BI031424

Independent

Bensenville Park District names Nicole Chesak superintendent of recreation

The Bensenville Park District named Nicole Chesak, CPRP, life coach, as the new superintendent of recreation. Chesak was hired by the park district as recreation supervisor in December 2023.

With an extensive background in managing diverse recreational programs and facilities, Chesak brings a wealth of experience and a proven track record of success to her new role.

“Nicole Chesak’s extensive resume reflects her commitment to excellence in the field of parks and recreation,” said Bensenville Park District executive director Joe Vallez. “We welcome her as a valuable addition to our leadership team, confident in her ability to contribute to the district’s continued success.”

Chesak, a former women’s basketball standout, earned her bachelor’s degree from the University of St. Francis.

She is a Certified Parks and Recreation Professional (CPRP) and has been an active member of the Illinois Park and Recreation Association (IPRA) since January 2001. She has held various leadership positions within the organization, including serving as the IPRA Annual Conference Workshop Chair and the IPRA Recreation Section Director.

In 2006, Chesak was recognized with the IPRA Young Professional of the Year Award.

Chesak’s career highlights include her role as the director of the White Deer Run Golf Club, where she successfully managed all aspects of the club’s operations, in -

SUBMITTED PHOTO Bensenville Independent Nicole Chesak

cluding activities, guest relations and community engagement. Her accomplishments at the club include coordinating policies, developing operating procedures and overseeing budget implementation.

In her position as the director of athletics at the Wheaton Park District, Chesak demonstrated exceptional leadership skills by restructuring the department and managing a $5.9 million budget. Her achievements include directing the Wings Spring Classic Tournament with 260 teams and securing significant annual sponsorships for athletic programs.

She also played a pivotal role in the $500,000 renovation of the athletic complex.

As the superintendent of recreation at Hoffman Estates Park District, Chesak managed an $8 million recreation department budget, overseeing full-time and seasonal staff.

She increased field rentals by 30 percent, implemented an anti-bul -

See CHESAK, Page 3

A new friend

SUBMITTED PHOTO Bensenville Independent

This guest from Synapse House made a new friend when he visited Tail Gate for Dogs on Wednesday, Feb. 21. Synapse House is an agency for persons affected by brain injury or stroke. See story and another photo on page 3.

Democratic, Republican primary candidates, referenda

Editor’s note: The following is a list of Democratic and Republican candidates who are in primary races

March 19 in the communities of Addison, Bensenville, Elmhurst, Lombard, Villa Park, Oakbrook Terrace and Wood Dale. This list includes contested races only, as well as referenda.

Democrat

President of the United States (Vote for 1)

Joseph R. Biden Jr.

Marianne Williamson

Frank “Frankie” Lozada

Third Congressional District Delegates (Vote for not more than 6)

Gilbert “Gil” Villegas (Biden)

Eva-Dina Delgado (Biden)

Erik Martinez (Biden)

Lilian Jimenez (Biden)

Oswaldo Alvarez (Biden)

Jackie Williamson (Biden)

Augusto R. Gonzalez (Williamson)

Fourth Congressional District Congressman (Vote for 1)

Jesus “Chuy” Garcia

Raymond A. Lopez

Delegates (Vote for not more than 5)

Theresa Mah (Biden)

Javier Loera Cervantes (Biden)

Norma Hernandez (Biden)

Aaron M. Ortiz (Biden)

Beth Zavala (Biden)

Sixth Congressional District Congressman (Vote for 1)

Sean Casten

Charles M. Hughes

Mahnoor Ahmad

Delegates (Vote for no more than 6)

Deb Conroy (Biden)

Bill Cunningham (Biden)

Kelly Burke (Biden)

Tim Moriarty (Biden)

Sonia Desai Bhagwakar (Biden)

Christopher Espinoza (Biden)

Eighth Congressional District Delegates (Vote for not more than 5)

Elizabeth Penesis (Biden)

Fred Crespo (Biden)

Yasmeen Bankole (Biden)

Kevin Morrison (Biden)

Ken Mejia-Beal (Biden)

DuPage County offices

Coroner (Vote for 1)

Jeffrey M. Jacobson

Judith Lukas

Recorder (Vote for 1)

Peter “Pete” DiCianni

Elizabeth (Liz) Chaplin

Kathleen V. Carrier

County Board, District 4 (Vote for 1)

Christine “Christy” E. Maes

Lynn LaPlante

Third Appellate Court

3rd Appellate (Lytton) (Vote for 1)

John Anderson

Joe Hettel

Eighteenth Judicial Circuit

18th Judicial (Kinsella) (Vote for 1)

Christine Cody

Leah Danielle Setzen

Luke P. Dussman

18th Judicial (Davenport) (Vote for 1)

Jennifer Barron

Keith E. “Chuck” Roberts, Jr.

Sadia Covert

18th Judicial (Brennan) (Vote for 1)

Sarah Kallas

Chantelle Porter

Republican

President of the United States (Vote for 1)

Ryan L. Binkley

Ron DeSantis

Nikki Haley

Donald J. Trump

Chris Christie

Third Congressional District

Delegates

(Vote for not more than 3)

Victoria I. Beis (Trump)

Andrea E. Fletcher (Trump)

Gordon J. Kinzler (Trump)

Michael E. Musson (DeSantis)

Richard A. Janor (DeSantis)

Jacqueline M. Pruitt (DeSantis)

Elizabeth Roskam (Haley)

Karyn Romano (Haley)

David Anderson (Haley)

Bernard Reinwald (Christie)

Alternate delegates

(Vote for not more than 3)

Farah Bari (Trump)

Balwinder Chhokar-Sahota (Trump)

Ed Pope (Trump)

Dominic J. Santucci (DeSantis)

Jonathan Serrano (DeSantis)

Andy Jekiel (DeSantis)

Peter Roskam (Haley)

Fourth Congressional District Delegates

(Vote for not more than 3)

Julian Aguilar (DeSantis)

Daniel J. Kordik (DeSantis)

Noel Talluto (DeSantis)

Katie Justak (Haley)

Theodore “Ted” Hadley (Haley)

David Herndon (Haley)

William McCloy (Trump)

William Merchantz (Trump)

Sherrie V. Saratore (Trump)

Kevin O’Keeffe (Christie)

Janice Ely (Christie)

Gregory Pesavento (Christie)

Alternate delegates

(Vote for not more than 3)

Kelly Smock (DeSantis)

Len Austin (DeSantis)

Tracie Nickley (DeSantis)

Laura Tussing (Haley)

Steve Fink (Haley)

Brian Hathaway (Trump)

Dorothy Hathaway (Trump)

Robert D. Kelsey, Jr (Trump)

Christopher Rodgers (Christie)

Pamela Goodman (Christie)

Ruben Gonzalez (Christie)

Sixth Congressional District Delegates

(Vote for no more than 3)

Kathleen A. Abbate (Trump)

Scott R. Kaspar (Trump)

Joyce Hebein (Trump)

Elizabeth “Liz” Doody Gorman (Haley)

Chuck Augustyniak (Haley)

Mary Tolan (Haley)

Kathleen Murphy (DeSantis)

Shaun Murphy (DeSantis)

Keith Pekau (DeSantis)

Ross Scanio (Christie)

Eva Tucker (Christie)

Michael Jacobs (Christie)

Alternate delegates

(Vote for no more than 3)

Beth A. Damas (Trump)

Larisa Calvanese (Trump)

Andrew V. Krok (Trump)

Dean Casper (Haley)

Michael Craven (Haley)

Bridget Tolan (Haley)

Grant Dungan (DeSantis)

Rhian Fazzini (DeSantis)

Katie Donnelly (DeSantis)

Jane Jacobs (Christie)

Karl Nika (Christie)

Catherine Nika (Christie)

State representative 49th District (Vote for 1)

Aris Garcia

Hannah Billingsley

Referenda

Addison Township

Proposition to authorize Addison Township to contract for and regulate refuse collection and disposal in the unincorporated areas of Addison Township (Vote yes or no)

Shall Addison Township, DuPage County, Illinois be authorized to exercise the powers of the “Township Refuse Collection and Disposal Act” (60 ILCS 1/210-5 et seq.) to enter into a contract for the collection, disposal, composting and recycling of garbage and refuse for residents of the unincorporated areas of Addison Township?

Bensenville Fire Protection District No. 2 (Vote yes or no)

Shall the trustees of the Bensenville Fire Protection District No. 2 be elected, rather than appointed?

Bloomingdale Township

Proposition to authorize Bloomingdale Township to contract for and regulate refuse collection and disposal in the unincorporated areas of Bloomingdale Township. (Vote yes or no)

Shall Bloomingdale Township, DuPage County, Illinois be authorized to exercise the powers of the “Township Refuse Collection and Disposal Act” (60 ILCS 1/210-5 et seq.) to enter into a contract for the collection, disposal, composting and recycling of garbage and refuse for residents of the unincorporated areas of Bloomingdale Township ?

Milton Township

Proposition to authorize Milton Township to contract for and regulate refuse collection and disposal in the unincorporated areas of Milton Township (Vote yes or no)

Shall Milton Township, DuPage County, Illinois be authorized to exercise the powers of the “Township Refuse Collection and Disposal Act” (60 ILCS 1/210-5 et seq.) to enter into a contract for the collection, disposal, composting and recycling of garbage and refuse for residents of the unincorporated areas of Milton Township?

York Township

Proposition to authorize York Township to contract for and regulate refuse collection and disposal in the unincorporated areas of York Township (Vote yes or no)

Shall York Township, DuPage County, Illinois be authorized to exercise the powers of the “Township Refuse Collection and Disposal Act” (60 ILCS 1/210-5 et seq. to enter into contracts for the collection, disposal, composting and

recycling of garbage and refuse in the unincorporated areas of York Township?

Butterfield Park District (Vote yes or no)

Shall Butterfield Park District annex the following described territory for park purposes?

(Address-Owner-Occupant)

2S726 RT 53, GLEN ELLYN IL, 60137—KPC RE LLC. KinderCare Learning Center

22W070 BUTTERFIELD RD, GLEN ELLYN, IL 60137—IKI Real Estate LLC. Mobile Gas

22W151 BUTTERFIELD RD, GLEN ELLYN, IL 60137—FMI Properties LLC. Starbucks

2S780 RT 53, GLEN ELLYN, IL 60137—FMI Properties LLC. BP Wash-n-Go

3S002 RT 53, GLEN ELLYN, IL 60137—MAR LAC House Ltd. Abbington Distinctive Banquets

3S010 RT 53, GLEN ELLYN, IL 60137—McDonalds Corp. McDonalds

3S100 RT 53, GLEN ELLYN, IL 60137—Walmart Inc. Walmart Inc.

Fenton Community High School District 100

Proposition to issue $65,000,000 school building bonds (Vote yes or no)

Shall the Board of Education of Fenton Community High School District Number 100, DuPage County, Illinois, improve the site of and renovate, alter, repair and equip the Fenton High School Building, including installing school safety and emergency response systems and equipment, repairing and replacing ventilation, plumbing and electrical infrastructure, increasing classroom capacity, improving classroom lighting and technology, renovating programming and career learning spaces and increasing accessibility with Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) compliance measures and issue bonds of said School District to the amount of $65,000,000 for the purpose of paying the costs thereof?

Glenbard Township High School District 87

Proposition to issue $183,000,000 school building bonds (Vote yes or no)

Shall the Board of Education of Glenbard Township High School District Number 87, DuPage County, Illinois, install safety and security improvements, increase accessibility with Americans with Disabilities Act compliance measures, repair and replace mechanical systems, roofs and other infrastructure, improve energy efficiency and technology infrastructure, renovate classrooms, science labs, vocational labs and learning spaces and undertake other building and site improvements to, and purchase equipment for, each of the School District’s four high schools—Glenbard East, Glenbard North, Glenbard South and Glenbard West—and issue its bonds to the amount of $183,000,000 for the purpose of paying the costs thereof?

Tail Gate for Dogs welcomes members of Synapse House

Shares tips on careers in animal care

On Wednesday, Feb. 21, Tail Gate for Dogs had the pleasure of hosting members from Synapse House for an unforgettable day filled with four-legged friendship and a pizza luncheon. Synapse House is a rehabilitation agency whose mission it is to Engage, Empower, and Employ individuals affected by brain injury or stroke.

At this particular event, the employment Members visited Tail Gate for Dogs to learn about careers in animal care. Tail Gate hosted an informational career discussion, facility tour, and lunch for Synapse House members.

“Our Members who are seeking employment benefited greatly from this visit and were all smiles when they returned to the Clubhouse today,” said one Synapse House official.

The four-legged friends at Tail Gate greeted their guests with wagging tails and endless excitement, creating heartwarming moments and fun for all involved. Not to mention, photo opportunities!

From playful romps to cuddle sessions, the bond between our pups and Synapse House members was truly special, said one observer.

Tail Gate would like to extend a special thank you to Synapse House, for bringing a day filled with smiles and laughter to Tail Gate for Dogs.

Tail Gate for Dogs & Synapse House are excited to continue to foster a community of love and positivity together.

To learn more about Synapse House, visit Synapsehouse.org.

Members of Synapse House enjoyed the four-legged friends they made while visiting at Tail Gate for Dogs recently. Guests were greeted with wagging tails and heartwarming fun for all involved. To learn more about Synapse House, visit Synapsehouse.org.

Why appraise that old quilt?

Unlock that quilt’s value at the ‘All Around the House’ Quilt Show

Ever wonder about the worth of that quilt tucked away in the closet? The Bensenville Park District invites the public to discover the hidden value of their quilts at the “All Around the House” Quilt Show, taking place between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday, April 6-7, at Fischer Farm.

Quilts, whether newly crafted or cherished family heirlooms, hold intrinsic value beyond their utilitarian purpose. Recognizing the worth of these quilts is crucial, and that’s where quilt appraisals come in. AQS Certified Appraiser Lynn Contri will be available by appointment both days to provide detailed assessments of these quilts. Walk-ins are also welcome and appreciated as the schedule allows.

Why appraise a quilt?

Contrary to common belief, quilt appraisals aren’t just for antique quilts. Even a recently made quilt may have a significant value when considering factors such as time spent and material costs. Appraisals are essential for insurance purposes, ensuring that in the unfortunate event of fire or damage, victims are compensated for the true value of their quilt rather than a generic replacement. To schedule an appointment with Contri, call 630-

254-5511. The written appraisal, available for the reasonable fee of $60, will thoroughly document the quilt’s physical description, including measurements, stitching details, fabric and batting type. Contri will assess the general condition of the quilt, providing accurate descriptions such as poor, fair, good or excellent. She will also inquire about any additional information that may enhance the quilt’s value.

The “All Around the House” Quilt Show at Fischer Farm will feature more than 100 quilts, including antique and contemporary pieces. Doll quilts, wall quilts, crib quilts and bed quilts will be showcased throughout the 1919 farmhouse, creating a delightful visual experience for attendees. To register a quilt for display at the show, please contact Christine Shiel, cshiel@bvilleparks.org.

In addition to the quilt show, visitors can explore the Quilter’s Barn Sale, offering a variety of items such as books, patterns, fabric, blocks, tops, quilts and more.

Fischer Farm is located at 16W680 Old Grand Avenue, Bensenville, situated east of Illinois Route 83 and west of Church Road. Admission to the quilt show is $5 for adults, $2 for ages 5-15, and free for children ages 4 and under.

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ly policy and developed the HE University staff training program. Chesak also partnered a with school district for iCompete, a mentoring initiative for at-risk youth.

Chesak’s tenure at the Glendale Heights Parks and Recreation Department showcased her skills in managing a $3.4 million budget and leading a $6 million facility renovation project.

She developed and implemented various programs, including a scholarship program and a customer service training program. Chesak’s dedication to community engagement was evident in her role as a committee member for Character Counts and the Senior Committees.

“I am thrilled to serve as the superintendent of recreation,” said Chesak, noting the opportunity to oversee the Bensenville Water Park in addition to recreational programs. “I look forward to the challenge and leveraging my experience to enhance the recreational offerings and community engagement in the district.”

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Sandro Sez...

Throwback Thursdays: Some of the best TV show theme songs ever

Editor’s note: Previously published columns by Mike Sandrolini are being re-published periodically on the Opinion page. This column was originally published in 2016.

A trend that’s become popular on online social sites such as Facebook and Instagram is known as Throwback Thursdays, where people post old blast-from-the-past photos of themselves and/or family members, or pics of noteworthy events from yesteryear.

So today’s literary offering coincides with Throwback Thursdays. Rather than post unflattering and embarrassing pics of myself here in print, however, I thought I’d go a different route.

Sitcoms and dramas were plentiful back in the day, and the accompanying theme songs sometimes turned out to be better than the programs themselves. So without further ado, here are a few of my favorite TV theme songs in alphabetical order.

(Sorry folks, but the theme songs from Cheers, Friends, M*A*S*H*, Gilligan’s Island, The Simpsons and Dr. Who didn’t make the cut.):

The A-Team

Sample lyrics: None (an instrumental)

Comments: The grandiose theme song followed the narrator’s intro of the A-Team: “In 1972, a crack commando unit was sent to prison by a military court for a crime they didn’t commit. These men promptly escaped from a maximum security stockade to the Los Angeles underground. Today, still wanted by the government, they survive as soldiers of fortune.”

The series (1983-1987, NBC) helped make Chicago’s very own Mr. T, who played B.A. Baracus, a household name. The theme song

By MIKE SANDROLINI Columnist

is routinely played on 670 The Score by weeknight host Laurence Holmes, whose show uses it when he introduces his production team.

All in the Family

Sample lyrics: (Archie Bunker:) Boy the way Glenn Miller played … (Edith Bunker:) Songs that made the hit parade … (Archie:) Guys like us we had it made … (Archie and Edith in unison:) Those were the days.

Comments: Arguably one of the most memorable theme songs in television history preceded one of TV’s most memorable sitcoms (19711979, CBS). There was never a dull moment under the roof of the Bunker household, with Archie and his “dingbat” wife Edith, their daughter, Gloria, and her husband, Michael, whom Archie always referred to as “Meathead.”

“Oh, goodnight,” my grandmother would say when Archie went off on his usually insulting and periodically bigoted diatribes. “He’s the berries.”

The Jeffersons

Sample lyrics: Well we’re movin’ on up (movin’ on up) to the east side (movin’ on up) to a deluxe apartment in the sky.

Comments: The Jeffersons, one the longest-running sitcoms in history (1975-1985, CBS), was a spinoff from “All in the Family,” focusing on the lives of George and Louise Jefferson, whom George called “Weezy.” The former neighbors of Archie and Edith

By Peter Hancock Capitol News illiNois

The U.S. Supreme Court ruled last week that individual states do not have authority to disqualify candidates for federal office based on the insurrection clause of the 14th Amendment.

The unanimous ruling by the nation’s high court overturned a decision by the Colorado Supreme Court. But it also had implications in Illinois and other states where Trump had been accused of taking part in an insurrection during the events surrounding the assault on the U.S. Capitol on Jan. 6, 2021.

“We conclude that states may disqualify persons holding or attempting to hold state office,” the court said in an unsigned opinion. “But states have no power under the Constitution to enforce Section 3 (of the 14th Amendment) with respect to federal offices, especially the Presidency.”

questions. But a Cook County circuit judge reversed that decision and ordered Trump removed from the Illinois primary ballot, although she put her decision on hold pending further appeals in state courts as well as the pending U.S. Supreme Court decision.

When the nation’s high court issued its decision, Ron Fein, legal director of the voting rights group Free Speech for People, which organized the ballot challenge in Illinois, called the ruling “disgraceful.”

“The Supreme Court couldn’t exonerate Trump because the evidence of his guilt was overwhelming, so instead the Justices neutered our Constitution’s built-in defense against insurrectionists and said the facts don’t matter,” he said in a statement.

Bunker, as the song suggests, moved away from the Bunkers’ neighborhood and into a high-rise New York City apartment. Sung with the help of a gospel choir, the theme song is guaranteed to get you clapping along right from the get-go.

Magnum P.I.

Sample lyrics: None (an instrumental)

Comments: Being an impressionable lad, I was glued to the introduction of the Magnum P.I. drama series (1980-1988, CBS). It showed Tom Selleck—who played Thomas Magnum, a private investigator in Hawaii—zipping around the islands in a helicopter, loading his revolver, chasing bad guys and holding up a young woman in his arms while teaching her how to snorkel (some guys have all the luck). All the while, the up-tempo theme song is playing in the background.

Sanford and Son

Sample lyrics: None (an instrumental)

Comments: Long before “Saturday Night Live” made the catchphrase “we need more cowbell” famous, the cowbell was a signature part of the theme from “Sanford and Son,” composed by Quincy Jones.

In the sitcom (1972-1977, NBC), which I watched during a free period in the high school Senior Lounge (yes, I’m that old), Fred Sanford (Redd Foxx) and his son, Lamont (Demond Wilson) ran a junk dealership business in south-central Los Angeles. Lamar ends up doing most of the work, and the two frequently trade barbs, with Fred calling Lamont a “big dummy” and Lamont referring to Fred as an “old fool.”

See SANDRO, Page 5

That clause bars anyone from holding federal or state office if they previously took an oath to defend the Constitution and then later participated in an insurrection or rebellion against the United States or gave aid and comfort to its enemies.

Enacted in the aftermath of the Civil War, it was intended to prevent former Confederates who had served in government before the war from returning to positions of power, but it has rarely been used in the nearly 150 years since the end of Reconstruction.

There was renewed interest in the amendment in the wake of events on Jan. 6, 2021, when throngs of protesters—many of them arguably summoned to action by Trump and his allies—stormed the Capitol in an effort to prevent Congress from certifying the results of the 2020 elections in which Trump was defeated for reelection by Democrat Joe Biden.

When Trump filed to run again in 2024, challenges were filed in several states. In Illinois, a group of voters filed an objection to his candidacy in the March 19 Republican primary, arguing that he was disqualified under the 14th Amendment.

The Illinois State Board of Elections dismissed the objection , partially on the grounds that it did not have authority to decide constitutional

But Trump, in remarks at his Mara-Lago estate that were carried on CBS News , called the decision “important” and “well crafted.”

“And I think it will go a long way toward bringing our country together which our country needs,” he said.

The unanimous portion of the ruling did not address several questions such as whether Trump’s actions on Jan. 6 constituted an insurrection or whether Section 3 of the 14th Amendment applies to the office of president.

It only held that individual states are not empowered to enforce that provision because allowing them to do so could lead to conflicting opinions and wreak havoc on national elections.

“The ‘patchwork’ that would likely result from state enforcement would ‘sever the direct link that the Framers found so critical between the National Government and the people of the United States’ as a whole,” the court said, quoting from an earlier Supreme Court decision.

Although the court was unanimous in saying states do not have authority to enforce Section 3 of the 14th Amendment, it was more divided on the question of how that provision could be enforced.

A majority on the court cited Section 5 of the amendment and said only Congress could enforce that provision through “appropriate legislation.”

See TRUMP, Page 7

A huge thank you to our Lombard police chief (Tom Wirsing) for his actions.

I have lived in Lombard for over 60 years and have been proud of our neighbors and leadership for most of the time, but never more so than when I saw the post on Facebook of you— personally—calling on a new business in town: MOTW Coffee and Pastries shop on Main Street, to welcome them, and let them know that we are happy to

have them as a part of our community.

I have seen—and heard—negative comments about this business based solely on the fact that they are Muslim owned and operated. You made it perfectly clear that we are not that kind of town, and the vast majority of Lombardians are happy to have them among us.

I stand with you 100%.

Sherron Schiewe Lombard

In all these years, why has there never been an expansion at Glenbard North High School to keep up with rising enrollments? Do they not have enough property to do so? Why do these students have to be bused to a farther-away school? And why not Glenbard West, which is closer? The students in those communities deserve to have their own “home” school to relate to.

Editor’s note: Your inquiry was forwarded to District 87 officials, who responded: “Thank you for your note. Glenbard District 87 is the third largest high school district in Illinois and covers 45 square miles. We work closely with our student transportation provider annually to provide an efficient bus route plan. Please note that Glenbard North has experienced declining enrollment in recent years. Administration and the Board of Education monitor and evaluate enrollment trends annually.”

* * *

I am tired of seeing the District 87 superintendent splashed all over the papers and in snail mail with his spin about the referendum. Who wouldn’t want to have the nicer facilities like some of the upper-echelon schools (think Hinsdale Central, Stevenson, Neuqua Valley), but we are not those communities. He has touted all the impressive stats that our district has achieved, yet the students fared well without benefit of the costlier amenities. Like a caller said last week, look at the top-heavy administration to see where a good portion of our tax dollars goes. I am all for hiring quality educators and administrators, but those at the top of the top are making enough money that they should be doing the work themselves, not delegating to other also-well-paid assistants and assistants to the assistants. I think the district needs to pare back on the administration end and put more of that money back into the classroom. Until then, no referendum of any amount will get a “yes” vote from me. And for those of you with the yard signs displaying your support, please think of

the residents like me, for whom this tax increase would be a financial hardship. * * *

I made the mistake last night (referring to Thursday, March 7) of watching the entire State of the Union speech and the Republican response. Biden was nothing but an angry, divisive old man, Kamala Harris was a clapping seal, Marjorie Taylor Greene played the partisan fool in her MAGA cap, and that senator from Alabama who gave the GOP response looked like she was auditioning for a part in a soap opera. What a drama queen! This is leadership? No wonder this country is in bad shape.

* * *

A message to the Trump people: read the book “Tired of Winning” by Jonathan Karl. You can get the book at the library. They have it. Thank you. Bye.

So much for states’ rights when it comes to who we select to vote for. The Supreme Court wants to control women’s bodies, and now wants to tell us who we can vote for. I believe every state should have their right to govern, with the exception of national defense and interstate highways—major areas that affect us all. Trump is guilty of insurrection and should not be on any ballot.

* * *

I started to watch the president’s State of the Union address, but when I saw all the women in the white dresses, and all the lofty politicians patting shoulders, waving to people, shaking hands and generally strutting egotistically as they walked into the House chamber—like star basketball players entering the court—I realized that it was going to be a you-know-what show, so I decided this was one train wreck I didn’t want to see. While I cannot stand Donald Trump, he is nothing if not predictable, whereas who knows what Joe Biden is going to say and do, like a marionette whose strings are being controlled by the far-left puppeteers. And his assertion that he is one of us common folks, put on your boots,

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because you are about step in the youknow-what.

* * *

So the politicians say they are looking out for us low-income citizens? If you are enrolled in the Affordable Connectivity Program, or ACP, it is about to end in April; that $30 monthly discount on your internet service will be going away unless Congress acts to continue the funding. Think of the people who work at home, or students from low-income families, who depend on that to help pay for internet service. But the Senate proposed spending $95 billion on aid to Ukraine and Israel? I understand the need to bolster our national security through aid to these countries, but the politicians first must consider the needs of those people who elected them. Contact your congressman, Sean Casten, or senators, Tammy Duckworth and Dick Durbin, and implore them to continue the funding. I did, but never got a response from Duckworth. And the other two? Their boiler-plate, gobbledy-gook rhetoric did not leave me optimistic, but hey, it’s worth a shot.

* * *

I read the crime story in the Feb. 29 paper about the five Venezuelan migrants who were arrested for burglary and retail theft after they allegedly stole merchandise from stores in Oak Brook. The story stated that “It is alleged that when the defenders were taken into custody, they were laughing at the officers and not taking this matter seriously.” Were they really laughing at the officers? To be specific, I’d say they were laughing at Biden (for letting them into the country), Pritzker (for his criminal-friendly SAFE-T Act) and the voters who are foolish enough to support Democrats. By the way, will any of these suspects show up for their court date on March 18?

* * *

Recently many of us lost power for a few hours during a storm. We have rechargeable flashlights that stay plugged in and only go on when the power goes off. (We’ve had them for years.) It’s just like an emergency light in a public building, only it’s small. We have one in the kitchen, bedroom and bathroom; what a great and inexpensive little tool. I thought you might like to know. If you can’t get it around here, they are online. * * *

When the Constitution and laws were written, the founding fathers had more common sense and moral honesty. They didn’t micromanage

• Sandro

S.W.A.T.

every word and phrase, as people of the times knew the difference between a man and a woman, as an example. Truth and justice were more important. Today everything is up for grabs as our safety and freedoms are challenged every day. Socialism and communism are taking over by the present administration. The 2024 election will be the big turning point of our culture and lifestyle with millions of illegal immigrants granted citizenship just before the election by the president’s executive order. Wake up and be proactive or Team America is going to lose.

* * *

Hello people of Lombard and Villa Park. Are you going to let this governor take away our voting? Pretty soon we won’t vote at all. They’ll just have it all their way. So I just want to let you know our voting is being taken away. We don’t have a choice, or do we? Bye.

* * *

Hi, this is Lombard calling in regard to District 87’s $183 million dollar tax bond. I am getting so tired of District 87 telling us that it’s only going to cost $4 a week on a house value to $300,000. Quit trying to downsize the number and tell us that it’s going to be over $200 added to your tax bill along with the higher amount that you’re going to be paying to District 87 because of the higher assessed value of your home. Take a look at your tax bill from last year and look at the numbers and just throw them out the window because they’re all going to be a lot higher. Would District 87 be happy if I were to send them a check for $4 every week? No, they want it all at once. I don’t see $183 million spent on metal detectors and Bunsen burners. And once again, I bet Glenbard West will receive the most amount of money as always. Wise up homeowners vote no to District 87.

Lombard officials, we need a couple of restaurants and a supermarket in High Point. Thank you. Bye.

Hi, I agree with the call the other week. If you look at the School District 87 referendum their list is mainly of things they want, not things they really need. The schools have survived before without it. I’d like to remodel my kitchen, so they want to update their cafeterias. Come on. Give me a break; it’s a want list. And the example they use of a $300,000 home would only have to pay $4 more a week. Well, you do the math; that’s over $200 a year, and I’d also like to know where

(Continued from page 4)

Sample lyrics: None (an instrumental)

Comments: S.W.A.T. was a forgettable series on ABC about a Special Weapons and Tactics team in California that lasted less than a year (from 1975-1976). Ah, but the theme song was unforgettable. Disco and funk were in their heyday back then, and the band Rhythm Heritage turned this theme song into a hit that went No. 1 on the Billboard charts in February, 1976. I don’t think I ever watched more than five minutes of a particular episode, but I rarely missed the show’s intro.

Welcome Back Kotter

Sample lyrics: Welcome back …

you could buy a house in Lombard for only $300,000. So it’s just a wish list as far as I’m concerned. Thank you, and goodbye.

* * *

When you say you will never vote for Biden, no matter what. Trump told Bob Woodward how deadly COVID was in February 2020, he told us to try laser beams, bleach and horse dewormer to cure it. Biden’s team got us vaccinated and we have been able to live normal lives again. We have recovered from COVID faster than any other country. Biden got jobs rebuilding our roads and bridges, and brought our jobless rate to the lowest in history. He’s bringing manufacturing to this country so we don’t have to buy from China. We have more and better health insurance, cheaper prescriptions. Trump has made you suspicious of law enforcement, spreading hateful messages about those who seeking asylum who are legal as your forefathers once were. What good things do you now stand for with Trump, whose fear, hate and insults are not the signs of leadership we expect in those who represent us. Do you truly want Trump again? Look up facts on Google or whomever you trust to tell you how much better this country is with the statistics we have always used: jobless rate, inflation rate, stock prices and more. Seek out the truth before you cast your vote.

*

* *

Please vote no on the District 87 referendum. Illinois already has the second highest property taxes in the country. And 61 percent of our property taxes goes to education. We are paying more than enough already. District 87, please cut out all the waste and live within your budget.

* * *

In case you haven’t figured out why we have a crisis with the illegal immigrants on the southern border, here is a clue. The Democratic Party is losing many voters. The grateful illegals will vote Democrat when the president gives them amnesty and citizenship before the 2024 election. They should win with the 8 to 12 million newbies on their side. Look out America.

* * *

I love it when leftist commentators and politicians say that something, or someone, is a threat to quote, “our democracy.” The advocates of “our democracy” always say that they are for diversity and inclusion. What a crock! If you don’t completely fall in line with their radical leftist policies, there is no place for you in “our democracy.”

your dreams were your ticket out. Welcome back … to that same old place that you laughed about.

Comments: Although this sitcom (1975-1979, ABC) was centered around Gabe Kotter, who returns to teach at his alma mater, one of the show’s main characters was John Travolta. Travolta played Vinnie Barbarino, considered the leader of the group of students Kotter taught, known as the “Sweathogs,” before Travolta gained fame and heartthrob status in “Saturday Night Fever.”

The theme song itself made it to No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart for one week in May, 1976.

WKRP in Cincinnati

Sample lyrics: Baby, if you ever

wondered … wondered whatever became of me. I’m living on the air in Cincinnati … Cincinnati, WKRP.

Comments: The sitcom WKRP in Cincinnati (1978-1982, CBS) can be best summed up in one sentence directly quoted from Wikipedia: It “features the misadventures of the staff of a struggling fictional radio station in Cincinnati, Ohio.”

Other than to listen to the opening theme, the only other reason I tuned into WKRP was perhaps the reason most teenage boys did: To gawk at Loni Anderson, who played the station’s receptionist. In real life, Loni will be 79 in August—can it be possible?—and is on her fourth husband.

Volunteers with The GardenWorks Project tend to a six-bed vegetable garden

The GardenWorks Project kicks off 13th season growing food security in DuPage County March 21

The GardenWorks Project, a local nonprofit organization expanding access to fresh produce for individuals and families facing food insecurity throughout the western suburbs, is kicking off its 13th season this spring.

Thanks to collaborations with volunteers, donors, local businesses and social service organizations, last year the organization grew over 14,000 pounds of fresh, nutritious produce in 140 garden beds throughout the western suburbs and facilitated produce donations of over 4,000 pounds from home gardeners and local farmers to food pantries.

The momentum continues as the organization prepares to dig in for the 2024 season, improving food equity and access for residents in DuPage and surrounding counties facing food insecurity. As the organization prepares for spring and the warm months ahead, it is pleased to announce its season

kickoff event:

The GardenWorks Project educational workshop and volunteer kick off takes place from 6-8 p.m. Thursday, March 21 at the DuPage County Fairgounds, 2015 Manchester Road, Building 5, Wheaton.

At 6 p.m., join Amanda Bryant, program manager of The GardenWorks Project, as she provides valuable insights on kick-starting a thriving vegetable garden this spring and offers guidance on growing produce for food pantries.

Following that, at 7 p.m., The GardenWorks Project staff will delve into the organization’s sustainable approach to food cultivation, efforts to enhance fresh food accessibility, and explore volunteer opportunities available for the upcoming season.

RSVP at the organization’s website: https:// gardenworksproject.org/calendar.

DuPage County, Morton Arboretum partnering on tree planting initiative

The DuPage County Division of Transportation (DuDOT) will remove invasive species from a portion of the Illinois Prairie Path this spring and replace them with oak trees.

The county recently received an Oak Ecosystems grant from Morton Arboretum and Nicor Gas to fund a pilot project designed to grow new native plants and trees on the path in the area northwest of the intersection of Diversey Parkway and Wiant Road.

“We are pleased to be a part of this effort to reforest the Prairie Path with native species, including a new generation of majestic oak trees. We are grateful to our partners with the Morton Arboretum and Nicor Gas for their help to enhance our landscape for decades,” said Mary Fitz-

Gerald Ozog, Chair of the county’s Transportation Committee.

The first stage is to remove invasive species, including European buckthorn and Japanese Honeysuckle, which degrade environmental health, reduce trail user visibility, and encroach on clear zones where trail users can safely step off the path. Roughly two acres of wooded, invasive trees will be cut flush to the ground and removed from along the Prairie Path. The cut stumps will be treated with an herbicide application to kill the plants.

“Invasive trees and shrubs represent a staggering 45 percent of Chicago-region trees,” said Melissa Custic, Morton Arboretum’s Chicago Region Trees Initiative interim director and operations manager.

“Woody invasive plants such as

DuPage County Prevention Leadership Team honors changemakers in substance use prevention and mental health efforts DuPage County Glenbard East student among those honored

The DuPage County Prevention Leadership Team (PLT), a coalition committed to preventing youth substance use and promoting mental health among youth in DuPage County, announced the recipients of the 2023 Changemaker Award.

The annual Changemaker Award recognizes those who show leadership and commitment to advancing prevention efforts and keeping DuPage County’s youth safe. The 2023 Changemaker Award recipients include:

Teen Changemaker Award: Leila Nehra, a senior at Glenbard East High School and an active member of the DuPage Action Team, Teen Ambassadors. Leila’s leadership in spreading awareness of substance use prevention and mental health initiatives among her peers in District 87 shows her commitment to positive change.

Adult Changemaker Award: Felicia Miceli, who for the past 10 years, has supported awareness, education, and prevention of youth drug overdose deaths through the LTM Foundation, Serenity House, and DuPage ROSC. Her efforts, including the recent passing of Louie’s Law, have positively impacted DuPage County and beyond.

Community Changemaker

Award: Presented to Milton Township for its commitment to mental health and substance use prevention through its Mental Health Board. Milton Township’s initiatives have positively influenced thousands of residents and set an example for other communities.

Organizational Changemaker

Award: Awarded to the College of DuPage for its outstanding community partnership and leadership in supporting substance use prevention and mental health initiatives. The college’s commitment to raising awareness and providing resources to its student population demonstrates its commitment to community well-being.

“We’re proud to honor these changemakers for their hard work,” said Jordan Esser, project coordinator of the DuPage County Prevention Leadership Team. “They inspire us to make our youth’s future brighter and healthier.”

If you know an individual, organization, or community that is committed to preventing youth substance use you can nominate them for the Changemaker Award by visiting www.dupageplt.org/187/Changemaker-Award.

DuPage County provides nearly $1 million to local food pantries

The DuPage County Board recently voted to allocate nearly $1 million to 16 food pantries to assist with vehicles, capital equipment, and technology purchases.

In August 2023, the county established the Local Food Pantry Infrastructure Investment Program to provide funds from the American Rescue Plan Act to food pantries. These funds will assist with capital equipment purchases that help the pantries store, package, and deliver food or essential commodities. Funds may also be used for information technology investments for data collection, reporting, or for issuing payments.

buckthorn wreak havoc on our oak and other native ecosystems. Collaborative work like this to manage invasive species is extremely important for the health of our regional forest and native habitats.”

DuDOT staff are trained by certified arborists to prune native tree species in accordance with vegetation management best practices, as well as invasive species removal techniques. No healthy trees will be removed, and no removals will take place on private property.

The second stage of the project will involve tree planting. The county has selected three different species of oak trees to be planted in this area. Removal of invasive species is expected to begin in March and planting will begin in April or May.

“These targeted investments will make it easier to get fresh food to the neediest residents in our county quickly, provide important resources to local pantries and strengthen our food distribution network for decades to come,” said Human Services Committee Chair Greg Schwarze.

The following food pantries received funds through the program:

• Bensenville Wood Dale Food Pantry—$109,251.26

• Downers Grove Area Fish, Inc.—$50,000

• Elmhurst Yorkfield Food Pantry – $25,000

• Glen House Food Pantry—$91,715

• HCS Family Services—$29,050

• ICNA Relief USA Programs—$79,500

• Interfaith Food Pantry, Inc.—$9,669

• Lisle Township Food Pantry—$108,491.03

• Loaves & Fishes Community Services—$31,407

• Milton Township Food Pantry—$75,000

• Neighborhood Food Pantries—$23,255.54

• People’s Resource Center—$145,565

• The Outreach House, Lombard—$25,588

• The Salvation Army Oakbrook Terrace—$13,104.50

Wayne Township Food Pantry—$7,960

• West Suburban Community Pantry—$86,117.24

SUBMITTED PHOTO Rock Valley Publishing

system in Naperville.

Obituaries

DONALD G. FINNIE

Donald ‘Don’ G.

Finnie, life-long Lombardian and proud Glenbard East Ram, passed away on the 9th of March. Don was born to the late George and the late Dorothy, nee Hull, Finnie.

Don grew up in Lombard and attended Glenbard East High School. There, at age 17, he met Barb. She was at the pay phone at school and in need of some change. Don walked up, offered her some and they got to chatting. They started dating in December of 1966. The high school sweethearts got married 5 years later in Lombard at Holy Trinity Lutheran Church on August 28th, 1971.

Barb and Don lived in Lombard, in the house Barb’s father built. There, Don and Barb raised a family. Don was the loving dad of Cheryl (Ron) Mika, Jeanette (Eric) Leach, Tami (Sean) Harrison, Georgette Finnie, and Brett Finnie. Dear Papa of Mikayla Mika, Lexi Mika, Jake Leach, Hannah Leach, Jayden Phistry, Colin

• Trump

(Continued from page 4)

But three justices who were nominated to their seats by Democratic presidents—Sonia Sotomayor, Elena Kagan, and Ketanji Brown Jackson— wrote a concurring opinion saying it was unnecessary to address Congress’ powers or duties.

“Today, the majority goes beyond the necessities of this case to limit how Section 3 can bar an oath-breaking insurrectionist from becoming President,” they wrote. “Although we agree that Colorado cannot enforce Section 3, we protest the majority’s effort to use this case to define the limits of federal enforcement of that provision.”

A fourth justice, Amy Coney Barrett, wrote separately that the opinion should have been limited to reversing the Colorado Supreme Court decision.

Answering questions at an unrelated event in Urbana last week, Gov. JB Pritzker said he believed Trump remaining on the ballot would be a net positive for Democrats in Illinois.

“We’re going to win here in Illinois and beat Donald Trump and, I think I said yesterday or the day before, I think it will help Democrats that he’s on the ballot,” Pritzker said.

David Becker, executive director of the nonpartisan Center for Election Innovation & Research, said the decision effectively put an end to state-level challenges to Trump’s candidacy based on the 14th Amendment. But he said the issue will almost certainly come up again if Trump wins the general election in November.

“The one place where I think this is likely to come up is on Jan. 6, (2025),” he said. “If Donald Trump wins, I think we can absolutely expect that there will be members of Congress who will object to his electoral votes—perhaps in many, many states—on the basis that he’s not a qualified candidate, because he violated section three of the 14th Amendment.”

Phistry, Ashlynn Finnie, and Kane Finnie. Great grandpa to Ezra and Oliver Leach.

To say Don loved sports would be an understatement. He played basketball and baseball at Glenbard East. He attended Lea College in Minnesota, where he played both baseball and basketball during his time there. Don was quite the athlete, being scouted by some Major League Baseball teams. During that time, he fell in love with Barb, putting his athletic career to the side to start a life with her. He did manage to make time for a men’s 16-inch softball league locally. Don continued his love for athletics by coaching, first with his kids, and continuing at Glenbard East High School.

Coach, Coach Finnie, Finns were all nicknames for him on the basketball court and softball field. Don coached all levels of basketball and softball at East for 20+ years. Don loved mentoring and guiding kids at Glenbard East, teaching them skills and teamwork. Go Rams!

Away from the field, Don loved spending time with his grandkids. Visiting Lilacia Park to see the Christmas lights with his family was a treasured tradition. Don was an avid reader, often reading multiple books at once. He read his Bible often, marking verses and stories he liked.

A Visitation will be held at Brust Funeral Home on Friday, March 15th, from 9:00 AM until the time of the Funeral Service at 1:00 PM. Interment will follow immediately after the service and will take place at Forest Hill Cemetery in Glen Ellyn.

In lieu of flowers, memorials to Rams in Need would be appreciated. Please make checks payable to Glenbard East High School and write ‘Rams in Need’ in the memo line, and mail to Glenbard East High School, 1014 S. Main St., Lombard, IL 60148. Info: www.brustfuneralhome.com or 888-629-0094.

JUDITH ANN KROPIDLOWSKI, 81

Judith Ann “Judy” Kropidlowski, age 81, of Lombard, Illinois, passed away peacefully on March 9th, 2024, at Arden Courts Promerica Memory

Care Community. The family appreciated the care she received at the facility.

Judy was born August 28, 1942, in Savanna, IL. She was the daughter of the late Leon and Anna, nee Smola Ost.

She earned her undergraduate and Master’s degree in English from UW-Stevens Point, which is also where she met her husband, Donald Kropidlowski.

On July 2, 1966, Don and Judy were married at St. James Catholic Church in Amherst, Wisconsin.

Together they lived most of their lives in Plover, WI, until moving to Fountain Hills, AZ, in 2010. They most recently moved to Lombard, IL, in November 2022.

She retired from teaching English, Speech and Drama at East Junior High in Wisconsin Rapids, WI. She also taught English and Speech at Mid-State Technical College.

Judy loved to teach, even went back to “sub” after being retired. She and Don traveled extensively visiting six Continents. Judy could be found planting flowers in the springtime, loved shopping and of course, spending time with family and friends.

Judy is survived by her husband of 57 years, Donald Kropidlowski, her children Michael (Robert Scotz) and Rebecca Kropidlowski, her only grandson - her pride and joy, Ryan Kropidlowski and her brother Bill (Pat) Ost.

Memorial Gathering at Knollcrest Funeral Home, 1500 S. Meyers Rd, on Wednesday, March 20th, 9 a.m. until time of prayers at 10 a.m., followed by Mass at 10:30 a.m. at Christ the King Catholic Church, 1501 S. Main St., Lombard. Inurnment will be held at a later date at St. James Catholic Church Cemetery in Amherst, Wisconsin.

In lieu of flowers, memorials to Mid-State Technical College Foundation, Inc., 500 32nd Street North, Wisconsin Rapids, WI 54494, are appreciated. For info: www.knollcrest.net or 630-932-1500.

Maple Street Concerts presents Edie Carey with special guest Gia Dagenhart March 23

Maple Street Concerts presents Edie Carey with special guest Gia Dagenhart.

The concert takes place at the historic Maple Street Chapel, 200 S. Main St., Lombard on Saturday, March 23, at 7 p.m.

Maple Street Concerts warmly welcomes Colorado-based singer-songwriter Edie Carey, who is known for her unmistakable, soulful voice, her intelligent, heart-grabbing songs, but perhaps most especially for her warm, engaging presence on—and off— stage.

As much a part of her show as the music itself, Carey’s wry and often self-mocking humor makes audiences feel as though they have just spent an evening with a very close friend. She has been singing at festivals, colleges, and listening rooms across the U.S., Canada, and Europe since 1999. She has performed alongside Emmylou Harris, Lyle Lovett, Brandi Carlisle, and Shawn Mullins, and was a featured vocalist on the Grammy-winning Ensemble Album, “All the Ladies” in 2020. Edie is a Kerrville New

Folk Contest winner (2012), and her 11 th album, “The Veil,” was released in June 2022. https://ediecarey.com/

In honor of Maple Street Concerts 40 th year, Lombard local Gia Dagenhart, a budding songwriter with an impressive voice, will perform an opening set. Dagenhart is a music student at Lawrence University (Appleton, Wisconsin) and is the daughter of Maple Street Concerts’ founder, the late Bryan Dagenhart, and their current concert presenter, Melissa Dagenhart.

Tickets are $20 (online ticket purchase includes a $1.25 processing fee = $21.25) maplestreetconcerts.org with PayPal or credit card.

Tickets may also be purchased at the door with cash or check only, pending availability.

All sales are final. (Doors open at 6:30 p.m.)

You can also preview Gia Dagenhart live on Lilli Kuzma’s Folk Festival Radio Show on Tuesday, March 19. Folk Festival airs from 8-11 p.m. at 90.9 FM WDCB Public Radio and it streams live at WDCB.org.

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

March 3

Erick Otoniel Figueroa Ramos, 39, of Addison, was charged with DUI, disregarding a traffic control device, illegal backing and making an improper turn at an intersection near Addison and Oak at 1:30 a.m.

March 2

Raquel A. Haynes, 41, of Berwyn, was charged with DUI in the 700 block of E. Lake at 3:20 a.m.

March 1

A 31-year-old Addison man was charged with domestic battery in the 100 block of S. Addison at 8:43 p.m.

A 47-year-old Glendale Heights man was charged with resisting a police officer and two counts of domestic battery in the 200 block of E. Lincoln at 3:24 a.m.

A 36-year-old Addison man was charged with two counts of domestic battery in the 200 block of Parkview at 1:42 a.m.

Feb. 29

Isaiah K. Nunly, 27, of Stream-

wood, was charged with retail theft of displayed merchandise at a store in the 2100 block of W. Euclid at 1:25 p.m.

Edy Rodriguez Marin, 32, of Glendale Heights, was charged with driving while license expired, improper lane usage and two counts of DUI near Army Trail and Heritage at 2:26 a.m.

Bensenville

March 6, 9:22 a.m. in the 200 block of W. Grand Ave., police said Sotero H. Garcia-Cifuentes, 29, of Bensenville, was arrested on a failure to appear warrant. BEPC2400169

March 6, 12:05 p.m. in the 100 block of E. Crest Ave. a complainant reported being defrauded out of money by someone pretending to be

Man charged with burglary at Oak Brook Nordstrom

Also cited for allegedly fighting with officers

an employee from Metra. This case is under investigation. BEPC2400170

March 6, 2:58 p.m. in the 100 block of George Street, a complainant reported an unknown suspect used her information to open an account with Verizon and incurred charges. This case is under investigation. BEPC2400171

March 5, 11:19 p.m. in the 800 block of Dennis Drive, a 38-year-old Bensenville man was arrested on domestic battery. BEPC2400168

March 1, 12:52 p.m. in the 1000 block of David Drive., a complainant reported the vehicle registration sticker had been stolen from his license plate. This case is under investigation. BEPC2400161

March 1, 7:53 p.m. near Church and Irving, officers stopped a vehicle matching description in a hit and run crash. Police said the driver of the vehicle Reinaldo Luna-Morales, 43, of Elmhurst, was found to have a revoked driver’s license. He was also charged with aggravated DUI, leaving the scene of an accident and other traffic violations. He was transported to the station for processing, then transported to the Du Page County Jail. BEPC2400163

on the 600 block of Thomas Drive, then westbound on Foster Avenue. A pursuit was initiated. The vehicle stopped at First Avenue and I-290 where the suspects fled on foot southbound through the cemetery. Unable to locate after multi-agency search. This incident is under investigation. BEPC2400159

March 1, 6:46 a.m. in the 600 block of Thomas Drive, a complainant reported theft of packages by an unknown suspect. This incident is under investigation. BEPC2400160

Feb. 29, 9:07 a.m. on the 1-100 block of S. Center St., a complainant reported a check was sent out to a vendor and never received. The check was cashed by another unknown individual. This case is under investigation. BEPC2400157

Feb. 29, 5:57 p.m. in the 4400 block of S. Frontage Road, Hillside, police said Mariyah Moore, 23, of Chicago, was arrested for a warrant out of Villa Park and wanted for aggravated fleeing and eluding out of Bensenville. She was transported to DuPage County. BEPC2400100

Silagi

DuPage County State’s Attorney Robert Berlin and Oak Brook Chief of Police Brian Strockis have announced that charges have been filed against a Chicago man for allegedly stealing more than $1,300 worth of merchandise from the Oak Brook Nordstrom store and getting into a physical altercation with Oak Brook police officers.

Zachary Silagi, 30, appeared at First Appearance Court where Judge Alex McGimpsey denied the state’s motion to detain him pre-trial. Silagi is charged with one count of burglary (Class 2 felony), one count of retail theft (Class 3 felony) and one count of resisting or obstructing a police

officer causing injury (Class 4 felony).

On Saturday, March 2 at approximately 8:13 p.m., Oak Brook police officers were dispatched to the Nordstrom store located at 10 Oak Brook Center, for a report of a man suspected of stealing who was fighting with loss prevention officers.

It is alleged that the man, later identified as Silagi, entered the Nordstrom with Target store bags, selected various items for sale and went to a fitting room.

It is alleged that when Silagi exited the fitting room, he had no visible merchandise on him, but the Target store bags he brought with him were now full with approximately $1,300 worth of clothing and men’s cosmetics. It is further alleged that Silagi attempted to leave the store without paying for the merchandise, where he was stopped by loss prevention

officers. It is alleged that Silagi began fighting with loss prevention officers and when an Oak Brook police officer stationed at the mall arrived to assist, he continued fighting, causing injury to the loss prevention officers and the Oak Brook police officer assigned to the mall.

Additional Oak Brook police arrived at the scene at which time Silagi was taken into custody.

“The allegations that Mr. Silagi entered Nordstrom, helped himself to $1,300 worth of merchandise and then got into a physical altercation with authorities as he attempted to leave without paying are outrageous,” Berlin said.

“In DuPage County, we have no tolerance for this type of criminal behavior and I guarantee that if you steal from any of our retail establishments, you will be arrested, charged and prosecuted.”

DuPage County, Morton Arboretum partner on tree-planting initiative

The DuPage County Division of Transportation (DuDOT) will remove invasive species from a portion of the Illinois Prairie Path this spring and replace them with oak trees.

The county recently received an Oak Ecosystems grant from Morton Arboretum and Nicor Gas to fund a pilot project designed to grow new native plants and trees on the path in the area northwest of the intersection of Diversey Parkway and Wiant Road.

“We are pleased to be a part of this effort to reforest the Prairie Path with native species, including a new generation of majestic oak trees. We are grateful to our partners with the Morton Arboretum and Nicor Gas for their help to enhance our landscape for decades,” said Mary Fitz-

Gerald Ozog, Chair of the county’s Transportation Committee.

The first stage is to remove invasive species, including European buckthorn and Japanese Honeysuckle, which degrade environmental health, reduce trail user visibility, and encroach on clear zones where trail users can safely step off the path. Roughly two acres of wooded, invasive trees will be cut flush to the ground and removed from along the Prairie Path. The cut stumps will be treated with an herbicide application to kill the plants.

“Invasive trees and shrubs represent a staggering 45 percent of Chicago-region trees,” said Melissa Custic, Morton Arboretum’s Chicago Region Trees Initiative interim director and operations manager.

“Woody invasive plants such as

buckthorn wreak havoc on our oak and other native ecosystems. Collaborative work like this to manage invasive species is extremely important for the health of our regional forest and native habitats.”

DuDOT staff are trained by certified arborists to prune native tree species in accordance with vegetation management best practices, as well as invasive species removal techniques. No healthy trees will be removed, and no removals will take place on private property.

The second stage of the project will involve tree planting. The county has selected three different species of oak trees to be planted in this area. Removal of invasive species is expected to begin in March and planting will begin in April or May.

March 1, 2:57 a.m. near N. Route 83 and Foster Avenue, a license plate reader hit on a suspect burglary vehicle on Foster Avenue. A Bensenville officer observed the vehicle

Feb. 29, 9:47 p.m. in the100 block of Bridget Ct., Juan J. Gomez-Lopez, 21, Benjamin Gomez-Velasco, 18, both of Bensenville, were arrested for criminal damage to property and disorderly conduct after allegedly breaking a suspect’s door. BEPC2400158

Join Addison Floral and VFW Post 7446 Auxiliary for its annual fundraiser which benefits the VFW’s veteran’s program, starting at 7 p.m. Friday, April 12, at VFW Post 7446—446 W. Lake St. Watch as an expert florist from Addison Floral teaches how to expertly craft beautiful floral arrangements (your entry ticket makes you eligible to win one of the many floral arrangements).

There also will be a basket raffle, in which you have an opportunity to win the over 30 baskets that will be available. In addition, there will be a bonus raffle to benefit a cancer charity.

The doors open at 6 p.m. and the floral show starts at 7.

There is a $6 per person donation at the door. For more information, visit: https://addisonvfw.org/contact-us.

Unions back measure protecting employees who skip religious or political work meetings

By Alex Abbeduto CAPITOL NEWS ILLINOIS

Democrats in the Illinois Senate on March 6 advanced a measure that would prohibit Illinois companies from requiring employees to attend work-related meetings about politics or religion.

Senate Bill 3649, which is backed by organized labor, passed the Senate Labor Committee 11-4. Backers have dubbed it the “Worker Freedom of Speech Act.”

Tim Drea, president of the Illinois AFL-CIO labor organization, said the bill would help Illinoisans avoid unnecessary and potentially uncomfortable gatherings in which workers are forced to be a “captive audience” for their employers’ political or religious speech.

“They go to work for a paycheck and to make a profit for the employer, period,” Drea said. “Not to be indoctrinated by anyone’s religious or political beliefs.”

Under the proposal, it would be illegal for a business to “discharge,

discipline, or otherwise penalize” an employee who “declines to attend or participate in an employer-sponsored meeting “about religious or political matters,” according to the bill’s language.

Employees who believe their workplaces violated the law would be able to file a complaint with the Illinois Department of Labor and sue their employer to reverse any illegal punishment, like being fired for not attending a meeting.

Opponents of the bill, like National Federation of Independent Business Illinois State Director Noah Finley, said the legislation would infringe on employers’ civil liberties by creating “content-based discrimination.”

He also claimed the measure would prevent employees from getting new points of view from their employer— such as which legislation their union dues could support.

Republicans on the committee expressed concerns that the bill’s definitions of “religious” and “political” speech were too broad.

Zachary

DuPage Senior Citizens Council

executive

director

recognized as Patriotic Employer by ESGR

Last November, Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve (ESGR), a Department of Defense Agency, recognized DuPage Senior Citizens Council (DSCC) Executive Director, Marylin Krolak with the award for Patriotic Employer.

The ESGR’s mission is to “develop and promote a culture in which all American employers support and value the military service of their employees.”

Krolak was nominated for the award by employee Jordan Holm of the ARNG for the support he has received since being employed at DSCC.

“The Patriot Award is entrusted to employers who go above and beyond in accommodating the special needs and circumstances in which members of our Nation’s Reserve Forces operate. Often, the service obligations of these individuals can cause strain on their personal lives while they try to juggle their commitment to both their civilian and military work,” said Holm, DSCC Social Connections Services manager. “Marylin has been an exemplary employer through her understanding and willingness to work with me whenever time conflicts arise. She is always willing to approve my requests for time off and does not penalize me for additional time off that I need to complete mandatory assignments for the Illinois Army National Guard.”

At DSCC, several members of staff, both part-time and full-time, are U.S. Veterans.

Holm said, “Marylin is proactive in hiring veterans for roles within the organization. DuPage Senior Citizen’s Council is an incredible work environment for anybody and continues to be a beacon for the veteran community through its policies and willingness to work around the busy schedules of those still serving our nation today.”

“I am honored to have received this award on behalf of DuPage Senior Citizens Council,” said Krolak.

In receiving this award, Krolak and DSCC as an organization joined other employers in pledging to continue to recognize U.S. Service members and accommodate their circumstances in the workplace as needed.

The DuPage Senior Citizens Council is a not-for-profit 501(c)(3), volunteer-driven organization, dedicated to helping seniors live with dignity. The DuPage Senior Citizens Council provides a variety of services for seniors, including Meals on Wheels, senior dining, health and wellness education, well-being checks, pet food and assistance, yard clean-ups, social connection services, and intergenerational activities.

Coming events

Villa Park Library art program March 25

Calling all young artists. Come to the Villa Park Public Library on Monday, March 25 at 1 p.m. to bring life to a new Manga-inspired character. Using ink and colored pencils, learn from Terri Murphy how to bring a contemporary feel to a retro comic book style. Registration is required. For more information, visit the library’s website at www.vppl.info or call 630-834-1164.

Comedian to perform at Maple Street Chapel March 24

Comedian Michelle Krajecki performs at the Maple Street Chapel Sunday March 24, at 3 p.m. Krajecki travels all over the Midwest and beyond. She was a core member of Flashback, Funny Funny Forward, a vaudeville review with Karen Knotts and The High Fibre Comedy Show. She is currently traveling with Boomer Broads Comedy. Her comedy has been described as “observational,” “relatable” and “hilarious.” Admission is $20.To order tickets or for more information, visit MapleStreetChapel.Org, where you can pay using PayPal or print a mail-in order form, or mail in a check payable to “Maple Street Chapel” to Ken Bohl, 213 W.Ash St., Lombard IL 601482505.Tickets will also be available at the door for check or cash payment only.

The chapel is located at 200 S. Main St., the corner of Main & Maple, with parking available in the lots on west Maple Street. Funds raised by this concert support the preservation of the historic chapel.

Gardening program at Villa Park Library March 21

Come to the Villa Park Public Library on Thursday, March 21, at 6:30 p.m. to learn basic composting methods and get information on which native plants to add to your garden to attract pollinators and beneficial insects to your yard. Registration is required. For more information, visit the library’s website at www.vppl.info or call 630-834-1164.

Worship services at Faith United Methodist

Faith United Methodist Church Lombard, 815 S Finley Road, Lombard, is celebrating a variety of Eas-

ter activities and warmly invites the community to join us for the following worship opportunities: Palm Sunday, March 24, 9 a.m. Worship Service with palms. Easter Sunday, March 31, at 9 a.m. Worship Service. Will be celebrating communion and decorating the Cross of Christ with live flowers. Questions, please leave a voice mail on church phone number which is 630627-1039.

B-PAC, GPS program March 21

B-PAC: Glenbard Bilingual Parent Advisory Council and GPS: Glenbard Parent Series in Spanish will present “The Parent Child Relationship Balancing Love and Authority” with psychologist Mario Guzmán at 6 p.m. Thursday, March 21, at Glenbard West, 670 Crescent Blvd. in Glen Ellyn. This program will be presented in Spanish only. Guzmán will share tips to develop a healthy relationship with adolescents and pave the way for a strong relationship in the adult years. Guzmán is an associate professor of psychology at Trinity Christian College. He works with clients and presents parenting seminars to the Hispanic community. For further information, visit glenbardgps.org or contact Luz Luna at luz_luna@glenbard.org or 630-9427447.

Villa Park Library program on Paul McCartney

The Villa Park Public Library invites you to join us on Tuesday, March 26, at 7 p.m. to delve into the musical career of Paul McCartney. From The Beatles to Wings, to collaborations with Stevie Wonder and Kanye West, to a multi-movement oratorio, McCartney’s influence on music has been profound and wide-ranging. The focus will be on his post-Beatles work and will feature guided listening of selected songs as well as discussion of his impact and legacy. Registration is required. For more information, visit the library’s website at www.vppl.info or call 630-834-1164.

GPS program March 19

The Glenbard Parent Series: (GPS) Navigating Healthy Families will present “The School of Hard Talks: Motivational Interviewing for Better Conversations and More Rewarding Relationships with Your Kids” with clinical

psychologist Emily Kline at noon and 7 p.m. Tuesday, March 19, via Zoom. Go to glenbardgps.org for further information and the links to these webinars. Kline will share a communication style called motivational interviewing that anyone can use to bring about positive change and make hard talks easier. To be placed on a reminder list for GPS events or submit a question in advance, contact Gilda Ross, Glenbard District 87 student and community projects coordinator, at gilda_ross@ glenbard.org or 630-942-7668. Continuing professional development units are available for these webinars.

Documentary screening

March 16 at LHS

Join us for a compelling documentary screening at the Carriage House of the Lombard Historical Society. We proudly present “All Citizens: The Lombard Women Who Voted 29 Years Before the 19th Amendment And the Story of Those Who Made it Possible,” a film by acclaimed local filmmaker Tim Frakes. This event is

scheduled for March 16 at 2 p.m. and promises to be an insightful exploration into a pivotal moment in both local and national history. This program is free but registration is required as space is limited. Register at lombardhistory.org.

Illinois Libraries Present: Costume Designer Ruth E. Carter

Wednesday, March 20, at 7 p.m. Join us for a live virtual conversation with Ruth E. Carter, two-time Academy Award-winning costume designer. Carter made history as the first Black person to win the Costume Design category, winning an Academy Award for Black Panther. To receive the Zoom link, register at helenplum.org. Illinois Libraries Present is funded in part by a grant awarded by the Illinois State Library, a department of the Office of Secretary of State, using funds provided by the U.S. Institute of Museum and Library Services, under the provisions of the Library Services and Technology Act (LSTA).

FAITH CHURCH OF ELMHURST

FAITH C HU R C H

FAITH C HU R C H

FAITH C HU R C H

LAUNCHING A NEW GLOBAL METHODIST CHURCH

LAUNCHING A NEW GLOBAL METHODIST CHURCH

LAUNCHING A NEW GLOBAL METHODIST CHURCH

Sunday Worship: 10 am

Sunday Worship: 10 am

Sunday Worship: 10 am

HO LY WEEK AC TIVITIES :

:

HO LY WEEK AC TIVITIES :

Maundy Thursday (March 28) 6:30 pm

Maundy Thursday (March 28) 6:30 pm

Maundy Thursday (March 28) 6:30 pm

Good Friday (March 29) 7 pm

Good Friday (March 29) 7 pm

Good Friday (March 29) 7 pm

Easter Sunrise Service (March 31) 7:45 am

Easter Sunrise Service (March 31) 7:45 am

Easter Sunrise Service (March 31) 7:45 am

Easter Celebration (March 31) 10 am

Easter Celebration (March 31) 10 am

Easter Celebration (March 31) 10 am

111 W North Avenue Elmhurst, IL 60126 www.faithchurchelmhurst.org 630-941-0212 faithelm@gmail.com

111 W North Avenue Elmhurst, IL 60126 www.faithchurchelmhurst.org 630-941-0212 faithelm@gmail.com

111 W North Avenue Elmhurst, IL 60126 www.faithchurchelmhurst.org 630-941-0212 faithelm@gmail.com

Sunday Worship at 9:45 AM

Come worship with us!

300 East Belden Avenue, Elmhurst, IL 60126 www.dmfellowship.org 452157

St. Timothy Evangelical Lutheran Church

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

Lent and Easter Services at 7 p.m.

“The

Lent Services at 7pm

Crucial Hours”

Second Lenten Service March 9, 2022

“The Passion of Jesus in the Gospel of John”

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

Third Lenten Service March 16, 2022

Sixth Lenten Service March 20, 2024

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

Fourth Lenten Service March 23, 2022

THE CONQUEROR WINS THE VICTORY John 19:28-42 ✝ ✝ ✝ ✝ ✝ ✝ ✝ ✝ ✝ ✝

Gather with us for weekend worship!

Saturdays 5:00 p.m.

Sundays 8:30 a.m. and 11:00 a.m.

Education Hour between services at 9:45 a.m.

Mid-week Worship during Lent Wednesdays at 12:00 p.m. and 6:30 p.m.

Handicapped accessible and hearing loop enabled 452122

142 E. Third St. Elmhurst, IL ImmanuelElmhurst.org 630-832-1649 450691

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

Maundy Thursday Communion 7:00pm, March 28

Good Friday Tenebrae 7:00pm, March 29

Easter Festival 10:15am, March 31

Fifth Lenten Service March 30, 2022

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

✝ ✝ ✝ ✝ ✝ ✝ ✝ ✝ ✝ ✝

Sunday Worship at 10:15 am

Sixth Lenten Service April 6, 2022

Sunday School & Bible Study 9am

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

Wednesday Service at 7pm

Ladies Bible Fellowship Mondays at 6:30pm

Maundy Thursday Communion 7 p.m., April 14

Saturday, March 23 Game Night at 4pm

Good Friday Tenebrae 7 p.m., April 15

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

Everyone is Welcome!

Easter Breakfast 8 a.m., April 17

Weekend Masses:

Saturday: 4 PM (Vigil)

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

Daily Masses:

Monday—Friday: 6:15 and 8:15 AM

Saturday: 8:15 AM

Visitation Catholic Church 779 S. York Street Elmhurst, IL

630�834�6700

www.visitationparish.org

Confessions:

Saturday: 3�3:45PM

Sunday: 5�5:45 PM

Adoration:

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

All services are live streamed. SaintTimothy.org

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

Stations of the Cross:

Fridays during Lent at 7 PM 451772

Nearly 9 in 10 state-level primaries give voters no choice in candidates

Data analysis shows March 19 primary is least competitive in at least 2 decades

By Andrew Adams CAPITOL NEWS ILLINOIS

On March 19, voting will conclude in primary contests for hundreds of seats in the Illinois legislature and in the state’s court system. But most of those contests are uncompetitive.

Statewide, 88 percent of judicial and state legislative primaries feature either a single candidate or no one running at all. This is the highest number of uncompetitive primaries for those seats in at least 20 years, according to a Capitol News Illinois analysis of data going back to 2004.

The number of primaries with no candidates running at all is similar to years past, about 33 percent. But the number of primaries with a single person running has jumped to 55 percent, from 46 percent in 2020.

John Shaw, director of the Paul Simon Public Policy Institute, said Illinois’ primary participation mirrors a national trend and is partially stoked by growing political polarization and state redistricting practices. The state process for drawing legislative districts is a partisan one by law, meaning many districts have been drawn in a way that favors one party over the other.

While that’s made primaries increasingly important in districts that lean heavily in favor of one party over the other, it’s also helped reinforce a trend of parties choosing not to run candidates in districts that were not drawn in their favor.

“The only battle is the primary,” Shaw, a former congressional reporter, told Capitol News Illinois.

Shaw said the expectation of candidates to work across the aisle has decreased in recent decades, meaning that parties lean into ideology more.

“It is not good for governance when candidates run unopposed in a primary or general election,” Shaw said.

For about 65 percent of state legislative and judicial seats, only one party’s primary has any candidates running, with most of those primaries featuring a single candidate.

While many of those races will likely be uncompetitive in the general election as well, the number of contested seats could grow beyond what the primaries indicate via a political appointment process. The political parties have until June 3 to select a person to run on the party’s behalf in races where the primaries did not produce a winning candidate. That person would be chosen by local party officials, such as county board chairs in downstate Illinois or ward committees in Chicago.

“It’s not routine, but it’s not unheard of,” Illinois Board of Elections spokesperson Matt Dieterich said of the process.

Long-term trends

John Jackson, a professor at the Paul Simon Institute, said the stark divisions in party control are driven by party realignment and polarization, which have resulted in fewer candidates running on politically moderate platforms.

“That started nationally, then trickled down to state, even now to local,” he said.

Jackson, who works at an institute

founded by and named for a conservative Democratic senator, noted this trend only emerged in the past few decades.

“There used to be moderates in the Republican party and moderates in the Democratic party,” Jackson said. “They were much more heterogeneous than they are.”

In Illinois, that’s led to stark partisan divides that also fall squarely along urban-rural lines. The city of Chicago remains the center of Democratic power in a democratically controlled state. Republicans have few primary candidates in the city and no serious challengers to most Democrats running.

Rural Illinois, meanwhile, remains almost unrepresented by the state’s Democratic party in the legislature or on the bench, with few Democratic candidates filing to run on rural primary ballots.

Only one legislative seat is competitive for both Democrats and Republicans: the 76th House District. This district contains most of the city of DeKalb as well as stretches of DeKalb, LaSalle and Bureau counties. The district’s current representative, Rep. Lance Yednock, D-Ottawa, is not running for reelection, and two Republicans and three Democrats are vying to replace him.

The legislative primaries that have drawn the most candidates include two four-way Democratic contests in the Chicago area. The primary for the 20th Senate District in Chicago, a seat currently held by Sen. Natalie Toro, D-Chicago, is Toro’s first senate race.

She was appointed to the seat last summer to fill out the remainder of former Sen. Cristina Pacione-Zayas’ term after she resigned to take a position with the city of Chicago.

In the House, the south suburban 79th District also features four Democrats vying for the seat. The district has been represented by a Republican since 2016 and is currently held by Rep. Jackie Haas, R-Kankakee.

The 53rd Senate District Republican primary also drew four candidates. That seat is currently held by Sen. Tom Bennett, R-Gibson City, who is not running for reelection. He was appointed to the seat early last year after serving in the state House.

Judicial elections getting more attention, low competition

While there are primaries for 82 judicial positions across the state, about 85 percent of them feature either one or no candidate on the ballot. Just over half feature a single candidate across both major party primaries.

Part of this is due to the high number of races in Cook County, a very Democratic area which operates the second largest court system in the nation.

But the low number of interested candidates can be partially explained by shifting career goals among lawyers, according to Eizabeth Monkus, senior research attorney at the nonprofit judicial reform advocacy group Chicago Appleseed Center.

“People come into the profession with different goals than they used to,” Monkus said. Monkus noted that there

are more people interested in what she called “movement lawyering,” where a person furthers political and social goals through legal advocacy, rather than working as a trial lawyer or working on criminal cases.

“If you’re working to change the world, judges have less power to do that than you might expect,” Monkus said.

But judicial elections are important because of their impacts on a local, often personal, level, where Monkus said judges’ decisions can have a “long and lasting” impact.

Monkus noted that since she began working in judicial elections over a decade ago, people are more aware of judicial elections than they used to be, despite the relatively low number of candidates in any given race. She attributed that to increased voter interest, more campaigning in high-profile races and more thorough news coverage.

The most high-stakes judicial primary this year is the battle over one of the state’s Supreme Court seats from the 1st District in Cook County.

That race features Joy V. Cunningham running to keep the seat she was appointed to in 2022 against Jesse G. Reyes, an appellate court judge who also ran in 2020 in a heated seven-way primary for the seat currently held by P. Scott Neville. Reyes came in second in that race with 20.3 percent of the vote to Neville’s 26.2 percent.

As with most judicial races this year, it’s a one-party race at this point. No Republicans are currently running for the seat on the state’s highest court.

Illinois leads nation in overturned wrongful convictions but has one

of the lowest repayment structures

By Dilpreet Raju CAPITOL NEWS ILLINOIS

In December 2023, 57-year-old Brian Beals spent Christmas with his sister Pattilyn for the first time 35 years.

Beals was exonerated and freed from Robinson Correctional Center in southeastern Illinois on Dec. 13 after a Cook County circuit court judge vacated his conviction and dismissed charges against him.

“In that moment, I was just trying to process how this all happened,” Beals told Capitol News Illinois. “Prison erases your ability to have hope.”

In 1990, a jury convicted Beals of first-degree murder for a shooting that killed a 6-yearold boy and injured his mother in Chicago’s Englewood neighborhood. He maintained his innocence as he was sentenced to 80 years in prison—essentially the rest of his life.

But last year, new evidence presented by the Illinois Innocence Project prompted a reexamination of Beals’ case. A Judge found the assigned detective had a pattern of police misconduct, and newly enhanced photographic evidence showed Beals was likely the target, rather than the perpetrator, of gunfire.

Beals said he’s taking time to celebrate but is also now properly grieving family he lost while locked up.

“I’m now the second-oldest person in my nuclear family; it’s dramatically different,” Beals said. “I lost a brother, my mother, I lost my aunt, my uncle. They all passed away while I was incarcerated.”

But for those years he lost in prison, Beals’ exoneration doesn’t mean any automatic reimbursement from the state of Illinois. And the journey to get any sort of restitution for his decades of wrongful imprisonment is complicated, and one Beals believes is unfair.

Because of the way the system is structured, Beals’ potential compensation essentially stopped accruing after he served 14 years. A new bill in the General Assembly would seek to remove the roughly $200,000 cap on payments to exonerees that maxes out at the 14-year mark, replacing it with a payout of $50,000 per year, capped at just over $2 million.

Illinois’ compensation practices

The path for most exonerees to find some version of justice travels through the Illinois Court of Claims, where Illinoisans can file claims to recover damages against a state agency or employee. Claimants seeking money for a wrongful conviction must first obtain a certificate of innocence from the circuit court in which they were convicted; something Beals’ lawyers say they see no major challenges in obtaining.

It’s a process that more people are undertaking in Illinois than in any other state in the nation. Illinois leads the U.S. in wrongful convictions, with 531 exonerees on record at the National Registry of Exonerations, which is managed by multiple universities and is the

Ever wanted to master your short game? Or take up painting? Or simply explore nature? At Beacon Hill, we take care of the day-to-day, so you can always look forward to tomorrow. Discover your next home in a senior living community full of open doors.

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. Helps little firms

4. Political action committee

7. Allowed

12. Olivia Colman played one

15. Open

16. He had a notable lamp

18. Promotional material

19. Domesticated animal

20. Larry and Curly’s buddy

21. The best ever

24. TV network

27. Checked for

30. Dry or withered

31. Expression of annoyance

33. Dash

34. Fifth note of a major scale

35. A secret clique

37. Partner to cheese

39. __ school: where to learn healing

41. City in ancient Syria

42. Gasteyer and de Armas are two

44. Established practice

47. Thanksgiving side dish

48. District in Peru

49. It’s becoming more prevalent

50. State in India

52. Measure of illumination

53. Raised platform

56. Japanese warrior

61. R.L. Stevenson novel

63. Transitory

64. Advanced degree

65. Fiddler crabs

CLUES DOWN

1. Prevent from seeing

2. Czech city

3. __ and Andy, TV show

4. A young pig

5. Removed surgically

6. Covered with

7. Chest muscle (slang)

8. Nigerian City

9. Midway between south and east

10. A way to shut

11. Stop playing

12 Marshy places

13. Takes apart

14. Ten cents

17. A gesture of assent

22. Scent

23. Teletypewriter

24. General’s assistant (abbr.)

25. Hillside

26. Taxi driver

28. Semitic Sun god

29. Town in India

32. Traditional rhythmic pattern

36. Fugitives are on the __

CELEBRATION

CELTIC

CLOVER EMERALD

GAELIC

GOLD HARP

IRELAND

IRISH ISLAND

JIG

LEGEND LEPRECHAUN

SAINT SHAMROCK TRADITION

38. Type of dance

40. Two letters, one sound

43. Having a strong, pleasant taste

44. Golf score

45. Mayhem

46. Drenched

51. River in northeastern Asia

54. Drug to treat anxiety (abbr.)

55. Part-time employee

56. A very large body of water

57. Aboriginal people of Japan

58. Millisecond

59. Forearm bone

60. Subway dweller

62. Royal Mail

New study finds Extension offices have vital role in fight against growing number of tick bites

A tick bite can happen anywhere: a park, your backyard, a farm field. The uncertainty can be scary. Do you pull it out? How? What do you do with the tick? What if you get sick?

A call, email, or visit to the local University of Illinois Extension office can help provide some peace of mind. New research from a multi-department team of university scientists explored the role Illinois Extension has in educating communities about ticks and preventing risky encounters.

Once uncommon in the Midwest, deer ticks, American dog ticks, lone star ticks and others are now found across Illinois and tick-borne diseases such as Lyme disease, Rocky Mountain spotted fever, anaplasmosis, and babesiosis are on the rise. Cases of alpha-gal syndrome, a red meat allergy, have also increased. Those who spend a lot of time outdoors, either for work or recreation, have a higher risk of being bitten.

As a land-grant institution, part of the university’s mission is to share research-based information with communities through programs led by Extension educators and staff who are based in county offices and regional research centers. This puts Extension staff in a unique position to provide tick prevention education.

“Many people are used to coming to an Extension office with a question about plants or insects, and Extension is often a primary source of information about ticks in rural communities and for farm -

ers,” said Chris Evans, forestry Extension and research specialist and participating researcher.

The project began with a survey of agriculture workers about their tick exposure and awareness. Then, the research team assessed Extension staff and volunteer knowledge and practices both before and after providing training on tick identification, diseases, and prevention.

“By assessing the perceptions of Extension staff in Illinois, we identified gaps in their knowledge and then provided continuing education on ticks that empowers them to engage confidently with their communities on this critical issue,” said Sulagna Chakraborty, a postdoctoral research associate in the department of veterinary clinical medicine at University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign and lead researcher for the project.

After taking the course, staff and volunteers knew more about tick bite prevention measures, tick identification, and diseases. They also reported being more confident in their ability to talk with the public about ticks. The course training videos are available to watch online.

Tick bite prevention and care

Tick bite prevention:

When outdoors in tall grass or wooded areas, wear light-colored long pants and long-sleeved shirts. Tuck pant legs into boots. Use an insect repellent containing DEET or picaridin on exposed skin. Spray clothes and gear with permethrin, a product that repels ticks. Inspect

DuPage County announces 2024 scholarship program

DuPage County is offering college and occupational training scholarships for low-income individuals with high academic potential.

The Community Services Block Grant scholarship supplements the cost of tuition, books, supplies and other school-related items for a semester or a quarter to offset the student’s needs. This scholarship is funded and designed in cooperation with the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity.

Applicants are required to provide proof of DuPage County residency, gross household income for the past 30 days, and information about members living in the household. Income for the household must be at or below 200 percent of the federal poverty level. Applicants must also include a 500-word original essay or personal statement, official school transcripts, two letters of recommendation, a Financial Aid Audit (financial aid award letter) and proof of enrollment in an accredited Illinois institution.

yourself thoroughly after time outdoors for ticks.

Land managers can mow tall grasses, conduct controlled burns, and remove invasive species to remove tick habitats.

Use appropriate tick repellant for pets and companion animals and check them for ticks. Livestock should also be regularly checked for ticks and consult with a veterinarian about anti-tick repellants.

If bitten by a tick:

Use tweezers to grasp the tick close to the skin and remove it. Wash the area with disinfectant.

Take a photo of the tick and store it in a container in the freezer.

Contact your local Extension office for help with identification and more information.

Follow up with a physician if symptoms of tickborne disease oc -

Your

The scholarship awards will vary from $500 to $2,500, and special consideration is given to students interested in high-technology fields or other occupations in emerging fields. Past winners have included:

• A Lombard resident continuing Computer Information Technology studies at the College of DuPage;

• A Naperville mother and an Addison mom, each returning to school to study nursing at Chamberlain University;

• A recent West Chicago high school graduate majoring in Social Work at Loyola University.

Applications are available at the DuPage County Department of Community Services, 421 N. County Farm Road, Wheaton, or online at https://www.dupagecounty.gov/ scholarship. Completed applications and support documents must be received by 4:30 p.m. May 3.

For more information, contact the DuPage County Department of Community Services at (630) 4076500, or call the toll-free number at (800) 942-9412.

TTY access is available at (630) 407-6502.

cur. Find more information about ticks and tick-borne diseases on the I-TICK and Illinois Department of Public Health websites.

The study, “Assessing knowledge gaps and empowering Extension workers in Illinois with information on ticks and tickborne diseases through KAP surveys,” is published in Heliyon [DOI: 10.1016/j. heliyon.2024.e25789]. Authors include Sulagna Chakraborty, Heather Kopsco, Chris Evans, Nohra E Mateus-Pinilla, and Rebecca Lee Smith.

The research project was a collaboration between University of Illinois Extension and the Department of Pathobiology in the College of Veterinary Medicine, the Wildlife Veterinary Epidemiology Laboratory with the Illinois Natu -

ral History Survey and the Program in Ecology, Evolution & Conservation Biology in the School of Integrative Biology. The project was funded by Illinois Extension and the College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences, with financial support from the Office of the Provost Investment for Growth Program.

Extension collaboration grants connect campus-based researchers and field staff to work on projects that will improve the quality of life of Illinois residents in the critical areas of food, economy, environment, community, and health.

Sources: Sulagna Chakraborty, postdoctoral research associate, department of veterinary clinical medicine; and Chris Evans, forestry Extension and research specialist.

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Girls flag football to debut as an IHSA sport in the fall of 2024

Willowbrook will join over 100 other schools to compete in the inaugural state series

The Illinois High School Association (IHSA) recently announced that girls flag football is now a sanctioned sport in the state.

According to the IHSA, girls flag football will be the latest sport to debut an IHSA state series, and the association will conduct its inaugural post-season in the sport later this year, with an IHSA state champion being crowned in the fall of 2024.

The inaugural IHSA girls flag football state finals will take place on Friday and Saturday, Oct. 18-19, 2024.

“The addition of girls flag football furthers the IHSA mission of creating participation opportunities for high school students in Illinois,” said IHSA Executive Director Craig Anderson. “The sport has experienced significant growth in a short amount of time, and our member schools are excited to see it become an IHSA sport.”

Willowbrook High School formed its girls flag football program two years ago. The Warriors delivered successful campaigns in each of their first two seasons.

The Chicago Public League and the Chicago Bears joined together to host state championship events at the Bears’ Halas Hall facility in 2022 and 2023. The Warriors won the 2022 state title. They defeated Chicago’s Taft High School 20-0 in the championship game in October 2022 to complete their inaugural season with a perfect 9-0 record.

Willowbrook’s 2023 team advanced to the semifinals of the state event at Halas Hall in Lake Forest. After losing in the semifinal round, the Warriors defeated Guilford High School of Rockford to win the event’s third-place trophy.

The IHSA Board of Directors approved the girls flag football state series during their regularly scheduled meeting on Feb. 5. The IHSA will offer a state series in 40 total sports and activities during the 2024-25 school year.

The IHSA related that it has commitments from over 100 schools to participate in the inaugural girls flag football state series in 2024, while nearly 40 other schools have expressed that they anticipate fielding a team in 2025.

during last month’s National Football Foundation Awards ceremony at the Bears’ Halas Hall

Lake Forest. This is the first year the award has been presented. Anderlik was one of three recipients of the scholarship. The catalyst for the award was the Bears’ 2023 Inspire Change Changemaker Award that was given to Juliana Zavala for her partnership with the Bears on girls flag football. Zavala, the senior manager of elementary sports for Chicago Public Schools, was awarded $10,000 to give to a cause of her choice. Together with the Bears, she decided to create the Changemaker Scholarship. The Bears added another $5,000, so three student-athletes could be named. Zavala and Gustavo Silva, who is the manager of youth and high school football for the Bears, selected three young ladies based on their experiences and background working with girls flag football since it started in the state in 2021. One photo shows (left to right) Zavala, Anderlik and Silva at last month’s ceremony at Halas Hall. Another photo shows Anderlik (No. 1) in action during the Warriors’ 2023 season. The Chicago Public League and the Chicago Bears hosted state championship events in girls flag football in 2022 and 2023. Anderlik led the Warriors to the 2022 state title. She helped Willowbrook to the third-place trophy in the 2023 state event at Halas Hall. In February, the Illinois High School Association (IHSA) announced that girls flag football is now a sanctioned sport in the state. The inaugural IHSA state series in girls flag football will take place in the fall of 2024.

Warriors finish fourth at the Bud Swanson Invite McBride earns a victory in the high jump

The Willowbrook girls track and field team earned a fourth-place finish in Friday’s Bud Swanson Invitational at Glenbard North High School in Carol Stream.

Naperville North won the title in the eight-team indoor invite with its firstplace total of 129 points. Glenbard North placed second with 97 points, while St. Charles North claimed third with 90 points.

Willowbrook posted a fourth-place total of 89 points. Addison Trail landed in fifth place with 48 points.

Senior Mia McBride delivered a first-place performance for the Warriors in the high jump. McBride cleared 4 feet, 11¾ inches in her best

jump of the invite. She also placed second in the pole vault, clearing 8 feet in her best attempt.

McBride turned in a fifth-place effort in the triple jump. She covered 31 feet, 2¾ inches in her best jump of the day.

McBride also turned in a ninthplace time of 10.51 seconds in the 55-meter hurdles.

Willowbrook freshman McKenzie Edison ran to a pair of second-place finishes in Friday’s meet. Edison sprinted to one of those second-place finishes in the 55-meter dash, which she completed in 7.57 seconds. She also placed second in the 200-meter dash, which she finished in 27.66 seconds.

Junior Olivia Gwaltney of the Warriors finished just behind Edison in the 55-meter dash. Gwaltney completed the race in a third-place time of 7.61 seconds.

Willowbrook sophomore Mariangela Popoca finished second in the 3,200-meter run at Friday’s invite at Glenbard North. Popoca finished the race in 13 minutes, 4.19 seconds.

Junior Holly Harris provided the Warriors with a third-place finish in the 800-meter run, which she completed in 2 minutes, 38.03 seconds. Junior Molly Brown of Willowbrook finished seventh in the same event, which she

SUBMITTED PHOTO/CHRIS FOX FILE PHOTO Rock Valley Publishing Willowbrook High School senior Emma Anderlik was recently named a recipient of the Chicago Bears’ Girls Flag Football Changemaker Scholarship. Anderlik, who is a Lombard resident, was recognized

in

Weder wins high jump; Royal prevails in triple jump; Skibbie races to victory in 1,600-meter run

Willowbrook’s boys track and field team finished second in the standings of Saturday’s Raptor Last Chance Invite at Rich Township High School in Richton Park.

Lincoln-Way West won the title at the nine-team indoor invite with its score of 166 points. Willowbrook compiled a second-place total of 147 points. Thornton Township High School placed third with 94 points.

The Warriors’ individual champions in Saturday’s invite included junior Jake Skibbie, who raced to a victory in the 1,600-meter run. Skibbie finished the race in a winning time of 4 minutes, 50.84 seconds. He edged his teammate—senior Declan Abercrombie—who produced a second-place time of 4 minutes, 53.08 seconds.

Senior Evan Weder of Willowbrook delivered a first-place effort in the high jump at Saturday’s invite. Weder

cleared 6 feet and ¾ of an inch in his best jump of the day. Sophomore Otis Powell of the Warriors finished third in the high jump. Powell cleared 5 feet, 9 inches at the invite.

Willowbrook junior Jaden Royal sailed to a first-place finish in the triple jump on Saturday. Royal traveled 42 feet, 1 inch on his best jump of the invite. Powell landed in second place in the triple jump. His finest jump of the day covered 40 feet, 11¼ inches.

The Warriors won a pair or relay races at Saturday’s meet. Willowbrook’s foursome of Weder, senior Liam Moran, senior Samuel McNeilly and junior Matt Orlowski won the 4 x 400-meter relay in a winning time of 3 minutes, 38.64 seconds.

McNeilly teamed with Skibbie, junior Kasen Blain and sophomore Evan Haworth to win the 4 x 800-meter relay in a first-place time of 8 minutes,

35.78 seconds.

Blain contributed a third-place finishing time of 2 minutes, 6.93 seconds in the 800-meter run. Senior Alex Perry of Willowbrook turned in an eighthplace time of 2 minutes, 26.63 seconds in the same event.

Junior Adriano Quintero and sophomore Miteku Branch provided the Warriors with top-five finishes in the 3,200-meter run. Quintero completed the race in a third-place time of 10 minutes, 33.37 seconds. Branch delivered a fourth-place time of 10 minutes, 43.8 seconds.

Weder posted a second-place time of 54.64 seconds in the 400-meter run. Freshman Jorge Rosales of the Warriors finished fourth in the 400-meter run, which he completed in 55.53 seconds.

Willowbrook sophomore Hayden Roscoe completed the 60-meter hur-

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dles in a seventh-place time of 10.12 seconds. Sophomore Lukas Sanchez of the Warriors finished the race in a ninth-place time of 11.12 seconds.

The Warriors’ 4 x 200-meter relay team of Powell, senior Joe Hanson, junior Jordan Pate and junior Jaylin Miller raced to a second-place finish. The foursome completed the race in 1 minute, 36.08 seconds.

Two Warriors—junior Liam McBride and sophomore Anthony Leo— finished third and fourth, respectively,

• Warriors

covered in 2:47.07.

in the pole vault. McBride and Leo both cleared 8 feet, 6 inches, during Saturday’s invite.

Pate contributed a third-place finish in the long jump; his best attempt of the invite covered 20 feet, 6 inches. Senior Noah Boyd of the Warriors placed fifth in the long jump. He traveled 19 feet, 8¼ inches in his best jump of the day.

The Warriors will battle in this week’s West Suburban Gold Conference Indoor Meet at Proviso West High School.

(Continued from page 16)

Junior Elena Bullivant of the Warriors finished seventh in the 400-meter run, which she completed in 1 minute, 7.23 seconds. Freshman Grace Mamolella of Willowbrook finished the 1,600-meter run in a 10th-place time of 6 minutes, 19.18 seconds.

The Warriors’ 4 x 400-meter relay team of Bullivant, Harris, junior Camryn Dooley and junior Malin Meeker ran to a second-place finish. The four juniors completed the relay in 4 minutes, 41.68 seconds.

Harris, Brown and Mamolella joined junior Amelie Ojeda to post a third-place time of 11 minutes, 1.44 seconds in the 4 x 800-meter relay.

Junior Mickenzie Alandy, Dooley, Edison and freshman Janell Adams teamed up to earn a third-place finish in the 4 x 160-meter relay. The foursome completed the relay in 1 minute, 28.95 seconds.

Alandy teamed with Dooley, Meeker and senior Iman Elcock to finish the 4 x 240-meter relay in a fifth-place time of 2 minutes, 33.01 seconds.

Junior Emily Hogan of the Warriors placed fourth in the shot put at Friday’s invitational. Her best effort of the day covered 31 feet, 7¼ inches. Junior Iryae’ Watts of Willowbrook finished sixth in the shot put. Her best throw of the invite carried 30 feet, 5 inches.

Alandy finished fourth in the long jump. She sailed 15 feet and ¼ of an inch in her best jump of the invite. Elcock, who covered 14 feet, 10¼ inches in her best jump of the day, posted a sixth-place finish.

Junior Grace Capps of the Warriors finished sixth in the high jump and seventh in the triple jump. She cleared 4 feet in her best effort of the day in the high jump. Her best attempt in the triple jump covered 29 feet, 6¾ inches.

Greaves sprints to a victory in the 55-meter hurdles

Addison Trail senior Brooke Greaves ran to a victory in the 55-meter hurdles, which she completed in a first-place time of 8.58 seconds. Senior Natalie Lupa of the Blazers finished fifth in the race with her time of 9.67 seconds.

Greaves and Lupa teamed up with senior Jackie Tecuanhuehue and freshman Dasia Birmingham to win the 4 x 160-meter relay. The foursome completed the race in 1 minute, 27.16 seconds.

Birmingham joined senior Aniyah Walker, sophomore Leyla Mahmu-

tovich and junior Sandra Olascoaga to post a third-place time of 4 minutes, 43.89 seconds in the 4 x 400-meter relay.

Olascoaga teamed with junior Katelyn Ford, freshman Danielle Marcinkowski and sophomore Zuzanna Kwasniewski to deliver a fourth-place time of 11 minutes, 7.41 seconds in the 4 x 800-meter relay.

Kwasniewski ran to a third-place finish in the 1,600-meter run, which she completed in 5 minutes, 51.45 seconds.

Senior Monserat Abarca of the Blazers earned a fourth-place finish in the 3,200-meter run, which she completed in 14 minutes, 9.03 seconds.

Ford posted a fifth-place time of 2 minutes, 39.68 seconds in the 800-meter run.

The Warriors and Blazers will both compete in this week’s West Suburban Gold Conference Indoor Meet at Morton High School’s west campus.

LEGAL NOTICES

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 IS HEREBY GIVEN that a Meeting of the Community Development Commission of the Village of Bensenville, DuPage and Cook Counties, will be held on Tuesday, April 2, 2024 at 6:30 P.M, at which a Public Hearing will be held to review case No. 2024 – 06 to consider a request for:

Special Use Permit, Motor Vehicle Repair and/or Service Municipal Code 10 – 7 – 2 – 1

At 211 Beeline Drive Unit 1 is an existing I-2 General Industrial District. The Public Hearing will be held in the Village Board Room at Village Hall, 12. S. Center Street, Bensenville.

The Legal Description is as follows:

PARCEL 1:

THE WEST 234.18 FEET LYING SOUTH OF A LINE DRAWN AT RIGHT ANGLE TO THE WEST LINE THEREOF, THROUGH A POINT 90.02 FEET NORTH OF THE SOUTHWEST CORNER THEREOF LOT 3 (EXCEPT THE SOTUH 33 FEET THEREOF) IN MOHAWK ACRES, A SUBDIVISION IN THE SOUTHEAST QUARTER OF SECTION 11, TOWNSHIP 40 NORTH, RANGE 11, EAST OF THE THIRD PRINCIPAL MERIDIAN, ACCORDING TO THE PLAT THEREOF RECORDED OCTOBER 17, 1934 AS DOCUMENT 350561, IN DUPAGE COUNTY, ILLINOIS.

PARCEL 2:

EASEMENT FOR THE BENEFIT OF PARCEL 1 FOR INGRESS AND EGRESS AS SET FORTH IN THE DECLARATION

RECORDED AS DOCUMENT R72-74496 AND SHOWN IN THE PLAT OF SUBDIVISION AFORESAID, DUPAGE COUNTY, ILLINOIS.

Commonly known as 211 Beeline Drive Unit 1, Bensenville, Illinois 60106.

Partner Carriers, Inc., 211 Beeline Dr 1, Bensenville, IL 60106 is the owner and Northside Automotive of 4535 N Kedzie Ave, Chicago, 60625 the applicant for the subject property.

Any individual with a disability requiring a reasonable accommodation in order to participate in any public meeting held under the authority of the Village of Bensenville should contact the Village Clerk, Village of Bensenville, 12 S. Center St., Bensenville, IL 60106, (630) 766-8200, at least three (3) days in advance of the meeting.

Applicant’s application and supporting documentation may be examined by any interested parties in the office of the Community and Economic Development Department, Monday through Friday, in the Village Hall, 12 South Center Street, Bensenville, IL 60106. All interested parties may attend the Public Hearing and be heard. A link for electronic viewing will be posted on the Village website at least 48 hours prior to the meeting date. Written comments mailed to the Village Hall, and online comments submitted on the Village website, will be accepted by the Community and Economic Development Department through April 2, 2024 until 5:00 PM.

Office of the Village Clerk Village of Bensenville (Published in the Addison Independent, Bensenville Independent & Villa Park Review March 14, 2024) 452402

LEGAL NOTICE/PUBLIC NOTICE

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that a Meeting of the Community Development Commission of the Village of Bensenville, DuPage and Cook Counties, will be held on Tuesday, April 2, 2024 at 6:30 P.M, at which a Public Hearing will be held to review case No. 2024 – 07 to consider a request for:

Variation, Fence in the Corner Side Yard Municipal Code 10 – 7 – 4C – 7A

At 352 S Church Road is an existing R-3 Single-Unit Dwelling District. The Public Hearing will be held in the Village Board

LEGAL NOTICES

Room at Village Hall, 12 S. Center Street, Bensenville.

The Legal Description is as follows:

LOT 3 IN VOLK BROTHERS SECOND ADDITION TO EDGEWOOD, IN THE NORTHEAST QUARTER OF SECTION 22, AND THE NORTHWEST QUARTER OF SECTION 3, TOWNSHIP 40 NORTH, RANGE 11, EAST OF THE THIRD PRINCIPAL MERIDIAN, ACCORDING TO THE PLAT THEREOF RECORDED MAY 7, 1926, AS DOCUMENT 213086, IN DUPAGE COUNTY, ILLINOIS.

Commonly known as 352 S. Church Road, Bensenville, Illinois 60106.

Jay Adkins of 352 S. Church Road, Bensenville, Illinois 60106 is the owner and the applicant for the subject property.

Any individual with a disability requiring a reasonable accommodation in order to participate in any public meeting held under the authority of the Village of Bensenville should contact the Village Clerk, Village of Bensenville, 12 S. Center St., Bensenville, IL 60106, (630) 766-8200, at least three (3) days in advance of the meeting.

Applicant’s application and supporting documentation may be examined by any interested parties in the office of the Community and Economic Development Department, Monday through Friday, in the Village Hall, 12 South Center Street, Bensenville, IL 60106. All interested parties may attend the Public Hearing and be heard. A link for electronic viewing will be posted on the Village website at least 48 hours prior to the meeting date. Written comments mailed to the Village Hall, and online comments submitted on the Village website, will be accepted by the Community and Economic Development Department through April 2, 2024 until 5:00 PM.

Office of the Village Clerk Village of Bensenville

(Published in the Addison Independent, Bensenville Independent & Villa Park Review March 14, 2024)

452404

LEGAL NOTICE/PUBLIC NOTICE NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that a Meeting of the Community Development Commission of the Village of Bensenville, DuPage and Cook Counties, will be held on Tuesday, April 2, 2024 at 6:30 P.M, at which a Public Hearing will be held to review case No. 2024 – 08 to consider a request for:

Special Use Permit, Day Care Center Municipal Code 10 – 7 – 2 – 1

At 1347 Irving Park Road is an existing C-2 Commercial District. The Public Hearing will be held in the Village Board Room at Village Hall, 12. S. Center Street, Bensenville.

The Legal Description is as follows:

LOTS 1 AND 2 IN BEN DALE RESUBDIVISION OF LOTS 6, 7, 8, 9 AND 10 AND THE SOUTH ½ OF VACATED ALLEY NORTH OF AND ADJOINING SAID

LOTS IN BLOCK 47 OF THE FIRST ADDITION TO PERCY WILSON’S IRVING PARK MANOR, BEING A SUBDIVISION IN SECTIONS 10, 11, 14 AND 15, TOWNSHIP 40 NORTH, RANGE 11, EAST OF THE THIRD PRINCIPAL MERIDIAN, ACCORDING TO THE PLAT OF SAID SUBDICISION RECORDED MAY 24, 1988 AS DOCUMENT R88-53077, IN DUPAGE COUNTY, ILLINOIS.

Commonly known as 1347 W. Irving Park Road, Bensenville, IL 60106

De Astis Partners Inc., LLC, 123 N Central Avenue, Wood Dale, Illinois, 60191 is the owner of the subject property and Rocio Olvera of Primavera School, 646 W Belden Avenue, Elmhurst, Illinois, 60126 is the applicant for the subject property.

Any individual with a disability requiring a reasonable accommodation in order to participate in any public meeting held under the authority of the Village of Bensenville should contact the Village Clerk, Village of Bensenville, 12 S. Center St., Bensenville, IL 60106, (630) 766-8200, at least three (3) days in advance of the meeting.

Applicant’s application and support-

ing documentation may be examined by any interested parties in the office of the Community and Economic Development Department, Monday through Friday, in the Village Hall, 12 South Center Street, Bensenville, IL 60106. All interested parties may attend the Public Hearing and be heard. A link for electronic viewing will be posted on the Village website at least 48 hours prior to the meeting date. Written comments mailed to the Village Hall, and online comments submitted on the Village website, will be accepted by the Community and Economic Development Department through April 2, 2024 until 5:00 PM.

Office of the Village Clerk Village of Bensenville

(Published in the Addison Independent, Bensenville Independent & Villa Park Review March 14, 2024) 452405

LEGAL NOTICE/PUBLIC NOTICE

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that a Meeting of the Community Development Commission of the Village of Bensenville, DuPage and Cook Counties, will be held on Tuesday, April 2, 2024 at 6:30 P.M, at which a Public Hearing will be held to review case No. 2024 – 09 to consider a request for:

Special Use Permit, Day Care Center Municipal Code 10 – 7 – 2 – 1

At 2 S Addison Street is an existing C-1 Downtown Mixed-Use District. The Public Hearing will be held in the Village Board Room at Village Hall, 12. S. Center Street, Bensenville.

The Legal Description is as follows:

PARCEL ONE:

THAT PART OF LOT 1 DESCRIBED AS FOLLOWS: COMMENCING AT THE NORTHEAST CORNER OF SAID LOT 1, THENCE SOUTH ALONG THE EAST LINE OF SAID LOT, 23.76 FEET; THENCE WEST TO A POINT IN THE WEST LINE OF SAID LOT 1, 58.69 FEET SOUTH OF THE NORTHWEST CORNER OF SAID LOT; THENCE NORTH ALONG THE WEST LINE OF SAID LOT 58.69 FEET TO THE NORTHWEST CORNER THEREFORE, BEING ALSO THE SOUTH LINE OF THE RIGHT-OFWAY OF THE CHICAGO, MILWAUKEE, ST. PAUL, AND PACIFIC RAILROAD; THENCE SOUTHERLY ALONG THE NORTHERLY LINE OF SAID LOT AND SOUTHERLY LINE OF THE RIGHT-OFWAY OF SAID RAILROAD, 173.21 FEET TO THE NORTHEAST CORNER OF SAID LOT AND THE PLACE OF BEGINNING, IN BLOCK 4 IN TIOGA, A SUBDIVISION OF PART OF THE SOUTHEAST QUARTER OF THE NORTHEAST QUARTER AND PART OF THE NORTHEAST QUARTER OF THE SOUTHEAST QUARTER OF SECTION 14, TOWNSHIP 40 NORTH, RANGE 11, EAST OF THE THIRD PRINCIPAL MERIDIAN, ACCORDING TO THE PLAT THEREOF RECORDED OCTOBER 24, 1873 AS DOCUMENT 17017, IN DUPAGE COUNTY, ILLINOIS.

PARCEL 2: THAT PART OF LOT 1 IN BLOCK 4 IN “TIOGA”, A SUBDIVISION IN THE SOUTHEAST QUARTER, OF THE NORTHEAST QUARTER AND THE NORTHEAST QUARTER OF THE SOUTHEAST QUARTER OF SECTION 14, TOWNSHIP 40 NORTH, RANGE 11, EAST OF THE THIRD PRINCIPAL MERIDIAN, DESCRIBED AS FOLLOWS: COMMENCING AT THE NORTHEAST CORNER OF SAID LOT 1; THENCE SOUTH ALONG THE EAST LINE OF SAID LOT 1, 23.75 FEET FOR A PLACE OF BEGINNING THENCE WEST TO A POINT IN THE WEST LINE OF SAID LOT 50.00 FEET SOUTH OF THE NORTHWEST CORNER THEREOF; THENCE SOUTH ALONG THE WEST LINE OF SAID LOT 100,00 FEET: THENCE EAST TO THE SOUTH EAST.

Commonly known as 2-4 S Addison Street, Bensenville, IL 60106.

Firat Ahmet Ergun & Sirac Ergun, 1320

Elliot St, Park Ridge, Illinois, 60068 are the owners of the subject property and Wajahat Macci of Play Minds Therapy of Bensenville, 211 E Lake Street, STE 1S, Addison, IL 60101 is the applicant for the subject property.

Any individual with a disability requiring a reasonable accommodation in order to participate in any public meeting held under the authority of the Village of Bensenville should contact the Village Clerk, Village of Bensenville, 12 S. Center St., Bensenville, IL 60106, (630) 766-8200, at least three (3) days in advance of the meeting.

Applicant’s application and supporting documentation may be examined by any interested parties in the office of the Community and Economic Development Department, Monday through Friday, in the Village Hall, 12 South Center Street, Bensenville, IL 60106. All interested parties may attend the Public Hearing and be heard. A link for electronic viewing will be posted on the Village website at least 48 hours prior to the meeting date. Written comments mailed to the Village Hall, and online comments submitted on the Village website, will be accepted by the Community and Economic Development Department through April 2, 2024 until 5:00 PM.

Office of the Village Clerk Village of Bensenville

(Published in the Addison Independent, Bensenville Independent & Villa Park Review March 14, 2024) 452406

LEGAL NOTICE/PUBLIC NOTICE NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that a Meeting of the Community Development Commission of the Village of Bensenville, DuPage and Cook Counties, will be held on Tuesday, April 2, 2024 at 6:30 P.M., at which a Public Hearing will be held to review case No. 2024 – 10 to consider a request for:

Zoning Text Amendments

Municipal Code Section 10 – 7 – 4, Accessory Structures and Uses, Electric Vehicle Charging Stations; and Municipal Code Section 10 – 11 – 2, Definitions.

The proposed Text Amendments to the Village Code are to amend Title 10 (Zoning Ordinance), Chapter 7 (Uses) & Chapter 11 (Definitions).

The Public Hearing will be held in the Village Board Room at Village Hall, 12 S. Center Street, Bensenville.

The Zoning Text Amendments are being sought by the Village Board.

Any individual with a disability requiring a reasonable accommodation in order to participate in any public meeting held under the authority of the Village of Bensenville should contact the Village Clerk, Village of Bensenville, 12 S. Center St., Bensenville, Illinois 60106, (630) 766-8200, at least three (3) days in advance of the meeting.

Applicant’s application and supporting documentation may be examined by any interested parties in the office of the Community and Economic Development Department, Monday through Friday, in the Village Hall, 12 South Center Street, Bensenville, IL 60106. All interested parties may attend the Public Hearing and be heard. A link for electronic viewing will be posted on the Village website at least 48 hours prior to the meeting date. Written comments mailed to Village Hall, and online comments submitted on the Village website, will be accepted by the Community and Economic Development Department through April 2, 2024 until 5:00 P.M.

Office of the Village Clerk Village of Bensenville

With feds citing ‘extensive cooperation,’ judge gives ex-Sen. Terry Link

3 years’ probation

Lake County Democrat wore wire in helping convict a former State Rep. of bribery

By Hannah Meisel and Dilpreet Raju CAPITOL NEWS ILLINOIS

On an August day in 2019, then-Democratic state Sen. Terry Link stood outside of a suburban Wendy’s and solicited a bribe from his colleague in the Illinois House.

“What’s in it for me, though?” Link asked then-state Rep. Luis Arroyo, who’d asked to meet up to discuss a type of video gaming machine that Arroyo had been lobbying to legalize.

But Link—the two-decade veteran of the General Assembly and former poker buddy of then-state Sen. Barack Obama—was wearing a wire. He’d been acting as a cooperating witness after the feds accused him of illegally spending campaign money on personal expenses and filing false tax returns to cover it up. He wasn’t officially charged until August 2020 and pleaded guilty to the single count the following month.

Because of that cooperation, a federal judge last week handed Link a lenient sentence of three years’ probation, matching what prosecutors recommended last week. The feds had advised probation due to Link’s “extensive cooperation,” prosecutors wrote in a sentencing memorandum, and asked that he pay nearly $83,000 in restitution, which U.S. District Judge Mary Rowland ordered.

During the brief sentencing hearing at the Dirksen Federal Courthouse, the 76-year-old Link made a public apology. Speaking slowly and with a tremor borne of a neurological condition that has worsened since he left office in 2020, Link said he’d made a mistake and “did not intend to cheat the government.”

“I accept responsibility for what happened,” Link said tearfully. “Do I feel bad about it? I feel horrible about it.”

He went on to say he’d never been “an affluent person” and never would be, casting himself as a generous person.

“If I had a dollar in my pocket, I’d give you the dollar,” Link said. Rowland said she’d agreed to the government’s recommendation for probation and restitution, but she wondered aloud how to “send a message to the next generation” of public officials that corruption “is not how we do business.”

“While I appreciate your tax crime was not directly related to your duties, it’s a terrible message to hear that someone in public service is not paying their taxes,” Rowland said.

only national database tracking wrongful convictions.

Despite only having about 4 percent of the country’s population, Illinois is responsible for 16 percent of overturned wrongful convictions in the U.S. Over 90 percent of exonerees in Illinois are Black or Latino compared to the nationwide rate of 65 percent. In January, Illinois saw four more men exonerated – all charged with murder in Cook County.

But as the state is a national leader in wrongfully convicting people, it’s near the bottom of all states in reimbursing exonerees for the time they wrongfully served.

Illinois’ current pay structure allows the court of claims to award exonerees at their discretion up to a certain amount, limiting maximum payouts based on time served.

For exonerees who served less than five years in prison, the maximum payout, which has increased incrementally to adjust for inflation, is about $85,000. Those who served up to 14 years can receive around $170,000, and anyone who served more than 14 years is limited to a total of about $200,000.

For Beals, Illinois’ statute essentially dictates that the court of claims cannot reimburse him for the last two decades of his wrongful sentence, due to the 14-year cap. A maximum payout would equate to less than $6,000 per year spent in prison, well below even half of the federal poverty line

Beals said the current structure doesn’t provide justice.

“There needs to be more attention on this issue,” he said. “It’s not fair, obviously. You’re compensated less (per year) for the time you’re incarcerated.”

Josh Tepfer, a lawyer at the Exoneration Project, a legal group providing free aid to those claiming innocence, said he recently represented a man in a similar position as Beals.

“Francisco Benitez, my client, just

spent over 30 years in prison,” Tepfer said. “Now he can only get the same amount as someone who did 14 years, so that doesn’t make a lot of sense.”

For the 373 claimants that have already been compensated under state statute, Illinois has paid out average sums of about $112,000 per exoneree, according to the latest data compiled by Jeffrey Gutman, director of George Washington University Law School’s Public Justice Advocacy Clinic.

That comes to an average of $15,000 per year imprisoned, the second lowest amount per year of all states that have paid out statutory claims to date.

“The way that Illinois has done it has always been unfair to people who have been in prison the longest,” Gutman said.

Illinois’ proposed fix

Last year the Illinois House unanimously approved a measure that would increase statutory compensation for those who have been wrongfully convicted to $50,000 per year of wrongful imprisonment, maxing out at the $2 million cap that otherwise governs court of claims payouts. It would apply to all pending and future claims.

It was one of two bills regarding exoneration that cleared the House unanimously last year, but both are awaiting a committee assignment in the Senate. Those measures—House Bill 1015 and House Bill 1016 have since been combined into a single amendment to HB 1015. Capitol News Illinois was not able to schedule an interview with the bill’s Senate sponsors, including lead sponsor Sen. Elgie Sims, D-Chicago, despite numerous outreach attempts over several weeks.

The proposed amendment to HB 1015 offers partial-year reimbursement and $25,000 per year awaiting trial, and it indexes pay to increase with in-

(Continued from page 18)

In June, Link was the government’s star witness in the trial of Jimmy Weiss, a politically connected businessman charged with bribing both Link and Arroyo. Weiss had been pushing for the legalization of “sweepstakes machines,” a close cousin of the heavily regulated and taxed video gaming terminals found in bars, restaurants and standalone video gambling cafes across Illinois.

Arroyo is currently serving a 57-month prison sentence after eventually pleading guilty to both bribing Link and accepting bribes from Weiss, who’d been paying him to “lobby” for the machines beginning in 2018. But Weiss proceeded to trial and a jury convicted him of all seven counts of bribery and lying to the FBI. In the fall, he was sentenced to 66 months in prison.

On the stand, Link told the jury that he’d agreed to become a cooperating witness after being approached by the FBI about his taxes.

He was concise when a prosecutor asked him to explain his crime.

flation each year up to 5 percent.

Should it become law, about 40 exonerees would be eligible for an increased payout in addition to the roughly 20 state claims currently pending in the Illinois Court of Claims, according to the National Registry of Exonerations.

Gutman said while other states that have upped their pay structures have applied the changes retroactively, Illinois would face a unique challenge in doing so because almost 400 claimants have received compensation over the years.

Louisiana, which has almost 90 exonerees, changed its pay structure in 2022. The legislature addressed equity by allowing prior exonerees one year to apply for supplemental pay at the new rate.

A rigid $50,000 per year would not only be a significant change in pay but a shift of power from the court of claims. Under current law, the court of claims has discretion over the award, only up to the stated limits.

While Tepfer said the court of claims can be “often very generous” within the parameters of the law, it’s ultimately the statutory limits that make the current law unfair. He is supportive of the proposed change.

“It will up what they receive, and I think that’s warranted. I mean, $50,000, that’s a pretty small amount annually…that doesn’t even account for all the mental anguish and time away from family,” he said.

Lauren Kaeseberg, co-director of the Illinois Innocence Project and someone who represented Beals, said raising exoneree pay is about doing what is right. She and Beals spent a week in January in Springfield speaking to lawmakers about challenges exonerees face.

“The state is acknowledging that ‘We got this wrong and here is this amount of money that’s going to compensate you for the time that you were taken and held captive for all those years,’” Kaeseberg said. “We

“ The state is acknowledging that ‘We got this wrong and here is this amount of money that’s going to compensate you for the time that you were taken and held captive for all those years.’ We need to compensate people at an amount that is respectful and that acknowledges their worth.”

Lauren Kaeseberg, co-director of the Illinois Innocence Project

need to compensate people at an amount that is respectful and that acknowledges their worth.”

Other avenues

Those seeking compensation beyond what the court of claims can offer also have the right to sue in civil court. Likely due to the restrictive nature of Illinois’ compensation structure, 473 exonerees have filed civil claims for damages compared to 404 who have filed direct claims through state law.

Still, exonerees interested in receiving pay outside of the court of claims face a more onerous process that can drag on for years and requires a higher burden of proof. These suits usually take place in federal court and often focus on allegations of misconduct, rather than compensating exonerees for time unjust-

ly served. Awards are usually paid out by taxpayers through the parties named responsible, such as county or city police department. Some municipalities, including Chicago, have wrongful conviction insurance to cover parts of the payout.

But less than half of all U.S. plaintiffs who have been wrongfully convicted and sought pay have received any compensation, according to the National Registry of Exonerations.

In Illinois, civil suits have a far lower success rate than statutory claims. Most exonerees that seek pay from the court of claims receive it, but only about 30 percent of all Illinois exonerees who filed cases in civil court have won them.

Illinois faces a backlog with almost 279 pending wrongful conviction civil cases, nearly seven times more than the next closest state, New York at 41.

But with an average payout of more than $5.5 million, the 123 successful civil claimants in Illinois received millions of dollars beyond what the court of claims could pay out.

Brian Beals is still waiting to see the outcome of HB 1015 before making any claims of his own.

He should have no problems obtaining a certificate of innocence since the Cook County State Attorney’s Office issued a celebratory news release the day Beals was released. But Kaeseberg said that is not the same for all counties or cases. Some prosecutors, she said, would prefer to not have a case they litigated result in an incorrect verdict.

For now, Beals said he is trying to understand technology’s many advances but is happy to be spending time with family during what has been a “surreal” couple of months.

“I had three generations of family with me on Christmas Day and I’m very fortunate to have that experience, my first Christmas at home in 35 years,” Beals said. “I’m catching up.”

“Underreported my income tax,” Link said, adding that he did so “I wanna say (from) 2012 or 2013 to about 2016.”

Some of the money Link had illegally used from his campaign account went to help a longtime friend who had been in the throes of family and business problems, he said in June. But not all of it.

“I used some of it for gambling,”

Link admitted at the time, although it was not mentioned last week.

Link’s attorney did note last week that the friend to whom Link loaned money has since died, never having repaid the money.

After Arroyo’s arrest in late October 2019, Link falsely denied reports that he was the unnamed cooperating witness described in his colleague’s charging documents.

Earlier that year, Link had finally achieved his decades-long ambition to bring a casino to his native Waukegan as part of a long-fought expansion of Illinois’ gambling industry. Link got emotional on the Senate floor before his colleagues’ final vote to approve the massive piece of legislation.

The gambling expansion law, however, did not include any language about the sweepstakes machines, which operate in a legal gray area and have been neither outlawed nor regulated in Illinois.

Arroyo made a last-minute play to include the sweepstakes machines in the larger bill. But Link rebuffed him, testifying during trial last year that he’d told Arroyo to “get the f--- out of here” after his colleague approached him on the Senate floor.

A few months later, at the FBI’s behest, Link called Arroyo and apologized for blowing up at him in the waning days of legislative session. With the FBI listening in, Link suggested the two meet to talk about the sweepstakes machines.

When Link met with Arroyo at a Highland Park Wendy’s a couple weeks later, Weiss was in tow to explain his sweepstakes machine business and make the case for legalizing the devices. Link then asked Arroyo to step outside the restaurant to talk. Despite assuring him that it was “you and I talking,” Link was secretly wearing an FBI

recording device, with agents sitting in vehicles nearby taking photos of the interaction.

When Link asked what was in it for him, Arroyo responded that Weiss had been paying him as a consultant and implied Link could receive a similar payout. At a subsequent meeting, Arroyo gave Link a $2,500 check, which was to be the first in a series of monthly installments, saying “this is the jackpot.” Arroyo was arrested two months later.

In sentencing Link last week, Judge Rowland noted the bevy of corruption trials the federal courthouse has seen in recent years, which will continue this year with the trial of former Illinois House Speaker Michael Madigan.

She said Link’s case painted a picture of Springfield as a place where someone can walk up to an elected official and ask for a bill to be passed “and on a dime you could say, ‘What’s in it for me?’ and we’d be off to the races with a federal case?”

“That’s despicable,” Rowland said.

“ While I appreciate your tax crime was not directly related to your duties, it’s a terrible message to hear that someone in public service is not paying their taxes.”

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State commission says Illinois underfunds public universities by $1.4 billion

By Cole Longcor CaPitOL NEWS iLLiNOiS

A state commission created in 2021 has issued a new report calculating that public universities in Illinois are underfunded by approximately $1.4 billion.

The Commission on Equitable Public University Funding is made up of 34 members, including legislators, representatives from public universities, and members of advocacy organizations.

It found that dedicating an added $100 million to $135 million annually to public universities would allow the state to bridge the funding gap in 10-15 years.

The commission’s co-chair, Sen. Kimberly Lightford, D-Westchester, was among several of its members to outline its findings at a Capitol news conference last week.

“When institutions are underfunded, they are unable to provide the necessary resources and support to all students,” Lightford

said. “This perpetrates a cycle of inequalities, where those from affluent backgrounds have access to better education, and subsequently better opportunities, while others are left behind.”

Without state funding the financial burden has fallen on students.

Ralph Martire, the executive director at the left-leaning Center for Tax and Budget Accountability, said the amount of operational funding covered by the state has decreased from 72 percent covered in 2002 to 35 percent in 2021.

Martire said that as the cost to students goes up, college becomes less accessible. Lack of access to higher education perpetuates systemic issues such as income inequality.

“We are making higher ed more unaffordable for everyone in Illinois generally,” Martire, who served on the commission, said. “But in particular, for low-income families and families that have

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been marginalized for decades.”

Higher education has seen increased funding under the Pritzker administration, notably for the Monetary Award Program, or MAP grants. In the current fiscal year, the state allocated over $700 million in MAP funding, up from about $401 million when Pritzker took office in 2019. The state’s total higher education budget is just over $2.5 billion in the current fiscal year.

Commission co-chair Rep. Carol Ammons, D-Urbana, said that while investments including MAP have helped students and universities, more needs to be done.

“For decades, the state has used a system that largely provides resources based on the negotiations that happen across the board,” Ammons said. “But all institutions are not the same.”

Janice Jackson, CEO of Hope Chicago, said in an interview that the commission looked at student needs as well the support and funding that first generation, low-income, and minority students may need “not only to get in college, but more importantly to persist and complete college.”

The commission has been working to develop a formula to bridge

the gap in funding. By setting targets for each university and subtracting their established resources, the commission calculated the gap in funding for each public university. Public universities, including all sources of available funding, are currently at 68.5 percent funding adequacy collectively.

“The single most important driver of student success and of equity in higher education is in our control. We can control what we invest and how we invest it,” Robin Steans, a commission member and president of the education advocacy group Advance Illinois, said.

“And you may be wondering, why haven’t we done that before? And part of it is we didn’t have a roadmap. We do now.”

education.”

The K-12 model sets an individual funding adequacy target for each district and calls for an added $350 million in state funding each year. The bulk of that money is directed to districts that are furthest from the adequacy target.

The commission laid out three possible time frames for bringing districts closer to funding adequacy.

In the first, if the state increased funding by $135 million annually, or 12 percent, all public universities would be fully funded in 10 years.

If the state invested $100 million more annually, a 9 percent annual increase, all institutions would be fully funded in 15 years.

The commission looked at funding models from five states including Tennessee and California as well as Illinois’ K-12 Evidence-Based Funding model. The commission decided to base the higher education formula on the K-12 model.

“This may sound familiar, by the way, because this is what we did in K-12, to remarkable success to national acclaim,” Steans said. “It’s more complicated to do it in higher

If the state committed a 5 percent funding increase—or about $60 million each year—the statewide target would increase from 68.5 percent to 79 percent, according to the report.

Gov. JB Pritzker’s budget proposal for the upcoming fiscal year 2025 would increase public university funding by about $24.6 million.

The commission’s report will be part of subject matter hearings this week.

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