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School Board addresses controversial video, accusation of bullying

Investigation by police, D205 clarifies incident; York students release statement

By Dee Longfellow FOR THE ELMHURST INDEPENDENT

The Elmhurst Community Unit School District 205 Board began its regular meeting on Tuesday, Dec. 13 with Board president Kara Caforio reading a statement regarding the well-publicized video that shows a York student allegedly being bullied and pushed to the floor in a school bathroom.

“As a board of education, we are deeply disturbed and heartbroken by what was seen on the video shared on social media of an incident last week in York High School’s bathroom involving a student with a disability,” said Caforio. “Bullying or violence of any kind will not be tolerated in Elmhurst District 205, and any student that chooses to engage in these behaviors will face consequences for their actions. The administration is equally appalled by the incident and has been working tirelessly to conduct a thorough investigation to ensure a full understanding of all details, including the moments before and after what is seen on the video.”

Caforio said that the privacy of the district’s students must be respected, and that the board could not divulge all of the information that the public may desire. She said that on the af-

ECPA Carolers spread holiday cheer

direction

Marianetti,

the entertainment venue planned for downtown Elmhurst. The students performed three songs at each location to the delight of many residents and their neighbors. ECPA is a not-for-profit 501(c)3 organization dedicated to building a center for theater, music, dance and comedy in downtown Elmhurst. For information on the ECPA and its fundraising efforts and events, visit ecpa-elmhurst.org.

Elmhurst Garden Club celebrates the holiday season

The Elmhurst Garden Club (EGC) began the holiday season by creating and assembling more than 60 holiday floral centerpiece arrangements over the weekend of Dec. 3 and 4 at the Ray Graham Elmhurst Community Learning Center greenhouse.

On Monday, Dec. 5, the club held their annual catered Holiday Luncheon at the Wilder Mansion where the holiday centerpieces were available for sale along with a raffle for more than 20 large gifts baskets loaded with a wide range of goodies, gift cards, odds-and-ends, and garden collectibles.

On Wednesday, Dec. 7, a number

of EGC members spent the morning decorating the Elmhurst Public Library for the holidays. EGC first began their holiday decorating for the EPL in the early 1940s. The tradition that first started at the original library (now the Wilder Mansion) with seasonal floral displays has expanded to holiday trim and eight decorated holiday trees throughout the library. The transformation of the library for the holidays is a great outlet for creative expression and civic beautification, both objectives of the mission of the Elmhurst Garden Club.

Designs & Exhibits chair Louellen Rossi declared that decorating the li-

brary, “One of the most fun EGC activities and one of us always brings tasty treats to enjoy afterwards.”

Next

meeting Jan. 9

The next meeting of the EGC will be held on Monday, Jan. 9, 2023 at the Wilder Mansion beginning at 10:30 a.m. followed by a formal presentation, “Fighting Climate Change in Your Backyard” by Mike Nowak at 11:15 a.m. Long-time popular speaker on the garden club circuit, Nowak is celebrating 25 years talking about gardening, the environment and green living. Before going “strictly Internet,” Mike hosted programs on

WGN Radio, WCPT 820AM, Que4 Radio, and WCGO 1590 AM. For two seasons, he was co-host of the local gardening and food TV program Dig In Chicago. His book “Attack of the Killer Asparagus and Other Lessons Not Learned in the Garden” was published in 2014.

Elmhurst Garden Club is open to anyone interested in gardening, ecology, and floral design. The club

has more than 120 members. Annual dues are $35. Meetings are held on the first Monday of the month. Each month a formal program on some facet of gardening, floral design, ecology, conservation, and environmental concerns are presented. These programs are free and open to the public.

For more information, visit elmhurstgardenclub.org

Seasons Greetings

We wish you and loved ones the best in health, love, peace and prosperity always. We try to live our lives on the principles of Good Thoughts, Good Words followed by Good, beneficial deeds.

We get thousands of thoughts in a day, good and not so good. What we tell ourselves about those thoughts and how we process them within ourselves is the freedom of choice we have. Every freedom we have comes with a responsibility, so we have to develop that process and put that in action to fulfill that deed.

We try to incorporate that in our business also at Mehta Motors and My Car Wash. This has worked for us for the last forty years and we thank you for supporting all of us in promoting our work ethics.

We always have the choice and freedom to be who we want to be. Choices we make in life bring us to where we are today.

Forty years back our Mehta family was faced with the choice, do we give up our dreams or do we give up our principles? Seemed like a lose-lose situation at that time. We decided to stick to our principles and through the years we have built new dreams through that.

We learned that Hope is better than Fear.

In this coming year 2023 we hope and pray for good health for all. We have learned that nothing else matters without good health.

We thank you for being the job creators for all who work with us.

We have learned that we might look different, we might have different opinions, we might belong to different religions and beliefs, but the underlying force that sustains us and drives us, the life source is what binds us as one.

As

do every year,

Community Bank of Elmhurst

Est. 1993

When we recognize that, all else falls in line. Thank you for being part of our journey.

From all of us at Mehta Motors and My Car Wash 429915

CBE Presents: ‘HOLI-DAZE’ 2022!

Last year over the first 25 days of December, CBE unveiled a new window display at our City Centre location at 133 N. York Street. This year, all the displays will be back, and all on display at once, as we begin to celebrate the Holiday Season in Elmhurst for 2022.

When you find yourself in City Centre, stop by CBE and take a look at our displays. Most are lit and many have movement...All of them are special.

Make visiting CBE’s ‘Holi-Daze’ display one of your personal and family traditions. “Happy Holi-Daze” from CBE!

SUBMITTED PHOTO Elmhurst Independent

they

the members of the Elmhurst Garden Club came together to decorate the Elmhurst Public Library for the holiday season. Pictured are (from left): Eileen VanDeWalle, Sandra Biegel, Joanne Carlson, Diane Roubitchek, Cynthia Buerger, Marsha Pniewski, Jean Baldikoski, Louellen Rossi, Georgia Dolan and Jill Johnston. (Not pictured Donna Fredrickson and Joyce Murphy.)

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Statement from York students regarding the video incident and allegations of bullying

Editor’snote: This communique is a letter to the York High School community from a group at the school known as the York High School Student Leadership Team. The Independent presents the letter in its entirety.

Dear

members of our York community,

As students at York Community High School, we feel compelled to address the recent events and behavior that have occurred. We feel deeply disappointed in our peers and frustrated in this situation and want to share our point of view directly. We have spoken with different groups, staff, students, and administrators in order to implement direct solutions that promote belonging, equity, and acceptance in our school and district. In lieu of a walkout, many of us believe that the best way to go about this is to focus on it from the inside out. This problem must be tackled at the source and prevented from ever happening again by coming together as a school and educating one another. Regardless of who you are or what York means to you, we can all agree that our community is better than this and the latest news about us does not represent what it means to be a Duke. Our hope is that in reaching out and focusing on preventing the disrespect behind this problem at its roots, we can continue to create a plan to shift the narrative and show how important it is to us to be part of this school. Our staff and administrators have proven that they are committed to working with us and amplifying our voices. This issue is not about students vs. administration, or our image vs. the media, but rather all of us as a whole conquering this lack of respect, empathy, and kindness.

As the saying goes, “actions speak louder than words.” There have been a lot of words since these terrible actions have occurred. Now it’s time for us to turn those words into positive action. We as the students believe that long-lasting and productive outcomes can come from this experience. As students we plan on using this as an opportunity to better educate ourselves and others on being tolerant and inclusive on a day-to-day basis. Not only being tolerant and inclusive but also having the courage to stand up for what is right. It is time for our feelings of anger and disgust to evolve into the actions that will foster a better, kinder learning environment

• Bullying

(Continued from front page)

ternoon of Thursday, Dec. 8, the administrative team at York received a report of a possible bullying incident in a school bathroom related to a student with a disability. That student, who is a member of the school’s wrestling team, was reportedly pushed to the ground by a student who is not a member of the team. No students were injured.

Caforio said that significant school consequences were issued to students who were responsible for the reported bullying incident. She said that due to privacy laws, she was unable to share consequences issued to each student involved in the incident. She said the parents of the student who was pushed to the ground have declined a formal police investigation.

“To our wider Elmhurst community, while one incident hurts, and it hurts deeply, the outpouring of compassion in action from our student body at York High School has been nothing short of amazing,” noted Caforio. “We are so proud of our students for their outrage over this situation and their adamant and immediate response to make it clear to everyone that the actions of this small group do not represent the entire York student body.”

Public forum draws comments

One of the seven speakers during the meeting’s public-participation segment was a York senior and member of the school’s football and

for everyone. We want students to show up and show their support through events such as Special Olympics games, and we have made plans to fundraise in order to implement educational assemblies at both York and local middle schools in an effort to encourage compassion in our most critical years of development. We want students to take lessons from this scenario and not only apply them at school, but also the outside world. Our hope is that positive light can be seen in a dark situation, and that our student body can evolve from this to make us better both for the present and for our futures. This moment should be used to unite our community instead of divide it.

We are told every day that “This Is York.” We hold ourselves to high standards - we are spirited, kind, respectful, courageous young adults who should be proud of the school that we call home, and in no way does this incident represent or define who we strive to be. Through countless tragedies over the past few years that have put the health and safety of students at risk across the globe and disrupted the environment where we learn and grow, it is crucial now more than ever that we take charge and make change. It’s time for us to fully respect our education, our building, our surroundings, and most importantly, each other. We are fortunate to call ourselves a part of this cooperative and tenacious community, and it is our responsibility to hold ourselves and each other accountable to be the difference. For us, and for all of you, this occurrence hits close to home, because this is the place we call home. This place should feel familiar, safe, and supportive for every single one of us, never shameful, distressing, or dangerous. Anyone associated with York should be proud and honored to say so, and we collectively promise to continue these efforts even after this is truly a reality again. Don’t be afraid to ask questions and be open to self-improvement, development, and progress. Be the one to teach. Be the one to learn. Be the one to stand up. Let’s take this opportunity to open all our eyes to ways we can all be better, because we are better together.

Respectfully, YHS Student Leadership Team

County to conduct recounts

By Dee Longfellow FOR THE INDEPENDENT

On Friday, Dec. 16, the DuPage County Election Commission announced that it would conduct a discovery recount of certain precinct results from the Tuesday, Nov. 8 General Election. The recount was scheduled to take place on Tuesday, Dec. 20 in the auditorium of the Jack T. Knuepfer Administration Building at the Du Page County Complex in Wheaton.

The races subject to the recount are to include the DuPage County Board member in District 2 and the office of State Representative in Illinois House District 45.

The recount in the race for DuPage County Board in District 2 is to confirm the vote for the third representative. The official results reported thus far show Democrat Paula Deacon Garcia with 25,411 votes and 25,335 for Republican incumbent Sean T. Noonan, a difference of just 76 votes.

The race for State Representative in District 45 ended up with 21,293 votes for Democrat Jenn Ladisch Douglass and 21,020 for incumbent Republican Deanne Marie Mazzochi.

The results will be reported as soon as they are made available by the DuPage Election Commission.

wrestling programs. He said events like the one depicted in the recent video take place in the district’s middle schools. He said that his sister, who is a grade-school student with Down Syndrome, is unable to attend Sandburg Middle School due to the alleged mistreatment of kids with disabilities by students and untrained staff.

Elmhurst Police investigate

After the Elmhurst Police were advised of the incident, two cell phone videos were recorded that recorded different time segments of the incident. The video footage shows five students, including one with special needs, who were allegedly engaging in physical contact while other students observed. At one point, the student with special needs was pushed and fell to the ground, police said.

York High School administrators were first alerted to the incident and performed a disciplinary investigation which included contact with the Elmhurst Police Department. The investigation revealed that the student with special needs, who is a member of the wrestling team, engaged in wrestling behavior with four other students, two of whom are his teammates on the wrestling team.

In the video recording, a student who is not on the wrestling team appears to have pushed the student with special needs after physical contact was made. It should be noted: NO

students were physically injured during the incident.

Police said a female student aide faculty member had escorted the student with special needs to the restroom and was waiting outside the restroom during the incident. The aide summoned school administrators when she heard unusual activity inside the restroom.

Student’s parents decline formal investigation

Elmhurst Police Detectives contacted the parents of the student who was pushed but they have declined a formal police investigation. Both the parents of the student and school administration have decided that this matter would be handled through the school disciplinary process. The Elmhurst Police Department has offered counseling services to the juveniles involved.

As this incident involves children, juvenile confidentiality laws prohibit identification of the students involved and specific disciplinary actions completed. Based upon the facts known at this time, the Elmhurst Police Department said it would respect the family’s decision in the resolution of this matter.

York Student Leadership Team responds

The original plans to circulate a petition fell by the wayside after the incident and students considered or-

ganizing a walk-out if something wasn’t done about the situation but in the end, the York High School Student Leadership Team issued a statement. After expressing “deep disappointment” in their peers and frustration at this situation, they decided that in lieu of a walkout, the best way was to focus on it “from the inside out.”

“Regardless of who you are or what York means to you, we can all agree that our community is better than this and the latest news about us does not represent what it means to be a Duke,” the statement read. “Our hope is that in reaching out and focusing on preventing the disrespect behind this problem at its roots, we can continue to create a plan to shift the narrative and show how important it is to us to be part of this school.”

The statement also noted that this was not an “us vs. them” situation and that “actions speak louder than words.”

“As students we plan on using this as an opportunity to better educate ourselves and others on being tolerant and inclusive on a day-to-day basis,” the statement continued. “Not only being tolerant and inclusive but also having the courage to stand up for what is right.”

Editor’s note: The full text of the statement from the York Student Leadership Team is printed above.

School Board capsules

By Chris Fox

FOR THE ELMHURST INDEPENDENT

The Elmhurst Community Unit School District 205 Board held a regular meeting on Dec. 13 in the auditorium of York High School, 355 W. St. Charles Road. Board member Karen Stuefen was absent from the meeting.

Fall sports teams recognized

The meeting featured a recognition of the many achievements of York’s fall sports teams. Those teams included the girls cross-country team, which won the second-place trophy at the IHSA Class 3A state meet. The board also recognized York’s football team, which went 9-0 in the regular season and won three post-season games in the IHSA Class 8A playoffs. York’s season ended with a loss to Loyola Academy in the semifinal round of the playoffs. Loyola went on to win the Class 8A state championship.

The other York fall sports teams honored at the Dec. 13 board meeting included the girls tennis team, which won a sectional title and placed sixth in the IHSA Class 2A state meet.

The boys soccer team, which placed fourth in the IHSA Class 4A state tournament, was also recognized. The Dukes won regional, sectional and super-sectional titles on the way to their fourth-place finish. The team posted an overall record of 19-3-2. The board also honored York’s girls swim and dive team, which won a sectional title, as well as the girls volleyball team, which captured a regional championship.

The board recognized Lauren DeAngelis, the head coach of York’s girls cross-country team, for being honored as the National Coach of the Year in Girls Cross-Country by the National Federation of State High School Associations (NFSHSA). Ad-

ditionally, the board recognized Jordan Stopka, the head coach of York’s boys soccer team, for being named Coach of the Year by the Illinois High School Soccer Coaches Association (IHSSCA). The board also honored York’s assistant athletic director, Nicole Bellecomo-Young, who was named Assistant Athletic Director of the Year for Division 3A and 4A by the Illinois Athletic Director Association.

Public hearing about tax levy

The Dec. 13 meeting included a brief public hearing regarding the 2022 tax levy. Christopher Whelton, the district’s assistant superintendent for finance and operations, delivered a presentation during the hearing. Whelton gave a similar presentation during a recent board meeting. He noted that a levy is a request, while the extension is what a county ends up putting on its tax bills.

The district’s 2022 tax levy is 7.34 percent. The actual 2021 extension’s capped funds amounted to nearly $120 million. With a 7.34 percent increase, the capped funds of the 2022 extension would be about $128.7 million. Whelton said the estimated extension of 6.65 percent would result in capped funds of about $127.9 million. The levy request includes a cushion because new construction is unknown at the time of the levy.

Whelton’s presentation stated that the owner of a district home valued at $500,000 could expect the District 205 portion of their property taxes to increase by 4.81 percent, or about $340, from the previous year.

The district had an operating funds balance of about $68.2 million on June 30, 2022. Some of that money will be used over the next few years to pay for the expanded scope of construction projects in the district’s schools. The operating funds balance

is projected to be about $41.2 million in 2027.

Later in the meeting, board members voted 5-1 to approve a resolution for the 2022 certificate of levy. Board member Jim Collins cast the lone vote against approving the resolution. Collins explained his vote by stating that residents’ District 205 portion of their 2023 tax bills would be 11.5 percent higher than the District 205 portion of their 2021 tax bills. He said that residents are facing more increases of 5 percent in 2024 and 2025, which would lead to a 23-percent increase in residents’ District 205 portions of their property tax bills from 2021 to 2025.

Collins stated that in the last 10 years, the district accumulated about $45 million of taxpayers’ money that it did not spend. He said the district is supposed to be a pay-as-you-go operation, and added that the district could take part of that $45 million and return it to taxpayers through abatement or some other methods.

Collins said that if the district accu-

mulated about $45 million in money it did not spend in the last 10 years, when inflation was low, he could only ask people to imagine how much it would accumulate in the next few years, when high inflation will lead to annual property tax increases of 5 percent or more.

Board member Chris Kocinski said that tax abatement is an important part of the board’s dialogue and noted that the board will have discussions in early 2023 about possible abatement. Board member Beth Hosler stated that this is an unprecedented time, with high construction costs, high busing contracts and several unknown future expenses.

Yonke to consult as York principal departs

Board members voted unanimously during the meeting to approve several items on the consent agenda. One of those items was related to the board’s service contract with Dr. Linda Yonke. District 205 Superintendent Keisha Campbell stated

that Yonke has provided support and consulting service to the district. The district already has an agreement with Yonke for a specific amount of time, and all of that time has not been utilized. Campbell said that Yonke will use that time to help provide consulting services in the district’s robust search for a new principal for York High School. York’s current principal, Shahe Bagdasarian, is leaving at the end of the current school year to take a superintendent’s position in Oak Lawn. He became York’s principal in the summer of 2020.

Yonke served as York High School’s principal from 1998 to 2003. She later became the superintendent of New Trier Township High School District 203. Yonke retired from that position in 2017. As a representative of the School Exec Connect search firm, Yonke assisted the board in the search process that resulted in Campbell’s hiring as District 205’s superintendent in 2021.

The board will hold its next regular meeting on Jan. 17, 2023.

A BIG “THANK YOU”

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.

Domestic battery, disorderly conduct

Dec. 11

A 41-year-old Elmhurst man was charged with two counts of domestic battery in the 600 block of S. Sunnyside at 11:15 p.m. Police said the suspect grabbed her arms and shoved her to the ground following a verbal argument.

Dec. 10

A complainant in the 100 block of N. Maple told police at 9:34 p.m. she came home to find the suspect sleeping near her front door. The suspect left the area prior to officers’ arrival. The victim did not wish to sign complaints and will look into obtaining an order of protection.

Dec. 9

A victim in the 500 block of W. Grand reported at 10:24 p.m. that a male suspect began grabbing and pushing her. The 29-year-old Elmhurst man was placed under arrest and charged with domestic battery.

Nov. 30

A complainant in the 400 block of S. Spring reported at 1:57 p.m. that a suspect threatened to harm a patron after he accidentally bumped into the suspect. The suspect left the establishment after the complainant asked him to leave. The complainant requested the suspect be served with a no-trespass order. This case is pending investigation.

CALL 800-222-TIPS

transportation of open alcohol and failure to reduce speed to avoid an accident subsequent to a vehicle crash near Bryant and Butterfield at 11:27 p.m.

Nikki Keoborakot, 24, of Crest Hill, was charged with DUI, unlawful possession of cannabis by a driver and possession of open alcohol near Route 83 and St. Charles at 4:16 p.m.

Fleeing, eluding

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

Identity theft, fraud, forgery

According to information provided by the Elmhurst Police Department, police reported four incidents of identity theft or fraud in which a victim’s identity was fraudulently used.

Possession of cannabis in a vehicle

Dec. 14

Krystyna L. Cuellar, 31, of Villa Park, was charged with DUI and driving on the wrong side of the road subsequent to a traffic stop in the 100 block of S. Route 83 at 1:42 a.m.

Dwayne Wright, 61, of Glen Ellyn, was charge with two counts of unlawful possession of a controlled substance, DUI-drugs and standing on a roadway subsequent to a subject found sleeping behind the wheel near Route 83 and North at 1:42 a.m.

Dec. 9

Police said a victim in the 1000 block of S. Spring reported at 9:38 p.m. that an unknown subject was sleeping in her vehicle. Officers made contact with David Payritis, 27, of North Aurora, who told police he was homeless and was trying to find somewhere to stay warm. The victim related nothing was taken from her vehicle. Payritis admitted to having open alcohol in the vehicle, according to police. He was issued a citation for possession of open alcohol in a vehicle.

Dec. 8

Adam Hoffman, 35, of Elmhurst, was charged with DUI, improper lane usage, driving on the wrong side of the road, illegal

According to information provided last week by the Elmhurst Police Department, police reported two incidents of possession of cannabis by either the driver of a vehicle or a passenger: Victor J. Rodriguez, 24, and Jereme Diaz, 35, both of Chicago, in the 300 block of N. York at 7:57 p.m. Dec. 9; and Quentin Spicer, 27, of Bellwood, near York and Diversey at 10:23 a.m. Dec. 11.

Prostitution

Dec. 8

Police said officers responded for a report of a male and female with a gun. Upon further investigation it was learned there was no one with a gun and Nina Scarvone, 26, of Chicago, had used an app to allegedly meet with Yvonne Henry, 43, of Springfield, reportedly for prostitution. Scavone was charged with possession of drug paraphernalia and battery. Henry was charged with prostitution and possession of drug paraphernalia.

Road rage

Dec. 13

Police said that subsequent to a road rage incident near St. Charles and Route 83 at 12:20 p.m., a victim related the suspect displayed a handgun after he honked at her for cutting him off. The suspect related she inadvertently cut him off, causing him to yell and swear at her. It was determined a firearm was never displayed. Due to conflicting stories, no charges were filed.

Theft

or burglary / retail theft/forgery/ deceptive practice/ obstruction/ robbery

Dec. 14

Theft was reported in the 200 block of E. Vallette at 4:21 p.m. A victim reported that an unknown person walked up onto their front porch and stole their Amazon packages. The suspect was last seen on video heading westbound on Vallette.

Residential burglary was reported in the 900 block of S. Bryan at 11:18 p.m. A victim related he and his wife discovered a suspect had entered their home and stole property.

Dec. 10

Theft was reported in the 700 block of N. Howard at 6:21 p.m. A complainant related that the moving company they hired stole his wife’s jewelry during the move-in process.

Dec. 9

Theft was reported in the 600 block of W. North at 10:29 a.m. A victim reported her wallet was taken while shopping at the above location. The reporting officer reviewed video surveillance which showed the victim placing her wallet in the shopping cart and walking away to look at an item. The suspect is seen taking possession of the cart and pushing it towards the other side of the store. The suspect makes a purchase and exits the store. This case is pending investigation.

Dec. 8

Theft of vehicle parts was reported at a business in the 700 block of N. York at 9:21 a.m. A complainant related a customer’s vehicle was found propped up on wooden blocks with its tires and rims missing.

Nov. 29-Dec. 2

Theft was reported in the 500 block of W. Gladys. A victim reported two packages show that they were delivered; however, she did not receive them.

Warrant arrests

Dec. 11

Edward Klein, 69, of Villa Park, was found to have a valid warrant out of the DuPage County Sheriff’s Office near Route 83 and Second at 11:16 p.m. He also was charged with driving while license suspended, suspended registration and no insurance.

Dec. 8

Police said that subsequent to a traffic stop near N. York and W. Industrial at 1:10 p.m., Roberto Santacruz, 28, of Lombard, was found to have a warrant out of the DuPage County Sheriff’s Office. Santacruz also was issued citations for unlawful use of an electronic communication device while driving and unlawful possession of cannabis.

Police said that subsequent to a traffic stop in the 200 block of S. Route 83 at 10:28 p.m. Erol Stapleton, 40, of Elmhurst, was found to have a valid warrant out of the DuPage County Sheriff’s Office. Stapleton also was charged with driving while license suspended and disobeying a traffic control signal.

IDPH reports 86 Illinois counties are at an Elevated Community Level for COVID-19

With the holiday season under way and COVID-19 and other respiratory viruses continuing to rise across the state, the Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) is urging Illinoisans to take action to protect themselves and their loved ones during the festive season.

IDPH Director Dr. Sameer Vohra is reminding the public that basic health precautions are especially important when it comes to protecting members of the family who are most vulnerable to severe outcome, including older family members and the very young. He strongly urges parents to take advantage of the newly authorized bivalent boosters for children six months and older.

According to the CDC, 86 counties in Illinois rated at an elevated level for COVID-19 by the CDC, up from 74 a week ago. Of those, the CDC reported 43 Illinois counties at a High Community Level for COVID-19, up from 29 a week ago; while 43 counties are at Medium Level, compared to 45 last week. IDPH is reporting 23,334 new confirmed and probable cases of COVID-19 in Illinois since Dec. 9, and 82 deaths.

“Illinois continues to see a dramatic rise in communities at elevated risk levels for COVID-19, including 43 counties that are now at a high risk,” said IDPH Director Dr. Sameer Vohra. “As we prepare for holiday gatherings with our loved ones, I want to remind Illinoisians that these elevated COVID-19 community levels, along with rising flu levels, are leading to a surge of respiratory infections, increased hospitalizations and limited hospital beds. I strongly recommend all Illinoisians take preventative steps to protect themselves and their family and friends, especially those most vulnerable including young children and individuals over 65.

“These preventative measures start with being up-to-date with the COVID-19 bivalent

booster that is now authorized for children as young as six months old. Getting your flu shot is very important too. Other important protective steps include COVID-19 testing, especially if visiting someone at risk for severe disease; enhanced ventilation at gatherings; and good hand hygiene. And if you are sick, stay home and consult with your provider about whether you need one of the effective treatments that are available. A high-quality mask or respirator is also recommended and will protect you from COVID-19, the flu and other respiratory viruses. Our hope is for Illinoisians across our state to have a happy and healthy holiday season.”

Dr. Vohra stressed that those who test positive for COVID-19 should immediately contact their healthcare provider to discuss whether they need treatment with one of the effective antiviral medications, Paxlovid, Lagverio and Remdesivir. All of these have been found to work against the current strains of the virus.

Access to tests and treatments can be found at the following test to treat site or by contacting your provider for treatment options, within five days of feeling ill.

The IDPH is helping Illinoisans prepare for the fall and winter surge of COVID-19 cases by offering 1 million free COVID-19 rapid antigen tests to Illinois residents in all zip codes outside of Chicago through a partnership with the Rockefeller Foundation’s public charity, RF Catalytic Capital and its Project ACT (Access COVID Tests) program.

Through Project ACT, the IDPH is distributing up to one million at-home antigen tests to 200,000 Illinois households. You can request one package of five tests on a first-come-firstserve basis at the Project ACT website. The tests will be delivered to the home address.

Free or low cost COVID-19 testing loca-

DUI, DUI-drugs, transportation of open alcohol, possession of open alcohol, consumption of alcohol by a minor

Senior commission honors Outstanding volunteers

Obituaries

Bernt (Bert) Axel Monsen, 86 Bernt (Bert) Axel Monsen, lifelong resident of Elmhurst, passed away recently at the age of 86; Veteran US Marine Corps, Korea. Beloved Husband of 60 years to R. Karen Monsen; Loving Father of Suzanne (Daniel) McLean, Eric (Peggy) Monsen and Kjrsten (Chad) Dorwart; Proud Grandfather of Michael (Kelsey) McLean, Daniel (Jordan) McLean, Sonja (Michael) Regan, Claire (MJ) Ryan, Thor Cornell, Joey Cornell, Zack (Dakota) Dorwart, Harley Dorwart and Ian (Lily) Dorwart; Honored Great Grandfather of 8. Bernt was born and raised in Elmhurst and lived on the same block his entire life. He attended Field School, Hawthorne Middle School and York Community High School, class of 1954. Bernt joined the Elmhurst Police Department in 1958. In 1963, he was promoted to detective; in 1966 to sergeant; in 1969 to patrol sergeant and

• COVID-19

later to detective sergeant. In 1976 lieutenant, 1979, deputy chief. Finally serving as Police Chief 1981 – 1986.

After a brief retirement, Bert worked for the Illinois State Police, Operations Division, retiring again in early 2002. Although retired, Bert remained active in the law enforcement community.

Bert loved to ride motorcycles, yearly trips to Florida and was always ready for a neighborhood construction project, or wood working in his garage.

More than anything Bert accomplished professionally, he adored his wife of 60-years, “Saint” Karen and loved spending time with his children, grandchildren, and greatgrandchildren.

The family will be scheduling a celebration of life early in the new year. Arrangements by Pedersen Ryberg Funeral Home, 630-8341133.

Faith W. LaVelle, Ph.D, 101

Faith W. LaVelle, Ph.D, longtime resident of Elmhurst, died on Dec. 14, 2022, at the age of 101. Beloved wife of Arthur, affectionate mother

(Continued from front page)

tions are also available throughout the state, including in Chicago, and can be found on the IDPH website’s testing locator page.

The CDC authorized two new bivalent booster vaccines on September 1 that include an mRNA component of the original strain to provide an immune response that is broadly protective against COVID-19 and an added mRNA component in common between the omicron variant BA.4 and BA.5 lineages to provide better protection against COVID-19 caused by the omicron variant.

Initially, the Moderna COVID-19 Vaccine, Bivalent, was authorized

for use as a single booster dose in individuals 18 years of age and older and the Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 Vaccine, Bivalent, was authorized for use as a single booster dose in individuals 12 years of age and older.

On Oct. 12, the CDC authorized the updated COVID-19 vaccines from Pfizer-BioNTech for children ages 5 through 11 years, and from Moderna for children and adolescents ages 6 through 17 years.

On Dec. 9, the CDC expanded its authorization for bivalent boosters to include children aged 6 months to 5 years.

of Audrey LaVelle and loving grandmother of Jocelyn LaVelle Borys, Faith was born in St. Johnsbury, Vermont, on March 14, 1921.

“There are three parts to my life: My family life, my professional life, and my life as a volunteer,” said Faith. Her professional life began at Mount Holyoke College in Massachusetts, where she graduated summa cum laude with a B.A. in 1943 and a master’s degree in zoology in 1945. She received the Alumnae Medal of Honor from Mount Holyoke in 1965. After she received a Ph.D. in biology from Johns Hopkins University in 1949, she taught basic science courses at the University of Pennsylvania. She was then an instructor and research associate at the University of Illinois at Chicago, where she won the Golden Apple Teaching Award from the U of I Medical School. From 1970 to 1986, Faith was on the faculty of the Stritch School of Medicine at the University of Loyola at Chicago, where she received the Preclinical Teaching Award seven times. At the Stritch School of Medicine, she served as acting department chair, retired as a full professor and was named professor emeritus upon her retirement in 1987. An author of many scientific research papers on development embryology and neurology, Faith was a fellow of the American Association of University Women and a trustee of Mount Holyoke College.

It was at Johns Hopkins that Faith met Arthur LaVelle. They married in 1947 and remained together until his death in 2018. They moved to Elmhurst, Illinois, in 1951 and started a family when Audrey was born in 1956. Faith became a Camp Fire leader, leading two groups of

girls from first grade through high school. She continued to work with the local Camp Fire council board and served 14 years on the national board – two of which she served as National President of Camp Fire. Faith, Arthur and Audrey shared a love of nature and the outdoors and spent many summers touring parks and monuments across the U.S. Faith and her family also shared a love of music: Faith played the piano since a young age; Arthur played the banjo; and Audrey now works in a music program for preschool children. Faith and Arthur moved to the Park Place of Elmhurst residential community in 2012 – where she continued to teach, leading workshops and review programs on keeping the aging brain healthy.

Faith’s daughter Audrey, her son-in-law Bryan Borys, and their daughter Jocelyn live in California, where Jocelyn studies sociology and education at the University of California, Santa Cruz. A memorial service will be held for Faith at a later date. Arrangements provided by Elmhurst Funeral Home The Ahlgrim Chapel. For info, (630) 834-3515 or www.elmhurstfh.com

Dr. Dan G. Dallas, 90

Dr. Dan G. Dallas, formerly of Elmhurst for 53 years, passed away Nov. 14, 2022 in Bensenville, at the age of 90. He was born on June 8, 1932, in Chicago to Rev. George and Azimena (nee Marines) Dallas. He began the Social Service Department at Elmhurst Memorial Hospital in 1968 and was its director for 13 years before beginning a private practice until his retirement in 2000. Prior to moving to Illinois, he pastored a church in Michigan and

worked at the state prison in Jackson as a psychotherapist. As a young man he worked in Greece, doing village development with the help of the World Council of Churches and the American Farm School. He leaves his wife of 66 years, Aleta (nee Leppien) Dallas, son Paul (Sheila Graham), daughter Rhonda (Michael Robicheau). Interment will be private with a celebration of life at a later date. Arrangements provided by Memoriams by Legacy. com.

THE EYE DISEASE

SENIORS

MAY HAVE OVERLOOKED

Older individuals may already be aware that they have an increased risk of developing cataracts and glaucoma, but many are less knowledgeable about “age-related macular degeneration” (AMD). This eye disease, which affects some 1.6 million Americans over age 50, comes in two forms. So-called “dry” AMD involves a gradual breakdown of the cells responsible for sharp, central vision (the macula, near the center of the retina). As a result, central vision slowly blurs. The more severe “wet” form of AMD is characterized by an abnormal overgrowth of blood vessels and fluid at the back of the eye, which leads to central vision loss. A comprehensive eye exam and an “Amsler Grid” test are needed to diagnose AMD. Preventive and routine eye exams are important to maintaining good eye health, and patients 55 and older should be examined for signs of AMD every year. Often, eye and vision problems do not have obvious symptoms or signs, but are easily diagnosed by an optometrist. To schedule an eye exam, please call SKOWRON EYE CARE. Our goal is to help you maintain a lifetime of healthy, clear, comfortable vision by using the latest in technology from in-vogue eyewear and eyeglasses to complex contact lenses to LASIK eye surgery. At Skowron Eye Care, our mission is your vision.

P.S. People with moderate dry AMD are encouraged to take vitamins C and E, beta carotene, and copper and zinc to help delay and possibly prevent the disease’s progression. There is currently no cure.

SUBMITTED PHOTO Elmhurst Independent

The Senior Citizens Commission recently honored exceptional and outstanding senior volunteers at a ceremony held at City Hall. Those who received the Outstanding Senior Citizen Service Award included: Gary Gleason, Keith Olson, Mike LoCicero, Mary Fran and Paul Tilton. The following seniors were recognized for their volunteer service: Dorothy McGuire, Val Stewart, Irmgard Olson, Charlotte Mushow, and Carolyn Heiney.

The following organizations were represented at the event: Elmhurst Park District, Elmhurst History Museum, Elmhurst Heritage Foundation, 100+ Women Who Care, Elmhurst League of Women Voters, Elmhurst Public Library, and the American Association of University Women (AAUW). Many lives have been brightened by the positive spirit of these senior citizens. Congratulations and thank you to all of the award recipients.

Opinion

Slices of life Oh Christmas tree, no Christmas tree

Big confession, which might not be such big news to regular readers of this column: I don’t do Christmas trees.

I haven’t had one for more than a decade, and even before then, I didn’t feel it. I did manage to fake it, however.

For years I pulled that big bad boy of a dead tree into my living room and adorned him with lights and tinsel for four important reasons: my kids. Like most parents, my husband and I did a lot for our kids—meal provision, laundry completion, Band-Aid placement, new tennis shoes and Christmas trees to name just a few.

Christmas trees are embedded in history and serve as a representation of life.

The coniferous evergreens that are traditional Christmas trees never shed leaves (or in their case needles). During the winter months they remain green and alive, a symbol of immortality.

Until early January when they are hauled out to the backyard and converted to bonfire wood, while their needles are sucked up by Hoovers, making room for the living room couches, coffee tables and Lego masterpieces once more.

My mom was a proponent of Christmas trees. She loved all things Christmas. I looked up to my mom and wanted to emulate her, so I did my best to embrace

By JILL PERTLER Columnist

the concept of the tree. I did this for years, even though (to me) it seemed like effort and work all in the name of having a dead tree sit for a month in my living room.

I was half doing it for my kids. Half doing it for my mom and half doing it for everyone else—to keep up impressions. What would the neighbors think if my blinking tree lights weren’t visible from the large front room window for the weeks between Thanksgiving and New Years? Plus, as I’ve alluded, the kids enjoyed placing the star and eating the candy canes. It was for the kids. Well, the cat enjoyed the tree as well. We mustn’t forget that.

I was doing my best with the tree, albeit half-heartedly.

Then my mom died.

This was 12 years ago. Since then, I haven’t had the heart to have a tree.

Feel free to shudder.

I understand many of you (most of you) can’t imagine the holidays without tree. It is beauty. It is tradition. It is the ornaments that all hold memories. It is the fresh

pine scent. It is a place to place presents. It is Christmas carols and hot toddies. It is integral to the celebration. It is a bit of holiday magic and all it takes is rearranging the furniture to incorporate a tree in the center of the living room.

I get it. It makes perfect logical sense.

Until it doesn’t.

Again, please don’t judge.

I still have the spirit of the holidays alive and well inside my heart. I feel the magic of the season and want to reach out and give to others. I know and appreciate the reason for the season and try to live that out every day.

It’s just that for me, a tree isn’t a necessary part of the bliss.

And as with all things in life, I’ve decided that’s probably OK.

If you love your tree (or trees, in some cases for those of you extremists) I am happy for you. I rejoice with you in your love of all things tinsel. I will truly appreciate your tree if I come to visit.

But for me, right now, I’ll appreciate the trees in my back yard. And leave it to that.

Merry, happy and ho, ho, ho to all; and to all a good night!

Jill Pertler is an award-winning syndicated columnist, published playwright and author. She invites readers to follow the Slices of Life page on Facebook

Pension debt grows to $139.7 billion

All five pension funds saw losses in FY 2022

By Peter Hancock CAPITOL NEWS ILLINOIS

Illinois’ unfunded pension liability grew by $9.8 billion, or 7.5 percent, in the fiscal year that ended June 30, due in large part to market losses in a volatile economy.

The Commission on Government Forecasting and Accountability reported Dec. 8 that the total unfunded liability in the state’s five pension funds reached a total of $139.7 billion, leaving them with a funded ratio of just 44.1 percent.

Those numbers are based on an annual report from the state actuary, who reviews the preliminary financial data submitted by each of the five funds.

The funded ratio reflects the difference in the market value of the funds’ assets and the amount of money the funds would need to immediately pay all members the full amounts of benefits they are owed for the rest of time.

Although that’s an important measure of the systems’ long-term financial health, it does not reflect their current ability to pay out benefits that are owed. All five of the pension funds continue to pay out benefits to eligible retirees on a timely basis.

All told, the five pension funds had combined liabilities of $248.8 billion June 30 and total assets of $109.1 billion.

Of the five funds, the Illinois Teachers Retirement System, which is the state’s largest pension fund, showed the strongest performance, losing only 1.2 percent of its market value. In a statement Wednesday, TRS said the median rate of return among large pension systems during the year was -7.6 percent.

The State University Retirement System lost 1.4 percent of its value.

The State Employee Retirement System, Judicial Retirement System and General Assembly Retirement System all saw market value losses greater than 6 percent.

Pension systems generally receive funding from three sources—employee contributions; employer contributions; and returns on investments. The

large unfunded liability in Illinois’ pension funds is the result of the state failing for decades to make adequate contributions as the employer.

In 1994, then-Gov. Jim Edgar, a Republican, pushed through legislation whereby the state would gradually increase its contributions over the next 50 years until the funding ratio would reach 90 percent by 2045, a plan commonly referred to as the “Edgar Ramp.”

But the state has not always met its targets under that plan. In 2005, lawmakers passed a bill allowing reduced contributions, known as “pension holidays,” in times of budgetary pressure. As a result, contributions in 2006 and 2007 were roughly $1 billion lower than the amounts required under the Edgar Ramp.

The financial crisis in 2007-2008 that led to the Great Recession also resulted in significant losses for the pension funds.

Since taking office in 2019, Democratic Gov. JB Pritzker has included full funding at the statutorily required levels in each of his budgets, and over the past two fiscal years authorized an additional $500 million above what was required by law, bringing the total amount paid in to just under $11 billion, including $9.9 billion from the General Revenue Fund.

Under the 1995 law, each of the funds is required to submit a certification prior to Nov. 1 stating how much the state needs to contribute the following fiscal year.

According to those reports, COGFA said, preliminary estimates show the required contributions for the upcoming fiscal year will total $10.9 billion, including $9.8 billion from general revenues. Even that, however, would be far short of what it would take to cover the actual costs that the funds will accrue during the year.

The “actuarily determined contributions” for the five funds—the amount the state would be obligated to pay, even if the systems were 100-percent funded—would be $15.4 billion.

Analysis: Illinois’ high court makes history

By Jerry Nowicki

CAPITOL NEWS ILLINOIS

While a crocheted serpent recently took its place on the Capitol rotunda and the governor signed a pair of major bills passed in the recent veto session, history was happening on the Illinois Supreme Court.

For the first time in its history, the state’s high court is made up of a majority of women judges.

And it’s by a 5-2 margin.

Justices Elizabeth Rochford and Mary Kay O’Brien were sworn in Monday. The two Democrats were both elected to the high court in November. Justice Joy V. Cunningham, who was appointed to replace retired Justice Anne M. Burke, was sworn in on Dec. 1.

The new justices join Lisa Holder White, who was sworn in as the

court’s first Black woman justice on July 7. Cunningham became the second, bringing the number of Black justices on the Supreme Court to three, also a high-water mark for the institution.

Fittingly, the historic court will be led by Chief Justice Mary Jane Theis, who officially assumed that title in October, following Burke and becoming the fourth woman chief in the court’s history.

She’s been on the court since 2010, and ascended to the top spot by the court’s standard process, which gives the gavel to longest-tenured justice who hasn’t yet held it.

She’ll preside over a court on which four of its seven members have been seated for less than six months.

MCI first to use new leadless pacemaker at Edward-Elmhurst Hospital

Dr. Kousik Krishnan, electrophysiologist at Midwest Cardiovascular Institute (MCI), is the first to use the Abbott Aveir™ VR Leadless Pacemaker to treat abnormal heart rhythm at Edward-Elmhurst Health (EEH).

A leadless pacemaker is a small, battery-powered device with no wires that delivers electrical energy to the heart to keep it in regular rhythm. Manufactured by Abbott, the Aveir™ VR Leadless Pacemaker (LP) is the next evolution in leadless technology

that has been designed for chronic retrieval. At just 38.0 mm and smaller than an AAA battery, the Aveir™ VR LP features up to twice the projected battery life compared to other leadless pacemakers when using ISO standard settings and brings fewer lead-related complications compared to transvenous pacemakers with wires. It also offers mapping capability to assess correct placement of the device before final fixation within the heart and is designed to be enabled by future soft-

ware to support a dual-chamber pacing system upon regulatory approval.

“We want our patients to not only live longer, but better,” said Dr. Krishnan. “The entire electrophysiology

team at Edward Elmhurst Health is proud to offer this new technology to patients in need of a pacemaker. It is a game-changer for our patients due to no lead-related complications, future

upgradeability, and fewer restrictions post-implant.”

For more information or to make an appointment, visit midwestcardio. com.

SUBMITTED PHOTO The Independent Midwest Cardiovascular Institute (MCI) has announced that a new leadless pacemaker is now available to patients in need of pacemakers for abnormal heart rhythm and Dr. Kousik Krishnan (third from left) is the first to use the Abbott Aveir™ VR Leadless Pacemaker at Edward-Elmhurst Health. The staff of the cath lab at EEH includes (from left): Laura Zwolinski, Jinal Patel, Dr. Krishnan (MCI), Brian Garrity (Abbott) and Kirstie Ludwig.

Making spirits bright

SUBMITTED PHOTO Elmhurst Independent

Joyce Murphy (left) and Pat O’Dwyer smile at a job well done after assembling and decorating this tree in the Elmhurst Public Library. Joyce and Pat are members of the Elmhurst Garden Club, which takes on the task every year.

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

Saturday, December 24

Christmas Eve

Sunday, December 25

Gutters

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Mount Carmel Prayer to the Blessed Virgin Mary Oh, most beautiful flower of Mt. Carmel, fruitful vine, splendor of Heaven. Blessed Mother of the Son of God, Immaculate Virgin, assist me in my necessity, Oh Star of the Sea, help me and show me here you are my Mother. Oh Holy Mary, Mother of God queen of Heaven and Earth, I humbly beseech you from the bottom of my heart to succor me in my necessity (make request). There are none that can withstand your power. Oh Mary, conceived without sin, pray for us who have recourse to thee (say three times). Holy Mary, I place this prayer in your hands (say three times). Amen. Say this prayer for three consecutive days and then you must publish and it will be granted to you. I am confident my prayers will be answered. Thank You Mother of God!!! JC 349866

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v v v v v v

Sport S

York boys basketball team splits pair of games

continuing

By Mike Miazga CORRESPONDENT

The York boys basketball team split a pair of recent games against West Suburban Conference competition. The Dukes were 58-46 winners over Hinsdale South in a WSC crossover game. “We played very well,” York coach Mike Dunn said. “We were very actively defensively. We got out to a pretty big lead in the third quarter. Hinsdale went on a bit of a run and we held them off and still won by double digits. We executed offensively and played well as a team. It was one of our better games of the year.”

Braden Richardson led the Dukes with 19 points. AJ Levine, York’s leading scorer, added 18 points.

York then dropped a 58-38 WSC Silver Division contest to Lyons

Township. “Lyons is 7-0 and is very good,” Dunn noted. “They consistently hit shots all night and we struggled to catch up. We did not play a very good first quarter and got down 10-2. We made a run in the third quarter and got it down to 11. We are not at that level yet. They are probably one of the top two teams in our league. We play eight juniors who are getting a lot of experience and learning on the run a little bit in a very good conference. It’s very difficult. Our kids are resilient and they have persevered through some challenges. We are improving.”

Richardson led the way for York against LT with 13 points. “Braden has come on a lot the last week or so,” Dunn said. “He has been very good stepping up and doing what

progress for young Dukes squad

we expect him to do as a junior who started last year as a sophomore.”

Dunn said York will be shorthanded for a stretch with junior Brendan Molis being sidelined due to injury. “He will be out for a little bit,” Dunn noted. “We are hoping to get him back around the second week of January. We are still figuring out rotations. It’s been a little bit of a new adjustment.”

York was 5-6 overall through late last week and 1-3 in WSC Silver play. The Dukes played Lake Zurich in a non-conference game earlier this week and will return to play Monday at the York Jack Tosh Holiday Classic against St. Laurence High School out of Burbank. Game time is 8 p.m. in the Campbell Gym at York. If York wins, it will play the winner of Highland

Park and Bolingbrook (6:30 p.m. game on Monday) on Tuesday at 8 p.m. in Campbell. If York loses to St. Laurence, it will play the HP-Bolingbrook loser at 1:30 Tuesday in Campbell.

“It’s a very good field,” Dunn said of the Tosh schedule. “We think it’s the best tournament in the state. There are some big-time first-round matchups. We know St. Laurence is very good. We will have our hands full.” Other first-round contests in the 32-team field at York on Monday include: Minooka vs. St. Ignatius (8:30 a.m., South gym), Naperville North vs. Glenbard West (10 a.m., South), Schaumburg vs. Riverside-Brookfield (11:30 a.m., South), Chicago Leo vs. Lake Forest (1 p.m., South), Nazareth Academy vs. Yorkville (3 p.m., South),

Wheaton North vs. Palatine (4:30 p.m., South), Batavia vs. Lyons Township (6 p.m., South), Timothy Christian vs. Stagg (7:30 p.m., South gym), St. Francis vs. Glenbrook South (9 a.m., Campbell gym), Hinsdale South vs. Waubonsie Valley (10:30 a.m., Campbell), Montini vs. Rolling Meadows, noon, Campbell), Glenbard North vs. St. Patrick (1:30 p.m., Campbell), Downers Grove South vs. Lemont (3:30 p.m., Campbell) and Andrew vs. Conant (5 p.m., Campbell).

The tournament runs through Dec. 30. The Dec. 30 games include the consolation final at 3 p.m., the third-place game 4:30 p.m. and the championship game at 6 p.m. All three games will be played in the Campbell gym.

By Mike Miazga CORRESPONDENT

The IC Catholic Prep girls basketball team got an early start on its holiday trophy shopping. The Knights ended up third at the Reavis pre-holiday tournament in south-suburban Burbank. IC Catholic Prep downed Thornridge 50-16 to close out play there. Allie Geiger was named to the all-tournament team at Reavis. IC Catholic Prep went 3-1 at Reavis, beating Tinley

Park (68-30), Thornton-Fractional South (52-26) and Thornridge (5016) and losing to De La Salle (5036). IC Catholic Prep led 31-11 at halftime. Geiger finished with 13 points, while Maura Grogan had 12 points and Kelsey McDonough chipped in 10 points.

In other recent action, the Knights dropped a close 37-36 Metro Suburban Conference Blue Division game to St. Francis. IC Catholic Prep led 8-0 after the first quarter and 1917 at halftime. St. Francis rallied and led 30-29 going into the fourth quarter. But the Knights came back and held a four-point lead with 50 seconds to play before losing by a single point.

Geiger led IC Catholic Prep with

11 points. Kayla Carrillo added eight points and Grogan had seven points. “We played very good defense in the first quarter, obviously,” IC Catholic Prep coach Todd Fisher said. “Holding a pretty good team like St. Francis to zero points is good. They made some adjustments in the second quarter, and we got into foul trouble. Basketball is a game of runs. St. Francis went on their run in the second quarter, and we had ours in the first quarter. We were up four with under a minute to go. We had a few defensive lapses and St. Francis won the game by one.”

The Knights also lost 65-35 to Providence Catholic out of New Lenox. IC Catholic Prep will join

Providence (as well as De La Salle, which it played at Reavis) next season in the Girls Catholic Athletic Conference. “Providence took control right from the beginning,” Fisher said. “We were chasing big early.” IC Catholic Prep trailed 23-3 after the first quarter. Geiger had 14 points to lead the Knights, while McDonough added 10 points.

“Providence executed very well,” Fisher said. “I hate to leave it at that, but Providence executed their stuff very well. Going back to St. Francis, what we did do is play pretty good defense. The first quarter was very good, but we came out of halftime and struggled a little bit. Take away a chunk of the second and some of the third, and our defense was pret-

ty good. What hurt us was shooting. We shot very poorly from the paint. Free throws hurt us as well. We shot 9-for-20 from the line and St. Francis shot 3-for-5. A poor shooting night and some very key defensive miscues hurt us that game. Thornridge at Reavis we handled like we should have.” IC Catholic Prep goes on a small hiatus until heading over to Lisle for the Lisle tournament after Christmas. The Knights open play against Reed-Custer there and could have a second-round matchup with Timothy Christian. “The kids are locked in,” Fisher said. “They are hungry. They get what we need to do. It comes down to execution.”

The Knights will bring a 9-7 overall mark into Lisle.

By Mike Miazga CORRESPONDENT

Sometimes, the effort doesn’t equal the results. That’s how Timothy Christian boys basketball coach Scott Plaisier basically summed up his team’s recent games with crosstown foe IC Catholic Prep and Bishop McNamara. “We have not been playing too bad of basketball but have not come out on the right side of things,” he noted. Timothy lost to IC Catholic Prep 44-41 at home, missing a 3-pointer at the buzzer that would have sent the game to overtime had it went in. “We could not get much going in the first half,” said Plaisier, whose team trailed 22-14

at halftime. “We only managed two field goals in the first half, which is kind of a sad state. We were able to get things going in the third quarter. We had a one-point lead a couple different times. They made some good plays down the stretch and made a couple of free throws. We had a couple of late turnovers that didn’t help and then missed that shot at the buzzer.”

The Trojans also lost 69-68 to Bishop McNamara in another Metro Subruban Conference Blue Division game. “We had our chances in that game as well,” Plaisier said. “We are in one of those areas where the teams on paper that we should be able to

beat we have proven to ourselves that we can and the teams that are really quality and maybe on paper are better than us, we have been challenging them, but not able to quite come away with the win. We are moving in the right direction; we’re just not seeing the success on the winning side of things.”

Plaisier said Kyle Steiner continues to excel for the Trojans. “Kyle Steiner has been leading the charge for us all year,” he said. “Anytime we play well, it’s pretty indicative of how well he plays. If Kyle is playing well, we play pretty well. Against IC, I think he only had two points in the first half and took two shots. In the

second half, he did a much better job of being aggressive and being able to attack the rim, where he’s good.”

Sophomore Ryan McKenzie also continues to improve, Plaisier noted.

“We are getting good minutes from Ryan,” he said. “He’s our only underclassmen on the varsity right now. He finishes around the bucket pretty well and made a nice 3-pointer in the second half against IC. He had a bunch of nice finishes going to the bucket and had that nice 3 that sparked us a little bit.”

In the ICCP game, Alex Keizer also provided some offensive spark. “Alex knocked in a couple jumpers that helped keep us close in that

game,” Plaisier said. Steiner had a team-best 25 points in the Bishop McNamara game. Thon Bill, a 6-7 junior, was also lauded for his exemplary play. “Thon Bill had his best game of the season,” Plaisier said. “He played really well. He scored it around the bucket really well and was good around the glass. He’s doing a really good job on the boards for us.”

Timothy was 4-5 overall and 0-2 in MSC Blue play after the ICCP game. “I told the guys all you have to do is win one of these close ones to believe you win them instead of

Foundation 205 plans annual gala

Leslie headed

‘Showcase 2023: Dream Big’ set for Feb. 4

Le Moyne

Will play volleyball for Division II school

Foundation 205 is pleased to announce its annual fundraising event, Showcase 2023: Dream Big, will be held on Saturday, Feb. 4 at Medinah Country Club.

By Mike Miazga CORRESPONDENT

Recent IC Catholic Prep graduate Bella Leslie wanted to head east for college.

Her landing spot ended up being at NCAA Division II Le Moyne College where the former Knights volleyball and soccer standout will continue her volleyball career at the Syracuse, New York school as a libero.

An Elmhurst University project that has significantly improved energy efficiency in campus buildings recently won the Excellence in Engineering Technology Award from the Illinois chapter of the American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air-Conditioning Engineers, or ASHRAE.

Guests will enjoy a cocktail hour, a seated dinner, musical entertainment and an afterglow after-party. Tickets are currently on sale at www. foundation205.org.

I feel like I would be so bored without it because it has been such a big part of my life.”

Leslie said she has plenty of memories from IC Catholic Prep’s coach Nancy Kerrigan’s program.

Elmhurst University recognized for engineering technology

difficult to maintain, O’Malley said. In the wintertime, heat rising from the tunnels led people to mistakenly believe the campus had installed heated sidewalks to melt the snow.

This annual event is Foundation 205’s largest fundraising effort of the year and typically sells out. Those unable to attend are encouraged to show their support by purchasing raffle tickets or bidding in the online auction. Corporate sponsorship opportunities are also available.

District 205 schools.

“We have quite a few surprises for those donors who are able to attend in person at Medinah,” said event cochair Megan Farley. “We are [planning] to highlight D205 students and teachers throughout the evening.

nonprofit organization that supports Elmhurst Public Schools in District 205. Last year, Foundation 205 was able to fund more than $330,000 in innovative and impactful grants for District 205 schools.

This year, the Foundation is challenging all donors to “Dream Big” and join in expanding the support for

“All of the schools I was looking at were on the East Coast,” Leslie told the Independent last week. “I visited Le Moyne and really liked it. It reminded me of high school because it was a small school, and in a smaller school you will know a lot more faces than if I would have gone to a bigger school. The campus there is really pretty. It sits on a big hill and the scenery around it is great. Everything is pretty close together. They have very nice facilities. The volleyball program has good workout facilities and a nice locker room. I liked how modern it was.”

“I loved playing there,” she said. “I probably enjoyed school volleyball more than club because I love my team and the coaching staff was very supportive on and off the court. It made it a really good environment to be in. Coach (Kerrigan) was great. I have known her for a while. When I was little, I did all the little kids camps, and her daughter was in my brother’s grade at IC.”

The project involved replacing and modernizing the campus’ aging heat plant and chilled water systems, and the award recognized Elmhurst University, AMS Industries, Cyclone Energy Group, Momentum, Inc., and Trane Heating & Air Conditioning. Nora O’Malley, executive director of facilities management, accepted the award on behalf of the University at an awards dinner held earlier this month in Chicago.

After two years of planning and preparation, the old boiler system was replaced with standalone boiler plants in 17 buildings. The new, decentralized system is more reliable and less costly to operate and maintain. It also earned more than $750,000 in rebates from local utility providers, and already has resulted in improved energy efficiency for the campus, which used 32 percent fewer therms in 2021-22 than in 2020-21.

Leslie said she will miss plenty about IC Catholic Prep. “I will miss how close knit of a community it was,” she said. “I knew everybody at the school. It will be weird going on campus and not knowing all the faces. I’ll miss those close connections with the coaches and teachers. It will be weird for the first year or so.”

The night will feature the York High School Jazz Ensemble and DJ Daniel as the after-party entertainment.” Foundation 205 is a 501(c) (3)

For tickets and information, please visit www.foundation205.org or contact Kate Knicker, Foundation 205 executive director, at kknicker@elmhurst205.org or call 630-617-2328.

In 2019 the university went into the project with a 55-year-old centralized boiler and steam distribution system, as well as obsolete chillers and cooling towers. Steam traveled from the heat plant through a maze of tunnels to individual campus buildings, a system that was outdated, inefficient and

Leslie plans on studying nursing at Le Moyne. “They have a good nursing program,” she said. “As far as what kind of a nurse I want to be, I’m not quite sure yet.”

soccer at IC Catholic Prep all four years. She was a center-midfielder on the Knights soccer team.

started in the fifth grade, the first year she could play the sport at IC Grade School. She’s been play ing club volleyball since seventh grade, most recently with the Chi cago Elite group that practices out of Scores in Willow Springs and Montini High School in Lombard.

to play volleyball in college,” she said. “It gives me something to do.

think an own goal in the last five minutes. That was against the state champs in the sectional finals. That’s a hell of a season if you ask me.”

“Receiving this award from a prestigious organization like ASHRAE means so much to our team, which was working together on this project from its earliest stages,” said Elmhurst University President Troy D. VanAken. “It also affirms the University’s commitment to responsible stewardship of our fiscal and physical resources, and will benefit the campus for years to come.”

Leslie said pandemic life hasn’t been overly exciting, though her club volleyball team has started practicing again. “We have been practicing two or three times a week,” she said. “We are going to be starting tournaments again. Before that I haven’t been doing anything because senior soccer season and the club volleyball season were

been cancelled due to the pandem ic. “I will probably leave Aug. 10-11 because it’s a far drive,” she said. “We had Zoom call with the team recently and they said they should have an answer about our season in the next 7-10 days. They talked about three scenarios and what could happen like if we start the season and someone gets sick and we have to stop and go. That’s one of the reasons why they are looking at moving the season to the spring. Right now the plan is to have a season, but we won’t know until the next 7-10 days.”

lie can’t wait to take her skills as a libero to the next level with the Dolphins. “I feel like being a libero you have to be really quick and that is typically what I am good at.

U12 baseball action

Foundation 205 is preparing for its upcoming fundraising event, Showcase 2023: Dream Big, scheduled for Saturday, Feb. 4, at Medinah Country Club. Pictured celebrating at last year’s event are (from left): Megan Farley, Kerry Sayers and Angie Martino. Farley and Martino will chair this year’s event. For tickets and information, visit foundation205.org.

huge rah-rah person. I’m a little bit more of an individual players’ coach. I will pull kids to the side at practice

Stopka noted York has been doing conditioning drills and said the plan as of earlier last week was to start summer camp pending District 205 approval. “I have probably been able

• Basketball

(Continued from page 14)

I have really good reaction time,” she said. “I like diving on the floor and saving balls. It’s a really good feeling when you make a save. The position fits my personality, too. You have to be the loudest one on the court. I have a loud personality. You have to be pretty loud if you want to be a libero. I think I match that description.”

ble and transparent and communicate with everybody.”

Steady… steady…

being scared you will lose,” Plaisier said. “We are right there with kind of an inexperienced group that, for the most part, hasn’t played a lot of varsity basketball. They are right there. They are going to learn from the positive plays and negative plays they make coming down the stretch before they get that first one. Sometimes, that first close win is all you need to put together a string and start winning those close games. It’s important for them to believe in themselves and know they can make plays and glean confidence in their ability to play and trust themselves coming down the stretch that they can get it done.”

He taught Spanish and one math class at St. Pat’s. “My philosophy is I am more of a players’ coach,” he said. “I have been a big Liverpool soccer supporter ever since 2015 when Jur gen Klopp came over and he’s known as a players’ coach. He’s kind of my coaching idol. I want to related to the players and form bonds with them. am more light-hearted and smiling. I like to have fun and joke with the kids. The goal is understanding where each player can be successful and the provide the best way possible to convey the knowledge they need at the position they play. I am not big

Independent

Joanne Carlson places a decoration at the very top of the Christmas tree while Diane Roubitchek looks on. Decorating the Elmhurst Public Library has been a tradition of the Elmhurst Garden Club for many years.

proved that would be the start of our contact days with four days a week for three weeks straight. And even though the IHSA waived the blackout dates before the school year, we won’t take advantage of that. I’m pretty sure families have plans to do things before school starts. I’m the new guy and I’m not going to say you can’t go with your family. Go do it and enjoy it. This is a crazy and

The Trojans play Ridgewood Friday before heading to the York Jack Tosh Holiday Classic where they will play Stagg in the first round. “Ironically, I coached a couple years at Stagg before coming to Timothy,” Plaisier said. “I know them pretty well. It will be a fun game. They play super hard and are really wellcoached. We will have to play super tough against Stagg.”

As far as the future, Stopka wants York competing at a high level on a consistent basis. “The short-term goal is to restock and build up the team,” he said. “A large portion of last year’s team was seniors, especially the starting 11. We have to make sure the now juniors are up to the speed of the varsity level and are ready to contribute. We want to keep that pipeline going with the younger groups of players. We want to make sure we are not only competitive, but that we are competing for regionals, sectionals and supersectionals. It starts for me with this junior class that is coming in. We want them ready to go and setting the standard for these other classes that come in so they can also contribute right off

proudly presents YORK HIGH SCHOOL PLAYER OF THE WEEK BRADEN RICHARDSON YORK BOYS BASKETBALL

Barr was the recipient of the 2019-2020 York Val Cothern junior female athlete of the year award. Barr went over the 1,000-career kill threshold last fall for the Dukes girls volleyball team and still has a season to add to that total.

Richardson, a 6-5 junior post player, led York with scoring with 19 points in a win against Hinsdale South and was the team’s leading scorer with 13 points in a loss to WSC Silver Division foe Lyons Township.

Anthony Bucolo fires a pitch during a recent U12 baseball game.

SUBMITTED PHOTO Elmhurst

SUBMITTED PHOTO Elmhurst Independent

Elmhurst University welcomes more than 100 new students Brings surprise announcement to area schools

Elmhurst University President Troy D. VanAken and other University ambassadors recently hit the road to personally congratulate more than 100 Chicago-area high school and transfer students, and even a graduate student who all were just accepted to Elmhurst through its early action admission program.

On Dec. 1-2, VanAken, University mascot Victor E. Bluejay, and a small army of counselors and leaders from the Office of Admission surprised nearly 50 seniors at Fenton High School in Bensenville, 40 seniors at Addison Trail High School in Addison, 20 seniors at Benito

Juarez Community Academy in Chicago, and several transfer students currently attending Triton College, Harper College and College of DuPage.

College of DuPage student Tiffany Cuevas, who was surprised at her home in Addison, thanked the admission team for making that in-person visit. “I had no idea you and my mom had planned this!” she said.

At Fenton High School, 49 unsuspecting seniors were called out of class to attend a mysterious “Special Recognition,” where VanAken congratulated the students and presented each with a “Bluejay Box”

containing their letter of acceptance, a scholarship offer, an Elmhurst T-shirt and more.

He noted that annual merit scholarships totaling $958,000 were offered to the Fenton students, or more than $4 million over the four years that they would be Elmhurst students, should they decide to attend.

“It means so much for us to be able to come and be a small part of your journey,” he said, adding that their early acceptance to Elmhurst reflected their hard work and investment in themselves and their future. Encouraging them to pursue their college dreams, whether at Elm-

Elmhurst Public Library programs

Friday, Dec. 23 from 2-4 p.m.

Friday Features: Christmas in Connecticut

Enjoy an afternoon at the movies. Find each week’s featured film at elmlib.org/Friday. No registration required.

Tuesday, Dec. 27 from 2:30-4 p.m.

School’s Out Movie: Happy Feet (Grades K-8)

Come watch a movie on our big screen during winter break. Tuesday’s movie is Happy Feet, rated PG. Live in-person. No registration.

Wednesday, Dec. 28 from 10 a.m.-1 p.m.

American Mah Jongg: Open Play Gather every Wednesday for American Mah Jongg, a game of skill, strategy, calculation, and a certain amount

of chance. No registration required.

Wednesday, Dec. 28 from 2:30-4 p.m.

School’s Out Movie: Night at the Museum (Grades K-8)

Come watch a movie on our big screen during winter break. Wednesday’s movie is Night at the Museum, rated PG. Live in-person. No registration.

Wednesday, Dec. 28 from 7-8 p.m.

Reducing Holiday Stress Through Meditation

Join meditator Zelma Chamberlain, M.Ed., as she discusses the effect of meditation to reduce stress-related responses, improve concentration, enhance clarity of thought, and promote mental equilibrium. Live on Zoom.

hurst or somewhere else, he advised them to “choose a place where you can reach your full potential, where they’re committed to you, and where you feel you can belong.”

Fenton senior Tera Pabico, of Bensenville, applauded enthusiastically for each of her fellow students

as their names were called to get their Bluejay Box.

“I thought it was really nice, very personal, for the University to do this for us,” said Pabico, who plans to major in communications or marketing. “It felt really welcoming and shows that Elmhurst cares.”

Community calendar

Sunday, Dec. 25

Have a very Merry Christmas!

Sunday, Jan. 1, 2023

Best wishes for a Happy New Year!

Saturday, Jan. 7

Sugar Creek hosts the annual ‘Chili Open’ golf outing. Located at 500 E. Van Buren in Villa Park, Sugar Creek Golf Course is a 9-hole, par 32 course, owned and operated by the Elmhurst Park District and Village of Villa Park. Come out to play in the cold weather and enjoy some tasty chili. To register or for information, call 630-834-3325.

Sunday, Jan. 15

From 12 - 1 p.m., the Elmhurst History Museum, 120 E. Park Ave., presents a free gallery talk, “In Pur-

suit of Happiness: Immigrants in our Communities,” led by exhibit consultant Sandy Denninger. Includes exclusive access to museum galleries with highlights of the experiences area immigrants contributed to our shared history. Unable to attend? Access to an online pre-recorded version is available from Jan. 16 through May 14 at elmhursthistory.org/320/ Programs. Info: elmhursthistory.org or 630-833-1457.

Saturday, Feb. 4

Foundation 205 will hold its annual fundraising gala “Showcase 2023: Dream Big” at Medinah Country Club. Tickets include cocktail hour, a seated dinner, musical entertainment, raffles, an online auction and an afterglow after-party. For tickets and information, visit foundation205.org.

To post a community event, send the information to Independent@rvpublishing.com and put “Community Calendar” in the Subject line.

Elmhurst History Museum’s exhibit

On display now through May 14, 2023, “In Pursuit of Happiness: Immigrants in Our Communities” is a new exhibit at the Elmhurst History Museum that will explore the unique journeys of area immigrants and their descendants who have carved out a sense of cultural identity and belonging in this region.

Elmhurst Art Museum

• Closes Sunday Jan. 15: The first solo museum show of Pilsen-based street artist Sentrock, whose real name is Joseph Perez, is currently on display at the Elmhurst Art Museum. Info: elmhurstartmuseum.org.

• Now through Jan. 16, 2023, the Elmhurst Art Museum is holding an exhibition in honor of its founder Eleanor King Hookham. In celebration of its 25th Anniversary, the Museum is honoring its founder Eleanor King Hookham (1909-2003). She was an educator, internationally exhibiting artist, and the main driving force behind the museum for many decades. Artwork by Hookham from the museum’s collection will be on view in the McCormick House, along with historical photos and documents that show her leadership in securing the historic home for the museum’s future patrons to enjoy.

See works by the trailblazing Hookham in the McCormick House Children’s Wing including oil paintings, watercolors, and signature ink and coffee drawings. Professionally she called herself El King and exhibited around the world.

Info: elmhurstartmuseum.org.

Experts say gun control only one part of a bigger puzzle

By Peter Hancock CAPITOL NEWS ILLINOIS

A legislative committee on Dec. 15 heard more witnesses call for a ban on high-power, semi-automatic rifles and large-capacity magazines, but some experts said that alone won’t solve the problem of violent crime in Illinois.

During its second hearing on a proposed assault weapon ban, an Illinois House committee, meeting in Chicago, heard from several officials who said public investment in marginalized communities and community-based programs that aim to stop cycles of violence also are needed.

“Unfortunately, community-based providers serving at-risk youth and emerging adults have lacked substantial investments for decades. Yet these programs have proven to be impactful and effective,” Delrice Adams, executive director of the Illinois Criminal

• History

Justice Information Authority, told the panel. “Community investment, diversionary criminal justice programming and evidence-based, trauma-informed treatment can reduce crimes related to illegal gun carrying. A deliberate investment must continue to be part of the gun violence prevention conversation.”

Adams spoke during a House Judiciary-Criminal Committee hearing on House Bill 5855, sponsored by Rep. Bob Morgan, D-Deerfield. It would ban the sale and possession of “assault weapons,” .50 caliber rifles, .50 caliber cartridges and high-capacity magazines. The bill provides a long list of firearms, both rifles and pistols, that would fall under the definition of “assault weapons.”

And starting 300 days after the bill takes effect, it would make it illegal to possess such a weapon or ammunition

(Continued from page 8)

The day after her ceremonial swearing in at the Supreme Court building on Nov. 14, Theis sat down with me for in an interview in the Supreme Court chamber to talk history and the challenges ahead in navigating a young, inexperienced court. The conversation was the subject of the latest episode of Capitol News Illinois’ Capitol Cast podcast.

“In my life story, I am not a trailblazer. I am not Mary Ann McMorrow, who was the first woman on our court,” she said. McMorrow was first elected to the court in 1992.

Theis added, however, that while she was a public defender in Cook County early in her law career, she was one of three women in the Cook County criminal bar.

“To say I was the only woman in the room is absolutely true for a very long time in my career, even when I went on the bench,” she said. “There were very, very few women. But there were some. And as we moved along, there were many more behind me.”

Diversity on the bench, Theis said, is both enriching to deliberations and important from a symbolism standpoint.

“It wasn’t that long ago when Charles Freeman was the first African American on this court. He joined the court in 1990,” Theis said. “But he was the only African American up until 2018 and then Scott Neville joined this court.”

Neville remained the only Black justice until he was joined this year by Holder White and Cunningham.

“Suddenly, we’re now going to have three people (on this court) that are people of color,” Theis said. “It says something about our state and something about our court that we’ve evolved to such a place that we can have that diversity.”

For all the historic progress on the court’s diversification, Latino judges continue to be underrepresented on the high court and the appellate courts directly below it.

While Illinois is 18 percent Latino, the Illinois Latino Agenda noted in a news release, there’s just one Latino appellate justice and none have ever served on the high court.

Groups like the Puerto Rican Bar

Association have also continued to call on the high court to appoint Latinos to court vacancies at the appellate and Supreme level.

I didn’t directly ask Theis about the lack of Latino representation in state courts, but she did speak to the importance of all Illinoisans being represented.

“In my experience … when there are people with different backgrounds and different life experiences, they bring something to the table, they enrich the discussion, they enrich the opinions that we make,” she said.

While Theis said she’s invigorated by the new court and the experiences and worldviews its new members will bring to the bench, she described the challenges of the court’s turnover as “innumerable.”

“It’s just four new people starting a new job,” she said. “We have to really spend some time talking together, first of all, just about the history and traditions of how the court circulates opinions and real practical things like that. But I’m looking forward to some conversations with the new court as to what they want.”

One place the new justices will bond is the Supreme Court’s dining hall. When in Springfield, the mem-

unless it is registered with the Illinois State Police.

Kim Smith, director of programs at the University of Chicago Crime Lab, called gun violence a “public health crisis” in the United States, noting that its homicide rate is at least 7.5 times that of other industrialized nations and that guns account for 79 percent of those homicides.

“Here in Chicago, fully three quarters of shootings stem from an altercation that happens to take place within a reach of a gun,” she said. “One way to reduce gun violence is therefore to make the situations in which those arguments occur more forgiving.

The best way to do that is to limit the widespread availability of illegal guns, particularly those equipped with high-capacity magazines. Without the presence of a gun, altercations would still happen, but they would be far less

likely to result in death.”

But Smith said other actions are needed as well, including investments in social service programs that help people “de-escalate stressful situations before they lead to violence.”

One of the programs recently put into place in Illinois that aims to make those investments is the 2021 Reimag-

SUMM

bers of the high court stay in living quarters above the court chamber and eat all or most of their meals together with the chief at the head of the table.

“The idea being that you get to know people, and you find out all about them,” Theis said. “And, you know, you talk about the Bears. Or you talk about the weather. Or you talk about whatever you’re going to talk about. And you get to know people and respect people. And then when you go to make decisions, there’s this sense of respect. And when you disagree, it comes from a place of respect.”

There’s also another considerable shift on the court—its 4-3 Democratic majority of recent years has grown to 5-2.

For Theis, that doesn’t mean much.

The only disagreement over party she had with outgoing Republican Justice Michael Burke, she said, was that he’s a White Sox fan and she hails from “the shadows of Wrigley field.”

“There is no partisanship, unless you want to say sports partisanship,” she said.

The 18 decisions released by the court last month back up her claim. None were decided on partisan lines.

ine Public Safety Act, administered by the Office of Firearm Violence Prevention within the Illinois Department of Human Services, which provides grants to organizations for violence prevention programs in 42 target communities both within and outside Chicago that have seen the highest rates of gun violence and homicides.

LEGAL NOTICES

Ron Mason Cole 7746 Gallego Plains Drive Las Vegas, NV 89113 626-862-6673 ronmcole@gmail.com

Self-Represented DISTRICT COURT CLARK COUNTY, NEVADA

Ron Mason Cole Plaintiff, -VSKarinne Loraine Cole Defendant.

Case No. D-22-654023-D Dept No T

SUMMONS NOTICE! YOU HAVE BEEN SUED. THE COURT MAY DECIDE AGAINST YOU WITHOUT YOUR BEING HEARD UNLESS YOU RESPOND IN WRITING WITHIN 20 DAYS. READ THE INFORMATION BELOW VERY CAREFULLY.

To the above-named Defendant. A civil Complaint has been filed by the Plaintiff against you for the relief set forth in the Complaint. This action is brought to recover a judgment dissolving the contract of marriage existing between Plaintiff and Defendant

fee

(c) Serve a copy of your response upon the attorney or person whose name and address is shown below

2. Unless you respond, your default will be entered upon application of the Plaintiff and failure to so respond will result in a judgment of default against you for the relief demanded in the Complaint, which could result the taking of money or property or other relief requested in the Complaint.

3. If you intend to seek the advice of an attorney in this matter, you should promptly so that your response may be filed on time.

4. The State of Nevada, its political subdivisions, agencies, officers, employees, board members, commission members and legislators each have 45 days after service of this Summons within which to file an Answer or other responsive pleading to the Complaint

STEVEN D. GRIERSON, CLERK OF COURT

By: Signature of Deputy Clerk, 10/3/2022

Deputy Clerk Date Family Court and Services Center 601 North Pecos Road Las Vegas, NV 89155

1. If you intend to defend this lawsuit, within 20 days after this Summons is served on you, exclusive of the day of service, you must do the following:

(a) File with Clerk of this Court, whose address is shown below, a formal written answer to the Complaint in accordance with the rules of the Court.

(b) Pay the required filing fee to the court, or file an Application to Proceed In Forma Pauperis and request a waiver of the filing

Bensenville Fire Protection District #1 Fire Protection (General) Fund Statement of Revenues Received, Expenditures Disbursed and Changes in Fund Balance - Cash Basis Year Ended May 31, 2022

Revenues Received Property taxes $278,650 Replacement taxes 24,111 Fire insurance compliance 9,504 Interest 9 Total revenues received 312,274

Regional Justice Center 200 Lewis Avenue Las Vegas, NV 89155 Issued on behalf of the Plaintiff /s/ Ron Mason Cole 7746 Gallego Plains Drive Las Vegas, NV 89113 626-862-6673 ronmcole@gmail.com Self-Represented (Published in The Elmhurst Independent Nov. 24, Dec. 1, 8, 15 & 22, 2022) 429162 430432

Expenditures Disbursed Fire protection City of Elmhurst 106,878 Village of Bensenville 148,811 Trustee remuneration 3,000 Professional fees 29,307 Website development and maintenance 450 Dues and postage 591 Publications 322 Insurance 2,267 Signage 70 Secretarial and printing 3,000 Total expenditures disbursed 294,696

Change in Net Position/Fund Balance 17,578 Fund Balance, Beginning of Year 56,103 Fund Balance, End of Year $73, 681

Salary Range Less Than $25,000 Agonath, J.; Guerino, P; Nowak, M.

Payments Over $2,500 Excluding Wages and Salaries

Person, Firm, Corporation

Aggregate Amount Bensenville Fire Protection District 2 $148,811.00

City of Elmhurst $106,878.00 John Millner & Associates $ 11,000.00

BKD CPAs $ 4,056.00

Bond Dickson & Conway $ 12,620.70 P. DeMichele $ 3,000.00 (Published in The Elmhurst Independent Dec. 22, 2022) 430415

Elmhurst happenings

City Centre Penguin Contest

Recurring daily through Jan. 4, the penguins are marching into Elmhurst City Centre this holiday season. Search the city’s merchants’ windows and stores for adorable plush penguins to win a prize. Pick up a game card at your favorite merchant or download at our website. Over 100 prizes.

For more information, visit: www.discoverdupage.com/event/city-centre-penguin-contest/6260.

Sentrock: The Boy who Wanted to Fly

Now through Jan. 15 at the Elmhurst Art Museum, see the first solo museum show of Pilsen-based street artist Sentrock, who seeks to uplift and empower youth through his murals and educational projects. Admission: Adults $15, Seniors (65 and over) $12, members and students under 18 are free. The mu-

seum is open Wednesdays through Thursdays from noon-5 p.m. and Friday through Sundays from 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Free admission takes place the first Friday of every month.

For more information, visit: www.elmhurstartmuseum.org/exhibitions/bird-s-eyeview.

On the Cutting Edge: Contemporary Gemstone Sculpture

Lizzadro Museum of Lapidary Art, Oak Brook

Recurring daily from 10 a.m.-4 p.m. at the museum, 1220 Kensington Road, features 10 lapidary artists from the Americas representing gem carving trends in the 21st century. Admission: $10 adults, $8 seniors, $5 per child/ student. For more information, visit: https:// lizzadromuseum.org/calendar.

McCormick House Tour

From 1-2 p.m. through Jan. 8 at the Elmhurst Art Museum, 150 S. Cottage Hill Ave.,

celebrating the 70th anniversary of the McCormick House. Learn about the history and unique design of the McCormick House (1952) by the legendary architect Mies van der Rohe on this docent-led tour. The McCormick House is a single-family home designed in 1952 by Mies van der Rohe, one of the great architects of the 20th Century. Admission: $15 adults, $10 seniors, kids/students, members are free. For more information, visit: www.elmhurstartmuseum.org/events/mccormick-house-tour-16.

Sunday, Jan. 15

Elmhurst History Museum gallery talk

From noon-1 p.m., there will be a gallery talk at the Elmhurst History Museum in the 1st floor Gallery, featuring exhibit consultant Sandy Denninger, who will lead participants through highlights of the In Pursuit of Happiness: Immigrants in Our Communities exhibit. Includes exclusive access to museum galleries while hearing highlights about the experiences of area.

Register now for EAM Winter Art Camp, classes

Spark your creativity, or your child’s, this

season through the Elmhurst Art Museum’s Winter Break Art Camp, a new December Potter Studio class, and January classes:

• Winter Art Camp takes place Dec. 26-30 is available for ages 5-12 and ages 8-12. The 8-12 age groups will learn a variety of clay techniques and projects. The 5-7 group will explore a variety of art-making techniques with the option to attend a half or full day.

• Sign up now for the Winter Art Classes held Jan. 8-Feb. 16 with offerings ranging from animation, ceramics, life drawing, and more.

Continuing through Sunday, May 14

In Pursuit of Happiness: Immigrants in Our Communities at the Elmhurst History Museum. Examine the diverse stories and experiences of area immigrants and their descendants as told through first-person accounts, photographs, treasured objects, video and more.

Visitors will gain an understanding about DuPage County’s growing diversity and the challenges immigrants face as they shape an evolving identity in this country.

Info: elmhurstartmuseum.org.

Museum gift shops offer last minute gifts

If you’re stuck on a holiday gift for that special someone and you want something truly unique, stop by local museums and look at the gift shop.

Lizzadro Museum

The Lizzadro Museum of Lapidary Arts, formerly located in Elmhurst’s Wilder Park, currently 1220 Kensington Road in Oak Brook, offers a great many items that will make a special gift for the special person on

your list. Lizzadro offers stone bookends, jade carvings, one-of-a-kind jewelry, items for the home, kids activities and much more. There are also a variety of books including Lizzadro publications.

Elmhurst Art Museum

The Elmhurst Art Museum offers sunglasses, postcards and greeting cards, mini sculptures, T-shirts, puzzles and kids activities, coasters, totebags and more.

Can’t-miss events throughout DuPage County

Editor’s

it: northsurburbancarvers.com

Now through Saturday, Dec. 24

Ongoing

North Suburban Carvers meetings

The North Suburban Carvers meet on the first and third Mondays of each month at the Wood Dale Public Library from 6:30-8:30 p.m. Anyone interested in carving, power carving, wood burning or special finishing techniques is welcome. North Suburban Carvers is a non-profit organization that promotes carving in the Chicago area. For more information, vis-

Santa at Yorktown Center, Lombard Meet and have your picture with Santa Claus from 11 a.m.-8 p.m. Monday through Friday (with a break between 3-4 p.m.) and 9 a.m.5 p.m. Christmas Eve (with a break between 1-:45 p.m.) Photo packages are available. For more information, visit: https://yorktowncenter.com/holiday

Santa at Oakbrook Center, Oak Brook Recurring daily, revel in the excitement of taking pictures with Santa (located on the lawn

• Events

(Continued from page 18)

at Oakbrook Center) reconnecting with family and friends while you shop together, spreading holiday cheer to those in need. Reservations are scheduled in 15-minute time blocks throughout the day, with up to five families booked in each time block. We recommend arriving within the 15-minute time block of your reservation. For more information, visit: www.oakbrookcenter.com/ en.html.

Now through Sunday, Dec. 25

Christmas Tree Walk, Wheaton Downtown Wheaton, 130 W. Liberty Drive, stroll the tree-lined streets of this upscale retail and service district and delight in the quaint shops, award-winning restaurants, indulgent day spas and unique boutiques. For more information, visit: www.downtownwheaton.com.

Now through Friday, Dec. 30

A Christmas Carol at Drury Theatre and Events, Oakbrook Terrace Continue your tradition or start a new one by gathering the whole family for the 30th anniversary of Drury Lane Theatre’s heartwarming production. Complete with falling snow and magical illusions. Recurring weekly on Wednesday, Thursday, Friday and Saturday. To purchase tickets and show information, call 630-530-0111.

Festival of Lights and Christmas tree sales, Wheaton

From 9 a.m.-9 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays, and 3-9 p.m. Monday through Friday at Cosley Zoo (lights come on at 3 p.m.), a winter visit to the zoo has become a favorite family tradition. Cosley Zoo is transformed into a winter wonderland with thousands of twinkling lights, an amazing selection of Christmas trees, wreaths and greenery, hot chocolate, and a unique assortment of holiday gifts in the Wild Side Gift Shop. Admission is free. For more information, visit: https://cosleyzoo. org/festival-of-lights.

Now through Dec. 31

Naper Lights

In downtown Naperville, from 4-10 p.m. daily, enjoy a magical holiday lights celebration. Marvel at this free dazzling display of holiday lights and sound as you stroll down Water Street, Foyo Plaza, Jaycees Park and the Riverwalk in Downtown Naperville. For more information, visit: https://naperlights.com.

Brookfield Zoo Holiday Magic

From 3-9 p.m. on the following dates—Dec. 26, 27, 28, 29, 30 and 31—Brookfield Zoo is featuring the Chicago area’s longest running lights

festival with over two million twinkling LED lights. A 600-foot tunnel of lights, a skating rink, illuminated animal sculptures and drop-off letter for Santa are among the features. In 2022, for North Gate entry, advance reservations are not required; however, you may purchase these in advance. Advanced reservations are required for South Gate entry. Holiday Magic admission is free for Brookfield Zoo members. For more information, call 708-688-8357 or visit: https://www. czs.org/HolidayMagic-2.

Now through Jan. 2

Holiday lights at Lilacia Park, Lombard

Sponsored by the Village of Lombard and the Lombard Park District, the park is open daily from 4:30-10 p.m. for one of the Chicago area’s most spectacular holiday lights displays. Free admission. For more information, visit: https://lombardparks.com/holiday-lights

Now through Jan. 7

Illumination: Tree Lights at the Morton Arboretum, Lisle

Join in celebrating the 10th annual Illumination: Tree Lights at The Morton Arboretum during the Arboretum’s 100th anniversary year. Explore 50 acres of the Arboretum’s majestic trees during this one-of-a-kind spectacle of color, light, and sound featuring six dazzling new displays as well as returning favorites. Tickets are between $10-$22 for members and $16-$27 for nonmembers. For questions about purchasing tickets, email: tickets@ mortonarb.org For more information, visit: https://mortonarb.org/explore/activities/exhibitions/illumination/.

Now through Jan. 8

Winter Lights at Central Park, Oak Brook

From 4:30-9:30 p.m. at the park, 1510 Forest Gate Road, bundle up and enjoy a half mile walk through the beautifully lit park. Discover dancing trees, inspirational signs, colorful rainbow arches, cascading snowflakes, and musical hearts throughout this scenic walk. There will be photo opportunities throughout the walk. Inclusive and accessible. Anyone can walk or roll through the light show on our paved pathways. Dogs are allowed on a leash. For more information, call 630990-4660 or visit: www.obparks.org/ winterlights

Night of Lights, Adams Park, Wheaton

Recurring daily at Adams Park, 303 W. Wesley St., Adams Park will be

lit up with 57,500 bulbs, making the downtown a festive destination “where the treetops glisten.” This year, the holiday spectacle will return the Friday after Thanksgiving, but with thousands more bulbs and new features. For more information, visit: www.discoverdupage.com/event/night-of-lights/6200.

Dec. 30

Teenie Weenie New Year’s Eve ball, Carol Stream

From 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. at the Simkus Recreation Center, 849 W. Lies Road, kick off the new year Teenie Weenie style! Kids 8 and under get an early start on the festivities as we countdown to noon! Activities include a DJ and dancing, a bounce house, games, crafts and a balloon drop. Light refreshments are served. Fee is per child; adults are free but required to stay at the event. Advance registration is required. Pre-registration closes Dec. 29. For more information, call 630-784-6100 or visit: www.csparks. org.

Dec. 31

Bubble Bash at DuPage Children’s Museum, Naperville

From 9 a.m.-1 p.m. at the museum, 301 N. Washington St., spend time together creating lasting memories, taking part in special activities, grooving to good music, exploring the museum’s hands-on exhibits, and counting down with confetti, bubbles, and more. For more information, visit: https:// dupagechildrens.org/family-fun/bub-

ble-bash/.

Jonny Cab’s New Year’s Eve Party, Burr Ridge

Starting at 8:30 p.m. until 12:30 a.m. at Jonny Cab’s, located at 212 Burr Ridge Parkway, the inaugural Jonny Cab’s New Year’s Eve Party featuring the Jersey Girls. Pre-sale admission tickets are a $50 deposit towards the final $125 ticket price. All deposits are non-refundable. Final ticket price will include tax and 20 percent gratuity. All attendees must be 21 years of age; we reserve the right to check your ID at the door. All guests attending must have a ticket for entry. Tickets can be purchased online with a deposit through EventBrite or in-house on your next visit to Jonny Cab’s with the same deposit. For reservations, call 630468-2125.

New Year’s Eve Bollywood Gala 2023, Willowbrook

From 8 p.m.-2 a.m. at Ashton Place, 341 75th St, SK Productions formally invites you to celebrate New Year’s Eve 2023 with us in luxurious style, at the annual New Year’s Eve Bollywood Gala. Food and drinks included with the ticket. Ticket includes seating at an exclusive, reserved VIP table with a complimentary bottle of champagne, dinner, unlimited premium top-shelf drinks, and bottle service. Each group member must purchase a VIP ticket to be seated at the VIP table.

Reservations only. Dress code: formal/ semi formal Indian or Western attire. Strict dress code enforced. For reservations call 773-312-3534.

Celebrate New Year’s Eve, option 2, Wood Dale

At the Wood Dale VFW Tioga Post 2149, 510 Georgetown Square, there will be live music and later a juke box for dancing. Try your luck on the gaming machines. All money spent in this hall goes directly to veterans’ services. The drinks are reasonably priced. Free champagne toast at midnight.

For more information, call 630766-0334 or visit: https://vfw2149. org.

New Year’s Eve, Brauer House

Starting at 8:30 p.m. at Brauer House, 1000 N. Rohlwing Road, Lombard, Mr. Blotto and Terrapin Flyer bring in the new year together. A full set by each band and then at midnight both bands jam in a 2023 free-for-all. For more information, call 630-495-2141 or visit: brauerhouse.com.

New Year’s Eve daytime party,

Naperville

From 11 a.m.-7 p.m. at the Lantern, 8 W. Chicago Ave., #1, celebrate at The Lantern’s Daytime New Year’s Eve Party with live music by Junkyard Groove from 4-7 p.m., champagne toast at 6 p.m. Bar open from 11 a.m.-7 p.m.

For over 30 years, Wintrust Community Banks have gone above and beyond for the people and places we work and live. We’re proud to invest in, give back to, and empower our communities. That’s why we’re ranked #1 in customer satisfaction in retail banking in Illinois by J.D. Power.

Elmhurst Bank is a branch of Hinsdale Bank & Trust Company, N.A. For J.D. Power 2022 award information, visit jdpower.com/awards.