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1 • Thursday, Dec. 7, 2023 - The Elmhurst Independent

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VOL. 21• NO. 51

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THURSDAY, DEC. 7, 2023

Police: Man, 33, fatally shot at Oakbrook Terrace hotel

STAFF REPORT

A shooting at an Oakbrook Terrace hotel Saturday night left a 33-yearold man dead, according to police.

The victim, identified by DuPage County coroner Richard Jorgensen as Calvin Truitt (residence not given), was shot at the Oakbrook Terrace Hilton and Suites, 10 Drury Lane, next to the Drury Lane Theatre.

Police said officers from Oakbrook Terrace and surrounding communities went to the hotel after a report of shots being fired at around 8:30 p.m.

After arriving at the hotel, police said officers found Truitt with gunshot wounds and performed life-saving measures on him until paramedics arrived. Truitt was then taken to Advocate Good Samaritan Hospital in Downers Grove, where he later died.

A person of interest was taken into custody by police following an extensive search of the hotel. That person had not yet been identified or officially charged at press time.

The hotel was immediately placed on lockdown Saturday night. It was lifted early Sunday morning.

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On Sunday, ABC 7 Eyewitness News interviewed Tamara Raczkiewycz, who was a guest at the hotel, along with her daughter and her friends to celebrate her daughter’s 18th birthday.

“I went to get the girls some dinner, dropped it off in their room, went to my room, started eating. All of a sudden, I hear shouting in the hall,” she told ABC 7. “I see that it’s out towards the balcony. I go look. I see shots. I hear yelling. I see people running. First thing I do is run back towards their room and tell them [to] lock the door. ‘Do not open the door ’til it’s me.’

“We could see everything. The shooting happened on the seventh floor. We were on the eighth floor. I see policemen armed with their rifles, up and down the halls. [They] didn’t say anything to any of the guests.”

Oakbrook Terrace police said the shooting was an isolated incident and assured there was no ongoing threat to the public.

The incident remains under investigation.

Elmhurst University awarded $7.4 million state grant The Illinois Board of Higher Education, jointly with the Capital Development Board, has awarded Elmhurst University a $7.43 million grant to help fund construction of the new health sciences building on campus.

The grant was awarded through the state’s Independent Colleges Capital Investment Grant Program, which provides financial assistance to private, not-for-profit colleges and universities in Illinois for construc-

tion, repair, renovation and other capital projects.

The university broke ground earlier this fall on the three-story, 45,000-square-foot health sciences building. The state-of-the-art facility will be a multidisciplinary hub for the nursing, public health, occupational therapy and communication sciences and disorders programs.

The facility will house a simula-

SUBMITTED PHOTO Elmhurst Independent

Santa visits preschool

On Saturday, Dec. 2, Buttons and Bows preschool received a visit from Santa. Happy children and plenty of holiday spirit filled the room as children shared their dreams and wishes and got their picture taken with Ol’ Saint Nick. This was the first time the event was held since COVID.

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2 • Thursday, Dec. 7, 2023 - The Elmhurst Independent

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The Elmhurst Independent - Thursday, Dec. 7, 2023 • 3

Elmhurst Centre for Performing Arts receives grant from DuPage County

Programs air on COMCAST Channel 6 and AT&T U-Verse Channel 99. Programs may also be found On Tuesday, Nov. 14, the Elmhurst at ElmhurstTV.com Centre for Performing Arts (ECPA) was awarded a DuPage County Explore Elmhurst Small Non-Profit Grant.

40th Annual Dan Gibbons Turkey County Board members Cindy Trot - Friday at 6 p.m.

Cronin Cahill and Sam Tornatore were on hand to present a check Explore Elmhurst for $25,000 to representatives from “An Intimate Evening with Jim ECPA. Peterik” Thirty-seven organizations were Join us to hear more about the awarded up to $25,000 with more journey of Jim Peterik and his incredible story that continues to inspire around the world. Jim Peterik and his bandmates will be joined onstage by special guests Mike Pavlik, York HS Director of Bands, and York student musicians Matthew Markwald on trumpet, Vasili Malamis on trombone, and Julian Dominguez on saxophone.

Friday at 7 p.m.

than $650,000 distributed to organizations throughout DuPage County at a morning reception that included a meet-and-greet of County officials.

“We are very grateful to Greg Schwarze for creating this grant and for the funding that will greatly impact ECPA and our programming,” said Laura Michaud, ECPA Board secretary and founding member. “We are pleased to be recognized as not

only a creative entity in the western suburbs but also an economic engine, driving residents and visitors alike into local businesses before and after our programming and campaigns.

“This grant will be put to good use as we continue to grow our newest series, ‘An Intimate Evening with…’ and invite notable performing artists to the western suburbs.”

The ECPA is a non-profit 501(c)3

City of Elmhurst #57 Veterans Day Ceremony 2023 Master of Ceremonies: William Shanklin Wednesdays at 8 p.m.

Explore Elmhurst “Lost Chicago Department Stores” Guest Speaker: Leslie Goddard, Ph.D. In this illustrated lecture, historian and author Leslie Goddard, Ph.D., revisits Chicago’s fabulous retail emporiums and explores their rise and fall.

Thursdays at 5 p.m.

the Performing Arts (ECPA). The ECPA was one of 37 organizations to receive a DuPage County Small Non-Profit Grant.

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Explore Elmhurst “Starting & Growing Your Small Business in Elmhurst” Learn about requirement and regulations for opening or expanding your small business in Elmhurst and ECPA PHOTO Elmhurst Independent beyond! Experts will help connect District 1 County Board member Cindy Cronin Cahill (center), who is also an Elmhurst resident, you to a variety of available resourcpresents a check for $25,000 to Shawna Roubitchek (left) and Laura Michaud of the Elmhurst Centre for es. Tuesdays at 6 p.m.

See PROGRAMS, Page 5

organization dedicated to building a state-of-the-art venue for live music, theatre, dance, comedy, and other events. For more information, contact Shawna Roubitchek at ECPAElmhurst@gmail.com.

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Community Programs

4 • Thursday, Dec. 7, 2023 - The Elmhurst Independent

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District 205 squelches rumor that student had taser Concern came from posts on Nextdoor app

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

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By Dee Longfellow For The Elmhurst Independent

Last weekend, a post was found on an app called Nextdoor that claimed a York High School student had a taser during lunch period last Thursday, meaning Nov. 30. This prompted a call to Elmhurst School District 205, which denied that any such incident happened.

The post on Nextdoor read as fol-

Administration: Dee Longfellow News Coordinator

For The Elmhurst Independent

By Dee Longfellow The Elmhurst City Council meeting held on Monday, Dec. 4 began with the introduction of the York High School Lady Dukes, who were

Pete Cruger Publisher

be this quiet if a gun was found?

A knife? Or is when the student is of a certain herritage(sp) they let it slide?”

Next post: “yes york, I have a student there and that is how I found out about this.”

Next post: “Nobody is asking for names or what punishments are handed down, although it would be nice to know that the student(s) are no longer in school, or whether or not the police are involved. Parents need to be shown that the school is handling the situation in a way that reassures them of the safety of their

the 2023 state cross-country champions.

• Police Chief Michael McLean introduced Police Chief Patrick Crease with the Illinois Chiefs of Police Association, who oversees a program called ILEAP, an Illinois accreditation authority. A police department must submit its own standards to ILEAP, which then takes steps to measure those standards and make sure the department is meeting them.

This year, Elmhurst placed in Tier #1, the top tier.

“It allows us to recognize outstanding police departments throughout the state,” Crease said. “We look at all aspects of the department, patrols, investigations, records, training, everything. We consider it an ‘administrative bulletproof vest.’”

Crease added that only about 5 percent of police departments in Illinois are in Tier #1.

McLean thanked Crease and ILEAP as well as the accreditation team of officers who work on the standards for the department.

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child. Hiding this from the parents is very concerning, then again this district has had a history of keeping secrets. We got notified when there was a noose found, because it was supposed racism, but we ended up finding out that it wasn’t anything of the sort.”

In an email exchange, District 205’s Tonya Daniels, executive director, communication and community relations, said the information is not true.

“I have confirmed with the York High School building leadership that this is not an accurate story and there was not a taser brought into the school,” Daniels said.

State champion York Lady Dukes honored at City Council meeting Grabowski announces ramp closure at I-294 next week

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lows: “Any word on the student(s) who were found with a Tazer(sp) during lunch on Thursday? I’d elaborate further, but I’d probably get reported for it and suspended for the 10th time. Regardless, that is very concerning, especially when there has not been any sort of communication with parents. “To possess a tazer(sp) in Illinois, one has to obtain a FOID card, the police typically charge individuals with unlawful use of a weapon, a class 2 felony, if somone(sp) is found without one. I recommend parents start inquiring about this to the school and the police department. would the school

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• Mayor Scott Levin opened a public hearing on the tentative budget for 2024. There was no public input in writing or in person. Levin called for a motion to adjourn the hearing and it was closed.

“That’s how you run a meeting!”

Levin quipped.

Levin praised the Dan Gibbons Turkey Trot in his report and thanked all the City staff who helped with its execution from start to finish.

“The Turkey Trot on Thanksgiving morning continues to be a premiere event for the City of Elmhurst,” Levin said. “There are lots of volunteers involved, we all enjoyed it very much.”

The mayor reminded residents that the Holly Trolley was in service on Saturdays now through the end of the year. It’s a good way to get around town during the holiday season for all your gift shopping.

Levin announced that Fire Stations #1 and #2 are both drop-off locations for donations to Toys for Tots. There is also a tree in the City Hall lobby that has paper ornaments indicating what gift is desired.

• In his report, City Manager Jim Grabowski said a ramp will be closed next week on North Avenue and Lake Street to allow for bridge beam placement on I-294. It is an overnight project, so all work will be done between midnight and 6 a.m.

• During reports of elected officials, 7th Ward Alderman Rex Irby said the American Legion Post THB #187 is holding an aluminum can collection drive. A trailer can be found on the west side of the American Legion building (next to the storage shed), where aluminum cans can be placed for recycling.

It is available 24/7 for drop-offs and every time the trailer is filled, the Legion will receive $250-$300. All funds raised will benefit the American Legion programs and charitable initiatives. Please note: ALUMINUM cans only.

The Elmhurst Independent - Thursday, Dec. 7, 2023 • 5

University preps for new building

ARCHIVE PHOTOS Elmhurst Independent

On Thursday, Oct. 12, Elmhurst University leaders (from left) Kent Dahlgren, Wes Becton, Hugh McLean, Diane Salvador and Troy VanAken, as well as Elmhurst Mayor Scott Levin, use shovels to officially break ground for its new health sciences building. The University recently received a $7.4 million grant from the Illinois Board of Higher Education in conjunction with the Capital Development Board.

• Programs Elmhurst University bands plan annual Holiday Concert Home Alone will provide a classical contrast to the rollicking musical depiction of downhill skiing in Carter Pann’s Slalom. Minor Alterations by David Lovrien provides a musical twist on Christmas carols as seen through a looking glass and this portion of the program will conclude with Tchaikovsky’s Trepak from The Nutcracker Suite.

The Symphonic Band will perform a collection of holiday favorites beginning with Dashing Through the Snow. Of course, there has to be a bit of evil with How the Grinch Stole Christmas but that will lead to a traditional and beautiful setting of Greensleeves. A challenging and fun rendition of Laughing All the Way will lead to one of the most enjoyable holiday favorites that invites us

to hear those sleigh bells jingling in a wonderful world of snow in Leroy Anderson’s Sleigh Ride. The concert will conclude with an audience singalong to some of the most delightful Christmas carols fashioned together in Leroy Anderson’s famous Christmas Festival. And who knows? . . .

There may be a visit by a jolly gentleman in a red suit!

The public is welcome to attend and admission to the concert is free.

For more information regarding this concert and future performances, please visit www.elmhurst.edu/music

Send Joy Local & Nationwide Delivery

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Pictured is the Elmhurst University Symphonic Band and Wind Ensemble at last year’s annual Holiday Concert in Hammerschmidt Chapel on the university campus. This year’s event takes place on Sunday, Dec. 10, at 7 p.m. The concert is free and open to the public.

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The Elmhurst University Symphonic Band and Wind Ensemble invite the community to attend their annual Holiday Concert on Sunday, Dec. 10, at 7 p.m. in Hammerschmidt Chapel on the university campus.

The concert will feature a variety of holiday music and conclude with an audience sing-along. The concert is free and open to the campus and community.

The concert will open with the Wind Ensemble performing Bruce Broughton’s overture to the movie soundtrack from Miracle on 34th Street. Rimsky-Korsakov’s Dance of the Tumblers from the opera “The Snow Maiden” along with the beautiful Pie Jesu by Andrew Lloyd Webber and John Williams’ Somewhere in My Memory from the movie

(Continued from page 3) Explore Elmhurst Mondays at 6 p.m.

Elmhurst University Lecture “Telling Our Stories: Moving Il- Elmhurst PSA loop linois Forward for LGBTQ+ Justice Various announcements from the Michael Ziri is the director of pub- City of Elmhurst lic policy at Equality Illinois, the Wednesdays at 5 p.m. state’s civil rights organization for City Council meetings air WednesLGBTQ+ people. At this year’s Wil- days at 12 noon and Thursdays 7 p.m. liam R. Johnson Lecture at Elmhurst School District #205 Board meetUniversity, he will discuss legislative ings air on Thursdays 2 p.m.

Info: www.ElmhurstTV.com initiatives focused on equality in Illinois.

6 • Thursday, Dec. 7, 2023 - The Elmhurst Independent

Police beat

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

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

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

York at 11:07 p.m. Nov. 22; Michael J. Garcia, 42, of Melrose Park, near Route 83 and I-290 at 5:11 p.m. Nov. 23; Devaughn A. Green, 29, of Forest Park, near North and Willow at 10:59 p.m. Nov. 25; Jeremy Erazo, 22, of Northlake, near North and West at 12:04 a.m. Nov. 26; Jaliza L. Fontanez, 27, of Villa Park, near St. Charles and Arlington at 5:20 p.m. Nov. 27; and Alynna B. Clay, 18, of Elmhurst, near Garden and Fay at 11:19 p.m. Nov. 27.

Battery

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

Nov. 28 Police said officers responded to the 800 block of N. Industrial at 8:09 p.m. for a fight in progress. Both parties were separated and transported to Elmhurst Hospital due to their injuries. The suspect was charged via warrant with two counts of aggravated battery and one count of armed violence.

Criminal trespassing, criminal damage Nov. 27 Police said officers responded to the 800 block of N. Industrial at 9:07 a.m. for the report of a suspicious person. A search of the area yielded no results, but it was found to be a former employee that was previously trespassed. Further investigation is pending.

Nov. 24 A victim in the 100 block of S. Route 83 told police at 11:56 a.m. that when he returned to his vehicle after working out, the rear windshield of his vehicle was shattered by unknown means.

Nov. 23 Daja K. Raper, 21 of Chicago, was charged with criminal trespass to a vehicle and no valid driver’s license in the 200 block of E. Columbia at 8:18 p.m.

Domestic battery, domestic incident, disorderly conduct, disturbance, dispute Nov. 23 Police said officers responded to the 600 block of W. Armitage at 6:54 p.m. for the report of a domestic battery. Upon arrival, the victim told police that subsequent to a verbal argument, the suspect reportedly pushed the victim causing her to fall into the wall. The suspect refused to exit the house. An investigation is pending.

DUI, DUI-drugs, transportation of open alcohol, possession of open alcohol, consumption of alcohol by a minor Nov. 28 Kathreen M. Henderson, 75, of Bensenville, was charged with DUI, failure to reduce speed to avoid an accident and improper lane usage on the above date for an alleged incident that occurred Nov. 16.

Nov. 26 Brenda Burnett, 38, of Country Club Hills, was charged with DUI, unlawful possession of a controlled substance and improper lane us-

CALL 800-222-TIPS age subsequent to a traffic stop near Lake and Route 83 at 4:21 a.m.

Kyle James, 35, of Bellwood, was charged with DUI, illegal transportation of open alcohol by a driver, speeding, improper lane usage, failure to signal and no insurance subsequent to a traffic stop near York at Columbia at 3:25 a.m.

Ivan Sanchez, 19, of Carol Stream, was charged with DUI, consumption of alcohol by a minor, improper lane usage, failure to reduce speed to avoid an accident and no insurance near Brush Hill and Salt Creek at 3:43 a.m.

Nov. 24 Valentin Vazquez Montero, 23, of Bensenville, was charged with DUI, illegal transportation of alcohol, improper lane usage and loud excessive noise caused by a muffler subsequent to a traffic stop near York and Lake at 1:05 a.m.

Nov. 23 Ashly T. Dorsey, 34, of Forest Park, was charged with DUI, unlawful use of electronic communication device and carrying a concealed firearm while under the influence, near Addison and North at 1:44 a.m.

Luke Malaga, 20, of Elmhurst, was charged with DUI, consumption of liquor by a minor, and attempt to possess a fraudulent driver’s license near Park and Poplar at 2:38 a.m.

Nov. 22 Javier Lira Gonzalez, 39, of Chicago, was charged with DUI in the 100 block of E. Butterfield at 11:23 p.m.

Fleeing, eluding

According to information provided last week by the Elmhurst Police Department, police reported one incident 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 two incidents of identity theft or fraud.

Possession of cannabis in a vehicle

According to information provided last week by the Elmhurst Police Department, police reported seven incidents of possession of cannabis by either the driver of a vehicle or a passenger: Javier Velez, 38, of Chicago, near North and Route 83 at 10:08 p.m. Nov. 22; Shawn McCants Jr., 20, near Industrial and

Meredith A. Rathert, 40, of Elmhurst, was charged with retail theft at a store in the 300 block of S. Route 83 at 2:47 p.m. Police said that subsequent to a report of a retail theft in progress, a complainant related that Rathert concealed several items in her purse. Upon exiting the building, the suspect was placed under arrest and transported to the station.

Nov. 24 Yeison David Elmin, 20, and Frannyer Garcis Saavedra, 22, both of Chicago, were charged with misdemeanor retail theft at a store in the 300 block of S. Route 83 at 6:31 p.m. Police said the suspects concealed several items and exited the store without paying. A reporting officer located the suspects, who were inside their vehicle in the parking lot.

Nov. 10-Nov. 17 A victim in the 400 block of S. Stratford told police that some of his belongings went missing sometime between the above dates after the suspect helped him move boxes away. The suspect was his caregiver assigned by his insurance company. The reporting officer made contact with the suspect, who related he did not take anything from the victim.

Nov. 28 Joshua Williams, 20, of Chicago, was charged with burglary and aggravated possession of a stolen vehicle in the 300 block of N. Kenilworth at 8:28 a.m. According to police, a victim related that a suspect shattered the rear driver’s side window of their vehicle and stole a backpack. Riverdale police apprehended two suspects in an al- Warrant arrest legedly stolen vehicle after a traffic crash. Nov. 27 An investigation determined the stolen vePolice said Damiane E. Velez, 31, of hicle’s occupant had committed the vehicle Crest Hill, was served with an arrest warrant burglaries, police said. for felony retail theft at 11:17 a.m. on the above date for an alleged incident that ocNov. 26 curred July 25 at a store in the 300 block of Deiker Perez, 20, and Dayker Perales S. Route 83. Police said a complainant was Lombano, 20, both of Chicago, were charged shopping the store and observed Velez put a with burglary and retail theft at a store in the large number of clothing items into a cart, 300 block of S. Route 83 at 6:08 p.m. Police walk past the cash register without paying said a complainant related that the suspects for the items, put all the items into her vehitook merchandise and exited the store with- cle and leave the parking lot. An investigaout paying. tion is pending.

Couple charged in burglary, retail theft at Oak Brook Macy’s Pair allegedly brought children with to assist

DuPage County State’s Attorney Robert Berlin and Oak Brook Deputy Chief of Police Reid Foltyniewicz have announced that charges have been filed against a couple for allegedly stealing more than $950 worth of merchandise from the Oak Brook Macy’s Angelo Almaraz store.

Angelo Almaraz, 26, of Chicago, and his domestic partner Thalia Morales, 32, of Hammond, Ind., appeared before Judge Joshua Dieden, where both defendants are charged with one count of burglary (Class 2 felony) and one count of retail theft (Class 3 felony).

It is alleged that on Monday, Nov. 27 at approximately 5:46 p.m., two individuals, later identified as Almaraz and Morales, entered Oakbrook Center Macy’s store with four children, three of whom belong to Almaraz and Morales, ranging in age from infant to 13 years.

It is alleged that the group went to the children’s section where the two eldest children began selecting items and handing them to Almaraz and Morales, who placed the items in Nordstrom Rack bags, which they had brought with them.

It is alleged that when the group neared an exit, a loss prevention officer approached them at which time they ran to their car with the merchandise still in the bags and fled the scene.

An Oak Brook police officer responded to the area and pulled over their vehi- Thalia Morales cle as it was attempting to turn onto Route 83.

It is further alleged that the bag with the stolen merchandise, which totaled approximately $962, was in the vehicle.

The defendants were taken into custody at this time.

“The allegations that two grown adults enlisted the help of children as they stole nearly $1,000 worth of merchandise are extremely disturbing,” Berlin said. “I caution anyone who is even thinking about coming to DuPage County to steal that if you do, you will be caught, charged and prosecuted.”

The next court date for both defendants is scheduled Tuesday, Dec. 26 for arraignment.

The Illinois Department of Children and Family Services has been notified of the matter.

As this is an ongoing investigation, additional charges may be forthcoming.

The Elmhurst Independent - Thursday, Dec. 7, 2023 • 7

Former GOP senator, third-party governor candidate, to represent himself in corruption trial McCann fires court-appointed attorneys on trial’s scheduled start date

By Hannah Meisel

CAPITOL NEWS ILLINOIS

Nov. 27 was supposed to have been the first day in the weeklong federal corruption trial of former Republican state Sen. Sam McCann, who allegedly misused more than $200,000 in campaign funds for personal expenses.

A pull-down projector screen in the Springfield courtroom of U.S. District Judge Colleen Lawless stood ready to play host to prosecutors’ presentation prepared to accompany their opening statements.

But in a bizarre turn of events as Lawless took the bench that morning, McCann presented a pair of last-minute motions to represent himself, ditching his latest court-appointed attorneys and delaying the trial for at least the 13th time.

“I’m not a professional … but I care about the outcome,” McCann told the judge, acknowledging he isn’t an attorney, nor did he finish college.

Lawless chided McCann for not actually answering her question of whether he was familiar with the federal rules of evidence, later adding that a “trained lawyer” would represent him far better than any defense case he’d put on as a pro se litigant.

“I think it is unwise for you to represent yourself in this proceeding,” Lawless said before ultimately approving both of McCann’s motions and rescheduling the trial for the week of Feb. 5.

During a final pretrial conference the week before, Lawless had already approved McCann’s request to have the case heard in a bench trial

setting, instead of a trial by jury.

After the hourlong court session Nov. 27, McCann briefly explained to reporters outside the courthouse that he’d come to his decision over the long Thanksgiving holiday weekend, when he’d hoped “a better defense” would materialize from his court-appointed attorneys.

“I’ve been counting on other people to do everything they could do for me,” McCann said. “And that hasn’t worked out. And so now I’m going to do everything I can do. And we’ll let the good Lord take care of the rest.”

‘Scheme to defraud’ McCann had been out of public office for more than two years in February 2021 when a federal grand jury indicted him on seven counts of wire fraud and one count each of money

Woman pleads guilty to 2nd degree murder; gets 15 years Incident took place at former Pheasant Run Resort DuPage County State’s Attorney Robert Berlin has announced that a former River Grove woman has been sentenced to 15 years in the Illinois Department of Corrections after entering a plea of guilty to one count of second-degree murder (Class 1 felony) in the death of her boyfriend, Earl Hagen, Jr., of Plainfield.

Kathleen Vulpitta, 61, entered her plea in court before Judge Brian Telander, who handed down the sentence.

On Sept. 9, 2018, Vulpitta appeared in bond court where bond

was set at $2 million. She has remained in custody since that time.

On Sept. 6, 2018, at approximately 9:20 p.m., the St. Charles Police Department and medics responded to a medical assist call at the former Pheasant Run Resort located on North Avenue.

Upon their arrival, medics found Hagen unresponsive in the west parking lot at the former resort. An investigation led by the St. Charles Police Department found that Vulpitta and Hagen were staying at Pheasant Run Resort and at some point that evening, an argument

ensued between the pair. When the argument turned physical, Vulpitta left their room and went to the parking lot, followed by Hagen.

In the parking lot, Vulpitta entered Hagan’s vehicle and drove toward him, striking Hagen with the vehicle.

“Kathleen Vulpitta took responsibility for the death of Earl Hagen, Jr.,” Berlin said. “Earl’s tragic death cannot be undone, and I wish his surviving family and friends strength as they continue their lives without the love and support they once enjoyed from Earl.”

laundering and tax evasion.

The president of his own construction company, McCann narrowly defeated popular Democratic state Sen. Deanna Demuzio in the Republican wave of 2010. He held that seat for eight years, stepping away from it only to run as a third-party candidate for governor in 2018.

McCann had established the “Conservative Party” that summer, leaving the GOP he believed wasn’t conservative enough under then-Republican Gov. Bruce Rauner. Two years earlier, Rauner had spent millions backing an opponent to McCann in 2016, but organized labor came through for McCann, who held onto his seat.

In 2018, organized labor again intervened on McCann’s behalf, seeking to siphon Republican votes away from Rauner, who was easily defeated anyway by Democrat JB Pritzker.

McCann ultimately received 4.2 percent of the November 2018 vote, or nearly 193,000 votes.

But throughout the two political battles—through the spring of 2020, according to federal prosecutors— McCann had allegedly been mismanaging some of the more than $5 million that had been donated to his various political accounts.

According to state records, McCann’s construction businesses saw their corporate statuses dissolved by the secretary of state’s office in late 2013 for failure to pay taxes and file required annual reports. The federal Internal Revenue Service also began looking into McCann’s businesses, hitting him with hundreds of thou-

Bullets strike vehicle, house; no injuries

well as six shell casings found on Oakland Ave. Authorities also recovered a Ruger 9mm handgun from the bush.

“It is alleged that Mr. Hughes demonstrated a complete disregard for public safety and the rule of the law and opened fire in a residential neighborhood, striking a house and an occupied vehicle,” Berlin said.

“This type of violent gun behavior that puts the public at risk will most certainly not be tolerated in DuPage County and will be met with the full force of the law. Thankfully, no one in the home nor the [was] injured or killed as a result of Mr. Hughes alleged violent actions.”

Hughes’s next court appearance is scheduled Tuesday, Dec. 26 for arraignment in front of Judge Brian Telander.

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Following an investigation, it is alleged that at approximately 11:30 p.m., Hughes was walking southbound on Oakland Avenue where he allegedly fired a handgun multiple times.

Several of the bullets reportedly struck an occupied vehicle and a nearby house.

After firing the weapon, Hughes allegedly fled the scene and threw an object into a bush. A short time later, officers with the Oak Brook Terrace police department took Hughes into custody without incident in a parking lot located in the 300 block of E. Roosevelt Rd. When processing the scene, authorities recovered multiple bullets from the outside walls of the home and the vehicle that were struck, as

See TRIAL, Page 9

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Man charged with firing weapon in residential neighborhood in Villa Park DuPage County State’s Attorney Robert Berlin and Villa Park Chief of Police Michael Rivas have announced that Judge Joshua Dieden denied the state’s motion to Jacorey Hughes detain pre-trial a Chicago man accused of firing a handgun in a residential area.

Jacorey Hughes, 22, was charged with three counts of aggravated discharge of a firearm, a Class 1 felony.

On Tuesday, Nov. 28 at approximately 11:33 p.m., the Villa Park police department responded to a call of shots fired on the 400 block of E. Kolberg Court, near the intersection of Kolberg and So. Oakland Ave. in

sands of dollars in tax liens.

Against the backdrop of business troubles, the feds allege that beginning in 2015, McCann “engaged in a scheme to convert more than $200,000 in contributions and donations made to his campaign committees to pay himself and make personal purchases,” according to a news release from the U.S. Attorney’s office at the time of his indictment.

McCann also allegedly concealed his fraud “from donors, the public, the Illinois State Board of Elections and law enforcement authorities,” according to the feds.

He allegedly used some of that money to pay his mortgage, personal debts, buy personal vehicles and even pay himself.

In addition to spending roughly $60,000 on a 2017 Ford Expedition and a 2018 Ford F-250 pickup truck—along with the fuel and insurance costs for the vehicles—McCann also allegedly purchased two recreational vehicles with campaign funds.

He sought to turn those RVs into a business opportunity, according to the feds, establishing an account with an RV rental business in Ohio to rent out the vehicles. He’d put that account under the name “Sam McCann.”

At that same company, McCann made another account as a potential renter under the name “William McCann”—his legal first name—and proceeded to “rent” the vehicles to himself, paid for by campaign funds.

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8 • Thursday, Dec. 7, 2023 - The Elmhurst Independent

The Elmhurst Independent

Viewpoint

Dec. 7, 2023 • 8

Slices of life

Parenting adults

Life isn’t easy. And the epitome of that, perhaps, might be parenting.

(OK, maybe the epitome is death, but let’s take a week away from that topic, shall we?)

With regard to parenting being difficult: stop the judgmental comments already. I know what you’re thinking. People who dare say anything negative about parenting don’t deserve to be parents.

I beg to differ.

Parenting is a gift. It is wonderful.

It is one of the very best things that has happened (so far) in my life. For sure.

How then, do I dare declare that parenting is filled with hard (very, extremely hard) work?

Because it is.

Most of the things in life that are worth anything of substance require effort and hard work. This most definitely includes parenting.

Small caveat here. Being a parent isn’t for everyone. It should’t be. If you aren’t called to be a parent— don’t feel the need, don’t feel the pull—that’s OK. It’s more than OK. Step away from the pack ’n play.

I wasn’t sure about the whole parenthood thing myself. Neither was my husband. But something nudged us to dip our toes in the water and soon thereafter our daughter was born.

We learned that parenthood was full of love, miracles, first smiles, midnight feedings, countless diaper changes and tireless tasks.

If one word existed that combined love, work and lack of sleep it might describe the early years of parenting.

As bleak as I might make it, it couldn’t have been all that bad because my husband and I went on to repeat the process three more times, for a total of four: one girl and three boys.

With four, in the tempest years, I can tell you life was busy. I didn’t get to relax at will. I didn’t get to relax much at all.

But it was all good. I was raising little people, whom I loved more than life itself. I changed crib sheets in the dark in the middle of the night because they were wet. I cut grapes in half. I sucked out the snot from their noses. I worried when they didn’t eat their vegetables. I read them bedtime stories and rocked

them when they By had a JILL bad PERTLER dream.

Columnist I messed up a couple of times on the whole tooth fairy thing, but no parent is perfect.

And then the magic happened.

They grew up.

In many ways this was bittersweet. Them growing up, because it was the end of an era.

But was also a beginning.

And beginnings can be fun.

And beautiful. And just another wonderful chapter in life.

The loss of their childhoods blossomed into the cusp of their own adulthoods.

And you want to know something no one ever tells you when you contemplate having children?

Adult children can be even more rewarding than regular children.

Adult children become your contemporaries. They share interests and history. When adult children want to spend time with you in many ways it is 100-times more valuable than 10 years prior, because as adults they now have the choice, and in choosing you they are showing their true heart. They are demonstrating the culmination of all those late-night feedings, middle of the night diaper changes, threehour long dance recitals and T-ball games.

Babies are beautiful. Kinders are wonderful. The loose tooth years are fabulous. Teens can be trying but also tremendous.

But your kids as adults? It is amazing. They are amazing.

I never thought about parenthood as raising adults, but it’s exactly what I did. And I’m so glad, because I may have birthed four babies, but now, I have four friends. The outcome is something I never anticipated or expected, but it’s better than I ever could have imagined.

Times a million. Maybe even more. For sure even more.

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

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Berlin supports early childcare and education as important tool for reducing crime

By Robert Berlin

charged with, among other things, creating a streamlined system to As DuPage County State’s meet the needs of our children and Attorney and a proud member of their families. the Executive Committee of Fight A recent editorial, “Governor’s Crime: Invest in Kids Illinois, I plan makes wise use of strongly support the wide-ranging consolidation for early childhood value of early childcare and education” promotes as a education as an important, yet promising solution the governor’s underutilized, tool for reducing executive order consolidating three crime. government agencies into a single I, along with 350 other new agency to reduce bureaucracy.

Illinois law enforcement I join Fight Crime members in leaders throughout the state, whole-heartedly supporting this are encouraged by research that executive order. In the governor’s unquestionably demonstrates the new executive order, one of the positive impact of high-quality first recommendations put forth early childhood programs that set by the Commission does just our young learners on a path to that by removing the red tape lifelong success and away from the and beginning the process of criminal justice system. streamlining key early childhood There are barriers however, programs under a single new including high costs, geographic department devoted exclusively to proximity, and stifling bureaucracy birth-to-five concerns. that often separate families from As the editorial noted, vital services. The unnecessary “concentration on these early challenges resulting from multiple learners is clearly wise, and state agencies overseeing aspects it should not be disrupted by of preschool, childcare, and birth- bureaucratic processes that can to-five services are top of that list. be hard to navigate or that get in Several years ago, I voiced each other’s way.” I would add my support for the Illinois that a more efficient administration Early Childhood Funding of early childcare and education Commission—a bipartisan panel programs will not only bolster appointed by Gov. JB Pritzker public safety but will also result

DUPAGE COUNTY STATE’S ATTORNEY

in savings in the long run as we reduce costs incurred by crime and violence in our neighborhoods.

The cost of crime in the United States is staggering. A comprehensive study conducted

by Vanderbilt University on the subject found that in 2017, more than 120 million crimes, 24 million of which were violent crimes, were committed in the United States amounting to a financial impact of $2.6 trillion.

This figure represents the quantifiable, direct cost of crime such as funding by local, state and federal agencies to support the criminal justice system as well as financial losses sustained by crime victims. While not quantifiable, indirect costs of crime such as physical and phycological harm, loss of investment in high-crime communities and increased social service needs in those communities is just as important.

The creation of a new state agency focused solely on birth-tofive services is an important step in developing the best possible system of support for Illinois families and communities while also benefitting all of Illinois through reduced crime and increased public safety.

The Elmhurst Independent - Thursday, Dec. 7, 2023 • 9

Illinois Supreme Court: FOID records exempt from public disclosure

County Board drive for Family Shelter Service donations deemed successful A Domestic Violence Awareness Month Donations Drive sponsored

by District 2 County Board members Paula Deacon Garcia, Liz Chaplin, and Yeena Yoo resulted in more than 550 items donated to Family Shelter Service of Metropolitan Family Services DuPage.

“This was a coordinated effort with the help of staff from Family Shelter Service and the County Health Department, but it is the many generous people who donated throughout DuPage that made this shelter needs drive such a success” stated Member Yoo (Elmhurst). Hundreds of items ranging from household cleaning supplies, toiletries, and baby goods, including two car seats and five baby strollers, were donated to the non-profit organization via donation drop boxes and an Amazon wish list.

“Thank you to District 2 Board members and the greater DuPage community for your generous donations,” said Alexandra Milkent, Family Shelter Service program supervisor.

Yoo also sought to provide funding to Family Shelter Service while the donations drive was pending. She worked with the county finance staff and with finance committee chair Chaplin who placed it on the Nov. 14 agenda for the finance committee meeting. After preliminary approval, the County Board voted unanimously to fund the sum of $50,000 for the organization, using federal American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) dollars on Tuesday, Nov. 28.

“Supporting domestic violence survivors is important to me, and aligns directly with ARPA guidelines,” emphasized Chaplin.

Committed to creating a community free of abuse, Family Shelter Service serves DuPage residents through emergency shelter, court advocacy, 24-hour domestic violence hotline, counseling, and prevention outreach. In 2023, it received more than 7,100 hotline calls and provided 7,643 nights of shelter to survivors. For more information, visit www. metrofamily.org/FSSofMFSD.

Individuals can obtain their own records through other means

CAPITOL NEWS ILLINOIS

The Illinois Supreme Court ruled Nov. 30 that people may obtain records about their own Firearm Owners Identification cards, but they may not use the state’s Freedom of Information Act to do so.

In a 7-0 ruling, the court said the Illinois State Police acted properly when it denied FOIA requests from individuals who sought copies of letters explaining why their FOID cards had been denied or revoked.

But the court also said those individuals could have obtained those records through other means.

“ISP does not dispute this point but simply maintains, as we have found, that FOIA is not the proper means for obtaining the requested information,” Justice Joy Cunningham wrote for the court.

The case revolved around a 2011 amendment to the Freedom of Information Act that exempts from public disclosure the names and information of people who have applied for or received FOID cards or concealed carry permits.

According to briefs filed with the court, state lawmakers passed that amendment after the Associated Press filed a blanket FOIA request seeking the names of all FOID card-

• Trial

(Continued from page 7) McCann also allegedly spent $50,000 in campaign funds on credit card payments related to a family vacation in Colorado and charges from Apple iTunes, Amazon, a skeet and trap club, Cabela’s, Scheels, Best Buy, a gun store and cash withdrawals.

Shortly after being indicted, McCann claimed he was unemployed and had very little money to his name, while facing tens of thousands of dollars in debt.

His bleak financial picture earned him a court-appointed attorney, though he’s now been through five such attorneys, including those he ditched on Monday morning.

But McCann told reporters he wasn’t nervous about representing himself, saying “God’s got this,” and insisting he’s innocent.

“It’s obvious to me that no one is going to take this seriously, especially an appointed—I guess you get what you pay for,” he said.

McCann’s campaign account was dissolved by the Illinois State Board of Elections in August after he didn’t file required paperwork for more than two years. Though his account has a little more than $32,000 in it, the letter notifying McCann of the account dissolution noted he owes the Board of Elections $9,250 in fines.

The campaign account for McCann’s Conservative Party of Illinois, meanwhile, has a balance of $15.66, though it hasn’t filed its required quarterly reports since January 2022.

holders in the state, along with the expiration dates of their cards.

The Nov. 30 ruling involved two unrelated cases from Madison County in which Sandra Hart and Kenneth Burgess Sr. sought copies of documents related to their FOID cards, including records explaining why their cards had been revoked.

Thomas Maag, an attorney who argued the cases at the Supreme Court, said in an interview Thursday that both individuals claimed they had lost the original documents and that they sought copies so they could appeal the revocations.

In both cases, ISP denied the requests, citing the exemption in the Freedom of Information Act. But in both cases, the Madison County Circuit Court sided with the applicants and ordered ISP to hand over the requested information.

In 2022, the 5th District Court of Appeals upheld those decisions, saying the FOIA exemption was nev-

er intended to prevent individuals from obtaining records pertaining to themselves.

Both the trial court and the appellate court pointed to the use of plural language in the 2011 amendment that prohibits the release of “names” and information of “people” who have applied for or received permits.

They argued the use of plural words indicated lawmakers did not intend to prevent people from accessing their own information.

But the Supreme Court rejected that analysis, saying the use of the plural words “does not, in itself, mean that a request for one’s own information” would be permissible under the 2011 amendment.

The court’s ruling noted that the individuals could have obtained their FOID card applications and revocation letters through the Firearms Services Bureau, which is the division of ISP that processes FOID cards.

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10 • Thursday, Dec. 7, 2023 - The Elmhurst Independent

Obituaries

James (Jim) Rubietta, 86 On October 28, 2023, James (Jim) Rubietta, 86, of Jefferson, WI passed away.

A York High graduate in ‘55, Jim grew up in the Elmhurst area.

The co-owner of Whispering Wings Game Farm in WI is survived by his wife of 67 years, Marie (Huff); two sons Richard and Thomas, 7 grandchildren and 3 great-grandchildren; sister Diane (Rubietta) Ruppert, her two adult children, 6 grandchildren, and a great-grandchild; and sister Beth (Selonke) Waters, her son Scott, and two grandchildren.

Past president of the Lincoln Park (IL) Gun Club and State Champion Skeet Shooter, Jim owned a successful business in Berkeley. When he retired, they moved to WI, joining statewide agricultural and sporting communities. Whispering Wings in Jefferson became a favorite spot for wildlife, diverse plantings and wetland preservation. His family and the world around him will remember his generosity and love for others, animals and the land.

A memorial will be held on December 10 at 11 am at Nitardy Funeral Home, 550 N. Newcomb St, Whitewater, WI, with visitation from 9-11 am. A reception follows at First United Methodist Church, 320 S. Main Street, Fort Atkinson, WI, from 12:30-2:00.

Mike Zangan, M.D., 83 Mike Zangan, MD, age 83, left our earth in peace on November 28, 2023.

He was born on August 12, 1940 in Tehran, Iran. He was the son of the late Boris Zangan and Mariam Zangan-Hashemzadeh.

Mike pursued his studies of medicine in Germany where he graduated with an M.D. degree from the Albert-Ludwigs-Universität of Freiburg/Breisgau.

After his residency in Obstetrics and Gynecology, he worked as a hospitalist in Germany.

He moved to the USA in 1975 and worked as a physician in the Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology of Cook County Hospital in Chicago and also was a clinical assistant professor at Chicago Medical School.

A long time Elmhurst resident, he opened Elmhurst Obstetrics & Gynecology in 1983, his solo practice with privileges as a staff physician at Elmhurst Hospital. He loved his patients and served his community diligently and with great devotion until his retirement in 2017. His passion was traveling the world and exploring the customs and cultures of over 100 countries.

Mike leaves behind his loving wife Giselle, his son Steven Zangan, M.D.,(Tracie Wilcox, M.D.), his loving grandsons Maximilian and Vincent, and his sisters Nina and Zina and brother Abe. A private celebration of life is planned by the family.

In lieu of flowers, the family would appreciate donations in Mike’s memory to St. Jude Children’s Hospital and the Shriners Children’s Hospital in Chicago.

Raymond J. Allen, 90 Raymond J. Allen, 90, passed away on November 27th at his home in Oak Brook, IL. Ray was born on April 29, 1933 in Oak Park, IL, to Bernice and Raymond Allen, Sr. He attended St. Giles School and Fenwick High School in Oak Park before enrolling in the University of Colorado, where he spent one year.

At CU, Ray met his future wife,

Sally Nielsen, and they were married in 1954. Soon after, Ray was drafted and spent two years in the U.S. Army at Ft. Riley, Kansas. After Ray fulfilled his military service, he and Sally moved back to Illinois where he completed his education at Roosevelt University. Upon graduation, Ray entered the emerging leasing business. After working for two companies, he started his own in Chicago and within a few years, added a Denver office.

Ray purchased a home in the Colorado mountains where his family enjoyed the summer months while he traveled back and forth. Having spent summers in the Rockies with his brother as a child, where their parents had built a cabin, Ray wanted his children to share his love for the mountains.

In Chicago, Ray served on the boards of several banks and eventually purchased Park National Bank, with a partner, where he served as President and Chairman of the Board.

Simultaneously, Ray was President of the Bank of Highland Park for several years, and a long-serving trustee of Roosevelt University. After his retirement from banking, Ray worked with local manufacturing firms including ECS Corporation where he became owner and Chairman.

Ray was a dedicated philanthropist, known as “Santa Claus” in the South Side neighborhoods of Chicago. He began fulfilling the holiday wishes of several children, getting to know their families, who in turn told others about Mr. Claus. The program grew until he was delivering Christmas food and gifts to 250 people, all on his own. Additionally, Ray was active in the Elmhurst community,

6 Hours of Confession When was the last time you received Reconciliation?

Was it recently? In the past year? A while ago?

You are invited to prepare your heart and soul for Christmas. The priests of the 15 parishes of Eastern DuPage County will be available to celebrate the Sacrament of Forgiveness of sin.

Saturday, December 16th 9am - 3pm There will be select times when the Sacrament will be offered in Spanish and Polish.

All Catholics are invited to receive God’s grace.

Please come to Mary Queen of Heaven 430 N. West Ave, Elmhurst, IL 630-279-5700

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where he and Sally raised their family. He served terms on the boards of both Elmhurst YMCA and Elmhurst Symphony, mentored art students at (then) Elmhurst College and was a major supporter of the Elmhurst Art Museum. Ray was one of the most prominent art collectors in the Chicago area. In addition to art, he loved symphony and opera. Beyond his cultural passions, Ray was a 60 year Bears season ticket holder who never missed a game, whether at Soldier Field or on tv. He was also an avid Cubs fan. His own physical talents were best displayed on the dance floor.

Ray loved dearly and was dearly loved by his wife, Sally; his children, Pamela (David) Hunter, Justin (Julia) Allen, Julie Allen and Peter (Bonnie) Allen; his grandchildren, Leslie (Than) Hedman, Nicholas Allen, Erica (Jon) Cody, Margaret Dubey, Alexis Chia, Olivia Allen and Christina (Mark) Hammervold, and his great grandchildren, Axel and Nora Hammervold, in addition to many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his brother, Jerry.

A visitation will be held on December 13, 2023, from 4 to 8 PM at Elmhurst Community Funeral Home – THE AHLGRIM CHAPEL, 567 S. Spring Road, Elmhurst, IL 60126. A Celebration of Life will take place on December 14, 2023, 11:30 AM at the Elmhurst Art Museum, 150 S. Cottage Hill Rd., Elmhurst, IL 60126.

In lieu of flowers, memorials can be made to the Elmhurst Art Museum, 150 S. Cottage Hill Ave., Elmhurst, IL 60126; Elmhurst Symphony, 149 W. Brush Hill Rd., Elmhurst, IL 60126 or to the Salvation Army, https://give.salvationarmyusa.org/.

For information, (630) 834-3515 or www.elmhurstfh.com.

Rexall (Bud) Prim, 86 Rexall (Bud) Prim, 86, of Elmhurst, Illinois, passed away on December 2, 2023.

Born October 17, 1937.

He was the beloved husband and best friend of Joan Prim for 63 years.

Loving father of Deborah (Pete) Vernon and Darlene (John) Coffey.

Proud grandfather of Laura Vernon.

He is preceded by parents, Truman and Opal Prim; brother, Kennard; and sister, Mary Lou Scott.

He was a member of Sheet Metal Workers Local 73 Union of Chicago.

He loved deer hunting and going to his Wisconsin property.

Rexall was a loving family man and will be missed by all who knew him. He attended Grace Bible Church for many years and served as Awana leader.

A visitation will be held on Tuesday, December 12, 2023 from 10 a.m. – 12 p.m. at Elmhurst Community Funeral Home – THE AHLGRIM CHAPEL, 567 S. Spring Rd. Elmhurst, Illinois, directly followed by a memorial service beginning at 12 p.m. at the funeral home.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Rexall’s name to the Alzheimer’s Association, www.alz.org.

Arrangements in care of Elmhurst

Community Funeral Home – THE AHLGRIM CHAPEL. For info, (630) 834-3515 or www.ElmhurstFH.com.

Sue R. Stuhlmann Sue R. Stuhlmann (nee Roberts), was born February 25, 1940, and passed away December 1, 2023.

She was the only child of Paul C. Roberts and Irene Saxton.

She was born at her parental home in South English, IA and spent the first 18 years of her life there. Sue attended English Valley High School in North English, IA, graduating in 1957 as class Valedictorian.

Sue’s father owned the local grocery/general store. She grew up learning the family business from an early age.

When her parents became severely ill, Sue postponed her college entrance to manage the store for a year. After this, she matriculated at Grinnell College, in Grinnell, IA, where she was awarded a scholarship and worked all four years at jobs on campus. She graduated in May 1962 with a BA, with a major in sociology and anthropology and a minor in mathematics.

In July 1962, Sue married her college sweetheart Ric (Eric) Stuhlmann (Grinnell, 1961) in her hometown Methodist church. Sue and Ric lived their first married years in Cicero, IL, where Sue taught junior high math.

She also taught in LaGrange, IL. Later, she did private math tutoring for 25 years while she was able to be a stayat-home mother to her sons Kevin and Jason.

After Cicero, Ric and Sue lived in Lombard, IL and Elmhurst, IL, where she lived for 47 years. When Kevin was in college and Jason in high school, Sue launched a new career as a volunteer fundraiser and staff member for an archaeological center in Cortez, CO. In this capacity, she drove a van for exploratory trips and staffed adult educational programs in the Southwest.

At age 60, Sue went back to school at the University of Arizona in American Indian Studies. And at 61, she hiked to the floor of the Grand Canyon, an accomplishment she was quite proud of. Sue painted, loved tending her flowers, and was a voracious reader. She loved to cook, traveled widely, and was a lover of Native American culture and art.

In addition to Illinois, Sue and Ric spent many happy months at their homes in Eagle River, WI and Tucson, AZ. Sue would say that the most important part of her life was her family and friends.

She is survived by her husband Ric and her sons Kevin (Lori) and Jason (Lori). A celebration of life will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the American Cancer Society, https://www.cancer. org/ or to The Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson’s Research, http:// www.michaeljfox.org/. Arrangement in care of Elmhurst Community Funeral Home – THE AHLGRIM CHAPEL, 567 S. Spring Rd., Elmhurst, IL 60126. Info: 630-834-3515 or www. elmhurstfh.com.

The Elmhurst Independent - Thursday, Dec. 7, 2023 • 11

DSCC, LVH, VPVH partner to help senior pet owners

DuPage Senior Citizens Council (DSCC) has partnered with Lombard Veterinary Hospital (LVH) to be the recipient of its “Giving with a Thankful Heart” Campaign. From Nov. 1 through Jan. 2024, Lombard Veterinary Hospital and Villa Park Veterinary Hospital (VPVH) are accepting donations of pet food to benefit DSCC’s Pet Food and Assistance Service.

DuPage Senior Citizens Council has been partners with Lombard Veterinary Hospital since 2017.

LVH is a family-owned business and has been helping pets in DuPage County for more than 60 years, acquiring the Villa Park Veterinary Hospital in 2021. The partnership between DuPage Senior Citizens Council and Lombard Veterinary Hospital has been advantageous in boosting the assistance provided to senior pet owners in DuPage County.

The “Giving With a Thankful Heart” Campaign is an annual pet food drive held by the Lombard

Veterinary Hospital since 2018.

Any donations for the drive can be dropped off at the hospital located at 1300 S. Main St. in Lombard, or at Villa Park Veterinary Hospital at 31 St. Charles Rd. in Villa Park.

Some items needed include dog and cat food (small bags preferred), treats, and cat litter. Donations will be given to DuPage Senior Citizens Council, then delivered to local seniors who need assistance providing for their companion pets.

“This drive is to assist the many

seniors that do not have the resources to buy pet food,” said DSCC executive director Marylin Krolak. “These seniors often wind up sharing their own food with their pets.”

By providing this assistance, DSCC and LVH can ensure senior pet owners are able to feed their pets while enjoying their own meals.

“We are so grateful to Lombard Veterinary Hospital for partnering with us,” Krolak said.

“Helping this great organization in any way has been a rewarding experience for our staff and clients for many years,” says LVH director of operations Greg Ludwig. “We are thrilled to have this become official and are excited for more events to come in the future. Finding ways to help our community is important to us. At the end of the day, we are just happy to help.”

To learn more about the organizations, visit DuPageSeniorCouncil.org or LombardVet.com.

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Advent Midweek Services: Wednesdays Noon & 6:30 p.m.

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12 • Thursday, Dec. 7, 2023 - The Elmhurst Independent

Community calendar

Picks of the Week Saturday, Dec. 9 - Spring Road Winterfest From 1-4 p.m. the Spring Road Business Association (SRBA) invites the public to the Spring Road Gazebo next to the Illinois Prairie Path for the first Christmas tree-lighting ceremony in Elmhurst.

Enjoy Christmas Carols, hot chocolate and cookies while we wait for Santa Claus to arrive on an Elmhurst fire engine. The Christmas Tree will be lit after Santa arrives. Bring your camera to get a photo with ol’ St. Nick in the Gazebo, then see Reindeer on Parade, as decorated reindeer will be on display in front of every business up and down Spring Road, sponsored by the local merchants. Enjoy an oldfashioned sleigh ride (or wagon ride, in the event there is no snow).

Info: visit springroad.com.

Saturday, Dec. 9 • At 6 p.m., Visitation Parish presents Christian music artist John Angotti performing “Peace on Earth,” a free family concert featuring Angotti’s band, Visitation’s choirs, and the choir from St. Thomas the Apostle Choir in Naperville. Visitation Church is located at 779 S. York Rd. Info: johnangotti.com or call 630330-1362.

• At 7 p.m., jazz comes to the Music@Bethel concert series with a performance by the Alyssa Allgood Quartet. Reception will follow. Bethel Church is located at 315 East St. Charles Rd. Tickets are $25 available on Eventbrite or at the door. Students are free. Parking is free; church is fully accessible. Info: (630) 2794040.

• From 7-9 p.m., the Elmhurst Artists’ Guild will hold an opening reception for its Winter Member’s Show at the Guild Gallery inside the Elmhurst Art Museum. The reception is open to the public. The show can be viewed during regular museum

hours through Saturday, Jan. 6. Info: elmhurstartistsguild.org.

Sunday, Dec. 10 • Beginning at 12:15 p.m. at Elmhurst Christian Reformed Church, 149 W. Brush Hill Rd., the SHE Single Mothers Support Group will meet for a holiday gather. There will be a complimentary Christmas lunch for all, free child care (ages infants to 12 years), Christmas music, fun, fellowship and support from other single moms.

All are invited to attend this monthly event. RSVP to elmhurstcrc.org/she.

• At 7 p.m., the Elmhurst University Symphonic Band and Wind Ensemble will perform its annual Holiday Concert in Hammerschmidt Chapel on the university campus. The concert will feature a variety of holiday music and conclude with an audience sing-along.

The concert is free and open to the public.

Monday, Dec. 11 At 7 p.m., GreenMan Theatre Troupe presents “Holiday and Win-

ter Stories,” a free event at the Elm- 12 noon to midnight. hurst Public Library at 125 S. ProsThe Trolley stops are: pect. Enjoy a seasonal assortment of 1. York and Park stories, songs and poems celebrating 2. York and Schiller Christmas, Hannukah and winter.

3. York and Third Free.

4. Second and Addison 5. Cottage Hill and Virginia Saturday, Dec. 16 6. Spring Road and Prairie Path From 1 – 4 p.m. the Elmhurst Art 7. York and Vallette Museum’s annual Family Day: Holiday Party kicks off this year with To post a community event or club hands-on art activities inspired by Pi- meeting, email the information to casso: Fifty Years Later, as well as hot Independent@rvpublishing.com and cocoa, cookies, and a visit from Santa. put “Community Calendar” in the Families are invited to visit the exhibi- Subject line. tion and make holiday cards inspired

by Picasso’s cubist techniques and Elmhurst History Museum colorful paintings. Info: elmhurstartThe museum’s latest exhibit museum.org or 630-834-0202. is Lost Chicagoland Department Stores. Admission to the Museum is Sunday, Dec. 17 always free, although some events • At 10 a.m., the Music Ministry carry a fee. of First Congregational UCC of Elmhurst, 235 S. Kenilworth Ave., led Elmhurst Art Museum by music minister Jim Molina, will The exhibition Picasso: Fifty present a Christmas Cantata, “The Years Later is now open, remaining Gift.” All are invited to experience through Sunday, Jan. 7, 2024. the story of the birth of Christ in The Elmhurst Artists’ Guild has song and word. Admission is free; announced its Winter Member’s an offering will be collected to help Show at the Guild Gallery inside the support the Music Ministry.

Elmhurst Art Museum. The show • At 3 p.m., Elmhurst Choral will be on display during regular muUnion (ECU) will present Handel’s seum hours from Saturday, Dec. 2 Messiah at Hammerschmidt Chapel through Saturday, Jan. 6 and is open on the campus of Elmhurst Univer- to the public. Info: elmhurstartistssity. Tickets are $25 for adults, $15 guild.org. for youth 12 and younger, can be In addition, there is a new exhibpurchased online at elmhurstchoral- it in the McCormick House entitled, union.org/tickets or at the door the “Seasons Creep Under a Shading day of the concert.

Tree.” Five artists came together to create works that take nature into Ride the Holly Trolley consideration from the vantage point Saturdays from Nov. 25-Dec. 30 of a McCormick House resident.

Free Holly Trolley Service will be Info: elmhurstartistsguild.org or elavailable on Saturdays for holiday mhurstartmuseum.org or 630-834shopping. Hours of service will be 0202.

Independent Elmhurst

Elmhurst’s Locally Owned and Operated Hometown Newspaper

GreenMan Theatre Troupe announces topic, deadlines for ‘8 to the Bar 2024’

GreenMan Theatre Troupe has announced that the “8 to the Bar 2024” Play Festival, its fourth-annual production of eight 10-minute plays, will boast the topic “Revenge Is Sweet – Or Is It?” “That writing topic provides an inspiration and gets the creative juices flowing,” said Becca Easley, member of GreenMan Theatre’s Artist and Play Reading committees. “Each play needs to focus on revenge – its contemplation, cancellation or execution; its resulting joy or regret; its effect on characters’ lives,” added Craig Gustafson, Project Coordinator and Play Reading Committee member.

The 10-minute play format can be a challenging one, Gustafson said. “A 10-minute play teaches playwrights how to get their point across within seven or eight pages and develops discipline,” he said.

For “8 to the Bar 2024,” up to 200 submissions will be accepted from playwrights nationwide. In past years, just 40 submissions were accepted, and only from Midwestern playwrights.

Each play submitted to GreenMan Theatre must be in English, limited to eight pages, feature no more than six actors and have a simple set and props. For a complete list of “Play Submission Guidelines,” go to greenmantheatre.org.

Playwrights may submit up to two plays. There is no reading fee for submissions. Submissions may be sent to gm10mp@comcast.net from Thursday, Feb. 1 through Friday, March 1, 2024. Selected plays will be announced on April 30, 2024.

First, second and third place cash prizes for selected plays will be determined by audience voting during the show’s run. Winners for “8 to the Bar/ ista 2023” were: first place, “Walpurgis Night,” second place, “Gary the Bold,” and third place, “One Dinner Three Ways.”

For more information, visit greenmantheatre.org.

• Grant

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For a free weekly eSubscription emailed to any Elmhurst resident or business, sign up at: rockvalleyenews.com vvv

For a free print subscription delivered to any Elmhurst residence or business, sign up at: rockvalleydigital.com Your Locally Owned and Operated Hometown Newspaper Published by Rock Valley Publishing |240 N. West Ave., Elmhurst, IL 60126 | Phone: 630.834.8244

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The Elmhurst Independent

(Continued from front page) tion space and virtual reality lab, as well as a new speech-language-hearing clinic, classrooms, offices and labs. It also will also house the Jans Military and Veterans Center, a resource center for student veterans and students actively serving in the military.

To maximize accessibility for users and visitors, universal design principles have been applied throughout the plans for the facility. The building also will be constructed with the goal of earning LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) certification, the world’s most widely used green building rating system.

Elmhurst University recently completed a comprehensive fundraising campaign to support several campus priorities, including construction of the health sciences building. The $30 million facility is scheduled to be completed by the spring of 2025.

The Elmhurst Independent - Thursday, Dec. 7, 2023 • 13

Legion offers 24/7 aluminum can recycling Initiative is fundraiser for THB Post #187

Under the direction of Eric Pulia, the Elmhurst American Legion Post THB #187 recently began an environmental fundraiser project that will be of interest to the community.

S&S Metals Recyclers II of Aurora dropped off a trailer on the side of the American Legion building (west side of the building, next to the storage shed). This trailer is for the collection of aluminum cans to be recycled. Strictly aluminum.

Every time the trailer is filled, the Legion will receive $250-$300 each time. All funds raised will benefit the American Legion “Boys and Girls State” programs for York high school students. Anything remaining will go towards the Legion’s other charity initiatives for veterans.

People are able to drop off empty aluminum cans 24 hours a day in the trailer. Remember, cans must be aluminum.

GreenMan Theatre Troupe brings ‘Holiday and Winter Stories’ event to library Searching for an old-fashioned way to get in the holiday spirit this December? Look no further than GreenMan Theatre Troupe’s “Holiday and Winter Stories,” a free event to be held at the Elmhurst Public Library on Monday, Dec. 11 at 7 p.m.

“We’re trying to evoke a laid-back feeling of this time of year and the holidays,” said Carolyn Thomas-Davidoff, event director. “If you need time to relax, de-stress and enjoy something a little bit more old-timey, then this is for you.”

Attendees will be treated to a seasonal assort-

ment of stories, songs and poems celebrating Christmas, Hannukah and winter. Performers for “Holiday and Winter Stories” are Cassy Beach, Marilyn Connolly, Patricia Cooley, Becca Easley, Debbie Proska, Steven Soria, Thomas-Davidoff and Larry Vietzky. Beach is also serving as music director.

Elmhurst Public Library is located at 125 S. Prospect Ave. Walk-ins for the event are welcome. Attendees can also register for an in-person space at https://tinyurl.com/35dczryv or to attend live via Zoom at https://tinyurl.com/py8um5w9.

Back by popular demand, Christian music artist John Angotti, his band, Visitation’s choirs, and Naperville’s St. Thomas the Apostle Choir will perform at a free family concert at Visitation Catholic Church, 779 S. York Rd., on Saturday, Dec. 9 at 6 p.m. “Peace on Earth” for Christmas is part of Angotti’s 2023 popular Music Mission tour.

Angotti, an accomplished composer and pianist is well known in the Christian music world and, is especially popular in the contemporary Catholic music market, according to bandsintown.com.

He will be joined by special guest Meredith Augustin.

Last year’s event at Visitation drew a packed house that enjoyed the award-winning Angotti’s performance leading into Christmas.

“John Angotti sharing his gift with individuals and families alike between the Thanksgiving and Christmas holidays is the perfect opportunity to begin Advent and remember the true meaning of the season,” said Tony Cuzzone, president of Visitation Parish Council.

Visit johnangotti.com or call 630-330-1362 for more information.

Visitation Parish hosts John Angotti in free Christmas Concert

SUBMITTED PHOTO Elmhurst Independent

Santa visits Buttons & Bows

Buttons & Bows preschoolers like this little one welcomed Santa Claus at this year’s holiday breakfast. While the breakfast with Santa is an annual event, it had to be cancelled for a few years due to COVID, in fact, this was the first time the event was held since then.

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14 • Thursday, Dec. 7, 2023 - The Elmhurst Independent 448086

Join us at our first

Winterfest on Spring Road!

Saturday, December 9th from 1:00-4:00PM

THANK YOU

for making us part of your Holiday tradition and all of your special occasions.

Happy Holidays

Enjoy a sleigh ride and see the reindeer on parade.

Then visit with Santa and meet Anna and Elsa from Frozen.

Don’t forget to bring your phones for pictures!

Be sure to indulge in some delicious cookies from Lezza and hot chocolate while listening to Christmas carols.

Let us handle all your holiday dessert needs

Holiday Fun

For your holiday table, call Lezza for all your desserts and order your favorites early!

Even though our Gingerbread House Decorating Parties at Lezza have been cancelled, you can still have a party of your own and decorate a fabulous Gingerbread House at home! We also have Holiday Cookie Decorating kits.

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Caroling provided by: Elmhurst Choral Union singers at 1:30pm Grace Bible Church Choir at 2:30PM Immaculate Conception Student Choir at 3:15pm The event will conclude with Tree Lighting around 4pm For more information go to: https://springroad.com/our-events/ PRESENTED BY

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The Elmhurst Independent - Thursday, Dec. 7, 2023 • 15

Season’s Greetings to you and your family!

Join us at Winterfest on Spring Road to Celebrate the Holidays.

Thank you for trusting us for 75 years!

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18 • Thursday, Dec. 7, 2023 - The Elmhurst Independent

The Elmhurst Independent

Sports

Dec. 7, 2023 • 18

York girls gymnastics team wins Hinsdale South Thanksgiving invitational Dukes register 135.3 score on way to victory

By Mike Miazga CORRESPONDENT

The York girls gymnastics team had a productive Thanksgiving holiday. The Dukes won the Hinsdale South Thanksgiving invitational with a score of 135.3. For comparison’s sake, York’s score at the season-ending Glenbard East regional last season was 125.125.

Also, the state’s eighth-place team from a year ago scored a 138.950.

“The team has improved on their skills overall,” York coach Ashley Samata said. “They had intensive training during the offseason and the team is throwing harder skills in their routines right off the bat.”

At Hinsdale South, York finished ahead of second-place Oswego (132.65) and also finished ahead of West Suburban Conference Silver Division entrants Glenbard West (131.25, third), Lyons Township (128.5, fifth) and Hinsdale Central (127.325, sixth).

York’s Angela Stangarone won the vault competition with a 9.50.

Hayley Schiltz was eighth at 8.90.

Stangarone also won the bars title with a score of 8.90 and Melania Veselovsky was right behind her in second place at 8.70. Schiltz took fourth at 8.55 and Daniella Chavez was fifth at 8.35.

On the balance beam, Schil-

tz took third with a score of 8.90, while Veselovsky was fifth at 8.45. Stangarone was second on floor with a score of 9.20, while Veselovsky tied for ninth at 8.45.

Stangarone took second in the allaround scoring at 34.350, while Schiltz was third at 34.050 and Veselovsky was fifth at 33.50. Chavez was ninth at 32.20.

The York freshman team also took fourth at the Hinsdale Central freshman invitational with a score of 110.0.

Veselovsky tied for 17th on vault with a score of 8.00. Abigial Pointon was 20th at 7.90. Veselovsky won the bars title with a score of 9.00. Pointon was 15th with a score of 6.40.

Veselovsky was sixth on beam with a score of 7.85, while Pointon tied for 17th at 7.30 Veselovsky took second on floor at 8.40, while Pointon was 25th at 6.50. returns all-arounders York Chavez (a senior), Schiltz (a junior) and Mia Carone (a junior) from last

“

They all have something great they contribute to the team overall. I was pleasantly surprised by the fact we won our first invite of the season. This is my second year as head coach and to start off the season with a ‘W’ means everything.”

– Ashley Samata, York coach

year’s team. Chavez in particular has progressed in the early going of the season. “Daniella is throwing much harder skills in competitions for the first time,” Samata explained. “My parting words with her at the conclusion of last season were. ‘It’s going to be your senior year and it’s time to go big or go home.’ I can tell she took those

words to heart because she is already stepping it up and doing what she needs to do. It’s going to be a very successful season for her.”

Samata pointed out Carone is working on a new skill “that I’ve been trying to get her to learn since last season,” she said. “Mia took initiative and wants to improve.

I am very proud of her for doing that.”

Veselovsky, a freshman, and Stangarone, a senior, are key newcomers to the team. “These girls all work together and support each other through the good and the bad, no matter what,” Samata said. Samata said she’s been impressed with the depth on the team. “These girls balance each other out,” she said. “They all have something great they contribute to the team overall. I was pleasantly surprised by the fact we won our first invite of the season. This is my second year as head coach and to start off the season with a ‘W’ means everything.”

SUBMITTED PHOTO Elmhurst Independent

The York girls gymnastics team recently won the Hinsdale South Thanksgiving invitational championship. Pictured on the podium, SUBMITTED PHOTO Elmhurst Independent from left: junior Mia Carone, freshman Melania Veselovsky, senior The York girls gymnastics team recorded a 135.3 score on its way to winning the Hinsdale South Daniella Chavez, junior Hayley Schiltz and senior Angela Stanga- Thanksgiving invitational title. Pictured from left: junior Mia Carone, freshman Melania Veselovsky, serone. nior Daniella Chavez, head coach Ashley Samata, junior Hayley Schiltz and senior Angela Stangarone.

SPORTS 19

sports sports

The Elmhurst Independent - Thursday, Dec. 7, 2023 • 19 The Elmhurst Independent - Thursday, July 16, 2020 • 19

IC Catholic Prep girls basketball team beats St. Francis on Hoosiers court

IC Catholic Prep graduate Knights 5-2 through first seven games; Geiger scores 50 points in three games Leslie headed to Le Moyne

By Mike Miazga

Girls Catholic Athletic Conference White Division play in less than 10 The IC Catholic Prep girls basket- days), it still had that conference feel ball team enjoyed a double dose of to it. Both teams went down there to cool on its recent trip to the famed win. Both teams had a fun trip in an “Hoosiers” basketball gym made fa- Iawesome bothwithteams feel like Iatmosphere, would be sobut bored Will play volleyball mous by the movie of the same name. out played to win.”it has been such a big it because I’m really Not did the Knights have a blast partSeven Knights players of my different life.” foronly Division II school playing in the historical building in scored the game.

“We’d go back Lesliein said she has plenty of By Mike Miazga Knightstown, Indiana, but they also memories and play down there again,”Prep’s Fisher excited to be able from IC Catholic CORRESPONDENT came away with a 61-57 non-confer- coach said. The Knights moved to 5-2 overNancy Kerrigan’s program. to play volleyball in Recent IC Catholic gradu- all“Iwith ence win over WheatonPrep St. Francis. theplaying win. there,” she said. loved ate “First Bella Leslie to head east of all, wanted the environment, the “I probably ICCP opened last week with a big enjoyed school volleycollege. It gives me for college. and the gym, it’s a spe- ball atmosphere 49-46 winthan on the against Chimore clubroad because I love Her landing spotICCP endedcoach up being cial place to play,” Todd my cagoteam Resurrection in its first-ever something to do. I and the coaching staff atFisher NCAA II LetheMoyne said.Division “If you know movie, was GCAC Division ResurveryWhite supportive ongame. and off the College former Knights walking where into thethe gym, you have that court. rectionItled 32-21 halftime anden41- feel like I would be made it aat really good volleyball andGoing soccerdown standout will vironment cool feeling. the locker 39 going into quarter.

ICCP to the be fourth in. Coach (Kerriso bored without continue her are volleyball at gan) rooms, which the samecareer ones from outscored Res 28-14 the second was great.

I haveinknown her the New awesome.

York school the Syracuse, movie, is very It’s as an for half.

“We clamped on defense a while.

When I down was little, I did it because it has aawesome libero. historical play to go play. all andthe came back to win,” little kids camps,Fisher and said. her “All of the schools was looking Everyone down there Icould not have daughter “That’s what kids got after been such a big wasitinwas. my The brother’s grade atbeen were on the East Coast,” Leslie atit IC.” more welcoming and friendly. on defense and played really well told the Independent week.

Everybody down therelast made all of“I us inLeslie the second We had some big part of my life.” said half. she will miss plenvisited Le Moyne and really liked tystops feel at home.” toward the end ofPrep. the game.

We about IC Catholic “I will – Bella Leslie SUBMITTED PHOTO Elmhurst Independent it. After It reminded playingme to ofa high 24-24school tie at miss werehow up byclose a point 10 secknitwith of aunder communiThe IC Catholic Prep girls basketball team defeated Wheaton St. Francis 61-57 in a non-conference halftime,itthe Knights 43-40 after because was a smallledschool, and tyonds to go and hit a couple big free it was,” she said. “I knew everygame played in Knightstown, Indiana at Hoosiers Gym, made famous by the movie of the same “Hoothree quarters before throws under five seconds to go.” been in a smaller school yououtscoring will knowthe a body at with the school.

It will be weird cancelled due to the pandemsiers” name. Allie Geiger led ICCP with 20 points. Mary Kate Hilgart added 11 points. The Knights moved Spartans 18-17than in the Resurrection had a chance to tie lot more faces if Ifourth wouldquarter. have going on campus and not knowing ic. “I will probably leave Aug. to 5-2 with the win.

“We won against school. a good St. thethe game but missed. the 10-11 because gone to a bigger TheFrancis cam- all faces.

I’ll missGrogan those hit close it’s a far drive,” team,” Fisher noted.pretty.

Allie Geiger led connections two free throws late to help put the pus there is really It sits on ly and came a great win,” bounds, while Narcisi had eight re- week. “We have played a bunch with the coaches and she said.

“Weaway had with Zoom call with 20 points.

Mary Knights over the top. came athe bigKnights hill and with the scenery around it teachers.

Fisher said.

It will be “We weird foraway the the team recently and they said bounds. Geiger finished with seven of games with not a lot of practice Hilgart had 11is points, while first withyear a good road victory against a theyThe isKate great.

Everything pretty close Knights droppedabout a 49- blocks. “We came out flat, but the time with a full squad,” Fisher said. or so.” should havealso an answer Maura Grogan had nine good team,” Fisher said.

Geiger our together.

They have verypoints. nice facil- very 35 season non-conference game7-10 to Byron.

Leslie said pandemic life hasn’t in the next days. kids turned it around in the second “I think this week of practice will “We hit volleyball a lot of freeprogram throws inhas the been had 18overly points,exciting, while Grogan finished ities.

The trailedabout 38-11three at halftime but half,” Fisher said. “We had way too be beneficial in implementing new ICCPtalked though her They scenarios fourthworkout quarter (9-for-13),” Fisher said. club with 10 points.

Analisa Raffaelli and and good facilities and a nice outscored the Tigers in we the many defensive miscues in that first things and going back and reviewvolleyball team has started what could happen28-11 like if “We hit big Ifree when we Hilgart each had eight Gro- start locker room. likedthrows how modern it practicing second Geiger had 12 points again.

“We points. have been the half. season and someone gets half. We also missed a lot of shots in ing our goals and priorities for each needed to. It was a fun game between practicing gan and Geiger pulled in 13 was.” and and finished with 50 in three two oreach three times a sick we have to points stop and go. the first half that contributed to the game. We have only the one game two teams.

Even played week,” rebounds. finished Leslie plans on though studyingwenursing against Rosary this week and hopegamesone lastofweek.

Raffaelliwhy hadthey nine halftime score.” sheGeiger said. “We are with goingthree to That’s the reasons a neutral site have in a non-conblocks, while Raffaelli again. had three atthem Le at Moyne.

“They a good be points, while Graziella The Knights played Rosary in fully we’ll have good practice time starting tournaments Be- are looking at moving theNarcisi seasonhad to ference program,” game (the she twosaid. will “As meetfarin fore steals. clappedbeen downdoing defensivenursing eight points.

Geiger hadplan nineis to re- GCAC White action earlier in the this week.” that“We I haven’t any- the spring.

Right now the as what kind of a nurse I want to thing because senior soccer season have a season, but we won’t know be, I’m not quite sure yet.” and the club volleyball season were until the next 7-10 days.”

Leslie played volleyball and girls cancelled. We were supposed to go But if all systems are a go, Lessoccer at IC Catholic Prep all four to a few club volleyball qualifiers lie can’t wait to take her skills as FOX PHOTO Elmhurst of physicality, theyLouisville. brought it. a libero Conference play thisIndependent week with Groenewold lauded the with recentthe ef- from the field. Senior Andrea Stob tianCHRIS years.

She was 5-3 a center-midfielder Trojans through inelSandburg Grand Rapidsand and to the next level caused a lot of turnovers.

I games against Bishop McNamara and forts of freshman Elisabeth Van Den had six points.

Pozdol-Niego had five on the Knights soccer team.

This summer, we have some tour- Dolphins. “I feel like being a libethink we had 25 turnovers.

We strugWheaton Academy.

“It should be an Berg, sophomore point guard Maassists, while Schilf had four steals first eight games; Leslie’s volleyball journey naments planned over the next few ro you have to be really quick and gled. We had a tough time breaking interesting week,”U12 Groenewold ria Pozdol-Niego and Ifreshman Mia and Anthony three assistsBucolo in the winning fires aeffort. pitch during a recent baseballsaid. started in the fifth grade, the first weekends.

They are little tournathat is typically what am good at.

Drye continues strong their press motion I Schilf.

“Elisabeth, freshman cenTimothy starts Chicagoland Chris- “We’ll find out where we are at.” game. year she could play the sport at IC ments with and all getting of the into locala clubs. have really goodour reaction time,” to score.” large and really local. she ter, said. is coming “MaGrade3-point School. She’s been play- Nothing shooting “I likealong,” divingshe onsaid. the floor Thethan Trojans andtrying closed and ria issaving becoming more ing club Miazga volleyball since seventh Other that,rebounded I have been balls.

It’s offensive-minda really good

By Mike outwork the week with a win over Illinois feeling ed. She’s looking to score a The little grade, most recently with the Chito out a lot and stay in shape. when you make a save.

CORRESPONDENT Math and Science Academy.

In that bit and she’s pushing the ball — all cago Elite group that practices out I’ve been running a lot, so I got into position fits my personality, too.

The youthful Timothy Christian game, Sami Drye had 25day.” points and You goodhave things.

AndtheMaria, whoone is also of Scores in Willow Springs and that.

I try and run every to be loudest on Player of the week sponsored by girls basketball team racked up two hit six 3-pointers. “Sami Drye has a freshman, has done a super job deMontini Highrecently.

School inThe Lombard.

Leslie said she is scheduled to the court. I have a loud personality. more wins Trojans been doing a really nice job shooting fensively pressuring the ball and she’s “I’mwinners really against excitedRidgewood to be ablein report to Le Moyne in the Aug. 12- You have to be pretty loud if you were from the outside,” Groenewold said. had quite a few steals every game.” to play volleyball in college,” she 15 timeframe, but noted preseason want to be a libero. I think I match a non-conference game of two former “She’s had five games where she’s hit the win 59-30 win against Ridgesaid.

“It gives me something to do. volleyball already have thatIndescription.”

Metro Suburban Conference entrants. four or five activities 3s now.” wood, Timothy led only 15-13 after “We pressured really well defensively The two wins last week put Timo- the first quarter, but used a 15-4 run Member and did a nice job limiting their scor- thy at 5-3 overall. “We’re very happy in the second quarter to go up 30-17 FDIC (Continued from page 18) ing,” Timothy Christian coach Jill with it,” Groenewold said. “They are at halftime. The Trojans followed that Groenewold said. youngrah-rah kids who workI’m hard. up and by outscoring 22-8 in They lost to West Chicago on huge person. a The littlegoal bit ble transparentRidgewood and communicate of Elmhurst Timothy also lost 66-30 in a every day is to get a little bit better. the third quarter. Drye had 19 points I think an own goal in the last five more of an individual players’ coach. with everybody.” non-conference game to Class 4A Defensively, we’re doing a nice job. on 7-for-14 shooting from the field, minutes. That was against the state I will pull kids to the side at practice As far as the future, Stopka wants Sandburg. “Sandburg beat us pretty We have to get smoother on offense. which included a 5-for-10 effort from champs in the sectional finals. That’s and games and teach them.”

York competing at a high level on good,” Groenewold said. “We are so The kids are holding each other ac- the 3-point line. Van Den Berg had 15 a hell of a season if you ask me.”

Stopka noted York has been doing a consistent basis. “The short-term young. We are not ready for that lev- countable, which is nice to see.” pointsis on perfectand 7-for-7 Stopka will teach Spanish at York. conditioning drills and said the plan goal to arestock buildshooting up the He taught Spanish and one math class as of earlier last week was to start team,” he said. “A large portion of at St. Pat’s. “My philosophy is I am summer camp pending District 205 last year’s team was seniors, espeproudly presents more of a players’ coach,” he said. approval. “I have probably been able cially the starting 11. We have to proudly presents “I have been a big Liverpool soccer to meet 60 to 70 percent of the play- make sure the now juniors are up to YORK HIGH SCHOOL PLAYER OF THE WEEK supporter ever since 2015 when Jur- ers so far,” he said. “If it does get ap- the speed of the varsity level and are YORK HIGH SCHOOL PLAYER OF THE WEEK By Mike Miazga with 19 points, while Andrew Hill addpoints per game, while shooting .444 gen Klopp came over and he’s known proved that would be the start of our ready to contribute. We want to keep YORK GIRLS GYMNASTICS TEAM CORRESPONDENT ed 17 points. frompipeline the field.

Gallagher nine as a players’ coach. He’s kind of my contact days with four days a week that going with the has younger GIGI BARR The ICidol.

Catholic boys basketscored a 61-55 3-pointers and was We shooting from coaching I wantPrep to related to the for ICCP three then weeks straight.

Andvictory even groups of players. want.782 to make The York girls gymnastics team recently won ball team followed up a strong show- though over larger-classification in sure the free-throw (43-for-55).

He also players and form bonds with them. the IHSA waivedJohnsburg the blackYORK GIRLS VOLLEYBALL we are notline only competitive, but ing at the Coal City Thanksgiving tournon-conference action.

Hill hit for 26 has 16 assists and 11 steals.

Hill was I am more light-hearted and smil- out dates before the school year, we that we are competing for regionthe Hinsdale South Thanksgiving invitational nament bytorecording pairjoke of recent points take and pulled in seven rebounds. averaging 16.2 and points while shootBarr was the recipient of the 2019-2020 York Val Cothern ing.

I like have funaand with won’t advantage of that.

I’m als, sectionals supersectionals. title. Angela Stangarone won the vault with a wins.

TheThe Knights Chicago pretty Gallagher 16plans points. .577forfrom the field (41-for-71). the kids. goal isopened understanding surefinished familieswith have toThe do Iting starts me with this junior class junior female athlete of the year award. Barr went over the Catholic League Division play things two wins moved the starts.

KnightsI’m to the 5-1 that Hill is wascoming shootingin.a robust .708them from where each playerWhite can be successful before school We want 9.50 score and also won the bars individual title 1,000-career kill threshold last fall for the Dukes girls volleywith a 47-44 win over old Suburban overall and 1-0 in CCL White action.

2-point range (34-for-48).

Hill also has and the provide the best way possible new guy and I’m not going to say ready to go and setting the standard with an and 8.90still score.

Catholic friendthey Marmion games, to conveyConference the knowledge need youThrough can’t gosixwith yourGallagher family. was Go for these other classes that come in ball team has a season to add to that total.

See BASKETBALL, Page 20 Academy.

Jake Gallagher led ICCP leading the team in scoring at 19.9 at the position they play. I am not big do it and enjoy it. This is a crazy and so they can also contribute right off CORRESPONDENT

“

Timothy Christian girls basketball team downs Ridgewood and IMSA U12 baseball action

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IC Catholic Prep boys basketball team now 5-1 Hill hits for 26 points in win against Johnsburg

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20 • Thursday, Dec. 7, 2023 - The Elmhurst Independent

York girls cross country runners compete at Nike national meet

By Mike Miazga

more Sophia Galiano-Sanchez took 154th with a time of 19:59.9 and SophMembers of the York girls cross omore Gigi Hill was 162nd with a time country team, competing as the Kroy of 20:08.2. A total of 204 runners comclub, finished 12th at the recent Nike peted in the meet.

Cross Nationals held at Glendoveer Golf Course in Portland, Oregon. Kroy York’s Giuliani honored finished with 314 points, finishing 32 York girls water polo coach Mark points out of the top 10.

Giuliani recently received the 2023 Senior Michaela Quinn finished National Federation of State High 66th overall with a time of 18:55.1. Schools girls water polo coach of the Senior Maggie Owens was 96th with year award. The Illinois High School a time of 19:12.6. Senior Kather- Association selects a coach from each ine Klimek was 108th with a time of sport and Giuliani is the 2023 coach of 19:17.0. Senior Anna McGrail took the year recipient in girls water polo.

115th with a time of 19:21.1. SophoCORRESPONDENT

Elmhurst

Independent

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York football players named to all-state teams Several York football players were named to various all-state teams recently. From the Illinois High School Football Coaches Association, York senior linebacker Cole Ostendorf was named to the Class 8A all-state team, while senior wide receiver Luke Mailander earned Class 8A all-state honorable mention accolades. The Dukes also had seven players named to the IHSFCA academic all-state team, including senior offensive linemen Colin Cushing and Gavin Honken, senior linebacker Joseph Maucieri,

junior defensive lineman Joseph Reiff, senior lineman Jack Trautmann, senior quarterback Sean Winton and Ostendorf.

The Dukes also were represented on the 88th Champaign News-Gazette all-state football team, long regarded as the gold standard of media high school football award programs in the state. Senior running back Jake Melion was a News-Gazette first-team allstate pick after rushing for 1,785 yards (school record) and 18 touchdowns.

Melion also was named player of the year in the West Suburban Conference Silver Division. Reiff also earned all-state first-team honors. He finished with 60 tackles, 11 sacks, 16 hurries and three forced fumbles. Mailander earned News-Gazette all-state special-mention accolades.

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ICCP football players earn all-state honors IC Catholic Prep senior KJ Parker was named to the Champaign News-Gazette all-state first team for football, while senior tight end Eric Karner was named to the all-state special-mention team.

Senior running back/defensive back Joey Gliatta was named to the Illinois High School Football Coaches Association Class 4A allstate first team. Senior quarterback Dennis Mandala was named to the Class 4A all-state honorable-mention team.

Senior linebacker-wide receiver JP Schmidt was named to the IHSFCA Class 4A academic all-state team, as was sophomore linebacker-running back Foley Calcagno.

(Continued from page 19) 39 rebounds through six games. Aidan er Rice and will head to Melrose Park Johnson was averaging 9.0 points, tonight to square off with Walther while shooting .560 from the field. He Christian in a non-conference game also has 13 assists and five steals. Dan- before hosting crosstown neighbor ny Fromelt was averaging 4.7 points a Timothy Christian Saturday in a 1 p.m. game and had 24 rebounds through six matinee. ICCP then has contests with games.

Mt. Carmel, Providence Catholic and The Knights have a full schedule York prior to Christmas tournament this week. Earlier, ICCP hosted Broth- action.

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The Elmhurst Independent - Thursday, Dec. 7, 2023 • 21

Hometown Holiday Gift Guide

See inside for the benefits of shopping local during the holiday season A publication of Rock Valley Publishing, LLC

22 • Thursday, Dec. 7, 2023 - The Elmhurst Independent

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24 • Thursday, Dec. 7, 2023 - The Elmhurst Independent

The benefits of shopping local during the holiday season Millions of people enjoy shopping for gifts and loved ones each holiday season. The spirit of giving is alive and well each December, and that can extend to giving back to one’s own community.

In addition to supporting local charities when making donations during the holiday season, shoppers can patronize small local businesses over big box retailers and national chains. The decision to do so can benefit communities in myriad ways.

• Small businesses inspire young entrepreneurs. The United States Department of Commerce reports that nearly half of all small business owners in the U.S. in 2018 were 54 or younger. Six percent of those owners were 34 and under. Young entrepreneurs at the helm of thriving local businesses provide inspiration to the next generation of innovators.

• Thriving small business owners can send a positive message to traditionally underrepresented groups.

The National Women’s Business Council Annual Report for 2022 indicated women-owned employer firms increased by nearly 17 percent between 2012 and 2019. Similarly, the U.S. Census Bureau’s 2021 Annual Business Survey found that there were more Hispanic-owned and minority-owned businesses in various sectors than a decade earlier.

The success of women- and minority-owned businesses sends a positive message to young entrepreneurs and locals who are part of groups that have traditionally been underrepresented in business. That can help to create a more diverse and inclusive

Main Street, the success of which depends heavily on locals’ willingness to patronize locally-owned businesses.

• Shopping local supports many small business owners. Family meals and social gatherings with friends and coworkers are a big part of the

holiday season, and it’s not uncommon to break bread and share a few drinks during a night on the town.

Choosing to gather at a locally owned restaurant or tavern instead of a chain restaurant can have a ripple effect on an assortment of local businesses.

Local restaurants often source their

ingredients from local farms. A family meal at such a restaurant benefits both the restaurant owner and the hardworking local suppliers of the food that ends up on the plate. Local restaurants also are more likely to list locally produced wines and craft beers on their menus than national

chains. That adds to the ripple effect of celebrating the holidays at a locally owned restaurant.

A thriving small business sector is vital to a strong local economy.

Shoppers can keep that in mind and patronize local businesses during the holiday season.

METRO CREATIVE PHOTO 2023 Gift Guide

Holiday shoppers can patronize small local businesses over big box retailers and national chains, which can benefit communities in a myriad of ways.

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Elmhurst University

Symphonic Band &

Wind Ensemble

Holiday Concert Sunday, December 10 7:00PM

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Hammerschmidt Chapel

26 • Thursday, Dec. 7, 2023 - The Elmhurst Independent

Sports experiences make great gifts this holiday season

Musicianship New Classes Beginning Soon Musicianship for Children offers a variety of musical experiences for young children. Music is first presented through songs, movement and improvisation. As eartraining is established, music reading is introduced.

Glockenspiel, xylophone, and various unpitched instruments are used, as well as children’s literature and basic dance techniques. In the Elmhurst University program, students who start in the Musicianship series continue into the Piano Academy.

The thrill of sports has inspired billions of loyal fans and athletes across the globe.

Professional, collegiate, scholastic, and even recreational sports entertain people all year long.

That popularity is something shoppers can keep in mind as they look for the perfect gift for the family sports fan this holiday season.

Many adults undoubtedly recall receiving sports equipment as a holiday gift when they were children. Whether it’s a baseball mitt or a field hockey stick or a new ball, these gifts tend to light up kids’ eyes come Christmas morning.

Adult sports fans may not need such equipment, but they might be just as excited to receive these unique sports experiences this holiday season.

• Tickets: For diehard sports fans, nothing is better than going to the big game.

Perhaps in acknowledgment of the growing popularity of following a favorite team on the road, many professional sports leagues now release team schedules months in advance of the first game of the season.

Shoppers can peruse schedules and circle a must-see home game or lay the foundation for a memorable trip by giving tickets to a road game.

Please note: To ensure that class size and age/ experience requirements are met, the consent of the instructor, is required for all Musicianship and Piano Academy classes.

Completion of the registration form does not guarantee placement.

!

December 19, 20 & Jan. 6 thru May 4 $288 tuition – 16 weeks

https://tinyurl.com/young-music

Community Music (630) 617-3330

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Contact us regarding days and times.

• Stadium tour: Stadium tours are another great experience the family sports fan will undoubtedly appreciate. Many professional sports teams now welcome fans to tour their stadiums both in-season and during the offseason. These tours offer a behindthe-scenes look at stadiums, arenas and ballparks. Teams may even host tours on game days, making this a great stocking stuffer to pair with tickets to a game.

• Fan fest: Fan fest tickets make an ideal gift for individuals who can be accurately described as “diehards” for their favorite teams. These family-friendly gatherings tend to happen in the weeks leading up to the start of a new season.

A handful of current and former players typically attend fan fests, which are hosted by the team and typically include activities for adults and children alike.

• Lessons: Holiday shoppers may have a sports fan on their list who still enjoys lacing up their cleats. For example, pro golf fans may still enjoy hitting the links themselves. In such instances, lessons from a nearby golf pro can be just the thing to make sports fans smile this holiday season.

Sports experiences make an ideal gift for individuals whose passion for a favorite team is a big part of their life.

Enjoy the Holidays with Lexington Square!

Open House Celebration Tuesday, December 12

12 – 2PM

Join us for a festive holiday event featuring sweet treats,

hot chocolate and music while socializing with friends and touring our beautifully decorated community!

Explore a new lifestyle - a true forever home!

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(630) 629-2900 | LexingtonSquareLombard.com

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FOR MORE INFORMATION

The Elmhurst Independent - Thursday, Dec. 7, 2023 • 27

Gifts for sports lovers Adult sports fans may not need such equipment, but they might be just as excited to receive unique sports experiences this holiday season.

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METRO CREATIVE PHOTO 2023 Gift Guide

28 • Thursday, Dec. 7, 2023 - The Elmhurst Independent

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