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1 • Thursday, Jan. 25, 2024 - The Elmhurst Independent

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students read the books together. The preschoolers had so much fun reading with their 8th grade role models that in return, the youngsters made handmade thankyou notes for them.

2 • Thursday, Jan. 25, 2024 - The Elmhurst Independent

DEE LONGFELLOW PHOTO Elmhurst Independent

Aldermen turn out to support mayor Several of the Elmhurst aldermen came to Community Bank of Elmhurst last Thursday, Jan. 18 to hear Mayor Scott Levin deliver the annual State of the City address, hosted by the Elmhurst Chamber of Commerce & Industry. Pictured are (from left): Michael Bram (3rd Ward), Karen Sienko (2nd), Marti Deuter (1st), Mayor Levin,

Community Bank of Elmhurst Member FDIC

Jennifer Veremis (1st), Emily Bastedo (6th), Guido Nardini (6th) and Rex Irby (7th).

In his remarks, Levin praised the hard work of the City Council and how everyone comes together to make the best decisions for the community, regardless of political affiliation.

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The Elmhurst Independent - Thursday, Jan. 25, 2024 • 3

It’s National Children’s Dental Health Month.

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

This National Children’s Dental Health Month, make your child’s smile a priority.

Take them to the dentist regularly and teach them to care for their teeth properly.

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4 • Thursday, Jan. 25, 2024 - The Elmhurst Independent

District 205 Board receives construction updates

The elmhursT Hears IndependenT comprehensive Your Hometown Newspaper financial Locally owned and operated presentation 240 N. West Avenue Elmhurst, IL. 60126

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ment. One of the speakers spoke of the significance of learning a foreign language at an early age. Another speaker said that research showed that results from standardized tests like the ACT and SAT are more reliable than assessing students’ grades in high school. He said that

By Chris Fox the district needs to work on raising For The Elmhurst Independent The Elmhurst Community Unit the numbers of its students who are School District 205 Board held a proficient in English and math. regular meeting on Jan. 16 at the District 205 Center, 162 S. York St. Summer programming The board meeting included a All seven board members attended the meeting, which was the board’s short presentation from Baker about the district’s 2024 summer profirst regular meeting of 2024. gramming. Baker said the district offers a variety of academic, athSpotlights and recognition The meeting’s spotlights and letic and arts programs to its sturecognitions segment noted the dents each summer. He said there achievement of York High School were about 3,700 enrollments in the girls water polo coach Mark Gi- district’s 2023 summer programs. uliani, who was named the National Registration for this year’s summer Federation of High Schools (NFHS) programs will be open by the end of Girls Water Polo 2023 Illinois February. That’s four weeks earlier Coach of the Year. Giuliani was un- than registration opened last summer. able to attend the board meeting.

Patrick Baker, the district’s director of arts, physical education Construction update The meeting also featured a preand health, spoke during the spotlights and recognitions segment to sentation about upcoming construccongratulate the district’s middle tions and renovations at Madison school students who were selected Early Childhood Center, which has for the Illinois Music Education an enrollment of approximately 315 Association (ILMEA) District 1 Ju- students. The project to upgrade nior Festivals. Baker stated that the the center is one of the district’s selected students prepared for and remaining projects related to the completed rigorous auditions to be 2018 referendum, in which voters chosen to participate in an ensemble approved the borrowing of $168.5 million to pay for improving the at the festivals.

York Principal Jessica Hurt district’s facilities.

Todd Schmidt, the district’s dispoke briefly during the spotlights and recognitions segment to high- rector of facilities, stated that the light some of the recent events at center was originally an elementathe school. Hurt mentioned that all ry school, then an administrative of the school’s juniors sat for the building, before being utilized as Preliminary SAT (PSAT) exam in an early childhood center. He said October. Hurt stated there are a lot the upcoming construction project of academic and extracurricular op- will include security upgrades, new portunities for York students. She windows, new cameras, a new heatalso noted that she was excited to ing, ventilation and air conditioning attend the IHSA girls cross-country (HVAC) system and the scattering state meet, which took place in Peo- of restroom facilities throughout the ria in November. Hurt watched the building. Construction is scheduled Dukes win the IHSA Class 3A state to begin in July. The building won’t be open to students during the 2024championship at the meet.

25 school year.

Madison Early Childhood CenPublic forum Two people spoke during the ter students will use classrooms at meeting’s public-participation seg- Field Elementary School and Edi-

Public workshop scheduled to discuss Downtown Plan

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son Elementary School during the be about $16 million. If the district provided an abatement of about 2024-25 school year. $630,000, the debt service payments would be about $15.4 million. She Comprehensive financial said that with that abatement, the presentation The meeting included a short pre- owner of a district home valued at sentation about the district’s annual $529,650 would see a reduction of comprehensive financial report for about $39 in their district portion of its 2023 fiscal year. Scott Duen- taxes, from about $7,514 to about ser from the district’s accounting $7,475. firm—Wipfli—spoke during the presentation and referred to a 120- New website host approved Board members voted unanipage report about the district’s finances. Duenser stated that inflation mously during the meeting to apis a big issue for school districts, prove, pending legal review, a conand that districts have to be vigilant tract with Apptegy to serve as the in watching their finances. He also new host company for the district’s said that districts do not want to website. The contract with Apptegy have continually dropping fund bal- includes a three-year commitment ances. The board members did not with an option to renew for an addiask Duenser any questions during tional two years. The remainder of the current school year will include the meeting.

The meeting also featured a pre- the migration of content, building sentation about options for abate- the website and staff review. The ment that would reduce property district’s goal is to fully launch its taxes for debt service. Elizabeth updated website in time for the start Hennessy, a managing director for of the 2024-25 school year. The Raymond James, spoke during the district’s annual contract fees for meeting. Hennessy, who advises its current website have been about the district, provided a couple of $40,000 in each of the last four options for the district to consider years. The district could reportedly regarding abatement to reduce the save about $18,000 per year in its deal with Apptegy. district’s debt service extension.

Hennessy referred to 2023 reassessment growth of 5.93 percent, Middle school schedule which would mean that a home that approved The board also voted unanimoushad a market value of $500,000 would now have a market value of ly to approve its 2024-25 middle $529,650. The district has frequent- school schedule, which includes 55 ly used the $500,000 figure as a minutes daily for English Language benchmark, but Hennessy said she Arts, along with 55 minutes daily was now using the updated figure of for math, 55 minutes daily for sci$529,650 in referring to impacts on ence and 55 minutes daily for social studies. The biggest shifts for the district homeowners.

The district’s deadline for a debt new schedule are that science and service abatement resolution for social studies instruction will occur the 2023 tax levy is Feb. 29, 2024, daily during the upcoming school Hennessy said. She noted that debt year. The new schedule will continservice payments include all out- ue to include 40 minutes daily for standing bonds. She said that in the electives. The district offers nine 2020 tax levy, the board approved elective options to its middle school what she described as a rather large students, including band, orchestra, abatement of nearly $3.2 million choir and Spanish.

District 205 Superintendent Keisto district taxpayers. In 2021, there was no abatement, while in 2022, ha Campbell stated that while there there was an abatement of about is no perfect schedule, the district is doing its best to create and develop $970,000 for debt service.

Hennessy said that if the district a schedule that closely aligns to the provided no abatement for debt ser- values of the community.

The board will hold its next reguvice in the 2023 levy, the district’s 2023 debt service payments would lar meeting on Feb. 20.

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The City of Elmhurst has announced the kick-off of the Elmhurst Downtown Plan with a public workshop on Tuesday, Feb. 13 from 6:30 to 8 p.m. at City Hall. All are invited to participate.

The Plan will serve as the City’s official guide for downtown growth and development. The Public Workshop will be the first of many opportunities to get involved in the planning process for the new Downtown Plan.

This event will allow residents and stakeholders to provide input before any plan recommendations are formulated. Attendees will learn about the planning process to be under-

taken and the project schedule. The project team will give a presentation and conduct a “Downtown issues and opportunities” activity with attendees.

When completed, the Elmhurst Downtown Plan will be the product of the community with a vision and recommendations guided by valuable input received from residents, business owners, community leaders and other stakeholders.

Over the next year, residents should stay active and aware of the project as it progresses by tracking it through the project website, which will be available soon through elmhurst.org .

The Elmhurst Independent - Thursday, Jan. 25, 2024 • 5

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6 • Thursday, Jan. 25, 2024 - The Elmhurst Independent

Police beat

The Elmhurst Police Department recently reported the following arrests and citations.

Persons charged with domestic battery are not named in order to protect the privacy of victims.

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

hours each night for several weeks. The sus- parking deck sometime between the above dates. pect was served with a no-trespass notice.

Assault, battery

Theft, retail theft, burglary, attempted theft or burglary, forgery, deceptive practice, obstruction, robbery

Jan. 13 Samantha L. Dobrowolski, 18, of Elmhurst, was charged with battery in the 600 block of W. Belden at 11:28 a.m. Police said officers responded to a call for a battery that had just occurred where two females attacked a victim. The females allegedly fled in a vehicle. A traffic stop was conducted on the vehicle and one of the two suspects was found, according to police. Officers were able to locate the second suspect, a juvenile, at another residence a short time later. The juvenile was released without charges and will be referred to DuPage County juvenile probation for charges.

Criminal trespass, criminal damage to property Jan. 16 Gage Sarbacker, 29, of Zion, was charged with criminal trespass to a vehicle, obstructing identification, driving while license revoked, avoiding a traffic control device, improper display of registration and no insurance subsequent to a traffic stop near York and Van Buren at 2:57 a.m.

Jan. 14 Leslie Perez, 39, of Glendale Heights, was issued citations for improper passing of an emergency vehicle, damage to city property, and leaving the scene of an accident near North and I-290 at 10:48 p.m.

Domestic battery, domestic incident, disorderly conduct, disturbance, dispute Jan. 12 Glennie L. Hampton, 27, of Elmhurst, was cited for disorderly conduct/breach of peace at an extended stay facility in the 500 block of W. Grand at 4:19 a.m. Police said Hampton was acting unruly and threatening other guests in the lobby.

Andres R. Reyes, 54, of Elmhurst, was issued a citation for disorderly conduct and served with a no-trespass notice in the 600 block of Albert at 10:51 a.m. Police said the suspect was yelling into a neighbor’s doorbell camera.

DUI, DUI-drugs, transportation of open alcohol, possession of open alcohol, consumption of alcohol by a minor Jan. 17 Renaka K. Fecher, 26, of Wheaton, was charged with DUI and no insurance subsequent to a well-being check in the 100 block of N. Addison at 2:24 a.m.

Jan. 11 A victim in the 200 block of N. Glade told police that an unknown Amazon delivery driver dropped off an expected package and then appeared to reach and attempt to open the front door of her porch. Further investigation is pending.

CALL 800-222-TIPS Jan. 14 Daniel Newton, 57, of Hazel Crest, was charged with DUI near York and First at 9:33 p.m.

Jan. 11 Alejandro Pulido, 56, of Naperville, was charged with DUI, failure to yield to an emergency vehicle, improper lane usage, expired registration and no insurance subsequent to a traffic stop near North and River Glen at 1:21 a.m.

Police said that subsequent to a suspicious vehicle near Cedar and Adams at 12:06 a.m., a reporting officer conducted a traffic stop and the driver was found to be driving under the influence of alcohol. The driver was taken into custody and was released ithout charges pending lab results.

Fleeing, eluding

According to information provided last week by the Elmhurst Police Department, police reported two incidents of fleeing and eluding during which the driver of a vehicle fled the scene after being stopped for a traffic stop by police.

Identity theft, fraud, forgery

According to information provided by the Elmhurst Police Department, police reported three incidents of identity theft or fraud.

Possession of a controlled substance Jan. 15 Wayne Spikings, 48, of Elmhurst, was charged with possession of a controlled substance, driving while license revoked and failure to reduce speed to avoid an accident near North and Highview at 10:38 a.m.

Possession of cannabis in a vehicle

According to information provided last week by the Elmhurst Police Department, police reported one incident of possession of cannabis by either the driver of a vehicle or a passenger: Noel Caraballo, 32, of Chicago, near York and Fremont at 6:35 p.m. Jan. 16.

Suspicious circumstances

Jan. 12 Police said that subsequent to a report for a suspicious person at a pharmacy in the 100 block of W. North at 4:26 a.m., a complainant related the suspect had been in their restroom for hours. The reporting officer made contact with the suspect who admitted that she has been staying at the above location for a few

Jan. 17 Police said a reporting officer responded to a pharmacy in the 100 block of W. North for a retail theft that had just occurred. It was reported the suspect had stolen an unknown quantity of merchandise and left the scene in a vehicle.

An investigation is pending.

A victim at a fitness center in the 600 block of N. York told police that an unknown suspect(s) removed his jacket from his unlocked locker while he was working out.

Jan. 15 Dariel Castillo Morale, 35, of Chicago, was charged with retail theft, burglary, unlawful possession of a controlled substance and unlawful possession of cannabis at a store in the 300 block of S. Route 83 at 3:06 p.m. Police said that subsequent to a retail theft in progress, the suspect was found to be in possession of stolen merchandise.

Jan. 12 A victim at a pharmacy in the 100 block of N. Palmer told police that she accidentally left her wallet inside a shopping basket upon exiting the store. When she returned a short time later, it was gone. Video footage shows an unknown suspect picked up the basket prior to the victim returning to the store. An investigation is pending.

Police said a reporting officer responded to a store in the 300 block of S. Route 83 for a delayed retail theft. A complainant related an unknown female suspect ran out of the store with a basket full of clothing items and fled the scene in a silver sedan. An investigation is pending.

Unlawful use of a weapon Jan. 15 Daniel Quintero, 23, of Lombard, was charged with DUI, two counts of unlawful use of a weapon, possession of ammo, possession of a firearm without a FOID card, unlawful possession of cannabis by the driver, unlawful possession of open alcohol in a motor vehicle, disobeying a traffic control device and illegal parking where prohibited subsequent to a traffic stop in the 600 block of W. North at 10:49 p.m.

Jan. 12 Joseph Bruno, 39, of Chicago, was charged with aggravated unlawful use of a weapon, driving with a suspended registration and no insurance subsequent to a traffic stop near Route 83 and I-290 at 6:37 p.m. Police said that Bruno was found to have a valid warrant out of DuPage County.

A search of the vehicle yielded a firearm Jan. 8-Jan. 15 A complainant told police that five fire ex- that was reported stolen out of Woodridge, tinguishers were stolen from the Larch Avenue according to police.

Addison man charged after leading police on high-speed chase Three spike strip maneuvers, taser finally stop suspect

DuPage County State’s Attorney Robert Berlin and Villa Park Chief of Police Michael Rivas have announced that Judge Joshua Dieden granted the state’s motion to deny pre-trial release for an Addison man accused of leading police on Oscar Salazar a high-speed chase.

Oscar Salazar, 35, of Addison, is charged with two counts of aggravated fleeing and eluding a police officer (Class 4 felony) and multiple misdemeanor and petty traffic offenses including aggravated speeding in a school zone.

On Wednesday, Jan. 17 at approximately 9:01 p.m., the Villa Park Police Department observed a vehicle in a grocery store parking lot that was suspected of fleeing from Bloomingdale police several days ago.

After a brief period of surveillance, the vehicle, allegedly driven by Salazar, pulled out of the parking lot and the officers followed the vehicle for approximately one mile before additional officers joined in. When the officers activated their emergency lights and sirens near Addison Road and Division Street to conduct a traffic stop, Salazar allegedly would not pull over.

It is alleged that after Salazar disobeyed a stop sign at Sunset Drive, an officer pulled up next to Salazar and deployed a mobile spike strip, disabling the right rear tire of the vehicle.

Salazar continued to drive, disobeying multiple

stop lights, and ultimately, traveling westbound on North Ave., reportedly reaching speeds of approximately 80 mph. It is alleged that as Salazar maneuvered through an intersection against a red light, officers again deployed spike strips, disabling the front right tire.

Salazar reportedly continued to drive toward I-355 and as he attempted to enter the I-355 southbound ramp, officers deployed spike strips for the third time, causing the vehicle to come to a stop. It is further alleged that officers gave multiple commands to Salazar to exit the vehicle and when he refused, officers were forced to deploy tasers. Salazar was taken into custody at that time.

Rivas praises help from Elmhurst, other agencies “The public should know police departments in this region work really well together to arrest all alleged offenders who put citizens in harm’s way,” Rivas said. “Emergency lights and sirens signify we need the public to comply. In this incident, the alleged offender showed a complete disregard for the safety of others as well as the law.

“We can’t thank the law enforcement agencies of Elmhurst, Lombard and the DuPage County Sheriff’s Office enough for their assistance to our brave Villa Park officers.”

Salazar’s next court appearance is scheduled Monday, Jan. 29 for arraignment in front of Judge Ann Celine O’Hallaren Walsh.

The Elmhurst Independent - Thursday, Jan. 25, 2024 • 7

21 defendants charged with stealing from DuPage businesses since Jan. 1

–Robert Berlin

4. The court denied the state’s motion to detain Perez Bolivar pre-trial.

• Nikhyra Steele, 25, of Chicago—Accused of stealing $399.88 worth of merchandise from the Oak Brook Nordstrom rack on Jan. 5. Additionally, Steele allegedly kicked a police officer multiple times while being arrested. The court denied the state’s motion to detain Steele pretrial.

• Daevondre Powell, of Chicago—Accused of stealing three pairs of Air Jordan shoes worth approximately $389 from the Oak Brook Nike store on Jan. 6. The court denied the state’s motion to detain Powell pretrial.

• Juliane Cerone, 56, of Lombard—Accused of stealing more than $300 worth of merchandise from the Lombard JCPenney at the Yorktown Shopping Center on Jan. 7. Cerone was released from custody pending trial.

• Kelis Kirkland, 18, of Bartlett and four male juveniles—Accused of stealing approximately $4,400 worth of merchandise from a Naperville vape store on Jan. 10. The court denied the state’s motion to detain Kirkland pretrial. Three of the four juveniles were detained until at least their next court appearance.

• Vanessa Froschauer, 21, of Naperville—Accused of stealing approximately $2,059 worth of merchandise from a Naperville Target store on Jan. 10. Froschauer was released pre-trial.

• Alexandria Salno, 19, of Glen Ellyn—Accused of stealing approximately $423.70 worth of merchandise from a Wheaton Target store on Jan. 10. Salno was released pre-trial.

• Samander Mamurov, 21, of New York—Accused of stealing approximately $867.49 worth of merchandise from the Oak Brook Macy’s on Jan. 10. The court denied the state’s motion to detain Mamurov pre-trial.

• Anthony De La Torre, 35, of Melrose Park—Accused of stealing $917.74 worth of liquor from a Villa Park Jewel-Osco on Jan. 10.

De La Torre was released pre-trial.

• Heather Maniglia, 36, of Woodridge and Dontrell Nelson, 36, of Maywood—Accused of stealing more than $300 worth of liquor from a Downers Grove Jewel on Jan. 11. Both defendants were released pre-trial.

• Mariya Kaleemuddin, 20, of Addison and two juveniles—Accused of stealing more than $300 worth of beauty products from a Glendale Heights Target store on Jan. 11. All three defendants were released pre-trial.

• Susie Reyer, 45, of Willowbrook—Accused of stealing more than $300 worth of clothing from the Oak Brook Nordstrom on Jan. 13. Reyer was released pre-trial.

Obando-Andrade’s next court appearance is scheduled Feb. 13 for arraignment in front of Judge Michael Reidy.

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DuPage County State’s Attorney Robert Berlin and Oak Brook Chief of Police Brian Strockis have announced that Judge Michael Burton granted the State’s motion to deny pre-trial release for an Ecuadorian migrant currently staying in Chicago charged with stealing merchandise from the Oak Brook Macy’s.

Jaime Ubaldo Obando-Andrade, 32, appeared in First Appearance Court and is charged with one count of burglary (Class 2 felony) and one count of retail theft (Class 3 felony).

On Jan. 13 at approximately 7:37 p.m., officers with the Oak Brook Police Department responded to a call of a retail theft at the Macy’s, located at 1 Oakbrook Center.

Following an investigation into the matter, it is alleged that Obando-Andrade entered the store, selected a jacket with an approximate value of $395, put the jacket on and then left the store without paying for the jacket. A loss prevention officer confronted Obando-Andrade in the vestibule of the store where he remained until Oak Brook officers arrived and arrested Obando-Andrade. When searching Obando-Andrade’s vehicle, officers found approximately $3,000 worth of suspected stolen merchandise as well as rolls of tinfoil.

Officers also found an I.C.E. electronic monitoring device that the defendant had allegedly cut off as well as a fictitious Washington driver’s license with the defendant’s photograph but in a different name.

“With the new year, our mission to protect DuPage County businesses and patrons remains the same,” Berlin said. “Contrary to popular belief, retail theft is not a victimless crime and has a far-reaching effect on the entire community.”

“This was an excellent example of solid police work and looking beyond the initial incident,” Strockis said.

DuPage County continues its crackdown on retail theft, charging 21 individuals accused of stealing merchandise from DuPage County retail establishments in the first two weeks of 2024. The most recent arrests include: • Jorge Gimenez-Sanchez, 21, of Chicago—Accused of stealing approximately $328 worth of merchandise from the Oak Brook Nordstrom on Jan. 2. When searching his vehicle, officers found approximately $563.50 worth of merchandise allegedly stolen from Macy’s. The court denied the state’s motion to detain Gimenez-Sanchez pre-trial.

• Saidbek Shukhratov, 27, of Barrington—Accused of stealing approximately $440 worth of merchandise from Oak Brook Macy’s on Jan. 2. The court denied the state’s motion to detain Shukhratov pre-trial.

• Beisy A Perez Bolivar, 38, a Venezuelan migrant staying in Chicago—Accused of stealing approximately $417 worth of merchandise from the Oak Brook Macy’s on Jan.

8 • Thursday, Jan. 25, 2024 - The Elmhurst Independent

The Elmhurst Independent

Viewpoint

Jan. 25, 2024 • 8

Slices of life

More in 2024

Someone I’ve never met (social media, where else?) came up with a phrase for the new year: “Let’s do more in 2024.”

I’ve decided to adopt it for my own, because it’s well-balanced, makes logical sense and has good meaning, purpose and intent.

Plus it rhymes; who doesn’t appreciate a good rhyme?

But what, exactly, do I want more of in the next year? What do we all want?

The basics, of course. Here’s my short list: More peace.

Isn’t this a nice thought? More peace: world peace, governmental peace, neighborhood peace, hippy peace, familial peace, marital peace and - most importantly— inner peace.

Peace is all-encompassing and all-good. There can never be too much peace. Unless you are talking an extra piece of pie after eating one already, but that’s a different kind of peace and doesn’t count, unless it’s in calories.

More kindness.

Kindness ranks right up there with peace; the two are twin equals, or at the very least kissing cousins. Kindness begets peace and vice versa.

Kindness is equally effective with family members, friends and strangers. It takes little to no effort and provides positive feel-goods to the giver as well as the receiver.

Kindness costs nothing and it is something we all possess in infinite amounts.

Not even chocolate can claim that many attributes.

More faith.

I’m not necessarily talking about the kind you get in church. Faith— and a deepened trust—reside far beyond church. That’s the faith I aspire to. Faith in nature—that trees will shed their leaves in the fall; dandelions will sprout optimistically each spring. Trust in the human spirit—people are innately good. Trust in the future.

Trust in today. Trust in yourself.

Trust in something bigger than yourself.

That’s faith.

More doing and participating.

I don’t know about you, but I’ve spent nearly a lifetime thinking about the things I’d like to do.

Now is the time to actually do them.

To participate for real. These bucket-list acts don’t need to be earth-shattering or life changing.

They just need to be you doing them. Maybe that means world

By

JILL PERTLER Columnist

travel; maybe that means staying home and reading a good book.

You do what means doing to you, just do it more, in 2024.

More connectivity.

But not to our phones or the internet. More than ever we need to realize and appreciate our connections to one another. We are all part of the whole. We may think of ourselves as individuals, be we are, truly, nothing without each other.

No one is an island. We not only need one another; we are better together. Connections enhance our lives and make the world a better place—one handshake, one hug, at a time.

More light.

Of the kind that requires no battery-power or electricity. True light is a beacon that knows no physical power source. We all have a light that shines from within however cliche or corny that may sound.

It’s true. Open up. Flip your inner light switch to “On.” Together we can illuminate the world, and that, my friends, can change everything.

More love.

You probably saw this one coming. The most basic tenet of all: we need more love. We can never overdose on love. We can never give too much of it. When we think about basic needs, we list food, water and shelter, but love should be at the top of the list— in both the giving and receiving mode.

Just like kindness, giving love provides just as much as receiving it does, perhaps even more so.

Doing more in 2024; More peace. More kindness. More faith. More participation. More connectedness. More light and more love. Seven aspirations for the year. Lofty? Perhaps. Doable?

I think so. Maybe take one each day of the week. Maybe try them all at once.

Either way, you can’t go wrong.

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.

The need to provide emergency funding to help cities, nonprofits care for migrant arrivals

By U.S. Rep. Raja Krishnamoorthi Last week, I spoke on the House Floor about the importance of Congress not only addressing border security, but also passing emergency supplemental aid to support local governments and nonprofit organizations caring for newly arrived migrant families.

These families, many of whom have been dropped off in new cities without their consent, are left without stable housing options during the dead of winter. While organizations including Catholic Charities of Chicago are making an enormous difference in helping to move these families out of police stations and into reliable housing, they cannot do it alone.

That’s why I urge Congress to pass emergency supplemental relief to help migrants like three-year-old Jose Urribarri, who is one of the many people who have been left without housing options amid freezing Chicago winter temperatures. I urge House and Senate leadership to pass emergency supplemental aid to cities to bring help and safety to the many families who need it so badly this winter.

This type of degree-based discrimination in hiring not only hurts skilled workers, but also businesses and our entire economy by preventing us from making the most of our workforce. I introduced my bipartisan Opportunity to Compete Act to end this and help ensure that Americans who have developed the skills necessary to succeed in a job don’t hit a ‘paper ceiling’ of being rejected simply because they lack a piece of paper in the form of a four-year degree. As we work to strengthen our middle class and our economy, it is critical that we expand apprenticeships and skills-based education while also ensuring that the workers benefiting from them can reach their full potential so our economy can do the same.

Supporting Taiwan’s democracy and others against Chinese Communist Party interference On Jan. 13, Taiwan successfully held free and democratic elections despite attempted interference, coercion, and threats from the Chinese Communist Party (CCP).

Beyond its significance as a single election, the stability of Taiwan’s democracy in the face of the machinations of the CCP is an important example for the world’s democracies as the CCP and similar totalitarian regimes Preparing the American economy continue their efforts to destabilize and weaken the free for the 21st century by ending nations of the world, especially the United States. degree-based hiring discrimination To address these issues and discuss my work on them The House Committee on Accountability and Oversight as the Ranking Member of the Select Committee on the recently held a subcommittee hearing on moving towards Strategic Competition Between the United States and an AI-ready workforce and strengthening our economy. the CCP, I joined a Politico discussion panel with my During the hearing, I took the opportunity to question colleague Congressman Andy Barr, Yun Fan, a legislator Timi Harda, a Client Partner and Senior Executive for West and member of the Taiwanese Democratic Progressive Virginia IBM, and Dr. Richard Levin, the former President Party, and Jason Hsu, Harvard Kennedy School Fellow and a former Taiwanese legislator. of Yale University and a Senior Advisor to Coursera, As our discussion emphasized, while the threats posed on the importance of workers who are Skilled Through by the CCP to Taiwan are unique as a matter of its close Alternative Routes (STARs). physical proximity to the People’s Republic of China and This category of workers does not have a bachelor’s their shared history, the CCP’s political and economic degree but have acquired valuable professional skills coercion against Taiwan are indicative of the threats posed through other means such as apprenticeships, internships, and previous work experience. However, due to automated by the regime to other U.S. partners and allies in the region, as well as to our own country. hiring systems, which many companies use to help screen Raja Krishnamoorthi represents the 8th Congressional job applicants, applications by qualified workers who do District of Illinois, which includes part of Addison, Wood not have a four-year degree are being filtered out, even Dale and Bensenville. when a bachelor’s degree is irrelevant to the role.

The Elmhurst Independent - Thursday, Jan. 25, 2024 • 9

Levin says State of the City good at all levels Quigley to retire by end of ‘25

By Dee Longfellow

FOR THE ELMHURST INDEPENDENT

Things are ship-shape in the City of Elmhurst, according to Mayor Scott Levin who delivered the annual State of the City address to a group of 150 business and community leaders on the chilly morning of Thursday, Jan. 18.

Hosted by the Elmhurst Chamber of Commerce & Industry (ECCI), the event was held at Community Bank of Elmhurst (CBE), which was the event sponsor. The breakfast was catered by Fresh Start.

CBE’s Ken Bartels opened by noting that this year, the bank has been in business for 30 years and that this was its 25th year hosting the State of the City address. In the same vein, Bartels announced that the Elmhurst Children’s Assistance Foundation (ECAF) was reaching the 30-year milestone as well this year and is planning a celebration on Saturday, March 2 at River Forest Country Club.

In his introduction of ECCI president and CEO John R. Quigley, Bartels spoke of Quigley’s service over the past 25 years since 1999.

“Under John’s leadership, the Chamber has remained steadfast in its leadership of the business community through such major events as 9-11, the recession of ’07-’09, and more recently, the pandemic of 2020,” he said. “Thanks to John, the Chamber has remained constant through good times and bad.”

Bartels announced a fundraiser for the American Legion THB Post 187, scheduled on Friday, Feb. 2, when four of the most recent mayors and others in the community will “roast” Quigley. Tickets are $25 per person and can be purchased at the ECCI web site, or by snapping a photo of the QR Code on one of the flyers. Proceeds benefit the Legion.

In his State of the Chamber remarks, Quigley said there were 420 ECCI members at the present time. He announced that the A. J. “Toche” Terrones Business of the Year for 2023 would be awarded to Alan Energy Services, operated by Eric Weech. The honor will be presented at the 105th Annual ECCI Awards Gala on Friday, March 22, as will the Ambassador of the Year

DEE LONGFELLOW PHOTOS Elmhurst Independent

Following the State of the City address delivered by Elmhurst Mayor Scott Levin, Elmhurst Chamber Mayor Scott Levin delivers the ECCI’s annual State of the City members and other guests were on their feet, applauding. Not only did the mayor do a good job, he deaddress to a packed room on livered mostly good news. State of the City? Good.

Thursday, Jan. 18.

award to Eva Sanchez of @properties for the second time.

The Chairman’s Award will be bestowed upon Colin Dalough of Endeavor Health, recently installed as the 2024 Chairman of the Board.

Dalough briefly addressed the room, thanking members for their investment in the Chamber.

Among the honorees at the Awards Gala will be Dan Gibbons of the Dan Gibbons Turkey Trot Foundation, who will be inducted into the Civic Hall of Fame.

Quigley shared the news that Jennifer Veremis has accepted the full-time position of Membership Administrator. She happens to be an alderman, representing the City’s First Ward.

Offering his own plans for the future and his vision for the ECCI over the next two years, Quigley said he plans to retire by the end of 2025 at the latest, possibly sooner.

percentage. About 85% goes to the schools. We work hard to be good stewards of the dollar.”

Levin said the City currently has 25% cash reserves.

“The Finance Department has a new computer system, which was a great undertaking for [staff]. Soon you will be able to apply for permits and licenses online.”

Traffic congestion With the revitalization and the new residential properties along Addison St. over the past few years, downtown traffic remains an issue of contention for residents and businesses, Levin said.

“We’re committed to enhance traffic flow, safety, mitigate congestion.

“We looked at the issue holistically and divided the City into areas and went area-by-area, [conducting] a city-wide traffic analysis. We started in the First Ward at Elmhurst [University]. [The Public Affairs and Safety Committee] made remarkable progress.

“We learned that instead of saying, ‘I want a stop sign,’ or ‘I want a crosswalk,’ we need to ask, ‘in this area, what do we need so that traffic flows?’”

Levin begins on a bright note “We are a City of planners,” Levin said as he began his remarks. “We have a process in place and we spend a lot of time planning. That is what keeps our City strong.”

He said the City’s financials are currently in good shape and there would be no property tax increase, Seeing red? and yet, all the City’s services to its One of the “answers” proposed to residents will remain constant. that question was to remove all Yield “Bear in mind, [the City’s] por- signs. tion of the property tax bill is a small “The reason is, people don’t real-

ly stop at a Yield sign, they may not see a pedestrian or children trying to cross, and they really do not help the flow of traffic.

“As we continue down this road, we are likely to see less and less yellow and more and more red.”

Fire, police departments remain top notch Fire Chief Dick Dufort and the Fire Department were praised, having handled 7,000 calls over the past year.

“Other towns are saying it’s hard to get firefighters these days, but we don’t have a big problem because we take care of our personnel,” Dufort said. “We pay well, we train well, and we equip the department in the best, most up-to-date, stateof-the-art equipment available.”

Like everything else, fire engines work hard and eventually grow old and less efficient. Levin said a new fire engine will be needed either later this year or early in 2025.

Levin also commended Police Chief Mike McLean, who stepped up following the death of Chief Michael Ruth. He added that for the first time in a long time, the police department is fully staffed.

Other police points: “The police responded to 42,000 incidents over the past year.

“We purchased a drone. McLean said, there couldn’t be a more important piece of equipment for law

enforcement.

“We added a second K-9, giving us two in total, very few communities can say that.”

Economic development—the engine that drives us “I remember Mayor Tom Marcucci always said, ‘keep your foot on the gas’ in terms of economic development and never let it up. This year, we’ve seen $817 million in new investment in our community,” Levin said.

Levin pointed out the retail vacancy rate in Elmhurst is currently at 2%, while DuPage County is at 7.5%.

Other points: • The City continues its resurfacing and landscaping efforts with the goal to be one of the most bikeable and walkable cities in the area. It is working with the Elmhurst Bicycle Club and supporting its mission of encouraging people to bicycle.

• A total of 6,600 street lights throughout the City have all been replaced with LED bulbs. The energy savings is expected to pay back the cost of the project in just two years.

• Residents are urged to sign up for the new ALERTS program to learn about City news as it happens.

• The City and the Elmhurst Youth Commission are currently seeking nominations of outstanding young people for the Youth Volunteer Service Awards.

Drivers urged to check DMV availability during cold snap Giannoulias’ ‘Do-it-Online, Skip-the-Line’ initiative means more accessibility to services

Due to inclement weather conditions, Illinois Secretary of State Alexi Giannoulias is encouraging those seeking Secretary of State services at Driver and Motor Vehicle facilities to call (800) 2528980 or visit www.ilsos.gov to ensure

availability.

“In times of inclement weather, like the current cold snap the state is experiencing this week, Illinoisans should check ahead to ensure that they have access to the services they require before heading out to

the DMV,” Giannoulias said. “We’ve also made more services available online at www.ilsos.gov so people no longer need to visit a DMV.” In addition to more services now available online at ilsos.gov as a part

of Giannoulias’ “Do-it-Online, Skipthe-Line” approach, the office has made design changes to its website to make all available online services more accessible and expanded eligibility for online driver’s license and state ID renewals.

10 • Thursday, Jan. 25, 2024 - The Elmhurst Independent

Obituaries

Jeanne Crippin, 80 Jeanne Crippin (nee Hays), age 80, passed away on January 11 after a valiant battle with pancreatic cancer.

Those mourning her most are Larry, her devoted husband of 58 years; grateful children David (Maggie Nowak) Crippin and Rachel (Chris) Clark; adoring grandchildren Alex, Andrew and Renatta; fond stepbrothers Bob (late Sue Ann) Krakoski and Joe (Kay) Krakoski Jr. and dear brother-in-law Jerry (late Harriet) Vacketta. However, she also leaves behind countless friends and extended family members who consider themselves lucky to have known her.

Jeanne was born in Westville, Ill. and attended Illinois Wesleyan University.

She worked as a nursing supervisor at the Illinois State Psychiatric Institute and a nurse in private practice before earning a graduate degree in counseling psychology from what was then George Wil-

liams College. She worked as a therapist for many years before “retiring” to sell antiques. The antique business, which she just recently gave up after her diagnosis, brought her much joy and led to many interesting conversations and lasting friendships while she worked to preserve small (and large) pieces of history.

Throughout much of her life, Jeanne was an active and loyal member of Alpha Omicron Pi, the sorority she joined in college. She held volunteer and leadership positions in her local alumni group, as well as serving as a regional director for collegiate chapters and on the archives and centennial committees for international headquarters.

She also volunteered in many positions at Bethel United Church of Christ, a community she held dear for over 50 years.

Over the years, so many friends, family members and even casual acquaintances (often much older or

younger), came to rely on her for advice, professional expertise, or just her good ear. She was strong, loyal, and believed everyone should get an equal chance at a good life.

While disappointed to leave this Earth earlier than she had anticipated, Jeanne was comforted to know she would be reunited in heaven with her beloved mother Berniece Etchison Hays Krakoski, father Ralph Hays, stepfather Joseph Krakoski, sister Harriet Vacketta, and stepsister Maryann (Ron) Jurek.

Visitation will be held Saturday, Feb. 3 from 9-11 a.m. at Bethel United Church of Christ, 315 E. St. Charles Road, Elmhurst, Ill. Also at the church, there will be a memorial service at 11 a.m. followed by a reception with light lunch, refreshments, and more remembrances.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Bethel UCC Memorial Garden at bethel-ucc.org/give or St. Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital at stjude.org/give.

Jim Breedlove, 66 Jim Breedlove, age 66, passed away peacefully on the afternoon of January 18th, 2024. He joins his late parents, Herb and Margaret Breedlove, as well as his brother Fred Breedlove and nephew Christopher Breedlove. He is the beloved husband of Barbara Breedlove (nee Fremgen.) He is the cherished father of Katherine and Samuel Breedlove. He is the loving brother of Judy Sanders and Warren (Pamela) Breedlove. He is the dearest uncle of Jeff Sanders and his daughter, Erin Sanders. Lisa Simpson, the cat, will dearly miss him as well.

Born in Virginia, Jim moved with his family to Chicago and lived there his whole life. Growing up, Jim worked his way through life as a Chicago heating and air conditioning specialist and owned his business

with his brother. He met Barbara while working at Chicago Lakeshore Hospital. They lived in the city for many years before moving to Elmhurst. He retired to a quiet life of periodically fishing, making the best sandwiches, and becoming a movie connoisseur - watching them religiously every night with family. He has always been a wonderful family man and will be dearly missed.

A visitation was held on Sunday, Jan. 21 at Elmhurst Community Funeral Home – THE AHLGRIM CHAPEL, 567 S. Spring Rd. Elmhurst, IL. A Mass of Christian Burial was held on Monday, Jan. 22 at Visitation Catholic Church.

In lieu of flowers, donations will be made to the National Down Syndrome Association.

For info, www.ElmhurstFH. com or (630) 834-3515.

We want to print your news!

What’s going on at your club or organization?

Seeking new members? Hosting a fundraiser?

Send details to independent@rvpublishing.com

Worship Services Directory 547 N. Main St. Lombard, IL 60148 (630) 627-2435

Sunday Worship at 10:15am Sunday School & Bible Study 9am Wednesday Service at 7pm Adult Bible Study Wednesdays after Service Ladies Bible Fellowship Mondays at 6:30pm Saturday, Jan. 27 Game Night at 4pm

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The Elmhurst Independent - Thursday, Jan. 25, 2024 • 11

GAME DAY IS th FEBRUARY 11

Lezza has all the celebration desserts for the BIG GAME! Football themed Cookies, Cannoli, Gelato and More!

We have it all and we’re open till 5pm on Sunday.

Don’t forget your Paczki!

Paczki Day is February 13th

We’re taking orders for your faves!

Our go-to flavors: Apple, Apricot, Bavarian Creme, Blueberry, Buttercream, Butter Plum, Cheese, Cherry, Fudge, Lemon, Pineapple, Raspberry and Strawberry. vvv Kick up your Paczki game with our Extreme Paczki Specialty Flavors: Cannoli, Fresh Strawberry, Banana, White Chocolate Mousse, Nutella and Chocolate Raspberry!

Pre-Order by February 10th

Valentine’s/ Galentine’s Day

We have the sweets for your very special Sweetie!

Flying solo or practicing self-care?

Our desserts are portioned for those wanting to treat themselves deliciously!

We’re full of love with our decadent heart cake for one or many, who doesn’t l-u-u-u-u-v-e a richly dressed strawberry?

Cooling things down? Try our Berry, Berry Raspberry Italian Ice or Gelato.

We’ll See You Soon!!

LEZZA BAKERY & GELATERIA

630-530-0630

www.lezza.com •

Follow us on for our Daily Specials

Store Hours: Sunday 8am-5pm — Closed Mondays — Tuesday-Saturday 7am-6pm

Sign-up for our E-blast so you stay up to date on all things Lezza.

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544 S. Spring Rd. Elmhurst, IL 60126

12 • Thursday, Jan. 25, 2024 - The Elmhurst Independent

The Elmhurst Independent

Real Estate/Business

Jan. 25, 2024 •12

COD to receive Rev Up Initiative grant funding Grant to support electric vehicle industry

Chamber welcomes new business

ELMHURST CHAMBER OF COMMERCE PHOTO Elmhurst Independent

At Modern Plate/Stage 119, 119 N. York, the Ambassadors of the Elmhurst Chamber of Commerce & Industry welcome owner Ted Zatos, partner Ted Fotos (with scissors) and general manager Eric Page at a new member ribbon cutting at their new downtown restaurant, bar and entertainment venue. It considers itself the “ultimate destination” for an interesting dining experience in Elmhurst. “You’ll not only indulge in exquisite flavors but also enjoy top-notch entertainment and exciting events,” the owners said.

EYFP receives significant grant to expand community impact Elmhurst-Yorkfield Food Pantry (EYFP), a pillar of support for the local community since 1983, has been awarded a very generous grant from Endeavor Health’s 2024 Community Investment Fund (CIF). This significant investment will bolster EYFP’s efforts to address food insecurity and enhance services for neighbors and children in need.

Founded in a small closet at the Yorkfield Presbyterian Church, EYFP has grown into a vital resource, currently serving over 600 clients monthly from nine Chicago area suburbs.

The food pantry operates seven days a week with the help of 300 dedicated volunteers facilitating food distribution, mobile pantries, and services at a low-income senior facility.

The grant from Endeavor Health

will be instrumental in supporting the expansion of EYFP’s facilities, providing funding for the new 6,000 square foot warehouse. This space features a large walk-in cooler and freezer, increased storage capacity, and areas for processing food drive donations and organizing supplies for mobile pantries and deliveries.

The enhancement aims to optimize efficiency in storing, processing, and distributing necessities to meet the growing demand for assistance in the local community.

“Elmhurst Yorkfield Food Pantry cannot begin to thank Endeavor Health enough for this amazing grant opportunity,” said Christopher Rosenberg, president of EYFP Board of Directors. “It could not come at a more opportune time. EYFP has ex-

perienced exponential growth over the past few years, putting tremendous strain on our existing facility and pushing our capacity to its limits.

This funding allows us to expand our capacity and grow our services to the community. This grant will change lives today, tomorrow, and in the foreseeable future.”

Endeavor Health selected Elmhurst-Yorkfield Food Pantry as one of 43 local organizations across the Chicagoland area to collaborate on programs focused on behavioral health, violence prevention, housing and food insecurity, access to care and workforce development.

“Our Community Investment Fund has made a remarkable impact since its launch in 2022, touching over 211,000 lives and supporting a signif-

icant expansion of behavioral health counseling, bilingual health education and mobile medical services in our communities,” said Kristen Murtos, chief innovation & transformation officer at Endeavor Health. “At Endeavor Health, we are not just funders but conveners, bringing together diverse groups to cultivate collaboration and innovation. We are thrilled to grow and deepen the impact of our Community Investment Fund this year, marking a significant step forward in our commitment to enhancing health and wellness across the communities we serve.”

For more information about the EYFP, visit eyfp.org. To learn more about Endeavor Health’s Community Investment Fund, visit endeavorhealth.org/cif.

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

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

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

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

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

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

Grantees are required to participate in the Illinois Green Economy Network (IGEN) led IL EV Network, an industry collaborative of key stakeholders from industry, higher education (faculty, staff, two-year and four-year), and state agencies to guide the expansion of light and heavy-duty Electric Vehicle training that satisfies industry demand for high-skill individuals.

“We are excited to work with these outstanding community colleges to discuss critical industry trends, talent needs in high-priority roles, systemwide strategies, barriers, solutions, and opportunities for collaboration to expand the EV/related advanced manufacturing workforce in Illinois,” said David Husemoller, executive director of IGEN.

The Elmhurst Independent - Thursday, Jan. 25, 2024 • 13

I Love Taking You to Your Next Home!

Success Stories 651 N Briar Hill Ln #6 Addison SOLD 941N Rohlwing Rd #201C Addison SOLD 919 Glendale St Bensenville SOLD 255 Grace Ave Bensenville SOLD 8251 S Oketo Ave Bridgeview SOLD 6256 W Montrose Ave Chicago SOLD 3828 W 57th Place Chicago SOLD 447 N Walnut Ave Elmhurst SOLD 542 W Crockett Ave Elmhurst SOLD 861 S Saylor Ave Elmhurst SOLD 253 N Emory Ave Elmhurst SOLD 944 S Parkside Ave Elmhurst SOLD 5257 Lemon Lane Hanover Park SOLD 1904 S 23RD Ave Maywood SOLD 10020 Parke Ave Oak Lawn SOLD 750 Hunter Dr Roselle SOLD 7904 Karlov Ave Skokie SOLD 1S259 Dillon Lane Villa Park SOLD 15301 Holyoke Ln Villa Park SOLD 208 Minuet Circle Volo SOLD

333 S Harvard Ave Addison SOLD 933 S York RD Bensenville SOLD 445 Judson St Bensenville SOLD 17W105 White Pine Rd Bensenville SOLD 621 Keystone Dr Bolingbrook SOLD 8576 McKinley Ave Belvidere SOLD 214 Shawnee Dr Bolingbrook SOLD 2255 W 111th PL Chicago SOLD 15W040 Concord St Elmhurst SOLD 833 N Addison Ave Elmhurst SOLD 470 N Ida Ln Elmhurst SOLD 29 Freesia Dr Romeoville SOLD 1043 Manchester Ct South Elgin SOLD 1625 N 40™ Ave Stone Park SOLD 17314 George Brennan Hwy Tinley Park SOLD 201 W Saint Charles Rd Villa Park RENTED 10317 Chaucer St Westchester SOLD 186 Raleigh Ct Wood Dale SOLD

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1210 Stoneham Bensenville SOLD 1516 N Taft Berkeley SOLD 352 Fox Bend Circle Bolingbrook SOLD 1310 Robin Dr Carol Stream SOLD 830 W 18th St Chicago RENTED 4204 W Thomas Chicago SOLD 2021 W Willow Chicago SOLD 5518 W 25th Cicero SOLD 1938 Spruce Ave Des Plaines SOLD 771 Chippewa Dr Elgin SOLD 1540 Dale Dr Elgin SOLD 197 W Butterfield Rd Elmhurst SOLD 805 S Euclid Ave Elmhurst SOLD 808 S Fairfield Elmhurst SOLD 600 S York Elmhurst SOLD 622 Grove Ln Forest Park SOLD 114 Glen Hill Dr Glendale Heights SOLD 1800 St Clair Ln Hanover Park SOLD 4834 Sunnyside Dr Hillside SOLD 7900 Howard Ave La Grange SOLD 1612 Kensington Ave Westchester SOLD

Eva Sanchez, REALTOR® call or text: (630) 561-8742

14 • Thursday, Jan. 25, 2024 - The Elmhurst Independent

NOW OPEN MODERN FOOD Welcome to Modern Plate Elmhurst, the ultimate destination for a unique dining experience in Elmhurst. At our restaurant-bar, you’ll not only indulge in exquisite flavors but also enjoy topnotch entertainment and exciting events. Our team of culinary experts takes pride in crafting flavors in motion, providing a culinary experience like no other.

119 N York St. Elmhurst, IL 60126 630-361-6304 www.ModernPlateElmhurst.com

LIVE MUSIC EVENTS & ENTERTAINMENT Immerse yourself in the vibrant culture and lively ambiance of Stage 119. Whether you’re a music enthusiast, comedy lover, or simply seeking a fantastic night out, our venue caters to all entertainment preferences. From local talent showcases to nationally acclaimed artists gracing our stage, there’s always something thrilling happening at Stage 119.

119 Commerce Ave. Elmhurst, IL 60126 630-501-1851 www.Stage119.com 4150027

The Elmhurst Independent - Thursday, Jan. 25, 2024 • 15

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16 • Thursday, Jan. 25, 2024 - The Elmhurst Independent

DuPAGE DESTINATIONS

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the Finest Selection of Italian Cuisine. Roberto’s Ristorante Features One-of-a-Kind Gourmet Specialties Custom Created by Experienced Chefs Inquire about our private party luncheons for Memorials, Corporate Meetings, Graduations, Confirmations, Weddings & Baptisms Try Our

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Editor’s note: If you have information on an Wheaton Recurring weekly on Tuesday, Wednesday, event in DuPage County taking place that you would like us to consider listing here, please Thursday, Friday, Saturday at the DuPage email that information to: news1@rvpublish- County Historical Museum, 102 E. Wesley St., The Chicago, Aurora, and Elgin Railway was ing.com one of the first known attempts at making an electric railway between Chicago and AuroOngoing ra. The Roarin’ Elgin exhibit will explore the North Suburban Carvers meetings The North Suburban Carvers meet on the ways in which this interurban railroad impactfirst and third Mondays of each month at the ed the lives of DuPage County residents ecoWood Dale Public Library from 6:30-8:30 nomically, socially, and culturally in the early p.m. Anyone interested in carving, power 20th century and what its closure meant for carving, wood burning or special finishing those it serviced. Admission: Free. For more techniques is welcome. North Suburban Carv- information, visit: https://dupagemuseum.org/ ers is a non-profit organization that promotes collections-exhibits. carving in the Chicago area. For more inforNow through April mation, visit: northsurburbancarvers.com Meet Me at the Fair: The Chicago World’s .org/calendar.aspx.

Fairs in DuPage County Recurring weekly on Tuesday, Wednesday, Now through March 1 Thursday, Friday and Saturday, in the 19th Central Athletic Complex ice rinks and 20th centuries, expositions and world fairs Wheaton At the Central Athletic Complex, 500 S. worked to celebrate the past while also highNaperville Road, weather permitting, the the lighting visions of the future. Chicago hosted temperature must stay below 40 degrees for up two expositions: The World’s Columbian Exto four days in order to make and maintain the position in 1893 and A Century of Progress ice surface. Advance reservations and tickets World’s Fair in 1933-34. Meet Me at the Fair: are required. Visit the Central Athletic Com- The Chicago World’s Fairs in DuPage Counplex Ice Rink facility page at wheatonparkdis- ty looks at the ways in which these two extrict.com to reserve a time slot and for further positions impacted DuPage County residents by exploring the various advancements of art, information. architecture, social issues, agriculture, and technology that were happening during these Now through March 23 130 WElgin: Vallette | Elmhurst The Roarin’ A Trip on the Chica- points of time. Admission: Free. For more information, visit: https://dupagemuseum.org/ go, Aurora and MamaMariasElmhurst.com collections-exhibits/.

Elgin Railway Thursday, Jan. 25 630-832-0555 through

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variety to plant this spring. Bring leftover seed packets or self-saved seeds to share. If you don’t have seeds to offer, come anyway. All are welcome to attend. Horticultural experts will be on hand to help with gardening questions. Enjoy how-to gardening demonstrations throughout the swap. For more information, visit: https://mortonarb.org/explore/ activities/adult-programs/seedswap.

Sunday, Jan. 28 NOFaustings, 3RD PARTY Frosty Lombard Recurring at The Westin, APPdaily FEES! 630-832-0555 Hotel 70 Our Yorktown, Frosty Faustings Drivers DOES NOT NO 3RD PARTY 130 W Vallette | Elmhurst is one of We the largest celebrations of INCLUDE TOPPINGS APP FEES! Deliver EXCLUDES HOLIDAYS Fighting Games and Open BrackScan to call!

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DINING | CARRY-OUT | DELIVERY Expires 12/21/23 buffet, and crafts Reservations Saturday, Jan. 27 Expires 12/21/23 CATERING | BANQUETS are required. Admission: $25 for Seed swap adults (plus tax), $30 for children Lisle 940 N. York From noon-3 p.m. at The Morton (plus tax). For more information, GARLIC BREADSTICKS ELMHURST any $15 pizza purchase with any $15 pizza purchase Arboretum, 4100 Route 53, join a visit: https://www.facebook.com/ WITH ANY 14”, HOURS community of growers at this free events/371030075310758.

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The Elmhurst Independent - Thursday, Jan. 25, 2024 • 17

Community calendar Pick of the Week City’s recycling event Saturday, Jan. 27

From 8 a.m. until 12 noon, the City is hosting a recycling event for electronics and for textiles at the Public Works facility, 985 S Riverside Dr. This is first of four recycling events planned quarterly in cooperation with DuPage County.

REMINDER:

City’s electronics, textile recycling event set for Saturday, Jan. 27

In cooperation with DuPage County, the City will host an Electronics and Textile/Clothing Recycling event on Saturday, Jan. 27 from 8 a.m. until 12 noon at the City’s Public Works facility, 985 S Riverside Drive. This is first of four recycling events planned quarterly at the Public Works facility with DuPage County. The other events will be held on the Saturdays of April 27, July 27, and Oct. 26.

Acceptable electronic items Computers, laptops, servers, computer monitors, televisions, printers, FAX machines, scanners, VCR and DVD players, video game consoles, cable and converter boxes, satellite receivers, electronic keyboards, mice, portable music players, holiday string lights, wire, cables, adapters, power supplies, cell phones, modems, tablets, phones, docking stations.

All acceptable items are FREE to donate, EXCLUDING the following: CRT, flat screens, projection TVs, monitors. Fees are: • Smaller than 21-inch screen = $25 per unit • 21-inch screen and larger = $35 per unit Payment details: A tax-deductible donation fee applies for all TVs and monitors.

Cash or credit card accepted, no checks. Payment may be made in advance at recycling.eworksesi.org or on site at the event. Coupon and tax-deductible receipts provided at time of drop-off.

Questions? Call (630) 407-6700 or visit dupagecounty.gov/ government/departments/environment_and_sustainability/recycling.

Unacceptable electronic items Large and small appliances, electronics from businesses, hazardous and chemical waste will NOT be accepted.

Textile and clothing recycling DuPage County has partnered with eWorks and RewearAble to collect clothing and textiles for reuse and recycling. Items not able to be reused will be turned into cleaning/painting rags or reused in insulation, as packing material or carpeting.

• Please ensure all of the textiles are dry • Remove all hangers • Remove any sharp objects Items of any kind that are WET OR DIRTY will NOT be accepted.

Acceptable categories • Clothes ANY KIND: tops, bottoms, socks, outerwear, underwear, accessories, paired shoes, suits.

• Shoes • Handbags • Bedding • Belts • Towels • Coats, hats, scarfs, gloves • Household items such as cloth tablecloths, cloth napkins, placemats • Swimsuits, coverups and baseball caps Unacceptable items: Wet items, kitchen supplies, hard items, sharp items, wood, office supplies, hard toys, glass items, tools, appliances, paper, games, books, strollers, metal items, dishes, lamps, blinds, wrapping paper, car seats, puzzles, figurines, plastic items, wall to wall rugs.

Thursday, Feb. 1 The Elmhurst Memorial Hospital Foundation’s annual Chef Fest will be held beginning at 6 p.m. at the Drury Lane Theatre & Conference Center, 100 Drury Ln. in Oakbrook Terrace. The event includes a variety of signature menu items produced by chefs from prominent local restaurants, bakeries and caterers, who donate their time and talent. Tickets are $150 per person (open bar included).

For tickets and info: emhfoundation. org/events or call (331) 221-0388.

Friday, Feb. 2 Guests are invited to a fundraiser for the Elmhurst American Legion THB Post 187 where the former Mayors of Elmhurst will conduct a “Roast” of ECCI president and CEO John R. Quigley. Tickets are $25 per person; must be 21 years or older.

gregational United Church of Christ, 235 S. Kenilworth, will accept preorders for certified organic vegetable, herb and annual flower seedlings. Seedlings can be ordered at the church website elmhurstucc.org/ store. Seedlings will be available for pick up at the church’s Green Garden Wednesday, Feb. 7 At 7 p.m. the Elmhurst AAUW Fair on Saturday, May 11. It’s never Area Branch invites all to hear Illi- too early to start thinking about your nois Comptroller Susanna Mendoza spring garden! address the status of “Fair Pay and Economic Equity for Women” in the Elmhurst History Museum The museum’s latest exhibit state. She will be speaking in the Illinois Room of Schaible Science Cen- is Lost Chicagoland Department ter at Elmhurst University, located at Stores. Admission to the Museum is Prospect and Elm Park Avs. Parking always free, although some events is available close to the building. carry a fee.

Program updates will be posted at: Elmhurst Art Museum elmhurstarea-il.aauw.net/ Info: elmhurstartistsguild.org or elmhurstartmuseum.org or 630-834Wednesday, Feb. 28 This is the final day that First Con- 0202.

Doors open at 6:30 p.m. The Roast will begin at 7 p.m. There will be a cash bar. All proceeds benefit the Legion Post THB 187. For tickets, visit elmhurstchamber.org/ For Members/ Chamber Events.

To post a community event or club meeting, email the information to Independent@rvpublishing.com and put Community Calendar” in the Subject line.

• Events

(Continued from page 16)

Friday, Feb. 2 Chocolate, cheese and wine-tasting Glen Ellyn From 5-7:30 p.m. at the Crowne Plaza Lombard Downers Grove, 1250 Roosevelt Road, Glen Ellyn, enjoy an evening of wine, spirits, chocolate and cheese tastings from around the world. The $40 per person admission ticket includes a souvenir wine glass, wine and spirit tastings, accompanied by chocolate, cheese and light bites from local Glen Ellyn restaurants. Dawn Bishop, a local professional harpist, will be performing during the event. All tastings will be available for purchase the day of the event. Must be 21 years of age or older to attend. Buy your tickets early; this event sold out last year. For more information, visit: https://business.glenellynchamber.com/events/details/chocolatecheese-and-wine-tasting-02-02-2024-10331.

Saturday, Feb. 3 Winterfest Lombard From 1:30-4 p.m. presented by the Lombard Park District at the Sunset Knoll Recreation Center, 820 Finley Road, don’t let cabin fever give your family the winter blues. Enjoy an afternoon of frozen winter fun. Be sure to bundle up because this indoor/outdoor event, featuring hot chocolate, games, crafts and more. For more information, visit: https://lombardparks.com/winter-fest.

Ice-A-Palooza Wheaton From 11 a.m.-1 p.m. sponsored by the Wheaton Park District at the Central Athletic Complex, 500 S. Naperville Road, Ice-A-Palooza is a free outdoor event featuring skating, entertainment, food truck, character visits and more. There will be a meet-and-greet with the Ice Queen and Ice Princess, figure skating performances by Center Ice of DuPage and a hockey game between the Wheaton police and fire departments. For more information, visit: https://wheatonparkdistrict.com/events/ice-a-palooza.

Saturday, Feb. 3 and Sunday, Feb. 4 Chocolate weekend - Lisle From 9 a.m.-4 p.m. each day at the Morton Arboretum, 4100 Route 53, celebrate the beloved cacao tree, which offers the many delights of chocolate, while sampling and shopping for an array of treats from chocolate vendors. Timed-entry admission must be reserved online in advance. For more information, visit mortonarb.org.

Sunday, Feb. 4 Victorian Valentine’s Workshop Elmhurst From 11 a.m.-2 p.m. at the Elmhurst History Museum, 120 E. Park Ave., create a Valentine just in time for the holiday. All materials will be provided. At 11:30 a.m. and 12:30 p.m., learn about the origin of Valentine’s cards and the popular Vinegar Valentine’s, the not-so-sweet sister to traditional cards. All ages welcome. Admission: $4 per Winter Wine Walk person. For more information, visit: www.elmhursthistoWheaton From 2-5:30 p.m. in downtown Wheaton, enjoy 12 ry.org/event/victorian-valentine’s-workshop/216. one-ounce wine tastes at participating businesses. Shop Bridal Extravaganza - Wheaton your favorite stores and get a sneak peek at the hottest From 1-4 p.m. at Arrowhead Golf Club, 26W151 Butspring trends. In addition to tastings, your souvenir wine glass is yours to keep. Make it an early Valentine’s Day terfield Road, view stunning decor options and mingle date or gather your friends for a day out on the town. with a variety of recommended wedding professionals.

Event check-in and materials pick-up begins at 1 p.m. There will be menu glancing, hors d’oeuvre sampling, All attendees must bring their driver’s license or state ID wedding planning and wine tasting. Ticket prices: $15 if to be age verified at check-in. Price: $40 per ticket. For purchased before the event; $20 the day of the event. For more information, visit: https://www.tickettailor.com/ more information, visit: https://arrowheadgolfclub.org/ weddings-social-events. events/dwa/811311/r/website.

PUZZLE Page 18 • Thursday, Jan. 25, 2024 - The Elmhurst Independent

ANTISKID BALANCE BARS BATH BENCHES ELDERLY FALLS HANDHELD HOT INSTALLATION LIGHTING MATS MOISTURE RAILS REACH RETROFIT SAFETY SEAT SENIORS SHOWER SLIP SUCTION CUPS TOILETRIES TRANSFER

SUDOKU

Fun by the Numbers Like puzzles? Then you’ll love sudoku. This mind-bending puzzle will have you hooked from the moment you square off, so sharpen your pencil and put your sudoku savvy to the test! Here’s How It Works: Sudoku puzzles are formatted as a 9x9 grid, broken down into nine 3x3 boxes. To solve a sudoku, the numbers 1 through 9 must fill each row, column and box. Each number can appear only once in each row, column and box. You can figure out the order in which the numbers will appear by using the numeric clues already provided in the boxes. The more numbers you name, the easier it gets to solve the puzzle!

CLUES ACROSS 1. Winged nut 7. __ Humbug!

10. One who sets apart 12. Circle above a saint’s head 13. Unpleasantly loud and harsh 14. Expressed pleasure 15. Feminine given name 16. Company of badgers 17. Popular Dodge pickup truck 18. Witty sayings 19. Leader 21. Autonomic nervous system 22. Premolar 27. Atomic #28 28. Holiday decorative item 33. Exclamation of surprise 34. Rusk or cracker 36. Returned material authorization (abbr.)

37. Scottish or Irish Gaelic language 38. Eat 39. Marxist economics theory (abbr.)

40. Ceases to exist 41. Male Arabic name 44. Series of ridges on an organ wall 45. Places where bees are kept 48. One-time Yankees sensation Kevin 49. Church office 50. Single lens reflex 51. Pieces of fibrous tissue CLUES DOWN 1. Classify 2. Dismounted 3. Produced 4. Consumed 5. Director Howard 6. The products of human creativity 7. Thai monetary units 8. Away from wind

9. Builder’s trough 10. Relating to Islam 11. It can sometimes ache 12. Small quantities (Scot.)

14. Poisonous plant 17. Laugh at 18. Vogul 20. C. European river 23. Type of cat 24. Exclamation of disgust 25. Stephen King novel 26. Without armies 29. Expression of sympathy 30. Relative biological

effectiveness (abbr.)

31. Previously 32. Illegal drug 35. Kiloelectronvolt 36. Large, flightless birds 38. For smoking 40. Binary 41. Competition 42. Mark resembling an arrow 43. Containers 44. Root mean square (abbr.)

45. Commercials 46. I.M.__, architect 47. 007’s creator Answers on page 21

The Elmhurst Independent - Thursday, Jan. 25, 2024 • 19

Endeavor Health advances personalized medicine Partnering with GenomicMD, now offering Polygenic Risk Score

Endeavor Health is among the first healthcare providers in the nation to offer groundbreaking clinical grade Polygenic Risk Score (PRS) testing for a broad range of conditions.

Endeavor Health is partnering with GenomicMD, a CLIA-certified laboratory dedicated to personalizing healthcare through precision medicine and to providing patients and their physicians with assessment of lifetime genomic risk for cardiovascular, cardiometabolic disease, neurologic, oncologic, urologic and other common diseases.

PRS testing generates a personalized genetic risk assessment for complex conditions based on the combined impact of many genetic variants that alone have a minimal effect. “Knowing one’s PRS scores can help patients and their physicians take proactive steps to ensure early detection or avoid disease altogether through informed lifestyle changes, disease screening and prevention,” said Jianfeng Xu, DrPH, Endeavor Health vice president of Translational Research, who is the lead scientist collaborating with GenomicMD on this program.

“Self-reported family history alone provides an incomplete assessment of a patient’s inherited risk. Our research indicates that PRS can identify considerably more individuals at increased risk

for disease when compared to family history or rare pathogenic mutations alone. This is a major advancement in the field of genomics and a powerful new tool to improve patient care,” he added.

Endeavor Health primary care physicians and specialists will develop care paths for patients who may benefit from this testing and incorporate results into personalized patient management. Initially, PRS testing will be available at select Endeavor Health Medical Group offices, with plans to expand across the system.

Endeavor Health’s Genomic Health Initiative (GHI), one of the nation’s largest genetic biorepositories, will support the collaboration through the addition of more PRS panels. It is important to broaden the utility of PRS to underrepresented ethnicities, some of whom may be at higher risk for heart disease, cancer and other conditions.

“Our clinical grade, validated PRS panels will provide physicians and their patients with objective, accurate and potentially actionable risk assessments to consider earlier screening and diagnostic testing as well as further motivation for lifestyle changes,” said Jason Lobel, CEO and co-founder, GenomicMD. “Dr. Xu and Endeavor Health have spent more than a decade studying the clinical utility of PRS. Endeavor Health research indicates

that PRS can identify two to four times more individuals at increased risk for disease when compared to family history alone. We will continue to utilize the latest scientific evidence to expand disease coverage as we elevate genomic testing’s role in risk stratification for every interested individual,” he added.

Since 2014, Endeavor Health has

been at the forefront of genetic testing with Advanced Primary Care– one of the nation’s largest clinical genomics programs integrated into primary care. To date, more than 50,000 patients have participated in the program to identify genetic risk factors for common disorders, resulting in early diagnosis, prevention strategies, and personalized

Elmhurst

Independent

Elmhurst’s Locally Owned and Operated Hometown Newspaper

treatment options to ensure optimal health for individual patients and their family members.

For more information and to determine eligibility for PRS testing, call 847-570-GENE. PRS testing is not currently covered by insurance companies. The out-of-pocket cost for a Lifetime Genomics Risk Assessment panel is $250.

Receive a FREE eSubscription of The Independent!

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Receive a free Winter fun at eSubscription of DuPage forest your hometown preserves available newspaper call 630-850-8110 for snowshoe availability.

For fans of cross-country skiing, rangers groom more than 50 miles of trails at forest preserves including Blackwell in Warrenville, Fullersburg Woods in Oak Brook, Danada and Herrick Lake in Wheaton, Greene Valley and Springbrook Prairie in Naperville, Mallard Lake in Hanover Park, Meacham Grove in Bloomingdale, and Waterfall Glen in Darien. Visitors who aren’t classic skiers should use the inside of the trails to avoid damaging the set tracks.

Ice fishing, ice skating and sledding are allowed at most forest preserves except Spring Creek Reservoir in Bloomingdale and Herrick Lake in Wheaton. Additionally, sledding is not allowed at Mount Hoy at Blackwell or the closed landfill sites at Greene Valley and Mallard Lake.

For information, call 630-9337200 or visit dupageforest.org, where you can also link to the district’s e-newsletter and Facebook; X, formerly known as Twitter; Instagram; YouTube; and TikTok pages.

For a free weekly eSubscription emailed to any Elmhurst resident or business, sign up at: rockvalleyenews.com For a free print subscription delivered to any Elmhurst residence or business, sign up at: rockvalleydigital.com

The Elmhurst Independent Your Locally Owned and Operated Hometown Newspaper Published by

Rock Valley Publishing 240 N. West Ave., Elmhurst, IL 60126 Phone: 630.834.8244

397008

Embrace winter with a flurry of outdoor fun in the DuPage forest preserves, which offer residents plenty of reasons to get outside and play this season.

When there’s plenty of packed snow on the hill (usually more than 3 inches), thrill-seekers can snow tube down the 800-foot run on Mount Hoy at Blackwell Forest Preserve in Warrenville.

If conditions allow, the hill is open 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on weekends through Feb. 25. Only district inner tubes are allowed. Rentals, which are at the base of the hill, are $10 per tube per day and end at 3:30 p.m.

Visitors can also explore Blackwell and Fullersburg Woods forest preserves by snowshoe. When there’s plenty of snow on the trails, snowshoe rentals are available at the Blackwell tubing hill (when open) 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Snowshoes can also be rented at the Fullersburg Woods Nature Education Center Monday through Saturday 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. All rentals are $10 per day. For Fullersburg Woods,

20 • Thursday, Jan. 25, 2024 - The Elmhurst Independent

Serving Addison, Bensenville, Elmhurst, Lombard & Villa Park

Classifieds Elmhurst Office (630) 834-8244

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FOR SALE Announcements

Burial Needs

CLASSIFIED IN-COLUMN ADS cannot be credited or refunded after the ad has been placed.

Ads canceled before deadline will be removed from the paper as a service to our customers, but no credit or refund will be issued to your account.

7 CEMETERY PLOTS Willing to sell as a group or individually. Located at Roselawn Memory Gardens 3045 WI-67, Lake Geneva, WI 53147. This is a private sale.

Contact Randy, the seller at randy@slpublishers.com.

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.

Misc. For Sale 32 FT ALUMINUM LADDER, like new, $150 and a ARIENS SNOW BLOWER, 5 hp, BRIGGS & STRATTON, 4 speed, reverse, $150. Call anytime for more info.

630-853-3059.

CALL Elmhurst (630) 834-8244 or Lombard (630) 627-7010 TO PLACE YOUR CLASSIFIED AD!

247158

CALL Elmhurst (630) 834-8244 or Lombard (630) 627-7010 TO PLACE YOUR CLASSIFIED AD!

Painting 388922

Residential driveways, patios, walkways.

Stamped and colored concrete.

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

Say this prayer for three consecutive days and then you must publish and it will be granted to you.

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

JC

349866

379666

The Elmhurst Independent - Thursday, Jan. 25, 2024 • 21

Illinois proposal calls for expanding vote-by-mail

State representative proposes measure that would allow all-mail elections in some areas

By Peter Hancock

CAPITOL NEWS ILLINOIS

As the 2024 election season draws near, voters in Illinois will once again choose whether they want to cast their ballots in person or by mail.

But one lawmaker is proposing a bill in the Illinois House that could make that decision a lot easier, making voting by mail the default option for people in counties and cities that choose to go that route.

State Rep. Carol Ammons, D-Urbana, said voting by mail has been shown to be a more convenient and

efficient way of running elections.

“Vote-by-mail has been proven by way of court order, as well as people’s utilization of vote-by-mail—I vote by mail—that it has been safe,” she said during an interview. “There have been no problems. I have not missed a single election. And people who use it increase their voter participation.”

Voting by mail, often referred to as absentee voting, was originally intended for people who planned to be away from home on Election Day, particularly military personnel, as

well as college students and people whose jobs required them to travel.

That often required voters to ask their state or local election official for an absentee ballot and, in some cases, explain why they wanted to vote by mail.

In more recent years, Illinois and other states have made voting by mail an option for anyone by adopting “no-excuse” absentee voting laws, meaning anyone could request a mail ballot without giving a reason.

Illinois also gives voters the option of asking to be placed on a perma-

As recreational cannabis sales again hit record, Illinois AG calls for federal rescheduling CAPITOL NEWS ILLINOIS

As Illinois’ recreational cannabis industry once again reported record sales for 2023, the state’s attorney general is calling on the federal government to reclassify the substance.

The U.S. Drug Enforcement Agency classifies cannabis as a Schedule 1 drug, meaning the federal government believes it has “no currently accepted medical use and a high potential for abuse.”

But Attorney General Kwame Raoul and his counterparts in 11 other states are calling on a reclassification to Schedule 3, meaning it has “a moderate to low potential for physical and psychological dependence.”

Raoul and the other attorneys general said the reclassification would allow states to continue to “set the standard” for legal products, would allow businesses to take ordinary tax

deductions, and would increase the ability to research the substance to fully determine its effects.

“Illinois is one of several states that have established robust regulatory frameworks for legal cannabis sales,” Raoul said in a news release.

“State-regulated cannabis industries protect consumers from the dangers of unregulated products and the illicit market. Rescheduling cannabis will remove obstacles for legitimate businesses and allow them to better collaborate with law enforcement and regulators.”

Last year, Illinois recreational cannabis dispensaries sold a record $1.6 billion of product, accompanied by a record number of sales to Illinois residents.

Sales to out-of-state residents, however, fell by $71 million from 2022’s total, marking the first drop

in that category since cannabis was legalized on a recreational basis in January 2020.

The growth in 2023 marked a 5 percent increase from the year prior, meaning the pace of the industry’s growth is slowing. From its first year of legalization to its second, sales grew by 106 percent, while in 2022, growth was marked at 12 percent from the year prior.

Lawmakers introduce bill to create state prescription drug price oversight board A new bill in the Illinois General Assembly would create a board of health care experts that would have the authority to set price limits on prescription medications.

House Bill 4472 was introduced

See RESCHEDULING, Page 23

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nent vote-by-mail list so they can automatically receive a mail-in ballot without having to fill out a new request for one each election cycle.

And in 2020, amid the COVID-19 pandemic, the General Assembly passed a law requiring local election officials automatically send vote-bymail applications to every voter in their jurisdiction, instead of requiring voters to ask for one.

During a special meeting of the House Ethics and Elections Committee held recently in her hometown of Urbana, Ammons said voting by mail has become increasingly popular.

But she said the multi-step process of voting by mail is still inefficient because it requires voters to fill out and send in a vote-by-mail application to receive a ballot.

“But when we went back to look at the utilization of the ballots, the number that came back, and the cost associated with mailing a ballot, we realized as we talked to other jurisdictions that you would actually save the money if you simply mailed them the ballot,” she said.

Ammons is the sponsor of House Bill 4198, which would allow county clerks and other local election authorities to make voting by mail the default option in their jurisdiction. It would give them the option of mailing ballots to all registered voters in their jurisdiction, without requiring voters to ask for one. But it would still require local election authorities to offer in-person voting as well for those who prefer to cast their ballot in person.

Currently, eight states and Washington, D.C., operate elections almost entirely by mail. William Cavecche, an election administrator in King County, Washington, which includes the city of Seattle, said that state passed a similar law in 2005 and immediately, two-thirds of the counties in the state shifted to voteby-mail systems.

“Speaking to someone who has run both polling-place elections and vote-by-mail elections, I can tell you from experience that vote by mail elections are significantly easier to administer,” he said.

Among other benefits, Cavecche said, in a vote-by-mail election, there is no need to worry about problems that commonly occur at in-person polling places such as running out of ballots, voting machines breaking down or poll workers failing to show up.

He also said vote-by-mail elections are more secure because all ballots can be counted in a centralized location. He said ballot counting can also be livestreamed on the internet to provide more public transparency.

The meeting was a subject matter hearing, meaning the committee only heard testimony and did not take action on the bill. But Rep. Maurice West, D-Rockford, who chairs the panel, said he intends to hold additional hearings during the legislative session, which began Jan. 16, and it’s possible lawmakers could vote on the measure in time to take effect for the 2024 general election in November.

LEGAL NOTICES PUBLIC NOTICE SECURITY AGREEMENT Number SA-90719830678KAG This Security Agreement is made and entered into this 23 day of October 2023 by and between KENNETH ALBERTO GUTIERREZ, DEBTOR, hereinafter “DEBTOR,” and the Kenneth Alberto Gutierrez, Secured Party, hereinafter “Secured Party.” If any part or portion of this Security Agreement is found to be invalid or unenforceable, such part or portion shall not void any other part or portion as reasonably segregable from said parts) or portion(s). The Parties, hereinafter “Parties,” are identified as DEBTOR KENNETH ALBERTO GUTIERREZ Secured Party Kenneth Alberto Gutierrez Signed, notarized and apostilled on 10/23/2023 (Published in The Elmhurst Independent Jan. 18, 25 & Feb. 1, 2024) 449843 PUBLIC NOTICE HOLD HARMLESS AND INDEMNITY AGREEMENT Number HHA-90719830678KAG This Hold-harmless and Indemnity Agreement is mutually agreed upon and entered in this 23 Day of the 10th. Month of 2023 between the juristic person: “KENNETH ALBERTO GUTIERREZ©” and any and all derivatives and variations in spelling of said name hereinafter jointly and severally “Debtor,” except, “Kenneth Alberto Gutierrez©” the living, breathing, flesh-and-blood man, known by the distinctive appellations Kenneth Alberto Gutierrez ©, hereinafter “Creditor.signed, notarized and apostilled. on 10/23/2023 (Published in The Elmhurst Independent Jan. 18, 25 & Feb. 1, 2024) 449844

PUBLIC NOTICE POWER OF ATTORNEY Number POA-90719830678KAG Know All Men by These Presents: That I, KENNETH ALBERTO GUTIERREZ, the Debtor, corporate entity, and ‘ens legis,’ the undersigned, hereby make, constitute and appoints Kenneth Alberto Gutierrez, herein, the flesh and blood man, a living soul, the Secured Party/Creditor as my true and lawfully Attorney-in-fact for me and in my corporate capacity (LLC), place and stead and for my personal and commercial use and benefit.

Signed, notarized and apostilled on 10/23/2023 (Published in The Elmhurst Independent Jan. 18, 25 & Feb. 1, 2024) 449845

NOTICE CERTIFICATE NO. 79303 was filed in the office of the County Clerk of DuPage County on DECEMBER 27, 2023, wherein the business firm of AH LOCATED AT 255 S. WEST AVE. #303, ELMHURST, IL 60126 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: NAME OF PERSON(S) SHARON TYLER, HOME ADDRESS 255 S. WEST AVE #303, ELMHURST, IL 60126.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand and Official Seal at my office in Wheaton, Illinois, this 27TH day of DECEMBER, A.D. 2023.

JEAN KACZMAREK Jean Kaczmarek DuPage County Clerk (OFFICIAL SEAL) (Published in The Elmhurst Independent Jan. 11, 18 & 25, 2024) 449515

22 • Thursday, Jan. 25, 2024 - The Elmhurst Independent

The Elmhurst Independent

Sports Jan. 25, 2024 • 22

IC Catholic Prep boys basketball competitive in trio of recent games Gallagher fires up pair of 20-point performances against St. Laurence and Chicago Hope

By Mike Miazga CORRESPONDENT

While the IC Catholic Prep boys basketball team doesn’t have much to show for it, coach TJ Tyrrell was pleased with how the Knights competed in a trio of games against St. Francis, St. Laurence and Chicago Hope Academy.

The Knights lost 39-37 to Wheaton St. Francis in a game where Jake Gallagher had 13 points and Matthew Karsten added 12 points. Andrew Hill finished with eight points. “We were leading pretty late until the fourth quarter,” Tyrrell said of the St. Francis contest. “We had a very strong first half.”

ICCP led 13-6 after the first quarter, 23-16 at halftime and took a 29-27 lead into the fourth quarter. “We had a really good back-and-forth fourth quarter,” Tyrrell said. “St. Francis ended

up getting possession with about 30 seconds left. We did a really good job defensively and forced them to call a timeout. Jake (Gallagher) did a really nice job on a shot attempt that was well contested. They missed and had a player crash in and tip it in for a put-back as time expired. It was a heartbreaker. We battled and were very focused throughout the game. We still felt pretty encouraged. We showed we could play at that level. St. Francis is having a good year.”

The Knights also dropped a 67-52 contest to St. Laurence out of Burbank.

Gallagher had 20 points, while Hill had 16 points in the divisional road defeat. Karsten added eight points, while Aidan Johnson had four assists.

ICCP led 15-12 after the first quarter, while St. Laurence took a 33-22 into halftime. “St. Laurence had a big

York boys basketball team defeats Oswego East at Batavia Night of Hoops Levine surpasses 1,000-point mark for career

By Mike Miazga CORRESPONDENT

After a tough conference loss, the York boys basketball team picked itself up and recorded a 57-51 non-conference win over Oswego East at the Batavia Night of Hoops shootout. AJ Levine led York with 24 points, while Kyle Waltz had 11 points. Brendan Molis had 10 points.

The Dukes made 115 defensive plays led by Levine with 28. “It was a great bounce-back win after a disappointing game on Friday,” York coach Mike Dunn said. York trailed by two points late and went on an 8-0 run to close out the game.

Earlier, the Dukes dropped a 49-25 West Suburban Conference Silver Division game to Downers Grove North. Sophomore Hunter Stepanich led the Dukes with five points. York made 89 defensive plays led by Levine with 18. “It was a tough night,” Dunn said. “Give all the credit to Downers Grove North. They outplayed us in all aspects of the game.” Of note, Levine went over the 1,000-point mark for his career in the Oswego East game at Batavia.

York was at 17-4 overall and 6-1 in WSC Silver action through late last week. The Dukes have a busy week this week with non-conference games against Glenbard North and Lake Zurich (Saturday) and a WSC Silver matchup at home Friday against Hinsdale Central. York won the previous meeting 50-43 at Hinsdale Central.

second quarter and we dug ourselves a hole,” Tyrrell said. “I was extremely pleased with our effort. I told the guys after the game that the outcome was discouraging and not what we wanted, but man did we battle and played a very talented St. Laurence team quarter to quarter. I was very proud of the guys and very encouraged by some of the offensive execution that was better than it has been in the past. We are seeing things progress in a good way for us. We felt pretty good.”

In a 63-53 loss to Class 1A stateranked Chicago Hope Academy, Gallagher had 20 points, while Hill again had 16 points. “Hope Academy is ranked in Class 1A and played a very aggressive, trapping defense that led to early turnovers,” Tyrrell said. “I thought we had a lot of great opportunities and good looks at the basket that just didn’t convert.” The Hope game was part of ICCP’s annual Coaches

“

I told the guys after the game that the outcome was discouraging and not what we wanted, but man did we battle and played a very talented St. Laurence team quarter to quarter.”

– TJ Tyrell, IC Catholic Prep coach

vs. Cancer event. “It was well-attended and there was good energy in the crowd,” Tyrrell said.

The Knights were 12-10 overall and 1-3 in Chicago Catholic League White Division action to start the week. “The

three games didn’t end the way we wanted,” Tyrrell said. “Our effort is at a very high level. I am an effort guy and it’s something that we praise as a program. When guys give their best effort, you can’t ask for much more as a coach. It’s discouraging to drop three in a row here, but the season and schedule is a grind that we knew it would be. The idea is to get better and stronger heading into the state series.

We’re still finding a lot of good to take away. There are still areas to improve, but the team is dialed in and focused.”

The Knights have a CCL crossover game this week against St. Ignatius and a CCL White Division game against Aurora Central Catholic Friday. Loyola Academy and Chicago DePaul College Prep await after that.

“Loyola and DePaul are both top 25 in the state and catholic league powers,” Tyrrell said. “These are two more tests for us.”

IC Catholic Prep girls basketball team defeats Timothy and St. Laurence Geiger scores 20 in GCAC White road win in Burbank

By Mike Miazga CORRESPONDENT

The IC Catholic Prep girls basketball team wrapped up a busy week with a pair of wins against Timothy Christian and St. Laurence. ICCP downed neighbor Timothy Christian 47-14 in a game that was part of ICCP’s annual Coaches vs. Cancer event. The Knights led 15-3 after the first quarter and 29-5 at halftime.

Graziella Narcisi and Mary Kate Hilgart each scored 12 points to lead the Knights. Allie Geiger added eight points. “We played really good defense,” Knights coach Todd Fisher said. “Going back to what we were doing the previous week, we had some patient possessions on offense and a lot of great, open shots. It was a good game for us.”

ICCP recorded victories at all girls basketball levels during the Coaches vs. Cancer day-long initiative. “It’s an important event,” Fisher said. “Our kids understand the importance of it. It’s a fun at-

mosphere.”

Earlier, the Knights were 52-43 Girls Catholic Athletic Conference White Division winners on the road in Burbank against St. Laurence.

“This was a very good conference win at their place,” Fisher said.

ICCP trailed at the end of the first quarter and was losing 25-21 at halftime. “We had a real nice third quarter to take a two-point lead going into the fourth,” said Fisher, whose team was up 34-32 after three. Geiger scored 20 points, while Maura Grogan had 11 points.

The Knights shot 9-for-11 from the foul line in the fourth quarter.

“Give our kids credit, we hit our free throws in the fourth quarter,” Fisher said. “We were 9-for-11 when it counted. We were playing the clock at the end, and we hit our free throws. In this game, we switched up the defense a little bit.

We went from man to zone and that really helped. We kind of got that it wasn’t working in the first half and switched to zone and found

something good with that defense against a real good team like St. Laurence. We beat a good team and got a really good road conference win.”

The Knights also lost a 66-53 contest to Aurora Central Catholic. ICCP trailed by 12 points at half time, but cut it to four points at 45-41 at one point and trimmed the lead to a basket at one point in the fourth quarter. Geiger had 13 points, while Narcisi had 12 points and Hilgart scored nine points.

The Knights were 18-6 overall and 3-3 in GCAC White Division play through late last week. ICCP plays Southland College Prep at home for senior night this week.

Fisher noted the GCAC tournament seeding meeting was held and pairings will be revealed soon. The tournament features all the teams from both GCAC divisions competing in a regular-season-ending tournament. The tournament will be contested at the freshman, JV and varsity levels.

TheElmhurst ElmhurstIndependent Independent--Thursday, Thursday,July Jan.16, 25,2020 2024••19 23 The

sports

Lawmakers clear pathgraduate for assault weapon registration rules IC Catholic Prep Some members record symbolic objection, saying rules are too vague and complicated Leslie headed to Le Moyne

“

Maiers wins 200 and 500; Glod takes first in IM and fly for York boys swimming Dukes JV team also successful in tri-meet with Benet Academy and Lemont

• Stopka

• Rescheduling

So far, the law has survived legal challenges in both state and federal courts, but the National Association for Gun Rights, which is the major plaintiff in one of the federal lawsuits, has said it plans to file an appeal with the U.S. Supreme Court within the next several weeks.

Rep. Ryan Spain, R-Peoria, who also co-chairs the committee, said he was frustrated by the short timeframe used to adopt the new rules and by the way some issues were handled.

He then offered a motion to prohibit ISP from adopting the rules, arguing that the rules do not meet a requirement in state statute that they be “simple and clear” so that people and groups affected by them can understand them.

That motion failed because it needed eight votes on the 12-member committee but only received six.

Spain then made a motion to “object” to the rules on the same grounds that they were not “simple and clear.”

An objection has little practical effect on the rule, except that it requires the agency to respond to the objection in writing within 90 days before the rule can take effect.

That motion, which only requires a simple majority of members taking part, passed on a 6-5 vote.

That vote allows ISP to move forward by adopting the permanent rules and enforcing them into the future.

But it remains unclear how many assault weapon owners will comply with the law by registering those firearms.

According to data maintained by ISP, just under 30,000 individuals had filed registration forms ahead of the Jan. 1 deadline. Those registrations covered roughly 69,000 firearms that fall under the ban as well as nearly 43,000 accessories.

It is not known what percentage that represents of the total number of assault weapons and banned accessories in circulation in Illinois, but many people have suggested that a large number of gun owners will refuse to comply with the registration requirement.

Cunningham, however, said he was not concerned about speculation of widespread noncompliance with the law.

“I would just repeat what I said earlier, which is the law is in place, and I would encourage people to follow the law,” he said.

Farm-grown pork products now available at Fischer Farm

Fischer Farm is offering farm- and tenderloin and more. Prices vary raised pork products for sale to local by product and weight. Visit the store consumers at its store located inside to see the complete selection or call CHRIS FOX PHOTO Independent for Elmhurst product availabilthe farmhouse located at 16W680 630-834-3152 ity.

Old Grand Ave. Fischer Farm grounds are open Products include ground pork, rib from dawn to dusk daily.

The farmchops, blade Bucolo chops, smoked pork during Anthony fires a pitch a recent U12 baseball shanks, game. smoked pork hocks, ham house and select buildings are open steaks, smoked pork butt, spare ribs from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

U12 baseball action

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them. But to do so legally, they were supposed to register those Obviously, this items with the Illinois State Police New permanent rules will soon before Jan. 1. go into effect spelling out how peois an issue where I feel like I would be so bored withLast fall, ISP published tempople who own assault weapons and Will play volleyball is itahas difference it because been such a big rary “emergency” rules that went related items that are now heavily outthere I’m my life.” on a into effect Oct.really 1, enabling people regulated in Illinois can register partofofopinion for Division II school Leslie said she has plenty of to begin filing online registrations them with the Illinois State Police.

By Mike Miazga excited to able partisan andPrep’s ahead of the Jan.be from basis, IC Catholic 1 deadline. But The legislature’s Joint Commit- memories CORRESPONDENT Nancyyou Kerrigan’s many gun owners, gun rights in advotee on Administrative Rules voted coach I think saw program. that to play volleyball Recent IC Catholic Prep gradu“I loved playing there,” she said. cates, and state lawmakers pushed along party lines Jan. 16 to let the ate Bella Leslie wanted to head east “I probably play out today.” enjoyed school volley- back against the complaining rules go into effect, ending months college.

Itrules, gives me for college.

–Sen. Bill Cunningham, ball more than club because I love that they were too vague in some of negotiations and debate between Her landing spot ended up being something to do.

I staff areas, too complicated in others, supporters of the law and gun rights my team and the coaching D-Chicago atadvocates.

NCAA Division II Le Moyne was very supportive on and off the and generally impossible to comply College where this the is former Knights feel like I would be “Obviously, an issue where court. It made it a really good en- with. volleyball and soccer standout will That law, known as the Protect In response, ISP held additional there is a difference of opinion on a vironment to be in. Coach (Kerriso bored without continue her volleyball at gan) Illinois bansher the public wasCommunities great. I haveAct, known hearings in October and Nopartisan basis, and I thinkcareer you saw he Syracuse, New York school as sale, purchase, manufacture, or posas it workedittohas craft permathat play out today,” Sen. Bill Cun- for a while. When I was little, I did vember it because aningham, libero. D-Chicago, a co-chair of all session of a long of firearms that nent rules. the little kidslist camps, and her “All of the schools I was looking are defined “assault weapons,” was as in my brother’s grade One of the concerns the committee, told reporters after daughter been such a raised big during atthewere on the East Coast,” Leslie atasIC.” well as several types of attach- the discussions focused on how ISP meeting. oldThe therules Independent last week.

“I ments, part toofcollect my life.” magazines Leslie large-capacity said she will miss plen- planned and store inforare the result of an asvisited Le Moyne about IC Catholic “I will mation about the items and certain kinds ofPrep. high-power people regsault weapons banand thatreally stateliked law- ty – Bella Leslie t. It reminded me year of high school how close knit of a communi- istered, and what the agency would ammunition. makers passed last in the wake miss because it wasmass a small school,atand was,”that she said.

“I knewwho everylaw, people al- do with that information if the law of a deadly shooting an ty itUnder n a smaller school you will know a body the school.

It willbefore be weird cancelledoverturned due to the as pandemreadyatowned such items the been is eventually unconIndependence Day parade in Highot more than if I would have going on campus and not knowing “I will probably leave Aug. stitutional. ban took effect are allowed to keep ic. land Parkfaces in 2022. gone to a bigger school. The cam- all the faces. I’ll miss those close 10-11 because it’s a far drive,” pus there is really pretty. It sits on connections with the coaches and she said. “We had Zoom call with a big hill and the scenery around it teachers. It will be weird for the the team recently and they said s great. Everything is pretty close first year or so.” they should have an answer about ogether. They have very nice facilLeslie said pandemic life hasn’t our season in the next 7-10 days. ties. The volleyball program has been overly exciting, though her They talked about three scenarios good workout facilities and a nice club volleyball team has started and what could happen like if we ocker room. I liked how modern it practicing again. “We have been start the season and someone gets was.” practicing two or three times a sick and we have to stop and go.

Leslie plans on studying nursing week,” she said. “We are going to That’s one of the reasons why they at Le Moyne. “They have a good be starting tournaments again. Be- are looking at moving the season to nursing program,” she said. “As far fore that I haven’t been doing any- the spring. Right now the plan is to as what kindMiazga of a nurse I want to thing because seniorwhile

By Mike Grant was third Kamenica won soccer season haveina 1:01.54. season, but we won’t know be, CORRESPONDENT I’m not quite sure yet.” the season breaststroke timenext of 1:06.18, while and the club volleyball were with untila the 7-10 days.”

Leslie played and girls The York volleyball boys swimming teamcancelled. had some We were Piotrowski Yorkare also wonLessupposed towas go second Butatif 1:10.47. all systems a go, soccer at IC Catholic Prep all fourduring individual and relay successes recent the 400qualifiers relay withlie a time 3:27.08 withher Noah to a afew clubnonvolleyball can’tofwait to take skills as years.

She wastriangular a center-midfielder conference meet againstinBenet Academy Choi,Louisville.

Polomsky, Glod and to Maiers in that race.

Grand Rapids and a libero the next level with the on the andKnights Lemont.soccer team. the junior meet,“IYork This summer, we haveInsome tour- varsity Dolphins. feelwas likethird beingina libeLeslie’s volleyball journey In the varsity meet, York took second in planned the 200 over thethe medley with Mastache, naments next relay few at ro2:14.15 you have to Mateo be really quick and started in the fifth grade, theof first medley relay with a time 1:48.27 with Daniel Ruari Santen,that Eamon Hall andwhat Ian Morgan in at. weekends.

They are littleVan tournais typically I am good Teddy Kamenica, Glod and yearGrant, she could play the sportMatthew at IC ments thatlocal event.clubs.

Benjamin Melzer wasgood thirdreaction in the 200 withSteven all of the I have really time,” Piotrowski that playevent. Nothing large andfree with alocal. time ofshe 2:24.96.

Jonesonwon Grade School.swimming She’s been really said. “IThomas like diving the floor Nickvolleyball Maiers won the seventh 200 free with the 200 with aand timesaving of 2:35.33. was ng club since Othera time than of that, I have beenIM trying balls. Mastache It’s a really good 1:54.19. wonwith the 200 IM with timeout of a lot and second the 50 free withwhen a time of make 28.93.a Ian grade, most Glod recently the Chito awork stay ininshape. feeling you save. The Martin Polomsky at 2:13.47.

Morgan woninto the butterfly time of 1:11.44. too. cago2:07.78.

Elite group that practiceswas outsecond I’ve been running a lot, so I got position with fits amy personality, Aiden Reedy took third in the Thomas Zayudis was thethe 100 free with of Scores in Willow Springs and50 free that.with I try aand run every day.”

You second have toinbe loudest one on time High of 24.68.

Glod the butterfly with asaid timeshe is a time of 1:00.49.

Jonathon won the 500 free Montini School in won Lombard.

Leslie scheduled to the court. IHill have a loud personality. of 55.42, Kamenica at 59.21.

York in a12timeYou of 6:24.61.

“I’m reallywhile excited to be was ablethird report to Le Moyne for in the Aug. have to be pretty loud if you Polomsky took in second in theshe 100 15 freetimeframe, with a timebut noted won the 200 relay with a timeIof 1:50.58 York o play volleyball college,” preseason want to be a libero. think I match 53.37, Henry Nelson third at 53.92. to the efforts Jones, Zayudis, Michael said.of“It giveswhile me something to do.wasvolleyball activitiesthanks already have thatofdescription.”

Maiers won the 500 free with a time of 5:07.99.

Pahl and Morgan. Huzaifa Chandabhai won the Jake Lisowski was second at 5:23.09. backstroke in 1:10.62, while Mastache was second York was third (Continued in the 200 relay 1:37.05 at 1:13.42. Dylan Boling finished fifth in the fromin page 18) with Reedy, Piotrowski, Polomsky and Maiers breaststroke with a time of 1:29.26. York won the They lost tothat West Chicago on Buhrfiend huge rah-rah I’mrelay a little bit blewith and transparent and communicate comprising quartet.

Thomas wasperson.400 in 4:08.83 Morgan, Pahl, Hill and I think an own in the last five more an individualZayudis players’atcoach. with everybody.” second in thegoal backstroke with a time of of 1:01.04, the controls. minutes. That was against the state I will pull kids to the side at practice As far as the future, Stopka wants champs in the sectional finals. That’s and games and teach them.”

York competing at a high level on a hell of a season if you ask me.”

Stopka noted York has been doing a consistent basis. “The short-term Stopka will teach Spanish at York. conditioning drillspage and 21) said the plan goal is to restock and build up the (Continued from He taught Spanish and one math class as of earlier last week was to start team,” he said. “A large portion of by “My Rep.philosophy Nabeela is Syed, across the board. of legislators andwas relevant experts to atJan.17 St. Pat’s.

I am summer camp pending District 205 last year’s team seniors, espeD-Palatine, and Sen.coach,” David Koehler, Dr. Anthony Douglas, sur- cially address the price of medications. more of a players’ he said. approval.

“I have probablygeneral been able the starting 11. We have to D-Peoria. gery resident at University of ChicaThesure board be tasked “I have been a big Liverpool soccer to meet 60 to 70 percent of the play- make the would now juniors are upwith to Using ever a variety of information go,sosaid every day the assessing high-cost drugs, supporter since 2015 when Jur- ers far,”hehesees said.patients “If it does get apspeed of the varsity levellike andones are related to came the medication’s who struggle to afford used to to contribute. treat cancer, gen Klopp over and he’s market, known proved that would be thetheir startmedicaof our ready We auto-immune want to keep including thecoach. number of kind people tion—some whom pills that disease, and diabetes, well as othas a players’ He’s of takmy contact days of with four cut daystheir a week pipeline going withasthe younger ing the medication and its out-ofor skip to make theirAnd prescriper drugs might themake state coaching idol. I want to related to the for threedoses weeks straight. even groups of that players.

Weimpact want to pocket cost, the board tions last health care system. players and form bondswould with assess them. though thelonger.

IHSA waived the black- sure we are not only competitive, but price. cannot effectively careyear, for we pa- thatThe members may receive Iitsam more light-hearted and smil- out“Idates before the school weboard are competing for regionfinds to joke be unreatients if theyadvantage cannot afford the thercompensation from a special fund ing.IfI the likeboard to have fun itand with won’t take of that.

I’m als, sectionals and supersectionals. sonable, it could the amount pretty apies sure necessary to keep through anthis annual on the kids. The goal limit is understanding families have them plans well,” to do Itcreated starts for me with juniortax class wholesalers, pharmacies hospi- things Douglas said school at a Statehouse prescription drug manufacturers. where each player can be and successful before starts. I’mnews the that is coming in. We want them talsthe canprovide bill insurers and consumers conference introduce the bill.

Thetobill yet been assigned and the best way possible new guy andto I’m not going to say ready gohad andnot setting the standard forconvey the drug. five-person board would be to committee as of Jan. 17, although to the knowledge they need youThe can’t go with your family. Go for these other classes that come in Theposition bill’s they sponsors it was appointed by the governor and work House Speaker Emanuel right “Chris” at the play. Isaid am not big do it and enjoy it. This is a crazy and so they can also contribute off effort attothe limit health costs with atime. bipartisan 15-member council Welch signed on as a cosponsor. atanyelling group, and care I’m not a goofy You have to be accessi- the bat.”

By Peter Hancock

CAPITOL NEWS ILLINOIS

proudly presents proudly presents

YORK HIGH SCHOOL PLAYER OF THE WEEK YORK HIGH SCHOOL PLAYER OF THE WEEK AJ LEVINE GIGI BARR YORK BOYS BASKETBALL YORK VOLLEYBALL Levine scored 24GIRLS points to help the York boys basketball team a 67-61ofwin Oswego East the Barr wasscore the recipient the over 2019-2020 York ValatCothern Batavia Night of Hoops event.

The win pushed York junior female athlete of the year award. Barr went over the to 17-4 overall.

Levine also went the 1,000-point 1,000-career kill threshold last fall forover the Dukes girls volleymark for his career. ball team and still has a season to add to that total.

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24 • Thursday, Jan. 25, 2024 - The Elmhurst Independent

The Elmhurst Independent - Thursday, Jan. 25, 2024 • 25

EMH Foundation Chef Fest returns to Drury Lane on Feb. 1 The Elmhurst Memorial Hospital Foundation’s annual Chef Fest will be held Thursday, Feb. 1 beginning at 6 p.m. at the Drury Lane Theatre & Conference Center, 100 Drury Ln. in Oakbrook Terrace.

The event includes a variety of signature menu items produced by chefs from prominent local restaurants, bakeries and caterers, who donate their time and talent.

Chef Fest 2024 participants include: • Anyway’s Pub • Brook’s Kitchen & Tap • Café Liberty • COA at the Drake Oak Brook • Dak Dak Korean Wings • Devon Seafood + Steak • Francesca’s Amici • Gatto’s Italian Restaurant and Bar • Gibsons Bar & Steakhouse Oak Brook • Golden Boy Barbecue • J. Alexander’s • Jarosch Bakery

• LaBarra Ristorante • Labriola Bakery & Cafe • Lezza Spumoni & Desserts • Lucille Restaurant at Drury Lane • The Outpost Mexican Eatery • Redstone American Grill • Stan’s Donuts & Coffee • Starbucks at Elmhurst Hospital • The Table at Crate • Tannins Wine bar • Wildflower Café at Elmhurst Hospital And more to come…

Tickets are $150 per person (open bar included).

Tables of ten can be purchased.

Sponsorship opportunities are available.

To purchase tickets and for more information, visit emhfoundation. org/events or call the EMH Foundation at (331) 221-0388.

Proceeds from Chef Fest support future service enhancements to ensure Elmhurst Hospital maintains its commitment to delivering state-ofthe-art healthcare to the community.

SUBMITTED PHOTO Elmhurst Independent

Guests line up for the goodies on display at a past Elmhurst Memorial Hospital Foundation Chef Fest. A popular event, every year ticketholders can walk around and sample a variety of signature menu items produced by chefs from prominent local restaurants, bakeries and caterers, who donate their time and talent. You’re always welcome to go back for more. This year’s event will feature more than 20 participants and is set for Thursday, Feb. 1, beginning at 6 p.m. at the Drury Lane Conference Center in Oakbrook Terrace. For tickets, visit emhfoundation.org/events or call (331) 221-0388. Proceeds benefit the hospital.

Athlete of the Month Analisa Raffaelli ICCP would like to recognize Senior student Analisa Raffaelli as our Athlete of the Month! Analisa is a year-round athlete active in tennis, basketball as well as softball. Analisa is a fantastic basketball player who averages 8.2 points, 3.2 rebounds, 2.3 assists and 1.4 steals per game. She was part of an All-Tournament team at the Grant High School Holiday Tournament. During one notable game she scored 19 points against Rockford Guilford High School. She was also AllTournament at Lisle Cage Classic Tournament where she had a game of 17 points (five 3-pointers) against Lisle High School. Analisa will be attending Colgate University in the fall to pursue her softball career.

Congratulations Analisa!

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26 • Thursday, Jan. 25, 2024 - The Elmhurst Independent

The Elmhurst Independent - Thursday, Jan. 25, 2024 • 27

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28 • Thursday, Jan. 25, 2024 - The Elmhurst Independent

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Honoring the life of your loved one means you value the relationship you shared. We look forward to helping you decide how to celebrate that bond, and honor the unique individual you’ve lost. We can make suggestions to enhance your tribute ideas. Together we will create a fitting and memorable event. Contact us today to discuss the possibilities.

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