BI092123

Bensenville Independent

serving Wood dale

Fenton District 100, FEA tentatively agree to new contract

Vote to be taken at Sept. 27 Board meeting

The Fenton Community High School District 100 Board of Education has reached a tentative five-year agreement with the Fenton Education Association (FEA).

“Economic circumstances made this negotiation especially challenging for both sides, but we value our teachers and we thank them for their collaborative discussions,” Superintendent James Ongtengco said. “Fenton High School is a gem among DuPage area schools and we owe much of our success to the teachers who mentor our students day-in and day-out. We want to stay competitive and continue our school’s upward trajectory.”

“The Board of Education recognizes that Fenton is a cherished hub of our community,” School Board president Cary Lewis said. “We worked tirelessly to balance our appreciation for teachers with the needs of our taxpayers. Ultimately, a strong school fuels the local economy and helps our families grow. We are pleased to spend the next five years working together with our teachers to help prepare our students for their futures.”

The Board of Education will vote on the tentative agreement at the Sept. 27 Regular Board of Education Meeting.

Dale.

Bensenville Park District, Discover, KABOOM! unveil kid-designed playspace Community joins forces with nonprofit to advance playtime equity

On Thursday, Sept. 14, kids at Arbor Park in Wood Dale are celebrating as the Bensenville Park District debuts a kid-designed, community-built playground. The months-long collaboration between Bensenville Park District, Discov -

er, and KABOOM! culminated last week as more than 100 volunteers built the new playspace that will spark joy and foster a sense of belonging for kids each year in Wood Dale.

The new playground was a collaborative effort by community members, including kids, who presented creative ideas for their dream playground during a design day in June 2023.

“This part of Wood Dale was without an adequate playspace, and that was among the first things I heard from residents when I first started here,” said Bensenville Park District executive director Joseph C. Vallez.

“We made a promise to the residents of this area that we would build a safe place for children to

play in their neighborhood. Now, with their help and the help of the many volunteers and partners, they have a playspace they can be proud of.”

“Playgrounds are an iconic part of childhood. They’re not only where kids collect some of their best memories, but also where crucial skills are developed that nurture their physical, mental, and emotional well-being,” said Lysa Ratliff, CEO of KABOOM!. “KABOOM! is thrilled to work with our partners to bring to life the new playspace at Arbor Park and ensure that kids in Wood Dale have a place designed just for them, where they can play, learn, and unlock their greatest potential.”

Discover has provided support for the new playground through its

partnership with KABOOM!, furthering its commitment to ending playspace inequity.

“At Discover, we believe everyone should have access to a bright future. This starts by empowering our youth, providing opportunities for imaginative ideas, problem solving and building strong connections,” said Alyse Perkowitz, senior manager community affairs, Discover.

“Partnering with KABOOM! and the Bensenville Park District not only provides our employees a way to give back to their local communities but provides children a safe place to be themselves. We are excited to bring this playground to life and provide the community with a place to gather for years to come.”

SUBMITTED PHOTO Bensenville Independent

This family in their matching T-shirts takes part in some of the craft projects available at the grand opening of the new Arbor Park in Wood

Ahead of cash bail’s end, state’s replacement pretrial justice system takes shape

Courts will see longer detention hearings, new parameters for jailing accused defenders

By Jerry Nowicki and Hannah Meisel CAPITOL NEWS ILLINOIS

State courts in Illinois are now prohibited from jailing individuals who are accused—but not convicted—of crimes simply because they cannot afford to post bail while they await trial.

Monetary bond is now being abolished in favor of a system that seeks to give judges authority to detain defendants accused of committing violent crimes based on their level of risk to the community or of willful flight from prosecution.

The new system requires more robust hearings when someone’s freedom is on the line, while aiming to avoid disruptive pretrial incarceration if the accused person’s offense was nonviolent and they are not deemed a public safety or flight risk.

After a highly contentious election cycle last year in which Republicans used the so-called Pretrial Fairness Act to attack Democrats for being “soft on crime,” a series of legal challenges from state’s attorneys and sheriffs delayed the law’s implementation while the Illinois Supreme Court weighed its constitutionality.

In a partisan 5-2 decision in July, the court’s majority agreed that lawmaker-driven bail reform was constitutional, setting up a Sept. 18 statewide rollout for the law, more than nine months after the intended Jan. 1 start date.

State Sen. Robert Peters, D-Chicago, whose negotiations on the law made him a national figure—and a lightning rod for criticism—said at the time he knows the public debate over bail reform isn’t over, even if the legal battle is.

“Let me be clear: Cash bail delegitimizes criminal justice systems and transforms them into systems that violate public safety instead of upholding it,” Peters said in a news release. “Illinois will not go back. We will only move forward with our goal of ensuring public safety for all Illinoisans, regardless of their background or financial position.”

‘Detainable’ not equal to ‘handcuff-able’

The reform was driven by the Illinois Legislative Black Caucus in January 2021 in the wake of George Floyd’s murder in Minneapolis as an effort to address systemic racism in the criminal justice system. It was part of the broader SAFE-T Act criminal justice reform—short for Safety, Accountability, Fairness and Equity-Today.

An analysis of U.S. Department of Justice data by researchers at the Loyola University of Chicago Center for Criminal Justice showed that in 2019, half of jail detainees in Illinois were black compared to 15 percent of the state population; 33 percent were white compared to 76 percent of the population; and 14 percent were Hispanic compared to 18 percent of the

population.

Of those jailed, 89 percent were being held pretrial.

The PFA’s multi-pronged approach to limiting pretrial detention starts with law enforcement decisions in the field.

Under the law, officers retain the discretion to arrest any individual they believe to be a threat to the public safety or if they believe an arrest is the only way to keep the individual from continued violation of the law, like when a person is trespassing.

One major change, however, is that it directs—but does not require—officers to cite and release the individual if they are accused of a crime below a Class A misdemeanor, with a court date to be scheduled within 21 days.

Further changes occur at the judicial level after an arrest is made.

The PFA directly states the crimes and circumstances under which a judge can order an individual jailed as they await trial.

After weathering months of criticism and election season misinformation campaigns over the SAFE-T Act, Democratic lawmakers in December added to the list of offenses considered “detainable,” including any felony that involved the “threat of or infliction of great bodily harm or permanent disability or disfigurement.”

Another subset of crimes become detainable if a judge believes the defendant to be a flight risk.

Loyola’s CCJ analyzed arrest data from 2020 and 2021, concluding that a judge would not have been able to detain the defendant in 56 percent of arrests that occurred over that span had the PFA been in place.

But another analysis by the CCJ showed only 19 percent of individuals with pending felony cases were in jail while awaiting trial on average from 2017 through 2019, with another 17 percent on electronic monitoring or pretrial supervision.

That means about 64 percent of individuals awaiting trial for felony charges over that timespan were living in the community without any sort of supervision, the study found.

The research didn’t predict whether more or fewer defendants will be jailed while awaiting trial once the PFA takes effect. It did, however, predict that those facing lower-level charges will likely spend less time in jail, while stays may be lengthened for those accused of violent crime because they can no longer free themselves on bail if a judge orders them detained.

Lake County State’s Attorney Eric Rinehart, who supported the PFA, said the distinction between the law’s changes to judicial and law enforcement authority led to much of the misinformation that surrounded it in a contentious 2022 election season.

“The word ‘detainable’ became intermixed with the word ‘handcuff-able’… and I think police offi-

cers thought that they were going to be checking their cheat sheet under the SAFE-T Act as to whether or not they could handcuff a retail theft (suspect),” he said. “Police officers were directed not to cuff cooperative individuals who were not a threat to anyone, who were accused of committing a very small class of crimes, what we call (class) B and C misdemeanors.”

Those misdemeanors include such crimes as low-level property offenses that do not include violence.

Rinehart spoke at a media briefing last week organized by domestic violence survivor advocacy groups. Those groups, which worked with lawmakers to draft the law, noted it gives judges greater authority than previous law to detain individuals accused of domestic violence.

Madeleine Behr, policy director at the Chicago Alliance Against Sexual Exploitation, said state’s attorneys will—for the first time—be required to notify victims when a defendant has an initial detention hearing. The state will also be required to notify victims about the ability to obtain protective orders at the time of the initial and subsequent hearings.

Loyola researchers estimated 33 percent of those arrested in 2020 and 2021 would have been detainable based on their risk to the public, while 11 percent would have been detainable under the willful flight standard.

Domestic violence charges or violations of an order of protection made up about half the cases in which a person would have been detainable, per the research, as a detention hearing is required under the law when a defendant has violated an order of protection.

“And this really came from our community,” Behr said in the media briefing. “This came from our input—it’s recognizing the lethality and the harm at play when these kinds of violations happen.”

‘Least restrictive’ method necessary

One directive of the Pretrial Fairness Act was to ensure an individual’s appearance in court through the “least restrictive” means, meaning pretrial incarceration should be used only when necessary to ensure public safety.

For many counties, that could mean greater reliance on electronic monitoring, a type of GPS tracking that requires the defendant to wear an ankle bracelet and be tracked remotely by justice system professionals.

The PFA gives individuals on electronic monitoring two days each week to move freely to accomplish daily tasks—a departure from previous law. That provision has been ridiculed by conservatives and law enforcement groups who say that it grants too much freedom.

In 71 of Illinois’ 102 counties, electronic monitoring will be over-

seen by the Supreme Court’s Office of Statewide Pretrial Services, a newly formed state agency designed to assist counties with the PFA’s implementation and to fulfill a 1987 law that required all circuit courts to offer pretrial services.

It received a $23 million state appropriation for the current fiscal year after a $26 million allotment last year, which included allocations for start-up costs.

For OSPS-affiliated counties, defendants ordered to wear ankle monitors will have their movements tracked from a centralized location in Springfield with round-the-clock staffing. Electronic monitoring officers ensure defendants aren’t approaching geographically marked “exclusion zones” where the individual is prohibited from approaching. Those could include a perimeter around a person’s home if they are on house arrest or around a victim’s home if the defendant is the subject of an order of protection.

“If we have an exclusion zone case, or we have a situation where we think a defendant is attempting to remove their device, we can contact law enforcement and seek their assistance to help us remedy or respond to a violation,” retired judge Cara Smith, director of the OSPS, said in an interview.

Electronic monitoring can only be ordered by a judge, and the mission of the OSPS is to carry out those monitoring requirements once they are ordered. It’s one of several services the office offers to its member courts.

The Illinois Network for Pretrial Justice advocacy organization, however, is wary of expanding the use of electronic monitoring in the wake of cash bond’s end.

“Requiring anyone to wear an ankle shackle and be monitored in lieu of having to pay bond is an injustice that is in direct conflict with the spirit of the law and its intended impact,” the organization said in a statement.

The OSPS also pays for electronic monitoring services in its counties, costs that were previously borne by the defendant in many counties.

A new process takes shape

Under previous law, bail hearings typically occurred within 72 hours of arrest, lasting fewer than five minutes. Prosecutors would detail the defendant’s charges and potentially recommend a bail amount. The judge would then decide the conditions of their release, including how much money, if any, the defendant must post before their release.

The overhaul of the system was driven by the concern that decisions about a person’s freedom weren’t receiving enough scrutiny in court.

Now, it will still be up to state’s attorneys to petition the court to detain an individual prior to their trial. But upon that petition, a new, more robust pretrial process will begin. Un-

der it, the defendant is given the right to legal representation at their first hearing, with the detention hearing typically taking place within 24 or 48 hours of the first appearance in court.

The new process allows a defendant to have a public defender or private attorney at their first appearance, while also placing a greater emphasis on counties to provide pretrial services aimed at assuring a defendant’s appearance in court while also connecting them with supports focused on limiting recidivism.

For Nathan Rowland, a part-time contract public defender for Gallatin and Hamilton counties in the far southeastern corner of Illinois, that means he’ll be busier than ever before in his two-decade career as a public defender. Rowland, who works out of his private office in McLeansboro, said he still has many unanswered questions as to how the system will work.

But he also said he believes the justice system has for years been “lazily” substituting high-dollar bonds for “a particularized dangerousness finding,” which will be a requirement for keeping a defendant in jail under the PFA. And for many of his low-income clients—especially those accused of non-violent crimes—abolishing cash bail will mean they won’t languish in jail simply because they can’t afford to post bond.

“You get removed from your life and when you come back to it two weeks later or three months later, it’s in complete shambles,” Rowland said of individuals who are detained pretrial.

On Aug. 30, the Supreme Court issued an order allowing counties to hold detention hearings remotely through March 18, 2024, due to the anticipated volume of new cases and limited resources in certain areas of the state.

A new state agency takes shape

Of Illinois’ 102 counties, 31 have administered their own pretrial services for a varying number of years.

The other 71 will be served by the OSPS.

Smith said the agency she leads has grown from about 10 employees in June 2022 to more than 170, and it is up and running in 70 counties, with Will County to be added to the list in October. It’s secured office space in 47 counties in addition to its central operations center in Springfield.

Its employees work to connect individuals with such support services as drug or behavioral health treatment, anger management or any other conditions imposed by the court. It also sends text message reminders of hearings among other outreach and scheduling efforts.

But perhaps its most important task alongside electronic monitoring, Smith said, was offering a “neutral”

A message from the Village president DeSimone praises eventful summer; looks ahead to fall

The following communique was received from the office of Bensenville Village President Frank DeSimone:

“As Village President, one of the aspects of my job that matters most to me is to interact, celebrate, and bring together our community. In Bensenville, we have seen how strong our community is when we are united, and this summer was no different.

“Over the past three months, our community has hosted a variety of different events for our residents to gather and enjoy the warm summer weather. I had the chance to

meet many of our neighbors at Coffee with the President and support new businesses in our community with the ribbon cutting at two new local restaurants.

Luncheon, and even celebrated one of our resident’s 100th birthday. Our local police and firefighters had the chance to connect with our residents on our National Night Out and our Public Works team was able to showcase their important work at their open house event.

IndependenT

Park.

“This summer was unlike any other and had a little bit of everything for our residents. Even though the warm weather might be fading, our team at Village Hall is excited to continue to organize great events for our community this fall!”

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“As a community, we were able to support our youngest residents as they prepared to return to the classroom at our Back-to-School event, our oldest residents at our monthly Senior

Frank DeSimone

“We got to show our colors and celebrate the founding of our country at our Libertyfest and Parade. We got to dress in pink for Barbie at the Bensenville Theatre and experience the smooth sounds of Motown from The Moods in our last Music In The

Frank DeSimone has served as the Village President of Bensenville since 2017. He is currently serving in his second term after being reelected in 2021. He previously served on the Village Board as a Trustee from 2015-17.

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This group displays the Subie plush dogs they received from Grand Subaru at last year’s Harvest Fest at Fischer Farm. Grand Subaru is the major sponsor of this year’s event as well, set for Saturday, Sept. 30 at Fischer Farm. Come get your own Subie dog.

Grand Subaru to sponsor

Advertising: Brenda Garcia

District’s Harvest Fest Local dealership to offer ‘Subie’ plush toys to kids

The Bensenville Park District has announced that Grand Subaru in Bensenville has generously stepped up as a major sponsor of the highly-anticipated Harvest Fest scheduled to take place on Saturday, Sept. 30 at Fischer Farm, 16W680 Grand Avenue.

“Grand Subaru always loves being a part of community events,” said Ryan Drouin, general manager of Grand Subaru. “We’re excited for a day full of family fun, and we’re happy that we can give back to the same neighbors who have done so much for us.”

In addition to its significant financial support, Grand Subaru is actively promoting Harvest Fest at their dealership, through their website, email, and various social media channels.

“We recognize Grand Subaru’s many contributions to the Bensenville community, including donations to charitable organizations and participation in community activities,” said Joe Vallez, executive director of the Bensenville Park District. “Their support of Earth Day at Fischer Farm in April 2023 showcased their commitment to our community. We are pleased to partner with such a fine organization again to help us elevate one of our signature events.”

Grand Subaru is situated just a few blocks

Park

from the farm at 125 W. Grand Ave. in Bensenville. Grand Subaru will be operating “Subie World,” a dedicated family activity area named after their beloved mascot. In addition, Grand Subaru will be giving out free Plush Subie Dogs along with a choice of many costumes to accessorize the stuffed animal. Visitors will have access to an animal observation area as well as other familyfriendly activities.

Last year’s three-day Harvest Fest event drew several thousand people and featured live music, food and drinks, and a wide range of activities such as kite flying, goat feeding, bounce houses, art vendors, crafts, pumpkin painting, carnival games and more. This year’s event will include live performances from six different talented acts.

Here’s a sneak peek at the stellar musical lineup:

Miss Jamie’s Farm (12 noon - 1 p.m.): Kickstarting the festivities, Miss Jamie’s Farm is a popular music show for young kids and their families, sharing values from life down on the farm through songs both new and familiar. Sing, dance, laugh and learn with Miss Jamie and her farm animal friends.

Dan Asio (1-2, 4-5 p.m.): Dan Asio is

a “friendly, neighborhood musician and songwriter” with influences from almost every genre across multiple generations of music. His songs can be described as a personal, contemplative commentary on life—a synthesis of many sounds and ideas, past and present, paired with the today’s world.

Ryan Herrick Duo (2-4 p.m.): Ryan

Herrick has sojourned guitar-in-hand from the mountains of Vermont to the foothills of Chicago’s skyscrapers and beyond. The guitar—his accomplice—served as the brush with which to paint his experiences as an inner journeyman; a wayward son who left home in search of himself.

Alika Arlynn Band (5-7 p.m.): Alika Arlynn is a country rock singer influenced by her Midwestern roots and her love of rock n’ roll. The Illinois native sounds like Carrie Underwood, has a unique style like Sheryl Crow and is as sassy as Gretchen Wilson. Her singles, “My Devotion,” “Bows Before Bros,” and “Bring It” have earned airtime on Chicago’s Big 95.5 FM.

For more information about Harvest Fest, including tickets, activities, directions, and parking details, please visit BvilleParks.org/ harvestfest.

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Slices of life

Life is tenuous

The more years I accumulate on this earth, the more I realize life is tenuous. It is short. It is fleeting. It is fragile. It is ethereal. It is delicate. It is beyond beautiful.

It can be abrupt and unexpected. Unanticipated, not to mention amazing.

Unpredictable at its best. You never know what will come next.

And that is part of the magic, as well as the reality - or perhaps the fear. Life is a miracle—for each of us. Every moment of every day.

Imagine this. Fathom. Understand. Consider. Contemplate it. Seriously contemplate it - for more than just a second or two.

Our eyes peer out into the world, refracting light rays and transforming them into images which become electrical impulses that are carried to the brain. Our ears convert sound waves into a format the brain interprets and understands as meaningful sounds. Our tongues differentiate between sweet, sour, salty, bitter and savory tastes. Our noses can detect one trillion (with a T) different distinct scents. Our fingers are packed with thousands of nerve endings, allowing us to interpret the size, shape and texture of objects. We don’t often think about (or appreciate) our five senses. They just are.

Our hearts beat without us ever giving any conscious thought to the process. Our lungs take in air and separate oxygen from carbon dioxide, using the former and expelling the latter.

Our blood circulates said oxygen throughout our limbs, organs and skin. Our liver and kidneys remove toxins. Our skin regenerates without a thought. Every cell in our body does the same. Our body temperature regulates itself. Fingernails, toenails and hair all grow without any effort on our part.

We breathe. We blink. We heal. We digest food. We poop. All without having to consciously will any of it into being.

By Jill Pertler Columnist

We are alive because this amazing system works to keep us afloat without any conscious effort on our part. It’s like that pink bunny: it just keeps going.

One wrong turn—one system out of whack—and the whole body is off kilter. One domino down and they all could fall.

Tenuous.

But beautiful. And predictable.

Yet not.

Life is anything but predictable. You think you know what lies ahead. You plan it all out because it seems so simple and obvious—clear as a bell. Clear as hell. How else could it be?

But life is seldom obvious. That would be too easy.

It is obscure. Uncertain. Often unknown and unsure. Vague at best.

But wonderful and wonder-filled. The obscurity keeps us guessing. The uncertainty makes it more beautiful. The unknown and unsure make it exciting. Even vagueness creates wonder and wonderment.

If life were predictable, if it were promised and secure it wouldn’t be as valuable. It wouldn’t be as precious.

And the more you notice - really notice and become aware of the miracles right within you – the more you appreciate it all. Your sight, hearing, sense of taste, touch and smell.

Your beating heart. Your breath. The beautiful, tenuous truth of life. All of it.

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

Guidelines for writing, submitting a letter to the editor

Rock Valley Publishing encourages our readers to reach out to the community by writing a letter to the editor.

Letters are limited to 400 words; if a letter exceeds 400 words, it will be sent back to the author to reduce the length of the letter. Authors must include their first and last name, the city or village in which they reside, and a phone number and email address where they can be reached if there are any questions.

Send letters to: independent@rvpublishing.com

Letter-writers will be limited to one letter per month, except for locally elected officials, or individuals specifically associated with local village governments or entities such as school districts, park districts or library districts.

No letters directed to a third party will be accepted for publication. We reserve the right to edit a letter for reasons of clarity, space restrictions and libel.

Implementing the Pretrial Fairness Act

Editor’s note: The opinions expressed here are those of the author.

By Amanda Pyron ExEcutivE DirEctor, thE NEtwork

In mid-September, Illinois will move one step further in the pursuit of justice by exchanging risk for wealth as a determinant of safety when making pretrial release decisions.

As someone with 25 years of experience as an advocate for survivors, most spent working in our federal criminal legal system that has long operated without money bail, I know risk-based decision making can keep survivors of gender-based violence and the public safe.

Since the Pretrial Fairness Act was passed in 2021, opponents have used fearmongering and misinformation to derail its success. Over recent months, it has become clear that some public officials are still not ready for this new system, nor are they doing enough to prepare for these changes.

We routinely saw survivors used as pawns during the political debate over this bill, and sadly that continues. Misinformation continues to come from state’s attorneys themselves or their allies in law enforcement who oppose the law. In a recent story published by WGLT, McLean County State’s Attorney Erika Reynolds falsely claimed that some people charged with domestic violence couldn’t be jailed under the new law.

In fact, all people charged with domestic violence, both as a misdemeanor or felony, can be held in jail pretrial when there are public safety concerns. No one charged with

an offense of domestic violence will be released without a hearing. Notice to survivors, along with an offer to petition for a domestic violence order of protection, is required before an initial hearing. These are all powers given to states’ attorneys to keep survivors safe and informed of all their options at each stage of their case.

The Pretrial Fairness Act is being implemented this week after years of advocacy by organizations combatting gender-based violence. Our community specifically drafted provisions in the law to require notice from states’ attorneys offices to victims ahead of the initial hearings, when that hearing was previously exempted from the list of hearings requiring victim notification by states attorneys.

We also drafted language to ensure offenses like sex crimes, trafficking and domestic violence are on the list of offenses that require police, prosecutors and judges to take extra time with these cases. With more time, survivor safety will be at the forefront of every decision, rather than having cases moved as quickly as possible.

We also worked to ensure that all states’ attorneys must file a petition to detain a defendant for any violation of protective order, knowing the potential lethality and safety issues at play when a protective order is violated. These are the critical provisions that, coupled with the end of wealth-based incarceration, will create a more survivor-centered pretrial system.

The time has come to ensure our court actors understand the law

and will fully implement this law to protect survivors. Any failure to implement—including notice to survivors of initial hearings, provision of a protective order when requested, or completion of a risk assessment when needed—will put individual survivors and communities at greater risk for repeated harm. By reducing pretrial jailing for most offenses, court actors can finally turn their attention to where it should be: on higher level offenses like domestic violence and sexual assault that affect public safety and survivors.

When our elected officials and law enforcement perpetuate misinformation about the law, they put survivors at risk by misstating their rights under this new system. Survivors deserve to know how exactly their county state’s attorney and local law enforcement will enforce the new law, and ensure it upholds public safety for all people. It is imperative we set aside political differences and implement the law correctly so all survivors across Illinois can get the rights and opportunities afforded to them under the SAFE-T Act.

Illinois should be proud to be the first state in the country to abolish money bail, and center survivorcentered practices into its pretrial system. We call on states’ attorneys and law enforcement to join us to prepare our communities and survivors for this new and improved system.

Amanda Pyron is executive director of The Network, an antigender-based-violence organization in Chicago that helped draft and pass the Pretrial Fairness Act.

Hi, Lombard calling here. I just want to give a big shout-out to the employee at the Lombard Post Office who always takes up the very first spot at the post office with their vehicle, and doesn’t have consideration for the patrons of the post office, but instead will choose to park in that first spot when there’s plenty of older and handicapped folks who could use that spot. Yet this person chooses to not park in the employee parking. Thanks so much. Great job.

I’m hearing and reading that this law to eliminate cash bail is about to begin. This state is the only state that has now completely eliminated cash bail. I can hardly wait. There are 102 counties in Illinois. Nearly all of the state’s attorneys in these counties, both Democrat and Republican, opposed doing away with cash bail. I am not optimistic at all that this is going to work, and I fear that criminals are going to be even more emboldened than they already are.

Hello, Addison calling. I recently renewed my driver’s license at the Lombard location. I did it before Sept. 1. Just wanted to let you know everyone there was so efficient, helpful and pleasant. Just wanted to inquire why I had to take the driving test last year and this year, when I will be 86. The new license does not expire for two years, which I am grateful for. Did the new secretary of state change the rules? Thank you. * * *

Another District 87 referendum on the horizon. Just what taxpayers needed right now. Not good. Thank you.

Hey Biden voters, why aren’t you welcoming illegal migrants into your homes? There are reportedly hundreds of these migrants staying at O’Hare International Airport and at Chicago police stations. A vote for Biden was a vote for open borders. Everyone with a brain knew that. Besides, Chicago proudly declared itself a sanctuary city. It’s easy to proclaim your city as a sanctuary city for migrants who entered the country illegally. It’s not so easy when the migrants actually show up.

* * *

Ban gas stoves and fossil fuel. Men can get pregnant? The weather can control your electricity and power your car? How can we logically believe anything the government dictates? * * *

Isn’t that interesting, the Chicago Public Schools teachers union president sends her child to private school, and has the mayor of Chicago in her back pocket. And now the United Auto Workers want more than a 30 percent pay increase. And only want to work 32 hours. Oh boy. I think the time for unions has passed. They had their place in the past, but now they’re all corrupt. Well, maybe Trump will fix that. Hardy har-har. * * *

Here’s a quote from a 2019 text that Hunter Biden sent to his daughter Naomi. “But don’t worry, unlike Pop, I won’t make you give me half your salary.” Hunter has reportedly raked in millions from Ukraine, China and other countries for no apparent service in return. He reportedly set up several shell companies to conceal the money, which allegedly made its way to several Biden family members.

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Will any Democrats ever remove their heads from the sand and admit that the Biden family appears to be corrupt?

I voted for Donald Trump twice, so that hardly makes me a never-Trumper. I certainly don’t want to see Biden get re-elected. Biden is incoherent, and his policies have been terrible, especially those that have led to all this inflation and this continuing crisis on the southern border. However, I am hoping Republican voters nominate someone else to be the nominee. It’s time to move on from Donald Trump. Just about anyone currently running for the GOP nomination, except for Chris Christie and Asa Hutchinson, would make a good president. Trump makes everything about himself. If he’s the nominee, it will be all about relitigating the 2020 election instead of addressing the issues. And how much time is he going to have to take away from the campaign trail going into court for these indictments?

* * *

Let’s face it. Our country would be better off if Trump was still president. Our southern border would be protected, and illegal immigration wouldn’t be out of control.

There wouldn’t be a war on domestic energy production, so gas prices would be lower. That would make food and just about everything else less expensive. Trump wouldn’t have signed off on the green-energy boondoggles that Biden and the Democrats supported, and we probably wouldn’t be shoveling billions of dollars to the mess in Ukraine. Additionally, Democrats would only have to put up with Trump for another 17 months or so. Admit it. Biden has been a total disaster.

* * *

One more item about the socalled crotch rockets. The other day I was traveling southbound on I-294 in the late afternoon and an overhead sign gave a warning that there was a miles-long back-up due to a crash, with the two left lanes closed. Once I got to the crash site, crews were there in the aftermath cleaning up a lot of debris, but still there was a motorcycle—you guessed it, a crotch rocket—lying on its side, mangled and smashed. On the opposite shoulder, four lanes over, was a motorcycle helmet just lying there. I would be very surprised if the rider(s) survived. If so, they were likely seriously injured. These high-speed roadways are no place for these vehicles. They are a

menace due to the recklessness of the driver.

* * *

Everybody wake up. Look at what’s happening in our world. This is not global warming; this is Revelation. You need to believe in the Father and the Son. God says clearly in the Bible that this day would come. It’s happening all over the world. There’s chaos everywhere. It’s time for us to pray. We are not listening to God. We are not doing the will of the Father. We are killing each other. We are letting people get away with murder. I pray for the world, and I hope the rest of you wake up to understand what is coming. May God bless everybody. In Jesus’ name, amen. * * *

It would be great if Speak Out only listed local problems or local news. If you have a political question or comment, call your representative. Thank you. * * *

We loyal Democrats need to find someone who is more qualified to be our president than the status quo. If we don’t have a good candidate soon, the early voters in 2024 will pass us by for a Republican and we lose the Super Bowl game of politics.

Helen Plum Library earns conservation certification

Helen Plum Library is honored to announce the reception of the Conservation@Work certification from The Conservation Foundation (TCF) of DuPage County.

Committed to protecting the environment, the TCF recognizes organizations that transform landscapes for the benefit of people and the environment through their Conservation@ Work certification program. Helen Plum Library employed these con-

Coming events

GPS program Sept. 27

The Glenbard Parent Series: (GPS) Navigating Healthy Families will present its community read, “The Promise of a Pencil: How an Ordinary Person Can Create Extraordinary Change,” with New York Times bestselling author Adam Braun at 7 p.m. Wednesday, Sept. 27, via Zoom. Go to glenbardgps.org for further information and the links to this webinar. This year’s community read is a riveting memoir about an ordinary person creating extraordinary change—something Braun believes everyone can do. Braun will share inspirational insights

• Bail

servation-based principles through the design of their new building and is earning the Conservation@Work certification.

Helen Plum Library will be recognized for its careful commitment to the new site’s landscape and stormwater design. The library will receive a sign recognizing its efforts as well as advice on how to continue making a positive environmental impact at the new Library site.

To celebrate this recognition, the library will host a reception on Wednesday, Sept. 27, at 5.p.m. in the Plum Meeting Rooms, sponsored by Environmental Consulting & Technology (ECT).

The new library’s Landscape Architect, Jason Cooper from ECT, and Conservation Foundation experts will speak about the library’s conservation distinction and future goals. Light refreshments will be served.

and tools that can lead to finding meaning and making a difference. 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.

Plum Library programs

Genealogy Workshop – “The Old Northwest: Researching the Great Lakes States” Monday, Sept. 25, at 7 p.m. This presentation will review the history of the “Old Northwest” and suggest research strategies for

(Continued from page 2)

report about a defendant’s history to judges, public defenders and state’s attorneys prior to a first appearance in court.

Those reports take about an hour to prepare and usually include an interview with the defendant, a process that starts with identifying new defendants daily and carving out time to conduct interviews. The agency has completed more than 18,000 such investigations since August 2022, Smith said.

Smith said when she was a judge in juvenile court in Cook County, “you didn’t have sort of that neutral

presentation.”

The presentation, she said, includes: “’Here’s what we know about this individual,’ including a detailed criminal history, if it exists, and information about, ‘are they employed, are they in school? What’s the home situation like?’”

Rowland said those services have been invaluable, noting he’d often enter a hearing room without knowing anything about the defendant he was about to represent.

The “million-dollar question,” Smith said, is how the office can best support individuals to limit them

the territorial period and each of the subsequent states. Register at helenplum.org or by calling 630-6270316.

Conservation Foundation Certification Celebration Wednesday, Sept. 27, at 5 p.m. You are invited for a celebration of this recognition where we will hear from our library Landscape Architect, Jason Cooper, from Environmental Consulting & Technology (ECT), and The Conservation Foundation experts. Light refreshments will be served. Sponsored by ECT. Register at helenplum.org or by calling 630-627-0316.

from reoffending.

“We have a support services staff who look to identify resources that might help a person succeed,” she said. “But you know, we will have— and there always have been—pretrial failures where someone… continues to engage in criminal activity.”

The new system, Smith said, will provide a more targeted approach for detention.

“I think the idea under the PFA is that we’ll be better able to identify people whose dangerousness is such that they should be detained pretrial, and everyone else is out,” she said.

out& about

Former firefighter now an author Ron Rakosnik reaches out to young children with new book

Career firefighter Ron Rakosnik spent a number of years reading books to young children in the local schools, and at one point realized there was not much material available that addresses fire safety and what to do in case of an emergency.

So, with necessity being the mother of invention—as the saying goes—he decided to do something about it: He wrote a book on the subject, with young children in mind.

The recently released book is called “Firefighters Are Friends,” and it has kindergartener Jimmy learning more than his ABCs—he meets Firefighter Fred, who comes to the boy’s school to talk about fire safety.

Rakosnik was a paid-on-call firefighter with the York Center Fire Department (as was his father) in the 1970s and joined the Lombard Fire Department in 1986 as a firefighter/ paramedic. Around 1996 he was promoted to lieutenant, then battalion chief in 2006, and retired in 2012.

Rakosnik then became fire chief with the Villa Park Fire Department, where he served for 10 years before retiring in October 2022.

“When I became a battalion chief in Lombard I started to go read to the kindergartens in Lombard schools,” Rakosnik recalled, which he did for about six years.

“When I was done reading, they [students] could ask me questions,” he continued, sometimes related not to the book, but about his job as a firefighter.

When he joined the Villa Park Fire Department, the former chief would read to young students during Fire Prevention Week each year in October, and recounted one instance where he read a book about “a house fire that was started by a dragon.”

In the book, Rakosnik continued, the fire department comes and puts out the fire.

“That’s what gave me the incentive to write a book,” he explained.

In “Firefighters,” young readers meet Jimmy, and read about how Firefighter Fred visits his school to talk about fire department equipment, but more importantly, he teaches the children about calling 911, learning their address, identifying the problem and knowing how to get out of the house safely and meet at a predetermined destination.

In the book, Rakosnik also emphasizes the importance of having working smoke detectors.

Jimmy also visits the fire station where Firefighter Fred works, and he gets to see an ambulance and fire trucks up close and personal. Illustrations explain the working parts of the vehicles, Rakosnik said.

“My book is interactive,” he added, yet, “It’s got to be simplified” to

reach ages 3-6, although he noted that the target audience is kindergarten-age children.

Jimmy is so inspired that he decides to become a firefighter like Fireman Fred, who one day tells the students he visits that a new firefighter will be talking to them. Guess who it is?

“I started writing the book in December [2022],” Rakosnik said. He finished the book in June. He related that he worked with a publishing company in Florida, which provided the illustrators.

“They were from the United Kingdom,” he added with a chuckle, mentioning the back-and-forth emails during the process.

Due to the size of the book, “If you’re reading to a group of kids,

they can see the pictures,” Rakosnik said of the illustrations.

He said that as an incident commander, he saw that there were times when a family had no common meeting place in the event of a fire or other emergency, adding solemnly, “It does happen.”

So, besides putting an emphasis on having working smoke detectors in the home, Rakosnik decided to make that one of the focal points of the book, commenting, “Early education [can teach] these kids to get outside and have a meeting place. That’s huge.”

Rakosnik wants parents to get something out of the book as well, so they and their children can have See FireFighter, Page 15

PHOTO By Al sTAscH Rock Valley Pubishing Former Lombard firefighter/paramedic and retired Villa Park Fire Department Chief Ron Rakosnik has written a children’s book, titled “Firefighters Are Friends,” to help young children learn how to react in the event of an emergency, such as a fire. He also hopes to inspire boys and girls to consider becoming a firefighter/paramedic, like Jimmy, the book’s main character, does. (Book cover reprinted with permission).

Emergency appeal for blood donations

State’s blood supply at a dangerously low point, putting patients at risk

Versiti Blood Center of Illinois has issued an emergency appeal for blood donations, pleading with community members to make an appointment to donate blood in the coming days. Heading into the fall, Versiti has seen a drastic drop in scheduled appointments, with nearly 2,500 open appointments over the next seven days.

“This is the lowest our blood inventory has been in over a year,

which could mean that blood is not available when it’s needed the most,” said Dr. Dan Waxman, vice president of transfusion medicine and senior medical director at Versiti. “We are seeing fewer first-time donors walking through our doors, which is adding to an already dangerous situation, and we need the community to step up and donate.”

Versiti estimates that around 20

percent of its donors are first-time donors; unfortunately, more than 50 percent of those donors only donate once. With an aging donor base and increased need, first-time blood donors are desperately needed.

“Our loyal donors continue to hear our pleas and roll up their sleeves, for which we are extremely grateful,” added Dr. Waxman. “However, if every eligible donor could pledge to

Battery manufacturing plant coming to Illinois with $530 million incentive deal

By Andrew Adams Capitol News illiNois

A new battery manufacturing plant is set to open in northern Illinois next year after the state offered more than $330 million in tax incentives to make it happen.

Gotion, a Chinese battery manufacturing and development company, announced on Sept. 8 that it will build a lithium-ion battery manufacturing facility in Manteno, about 50 miles south of Chicago.

The roughly $2 billion project is set to create 2,600 jobs and begin production in 2024. The plant will produce battery cells, battery packs like the kinds used in electric vehicles and large-scale energy storage systems.

Gov. JB Pritzker called the development “the most significant new manufacturing investment in Illinois in decades.”

In total, the state and local governments offered Gotion more than $536 million in incentives and tax breaks, according to Pritzker’s office.

The company is the fifth to make a deal with the state under the twoyear-old Reimagining Energy and Vehicles, or REV, program. Under the deal finalized on Thursday, the state will provide $213 million in tax credits to the company over the next 30 years – nearly nine times more than the previous four deals combined. Gotion’s agreement is contingent on a minimum investment of $1.9 billion among other stipulations.

Gotion is also set to receive $125 million for capital funds from a $400 million pot of money overseen by Pritzker’s office that is sometimes referred to as a “closing fund.” This discretionary fund was approved by lawmakers for the current budget year, giving Pritzker the authority to offer businesses incentives to relocate to Illinois beyond those offered in other state programs.

A Pritzker spokesperson said the negotiations between the state and Gotion started approximately two years ago.

The company also worked out a deal with Kankakee County to cap the taxes paid on the approximately 150-acre property at $2 million per year for the next 30 years, according to Kankakee County Board Chair Andrew Wheeler.

The chairman of Gotion’s parent company in a statement on Sept. 8 said that the group was drawn to Illinois because of “an enabling business environment” and “a supportive state government.”

The company produces lithium iron phosphate cells for groups like Volkswagen. The German automotive manufacturer is the largest single shareholder in Gotion’s parent company, Gotion High-tech, and the two companies share a strategic framework for developing battery cells, according to Volkswagen’s 2022 annual report.

Gotion is also in the process of setting up a plant in Michigan. This has sparked controversy from Republicans in that state, who cite concerns about the company’s Chinese ownership.

Illinois Senate President Don Harmon, D-Oak Park, used the announcement ceremony to advertise Illinois to other companies looking to select locations for new developments, declaring that “Illinois is open for business.”

“We are a leader in the Midwest of clean energy job creation, putting us on the forefront of a rapidly expanding industry,” Harmon said.

Another player in the deal announced was Intersect Illinois, a public-private partnership set up by former-Gov. Bruce Rauner to attract businesses to Illinois. The group’s CEO, Dan Seals, said his organization helped Gotion with site selection for its Manteno project.

“This is the biggest project I’ve seen in my years of economic development,” he told Capitol News Illinois. “It’s a big deal for the electric vehicle industry, it’s a big deal for Manteno, it’s a big deal for Illinois.”

Seals said the Manteno project’s central location in the U.S. is a key selling point for EV companies.

“Batteries have strategic value to the electric vehicle industry,” Seals said. “Batteries are heavy. Auto manufacturers don’t want to be too far and have to ship them.”

Earlier this summer, Canadian manufacturer Lion Electric opened a 900,000 square foot factory in Joliet. The plant will focus on building electric buses and trucks and the company says it will eventually have a production capacity of 20,000 vehicles per year.

donate at least twice by the end of the year and encourage a friend or family member to give blood donation a try as well, the impact on the local blood supply would be significant and save lives.”

While Versiti strives for a threeday supply of available blood for local hospitals, the organization currently has less than a one-day supply on the shelves. Not only does this potentially put people’s lives at risk, but it limits the ability to respond to the need for blood should the unexpected occur.

What to know about blood donation

• Every two seconds, someone needs lifesaving blood to survive. One donation can save up to three lives.

• The donation process, including registration and testing, takes about an hour. Because your body constantly replaces blood and fluids, blood donation doesn’t take a major toll on the human body.

• There is no substitute for blood donation—blood cannot be manufac-

tured. It can only come from volunteer donors.

• Roughly 68 percent of Americans can donate blood, but only about 3 percent do so.

• Blood donation can help patients of all ages who are victims of traumatic accidents, patients of organ transplants, or fighting through diseases like cancer.

All blood types are needed, with types O-positive and O-negative most in demand.

O-positive is the most common blood type, while O-negative blood is the universal type that can be received safely by all patients in emergencies when the blood type is unknown.

Anyone age 16 or older in good health who meets eligibility requirements is encouraged to give. Parental consent is required for donors age 16 to donate blood. Donors should bring a photo ID that includes their birth date.

To find a location or to schedule an appointment to donate blood, call (800) 786-4483 or visit versiti.org. Walk-in donors are also welcome.

But the state has also had some misses when it comes to battery manufacturing. U.S. Senator Dick Durbin, a Democrat from Springfield, told reporters in 2021 that there were talks with Samsung to bring a battery manufacturing plant to Bloomington-Normal.

But that plant, a partnership between Samsung and automotive company Stellantis, eventually went to central Indiana. Stellantis later “idled” its Jeep manufacturing plant in Belvidere, citing the rising costs of EV manufacturing as a contributing factor.

In addition to state efforts to court manufacturers, consumers in Illinois are increasingly turning to EVs and other battery-powered cars.

Since 2018, more than 186,000 EVs and hybrid vehicles have been licensed in Illinois, according to data from the secretary of state’s office. There were about 80,000 fully electric cars on Illinois roads as of Aug. 15, about eight times as many as there were at the same time in 2018.

The state of Illinois offers support on the consumer side of the EV equation as well. As part of the 2021 Climate and Equitable Jobs Act, the state gives $4,000 tax rebates for EVs and $1,500 on electric motorcycles.

“

t his is the biggest project i ’ve seen in my years of economic development. i t’s a big deal for the electric vehicle industry, it’s a big deal for Manteno, it’s a big deal for i llinois.”

– Dan Seals CEO Intersect Illinois

Woman charged with retail theft, burglary from Oak Brook Macy’s

Suspect, juvenile accomplices allegedly stole more than $3,000 from retailer

DuPage County State’s Attorney Robert Berlin and Oak Brook Chief of Police Brian Strockis have announced that bond has been set for a woman with no known address accused of stealing approximately $3,083 worth of merchandise from the Macy’s department store located at 1 Oakbrook Center in Oak Brook.

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

Sept. 11

A 34-year-old Addison man was charged with two counts of domestic battery in the 1300 block of Heather Court at 3:33 p.m.

Sept. 10

Olivia F. Eder, 24, of Lombard, was charged with DUI, speeding and improper lane usage near Woodland and Rohlwing at 2:26 a.m.

Matthew L. Moy, 37, of Wood Dale, was charged with two counts of DUI and speeding in the 1-100 block of E. Lake at 12:49 a.m.

Luis A Vanegas, 24, of Chicago, was charged with two counts of DUI and stopping/standing/parking in a non-business district near Villa and Fullerton at 4:10 a.m.

Pablo Vilchis, 49, of Wood Dale, was charged with DUI-drugs, stopping/standing/parking in a non-business district and no insurance near Lake and Villa at 2:46 a.m.

Sept. 8

A 29-year-old Addison man was charged with two counts of domestic battery in the 300 block of W. Fullerton at 6:41 p.m.

Sept. 6

Miguel O. Ramos Ramos, 22, of Addison, was charged with DUI and speeding 40-plus mph over the limit near Addison and Palmer at midnight.

Sept. 5

An 18-year-old Addison man was charged with three counts of domestic battery and obstructing an officer in the 1500 block of Mulloy at 1:55 a.m.

Sept. 4

Steven M. Adams, 37, of Wood Dale, was charged with DUI, leaving the scene of an accident and speeding near Addison and Lincoln at 8:55 p.m.

Justin M. Johnson, 41, of Chicago, was charged with DUI in the 1100 block of N. Swift at 4:49 a.m.

Nolberto J. Puche-Arias, 38, of Villa Park, was charged with DUI and disregarding a traffic control device near Addison and Diversey at 12:27 a.m.

Florica Nicolae-Dirivan, 46, appeared at a bond hearing where Judge Joshua Dieden set bond at $10,000 with 10 percent to apply. The state had asked for a bond of $150,000 with 10 percent to apply.

Nicolae-Dirivan is charged with one count of contributing to the delinquency of a minor (Class 1 felo-

ny), one count of burglary (Class 2 felony) and one count of retail theft (Class 3 felony). The juveniles, a 14-year-old female and a 15-year-old female, appeared at a detention hearing where Judge Demetrios Panoushis ordered that they be released to the custody of their father. They are each charged with one count of burglary

Sept. 3

Ruben Cabrera Fajardo, 32, of Ad-

dison, was charged with DUI and improper lane usage near Addison and Moreland at 9:57 p.m.

Sept. 2

Edelmar V. Carrillo Carrillo, 35, of Addison, was charged with two counts of DUI and possession of a controlled substance in the 600 block of N. Lincoln at 9:07 p.m.

A 29-year-old Addison woman was charged with two counts of domestic battery in the 700 block of Meadows at 8:08 p.m.

Sept 1

Gennaro Demarco, 69, of Itasca, was charged with DUI, driving below the minimum speed limit, improper lane usage and changing lanes without a signal near Lake and Medinah at 10:56 p.m.

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.

Sept. 12, at 12 noon in the 1000 block of Foster Avenue, a complainant reported an unknown suspect broke out their driver’s side window and threw something inside vehicle causing fire to their vehicle and six other vehicles. This case is under investigation. BEPC2300757

Sept. 12, 12:12 p.m. in the 1100 block of N. Ellis St., a complainant reported receiving harassing phone calls from a known suspect who is making fake appointments with their company along with harassing current employees. This incident is under investigation. BEP23010820

Sept. 11, 4:37 p.m. near Grand Avenue and Crown Road, the Bensenville police tactical unit was advised of a license plate reader hit on a stolen vehicle. The vehicle was stopped. The registered owner was driving the vehicle and after checking with the Chicago Police Department, they advised removing the vehicle from LEADS as stolen. The driver and vehicle were released from the scene. BEPC2300754

Sept. 9, 2:13 a.m. near at N. Route 83 and Thorndale Avenue, a Bensenville police officer assisted Bloomingdale in following a yellow/orange motorcycle driven by a man that is wanted by numerous departments for fleeing and has warrants. The motorcycle was last seen on I-90 eastbound at I-294.

Sept. 9, 8:52 a.m. near N. Route 83 and N. Thorndale Ave., a complainant on a motorcycle reported being hit by an unknown red jeep that took off. This case is under investigation.

BEPC2300749

Sept. 9, 10:08 a.m. in the 300 block of S. York Road, a complainant reported fraud on their bank account by an unknown suspect. This case is under investigation. BEPC2300751

Sept. 9, 9:15 p.m. in the 400 block of W. Irving Park Road, a complainant reported a customer upset regarding their mobile order and went behind the counter to harass an employee. The customer was trespassed indefinitely from the place. BEP23010732

Sept. 8, 7:10 p.m. in the 600 block of W. Wood St., a complainant reported that he exchanged photos with an account on Instagram and sent the individual $500 on a PayPal. Now the unknown suspect won’t stop harassing him with text messages. This case is under investigation. BEPC2300748

Sept. 8, 7:59 p.m. in Elk Grove Village, a Bensenville officer assisted the Cook County Forest Preserve for a small plane crash in Elk Grove Village. BEP23010682

Sept. 8, 3:46 a.m. in the 1000 block of Foster Avenue, a complainant reported an unknown suspect hit their car and left. This case is under investigation. BEPC2300746

Sept. 8, 4:23 a.m. near S. York Road and E. Green St., a complainant reported being in a hit and run with an unknown suspect. This case is under investigation. BEPC2300747

Sept. 8, 1:39 a.m. near David Drive and Dolores Drive, Christopher F. Galvez, 26, of Addison, was arrested for driving while license is revoked, resisting arrest, a failure to appear warrant out of DuPage County and other traffic violations. The passenger in the car was cited for open alcohol. BEPC2300745

Sept. 7, 12:01 p.m. in the 1-100 block of W. Green St., a juvenile was cited for possession of cannabis after being stopped walking down the street smoking cannabis. The juvenile’s mother was called and cannabis submitted into evidence. BEPC2300741

Sept. 7, 4:22 p.m. in the 800 block of Supreme Drive, a complainant wanted to document an ex-employee making threats against current employees. The company had the ex-employee trespassed from the company. This is for documentation purposes only. BEP23010632

Sept. 7, 8:05 p.m. in the 400 block of S. Barron St., a complainant reported two suspects who came over to his house had a gun. Upon the officer’s arrival, the two unknown suspects were gone. This case is under investigation. BEPC2300743

and one count of retail theft.

On Sept. 11 at approximately 6:15 p.m., officers with the Oak Brook Police Department responded to a call of a retail theft in progress at the Macy’s department store. It is alleged that Nicolae-Dirivan and the juveniles entered the Macy’s together and that as they walked through the store, Nicolae-Dirivan would indicate to the girls which items she was interested in either by pointing at the item or picking it up and then putting it back down.

It is further alleged that the girls would then pick up the item, take it to another location in the store and conceal the item in a bag under-

neath one of the juvenile’s dress. It is alleged that the three then left the store without paying for the items, at which time officers with the Oak Brook Police Department, who were already waiting for them outside the store, took them into custody.

“The allegations that Ms. Nicolae-Dirivan enlisted two young girls to help her steal more than $3,000 worth of merchandise are extremely disturbing,” Berlin said. “Last year, retail theft amounted to nearly $35 billion in losses nationwide according to the National Retail Foundation. These losses are ultimately paid for by consumers, employees, business owners, shareholders and entire communities.”

Nicolae-Dirivan’s next court appearance is scheduled Oct. 2 for arraignment in front of Judge Daniel Guerin. The next court appearance for the juveniles is scheduled for Oct. 26.

State Representative visits

Addison Trail for National Hispanic Heritage Month

On Wednesday, Sept. 13, State Rep. Norma Hernandez visited Addison Trail as part of the school’s weeklong celebration of National Hispanic Heritage Month. The focus of the event was to instill a sense of cultural pride in students and inspire them to achieve their goals.

During her visit at Addison Trail, Rep. Hernandez was introduced by junior Alexandra Garibay and spoke with students about the following topics. She also answered questions from students and staff members.

Her personal journey/path and story Hernandez’s family emigrated from Mexico. She grew up in Melrose Park and attended Proviso East High School. Watching her family work multiple jobs just to make ends meet pushed her to further her education and pursue a career in social work and public policy. She struggled academically and overcame numerous obstacles to earn her bachelor’s degree in Social Work and her master’s degree in Urban Planning and Policy, with a concentration in Community Development.

State Rep. Norma Hernandez (right) was introduced by junior Alexandra Garibay when she visited Addison Trail on Wednesday, Sept. 13. for the school’s weeklong celebration of National Hispanic Heritage Month. The focus of the event was to instill a sense of cultural pride in students and inspire them to achieve their goals.

The Youth Advisory Council (YAC-77)

State Rep. Hernandez talked about her Youth Advisory Council in the Illinois 77th District (YAC-77. This group is run by young people, who want to share their voice and implement change with regard to what is happening in their community – including changes in their school, neighborhood and state policies. Participants build skills in leadership, teambuilding, communication, citizenship/democracy and more. Students interested in joining the council can complete the registration form at forms.gle/Lu6ouDRxiCYwuRuC7.

Hernandez also discussed current legislation and projects that are underway throughout the district and the state.

SUBMITTED PHOTO Rock Valley Publishing

Florica Nicolae-Dirivan

Secretary of state testifies before U.S. Senate committee on Illinois’ recent effort to prohibit book bans

By Jennifer Fuller Capitol News illiNois

Illinois Secretary of State Alexi

Giannoulias was in Washington, D.C. recently to testify before the U.S. Senate Judiciary Committee regarding a new state law aimed at deterring book bans.

Giannoulias, whose position also includes the title of “state librarian,” this spring championed legislation allowing his office to withhold state money from public libraries if they ban books. On Tuesday, he told the Senate panel that public libraries have become “thunderdomes of controversy and strife” across the country.

“We want our schools and libraries to be open and welcoming settings for education, not cultural battlefields,” he said during his testimony.

“This legislation aims to unify our communities and seeks to restore a right that some of us may have grown to take for granted – the freedom to think for ourselves.”

Giannoulias said he hoped other states would “look toward Illinois” to adopt similar legislation to “protect the right to read freely and without fear of retribution.”

Sen. Dick Durbin, D-IL, convened the hearing dubbed “Book Bans: How Censorship Limits Liberty and Literature.” It was in reference to a report from the American Library Association which calculated there were more than 1,200 demands to censor books and other library materials last year—nearly double the number of similar requests in 2021.

While no specific legislation was considered in the hearing, much of the discussion centered around who should decide the content that is available in public libraries—including school libraries—across the country.

The current wave of agitating for book bans has grown with the socalled “parents’ rights movement” in

Maple Street Concerts present Sons of the Never Wrong on Saturday

Maple Street Concerts present Sons of the Never Wrong as part of its concert series starting at 7 p.m. Saturday.

“One song and you’re a fan for life.”

—Hemmens Theater

the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. Anger about school shutdowns in the early months of COVID, which evolved into anger about mandatory masking and optional virtual learning when schools reopened, coalesced with discomfort around the growing popularity of curriculums that emphasized diversity, equity and inclusion.

School board meetings and libraries have become the targets of parents’ rights activists. Groups have demanded books be removed from classrooms and library shelves based on content discussing race, history, gender identity and sexuality. Several public libraries in the Chicago suburbs have also received bomb threats in recent weeks, according to reporting by the Chicago Sun-Times.

Emily Knox, a professor who researches intellectual freedom and censorship at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, also testified before the Senate committee. She said her focus on book bans began as the child of a librarian in Maryland, where she remembered being confused when her favorite author, Judy Blume, showed up on a list during “Banned Books Week” each year.

Knox told the panel that as a young person, reading about people who were like her helped her navigate her world. She pointed to an analogy from Rudine Sims Bishop, a retired Ohio State University professor known as the mother of multicultural children’s literature, likening books to windows, mirrors, or sliding glass doors.

“A book can help us understand each other better by helping to change our attitude towards difference,” Knox said. “What we see right now is that people are fixated on the idea that books are only mirrors and sliding glass doors. They only reflect

See BANS, Page 11

The concert takes place at the historic Maple Street Chapel, 200 S. Main St.

Melissa Dagenhart, booker and consultant for the series, said, “They (Sons of the Never Wrong) are a Midwest favorite and connect with the audience through their energetic stage presence.”

Sons of the Never Wrong (Bruce Roper. Sue Demel and Debora Lader) is a turbocharged Altfolk trio from Chicago that delivers witty, whimsical songs with their signature soaring vocal harmonies and gorgeous arrangements. Their odd ball humor and spontaneous stories ignite their live shows and have earned them a cult-like international following for over 30 years. Combining influences of folk, jazz, pop and rock, their sound is wildly original, their energy is contagious and their banter is hilarious. However. no bio can outdo what others have to say about the Sons.

“This acoustic trio has become one of folk music’s most unique and acclaimed bands.”

—Grand Rapids Press

“Literate. Witty Folk Music!”

—Chicago Tribune

“One of the best folk bands of our time, out pushing the envelope once again with some of the most literate, provocative lyrics around.”

—Midwest Record

“Not since Peter, Paul, and Mary has a trio offered such perfect harmony in Folk music. Share an evening with one of Folk music’s most unique and acclaimed bands.”

—Cerritos Center Performing Arts

For more information, visit: www. sonsoftheneverwrong.com, or go on Facebook: facebook.com/sonsoftheneverwrong

Tickets are $20 and can be purchased online now at www.maplestreetconcerts.org. Pending availability, they will also be available at the door, 30 minutes before showtime, with cash or check only.

September is Suicide Prevention Month

Every year, during National Suicide Prevention Month, individuals and organizations come together to highlight the problem of suicide and advocate its prevention.

The DuPage County Health Department (DCHD) encourages residents to raise awareness in their communities—it could save someone’s life. Suicide is a serious public health problem that can have lasting harmful effects on individuals, families, and communities.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), suicide is a leading cause of death in the United States. Suicide continues to be a persistent threat to our community members and their families as DuPage County has averaged 94 deaths per year to suicide over the past five years according to data from the DuPage County Coroner. Sadly, to date in 2023, there have been a total of 61 deaths by suicide reported in DuPage County.

Each one of these deaths is a tragedy and suicide can be preventable through timely intervention. While suicide prevention is multi-layered, knowing the warning signs and supportive services available is one way everyone can contribute to preventing suicide deaths.

Suicide warning signs for youth

• Talking about or making plans for suicide.

• Expressing hopelessness about the future.

• Displaying severe/overwhelming emotional pain or distress.

• Showing worrisome changes in behavior, particularly in combination with the warning signs above, including significant:

• Withdrawal from or changing social connections/situations. o Changes in sleep (increased or decreased).

• Anger or hostility that seems out of character or out of context.

o Recent increased agitation or irritability.

Suicide warning signs for adults

• Talking about or making plans for suicide.

• Acting anxious or agitated; behaving recklessly.

• Talking about being a burden to others.

• Talking about feeling trapped or in unbearable pain.

• Increasing the use of alcohol or drugs.

• Talking about feeling hopeless or having no reason to live.

• Sleeping too little or too much.

• Withdrawing or feeling isolated.

• Showing rage or talking about seeking revenge.

• Displaying extreme mood swings.

For anyone experiencing difficult or suicidal thoughts, or anyone who knows someone who is, DCHD re -

sources are available 24/7, including: 4

• 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline—A national crisis line, the 988 Lifeline is available 24/7 for free and confidential support for people in distress, prevention, and crisis resources for you or your loved ones. Call or text 988, or chat at 998lifeline.org.

• DCHD’s Crisis Hotline—The DuPage County Crisis Hotline is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week at (630) 627- 1700. Callers can expect staff to provide support and guidance to manage the crisis, explore options, and provide other resources that may further assist them in resolving the crisis.

• Mobile Crisis Response—Mobile Crisis Response in DuPage County is available 24/7 for youth and adults at the location of the crisis and can be accessed at (630) 627-1700. Mobile crisis staff will provide support to manage the crisis, explore service needs, and provide necessary resources.

• Crisis Residential—Crisis Residential is a 24/7, 12-bed unit that provides short-term crisis stabiliza -

tion services for adults in DuPage County. Services can be accessed by calling (630) 627-1700. DCHD has been working to build the ideal behavioral health crisis system for years—a system that ensures individuals experiencing a moment of crisis will receive the support they need by ensuring they have “someone to call, someone to respond, and somewhere to go.”

The work is ongoing, and the need continues to grow. Currently, DCHD is finalizing plans to build a Crisis Recovery Center in DuPage. This center will offer mental health and substance use services for children, adolescents, and adults, ensuring individuals in DuPage County have “somewhere to go.”

This CRC will enhance the ability to provide immediate help and appropriate treatment as well as linkage to other supportive services to individuals experiencing a mental health and/or substance use crisis.

To learn more about the Crisis Recovery Center, visit: https:// www.dupagehealth.org/747/Crisis-System-Expansion.

something true about the reader themselves, or the reader’s world or they invite the reader to mimic an identity or action they read about a book. It’s important to remember that books are also windows: They give us access to other people’s lives.”

Though movements to ban certain books are nothing new, the last few years have seen the rise of sophisticated organizing and even professional non-profits that target public schools and libraries for their curriculums and materials available to children. In early 2021, U of I alum Nicole Neilly founded one such organization, Parents Defending Education, which has grown to 13 staff members in less than three years.

Neily told the Senate panel that she wasn’t advocating for censorship, but rather allowing parents and community members to have a say in what their children are exposed to.

“The book issue is a curation issue,” she said. “It should be obvious that a book that is part of a lesson plan in a second-grade classroom is more concerning than a book that can be voluntarily checked out from a public library and also that sensitive topics read to children at very young ages is more concerning than high schoolers learning about the human body and health class.”

Comments from Sen. Lindsey Graham, R-SC, demonstrated the divide between political parties on the issue.

“If I don’t have any kids. Should I shut up? I pay taxes. When you have a public library and you have a board, somebody decides what books go in and what not to go in. Lend your voice to the cause. It’s okay to speak out for your community,” Graham said shortly before leaving the hearing.

In his testimony, Giannoulias pointed out he

has children of his own, and believes he holds the responsibility to decide what they are exposed to and when. But he says the point of this year’s legislation was to give parents and readers a choice.

“You don’t have to burn books to destroy culture. Just get people to stop reading them. And that’s where the real danger lies,” he said. “Parents, parents and only parents have the right and the responsibility to monitor the access of their children and only their children to library resources.”

Illinois’ law specifically states that as a condition for being eligible for state grants, libraries must adopt either the American Library Association’s Library Bill of Rights or some other written statement prohibiting the practice of banning books.

Giannoulias said previously it does not require that libraries have certain books on their shelves, but rather it aims to prevent the removal of books based on partisan or doctrinal beliefs.

“If I don’t have any kids. Should I shut up? I pay taxes. When you have a public library and you have a board, somebody decides what books go in and what not to go in. Lend your voice to the cause. It’s okay to speak out for your community.”

–Sen. Lindsey Graham, R-SC

NOTICE

CERTIFICATE NO. 79193 was filed in the office of the County Clerk of DuPage County on AUGUST 28, 2023 wherein the business firm of THE INDIAN KNOT, 1288 ESTLING CT., AURORA, IL 60502 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:

Latika Tanna, 1288 Estling Ct., Aurora, IL 60502.

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

Jean Kaczmarek

DuPage County Clerk (Published in The Lombardian Sept. 7, 14 & 21, 2023) 443447

NOTICE

CERTIFICATE NO. 79198 was filed in the office of the County Clerk of DuPage County on SEPTEMBER 5, 2023 wherein the business firm of INTERIM BEHAVIOR NETWORK, 1570 WHISTLER COURT, NAPERVILLE, IL 60564 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:

Maram Abomaray, 1570 Whistler Court, Naperville, IL 60564.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand and Official Seal at my office in Wheaton, Illinois, this 5TH day of SEPTEMBER, A.D. 2023.

Jean Kaczmarek

DuPage County Clerk (Published in The Lombardian Sept. 14, 21 & 28, 2023) 443588

NOTICE

CERTIFICATE NO. 79200 was filed in the office of the County Clerk of DuPage County on SEPTEMBER 5, 2023, wherein the business firm of MZ DATA SOLUTIONS, 2036 HOWARD AVENUE, DOWNERS GROVE, IL 60515 was registered; that the true or real name or names of the person or persons owning the business, with their respective post office address(es), is/are as follows:

Michael Zwartz, 2036 Howard Avenue, Downers Grove, IL 60515.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand and Official Seal at my office in Wheaton, Illinois, this 5TH day

of

SEPTEMBER,

A.D. 2023.

Jean Kaczmarek

DuPage County Clerk

(Published in The Lombardian Sept. 14, 21 & 28, 2023)

NOTICE

• Firefighter

(Continued from page 6)

a family discussion about developing a plan in the event of an emergency.

Rams earn a conference victory over West Chicago

443686

CERTIFICATE NO. 79206 was filed in the office of the County Clerk of DuPage County on SEPTEMBER 14, 2023 wherein the business firm of C.J. RECORDS, RECORDING & PUBLISHING CO., 210A E. CHICAGO AVENUE, #226, WESTMONT, IL 60559 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: Valerie Coleman, 210A E. Chicago Avenue #226, Westmont, IL 60559.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand and Official Seal at my office in Wheaton, Illinois, this 14TH day of SEPTEMBER, A.D. 2023.

Jean Kaczmarek

DuPage County Clerk

(Published in The Lombardian Sept. 21, 28 & Oct. 5, 2023) 444124

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

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

Request of: DANICA MILA PERISIC

Case Number: 2023MR000518

There will be a court date on my Request to change my name from DANICA MILA PERISIC to the new name of DANICA PERISIC. The court date will be held NOVEMBER 13, 2023 at 9:00 a.m. at 505 N. County Farm Road, Wheaton, IL, DuPage County, in Courtroom #2007.

/s/ Danica Mila Perisic

Dated: 9/11/2023

Candice Adams Clerk of the Circuit Court 8085-936008

(Published in The Lombardian Sept. 21, 28 & Oct. 5, 2023) 443962

He also hopes the book inspires children to consider a career as a firefighter/paramedic.

By reading “Firefigthers,” Rakosnik said, “Hopefully that will trigger something in their [kids’] mind. Again, it’s interactive. Very simple stuff, but stuff that’s huge.”

“Firefighters Are Friends” can be purchased on Amazon and other online booksellers.

The Glenbard East boys soccer team improved to 2-3-2 overall and 1-2-1 in Upstate Conference action with last week’s 2-0 conference win at West Chicago.

The Rams scored a pair of second-half goals during their Sept. 13 conference match at West Chicago. Senior Lukas Czapla scored one of Glenbard East’s goals on a penalty kick.

Senior Josue Roman scored the Rams’ other goal.

Junior goalkeeper Cooper Wooldridge made four saves for Glenbard East in the team’s shutout victory over the Wildcats.

The Rams’ schedule this week includes a conference home match against East Aurora, along with this Saturday’s non-conference contest at Willowbrook.

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Rams overpower East Aurora 49-6

Salvino fires four touchdown passes; Cook scores three touchdowns

The Glenbard East football team moved its 2023 season record to 3-1 with Friday’s 49-6 Upstate Eight Conference victory over East Aurora in Lombard. The Rams held a 35-0 halftime lead over the visiting Tomcats (2-2). Glenbard East scored a touchdown late in the third quarter to raise its lead to 41-0. That lead of at least 40 points triggered a running clock for the rest of the game.

Glenbard East has secured all three of its victories of 2023 by margins of at least 42 points. The Rams opened the season with a 42-0 road win over Larkin. Glenbard East moved to 2-1 following its 48-6 triumph at West Chicago on Sept. 8.

The Rams’ season continues with this Friday’s conference contest at Streamwood. The Sabres fell to 1-3 following a 57-6 conference loss at Glenbard South.

Glenbard East received Friday’s opening kickoff and drove 69 yards for a touchdown. A 47-yard pass from senior quarterback Blake Salvino to senior Eric McClain advanced the ball to the Tomcats’ 3-yard line. Junior Amonte Cook finished the drive with a 3-yard touchdown run. Senior Ryan Snell made the extra-point kick to give the Rams a 7-0 lead with about 10 minutes left in the first quarter.

East Aurora’s first drive advanced

the ball into Glenbard East territory, but the drive ended when the Tomcats turned the ball over on downs. The Rams then drove 63 yards for a touchdown—a 10-yard pass from Salvino to Cook.

The Rams scored their third touchdown of the night after a short punt by East Aurora. Cook’s third touchdown of the game—a 29-yard reception from Salvino—finished the drive.

The Tomcats weren’t able to unload a punt on their next possession. Glenbard East recovered the loose ball at East Aurora’s 5-yard line. Moments later, Salvino threw a 5-yard touchdown pass to junior Chris Renford.

The Rams drove 59 yards for a touchdown on their next possession. Salvino closed out the drive with his fourth touchdown pass of the game—a 5-yard completion to senior Gianbiagio Brusca. Snell’s extra-point kick gave the Rams a 35-0 lead with a little more than one minute left in the first half.

Salvino completed nine of nine pass attempts for 137 yards and four touchdowns during Friday’s win. Cook made four receptions for 59 yards. Senior Matt Larson rushed for 86 yards on 15 carries.

Brusca intercepted an East Aurora pass and raced 26 yards for a touch-

down late in the third quarter to extend the Rams’ lead to 41-0. Junior Valentino Heredia scored Glenbard East’s final touchdown of the game on a 14-yard run in the middle of the fourth quarter. Snell’s seventh extra-point kick of the night moved the Rams’ lead to 49-0.

East Aurora scored its only points of the game by returning the ensuing kickoff 97 yards for a touchdown.

Broncos improve to 4-0 with a comeback win over Benet

Florio provides two fourth-quarter touchdown receptions

The Montini Catholic football team surged to a 4-0 record with Friday’s 21-10 victory over Benet Academy in Lombard.

The visiting Redwings led the Broncos 10-0 at halftime. Montini’s offensive tandem of junior quarterback Gaetano Carbonara and junior receiver Santino Florio sparked their team’s second-half success. A 49yard completion from Carbonara to Florio set up the Broncos’ first touchdown of the night. Carbonara and Florio then connected on a pair of fourth-quarter touchdown passes.

“I knew this was going to be a battle,” said Montini coach Mike Bukovsky after Friday’s victory. “You’ve got to be able to figure out how to win these kind of games. Our kids have proven to ourselves we can dig down when we need it.”

Montini’s season continues with this Friday’s game against Marian Catholic (2-2) in Chicago Heights.

Benet (2-2) led the Broncos 3-0 late in the first half of Friday’s contest. The Redwings added to their lead when they completed a 46-yard touchdown pass in the closing seconds of the first half. A Benet re-

ceiver tipped the pass to one of his teammates, who made the catch and trotted into the end zone. The Redwings added the extra-point kick to take a 10-0 lead.

Montini scored its first touchdown of the game late in the third quarter. Florio caught a short pass from Carbonara and raced down the sideline for a 49-yard gain, down to Benet’s 1-yard line. A few plays later, junior Nick Irion of the Broncos delivered a 2-yard touchdown run on a thirdand-goal play. Senior Cole Stumbaugh kicked the extra point to cut Benet’s lead to 10-7 with about one minute to play in the third quarter.

“Most of the time, in high school football, when there’s a two-score lead, the team that scores next is going to grab the momentum,” stated Bukovsky. “We got a stop to start the second half. Then we got that next score, and you could just feel it. The momentum was with us.”

Benet’s next offensive series lasted only three plays before a punt. Montini’s subsequent drive started at the Redwings’ 45-yard line. The Broncos needed only two plays to deliver another touchdown. Car-

bonara lofted a 35-yard scoring pass to Florio, who was wide open when he caught the pass in stride near the 5-yard line. Stumbaugh added the extra-point kick to raise the Broncos’ lead to 14-10 with about 11 minutes left in the game.

Benet drove deep inside Montini territory on its next offensive drive. That drive ended when the Redwings fumbled the ball near the Broncos’ 10-yard line. Irion, a linebacker/defensive back, made the recovery.

In addition to recovering a fumble in the fourth quarter, Irion made a team-leading 13 tackles during Friday’s game. Six of those tackles resulted in losses for Benet’s offense.

Montini’s other defensive standouts in the victory over the Redwings included junior linemen Nicky Castaldo and Douglas Mateo, along with senior linebacker Sam Hemmersmeier.

The Redwings began their next drive at midfield with 3:20 to play. That drive ended with an incomplete pass on a fourth-down play.

Montini faced a fourth-and-16

See BRONCOS, Page 20

Glenbard East’s football team improved to 3-1 following Friday’s 49-6 Upstate Eight Conference victory over East Aurora in Lombard. The Rams led the Tomcats 35-0 at halftime. Glenbard East senior quarterback Blake Salvino (No. 10 - left) completed nine of nine pass attempts for 137 yards and four touchdowns during Friday’s contest. Salvino fired all four of his touchdown passes during the first half. Junior Amonte Cook scored the Rams’ first touchdown of the night on a 3-yard run. Cook scored the team’s next two touchdowns on receptions of 10 and 29 yards. Cook (No. 5) is pictured (above) during his 29-yard touchdown catch in the second quarter. Cook made four receptions for 59 yards during Friday’s victory. One more photo from the game shows senior Gianbiagio Brusca (No. 3 - below), who caught Salvino’s fourth touchdown pass of the game late in the first half. Brusca scored a defensive touchdown in the third quarter on a 26-yard interception return.

Chris Fox photos Rock Valley Publishing

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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. Type of cat

6. Weaponry

10. Western Christian Church service

14. Significant eruption of pustules

15. Baltic nation

17. Start of American holiday season

19. Unhappy

20. Maintains possession of

21. Metrical foot of one long and three short syllables

22. Mountain pass

23. Vestments

24. Type of dish

26. Escaped quickly

29. Zoroastrian concept of holy fire

31. Wings

32. Political action committee

34. Touches lightly

35. Stood back from

37. Philippine Island

38. Popular winter activity

39. Type of amine

40. Small freshwater duck

41. Filled with love

43. Without (French)

45. Vetch

46. Swiss river

47. Describes a sound

49. Sign language

50. Hair product

53. Have surgery

57. Quality of being imaginary

58. Far-right German party

59. Drove

60. Former French coin of low value

61. Hard, durable timbers

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1. Body art

2. Middle East military title

3. Actor Pitt

4. Container

5. Speak incessantly

6. Relating to algae

7. Jacob __, journalist

8. Rock TV channel

9. Boat’s cargo

10. Most wise

11. Within

12. Chinese industrial city

13. Scotland’s longest river

16. Not capable

18. Footwear

22. Savings account

23. Capable

24. Vaccine developer

25. Tax collector

27. Fencing swords

28. Native religion in China

29. Promotional materials

30. A shot in a film production

31. Afflict in mind or body

33. A passage with access only at one end

35. Breathing devices

36. Employ for wages

37. Kids’ TV channel (abbr.)

39. Popular Boston song

42. Made amends

43. Selling at specially reduced prices

44. Atomic #18

46. With fireplace residue

47. Unleavened cornbread

48. Draw out

49. Southwestern Alaska island

50. Where the Pyramids are

51. People of Nigeria

52. Smaller quantity

53. Destroy the inside of 54. City

55. Chivalrous figure (abbr.)

56. No (Scottish)

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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.

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Warriors complete their regular season

Willowbrook defeats Addison Trail in a conference dual meet

The Willowbrook boys golf team played its annual Ryder Cup quad with Addison Trail, Morton and Glenbard North at The Preserve at Oak Meadows in Addison on Sept. 14. The Warriors finished second to Glenbard North in the team standings of the event. A Willowbrook duo delivered a first-place effort in the competition, which featured three two-player teams from each school.

Glenbard North won the team title at the Ryder Cup quad with its score of 109. The Warriors landed in second place with their total of 112. Addison Trail (114) claimed third, while Morton (138) finished fourth.

Willowbrook’s tandem of senior Victor Voskresenski and junior Austin Coppersmith delivered the best score of all of the duos in the event. All of those duos played a two-man scramble. Voskresenski and Coppersmith teamed up to shoot a 4-under-par score of 32 over nine holes.

The Warriors and Addison Trail squared off in Saturday’s 18-hole dual meet at Prairie Bluff Public Golf Club in Crest Hill. The contest included the West Suburban Gold Conference dual meet between Willowbrook and the Blazers. The front nine holes counted toward the conference dual meet. Willowbrook pre-

Teeing off

vailed in that dual meet with its score of 178. Addison Trail posted a team score of 181.

Senior Carson Stefani delivered the Warriors’ best nine-hole score in Saturday’s dual meet with his total of 41. Junior Trent Kovacs fired a 44 for Willowbrook. Coppersmith contributed a 46, while junior T.J. Radomski carded a 47 to complete the Warriors’ team total of 178.

Willowbrook played in its conference meet earlier this week at Prairie Bluff Golf Club. The Warriors will play in an IHSA Class 3A regional at St. Andrews Golf and Country Club in West Chicago on Sept. 27.

Rams beat the Blazers

Glenbard East’s girls volleyball team improved its overall season record to 9-7 with last week’s 25-12, 2521 non-conference win over Addison Trail in Lombard.

Senior Sophia Sommesi hit 10 kills and made five digs for the Rams in their Sept. 13 win over the Blazers. Senior Hannah Meyer provided 14 assists and four digs for Glenbard East. Senior Lauren Bradley (pictured above left while keeping the ball in play with her back to the net) supplied five digs, while senior Livia Robbins had five digs and three aces. Freshman Belle McDermott added three kills and three digs for the Rams. Senior Stephany Sulari had two digs and two blocks. The Rams continued their season by winning two of four matches and placing fifth in Glenbard West’s 12-team tournament, which ended on Saturday. Meyer handed out 109 assists and made 24 digs in the Rams’ four matches at the event. Sommesi piled up 73 kills and 35 digs during the tournament, while Bradley added 66 digs. Robbins made 23 digs and served six aces during the competition at Glenbard West. Junior Grace Johnson delivered 10 kills and 16 digs, while senior Emma Iwaniszyn (No. 4, pictured above right during last week’s win over Addison Trail) contributed eight kills, six blocks and six digs for the Rams. Senior Gabby Walton had nine kills and seven blocks, while junior Harmonee Hallman hit seven kills and made nine blocks. Glenbard East’s season continues with this week’s matches against East Aurora and Lake Park.

Warriors maintain perfect record

Team improves to 16-0 with wins over Morton and Montini Catholic

The Willowbrook girls volleyball team moved its overall season record to 16-0 with a pair of convincing wins last week. The Warriors defeated Morton 25-11, 25-8 in a West Suburban Gold Conference match in Villa Park on Sept. 12. Willowbrook completed its week with a 25-11, 2515 non-conference victory at Montini Catholic in Lombard on Sept. 14.

Senior Calli Kenny contributed five kills, 10 assists, six digs and four aces for the Warriors in last week’s win over Morton. Junior Hannah Kenny provided three kills, 12 assists, five digs and five aces in the victory, which lifted Willowbrook’s confer-

ence record to 2-0.

Senior Elisa Chivilo supplied 13 digs and two assists in the Warriors’ win over Morton. Junior Anna Marinier delivered five kills and two digs, while senior Elle Bruschuk tallied three kills, three aces and two digs. Junior Lily Javier and senior Eliza Ramey hit four and three kills, respectively.

Calli Kenny bashed eight kills, handed out 10 assists and made eight digs for Willowbrook in last week’s win at Montini Catholic. Hannah Kenny produced five kills, 15 assists, eight digs and two aces in the win over the Broncos, whose season re-

Glenbard East’s girls golf team faced Willowbrook and Glenbard South in separate dual meets last week. The Rams defeated Willowbrook 219-256 in a meet at Glenbard East’s home venue—Glendale Lakes Golf Club—on Sept. 12. Two days later, Glenbard South beat Glenbard East 201-227 in an Upstate Eight Conference dual meet at the Raiders’ home venue—Lombard Golf Course. Freshman Lilly Penfield fired Glenbard East’s best nine-hole score—a 47—in last week’s win over Willowbrook. Junior Jessica Rivas of the Rams shot a 55 in the Sept. 12 meet, while seniors Payton Hayes and Sophie Chan shot scores of 58 and 59, respectively. Chan delivered Glenbard East’s best nine-hole score—a 54—in the Sept. 14 meet against Glenbard South. Rivas and Hayes both posted scores of 56, while senior Meg Schaub shot a 61. Penfield is pictured during last week’s meet against the Raiders. Earlier this week, the Rams competed in the Upstate Eight Conference Meet at St. Andrews Golf and Country Club in West Chicago.

• Broncos (C

ontinued from page 16)

play from Benet’s 36-yard line with less than one minute left in the game. Carbonara dropped back and threw a long pass toward Florio, who made the catch at the goal line for a 36-yard touchdown reception with about 30 seconds on the clock. The game-clinching score ignited a huge celebration from Montini’s spirited student section.

“He’s a big-time playmaker,” said Bukovsky of Florio. “He works so hard. He is all heart.”

The late touchdown that sealed

the Broncos’ victory was a carbon copy of the scoring pass that Carbonara completed to Florio earlier in the fourth quarter.

Carbonara completed nine of 20 passes for 211 yards and two touchdowns during Friday’s game. He threw a pair of interceptions.

Florio made four receptions for 130 yards and two touchdowns. Senior Alex Marre rushed 20 times for 61 yards for the Broncos. He also made one reception for 25 yards.

cord dropped to 3-11. Marinier added six kills, four digs and three aces. Chivilo contributed 10 digs and three assists. Javier had four kills and three digs, while Bruschuk provided three kills and two digs. Ramey connected for three kills. Senior Keri Ostrowski made four digs.

The Warriors played the match at Montini in front of a large contingent of Willowbrook supporters that made the short trip to Lombard to watch their team extend its winning streak.

The Warriors’ season continued with a conference home match against Downers Grove South that took place earlier this week.

Montini Catholic’s

10-0

cit to beat Benet Academy 21-10 on Friday night in Lombard. The Broncos improved their overall season record to 4-0 with the victory. Montini junior Santino Florio made four receptions for 130 yards and two touchdowns during Friday’s game. Florio (No. 1 - above left) is pictured during his 49-yard reception in the third quarter. Florio was tackled just short of the goal line on the play. Montini scored its first touchdown of the night a few plays later on a run by junior Nick Irion. Florio caught two touchdown passes from junior quarterback Gaetano Carbonara during the fourth quarter. Carbonara (No. 4 - above right) is pictured while launching a 36-yard touchdown pass to Florio with less than one minute to play. “It’s amazing, it really is,” said Carbonara of the team’s 4-0 start. “It shows what hard work and determination can get.” He noted that Montini has posted 3-6 records in each of the last two seasons, and that he and his teammates are eager to play post-season football. The Broncos haven’t qualified for the playoffs since 2019, so none of the team’s current players have played in an IHSA post-season contest.

Chris Fox photos Rock Valley Publishing

football team rallied from a

halftime defi-

Chris Fox photo Rock Valley Publishing

Chris Fox photos Rock Valley Publishing

Warriors lose 28-21 at Downers Grove South

Mustangs deliver the go-ahead touchdown late in the fourth quarter; Willowbrook plays its homecoming game this Friday

The Willowbrook football team dropped to 2-2 overall and 1-1 in the West Suburban Gold Conference following Friday’s 28-21 loss at Downers Grove South.

The Warriors will play their homecoming game this Friday. They will face Hinsdale South (2-2 overall, 2-0 in the conference) in a conference matchup in Villa Park. The Hornets opened their West Suburban Gold Conference schedule with shutout wins over Leyden and Addison Trail. Hinsdale South beat the Blazers 24-0 on Friday in Darien.

One year ago, Downers Grove South defeated Willowbrook 2813 in the fourth week of the regular season. That contest turned out to be the decisive game in the conference standings. The Mustangs finished the 2022 season with a perfect 6-0 conference mark, while Willowbrook posted a 5-1 record.

Downers Grove South moved to 1-3 overall and 1-0 in the conference with Friday’s win over the Warriors.

The Mustangs opened their season with non-conference losses to three tough opponents—Wheaton North, Downers Grove North and York. Wheaton North holds a 3-1 record, while Downers Grove North and York are both 4-0.

The Mustangs received the opening kickoff of Friday’s game and drove 80-yards for a touchdown.

They ended the drive with an 8-yard run into the end zone and made the extra-point kick to take a 7-0 lead.

Willowbrook evened the score early in the second quarter. When the Mustangs couldn’t cleanly execute a snap on a punt play, and the Warriors took possession at Downers Grove South’s 5-yard line. Moments later, senior quarterback Arthur Palicki of the Warriors delivered a 6-yard touchdown run. Junior Brandon Lopez added the extra-point kick to tie the score at 7-7 with about 11 minutes left in the first half.

The Mustangs delivered a long return on the ensuing kickoff, bringing the ball to the Warriors’ 26-yard line. Moments later, Downers Grove South scored on a 17-yard touchdown run. The conversion kick failed, leaving the Mustangs with a 13-7 lead with about nine minutes remaining in the opening half.

Junior Martin Anfinson of the Warriors intercepted a Downers Grove South pass later in the second quarter. The Mustangs then intercepted a Willowbrook pass in the closing minutes of the quarter. Downers Grove South held a 13-7 halftime lead.

The Mustangs fumbled a Willowbrook punt in the third quarter. Senior Alex Perez of the Warriors recovered the ball at Downers Grove South’s 26-yard line. The Warriors’ ensuing

drive included a fourth-down completion from Palicki to senior Carter Ferguson. Palicki finished the drive with a 1-yard touchdown run. Lopez made the extra-point kick to give the Warriors a 14-13 lead with about five minutes to play in the third quarter.

Downers Grove South blocked a Willowbrook punt early in the fourth quarter. The Mustangs took possession of the ball at the Warriors’ 2-yard line. Downers Grove South then scored on a 1-yard touchdown run. The Mustangs added a two-point conversion run to boost their lead to 21-14 with about 10 minutes left in the fourth quarter.

Willowbrook battled back to tie the score with about eight minutes to play. Palicki fired a 14-yard touchdown pass to junior Charlie Siegler, and Lopez made the extra-point kick to even the score at 21-21.

The Mustangs drove 58 yards for a touchdown on their next drive. They scored on a 1-yard touchdown run and added the extra-point kick to grab a 28-21 lead with 1:22 to play. Palicki and Ferguson connected for two completions on the Warriors’ final drive. A 22-yard catch by Ferguson put the Warriors at the Mustangs’ 36-yard line. Willowbrook advanced the ball to the Mustangs’ 18-yard line before the drive ended on an incomplete pass on a fourth-down play with less than five seconds remaining.

A big win for the Warriors

Willowbrook’s flag football team improved its 2023 season record to 2-0 with Saturday’s 52-0 victory over Streamwood in Villa Park. Sophomore quarterback Marli Smrz (No. 6 - above left) of the Warriors is pictured during a long touchdown run in the second half. Another photo from Saturday’s game shows Willowbrook freshman Lillian Macias (No. 4 - above middle) returning an interception for a touchdown in the

JOE PEARSON PHOTO Rock Valley Publishing

Senior quarterback Arthur Palicki (No. 1) of the Willowbrook football team is pictured during Friday’s West Suburban Gold Conference game at Downers South. Palicki ran for two touchdowns and threw a touchdown pass to junior Charlie Siegler during the contest. Downers Grove South defeated the Warriors 28-21. Willowbrook dropped to 2-2 overall and 1-1 in conference play. The Mustangs moved to 1-3 overall and 1-0 in the conference. Downers Grove South won the 2022 West Suburban Gold Conference title with a 6-0 record. Willowbrook finished second in the conference standings with a 5-1 record. The Warriors will play their homecoming game this Friday. They will face conference rival Hinsdale South. The game will begin at 8 p.m.

second half. One more photo shows senior Emma Anderlik (No. 1 - above right) of the Warriors, who received the player of the game award. Anderlik and Smrz are the captains of this year’s team. Willowbrook won the state championship during its inaugural 2022 season. The Warriors will play their homecoming game this Friday in Villa Park. Willowbrook will face Dundee-Crown in the contest, which will begin at 6:30 p.m.

CHRIS FOX PHOTOS Rock Valley Publishing

LegaL notices

NOTICE TO BIDDERS

THE VILLAGE OF BENSENVILLE, DuPAGE COUNTY, ILLINOIS, will receive sealed bids for the 2022 RESIDENTIAL STREET LIGHTING PROJECT until Eleven A.M. (11:00 A.M.) (prevailing time), October 3, 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.

NOTICE: FEDERAL LABOR STANDARDS, PREVAILING WAGE RATES AND SECTION 3 REGULATIONS WILL APPLY TO THIS PROJECT MINORITIES OWNED BUSINESS ENTERPRISE (MBE), WOMEN OWNED BUSINESS ENTERPRISES (WBE), AND SECTION 3 CONTRACTORS ARE ENCOURAGED TO SUBMIT BIDS ON THIS PROJECT

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.

Execution of this Contract shall be contingent upon the execution of an agreement between the Village and DuPage County related to Community Development Block Grant funding.

(Published in the Addison Independent, Bensenville Independent & Villa Park Review Sept. 21, 2023) 443928

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING

ADDISON TOWNSHIP AMENDED BUDGET

Notice is hereby given that an, Amended Budget and Appropriation Ordinance for the Township of ADDISON, in the County Of DUPAGE, State of Illinois, for the Fiscal Year beginning June 1, 2023, and ending May 31, 2024, will be on file and conveniently available for public inspection at ADDISON TOWNSHIP, 401 N. ADDISON RD., ADDISON, IL during regular business hours, Monday through Friday 9:00 A.M. until 3:00 P.M.

Notice is further given hereby that a Public Hearing of the Addison Township Amended Budget and Appropriation Ordinance will be held at 6:00 P.M. On WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 25, 2023, at 401 N. Addison Rd., Addison, IL

By Order of ADDISON TOWNSHIP

PAMELA JOY MORETTI TOWN CLERK

(Published in the Addison Independent, Bensenville Independent & Villa Park Review Sept. 21, 2023) 444142

Madison Classics Swap Meet & Car Show celebrates 46 years in Jefferson

Mark your calendar now for the Madison Classics 46th annual Fall Jefferson Auto Swap Meet & Car Show held at the Jefferson County Fair Park located at 503 N. Jackson Ave. in Jefferson, WI. on September 22 -24, 2023.

Madison Classics has always strived to provide a great place for auto enthusiasts to buy/sell/display a variety of auto related items and vehicles. Madison Classics Fall Jefferson event will feature Chevrolets. The feature vehicles will be displayed in the main Activity Center Building.

The show features more than 3,100 vendor spaces and hundreds of cars for sale. The Swap Meet and Car Corral is all three days and the car show is Saturday and Sunday only. Car show is Saturday and Sunday only. No pets please.

This year on Sunday September 24 will Feature a Demo Derby Presented by Hollywood Motorsports starting at noon, along with Cars and Coffee presented by Piggly Wiggly for the car show participants. For more information and ticket prices please call (608) 244-8416 or visit www.madisonclassics.com.

Cranberry Festival to be held in Warrens

Warrens is host to the annual, World’s Largest Cranberry Festival and 2023 marks the 50th celebration!!! “50 Years of Tradition is the theme for the annual community celebration and the largest festival of its kind in the state. Founded in 1973, the village of Warrens with a population of 365 welcomes over

145,000 visitors. The festival draws people from around the world for small town fun with a big attitude!

The festival is perhaps best known for its shopping and boasts over 800 arts & crafts booths (unusual works of art), 300 flea & antique booths (primitives, pottery, and antiques), 100 farm market booths (fresh fall produce) and 100 food vendors that make for a three-mile shopping extravaganza!!! A free walking

Cranberry Marsh Tour is available on Friday & Saturday 9am-3:00pm and Sunday 10am to noon. See the parade on Sunday at 1:00 p.m. Our festival is admission free and includes a wide variety of events and activities for the entire family.

The Warrens Cranberry Festival looks forward to hosting the 50th annual festival to be held September 22-24, 2023.

Open All 3 Days: FridaySunday 7am-5pm. Come and join us – It’s a Berry Good Time. www.cranfest.com for more information.

Midwest Traveler

A Special Advertising Section

Pitlik’s Sand Beach Resort offers many amenities for fall travelers

Pitlik’s Sand Beach Resort is nestled on 1,500 feet of Sand Lake shoreline on the Sugar Camp Chain of 5 lakes. Amongst the 15 cabins and 4 dog-friendly lakehomes, accommodations include log cabins with open-beam cathedral ceilings, large stone fireplaces and spiral staircases.

Pitlik’s Resort is located on the WI State Snowmobile Trail System and is near the annual World Championship Snowmobile Derby. Cross-country skiers will want to visit nearby Nicolet National Forest, where trails are rated among the top ten in the USA. And 90 minutes to the north are Upper Michigan’s famous downhill slopes. Guests can also take advantage of numerous

miles of paved bike trails in the area and local autumn festivals such as Cranberry Fest the 1st weekend in October.

Visit Joe’s Taproom and Rena’s Place Restaurant in the main lodge for panoramic lake-view relaxation, spirits and nostalgic lake lodge dining, warmed by 2 fireplaces. Rena’s offers a full menu featuring freshly made options such as locally raised grass-fed burgers, organic bison, gourmet sandwiches, housemade soups and nightly dinner specials. Friday night, year-round, features the popular Shore Lunch Fish Fry. Joe’s Taproom offers a rotating lineup of craft brews on tap and is home to the skillfully handcrafted Ultimate Bloody Mary and made-from-scratch

old-fashions.

Celebrating its 95th year and the last resort remaining on the chain, Pitlik’s Resort has offered generations of guests a memorable North-

woods experience in lodging, ambience and relaxation.

“Creating Family Tradition’s has become our Family’s Tradition –Since 1928!”

CAPTAIN PERCY DARVILLE - Winner of the Prestigious 2007 Cacique Award Master Fisherman & Guide to Celebrities & Dignitaries