trail Sectional’s No. 9 seed, edged Geneva 61-59 in the other regional semifinal at Willowbrook on Feb. 21. Geneva was the sectional’s No. 8 seed.

Lake Park earned a 41-37 victory over Wheaton Warrenville South in Friday’s regional final in Villa Park. The Lancers advanced to this week’s sectional in Addison. Lake Park faced Glenbard North in a sectional semifinal earlier this week. The winner of that game will meet either York or Batavia in this Friday’s sectional final.

Broncos claim the second-place trophy at Class 2A dual-team state meet

The Montini Catholic wrestling team completed its season by winning the second-place trophy at the IHSA Class 2A dual-team state tournament, which ended on Saturday at Grossinger Motors Arena in Bloomington.

The Broncos faced Washington in Saturday’s Class 2A statechampionship matchup. Washington edged Montini 30-28 to win the state title.

Montini finished its season with a dual-meet record of 27-3.

The Broncos earned a berth in the Class 2A state quarterfinals in Bloomington with their thrilling 32-29 victory over IC Catholic Prep at the Wauconda Sectional on Feb. 20.

Montini defeated Rochelle 56-22 in Friday’s quarterfinal match in Bloomington. The Broncos beat Glenwood High School 46-22 in Saturday’s semifinal round.

The Broncos who earned victories in Saturday’s state-championship dual against Washington included freshman Allen Woo, who pinned his opponent in the 106-pound match; freshman Mikey Malizzio, who posted a 10-3 win in the 113-pound contest; junior Josh Vazquez, who prevailed 3-1 in the 126-pound battle; sophomore Kam Luif, who scored a 7-4 win in the 132-pound match; senior David Mayora, who delivered a 26-11 victory in the 150-pound level; senior Harrison Konder—a 15-0 winner in the 157-pound match; and junior Jaxon Lane, who posted a 4-1 win in the 215-pound contest.

Willowbrook’s boys basketball

week. The Warriors defeated West Chicago 75-44

Villa Park

Feb. 19. Willowbrook’s season ended with a 71-32 loss to Lake Park in a regional semifinal on Feb. 21. Willowbrook completed its season with an overall record of 10-23. Lake Park beat Wheaton Warrenville South 41-37 in Friday’s regional final. Lake Park advanced to this week’s Addison Trail Sectional. One photo from the Warriors’ regional quarterfinal against West Chicago shows senior Noah Boyd (No. 25 - above) preparing to launch and make a 3-point shot in the fourth quarter. Boyd scored 17 points in Willowbrook’s victory over the Wildcats. Another photo from the game shows senior Andrew Ciesinski (No. 33 - top left) of the Warriors, who provided 10 points and 15 rebounds. One more photo from last week’s regional quarterfinal shows Willowbrook junior Filip Palutkiewicz (No. 23 - left), who contributed seven points.

Program helps students prepare for medical school, health care careers

National University of Health Sciences, one of the nation’s premier institutions for health science education, has launched a one-year master’s program for students who wish to pursue highly-in-demand careers in healthcare.

The on-campus Master of Science in Medical Science (MSMS) program, in partnership with Tiber Health, will help prepare students for medical school and other medical professional programs like chiropractic, naturopathic, pharmacy, optometry, and physician’s assistant, or for a career in public health or clinical research.

This additional academic training is designed to expand access to quality healthcare education programs by helping students increase their medical knowledge and improve performance on the USMLE and MCAT Exams.

Access to medical school training is becoming increasingly important as the U.S. health care industry faces a growing doctor shortage, particularly in rural areas.

Although 20 percent of Americans live in rural communities, just 11 percent of physicians practice in these areas, according to the Association of the American Medical Col-

leges (AAMC).

The profession also fails to reflect the increasingly diverse U.S. population. According to the AAMC, Black and Hispanic Americans make up nearly one-third of the U.S. population but only make up 10 percent of doctors and 12 percent of medical school students. Today, more than 83 percent of the MSMS student body

across all Tiber partner universities come from underrepresented backgrounds.

Students in National University of Health Sciences’ MSMS program will attend classes on-campus in a medical school environment among other students who are earning their master’s and doctorate degrees in various health care fields.

LEGAL NOTICES

NOTICE

CERTIFICATE NO. 79354 was filed in the office of the County Clerk of DuPage County on FEBRUARY 20, 2024, wherein the business firm of SHELLI CHIQUE BOUTIQUE, 473 N. PIONEER DRIVE, ADDISON, IL 60101 was registered; that the true or real name or names of the person or persons owning the business, with their respective post office address(es), is/are as follows:

Michele J. Davenport, 473 N. Pioneer Drive, Addison, IL 60101.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand and Official Seal at my office in Wheaton, Illinois, this 20TH day of FEBRUARY, A.D. 2024.

Jean Kaczmarek

DuPage County Clerk

Chris Fox photos Rock Valley Publishing

team opened the IHSA Class 4A post-season by hosting a regional last

in a regional quarterfinal in

on

It’s National Children’s Dental Health Month.

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

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

His office didn’t give further details, but when a one-year reprieve from the tax was passed in 2022, the state estimated it would save Illinois shoppers about $400 million. Because local governments receive those tax revenues, the state reimbursed them over two fiscal years. But neither the governor nor any budget documents outlined such a plan Wednesday.

This year’s budget proposal leaves in place a statutory inflationary increase to the state’s standard deduction for the 2024 tax year but limits its increase. According to budget documents, the standard deduction—a specific dollar amount used to reduce a taxpayer’s adjusted gross income—will be capped at $2,550 as proposed by the governor. Capping the inflationary growth at one year instead of two would create $93 million in revenue, according to budget documents.

Republicans generally criticized the budget for relying on the revenue proposals which are not yet contained in law, criticizing the governor

for taxing businesses to provide the revenues for his new spending proposals.

Education, human services funding

As he has done in previous years, Pritzker called for sizeable increases in education funding. But those proposed increases are substantially smaller than many advocates had hoped.

“Every single year I have been governor, we have increased our investments in education, because a quality education is the foundation of a good life and the cornerstone of a strong society,” Pritzker said.

For Pre-K-12 education, Pritzker proposed a roughly $450 million increase, or about 4.3 percent above current year spending. That’s about $200 million less than the Illinois State Board of Education had requested.

Included in Pritzker ’s plan is a $350 million increase in Evidence-Based Funding, a program enacted in 2017 that adds new state

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money each year to the funding formula, focusing that money on the districts that need it most.

His plan also includes an additional $150 million to fund the second year of his “Smart Start Illinois” initiative to expand access to early childhood education. That program helped add more than 5,800 preschool seats in Illinois in its first year, with a goal of increasing by 20,000 over four years.

The budget proposal also includes an additional $10 million for career and technical education programs, as well as $13 million to fund a new state agency for early childhood department.

Noticeably absent from his proposal, however, is the $35 million that ISBE had requested for educational programs that target new migrant students and their families who have been arriving in Illinois.

For higher education, Pritzker ’s proposed budget calls for a 2 percent increase, or $30.6 million, in operating expenses for public universities and community colleges, significantly less than the 5 percent increase the

Illinois Board of Higher Education had requested.

Pritzker also proposed a $10 million increase in the Monetary Award Program, or MAP grants, the state’s basic needs-based financial aid program. That would bring the total amount available under that program to $711 million. IBHE had requested a $50 million increase.

Funding for homeless prevention programs would grow to $250 million under the plan, a $50 million increase. Funding for the state’s Department of Children and Family Services is slated to increase by $76 million, a sum that will allow the department hire an additional 392 positions aimed at reducing caseloads.

Migrant, noncitizen programs

Pritzker had previously said he would ask lawmakers to dedicate $182 million to address the influx of migrants from border states, particularly Texas. That sum was included in his proposal.

“I won’t pretend any of this is easy, but it would be irresponsible to do anything but come here, lay out the scope of the challenge, tell you what I think we need to do, and then work with you to make it happen,” Pritzker said of the state’s migrant response.

The Healthy Illinois Coalition, a group of health care and immigrant advocates, issued a statement applauding the funding proposal.

“We recognize the real fiscal challenges facing the state, but urge both the General Assembly and the governor to pass a FY25 budget that fully funds the existing HBIA and HBIS programs as they currently exist in statute, with no caps and no co-pays,” Healthy Illinois Campaign Director Tovia Siegel said in a statement.

The programs remain a contention for Republicans including Senate Minority Leader John Curran, of Downers Grove, who referred to Pritzker’s policies as making Illinois a “noncitizen welfare state.”

In December, the state’s Department of Healthcare and Family Services, which oversees the programs, projected their total cost for the current year—including revenues outside of the general revenue fund—at about $773 million. That estimate, however, had been on a general downward trajectory over several months.

Pension changes

The governor ’s office is proposing to cut $110 million in general revenue funding for a pair of health care programs for noncitizens that became a lightning rod last year amid quickly rising costs. But when combined with other funding sources, including a $100 million federal match for emergency services, the total grows to $629 million, outpacing last year’s general revenue allocation of $550 million.

The Health Benefits for Immigrant Seniors and Adults programs provide state-funded health care to low-income noncitizens who are in Illinois without legal permission or who have green cards and are on a waiting period. That group is separate from many of the migrants being flown or bused to Illinois from Texas. Individuals seeking asylum in the U.S. more likely qualify for other preexisting state or federal benefits.

Amid controversy last year as cost estimates continued to rise, lawmakers allocated $550 million in general revenue to the programs and gave Pritzker the authority to cap enrollment and put other cost-saving measures in place, including copays.

The spending plan includes fully funding the state’s $10.1 billion required pension payment in the upcoming fiscal year. But the governor also proposed altering the state’s socalled “pension ramp” in a way his administration hopes will be viewed positively by credit ratings agencies.

The proposal includes increasing the target funding percentage for pension funds to 100 percent, up from 90 percent, while adding another three years for the ramp to reach that point. The fully funded goal would be moved to fiscal year 2048, from FY 2045.

It would also call for increasing pension payments in 2030 and 2033 when outstanding general obligation debts are retired.

Eric Kim, head of state government ratings at Fitch Ratings, issued a statement Feb. 21 noting the plan “could help reduce risks associated with the state’s pension obligations and improve credit quality.”

“Ultimately, any rating implications will be based on Fitch’s review of the enacted budget and any related legislation, which could look materially different than the Governor’s proposals,” he said in the statement.

Painting

AL’S PAINTING SERVICE

• Interior & Exterior Painting

• Power Washing Anything

The Home Repair & Improvement Company No job is too small!

Free Estimates ~ Call 630-853-3059

448785

Vans, Mini Vans

FOR SALE: 2006 E250 FORD CARGO VAN, $3,000 or best offer and 2002 CHEVY ASTRO VAN, $4,000 or best offer. Call Al at 630-853-3059

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

PART TIME DRIVER WANTED

York Township is hiring a part-time driver position at $14.00 per hour.

Hours are Monday through Friday 8:00 a.m. until 3:00 p.m.

Responsibilities include, but are not limited to, driving vehicles transporting seniors participating in medical appointments, recreational or social service programs, such as community center programs, shopping trips, library within York Township boundaries.

Applicants that are interested can apply in person at: York Township, 1502 S. Meyers Road, Lombard, Illinois 60148.

451568

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE EIGHTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT

DU PAGE COUNTY, ILLINOIS

DOMESTIC RELATIONS PUBLICATION

IN RE THE MARRIAGE OF VICKIE DEMETRIOUS SIMMONS

AKINWUNMI, Petitioner vs. SEGUN AKINWUNMI, Respondent

Case Number: 2023DN000817

The requisite affidavit for publication having been filed, NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN TO YOU, SEGUN AKINWUNMI, respondent, that a petition has been filed in the Eighteenth Judicial Circuit Court of DuPage County, Illinois, by the petitioner against you for a DISSOLUTION OF MARRIAGE and other relief; that summons duly issued against you as provided by law, and such petition is still pending.

NOW THEREFORE, unless you SEGUN AKINWUNMI, respondent, file your answer to the Petition or otherwise make your appearance therein, in the office of the Clerk of the Eighteenth Judicial Circuit Court at the Judicial Center, 505 N. County Farm Road, Wheaton, IL on or before 4/15/2024, a default may be entered against you at any time after that date and a JUDGMENT OF DISSOLUTION OF MARRIAGE entered against you in accordance with the prayer of said petition.

Date: 2/5/2024

Vickie Demetrious Simmons Akinwunmi 922 College Blvd Addison, IL 60101

CANDICE ADAMS

Clerk of the Circuit Court

8085-939674

(Published in The Lombardian Feb. 15, 22 & 29, 2024) 450922

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE EIGHTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT DU PAGE COUNTY, ILLINOIS

PUBLICATION NOTICE OF COURT DATE FOR REQUEST FOR NAME CHANGE (ADULT NAME CHANGE)

CURRENT LEGAL NAME: RONALDO ANTOLIN CABANADA

Case Number: 2024 MR 64

My current name is: RONALDO ANTOLIN CABANADA. I wish my name to be changed to: RONALD ANTOLIN CABANADA. The court date for the Request I filed is scheduled on: April 11, 2024 at 9:00 a.m. at 505 N. County Farm Road, Wheaton, IL, DuPage County, in Courtroom #2007.

/s/ Ronaldo Antolin Cabanada

Dated: 2/6/2024

Candice Adams Clerk of the Circuit Court 8085-939705

(Published in The Lombardian Feb. 15, 22 & 29, 2024) 450938

NOTICE

CERTIFICATE NO. 79345 was filed in the office of the County Clerk of DuPage County on FEBRUARY 7, 2024, wherein the business firm of ABLE ALCHEMY, 810 HIGHVIEW AVENUE, GLEN ELLYN, IL 60137 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:

Courtney O’Keeffe, 810 Highview Avenue, Glen Ellyn, IL 60137.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand and Official Seal at my office in Wheaton, Illinois, this 7TH day of FEBRUARY, A.D. 2024.

Jean Kaczmarek

DuPage County Clerk

(Published in The Lombardian Feb. 15, 22 & 29, 2024) 450939

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE EIGHTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT DU PAGE COUNTY, ILLINOIS

PUBLICATION NOTICE OF COURT

DATE FOR REQUEST FOR NAME CHANGE (ADULT NAME CHANGE)

CURRENT LEGAL NAME: CARLOS MANUEL CAYETANO

Case Number: 2024MR000088

My current name is: CARLOS MANUEL CAYETANO. I wish my name to be changed to: CARLOS MANUEL CAYETANO LEON. The court date for the Request I filed is scheduled on: April 1, 2024 at 9:00 a.m. at 505 N. County Farm Road, Wheaton, IL, DuPage County, in Courtroom #2005.

/s/ Carlos Cayetano

Dated: 2/7/2024

Candice Adams Clerk of the Circuit Court 8085-939745

(Published in The Lombardian Feb. 15, 22 & 29, 2024) 450988

NOTICE

CERTIFICATE NO. 79346 was filed in the office of the County Clerk of DuPage County on FEBRUARY 8, 2024, wherein the business firm of MHAli Consulting, 1263 HOBSON OAKS DRIVE, NAPERVILLE, IL 60540 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:

Moinuddin H. Ali, 1263 Hobson Oaks Drive, Naperville, IL 60540.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand and Official Seal at my office in Wheaton, Illinois, this 8TH day of FEBRUARY, A.D. 2024.

Jean Kaczmarek

DuPage County Clerk (Published in The Lombardian Feb. 15, 22 & 29, 2024) 451049

NOTICE

CERTIFICATE NO. 79355 was filed in the office of the County Clerk of DuPage County on FEBRUARY 20, 2024, wherein the business firm LITTLE SPROUTS LITERACY, 319 S. NAPERVILLE RD. STE. 101, WHEATON, IL 60187 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:

Jennifer Collander, 918 Maryknolll Cir., Glen Ellyn, IL 60137.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand and Official Seal at my office in Wheaton, Illinois, this 20TH day of FEBRUARY, A.D. 2024.

Jean Kaczmarek

DuPage County Clerk (Published in The Lombardian Feb. 29, March 7 & 14, 2024) 451548

NOTICE CERTIFICATE NO. 79356 was filed in the office of the County Clerk of DuPage County on FEBRUARY 20, 2024, wherein the business firm of JENNIFER COLLANDER FINE ART, 918 MARYKNOLL CIR., GLEN ELLYN, IL 60137 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: Jennifer Collander, 918 Maryknolll Cir., Glen Ellyn, IL 60137.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand and Official Seal at my office in Wheaton, Illinois, this 20TH day of FEBRUARY, A.D. 2024.

Jean Kaczmarek

DuPage County Clerk (Published in The Lombardian Feb. 29, March 7 & 14, 2024) 451549

NOTICE CERTIFICATE NO. 79340 was filed in the office of the County Clerk of DuPage County on FEBRUARY 5, 2024, wherein the business firm of RAIMBAULT ESTATE SALES, 659 E. PRAIRIE AVE., LOMBARD, IL 60148 was registered; that the true or real name or names of the person or persons owning the business, with their respective post office address(es), is/are as follows: Alissa Raimbault, 659 E. Prairie Ave., Lombard, IL 60148.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand and Official Seal at my office in Wheaton, Illinois, this 5TH day of FEBRUARY, A.D. 2024.

Jean Kaczmarek

DuPage County Clerk (Published in The Lombardian Feb. 15, 29 & March 7, 2024) 451086

WATCH ALL GAMES HERE!

SUNDAYS

50¢ Boneless Wings LIMIT 12 (with side purchase)

$5 Sausage & Peppers ‘Wich (with side purchase)

$9 Pasta Marinara (add $2 for Vodka, Meat, Carbonara or Alfredo)

$10 Bacon Wrapped Pickle Spears

$10 Vegan Pasta Marinara

$4 Mimosa - $6 Tito’s Bloody Mary

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

$17 Bottles of Woodbridge House Wine

H H H

TUESDAYS

$2 Beef/Pulled Pork Taco

$3 Chicken - Fish - Pork Belly - Steak

$4 Vegan Tacos - Impossible Meat - Chicken - Pork

$4 Cilantro Lime Rice or Seasoned Black Beans

$10 BACON Nachos

$4 Modelo Draft

$6 Don Julio Margaritas

$7 Don Julio Frozen Margaritas

$20 Any Mexican Beer Buckets

WEDNESDAYS

Half Price Bottles of Wine $25 or More FREE Bar Bingo/Kids eat free

10 and Under - Ask server for more details

$5 Gourmet Cheeseburger (with side purchase)

$10 BACON Wrapped Mushrooms

$8 Impossible Burger (with side purchase)

$5 U Call Its $8 and Under Wine/Liquor ONLY

Sebastianshouse.com

801 E. Roosevelt Rd., Lombard (630) 376-6947

8900 Fairview Ave., Brookfield

THURSDAYS

1/2 Off any $20 or More Bourbon, Scotch or Whiskey

$5 Pulled Pork ‘Wich (with side purchase)

$10 BACON Wrapped Mozzarella Sticks

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

$4 Drafts $8 and Under

H H H

FRIDAYS

$5 Pepper & Egg ‘Wich (with side purchase)

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

$10 Bacon Stuffed Avocado

$8 Vegan Burrito (with side purchase)

$5 Stella Draft

$5 Crown or Titos

$25 High Noon Buckets

SATURDAYS/UFC

$5 1/2 Lb BLT ‘Wich (with side purchase)

$10 BACON Croquettes

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

$5 Sam Seasonal Draft

$5 Proper Twelve Shot

$5 Absolut or Jameson

$22 Modelo Buckets

CLOSED - MONDAYS

4th Annual Chili Cook Off

Sunday, March 3 in Lombard

$10 Entry Fee

1st Place $250

2nd Place $150

3rd Place $100

People’s Choice (Bring your friends!) May the Best Chili Win!

36 Drafts H 350 Bourbons, Scotches & Whiskeys

HAPPY HOUR

Tuesday-Friday 3pm-6pm

99¢ Chicken Tenders ~ SLIDERS ~

$2 Grilled Chicken - Meatball - Pulled Pork

$3 Burger - Fish - Pork Belly

$4 Vegan Chicken or Impossible Slider

$5 Italian Beef ‘Wich

$8 Medium Cheese Pizza - $3 Full Toppings

$12 XL Cheese Pizza - $4 Full Toppings

$4 Well Gin, Rum, Tequila, Vodka & Whiskey

$4 House Wine (Woodbridge)

$5 Blue Moon Drafts

$15 Domestic Buckets - $20 Import Buckets

$8 Jefferson Old Fashioned

$5 Jefferson 1.25 oz. Pour

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