BI031623

Woman charged with leading police on high-speed chase

Berlin notes rise in incidents of fleeing, eluding

DuPage County State’s Attorney Robert Berlin and Illinois State Police Troop

15 Commander

Linda Mandat announced last week that bond had been set for a Sleepy Hollow woman accused of leading police on a high-speed chase.

Tianna Bryson, 23, appeared at a bond hearing where Judge Brian Telander set bond at $25,000 with 10 percent to apply.

Bryson is charged with one count of aggravated fleeing and eluding a police officer (Class 4 felony) and multiple misdemeanor and petty traffic offenses including two counts of speeding 35+ mph over the limit (Class A misdemeanor).

On Tuesday, March 7 at approximately 12:27 p.m., an Illinois State Trooper allegedly observed Bryson’s 2016 Volkswagen Jetta traveling 107 mph in a 60-mph zone westbound on I-88 in Naperville.

The trooper performed a traffic stop on the vehicle. It is alleged however, that as the trooper walked towards Bryson’s vehicle, she fled

the scene at a high rate of speed.

The trooper reinitiated the pursuit, during which Bryson allegedly reached speeds as high as 120 mph, was weaving in and out of traffic and at one time, drove on the shoulder of the road.

The trooper ultimately terminated the pursuit for safety reasons. Through the course of their work on this case, authorities identified Bryson as the driver of the vehicle. She turned herself in to authorities later that evening.

“The surge in recent months of motorists fleeing from police is of great concern as this type of behavior is extremely dangerous and poses a threat not only to the driver, but also puts the police officers involved and motoring public at great risk,” Berlin said.

“Thankfully, no innocent motorists or bystanders were injured or worse as a result of Ms. Bryson’s alleged actions. The message is simple: if you hear sirens and see flashing lights behind you, pull over. Leading police on a high-speed chase is not the answer and will only make matters worse.”

Bryson’s next court appearance is scheduled for April 4 for arraignment in front of Judge Telander.

Tianna Bryson

SUBMITTED PHOTO Bensenville Independent

IC Pastor, Very Reverend Thomas Paul, distributes ashes to an ICGS preschool student following Ash Wednesday Mass on Feb. 22.

District 88 takes part in AA Conference

Addison Trail, Willowbrook recognize Black History Month

On Friday, Feb. 24, Addison Trail hosted an African American Conference (AA Con) to recognize and celebrate Black History Month.

About 80 students from Addison Trail and Willowbrook high schools attended a session with six speakers, who discussed the importance of heritage, motivation, using your gifts, discipline and having a coach/mentor. They also met with a black author and had lunch in the auditorium that was decorated with items to celebrate Black History Month. Later, the students attended an awards ceremony to honor black staff members at Addison Trail, as well as seniors who are members of the school’s BEYOND Club.

BEYOND provides mentorship and academic support for black students to enable them to thrive holistically in high school and BEYOND.

BEYOND is led by Addison Trail student success coordinator VaLarie Humphrey, who also coordinated the conference.

“The goal of hosting AA Con was to help the students develop self-love and understand that the ceiling is really the floor of the next level –sometimes we forget we can make our dreams a reality,” she said.

I want the students to realize that no matter what happens, you can move beyond your past and your mistakes. I want them to be proud to be a part of District 88 and see that the district cares about them and has limitless opportunities to prepare them for ‘BEYOND’ high school.” Humphrey works to create a space for black students, but also wants them to know they are part of the Addison Trail community and belong. She added the conference might expand next year to include sessions for parents.

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ATHS CLARA ETHERIDGE PHOTO Rock Valley Publishing Taylor Musgrove (left) and Khari Blasingame speak during Addison Trail’s AA Con (African American Conference) on Friday, Feb. 24 to recognize and celebrate Black History Month. About 80 students from Addison Trail and Willowbrook attended the conference. Musgrove is a producer for TMZ, WGN News and ABC 7 Chicago. Blasingame is a fullback for the Chicago Bears.

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Black History Month

Black staff members at Willowbrook High School were honored on Friday, Feb. 24, when District 88 students took part in the African American Conference (AA Con) to recognize and celebrate Black History Month. The Conference was held at Addison Trail.

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ATHS CLARA ETHERIDGE PHOTOS Addison Independent

Pictured are Addison Trail seniors (from left): Serena Sheats, Malik Hopkins, Damarius Allen and Darius Calvin. As seniors in Addison Trail’s BEYOND Club, which provides mentorship and academic support for black students to enable them to thrive holistically in high school and BEYOND, they received a graduation stole as part of the school’s Black History Month celebration.

IndependenT

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Family Story Time with Yoga Bunny coming April 1

Learn basic yoga poses after egg hunt, followed by ‘Eggstravaganza’

Wood Street Fitness invites families to join in a premium, interactive mind-body storytelling session in conjunction with the Bensenville Park District’s annual Egg Hunt and Eggstravaganza at the Deer Grove Leisure Center (DGLC), 1000 W. Wood Street. Family Storytime with Yoga Bunny takes place 11 a.m. to noon Saturday, April 1.

“We invite families and children to relax and unwind with Yoga Bunny after the egg hunt,” said Wood Street

fitness supervisor Silvia Acevedo. “This approachable, sweet book is a fun way to introduce kids to child’s pose and other basic yoga moves.”

According to publisher Harper Collins, “Yoga Bunny helps readers wind down as they learn beginning yoga poses, from downward dog to tree pose. Brilliant author-illustrator Brian Russo shows readers just how relaxing yoga can be.”

“Practicing yoga with Yoga Bunny by Brian Russo is a perfect activity

for kids and their grown-ups around Easter time to create and reinforce family connections,” Acevedo added. “It promotes self-esteem for children in addition to oral, listening and literacy skills; boosts their imagination, creativity and focus and provides the physical and mental benefits of exercising.”

After story time, kids will make a bunny craft, and the special event will end with a visit from the Easter Bunny and unique photo opportunity

with farm bunnies, Patty and Lucy. Advance registration is required by Wednesday, March 29. Fees are $8, or $7 for those residing within Bensenville Park District boundaries. In-person registration can be completed at the DGLC or by phone at 630-766-7015. Registration hours are 8:30 a.m. to 8 p.m. Mondays, 8:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. Tuesday through Friday and Saturday from 9 a.m. to noon. Drop-off registrations can be done at any time the facility is open.

The Bensenville Park District’s Fall Program Guide is online and will soon be delivered to area residents in time to register for summer programs beginning 8:30 a.m. Tuesday, April 4, for those living in park district boundaries (April 5 for all others), at the Deer Grove Leisure Center (DGLC), 1000 W. Wood St.

“We invite our community to get out and play,” said executive director Joe Vallez, noting more than 50 activities will be held at district parks as part of the district’s Park ‘N Play initiative. “We are proud to unveil a number of new and expanded programs to engage residents of all ages.”

Summer activity and special event highlights include the free Egg Hunt and Eggstravaganza April

1, Easter Brunch at the White Pines Golf Club, Earth Day at Fischer Farm presented by Grand Subaru, Fitness de Mayo, four movies in the park, fitness days in the park, monthly family golf nights at White Pines Golf Club and more.

The Bensenville Park District invites local players to take part in the fastest-growing racket sport in America with daily court rentals in addition to drop-in sessions each Friday morning at the Deer Grove Leisure Center, 1000 W. Wood Street, Bensenville.

Pickleball combines tennis, badminton and ping pong into a fun game. The game is played with a

Additional highlights include a new farm camp experience at Fischer Farm, pickleball at the DGLC, new summer sports leagues, ticket specials for local minor league baseball and Wood Street Fitness

perforated, plastic ball the size of a baseball (similar to a wiffleball) and composite paddles.

“The game is easy for beginners to learn but can develop into a quick, fast-paced, competitive game for experienced players,” said Bensenville Park District recreation supervisor Breana Aponte.

Pickleball courts are available for rent from 9 a.m. to 12 noon Monday

free weeks, in addition to the Bensenville Water Park and Splash Pad, which opens Memorial Day. In-district veterans can also register for the new veteran’s golf event taking place Monday, June 12. Household information should be updated with the Bensenville Park District prior to registration. Household registration forms are available at the DGLC as well as online at BvilleParks.org/forms.

The Summer 2023 Program Guide may be viewed and downloaded from the Bensenville Park District website, BvilleParks.org. Hard copies will also be available at the Deer Grove Leisure Center. Registration forms may be found online as well as in the back of the Summer Program Guide.

Registration can be completed in person at the DGLC or via mail with payments included. Mail registration payments may be made by credit card, money order or check payable to the Bensenville Park District, 1000 W. Wood Street, Bensenville, IL 60016.

Park District summer registration begins April 4 Register for programs, activities at DGLC Bensenville Park District now offers pickleball

through Friday at the Deer Grove Leisure Center gymnasium. Court rental fees are $6 per hour for youth, $8 for fitness center members and $12 for non-members.

The center will also host drop-in sessions from 9 a.m. to noon every Friday through May 26 in the gymnasium. The drop-in fee is just $3. Pickleball paddles and balls are available for checkout at the front desk.

Be a part of the history of soils in Illinois

Your land, your soil may have been part of an historical and extensive soil sampling program dating back to 1899 by University of Illinois. University researchers and Illinois Nutrient Research and Education Council are looking for landowners whose property was part of the original research to take new samples and understand changes that have happened in the past century.

“Our predecessors had the foresight to keep records of soil sampling locations and to store those samples at the university,” says Andrew Margenot, crop sciences assistant professor. “By resampling soil from these same locations, we will

gain unprecedented insight on how these soils have changed over 120 years.”

The results will enable improvements in soil fertility management and conservation, including updates to the Illinois Agronomy Handbook. The project is funded by NREC and the Illinois Farm Bureau.

Many of the original soil sample sites, from around 450 locations, are now located on private land. Researchers are working to identify and contact landowners or producers to ask permission to sample soils. Sampling will take place with a small soil probe down 3 feet at three points within a 10- to 15-foot-area.

All soil sample results will be shared at no cost and will be anonymous to protect privacy of the sampling location.

A map of the site locations is available to review. Those interested in participating, can select the a specific location to share contact information with the research team for follow up, or contact the research team directly at rothman@illinois. edu or margenot@illinois.edu. More information about the project history, goals, and process can be found on the Illinois NREC website. Editor’s note: This article was originally released by NREC on Feb. 15 and written by Julie Hewitt.

Update that resume and bring it to the Bensenville Park District between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. on Saturday, March 25, when the park district hosts its job fair in the Oak Room of the Deer Grove Leisure Center, 1000 W. Wood St. The event is free and open to the public. The district is hiring for full- and part-time, seasonal and year-round positions at the Bensenville Water Park and Splash Pad, Deer Grove Leisure Center, Fischer Farm, White Pines Golf Club and Wood Street Fitness. Among the employees being sought are:

• Concession workers

• Lifeguards

• Pool staff

• Pool managers

• Camp counselors

• Maintenance workers

• Farm workers

• Beverage cart workers

• Kitchen staff

• Golf staff

• Servers

• Fitness group instructors

• Personal trainers

Attendees will also be eligible to receive a variety of free promotional items and can enter to win raffle prizes, including golf for two plus a cart at White Pines, a free jar of honey from Fischer Farm, a group fitness class day pass and water bottle and a fitness center day pass and water bottle from Wood Street Fitness.

Registration is not required to attend the job fair and prospective employees can meet hiring managers and representatives from various park district departments. Those interested can apply for positions online at BvilleParks. org/JoinOurTeam.

Bensenville Park District to host job fair Full-time, part-time, seasonal, yearround positions available

“ We invite our community to get out and play. We are proud to unveil a number of new and expanded programs to engage residents of all ages.”

– Joe Vallez, executive director

Area police departments recently reported the following arrests and citations. 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. Persons charged with domestic battery are not named in order to protect the privacy of victims.

Juveniles age 17 or younger are not named.

Addison

March 6

A 24-year-old Addison man was charged with two counts of domestic battery at 1:58 a.m.

March 5

Juan R. Gutierrez, 61, of Addison, was charged with three counts of violation of an order of protection in the 800 block of Fullerton at 9:45 p.m.

Marciela Rodriguez, 42, of Glendale Heights, was charged with two counts of DUI and driving in the wrong lane near Lake and Lincoln at 1:48 a.m.

March 4

Police said Samantha Marie Carrillo, 25, of Villa Park, was issued a failure to appear warrant near Addison and Lincoln at 8:18 p.m.

Eugene P. Hughes, 33, of Romeoville, was charged with possession of a controlled substance at 3:45 p.m.

March 3

Kevin Catano, 21, of Addison, was charged with two counts of DUI and illegal lane usage near Stone and Route 53 at 1:26 a.m.

Vernon D. Thompson, 39, of Addison, was charged with aiding/abetting/ possessing/selling a stolen vehicle.

A 42-year-old Addison woman was charged with two counts of domestic battery in the 900 block of E. Lake at 9:06 p.m.

Villa Park

March 3

Emily S. Demay, 46, of Lombard, was charged with two counts of DUI near E. St. Charles and N. Villa at 4:33 p.m.

Police said Silver Edosio, 23, of Villa Park, was arrested on three failure to appear warrants out of DuPage County near S. Ardmore and E. Van Buren at 10:33 a.m.

A complainant at the Rotary Playground reported at 8:21 a.m. that an unknown suspect used blue spray paint to draw on the playground.

March 1

Shahbaz A. Chaudhry, 26, of Villa Park, was charged with retail theft/possession of displayed merchandise at a store in the 900 block of S. Route 83 at 1:02 p.m.

A complainant at a school in the 200 block of W. School reported at 3:27 p.m. that they were battered by a suspect.

Feb. 28

Police said Nahom T. Abraha, 36, of Villa Park, was arrested an original complaint and warrant out of Joliet in the 100 block of W. Roosevelt at 1:27 a.m.

Titus Perez, 30, of Chicago, was charged with retail theft/possession of displayed merchandise at a pharmacy in the 200 block of E. Roosevelt at 3:55 a.m. Police said Perez also was arrested on a failure to appear warrant out of De Kalb County.

A 23-year-old Villa Park man was charged with two counts of domestic battery in the 1600 block of S. Michigan on the above date for an incident that occurred Feb. 23.

Feb. 27

A complainant in the 500 block of N. 2nd reported at 10:04 p.m. that unknown suspects used a large piece of

asphalt to break the rear window of a vehicle parked in the street. The suspects also used a large rock to damage the siding of their home.

Feb. 26

A complainant at Lions Park reported at 9:35 p.m. that an unknown suspect used purple spray paint to write on a village sign in the park.

A complainant near N. Princeton and W. Terrace reported at 6:39 p.m. that unknown suspects used a brick to damage a vehicle’s front and rear driver’s side door while it was parked on the street.

Feb. 25

Brian G. Vera Morales, 23, of Melrose Park, was charged with two counts of DUI and speeding in the 17W500 block of W Roosevelt at 11:50 p.m.

Fraud, identity theft

According to information provided last week by the Villa Park Police Department, police reported three incidents of residents being a victim of fraud or identity theft.

Bensenville

The Bensenville Police Department 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.

March 8, 1:35 a.m. near N. Route 83 and Brookwood Street, Lisette Andrea Valdez, 26, of Addison, was arrested for driving while under the influence of alcohol and other traffic violations.

BEPC2300216

March 7, 9:50 a.m. in the 900 Fair-

way Drive, a complainant wanted to report a suspect used a credit card in a fraudulent manner. This case is under investigation. BEPC2300210

March 7, 3:37 p.m. in the 200 block of S. Church Road, a complainant reported juveniles fighting. This case is under investigation. BEPC230021113

March 6, 9:11 a.m.in the 1000 block of Ferrari Drive, Antoni Figueroa Ramos, 22, of Elmhurst, was arrested for two failures to appear warrants out of DuPage County. BEPC2300206

March 6, 3:01 p.m. in the 300 block of E. Green Street, Aiden A. Ocampo, 19, of Hanover Park, was arrested for failure to appear warrant.

BEPC2300207

March 6, 5:14 p.m. in the 100 block of Gerry Steven Court, Ronal Alonza-Garcia, 32, of Bensenville, was arrested for disorderly conduct.

BEPC2300208

March 6, 7 p.m. in the 200 block of E. George St., Phillip Casillas, 34, of Bensenville, was arrested for disorderly conduct and resisting a police officer. BEPC2300209

March 5, 5:15 p.m. in the 200 block of May Street, a complainant reported that an unknown suspect shot his car windshield and their house window with a BB gun. This case is under investigation. BEPC2300203

March 5, 7:15 p.m. in the 300 block of S. Barron St., Steven R. Tucibat, 58, of Bensenville, was arrested for a failure to appear warrant out of DuPage County. BEPC2300204

March 4, 11:13 a.m. in the 1100 Twin Oaks Street, a complainant reported a known suspect has been harassing her via phone which is a violation of her order of protection. This case is under investigation. BEPC2300198

March 3, 6:11 a.m. in the 1200 block of Medinah Street, a complainant reported an unknown suspect stole their

car. The car was recovered in Chicago. This case is under investigation.

BEPC2300194

March 3, 6:16 am. near Elmhurst Street and N. Route 83, a 39-yearold man from Lackawanna, N.Y. and a 21-year-old woman from Buffalo, N.Y., were arrested for domestic battery against each other. The woman also was charged with criminal damage to property. BEPC2300196

March 3, 7:27 a.m. in the 900 block of Brookwood Street, a complainant reported an unknown suspect entered their car and took miscellaneous items. The items were found in a stolen vehicle in Chicago (Ref: BEPC2300194).

This case is under investigation.

BEPC2300195

March 2, 10:26 a.m. in the 1000 block of Route 83, a truck driver reports he parked his truck on March 1, and upon return, his truck was gone. Truck was entered into nationwide data base as stolen. BEPC2300188

March 2, 12:46 a.m. in the 200 block of Grand Avenue, a business reported a suspect came into business and produced a fraudulent check for cashing.

The incident is under investigation. BEPC2300189

March 2, 1:17 p.m. in the 900 block of Irving Park Road, a vehicle caught on fire while at a car wash in the location. The fire was extinguished and the vehicle was removed from scene. BEP23002479

March 2, 3:19 p.m. in the 400 block of Supreme Drive, a victim reports that their vehicle was keyed while in parking lot. The incident is under investigation. BEPC2300191

Bill would protect consumers from automatic renewal fees

A measure led by state Sen. Suzy Glowiak Hilton would require clear notice to be given to consumers before they enter contracts that automatically renew.

“From streaming services to cell phone contracts, contracts are regularly renewed without clear consent from consumers,” said Glowiak Hilton (D-Western Springs). “We must ensure consumers are aware of automatic renewal commitments before accepting the terms.”

Glowiak Hilton’s measure would require businesses to give notice to consumers before a contract renews. It would also allow consumers to terminate automatic renewal contracts more easily by phone or online–something that is often not offered by companies. Businesses that offer free trials or reduced one-time offers must also provide notice before the promotional period ends.

“Businesses take advantage of the loopholes automatic subscriptions present,” said Glowiak Hilton. “Addressing these loopholes gives people assurance that they are receiving transparency when making a purchase.”

Senate Bill 328 passed the Senate Judiciary Committee Tuesday and awaits further consideration.

Editor’s note: This was submitted by the office of State Sen. Suzy Glowiak Hilton.

These students, who are enrolled in Addison Trail’s School to Work and Pre-occupational classes, learned about careers in sports and entertainment by visiting the Chicago Wolves on Monday, Feb. 13. Jon Sata, president of business opera -

Wolves teach Addison Trail students about careers in sports, entertainment

On Monday, Feb. 13, 13 Addison Trail students attended a presentation hosted by the Chicago Wolves ice hockey team about working in sports and entertainment.

Those students are enrolled in Addison Trail’s School to Work and Pre-occupational classes, taught by teacher Stacey Puccini, which provides pupils with real-world experiences through visiting local businesses and meeting with career professionals.

During their visit to Allstate Arena in Rosemont, students met with Jon Sata, president of business operations for the Wolves, who discussed various career opportunities available in the sports and entertainment field such as marketing, ticket sales, concessions, event staff, video/music production, fan services, maintenance and more.

Students then watched the Wolves compete against the Milwaukee Admirals, which allowed them to see firsthand how those jobs operate.

The event was chaperoned by Addison Trail special education teacher Freddy Crone and vocational coach Robert Portillo.

tions for the Wolves discussed various career opportunities such as marketing, ticket sales, concessions, event staff, video/music production, fan services, maintenance and more.

After a lesson in careers available in sports and entertainment marketing, the students in Addison Trail’s School to Work program enjoyed a Wolves game. Even Skates, the Wolves mascot stopped by to say hello.

SUBMITTED PHOTOS Rock Valley Publishing

Viewpoint

Slices of life

Like my cat

This morning I woke up late. I’d planned on an earlier day, but sleep had other plans.

As I got up and got ready for the rest of my day, my cat lounged comfortably under the covers. She made a snoozy sound and curled into herself for some more and much-needed even-later morning sleep. It was at that moment I realized something important.

I want to be more like my cat.

I want to sleep in late, when I feel like it and take a nap later because that feels good too.

But that’s only the beginning.

I want to bask in the sunshine.

My kitty can find a spot of sunshine in any room at any time any day.

When she does, she puts herself smack dab in the middle of it and sets out to do what she does best: relax and soak it all in.

I want to live in the moment.

My kitty gets a special treat every day at 4:00, but she doesn’t worry about this at 11 a.m. or even 3 p.m.

At 11, she is most likely sleeping and at 3 most likely napping. She isn’t worried about the treats in her future.

She just lives (or sleeps as the case may be) in the moment. When it is treat-time, she enters the kitchen with tail held high and happy—a sign of confidence— because that is all that living in the moment requires.

I want to eat the good treats first—at least sometimes. These days my diet focuses on two things: Health and hydration. My kitty hardly ever ponders health. I do that for her. She has heathy cat food and then slightly less healthy treats.

She always eats the treats first because they taste better. I get that. I also get health. It’s a balance. Between the two of us, we are working on it.

I want to strut my stuff. My kitty walks with her tail held high, clearly proud of her new collar, and especially its bell. It announces her presence in a room and she seems to revel in this power.

I want to purr from deep within, without even knowing why or how this occurs. I want others to know I’m happy because my joy resonates so loudly that it can’t be ignored.

I want to land on my feet. Cats have an uncanny ability to jump from high places and consistently and conveniently land on all fours. I want to conquer any adversity in my path and come out on the other end still standing.

By JILL PERTLER Columnist

I want to keep it neat, complete and inside the litter box.

Cats know and recognize some of the basic tenets of life - like pooping. They don’t get all messy with their urination or defection. We all have messiness in our lives. Cats understand this and keep it contained - in a box. I’d love to take all of the messy aspects of my life and box them up.

On the flip side, my cat thinks outside the litter box. She loves to look out the windows to the outside world. Her inside world is only enhanced by the world outside - even if it is safer for her to view it from behind a pane of glass.

This doesn’t deter her. Not in the least. She still quivers at the sight of a squirrel or bird. She hunts them without hunting, but at the same time with the wildness of a lioness.

It’s a sight to see. Her imagination and resourcefulness are to be admired.

When given the chance, she embraces the chance to be outdoors, beyond the glass, in the truest sense. She’s been known to track mice, snakes, birds, squirrels and any critters worth crittering with near reckless abandon. I appreciate her passion and love of adventure.

I want to think outside the box and pursue adventure whenever the door is open—or whenever given the chance.

I want to be honest and unapologetic in all that I do. My cat doesn’t fake it. If she loves you, she lets you know— wholeheartedly. If she harbors distain for you, well, ditto. She is either all-in or all-out and there is no guessing about where she stands. She isn’t a people pleaser, yet she pleases me all the time. She walks the line without ever walking the line, and I love her for her honesty.

That, and her gorgeous collar.

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

By Jerry Nowicki CAPITOL NEWS ILLINOIS

With two months to go before the adjournment of Illinois’ spring legislative session, Gov. JB Pritzker’s state budgeting task may have gotten easier.

The Commission on Government Forecasting Accountability increased its revenue estimate for the current fiscal year by $575 million— yet another positive development in a monthslong streak of revenue growth.

The commission is a bipartisan, bicameral group of lawmakers and is staffed by nonpartisan economic analysts.

“You can see in every single month so far this fiscal year we’ve actually had a gain where we’ve generated more revenue in this fiscal year compared to the same time a year ago,” Eric Noggle, senior revenue analyst for COGFA, said at the commission’s March 7 meeting.

All told, COGFA anticipates revenues for the fiscal year that ends June 30 to exceed original estimates by $5.5 billion, rising to a record $51.9 billion.

Much of that surplus has already been appropriated. Lawmakers allocated at least $3.6 billion supplemental spending package in its January lame duck session, and Pritzker pro-

posed spending another $490 million by the end of the fiscal year when presenting his proposal for next year’s budget last month.

COGFA’s new estimate for the current fiscal year is $545 million beyond the amount assumed by the Governor’s Office of Management and Budget in Pritzker’s budget proposal.

COGFA is also projecting stronger revenues in the upcoming Fiscal Year 2024 than the most recent estimate from GOMB. The $50.4 billion COGFA estimate marks an increase of $465 million beyond the revenues the governor proposed.

Noggle noted that COGFA’s estimate was higher than GOMB’s because the commission had an extra half of January and all of February to factor into its projections. Because base revenue growth remained strong over that span, the commission was able to increase the estimate. That drove up the current year base revenues, which in turn drove up estimates for next fiscal year.

In recent years, lawmakers have directed surpluses to retiring debts early, increasing payments to the state’s pension system and to longterm savings. For the upcoming fiscal year, Pritzker has proposed added spending across state government— especially on child care and educa-

tion—while adding an extra $200 million to the pension fund.

Read more: Pritzker lays out $49.6 billion spending plan

The March 7 update could give the governor additional breathing room to usher his budget through the General Assembly and—if the past is any guide—potentially increase pension contributions or long-term savings.

Noggle said the expected growth was driven by strong performances in the state’s base tax revenue sources—corporate and personal income tax and sales tax driven higher by inflation.

The good revenue news in COGFA’s March update was the continuation of a nationwide state revenue boom which the Pew Charitable Trusts predicted last month could be reaching an “inflection point.”

That report was highlighted by the Illinois Department of Revenue in its testimony to a House committee recently. Pew calculated Illinois’ post2020 revenue growth at 10.8 percent over what it was expected to be based on pre-pandemic trends. That put Illinois at the third-best growth of all states.

Still, IDOR, GOMB and COGFA are all in general agreement that a recession is on the horizon—or at

Analysis: State revenue projections increase again in fiscal year’s final stretch $575 million increase gives Pritzker leeway in budget talks as fears of recession persist

District 88, others attend ‘Amplify’ student leadership conference

On Thursday, March 2, about 400 students from District 88, Naperville Community Unit School District 203, Glenbard Township High School District 87 and Lyons Township High School District 204 participated in “Amplify,” a Student Leadership Conference held at College of DuPage.

The conference consisted of 13 sessions that focused on amplifying student voice, mental health aware-

ness, celebrating diversity and identity, social justice, building community, the importance/benefits of performing arts (and how they can assist with equity, activism and mental health) and more.

The opening keynote speaker was Christopher LeMark with Coffee, Hip-Hop & Mental Health (CHHAMH 6453 NFP), a Chicago-based 501(c)(3) charitable organization that aims to bring awareness to the impor-

tance of mental health, emotional intelligence and self-awareness to one’s quality of life, particularly in the black community. The closing presenters were Luis Tubens and Tarnynon Onumonu with Chicago Poetry Center. The goal of “Amplify” was to provide students with an environment to build the skill, will and knowledge to intentionally make a positive impact within their peer groups and larger communities.

Care coordination center for veterans now available 24/7

Illinois Joining Forces (IJF) is pleased to announce the relaunch of its Care Coordination Center as a 24/7/365 service.

The center is designed to connect veterans, service members, and their families with the critical services and resources they need, at any time of the day or night.

“IJF understands that a veteran’s need to connect extends beyond 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Expanding our hours provides the entire state of Illinois veteran community the opportunity to connect to a Veteran Peer any time of day or night, reducing isolation and confusion about where to turn for support,” said Brenda Osuch, executive director of IJF.

The around-the-clock availability of the IJF Care Coordination Center is made possible by the SSG Park-

• Analysis

least they are relying on outside economic forecasts that predict such a scenario.

While IDOR’s presentation last week noted a recession could occur in the first two quarters of the current calendar year, COGFA and GOMB had a different take.

“So far, we’re just not really seeing that looking at our income tax data and our sales tax data and the jobs numbers,” COGFA Chief Economist Benjamin Varner said at the March 7 meeting. “Now, tax receipts obviously probably lag economic activity a little, but so far, we think the slowdown is probably going to be a little later in the year.”

er Gordon Fox Suicide Prevention Grant Program. IJF was awarded the grant in 2022, the only statewide organization in Illinois to receive this grant.

Individuals can access the Care Coordination Center by calling 1-833-INFO-IJF (1-833-463- 6453) or by visiting the IJF website at www.illinoisjoiningforces.org.

The IJF Care Coordination Center provides integrated, holistic case management and is staffed by trained professionals who have extensive knowledge of the military and veteran communities in Illinois. By providing upstream services and resources, IJF aims to prevent crises.

Individuals experiencing a crisis should call the Veteran Crisis Line. Dial 988, then press 1.

About Illinois Joining Forces:

(Continued from page 8) not as strong in tax year 2022, so we’re anticipating final income tax payments to drop during this last quarter of Fiscal Year 2023,” Noggle said. “But we still have had strong wages, we’ve had strong personal income...And so we think that they’re going to offset each other a little bit. The question is how much is there going to be a decline in the remainder of Fiscal Year 2023?”

All three fiscal forecasting entities have also agreed on another thing in recent months: forecasting has been

Illinois Joining Forces is a statewide nonprofit founded in 2012 that brings together government agencies, nonprofit organizations, and the private sector to create a more coordinated and comprehensive system of support for service members, veterans, and their families–to include caregivers and survivors–regardless of discharge status. IJF helps those groups navigate the “sea of goodwill” to find the support they need, when they need it.

Whether they are struggling with unemployment, mental health, physical health, housing, finances, or another issue, IJF connects service members, veterans, and their families to the services and resources they need, as close to home as possible. For more information, visit www.illinoisjoiningforces.org.

Christopher LeMark with Coffee, Hip-Hop & Mental Health was the opening keynote speaker for this year’s Student Leadership Conference, called “Amplify.” The event took place at College of DuPage and focused on amplifying student voice, mental health awareness, celebrating diversity and identity, social justice, building community, and the importance/benefits of performing arts.

COGFA’s report noted other factors that could change the state’s revenue outlook moving forward. Among them are the possibility of another COVID-19 resurgence, a worsening of the war in Ukraine, and the impacts of inflation and further possible interest rate hikes by the Federal Reserve.

But the report also noted that its $575 million upward revision was “very cautious,” based on the fact that final income tax receipts could drastically alter the revenue landscape.

Final payments were “especially strong” in the previous fiscal year due to an influx of capital gains taxes amid a booming stock market. But that pace has slowed, leading to the cautious approach, COGFA said.

“The market conditions have been

difficult in an era marked by the COVID-19 pandemic and unprecedented levels of government stimulus.

“We keep expecting that slowdown’s going to happen,” Noggle said at the end of the COGFA meeting. “But it just hasn’t happened yet.”

Jerry Nowicki is the bureau Chief of Capitol News Illinois, a nonprofit, nonpartisan news service covering state government that is distributed to more than 400 newspapers statewide.

SUBMITTED PHOTO Rock Valley Publishing

Guitarra Azul ensemble returns to Music@Bethel series

Returning by popular demand, Grammy-nominated Guitarra Azul will perform at Bethel United Church of Christ on Saturday, March 25 at 7 p.m. as part of the church’s Music@Bethel Concert Series. With their breathtaking techniques, irresistible rhythms, world class musicianship and spirited dance, Guitarra Azul promises to transport you to another place and time.

Guitarra Azul (Spanish for blue guitar) is a six-piece Chicago-based band consisting of Spanish guitars, conga drums, percussion and bass. The group’s all-original music is best described as a mix of rumba, flamenco, Latin jazz, and world music, performed by an international line up of virtuoso musicians.

Members of the ensemble include Steve Edwards, guitar; David Chiriboga, guitar; Rafe Bradford, bass; Osvaldo “Ozzie” Aviles, percussion; and, Ronaldo Monge and Nalanie Molina, performing dance.

Guitarra Azul has been steadily making a name for itself as a dynamic and endearing live act. With its captivating charisma, dynamic virtuosity, soul stirring and heartfelt melodies, conspicuous camaraderie, and masterful techniques, Guitarra Azul appeals to all lovers of fine music.

Since its inception, the Music@Bethel Concert Series has been under the artistic direction of world-class, award-winning pianist Jeffrey Panko, minister of music at Bethel Church and a frequent performer in the series.

“Guitarra Azul’s stunning performances as part of Music@Bethel’s concert series have consistently been the most exciting and riveting concerts I have ever had the good fortune to hear,” Panko said. “Our audience can assuredly expect yet another passionate, vivacious performance showcasing family-friendly accessibility and a warmth of spirit that would appeal to all music lovers.”

A reception will follow, where guests can enjoy refreshments while mingling with other music lovers. Bethel United Church of Christ is located at 315 East St. Charles Road in Elmhurst. Tickets are available on Eventbrite or by calling 630-279-4040. Tickets are $20 and students are free. The church is fully-accessible and parking is free. Enter at the Sandburg Middle School entrance from St. Charles Road, or from Huntington off Poplar Street.

Steve Edwards and David Chiriboga are the guitarists who make up part of the group known as Guitarra Azul, (Spanish for blue guitar), which combines irresistible rhythms and world class musicianship with spirited dance. Guitarra Azul will perform for the Music@Bethel concert series on Saturday, March 25 at 7 p.m. at Bethel United Church of Christ, 315 E. St. Charles Road in Elmhurst, next to Sandburg Middle School. Tickets are $20 per person and can be obtained on Eventbrite or by calling 630-279-4040. Students may attend free. The church is fully-accessible and parking is free.

SUBMITTED PHOTO Rock Valley Publishing

Flexx Personal Training & Nutrition

Pritzker touts $70 million plan for addressing teacher shortage

Grant program targets vacancies in 170 school districts accounting for 80 percent of vacancies

By Nika Schoonover CAPITOL NEWS ILLINOIS

Gov. JB Pritzker recently highlighted a proposed grant program

that would direct $70 million per year over the next three years to school districts facing the greatest teacher shortages.

The Teacher Pipeline Grant Program, which Pritzker included in his budget proposal to lawmakers, would target vacancies in 170 school

Are you a Roman Catholic?

7 Hours of Confession

When was the last time you received Reconciliation? Was it recently? In the past year?

The priests of Eastern DuPage County will be available to celebrate the Sacrament of Forgiveness of Sin!

Saturday, March 25, from 8am until 3pm There will be select times when the Sacrament will be offered in Polish and Spanish.

All are invited to receive God’s grace Immaculate Conception Church

132 Arthur St. Elmhurst, IL 630-530-8515

Why do you live in Elmhurst?

"Mark"

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has been a big part of why Elmhurst is loved by so many.

districts that account for 80 percent of all unfilled teaching positions in Illinois. The districts would have “maximum flexibility” to decide how the funds are disbursed, according to a news release.

Funds could be used for signing bonuses, housing stipends, down-payment assistance and providing residencies or apprenticeships, among other hiring incentives. Districts may also use the funding to reimburse tuition and fees or to provide teaching supplies, coaching and additional school support.

“The result will be that over 870,000 Illinois students will see an improved teacher-student ratio, a critical factor in classroom success,” Pritzker said at a news conference. “Our collective goals are to make sure we have enough great teachers in every classroom.”

The governor touted some of his earlier accomplishments aimed at improving the teaching workforce, including increasing the teacher minimum wage, increasing scholarships and grants for aspiring teachers, and reducing the reinstatement fees for a lapsed educator license.

Pritzker also made a call to other teachers in surrounding states to move to Illinois.

“We have surrounding states where teachers are paid less than teachers in the state of Illinois and I want to formally invite every teacher in every state surrounding us to jump over the border,” Pritzker said, eliciting laughter from the crowd.

He was joined by newly appointed State Superintendent of Education Tony Sanders, a former superintendent for Elgin Area School District U46, the second largest school district in Illinois.

Sanders pointed to Illinois State Board of Education data that shows Illinois schools reported 3,558 unfilled teaching positions as of October 2022.

“These shortages don’t just affect students equally. These vacancies are concentrated in bilingual education, special education and STEM,” Sanders said. “This is why the teacher pipeline program will target districts with the resources they need to solve locally the challenges they have for recruitment and retention and remove barriers preventing aspiring educators from pursuing a calling to teaching.”

In addition to the grant program, ISBE will also spend $6 million in federal funds to hire a multimedia advertising and marketing firm to create a statewide teacher recruitment campaign.

The governor has spent several recent news conferences publicizing his plans on education issues, including his proposed “Smart Start” program to expand access to preschool and child care throughout the state. In the weeks following his budget address, he visited Springfield, Rockford, East St. Louis, Chicago, Mount Vernon, Chicago, Peoria and See SHORTAGE, Page 17

Early Voting Starts

March 20 @

"As you may be aware, I am running for 7th Ward Alderman. I have been honored to serve you and I ask for your continued support.

for me, Mark Mulliner."

Illinois considers legalizing ‘human composting’

While proponents say it’s greener than traditional burial, critics doubt its dignity

By Andrew Adams CAPITOL NEWS ILLINOIS

Religious and environmental ideals are at odds for some in the ongoing debate around what to do with human remains.

A proposal at the Illinois Statehouse would legalize and regulate “natural organic reduction,” a process in which human remains are rapidly decomposed into compost. The process is also known as human composting or terramation.

That process turns human remains into dirt over the course of several weeks. Companies that offer this service place a person’s remains in a vessel with wood chips, straw and other organic material and heat it to accelerate the growth of microbes that break down the body. This is distinct from “natural burial,” in which a body is buried with no casket or in a biodegradable container.

The measure, House Bill 3158,

Elmhurst University

After a sold-out inaugural event, “TEDxElmhurstUniversity” is back.

The theme of this year ’s event, to be held on Saturday, April 1, is FIRSTS, and will feature a diverse group of speakers discussing topics ranging from autism to public art to slang and more.

This year ’s speakers represent a cross-section from the University and the greater community. They include:

• Rajee Aerie ’07, an actor, model, product specialist and speaker. Her talk is about “How Love Can Transform Your Setback Into a Superpower.”

• Rafael Blanco, M.F.A., a public artist and assistant professor of art at Elmhurst University. His topic is “Public Art as a Public Service.”

• Gena Cox, Ph.D., an industrial and organizational psychologist. She will discuss “Skirting Career Quicksand: A ‘Yes … And’ Strategy.”

• Liza Gabrek MPH ’23, a graduate student in the master of public health program at Elmhurst University. She will present “Second Firsts.”

• William Hirstein, Ph.D., a professor of philosophy at Elmhurst University. His talk is titled “Is Human Consciousness Actually Private?”

• Neeraja Kumar, a high school student, will talk about “Walking the Path of Firsts Towards Adulthood.”

• Marvin Malone MBA ’23, creative project manager at NBCUniversal and an MBA candidate at Elmhurst University. He will address “Speaking to the Crowd.”

• Lukas Munoz ’23, an economics and philosophy student at Elmhurst University. His talk is titled “A Dream Deferred.”

• Morgan Ogunleye ’23, an Elmhurst University nursing student. Her address is titled “The Art of Unlearning.”

See TEDX, Page 17

passed in the House Energy and Environment Committee on March 7 on a 16-10 vote. It now goes to the House for consideration, although its sponsor, Rep. Kelly Cassidy, D-Chicago, said an amendment to the bill is likely.

If lawmakers approve the proposal, Illinois would become the seventh state to legalize this process. Washington, Colorado, Oregon, Vermont, California and New York have already made the process legal, according to the human composting company Recompose.

Recompose pushed for the legalization of human composting in Washington. Its website notes that a body will stay in the vessel for four to seven weeks before the resulting soil is allowed to cure for two to six weeks. A person’s loved ones are then left with approximately one cubic yard of soil.

“Natural organic reduction is,

in fact, the most environmentally friendly death care option,” Haley Morris, a representative of the human composting company Earth Funerals, said during the committee hearing.

“It’s less resource intensive than any other option and it reduces carbon dioxide emissions by nearly 90 percent relative to traditional options,” Moris added Representatives of several environmental groups around the state have also voiced their support of the bill in witness slips filed with the committee. These include the Illinois Environmental Council, the Illinois Chapter of the Sierra Club and Go Green Winnetka.

Cassidy filed an amendment on March 8, altering some of the fee structures for licensing the practice and indicated in an interview that another forthcoming amendment will modify some of the regulations

around testing the compost.

“This is about creating choices and options and in particular choices that are less harmful for the planet,” Cassidy said.

Cassidy also said she updated her own will last year to include that she would like her body to undergo the natural organic reduction process.

Notable among the bill’s opponents is the Catholic Church. Daniel Welter, the recently retired chancellor of the Archdiocese of Chicago, spoke to lawmakers at the request of the Catholic Conference of Illinois on March 7.

“Turning the mortal remains of a human person into compost for the purpose of fertilization, as one would with vegetable trimmings or eggshells, degrades the human person and dishonors the life that was lived by that person,” he said during the committee hearing.

Welter added that he and the

church “oppose any tendency to minimize the dignity of a human being, even after death.”

Representatives of the death care industry also oppose legalizing this process. LeNette Van Haverbeke, a representative of Illinois Cemetery and Funeral Home Association, told lawmakers that many in the field “oppose human composting as lacking the traditional dignity afforded to the dead.”

Others in the field are not as critical. After a similar bill was met with opposition last year from the Illinois Funeral Directors Association, Cassidy met with representatives of the industry to craft new language regulating the vessels used in the process, professional licensing and soil testing among other elements of the bill.

“I’m not saying we’re a proponent of it, but the sponsor did listen to us,” said Margaret Vaughn of the Illinois Funeral Directors Association.

Worship Services Directory

St. Timothy Evangelical Lutheran Church

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

Lent and Easter Services at 7 p.m.

Sunday Worship at 10:15 am Sunday School & Bible Study 9am

“The Crucial Hours”

Second Lenten Service March 9, 2022

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

Lent and Easter Services at 7 pm

Third Lenten Service March 16, 2022

“His Final Steps”

Fourth Lenten Service March 15, 2023

Rev. Jonathan Bergemann “Led to Some Greeks” Good Shepherd, Downers Grove John 12:20-33

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

Fifth Lenten Service March 22, 2023

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

Rev. Caleb Klatt “Led to His Father’s House” St. Matthews, Niles Matthew 27:3-4

Fifth Lenten Service March 30, 2022

Sixth Lenten Service March 29, 2023

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

Rev. Tom Nicholson “Led to His Enemies” Resurrection, Aurora Luke 20:9-19 ✝

✝ ✝ ✝ ✝ ✝ ✝ ✝ ✝

Sixth Lenten Service April 6, 2022

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

Maundy Thursday Communion 7:00 pm, April 6

Good Friday Tenebrae 7:00 pm, April 7

Easter Sunrise 6:30 am, April 9

Maundy Thursday Communion 7 p.m., April 14

Easter Breakfast 8:00 am, April 9

Good Friday Tenebrae 7 p.m., April 15

Easter Festival 10:15 am, April 9

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

Everyone is Welcome!

Easter Breakfast 8 a.m., April 17

All services are live streamed. SaintTimothy.org

Easter Festival 10:15 a.m., April 17 434050

History Museum, University welcome Chicago Immigrant Orchestra in concert

A special blend of world music will be showcased when the Elmhurst History Museum presents the Chicago Immigrant Orchestra in concert on Sunday, March 26 at 2 p.m. in Hammerschmidt Memorial Chapel on the campus of Elmhurst University.

Tickets are $15 each and $10 for those younger than 18 and are available online at elmhursthistory. org (in the Programs section) or on Eventbrite at tinyurl.com/3cw6xsrs.

Please note that seating in Hammerschmidt Memorial Chapel is open and seats are not reserved. Doors open at 1:30 p.m. Free parking is available in the Elmhurst University parking lots and in nearby City of Elmhurst garages.

About the CIO

In 1999, the Chicago Immigrant Orchestra was first established by the Chicago Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events as part of the first annual Chicago World Music Festival.

Today, the Chicago Immigrant Orchestra has evolved to a 20-piece ensemble that consists of members of the Chicago immigrant community, representing musical traditions from all over the world. The orchestra explores the relationships and differ-

ences among these traditions, creating a cohesive tapestry of cultures.

In this fresh approach under the direction of virtuoso guitarist and composer Fareed Haque and multi-instrumentalist Wanees Zarour, Chicago Immigrant Orchestra musicians — from Sthe Far East to Western Europe, Africa and the Americas — are thoroughly involved in the evolution of the musical concepts presented. From a Mongolian throat singer and horsehair fiddle player to a West African percussionist and more, numerous diverse musical styles from across the globe will be showcased in this eclectic concert.

Elmhurst History Museum’s related exhibit

The Chicago Immigrant Orchestra concert is presented in connection with the Elmhurst History Museum’s current exhibit, In Pursuit of Happiness: Immigrants in Our Communities, which continues its run through Sunday, May 14. The museum is located at 120 E. Park Ave. in downtown Elmhurst (within walking distance of Elmhurst University). The exhibit examines the personal stories and experiences of area immigrants and their descendants as told through first-person accounts, photographs, treasured objects, video and more.

Angiulo named 88’s Best for February

Sofia Angiulo has been named as Addison Trail’s February recipient of 88’s Best recognition for her outstanding service work. She was recognized during the Feb. 27 District 88 Board of Education meeting.

From a Mongolian throat singer and horsehair fiddle player to a West African percussionist and more, numerous diverse musical styles from across the globe will be performed by the Chicago Immigrant Orchestra on Sunday, March 26 at 2 p.m. in Hammerschmidt Chapel on the campus of Elmhurst University. The concert is presented in conjunction with the current exhibition In Pursuit of Happiness: Immigrants in Our Communities, at the Elmhurst History Museum. Tickets are available at elmhursthistory.org in the Programs section.

LEGAL NOTICES

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 4, 2023 at 6:30 P.M., at which a Public Hearing will be held to review case No. 2023 - 06 to consider a request for:

Preliminary and Final Plat of Subdivision

Municipal Code Section 11 – 3

At 1180 W Irving Park Road in 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, 2, 3, 4, AND 5, IN BLOCK A IN FIRST ADDITION TO PERCY WILSON’S IRVING PARK MANOR, A SUBDIVISION IN SECTIONS 10, 11, 14, AND 15, TOWNSHIP 40 NORTH, RANGE 11 EAST OF THE THIRD PRINCIPAL MERIDIAN, ACCORDING TO THE PLAT THEREOF RECORDED MAY 7, 1926 AS DOCUMENT 213044, IN DUPAGE COUNTY, ILLINOIS. AND LOTS 6, 9, 10, 11 AND 12 (EXCEPT THAT PART OF SAID LOTS DEDICATED FOR PUBLIC HIGHWAY PURPOSES BY PLAT OF DEDICATION DATED APRIL 14, 1938 AND RECORDED MAY 26, 1938 AS DOCUMENT NO. 389979) IN BLOCK A IN FIRST ADDITION TO PERCY WILSON’S IRVING PARK MANOR, A SUBDIVISION IN SECTIONS 10, 11, 14, AND 15, TOWNSHIP 40 NORTH, RANGE 11 EAST OF THE THIRD PRINCIPAL MERIDIAN, ACCORDING TO THE PLAT THEREOF RECORDED MAY 7, 1926 AS DOCUMENT 213044, IN DUPAGE COUNTY, ILLINOIS. ALSO: THE VACATED ALLEY LYING EAST OF AND ADJOINING LOTS 9, 10, 11 AND 12 AND THE VACATED ALLEY LYING SOUTH OF AND ADJOINING LOT 12 IN BLOCK A IN FIRST ADDITION TO PERCY WILSON’S IRVING PARK MANOR, A SUBDIVISION IN SECTIONS 10, 11, 14, AND 15, TOWNSHIP 40 NORTH, RANGE 11 EAST OF THE THIRD PRINCIPAL MERIDIAN, ACCORDING TO THE PLAT THEREOF RECORDED MAY 7, 1926 AS DOCUMENT 213044, ALL IN DUPAGE COUNTY, ILLINOIS.

ALSO: THE VACATED ALLEY LYING SOUTH OF AND ADJOINING LOTS 1 THROUGH 6 AND LYING NORTH OF AND ADJOINING LOT 9, LYING EAST OF THE EAST RIGHT OF WAY LINE OF ILLINOIS ROUTE 83 PER PLAT OF DEDICATION DATED APRIL 14, 1938 AND RECORDED MAY 26, 1938 AS DOCUMENT NO. 389979, AND LYING WEST OF THE SOUTHERLY EXTENSION OF THE EAST LINE OF SAID LOT 1 IN BLOCK A IN FIRST ADDITION TO PERCY WILSON’S IRVING PARK MANOR, A SUBDIVISION IN SECTIONS 10, 11, 14, AND 15, TOWNSHIP 40 NORTH, RANGE 11 EAST OF THE THIRD PRINCIPAL MERIDIAN, ACCORDING TO THE PLAT THEREOF RECORDED MAY 7, 1926 AS DOCUMENT 213044 IN DUPAGE COUNTY, ILLINOIS.

Commonly known as 1180 W Irving Park Road, Bensenville, IL 60106.

HITT, LLC of 1421 Granville Avenue, Park Ridge, IL 60068 is the owner and LSCD of Bensenville, LLC of 777 Lake Zurich Road, Ste. 200, Barrington, IL 60010 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 Village Hall, and online comments submitted on the Village website, will be accepted by the Community and Economic Development Department through April 4, 2023 until 5:00 P.M

Office of the Village Clerk

Village of Bensenville (Published in the Addison Independent, Bensenville Independent March 16, 2023) 434416

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 4, 2023 at 6:30 P.M., at which a Public Hearing will be held to review case No. 2023 – 09 to consider a request for:

Zoning Text Amendments

Municipal Code Section 10 – 3 – 6

The proposed Text Amendments to the Village Code are to amend Title 10 (Zoning Ordinance), Chapter 7 (Uses), Chapter 9 (Landscape Standards), and Title 11(Subdivision Regulations) Chapter 3 (Subdivision Procedures).

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 4, 2023 until 5:00 P.M.

Office of the Village Clerk Village of Bensenville

(Published in the Addison Independent, Bensenville Independent March 16, 2023) 434414

SUBMITTED PHOTO Rock Valley Publishing

ELMHURST HISTORY MUSEUM PHOTO Rock Valley Publishing

Puzzle page

BENEATH BUDDING

COMPOST

CURE

FARM FRUITS

GEORGIA

GROUNDNUT

HARVEST

HOPPER

LEGUME

PEANUT

PEG

PLANTING

POD

PRODUCTION

ROASTED ROOTS

RUNNER SOIL

SPANISH

VALENCIA

VARIETY

VIRGINIA

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. Belonging to a thing

4. Pass or go by

10. Partner to cheese

11. Subjects

12. U.S. State (abbr.)

14. Bits per inch

15. Forest-dwelling deer

16. Illinois city

18. A salt or ester of acetic acid

22. Wholly unharmed

23. Cuddled

24. Bane

26. Global investment bank (abbr.)

27. Oh my gosh!

28. Arrive

30. Famed Spanish artist

31. Home of “Frontline”

34. Group of quill feathers

36. Keyboard key

37. Army training group

39. Detail

40. Pole with flat blade

41. Football play

42. Makes unhappy

48. Island in Hawaii

50. Back in business

51. Of an individual

52. Painful chest condition

53. Tropical American monkey

54. Matchstick game

55. For instance

56. Even again

58. Popular beverage

59. Evaluate

60. Time units (abbr.)

CLUES DOWN

1. Stain one’s hands

2. Nocturnal hoofed animals

3. Back condition

4. Popular movie alien

5. City of Angels

6. Peaks

7. Infantry weapons

8. Left

9. Atomic #99

12. Told a good yarn

13. Vale

17. Resistance unit

19. Aquatic plant

20. Bluish greens

21. About some Norse poems

25. Reinforces

29. Egyptian mythological goddess

31. Supportive material

32. Subatomic particle

33. Expired bread

35. Cereal grain

38. Goes against

41. Walkie __

43. One who does not accept

44. Beliefs

45. Indicates near

46. Brazilian NBA star

47. Grab quickly

49. Romantic poet

56. College dorm worker

57. Set of data

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

Mount Carmel Prayer to the Blessed Virgin Mary

Oh, most beautiful flower of Mt. Carmel, fruitful vine, splendor of Heaven. Blessed Mother of the Son of God, Immaculate Virgin, assist me in my necessity, Oh Star of the Sea, help me and show me here you are my Mother. Oh Holy Mary, Mother of God queen of Heaven and Earth, I humbly beseech you from the bottom of my heart to succor me in my necessity (make request). There are none that can withstand your power. Oh Mary, conceived without sin, pray for us who have recourse to thee (say three times). Holy Mary, I place this prayer in your hands (say three times). Amen. Say this prayer for three consecutive days and then you must publish and it will be granted to you.

I am confident my prayers will be answered. Thank You Mother of God!!! JC

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Automobiles

2014 CHEVY EQUINOX, all wheel drive, 163,000 miles, new engine, new brakes, runs great, $14,500. 630-222-3140.

PUBLISHER’S NOTICE

All real estate advertising in this newspaper is subject to the Fair Housing Act which makes it illegal to advertise any preference, limitation or discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, disability, familiar/ status or national origin, or an intention to make any such preference, limitation or discrimination. Familial status includes children under the age of 18 living with parents or legal custodians, pregnant women and people securing custody of children under 18. This newspaper will not knowingly accept any advertising for real estate which is in violation of the law. Our readers are hereby informed that all dwellings advertised in this newspaper are available on an equal opportunity basis. To complain of discrimination call HUD toll-free at 1-900669-9777. The toll-free tele phone number for the hearing impaired is 1-800-927-9275. EQUAL HOUSING OPPORTUNITY

https://homepaintingillino.wixsite.com/website PAINTERS. FULL-SERVICE.

PAINTERS. FULL-SERVICE. INSIDE. OUTSIDE. HOME. BUSINESS. SATISFACTION GUARANTEED. CALL GREG: (630)234-1471.

https://homepaintingillino.wixsite.com/website PAINTERS. FULL-SERVICE. PAINTERS. FULL-SERVICE. INSIDE. OUTSIDE. HOME. BUSINESS. SATISFACTION GUARANTEED. CALL GREG: (630)234-1471.

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

Tree Service

Illinois Supreme Court grants expedited appeal in assault weapons ban case

Macon County judge ruled parts of the law unconstitutional

By Peter Hancock CAPITOL NEWS ILLINOIS

The Illinois Supreme Court agreed last week to fast-track the state’s appeal of a Macon County judge’s ruling against parts of a recently passed state ban on assault weapons and high-capacity magazines.

Lawmakers passed the ban during a lame duck session in January and Gov. JB Pritzker signed it into law almost immediately. The law came in response to numerous mass shootings in the United States, including at an Independence Day parade in Highland Park last summer in which the shooter used an assault-style weapon, killing seven people and injuring dozens of others.

The new law bans the sale and manufacture of a long list of firearms defined as “assault weapons,” assault weapon attachments, .50-caliber rifles and .50-caliber cartridges, as well as large-capacity magazines.

The law allows people who already own such items to keep them, but it restricts their ability to sell or

• Shortage

transfer them to someone else. And it requires current owners of such weapons to register them with the Illinois State Police by Jan. 1, 2024.

The law also exempts certain people from the ban, including current and retired law enforcement officers; wardens, superintendents and keepers of state and federal prisons; members of the armed services or reserve forces while they are performing official duties or traveling to or from their places of duty; and companies that employ armed security guards at federally supervised nuclear sites.

Passage of the law prompted immediate legal challenges in both state and federal courts by gun rights advocates who said it violated both the Illinois and U.S. constitutions.

One of those suits was filed by a group of plaintiffs led by Republican state Rep. Dan Caulkins, of Decatur.

On March 3, Judge Rodney S. Forbes ruled that the exceptions to the assault weapons ban violate the equal protection clause in the Illinois Constitution as well as the “special

(Continued from page 12)

Macomb to rally support for the plan.

“When I came into office, the state of Illinois was providing nearly the lowest percentage of school funding for K-12 and P-12,” Pritzker said.

“That was four years ago. But during the last four years, with the General Assembly’s help, we’ve addressed

• TEDx

this woeful underfunding of K-12 education with an increase of more than $1.5 billion from the state of Illinois.”

His proposed plan calls for $250 million to fund the first year of Smart Start and an additional $350 million aimed at the Evidence Based Funding formula.

(Continued from page 13)

• Felicia Shakespeare ’96, an educator, author and founder of A Purpose Driven Woman LLC. She will present “You Are Your Brand: Building From the Inside Out!”

• Sarah Strom Kays ’90, Ph.D., associate professor and chair of the Department of Communication and Media at Elmhurst University. Her talk is entitled “Say What? Slang is More Than ‘Being Hip.’”

• Angela Williams ’06, a school administrator, learning behavior specialist, and faculty director of Turning Pointe Autism Foundation. She will discuss “Fears, Failures and Firsts in Autism.”

TEDxElmhurstUniversity 2023 will be held on Saturday, April 1, beginning at 3 p.m. in the Mill Theatre on the campus of Elmhurst University. For directions, visit elmhurst.edu/campusmap.

General admission is $15 (with a

Answers

two-ticket maximum due to limited seating). Tickets are available at elmhurst.edu/tedx. If demand permits, an on-campus livestream option may be made available. For more information, email marketing@elmhurst.edu.

TED began in 1984 as a conference where Technology, Entertainment and Design converged, and today covers almost all topics — from science to business to global issues — in more than 100 languages. Meanwhile, independently run TEDx events help share ideas in communities around the world. More than 3,000 events are now held annually.

Last year’s TEDxElmhurstUniversity featured 14 talks whose videos have since garnered thousands of views on TED.com and YouTube. They also can be viewed at elmhurst.edu/TEDx.

PUZZLE 1 PUZZLE 2

legislation” clause that prohibits the General Assembly from passing “a special or local law when a general law can be made applicable.”

“We look forward to vigorously defending this final judgment by Judge Forbes,” Caulkins said at a news conference March 8. “We believe that we have the facts on our side.”

That decision, the judge wrote, was based on a 5th District Court of Appeals ruling in another case in which an Effingham County judge had granted a temporary restraining or-

NOTICE TO BIDDERS

THE VILLAGE OF BENSENVILLE, DuPAGE COUNTY, ILLINOIS, will receive sealed bids for the CRESTBROOK SUBDIVISION ROADWAY RECONSTRUCTION PROJECT until Eleven A.M. (11:00 A.M.) (prevailing time), April 4, 2023 at the office of the Municipal Clerk in the Village Hall, 12 South Center Street, in the Village of Bensenville, Illinois, at which time and place all bids will be publicly opened and read aloud.

The contract documents, including plans and specifications, are on file at the office of the Owner, Village of Bensenville – Department of Public Works, 717 East Jefferson Street, Bensenville IL 60106, (630) 350-3411. Copies of the bid documents may be obtained from the Village of Bensenville website https://www. bensenville.il.us/bids.aspx or email Brad Hargett, Assistant Village Engineer, at bhargett@bensenville.il.us at no charge for each set along with a copy of the Contractor’s “Certificate of Eligibility” issued by the Illinois Department of Transportation.

A bid bond, certified check, bank draft or irrevocable letter of credit on a solvent bank, payable to the Village of Bensenville, or cash in an amount of not less than ten percent (10%) of the amount of the bid shall be submitted with each bid.

The successful bidder will be required to furnish a satisfactory performance bond in the amount equal to one hundred percent (100%) of the Contract sum as a security for the faithful performance of the Contract and also a Payment Bond in the amount equal to one hundred percent (100%) of the Contract Sum as a security for the payment of all persons performing labor on the Project under the Contract and furnishing materials in connection of the Contract. The successful bidder shall also furnish a Certificate of Insurance. No bid shall be withdrawn after opening of bids without the consent of said Municipality for a period of sixty (60) days after the scheduled time of opening bids. The Village of Bensenville reserves the right to reject any or all bids and to waive any informalities in bidding and to accept the bid deemed most advantageous to it, all in accordance with the standard specifications.

(Published in the Addison Independent, Bensenville Independent & Villa Park Review March 16, 2023)

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CROSSWORD

der to block enforcement of the ban. That order, however, applied only to the roughly 800 plaintiffs who were named in the case. That case, Accuracy Firearms LLC v. Pritzker, also is on appeal before the Supreme Court. Although the Accuracy Firearms case went through an appellate court before reaching the Supreme Court, Attorney General Kwame Raoul appealed the Caulkins case directly to

the high court. In both cases, Raoul filed motions for an expedited hearing schedule. But on March 7, the court chose to take only one, accepting the Caulkins case and denying the motion in the Accuracy Firearms case. According to the court’s order, oral arguments in the Caulkins case are scheduled to be heard sometime in May.

LEGAL NOTICES

NOTICE

April 9, 2024 at 6:00 p.m. Or After

CERTIFICATE

NO. 78989 was filed in the office of the County Clerk of DuPage County on FEBRUARY 28, 2023, wherein the business firm of MC DESIGNS, 250 N. WESLEY DRIVE, ADDISON, IL 60101 was registered; that the true or real name or names of the person or persons owning the business, with their respective post office address(es), is/are as follows:

Alvaro D. Mercado Delgado, 250 N. Wesley Drive, Addison, IL 60101.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand and Official Seal at my office in Wheaton, Illinois, this 28TH day of FEBRUARY, A.D. 2023. Jean Kaczmarek

DuPage County Clerk

(Published in the Addison Independent, Bensenville Independent & Villa Park Review March 9, 16 & 23, 2023)

433787

ANNUAL TOWN MEETING

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN

To the legal voters, residents of the Town of Addison in the County of DuPage and State of Illinois, that the Annual Town Meeting of said Town will take place on Tuesday, April 11, 2023, 7:00 p.m.

401 N. Addison Rd. Event Center Addison, IL

For the transaction of the miscellaneous business of said town; and after a Moderator having been elected, will proceed to hear, and consider reports of officers, and decide on such measures as may, in pursuance of law, come before the meeting; and specially to consider and decide the following.

I. Call To Order

II. Pledge of Allegiance

III. Qualification of Voters

IV. Election & Swearing in Of Moderator

V. Approval of Minutes of Annual Town Meeting of April 12, 2022

VI. Reading of Expenditures from All Funds for Fiscal Year 6-1-2022 to 5-312023

VII. New Business

Resolution to delegate to the Township Board for a period of 12 months the power to purchase, sell or lease township property and to authorize the Township Board to specify any such property.

VIII. Unfinished Business

IX. Notice of Next Annual Town Meeting

X. Public Comment

XI. Adjournment

BY: Pamela Joy Moretti Town Clerk

(Published in the Addison Independent, Bensenville Independent & Villa Park Review March 16, 2023)

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PUBLIC NOTICE: BENSENVILLE –INTENT TO ISSUE A CATEGORICAL EXCLUSION

The Village of Bensenville (Village) Department of Public Works is replacing the Pressure Adjusting Station located at 130 North Church Road. This project will provide new water infrastructure to control flow to the Village’s potable water storage and distribution system. The Village is seeking loan assistance from the Illinois Environmental Protection Agency (IEPA) under the IEPA Public Water Supply Loan Program.

In accordance with the IEPA Loan Rules, Title 35, Subtitle F, Chapter II, Part 662.330 (State Environmental Review), the IEPA has determined that the Water Supply Pressure Adjusting Station Replacement Project (Project), may be excluded from a detailed environmental impacts review. The IEPA may categorically exclude certain types of projects from environmental reviews if no potential for negative environmental impacts exists. All proposed construction will occur outside the floodway and wetlands on previously disturbed land, and the Project has received categorical exclusion from a detailed environmental review.

Information related to the Project and Categorical Exclusion prepared by the IEPA are available for review at the Village of Bensenville Village Hall, located at 12 S. Center St, Bensenville, IL 60106. There will be a 10-day public comment period subsequent to the publication of this notice to receive comments from interested and affected parties. Comments may be submitted to the Village of Bensenville, Public Works Department, Attn Jeff Maczko, P.E. 717 E. Jefferson Street, Bensenville, IL 60106.

(Published in the Addison Independent, Bensenville Independent & Villa Park Review March 16, 2023)

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Board of Directors

George F. Hammersmith, Jr. Chairman of the Board

Fran Marcucci Decker Gonnella Baking Co.

Joshua Bretl FSR Wealth Strategies

Richard W. Reichert President & C.E.O.

Ken Bartels Sr. Vice President

Maryann Gorski

Martha Hammersmith-Delgado

Dr. Lawrence B. Carroll Elmhurst University

MOVING BENSENVILLE FORWARD

Early Voting March 20th - April 3rd at 345 E. Green St. Bensenville ote Tues, April 4th

Longtime Bensenville Resident

Active Member of Bensenville Neighborhood Watch Program

Zion Lutheran Church Ladies Aide and Member, Church Fellowship

Past Treasurer for Bensenville Community Foundation 2017- 2018

Volunteer Distributing Toys for the Village’s Annual Toy Drive

Contributed to the Success of Car Seat Giveaway Events

Campaign Office: 114 Green St. Bensenville | 224.661.0897

Longtime Bensenville Resident

Member, DuPage Mayor’s and Manager’s Caucus Legislative Committee

Master’s Degree in Business Administration from Elmhurst University

Assistant Vice President of Loan Operations for Millenium Bank

Volunteer for Toy Drive Distribution, Coffee with the Village President, Music in the Park and Holiday Magic

Advocate for the Bensenville Senior Community

50 Year Wood Dale/Bensenville Resident

Longtime Senior Luncheon Attendee

Volunteer at Bensenville Food Distribution Events During the Pandemic

Volunteer for Music in the Park, Liberty Fest, and Holiday Magic

Rosa, Nick, and Marie are passionate, independent leaders who put the best interests of Bensenville residents first. They will continue to protect taxpayers, preserve senior services, fight for government tranparency, and keep our neighborhoods safe.

Frank DeSimone, Village President

ROSA CARMONA Village Trustee NICHOLAS PANICOLA JR. Village Trustee

MARIE T. FREY Village Trustee