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1 • Thursday, Dec. 16, 2021 - The Elmhurst Independent

This is your reminde r...Don’t forget to order your holiday de sserts from Lezza!

Pick up your holiday fav orites by 3pm Friday, Dec. 24th Closed Christmas Da y and New Year ’s Day

544 S. Spring Rd., Elm hurst • 630-530-0630 www.Lezza.com

Elmhurst’s Locally Owned and Operated Hometown Newspaper

VOL. 19 • NO. 52

WWW.THEINDEPENDENTNEWSPAPERS.COM

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Independent Elmhurst

TAKE ONE

THURSDAY, DEC. 16, 2021

BMO Harris Bank in Elmhurst closes Company to close nine branches in Chicago area

FOR THE ELMHURST INDEPENDENT

According to a story in the Chicago Tribune, BMO Harris Bank has announced that it is closing nine of its 182 branches in the Chicago area in early December.

According to the article, it will reduce the bank’s footprint by 5 percent in what is its largest market in the U.S. No information about the action was available at the BMO Harris Bank web site.

Those set to close include the branch in Elmhurst, the BMO Harris announced Monday, Dec. 6, according to the Tribune. Other locations set to close are in South Holland, Aurora, Flossmoor, Summit, Naperville and Barrington, as well as two Chicago branches, one in Logan Square and the other in Wicker Park.

“Our customers are changing how they want to conduct their banking with us, and we continually assess the performance of all of our operations, including our branches, to ensure we are best positioned to meet our customers’ evolving needs,” BMO spokesman Patrick O’Herlihy said in a statement released to the Tribune.

O’Herlihy indicated that the bank also plans to close six other locations outside of the state of Illinois, also in early December. The company has more than 500 branches in Illinois, Indiana, Arizona, Missouri, Minnesota, Kansas, Florida and Wisconsin.

“

Our customers are changing how they want to conduct their banking with us, and we continually assess the performance of all of our operations, including our branches, to ensure we are best positioned to meet our customers’ evolving needs.”

–Patrick O’Herlihy

Bank of Montreal, now known as BMO Financial Group, acquired Chicago-based Harris Bank in 1984.

According to the Tribune’s report, Chicago is the largest U.S. market for the Canadian banking giant, with more than a third of its U.S. branches in Chicago and the suburbs.

The story further pointed out that dozens of employees work at the nine Chicago-area BMO branches that are closing, but O’Herlihy said they are going to assist them with employment transition.

“We are committed to redeploying the majority of impacted employees and will be working actively to do so over the coming weeks and months,” O’Herlihy said. “In cases where this is not possible, we provide appropriate notice and severance to assist in employment transition.”

DEE LONGFELLOW PHOTO Elmhurst Independent

Smiles for Santa

These two little ones had big smiles as they met Santa Claus at the Spring Road Business Association’s annual Sleigh Rides and Ice Sculptures event. See inside for more photos and a story about the missing ice sculptures.

Inside:

Happy Holidays Elmhurst!

Police Reports...........6 Sports ��������������� 16-17 Viewpoint.................8 Classifieds..............15 Est. 1993

‘TAKE THE PLEDGE!’

Community Bank of Elmhurst member FDIC

Pledge may be made via Facebook, Instagram, emailed (respectelmhurst@gmail.com) or mailed to RESPECT Elmhurst, 242 N. York Unit 330, Elmhurst, IL 60126

409149

By Dee Longfellow

Postal Customer **ecrwss

2 • Thursday, Dec. 16, 2021 - The Elmhurst Independent

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The Elmhurst Independent - Thursday, Dec. 16, 2021 • 3

DEE LONGFELLOW PHOTO Elmhurst Independent

Let’s Go For A Sleigh Ride

Warm Hearts Local & Nationwide Delivery

Residents of all ages climbed aboard the horse-drawn sleigh on Spring Road to celebrate the holiday season. In addition to the sleigh rides, there was hot chocolate, cookies and a special appearance by Santa Claus himself! More photos elsewhere in this issue.

Correction Last week in its coverage of the Elmhurst University Founder’s Day activities, the Elmhurst Independent erroneously reported that the goal for its newest fundraising campaign was $100 million and

that $80 million or 80% of the goal had already been raised. The campaign is in fact for $50 million and 80% of that goal, or $40 million, has already been secured. The Independent apologizes for the error.

#T1153

Call or Shop Online

(630) 719-5200

PhillipsFlowers.com 408598

Community Bank of Elmhurst Est. 1993

Member FDIC

CBE Presents: ‘HOLI-DAZE’ 25!

Community Bank of Elmhurst will launch a new holiday tradition this year with 25 ‘Holi-Daze’ window displays at our Elmhurst City Centre location at 133 N. York Street. On each of the first 25 days of December, a new window display item will be revealed with a corresponding local charity. Each day’s revealed item will be posted in a short video on Facebook. For every ‘share’ of the day’s post, CBE will donate $1 to the corresponding charity, up to $100 maximum per charity.

Please like or follow Community Bank of Elmhurst on Facebook in order to see each day’s reveal and share the posts to maximize each charity’s donation.

And check out the display in person by visiting Elmhurst’s City Centre!

(630)782-1234 - www.communityelmhurst.com

408605

330 W. Butterfield - 133 N. York

4 • Thursday, Dec. 16, 2021 - The Elmhurst Independent

Obituary

The elmhursT IndependenT Your Hometown Newspaper Locally owned and operated 240 N. West Avenue Elmhurst, IL. 60126 Main Phone 630.834-8244 Fax 630.834-0900 Visit us at: TheElmhurstIndependent.com The Elmhurst Independent USPS#022-607 is published every Thursday by Rock Valley Publishing, LLC, 240 N. West Avenue, Elmhurst, IL. 60126.

Periodical Postage Paid at Elmhurst, IL.

Display Advertising: 630.834-8355 Classified Advertising: 630.834-8244 News: 630.834-8244 General Information: 630.834-8244

SUBMITTED PHOTO Elmhurst Independent

U11 Extreme help police with Toys for Tots

E-mail: Advertising Department: ads1@rvpublishing.com News Department: Independent@rvpublishing.com Classified Department: Classifieds@rvpublishing.com

Administration: Dee Longfellow News Coordinator

The Elmhurst 11U (2022) Extreme Travel Team wrapped up an amazing 2021 season by winning their fall championship in October. Since then, the boys learned about Roberto Clemente and how he helped others off the field. The team joined the Elmhurst Police to make their 2021 Toys for Tots collection a success, contributing more than 20 gifts in the spirit of Roberto Clemente. Players include: Patrick Boeh, Xander Escarpita, Reid Gabuzda, Luke Osbolt, Nate Patterson, Joey Pointon, Ryan Putz, Dominic Ramos, John Siok, Tanner Telford and Ali Zainulabideen.

Broadway composer visits York drama students On Monday, Dec. 6, York Drama students participated in a concert with renowned Broadway composer Drew Gasparini. The sold-out concert took place at the Elmhurst Art Museum where Gasparini performed songs from his recently released album We Aren’t Kids Any-

Debra Hamilton Advertising Director Pete Cruger Publisher

Advertising: Brenda Garcia

Subscriptions:

The Elmhurst Independent is mailed at no charge by request to residents in the 60126 zip code area.

Out-of-area mail subscriptions are $29.95 yearly. Single copies are also available at more than 80 newsstand locations in Elmhurst.

For home delivery information call 630.834-8244.

Reprints:

Content appearing in the Elmhurst Independent may not be reprinted without permission of the publisher or editor. Requests should be directed to Independent@rvpublishing.com or 630.834-8244.

Postmaster: Please send address changes to: THE ELMHURST INDEPENDENT 240 N. West Avenue, Elmhurst, IL. 60126 SUBMITTED PHOTO Elmhurst Independent

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Monday-Friday 11am-3pm

Pictured here is Broadway composer Drew Gasparini, who joined York Drama students to perform a concert on Monday, Dec. 6. Gasparini performed songs from his recently released album We Aren’t Kids Anymore and accompanied students in their performances of his music.

more and accompanied students in their performances of his music.

Gasparini first visited Elmhurst in 2015 to work with York Drama and appreciated the chance to work with this new group of performers. One of the largest names in contemporary musical theatre, he is currently developing several new stage musicals including the Broadway-bound musical adaptation of The Karate Kid, It’s Kind of a Funny Story and Night Shift. His new autobiographical song cycle, We Aren’t Kids Anymore, is published through Concord Theatricals.

“The opportunity to work with such a force in the musical theatre and Broadway community is a truly remarkable experience for our students,” said Rebecca Marianetti, York Drama Director. “Students will walk away with skills for a lifetime of performing.”

York students selected to rehearse and perform with Gasparini include Annalise Belzile, Aidan Costanzo, Owen Espinosa, Paige Greve, Luke Hanley, David Izzo, Rosie Kungl, Leo Macariola, Ben Plaisted, Rianna Roberts, Grace Stewart, Kristina Vezmar, and Regan Wright. Selected students participated in a public master class with Gasparini the afternoon before the concert and the ensemble of students closed the evening with a powerful rendition of “When I Go.” “It’s a big deal to be working with someone at the Broadway level, especially as someone who is hoping to study musical theatre,” said Owen Espinosa, York senior. “It means so much to be learning from and performing with a composer whose

music speaks so much to me.”

“I have been singing Gasparini’s songs since middle school, so this is a particularly special ‘full circle’ moment,” York junior Regan Wright said. “I am so fortunate I go to a high school where opportunities like this are available to me--it’s mind blowing.”

York Drama students are scheduled to perform their next musical, ACE, Feb. 3, 4, 5 and 6. See yorkdrama.org for details.

RICHARD R. BECKER, 78 Services Saturday Richard R. Becker, a longtime resident of Elmhurst, passed away on December 11, 2021 at the age of 78. He grew up in Chicago and enjoyed his summers out on the family farm with his aunt and uncle. He graduated from Lane Tech high school and earned a master’s degree at Illinois Institute of Technology. He went on to a successful career in electrical engineering at Northrop Grumman, achieving two patents. He retired after 32 years to enjoy himself.

He was a member of the Skunk Hollow Ski Club where he met his wife of 49 years. Their travels to Budapest, Germany, Norway, and Alaska were some of their favorite adventures. He loved bird-watching and nourishing them in the many feeders he built from scratch. He loved to build, fix, and re-engineer things.

Beloved husband of Gwendolyn Becker for 49 years; loving father of Melenie Becker and Eric (Jamie) Becker; proud grandfather of Eli and Emmet; brother of Betty (Phil) Fogle, Kathy (Gary) Butterbaugh, and Lil Webb; and son of the late Richard E. and the late Edna Kollner Becker.

He is also survived by a large extended family.

Visitation from 3-8 p.m. on Friday, Dec. 17, at Elmhurst Community Funeral Home – The Ahlgrim Chapel, 567 S. Spring Road, Elmhurst. A funeral service will be at 10:30 a.m. on Saturday, Dec. 18, at Epiphany Lutheran Church, 314 W. Vallette Street, Elmhurst. Interment at Elm Lawn Cemetery, Elmhurst. Info – 630-834-3515 or www.ElmhurstFH. com. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation in his memory to any advocacy for Parkinson’s research.

Judge detains student accused of threatening Wood Dale Junior High On Monday, Dec. 13, DuPage County State’s Attorney Robert Berlin and Wood Dale Chief of Police Greg Vesta announced that an Indian Trail Middle School student had been accused of posting a threatening message on social media directed at Wood Dale Junior High School in Wood Dale. The juvenile, who lives in Addison, appeared at a detention hearing last Friday where Judge Anthony Coco ordered that he be detained. He has been charged with one count of Disorderly Conduct, a Class 4 Felony.

It is alleged that on Thursday, Dec. 9, the juvenile, who is 12 years old, posted a message on social media that read “(Expletive) school I didn’t go, I’m already planning to the drive by.” Once alerted to the threat, the Wood Dale Police Department identified the juvenile as a suspect. He was taken into custody later that day without incident from

his home.

“So far, in 2021, there have been 15 threats directed at DuPage County Schools,” Berlin said. “In addition to disturbing the school day, these threats cause fear and anxiety not just to those at the school, but to the entire community. I want to remind and encourage students, staff and parents as well, if you see something, say something. As I have said in the past, these threats must stop and any threat of violence aimed at a school will immediately be investigated and, if found credible, will be charged accordingly.”

The juvenile’s next court appearance was scheduled for Wednesday, Dec. 15, for a status hearing. A bench trial has been scheduled for Wednesday, Jan. 5, 2022, in front of Judge Coco.

Members of the public are reminded that this complaint contains only charges and is not proof of the defendant’s guilt.

The Elmhurst Independent - Thursday, Dec. 16, 2021 • 5

MEMORIES FADE, BUT TRADITIONS REMAIN. Artis helps her enjoy this season the way she always has.

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6 • Thursday, Dec. 16, 2021 - 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.

with DUI, two counts of improper lane usage and failure to carry a driver’s license on person subsequent to a traffic stop near North and Ferndale at 10:31 p.m.

Battery

Dec. 4 Aleazar Valois Urquiza, 23, of Glen Ellyn, was charged with DUI, disobeying a traffic control signal, transportation of open alcohol by a driver and no insurance subsequent to a traffic stop near West and North at 12:48 a.m.

Dec. 4 Tinu V. Mathew, 36, of Elmhurst, was charged with battery in the 900 block of N. Virginia at 2:03 a.m. According to police, a victim, who said she is an Uber driver, related the suspect touched her inappropriately, called her names and struck her vehicle with his fists while transporting him Sept. 12. On the above date, police said Mathew came to the police station to turn himself in on a warrant.

Criminal damage, criminal trespass Dec. 7 Police said a reporting officer met with the victim in the 100 block of Industrial Drive who reported an unknown suspect purposely damaged the victim’s vehicle. The victim stated a coworker observed a male suspect purposely and forcefully open his driver’s door into the victim’s vehicle. This case is pending investigation.

Dec. 3-Dec. 7 Police said District 205 school officials reported an unknown suspect(s) used black spray paint to spray an image on the northeast corner of a building in the 900 block of Swain sometime between the above dates.

Dec. 5-Dec. 6 Police said a reporting officer met with a victim in the 300 block of May who reported that an unknown suspect(s) cut the Christmas lights which were placed on a row of bushes in the front of the residence sometime between the above dates.

Dec. 4 A victim in the 200 block of E. Oneida told police at 10:31 p.m. that two unknown suspects drove past her house in a black four door sedan. The victim further stated the suspects exited the vehicle and damaged an inflatable Christmas decoration which was displayed in front of her home. Video surveillance shows a white male, approximately 14-16 years of age, wearing no shirt. The suspect was observed running and jumping onto an inflatable. In addition, the individual threw two eggs at the residence. An additional unknown suspect appeared to be filming the incident. This case is pending investigation.

Nov. 28-Dec. 3 A victim in the 100 block of N. Maple told police that an unknown suspect(s) cut her Christmas lights on three separate occasions between the above dates.

Domestic battery, domestic incident, disorderly conduct Dec. 8 Police said officers conducted an investigative stop on a vehicle near York and Industrial at 3:02 a.m. that was believed to be stolen from an address in Chicago. After identifying the driver and passenger, it was found the plate on the vehicle was the wrong state and not a

Dec. 5 Avelino Alcala, 53, of Villa Park, was charged with DUI near Route 83 and North at 3:02 p.m.

CALL 800-222-TIPS match. After further investigation, it was determined a clerical error had been made by the entering agency and the vehicle was determined to be stolen. An investigation is pending.

Identity theft was reported in the 200 block of N. York at 8:10 a.m. A complainant reported she mailed a business check to the building owner. After the check was mailed, an unknown suspect forged the recipient’s name and changed the amount. The complainant notified her bank of the forgery.

Dec. 7 Gabriella Del Toro, 42, of Elmhurst, was charged with disorderly conduct, attempted battery and resisting a police officer in the 1000 block of S. York at 2:07 p.m. Police said officers responded to the above location for a female subject who attempted to spit on customers. The reporting officer made contact with Del Toro, and while attempting to place her into custody, she attempted to spit at officers, according to police.

A 26-year-old Elmhurst man was charged with two counts of domestic battery in the 100 block of Fellows at 10:59 p.m. Police said a reporting officer met with the victim who reported the suspect forcefully pushed her causing minor injuries.

Dec. 2 A 47-year-old Chicago man was charged with domestic battery on the above date stemming from an incident that allegedly occurred in the 1000 block of S. Euclid Nov. 28. On Nov. 28, police said officers responded to the above location for the report of a delayed domestic battery. The reporting officer met with the victim who reported the suspect battered her multiple times before leaving the apartment. The reporting officer attempted to contact the suspect but was met with no results.

On the above date, the suspect came into the police station to turn himself in on the arrest warrant.

DUI, transportation of open alcohol, possession of open alcohol Dec. 8 Randolph Beckmann, 57, of Elmhurst, was charged with DUI, improper lane usage and no insurance subsequent to a single vehicle crash near Spring and St. Charles at 10:01 p.m.

Dec. 6 Genaro Ceto Carrillo, 20, of Bensenville, was charged with aggravated DUI, Driving While License Suspended, Illegal Transportation of Open Alcohol and no insurance subsequent to a traffic stop near Utley and Rex at 8:09 a.m.

Evelia Vega, 36, of Villa Park, was charged

Dec. 2 Isaiah T. Presley, 21, of Newton, Kan., was issued a citation for possession of open alcohol in public near Second and Addison at 11:21 p.m.

Fleeing, eluding

According to information provided last week by the Elmhurst Police Department, police reported two incidents of fleeing and eluding in which drivers of a vehicle or a motorcycle reportedly fled after a traffic stop was conducted.

Possession of cannabis, possession of drug paraphernalia, possession of a controlled substance Dec. 3 Kobbe Anderson, 24, of Stone Park, was charged with unlawful possession of a controlled substance and possession of drug paraphernalia at a business in the 600 block of W. North at 11:09 p.m. Police said that subsequent to a suspicious vehicle investigation, Anderson was found to have two active warrants out of the DuPage County Sheriff’s Office. A search of the vehicle yielded a controlled substance, according to police.

Andrezej J. Kudlacik, 39, of Plainfield, was charged with unlawful possession of a controlled substance, driving while license revoked, driving under the influence of drugs, illegal stopping on the roadway and no insurance near North and West at 3 p.m.

Dec. 2-Dec. 6 Between the above dates, Bianca G. Davis, 33, of Calumet Park; and Walid Bouchama, 23, of Chicago, were issued citations for possession of cannabis in a vehicle.

Suspicious circumstances Dec. 5 Police said officers responded to the above location for the report of a single vehicle rollover crash. A witness reported the driver of the vehicle allegedly fled on foot in an unknown direction. Jasmine Macias, a passenger in the vehicle, stated she had just met the suspect, Lavon Thomas, 23, of Bellwood, and was unable to provide any further information.

Macias was cited for unlawful possession of cannabis Police said Thomas was later located and was placed under arrest. He was charged with leaving the scene of a personal injury accident, reckless driving and driving while license suspended.

Police said a reporting officer met with a complainant in the 600 block of S. Spring who reported an unknown suspect was pulling on their front door. The suspect was also observed pulling on the complainant’s vehicle door which was parked in the driveway.

Theft or burglary/identity theft/fraud/forgery/ deceptive practice/ obstruction/robbery

Dec. 7 Retail theft was reported at a food and liquor store in the 400 block of N. York at 4:35 p.m. Police said the store manager reported an unknown male suspect entered the store and took two bottles of liquor past the final point of sale. The unknown suspect exited the store and fled the area in a silver Nissan Altima.

Oct. 20-Dec. 7 Identity theft was reported in the 700 block of S. Benton. A victim reported an unknown suspect(s) used his personal information in attempts to open multiple bank accounts sometime between the above dates. The victim placed a security freeze on his credit report and filed an identity theft report with the Federal Trade Commission.

Dec. 6 Fraud was reported in the 500 block of S. Bryan at 11:48 a.m. Police said a reporting officer met with a complainant who reported receiving an email reference about a membership fee that was owed. The victim contacted the phone number provided and spoke with an unknown suspect who remotely accessed the victim’s computer. The unknown suspect then appeared to manipulate the victim’s bank accounts. The victim immediately shut down his computer to avoid any further tampering. The complainant reported the incident to his bank and his account was frozen. There is no money loss and no information on the suspect.

Dec. 4 Identity theft was reported in the 200 block of N. Willow at 9:30 a.m. A victim told police that she received a bill for a Verizon Wireless account which was opened using her personal information.

Theft of vehicle parts was reported at a business in the 400 block of W. Fullerton at 12:15 p.m. A victim told police that an unknown suspect(s) removed the catalytic converter from his vehicle while it was parked in the rear of the business. Surveillance video showed a white Dodge Charger stopped next to the victim’s vehicle. This case is pending investigation.

Theft of vehicle parts was reported in the 1200 block of S. Prospect at 3:54 p.m. Police said while on a follow-up investigation, officers located a vehicle which was found to have the catalytic converter removed. Officers responded to the address provided on the vehicle’s registration and met with the resident who stated they recently moved in and the registered owner no longer lives at the address.

This case is pending investigation.

Retail theft was reported at a store in the 100 block of E. Butterfield at 5:12 p.m. A complainant reported that a suspect took two lighters and left the store without paying. The suspect purchased cigarettes and removed the lighters while the clerk was not looking. The complainant does not wish to sign complaints but requested the suspect be served with a no trespass notice. This case is pending investigation.

Dec. 3 Theft of vehicle parts was reported at York High School at 1:13 p.m. A victim told police that an unknown suspect(s) removed the catalytic converter from his vehicle while it was parked in the faculty parking lot. This case is

See POLICE, Page 7

The Elmhurst Independent - Thursday, Dec. 16, 2021 • 7

Elmhurst University launches record fundraising campaign VanAken makes announcement at Founders Day event ational facilities, support for academic programs and scholarships, and more.

“The time for imagining is over.

This is our time. This is our moment.

This is when we take hold of our ambitious plans and make them a reality,” VanAken said Monday before a large, in-person crowd of faculty and staff, students, trustees, alumni and community leaders. About 150 remote viewers watched the announcement via livestream.

President VanAken’s announcement culminated a day of campus-wide festivities celebrating the 150th anniversary of Elmhurst University’s founding on Dec. 6, 1871.

Activities included a time capsule presentation, a historic re-enactment of the University’s founding, a service project, sled dog demonstrations, a special holiday dinner for the students, horse-drawn trolley rides, and remarks by not only President VanAken but also by student, faculty and alumni leaders, and by Elmhurst Mayor Scott Levin.

Mayor Levin congratulated the University on its sesquicentennial, noting that its active role as an employer, cultural and educational resource, and community partner in the City of Elmhurst “is one of the things that makes our city great.”

SUBMITTED PHOTO Elmhurst Independent “We’ve grown up together, we’ve supported each other, we have historic bonds with each other,” he Visitation’s Student Council organized a toy drive to support children that are currently staying at said. “This institution has grown into Lurie’s Children’s Hospital. Families were asked to bring in new, unwrapped toys and their genersomething really amazing.” osity and support was incredible. Pictured are members of Visitation’s Student Council with a small Elmhurst 150: The Campaign for number of the many toys that were donated.

Elmhurst University, which has a total fundraising goal of $50 million, includes four major campaign goals and projects in need of support: (Continued from page 6) • Memorial Hall Health Science pending investigation. in the 200 block of E. May at 10:21 that he was notified of five business Initiative: With a fundraising goal of Theft of vehicle parts was reported a.m. A victim told police that a mes- checks were fraudulently creat- $12 million, this initiative envisions at a store in the 200 block of Route sage was displayed on her computer ed and cashed. An investigation is 83 at 2:48 p.m. A victim told police notifying her of fraudulent activity pending. that an unknown suspect(s) removed on her credit card account. The mesthe catalytic converter from his ve- sage indicated the victim needed to Nov. 15 hicle while it was parked in the rear purchase gift cards in order to reForgery was reported in the 100 parking lot at the above location. solve the issue. The victim complied block of S. Fairfield at 2:41 p.m. A and provided the gift card numbers to victim reported that an unknown Dec. 2-Dec. 3 the unknown suspect. suspect(s) withdrew funds from her By Dee Longfellow Theft of vehicle parts was reportPolice said while conducting a bar bank account using a forged check. FOR THE ELMHURST INDEPENDENT ed at a hotel in the 300 block of N. check in the 100 block of Addison at The victim suspects a former emThe School District 205 Board of Route 83. A victim told police that 10:21 p.m., an officer observed sev- ployee that had access to the victim’s Directors sent a special communique an unknown suspect(s) removed the eral subjects who appeared to be un- information may be responsible. last week to advise parents and other catalytic converter from her vehicle der the age of 21. After speaking with community stakeholders of its new while it was parked on the southeast the subjects, they admitted to using Aug. 29 public comment procedure, which side of the parking lot sometime be- fake IDs to gain entry to the bar, acResidential burglary was reported will began at the Dec. 14 Board of tween the above dates. cording to police. Police said the fic- in the 400 block of Argyle at 10:27 Education meeting.

“As we work to uphold this legacy titious IDs were confiscated and were a.m. A reporting officer met with the Dec. 1-Dec. 3 placed into evidence for destruction. victim who reported approximately of excellence, we continue to value Theft of vehicle parts was report- None of the subjects appeared intox- two months ago her ex-husband en- the voices of our fellow commued at a business in the 900 block of icated or under the influence of alco- tered the apartment through an un- nity members and understand that Route 83. A victim told police that hol, according to police. Daulton L. secured window. The victim did not the public comment section of the an unknown suspect(s) removed the Burgner, 20, of Smithton, Ill.; Sean wish to sign complaints but wanted Board’s business meeting is an imcatalytic converter from his vehicle D. Hunt, 18, of Land O Lakes, Fla.; the matter documented. portant way for many in our commuwhile it was parked on the south side Nicholas A. Parisi, 18, of Tampa, nity to share their perspectives with of the building sometime between Fla.; and William A. Sherman, 18, the Board of Education,” the memo the above dates. said. of Oconto, Wis., were each issued Warrant arrest “We would like to share an update a citation for false use of an ID and Dec. 2 Dec. 2 minor on a licensed premise. John Police said Khair N. Hnaihen, 25, with you regarding the public comTheft was reported at a recreation- F. Crannore, 18, of Pleasant Lakes, of Burbank, came to the police de- ment process at our upcoming Board al center in the 200 block of W. First Mich., was issued a citation for mi- partment to provide proof of own- of Education meetings.” at 5:11 p.m. A victim told police that nor on a licensed premise.

Beginning at the Tuesday, Dec. 14 ership of a vehicle which had been an unknown suspect(s) stole his unpreviously towed. Hnaihen was Board of Education meeting, the upattended cell phone and Bluetooth Nov. 26 found to have a valid warrant from dated public comment procedure will headphone from the counter in the Theft was reported at an auto the DuPage County Sheriff’s Office be in place. The details of the updatmen’s locker room. business in the 200 block of Lake at and was taken into custody, accord- ed process for public comments are Deceptive practice was reported 4:20 p.m. A complainant told police ing to police. below, in hopes of creating clear and

Elmhurst University has announced a record $50 million fundraising campaign to support crucial opportunities and resources that will have a lasting impact on current and future students and the University as

a whole.

Elmhurst 150: The Campaign for Elmhurst University represents the largest fundraising campaign in the University’s history. Announced by President Troy D. VanAken during

the University’s 150th anniversary Founders Day celebration on Monday, Dec. 6, the campaign includes money for a state-of-the-art hub for students in the health professions, renovations to athletic and recre-

Visitation toy drive for kids at Lurie’s Hospital

• Police

an expanded and renovated Memorial Hall that will be a thriving hub for all of the health science programs, including nursing, occupational therapy, speech pathology and more.

• Athletics and Recreation: Renovated recreational spaces, featuring new competition surfaces, tracks and scoreboards, will strengthen the student experience and engage the community beyond campus. This initiative has a fundraising goal of $2 million.

• Endowment and Restricted Funds: Growth in the endowment and restricted funds will support endowed faculty chairs, programs and scholarships. With a fundraising goal of $30 million, the funds are essential for maintaining short-term liquidity while preserving the University’s long-term financial stability.

• The Elmhurst University Annual Fund: The Elmhurst University Annual Fund contributes directly to Elmhurst students’ education through scholarships and operational and programmatic support. Meeting the goal to raise $6 million for the Annual Fund will enable Elmhurst to welcome a growing number of students with limited means but unlimited potential.

Thanks to significant gifts made during the quiet phase of the campaign, the University already has raised more than $40 million, or 80 percent of the total goal. That amount derives from more than 17,000 gifts received from more than 6,200 donors.

“The point of this campaign is to shape our future,” President VanAken said. “While our goal is ambitious, we set it because we believe it’s achievable—and because it’s what we need to lay a solid foundation for Elmhurst’s future.”

District 205 Board updates public comment process

consistent procedures for the entire community.

Public comment process • A numbered sign-in sheet will be available at the Board meeting for all speakers to sign up to speak prior to the start of the meeting.

• Sign-up sheets will be available starting at 6:30 p.m. for regular and special Board meetings and 5 p.m. for Committee meetings.

• Speakers will now be called by number using a random number generator application to determine the order of the public comment speakers.

• The random number generated will be visible during the Board meeting using the screen in the Boardroom.

• Once a random number is generated, the board secretary will call the speaker’s name that correlates with the number on the sign-in sheet.

This information, along with any future updates, can be found on the website at www.elmhurst205.org under Board of Education.

8 • Thursday, Dec. 16, 2021 - The Elmhurst Independent

The Elmhurst Independent

Viewpoint

Dec. 16, 2021 • 8

Peril at the top of Illinois GOP ticket

By Jim Nowlan Candidates for one elective office can affect the outcomes for others on the same party ticket.

For example, an unattractive or goofy candidate at the top of the ticket can depress turnout of the party faithful, thus depriving all candidates down the ballot of their votes.

That is what scares the dickens out of Illinois Republican Party leaders, who appear thus far impotent to do anything about such possibilities.

At the top of the 2022 ballot in Illinois is the office of U.S. senator, held by Democrat Tammy Duckworth, who seeks re-election. As I have written elsewhere, who would want to run against an unobjectionable woman who had her legs blown off while piloting an Army helicopter in Iraq, defending her country?

I have not heard of any credible types who are willing, most likely, to fall on their swords in a race against Sen. Duckworth. This increases the chances that a nut case could file petitions and become the GOP nominee. It has happened before. In 1986, Illinois Democrats nominated two unknown radicals with good ballot names (Janice Hart and Mark Fairchild) to the state ticket, which assured the defeat of former U.S. Senator Adlai Stevenson in his bid for governor.

Next on the ballot is governor.

The incumbent JB Pritzker has more money than Croesus, and is willing to spend it to be reelected.

At this time, there are four GOP candidates: • Darren Bailey, a folksy, very conservative downstate, anti-vax

lawmaker who has the passionate support of the important home school and Christian school network, probably more effective than any GOP network.

• Successful, suburban businessman Gary Rabine (last name pronounced with two “long” vowels), a Trump supporter.

• Paul Schimpf, a retired Marine JAG officer and former state senator from the Metro East St. Louis region, and • Jesse Sullivan, a 35-year-old, telegenic All-American sort who has made some money in the Silicon Valley, yet trumpets his roots, home and family in picturesque rural Petersburg.

At present, Bailey appears far ahead of the other three, yet the primary isn’t until late June. I see quite a few Bailey yard signs in my travels around central Illinois. Yard signs spread across downstate are a decent indicator of a strong network of supporters, good organization, and the potential to raise some money.

My insider lobbyist, legislator and political junkie friends say the only type who has a chance against Pritzker is one who can appeal to women in the suburbs. In 2018, the 6½ suburban counties around Chicago cast a total of 2.1 million votes; those in the 95 counties “downstate” cast 1.5 million. Surveys report that college-educated women, though not enthusiastic about abortion, strongly oppose (around 75 percent; various polls) overturning Roe v Wade, as a women’s rights issue. The four GOP aspirants are all pro-life.

And then there is the matter of money to go up against “Croesus,” who spent $175 million of his own

By Raja Krishnamoorthji As we continue to track outbreaks of the Omicron COVID-19 variant across the world and learn more about its risks, the importance of Americans getting vaccinated is more evident than ever.

As I recently told Crain’s Chicago Business, to truly end this pandemic it See GOP, Page 17 is not enough to achieve widespread vaccination here in the United States.

This pandemic only ends when it ends everywhere.

As first demonstrated by the Delta variant and now Omicron, which was first identified in South Africa, so long as the Coronavirus can spread anywhere, the potential for new variants is a danger to everyone everywhere.

New threats will continue to arise as and the City of Elmhurst for helping long as global and domestic vaccinaus to continue to move forward. tion efforts fail to achieve widespread ECPA is a long-term investment inoculation. for the community with strong ties to That’s why I introduced the Nullifylocal businesses and residents. For ing Opportunities for Variants to Infect more information on ECPA, please and Decimate (NOVID) Act earlier visit ECPA-Elmhurst.org this year to ensure that the United Elmhurst Centre for States would lead the way in a global Performing Arts vaccination program to end this panShawna Roubitchek, Managing demic. I’m continuing to work with Director President Biden and my colleagues in

Letter to the editor

ECPA thanks community for supporting Spotlight Gala The Elmhurst Centre for Performing Arts would like to thank the Elmhurst community and surrounding areas for their tremendous support of our Sixth Annual Spotlight Gala on November 13th.

We would like to thank our community for their generosity and interest as we work behind the scenes to bring you exciting news very soon. A special thanks to Mayor Scott Levin

Update on the Omicron variant and my global vaccination efforts Congress to expand our vaccination efforts to end the pandemic not just here at home, but across the world.

Cure SMA’s ‘Hope on the Hill’ event I was honored to attend the recent “Hope on the Hill” event hosted by Cure SMA—an organization based in my district—to raise awareness about spinal muscular atrophy (SMA), a neuromuscular degenerative disease. Cure SMA has already led tremendous progress in its mission. Today, 38 states, including Illinois, screen for SMA, covering nearly 85 percent of all babies born in this country.

I am committed to Cure SMA’s mission. This past summer, I was happy that the U.S. House of Representatives passed bipartisan legislation that I cosponsored, the Newborn Screening Saves Lives Reauthorization Act (H.R. 482).

This bill helps provide resources and technical assistance to state newborn screening programs and labs.

I was also pleased to cosponsor the Better Care Better Jobs Act (H.R. 4131) to provide more funding for home care and community-based services, which individuals with SMA rely on to help them daily. I’m happy to announce that portions of H.R. 4131 were included in

the Build Back Better Act that was passed in the House in November.

My bicameral letter to the Department of Education on student voter registration Last week, I partnered with Sen. Cory Booker in leading a letter to the U.S. Department of Education with more than two dozen members of Congress to call for improved student voter registration programs from institutions of higher education.

The Higher Education Act requires that any institute of higher education that receives federal financial aid funds distribute voter registration materials.

Our letter requests that voter registration information distributed by universities reflect the current voter registration information, including online registration and registration deadlines, and that universities adopt best practices for notifying students of deadlines.

Our democracy is based on the foundation of equal access and full participation in our electoral system, including from young people. We need to ensure that voter registration is a clear and accessible process for college students, many of whom are first-time voters. The Department of Education should make every effort to facilitate student voter registration.

The Elmhurst Independent - Thursday, Dec. 16, 2021 • 9

Elmhurst University, COD launch new ‘2+2’ agreements Degrees offered in digital marketing communication, music business

Elmhurst University and College of DuPage have launched two new “2+2” programs designed to help COD students transfer seamlessly to Elmhurst.

Developed for students who plan to major in digital marketing communication or music business, the programs allow students to earn an associate degree at COD and a bachelor’s degree from Elmhurst in just four years.

With the addition of the two new agreements, which launched on Nov. 1, Elmhurst now has a total of 24 2+2 agreements with COD for transfer students. Under the agreements, COD students can start planning their transition to Elmhurst as early as their first semester, by following an academic transfer plan designed for their particular area of study. The academic plan ensures a smooth transition, and students may transfer up to 70 hours of credit.

The 2+2 in Digital Marketing Communication (DMC) reflects the success of one of Elmhurst’s newer programs of study, which was launched in 2019 as part of the new Digital Media Program and already has become one of the University’s more popular majors.

“The DMC major offers a blend of strategy and skills for a range of careers in interactive marketing and social media management,” said Courtney Waite Miller, chair of the communication and media department. “This partnership offers COD students the opportunity to plan their coursework knowing that their degree can be com-

Obituaries

Anne Carolyn Chilstrom, 89 Anne Carolyn Chilstrom, of Elmhurst, passed away December 5, 2021, at the age of 89. Dear daughter of the late John A. and Emma C. Chilstrom; sister of Kenneth (the late Mary Ruth) Chilstrom, the late Ruth Chilstrom and the late Dorothy Chilstrom; aunt of Glen (Mary) Chilstrom, John Scott (Karen) Chilstrom and Carol (Curt) Stevens; great aunt of six; second cousin of Julie Roberts and Susan (Whit) Matteson. She was a lifelong Elmhurst resident, born in the family home on Saylor Avenue, and the youngest of four children. She graduated from York High School and was proud of her work for The Bell Telephone Company for more than 30 years. She was a devoted and active member of Grace Lutheran Church, memorable to many for the joy she brought to the Prayer Shawl Ministry. Anne was an avid gardener, a lover of nature, community volunteer and supporter of such local organizations as the Brookfield Zoo, the Elmhurst Historical Foundation, the Elmhurst Symphony, the Elmhurst Library, and the Lizza-

pleted within two years at Elmhurst.”

The new Music Business 2+2 has an academic plan connected to the associate of applied science degree at COD, making it the second version of a 2+2 in music business.

The first 2+2 was based on COD students completing an associate of arts degree. The new agreement allows students to take a different pathway at COD before making the same seamless transition to completing coursework at Elmhurst. Music Business majors at Elmhurst prepare for careers in music and media, the recording industry, music products, live music components, production and more.

Kris Fay, dean of business and applied technology and interim dean for the arts, communication and hospitality divisions, said the new 2+2 agreements with Elmhurst are a welcome addition for students who want to continue their education in these desirable fields.

“Elmhurst University has demonstrated once again their willingness to partner with College of DuPage to create relevant educational and career paths for our students,” she said. “The new 2+2 programs provide COD students with even more seamless transfer opportunities.”

For more information about these new agreements, please contact COD’s Counseling, Advising and Transfer Services Department at (630) 942-2259; or Elmhurst University Transfer Admission Counselor Sophie Lichlyter at sophie.lichlyter@ elmhurst.edu or (630) 617-3097.

dro Museum of Lapidary Art. Anne found joy in long bicycle rides along the Prairie Path, baking and sharing holiday cookies, and preserving her Swedish heritage. She cherished her family, friends, and relationship with God. Funeral services were held on Monday, Dec. 13, at Grace Lutheran Church, 200 N. Catherine Ave., LaGrange. Interment Glen Oaks Cemetery. Arrangements in care of Elmhurst Community Funeral Home – The Ahlgrim Chapel. For info, 630834-3515 or www.ElmhurstFH.com.

In lieu of flowers, memorials appreciated for Grace Lutheran Church or the Brookfield Zoo.

SUBMITTED PHOTO Elmhurst Independent

Visitation Scouts collect for needy children

Visitation Boy Scout Troop 14 held its Annual Toys for Tots Drive on Sunday, Dec. 5 at Visitation Church in Elmhurst. The troop collected more than 100 toys for children in need this holiday season.

First class scout Dillon Noble coordinated the event with the DuPage County Toys for Tots program and the toys were dropped off at their facility in Darien to be distributed in time for Christmas.

Kate Knicker named new executive director of Foundation 205 Elmhurst resident Kate Knicker was named the new Executive Director of Foundation 205. Knicker officially began her role on Monday, Nov. 29.

Kate has a master’s degree in Public Administration from Ohio State University and a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science and Communications from Purdue University. She has spent much of her professional career in higher education fundraising and program development, including seven years working at the University of Illinois at Chicago. She is also an Elmhurst resident, a District 205 parent and a volunteer with the Field PTA. “The Foundation board is excited to welcome Kate! Her extensive fundraising background will help us do what we do best; fund excep-

Kate Knicker

tional and innovative learning opportunities for all students in D205,” said Alison Dondlinger, Foundation Board Chair. “We are thankful to have her as part of our team. Kate will be a dedicated and collabora-

tive leader, while ensuring the future of the Foundation by supporting the success of students across all academic buildings in 205!”

“I’m excited to join Foundation 205 and further the mission to enhance the learning opportunities of students in District 205,” Knicker said. “The Foundation has become a go-to resource for funding innovative and exciting new programming. Our board members are always thinking creatively about how to continue to grow and adapt to meet the needs of students and teachers. I look forward to assisting them as they continue to find new ways to support elevated learning experiences across the district.”

Kate succeeds Kristi Amendola, who took over as Executive Director of Foundation 205 in July 2019.

Community cable programs for December Programs air on COMCAST Channel 6 and AT&T U-Verse Channel 99.

Programs may also be found at ElmhurstTV.com.

Explore Elmhurst York Community High School Distinguished Alumni Program “Dukes of Distinction 2021” Thursdays at 6 p.m.

emony Saturdays at 8 p.m. (starts 12/4) Master of Ceremonies: Bill Shanklin - Fridays at 7 p.m.

Elmhurst Our Kind of Town #1117 - Elmhurst TV Archives Explore Elmhurst Presentation Elmhurst University Veterans Day Elmhurst Children’s Theatre Band Concert - Sundays at 8 p.m.

“Into the Woods” Original Airdate: December 2010 Explore Elmhurst Sundays at 5 p.m. (starts 12/5) City of Elmhurst Commission on Youth Presents: Elmhurst Our Kind of Town Explore Elmhurst “Increase of Teen Issues and Risky #1451 - Elmhurst TV Archives Wilder Park Conservatory’s – Hol- Behaviors” Presentation iday Flower Show Discussion supporting teens that Spirito! Singers “What Sweeter Music” Spirito!

Get in the holiday spirit at Wilder are engaging in high-risk behaviors Park Conservatory’s stunning holi(self-injury, eating disorders, Christmas Concert Original Airdate: December 2018 day floral display school refusal, substance use, etc.)

Saturdays at 6 p.m. (starts 12/4) Mondays at 6 p.m. (starts 12/20) Mondays at 7 p.m.

Judy Kalivoda, 75 Judy Kalivoda passed away in Elmhurst on December 12, 2021, at the age of 75. She was the beloved wife of George; loving mother of Mark (Jenny) Rachwalski, Karla (Israel Ramirez) Rachwalski, and Brian (Claudia Farciert) Rachwalski; cherished grandmother of Anna, Nathan, Explore Elmhurst Elmhurst Choral Union Lily, John, Emilio, Adrian, Ariana, “Handel’s Messiah” and Christian. Services and InterTBA (starts late December or in ment will be private. Arrangements entrusted to Elmhurst Community January) Funeral Home – The Ahlgrim Chapel, Elmhurst, IL. For more informa- City Of Elmhurst #28 2021 Elmhurst Veterans Day Certion, please call (630) 834-3515.

Elmhurst Our Kind of Town #1414 - Elmhurst TV Archives Presentation Elmhurst Symphony Orchestra “The Pied Piper Fantasy” Music Director & Conductor, Stephen Alltop Original Airdate: December 2017

Elmhurst PSA loop Various Announcements from the City of Elmhurst Wednesdays at 5 p.m.

City Council meetings air Wednesdays at 12 noon and Thursdays 7 p.m.

School District #205 Board Meetings air on Thursdays 2 p.m.

10 • Thursday, Dec. 16, 2021 - The Elmhurst Independent

EMH Foundation’s Special Edition Reindeer Route Housewalk under way The Elmhurst Memorial Hospital (EMH) Foundation’s 45th Anniversary Special Edition Reindeer Route Housewalk is being held with a twist to adapt to the ongoing impact of COVID-19. Traditionally, the Housewalk features Elmhurst homes decorated for the holidays by local florists.

The 2021 version, instead, is a monthlong ReindeerWALK. A portion of proceeds from the 2021 ReindeerWALK will benefit the Teen Volunteer Health Profession Scholarship fund, which also includes the Marilyn A. Graber Teen Scholarship.

The scholarships are for Elmhurst Hospital teen volunteers interested in pursuing careers in healthcare.

Options for participation include direct sponsorship of a Teen Volunteer Scholarship and/or taking part in the ReindeerWALK December Challenge.

The Challenge involves walking 45 minutes a day, 45 minutes a week or as long and often as desired for the month.

ICCP bowlers win division

SUBMITTED PHOTO Elmhurst Independent

Pictured is the ICCP Bowling Team, which won the Blue Division on Saturday, Dec. 4, at its home tournament held at Bowlero in Glendale Heights. Gavin Rickert took 8th overall in High Game with a 258. Jacob Gunther took 7th in High Game Series with a pin total of 1239. Pictured are (from left): Jacob Sloan, Marco Rodriguez, Jacob Gunther, Jacob Schierl, Coach Dan Gunther, Gavin Rickert, Luke Beckman and Nick Alaimo.

$

Elmhurst Art Museum’s Par Excellence Redux: The Back 9 closes Jan. 2 In support of Par Excellence Redux: The Back 9—an exhibition where recreation and art collide—the Elmhurst Art Museum wishes to announce and remind residents that the exhibit will be closing Jan. 2. Par Excellence Redux is a fully playable course designed by artists and architects from

To find out how your business can be included, call Debbie at 630-834-8355 or Brenda at 630-834-4450

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the Midwest and beyond and is still available for “tee times.” The artist-designed mini golf course is the perfect activity to do with family, friends, and co-workers this month.

The exhibition closes in less than a month. Tee times can be reserved at elmhurstartmuseum.org/golf 409593

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Tickets are $45 each to be a ReindeerWALK Participant or ReindeerWALK Supporter (non-walking participant). Walkers will receive an event bag, special anniversary koozie and packet of hot cocoa, and are encouraged to have friends, family and neighbors “sponsor my walk” with a contribution.

Be sure to walk through and enjoy the decorated and featured ReindeerWALK blocks where The Grinch and Santa will be available for photos. Holiday treats will be available for purchase from several vendors during the following times: Friday, Dec. 10 from 5 – 8 p.m. on South St. (Poplar Ave. to Fair Ave.) and Friday, Dec. 17 from 5 – 8 p.m. on Rex Blvd. (Surf St. to Randolph St.).

For more information and a list of suggested December walks, visit www. eehealth.org/ReindeerWalk. For more information about the EMH Foundation, visit www.emhfoundation.org or call (331) 221-0388.

Visit one of these fine Early Bird Specials establishments 7.95 to take DAILY HOMEMADE SOUPS advantage & LUNCHEON SPECIALS of terrific 630-279-3738 Katrinkets is savings!

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The Elmhurst Independent - Thursday, Dec. 16, 2021 • 11

The Elmhurst Independent

Real Estate/Business

Dec. 16, 2021 •11

American Legion to host Great Lakes Naval recruits on Christmas Day On Saturday, Dec. 25, the Elmhurst American Legion Post 187 is hosting a Christmas dinner for over 150 recruits from the Great Lakes Naval Station Recruit Training Command.

Computers and cell phones will be provided for the recruits to contact home, as this is the first outside contact they have had since their 3-minute phone to let their family that they

had arrived safely on the base. leave the Legion at about 6 p.m. to re- etables and cranberry sauce, topped sandwiches.

Recruits will be picked up in bus- turn to the base… off with apple, pumpkin or sweet poFor more information, contact Legion Past Commander Bob Daniels, es and bring them to the Post at about Dinner will include turkey, ham, tato pie.

9:30 a.m., where they will enjoy mashed potatoes, stuffing, gravy, vegAt supper, they can make their own who is charring the Christmas event. donuts and sweet rolls along with juice, milk, etc. (Donuts donated by Clyde’s.)

Dinner will be served family-style at about 1 p.m. and a light supper will take place at 4:30 p.m. Recruits will

Resident, financial advisor named to Forbes list

Dominic Altobelli, a financial advisor with Merrill Lynch Wealth Management, was recently named to Forbes’ prestigious America’s Top Next-Gen Wealth Advisors list.

An Elmhurst resident and former baseball player for the Colorado Rockies, Altobelli has been with Merrill Lynch since 2012.

He holds a B.S in finance from the University of Illinois and has nearly 10 years of financial planning experience.

As Senior Vice President of the Scandariato Group, Dominic strives to build relationships with first- and second-generation business owners and executives.

Elmhurst Public Library events

Saturday, Dec. 18 from 10:30 – 11 a.m.

Saturday Stories [In-person] Enjoy stories, music, and movement, just right for families to share together.

In-person event. Registration required. elmlib.org/events.

Monday, Dec. 20 from 7-8:30 p.m.

Ciao Italia! [Hybrid] Interested in the language and customs of Italy? Improve your Italian language skills (all skill levels welcome) while exploring a different Italian city each month.

Hybrid event. Registration required. elmlib.org/events.

Tuesday, Dec. 21 from 1-3 p.m.

Bridge & Pinochle Club [In-person] Enjoy an afternoon of card games every week. Prior experience is required.

No registration required. elmlib. org/events.

Wednesday, Dec. 22 from 10 a.m.-1 p.m.

American Mah Jongg: Open Play [In-person] Gather every Wednesday for American Mah Jongg, a game of skill, strategy, calculation, and a certain amount of chance and luck.

In-person event. No registration required.

For more information about any of the above programs, call (630) 2798696 or visit elmlib.org/events.

Da Best.

Meet “Money Mike” Fogarty and “Dollar Bill” Ryan. They’re the best commercial loan officers on the field. Fogarty and Ryan are so good, they go to lunch incognito just for a little privacy.

You’ll find Mike and Bill at our new Lakeside Bank Oakbrook Terrace. To put points on the board, your commercial loan needs Mike or Bill on the team. Call or stop by, today!

Mike Fogarty VP, Commercial Loan Officer Lakeside Since 2014 mfogarty@lakesidebank.com 312-909-2032

Good pension news doesn’t alleviate underlying financial pressures, new report states

By Jerry Nowicki CAPITOL NEWS ILLINOIS

The state saw its unfunded pension liability decrease in fiscal year 2021 for the first time in four years, due in large part to investment returns exceeding 20 percent, according to a new report from the Commission on Government Forecasting and Accountability.

Measuring by the current-day values of the pension fund assets, unfunded liabilities—or the amount of debt the state pension funds owe that they can’t afford to pay—dropped by nearly 10 percent, to $130 billion in FY 2021 from $144 billion in the previous fiscal year. That put the state’s five pension funds at 46.5 percent funded, up from 39 percent the

previous year.

It’s the best funding ratio since 2008 and only the third decrease to unfunded liabilities in the last 15 years, the last occurring in FY 2017 at 0.5 percent, the other in FY 2011 at 2.9 percent. Otherwise, unfunded liabilities have risen annually from $42.2 billion in 2007.

But the report also noted that not much has changed to alleviate the underlying financial pressures that have caused unfunded liabilities to triple since the financial crisis of 2007-2008, meaning the good financial news was more anomaly than trend.

The returns of 22.9-25.2 percent

See PENSION, Page 17

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Friday, Dec. 17 from 2-4 p.m.

Friday Features: White Christmas Enjoy an afternoon at the movies.

No registration required. Find each week’s featured film at elmlib.org/ friday.

12 • Thursday, Dec. 16, 2021 - The Elmhurst Independent

!

ING ER FF O ST FIR

518 S. Oakland, Villa Park

518 S. Oakland, Villa Park

This impeccably maintained property in beautiful south Villa Park sits on a 251 ft deep lot & offers 3 beds & 1.5 baths. An open main floor includes a spacious, updated kitchen opening to the dining room leading to the spacious living room w/ $310,000 OPEN HOUSE SUNDAY 1-3PM

This impeccably maintained property in beautiful south Villa Park sits on a 251 ft deep lot & offers 3 beds & 1.5 baths. An open main floor includes a spacious, updated kitchen opening to the dining room leading to the spacious living room w/ hardwood floors. Nearby is a convenient 1/2 bath & 3rd bedroom/home office. Upstairs boasts 2 large bedrooms w/ hardwood floors, a walk-in linen closet & updated full bath. The partially finished basement (beaded walls, built-in shelves & bar) provides ample storage & another living space. Outside is a large 2-car garage, deck, & huge backyard w/ zipline for kids to enjoy. $310,000

Emery Manor Ranch

Emery Manor Ranch

Updated 2 bedroom / 1 bath Emery Manor ranch. Freshly painted, refinished hardwood floors, remodeled bathroom, brand new kitchen appliances and washer/dryer, detached 1.5 car garage, with deck off back. Everything on one level! Walk

Updated 2 bedroom / 1 bath Emery Manor ranch.

Freshly painted, refinished hardwood floors, remodeled bathroom, brand new kitchen appliances and washer/dryer, detached 1.5 car garage, with deck off back.

Everything on one level! Walk to town, Emerson Elementary and 2 blocks to Berens Park. $295,000

$295,000

New 2-Story Downtown Lombard

Meticulously maintained, newer 2-story home in the heart of Lombard. You’re welcomed in with an impressive 2-story foyer with hardwood floors throughout. The light and bright first floor checks all the boxes - separate living and dining rooms, office/ $695,000

New 2-Story Downtown Lombard Meticulously maintained, newer 2-story home in the heart of Lombard. You’re welcomed in with an impressive 2-story foyer with hardwood floors throughout. The light and bright first floor checks all the boxes separate living and dining rooms, office/in-law suite adjacent to a full bath, walk-in pantry, chef’s kitchen with 2-tier granite island, tons of cabinetry, eating area and open to family with floor to ceiling fireplace - all overlooking huge, fenced yard with mature landscaping. 5 bed up 2nd floor with 3 full baths, laundry room, and large primary suite with huge WIC and spa bath with separate tub and walk-in shower w/bench.

Deep pour, unfinished basement with roughed in plumbing is ready for your finishing ideas. 3 car attached garage, back deck for entertaining off kitchen, dual zone HVAC, & central vac. Minutes to the IL Prairie Path, Metra station, new library and downtown Lombard shops and restaurants/bars. Great highway access. You will not be disappointed! $695,000

An Entertainer’s Dream Home!

Prepare to be impressed by this McGovern-built Modern Farmhouse in the center of town. Better than new and lightly lived in by two previous short-term corporate relocation owners. A covered paver brick front patio welcomes you home $1,549,900

An Entertainer’s Dream Home!

408972

Prepare to be impressed by this McGovern-built Modern Farmhouse in the center of town. Better than new and lightly lived in by two previous short-term corporate relocation owners. A covered paver brick front patio welcomes you home every day. The first floor offers gracious 10 ft first floor ceilings, impressive millwork & ceiling detail, pristine hardwood floors, 1st floor office, powder room, large mudroom with cubbies/bench and sink, formal dining room, white chef’s kitchen with SS Thermador appliances, large island and eating area, butler’s pantry, and spacious family room with built-ins & gas fireplace. The 2nd floor offers 4 large bedrooms, 3 full spa-like bathrooms with tile work and cabinets, huge laundry room with tons of custom cabinets. $1,549,900

CHECK OUT OUR NEW WEBSITE: http://PrairiePathRealtors.com/

The Elmhurst Independent - Thursday, Dec. 16, 2021 • 13

Wise Investment Builders

Work with this fresh new plan or build to suit. Covered outdoor space off family room and kitchen eating area, very open, 1st floor study, 2.5 car heated garage, 4 large beds up with luxurious master suite with dual WIC’s and spa bath, and $1,375,000

Wise Investment Builders Work with this fresh new plan or build to suit. Covered outdoor space off family room and kitchen eating area, very open, 1st floor study, 2.5 car heated garage, 4 large beds up with luxurious master suite with dual WIC’s and spa bath, and finished basement with guest suite with full bath, rec room, wet bar and flex room. Walk to new Lincoln school, the IL Prairie Path, Pioneer & Ben Allison Parks, and the hip Spring Road Business District. Rare opportunity to work with this quality of a builder from Day 1 and make it your own! $1,375,000

Berens Park

Set for delivery end of Spring 2022, this new luxury home being built by a well-respected, long-time Elmhurst builder working alongside an interior designer set to help pick out all of your finishes & fixtures. Offering 5,000 sf of finished living $1,150,000

Berens Park Set for delivery end of Spring 2022, this new luxury home being built by a well-respected, long-time Elmhurst builder working alongside an interior designer set to help pick out all of your finishes & fixtures. Offering 5,000 sf of finished living space with its fully finished basement - bedroom, full bath, rec room, & custom bar with island. 10 ft first floor ceilings welcome you to this impressive home with HWF’s & extensive trim & ceiling detail throughout, 5 beds, 4.5 baths, a 3 car garage, custom kitchen w/ huge island, high-end SS appliances (Wolf & Sub-Zero) & eating area open to family room w/ fireplace, master suite w/ spa bath, designer plumbing/lighting fixtures, surround sound + more! All this within walking distance to Berens Park, Emerson Elementary, the Metra station and Elmhurst’s City Centre. Rare chance to customize everything if you act now! $1,150,000

Free standing building located just north of North Avenue, walking distance to downtown Elmhurst. 3,625 square feet perfect for daycare, medical/dental, sales, accounting, or legal. Fully wet sprinklered, 4 handicapped bathrooms, full

FOR SALE OR LEASE

Free standing building located just north of North Avenue, walking distance to downtown Elmhurst. 3,625 square feet perfect for daycare, medical/dental, sales, accounting, or legal. Fully wet sprinklered, 4 handicapped bathrooms, full kitchen, and 7 perimeter private offices, large 16 car private parking lot $799,900 or $16 per sf on lease. Call Mickey (630) 494-0178

Medical Office Building

Medical Office Building

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14 • Thursday, Dec. 16, 2021 - The Elmhurst Independent

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16 • Thursday, Dec. 16, 2021 - The Elmhurst Independent

The Elmhurst Independent

Sports Dec. 16, 2021 • 16

York girls bowling team breaks decade-plus-old conference record

Bolden’s thrilling strike gives Dukes Joliet West invitational team title by a single pin

By Mike Miazga CORRESPONDENT

In addition to the wins continuing to pile up, now the records are starting to fall for the York girls bowling team.

The Dukes broke the West Suburban Conference record for team series in a recent win against Addison Trail.

York scored a 3,679-3,474 victory over Addison Trail. The 3,679 broke Leyden’s 3,607 record that had stood since the 2008-2009 season.

The Dukes now own five of the top seven team series in conference history. York’s 2020-2021 team holds the third-, fourth- and fifth-highest team series in conference history (3,528, 3,509 and 3,503).

York’s 2019-2020 team has the seventh-highest total at 3,476.

York led Addison Trail by 449 pins after the first game. The Dukes rolled games of 1,241, 1,262 and 1,176 in the contest.

Senior Kat Svehla led the way with a 707 series, which included games of 255, 245 and 207 —her first 700 series, York coach Katie Turnbull noted.

JJ Bolden added a 691 series with high games of 269 and 223. Michaela Tully rolled a 600 series with high games of 233 and 201. Madeline Mountcastle added a 599 with high games of 226 and 203. Kara Jensen rolled a 545 (195 high game) and Abby Nacyk had a 537 (185 high game). It was Tully’s first career 600 series.

York’s multi-year undefeated streak at the JV level continued with a 2,613-1,767 win over Addison Trail. Victoria Biery led the Dukes

with a 542 series, including a 199 high game. Emily Carrasco had a 508 series and a high game of 188.

Valerie Weinshenker had a 473 series with a 195 high game.

York also won the Joliet West invitational by a single pin over Minooka. The event was a Baker-bowling elimination bracket tournament.

York bowled for total pinfall in the morning for its spot in the elimination bracket and then bowled a bestof-5 contest in head-to-head competition against three teams in the afternoon.

York opened against Willowbrook.

The Warriors won two of the first three games before York won the final two to advance to the semifinals.

There, the Dukes downed Lincoln-Way East, which set up the finale against Minooka. York won the first game, while Minooka took the second game. York won the third and Minooka came back to take the fourth game.

In the final fifth game, Minooka’s anchor bowler opened in the 10th frame for a final game of 172.

Bolden, York’s anchor, picked up her first spare to put York at 163. Turnbull noted Bolden needed to strike to win the tournament — which she did.

“It was a very exciting finish, but throughout the entire day the whole team bowled together as one,” Turnbull added. “With Baker bowling, there is a big emphasis on closing frames and picking up spares. It was a really great experience for the team as a whole. They truly bowled as one the entire day and came together as a team. The exciting ending was just the cherry on top.”

SUBMITTED PHOTO Elmhurst Independent

The York girls bowling team won the Joliet West invitational team title by a single pin. In the best-of-5 afternoon elimination format, York defeated Willowbrook and Lincoln-Way East and then won the title by defeating Minooka in the fifth game on a JJ Bolden strike. Bolden’s strike gave the Dukes the title by one pin. York also recently set the West Suburban Conference record for highest team series with a 3,679, breaking a record that had stood for more than a decade.

Timothy Christian girls basketball team looks to regroup Trojans playing without injured standout Roland

By Mike Miazga CORRESPONDENT

The Timothy Christian girls basketball team dropped to 4-4 overall after a pair of recent losses to Wheaton St. Francis and Chicago Christian.

The Trojans have been playing without standout 6-foot-1-inch junior center Grace Roland, who was injured in the team’s Thanksgiving tournament. Timothy Christian coach Jill Groenewold said she’s hopeful Rowland will return shortly.

“Probably the biggest thing now with Grace being out is trying to make up her 18 points and 10 rebounds per-game total, so to speak,” she said. “She’s been out two weeks

and we’ve had a little bit of a hard time adjusting and filling that spot.

The kids are doing a good job of stepping up and doing the best they can, but that’s a lot of points and a lot of rebounds to make up per game.”

Roland had scored in double digits in four of the first five games she played prior to being injured and started the season with three double-doubles (double figures in scoring and rebounds). Roland’s 32-minute-adjusted totals equate to a 21-point, 12-rebound output per game for the Trojans.

Timothy lost 51-30 to St. Francis in a game that was tied 10-10 after the first quarter. “St. Francis is a pretty solid team,” Groenewold said. “They

push the ball pretty well, board pretty well and have good outside shooters. They are a fundamentally sound team.”

Mili Martens and Maddie Drye played well in the St. Francis game, Groenewold noted. Martens finished the contest with nine points, eight rebounds and three steals, while Drye had seven points.

“Milli had a good game and Maddie Drye has been very consistent.”

The Trojans lost 28-23 to Chicago Christian, in a low-scoring affair.

“We struggled offensively,” Groenewold said. “We scored four points in the entire second half. Chicago Christian fast-breaked a little on us and we didn’t get back. When you

don’t get back on defense, bad things happen.”

Senior Cailey Schurrman, who had five points in the St. Francis loss, had eight points against Chicago Christian. “She played well at center,” said Groenewold of Schurrman.

Ella VanderMolen also had a strong game on defense. “Cailey and Ella had two consistent efforts,” Groenewold.

Drye had 11 rebounds, three assists and two steals against Chicago Christian. VanderMolen had six rebounds, as did Julia Voss. Martens had five rebounds.

Timothy plays at Aurora Central Catholic tonight and heads to Melrose Park to face Walther Christian

Saturday. Timothy, who will play in the Lisle Christmas tournament, does not return to the Ward Athletic Center on campus until after the new year.

“We have good kids who work hard,” said Groenewold. “We have to make some tough adjustments and we are still figuring things out together.

With Grace out, she had been playing very consistently. We are trying to fill that gap. Maddie moved to more of a forward and others are stepping into perimeter roles. We are struggling to re-identify ourselves right now and we’re still figuring things out.

The good thing is we don’t hang our heads. The kids come right back and give it their best effort and I applaud that.”

sports

The Elmhurst Independent - Thursday, Dec. 16, 2021 • 17

Baldridge and Blass combine for 52 points in York girls basketball win over Proviso West The Elmhurst Independent - Thursday, July 16, 2020 • 19

Dukes off to strong 7-2 start

By Mike Miazga CORRESPONDENT

The York girls basketball team took an eight-point lead into halftime of its recent West Suburban Conference Silver Division game against Proviso West.

And then it blew the hinges off the doors. The Dukes outscored Proviso 34-11 in the third quarter on their way to a 75-43 conference win.

Junior Lizzie Baldridge led the way with 27 points, while junior Mariann Blass was right behind her with 25 points. “We played well,” York coach Brandon Collings said.

“Our press gave the problems. We had a lot of steals, and we shot the

• GOP

ball well.”

York connected on nine 3-pointers in the game to move to 7-2 overall and 3-1 in WSC Silver play.

“In that third quarter we started rolling, got steals and hit open shots,” Collings noted. “Our 3/4-court press caused problems, led to easy steals and easy buckets in transition.”

Baldridge scored 14 points in the third quarter, while Blass had 12 points.

Each made two 3-pointers in the stanza. “Lizzie and Mariann took over in the third quarter and put the game out of reach,” Collings said.

The Proviso win came after the Dukes dropped a 43-31 WSC Silver contest to Downers Grove North.

“Downers had a good start,” Collings said. “They are a tough team.

They have a lot of seniors and a lot of experience. When you get down against them, they don’t give you

(Continued from page 8)

moolah to win the top state office in 2018. The state GOP lacks two nickels to rub together. So, all political junkie eyes are on billionaire Ken Griffin, who has more money than even Croesus, and who has declared he will spend it to beat the guv.

But Griffin’s political people have found no candidate as yet. I am told Griffin prefers newcomers to old politicians.

I think the ideal GOP candidate would be a credible, law-and-order prosecutor (think Jim Thompson in the 1970s), because law and order will be a leading issue in 2022. Suburbanites are scared witless by the violence in the city.

Lacking such, or a consolidation of Sullivan, Schimpf, Rabine into one candidacy, Bailey wins the primary, at least as of right now. But in the November general election, Bailey would likely be the darling of downBucolo a pitch state,Anthony while falling flat infires the ’burbs, game.an enthusiastic 40 percent of winning the total vote.

So, a possible doofus at the top, with Bailey just below, could spell disaster for other races down the long ballot, because of depressed GOP turnout. For example, I have an interest in two important Illinois Supreme Court races, located in mostly suburban districts. But voters do not go to the polls, or not, because of unknown Supreme Court candidates.

Thus, these competitive races, found at the very bottom of the ticket, could be determined at the top of the ballot.

Illinois GOP leaders should get on their knees to top-drawer citizens who might be willing, out of a sense of noblesse oblige, to take on a likely losing U.S. Senate race, and hope that a candidate who can appeal in the suburbs will emerge from the guberCHRIS FOX PHOTO Elmhurst Independent natorial primary.

Jim Nowlan is a former state legislator and aide to three Illinois goverduring recent U12 baseball nors. A aretired professor of American politics, he writes a newspaper column on Understanding Illinois.

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YORK HIGH SCHOOL PLAYER OF THE WEEK YORK HIGH SCHOOL PLAYER OF THE WEEK LIZZIE BALDRIDGE GIGI BARR MARIANN BLASS YORK GIRLS VOLLEYBALL YORK GIRLS BASKETBALL Barr was scored the recipient 2019-2020 York with Val 25 Cothern Baldridge 27 pointsof andthe Blass was right behind points, junior of the year over win the helpingfemale the Yorkathlete girls basketball team award. record a Barr 75-43went conference against Proviso West.

York used a 34-11 third quarter run to put the 1,000-career kill threshold last fall for the Dukes girls volleygame away. The two combined for 26 points in the pivotal quarter. ball team and still has a season to add to that total.

enough possessions to get back. They are methodical with their possessions.

Even though we lost, there were a lot of positives. We saw there are a lot of areas we need to get better at and we’ll work on those.”

In the Proviso West game, York was missing three of its top eight players.

Collings said in addition to Baldridge and Blass’ scoring exploits, the Dukes have been receiving strong play of late from the likes of sophomore guard Stella Kohl, sophomore guard Hannah Meyers

and guard Erin Powers, the lone senior on the York roster this season.

“Stella has played very well,” Collings said. “She has been solid defensively. Hannah has played very well. She had 10 points against Proviso West.

Erin Powers led us in scoring against Downers North. We are getting scoring output from different girls each game.”

York played Lyons Township earlier this week in another big early-season WSC Silver game. Lyons came into that game undefeated in conference.

The Dukes also play Lake Park this week in non-conference action before turning their attention to the Montini tournament where they will open play against Burlington Central.

“With our top eight girls, we have a senior, three juniors, three sophomores and a freshman,” Collings noted.

“We faced Downers Grove North and they are experienced and tough and don’t make many mistakes. Our inexperience showed a little bit. We’ll continue to get better with the more experience we get.”

IDOC inmates continue to face commissary shortage

By Beth Hundsdorfer

CAPITOL NEWS ILLINOIS

To Illinois prisoners, commissary is more than candy bars, shaving cream and socks. It represents normalcy and choice.

“It’s everything to them,” said Melly Rios, whose husband is in Stateville Correctional Center serving 45 years for murder.

A recent report from the John Howard Association, a prison watchdog group, detailed widespread supply shortages at Illinois Department of Corrections prison commissaries around the state. Soap, deodorant, detergent, writing materials, thermal shirts, socks, underwear and canned meat and noodles are all in short supply.

“It’s not like luxury items like candy bars or the hot new Christmas gift.

• Pension

These commissaries provide items that are basic necessities,” said Alan Mills, executive director of the Uptown People’s Law Center. Mills has litigated prisoner civil rights cases for more than 40 years.

An IDOC spokesperson wrote in an email that COVID-19 has impacted global supply chains, leading to shortages. Essential raw materials are not making it to distribution centers and there is a shortage of workers in manufacturing centers and logistic companies, she wrote.

But the John Howard report released Dec. 6 points to a new vendor and a contentious bidding process. In June 2021, Keefe Group was awarded the contract for the entire IDOC system.

The contract award was contested by another vendor that was not awarded the contract. IDOC then contracted

on an emergency basis with Keefe to provide items.

Jennifer Vollen-Katz, the executive director for the John Howard Association, believes both things are contributing to the shortages.

“I think that it’s a combination of those things,” Vollen-Katz said. “But it’s confounding to me why it has taken so long to resolve.”

IDOC received approval and entered into five emergency contracts with vendors, according to an IDOC spokesperson. The department expects that the expanded contracts and more available avenues for purchasing will allow for the restocking of prison commissaries.

Two weeks ago, IDOC distributed bags of food and hygiene items, toothpaste and brushes, into care packages to all inmates.

(Continued from page 11)

for FY 2021, which ended June 30, far exceeded the anticipated 6.5 percent to 7 percent returns, according to the report.

Aside from the good investment news, the report was substantially similar to countless other pension reports in recent years, particularly because it once again called on the state to revamp the much-maligned 1994 “Edgar Ramp” plan for paying down pension debt.

That’s the name commonly used to refer to Public Act 88-0593, or the state’s 50-year plan to bring the its five pension funds to 90 percent funded by 2045.

The actual target for that ramp should be a 100 percent-funded pension system within the next 25 years or preferably sooner, according to a letter attached to the COGFA report from its actuary, Segal Consulting.

The letter also faulted the Edgar Ramp for “backloading” pension payments, providing for smaller contributions in the early years leading to the current reality which sees 20 percent of the state’s discretionary spending going to pension payments each year. It also highlighted other times the pension system was shortchanged, including during the tenure of former Gov. Rod Blagojevich.

Only after the target is increased to 100 percent, the report noted, would the state begin to see sustained reductions to its unfunded pension liabilities. “(T)he funding plan under (Public Act) 88-0593 produces employer (State) contributions that are actuarially insufficient, meaning if all other actuarial assumptions are met, unfunded liabilities will still increase

due to the State contributing an amount that is not sufficient to stop the growth in the unfunded liability,” according to the report.

But increasing pension payments is easier said than done, Alexis Sturm, director of the Governor’s Office of Management and Budget, said in a letter accompanying the report.

She was unavailable for a phone call Thursday, but her letter to COGFA’s co-chairs said consideration of changes to the current 90 percent target “needs to be reviewed carefully within the context of the impact on the state’s budget.”

The $8.6 billion pension payment in FY 2021 was 20 percent of the state’s $42.9 billion General Revenue Fund budget, and pensions are routinely the state’s largest GRF expense outside of K-12 education. In fiscal year 2022, COGFA estimated the GRF payment at $9.4 billion, or over 21 percent of the operating budget.

FY 2023’s Edgar Ramp-mandated GRF payment is estimated at more than $9.6 billion, or nearly $10.8 billion including other state funds.

But, according to the report, if the state wants to contribute at a rate approved by actuaries, it will need to contribute nearly $14.9 billion in FY 2023, which begins July 1, or 38 percent higher than what is provided for via the Edgar Ramp.

“An increase to the goal would result in higher payments, but eventually lead to a reduction in the unfunded liabilities in the systems,” Sturm wrote. “Given the current fiscal pressures facing the state, this too is inadvisable to consider until Illinois can

eliminate the unpaid bill backlog, borrowings undertaken to pay off the debts remaining from the budget impasse and the COVID-driven recession and address the underlying structural deficit.”

The backlog currently sits at about $4.8 billion, according to the website maintained by Illinois Comptroller Susana Mendoza, who said in a public appearance this week that the oldest unpaid voucher was 21 days old.

Still, the 90 percent goal, Sturm said, is “reasonable and achievable,” given the circumstances. Gov. JB Pritzker’s administration has fully funded the pension system at Edgar Ramp levels in each of his first three years, although he briefly considered lowering the payment in his first year before quickly dropping the plan.

In their letter to COGFA’s director, leaders at the state’s “big three” pension funds—the State Universities Retirement System, State Employees’ Retirement System and Teachers’ Retirement System—all also endorsed the 100 percent funding target and shorter ramps to full funding.

“Earlier funding, in addition to a targeted funding ratio of 100 percent, would make the retirement systems more secure and would substantially reduce financing costs due to interest accruing on the unfunded liability, the primary driver of the state contribution requirements,” the leaders of the pension systems wrote.

The report also noted that a pension buyout program initiated in 2018 and extended for three years by the General Assembly under Pritzker created a $213 million reduction in unfunded liability for FY 2021.

18 • Thursday, Dec. 16, 2021 - The Elmhurst Independent

What happened to this year’s ice sculptures?

If you were at the Spring Road Sleigh Rides and Ice Sculpture event on Saturday, Dec. 11 at some time between 11 a.m. and 2 p.m., you may have wondered where the ice sculptures were. Many people were wondering, but the Independent found out the reason.

Due to the high wind conditions, the ice sculptures were not dropped off in front of the businesses until after 4 p.m. because there was concern the ice sculptures would blow over.

It’s the first time in nine years that the Spring Road Business Association has had the event without the ice sculptures present until later.

Some years they start melting because it’s warm, but never has there been none at the event. When you take a stroll down Spring Road, don’t miss the spine sculpture outside of Adapt Chiropractic; the cupcake sculpture in front of Lezza’s Bakery; the angel at Cuvee Cellars and many others. This year, the carvers even put the ice sculptures on the ground (rather than a platform as usual) to make sure the wind wouldn’t knock them down.

The bottom line is, they were not there until late Saturday, but they are there now, assuming the cold weather holds.

BRENDA GARCIA PHOTOS Elmhurst Independent

Above: Eric Weech and his wife, owner of Alan Energy Services Air Conditioning & Heating Company, join Santa and National Honors Society student volunteers from York High School who helped out the Spring Road Business Association on Saturday, Dec. 11. They include (alphabetical, not necessarily as pictured): Olivia Buscemi, Ava Eisa, Erin Lindgren and Anna Lyons.

(Left): This icy iced cupcake is just one of the sculptures that can now be seen on Spring Road (assuming the cold weather remains) from the Sleigh Rides and Ice Sculpture event held Saturday, Dec. 11 by the Spring Road Business Association.

Say, aren’t you a little old

DEE LONGFELLOW PHOTOS Elmhurst Independent

More happy faces

These four young men are a little too old to sit on Santa’s lap, but that doesn’t mean they couldn’t gather around and have a laugh for the holiday season. Santa came to Spring Road for the annual These little girls had a good time meeting Santa at the Spring Sleigh Ride and Ice Sculpture event on Saturday, Dec. 11.

Road Sleigh Ride and Ice Sculpture event on Saturday, Dec. 11.

The Elmhurst Independent - Thursday, Dec. 16, 2021 • 19

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20 • Thursday, Dec. 16, 2021 - The Elmhurst Independent

Christmas Worship Christmas Eve Family Worship Service Please join us to celebrate the birth of Jesus in story and song

Visitation Parish 779 S. York Street Elmhurst, IL 60126 630-834-6700

Christmas Eve

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Redeemer Evangelical Lutheran Church of Elmhurst Please join us for worship!

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232 South York Street (Corner of York and Church) (630) 834‐2440 umcelmhurst.org All are welcome.

St. Timothy Evangelical Lutheran Church 547 N. Main St. Lombard, IL 60148 (630) 627-2435

COME ONE COME ALL!

Sundays: 9am Adult Education and Sunday School 10am Traditional Divine Service Wednesday Evening Advent Services: December 22 at 7pm Christmas Eve Services: December 24 at 4pm and 11pm Christmas Day Service: December 25 at 10am

Friday, December 24 Christmas Eve Worship Services at:

COME CELEBRATE THE CHRISTMAS GIFT OF THE SAVIOR Family Christmas Service, December 19 at 10:15am

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Friday, December 31 - 6:00pm Vigil Saturday, January 1 - 9:00am

409537

Historic

123 E. St. Charles Road, Elmhurst, IL 60126 630/834-1411 www.RedeemerLCMS.com FB/RedeemerOfElmhurst

Christmas Day

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4:00 pm - Family Service 8:00 pm and 11:00 pm Candlelight Worship with Holy Communion

Friday, December 24, 2021 5:00 p.m.

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314 W. Vallette Street Elmhurst, IL 60126 630.832.8457 (Office)

315 E. St. Charles Rd., Elmhurst www.bethel-ucc.org 630-279-4040

The Elmhurst Independent - Thursday, Dec. 16, 2021 • 21

Services Directory Be a part of the Worship Services Directory

St.300Alexander Parish S Cornell Avenue, Villa Park, IL 630-833-7730 www.stalexanderparish.org

Confessions: Tuesdays at 5:00pm (English and Spanish) Christmas Eve Masses: 4:30pm, 6:30pm Spanish, and 12:00 Midnight Christmas Day Masses: 8:30am and 10:30am

Immaculate Conception Church 134 Arthur St., Elmhurst, IL 630 530-8515 www.icelmhurst.org

Christmas Eve Masses

3:00 pm Church, Sacred Heart Chapel & Plunkett Hall 3:30 pm Elmhurst University, Hammerschmidt Chapel

for as low as $15 per week Call...Brenda at 630-834-4450 409598

5:00 pm Church and Sacred Heart Chapel

333900

10:30 pm Sacred Heart Chapel

Christmas Day Masses 7:30 am Church

9:00 & 11:30 am Sacred Heart Chapel

Solemnity of Mary, Mother of God Masses

December 31 4:30 pm Sacred Heart Chapel January 1 7:30 am, 9:00 & 11:30 am Church Come and Celebrate the Birth of Christ with Us! 490597

409536

409602

Jesus is the Reason for the Season

22 • Thursday, Dec. 16, 2021 - The Elmhurst Independent

The Moreci Family Invites You to Experience

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

Stadium Pizza Carry-Out & Delivery Only

483 SPRING ROAD ELMHURST Reservations 630.279-8486 Pizzeria 630.279.8474 www.robertosristorante.com

Enjoy Our Outdoor Dining Area

Let our Family cater to your Family!!

Call for Details.

Call us for Carry Out or Delivery Service

Roberto’s Pizzeria

Established in 1962 FAST DELIVERY AND CARRY OUT SERVICE

Where did he go?

DOWNLOAD THE ROBERTO’S APP Order online and receive Royalty points

483 SPRING ROAD, ELMHURST • 630-279-8474 • www.robertosristorante.com Open 7 Days A Week M-Th. 11am-10pm • Fri. 11am-11pm • Sat. 12pm-11pm • Sun. 12pm-10pm

1 OFF

$ 00

On Full Slab of Ribs

On 14”, 16” or 18” Pizza

with $15 Purchase or More

Roberto’s Ristorante & Pizzeria

Roberto’s Ristorante & Pizzeria

Roberto’s Ristorante & Pizzeria

Pick Up or Delivery Only One Coupon Per Visit Please Mention Coupon When Ordering Not Valid In Dining Room Expires Dec. 23, 2021

Pick Up or Delivery Only One Coupon Per Visit Please Mention Coupon When Ordering Not Valid In Dining Room Expires Dec. 23, 2021

1 OFF

$ 00

FREE

2 Liter of Soda

Pick Up or Delivery Only One Coupon Per Visit Please Mention Coupon When Ordering Not Valid In Dining Room Expires Dec. 23, 2021

On 14”, 16” or 18” Pizza Pick Up or Delivery Only One Coupon Per Visit Please Mention Coupon When Ordering Not Valid In Dining Room Expires Dec. 23, 2021

Roberto’s Ristorante & Pizzeria

408970

1 OFF

$ 50

DEE LONGFELLOW PHOTOS Elmhurst Independent

(Above): This little boy’s face seems to have all but disappeared inside his cup of hot chocolate, served by volunteers from York High School’s National Merit Scholars. There were cookies as well.

(Left): This little girl was a bit hesitant about meeting that jolly fellow in the red suit on Saturday, Dec. 11 at the Spring Road Sleigh Ride and Ice Sculpture event. He won her over when he produced a candy cane.

CELEBRATE THE SEASON IN ELMHURST. OVER 100 SHOPS & RESTAURANTS. HOLIDAY EVENTS FOR EVERYONE!

FREE HOLLY TROLLEY SERVICE Saturday through December 18th • 10 a.m. - 10 p.m.

For more information visit

ExploreElmhurst.com

408745

Ride

The Elmhurst Independent - Thursday, Dec. 16, 2021 • 23

HERE FOR WHEN YOUR MEGA GRANDE FEELS LIKE A HEART ATTACK. And everything else.

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When all those cold brews finally catch up with you, we’re here with providers in 30 specialties from internal medicine to neurology. Here it’s personal. Because we get to know you. Find your perfect doctor at EEHealth.org/HereForIt

24 • Thursday, Dec. 16, 2021 - The Elmhurst Independent

FEMA SUPPORTS FAMILIES WHO LOST A LOVED ONE TO COVID-19 The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) is offering qualified families assistance with funeral expenses incurred after January 20, 2020, due to the death of a loved one from COVID-19.

VISIT FEMA FOR FULL DETAILS Visit the FEMA website for complete information about eligibility requirements, documentation you will be required to provide as part of your application, and how to start the application process.

WWW.FEMA.GOV/DISASTERS/CORONAVIRUS/ ECONOMIC/FUNERAL-ASSISTANCE

435 North York Street Elmhurst, Illinois www.PedersenRyberg.com info@pedersenryberg.com 630-834-1133

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